Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Cairns & The Tropical North
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Bloemenmarkt
Taking place daily in the canals of Amsterdam, the Bloemenmarkt is the only floating flower market in the world. Dating back to 1862, traders once would sail directly in to sell their flowers. Today it consists of more than fifteen local florists as well as other small vendors. The boats lining the waterways have the scenic canal houses as a backdrop. Stretching over a block long, the floating barges carrying colorful flowers is a unique sight to behold.
Aside from its multi-colored visuals, the market is also incredibly fragrant. Vendors tend to sell flower bulbs for cultivation, though there are also freshly cut flowers and bouquets. The country’s famous tulips and geraniums are the most common flowers, but indoor plants and greenery are also for sale. Bulbs are a popular gift that can be taken home, and many other traditional Dutch souvenirs are also on display.
The market is mostly visited by locals, but is also a stop on many city tours of Amsterdam both on foot and via the canals.
Practical Info
The Bloemenmarkt can be found on the Singel Canal, between the Koningsplein and the Muntplein. The nearest tram stop is Koningsplein. Seasonally there is also a Christmas market (with trees for sale) in the area.
Address: Singel, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hours: Mon-Sat 9AM–5:30PM, Sun 11AM-5:30PM
From $ 18
Bloody Mary's Restaurant
Bloody Mary's is Bora Bora's most famous restaurant. It is as well known for its food as it is for its colorful history and atmosphere.
The restaurant was founded in 1979 by an eccentric Polish nobleman, the Baron Jerzy Hubert Edward von Dange (George to his friends). It was sold to a Los Angeles businessman in 1985 but the restaurant still maintains what it calls its “old Tahiti style.” The building is a fare tiurai, a traditional hut with a thatched roof and open sides. The kitschy interior features a sand floor (bare foot dining encouraged), tiki torches and polished palm trunks for seats.
Bloody Mary's is open for lunch, dinner and drinks. On the menu is fresh seafood and the daily catch is displayed on ice at the entrance. You will no doubt be encouraged to pair your meal with a fruity island cocktail. Don't forget to check out the open air restrooms which have waterfalls instead of sinks.
The restaurant was founded in 1979 by an eccentric Polish nobleman, the Baron Jerzy Hubert Edward von Dange (George to his friends). It was sold to a Los Angeles businessman in 1985 but the restaurant still maintains what it calls its “old Tahiti style.” The building is a fare tiurai, a traditional hut with a thatched roof and open sides. The kitschy interior features a sand floor (bare foot dining encouraged), tiki torches and polished palm trunks for seats.
Bloody Mary's is open for lunch, dinner and drinks. On the menu is fresh seafood and the daily catch is displayed on ice at the entrance. You will no doubt be encouraged to pair your meal with a fruity island cocktail. Don't forget to check out the open air restrooms which have waterfalls instead of sinks.
(Image courtesy of www.bloodymarys.com)
Address: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Hours: Restaurant: Mon-Wed 11am-3pm; Mon-Sat 6pm-9pm. Bar: Mon-Sat 9:30am-11pm
From $ 226
Blagaj Tekija
A ‘tekija’ is a Muslim Dervish monastery and the one found near the rural settlement of Blagaj near Mostar has probably the most spectacular location of any religious building in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Built between 1446 and 1520 while the country was under Ottoman rule, Blagaj Tekija is tucked in under a sheer, 200-m (656-ft) limestone cliff face overlooking the emerald-green source of the River Buna. It was constructed for a sect of soldier-monks somewhat akin to the Christian Knights Templar called the ‘bektašije’, and is a striking mixture of Bosnian and Oriental architecture, a whitewashed, half-timbered four-story structure leaning over the water’s edge. Today monks from the Naqshbandi order inhabit the monastery and Dervish ceremonies still take place there; the remains of two 15th-century Dervishes are interred under ornately carved wooden roofs and are the subject of Muslim pilgrimages. This lovely spot is backed by spectacular rock formations and a complex of caverns that lead well underground; boat trips make the journey to explore the subterranean passageways. During snowmelt in spring, 43,000 gallons of water per second shoot over the weir in front of the monastery, sending spray high into the air; several open-air restaurants linked by wooden bridges peer over the river from under colorful awnings.
