Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Potsdam's Gardens
Potsdam acquired some importance when the Great Elector of Brandenburg Frederick William established his residence here, where a small garrison was housed from 1640 onward; the site's military function was strengthened by the young Prussian monarchy. Potsdam later changed under the power of Frederick II the Great, who wanted to establish a 'Prussian Versailles' next to the garrison town, which was to be his main residence. Landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné united the various palaces and parks of Potsdam into a unique park landscape, and it was designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1990.
Sanssouci Park, the most popular attraction in Potsdam, is the result of many influences from Italy, England, Flanders, Paris and Dresden. The 290-hectare park was laid out around several buildings including the Sanssouci Palace, the Orangery palace, the New Palace, the Charlottenhof Palace and the Roman Baths, while also hosting a magnificent botanical garden created in 1950. Some 4,600 different plant species from tropical and subtropical regions around the world are cultivated in more than 10 greenhouses, while about 4,000 different types of plants grow in the outdoor facilities along both sides of Maulbeerallee Street.
Sanssouci Park, the most popular attraction in Potsdam, is the result of many influences from Italy, England, Flanders, Paris and Dresden. The 290-hectare park was laid out around several buildings including the Sanssouci Palace, the Orangery palace, the New Palace, the Charlottenhof Palace and the Roman Baths, while also hosting a magnificent botanical garden created in 1950. Some 4,600 different plant species from tropical and subtropical regions around the world are cultivated in more than 10 greenhouses, while about 4,000 different types of plants grow in the outdoor facilities along both sides of Maulbeerallee Street.
Address: Postdam, Germany
Hours: Outdoor facilities: open Apr-Oct: 7am - 5pm. Greenhouses: open Apr-Sep: 9:30am - 5pm, daily and Oct-Mar: 9:30am - 4pm, daily.
Admission: Adult (Premium ticket including Sanssouci Palace): 19 EUR. Adult (excludes Sanssouci Palace): 15 EUR
From $ 57
Potsdamer Platz
A symbol of a unified Germany, Potsdamer Platz in central Berlin was once a busy square with a major railway station. Second World War bombings completely destroyed it and then the Berlin Wall divided it, before being redeveloped into a thriving social and cultural hub.
The Basics
Potsdamer Platz was a trading post before developing into a thriving area with numerous restaurants and beer halls. WWII allied air raids reduced the square and much of the surrounding area to rubble, and in 1961, the Berlin Wall was built right across it.
In 1989, the wall came down, and the area was redeveloped into an entertainment complex and stands as a symbol of a new Berlin. Now, it’s home to restaurants, cinemas, theaters, and fashionable shops. Highlights include the Sony Center with its futuristic tent-like roof, the Kollhoff Tower with panoramic views of Berlin, and the Legoland Discovery Centre, always a hit with kids. Many city tours—on foot, by bike, and via vehicle—stop at Potsdamer Platz, one of Berlin’s most famous locations.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A metal strip set into the paving stones traces the former path of the Berlin Wall.
- The Berlinale film festival is held at Potsdamer Platz every February.
- Scan the QR code on the giant “digital cobblestone” in front of the Deutsche Bahn Tower to access an interactive tour of the square.
- In winter, the square holds a “winter wonderland” with ice rink, curling, toboggan run, and apres-ski cabin.
- Weinhaus Huth is the only prewar building left in the square.
How to Get There
Potsdamer Platz is in the center of Berlin, near the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate. You can get here via car (there is underground car parking at the square), as part of a private tour, as part of a group bike tour, or even in your own mini hot rod car that can be hired for the day. The closest metro station is Berlin Potsdamer Platz Bahnhof on the S Bahn.
When to Get There
Potsdamer Platz is a public square and is open 24 hours a day. Shops, bars, restaurants, and attractions found in the square have different opening hours, so check times before visiting any site.
Checkpoint Charlie Museum
Checkpoint Charlie Museum containing several devices, including a hot air balloon used by East Berliners to escape the Communist regime, offers a fascinating look at Cold War–era Berlin. The museum was established shortly after the Berlin Wall was built and stood next to its namesake military checkpoint gate to peacefully resist the city’s divisions.
