Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Cairns & The Tropical North
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Berlin Dungeon
The Berlin Dungeon takes visitors on an hour-long journey through the city’s dark history, from the Middle Ages through the 19th century. While exploring the 2,500 square meters of the Dungeon, you will experience the thin line between humor and terror thanks to the various areas with different themes based on real events in Berlin's history, as well as nine different shows performed in both German and English by live actors.
Gripping storytelling, special effects and rides bring the history to life in a way that's both funny and scary. You'll meet characters from Berlin's past, such as twisted Monk Pater Roderich and infamous serial killer Carl Grossmann. Experience a river raft ride, the Elevator of Doom, the Labyrinth of the Lost, the deadly plague in Kloster Strasse, the fearsome torture chamber and the legend of the White Lady. The Berlin Dungeon occasionally has special events for certain holidays, like Halloween and Christmas.
Practical Info
The Berlin Dungeon is located at Spandauer Straße 2 in Berlin Mitte, between Hackeschen Markt and Alexander Platz. Opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily most of the year. Tickets are 20 euros at the door.
Address: Spandauer Straße 2, Berlin, Germany
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily most of the year.
Admission: 20 Euros at the door
From $ 19
Berlin Wall
At the height of the Cold War in 1961, socialist East Germany erected the Berlin Wall as an imposing concrete barrier that divided Berlin's eastern and western sides for nearly 30 years. In 1989, toward the end of the war and the fall of East Germany and communism in Europe, the wall's demolition began, thus reunifying Germany. Today, sections of the wall remain as permanent reminders of the days when the country (and Berlin) was divided.
The Basics
On Bernauer Strasse, the Berlin Wall Memorial is made up of an original section of the wall and a gun turret. Visit the memorial and various portions of the wall on a small-group tour to learn about the area's history among other travelers, or on a private historian-led tour for an in-depth, personalized experience. Bike tours, Segway tours, and walking tours are all great ways to see the wall's various remaining sections spread across the city, as well as Checkpoint Charlie, the infamous border-crossing spot between the two sides.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Berlin Wall Memorial features a visitor center, where you can get an overview of Berlin wall sites and watch a historical film, plus the Documentation Center with its exhibits and the Chapel of Reconciliation, where prayers services are held.
- The longest and most interesting remaining stretch of the wall is the open-air East Side Gallery, set on Mühlenstrasse featuring murals painted by international artists in 1990 and again in 2009.
- Because Berlin's reunification was so successful, it can be difficult to tell the difference between east and west in many parts of the city. Look for the double row of cobblestones to guide you along certain sections of the wall’s course.
How to Get to the Berlin Wall
The almost 100-mile-long (160-km) Berliner Mauerweg is a multi-use path that runs along the former wall, with 40 multilingual information stations posted along the way. In other parts of the city, lengths of the wall are covered in psychedelic graffiti, like that at the East Side Gallery on Mühlenstrasse. Sections of the wall also remain near the former site of the Gestapo headquarters.
When to Get There
The Berlin Wall Memorial on Bernauer Strasse is open daily from 8am to 10pm. The visitor center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am until 6 or 7pm, depending on the season. The East Side Gallery is always available to visit, and the Museum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie is open daily from 9am to 10pm.
Berlin Sights Along the Wall
It's ironic that Berlin's most popular attraction, for the most part, no longer exists. Because the Berlin Wall disappears and reappears around the city, you can see several of the German capital's most important landmarks as you visit the wall. Museum Island, Potsdamer Platz, and the Brandenburg Gate can be seen easily on a bicycle tour, weather permitting.
Address: Mühlenstraße, Berlin 10243, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom)
The imposing Berlin Cathedral dominates the eastern end of Unter den Linden and Museum Island. With its three copper-roofed domes and richly decorated interior with gilded decorations, Berliner Dom (as it’s called in German) is one of the few landmark buildings in the area that was not destroyed in World War II.
The Basics
Berlin Cathedral was finished in 1905, although there has been a church on this site since the 1500s. At the time of construction, the neo-Renaissance structure was considered the Protestant equivalent to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and was the parish church of the Prussian royal family—some of whom are interred in the Hohenzollern crypt under the church. The interior is highly decorative, with carved walls, gilt edges, and large-scale paintings; one of the cathedral’s most famous works is the marble and onyx altar by Friedrich August Stüler. Many visitors come to marvel at the enormous domed ceiling, which you can climb for panoramic views of the area. There is also an on-site museum that details the church’s construction.
