Three days is the sweet spot, ideally paired with a trip to Mallorca and Madrid. Here's everything I've loved, all in one place.

Friendly tips

• Pickpocketing is very common - be incredibly vigilant at all times, especially with your phone + wallet

• It’s always busy and full of tourists

• Book Gaudí sites well in advance, especially over summer

• Dinner is typically later here - 8pm at the earliest

• Most locals speak Catalan first

Neighborhoods

• Eixample: elegant neighborhood, home to most of the Gaudí sites, great restaurants and shopping (Passeig de Gràcia)

• Gràcia: bohemian vibe, full of independent cafés, local bars, and pretty plazas

• La Ribera: trendy and walkable, great mix of restaurants, cocktail bars, and boutiques

• Barri Gòtic: the historic old town, medieval streets, touristy but worth exploring

• Barceloneta: the beach neighborhood, seafood, sangria, and summer vibes

• Poblenou: up-and-coming, former industrial district turned creative hub

• Sant Pere: quieter than La Ribera but similar feel, great for wandering

• Sarrià-Sant Gervasi: residential, leafy, upscale, great to escape the buzz

Eats

Cafés, bakeries, & sweet treats

• Three Marks Coffee: specialty roastery and café in Eixample with beans roasted in-house and an airy space. must try: flat white, cardamom bun

• Bar la Camila: tiny vintage-vibe café with no menu and no wifi, run by two friends

• Salut Bistró: all-day bistro serving modern Spanish & Catalan plates like tuna toast, orzo with roe, and brioche with caviar

• Nomad Coffee Bar: specialty coffee from one of Barcelona's top roasters, tucked down a leafy pedestrian alley

• Pastelería Hofmann: award-winning pastry shop with a wide variety of sweet and savory treats. must try: mascarpone croissant

• Brunells: historic pastry shop with award-winning croissants and premium coffee. must try: stuffed croissant

• Funky Eatery: lively all-day bistro, gourmet grocery and coffee shop with artisanal breads, pastries, and modern dishes using local ingredients

• Paral·lelo: artisan Italian gelato with creative seasonal flavors

• delaCrem: artisan ice cream with creative seasonal flavors

Tapas

• Bar Cañete: my favorite tapas spot from the whole trip - still dreaming about that squid sandwich. get there ~30 minutes before they open for lunch - there will already be a line. must try: fried Cordoba-style aubergine, squid sandwich, lobster croquette, veal meatball, green bean salad, hazelnut coulant

• Ciutat Comtal: classic, always-busy, loved-by-locals tapas bar, great for a quick lunch. must try: codfish with honey “allioli”, mini hamburger & cheese, fried artichokes

• Vinitus: part of the same family as Ciutat Comtal, solid spot for a quick bite. must try: beef tenderloin, Spanish omelette, red shrimps, mushrooms & asparagus, churros & chocolate

• La Pepita: artsy, modern tapas bar serving creative Catalan plates - book ahead for dinner. must try: pitcher of sangria, smoked aubergine fritters, “canpepi” fried chicken, Iberian croquette, sautéed beef tenderloin, artichoke hummus

• Babula Bar 1937: tapas and cocktail bar serving unique fusion dishes made from seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. must try: spheres filled with salmon tartare, bluefin tuna fricandó, taco our way, grandma’s rostit cannelloni

• Cal Pep: Barcelona's most famous tapas counter with a daily changing menu based on whatever’s fresh from the seafood auction that day. must try: Spanish tortilla with chorizo, tuna tartare

• El Xampanyet: nearly century-old tapas bar pouring house cava alongside traditional plates in a cozy blue-tiled space. must try: tortilla, anchovies

• Petit Tapas: modern tapas bar in Barri Gòtic serving seasonal, fusion dishes in a cozy atmosphere

Markets

• Mercat de la Boqueria: Barcelona's most famous market just off La Rambla - fresh produce, meats, artisan cheeses, specialty foods, and local delicacies

• Mercat de Sant Antoni: more local, less touristy - fresh produce, local shopping, food stalls, and a Sunday books/collectibles flea market

• Mercat Gòtic: historic flea market full of antiques and collectibles

Restaurants

• Fismuler: Barcelona outpost of my favorite Madrid restaurant - beautiful industrial space, impeccable service, creative Spanish cooking with Nordic touches, live guitar some evenings. must try: leek and truffled mortadella tart (!!!), escalope San Román with egg and truffle, braised carrots, tarta de queso

• Albé: Michelin-guide gastrobar serving Catalan dishes with a Lebanese touch in a sleek, dimly-lit space

• BENZiNA: industrial-chic Italian spot with traditional dishes and contemporary twists. must try: the carbonara

• Berbena: inventive Catalan restaurant with seasonal plates and Mediterranean, Asian, and South American influences

• Llamber: trendy, brick-walled restaurant serving creative takes on Asturian and Catalan classics

• Clara: small menu, seasonal Catalan tapas and reinterpreted classics in a stylish space

• Bar Puntal: cozy natural wine and tapas spot near La Rambla, focused on local, seasonal ingredients

Drinks

• Masa: trendy, youthful natural wine bar with a robust selection of Eastern European labels and creative seasonal dishes

• Bar Salvatge: lively natural wine bar with biodynamic and unconventional vintages on tap and a cozy cheese-and-charcuterie menu

• Bar Brutal: natural wine bar with excellent small plates using organic, locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients

• Glug: Michelin-guide wine bar with fun organic dishes and a great natural wine selection

• Sips: award-winning cocktail bar that elevates the drinking experience

• Paradiso: theatrical cocktail presentations with rare ingredients - currently #4 on the World’s 50 Best Bars list

• Two Schmucks: vibrant, underground cocktail bar with creative drinks, great music, and a fun vibe

Museums & sights

• Sagrada Família: Barcelona’s most iconic sight and one of the world’s most ambitious architectural projects - finally complete after 144 years. book well in advance

• Park Güell: whimsical Gaudí park known for its colorful mosaics, organic architecture, and panoramic views. book well in advance

• Casa Batlló: Gaudí's surreal, dragon-inspired building on Passeig de Gràcia

• Casa Milà: another Gaudí icon, known for its wave-like stone facade

• Picasso Museum: one of the largest collections of Picasso's work, housed in medieval palaces in El Born

• Parc de la Ciutadella: one of the most green spaces in the city - a monumental fountain, beautiful greenhouse, and rowboats on the lake

Shops

• Passeig de Gràcia: the city's main shopping boulevard full of luxurious international designers - Loewe, Celine, Prada, Fendi, Hermès, to name a few

