Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Gorges du Loup
Forty-five minutes from Antibes in France’s Alpes-Maritimes region, the scenic drive along the Gorges du Loup takes visitors up close to the Loup River (pronounced “Lou”) as it follows the deep canyon out to the Mediterranean Sea at Bouches-du-Loup. Cutting through the hills at the foot of medieval Gourdon village, the Gorges du Loup road is full of beautiful twists and carved-out tunnels.
Two and a half miles (4 km) into the narrowing gorge, keep an eye out for Cascade de Courmes. For a small fee, you can park your car and walk down the steps to the terrace, where the free-falling cascade descends 130 feet (40 meters) below. There are two other waterfalls to be visited at Gorges du Loup: Saut du Loup and Cascades des Demoiselles.
At the mouth of the canyon, the riverside village of Pont du Loup is a pretty spot to stop for a wander. And not far from the gorge, Tourrettes sur Loup is another popular village stop, famous for its thriving artists’ community and hiking trails around the town.
At Gorges du Loop, visitors can go rock climbing, bungee jumping, hiking and biking—or just enjoy the beautiful view and riverside drive.
Practical Info
To get to the gorge, take a 45-minute drive from Antibes on the D2210 and follow the road signposted as “Les Gorges du Loup.”
Address: Grasse, France
From $ 127
Golden Circle Route
There’s a lot to see in Iceland, and the grand Golden Circle is your ticket to easily hitting multiple popular sights, especially if you only have one day to venture outside Reykjavik. Departing from the city, Golden Circle tours showcase a number of Iceland’s main attractions and natural wonders—think geysers, waterfalls, lava fields, volcanic craters, and Icelandic horses. There are few other places in Europe where you can see so much topographical variety on one short trip.
Stunning Sights Along the Golden Circle
Closest to Reykjavik on the route is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament. Head next to the world-famous Geysir and Strokkur geysers, where you’ll see eruptions every six to 10 minutes; the 600-foot-wide (180-meter) Gullfoss waterfall; and Kerid Crater Lake, which is surrounded by striking red volcanic rock. The Golden Circle is also an important geothermal area for Iceland (which runs almost entirely on renewable energy), with the Nesjavellir power plant and the Hveragerdi greenhouse village nearby.
How to Visit with Viator
Most Golden Circle excursions depart from Reykjavik by bus, include an expert guide, and comprise an entire day of sightseeing. If you have time, opt for a group or private tour that tacks on additional activities along the way. Take an Icelandic Super Jeep tour; whitewater raft on the river Hvítá; try a snowmobile tour on the Langjökull Glacier; search for the Northern Lights in winter; or dip into the super heated water of the Blue Lagoon or the Secret Lagoon hot springs.
Insider Tip
The Golden Circle route is one of the most popular day tours among travelers, so expect some crowds. And don’t confuse this expedition with a trip around the Ring Road, which circles the entire country and is best seen with a rental car and (at least) a week’s time.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes and layers no matter the season.
- Most sites have paved boardwalks and flat ground for easy accessibility.
- Don’t worry about food and WiFi—many tour buses include wireless internet, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way that provide both.
- From mid-May to mid-August, the sun only dips below the horizon for about three hours per day in Iceland, making the atmosphere especially beautiful in the lingering twilight. In midwinter, you'll get only about five hours of daylight.
How to Get There
It takes just over three hours to drive the famous Golden Circle from Reykjavik, but plan on spending anywhere from six to eight hours depending on how long you explore at each stop. Most bus tours do the full loop before returning to the city. Whether you’re traveling by bus or rental car, the route is paved and 4x4 vehicles aren’t necessary.
Address: Iceland
Admission: Free
From $ 47
Gothic Quarter
Barcelona's Gothic Quarter (Barri Gótic) dates back to the Middle Ages, and the neighborhood’s age is evident in its narrow winding roads, shady plazas, and beautiful architecture (including three major cathedrals). Passersby find gems tucked away in the nooks and crannies off the narrow streets—think trendy restaurants, chic bars, and boutique shops. The area's proximity to the La Rambla pedestrian mall also contributes to its popularity among the young, nightlife-loving crowd.