Many guided bus and walking tours of the city visit the cathedral, sightseeing cruises pass by its facade, and hop-on hop-off tours stop here. Entry is via paid ticket, which is covered by a Berlin Pass. Self-guided audio tours are available, and 20-minute guided tours are included with the entry fee; special organ tours and demonstrations are for an additional fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Berlin Cathedral is a must-visit for religious architecture enthusiasts and first-time visitors to the city.
- Look for the American-made elevator, installed at the wish of Kaiser Wilhelm II when the cathedral was built.
- The church is accessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Berlin Cathedral is located on Museum Island in the Mitte district. The nearest S-Bahn station is Hackescher Markt.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open daily for visits and guided tours. Visitors are not permitted to enter during church services unless they are attending the service.
Unter den Linden
A stroll along the tree-lined Unter den Linden is a must for first-time visitors to Berlin. The shady boulevard draws locals and travelers alike to its cafés and restaurants, and in the evening the illuminated trees create a romantic atmosphere. Many of the city’s top attractions and monuments, including the State Opera House and German Historical Museum, are found here.
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Address: Am Lustgarten, Berlin 10178, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
Berggruen Museum
A few years after the Berlin Wall came down, the director of Berlin museums made an offer to art lover Heinz Berggruen to display his collection in a vacant building now known as the Berggruen Museum, one of the most important museums of modern art in Berlin.
Berggruen's impressive collection of Pablo Picasso's work includes more than 120 pieces. It is a broad collection ranging from Picasso's early work as a teenager in the late 1800s and pieces from his cubist period all the way up to his later works from before his death in 1973.
The museum also houses a collection of art from Paul Klee. There are 70 pieces on display, including some from early in his career, others from his time as a teacher and watercolors from just before his death in 1940.
Later works from Henri Matisse and Alberto Giacometti are also on display at the Museum Berggruen. Other artists include Georges Braque, Henri Laurens and Paul Cézanne. You can also see a collection of African sculptures at the museum.
Practical Info
Museum Berggruen is located at Schloßstraße 1. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The museum is closed on Monday.
Address: Schloßstraße 1, Berlin 14059, Germany
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday 11am-6pm; closed Monday
Admission: Adults EUR10
From $ 23
Beylerbeyi Palace
Located on the shores of the Bosphorus, on the Asian side of Istanbul, the Beylerbeyi Palace was a summer residence for Ottoman sultans and a guest house to entertain foreign heads of state. Sultan Abdulaziz ordered the construction of the palace in 1863 and it formally opened two years later. Over the years, it hosted visitors such as Empress Eugenie of France, Emperor Joseph of Austria-Hungary, Crown Prince Oscar of Sweden and Nasireddin, the Shah of Iran. It also served as the last place of captivity for deposed Sultan Abdulhamid II, who lived there until his death in 1918.
The two-story stone palace consists of six halls, 24 rooms, one hamam and one bathroom. The interior decorations mix Western neo-classical elements and traditional Ottoman design, with much of the furniture coming from Europe. The elegant reception hall is known as the Hall with Mother-of-Pearl and leads to a fine seaside room covered with rich wood paneling. The Hall with Pool and the Blue Hall make up the center of the palace, the former featuring a large oval pool in its center and the latter named after its sixteen blue columns.
On the grounds of the Beylerbeyi Palace, you will find exquisite garden terraces and several annexes, including bathing houses and stables.
The two-story stone palace consists of six halls, 24 rooms, one hamam and one bathroom. The interior decorations mix Western neo-classical elements and traditional Ottoman design, with much of the furniture coming from Europe. The elegant reception hall is known as the Hall with Mother-of-Pearl and leads to a fine seaside room covered with rich wood paneling. The Hall with Pool and the Blue Hall make up the center of the palace, the former featuring a large oval pool in its center and the latter named after its sixteen blue columns.
On the grounds of the Beylerbeyi Palace, you will find exquisite garden terraces and several annexes, including bathing houses and stables.
Practical Information
Beylerbeyi Palace is located on Abdullaha Aga Caddesi in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul. You can spot it while on a Bosphorus cruise, but to explore the palace, you will need to either find a ferry directly to Beylerbeyi or take a ferry to Uskudar and from there catch a bus north to Beylerbeyi. The palace is open for visitors 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., daily except Mondays and Thursdays. Admission is 20 Turkish Lira.
