Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Blenheim Palace
Built in the early 18th century, this stately home is one of Britain’s grandest historical estates. It was gifted by Queen Anne to the Duke of Marlborough, General John Churchill, for his role in defeating the French at the 1704 Battle of Blenheim, and Britain’s beloved wartime leader Sir Winston Churchill was born here in 1874.
The Basics
Visitors can choose between two tickets: One provides access to the park and gardens only, while the other grants access to the park, gardens, and palace. The latter includes guided tours of the Palace State Rooms and access to the Untold Story interactive exhibit, which traces the palace’s long history. The Churchill Exhibition explores the life story of the former English prime minister through photographs, letters, and artifacts and is also included with palace admission.
Audio guides are available for a small extra fee, as are special seasonal tours. Visitors can explore the palace independently or go as part of day tours from London, Oxford, or Bournemouth. Day tours typically combine a visit to Blenheim Palace with trips to nearby Cotswolds villages, such as Bampton, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Blenheim Palace is a must for British history buffs, outdoor lovers, and architecture enthusiasts.
- Four cafés and restaurants can be found on the estate.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at the palace.
- The state rooms are accessible to wheelchair users via a staff-operated elevator, though the Untold Story exhibition, as well as some of the special tours, are not.
How to Get There
Blenheim Palace is situated in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, about a 20-minute drive from Oxford city. To get here, ride the S3 bus from Oxford, or the Oxford Bus Company’s 500 service from Oxford Parkway.
When to Get There
Blenheim Palace is open all year, and tours take place every day except Sunday, when visitors can explore independently and guides are stationed in most rooms to answer questions. Summer weekends are busiest, so come midweek or outside of peak summer season (June, July, and August) to avoid the crowds.
Exploring the Gardens and Grounds
While the palace itself is the main attraction, there is just as much to see in the surrounding gardens and park, portions of which were designed by the famous landscaper Lancelot “Capability” Brown. Ride a minitrain to the Pleasure Gardens, where you’ll find a butterfly house, an adventure playground, and the Marlborough Maze, comprised of thousands of yew hedges. Walking trails around the park lead to other sights, such as the Temple of Diana, where Winston Churchill proposed to his wife, and the Grand Cascade waterfall.
Address: Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PP, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 62
Bodrum Marina
Often nicknamed the St Tropez of Turkey, Bodrum has earned itself a stellar reputation among cruise travelers. The lively Bodrum Marina, a well-equipped and modern harbor with space for up to 500 boats, is at the heart of its sailing community. Even if you won’t be docking your private yacht in the marina, a stroll along the scenic waterfront provides an atmospheric introduction to the city with its line of designer shopping outlets, luxury hotels, top-class seafood restaurants and stylish selection of bars and cafes.
As well as being a place that offers yachts for hire and day cruises around the Bodrum Peninsula, the colorful marina also hosts a number of international boat races and festivals throughout the year, including the prestigious Bodrum Cup yacht regatta each October.
Practical Info
The Bodrum Marina is located at the city’s waterfront, just west of the Castle of St Peter.
Address: Bodrum, Turkey
From $ 26
Bloemenmarkt
Taking place daily in the canals of Amsterdam, the Bloemenmarkt is the only floating flower market in the world. Dating back to 1862, traders once would sail directly in to sell their flowers. Today it consists of more than fifteen local florists as well as other small vendors. The boats lining the waterways have the scenic canal houses as a backdrop. Stretching over a block long, the floating barges carrying colorful flowers is a unique sight to behold.
Aside from its multi-colored visuals, the market is also incredibly fragrant. Vendors tend to sell flower bulbs for cultivation, though there are also freshly cut flowers and bouquets. The country’s famous tulips and geraniums are the most common flowers, but indoor plants and greenery are also for sale. Bulbs are a popular gift that can be taken home, and many other traditional Dutch souvenirs are also on display.
The market is mostly visited by locals, but is also a stop on many city tours of Amsterdam both on foot and via the canals.
Practical Info
The Bloemenmarkt can be found on the Singel Canal, between the Koningsplein and the Muntplein. The nearest tram stop is Koningsplein. Seasonally there is also a Christmas market (with trees for sale) in the area.
