Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in The Whitsundays & Hamilton Island
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Castello Bevilacqua
The town of Bevilacqua, about 31 miles from Verona, developed around (and is now mainly known for) the Castello Bevilacqua, a fortified castle dating from the 14th century.
A 6th-century fortified settlement was expanded and turned into Castello Bevilacqua (Bevilacqua Castle) by a Venetian count, Guglielmo Bevilacqua. The castle was beautified and turned into a more liveable villa in the 16th century, severely damaged by fire in the late 19th century, and later used as both a school and a home for the elderly. Finally in the 1990s, the castle was acquired by a family that restored it to its 16th-century splendor.
Today, the Castello Bevilacqua is a hotel and a venue for special events - it’s very popular for weddings - including concerts and other performances. There is a beautiful rooftop garden (which dates from the 16th-century design), an on-site restaurant in one of the oldest parts of the castle, and a well-stocked wine cellar.
In addition to the hotel and event spaces, the castle is also home to an armory museum in what was once likely part of the old kitchens, a collection of antique furniture, 18th-century Murano glass chandeliers, some tools like the ones used by scribes in the Middle Ages, and there are many beautiful frescoes on the walls that have been restored.
Practical Info
There are classes for children held at the Castello Bevilacqua that include leatherwork, paper making, archery, and the art of using pen and ink as scribes once did.
Address: Via Roma 50, Bevilacqua, Veneto 37040, Italy
Hours: 9:30am-6:30pm
From $ 22
Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum
Don’t be fooled by the name—Rome's Castel Sant'Angelo was built as a tomb, not a castle. Commissioned by emperor Hadrian in AD 139, this imposing cylindrical mausoleum held the ashes of Hadrian and subsequent Roman emperors until becoming a fortress in AD 401. In the 14th century, a fortified corridor between the castle and St. Peter’s Basilica was built, and it became a papal residence. Today, it’s home to the Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum and its collection of art, archaeological finds, and weaponry.
The Basics
Castel Sant’Angelo is located just outside the walls of Vatican City, and many visitors combine a walking tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with a museum visit and a stroll across the picturesque Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge into central Rome. There can be a wait to enter if you don’t book skip-the-line museum tickets in advance, especially during summer. Castel Sant'Angelo and the Colosseum are two of Rome's most stunning sights to visit after sunset, so consider a Rome night tour to see both the castle and amphitheater beautifully illuminated.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The five floors inside Castel Sant'Angelo are a maze of rooms and corridors, so wear comfortable shoes.
- The large terrace, where Puccini's heroine jumped to her death in his opera Tosca, has spectacular views over the Eternal City.
- Kids enjoy the large collection of historic weapons and armor displayed in the museum.
- The sumptuous Pope Paul III Papal Apartments are decorated with perfectly preserved Renaissance frescoes, a highlight for art aficionados.
- There is an elevator to the fifth floor, but most of the museum is not accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Castel Sant'Angelo is located along Lungotevere Castello on the banks of the Tiber River, a short walk from St. Peter's Square. The Ottaviano station on Line A of the city’s underground metro system is about a five-minute walk away.
When to Get There
Like all of Rome's most famous historic sites, Castel Sant'Angelo is most crowded during the middle of the day and in summer. To avoid crowds, visit in winter, shortly after opening, or before closing.
Sant’Angelo and the Plague
The name Castel Sant'Angelo dates to AD 590, when the archangel Michael is said to have appeared on top of the fortress to mark the end of the plague that had ripped through Rome.
Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, Rome 00186, Italy
Hours: Tues - Sun: 9am - 7pm
Admission: Adults: € 10.50
From $ 3
Casablanca Valley
Its close proximity to the Pacific Ocean and unique mix of clay and sandy soils has made the Casablanca Valley one of Chile’s top wine producing regions despite it’s relatively new arrival on the scene. The first vines were planted in the mid-1980s—more than 100 years later than some of Chile’s other notable wine regions.