Address: Potsdamer Platz 1, Berlin 10785, Germany
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Portovenere
Portovenere’s brightly painted buildings, lively harbor, and clifftop castle make it a quintessential Italian Riviera town, perched on the rocky shores of the Gulf of Poets (Golfo dei Poeti). An easy detour from the wildly popular Cinque Terre National Park, this comparatively tranquil seaside town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history, delicious seafood, and stunning backdrop of cliffs, caves, and coves—making it ideal for hiking, mountain biking, or just relaxing.
The Basics
Portovenere is most often visited on a day trip from La Spezia, San Gimignano, Siena, Milan, or, most commonly, Florence. Most tours combine free time in this oceanside town with stops in the coastal villages of Cinque Terre for hiking, dining, and exploring. It’s also possible to admire the picturesque waterfront aboard a sailing cruise around the Golfo dei Poeti.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If visiting in summer, be sure to pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Public transportation to and from Portovenere is limited, so joining a tour is the best option for those without a car.
- White some hotels, ferries, and attractions in Portovenere are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the village’s steep and narrow lanes can be challenging for those with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Located at the southern tip of Cinque Terre National Park along the Italian Riviera, Portovenere is reachable by car (year-round) and ferry boat (mid-April through October only) from nearby villages such as La Spezia, Levanto, and Vernazza. It is set 102 miles (164 kilometers) west of Florence and just nine miles (15 kilometers) from La Spezia.
When to Get There
The most atmospheric, albeit crowded, time to visit Portovenere is during the summer season (May to August). The town is a popular destination any time of year, but be aware that many hotels, restaurants, and attractions close down in low season.
The Legend of the Golfo dei Poeti
La Spezia Bay is better known as the Golfo dei Poeti, or the Gulf of Poets, and its natural beauty has been inspiring poets since Roman times. Poets Persio, George Sand, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Eugenio Montale have all mentioned the bay in their verses, while one of the coastal caves is named after former resident Lord Byron.
Address: Portovenere, Italy
From $ 139
Prado Museum (Museo del Prado)
The Prado Museum (Museo del Prado) houses one of the finest art collections in the world, specializing in European art from the 12th to 19th centuries. Thousands of European paintings, sculptures, and other works of art are on display throughout its halls, and they represent merely a fraction of the total collection. Highlights include works by Francisco Goya, Diego Velázquez, and El Greco. Perhaps the most famous paintings are “Las Meninas” (The Maids of Honor), an inventive self-portrait by Velázquez, and The Garden of Earthly Delights, a triptych from Hieronymus Bosch.
The Basics
The Prado is to Madrid what the Louvre is to Paris, and that means just about every visitor to the Spanish capital makes a stop here. Travelers have plenty of buy-ahead options for touring the collection—everything from a basic entrance ticket or skip-the-line access to a private guided tour. Choose a standard admission ticket or a city attraction pass that also offers entrance to Almudena Cathedral, the Fine Arts Circle (Círculo de Bellas Artes), the Madrid cable car (Teleférico), and the Barcelona Wax Museum (Museu de Cera). The museum is often included as a stop on guided city sightseeing tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This museum is a must-see for art lovers.
- The museum offers a free locker and cloakroom at all entrances.
- Nearly the entire museum, with the exception of areas in the Villanueva building, is wheelchair accessible.
- If you’re looking for later works of art, Madrid's Reina Sofia Museum features a post-19th century art collection.
How to Get to the Prado Museum
Travelers visiting the Prado Museum independently can get there by taking the Madrid metro to Banco de España (Red Line 2) or Atocha (Light Blue Line 1). The latter is about a 10-minute walk from the museum entrance.
When to Get There
As one of Madrid’s most popular attractions, the Prado Museum often has long ticket lines, especially on summer weekends. Lines are much shorter or nonexistent in winter. To beat the crowds, especially during the peak summer season, buy a skip-the-line ticket. You can also plan to arrive a few minutes before the ticket office opens or in the late afternoon when most crowds have departed and Spaniards are enjoying their afternoon siesta.
A Short History of the Prado
In 1785 King Carlos III commissioned the Prado as a natural science museum to accompany the neighboring botanical gardens. When it opened in 1819, however, its purpose had shifted to displaying an extensive art collection gathered by Spanish royals.