Address: Singel, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hours: Mon-Sat 9AM–5:30PM, Sun 11AM-5:30PM
From $ 18
Boboli Gardens
Pass through the arched entrance of Florence’s stately Pitti Palace and into the serenity of the sweeping Boboli Gardens, once the private playground of this Renaissance capital’s ruling Medici family. Dating from the 16th century, the Giardino di Boboli is among the earliest examples of formal Italian gardens, commissioned for the wife of Cosimo I de Medici in 1540. The gardens were expanded in the 16th and 17th centuries, and now cover 11 acres (4.4 hectares) of hillside and include a collection of outdoor sculptures dating from ancient Rome through the 17th century, making it a veritable open-air museum.
The Basics
The Boboli Gardens are among Italy’s most famous gardens, and a popular attraction in central Florence as they offer a respite from the crowded city streets. Visitors can stroll along tree-lined paths on a private tour—or, for those traveling with kids, a family-friendly garden tour—to admire the expanses of manicured lawns, Renaissance fountains, classical grottos, nymphaea, temples, and an amphitheater with an Egyptian obelisk at its center. Tickets to the Boboli Gardens include entrance to the Porcelain Museum, inside the garden’s 18th-century Palazzina del Cavaliere, and the neighboring Bardini Gardens. Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the Boboli Gardens is perfect for kids who need to let off a bit of steam, but stay on the walking paths as some sections of lawn are off limits.
- The gardens can be toured only on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- You may bring food and drink into the gardens for an impromptu picnic on one of the many outdoor benches.
- There are four entrances to the Gardens: Pitti Palace, Annalena (Via Romana 37/A), Porta Romana, and Forte Belvedere.
How to Get There
The Boboli Gardens are located between Palazzo Pitti and Porta Romana in Florence’s central Oltrarno neighborhood. The main entrance on Piazza de’ Pitti can be reached in 30 minutes on foot or 15 minutes by bus from the Santa Maria Novella train station. Florence is a popular destination for shore excursions from the port city of Livorno.
When to Get There
The gardens are best visited from spring through fall, when the weather is mild, and early in the morning or late in the afternoon during the hottest months of the year.
Important Works in the Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens hold an important collection of Renaissance statues and fountains. Notable works include “Bathing Venus” and “Fountain of the Ocean” sculpted by Giambologna, a copy of “The Prisoners” by Michelangelo, and a number of pieces by Buontalenti.
Address: Piazza Pitti, 1, Florence, Tuscany 50125, Italy
Hours: Open daily from 8:15am to 4:30pm (Nov-Feb), to 5:30pm (March), to 6:30pm (April-May, Sept-Oct) and to 7:30pm (June-August)
Admission: Full Price: 7 euros; Reduced: 3.50 euros
From $ 22
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) is one of the most famous attractions on the beautiful island of Capri, located in Italy’s Bay of Naples. This unique sea cave gets its name from the bright blue light filtering through the water by way of an opening below sea level. To enter the cave, visitors board a small rowboat and duck as they enter through a low opening. Once inside the cave, you’ll marvel at the glowing turquoise light.
The Basics
A visit to the Blue Grotto is a must for visitors on a day trip or shore excursion from the Amalfi Coast, Naples, or Sorrento. You can reach the cave by water or land, but to enter the cave, you must board an official rowboat. Due to the high number of visitors, wait times can stretch for hours, though passengers of private boat tours are often given precedence. Book your boat transfer to and from the Blue Grotto in advance to avoid long lines, or reserve a private tour with a boat ride around Capri and the Faraglioni rock formations.
Things to Know Before You Go
- At the cave entrance, you must purchase a ticket from the floating ticket office and board a rowboat to enter. This is included in most boat tours.
- Due to the low cave entrance, the Blue Grotto is only open when weather conditions permit.
- You’ll have to wait to enter the cave aboard small, open-air rowboats, so bring a hat and sunblock.
- The journey to the Blue Grotto is not recommended for those who suffer from seasickness.
- Once inside the cave, many rowboat skippers will treat you to a serenade for a small tip.