Visitors to the Casablanca Valley, which is best known for its white grapes, like Sauvingnon Blanc and Chardonnay, can enjoy an afternoon in the quaint city of Casablanca, before embarking on a tour of the scenic region. Travelers love the wine museum at El Cuatro and agree that the eco-friendly and organic practices of Veramonte make it worth a stop.
Practical Info
Casablanca Valley is located 75 kilometers northwest of Santiago and 30 minutes southeast of Valparaiso. It’s a region known for Sauvignon Blac, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but travelers will also find varieties of Reisling, Cabernet Franc and Viognier.
Address: Chile
From $ 109
Casino Baden-Baden
Germany’s oldest casino opened for business in 1855 after a visiting Parisian brought up the idea of opening gaming rooms in the Black Forest spa town to add some spice to the evening entertainment options. While gambling became popular in the town during the early decades of the nineteenth century, it wasn’t until 1855 that Casino Baden-Baden came to be, and it still showcases the same glitz and glamour of the Second Empire.
Parisian designers fashioned the casino with crystal chandeliers, ornate frescoes and rich tapestries reminiscent of Fontainebleau or Versailles in France. While gambling remains a popular diversion, visitors can also take guided tours of the historic casino and hear tales of its storied past and famous patrons.
Practical Info
Jackets are required for men inside the casino, but they can be rented for a small fee.
Address: Kaiserallee 1, Baden-Baden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Hours: Sunday-Thursday noon to 2am; Friday and Saturday noon to 3:30 am
Admission: 5€ Table games/ 1€ slots
From $ 237
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Castel Nuovo, known locally as Maschio Angioino, has the imposing stone walls, soaring turrets, and crenellated ramparts of a storybook medieval castle. Built as the new royal residence between 1279 and 1282 by Charles I of Anjou, it is one of Naples' most striking buildings and home of the city’s Civic Museum.
The Basics
Most of the current "New Castle" dates from the 15th century, when the Aragonese monarch Alfonso V carried out a number of renovations to the original building, including its white marble triumphal arch. At the end of the 1600s, Naples was annexed by Spain and the castle was downgraded to military fortress, but Charles III moved back in as king of Naples in 1734 and restored it to its former glory. Today, visitors can tour the castle's halls and courtyard, 14th-century Palatine Chapel decorated with fragments of frescoes from the Giotto school, and Museo Civico.
This castle is best visited with a tour guide as part of a Naples Segway tour or walking tour that includes visits to other landmarks such as the Castel dell'Ovo and Royal Palace. Alternatively, a visit to Castel Nuovo can be combined with a Neapolitan food tour or an archaeological tour of sites in Naples and nearby Pompeii.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Museo Civico is closed on Sundays, but the other areas of the castle remain open to visitors.
- The castle and museum are completely accessible to wheelchairs via elevators and ramps.
- Exploring the historic halls and towers of Castel Nuovo is especially fun for kids.
- There are great views from the castle over the Bay of Naples and city center, so be sure to bring your camera.
How to Get There
Castel Nuovo is located in the center of Naples (Napoli) near the port; metro line 1 and bus line R2 both have Piazza Municipio stops near the castle. Naples is the largest city in Southern Italy and a main transport hub, so an easy day trip from Rome or Sorrento.
When to Get There
The castle is open free of charge each Sunday, which means that it can be very crowded. Better to plan a visit on the other days of the week, when opening hours are from 9am to 7pm. Visit at night to see the castle illuminated.
The Museo Civico
The art collection in the castle's Civic Museum includes 14th- and 15th-century frescoes and sculptures, as well as paintings by Neapolitan artists from the 17th to 20th century.
Address: Piazza Munipio, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Cassis
One of Provence’s prettiest coastal villages, Cassis enjoys an idyllic setting amid Mediterranean calanques (rock-sheltered coves), the Cap Canaille sea cliffs, and vineyard-carpeted hills. As well as beaches, a boat-filled harbor, and the historic Château de Cassis, the town also boasts ample boutiques, cafés, and hotels.
The Basics
Many visitors explore Cassis as part of day tours from Aix-en-Provence. Tours typically incorporate either guided walking tours or free time in the town itself, as well as boat trips around Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques), stop-offs at Cape Canaille, and visits to wineries in either the Bandol or Cassis wine region. Some shore excursions from Marseille cruise port combine Cassis with nearby Aix-en-Provence.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cassis is a must for scenery seekers, beach lovers, and wine enthusiasts.
