Travel Guide
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The LAB Anti-Mall Costa Mesa, California
The LAB Anti-Mall in Costa Mesa, California feels fresh. It's the cool spot I would like to have hung out at with friends every weekend if I were 12 again. An enormous fiddle leaf fig plant towers over the open space common area touching the wooden ceiling as it tries to makes its way through the skylight. Three neon signs that say Yes, No, Maybe hang on the wall. People sit at varying seats, stools, chairs, & tables sprawled out; typing on their laptops, nibbling on a bite to eat, chatting with a friend. Other patrons walk to & fro with their masks on as they shop. The world comes alive again as it adjusts itself in a world with COVID. From restaurants to small local businesses, The Lab Anti-Mall Costa Mesa isn't your average shopping mall experience.
The Lab Costa Mesa
I sit down at a tiny table with a pair of mismatched chairs at the LAB Anti Mall. I take off my mask to enjoy a bite of my mini donut haul from Good Town Doughnuts. I snagged the Raspberry Pistachio & Chocolate Strawberry doughnuts. Good Town Doughnuts offers vegan & non-vegan options. We accidentally picked both vegan versions since the flavours just appealed to us. I particularly loved the Chocolate Strawberry with the chocolate doughnut base & tart strawberry glaze. Take a look at the Good Town Doughnuts Instagram page for photos of their delightful doughnuts. This is the perfect destination to go shopping in Orange County.
The LAB Anti-Mall Costa Mesa, California Address: 2930 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 United States
Located at 2930 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 United States, the LAB Anti-Mall has food & drink options, clothing shops, thrift stores, barbershop, hair salon, record store, & some other bits & bobs. I've actually been here before, although it was quick, in & out. This time I was able to get a better feel of the LAB Anti-Mall & What makes it so great, exciting. I'm glad to be back. Take a look at the LAB website!
Fred & I said what the hell, drove an hour away from our usual haunts to explore Costa Mesa, California. Located close to the 405 Freeway on Bristol Street, LAB Anti-Mall was a doughnut, vegan food whirlwind.
Please check out my Instagram post about my Orange County day trip to the LAB Anti-Mall. There are plenty of online reviews so you can really get a feel of places nearby, what people think, the type of art, the best restaurant to check out, & more.
Whether you're an Orange County local or came to Costa Mesa CA for a day trip, there's quite a lot to see at the LAB. If you're tired of the same old same old then you'll like the unique shops & restaurants that the LAB Anti-Mall provides. This place is different. There's music, art, & installations, an attention to detail in every corner. Address: 2930 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 United States.
Related reading: Things to Do in North County San Diego, California
Parking
There are parking options throughout the LAB. However, if you come on a busy day, it's likely that all the spaces in the parking lot will be full. We came on Sunday & it was busy. We drove around a couple of times & had to do a bit of walking from our parking space. I'm not sure if there's street parking, at least not very close by.
You could check out LAB Anti-Mall's other restaurants, eateries, & drinkeries Baba's Chicken, Bootleggers, Habana, Hana Re, Nook Coffee, Refresh Stream, Ruin Bar, Seabirds Kitchen, & The Den (formerly known as Gypsy Den).
Fun Fact: "LAB" stands for Little American Business. Their goal to combat retail monotony began in 2003. Now it's a relatively popular hotspot for pretty much any age group to shop, eat, & enjoy Costa Mesa.
Address: 2930 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 United States
Experience unique shopping opportunities at the LAB's stores. You'll find a great variety. We went to 2nd Street USA; Fred & I each scored something. This thrift store has a mix of funky vintage blouses to modern name brand sneakers, so men & women alike can get some shopping done. If you want to find a great place to shop local, LAB Anti-Mall is one of those one-stop shops.
Store hours may vary: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday & Saturday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM. View the LAB store list website for links to each business & up-to-date hours.
Popular shops include Urban Outfitters and Buffalo Exchange. Find some music at a record shop or eat a doughnut in the sun at one of the outdoor seating areas. This eclectic destination area is a little bit more exciting than your average shopping mall experience. Bring a friend and make it a day.
Lab Anti Mall Store List
Shopping
Blends + Carve
Buffalo Exchange
Eco Now
Red + Blue Vintage
Sundressed Inc
Terra Nova Vintage
Urban Outfitters
Food & Drink
Baba's Chicken
Bootleggers
Good Town Doughnuts
Habana
Hana Re
Nook Coffee
Refresh Stream
Ruin Bar
Seabirds Kitchen
The Den
Other Shops
Barber Shop
Crew Salon
Creme Tangerine Records
The Artery
We had dinner at Nice Guys Vegan, an all-vegan restaurant that ultimate vegan comfort foods such as burgers, fries, & desserts). Think vegan fast-casual restaurant. The BBQ Bacon Burger & Spicy Chicken Burger. Both were absolutely incredible & believe me because I’ve had a lot of crapy burgers in my 15+ years of being meat-free.
