Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Dajti Mountain
Travelers who want to escape the chaos, noise and energy of Albania’s larger cities will find peace and quiet in the picturesque hills of the Dajti Mountains, located a short drive from Tirana.
Fit and intrepid travelers can hike along scenic trails to the top of this 1,613-meter tall mountain. But those who prefer to take in nature in a more leisurely way can still access all this beautiful destination has to offer, thanks to a cable car that provides a fast track option straight to the top. Travelers can look out over epic views that include the Adriatic Sea, the Port of Durres and more.
Practical Info
Taxis to Dajti are available from Tirana for about 15 Euros. Be sure to arrange a pick up time with the driver for an easy return trip.
There is a restaurant that hangs off the mountain top that showcases some of the best views around, but be mindful that the views can come at a steep price.
Address: Tirana, Albania
From $ 28
Currywurst Museum
Few foods are more iconic than the German fast food sausage dish, Currywurst. Steamed, then fried pork sausage is seasoned with spicy curry ketchup, then served up with a side of crisp and golden French fries. And while this regional dish can be found on just about any street corner in Berlin, it’s the Currywurst Museum located in this eclectic city that really tells the story of this popular treat.
Travelers can wander through galleries dedicated to this fine food and learn about its inception back in the 1940s, as well as how this local dish was made famous in movies, television, music and pop culture. The interactive nature of Currywurst Museum means visitors can taste, touch and smell just about everything. And of course, there’s plenty of opportunity to sample these spicy dogs, too.
Practical Info
The Currywurst Museum is located near Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin. It is accessible via the U-Bahn, bus and S-Bahn. It is open from 10 a.m. until 6p.m. daily. Tickets are 11 euro for adults and 8.5 euro for students and seniors.
Address: Schützenstraße 70, Berlin, Germany
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Admission: 11 euro for adults; 8.5 euro for students and seniors
From $ 16
Curonian Spit & Kursiu Nerija National Park
The Curonian Spit is a 98km (61mi) long sand peninsula that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea. This thin and curved piece of land has its southern half in Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia and its northern half in southwestern Lithuania.
Formed about 5,000 years ago from a glacier, winds and sea currents generate enough sand to keep the Curonian Spit above sea level. In fact, the spit is home to the highest moving sand dunes in Europe. With dunes as high as 60m (196ft) in some places, the width of the spit varies greatly - from a minimum of 400m (1,312ft) in Russia to a maximum of 3,800m (12,467ft) in Lithuania (just north of Nida).
Nida is the largest town on the spit and a popular holiday spot for Lithuanian and German tourists. The spit’s best beaches are around here, along its northern shoreline.
Kuršių Nerija National Park was established in 1991 to protect the unique ecosystems of the Curonian Spit and Curonian Lagoon. Several ecological communities can be found here, from the spits outer beaches to dune ridges, wetlands, meadows, and forests.
The spit and lagoon are a popular feeding and resting ground for a large number of migratory waterfowl, and it is estimated that up to as many as 10 million birds may stop here during their spring and fall migrations.
Practical Info
The Curonian Spit & Kursiu Nerija National Park are UNESCO World Heritage protected and efforts to combat wind and tide erosion through reforestation of the area are ongoing.
The Curonian Spit & Kursiu Nerija National Park is about 200km (124mi) from Kaunas by road and 240km (150mi) by boat (to Nida).
Address: Lithuania
Hours: Open year-round
Admission: Vehcles: 15 Lt, Excursions: 30 - 50 Lt/hr
From $ 52
Custom House
Sitting on the north bank of the River Liffey, this copper-domed neoclassical masterpiece was erected in the 18th century as part of a city-wide project to enhance and beautify Dublin. Originally headquarters of the Commissioners of Custom and Excise, it now houses local government offices and a visitor center tracing the history of the building.
The Basics
Custom House is one of Dublin’s finest neoclassical buildings. Many visitors catch sight of the landmark during walking tours of North Dublin, which typically include other nearby sights such as the Great Irish Famine Memorial, Liberty Hall, and the Jeanie Johnston tall ship. Others see Custom House while en route to the nearby EPIC Irish Emigration Museum, which is just a 5-minute stroll down the riverfront.
In addition to admiring the grand building from outside, visitors can explore the Custom House Visitor Centre. Exhibitions focus on architect James Gandon and the construction of the Custom House; its role in the 1916 Easter Rising; and the events of 1921, when—during the Irish War of Independence—the building was occupied and set on fire by the Irish Republican Army.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Custom House is a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
- Bring a camera to take photos of one of Dublin’s most prominent landmarks.
