Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 4530 listings.
Church of Panagia Paraportiani
Surrounded by the boutiques and bars that have made Mykonos the Aegean’s most stylish and sophisticated Greek island, the flower-bedecked Church of Panagia Paraportiani is a highlight of a wander through the town’s picture-perfect Little Venice. The island’s most famous and most photographed church is made up of four whitewashed chapels, topped by a further bright white chapel on the upper storey, reached by an external staircase. Built between the 14th and 17th centuries, the church once guarded the entrance to the town’s castle, long since destroyed.
The multi-layered nature of the church gives it a unique shape, rising from the squared-off white chapels on the ground level to the domed church of the Virgin Mary on the top. Don’t miss the chance snap a photo of the church, standing out in brilliant white against the deep blue sky of the Aegean.
The multi-layered nature of the church gives it a unique shape, rising from the squared-off white chapels on the ground level to the domed church of the Virgin Mary on the top. Don’t miss the chance snap a photo of the church, standing out in brilliant white against the deep blue sky of the Aegean.
Practical Info
The Church of Panagia Paraportiani is in Chora (Mykonos Town), the island’s main hub. The church is in the historic Little Venice quarter, on the southern side of the port overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Only one of the ground-floor chapels is open to the public.
Only one of the ground-floor chapels is open to the public.
Address: Greece
Hours: Open sunrise to sunset
From $ 113
Church of Sant'Ignazio di Loyola
By Rome's standards, the Church of Sant'Ignazio di Loyola seems like it isn't very old at all – only consecrated in 1722 – but that's because prior to 1650, it was a private church.
Saint Ignatius of Loyola was the founder of the Society of Jesus – better known as Jesuits – and the original church on this site was built entirely by Jesuit labor in the 1560s on the foundation of an earlier building. That church, built as the private chapel for the Collegio Romano (the first Jesuit university), was expanded slightly in 1580, but by the early 1600s it was already too small for the number of students at the college. Construction on the current church was started in 1626, a mere four years after Saint Ignatius of Loyola was canonized, and it opened to the public in 1650.
The interior reflects the church's Baroque style with heavy ornamentation. There is gold decoration everywhere, enormous frescoes, and Jesuit iconography and stories depicted throughout. There's even an enormous trompe l'oeil ceiling, with an indication on the floor where to stand to get the best view.
Practical Info
The church is open Monday-Saturday from 7:30am-7pm (opens at 9am in August), and Sundays from 9am-7pm. There are guided tours you can take for free on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 3pm-6pm (they don't run in August). Admission is free, and donations are always welcome.
Address: Via del Caravita, 8a, Rome, Italy
Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30am-7pm (opens at 9am in August);
Sun 9am-7pm
From $ 3
Church of San Sisto
The Church of San Sisto is one of the oldest churches in Pisa, Italy and was built in the Middle Ages around the late 1000s in a Romanesque style. Despite several renovations throughout the centuries, the church you see today still looks very much like it did when it was first built. The facade is divided into three parts, each separated by pilaster strips. Arches and windows with metal bars can be seen on the upper part of the facade throughout the entire exterior of the church. Visitors will also see replica ceramic basins from the 10th to 11th centuries; the originals can be found in the St. Matthews Museum.
The interior of the Church of San Sisto is divided into three aisles by two rows of granite and marble pillars. The pillars are crowned by capitals from ancient buildings which were reused in the construction of this church. As Pisa was once a big naval power, you will also see a rudder and a mast from the 14th to 15th centuries in the church.
Practical Info
The Church of San Sisto is located at Piazza Francesco Buonamici. Take bus line 4 to the Pacinotti 2 bus stop and walk down Via Curtatone e Montanara for about 5 minutes.
Address: Piazza Francesco Buonamici, 1, Pisa, Italy
From $ 52
Church of Santa Ana (Iglesia de Santa Ana)
The Church of Santa Ana is the oldest church in Seville. Located in the Triana neighborhood, the 13th-century church is home to impressive sculptures, paintings, jewelry and religious processional items, many of which are displayed throughout the interior chapels. Master Castilian stonemasons and Muslim master builders worked on the church, whose remarkable interior features columns topped by corbels decorated with castles, vine leaves, lions and human heads. Admire a conglomeration of architecture with a step inside the originally Gothic church and its Baroque-style reconstruction, added after an earthquake in the 17th century.
You can visit the church as part of a guided bike tour of Seville's highlights, which includes stops at San Jorge Castle and the Jewish Quarter, as well as souvenir photos.
Practical Info
Getting there
The Church of Santa Ana is located a few blocks from the Plaza Armando Jannone in Seville, between Calle de Vazquez de Leca, Plaza Santa Ana and Calle Pureza. The nearest metro station is the Plaza de Cuba. You can also take the bus to the Pages del Corro stop (bus 40) or the Pages del Corro (Troya) stop (bus C3).
