Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Aquatopia
Right across the road from Antwerp’s other great family attraction, the zoo, Aquatopia is housed in a biscuit-colored Art Deco building and aims to educate and entertain kids on life in our oceans. With seven, maze-like themed marine habitats from rainforest to mangrove swamp, it provides a stimulating way to teach children about the amazing natural world beneath the sea. More than 10,000 fish and reptiles from over 250 species – from sea horses to sharks to iguanas – are housed in 40 aquariums with interactive presentations providing information on each tank; glass tunnels lead underwater so youngsters can get up close to the rays, eels and striking angel fish, enjoy the colors of the coral and watch turtles lumbering through the water.
Practical Info
Prams are not permitted in the museum; there is safe storage by the entrance. Aquatopia is close to Central Station and easily accessed on foot from the city center; several buses and trams also stop close by. Combination tickets can be bought with Antwerp Zoo.
Address: Koningin Astridplein 7, Antwerp, Flanders 2018, Belgium
Hours: Daily 10am–6pm
Admission: adults (over 13) €14.95; children aged three–12 €10; family ticket from €32
From $ 15
AquaDream Waterpark
AquaDream Waterpark is one of Turkey's largest water parks and the biggest water park in Marmaris. It is located on the top of a hill overlooking the city, which offers visitors a spectacular view of the city and surrounding landscape while enjoying the rides at the water park. The water park has a wide variety of water slides, each offering a different experience. Some are body slides while others involve sitting on a tube. There are also several pools, including a wave pool, a pool that doesn't allow children, and a normal swimming pool. The water park also has a children's area for smaller children who aren't old enough for the bigger slides. Along the perimeter of the pools, chairs and umbrellas are set up where you can lounge, relax, and sunbathe.
AquaDream Waterpark is fun for the whole family. It has a restaurant and bar with both indoor and outdoor seating, changing rooms, lockers, and hot and cold showers. There are lifeguards on duty at all times to ensure the safety of the visitors. Bring your bathing suit, towel and sunscreen.
Practical Info
AquaDream Waterpark is located at Şirinyer mah. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Cad. no:8/A-B, Armutalan, Marmaris. It is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm, from mid-May through mid-October.
Address: Şirinyer Mh., Marmaris/Muğla 48700, Turkey
Hours: Mid-May to mid-Oct: Daily 10am-5:30pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 19
Arc de Triomphe
An instantly recognizable symbol of Paris, the colossal Arc de Triomphe stands at the epicenter of Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 of the city’s busiest avenues converge. The Napoleon-commissioned monument, adorned with high-relief sculptures depicting sword-wielding soldiers and inscribed with the names of generals and battles, celebrates French military victories and remembers all those who have fought on behalf of France. The top of the arch, accessible via 284 steps, affords superb views over all of Paris.
The Basics
The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’ most visited monuments. Many travelers admire the famous landmark only from ground level, either independently or as part of a sightseeing tour. However, it’s well worth climbing to the arch’s viewing terrace at 164 feet (50 meters) to enjoy sweeping views of the city and its top sights, including Sacré-Coeur, the Eiffel Tower, the Grande Arche de la Defense, and the tree-bordered Champs-Elysees, which leads all the way down to the Louvre.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Use the pedestrian underpasses beneath Place Charles de Gaulle to reach the arch. Do not attempt to cross the roundabout—Paris’ busiest traffic circle—on foot.
- The viewing terrace is not wheelchair accessible. An elevator goes part way up the arch, but visitors must still climb 46 steps to access the top.
- Book skip-the-line tickets in advance to beat the crowds.
- Be sure to bring a camera to capture the Parisian skyline.
How to Get There
The Arc de Triomphe is located on Place Charles de Gaulle at the top of the Champs-Elysees, about a 30-minute walk from Place de la Concorde at the famous avenue’s opposite end. Metro lines 1, 2, and 6, as well as the RER A line, all connect to Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, the nearest station.
When to Get There
Visibility is best during summer, when skies are most likely to be clear. The best views can be had at dusk, when the cream-stone cityscape appears to glow gold under the light of the setting sun. Sunset is, however, also the busiest time. To avoid the crowds, go earlier in the day.
See the Flame Lighting at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Time your Arc de Triomphe visit for 6:30pm to witness the lighting of the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The solemn ceremony takes place at the base of the monument, where an unidentified World War I soldier is buried.