• Ivori: tiny boutique stocking only Catalan designers and local artisans

• Bon Vent: Mediterranean-inspired store with linen, glassware, ceramics and textiles in sun-washed tones

• Carner Barcelona: Barcelona-based perfume brand with niche scents inspired by the Mediterranean

• Santa Eulalia: family-owned luxury department store on Passeig de Gràcia stocking Spanish labels alongside international designers

• Hey Shop: the retail arm of Hey Studio, one of Barcelona's best-known creative studios - graphic prints, stationery, and playful design objects

Stays

• Sonder Paseo de Gracia: sleek, well-priced hotel with unbeatable location for the Gaudí sites and shopping - loved our stay here

• Casa Bonay: the coolest boutique hotel in the city, dressed in Catalan tiles and natural wines, with Satan's Coffee in the lobby and a rooftop bar in summer

• The Barcelona EDITION: 5-star hotel next to the Picasso Museum in El Born, with a rooftop pool and the Punch Room cocktail bar

• The Hoxton Poblenou: the Hoxton's Barcelona outpost in the city's coolest up-and-coming neighborhood, with a rooftop pool, great restaurant, and laid-back chic vibes

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and reach out if you’re ever interested in a fully custom trip itinerary!! <3

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I’ve been three times now, and it’s a mandatory stop for me whenever I’m in Spain - partly for the shopping and the stroll through Retiro Park, and partly because by day 14 I desperately need to eat something that isn't jamón. If it’s your first time, plan for at least 4-5 days, ideally in late May/early June or October if you can.

Whether you’re a first-timer or going back for round two, here’s everything I’ve loved, all in one place.

Friendly tips

• Madrid runs late: lunch is 2-4pm, dinner doesn’t really start until 8-9pm, and nights out can easily go until 6am

• Book popular restaurants well in advance, especially on weekends

• Most museums are free on Sunday evenings

• A majority of places take card - I never had to take out cash

Neighborhoods

• Salamanca: upscale and polished, tree-lined streets, designer boutiques, great for a fancy lunch, my personal fav - recommend staying around here

• Retiro: quiet and residential, borders the park, lovely for an afternoon wander

• Malasaña: grungy, indie record shops, vintage stores, great bar scene

• Trafalgar: residential and relaxed, pretty streets, local cafés and wine bars

• Chueca: colorful and energetic, LGBTQ+ hub, great restaurants and cocktail bars

• Justicia: charming and central, great restaurants and a real neighborhood feel

• Huertas: lively tapas bars, tons of cocktail bars, close to the big museums

• La Latina: old Madrid charm, cobblestone streets

• Sol / Centro: the touristy heart of the city, worth seeing but you probably won’t eat or stay here

• Chamberí: low-key local favorite, beautiful architecture, neighborhood restaurants without the tourist markup

Eats

Cafés, bakeries, & sweet treats

• Alma Nomad Bakery: organic sourdough and unique pastries made with seasonal ingredients - one of my fav spots. must try: chocolate hazelnut croissant, pistachio praline roll, seasonal galettes, focaccia sandwiches

• Acid Bakehouse: specialty coffee and artisanal bakes from one of Madrid's most beloved roasters. must try: cardamom bun, cinnamon roll, almond croissant

• Ciento Treinta Grados: specialty coffee roaster and bakery inspired by global pastry traditions. must try: monkey bread, pistachio pain au chocolat

• Cuadra: an Argentine-born bakery and café with its own in-house obrador. known for their flaky medialunas, dulce de leche pastries, and pressed croissant sandwiches

• Pum Pum Bakery: has a cool industrial-chic vibe with great croissants and weekend brunch. must try: pistachio croissant, avocado toast, granola bowl

• Ambu Coffee: one of the most popular coffee shops in the city. try any of their rotating batch brews

• Osom Coffee Atelier: Nordic-minimalist specialty café with great matcha and a healthy brunch menu

• Alex Cordobés: a cult destination for tarta de queso in creative rotating flavors

• Chocolatería San Ginés: a Madrid institution since 1894, open 24/7, tucked in a narrow alley near Plaza Mayor. must try: churros con chocolate

• Myka: greek frozen yogurt spot with various flavors and healthy toppings

• Cora: pretty café with great gelato, coffee, and brunch

Tapas & lunch

• Ultramarinos Quintín: came for lunch multiple times - incredibly fresh ingredients and a lively atmosphere. must try: mortadella plate, mixed salad

• Sala de Despiece 2: one of the coolest dining experiences in Madrid. a butcher-shop-style tapas bar where every dish is made in front of you like a science experiment. must try: the artichoke (!!!), rolex, chuletón langostine

• El Perro y la Galleta: pet-friendly, relaxed lunch with a great local vibe

• Casa Canito: trendy, modern tapas bar with retro 80s decor and a lively crowd

• Casa Dani: popular, long-running counter in Mercado de la Paz, famous for their tortilla

• Casa Lucio: a Madrid icon since 1974, known for huevos rotos, bull’s tail stew, and crispy suckling pig

• Casa Macareno: traditional Spanish tavern serving creative tapas and one of the best tarta de quesos in the city

• La Burlona Bar: stylish, cozy tapas bar with innovative small plates and an extensive wine list

• Tasca Celso y Manolo: retro-chic spot with modern twists on tapas and tomato salads

Markets

• Mercado de San Miguel: touristy but beautiful market right by Plaza Mayor, great for grazing on tapas and wine

• Mercado de San Fernando: more low-key and local, in the heart of Lavapiés, full of multicultural food stalls and cheap drinks

• Mercado de la Paz: neighborhood market in Salamanca, famous for Casa Dani's tortilla, ideal lunch stop

• Mercado San Antón: three-floor market in Chueca with fresh produce on the ground floor and tapas and rooftop dining above

• El Rastro flea market: Madrid’s famous Sunday flea market in La Latina full of antiques and vintage clothes. tip: go in the morning before it gets too packed

Restaurants

• Fismuler: a truly memorable meal - beautiful industrial space, impeccable service, creative Spanish cooking with Nordic touches, live guitar some evenings. must try: leek and truffled mortadella tart (!!!), escalope San Román with egg and truffle, sea bream carpaccio, roasted rainbow carrots, tarta de queso

• Casa Benigna: feels like eating in grandma’s kitchen. classic Spanish dishes with Norwegian influence, famous for paella, and the freshest table-side butter. must try: Norwegian smoked salmon (!!!), aubergine with duck, paella

• Quispe: one of the best Peruvian restaurants in Madrid, elegant and buzzy with delicious sushi. must try: lomo saltado, classic ceviche, nikkei de atún, maki acebichado