Address: Calle Ruiz de Alarcón 23, Madrid 28014, Spain
Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am - 8pm, Sun and holidays: 10am - 7pm, closed Jan 1, May 1, December 25
Admission: Adults: €15, free for students ages 18-25 and children under 18
From $ 16
Posillipo Hill
Naples is an enormous, sprawling city, and although some of the population lives in the historic center – where most visitors spend their time – most live in neighborhoods surrounding the city center. One of the prettiest and wealthiest neighborhoods in Naples is Posillipo, located on the northern side of the Gulf of Naples atop a hill that overlooks the water.
From the port in Naples you'll wind your way north through the city center and then along the coast to Posillipo Hill, where you'll see some of the city's most beautiful houses. In some cases, these villas have been broken up more recently into apartments – but many of them are still private homes for elite Neapolitan families. Without a car, you can take the funicular from the Mergellina neighborhood below up to the top of Posillipo Hill.
Because the neighborhood on Posillipo Hill is primarily residential, there aren't many attractions on the hill that you'll have on your itinerary. It's an excellent spot for a picturesque stroll, particularly when the weather is clear and you can see across the Gulf of Naples to Mt. Vesuvius looming to the south. There are good restaurants in Posillipo, too, which are less apt to cater to tourists – something you might be craving if you're an adventurous foodie.
Posillipo Hill does have a couple of sights worth checking out. The ruin of an ancient Roman villa is at the bottom of the hill on the water, including the remains of an amphitheater built into the hill. Access to the ruin is via the Grotta di Seiano, a cave underneath the hill. Shopaholics will also appreciate the outdoor Posillipo Market, in which you'll find everything from housewares to designer duds (it's only open on Thursdays). The ancient Roman poet Virgil wished to be buried in Naples, and the spot that is said to have been his tomb is at the base of Posillipo Hill (never mind that no remains are there – it's still a pilgrimage location). There are also two parks dedicated to Virgil in Posillipo – one at the top of the hill, and one at the bottom. Both can be a welcome respite from the bustle that is Naples.
Address: Naples, Italy
From $ 35
Pozieres
Pozieres is a small village in rural France that was the setting of a two-week confrontation during the Battles of Somme of World War I. It is where, between March and April 1918, the German Fifth Army was driven further out into the fields of Somme by overwhelmingly large numbers of British corps that were on a mission to compromise the nearby German bastion of Thiepval. Although it technically involved the British Empire, Pozières is really an Australian battle - seeing as it involved over 23,000 corps and that the Australian flag flies over several buildings in recognition of the sacrifice of the ANZACs – even though the cemetery does not bare any Australian names; instead, Australian soldiers who fell in France and whose graves are not known are commemorated at the National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux.
There are 2,758 Commonwealth servicemen buried or commemorated in the Pozières cemetery. As such, the memorial and cemetery comprise a stunning gateway building with open colonnade walkways, making way to the remains of a blockhouse named "Gibraltar" which was a three-meter-high blockhouse-observation point. It also contains the Tank Memorial, with four small-scale models of the tanks used by the British between 1916 and 1918 – the first army to use tanks.
Practical Info
Pozieres is located 82 kilometers south of Lille in northern France. It can be reached by car in one hour via route A1; the memorial and cemetery are a south-west of the Pozieres on the north side of road D929 between Albert and Pozieres.
Address: Pozieres, France
From $ 173
Prague Astronomical Clock (Prague Orloj)
One of Prague’s biggest visitor attractions, the ornate 15th-century astronomical clock is found on the southern side of Prague’s Gothic Old Town Hall. Gilded and complex in design, the clock was made by Czech master clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň in 1410 although it has been repeatedly restored and added to over the centuries. Its upper face shows the time and day of the week, the lower one reveals delicately painted signs of the zodiac. Every hour, on the hour, hundreds of tourists gather around the clock to witness the figure of Christ emerge from tiny trap doors above the upper dial of the clock, followed by a collection of wooden Apostles, to act out a mini-medieval morality tale, while the skeletal figure of Death strikes a bell, Greed counts out his money and Vanity worships his reflection.
The Old Town Hall itself was built in 1338 and is today a popular venue for Prague weddings as well as home of the city’s main tourist information center. Trips up its medieval tower reveal superb views of Old Town Square, the sinister twin spires of Baroque Týn church, and the bronze statue of medieval Czech reformer Jan Hus, which lies at the heart of the square. A series of palatial medieval halls are also open to the public.
