Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Niagara Falls & Around
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Fátima
Fátima is one of the most important shrines to the Virgin Mary in the world, as three shepherd children are said to have stated that Mary appeared to them. The last event, on Oct. 13, 1917, is known as the Miracle of the Sun and was attended by upwards of 40,000 people. A marble pillar with a statue of Our Lady marks the exact spot in the Chapel of Apparitions, and millions of pilgrims make the journey to see it yearly.
The Basics
Fátima is second only to Lourdes in France as Europe’s most important pilgrimage site, with a history and culture that will fascinate the religious and nonreligious alike. While some Catholics opt to visit during a pilgrimage, you can also visit the town and its religious sites—particularly the Basilica de Fátima—on a day trip from Lisbon or Porto. Choose between a half-day tour to Fátima and a full-day sightseeing tour with stops at other historic points of interest. Guided tours often include stops at other points of interest, including Óbidos, Nazaré, and Batalha. Travelers pressed for time can see the town on a half-day tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fátima is a must-visit for Catholics and history buffs.
- Day tours from Porto and Lisbon last upwards of eight hours and include hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Conservative dress is recommended, as many of Fátima’s attractions are sacred spots for devotees that sometimes ask visitors to cover their shoulders or legs.
- Mass at the basilica is held several times a day.
How to Get There
Fátima is 88 miles (142 kilometers) north of Lisbon. The easiest way to get there is on a guided tour, but it’s also possible to travel independently. Buses depart regularly from Sete Rios bus station in Lisbon or Batalha bus station in Porto. The rides take 90 or 120 minutes respectively. There is a train station servicing Fátima, but it’s located 12 miles (20 kilometers) outside of town, making it a less convenient option.
When to Get There
Fátima sees two major pilgrimages each year, in May and October. During this time, thousands of pilgrims make their way into town, and the city’s hotels and guesthouses fill up, making pre-booking a must. Every month on the 12th, there is an international rosary followed by a candlelight procession.
Points of Interest in Fátima
While the religious structures tend to be the most popular attractions at this pilgrimage site, there’s more to do in Fátima. The Fátima Wax Museum offers a history of the town through 31 scenes and more than 100 wax figures, while limestone formations of the Moeda Caves (Grutas da Moeda) are also nearby.
Address: Apartado 31, Fátima 2496-908, Portugal
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 40
Fairy Chimneys
The “fairy chimneys” of Cappadocia make up the surreal landscape of unique rock formations and valleys of this area of Turkey. They were formed centuries ago of ash, lava, and basalt from the activity of three volcanoes here. What is left behind today is dozens of these fairytale-like, otherworldly formations that look straight out of a fantasy or science-fiction film (in fact, parts of Star Wars were filmed here.)
As the rock formation base is often soft, throughout history those who have inhabited the area have carved their homes and dwellings out of the fairy chimney rock. As a result, Cappadocia is filled with fascinating Byzantine churches, historic homes, even entire underground cities to explore. The tops or caps of the chimney-like pinnacles are harder, which has protected the structures throughout many years. The Open Air Museum of Goreme is a spectacular place to view the many uses of the formations throughout history, as early as the 4th century.
Practical Info
The fairy chimneys of Cappadocia can be found in four major towns of the area: Nevsehir, Kayseri, Aksaray and Nigde. Flights and overnight buses to Kayseri run daily.
Address: Turkey
From $ 41
Faxafloi Bay
Snuggled between the peninsulas of Snæfellsnes and Reykjanes in Southwest Iceland, Faxafloi Bay has always held economic and culinary importance to Icelanders thanks to its enviable location on the shore. Back in the day, fishermen used to catch rations that would feed entire villages.
Now Faxafloi Bay isn’t exactly the fishing hub it once was, with bigger boats needing to venture further out at sea, but it still holds historical significance in the country’s history. One of the main attractions in the entire bay is Viðey Island, the largest island of the small Kollfjörður Bay around Reykjavik. It is where the famous Image Peace Tower
“Friðarsúlan” is located, which was commissioned by none other than John Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono, and which bears the words “imagine peace” in 24 different languages. Additionally, Viðey Island is also home to the country’s oldest church, with some settlements dating back to the 10th century. It is also a very popular whale-watching cruise departure point.