Address: Turkey
From $ 15
Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur, once medieval Kathmandu Valley’s seat of power, earns its accolade as Nepal’s best-preserved city. The earthquake of 2015 claimed many historic buildings, but the one-time flourishing kingdom is still packed with old-world charm. Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and heart of the city, is well-worth a visit.
The Basics
The former city-state of Bhaktapur, the most powerful of the three Malla Kingdoms in the Kathmandu Valley, retains a medieval ambiance. Unlike Kathmandu and Patan, it is mainly car-free, so the stunning heritage city gives visitors a sense of centuries-ago lifestyles during royal times in Nepal. Durbar Square, now an open-air museum, contains impressive ancient royal landmarks, including the intricately wood-carved Palace of Fifty-Five Windows and the 17th-century Lion Gate.
Independent travelers can soak up the ambiance with a stroll through Bhaktapur’s cobblestoned streets and red-brick lanes, but visitors wanting more in-depth background information on the one-time kingdom’s history and culture should opt for a guided walking tour. Most excursions have morning or afternoon options and cover all the top heritage sites in Durbar Square—plus little-known corners of the city favored by locals.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square is a must-see for history buffs and heritage enthusiasts.
- Don’t forget to taste juju dhau, or “king’s yogurt,” a Bhaktapur delicacy.
- Dress comfortably with proper footwear for cobblestoned streets and uneven surfaces.
- Be prepared for a lot of walking, since the UNESCO-listed Old City is mainly vehicle-free.
How to Get There
Taxi rentals are available from Kathmandu and can be arranged through most hotels. But, the majority of sightseeing tours offer round-trip car transfers, usually with private hotel pickup—by far the easiest way to travel to Bhaktapur. Some tours to Nagarkot, including trekking excursions, also cover sightseeing visits to Bhaktapur en route.
When to Get There
Kathmandu Valley has a mild climate, making Bhaktapur an ideal year-round destination. Time your visit for October to catch Tihar, the Nepali festival of lights, when the city lights up with clay candles to honor the Hindu goddess of wealth, Laxmi. The Nepali New Year every April is celebrated with street processions led by gilded chariots.
Bhaktapur Hiking
For a complete cultural immersion, take a hike through stone villages and terraced farmlands in the Kathmandu Valley, home to multiple Nepali ethnic groups, but mainly the Newars. Trekking routes that begin in Bhaktapur usually ascend to the hilltop resort of Nagarkot, famous for its sunrise and sunset panoramas over the Himalayan mountain chain (on clear days, this even includes Mount Everest).
Address: Bhaktapur, Nepal
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Berlengas Archipelago
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a popular destination for hikers, snorkelers, and divers, the Berlengas archipelago is a collection of small islands and reefs off the coast of Peniche, Portugal. Only one of the islands is inhabited, and the unspoiled scenery and secret sandy coves draw visitors from far and wide.
The Basics
Some 6 miles (10 kilometers) off the Portuguese coast, none of the Berlengas islands has a permanent population. The biggest island, Berlenga Grande, is famous for its 17th-century fort—Fort St. John the Baptist (Forte de São João Baptista)—connected to the land via a precarious stone causeway. Before the fort was constructed a monastery existed on the same site, but it was abandoned after frequent raids from pirates.
The area around the islands is a protected zone for the preservation of local birds and sea life, and only fairly small numbers of tourists are permitted per year. Visitors take the ferry from the mainland or visit Berlenga Grande as part of an all-day guided tour from Lisbon. From the harbor area, you can hike to one of the beaches or see the fort before returning to the mainland.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Access to Berlenga Grande is via boat only.
- The island has uneven terrain and is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
- Glass-bottom boat tours visit the caves around the island’s exterior.
- There is a café/restaurant on the island, but it is advisable to bring extra water with you.
- The fort also serves as an overnight hostel for visitors.
- The waters around the Berlengas are popular with divers and snorkelers.
How to Get There
The Berlengas archipelago is located off the coast of Portugal, approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the coastal town of Peniche. Visitors can take the seasonal ferry from Peniche to the harbor on Berlenga Grande or take part in a guided boat tour with round-trip transfers provided.
