Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Sint-Janshospitaal (Saint John's Hospital)
SintJanshospitaal (Old St John's Hospital) is one of the oldest surviving hospital buildings in Europe. The hospital cared for pilgrims, travellers, and the sick for more than 800 years. The old infirmary cared for patients from the 12th century to the middle of the 19th century when the hospital moved to a nearby red brick building, where patients were treated until 1978.
Visitors may tour the chapel and the medieval wards where monks and nuns performed their charitable work, and explore the hospital’s impressive collection of artwork, vintage medical instruments, and archives. Also worth a visit are the pharmacy and its herb garden, the Diksmuide attic, the old dormitory, and the custodian’s room. SintJanshospitaal owns six works by the artist Hans Memling (one of the most important Flemish Primitive painters, who lived and worked in Bruges in the 15th century), as well as many religious sculptures and paintings that depict what life in the hospital was like throughout the centuries. The museum, which is now located in the old infirmary, teaches the curious visitor more about hospital life in the past and how the wards would have looked then.
Practical Info
SintJanshospitaal is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can easily be reached by public transit. The nearest train station is ‘Brugge’ and the nearest bus stop is ‘O.L.V. Kerk, Katelijnestraat ingang O.L.V. Kerk.’ Your museum ticket price includes entry to the hospital’s restored 17th-century pharmacy (Apotheek), which is accessed by a semihidden rear door.
Address: Mariastraat 38, Bruges, Belgium
Admission: €8 adults; €6 seniors older than 65 and adults younger than 26; free for children under 12
From $ 53
Siena Cathedral (Il Duomo)
Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) is one Tuscany’s most beautiful churches, second perhaps only to Florence's Santa Maria del Fiore. The magnificent Gothic and Romanesque structure is hard to miss thanks to its tall spires, bold white-and-green stripes, and ornate facade. Inside, the cathedral is equally impressive with works of art by Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo.
The Basics
Appreciate Siena Cathedral’s wealth of art and architecture on a guided tour. Skip-the-line entrance tickets grant access to the church, crypt, and baptistry (Battistero di San Giovanni), along with the adjacent Piccolomini Library—frescoed by Pinturicchio—and the Museo dell'Opera. Explore the cathedral complex as part of a city walking tour or on a day trip from Florence to Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano. Inside the cathedral, highlights include the marble pulpit and floor, numerous statues, and the Chigi and Saint John the Baptist chapels.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Modest attire is required to enter the church, so be sure to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Walking tours of the cathedral complex and city of Siena cover quite a bit of ground; comfortable shoes are recommended.
- While the cathedral is accessible via a secondary entrance to the left of the main staircase, the museum, crypt, and baptistry are not.
- Photography isn’t allowed inside the complex.
How to Get There
The Cathedral of Siena is on Piazza Duomo in Siena’s pedestrian-only historic center. It can only be reached on foot.
When to Get There
Siena's cathedral has a breathtaking graffito floor, one of the most impressive in Italy. There are 56 marble panels of biblical and historical scenes, most hidden behind a protective covering and revealed for just a few weeks each summer. Try to time your visit for this period to view this masterpiece.
Siena Cathedral History and the Museo dell'Opera
The cathedral’s construction began in the early 1200s, and after almost a century, Giovanni Pisano, whose style was heavily influenced by his father, Nicola, completed the beautiful facade. Despite an impressive cathedral, Siena's ambitious ruling families decided in the 14th century to double the size of the existing structure into the New Cathedral (Duomo Nuovo). The plague stopped the plan, and today Museo dell'Opera occupies the only nave that was completed. Museo dell'Opera holds many of the cathedral's most important works of art, including Giovanni Pisano’s statues of prophets and philosophers that once adorned the facade and Duccio di Buoninsegna's Maesta. Duccio di Buoninsegna designed the huge rose window, and the gable’s glittering Venetian mosaics were added in the 19th century.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Siena, Tuscany 53100, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Sigurta Park (Parco Giardino Sigurta)
Just outside the resort town of Peschiera del Garda on the shores of Lake Garda, the 19th-century English-style Parco Giardino Sigurtà, or Sigurtà Park, is considered among the most beautiful gardens in Europe, with a Great Lawn, large hedgerow maze, Avenue of the Roses, and Water Gardens.
