Featured Destinations

We’ve selected a handful of destinations and brought everything together in one place — flights, accommodation, experiences and our “How to Do It” tips — making trip planning simpler from the very beginning. Each featured destination has been chosen because it offers something different, from island escapes and winter sun to cultural adventures and bucket-list experiences.

✈️ Copenhagen, Denmark

Why We Picked It

Copenhagen combines colourful canals, historic architecture and Scandinavian design with a relaxed approach to city life. Beyond Nyhavn and Tivoli Gardens, you’ll find creative neighbourhoods, waterfront swimming spots and inviting cafés.

It’s an excellent city for exploring at your own pace, whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or enjoying its Christmas atmosphere.

Planning your first visit? Our Copenhagen City Break Guide brings together the city’s highlights, neighbourhoods and practical tips to help you make the most of your stay.

Who it’s best for

City break lovers • Couples • Food enthusiasts • Architecture lovers • Culture seekers • Independent travellers • Christmas market visitors

Fun fact

Copenhagen has a mountain made from a power station! CopenHill is a waste-to-energy plant with a recreational rooftop. Its sloping roof has an artificial ski slope, hiking trails and a climbing wall on the building’s exterior.

Air-Holiday Insight

Explore Copenhagen from the water, but look beyond the usual canal cruise.

The city’s harbour buses are part of the public transport network. They offer a different perspective of the waterfront while taking you between useful stops.

Combine a harbour bus journey with a walk around Christianshavn or the harbourfront. It’s a lovely way to experience the city without spending the whole day sightseeing on foot.

Worth Knowing Before You Book

  • Copenhagen is relatively expensive, particularly for accommodation and dining. Staying slightly outside the historic centre can offer better value without making sightseeing difficult.
  • The Metro connects Copenhagen Airport with the city centre in around 15 minutes. Most visitors won’t need a hire car.
  • If Tivoli Gardens is a priority, check its opening calendar before choosing your dates. It operates seasonal programmes rather than opening every day throughout the year.
  • Pack comfortable shoes and a waterproof layer. Copenhagen is wonderful for walking, but its waterfront can feel surprisingly chilly.

Quick Snapshot

  • Best for: City breaks, culture, food and neighbourhood exploring
  • Flight time from London: Around 1 hour 50 minutes–2 hours direct
  • Recommended stay: 3–4 days
  • Best months: September & December
  • Atmosphere: Colourful, creative and relaxed

✈️ Plan & Book Your Trip

Airport: Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is the main gateway to the city. The Metro connects the airport with central Copenhagen in around 15 minutes, making arrival straightforward without needing a private transfer.

Travelling by train: Copenhagen can be reached from the UK by rail, starting with Eurostar and continuing through mainland Europe. Allow plenty of time for connections and consider breaking the journey with an overnight stay in Germany. Explore Eurostar options.

Suggested travel months

September & December

September is ideal for exploring Copenhagen on foot, enjoying its waterfront and discovering neighbourhoods such as Vesterbro and Nørrebro.

December offers a completely different experience. Christmas markets, festive lights and Tivoli Gardens’ seasonal celebrations bring a cosy atmosphere to the city. Check individual market dates, as some finish before Christmas. View our Christmas Markets guide for Copenhagen for more.

Trip length tip

Three nights work well for Copenhagen’s main attractions and a little neighbourhood exploring. Four nights allow time for a slower pace, museums or a day trip beyond the city.

Planning tip

Check Tivoli Gardens’ opening calendar before booking your flights. The gardens operate seasonal programmes, so visiting Copenhagen doesn’t automatically mean Tivoli will be open.

If you’re travelling in December, check Christmas market dates too. They don’t all run for the same period.

Booking insight

Copenhagen has direct flights from several UK airports, but compare the total cost rather than the headline fare. Baggage charges and flight times can make a difference, particularly for a short break.

Our own Flights page includes seasonal flight ideas, travel inspiration and current flight offers to help you start planning your trip.

Start planning your flights

Check current routes, travel dates and seasonal flight offers before booking.

Choosing the right neighbourhood can make a big difference to your Copenhagen city break. The centre is compact, but staying near a Metro station gives you more freedom to explore without relying on taxis.

🏨 Hotels

Best for: Short city breaks, couples, first-time visitors and travellers who want restaurants and attractions within easy reach.

Best areas to filter by:

Indre By (City Centre) – Ideal for first-time visitors, with major attractions, shopping streets and Nyhavn within walking distance.

