Choose from 812 Fun Things to Do in Piedmont & Liguria
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Llanganuco Lakes (Lagunas Llanganuco)
Never in your life have you witnessed such an intoxicating shade of turquoise. Here at the mesmerizing Llanganuco Lakes in Huascaran National Park, twin dollops of turquoise water shine brilliantly against the snowcapped spine of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. The first lake, Chinancocha, has rowboat rentals for enjoying a view of the mountains from out on the water, and the second lake, Orconcocha, has a loop trail that offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding peaks. The tallest mountain in Peru, Huascaran, is visible from Llanganuco Lakes, which themselves are 12,631 ft (3,850m) where the air can feel thin when hiking. Even if you’re simply just standing by the water, there’s a sense of enchantment and mountain slope magic surrounding these lakes and this valley, where rugged cliffs rise in all directions as they seem to explode from the lakeshore. On tours that depart from Yungay or Huaraz, visitors will also make stops in villages and towns while en route to the lakes.
Insider's Tip: Try to visit early in the day to get the best colors in photos.
Practical Info
Since the Llanganuco Lakes are at such high altitude, be sure to bring jackets and winter clothes—even when visiting in summer. Be aware of the dangers of trekking at altitude and know the signs of altitude sickness, and by going with a guide you can experience much of the beauty you might otherwise miss.
Address: Llanganuco Lakes, Huascaran National Park, Peru
From $ 70
Louvre
Primarily associated with the steady gaze of Leonardo Da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa, Paris' Louvre museum is home to a 35,000-strong collection of paintings and sculptures considered one of the greatest in the world. The contemporary glass Louvre Pyramid heralds the museum's entrance, which millions of tourists flock to every year to feast their eyes on masterpieces that span from antiquity to the 20th century.
The Basics
How to Get to the Louvre
Located next to the Seine River in central Paris, the Louvre is easy to find. Catch Metro line 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal/Musee du Louvre station.
The Basics
Highlights of the antiquity section include the Seated Scribe, the Jewels of Rameses II, and the armless Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo. From the Renaissance, don't miss Michelangelo's Slaves sculpture or the famous works by Raphael, Botticelli, and Titian. French masterpieces from the 19th century include Ingres' La Grande Odalisque, Gericault's The Raft of the Medusa, and the work of David and Delacroix.
The large crowds attracted by the Louvre are evidence of the museum's global fame—book a skip-the-line ticket to avoid long lines and save precious sightseeing time. And whether you're a lifelong art fan or a creative novice, exploring the museum with a tour guide is an excellent way to ensure you see all of its highlights and hidden gems. Take a tailored private tour if your interests lie in a particular area, or opt for the skip-the-line and audio guide package if you prefer browsing independently. If you're short on time, choose a sightseeing tour that combines a visit to the Louvre with stops at the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and Notre Dame Cathedral, or take in city sights from the water on a Seine River cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Louvre always has big crowds—book skip-the-line entry to save time.
- Photography of certain major works inside the Louvre is prohibited.
- A Paris museum pass (valid for your choice of two, four, or six consecutive days) includes skip-the-line access at the Louvre and Musee d'Orsay, while also covering entry to other top attractions such as the Arc de Triomphe and Napoleon's Tomb.
- Family-friendly Louvre tours tailored to entertain children are available.
Located next to the Seine River in central Paris, the Louvre is easy to find. Catch Metro line 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal/Musee du Louvre station.
When to Get There
On Friday evenings, the Louvre stays open until 9:45pm, making it a great time to enjoy the museum with fewer crowds. You'll also see the pyramid majestically illuminated. From October through March, access to the Louvre's permanent collection is free for all visitors on the first Sunday of every month.
Address: Place du Louvre, Paris 75058, France
Hours: Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 9am–6 pm; Wednesday, Friday: 9am–9:45pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Lukang
Lukang is a sleepy Taiwan town where narrow winding streets are lined with old heritage buildings and quaint little shops. However, right up until the end of the 19th century the picture looked quite different, as Lugang was once a significant cultural and commercial center serving as the economic and transport hub of central Taiwan.
The Japanese invasion, the silting of its harbor, and a refusal to allow railroads to pass through the city eventually led to Lukang’s commercial decline. However, this lack of more development meant that the town avoided the process of modernization that saw historical buildings in cities such as Tainan and Taipei torn down. As a result, Lukang is one of the few big towns in Taiwan that remains preserved just as it was in its heyday.