Practical Info
Open daily 8am–10pm; admission 4 KM. Blagaj is seven km (4.5 miles) south of Mostar and best accessed by car along the M6.1 road.
Address: Blagaj bb, Mostar, Mostar municipality 88201, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Hours: Open daily 8am–10pm
Admission: 4 KM
From $ 35
Bled Island
Overview
With its picture-perfect church and ornate steeple peeking out above the treeline and perched on Bled Lake, tiny Bled Island looks like something out of a fairy tale. Local tradition has it that a groom must carry his bride up all 99 steps that lead from the island’s dock to the church to ensure a happy marriage.
The Basics
There is no charge to visit the island, and visitors can arrive via traditional pletna boat or a rented private rowboat. You are free to explore the island’s café, gallery, and souvenir shop; however, an admission fee is required to enter the church. Many tours include transportation to Bled Island, and some include visits to other Bled sights such as dramatic, cliffside Bled Castle or the stunning Vintgar gorge. Adventurous travelers can swim out to the island from the lake’s west shore, although entering the church in a swimsuit is not allowed.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bled Island is a must-see for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts.
- Pletna boats are not wheelchair accessible, and the climb to the church requires that visitors be reasonably fit.
- For the best views of Bled Island, hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint in Bled.
- Be sure to try Bled’s famous cream cake, which can be purchased at the island café.
How to Get There
The most popular way to visit the island is by traditional pletna boat; these depart regularly from several lakeside locations for the 20-minute trip. Another option is to rent a boat and row out to the island yourself. If you’re a strong swimmer, you can easily reach the island from the west shore.
When to Get There
Bled Island is best visited in spring, summer, and fall, but may be visited in the winter if the lake does not freeze over. Summer can be quite busy, so make sure to book a Bled Island tour in advance or get in line early to score a spot on a pletna boat.
Ringing the Bled Island Bell
Legend has it that the church bell was a gift from 16th-century Pope Clement VII himself, presented after the first bell sank to the bottom of the lake. Today, you can climb to the top of the belfry and make a wish. The pope decreed, locals say, that if you ring the bell three times, your wish will come true.
Address: Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
Admission: Varies
From $ 58
Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone
As a 17th century Baroque church facing Piazza Navona, the Church of Sant’Agnese in Agone stands in one of the busiest areas of the in Rome’s historic city center — yet it remains a peaceful sanctuary and renowned Roman church. History tells us that the Early Christian Saint Agnes was martyred on site here in the ancient stadium built by Emperor Domitian. The structure itself was built in 1652 and meant to act as a personal chapel for the family of Pope Innocent X, who lived in the palazzo just beside it. Today it remains a beautiful chapel, known for its frescoed ceilings, many fine sculptures and altars, and impressive marble work. It is also a shrine to Saint Agnes, with her skull still on display to visitors and her body buried in the catacombs. The church’s architecture is characterized by its massive dome, Corinthian columns, and Greek cross plan.
Practical Info
The church is located in Piazza Navona at the heart of Rome, just behind the famous Bernini fountain ‘The Four Rivers.’ It is open during daylight hours daily, but is closed on Mondays. It is free to enter.
Address: Via di Santa Maria dell'Anima, 30/A, Rome 00186, Italy
From $ 21
Blarney Castle
The famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle is officially called the Stone of Eloquence, with a legend that states if you kiss the stone, you will never be at a loss for words. People travel from all over the world to kiss this mystical stone, which can only be done by hanging upside down over a sheer drop from the castle's tower. In addition to the draw of the stone, the 600-year-old fortress also boasts an array of handsome gardens and several interesting rock formations known collectively as Rock Close and given whimsical names such as Wishing Steps and Witch's Cave. Take your turn to kiss the stone, but don't leave the castle without exploring the grounds a bit too.
