Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Niagara Falls & Around
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Chan See Shu Yuen Temple
Chan See Shu Yuen Temple sits on Jalan Petaling in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, and is one of the largest and oldest Buddhist temples in Malaysia. Built at the turn of the 20th century, this elaborate temple makes an impact upon first sight, with its intricately carved roof and terracotta friezes depicting mythological Chinese scenes. Inside are colorful paintings, wood carvings, and ceramic lamps. The interior of the main hall features pillars adorned with scenes of warriors battling lions, dragons, and other mythical creatures. Behind a glass wall, there are statues of the temple's three main deities, and above these, a mural of a bright golden sun.
Most tours of Kuala Lumpur include a trip to the city’s vibrant Chinatown, situated around Jalan Petaling. Choose from a range of options, including a half- or full-day walking tour of the city, with lunch and round-trip transportation.
Insider’s Tip: While you’re in the area, combine your visit to Chan See Shu Yuen with another of the city’s elaborate and iconic temples, such as the Hindu Sri Mahamariamman Temple, located in the neighboring street.
Practical Info
The Chan See Shu Yuen Temple is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown. You can reach the attraction via train, alighting at Pasar Seni LRT station. The temple is open 8am to 6pm daily.
Address: 72 Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur 50000, Malaysia
Hours: 8am–6pm
From $ 20
Chamarel Waterfall
Mauritius is a country rich with pristine beaches, diverse cultures and colonial charm, and if that isn't enough, it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world. Chamarel Waterfall, located in the southwest reaches of the island, is the nation’s highest waterfall. Its thundering waters plunge some 300 feet (100 meters) into crystal clear pools, and travelers say a trip to the top of this scenic spot proves one of the best photo opportunities in the country. Visitors can hire a car to navigate the lush landscape that surrounds the falls. It’s then a relatively easy walk to the top—complete with stairs—where travelers can see for themselves what Mark Twain once called “paradise.”
Practical Info
The falls are spectacular any time of year, but travelers looking to catch Chamarel at its best should visit between December and April, when heavy rains cause water levels to rise.
Address: Mauritius
From $ 75
Changdeokgung Palace (Changdeok Palace)
The star of Seoul’s five Joseon Dynasty palaces, Changdeokgung Palace (Changdeok Palace) was built by King Taejong in 1405 and designed to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Today, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for its ornate royal residence buildings and extensive tree-filled gardens.
The Basics
As a well-preserved example of ancient Korean architecture, Changdeokgung Palace provides insight into the country’s history, culture, and values. The site can only be visted by guided tour—explore the complex, which was designed in accordance to Confucian pungsu principles; admire the colorful palace interior; and stroll past terraced lawns, flowering trees, and serene pavilions in the Huwon Secret Garden (separate ticket required).
Many city tours include a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, whether you want to explore Seoul on foot, by bike, or by bus. Some cultural tours include a stop at the palace along with historic sites such as Jongmyo Shrine, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, or Gyeongbokgung Palace. Private and small-group tours are available for a personalized experience, and it’s also possible to visit the palace independently on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Changdeokgung Palace is a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.
- Palace visits are by organized tour only, and separate tickets are required for the Huwon Secret Garden. Several English-language tour options are available throughout the day.
- Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the sprawling palace and gardens.
- Visitor facilities include onsite parking and restrooms.
- Wheelchair and stroller rentals are available.
How to Get There
Changdeokgung Palace is set in the Jongno-gu area of Seoul. It’s possible to get there via guided tour, taxi, or public transportation. To arrive by subway, take Line 3 to Anguk Station. From there, the palace is roughly five minutes away on foot.
When to Get There
The Korean palace is open year-round and closed Mondays. The secret garden is especially beautiful in fall, when the trees’ leaves turn shades of gold and red. In late June, the lotus pond is surrounded by colorful flowers.
The Pungsu-Jiri Principle of Korean Palaces
Like other Joseon palaces, a stream runs in front of and a mountain sits behind the buildings of Changdeokgung Palace for good pungsu-jiri—the Korean version of Chinese feng shui. This concept layers spiritual importance on the topography of land, water, and mountains, and has been an important aspect of Korean architecture for more than 1,000 years.
