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Coniston Water
The third-largest lake in the English Lake District doesn’t fail to impress; at 5 miles (8 km) long, 184 feet (56 m) deep and half a mile (0.8 km) wide, it has been a favorite of kayak and canoe aficionados for several decades now and continues to entice visitors seeking stunning scenery and a feel for the much-hyped Lake District. Once the main fish source for the monks of Furness Abbey in the 13th century, it is now the home of the elegant, Victorian-era steam yacht Gondola, which sails from one end of the lake to the other between March and November.
Around the lake, there are three main villages, Coniston, Brantwood and Hawkshead, where visitors can sleep, eat, drink and shop as they please. Hawkshead is particularly lovely and easy to explore on foot, featuring charming cobble lanes and the fan-favorite Beatrix Potter Gallery.
Coniston Water has been depicted several times in fiction, with its most famous mention in Arthur Ransome’s novel Swallows and Amazons. The lake also received major international and local press during the 20th century because of the role it played in many water-speed world-record attempts. The record was finally set on August 19, 1939, by Sir Malcom Campbell. His son, Donald, subsequently tried to achieve the mind-boggling 300-miles-per-hour record in 1967 but was tragically killed on the second leg of his attempt. The Ruskin Museum in Brantwood features a complete exhibition on the event.
Bicycles; motor, sailing and rowing boats; canoes; and kayaks are available for hire at Coniston Boating Centre. Trekking is also a popular activity among visitors, as the lake is surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery, including the famed Old Man of Coniston.
Practical Info
Coniston Water is located in the south of Lake District National Park and can be reached from Liverpool and Manchester by car in two hours via the M6, the A590 and the A592.
Address: Lake District, England
From $ 62
Constantine Palace
Located in the seaside town of Strelna, the Constantine Palace today forms part of the National Congress Palace complex of St. Petersburg. Strelna was originally chosen by Peter the Great to be the site of his summer residence in 1714, but the palace stood unfinished until the early 19th century. It served as a residence for the Romanov grand dukes until falling into decay after the Russian Revolution. Later, all interior decorations were stripped during the German occupation of St. Petersburg.
In 2001, Vladimir Putin ordered the palace to be renovated and converted into a presidential residence. It hosted more than 50 heads of state during St. Petersburg’s tercentenary celebration in 2003 and recently held the qualifying draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Visitors to the palace today can see exhibitions of Russian painting, decorative and applied arts and the history of Russian glass production from the 1700s. The palace also boasts a thousand masterpieces of Russian art from the 17th to 20th centuries, based on collection of Russian musicians Rostropovich and Vishnevskaya.
Practical Info
Constantine Palace is located in Strelna, about halfway between St Petersburg and Peterhof and can be reached by hydrofoil from St Petersburg in about 25 minutes. It is also possible to get there by tram 36 or 60 from the Avtovo Metro station or marshrutka T-300, T-103 or T-424. The palace is open daily except Wednesdays, from noon until 6:00 p.m. and can be visited only by guided tour.
Address: Berezovaya alleya, 3, Strelna, Russia
From $ 109
Cork
Perhaps the most important thing to understand about Cork is that it’s not another Dublin. As the second largest city in Ireland, Cork and its residents have a sense of independence and identity all of their own, and if there’s one way to upset a local it’s with comparisons to the Irish capital. When visiting what locals call “the real Irish capital,” ring the famous Shandon Bells in the church looking over the city, or go deep into an Irish prison in the dungeon-like Cork City Gaol.
Downtown Cork is a maze of bridges that span the River Lee and connect the marshlands and small island where the city center was built. It’s a city that’s best explored by foot, where sights like the towering St. Finnbarr’s Cathedral literally spring from the streets. It’s also a city that’s often used as a base for visiting the Blarney Stone—the famous stone that’s believed to bring eloquence to anyone who gives it a kiss. By night, Cork is a hotbed of trendy cuisine and hip, artsy pubs, and since it’s also a university a town, a place where youthful enthusiasm and energy carries deep into the night.