Then there's the eco-friendly retail campus, The CAMP, that's dedicated to supporting the community through an active, healthy lifestyle mindful of environmentalism. View The CAMP website for more information.
Located at 2930 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, you could spend the day at the LAB Anti-Mall shopping, exploring the place, taking cool photos of the art and culture. The indoor-outdoor aspect means you can have shelter on rainy days & still enjoy the sunshine on those beautiful California days. It really is the best of both worlds. Located in Costa Mesa, CA, this small anti-mall feels pumped with life & a thriving community. So yeah, that's my review of the place. Read the Yelp or TripAdvisor LAB Anti Mall reviews to see what places call to you. Please leave a comment to share your thoughts - have you visited? It's like a South Coast Plaza alternative with more affordable and artsy vibes. From fun shopping to restaurants and coffee, there is a lot to do in this cool area. Search online to learn about updated hours and and Covid updates.
Related reading: Warner Brothers Studio Tour Gilmore Girls in Burbank, CA
Have you been to the LAB Anti Mall? What are your favorite shops?
Related reading: Searching for the Best Coffee in Carlsbad, California
Things to Do in North County San Diego, California
Travel outside of popular areas of San Diego County such as downtown, La Jolla, & Balboa Park. They're fantastic & iconic & certainly worth a visit, but this post is all about visiting the north part of the county.
Your family will have the best time in North County! What is there to do in North County San Diego? Quite a lot! If you get an opportunity to travel to this area in Southern California, you'll find shopping, music, events, & more! You'll find that it's the life of the part.
Related reading: Coffee Shops in Carlsbad, California
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Remember this post is more for future reference as travel starts to open up again. Please be safe. Socially distance yourself from others whenever possible. Wear your mask. I went on a hike & nearly everyone wore a mask. There weren't many people on the trail, but each person put their mask on as they passed by, especially in narrow areas of the trail where you can't distance yourself. It's like sunscreen, hat, water, it's protection! Why wouldn't I protect myself?
What is Considered North County in San Diego? What Towns are North of San Diego?
North County San Diego consists of coastal regions as well as inland regions. The coastal cities include Carlsbad, Del Mar, Encinitas, Oceanside, Solana Beach, and Vista. The inland cities include Escondido, Poway, San Marcos, and the northern part of the City of San Diego. The mountain cities include Ramona & Valley Center. There's room to explore the lifestyle as you travel through the coastal & inland cities.
Things to do: What is There to Do in North County San Diego?
Beaches
You'll find numerous beaches to choose from in the Southern California area. Del Mar, Encinitas, Carlsbad, & Oceanside are all beach towns in North County. Each city has its own range of beaches to pick from. You could travel from beach to beach if you really wanted to. South Carlsbad State Beach, Tamarack Surf Beach, South Oceanside Beach, South Ponto Beach, Moonlight State Beach, Buccaneer Beach Park, Oceanside Harbor Beach, & many more!
Hikes
Spend the day doing outdoor activities. While people aren't raving about the stunning views, I'd consider nature one of the best things to do in North County San Diego! Discover miles of hidden hills in Escondido's Way Up Trail, Harmony Grove Overlook, and Equine Incline Loop at Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. Del Dios Gorge Trail at Lake Hodges in Escondido looks like a relaxing beachfront vacation instead.
People spend their day at the lake fishing & simmering in the sun like a turkey roasting in an oven. Walk around the Encinitas lagoon. Don't miss Annies Canyon Trail via North Rios Trailhead Loop, part of the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. I went with a couple friends & it was a beautiful experience.
Hike Batiquitos Lagoon in Carlsbad for an incredible view of the lagoon near the Pacific Ocean. Potato Chip Rock, Double Peak Trail, Way Up Trail, Lake Calavera Loop Trail. There are soooo many hikes & trails, do a little bit of Googling or use AllTrails!
Water Activities
Once you get up to North County you'll find lots of fun options such as shopping, travel, heading to a museum, or to the sea. Surf at the ocean. Rent a paddleboard or pedal boat at Lake San Marcos Marina. The area offers plenty of water activities whether you want to just hang out at the beach or lake, or if you want to kayak, surf, etc. There's the Wave Water Park in Vista.
Gardens
We already know the abundance of opportunities & activities in San Diego (like kicking in in La Jolla or spending the afternoon at Torrey Pines), but there are literally hundreds of things to do in North County San Diego. There's the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens in Vista, California. Stroll around the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. Go shopping for plants at Buena Creek Gardens in San Marcos.
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| Grab coffee or tea at one of the many coffee shops in Carlsbad, Oceanside, etc! |
Coffee & Tea
Old California Coffee House and Eatery, Peet's Coffee, Leap Coffee, Baba Coffee, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. There's really no shortage of coffee options. You can support small, locally owned businesses rather than big chains like Starbucks.