- Plenty of restaurants along the Cassis waterfront serve fresh fish and local white and rosé wines.
- If you are planning to hike the calanques in summer, bring sunscreen, a hat, ample water, and sturdy footwear.
How to Get There
Cassis is situated in the South of France, about 18.5 miles (30 kilometers) from Marseille and 34 miles (55 kilometers) from Aix-en-Provence. From Marseille, ride the M8 bus or take the TER (regional train) from Saint Charles train station to Cassis. Cassis train station is about a 10-minute drive or short bus ride from the town center.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Cassis is in summer, when you can take full advantage of the area’s beaches and coves. Note that access to the calanques is occasionally restricted between June and September, based on the fire risk; check ahead before departing on a hike.
Exploring Calanques National Park
Cassis is the gateway to scenic Calanques National Park, a 199-square-mile (515-square-kilometer) swath of protected land incorporating upland massifs and parts of the Mediterranean coast, including the magnificent calanques. As well as presenting extensive hiking opportunities, the park can also be explored by boat tour. However you travel, look out for the park’s rare wildlife species, including ocellated lizards, which can reach 3 feet (1 meter) in length, and Montpellier snakes, which can grow up to 6.5 feet (2 meters) in length.
Address: Cassis, France
From $ 405
Castelmola
The town of Taormina sits high above the Mediterranean Sea, so it already boasts some of the loveliest views in Sicily. But the tiny town of Castelmola, which sits above Taormina, can argue its views are even better.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Address: Castelmola, Sicily, Italy
From $ 70
Castel dell'Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo, the imposing fortified castle on the island of Megaride in the Bay of Naples, is one of Naples’ most famous monuments. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, the castle—home to the Museum of Ethno-Prehistory—offers sweeping views over the city and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
The Basics
The site on which Naples’ (Napoli’s) iconic castle now stands has a long history, beginning as a settlement for Greek colonists before hosting a monastery and then a 12th-century Norman fortress. The current castle was built during the Aragonese dynasty in the 15th century, and today, the 19th-century fishing village of Borgo Marinari, known for its excellent seafood restaurants and marina, sits at the base of the castle.
Castel dell'Ovo, one of the city’s most important sights, is included on most Naples walking, bike, and Segway tours along with other landmarks like Piazza del Plebiscito and Castel Nuovo, also known as the Maschio Angioino, the city’s inland fortress. As the largest city on the coast of Campania, Naples is a transportation hub and a popular day trip from nearby destinations like the Amalfi Coast and Capri.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Castel dell’Ovo is a must-see for history and architecture buffs.
- Admission to the castle and the museum is free.
- The inner halls of the castle are open to the public only during special events and exhibitions; the ramparts and towers are always open.
- There is an elevator from the ground floor to the ramparts, making the castle mostly accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Castel dell’Ovo is located in the Bay of Naples (also called the Gulf of Naples) just off the lungomare (coastal road) between the San Ferdinando and Chiaia neighborhoods. Bus 151 from the train station and 140 from the port stop at Castel dell’Ovo.
When to Get There
The castle is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 7pm, and Sundays and holidays from 8:30am to 1:30pm. The Prehistoric Museum is open only on weekends from 10am to 1pm. As Naples is one of Italy’s most visited cities, its sights can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to take advantage of the best light for snapping photos from the castle’s towers.
The Egg Castle
The origins of the castle’s name comes from a legend about the Roman poet Virgil, who is said to have placed a magical egg in the foundations beneath where the castle now stands. As long as the egg stays intact, Castel dell’Ovo will remain standing.
Address: via Caracciolo, Naples, 80133, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Casco Viejo
Panama City's oldest and hippest neighborhood comprises a Tejas-tiled cluster of pastel colonial buildings at the tip of a heavily fortified peninsula. These ramparts successfully protected the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific Coast; today they make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with plazas, churches, and narrow streets.