Practical Info
Cork has direct flights from major European cities and is three hours from Dublin by car. There’s also a weekly ferry to France that runs from April-October, and the city is serviced by bus and train from all major cities in Ireland.
Address: Cork, Ireland
From $ 21
Copenhagen Opera House
Since opening its doors in 2005, the Copenhagen Opera House has quickly secured its place as one of the capital’s most iconic buildings, with its futuristic roof canopy looming over the waterfront of Copenhagen harbor. The award-winning design, which spans 41,000 square meters and 14 stories, was created by local architect Henning Larsen and features equally captivating interiors, including a striking marble foyer and a gold-plated auditorium roof, shimmering with 24-carat gold leaf.
The opulent surroundings are the home stage of the Royal Danish Opera but the Opera House’s varied schedule includes everything from classical, ballet and opera performances to jazz concerts, held on the 1,500 seat main stage, alongside a roster of experimental works held on the smaller Takkelloftet stage. The principal opera season runs from mid-August until June, when guided tours of the impressive building are also available.
Address: Ekvipagemestervej 10, Copenhagen, Denmark
From $ 13
Corfu Cruise Port
The main port on the sun-soaked Greek island serves as a gateway to the pristine beaches of the coastline, the verdant mountainous interior, and Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Disembarking cruisers can experience Mediterranean beaches, traditional Greek gastronomy, and historic sites.
The Basics
Cruise ships arriving in Corfu dock at Neo Limani (New Port) in Corfu Town. Shore excursions often include guided walking tours of Corfu Old Town, covering sights such as Spianada (Esplanade) square, the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio), and ornate 16th-century St. Spyridon Church. Some shore excursions incorporate other island highlights, including 19th-century Achillion Palace, built by Empress Sisi of Austria, and the village of Paleokastritsa, known for its beach and 15th-century Venetian monastery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most Corfu shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at the cruise port.
- Corfu shore excursions typically last for 5–6 hours and allow you to see not only Corfu Old Town, but also other attractions scattered around the island.
- Note than many restaurants and shops close for a siesta between 3pm and 5pm.
How to Get to Corfu Town from the Corfu Cruise Port
The cruise port is situated just over 1 mile (2 kilometers) west of Corfu Old Town. Local buses connect the port with the town of Corfu, and many cruise ships docking here run shuttle buses to the center of town too. Taxis are available at the cruise terminal, and the walk to town from the cruise port takes 20–30 minutes.
Port Information
The terminal at the cruise port is well equipped with passenger facilities, including an ATM and car rental agencies. A tourist information kiosk can be found on Spianada square.
Address: Xen Stratigou 2, Kerkyra, Corfu 49100, Greece
From $ 105
Conciergerie
With its castle-like turrets and dramatic riverfront location, La Conciergerie is an imposing sight, stretching along the west side of the Île de la Cité. Once part of the Palais de la Cité, along with the neighboring Palais de Justice and Sainte Chapelle, the former medieval palace is best known for its role in the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror, when it served as a prison.
An estimated 3,000 prisoners were held at the Conciergerie prior to being taken to the guillotine during the Reign of Terror, among them Charlotte Corday, Madame Élisabeth, poet André Chénier and Marie Antoinette, and it continued to serve as a prison until it was decommissioned in 1914. Today, La Conciergerie is preserved as a National Monument and visitors can discover its dark legacy on a tour of the grounds, including the Prisoners’ Gallery, Marie-Antoinette’s dungeon, the Great Hall and the 14th-century Tour de l’Horloge, the Conciergerie’s 47-meter high Clock Tower, which displays Paris’ oldest clock.
Practical Info
The Conciergerie is located on Île de la Cité in central Paris, close to Notre Dame Cathedral, and is open daily from 9:30am-6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is €8.50.
Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais - Île de la Cité, Paris, France
Hours: Open daily from 9.30am-6pm
Admission: Adult: €8.50
From $ 10
Corniglia
Pint-sized Corniglia might be the smallest of Italy’s Cinque Terre seaside villages, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in dramatic scenery and rustic beauty. Climb the dizzying 365 steps to the clifftop hamlet and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over the neighboring villages and a cluster of charming shops, cafés, and restaurants.