Address: South Korea
From $ 18
Chania Old Town
Located on Crete’s northern coast and framed by a backdrop of looming mountains, the history port city of Chania is one of the island’s most picturesque destinations. Chania’s Old Town is its greatest draw, with its labyrinth of cobblestone lanes, scenic seafront promenade, and beautifully preserved Venetian, Turkish, and Jewish quarters.
The Basics
The best way to explore Chania Old Town is on foot; take a guided walking tour to admire the historic architecture and immerse yourself in local life. For a more personalized experience, opt for a small-group or private tour. Or, combine a sightseeing excursion with a food and wine tasting tour, and sample Mediterranean specialties such as mezedes (appetizers) and raki (a traditional drink).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets.
- Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available in the Old Town district.
- Chania is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to plan your route in advance as the cobblestone lanes can be a challenge for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Chania is located on Crete’s northern coast, just west of Heraklion. A ferry runs daily between Chania and the Piraeus port in Athens. You can also travel by plane and arrive at Chania International Airport, located nine miles from the city center.
When to Get There
Summer is the most popular time to visit, and the city can get crowded during this time. Visiting during low season means fewer crowds and the possibility of cheaper prices, but many attractions and restaurants close during the winter months.
What to See in Chania Old Town
Bars and restaurants line the waterfront alongside attractions such as the bubble-shaped Mosque of Hassan Pasha and the Venetian Great Arsenal with its brightly painted replica Minoan boat, built for the Athens Olympics in 2004. The district is surrounded by remnants of old Venetian fortifications, and a maze of narrow streets stretch inland from the Venetian harbour, filled with handicraft shops, cafés, and historic holy sites such as the striking Etz Hayyim Synagogue. Nearby, 1821 Square (Platia 1821) is the main hub of Chania Old Town, home to the Greek Orthodox chapel of St Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos), as well as a number of bars and restaurants that spring to life in the evening hours.
Address: Chania, Greece
From $ 81
Certosa di San Martino
Once a monastery and now a remarkable museum, the Certosa di San Martino looks over the city of Naples from high above the hill on which it is perched. The impressive structure dates back to the 14th century, when it was first built as a Carthusian monastery. It was expanded in the 16th century, abandoned in the 19th century, and evolved into the museum it is today. The Certosa di San Martino has one of the most celebrated Nativity scenes in the world on display, as well as Bourbon era and Spanish artifacts.
The interior is adorned with frescoes and some of the best Neapolitan art in the world. You’ll find works of Massimo Stanzione, Giuseppe de Ribera, and Battista Caracciolo, among others. Have a look at the intricate mosaic floors, marble inlays, and wood carvings as well.
Tours typically will include viewings of the monastery, monk’s cemetery, cloisters, and church alongside the art. The Be sure to look around at the panoramic views you’ll have of the city and the bay from the top of the hill.
Practical Info
The church and museum is open every day except Wednesday, from 8:30 act o 7:30 pm. To get there, take metro line 1 to Piazza Vanvitelli then bus V1 (or a 15 minute walk.) Another landmark of the city, the Sant'Elmo Castle, is nearby and is also worth a visit.
Address: Largo S. Martino, 5, Naples 80129, Italy
Hours: Open Thurs-Tues 8:30am-7:30pm
Admission: €6
From $ 11
Chain Bridge (Sz echenyi Lanchid)
Budapest’s Chain Bridge was the city’s first – and is still its most famous – crossing of the Danube, connecting Baroque Buda on the western river bank with the wide boulevards of Pest on the east. Opened in 1849, the bridge is 375 meters long and 16 meters wide; it is made of made of stone slabs and suspended in place by two massive linked iron chains. Originally a toll bridge, it was designed by English engineer Alan Clark, who also had a hand in Hammersmith Bridge across the River Thames in London. The stone lions guarding both ends of the Chain Bridge were carved by János Marschalkó and added in 1852.
