Home/

Things to Do in Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula

Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula

Hlavne Namestie

Hlavne Namestie is the main square in Bratislava, Slovakia. It is located in the center of the city in the Old Town. Throughout the year, vendors sell crafts and other souvenirs in the square, and during the Christmas season, this is the place to come for the city's Christmas markets. Other festivals, concerts, and outdoor events are also held in the main square. One of the most significant buildings on the square is the Old Town Hall. Though refurbished, it has been in use since 1434, and you can still see the preserved underpass that was built in 1442 to allow people to enter the building from the square.

Visitors can also see a line on the Town Hall building marking the water level of the Danube River during terrible flooding in February 1850. The Bratislava City Museum has an exhibition of the history of the city inside the Old Town Hall building. The main square charms visitors with its Renaissance-style fountain and many outdoor cafes.

Practical Info

Hlavne Namestie is located a little over a mile south of the main train station. The closest transport stop is Namestie SNP and can be reached using bus X13 from the main train station.

Hlavne Namestie, Bratislava 81101, Slovakia

From $ 14

Historic Centre of Lima

Stretching between the Plaza de Armas and Plaza San Martin, and bisected by the principal boulevard of Jirón de la Unión, the historic center of Lima is still the focal point of the modern-day city. Today, the UNESCO-listed area forms the basis of most tourist itineraries, with the majority of attractions within easy walking distance and a wealth of elegant buildings, churches and monumental statues dating back to the colonial era.

The Plaza de Armas makes a popular starting point for walking tours, home to a cluster of landmarks including the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Palace (City Hall) and the Palace of the Union, as well as a bronze fountain bearing the coats-of-arms of Lima. Famously the site of the foundation of the ‘City of the Kings’ in 1535, the Plaza de Armas became the city’s first public square and was later the site of the declaration of the Republic of Peru in 1821.

Next, visit the grand Cathedral of Lima, home to Pizarro's tomb and a Museum of Colonial Art; stroll around the lively Central Market and neighboring Barrio Chino (Chinatown); then discover the remains of the colonial city walls in the nearby Parque Universitario. Additional highlights of the historic center include the Hotel Bolivar, Lima’s oldest Hotel, the 17th century Monasterio de San Francisco, the ornate Archbishop's Palace and the well preserved Church and Convent of Santo Domingo.

Lima, Peru

From $ 29

Hodjapasha Cultural Center

It’s been said that music, rhythm, and dance are universal languages that can transcend borders, ethnicity, race, and time. This is certainly true at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center, where ancient Turkish and Anatolian traditions are rhythmically weaved right before your eyes in an historic and intimate theater. The cultural center building itself was once an enormous Turkish bath dating back to 1470, and the building continued to serve as a bath up until 1988.

Today, however, this modern and captivating performance studio regularly hosts a variety of dance shows that manifest a spiritual beauty. Of the center’s three different dance performances, the Mevlevi Sema Ceremony is the most traditional, and features Whirling Dervishes who hypnotically spin in a mystical ancient routine. Other performances—such as Rhythm of the Dance—are more modern, upbeat, and lively, and belly dancers and troupes of both male and female dancers perform tales of Anatolian folklore. Or, be captivated by the theatrical White Rose performance that tells the true love story of an Ottoman slave and a royal Dutch ambassador, which is then punctuated by a rousing harem dance just a few feet from your seat.

Practical Info

The Hodjapasha Cultural Center is located in Istanbul’s Sirkeci District about 10 minutes south of Taksim Square. Performances take place from March-December, with no performances on Monday or Friday. White Rose and Rhythm of the Dance occur on alternating nights with rotating schedules, whereas the dervishes perform each night at 7 pm. The Mevlevi Sema ceremony is approximately an hour, and no children under 7 are allowed, whereas other performances are 90 minutes and are open to the entire family.