The Basics
Corniglia’s tiny size means it’s best suited for a day trip rather than as a base for exploring the region. Day tours to Corniglia run from La Spezia, Florence, and Milan, and typically include visits to the neighboring villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, and Manarola, as well as a stop in nearby Portovenere. It’s a popular stop for hikers exploring Cinque Terre National Park, which encompasses all five Cinque Terre towns.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Corniglia can get busy in peak summer season, so book tours and accommodations in advance.
- Day trips from Florence to the Cinque Terre can last upwards of 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.
- Bring comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as the village roads are steep and often uneven.
- While some hotels and tourist attractions in Corniglia are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the village’s steep and narrow lanes can be challenging for those with mobility issues to navigate.
How to Get There
Located in Cinque Terre National Park, between Vernazza and Manarola along the Italian Riviera, Corniglia is a 2.5-hour drive from Florence or 50-minute drive from La Spezia. Parking is very limited in Corniglia, so unless you are staying in town overnight, it’s best to join a tour or arrive by train from La Spezia (a 15-minute ride). On arrival at the train station, it’s a steep walk or short shuttle bus ride to reach the cliff-top village. Corniglia is the only one of the five Cinque Terre towns not accessible by ferry.
When to Get There
Corniglia and Cinque Terre see the most visitors and the highest temperatures—upwards up 100°F (40°C)—during the summer. Hikers should aim to visit in May or September to avoid the peak heat, while budget-minded travelers might want to skip August, when hotel prices skyrocket. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in inclement weather.
Corniglia’s Most Stunning Viewpoints
When it comes to Corniglia’s sweeping views, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Climb the 365-step Scalinata Lardarina up to the village for the most impressive vistas, then make your way to the oceanfront terrace at the top for a panoramic view along Cinque Terre and watch the sunset from Bar Terza Terra. Alternatively, hike the coastal road to Vernazza or Manarola, enjoying expansive looks over the Mediterranean Sea.
Address: Corniglia, Italy
From $ 139
Corinth
With its spectacular mountainside setting looking out over the Gulf of Corinth, the ancient city of Corinth is one of the most impressive in the Peloponnese. The remarkably preserved Roman ruins are the star attraction for visitors, while the modern town of Corinth sits on the coast, a short drive from the famous Corinth Canal.
The Basics
Most visitors head straight for the archaeological site of ancient Corinth, where the most memorable monument is the Doric Temple of Apollo, which dates back to 540 BC. Other highlights of a walking tour include the Peirene Fountain, the ancient theater, the Peribolos of Apollo, and the Roman Odeon.
It’s possible to explore on a half-day tour from Athens, but full-day tours often combine a visit to Corinth with the nearby acropolis of Acrocorinth, the Byzantine monastery of Daphni, the ancient city of Mycenae, or the seaside town of Nafplio.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an entrance fee to visit the Corinth archaeological site, which includes entry to the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore ancient Corinth; the archaeological site has uneven and hilly terrain.
- Some parts of the site are accessible for wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility, but the ground is pebbly in parts and assistance may be required.
How to Get There
Corinth is located along the coast of the Gulf of Corinth on the Peloponnese Peninsula. Cross the Corinth Canal if you’re driving from Athens. Buses run from Athens to the modern town of Corinth, and there are also direct trains from Athens airport. From Corinth town, regular buses run up the short distance to the ancient city, around 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) away.
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit Corinth year-round, but the busiest period is during the summer months of July and August. Making an early start is advisable, but not only to escape the crowds—the ruins offer little shade and the midday sun can be unbearably hot.
Corinth Canal
Linking mainland Greece to the Peloponnese Peninsula, the Roman-built Corinth Canal is an impressive feat of engineering. A hugely important navigational route during the 19th century, modern cruise or freight ships no longer use the narrow isthmus connecting the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf today. However, the dramatic cliffs provide a thrilling backdrop for sightseeing cruises, and the canal bridges are a popular spot for bungee jumping.
