Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Antrim Coastal Drive
The Antrim Coastal Drive winds along a 25-mile (40-kilometer) stretch and provides scenic views from Belfast to Derry. Discover landmarks including the Mourne Mountains, Glens of Antrim, and Giant’s Causeway on one of the UK’s most picturesque routes, and explore the towns, harbors, and beaches along the way for insight into local life.
The Basics
Designed by William Bard in the 1800s, the route was intended to improve access for trade; today it continues to provide easy transfer between the region’s popular landmarks. Many tours offering round-trip itineraries from Dublin or Belfast will visit this scenic stretch and its key sites. Combine with a visit to the legendary Giant’s Causeway, or opt for a tour that focuses on the many Game of Thrones filming locations along the way.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The road itself isn’t suited to walking excursions, though there are plenty of opportunities to park and explore each individual landmark on foot.
- Most of the attractions are outdoors and unsheltered, so don’t forget an umbrella and raincoat.
- This is a must do for outdoors enthusiasts, photographers, and first-time sightseers in Northern Ireland.
How to Get There
The route, a section of the A2 between Belfast and Derry, passes through a number of towns. Visitors can opt to rent a car, hire a driver, or relax while taking in the scenic views on a group tour.
When to Get There
The route has its charms all year. In summer, the flora and fauna put on a dazzling show; in fall and winter, the crashing waves and darkening skies bring a photogenic moodiness to the dramatic coastline.
Discover Rathlin Island
Wildlife lovers with more time in the region may enjoy a visit to Rathlin Island, just off the coast. In summer, the island is home to a wide array of birds, including puffins, kittiwakes, and guillemots, all easily spotted in a nature reserve. Park up in Church Bay, then take a ferry over, keeping an eye out for native dolphins and seals.
Address: Belfast, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland
From $ 26
Constantine Column
When Constantine established his new capital of the Roman Empire, he commissioned a grand circular forum with a monumental column at its center. Carved from red porphyry stone, the 115-foot (35-meter) column was topped with a golden statue of Apollo bearing Constantine's face.
A storm toppled the statue in 1106, and a fire in 1779 damaged the base (earning it the nickname 'Burnt Stone'). Periodic restoration work has reinforced cracks in the marble, and in 2003, the column underwent a more thorough restoration, though the statue on top has never been replaced. Visitors can see the historic Constantine Column near the Çemberlitas metro station in Istanbul, where city tours often pass by.
Practical Info
Look for the column upon exiting the Çemberlitas metro station or tram stop.
Address: Yeniçeriler Cad. and Vezirhan Cad., Istanbul, Turkey
From $ 57
Brabo Fountain
In pole position at the heart of Antwerp’s lovely, medieval Grote Markt, the Brabo Fountain stands in front of the ornate, pennant‐encrusted Stadhuis (Town Hall) and was created in 1887 by the renowned Flemish sculptor Jef Lambeaux. The flamboyant Baroque statue represents a legend concerning the origins of the city: more than 2,000 years ago Antwerp was a small settlement in the Roman Empire when a Russian ‘giant’ called Druon Antigoon settled on the banks of the River Scheldt and charged ships to sail up the river; if sailors refused to pay the toll, Druon Antigoon cut their hands off in revenge. A Roman soldier named Silvius Brabo – rumored to be a relative of Julius Caesar – refused to pay and subsequently killed the giant in a duel, cutting off his hand and throwing it into the Scheldt. The hand became a symbol of Antwerp’s freedom and still features on the city’s coat of arms; the bronze Brabo Fountain features Silvius Brabo atop a pedestal awash with mythical sea monster, his body twisted in the act of throwing the hand into the river.
Practical Info
Grote Markt. Accessible on foot and 24 hours a day.
Address: Grote Markt, Antwerp, Flanders 2000, Belgium
From $ 15
Constitution Square (Plaza de la Constitucion)
Malaga’s largest and most iconic public square, the Plaza de la Constitution holds significance in both the city’s past and present. Serving as a public space since the 15th century, it remains an important center of Malaga daily life today. Palm trees sit beside historic Spanish architecture surrounding the fountain Fuente de Génova. Lined with alleyways full of small shops and cafes, it is a largely pedestrian area that’s great for exploring the city’s history.
