Traveling to Belgium? This one day atypical itinerary will give you a quick rundown on things to do in Belgium. I will also share ideas of what you can explore during your visit. Just curious, ever heard an eccentric story while traveling? Stay tuned, this blog post will give you all of the deets.
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
Fun Facts About Brussels, Belgium
The Belgium Flag has the following colors: Black, yellow, and red. Belgium’s official languages are the following: Dutch, French, and German; English is spoken as well. Brussels is the capital of Belgium, and Belgium’s currency is the Euro. The population in Belgium is nearly 12 million, and Belgium’s time zone is on Central European Summer Time (at the time of this post).
Traveling to Belgium
I decided to take a bus ride from Amsterdam to Belgium although I normally like to travel to other European cities by train if I can. For the amount of time I had, and the budget I was working with, traveling by bus was the best option. In order to take the exact tour I took, you can book it directly here.
If you decide to take this tour, make sure to give yourself time to get to the bus departure station, my sister and I made it just in the nick of time. It takes just short of 2 ½ hours to get to Brussels from Amsterdam. It’s a nice scenic bus ride with a well-informed guide.
Exploring Brussels
The first stop on the tour was the Atomium which is a landmark in Brussels. The Atomium apparently was originally built for the Brussel’s World Fair (more information can be found here). There is also a museum inside, but I did not get to visit.
AtomiumQuick picture of me standing in front of the Atomium
Some notable mentions I quickly encountered were the Parc de Laeken (stunning park to take a walk), The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart, King Baudouin and Boudewijn statue, St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (a beautiful cathedral which began in the 13th century), European Quarter (if you’re a history buff this is perfect for you), Koninklijk Paleis te Brussel (the official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium), and Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon which is a beautiful Gothic church founded in the 15thcentury.
The National Basilica of the Sacred HeartRoyal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis te Brussel)King Baudouin and Boudewijn statue
After looking at some of the monuments and landmarks, we were finally able to start exploring again on foot. Ever saw the movie Taken? Well, my tour guide made sure to put the fear into everyone on the trip about the possibilities of what could happen if you venture out too far. The morbid story included a tourist who apparently went to the bathroom and disappeared never to be seen again.
Taken Trailer
Morning
As if that wasn’t scary enough, a few scams going on in Brussels were also mentioned. One of the scams mentioned was a person (usually a woman) pretending to be homeless and when you give this individual money, a group of people then surround you also begging for money while simultaneously robbing you. This goes without saying, keep it in mind (whenever and wherever you travel) to always be aware of your surroundings, to exercise caution, and common sense. Despite the unnerving story I had an amazing time in Brussels.
The absolutely stunning Grand-Place of Brussels is where we began exploring again. The Grand-Place is the cities central square and inside you’ll find shops, restaurants, bars, City Hall, Guild Houses (town hall etc.), and Maison du Roi (The King’s House). You could easily spend a good amount of time here visiting the museum, taking pictures, and shopping.
The Grand-PlaceThe Grand-Place
Next up, the Mannekin Pis which is a famous fountain sculpture of a boy well you guessed it, taking a piss. My tour guide said the sculpture is said to represent the people from Belgium’s sense of humor. Visit, and let me know what you think lol. The original Mannekin Pis statue is in the Brussels City Museum. I also took a picture with Mannekin Pis’ “girlfriend”.
Mannekin Pis’ “Girlfriend”Mannekin Pis
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Afternoon
After exploring on foot, next up was a quick chocolate presentation at Planete Chocolat. This was an awesome demonstration where you are able to learn about and taste chocolates that were also sold on the premises.
Chocolates at Planete ChocolatPlanete Chocolat
Belgium is known for their chocolates, so I shopped at both Leonidas, and Godiva. I ultimately ended up purchasing chocolates, and butterscotch cookies from Leonidas, Godiva, and a small mom and pop shop (I can’t remember the name sadly :(). Leonidas and Godiva are typically tourist locations, so patronize a small owned shop too if you can. I enjoyed everything I purchased from all locations however.
GodivaLeonidas
You can’t go to Belgium without trying Belgian waffles. I decided to purchase waffles at Vitalgaufre. The waffle was delicious, but could’ve been hotter. Next up was shopping at a comic book store Moule à Gaufres, second hand bookstores (I visited a few, here are some you can too Tulibris, and Sterling Books), and 72 Records for old vinyl’s. Next was shopping at my favorite store overseas Primark! I mention my love for Primark and explain why in my Amsterdam blog post.
Fresh Belgian WaffleBooks at the BookstoreOld vinyls at 72 Records
After shopping around for a while buying souvenirs and other miscellaneous items, my sister and I refueled with lunch at The Blue Restaurant. I wasn’t blown away by the food, but it was enough to hold us over for the long bus ride back. Although this trip scratched the surface of Belgium, I know for certain that I’d like to return for a longer amount of time. Brussels is such a charming city, with so much history and culture.