• TRAMO: a Michelin Green Star restaurant focused on sustainability and market-driven cooking, in a stunning 1950s industrial space

• Roostiq: Spanish restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table cooking, known for wood-fired pizzas with local ingredients and Mediterranean specialties

• PaiPái: elegant atmosphere with fireplaces, bookcases & wicker lights, specializing in fusion cuisine - Spanish plates with Asian and Peruvian flavors

• Amazónico: elaborate jungle-themed restaurant with a sushi bar, open kitchen, and a jazz club below. must try: espeto (whole fish over wood fire), anything from the sushi bar

Drinks

• GOTA: dim lighting, vibey natural wine bar with small bites and vinyl. must try: polenta frita and tuna crudo with a glass of chilled red

• Gastón: wine bar by day, dance floor by night - vinyl DJs, great small bites, and an espresso martini that people specifically come back for

• Masa: buzzy natural wine bar championing female and family-run winemakers all around Europe. a younger, cooler crowd, tends to get busy

• GLOP VINOS: low-key, laidback natural wine bar with homemade dishes. must try: bikini de butifarra, albóndigas

• Tresiiies: specialty coffee by day, natural wine bar by night. a sweet little spot in the historic Centro neighborhood with a warm, hole-in-the-wall feel

• FIVE: intimate, contemporary natural wine bar near the Royal Palace with an incredible seasonal small plates menu. must try: gnocchi with barbecued quail, steak tartare, monkfish

• Fun Fun: cozy, eclectic, art-covered spot near La Latina that focuses exclusively on Spanish natural wines and plant-based small plates

• Ficus Bar: African-inspired botanical cocktail bar with lush plants, dim candlelight, and creative drinks

• Masaru: tiny Japanese whisky and cocktail bar with crafty drinks

• Los 33: classic Spanish cocktail bar with a retro vibe, popular with a cool local crowd, great for a nightcap

Museums & sights

• Parque del Retiro: Madrid’s version of Central Park, full of gardens, sculptures, a glass Crystal Palace, and a large lake where you can rent a rowboat

• Museo del Prado: one of the world's greatest art museums, home to Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and more

• Museo Reina Sofía: Spain’s national museum of modern art, home of Picasso’s Guernica.

• Plaza Mayor: the grand historic square at the heart of old Madrid - baroque architecture, street performers, right by Mercado de San Miguel

• Palacio Real de Madrid: the official residence of the Spanish royal family and one of the largest palaces in Europe. the exterior is stunning even if you skip inside

• Jardines de Sabatini: formal gardens right next to the Palacio Real with beautiful views

• Teatro Real: Madrid's stunning opera house. recommend walking by at night

Shops

• WOW Concept: a stunning concept store full of contemporary and luxury brands, sneakers, beauty, home, and more

• El Corte Inglés: Spain's iconic department store full of designer and local brands as well as a food hall full of Spanish goods. recommend the Salamanca location

• Salamanca district: known for its "Golden Mile" of luxury shopping along Calle Serrano, high-end fashion and local Spanish brands

• Ekseption: multi-brand boutique with an exclusive selection of international fashion designers and luxury accessories

• Isolée: tiny concept store in Salamanca stocking hard-to-find international brands

• Ramsos: Spanish brand known for cool basics and affordable linens

• Massimo Dutti: headquartered in Spain so prices are better here than anywhere else - elevated basics, great quality

• Unisa: popular Spanish shoe brand - stylish, comfortable, reasonably priced

• Sessùn: French brand with effortlessly chic women’s clothing

Stays

• H10 Puerto de Alcalá: a solid stay in Salamanca, steps from Retiro Park. comfortable rooms, rooftop terrace with a pool and panoramic views, great location for shopping and the park

• The Madrid EDITION: beautiful ultra-modern design hotel if you want to splurge. located in el Centro, gorgeous rooftop pool, multiple restaurants, cool cocktail bar, and a fun nightclub

• BLESS Hotel Madrid: refined hotel on the “Golden Mile” featuring art deco design, a rooftop cocktail lounge, and a private spa, all set in a historic villa

• Only YOU Boutique Hotel: urban-chic design hotel near Retiro with a buzzy lobby café, rooftop terrace bar, and rooms that feel more like an apartment than a hotel

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and reach out if you’re ever interested in a fully custom trip itinerary!! <3

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My mom and I spent four days / five nights there and felt like it was the perfect amount of time, but could definitely extend our vacation if reality wasn’t calling for us. We stayed central in Palma but branched off to a new beach and town each day, only spending the evenings back in the city center. Everywhere we ventured off to was typically only 30 minutes to an hour away, so we were able to maximize our time out by the beach, in the village, and enjoying a nice dinner before heading back to Palma.

Every year, at least one person asks for my Mallorca recommendations (this one’s for you, Misa), so it’s about time I put together this guide with it all.

Friendly tips

• Renting a car is necessary - you’ll need to drive everywhere, but it’s pretty easy to get around

• Stay in Palma - central to everything so it makes day trips to beaches and villages much easier

• Book restaurants in advance - the best spots fill up fast, especially in summer

• Arrive early to the smaller calas - they get packed by mid-morning and could be difficult to find parking

• Spend a couple days in Madrid before flying into Palma, and a couple days in Barcelona afterwards, or vice versa

Towns

• Palma: the island’s capital and your home base. 14th-century old town with a stunning cathedral, boutique shops, and great restaurant scene

• Valldemossa: a scenic mountain village with stone-cobbled streets and flower-filled courtyards

• Deià: a romantic hillside village with terracotta rooftops, olive groves, and the majestic Belmond hotel

• Sóller: a charming inland town full of cafés and boutiques, close to Port de Sóller

• Pollença: one of the most beautiful towns in the north, with a famous 365-step cypress-lined staircase

• Santanyí: a peaceful sandstone market town close to some of the most stunning calas on the island

Beaches

• Caló des Moro: a tiny, sheltered cove with dramatic rocky cliffs and the most impossibly turquoise water on the island; get there early, parking is tricky

• Cala s’Almunia: another turquoise cove just minutes from Caló des Moro, slightly less crowded and just as beautiful

• Cala Llombards: a sandy cove near Santanyí with clear shallow water and a small beach bar, great for a full beach day

• Cala Santanyí: a wider, golden sand beach with hotels, beach chairs, and restaurants nearby; the most accessible of the southeast calas

• Cala Esmeralda: a quieter, vivid turquoise cove that’s not as busy as its neighbors