The square was home to Malaga’s city hall until the 19th century, having since been renamed from Plaza de Cuatro Calles (four streets) and the Plaza Mayor. Once the home of festivals, celebrations, and even bullfights, it is now a central meeting spot for residents of the city. Cultural, political, and religious events still take place here throughout the year, including the impressive Semana Santa processions and festivities.
It is considered to be the heart of Malaga’s historical quarter and a must-see while in the city.
Practical Info
Located in the center of Malaga, the square can be approached via the historic Calle Larios. It is open all hours of the day and best explored on foot.
Address: Plaza de la Constitucion, Malaga, Andalucia, Spain
Hours: 24/7
From $ 17
Coniston Water
The third-largest lake in the English Lake District doesn’t fail to impress; at 5 miles (8 km) long, 184 feet (56 m) deep and half a mile (0.8 km) wide, it has been a favorite of kayak and canoe aficionados for several decades now and continues to entice visitors seeking stunning scenery and a feel for the much-hyped Lake District. Once the main fish source for the monks of Furness Abbey in the 13th century, it is now the home of the elegant, Victorian-era steam yacht Gondola, which sails from one end of the lake to the other between March and November.
Around the lake, there are three main villages, Coniston, Brantwood and Hawkshead, where visitors can sleep, eat, drink and shop as they please. Hawkshead is particularly lovely and easy to explore on foot, featuring charming cobble lanes and the fan-favorite Beatrix Potter Gallery.
Coniston Water has been depicted several times in fiction, with its most famous mention in Arthur Ransome’s novel Swallows and Amazons. The lake also received major international and local press during the 20th century because of the role it played in many water-speed world-record attempts. The record was finally set on August 19, 1939, by Sir Malcom Campbell. His son, Donald, subsequently tried to achieve the mind-boggling 300-miles-per-hour record in 1967 but was tragically killed on the second leg of his attempt. The Ruskin Museum in Brantwood features a complete exhibition on the event.
Bicycles; motor, sailing and rowing boats; canoes; and kayaks are available for hire at Coniston Boating Centre. Trekking is also a popular activity among visitors, as the lake is surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery, including the famed Old Man of Coniston.
Practical Info
Coniston Water is located in the south of Lake District National Park and can be reached from Liverpool and Manchester by car in two hours via the M6, the A590 and the A592.
Address: Lake District, England
From $ 62
Antwerp
Antwerp is the coolest city in Belgium, popular with fashionistas, clubbers, art lovers and diamond dealers. It’s also one of the largest ports in Europe. Despite having its roots in Gallo-Roman times of the 2nd century, the city today is quite modern thanks to extensive bombing during the Second World War. But some gems of history remain.
The 16th century guildhouses at the Grote Markt (Market Square) lean wonderfully into each other for support, vying for attention with City Hall. The Gothic Cathedral of our Lady still has the highest spire in the Low Countries (400 ft/123m), plus several radiantly beautiful triptychs by Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens.
You can visit the wonderfully restored house and studio of Rubens and he is buried in the ornate Gothic St James’ Church. If you like art, the Royal Museum Antwerp has a great collection, including famous 17th century locals, Rubens and van Dyck, and the Italian, Titian. And then it’s on to the 20th century.
The recently opened Museum Aan de Stroom (MAS) is a 200-foot (60 m) high pile of Indian red sandstone and glass. As you’d expect the displays inside use the latest technology and its exhibits celebrate Antwerp’s life as a port: Metropolis, Power, Life and Death.
The law courts are similarly eye-catchingly modern with a roof line replicating sails. The Mode Museum (MoMu) celebrates the local fashion industry that Antwerp is increasingly known for along with its excellent beers and chocolates. Antwerpse Handjes (Antwerp Hands), almond or chocolate biscuits, are a particular city pride. Even tastier are the diamonds: watch them being cut at Diamondland, learn their history at the Diamantmusuem, or just dream about buying them along the well-guarded streets Pelikaanstraat, Vestingstraat or Hoveniersstraat.
The 16th century guildhouses at the Grote Markt (Market Square) lean wonderfully into each other for support, vying for attention with City Hall. The Gothic Cathedral of our Lady still has the highest spire in the Low Countries (400 ft/123m), plus several radiantly beautiful triptychs by Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens.
You can visit the wonderfully restored house and studio of Rubens and he is buried in the ornate Gothic St James’ Church. If you like art, the Royal Museum Antwerp has a great collection, including famous 17th century locals, Rubens and van Dyck, and the Italian, Titian. And then it’s on to the 20th century.
