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Fairy Chimneys
The “fairy chimneys” of Cappadocia make up the surreal landscape of unique rock formations and valleys of this area of Turkey. They were formed centuries ago of ash, lava, and basalt from the activity of three volcanoes here. What is left behind today is dozens of these fairytale-like, otherworldly formations that look straight out of a fantasy or science-fiction film (in fact, parts of Star Wars were filmed here.)
As the rock formation base is often soft, throughout history those who have inhabited the area have carved their homes and dwellings out of the fairy chimney rock. As a result, Cappadocia is filled with fascinating Byzantine churches, historic homes, even entire underground cities to explore. The tops or caps of the chimney-like pinnacles are harder, which has protected the structures throughout many years. The Open Air Museum of Goreme is a spectacular place to view the many uses of the formations throughout history, as early as the 4th century.
Practical Info
The fairy chimneys of Cappadocia can be found in four major towns of the area: Nevsehir, Kayseri, Aksaray and Nigde. Flights and overnight buses to Kayseri run daily.
Address: Turkey
From $ 41
Eyup Sultan Mosque
Istanbul’s Eyup Sultan Mosque (Eyup Sultan Camii) was built in 1458, only five years after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, and rebuilt in the 18th and 19th centuries. Located on the Golden Horn outside the historical Walls of Constantinople, it was the site of coronations for Ottoman princes throughout the empire’s early era.
The Basics
The Eyup Sultan Mosque is named after the standard-bearer for the prophet Mohammed, and the presence of his tomb in the mosque complex makes this a significant and popular place to visit. It’s common to see young boys dressed as Ottoman princes visiting the mosque for the ceremonies accompanying their circumcision.
Many private and small-group city tours that visit Eyup Sultan Mosque also explore other attractions in the area around the Golden Horn, including the Chora Church (Kariye Museum), Miniaturk, the Walls of Constantinople, Pierre Loti Hill, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Eyup Sultan Mosque is a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.
- Bring a scarf or wrap to cover up appropriately before entering, and wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
- The mosque is an active place of worship and is closed to visitors during prayer times.
How to Get There
Eyup Sultan Mosque is located in Istanbul’s bustling Eyup neighborhood and is easily reached by local buses and taxis. Ferries depart during the day from Karakoy, Eminonu, and Uskudar, and travel up the Golden Horn to Eyup.
When to Get There
Eyup Sultan Mosque is a popular place to visit, especially in the afternoon and on weekends. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds. The mosque is closed to non-Muslims during prayer times, which change daily and are longer on Fridays; check times online. Muslim and Turkish holidays can affect opening hours as well.
Eyup Highlights
When in the Eyup neighborhood, make sure to visit Eyup Sultan’s tomb, which is covered in Iznik tiles (and closed on Mondays). Wander past the extensive Muslim cemetery near the mosque and make your way up to Pierre Loti Hill. At the top, reachable by funicular, is a café that has beautiful views over the Golden Horn.
Address: Turkey
From $ 31
European Union Parliament
Brussels is the administrative heart of the European Union and the Espace Léopold buildings are where parliament meets throughout the year to debate and discuss the future of Europe. The main building of the European Union Parliament complex is the Paul-Henri Spaak building, an impressive glass structure with a distinctive arched roof, it’s been nicknamed "Caprice des Dieux" (whim of the gods) after a similarly shaped French cheese.
The hemicycle is where parliament debates; it seats the 736 Members of the parliament, numerous translators and a gallery for the general public. The semicircular shape is designed to encourage consensus among the political parties.
There are a number of interesting works of art on public view including May Claerhout’s sculpture Europa, which has become a favorite among tourists.
Practical Info
Work is continuing on a state-of-the-art visitors center, but in the meantime guided multimedia tours are available on weekdays. When parliament is sitting the public are allowed to sit and watch proceedings from the public area.
