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Tromso Fjords
Thanks to its spectacular setting among a series of islands and skerries laced with waterways and scalloped inlets, Tromso is the epicenter of day trips out into the fjords bordering the Norwegian Sea. These long, narrow sea inlets are characterized by steep, mountainous slopes carved out by glaciation during the last Ice Age.
The Basics
If you are staying in Tromso, you have a wide choice of half- and full-day tours into the fjords. Some cruises are focused on viewing the surrounding landscapes—such as the sharp peaks of Balsfjord—while others are dedicated wildlife-watching tours. You can book a fishing trip and catch cod, salmon, and halibut from out of the deep fjord waters, or go kayaking or canoeing in summer. If you’d like to stay on dry land, hiking and snowshoeing tours offer spectacular fjord views.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Tromso fjords are a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Dress warmly—it is cold out on the water, even in summer. Many tours include the use of waterproof clothing.
- Kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and snowshoeing tours generally include equipment.
How to Get There
Trips to the Tromso fjords typically leave from Tromso city center. Alternatively, a network of ferries, buses, and interisland bridges easily connect Tromso with Grotfjord, Erdsfjord, Balsfjord, Lyngsfjord, and Kattfjord.
When to Get There
June through August, the long days and midnight sun mean you can pack more adventures into a single day and the water is (just) warm enough for swimming. Wintertime offers whale-watching, as well as nighttime trips out into the fjords to catch the shimmering pinks, yellows, and greens of the northern lights—your best chances of seeing them are from December to February.
Tromso’s Top View
One of the best views of Tromso’s surrounding islands and fjords is from the top of 2,200-foot (670-meter) Floya. To get there, ride the cable car from Solliveien in the Tromsdalen neighborhood to Storsteinen and then walk the rest of the way, or climb the 324 steps of the Sherpa Staircase.
Address: Tromsø, Norway
From $ 96
Trinity College
One of the constituent colleges of the University of Oxford, Trinity College was originally founded as a training house for Catholic priests in the 16th century. It was a center of educational reform in the 19th century and over the years has produced three British prime ministers. The college was an all-male institution until 1979 and today has a very small student body, with just around 400 students. The grounds are surrounded by an iron palisade and consist of four major quadrangles, a large lawn and extensive gardens. On top of the West Tower, look for four female statues representing astronomy, geometry, medicine and theology. Trinity’s chapel was the first college chapel to be designed in the Baroque style and the school is home to one of the largest chapel choirs in the university.
Practical Info
The main entrance to Trinity College is on Broad Street in Oxford, located between Balliol College and Blackwell’s bookshop and opposite Turl Street. Additional entrances can be found on St Giles’ and Parks Road. Oxford can be reached from London by either bus or train. From the Oxford train station, turn left past the Said Business School and walk straight along Hythe Bridge Street and George Street onto Broad Street and Trinity will be on the left. The bus station is at Gloucester Green, just off George Street, a five minute walk from Trinity.
Address: Broad Street, Oxford, England
From $ 19
Triton Fountain (Fontana del Tritone)
Piazza Barberini is easy to overlook, as it’s relatively small and surrounded by busy streets, but at its center is the Triton Fountain, a sculptural masterpiece by Gian Lorenzo Bernini.
The Triton Fountain, or Fontana del Tritone in Italian, was commissioned by Pope Urban VIII and built in 1642-1643 by Bernini. It was an outlet of the Acqua Felice aqueduct that the pope had just restored, and was the first public fountain Bernini designed that was free-standing.
The fountain features a large figure of Triton at its center, holding a conch shell to his mouth and blowing water out of it. Below him are four dolphins, whose tails form the base on which he kneels. Bernini also worked in the symbols of his patron, the Barberini family - there are bees carved into the dolphin tails.
The Barberini Palace is near the fountain on the square (today, it is home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art), and another Bernini fountain dedicated to Pope Urban VIII is not far away - it is known as the Fountain of the Bees.
Practical Info
There is another fountain in Rome with a similar name - Fountain of the Tritons - in front of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, the church where you’ll find the Mouth of Truth. That one is not a Bernini creation, so be sure you’re in Piazza Barberini to see the Bernini work.