How to Get to the Blue Grotto
You can reach the Blue Grotto by sea from the Marina Grande port or by land from the town of Anacapri.
When to Get There
The cave is most crowded in summer and during the midday hours, so plan to visit first thing in the morning to avoid a long wait to enter. Note that the Blue Grotto is open only when sea conditions permit, so when the waters are rough or there are high winds, the cave may close with no advance warning.
Capri by Land
The Blue Grotto can only be visited by sea, but the island of Capri has a number of attractions on land, as well. Take an island tour of Villa San Michele, with its sweeping views over the Mediterranean, the lush Gardens of Augustus, and the 14th-century Charterhouse of San Giacomo.
Address: Anacapri, Capri, Italy
From $ 25
Bodleian Library
The main research library of the University of Oxford and one of the oldest of its kind in Europe, the Bodleian Library is also one of the UK’s five "copyright libraries," famously housing a copy of every book printed in Great Britain—a collection that spans more than 11 million works. Founded by Sir Thomas Bodley in 1602, the Bodleian Library, or "the Bod" as it’s known to students, is actually a complex of libraries and reading rooms located in the heart of Oxford, including the domed Radcliffe Camera, the vaulted Divinity Room, the Duke Humphrey's Library and the Old and New Bodleian Libraries.
With its towering shelves of prized books and manuscripts, exploring the Bodleian libraries is a rare treat for book lovers, with everything from early manuscripts, biblical texts and ancient maps to rare literary editions, Oriental manuscripts and a large collection of original J.R.R Tolkien works. But don’t expect to get your hands on one of the books—much of the historic library is off-bounds for non-scholars, except by guided tour, and no one is allowed to remove the books from the library—even King Charles I was famously refused permission to borrow a book in 1645.
Practical Info
The Bodleian Library is located in central Oxford between the Radcliffe Camera and the Sheldonian Theatre. It is open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.; and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (note that some buildings may be closed on Sundays). The Bodleian’s historic quadrangles, exhibition room and shop are all free to visit, while the adjoining Divinity School charges a £1 admission. Access to the library’s reading rooms is by guided tour only.
Address: Broad St., Oxford OX1 3BG, England
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Saturday 9am-4:30pm
Sunday 11am-5pm
From $ 16
Bodrum Peninsula
With its crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful corals and sweeping coastal cliffs giving way to sandy beaches and secluded coves, the Bodrum Peninsula is one of Turkey’s most scenic destinations, stretching for 174 km along the northwestern Aegean coast. Bodrum, built on the site of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, is the main gateway to the region and the most developed of its towns. Legions of tourists are steadily drawn to Bodrum’s lively waterfront and numerous archaeological gems, including the ruins of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
Touring the peninsula makes a popular day or multi-day trip from Bodrum. Heading west along the coast, the bustle of city life soon gives way to sleepy fishing villages, hilltops capped with whitewashed windmills and ancient olive groves. There’s plenty to see and do around the peninsula - explore the underwater ruins of ancient Myndos in Gümüslük; take a boat cruise around the islands; try your hand at windsurfing in Akyarlar or Bitez; or escape the crowds for the pristine beaches of Yalikavak, Torba and Türkbükü on the peninsula’s north coast.
Practical Info
The Bodrum Peninsula lies on the southwestern coast of Turkey on the Aegean Sea. The peninsula’s principal airport is the Milas-Bodrum Airport, 30 minutes from central Bodrum, but visitors can also arrive by bus (about four hours from Izmir), ferry or cruise ship.
Address: Turkey
From $ 26
Blasket Islands
Dingle Peninsula lie a group of abandoned sandstone islands rise out of the Atlantic Ocean. The Blasket Islands (Na Blascaodaí in Irish) have all been occupied at one point or another, but it was the tiny community on the largest island, The Great Blasket, that gained fame for its tradition of folklore and storytelling.
At its peak, the island boasted 175 residents; by the time the Irish government decided the islands were too dangerous for habitation and ordered a mandatory evacuation, there were only 22 people remaining.
