Travel
5 of the most effective highway journeys in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s epic landscapes make it prime road-trip territory, from its wild Pacific coastline to the relaxed vibe of its Caribbean beaches, lush wildlife-filled forests, and still-smoldering volcanoes.
Whereas most highways are properly maintained, driving can nonetheless be a nerve-jangling expertise – from bumper-to-bumper visitors to river crossings and unpredictable drivers in every single place. However whether or not you need to beach-hop, journey the waves, whizz over the rainforest on a zipper wire, or go seeking sloths, nothing beats the liberty of the open highway and exploring at your individual tempo.
Listed here are our high picks for the most effective highway journeys in Costa Rica.
1. San José to La Fortuna
Finest highway journey for outside adventures
San José to La Fortuna; 130km (81 miles); permit three and a half hours
You don’t need to drive removed from the city jungle to come back throughout Costa Rica’s wild and great nature. And after you’ve negotiated San José‘s visitors, the drive is simple – a mixture of main highways (Rte 1, a part of the Pan-American Freeway) and curvy paved roads flanked by small cities.
When you attain La Fortuna, there isn’t a finish to the adventures on supply. Round 7km (10.5 miles) to the west, the postcard-perfect cone of Arenal Volcano dominates the panorama of its namesake national park.
Hike over historic lava fields, or strive mountain biking, horseback using, and white water rafting. There’s windsurfing and kayaking on Lake Arenal too, then unwind with a soak in volcanic scorching springs.
Planning tip: The roads are quieter mid-morning, besides on weekends when locals journey to La Fortuna to spend time on the scorching springs.
2. La Fortuna to Monteverde
Finest highway journey for scenic views
La Fortuna to Monteverde; 183km (114 miles); permit three and a half hours
From La Fortuna, the scenic path to Monteverde takes you round Lake Arenal on Rte 142 in direction of Tilaran, connecting with Rte 145 the place paved highway turns to steep, winding grime roads – a 4WD is good.
Lastly, Rte 606 passes small farms and low fincas as you climb in direction of the mist-wreathed cloud forest, dripping in vegetation and bursting with wildlife.
On a transparent day from a lofty viewpoint, you may see each the Pacific and Caribbean coasts from this biodiverse scorching spot. Birdwatchers and nature lovers shall be of their aspect on awe-inspiring day and night hikes, and for a monkey’s eye view of the forest, you may zip over the forest cover at adrenaline-inducing speeds with Sky Trek Monteverde.
Planning tip: Refill at a fuel station in La Fortuna, Nuevo Arenal, or Tilaran; there’s nothing after that till Monteverde.
3. Drake Bay and the Osa Peninsula
Finest highway journey for getting off-the-beaten-path
Manuel Antonio Nationwide Park to Drake Bay; 211km (130 miles); permit 5 hours
If you happen to hanker after untouched seashores, steamy jungle the place monkeys and jaguars roam, and an adventurous highway journey, look no additional than the far-flung Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica’s southwestern nook.
You may fly from San José to Drake Bay or take a small boat from Sierpe, however taking the highway much less traveled means the possibility to identify scarlet macaws, scampering squirrel monkeys, and different wild issues en route.
You ought to be assured in a 4WD: there are a number of rivers to cross – generally a passenger might want to get out and check the waters – and after you flip off Rte 245 at Rincón de Osa, the roads are unpaved.
Drake Bay is the jumping-off level for snorkeling and scuba diving excursions to the underwater playground of the Caño Island marine reserve, in addition to dolphin and whale-spotting journeys.
Or hike the paths of the untamed Corcovado National Park, the place the tropical lowland forest is house to a wealth of wildlife, then relax in a hammock for some very good sunset-watching.
Detour: Break up the journey alongside Rte 34 at Parque Nacional Marino Ballena, the place you may spot dolphins, migrating humpback whales (from December to April and July to November), and nesting sea turtles (from June to December, significantly September and October).
4. Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula
Finest highway journey for seashore bums
Liberia to Santa Teresa; 265km (165 miles); round six hours however permit a couple of days for seashore hopping
For a blissful beach break, you may’t beat the province of Guanacaste, the place superlative stretches of sand, world-class surf, and spectacular sunsets come as customary. To get there, go west from San José on Rte 27 or in case you’ve flown into Liberia, head south on Rte 21.
On the northern finish of the Nicoya Peninsula, the booming seashore city of Tamarindo is a main spot for water-based adventures, from browsing to snorkeling and dolphin-spotting, or bask within the calm waters of Playa Sámara, the place you may kayak throughout to Isla Chora to snorkel with sea turtles.
From Sámara, it’s an additional 171km (106 miles) on Rte 21 and Rte 160 to the peninsula’s southern tip and the bohemian seashore city of Santa Teresa, the place you may spend your days browsing, saluting the solar from a yoga shala and feasting on top-notch sushi.
Planning tip: Don’t be tempted to take the Pacific Coast-hugging Rte 160 all the best way south; it may be treacherous, particularly within the wet season.
5. The Monkey Path
Finest highway journey for thrill seekers
Playa Hermosa to Potrero, Guanacaste; 30km (19 miles); 40 minutes however permit longer
This beach-hopping shortcut (aka Rte 911) takes you between the sheltered bay of Playa Hermosa and Potrero. This curvy mountain go isn’t for the fainthearted, however gives extra adrenaline-fuelled enjoyable than the sedate Rte 21.
It snakes by a river the place the depth of the water can differ wildly – don’t try it within the wet season with out a 4WD; there’s even a Facebook group devoted to the crossing.
The muddy observe takes you on a roller-coaster journey towards the Pacific, the place you’ll emerge on the low-key city of Potrero, the place mild waves lap a dark-sand seashore, good for swimming, kayaking, and SUP.
If you would like extra motion – on and off the water – the sugar-white sand of Playa Flamingo, its eating places and resorts are a 10-minute drive south round a rocky headland.
Prime ideas for road-tripping round Costa Rica
To lease a automobile you’ll want a sound driving license, a passport with a vacationer visa stamp, and a bank card to cowl the surplus prices. Verify the rental settlement’s small print and know what your insurance coverage covers.
Costs rise from mid-December to the tip of April, particularly round Christmas, New Yr, and Easter – e book autos properly prematurely.
Highways are properly maintained, however in case you plan to go off-road, go for a 4WD (added price for leases). Rural roads may be winding, potholed, and sometimes flooded (the wet season runs from Might to November), so test circumstances earlier than setting out and obtain an offline map – Waze is the preferred navigation app.
Keep away from driving lengthy distances after darkish, particularly within the wet season, as lighting and highway markings may be briefly provide. And, due to poor highway circumstances, inclement climate, driving defensively, or simply stopping to discover, journeys usually take longer than deliberate.
Rental automobiles are straightforward to establish, so don’t go away your possessions on view and take every part out in a single day. If doable, park in a guarded parking zone moderately than on the road.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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