Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Kelowna & Okanagan Valley
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Rheinturm
Towering 234 meters over the modern Media Harbor, the futuristic Rheinturm telecommunications tower is Dusseldorf’s tallest building and most distinctive landmark. Built in 1982, the tower quickly became one of the city’s top tourist attractions, with its 172-meter high observation platform offering dramatic panoramic views along the Rhine riverfront, the nearby Old Town (Altstadt) and the sea of high-rises that form Dusseldorf’s commercial district.
High-speed elevators take visitors to the top of the tower, where there is also a glass-fronted revolving restaurant, but the views are equally mesmerizing from the outside, with the illuminated tower also serving as the world’s largest digital clock.
Practical Info
The Rheinturm is located along the waterfront of Dusseldorf’s Media Harbor and is open daily from 10am-11:30pm. Adult admission is €5.
Address: Stromstraße 20, Dusseldorf, Germany
Hours: Open daily from 10am-11.30pm
Admission: Adult: €5
From $ 80
Ribeira Market (Mercado da Ribeira)
A staple of Lisbon’s culinary scene for centuries, the Mercado da Ribeira has origins that date back to the 13th century. The market has been at its current space since 1892, a spacious open hall, topped with a large dome. In 2014, the hall was reformed in 2014 and transformed into the beloved gourmet food market that Lisboans known today.
The Mercado da Ribeira is the perfect place for foodies to sample a number of Portuguese specialties like ginja (wild cherry liquor), Portuguese wines like Port and Madeira, and pastel de nata (traditional egg tarts). Other highlights include classics like steak and fries, locally produced cheeses and cured meats, and specialty chocolates from Porto. There are also some international food stalls serving up foods like sushi, pizza and hamburgers. One of Portugal’s most famous chefs, Henrique Sá Pessoa, offers a less expensive alternative to his high-end restaurants at his stall in the Mercado da Ribeira.
Looking to experience the traditional Portuguese market? Mercado da Ribeira still holds its daily farmer’s market, with stalls selling fresh produce, fish and meat, starting at 6 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Practical Info
The Mercado da Ribeira is located at Av. 24 de Julho, 50 in Lisbon. The food stalls are open Sunday–Wednesday from 10 a.m. to midnight and Thursday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The farmer’s market is open daily from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Address: Av. 24 de Julho, 50, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Sunday–Wednesday from 10 a.m. to midnight and
Thursday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
From $ 56
Riddarholm Church (Riddarholmskyrkan)
One of the oldest buildings in Stockholm, Riddarholm Church is the traditional burial church for Swedish royalty. Originally built as a monastery, parts of the church date back to the late 13th century. It was transformed into a Protestant church after the Reformation and the congregation was eventually dissolved at the start of the 19th century. Today, it is used only for burial and commemorative purposes. Nearly every Swedish ruler from Gustavus Adolphus (1632) to Gustav V (1950) has been buried in the Riddarholm Church, as well as Magnus III (1290) and Charles VIII (1470).
The interior of the church features dozens of coats of arms of the knights of the Order of Seraphim, a tradition that dates back to the middle of the 18th century. When a knight dies, his coat of arms is hung inside the church.
Practical Info
Riddarholm Church can be reached by taking the T-bana (subway) to Gamla Stan and walking five minutes to Riddarholmen, or by taking bus 3 or 59 to Riddarhustroget. Guided tours are available during from mid-May to mid-September, daily at 11:30 a.m. They last about 45 minutes and cover everything from the early history of the church to a history of the royal family and the history of Stockholm.
Address: Riddarholmen, Stockholm, Sweden
Hours: From mid-May to mid-September, open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; from mid-September to late November, open Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed from late November to mid-May.
Admission: SEK 50 (credit card only); tour SEK 20.
From $ 70
Rheinfels Castle
The busy riverside promenade of St. Goar is lorded over by the sprawling ruins of Burg Rheinfels, once the mightiest fortress on the Rhine and a must-see. Built in 1245 by the local counts of Katzenelnbogen as a base for their toll-collecting operation, it withstood attack from 28,000 of Louis XIV's French troops in 1692, just one of the many attacks made on it. Eventually it was Napoleon and his French Revolutionary army who destroyed the place in 1797 with the help of explosives.
