Slow Travel: How to Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination

If you’ve ever come home from vacation feeling like you need another vacation, you’re not the only one. Between packed itineraries, rushing from one tourist attraction to the next, and barely having time to sit still, traditional travel can feel more like a sprint than a getaway. What is the alternative? Slow travel, a growing movement that’s less about checking off sights and more about savoring moments.

What Exactly is Slow Travel?

At its core, slow tourism is about depth over breadth. Instead of hopping through five cities in seven days, you might spend a week, or even a month, in one destination. The point of slow travel is to experience a city like a local. Find that corner café you want to keep going back to, wander through the local markets, taste the local dishes until you know your favorites, or just walk through the neighborhood until it starts to feel like home.

Is Slow Travel Another Trend That’ll Phase Out?

Yes and no. It’s definitely having a moment, but unlike some travel trends, the slow travel trend is rooted in something timeless: being present and stress-free. It is the opposite of over-scheduled itineraries. And honestly, after years of hustle culture, who doesn’t want to slow down? That’s why all-inclusive resorts are experiencing a boom in interest, because people are burned out and they don’t have the energy to plan a whole trip.

Why is Slow Travel the Best Way to Travel?

• Wellness: Slowing down reduces stress and leaves space to actually relax.
• Unique experiences: You stumble into hidden gems you’d never see if you had an itinerary.
• Creative Inspiration: More time in one place sparks creativity. Perfect for writers, artists, or anyone with a creative block.
• Budget-friendly: Longer stays often mean better deals.
• Remote work friendly: If you can work from anywhere, why not make “anywhere” a slow travel destination?

Can You Do Slow Travel with Kids?

Absolutely. In fact, slow travel with kids can be easier than fast-paced sightseeing. Kids thrive on routine, and sticking around one spot means fewer meltdowns and more time to settle into a rhythm. A long-term family trip might even give you the chance to connect more deeply. Imagine visiting farmers’ markets together, weekend day trips, and lazy afternoons in your stay.

So, is Slow Travel Worth It?

If your goal is meaningful cultural exploration, memorable experiences, and a travel style that doesn’t leave you exhausted, slow travel is worth every second.

Planning for Longer Trips

Find Accommodation

A good base is everything. Unlike a weekend getaway, slow travel stays need to feel like home. That means finding accommodations with essentials like a full kitchen (because dining out every night gets old fast), in-unit laundry, fast Wi-Fi, and a dedicated workspace for remote work. Hotels can be cramped, and vacation rentals a hit-or-miss. This is where monthly stays or long-term stays come through.

Budgeting

Extended trips can be surprisingly affordable if you plan well. Factor in the savings from cooking at home and booking extended stays with better pricing.

Planning Early

For popular destinations (and especially for off-season travel destinations when you’re chasing better prices and avoiding crowds), book early to get the best deals and availability.

Try a Short Trip First

Not sure if you’ll enjoy staying in a city for longer than a week? Do a city escape or a short stay before committing to a month. It’s a great way to test the waters.

Best Slow Travel Destinations in the U.S.

Here are some top picks for where to begin your slow travel journey:

Asheville, NC: Blue Ridge Mountain Views, Craft Breweries, and Artsy Charm

A hub for artsy souls, craft beer lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Perfect for adventure and wellness seekers alike.

• Budget: Moderate. Cheaper than big cities but pricier than small towns.
• Best for: Couples, solo travelers, or remote workers who want a mountain-meets-city vibe.
• Best time to go: Autumn for stunning foliage.
• What to do: Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, check out local galleries, and sip at rooftop breweries.
• Where to stay in Asheville: Nova at Biltmore Park makes it easy to settle in for a slower pace, with a full kitchen, dedicated workspace, and fast Wi-Fi. Spend your downtime by the pools, on the tennis courts, or strolling the nearby shops and restaurants at Biltmore Park.
• Pro tip: Book ahead for fall. The city fills up fast.

Savannah, GA: Historic Squares, Riverfront Strolls, and Southern Hospitality

Savannah feels like it was made for slow tourism. With moss-draped oaks, cobblestone squares, and a pace of life that leans relaxed, it’s ideal for those craving charm and cultural exploration.