Breweries in Vista
San Diego is known for its craft beer, it's kind of San Diego's thing. There are actually a lot of breweries in North County. In Vista, you'll find Bear Roots Brewing Co., Wavelength Brewing Company, Backstreet Brewery, Mother Earth Brewing Company, Ebullition Brew Works, Barrel Harbor Brewing, Booze Brothers Brewing Co., BattleMage Brewing Company, Belching Beaver Pub 980, Latitude 33 Brewing Company, Helia Brewing Company. Downtown Vista is popping in general!
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| Don't miss the craft beer & brewery scene in North County; Vista has a lot of breweries! |
Breweries in Carlsbad
In Carlsbad, you can find Jacked Up Brewery & Culver Beer Co. There's probably more!
Breweries in Oceanside
In Oceanside, you'll find breweries such as Oceanside Brewing Company, Black Plague Brewing, Belching Beaver Brewery Oceanside, Northern Pine Brewing, Kilowatt Brewing Oceanside Taproom, Legacy Brewing Company, Breakwater Brewing, Bagby Beer Co. As far as things to do in North County San Diego, craft beer is at the top of the list.
Wineries
Although San Diego County isn't a notable wine country, there's still plenty of wine & some rolling hills of wineries hidden away within North County SD. 2Plank Vineyards in Vista, La Fleur's Winery in San Marcos. Escondido is the biggest hub for wine since it's perfectly located for wineries.
Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum, Belle Marie Winery, BK Cellars Urban Winery & Tasting Lounge are all in Escondido.
Twin Oaks Valley Winery in San Marcos. Witch Creek Winery in Carlsbad.
Other Adult Beverages
Prefer mead? Head to Meadiocrity Mead or Twisted Horn Mead and Cider in Vista.
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| Lots of hiking & nature in North County SD, such as in Escondido! |
Parks
Grape Day Park & Kit Carson Park in Escondido are popular amongst locals. Kit Carson Park has hiking trails, tennis courts, soccer fields, & other convenient amenities. There's Brengle Terrace Park and Buena Vista Park (also called Alta Vista Gardens) in Vista.
Oak Riparian Park in Oceanside has a playground, nature trails for hiking, as well as a picnic area. There's also Buddy Todd Park, Capistrano Park, Guajome Regional Park, Mance Buchanon Park in Oceanside, California.
Don't worry - Carlsbad has parks too, including Aviara Community Park, Alga Norte Community Park, Hidden Canyon Community Park, Cannon Park. Holiday Park, Magee Park, & more.
You'll find San Marcos Brandley Park packed with what seems like the entire county for the 4th of July fireworks. Del Mar has Seagrove Park, Powerhouse Park & Beach, Del Mar Shores Park, North Bluff Preserve, San Dieguito County Park. Parks are free, so your bank account will be appreciative.
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located in Escondido, California. Fun story: I used to work there, but that's a story for another day. The Safari Park is different than the San Diego Zoo location in Balboa Park. People travel from all over the globe to go to the zoo & Safari Park.
LEGOLAND California
Located in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND California is a popular & fun destination for families & children. If your kiddos like Legos, this is the spot for them. They even have a hotel so you can stay on the property without having to navigate to & from the theme park every day. Take a look at the Legoland website for tickets, dining menu options, park maps, & more.
Shopping at Westfield North County
You'll find lots of shopping options throughout Northern San Diego County. Westfield North County in Escondido has stores, food court, & other dining options. Take the family& kids shopping, run a couple errands, grab some food, you could stay there for hours. Check out the Westfield North County website for updates.
Schools
If you want to get an education, you can do it smack dab in North County. Cal state? We got you! California State University, San Marcos (CSUSM) is a four-year university in San Marcos. Community colleges? You can find Palomar College in San Marcos, with six other education sites in North San Diego County as well as MiraCosta College, a community college in Oceanside.
Outdoors and Other Things
The Queen Califia's Magical Circle sculpture garden in Escondido is cute, especially with kids.
Oceanside, California
Read my full blog post of things to do in Oceanside, California: restaurants, coffee shops, what to see, & more! If you're in Oceanside, you can't miss the Oceanside Pier, Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside Sunset Market, Oceanside Harbor Village, spending an afternoon at the beach or munching at restaurants or breweries.
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Encinitas, California
Like strolling by the beach? There are plenty of things to do in Encinitas, California. Walk down Main Street Encinitas. Read my blog post about things to do in Encinitas, California. Whether you're a local to North County San Diego or an out-of-town visitor, you'll find sun, fun, food, & drinks in Encinitas. Moonlight Beach, Cardiff State Beach, San Elijo State Beach, & Swami's State Beach are some of the popular beaches in town.
A Guide on what to do in Encinitas: Things to do in Encinitas, California
Del Mar, California
Del Mar is closer to San Diego than other North County cities, but still far enough to have its own personality. Del Mar is a cute beachy town with local shopping, food, & views of the Pacific Ocean. It's home to the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Read my blog post about the Del Mar Fair, now called the San Diego County Fair. You can travel up the coast of Encinitas into Oceanside & beyond.