The castle's size and labyrinthine layout is astonishing. Not just children love exploring the gigantic vault cellar, subterranean tunnels and mine galleries, while keeping an eye and ear out for ghosts. In the only complete room of the castle there is a museum.
Practical Info
St. Goar is in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage area. It is a lovely river area worth exploring on foot, bicycle, by boat or road, dotted with castles and picturesque views. It is about 38 miles (62 km) northeast of Frankfurt-Hahn airport.
Address: St. Goar, Germany
Hours: Open daily Apr - Oct, 9am - 6pm. Nov - Mar open weekends only (weather permitting) 11am - 5pm
Admission: Adults: € 4, Children (6-14yrs): € 2
From $ 38
Reykjadalur
Some of Hengill’s best scenery can be enjoyed on a hike through Reykjadalur, nicknamed “Smoky Valley” for the steam emanating from several thermal springs in the area. From Hvergerði, a gravel trail leads hikers into the valley, and as the trail gradually ascends, the thermal waters become warmer.
The reward for the relatively easy hike is a chance to soak in a thermal river. The point where the thermal water merges with a cold river is one of the best spots, but hikers can head up or downhill to find their perfect temperature. The area has numerous signposted hiking trails, including an hour-long trail that circumnavigates Öklelduhnúkur and another that continues all the way to Þingvallavatn.
Practical Info
The trail begins just 40 minutes outside Reykjavik in the town of Hvergerði.
Address: Reykjavik, Hveragerði, Iceland
From $ 135
Rila Monastery
There’s a reason why the Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest religious structure, is the most visited site in the country. Its cobblestone courtyard, winding balconies, picturesque mountain views and brightly colored frescos transport travelers to a place that is almost otherworldly. Nearly 1 million people find their way to this treasured destination every year.
Travelers can explore the cloisters, farming buildings and church. The museum, which offers an in-depth look at the monastery’s history and function, also showcases hand-woven national costumes donated from neighboring towns are on display. The nearby cave of St. Ivan of Rila continues to rank among the most popular stops on a tour of Rila Monastery. According to tradition, St. Ivan of Rila, the hermit who founded the monastery, lived in this cave while his students built what would eventually become Bulgaria’s most famous spiritual center.
Practical Info
Travelers can take the E79 International Route between Sofia and Kulata to the monastery. It’s located about 25 kilometers from Kocherinovo. Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders, knees and elbows in order to tour the grounds.
Address: Kyustendil, Bulgaria
From $ 10
Rick's Caf e
High on the cliffs outside Negril, Rick’s Cafe is one of Jamaica’s most enduring institutions. Negril was a sleepy fishing village when Rick’s opened in 1974, and travelers and locals alike still make a pilgrimage to the restaurant and bar for strong cocktails, tasty Jamaican dishes, death-defying cliff divers, and sunset viewing parties.
The Basics
Outside on the expansive cliffside patio, watch in awe as local professional cliff divers and courageous tourists leap some 30 feet (9 meters) into the deep sea waters below. Dining at the restaurant is semiformal, with the chef making authentic, mouth-watering Jamaican dishes like ackee and salt fish, callaloo, oxtail and butter beans, and curry goat.
You can experience Rick’s Cafe on your own, or with a private or group half-day or full-day tour that leaves from Montego Bay, Negril, or Ocho Rios. Tours incorporate the highlights of whichever area you choose, and many also feature fun activities like a catamaran cruise to the famous Negril Cliffs, stops at the best snorkeling spots, scenic coastal drives, and swimming and relaxing at postcard-pretty beaches along the way. Most tours include round-trip transportation from your hotel, gear rental, and some food and drink.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Rick’s Cafe is a popular stop with first-time visitors to the area, especially at sunset. Families with small children are welcome, though mind them closely around the cliffs area.
- Remember to bring your swimwear, sunscreen, towel, and camera for sunsets and cliff jumps.
- There are reports of travelers sustaining serious injuries from jumping off the cliffs. Dive at your own risk.
