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Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Niagara Falls & Around

Chateau de Chenonceau

When approaching the moat entrance to Château de Chenonceau, it may seem at first like it is not that big. But the surprise is in what's behind it – a massive gallery that spans the Cher River. In fact, a bird's-eye view would confirm that the entire castle sits squarely in the river! This 16th-century castle was built on the foundation of an existing water mill and has a history of its chatelaines making their own mark on its interior, exterior and grounds – the largest contribution coming from Catherine de' Medici, who was also responsible for showing the first fireworks in France.

After being used as a hospital during World War I and part of Nazi-occupied France in World War II (and thus bombed), today the castle is beautifully restored and receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. These visitors enjoy not only a full tour of the interior, including the gallery over the river, but also the extensive gardens and a donkey park. At night during the summer months there is also a Night Walk through the beautifully lit grounds–a must for a romantic night out.

Practical Info

Château de Chenonceau is open all year round–useful if traveling over the holidays. It opens at 9:30 am from November through March and 9 a.m. the rest of the year; closing times vary between 5 and 8 p.m. through the year, so check before planning a late visit. The base price is €11, with discounts for children and students and additional fees for audio tours. Children under 7 enter free. There are three restaurants on the grounds, ranging from high-end to cafeteria style.

Chenonceaux 37150, France

Varies by season

Adults €11

From $ 16

Charminar

The most famous building in Hyderabad, Charminar is an iconic monument and mosque situated in the heart of the old city. This grand square structure was built at the end of the 16th century by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shahi to celebrate the end of a plague that had swept the region.

The Charminar is an example of Indo-Islamic architecture, with some other influences evident, such as its Persian inspired stucco elements. It features four grand arches that face out towards wide roads leading off in each direction. There are four fluted minarets built into each corner of the monument, which are crowned with a dome and feature intricate designs at their base. A small mosque sits on the western side of the top floor of the building, facing the holy Muslim city of Mecca.

Practical Info

Charminar is located in the heart of Hyderabad’s old city, close to Laad Bazaar and not far from the Mecca Masjid mosque. It’s easily accessible from various parts of the city by taxi or public bus.

Pathergatti Road, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India

9:30am-5:30pm daily

Rs. 100

From $ 39

Charlottetown

The capital of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown blends big-city convenience with small-town charm. Site of the pivotal 1864 Confederation Conference, the city is proud of its starring role in Canada’s history as well as its flourishing contemporary dining scene, with oyster bars and locavore restaurants operating out of heritage buildings in the leafy downtown core.

The Basics

While Charlottetown makes an excellent base for travelers who want to explore other destinations on PEI, such as Prince Edward Island National Park and the Green Gables Heritage Place, the city itself also has lots to offer. Charlottetown tours by bus cover highlights, such as the Victorian-style Beaconsfield Historic House, the waterfront Victoria Park, and Province House, where the Confederation Conference was held. City tours are a good way for time-tight travelers to get an overview of the city, and provide an opportunity for first-time visitors to get their bearings before exploring independently.

Things to Know Before You Go

Charlottetown’s historic core is compact and is best explored on foot.
Some streets are cobblestone so wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
The Charlottetown Visitor Information Centre is at 6 Prince Street.

How to Get There

Many visitors arrive in Charlottetown port via cruise ship, while others touch down at Charlottetown Airport. Cars can access the island via Confederation Bridge (the Trans-Canada Highway), which connects PEI to New Brunswick.

When to Get There

Cruise ship season runs from May through October. This is when Charlottetown, and Prince Edward Island as a whole, is busiest. July and August are best for beach time and alfresco dining, while the monthlong Fall Flavors festival, which runs throughout September, is a big lure for foodies. Winters are cold and snow typically falls from mid-December through late March.

What to See and Do in Charlottetown

For visitors interesting in delving into Canada’s past, Charlottetown is packed with sights of historical interest. Chief among Charlottetown’s historic landmarks is Province House, the seat of the provincial government and the site where representatives of British North America met in 1864 during the Confederation Conference. Don’t miss Victoria Row, an atmospheric restaurant and bar-lined block of Richmond Street that’s closed to traffic during the summer months.