Nowadays, visitors take day trips to Lukang to soak up all that history and sense of tradition. It’s a place to wander around local handicraft shops, stopping only to indulge in the distinctive cuisine that came about as a result of the town’s multicultural past. Lukang is also home to some 200 temples, including some of the most visually stunning Chinese temples in the whole of Taiwan.
Practical Info
To get to Lukang from Taipei, take the train to Changhua Station and head to the bus station across the street. From here, you can catch the bus to Lukang.
Address: Lukang, Taiwan
From $ 149
Les Abattoirs Museum
A former slaughterhouse has been given a much more positive lease on life at the Les Abattoirs Museum, now a contemporary art showcase for Toulouse and the Midi-Pyrénées region. The Modern Capital collection centers on the World War II period and the 1950s.
The museum’s permanent collection includes a wall-sized work by Picasso, while its various exhibition spaces display contemporary artworks that promise to confront, challenge and inspire. This imaginatively restored space also hosts a wide range of cultural expositions.
Practical Info
The Les Abattoirs Museum is on the right bank of the River Garonne, near the Pont des Catalans bridge. The closest metro stop is St Cyprien Republique.
Address: 76 Allée Charles de Fitte, Toulouse 31300, France
Hours: Wed-Sun 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Admission: €7
From $ 16
Little India
For subcontinental color, cuisine, and atmosphere, head to Singapore’s Little India, one of the island’s most vibrant districts. Shops, restaurants, street vendors, and colorful Hindu temples line the streets of Little India, making it an excellent place to take a walk. The culture and community center of Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is the neighborhood’s most important Hindu Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
The Basics
Walking tours of Little India take you past fragrant flower shops and through markets teeming with colorful fashions, foods, and traditional crafts. No tour would be complete without sampling some of the area’s best bites, as aromas of spicy curries and dosas waft from the neighborhood’s many street vendors. Many cultural and sightseeing tours of the city stop in Little India, as do the blue and red lines of the Singapore Flyer hop-on hop-off bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Little India is a must-visit for shoppers and foodies.
- Dive deep into the local culture on a walking tour, or catch the highlights on a citywide sightseeing tour.
- Bring cash with you, as many of the smaller shops and food stalls do not accept credit cards.
How to Get There
Getting to Little India by public transportation is a breeze; the easiest way is to take the MRT to Little India, Farrer Park, or Rochor stations. Over a dozen bus lines also service the neighborhood.
When to Get There
Shops in Little India tend to open mid-morning and often stay open late. Plan to visit at mealtime to take advantage of the great food, and if you want to see the district at its most colorful, plan your trip during a cultural festival like Diwali (Deepavali).
Best Bets in Little India
If you’re planning to do some shopping in Little India, don’t miss the Little India Arcade. This collection of wall-to-wall shops along Campbell Lane sells everything from framed prints of Hindu gods and goddesses to hand-embroidered saris. Open 24 hours, Mustafa Centre is an indoor market packed with all sorts of products. If you’re having trouble deciding what you want to eat, head to the Tekka Centre, Singapore’s best hawker center for Indian fare.
Address: Serangoon Road, 207474, Singapore
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Les Invalides
Built under the orders of Louis XIV beginning in 1670, Les Invalides—formally known as the Hôtel National des Invalides—was created as a hospital and care facility for wounded war veterans. Today, the site still serves that purpose, though the sprawling complex also comprises several museums, numerous courtyards, and Paris’ tallest dome.
The Basics
Located in the seventh arrondissement, Les Invalides is one of Paris’ most recognizable landmarks, and welcomes millions of visitors each year. In addition to its practical functions, the complex also contains three museums: the Musée de l’Armée (one of the world’s biggest collections dedicated to military history and art), the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (which contains historical models of fortified cities), and the Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération (a small museum that explores the French Resistance during World War II).
The jewel of Les Invalides is the Dôme des Invalides, which was inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Considered a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, the church’s gilded dome is, at 351 feet (107 meters) high, the loftiest in Paris. Within, the church houses the tombs of notable figures—most famously that of Napoleon Bonaparte. For those looking to explore further, Les Invalides is a frequent stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours; walking tour itineraries, meanwhile, make it simpler to navigate the enormous site, and also frequently include skip-the-line privileges.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A Les Invalides ticket includes entry to the Dôme (and the Tomb of Napoleon), the Saint-Louis Cathedral, the Charles de Gaulle Monument, and all three museums.