The Basics
Rail and bus tours that showcase the best of the Irish western and southern coasts—including the Ring of Kerry scenic drive, the Cliffs of Moher, Galway Bay, and the Burren—often includes a stop at Blarney Castle. Find an itinerary to suit your interests, and choose one with a tour guide to learn about the history of the castle and the stone. Make the most of your time with combination tours to other sites such as the Rock of Cashel, the Celtic Cathedral, the Hall of Vicars, the Galtee Mountains, and County Kildare.
The Basics
Rail and bus tours that showcase the best of the Irish western and southern coasts—including the Ring of Kerry scenic drive, the Cliffs of Moher, Galway Bay, and the Burren—often includes a stop at Blarney Castle. Find an itinerary to suit your interests, and choose one with a tour guide to learn about the history of the castle and the stone. Make the most of your time with combination tours to other sites such as the Rock of Cashel, the Celtic Cathedral, the Hall of Vicars, the Galtee Mountains, and County Kildare.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to Blarney Castle
Located only 6 miles (10 km) northwest of the city of Cork, the Blarney Castle and Gardens are easy to reach on a simple afternoon trip from the city. The castle is also often experienced as a stop on a trip from Dublin to Cork, or vice versa. Blarney is 385 miles (620 km) from Dublin.
When to Get There
The castle is open daily from 9am to sunset; as with most popular attractions, it’s best to get there early to beat the crowds. Although chilly, Christmas time is lovely at the castle, which is sumptuously decorated for the season.
Exploring Cork City
A Cork day trip often includes time in the city as well as a visit to Blarney Castle. Stroll down St. Patrick Street and stop for lunch at the English Market, which hosted a visit from Queen Elizabeth II of England in 2011, or do some tax-free souvenir shopping at Blarney Woollen Mill. The Irish countryside throughout County Cork is picturesque and makes for a lovely drive.
- Come prepared with layers for Ireland's famously unpredictable weather.
- Prepare to wait in line if you’d like to kiss the stone.
- Stone kissing is best suited for those who are able-bodied, as the line winds up steep staircases to the castle’s top.
How to Get to Blarney Castle
Located only 6 miles (10 km) northwest of the city of Cork, the Blarney Castle and Gardens are easy to reach on a simple afternoon trip from the city. The castle is also often experienced as a stop on a trip from Dublin to Cork, or vice versa. Blarney is 385 miles (620 km) from Dublin.
When to Get There
The castle is open daily from 9am to sunset; as with most popular attractions, it’s best to get there early to beat the crowds. Although chilly, Christmas time is lovely at the castle, which is sumptuously decorated for the season.
Exploring Cork City
A Cork day trip often includes time in the city as well as a visit to Blarney Castle. Stroll down St. Patrick Street and stop for lunch at the English Market, which hosted a visit from Queen Elizabeth II of England in 2011, or do some tax-free souvenir shopping at Blarney Woollen Mill. The Irish countryside throughout County Cork is picturesque and makes for a lovely drive.
Address: Blarney, County Cork, Ireland
Hours: Daily: 9am–sunset
Admission: Adults: € 10
From $ 58
Church of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk)
The soaring 400-foot (122-meter) spire-topped brick steeple of the Church of Our Lady – the city’s tallest structure – lends itself to commanding views of Bruges. The spire dominates the Bruges skyline and can be seen from all over the city, while from inside the tower, on a clear day, you can see across Belgium as far as the Netherlands.
The church was built over two centuries (13th-15th) and houses a substantial collection of artworks. The most celebrated of the church’s art collection is a white marble sculpture of the Madonna and Child, created by Michaelangelo in the early 16th century – it is one of the very few Michaelangelo pieces that can be seen outside of Italy. The Church of Our Lady also holds an oil painting depiction of the crucifixion by the Flemish Baroque artist Anthony van Dyck, and a rococo pulpit by Bruges artist Jan Antoon Garemijn.
Behind the altar, in the choir space, you will find the twin gilded bronze tomb sculptures of the duke of Burgundy, Charles the Bold and his daughter, Mary of Burgundy. A windowpane underneath the tombs offers a view of the 13th- and 14th-century graves of priests.