Address: Piazza Barberini, Rome, Lazio, Italy
From $ 3
Troja Chateau
The lovely late Baroque Troja Chateau was designed by Italian architect Jean Baptiste Mathey for Count Václav Vojtěch Šternberk and was completed in 1689; it was used by the count as his summer residence. The striking russet-red and white palace is entered via a spectacular flight of steps flanked by figures taken from Greek mythology and has an impressively elaborate interior swathed in frescoes; the best are found in the ornate Grand Emperor’s Hall — named for Emperor Leopold I, who came visiting in 1702 — and are by the Dutch artists Abraham and Isaac Godyn; the project took five years to complete. The opulent rooms are filled with sculptures and artwork and the chateau forms part of Prague City Gallery.
Troja is surrounded by formal gardens divided into terraces and parterres and decorated with fountains, statuary and ornamental trees. An imposing stable block stands in the courtyard, with vaulted ceilings decorated by Abraham Godyn with more scenes from Greek mythology.
Northwest of the city center near Prague Zoo and the botanical gardens, the chateau can be reached along the new bike path following the banks of the River Vltava. It is a popular venue for public functions and is only open to the public at weekends, although the grounds are open daily.
Practical Info
U Trojského zámku 4/1, Prague 7. Open May–Oct Sat–Sun 10am–5pm. Admission adult 100 CZK; senior 300 CZK, students & children 60 CZK; family 250 CZK. Entrance to the grounds is free. Bus 112 to Zoologicka zahrada or trams 5, 17 or 25 to Trojska.
Address: U Trojského zámku 4/1, Prague, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic 171 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Open Sat–Sun 10am–5pm
Admission: Adults: 100 CZK; Seniors, Students & Children 50 CZK; Families: 200 CZK
From $ 35
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
Located in the Ibrahim Pasha Palace in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum has a wealth of Islamic art dating from the eighth to the 19th century. The collection ranges from calligraphy and paintings to a spectacular selection of antique rugs, with items from across the Middle East.
The Basics
The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum contains a varied collection that captures the full range of Islamic art across the Middle East. Highlights include handwoven Anatolian carpets, Selçuk-era tiles, nomadic folk art, and whole ornate mosque doors.
Private and small-group tours often combine a visit to the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum with stops at other sights in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is a must-visit for art and history buffs.
- The collection is large, so make sure to allow enough time to explore the museum.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is centrally located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet neighborhood, close to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. It is minutes away from the Sultanahmet tram stop and is also easily accessible by taxi. Parking is limited in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, so a taxi or tram is the most convenient option.
When to Get There
The Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum is open every day, with longer opening hours during the busy summer and shorter opening hours in the winter. The museum rarely feels crowded, so it’s a good bet when the neighborhood’s blockbuster sights are overly full.
Highlights of the Collection
As you stroll the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum, be sure to look for an ornate door taken from the Great Mosque in Cizre that dates to the 12th century. Other highlights include Safavid-era Iranian book bindings, columns from Damascus, Caucasian carpets, and examples of Ottoman calligraphy.
Address: 46 Meydani Sok, Sultanahmet Mah, Istanbul 34122, Turkey
Admission: Varies
From $ 8
Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries)
Designed by landscape architect André Le Nôtre—whose other creations include the Palace of Versailles gardens—in the mid-17th century, the UNESCO-listed Jardin des Tuileries is Paris’ most visited public park, with a spectacular setting between Champs-Elysées Avenue and the Louvre, on the banks of the Seine River.
The Basics
A sightseeing tour of Paris isn’t complete without a stroll through the idyllic Jardin des Tuileries. The park is a stop on many walking and bike tours. Combine a visit with Paris attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, or Montmartre; take a tour of the Musée de l'Orangerie, home to Monet’s Water Lilies; or explore Paris with a private photographer and pose for photos by the park’s ponds and flower beds.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jardin des Tuileries has three restaurants—La Terrasse de Pomone, Café des Marronniers, and Restaurant Le Médicis.
- There is no admission fee to enter the park.
