Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in The Whitsundays & Hamilton Island
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Barberini Palace
Barberini Palace (Palazzo Barberini) is one of the most beautiful palaces in Rome, built by the city’s great Renaissance architects: Carlo Maderno, Francesco Borromini, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Now home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art, the palazzo contains an important collection of paintings from the 13th to 18th centuries.
The Basics
Worth a visit for the architecture itself, the 17th-century Palazzo Barberini has a soaring marble facade with three tiers of arches—the upper two glazed to form towering windows—facing a semi-enclosed courtyard. Inside, Borromini’s remarkable spiral staircase leading up to the piano nobile (main level), and the Grand Salone decorated by Pietro da Cortona's Baroque Allegory of Divine Providence and Barberini Power ceiling fresco, influenced the art and architecture of later palaces across Europe. The magnificence of this Renaissance palace now forms the backdrop to some of the most beautiful paintings in Rome, including Raphael's La Fornarina, a portrait of King Henry VIII by Hans Holbein, Guido Reni's portrait of Beatrice Cenci (beheaded for patricide in 1599), and a number of works by Filippo Lippi, Titian, and Caravaggio—including his unforgettable depiction of Judith Beheading Holofernes.
To fully appreciate Barberini Palace’s important architecture and artistic masterpieces, consider joining a private tour of the National Museum of Ancient Art that includes skip-the-line tickets and a guide. Some Rome night tours and walking tours include a stop by the palace to view its facade, courtyard, and garden...an excellent option for touching on the city’s highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Large bags and backpacks must be left in the lockers near the entrance.
- This is an especially interesting stop for art lovers who want to avoid the crowds in Rome’s more famous museums.
- The palace’s Renaissance garden is open for free to the public daily all year.
How to Get There
Palazzo Barberini is located just off Piazza Barberini, one of the main bus and metro hubs in the city. A number of bus routes and metro line A have stops in the square, and from there it is just steps to the museum entrance.
When to Get There
The museum is closed on Mondays, but open throughout the day the rest of the week. Visit around midday when most the museum is quiet to enjoy the collection virtually to yourself.
Galleria Corsini
Rome’s National Gallery of Ancient Art is located on two sites: Palazzo Barberini and Galleria Corsini. The latter is set in Palazzo Corsini, an 18th-century Baroque palace in Trastevere on the opposite side of the Tiber river next to Villa Farnesina. The palace is home to a beautiful botanical garden covering the slopes of Janiculum hill in addition to a collection of paintings by primarily Italian artists dating from the early Renaissance to the late 18th century.
Address: Via delle Quattro Fontane 13, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Barbizon
Known as the “Village of Painters,” Barbizon is a little town of around 1,500 people perched on the edge of the Fountainebleau Forest just outside Paris. Famous for the Barbizon art movement of French Revolution fame, Barbizon was the place where many artists headed at the time. Inspired by the rural paintings of English painter John Constable, the school of artists found the village’s fields and surrounding Fountainebleau Forest central to their work.
The area’s most famous painters, Théodore Rousseau and Jean-François Millet, made their homes, lived their lives and ultimately died in the village. Millet is especially famous for his paintings of peasant figures working the fields. He purposely hid the peasant’s faces and gave them bent figures to show their anonymity and the difficulty of their lives, a huge step away from the formal aristocrat portraits of the time.
The Barbizon movement of 1830-1870 also inspired the next generation of French artists; impressionists such as Monet, Renoir and Alfred Sisley all discovered the joys of painting in the Fontainebleau Forest.
In Barbizon village, it’s popular to take a stroll down the Grand Rue to see its stone houses and discover its restaurants. There are several museums and artists’ studios to visit in town, too.
Practical Info
Barbizon is located about 35 miles and 45 minutes southeast of Paris. If arriving by public transport, SNCF trains leave every 30 minutes from Paris’ Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon. From there, a taxi can be taken to the village of Barbizon.