• Cala Deià: a legendary pebble cove below the village of Deià with an iconic beach bar and mountains dropping straight into the sea

• Cala Blava: a small, easy-to-reach rocky cove just south of Palma, great for a quick swim without the drive

• Cala Pi: a sandy cove with plenty of space to lay out and deep turquoise water

• Es Trenc: Mallorca's most famous wild beach, a long stretch of white sand and clear Caribbean-blue water

Stay

• Hotel Cort: a small boutique hotel in the heart of Palma’s old town where every room is uniquely designed and breakfast at their café is consistently the best start to the morning

• Hotel Cappuccino: a design-forward, elegantly located hotel attached to the beloved Cappuccino café

• Can Alomar Hotel: a beautifully restored 17th-century palace in central Palma with a rooftop terrace

• Belmond La Residencia: the iconic luxury manor in Deià set among olive and citrus trees, with a beautiful restaurant and outdoor café overlooking the most scenic views

• Hacienda Son Antem: a countryside estate south of Palma with a spa, pools, and golf course

Food & drink

• Mistral Coffee: a reliable coffee shop with an all-day food menu

• de moniö: a quaint coffee shop and vegetarian kitchen that also sells ceramics and artisanal goods

• Miga de Nube: a cozy coffee and art shop with a peaceful back garden in Sóller

• La Rosa Vermutería: an amazing tapas bar with vintage decor. must try: organic seasonal tomatoes, patatas braves, garlic prawns, ham croquettes, Spanish omelette

• Fornet de la Soca: a 400-year-old family-run bakery using only local ingredients. must try: seasonal fruit tart

• Rivareno: some of the best gelato I’ve ever had; we went every single night. must try: chocolate orange, chocolate hazelnut

• Sea Club - Cap Rocat: a cliffside restaurant with one of the most romantic sunset views on the island. must try: Mallorcan-style sea bass

• De Tokio a Lima: an incredible rooftop restaurant in the heart of Palma with Mediterranean, Peruvian & Japanese fusion cuisine. must try: Iberian pork tacos, shrimp fritters, braised eggplant, hamachi tiradito

• El Camino: a modern, stylish tapas restaurant with a long bar and a buzzy atmosphere

• Abaco: an elaborate cocktail bar in the courtyard of a mansion

• Coloma: an all-day bistro and wine bar in old town Palma

4-day itinerary

A loose day-by-day breakdown of beaches, towns, and where we ate.

Day 1

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Cala Blava

• Cala Pi

• Wander Palma

• Dinner: De Tokio a Lima

• Dessert: Rivareno

Day 2

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Valldemossa

• Deià

• Lunch on the front patio at Belmond La Residencia

• Sóller

• Afternoon coffee in the back garden at Miga de Nube

• Wander Palma and grab a local dinner

• Dessert: Rivareno

Day 3

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Caló des Moro

• Cala Lombards

• Cala Santanyí

• Santanyí town

• Dinner: Sea Club - Cap Rocat

Day 4

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Pollença

• Wander Palma

• Lunch: La Rosa Vermutería

• Afternoon coffee + sweet treat: Mistral Coffee + Fornet de la Soca

• Dinner: sushi at the hotel café

• Dessert: Rivareno

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and reach out if you’re ever interested in a fully custom trip itinerary!! <3

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CDMX is one of those cities that completely rewires you. The food culture alone is worth the flight: from Michelin-starred restaurants to $3 tacos that will ruin all future tacos for you. We ate tacos every day, sometimes twice a day. Layered on top is some of the most striking architecture, beautiful parks, museums rich in history, neighborhoods that each feel like a distinct city within the city, and a nightlife scene that makes every other city feel like it goes to bed too early.

My boyfriend and I had six nights, did an absurd amount, and still barely scratched the surface. This is everything we loved, in one place.

Friendly tips

• Very high altitude so drink lots of water and take it easy the first day

• Rainy season runs June - October so pack a light rain jacket + umbrella

• Sidewalks are insanely uneven so wear closed-toe shoes

• Book popular restaurants exactly 30 days out; even cocktail bars need a res

• Carry cash; some food spots and vendors at markets are cash-only

• Uber is super cheap and the easiest way to get around

Neighborhoods

• Roma Norte: heart of the city full of cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife

• Juárez: adjacent to Roma, slightly hipper, lots of independent fashion and design boutiques

• Cibeles: quiet, residential, close to Roma and Juárez (we stayed here)

• Condesa: Art Deco architecture, tree-lined roundabouts, coffee shops, boutiques

• Polanco: upscale and polished, designer boutiques, fine dining

• El Centro: historic downtown full of murals, palaces, and history

• San Ángel: cobblestone colonial neighborhood in the south, known for El Bazaar Sábado

• Coyoacán: bohemian and colorful, Frida Kahlo country, locals neighborhood

Eats

Cafés & bakeries

• Panadería Rosetta: probably the most popular café and bakery in CMDX, known for the guava and cream cheese pastry (can confirm it’s great). must try: guava & cream cheese pastry, chocolate croissant, zucchini & squash blossom quiche

• Cafe Nin: charming café by the same team as Panadería Rosetta, great for breakfast. must try: scrambled eggs with squash blossoms & ricotta, french toast with roasted peaches, huevos rancheros

• HULE: local café and record store, great for breakfast. must try: chai latte, greek yogurt bowl with granola & berries, avocado toast with egg

• Panaderia Gala: a speakeasy-style bakery known for seasonal croissants

• Odette: bakery known for their strawberry kouign amman and galletas

Tacos

• Maizajo: the best tacos of the trip, and possibly the best I’ve ever had. Michelin guide, fresh corn tortillas, standing room, food made right in front of you. must try: suadero (!!!), longaniza, costilla de res, ribeye

• Expendio de Maiz: Michelin star, cash-only, no sign, no menu, only four communal tables. get there right when it opens at 9am and order until you say stop. known for corn tortillas, sopes, and huaraches dressed in a variety of seasonal ingredients

• Taqueria Orinoco: a staple taqueria that almost feels like CDMX’s version of an In-N-Out. must try: trompo

• Tacos del Valle: Michelin guide taqueria known for their tender pork and beef cooked on the trompo. always a line, but worth it. must try: trompo orden mixta, jamaica style mezcal

• Cariñito Tacos: Michelin guide Asian-Mexican fusion tacos. must try: issan, cantones

• Taco Frontera (San Ángel): a local taqueria recommended by a friend who goes 2-3 times per week. must try: pastor tacos, pastor gringa, cebollitas, house flan