From the Buda side of the Chain Bridge a road tunnel leads northwards underneath Castle Hill; as the bridge united the east and west sides of the city it was indirectly responsible for Budapest’s rapid flowering as a major metropolis in the late 19th century. Continuing to play a large part in the city’s history, the bridge was blown up by the Nazis in World War II to halt the progress of Russian troops across the Danube. It was one of the first structures in Budapest to be rebuilt after the war and today it remains a potent symbol of the city and Hungary’s independence; the bridge was the scene of fierce demonstrations during the 1989 protests against Communist occupation. Walking across it at night gives views of Buda Castle and Parliament House gloriously floodlit across the river.
Practical Info
Open 24/7, the Chain Bridge is open to both cars and pedestrians.
Address: Budapest, Hungary
From $ 17
Changi Beach
At approximately two miles (3.3 km) long, Changi Beach is a gorgeous stretch of beach that is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. It’s one of the oldest coastal parks in Singapore and has managed to retain a laid-back feel that is refreshing in the hustle and bustle of this very modern city. From the beach you can see Palau Ubin, one of the few undeveloped places left in the country.
From barbecuing on the beach to jogging or cycling on the wide recreation path, this stretch of white sand is a popular place to gather on the weekends to catch up with friends or simply enjoy the sunrise or the sunset. Along with the recreational activities, Changi Beach is also a location of interest for wildlife lovers. Several types of seahorses and pipefish are monitored in the waters off of Changi Beach and many different species of birds have been spotted from the land. Of course, there are also the mechanical birds that are easily spotted: Changi International Airport is not far from the beach and airplane spotting is another popular activity on the beach.
In the midst of the sun and sand on Changi Beach, though, there is a darker history. During World War II the Japanese invaded Singapore and Changi Beach was the location for the execution of POWs. Some visitors report hearing cries, screams and other unsettling occurrences, making Changi Beach one of most haunted places in Asia. However, most people visit this serene stretch of sand without any knowledge of its dark past.
Practical Info
You can reach Changi Beach by taking the MRT to the SAF Ferry Terminal. From there it's a 20-minute walk along the beach to Carpark 7 at the Changi Ferry Terminal. Or, Changi Beach is also served by SBS Transit bus services at several bus stops along its length. Alternately, take the bus to Changi Village and it’s a five minutes of walk across the pedestrian footbridge to the park.
Address: Nicoll Dr, 498991, Singapore
From $ 44
Cerro Santa Lucia
Cerro Santa Lucia is one of two hills that overlook Santiago, where in 1541 Pedro de Valdivia founded the city long before Chile existed as an independent country. At the time, the hill was called Huelén by the indigenous people; a nearby street (by metro Salvador) still bears that name.
The hill rises about 230 feet over the surrounding part of the city, and there are excellent views of downtown from several terraces up there. Cerro Santa Lucia has three main constructions: the main entrance on the Alameda, with its wide, curving staircase, fronted by a fountain and backed by a yellow mansion; the fort at the top from which the best views of downtown can be seen; and the Castillo Hidalgo, which often hosts large international events.
There are also gardens and the Pedro de Valdivia Plaza, which has its own fountains and colorful tiled benches with Moorish influence. The top of the hill can be reached via the main entrance, as well as by way of the pedestrian access at the corner of José Miguel de la Barra and Victoria Subercaseaux, up a flight of stairs. There is also an elevator on the west side of the hill, where the pedestrian street Huerfanos ends, but this route only takes visitors halfway to the top.
Visitors to the hill would be hard-pressed to miss the cannon-firing, which takes place every day at noon and can be heard throughout many parts of downtown. This activity was suspended for several months after the 2010 earthquake, but it is back, routinely surprising those wandering the area.
Practical Info
The two metro stations closest to Cerro Santa Lucia are Santa Lucia and Bellas Artes. Visitors can easily walk over the hill by going up the main entrance from the Santa Lucia side and exiting down on the Bellas Artes side, or vice versa. Many people opt to tack on a trip up the hill to their time spent in the Lastarria neighborhood, Parque Forestal or both. Good shoes are recommended, as some of the upper staircases are uneven and most of the hill is cobblestoned.