The Astronomical Clock “performs” daily on the hour between 9am and 11pm in Prague’s Old Town Square.
Address: Staroměstské náměstí 1, Prague, Czech Republic
From $ 12
Poulnabrone Dolmen
The Burren area of County Clare offers more questions than answers. It’s a vast countryside of karst limestone and millennia of human existence, and a place that leaves you shaking your head at the mysteries it holds inside. At a place like ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen—where a 12-foot capstone rests on two thin, vertical portal stones—the first question that instantly arises is how it was built in the first place. Dating to Ireland’s Neolithic period, the dolmen structure is estimated to be over 5,000 years old. When the area was excavated in 1985 to repair a crack in a stone, the remains of over 25 people—including adults, children, and an infant—were found buried by the Poulnabrone Domen, and along with items such as a stone axe and bone pendants, helped to date the portal tomb to around 3,600 BC. Today, when visiting this mystical and ancient site in the fields of County Clare, there’s a profound sense of historical unknown that’s held in the silence of the stones.
Practical Info
Poulnabrone Dolmen is located half a mile north of Caherconnell, which is an hour and 15 minutes from Galway. Sandwiched between the Burren National Park and the famous Cliffs of Moher, most people choose to visit Poulnabrone Dolmen as part of a full day driving tour from either Galway or Shannon. There is no admission fee to access the site, and the rocks are located 100 yards down a trail from a small parking lot.
Address: Clare, Ireland
From $ 31
Potsdam
Just 15 miles (24 km) outside of Germany’s capital city Berlin, Potsdam is a very popular day trip from Berlin. Potsdam is the capital of the German federal state of Brandenburg, and many of its historical sites were built during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries when the city was the royal seat of the Prussian kingdom. Although Potsdam was heavily hit by the bombing in WWII, most of the palaces in the Sanssouci Park remain undamaged. Throughout history Potsdam has been a city with many international influences which can still be seen today. The Dutch quarter (Hollaendisches Viertel) and Russian town (Alexandrowka) are both popular places for tourists to visit because of their notable architecture.
Potsdam is probably best known for its plethora of palaces, the most famous being the Schloss Sanssouci, built in 1747. The enormous castle is located west of the city’s historic center in Sanssouci Park. In Sanssouci Park you’ll also find the Wasserwerk Sanssouci, a steam pump built for the park’s fountains and housed in a Moorish-style building.
Practical Info
Bring your walking shoes to explore Potsdam’s city center, which is a pedestrian-only zone (Fussgangerzone) that formerly housed an army garrison. The historic town square has a strong French influence which can be seen in the Franzoesische Kirche (built in 1752).
Address: Potsdam, Germany
From $ 18
Prague Metronome
Letná Park sits on high overlooking the Vltava River; it gives great views over the graceful Baroque spires of Prague’s Staré Město (Old Town), and is well know for its beer gardens, bars and picnic spots. The top of Letná Hill was once adorned with a 30-ft (9.2-m), 17,000-ton statue built in homage to Joseph Stalin, which was unveiled in 1955 while Bohemia was under Soviet rule. By 1962, however, Stalin had fallen from favor and his successor Nikita Khrushchev had the statue blown up. Its plinth was left empty for nearly 30 years, but eventually Czech artist Vratislav Novák designed and constructed a massive, functioning metronome and it was placed on the plinth in 1991. Today it is a well-loved landmark on Prague’s skyline.
Novák’s triangular metronome has a bright-red arm that is 75 ft (23 m) long and is clearly visible from Prague Castle as well as the river and its bridges below. The graffiti-strewn area immediately surrounding the metronome is popular as a skate park with the youth of the city, and it also serves as a viewing point and as a photographic backdrop for visitors on cycling, electric scooter and Segway tours of the city. At night the installation is illuminated and can be spotted after dark from boats cruising along the river.
Practical Info
The metronome is open 24/7. Admission is free. For transportation, take Metro Line A to Malostranská or trams 1, 8, 25 or 26 to Letenské náměstí.
Address: Nábřeží Edvarda Beneše, Prague 7, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic
Hours: 24/7
From $ 12
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is an important site for the British Royal Navy, having played a part in the war against the Spanish Armada, the Battle of Trafalgar during the Napoleonic Wars, and both World Wars. Although the dockyard is still a working naval base, many of its historic ships have been converted into museums.