- In addition to its permanent collection, the Musée de l’Armée also hosts temporary exhibitions.
- Les Invalides is a popular destination for architecture lovers and history buffs, particularly those who are fascinated by military history.
How to Get There
Visitors can take Métro lines 8 or 13, or the RER C, to the Invalides stop. Les Invalides is also easily accessible on foot from other nearby attractions, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.
When to Get There
The Invalides complex is open daily from 7am–7:30pm (except on Tuesdays from April–September, when it closes at 9pm). Individual museums and on-site attractions have a range of visiting hours (and holiday closures), so be sure to research opening times in advance. Les Invalides also hosts and participates in a number of events throughout the year, including the International Automobile Festival, Nuit Blanche, Night at Les Invalides, concerts and film screenings, and more.
Les Invalides and the French Revolution
Les Invalides played an important role in the French Revolution: a mob stormed the site and took thousands of weapons, including guns and cannons, before continuing onward to the Bastille.
Address: 129 rue de Grenelle, Paris 75700, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Lyon Cathedral (Cath edrale St-Jean)
Though overshadowed by the ornate Basilica Notre Dame, the Romanesque-Gothic beauty of the Cathedrale St Jean is the more ancient and important of Lyon's lovely churches. At the heart of Old Lyon, it is the home of the Primatiale of the Gauls, supreme over all the archbishops of France. The title was granted in 1079, though it is now largely symbolic.
The angular facade, begun in 1175 and completed in 1476, opens onto a far more extravagant interior, with several soaring chapels, stained glass dating to the 1300s, and most famously, the 1598 astronomical clock. Saint John's most noted attraction can calculate religious dates (such as Easter) until 2019, as well as the positions of stars above Lyon. But you're really here to see it in motion, complete with mechanical bell ringers and roosters.
At the heart of Old Lyon, the ancient Cathedrale St Jean can be reached on the Metro D line, Vieux Lyon-St. Jean. Be sure to show up at noon, 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. to see the astronomical clock chime.
Next door, the 11th-century Manécanterie (Choir School) may be the oldest extant building in Lyon; it's free to visit and open daily.
Address: 70 rue Saint Jean, Lyon, France
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 81
Lille M etropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art
Lille's Museum of Modern Art (now called LAM) was founded on the savvy eye of Roger Dutilleul, a collector who began picking up work by Picasso and other soon-to-become influential painters in the 1900s. His son inherited his collection and used it as a basis for today's museum.
As well as Picasso and Braque there are works by such luminaries as Modigliani, Miró and Léger, as well as a sculpture park (more Picasso!) and a noted collection of art brut.
Practical Info
The Museum of Modern Art is on the outskirts of Lille. To get there, take Line 1 of the metro to Pont de Bois station, then jump on bus 41 to the Parc Urbain-Musee stop.
Address: 1 allée de Musée, Lille, France
Hours: Closed Tues
From $ 29
Les Halles
Affectionately known as “the belly of Paris,” Les Halles was once the sight of Paris’s bustling central food market, where vendors sold fresh meats, fish, and vegetables. A focal point of Paris since the 11th century, the food stalls were dismantled in 1971 to make room for the new Forum des Halles shopping center and metro station.
The Basics
With an abundance of cafés, restaurants, specialty food shops, and kitchen supply stores, Les Halles remains a destination for food lovers. Take a guided food tour of Les Halles and immerse yourself in French food and wine culture. Stroll through the vibrant pedestrian area of Rue Montorgueil and discover some of Paris’ best patisseries and boulangeries. The Les Halles neighborhood is also home to the Centre Pompidou, which houses the Musée National d’Art Moderne.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Les Halles is located in the 2nd arrondissement, walking distance from the Louvre.
- Les Halles is a must-see for foodies and wine enthusiasts.
- Rue Montorgueil is pedestrian-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
- The Centre Pompidou is a must-see for any first time visitors to Paris.
How to Get There
Les Halles is located in in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement, within walking distance of the Louvre. Les Halles is easily reached via public transportation from nearly anywhere in the city. The Châtelet-Les Halles station serves several regional city and metro lines, and is considered the biggest underground station in the world.