Address: Santiago, Chile
From $ 24
Cervejaria Bohemia
There’s a lot more to Cervejaria Bohemia than simply “the best beer in Brazil.” Sure, the beer that’s made at this Petrópolis brewery is a local Brazilian favorite, but even visitors who aren’t beer aficionados can enjoy this informative experience. Unlike any other brewery in Latin America—or for that matter, most of the world—this tech-enabled, self-guided tour takes visitors down a “walkway of beer” as they learn the history of not only Bohemia, but beer making across the globe.
Here in this Petrópolis shrine to beer, every step of the brewing process is interactively explained—where you can touch, hear, see, and smell the process of beer being made. At the end of the tour, adults are offered some cold samples of freshly brewed Bohemia beer, and many of the company’s specialty beers are only available at the brewery. Once finished with the tour, grab a drink at the adjoining restaurant and popular Bohemia bar, where in addition to the fun and modern setting, it’s Brazil’s only place where you can order a pint of Bohemia beer on draft.
Practical Info
Cervejaria Bohemia is open from 1-4:30pm on Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-4:30pm on Friday, and 10am-6:30pm on weekends. Adult admission is $8.50.
Address: Rua Alfredo Pacha, 166, Petrópolis, RJ, Brazil 25685-210, Brazil
Admission: $8.50
From $ 11
Chamaeleon Theater
The Chameleon (or Chamäleon in German) Theater was once a ballroom dating back to 1906. It is located in the Hackesche Höfe, a historic area of courtyards in Berlin's Mitte district and reopened about 10 years ago as a modern cabaret theater. Artists from around the world perform choreographed shows here, and since they’re generally displays of dancing and body language, there is no need to worry about language barriers.
The Chameleon Theater connects the past of the historic ballroom with the present and future on its stage with its entertaining shows. Performances feature an exciting variety of acrobatics, music, dance, comedy and drama, which is all part of the theater’s goal of enchanting its guests with bold shows from world-renowned performance artists. Each season, the theater changes its colors to fit with the next upcoming show, so the experience is ever-changing.
Practical Info
The Chameleon Theater is located at Rosenthaler Straße 40-41 in Berlin Mitte. The box office is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, until 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday, it is open from noon to 6 p.m.
Address: Rosenthaler Straße 40 -41, Berlin, Germany
Hours: The box office is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, until 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday, it is open from noon to 6 p.m.
Admission: Pricing varies
From $ 43
Cetina River
Flowing for more than 60 miles (96 kilometers) from its source at Dinara on the Croatia–Bosnia and Herzegovina border all the way to the Adriatic Sea near Split, the Cetina River is a main player in Dalmatia’s adventure-sports scene. Its rushing rapids, waterfalls, and tunnels make it ideal for rafting and canyoning excursions.
The Basics
Travelers based in Split can escape the city for a day and try adrenaline-fueled activities at the Cetina River. Join a white-water rafting trip that traverses Class II and Class III rapids, as well as floating along stretches of scenic Croatian countryside. Alternatively, go canyoning with a guide, navigating your way along the river to reach waterfalls and natural pools. For travelers who would rather stay dry, consider ziplining across the river for a whole new perspective on the rapids below.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Cetina River is a must for adventurous travelers.
- Canyoning and rafting tours typically include specialist equipment, such as life jackets, helmets, and wetsuits, but be sure to wear sturdy sports shoes and sunscreen.
- While canyoning and rafting tours can be adapted to suit skill levels, they do require that participants be mobile and possess a certain level of fitness.
- If you’re doing a rafting or canyoning tour, bring a towel and dry clothes to change into after.
How to Get There
The Cetina River empties into the Adriatic Sea at Omiš, about 16 miles (26 kilometers) east of Split, though most rafting tours take place farther upriver at towns such as Penšići. As public transport in this area is minimal, it’s best to go by organized tour.
When to Get There
Rafting and canyoning tours typically run from April to November and are dependent on weather and river conditions. Peak visitor months are July and August, but even then, the river remains uncrowded.