Restaurants

• Maximo: Michelin star, romantic upscale dinner. menu changes daily based on what’s in season. our lucky highlights: scallops aguachile, king fish sashimi, burrata with pesto and figs, and an incredible melt-in-your-mouth wagyu steak

• Rosetta: Michelin star, cozy restaurant with a seasonal menu. go upstairs for a drink before dinner. must try: cabbage tacos (most popular dish), corn tamales, pappardelle with spicy Italian sausage, red snapper with pineapple puree, hoja santa & white cacao criollo dessert

• Contramar: incredibly high-quality seafood. very hard to get a reservation - book exactly 30 days in advance, first thing in the morning. walk-in wait is typically a few hours, but I’d argue it’s worth it. must try: ceviche contramar, tostadas de atún (!!!), sopes con esmedregal al pastor, pescado a la talla

• Wabi Sushi: possibly the best sushi I’ve ever had. high-quality, fresh fish and melt-in-your-mouth wagyu. must try: wagyu tataki, seared nigiri plate, mixed sashimi plate, toro ginza roll

• Other locals’ recs: Taverna, Abrasamar, Campobaja, Marmota, Pujol, Ticuchi, Masala y Maiz, Fugaz, Ismo

Drinks

• Tlecān: dark, vibey mezcal cocktail bar with some of the best drinks I’ve ever had. must try: tascalate sour (!!!), paloma blanca, margarita, negroni cacao

• Form + Matter: my boyfriend’s favorite cocktail of the trip. drink presentation is superb. must try: lychee martini, M&M

• Marmota: vibey indoor-outdoor bar with fruity and herby cocktails and natural wine. must try: mezcal a

• Departamento: cool late-night spot with multiple floors and different DJs on each. worth the wait in line

• Salon Palomilla: cute open rooftop bar for cocktails. reserve via WhatsApp well in advance - they fill up fast

• Other recs: Cometa Disco, Cafe Paraiso, Pistilo, Hiya Wine Bar, Dacopa, Tierra Seca, Cafe de Nadie, Libreria Valladolid, Shhh, Tokyo Music Bar, Handshake

Sights & activities

• Parque Quetzalcóatl: my favorite activity of the whole trip. a stunning organic architecture project by Javier Senosiain - colorful, whimsical, almost feels like you’re in Alice in Wonderland. it’s a private estate about 45 minutes outside the city, so book a tour and driver in advance

• Casa Gilardi: a traditionally designed Mexican house by minimalist architect Luis Barragán. book tickets in advance and try to arrive around 11:30am for peak sunlight hitting the colors

• El Bazaar Sábado: huge indoor-outdoor artisanal market in San Ángel, Saturdays only. great mezcal tasting, mole, ceramics, silver jewelry

• Mercado de Coyoacán: large market full of art, artisanal goods, costumes, and food

• Biblioteca Vasconcelos: crazy library that feels like Interstellar. about ~20 min from Roma Norte by uber

• Museo Nacional de Antropología: Mexico’s largest and most-visited museum full of significant archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian heritage. you could definitely spend a full day in here but we limited ourselves to a few hours

• Bosque de Chapultepec: one of the largest urban parks in the world, bigger than Central Park. tons of museums, botanical gardens, and event spaces within the park. note: closed on Mondays

• Lucha Libre: a classic CDMX experience. highly recommend getting one of the hats before the show

• Museo Del Palacio de Bellas Artes: Mexico’s first art museum, in the city center. smaller but full of beautiful murals worth seeing

• Museo Frida Kahlo: Frida Kahlo’s house turned museum in Coyoacán. book tickets well in advance

• Casa Luis Barragan: the preserved home and studio of Luis Barragán. book tickets in advance

Shops

Roma Norte

• Ex Boyfriend: sustainable upcycled Mexican fashion made from reclaimed fabrics

• Erre Vintage: hand-picked vintage with an eclectic, globally-sourced selection

• Goodbye Folk: cool urban vintage

• The Mexa Society: multi-brand concept store, core of Mexican fashion

• Banzo: contemporary Mexican clothing with a clean, minimal aesthetic

• Serge Basics: elevated everyday basics with a twist, made in Mexico

• Originario: gallery-like showroom of contemporary Mexican furniture

• Lengua: jewelry-only concept store

Juarez

• Xinu Perfumes: niche Mexican perfumery, beautiful store

• Boyfriend’s Shirt: deconstructed slow-fashion unisex clothing

• Mutuo: timeless, high-quality pieces made in CDMX

• Nin Studio: sculptural, avant-garde fashion

• Marsella 68: curated independent fashion boutique

• A Mesa Puesta: beautiful Mexican tableware, textiles, and home goods

• Utilitario Mexicano: simple, useful, beautiful home objects made in Mexico

• Ánima Sustentable: bulk pantry, personal care, and home goods

Condesa

• Perfumérica: artisanal Mexican perfumes, can customize the bottle, very affordable

• Laguna Cyprien: refined home and body scents

• Proyecto Rufina: small-batch clothing and ceramics made from natural fibers

• La Bodega de Proyecto Rufina: the home goods offshoot of Proyecto Rufina

• Void: five themed rooms of curated luxury vintage in a 1930s Condesa house

• Cardon: Mexican and Latin American design across clothing and accessories

Polanco

• Massimo Dutti

• Designer shops

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and reach out if you’re ever interested in a fully custom trip itinerary!! <3

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Growing up in Irvine, I was pretty spoiled when it came to beaches. Newport and Laguna were basically in my backyard, and since Irvine is its own suburban bubble, I spent most of my free time exploring both. A typical summer day looked like picking up a C'est Si Bon sandwich, spending a few hours at the beach, grabbing a Kéan Coffee affogato, strolling through Lido Marina Village, digging into Bear Flag poke, and catching the sunset at Lookout Point. So without further ado, here’s a local’s guide to Newport Beach.