The recently opened Museum Aan de Stroom (MAS) is a 200-foot (60 m) high pile of Indian red sandstone and glass. As you’d expect the displays inside use the latest technology and its exhibits celebrate Antwerp’s life as a port: Metropolis, Power, Life and Death.
The law courts are similarly eye-catchingly modern with a roof line replicating sails. The Mode Museum (MoMu) celebrates the local fashion industry that Antwerp is increasingly known for along with its excellent beers and chocolates. Antwerpse Handjes (Antwerp Hands), almond or chocolate biscuits, are a particular city pride. Even tastier are the diamonds: watch them being cut at Diamondland, learn their history at the Diamantmusuem, or just dream about buying them along the well-guarded streets Pelikaanstraat, Vestingstraat or Hoveniersstraat.
Address: Belgium
From $ 23
Copenhagen Opera House
Since opening its doors in 2005, the Copenhagen Opera House has quickly secured its place as one of the capital’s most iconic buildings, with its futuristic roof canopy looming over the waterfront of Copenhagen harbor. The award-winning design, which spans 41,000 square meters and 14 stories, was created by local architect Henning Larsen and features equally captivating interiors, including a striking marble foyer and a gold-plated auditorium roof, shimmering with 24-carat gold leaf.
The opulent surroundings are the home stage of the Royal Danish Opera but the Opera House’s varied schedule includes everything from classical, ballet and opera performances to jazz concerts, held on the 1,500 seat main stage, alongside a roster of experimental works held on the smaller Takkelloftet stage. The principal opera season runs from mid-August until June, when guided tours of the impressive building are also available.
Address: Ekvipagemestervej 10, Copenhagen, Denmark
From $ 13
Concertgebouw
Whether you’re hoping to hear some of the finest renditions of classical music in Amsterdam or simply marvel at a modern architectural wonder, the city’s famous Concertgebouw is sure to satisfy all your senses.
Designed by architect Adolf Leonard van Gendt, the 19th-century building, located right in front of the Rijksmuseum, was inspired by the famous 18th-century Gewandhaus concert hall in Leipzig. Fashioned mostly in a Dutch Neo-Renaissance style, the impressive building includes a classic monumental facade and a gilded lyre atop its roof. Today, the concert hall is the home of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and is renowned for both its outstanding acoustics and propensity for diversity – Led Zeppelin, The Who and Pink Floyd all performed there in the ‘60s, and Jazz and World musicians continue to take the stage, as well as Classical orchestras.
To fully experience the Concertgebouw’s spectacular interiors and acoustic prowess, attend one of the 445 annual concerts held in the main hall, or better still, couple your evening entertainment with a Theatre Tour where you can learn more about the intricate architecture before soaking up the atmosphere of a live performance. Those on a budget can get a taster of events to come by attending the free 30-minute rehearsal slots held at midday, each Wednesday between September and June.
Designed by architect Adolf Leonard van Gendt, the 19th-century building, located right in front of the Rijksmuseum, was inspired by the famous 18th-century Gewandhaus concert hall in Leipzig. Fashioned mostly in a Dutch Neo-Renaissance style, the impressive building includes a classic monumental facade and a gilded lyre atop its roof. Today, the concert hall is the home of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and is renowned for both its outstanding acoustics and propensity for diversity – Led Zeppelin, The Who and Pink Floyd all performed there in the ‘60s, and Jazz and World musicians continue to take the stage, as well as Classical orchestras.
To fully experience the Concertgebouw’s spectacular interiors and acoustic prowess, attend one of the 445 annual concerts held in the main hall, or better still, couple your evening entertainment with a Theatre Tour where you can learn more about the intricate architecture before soaking up the atmosphere of a live performance. Those on a budget can get a taster of events to come by attending the free 30-minute rehearsal slots held at midday, each Wednesday between September and June.
Address: Concertgebouwplein 2-6, Amsterdam 1071 LN, Netherlands
From $ 12
Antwerp Zoo (Dierentuin)
Occupying a 26-acre (10.5-hectare) site behind the city’s grandiose railway station, Antwerp Zoo was built in 1843 – when it was outside the city walls – in colorful Art Nouveau style; as well as being one of the oldest zoos in the world, it must be the only one where the elephants are housed in an Egyptian temple swathed in hieroglyphics.