The Basics
Explore famous ships such as the Mary Rose, a Tudor carrack and Henry VIII’s flagship; the HMS Victory, from which Admiral Nelson commanded the victory at Trafalgar; the HMS Warrior, an iron-hulled warship that was the first of its kind in the world; the HMS Alliance, an Archeron-class submarine; and the HMS M.33, a WWI warship. Other highlights include the National Museum of the Royal Navy, the Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower, and the Dockyard Apprentice exhibit. The interactive exhibits at Action Stations and Boathouse 4 are ideal for families with kids, with a Ninja Force assault course and other hands-on activities.
You can explore Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on your own or opt for a guided tour to maximize your time and gain greater insight into the history of each ship. It’s also possible to visit on day trips from London or Oxford, which typically include round-trip transportation and extras such as harbor boat tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must-see for first-time visitors to Portsmouth or anyone interested in Britain’s military history.
- Visitor facilities include a selection of restaurants, cafés, and shops.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for exploring the shipyard—some vessels have steep steps, narrow passageways, and low ceilings.
- Most of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is wheelchair accessible, but some ships (including the HMS Victory) are inaccessible due to steep steps.
How to Get to There
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is located roughly 90 minutes by road from both London and Oxford. Trains from London also take about 90 minutes, and it’s also possible to arrive by ferry from France, the Isle of Wight, or Spain. Entrance to the dockyard is through the Victory Gate at the corner of Queen Street and the Hard, a short walk from the Portsmouth Harbour train and bus station.
When to Get There
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is open year-round but can get crowded on weekends and school holidays, especially during July and August. During this time opt for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid crowds.
Exploring the History of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Established in 1495, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the British Royal Navy’s oldest base and was once the largest industrial site in the world. Here you can find centuries of military history, with interactive exhibits that narrate the bravery and heroism of soldiers and serving personnel, offer insight into what life was like aboard these vessels, and outline how Britain came to be the ruler of such a grand empire.
Address: Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Prague Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
Part of Prague’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) is among the most remarkably preserved in Europe. Today, its striking monuments and memorials stand both as a tribute to the city’s rich Jewish heritage and a poignant reminder of its tragic past.
The Basics
Join a Jewish Quarter walking tour, which will visit the district’s four synagogues—the Old-New Synagogue, Klausen Synagogue, Spanish Synagogue, and Maisel Synagogue—as well as Jewish Town Hall and the 20th-century Jewish Ceremonial Hall. Tour the Old Jewish Cemetery and the former Pinkas Synagogue, now hosting a moving Holocaust memorial, to learn more about the Czech Republic’s Jewish history. Also explore Franz Kafka’s birthplace and Parizská Street for some designer shopping.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A “Jewish Museum” ticket, valid for seven days, includes entrance to seven of the district’s synagogues and historic buildings.
- Walking tours of the Jewish Quarter typically take three to four hours.
- Many attractions, including the Spanish Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, and the Old Jewish Cemetery, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get to There
The Jewish Quarter is between Old Town Square and the Vltava River, and it’s easy to walk there on foot from any of the attractions in Prague’s Old Town. The closest tram stop is Pravnicka fakulta (trams 2, 17, and 18) and the nearest metro station is Staromestska (line A).
When to Get There
The Jewish Quarter is at its busiest during peak season (July and August); an early morning visit is the best time to avoid the crowds.
The Jewish Museum of Prague
During World War II, Hitler planned to preserve Prague’s Jewish Quarter as a “Museum of an Extinct Race.” Many religious buildings were left intact and valuable Jewish artifacts from all over Europe were imported to Prague. Today, Prague’s “Jewish Museum” serves as a memorial and tribute made up of seven of the quarter’s most important sites—the Robert Guttmann Gallery, the Ceremonial Hall, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Maisel, Pinkas, Spanish, and Klausen synagogues.
Address: Prague, Czech Republic
Admission: Free
From $ 44
Praga
Praga is Warsaw’s right-bank area that was once an independent town, from the time of its first mention in 1432. In the late 18th century, it became formally associated with Warsaw as a small settlement. In its early days as a suburb, many buildings were repeatedly destroyed by natural disasters and military battles; the only surviving historical monument from that time is the Church of Our Lady of Loreto.