The closest bus stop is Luxembourg Square and any bus that stops there will drop you at the entrance between the Willy Brandt and József Antall buildings - walk between these buildings to reach the Paul-Henri Spaak building.
Address: Rue Wiertz, Brussels, Belgium
Hours: Tours available Mon - Thurs at 10am and 3pm only (10am only on Fridays)
Admission: Free
From $ 29
Fairfax House
Regarded as one of England’s most impressive Georgian town houses, Fairfax House dates back to 1762 and takes its name from Charles Gregory, the 9th Viscount Fairfax of Emley, who acquired the property in 1759. After a short-lived incarnation as a gentlemen’s club and cinema, Fairfax House was bought and renovated by the York Civic Trust, reopening in 1984 as a house museum, showcasing a fine collection of period furnishings and antiques.
Today, the museum displays the Noel Terry Collection of Georgian furniture, but it’s the painstakingly restored interiors that earn the most acclaim. Designed by Yorkshire architect John Carr, the house is a masterpiece of Georgian style, adorned with elaborate wrought ironwork, intricate woodcarvings and striking stucco ceilings. Highlights include the exquisite Great Staircase, the grand Venetian Window, furnishings including one of the houses’ original four-poster beds and a selection of 18th Century paintings.
Today, the museum displays the Noel Terry Collection of Georgian furniture, but it’s the painstakingly restored interiors that earn the most acclaim. Designed by Yorkshire architect John Carr, the house is a masterpiece of Georgian style, adorned with elaborate wrought ironwork, intricate woodcarvings and striking stucco ceilings. Highlights include the exquisite Great Staircase, the grand Venetian Window, furnishings including one of the houses’ original four-poster beds and a selection of 18th Century paintings.
Address: Castlegate, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9RN, England
Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12:30pm-4pm. Mondays guided tours 11am-2pm
Admission: Adult: £6; Senior/Student: £5
From $ 25
Faito Mountain (Monte Faito)
Towering over the countryside of Campania in southern Italy, Faito Mountain (Monte Faito)—in the Lattari mountain range—overlooks the whole of the Sorrento Peninsula. Faito is a popular destination in summer, when its scenic trails offer a respite from the heat and crowds along the coastline.
The Basics
Faito Mountain, named for the beech trees that blanket its slopes, offers some of the best hiking trails in the area. From its highest point, you can set off along a number of routes that lead past churches and ancient cisterns, and through spectacular beech and black pine forests, where it’s often possible to spot birds, butterflies, and small mammals in the wild. A road and cable car run up 3,711 feet (1,131 meters) to one of the highest peaks on the Sorrentine Peninsula, where the views of the Amalfi Coast—from the Gulf of Salerno to the Bay of Naples—are stellar; most hiking trails set off from near the cable car station here. Faito’s trails are of varying length and difficulty, so the best way to explore is on a private walking or hiking tour led by a professional nature guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If hiking Faito’s trails, be sure to wear appropriate shoes, a hat, and sunblock, and carry ample water.
- You’ll want to capture the sweeping views, so don’t forget your camera.
- There are a few restaurants and cafés on the peak of Faito Mountain, as well as a playground and swimming pool.
- Outdoor activities are often a welcome break from days of sightseeing for kids, so consider a guided hike with a family-friendly guide.
- The cable car is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Faito Mountain is by taking the cable car from the Circumvesuviana train station in Castellammare di Stabia. You can also take the bus from the Circumvesuviana train station in Vico Equense, or drive to the top. To reach the Circumvesuviana line from Positano, Ravello, or Amalfi, take the bus to Sorrento and board the train there.
When to Get There
The cable car runs only in summer, when the lion’s share of hikers hit the trails on Faito Mountain. If hiking in summer, plan to set off early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day; or opt to visit in spring or fall when the temperatures are milder.
Faito and Pompeii in a Day
The archaeological ruins of Pompeii at the base of Mount Vesuvius are also located along the Circumvesuviana rail line between Sorrento and Naples, so easy to reach before or after your cable car excursion to the top of Faito.