Address: Place Charles-de-Gaulle, France
Hours: Open daily 10am - 10:30pm
Admission: €12 per adult
From $ 14
Aqualand Costa Adeje
Part waterpark, part amusement park, Aqualand Costa Adeje is popular among families for its variety of rides and attractions. Thrill-seekers can choose from half a dozen waterslides, including a six-lane mat racer, a high-speed body slide, and a funnel slide, while the Kidzworld area features pint-sized attractions that include a wading pool and water castle. The park's giant Jacuzzi tub, heated wave pool, and lazy river offer options for relaxation that are favorites among guests of all ages.
The park's Dolphinarium, home to a pod of bottlenose dolphins, runs one of the most successful breeding and conservation programs in Europe, in which a therapy program offers aid to disabled young sea mammals and onsite biologists study dolphin acoustics between mothers and babies. Be sure to check out the dolphinarium museum to learn about the history, physiology, characteristics, and habitats of the bottlenose dolphin.
Practical Info
Aqualand is located in Tenerife near the Playa de las Americas. To get there, take TF 1 motorway (Autopista) to Junction 29, or take the free daily shuttle bus from Playa de las Americas or Los Cristianos. Height restrictions exist for some of the largest water rides.
Although Viator tours do not include this activity, dolphin swims are available for purchase at the park for an additional fee.
Address: Avenida de Austria, 15, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands 38660, Spain
Hours: Sept–June 10am–5pm; July–Aug 10am–6pm
Admission: Adult €25, child €17.50
From $ 32
Apple Museum
Found in the tangle of streets between Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square in Prague’s spectacular Staré Město (Old Town), the Apple Museum sits neatly inside the Pop Art Gallery in a revamped 12th-century townhouse. The museum opened in December 2015 and is billed as the ‘largest private collection of Apple products in the world’. The displays in this homage to all things Apple include more than 470 original Apple products, and also highlight the backstory of the legendary founders of the company, Steve Jobs, who died in 2011, and his visionary sidekick, Steve Wozniak.
From the curiously toy-like Apple Mac from 1984 through the multi-colored iPods of the early 21st century to the MacBooks introduced 2012, the development of one of the world’s biggest brands is laid out in sleek displays guaranteed to appeal to kids and adults alike. Exhibits from Steve Jobs’ life include his college yearbooks, sneakers and his distinctive black roll neck jerseys; and after walking in his footsteps through the museum, there’s also a raw vegan restaurant where his favorite dishes are on offer.
Practical Info
Open daily 10am–10pm. Admission for adults is 245 CZK; students are 190 CZK; children are 110 CZK; family tickets are 595 CZK. All profits go to charity. The museum is about a five-minute walk from the Stare Mesto in a pedestrianized area.
Address: Husova 21, Prague 1, Central Bohemian Region 110 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Daily 10am–10pm
Admission: adults 245 CZK; students 190 CZK; children 110 CZK
From $ 6
Arc de Triomf
With its signature red and white brickwork, the Arc de Triomf of Barcelona stands tall in the center of a wide boulevard as a unique piece of architecture in a creative city. Designed by Catalan architect Josep Vilaseca, it was originally meant for an exhibition entrance to the 1888 Universal Exposition, which took place at the nearby Parc de la Ciutadella. It was created with Islamic style influences in the Neo-Mudéjar style, which originated in 12th-century Iberia, and now stands in tribute as a memorial.
Various friezes in stone and tile along the sides of the arch represent advancements in technology, the arts, and agriculture. At the top of the arch are the coats of arms for 49 provinces of Spain, overseen by the coat of arms for Barcelona. Another relief is a symbol meaning "Barcelona welcomes the nations." It now marks the passage of a promenade which is pleasant for long walks. Classical in shape, it now stands as a landmark for the city of Barcelona.
Practical Info
Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf lies just north of the Parc de la Ciutadella on Passeig de Lluís Companys. The nearest Metro stop is Arc de Triomf.
Address: Passeig Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain
From $ 12
AquaDom & SEA LIFE Berlin
AquaDom & Sea Life Berlin is an interactive aquarium with more than 5,000 underwater creatures and 37 displays. Ride an elevator through the AquaDom—a massive free-standing fish tank holding 264,172 gallons (1 million liters) of saltwater—and see animals such as giant Pacific octopus, manta rays, and sharks in the aquarium’s exhibits.