When to Get There
Boat tours and passenger ferries visit Berlenga Grande in the summer months only—the sea is too rough in the winter for small boats to operate. Ferries run from late May to mid-September.
Exploring the Town of Peniche
The jumping-off point for boat tours and ferry rides across to the Berlengas archipelago, Peniche town is worth a stop too. Visitors interested in history can tour the fortress that housed political prisoners of 20th-century Portuguese dictator António de Oliveira Salazar. Those looking to relax can take a seat on one of the sandy beaches that draw local surfers or head to a seafood restaurant serving up the catch of the day.
Address: Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 92
Beyoglu
Beyoglu is a cosmpolitan district on the European side of Istanbul that includes both Taksim Square and the famous Istiklal Caddesi. Located just north of the Golden Horn and connected to the old city center by the Galata Bridge, Beyoglu is the city’s modern center of shopping, entertainment and nightlife.
The area around Beyoglu has been inhabited since the time of Christ and grew as a city as early as the 5th century. Known then as Galata, it was also the site of a fortress built by Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II. Eventually, it became a base for European merchants and was alternately controlled by the Genoese and the Venetians before being settled primarily by Turks in the 15th century.
By the mid-19th century, Beyoglu again had a European flavor, with international diplomats and traders settling in the district and making it the most Westernized part of Istanbul. Even today, numerous consulates remain in the area.
In addition to the shopping, dining and nightlife around Istiklal and Taksim Square, Beyoglu is home to a variety of museums, including the Pera Museum (exhibiting art from the late Ottoman Period), the Dogancay Museum (showcasing works by artist Burhan Dogancay) and the Jewish Museum of Turkey. You can also find Turkey’s largest Catholic church and largest synagogue in Beyoglu.
The area around Beyoglu has been inhabited since the time of Christ and grew as a city as early as the 5th century. Known then as Galata, it was also the site of a fortress built by Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II. Eventually, it became a base for European merchants and was alternately controlled by the Genoese and the Venetians before being settled primarily by Turks in the 15th century.
By the mid-19th century, Beyoglu again had a European flavor, with international diplomats and traders settling in the district and making it the most Westernized part of Istanbul. Even today, numerous consulates remain in the area.
In addition to the shopping, dining and nightlife around Istiklal and Taksim Square, Beyoglu is home to a variety of museums, including the Pera Museum (exhibiting art from the late Ottoman Period), the Dogancay Museum (showcasing works by artist Burhan Dogancay) and the Jewish Museum of Turkey. You can also find Turkey’s largest Catholic church and largest synagogue in Beyoglu.
Practical Information
Beyoglu is easily accessible from most parts of the city by tram, metro, ferry or on foot. Trams and metro trains stop in several places around the district and ferries run regularly to and from the Asian side of Istanbul. Coming from Sultanahment or Eminonu, it is an easy walk over the Galata Bridge.
Address: Turkey
From $ 12
Berkeley Memorial
The Berkeley Memorial is a historic green structure presiding over Basseterre’s main center in the middle of the Circus. It features a fountain and a clock with four different faces, each of them positioned in the direction of the four streets leading to the Circus. The memorial is in honor of Thomas Berkeley, a president of the General Council in the 1880s.
You can visit the Berkeley Memorial as part of a walking tour through Basseterre, taking in the National Museum, the courthouse and the town’s churches. Visiting the memorial can also be combined with a sightseeing trip to Brimstone Hill Fortress and a visit to the beach. To really appreciate the landscape, history, and culture of St Kitts, join a full- or half-day island panoramic tour.
Insider’s Tip: Though the climate in St Kitts is tropical, you might want to note that Basseterre's rainy season runs from May to November when selecting a walking tour of the city.
Practical Info
The Berkeley Memorial is hard to miss if you’re in Basseterre. It’s located in the center of the Circus (named after London’s Piccadilly Circus).
Address: The ‘Circus’, Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis
From $ 25
Bethlehem
An ancient city in the West Bank in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Bethlehem is home to many significant religious sites, including the Church of The Nativity in Manger Square, believed by Christians to be the birthplace of Jesus.
