About
Phoenix is a major city in the southwestern United States and the capital of Arizona. It sits in the Sonoran Desert, and its climate is one of the reasons many visitors come: the city is known for its desert conditions and for sunshine that lasts through much of the year. It is also called the Valley of the Sun, a nickname that reflects both its weather and its position within a broad valley.
What to expect
Phoenix is a sprawling metropolitan area rather than a compact downtown, so getting around usually means planning your route in advance. Visitors often find that a day or two in the city is enough to take in its main areas, with more time needed if you plan to explore the surrounding desert landscape.
Who it suits
- Travellers who enjoy warm, dry weather and clear skies
- Those interested in desert scenery and the outdoors
- Visitors using the city as a base for exploring the wider state of Arizona
If you are considering a trip, the city's reliable sunshine and its position in the Arizona desert are the clearest things to plan around. Check the season you visit, since the desert climate can be very hot in summer, and pack accordingly.