Visitors to The Great Blasket find the ruined remains left behind by the island’s former inhabitants. An 8-mile (13-kilometer) walking path takes visitors past some of the island’s most spectacular scenery — sea cliffs and white sand beaches — with the opportunity to spot shorebirds and a colony of seals who now call the islands home.
Practical Info
Boats to the Blasket Islands run between March and September and are weather dependent, so call ahead.
Address: Blasket Islands, Ring of Kerry, Ireland
From $ 45
Bodrum Amphitheater
One of the most important and best-preserved remains of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, the Bodrum Amphitheater boasts a dramatic location, carved into the hillside above the city of Bodrum. Originally constructed in the fourth century B.C. during the reign of King Mausolus, the grand, open-air venue wasn’t fully completed until the Roman era, with structural changes that were made for hundreds of years up until the second century A.D.
The 13,000-seat amphitheater is one of the oldest in Anatolia, and thanks to careful restoration, it remains in use, hosting concerts and theatrical performances during the summer months. The atmospheric venue is famed for its remarkable acoustics and magnificent panoramic views of the modern-day city of Bodrum, neighboring Gumbet and the surrounding Bodrum peninsula.
Practical Info
The Bodrum Amphitheater lies on Kibris Sehitler Cad, on the road to Gumbet. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. It’s possible to reach the amphitheater on foot (a 40-minute uphill walk from Bodrum Harbor) or by dolmuslar (mini-buses) heading to Gumbet, Akilye or Turgutreis.
Address: Turkey
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 8am-7pm
From $ 374
Bode Museum
As one of five museums on Museum Island, the Bode Museum, formerly the Kaiser- Friedrich Museum, houses three separate collections of sculptures and treasures: the Museum of Byzantine Art (art from the West-Roman and Byzantine Empires from the 3rd to the 15th century), the sculpture collection (sculptures from the Early Middle Ages to the late 18th century), and the Numismatic Collection (coin cabinet). The cabinet is complemented by a gallery specifically for children. The museum, which opened in 1904 was renovated in 2006.
The Bode Museum’s architecture is impressive. In order to achieve the appearance of a building rising from water the architect arranged the three-winged building around several interior courtyards so that the exterior facades immediately bordered the banks of the river Spree. A dominating dome and two opulent staircases give the building the appearance of being stately. Seen from the water, the museum gives the impression of a gigantic ship above the waterline.
In the summer, the shore on the other side is a popular place for people to meet each other and hang out.
The Bode Museum’s architecture is impressive. In order to achieve the appearance of a building rising from water the architect arranged the three-winged building around several interior courtyards so that the exterior facades immediately bordered the banks of the river Spree. A dominating dome and two opulent staircases give the building the appearance of being stately. Seen from the water, the museum gives the impression of a gigantic ship above the waterline.
In the summer, the shore on the other side is a popular place for people to meet each other and hang out.
Address: Am Kupfergraben 1, Berlin 10117, Germany
Hours: Open Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun 10am - 6pm; Thu 10am - 8pm. Closed Mondays.
Admission: Adult: 10 EUR, Discounted: 5 EUR
From $ 23
BMW Museum
Housed in a futuristic mirrored building, the BMW Museum is located at company headquarters near Munich’s Olympic Park. Inside you can find motorcycles and cars ranging from vintage Rolls-Royces to classic MINIs, with a series of interactive exhibits detailing 90 years of automobile design.
The Basics
Highlights of the museum’s extensive car collection include a 1928 Dixi car, the BMW 328 that won the historic Italian Mille Miglia race in 1940, and a rare 1974 BMW 3.0 CSL "Batmobile." Museum tours offer insight into the company’s evolution and product history, while guided factory tours go behind the scenes at the BMW Group Plant for a peek into the manufacturing rooms. Additionally, some hop-on hop-off tours of Munich stop at the BMW Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The BMW Museum is a must-see for history buffs and car enthusiasts.
- BMW World (BMW Welt) and all its facilities, including the museum and manufacturing plant, are fully wheelchair accessible.
- BMW World has five restaurants (Restaurant M1, Biker's Lodge, Copper’s, EssZimmer, and Restaurant Bavarie), which serve snacks, coffee, and meals.