- Wheelchair users can make advance arrangements to access the visitor center through the main reception on Beresford Place.
How to Get There
Custom House is situated on Custom House Quay in the Dublin Docklands. Ride the DART or train to Tara Street or Connolly Station. The Luas Red Line tram and all intercity and regional buses stop at Busáras station, just a 3-minute walk from Custom House.
When to Get There
Though Custom House can be seen at any time of the year, it’s perhaps most photogenic on a clear, sunny summer day when its copper dome is reflected in the water of the Liffey. The Custom House Visitor Centre opens from mid-March through August.
Best View of Custom House
Though it’s situated on the north side of the River Liffey, Custom House is best viewed from George’s Quay on the south side. From the benches here, you’ll be treated to a full view of the facade, including the central dome, which is topped with a 16-foot-high (5-meter-high) statue of Hope, and the sculpted keystones beneath the frieze, which represent the main rivers of Ireland.
Address: Custom House Quay, Dublin, Ireland
From $ 14
Culross
With its cobbled streets, narrow wynds, and old tollbooth on the shores of the Firth of Forth, Culross (pronounced Koo-ross) is said to be best-preserved 17th-century town in Scotland. Seventeen miles northwest of Edinburgh, Culross once thrived on the trade of coal and salt, but when the coal dried up, so did the prosperity of the town, and so the original merchant’s houses were never demolished or tweaked into Victorian builds.
From the 1930s onwards, the National Trust for Scotland has purchased 20 of the town’s buildings in order to preserve them, and on a visit to the seaside town you can visit Culross Palace, the Study, and the Townhouse through the trust. A walk around the town will take you past whitewashed buildings and stone cottages leading to the abbey, founded by the Cistercians in 1217.
Practical Info
The Palace, Study, and Townhouse buildings are open from April 1 through October 31. Entry costs £10.50 for adults, and one ticket gains access to all areas.
Address: Dunfermline, Fife, United Kingdom, Scotland
Admission: £10.50 for adults
From $ 14
Czestochowa
Sitting on the Warta River in southern Poland, Czestochowa is home to the 14th-century Jasna Gora Monastery, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the world each year. The monastery is home to the Black Madonna painting, a shrine to the Virgin Mary that is credited with many miracles, including saving the monastery from an invasion by the Swedes in the 17th century.
In addition to the monastery, Czestochowa boasts numerous museums, including the Czestochowa Regional Museum and the Museum of Iron Ore Mining. The regional museum consists of several parts: the Town Hall, the Halina Poswiatowska Museum, the Gallery of 19th and 20th-Century Painting and the Archaeological Reserve of Lusatian Culture. The latter is a 2,500-year-old burial ground that also features displays about the Lusatian culture from the Bronze and early Iron Age. Not far from Czestochowa you can also find the ruins of a medieval castle in Olsztyn, a stop along the Trail of Eagles’ Nests tourist route.
Practical Info
Czestochowa sits in between Krakow, Wroclaw and Warsaw, but the nearest airport is at Katowice, from which a shuttle bus runs to Czestochowa a few times a day. The city is also accessible by bus and train from both Warsaw and Krakow, with the bus taking about three hours to each and the train taking about three and a half hours to Warsaw or two hours to Krakow. The bus terminal in Czestochowa is close to the central train station.
Address: Czestochowa, Poland
From $ 35
Dalí Theatre-Museum
The small coastal town of Figueres, just north of Barcelona, is known for one thing: Salvador Dalí. Though the artist's fame brought him to more glamorous parts of Spain, Dalí eventually returned to his hometown of Figueres to build his greatest masterpiece, the Dalí Theatre–Museum. Located in the town's former Municipal Theatre, the site is a work of art in itself. Since this quirky museum was designed by Dalí to showcase his paintings, it offers insight into his imagination with a maze of his works displayed according to his own strange tastes. The museum also houses his crypt and grave.
The Basics
One of the best ways to see the museum, especially for those with limited time, is on a guided day trip from Barcelona, which usually allows for one to two hours of museum exploration. Day trips can also include visits to nearby Girona or two other Dalí attractions—Gala–Dalí Castle (Pubol Castle) and the Salvador Dalí House–Museum at Portlligat—along Spain's Costa Brava.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dalí Museum is a must-see for art lovers.