Although it suffered repeated damage in its early days, Praga managed to resist WWII destruction, and today, it’s considered one of Warsaw’s trendiest neighborhoods, oozing a cool bohemian vibe. Post-industrial buildings have been converted into art galleries, cinemas, and pubs. Also look for pre-war elements like sidewalks, apartments and lampposts.
Praga is quite a departure from the well-traveled tourist spots in Warsaw proper. Its popularity is on the rise, so now is the best time to visit. Don’t miss historic monuments like Agnieszka Osiecka, ode to the Polish poet and journalist who authored over 2,000 songs; Kapela Podwórkowa, a tribute to pre-war cloth-capped buskers and musicians known as The Courtyard Band; and Monument of Kościuszko Division (Pomnik Kościuszkowców), a tribute to the 1st Tadeusz Kościuszko Infantry Division, who tried to help during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944.
Practical Info
Wilenski square is the transportation hub in Praga and is just a short walk from the Slasko Dabrowski Bridge across the Vistula River.
Address: Praga District, Warszawa, Poland
From $ 41
Praça da Figueira
Praça da Figueira, which means Square of the Fig Tree in English, is located in the Baixa neighborhood of Lisbon. In 1755 there was a strong earthquake that greatly damaged a hospital located where the square is today. The square was built a few decades after the earthquake, once the hospital was torn down. The square is surrounded by guesthouses, shops, and cafes, including the well known Confeitaria Nacional and Pastelaria Suica.
Along with huge flocks of pigeons, a bronze statue of King João I sitting on a horse can also be found in the square. Though the statue looks old, it only dates back to 1971. From here visitors can see the historic Castle of St. George which looks down on the square from a nearby hill. Tourists and locals alike often pass through Praça da Figueira since it is a big transport hub, and many sightseeing tours of the city start at this square.
Practical Info
Praça da Figueira is located east of Praça de Dom Pedro IV, often referred to as Rossio Square. To get there take the metro to Rossio Station.
Address: Praça da Figueira, Lisbon, Lisboa 1100, Portugal
From $ 17
Prague Castle (Prazsky hrad)
Sitting high on a hill overlooking the Charles Bridge and Vltava River, Prague Castle (Prazsky Hrad) is a huge complex of museums, churches, palaces, and gardens dating from the ninth century. Nestled in the historic center of Prague—all of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the largest castle complex in the world is an outstanding relic of Prague’s architectural history and a must for any visitor to the City of a Hundred Spires.
The Basics
Comprised of dozens of buildings, Prague Castle can feel like a small town. To allow for ample time to explore, tickets are valid for two days: the day of purchase and the following day. Nearly all city tours include a stop at Prague Castle, and a variety of tickets are available depending on how much of the complex you want to see. Explore the castle on your own with a skip-the-line ticket, or book a guided walking tour for a more in-depth experience. To take in even more of Prague’s highlights, combine a visit to Prague Castle with a cruise on the Vltava River or a walking tour of Old Town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entrance to the castle grounds is free and tickets to individual buildings are sold at several spots around the grounds.
- History buffs may want to allow an entire day to take everything in.
- Interior photography is prohibited in certain exhibits and allowed only with a permit in others.
- Don’t miss the ceremonial Changing of the Guard, which takes place daily at noon.
- Be prepared to wait up to 30 minutes to go through security upon entering the castle grounds.
How to Get There
Easily reach Prague Castle by taking tram 22 to Prazsky Hrad. Other options include taking a tram to Kralovsky letohradek or Pohorelec, or taking the metro to Malostranska or Hradcanska.
When to Get There
Prague Castle is open year-round with slightly shorter hours in the winter. To beat the crowds, arrive early in the morning, and try to avoid weekends and holidays.
Prague Castle Highlights
Prague Castle is rich with architectural and historical marvels, including the neo-Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, which may be the most recognizable part of the complex. Inside, don’t miss St. Wenceslaus Chapel and its magnificent decorations. The treasury is one of the largest in Europe and includes a relic of St. Vitus’ arm, while St. George’s Basilica, with its austere interior, provides an interesting contrast to the elaborate cathedral. The small homes along Golden Lane originally belonged to servants, goldsmiths, and marksmen; look for house 22, where writer Franz Kafka once lived. The Old Royal Palace is now home to an interactive exhibition providing an overview of the city’s history, the Story of Prague Castle.