Charlottetown, PEI, Canada

From $ 21

Charlotte Amalie Cruise Port

The Charlotte Amalie cruise port serves as a cruisers’ gateway to St Thomas and the rest of the US Virgin Islands, a hugely popular stop on Eastern Caribbean cruises. With great shopping, sightseeing, and beach water sports within easy reach of the cruise terminal, the capital city of Charlotte Amalie and the rest of St Thomas offer everything you need for a perfect day ashore paradise. Other US Virgin Islands include St John, St Croix, and Water Island, also easily reachable from the port.

The Basics
Once on dry land, start your time in St Thomas with a sightseeing tour to downtown Charlotte Amalie for duty-free shopping and Danish architecture on Veterans Drive and Main Street, or a trip to the island’s highest point at the summit of Mountain Top. Some cruise ship passengers opt for shore excursions that highlight Caribbean adventures in the USVI—think snorkeling with sea turtles, kayaking through a mangrove lagoon, and hiking at historic Hassel Island and Virgin Islands National Park. Other cruise excursions include admission to Coral World Ocean Park for a theme park experience or transport to the area’s best beaches, including Lindbergh Bay Beach, Magens Bay, Honeymoon Beach, Sapphire Beach, and the Marriott Beach Resort, for a day of relaxation before heading back to the cruise ship.

Most St Thomas shore excursion tours include pickup and dropoff at the port.
St Thomas is fairly compact, so it’s easy to pack a number of activities into your island tour.
The island enjoys warm weather year-round, although the months of June through November are known as hurricane season.

How to Get to Charlotte Amalie From the Cruise Port
While St Thomas has two cruise ports, most large cruise ships come in at the busy West India Company Dock (Havensight) on the south-central part of the island, about 1.5 miles (2.5 km) from downtown Charlotte Amalie. Take a long stroll along the waterfront to get into town, or opt for a 10-minute taxi ride. At the port area, travelers will find a shopping mall and a few dining options.

Port Information
English is spoken here (often with a French or Spanish lilt), and residents are United States citizens. Banks and ATMs can be found in downtown Charlotte Amalie; the US dollar is the local currency. The British Virgin Islands are neighbors to the east, and Puerto Rico is about 40 miles (64 km) to the west.

Veterans Dr, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Daily

From $ 20

Chateau de Langeais

Château de Langeais is one of the Loire Valley's most interactive castles. Far from being just a remnant of the past, the interior features faithful recreations of not only the furniture and art that were once found in the rooms, but also period-correct lighting, mannequins in period dress and guided tours that bring the past to life before visitors' eyes.

In addition, the grounds include an accessible treehouse, a promenade with an observation deck, activities for kids and a nightly show that leads guests through the rooms and unlocks the “secrets” of the past. And those arriving early or leaving late can see the only remaining manual drawbridge in France open and close the grounds! Traveling families should add Château de Langeais to any Loire itinerary.

Practical Info

The Château de Langeais is reachable by foot from the Langeais train station; the trip is 2.5 hours from Paris and less than 30 minutes from Tours. The castle and grounds are open every day of the year; Christmas Day hours are 2 to 5 p.m., while the rest of the year opening and closing times vary by tourism season, with July and August hours maxing out at 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. A full adult ticket is 9 euro, with reduced fares for kids and combined tickets for the castle and a show. Note that if your name is Anne, the show is free!

Place Pierre de Brosse, Langeais 37130, France

February-March 9:30 a.m.-5:30; April-June & September-November until 6:30 p.m. July-August 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; November 12-January 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Adults €9, Youth €7.50, Children 10-17 €5

From $ 196

Château Mukhrani

Founded in the late 19th century by Prince Ivane Mukhranbatoni, the Chateau Mukhrani is a winery and castle located in Mukhrani village, just outside of Tbilisi. Mukhrani wines received international acclaim from the beginning and the winery was one of the exclusive suppliers to the Russian Imperial Court. The castle and gardens were once a cultural center for the Georgian elite and Russian royalty. Chateau Mukhrani was abandoned and nearly destroyed during Soviet times, but in 2002 plans began to restore the estate to its former glory and to revive the winery.

Since 2007, Chateau Mukhrani has once again been producing wine harvested in its own vineyards. The wine cellar has also been rebuilt according to its original design and now holds more than 60,000 barrels of wine. Today, visitors can tour the restored castle, gardens and wine cellar; sample Mukhrani wines and Georgian cuisine; and try their hand at traditional bread baking, churchkhela making or chacha distillation.