When to Get There
Les Halles is a lively destination at all hours of the day. During the summer months, start your day early to avoid large crowds. Les Halles is known for some of the best jazz bars and nightclubs in the city making it a great place to explore in the evening as well.
Visiting the Centre Pompidou
Located between the Les Halles neighborhood and the Marais, the Centre Pompidou’s fascinating industrial facade is a work of modern art in itself. The center is home to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, which houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of modern art, including pieces by Picasso, Matisse, Léger, and others. Centre Pompidou is a popular sight, so book tickets and tours in advance to save time in lines.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 45
Lourdes Grotto
Named in honor of the famous French Catholic landmark, Lourdes Grotto is a beautiful shrine carved into the side of a limestone hill in the San Nicholas area of Oranjestad. Built in 1958 by a local priest and his parishioners, the Lourdes Grotto is now complete with a 1,500-pound statue of the Virgin Mary. This touching homage to the Roman Catholic religion is a must for those interested in visiting Aruba’s holy sites.
Practical Info
Lourdes Grotto is free to visit and located in Seroe Preto, north of Oranjestad.
Address: Seroe Preto, Aruba
From $ 69
León Cathedral
The largest church in Central America, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed León Cathedral is a must-see while in León, a charming colonial city in Nicaragua’s northwest corner. The cathedral combines a striking blend of architectural styles with religious import and pirate-riddled history, making for a church visit unlike any other.
The Basics
Covering an entire block in León’s city center, the Cathedral of León (Basílica Catedral de la Asunción) is impossible to miss. After admiring the blend of baroque, neoclassical, and Gothic architectural elements that give the church its striking appearance, head inside to climb a narrow staircase to the domed roof. From here, you can see panoramic views of León, the La Libertad bell that announced Central America’s independence in 1821, and the historic cannons that were used during an 1824 siege of the city. In the cellar, a series of tunnels connects the cathedral to other León churches; visit on a guided tour to learn about the frequent pirate attacks that prompted their construction and walk inside three of the historic tunnels. For a more robust and hassle-free experience, visit the cathedral as part of a León city sightseeing tour or a day tour from Managua.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Quickly admire the building’s facade or plan to spend up to two hours exploring inside.
- Roof access requires some agility and shoe removal.
How to Get There
The León Cathedral is located in the city’s central plaza, right next to its main park. Leon is a popular day trip destination from Managua and a shore excursion trip from San Juan del Sur and Corinto.
When to Get There
The cathedral is open Monday through Saturday from 8am to 12pm and from 2pm to 4pm. Visit early in the day for the smallest crowds.
Other Cathedral Sights
In addition to its architectural beauty and rooftop views, cathedral visitors will also see the tomb of famous Nicaraguan poet Rubén Darío, whose final resting place is guarded by a weeping marble lion, and a statue of a black Christ that bears the hack wounds of a pirate attack.
Address: Avenida Central, Leon, Nicaragua
Hours: Varies
Admission: $6
From $ 45
Lille Museum of Fine Arts (Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille)
Lille's Fine Arts Museum (Palais des Beaux-Arts) is giant—only the Louvre tops its size among France's museums—and its collection is suitably illustrious. Instituted in 1801 as part of Napoleon's push to bring art to the masses, the museum is housed in a splendid Belle Époque building dating from the late 1890s.
Stroll through the rooms and you'll find all the stars: Rubens and van Dyck, Picasso and Redon, Corot, Delacroix and David. Additionally, there is a wonderful decorative arts collection and a special curio: a selection of 18th-century models of fortified cities.
Practical Info
To get to the Palais, take Metro Line 1 to Republique station or bus 14 to place de la République.
Address: Place de République, Lille 59000, France
From $ 16
Lille Old Town (Vieux Lille)
It's in Vieux Lille, the Old Town of the city, that the Flemish dash to Lille's character can be most clearly seen. The red brick buildings and narrow cobbled lanes have a distinct Belgian feel.
The quarter had fallen into disrepair, but now it's been cleaned up and houses the regular Euro-old town collection of bars, boutiques, and restaurants.