- The park is fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Tuileries Garden is located in Paris’ 1st arrondissement on the right bank of the Seine River. Bordered by Quai des Tuileries and Rue de Rivoli, the gardens offer a scenic route between Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées in the west and the Louvre Museum in the east. The closet metro stations are Concorde and Tuileries, both on Line 1.
When to Get There
The park is open all year and can get busy, especially on sunny afternoons. If you’re hoping to take photos and enjoy the views free from the crowds, aim for an early morning visit. Head to the park during the Fête des Tuileries summer fairground or enjoy festive illumination at Christmastime.
A Walking Tour of the Jardin des Tuileries
Start your walking tour from the Place du Carrousel, enjoying magnificent views of the Louvre Museum with its iconic glass pyramid. Stroll through the Carousel Gardens, past the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, then explore the tree-lined trails of the Tuileries Garden, stopping along the way to admire the many sculptures by French artist Aristide Maillol. Pause to take in the views by the lake, then continue past the Jeu de Paume gallery and Orangerie Museum to meet Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées, which stretches all the way to the Arc de Triomphe.
Address: Rue de Rivoli, Paris 75058, France
Hours: Summer 7am - 9pm, Winter 7:30am - 7:30pm
Admission: Free
From $ 29
Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)
One of Ljubljana’s most iconic landmarks, the striking Triple Bridge connects the central Preseren Square with the Old Town and castle, running over the Ljubljanica River. The aptly named bridge is not one but three adjoining bridges, with the central 19th-century car bridge flanked by two pedestrian bridges that appear to blend seamlessly into one. Today, all three bridges form part of the city’s pedestrian-only sector and from each side-bridge, stairways lead up to tree lined terraces, offering spectacular views along the riverside.
The inspired creation of celebrated local architect Joze Plecnik, the bridge is one of a series of his works that have become synonymous with the city. Constructed in 1931, it’s largely regarded as Plecnik’s architectural masterpiece, with the elegant stone balustrades and period street-lamps providing a grand frontage to the Old Town. Scattered with flower sellers and picnickers during the day and glittering beneath the city lights by night, the Triple Bridge is undoubtedly one of Ljubljana’s most atmospheric walkways.
Address: Across River Ljubljanica connecting Presernov trg to the Old Town, Ljubljana, Slovenia
From $ 20
Tsambika Beach
Hemmed in by a crescent of jagged rocks, golden sands, and crystalline waters, Tsambika Beach is one of Rhodes’ most beautiful beaches. A popular stop for boat cruises around the island, the beach is well-served by beach bars and food huts, but with no town nearby, the focus is firmly on the sun, sea, and sand.
Tsambika takes its name from the Monastery of the Virgin of Tsambika, perched on a 3,280-foot-tall (1,000 m) rock at the north end of the beach. The steep climb to the top, via 297 stone steps, affords spectacular views over Tsambika Bay. The south end of the beach is a designated nudist section.
Visit Tsambika Beach on a day cruise exploring Rhodes' east coast beach spots and scenery. To really leave your worries behind, consider choosing a tour that includes buffet lunch and round trip transportation, or a stop at Kalithea Spa.
Practical Info
Tsambika Beach is located on Rhodes Island, around 16 miles (26 km) south of Rhodes, and can be reached by car and public transport. There is a small parking lot near the beach.
There are no lifeguards or sunbeds on Tsambika Beach, but there are water toys available for purchase.
Address: Tsambika, Rhodes, Greece
From $ 47
Trouville
The chic seaside town of Trouville-sur-Mer is a popular getaway among Parisians seeking respite from the city. Twinned with the even ritzier town of Deauville next door, Trouville maintains its traditional roots as a glamorous beach resort and working fishing port, with Trouville fishermen still seeking out shrimp, mackerel, scallops and sole today.
Less touristy than Deauville, Trouville has long been a hotspot for bohemians, and in the 19th century, writers like Flaubert and famous French artists including Mozin and Boudin came here to be inspired and enjoy the laid-back vibe. Trouville still has a flavor of the Belle Epoque about it, and a real authenticity can be felt in this maritime town, especially at the lively Fish Market (Marché aux Poissons).
