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Italy

To get a full refund, cancellation must be no less than 8 days before the local start time of the experience.

If traveler cancels their booking from 7 to 0 days before the local start time of the experience, no refund is provided.

This experience walks the edge between history and imagination, following Dante Alighieri through a city that burned long before he cast it into verse. Florence in the Middle Ages was already a theatre of violence, plague, betrayals, and power struggles — Dante saw it all and made it eternal.

You’ll stop at the Duomo, where his best-known portrait still watches over the city, and the Battistero, the only church unchanged since his time. In Sant’Ambrogio, the memory of a children’s cemetery lingers, echoing the invention of Limbo. The alleys of his political quarter speak of exile and vendetta, while the Lungarni still carry the weight of lives and sins he condemned in poetry.

Each step brings you closer to the real city that became a blueprint for the Inferno — not a metaphor, but a mirror. Dante didn’t imagine hell. He lived in it. And in shaping it, he sealed Florence into the afterlife.

What sets this experience apart is its focus on the figure who shaped Italian literature and profoundly influenced how Florence is seen and remembered across the centuries. Dante Alighieri — known in Italy as il Sommo Poeta, the Supreme Poet — turned a city torn by plague, violence, and political strife into the timeless landscape of his Divine Comedy. This walk brings those verses back to the streets that inspired them, revealing a Florence both real and imagined.

You’ll follow a path through places tied to Dante’s life and fears, guided as much by literature as by history. The experience uncovers a lesser-known Florence — its medieval core, its lost cemeteries, its riverside scenes  — through lines that still burn with meaning.

Guido, a licensed guide with deep roots in Tuscany, brings rare insight to the experience. With care and precision, he weaves Dante’s world into the very streets of the city, making each stop resonate with both cultural depth and human intensity.

Walking Tour in Florence exploring Dante’s medieval Florence, his life, and the Inferno inspiration.

The per person price of this experience assumes a minimum number of participants to cover base costs and logistics. The supplemental fee enables us to maintain quality and exclusivity for your smaller than minimum group

Walking into Dante’s Inferno

Full guidance.

A gelato break along the way.

You’ll meet Guido in Piazza dei Cerchi. He’ll wear a red t-shirt to be easily spotted, echoing Dante’s iconic red robe.

Guido Scattola is a licensed guide with over six years of experience bringing Italy’s cultural heritage to life. Born in Venice and raised in Tuscany, he found in Florence a city that captured both his heart and his curiosity. Since 2018, he has led visitors through its streets, museums, and quiet corners, sharing not only the grandeur of Renaissance art and architecture but also the subtle charm of the city’s lesser-known stories.

What makes Guido’s approach unique is his ability to balance the majestic with the intimate. Whether he’s guiding you through the opulent halls of the Medici, exploring the legacy of Dante, or unveiling the traditions behind Florentine fashion, he does so with contagious enthusiasm and deep knowledge. For Guido, every detail in Florence tells a story — and his passion lies in revealing how those stories weave together into something unforgettable.

Greece

This experience weaves together landscapes, stories, and craftsmanship from Santorini’s lesser-known paths. It begins with a stop at a striking volcanic opening — beloved by locals — for a wide, wind-kissed view of Oia and Imerovigli from afar. Afterwards, you'll meet some of the island’s skilled artisans — a ceramicist, jeweler, sandalmaker, woodcarver, or leather worker — who continues to create by hand, preserving knowledge and creativity shaped by generations.

You’ll then wander the winding alleys of Emporeio, a village with remarkable architecture, where homes are built into the protective curve of a Venetian wall. Pause here for an ice cream or a baklava with homemade lemonade—before heading to the island’s Tomato Museum, where Santorini’s famously intense cherry tomato is preserved along with the memory of a vanishing rural life.

The experience ends with a soul-warming lunch at a family-run taverna. Alternatively, you can swap lunch for a small family winery visit.

Beyond the clichés and postcard images, another Santorini endures — made of family-run shops, lived-in workshops, and people who carry forward skills, gestures, and stories often overlooked. What makes this experience different is the space it gives to encounter those lives without spectacle: what you see is not staged, but simply ongoing.

You’ll share a table where the recipes are still handwritten, and the ingredients come from places with names and faces, not labels. You’ll listen to voices that speak of time, practice, and the pride of those who continue to make with their hands, every day.

Maria is part of this living network. She introduces you to people she’s known for years. Her presence opens doors that are rarely accessible to visitors, allowing you to enter the natural rhythm of places that are rarely on display. Through her, the island speaks in its own voice: steady, skilled, and deeply human.

Artisan Tour in Santorini with visits to workshops and encounters with local artisans at work.

The Makers of Santorini

Guided cultural route across lesser-known Santorini with a resident host.

Scenic stop at a volcanic caldera opening.

Visits to artisan studios (like ceramics, jewelry, sandals, wood, leather).

Walk through Emporeio’s historic alleys.

Tomato Museum entry ticket.

Air-conditioned transportation.

Water provided.

Hearty meal at a family-run taverna. Option to swap lunch for a small family winery visit.

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen and a hat.

This experience includes light to moderate walking, with regular breaks as needed.

Maria offers pick-up from your hotel, the port, the airport, or the top of the cable car. Contact her via Chat after booking for arrangements.

Maria Petraki was born and raised in Santorini, and continues to live there year-round. Her deep connection to the island shapes every experience she creates — guided not by routes or checklists, but by the real pace of local life.

She welcomes guests with the warmth of Greek hospitality, offering moments that feel more like a visit with old friends than a scheduled activity. Through her, you’ll discover the Santorini where life unfolds slowly, where people still stop for coffee, conversation, and the beauty of small things.

With a natural sense for storytelling and attention to detail, Maria curates experiences that are thoughtful, unhurried, and truly memorable.

France

Follow Nikesh on a one-of-a-kind exploration of Bordeaux through its boulangeries — iconic, beloved, and full of personality. Over the years, he’s tasted his way across the city, mapping every oven and testing every crust. The result is a route refined just for Fernwayer, featuring only the most exceptional bakeries he knows.

You’ll stop for fresh-out-of-the-oven viennoiseries, savoury specialties, and unexpected creations that show how inventive and local this daily ritual can be. Some of the stops are shared only on this route — places Nikesh reserves for rare occasions, chosen for their story, craft, and the connection he has built over time. Along the way, you’ll discover how different each bakery truly is, from philosophy to flour.

Midway through, pause at a specialty café Nikesh loves — a moment to sip something together, talk about what you’ve tasted, and dive deeper into what makes Bordeaux’s bakery culture so remarkable.

This experience stands out for its carefully curated selection of boulangeries chosen exclusively for Fernwayer. Each bakery is nestled within a distinct, lively neighborhood of Bordeaux, allowing guests to explore the city’s rich diversity far beyond the usual paths.

What makes this journey special is the chance to taste pastries crafted with care that reveal Bordeaux’s culinary soul. The experience goes beyond eating — it’s about discovering the city’s many layers, much like a perfectly leavened dough unfolding its complex texture. Every bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the intimate relationship between local ingredients and artisan skill.

The inclusion of stops that are exclusive to Fernwayer adds a unique dimension, giving guests access to gems cherished by Nikesh himself. Pausing at a specialty café further enriches the experience, providing space to savor, reflect, and engage with the passion behind Bordeaux’s beloved baking culture.

Tasting Tour in Bordeaux discovering iconic boulangeries with flaky pastries and local specialties.

Flaky Bites of Bordeaux

All pastries, a drink, transportation via city tram, and bread samples.

Come hungry, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a water bottle and a bag for any goodies you may want to take home.


You'll meet Nikesh just to the left of the entrance of Saint-Michel Basilica. You will see a big green door.


Australian-born Nikesh Gounden has been living in Bordeaux for over six years, where his work as a food writer has deepened into a passion for the city’s bakeries and street food. He explores with patience and curiosity, tasting and listening, uncovering the family traditions, techniques and recipes that shape Bordeaux’s pastry culture.

His experiences connect history and flavor, weaving together architecture, daily rituals and sensory detail — from a buttery pain au chocolat in a courtyard to a warm canelé in an 18th-century arcade. With Nikesh, each tasting becomes a story, and each walk through Bordeaux an encounter with its living rhythms.

Mexico

Just outside Oaxaca city is a community called San Andres Huayapam, that is famed as the birthplace of tejate. This thoughtfully curated experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with this tradition firsthand. You’ll explore the area where it was founded, peruse local murals, plus meet a traditional tejatera who will explain the process, ingredients and the history of this nutritious drink.

This pre-Hispanic libation was used in sowing and harvesting ceremonies and also consumed by Zapotec kings. It’s made from corn, cacao, flor de rosita, toasted mamey pits, and water in a massive clay pot. It’s traditionally served in a painted bowl known as a jícara.

We’ll then enjoy fresh tejate and a snack with this tejatera in her home. Finally, we’ll walk to a restaurant for a set sampler meal of traditional delicacies. This venue is located in the courtyard of another local family home, and sits under a canopy of branches, which are key to producing the blooms in the tejate process.

While the host has lived in Oaxaca for a decade, five of those years have been spent in this Zapotec community. Here, she has forged meaningful connections with locals and can speak to how the town voluntarily operates under Indigenous usos y costumbres law, as well as the annual tejate festival. That said, the specifics of this tradition will be shared by an expert local who has inherited her skills from a long line of tejate makers.

Located roughly 20 minutes from Oaxaca de Juárez, this scenic pueblo offers a glimpse of traditional village life—locals working the fields, burros carrying firewood, and adobe makers crafting custom earthen bricks. An especially popular destination for Oaxacans on weekends, many travel here to sample tejate, visit nearby lakes, and enjoy gourmet fare in family-run restaurants. It’s an authentic window into everyday life in this stunning region of southern Mexico.

Food Tour from Oaxaca to San Andrés Huayapam: explore traditional tejate & food with Zapotec hosts.

Where Tejate Was Born

Guided walking tour of local murals and sites in San Andrés Huayapam.

Visit with a traditional tejatera to learn about tejate history and preparation.

Fresh tejate and snack served in the tejatera’s home.