Hoca Pasa Mh. Hocapasa Hamami Sokak 3, Istanbul, Turkey

Varies

From $ 22

Historic Quarter of the Seaport City of Valparaíso

UNESCO declared the historic part of Valparaíso a world heritage site in 2003, and when you get here, you won’t wonder why. It’s been called the Jewel of the Pacific, or Chile’s version of San Francisco, but there’s really no comparing it to anyplace you’ve ever been, and you’ll just have to come see it yourself.

The city is split into two main parts, the first of these being the “plan” or flat section, where you’ll find the port, the bus station, the market, and pleasant Muelle Barón (a pier) where you can sit and enjoy the view of the water. The second part, the more eye-catching bit, is the series of hills on which most of Porteños live. There are lively (and connected) Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, where there are cafés and restaurants and places to stay, and the Paseo Gervasoni where some of the best views are had. Of course, you could walk up the hills, or for about fifty cents (or less), take one of the acensores (as the funiculars are also called) that will take you up top. Getting down is easier, just walk toward the water.

Practical Info

Though you can take a driving tour of the city, it is best seen on foot, as many of the murals and brightly colored houses and staircases are best appreciated from street level. Wear sturdy shoes and treat yourself to a snack with a view when it’s time for a rest.

Valparaiso, Chile

From $ 18

Hohenschwangau Castle

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes and close by the Austrian border, the magnificent Hohenschwangau Castle (Schloss Hohenschwangau) is a dramatic gothic fortress dating back to the 19th century. The sister castle to the world-renowned Neuschwanstein Castle (the famous blueprint for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle), Hohenschwangau is a popular stop on the German Castle Trail and is often visited on day trips from Munich or nearby Füssen.

Hohenschwangau Castle was built in 1832 on the site of the 12th-century Schuangau fortress and is celebrated for its striking interior décor, including a series of paintings by Domenik Quaglio depicting key events in German history. Built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria, the palace is notable as the childhood home of his heir, the future King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Ludwig would later go on to build a series of fairytale castles, including Neuschwanstein, and while Hohenschwangau’s sprawling ruins don’t quite match their majesty, their influence is inherent.

The castle is now open to visitors and offers breathtaking views over the Alpsee and its surrounding mountain valleys, but to fully appreciate the setting, take a boat trip on the lake or hike one of the many trails that skirt the foothills of the castle.

Alpseestraße 12 Schwangau, Bavaria 87645, Germany

Open daily from 8am - 5:30pm during the summer and from 9am - 3:30pm during winter

€1.80 (USD$2.35) per individual; €0.90 (USD$1) for groups of 15 or more

From $ 57

Holland Casino

The city of Amsterdam is known for its many entertainment options, but many don’t realize that there is a casino with traditional gaming and gambling. The first was opened in Zandvoort, but the Amsterdam casino remains one of the country’s largest and most visited. Poker, Blackjack, and American and French roulette tables run throughout, as do more than 500 slot machines. Punto Banco, Caribbean Stud Poker, Sic Bo, Bingo, a money wheel, and mega jackpot are some of the other available games. There are also a variety of restaurants and nightclubs open to visitors on its three levels.

The casino is known for its upscale atmosphere and elegant interior, with chandeliers, comfortable seating, and beautiful design. A visit to the gaming tables is often combined with a dinner cruise on the canals.

Practical Info

There are fourteen Holland Casinos located throughout the country, and the Amsterdam casino (one of its largest) can be found in the Leidseplein district. Entry costs €5, and there’s a complimentary coat check at the entrance. Open daily from noon to 3am, the minimum age for entry is 18. There is a smart casual dress code.