Practical Info

Chateau Mukhrani is a 30-minute drive from Tbilisi and is best reached by car or taxi. A wide range of tour packages are available and must be reserved in advance. Options include a basic 30-minute tour of the castle and winery for 10 Georgian lari per person or an hour-long tour and wine tasting for 32 lari that includes tasting three wines. Lunch, dinner, wine education classes and group culinary classes are also available.

116 Akaki Tsereteli Avenue, Tbilisi, Georgia

Open daily. Reservations required.

From 10 Georgian lari and up

From $ 54

Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg)

To experience the majesty of Germany’s Hohenzollern Dynasty, visit Berlin’s Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg). Built in the 17th century as a royal summer residence, the palace combines rococo and baroque decor and architecture, while the grounds feature a formal garden modeled after the Gardens of Versailles, a belvedere building showcasing German porcelain, a theater, and a mausoleum of royal marble tombs. Aside from palace tours, the site’s evening concerts are the main draw.

The Basics

The palace interior offers an extravaganza of opulence—in the Old Palace, you’ll find the Oak Gallery, King Friedrich I’s bedchamber, the royal apartments of Queen Louise, the Oval Hall, and the Porcelain Cabinet, while the New Wing (Neuer Flugel), added by Friederich the Great, features the Golden Gallery (Goldene Galerie) ballroom and the Silver Vault’s collection of tableware. The Charlottenburg Palace Park is also open to the public and famous for its tree-lined gardens, the Belvedere tea house with its extensive porcelain collection, and the neoclassical mausoleum, housing Queen Louise.

Various palace sites require various fees, but all-encompassing palace tickets are available. The palace is seen from afar on most Berlin city sightseeing tours, but you can get a closer look by purchasing tickets to explore the interior independently or visiting the Grosse Orangery for an evening concert featuring classical performances from the Berlin Residence Orchestra (Berliner Residenz Orchester) dressed in baroque costumes. Book a concert with a 3-course dinner for the full experience, and opt for VIP tickets to receive a glass of sparkling wine at intermission.

Things to Know Before You Go

Allot two to three hours to explore the palace’s main attractions.
The site’s restored Kleine Orangery now operates as the Palace Garden Cafe.
Much of the palace grounds are wheelchair accessible.
The gardens are free to enter.
Admission to the New Wing includes an audio guide.
Concerts at the Orangery typically sell out weeks in advance; book well in advance to secure your tickets.

How to Get There

Charlottenburg Palace is in inner-city west Berlin. From Alexanderplatz, take the S5 or S7 on the S-Bahn rail system to Zoologischer Garten, then switch to the U12 and get off at Sophie-Charlotte-Platz, the closest public transit stop. From there, it is a 15-minute walk to the palace.

When to Get There

The palace is open 10am to 5pm November through March and until 6pm April through October; it is closed on Mondays. During the holidays, the palace houses a Christmas market with stalls offering arts, crafts, and traditional sweets. Winter also brings special holiday concerts for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. The outdoor gardens make an excellent place to stroll and picnic during summer.

Spandauer Damm, Berlin 14059, Germany

Apr - Oct: Tues - Sun 10am - 6pm; Nov - Mar Tues - Sun 10am - 5pm. Closed Mondays

€17

From $ 16

Charlestown

Nevis may be smaller and sleepier than its sister isle of St. Kitts, but the capital of Charlestown has a decidedly more elegant and old-fashioned vibe than the rough-and-tumble neighboring capital Basseterre. The local code of conduct seems like something from a bygone era, where everyone smiles and stops to say good morning, afternoon or night, depending on the time of day, and public displays of swearing or complaining are frowned upon.

Walk along Main Street to the waterfront and visit the Museum of Nevis History to learn about the island and its most famous inhabitants, Alexander Hamilton and Horatio Nelson. Along Government Road, you can find a Jewish cemetery with headstones dating from 1684. And just a short walk from downtown takes you to Pinney's Beach, which boasts three miles of soft, palm lined Caribbean sands, along with the Four Seasons Resort and smattering of beach bars.

Practical Info

Charlestown is the capital city of Nevis. It sits on the western shore of the island, about eight miles from the Vance W. Amory International Airport and five miles from the Sea Bridge ferry terminal that connects Nevis with neighboring St Kitts.