- Rick’s Cafe is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Rick’s Cafe is west of central Negril along West End Road, easily accessible by taxi or shuttle bus from many Negril hotels.
When to Get There
Rick’s Cafe is open from 12pm to 10pm daily year-round. Nightly live music and sunset parties get going around 5:30pm. During the off-season (May through November) there are smaller crowds here and throughout the island.
Seven Miles of Heaven
Chances are if you’ve seen postcards of Jamaica, you’ve gazed upon the creamy white sands of Seven Mile Beach. Along the coast next to Rick’s Cafe, this stretch is a popular destination, not only for its stunning beauty but also for activities. At the beach you can snorkel the reefs, play volleyball, kayak, take a glass-bottom boat ride, or go for a horseback ride in the surf.
Address: West End Road, Negril, Jamaica
Hours: Open daily 12pm - 10pm
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Rijksmuseum
Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum is the largest and most visited art museum in the Netherlands. Its collection, which ranks among the world’s finest, includes nearly 8,000 pieces spread over 80 galleries. Some of the Rijksmuseum’s most revered works are 15th- to 19th-century paintings by Flemish and Dutch masters, including Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. In addition to the astounding eight centuries of Dutch art and history, the museum has extensive outdoor gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The Basics
No surprise, this stellar national museum gets crowded. Consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket, which lets you head right inside. To maximize your experience of the Rijksmuseum, visit with a licensed art historian, either as a private guide or on a group tour. Or combine a canal cruise with a skip-the-line ticket, allowing you to see the museum on your own schedule.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allow at least a half-day for your visit, although even in four hours you’ll be able to see only a fraction of the Rijksmuseum’s huge collection.
- You do not need a ticket to visit the gardens, shop, or café, all of which are open daily from 9am to 6pm.
- The museum has free Wi-Fi.
- Flash photography, selfie sticks, and videos with lights are not allowed.
How to Get There
The Rijksmuseum is located in Amsterdam South on the Museumplein (“Museum Square”), at Stadhouderskade and Museumstrasse. It is easily accessible via tram to Hobbemastraat. Nearby attractions include the Van Gogh Museum, the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, and the Concertgebouw. The Red Light District is also within walking distance.
When to Get There
The museum is open 365 days a year, with the busiest months being April, May, and August. During the museum’s peak hours—10am to 3pm—the estimated wait time at the ticket office is approximately 20 to 30 minutes, so it’s best to book a skip-the-line ticket. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
The Rijksmuseum’s Notable Works
The Dutch Golden Age in Holland was a time of prolific art and powerful commerce, and some of the most famous paintings on display at the Rijksmuseum include works from this time period. Be sure to see Rembrandt's “Nightwatch” (1650), showing the militia led by Frans Banning Cocq. Other featured 17th-century Flemish and Dutch masters include Jan Vermeer (“The Milkmaid,” “Woman in Blue Reading a Letter”), Frans Hals (“The Merry Drinker”), and Jan Steen (“The Merry Family”). Beyond the celebrated paintings, other notable galleries include Sculpture and Applied Art (Delftware, dollhouses, porcelain, furniture), Dutch History, and Asiatic Art in the Asian Pavilion, which includes the famous 12th-century bronze statue of a dancing Shiva.
Address: Museumstraat 1, 1070 DN, Amsterdam, l, Netherlands
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm. Open year-round.
Admission: Adults: € 17.50, Children (18 and under): Free
From $ 17
Reykjanes Peninsula
Jutting out into the ocean just south of Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula is known for its otherworldly volcanic and geothermal landscapes. A UNESCO Global Geopark, the peninsula is home to craters, caves, dramatic fissures, bird-filled sea cliffs, lava fields, and black-sand beaches, as well as the popular Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.
The Basics
Almost all visitors arriving in Iceland by air touch down at Keflavík International Airport, which is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Most new arrivals head straight for hotels in Reykjavik, though many return to the peninsula to visit the famous Blue Lagoon spa. Those who want to explore the peninsula more thoroughly can do so during organized tours from Reykjavik, which make stops at sites including the Krýsuvík and Gunnuhver geothermal areas, Krísuvíkurbjarg sea cliffs, the historic Reykjanes lighthouse, the Bridge Between Continents, the Icelandic Museum of Rock ’n’ Roll, or the fishing towns of Grindavík, Sandgerði, and Garður.