The Basics
Visit Sea Life Berlin with skip-the-line tickets to save time, and see a feeding-time demonstration at the massive AquaDom tank. You can also stop by the aquarium on a hop-on, hop-off city tour or experience Berlin’s top kid-friendly destinations with a combo ticket to Sea Life Berlin along with Legoland Discovery Centre Berlin, Madame Tussauds wax museum, Little Big City, and the Berlin Dungeon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- AquaDom & Sea Life Berlin is a must-see for families with kids.
- Most visitors spend one to two hours exploring the aquarium.
- A number of restaurants and coffee shops can be found near the aquarium.
How to Get There
AquaDom & Sea Life Berlin is located in Berlin Mitte, the city’s central borough, and is easy to reach by public transit. The U-Bahn (lines 2, 5, and 8) and S-Bahn both stop at nearby Alexanderplatz station, and many buses and trams are convenient to the aquarium. The attraction’s central location makes it a good jumping-off point for visiting popular sites such as the Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor), Alexanderplatz, and Museum Island (Museumsinsel).
When to Get There
The aquarium is open daily and you can visit year-round. To avoid crowds, go on a weekday or opt for an early morning or late afternoon visit. If you would like to watch animal feeding demonstrations, check the schedule prior to your visit.
Exhibits at Sea Life Berlin
Stop by the Octopus Garden to see the giant Pacific octopus along with related species such as cuttlefish and nautilus. At the Interactive Rockpool, you can learn about animals that live in rocky coastal areas and touch creatures such as sea stars and crabs. In the Atlantic Ocean exhibit, watch sharks swim among schools of wreckfish and eagle rays.
Address: Spandauer Strasse 3, Berlin, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Apsley House (Wellington Museum)
Apsley House has long been thought of as the grandest address in London. The Georgian building hasn’t changed much since 1815, when its inhabitant—the 1st Duke of Wellington—led British troops to victory against Napoleon at Waterloo. Today the house holds the Wellington Collection, known for its paintings, sculpture, porcelain, and silver.
The Basics
Built in 1778, the Apsley House—known locally as Number One London—was originally home to Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington. Today the stately mansion, which is open to the public, is sumptuously decorated with palatial, gilded interiors. Its impressive Wellington Collection includes nearly 3,000 Spanish, Dutch, and Flemish paintings and sculptures by well-known artists such as Goya, Velázquez, Van Dyck, and Pieter Bruegel, as well as other pieces of fine art.
Entrance to the museum is included on some art-themed and comprehensive London tours. Holders of the Overseas Visitors Pass receive reduced admission, as do children aged 5 to 17 years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Apsley House is ideal for art, design, and history enthusiasts.
- Group tours are available for parties of 11 or more.
- Multimedia touchscreen guides, included with admission, are available in English, German, Spanish, and British Sign Language.
- The on-site shop offers myriad items related to the First Duke of Wellington, art, architecture, and the Battle of Waterloo.
- Limited, free parking is available on-site for disabled visitors and must be arranged in advance.
- The museum is not wheelchair accessible, as there are five steps to the front door (no ramp) and no accessible bathrooms. Once inside, there is an elevator with eight steps down to it.
How to Get There
Apsley House is located in the southeast section of Hyde Park. Parking near the park is limited, so it’s recommended to use public transport. Many buses stop near Hyde Park, and the Piccadilly line’s Hyde Park Corner tube station is about a 1-minute walk from the museum.
When to Get There
Apsley House is open year-round; check the website for current opening hours. In London’s warmer spring and summer months, you can take advantage of Hyde Park’s many picnic spots before or after a museum visit.
Wellington Arch
Located in Hyde Park, across the street from Apsley House, Wellington Arch was originally built as an entrance to Buckingham Palace. It later became a victory arch commemorating Britain’s victory against Napoleon. Visitors are treated to spectacular panoramic London views from the arch’s balconies, and there is a permanent museum on the ground level. The arch, which is open most days (check the website for hours), has an elevator and is wheelchair accessible.
Address: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA, England
From $ 90
Ara Pacis Museum (Museo dell'Ara Pacis)
Since opening its doors in 2006, the Ara Pacis Museum has caused more than its fair share of controversy, with its modernist glass and travertine façade splitting public opinion. The futuristic building, the work of architect Richard Meir, was one of Rome’s first major post-war architectural works and was built to house one of the city’s most significant ancient artworks.