The Basics
Originally the private grounds of the 17th-century Villa Maffei, the garden was created in the early 19th century by the Marquis Maffei, though fell into a state of abandon when the family line ended a century later. The estate was purchased by the Sigurtà family in 1941, who restored the garden to its original glory and expanded it from its original 54 acres (22 hectares) to its current 148 acres (60 hectares). Sigurtà Park is one of the most popular in Italy, so booking tickets ahead is recommended to avoid the line to enter.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park includes a small area with farm animals that visitors are welcome to pet, especially fun for younger kids.
- Visitors can explore on foot by following the free map or app provided at the park entrance, by rental bike or e-bike, by rental GPS-guided golf cart, or aboard the park train or shuttle.
- The park is entirely accessible to visitors with disabilities, including the park train.
- There are a number of snack bars, a gelato stand, and a pizza-by-the-slice shop inside the park.
How to Get to There
Sigurtà Park is just outside the pretty medieval village of Valeggio sul Mincio. From the A4 highway, take the Peschiera del Garda exit and then follow the signs to Valeggio sul Mincio. From the Peschiera del Garda train station, take APAM bus 46 or ATV bus 479.
When to Get There
The best time to come is during Tulip Mania, a few weeks in early spring when the park’s million tulips bloom in profusion. The park is closed from November to March each year.
Seasonal Blooms at Sigurtà Park
Depending upon the month you visit, you can expect to see the park’s famous tulips along with irises, dahlias, roses, lilies, hydrangeas, hibiscus flowers, and a number of aquatic plants like water lilies and lotus flowers.
Address: Via Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 1, Valeggio Sul Mincio, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda)
During the 15th century, Valencia reached the height of its success as one of Europe’s most important mercantile cities. So come the end of that century, it was decided to construct a building where trading could take place. The result was La Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchange), which is one of the finest examples around of civil Gothic architecture and a sight to behold in this Spanish coastal city.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the secular building is composed of four principal areas, the largest of which is the Trading Hall, which occupies roughly half of the entire property. This main room is where the majority of business went down and is no doubt the most impressive given its shiny marble floors, and spiraling columns that bloom into a vaulted ceiling of palm-tree-frond-like arches. Look carefully along the upper perimeter of the room and you’ll even notice golden Latin letters emphasizing the principles of honest trade.
The other main areas of the Silk Exchange are broken out into the Consulate of the Sea, with its intricate gold-gilt ceiling; the orange tree-filled Patio de los Naranjos; and the chapel-based tower, which once served as a prison for those traders who couldn't pay their debts.
Practical Info
The Silk Exchange is open daily, with reduced hours on Sundays and holidays. It is centrally located, just opposite Valencia’s Mercado Central, and only steps away from a bus stop that serves several different lines.
Address: Calle de la Lonja, 2, Valencia 46001, Spain
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.;
Sunday until 3 p.m.
Admission: €1-€2; free on Sunday
From $ 17
Sinaia Monastery
The Sinaia Monastery was built in the mid-1800s and is home to only about 20 monks. Still, the ancient church, ornate gates and dimly glowing candles are all worth a look, and the quiet but well-kept museum located on the grounds houses some impressive artifacts—including the first Bible translated into Romanian. Travelers can wander the grounds, loop through museum galleries and explore the tomb of Tache Lonescu, where quotes from his famous speeches are carved into stonewalls. Travelers say the walk to Sinaia Monastery is beautiful and the grounds are full of history. It’s the perfect addition to a visit to Peles Castle, which is located just up the road.
Practical Info
The monastery is located in Prahova Countyand open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is 4 lei for adults and 2 lei for children. It’s accessible by private car, foot and train.
Address: Strada Mănăstirii 2, Sinaia, Romania
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Admission: Adults: 4 lei; Children: 2 lei
From $ 87
Sintra
Once a hot spot destination for Portuguese royalty—Lord Byron called it a “glorious Eden”—Sintra is widely acclaimed as one of Portugal's most beautiful destinations, full of gardens, tiled villas, colorful palaces, and neo-Gothic structures, all surrounded by verdant hills rolling toward the Atlantic Ocean.