Vesterbro – A lively neighbourhood with independent restaurants, cafés and easy access to Copenhagen Central Station.

Christianshavn – Pretty canals, historic streets and a quieter atmosphere, with convenient Metro connections.

Østerbro – A more relaxed residential neighbourhood, with parks, local cafés and access to the waterfront.

When to book: Reserve early for summer weekends and December stays, particularly if you want a central hotel close to Tivoli Gardens or the Christmas markets.

🏡 Self-Catering

Best for: Families, longer city breaks, groups and travellers who prefer extra space or the flexibility of preparing some meals.

Best areas to filter by:

Nørrebro – Independent cafés, interesting shops and a lively local atmosphere away from the busiest tourist streets.

Vesterbro – A good choice for travellers who enjoy eating out and exploring neighbourhoods on foot.

Frederiksberg – Leafy streets, parks and a more residential setting, with convenient transport connections.

Amagerbro – A practical alternative to the centre, with Metro access and opportunities to explore the nearby waterfront.

When to book: Start early for larger apartments and December weekends. Check whether cleaning fees, linen and local accommodation charges are included in the total price.

Explore Copenhagen’s colourful Nyhavn waterfront, enjoy Tivoli Gardens or discover the city’s royal palaces and historic streets. For something different, visit CopenHill, where a ski slope sits on top of a working power station.

A canal cruise offers a lovely perspective of the city, while food tours and guided walks reveal more of its neighbourhoods.

Visiting in December? Our Copenhagen Christmas Markets Guide will help you plan your festive break.

Copenhagen’s excellent public transport makes exploring easy, while private transfers can be useful for travellers with extra luggage or specific accessibility needs.

  • Airport transfers: Copenhagen Airport is around 15 minutes from the city centre by Metro. For a door-to-door journey, compare private airport transfers, particularly if travelling with children or heavy luggage.
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing: Explore Copenhagen’s main attractions at your own pace, with stops near Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid. Some tickets also include a canal cruise, so check what’s included before booking. Compare Copenhagen Hop-On Hop-Off Tours.
  • Airport extras: Compare UK airport parking, hotels, lounges and fast track before departure.
  • Travel insurance: Compare travel insurance covering medical expenses, cancellation and your planned activities.
  • Luggage storage: Arriving early or departing late? Check Bounce luggage storage to enjoy Copenhagen without carrying your bags.
  • Public transport & sightseeing passes: Copenhagen’s Metro, buses and trains make exploring straightforward. If you’re visiting several paid attractions, consider a Copenhagen Card, which can combine sightseeing and transport. Compare the total cost with individual tickets before booking.

When it’s worth it: Most visitors won’t need a car in Copenhagen. The Metro, buses and trains make exploring easy, while city-centre parking can be expensive.

Consider hiring a car if you’re planning to explore beyond the city, particularly the Danish countryside or coastal areas. For a day trip to places such as Helsingør, compare driving with the train before booking.

Our Car Hire page covers essential information, driving tips and what to compare before booking.

Best package style: Flight + centrally located hotel, with sightseeing and experiences booked separately.

Ideal for: Couples, first-time visitors and travellers planning a short city break or festive getaway.

What to look for: A hotel near a Metro station, convenient flight times and enough flexibility to explore Copenhagen’s neighbourhoods.

Booking tip: Compare flight-and-hotel packages with booking separately. Check baggage allowances, hotel location and cancellation terms before deciding.

Copenhagen is a popular departure and arrival port for Northern European cruises, including itineraries exploring the Baltic region and Scandinavian capitals.

Consider spending two or three nights in Copenhagen before or after your cruise. Check which cruise terminal your ship uses before arranging transfers, as departure locations vary.

✈️ Tromsø, Norway

Why We Picked It

Tromsø brings together Arctic scenery, colourful waterfront buildings and unforgettable winter experiences. Surrounded by mountains and fjords, it’s a wonderful base for northern lights adventures, wildlife encounters and exploring Norway’s far north.

We’ve visited Tromsø ourselves, experienced the northern lights and enjoyed a Sámi and reindeer excursion. It’s somewhere we’d happily return to, especially with a little more time to explore.

Our Tromsø City Guide shares our experience, where we stayed and what we’d do differently next time.

Who it’s best for

Northern lights seekers • Couples • Arctic adventurers • Nature lovers • Photographers • Wildlife enthusiasts • Winter holiday travellers

Fun fact

Tromsø is home to the world’s northernmost botanical garden, where Arctic and alpine plants grow outdoors despite the city’s extreme northern latitude.