Along with Deauville, Trouville is the closest beach to Paris, making it a popular weekend destination. In summer, the town really heats up, especially on the boardwalk that stretches along its golden sands stuffed with colorful parasols and sunbathers. Connected to Deauville by the pont des Belges bridge, it’s also possible to get to Deauville via a footpath at the mouth of the river during low tide.
Practical Info
Trouville is about a two-hour drive west from Paris, and there are also regular TER trains from Paris to the Trouville-Deauville train station.
Address: Trouville, France
From $ 109
Trsteno Arboretum
Built by nobles in the late 15th century, this verdant arboretum is one of Dubrovnik’s top tourist attractions. In addition to plants sourced from the four corners of the globe, the garden also has a 50-foot-long (15 meter) aqueduct used for irrigation purposes, a baroque Neptune fountain, and a pavilion overlooking the Adriatic.
The Basics
The Trsteno Arboretum is a tranquil getaway for travelers based in Dubrovnik. Many guided tours of Dalmatia combine a visit to the garden with trips to nearby sights, such as the walled village of Ston and its salt ponds.
The HBO series, Game of Thrones, used the gardens as a filming location, serving as the on-screen Red Keep Palace garden. For this reason, Trsteno Arboretum is often visited on Game of Thrones-themed tours, which typically go to other filming locations, such as Dubrovnik Old Town and Lovrijenac Fortress. Some Game of Thrones experiences venture as far north as Split to visit additional filming sites, such as Klis Fortress and Diocletian’s Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Trsteno Arboretum is a must for nature lovers.
- Though the foliage provides ample shade, bring along sunscreen as the sun’s rays can be strong here, especially in summer.
- Pick up a map of the garden at the ticket office to help you find your way around.
- Some, though not all of the paths, in the arboretum are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The drive to Trsteno Arboretum, situated about 12 miles (19 kilometers) from Dubrovnik, follows a scenic coastal road and should take about 25 minutes. Bus numbers 12, 15, 21, 22, and 35 all depart from Dubrovnik bus station.
When to Get There
Trsteno Arboretum is busiest in summer. Yet, even in the peak months of July and August, the gardens are calm and quiet when compared to bustling Dubrovnik. They are open year-round and are especially pretty in autumn, when the fall colors set in.
Highlights of the Arboretum
Among the most striking—and unmissable—plants at Trsteno are the pair of 500-year-old plane trees near the entrance. These two leafy giants tower to a height of more than 195 feet (60 meters). Within the garden itself, you’ll find a hedge maze to puzzle your way out of, as well as exotic palms and ponds filled with fish, frogs, and lilies.
Address: Potok 20, Trsteno, Dalmatia 20233 , Croatia
Admission: Varies
From $ 67
Triumphal Arch
Ranking among France’s most impressive Roman monuments, the grand Triumphal Arch of Orange forms the centerpiece of the ancient city, standing alongside the equally magnificent Roman Theatre. Part of the Orange UNESCO World Heritage site, the arch was built on the Via Agrippa trade road, between A.D. 10 and 25, and dedicated to Emperor Tiberius in celebration of his Rhineland victories.
The grand monument towers over 20-meters high and is renowned for its elaborate reliefs and triple arches. Painstakingly restored in 2009, the arch now serves not only as one of Orange’s most popular tourist attractions and navigational landmarks, but as one of the oldest and largest monuments of its kind from the Gallo-Roman period.
Practical Info
The Triumphal Arch is located close to the Roman Theatre in Orange.
Address: Avenue de l'Arc de Triomphe, Orange 84100, France
From $ 79
Troodos Mountains
Soaring almost 2,000 meters above sea level and covering much of southern Cyprus, the Troodos mountains range is one of the island’s most idyllic spots and, thanks to the its cooler climate, a hotspot for outdoor activities. A network of hiking, cycling and climbing trails crisscross the mountains, set against a photogenic backdrop of pine forests and lush alpine landscapes, blooming with wildflowers throughout the summer months. Climbing the 1,950-meter summit of Mount Olympus, Cyprus’ highest peak is another popular pastime and it’s even possible to ski in the mountains during January and February.