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Final Thoughts
Well, that concludes my Brussels itinerary. Thank you so much for reading! Would you travel to Brussels? Learn anything new, or have any feedback? Was this itinerary helpful? Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. Looking for the perfect travel gift for your loved one? Sign up for my freebie of travel gift ideas.
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As promised I’m back with my Amsterdam travel itinerary. Amsterdam is the capital city in the Netherlands. This trip took place pre-Covid and during Covid. At the time I left for Amsterdam, the news and details about Covid were still developing.
I actually booked this vacation the year prior and I wasn’t able to get a refund for my trip. In addition, around the time of my departure international travel was still allowed. Please exercise caution, wash your hands, wear your mask, and practice social distancing!
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.
Amsterdam Facts
The official language spoken in Amsterdam is Dutch however English is spoken as well. The time in Amsterdam is 6 hours ahead of New York. The official currency in Amsterdam is the Euro. I did change some of my currency while in the airport but the exchange rate is high. It’s probably best to utilize an ATM while in Amsterdam or exchange money from your bank.
Day 1
Highlights
Brasserie De Serre, Rainbow Path, Moco Museum, and Kama Sutra Restaurant. *Honorable mention 420 Café and The Bulldog
Morning
My first day in Amsterdam started off normally how it would during any vacation; I was excited and ready to explore. Tip: Amsterdam during winter season is considered off-peak, so I managed to secure an awesome travel deal. Keep in mind winter in Amsterdam is freezing so plan to dress warm. Thankfully there was no snow throughout the duration of my trip.
I’ve mentioned in my other blog posts while in London and Paris on how I always (for the most part) take the public transit system in the country I’m visiting. Amsterdam was no exception; the tram, metro, and bus system were very easy to figure out. More info here. After checking in at our hotel my sister and I had a late breakfast at Brasserie De Serre. The food was delicious and within walking distance to the hotel.
Amsterdam Breakfast at Brasserie De SerreAmsterdam Tram
Afternoon
Following breakfast, the first stop was the Rainbow Path. My sister wanted to find the Rainbow Bridge (which FYI can be seen during the Amsterdam Light Festival). We came across the rainbow path instead in Sloterdijk. The significance of the rainbow path is to signify and promote acceptance of the LGBT community. It’s such a great attraction to see in a bustling hub. The bridge is beautiful, I’d recommend going.
Rainbow Path in Sloterdijk
Now it was time to explore the city. The first stop on our list was the Moco Museum. I mentioned before how much I enjoyed the conversation this museum sparked regarding social media. It’s an awesome museum to check out in Amsterdam.
Moco MuseumMoco Museum Installation
After exploring on foot, next up was dinner. I stumbled across Kama Sutra restaurant and the menu drew me in. Kama Sutra serves Indian cuisine, and it DID NOT disappoint. It was so good! The delicious soup, naan bread, tandoori chicken, and vegetable entrees were amazing. I would highly recommend visiting this restaurant.
Dinner at Kama Sutra Restaurant
*Honorable mention
I would be doing a disservice if I didn’t mention any coffeshops/cafes in Amsterdam. If you’re into this kind of thing, I learned from my boat tour guide (I’ll get to this later), that The Bulldog is the oldest and most famous coffeeshop. The locals prefer 420 Café which is why I mentioned it.
I also learned that marijuana (while legal) is actually not typically accepted but more so tolerated in this country. Please be responsible in your choices and practice caution in whatever you decide. I am not recommending anything or assuming any responsibility.
Day 2
Highlights
Canal Tour, Rijksmuseum Café, Amsterdam Pancakes, Anne Frank House, Amsterdam Cheese Museum, and Sahan Restaurant
Morning
Despite the wintry weather, I planned on taking a canal tour and I did just that. It’s a great way to learn interesting facts and history about the country. Amsterdam is surrounded by and built on water, so a canal tour is the best way to explore the city.
I booked my boat tour through Airbnb’s experiences section, but you can also find the same exact tour on Viator. There’s so many to choose from, so go with one that best suits your interests. The boat tours typically serve refreshments (e.g.; alcohol, soft drinks, cheese, Dutch snacks and candies etc.). I highly recommend it.
Canal Tour in Amsterdam
Following this lovely experience, my sister and I had a light snack at the famous RijksmuseumCafé. My sister and I noshed on carrot cake, an almond muffin (extremely delicious), and tea. I loved the feel of the café in the museum.
Afternoon
After the quick snack, my sister and I had time before our scheduled appointment to see the Anne Frank house. We decided to try Amsterdam Pancakes which is within walking distance to the Anne Frank house. I tried savory style Dutch pancakes for the first time. It’s an acquired taste, but I’d try it again.