The church was built over two centuries (13th-15th) and houses a substantial collection of artworks. The most celebrated of the church’s art collection is a white marble sculpture of the Madonna and Child, created by Michaelangelo in the early 16th century – it is one of the very few Michaelangelo pieces that can be seen outside of Italy. The Church of Our Lady also holds an oil painting depiction of the crucifixion by the Flemish Baroque artist Anthony van Dyck, and a rococo pulpit by Bruges artist Jan Antoon Garemijn.
Behind the altar, in the choir space, you will find the twin gilded bronze tomb sculptures of the duke of Burgundy, Charles the Bold and his daughter, Mary of Burgundy. A windowpane underneath the tombs offers a view of the 13th- and 14th-century graves of priests.
The church is centrally located, close to the Memling Museum, and is open to visitors for limited hours, seven days a week. There is a small fee to enter and see the tombs and artworks.
Address: Mariastraat 8000, Bruges, Belgium
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-12:30pm, 1:30pm-5pm; Sat 9am-12:30pm, 1:30pm-4pm; Sun 1:30pm-4pm
Admission: €2.50 adults, €1.50 children
From $ 21
Blood Compact Monument
A bronze statue on a hilltop fronting the sea commemorates The Sandugo, a traditional tribal trust ceremony shared by regional chief Datu Skiatuna and Captain General Miguel López de Legazpi of Spain shortly after his arrival in Bohol in 1565. The symbolic gesture formed the foundation for lasting peace between the Spaniards and the Island residents.
The statue, near the site of the original ceremony, sits on small raised pedestal and depicts the two men seated in their period regalia and clanking glasses while three Spaniards look on approvingly. The blood compact required both men to create a small incision in their forearms, sprinkle blood in a glass of wine, exchange cups, and drink, thus solidifying the compact.
Practical Info
The monument is located off Tagbilaran East Road in the southern part of Tagbilaran City, just before the bridge to Panglao Island. Tricycles, public buses or jeepneys make the trip from the Integrated Bus Terminal 3 miles (4.5 km) to the north, and the site is included in many tours departing Tagbilaran City. Sunset is a popular time to visit for photos.
Address: Tagbilaran East Road, Tagbilaran City, Philippines
From $ 60
Blenheim Palace
Built in the early 18th century, this stately home is one of Britain’s grandest historical estates. It was gifted by Queen Anne to the Duke of Marlborough, General John Churchill, for his role in defeating the French at the 1704 Battle of Blenheim, and Britain’s beloved wartime leader Sir Winston Churchill was born here in 1874.
The Basics
Visitors can choose between two tickets: One provides access to the park and gardens only, while the other grants access to the park, gardens, and palace. The latter includes guided tours of the Palace State Rooms and access to the Untold Story interactive exhibit, which traces the palace’s long history. The Churchill Exhibition explores the life story of the former English prime minister through photographs, letters, and artifacts and is also included with palace admission.
Audio guides are available for a small extra fee, as are special seasonal tours. Visitors can explore the palace independently or go as part of day tours from London, Oxford, or Bournemouth. Day tours typically combine a visit to Blenheim Palace with trips to nearby Cotswolds villages, such as Bampton, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Blenheim Palace is a must for British history buffs, outdoor lovers, and architecture enthusiasts.
- Four cafés and restaurants can be found on the estate.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at the palace.
- The state rooms are accessible to wheelchair users via a staff-operated elevator, though the Untold Story exhibition, as well as some of the special tours, are not.
How to Get There
Blenheim Palace is situated in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, about a 20-minute drive from Oxford city. To get here, ride the S3 bus from Oxford, or the Oxford Bus Company’s 500 service from Oxford Parkway.
When to Get There
Blenheim Palace is open all year, and tours take place every day except Sunday, when visitors can explore independently and guides are stationed in most rooms to answer questions. Summer weekends are busiest, so come midweek or outside of peak summer season (June, July, and August) to avoid the crowds.