Charlestown, Nevis, St Kitts and Nevis

From $ 48

Chaplin's World

Opened in spring 2016, Chaplin’s World in Corsier-Sur-Vevey, Switzerland, is the first museum dedicated to the life of actor Charlie Chaplin. Set in a neoclassical mansion where Chaplin lived for some 25 years, the museum features many of the home’s original furnishings, as well as family photographs, personal belongings, mementos and more than 30 wax figures of individuals who crossed paths with Chaplin or who were inspired by his work.

Chaplin’s World also includes a separate, Hollywood-style studio where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of silent film and try out the art of pantomime. The studio also includes recreated sets from some of Chaplin’s most famous movies. The surrounding park is also open to the public and offers panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps.

Practical Info

Chaplin’s World is in the town of Corsier-Sur-Vevey, about 15 miles from Lausanne or an hour train ride from the Geneva airport. From Vevey station, bus 212 runs to Chaplin’s World; get off at the Chaplin stop. Allow about two and a half hours for your visit. An interactive mobile app is available.

Route de Fenil 2, Corsier-Sur-Vevey, Switzerland

Daily 10am-6pm. Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

CHF 23

From $ 26

Chartwell

Looking at the stately red brick mansion of Chartwell, with its gabled roofs and vast gardens overlooking a swimming lake, it’s easy to imagine it as the residence of someone important, and few British politicians are as revered as Sir Winston Churchill. The legendary Prime Minister lived at the country estate with his family from 1924 until his death and today its interiors have been preserved in his honor.

As well as strolling through the immaculate rose garden, learning about the estate’s history at the Visitor Centre or stopping for tea at the onsite café, visitors can admire the house’s lavish décor, explore Churchill’s studio, where more than 100 of his paintings are on display, and peek at Churchill’s personal belongings and books.

Practical Info

Chartwell is located in Kent, South East England, approximately 40 km from London and is open daily from 10am- 5pm. Adult admission is £14.30. Chartwell is closed throughout the month of January.

Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS, England

10am-5pm

Adult £14.30

From $ 208

Charles Fort

Built in the 17th century, the vast star-shaped Charles Fort was designed to guard Kinsale Harbour. The site of fierce fighting during the 1690 Williamite War, Charles Fort was ceded by the British during the War of Independence in 1921, only to be extensively damaged during the Irish Civil War. The fort is now a designated National Monument.

The Basics

Though much of the site is in ruins, Charles Fort has been partially restored and is still a fascinating place to explore. Visit the exhibition center, housed in the former commander's quarters, where displays illuminate the history of the site. Then, wander around the exterior walls, admiring the views overlooking the harbor, town, and the River Brandon.

The fort can be explored independently, as part of a guided hourlong tour, or as a part of various day tours, which typically leave from Cork city and combine a visit to Kinsale with other west County Cork highlights, such as Timoleague Abbey and the scenic coastline of the Old Head of Kinsale.

Things to Know Before You Go

Charles Fort is a must for families, with lots of open space for kids to run around.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear, as some surfaces are uneven and weather is always changeable.
Restrooms and a tearoom are situated at the fort.
The exhibition center is wheelchair-accessible, though the fort itself is only partially accessible.

How to Get There

Charles Fort is just southeast of Kinsale, about a 30-minute drive south of Cork. The most scenic way to get here from Kinsale is along the Scilly Walk, a picturesque coastal route signposted from Kinsale town. Local Link Cork bus service 253 also connects Kinsale to Charles Fort.

When to Get There

The fort is open year-round, though some facilities, such as the tearoom, have limited opening hours outside the summer months. As much of the fort is exposed and its views are a big part of the site's appeal, it's best to visit on a clear, dry day if possible.

James Fort

Just across the harbor from Charles Fort sits another star-shaped fort, James Fort. Built between 1602 and 1607, James Fort was also tasked with guarding Kinsale Harbor and it saw much action during the Williamite War. Though it's less impressive and has undergone less restoration than Charles Fort, James Fort is nevertheless a fascinating site, and offers excellent views of Charles Fort across the water.

Summer Cove, Kinsale, Cork, Ireland

Varies

From $ 45

Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise

Originally built in 1635, Château d'Auvers-Sur-Oise is the gorgeous castle where Vincent Van Gogh famously spent the last 70 days of life. Consequently, the site now features a fascinating exhibit dedicated to Impressionism and works to immerse visitors in 19th-century Parisian life.