Dutch Pancakes
We booked a tour to observe the Anne Frank House (if you’re planning on visiting make sure to book ahead of time as spots fill up quickly). In my opinion this is a must see.
I learned about Anne Frank prior to visiting and vaguely knew her story. It was a humbling experience to see how she lived before and during the war, as well as how much she accomplished while alive. Being able to experience the house, and imagine the fear she must’ve felt was indescribable. It’s amazing her story continues to live on to remind us of a difficult and sad time period. I truly learned a great deal. *FYI pictures are not allowed inside the Anne Frank House.
The Amsterdam Cheese Museum is also within walking distance to the Anne Frank House so my sister and I took a quick trip there. You’re allowed to try the different cheeses within the museum. We got there as they were getting ready to close for the evening, so we didn’t get to stay too long. I’d recommend visiting if you’re a big fan of cheese.
Amsterdam Cheese MuseumCheese in the museum
Evening
The day was spent trying different foods, so by dinner time I wanted something light. I decided to try Sahan restaurant which is Turkish cuisine. I enjoyed the food at this restaurant and would definitely go again.
Day 3
Brussels, Belgium (Day not spent in Amsterdam)
I wrote a separate blog post on this visit here. The bus tour I took to Brussels from Amsterdam can be found here. By this point in the trip, the news began to get serious around Covid. Countries began closing their borders and shops began to follow suit. Friends and family back in the U.S. began to get concerned and contacted myself and my sister wondering how we were going to come back home. My sister and I contacted the airline we traveled with and due to extreme holding times, we couldn’t reach anyone.
I contacted the U.S. Embassy in Amsterdam, and was finally able to speak to someone. The individual I spoke with told me that my sister and I should be able to return back home after our trip, as long as we weren’t exhibiting symptoms but we’d have to undergo additional screening by the CDC.
I felt a little better once I heard this and in the meantime, took additional steps to boost my immune system. I usually carry immune boosting items with me when I travel. A few of my favorites are tea, and honey to fight off colds. I also carry activated charcoal in case I become nauseous or have an upset stomach.
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Day 4
Highlights
Albert Cuyp Market, the Original Stroopwafel, Hash & Hemp Museum, Red Light Secrets Museum, Red Light District, Primark, and Sky Lounge Amsterdam
Saturday was jam packed with activities. At this point, my sister and I were racing against the clock as many shops, restaurants, tourist attractions, and museums began to close. Rijksmuseum and the Heineken Museum were a few. Unfortunately, I did not get to go inside the Rijksmuseum to explore aside from the café. When I revisit Amsterdam, I will make sure to go.
Morning
First on the list was the Albert Cuyp Market in the De Pijp neighborhood. I loved this market! There were many choices of fresh produce, amazing street food, makeup, as well as clothing and shoes. You will find great deals here. I came across the Original Stroopwafel stand and had a freshly baked and warm Stroopwafel with caramel filling oozing out. This was such a treat, the ones given on the plane do NOT come close to the deliciousness of a fresh one.
Albert Cuyp MarketOriginal Stroopwafel Amsterdam
The Hash & Hemp Museum was next on the list. As one of the oldest museums centered on Cannabis its definitely eye-opening. You’ll learn the history and science of Cannabis, the infamy behind it, as well as the medicinal uses. Whatever your views on Cannabis, I think you’ll learn something at this museum. Go in with an open-mind.
Hash & Hemp MusuemCannabis “Monopoly”
Afternoon
At this point I’m continuing on with my interesting choices in museums lol. The Red Light Secrets Museum was still open, and this is honestly a must see. It’s located right in the Red Light District. The museum itself is fascinating and located within a brothel still in its original state.
Red Light Secrets Museum
You’ll learn all about prostitution, why the women decide to choose this life, and how much the women make. The museum even lets you confess some of your secrets anonymously. You’ll see some crazy confessions on the wall; would you be brave enough to do this? Let me know in the comments lol.
It was beginning to get late once we finished at the Red Light District Museum, and the Red Light District itself began to liven up. The district began to get packed, and you’ll start to see the sex workers take up their posts in the window displays. I didn’t want to stay in this area as all sorts of characters come out so I quickly made my exit. By the way, photos are not allowed in the Red Light District; by doing so you risk being arrested or fined. Not to mention its just in poor taste.
No trip of mine would be incomplete without shopping. I fell in love with Primark during my visit in London for their great deals on clothes, shoes, and accessories so I was excited to see locations in Amsterdam. Primark is both fashionable, and affordable. I love Primark so much; I also visited another location while in Belgium.
Evening
After a long day of exploring, I couldn’t wait to go to the very chic Sky Lounge. The Sky Lounge is a roof-top bar and lounge and has such beautiful views of the city. The vibe is reminiscent of a seen and be seen restaurant in NYC. Due to the new restrictions in place, the restaurant could only serve 100 patrons at a time so there was a longer than usual wait. In my opinion the ambiance was well worth it.
