Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in St John's
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Las Pumas Rescue Center
Las Pumas Rescue Center is located in the Guanacaste area near Cañas and serves to rescue, rehabilitate and ensure good conditions for wildlife in Costa Rica. The rescue center primarily caters to larger cats, but there are a number of local species that have benefited from the services at Las Pumas. In addition to the large cats, monkeys, deer and even parrots have been treated here, as well as two toucans that were rescued in 2007 after two men were caught trying to sell them.
The center was established in the midst of deforestation in the 1960s to promote wildlife rehabilitation and conversation efforts. The site fights against hunting, deforestation and poaching of wild animals in Guanacaste by taking in animals that have been removed from their natural habitat, seized by authorities or even brought in by concerned citizens.
It’s important to note that Las Pumas Rescue Center is not a zoo. Animals are rehabilitated with a goal of returning them to the wild; however, that isn't always feasible. Animals unfit to be released are continually cared for.
Practical Info
The Las Pumas Rescue Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (until 5 p.m. during high season) and is located at the Palo Verde National Park. Donations to the nonprofit organization are welcomed to help Las Pumas rehabilitate injured Costa Rican wildlife.
Address: Pan-American Highway, 4. 5km From Canas (Direction Liberia) | Canas, Canas, Costa Rica, Canas, Costa Rica
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; until 5 p.m. in high season
Admission: $10
From $ 100
Lau Pa Sat Market
The Lau Pa Sat Market in the busy business district is great place to go to enjoy some local food and take in the history of a building that is well older than many of the mega-structures that surround it. Built in the 19th century, the Victorian structure is basically a glorified food court, but with tons of great and inexpensive options.
The cast-iron structure housing the Lau Pa Sat Market has an old-time feel as the food is served from small vendors in a large dining hall made of small tables. Luckily, it is located walking distance from the Marina Bay between Raffles Quay and Robinson Road, making it ideal for a snack at almost any time.
Among the food selection is satay, soups, loads of fish, including sting ray, curry dishes and barbeque pork buns—a taste of several regional dishes infused with Singaporean tastes.
The cast-iron structure housing the Lau Pa Sat Market has an old-time feel as the food is served from small vendors in a large dining hall made of small tables. Luckily, it is located walking distance from the Marina Bay between Raffles Quay and Robinson Road, making it ideal for a snack at almost any time.
Among the food selection is satay, soups, loads of fish, including sting ray, curry dishes and barbeque pork buns—a taste of several regional dishes infused with Singaporean tastes.
Address: Singapore
From $ 62
Lavaux Vineyard Terraces
Used for growing grape vines since at least the 11th century (and probably as far back as Roman times), this 18-mile, 2,050-acre stretch of terraced vine-rows across the Swiss canton of Vaud is one of the world’s most remarkable examples of human interaction with a natural landscape. The southern-facing terraces, which maintain a mild climate within a country known for its spectacular winters, are famed for producing the Chasselas grape, which make a full, dry and fruity white wine that fueled the local economy for centuries.
While the Swiss wine industry doesn’t rival that of its neighbors in Italy and France, this area has remained in continuous, productive use, and its historic buildings, footpaths and vines have been well maintained and preserved. While there is clear evidence that the vines were cultivated by Benedictine and Cistercian monks, traces of Roman settlements here and in nearby Lausanne, a city which historically owes some of its wealth to the Lavaux wine industry, has led many to believe that ancient Romans also used the terraces for growing wine grapes.
While the Swiss wine industry doesn’t rival that of its neighbors in Italy and France, this area has remained in continuous, productive use, and its historic buildings, footpaths and vines have been well maintained and preserved. While there is clear evidence that the vines were cultivated by Benedictine and Cistercian monks, traces of Roman settlements here and in nearby Lausanne, a city which historically owes some of its wealth to the Lavaux wine industry, has led many to believe that ancient Romans also used the terraces for growing wine grapes.
Address: Switzerland
From $ 163
Leeum Samsung Museum of Art
The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, tucked away on the hills of Namsan, celebrates Korean and Western art and architecture from the past, present and future. The three buildings, each designed by a world-renowned architect, house works from the Samsung Foundation’s extensive art collection, ranging from ancient Buddhist artifacts to modern works of art.