Admission
Admission is a suggested donation of EUR 2, and includes a guided tour.
Opening hours
The church is open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 1:30pm, and Friday from 11am to 1:30pm. It is closed on holidays and during the month of August.
Address: Calle de Vázquez de Leca 1, Seville, Spain
Hours: Mon–Thurs: 10am–1:30pm; Fri: 11am–1:30pm; closed Aug
Admission: EUR 2
From $ 54
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
Church of San Vidal
A short walk from the banks of the Grand Canal, the elegant Church of San Vidal is one of Venice’s lesser-visited churches, now best known as a concert venue. The church dates back as early as the 11th-century, but its remarkable classical façade is the result of a 17th-century reconstruction by architect Antonio Gaspari.
For most visitors, the main reason to visit is to attend one of the regular Baroque music concerts performed by the acclaimed Interpreti Veneziani ensemble, but additional highlights include impressive artworks by Piazzetta, Carpaccio and Pallegrini.
Practical Info
The Church of San Vidal is located close to the banks of the Grand Canal in San Marco, Venice, and is open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5:30pm. There is no admission fee, although advance tickets are needed to attend a concert.
Address: Campiello San Vidal, Venezia, Italy
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5:30pm
From $ 39
Church of Santa Maria Assunta (Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta)
Positano’s photogenic cascade of pastel-hued houses is striking, but one of the most remarkable details is the colorful tiled dome of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta (Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta). Lovely from the outside, the church is also an architectural delight within, and home to a 12th-century Byzantine-style icon of a Black Madonna and Child.
The Basics
Near the waterfront at the foot of town, the beautiful Church of Santa Maria Assunta is Positano’s most recognizable landmark. The church’s brightly painted majolica dome and soaring bell tower catch the eye for miles around, but it’s also worth a peek inside to see the grand archways, elaborate classical decoration, and the Byzantine icon from which Positano is said to have gotten its name. Beneath the church are the ruins of a Roman villa dating from the second century BC.
The church, one of the main attractions in Positano, is included in small-group Positano tours or Sorrento shore excursions to the Amalfi Coast. In addition to Positano, Amalfi Coast tours include stops in Amalfi and Ravello.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is Positano’s parish church, and a popular spot for exchanging vows on weekends.
- Positano is set on a steep cliffside, so tours require a bit of walking. Opt for comfortable shoes, and don't forget to wear sun protection.
- Photography is not allowed in the church.
- The church is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is located in the pedestrian-only center of Positano, along Italy's famed Amalfi Coast. You can reach the coast by ferry from Naples in the summer or by bus from Sorrento year-round. The more courageous can drive along the beautiful coastal highway.
When to Get There
The Amalfi Coast—especially its main towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello—get incredibly crowded during the summer, so it’s best to explore the sights along this stretch of coastline in the spring and fall.
The Black Madonna and Child
According to legend, Positano’s Black Madonna and Child was on a ship skirting the Italian coast when sailors heard the figure of Mary depicted on the icon saying, “Posa!” (“Put me down!”). The icon has been in Positano ever since, and the town’s name can be traced back to that legend.
Address: Via Marina Grande, Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy
From $ 43
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 presso San Satiro
Many churches in Italy are built on older worship sites. What makes the Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro in Milan different is that the old church was incorporated into the new one, both in design and name.
The original church on this site was dedicated to San Sitiro (Saint Satyrus), built in the 9th century. In the late 15th century, the church was also dedicated to Mary. The name "Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro" indicates that the new church was "staying with" (presso) the old one.
When the church got its additional dedication, it also got a bit of a redesign. The artist Bramante played a role in the renovation. One of the most interesting pieces of artwork at the church is Bramante's wonderful trompe l'oeil behind the altar; it looks like there's a series of columns that recedes into the distance, but it's just paint.
Practical Info
The Church of Santa Maria presso San Satiro is near Milan's Duomo, and it's open Monday-Saturday from 9:30am-5:30pm, and on Sundays from 2pm-5:30pm. Admission is free.