The Basics
Many visitors to Bethlehem come to experience the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square, thought to be the place where Jesus was born. The ancient structure and adjoining Franciscan Church of St. Catherine are incredible to walk through. Other sights like Rachel's tomb, the Mosque of Omar, and the Milk Grotto Chapel are fascinating to explore and Bethlehem's Old City is fun to wander through with shops, open markets, and beautiful architecture. Many guided tours include a visit to Bethlehem on their itineraries
Things to Know Before You Go
- Always carry your passport with you while traveling to the West Bank, as you’ll be asked to show it at Israeli checkpoints
- Be aware that you will be crossing borders from Israel into the Occupied Palestinian Territories; you’ll need to plan transportation ahead of time as Israeli taxis do not cross the border
- The Church of the Nativity is a religious site and visitors are expected to dress appropriately with covered arms and legs.
How to Get There
Although Bethlehem is only located only 6 miles (9 kilometers) from Jerusalem, it can be difficult to reach. The No. 21 public bus runs from Lions Gate in the Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City to Bethlehem frequently throughout the day. Visitors can also drive if they reserve a car from a Palestinian rental service (Israeli car companies do not insure cars that go to the West Bank). There are also private shuttles, private taxi services, and guided tours which include trips to Bethlehem.
When to Get There
Bethlehem is a popular destination year round, but many pilgrims and visitors like to visit Bethlehem around Christmas when Manger Square is beautifully strung with lights.
Soloman’s Pools
Soloman’s Pools are legendary reservoirs located in southern Bethlehem on the road to Hebron. The three pools are said to have been built by King Solomon in the 1st or 2nd century to provide water to Jerusalem. In the 17th century a castle called Qal’at al Burak or citadel of the pools was built to protect the pools and today the castle is home to what is possibly the world’s largest collection of Palestinian culture and history.
Address: Israel
Admission: Free
From $ 565
Bermuda Railway Trail
The Bermuda Railway Trail is a series of trails for walkers and cyclists that follows along the path of the short-lived Bermuda Railway, which was finished being built in 1931 and ceased operation by 1948 due to it falling into massive disrepair. The Bermuda Railway Trail differs in terms of difficulty level and has sections ideal for beginner or advanced cyclists and hikers. The Bermuda Railway Trail stretches from one end of Bermuda to the other and covers 18 miles. For those wanting to experience the trail by bike, you don’t need to worry about how to pack a bicycle on a plane as there are many bike rental shops in Bermuda.
Parts of the trail are paved while other sections are still dirt. Regardless of the floor of the trail, the Bermuda Railway Trail is surrounded by the beauty of Bermuda and leads you along the coast, through inland forests and past historical sites like lighthouses and old forts. Nature reserves such as the 59-acre Spittal Pond Nature Reserve are also located along the Bermuda Railway Trail and make for a great diversion from cycling or as an added spot to hike through.
Practical Info
A common place to start the Bermuda Railway Trail is in Sandys Parrish, where you can do a scenic four mile walk or head farther into the island via bicycle. A bike rental will run you about $40 to $50 per day.
Address: Bermuda
From $ 80
Bern Cathedral (Bern Minster)
The soaring Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline of Switzerland’s capital city is dedicated to St Vincent, the patron saint of Bern; work began on the church in 1421 but the spire was not completed until 1893. At 84 meters (275 feet) long, it is the biggest religious building in Switzerland, designed in true Gothic style with flying buttresses, gargoyles and dramatic, highly painted carvings of the Last Judgment above the main portal.
Designed by master craftsman Matthäus Ensinger from Strasbourg, the interior is laid out as a three‐aisled basilica and is filled with light filtering through the glorious stained‐glass windows. The choir stalls are a later addition and are decorated with Renaissance carvings of religious scenes; the organ dates from the 1930s and is played in concerts throughout the year. The cathedral also has the tallest tower in Switzerland at 100 meters (330 feet); visitors can climb the 344 stone steps inside the spire to the lookout point for outstanding views over the rooftops of the city and across the River Aare to the snow‐capped peaks of the Bernese Oberland.
Practical Info
Open mid‐Nov–Mar Mon–Fri noon–4pm, Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 11.30am–4pm; Apr–Oct Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–5pm. Sun 11.30am–5pm. The tower closes 30 minutes earlier. Admission to the church is free but a small fee is payable to climb the tower. The cathedral is best accessed on foot through Bern’s UNESCO‐listed, cute Old Town.