Address: Sorrento, Italy
From $ 232
Falkland Palace
Once the favored countryside retreat of the Stuart kings and queens, the magnificent Falkland Palace has seen a long list of famous royals pass through its grand gateway. First built as a hunting lodge in the 12th century, the residence was transformed into a French Renaissance-style palace in the 16th century by King James IV and King James V, complete with 3 hectares of parks, orchards and flower gardens.
Now a National Trust property, Falkland Palace is a popular tourist attraction and an easy day trip from Edinburgh, offering visitors a fascinating insight into the lavish lives of the Scottish royals. As well as exploring the beautifully restored Royal Apartments and drawing room, visitors can take a peek at the Royal Chapel, admire the fine artworks on display in the Tapestry Gallery and Edwardian Library, visit the Gatehouse and walk around the vast grounds. Don’t forget to visit the Royal Tennis Court, allegedly frequented by Mary, Queen of Scots and now Britain’s oldest tennis court still in use.
Practical Info
Falkland Palace is located in Fife, approximately 40 km north of Edinburgh and is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Adult admission costs £12.50.
Address: East Port, Falkland, Cupar, Fife, United Kingdom KY15 7DA, Scotland
Hours: Daily 11am-5pm
Admission: Adult £12.50
From $ 48
Eze
With its twisting cobblestone lanes, jumble of medieval houses, and shady courtyards lined with traditional cafés, Eze is a tranquil village high above the glamorous resorts and golden beaches of the Cote d’Azur. The hilltop town is undeniably picturesque, affording panoramic views over the Mediterranean, and its timeless charm has made it a firm favorite on French Riviera itineraries.
The Basics
Eze’s tiny size means it’s often relegated to a pit stop for those heading east to Monaco or west to Cannes and St.-Tropez, but the medieval village can also make a quieter base to explore the glitzy resorts along the coast. A full- or half-day tour from Nice, Cannes, or Monte Carlo often includes nearby villages such as St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Menton, or La Turbie.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring comfortable shoes to navigate the steep lanes and cobblestones of the Old Town.
- Eze’s medieval streets can sometimes be a challenge for wheelchair users, so it’s best to check ahead for wheelchair access to hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
How to Get to Eze
Eze is located at the eastern tip of the French Riviera and close to the France-Monaco border. Its closest airport is in Nice, just 7 miles (11 kilometers) away, roughly 30 minutes by car, with most tours driving along the famous Corniche coastal road.
When to Get There
Celebrities, jet setters, and sun-seekers flock to the French Riviera in spring and summer, and Eze sees a steady stream of tour groups passing through. To avoid the crowds, get there early or stick around after the tour buses have left. Those wanting to soak up the atmosphere of popular events like the Cannes Film Festival or the Monaco Grand Prix will find Eze a good place to escape the masses, although be aware that accommodation, flight, and tour prices can soar during these busy months. Out of season, Eze is equally charming, but check ahead to ensure that hotels and attractions are open.
A Sightseeing Tour of Eze
Eze’s principal attraction is its attractive Old Town, centered around the majestic ruins of a 12th-century castle, and it’s easy to explore on foot. After admiring the medieval architecture, stroll around the Jardin Exotique and admire the exotic blooms of the stunning gardens, hike down to the beaches of Eze-Sur-Mer, or take a tour of the famous Fragonard perfume factory.
Address: Eze 06360, France
Admission: Free
From $ 115
Falkland
Flanked by the Lomond Hills in central Fife, the former royal burgh of Falkland is known for its twisting streets and centuries-old stoned houses. Dominating the town center is the famous Falkland Palace. Once the hunting lodge of the Stuart Monarchs, the palace was a favorite summer resort of Mary Queen of Scots.
Built by French masons on behalf of King James V, on a visit you’ll get to see its famous buttresses and turrets, and in the gardens lies Britain’s oldest royal tennis court, built in 1539.