- Tours from Barcelona to the museum and surrounding area can last upwards of 11 hours.
- Bring some one euro coins to activate several interactive exhibits within the museum.
- The museum's central courtyard, stage, ground floor, and under-stage area (the site of Dalí's crypt) are all accessible by wheelchair.
How to Get to the Dalí Museum
Figueres is located 87 miles (140 km) northeast of Barcelona. A guided day trip with roundtrip transport is the easiest and most convenient way to visit the museum from the city, but travelers can also visit independently by taking a 55-minute high-speed train ride from Barcelona Sants station to Figueres Vilafant. From the train station, it's a 15-minute walk (or short taxi ride) to the museum. The nearest commercial airport is in Girona, 27 miles (43 km) to the south.
When to Get There
Although opening and closing hours vary slightly, the museum is generally open from about 10am to 6pm daily. Due to its popularity as a day trip destination from Barcelona, the museum can get crowded during peak tourist season in July and August. It quiets down from October to April, and the cooler temperatures make exploring Figueres more pleasant as well. To avoid crowds, plan to visit first thing in the morning or in late afternoon, a couple of hours before the museum closes.
The Dalí Jewels
The Dalí-Joies exhibit, included in the price of admission, occupies two floors of the museum annex. Inside are 39 pieces of jewelry made from gold and precious stones, as well as concept drawings made by Dalí between 1941 and 1970. It’s well worth setting aside an extra 30 to 40 minutes to tour this secondary collection.
Address: Gala-Salvador Dalí Square, 5, Figueres, Costa Brava, Spain
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 80
Culloden Battlefield
The Culloden Battlefield was the site of one of the last battles to take place on British soil. On April 16, 1746, Bonnie Prince Charlie and his army of 5,000 Jacobite Highlanders faced off against the Duke of Cumberland and 9,000 Hanoverian government troops. Though the Jacobites fought valiantly, they were ultimately defeated, resulting in the elimination of the Scottish clan system and the suppression of Highland culture. Today, the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre retells the events of that fateful day through interactive exhibits that put travelers in the thick of the action.
The Basics
The Culloden Battlefield is a must-see site for any history buff hoping to untangle the story of the British Isles. Visitors can purchase entrance tickets to find themselves on the frontlines of one of the most important battles in British history and explore the popular site at their own pace. The battlefield is also often a stop on guided day tours from Inverness and Invergordon, most of which include round-trip transportation and visits to other famous attractions, such as Loch Ness. Entry to Culloden is included in National Trust for Scotland Discover Tickets, 3- or 7-day sightseeing passes that grant visitors entry to a number of Scottish sights, including Culzean Castle, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, and the Preston Mill. Many travelers combine a visit here with a trip to the nearby Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age site located just 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) away.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To ensure entry, it’s best to book tickets in advance.
- The center and the battlefield are both wheelchair accessible.
- Audio guides are available, so visitors can take a self-guided tour of the outdoor battle site.
- It’s best to wear warm clothing to walk around the windswept moor where the battle took place.
How to Get There
Culloden is about five miles (eight kilometers) east of Inverness. Buses travel from Inverness’ city center to the site, though schedules change seasonally. If traveling without a car, the easiest way to get there is via organized day trip tour from Inverness, most of which include pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
The battlefield is open daily, and most visitors go during summer, when mild weather makes for pleasant strolling around the open-air battlefield site. The visitor center is open daily from 10am to 4pm from January 3 to March 31; from 9am to 5:30pm in April, May, September, and October; from 9am to 6pm in June and July; from 9am to 7pm in August; and from 10am to 4pm from November 1 to December 23, with varying seasonal hours in late December. It’s best to visit in early morning to get in before the crowds.
Things to See at the Culloden Battlefield
Visitors can amble around the battlefield in Culloden Moor, where headstones memorialize fallen soldiers and the Memorial Cairn pays homage to those who died for the Jacobite cause. The battlefield is also the setting for Leanach Cottage, a thatched residence that’s one of the few remaining examples of a common building type in the area during the early 18th century.
Address: Culloden Moor, Inverness, Culloden IV2 5EU, Scotland
Hours: Battlefield open daily, visitor center hours vary
Admission: Adult GBP 11, Family GBP 26, Single Adult Family GBP 22
From $ 14
Cybele's Fountain (Fuente de la Cibeles)
Madrid’s most memorable statue is Cybele’s Fountain, or Fuente de la Cibeles, depicting the Greek goddess of fertility, Cybele, being pulled by two lions on a chariot. Designed by architect Ventura Rodriguez for King Carlos III in 1782, the white marble monument stands encircled by water in the center of the historic Plaza de Cibeles.