Address: Barbizon, Paris, France
Hours: Daily
From $ 139
Banpo Bridge
Banpo Bridge passes over the Han River in downtown Seoul, connecting the Yongsan and Seocho neighborhoods. This girder bridge, completed in 1982, entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2009 for installing the longest bridge fountain in the world, the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, which puts on a nightly water-and-light show.
The Basics
Some 380 water jets on both sides of Banpo Bridge pump water from the Han River to a fountain display meant to resemble willow branches in the wind. When the sun goes down, the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain lights up, and 20-minute shows add music to the spectacle. Many guided nighttime tours via bus or bike, or on foot, include a stop at the bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banpo Bridge at night is a must-see for couples and families traveling with children.
- Dress in layers; the temperature can drop once the sun goes down.
- The best views of the fountain are from Banpo Hangang Park.
How to Get There
To get to Banpo Bridge, take Seoul Subway Line 3, 7, or 9 to the Express Bus Terminal Station and leave through Exit 8-1. It’s a short walk to the bridge from there.
When to Get There
The Banpo Bridge fountain only operates from April to October, and showtimes change from month to month. When the weather is nice, the park at the base of the bridge makes a pleasant spot for an evening picnic dinner while you wait for the fountains to come to life. Fountain shows are canceled in the event of rain.
Banpo Hangang Park
Situated on the southern side of the Han River at the end of Banpo Bridge, Banpo Hangang Park is not only a popular spot for watching the fountain show, but also it attracts visitors and locals to its playgrounds, sports facilities, and riverside café. Nearby Seoraeseom Island is a popular spot for picnics during the spring and summer months.
Address: Seobinggo-dong Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 40
Banjar Hot Springs
Set in the hills west of Lovina, Banjar Hot Springs (Air Panas Banjar) are among Bali’s most beautiful. Dragon-head fountains feed three tiered pools that are surrounded by tropical forest and palms. Guests also have the use of lockers, changing rooms, a restaurant, and a simple spa.
The Basics
There is a small charge to enter Banjar Hot Springs and another for a locker. You don’t need to join a tour to visit; it’s easy to hire a private driver for the day, or you can self-drive from nearby Lovina. However, if you’re based in south Bali, a tour that combines Banjar Hot Springs with other north and central Bali destinations, such as Lovina, Munduk, and Bedugul, makes sense.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banjar Hot Springs will appeal to adults and families with older kids; time in the hot water should be carefully limited for children under the age of 5.
- The temperature of the waters is about 100°F (38°C).
- You can bring your own swimming things, or purchase towels and swimwear at the springs.
- Visiting Banjar Hot Springs involves climbing steps with no wheelchair access.
How to Get There
Banjar Hot Springs are in north Bali, a few miles southwest of Lovina, in the hills near the village of Banjar. If you’re staying in Lovina, you can drive yourself or arrange for a private driver. It can take as long as four hours to reach Banjar Hot Springs from Ngurah Rai International Airport, so if you’re touring from south Bali, it pays to hire a driver.
When to Get There
Banjar Hot Springs are open daily, from morning until early evening. To avoid crowds, don’t go on weekends or Indonesian public holidays. Instead, visit on a weekday morning, before the Indonesian school day ends.
Bali Hot Springs
Indonesia is home to more active volcanoes than any nation on earth. One benefit of all that underground activity is a wealth of hot springs, including some so scalding that bathing would be lethal. Banjar Hot Springs and the hot springs on Lake Batur, Kintamani, are Bali’s best hot springs.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 46
Bantama High Street
As the second busiest city in Ghana after the capital, Kumasi has developed a thriving nightlife scene, and one of the top hot spots for weekend people-watching or after-dark drinks is Bantama High Street. This stretch of road is lined with open-air pubs serving libations and kebabs, and it’s particularly lively from Thursday through Sunday.
While not exactly a chic nightlife destination (plastic chairs and tables along the sidewalk are the norm) it’s a fun and relaxed area to enjoy a drink and the atmosphere of local Ghanaian nightlife.
Practical Info
As Bantama High Street is one of Kumasi’s top nightlife districts, it sometimes attracts pickpockets. Be aware of your surroundings and leave your valuables in the hotel, and you shouldn’t have a problem.
