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River Avon

Winding its way through the Warwickshire countryside in England’s West Midlands, the River Avon is perhaps best known for its namesake town, Stratford-upon-Avon, famously the birthplace of William Shakespeare. The scenic river passes through the heart of the medieval town and boat tours offer a new perspective for visitors, passing waterfront landmarks like the

Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the Swan Theatre, Holy Trinity Church and Lucy’s Mill Wier.

As well as being the lifeblood of Stratford-Upon-Avon, the River Avon is well connected to England’s waterways, joining the River Severn at Tewkesbury and linked via the Stratford-Upon-Avon canal to Birmingham.

Practical Info

The River Avon runs for 85 miles (137 km) from Naseby in Northamptonshire to join the River Severn at Tewkesbury.

England

From ¥ 186

River Cam

Flowing through the heart of Cambridge, the River Cam is not only the city’s lifeline, but one of its most captivating natural landmarks. The most visited section of the river runs between Bishops Mill and Jesus Lock, lined by the grand buildings of Cambridge University and aptly nicknamed ‘The Backs’ as it’s framed by the ‘backs’ of eight colleges. Following the river along this stretch affords impressive views of King’s College, the Wren Library at Trinity College and landmarks like the Bridge of Sighs and the Mathematical Bridge.

For visitors to Cambridge, the quintessential local activity is punting along the River Cam – a chauffeured cruise in a flat-bottomed boat or ‘punt’, propelled along by a 5-meter-long pole. A romantic, slow-paced punting tour is ideal for sightseeing as you’ll float downstream with plenty of time to snap photos and admire the riverside landmarks.

The River Cam is also a popular recreational ground, with university rowing teams using it to practice for the prestigious Oxford-Cambridge boat race (held along the River Thames in London each spring). Walkways run along parts of the river and many pubs and restaurants offer riverside views, while the grassy banks make an idyllic picnic spot during the summer months.

Practical Info

The River Cam runs for around 14 miles (23km) from Ashwell in Hertfordshire and through central Cambridge until it meets the River Ouse.

England

From ¥ 97

Roman Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma)

Though Rome’s Jewish Ghetto no longer officially exists (it was abolished in 1882), the neighborhood is still the center of Rome’s Jewish community, the oldest in Italy. The city’s 19th-century synagogue— home to the Jewish Museum of Rome— is here, as are winding lanes lined with kosher restaurants, markets, and butchers.

Like many cities in Europe, Rome required its Jewish residents to live in a separate, walled-off neighborhood during the Middle Ages. The Roman Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma) was established in 1555, when the city erected walls around this area in the historic center; these barriers were torn down only after the ghetto was abolished in 1882. Today, despite its unhappy history, the Jewish Ghetto is now one of Rome’s most beautiful neighborhoods.

The Basics

Walking tours focused on the city’s Jewish life and food tours highlighting the neighborhood’s cuisine are excellent ways to discover the history and culture of this unique corner of Rome. You can also book a private tour of the area, allowing for customized experiences for those with limited mobility, food allergies, or other requirements or preferences. For even more insight into Jewish Rome, the synagogue’s museum has a curated collection of documents and artifacts related to local Jewish history.

In addition to its Jewish cultural sights, the Ghetto is home to a number of ancient ruins—the Portico of Octavia (Portico d’Ottavia or Porticus Octaviae) and the Theatre of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello) are the most significant— and the iconic Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) marble mask at the Basilica of St. Mary in Cosmedin (Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin), made famous in the Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck film Roman Holiday.

Things to Know Before You Go

Most small-group Jewish Ghetto tours are on foot or by bike, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
The Jewish Ghetto is located near Rome’s bustling Campo de’ Fiori outdoor market, and many group tours include visits to both.

How to Get There

The Jewish Ghetto is in Rione Sant’Angelo, directly across the Tiber River from the Trastevere neighborhood and not far from the Roman Forum. There are no metro stops near the Ghetto, but a number of city bus lines connect it with the train station and other parts of the city.