Once providing water to local residents, the fountain is now merely decorative, doubling up as a popular meeting point for locals. Real Madrid’s football fans, in particular, have adopted the spot for post-game celebrations. Its job as a water source might be redundant but Cybele’s Fountain is still one of the most prominent symbols of Madrid and if you look closely, you’ll see the 8-meter-tall goddess not only holds a scepter but also a set of keys – said to be the keys to the city. Perhaps most aesthetically pleasing is the fountain’s striking surroundings – a backdrop that includes the 18th century Palacio de Buenavista, the 19th century Palacio de Linares, the grand Bank of Spain and the exquisite Palacio de Comunicaciones (the City Hall).
Once providing water to local residents, the fountain is now merely decorative, doubling up as a popular meeting point for locals. Real Madrid’s football fans, in particular, have adopted the spot for post-game celebrations. Its job as a water source might be redundant but Cybele’s Fountain is still one of the most prominent symbols of Madrid and if you look closely, you’ll see the 8-meter-tall goddess not only holds a scepter but also a set of keys – said to be the keys to the city. Perhaps most aesthetically pleasing is the fountain’s striking surroundings – a backdrop that includes the 18th century Palacio de Buenavista, the 19th century Palacio de Linares, the grand Bank of Spain and the exquisite Palacio de Comunicaciones (the City Hall).
Address: Plaza Cibeles, 28014 Madrid, Spain
From $ 16
D'Alt Vila (Old Ibiza Town)
Sitting pretty on a hilltop in Ibiza Town (Eivissa), the fortified Dalt Vila (Upper Town) has been occupied since Phoenician times. Behind its chunky defensive walls and 16th-century bastions lies a maze of cobbled streets that slope up to the cathedral at the summit, where views of the glistening coast await.
The Basics
The tranquil, history-filled streets of Dalt Vila showcase a quieter side of Ibiza—one at odds with its party-hard reputation. Because of its narrow lanes, Dalt Vila is best explored on foot, with many walking tours of Ibiza Town passing through here. Visitors can also join guided scooter tours and zoom by top attractions such as the Ibiza Cathedral, Museu Puget, and Convento de San Cristobal, or rent a scooter and zip around Dalt Vila independently with the aid of a map.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dalt Vila is a must for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
- The cobbles can prove challenging for flip-flops, so be sure to wear sturdier shoes.
- Dalt Vila is not wheelchair-friendly, with most routes featuring cobbles, uneven surfaces, or steps.
How to Get There
The main entrance to Dalt Vila is the Portal de Ses Taules, which is accessible via a ramp leading from Ibiza Town’s Mercado Viejo (Old Market). Ibiza Bus runs multiple routes connecting Ibiza Town to other major island destinations, including Sant Antoni de Portmany, Santa Eulària, and Sant Jordi.
When to Get There
Dalt Vila—like the rest of Ibiza—attracts more crowds during the summer months, from June through September. One of the best times to visit is during the second weekend in May, when the family-friendly Medieval Festival takes place in Dalt Vila, with medieval-inspired market stalls and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Historical Highlights of Ibiza Town
Visitors with an interest in Ibiza Town’s lengthy history may want to visit the Necròpolis del Puig des Molins, an ancient burial site with more than 3,000 tombs, some of which date back as far as the 7th century BC. The sturdy walls that encircle the Dalt Vila, meanwhile, are a good spot for an evening stroll. Circumnavigating the entire 1-mile-long (2-kilometer-long) ramparts on foot usually takes around an hour, and is best done at night, when they are impressively lit.
Address: Ibiza Old Town, Spain
From $ 36
Czech Museum of Music
Run under the auspices of Prague’s National Museum, which has five branches, the Czech Museum of Music is located in the former church of St Mary Magdalene in Malá Strana (the Lesser Quarter) on the west bank of the River Vltava. This 17th-century Baroque beauty was designed by Italian architect Francesco Caratti and over the years it has served as a Dominican monastery, police barracks and a history archive before its interior was remodeled into a light-filled, high-ceilinged atrium to accommodate the museum’s vast collections of precious musical instruments and scores. An entertaining permanent exhibition entitled ‘Man–Instrument–Music’ features the relationship between man and his musical instruments, set to the backdrop of music recorded on those displayed; among the highlights is a piano once played by Mozart and a series of ornate harps inlaid with mother of pearl. A schedule of temporary exhibitions might produce a mixed bag of art and music, or the occasional display of rare scores from the museum’s repository of 700,000 musical artifacts.