Max Euweplein 62, 1017 MB, Amsterdam, Netherlands

12PM–3AM

€5

From $ 24

Hjálparfoss

Located in the Þjórsádalur Valley with a spectacular backdrop of volcanic Hekla in southern Iceland, Hjálparfoss is unique among Iceland’s scores of dramatic waterfalls as it has a double fall shooting over 10-m (31-ft) basalt cliffs into a bubbling plunge pool below. Divided by a rocky lava outcrop, the waters race from the confluence of the rivers Þjórsá and Fossá amid bizarre rock formations, all surrounded by relatively fertile grasslands where Icelandic ponies still roam in summer. The lava-strewn landscape is the result of long-term activity by Hekla, which the island’s most active volcano. A visit to Hjálparfoss is often combined with tours of the volcanic uplands of the Landmannalauger, where hot springs form natural thermal pools that are perfect for bathing – even in the middle of winter.

Practical Info

Hjálparfoss is a 90-minute drive east from Reykjavik down a gravel track off Road 32. It is easily accessed from the car park by a maintained, stepped pathway. Take insect repellent when visiting in summer. Plans to make the waterfall path wheelchair-accessible are underway.

Iceland

From $ 202

Historic Center of Vienna

The Historic Center of Vienna is the beating heart of Austria, and the home of top attractions such as Vienna’s city hall, Parliament, and the lively Museum Quarter. Also known as the First District or Inner City and preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is rich with baroque castles and gardens, as well as the 19th-century Ringstrasse, a beltway of grand buildings, monuments, and parks that encircles most of the inner city. There are enough landmark sites here to keep you snapping photos all day long.

The Basics

Visitors can shop along Karntnerstrasse or Kohlmarkt, sip coffee in one of Vienna’s famed coffeehouses, and peruse the area’s rich architecture and numerous museums. For a closer look into the storied history of attractions such as Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, explore the maze-like alleyways of Vienna’s First District on a small-group walking tour with an expert guide. Alternately, a 3.5-hour coach tour can give you an overview of city highlights, plus skip-the-line access to Schönbrunn Palace and discounted entry to Belvedere Palace, home of Gustav Klimt’s famous painting, The Kiss.

Things to Know Before You Go

The streets of Vienna’s First District are narrow and mostly one-way, making car travel difficult. Luckily, the city’s excellent public transport system can take you within a few minutes walk of most attractions.
Bring a pair of comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the area on foot.
Credit cards aren’t as common here as in Northern Europe, especially in restaurants, so you may want to carry cash.

How to Get There

Vienna International Airport is located just outside the city limits of Vienna, roughly 12 miles (20 kilometers) or 20 minutes by road from the Historic Center. If you’re arriving by train, the Vienna Central Train Station is just a 10-minute subway ride from the First District. A slew of international bus services arrive at the Vienna International Bus Terminal, also a 10-minute subway ride from the city center.

When to Get There

Summer is the most popular time to visit, so if you’re visiting between June and August, make sure to book accommodations ahead of time. Spring and fall bring mild weather and fewer crowds. Although winter can be cold, with temperatures around 32°F (0°C), Christmas markets abound in Vienna’s holiday season (think cheerful lights, seasonal treats, and handcrafted goods).

Architectural Marvels in Vienna

The Historic Center of Vienna is characterized by its intricate architecture, from medieval remnants like St. Stephen's Cathedral to the grand Imperial Palace, which represents the golden age of the Habsburg Empire. The 19th-century Ringstrasse is also lined with iconic buildings, including City Hall’s Gothic towers, the neoclassical columns of Vienna’s Parliament, and the Renaissance-inspired Vienna State Opera House (Wiener Staatsoper).

Vienna, Austria

From $ 12

Hipolit House

The Hipolit House is a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow, containing recreations of townhouse interiors from the 17th to early 19th century. The house represents a typical home in Krakow from this time period. The outside of the building has a grand facade with a central entrance hall. A narrow staircase takes visitors to the upper floors of the three story house. Visitors can still see carefully preserved stucco decoration by Baldassare Fontana from the late 17th century on the first floor.

The permanent exhibition, Bourgeois House, shows how the interiors of the homes changed over the centuries. Visitors can see from this exhibition how the former wealthy citizens of Krakow lived. Furniture, paintings, fabrics, decorations, antique clocks and watches, and a variety of other objects show how the inhabitants arranged their homes. Through these details, visitors can get a glimpse of what life was like for the upper class during the 17th to early 19th century.