The Basics
Few come to Barcelona without spending time in the Gothic Quarter. Situated between El Born and El Raval, the neighborhood is home to the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça Sant Jaume, Plaça Reial, and the city's most intact stretch of Roman wall. Its winding streets make it an easy and pleasant place to get lost for an afternoon, but seeing it with a guide will unlock the area's historic and cultural significance. Most walking, cycling, and Segway tours spend time in the Gothic Quarter.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many travelers opt to get oriented with a guided tour before wandering the Gothic Quarter on your own.
- This neighborhood is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. The Gothic Quarter is expansive and the pavement not always even.
- Some of the shops and restaurants in the neighborhood close on Sundays.
How to Get to the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter sits in the middle of Barcelona's Old Town, with La Rambla to one side and Via Laietana to the other. The quarter itself is easy to navigate on foot, as most streets are closed to traffic, and it's accessible from other areas of the city via the metro (Liceu, Jaume I, or Plaça Catalunya stations).
When to Get There
The narrow streets can get packed with people in July and August, peak tourist season in Barcelona. Late summer is also the hottest time of year, with temperatures rising into the high 80s and low 90s F. In spring and fall, cool temperatures and sparser crowds make for pleasant exploration, while visitors who come during the holiday season can see the neighborhood lit up in colorful lights or shop at the Christmas market in front of the Barcelona Cathedral.
The Gothic Quarter and the Spanish Civil War
This neighborhood witnessed some of the most significant moments of the Spanish Civil War in Barcelona. In the now serene Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, shrapnel-scarred walls testify to the bombs dropped in January 1938. The Hotel Continental, situated along La Rambla, was where George Orwell and his wife stayed during the war; he mentions it in his book "Homage to Catalonia."
Address: Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
Admission: Free
From $ 10
Goethe House & Museum (Goethehaus)
The Goethe House & Museum is the site where the great German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born in 1749. Goethe’s former house is a fantastic and tangible example of the living style of the 18th century Frankfurt's gentry. The house was technically Goethe's parents', and he lived here until moving to Weimar where he died in 1765.
Main features include Goethe's original writing desk and the library on the fourth floor, where Goethe composed his famous epistolary, The Sorrows of Young Werther, and where he began writing Faust. The rooms are decorated with a charming mix of reproduction and original furnishing. The museum is a picture gallery dedicated to the Age of Goethe. The Goethe House & Museum offer an intriguing a peek into 18th century lifestyles and Goethe’s early years.
Practical Info
The Goethe Haus, birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, is a must-see for German literature fans. Get there from the U-Bahn or S-Bahn via Hauptwache.
Address: Großer Hirschgraben 23-25, Frankfurt 60311, Germany
Hours: Mon - Sat 10am – 6pm, Sun and public holidays 10am – 5:30pm
Admission: € 5
From $ 20
Goreme
It’s one of the strangest landscapes you’ll ever see: the cliffs and valleys and fairy chimneys of Göreme National Park in Cappadocia. Wind and water erosion scoured out this land of soft volcanic ash (tufa) leaving this extraordinary place of valleys and pillars, some of which rise to 130 feet (40m).
The earliest settlers were Christian exiles in Roman times and they carved churches into the rock, along with houses and tombs. In the Middle Ages Göreme became an important religious center with monasteries, churches and chapels; many of which have impressive Byzantine religious wall paintings. Some of the most important are Basil Kilise (St Basil’s Church), Elmali Kilise (Apple Church), and the richly decorated Tokali Kilise (Buckle Church), which is the oldest. The best-preserved and recently restored frescoes can be found in the Karanlık Kilise (Dark Church).
The town of Göreme itself is the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site and only a 15 minute walk from the Göreme Open Air Museum (1 mile/1.5 km), which is open every day but it’s wise to go early during summer months, before the heat hits. Some people in Göreme still live in cave houses and many have been turned into hotels.
The earliest settlers were Christian exiles in Roman times and they carved churches into the rock, along with houses and tombs. In the Middle Ages Göreme became an important religious center with monasteries, churches and chapels; many of which have impressive Byzantine religious wall paintings. Some of the most important are Basil Kilise (St Basil’s Church), Elmali Kilise (Apple Church), and the richly decorated Tokali Kilise (Buckle Church), which is the oldest. The best-preserved and recently restored frescoes can be found in the Karanlık Kilise (Dark Church).