Currently the zoo has more than 5,000 animals of around 950 species; family favorites such as lions, tigers, polar bears, zebras and gorillas, are housed among the spacious and colonnaded enclosures, themed habitats, Arctic pools, aquariums, reptile house, aviaries, winter gardens and petting zoo for toddlers. There are daily talks plus penguin and sea lion shows; elephant, seal and hippo feeding sessions; 3-D movies in the Planetarium; and plenty of eating options for families, from waffle stands to brasserie dining.
Despite its early foundation, this is one of the more forward-thinking of European zoos, running successful conservation and breeding programs and looking to run sustainably on its own resources. Recent breeding successes have included rare Malayan tapirs, endangered okapi and Eurasian black vultures, while fresh additions at the zoo are the spectacular Reef Aquarium and the restored Flemish Garden, where two cute koala bears have taken up residence as part of an international breeding initiative. A new Savannah habitat is also being planned.
Pratical Info
Koningin Astridplein 20-26. Open daily 10am–5.30pm (4.45pm in winter); admission adults €22.50; seniors, students and children aged 3–17 €12.50. Combination tickets can be bought with Aquatopia. The zoo is close to Central Station and easily accessed on foot from the city center; several buses and trams also stop close by.
Address: Koningin Astridplein 20-26, Antwerp, Flanders 2018, Belgium
Hours: Daily 10am–5.30pm (4.45pm in winter)
Admission: €22.50; seniors, students and children aged 3–17 €12.50
From $ 15
Bozburun Peninsula
Jutting out to the south of the Datça Peninsula between the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, the Bozburun Peninsula makes for a popular cruise destination from Bodrum or Fethiye. It is as renowned for its tranquil beaches as its atmospheric nightlife, and many choose to explore the length of the peninsula by jeep or boat from Marmaris.
The long, sandy beaches are the principal draw for visitors to the Bozburun Peninsula, with top spots including the Blue Flag beach of Turunc, Icmeler Beach and the vast Maiden’s Beach or Kizkumu. Additional highlights include the peninsula’s namesake town, known for its production of traditional wooden gülets; Turgut Falls; the hilltop village of Bayir; and the forest-clad mountains, where bird-watchers can spot Eurasian varieties like the jay and hoopoe.
Practical Info
The Bozburun Peninsula lies on Turkey’s southwest coast.
Address: Marmaris, Turkey
From $ 13
Commerce Square (Praça do Com ercio)
Still known locally as Terreiro do Paço (Palace Square) thanks to its being the former location of Lisbon’s Royal Palace until its destruction in the great earthquake of 1755, Praça do Comércio was completely rebuilt in the late 18th century and is today an elegant square hugging the banks of the River Tagus.
Thanks to the vision of Portuguese architect Eugénio dos Santos, this vast square was built in a sweeping ‘U’ shape and is full of ornate arches and overblown civic buildings. It is dominated by a massive equestrian statue of King Jose I, while sights around the square include Lisbon’s historic Café Martinho da Arcada, dating right back to 1782 and famous for its coffees, pastries and ports. Lisbon’s main tourist information office is on the north side of the arcaded square, which is largely lined with outdoor restaurants. Along the riverbanks great marble steps lead down to the Tagus and historically formed the main entry to the city.
The Praça do Comércio is close to other downtown Lisbon attractions, including the city’s main public piazza, Rossio Square, and its main shopping street, Rua Augusta, which is entered through a triumphal arch adorned with statues of Portuguese heroes including explorer Vasco da Gama.
Practical Info
Located in Baixa (downtown Lisbon), Commerce Square can be reached by taking the metro to Terreiro do Paço.
Address: Avenida Infante Dom Henrique, Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 6
Cong
Set between the lakes of Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, the idyllic village of Cong is known for its pretty, thatched-roof cottages and its starring role in the Oscar-winning movie, The Quiet Man, where it was upstaged only by the lead actor — John Wayne.
Covering 350 acres, Ashford Castle and its grounds are also a popular visit while in Cong. The old country estate of the Guinness family, today it’s one of Ireland’s finest 5-star hotels that’s hosted everyone from Brad Pitt to Princess Grace of Monaco.
Surrounded by forests, streams, and lakes, Cong sits on the border of County Galway and County Mayo. While in the village, a popular attraction is the ruins of Cong Abbey. Dating back to the 13th century, the abbey is the burial site of the last High King of Ireland, Rory O’Connor, and a National Monument of Ireland that’s said to feature some of the country’s finest medieval ecclesiastic architecture.