Related reading: Encinitas Coffee Shops: Searching for the Best Coffee in Town
No matter what your interests are - hiking, travel, shopping, fun, food, coffee, tea, craft beer, cocktails, beach days, mountains, lakes, lagoons, fishing, surfing, you'll find hundreds of things that you can do in the North County area. The area has historic value, fantastic food, and it's worth sharing all the things you may do in the area. The question is: what do you WANT to do? What do you like? You'll find something that you love!
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| Rainbow in San Marcos, California. |
Travel outside of La Jolla & the most well-known parts of San diego & really visit up north. There are literally so many things to do. Adults, teens, & kids alike can find several great opportunities in North County San Diego. From shopping local boutiques on a weekend to heading to a dive bar with friends at night, there's always something to do. You'll have a good time. What is there to do in San Diego today? See for yourself! I hope you get a chance to travel to North County. Do you have any new information? Leave a comment or email.
El Cielo Winery Resort on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada, Mexico
El Cielo winery resort on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe in Ensenada, Mexico looks like the scene from a movie. Green grass & flat terrain surround viñedo El Cielo with rolling mountains in the background. Kids run around the vineyard playing tag & laughing, their parents watching from a distance. A bachelor party sits around a table at restaurante El Cielo, Latitud32, sipping Mexican wine. Peacocks strut their stuff. The world feels happy, the evening air feels cool. This is a fraction of Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. It's not a far drive from the United States or San Diego.
If you're interested in tasting Mexican wine, make your way down the Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. What to do? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? It's a splendid spot to explore a piece of Mexico. The Valle de Guadalupe wineries offer plenty of grape varietals. Get ready to learn more about vinos Baja California from El Cielo winery resort by Karisma. Searching for Valle de Guadalupe hotels? Check out this page of all the properties in the area!
Address: Carretera El Tigre-El Porvenir KM 7.5 Parcela 117 El Porvenir, 22755 Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., Mexico.
Read my other blog posts about Mexico:
A Mini Guide to Tijuana's Breweries, Craft Beer, & Tasting Rooms
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El Cielo Winery Resort by Karisma
We ventured to El Cielo Winery on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, a hot spot for Mexican wine & definitely one of the popular Baja California wineries. We only stayed for the afternoon but you could make a week-long trip on Valle de Guadalupe wine tours & eating all the delicious fresh food & goods sold in the area. Restaurante El Cielo has fresh seafood & other unique dishes to keep your mouth watering.El Cielo Winery & Resort feels like a sanctuary with rolling views & peacocks strutting around. The property even has two lakes. Viñedo El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe buzzes with people young & old. We visited in February & it was totally popping. People sipped wine, ate food, & enjoyed everything the resort has to offer. You can even shop for El Cielo vinos online! It's the perfect spot to stay if you want to go on a wine tasting.
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| Exploring El Cielo Winery on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. |
Hotel El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe / Hoteles en Valle de Guadalupe Ensenada
El Cielo winery resort has more than wines & wine tasting. Located on the Wine Route of Ensenada, Mexico, the resort has a range of cool rooms such as the Junior Suite, Master Suite, Owners Suite, & the Residence Master Suite which is 2,669 sq. feet / 248 sq. meters. Smaller suites usually come either with a king-sized or two queen beds. Enjoy room service or head down to the restaurant.
Bigger suites have king-sized beds, maybe even a dining room, fireplace, terrace, & kitchen. Go to their website to check the latest price & availability. Wake up & take in the stunning views from your room, then get ready to explore more of what Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe & restaurante El Cielo has to offer. I didn't get the chance to stay their or even see the rooms but the photos online look blissful. Stay in a remarkable room with cool architecture & awesome views paired with a Baja California wineries right at your doorstep. Take a look at the Karisma Hotels website for more information. Are you a room service fan or would you go outside to eat?
Bigger suites have king-sized beds, maybe even a dining room, fireplace, terrace, & kitchen. Go to their website to check the latest price & availability. Wake up & take in the stunning views from your room, then get ready to explore more of what Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe & restaurante El Cielo has to offer. I didn't get the chance to stay their or even see the rooms but the photos online look blissful. Stay in a remarkable room with cool architecture & awesome views paired with a Baja California wineries right at your doorstep. Take a look at the Karisma Hotels website for more information. Are you a room service fan or would you go outside to eat?
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| Peacocks at El Cielo Winery in Ensenada, Mexico. |
Go on a Tour of El Cielo Winery Resort
The tour was in Spanish so I didn't understand much - I'm studying Spanish but it's not the level of complexity where I can understand wine terminology. That said, you can do a tour of El Cielo winery Valle de Guadelupe. Learn all about the El Cielo vinos Mexican wine so you can figure out if you want to buy a bottle to go. The wine cellar is underground with minimal lighting, so keep that in mind if you have any sensitivities. The wine tasting is a unique experience!