During the summer months, ATV quad tours allow guests to explore the peninsula in the eerie light of the midnight sun. Helicopter flights from Reykjavik show the strange landscapes, from crater lakes to bubbling mud pools, from on high.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Reykjanes Peninsula is a must-visit for scenery-seekers, photography enthusiasts, and outdoors lovers.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm layers.
- Some sites on the peninsula, including the Blue Lagoon, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
From Reykjavik, visitors can drive through the town of Hafnarfjörður and take Route 41, which leads along the north shore of the peninsula. Driving from downtown Reykjavik should take around 40 minutes. Travelers without access to a car can go by organized tour.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is from May until early September, when milder temperatures and longer days allow for more outdoor exploration. Summer is also the best time to see puffins and other seabirds, as well as for whale-watching, while the winter months are best for Northern Lights viewing.
The Bridge Between Continents
The peninsula sits on top of the mid-Atlantic ridge, which separates the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. At Sandvik on the Reykjanes Peninsula, a small footbridge known as the Bridge Between Continents connects the two landmasses, spanning a fissure created by the drifting tectonic plates.
Address: Iceland
From $ 83
Revolution Square (Ploshchad Revolyutsii)
The vast, open spaces of Revolution Square lie just north of Moscow’s fabled Red Square in the Tverskoy District and the two are connected by the twin spires of the Resurrection Gate, which was first built in 1535 and restored in 1945 after the end of World War II. Revolution Square is so-named thanks to its role as a gathering place during Russia’s socialist revolution in 1917 and in recent times has once more been the hub of dissension under the rule of Putin; however visitors are more likely to find it full of market stalls selling souvenirs than protesting crowds.
In a pedestrianized public square surrounded with monumental pre-war architecture, the standout building is the vast, red-brick edifice of Moscow City Hall. Built in Russian Revivalist style in 1890, this was originally home of the ruling Duma, which was disbanded after the Revolution in 1917. Post-WWII, it became the Lenin Museum but now its lavish apartments host an exhibition dedicated to Napoleon.
Other fine constructions around Revolution Square include themajestic façade of the Hotel Metropol, completed in 1907 and one of the finest Art Deco buildings in the city. Ploshchad Revolyutsii metro station is the most elegant metro station in Moscow, liberally adorned with colonnades and bronze sculptures by Matvey Manizer.
Practical Info
Three metro stations serve Revolution Square: Teatralnaya, Okhotny Ryad and Ploshchad Revolyutsii. It adjoins Red Square, the beating heart of the city.
Address: Ploshchad' Revolyutsii, Moscow, Russia
From $ 31
Rhine Falls
At Rhine Falls, sheets of white water tumble from a height of 75 feet (23 meters) across a 492-foot-wide (150-meter-wide) rock ledge. Created by the movement of the Earth’s crust about 15,000 years ago, this natural wonder is among Europe’s biggest waterfalls. The riverbanks near it are laced with walking and biking trails.
The Basics
Rhine Falls is a popular excursion for visitors based in the Swiss city of Zurich. Coach and train tours often stop at additional sights, such as Laufen Castle (Schloss Laufen) and the medieval Swiss town of Schaffhausen. Some longer tours even cross the German border and enter the Black Forest region. Day tours departing from Basel, Lucerne, and Munich often combine the falls with tours of Zurich and the medieval-era town of Stein am Rhein.
Some Rhine Falls tours include boat trips along the Rhine River to the rock in the middle of the falls. Another way to experience the falls is from riverside trails and lookouts, such as the Känzeli viewing platform, which will put you close enough to hear the roar and sometimes even feel the spray.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be prepared to get wet, especially if you elect to take a boat ride.
- Wear sturdy shoes so you can comfortably explore the scenic riverside trails.