Velika Gubavica Waterfall
Many canyoning tours along the Cetina River stop at the 160-foot-high (50-meter-high) Velika Gubavica waterfall. This scenic cascade, situated in the Cetina River canyon, offers the chance for visitors to rappel, cliff jump, and hike in the lush surrounds. Even for adrenaline-averse travelers, the waterfall is worth a visit, if only to admire its picturesque appearance.
Address: Cetina River, Split, Croatia
From $ 50
Changu Narayan
Changu Narayan Temple, located within easy reach of the town of Bhaktapur in the Kathmandu Valley, has a history as a sacred site dating all the way back to the third century AD, though the double roofed temple that stands in honor of the god Vishnu today was erected after a fire in 1702. Some of the statuary contained within the temple date back to the fourth through ninth centuries.
The ancient temple honors Vishnu as Narayana, or the First Being. The wooden roof supports that are visible on the temple’s exterior depict several other deities from the Tantric school, and the stone sculptures surrounding the building depict various other avatars of Vishnu as well as of local kings and queens. The traditional Nepali-style architecture includes intricately gilded windows and four gates, each guarded by a pair of stone animals.
The temple doesn’t draw many visitors, making it a peaceful escape from Kathmandu. Only Hindus are allowed inside the main temple when it's open, but there are plenty of sights to enjoy in the courtyards surrounding the main structure. The path to and from the parking lot is lined with shops selling locally crafted masks and Tibetan thangka paintings.
The ancient temple honors Vishnu as Narayana, or the First Being. The wooden roof supports that are visible on the temple’s exterior depict several other deities from the Tantric school, and the stone sculptures surrounding the building depict various other avatars of Vishnu as well as of local kings and queens. The traditional Nepali-style architecture includes intricately gilded windows and four gates, each guarded by a pair of stone animals.
The temple doesn’t draw many visitors, making it a peaceful escape from Kathmandu. Only Hindus are allowed inside the main temple when it's open, but there are plenty of sights to enjoy in the courtyards surrounding the main structure. The path to and from the parking lot is lined with shops selling locally crafted masks and Tibetan thangka paintings.
Please note that there has been some damage to the
Changu Narayan Temple due to the earthquakes and subsequent aftershocks in
Nepal in late April and early May 2015. Authorities have said they will do
all they can to restore historic and cultural sites in Nepal and are assessing the extent of damages.
Address: Bhaktapur, Nepal
From $ 50
Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park
With its unspoiled beaches, lush nature trails, and abundance of marine life, Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park is among the highlights of Cozumel, set along the island’s west coast in the area’s National Marine Park. The Chankanaab name comes from the Mayan language and means "little sea," referring to the park’s natural lagoon. The access to the warm, turquoise sea is a top draw, as are the provided lounge chairs and hammocks prime for relaxing on the beautiful beach.
The Basics
Visitors can choose from an array of Chankanaab tour options to fit their budget and schedule. Book skip-the-line entry in advance to save time, or opt for a tour that combines time at Chankanaab with a visit to Discover Mexico Park.
Top Chankanaab activities include swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling in the warm Caribbean waters, as visitors can view the abundant marine life and unique underwater statues of The Christ, Chacmol (Maya god of rain), and the Virgin Mary at Chankanaab Reef and Chankanaab Lagoon. On land, beach park activities include lounging in the sand, taking a stroll through the park's botanical gardens, visiting the crocodile exhibition, watching dolphins swim and play, and catching a sea lion show. The park also offers a swimming pool and various add-on experiences such as spa treatments, a zip-line course, a tequila-tasting experience, and dolphin swims.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many tours departing from Cozumel include entrance fees or skip-the-line admission.
- A variety of restaurants and snack bars offer food (including fresh tortillas), or you can bring your own meals.
- Beach umbrellas provide shade, but be sure to slather on some sunscreen.
- Lockers, showers, and restrooms are available onsite.
- Snorkeling and diving equipment rentals are offered.
- Lifeguards are on duty at the park, and life vests are available.
- Beach wheelchairs are available.