Set sampler meal of Oaxacan delicacies in a family courtyard.

One beer or one agua fresca included with the meal.

Experience hosted in homes central to tejate tradition.


We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, water, and your camera or phone, if you'd like to take photos. 

Pick up and drop off will be in front of the Italian Coffee Company at Lic Manuel Ruiz 300A, Reforma, 68050, Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca, Mexico. The host will be there 15 minutes before the departure time and participants will leave for the trip with them at the stated time on the page. This transit time is included in the total listed hours on the experience. 

Ehren Seeland is a Oaxaca-based creative with a background in art and design and journalism, who travels the globe for professional and personal pursuits. A long-term resident of Oaxaca with family ties to the city, her passion for regional produce, traditional skills, and social impact makes her a fantastic host for the culturally curious and socially minded traveler.

Through all of her projects—including Hecho, a marketplace of artisan-made goods from natural materials—Ehren maintains an active focus on supporting Mexican ancestral traditions through handmade product development, including textiles, pottery, homewares, and other works. Her projects also place special emphasis on supporting women and indigenous communities.

Türkiye

This is a day-long journey into the trade life of Istanbul—told through its markets, caravan inns, and shared meals. This walking tour crosses from the old merchant quarters of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar to the everyday rhythms of Kadıköy, weaving through Ottoman courtyards, the "hans", and backstreet cafés along the way. You’ll visit a working caravanserai, meet a craftsperson keeping old trades alive, see rare views of the city from various points, and sit down to the same dishes traders still eat today—sour soups, lentil köfte, helva, mussels, meze. You’ll walk through wholesale alleys behind the Spice Bazaar and visit the Süleymaniye complex—once a spiritual and logistical nerve center of the empire. Then you’ll cross the Bosphorus by ferry, stepping into the present-day hum of market life on the Asian side. This is the story of Istanbul—told through trade routes, shared meals, and the spaces in between.

This is the perfect experience if you have limited time in Istanbul and want to spend a day really immersing in the markets, life and stories of the past and present. 

You’ll walk the actual paths of merchants—through caravan inns, passages, mosque courtyards, and side streets still lined with trade. In and around the Grand Bazaar, you’ll meet craftspeople working from the same hans used by Silk Road traders. In Tahtakale, you’ll snack where delivery boys and porters do. At Süleymaniye, you’ll stand in a mosque complex designed not just for prayer, but for feeding and sheltering the city's workers and travelers. And in Kadıköy, you’ll taste the present: fish, pickles, olives, meze—sold where Byzantium once stood. You won’t be guided by landmarks. You’ll be guided by habits—where people have eaten, traded, gathered, and moved for centuries. This is a tour of food and trade, but also of time—of what endures, and what Istanbul still remembers.

Begin in the backstreets behind the Grand Bazaar, tracing the paths once walked by camel caravans carrying silk, spice, and ceramics into the city. You'll see what a "Han" is, a rare surviving caravanserai, where merchants once slept above their stored goods and conducted trade in the courtyard below. You'll meet working craftspeople—perhaps a silversmith tapping out a filigree pendant or a textile expert unrolling handwoven fabric.  

You'll discover the grand courtyard of Valide Han, Istanbul’s largest historic caravanserai built in the mid-1600s. At its height, this bustling hub served as a center for merchants from across the Ottoman Empire—storing goods, hosting travelers, and facilitating trade in spices, silk, carpets, and more. As you explore its vaulted galleries and stone chambers, your guide will bring to life the story of Ottoman commerce to life.

Most visits to the Grand Bazaar stick to the shops. This takes you behind the scenes—into the living architecture and working culture that still animate the commercial heart of Istanbul. You'll get into the daily pulse of the Bazaar to eat where the traders do: a quiet spot serving tripe soup, lentil köfte, or white beans in tomato—flavors that haven’t changed in decades. You'll observe, listen, and eat where merchants still do -- and see places that would be nearly impossible to find on your own. 

Walking Tour segment in Grand Bazaar behind-the-scenes with artisans, tradespeople, food stalls.

Grand Bazaar Behind-the-Scenes

Enter the Spice Bazaar, still thick with scent and sound since 1660. Walk beneath its vaulted ceilings lined with saffron, sumac, and dried hibiscus sold by families who've worked the same stalls for generations. From there, slip behind the scenes into Tahtakale—one of Istanbul’s least understood but most vital trade arteries. This wholesale district still hums with activity: dried goods in sacks, hardware stacked in back alleys, and passageways filled with carts and crates. You’ll visit a seed seller or a traditional coffee roaster, sample a bite of pastırma or briny olives, and see warehouses that once handled goods from the Golden Horn—now selling lanterns, metalwork, and bulk tools.

Tahtakale is where trade still breathes, not where tourists linger. Most don’t realize this system runs parallel to the bazaar’s more curated front. You’re not just seeing where things are sold—you’re seeing how a city moves goods through its bones. This stage offers a tactile sense of logistics: the noise, the repetition, the stories behind every crate and counter.

Walk through Spice Bazaar and backstreets of Tahtakale, tasting goods,  tracing the supply lines

Spices and Side Streets

Climb toward one of Istanbul’s architectural high points—Süleymaniye Mosque, designed by imperial architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century. This was once a civic hub. Visit the former caravanserai, the soup kitchen (imaret) that fed the poor, and the medical clinic (darüşşifa) that served travelers and locals alike. As you move through the complex, you’ll see how Ottoman ideals of charity, urban planning, and commerce were woven together. Pause in the courtyard to take in panoramic views of the Golden Horn, then, if time allows, sit for helva and tea at a nearby terrace café still frequented by porters and theology students.

Süleymaniye is a beautiful site. The route will stay in the courtyard and grounds and the include the incredible views. Your guide will explain how this is also a working model of Ottoman urban design. This part of the tour reveals how empire-era Istanbul was structured to serve body, soul, and society through tightly interlinked institutions. You’ll see how infrastructure shaped public life. And you’ll appreciate how Istanbul’s waterways shaped its character — from commerce to culture — and enjoy a stunning panorama of Sinan’s masterpiece mosque, dating to 1550‑57. 

Walk in Süleymaniye’s mosque complex where Ottoman trade, charity, and faith once worked in unison

Faith, Trade & Social Design

Take the ferry across the Bosphorus to Kadıköy, once known as Chalcedon—now one of the most dynamic neighborhoods on the Asian side. Walk through its market streets: fruit stands heavy with pomegranates, pickle shops filled with barrels of lemony brine, and fishmongers calling out the catch of the day. Then head to Yeldeğirmeni, a lesser-known neighborhood where former trade buildings now house artist studios, cafés, and co-ops. The day closes with a shared plate of meze at a simple spot tucked off the main drag—maybe stuffed mussels, maybe fried anchovies—eaten to the soundscape of Istanbul's modern rhythm.

This is where you cross over to modern market life. Kadıköy is a lived-in, working district. You’re entering a continuation of the same story of trading, commerce and food, carried by food, space, and daily life. It’s a reminder that Istanbul’s past isn’t just behind us—it’s still being cooked, sold, ferried, and lived.

Cross to Kadıköy by ferry and explore life, murals, and meze in Istanbul’s new markets

Crossing to the Asian Side

Walking Tour and Ferry Trip exploring trade stories and food culture surrounding Istanbul’s markets.

Stories of Caravanserai

Guided exploration of the sights listed with historical background.

Ferry ride across the Bosphorus (both ways)

Curated culinary tastings.

Comfortable walking shoes for navigating markets and historic streets.
A camera to capture the vibrant scenes and architecture.
A water bottle to stay hydrated during the journey.

The tour begins near the Grand Bazaar in Sultanahmet. Hatice will confirm the meeting point post-booking via Chat.

Your host is a seasoned cultural guide with deep expertise in Istanbul's history and culinary traditions. With strong ties to local artisans and vendors, and well-versed in the history of the Silk Route and the trading traditions of that time, that share stories and create genuine interactions that offer unique insights into the city’s heritage. Passionate about Istanbul’s vibrant past and flavors, your guide crafts an experience that immerses you in authentic neighborhoods you will visit, going beyond the usual tourist path to reveal the city’s true character.

This experience takes you on a journey through the rise and decline of the Medici family, exploring two extraordinary sites tied to their legacy. You begin at the Medici Chapels, the monumental burial place behind San Lorenzo. Far more than a tomb, this complex was designed to glorify the family’s power. You'll visit the Chapel of the Princes, a stunning display of Florentine mosaics and colored marbles, and Michelangelo’s New Sacristy, where art and dynastic ambition meet in sculpted form.

Afterwards, you stroll through the heart of Florence, pausing for a coffee along the way, before reaching Palazzo Pitti. Once the lavish residence of the grand dukes, this palace reflects centuries of Medici grandeur. You'll explore masterpieces by Raphael, Titian and Rubens, walk through the royal apartments, and gaze out toward the Boboli Gardens. Alongside beauty and magnificence, you’ll also uncover the private stories and scandals that shaped the dynasty’s dramatic fall.

What makes this experience unique is the way it reveals the Medici not only as patrons of the arts or political players, but as lasting architects of Florence itself. Their influence shaped the city’s culture and institutions, but also its very structure — from sacred chapels to private palaces, from hidden symbols to grand urban planning decisions that still define the cityscape today.

Guided by someone who knows Florence intimately and has spent years exploring its layers, you’ll gain access to insights that go beyond the surface. This is a journey through art and architecture, but also an exploration of how a single family forged the image of a city and projected its power through time and space.

Whether it’s a mosaic, a painting or a room with a view, each stop in this experience is a key to understanding how the Medici helped write Florence’s past — and, in many ways, its present.

Walking Tour in Florence exploring Medici chapels, palaces, mosaics, and grand ducal history.

The Medici Cast

Full guidance.

Museum entries.

A coffee break.

You'll meet Guido in Piazza della Madonna degli Aldobrandini 1.

This is a sensory journey designed to engage all your senses - as you explore the rich culinary and natural landscapes of the Karst region surrounding Trieste. Your adventure begins with a private transfer from Trieste to the picturesque village of Prepotto. Here, a leisurely ascent up a small hill not only offers stunning views of the stark, beautiful terrain and lush vineyards but also allows you to touch and smell the aromatic herbs that dot the landscape.