The first building, designed by Mario Botta, houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and Korean ceramics, calligraphy and paintings. The second, designed by Jean Nouvel, covers Korean an international works of art from 1910 to the present. The third building, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is where you’ll find the Child Education and Culture Center.
Make sure to visit the top floor of Museum 1 to see the family’s private collection of Korean celadon pottery. To learn more about what you’ll be seeing, pick up an audio guide as you enter the museum or come on Saturday or Sunday afternoons for free English tours of the museum at 3pm.
The first building, designed by Mario Botta, houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and Korean ceramics, calligraphy and paintings. The second, designed by Jean Nouvel, covers Korean an international works of art from 1910 to the present. The third building, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is where you’ll find the Child Education and Culture Center.
Make sure to visit the top floor of Museum 1 to see the family’s private collection of Korean celadon pottery. To learn more about what you’ll be seeing, pick up an audio guide as you enter the museum or come on Saturday or Sunday afternoons for free English tours of the museum at 3pm.
Address: 747-18, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open Tue-Sun 10:30 am - 6:00 pm.
Admission: Permanent Exhibition: Adult 10,000won,Child/Senior 6,000won.
From $ 73
Latin Bridge
Curiously innocuous considering its momentous role in 20th-century history, the Latin Bridge spans the River Miljacka between Obala Culina Bana and Obala Isa-Bega Ishakovića in Sarajevo. Built in Ottoman times, its four stone arches date back to at least 1565 – although a wooden one may have preceded it – making it one of the oldest bridges in the city.
By the advent of the 20th century, Turkish rule in Bosnia had long been superseded by the expansion of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and unrest was brewing across Europe. On June 28, 1914, Serbian mercenary Gavrilo Princip assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie while they were on a state visit to Sarajevo, choosing the northern corner of the Latin Bridge to commit his crime and sparking the political events that lead directly to the outbreak of World War I. Today a plaque marks the spot, and there are portraits of Princip and Franz Ferdinand on the exterior of the Museum of Sarajevo 1878-1918, which stands by the Latin Bridge and chronicles the saga of the assassination and its tragic aftermath.
Practical Info
Located in Old Town (Star Grad), the bridge is accessible by foot and free to visit.
Address: Stari Grad (Old Town), Sarajevo, Sarajevo Canton 71000, Bosnia and Herzegovina
From $ 36
Laurel Forest (Laurisilva)
One of the many reasons why visitors come to Europe is to steep themselves in history. But the Portuguese island of Madeira is home to a piece of history that goes beyond the ruins of Rome and the battlefields of France – the Laurel Forest. Vegetation such as the kind found here used to carpet southern Europe, and it is believed that the forest is at least 15 million years old! Now it is a rare sight, and those going to Madeira put it high on their list of things to see.
The Laurel Forest, also called Laurisilva, holds a bounty of flora and fauna that astounds visitors – as well as a subtropical mist that gives it an ethereal ambience and makes the views from certain observation points that much more incredible. There are several long- and short-range hiking trails through this UNESCO World Heritage site that can accommodate various levels of ability. However, proper shoes and attire should be brought for the adventure, as well as food and drink.
Practical Info
The best point of entry to the Laurel Forest is in the village of Ribeiro Frio, about 45 minutes from Funchal. Follow the signs on foot along Highway ER103 from Ribeiro Frio to hiking route PR11, “Balcões.” It is a fairly level topography, and the walk to the (natural) observation point should take no more than an hour.
Address: Madeira, Portugal
From $ 29
Lefkara
A sleepy village tucked away in the foothills of the brooding Troodos mountains, historic Lefkara is charmingly picturesque and a popular stop on a tour of the surrounding mountains. Taking its name from ‘Lefka Ori’ or ‘White Mountains’, the village’s characteristic white stone buildings and timeworn cobblestones are its most distinctive asset and the small center can easily be explored on foot, admiring landmarks like the Church of the Holy cross along the way.