Practical Info

The Hipolit House is located at Plac Mariacki 3 (St. Mary's Square 3). Opening hours are 10am to 5:30pm Wednesday to Sunday, April to October; 9am to 4pm Wednesday and Friday to Sunday, and 12pm to 7pm Thursday, November to March. Admission is 9 PLN.

Plac Mariacki 3, Krakow, Poland

Vary

9 PLN

From $ 29

Historic Centre of Arequipa

Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city, gets its nickname “La Ciudad Blana,” or “The White City,” from its central historic district built almost entirely from a porous, white volcanic stone known as sillar. The UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Arequipa, founded in 1540 by a group of Spanish conquistadores, is dotted with colonial churches, plazas and mansions that blend European and indigenous architectural styles.

At the heart of the district is Plaza de Armas, considered one of Peru’s most beautiful plazas and the site of the city’s most important buildings, including City Hall, the old Jesuit Iglesia de la Compañía and the neo-renaissance Cathedral. The Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a Dominican convent founded in 1579 and one of Arequipa’s most worthwhile sites, is also located in the historic centre.

Practical Info

The Historic Centre of Arequipa is compact and walkable, and it has enough attractions, shops and restaurants to easily fill up an entire day of sightseeing.

Arequipa, Peru

From $ 9

Historic Centre of Bruges

Bruges is one of the most picturesque cities in Belgium. It's one of Belgium's best preserved cities, and its medieval architecture escaped destruction from both World Wars. More than 1,000 years ago, Brugge was an important trade city due to its location near the coast. But in the 11th century, waterways that had direct access to the sea began to silt up. Although the walls of the city no longer stand, four old gates mark the boundaries of the old town and what is today the city center. Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a series of canals add to the charm of this small city.

Start your visit in the Grote Markt, Brugge's main square. Here you'll find the Belfry with its 272-foot tall tower, which you can climb for fantastic views of the city. Another great way to enjoy the city is from a boat tour of the canals. At the Basilica of the Holy Blood, you can see a vial of what is said to be the blood of Jesus. For museum lovers, Brugge has several museums, such as the Gruuthusemuseum, the Groeninge Museum, and the Brugge Museum, that have on display art and historical items from centuries ago through modern day works. Brugge is also well known for beer, chocolate and fries.

Practical Info

Brugge is located approximately one hour by train from Brussels. The closest airport is in Brussels, and you can connect to Brugge from the airport train station.

Brugge 8000, Belgium

From $ 45

Historic Centre of Naples

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by Naples, a vibrant city that often seems about to boil over into chaos. Look past the streets teeming with scooters, vendors, and Neapolitans, however, and you’ll spot signs of the 2,500 years of history that makes its UNESCO-listed historic center one of the most fascinating in Italy.

The Basics

Naples’ historic center, or centro storico, is made up of more than 10 distinct neighborhoods that cover the hillsides encircling the Bay of Naples down to the water’s edge. To walk through is to stroll back in time, from the stick-straight Roman roads of the Spaccanapoli and imposing 13th-century Castel Nuovo to the graceful 18th-century Teatro di San Carlo (the oldest opera house in Italy) and 19th-century Piazza Plebiscito. Underneath the city's streets are the remains of both Roman and Greek settlements, and the National Archaeological Museum is home to most of the artifacts removed from the nearby excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Savor the culture and history of the historic center on a guided walking or Segway tour that includes famous sights like Piazza del Gesù, the Duomo, the Church of Santa Chiara, and Via San Gregorio Armeno. One of Naples’ most characteristic features is its cuisine, and many tours combine sightseeing with tastings of pizza and other local street food. The ruins of Pompeii are just outside the city, so consider a tour that includes combines a visit to this famous archaeological park with the historic center.