The Basics
This neighborhood is an essential stop on any Panama City itinerary. Take a guided walking tour to see landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Palacio de las Garzas, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, and the National Theater. There’s a tour for every interest: Foodies can eat and drink their way through Casco Viejo, while those with an interest in the Panama Canal can combine a Casco Viejo tour with a visit to the Miraflores Locks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Casco Viejo is one of Panama City’s most atmospheric neighborhoods: a must for couples, history buffs, and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces; many of the streets are cobbled.
- Sightseeing tours that include Casco Viejo can last from two to eight hours, depending on the activities included.
How to Get There
While the Casco Viejo is well into the process of gentrification, surrounding neighborhoods are not. It’s a good idea to take a taxi, even during the day, or visit the neighborhood as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
It’s best to visit the neighborhood during the daytime when the majority of its attractions, restaurants, cafés, and shops are open. Some of the city’s top chefs have restaurants in the area—perfect for a dinner date—but this area tends to quiet down early.
Attractions in Casco Viejo
For a relatively small neighborhood, there’s a ton to see and do in Casco Viejo. Learn more about the Eighth Wonder of the World at the Interoceanic Canal Museum, get a sense for the local art scene in one of several galleries, sip a cocktail at a rooftop bar, or shop for handmade indigenous crafts.
Address: Panama City, Pacific Coast & Avenida Central, Panama City, Panama
From $ 52
Casino Gran Vía
Casino Gran Via, situated on Madrid’s boulevard of the same name, occupies a grand three-story building, formerly the Commercial and Industrial Union building, outfitted with marble staircases, chandeliers and a wide atrium covered in stained glass. Visitors will find three floors dedicated to gaming — everything from table games like American Roulette, poker and black jack to slot machines and electronic roulette machines.
Casino Gran Via is also home to three bars, including the luxe Bulle Champagne Bar, and the Circulo Mercantil Restaurant, serving upscale seasonal cuisine. Live music sets the mood nightly.
Practical Info
Entrance to the casino is restricted to visitors over the age of 18. Make sure to bring your passport or valid ID.
Address: Gran Vía, 24, Madrid 28013, Spain
Hours: 10am to 6am (table games 2pm to 6am)
From $ 60
Casa Ponce de León
Juan Ponce de Léon House Museum (Casa Museo Juan Ponce de Léon)
The former home of explorer and governor of Puerto Rico Juan Ponce de Léon, Casa Ponce de Léon is a simple stone building with an important place in history. Visitors come to travel over 500 years back in time to the days of great oceanic exploration and see an important landmark in the history of the Americas.
The Basics
Explorer and conquistador Juan Ponce de Léon first visited the Americas as part of Christopher Columbus’ second mission in 1493. He remained in Hispaniola (now the Dominican Republic and Haiti) and was named the first governor of Puerto Rico in 1509. From 1502 to 1508 he, his wife, and their three daughters lived in the simple, fortified stone house near San Rafael de Yuma designed with small doors and windows for additional safety against intruders. Today the Ponce de Léon House museum still contains some of the family’s possessions, including furniture, chests, and even his suit of armor.
You can visit the museum independently or as part of a guided tour from Punta Cana, some of which also explore nearby beaches and caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ponce de Léon House is ideal for history buffs.
- Tours of the house are available in Spanish only.
- Nearby Boca de Yuma is a popular snorkeling spot.
How to Get There
Within driving distance of the resorts of Punta Cana and La Romana, the house is in a fairly isolated area near the town of Boca de Yuma. Most visitors drive to the house, take a taxi, or arrive with a guided tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
The house is open from 10am to 1pm Tuesday through Sunday.
Enjoy the Bright Lights of Punta Cana
On the Dominican Republic’s southeast coast, the resort town of Punta Cana has it all—white-sand beaches, water that’s ideal for swimming, lively restaurants and resort bars, and a wide variety of water sports. It’s a very popular choice for vacationers looking for a sunny getaway, especially in winter.