Exploring the Gardens and Grounds
While the palace itself is the main attraction, there is just as much to see in the surrounding gardens and park, portions of which were designed by the famous landscaper Lancelot “Capability” Brown. Ride a minitrain to the Pleasure Gardens, where you’ll find a butterfly house, an adventure playground, and the Marlborough Maze, comprised of thousands of yew hedges. Walking trails around the park lead to other sights, such as the Temple of Diana, where Winston Churchill proposed to his wife, and the Grand Cascade waterfall.
Address: Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1PP, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 62
Church of Santa Maria del Popolo
Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is the most important church in Rome’s sweeping Piazza del Popolo. With a 17th-century facade designed by Bernini, chapels by Bramante and Raphael, and museum-quality art by Pinturicchio and Caravaggio, Santa Maria del Popolo is highlight on any tour of Roman art treasures, architecture, or Catholic sights.
The Basics
Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, one of three churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Piazza del Popolo, was rebuilt in the 15th century over a chapel erected in 1099. Gian Lorenzo Bernini reworked the facade in the 1650s, and stunning frescoes, mosaics, and paintings were added over the centuries to decorate the church and its ornate chapels.
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is a highlight of private and small-group tours focused on Rome’s artistic masterpieces of the 16th and 17th centuries, as it contains works by Raphael, Caravaggio, Carracci, and Bernini. Fans of author Dan Brown can join an Angels and Demons tour that visits Roman sites featured in his bestselling novel. Santa Maria del Popolo, one of Rome’s Augustinian basilicas, is also an important house of worship and included in most tours of the city’s Catholic landmarks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you are visiting the basilica as part of a walking tour.
- Photography without flash is allowed inside the church.
- As in all of Rome’s churches, modest attire that covers shoulders and knees is required to enter.
- The basilica is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo is located on Piazza del Popolo, one of the most important squares in Rome. You can reach the square by taking Metro line A and getting off at the Flaminio stop.
When to Get There
The cool and quiet interior of the church is a welcome respite from the heat and crowds in Piazza del Popolo in the summer, though the church closes for a few hours starting around midday on weekdays and Sundays (open all day Saturday). Tourists are not allowed to enter when Mass is being celebrated, so check the schedule carefully before planning your visit.
Angels and Demons in Rome
Rome was the setting of Dan Brown’s bestselling novel Angels and Demons, published in 2000 and inspired by the secret society known as the Illuminati. The book casts a number of Rome’s most important historic sights as plot points or backdrops for the mystery. Included are the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, the Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Navona, and Castel Sant’Angelo.
Address: Piazza del Popolo, 12, Rome, Province of Rome 00187, Italy
From $ 6
Church of San Luigi dei Francesi
The name “San Luigi dei Francesi” means Saint Louis of the French, and this church is France's national church in Rome.
It was built in the 1500s at the instruction of a Cardinal in the Medici family who would later become Pope Clement VII. Catherine de Medici had married the French king, contributed to the church's construction, and donated the land on which the church was built – further cementing the French connection. The Church of San Luigi dei Francesi occupies the site of a former church, Santa Maria, which was owned by the Medici family. It was begun in 1518 and consecrated in 1589. The interior is
all Baroque ornamentation, so there's no shortage of stuff to see, but the biggest attraction inside is the series of three St. Matthew paintings by Caravaggio. These paintings were commissioned for the church, so it's a great chance to see artwork in its original home rather than an art museum.
Practical Info
San Luigi dei Francesi is located near Piazza Navona and open Friday-Wednesday 10am-12:30pm and 3pm-7pm, Thursdays 10am-12:30pm. The church is free to enter, but you'll want to bring some coins to light up the fabulous Caravaggio paintings.
Address: Via Santa Giovanna d'Arco 5, Rome, Italy
Hours: Fri-Wed 10am-12:30pm, 3pm-7pm;
Thurs 10am-12:30pm
From $ 52
Blair Castle
Reflecting more than 700 years of Scottish history, the 13th century Blair Castle is a must see for anyone visiting Scotland. Spread out over 30 rooms, the castle’s collections provide a broad overview of Scottish life over the centuries. Displays include furniture, artwork, arms and armor, porcelain, embroidery, lace, relics and various family treasures.