The village is also known for its old horse market, Falkland Cricket Club, and famous golf club. Fans of the TV series Outlander may also recognize Falkland’s streets as the setting for the show’s opening scenes filmed in World War II.
Practical Info
You can take the bus to Falkland from St Andrews (30 minutes) or Cupar (15 minutes), which connects to Edinburgh and Glasgow via train. Falkland Palace on Main Street is open between March and October, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm. On Sunday, it is open from 1-5pm. Entry costs £12.
Address: Falkland, Fife, United Kingdom, Scotland
Hours: Falkland Palace on Main Street is open between March and October, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm. On Sunday, it is open from 1-5pm.
Admission: £12
From $ 16
Famara Beach (Playa de Famara)
A 1.8-mile-long stretch of golden sand fringed by soaring sea cliffs, the picturesque setting of Famara Beach (Playa de Famara) has earned it a legion of fans, among them renowned local artist César Manrique and Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar. The dramatic surroundings make the beach extremely popular among locals, and there are ample opportunities for exploring, like walking in the sand dunes, hiking across the cliff tops of El Risco (Lanzarote’s highest peak) or tucking into fresh seafood in the traditional fishing village of Caleta de Famara.
Benefiting from consistent winds and world-class reef breaks, the beach is also a hot spot for water sports, with popular activities including surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding, as well as hang-gliding from the coastal cliffs.
Practical Info
Famara Beach is located on Lanzarote’s northwest coast and is easily reached by car via the LZ-401 and LZ-402 roads. Famara is a family beach, but it is also known for its strong currents and riptides, so take care when swimming.
Address: Famara Beach, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
Hours: Daily
From $ 52
Famine Sculpture
Comprising a procession of skeletal life-size bronze figures, this haunting memorial remembers the victims of the Great Irish Famine of 1845–1849. Over a million people died and more than a million more were forced to flee the country as a result of starvation and disease brought on by the failure of the potato crop.
The Basics
Set along the banks of the River Liffey, this evocative memorial by Dublin sculptor Rowan Gillespie is often encountered by sightseers making their way to other attractions in the area, such as the Custom House. The memorial is an especially fitting complement to the nearby EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, which reveals the stories and experiences of Irish emigrants, and the Jeanie Johnston tall ship, which documents the experiences of the poverty-stricken and starving emigrants who crossed the Atlantic on the vessel during the famine.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Famine Memorial is a moving site for those who claim Irish ancestry, as well as a must for history buffs and art lovers.
- The statues are easily accessible for wheelchair users, with a smooth, level walkway running beside the River Liffey.
- Lots of bars, restaurants, and cafés can be found in the surrounding Docklands area.
How to Get There
The Famine Memorial is situated on Custom House Quay in the Docklands area of Dublin city center, just a 10-minute stroll east of O’Connell Street. The memorial is also accessible by public transit: take the Luas Red Line tram to the Busáras stop. From there, the memorial is less than five minutes away on foot.
When to Get There
As the sculptures are out in the open air, they are best visited on dry days. In summer, camera-clicking sightseers often crowd the area after noon, so come early in the day if you want to get photographs without other people present.
On the Famine Trail in Ireland
Visitors planning on exploring other parts of Ireland outside Dublin will find plenty of opportunities to learn more about the devastating 19th-century famine and the impact it had on the country. In County Roscommon, find the National Famine Museum, situated on the Georgian-era country estate of Strokestown Park.
The Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna, County Galway documents life in workhouses for the poor and destitute, while Cobh Heritage Centre in County Cork and the replica Dunbrody Famine Ship in County Wexford, recounts the journeys of emigrants driven from Ireland by the Great Famine.