When to Get There

A Rome tour focused on the Jewish Ghetto is best scheduled when the neighborhood businesses are open; many close for the Sabbath from Friday at sunset to Saturday at sunset.

The Turtle Fountain

The Eternal City is known for its dozens of beautiful fountains, and one of the prettiest is the Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe) in the ghetto’s Piazza Mattei. Dating from the late Renaissance, this small fountain’s original dolphin decorations were replaced by turtles due to low water pressure, resulting in the endearing version we see today.

Italy

From ¥ 211

Roman Bridge (Puente Romano)

Several bridges traverse the Guadalquiver River as it weaves through the southern Spanish city of Córdoba, but one is more special than the others: the Roman Bridge, or Puente Romano.

Constructed in the early first century BC by the Romans, this ancient structure may have even been preceded by an earlier wooden bridge. In fact, it is believed that the ancient Roman road Via Augusta passed over its foundation, connecting Rome to Cádiz in the south of Spain. Since those early times, the Roman Bridge has been reconstructed many times, and heavily so by the Moors in the 10th century, when it was extended to what you see today.

Each end of the structure is anchored by two towers, which were built during Islamic rule in the Middle Ages. The Calahorra Tower sits to the south, and then the Puerta del Puente to the north (which was reconstructed in the 16th century), beyond which you will find the Grand Mosque, or Mezquita. Midway across the span resides a statue of San Rafael, the patron saint of Córdoba, and where devout Catholics stop to pray or light a candle.

Until 2004, cars were allowed to cross the bridge, but now it is strictly used for pedestrians only. Today’s Puente Romano, with its 16 arcades, spans 247 meters, is 9 meters wide, and has certainly seen centuries of history travel across its back.

Practical Info:

The Roman Bridge is located just south of the Mezquita, or Grand Mosque, and also only steps away from the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos.

Spain

From ¥ 117

Rock of Cashel

The fifth-century home of the kings of Munster, the Rock of Cashel—or St. Patrick’s Rock, as it’s also known—is now home to a collection of religious monuments, including a roofless medieval cathedral and a 12th-century chapel. Set atop an elevated knoll, the site commands excellent views over the green, grassy Irish countryside.

The Basics

When visiting the Rock of Cashel, you can tour the site independently or join one of the 45-minute guided tours that take place several times a day. These guided tours cover St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the 92-foot (28-meter) 12th-century round tower, the high cross, and the Romanesque St. Cormac’s Chapel.

You can visit the Rock of Cashel as part of half or full-day organized sightseeing tours from both Dublin and Cork, which typically include other nearby attractions such as Blarney Castle and Kilkenny. The Rock of Cashel also features on multi-day tours from Dublin, along with other attractions around the Ring of Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way, Cork, and Connemara.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Rock of Cashel is a must for history buffs.
Allow around 1–1.5 hours to properly explore.
Bring rainproof gear, as much of the site is in the open air.
Wheelchair users can be accommodated with advance notice. Most of the paths and some of the buildings at the site are accessible.

How to Get There

The Rock of Cashel is situated near the town of Cashel in County Tipperary. From Cork, follow the M8; the journey should take around one hour and 10 minutes. From Limerick, follow the N24, N74, and R932 to Cashel.

When to Get There

The Rock of Cashel is open throughout the year. The busiest time to visit is during the summer months, June through August. If you’re planning a trip during these months, consider coming in early morning or later afternoon to avoid the crowds.

What Else to See in Cashel

After viewing the medieval ruins, take some time to wander the nearby market town of Cashel. Admire the brightly painted pubs, pop into the Cashel Heritage Centre, and browse the memorabilia on show at the Cashel Folk Village. Other worthwhile sights in the area include the ancient ruins of Athassel Priory and Hore Abbey. Brú Ború cultural center, situated at the foot of the Rock of Cashel, focuses on Irish music and dance and is a must-see for fans of traditional Irish culture.