The town of Göreme itself is the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site and only a 15 minute walk from the Göreme Open Air Museum (1 mile/1.5 km), which is open every day but it’s wise to go early during summer months, before the heat hits. Some people in Göreme still live in cave houses and many have been turned into hotels.
Address: Cappadocia, Turkey
From $ 41
Gournes Beach
Gournes Beach is a sandy beach in the town of Gournes on northern Crete. It is located nine miles east of Heraklion, the capital of the island. The town is on a fertile plain where vegetables and olives are grown. Gournes was once the site of a US Air Force communications base, but when the base closed in 1993, many locals became unemployed. The coastal town has since built itself up again as a quiet vacation destination. The town has no banks or pharmacies, and only a few stores. However, there are small guesthouses, restaurants and taverns to provide a fun beach vacation for visitors. The Crete Aquarium, the largest aquarium in southern Europe, is also located in Gournes.
The sandy beaches of Gournes are along the north shore of Crete. Some areas of the beach are well organized with lifeguards, umbrellas and lounge chairs, while other sections are stretches of open sand. Some parts of the beach are across the street from restaurants where sunbathers can get drinks and snacks. There are several man-made rock jetties to break the waves, and several coves have formed in between the jetties. The beach meets with beaches of neighboring towns to form part of the largest coastal tourist area in Crete.
Practical Info
There are regular buses that connect Heraklion with Gournes. The airport in Heraklion is the closest airport to Gournes.
Address: Gournes Beach, Gournes, Crete, Greece
From $ 60
Godollo Palace
Located northeast of Budapest, the Baroque treasure that is Gödöllö Palace originally belonged to the aristocratic Grassalkovich family, but by the 1890s it had been taken over by the Habsburg dynasty – who ruled the Austro-Hungarian Empire from 1526 to 1918 – as their favored summer retreat. Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife, Hungary’s much-loved Elisabeth of Bavaria, gave Gödöllö the mother of all makeovers and the palace soon became one of the most luxurious Baroque castles in the world.
Elisabeth was usually known as Sisi, a famed beauty who set about upgrading the interior of the palace to her taste; tragically she was assassinated in 1898 in Geneva and Gödöllö slowly sunk into disrepair. Following Soviet occupation of Hungary in the aftermath of World War II, the palace was requisitioned as a barracks and was slowly destroyed. It was not until well after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1989 that the palace was returned to its Habsburg heyday.
By 1996, Gödöllö’s ornate exterior was once more a striking white and pink, accessorized with arched windows and wrought-iron balconies. Its central wing is topped by a red-brick bell tower and the vast palace is again surrounded by formal gardens and Baroque stable blocks fashioned on the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Inside all is adorned with frescoes, gold and chandeliers; apartments are crammed with priceless antiques, statuary, weaponry and portraits of the Habsburg emperors; seasonal exhibitions focus on the centuries of their rule in central Europe.
Practical Info
Gödöllö is 30 km (18.5 miles) northeast of Budapest, easily accessible by road, HÉV train or bus. Open Apr–Oct daily 10am–6pm; Nov–Dec Mon–Fri 10am–4pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm; Tickets for the permanent displays in the palace: adults HUF2,200, students HUF1,100, family tickets HUF4,600.
Address: Grassalkovich-kastély, HRSZ: 5852, Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
Hours: April thru Oct, Daily 10am-6pm & Nov thru Dec, Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults HUF2,200 & Students HUF1,100
From $ 42
Gordes
When you stand at the precipice of the precariously perched Gordes in Provence and look into the valley below, you'll see a road leading away towards Apt. See it? That road is thousands of years old, built by the Romans. So in case the town itself doesn't knock your socks off – and if it doesn't, check your pulse – then the sight of that road should make you realize just how much history there is in this area of France.
And the history of Gordes doesn't stop with the Romans; from fortifications against Arabs in the first millennium to the 12th century Sénanque Abbey surrounded by lavender to its eventual addition as a French royal provence in the Middle Ages and a Resistance stronghold during WWII, this is not your run-of-the-mill charming village.