The experience deepens at a secluded cheese farm nestled in the heart of the Karst, where you will taste finely aged cheeses, each rich with unique flavors imparted by the region’s natural cave environments. Accompanying the cheeses, you will sample local wines, noted for their distinctive minerality derived from the Karst's rocky soil.

Your sensory tour concludes with a visit to a vibrant lavender field just across the border in Slovenia, where the visual beauty and soothing scents provide a finale to this immersive experience.

Anna will pick you up from your hotel in Trieste. After booking, please chat with her to confirm your hotel details. 

This tour is distinguished by its immersive approach to experiencing the Karst region's unique landscapes and artisanal traditions. The walk in Prepotto not only showcases the stunning karstic terrain and vineyards but also immerses you in the natural aromas of the region, from aromatic herbs to the earthy scent of limestone. 

At the cheese farm, you'll taste cheeses that have absorbed the essence of the Karst through aging in limestone caves, offering flavors you can't find elsewhere. These cheeses, paired with wines that echo the mineral notes of the local terrain, create a culinary profile deeply rooted in the region's geological and cultural fabric.

The tour concludes with a serene visit to a Slovenian lavender field, where the visual and olfactory beauty marks a peaceful finale to your sensory exploration. 

Each element of this tour is carefully chosen by Anna to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the Karst's distinct geographic, gastronomic and cultural landscape.

Continue your journey at a renowned cheese farm in the heart of the Karst region. Here, you will be guided through a sophisticated tasting session by one of the cheese makers. The session highlights premium aged cheeses that have been matured in natural limestone caves, incorporating the very essence of the Karst into their flavors. Learn about the age-old techniques that are still employed to craft these exquisite cheeses, and enjoy them paired with a selection of perfectly matched wines, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

The cheese tasting at the farm is an insightful and impressive experience that connects you to the ancient culinary traditions of the Karst region. The cheeses, matured in the unique microclimate of limestone caves, offer a taste that is as educational as it is delightful, reflecting the geological and cultural richness of the area. Similarly, you will enjoy the pairing with distinctively mineral-rich Karst wines in the tasting experience. 

A cheese and wine tasting experience focused on the karst region of Trieste. 

Karst-based Gastronomy

Pick-up in your hotel in Trieste (or meet in a central point in Trieste if you are driving from elsewhere). A short drive gets you to the quaint village of Prepotto. 

Embark on a sensory-rich exploration with a gentle hike up a small hill, where you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the stark, rugged terrain and verdant vineyards typical of the Karst region. The walk through this picturesque area engages your sense of smell with the fragrance of aromatic herbs scattered throughout the landscape, and natural rock arches that you'll encounter along the way. Perfect for photo opportunities too. 

Anna will pick you up from your Trieste hotel.

The initial phase of the tour in Prepotto offers a unique integration of various sensory experiences. It combines the visual beauty of the Karst landscape with tactile interactions with natural formations and the aromatic pleasures of wild herbs, providing a deep connection to the natural world of this unique geological region.

An exploratory and sensorial walk through the Karst Plateau

Exploring the Karst Landscape

Conclude your sensory journey with a visit to expansive lavender fields located just across the border in Slovenia. The fields, part of the offerings at a well-established lavender farm, provide a visually stunning and fragrantly rich finale. Here, you can immerse yourself in the soothing scents of lavender, enjoy the peaceful ambiance, and learn about the distillation of essential oils and other lavender-derived products. This is followed by a drive back to Trieste.

This is an opportunity to engage with an important agricultural product of the region. The fields offer not only a visual and olfactory feast but also an insight into the sustainable cultivation and processing of lavender, showcasing innovative agricultural practices in a stunning natural setting. You'll also meet the makers - who are genuine and welcoming.

Slovenia

Lavender fields in Slovenia

Day Trip to Trieste’s Karst region: taste local wines/cheeses and visit a lavender farm in Slovenia.

The Many Tastes of the Karst

Half-day guided sensory tour through the Karst region.

Private transportation from Trieste to Prepotto and back.

Guided walks.

Exclusive access to a cheese cave and wine tastings near Trieste.

Visit to a lavender farm in Slovenia (April to September). The lavender farm will be replaced with an alternative in the other months.

A bottle of water. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, along with a camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended as the walk involves varying elevations and conditions.

Trieste is approximately 2 hours by train from Venice. It is also 30 minutes by road from the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana.  Anna will pick you up from your Trieste hotel (or meet at a central point in Trieste if you're driving from elsewhere). After booking, please chat with her to confirm your hotel details. 

Anna is a local naturalist and cultural/historic expert, deeply knowledgeable about the Karst region's history, viticulture, and culinary traditions. With a background in cultural history and a passion for sustainable tourism, she brings a unique perspective that enriches this experience. 

Portugal

This private, exclusive evening unfolds entirely within the Palácio de Mateus — an iconic 18th century Baroque estate completed in 1743 and designated a National Monument in 1910. After public hours, you’ll enter through the main gate, when the palace and reflective pond lie silent. A senior guide from the Casa de Mateus Foundation will lead you through the most emblematic rooms including intricately carved chestnut wood salons, private chapel, 16th century winery, and formal gardens shaped over centuries. 

Then, in a reserved dining salon, a dedicated chef prepares a five course tasting menu rooted in the Douro’s heritage. Each dish highlights regional DOP ingredients, paired with Lavradores de Feitoria wines — the palace’s own brand, named after the 2000 cooperative project it helped launch. With no other guests, this is a private celebration among national treasures. Ideal for marking a milestone — an anniversary, proposal, or significant birthday.

This is a curated evening of rarity and intimacy. Your visit begins after the palace is closed to the public, and the façade is quietly illuminated. It’s a rare privilege of access. A Foundation specialist guide opens rooms – some of which are normally off limits, sharing insights into this Baroque masterpiece by Nicolau Nasoni, the family’s lineage, and the palace’s cultural significance. At night, the estate takes on a stillness once reserved for the family themselves — quiet, romantic, and uninterrupted.

Dinner follows in a historic salon, with table set just for you. Between courses, you may wander and take photos, revisit favorite paintings, or step into the garden under the stars. The private chef and sommelier attend solely to your table, pairing each course with wines that trace Douro’s diversity.

The format— after-hours palace access, private salon dining, full estate immersion — creates an evening of exclusive elegance. 

Douro Valley Dinner Tour: After-hours Mateus Palace exclusive visit and dinner inside the estate.

Evening at Mateus Palace

After-hours private access to Palácio de Mateus in Vila Real.

Fifty-minute guided tour of the palace’s salons, chapel, winery, formal gardens led by a senior guide from the Casa de Mateus Foundation.

Welcome apéritif served in your reserved dining salon.

Five-course dinner prepared by a dedicated chef using regional DOP ingredients.

Wine pairings from Lavradores de Feitoria, including selections from the palace’s own 

Private transfer from your hotel or train station within the Douro region

Smart casual evening attire (jackets recommended)
Optional shawl or wrap for chapel or garden
Camera or smartphone (flash-free photography allowed)
Appreciation for heritage and moments worth celebrating

Carlos and Paulo can pick you up at your hotel in the Douro or one of the train stations (Pinhão/Régua). After booking, chat with them to arrange a meeting point.

Your evening is hosted by Carlos de Oliveira and Paulo Baptista — known for their thoughtful hospitality in the Douro. They’ll welcome you, facilitate logistics, and ensure seamless pacing throughout the night.

Inside the palace, a Foundation specialist guide (fluent in English, French, and German) offers private access to archive rooms, explains Nasoni’s architectural vision, and reveals stories seldom shared with public audiences. A private chef, dedicated solely to your table, crafts and serves each course with regional wine pairings — creating a celebration shaped entirely around you.

Spain

San Sebastián’s famed pastry culture blends French influence with Basque tradition, creating unique sweets. You’ll explore three distinct San Sebastián neighborhoods through their signature sweets. Your journey begins in Egia, where you’ll be introduced to the Basque language and culture, and even learn how to order coffee like a local.

Cross the river to the City Centre, an area developed in the late 19th century as the city expanded beyond its old walls. The final stop, the Old Town, is where bakeries and history converge. At Otaegui, founded in 1886, you’ll taste classic Basque pastries first created during the Spanish Civil War. Nearby, you’ll uncover how San Sebastián’s past as a Napoleonic fortress shaped daily life, including stories of soldiers, fountains, and the 1813 fire that nearly destroyed the city.

Throughout, you’ll hear how the Basque Country’s culinary heritage has been shaped by geography, history, and culture — from mountain traditions to coastal influences.

This experience features a curated selection of sweets, pastries, and cheeses, some chosen exclusively for Fernwayer. These additions represent a personal dimension, giving guests access to hidden gems cherished by Maider and Cristina. You’ll taste beyond the usual pintxos, and explore neighborhood streets often missed on tourist trails.

Along the way, you’ll learn why food carries such weight in Basque culture — how it shapes identity, community, and daily life. Each stop connects to deeper traditions, from mountain shepherding that shaped local cheeses to pastry recipes passed down through generations. These foods reflect not only flavor but also the resilience and identity of the Basque people.

Beyond pastries, you’ll stop for a cheese tasting at a traditional fromagerie and receive a rich treat from an artisanal chocolatier. By joining, you support long-standing local businesses and keep alive culinary traditions that have anchored San Sebastián for generations.

Private Food Tour in San Sebastian: Walk from Egia to Old Town, explore history & Basque sweets.

A History in Pastry and Cheese

Guided walking tour through three San Sebastián neighborhoods: Egia, City Centre, and the Old Town.

Cultural insights into Basque language, daily life, and history (including the 1813 fire and Napoleonic past).

Visits to historic bakeries and local sweet shops.

7 food stops with 10 tastings, including traditional Basque pastries and desserts, Regional caramels and cheese, Coffee or tea and Two glasses of local wine (or non-alcoholic options).