Visible from just about everywhere in Reykjavik and beyond (up to 75 miles away on clear days), Faxafloi Bay is reachable by car in about 45 minutes via route 1, Iceland’s Ring Road (journey length depends on how far up north Faxafloi Bay visitors are going). It is also possible to reach the region by public transit with buses 6 and 57 from Reykjavik.
Practical Info
Viðey is accessible via ferry from Reykjavik’s old harbor every day at 11:50 a.m. and 2:50 p.m. during the summer, and at 1:15, 2:15 and 3:15 p.m. from Skarfabakki Quay in the winter. One ride costs ISK 1100 per adult, ISK 550 per children aged 7-15 and ISK 1000 for students.
Address: Reykjavik, Iceland
From $ 98
Faberg e Museum
Housed in the suitably opulent Shuvalov Palace, the Fabergé Museum is a tribute to legendary Russian jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé. The St. Petersburg highlight showcases Russia’s treasured series of Fabergé eggs alongside a dazzling collection of Russian art, jewelry, and artifacts.
The Basics
An admission ticket for the Fabergé Museum includes full access to the museum’s 12 exhibition halls, which contain over 4,000 items such as silverware, porcelain, icons, and Russian impressionist paintings. Nine Fabergé eggs are the star attraction, of course, but other notable finds include enamel pieces by Pavel Ovchinnikov, military artworks by Karl Piratskiy and Pyotr Ivanovich Balashov, and Fabergé clocks, jewelry, and diamond-encrusted trinket boxes.
You can explore the museum on a guided or self-guided tour, or combine a visit to the Fabergé Museum with a city tour of St. Petersburg. Entrance is included with a St. Petersburg CityPass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Fabergé Museum is ideal for art lovers and first-time visitors to Saint Petersburg.
- Audio guides are available in several different languages.
- The Fabergé Museum is accessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Fabergé Museum is located along the Fontanka River Embankment in downtown St. Petersburg, within walking distance of top attractions such as the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Mikhailovsky Castle (St. Michael’s Castle), and the State Russian Museum. The closest metro stations are Gostiny Dvor and Mayakovskaya, both on Line 3.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 10am to 9pm daily except Friday; tours run until 6pm. To avoid the crowds, opt for an early-morning visit on a weekday.
Fabergé Eggs
Born in St. Petersburg, Peter Carl Fabergé was a talented jeweler who was appointed to serve the Russian court in 1885. In over 35 years of Tsarist patronage, Fabergé and his diamond cutters and goldsmiths created 54 gold eggs to mark significant occasions, from coronations to royal weddings. Following the assassination of the Romanovs in 1918, the Bolsheviks stole the imperial jewelry collection, and Fabergé fled to Lausanne, Switzerland, where he died two years later.
In more recent years, Russia has been quietly buying back its cultural heritage, and in 2013 opened the Fabergé Museum to house its collection of nine eggs (the largest collection in the world). Highlights of the collection include the first egg that Fabergé created in 1885—for Tsar Alexander III as a gift for his wife, Empress Maria Feodorovna.
Address: 21, Fontanka River Embankment, St Petersburg, Russia
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Fashion Street
One of the best places to score bargains in all of Mumbai, Fashion Street is a stretch of shops and market stalls selling inexpensive clothing and accessories, with a focus on international women's wear. While most people come here to bargain hunt, the people watching and abundant street food options make it worth a visit for everyone.
The Basics
Fashion Street has long been popular with local fashionistas and students on a budget, but its South Mumbai location near many of the city's major attractions makes it equally appealing to international tourists who love to shop. Few city tours stop here, but it's easy enough to stop by if you are visiting one of the many area attractions, such as the Bombay High Court or Victoria Terminus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget sunscreen and water, as the market can get hot.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for plenty of walking.
- Be prepared to bargain—shopkeepers will expect it and quote you high prices accordingly.
How to Get There
Fashion Street spans a 1.4-mile (2-kilometer) section of South Mumbai's MG Road, across from Azad Maidan. It’s easy to reach by train: it’s about a 10-minute walk each to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Railway Station (aka Victoria Terminus) and to the Churchgate station. Alternatively, it’s a 5- to 10-minute drive to the Gateway of India.