Things to Know Before You Go

Walking tours of Naples’ historic center are mostly outdoors; wear sunscreen and a hat in summer.
You’ll be doing a considerable amount of walking in the largely pedestrian historic center, so choose comfortable footwear.
Churches require modest attire that covers knees and shoulders.
Some churches and monuments aren’t wheelchair accessible, and much of the historic center is paved with cobblestones that may be difficult to navigate on wheels.

How to Get There

The historic center of Naples is an easy walk from both the city’s port and main train station, and covers much of the downtown along the waterfront. Naples is a major transportation and cruise ship hub, with direct trains from major Italian cities as well as ferries from Salerno and Sorrento.

When to Get There

Much of southern Italy can be uncomfortably hot in summer, and Naples is no exception. Try to visit in spring or fall, or schedule your tour to begin in the early morning before the temperatures soar. Naples has a number of annual festivals, but perhaps the most famous is the Festa di San Gennaro (September 19), the feast day of the city’s patron saint that includes eight days of religious processions, markets, and other celebratory festivities.

The Archaeological Park at Pompeii

Pompeii, a thriving Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, is among the important archaeological sites in the world. Located just outside the modern city of Naples, this excavated city includes remains of houses, shops, restaurants, temples, and public buildings, many with original frescoes, mosaics, and other decorative features still somewhat intact.

Centro Storico, Naples, Italy

From $ 39

Hippodrome (At Meydani)

Built in the third century, the Hippodrome was the home of now-named Istanbul’s sporting entertainment during the Byzantine era, with a wide track for chariot racing. Today, the route of the old track is covered by Sultanahmet Square, a wide open space in the center of the old city, punctuated by ancient obelisks.

The Basics

The current Hippodrome traces the course of the ancient race track, though the actual remains are still underground. The square contains the Obelisk of Theodosius, a pink, Egyptian-made granite column that was brought to Istanbul in the fourth century and is one of the oldest monuments in the city. Also here are a spiralled obelisk that came from the temple of Apollo, the Walled Obelisk, and the German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm in the early 20th century.

Some small-group and private tours combine a visit to the Hippodrome with other sights in Sultanahmet, including the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Hippodrome is a must-visit for history buffs.
Wear comfortable shoes to stroll around the Hippodrome.
The Hippodrome is flat and handicap accessible.

How to Get There

The Hippodrome is in Istanbul’s bustling Sultanahmet neighborhood, between the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia and close to Topkapi Palace. It is minutes away from the Sultanahmet tram stop and is also easily accessible by taxi. Parking is limited in the area, so driving is not recommended.

When to Get There

The Sultanahmet area and the Hippodrome can get very busy, so it’s best to arrive early in the day or after the main sights have closed. Weekends and sunny days during the peak season are the busiest. The Hippodrome is now a public square, so it is open every day, all day.

Archaeology at the Hippodrome

Much of the historical Hippodrome is still underground. It’s possible to see part of the original level of the racecourse at the base of the ancient obelisks that dot the square. Some of the Hippodrome’s original statues and seats have been uncovered over the years, and are now housed in the Istanbul Archaeology Museums.

Turkey

From $ 14

Hofdi House

Located along Reykjavik’s scenic waterfront, the whitewashed building known as Hofdi House is best known as the place where US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev held the 1986 summit that led to the end of the Cold War. Images of the house were broadcast throughout the world, making it world famous.

The Basics

Beautiful Hofdi House was built in 1909 and originally housed the French consul; there are still signs of this on the building, including the initials R.F. for the Republic of France. In the 1940s and ’50s, it was home to the British Embassy. The house has also hosted several celebrities and heads of state, including Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and Marlene Dietrich. Hofdi is now owned by the City of Reykjavík and is currently used for official receptions and meetings. Although the house is unfortunately not open to the public, visitors are welcome to explore the house from the outside.

Many city sightseeing tours of Reykjavik include a stop at Hofdi house, offering the opportunity to see the exterior and read the various plaques that tell of its role in international politics.