Address: Prague, Czech Republic
Hours: Prague castle complex: daily 6am-10pm, Historical buildings: Apr 1 - Oct 31: 9am-5pm, Nov 1 - March 31: 9am-4pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Praça Martim Moniz
Located in Lisbon’s city center, Praça Martim Moniz is a spacious plaza, lined with trees and filled with bars and restaurants with outdoor seating. Fantastic fountains and pools are set amid modern sculptures and are spread throughout the plaza. Some of the fountains are open for children to play in and are especially popular on hot days.
The plaza’s contemporary design contrasts against Lisbon’s centuries-old buildings that make up the majority of the city. The plaza is home to other works of modern art, including a recognizable chicken sculpture made largely of newspaper. The plaza and its fountains are well lit at night, making it an atmospheric place for dinner or a drink.
Frequently on Saturdays and Sundays, the plaza is transformed into an open-air market known as Mercado Fusão. Street food stalls serve up cuisine from all over the world, and are representative of Lisbon’s multicultural side. There are also concerts, workshops, and other cultural events that coincide with the street-food fair.
Practical Info
Praça Martim Muniz is located in the city center of Lisbon and is accessible by metro (green line) and tramway. Check the Mercado Fusão Facebook page for updated schedules for the street food fair.
Address: Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 21
Postojna Cave
The Postojna Cave—a subterranean wonderland of karst tunnels, caverns, and galleries, adorned with dramatic stalagmites and stalactites—is one of Slovenia’s most remarkable natural wonders and among the country’s most visited tourist attractions. It stretches along the Pivka River for an impressive 12.5 miles (20 kilometers).
The Basics
Visitors can discover the underground world of Postojna Cave on a 1.5-hour guided cave tour, which includes a ride on an electric train and an 0.9-mile (1.5-kilometer) hike through cave areas such as the Great Mountain, the Concert Hall, and the Brilliant Passage. Full-day Postojna Cave tours run from Ljubljana, Koper, and Bled, as well as from Zagreb or Rovinj in Croatia, and are often combined with nearby attractions such as Predjama Castle, Lake Bled, or the Skocjan Caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Guided tours are available in four different languages and audio guides are offered in 17 languages.
- Temperatures inside the cave average 45–50°F (8–10°C) even in summer, so it’s recommended to bring warm clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes.
- There is a hotel (Hotel Jama), gift shop, and restaurants onsite.
- Postojna Cave is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Postojna Cave is located 34 miles (55 kilometers) southwest of Ljubljana, about a 50-minute trip by road. The easiest way to visit is by private car or as part of a guided tour, but it is also possible to arrive by public transport—buses from Ljubljana stop close to the Jama Hotel, while train services connect to Postojna town (1.2 miles or two kilometers away).
When to Get There
Postojna Cave is open year-round, but the most popular time to visit is between May and October, when tours are held hourly. Winter sees fewer crowds, but it’s best to book ahead as there are sometimes only four interior tours per day.
Highlights of the Postojna Cave Park
After exploring the beautiful caves, pay a visit to the nearby Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world. Then, visit the Proteus Vivarium to discover the large number of animals that dwell in the caves, including the famous olms or “baby dragons.” Other highlights include the EXPO Postojna Cave Karst, an exhibition on the cave’s unique karst landscapes, and adventure tours of the neighboring Pivka Cave and Black Cave.
Address: Postojna, Slovenia
Hours: Daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 76
Prague City Gallery
The Prague City Gallery exhibits modern and contemporary art in seven different historic buildings throughout the Czech capital. Guided tours allow visitors to view the collections of 19th- and 20th-century art on display at the Golden Ring House, Municipal Library, and House of Photography, and to take in the palatial surroundings of many of the exhibits. Admire the late 13th-century Stone Bell House with its Gothic facade; the 18th-century Colloredo-Mansfeld Palace and its Baroque and Rococo architecture; and the 17th-century Troja Chateau, which was inspired by Roman villas and hosts a number of sculptures and paintings.
In addition to guided tours, the City Gallery offers scheduled talks and cultural activities, as well as an inside look at the studio of sculptor and architect Frantisek Bilek, located within his Castle District villa. Visitors holding the Prague Welcome Card enter the galleries and other top city museums and attractions for free.