Tipperary, Ireland

Mid Sept - Mid Oct: 9am - 5:30pm, Mid Oct - Mid March: 9am - 4:30pm, Mid March - Early June: 9am - 5:30pm, Early June - Mid Sept: 9am - 7pm

Adults: $8, Children: $4

From ¥ 305

Roman Theater

Sitting underneath the Alcazaba (fortified citadel), the Roman theater is Málaga’s oldest monument and was built during the reign of Emperor Augustus. It was at the cultural heart of the city for 300 years until the Moors began to plunder the stone to build the Alcazaba between the eighth and 11th centuries; Roman columns taken from the theater can clearly be seen in the Puerta de las Columnas (gate of the columns) at the entrance to the citadel. The theater was abandoned, buried and forgotten for centuries before finally being rediscovered in 1951 during a civic construction project.

After decades of restoration work, the theater stands proud once more; it measures 102 ft (31 m) across and 52 (16 m) in height; the stage, orchestra pit, entrance gateways and crescent-shaped, tiered auditorium – which seats 220 spectators – have all been carefully resurrected. It was re-opened in 2011 and entrance is through an Interpretation Center, which details the story of the theater’s long history and its rebirth through interactive displays. Pottery artifacts uncovered during excavation are also on display here. In summer the theater provides an atmospheric venue for a program of open-air concerts and plays.

Practical Info

Entrance to the Roman theater is free of charge. There’s no disabled access and it is open from Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Monday. There is underground parking close to the Alcazaba.

Calle Alcazabilla, Málaga, 29005, Spain

Tue-Sun, Closed Mondays

From ¥ 117

River Maritime Museum (Museo Maritimo Ria)

Bilbao’s growth and its maritime history go hand in hand given the city’s 20th-century growth as one of Europe’s prominent port cities. The River Maritime Museum dives into this history, going deeper than just Bilbao’s seafaring past to also reveal the background of the port, the people that lived along the estuary, and how it all impacted the city’s evolution.

The museum is appropriately located along the dry docks of the old Euskalduna shipyard (built in 1900 and closed in 1984), a kid-friendly space that features both indoor and outdoor exhibitions. Inside, visitors can watch an intriguing video on Bilbao’s history, and spy model ships and boats, along with life-sized ones too, including a reproduction of the fancy wooden Consulate’s felucca. Then, outside, you can explore the dry docks, other exhibits, and walk along the estuary.

Practical Info

Note that the museum is free to enter on Tuesdays from September through June, and is closed on Mondays throughout the year. If you wish to explore more of the river, which leads north to the Bay of Biscay, there are sailing excursions that allow you to do so.

Muelle Ramón de la Sota, 1, Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain 48011, Spain

Winter: Tues-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat, Sun and bank holidays: 10am-8pm. Summer: Tues-Sun 10am-8pm. The museum is closed on Mondays year round.

General: €6; Children: €3.5; Under six years old: Free

From ¥ 744

Rochester

The historical city of Rochester, located east of London, was a special place for well known author Charles Dickens as this was his childhood home and the place where he lived later in life. Many buildings and other locations in Rochester were featured in Dickens' writings, more than any other city besides London. Some of the buildings that still exist today include the Restoration House, which was used as the home of Estella and Miss Havisham in Great Expectations, and the Poor Travellers House, which was featured in a short Christmas story.

Visitors can also go to the Guildhall Museum of local history where you can learn more about Charles Dickens and his works. There is also a walking tour through the city that guides you to the buildings and locations he wrote about. Other highlights in Rochester include the Rochester Cathedral which was founded in 604 and is the second oldest cathedral in England. Visitors can also explore Rochester Castle and the views from the top of one of the tallest keeps in the country.

Practical Info

Rochester is located 32 miles east of London and can be reached by train from London's Victoria Station.

Rochester, South East England, United Kingdom, England

From ¥ 1,002

River Seine

The lifeblood of Paris, the River Seine plays many roles in the city: It separates the Right Bank from the Left Bank, acting as a dividing line between Paris’ historically sophisticated and bohemian halves; it provides transportation via riverboat and plenty of opportunity for romantic strolls; and its riverbanks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with the city’s top landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Musée d’Orsay, Jardin des Tuileries, and the Louvre.