Restaurante El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe: Latitud32 & Polaris
Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe is known for its food, so whilst at El Cielo, eat at Latitud32, a fusion of Baja-Yucatán cuisine & Polaris, which they call baja-avantgarde cuisine. At Latitud32, you try their regional seafood dishes such as the Grilled Octopus or Black Mayan Ceviche. Don't eat seafood? They have vegan options as well.We hung out at Latitud32 outside by the fire pits. Order a beer, wine, or beverage from restaurante El Cielo. We had some kids with us too so you can get juice, soda, water. Perfect place to get some grub after checking out El Cielo winery/viñedo El Cielo.
Gift Shop for El Cielo Vinos, Mexican wine
The gift shop has plenty of gift options. You can buy El Cielo vinos, handcrafted jewelry shaped like grapes, t-shirts, bottle openers, & other goodies. The gift shop is quite large with an assortment of options depending on your style. I was debating buying one of the grape shaped pieces of jewelry (there were bracelets, earrings, necklaces) & couldn't decide on anything, but wish I had bought one!
I tried the El Cielo vinos, browsed the gift shop, awed at the peacocks, & thoroughly enjoyed my brief encounter at El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe. It topics such a fresh experience. I've explored multiple cities in Mexico from the Tijuana craft beer taprooms to Queretaro in Central Mexico, & I always find something new-to-me to appreciate about the beautiful country of Mexico.
I tried the El Cielo vinos, browsed the gift shop, awed at the peacocks, & thoroughly enjoyed my brief encounter at El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe. It topics such a fresh experience. I've explored multiple cities in Mexico from the Tijuana craft beer taprooms to Queretaro in Central Mexico, & I always find something new-to-me to appreciate about the beautiful country of Mexico.
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| Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada, Mexico. |
Valle de Guadalupe Wineries
El Cielo Ruto del Vino is a must-visit but what else can you do while you're there? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? All wine fans should consider a tour of the Mexican wine varieties at Valle de Guadalupe wineries. I mentioned El Cielo vinos but you can check out the other wineries in the area. Might as well, you're already there! There are plenty of spots to sip a glass of wine. Guadalupe Baja California has a lot of wine options.Valle de Guadalupe Hotels
Some of the top Valle de Guadalupe hotels include Hacienda Guadalupe Hotel, Encuentro Guadalupe, Hotel Boutique Valle de Guadalupe, Oeno Wine Resort. Are you traveling with family, for a large bachelorette party, or just on a romantic weekend trip in Ensenada? Do a bit of research to find Valle de Guadalupe hotels that suit your needs. Savor boutique hotels with excellent vistas & amenities. Click here to take a look at the hotels in the area. If you prefer Airbnb, you can get up to $55 off your Airbnb stay if you sign up with this link.Viñedo El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe: Mexican Wine, Food, & Good Views
When you picture top wine destinations did you picture Mexican wine? If not, add vinos Baja California to your list. El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe has everything you need for a vacation. Eat at restaurante El Cielo. Where do you see yourself visiting along Ensenada, Mexico's Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? Would you order room service?Head outside of the United States to enjoy a glass of wine at El Cielo Winery Valle de Guadelupe. Add Guadalupe Baja California to your list.
Their address is: Carretera El Tigre-El Porvenir KM 7.5 Parcela 117 El Porvenir, 22755 Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., Mexico.
What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days: Visiting Berlin, Germany
Got 3 days in Berlin? There is so much that you can do.
I flew from Barcelona to Berlin for $29. How could I resist visiting Berlin at such a bargain? I ended up visiting Berlin for one week, so I have a good idea of how you can condense what to do in Berlin in 3 days.
About me: I write about travel, food, drinks. I've worked with tourism boards such as Visit Long Beach, Visit El Paso, The French Ministry of Agriculture, Visit Reno Tahoe, & Discover Torrance. To learn more about the campaigns I've been a part of, read my Press + Media page.
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| The view of the Tiergarten from the Victory Column in Berlin, Germany. |
Visiting Berlin
Where is Berlin, Germany? Are there tips on what to do in Berlin in 3 days? How about the best Berlin photo spots? This post is ideal for anyone visiting Berlin. Keep reading or scroll to find what you're looking for. Traveling somewhere soon? Check visa requirements!
So, Where is Berlin, Germany?
You might be wondering where is Berlin exactly? In relation to the rest of Europe & the world, where is Berlin, Germany? That's a good question - it's good to be inquisitive. Berlin is the capital of the country of Germany. It's the biggest city in Germany in both area & population, located in the eastern part of the country.
Related reading: How To Use Google Flights to Find Cheap Flights
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| Tips for visiting Berlin: go to Brandenburg Gate. |
3 Days in Berlin Itinerary
72 hours is enough time to visit some of the best places in the city. Try to knock as much as you can on that first day. Three days pass by quickly, so go to the well-known, high-rated places mixed with some of your bucket list items.