Classical concerts performing the work of Czech composers such as Dvořák and Smetana are frequently held in the atrium, which is beautifully illuminated in a rainbow of colors at night.
Practical Info
Karmelitská 2/4. Open Mon, Wed–Sun 10am–6pm. Admission adults 120 CZK; seniors & students 80 CZK; family tickets 200 CZK. Take subway A to Malostranská or trams 12, 20, 22 or 23 to Hellichova.
Address: Karmelitská 2/4, Prague 1, Central Bohemian Region 118 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Mon, Wed–Sun 10am–6pm
Admission: Adults: 120 CZK; Seniors & students: 80 CZK; Family tickets 200 CZK
From $ 35
Curtea de Arges Monastery
Founded in the early 16th century, the Curtea de Arges Monastery is one of the most important pilgrimage and prayer sites in Romania. A Romanian Orthodox cathedral sits on the grounds of the monastery that also dates to the 16th century. Built with pale gray limestone in a Byzantine style, it features Moorish arabesques and an interior covered with murals by French painters Nicolle and Renouard and Romanian painter Constantinescu. The monastery is also home to numerous relics and a gospel written in gold by Queen Elizabeth of Romania, as well as the graves of Kings Ferdinand and Carol I and Queens Elizabeth and Maria.
The monastery is tied to several local legends, including the legend of Master Manole, who is said to have sacrificed his wife and his own life to complete the building of the monastery. Another legend relates to the holy relics of Saint Filofteea, a 12-year-old girl who was killed by her father after giving food to beggars.
Practical Info
The Curtea de Arges Monastery is in the city of Curtea de Arges, about two hours from Bucharest by car or bus. Coming from Brasov, buses stop in Pitesti, making the journey nearly four hours, while coming by car is just two hours. The city is also accessible by train from Craiova (four hours, via Pitesti) and the monastery is about a 30-minute walk from the train station.
Address: Str. Basarabilor nr. 1 (Basarab Street), Curtea de Arges, Romania
Hours: Summer, daily from 8 am to 8 p.m.; Winter, daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: about 50 Euro cents
From $ 58
Da Vinci's Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)
Each day, Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)" draws hundreds of art-loving visitors to the unassuming refectory of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie for just 15 minutes with the painting (Yes, it's that good). Milan's famous 15th-century wall mural may be one of the most famous (and regulated) artworks in Italy—to see it, you must book entrance tickets in advance or sign up for a guided Milan city tour.
The Basics
"The Last Supper" is incredibly popular, and it can be very difficult to get access. In order to preserve the mural, a maximum of 25 to 30 visitors are allowed to view the painting at a time, and only for 15 minutes. Fortunately, tours can help you lock in those high-demand tickets and customize your experience—spend a day touring Milan's must-see sites with an art historian tour guide, or opt for an expedited tour with skip-the-line "Last Supper" access. Most tours that visit the iconic painting also stop at Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), Milan's Cathedral (Duomo), and the UNESCO-listed Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, thought to be designed by Renaissance architect Bramante. Other popular stops include the 16th-century Church of San Maurizio, the renowned Teatro La Scala opera house, and the glamorous shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Things to Know Before You Go
How To Get There
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is located on the western outskirts of central Milan between metro stations Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione. It's a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the Duomo, but you can also choose a tour that provides round-trip transportation from your Milan hotel.
- Skip the line with a priority access ticket that allows you to head right into the showroom.
- While walking tours are the most popular way to see "The Last Supper," you can also explore the city by rickshaw, bicycle, or vintage tram.
- From the church, Sforza Castle is a 15-minute walk down Corso Magenta, and Teatro alla Scala is about a 20-minute walk east on the same road.
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is located on the western outskirts of central Milan between metro stations Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione. It's a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the Duomo, but you can also choose a tour that provides round-trip transportation from your Milan hotel.
When to Get There
There are always visitors waiting their turn to see this hard-to-visit Renaissance masterpiece. Plan ahead to secure your ticket, and consider booking skip-the-line entry to walk in ahead of the queues.