The Basics
Visitors who experience Sintra on a guided tour from Lisbon benefit from a tour guide’s insight and included transportation. Popular attractions within this UNESCO World Heritage Site include the Museum of Modern Art, Monserrate Palace (Palacio de Monserrate), Pena National Palace, Castle of the Moors, and the beautiful Gothic architecture of the Quinta da Regaleira. While it’s possible to spend an entire day (or week) in this captivating town, travelers with limited time can also combine a visit to Sintra with stops at other nearby points of interest, such as Praia Grande, Cascais, Guincho Beach, or the wineries of Colares.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Travelers can dedicate an entire day to the UNESCO-listed city, or incorporate other stops, such as Cascais, Colares, and Guincho Beach.
- Day trips to Sintra generally last about eight hours and typically include return transportation.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Sintra is by train from Lisbon. Trains depart every 10 to 20 minutes from Estação do Rossio to the Sintra Railway Station, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. There’s also a slower bus service from both Lisbon and Cascais.
When to Get There
For the best experience and minimal crowds, plan to visit early in the day, midweek, and outside of the summer high season. Classical music lovers gather in late spring and early summer, when the Sintra Festival takes place and concerts are hosted all over town.
Getting Around Sintra
There are a number of cost-effective ways to get around Sintra, including Bus 434, which goes from Sintra station to most of the major attractions. If you're looking for a more romantic and historic mode of transportation, try a horse-drawn carriage ride around the town center or through the Park of Pena.
Address: Sintra, Portugal
From $ 34
Silent Night Chapel
Silent Night is arguably one of the world’s best-loved Christmas carols and its words were written in 1816 by a priest called Josef Mohr, who lived locally to Salzburg in the rural village of Oberndorf. Its sentimental but catchy tune was composed two years later by Franz Xaver Gruber and the carol was performed for the first time on Christmas Eve 1818 in the village’s St Nicholas Church. This church destroyed by heavy flooding at the end of the 19th century, only to be replaced by the white-washed, many-sided neo-Baroque Silent Night Chapel in 1937. Since then a whole local industry has grown up around the carol, which has been translated into more than 300 languages, and life in Oberndorf has changed forever.
Although a visit to this idyllic little village is a joy any time, and it has a small museum where there are copies of the original manuscript and score, Oberndorf really comes into its own at Christmas. A traditional market takes over its main square and hundreds of visitors from across the world come to hear Silent Night being sung at Midnight Mass in the chapel on Christmas Eve.
Practical Info
Oberndorf is a 20-km (12.5-mile) drive from Salzburg along the A1 and B156. In summer cyclists can follow the Tauern bike path along the River Salzach directly to Oberndorf.
Address: Stille Nacht-Platz 2, Oberndorf, Austria
From $ 52
Sir John Soane's Museum
Housed within the walls of his own home, Sir John Soane’s Museum was designed to inspire students of architecture and drawing by providing examples of different architectural styles and decoration. It has been open to the public since 1837.
The Basics
Sir John Soane was a successful British neoclassical architect, responsible for designing several important Regency-era buildings, including the Bank of England. After becoming professor of architecture at the Royal Academy, he decided to create a museum within his home (made up of three buildings in Lincoln’s Inn Fields) for his students, and the result is a quirky collection of copies of famous statues, Soane’s architectural models, and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
Visit independently or book a tour that visits the museum, like the secret gardens excursion of London that includes afternoon tea.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Admission to the museum is free.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible but is narrow in parts. There are a few special custom-sized wheelchairs available.
- You can prebook a guided tour.
- The museum does not have a shop or cafe.
How to Get There
The museum is located at 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields in Holborn, London. The closest tube (subway) stop is Holborn (Piccadilly and Central lines) which is a short walk away. Numerous buses including nos. 1, 59, and 188 stop nearby on Kingsway.
When to Get There
Sir John Soane’s museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10am–5pm. Last entry is at 4:30pm. It’s also open on bank holidays. Weekends are the busiest time to visit.
