Carmel-by-the-Sea, the charming seaside village on California's Central Coast is a microcosm of California's architectural heritage where artists, academics, and writers embraced the arts-and-crafts aesthetic.
Only one-square-mile, the village's fairytale architecture transports visitors into a Charles Dickens-inspired wonderland where the stone-paved alleyways and curlicue-roofed shops provide a picture-perfect backdrop for quaint strolls down the street
The walkability of the village is the perfect backdrop for walking tours (mask requirements and social distancing protocols put into place).
Visitors can experience Carmel-by-the-Sea's rich art culture and culinary experience through any of the four walking tours:
- For a guided experience through the art town, Gael Gallagher's Carmel Walks provides a leisurely two-hour guided walk through secret passageways and courtyards, and by storybook gardens and cottages. The tour is $30 per person and takes place Tuesday through Friday at 10 a.m., and Saturday at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Book your tour at gaelgallagher.com/carmel-walks.html.
- The Historic Walking Tour is a self-guided and free walking tour showing off the best historic and architectural-magnificent buildings in the village like the Cypress Inn and the Hansel & Gretel Houses. The self-guided tour begins at The First Murphy House, and more information can be found at https://www.carmelcalifornia.com/scenic-runs-hikes-and-walks.htm
- The Carmel Food Tours is the best way to indulge in the award-winning culinary scene through a guided Standing Room Only Food Tour for $69 a person. The tour includes two glorious hours of food, drink, history, and camaraderie for up to eight people. The tour takes visitors to five to six stops at iconic Carmel-by-the-Sea restaurants for portable food and drinks, all outdoors. Book ahead at carmelfoodtour.com
- Discover 4-6 of the best exhibits and artists at the Carmel Art Tours with knowledgeable guides taking you on the path less traveled. These guides will take you through charming passageways and secret gardens, with stops along the way for a visit with an artist at work in their Carmel studio. The guided tour lasts 90 minutes and costs $30 per person. Book ahead at carmelarttours.com