Things to Know Before You Go

Hofdi House is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
There is no charge to look around the exterior.
The sculpture in front depicts pillars from the chieftain's seat of the first Norwegian settler in Reykjavik.
The grounds are also home to a 4-ton slab of the Berlin Wall, a gift from the New West Berlin Art Gallery to commemorate the 25th anniversary of German reunification.

How to Get There

Hofdi House is located on the waterfront, on Saebraut Road. It’s about 25 minutes’ walk east of downtown Reykjavik and can be reached using bus routes 4, 12, or 16. It is also a stop on the hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour bus.

When to Get There

There are no restrictions on when you can visit the Hofdi House grounds. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds of tourists, aim to visit in the evening. The glow of dusk lighting up the water in front makes for an attractive sight.

Haunted House

Some people believe that Hofdi House is occupied by the “White Lady,” thought to be the ghost of a young woman who drowned. A British Ambassador who once occupied the house was so unnerved by the ghost’s presence that he persuaded the British Foreign Office to sell the house back to the Icelandic government.

Fjörutún, Reykjavik, Reykjavik, Iceland 105, Iceland

From $ 38

HMS Caroline

Explore an iconic naval vessel and gain insight into maritime history onboard the HMS Caroline in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. The only survivor of the Battle of Jutland, the decommissioned barge has a restored bridge, captain’s quarters, engine rooms, and decks. Here, visitors can learn more about life at sea and Northern Ireland’s vital role in World War I and II.

The Basics

Avoid disappointment by pre-booking admission tickets to ensure full interaction with the exhibit; or, if you’d rather absorb views of the striking ship from the water, opt for a sightseeing cruise that sails past the vessel. Maritime enthusiasts can make the most of their time with a walking tour of the entire Titanic Quarter, while travelers looking to explore the wider county landmarks can combine a visit to the HMS Caroline with a tour to top rural attractions, such as the Giant’s Causeway.

Things to Know Before You Go

The HMS Caroline is suitable and informative for the whole family.
The decommissioned warship has been made as accessible as possible for wheelchair users. Areas that are inaccessible can be explored via virtual access.
High heels with a diameter of less than 2.5cm cannot be worn on the ship.

How to Get There

Located in the Alexandra Dock, the HMS Caroline is a short walk from the Titanic Quarter Station and is served directly by the 26, 26B, and 26C buses. There is free parking beside the ship.

When to Get There

The attraction is open daily, though weekends and school holidays tend to be more crowded.

Second Longest Serving Ship

At the time of her decommissioning in 2011, the HMS Caroline was the second-longest serving Royal Navy ship. Just ahead of her was the HMS Victory, the famous flagship of Lord Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The HMS Victory can still be visited today at her retirement home in Portsmouth.

Alexandra Dock, Queens Rd, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Varies

From $ 12

Hollywood Road

The second-oldest road in Hong Kong, Hollywood Road runs for 0.62 miles (1 kilometer) from Sheung Wan in the west, past trendy SoHo, and through to Central in the east. It’s home to a plethora of antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques, as well as a lively and growing assortment of hip restaurants, bars, clubs, and boutique hotels.

The Basics

Most Hollywood Road antique shops are located on its western end, centered around Ladder Street and Upper Lascar Row (Cat Street Market). Farther east are more boutique shops and art galleries—Hollywood Road today is one of the top places to view and buy contemporary Chinese art. Cafés, restaurants, bars, and clubs cluster closer to the road’s Central end.

Visit Hollywood Road on your own or join a half-day guided walking tour. Choose a tour focused on shopping for personalized recommendations, or join a small-group tour and take in both historical and modern attractions around Central and Sheung Wan. Opt for a full-day tour to include top Hong Kong attractions such as Victoria Peak.

Things to Know Before You Go

Hollywood Road is a must-visit for antiques aficionados and those who love to shop.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk.
Allot several hours if you plan to walk the length of Hollywood Road and shop and/or dine.
It may be difficult getting taxis during rush hours and when it rains.