Address: Dublin, Ireland
From $ 12
Famagusta
Once a quintessential Mediterranean seaside resort and one of North Cyprus’ busiest tourist towns, the sandy beaches of Famagusta were left deserted in 1974, when the island was divided. With Famagusta falling under Turkish rule, the Greek occupants fled en-masse, leaving an eerie ghost town and many of the seafront hotels, shops and restaurants still lie empty today.
Not all of Famagusta has been abandoned though and strolling around the walled old quarter offers a glimpse into the town’s former glory. Dating back to the 13th century, the historic area is home to a number of key landmarks, including the medieval citadel of Othello’s Tower and the battle-worn St Nicholas’ Cathedral, now the Lala Mustafa Mosque.
Practical Info
Famagusta is located on the southeast coast of North Cyprus, around 65 km east of Nicosia.
Address: Famagusta, Cyprus
From $ 28
European Museum of Modern Art (MEAM)
Discover an unexpectedly delightful corner of Barcelona, and at the same time a world of figurative art, by visiting the European Museum of Modern Art. Located in the Born neighborhood, and just steps away from the Picasso Museum, this isn’t your average modern art museum, featuring only on the finest of contemporary figurative art from the 20th to 21st centuries.
The MEAM’s art collection focuses less on the abstract and instead on other curious pieces such as sculptures, photorealistic paintings, and more. Many of these works have been created by living artists, to which the museum extends support. MEAM’s venue is a delight, too, as it is housed in the Gomis Palace, a neoclassical building erected in 1790. Expect your relatively quick visit there to both rewarding and relaxing thanks to the intriguing artwork and the music-filled and crowd-free galleries.
Practical Info
Note that the museum closes on Mondays. Additionally, it hosts concerts on Fridays and Saturdays. You may wish to check their website for upcoming events and exhibitions.
Address: Carrer de la Barra de Ferro, 5, Barcelona, Catalonia 08003, Spain
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Closed Mondays.
Admission: General: €9; reduced: €7; children under 10: free
From $ 10
Evora
One of Portugal’s most fascinating destinations, Evora is a city full of historic national treasures that keep any visitor intrigued. From the Roman ruins of the Templo de Diana (Temple of Diana) featuring 14 original Corinthian columns, to the Capela dos Ossos (Bones of Chapel), which is completely decorated with human bones, Evora contains corner to corner historical encounters.
For a full-on educational experience on the history of this tremendous city, be sure to spend some time in the Historic Center of Evora, where you can discover ancient megaliths dating back to as far as 4000 BC, while puzzling together Evora’s diverse and immense background.
After visiting the Historic Center, take a second look around the city’s landmarks and architecture. You won’t be surprised to see that for such a small place, there is a wide array of buildings and designs from the renaissance, baroque, gothic, roman, and other eras.
For a full-on educational experience on the history of this tremendous city, be sure to spend some time in the Historic Center of Evora, where you can discover ancient megaliths dating back to as far as 4000 BC, while puzzling together Evora’s diverse and immense background.
After visiting the Historic Center, take a second look around the city’s landmarks and architecture. You won’t be surprised to see that for such a small place, there is a wide array of buildings and designs from the renaissance, baroque, gothic, roman, and other eras.
Practical Info
Located in Southern Portugal, Evora is a notably hot city, so be sure
when visiting that you bring plenty of water and closely watch weather
advisories. About 87 miles away from Lisbon, the best way to reach the
city is by car, although if that is not an option you prefer, you can
just as easily take the Intercity train or the express bus offered by
Rede expressos out of Lisbon.
Address: Evora, Portugal
From $ 58
EYE Film Institute
Dedicated to the preservation and history of Dutch and foreign films, the EYE Film Institute is an archive museum located in Amsterdam. It houses over 37,000 film titles, 60,000 posters, 700,000 photographs and 20,000 books, with some of the earliest materials dating back to 1895 when the movie industry was just starting in the capital. The permanent collection offers a fascinating glimpse into Dutch and world history. EYE is a vast complex that includes a cinematography museum (previously known as the Dutch Historical Film Archive), an auditorium, a souvenir shop filled with memorabilia, four movie theaters, as well as a waterfront restaurant and café. Many specialists refer to the EYE as the best cinema museum in the world.