This is where many of the city's premier sites are located: the town museum located in the 13th-century Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse, the Cathedrale Notre Dame de la Treille, and the birthplace of Charles de Gaulle. But sightseeing aside, this is a trés pleasant place to lose yourself on a sunny day, stopping only to test out another restaurant or ogle some designer fashion.
Practical Info
Lille Old Town is centred around rue d'Angleterre, place du Lion-d'Or and rue de la Monnaie.
Address: Lille, France
From $ 16
Luquillo Beach
Puerto Rico’s Luquillo Beach (Playa Luquillo), also known as Balneario Monserrate, is a tranquil crescent famed for its coconut palm trees and long stretch of powdery white sand. Considered one of the island’s best public beaches, the calm waters here are perfect for swimming, wading, kayaking, and other water sports.
The Basics
With El Yunque National Forest blooming in the background, it’s easy to see why this beautiful beach is such a draw. A fringe reef protects Luquillo Beach from raging surf, so families find it a great place to bring young kids who are often found frolicking in the calm water. Local food kiosks that dot the area are frequented for beachside eating, though locals often set up their own grills and have hearty barbecues. Beach umbrellas and lounge chairs are available for rent, as are kayaks for personal use or kayaking tours. Guided tours that include Luquillo Beach depart from Old San Juan and may combine the beach stop with visits to El Yunque, the Camuy Caves, and the bioluminescent bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a small entrance fee to use the beach; guided tours usually include this fee.
- The beach has restrooms, changing stations, showers, lifeguards, and paid parking.
- Food kiosks on the beach sell everything from burgers to ceviche; picnics are also a good option.
How to Get There
Puerto Rican buses and jitneys are available, but it is most convenient to rent a car or visit on a guided beach tour. Via car, depart San Juan on Route 3 toward Luquillo.
When to Get There
Puerto Rico is generally very busy in December through February, as it’s a hot spot for those escaping the mainland United States’ frigid winters. Aim to visit in the spring, after the tourist glut and before the hot, rainy season. Luquillo Beach can get quite crowded on summer weekends, when it fills up with local families.
Things to Do Near Luquillo Beach
Near Luquillo Beach is the lush El Yunque Rain Forest, which features hiking trails, La Coca Waterfall, Yokahú Observation Tower, and plenty of local flora and fauna. Another don’t-miss sight is the nearby bioluminescent bay, where visitors can swim in waters that light up with glowing phytoplankton after dark.
Address: Puerto Rico
From $ 92
Lochnagar Crater
Often nicknamed the Glory Crater, the 80-meter wide and 30-meter deep Lochnagar Crater was created by a mine detonation executed by the 179th Tunneling Company Royal Engineers on the first day of the now-infamous Battle of the Somme at precisely 7:28 a.m. The mine itself consisted of 27 tons of explosives and was planted by Welsh miners in a secret tunnel between the English/French and German fronts in La Boisselle. The men had to work in a discreet yet highly effective manner, using bayonets with spliced handles for silence and working barefoot on a floor covered with sandbags. Spoil was passed hand-by-hand in sandbags and stored along the side of the tunnel. It would eventually be used to tamp the charge during the detonation. The men excavated the passageway at a rate of about 46 centimeters per day, eventually reaching 1,017 feet (310 meters) long, 2.5 feet (0.75 meters) wide and 4.5 feet (1.4 meters) high—unbeknownst to the German troops.
The crater has been preserved as a memorial ever since the end of the war, with a special service held at 7:28 a.m. on the first of every July, kick-starting the yearly Battle of the Somme commemorations. Visitors should know that Lochnagar Crater is the only remaining war-era crater that is open to the public and that the crater was named after Lochnagar Street, the trench from which the gallery was originally driven.
Practical Info
Lochnagar Crater is located 158 kilometers north of Paris just past Amiens. It can be reached via route A1 and D938 in less than two hours. There are no entrance fees.
Address: D20, Route de la Grande Mine, Ovillers-la-Boisselle 80300, France
From $ 150
Left Bank (Rive Gauche)
The Seine separates Paris into two halves: to the north is the Right Bank, and to the south is the Left Bank. Also known as the Rive Gauche, the Left Bank is home to some of the city’s top landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower. Thanks to its universities and famous former residents, the Rive Gauche retains a romantic, literary reputation.