Bring a big appetite as there will a lot of sampling and tasting.
Wear comfortable shoes; you will be standing most of the time. It’s the Basque way! 
Try not to bring bulky back-bags or handbags. It’s less than 10 minutes walk between each stop. 
This tour can be wheelchair friendly, just let Maider know beforehand. 
If it looks cloudy, bring an umbrella.

Meeting location: Right outside ‘Taba café’ in the Tabakalera building, just across The Maria Cristina bridge (our favourite bridge in the city).

Cristina and Maider are two long term friends. Cristina was born in Mexico and came to San Sebastian to be a chef, while Maider was born and raised in the Basque Country. They bonded thanks to their love of food and its power to connect people and carry culture. San Sebastian is their home, and they are dedicated to sharing the magic of the city with visitors, one bite at a time. For their social impact food tours they collaborate solely with small family businesses which are as dedicated to local heritage and culinary traditions are they are. And with every food tour you purchase, Maider and her team donate the equivalent of a meal to the Zaporeak Kitchen project which cooks meals for refugees in Greece.

Morocco

This is a moderate 5.5-hour guided trek through diverse landscapes of Ouirgane Valley in the Atlas Mountains. Starting from the village of Marigha,, the trail ascends through terraced farmlands and pine forests to the village of Anraz. Here, you'll visit a modest yet historically significant Jewish synagogue, one of the few remaining in the region, reflecting the area's rich Jewish-Berber heritage. The journey continues through the serene village of Torort, offering insights into traditional Berber life and a glimpse into the villagers’ daily routine. 

A picnic lunch is enjoyed amidst this natural beauty, providing a moment to relax and absorb the surroundings. Along the way, you'll pass through groves of olives, almonds, walnuts, carob, apricots, and forests of willow, pine, larch, and juniper trees. The trek concludes as you return to Marigha, completing a loop that combines cultural exploration with the tranquility of the High Atlas landscape. 

This trek offers a rare glimpse into the intertwined histories of Jewish and Berber communities in the High Atlas Mountains. The synagogue in Anraz stands as a testament to a time when Jewish and Berber families lived side by side, sharing traditions and daily life. Your local guide, deeply familiar with the area's stories and families, enriches the experience with personal anecdotes and historical context. 

The trail itself meanders through landscapes that have remained largely untouched by modern development, allowing for an immersive experience into the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Depending on the time of day, you may see locals tending fields or transporting goods by mule.

This trek is best enjoyed in spring and winter to avoid the high temperatures. It's ideal for active travelers looking to explore the region’s natural beauty while gaining insight into its layered cultural heritage. It’s profound exploration of Morocco's multifaceted identity.

Hiking Trek of Ouirgane Valley near Marrakesh in Atlas Mountains with villages, forests, synagogue.

Ouirgane’s Valley of Stories

Guided trek through Ouirgane Valley in the Atlas Mountains.

Visit to a historic Jewish synagogue in the village of Anraz.

Traditional Moroccan lunch in a Berber village.

Bottled water provided throughout the hike.

All gratuities for guide and local hosts included.

Dress for mountain conditions: sturdy boots, waterproof jacket, warm layers, gloves, sun protection (hat, cream), fleece/anorak for winter

Refillable water bottle and day pack for essentials.

If you need a trekking pole, let Ahmed know in advance. Also inform him of any medical conditions or physical limitations.

Be prepared for altitude, and respect Berber customs in the villages you pass. 

Travelers should arrange their own travel insurance for peace of mind in case of illness or accident.

The meeting point in Ouirgane will be confirmed by Ahmed after the booking via Chat. 

The excursion begins in Ouirgane, about 1.5 hours by car from Marrakesh. If you’re staying in Marrakesh, Ourika, Asni or similar, please arrange round-trip transportation with your hotel.

An experienced guide well-versed in the region’s geography and the cultural nuances of the Berber communities. The guide offers not only navigational expertise but also insights into the local traditions and natural history of the area. They will ensure that you feel safe, welcomed, and well-informed.

Weather Safety Precaution: If the weather turns bad, Ahmed and his team may adjust the trek route to prioritize safety. Trek cancellations are rare and only occur in severe weather conditions, and only after all alternative routes for a similar experience have been evaluated. Your safety is always the top priority.

Tokyo is a city that reinvents itself in every light. Centuries of history unfold beside glowing screens and restless streets. This three-day journey moves through time and texture — from temples and textile ateliers to neon alleys and quiet shrines — revealing how the city’s rhythm shifts from reflection to motion. Guided by local storytellers, you’ll experience Tokyo through its architecture, artistry, and everyday encounters, finding a balance between discovery and moments to breathe and wander at your own pace.

DAY 1 – TOKYO THROUGH TIME | Begin your journey with a full-day guided tour tracing Tokyo’s evolution through centuries of change. From the Edo Castle grounds and ancient temples of Asakusa to the Western architecture of the Meiji era, the day reveals how each period has reshaped the city’s skyline and spirit. Along the Sumida River, the modern towers rise above preserved gardens where the rhythm of ritual endures. Between shrines and civic landmarks, you’ll see how Tokyo’s neighborhoods carry forward the legacy of power, renewal, and quiet resilience. A day that begins in stillness ends in movement, with time for a reflective walk or early evening meal near the water.

DAY 2 – FROM OLD STREETS TO MODERN DESIGN | The morning opens with a guided photo walk through one of Tokyo’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. In Disappearing Tokyo, photographer Lee Chapman leads you into alleys where Showa-era signs fade under new facades and locals pause for coffee or conversation. It’s an intimate portrait of a city in transition — fleeting, honest, and human. After a light meal and coffee break, continue into Ginza’s Architectural Icons, where journalist Toshiko Sakurai unravels the design stories behind Tokyo’s most polished district. Here, façades reflect light like art pieces and every corner reveals a conversation between history and innovation. The day bridges Tokyo’s two faces: the nostalgic and the refined.

DAY 3 – CRAFT AND CONTRAST | The final day begins quietly, inside the private home of kimono scholar Sheila Cliffe. In A Kimono Connoisseur’s Closet, you’ll step into a collection that tells Japan’s history in silk — patterns, textures, and techniques passed through generations. Surrounded by colors and fabric, the morning moves at a slower pace, connecting tradition with artistry. In the afternoon, join filmmaker Edgin Ticzon for Tokyo, Cut to Scene, a guided journey through the city’s cinematic layers. From forest shrines to the neon scramble of Shibuya, each stop plays out like a shift in light and rhythm. The day ends as the city comes alive — narrow streets glowing with paper lanterns, where conversations flow as easily as the evening breeze.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO | Stay in Shibuya if you want to be at the heart of the action — a lively hub of shopping, nightlife, and energy that defines modern Tokyo. Shinjuku is ideal for travelers who value convenience, with endless dining options and quick train links across the city. For a slower rhythm, Asakusa offers a glimpse of traditional Tokyo with temples and quiet streets, while Ginza brings sophistication, elegant hotels, and polished calm after dark. For a more local balance, Kichijōji sits just outside the center, combining creative cafés, green parks, and an easygoing neighborhood feel.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Japan

Cityscapes of Tokyo

3 days in Tokyo exploring temples, culture, neighborhoods, local food, architecture, and nightlife.

United States

This 5-day Rome itinerary is immersive and story-rich — an invitation to feel the rhythm of the city through architecture, rituals and everyday beauty. Designed for those who seek meaning behind the monuments, it blends ancient grandeur with intimate encounters, placing conversation, taste, and wonder at the heart of each day. You’ll walk through empires and gardens, learn from artists and artisans, and leave with a deeper sense of Rome’s timeless layers.

DAY 1 – FOUNDATIONS AND FIRST TASTES | Begin with Rome’s most iconic ruins: the Colosseum and Roman Forum, where arches and fragments still carry echoes of empire. Pause for a cozy lunch at Naumachia, then dive into Lazio wines with a guided tasting that celebrates native grape varieties. In the late afternoon, climb Capitoline Hill, one of Rome’s most symbolic spaces, and explore the Capitoline Museums, home to powerful statues and centuries of civic history. The day blends power, poetry and palate — your Roman senses officially awakened.

DAY 2 – MASTERS AND MUSEUMS | The morning begins inside the Doria Pamphilj Palace, where masterpieces by Caravaggio and Velázquez hang in hushed rooms. Enjoy a refined lunch at Tavola Bottiglieria before heading to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, where artistic and spiritual power converge. As golden hour sets in, join Quintessenza: a photo walk that winds through the city’s evening light, past Renaissance façades and local food stories.

DAY 3 – FLAVORS AND STREET LIFE | Start the day with a guided food walk through the historic center, tasting espresso, pastries and pizza al taglio while hearing stories behind each bite. In the afternoon, wander through Piazza Navona and admire its Baroque fountains before continuing to the Pantheon, where ancient engineering still inspires awe. From there, follow the city’s rhythm to the Trevi Fountain and finally to the Spanish Steps, observing the light, the movement and the elegance of this iconic Roman setting. End the evening at Piccolo Buco for a wood-fired pizza.

DAY 4 – FAITH, FLAVOR, AND CRAFT | Rise early for a walk through Rome’s lesser-known churches to admire starry ceilings and sacred architecture. Enjoy lunch at Babette, where French-Italian dishes meet artful surroundings and garden calm. After lunch, step into a historic palazzo to learn the art of gelato-making — yes, you’ll taste the results. End your evening with dinner at Aroma, a Michelin-starred and framed by the Colosseum in glowing light.

DAY 5 – CLOSING SCENES AND ILLUSIONS | Explore the Baths of Caracalla with a guide who reveals how politics and ritual unfolded in Rome’s grand bathhouses. Stop for lunch at Casina Valadier, nestled above the city in Villa Borghese park. Meander through the Galleria Nazionale, a treasure of modern art inside Belle Époque walls. In the afternoon, dive into sacred geometry and illusion on a tour of Jesuit Rome. End your trip with dinner at Il Barroccio, a welcoming osteria near the Pantheon known for Roman classics in a relaxed, rustic setting.