How to Get There
Chankanaab Park is located on the west coast of Cozumel, just south of San Miguel, and is open to visitors daily from 8am to 4pm. Round-trip transportation is included on most tours, but taxi cabs can also usually be found lined up outside the park and parking is available. While Chankanaab can get crowded when a cruise ship pulls into town, guided combo tours allow you to visit multiple Cozumel sights without getting stuck in the crowd.
When to Get There
December through March is high season in this part of Mexico, and thus Chankanaab beach adventure park. Don't be surprised at the presence of larger crowds and possibly booked-out activities during this time; a guided tour may be your best bet. Arriving at Chankanaab when it opens (8am) allows you to get the most for your vacation dollar. Please note that the the park can be crowded when a cruise ship pulls into town, as Chankanaab is a popular shore excursion.
Maya Culture at Chankanaab Park
Maya heritage is celebrated in Cozumel. The Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park includes a recreated Maya Village, where visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the ancient Maya people.
Address: Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, Cozumel, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Champagne Reef
You know the way that bubbles rise from the bottom of a glass of champagne? That’s exactly what the water looks like when snorkeling Champagne Reef. Thanks to small, volcanic vents in Dominica’s ocean floor, powerful streams of miniature bubbles emerge from cracks between the rocks and dance their way to the surface. Place your hand on the ocean floor, and it’s even possible to feel the burst of air bubbling up from the Earth. Add in a wealth of colorful marine life and the turquoise, tropical waters, and it’s little wonder why Champagne Reef is one of Dominica’s most popular destinations to explore with mask and snorkel.
Practical Info
Champagne Reef is about a 20-minute drive from Dominica’s capital, Roseau. Because the area is part of a marine reserve, visitors are advised to not step on the coral and no anchoring or fishing is allowed. The beach in front of the snorkeling spot is rocky—so don’t expect to sunbathe—but once you’ve made it out past the waves it’s an easy swim to the reef.
Did You Know? The bubbles are formed by geothermal activity, and of the Caribbean’s 16 active volcanoes, nine are located on Dominica.
Address: Champagne Reef, Pointe Michel, Dominica
Hours: Daylight hours
From $ 75
Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard is a centuries-old tradition that marks the official shift change of the Household Regiment—the Queen's guards stationed at Buckingham Palace. One of the world's most famous ceremonies and a top London experience, this ceremony gives visitors the chance to witness the grandeur of a royal march. Dressed in their iconic red suits and bearskin hats, the guards exemplify classic British pomp in a showing that's not to be missed.
The Basics
The ceremony begins with the New Guard marching from Wellington Barracks to Buckingham Palace with a marching band, while the mounted Horse Guards Parade leaves from the Hyde Park barracks and crosses The Mall to St. James' Place. The official guard change then takes place in the palace forecourt. Some London walking tours include a timed stop at the palace to see the event, while other tours combine a viewing with a visit to the Tower of London or a whirl on the London Eye.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buckingham Palace's Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 11:30am and lasts about 45 minutes.
- Crowds are frequent, especially at the palace, but you'll find quieter spots elsewhere along the route.
- The ceremony is free to watch, and no tickets are required.
How to Get There
The procession begins at Wellington Barracks and continues on to Buckingham Palace in central London. The nearest tube stations are St. James Park, Green Park, and Victoria.
When to Get There
To get a good view, it's best to arrive early—as early as 9:30am for a good view in the summer months. Some tours are timed specifically for the ceremony, guaranteeing the best viewpoints and insight from an expert tour guide. Note that the ceremony may be canceled in bad weather.
Things to Do Near Buckingham Palace
Travelers can pair the show with stops at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and Windsor Castle, or even with afternoon tea, a classic London experience. The nearby Tower of London also has an entertaining guards tour that complements Buckingham's Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Address: Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1, England
Hours: Daily 11:30am
From $ 23
Cerro Verde National Park
With its trio of volcanic peaks encircled by lush jungle, a vast network of hiking trails and the nearby crater lake of Coatepeque, the Cerro Verde National Park presents one of El Salvador’s most startlingly beautiful landscapes.