Address: Bantama, Kumasi, Ghana
From $ 20
Bardo National Museum
If you want to understand the complex history of Tunisia, a visit to the Bardo National Museum is a good place to start. The country’s top museum – one of the largest in Africa – is housed within a fifteenth century Hafsid palace and displays a collection of archaeological artifacts and works of art spanning the totality of Tunisia’s history.
The highlight of the impressive collection is the collection of well preserved Roman mosaics – one of the best collections in the world. Other notable pieces include early Islamic ceramics, rare Phoenician artifacts and an ornate baptismal font dating back to the end of the sixth century.
Practical Info
The Bardo National Museum is very large with a vast collection; leave yourself at least a couple of hours to enjoy it.
Address: Route Nationale 7, Tunis, Tunisia
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm
Admission: 11 TND
From $ 9
Banke Bihari Temple
The 19th-century Banke Bihari—one of India’s most famous temples—in Vrindavan houses an idol of Lord Krishna that devotees believe will cause them to faint if they look into its eyes. As such, the idol is kept behind a curtain that’s swiftly opened and closed, allowing worshipers to catch quick glimpses of the god safely.
The Basics
Worship at this temple, founded by Shri Swami Haridas in 1846, is divided into three different acts of service (sewas) to the deity: Shringar (in which the idol is bathed and dressed); Rajbhog (the feeding of the idol); and Shayan (preparing the idol for sleep). Thousands of devotees visit Banke Bihari—one of many names for Lord Krishna—every day for worship. Most international visitors who come here do so as a stopover between Agra (home of the Taj Mahal) and Delhi, or during day tours from Delhi with stops in Vrindavan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is in a pedestrianized area with lots of little shops and narrow lanes, so be prepared to do some walking.
- Watch out for monkeys in the area; they’re known to steal glasses right off of the heads of unsuspecting visitors.
- Remember to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- You must remove your footwear before entering the temple.
- If you come during Holi, the annual festival of colors held throughout Northern India, be prepared to be covered with powdered colors by passing revelers—and wear clothes you don’t mind ruining.
How to Get There
The Banke Bihari Temple is located in the heart of the holy city of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh, just off the road that runs between Delhi and Agra. It's about a 10-minute drive from Vrindavan’s other major temple attraction, the ISKCON (Hare Krishna) temple, and about a 25-minute drive from the town of Mathura, Vrindavan’s twin city. Many visitors come as part of an organized tour.
When to Get There
The Banke Bihari Temple is open throughout the year, though it's at its busiest around sunset. One of the most auspicious times to visit is for the special aarti (prayer ceremony) on Krishna Janmashtami, usually in September, which marks the birthday of Lord Krishna.
Lord Krishna
Lord Krishna is one of the most recognizable—and most loved—Hindu deities, and many believe that he once lived in the Vrindavan-Mathura area. An avatar of the preserver god Vishnu, Krishna is depicted in various forms. His skin is usually a light blue and he’s often depicted with playing a flute. He’s also sometimes shown as a plump baby with his hand in a butter jar (owing to a legend about him stealing butter).
Address: Mathura District, Vrindavan, India
From $ 47
Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat in Ipoh claims to be Malaysia’s first luxury natural hot springs center. Offering a wide range of wellness facilities and relaxation treatments, the Banjaran’s real star quality is the beautiful natural landscape in which it’s situated. The retreat is characterized by dramatic limestone rocks, gushing waterfalls, geothermal hot springs, and natural caves, plus it’s surrounded by lush rainforest-carpeted hills.
Ideal for both a romantic retreat for couples (they even do weddings) as well as solo travelers, the Banjaran offer Garden Villas and Water Villas to choose from for sleeping, plus a wide range of treatments and relaxing features to help you unwind. At its center is a huge geothermic lake, flanked by a cascading waterfall on one side and natural caves on the other. The shimmering mist of vapor above the lake and the dramatic limestone hill in the background combine to create a natural setting that - like the rest of the resort - is as beautiful as it is enchanting.