Air-Holiday Insight

Take the Fjellheisen cable car up Mount Storsteinen just before sunset. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Tromsø in daylight and see the city lights come on as darkness falls.

Worth Knowing Before You Book

  • Northern lights aren’t guaranteed. Plan several evenings rather than relying on one tour, and check the weather forecast as well as aurora conditions.
  • Winter activities book up. Popular northern lights excursions, reindeer experiences and dog sledding can fill quickly during peak periods.
  • Tour meeting points matter. Many excursions depart from central Tromsø, sometimes returning late at night. Check the walking distance from your accommodation.
  • Prepare for Arctic weather. Conditions can change quickly, particularly outside the city. Pack warm layers and suitable footwear, even if your tour provides thermal clothing.

Quick Snapshot

  • Best for: Northern lights, Arctic scenery and winter adventures
  • Flight time from London: Around 3½–4 hours direct, depending on the route
  • Recommended stay: 4–5 nights
  • Best months: February & October
  • Atmosphere: Arctic, welcoming and adventure-filled

✈️ Plan & Book Your Trip

Airport

Tromsø Airport (TOS). Direct flights from London take approximately 3½–4 hours. The airport is around 10–15 minutes from central Tromsø by taxi or private transfer.

Suggested travel months

February offers snowy landscapes, winter activities and northern lights opportunities. October brings autumn colours, milder conditions and the chance to see the aurora without the deepest winter cold.

Trip length tip

Allow 4–5 nights to enjoy Tromsø without rushing. This gives you time for northern lights excursions, Arctic experiences and exploring the city.

Planning tip

Book your must-do excursions early, particularly reindeer encounters, dog sledding and northern lights tours. Check cancellation terms, as weather can affect departures.

Booking insight

Flight availability varies considerably by season. Compare direct and connecting routes, particularly if you’re travelling outside the main winter period. Check baggage allowances if you’re bringing bulky winter clothing or equipment.

Our own Flights page includes seasonal flight ideas, travel inspiration and current flight offers to help you start planning your trip.

Start planning your flights

Check current routes, travel dates and seasonal flight offers before booking.

🏨 Hotels

Best for: Short winter stays, guided tours and travellers who want restaurants nearby.

Best areas to filter by:

City centre – Easy access to many tour departures
Harbourfront – Waterfront setting and central facilities
Tromsdalen – Quieter base across the bridge

We’ve stayed here: We spent two nights at Thon Hotel Polar, a convenient city-centre base for exploring Tromsø and joining organised excursions. Read more about our experience in our Tromsø City Guide.

When to book: Book early for winter peak dates and rooms that fit a family or have a particular view. Confirm how you will reach evening tour meeting points.

🏡 Self-catering

Best for: Families, groups, longer stays and travellers who value space after cold-weather outings.

Best areas to filter by:

Central Tromsøya – Shops, buses and tour access
Tromsdalen – More residential space across the water
Kvaløya – A quieter nature-focused stay, best with transport planned

When to book: Reserve larger apartments early for winter dates. Check heating, luggage access, parking and the route back from evening activities.

Combine a northern lights chase with a fjord excursion, panoramic views from the Fjellheisen cable car or visits to the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria and Polar Museum. Seasonal experiences include dog sledding, reindeer encounters and whale watching, so check operating dates before booking.

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For a smoother arrival and departure, it’s worth pre-booking essentials before you travel — especially during busy periods.

  • Airport transfers: A private transfer to central Tromsø typically takes around 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic and where you are staying.
  • Airport extras: An airport hotel or parking may help with an early UK departure; compare a lounge if you have a long wait before flying.
  • Travel insurance: Check cover for the specific Arctic activities you book, particularly sledding, snowmobiling or other winter excursions.
  • Luggage storage: Useful if you arrive before check-in or have a late departure.

When it’s worth it: You won’t need a car for a short city break if you’re booking organised excursions. Tromsø’s centre is compact, and many tours include transport.

A hire car becomes more useful if you want to explore Kvaløya, Sommarøy or the surrounding fjords independently.

Winter driving: Snow, ice and limited daylight can make driving challenging. Consider your experience with Arctic conditions before hiring a vehicle.

Our Car Hire page covers essential information, driving tips and what to compare before booking.

Best package style: Flights and a centrally located hotel, with Arctic experiences booked separately.

Ideal for: Couples, northern lights seekers and travellers planning their first Arctic holiday.