The Basics
From world-famous monuments to world-renowned universities, the Left Bank encompasses a variety of neighborhoods, communities, and Parisian attractions. Among its highlights are the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, Invalides, the Jardin du Luxembourg, and the Catacombs of Paris, though that represents just a fraction of what the area offers. Broadly, the Left Bank is renowned for its intellectual and cultural aplomb. The Sorbonne and Shakespeare & Co are two legendary institutions in the vibrant Latin Quarter, and the area was once popular with writers and artists ranging from Gertrude Stein and Pablo Picasso to Jean-Paul Sartre.
Depending on your interests, there are dozens of ways to discover the Left Bank and its sights. Hop-on hop-off busses, Segways, and bike tours all offer overviews of the area, while private driving tours let you customize your itinerary. Alternatively, soak up the Rive Gauche’s je ne sais quoi ambience on a walking tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- While the Left Bank contains only six arrondissements (compared to the Right Bank’s 14), its status as a cultural heavyweight makes it just as important and diverse.
- If you haven’t pre-booked Eiffel Tower entry, venture instead to the Tour Montparnasse, which offers impeccable views of the Left Bank and beyond.
- Visit the iconic Café de Flore to people watch—and to see the spot where Pablo Picasso and Simone de Beauvoir spent their time.
How to Get There
The Rive Gauche is home to several major stations (including the Gare d’Austerlitz and Gare Montparnasse), which are served by the TGV, RER, and numerous Métro and train lines. Dozens of other Métro stations and bus lines traverse the area. Paris is also a city that rewards walkers and cyclists, and the Left Bank is no exception.
When to Get There
Paris is picturesque in all seasons, and there’s never a bad time to visit the Left Bank (although, like the rest of the French capital, it’s quietest in August). During the warmer months, linger in the Jardin du Luxembourg, stroll the Jardin des Plantes, or enjoy Eiffel Tower views from the Champ de Mars. When the thermostat drops, explore museums like the Musée d’Orsay, Musée de Cluny, or the Musée de l’Armée at Invalides.
Famous Left Bank Eateries
It isn’t a Left Bank tour without a bite (or several) to eat. Venture to the iconic Poîlane bakery for fresh bread; browse the lively street market on the Rue Mouffetard; sample macarons at Pierre Hermé; and go to a classic restaurant, like La Closerie des Lilas, for dinner.
Address: France
From $ 29
Lido de Paris
With a history dating back to the 1940s and a prime location on the glittering Champs-Elysees, Lido de Paris is one of Paris’ most famous and celebrated cabarets. The legendary show is a feast for the senses, with mesmerizing choreography, dazzling costumes, a medley of foot-stomping show tunes, the famous Bluebell Girls—and, in true French fashion, Champagne.
The Basics
Lido de Paris guests can expect to be truly wowed. Advance booking is essential, as tickets can sell out weeks in advance, especially during busy periods. Two 90-minute shows are performed each evening, with lunch and matinee shows held on select days. You can choose to enjoy a pre-show dinner and/or Champagne, opt for a private hotel transfer, or combine the show with a guided night tour of the City of Light.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a smart-casual dress code—shorts, sportswear, flip-flops, and sneakers are not permitted.
- A coat check is available and is free for guests.
- Taking photos or videos is not permitted during the show.
- Lido de Paris is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Lido de Paris, on the Champs-Elysees in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, is a five-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. The closest metro stop is George V, and the nearest RER A train station is Charles de Gaulle–Etoile.
When to Get There
Lido de Paris has performances every day of the year. For last-minute tickets and deals, it’s best to visit in low season (November to March) or opt for a weekday show. The hottest tickets of the year are the special Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve shows, accompanied by a six-course gourmet dinner and plenty of Champagne.
The Magic of “Paris Merveilles”
Over the years, stars such as Elton John, Elvis Presley, Edith Piaf, and Shirley Maclaine have performed at the iconic Lido de Paris cabaret, while in-house entertainers include the famous Bluebell Girls, the Lido Boys, and the Lido Orchestra. Franco Dragone’s “Paris Merveilles” show, a 90-minute extravaganza devoted to the wonders of Paris, features spectacular sets that include an ice rink, a gigantic chandelier, and water fountains, plus unforgettable acts with burlesque dancers, acrobats, magicians, and mimes.