Sky Lounge in AmsterdamAt the Sky Lounge
Day 5 (Technically Day 4)
Highlights
Moak Pancakes, Episode, and Noor Alsham Amsterdam
Morning
My last full day in Amsterdam was spent very low-key. At this point most of the city shutdown, so many of the plans I had were cancelled (understandably). To start the day off right, my sister and I wanted to eat at a relatively healthy restaurant in order to make sure we did not fall ill while away. That’s when we found Moak.
Moak Pancakes is such a unique restaurant in that they offer whole wheat pancakes, yogurt bowls, fresh ginger shots, and fresh juices. The restaurant workers heard our accents and sparked a conversation with us wondering how we were going to get home. After explaining that we honestly wouldn’t really know for sure until we got to the airport, the workers were so kind and gave us ginger shots on the house to help us keep up our immune system up.
Moak PancakesFresh ginger shots at Moak
One thing I loved about my time in Amsterdam is that being healthy is highly promoted. You’ll see people riding their bikes and walking everywhere. The restaurants also offer healthy options such as fresh ginger tea (with real ginger).
Fresh Ginger Tea
Following that delicious breakfast, shopping at Episode was up next. My sister who has a great eye for awesome finds wanted to check Episode out. If your into fashion and thrifting check out her Instagram Cheap_Chic_Chick. With that said, we had to stop at Episode which is a thrifting store chain in Amsterdam with vintage and second hand finds. This particular location in Berenstraat was huge, and has a wide variety of items to choose from. If you love shopping like me, please check it out.
Episode thrift store in Amsterdam
Afternoon
Although I was sad my trip was coming to an end, I was also concerned about how returning home would be. At this point in the trip, the country had completely shut down, so even finding a restaurant to eat dinner was difficult. If we found a restaurant, the lines were so long due to the restaurant only being able to accommodate a certain number of guests at once.
Thankfully my sister and I came across a simple eatery named Noor Alsham Amsterdam and had falafel wraps and chicken wraps which were delicious.
Evening
After a late lunch/early dinner, my sister and I went back to the hotel to pack, and anticipate our journey back home. We were following the news, and receiving updates from our friends and family throughout the trip.
In order to take our minds off of the unknown, we actually fell in love with this British show called Come Dine with Me. The premise of the show is that you host dinner in your home with 5 other contestants and cook a dinner experience for your guests. It’s a competition show with a monetary prize. Check it out and let me know what you think.
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Final Thoughts
Well that concludes my 4 Day Amsterdam Itinerary. A separate blog post detailing my trip home, and what happened afterward can be found here. Now that you know a little more about Amsterdam, check out this post on some Hidden Gems in the Netherlands. Thank you so much for reading! Would you travel to Amsterdam? Learn anything new, or have any feedback? Was this itinerary helpful? Please comment below, and subscribe here. To book some of the activities talked about in this blog post, or to find your own, check this out. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. Looking for the perfect travel gift for your loved one? Sign up for my freebie of travel gift ideas.
Found this blog post helpful? Any support is greatly appreciated 🙂
The recommendations for immune boosting products are my own personal suggestions on what works for me, and does not serve as medical or professional advice. Please consult with a medical professional. I am not the artist, nor do I take any of the credit of the art work displayed from the Moco Museum.
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Traveling to Paris and looking for information on the best restaurants, desserts, and sight seeing? Look no further, this blog post has it all!
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.
Paris was the second city I visited as part of my European tour with London as the first stop. Read more about my London trip here. Since I was already in London, I booked a trip on the Eurostar to take a beautiful scenic train ride to Paris which left from the London St. Pancras station and arrived in Paris Gare du Nord. The train ride took about 2 ½ hours and the price can range anywhere between €50.00+ Euros. Book your trip on the Eurostar here.
Paris Day 1
Highlights
Restaurant Indien Paris 19-Bombay Curry
Morning
We arrived in Paris early so after settling into our Airbnb, my sister and I took to exploring the beautiful Paris neighborhood by way of the Paris Metro (train) and on foot. Learn more and purchase your tickets for the Paris Metro here and read more about my other travels overseas using the public transit system here.
Paris MetroParis Street
Afternoon
My first day in Paris got off to a rough start due to a miscalculation. When exiting off my stop there were ticketing officers asking for the train ticket you purchased. My sister and I didn’t know we were supposed to hold onto the tickets so we threw them away. We were fined I believe €40 Euros which had to be paid immediately. Learn from my mistake, and hold onto your tickets indefinitely!
Evening
Paris weather can be a toss up, and the day we arrived it rained heavily on and off. Needless to say we got stuck in it. We were going to the Catacombs of Paris which after all that traveling and rigmarole was closed! There wasn’t enough time to revisit so if you go, let me know how it is. For dinner, I ate a very delicious Indian meal at Restaurant Indien Paris 19-Bombay Curry. My sister and I were so hungry photos were not taken, but I highly recommend it.