Whatever your opinion of the museum itself, there’s no disputing the magnificence of its star exhibit – the Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, which dates back to 9 BC. The elaborate Roman sculpture is a gigantic marble altar towering over 35 feet (11 meters) high and built by the Emperor Augustus to symbolize peace in the Roman Empire. Today, the protected monument is preserved and displayed in its full glory, with the original structure augmented by reproductions of the panels already on display in the Villa Medici, the Vatican and the Louvre.
Practical Info
The Ara Pacis Museum is located on Lungotevere in Augusta in central Rome and is open daily from 9:30am to 7:30pm. Adult admission is €10.50.
Address: Museo dell Ara Pacis, Lungotevere in Augusta, Rome 00100, Italy
Hours: Daily 9:30am–7:30pm
Admission: €10.50
From $ 45
Aquapalace Prague
Central Europe’s biggest waterpark is 3.75 miles (six km) south of Prague and is a family-centric attraction featuring saunas, a fitness center and a spa as well as swimming pools and water rides. Vodní svět (Water World) is largely undercover and comprises four themed zones, with lap pools, lazy rivers, a coral dome and wave pools as well as rapids and kamikaze twisting tube slides for the more adventurous of families. On offer elsewhere in the park are 14 different kinds of sauna, fitness classes — from Pilates to spinning — gyms equipped with cardio zones and power plates, solariums and a raft of massage options and beauty therapy treatments. There’s a children’s corner for young kids, swimming courses for all levels of expertise, private trainers in the gym and scuba diving classes in the Diving Pit.
Restaurants and bars are scattered throughout Aquapalace and there’s even a four-star hotel for extended stays. Children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult when visiting the park; lockers are provided.
Practical Info
Practical information: Pražská 138, Prague Čestlice. Open: Water World Mon–Fri 10am–10pm, Sat–Sun 9am–10pm; Fitness Center Mon–Fri 6am–11pm, Sat–Sun 7am–11pm. Prices start at 215 CZK in Water World and 190 CZK in the Fitness Center. The free Aquabus runs hourly from Opatov metro station on Line C; otherwise take buses 328, 363 or 385 from Opatov metro station or bus 325 from Nádraží Uhříněves.
Address: Pražská 138, Prague, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic 251 01, Czech Republic
Hours: Water World Mon–Fri 10am–10pm, Sat–Sun 9am–10pm; Fitness Center Mon–Fri 6am–11pm, Sat–Sun 7am–11pm
Admission: Prices start at 215 CZK in Water World and 190 CZK in the Fitness Center
From $ 25
Arcachon
Arcachon, a popular seaside resort and bay in the Gironde department in southwest France, is fairly new, having only officially been declared the City of Arcachon by Napoleon III 150 years ago, back when it was still a minuscule fishing hamlet. Fishing still plays an important role in the town’s economy today, not only because of export but also tourism; indeed, Arcachon is said to have some of the best oysters in all of Europe, and tourists from all over the country flock to the bay in the name of gluttony and seafood.
The area is famous for its Arcachonnaise villas, which were built in the 19th century by bourgeois vacationers who believed the unique combination of salty Atlantic air and dense Landes forest air would cure their mysterious illnesses. And as is the case with many seaside resorts, Arcachon has a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of picturesque, tranquil stops, including the Thiers jetty, the Pereire beach, the bucolic Ile aux Oiseaux and the neo-Renaissance Deganne Castle, now home to a casino.
Practical Info
Arcachon is just 34 miles (55 km) west of Bordeaux, easily accessible in just under an hour’s drive via the E70 and the A660. It is also possible to travel to Arcachon by train from Paris (via the Atlantic TGV route), Bordeaux and other regional towns.
Address: Arcachon, Bordeaux, France
Hours: Daily
From $ 80
Appian Way and the Aurelian Wall
The Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) was the first and most important Imperial Roman road, stretching from Rome to Brindisi. The cobblestone road—built in the fourth century BC to transport supplies and soldiers to strategic points throughout the Roman Empire—still exists today, lined with archaeological sites and impressive ruins.
The Basics
Named for architect Appius Claudius Caecus, the Via Appia Antica was one of Rome’s main highways for centuries. As the empire began its decline in the third century and Rome experienced barbarian attacks, the Aurelian Wall was erected around the city’s seven hills for protection. This defensive wall had a number of gates, including Porta Appia (Porta San Sebastiano), which today contains a museum about the Aurelian Wall.