Lefkara is best known for its rich lace-making heritage, a unique tradition that dates back to the 15th century and was honored on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list back in 2009. Today, visitors to Lefkara can still see the local ladies creating the intricate, hand-stitched Lefkaritika lacework as they sit chattering in their shop fronts, as well as visiting the fascinating Handicraft Museum, where the art form takes center stage.
Practical Info
Lefkara is approximately 45km south of Nicosia in southern Cyprus.
Address: Lefkara, Cyprus
From $ 25
Leicester Square
Nestled between Soho, St. James’s, and the West End, Leicester Square is the intersection that never sleeps. Home to world-famous movie theaters, nightclubs, and a recently renovated park, the square attracts more than 2 million visitors each week. It has been popular as an entertainment hub since the 19th century.
The Basics
History buffs and other sightseers can learn about London’s past and present on a highlights tour, and Leicester Square is included on most comprehensive itineraries. Zip through the city by bike or taxi, or board a hop-on hop-off bus to tick off several landmarks in limited time. A walking tour offers an intimate perspective, while nightlife tours reveal the square’s after-dark attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- From nightlife revelers to film lovers and history buffs, Leicester Square offers something for everyone.
- Don’t forget your raincoat or umbrella during the rainier months.
- The public space itself won’t take long to explore, so combine your visit with other London landmarks to optimize your time.
- The pedestrian square has wide, flat walkways that are wheelchair-accessible.
- Most of the square’s attractions are wheelchair-friendly as well, though it’s worth calling ahead to check access arrangements.
How to Get There
Leicester Square has its own tube station. Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross stations are five minutes away. Several buses stop on Charing Cross Road, including hop-on hop-off services. As in all capital cities, driving yourself is best avoided; instead, take advantage of tours that include transfer for a hassle-free experience.
When to Get There
From a summer afternoon eating ice cream in the square’s central park to an evening stroll around the annual Christmas market, there is always something to do in Leicester Square.
An Alternative View
Typical sightseeing tours aren’t the only way to discover Leicester Square. Photographic tours can help you capture hidden monuments you might otherwise miss, like Shakespeare’s statue in the fountain. Karl Marx tours show visitors the socialist revolutionary’s old digs, just off the square, and explain the influences of the UK capital on his works.
Address: Leicester Square, London, England
From $ 19
Las Tintoreras
Las Tintoreras is a small group of islands where lava formations have created several different natural habitats, thus enabling a wide range of Galapagos wildlife to inhabit the area.
There is a lagoon that reef sharks come to rest in, mangroves that make for marine iguana breeding grounds and a beach where sea lions and other marine life flourish. The turquoise waters of the bay lead to a shallow crevice, which at low tide makes it easy to spot wildlife even without getting in the water. While visitors are not allowed to swim in these waters, the nearby beach area grants the opportunity to see the sea life from below.
Perhaps the most unique sight of Las Tintoreras are the Galapagos penguins. Whether it’s penguins and sea lions playing or marine iguanas perched on lava rock, Las Tintoreras is a unique spot to see much of the Galapagos wildlife in one place.
Practical Info
Las Tintoreras is a 10-minute boat trip from Puerto Villamil. It is located on the island of Isabela in the Galapagos, and trips require accompaniment with a certified guide.
Address: Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
From $ 87
Laurisilva Rainforests of Madeira
The mountainous interiors of these steeply pitched volcanic islands are draped with a unique and lush ecosystem, the Laurisilva Rainforests of Madeira. Named for its flowering laurels, these forests are marbled with waterfalls and home to hundreds of endemic species, many endangered though this was once one of Europe's most common biomes.
This type of subtropical humid forest begins at an elevation of around 300 meters (984 feet), reaching its cool, misty pinnacle atop Pico Ruivo (1,861m / 6104ft). Well-worn hiking trails and winding roads wend through these rich forests, some specifically protected as biogenic and natural reserves with admission fees, such as Vale da Ribeira da Janela and the Deserta Islands. Others are less formally accessible, such as those around Santana and on the Selagem Islands. All are protected as part of Madeira Natural Park.