WHERE TO STAY IN ROME | For first-time visitors, Centro Storico offers proximity to major sites and a lively rhythm. Trastevere charms with cobbled streets, local eateries, and sunset views over the Tiber. Prati is quieter and elegant, perfect for Vatican access and spacious stays. For creative travelers, Monti blends bohemian cafés with ancient streets. Choose based on your pace — central for movement, local for depth, scenic for calm.

PLAN YOUR TRIP | At Fernwayer, we believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Rome, Layer By Layer

5 days in Rome exploring architecture, historical landmarks, food walks, wines, and gelato moments.

From ancient medinas to soaring mountain peaks, this 7-day itinerary in Morocco begins in the heart of Marrakesh and ends high in the Atlas Mountains. A full week of cultural contrasts, spiritual traditions and modern art, plus rooftop sunsets, hands-on cooking classes, vibrant souks and quiet trails. Each day balances immersive experiences with time to explore independently, inviting you to see Morocco through the eyes of artists, chefs, guides, and storytellers.

DAY 1 – MEDINA FOUNDATIONS & ROOFTOP VIEWS | Begin in the heart of the old city with The City of Seven Men, a walking tour that weaves together faith, folklore, and Moroccan tea in a local home. In the afternoon, visit Bahia Palace, where carved cedar and painted ceilings reflect Marrakesh’s opulent past. As the sun sets, join Skyline Stories of Marrakesh, a rooftop journey through a thousand years of history. End the night over dinner at Le Foundouk, with views to match the mood.

DAY 2 – FLAVORS & FAITH | Spend your day with Amanda’s Courtyard Kitchen, a warm and generous cooking class in a private home. In the late afternoon, explore the remains of El Badi Palace, once a symbol of Saadian grandeur. As evening falls, experience A Gathering of Sufi Presence—a powerful blend of Hadra music, spiritual storytelling, and traditional Moroccan cuisine. Wrap up with cocktails and city lights at Dardar Rooftop.

DAY 3 – ART & ATMOSPHERE IN GUELIZ | Today is centered in Gueliz, Marrakesh’s contemporary quarter. Begin with Conversation with an Artist, a curated visit to a local gallery and studio meetup. Then discover the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent at the museum, followed by a stroll through the vivid and peaceful Jardin Majorelle in the Psychedelic Mirage story. Pause for shopping, cafés, or a relaxed dinner at Al Fassia, a Gueliz institution run by women.

DAY 4 – HERITAGE & STORYTELLING | Dive deeper into Marrakesh’s medina with A Thousand and One Crafts, a private walk through its hidden workshops and time-honored techniques. In the afternoon, visit the Mouassine Music Museum and the Photography Museum, both offering quiet insight into Moroccan life and creativity. End the day with 1001 Stories in Marrakesh, an intimate evening of storytelling, music, and dinner. L’mida rooftop awaits to close the day with vibrant flavors and city lights.

DAY 5 – SWEETS & STILLNESS | Begin your day with a heartwarming class at Signs & Sweets, where deaf chefs guide you through the art of Moroccan pastry in a café that empowers and connects. In the afternoon, pause for renewal with a traditional hammam ritual—an invitation to slow down and reconnect. End the day with a sensory feast in one of Marrakesh’s most atmospheric restaurants.

DAYS 6–7 – INTO THE ATLAS | Leave the city behind for a two-day trek into the High Atlas Mountains. Your guide leads you from the village of Imlil toward the summit of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Along the way, you’ll pass Berber hamlets, alpine trails, and star-filled skies. Spend the night in a mountain refuge and descend the next day with the stillness of the mountains etched into your memory.

WHERE TO STAY IN MARRAKESH | Marrakesh offers a wide range of places to stay, but for a more immersive experience, choose a traditional riad tucked inside the Medina. These restored courtyard homes combine intimacy, beauty, and local hospitality — many just steps from the city’s main sites. For more space and calm, Gueliz and Hivernage offer boutique hotels and stylish guesthouses near gardens, cafés, and galleries. Or opt for a retreat on the city’s edge, where palm groves and desert light invite pause.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Marrakesh & the Atlas Way

7 days in Morocco from Marrakesh with an itinerary that blends medina life, culture and mountains.

This 7-day itinerary offers a deep and personal exploration of Lisbon and its surrounding landscapes—curated by architect, artist, and local guide Tiago Miranda Neiva. You’ll move between Lisbon, Mafra, Ericeira, Setúbal, Évora, and Alqueva, using Lisbon as your hub for the first five days before transitioning into the open spaces of Alentejo. Each experience reflects Tiago’s belief that Lisbon—and Portugal more broadly—reveals its truth only when you engage with it slowly, sensitively, and through all your senses.
✧ In Lisbon, you’ll begin with immersive walking tours of the historic center and the Alfama district, including a soulful evening of live Fado. You’ll explore lush botanical gardens, secret city vantage points, and meet with local elders to hear lived histories.
✧ In the Setúbal Peninsula, you’ll sip and savor the natural and culinary abundance of the region, from coastal wines to Arrábida’s dramatic cliffs.
✧ In Ericeira and Mafra, the focus shifts to surf, light, and rhythm—along with time to admire the monumental beauty of Mafra Palace.
✧ The final days take you east, into Évora, Monsaraz, and Alqueva—where you’ll find silence, sweeping views, and stories rooted in the Alentejo earth.
This itinerary balances movement and stillness, city and countryside, design and tradition. It's a route shaped not only by places, but by one person's deep relationship to them.
𝘛𝘪𝘢𝘨𝘰 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢 𝘕𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘢 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘣𝘰𝘯-𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦-𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺. 𝘏𝘦 𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦, 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘣𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘧𝘰𝘤𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴 𝘰𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥. 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘢 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺.
When asked about his love for Lisbon, Tiago’s enthusiasm is immediate: “I love my city! I really love the historic center of Lisbon!” Though he didn’t always feel that way. Growing up on the city’s outskirts, it wasn’t until returning after time abroad that he saw it anew. “It was as a young and independent adult with an arts and architecture degree, and with the enthusiasm to explore — that I realized how beautiful, diverse, and interesting my city is.”
For Tiago, connecting with a culture means full immersion. “You have to experience it with open eyes, heart, and mind,” he says. That means talking to locals, walking unfamiliar routes, listening more than looking. “Lisbon isn’t just to be seen, but touched, smelled, and tasted.” It’s not a checklist—it’s a presence.
He also names two challenges: First, Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods are deeply distinct—each like its own mini-city. “Lisbon is multidimensional. It cannot—and should not—be rushed.” Second, mass tourism threatens the local character he cherishes. Responsible travel, he says, is essential to preserve the culture.
As tourism evolves, Tiago points toward Lisbon’s under-known strengths. “Gastronomy, street art, tiles, contemporary architecture… there’s so much more to discover!”
𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Lisbon and the Roads Out

7-day itinerary in Portugal exploring history & culture in Lisbon, Mafra, Ericeira, Setúbal, Évora.

One day is never enough for a city as vast as Mexico City, but with the right guidance it can still feel complete. This curated journey is designed for travelers passing through with limited time who want to experience the pulse of the capital. From monumental plazas and layered histories in the heart of the city to an evening of food and stories in Polanco, it is a condensed but vivid portrait of Mexico City.
DAY 1 – HISTORIC CENTER AND POLANQUITO | Begin with a guided walking tour of the Historic Center, where colonial facades, modern landmarks, and grand murals trace the evolution of Mexico City. Your guide weaves together architecture, politics, and art to bring the city’s past and present into focus as you move through plazas, palaces, and hidden corners. After a short pause in the afternoon, the evening takes you north to Polanco for a guided food tour. Here you taste tacos, tortas, churros, and chocolates while exploring elegant streets that tell another side of the city’s story. It is the perfect balance of culture and cuisine, showing what makes Mexico City unforgettable in just one day.
WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY | If you are staying overnight, Centro Histórico puts you steps from plazas and landmarks, ideal for starting the day with ease. Roma and Condesa offer a creative base with leafy streets, cafés, and nightlife. Polanco is refined and stylish, perfect for ending the evening close to your dinner tour. Each neighborhood gives you comfort and convenience, even on a short stay.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

One Day in Mexico City

Fernwayer’s perfect one day in Mexico City moves from historic icons to Polanco’s flavors by night.

From the iconic Dubrovnik walls to the calm waters of Banje Beach, this three-day journey invites you to explore the city’s rich heritage and coastal beauty at your own pace. Walk through centuries of history, taste traditional Croatian food in atmospheric Old Town restaurants, and end your days with a golden boat ride in Dubrovnik’s shimmering bay.

DAY 1 – CITY WALLS AND FORTRESS | Begin your trip with a morning walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls. This 1.2-mile loop offers sweeping views over rooftops and sea, with countless photo moments along the way. For lunch, head to Proto Fish in the Old Town, known for its elegant terrace and fresh Adriatic seafood. In the afternoon, visit War Photo Limited, a striking gallery that documents human conflict through powerful photography. Continue to Lovrijenac Fortress, perched just outside the city walls, where stone stairs lead to panoramic views and centuries of defense history. In the evening, join a culinary walking tour led by locals. You’ll taste traditional dishes, hear family stories, and explore the city’s flavors through its oldest streets.

DAY 2 – BEACH, MOUNTAIN, AND SEA | Spend the morning at Banje Beach, just outside the Old Town gates. Swim in clear water, relax with a book, or simply take in the view of the city rising above the bay. After a midday break, make your way to Mount Srđ. Whether you hike or take the cable car, the view from the top is unforgettable, with wide horizons stretching over Dubrovnik and the coast. As the sun begins to set, step aboard a boat for a sunset cruise along the shoreline. The city glows behind you as the boat glides past islands and cliffs, closing the day on the water.

DAY 3 – MONASTIC AND BAROQUE HERITAGE | Start your day at the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries, two of Dubrovnik’s most historic sanctuaries. These calm, beautiful places are filled with carved cloisters, quiet chapels, and traces of centuries past. For lunch, walk to Konoba Kopun, a small square near the Jesuit steps where traditional Dalmatian recipes are served with care. In the afternoon, explore Dubrovnik Cathedral, a baroque landmark filled with light, then visit the Rector’s Palace, once the seat of power in the Republic of Ragusa. As your final experience, leave the city behind and visit Trsteno, a coastal village known for its historic gardens. A guided walk and picnic offer a quiet, green farewell to your time in Dubrovnik.

WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK | If you want to be in the heart of it all, stay inside the Old Town. It’s full of charm but also crowds and stairs. For more space and sea views, choose neighborhoods like Ploče or Lapad just outside the walls. Both offer easy access while giving you a peaceful place to rest.

PLAN YOUR TRIP | At Fernwayer, we believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Croatia

Stone, Sea, Story in Dubrovnik

3 days in Dubrovnik with Old Town walks, exploring Fort Lovrijenac, Croatian food, and Banje Beach.

In Kyoto, time slows down but never stands still. Over three days, this journey weaves together the city’s delicate layers — paper, stone, scent, and taste — to reveal a Japan of quiet mastery and daily grace. From handmade washi to temple gardens, from incense rituals to standing bars, you’ll see how centuries of craft and contemplation still shape life today. Each day balances guided encounters with moments to wander, leaving space for reflection and discovery in your own rhythm.

DAY 1 – PAPER AND PEOPLE | Begin in the calm of the Kyoto Botanical Gardens for Washi, The Texture of Kyoto, a guided tour led by craft researcher Emilie Even. You’ll trace the journey of handmade paper from plant to page, meeting artisans whose quiet skills hold a thousand years of continuity. In the evening, shift from tradition to conviviality with The Social World of Tachinomi, a bar-hopping experience that opens Kyoto’s after-dark culture. Guided by Eric Luong, you’ll stand shoulder-to-shoulder with locals, tasting small plates and sake in the city’s most authentic tachinomi bars — a reminder that craftsmanship lives as much in the art of conversation as in the handmade.

DAY 2 – STONE AND TEA | Head west to Arashiyama for The Kyoto of Small Things, a meditative cultural walk with Edgin Ticzon. Amid moss temples, folk sculptures, and family craft shops, you’ll feel Kyoto’s humility and humor, where beauty is found in imperfection and the stories of everyday life. In the late afternoon, join Eric Luong again for Zen & the Art of Tea in Kyoto, an encounter that begins at the Jotenkaku Museum and continues to a machiya townhouse for a private tea ceremony. Through art, ritual, and conversation, you’ll glimpse the profound simplicity at the heart of Zen.

DAY 3 – SCENT AND FLAVOR | Your final day explores the sensory traditions that define Kyoto’s refinement. Begin with Dashi: Japan’s Hidden Elixir led by Chef Toshihiko Yamamoto, a cooking experience revealing the delicate broth that anchors Japanese cuisine. In his intimate kitchen, you’ll prepare and taste your own dashi, discovering how one essence can hold centuries of culinary philosophy. In the afternoon, continue with The Kyoto Way of Kōdō & Chadō guided by Ayumi Ikushima — a dialogue between scent and tea, where incense, aroma, and taste merge into a single art form. It’s a graceful conclusion to Kyoto: a city that speaks softly through its senses.

WHERE TO STAY IN KYOTO | Stay in Higashiyama if you want to walk between temples and teahouses, wrapped in Kyoto’s historical calm. Choose Downtown or Kawaramachi for easy dining and transport connections after evening tours. For slower mornings and garden views, Arashiyama offers serenity at the city’s edge — a place where the rhythm of Kyoto still feels timeless.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Taste and Tradition in Kyoto

3 days in Kyoto exploring crafts, rituals, and cuisine rooted in centuries of flavor and tradition.

This is a stunning itinerary — a true slow-burn, full of history, nature, food, and texture. 

Sicily stretches between earth and sky—an island of contrast and continuity, where every hill, breeze, and coastline carries the weight of story. This seven-day itinerary moves with intention across that spectrum, from mountain to monastery, vineyard to volcano, cathedral to coast. It begins in Palermo, where gold mosaics shimmer inside Monreale Cathedral and narrow streets echo with centuries of layered life.

From there, the journey leads west to Erice, where mist clings to medieval towers, then down to the Zingaro Reserve—where cliffs and coves open up to the sea. In Marsala, you’ll encounter a different kind of landscape: windmills, salt flats, and the crisp, mineral pull of local wine. These aren’t stops—they're textures in a deeper conversation with place.

Midweek, you shift eastward, through Agrigento’s ancient Greek temples and the baroque turns of Ragusa and Modica. A cooking class in the countryside offers something slower: olive oil, family knowledge, and time shared under trees. Siracusa invites further stillness, with Ortigia’s quiet beauty and Marzamemi’s soft, seaside rhythm.

The final stretch leads upward—to Mount Etna, where Sicily’s volcanic heart breathes in silence and smoke. From there, a descent into Taormina for one last night: open-air theater, coastal views, and a closing meal with the city lit behind you.

𝐴𝘵 𝘍𝑒𝘳𝑛𝘸𝑎𝘺𝑒𝘳, 𝑒𝘢𝑐𝘩 𝘥𝑎𝘺 𝘪𝑠 𝑎𝘯𝑐𝘩𝑜𝘳𝑒𝘥 𝘪𝑛 𝑎 𝑔𝘶𝑖𝘥𝑒𝘥 𝘦𝑥𝘱𝑒𝘳𝑖𝘦𝑛𝘤𝑒, 𝘸𝑖𝘵ℎ 𝑠𝘱𝑎𝘤𝑒 𝑓𝘰𝑟 𝑠𝘦𝑙𝘧-𝘭𝑒𝘥 𝘦𝑥𝘱𝑙𝘰𝑟𝘢𝑡𝘪𝑜𝘯. 𝑌𝘰𝑢 𝑐𝘢𝑛 𝑏𝘰𝑜𝘬 𝘦𝑥𝘱𝑒𝘳𝑖𝘦𝑛𝘤𝑒𝘴 𝘥𝑖𝘳𝑒𝘤𝑡𝘭𝑦 𝑓𝘳𝑜𝘮 𝘵ℎ𝘦 𝘪𝑡𝘪𝑛𝘦𝑟𝘢𝑟𝘺 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘢𝑟𝘳𝑎𝘯𝑔𝘦 𝘺𝑜𝘶𝑟 𝑜𝘸𝑛 ℎ𝘰𝑡𝘦𝑙𝘴 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘳𝑒𝘴𝑡𝘢𝑢𝘳𝑎𝘯𝑡𝘴. 𝐷𝘰𝑤𝘯𝑙𝘰𝑎𝘥 𝘵ℎ𝘦 𝘍𝑒𝘳𝑛𝘸𝑎𝘺𝑒𝘳 𝘪𝑂𝘚 𝘢𝑝𝘱 𝘵𝑜 𝑒𝘥𝑖𝘵 𝘺𝑜𝘶𝑟 𝑡𝘳𝑖𝘱 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘮𝑎𝘬𝑒 𝑖𝘵 𝘺𝑜𝘶𝑟 𝑜𝘸𝑛.

Sicily, Between Earth and Sky

7-day itinerary in Sicily with hilltop towns, salt wind, temple ruins, vineyard lunch, volcano views

A rhythm of sand, salt, and sky unfolds across three elemental days in the Atacama Desert. This journey takes you from grounded, hands-on moments to vast desert panoramas — from the intimacy of a ceramics workshop to the stillness of floating lagoons and the dazzling clarity of the high-altitude night. Designed for travelers drawn to light, texture, and time, it pairs immersive photography with meditative moments of pause. You’ll begin slowly, then ascend into the surreal landscapes of the altiplano before closing among geysers, wetlands, and warm springs.
DAY 1 – CLAY, FLOATING, AND STARS | The journey begins gently in the Salt Mountain Range, where you’ll be welcomed into the adobe studio of a local ceramic artist. Using a clay unique to the region, shaped by ancestral Licarantai traditions, you’ll create your own piece while learning how reverence for Pachamama lives on through craft. In the afternoon, take time on your own to visit nearby Laguna Cejar — a salt-rich lagoon where the water suspends you weightlessly in its mineral grip.
DAY 2 – FLAMINGOS AND THE ALTIPLANO | Wake early to head deep into the Chilean altiplano. This is a day of altitude and scale, where pastel lagoons stretch beneath volcanoes and flamingos lift off from mirror-still water. As you travel across remote salt flats and highland valleys, your guide helps shape the light into story through photography. There’s time to pause, to breathe thinner air, to notice shadow and color shift by the hour. After returning to town, the evening invites rest and reflection after a day spent far above sea level.
DAY 3 – GEYSERS AND WATERS | Before sunrise, set out north toward El Tatio, where steam rises from the earth in silence. As the first light filters across the geysers, capture the raw power of fire meeting water at 4,000 meters. Descend slowly through villages and wetlands, where llamas and flamingos move between grasses and mineral pools. The day ends in thermal springs tucked inside a desert canyon. Let your body ease back into warmth as your time in the Atacama comes to a close.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA | Most travelers base themselves in San Pedro, a walkable adobe town that serves as the region’s gateway. For easy access to experiences, stay near the center where pickups and drop-offs are seamless. If you prefer quiet evenings, choose a boutique lodge just outside the plaza. Accommodations range from rustic guesthouses to high-end eco-hotels, many designed with local materials and open-air courtyards perfect for desert stargazing.
GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO ARRIVE | The desert rewards those who arrive slowly. Because much of this journey takes place at altitude, we recommend arriving in San Pedro at least one or two days before your first experience. This extra time helps you adjust to the dry air, shifting light, and elevation changes that define the Atacama. It also offers space to settle into the desert’s rhythm — walk the quiet streets, explore the artisan market, and watch the color drain from the sky in the evenings. Let the landscape meet you gradually.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Chile

Sand, Salt & Stars in Atacama

3 days in the Atacama Desert exploring clay, salt flats, flamingos, stars, geysers, and springs.