A guided walking or bike tour down the Appian Way from the Aurelian Wall through the Ancient Appian Way Regional Park and Caffarella Park is the perfect way to explore this historic road and the ancient sites along its route through the Roman countryside. Appian Way tours include stops at sites like the thermal baths of Caracalla, the early Christian San Callisto Catacombs, the Circus of Maxentius, the tomb of Caecilia Metella, and the ancient Roman aqueducts. You can also join a guided small-group bus tour to explore the ancient road from central Rome.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you are joining a hiking or cycling tour, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Via Appia Antica and sites along its route are all open-air, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- Some of the archaeological sites along the route require an entrance fee.
How to Get There
Metro line A has a stop at Parco Appia Antica, close to the entrance for Via Appia Park.
When to Get There
The Appian Way and its sights are almost entirely outside, so it’s best to visit in the spring and fall when the weather is mild. It takes anywhere from a few hours to an entire day to explore the route on foot or bike, so plan on setting off in the morning.
Parco Regionale della Via Appia Antica
The initial stretch of the Appian Way, just outside Rome’s city center, is part of a regional park, and many of the archaeological sites along the route are located within the park’s confines.
Address: Via Appia Antica, Italy
From $ 19
Aquarium Sea Life Paris Val D'Europe
Housed inside the huge Val D'Europe shopping mall, the Aquarium Sea Life Paris makes an easy side-trip from Disneyland Paris and with more than 350 sea creatures to marvel over, it’s both fun and educational for the whole family.
Brave a walk through the 360-degree underwater tunnel where you can come face-to-face with 13 different species of shark; spot giant stingrays, menacing piranhas and a rainbow of colorful fish swimming in the 50 tanks; or journey through the 8 themed zones, including a peek into the waters of the Seine River and Nemo's Reef. Additional highlights include the majestic Green Sea Turtles and the touch pools where you can get up close to starfish and seahorses, while you can also watch the animal feedings, join a guided tour or follow a quiz trail to keep the younger members of the family entertained.
Practical Info
The SEA LIFE Aquarium is located in the Val d’ Europe shopping mall in Marne-la-Vallee, 32 km east of Paris and can be reached by high-speed train from central Paris. The aquarium is open daily from 10am-5:30pm.
Address: 14 Cours du Danube, Marne-la-Vallée, France
Hours: Open daily from 10am-5:30pm
Admission: Adults: 17,50€; Children (3-11) 13,90€
From $ 23
Arbaer Open-Air Folk Museum (Arbaejarsafn)
Quaint old buildings have been uprooted from their original sites and rebuilt at the Árbæjarsafn or Arbaer Open-Air Folk Museum, a kind of zoo for houses, 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from the city centre. Alongside the 19th century homes are a turf-roofed church, and various stables, smithies, barns and boathouses - all very picturesque. The museum opened in 1957 - before that the place was a working farm - and the aim is to give an insight into the way Icelanders once lived.
There are summer arts-and-crafts demonstrations including traditional handcrafts, hay-making and animals to see. There is also a cafe. The farm is a great place for kids to let off steam.
Practical Info
Arbaer Museum is located just out of Reykjavik to the southeast and is easy to reach by bus 12, 19 or 22.
Address: Kistuhylur 4, Reykjavik, Iceland
Hours: Daily tours Jun - Aug, 11am - 2pm. Winter: Mon, Wed, Fri at 1pm
Admission: Adults: 600 kr, Children: Free
From $ 47
Aqualava Waterpark Relaxia
The design of Lanzarote’s Aqualava water park pays tribute to the island’s volcanic landscape with its geothermal-heated pools. The saltwater wave pool (the only on the island) gives the feel of the beach, while the smaller kids' areas are perfectly themed for play. There's a winding lazy river, as well as five waterslides.
The Basics
Aqualava water park is one of the island’s most popular spots to cool down on those hot island afternoons, especially during the summer. The cost of admission includes access to all the park’s attractions, inner tubes, umbrellas, and sunbeds, as well as facilities for showering and changing. Choose between a basic entrance ticket, or upgrade for convenient round-trip transportation from your Lanzarote hotel.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Aqualava Waterpark Relaxia is a must-visit for families traveling with kids.
- Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes.
- The water park offers wheelchair-accessible facilities, as well as showers, lockers, and free Wi-Fi.
- Leave your jewelry and accessories at home; they’re not permitted on the park’s slides.
How to Get There
Aqualava Waterpark is located in Playa Blanca on the south of Lanzarote. The park provides free transfer from Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise on select days of the week. You can also catch a public bus from Puerto del Carmen (161 or 61), Arrecife (60), Costa Teguise (01 and 03), or from within Playa Blanca (30).