Take a Break at Lincoln’s Inn Fields
Thought to have inspired Central Park in New York, the urban green space at Lincoln’s Inn Fields is a popular spot to stop and take a break on any busy day out visiting London’s museums. Close to Sir John Soane’s Museum and the British Museum, it’s the largest public square in the city.
Address: 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields, England
From $ 93
Singel
This slow, winding canal served as a moat around Amsterdam before the capital city expanded in 1585. Today, Singel has become a top attraction thanks to scenic passes and easy access to a number of Amsterdam’s most popular neighborhoods, including the infamous Red Light District.
Travelers looking to explore the Singel can peruse Bloemenmarkt—a well-known flower market that’s comprised of floral-filled boats floating between Koninsplein and Muntplein squares. And a trip along the canal will take travelers past architectural masterpieces from the Dutch Golden era, including iconic houses, the Munttoren tower and the library of the University of Amsterdam. A stroll along the Singel is the perfect way to enjoy an early spring day while taking in the sites, culture and history of one of the Netherlands most favorite cities.
Practical Info
The canal runs between IJ Bay, near Central Station and Muntplein square.
Address: Singel, Amsterdam, Netherlands
From $ 26
Sirince
The small village of just 600 inhabitants has a long history that is intrinsically linked to Ephesus; indeed, rumor has it that it was founded by freed Greek slaves who named it “ugly” in Turkish to deter others from following them after the fall of Ephesus. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the name was changed to Sirince, which means ‘pleasant.’ Nowadays the mountainous village is mainly known for its many preserved whitewashed stucco homes, bucolic and lush setting, as well as its fruit-based wineries and olive groves. The Church of St John the Baptist, although neglected by Turkish authorities, still houses fantastic Byzantine frescoes. Most tourists tend to visit for one day as part of excursions to nearby Selçuk, but there’s a handful of guesthouses and cafés for overnight guests as well. Visitors should be aware that Sirince gets very crowded on the weekend.
Practical Info
Sirince is located on the Aegean coast, one hour south of Izmir via route E87. Bus service to Sirince via Selçuk is sparse and inconvenient but nonetheless available to visitors without a car.
Address: Sirince, Turkey
From $ 12
Sierra Nevada National Park
Sierra Nevada, known as the Mountain of the Sun by Andalucia’s Moorish residents, is home to 15 peaks that are more than 9,800 feet (3,000 meters) high, including the highest point on the Iberian Peninsula and Europe’s most southerly ski resort. This national park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve attracts hikers from around the world.
The Basics
Spain’s largest national park is perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, bird watching, and skiing. The area is also speckled with charming villages, particularly in the region of La Alpujarra, a popular day trip from Grenada. This is where, amid winding mountain roads, you’ll happen upon the famous pueblos blancos (white villages), a group of idyllic towns with Moorish architecture and tiny terraced streets.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sierra Nevada National Park is a must-visit for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Remember to dress in layers; temperatures can vary drastically at different altitudes.
- Bring plenty of water; hot and dry conditions can quickly lead to dehydration.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots suitable for traversing rocky and uneven terrain.
- Cellphone coverage is unreliable within the park.
- Day trips to the La Alpujarra region from Grenada typically last around 10 hours.
How to Get There
Granada serves as the main gateway to Sierra Nevada National Park, which is located 13 miles (21 kilometers) away. Many visitors arrive by car along the highest road in Europe, though it’s also possible to take a bus from the Granada bus station.
When to Get There
If you’re planning to go trekking, visit the region between July and early September (or as early as May in the lower Alpujarras). Inclement weather remains a risk throughout the rest of the year.
Wildlife in the Sierra Nevada
This national park and biosphere reserve protects an incredible range of species. The most notable animal that you’re likely to see during a visit is the Spanish ibex; about 15,000 of them call the national park home. Raptors, rabbits, squirrels, foxes, and badgers are often spotted as well.
Address: Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada, Granada, Spain, Spain
From $ 64
Sigmund Freud Museum
From 1891 to 1938 Sigmund Freud, considered the founding father of psychoanalysis, resided in Vienna at Berggasse 19 before fleeing to Britain when the Nazi’s annexed Austria. Today, his former residence houses the Sigmund Freud Museum and its collection of original furniture, antiques from Freud’s collection and several autographed first editions of his works.
