Destinations

Venture somewhere new or see an old favorite in a fresh light. From chasing the northern lights to experiencing the world’s best wine countries, we’ve gathered stories and insider tips on the places you simply can’t miss.

Guest cycling past mountain town, large mountain range in background.
August 25, 2025

The Best Bike Routes in Italy

At Backroads, we’ve been leading guided bike tours in Italy for over three decades. Check out a few of our favorite routes and learn more about some of the best cycling destinations in the country.

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Guests cycling towards hilltop castle.
August 25, 2025

The Ten Best Bike Routes in Europe

At Backroads, we’ve been biking around Europe for over three decades. Here are what we think are the best cycling destinations on the continent. From vineyards to castles, from the Dalmatian Coast to the Bavarian Alps- our top 10 biking regions in Europe.

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Iceland Waterfalls
August 25, 2025

Top Five Places to Travel in November

There's no doubt about it—winter is on the horizon. And while it might not be perfect beach weather outside, there's still plenty of vacationing to do! From warm weather sojourns south of the equator to snowy vacations up north, the month of November offers plenty of excitement for you and your family, no matter what kind of travel experience you're after.

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Group of people on top of a cliff looking down at grassy hills
August 19, 2025

More Riviera than Meets the Eye

Meaning ‘coastline’ in Italian, the term Riviera originated in northwestern Italy to define the area surrounding the city of Genoa. Now, every country promotes its own version of a Riviera as a promise of a perfect seafront or lakefront vacation. Let’s narrow in on three European Rivieras worth a visit: one you probably know, and two you may not.

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Evening, city view of San Francisco with houses illuminated by lights
August 14, 2025

24 Hours in San Francisco

There's something about San Francisco. Something that sets it apart from other major world cities. Is it the natural setting: a hilly peninsula surrounded on three sides by indigo Pacific waters? Perhaps it’s the postcard-perfect aesthetic: the parade of ornate pastel Victorians alongside a riot of street art? Or maybe it’s the culture: an energy and ideology that pushes ever forward, testing the edges of what society deems normal, from polyamory to self-driving cars.

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Quebec
July 29, 2025

The Nine Most European Cities in North America

Rich in culture, full of charm and steeped in fascinating history, European towns and cities have captivated travelers from across the pond for centuries. Enticed to sample the local delicacies, take in unique architecture and cultivate a better understanding of their rich history, North Americans often yearn to spend quality time in the "old world." Surprisingly, much of the magic one can see, taste and smell in Europe can also be experienced in a handful of particularly special cities across North America. Next time you're looking to get away, consider visiting one our favorite Euro-style American cities.

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Town full of white and brown buildings with a church bell tower in the center
July 24, 2025

Seven Things We Love About the Canary Islands

Just off the northwest coast of Africa, right by Morocco, this Spanish archipelago boasts dazzling beaches, dramatic landscapes and a rich blend of cultural influences. Its seven islands hold a world of wonders from volcanic terrain to white-sand beaches. Still undiscovered by North American tourists, the islands have a relaxed international vibe, perfect for vacation.

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Two hands holding up glasses of champagne
July 8, 2025

The Most Romantic Cities to Bookend Your Backroads Trip

Some cities are made for love. Whether it’s the dreamy canals of Venice or the Eiffel tower twinkling against a sunset sky, certain places have that irrepressible spark. If you’re looking for the perfect backdrop for a couple's getaway, look no further. We’ve paired our favorite romantic cities with Backroads trips that begin or end nearby — ideal for a blissful, extended vacation. 

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Outdoor hot tub surrounded by tall plants and trees
June 27, 2025

As Seen on Screen: The 8 Best Trips for Movie & TV Buffs

We love watching Hollywood make fantastical worlds out of some of our favorite travel destinations, but there’s nothing quite like experiencing them in real life.

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Active river cutting through two large mountains
June 24, 2025

Yellowstone National Park in Every Season

Yellowstone became the world’s first national park in 1872, when President Ulysses S. Grant set the land apart “as a public park or pleasuring ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” This vast natural space of over 2 million acres has served exactly that purpose for over 150 years now.

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