The Basics

One of the best ways to see the Seine is to walk along it, particularly on the central stretch from Les Invalides to Ile Saint-Louis, where you can zigzag across the river on bridges such as Pont Alexandre III, Pont Royal, and Pont des Arts to see some of the most elegant and well-known architecture in France. Alternatively, a Seine River cruise allows you to rest your legs and admire the same sights; book a brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise to combine your sightseeing with a French meal, or opt for an Eiffel Tower combo to enjoy two of Paris’ most popular activities in one tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

Running through Paris’ main tourist areas, the river’s hard to miss; you won’t have to go far to find it.
More than 30 bridges span the Seine within Paris city limits.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the banks and bridges.
Be prepared for crowds on popular bridges like Pont des Arts.

How to Get There

Bordering 10 of Paris’ 20 arrondissements—the 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 12th, 13th, 15th, and 16th—the Seine is within walking distance of many of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. By Metro, get off at Alma-Marceau, Invalides, Pont Neuf, or Saint-Michel–Notre-Dame station to reach the most central stretch of the river.

When to Get There

For a tranquil walk, head to the river in the early morning hours before most of the crowds and commuters arrive. Or go for an after-dinner stroll to take in the reflections of the City of Light on the water.

Exploring Canal Saint-Martin

In northeast Paris, the Canal Saint-Martin district is home to smaller waterways where footbridges and trendy locals replace the Seine’s traffic and tourists. Enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere and watch boats on the locks with a wander along the tree-shaded paths.

France

From ¥ 109

Roman Odeon

The Roman Odeon is an ancient theater in Taormina, Italy. It is small in size and was likely used for small-scale vocal and literary performances for the city's elite. This theater was built in 21 BC under the rule of the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus Octavian. It was discovered by accident in the late 1800s when a man was digging in his land. Excavations eventually uncovered the theater and found it to be very similar to the larger Greek-Roman theater in another part of the city.

The theater included a Greek temple, and the marble steps that made up its base have been preserved. The theater itself has also been well preserved over the centuries, and visitors can still see the red clay bricks that form the different sections: stage, orchestra, and audience. It could hold about 200 people. Today it is used for a variety of events, such as the setting for a nativity scene during the Christmas season.

Practical Info

The Roman Odeon is located near Palazzo Corvaia on Via Timeo. It is about one mile from the Taormina-Giardini train station.

Corso Umberto, Taormina, Sicily 98039, Italy

From ¥ 149

Roman Baths

This first-century Roman bathhouse complex was a meeting point for patricians who came to bathe, drink the curative waters, and socialize. The baths fell out of use with the Roman exodus from Britain but were rediscovered and excavated in the late-19th century. Explore the Great Bath, which is filled with steaming, mineral-rich water from Bath’s hot springs.

The Basics

The Roman Baths are the headline attraction in Bath, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Being just 115 miles (185 kilometers) from central London and within day-tripping distance of Oxford, Brighton, Bournemouth, and Southampton, Bath is a very popular day-tour destination for visitors to South England.

Organized day tours often combine a trip to Bath and the Roman Baths with a visit to the prehistoric Stonehenge monument, the picturesque Cotswolds village of Lacock, Windsor Castle, or the cathedral town of Salisbury. If you want to begin your tour in Bath itself, try a guided walking tour of the Georgian city that includes other top attractions such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and Gothic Bath Abbey. Hop-on hop-off tour buses also stop at the Roman Baths.

Things to Know Before You Go

The hot water that flows throughout the Roman Baths complex, via the Sacred Spring, is untreated, hence bathing is not allowed.
Wear sturdy shoes as the stone floors are uneven.
Audio guides are provided, and free tours take place hourly.
The complex is below street level, and features narrow walkways that may trigger claustrophobia.

How to Get There

Bath-bound Great Western Railway trains depart from London’s Paddington station and take about 90 minutes. The Roman Baths are about a 10-minute walk from Bath Spa train station.

When to Get There

The Roman Baths are the city’s showpiece attraction and, as such, draw big crowds, particularly during July and August weekends. If you are visiting at this time, arrive before 10am or during the evening. In summer, it’s possible to visit at night, when the baths are lit by torches.