Coffee shops + cafés

• Haute Cakes Cafe: a staple brunch spot with a cute courtyard in the Westcliff center. must try: orange ricotta haute cakes and asparagus + goat cheese scramble

• Juliette’s Cafe & Coffee Culture: high-quality coffee, pastries, tartines, breakfast plates, sandwiches & salads. must try: shakshuka, prosciutto & egg tartine, eggs benedict, turkey sandwich

• Kéan Coffee: OC’s original artisan coffee roaster. my go-to for an affogato after a beach day

• KIT Coffee: specialty matcha drinks in a light, airy space that's great for getting work done

• Alta Coffee: a true Newport staple. order the iced half vanilla half spiced chai latte and thank me later

• Herst Coffee Roasters: grab a coffee and pastry here before strolling through Lido Marina Village

• La La Land: the LA staple just landed in Lido and it’s worth the wait. must try: French toast matcha latte

• Zinc Café: my favorite brunch spot after walking around the CDM houses. the whole menu is incredible, but highlights include: scrambled eggs & leeks, asparagus & mushroom omelette, avocado toast, middle eastern breakfast, zinc granola, and breakfast bar

• Reborn Coffee: a solid, easy stop for coffee or matcha in CDM

• Huskins Coffee: one of my favorite weekend rituals. grab a matcha and do a full lap around the Balboa Island houses

Casual bites + sweet treats

• Bear Flag: a MUST, probably my favorite spot in all of OC. the freshest fish, and it hits even harder after a beach day. both the Crystal Cove and Lido locations have great outdoor seating. must try: tuna poke bowl, tuna poke + chips, ceviche + chips, blackened fish tacos, bear flag burrito, salmon sandwich, I could go on…

• C’est Si Bon: grew up grabbing custom sandwiches and chocolate croissants here before every beach day. their baguettes are so fresh that Bear Flag actually uses them for the salmon sandwich

• Vibe Organic Kitchen: for the health and wellness crowd. everything is organic and free of gluten, seed oils, refined sugars, and soy. love picking up a smoothie after a beach day. must try: macro bowl, fiesta bowl, breakfast buzz smoothie, chunky monkey smoothie, green junkie smoothie, coco loco smoothie

• Flower Child: a healthy, casual spot that’s great for takeout. must try: glow bowl, mother earth bowl, forbidden rice bowl, red chile glazed sweet potatoes, roasted heirloom carrots

• Goop Kitchen: technically in Costa Mesa but deserves an honorable mention. great for picking up a guilt-free lunch to enjoy at the beach. must try: cobb salad, best arugula salad, summer salad rolls, chicken caesar wrap, any of their pizzas (genuinely my all-time favorite pizza), japanese sweet potatoes, brownie

• Wild Taco: Baja vibes, fresh ingredients, local wild-caught fish, all-natural hormone-free meat. I dream about their al pastor burrito, tacos, and nachos

• Crystal Cove Shake Shack: nothing beats a burger, milkshake, and stunning beach view. pro tip: you can mix & match flavors - oreo + peanut butter cup is the move

• Sugarfish: another LA classic that made its way to OC. simple, fresh sashimi and nigiri on warm rice. go early and sit at the bar, or grab a takeout box to enjoy by the beach. must try: "trust me" + unagi

• Go Greek: the best $20 froyo you'll have. packed with protein and probiotics, lower sugar and calories, and healthy toppings. must try: greek honey and chocolate with chocolate-covered cacao nibs and strawberries

• Bacio di Latte: I'd argue their gelato rivals, if not beats, gelato in Italy. all of the chocolate flavors are incredible, and you can get Nutella or pistachio cream layered on the bottom of your cup or cone. must try: chocolate hazelnut (like eating straight Nutella), Belgian chocolate, triple chocolate

• Gelato Paradiso: an authentic Italian gelato spot I grew up going to. must try: dark chocolate hazelnut, Belgian chocolate, raspberry sorbet, strawberry sorbet

Restaurants

• Gulfstream: the Hillstone chain can do no wrong, and this one is a favorite since it specializes in seafood. must try: grilled artichokes, pan-seared tuna salad, emerald kale & rotisserie chicken salad, true dover sole, cedar plank roasted salmon

• R&D Kitchen: the more casual Hillstone spot in Fashion Island, known for sandwiches and salads. must try: cheeseburger, carnitas sandwich, French dip, ding’s crispy chicken sandwich, the newporter salad

• Bandera: the Hillstone spot in Corona Del Mar, known for wood-fired rotisserie chicken and hearty American cuisine with a Southwestern twist. must try: bandera-style roasted chicken, barbecue beef ribs, cornbread bites, macho salad, dip duo

• Palmilla: a fun Mexican spot with unique margarita flavors, perfect for GNO. must try: guac trio, short rib taquitos, shrimp tacos, filet mignon fajitas, chicken fajitas

• JOEY: a great dinner spot in Fashion Island for big groups. must try: mini short rib French dips, Japanese gyoza, katsu chicken salad, seared salmon sushi, steak & sushi, sushi cones

• SOTA Sushi: my absolute fav sushi spot. the fish is incredibly fresh and rolls are next level. must try: tuna crispy rice, yellowtail carpaccio, Cabo roll, ma-g-de? roll, sota pop roll, yellow submarine roll

• Café Sakana: another great, lowkey sushi spot specializing in unique rolls. sit outside on the patio on a nice summer evening if you can. must try: spicy tuna crispy rice, seared black cod nigiri, fresh water eel nigiri, toro green onion cut roll, truffle shuffle roll, osaka roll, jay roll

• Starfish: incredible Asian coastal cuisine drawing from Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Japan. must try: lobster macadamia roll, candy dragon prawns, wild Thai halibut in banana leaf, grilled white miso black cod, Hong Kong lemon chicken. get the coconut rice with all the mains, non-negotiable

• Zinque: a cute date night spot by the water in Lido Marina Village, also great for brunch or lunch. must try: salmon tartare, le bowl, steak frites, grilled salmon, rigatoncini bolognese

• Malibu Farm Lido: farm-to-table in Lido Marina Village, works for brunch, lunch, or dinner. must try: Newport nachos, local ceviche, DIY pan-seared branzino tacos, miso tahini salmon, vegan coconut curry, mustard lemon half chicken

• Skal Pizza: the sister restaurant to Malibu Farm, specializing in farm-to-table wood-fired pizzas. must try: wood fired carrots, sunflower ratatouille, butternut squash & sage pizza, pineapple & spanish chorizo pizza

• Javier’s Crystal Cove: an upscale Mexican spot, great for large groups and celebrations. must try: enchilada & taco plate, enchiladas poblanas, steak fajitas, esquites, margs

Shops

• Lido Marina Village: stylish waterfront area village with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants with outdoor seating. fav shops: Clare V., Alchemy Works, Eberjey, Dôen, Goop, Love Shack Fancy, The RealReal, Aesop, Le Labo, Sugar Paper

• Fashion Island: outdoor shopping mall full of classic retail shops, department stores, and restaurants

Beaches + views + activities

• Newport Beach: recommend anywhere from 40th to 56th street. parking gets tough, especially on weekends in the summer, so plan to get there early

• Balboa Island: great for a leisurely stroll around the island to check out the houses and cute boutiques. especially love going around Christmas for the Balboa boat parade and when the houses go all out on decorations

• Lookout Point (CDM): one of the best views in all of Newport. a short cliffside walk above CDM state beach with stunning panoramic views of the coastline. recommend going for sunset

• Jet skiing: a perfect summer activity. rent jet skis from Balboa Water Sports and head out to the open water. we rode alongside dolphins last July!