How to Get There

Hollywood Road, which is a one-way street running west to east, is easily accessible. Take the MTR to either Sheung Wan or Central and walk south until you hit Hollywood Road. Note that there may be steep hills involved, though visitors can avoid having to walk uphill by taking the Central–Mid-Level Escalator—a sight in itself. Taxis are another good way to avoid the hills.

When to Get There

Hollywood Road can be visited at any time. Those interested in shopping should note that most Hong Kong shops open later in the morning but stay open later in the evening, and many shops are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Shop later in the day and stay to enjoy the lively nightlife scene here, with many late-night restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Top Attractions on Hollywood Road

On the Sheung Wan end of Hollywood Road, Man Mo Temple is dedicated to the gods of literature (Man) and war (Mo). Built in 1847, the temple has a lavish interior and huge spiral coils of incense overhead. In the Central District, the Central–Mid-Levels Escalator is the world’s longest covered escalator, stretching over 2,600 feet (800 meters) and rising over 442 feet (135 meters) in elevation. The escalator only runs one way at a time: It runs downhill from 6am to 10am and uphill from 10am to midnight.

Hollywood Road, Hong Kong, China

From $ 57

Historical Museum of Krakow

With 14 outposts scattered across the city, Krakow’s Historical Museum (Muzeum Historyczne Miasta Krakowa) is headquartered at Krzysztofory Palace in the Old Town’s central square of Rynek Główny. This glorious 17th-century Baroque townhouse and its ornate stucco decor has been refurbished, and now houses a permanent exhibition on the urban development of the city. Look out for the portraits of civic leaders and a famous collection of traditional Krakovian Christmas cribs (called szopki in Polish). Another recent addition is the museum store full of beautiful coffee-table books and textiles.

Branches of the museum include the interactive displays of the Rynek Underground (Podziemia Rynku), also in the Rynek Główny; the Oskar Schindler Factory; the Barbican; the Old Synagogue in Ulica Szeroka and the Communist-built suburban town of Nowa Huta. There are several themed cycling trails— bikes can be borrowed from the museums—and walking routes uniting the venues across the city; the most popular of these is the Memory Trail, which incorporates the Schindler Factory, Eagle Pharmacy and the former Gestapo headquarters in Pomorska Street. Together these three permanent exhibitions unfold the story of Krakow during World War II and the subsequent Soviet Occupation.

Explore the museum on a two-hour guided tour of Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum or visit multiple branches at your leisure with a two-day hop on, hop off bus tour including museum admission.

Practical Info

The Historical Museum of Krakow includes 14 outposts around the city. Its main location is in Krzysztofory Palace in Old Town's central square, Rynek Główny. Since Old Town is pedestrianized, the museum is best accessed on foot.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 5:30pm. Admission is 12 PLN for adults; 8 PLN for students and seniors; and 24 PLN for families. Admission and opening hours to other museum branches vary according to venue.

Entry to all is free with the Krakow Museums and Transport Official Pass.

Krzysztofory Palace: Rynek Główny 35, Krakow, Poland

Tue–Sun: 10am–5.30pm

Varies

From $ 12

HMS Belfast

The World War II warship HMS Belfast, moored on the south bank of the Thames, is an iconic symbol of British history. Discover interactive displays and preserved spaces across the vessel’s nine decks and learn about life on the naval ship, as well as its role in D-Day, the Arctic Convoys, and the Battle of North Cape.

The Basics

The ship has become a fixture of the Thames landscape, with river cruises offering premier views of the vessel. For a closer look, skip the lines with a prebooked ticket, leaving plenty of time to explore the ship’s quarters, including the engine rooms, sick bays, and flag deck. Some city passes offer access to HMS Belfast along with other top city attractions, while flexible hop-on hop-off tours allow time to explore at your own pace.