Address: Piazza della Maria delle Grazie 2, Milan, Lombardy, Italy
Hours: Tues-Sun 8:15am-7pm. Closed Mondays, plus Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25
Admission: €10
From $ 25
Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles)
Madrid’s splendor is on full display at the grand Plaza de la Cibeles, a roundabout surrounded by notable buildings, including the stunning Cybele Palace (Palacio de Cibeles). Formerly the communications palace, the colossal structure was designed by Antonio Palacios and Joaquín Otamendi and opened in 1909.
Today it houses the city council offices, as well as the CentroCentro cultural center, which comprises a tourist information center, exhibition hall and a terrace with views overlooking the city. The exhibition space often hosts art shows, workshops, conferences and the occasional concert. The center also houses a cafeteria-style restaurant and a sit-down restaurant.
Practical Info
The CentroCentro cultural center inside Cybele Palace offers free entry on the first Wednesday of every month.
Address: Palacio de Cibeles, Madrid, Spain
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am-8pm
Admission: €2
From $ 14
Dallas Dhu Distillery
Sitting beside the clear waters of the Manachy Burn at the heart of Speyside whisky region, Dallas Dhu Distillery (the name means ‘Black Water Valley’ in Gaelic) produced a flavorsome single malt known as Roderick Dhu from 1898 until 1983. As one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, it was then closed down and today it is run as a museum showcasing early whisky production.
As much of the whitewashed distillery was rebuilt after a fire in the 1950s, the equipment on show dates from that time. Tours are by handheld audio guides that take visitors through the process of whisky making, including the barns in which the barley was stored, the still house where the uisge beatha (water of life) was distilled and the bonded warehouse where the finished product was aged for three years.
There’s a visitor center in which to sample a dram or two as you watch documentaries on the art of whisky making; true aficionados will relish the choice of malts in the museum store. Dallas Dhu can be visited along with the 50 distilleries and cooperages found in the Speyside countryside.
Practical Info
The distillery is open April–September daily from 9:30am–5:30pm, October–March Sat–Wed 10am–4pm. Admission for adults is £5.50; while seniors & students are £4.40; children aged 5–15 are £3.30 and they must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free with the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass. Dallas Dhu Distillery is just south of Forres off the A96 in Speyside; Inverness is 56 miles (90 km) by road and the journey takes about 90 minutes. The area is well served by buses.
Address: Mannachie Road, Forres, Morayshire IV36 2RR, Scotland
Hours: Apr–Sept daily 9:30am–5:30pm; Oct–Mar Sat–Wed 10am–4pm
Admission: Adults £5.50; seniors & students £4.40; children aged 5–15 £3.30
From $ 40
Cutty Sark
Now permanently docked in Greenwich, London, this 19th-century tea clipper—one of the fastest vessels of its era—once sailed the seas between Britain and China. Onboard exhibitions and costumed characters document what life was like for the crew as they steered the ship to ports all around the world.
The Basics
Visitors can prepurchase an admission ticket and make their own way to the Cutty Sark, before climbing aboard to explore. Costumed characters from Cutty Sark’s past perform several times a day on the main deck.
Many half-day and full-day tours of Greenwich include a visit to the Cutty Sark, as well as other Royal Museums Greenwich venues, such as the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the Greenwich Royal Observatory. Passengers on boat cruises along the River Thames may catch a glimpse of the Cutty Sark’s masts from the water.
Things to Know Before you Go
- The Cutty Sark is a must for history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, and families.
- A café can be found on the vessel’s lower ground deck.
- Cutty Sark is wheelchair friendly with step-free access available via King William Walk and Greenwich Pier, and lifts providing access to all levels. Some parts of the main deck are not accessible.
How to Get There
Cutty Sark is permanently stationed at Greenwich Pier in South East London. To get here, ride the MBNA Thames Clipper from London Eye Pier (35 minutes), London Bridge City Pier (25 minutes), or Tower Pier (20 minutes). Trains from Central London to Greenwich take less than 10 minutes, while the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) from Central London to Cutty Sark DLR station takes just 20 minutes.
When to Get There
Peak hours typically fall between 1pm and 3pm on weekends, with July and August drawing the biggest crowds. The best time to visit is in June, when summer weather means you can still fully enjoy all the outdoor attractions of Greenwich, such as Greenwich Park and the waterfront, but without the huge crowds.