Practical Info
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is located at 1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, in the heart of Tambun in Ipoh. It’s around a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.
Address: 1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, PK 31150 Ipoh, Malaysia
Hours: Daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 1,001
Barcaccia Fountain
Marking the center of Piazza di Spagna, the unique 17th-century Barcaccia Fountain is one of the most famous in Rome. Commissioned by Pope Urban VIII Barberini and designed by Pietro Bernini, the fountain sits at the base of Rome’s Spanish Steps and is a popular gathering spot in the square.
The Basics
Barcaccia means “old boat” in Italian, and the Fontana della Barcaccia’s Baroque design of a half-sunken ship is said to be modeled on a ship that was deposited on this spot after the Tiber river flooded in 1598. The fountain features two masks on either end of the central marble boat that spout water, and motifs featuring the sun and bees taken from the Barberini family coat of arms.
Rome walking tours or hop-on hop-off bus tours are a great way to see the Barcaccia Fountain along with the Spanish Steps and surrounding Piazza di Spagna. You can opt for a small-group or private fountain and square tour that also includes the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona, or a Rome highlights tour that stops at other famous attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon—often with skip-the-line access. For a unique look at the fountain, consider joining a small-group night tour to see the fountain dramatically lit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sitting on and bathing in the fountain is forbidden, though you can drink the water from the fountain spouts.
- The fountain is encircled by a low metal fence and is not accessible to wheelchair users.
- The house where English poet John Keats lived, now a museum dedicated to his memory and works, is located just opposite the fountain.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for peddlers who will thrust a rose or other souvenir into your hand and then demand payment.
How to Get There
Metro line A runs from the Termini train station to Piazza di Spagna.
When to Get There
Piazza di Spagna and the Barcaccia Fountain are crowded most of the day, so you'll have to visit early in the morning or late at night if you want to enjoy them in relative peace. The fountain is a good stop during the midday hours in summer, when you can take a cool drink from the spouts.
Waters from the Acqua Vergine
The water flowing in the Barcaccia Fountain comes from the Acqua Vergine, an aqueduct built in 19 BC that still provides clean drinking water to much of central Rome.
Address: Piazza di Spagna, Roma 00187, Italy
From $ 40
Bannerghatta National Park
One of India's largest wildlife areas, the enormous Bannerghatta National Park spans more than 25,000 acres (10,000 hectares) and features tons of hiking trails, villages, and temples. The highlight of the reserve is the Bannerghatta Biological Park, which features an animal rescue center, a zoo, safaris, and a butterfly park.
The Basics
Forests and scrubs cover the hilly park, which plays home to all sorts of wild creatures, including elephants, deer, leopards, and even bears. It also offers an interesting variety of plant life, including tamarind, eucalyptus, and sandalwood. This off-the-beaten-track attraction makes for an excellent day trip from Bangalore, and private tours from the city are available for those who don't want to figure out bus schedules or book taxis and tickets independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bannerghatta National Park is great for families with young kids.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable shoes.
- Book ahead or go with a tour to guarantee a seat in a safari vehicle.
How to Get There
Bannerghatta National Park is located south of Bangalore, about an hour's drive from the city center or an hour and a half by bus. Mysore is a 3-hour drive away, and the park can be visited as a stop off between the two cities, if traveling by car or taxi.
When to Get There
The park is open throughout the year, except Tuesdays. Weekdays can be busy with school groups, while weekends get lots of families. However, the biggest consideration for many travelers is weather. While the climate is generally mild in the region, with warm winters and not-too-hot summers, monsoon rains fall from June through September and can put a literal damper on outdoor activities.
Safaris
Many travelers come here for safaris, and the park offers three different experiences: lion and tiger safaris, bear safaris, or even herbivore safaris, which focus on all sorts of native deer (though you may even spot an elephant). Visitors travel in special secure vehicles and are joined by local guides who are experts in animal spotting.