When to Get There
Most of the shops on Fashion Street are open daily from 11 to 9. You’re best off visiting first thing in the morning, as selling to the first person who browses at your shop is believed to bring good luck. While the market is a year-round destination, monsoon rain in July and August can make this largely outdoor shopping experience uncomfortable.
Brand-Name Discounts
While it’s not unheard of to find knockoffs of major international brands at Fashion Street, many of the items here, particularly those with labels from major high-street brands, are authentic. Many of the items here are simply factory surplus or have slight manufacturing defects, making them unsuitable for export but good enough to sell at rock-bottom prices at the market.
Address: MG Road, Mumbai, India
From $ 44
Fasouri Watermania
Covering 100,000 square meters, Fasouri Watermania is the most popular waterpark in Cyprus. With 30 different slides, three restaurants, six snack bars and the largest wave pool in the country, there is a little something for everyone. A Lazy River winds some 400 meters around the park and is perfect for anyone looking to relax. On the other hand, the Wet Wall Climb, is a major test of upper body strength as visitors try to get from one end of the park’s largest pool to the other. Other rides include the Kamikaze slide, which reaches speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour, the six-story Aqua Tube slides and the Black Hole slide, in which visitors plunge through complete darkness. Baby bungee swings are available for children up to three years old. Other activities include a massage parlor, fish spa and temporary tattoo parlor.
Practical Info
Fasouri Watermania is located just 15 minutes outside of Limassol’s city center, 10 minutes off the Limassol-Paphos Highway. A shuttle bus service is available from both the main tourist area in Limassol and the Paphos tourist area, although the latter is only available with pre-booked tickets.Within the park, visitors must use the Watermania cash card for all purchases.
Address: Limassol, Cyprus
Hours: Varies by season
Admission: Varies
From $ 42
Faro
Faro is home to about 55,000 people, but despite its relatively small size, it is the administrative center of the Algarve region. Prior to its modern incarnation, Faro was occupied by the Romans and then later the Moors, serving as a trading hub for both; ruins of both invading civilizations can be found throughout the city. As it grew in importance over neighboring towns such as Silves, Faro eventually became the regional seat.
Like Porto, Faro has an old town. Inside a spacious open square that was once the site of the Roman Forum is a 13th century Cathedral that faces the 18th century Episcopal palace. Much of the city is now composed of apartments and there are attractive shops and a particularly artistic theatre. Faro is also the home of the Ria Formosa lagoon, a nature reserve of over 17,000 hectares (42,000 acres) and a stopping place for hundreds of different birds during the spring and autumn migratory periods.
Of course, Faro is also a favorite place for seaside leisure, though it is not often very crowded. The beach is about 7 km (4 mi) from the city and is a long sandy near the International Airport. The city holds various cultural events here such as concerts and festivals.
Practical Info
Faro has a number of interesting museums, such as the 16th century convent now serving as the city’s archaeological museum. Of particular interest is the section devoted to the Moorish occupation. The church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is known as the “Golden Church” because of its renowned gold-leaf woodwork. It is also famous for its somewhat grim adornments – its chapel is lined with the bones of over 1,200 monks. Other museums include the Praça de Dom Francisco Gomes, a maritime museum featuring scale models of boats and galleons, and the Faro Jewish Heritage Center.
Address: Portugal
Admission: Free
From $ 42
Faro de Punta Celerain (Punta Sur) Ecological Park
Located on Cozumel’s southernmost tip, Faro de Punta Celerain (Punta Sur) Ecological Park spans 2,500 acres (1,011 hectares) of coastal wilderness, coral reefs, and Caribbean ocean. Here you can find ancient Maya ruins, a picturesque lighthouse, and sandy beaches—plus exotic birds, crocodiles, and sea turtles.
The Basics
Explore the park’s coral reefs on a diving or snorkeling tour to experience one of Cozumel’s richest underwater landscapes. On land, you can explore beautiful beaches, enjoy fresh seafood, and rest in shady hammocks. Climb the Celerain Point Lighthouse (Faro de Punta Celerain) for panoramic views of the area, visit the Tumba de Caracol (an ancient Maya shrine to Ixchel, the fertility goddess), or stroll through the wetlands to see crocodiles and rare birds.