Today Gordes is one of those “hidden gem” towns, often overlooked for the more popular Avignon nearby. But between Peter Mayle's mention of it in his books as well as being a popular location for films, it's coming into its own and welcomes visitors with open arms. Helping with its hospitality is the fact that it holds the official classification of being one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France; its residents are justly proud of the title, and much care has been taken to accommodate visitors without destroying what makes it so special.
With so much to see and do in the area, it's an easy visit up to Gordes (as long as you aren't squeamish on winding roads). It shouldn't take you any longer than 45 minutes to get there from Avignon; then you can head back down to Cavaillon to taste the famous local melon that bears its name!
Address: Gordes, France
From $ 45
Goynuk Canyon
Kemer is a seaside resort on the Gulf of Antalya. One of the major attractions of Kemer is its natural beauty, with mountains, canyons, and pine forests a main feature. Goynuk Canyon remained an undiscovered mystery for years, but has grown in popularity with tourists of late, due not only to its scenic nature, but also its opportunities for outdoor adventures.
There are numerous local tour companies offering various canyoning and climbing tours within Goynuk Canyon. If not climbing or canyoning as part of an organized tour, it’s possible to simply drive (or take a taxi) up to the entrance and then hike all the way to the top. Visitors will be rewarded with some spectacular views and be greeted by wildlife such as goats,
rabbits, and even wild pigs along the way.
There is a small restaurant and a seating area at the site, and it’s also possible to go swimming in the canyon’s cool waters. Tour companies are on hand to provide wetsuits and helmets for an extra fee, which means adventurers can swim through to a stunning waterfall at the other side of the canyon.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of a tour, the easiest way to reach Goynuk Canyon is to take a taxi or to drive. There’s a car park at the entrance to the site.
Address: Goynuk Canyon, Kemer, Turkey
Admission: 3 Euro
From $ 31
Golden Hinde
Few historic ships can boast of voyages as great as the Golden Hinde, whose round-the-globe expedition between 1577 and 1580, captained by Sir Francis Drake, was one of the great journeys of the Elizabethan era.
Today, a full sized reconstruction of the iconic ship, originally called the ‘Pelican’ and renamed the Golden Hinde mid-voyage, stands at Bankside along the River Thames, offering visitors the chance to step onboard and learn about the galleon’s great adventures. As well as peeking into the cabins and engine room, costumed actors and interactive tours allow visitors to discover the life of a Tudor sailor, and it’s even possible to help raise the anchor and fire the guns.
Practical Info
The Golden Hinde is located on the south bank of the River Thames, close to London Bridge.
Address: 1, Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street, London, England
Hours: 10am – 5.30pm daily, except during private events
Admission: Tours start at: £6 Adults, £4.50 Children, £18 Family of 4
From $ 6
Golden Lane
Golden Lane, often referred to as the Street of the Alchemists or Alchemist’s Alley, is a little alley situated at Prague Castle and one of the most famous and picturesque streets in the city. Golden Lane and its tiny colored houses were constructed in the 15th century as an alley between the Roman and Late Gothic walls in the northern part of the castle. At first, it housed the castle guards who patrolled the fortification, but since there were more guards than space, the resulting buildings seem to be more fitting for dwarves than for humans. A century later, the tiny alley with the cozy houses apparently became popular with artists and among them, a number of goldsmiths. According to legend, some of these goldsmiths were in fact alchemists, tasked by Emperor Rudolf II to find a way to turn common metals into gold and find the philosopher’s stone. Even though this is historically inaccurate, the legend has only increased the street’s popularity.
In later centuries, Golden Lane with its magical atmosphere kept attracting artists and bohemians as residents. Among them is the Czech-Jewish writer Franz Kafka, who rented house number 22 for two years to be able to write in peace. Today, one can find souvenir shops and galleries in the miniature houses and visitors can visit a real 16th century setup in house number 20.
Practical Info
You can find Golden Lane in the northeastern corner of Prague Castle. You can get there by taking trams number 22 and 23 to the stop Prazsky Hrad or simply by walking. The alley can be visited daily from 9am to 5pm between April and October and from 9am to 4pm the rest of the year.
Address: Zlatá ulička, Prague, Czech Republic
Hours: Daily from 9am to 5pm between April and October and from 9am to 4pm the rest of the year.