The acclaimed, futuristic building was unveiled by Queen Beatrix in 2012 and was designed by Viennese firm Delugan Meissl Associated Architects, which specializes in über-modern buildings that appear to be in motion. Guided tours of the EYE are available upon request, although it is possible to simply wander around and admire the daring features free of charge. The EYE Film Institute is in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Overhoeks, across the canal behind Amsterdam Centraal; it is the first cultural attraction in Amsterdam to be located outside the main canal ring.
Practical Info
The EYE Film Institute is located the Overhoeks neighbourhood just north of Amsterdam Centraal. It can only be reached by ferry (#901) with departures every 12 minutes from the train station. Entry to the exhibitions cost € 12,50 per adult and € 8 per child; entry to the movie theater cost € 10 per adult and € 7,50 per child. The Film Institute exhibitions are open daily from 10am to 7pm, and until 9pm on Fridays, whereas the movie theater is open until 11pm on the weekends.
Address: IJpromenade 1, Amsterdam, North Holland 1031, Netherlands
Hours: Exhibitions: Daily from 10 am to 7 pm, and until 9 pm on Fridays
Admission: Exhibitions: Adult: € 12,50: Children under 12 years old: € 8
From $ 32
Family Home of John Paul II
Built around 1870, the tenement house at No 7 Kościelna Street where the Holy Father John Paul II was raised has been operating as a papal museum since 1984. Visitors may take a trip through different stages of the Holy Father’s life by touring the multimedia exhibition that invites reflection and shows what the climate and life was like in pre-war Wadowice. The museum attracts 300,000- 400,000 visitors each year to tour the few rooms in which John Paul was born and raised. The tour begins on the ground level and ascends by ramps to the top of the museum. The two main rooms of the original home are the central focus of the museum, with the multimedia exhibit constructed lovingly around them. The museum includes personal items that were meaningful in John Paul’s life, including the Vatican clock (which was stopped at the moment of his death) and the Polish bible, which was read to him by the sisters in his final moments.
Insider’s Tip: Be sure to try John Paul’s favorite cream cake (Kremowka), which can be found in most of the town’s bakeries and cafes.
Practical Info
Self-touring the museum is not allowed, but guided tours in different languages are included in the price of admission. The guided tour takes a little over an hour. On Tuesdays, entrance to the museum is free. No photography is allowed in the museum.
Address: Kościelna 7, Wadowice 34-100, Poland
Hours: May-September, 9am-7pm daily (last admission at 5:40pm); November-March, 9am-4pm daily (last admission at 2:40pm); April and October, 9am-6pm daily (last admission at 4:40pm)
Admission: 30 PLN includes guided tour
From $ 49
Europa-Park
Second only to Disneyland Paris as Europe’s largest theme park, Germany’s Europa-Park is a wonderland of rides, shows, and attractions that will entertain the whole family. The park is inspired by iconic European destinations—visitors can zoom through the Alps on a roller-coaster, ride a London bus, see Iceland's Northern Lights, and meet the fairytale characters of Grimm’s Enchanted Forest.
The Basics
Most travelers dedicate a full day to take in the highlights of Europa-Park. Both 1- and 2-day passes are available, and include entrance to all rides and shows. Pre-book your tickets to enjoy fast-track entrance and extras such as hotel pickup and transfers to and from the park. Travelers from nearby Switzerland can also visit on a day tour from Basel or Geneva.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With so many rides and shows to enjoy, it’s worth planning your visit carefully to ensure you don’t miss the park’s top attractions.
- Families with young kids can take advantage of the Baby Switch pass, which allows parents to take turns holding their baby while one rides an attraction. There is also a special baby lounge with feeding and changing areas, as well as strollers available for hire.