Address: 116 Bis Avenue Champs Elysées, Paris 75008, France
Hours: Shows at 1pm, 3pm, 7pm, 9pm and 11pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 98
Lyon Les Halles Paul Bocuse
The covered markets of the Les Halles de Lyon have been open since 1970. The full name of the markets includes the name Paul Bocuse, a legendary figure on both the French and international cooking scene. Many of the shops located here are star-rated by the Michelin guide, and more than 95% of the shops are run by business owners who really know their products. These are local businesses, which draws in loyal customers.
There are approximately 60 shops in Les Halles selling products that have to do with cooking and food. You'll find butchers, bakers, caterers, fishmongers, and more selling their high quality fresh products. It is also a showcase for local food products and a great place to find good meats, poultry, seafood, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables. You can also enjoy a sit down meal with a glass of wine at the markets.
Practical Info
Les Halles de Lyon is located at 102 Cours Lafayette.
Address: 102 Cours Lafayette, Lyon 69003, France
From $ 405
Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
With more than 61 acres (25 hectares) of flower-lined lawns, formal French gardens, and shady chestnut groves, the Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are one of Paris’ most idyllic green spaces. On sunny afternoons, this is the Left Bank picnic spot of choice for fashionable Parisians.
The Basics
No sightseeing tour of the Latin Quarter and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood would be complete without a stroll through the manicured Luxembourg Gardens, a perfect spot for walking tour or biking tour. In addition to admiring the sculptures and monuments—including the Marie de Médicis fountain and the Pavillon Davioud—visitors can explore the Luxembourg Palace (Palais de Luxembourg), tour the Luxembourg Museum (Musée de Luxembourg), and stroll around the Orangerie, a 19th-century building that still houses citrus trees. Feeling romantic? Take advantage of the scenery and renew your wedding vows here—it’s become a popular trend in recent years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no admission fee to enter the park, but opening hours vary throughout the year.
- The park is fully wheelchair accessible, and accessible restrooms are located at the Auguste-Comte entrance.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in the park.
How to Get There
The Luxembourg Gardens straddle Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter in Paris’ 6th Arrondissement on the Left Bank of the Seine River. Bordered by Rue de Vaugirard to the north, Rue Auguste Comte to the south, and Rue Guynemer and Boulevard Saint-Michel to the west and east, the park is reachable on foot from the Latin Quarter and nearby attractions such as the Panthéon (a 10-minute walk). The closest metro station is the Odeon (Line 6) and the nearest RER station is Luxembourg (Line C).
When to Get There
The park is open year-round; each season has its charms. You’ll find open-air entertainment and festivals in summer, flowers in spring, foliage in autumn, and Christmas decorations around the holidays. The park gets busy on sunny afternoons, so if you’re hoping to take photos with crowd-free backgrounds, aim for an early-morning visit.
Family Fun at the Luxembourg Gardens
The park has a number of family-friendly activities. Take the kids to visit the beehives, try their hand at a pony ride, steer a rented model sailboat around the Grand Bassin lake, or play tennis. There’s also a playground, plus puppet shows, at the pint-sized Théâtre du Luxembourg.
Address: Boulevard St Michel, Paris 75006, France
Hours: Daily from 8am until sunset (7:30am in Summer).
Admission: Free
From $ 372
Lesotho
Lesotho is an independent country that is surrounded on all sides by South Africa – it's an enclave within another country.
The official name of the country is the Kingdom of Lesotho, and it occupies just over 11,500 square miles high in the mountains. It holds the distinction of being the only independent country in the world where the entire country is above an elevation of 1,000 meters (3,281 feet). The population is almost entirely Sotho, the people who gave the country its name.
Lesotho gained independence from the UK in 1966 – before that was it called Basutoland. The small country remains largely agricultural, and it's a draw for visitors to South Africa who are keen to see traditional Sotho life in person. Those with more time to spare can enjoy the incredible hiking and see the mighty Semonkong Falls.
Practical Info
A day trip to visit the Kingdom of Lesotho from Durban is a long day—12 to 13 hours—but you'll get to see the dramatic countryside of the Drakensberg mountains, stop in historic Himeville, and experience the mountain nation all in one day. It's best to book this trip with a guide, since the Sani Pass (which you must cross to get to Lesotho) requires a 4x4 vehicle and someone who knows the dangerous road.
Address: Lesotho, South Africa
From $ 218