Skip-the-line admission tickets to Punta Sur Ecological Beach Park allow you to save time and bypass long queues. Many Cozumel island tours include a visit to the park, whether you want to explore via Jeep, dune buggy, motorcycle, or electric bike. Some tour options include pickup and drop-off from hotels in Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or other Riviera Maya destinations.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is a must-see destination for wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, a swimsuit, and plenty of water.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife, whether you’re on land or swimming on the reef.
How to Get There
The eco park is located roughly 18 miles (29 kilometers) south of San Miguel, at the island’s southernmost tip. There is no public transportation on the island, but you can rent a car, hire a cab, or visit as part of a tour.
When to Get There
The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms if you plan to participate in outdoor activities.
Exploring Cozumel’s Coral Reefs
Located off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel island is home to a world-famous coral reef system. The reef near Punta Sur Ecological Park is best for experienced divers and is famous for its underwater cavern system. Paradise Reef and Palancar Reef are ideal spots for novice divers and snorkelers due to their shallow depth; both offer a chance to glimpse sea turtles, colorful fish, towering coral spires, and gently waving sea fans.
Address: Costera Sur, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
FBI Headquarters
The J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building, also known as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Headquarters, is the brain of the FBI’s activities around the world. The building, named after Hoover, who was the first FBI director, is located downtown in Washington DC, within walking distance of many other popular attractions. It also has a unique history, including a story that the famous FBI crime laboratory may have also been used as a smoking lounge.
The FBI has multiple locations, each of which handles various parts of the organization. The headquarters centralizes and coordinates activities at the highest levels. It serves as a hub for intelligence and information gathering. It’s also the location that takes the lead for the FBI during times of crisis or emergency.
Practical Info
The FBI Headquarters is currently located at 935 Pennsylvania Ave NW. There is metered street parking nearby, but it can often be difficult to find a spot. The best way to reach the headquarters is by public transportation. The closest metro subway stops are Federal Triangle, Gallery Place/Chinatown, Metro Center, and Archives/Navy Memorial. As of July 2014, the FBI is in search of a new location for the headquarters.
Address: 935 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington DC 20535, USA
From $ 39
Falls Road Murals
West Belfast’s Falls Road was a violent flashpoint during the Northern Irish conflict. Falls Road is in a predominantly Catholic nationalist neighborhood that borders Shankill Road, a mostly Protestant unionist area. The two areas are now separated by a peace wall that is adorned with hundreds of colorful politically themed murals.
The Basics
The Falls Road murals are a must for travelers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the Northern Irish conflict, known as the “Troubles.” Hop-on hop-off bus tours of Belfast ride along the stretch of murals, allowing passengers to disembark to view these evocative, large-scale images.
Many of the murals have political themes, including one depicting Bobby Sands, the Republican prisoner who died while on hunger strike in 1981. Informative Black Cab tours of the area can help visitors understand the motifs and symbolic meanings behind the Falls Road murals. These can be combined with Northern Ireland highlights tours, which typically visit scenic sights outside the city, such as the Giants Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Falls Road murals are a must for anyone with an interest in Northern Irish history, and the changing city of Belfast.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll spend most of your time exploring on foot.
- Bring an umbrella or a waterproof outer layer as there is little shelter on the Falls Road.
How to Get There
Falls Road is situated in West Belfast, a 5–10 minute drive from the city center. Translink metro bus routes 10a, 10b, 10h, and 10j all depart from Castle Street in central Belfast and stop along the Falls Road. Most hop-on hop-off bus tours of the city also stop at the Falls Road murals.
When to Get There
The Falls Road is a busy city street. It is rarely crowded with tourists, but it does see quite a lot of vehicular traffic. Go during daylight hours for the best views of the colorful murals, and keep out of the way of cars.
The Peace Walls of Belfast
Erected in parts of Belfast and other Northern Irish cities during the height of the Troubles, the Northern Irish peace walls were erected to help prevent outbursts of violence between divided communities. Though they were originally designed to be temporary, many of Belfast’s peace walls remain, including the one that runs along Cupar Way between the Falls Road and Shankill Road. This wall is punctuated by gates, which typically remain open during the day, allowing visitors and locals to pass freely between both sides of the divide.