From $ 13
Gornji Grad (Upper Town)
With narrow cobblestone streets, red tiled roofs, and gorgeous medieval squares, Gornji Grad (Upper Town) is Zagreb’s historic district and most picturesque part. Many of the city’s most visited tourist attractions are here, including the Stone Gate, Zagreb Cathedral, and the Bloody Bridge.
The Basics
Situated on a hilltop overlooking the city, Gornji Grad is best explored on foot. Take a guided walking tour of the centuries-old streets to learn about Zagreb’s medieval history and hear the stories behind the famous Bloody Bridge and the Stone Gate. Don’t miss a visit to St. Mark’s Church, easily recognized by its colorful tiled roof depicting the Croatian, Dalmatian, and Slavonian coats of arms and the Zagreb city emblem.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gornji Grad is a must-see for first-time visitors to the city.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as Gornji Grad’s streets are cobbled and can be uneven.
- If traveling with kids, a ride on the Zagreb Funicular is a must.
- For a unique experience, visit the Museum of Broken Relationships.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to Gornji Grad. The most fun way is to take a ride on the Zagreb Funicular, a cobalt-blue cog railway that whisks travelers up the hill from Donji Grad (Lower Town) in just over a minute. You can also take a bus, tram, or taxi or walk to Gornji Grad from lower Zagreb.
When to Get There
Gornji Grad can be visited year-round. Summer, with pleasant and reliable weather and street festivals and activities galore, is by far the most popular time to visit. Zagreb is also fantastic to visit in winter and boasts one of the best Advent scenes in Europe. With winter markets, festivals, and millions of twinkling lights, the capital in an unforgettable place to spend the holiday season.
The Grič Cannon
Among Zagreb’s unique traditions is the Grič Cannon, which is fired each day at noon from the Lotrščak Tower near the top of the funicular. For a small admission, you can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy one of the best views in the city.
Address: Gornji Grad, Zagreb, Croatia
From $ 9
Goldenes Dachl
Innsbruck’s iconic Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) is found on Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, the main square in Innsbruck’s charming Gothic and Baroque Altstadt (Old Town). The three-story, gold-topped balcony is tacked on the Neuhof (New Court), which was built by Archduke Friedrich IV in the early 15th century as a residence fit for kings.
The Golden Roof was constructed in 1500 at the behest of Habsburg Emperor Maximilian I in celebration of his second dynastic marriage, this time to Bianca Maria Sforza of Milan. The roof glitters with 2,657 sparkling gilded copper tiles, apparently placed there to confound rumors that the Imperial Family was running out of money.
Intricate carved wooden reliefs and frescoes painted on to the balcony show the emperor’s many coats of arms, and his likeness alongside that of both his wives. The structure also provided Maximilian I with an appropriately regal spot from which to observe tournaments and festivals in the square beneath. At Christmas, carolers appear on the balcony to serenade the crowds at the Yuletide Market in the square.
Inside the Neuhof, the six-room multimedia Maximilianeum showcases the life and times of Maximilian I, highlighting the political and economic power struggles endemic in Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Practical Information
The Goldenes Dachl is accessible on foot in Innsbruck’s pedestrianized area, just a few minutes’ walk from the main parking garages. The museum is open from December through October, and closed on Mondays between October and April. Multi-language audio guides are available in the museum. There is an admission fee for the museum but it’s free for Innsbruck Card holders; this pass allows free entry into most major Innsbruck museums and Swarovski Crystal Worlds.
Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, Innsbruck 6020, Austria
Hours: Open daily from 10am - 5pm; closed during November
Admission: The roof can be photographed 24/7, but entrance to the museum is €4 (USD$5.25)
From $ 11
Golden Horn
Thank the natural harbor of the Golden Horn for the rise of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The inlet separates Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district from Beyoglu, and is spanned by the Ataturk, Halic, and Galata bridges. An ages-old thoroughfare, ferries ply the Golden Horn to historical neighborhoods including Fener, Balat, and Eyup.
The Basics
Istanbul’s historical prominence throughout many centuries is thanks partially to the Golden Horn, the natural protective harbor off of the Bosphorus Strait. Its military and economic benefits allowed empires to thrive. Today the vibrant neighborhoods along the Golden Horn draw visitors to their many museums, churches, synagogues, mosques, and other attractions.