This type of subtropical humid forest begins at an elevation of around 300 meters (984 feet), reaching its cool, misty pinnacle atop Pico Ruivo (1,861m / 6104ft). Well-worn hiking trails and winding roads wend through these rich forests, some specifically protected as biogenic and natural reserves with admission fees, such as Vale da Ribeira da Janela and the Deserta Islands. Others are less formally accessible, such as those around Santana and on the Selagem Islands. All are protected as part of Madeira Natural Park.
Practical Info
The Laurisilva Rainforests are scattered across the mountainous heights of Madeira and the surrounding islands. Any tourist office can point you toward maps, books, and tour operators that offer guided hikes and camping trips.
Address: Laurisilva Rainforest, Madeira, Portugal
From $ 45
Las Rozas Village
Just 30 minutes from downtown Madrid, Las Rozas Village is a shopper’s nirvana – a designer outlet village crammed with over 100 shops and boutiques. One of nine Chic Outlet Shopping malls in Europe, Las Rozas Village not only offers an impressive array of luxury brands and local designers, but shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 60%, plus tax-free shopping for non-E.U residents.
International designers at Las Rozas Village include Armani, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Versace and CH Carolina Herrera, as well as top brands like Diesel, Timberland and Pepe Jeans, jewelry boutiques like Swarovski, and Spanish favorites like Desigual and Custo Barcelona. There’s also a range of cafés and restaurants on-site and a play area for kids.
Practical Info
Las Rozas Village is located 24km northwest of Madrid and is open daily from 10am to 9pm, or 10pm on Saturdays.
Address: C/ Juan Ramón Jiménez, 3, Las Rozas, Madrid 28232, Spain
Hours: Open daily 10am-9pm, 10pm on Sundays
From $ 12
Lednice Castle
The village of Lednice is in the heart of the Czech Republic’s wine-growing region, southeast from Prague in South Moravia and famous for its fairy-tale castle surrounded by extensive parklands. The castle forms part of the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, which is UNESCO listed, and began life as 12th-century defence stronghold positioned on the former border between Czechoslovakia and Poland, although it has been transformed over the centuries into a stately Neo-Gothic palace.
There are three routes for exploring the interior of Lednice Castle, which was owned by the aristocratic Lichtenstein dynasty. Tours take in the lavish private apartments, the vaulted Knight’s Hall and the puppet museum. The manicured gardens contain a vast cast-iron glasshouse, built in 1845 and filled with tropical plants, while the Baroque master architect Johann Bernard Fischer von Erlach designed the riding school in the late 17th century; it stands almost unaltered today.
Hidden around the grounds are several follies—including an artificial cave—as well as a lakeside minaret, designed by Josef Hardmuth and completed in 1797; this was home to the Lichtenstein family’s collection of Oriental artifacts and a spiral staircase leads 302 steps up to an observation gallery in the 197-foot (60-meter) tower for glorious views over the estate. In summer boat cruises along the River Dyje are available along with carriage rides around the grounds and daily birds of prey shows. There are also several wineries close by for tasting the local vintages.
Practical Info
Státní zámek Lednice, Zámek 1, Lednice. Open Apr & Oct Sat–Sun 9am–5pm, May–Aug daily 9am–5pm; Sept Tue–Sun 9am–5pm. Admission adult 100 CZK; seniors 300 CZK, students & children 60 CZK; family 250 CZK. A 2.5-hour road trip from Prague.
Address: Státní zámek Lednice, Zámek 1, Lednice, South Moravia, Czech Republic 691 44, Czech Republic
Hours: Apr & Oct Sat–Sun 9am–5pm, May–Aug daily 9am–5pm; Sept Tue–Sun 9am–5pm
Admission: Adults: 100 CZK; Seniors: 300 CZK; Students & Children: 60 CZK; Families: 250 CZK
From $ 138
Laugardalur
East of downtown Reykjavik, Laugardalur is a favorite park among locals. Laugardalur means “hot spring valley,” and its hot pools were once the city’s main source of hot water. Up until the 1930s, women would come here to wash laundry. Today, you’ll find sports facilities, a music venue, playgrounds, and more.