Drinking the Thermal Waters

Within the same complex as the Roman Baths is the elaborate Pump Room, a lavish 18th-century construction that served as a socializing spot for Bath’s Georgian elite. The Pump Room now houses a restaurant as well as the King’s Spa fountain, which spouts mineral water directly from the springs. Visitors can try the warm thermal waters, which are said to have curative properties. Be warned: The sulfur-tinged flavor is not to everyone’s taste.

Stall St, Bath, United Kingdom BA1 1LZ, England

Varies by season

Adult £16.50, Child £10.25

From ¥ 65

Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Kirkko)

Hewn into solid rock in the middle of a residential square, Helsinki’s Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Kirkko) features a circular ceiling covered entirely with copper stripping. Natural light streams in through 180 window panes, while an ice age crevice in the natural rock serves as the altar.

The Basics

Architect brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen designed the Rock Church in 1969. Although it was originally controversial in Finland, the Lutheran church is now a source of civic pride and a top Helsinki attraction. Also known as the Church of the Rock or Temppeliaukio Church, the structure is featured on most Helsinki sightseeing tours including bus excursions, private tours, and walking tours of the downtown area. If you’d rather visit on your own schedule, the Helsinki Card also includes admission to Rock Church.

Things to Know Before You Go

Rock Church is a must-see for architecture lovers and first-time visitors to Helsinki.
The building often hosts classical concerns, as it’s raw rock walls provide wonderful acoustics.
The church's entrance is on street level, making it easily accessible for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Rock Church is located in the Töölö neighborhood of Helsinki. You can reach the church on tram 3T or 3B, or by train. Guided tours typically provide round-trip transportation and can save you the hassle of driving and navigation.

When to Get There

Part of what makes Temppeliaukio Church so special is the play of natural light on the rock walls. This light show depends on the season and time of day, but arriving before noon is a good bet for getting the best photos. Please note that the church is often closed for weddings, christenings, concerts, and special events; if you plan to visit independently, be sure to call ahead to check opening hours.

Architectural History of Rock Church

A competition was held to determine the design of the church, and when the Suomalainen brothers won, the rough rock walls were not a part of their original design—they thought the idea too radical for the competition. But, when Finnish composer/conductor Paavo Berglund shared his knowledge of acoustics and acoustical engineer Mauri Parjo gave requirements for the wall surfaces, the architects realized that the raw rock was a perfect solution.

Lutherinkatu 3, Helsinki 00100, Finland

Free

From ¥ 227

Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Set among four hectares of Ayrshire countryside in the village of Alloway, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is a celebration of the life and work of Scotland’s most famous wordsmith.

The extensive museum contains a collection of over 5,000 artifacts relating to the Bard’s life, work and legacy. Visit Burns Cottage, where the poet was born, see the grand monument dedicated to him, and wander the commemorative gardens created in honor of the great “Rabbie” Burns. From the lawn, you can also see the famous Brig o’Doon, a 15th-century bridge immortalized in the Burns’ poem Tam o’ Shanter.

Practical Info

Entry to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum costs £9 for adults and includes entry to all exhibitions and the Burns Cottage. Tickets are valid for three days. The museum is based in Alloway, 40 minutes from Glasgow by car and also reachable by public transit (take the train to Ayr, then a local bus over to Alloway). There’s also a large self-service, on-site restaurant that serves hot breakfast and lunch.

Murdoch's Lone, Alloway, Ayr, United Kingdom KA7 4PQ, Scotland

£9

From ¥ 307

River Liffey

Flowing through the center of town and dividing Dublin in two, the River Liffey is the waterway around which the city first grew and developed, and it remains at the heart of city life. Originating in the Wicklow Mountains, the river flows through Wicklow, Kildare, and Dublin, before emptying into the Irish Sea at Dublin Bay.