Address: Corinth, Greece
From $ 54
Constitution Square (Plaza de la Constitucion)
Malaga’s largest and most iconic public square, the Plaza de la Constitution holds significance in both the city’s past and present. Serving as a public space since the 15th century, it remains an important center of Malaga daily life today. Palm trees sit beside historic Spanish architecture surrounding the fountain Fuente de Génova. Lined with alleyways full of small shops and cafes, it is a largely pedestrian area that’s great for exploring the city’s history.
The square was home to Malaga’s city hall until the 19th century, having since been renamed from Plaza de Cuatro Calles (four streets) and the Plaza Mayor. Once the home of festivals, celebrations, and even bullfights, it is now a central meeting spot for residents of the city. Cultural, political, and religious events still take place here throughout the year, including the impressive Semana Santa processions and festivities.
It is considered to be the heart of Malaga’s historical quarter and a must-see while in the city.
Practical Info
Located in the center of Malaga, the square can be approached via the historic Calle Larios. It is open all hours of the day and best explored on foot.
Address: Plaza de la Constitucion, Malaga, Andalucia, Spain
Hours: 24/7
From $ 17
Congress Square
Ljubljana’s Congress Square (Kongresni trg) is an historical Baroque piazza uniting some of the city's most beautiful buildings and popular attractions—yet it's best known as a place to relax. Built in 1821 just a street over from the main area of old town, the peaceful square and verdant Park Zvezda (Star Park) that sits in its middle offer locals and visitors a quiet place to eat, read, and soak in views of the city's iconic hilltop castle.
The University of Ljubljana and Slovenian Philharmonic line the southern flank of the square, while the Baroque-designed Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity and popular Kazina are found on the square's north end. Also nearby are excavations of the Roman settlement of Emona.
Though most popular in summer when an open-air cinema plays free movies in the park in August, the square's surrounding Biedermeier-style architecture, convenient cafes, and beautiful scenery make it a major stop on most walking and cycling tours of Ljubljana.
Practical Info
Congress Square, or Kongresni trg, is located in old town Ljubljana. There is no admission fee and it is best accessed on foot, but most bus lines stop in close proximity to the park.
Did You Know? Congress Square plays an important role in the national psyche as it was here that Slovenia’s independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire was celebrated in 1918, and here where the Slovenes gathered to demonstrate for freedom from Yugoslavia in 1991.
Address: Kongresni trg, Ljubljana, Central Slovenia, Slovenia
From $ 20
Connor Pass
Conor Pass is the highest mountain pass in Ireland at 1,345 feet above sea level. It is on the Dingle Peninsula in southwestern Ireland, and it is located along the road that runs from Dingle on the southern end of the peninsula towards Brandon Bay and Castlegregory. The road is narrow and twisting as it weaves its way through steep cliffs. Those driving on Conor Pass will have spectacular views of the glaciated landscapes, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and the coast. It is considered one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Ireland.
Starting from Dingle Town, the road rises 1,500 feet as it approaches the pass. There is a parking lot at the highest point where you can stop and admire the views of the coast. Then as you continue along the road, you will pass Brandon Bay and more cliffs, waterfalls, and lakes. The road also crosses the Brandon Mountains with Ireland's second highest peak, Brandon Mountain at 3,217 feet tall. The road is usually open all year but can be closed during winter months due to weather or if the snow has not been cleared.
Starting from Dingle Town, the road rises 1,500 feet as it approaches the pass. There is a parking lot at the highest point where you can stop and admire the views of the coast. Then as you continue along the road, you will pass Brandon Bay and more cliffs, waterfalls, and lakes. The road also crosses the Brandon Mountains with Ireland's second highest peak, Brandon Mountain at 3,217 feet tall. The road is usually open all year but can be closed during winter months due to weather or if the snow has not been cleared.
Practical Info
Conor Pass can be reached by driving northeast from Dingle Town or by driving southwest from Castlegregory. Length and weight restrictions prohibit certain vehicles, such as campervans and trucks, from using the pass.