How to Get There
Located in Munich, Germany, the BMW Museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Take the U3 subway line to either Olympiazentrum or Petuelring, Tram 27 to Petuelring, or Bus 173, 177, or 178 to Petuelring. There is a parking garage on-site.
When to Get There
The BMW museum is open year-round with the exception of Mondays. Weekdays tend to be quieter with easier bookings for popular behind-the-scenes tours. Arrive at opening time or in the afternoon to avoid the most crowded times of the day.
BMW New-Car Pickup
A special time to visit BMW World is during the pickup of a new car. Visitors who have purchased a new BMW receive personalized service and a one-on-one introduction to their new vehicle. Some pickup packages include premium tours of the plant, BMW World, and the BMW Museum.
Address: Am Olympiapark 2, Munich 80809, Germany
From $ 20
Bockenheimer Warte
In what is possibly one of the world’s most interesting subway entrances, a streetcar appears to burst through the sidewalk from underground at the Bockenheimer Warte. Bockenheimer Warte is a part of the neighborhood of Bockenheim, which is a residential area that is worth visiting to get an impression of where locals go for grocery shopping, haircuts, and the like. Bockenheimer Warte is a five-minute walk from the Palmengarten, one of Frankfurt’s two large botanical gardens, and the Senckenberg Museum (Germany’s second-largest natural history museum) is quite close as well.
The lively Leipziger Straße, full of shops and places to eat, also begins at the Bockenheimer Warte. This creative metro entrance is one of the best photo opportunities in Frankfurt and is certainly worth stopping by if you have a few minutes to spare, especially if you are already in the area to visit the natural history museum or the botanical garden.
Practical Info
Bockenheimer Warte is served by the U4,U6, and U7 metro lines and is a 15-minute walk from downtown Frankfurt. The area has plenty of great shopping and cafes, and is close to the university, the natural history museum, and the botanical garden.
Address: Bockenheimer Landstrasse, Bockenheim, Frankfurt 60325, Germany
From $ 88
Blue Cave (Plava Spilja)
Located on Montenegro’s Lustica Peninsula, the Blue Cave is one of the country’s most popular attractions. Also known as the Blue Grotto, it derives its name from the iridescent blue water that is reflected throughout the cave. The largest of several caves on the peninsula, the Blue Cave features clear, warm water about five meters deep that is great for swimming or snorkeling. Indeed, many say you need to see the water underneath the surface to truly appreciate it. With a ceiling about nine meters high, the cave is a popular stop for tour boats, most of which will give you about 10-15 minutes to take a quick swim.
Practical Info
The Blue Cave is only accessible by boat or kayak. Visitors can take an organized tour that might also include stops at Fort Mamula, Montenegro’s version of Alcatraz, and one of several beaches. Tours leave regularly from the Herceg Novi marina between April and November. Alternatively, you might charter a private boat or join a kayaking tour to the cave. The boat ride from Herceg Novi to the cave takes about 45 minutes.
Address: Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Admission: Free (price of boat tour varies)
From $ 45
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)
A distinct Istanbul landmark, the world-famous Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii in Turkish) opened in 1616 and is renowned for its slender minarets and collection of domes. The Sultan Ahmet I conceived the structure as a project to rival the nearby Byzantine Hagia Sofia—formerly a church and now a museum—which stands opposite the mosque in the city's busiest square. The Blue Mosque was constructed over the site of an ancient hippodrome and Byzantine palace, and although much of the original complex was torn down in the 19th century, what remains today is one of the most beautiful mosques in Turkey.
Guarded by its six minarets, topped by its cascading domes and built around an enormous internal courtyard, the mosque's vast and curvaceous, vaulted interior is ablaze with 20,000 delicate blue Iznik tiles—after which it gets its moniker of the Blue Mosque—featuring flowers, garlands and intricate patterns. All are beautifully floodlit by sunlight that streams in through 260 stained-glass windows.
The Blue Mosque can be visited on a small-group or private tour of the Sultanahmet neighborhood and is often paired with tours of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sofia and the Hippodrome. Full-day options may cover the rest of Istanbul and also include a Bosphorous cruise, lunch or visits to sites such as the Grand Bazaar and the Yerebatan Sarayi (Basilica Cistern).