What to look for: Convenient flight times, accommodation near excursion meeting points and enough free evenings for northern lights opportunities.

Booking tip: Compare flight-and-hotel packages against booking separately. Check baggage allowances, cancellation conditions and whether any excursions are included.

Skiing options: Tromsø Alpinpark offers downhill skiing close to the city, while the surrounding mountains provide opportunities for guided ski touring and cross-country skiing.

Best months: February to April generally offer good opportunities for winter sports, depending on snow and weather conditions.

Booking tip: Tromsø isn’t a traditional large ski resort. Check lift operations, equipment hire and transport before booking. For mountain ski touring, consider a qualified local guide.

✈️ Florence, Italy

Why We Picked It

Florence brings together Renaissance art, remarkable architecture and some of Italy’s most memorable food experiences. Its historic centre is wonderfully walkable, with grand piazzas, traditional markets and inviting cafés around almost every corner.

Beyond the famous galleries and landmarks, you’ll find quieter neighbourhoods, artisan workshops and beautiful Tuscan countryside within easy reach. Florence is ideal for a cultural city break, particularly during the milder spring and autumn months.

For more inspiration, explore our Florence City Break Guide, featuring ideas for making the most of your visit.

Who it’s best for

Art lovers • Couples • Food enthusiasts • History lovers • Architecture enthusiasts • Independent travellers • Romantic city breaks

Fun fact

Florence has a series of tiny wine windows, known as buchette del vino, built into historic buildings. Originally used to sell wine directly onto the street, some have reopened, allowing visitors to order a glass through the little openings.

Air-Holiday Insight

Cross the Arno into Oltrarno for traditional workshops, independent restaurants and a quieter side of Florence. It’s especially enjoyable in the evening when the streets come alive.

Worth Knowing Before You Book

  • Book major attractions ahead. The Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery are extremely popular. Reserve timed tickets in advance, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
  • Florence is best explored on foot. The historic centre is compact, but cobbled streets and uneven pavements make comfortable footwear essential.
  • Watch for restricted driving zones. Much of central Florence falls within a ZTL (limited traffic zone). If you’re hiring a car, check access restrictions and parking arrangements carefully.
  • Allow time beyond the city. Florence is a wonderful base for exploring Tuscany, including Siena, Chianti and the surrounding countryside.

Quick Snapshot

  • Best for: Art, culture, food and romantic city breaks
  • Flight time from London: Approximately 2–2½ hours direct
  • Recommended stay: 3–5 nights
  • Best months: October & April
  • Atmosphere: Historic, artistic, romantic and lively

✈️ Plan & Book Your Trip

Airport

Florence Airport (FLR) is approximately 20–30 minutes from the historic centre by taxi, depending on traffic. The T2 tram provides a convenient public transport alternative.

Direct flights from London take approximately 2–2½ hours. Pisa Airport (PSA) is another option, with onward rail and bus connections to Florence.

Travelling by train

Florence is well connected to Rome, Bologna, Milan and Venice by high-speed rail, making it easy to combine several Italian destinations in one holiday. Travelling from London is also possible via Paris and northern Italy, although you’ll need to plan connections and allow for an overnight stop.

Booking tip: Book high-speed trains in advance for better fares, particularly during busy travel periods. Compare journey times and station locations before choosing your route.

Find train tickets

Suggested travel months

October offers comfortable sightseeing temperatures, autumn colours and seasonal Tuscan food experiences. April brings spring flowers, pleasant walking weather and opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside.

Trip length tip

Allow 3–5 nights to explore Florence’s major attractions, enjoy its neighbourhoods and include a day trip into Tuscany.

Planning tip

Reserve popular attractions before travelling, particularly the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery and Brunelleschi’s Dome. Check opening days, as some museums close on Mondays.

Booking insight

Compare flights into Florence and Pisa, taking transfer costs and journey times into account. Florence Airport is closer, but Pisa may offer more convenient flight options depending on your departure airport.

Our own Flights page includes seasonal flight ideas, travel inspiration and current flight offers to help you start planning your trip.

Start planning your flights

Check current routes, travel dates and seasonal flight offers before booking.

🏨 Hotels

Best for: Couples, first-time visitors, short city breaks and travellers wanting major attractions within walking distance.

Best areas to filter by:

Centro Storico – Central location close to the Duomo, galleries and historic landmarks.

Santa Maria Novella – Convenient for the railway station, restaurants and day trips.

Santa Croce – Historic streets, lively piazzas and plenty of dining options.