Address: Karnataka, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 62
Barka
What was once a major sea port and trade center of the gulf is now a sleepy town called Barka on the Omani coast. There is a large fish market and an old souk to explore, as well as the impressive Barka Fort, sitting right on the ocean. Dating back to the 17th century, the fort was built to defend against Persian and Portuguese invaders of that time. From the fort and large octagonal tower, you can get expansive views of the rest of town, the date palm groves below and the blue waters of the Gulf of Oman.
Barka is also famous for its halwa, a traditional Omani sweet, and its bullring in the center of town, making it a popular place to watch bull-butting, a non-violent sport between two large bulls bred by Brahmin. Barka is a laid-back place steeped in Omani tradition and culture.
Practical Info
Barka is located about 80 kilometers (40 minutes via car) west of the Muscat airport. To reach the town, take the roundabout by the big Lulu hypermarket and drive for 4 kilometers to the T-intersection at the middle of town. The Barka Fort is open Sunday to Thursday from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm with an admission fee of 500 baisa. Bull-butting usually takes place on Fridays only.
Address: Barka, Oman
From $ 123
Barbados Parliament Buildings
Historic Bridgetown has a Colonial feel reminiscent of a miniature England, and on a visit to the Barbados Parliament Buildings, travelers can learn what it means to be a part of the former British Commonwealth. The Barbados Parliament was established back in 1639—which makes it the Commonwealth’s third oldest, behind only Britain and Bermuda. The gorgeous, Neo-Gothic buildings were completed in 1874 and give the historic district the feel of Victorian England. Unlike some other Caribbean architecture that is decaying and in disrepair, the Barbados Parliament Buildings are exquisitely maintained to the point where you just might find yourself staring and gawking in the middle of the street.
Aside from the spectacular, external appearance, it’s inside the Museum of Parliament and National Heroes Gallery where visitors can learn the fascinating history of Barbados. Located inside the West Wing, the Museum of Parliament tells the island’s history through stunning photographs and videos, and shows visitors what life was like through various historical eras. You’ll also find info on influential figures who have helped to shape the nation. Visitors will leave with a deep, well-rounded knowledge of this historic Caribbean nation.
Practical Info
There is no photography, video, food or drink allowed inside the museum. Visitors must also be properly clothed, and no beachwear is allowed. The Parliament Buildings are closed to the public whenever Parliament is in session.
Did You Know? The famous clock tower, which can be seen from much of historic Bridgetown, was damaged in a 2010 tropical storm and was stuck on the time of 2:12 for years until it was fixed.
Address: Broad Street, Bridgetown, Barbados
Hours: The Museum of Parliament is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10am-4pm, and on Saturday from 10am-3pm.
Admission: $10 for adults
From $ 25
Barcelos
Barcelos is a city in the Braga district of northern Portugal. The city is well known for the place where the unofficial symbol of Portugal, the cockerel, originated. Legend has it that a pilgrim was arrested for a crime he did not commit, and as he was about to be hanged, he claimed that a roasted cockerel would crow if he was innocent. Supposedly the cockerel stood up and crowed, and the man was released. Today visitors will find ceramic versions of the Galo de Barcelos throughout the city.
Aside from colorful ceramics and the Galo de Barcelos, this walled medieval city is known for its Thursday market in Campo da República. The market attracts locals from all over the region as well as tourists. Other local attractions include the Nossa Senhora do Terço church, the Centro do Artesanato de Barcelos (handicrafts center) and the ruins of the 15th-century Paço dos Duques de Bragança (Palace of the Dukes of Bragança). The ruins of the palace have been turned into an open-air archaeological museum, which also has a cross describing the story of Galo de Barcelos.
Practical Info
Barcelos is located 38 miles north of Porto and can be reached using route A28 or by train using the Linha de Braga line and R3111.
Address: Barcelos, Portugal
From $ 12
Barker's National Park
The Cayman Islands' first-ever national park was created around the northern end of West Bay, in an area called Barker’s National Park. Here you can find a long stretch of undeveloped beach alongside mangrove forests, where you can go for a hike or join a horseback-riding excursion. You can also see the park as part of a West Bay bike tour.