The main pastime for visitors to the Cerro Verde National Park is hiking and its three volcanoes, Izalco, Cerro Verde and Santa Ana, are all easily accessible. The highest point is the 2,381-meter summit of Santa Ana, El Salvador’s highest and most active volcano, capped with four craters and a glistening green crater lake, but equally dazzling are the views from neighboring Izalco, nicknamed the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” for its near-continuous eruptions over 160 years. Another highlight is climbing the eponymous peak and hikers scaling the now-extinct Cerro Verde volcano will find the mountaintop cloud forest filled with colorful birdlife, including hummingbirds, jays and emerald toucanets.
Practical Info
The Cerro Verde National Park is located in west El Salvador, about 70 km west of San Salvador.
Address: Santa Ana, El Salvador
From $ 49
Chandni Chowk
One of India’s oldest markets, Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk (Hindi for moonlight square) is a perpetually busy area filled with narrow, congested lanes, each specializing in a different product such as spices, jewelry, hardware, and stationery. It’s also a great spot to practice your haggling skills—and the photo opportunities are extraordinary.
The Basics
Chandni Chowk can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors, though the excitement of wandering through its wholesale markets and narrow lanes lined with centuries-old buildings can be fun. Aside from its myriad bazaar vendors hawking everything from shawls to sweets and books to baubles, it’s also known for its street food. Daring visitors may want to stop at the Gali Paranthe Wali for some famous deep-fried flatbread (parantha), though the famous Bikaner Sweet Shop may be a safer bet for those with sensitive tummies.
The market area is often visited in conjunction with other nearby attractions including the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Jain Bird Hospital. Many Delhi tours and nearly all Old Delhi tours pass through Chandni Chowk, and often feature bicycle rickshaw rides through its narrow streets. Foodies can enjoy private and group walking tours that focus on the market’s wonderfully overwhelming flavors.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chandni Chowk is a must for first-time visitors, shopaholics, foodies, and those looking for an unforgettable Old Delhi experience.
- Remember to bargain. Most shops here—and throughout India—expect it.
- The streets in this part of Delhi are uneven and dusty, so wear good footwear.
- Be prepared for crowds. While the area is safe, travelers with small children should hold their hands at all times to avoid separation.
- The area’s lanes are narrow, congested, and uneven, making Chandni Chowk virtually inaccessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Chandni Chowk is located due south of the Old Delhi Railway Station, just west of the Red Fort and north of the Jama Masjid. From New Delhi, take the metro’s Yellow Line to the Chandni Chowk stop; the Violet Line’s Lal Quila (Red Fort) stop is about a 12-minute walk away. Most visitors arrive either by car or metro, or stop here as part of an Old Delhi walking or cycle rickshaw tour.
When to Get There
While Chandni Chowk is popular throughout the year, it’s best to visit in the cool winter months. If you do come in the peak heat of May or June, visit in the morning or after nightfall to avoid the abrasive sun. Most of the shops in Chandni Chowk are closed on Sunday.
Chandni Chowk’s Old Havelis
Chandni Chowk is full of old private mansions, known as havelis, many of which date back hundreds of years. Most havelis continue to operate as private homes, often with multiple generations of joint families living under one roof—and they aren't easy to find if you don’t know where to look. Many private tours take travelers to these havelis, and some even include a sit-down meal in one of the restored homes.
Address: Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi 110 006, India
Admission: Free
From $ 7
Chand Baori
Chand Baori, one of the deepest and largest step wells in the world, is also one of India’s most overlooked and incredible sights. An Escher-like maze of 3,500 symmetrical stone steps descent 100 feet (30 meters) into the ground, culminating in a well where locals once came to draw water. The well is so deep, the temperature at the bottom is often several degrees cooler than on the surface.
The well, along with nearby Harshat Mata Temple, were built between 800 and 900 AD by King Chand Raja, and was believed to be dedicated to Hashat Mata, the Hindu goddess of joy and happiness. Stone sculptures carved into the walls of the well depict scenes from Hindu mythology. A popular filming location, the well featured in scenes from The Dark Knight Rises, The Fall and Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
Practical Info
Chand Baori is best visited from Jaipur, 59 miles (95 kilometers) away. If you’re not going with a guided tour, you can take a bus to Sikandra and then hire a taxi from there.