Practical Info
Located at Meydani 21 in Istanbul's Sultanahmet, the Blue Mosque is open daily from 9am–6pm but closes for 90 minutes around each of five daily prayer times. Non-Muslims can visit outside prayer times and must use the northern entrance in the Hippodrome façade of the mosque to visit. Admission is free but donations are appreciated. All visitors must remove shoes, cover legs and shoulders, while women must wear shawls around their heads (available outside the mosque). The tram can be taken to Sultanahmet, and the mosque can be accessed via the northern entrance.
Address: Meydani 21, Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Marmara 34122, Turkey
Hours: Daily 9am–6pm but closes 5 times per day
Admission: Free
From $ 14
Blue Grotto
The most famous of Malta’s cave complexes, the Blue Grotto is a series of nine caves whose rocky sides glow green, purple, and orange according to their mineral content. Surrounding the caves are some of the clearest, brightest cobalt-blue waters imaginable. The natural wonder got its name from British soldiers stationed in Malta in the 1950s who thought the caves were reminiscent of the Blue Grotto off the Italian island of Capri.
The Basics
For a comprehensive experience of the Blue Grotto and the surrounding area, book a half-day tour that includes a stop at the Marsaxlokk Market, or a full-day tour around Malta that might include sights such as the Hagar Qim Temples. Most visits to the Blue Grotto depart from Valletta and last anywhere between four and nine hours. If not combining a trip to the caves with other Malta attractions, it’s possible to buy tickets for a 20- to 3-minute boat tour upon arrival at Wied Iz-Zurrieq, the harbor closest to the caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to wear a lifejacket while on a boat, and be aware that the walk down to the boats in the harbor is steep.
- Before descending to the harbor, stop and enjoy the panoramic view that includes a large limestone arch.
- Boats to the Blue Grotto will not run if the sea is too rough.
- Scuba diving is available from Wied Iz-Zurrieq.
How to Get There
The Blue Grotto is on Malta’s south coast, just east of the fishing harbor of Wied Iz-Zurrieq, in the village of Qrendi. To get to Wied Iz-Zurrieq, take bus 201 from either Rabat or the airport; the ride takes about 30 minutes. Many Malta tours stop at the Blue Grotto, including a hop-on, hop-off bus.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the Blue Grotto is first thing on a sunny morning, when the sea is calm and the crowds have not arrived yet. Cave views are best between sunrise and 1pm, with several caverns mirroring the phosphorescent colors of underwater flora and others reflecting deep shades of blue.
A Full-Day Tour of Malta
The Blue Grotto is commonly visited as part of a full-day tour of Malta starting in the capital city of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and European Capital of Culture. Whether touring with a guide or solo, be sure to visit the catacombs of St. Paul and St. Agatha in Rabat and check out the walled city of Mdina, as well as the charming fishing village of Marsaxlokk, with its popular market. Comino Island is a good stop for swimming and snorkeling in the blue lagoon, and the Dingli Cliffs—the highest point on the island—offer superb views.
Address: Malta
From $ 23
Bled Castle (Blejski Grad)
Built into a rocky precipice in the Julian Alps foothills of northwest Slovenia, Bled Castle sits high above the stunning blue-green Lake Bled. With moats, a drawbridge, ramparts, towers, and terraces with magnificent views of the lake, this 9th-century fortress is everything you would imagine a medieval fairy-tale castle to be.
The Basics
There is much to see and do at Bled Castle. Tour the castle grounds, learn about Bled’s history in the castle museum and view its extensive collection of medieval armor and weapons, browse the wine cellar and enjoy a tasting, and enjoy incredible panoramas of Lake Bled from the castle terrace.
Entrance to Bled Castle requires an admission ticket, which you can book in advance online or purchase at the gate. You’re welcome to explore Slovenia’s oldest castle on your own or book a guided tour of the castle grounds and museum. To see even more of Lake Bled, combine a Bled Castle tour with a Bled Island trip or Vintgar Gorge tour. Most tours of the region from Bled, Ljubljana, Piran, Zagreb and Pula (Croatia), and Trieste (Italy) visit the castle; some tours also stop at Postojna Cave and other area highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bled Castle is essential for castle and medieval architecture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to the region.