Address: Münsterplatz 1, Bern 3000, Switzerland
Hours: Vary
From $ 103
Beras Basah Island
Sitting to the west of Langkawi’s archipelago of paradise islands, Beras Basah is an idyllic haven, with pristine beaches flanked by a verdant forested inland. Fully conforming to the tranquil Andaman Island ideal, a trip to the shores of Beras Basah is a popular activity for those visiting Pulau Langkawi.
Pulau Beras Basah (literal translation: “Island of Wet Rice”) benefits from remaining non-commercial, yet is still easily accessible from the main island of Langkawi. Despite the daytrippers, it retains its laid-back paradise island ambience with ease. With not much to do but relax then, Beras Basah is the ideal place to sunbathe or take a dip in the island’s inviting waters, where swimmers and snorkelers are said to spot schools of playful dolphins from time to time.
Practical Info
Although most visitors to Beras Basah Island come as part of an island-hopping tour (usually including Singa Besar Island and Dayang Bunting Island) it can also be reached by taking a boat from Langkawi Pulau at Pantai Marble (next to Kuah Jetty) or Pantai Cenang. Visitors should be aware that Beras Basah Island is small and undeveloped and, as such, there are very few amenities or conveniences on the island.
Address: Malaysia
From $ 18
Bernardine Church
As happened so often in Vilnius over the centuries, the imposing Church of St Francis and St Bernadine was built on the site of an earlier wooden church and originally formed part of the city’s defensive walls. It was built in the early 16th century as the dedicated church of a Dominican monastery nearby and is a curious mix of Gothic and Baroque styling with a multi-colored brick upper façade. Completely overshadowed by the Gothic pinnacles and spires of St Anne’s Church immediately in front of it, the Bernadine Church nevertheless had one of the finest interiors in Vilnius. It survived several fires and the ravages of war with Russia relatively intact until the Soviet occupation of Lithuania began in 1944 and the ornate interior was destroyed. Now as restoration work is in progress, the church’s 14 intricate altars, the oldest crucifix in the country and the splendidly ornate carved wooden lecterns and pulpits are slowly coming back to life.
The Bernadine Church sits tucked behind the decorative Gothic St Anne’s Church, and together with the Neo-Gothic bell tower and the monastery close by–which now houses the Vilnius Art Academy – the three buildings form the Bernadine Priory.
Practical Info
The Bernardine Church is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mass takes place every day at various times beginning at 7:30 a.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. on weekends. Admission is free.
Address: 10 Maironio Street, Vilnuis, Lithuania
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
From $ 12
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo
Fuchsia-pink flamingoes are the highlight at the on-site zoo, but it’s the fish that win all the accolades at Bermuda’s well-regarded Aquarium, one of the territory’s most popular attractions.
Audio guides provide information about the specimens displayed in each tank, which are kitted out to re-create Bermuda’s marine ecosystems.
On show are around 200 species of fish, plus a living coral reef (the first in the world) that’s a must-see if you’re planning on doing any diving while in Bermuda, preparing you for the wonders of the deep that await.
Along with parrot fish, puffers and groupers, there are loggerhead turtles, sharks and green turtles. Seal-feeding time is especially popular, along with interactive tours.
The natural history museum is ideal for families, with hands-on discovery activities and animal storytelling for younger kids. The museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating overview of Bermuda’s plants and animals, with fossils, taxidermied creatures, shells and geological specimens to browse.
Audio guides provide information about the specimens displayed in each tank, which are kitted out to re-create Bermuda’s marine ecosystems.
On show are around 200 species of fish, plus a living coral reef (the first in the world) that’s a must-see if you’re planning on doing any diving while in Bermuda, preparing you for the wonders of the deep that await.
Along with parrot fish, puffers and groupers, there are loggerhead turtles, sharks and green turtles. Seal-feeding time is especially popular, along with interactive tours.
The natural history museum is ideal for families, with hands-on discovery activities and animal storytelling for younger kids. The museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating overview of Bermuda’s plants and animals, with fossils, taxidermied creatures, shells and geological specimens to browse.
Practical Info
The aquarium, museum and zoo are in the center of Bermuda on the southern edge of Harrington Sound, 20 minutes by bus from Hamilton.
Address: 40 North Shore Road, Flatts Village, Bermuda
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Bhaja Caves
The Bhaja Caves are located in a hill station in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. These Buddhist shrines were carved out of the mountain face here as far back as the 2nd century BC, providing a fascinating insight into Buddhist culture at that time.