Visitors touring the castle learn about the history of the building and its owners, the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. The Picture Staircase is home to the family portrait gallery, while the Tapestry Room features tapestries that once belonged to King Charles I. The 18th century Dining Room showcases local landscape scenes and ceiling plasterwork depicting the four seasons and the Ante Room commemorates the life of the 10th Duke, who gave the castle and grounds in trust to the nation of Scotland. The largest room in the castle, the Ballroom remains unchanged from when it was completed in 1876 and is still used for balls, wedding receptions and private dinners.
The castle grounds are well worth a stroll as well. Laid out in the 18th century, they include a walled garden, a wooded grove, and an adventure playground for children.
Practical Info
To reach Blair Castle, take the train to the Blair Atholl Station and then follow the road running through the village for about half a mile to the castle. Alternatively, Citylink offers bus services from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth and Inverness to Blair Atholl, stopping a half mile from the castle, in front of the Atholl Arms. Another great option is to join a day tour from Edinburgh that includes Blair Castle and several other Scottish highlights.
Address: Blair Atholl, Scotland
Hours: March 25 to October 28, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Admission: 10.70 pounds for house and gardens; 5.90 for gardens only
From $ 16
Blasket Islands
Dingle Peninsula lie a group of abandoned sandstone islands rise out of the Atlantic Ocean. The Blasket Islands (Na Blascaodaí in Irish) have all been occupied at one point or another, but it was the tiny community on the largest island, The Great Blasket, that gained fame for its tradition of folklore and storytelling.
At its peak, the island boasted 175 residents; by the time the Irish government decided the islands were too dangerous for habitation and ordered a mandatory evacuation, there were only 22 people remaining.
Visitors to The Great Blasket find the ruined remains left behind by the island’s former inhabitants. An 8-mile (13-kilometer) walking path takes visitors past some of the island’s most spectacular scenery — sea cliffs and white sand beaches — with the opportunity to spot shorebirds and a colony of seals who now call the islands home.
Practical Info
Boats to the Blasket Islands run between March and September and are weather dependent, so call ahead.
Address: Blasket Islands, Ring of Kerry, Ireland
From $ 45
Blackness Castle
Often referred to as the “ship that never sailed,” Blackness Castle is a 15th century fortress sitting on the south shore of the Firth of Forth, not far from Edinburgh. With a long, narrow shape resembling a ship, the castle has been used as a residence, prison, artillery fortification and fortress over the centuries. Technological innovations were made in the 16th century and a cast iron pier with a gate and drawbridge was added in 1868. When the castle was restored between 1926 and 1935, most of the 19th century additions were removed and the medieval era features of the castle were restored.
Though most of the buildings are empty today, the castle is open to the public as a historic monument. An exhibition provides insight into the history of the castle, including information about the powerful Crichton family, for whom it was built. Visitors can also climb the towers or the curtain wall of the castle for sweeping views of the Firth of Forth; the best views are from the central tower. The castle has also been featured in the “Outlander” television series and is a stop on many “Outlander” themed tours.
Practical Info
To visit Blackness Castle, take a train or bus from Edinburgh to Linlithgow and from there, catch bus 49 to Blackness. The journey should take between an hour and a half to two hours. A narrow road leads from the village of Blackness to the car park just south of the castle. The more adventurous might instead opt to hike from Falkirk, starting at the Carriden Parish Church and following the edge of the River Forth for about two hours.
Address: Blackness, West Lothian EH49 7NH, Scotland
Hours: April 1 to September 20, daily 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; October 1 to March 31, Sunday to Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: 5.50 pounds
From $ 47
Church of Immaculate Conception
The Church of Immaculate Conception is a unique church in Rome, Italy. The church's full name is Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, and it was commissioned in the early 1600s by Pope Urban VIII whose brother was a Capuchin friar. When the church was completed, the monks who moved here took with them the exhumed bodies from their old church. The monks then began transforming bones of these deceased monks, as well as the bones of poor Romans and other deceased, into works of art. The church attracts visitors because of this interesting crypt underneath the church where you can see entire walls covered in bones.