Address: Highway 4, San Rafael de Yuma 23000, Dominican Republic
Admission: Varies
From $ 125
Castillo de San Cristobal
Standing guard at Old San Juan’s Eastern Gate is the Castillo de San Crisotbal. Built to protect San Juan against land attacks, the ancient Spanish fort is now part of the San Juan National Historic Site and a great opportunity to see the largest Spanish fortification built in the New World and see some spectacular views of the San Juan Bay and El Morro. The massive structure, which was built in the 18th century to compliment the El Morro fortification which was designed to guard the bay, rises 150 feet above sea level and occupies most of the northeast edge of Old San Juan. Proven to be an effective fortification which helped repel a 1797 land invasion by Sir Ralph Abercrombie, the Castillo de San Cristobal is one of the premier attractions of Old San Juan.
Practical Info
Castillo de San Cristobal is available for exploration from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Self-guided tours and ranger led tours are available. There are many steps and steep ramps covering the 250 acre land parcel, so you must be prepared to walk a good deal.
Address: 501 Norzagaray Street, San Juan 00901, Puerto Rico
From $ 62
Casela World of Adventures
When you think of beautiful, tropical Mauritius, it usually isn’t lions, rhinos, or giraffes that immediately spring to mind. At Casela World of Adventures, however, visitors will enter a safari-style compound that covers 620 acres, where seemingly every adventure possible is happening here in the park. Strap on a helmet and go on safari while also riding a quad bike, or get the feel for what it’s like to sit and ride on a camel. Fly down the island’s longest ziplines, or climb the Via Ferrata, before clipping into the canyon swing or touring the park on a Segway. All of the experiences have separate charges, although general admission still includes a guided safari adventure, where you drive around in search of zebras, ostriches, impalas, and kudus. You’re sure to see at least a dozen of the park’s 1,500 birds, and to up the adventure to heart-racing levels, join the staff on a stroll through fields full of cheetahs, lions, and tigers.
Practical Info
Many activities such as ziplining and canyoning have minimum age requirements. There are restaurants, boutiques, and gift stores on site, and since there’s no possible way to do it all in a single day, choose the activities that interest you most or come back for additional days.
Insider's Tip: Don’t leave without taking a ride on the immersive 4D cinema. You can literally feel the movie you’re watching, and movies are 21 minutes long and run every 30 minutes.
Address: Route Royal, Cascavelle, Mauritius
Hours: 9am-5pm daily
Admission: $21 for adults and $14 for children. Additional charges may apply to other activities.
From $ 31
Casino Square
From James Bond fans to those who simply want to witness the good life, the Casino of Monte-Carlo is a sure-fire destination when visiting the principality of Monaco.
This swanky casino has a strict dress code, but those with laidback vacation attire can hang outside at Casino Square, which is just as (if not more) entertaining than the goings-on inside. In short, it's where the real action is. Originally built as the entry to the Monte-Carlo in the late 1800s, the square (also known as Place du Casino) was a spot to see and be seen. It brought the Hôtel de Paris and the Café de Paris together with the casino to create a large square to welcome patrons.
Men and women in their best outfits throw their keys to the valets, who get to drive some of the world's most astounding vehicles to their showcase parking spots around the fountain in the center of the square. And despite the posh and expensive atmosphere, an outdoor seat to watch the world go by can be had for the price of a coffee or beverage at the Café de Paris.
Interestingly enough, the Place du Casino is as close as the citizens of Monaco will ever get to the Casino of Monte-Carlo itself; they are forbidden to enter!
Practical Info
To enter the Casino of Monte-Carlo, visitors must be dressed in formal (or at least business) attire, and passports need to be presented. The public square is open daily and is usually bustling until the early morning hours.
Address: Casino Square, Monaco
Hours: Daily
From $ 68
Castel Gandolfo
Considered by many to be one of Italy’s most scenic towns, the quiet hamlet of Castel Gandolfo is located in the Alban Hills overlooking Lake Albano. With fewer than 10,000 people calling this quaint village home, Castel Gandolfo offers travelers a picturesque escape from some of the country’s larger, more urban destinations. The place is so popular among locals in search of the serene that even the pope vacations in this beautiful resort town.