The Basics
Laugardalur has everything you would expect from the capital’s largest recreation area. The centerpiece is a geothermally heated swimming pool. There’s also a soccer stadium, music venue, sports hall, running tracks, and an indoor ice rink, as well as the city’s only campsite, and an abundance of playgrounds, and picnic and barbecue areas. Some city sightseeing tours, including the hop-on hop-off bus, include a visit to Laugardalur.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Laugardalur is a must-visit for outdoor and sports enthusiasts.
- Laugardalur is one of the easiest geothermal pools to get to if you’re staying in Reykjavik.
- Entrance to the park is free but there is an admission fee for the pool.
- The pool has seven hot tubs (one filled with salt water) and a sauna.
How to Get There
Laugardalur is around 4 miles east of downtown Reykjavik. If you’re staying in the city center, bus No. 14 will take you to there.
When to Get There
The park is open every day, year-round. The swimming pool is most popular during warm summer days, but the hot tubs are equally appealing for warming up on a cold and frosty day.
Botanical Gardens and Zoo
Laugardalur is also known for its botanical gardens—home to a variety of arctic plants and flowers—and its small zoo, the only one in Iceland. The zoo houses common Icelandic farm animals, such as sheep and Icelandic horses, as well as seals, minks, reindeer, and arctic foxes. The gardens and zoo are open year-round, and there is a fee to enter the zoo.
Address: Reykjavik, Iceland
From $ 47
Lavapi es
Lavapiés is an area of Madrid outside of the old city walls that was once the Jewish and Moorish neighborhood. In 1492, the residents of the neighborhood were forced to either convert or leave. The neighborhood then became a working class area for hundreds of years and eventually fell into decay. This all changed in the 1980s and 1990s when immigrants and artists started moving into the abandoned buildings. It now has a bohemian and multicultural feel and is filled with galleries, bars, ethnic restaurants, and cafes.
Popular activities in this district include going to an independent cinema to see an international film, enjoying flamenco, and wandering through the flea market on Sundays. El Rastro is supposedly the largest flea market in the world. Another way to soak up the atmosphere is to find a cafe with outdoor seating and relax with a coffee or a beer. You'll experience a less touristy side of Madrid in Lavapiés.
Practical Info
Lavapiés is bound by Calle Atocha to the east, Ronda de Valencia to the south, Calle de Embajadores to the west, and Calle de la Magdalena to the north.
Address: Lavapiés, Madrid 28012, Spain
From $ 51
Legoland Discovery Centre Berlin
The LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is one of the largest LEGO boxes in the world, so it only makes sense that people come from all over to get creative and play with the 4 million LEGO pieces here. But it's not just piles of LEGOS.
Explore MINILAND, the Medieval Dragon Castle and the scientific LEGO Factory, and watch the exciting 4D Clutch Powers film. You can make your own real LEGO pieces at the factory, race LEGO cars in the Build and Test Centre or fly around high up on the magical Merlin ́s Apprentice carousel. See a miniature version of Berlin made out of LEGOS, or check out the mini Star Wars section, complete with scenes from Episode I built from these tiny pieces.
Practical Info
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Berlin is located in the Sony Center at Potsdamer Strasse 4. It is open from 10am to 7pm daily, with last admission at 5pm. Tickets are 8.95 euros at the door, and children ages 2 and under are free. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and adults are not allowed in without a child, though there are a few adult nights held throughout the year.
Address: Potsdamer Straße 4, Berlin, Germany
Hours: 10am-7pm daily, with last admission at 5pm
Admission: 8.95 euros, Children 2 and under are free
From $ 9
Lastarria
Lastarria is one of a few small, mostly cobblestoned neighborhoods in Santiago, and it is definitely one known for its indie fashion, antiques and popular restaurants. Lastarria heads north from the Alameda (Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins), near the Universidad Católica metro station and over a few blocks to the street Merced, an area with esoteric boutiques and stores such as Plop and Tienda Nacional that sell locally published books.
There is always something going on in between the Alameda and Merced, with antiques at the Plaza Mulato Gil and exhibits at the MAVI (Museum of Visual Arts) on the Merced side. The area is home to several shops that have taken space in an old mansion and sell trendy clothing from new designers as well as woven copper and crin (horesehair) jewelry, which is unique to Chile. Lastarria also encompasses some smaller streets, such as quiet Rosal, often the site of local photo shoots because of its old, colonial-style architecture. This street is also home to a bar that calls itself the “hidden bar” (Bar Escondido), though in truth, most everyone knows where to find it.