- Visitor facilities include a range of hotels, restaurants, and gift shops, plus a spa and wellness center.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on-site.
- Many attractions and shows at Europa-Park are wheelchair accessible, and entrance is free for disability badge holders.
How to Get There
Europa-Park is located in Rust in southwest Germany, close to the French and Swiss borders. Reaching the park by road takes about 40 minutes from Strasbourg, France; one hour from Basel, Switzerland; or about 90 minutes from Stuttgart, Germany. The closest international airport is Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden, from where shuttle buses can take you to the park in roughly two hours. Trains from Offenburg and Freiburg im Breisgau arrive at the Ringsheim railway station, which is a short taxi ride from the park.
When to Get There
Europa-Park’s winter season runs from November 25 to January 7, while the summer season runs from March 24 to November 4. Summer is the busiest time to visit, when the park can get crowded and wait times for the most popular rides can be over an hour. Winter visitors can benefit from slightly cheaper entrance fees and special discounted evening tickets, as well as fewer crowds and seasonal attractions such as an ice rink and ice sculpture display. Some rides and shows close for the winter season.
Adrenaline-Fueled Activities at Europa-Park
With over 50 attractions and 11 death-defying roller-coasters, it’s easy to get your adrenaline fix at the Europa amusement park. Dare to ride the high-speed Silver Star, Wodan Timbur, or Blue Fire roller-coasters; fly through the air on the Voletarium; make a splash on the Poseidon or Atlantica Supersplash water rides; then prepare to be entertained at the 4D cinema.
Address: Europa-Park-Straße 2, Rust 77977, Germany
Hours: Daily 9am-6pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 51
Falesia Beach
Stretching for 6km between the villages of Vilamoura and Olhos do Agua, Falésia Beach is one of Portugal’s longest beaches and it’s a serene spot, with miles of pristine golden sands hemmed in by towering red sea cliffs and crops of pine forests.
A firm favorite among both locals and tourists, Falésia is ideal for swimming and water sports, while the cliff top resort is well served with restaurants, hotels, playgrounds and golf courses. Falésia and neighboring Quarteira beach also offer a magnificent backdrop for walking, cycling or Segway tours, with the palm-lined promenades and coastal lanes offering breath-taking views.
Practical Info
Falésia Beach runs from Vilamoura in the west to Olhos do Agua in the east, on the south coast of the Algarve.
Address: Albufeira, Portugal
From $ 64
Fado Museum
Fado, a traditional music style popularized in the streets and taverns of Lisbon during the 1800s, is Portugal’s version of the blues. Birthed amid the underclass of the city, fado gradually gained popularity, moving out of seedy taverns and into upscale dance halls and theaters before falling out of fashion in the late 1970s.
The Fado Museum occupies a former pumping station in Lisbon’s Alfama District, the neighborhood where fado was born, and traces the history of the musical style through a collection of recordings, posters, costumes, vintage memorabilia and interactive exhibits. An onsite museum school offers courses in fado lyrics and Portuguese guitar. The museum shop sells albums by iconic fado artists — a lightweight souvenir by which to remember time spent in Lisbon.
Practical Info
The Fado Museum is closed on Mondays.
Address: Largo do Chafariz de Dentro 1, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: 5€
From $ 23
Falls Road Murals
West Belfast’s Falls Road was a violent flashpoint during the Northern Irish conflict. Falls Road is in a predominantly Catholic nationalist neighborhood that borders Shankill Road, a mostly Protestant unionist area. The two areas are now separated by a peace wall that is adorned with hundreds of colorful politically themed murals.
The Basics
The Falls Road murals are a must for travelers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the Northern Irish conflict, known as the “Troubles.” Hop-on hop-off bus tours of Belfast ride along the stretch of murals, allowing passengers to disembark to view these evocative, large-scale images.