At the time of construction, the château featured a splendid Louis XIII facade, along with lavish Tivoli-inspired gardens with numerous fountains and orangeries. While the façade still exists today, the rest of the castle was significantly renovated in 1662 to make it inherently French and considerably larger, with two new pavilions. Nowadays, the castle is entirely dedicated to impressionists and features exciting highlights, including holograms of household painters like Renoir and Monet, an interpretation center with interactive terminals and even a simulated steam train whizzing through Haussmann-era Paris.

Practical Info

Château d’Auvers-sur-Oise is located in Auvers-sur-Oise, at the very gateway of the Natural Regional Park of French Vexin. It is easily reached from Paris in one hour via A86 and A115, and there is free parking on site. Regular train service runs to Auvers-sur Oise from several stations in Paris, including RER C. Entry cost €14.75 for adults and €10.65 for children between the ages of 6 and 18. The castle is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:30am to 6pm, except between October and March when it closes at 4:30pm.

Chemin des Berthelees, Auvers-sur-Oise, Île-de-France 95430, France

Tues–Sun 10:30am–6pm (Oct–March closes at 4:30pm)

Adults €14.75, children €10.65

From $ 200

Chateau d'Azay le Rideau

Perhaps one of France’s most breathtaking castles, this beautiful grey stone structure appears to be floating on the placid waters of the Indre River. Built between 1518 and 1527, Chateau d’Azay le Rideau was once considered the premier example of French renaissance architecture. In 1905 it became a designated historical monument and later, the castle was included in the Loire Valley UNESCO World Heritage site.

After taking in the impressive exterior, travelers can explore the rich interior, which is comprised of old-world drawing rooms, apartments, a kitchen and bedrooms decorated in 19th-century style. In addition to being a stunning example of French architecture and history, Chateau d’Azay le Rideau is also home to a large collection of artwork.

Practical Info

Chateau d’Azay le Rideau is located in Azay-le-Rideau in the middle of the Indre River. Visitors should be sure to check out the chateau’s attics, which are renowned for their impressive hand-crafted wood frames and a unique exhibit detailing the challenging construction.

Rue de Pineau, Azay-le-Rideau, France

Vary by season

Adults: 6,5€

From $ 12

Chapel of Ascension

This chapel on Jerusalem’s Mount of Olives is a sacred site for both Christians and Muslims. It claims to be the oldest of three churches located on the Mount. Though Jesus is believed to have taken his final steps before ascending to heaven here (there is even a footprint impression on a stone slab that is believed to be from Jesus’s right foot), the site has since been converted to a mosque, after being captured by the Muslim sultan Saladin in the 10th century. It remains under the control of an Islamic group, though all faiths are welcome.

Many believe Jesus’s Assumption, 40 days after his resurrection, had taken place inside a cave. Nonetheless a church was built in this spot in the 4th century. Its exterior is marked by archways and slim marble columns, built in a Romaneque style.

Practical Info

The chapel is located in the At-Tur district of Jerusalem. It is open to visitors daily during daylight hours.

Mount of Olives, Jerusalem, Israel

From $ 35

Charlotteville

On the north end of the small island of Tobago, the town of Charlotteville is a picturesque fishing village deep within protected Man O War Bay. Devoid of large resorts or chain anything, it’s a perfect place to relax in one of the town’s small guesthouses. A walking trail from Charlotteville leads to the beautiful beach at Pirate Bay, a completely undeveloped section of beach where you can swim and sunbathe in the warm Caribbean waters. This sleepy town has a handful of bars and restaurants, and it’s also home to one of the country’s few remaining tamboo bamboo bands, a bamboo percussion music from the slave era.

Practical Info

Charlotteville sits at the far north of Tobago, about 40 minutes’ drive from the capital of Scarborough and the island’s airport. Just across the peninsula—about 10 minutes’ drive—is the somewhat larger town of Speyside where you can join diving and snorkeling trips to Little Tobago.

Charlotteville, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago

From $ 110

Château de Chantilly

France’s splendid Château de Chantilly castle is located 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Paris. Rebuilt after the French Revolution, the palace that stands today dates to the 19th century and is renowned for its opulence. It is also home to the Musée Condé: considered one of the country's most important art collections.