Practical Info
The most direct way to get to Lastarria is from the Universidad Católica metro. Combine a visit here with a trip to the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center for photo and sculpture exhibits (exhibits closed on Mondays, though the building is still open), or a walk in Parque Forestal, just a block north of Lastarria.
Address: Santiago, Chile
From $ 50
Leidarendi Lava Caves
With its tunnels of multi-hued lava tubes, dripping with stalactites and dotted with peculiar rock formations, the Leidarendi Lava Caves are a subterranean fantasyland. The Leidarendi caves take their name—which translates as “the end of the journey”—from the carcass of a dead sheep that is found at the end of a tunnel (you can still see the bones), but intrepid travelers needn’t worry as seasoned guides keep everyone safe.
The Basics
Exploring the Leidarendi Lava Caves is a popular adventure day trip from Reykjavik, with its rugged terrain requiring visitors to scramble, clamber, and crawl through the narrow passageways, using flashlights to light the way. The cave itself can only be accessed with a certified tour guide, and many full-day tours combine a lava caving adventure with activities such as snorkelling at the Silfra fissure, a swim in the Reykjadalur hot springs, or a Jeep or ATV tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cave tours include helmets, safety equipment, and full instruction, but bring warm clothes, hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, and plenty of water.
- Follow the rules and avoid touching or disturbing any of the cave’s natural structures in order to preserve the fragile rock formations.
- There is no cell phone coverage or WiFi at the Leidarendi Lava Caves.
- Due to the natural terrain, the Leidarendi lava tube is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for children under 5.
How to Get There
The Leidarendi Lava Caves are located just southeast of Hafnarfjordur, about a 30-minute drive from Reykjavik, and close to the Blue Mountains in southwest Iceland. There is no public transport to the caves, and most guided tours include round-trip transfers from Reykjavik.
When to Get There
The Leidarendi Lava Caves are open year-round, but the most popular time to visit is summer. Plan an early morning tour if you want to avoid the crowds and always book ahead to avoid disappointment. Visiting in winter means you will be at the mercy of the weather, although cancellations are rare.
Discovering the Land of Fire and Ice
The Leidarendi caves are one of the most accessible lava tubes in Iceland. The natural phenomenon was formed more than 2,000 years ago when hot magma flowed over already petrified lava. The network of caves run beneath the Stora-Holuhraun lava field for more than half a mile and are renowned for their spectacular lava formations, including solid lava streams, lava flakes, stalagmites, and stalactites, as well as natural ice sculptures, which form in winter.
Address: Hafnarfjordur, Iceland
From $ 90
Leeds Castle
A monument to Britain’s past, the grand Leeds Castle is among Europe’s best preserved medieval landmarks, with more than nine centuries of history represented. Sprawled over 500 acres (202 hectares) and surrounded by a regal moat, the stone castle and its gardens offer a peek into the past as well as a variety of present-day, quintessentially English events and activities.
The Basics
A trip to this royal 12th-century gem is essential for any visitor who wishes to truly understand Britain's venerable history, and its short distance from London through the English countryside makes it an easy day trip destination. The castle features medieval tapestries, furnishings, and art, as well as an exhibit covering the Gatehouse and the Dog Collar Museum. The outdoor maze, the Bird of Prey Centre (specializing in falcontry), the golf course, and the underground grotto offer other unique forms of Leed entertainment. The formal gardens, including Culpepper Garden, the Woodland Garden, and the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terrace, are additional highlights, and guests will find wildlife spotting opportunities with black swans, great spotted woodpeckers, and kingfishers frequently seen on the grounds. The castle is often visited on full-day group and private tours from London to southwestern England that also stop at areas such as the White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All tickets grant entry for one year from time of purchase, allowing for multiple visits.
- Families with kids can visit the onsite Squires’ Court Playground (ages 6 and under) and Knights’ Realm Playground (ages 7 and up) for royal fun.