Over seven days, Buenos Aires greets you with ritual, rhythm, and grand facades before the road opens west to Mendoza and the Andes. This week balances guided encounters with space to breathe. You will taste the city in markets and kitchens, learn its stories in theaters and cemeteries, and feel its pulse in a milonga. Then the mountains take over with horseback trails at sunset, fireside asado, wine in the thin air, and time with artisans who keep tradition in their hands.
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL, MATE, MILONGA | Arrive early or the day before so the city can settle around you. In the afternoon, a guided tasting introduces the ritual of mate with a local host, including high-quality blends and traditional biscuits that frame the story and etiquette. After a short pause, the evening unfolds inside a real milonga with a professional dancer who explains the codes and ronda. You may join a dance or simply observe with a glass of wine.
DAY 2 – PALERMO AND CORRIENTES | Late morning brings a guided food walk in Palermo Soho that moves between bakeries, markets, and grills for classics like empanadas, choripán, and steak cuts, paced like a seven-course meal. Rest in the afternoon or wander the plazas. In the evening, a guided walk along Avenida Corrientes ties together theaters, beloved bookstores, and café culture, with simple tastings that carry the street’s late-night spirit.
DAY 3 – BELLE ÉPOQUE AND EMPANADAS | Begin with a guided architecture walk that links Belle Époque façades on Avenida de Mayo, the symbolism of Palacio Barolo, and a pause in a period café before finishing near Teatro Colón. It is history told in stone and light. Later, join a hands-on empanada class in a local home, rolling and folding before sharing wine and dessert.
DAY 4 – LA BOCA AND SAN TELMO | A guided photography tour leads you through La Boca’s color and San Telmo’s market streets at an unhurried pace. Your photographer helps with timing and composition so scenes and stories fall into place, whether you carry a camera or a phone. After lunch, head to the airport for an afternoon or evening flight to Mendoza.
DAY 5 – ANDES SUNSET RIDE | Keep the day open until the mountains call. In the late afternoon you are collected in Mendoza city for a guided horseback ride with gauchos, timed to the soft light of sunset. Afterward, gather by the bonfire for an asado with salads, fresh bread, and local wine, often set to live guitar. Return to town with stars above and woodsmoke on your clothes.
DAY 6 – HIGH-ALTITUDE ASADO DAY TRIP | Set out on a guided full-day trip into the Andes with a stop for local treats and mate before a scenic viewpoint over the Uspallata valley. Continue to a high-altitude estancia for an open-fire asado paired with wines and stories about the ritual’s meaning. There is time to taste, to learn, and to take photographs with guidance from your host. Expect a generous day before the easy descent back to Mendoza.
DAY 7 – ARTISANS OF MENDOZA | Spend the morning on a guided visit focused on handmade work at Mendoza’s artisan market, meeting makers of gaucho leather, textiles, and fine crafts. Your guide helps with context and conversation, and may include a short stop at city boutiques for additional pieces. Choose something meaningful to carry home. Fly back to Buenos Aires in the afternoon for a final night or connect onward if timing allows.
WHERE TO STAY IN BUENOS AIRES AND MENDOZA | In Buenos Aires, Palermo suits walkers who want cafés, galleries, and late meals nearby. Recoleta feels elegant and central, good for quieter nights and classic architecture. San Telmo places you near markets and milongas with a short ride to the center. In Mendoza, stay in the City Center for easy departures and lively evenings, or choose Chacras de Coria and Luján de Cuyo for vineyard air and slower mornings.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | Book directly from the itinerary and choose your own hotels and restaurants. Download the iOS app to make the journey your own.

Argentina

Tango to Andes in Argentina

7 days in Argentina: Buenos Aires to Mendoza with tango nights, wine, mate and asado in the Andes.

Athens is a place where ancient history and everyday life meet at every corner. From marble ruins to modern murals, the city is layered with memory, myth, and movement. This three-day itinerary invites you to experience Athens not as a checklist of monuments, but as a living conversation between past and present. Through guided encounters, sensory discoveries, and sacred pauses, each day opens a different door to the city’s many lives.

DAY 1 – HISTORY IN GRAFFITI AND STONE | Begin in Kerameikos, Gazi, and Psyrri, where the streets pulse with creativity and protest. The Urban Canvas of Athens takes you through layers of mural, message, and meaning, ending with a hands-on workshop and a piece of your own to carry home. Then head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art to explore bold works that question the narratives of history. End the day at the Acropolis, but from a different angle: walking the lesser-seen paths of the hill that shaped the Western world. As the sun sets, dine at Point A with the Parthenon glowing above.

DAY 2 – MEALS, HILLS, AND MOONLIGHT | Start your morning at the Varvakeios Market for a cooking class with a Greek local, learning to craft gyros and taste your way through spices, olives, and cheese. After lunch, wander through the hidden village of Anafiotika and climb Filopappou Hill for sweeping views of the city. Let the evening unfold with Under the Athenian Sky, an open-air cinema experience filled with conversation, food, and the quiet glow of Athens by night.

DAY 3 – RITUALS AND REVERENCE | Your final day brings you into rhythm with something older. In Ilioupoli, Cultivating Gratitude offers a guided ritual rooted in Demeter’s myth, the harvest, and the practice of reflection. Later, pause in the shade of the National Garden and witness the changing of the guards at Syntagma Square. End in Piraeus with Rebetiko, Red Lights, and the echo of old sailor songs. Between bites and melodies, you’ll feel the weight of memory, celebration, and time.

This journey is not about rushing ruins. It’s a curated immersion, shaped by texture, taste, silence, and spark. You’ll leave Athens not just with photos, but with a piece of the city imprinted on your pace, your palate, and your way of seeing. Three days in Athens. One city. Countless echoes.

WHERE TO STAY IN ATHENS | When it comes to where to stay, Athens offers neighborhoods for every travel style. Plaka is charming and close to ancient sites, while Psyrri and Exarchia are full of life, street art, and cafés. For a quieter stay with Acropolis views, Koukaki is a great base. And if you’re looking for sea breeze and space, consider Piraeus for a local feel near the coast. Choose what fits your rhythm.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Athens in Three Acts

3 days in Athens exploring art, cuisine, the acropolis of Athens, Greek traditions, and rebetiko.

Few cities offer so much color, culture, and character in just three days. This 3-day journey invites you into the textures of Valparaíso, from its murals and flavors to its rhythms and views. With a thoughtful mix of guided encounters and unhurried moments, it is designed for travelers who value creativity, connection, and depth.
DAY 1 – STREET ART AND CERAMICS | The day begins with a guided street art walk that weaves together mural stories, cultural memory, and local tastings. From bold facades to vibrant flavors, you explore the city’s history through both image and palate. In the afternoon, take time to rest or explore the viewpoints of Cerro Alegre before heading to Concón. There, a ceramic workshop invites you to create your own lucky clay pig in a bright studio facing the coast. After the session, stay for a seafood dinner by the ocean and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this quiet beach town.
DAY 2 – COOKING AND CITY SPACES | Spend the morning in the kitchen of a local chef learning traditional South American recipes in an engaging cooking class. After the shared meal, continue the day with a guided architecture walk through ten public spaces shaped by Valparaíso’s unique topography and social rhythms. From plazas and staircases to hillside viewpoints, the tour brings the city’s built environment into focus through design, memory, and daily use. Together, the experiences offer an intimate look at how people live, gather, and create in this layered urban landscape.
DAY 3 – PHOTOS AND FLAVORS BY NIGHT | Start your final day with a photography walk in Playa Ancha led by a local artist. The session offers both visual guidance and personal stories as you capture the neighborhood’s layered textures and views. After a break, close the journey with a guided golden-hour experience through Valparaíso’s bars and gathering spots. As day fades into evening, conversation, music and movement bring the spirit of the city to life one last time.
WHERE TO STAY IN VALPARAÍSO | Choose Cerro Alegre or Cerro Concepción for easy access to morning walks, cafes, street art, and guided tours. These central hills are where most travelers stay and offer a safe, vibrant atmosphere. For a quieter rhythm with a more local feel, Playa Ancha offers charm and calm just a short ride from the center.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Art to Coast in Valparaíso

3 days in Valparaíso blending street art, food, architecture, and coastal craft with local guides.

The Valencia Cathedral is very beautiful place to visit.
It was consecrated in 1238 by the first bishop of Valencia after the Reconquista, Pere d'Albalat.
The picture was taken by me on 🎞 film camera olimpus om 10, Kodak Ektachrome 100.

Valencia Cathedral

Georgia

The Ca' d'Oro, a jewel on Venice's Grand Canal, is renowned for its lacy Gothic facade. Originally adorned in gold-leaf, this 15th-century masterpiece, also known as Palazzo Santa Sofia, has a rich history and houses a vast collection of art. Gifted to Venice by Baron Franchetti, this palace is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. Top reasons to visit:

1: This palace, famed for its Venetian Gothic architecture, stands out for its intricate design and historical significance, harking back to a time of grandeur and artistic splendor on the Grand Canal​​.

2: Built for the powerful Contarini family, Ca' d'Oro houses a collection that includes bronzes, tapestries, and significant artworks like Titian's "Venus with a Mirror" and Mantegna's "St Sebastian", a testament to Venice's rich artistic heritage​​​​.

3: Baron Franchetti's contribution to Venice included not only the Ca' d'Oro itself but also his remarkable collection of art, much of which was reclaimed from Napoleon's conquests. This collection highlights the cultural depth and diversity of Venetian art​​.

4: The Ca' d'Oro's double-decker loggie offer breathtaking views of the Grand Canal, framed by Gothic arcades. The museum also plays a vital role in the conservation and restoration of art, ensuring the preservation of these cultural treasures for future generations​​.

For details on visiting and tickets, including a combined ticket option with Palazzo Grimani, visit Ca' d'Oro - Galleria Giorgio Franchetti. 