Whether you’re hiking, biking or riding the trails in the park, keep an eye out for wildlife like the brown pelicans and green iguanas that make their homes here. However, don’t expect to find much in the way of facilities, as the park is simply a preserve without any ranger station or bathrooms to visit while you’re there. Luckily, it’s located just a few minutes from the town of West Bay.
Practical Info
To reach Barker’s National Park, follow signs to Pappagallo Restaurant, which sits just outside the park boundary. If you’re visiting the park from George Town, the drive is about 25 minutes long. Visiting the park on your own is free, but you can pay for guided biking or horseback riding tours.
Address: West Bay, Cayman Islands
From $ 300
Banqueting House
Built in 1622, London’s Banqueting House was once part of the Palace of Whitehall, which was home to the English monarch for 168 years. The building is the last structure standing of the former complex. It exemplifies the beginnings of neoclassical architecture and boasts a tumultuous history, including the execution of Charles I in 1649.
The Basics
Absorb views of the grand exterior of the Banqueting House on a city walking tour, or book ahead to guarantee entry. Tread in the footsteps of historic ambassadors, such as Pocahontas, as you wander through the undercroft or glimpse Rubens’ iconic ceiling in the Main Hall. Convenient hop-on hop-off buses let you explore Banqueting House and beyond at your own pace, while discounted packages can help you visit several London landmarks in one visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visiting is a must for anyone interested in European history, art, or architecture.
- Elevator access to the Main Hall is limited, so wheelchair users should call ahead to make accessibility arrangements.
- Sign language interpreters are available the first Saturday morning of each month.
- Booking ahead is recommended, as the site is sometimes closed for private functions.
- Whitehall is home to a number of top attractions, so sightseeing tours can help you save time and money.
How to Get There
Westminster is ideal for walking excursions, with so many landmarks strewn across a relatively small area. Right in the middle of the action, Banqueting House is located on Whitehall, a 10-minute walk from the Embankment or Westminster Underground stations. Whitehall is also served by several local buses, as well as hop-on hop-off tours.
When to Get There
Banqueting House is open daily year-round, except for Dec. 24–26 and New Year’s Day. It is wise to arrange your visit in advance, as the building is sometimes booked for private functions. Whitehall is impressive at any time of year, but winter’s festive lights lend extra charm to the historic street.
Palaces of London
Banqueting House may be the last vestige of the Palace of Whitehall, but there are plenty more royal residences that are open to visitors in London. Whitehall’s Tudor contemporaries include nearby St. James’s Palace and Hampton Court Palace in Richmond, the site of Queen Jane Seymour’s death in childbirth.
Address: Whitehall, London, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 8
Banska Stiavnica
Banksa Stiavnica is a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Slovakia. Once a leading center of innovation in the mining industry, today it is known more as a destination for tourism and recreation. The site was settled as early as the Neolithic period and later by the Celts, Slavs and Germans. During the Middle Ages, it was the main producer of silver and gold in the Kingdom of Hungary, but the town began to decline in the 15th century.
The heart of Banska Stiavnica is the historic Holy Trinity Square, which is dominated by the Holy Trinity column. Many sightseeing tours start from this square. To gain an understanding of the region’s mining history, visitors shouldn’t miss the open air mining museum, which features a mile-long excursion in a 17th century mine. The town is also surrounded by dozens of artificial mining water reservoirs built in the 15th through 18th centuries and connected by an extensive system of channels. Nearby, Mount Sitno is the highest peak in the region and provides good hiking opportunities.
Banska Stiavnica is also notable for its Renaissance era Old Castle and its New Castle, which is visible throughout town.
Practical Info
Banska Stiavnica can be difficult to reach directly by public transport. Coming from Bratislava, you can change for a bus at Levice, Zarnovica, Ziar nad Hronom or Zvolen. Traveling by train also general requires a connection. The train station is three kilometers outside of the center of town and is a 10 minute walk to the small central bus station on Krizovatka Street.