Cong is also where Celtic art originated. The original Cross of Cong can be seen at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin. Kayaking trips along the Cong river are a favorite among visitors, as are boat trips across Lough Corrib — the biggest lake in Ireland, and movie fans can visit the village’s The Quiet Man Museum, which is dedicated to the 1952 film.
Practical Info
28 miles from Galway City, there are about three buses a day that will take you to Cong. The Quiet Man Museum is open from 10am to 4pm, and entrance costs €5. Admission to Cong Abbey is free, and the ruins are open from dawn til dusk.
Address: Cong, Ireland
From $ 35
Congress Square
Ljubljana’s Congress Square (Kongresni trg) is an historical Baroque piazza uniting some of the city's most beautiful buildings and popular attractions—yet it's best known as a place to relax. Built in 1821 just a street over from the main area of old town, the peaceful square and verdant Park Zvezda (Star Park) that sits in its middle offer locals and visitors a quiet place to eat, read, and soak in views of the city's iconic hilltop castle.
The University of Ljubljana and Slovenian Philharmonic line the southern flank of the square, while the Baroque-designed Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity and popular Kazina are found on the square's north end. Also nearby are excavations of the Roman settlement of Emona.
Though most popular in summer when an open-air cinema plays free movies in the park in August, the square's surrounding Biedermeier-style architecture, convenient cafes, and beautiful scenery make it a major stop on most walking and cycling tours of Ljubljana.
Practical Info
Congress Square, or Kongresni trg, is located in old town Ljubljana. There is no admission fee and it is best accessed on foot, but most bus lines stop in close proximity to the park.
Did You Know? Congress Square plays an important role in the national psyche as it was here that Slovenia’s independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire was celebrated in 1918, and here where the Slovenes gathered to demonstrate for freedom from Yugoslavia in 1991.
Address: Kongresni trg, Ljubljana, Central Slovenia, Slovenia
From $ 20
Conciergerie
With its castle-like turrets and dramatic riverfront location, La Conciergerie is an imposing sight, stretching along the west side of the Île de la Cité. Once part of the Palais de la Cité, along with the neighboring Palais de Justice and Sainte Chapelle, the former medieval palace is best known for its role in the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror, when it served as a prison.
An estimated 3,000 prisoners were held at the Conciergerie prior to being taken to the guillotine during the Reign of Terror, among them Charlotte Corday, Madame Élisabeth, poet André Chénier and Marie Antoinette, and it continued to serve as a prison until it was decommissioned in 1914. Today, La Conciergerie is preserved as a National Monument and visitors can discover its dark legacy on a tour of the grounds, including the Prisoners’ Gallery, Marie-Antoinette’s dungeon, the Great Hall and the 14th-century Tour de l’Horloge, the Conciergerie’s 47-meter high Clock Tower, which displays Paris’ oldest clock.
Practical Info
The Conciergerie is located on Île de la Cité in central Paris, close to Notre Dame Cathedral, and is open daily from 9:30am-6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is €8.50.
Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais - Île de la Cité, Paris, France
Hours: Open daily from 9.30am-6pm
Admission: Adult: €8.50
From $ 10
Constantine Palace
Located in the seaside town of Strelna, the Constantine Palace today forms part of the National Congress Palace complex of St. Petersburg. Strelna was originally chosen by Peter the Great to be the site of his summer residence in 1714, but the palace stood unfinished until the early 19th century. It served as a residence for the Romanov grand dukes until falling into decay after the Russian Revolution. Later, all interior decorations were stripped during the German occupation of St. Petersburg.
In 2001, Vladimir Putin ordered the palace to be renovated and converted into a presidential residence. It hosted more than 50 heads of state during St. Petersburg’s tercentenary celebration in 2003 and recently held the qualifying draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Visitors to the palace today can see exhibitions of Russian painting, decorative and applied arts and the history of Russian glass production from the 1700s. The palace also boasts a thousand masterpieces of Russian art from the 17th to 20th centuries, based on collection of Russian musicians Rostropovich and Vishnevskaya.
Practical Info
Constantine Palace is located in Strelna, about halfway between St Petersburg and Peterhof and can be reached by hydrofoil from St Petersburg in about 25 minutes. It is also possible to get there by tram 36 or 60 from the Avtovo Metro station or marshrutka T-300, T-103 or T-424. The palace is open daily except Wednesdays, from noon until 6:00 p.m. and can be visited only by guided tour.