Freud’s youngest daughter, Anna, helped transform the house into a museum in 1971, and she also helped compile a series of historic films of Freud and his family during the 1930s. The museum has steadily expanded since its opening and now includes a library, museum shop and exhibition hall.
In addition to the Freud-centric permanent collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions and a rotating contemporary art collection, displayed in a former butcher shop storefront in the same building as Freud’s living quarters.
Practical Info
The Sigmund Freud Museum is open from 10am to 6pm seven days a week. Not all of the rooms are wheelchair accessible.
Address: Berggasse 19, Wien 1090, Austria
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: Adults €9, Seniors €8, Students (Age 18-27) €6,50, Students (Age 12-18) €4
From $ 68
Silvano Toti Globe Theatre
Located near the Villa Borghese in the leafy park of the same name, Rome’s answer to London’s Globe Theatre is built in the round, in the style of 16th-century Elizabethan London. Constructed of oak, the Globe opened in 2003 and its construction was financed by Silvano Toti, a wealthy patron of the Italian arts. Now under the eye of art director Gigi Proietti, the playhouse puts on a program of magical works by William Shakespeare between July and September. The roof of the theater is open to the elements and the interior has a capacity for an audience of 1,250. The circular seating is on different levels and balconies overlook the rectangular stage, which is surrounded by standing room for the cheapest ticket holders.
The box office is on Viale Canonica; ticket prices for evening performances at the Globe start at €10 and most plays are presented in Italian, with occasional productions in English. Otherwise the theater can be viewed as part of a tour of the Parco Borghese complex, which also includes the fabulous artworks of the Galleria Borghese, the Pietro Canonica Museum, the Bioparco—Rome’s zoo—and the Pincio Gardens.
Practical Info
Largo Aqua Felix, Villa Borghese, Rome. The season runs Jul–Sept, Tue–Sun, with performances beginning at 9pm. Tickets start at €10 and rise to €28. Access is on foot across the Parco Borghese. There’s car parking on Largo Picasso a few minutes’ walk away. The nearest Metro station is Line A to Flaminio; the nearest bus stop is at Piazzale Brasile. The box office on Viale Canonica is open daily Jun 18–end Sept, 3pm–5pm.
Address: Largo Aqua Felix, Villa Borghese, Rome, Lazio 00197, Italy
Hours: Jul–Sept Tue–Sun 9pm. The box office on Viale Canonica is open daily Jun 18–end Sept, 3pm–5pm
Admission: between €10 and €28
From $ 45
Sirmione
The town of Sirmione occupies the tip of a tiny peninsular that protrudes into the southern edge of Lake Garda in northern Italy. Its unique position makes it a popular tourist destination.
Sirmione is known to have been a popular resort town since the 1st century B.C.E., largely because of its thermal hot springs. Much of what you see in Sirmione today is newer, but there are Roman ruins in the historic center, too. The remains of a Roman villa are at the end of the peninsula, and are called the Grottoes of Catullus - the name of a Roman poet whose family lived in Sirmione in the 1st century B.C.E.
Another attraction is the Rocca Scaligera, a 13th-century castle. The picturesque and small historic center gets very crowded during the summer months, so if you can spend the night you may enjoy some peace and quiet.
Practical Info
Sirmione is roughly 80 miles from Milan, or about two hours on the faster train. You would need to take the train to nearby Desenzano del Garda, and then take a bus to Sirmione. It may seem easier (and faster) to drive, but because space is limited and the historic center is pedestrianized, parking can be very difficult.
Address: Sirmione, Italy
From $ 80
Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel, part of Rome’s Vatican Museums, was decorated by art masters Sandro Botticelli and Pinturicchio in the 15th century before being completed with Michelangelo’s stunning 16th-century ceilings frescoes and monumental “The Last Judgement,” which covers the apse wall. The fresco-covered ceiling is the artist’s greatest work and one of the most important masterpieces in history, while the Sistine Chapel serves as a glorious homage to Renaissance art and one of the most visited sights in all of Italy.