Address: South West Ireland, Ireland
From $ 60
Connemara
Wild, beautiful, and sparsely populated, Connemara, extending from Galway to the Atlantic Ocean, is Ireland at its most rugged and elemental. The indented Atlantic coastline is interspersed with beaches and seaside hamlets, while the interior encompasses bog, mountains, lakes, and empty valleys where sheep outnumber people.
The Basics
With knock-your-socks-off beauty and a promise of peace and solitude, the westerly region of Connemara holds great sway among Ireland visitors and locals alike. If you’re into outdoor adventures, take part in guided and self-guided nature walks and hikes around Connemara National Park. Or go sea kayaking around the Wild Atlantic Way coastline, where dolphins, seals, and basking sharks inhabit the waters.
You can also explore the region during sightseeing day tours from Galway, which often incorporate stops at Kylemore Abbey, Pearse’s Cottage, Roundstone, Derrigimlagh Bog, and Killary Fjord, as well as the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Connemara is a must-see for sightseers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as many hiking trails in the region have rocky, uneven surfaces.
- If you plan on spending much time exploring outdoors, bring a rainproof outer layer, water, and sunscreen.
- Gaeltachts (Irish-speaking regions) are scattered throughout Connemara.
How to Get There
Connemara is west of Galway city, with the Atlantic Ocean marking its south and west boundaries. Public transportation is sparse here, so the best way to get around is by car or organized tour, most of which depart from Galway city. Driving from Dublin takes about four hours.
When to Get There
The best time of the year to visit Connemara is between June and October, when mild temperatures make exploring outdoors easier. July and August are the busiest months, so if you plan on visiting then, you may want to hit the most popular spots early in the morning to beat the crowds. In winter, Connemara has a stark, desolate beauty, and tourists are few and far between.
Connemara’s Hollywood Connections
Among the most picturesque villages of Connemara is Leenane, which is set on the edge of Ireland’s only fjord, and was the filming location for The Field, a 1990 film starring Richard Harris. Elsewhere in Connemara, between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, sits the village of Cong, which still retains a collection of traditional thatched cottages. It was here that The Quiet Man was filmed back in 1951.
Address: Connemara, County Galway, Ireland
From $ 64
Cong
Set between the lakes of Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, the idyllic village of Cong is known for its pretty, thatched-roof cottages and its starring role in the Oscar-winning movie, The Quiet Man, where it was upstaged only by the lead actor — John Wayne.
Covering 350 acres, Ashford Castle and its grounds are also a popular visit while in Cong. The old country estate of the Guinness family, today it’s one of Ireland’s finest 5-star hotels that’s hosted everyone from Brad Pitt to Princess Grace of Monaco.
Surrounded by forests, streams, and lakes, Cong sits on the border of County Galway and County Mayo. While in the village, a popular attraction is the ruins of Cong Abbey. Dating back to the 13th century, the abbey is the burial site of the last High King of Ireland, Rory O’Connor, and a National Monument of Ireland that’s said to feature some of the country’s finest medieval ecclesiastic architecture.
Cong is also where Celtic art originated. The original Cross of Cong can be seen at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin. Kayaking trips along the Cong river are a favorite among visitors, as are boat trips across Lough Corrib — the biggest lake in Ireland, and movie fans can visit the village’s The Quiet Man Museum, which is dedicated to the 1952 film.
Practical Info
28 miles from Galway City, there are about three buses a day that will take you to Cong. The Quiet Man Museum is open from 10am to 4pm, and entrance costs €5. Admission to Cong Abbey is free, and the ruins are open from dawn til dusk.