When to Get There
The water park is open throughout the year, but the cooling water features are perhaps most refreshing during the summer months, when highs reach about 85°F (29°C). Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the park closes during bad weather.
Things to Do in Playa Blanca
If you’re in Playa Blanca to enjoy the water park, stick around to check out some of the town’s other attractions. You’ll find a range of restaurants, shops, and bars along the Playa Blanca boardwalk, while the port area is home to a new shopping center. Dorada and Flamingo beaches both lie within walking distance, and the stunning white coves of Papagayo are a short car ride away.
Address: C/ Gran Canaria, 26, 35580 Playa Blanca, Yaiza, Lanzarote, Spain
Hours: Daily from 10 am - 6 pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
ArcelorMittal Orbit
The ArcelorMittal Orbit, built for the 2012 London Olympics, has the distinction of being the UK’s tallest sculpture. At 375 feet (114.5 meters) high, it is also possibly the world’s tallest—and longest—tube slide. The observation decks offer visitors stunning views with visibility of up to 20 miles (32 kilometers) on a clear day.
The Basics
Built in collaboration with artists Anish Kapoor and Carsten Höller, designer Cecil Balmond, and ArcelorMittal Steel, the Orbit is composed of 2,000 tonnes of tangled red steel twisting up into the sky. Two elevators transport passengers 260 feet (80 meters) up to the indoor observation decks. Those brave enough can then descend the 583-foot-long (178-meter) slide with 12 twists through a transparent tube, culminating in a corkscrew of turns and a final drop into darkness. Alternatively, take the elevators back to the ground level or descend 455 steps accompanied by a soundscape installation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ArcelorMittal Orbit is a must for thrill-seekers and those who appreciate elevated views.
- Entrance to the Orbit is reduced for children; check the website for all concession prices.
- There are a number of cafés and restaurants within walking distance from the Orbit.
- The Orbit is accessible and offer wheelchairs to borrow on a first-come first-served basis.
How to Get There
The ArcelorMittal Orbit is located in East London, in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Take the tube from central London—it’s about a 10-minute walk from Stratford Station, on the Central and Jubilee lines—or one of various bus lines.
When to Get There
The Orbit is open daily year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. The attraction hosts seasonal events such as evening fireworks viewing throughout the year. Check the website for a schedule and opening hours.
Abseiling
If the world’s longest tunnel slide wasn’t daring enough, the Orbit also offers abseiling (aka rappelling) from 262 feet (79 meters) in the air, making it the UK’s highest free fall. Professional instructors take participants through a thorough safety training and provide all safety gear. Then the adventure begins with a steep descent surrounded by views of London’s famous skyline and landmarks.
Address: ArcelorMittal Orbit, London, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Aqua Fantasy Aquapark
Opened in June 2000, the Aqua Fantasy Aquapark near Selcuk is Turkey’s top water park, accommodating up to 5,000 guests every day. The park may be best known for its Super Combo four-in-one ride, considered by many to be one of Europe’s best designed water slides. Other popular rides include the Screamer, which provides the feeling of a vertical freefall while sliding and the Xtreme slide, where guests reach speeds up to 80 kilometers per hour. Other activities include water volleyball on an artificial beach, a wave pool with 10 different kinds of waves, an adult pool with a swim up bar and Jacuzzi, and the relaxing Blue Lagoon and Lazy Adventure River. And of course, there is a kids’ pool for the little ones.
Practical Info
The Aqua Fantasy Aquapark is located about 15 minutes southwest of Selcuk and 20 minutes north of Kusadasi. For those wishing to stay overnight, the Aqua Fantasy Hotel is adjacent to the water park. Facilities in the park include a food court, lockers and showers. Cash cannot be used within the park; visitors must load money onto a “splash card” obtained at the entrance.
Address: Ephesus Beach, Selcuk, Turkey
Hours: Varies seasonally
Admission: Adults: €30; Children 10+: €24; Ages 4-9: €17; Under 3: Free
From $ 28
Aqualand Corfu
Aqualand Corfu is the island’s biggest and most popular water park and offers themed zones catering for all ages, carefully watched over by qualified lifeguards. Stretching over an area of 130,000 sq ft (12,000 sq m) landscaped with lawns and mature maple trees, it is a family paradise of water rides and slides, lazy rivers and 15 swimming pools for a day of fun in the sun.