On Board the Cutty Sark
During its prime, the Cutty Sark was one of the fastest Victorian sea clippers to sail the seas. The ship would typically set sail from Britain and journey to China, returning with stores of tea. Visitors who step aboard the restored vessel today can take hold of the wheel on its main deck, gaze up at the copper hull, and see the cramped quarters where the captain and crew slept. You can also see interactive maps tracking shipping routes and illustrations.
Address: London, England
From $ 16
Culzean Castle
Set atop the Ayrshire cliffs, this sprawling neoclassical mansion is one of Scotland’s most famous stately homes—it even appears on the back of the Scottish 5-pound note. Designed by 18th-century architect Robert Adam, Culzean (pronounced Cullane) boasts palatial interiors and grounds that encompass woods, follies, and even beaches.
The Basics
Now run by the National Trust for Scotland, Culzean Castle and Country Park was the former seat of Clan Kennedy. is. Book a ticket to access the castle and the park in advance or pay for admission to the park only. Guided tours along the Ayrshire Coast from Glasgow also include the castle and surrounding park. Once inside, explore independently or take part in one of the twice-daily guided tours (April–October only). Visitors with a keen interest in Scottish history and heritage may opt for a National Trust for Scotland Discover Ticket, which grants access to 90 National Trust for Scotland attractions, including Culzean Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
It’s also possible for visitors to stay overnight in holiday cottages in the park, at the camping and caravan site, or in the top floor of the castle.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Culzean Castle is a must-see for architecture fans, history buffs, and walking enthusiasts.
- Restaurants and cafés are located on-site.
- The castle is wheelchair accessible as are some parts of Culzean Country Park.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring rainproof gear so you can explore the park no matter what the weather.
How to Get There
Culzean Castle is 12 miles (19 kilometers) south of Ayr. Girvan-bound Stagecoach buses (line 60) departs from Ayr and stops at the castle gates, with the journey taking just more than 30 minutes.
When to Get There
The castle opens from April through October, with guided tours taking place twice daily. Arrive early in the day to ensure your spot on a tour. The park is open year-round, but facilities are limited between November and March.
Highlights of the Castle
Among the highlights of the castle’s interior is the grand oval staircase and the opulent round drawing room. The 642-acre (260-hectare) estate also encompasses many delights, including several miles of coastline dotted with beaches, dunes, and caves, as well as walled gardens, an ice house, fruit-planted glasshouses, and a deer park.
Address: Maybole KA19 8LE, Glasgow, Scotland
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
The Dachau Concentration Camp was the first of its kind opened in Germany by Adolf Hitler's Nazi government in 1933, and it served as a model for later concentration camps. Today, the camp is a memorial to the more than 32,000 people who died and the more than 200,000 who were imprisoned during the Nazi regime. The memorial was established as a site of memory and education in 1965, 20 years after Dachau was liberated by American troops.
The Basics
The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is most often visited on half- or full-day trips from Munich. Visitors to the memorial site can expect to see the former compound (now an exhibition center), and learn about Europe in World War II, the Holocaust, and the role Dachau played in this important chapter in German history. Whether seen independently or on a guided private or small-group tour from Munich, the guard houses and administration buildings, reconstructed barracks, cells, and crematorium offer ample opportunity for reflection.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visiting the Dachau memorial is an intense experience, and appropriate solemnity and respect are required on the grounds.
- While it is free to visit the memorial, booking an audio guide or a group or private tour allows for added insight and context from a tour guide.
- The site does not offer luggage storage.
- Dachau is generally wheelchair accessible, although some of the grounds are unpaved and some buildings do not have dedicated wheelchair entrances. Wheelchairs can be borrowed upon arrival.
- Some of the exhibits may not be appropriate for kids under 12; it's recommended that kids visit with an adult.
How to Get There
Dachau is set just 17 miles (28 kilometers) northwest of Munich. By public transportation, take the S2 train from Munich's Central Station for about 25 minutes to Dachau. Get off at Dachau station (Dachau Bahnhof) to hop on bus 726 toward Saubachsiedlung and get off at KZ-Gedenkstätte, the entrance of the memorial site. Parking fees apply from March to October.
When to Get There
The camp is open daily from 9am to 5pm year-round, aside from Christmas Eve. While some exhibits are indoors, many consider the summer months of May to October the best time to visit as much of the site is outdoors. The memorial tends to be busiest around noon.
Exhibitions at the Dachau Memorial Site
Set in what was once a maintenance building, Dachau's main permanent exhibition covers the former Nazi concentration camp's horrific history and sheds light on the lives of the site's prisoners with firsthand accounts, biographies, and artifacts. Elsewhere on the Dachau grounds are exhibits in other original buildings displaying bunkers, model barracks, a crematorium, and a gas chamber, although evidence indicates that the gas chamber was never used to murder prisoners.
