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.

Woman sitting on a bed in a glass dome, with the Northern Lights in the sky
August 28, 2025

Best Trips to See the Northern Lights

The aurora borealis, or the northern lights, are truly a spectacle. We’ve all seen those stunning photos of green, pink, purple, blue, and indigo curtains dancing through the sky. It’s something many of us dream of seeing in our lifetime, and we’re here to tell you that 2024 is the year to see them.

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people bike through a covered bridge
August 28, 2025

Vietnam: Southeast Asia’s Adventure Capital

In 2024, Vietnam became the fastest growing tourist country in Southeast Asia, surpassing Singapore with a total of 17.5 million foreign visitors. Did White Lotus Season 3 have a hand in the influx of foreign tourism? Maybe. But the bigger story? Vietnam has emerged as an affordable, foodie destinat…

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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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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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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 vi…

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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…

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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 o…

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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 tourist…

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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…

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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. These star corners of the globe have been featured in famous films and television series – check out the list below and join us to become…

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