The Troodos Mountains region is also famous for its traditional villages and the historic old town of Kakopetria, the wine-making villages of Platres and Omodos and the charming village of Pedhoulas, renowned for its cherries and exquisite Church of Archangel Michael, are all worth exploring. Additional highlights of the area include the sacred 12th century Monastery of Kykkos, perched on a mountaintop near the Marathasa valley, and the UNESCO-listed Painted Churches of Troodos, a collection of 10 richly decorated churches and monasteries dating back to the Byzantine era.
The Troodos Mountains region is also famous for its traditional villages and the historic old town of Kakopetria, the wine-making villages of Platres and Omodos and the charming village of Pedhoulas, renowned for its cherries and exquisite Church of Archangel Michael, are all worth exploring. Additional highlights of the area include the sacred 12th century Monastery of Kykkos, perched on a mountaintop near the Marathasa valley, and the UNESCO-listed Painted Churches of Troodos, a collection of 10 richly decorated churches and monasteries dating back to the Byzantine era.
Address: Troodos Mountains, Limassol, Cyprus
From $ 42
Tsari Mali Grad
The discovery of Tsari Mali Grad (which translates into English as ‘Tsar’s Little Town’) was made in 2007 near the village of Belchin, which is known in Bulgaria for its many therapeutic mineral springs. Dating from Roman times, the Tsari Mali Grad complex had laid forgotten underneath a forested area until it gradually reemerged from the ground on St Spas Hill above the village, when its awesome size and historical significance was appreciated.
At the center of the 10-acre archaeological site lay a vast Roman fort dating back to the rule of Emperor Valens between 364 and 378 AD; it had six watchtowers and walls that were over 400 meters (1,312 feet) in length. Over time, the fort expanded into a fortified town occupied between the fourth and seventh centuries by Thracian, Roman and Byzantine communities; there is also evidence of Thracian shrines, early Christian sanctuaries and the remains of a 15th-century church dedicated to the Ascension of Mary, indicating that the area was of special religious importance. The fort and the church have been painstakingly rebuilt and were opened to visitors in 2013; they are surrounded by spectacular hilly countryside covered in walking trails and can be reached by funicular or 20-minute walk uphill from Belchin.
Practical Info
Selo Belchin, 2025 Samokov. Open Tue–Sun 9am–5pm. Admission: adults 4 leva, children aged between seven–18 2 leva. Found 53 km (33 miles) south of Sofia, Tsari Mali Grad is best accessed by car along Routes 181 and 82.
Address: Selo Belchin, Samokov 2025, Bulgaria
Hours: Tue–Sun 9am–5pm
Admission: Adults: 4 leva; Children: 2 leva
From $ 70
Tsaghkadzor Ropeway
Tsaghkadzor is a popular resort town in the center of Armenia, about an hour outside of the capital of Yerevan. Founded in the 3rd century, Tsaghkadzor derives its name from the Armenian word for “valley of flowers.” Located on the southeastern slope of Mount Teghenis, Tsaghkadzor developed as a major spa town during Soviet times and was home to the Olympic Sports Complex, opened in 1967 to train Soviet athletes for the Olympic Games. After Armenia gained its independence in the 1990s, it was redeveloped into a winter resort town centered around its ski resort.
Tsaghkadzor’s ski resort was fully modernized in the mid-2000s and features a series of four chair lifts known as the Tsaghkadzor Ropeway that take skiers and snowboarders to the top of Mount Teghenis in 40 minutes.
Beyond the resort, Tsaghkadzor is home to the Senator Royale Casino, one of the largest entertainment complexes in the country, as well as the Kecharis Monastery, one of the most important religious sites in Eastern Armenia. Founded in the early 11th century, it was reconstructed in 2001. Visitors may also enjoy the House-Museum of the Brothers Orbeli, a museum dedicated to Ruben, Joseph and Levon Orbeli, three prominent Armenian scientists.
Practical Info
Tsaghkadzor is located about 50 kilometers northeast of the capital of Yerevan, off the M4 highway that leads to Lake Sevan. Driving or hiring a car or share taxi is the best way to get there from Yerevan.
Address: Tsaghkadzor, Armenia
Hours: Ski season typically runs from December to mid-March.