Many private and small-group Istanbul city tours explore the areas around the Golden Horn and stop at the Chora Church (Kariye Museum), Miniaturk, the Walls of Constantinople, Pierre Loti Hill, and more. Sightseeing cruises abound as well—there are even rowing tours of the Golden Horn’s waters. Some tours provide round-trip transportation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Golden Horn area is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Istanbul, especially history buffs.
- The green parks that line the banks of the Golden Horn are popular with locals.
- Watch the light change at sunset from one of the Golden Horn’s atmospheric bridges.
How to Get There
The Golden Horn passes the transit hub of Eminonu Square and spans the length of the old city peninsula. The mouth of the Golden Horn is accessible by ferries, buses, and trams at Eminonu and Karakoy. The Halic metro stops directly over the Golden Horn.
When to Get There
Fener, Balat, Eyupm and other neighborhoods along the Golden Horn are popular with locals and travelers, and get crowded in the afternoon. Arrive earlier in the day to beat the crowds. Though museums close in the evening, come at night to get a sense of local life along the Golden Horn.
History Along the Golden Horn
The neighborhood of Fener contains the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate and the striking Fener Greek Orthodox College—known locally as the Red School—as well as various churches that date to Byzantine times. Stroll farther up the Golden Horn to Balat, a traditionally Jewish neighborhood that still contains synagogues. Then continue on to Eyup, a bustling Muslim neighborhood known for the Eyup Sultan Mosque.
Address: Galata Bridge, Istanbul 34357, Turkey
Admission: Free
From $ 29
Goreme Open Air Museum
One of Cappadocia’s most famous sites is the Göreme Open Air Museum, a ring shaped collection of churches cut into the soft volcanic cliffs.
In the 4th century the area became known as the Land of the Three Saints after the theologians St. Basil the Great, his brother St. Gregory of Nyssa, and St. Gregory of Nazianzus. In the Middle Ages the importance of this area again soared and many monasteries, churches and chapels were dug out of the rock. The best of these still have vivid Byzantine frescoes of religious scenes.
Churches include Basil Kilise (St Basil’s Church), Elmali Kilise (Apple Church), and the richly decorated Tokali Kilise (Buckle Church), which is the oldest and lies just outside the gates of the museum. The best-preserved frescoes are in the Karanlık Kilise (Dark Church) which has been restored after being used as a pigeon house until the 1950s. The Göreme Open Air Museum is just a 15-minute walk (1 mile/1.5km) from Göreme or a short drive from Ürgüp.
In the 4th century the area became known as the Land of the Three Saints after the theologians St. Basil the Great, his brother St. Gregory of Nyssa, and St. Gregory of Nazianzus. In the Middle Ages the importance of this area again soared and many monasteries, churches and chapels were dug out of the rock. The best of these still have vivid Byzantine frescoes of religious scenes.
Churches include Basil Kilise (St Basil’s Church), Elmali Kilise (Apple Church), and the richly decorated Tokali Kilise (Buckle Church), which is the oldest and lies just outside the gates of the museum. The best-preserved frescoes are in the Karanlık Kilise (Dark Church) which has been restored after being used as a pigeon house until the 1950s. The Göreme Open Air Museum is just a 15-minute walk (1 mile/1.5km) from Göreme or a short drive from Ürgüp.
Address: Cappadocia, Turkey
Hours: Apr–Oct: 8:30am - 5:30pm; Nov–Mar: 8am - 4:30pm
Admission: €15
From $ 29
Gorky Park
Named after Russian author Maxim Gorky, Gorky Park is Moscow’s most famous park, covering 300 acres along the Moskva River near the center of the city. Opened in 1928, it was the first park of its kind in Russia and served as a model for other parks throughout the country. During Soviet times, it was a center of activity for Moscow residents, featuring roller-coasters, a Ferris wheel and other western-style carnival rides, as well as more formal gardens and woodlands.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the park fell into disrepair, but has been completely reconstructed in recent years. Old amusement park rides have been cleared away to make room for a more eco-friendly recreational area. Today, the park features contemporary art displays, new cafes and an open air cinema. Lounge chairs and pillow-shaped bean bags welcome those looking for a little relaxation and free wi-fi is available throughout. Visitors can participate in activities such as aerobics, yoga or salsa dancing classes. In the winter months, a 15,000 square-meter ice rink opens with separate areas for children, dancing, hockey and ice skating.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the park fell into disrepair, but has been completely reconstructed in recent years. Old amusement park rides have been cleared away to make room for a more eco-friendly recreational area. Today, the park features contemporary art displays, new cafes and an open air cinema. Lounge chairs and pillow-shaped bean bags welcome those looking for a little relaxation and free wi-fi is available throughout. Visitors can participate in activities such as aerobics, yoga or salsa dancing classes. In the winter months, a 15,000 square-meter ice rink opens with separate areas for children, dancing, hockey and ice skating.
