• Dubrovnik rooftop view

January Travel News

Hi from Rick: What You Need to Know as We Travel Into 2025

Clinging like a barnacle to Dubrovnik's thick walls, perched over the Adriatic, a peaceful stone terrace with white umbrellas marks a rustic tavern called Buža. The name means "hole in the wall"…and that's exactly what I climb through to get there. Stepping out into the fresh sea air, I settle in among a mellow crowd, tune in to the natural static of waves lapping beneath my feet, and sip my Croatian beer.

A couple years ago, this fairy-tale town caught some unnecessary travel drama, when it was widely reported that Dubrovnik had outlawed roller bags to reduce congestion on its steep, cobblestone walkways. Tourists scrambled to replace their luggage, and some even changed their itineraries altogether. But it was all just a rumor, based on an idea that was briefly discussed (and rejected) at a city meeting. All the freakouts, bag swaps, and rebooked trips were pointless… Read more

In this issue


Backpackers at train station, Cinque Terre, Italy

Europe Trip Itinerary Tips

Turning a wish list into a day-by-day itinerary for your European vacation isn't just smart, it's fun. Filling in the blanks between the flight out and the flight home is one of the more pleasurable parts… Read more


Couple walking the walls, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Wandering Dubrovnik’s City Walls

Dubrovnik, on the southernmost tip of Croatia, is the most visited spot along this renowned coast, and its most picturesque. No one who's taken in this time-warp city — whether from land or sea… Read more


Headshot of gondolier, Venice, Italy

Venice’s Access Fee Is Back in 2025

Do you need to register online and pay a €5–10 "Access Fee" if you're going to Venice in 2025? It depends on which day you're visiting — and if you're staying the night… Read more


Cameron Hewitt in the Balkans

Cameron’s Blog: 10 European Discoveries for 2025 — Balkans Edition

Last fall, Cameron Hewitt traveled extensively through the Balkans and now he's sharing 10 lesser-known destinations he discovered in his recent travels… Read more


Rick Steves Experiencing Europe title

Rick’s New One-Hour Special: Experiencing Europe

In this entertaining, information-packed hour, join Rick Steves as he shares lessons from a lifetime of travel. With Europe as our classroom, we'll learn the essential skills for smart travel… Watch the trailer


the-2025-travel-festival

The 2025 Travel Festival

Join us for this eight-night virtual travel series, designed to help you anticipate the trends and challenges you might encounter on the road in Europe in the year ahead… Register


Tower of London, London, England

Slideshow: Best of London, Day by Day

London has just what you need for a quick escape: direct flights, the best live theater scene on the planet, an inviting pub on every corner, and the simple pleasure of conversing with Europeans… Read more


hippie-trail-book-cover

Stow Away on the Hippie Trail

Pre-order your copy of Rick's newest book, On the Hippie Trail from Istanbul to Kathmandu and the Making of a Travel Writer, and join Rick on an adventure of a lifetime… Read more