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Paris Day 2
Highlights
HolyBelly, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Gossellin, Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor, Quay of the Tuileries, Tuileries Garden, Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie
Morning
After catching up on rest, I woke up refreshed and ready to dominate the city. Breakfast started off at the very delicious Holybelly. There was a line out the door, but trust me it’s worth the wait. I opted for the eggs, bacon, french bread, and pancakes. The vibe of this restaurant felt very “Parisian”.
Breakfast at HolybellyHolybelly breakfast
Next stop on the list, the Eiffel Tower! If you follow me on Facebook, I mention how my sister and I walked the 600+ steps to the top instead of taking the elevator. Keep in mind the Eiffel Tower has a 2nd Floor, and a summit floor. Travel tip: You’re allowed to walk up to the 2nd Floor and it’s also cheaper at nearly €11 Euros. Read more about it here.
Top of the Eiffel Tower
Afternoon
You know by now that I love museums, so the first one I visited was the Musée d’Orsay. The artwork in the museum is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a must see if you’re in Paris. After exploring the museum, what good would I be if I didn’t sample all of the deliciousness Paris has to offer? Dessert at the Gosselin was next and where I fell in love with eclairs and chocolate croissants.
Dessert at Gosselin Musée d’Orsay Musée d’Orsay
After a quick bite we began exploring again on foot to see the Passerelle Léopold-Sédar-Senghor a footbridge over the River Seine. Passerelle links the Musée d’Orsay and Tuileries Garden. The Quay of the Tuileries is such a scenic walk with beautiful views of the water. You’ll see many people walking, running, and taking photos. Travel tip: The Tuileries Garden is a great way to explore France for free. You can think of it as Paris’s version of Central Park. I was in complete awe of the beautiful greenery and statues throughout the garden.
Tuileries GardenTuileries Garden
Evening
The Airbnb I stayed in had a very good bakery nearby named Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie (this place was recommended by our host). I did as the locals do and purchased a Paris baguette as well as an assortment of baked goods for dinner.
Baked goods at Paul Boulangerie et Patisserie
Paris Day 3
Highlights
Palais-Royal, Louvre Museum, Place Clemenceau, Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais, Arc de Triomphe, Forum Des Halles, L’as Du Fallafel, L’Equateur
Morning
The third day in Paris was even more jammed packed than the second day as we tried to make up for lost time on day 1. I wanted to make sure I had the opportunity to experience all of the landmarks. After a brief photo shoot where I had the opportunity to model my Paris outfit, the first stop on the list was Palais-Royal and the famous Louvre Museum.
Modeling in Paris
The Louvre Museum while extraordinary, was extremely packed (and with good reason). If you’re planning a trip try to get there early. Be forewarned it’s almost impossible to get an up close picture of the Mona Lisa, however it’s an experience seeing it in person. It’s worth mentioning the other impressive artwork collection the museum holds.
Louvre MuseumCrypt of the SphinxLouvre Museum
Afternoon
After the museum, I walked through the Place Clemenceau, and Champs-Élysées which runs through to the Arc de Triomphe. If you love shopping, restaurants, bars, cafés, theater etc. the Champs-Élysées is the place to be. Want to see a well known monument? The Grand Palais is dedicated to French art and is within walking distance.
Speaking of monuments, a visit to Paris would be incomplete without a trip to the iconic Arc de Triomphe. You can climb the Arc de Triomphe to the top, however my sister and I opted to stay at the ground level. The Arc de Triomphe honors the soldiers who fought for France.
Arc de TriompheGrand Palais
The Forum Des Halles is a shopping mall in the center of Paris with PLENTY to do. Seriously, you could easily spend a day here if you love shopping so I suggest you plan ahead. There’s a store for every budget, and plenty of restaurants.
Evening
Next up, L’as Du Fallafel. I love Lenny Kravitz, so when I found out he loved fallafel and recommended this place, it was a must that I go and check it out. The fallafels were served hot, very filling, and delicious! You won’t be disappointed if you eat here.
L’as Du FallafelFallafel Heaven
Speaking of restaurants, one of my favorites during this trip was L’Equateur. If you love Senegalese, Cameroonian, and Caribbean fare; or are interested in expanding your cultural horizons this is THE place to go.
Do your research and translation beforehand as the menu is in French. The waiters are also willing to help if you have any questions. I had the grilled chicken, rice, and plantain; the chef seasoned the chicken was so well! I honestly can’t wait to go back when I revisit.
Dinner at L’Equateur
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Final Thoughts
Well, that concludes my Paris 3 Day Travel Itinerary. I hope I piqued your interest and shared helpful tips. To book some of the activities discussed in this post, or to plan your own, check this out.