Brandenburg Gate
If you have 3 days in Berlin, Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin's most iconic landmarks. The history dates back as far as 1788 when it was constructed. In 1961, the Berlin Wall was inaccessible to locals & visitors since it was in an exclusion zone. After the fall of the wall, people celebrated at Brandenburg Gate & it remains a symbol of a reunited Berlin to this day.
East Side Gallery (former Berlin Wall)
Searching for what to do in Berlin in 3 days? You must visit the East Side Gallery, a portion of the Berlin Wall that still exists. This 1.3-kilometer piece of the former Berlin Wall is completely covered in murals & art. Some of the art is moving & poignant. Some of the art is happy & fun. East Side Gallery is easily one of the best Berlin photo spots with the range of art that covers it. Check out the Berlin Wall Museum. *One of the top Berlin photo spots
Related reading: Learn About the Cologne Cathedral in Cologne, Germany
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Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Also known as the Holocaust Memorial, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, stands to commemorate & remember the victims of the Holocaust. Designed by architect Peter Eisenman & engineer Buro Happold, the memorial contains over 2,500 concrete pieces arranged in a grid, in a somewhat undulating pattern, rising & falling depending on where you walk. I must say I was completely moved at this memorial & took a somber minute to honor the Holocaust victims & survivors. This should go without saying but please be respectful.
Tiergarten
The Tiergarten is easily one of my favorite things to do in Berlin. The inner-city park feels like a tranquil haven within the city. Make sure to stop by if you're pondering what to do in Berlin in 3 days. A must-see for those visiting Berlin, great Berlin photo spots.Alexanderplatz
Spend a few hours exploring Alexanderplatz, a public square, one of the essential stopping points for those visiting Berlin. Alexanderplatz feels like a lively downtown area with its multitude of shops, restaurants, cinemas, within walking distance. Alexanderplatz is located close to the TV Tower, Berliner Rathaus, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, & more.
Hackescher Markt
If you want to go for a stroll, do a bit of shopping at local boutiques, then you need to tour Hackescher Markt.
Checkpoint Charlie
Located on Friedrichstrasse, Checkpoint Charlie is a historic stop for travelers who make a trip to Berlin. Checkpoint Charlie was set up as a border crossing between East & West Germany during the Cold War, named by the Western Allied forces.
Mall of Berlin
Some people sight-see, some people shop. The Mall of Berlin is a massive shopping center in Berlin with around 300 shops for your purchasing pleasure. Shop your heart out, scout out a souvenir or two, or grab dinner in the food court (that’s the option I went for). It was scrumptious! If you need some supplies (clothes, etc.), this might be the place to stock up.
Charlottenburg Palace
Plan a visit to the rococo Charlottenburg Palace, built for Sophie Charlotte, Queen consort in Prussia.
Berlin Television Tower
The Berlin Television Tower is kind of like the North Star; you can see it from anywhere & it almost becomes a navigation tool. "Ah yes, I can see the Berlin Television Tower - we're getting close." The Tower stands 368 meters tall. On a cloudy day, the Tower becomes obscured into the skyline & looks something to the effect of Jack's beanstalk once his magic beans sprouted into the clouds.
Take Me to Church
Top churches in Berlin include Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church, St. Hedwig's Cathedral, St. Mary's Church, Berlin Cathedral, St. Nicholas Church, Maria Regina Martyrum, and more.
Museums: What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days
Berlin is a city rich in history. A trip to Berlin isn't complete without a museum visit. I could drone for hours about the museums in Berlin. There's even an entire Museum Island dedicated to museums in Berlin. Here are some of the museums to check out while visiting Berlin or if you're searching for what to do in Berlin in 3 days.
Head to top museums such as Pergamon Museum, Neues Museum (New Museum), Altes Museum (Old Museum), Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery), Jüdisches Museum (Jewish Museum Berlin), Gropius Bau, Museum für Naturkunde (Museum of Natural History), Deutsches Technikmuseum.
You can visit the Reichstag Building, Charlottenburg Palace, Topography of Terror, Jewish Museum Berlin. Take a look at the Visit Berlin top museums page to look at the range of museums. They go into detail about the top museums in Berlin including art museums, child-friendly museums, photography, design, and film museums, natural history museums, and more.
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| Posing at the Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin (Berlin Botanical Garden). |
Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin (Berlin Botanical Garden)
Man oh man do I love a botanical garden & the Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin is no different. If you can't think of what to do in Berlin in 3 days, add this to your list. I was impressed with the sheer size of the place & it felt like not many people were there. The Tropical Greenhouse is worth a visit as one of the top Berlin photo spots.
Food
Go on a food tour. Check out restaurants on Yelp or Google and save some on your Google Maps. You can also reserve your spot at a restaurant ahead of time in case they need reservations.