Address: Cong, Ireland
From $ 35
Conwy Castle
In many ways the ideal of a medieval castle, the imposing Conwy Castle was built for Edward I in 1289, during his conquest of Wales. Featuring crenelated towers and soaring defensive walls, it stands on the River Conwy, near the rugged splendor of Snowdonia National Park. Today, Conwy Castle holds UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
The Basics
Conwy Castle is typically included as a stop on coach tours through the British countryside. For those looking to visit independently, its proximity to Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, and Snowdonia National Park makes it a popular stop-off point, whether you plan to travel by car or by train. Joint admission tickets to Conwy Castle and Plas Mawr, an Elizabethan townhouse in Conwy Town, are available to purchase at a discounted rate.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Conwy Castle and Town are surrounded by defensive walls that are classed as some of the finest in Europe, and which can also be explored.
- This UNESCO-listed, 13th-century landmark is the perfect destination for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Views of the sea and the mountains of Snowdonia can be admired from the castle’s battlements.
- While its roof no longer remains, you can still see the castle’s great hall, private chambers, royal chapel, and other interior landmarks.
How to Get There
Guided coach tours offer the simplest form of transit to Conwy Castle. Visitors can also travel by train to Conwy Station, which is located just steps from the landmark. It can also be reached by car via the A55 or B5106.
When to Get There
Conwy Castle is open daily throughout the year, with the exception of December 24, 25, 26, and January 1. Typical visiting hours are between 9:30am and 6pm, with last admission 30 minutes before closing. Conwy Castle also hosts a series of special events for the whole family throughout the year, which feature costumed characters, archery demonstrations, and other medieval-themed entertainment.
North Wales’ Other Remarkable Castles
Conwy isn’t the only castle in North Wales that’s worth your while. If your tour of the castle has inspired you to explore the region’s other medieval highlights, set your sights on nearby Beaumaris Castle, Caernarfon Castle, and Harlech Castle. All hold UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and all were designed by military architect James of St. George, who worked closely with Edward I.
Address: Rose Hill St, Conwy, Wales
Admission: Varies
From $ 1,298
Corralejo Dunes Natural Park
The Canary Islands sit just 70 miles (113 kilometers) off the coast of western Africa. But the 6,425 acres (2,600 hectares) of rolling sand dunes within Fuerteventura’s Corralejo Dunes National Park might have you thinking you’re visiting the African continent as opposed to a beach-filled archipelago.
The Basics
In addition to housing the biggest and best dunes in the Canary Islands, Corralejo Dunes National Park also boasts a rugged and dramatic volcanic landscape, dominated by red jagged rock formations and Montaña Roja (Red Mountain) volcano. Day trips to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote often include time at the national park for exploring the beaches and dunes, as well as visits to the hamlet of Betancuria, Church of Our Lady of Regla, and the town of Corralejo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Corralejo Dunes National Park is a must-visit for adventure travelers and sun seekers.
- Be mindful when swimming at the park beaches—there are no lifeguards on duty and currents can be strong.
- Bring a towel, bathing suit, sun protection, and water to enjoy the park’s beaches.
- Wear comfortable hiking boots, especially if you plan to explore the park’s volcanic landscapes.
- Day trips from Lanzarote can last upwards of 10 hours depending on the option chosen.
How to Get There
The national park lies just off the FV-1 road between Puerto del Rosario and the town of Corralejo. If you’re staying on neighboring Lanzarote, the easiest way to reach the park is via ferry from Playa Blanca to Corralejo or by joining a guided tour.
When to Get There
Fuerteventura is hot and sunny throughout the year, making the national park’s beautiful beaches appealing no matter the season. If you plan to do some hiking in the park, plan to visit between April and June or October, when temperatures are slightly cooler.
What’s in the Sand?
Though the undulating fine white sands of the Fuerteventura dunes are surely reminiscent of the desert, the granules in Corralejo Dunes Natural Park are in fact actually made up of tiny little pieces of shell and mollusk, as opposed to anything rocky.
Address: Fuerteventura, Spain
From $ 17
Corfu Town
The capital of the Greek island of Corfu, Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Twin fortresses, known as the Old Fortress and the New Fortress, stand atop two hills overlooking the old town, where you’ll find cobbled lanes strung with clotheslines, squares, museums, and an astonishing number of churches for a city of its size.