When to book: Reserve central hotels early for April and October. Check whether accommodation is accessible by taxi, particularly if you’re travelling with heavy luggage.

🏡 Self-catering

Best for: Families, groups, longer stays and travellers wanting extra space and flexibility.

Best areas to filter by:

Oltrarno – Traditional neighbourhoods, artisan workshops and local restaurants.

San Frediano – Independent cafés, neighbourhood atmosphere and accommodation away from the busiest attractions.

Campo di Marte – Residential surroundings with transport connections into central Florence.

When to book: Reserve central apartments early for spring and autumn. Check cleaning fees, lift access and whether the property has air conditioning or heating.

Explore Florence’s Renaissance masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia, admire the Duomo and cross the historic Ponte Vecchio. Enjoy Tuscan food tours, traditional markets and sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo, or venture into the countryside for wine tastings and visits to medieval towns.

For more inspiration, read our Florence City Break Guide, covering what to see and do, or explore Florence with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.

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For a smoother arrival and departure, it’s worth pre-booking essentials before you travel — especially during busy periods.

  • Airport transfers: Florence Airport is close to the city centre, with tram, taxi and private transfer options. If arriving at Pisa, allow additional time for the onward journey.
  • Airport extras: Compare UK airport parking, overnight hotels and lounges, particularly if you have an early departure or late return.
  • Travel insurance: Check your policy covers your planned activities and any pre-booked experiences.
  • Luggage storage: For a late flight, check whether a suitable Bounce location lets you enjoy a final afternoon without your bags.

When it’s worth it: You won’t need a car for exploring Florence itself. The historic centre is walkable, and trains connect Florence with many Tuscan destinations.

Hiring a car becomes more useful if you’re planning to explore Chianti, rural Tuscany or smaller villages that are difficult to reach by public transport.

Driving considerations: Florence has restricted traffic zones, and parking can be expensive. Consider collecting your hire car when leaving the city rather than keeping it throughout your stay.

Our Car Hire page covers essential information, driving tips and what to compare before booking.

Best package style: Flights and a centrally located hotel, with sightseeing and day trips booked separately.

Ideal for: Couples, first-time visitors and travellers planning a cultural city break.

What to look for: Accommodation within walking distance of major attractions, convenient flight times and flexibility to explore Tuscany.

Booking tip: Compare flight-and-hotel packages with booking separately. Check baggage allowances, airport transfers and hotel cancellation conditions before deciding.

✈️ Oaxaca, Mexico

Why We Picked It

Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most fascinating cultural destinations, known for its colourful streets, traditional markets, remarkable food and centuries-old celebrations. Its historic centre is filled with beautiful architecture, independent shops and lively plazas.

Beyond the city, you’ll find ancient archaeological sites, traditional villages and spectacular mountain scenery. Oaxaca is particularly memorable during Day of the Dead, but its culture, cuisine and welcoming atmosphere make it worth exploring throughout the year.

Discover more in our Day of the Dead in Oaxaca Guide, covering celebrations, local traditions and practical advice for planning your visit.

Who it’s best for

Culture lovers • Food enthusiasts • Couples • Independent travellers • History enthusiasts • Festival visitors • Photographers

Fun Fact: During Day of the Dead, some Oaxacan communities create elaborate tapetes using coloured sand, flowers and other natural materials. These intricate artworks can take hours to complete, yet they’re deliberately temporary, often honouring loved ones who have died.

Air-Holiday Insight

Explore the colourful Jalatlaco neighbourhood early in the morning, before the streets get busier. Its murals, traditional architecture and small cafés offer a lovely alternative to the historic centre.

Worth Knowing Before You Book

  • Plan ahead for Day of the Dead. Celebrations centre on 1–2 November, with events beginning in late October. Accommodation fills quickly, and street closures can affect transport.
  • Allow generous flight connections. Most UK journeys involve changing planes. If connecting through Mexico City, allow time for immigration, baggage collection and security.
  • Choose your location carefully. Staying near the historic centre makes exploring easier, particularly when celebrations and road closures affect transport.
  • Respect local traditions. Cemetery visits and community celebrations are meaningful occasions. Ask before photographing people, follow local guidance and avoid disturbing offerings.

Quick Snapshot

  • Best for: Culture, traditional celebrations, food and history
  • Journey from London: Approximately 15–20+ hours with connections
  • Recommended stay: 5–7 nights
  • Best months: October & November
  • Atmosphere: Colourful, traditional, creative and lively

✈️ Plan & Book Your Trip

Airport

Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) is approximately 20–40 minutes from the historic centre by road, depending on traffic.