Address: Banska Stiavnica, Slovakia
From $ 520
Barolo
The town of Barolo in Piedmont is very small – less than 1,000 residents – but since it produces one of the most sought-after wines on any Italian wine list, it attracts quite a bit of attention.
Barolo is roughly 30 miles southeast of Turin, not far from Alba. The tiny town is easy to explore on foot – although some of it is quite hilly, it's small enough that you can take your time. The countryside around Barolo is covered in vineyards, most of which are responsible for growing the nebbiolo grapes used to make the town's namesake wine.
Wine lovers will likely want to explore the area's vineyards, but don't overlook the town itself. There are a number of wine shops right in Barolo, and many winemakers have storefronts there, too, where you can taste (and buy) their wines.
Practical Info
Barolo is just nine miles south of Alba, and it's easiest to explore the whole area (including the vineyards) by renting a car. If you're staying in Alba, however, there are local buses you can take to get to Barolo.
Address: Barolo, Cuneo 12060, Italy
From $ 9
Banteay Srei
Located 24 miles (38 km) northeast of Siem Reap, the Hindu temple of Banteay Srei lies off the beaten tourist path in Angkor but is a must-see for temple buffs. While small by Angkor standards, the 10-century red sandstone structure is famous for its intricate and well-preserved decorative carvings. French archaeologists who uncovered it during the early 20th century called it “a jewel in Khmer art.”
At the center of the complex are three temples, a central one honoring the Hindu god Shiva and two smaller ones for Vishnu and Brahma. It’s the only complex built from red sandstone and the only one not commissioned by a king, but instead by a royal adviser.
Practical Info
Banteay Srei is at its most beautiful in the late afternoon light, so if possible, plan you visit for the end of the day. The trip from Siem Reap takes about an hour.
Address: Banteay Srei, Cambodia
Hours: Daily 5am-6pm
Admission: 1-Day Pass US $20
From $ 59
Banteay Kdei
The unrestored ruins of Banteay Kdei, a Buddhist monastery complex, date back to 1181. This was one of the first structures built by the prolific King Jayavarman VII, and it features four gates, each adorned with a carved face of the king, much like at Bayon.
One of the first things you’ll notice upon visiting Banteay Kdei is the way its walls and structures lean precariously, some held up by ropes and cables. Unlike Banteay Srei, which was constructed from durable red sandstone, Banteay Kdei was made from softer gray sandstone that has eroded over time.
Just opposite the temple is the Sra Serang reservoir, a pleasant place to sit and enjoy a sunset.
Practical Info
While similar in style to Ta Prohm and Bayon, Banteay Kdei is much quieter, making it worthwhile even if you’re pressed for time.
Address: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Hours: Daily 5am-6pm
Admission: 1-Day Pass US $20
From $ 440
Bank Austria Kunstforum
Situated on Vienna’s lovely (and triangular) Freyung Square, the present incarnation of the Bank Austria Kunstforum dates from 1988 and was designed with a bizarre Art Deco entrance portal by architect Gustav Peichl. In recent years it has become a major player on the Vienna art scene, as Bank Austria now holds one of the best private collections in Europe, specialising in avant-garde post-WWII work. With an excess of 10,000 pieces of stellar art to call on, the bank sponsors innovative and well-received exhibitions, with recent successes including premier-league shows from big guns Georges Braque, Picasso, Kandinsky, Karel Appel and Magritte. Such has been the success of the venue that it has been extended several times to accommodate more visitors to the exhibitions. The Kunstforum also exhibits the Bank Austria photography archive, with around 400 images from great names such as Diane Arbus, Man Ray and Henri Cartier-Bresson.
Practical Info
Freyung 8. Opening hours are Sat–Thur 10am–7pm; Fri 10am–9pm. Admission adults €10, seniors €8.50, aged 17–27 €4, 6–17 €3, under 5 free (half price Thur 6pm–7pm). Metro U2 to Schottentor.
Address: Freyung 8, Vienna, Austria
Hours: Opening hours are Sat–Thur 10am–7pm; Fri 10am–9pm
Admission: Adults €10
From $ 68