In some places you will also see entire skeletons of monks that were left intact and dressed in Franciscan robes. In other sections of the crypt, you'll see picture frames made of bones, walls covered in skulls, and other elaborate designs. Inside the chapel you will see several works of art including St. Michael the Archangel, Christ Mocked, Transfiguration, Nativity, St. Francis in Meditation, and several paintings of saints. The church also has a small museum.
Practical Info
The Church of Immaculate Conception is located at Via Veneto 27. Opening hours are 9am to 7pm daily except December 25th, January 1st, and Easter Sunday. Admission is 8 euros.
Address: Via Veneto 27, Rome, Italy
Hours: Open 9am to 7pm daily except December 25th, January 1st, and Easter Sunday
Admission: 8 euros
From $ 52
Blackfriars Bridge
Blackfriars Bridge is the busiest of the four bridges located in central London. It crosses the River Thames bringing both road and foot traffic from one side to the other. The bridge has been updated several times, but the current bridge is 923 feet long, 105 feet wide, and has five wrought iron arches. Stone carvings decorate the piers of the bridge. On the east side the carvings show marine life and seabirds, and on the west side the carvings depict freshwater birds. This reflects the tidal turning point in the river. Most river boat tours along the River Thames will sail underneath the Blackfriars Bridge along with Millennium Bridge, Southwark Bridge, and London Bridge.
In 1982 the bridge gained international notoriety when the body of Roberto Calvi, a former chairman of Italy's largest private bank, was found hanging from one of the arches of the bridge. Five bricks were attached to his body, and around $14,000 in three different currencies was found in his pockets. It was concluded that he was murdered by the mafia.
Practical Info
Blackfriars Bridge is located in central London in between Millennium Bridge and Waterloo Bridge. The A201 crosses the bridge, and the closest underground station is the Blackfriars London station.
Address: London, United Kingdom, England
From $ 17
Church of All Nations
The Church of All Nations is a prominent Roman Catholic church perched on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. It is also known as the Basilica of Agony, with its walls golden mosaics depicting the suffering of the world as assumed by Jesus. Tradition has it that Jesus kneeled on a rock here in the Garden on Gethsemane prior to his arrest by the Romans. The slab of rock is now encompassed by a circle of iron thorns.
Historically the site of a Byzantine church, it was converted to a basilica in the 4th century by Crusaders. The present stone structure has domes, walls, and pillars built in Byzantine style although built from 1919 to 1924. Its construction was fueled by donations of Catholic communities from all over the world. Symbols of each nation that donated were built into the glass of the church’s ceiling.
Practical Info
The Church of All Nations is located at the base of the Mount of Olives and is open daily from 8:30 to 11:30 am and 2:30 to 4 pm.
Address: Mount of Olives, Jerusalem, Israel
From $ 35
Bled Castle (Blejski Grad)
Built into a rocky precipice in the Julian Alps foothills of northwest Slovenia, Bled Castle sits high above the stunning blue-green Lake Bled. With moats, a drawbridge, ramparts, towers, and terraces with magnificent views of the lake, this 9th-century fortress is everything you would imagine a medieval fairy-tale castle to be.
The Basics
There is much to see and do at Bled Castle. Tour the castle grounds, learn about Bled’s history in the castle museum and view its extensive collection of medieval armor and weapons, browse the wine cellar and enjoy a tasting, and enjoy incredible panoramas of Lake Bled from the castle terrace.
Entrance to Bled Castle requires an admission ticket, which you can book in advance online or purchase at the gate. You’re welcome to explore Slovenia’s oldest castle on your own or book a guided tour of the castle grounds and museum. To see even more of Lake Bled, combine a Bled Castle tour with a Bled Island trip or Vintgar Gorge tour. Most tours of the region from Bled, Ljubljana, Piran, Zagreb and Pula (Croatia), and Trieste (Italy) visit the castle; some tours also stop at Postojna Cave and other area highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bled Castle is essential for castle and medieval architecture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to the region.