As always, thank you so much for reading. Would you travel to Paris? Learn anything new, or have any feedback? Was this itinerary helpful? Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me.
Please share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.
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I am not the artist, nor do I take any of the credit of any of the beautiful artwork or sculptures displayed from the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in this blog post.
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.
Traveling to the city of London and strapped for time? This travel itinerary will give you some great ideas on must sees, eats, and fun! I will also share with you the best time to visit this iconic city. Get ready, this itinerary is jammed pack, so feel free to pick and choose the activities that interest you the most.
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.
If you follow me on social media, I mentioned traveling to London for the first time 23 years ago. I’ve been multiple times since then, and I honestly can’t get enough. It’s a city I like to call my second home. When traveling to London, keep in mind London weather can be a toss up; it can be rainy, cold, snowy, etc. I lucked out when I traveled in May as the weather was beautiful and hot.
London Day 1
What to See
The day we arrived, my sister and I got right into it. We went to the Imperial War Museum (we both love museums). The IWM is a somber experience, however it’s a great museum to visit especially if you’re into history. Another great museum to visit would be the British Museum which is one of the largest museums documenting human culture. After the museum, we did some exploring on foot. I took some photos near the iconic red phone booth, and explored Piccadilly Circus (in the heart of London) a junction of 5 busy streets, Soho, and Chinatown in Westminster (Central London).
Imperial War MuseumIconic Red Telephone Booth Picture
What to Eatin London
After all of that walking, I was ready for some much needed noms. When in London, it’s a must you check out Poppies. My sister and I went specifically for their Fish and Chips, and it did not disappoint!
Poppies Fish and Chips (Fries)
How to Explore on a Budgetin London
I’m used to commuting as a New Yorker which has been a long tradition of mine, so while visiting other countries if possible, I try to utilize their transit system. While traveling around London, my sister and I took the bus and train like true Londeners thanks to Sadiq Khan who helped make London transportation more accessible. The Underground tube (train) and bus are very easy to navigate. I would suggest getting an Oyster card as it’s very easy to refill without having to worry about buying tickets.
London Day 2
What to Eat
To start the day off right, I just had to have a true English breakfast at Regency Cafe. Fun fact: My parents lived in England prior to moving to the US, and would cook this for my sisters and I sometimes for breakfast. While exploring, I went to Borough Market which is one of the oldest food markets in London. If you’re looking for open events this is a great option. Everything I had was so delicious; SERIOUSLY yummy baked goods (breads, donuts), and all kinds of different cheeses (I was in Carb heaven).
English Breakfast at Regency Cafe
What to Do
First stop on the list, was Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guards ceremony. This ceremony is free of charge and pretty cool to watch if you’re able to. Read more about it here. I would suggest visiting the Tower of London as well to learn more about the royal palace. After the ceremony, I took the city bus to Trafalgar Square which is a landmark, and signifies the British victory against the French and Spanish. Love shopping like me? Then you must check out Harrods which is a very famous luxury department store.
Changing of the Guards Ceremony
After shopping, London Bridge, and Camden Market were up next. Read more about the London Bridge here. Camden Market is awesome if you’re into rock and roll and all things unconventional. Lined with shops, fashion, graffiti, cafes, bars, and restaurants; it’s a place you should highly consider checking out. To party and chill for the night, we went to Lockside Camden which was probably my favorite nighttime spot in London.
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London Day 3
Sites to Explore on Foot
So the final full day of London was extremely busy just like the two days prior. I actually had a photo shoot with an amazing photographer, and was able to capture some great shots whilst visiting tourist attractions. I was able to see Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, River Thames, Westminster Bridge, the London Eye, Big Ben, Southbank Centre, and Jubilee Gardens.
Standing in front of Westminster Abbey
Memorable Eats
I couldn’t help but bring out my bougie side while attending afternoon high tea at the very beautiful and classy Wallace Collection Restaurant. I’ve mentioned to you guys multiple times that I LOVE tea, so tea paired with sandwiches, cakes, and scones?! SIGN ME UP IMMEDIATELY. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, and would highly recommend it.
Afternoon High Tea Goodies
More Ideas
I wanted to see more sites, but didn’t have as much time to continue exploring on foot. Luckily the red double decker hop-on, hop off bus tour exists. Why take it? It’s reasonably priced, and you can get off at any time. If you do decide to take this tour, you must sit at the top! Aim to do this on a very nice day (although you can still enjoy this tour on the lower level too). It’s a great way to see London especially if you’re strapped for time.
Red Double Decker Bus Tour w/my big sis in London!
Keep in mind, this list isn’t conclusive as I only scratched the surface. You can always check out the University of London, Royal Parks, or some of the London Boroughs and exhibition spaces to name a few. Well, that concludes my three day itinerary in London. I hope I helped and inspired you to travel there because I had a blast!