Travelers will find idyllic summer villas and cottages—some dating back to the 17th century—in addition to some remarkable religious architecture, like the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Lake. It’s possible to visit the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo, where the pope spends his summers, as well as the Vatican Observatory. Castel Gandolfo is also home to ancient religious ruins, a former castle and a stunning hidden natural bath inside a darkened cave.
Practical Info
The town of Castel Gandolfo is located about 15 miles southeast from Rome in Italy’s Lazio region. It’s best to visit in summer and spring when weather is dry and pleasant.
Address: Castel Gandolfo, Italy
From $ 69
Castel del Monte
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Castel del Monte was built in the latter half of the 12th century by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. At this time his realm stretched across much of southern Italy, and he was also responsible for the Castello Normanno-Svevo in Bari, the region’s biggest city, as well as a series of hunting lodges across his domain.
Sitting on a remote hillock among endless undulating plains, Castel del Monte is regarded as a masterpiece of medieval architecture, taking its influences from both Classical and Islamic building styles. Perfectly octagonal in shape, it is constructed around a courtyard and boasts a series of octagonal towers. Internally, it comprises two stories containing eight rooms in each, and although the rich furnishings and much of the decoration are long gone, the marble moldings around the great entrance doorway and the lack of fortifications suggest that the castle may have been a private residence rather than for military purposes. With the demise of the Sicilian empire, the castle was abandoned, and by the 16th century had fallen into disrepair; over the centuries it has been used variously as a prison, a refuge from plague and a hang out for bandits. Today it stands empty and proud, a monument to the political and cultural flowering that saw southern Italy come to prominence in the Middle Ages.
Practical Info
The castle is located in Andria, near Bari. From here, follow the SS170 for 11 miles (18 km). The site is open daily. From April through September, it is open from 10:15 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., and from October through March it is open from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission costs €5 for adults, €2.50 for students and is free for those under 18.
Address: Andria, Italy
Hours: Daily Apr–Sept 10:15am–7:45pm;
Oct–March 9am–6.30pm
Admission: Adult: €5, Students: €2.50, Under 18 free
From $ 68
Castelo de Sao Jorge (St George's Castle)
The ocher-colored, imposing St George’s Castle is an iconic landmark standing high in Alfama with views over Lisbon and the Tagus waterfront from its turreted, fortified walls. With only a few Moorish wall fragments dating from the sixth century still remaining, the castle we see now was redeveloped over the centuries following King Afonso Henriques’ re-conquest of Lisbon in 1147.
There’s enough to see at the castle to keep everyone happy for several hours. Walks around the ramparts provide far-reaching views of the city below. As much of the medieval castle was given over to housing troops and resisting siege, the fortified ramparts were dotted with defense towers. Now only 11 of the original 18 are still standing and most interesting among these is the Torre de Ulísses (Tower of Ulysses) as it contains a gigantic periscope offering visitors a 360° view of Lisbon.
The castle complex also harbors the partly excavated site of the original Moorish hilltop settlement and the gently crumbling, photogenic remains of the Royal Palace of the Alcácova – it was here that the royal family sought refuge in time of war. Today the Alcácova contains a small museum of archaeological artifacts found during the excavations as well as family-friendly café and the Casa do Leão, one of Lisbon’s top restaurants. The forested gardens surrounding the castle are planted with pine, cork, olive and oak trees, providing a serene respite from the clamor of the city below.
Practical Info
Tram 28 passes close to the castle and bus No 737 from Praça Figueira stops at the gate. Open Nov 1-Feb 28 9am-6pm; Mar 1-Oct 31 9am-9pm. The Periscope and Tower of Ulysses are sometimes closed due to weather conditions. Admission €7.50, students and over 65 €4, family €16; free with the Lisbon Card.
Address: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, Lisbon 1100-129, Portugal
Hours: Nov-Feb 9am-6pm; Mar-Oct 9am-9pm
Admission: Adult €7.50, Student/Senior €4, Family €16
From $ 12
Casapueblo
Located 13 kilometers from Punta del Este, Casapueblo is the former summer home of Uruguayan artist Carlos Páez Vilaró and today is a hotel, museum and more. The structure itself is a work of art — the result of 36 years of construction and careful design. Built into the cliffs, Casapueblo is reminiscent of the whitewashed buildings in Santorini, with a twist of modern art.