• Budget: Moderate. Affordable compared to big cities, but prices can spike during spring festivals.
• Best for: Couples looking for romance, history buffs, or solo travelers who love strolling scenic streets.
• Best time to go: Spring (azaleas in bloom) or fall (off-peak travel brings fewer crowds).
• What to do: Wander Forsyth Park, take a historic walking tour, sip cocktails in speakeasy-style bars, or do day road trips to Tybee Island.
• Where to stay in Savannah: The Line offers fully-furnished apartments with a full kitchen, perfect for lingering over morning coffee. Outside your door, enjoy premium amenities, take in historic downtown Savannah from the rooftop terrace or work remotely in the coworking lounge between explorations.
• Pro tip: The city is very walkable, bring comfy shoes!

Charleston, SC: Cobblestone Streets, Lowcountry Cuisine, and Coastal Beauty

Known for pastel architecture, food that rivals any city in the U.S., and Southern charm, Charleston is a dream slow travel destination with plenty of things to do in Charleston.

• Budget: Higher. Charleston can be pricey, especially in peak summer.
• Best for: Foodies, families, or remote workers looking for a stylish yet laid-back setting.
• Best time to go: Spring and fall for mild weather and smaller crowds.
• What to do: Take a carriage ride through historic streets, enjoy farm-to-table dining, browse local markets, hit nearby beaches, or do a walking guide to the must-see Charleston spots.
• Where to stay in Charleston: The best neighborhood to stay in Charleston depends on your vibe. 35 Folly gives you a fully-furnished home with a full kitchen, in-unit laundry, and fast Wi-Fi. Unwind at the saltwater pool, yoga studio, or outdoor courtyards after wandering the Lowcountry’s beaches and charming streets.
• Pro tip: Book restaurants early. Charleston’s dining scene is popular year-round. And if you’re considering an extended stay or even relocating, check out everything you need to know about Charleston, or the complete guide to moving to Charleston. And if you want to fit right in, here’s how to live like a local in Charleston.

Dunedin, FL: Laid-Back Beaches, Biking Trails, and Small-Town Charm

A hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Dunedin blends small-town charm with access to some of the best beaches in the state. It’s a perfect off-season travel destination for anyone avoiding Florida’s busier hubs.

• Budget: Moderate. Cheaper than Miami or Tampa, but beachfront still comes at a premium.
• Best for: Families wanting beach time, or wellness seekers craving a laid-back coastal stay.
• Best time to go: Winter and spring for sunshine without the summer crowds.
• What to do: Bike along the Pinellas Trail, explore Honeymoon Island State Park, browse quirky local shops, or take a sunset cruise.
• Where to stay in Dunedin: The Carlisle at Dunedin lets you settle into a fully-furnished apartment with a full kitchen, in-unit laundry, and fast Wi-Fi. Take advantage of the fitness center, pet spa, and bike station while being steps from downtown’s cafés and shops.
• Pro tip: The city hosts year-round festivals. Check the calendar before you go for extra unique local experiences.

New Orleans, LA: Live Jazz, Creole Flavors, and Colorful Culture

More than Mardi Gras, New Orleans is one of the best slow travel destinations for cultural exploration and music-filled nights. It’s a city that invites you to linger, listen, and eat your way through.

• Budget: Wide range. You can keep it budget-friendly or go luxe.
• Best for: Music lovers, foodies, solo travelers, or remote workers who want vibrant surroundings.
• Best time to go: Fall is prime (post-hurricane season, fewer crowds), though winter can be lovely too.
• What to do: Listen to live jazz, explore the French Quarter, take a swamp tour, or enjoy a beignet breakfast. If you’re traveling during Halloween, don’t miss the French Quarter’s most haunted spots.
• Where to stay in New Orleans: Canal 1535 has fully-furnished apartments with a full kitchen, in-unit laundry, and a dedicated workspace, perfect for extended stays. Lounge by the heated pool, take in views from the rooftop deck, or step outside to explore the Canal Streetcar line and the French Quarter.
• Pro tip: If you’re avoiding crowds, skip Mardi Gras and aim for off-peak travel months for better pricing and availability.

Find Your Next Slow Travel Destination with Landing

Slow travel isn’t just about where you go, it’s about how you go. It’s choosing to linger, connect, and experience destinations in a way that feels meaningful, not rushed. 

Whether you’re planning a family trip, testing the waters with solo traveling, or dreaming of working remotely from new cities, slow travel destinations are calling. And when you’re ready to start your journey, Landing makes it easy to book fully-furnished extended stays in over 250+ U.S. cities. Stay in stylish apartments with full kitchens, fast Wi-Fi, premium amenities, 24/7 support, and everything you need for your slow travel adventure.