The Basics

With many of Dublin’s top attractions situated on either the north or south bank of the river, visitors to Dublin are guaranteed to see the River Liffey. Most walking tours of the city pass over the river via the pedestrianized Ha’penny Bridge, moving between Temple Bar on the south side of the city and O’Connell Street on the north side. Hop-on hop-off tour buses and sightseeing buses also pass over the Liffey via O’Connell Bridge.

Of course, the best way to experience the River Liffey is to get out on the water. Choose from among leisurely river cruises, trips on amphibious vehicles, and kayaking excursions.

Things to Know Before You Go

Exploring the River Liffey and its immediate surrounds is a must for first-time visitors to Dublin.
If you plan on swimming, know that the waters of the Liffey are cold year-round.
Wheelchair-accessible boat cruises are offered, and many of the paths that run alongside the river’s edge are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

How to Get There

The River Liffey is accessible from many different parts of Dublin, but the most attraction-packed stretch flows through the city center. To get there, ride the Green Line Luas to the Westmoreland stop or the Red Line Luas to Abbey Street.

When to Get There

Kayaking excursions and cruises run on the Liffey year-round. The best time for riverside walks is early morning, before the commuting crowds arrive, or at dusk when you can watch the city light up. Open-water swimmers may want to attempt the Liffey Swim, a race that takes place annually in late August or early September.

Attractions Along the River Liffey

The Liffey is lined with some of Dublin’s most well-known attractions. Stroll east from O’Connell Bridge along the north side of the river and you’ll reach the Custom House, the Famine Memorial, and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. Temple Bar is on the south bank, where you’ll find Smock Alley Theatre, Christ Church Cathedral, and Dublinia.

Dublin, Ireland

From ¥ 102

Roman Catacombs

The miles of underground cemetery that comprise the Roman Catacombs are some of the oldest burial tunnels in the world. Located just outside the city and hidden deep underground, the catacombs were created in the second century in response to a shortage of land for deceased’s remains. Today the narrow tunnels are eerily quiet and full of Roman history, including some of the best-preserved early Christian frescoes and sculptures—and, in the bone-adorned Capuchin Crypt, a Caravaggio. Look out for ancient wall paintings and mosaics lining the walls, as well as the catacombs of St. Agnes, Domitilla, and Priscilla, home to the oldest known depiction of the Virgin Mary.

The Basics

As burial inside the Roman walls was forbidden by law, you’ll find the catacombs of Rome—of which there are at least 40—on the roads just outside of the city itself. Five are open to visitors, including St. Sebastian and St. Callixtus, both of which are located on Via Appia Antica. A trip to the catacombs is often combined with a visit to the Roman countryside and the ancient Appian Way, either on foot or by bike. Choose a tour tailored for kids and families, one focused on ghosts and mystery, or a walking tour with skip-the-line access to beat the crowds. For an exclusive after-hours experience, tour the crypt at night when it’s closed to the public. English-speaking guides explain past burial rituals and give historical context to the sights.

Things to Know Before You Go

Due to the delicate nature of the surroundings, travelers cannot visit the catacombs independently; all visits must be part of a guided group or private tour. Admission includes a guided tour.
Tours and group visits can be arranged upon arrival at the most popular catacombs, but visits must be booked in advance at the less-visited areas.
Catacomb tours are not recommended for travelers who may get claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
Catacombs are holy places, so guests should dress appropriately—all should cover their shoulders and thighs. It’s best to also have a light jacket, as it can get cold underground.

How to Get to There

You’ll find the Roman Catacombs on Via Appia Antica, Via Ostiense, Via Labicana, Via Salaria, and other roads. They can be reached by public transport on various metro and bus lines. Many tours depart from Rome’s Piazza Barberini.

When to Get to There

Most of Rome’s crypts and catacombs are open year-round from 9am to noon and from 2 to 5pm, though typically they are closed on Sundays. Compared with world-famous attractions in Italy such as the Colosseum, they are less visited. Still, limited access to the catacombs makes booking in advance a good idea, especially around Easter and between May and September, when Rome swarms with travelers. The cool catacombs make for a great break from Italy’s summer heat, but the quieter months are recommended for thinner crowds.

Rome’s Strangest Sight?