The Basics
Corfu Town is a charming place for a shop or a wander, and among the best places on the island to delve into local history. The town is a common stop-off on day tours of the island, which typically combine a guided walking tour of the city with stops at the likes of Achillion Palace, the Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Paleokastritsa, Kanoni, and some of the island’s beaches.
For history buffs exploring independently, there are several interesting museums, including the Antivouniotissa Museum, which displays Byzantine artwork and artifacts, and Corfu Living History, a waxwork-filled townhouse showcasing life on the island in the mid-19th century.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Corfu Town is a must for history buffs and souvenir shoppers.
- Wear sturdy shoes for strolling around Corfu Town as many of the streets are cobbled.
- The narrow streets, cobblestone surfaces, and stepped entrances of the old town make wheelchair access difficult.
How to Get There
Corfu Town is situated on the east coast of the island. Travelers arriving by cruise ship usually dock at a port just over 1 mile (2 kilometers) west of the old town, and local buses and shuttle buses run between the two. Local blue bus 15 travels between Corfu Town and the airport, about 1 mile (2 kilometers) southwest of town.
When to Get There
Corfu Town, particularly the historical core, is busiest between June and August. As a visit requires some walking and the midday heat can be intense, it’s best to come either early in the morning or in late afternoon. Note that some restaurants and shops close for a siesta between around 3pm and 5pm.
What to See and Do in Corfu Town
Part of the pleasure of Corfu Town is simply wandering about and seeing what you happen upon, whether a quiet back alley or a bustling square. There are several sights in Corfu Town worth seeking out, including the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, which displays everything from Chinese ceramics to Japanese samurai armour. Elsewhere, the arcade-lined Liston promenade is a good place to shop, while Spianada Square is ideal for people-watching.
Address: Corfu, Greece
From $ 69
Cordoba Synagogue
Located in the heart of Córdoba's Jewish Quarter, and just blocks away from the Mezquita, sits one of Spain's most unique connections to the past: the Synagogue of Córdoba.
Constructed in the 14th century, Córdoba's synagogue is the Judería's (Jewish Quarter's) main attraction and is one-of-a-kind in the Andalucía region. This is because, while the Jewish community once played a very key role on the Iberian Peninsula -- especially during the Moorish Caliphate -- much of Jewish culture was eradicated and expelled in 1492 during the Spanish Inquisition. As a result, Córdoba's synagogue and two others in the city of Toledo remain as the only lasting structures of their kind from pre-Inquisition Spain.
The small Córdoba synagogue houses a courtyard, prayer room and women's gallery. With a humble brick exterior, the small interior features walls with intricate Hebrew inscriptions, scalloped archways and Mudéjar plasterwork, reminiscent of the ivory-colored carvings you might see in the Alcázar of Seville or even the textured facades of the Alhambra Palace.
After serving as a place of worship (which ended, of course, with the Spanish Inquisition), the once-synagogue had various functions: from that of a hospital to a chapel and even a school. Now, it is open to the public as a museum, providing a rare look into the Jewish culture's presence in Spanish history.
Practical Info:
The synagogue is open every day of the week except Mondays, and is free to enter for European citizens, and only €0.30 for everyone else. It’s quite small, and located near the Grand Mosque; therefore worth the quick visit.
Address: Calle de los Judíos, 20, 14004, Cordoba, Spain
Hours: Tues-Sat: 9:30am-2pm and 3:30-5:30pm; Sun/Holiday: 9:30am-5:30pm
Admission: General: €0.30, EU members: free
From $ 40
Correr Civic Museum (Museo Civico Correr)
Dedicated to the art and history of Venice, Correr Civic Museum (Museo Correr) holds objects from the city’s past, including neoclassical sculptures, books, medallions, documents, paintings, musical instruments, and Greek and Roman statues. Located in the ornate palaces lining St. Mark’s Square, the museum includes neoclassical rooms decorated in the period’s opulent style.
The Basics
Set in the 16th-century Procuratie Nuove and 19th-century Napoleonic Wing on St. Mark’s Square, the Correr Civic Museum is home to an extensive collection of Venice artifacts. Sculptures by Antonio Canova and sumptuous Imperial Rooms used by the Hapsburgs during their residency in Venice share space with relics of the Venetian republic, including model ships, maps, and weaponry.