• Duffy boat: ideal for a celebration or gathering. bring your own snacks and drinks and cruise through the Newport channel

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and reach out if you’re ever interested in a fully custom trip itinerary!! <3

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Olive oil tastings, wine tastings, honey tastings, some of the most memorable meals I've had, and the cutest little shops you'll want to spend hours in. It has this slow, cozy feel that makes you never want to leave.

My boyfriend and I did a 2-night stay back in December and I’ve recommended it to basically everyone since. Here’s everything worth knowing before you go.

Ojai Itinerary

Stay

• Hummingbird Inn: where we stayed and loved - super cute, cozy, and chic, Spanish cottage-style meets modern sensibilities

• Capri Hotel: mid-century modern retreat right next door, same owners as Hummingbird Inn, same cozy and chic energy

• The Ojai Valley Inn: the luxury option - known for its pool, Spa Ojai, restaurant, and golf course

Eat

• Rory’s Place: my favorite meal of the trip! still dreaming about their Japanese sweet potato, and figuring out how to recreate it. must-orders: oysters, daily crudo, herb salad (my boyfriend and I still talk about this), hanger steak, and whatever the seasonal dessert is - we had the sticky persimmon cake and it was unreal. make a res in advance

• Rory’s Other Place: their cozy café next door with daily baked goods, quiches, sandwiches, great coffee, and that gorgeous matcha soft-serve you’ve definitely seen all over Instagram

• The Dutchess: this breakfast really hit the spot - perfect breakfast plate, breakfast sandwich, waffle, cappuccino, and chocolate chip cookie. would love to come back for dinner

• Izakaya Full Moon: super cozy spot for sushi and izakaya - the nigiris are all great (especially the serrano pepper kanpachi), and the steak and chicken skewers are a must. get there right when they open at 5pm and expect a wait

• Ojai Ice Cream: local ice cream shop with new flavors every week using Straus dairy and local farm partnerships. can't go wrong with a classic cookies and cream scoop

• Ojai Rôtie: was dying to try this spot, but they’re closed the two days we were there (Mondays and Tuesdays). the Lebanese rotisserie chicken platters look unreal

• Pinyon: wood-fired pizzeria, sourdough bakery, and natural wine shop sourcing everything from local farmers and artisans. on my list for the next trip

Drink

• The Naturalist: one of the best stumble-upons of the trip. all natural, pure, and organic wines - reds are their speciality. I bought bottles of the lepidopterist and merlot bc I couldn’t leave without them. the staff was also incredibly friendly, let us pick the vinyl, gave us a ton of Ojai recs, and even brought their dog

• Ojai Valley Brewery & Side Street Wine: another spot we stumbled upon while waiting for Izakaya Full Moon. they craft their own beers, wine, and NA drinks entirely on-site from locally sourced ingredients. we enjoyed a beer flight on the patio with cards, cornhole, and pool

• Majestic Oak Vineyard: we arrived just after their last seating at 5:30, so unfortunately wasn’t able to try, but their patio looks adorable and I’ve heard great things about their wine flights

Taste

• Ojai Olive Oil Company: their olive oil and vinegar sampler is amazing! we had so much fun mixing and matching different oil/vinegar combos, and each left with a few bottles - especially love their signature EVOO, rosemary infused olive oil, fig balsamic, and espresso balsamic.

• Heavenly Honey: a must for honey lovers - I was pretty blown away by how distinct each hive’s flavor profile can be. 15 raw, unfiltered honeys to try for just $8. I left with the meadowfoam and sunflower with lemon - still using them for my yogurt bowls to this day

• Ojai Olive Press: known for their “perfect pairs” - olive oil and vinegar combos that are incredibly unique. garlic olive oil + jalapeño white balsamic, persian lime olive oil + honey ginger white balsamic, chipotle olive oil + aged espresso dark balsamic, to name a few. so many to try, individually or together

Shop

• Bart’s Books: the world's largest outdoor bookstore - we spent a good chunk of time wandering the aisles and found some great reads. (just don’t go on a rainy day lol)

• Sunday’s: artistic gift and home goods store with the most fun food-shaped candles

• Fig Curated Living: tucked in a little alleyway, cute gifts and home goods - my boyfriend bought a hot sauce recipe book

• The Crystal Corner: curated crystals, jewelry, and readings - recommended by our friends from The Naturalist

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and reach out if you’re ever interested in a fully custom trip itinerary!! <3

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We started the morning at Point Reyes Station, the main town area full of local shops, bakeries, florists, and markets. First stop was Brickmaiden Breads, where we grabbed some pastries and cappuccinos and nestled into their back garden to soak up the sunshine - warm, unbothered, fresh herbs and flowers everywhere. Highly recommend the coffee cake and almond cake, though the cookies and sourdough loaves looked incredible too.

From there we wandered around the main strip and stumbled into VISIONS - a curated home goods shop with high vibration energy. Records, funky candles, coffee table books, colorful ceramics, tarot cards, and the friendliest owner who was absolutely vibing on something. Just around the corner, West Marin Culture Shop is a speciality grocer full of fermented foods (highly recommend the lemon dill sauerkraut + spicy carrot turmeric), French cheeses, natural wines, unique jams and preserves, luxury chocolates, pickled everything, and even a florist tucked inside, Flower Bed Florals. We made a couple more pitstops at Loose Joint Records and Toby’s Feed Barn before hitting the road again.

On the way to the lighthouse we stopped for a leisurely stroll through the Cypress Tree Tunnel - tall, arching cypress trees forming a canopy over the road, completely still and quietly beautiful. An absolute must. The drive from there to the lighthouse is equally stunning, coastal views stretching out on both sides the whole way. A short hike and 313 windy steps later, we made it to the tip and enjoyed some of the most expansive ocean views I've seen. Worth every step.

We ended the day at The Marshall Store for oysters on Tomales Bay - the perfect way to close it all out. Fresh oysters, smoked oysters, fish tacos, ceviche, Coke in a bottle, a deck of cards, sitting outside on the bay… hope I’ve convinced you to plan a trip out - full itinerary below!