The Bhaja Caves share architectural features with the Karla Caves situated nearby, but are usually less busy to stroll around and explore. The most impressive feature of the Bhaja Caves is its large chaitya (prayer hall), believed to be one of the earliest of its type and featuring a horseshoe-shaped entrance and depictions of Indian mythology.
Also of interest at the caves are the numerous stupas situated both inside and outside. These are the relics of resident monks who died at Bhaja and their names and respective titles are inscribed upon them.
Practical Info
The Bhaja Caves are located in Maharashtra, approximately a two-hour drive from Mumbai. While many choose to visit the Bhaja Caves as part of a day tour from Mumbai, thereby also taking in the other significant caves in the area, they can also be reached via public transport; frequent local buses run from nearby Lonavala to the Karla and Bhaja caves, with the first of the day leaving at 6am.
Address: Maharashtra, India
From $ 75
Berlin TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm)
Soaring 1,207 feet (368 meters) over Alexanderplatz, Berlin’s TV Tower (Berliner Fernsehturm) is Germany’s tallest structure. Built to mark the 20th anniversary of the German Democratic Republic in 1969, the tower was intended to be a symbol of East Germany’s achievements as a socialist society. Today it’s one of the capital’s most visited landmarks, affording 360-degree views over the entire city.
The Basics
Visitors can take in the views from the 666-foot-high (203-meter-high) observation deck, grab a drink at Berlin’s highest bar, or book a table at the revolving Sphere restaurant. A visit to the tower is included on many sightseeing tours and hop-on hop-off bus tours of Berlin. It’s also a popular photo stop on walking, biking, and Segway city tours, and can be seen on sightseeing cruises along the River Spree. Choose a skip-the-line ticket to avoid a long wait.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Discounted entry is available for Berlin Welcome Card holders.
- Ticket holders should arrive 15 minutes before the allotted time in order to pass through security.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on-site.
- Restaurant visitors should leave their coats at the free coat-check at the entrance.
- Large items, backpacks, and strollers are prohibited inside the tower.
- Due to safety concerns, wheelchair users and those with limited mobility are not permitted to enter the tower.
How to Get There
The Berlin TV Tower is located on Alexanderplatz in the Mitte neighborhood, about a 10-minute walk from nearby attractions such as Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island. The tower can also be reached by S-bahn (Alexanderplatz station), U-bahn (Klosterstraße station), and tram (Alexanderplatz). Paid car parking is located at Alexanderplatz and Otto-Braun Street.
When to Get There
The Berlin TV Tower is open daily, but with more than 1.2 million annual visitors, it can get crowded, especially during summer and holidays. Opt for an early morning visit for the best chance to beat the throngs. Alternatively, head up to the observation deck after dark for an unforgettable view of Berlin’s skyline. Other atmospheric times to visit include during the Berlin Festival of Lights in October and the Alexanderplatz Christmas Market.
The View from the Tower
The viewing platform of the Berlin TV Tower offers panoramic views over the city below. Display panels help you pinpoint such top attractions as the Reichstag (parliament) building, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Spree River. Farther afield you might spot the Olympic Stadium, Tempelhof airport, and the Tiergarten, or remains of the Berlin Wall and the many monuments of the UNESCO-listed Museum Island.
Address: Panoramastrasse 1a, Berlin 10178, Germany
Hours: Mar–Oct 9am–12am; Nov–Feb 10am–12am
Admission: Adults €15.50, Children €9.50
From $ 23
Berlin Zoo and Aquarium
Home to the most complete collection of animal species anywhere in the world, the Berlin Zoo and Aquarium celebrates the diversity of the animal kingdom. You’ll find everything from giant pandas to hippos, jellyfish, and gorillas here. Famous residents include Knut the polar bear and Bao Bao the giant panda.
The Basics
Opened in 1844 and located in the Tiergarten in the city center, Berlin Zoo is Germany’s oldest zoological garden and the most visited zoo in Europe. With daily feedings that visitors can watch and naturalistic enclosures, the zoo is designed to provide intimate encounters with animals. For an unforgettable experience, the zoo also offers “meet and greets” with the giraffes, elephants, hippos, tapirs, and meerkats in the company of experienced guides (adults only).