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Final Thoughts
As always, thank you so much for reading. Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. If you’d like to share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. To book some of the tours and activities discussed on this trip, or to plan your own click here. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.
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Aruba, also known as: “One Happy Island”, is one of the Caribbean islands located in the South Caribbean and belongs to the Netherlands. The official language spoken in Aruba are Dutch, Papiamento, English, and Spanish, however; Dutch and Papiamento are their primary languages and it’s one of the best places you can travel to. Aruba is one of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), and is a relatively small island to explore. The major airport you’ll fly into is the Queen Beatrix International Airport. Now that we know a little more about Aruba, read on for my Aruba itinerary.
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.
An interesting fact about Aruba is that the climate is great to travel to almost any time of the year because it is south of the hurricane belt so no hurricane season. This means perfectly sunny days, gorgeous beaches, turquoise water, with little to no chance of rain. I love to plan ahead so I used this site to help put together my Aruba travel guide. The flight to Aruba itself wasn’t too long clocking in at about 4 hours 45 minutes from NYC. If you’re flying in from the west coast allot for more travel time.
About Aruba Continued…
Things to keep in mind: Aruba is a VERY popular destination. If you can, the best time (and in my opinion the best way) is to try and take your vacation when it isn’t high season. I booked my trip in September which is considered a slower time on the island and the best option for my travel experience. A bonus to going in the off season is a much quieter and peaceful experience. Another bonus is scoring a great deal on both my flight and hotel due to off peak prices.
FYI, Aruba is one of the more expensive islands so prepare well for this. The official currency of the country is the Aruban Florin, but United States (US) currency is widely accepted as well as major credit cards or debit cards on the island of Aruba. In retrospect, it is probably easier to just use U.S. dollars.
Where to Stay in Aruba
There’s a plethora of hotel options to stay at while on the island suitable for anyone’s budget. I stayed at the Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino which is not only a great place, but a great option if you’re looking to be close to the beach. The customer service was impeccable as well as the amenities included and I had a good time.
The room I stayed in had spacious accommodations, a kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and stove if you’d like to prepare your own meals; private balcony, pools, a swim up pool bar, and live entertainment. (Check my Pinterest story on Aruba here). Aruba has plenty of all inclusive resorts, and luxury resorts if you’d prefer to stay in one.
The resort also provides beach towels free of charge; simply sign out one with your name and room number (There is a fee if you lose the towel so be careful). The hotel is centrally located; a quick walk from the hotel would take you to the supermarket as well as within walking distance to other major hotels and restaurants nearby.
Transportation in Aruba
The bus stop to get into town was also close by so public transportation was pretty accessible. The bus system was awesome in Aruba, super clean, ran on time, and it runs late. The island has bus maps with schedules to follow which makes it easy and convenient. Plus at $2.60 one way it’s super cheap. Similar to NYC with the Metrocard, the Aruba bus system has their own version; so purchasing and adding money towards your fare is really easy.
The bus is slower though it travels all over the island. If that doesn’t convince you, local taxis are available on the island as well. Taxis can add up, so why not blend in like a local? In my opinion it makes for a more authentic experience and the easiest way you get to really take in the island.
Whichever route you decide definitely plan your time accordingly! Some days I took the bus, but most days I took a taxi out of convenience. There’s also car rentals available. Here’s one of my travel tips: I became friends with one of my taxi drivers, and he actually became my personal taxi for the remainder of the trip which was really helpful.
City Bus in Aruba
Where to Eat in Aruba
Breakfast
Those of you who have followed me for awhile know food is my thing! So naturally I couldn’t wait to sample all of the seafood and yummy noms on the island. For breakfast, I mostly ate at the breakfast buffet located at my hotel called Double Down Sports Bar & Grill (they have a daily buffet breakfast for $12.50).
On days I switched things up, I went to breakfast at Diana’s Pancake Place and Dutch Pancake House; both places specialize in Dutch-style pancakes and Poffertjes (silver dollar pancakes). If you’re in the mood for something familiar, there’s a Dunkin Donuts right on the hotel property.
Lunch|Dinner
For lunch and dinner I tried quite a few different places located either on the property, in town, or included with the excursions. Uncle Tony’s Pizza (located on the property) was one as well as The West Deck (absolutely delicious and one of my favs), Red Fish (also very good for fresh seafood), Driftwood (one of the best restaurants), Arashi Beach Shack, Pelican Nest Seafood Grill (part of the excursion and very good), The Old Fisherman, Moomba Beach, and Big Mama’s Grill (San Nicolas).
Pro tip: During my visit, Aruba restaurant week was ongoing which for some places meant 3 course pre-fixe meals for affordable prices downtown Oranjestad. A good idea is to try to research beforehand to see if it’s going on the time you’ll be there.