Practical Info
The best way to reach Gorky Park is to take the Metro to the Park Kultury station. From there, cross the Moskva River on Krymsky bridge and the entrance will be on the right.
Address: 9, Krymskiy Val, Moscow 117049, Russia
Hours: Open Daily: 10am - 10pm
From $ 174
Golden House of Nero (Domus Aurea)
The Roman emperor Nero was not known for his restraint, and the Golden House (Domus Aurea) reflects his decadent taste and lifestyle. Built after Rome’s great fire in AD 64, the remains of this sumptuous pleasure palace, covering nearly one-third of the ancient city of Rome—dwarfing the nearby Colosseum—are now open to the public.
The Basics
Nero’s Golden House—designed primarily for the ruler’s leisure and entertainment and named for its facade decorated in marble and gold leaf—covered much of the area around the Palatine, Esquiline, and Oppian Hills in the heart of ancient Rome. The palace originally had more than 300 rooms exquisitely decorated with precious ivory, mosaics, frescoes, gem-studded ceilings, and grand fountains. Among the most important architectural aspects were two dining rooms flanking an octagonal room, the dome ceiling of which could be rotated to look like the sky. There were also sweeping gardens with an artificial lake and a colossal statue of the emperor. Today only around 20 percent of the original complex is still standing, including 30 rooms that reopened to the public in 2014.
You can view the palace’s architecture and art, more than 2,000 years old, only as part of a hard-hat Domus Aurea tour led by an archaeologist guide, so booking ahead is imperative, especially in summer. Tours of the Golden House include a virtual reality experience: you don augmented reality 3D glasses to see what the palace would have looked like in its heyday. Many tours combine a visit to Nero’s house with the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nero’s Golden House, an active archaeological site, is a must-see for ancient history and archaeology buffs.
- The multimedia tour makes use of Oculus Rift VR glasses, which are not recommended for children under 13, or for those with epilepsy or serious eye conditions.
- There is some walking involved to visit the site, so wear comfortable shoes.
- The Golden House is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The Domus Aurea is located in the center of Rome on the Palatine Hill. Take metro line B to Colosseo, the closest stop.
When to Get There
Nero’s Golden House is open for tours only on Saturdays and Sundays, so be sure to book in advance, especially in the summer months.
The Rediscovery of Nero’s Palace
After Nero’s suicide, subsequent emperors Vespasian, Titus, and Trajan buried Nero’s domus to build their own palaces above. The last of these buildings were Trajan’s Baths, under which the complex was rediscovered in the 15th century. Before the site was excavated and opened to the public, Renaissance artists including Pinturicchio and Raphael would lower themselves down inside the buried villa on ropes to study its intricate frescoes and decorations.
Address: Via della Domus Aurea,1, 00184, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 57
Gourmet Chocolate Museum
In the ritzy Opera district of Paris, the Gourmet Chocolate Museum (Musée Gourmand du Chocolat) dedicates itself to the history of chocolate, with plenty of tastings along the way.
Set over three floors, the museum is full of exhibitions, with its first level dedicated to chocolate’s Mexican origins. See the original tools the Olmecs, Mayans and Aztecs used to mix cocoa with chili to create a delicious drink more valuable to these ancient civilizations than gold.
The second floor showcases chocolate’s passage into Europe during the 16th century, when Spanish conquistadors brought cocoa back from Mexico and turned it into the sweet concoction we know today. During the kitchen demonstrations on the third floor, visitors can watch chocolate tablets being made and taste all kinds of gourmet cocoa treats.