- The falls are accessible to wheelchair users via the Neuhausen am Rheinfall entrance on the north side. Wheelchair users can drive right down to the Rhine Falls basin, and an elevator provides access to the boat landing.
How to Get There
Rhine Falls is situated near Switzerland’s border with Germany. Ride the train to either Neuhausen am Rheinfall on the north side of the falls or to Schloss Laufen am Rheinfall on the south side of the falls. From Zurich, the train ride takes 45–60 minutes. It’s possible to walk between the two sides via a path on the railway bridge.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is during summer, when the volume of water is at its peak and the full power and ferocity of the falls can be seen during boat tours. Summer is also peak visitor season. Come on a weekday or early in the morning to escape the crowds.
Things to Do Nearby
If you have time to spare during your visit, wander the historical center of the town of Schaffhausen, upriver from the falls. Surrounded by vineyards, Schaffhausen is known for its pedestrianized old town, where medieval buildings with pastel paint jobs abound. Also nearby is the medieval-era Laufen Castle, which—thanks to its elevated riverside setting—offers unobstructed views of the falls.
Address: Rheinfallquai, Neuhausen am Rheinfall, Switzerland
From $ 55
Richard's Castle
Perhaps one of Kiev’s most beloved royal structures in Kiev, Richard’s Castle was constructed as an homage to the 12th century English king and leader of the Third Crusade who represents bravery, chivalry and honor. The neo-Gothic-style of architecture is a nod to another nearly identical building in St Petersburg. According to local folklore, the architectural plans may have been stolen by the castle’s contractor, Dmitry Orlov.
Travelers who venture to this fabled site will likely learn that the building’s mystery doesn’t end with its construction. That’s because it’s rumored to be a haunted. Since 1912 residents have called Richard’s Castle the “Haunted House” since the sounds of ghosts crying are said to still be heard here at night.
Practical Info
The castle is located at 15 Andriyivsky Uzviz, a few hundred yards from the Church of St Andrew.
Address: 15 Andriyivsky Uzviz, Kiev, Ukraine
From $ 40
Richmond Great House
Step back in time to Tobago’s colonial plantation era at the Richmond Great House, one of the oldest surviving plantation houses on the island. The original plantation dates back to 1766, and it fell into various states of disrepair over the intervening centuries. Today the restored estate house has an international art collection, with ornate wooden and brass from Africa and Asia. The house sits proudly atop a hill surrounded by fruit trees, offering enviable views of the surrounding jungle and the whitecaps of the windswept Atlantic.
Practical Info
The Richmond Great House sits along the Windward Road about halfway between Scarborough and Speyside. It’s about a 20-minute drive from either direction.
Address: Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
From $ 110
Rhyolite
Rhyolite was once a booming gold rush town in Nevada, but today it's a ghost town – and, consequently, a tourist attraction.
The town grew almost overnight to be one of the largest settlements after gold was discovered nearby in 1904. By 1911, that mine was closed, and in 1916 when power was shut off in the town some of the buildings were moved or simply torn down. What remains has become an incredibly popular ghost town for tourists to visit and photograph.
All but one of the buildings in Rhyolite are in a serious state of disrepair – the exception was a house renovated in 1925 as a movie set. Buildings that are left include a schoolhouse, a jail, a train station, a barn, and a train caboose that used to be a gas station.
Practical Info
Rhyolite is roughly 120 miles from Las Vegas, and it's near the border of Death Valley National Park.
Address: Rhyolite, Nevada, USA, USA
From $ 215
Rhuddlan Castle
Rhuddlan Castle was built by King Edward I in the late 13th century as one of his iron ring of fortresses designed to control the Welsh. It is located in northern Wales just a few miles from the town of Rhyl on the coast. The River Clwyd was diverted into a canal in order to connect the castle to the sea almost three miles away, and remains of the river gate can still be seen today along the outer ring of walls. The castle was built with a concentric walls within walls design and has a twin towered gatehouse on the western side.