Address: Berezovaya alleya, 3, Strelna, Russia
From $ 109
Como-Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como-Brunate)
The historic single-track Como–Brunate Funicular Railway has been carrying passengers up and down the steep mountain slope between the lakeside city of Como and the village of Brunate since 1894. The 7-minute ride passes through a scenic stretch of countryside with sweeping views over Italy’s Lake Como as far as the Swiss Alps.
The Basics
Once powered by steam engine, the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como–Brunate) now runs with an electric motor and travels through a lengthy tunnel before emerging to panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding area, including Villa d'Este, Villa Erba, and Monte Rosa. If Brunate, perched 2,362 feet (720 meters) above Como, isn’t high enough for you, after exiting the cable car you can continue another 30 minutes along a rough mule track to San Maurizio and then take 140-plus steps to the top of the Volta lighthouse. Either buy a return ticket for the funicular back down to Como, or take one of the many hiking trails that wind their way down to the lakeshore. Scenic trips on the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway are included in many Como day trips from Milan and as part of small-group hikes from Como.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With views like these, you will definitely want to bring your camera.
- Kids love the dizzying, steep trip up and down the mountainside.
- If you are headed up the mountainside to hike, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring plenty of water.
- The funicular is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Como–Brunate cable car entrance is located at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, about 10 minutes by bus from the railway station through the Como city center. From the bus terminal on Via Torno, it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the funicular. Lake Como (Lago di Como) is a popular day trip from Milan, the bustling capital of Lombardy.
When to Get There
The cable car runs all year, but the best time to visit the region is from late spring to early fall, when the countryside is lush and the high altitude offers a respite from the heat.
Como’s Main Sights
The city of Como sits on the shores of Lake Como and offers a number of interesting attractions. Those not to miss include Piazza Cavour; the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to scientist and inventor Alessandro Volta; and the neoclassical Villa Olmo.
Address: Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, 4, Como CO, Italy
From $ 69
Conwy Castle
In many ways the ideal of a medieval castle, the imposing Conwy Castle was built for Edward I in 1289, during his conquest of Wales. Featuring crenelated towers and soaring defensive walls, it stands on the River Conwy, near the rugged splendor of Snowdonia National Park. Today, Conwy Castle holds UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
The Basics
Conwy Castle is typically included as a stop on coach tours through the British countryside. For those looking to visit independently, its proximity to Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, and Snowdonia National Park makes it a popular stop-off point, whether you plan to travel by car or by train. Joint admission tickets to Conwy Castle and Plas Mawr, an Elizabethan townhouse in Conwy Town, are available to purchase at a discounted rate.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Conwy Castle and Town are surrounded by defensive walls that are classed as some of the finest in Europe, and which can also be explored.
- This UNESCO-listed, 13th-century landmark is the perfect destination for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Views of the sea and the mountains of Snowdonia can be admired from the castle’s battlements.
- While its roof no longer remains, you can still see the castle’s great hall, private chambers, royal chapel, and other interior landmarks.
How to Get There
Guided coach tours offer the simplest form of transit to Conwy Castle. Visitors can also travel by train to Conwy Station, which is located just steps from the landmark. It can also be reached by car via the A55 or B5106.
When to Get There
Conwy Castle is open daily throughout the year, with the exception of December 24, 25, 26, and January 1. Typical visiting hours are between 9:30am and 6pm, with last admission 30 minutes before closing. Conwy Castle also hosts a series of special events for the whole family throughout the year, which feature costumed characters, archery demonstrations, and other medieval-themed entertainment.
North Wales’ Other Remarkable Castles
Conwy isn’t the only castle in North Wales that’s worth your while. If your tour of the castle has inspired you to explore the region’s other medieval highlights, set your sights on nearby Beaumaris Castle, Caernarfon Castle, and Harlech Castle. All hold UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and all were designed by military architect James of St. George, who worked closely with Edward I.
Address: Rose Hill St, Conwy, Wales
Admission: Varies
From $ 1,298
Comporta Beach
Turquoise water, white sand, a long beach framed by mountains…a familiar scene. Yet this beauty of the Portuguese coast remains relatively undiscovered. As a result the beach is often quiet, uncrowded, peaceful and clean. The lands surrounding the area are covered in rice paddies — miles of green until the wide expanse of sand meets the shoreline. There are pine forests, vineyards, and villages nearby as well, with Comporta located in the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve and wetlands.