Many of the murals have political themes, including one depicting Bobby Sands, the Republican prisoner who died while on hunger strike in 1981. Informative Black Cab tours of the area can help visitors understand the motifs and symbolic meanings behind the Falls Road murals. These can be combined with Northern Ireland highlights tours, which typically visit scenic sights outside the city, such as the Giants Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Falls Road murals are a must for anyone with an interest in Northern Irish history, and the changing city of Belfast.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll spend most of your time exploring on foot.
- Bring an umbrella or a waterproof outer layer as there is little shelter on the Falls Road.
How to Get There
Falls Road is situated in West Belfast, a 5–10 minute drive from the city center. Translink metro bus routes 10a, 10b, 10h, and 10j all depart from Castle Street in central Belfast and stop along the Falls Road. Most hop-on hop-off bus tours of the city also stop at the Falls Road murals.
When to Get There
The Falls Road is a busy city street. It is rarely crowded with tourists, but it does see quite a lot of vehicular traffic. Go during daylight hours for the best views of the colorful murals, and keep out of the way of cars.
The Peace Walls of Belfast
Erected in parts of Belfast and other Northern Irish cities during the height of the Troubles, the Northern Irish peace walls were erected to help prevent outbursts of violence between divided communities. Though they were originally designed to be temporary, many of Belfast’s peace walls remain, including the one that runs along Cupar Way between the Falls Road and Shankill Road. This wall is punctuated by gates, which typically remain open during the day, allowing visitors and locals to pass freely between both sides of the divide.
Address: Belfast, Northern Ireland
From $ 16
Faberg e Museum
Housed in the suitably opulent Shuvalov Palace, the Fabergé Museum is a tribute to legendary Russian jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé. The St. Petersburg highlight showcases Russia’s treasured series of Fabergé eggs alongside a dazzling collection of Russian art, jewelry, and artifacts.
The Basics
An admission ticket for the Fabergé Museum includes full access to the museum’s 12 exhibition halls, which contain over 4,000 items such as silverware, porcelain, icons, and Russian impressionist paintings. Nine Fabergé eggs are the star attraction, of course, but other notable finds include enamel pieces by Pavel Ovchinnikov, military artworks by Karl Piratskiy and Pyotr Ivanovich Balashov, and Fabergé clocks, jewelry, and diamond-encrusted trinket boxes.
You can explore the museum on a guided or self-guided tour, or combine a visit to the Fabergé Museum with a city tour of St. Petersburg. Entrance is included with a St. Petersburg CityPass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Fabergé Museum is ideal for art lovers and first-time visitors to Saint Petersburg.
- Audio guides are available in several different languages.
- The Fabergé Museum is accessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Fabergé Museum is located along the Fontanka River Embankment in downtown St. Petersburg, within walking distance of top attractions such as the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Mikhailovsky Castle (St. Michael’s Castle), and the State Russian Museum. The closest metro stations are Gostiny Dvor and Mayakovskaya, both on Line 3.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 10am to 9pm daily except Friday; tours run until 6pm. To avoid the crowds, opt for an early-morning visit on a weekday.
Fabergé Eggs
Born in St. Petersburg, Peter Carl Fabergé was a talented jeweler who was appointed to serve the Russian court in 1885. In over 35 years of Tsarist patronage, Fabergé and his diamond cutters and goldsmiths created 54 gold eggs to mark significant occasions, from coronations to royal weddings. Following the assassination of the Romanovs in 1918, the Bolsheviks stole the imperial jewelry collection, and Fabergé fled to Lausanne, Switzerland, where he died two years later.
In more recent years, Russia has been quietly buying back its cultural heritage, and in 2013 opened the Fabergé Museum to house its collection of nine eggs (the largest collection in the world). Highlights of the collection include the first egg that Fabergé created in 1885—for Tsar Alexander III as a gift for his wife, Empress Maria Feodorovna.
Address: 21, Fontanka River Embankment, St Petersburg, Russia
Admission: Varies
From $ 10