From $ 20
Trocad ero
Across the river from the Eiffel Tower, the grand Trocadéro is one of Paris’ most visited areas—an expanse of manicured gardens and monumental walkways set around the Place du Trocadéro and crowned by the Palais de Chaillot. It offers one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
The Basics
You can stroll through the Trocadéro Gardens on a Paris walking tour, explore independently as part of a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or pass the waterfront gardens on a Seine River cruise. Many Paris city tours include a photo stop at the square, which offers excellent views of the Eiffel Tower and the Champ de Mars; but for panoramic views of the Trocadéro itself, combine your tour with a skip-the-line Eiffel Tower ticket and admire the magnificent gardens from above.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available around the Trocadéro.
- The Trocadéro Gardens are open 24-7 and there is no admission fee.
- The Trocadéro and its museums are mostly wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Trocadéro is located in Paris’ 16th arrondissement, on the right bank of the River Seine. Situated directly opposite the Eiffel Tower, it’s a short walk from the Champ de Mars on the left bank over the Pont d’Iéna to the Trocadéro Gardens. The closest metro station is Trocadéro on Lines 6 and 9.
When to Get There
The Trocadéro is one of the busiest locations in Paris—an early morning or late-night stop is the only chance you’ll have to enjoy a crowd-free visit, especially in peak season. While splashing around in the fountains is a popular way to cool off in summer, visiting in the evening means you can enjoy city’s lights. Another atmospheric time to visit is during the holidays, when the Place du Trocadéro hosts a Christmas market and open-air ice rink.
Museums of the Trocadéro
The magnificent Palais de Chaillot is home to the Théâtre National de Chaillot, as well as the Musée de l'Homme anthropology museum and the Musée National de la Marine maritime museum. Other museums located within a short stroll of the Trocadéro include the Musée National des Arts Asiatiques–Guimet, which displays an exquisite collection of Asian art; its Galeries du Panthéon Bouddhique, which houses the personal collection of Emile Guimet; and the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, where the permanent collection includes works by Matisse and Delaunay.
Address: Place du Trocadero, Paris 75116, France
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Troy
It’s true, you need a fairly active imagination to people the ruins of Troy and bring this legendary site to life. But of the many names from history books and epic cinema, the legend of Troy is one that truly resonates.
Before being overcome by invasion and earthquake, the fabled city of Troy ruled from around 3,000 BC to 1,000 BC. Today, it is an area of archaeological excavations and ruins.
A stately model of the famous wooden horse of Troy guards the ruins, a replica of the vehicle that brought the invading Greeks inside the walls of Troy. You can climb inside the horse for elevated views of the ruins.
The Excavations House provides several models of Troy over the millennia, to give an idea of the city’s former glory and layout. A circular path leads amongst the ruins with signboards to help explain the various walls, fortifications, temples and remains of houses.
Before being overcome by invasion and earthquake, the fabled city of Troy ruled from around 3,000 BC to 1,000 BC. Today, it is an area of archaeological excavations and ruins.
A stately model of the famous wooden horse of Troy guards the ruins, a replica of the vehicle that brought the invading Greeks inside the walls of Troy. You can climb inside the horse for elevated views of the ruins.
The Excavations House provides several models of Troy over the millennia, to give an idea of the city’s former glory and layout. A circular path leads amongst the ruins with signboards to help explain the various walls, fortifications, temples and remains of houses.
Address: Hisarlik, Turkey
From $ 227
Turia Riverbed Gardens
Just beyond the borders of Valencia’s old town, bridges cross over a river’s canal. But you won’t find water flowing below those bridges – not anymore, that is -- and instead the Turia Riverbed Gardens.
Indeed, until 1957, the River Turia gushed through Valencia. But then a devastating flood prompted citizens to shift the river’s course, diverting the waterway just west of the city. Though this several-kilometer long swath of land was at one time destined for use as a motorway, it was ultimately turned into a garden, making it Spain’s largest urban getaway, and Valencia’s beloved green haven.
Along its meandering course, you’ll find all sorts of park paradise. There are fountains and ponds, cafes and climbing walls, and loads of paths for walkers, runners and bikers. Kids will find their bliss at Gulliver Park, a giant playground inspired by its namesake children’s tale. Along the way, centuries-old bridges cross over the slithering greenery, just as they did when this channel filled with water.