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| Roamers Cafe in Berlin, Germany. |
How to Eat on a Budget While Traveling Abroad
There are plenty of ways to save money while you're traveling. Eating out three square meals each day in Berlin can be costly. If you're staying at a hotel, take advantage of any hotel breakfasts. If you're renting a place with a kitchen, stop by a local grocery store to grab a few groceries. Read my blog post for many more tips & tricks on How to Eat on a Budget While Traveling Abroad.
Time to visit Berlin! So did you find the answers to your questions? Where is Berlin Germany? What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days? What are the best Berlin photo spots? Comment your best tip or if I missed something!
Sitges Spain Things to Do: What to Do in Sitges
Barcelona is a big, buzzing city. It needs no introduction, but haaaave you met Sitges? It's cute. It's sweet. It looks good in photos. It treats you well. Located only 37 km away from Barcelona, consider Sitges as your next day trip away from the city. There are countless fun things to do in Sitges, Spain! Like church, local restaurants, nightlight, wine? What about a seaside vacation for a night? There is a lot to see. From beautiful beaches to a thriving town center with cultural events, the narrow streets and passages of Sitges make it a unique destination. Consider this your Sitges guide.
What to Do When Visiting Sitges, Spain
About Carmen
Hello, I'm Carmen, a travel influencer based in San Diego, California. At this time, I've been to 22 countries & 11 U.S. states. As a travel influencer, I document & write about my experiences & how you, the reader, can do it even better! Whether you're browsing things to do in Warsaw, the top Milan highlights or maybe where to stay in Porto, Portugal, you'll find over 600 blog posts on the It's Carmen website. Learn more about me, what I do as a travel influencer & social media consultant. |
| Things to do in Sitges: Spend the afternoon at Sitges Playa. Shirt: Fila For Urban Outfitters Red Valentina Crop Top (sold out, sold on Urban Outfitters) |
Sitges is a beautiful seaside beach town with plenty of things to do in Sitges. Visit Sitges if you like beach vibes, good weather, & beautiful views. Find out what to do in Sitges, including spending the day museum hopping or beach bopping. Beautiful in the summer months and all year long.
How to Get to Sitges: Taking the Train From Barcelona to Sitges
After spending several days in Barcelona I started wondering what are some day trips near Barcelona? I ended up taking the train from Barcelona to Sitges, Spain. It went by relatively quickly, a painless train journey. For the train from Barcelona to Sitges, simply find a seat & get comfortable. The same goes for the train from Sitges to Barcelona. It’s easier to buy a roundtrip ticket ahead of time but you can do it separately. No need to stress.
Related reading: Bunkers del Carmel Turo de la Rovira Barcelona: Things to Do
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| Relax at one of the many beaches at Sitges. |
Sitges Beaches (Sitges Playa)
Sitges is known for its 17 beaches. Love being seaside? Sitges has a lot of beaches, including Platja d'Aiguadolç, Balmins, Barra, Bassa Rodona, Cala de l’Home Mort, Cala Ginesta, Cala Morisca, Cap de Grills, Desenrocada, Estanyol, Fragata, Garraf, Les Anquines, Les Botigues, Platja de la Ribera, Riera Xica, Platja Sant Sebastià beach (Platja de Sant Sebastia), Terramar, and Vallcarca. The warm sun & breezy air of the Sitges weather felt perfect during my October visit. People sat at Sitges Playa with their towels & umbrellas. Which of the beaches would you want to experience?
Activities & Sports
If you're on the hunt for things to do in Sitges, consider cycling, golfing, kayaking, volleyball, running, or a chi kung (also known as qi gong) lesson. The sunny Sitges weather of this Catalan seaside town makes the coastal town centre an ideal destination for outdoor activities & sports fans. I'm not a golfer, but I'd absolutely spend a leisurely afternoon by the sea at Golf Terramar. Relish the Mediterranean views from holes 3 & 4; it's only 15 meters / 50 feet away! |
| Sitges Church Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla & beachgoers. |
Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla (Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla)
You might spot the Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla (also called Iglesia de San Bartolomé y Santa Tecla or Sant Bartolomeu) within your first few minutes in Sitges. It's pretty dang iconic. Soak in the Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla from afar or up close. Don't forget to high five the mermaid (reminds me of Warsaw's mermaids)! You can take in some stunning views of the water from this angle as well.Port d'Aiguadolç
You'll find Port d'Aiguadolç just a 10-minute stroll away from the old town centre downtown area. The Port de Sitges-Aiguadolç has 17 local restaurants & bars, so you could spend the morning grazing at a couple stops before sailing for the afternoon. |
| Just me & the Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla in the background. Shirt: Fila For Urban Outfitters Red Valentina Crop Top (sold out, sold on Urban Outfitters) |
Museums in Sitges
The town of Sitges has a range of museums to visit. You know I love an art museum. I go in every city, but since I only stayed in town for a day trip, I didn't get to visit any of them. If I had more time in town, this would be one of the things to do in Sitges, Spain!Fundació Stämpfli Art Contemporani (Stämpfli Foundation Contemporary Art Museum)