The accompanying aquarium was built in 1913 and is home to black-tip reef sharks, crocodiles penguins, “Nemos” (clownfish), and more. The aquarium also has several tuataras from New Zealand, a rare breed of lizard that has lived on Earth for 200 million years. The zoo is one of the stops on the Berlin hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the zoo and aquarium is via paid ticket—visitors can choose a combined pass or purchase separate tickets for each attraction.
- The zoo and aquarium are wheelchair- accessible, and wheelchairs are available on loan.
- Both the zoo and aquarium have restaurants and cafes.
- Make sure to see the Chinese-inspired entrance gate with twin elephants, a replica of the original gate that was destroyed during World War II.
How to Get There
The zoo is accessible by car, hop-on hop-off bus, public transport, or on foot from nearby areas. The closest metro stop is Zoologischer Garten (S-Bahn and U-Bahn). Paid parking is also available.
When to Get There
The zoo is open from 9am–6pm 365 days a year; last entry is one hour before closing. Seasonal opening times are as follows: January 1–February 25, 9am–4:30pm; March 26–September 23, 9am–6:30pm; and October 29–December 31, 9am–4:30pm.
Take a Stroll in Tiergarten
Like Central Park in New York, Berlin’s Tiergarten is the city’s green heart, where locals come to run, walk, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With plenty of open lawns shaded by trees, it’s a great spot for a lunchtime picnic or simply somewhere to sit down and rest tired feet in between sightseeing spots.
Address: Budapester Straße 32, Berlin 10787, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Berlin City Hall (Rotes Rathaus)
The Berlin City Hall (Rotes Rathaus), with its striking façade, is one of the German capital city’s most important landmarks. Named the “Red City Hall” because of the materials used in its construction, the brick building was completed in 1869. The neo-renaissance building was designed as a multi-winged complex, in round-arch style, featuring three inner courtyards and a 243-foot (74-meter) tower.
Since 1991, the Rotes Rathaus has served as seat of the Governing Mayor and the Senate of Berlin. There are several rooms well worth visiting inside the Rotes Rathaus. The Hall of Arms, with windows that represent all the emblems of Berlin, and the emblems of all the districts of the city, is used as a reception room for guests of state. The Grand Ballroom is used for larger events like receptions and ceremonies. One of the most beautiful rooms is the Pillar Hall, with its orange-colored, groin-vaulted ceiling and its many busts. Formerly home to the building’s library, the Pillar Hall now hosts exhibitions and events. The hallway on the third floor holds the portraits of every honorary citizen of Berlin, painted by Rolf Dübner.
Practical Info
Berlin’s City Hall (Rotes Rathaus) is located in the Mitte district, near Alexanderplatz. Although the Rotes Rathaus and its exhibitions are usually open to visitors from 9am-6pm. Monday to Friday, temporary closures may occur due to political events and safety reasons.
Address: Rathausstraße 15, Berlin 10178, Germany
From $ 23
Berlin Hauptbahnhof
Commissioned by Chancellor Angela Merkel and opened in 2006, Berlin’s central railway station was built atop the former East German station as a symbol of a reunited Germany. The five-story work of glass and steel serves up to 350,000 passengers per day and is one of the most well-connected train stations in the country.
The Basics
Spend any time at all in Berlin, and chances are you’ll find yourself at the travel hub of Berlin Hauptbahnhof. Due to the history of the old station, it features on many Cold War–themed city tours, and it’s a stop on nearly every Berlin hop-on hop-off tour, most of which also cruise by the Berlin Wall and Tränenpalast. You can also admire the architecture from the outside on a Berlin Segway tour along the riverfront or on a guided sightseeing cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hauptbahnhof is a must-see for first-time visitors and architecture buffs.
- Lockers are available in the train station parking lot, just outside the main building.
- Visitors get 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi service.
- Berlin Hauptbahnhof is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Berlin Hauptbahnhof is connected by high-speed rail to major cities throughout Europe and is a stop on S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines. The station is about a five-minute walk from Berlin’s famous Brandenburg Gate.
When to Get There
Berlin’s central station is open daily from early in the morning until late at night. To best appreciate the architecture of the structure (and for the best photos), plan to visit during the day when light is shining down through the arched glass roof.
Architectural Inspiration of Berlin Hauptbahnhof
German architectural firm Gerkan, Marg and Partners was tasked with designing Berlin Hauptbahnhof in 1993. The designers took inspiration from the existing lines of railway track, translating them onto the large glass roof.
Address: Europaplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
From $ 25