Photo by Il Giornale dell'Arte

The Ca' d'Oro: Golden Legacy

Giara di Gesturi, located in central Sardinia, is a high basalt plateau known for its unique landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural significance. This natural wonder is a haven for nature enthusiasts and is famously home to the Giara wild horses, a rare and ancient breed that roams freely across the plateau. With its tranquil atmosphere, scenic trails, and fascinating wildlife, Giara di Gesturi offers an immersive experience into Sardinia’s natural heritage. 
1. The wild Giara horses are the plateau’s most iconic residents. These small, hardy horses are believed to have lived here for centuries, making them a symbol of Sardinia’s untamed beauty. 
2. The plateau’s unique terrain includes pools (paulis) that form during the rainy season, creating a vital water source for the local flora and fauna. 
3. Rich biodiversity thrives here, with endemic plants, vibrant wildflowers, and various bird species, including hawks and owls, offering a paradise for wildlife lovers and photographers. 
4. Walking trails and paths across the rugged, volcanic landscape provide a serene environment for hikers, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. 
5. The area is steeped in history, with nearby Nuragic sites, including ancient stone towers and ruins, reflecting Sardinia’s prehistoric past. 
Visitor Tip: Plan to spend 2–3 hours exploring Giara di Gesturi. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water and snacks, and visit during spring or autumn for mild weather and vibrant scenery. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the plateau’s ecology and history. 
Photo: Fabiano Goreme Caddeo

Giara di Gesturi

The Wine Museum Koutsoyannopoulos, located in Vothonas village, is a fascinating underground museum that tells the story of Santorini’s rich winemaking heritage. Set in a natural cave eight meters below ground and stretching 300 meters long, this family-run museum offers a unique journey through the history, culture, and traditions of winemaking on the island. It’s an immersive experience perfect for wine lovers and anyone curious about Santorini’s unique volcanic terroir. 
1. The underground museum takes visitors through a series of exhibits showcasing winemaking equipment, tools, and scenes from the daily lives of Santorini’s vintners from the 17th to 20th centuries. 
2. Life-sized dioramas and audio guides (available in multiple languages) bring the history of winemaking to life, with engaging stories and vivid details. 
3. A highlight of the visit is the wine tasting session, where you can sample four local wines, including the island’s famous Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, crafted by the Koutsoyannopoulos family winery. 
4. The museum provides insight into the unique challenges of volcanic wine production, showcasing how Santorini’s harsh environment has shaped its winemaking techniques and traditions. 
5. The on-site shop offers an excellent selection of Santorini wines and souvenirs for wine enthusiasts to take home. 
Visitor Tip: Plan to spend 1–1.5 hours exploring the museum and enjoying the wine tasting. Visit during midday to escape the heat, and consider booking your visit in advance during peak tourist season. 
Photo: Antonio Gravante

Santorini Wine Museum

Preveli Beach is a hidden gem where a river meets the sea, surrounded by a lush palm forest and dramatic cliffs. This unique beach, located at the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, offers a perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation.
1. A hike through the scenic Kourtaliotiko Gorge leads to the beach, adding a sense of adventure.
2. The freshwater river flows through the palm forest, creating an exotic setting.
3. Visitors can swim in both the river and the crystal-clear sea.
4. The beach’s remote location ensures a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere.
5. Stunning views from the hiking trail make it a must-visit for photographers.

Visitor Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the hike, and pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited.  Photo: Panteris Antonio

Preveli Beach and Palm Forest

Castel Sant'Angelo, standing on the banks of the Tiber River, near the Vatican, is a fortress of history and art. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum in 123 AD, it has transformed through the ages, serving as a fortress, papal residence, and prison. Today, it is a museum that captures Rome's layered history. Top 4 reasons to visit:
 
1 - Historical Evolution: Castel Sant'Angelo's journey from a mausoleum to a fortress encapsulates Rome's tumultuous history. The massive cylindrical structure, initially covered in white marble, now showcases Roman and medieval architectural styles. 

2 - Papal Residences: During the Renaissance, the castle underwent significant renovations. The Papal residences, including the Sala Paolina decorated by Pietro da Cortona, exemplify Baroque artistry. The fortress also served as a haven for popes, with the Passetto di Borgo serving as an escape route during sieges.

3 - Museum Treasures: As a museum, Castel Sant'Angelo houses an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and historical relics. The art collection includes works donated by private collectors and pieces from the Renaissance period. The Papal Apartments, furnished with authentic historical pieces, offer a glimpse into the life of Renaissance popes.


4 - Archangel Michael and Passetto di Borgo: The roof of the castle features the iconic statue of Archangel Michael, symbolizing the castle's renaming following a divine vision. The Passetto di Borgo, an elevated corridor linking the castle to the Vatican, is a testament to the Papacy's resilience and strategic importance.

Tickets for Castel Sant'Angelo can be purchased online or on-site at castelsantangelo.com/.

Photo by Vinitaa Jayson

Castel Sant'Angelo

La Mamounia Gardens are a lush and tranquil oasis, blending natural beauty with elegant design, showcasing the best of Marrakesh's horticultural artistry and serene landscapes. These historic gardens, part of the luxurious La Mamounia Hotel, offer visitors a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Don't miss these must-see highlights:

1 - Wander through 20 acres of meticulously manicured gardens featuring a stunning array of plants, from ancient olive trees and towering palms to vibrant flowerbeds and fragrant orange blossoms. Each path leads to new vistas of natural beauty.

2 - The gardens date back to the 18th century, originally created as a gift to Prince Moulay Mamoun. Their rich history is woven into the design, reflecting traditional Moroccan gardening techniques and the influence of Islamic art and architecture.

3 - Admire the elegant fountains, charming pergolas, and serene ponds that dot the gardens. These design elements enhance the tranquil atmosphere, creating perfect spots for relaxation and reflection amidst the greenery.

4 - Throughout the year, the gardens showcase a variety of seasonal blooms and exotic plants. From the vibrant colors of spring flowers to the lush greenery of summer, each season offers a unique and captivating experience.

To fully appreciate the beauty of La Mamounia Gardens, consider taking a leisurely stroll in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the atmosphere is particularly serene. If you're a guest at La Mamounia Hotel, you can enjoy exclusive access to the gardens. Find more information on visiting and enjoying La Mamounia Gardens here: mamounia.com.

La Mamounia Gardens

Lagos, Portugal, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. Known for its role in Portugal’s Age of Discovery, Lagos boasts a rich history seen in its cobbled streets, ancient city walls, and beautifully preserved architecture. 

Highlights:

1. Wander through narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings, colorful tiles, and decorative iron balconies. Key landmarks include the 16th-century Fortress of Ponta da Bandeira and the Church of Saint Anthony.

2. Visit one of Europe’s first slave markets, now a small museum (Mercado de Escravos) offering insight into Lagos’s role in the 15th-century Atlantic slave trade. Exhibits provide historical context, fostering awareness of this period’s lasting impact.

3. The city center is a canvas of local art. Vibrant murals, sculptures, and galleries showcase works by contemporary Portuguese artists, celebrating the creativity and spirit of Lagos. Don’t miss the LAC – Laboratório de Actividades Criativas, an arts center in a former prison.

4. Enjoy a meal at one of the city’s many cafes and restaurants. Sample regional specialties like fresh seafood, grilled sardines, and the Algarve’s famous cataplana stew. For a sweet treat, try Dom Rodrigo, a local dessert made of egg yolks and sugar wrapped in delicate foil.

5. Visit the lively square which is the beating heart of Lagos, filled with cafes, street musicians, and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs. Sit back with a coffee or local wine and enjoy the sights and sounds as people pass by.

6. Lagos offers unique shopping opportunities, from handmade jewelry and ceramics to cork products and local wines. Small shops and markets scattered around the city center allow visitors to bring home authentic Portuguese keepsakes.

A rich mix of history, art, and gastronomy, a stroll through Lagos’s city center is a cultural journey. 

Photo: Kirk Fisher

Center of Lagos

Buenos Aires is one of the southernmost capitals in the world and also an exciting city. Although there are many ways to explore Argentine city life, biking is the most fun.

Biking is free in Buenos Aires, at least for a few hours. Using an app I downloaded to my phone, I spent the next few days biking around the Botanical Gardens, the best museums, art galleries, El Caminito, the riverfront, and the city's largest flea market (on weekends only!). While you’re at it, you can also visit one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world in Recoleta.

The bike paths are well developed, and if you follow the signs, you'll find the main points quickly. Be careful, helmets are not available. If you want to be on the safe side, rent one in one of the bike rentals.

Cycling through Buenos Aires

Colombia

Azerbaijan

Amazing winter views from one of the restaraunts on the Quba-Qechresh way, surrounded by forest and a river nearby

Quba-Qechresh in Winter

Antalya, Turkey, is home to Lara Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand along the Mediterranean coast, known for its crystal-clear waters, luxury resorts, and family-friendly atmosphere. Just a short distance from the city center, this Blue Flag beach is one of the best places to swim, relax, and enjoy beachside dining. Adding to its unique appeal is Sandland, an open-air museum featuring massive sand sculptures created by international artists, making it a must-visit spot for art lovers and photographers.

1. Long, sandy shoreline with warm Mediterranean waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities.

2. Sandland, an annual International Sand Sculpture Festival, features stunning life-sized and larger-than-life sculptures inspired by mythology, history, and famous landmarks.

3. A variety of beachfront cafés, bars, and restaurants offer Turkish and international cuisine, with stunning sea views.

4. Water sports and activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides, add adventure to your beach day.

5. Luxury resorts and beach clubs provide comfortable lounge areas, pools, and entertainment for those looking for an upscale beach experience.

Visitor Tip: Visit Sandland in the evening to see the sculptures illuminated under colorful lights. If you're looking for a quieter beach experience, head to the eastern end of Lara Beach, away from the main resort area.

Photo: Nick Karvounis

Lara Beach & Sandland

Tarragona, located along Catalonia’s coast, is a city steeped in history and known for its Roman heritage. From well-preserved ruins to medieval alleyways, it offers a fascinating journey through time combined with beautiful seaside views.
1. The Roman Amphitheater, overlooking the Mediterranean, is a must-see landmark.
2. Stroll through the Old Town, where medieval walls and cobblestone streets transport you to another era.
3. The Tarragona Cathedral showcases a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles.
4. The Archaeological Museum offers a deep dive into the city’s Roman past.
5. The Balcó del Mediterrani viewpoint provides sweeping views of the coastline.

Visitor Tip: Combine your visit with lunch at a seaside restaurant to enjoy Tarragona’s fresh seafood dishes.

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