Address: Belfast, Northern Ireland
From $ 16
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
Istanbul is often referred to as the city where east meets west due to its bordering of two different continents, Asia and Europe. This sentiment is literally true when it comes to the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. Located over the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, one end of Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is rooted in Europe while the other end sits in Asia. Residents of Istanbul who use Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge as their daily commute don't think twice about residing on one continent while working in another, but visitors to Istanbul will likely find it to be quite the novelty and will enjoy a drive across the bridge.
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge was built in 1988 and is one of the longest steel suspension bridges in the world. It is named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror who took control of Constantinople from the Byzantine Empire in the 15th century, though the bridge is also commonly referred to as the Second Bosphorus Bridge. (The Bosphorus Bridge – considered to be the First Bosphorus Bridge – is located farther south along the Bosphorus Strait).
Practical Info
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is part of the O-2 highway in Istanbul. If driving from the Europe side to the Asia side of the bridge you’ll need to pay a toll.
Address: Anadolu Hisarı Mh., İstanbul 34810, Turkey
From $ 58
Falesia Beach
Stretching for 6km between the villages of Vilamoura and Olhos do Agua, Falésia Beach is one of Portugal’s longest beaches and it’s a serene spot, with miles of pristine golden sands hemmed in by towering red sea cliffs and crops of pine forests.
A firm favorite among both locals and tourists, Falésia is ideal for swimming and water sports, while the cliff top resort is well served with restaurants, hotels, playgrounds and golf courses. Falésia and neighboring Quarteira beach also offer a magnificent backdrop for walking, cycling or Segway tours, with the palm-lined promenades and coastal lanes offering breath-taking views.
Practical Info
Falésia Beach runs from Vilamoura in the west to Olhos do Agua in the east, on the south coast of the Algarve.
Address: Albufeira, Portugal
From $ 64
Famagusta
Once a quintessential Mediterranean seaside resort and one of North Cyprus’ busiest tourist towns, the sandy beaches of Famagusta were left deserted in 1974, when the island was divided. With Famagusta falling under Turkish rule, the Greek occupants fled en-masse, leaving an eerie ghost town and many of the seafront hotels, shops and restaurants still lie empty today.
Not all of Famagusta has been abandoned though and strolling around the walled old quarter offers a glimpse into the town’s former glory. Dating back to the 13th century, the historic area is home to a number of key landmarks, including the medieval citadel of Othello’s Tower and the battle-worn St Nicholas’ Cathedral, now the Lala Mustafa Mosque.
Practical Info
Famagusta is located on the southeast coast of North Cyprus, around 65 km east of Nicosia.
Address: Famagusta, Cyprus
From $ 28
Famine Sculpture
Comprising a procession of skeletal life-size bronze figures, this haunting memorial remembers the victims of the Great Irish Famine of 1845–1849. Over a million people died and more than a million more were forced to flee the country as a result of starvation and disease brought on by the failure of the potato crop.
The Basics
Set along the banks of the River Liffey, this evocative memorial by Dublin sculptor Rowan Gillespie is often encountered by sightseers making their way to other attractions in the area, such as the Custom House. The memorial is an especially fitting complement to the nearby EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, which reveals the stories and experiences of Irish emigrants, and the Jeanie Johnston tall ship, which documents the experiences of the poverty-stricken and starving emigrants who crossed the Atlantic on the vessel during the famine.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Famine Memorial is a moving site for those who claim Irish ancestry, as well as a must for history buffs and art lovers.
- The statues are easily accessible for wheelchair users, with a smooth, level walkway running beside the River Liffey.
- Lots of bars, restaurants, and cafés can be found in the surrounding Docklands area.
How to Get There
The Famine Memorial is situated on Custom House Quay in the Docklands area of Dublin city center, just a 10-minute stroll east of O’Connell Street. The memorial is also accessible by public transit: take the Luas Red Line tram to the Busáras stop. From there, the memorial is less than five minutes away on foot.
When to Get There
As the sculptures are out in the open air, they are best visited on dry days. In summer, camera-clicking sightseers often crowd the area after noon, so come early in the day if you want to get photographs without other people present.