Toddlers up to the age of four can enjoy shallow bathing pools with water showers, playing splashy games on Fantasy Island and exploring the Caribbean Pirate Adventure Pool. There’s a dedicated family area (kids must be aged eight and over) with giant slides, Jacuzzis, a lazy river and a wave pool. Adrenaline junkies can get their kicks from six extreme water ride ranging from the spiraling Hydrotube to the hair-raising Free Fall Plus, which plunges vertically for 80 ft (24 m) into deep water.
Facilities include plenty of free sunbeds and parasols for shade and lockers to hire for a small charge of €5; there are changing rooms and showers as well as food outlets scattered throughout the park and stores selling sun lotion, rubber rings and pool toys.
Practical Info
The water park is open May–Oct daily 10am–6pm. Admission for adults is €35; children are €25 for the two-day pass. One day pass for adults is €27; seniors & children aged 5–12 are €19; aged five and younger go free. Aqualand is three miles (5 km) from Corfu Town. For public transportation, take no. 8 bus from San Rocco Square. The park can also be visited as part of a half-day shore excursion from the cruise-liner port in Corfu Town.
Address: Agios Ioannis Corfu, Agios Ioannis Parelion, Corfu Town (Kerkyra), Corfu 491 00, Greece
Hours: May–Oct daily 10am–6pm
Admission: One day pass: adults €27; seniors & children aged 5–12 €19
From $ 39
Aqua Natura
Suited for young families and with plenty of opportunities to play and relax in both the sun and shade, Aqua Natura is one of Spain’s best coastal water resorts. Its fun water activities and various pools are grouped around a large, calm lagoon at its center, which is perfect for all ages. There are also 800 meters of twisted slides (some that are multi-lane,) as well as a splash zone, water bridge, and pirate-themed water playground for smaller children. Its most massive slide, ‘La Cresta,’ reaches the highest speeds and is most suited to thrill seekers.
Aqua Natura also allows for the opportunity to interact with aquatic wildlife, offering encounters with the sea lions on site. Regardless of your thrill level, the park is a great place to cool off after time spent in the hot Spanish sun. There are also four restaurants inside serving a variety of food and drink.
Practical Info
Aqua Natura is the water park next to the Terra Natura animal park. Located in the popular Benidorm resort area, it’s a short 40 minute drive from Alicante airport to reach the parks. Aqua Natura is only open during the summer months. Admission is €29 for adults and €23.50 for children ages 12 and under. It is open daily from 10:30 am to 7 pm.
Address: Ctra. de Vidreres, Km 1,2, 17310 Lloret de Mar, Girona, Spain Foia del Verdader, 1, 03502 Benidorm, Alicante, Spain
Hours: Daily from 10:30 am to 7 pm
Admission: €29 for adults, €23.50 for children ages 12 and under
From $ 36
Aranjuez
In the 16th century the royals of Spain liked to take their holidays in Aranjuez, 29 miles (48km) from Madrid. Phillip II developed a small holiday lodge into a magnificent palace, which was given its final majestic appearance by Charles III.
The most striking features of the Palacio Real de Aranjuez (Royal Palace in Aranjuez) are the red and white façade, the Rococo staircase and the Porcelain Room which has walls lined with porcelain.
The gardens are world-famous and include the Museo de Faluas Reales (Museum of the Royal Barges); in which you can see how King Charles IV and King Ferdinand VII of Spain traveled as well as maritime instruments and paintings. The whole complex is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the nicest ways to reach the palace is on The Strawberry Train. Departing for the first time in 1851, this was only the second railway in Spain. You can ride the restored train, complete with fresh strawberries to eat, from Madrid Railway Museum to Aranjuez on weekends from May to June and September to November.
The most striking features of the Palacio Real de Aranjuez (Royal Palace in Aranjuez) are the red and white façade, the Rococo staircase and the Porcelain Room which has walls lined with porcelain.
The gardens are world-famous and include the Museo de Faluas Reales (Museum of the Royal Barges); in which you can see how King Charles IV and King Ferdinand VII of Spain traveled as well as maritime instruments and paintings. The whole complex is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the nicest ways to reach the palace is on The Strawberry Train. Departing for the first time in 1851, this was only the second railway in Spain. You can ride the restored train, complete with fresh strawberries to eat, from Madrid Railway Museum to Aranjuez on weekends from May to June and September to November.
Address: Spain
From $ 67