Perhaps the most famous of the Turia Riverbed Gardens’ sites is the City of Arts and Sciences, which sits at the eastern end of the park, near where the original river arrived at the Mediterranean Sea. Here’s where you’ll come upon a complex featuring a collection of buildings with futuristic architecture, and serving both educational and entertainment purposes. Among them are Europe’s largest Aquarium, and L'Hemisfèric, home to a planetarium, laserium and IMAX theater.
Practical Info
The Turia Riverbed Gardens can be easily reached from Valencia’s ciutat vella, or old town, by simply heading east until you hit the former waterway. If, however, you aren’t within walk distance, the park has two MetroValencia stops: Turia and Alameda.
Address: Valencia, Spain
From $ 29
Trinity Lavra of St Sergius
Located in the town of Sergiev Posad, the Trinity Lavra of St Sergius is the most important monastery in Russia and the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church. Founded in 1345, the monastery originally centered on a wooden church surrounded by several buildings and became the model for more than 400 similar cloisters throughout Russia. After the first church burned down, a stone cathedral was built, dedicated to the Holy Trinity.
It still stands today, housing relics of St Sergius and works by some of the greatest iconic painters in Russia. Over the centuries, additional buildings were added to the monastery complex, including the Church of the Holy Spirit, the Assumption Cathedral, the Church of John the Baptist’s Nativity, a royal palace and a patriarch’s palace. Once the richest monastery in Russia, it was closed after the Russian Revolution and many relics were lost or destroyed. It was returned to the Russian Orthodox Church in 1945 and was restored throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The monastery was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993.
Practical Info
To visit, take a train from Moscow’s Yaroslavsky train station to Sergiev Posad. Trains leave every 30 minutes throughout the day and the journey takes about an hour and a half. From the train station in Sergiev Posad, the monastery is about a 10-minute walk away. The grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., but the churches are not open to the public on the weekends. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Address: Sergiev Posad, Moskovskaya, Russia
Hours: Grounds: Daily 8am-6pm; Churches: closed weekends; Museum: closed Mondays
From $ 57
Tsitsernakaberd (Armenian Genocide Museum)
This expansive complex, which was completed I 1967, was built to honor the 1.5 million Armenians killed by genocide during the 20th century. Today, this hillside memorial serves as a destination for pilgrims who want to pay homage to the fallen.
Upon entering Tsisernakaberd, visitors are confronted with a massive stone engraved with the names of cities across Armenia and the number of people who were killed by the Turks in each one. It proves a somber reminder of the nation’s loss and ushers travelers into the three buildings the complex holds: the Sanctuary of Eternity, Memorial Wall and Memorial Column. Visitors say this museum and landmark is a stark but beautiful reminder of the nation’s history and worthy of checking out.
Practical Info
The museum and landmark is open 24-hours a day and located on Yerevan’s Tsitsernakaberd hill.
Address: Yerevan, Armenia
Hours: Open Tues-Sun 11am-4pm
From $ 20
Turda Salt Mine (Salina Turda)
Rarely does a mineral mine top the list of national attractions, but thanks to well-preserved machinery and spa-like features, the Turda Salt Mine has become a major destination for travelers to Romania. Visitors can venture into the mine’s depths and learn about the rich history of extraction that has kept a community afloat, then travel to Durgau Lakes, which formed mineralized salt on old mining sites. This picturesque spot offers visitors the perfect place to sunbathe, unwind and enjoy scenic Romanian landscapes.
Turda Salt Mine is also home to an impressive (and unexpected) spa complete with fitness center, Jacuzzi and saunas. The didactical swimming pool provides an alternative to the Durgau Lakes for visitors who prefer to log laps indoors. Travelers can also catch one of the popular shows at the amphitheater located on site, ride the massive Big Wheel Ferris wheel for spectacular views, or hop aboard one of the Turda Salt Mine boats for a memorable underground lake tour.
Practical Info
The salt mine is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and costs 15 lei for adults and 8 lei for children. English, French, German and Hungarian speaking guides are available for groups of 20 or more upon request.
Address: Strada Frăgărişte, Turda, Romania
Hours: Open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Admission: Adults: 15 lei
From $ 44