The Basics
A Vatican Museums ticket includes access to the Sistine Chapel, and as part of the Vatican Museums, the chapel cannot be visited on its own and can only be entered through the museum complex. Because the Sistine Chapel attracts millions of visitors each year, those who don’t reserve skip-the-line access in advance will find long lines upon arrival. Many travelers find that the complex frescoes are best appreciated with the assistance of an official tour guide, so booking a group tour, an expert guide for a private tour, or even a self-guided audio tour is recommended.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Seeing Michelangelo's frescoes can be unforgettable even for kids if seen as part of a small-group or kid-friendly Sistine Chapel and Vatican tour.
- Because the chapel is a Catholic church, appropriate attire and decorum are required. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees and to keep your voice low.
- Though photography (without flash) is permitted in the Vatican Museums, no photography is allowed in the Sistine Chapel.
How to Get to the Sistine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is part of the Vatican Museums complex adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City. The Ottaviano station on Line A of the city’s underground metro system is about a five-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel are famously crowded, especially during the middle of the day. To skip the line and savor the chapel frescoes in relative peace, reserve an exclusive first-entry or early-access tour in the morning or a night tour after the general public has left. The chapel is often quieter on Wednesday mornings, when the papal address attracts most visitors to St. Peter’s Square instead of the museums.
Sistine Chapel Highlights
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the majesty of Michelangelo’s sumptuous ceiling frescoes, which cover 5,000 square feet (460 square meters) and depict more than 300 figures illustrating the “Creation of the Earth,” the “Creation of Humankind,” and the “State of Humanity.” Take a few moments to focus on and appreciate the iconic scene of the “Creation of Adam” in the ceiling’s central section, one of the most famous and replicated religious paintings of all time.
Address: St Peter’s Square, Vatican City 00120, Italy
Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–6pm, last Sunday of the month 9am-2pm
Admission: Adults €16, Children €8
From $ 25
Sioux City
In the sun scorched surrounds of Gran Canaria island lies a recreation of the American Wild West with cowboys and Indians, gunfights and saloons, and even a petting zoo for the kids.
Originally built as a stage set for 'A Fistful of Dollars' starring Clint Eastwood, Sioux City has since found fame as a popular theme park. Keep your wits about you as you meander along the dusty streets, past the sherrif's office, bank, and general store, for you could get caught in a shoot out. Bank robberies, saloon fights, cattle stampedes, rodeos, and gunfights are all part of everyday life at Sioux City!
If you visit Sioux City on a Friday, stick around for a Wild West BBQ (extra charge), stunts, gunfights, and cancan dancers. It's a wild day out for the whole family!
Practical Info
Sioux City is on Gran Canaria's south coast, about a 40 minute drive from the capital.
From Las Palmas, catch bus 50 to Faro Maspalomas, where you can catch a taxi or bus 29 directly to Sioux City.
If going by car, follow the GC-1 highway south-east from Las Palmas and look for signs to 'Sioux City' when you pass Tarajalillo (49kms/30.5mi, approximately 40mins).
Address: Lugar Cañón del Aguila (near Playa del Aguila), San Bartolome de la Tirajana, Spain
Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday
From $ 25
Sigtuna
Set on Lake Mälaren in Sweden’s scenic Lakeland region, Sigtuna is Sweden’s oldest town and was originally populated by Vikings. While strong remnants of the town’s Viking origins remain, Sigtuna is now full of brightly painted wooden townhouses, narrow streets, restaurants, and hotels.
The Basics
Stroll through the town to admire ancient Viking churches and visit Sigtuna’s main street (Stora gatan) to peruse shops, galleries, and a museum containing Viking artifacts excavated from around town. Families with kids can also enjoy exploring the children's library at Märsta.
Due to the town’s rich Viking heritage, many Sigtuna tours focus on the area’s history. Day trips from Stockholm provide round-trip transportation and typically allow you to explore Viking ruins on the route between Stockholm and Sigtuna, such as ornately carved rune stones that once acted as medieval directional signs and the ancient Viking causeway of Jarlabankes bro at Täby.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sigtuna is a must-see for history buffs.