There are no regular direct flights from London to Oaxaca. Most journeys involve at least one connection, often through Mexico City (MEX).

Suggested travel months

Late October and early November are particularly special for Day of the Dead, when Oaxaca’s streets fill with decorations, music and traditional celebrations.

For a quieter cultural break, consider other times of year. Oaxaca’s markets, food scene, museums and archaeological sites can be explored throughout the year.

Trip length tip

Allow 5–7 nights to explore Oaxaca City, experience its food and traditions, and include trips to Monte Albán or nearby villages.

For Day of the Dead, arriving around 28 October and staying until 3 November gives you time to experience celebrations without rushing.

Planning tip

If connecting through Mexico City, allow approximately 3–4 hours between flights where possible. You may need to complete immigration, collect and recheck luggage, and pass through security.

If your itinerary connects through the United States, check the applicable transit entry requirements before booking.

Booking insight

Compare flight itineraries carefully, particularly when travelling through Mexico City. Check whether connections are protected under one booking, whether baggage needs rechecking and whether the journey involves changing airports.

Our own Flights page includes seasonal flight ideas, travel inspiration and current flight offers to help you start planning your trip.

Start planning your flights

Check current routes, travel dates and seasonal flight offers before booking.

🏨 Hotels

Best for: Couples, first-time visitors, cultural city breaks and travellers wanting attractions within walking distance.

Best areas to filter by:

Centro Histórico – Central location for major attractions, restaurants and celebrations.

Santo Domingo – Beautiful historic streets, galleries and cafés near the famous church.

Jalatlaco – Colourful neighbourhood with murals, independent cafés and a quieter atmosphere.

When to book: Reserve accommodation well ahead of Day of the Dead, particularly for late October and early November. Check access arrangements if street closures affect your arrival. View our picks on the Day of the Dead Blog.

🏡 Self-catering

Best for: Families, groups, longer stays and travellers wanting extra space and flexibility.

Best areas to filter by:

Centro Histórico – Convenient for sightseeing, markets and cultural activities.

Jalatlaco – Characterful streets and cafés within reach of central attractions.

Xochimilco – Traditional neighbourhood with a more residential atmosphere.

When to book: Book early for festival dates. Check air conditioning, kitchen facilities, security arrangements and whether your accommodation can be reached by vehicle during celebrations.

Explore Oaxaca’s colourful markets, historic churches and remarkable food scene, or discover the ancient Zapotec city of Monte Albán. Join a traditional cooking class, explore nearby artisan villages or experience the music, decorations and community celebrations of Day of the Dead.

Our Day of the Dead in Oaxaca Guide offers more inspiration, including cultural traditions, places to explore and advice for visiting respectfully.

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For a smoother arrival and departure, arrange essential travel details before leaving, particularly if you’re visiting during major celebrations.

  • Airport Transfers: Oaxaca Airport is approximately 20–40 minutes from the historic centre. Use an authorised airport taxi or pre-booked transfer, and confirm the meeting point, luggage arrangements and whether festival road closures affect your drop-off.
  • Airport extras: Compare a UK airport hotel, parking or a lounge if your flight itinerary involves an early start or a long connection.
  • Travel insurance: Check cover for your destination, planned activities and any connecting flights.
  • Luggage storage: Useful if you arrive before check-in or have a late departure.

When it’s worth it: You won’t need a car for exploring central Oaxaca. Many attractions are within walking distance, and organised tours can take you to nearby archaeological sites and villages.

Hiring a car may be useful if you’re planning to explore the surrounding valleys or more remote destinations independently.

Driving considerations: Narrow streets, busy traffic and festival road closures can make driving challenging. Check parking arrangements and local road conditions before hiring a vehicle.

Our Car Hire page covers essential information, driving tips and what to compare before booking.

Best package style: Flights and a centrally located hotel, with cultural experiences and excursions booked separately.

Ideal for: Couples, cultural travellers and visitors planning a Day of the Dead holiday.

What to look for: Accommodation within walking distance of the historic centre, manageable flight connections and enough time to explore beyond the celebrations.

Booking tip: Compare flight-and-hotel packages with booking separately. Check baggage allowances, connection times and cancellation conditions, especially during busy festival dates.

Looking for something different?

Our Featured Destinations change throughout the year, bringing you fresh holiday inspiration as the seasons change.

Looking for somewhere else? Explore our growing collection of destinations, travel guides and holiday ideas from around the world.

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