Address: Dachau, Germany
Admission: Free. Tours cost € 3 - € 3.50
From $ 25
Dalkey Castle
One of seven fortified houses built by merchants in the Middle Ages when Dalkey served as Dublin’s main port, this 14th-century castle is the only one to survive fully intact. It now serves as a tourist attraction, with a heritage center, historical exhibits, costumed actors, and a gallery showcasing Dalkey’s literary connections.
The Basics
Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre can be visited as part of a 40-minute guided tour led by costumed actors. Tours run every 30 minutes, and provide access to the castle, the early Christian church of St. Begnet’s, and the Writers’ Gallery, which features works from artists including Samuel Beckett and Bono.
The castle is a common stop-off on organized day tours from Dublin city center. These tours typically include other nearby sights, such as Killiney Hill, which offers spectacular views of Dublin Bay, and Johnnie Fox’s, a traditional pub in the Dublin Mountains. Entrance to Dalkey Castle is also included with some Dublin sightseeing passes. Dalkey Castle also offers seasonal tours themed around Christmas and Halloween, as well as guided walks around Dalkey town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dalkey Castle is a must for history buffs and families.
- There is no café on-site, but plenty can be found nearby within the town itself.
- The castle is partially wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre is situated in Dalkey, a seaside suburb of Dublin. To get here from the city center, take the southbound Dart train from Connolly, Pearse, or Tara stations. The journey will take about 30 minutes. The castle is just 5 minutes from Dalkey station on foot.
When to Get There
Dalkey Castle is open year-round. The castle is quietest midweek. The best time to visit is during summer, as warm, dry weather means visitors can take advantage of the beautiful coastal walks nearby.
Dalkey’s Literary and Musical Connections
The Writers’ Gallery at Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre celebrates the town’s literary and artistic connections. Samuel Beckett was born here in Dalkey, James Joyce lived in neighboring Sandycove, while scores of other well-known Irish writers, such as Maeve Binchy, George Bernard Shaw, and Joseph O’Connor, have lived in the Dalkey area. Ireland’s musicians are also well-represented among Dalkey’s local population, with Bono of U2 fame and Enya both choosing to call Dalkey home.
Address: Castle St, Dalkey, Co. Dublin. Ireland, Ireland
Admission: Varies
From $ 40
Culture and Congress Centre
The Culture and Congress Center, often simply referred to as KKL by the locals, is the work of the French architect Jean Nouvel. It has an extraordinary presence among the more traditional buildings of Lucerne, especially due to the modern square shape and the enormous flat roof overhanging Europe Square. This floating roof, sometimes called the magic roof, soon became a symbol of the city and is definitely the building’s most prominent feature. Also remarkable is the successful fusion of nature and construction. The Culture and Congress Center almost merges with the adjoining water of Lake Lucerne and not only do the aluminum plates covering the surface reflect the light and ripples in the waves but the water also flows into the building itself and separates the KKL into its three parts. One part of the structure houses smaller halls and meeting rooms, offices as well as a bistro and an art museum, while the versatile middle part called the Lucerne Hall is the venue for bigger events, shows and conventions.
The Culture and Congress Center’s main feature and the third part of the building is the huge concert hall. It has a lining made of maple wood, reminiscent of a violin case, but is popularly referred to as “Salle Blanche” due to the isolating side walls made out of gleaming white plaster reliefs. The blue ceiling is reminiscent of the starry night sky and the five floors beneath it, capable of holding 1,840 spectators, are furnished with plenty of pine, cherry and maple wood. The concert hall was mainly built for classical concerts and thus, meets the highest acoustic demands, allowing for absolute silence in which sounds from the quietest pianissimo to the loudest fortissimo can develop. But among all the culture and music, don't forget to climb to the roof-top terrace for an incredible view over the city and Lake Lucerne.
Practical Info
The Culture and Congress Center is located right next to Lucerne’s main train station, where every bus and train in the city makes a stop. The building is massive and simply can’t be overlooked. All the separate parts of the venue have different opening times and there are regular exhibitions and concerts taking place. Therefore, it’s probably best to pay a visit to their website to find out about the part you are interested in or join a tour that shows it all.
Address: Europaplatz 1, Lucerne, Switzerland
From $ 23