- Book tickets or tours in advance to save time at the gate.
- Reserve a table at the Bled Castle Restaurant and get free admission to the castle.
- Check the castle events schedule and perhaps catch a musical performance or medieval duel reenactment.
- Bled Castle is not easily accessible for wheelchair users or strollers.
How to Get There
Bled Castle is easily reached by car from the town of Bled, and there is parking right outside the castle gate. Many guided tours include transportation by bus or private car. You can also take a taxi from town to the castle or hike one of the scenic pathways that head up from the lake.
When to Get There
Bled Castle is open year-round with extended hours during the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit first thing in the morning or an hour or two before closing time. Bled Castle also hosts special events such as medieval festivals, farmers markets, and music performances.
Dining in the Castle Restaurant
Book a table at the Bled Castle Restaurant and enjoy traditional Slovenian flavors and superb views of Lake Bled from the terrace. With a restaurant reservation, you’ll enjoy free admission to the castle, which you can explore before or after your meal. Dining at the castle restaurant is popular, so book well in advance.
Address: Grajska cesta, Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Blue Lagoon
To understand why Iceland's Blue Lagoon is so popular, just imagine bathing in steaming milky-blue waters, sipping a cocktail at a swim-up bar, and looking out over an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks and black lava fields. This geothermal pool, the most visited of Iceland's many such oases, boasts mineral-rich waters, a luxurious spa, and a magnificent setting, all just minutes from Reykjavik.
The Basics
A soak in the famous Blue Lagoon is a must for visitors to Reykjavik, and its close proximity to Keflavik International Airport makes it a perfect spot to relax and unwind pre- or post-flight. Booking ahead is required, and there are a number of options and extras to choose from, including towels, bathrobes, spa treatments, and special face masks. On-site facilities include a hotel, restaurant, cafe, bar, and spa shop. Tours make experiencing the lagoon complex a cinch, as most include hotel pickup and round-trip transport from Reykjavik, and some combine a Blue Lagoon visit with other activities such as a city sightseeing tour, a Golden Circle tour, or a whale-watching cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Blue Lagoon can get very busy, so be prepared to wait in line to get in (tours can lessen the wait), and leave plenty of time for your visit.
- Bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip-flops, or rent them upon arrival. Lockers are provided to store your belongings.
- The Blue Lagoon is fully wheelchair accessible. Shallow areas and steps are available for children and non-swimmers.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the site.
How to Get There
The Blue Lagoon is 29 miles (47 kilometers) southwest of Reykjavik, along the Reykjanes Peninsula. It's about 50 minutes by road; the public bus takes a bit longer. Many visitors choose to visit en route to or from Keflavik Airport, 14 miles (23 kilometers) north of the Blue Lagoon, or a 20-minute drive.
When to Get There
The Blue Lagoon is open year-round, and the busiest times are from May to September. To avoid the biggest crowds and highest prices, visit outside the peak months of July and August. If you do go in summer, arrive in the early morning, late afternoon, or evening for a somewhat quieter experience.
The Healing Powers of the Blue Lagoon
The geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon are typically heated to between 98°F and 104°F (37°C and 40°C), and are famous for their high levels of silica, algae, and minerals, which make up the reason for the lagoon's cloudy blue appearance. The mineral-rich waters have long been reputed for their healing properties and are reported to help skin conditions including psoriasis and eczema. If you'd like to do more than soak, there is also a sauna, steam room, man-made waterfall, silica mud masks, and in-water massages.
Address: 240 Grindavik, Grindavik, Iceland
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Bled Island
Overview
With its picture-perfect church and ornate steeple peeking out above the treeline and perched on Bled Lake, tiny Bled Island looks like something out of a fairy tale. Local tradition has it that a groom must carry his bride up all 99 steps that lead from the island’s dock to the church to ensure a happy marriage.