The main entrance is at the northwestern end of the dry moat. Though much of the castle is in ruins today, you can still see pieces of the foundations of the great hall, kitchens, private apartments, and a chapel. In the outer sections, there are few remains of the granary, stables, a smithy, the treasury, and a goldsmith's workshop. A modern set of stairs has been added to allow visitors to climb the castle walls and get a better view of the castle and surrounding areas.
Practical Info
Rhuddlan Castle is located 67 miles from Manchester and can be reached using routes M56 and A55, or by train and bus. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm April through October. The castle is closed during the winter. Admission is 3.20 pounds.
Address: Hylas Ln, Rhuddlan, Wales
Hours: Open 10am to 5pm April through October
Admission: £3.20
From $ 1,298
Rheinuferpromenade
With its two-tier walkways tracing the scenic Rhine waterfront and dotted with benches, grassy picnic areas and food vendors, walking the Rheinuferpromenade (Rhine River promenade) not only offers a tranquil retreat from the busy city center, but it also links many of Dusseldorf’s top attractions.
Start your walk beneath the Burgplatz castle tower, then follow the riverside paths through Dusseldorf Old Town, passing the Old Harbor (Alter Hafen); the Marketplatz, home to the historic City Hall (Rathaus) and the City Museum (Stadt Museum), before reaching the grassy Rheinpark, where you can look out over the striking waterfront of the nearby Media Harbor. As well as being popular with joggers, cyclists and roller-bladers, the promenade also hosts a number of seasonal events, including an open-air cinema, exhibitions and markets.
Practical Info
The Rheinuferpromenade runs along the eastern bank of the Rhine River in Dusseldorf Old Town, from the Media Harbor to the Burgplatz.
Address: Dusseldorf, Germany
From $ 82
Reykjavik Cruise Port
Reykjavik’s cruise port serves as the gateway not only to the city itself but also to the rugged natural wonders of Iceland, from the Blue Lagoon and the Gullfoss waterfall to the Strokkur geyser. The port puts passengers within easy reach of Reykjavik, the Westfjords, and the western, southern, and northwestern regions of Iceland.
The Basics
Ships arriving in Reykjavik cruise port dock at one of two locations. Smaller boats arrive in the central Old Harbor in the heart of the city, while most larger cruise ships dock at Skarfabakki cruise dock, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the center of Reykjavik.
Visitors can choose shorter Reykjavik sightseeing tours, combination excursions that typically include the Blue Lagoon, or the Golden Circle—a sightseeing route that encompasses Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Whale-watching and puffin-viewing cruises are also available, as are Northern Lights shore excursions between September and March.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most Reykjavik shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at the cruise port.
- Shore excursions range in duration from hour-long boat trips and tours of Reykjavik to 6-hour Golden Circle tours.
- Choose a private tour for a customized itinerary that ticks off all the must-see sights on your list.
How to Get to Reykjavik From the Reykjavik Cruise Port
From Skarfabakki cruise dock, it’s just a 10-minute drive into the city. Free shuttle buses are usually available to carry passengers to the city center. Taxis are also readily available at the dock, while organized shore excursions typically include pickup from the port.
Port Information
Tourist information and restrooms are available at the port, while ATMs and currency exchange desks are located in the city center. Once you’re in the city proper, most attractions are within easy walking distance.
Address: Harbour Building, Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavik 101, Iceland
From $ 38
Reynisfjara Beach
A place of stark, wild beauty, this black-sand beach on the south coast is one of Iceland’s most photogenic locations. Here, roaring Atlantic waves batter the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, the black pebble shoreline, and the pyramid-like cliff of basalt columns known as Garðar, where puffins and guillemots can be seen.
The Basics
Reynisfjara Beach is a common stop-off on South Iceland day tours from Reykjavik. Organized day tours typically combine a visit to Reynisfjara with trips to other nearby destinations, such as Skaftafell National Park, Sólheimajökull glacier, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and Skógafoss waterfall.
Multi-day tours from the capital typically combine south shore attractions with sights around the Reykjanes Peninsula, Golden Circle, Borgarfjörður valley, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its striking landscape, this black beach is a must for photography enthusiasts.
- The waves here can be treacherous; keep your distance from the shore.