Address: Via Torino, 17-19, Milano 20123, Italy
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am-5:30pm, Sun 2pm-5:30pm
From $ 73
Church and Crypt of Ayios Dimitrios
Thessaloniki is home to one of the world’s largest caches of Byzantine architectural treasures, thanks to the city being ruled by Constantinople from the fifth century AD to the 13th. The empire’s legacy can be seen in what’s left of the city walls; in the many Byzantine churches; in Latomou Monastery and, most importantly, in the church and crypt of Ayios Dimitrios. Named after the city’s patron saint, the Christian martyr Dimitrios, the church started life as a small temple – itself built over the
remains of a Roman baths complex – in the fourth century and under Byzantine rule it took its present shape as a five-aisled basilica, built of stone with layers of arcaded windows and two stumpy towers. In the Middle Ages Thessaloniki became part of the Ottoman Empire; in 1493 Ayios Dimitrios was transformed into a mosque and its original Christian frescoes and mosaics were plastered over. It remained a mosque until the liberation of the city in 1912, but burnt down five years later. Restoration
took several decades and the church finally reopened in 1949, with only a few surviving relics of its original decoration, including the glittering seventh-century mosaics around the altar. The subterranean crypt was rediscovered after the 1917 fire and houses the silver reliquary of St Dimitrios as well as a museum showcasing early Christian and Byzantine sculptures, coins and fragments of pottery rescued from the blaze.
Practical Info
Agiou Dimitriou Street 97, Thessaloniki. Open: basilica daily
8am–10pm; crypt Mon 1.30pm–7.30pm; Tue–Thur, Sun 8am–7.30pm; Fri 9am–11pm. Admission free. No shorts or sleeveless shirts. Best reached on foot in about five minutes from the railway station.
Address: Agiou Dimitriou Street 97, Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia 54631, Greece
Hours: Basilica: Daily 8am–10pm; Crypt: Mon 1.30pm–7.30pm; Tue–Thur, Sun 8am–7.30pm; Fri 9am–11pm
From $ 29
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
Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
With its multi-colored marble façade and striking round windows, the small-yet-beautiful Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli is one of the most important examples of early Renaissance architecture in Venice. It’s also a highlight of the historic Cannaregio neighborhood along the Miracoli Canal.
The Basics
This early Renaissance church was built in the late 15th century to honor of a sacred icon of the Virgin Mary that was said to have performed a number of miracles. Renaissance architect Pietro Lombardo's use of polychrome marble, sculpted pilasters, and ornate reliefs lends a distinct grandeur to the exterior and interior, where the fabled icon still stands proudly on display.
Because of its architectural importance, it's best to visit Santa Maria dei Miracoli as part of a Venice art and architecture private tour. Many private walking tours stop also stop here, along with other famous sights like St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Art and architecture tours generally involve some walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli is mostly wheelchair accessible, although the main altar, by Pietro Lombardo, is located up a flight of steps.
- Filled with pretty squares and quiet backstreets, the surrounding neighborhood of Cannaregio is one of Venice's most delightful.
- If you’re planning to tour the interior of the church, be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
How to Get There
The Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli is located on the Miracoli Canal at Ponte dei Miracoli. Take vaporetto (water bus) line 1 or 2 from San Marco or the train station down the Grand Canal to the Rialto stop near the Rialto Bridge, then walk north along the Miracoli Canal.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the city can be especially touristy in summer. Time your visit to late fall or early spring to enjoy the city without the crowds.
Holy Leftovers
It’s said that the pastel-colored marble used for the facade of Santa Maria dei Miracoli was taken from leftover construction materials after the completion of St. Mark's Basilica, also in Venice.
Address: Cannaregio, Venezia 6074, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 70
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
Church of Sao Roque (Igreja de Sao Roque)
The church of São Roque was built at the height of Jesuit power in Portugal in the 16th century; while it has a simple, whitewashed Renaissance exterior, it craftily conceals an interior of awesome Baroque indulgence and beauty. It was built in honor of Portuguese explored Vasco da Gama after he discovered a sea route via the Cape of Good Hope to India in 1498. The exquisite riot of ceiling mosaics and gilded ornamentation in the church and its ornate side chapels were paid for by the profits of overseas trade opened up by Da Gama’s exploration.
Most beautiful of all is the 18th-century Chapel of John the Baptist’s (Capela de São João Baptista), which is studded with mosaics of ivory, gold and silver and has earned the reputation as the world’s most expensive chapel – extraordinarily it was designed in Rome by architects Nicola Salvi and Luigi Vanvitelli and shipped to Lisbon in pieces. Adjoining São Roque is a small museum of sacred art (Museu de Arte Sacra), where outstanding exhibits include liturgical robes threaded with gold, silver reliquaries and panels displaying scenes from the life of St Rocco, who lived in the 12th century and was revered for his ability to heal the sick.
Practical Info
Largo Trindade Coelho, Bairro Alto. The church is open daily 9:30am–5pm and is free to visit, while the museum is open Tue–Sun 10am–5pm and admission is €1.50. Take the Elevador de Santa Justa or the Metro to Baixa-Chiado.
Address: Largo Trindade Coelho, Lisbon, Portugal
Admission: Museum €1.50
From $ 16
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
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
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 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
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
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