The Basics
There is no charge to visit the island, and visitors can arrive via traditional pletna boat or a rented private rowboat. You are free to explore the island’s café, gallery, and souvenir shop; however, an admission fee is required to enter the church. Many tours include transportation to Bled Island, and some include visits to other Bled sights such as dramatic, cliffside Bled Castle or the stunning Vintgar gorge. Adventurous travelers can swim out to the island from the lake’s west shore, although entering the church in a swimsuit is not allowed.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bled Island is a must-see for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts.
- Pletna boats are not wheelchair accessible, and the climb to the church requires that visitors be reasonably fit.
- For the best views of Bled Island, hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint in Bled.
- Be sure to try Bled’s famous cream cake, which can be purchased at the island café.
How to Get There
The most popular way to visit the island is by traditional pletna boat; these depart regularly from several lakeside locations for the 20-minute trip. Another option is to rent a boat and row out to the island yourself. If you’re a strong swimmer, you can easily reach the island from the west shore.
When to Get There
Bled Island is best visited in spring, summer, and fall, but may be visited in the winter if the lake does not freeze over. Summer can be quite busy, so make sure to book a Bled Island tour in advance or get in line early to score a spot on a pletna boat.
Ringing the Bled Island Bell
Legend has it that the church bell was a gift from 16th-century Pope Clement VII himself, presented after the first bell sank to the bottom of the lake. Today, you can climb to the top of the belfry and make a wish. The pope decreed, locals say, that if you ring the bell three times, your wish will come true.
Address: Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
Admission: Varies
From $ 58
Bodegas Torres
A trip to Barcelona isn’t complete without sampling some of Catalonia’s renowned wines and the Bodegas Torres, Spain’s largest winery, is the perfect place to start. A sprawling vineyard dominating the famous Penedés region, the winery is owned by the legendary Torres’ family, whose wine and brandy making legacy dates back more than 140 years.
Less than an hour from Barcelona, the Torres Winery makes a popular day trip for both locals and tourists, where you’ll not only get the chance to sample some of the world-class wine varieties, but to tour the winery and learn about the winemaking process. Founded in 1870, the historic vineyards produce some of the region’s most acclaimed grapes, maturing their wines in small oak barrels similar to those produced in Bordeaux and exporting to over 120 countries around the globe. The barrels, wine cellars, fermentation tanks and bottling plants are all open to the public on the tours, along with the fascinating Torres Museum, where a multi-language audio visual presentation will fill you in on the area’s rich wine culture. Best of all, a small train will whisk you on a tour of the vineyards, where around 1,300 hectares of vines lie basking in the Catalonian sun.
Less than an hour from Barcelona, the Torres Winery makes a popular day trip for both locals and tourists, where you’ll not only get the chance to sample some of the world-class wine varieties, but to tour the winery and learn about the winemaking process. Founded in 1870, the historic vineyards produce some of the region’s most acclaimed grapes, maturing their wines in small oak barrels similar to those produced in Bordeaux and exporting to over 120 countries around the globe. The barrels, wine cellars, fermentation tanks and bottling plants are all open to the public on the tours, along with the fascinating Torres Museum, where a multi-language audio visual presentation will fill you in on the area’s rich wine culture. Best of all, a small train will whisk you on a tour of the vineyards, where around 1,300 hectares of vines lie basking in the Catalonian sun.
Address: Carrer de Miquel Torres Carbo 6, 08720 Vilafranca del Penedes, Barcelona, Spain
Admission: Contact winery for details
From $ 68
Blue Caves
The bright blue, turquoise waters of the Greek Islands have inspired many a postcard, but it is difficult to imagine a more beautiful spot than the Blue Caves of Zakinthos, an island with a unique landscape of steep coastal cliffs, green valleys and many gulfs and beaches.
Carved by thousands of years of erosion and changes in geology, the Blue Caves are most famous for the color of the water in the deepest sections, which glows particularly brightly in the morning hours. The reflection of the clear blue waters on the white stone walls of the caves creates an almost surreal environment that can be seen on a boat cruise of the area.
Practical Info
The Blue Caves are located on the northern part of Zakynthos, east of Cape Skinari. They can be reached via boat cruise.
Address: Ionian Islands, Greece, Greece
From $ 42