Need a dose of art? Fundació Stämpfli contemporary art museum is located in the town's old fish market (now Sitges Town Hall Square) & has nearly 100 pieces of art from all over the world.El Museu Del Cau Ferrat (The Cau Ferrat Museum)
Founded in 1893 by artist Santiago Rusiñol, Museu Del Cau Ferrat began as a workshop house then turned into a public museum in 1933. The Cau Ferrat Museum contains a mix of ancient art collected by artists as well as modern art. |
| Palau de Maricel (also written Palau Marcel & The Maricel Palace). |
El Museu de Maricel (The Maricel Museum)
Enjoy sculptures & altarpieces from the Romanesque & Gothic periods. Browse artwork from the Neoclassic period. It's all at El Museu de Maricel. There's also the Palau de Maricel (The Maricel Palace).Other Seasonal Activities
The best things to do in Sitges depend on what time of year you happen to visit. From winter treats like the Sitges Christmas Festival & Winter Market Sitges to the iconic Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic de Catalunya, there are many seasonal activities, events, & happenings in the area, so take a look at the events calendar. Find out what to do in Sitges while you're in town! Sitges Terramar Golf Club is nearby if you are seeking a golf course.Festival Jardins Terramar Sitges
Get your fill of live music, dance, & other festivities at the Festival Jardins Terramar Sitges. Who doesn't love a festival? There is more Sitges Spain things to do than you'd think! |
| Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic de Catalunya (Sitges Film Festival) flags hanging throughout Sitges. |
Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic de Catalunya (Sitges Film Festival)
I happened to be in town for the Sitges Film Festival, so Fred & I bought tickets online ahead of time. Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic de Catalunya also known as The International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia, or more simply as the Sitges Film Festival, specializes in the fantasy & horror genres. I saw 4x4. |
| Made it to Sitges Film Festival (Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic de Catalunya). Shirt: Fila For Urban Outfitters Red Valentina Crop Top (sold out, sold on Urban Outfitters) Shoes: Fila Disruptors // Shop these exact Fila Disruptor sneakers here. |
Food, Eating, & Restaurants in the town of Sitges
Gobble up coastal cuisine with a side of fresh breeze with all the local restaurants & wine you want. Try to dine at one of the outdoor eateries near the beach with a sea views of the Catalan coastline. The fresh air pairs perfectly with whatever you're eating. Take a look at some of the top-rated places to eat in the town of Sitges. Does anything suit your fancy?Fred & I grabbed a vegan burger made with black bean, wild rice & smashed nut patty at Beach House. It was pretty bomb. Walk around the town to see what restaurants there are. Walk the streets after as you digest your yummy meal.
Big Al's - craft American burgers
La Pícara - Tapas bar & wine bar
Nem - Un bar de tapes, a tapas bar
Official Sitges tourism website: Sitges Anytime
Spain's official tourism website: España.info
Getaway from the city for a night. Malaga, Granada, Cordoba, Seville, Cadiz, are located in southern Spain. As you walk around the place, you'll see this small Spanish town is worth a visit. Bring your curiosity, a list of things to do in Sitges, maybe a hat & sunglasses thanks to 300 days of sunshine, & you're all set. The train from Barcelona to Sitges is affordable & should take less than an hour. Pop on a podcast - click here for some of my podcast recommendations - & discover the charisma of Sitges.
Check out the things to do in Sitges: Go on a food & wine tasting tour!
La Pícara - Tapas bar & wine bar
Nem - Un bar de tapes, a tapas bar
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| What to do in Sitges, Spain? Try loads of food. |
Where to Stay: Hotels & Airbnbs in Sitges
Which hotel you stay at depends on your needs. There are over 500 hotel listings in Sitges, so you have plenty of hotels, beachfront properties, vacation homes, & goodies to rent. Simply type in the dates you'll be in town & see what works for your stay with this handy dandy map. It's so easy! Spain has so much to savor.Bye Sitges, Until We Meet Again
As a travel influencer, I love when a city has a tourism board. It's one of those things in life that give me joy for no reason, like inanimate objects with faces or seeing wild rabbits at night outside of my apartment. Take a look at the official Sitges tourism website. Their website is pretty robust with plenty of tourist information and ideas on what to do in Sitges. I loved my time in Spain.Spain's official tourism website: España.info
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| Why not take a few photos at one of the many Sitges Beaches (Sitges Playa)? :] |
Shirt: Fila For Urban Outfitters Red Valentina Crop Top (sold out, sold on Urban Outfitters)
Shoes: Fila Disruptors // Shop these exact Fila Disruptor sneakers here.
What would you like to see in the town of Sitges? Would you visit a church, restaurants, nightlight, wine? This is the place to be. Spain has much to experience. Sitges is a good place to relax, stroll along the beach, head to a beach club or nudist beach, have a cocktail at a beach bar or rooftop bar, head to the gay bars, or just savor the amazing views of Spain Sitges.
Pin an image on Pinterest to share with others what to do in Sitges. :]
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