The Basics

Construction began on the original Château de Chantilly in 1528, but the castle was largely destroyed in 1799 during the French Revolution. The grand castle that stands today—commissioned by the Duke of Aumale, son of the last king of France—was redesigned by architect Honoré Baumet, and construction took place from 1875 to 1885. The château is renowned for its extravagant Renaissance style and for the Musée Condé, which includes works by Botticelli, Raphael, Delacroix, and Ingres. In 2013, the Musée du Cheval (Horse Museum) was installed in the palace’s Grand Stables, and equestrian shows are held on the grounds throughout the year.

The Château de Chantilly is included in the Paris Pass, and numerous tour options from Paris are available. Private tours provide a hassle-free way to explore.

Things to Know Before You Go

A number of admission options are available, including tickets to the entire complex; tickets to the grounds; or tickets to the Great Stables, Musée du Cheval, and an equestrian show.
The château’s ground floor is accessible to visitors with mobility issues.
There are several restaurants and a hotel on-site.

How to Get There

The Château de Chantilly is located within day trip distance from Paris. Take the RER D or select SNCF trains to the Chantilly-Gouvieux station. The castle can also be reached by car: Take the A3 or A1 motorway from Paris and look for the Chantilly exit. Paid parking is provided on-site.

When to Get There

The Château de Chantilly has two open seasons. During low season—late October to late March—it is open every day but Tuesday, 10:30am to 5pm. During high season—late March to early October—it is open daily from 10am to 6pm. The château is closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and for several weeks in mid-January.

The Palace Grounds

Set on a sweeping stretch of land and ringed by artificial lakes, the Château de Chantilly is celebrated for the beauty of its surroundings. The formal garden was designed in part by André Le Nôtre, who helped create the gardens at Versailles. Another highlight is the Hameau de Chantilly, a folly comprising several rustic cottages that inspired Marie Antoinette’s Hameau de la Reine at Versailles.

France

Varies

From $ 20

Chao Phraya River (Mae Nam Chao Phraya)

Every great city has a river, and Bangkok’s is the Chao Phraya (Mae Nam Chao Phraya). Alive with traditional long-tail boats, passenger ferries, and cargo boats, the Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of the city. It winds past both ancient temples and modern high-rises, offering a unique, local perspective on the Thai capital.

The Basics

Traveling via the Chao Phraya River is a great way to tour Bangkok while escaping thick city traffic. Most of Bangkok’s main attractions—including the Grand Palace, Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun), Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho), and Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)—are easily accessible from various points along the river. Both Chao Phraya Express boats and converted rice barges ferry visitors to popular city sights. Dinner cruise options abound, complete with live bands and traditional Thai meals, while some small-group boat tours explore the more remote klongs (canal ways) in Thonburi. In addition to traditional sightseeing tours, visitors can tour the night market and the floating market, or try one of many food-based tour options. All offer unique vantages from which to see the city and help visitors avoid the stress of navigating ferry and boat schedules. You can also stay on land and see the river on a tuk-tuk or bicycle tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you’re exploring by day, bring sun protection and plenty of water.
Chao Phraya Express boats can be identified by their orange, green, or yellow flags. Only the orange boat is open every day.
The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat, which can be identified by its blue flag, is usually less crowded—albeit more expensive—than the express boats.
Some boats leave every five minutes, while others leave every 25 minutes; be sure to check the timetable of your boat before arriving.

How to Get There

The Chao Phraya splits Bangkok vertically into two areas and is a popular way to navigate the city. You can get to the river by taking the BTS Skytrain to Central Pier or Sathorn Bridge Pier. River City Pier, located on the eastern side of the river roughly 20 minutes by road or ferry from the Grand Palace, is also a popular jumping-off point for city tours and dinner cruises. To save the hassle of transportation, opt for a dinner cruise with hotel pickup and drop-off.

When to Get There

Bangkok is most crowded in November and March due to soccer tourism. March, April, and May are the hottest months, while the rainy season lasts from the end of May through October. The Chao Phraya River is a popular thoroughfare morning, noon, and night. For spectacular city views and the best temperatures, consider early morning or evening sunset cruises.