Practical Info
Five of the seven buildings that comprise the Prague City Gallery are located within Prague's Old Town and can be visited in a single walking tour: the Stone Bell House, the Golden Ring House, the Municipal Library, the House of Photography and the Colloredo-Mansfeld Palace. Villa Bilek is located across the river in the Castle District, while the Troja Chateau is a few miles outside of the center and must be reached by bus or taxi.
The gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm, but hours vary slightly by location. Adult admission is 120 CZK for each building, with the exception of Colloredo-Mansfeld Palace (entrance is free) and Bilek's studio (50 CZK). Youth admission costs 60 CZK. Visitors enter free with the Prague Welcome Card, which includes admission to other city attractions such as Wallenstein Palace and the Franz Kafka Museum, as well as unlimited public transportation use (included in upgrade).
Address: Staroměstské náměstí 13, Prague, Czech Republic
Hours: Tues–Sun: 10am–6pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Portuguese Synagogue
Built in the late 17th century, the Portuguese Synagogue in Amsterdam is one of the most significant legacies of Jewish history in the entire city. During the 16th and 17th, century when the Jewish community was facing persecution in Spain and Portugal, many fled to Amsterdam and the concept of building the biggest synagogue in the world began.
Building of the Portuguese Synagogue began in 1671 and was complete in 1675. Restorations have been made over the years but overall it stands today as it did over 300 years ago. Still in use by the Jewish community in Amsterdam, it also attracts swathes of visitors who come to marvel at its ancient architecture and beguiling interior.
The synagogue is located in a complex that also houses a number of other buildings, including the rabbinate, a mortuary, and the Ets Haim (Tree of Life) library, which is home to a valuable collection of Sephardic Jewish manuscripts.
Practical Info
The Portuguese Synagogue is located at Mr. Visserplein 3 and can be reached via tram lines 9 or 14 – or via the 51, 53 or 54 metro lines to the Waterlooplein stop. Opening times vary throughout the year and visitors should be aware that the synagogue is closed on Saturdays, Jewish holidays and for special events. Entrance fee for adults is €6.50.
Address: Mr. Visserplein 3, Amsterdam 1011 RD, Netherlands
Admission: €6.50
From $ 16
Prada Outlets
Italian style is famous the world over, and one of the most recognized fashion labels from Italy is Prada. To find this popular designer’s chic bags, shoes, and clothing at discounts of up to 50 percent off retail prices, head to the large Prada outlet (aka Space) just outside of Florence.
The Basics
The Prada outlet stocks the luxe brand’s clothing, cosmetics, shoes, and bags for men, women, and children as well as with fashion and accessories by Miu Miu. Expect to find deep discounts on the entire stock, which focuses on classic looks from this trendy label.
The best way to visit Space is by joining a shopping tour from Florence so you can concentrate on browsing without having to worry about transportation. Many shopping tours also include a stop at the nearby Gucci outlet or the Mall, an outlet center hosting a number of Italian and international labels including Armani, Pucci, Fendi, Burberry, and La Perla.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Prada outlet is a must for luxury-brand lovers and shopaholics.
- Only 200 customers are allowed inside the store at one time, so you must get a numbered ticket from the automatic machine next to the front door to enter.
- Credit cards and cash in a number of currencies are accepted.
- Space’s café serves drinks and light snacks.
- The outlet is entirely accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Space is outside Montevarchi, about 31 miles (50 kilometers) south of Florence. Take the train to the Montevarchi train station and then take a taxi to the outlet. Alternatively, join a shopping tour that includes transportation from Florence.
When to Get There
The Prada outlet is open from 10:30am to 8pm Sunday to Friday, and from 9:30am on Saturday; last entrance is at 7:30pm. It can be very crowded on weekends and holidays, so visit during the weekdays. Shop during Italy’s two sale seasons—beginning January 1 and July 1—for even better bargains.
Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Mall
Just a short drive from the Prada outlet, the Mall is one of Tuscany’s most famous outlet shopping centers, with dedicated stores selling luxury fashions and accessories from some of the most famous designer labels. The Mall also includes a Gucci-brand restaurant as well as bus and shuttle services from Florence.
Address: Levanella Spacceo, Strada Statale 69, Montevarchi, Florence 50060, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 107