On the Famine Trail in Ireland
Visitors planning on exploring other parts of Ireland outside Dublin will find plenty of opportunities to learn more about the devastating 19th-century famine and the impact it had on the country. In County Roscommon, find the National Famine Museum, situated on the Georgian-era country estate of Strokestown Park.
The Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna, County Galway documents life in workhouses for the poor and destitute, while Cobh Heritage Centre in County Cork and the replica Dunbrody Famine Ship in County Wexford, recounts the journeys of emigrants driven from Ireland by the Great Famine.
Address: Dublin, Ireland
From $ 12
Fado Museum
Fado, a traditional music style popularized in the streets and taverns of Lisbon during the 1800s, is Portugal’s version of the blues. Birthed amid the underclass of the city, fado gradually gained popularity, moving out of seedy taverns and into upscale dance halls and theaters before falling out of fashion in the late 1970s.
The Fado Museum occupies a former pumping station in Lisbon’s Alfama District, the neighborhood where fado was born, and traces the history of the musical style through a collection of recordings, posters, costumes, vintage memorabilia and interactive exhibits. An onsite museum school offers courses in fado lyrics and Portuguese guitar. The museum shop sells albums by iconic fado artists — a lightweight souvenir by which to remember time spent in Lisbon.
Practical Info
The Fado Museum is closed on Mondays.
Address: Largo do Chafariz de Dentro 1, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: 5€
From $ 23
Falmouth Cruise Port
For many visitors taking a cruise to Jamaica, Falmouth Cruise Port is the first introduction to the island famous for its laid-back vibe. The port is right in Falmouth town, which is on the northern coast of Jamaica and located within one of the best-preserved colonial historic districts in the Caribbean.
The Basics
Founded in 1769, Falmouth, in Trelawny Parish, was named after then-Governor Trelawny’s birthplace in Cornwall, England. In the 1800s it was one of Jamaica’s busiest ports, trading sugar and rum, and it was also a place where plantation owners could buy and sell slaves. The town was meticulously planned, and many of the stately Georgian buildings still remain today. It’s a short walk from the cruise port into town to explore the historic center.
The cruise port opened in 2011 to accommodate a new breed of super cruise ships holding up to 5,400 passengers at any time. You’ll find everything from upscale jewelry shops to American chain restaurants and souvenir stores in the cruise terminal. Many cruise passengers choose to book island tours and shore excursions to make the most of their time in Jamaica, traveling to Ocho Rios and Dunn’s River Falls, exploring the Rio Bueno river, or learning about the lasting heritage of reggae musician Bob Marley, one of Jamaica’s most famous sons.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The official currency on the island is the Jamaican dollar, however US dollars are widely accepted.
- Keep an eye out for the stone cage in Falmouth harbour, it was built to hold drunk and disorderly sailors.
- The port is the pickup and drop-off point for many island-wide tours.
How to Get to Falmouth from the Falmouth Cruise Port
The Falmouth Cruise Port is located in the town of Falmouth, 18 miles (29 kilometers) east of Montego Bay. Most people visit the port while on a cruise to Jamaica, although it is also walking distance from the center of Falmouth.
Port Information
The port terminal is open when there are ships in harbour (often Tuesday-Thursday). On these days it is open from 9am-5pm, although the bars and restaurants are usually open later.
Address: Falmouth, Jamaica
From $ 65
Falkland Palace
Once the favored countryside retreat of the Stuart kings and queens, the magnificent Falkland Palace has seen a long list of famous royals pass through its grand gateway. First built as a hunting lodge in the 12th century, the residence was transformed into a French Renaissance-style palace in the 16th century by King James IV and King James V, complete with 3 hectares of parks, orchards and flower gardens.
Now a National Trust property, Falkland Palace is a popular tourist attraction and an easy day trip from Edinburgh, offering visitors a fascinating insight into the lavish lives of the Scottish royals. As well as exploring the beautifully restored Royal Apartments and drawing room, visitors can take a peek at the Royal Chapel, admire the fine artworks on display in the Tapestry Gallery and Edwardian Library, visit the Gatehouse and walk around the vast grounds. Don’t forget to visit the Royal Tennis Court, allegedly frequented by Mary, Queen of Scots and now Britain’s oldest tennis court still in use.
Practical Info
Falkland Palace is located in Fife, approximately 40 km north of Edinburgh and is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Adult admission costs £12.50.