- Although Swedish is the official language, most Sigtuna residents speak English.
- Sigtuna's main street (Stora gatan) is accessible to strollers and easily explored on foot or by bicycle.
How to Get There
Sigtuna lies just 31 miles (50 kilometers) north of Stockholm. While guided tours provide easy transportation, it’s also possible to arrive by car via the E4 highway. Train and bus transportation is also available, and several ferry routes operate during summer.
When to Get There
Summer is the most popular time to visit Sigtuna, when the weather is ideal for exploring on foot, picnicking by Lake Mälaren, and searching out Viking rune stones.
Sigtuna History
Sweden's first coins were minted here in the 10th and 11th centuries, and Sigtuna also served an important role in the creation of the Church of Sweden. Sigtuna was the center of Christianity in medieval Sweden and has seven churches clustered close together—although they are now in various states of disrepair, the Viking inscriptions in the churchyards can still be clearly seen. The town’s gridded layout also belies its origins in the Viking age.
Address: Sigtuna, Sweden
From $ 296
Silbury Hill
Looming 30 meters (98 feet) over the Avebury countryside, the steep grassy slopes of Silbury Hill are an incongruous sight against the backdrop of gently rolling farmlands. This is no ordinary hill, however – the fascinating man-made structure dates back to around 2400BC and is the largest prehistoric monument of its kind in Europe.
Experts have long debated the significance of Silbury Hill, but while there are few indications of its actual purpose, its size (comparable to the Egyptian pyramids) and careful construction are none-the-less impressive. The mysterious hill also makes an intriguing addition to England’s UNESCO-listed Neolithic monuments, which include the Avebury Ring, the West Kennet Long Barrow and Stonehenge.
Practical Info
Silbury Hill is located just south of Avebury in Wiltshire, southwest England.
Address: Silbury Hill, Avebury SN8 1QT, England
From $ 110
Silves
With its imposing Moorish castle and smattering of whitewashed, orange-roofed houses lining the Arade riverfront, the ancient town of Silves is an arresting sight. It’s more than just a pretty face though – Silves was once the capital of the Algarve and it remains one of the region’s most important historic sites, making a popular choice for a day trip or boat cruise from nearby Portimão.
Silves’ small center is easy to get around on foot, starting with a visit to the historic castle, a striking red brick fortress that dates back to the 12th century. Other highlights include the Silves Cathedral, the landmark Roman bridge, the monumental Cross of Portugal and the Archaeological Museum.
Practical Info
Silves is located in the central Algarve region of Portugal, around 15km northeast of Portimão.
Address: Silves, Portugal
From $ 23
Silves Castle
Silves’ regional prominence began in the 11th century when the Moors conquered the town. Giving it the name of Xelb, they constructed lavish palaces and created a cultural centre of learning for the whole Iberian Peninsular. Prior to its decline as a port due to silt build-up in its river, Silves was once the capital of the entire Algarve region. It traces its history back to 1,000 BC, and the Romans later found its location and resources much to their liking. During the 11th century, the Moors took and fortified the city, renaming it Xelb and building opulent palaces with the intent of creating a cultural center for the entire Iberian peninsula. Silves castle, a red sandstone fortress of Moorish design and décor is replete with beautiful gardens and statuary.
Beyond the Silves Castle, the town has some of the most intact remnants of its Moorish past. Many of the Moors underground water reservoirs are still used today. Much of the town’s culture is related to historical and archeological pursuits, and there is a museum, the Museu Arquelogico (constructed above the largest, Moorish cistern, no less), that displays prehistoric articles found around the region. The Ponte Romana, a Roman bridge over the Rio Arade is a testament to its Roman occupiers, and numerous Christian monuments can be found throughout town, including a granite cross to the northeast of the city.
Practical Info
While Silves is connected to its past, its people find the present suitable, and Silves nightlife is hopping – it is a beach town, after all, and you can find plenty to do in the way of eating and drinking after a day of soaking up the sun. In fact, Silves has become in recent years a popular winter destination due to its mild climate.
Address: Silves, Portugal
Hours: Open daily 9am - 6pm
Admission: € 1.25
From $ 23