- The uneven, stone-littered surface of the beach makes it unsuitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Reynisfjara Beach is situated on Iceland’s south coast near the town of Vík. The beach is about 112 miles (180 kilometers) from Reykjavik and can be reached via the Ring Road (Route 1) and Route 215. Driving from Reykjavik takes about 2.5 hours. The nearby Dyrhólaey promontory, accessible via Routes 1 and 218, also offers striking views of the beach. If you don’t have access to a car, it’s best to go as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
Reynisfjara Beach is recognized for its dramatic beauty. Summer is perhaps the best time to come here, with long, lingering sunsets and sunrises providing ideal lighting conditions for photographers. This is also the best time to view birds in the nearby cliffs. Don’t expect to sunbathe, even in summer, as winds are strong here year-round.
Reynisfjara Beach on the Big Screen
Due to its unusual appearance, Reynisfjara Beach has been used as a filming location for Hollywood movies and hit TV series. In Game of Thrones, it served as the beach at Eastwatch-by-the-Sea in season seven. It was also used for scenes in Darren Aronofsky’s 2014 religious epic Noah and in Star Trek: Into Darkness.
Address: Vik, South Iceland, Iceland
From $ 89
Ria Formosa Natural Park
Located at the southernmost tip of Portugal’s Algarve, Ria Formosa Natural Park (Parque Natural da Ria Formosa) is a scenic swirl of freshwater lagoons, sandy islands, and lush salt marshlands. The park hugs the coast between Manta Rota and Vale do Lobo, and is best known for its varied topography and diverse bird life.
The Basics
Ria Formosa Natural Park is an ideal day trip from nearby Faro. With its scattered islands and aquatic landscape, the park is best experienced by boat—whether you choose to join a boat tour or hop on a ferry to explore at your own pace. There are various options for Ria Formosa boat tours, including bird-watching cruises aboard a traditional painted boat (saveiro), bike tours through the park’s many coastal trails, and catamaran cruises that visit several islands in one day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ria Formosa is a must-see for nature lovers.
- The park is a prime destination for bird-watching—look out for flamingoes, wigeon, black-tailed godwit, heron, and the rare purple swamphen.
- The Ria Formosa visitor center is located at Quinta de Marim and offers information and maps of the park’s islands and nature trails.
- Shade is limited in the park, so be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen.
How to Get There
Ria Formosa Natural Park is located near Olhão on Portugal’s southern coast. The closest international airport is in Faro, which is a 20-minute drive from the Ria Formosa visitor center. Ferries to the park’s islands run from Faro, Olhão, and Tavira.
When to Get There
Summer (June through September) is the most popular time to visit Ria Formosa, when ferries run frequently and the weather is typically warm and sunny. The park’s tiny islands can get crowded during July and August, so set sail early if you want the beach to yourself. Ferries are much less frequent in winter and sometimes stop completely, so during this season you may need to charter a small boat.
The Islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park
Five barrier islands make up Ria Formosa Natural Park, and each has its own character. Ilha de Armona is known for its sandy beaches, Ilha da Culatra for its lively fishing villages and Portuguese Water Dogs, and Ilha da Farol for its landmark lighthouse. Remote Ilha da Deserta is a good place to escape crowds, while Ilha de Tavira is ideal for nature walks or bike rides, with easy-to-follow trails linking the villages.
Address: Luz de Tavira, Portugal
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Riga Castle
Standing on the banks of the Daugava River is Riga Castle, the palatial official residence of the President of Latvia. Built in the early 14th century, it is one of the most resilient icons of Latvian heritage. At various points in its 700-year history, the castle has been under Polish, Swedish, and Soviet control, and has undergone an accumulative century of constant construction. Today, it is open to the public as home to the Latvian Art Museum and the National History Museum of Latvia.
The medieval castle contains four stories and a rectangular courtyard, with four rectangular towers on its corners and two rounded towers added during the 15th century. It is one of the oldest medieval castles in Latvia, and reflects different periods of history in its interior.
Practical Info
Riga Castle is located in the center of Riga near the old city, within easy walking distance from many tourist hotels.
Address: Riga LV-1050, Latvia
From $ 35