Exploring Bangkok’s Klongs

When the capital of Thailand moved to Bangkok at the beginning of the Rattanakosin period, European visitors dubbed the new capital “the Venice of the East” for its many canals. Choose a cruise that navigates some of the city’s more remote klongs to see wooden, riverside stilt houses, kids splashing in the river, and some of the city’s colorful and chaotic floating markets.

Chao Phraya River, Bangkok, Thailand

Free

From $ 12

Charles Darwin Research Station

A must-see while in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, the biological research station known as the Charles Darwin Research Station is a great way to take in some interesting facts about the environment of the Galapagos many take for granted while relaxing on the beach and having a pina colada. On display, the center has available information on local conservation, habitats, and other interesting relevant statistics.

Certainly the station's most impressive attraction is the tortoise breeding center, where you can see tortoises of all shapes and sizes, including the famous Lonesome George, at 90+ years old, and the last remaining member of the Pinta Island subspecies. Access to the tortoises is quite open and visitors can feel free to walk amongst them as well enjoy a last-minute photo-op.

Practical Info

Visitation to the Charles Darwin Research Station is included in the $100 National Park entrance fee even though many tour packages will often include it as a part of the package. Access to the center is a mere 30 minute stroll from the from the beautiful Puerto Ayora town center. After enjoying some fresh calamari and a cocktail, simply take stroll along Avenue Charles Darwin until it ends…and that’s it!

Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Ecuador

Included in Galapagos National Park fee

From $ 4,195

Charles Square

Charles Square is a city square located in the New Town of Prague. It was created by Charles IV in 1348 when the New Town was first built, and was the largest town square across medieval Europe. At approximately 70,000 square-meters, even today it’s one of the largest city squares in the world, and certainly the largest in Prague.

Formerly known as Cattle Market, the square was named after its founder in the 18th century, around the same time its central section was turned into a park. This park covers most of the square and is a popular place for locals and visitors to come and relax. It features seven sculptures and a Baroque fountain.

Among the oldest buildings on the square are the New Town Hall and the 16th century Faust House. Other notable buildings include the Baroque Jesuit Church of Saint Ignatius and the neo-Renaissance Czech Technical University building.

Practical Info

If not within walking distance of Charles Square, take Line B of the metro and exit at Karlovo namesti, or take any of the following numbered trams: 3, 4, 6, 14, 16, 18, 22, or 24.

Charles Square, Prague, Czech Republic

From $ 19

Charles Bridge (Karluv Most)

Forming a grand walkway between Prague Old Town, and the Lesser Town and Castle District, the 15th-century Charles Bridge (Karluv Most) is one of the city’s most striking landmarks. The magnificent Gothic bridge features 16 stone arches, two watchtowers, and 30 blackened baroque statues depicting various saints.

The Basics

Most Prague tours make a stop at the Charles Bridge; although it’s easy to visit independently, tour guides will provide detailed explanations about the statues, which each has its own story. If you’re still craving more information, visit the Charles Bridge Museum on the east bank. Prague river cruises depart from the foot of the Charles Bridge on both sides of the river.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Charles Bridge is a pedestrian-only footbridge—bikes, Segways, and vehicles are prohibited.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore Prague on foot—the city is full of cobblestone streets and hills.
The bridge is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get to There

The Charles Bridge links the Old Town and Lesser Town over the Vltava River; it’s about a 10-minute walk from Old Town Square or a 15-minute walk from Wenceslas Square. The closest metro station is Staroměstská (Line A) on the east bank of the river, but numerous trams also run along the riverside and stop near the bridge.

When to Get There

It’s almost impossible to avoid the crowds along the Charles Bridge, especially in peak season (July and August), so your best bet is to visit early in the morning or late in the evening. If you’re hoping to capture a dramatic photograph of the bridge, arrive around sunrise, when the lighting is perfect and the views tend to be crowd-free.

A Prague Walking Tour

The Charles Bridge is ideally situated near Prague’s UNESCO-listed historic center. Start your walking tour in the Old Town, where you can watch the hourly display of the Astronomical Clock, stroll around the historic Jewish Quarter, and admire the Tyn Cathedral. Then cross the Charles Bridge into the Lesser Town and stop at the John Lennon Wall before climbing Castle Hill to visit St. Vitus Cathedral and take in the views from Prague Castle.

Prague, Czech Republic

Free

From $ 8