Things to Know Before You Go

HMS Belfast is a must-see for visitors interested in Britain’s naval history and has plenty to entertain families.
Some tours include entrance fees as part of the package; otherwise, there is a charge to enter.
Deck areas are accessible for wheelchairs, with lift access from the gangway. Below deck is inaccessible due to the preserved nature of the ship.
Free handheld audio guides are available for all visitors.

How to Get There

The ship is moored on the south bank of the Thames, just a few minutes’ walk from London Bridge station. It is also easily accessed by river boat, with London Bridge City Pier next door.

When to Get There

HMS Belfast is open daily throughout the year, except Christmas. The ship is popular with school trips, but you can miss the crowds with a morning or later afternoon visit. Admire panoramic views of the city from the flag deck, with winter offering a particularly festive vista.

Imperial War Museum

HMS Belfast is operated by Imperial War Museum, a museum group with five branches, two in London. The IWM London, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from HMS Belfast, houses a Holocaust Exhibition as well as a number of war artifacts from across the century, while the underground Churchill War Rooms on King Charles Street provide insight into wartime London.

The Queens Walk, Tooley Street, London SE1 2JH, England

Varies

From $ 16

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

Open to the public since 1974, this distinctive round building on the National Mall is dedicated to contemporary and modern art in the United States. From the outside, the museum appears to be a solid, windowless concrete cylinder perched on four squat blocks; the interior, though, features a hollow cylinder lined with windows which look onto a central courtyard and allow in natural light.

Designed by an art collector for an art collector, the Hirshhorn was originally conceived by architect Gordon Bunshaft to house a bequest of 6,000 artworks by financier Joseph Hirshhorn. Hirshhorn’s art collection is composed of work by the greatest living artists of his 20th century life: Picasso, Matisse, Willem de Kooning, Louise Nevelson, Jackson Pollock and many more. The museum is surrounded by a four-acre, two-level sculpture garden highlighting works by Henry Moore, Alexander Calder, and more recently, Jeff Koons.

The museum today features rotating exhibits by the world’s most accomplished and controversial artists, like Chinese dissident Ai Wei Wei. One of the most popular outdoor attractions here is a Wishing Tree by Yoko Ono, a live tree to which you’re invited to pin a piece of paper with your fondest wish.

Practical Information

From 12-4 p.m., docents are available at the museum’s information desk to give impromptu 30-minute tours. Street parking is available on the streets surrounding the museum, or it’s a two-block walk to the Metrorail’s L’Enfant Plaza station, serving the Orange , Green and Yellow Lines.

700 Independence Ave SW, Washinton DC 20560, USA

Museum open 10:00 am - 5:30 pm Open Daily except Dec 25th.

From $ 64

Historic Centre of Macau

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005, the Historic Centre of Macau comprises a zone of culturally significant buildings scattered in the southwestern corner of the Macau peninsula. Easily enjoyed as a half-day or full-day walking tour, the Historic Centre of Macau primarily focuses on the fusion of Portuguese colonialism with traditional Chinese cultural heritage. As an important Far East trading port, Macau has one of the longest-standing histories of European influence found anywhere on the Asian continent. For over 400 years two distinctly different cultures coexisted on a tiny strip of land. During this time both the Chinese as well as Portuguese residents crafted temples, forts, public squares and traditional works of architecture that create what is now the best example of European influence found anywhere on the Asian continent.

Popular stops in the Historic Centre include the 15th century A-Ma Temple, where devotees of this Goddess of seafaring come to burn incense and pray for safe passage. You may also want to climb atop the old walls of Monte Fort where cannons which once defended against invading Dutch sailors now point towards glitzy casinos. Down on the street level the classic, pastel façades of Portuguese buildings give areas such as Senado Square and the Church of St. Dominic a fairytale appearance. Other stops like the Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral show that history isn’t always kind, in that even the grandest of buildings are still susceptible to fire and disaster.

The Macau Historic Centre is easily Macau’s most popular visitor destination (that isn’t a gaming venue), and a stroll through the area is literally a walk through history that is unlike any other in the world.

Macau, China

From $ 72