In total there are more than twelve miles of sand dunes and white sand beaches. The area of Comporta Beach is certified as both accessible and “Blue Flag” for its commitment to upholding environmental standards. The clear turquoise waters often draw comparisons to the Caribbean. Conditions can be good for surfing and windsurfing as well — though you’ll likely have the beach to yourself.
Practical Info
Comporta Beach is located on the Troia Peninsula — an hour south of Lisbon, 12 miles west of the A2 highway. Shaded, free parking is available.
Address: Comporta, Portugal
From $ 81
Connor Pass
Conor Pass is the highest mountain pass in Ireland at 1,345 feet above sea level. It is on the Dingle Peninsula in southwestern Ireland, and it is located along the road that runs from Dingle on the southern end of the peninsula towards Brandon Bay and Castlegregory. The road is narrow and twisting as it weaves its way through steep cliffs. Those driving on Conor Pass will have spectacular views of the glaciated landscapes, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and the coast. It is considered one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Ireland.
Starting from Dingle Town, the road rises 1,500 feet as it approaches the pass. There is a parking lot at the highest point where you can stop and admire the views of the coast. Then as you continue along the road, you will pass Brandon Bay and more cliffs, waterfalls, and lakes. The road also crosses the Brandon Mountains with Ireland's second highest peak, Brandon Mountain at 3,217 feet tall. The road is usually open all year but can be closed during winter months due to weather or if the snow has not been cleared.
Starting from Dingle Town, the road rises 1,500 feet as it approaches the pass. There is a parking lot at the highest point where you can stop and admire the views of the coast. Then as you continue along the road, you will pass Brandon Bay and more cliffs, waterfalls, and lakes. The road also crosses the Brandon Mountains with Ireland's second highest peak, Brandon Mountain at 3,217 feet tall. The road is usually open all year but can be closed during winter months due to weather or if the snow has not been cleared.
Practical Info
Conor Pass can be reached by driving northeast from Dingle Town or by driving southwest from Castlegregory. Length and weight restrictions prohibit certain vehicles, such as campervans and trucks, from using the pass.
Address: South West Ireland, Ireland
From $ 60
Connemara
Wild, beautiful, and sparsely populated, Connemara, extending from Galway to the Atlantic Ocean, is Ireland at its most rugged and elemental. The indented Atlantic coastline is interspersed with beaches and seaside hamlets, while the interior encompasses bog, mountains, lakes, and empty valleys where sheep outnumber people.
The Basics
With knock-your-socks-off beauty and a promise of peace and solitude, the westerly region of Connemara holds great sway among Ireland visitors and locals alike. If you’re into outdoor adventures, take part in guided and self-guided nature walks and hikes around Connemara National Park. Or go sea kayaking around the Wild Atlantic Way coastline, where dolphins, seals, and basking sharks inhabit the waters.
You can also explore the region during sightseeing day tours from Galway, which often incorporate stops at Kylemore Abbey, Pearse’s Cottage, Roundstone, Derrigimlagh Bog, and Killary Fjord, as well as the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Connemara is a must-see for sightseers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as many hiking trails in the region have rocky, uneven surfaces.
- If you plan on spending much time exploring outdoors, bring a rainproof outer layer, water, and sunscreen.
- Gaeltachts (Irish-speaking regions) are scattered throughout Connemara.
How to Get There
Connemara is west of Galway city, with the Atlantic Ocean marking its south and west boundaries. Public transportation is sparse here, so the best way to get around is by car or organized tour, most of which depart from Galway city. Driving from Dublin takes about four hours.
When to Get There
The best time of the year to visit Connemara is between June and October, when mild temperatures make exploring outdoors easier. July and August are the busiest months, so if you plan on visiting then, you may want to hit the most popular spots early in the morning to beat the crowds. In winter, Connemara has a stark, desolate beauty, and tourists are few and far between.
Connemara’s Hollywood Connections
Among the most picturesque villages of Connemara is Leenane, which is set on the edge of Ireland’s only fjord, and was the filming location for The Field, a 1990 film starring Richard Harris. Elsewhere in Connemara, between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, sits the village of Cong, which still retains a collection of traditional thatched cottages. It was here that The Quiet Man was filmed back in 1951.
Address: Connemara, County Galway, Ireland
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