Address: Abhaneri, Rajasthan, India
Hours: 59 miles (95 kilometers) outside of Jaipur
From $ 42
Chania Archaeological Museum
Tucked behind the façade of the former Venetian church of St Francis, Chania’s Archaeological Museum can be visited as part of an electric Trikke tour of its charming Old Town. Displays cover the periods from Neolithic and Minoan to late Roman times, and exhibit treasures found during excavations around the town and across western Crete.
The collections are elegantly displayed under the soaring vaulted ceiling of the church’s nave and include models of ships, clay seals, battered Classical statuary and a bust of Emperor Hadrian. Highlights are a bird-shaped Minoan drinking vessel dating from 3000-2300 BC; gold discs from a Neolithic burial site, thought to be from the 9th century BC; an almost-complete mosaic of Dionysos and Ariadne, which was uncovered during building work in Chania and dates from the 3rd century AD; and a charming clutch of carved animals. The Mitsotakis Collection, donated to the museum in 2000, is also on display and encompasses Minoan pottery and jewelry.
The Turkish Fountain in the courtyard outside the museum originally stood in Eleftherios Venizelos Square down by Chania’s Venetian harbour.
Practical Info
Open Tue–Fri 8am–7pm; Sat–Sun 8.30am–3pm. Admission for adults is €2; seniors, students and children is €1. The museum is best reached on foot in the pedestrianized old town. Chania can be reached by daily ferry from Piraeus in Athens, and by plane via Chania International Airport, which is 9 miles (14 km) from the town center.
Address: 28 Halidon Street, Chania, Crete 731 00, Greece
Hours: Tue–Fri 8am–7pm; Sat–Sun 8.30am–3pm
Admission: Adults: €2; Seniors, Students and Children: €1
From $ 34
Changi Memorial and Chapel
Having moved from the prison site to its new location directly across the Changi Gaol in 2001, the Changi Memorial and Chapel is a testament to those prisoners of war who were made to suffer and perish during World War II.
In the memorial, several artifacts from the period show how Singaporeans, particularly those prisoners being held in the Changi prison, had suffered under Japanese occupation during the war. Boasting tons of personal affects including emotional letters, drawings and photographs, the memorial tells the stories of more than 50,000 people who had been there between 1942 and 1945.
Entrance is free or for a nominal fee, visitors can elect to embark on a one hour guided tour of the complex that goes through paintings made years later by several internees who recreated what life as a POW was like inside the prison. Visitors can also purchase an audio tour or stop over to watch one of a few informative videos with footage from the era.
In the corner of the memorial, there is a neat collection of rare books which deal exclusively with what Singapore was like during wartime.
Located on Upper Changi Road North, the memorial and chapel are open daily from 9:30am with last admission at 5pm. They can easily be reached by hopping on the SBS bus #2 from Tanah Merah MRT station (EW4), which stops directly in front of the Changi Chapel and Museum.
In the memorial, several artifacts from the period show how Singaporeans, particularly those prisoners being held in the Changi prison, had suffered under Japanese occupation during the war. Boasting tons of personal affects including emotional letters, drawings and photographs, the memorial tells the stories of more than 50,000 people who had been there between 1942 and 1945.
Entrance is free or for a nominal fee, visitors can elect to embark on a one hour guided tour of the complex that goes through paintings made years later by several internees who recreated what life as a POW was like inside the prison. Visitors can also purchase an audio tour or stop over to watch one of a few informative videos with footage from the era.
In the corner of the memorial, there is a neat collection of rare books which deal exclusively with what Singapore was like during wartime.
Located on Upper Changi Road North, the memorial and chapel are open daily from 9:30am with last admission at 5pm. They can easily be reached by hopping on the SBS bus #2 from Tanah Merah MRT station (EW4), which stops directly in front of the Changi Chapel and Museum.
Address: 1000 Upper Changi Road North, 507707, Singapore
Hours: Open daily 9:30am-5pm
From $ 44