- Rain is not unusual in England, so bring waterproof gear if you plan to be outdoors.
- Complimentary transport service on the grounds is available for those with limited mobility. The castle interior cannot accommodate strollers.
- Fee-based castle audio tours are available in six languages.
How to Get There
Leeds Castle is in Kent, England, one hour from central London and seven miles (11 kilometers) southeast of Maidstone. It’s a 30-minute drive from the Channel Tunnel and Channel Ports with signs directly drivers to the castle on all routes. To get around the grounds, visitors can traverse the moat on a punt boat ride, cross the Great Water from the castle to the maze on the Black Swan Ferry, or ride Elsie the Castle Train from the entrance to the castle (all require additional fees).
When to Get There
The castle is open daily from 10:30am to 4pm from October to March (last entry at 3:30pm) and until 5:30pm from April to September (last entry at 5pm). The grounds and gardens have longer hours, from 10am to 5pm from October to March and until 6pm from April to September. Weekend afternoons are the castle’s busiest time; weekday visits are much quieter.
Day Trips to Southwestern England
In addition to Leeds Castle, some of England’s finest sights can be found in this region, from Canterbury Cathedral to the famous Cliffs of Dover. Most tours cover the top sights and also stop at the outer London borough of Greenwich, known for its maritime history, the Royal Naval College, and the historic British clipper ship, the Cutty Sark.
Address: Leeds, England
Hours: Hours vary by season
Admission: Adults: £24.90; Children £16.90
From $ 71
Latvian National Opera
The Latvian National Opera House is home to both the Latvian National Opera and the Latvian National Ballet. Performances include modern operatic and ballet masterpieces, children’s performances and original Latvian works. During a typical season, more than 200 opera and ballet performances take place.
The Opera House was originally built in a neo-classical style in 1863 near the city’s canal. An 1882 fire destroyed a large part of the building and it was rebuilt according to the original design in 1887. A century later, the building underwent extensive renovations, including the foyers, coat rooms, staircases and stage, during which the capacity was reduced from 1,000 to 900. In 2001, a new annex known as the New Hall opened that includes additional performance space, seating 300 people.
Practical Info
Visitors are encouraged to dress up for opera or ballet performances, and to arrive early. Children three years of age and up are welcome to attend only family-friendly performances in the Great Hall and educational programs in the New Hall. Photography is not permitted during performances. Backstage tours are available for groups of 10 or more people and last approximately 45 minutes.
Address: Teatra iela, Riga LV-1050, Latvia
Hours: Varies
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Leadenhall Market
Leadenhall Market itself dates back to the 14th century, while its City of London location has links to Roman Londinium (AD 43). The ornate structure of today was designed by Sir Horace Jones in 1881, though the market has since swapped meat trade for modern retail, and adopted an alter ego as Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter film series.
The Basics
Whether you’re a history buff, fitness fan, or Harry Potter enthusiast, you’ll enjoy a visit to Leadenhall Market. Historical tours usually include other ancient London landmarks as well as the market. Active sightseers can zip through the city on a bike tour. Harry Potter lovers can search for the entrance to Diagon Alley on foot, or cruise by in an iconic black cab.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Unlike nearby Smithfield Market, Leadenhall is no longer a wholesale market, and as of 2018, there are few independent stalls.
- The market isn’t very big, so it’s worth combining your visit with other local landmarks.
- Leadenhall Market’s main draw is its impressive architecture, so don’t forget your camera.
- All public areas of the market are wheelchair accessible, though the main thoroughfare is gently cobbled.
How to Get There
Located in the historic center of London, the market is just a short walk from Bank and Monument underground stations, and about 10 minutes from Moorgate or Liverpool Street mainline stations.
When to Get There
Unlike the rest of the lively metropolis, the City of London itself goes very quiet during the weekend. If you’re looking for atmosphere, arrive on a weekday around lunchtime, when the market will be bustling with city workers.
Who was Sir Horace?
English architect Sir Horace Jones is best known for his design of Tower Bridge, as well as several City of London markets, including Smithfield. Jones’ architectural designs can still be explored today, providing unique insight into the city’s Victorian heritage.
Address: Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 1LR, England
From $ 16