Even if you’re not planning on staying in the hotel, Casapueblo and the city of Punta Ballena is a popular day trip from Punta del Este. Visitors get a real insight to the artist’s life and 50 years of work. Casapueblo is the home to Vilaró’s studios and today the gallery and museum house his works, complete with photos and a short film about his life. Casapueblo also attracts visitors for the amazing ocean views, which are especially breathtaking at sunset. A highlight of a visit is the nightly Sun Celebration that takes place at sunset on the decks of the museum overlooking the ocean. Viewing the sunset can get very crowded, especially in the summer, so it’s best to arrive early. The restaurant at Casapueblo is the ideal place to have a special meal and take in the million-dollar view.
Practical Info
The Casapueblo is located in Punta Ballena. It is open every day of the year from 10 a.m. until sunset. Admission is 150 pesos.
Address: Museo – Taller de Casapubelo, Punta Ballena 20003, Uruguay
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. to sunset
Admission: 150 pesos
From $ 10
Castel Romano Designer Outlet
Italy is known for its fashion and design: Some of the world’s most recognized luxury clothing and home decor labels are proudly “made in Italy.” If you love elegant Italian style, head to Castel Romano Designer Outlet to shop for famous designer brands such as Valentino and Versace at a deep discount.
The Basics
With almost 150 stores offering discounts of up to 70% off of retail prices, this outlet center is popular with bargain hunters. The collection of branded boutiques and factory outlet shops is laid out in an open-air plan with architecture vaguely inspired by the Roman forum. There are also restaurants and cafés, an on-site tax refund service office, and special events held throughout the year.
Consider joining a guided tour including transportation so you can shop 'til you drop without having to worry about getting back and forth between the outlets and Rome's city center. Small-group tours often include pickup and drop-off at Rome hotels, or you can opt for a private tour that includes a shopping assistant for the day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The shopping center has a number of stores for children, an outdoor play area, and frequently entertainment, so this is a fun excursion for the entire family.
- All the stores in the outlet center accept credit cards or cash in euros.
- Castel Romano Designer Outlet is in a beautiful setting mostly outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather. Also wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of ground to cover.
- The outlet center is entirely accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Castel Romano is located on Via del Ponte di Piscina Cupa in Agro Pontino, about 20 minutes outside of Rome in Lazio. Shuttle bus service runs multiple times daily from the Via Marsala side of Rome's Termini Station, and free parking is available on-site.
When to Get There
The shopping center can be very crowded on weekends and holidays, so it's best to visit on a weekday. Italy has two main sale seasons that each last for about a month—beginning after January 1st and beginning after July 1st—when you can find even better bargains.
Brands at Castel Romano Designer Outlet
Shops at the outlet center include Italian brands like Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Moschino, and Versace, and international designers such as Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Jimmy Choo, Nike, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Address: Via del Ponte di Piscina Cupa, 64, Rome 00128, Italy
From $ 87
Case Romane del Celio
It's awe-inspiring to walk through the ruins of ancient Roman temples and amphitheaters, but to bring history to a human level you've got see where those ancient people lived. You can do that at the Case Romane del Celio.
Underneath the Basilica of Santi Givanni e Paolo, the Case Romane del Celio is a network of ancient Roman houses. There are homes from different periods – one from the 2nd century, another from the 3rd century – and for different levels of society. There are beautiful frescoed walls and a small museum displaying some of the artifacts unearthed during the excavation of the site.
Practical Info
The Case Romane del Celio is open Thursday-Monday from 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm, closed Tuesday-Wednesday. Tickets cost €8 for adults, €6 for children ages 12-18, and children under 12 are admitted for free.
Address: Clivo di Scauro, snc, Rome, Italy
Hours: Thursday-Monday from 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm, closed Tuesday-Wednesday.
Admission: Adults €8; Children 12-18 €6; Children under 12 free
From $ 35