Perhaps the most interesting sight in the catacombs is the Capuchin Crypt, or Bone Chapel, an area containing—and decorated with—the bones of 4,000 Capuchin friars. Crypt rooms are themed by different types of bones, from skulls to pelvis and leg bones.

Italy

Open daily 9am - noon and 2pm - 5pm

€8 for adults, €5 for children 7-15, free for children 6 and below

From ¥ 127

Roman Necropolis Museum (Museo de la Necropolis Romana)

This museum and historic site offers a glimpse into the ancient history of Andalusia, back to a time when it was first inhabited by Romans. Stepping outside of an old walled enclosure, there are many excavated sites to explore. Visitors have the chance to see the Puerta de Sevilla gate, an amphitheater, and of course the funeral and graveyards areas themselves. Many of the tombs here are actually family mausoleums, first discovered by French archaeologists in the late 19th century. There are also traces of ancient mining and pottery facilities and equipment.

The necropolis is situated on a hill below the small town of Carmona. Surrounded by Cypress trees, there are still nearly 1,000 family tombs that date back to as early as the second century BC. Often frescoed and containing rare funeral urns, the archeological site has been well preserved. A tour of the grounds is an insightful look at daily urban life of the past.

Practical Info

Located just outside the city of Seville, the Roman Necropolis Museum is in the town of Carmona. You can get there by walking 10-15 minutes from the center of town, or take a bus from nearby Sevilla. The museum is open daily except for Mondays.

Av. Jorge Bonsor, 9, Carmona, Andalucia, Spain

Tues-Sat from 9AM–6PM, Sun from 9AM–3PM

€1.50

From ¥ 1,203

Rock of Aphrodite (Petra tou Romiou)

A looming stack of rocks standing proud off the southwest coast of Cyprus, the UNESCO-listed Rock of Aphrodite, or Petra Tou Romiou (Rock of the Greek), is one of the island’s most famous landmarks and the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, according to Greek mythology.

The Basics

The Rock of Aphrodite is part of Cyprus’ Aphrodite Cultural Route, and visitors can follow the walking trail from neighboring Kouklia Beach or take a boat trip along the coast. Most travelers visit on a day trip from nearby Paphos, Limassol, or Ayia Napa, often in combination with seeing the ancient ruins of Kourion or sights of Paphos, such as the Tomb of the Kings and the Villa of Dionysos.

One of the most popular pastimes in this area is swimming around the rock, although no one is permitted to climb on the rock itself. The act of circling the rock is alleged to bestow beauty and fertility on those swimmers who complete the loop.

Things to Know Before You Go

There is no entrance fee for visiting the Rock of Aphrodite.
The waters around the Rock of Aphrodite can be quite rough, and only strong swimmers should try the loop around the rock.
A restaurant and parking lot are situated above the beach, with a view of the rock.
The Rock of Aphrodite viewpoint is wheelchair accessible, but the beach can only be reached via stairs.

How to Get There

The Rock of Aphrodite is located on Cyprus’ southwest coast, along the A6 highway, about 25 minutes’ drive from Paphos. Buses run directly to the rock from Paphos’ harbor and take about 30 minutes.

When to Get There

It’s possible to visit the Rock of Aphrodite anytime, but day-trippers arrive in droves throughout July and August, so get there early if you hope to take a crowd-free photo. The rock is most impressive at sunset.

The Legend of Aphrodite’s Rock

Guarding the coastline since ancient times, Aphrodite’s Rock is more than just a geological wonder. The sacred rock takes its name from the Greek goddess of love and beauty, who is said to have to have risen from the ocean at this spot. Legend has it that, in certain weather conditions, the waves rising and breaking against the rock create a cloud of sea foam that appears in the shape of a human.

Cyprus

From ¥ 282

Road to the Isles

Dotted with small Scottish towns and with no shortage of scenery, the aptly named “Road to the Isles” is one of Scotland’s most beautiful drives and provides the base for exploring the Small Isles and Skye. Stretching from the base of the UK’s tallest mountain to a port town on the sea, both coastal and mountainous scenery abound. The unspoiled landscapes through the Highlands of Scotland have been the site of many film and television scenes — perhaps most famously in the Harry Potter films.