- Book tickets or tours in advance to save time at the gate.
- Reserve a table at the Bled Castle Restaurant and get free admission to the castle.
- Check the castle events schedule and perhaps catch a musical performance or medieval duel reenactment.
- Bled Castle is not easily accessible for wheelchair users or strollers.
How to Get There
Bled Castle is easily reached by car from the town of Bled, and there is parking right outside the castle gate. Many guided tours include transportation by bus or private car. You can also take a taxi from town to the castle or hike one of the scenic pathways that head up from the lake.
When to Get There
Bled Castle is open year-round with extended hours during the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit first thing in the morning or an hour or two before closing time. Bled Castle also hosts special events such as medieval festivals, farmers markets, and music performances.
Dining in the Castle Restaurant
Book a table at the Bled Castle Restaurant and enjoy traditional Slovenian flavors and superb views of Lake Bled from the terrace. With a restaurant reservation, you’ll enjoy free admission to the castle, which you can explore before or after your meal. Dining at the castle restaurant is popular, so book well in advance.
Address: Grajska cesta, Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Church of Our Lady Victorious (Kostel Panny Marie Vítā›zn e)
Found in the Baroque streets of Prague’s Malá Strana (Lesser Town) on the west bank of the Vltava River, the Church of Our Lady Victorious (Kostel Panny Marie Vítězné) has its origins back in 1611. It was rebuilt in its present, richly Baroque style in the 30 years up to 1669 by a Carmelite order of monks and has an interior of dazzling gilt and marble adornment. However, the church’s main claim to fame is its painted wooden statuette of the Infant Jesus of Prague. At about 20 inches (50 cm) in height, it has a highly stylized head topped with cherubic curls and its right hand is raised in blessing. The Infant Jesus is originally from Spain and was donated to the Carmelites by a princess of the noble Lobkowicz dynasty in 1628; he has an rich wardrobe donated by visiting dignitaries as well as two crowns—one a gift studded with pearls and garnets given by Pope Benedict XVI when he visited Prague in 2009—and his outfits are changed at set points in the church year.
The statue’s bejeweled, fur-lined robes and crowns can be seen in the Museum of the Prague Infant Jesus above the church, which is accessible via spiral staircase.
Practical Info
The church is open from Mon–Sat 8:30am–7pm and the museum portion is open Mon–Sat 9:30am–5:30pm, Sun 1pm–6pm. Admission is free. To access, walk over the Charles Bridge from Prague’s medieval Staré Město (Old Town) or take the tram to Malostranké.
Address: Karmelitská 9, Prague 1, Central Bohemia, Czech Republic
Hours: Church Mon–Sat 8:30am–7pm; Museum Mon–Sat 9:30am–5:30pm; Sun 1pm–6pm
From $ 35
Church of San Gin es (Iglesia de San Gin es)
As one of the oldest churches in all of Madrid, the Iglesias de San Gines is full of history and art. It is believed to date back to as early as the 9th century, when it was the site of a Mozarabic community in medieval Madrid. Rebuilt in 1645, its walls feature works from artists such as El Greco, Alonso Cano, and Luca Giordano. Famous Spanish figures such as Lope de la Vega and Francisco de Quevedo were born or baptized here.
Several fires have caused for the church to be reconstructed several times over the centuries. The original campanile, however, remains in tact. From its arched entrance visitors can walk through the many naves and side chapels. The high ceilings, ornate altars, and restored artworks are well taken care of. Though the entire church is worth seeing, many come to see the painting “The Purification of the Temple” as it is considered to be one of El Greco’s finest works.
Practical Info
The church can be found on Calle Arenal, which is a pedestrian street just north of Plaza Mayor. It is in the Los Austrias neighborhood of the city.
Though the church is open daily, the El Greco painting is visible only on Saturdays from 12:30-1pm. The nearest metro stops are Callao and Ópera.
Address: Calle del Arenal 13, Madrid, Spain
Hours: Open 24 hours
From $ 53