Hack for Dinner in Aruba
As promised in my social media sneak preview, the hack for Passions on the Beach is a 3 course pre-fixe meal for 2 for $130 including a bottle of wine. Passions did not participate in restaurant week, however in my opinion this deal cannot be beat. When you factor in the ambiance of the restaurant, a beach side view, live entertainment, and a delicious meal, it’s well worth the price. Keep in mind this deal might not be offered all the time so call ahead to verify.
Honorable mention is Zeerovers. Though I didn’t get a chance to dine there, I was told by a local personally that it’s a place you should definitely check out to taste local food during your Aruba vacation. I can say with all honesty I really enjoyed pretty much every restaurant on the island, salute to the chefs!
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West Deck RestaurantThe Dutch Pancake House- Poffertjes pictured.Passions on the Beach
Exploring in Aruba
Most people think of Aruba as a honeymoon location, a cruise ships stop, a place for family vacation, or for older people. However, there is a surge of younger people traveling to the island. In fact, I’ve come across people who love Aruba so much they mentioned it was their 4th or 5th time going! I know I will definitely return at some point.
This first visit I went with my mom as our annual trip together and we both had a blast. Aruba offers nightlife options as well, so don’t think you can’t go with your girlfriends or guy friends and not have fun. Check out some of the neighboring hotels, casinos, clubs, or lounges and hit the dance floor! I personally enjoyed South Beach Aruba, and the Hard Rock Cafe which has live entertainment.
A great way to learn about Aruba and its history is to attend the Bon Bini Festival which takes place every Tuesday. It’s very reasonably priced and interactive. Plus you can get authentic cuisine courtesy of the locals. Funny story, I was actually pulled up to dance during the festival. My mom who thought she was recording actually wasn’t so I don’t have it on video lol. If you’re looking for a free way to explore the island catch the Aruba streetcar/trolley (you can hop on and off at any time and it’s a nice slow ride).
Things to Do in Aruba
I love all things water and warm weather, so I took the Sunset Cruise & Seaside Dinneroffered through Viator. This cruise offers light refreshments, spectacular ocean views, and a bar on board if you plan to opt out of the dinner. Plus pretty much everyone dances on the ship. I also booked the Aruba Island Tour, this tour picks you up directly from the hotel as long as it’s centrally located. The tour makes stops to the Aloe Vera Factory (which has awesome lotions, soaps, and deodorants to purchase), Casibari Rock Formation, Natural Bridge at Arikok National Park, Alto Vista Chapel, the California Lighthouse, and even some of the residences in the neighborhood.
If you love nature and wildlife, try the Half-Day Animal Sanctuary Tour. This tour takes you to the ArubaOstrich Farm, Donkey Sanctuary, and Philips Animal Garden where you’ll have the opportunity to support the sanctuaries, feed the animals, and learn about the wildlife. Shopping is also abundant in Aruba; check out Paseo Herencia, Palm Beach Plaza Mall, or Renaissance Mall.
Aruba Continued…
If you aren’t much of a shopping person, you can always go kite surfing, go to a full-service spa, horseback riding, swim in an outdoor pool or natural pool, play water sports, go scuba diving in the Caribbean sea to see the marine life, take a jeep tour, visit the butterfly farm, drive through the entire island, go to Stellaris casino at Aruba Marriott Resort (there’s other casino options too), or visit one of the beautiful beaches and just take in the sun since it’s a tropical climate.
The first time I went to Aruba I did not have enough time to visit Flamingo Beach. If you’d like to go, you can either stay at the Renaissance Aruba Resort or purchase a day pass which will take you to Renaissance Island. Although I was not able to do this, I have heard it’s one of the best experiences.
Places to Go in Aruba
Last but definitely not least if you aren’t in a rush, one of the important things I would highly suggest is taking a mini day trip to San Nicolas for the culture and history alone. It’s very easy to get there, it’s about a 45 minute drive. The taxi man I befriended took me there and back.
In addition, San Nicolas also has Baby Beach which is one of the best beaches besides Eagle Beach. What makes Baby Beach special (aside from the breathtaking view), is that the water is so shallow, that you can venture far into the water and still touch the bottom. Of course always exercise caution and be safe. That being said, San Nicolas is worth taking the time out to visit.
Myself at Eagle BeachStreetcar/TrolleyPhilips Animal GardenNatural BridgeOstrich FarmSunset CruiseBaby Beach
Final Thoughts
Well, that concludes my trip to Aruba. I hope this blog post was helpful and piqued your interest in visiting and has given you peace of mind in planning your next trip. FYI: Aruba is a hot destination, make sure you have a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect and block out the sun!
Thank you guys so much for reading please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. If you’d like to share, click the icons located at the beginning of the blog post. Email me here if you’d like to collaborate: Lenore@thenittygrittytravelot.com.
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Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. The full disclosure can be found here.
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