There are many stops to enjoy along the way, progressing from mountain towns, lochs (or lakes) and glens to isles, inlets, and white sand beaches. Of particular note is Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight lochs with views of the mountain Ben Nevis, and Glenfinnan, home to the historic monument where Bonnie Prince Charlie once raised his Highland army.

Practical Info

The Road to the Isles is located on the western coast of North Scotland, on the A830 road from Fort William to Mallaig. At roughly 46 miles long, it takes just over an hour to drive with no stops (though you will want to stop.) There is also a Jacobite train journey during the summer months that runs to Mallaig. From there you can catch a ferry to the Isle of Skye.

Highland PH33, Scotland, UK, Scotland

From ¥ 377

Roman Forum

A sprawling mass of ruins, the Roman Forum (Fori Imperiali) was once the center of ancient Rome, with temples, courts, markets, and government buildings in full swing until the 4th century AD. While all that remains today is an array of ancient columns and arches, the forum is one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy, and excavations occur to this day. Aside from a lesson in Roman history, visitors can get a great view of the Eternal City from the overlooking Palatine and Capitoline hills.

The Basics
The site is most often visited on three-hour tours that combine a visit to the ancient city with a Colosseum tour. Whether you choose a private tour or small-group tour, it's wise to visit with an expert guide who can help you navigate the large space and bring the ruins to life with true stories of gladiators, Roman emperors, and Julius Caesar. After your visit, check out the adjacent ruins at Circus Maximus or pay a visit to the Capitoline Museums to see the display of classical Roman empire sculptures.

Most tour options include hotel pickup and dropoff.
Standard admission tickets to the Roman Forum include entry to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
Don’t waste time in line—skip-the-line entry is available for both the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.
Staying in Florence but want to see Rome? Book a day trip with round-trip transportation by high-speed train, also available from Milan and Naples.

How To Get to the Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is located in the area between Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum in the southeastern end of Rome’s historical center. You can get there by metro and bus from most central hotels. The closest metro stop is Colosseo.

When to Get There
As the Roman Forum shares an admission ticket with the Colosseum, it stays consistently busy throughout the day and often has long lines. Choose a walking tour with priority access to jump the queue and maximize your time.

Discovering the Roman Forum Ruins
Inside the archaeological area, stick to the Forum’s main thoroughfare, Via Sacra, to pass by important ruins such as the Julia Curia and the house of the Vestal Virgins. Some of the forum’s most impressive ruins include the white marble arch of Settimio Severo, the first-century Arch of Titus, and the remains of the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine. If you can’t get enough of ancient Rome, there’s plenty more history just outside the city with day trips available to Pompeii and the Appian Way.

Largo Romolo e Remo, Rome 00186, Italy

Summer: 8:30am–7:15pm, Winter: 8:30am–4:30pm. Closed Dec 25 & Jan 1

Full: 12 euros; EU Citizens 18-25: 7.50 euros; online reservation fee: 2 euros

From ¥ 156

River Dee

Winding its way through Wales and England for approximately 70 miles (110 km), the River Dee might not be one of the UK’s longest rivers, but it’s certainly among the most scenic. Flowing from the mountains of Snowdonia, tracing the natural border of Wales and England, and finally joining the sea along the Wirral Peninsula, the river passes natural landmarks like Bala Lake, beautiful promenades like The Groves in Chester and wildlife havens like the Dee Estuary.

The easiest way to explore the River Dee is on a boat tour from Chester, where it’s possible to cruise around the Eaton Estate, home of the Duke and Duchess of Westminster, as well as passing through the Meadows wetlands and the Earl’s Eye conservation area. Alternatively, thrill-seekers can head to Llangollen in Wales, where the rocky riverbeds, rapids and waterfalls offer opportunities for white water rafting.

Practical Info

The River Dee runs from Snowdonia in Wales to the Wirral Peninsula, passing towns such as Llangollen in Wales and Chester in England.

North West England, England

From ¥ 439