Due to the size and scope of its collections, the Correr Civic Museum is best visited with a guide who can explain the museum’s architecture and art. You can join a private tour of the museum, or take a more general tour that includes skip-the-line entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), and all three St. Mark’s Square museums (Correr Civic Museum, National Archaeological Museum, and Marciana National Library).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets to Correr Civic Museum allow entrance to Doge’s Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, and Marciana National Library.
- The museum entrance is inside the building and up a staircase. Wheelchair users can access it via elevator but should contact the museum in advance to arrange assistance.
- Large bags and backpacks must be left at the free coat check at the entrance.
- Restrooms, a cafe, and a gift shop are located inside the museum.
How to Get There
The main entrance to the Correr Civic Museum is via the monumental staircase in the Napoleonic Wing on St. Mark’s Square. Vaporetto (water bus) lines 1 and 2 stop nearby.
When to Get There
Expect crowds in Venice during summer, with spring or fall seeing fewer visitors. The museum can be a welcome respite from the crush in St. Mark’s Square and is open daily with no midday closing.
The Drawing Room of Europe
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is the geographic and cultural heart of Venice. It’s home to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace at one end and the bell tower in the center. The colonnaded arcade topped by the Procuratie palaces and Napoleonic Wing lines three sides. The square is one of the most popular spots in the city to relax at an outdoor table with a drink and soak in the Venetian atmosphere.
Address: San Marco 52, Venice 30124, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
Cordoba Jewish Quarter
Sprinkled across the Spanish Peninsula, you'll come across Jewish Quarters known as juderías. In Córdoba, which was once considered the most populous city in the world, the Jewish community especially thrived, and now its ancient neighborhood of white buildings is considered one of the most famous juderías in Spain.
The Jewish community indeed played an important role culturally in the history of the Iberian Peninsula. During the Moorish Caliphate -- the period of Islamic rule over Spain which ended in 1031 -- the Jewish community flourished as Córdoba rose as a center for commerce, prosperity, education and religious tolerance.
Of course, in 1492 during the Spanish Inquisition, people of Jewish faith and the religion itself were expelled from Spain, their neighborhoods becoming only artifacts of their presence in the country's history. Among Córboba's Jewish Quarter's most famous sites is undoubtedly the synagogue, one of just three of its kind in Spain that survived the Inquisition (the other two are located in the city of Toledo), and the only one in all of Andalucia.
Also located in the barrio's small streets is Casa Sefarad, a cultural project dedicated to telling the story of Judeo-Spanish history in Spain. Within its walls, you can visit five different rooms, featuring Sephardic music, handicrafts and other cultural artifacts.
While wandering the small streets, keep an eye out for the statue of Maimónides, the famous Jewish doctor and philosopher, and peruse the jewelry and silversmith shops, for which the neighborhood is renowned.
Practical Info:
The Jewish Quarter is situated just to the north and west of the Mezquita, reaching as far west as Puerta de Almodóvar, and east to Calle El Rey Heredia.
Address: Barrio Judío 14001, Cordoba, Spain
From $ 17
Constantine Column
When Constantine established his new capital of the Roman Empire, he commissioned a grand circular forum with a monumental column at its center. Carved from red porphyry stone, the 115-foot (35-meter) column was topped with a golden statue of Apollo bearing Constantine's face.
A storm toppled the statue in 1106, and a fire in 1779 damaged the base (earning it the nickname 'Burnt Stone'). Periodic restoration work has reinforced cracks in the marble, and in 2003, the column underwent a more thorough restoration, though the statue on top has never been replaced. Visitors can see the historic Constantine Column near the Çemberlitas metro station in Istanbul, where city tours often pass by.
Practical Info
Look for the column upon exiting the Çemberlitas metro station or tram stop.
Address: Yeniçeriler Cad. and Vezirhan Cad., Istanbul, Turkey
From $ 57