Information boards, demonstrations and videos are all multilingual. There are plenty of activities to keep children entertained, too; completed puzzle sheets earn kids a chocolate gift.
Practical Info
The museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., with the last entry allowed at 5 p.m.To get to the Musée Gourmand du Chocolat on 28 boulevard Bonne-Nouvelle, take the metro to Bonne Nouvelle station. Tickets cost 9 EUR for adults and 6 EUR for youth, while those under the age of 6 are admitted for free. Plan on allocating an hour or two to the museum and its delights.
Address: 28 boulevard Bonne-Nouvelle, Paris, France
Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Admission: Adults 9 EUR, Youth 6 EUR, under 6 are free
From $ 13
Gourdon
Located in the south of France by the Loup River, the beautifully preserved village of Gourdon looks all the way out to the Cote d’Azur from its mountaintop peak. A place of refuge and defense during medieval times, the feudal village is surrounded by thick ramparts and has only one entrance, the Roman Gate, which leads onto Gourdon’s medieval stone house-lined main street, rue de Major. Here, look out for Maison d’Anglars at No. 17, which dates back to the 13th century.
Chateau de Gourdon, a historic monument since 1971, is a popular spot in Gourdon. The castle’s 17th-century gardens were designed by André Le Nôtre, who was also responsible for the Palace of Versailles’ famous gardens. At the top of the village sits a beautiful square revealing the huge church of St Pierre. For a perfect view of Gourdon’s golden-stoned ramparts, make sure to stop at the lookout point right before you enter the village.
Practical Info
The village of Gourdon is at the back of Valbonne, about a 45-minute drive from Antibes. The road up the mountainside to Gourdon is bendy, but the views are worth it.
Address: Gourdon, France
From $ 145
Godafoss
Often said to be one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, Godafoss (which translates to “Waterfall of the Gods”) cascades into the Skjálfandafljót River that tears through Bárdardalur lava field. It lies along the “Ring Road” and leads to the Sprengisandur highland plateau, nestled between Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers.
The Basics
What makes Godafoss waterfall so spectacular is the 330-foot-wide (100-meter), horseshoe-shaped canyon dug by the powerful river over the centuries. In typical Icelandic fashion, the canyon and waterfall are sort of split in two by black lava promontories, which only adds to the uniqueness of the place.
Guided tours of Iceland’s Diamond Circle and day tours to Lake Myvatn, leaving from Akureyri, typically include a stop at Godafoss. You can book a group or private tour and travel by 4WD vehicle, minibus or minivan, or even take an aerial tour in an airplane. Whether you visit the falls independently or on a guided excursion, be sure to take the path behind the falls for a more intimate, less-crowded viewpoint.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Godafoss is a must-see attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those with an interest in Icelandic history.
- Don’t forget to wear waterproof clothing: You can get soaked by the falls’ spray
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Access to the falls is free of charge.
- Although you can walk close to the edge on the west bank, practice utmost caution as the rocky ledges can be extremely slippery.
- There are several spots from where to get views of the falls, including a viewing platform and a nearby restaurant with free Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
Godafoss is located 31 miles (51 kilometers) east of Akureyri and you can reach it within around 45 minutes by car via Route 1 (Ring Road). The site has a parking lot with restroom facilities. If you’d rather not rent a car, you can join one of a number of tours leaving from Akureyri that include visits to Godafoss.
When to Get There
All of Iceland’s main attractions are at their busiest during the summer months. You can avoid the biggest crowds by visiting in the early morning or at night—long daylight hours mean you will still be able to see clearly. The weather in northeast Iceland can be challenging in winter, but the lack of crowds makes this a peaceful time to visit.
The Legend of Godafoss, Iceland’s Waterfall of the Gods
Even more than being one of North Iceland’s most beautiful sights, Godafoss waterfall holds a significant role in Icelandic folklore due to its role in the Christianization of the country. Legend has it that in the year 1,000, Iceland’s local Chieftain Thorgeir Ljósvetningagodi threw his heathen statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall upon returning from the Althingi (parliament), where he had decided that Iceland’s official religion would be Christianity from that point forward. In honor of his decisions, Thorgeir then decided to christen the mighty cascade, the “Waterfall of the Gods.”
Address: Iceland
From $ 136