Address: East Port, Falkland, Cupar, Fife, United Kingdom KY15 7DA, Scotland
Hours: Daily 11am-5pm
Admission: Adult £12.50
From $ 48
Family Home of John Paul II
Built around 1870, the tenement house at No 7 Kościelna Street where the Holy Father John Paul II was raised has been operating as a papal museum since 1984. Visitors may take a trip through different stages of the Holy Father’s life by touring the multimedia exhibition that invites reflection and shows what the climate and life was like in pre-war Wadowice. The museum attracts 300,000- 400,000 visitors each year to tour the few rooms in which John Paul was born and raised. The tour begins on the ground level and ascends by ramps to the top of the museum. The two main rooms of the original home are the central focus of the museum, with the multimedia exhibit constructed lovingly around them. The museum includes personal items that were meaningful in John Paul’s life, including the Vatican clock (which was stopped at the moment of his death) and the Polish bible, which was read to him by the sisters in his final moments.
Insider’s Tip: Be sure to try John Paul’s favorite cream cake (Kremowka), which can be found in most of the town’s bakeries and cafes.
Practical Info
Self-touring the museum is not allowed, but guided tours in different languages are included in the price of admission. The guided tour takes a little over an hour. On Tuesdays, entrance to the museum is free. No photography is allowed in the museum.
Address: Kościelna 7, Wadowice 34-100, Poland
Hours: May-September, 9am-7pm daily (last admission at 5:40pm); November-March, 9am-4pm daily (last admission at 2:40pm); April and October, 9am-6pm daily (last admission at 4:40pm)
Admission: 30 PLN includes guided tour
From $ 49
Farellones and El Colorado
These two connected villages, only an hour away from Santiago, comprise one of the most popular ski centers in the country, both because of their proximity to the capital and their high number of ski runs.
Ranging up to almost 11,000 feet (3,352 meters) above sea level, and with numerous ski classes available for those who need a refresher course, El Colorado is an ideal place to bring the family for a quick jump-start to the season. Nearly 70 runs graze the mountain in total, which receives an average snowfall of 15 feet (4.5 meters). Full equipment is available to rent.
With a BBQ grill, local supermarket, cozy pub, and coffee shop on the terrace (which boasts 'Swiss-Alpine' cuisine), the resort offers plenty of munchies post-piste—with scenic views to boot.
Photo courtesy of Dario Alpern via Wikimedia Commons.
Ranging up to almost 11,000 feet (3,352 meters) above sea level, and with numerous ski classes available for those who need a refresher course, El Colorado is an ideal place to bring the family for a quick jump-start to the season. Nearly 70 runs graze the mountain in total, which receives an average snowfall of 15 feet (4.5 meters). Full equipment is available to rent.
With a BBQ grill, local supermarket, cozy pub, and coffee shop on the terrace (which boasts 'Swiss-Alpine' cuisine), the resort offers plenty of munchies post-piste—with scenic views to boot.
Photo courtesy of Dario Alpern via Wikimedia Commons.
Address: Chile
From $ 32
Falkland
Flanked by the Lomond Hills in central Fife, the former royal burgh of Falkland is known for its twisting streets and centuries-old stoned houses. Dominating the town center is the famous Falkland Palace. Once the hunting lodge of the Stuart Monarchs, the palace was a favorite summer resort of Mary Queen of Scots.
Built by French masons on behalf of King James V, on a visit you’ll get to see its famous buttresses and turrets, and in the gardens lies Britain’s oldest royal tennis court, built in 1539.
The village is also known for its old horse market, Falkland Cricket Club, and famous golf club. Fans of the TV series Outlander may also recognize Falkland’s streets as the setting for the show’s opening scenes filmed in World War II.
Practical Info
You can take the bus to Falkland from St Andrews (30 minutes) or Cupar (15 minutes), which connects to Edinburgh and Glasgow via train. Falkland Palace on Main Street is open between March and October, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm. On Sunday, it is open from 1-5pm. Entry costs £12.
Address: Falkland, Fife, United Kingdom, Scotland
Hours: Falkland Palace on Main Street is open between March and October, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm. On Sunday, it is open from 1-5pm.
Admission: £12
From $ 16