Point Reyes Itinerary

• Point Reyes Station

  • Brickmaiden Breads: the coffee cake and almond cake are a must, would love to try their cookies and olive oil cake next time, known for their sourdough

  • West Marin Culture Shop: specialty grocer full of fermented foods (def get one of their unique sauerkraut flavors) and all the goodies for a perfect picnic: French cheeses, natural wines, jams and preserves, luxury chocolates, pickled everything

  • Flower Bed Florals: beautiful florist tucked inside the culture shop

  • VISIONS: curated home goods and high vibrations shop full of records, coffee table books, quirky candles, colorful ceramics, tarot cards

  • Toby’s Feed Barn: coffee bar and general store stocked with great CPG brands like Date Better Snacks, Fine & Raw, Hu Chocolate, Yellowbird Sriracha, Lesser Evil

  • Loose Joint Records: really cool vinyl collection worth a browse

  • Farmer’s Market: open Saturdays 9am-2pm throughout summer

• Sights + Activities

  • Cypress Tree Tunnel: about 15-20 min from Point Reyes Station, arching cypress trees forming a canopy over the road, a peaceful stroll

  • South Beach Overlook: one of the most spectacular views of Point Reyes Beach, just a short walk from the lighthouse parking lot

  • Point Reyes Lighthouse: a short hike and 313 windy steps down to some of the most scenic coastal views

  • Chimney Rock Trail: a beautiful coastal hike famous for seal sightings, didn't make it this time but would love to check it out next trip

• Food

  • The Marshall Store: incredible oysters on Tomales Bay, highly recommend fresh oysters, smoked oysters, fish tacos, and ceviche

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and reach out if you’re ever interested in a fully custom trip itinerary!! <3

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Neighborhoods

a quick lay of the land before you dive in:

• Indre By: historic city center, lots of shops

• Nørrebro: vintage, youthful energy

• Vesterbro: hip, local, slightly gritty

• Kødbyen (meatpacking): trendy, converted warehouses

• Frederiksberg: leafy, upscale, residential charm

• Østerbro: relaxed, family-friendly, underrated

• Christianshavn: bohemian vibes, canals, house boats

• Nordhavn: industrial waterfront, new development

Breakfast + cafés

nothing beats a Scandi breakfast - truly the best way to start your day

• Atelier September: the morning plate is a must (the whipped butter!! the seasonal jam!! the comté!!)

• Studio x kitchen: the folded eggs are necessary, the yogurt bowl with seasonal fruit is incredibly aesthetic, pastries are also delicious

• Apotek 57: classic Scandi design café with amazing seasonal breakfast items + unique baked goods

• Mad & Kaffe: build your breakfast plate by picking multiple small items - perfect if you want both savory and sweet in smaller portions

• Sonny: classic Scandi breakfast, also a gorg yogurt bowl

• Beau Marché: hidden cozy french café full of art and vintage home goods for sale, great toasts + salads for lunch

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Coffee + pastries

where do I even begin…

• Hart Bageri: cardamom croissant is insane!! my fav pastry from the whole trip

• Juno the Bakery: the best cardamom bun, served warm

• Lille Bakery: another noteworthy cardamom bun

• Anderson & Maillard: croissant cube is a must, also had my eyes on the cookie

• BUKA: chocolate babka is delish

• Prolog Coffee: high quality coffee, next to Hart in Meatpacking and an Østerbro location right by Juno

Casual bites

casual but incredibly high quality

• POPL Burger: the perfect cheeseburger + fries - you can really taste the quality of the meat and produce

• Gasoline Grill: famous burger for a reason, open until sold out

• Slurp Ramen Joint: legendary ramen, expect a long line

• Torvehallerne Market: great place to try smørrebrød, danish pastries, coffee, snacks & more

• Tivoli Food Hall: lots of food vendors inside Tivoli Gardens

Restaurants

options are endless - each spot really shines with seasonal produce and ingredient quality

• Esmée: my fav dinner res, super chic + cozy, modern french cuisine (rec: esmée green salad, raspberry soft serve)

• Ripotot: modern French cuisine, the testing menu is worth it

• Bæst: some of the best pizza you'll ever have

• Delphine: modern mediterranean cuisine

• Kadeau: Michelin restaurant, fine dining, tasting menu, produce-driven

• Aamanns: Michelin-recommended smørrebrød and classic Danish dishes

  • Smørrebrød is a Copenhagen staple - open-faced rye bread sandwiches piled high with pickled herring, smoked salmon, roast beef…

Drinks

copenhagen lovesss natural wine and a good cocktail

• Apollo: cutest spot by Nyhavn for drinks + light bites, try to sit in the courtyard

• Ruby: classic cocktail bar by the water

• Pompette: cute natural wine bar + light bites

• Lidkoeb House: three floors, great cocktails, tucked away in Vesterbro

• Jolene: Meatpacking bar with EDM/house music

Shopping

design heaven - for clothes and for home

• Illum: luxury department store

• Stine Goya: cool, colorful Scandi fashion

• Samsøe Samsøe: cool Scandi fashion

• Arket: simple Scandi clothes + home goods

• Tekla: lux bathrobes + towels

• Hay House: furniture & design

• New Mags: coffee table books

• Studio Arhoj: danish design ceramics

• Pico: hair accessories

• Sui Ava: hair accessories

Museums + sights + activities

so much to do, so much to see - and so close to each other

• Designmuseum Denmark: my fav!! danish & international design, could spend hours here

• Louisiana Museum of Modern Art: world-class contemporary art in a stunning setting, ~40 min outside the city but worth the trip

• Nyhavn: the colorful canal-side buildings you've seen everywhere

• Copenhagen Canal Tour: 1 hour on the water, one of the best ways to see the city

• Rosenborg Castle Gardens: beautiful green park to wander

• Church of Our Saviour: climb the spire for some of the best views in the city

• The Round Tower: another great option for panoramic views

• Copenhagen Botanical Garden: gorgeous, especially in summer

• Freetown Christiania: the famous self-governing community in Christianshavn

Where to stay

plenty of cute boutique hotels, and great airbnbs

• Hotel Sanders: intimate, beautifully designed, right in the center, Michelin key recipient

• Coco Hotel: Parisian flair in Vesterbro, eclectic and stylish, the ground floor café does espresso by day and natural wine by night

• Hotel Alexandra: basically a Danish design museum you can sleep in

• 1 Hotel: could never go wrong, great location

• NH Collection: centrally located, well-designed rooms

• SP34: design-forward, great location in the Latin Quarter

Other tips

• Getting around: the metro is great, most of the city is walkable, but renting a bike is the move

• Best time to visit: summer! the city feels so alive, long days, outdoor everything

Check out all these spots + more in my Apple Maps Guide, and message me if you’re interested in a fully custom itinerary!! <3