Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Lake Grasmere
Famously described by Wordsworth as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found’, Lake Grasmere has high credentials and the powder-blue lake, bordered by emerald green hillsides and lush woodlands, is certainly among the most attractive in the Lake District.
Grasmere’s fame means it’s also one of the National Park’s top destinations and huge crowds flock to the lakeside during the summer months to walk around the lakeside, paddle around the lake on a rowing boat or kayak, or explore the eponymous village, renowned for its handmade chocolates and gingerbread. Grasmere Lake is also a popular stop for literary fans, with top attractions including the Wordsworth family graves and Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount, both former homes of Wordsworth and preserved as museums.
Practical Info
Lake Grasmere is located just south of Grasmere village in the center of the Lake District National Park.
Address: Grasmere, Lake District, England
From $ 39
La Turbie
Perched on a hilltop looking down over the Cote d’Azur and just minutes from the border of Monaco, La Turbie makes a worthwhile detour for those en-route to Monte Carlo. With its narrow paved streets and stone-brick archways, the small village offers an authentic slice of old Provence, and its baroque church and medieval buildings make for a pleasant walking tour.
The undisputed star attraction of La Turbie is the striking Tropaeum Alpium or ‘Trophy of the Alps’, a grand 35-meter-tall monument that looms over the town and was built by the Romans in 7 BC. North of the Tropaeum, walking trails run up into the surrounding hills and offer impressive lookouts over the Mediterranean coast below, with views spanning Cap Ferrat, Antibes and as far as Vintimille bay in Italy.
Practical Info
La Turbie is located on the Cote d’Azur on France’s southeast coast, close to the border of Monaco.
Address: La Turbie, Cote d’Azur, France
From $ 104
Lacock
A small, rural village on the southern edge of the Cotswolds in Wiltshire County, Lacock is famous for its historic feel and big-screen appearances. It has been featured in several film and television productions, including Pride and Prejudice, Emma and most recently, Harry Potter.
Sights include the medieval Lacock Abbey, with its expansive English gardens, stable house and Fox Talbot Museum, a photography exhibition named after the inventor of the negative/positive photographic process (a Lacock resident in the 1800s.)
Many visitors enjoy the two-mile walk that circles the surrounding countryside and offers views of the town and its abbey.
Practical Info
Lacock is located west of London, and the easiest way to get to it from the city is by taking the train from London Paddington station to Chippenham, followed by a bus to Lacock. It is also accessible via a two-hour car ride.
Address: Lacock, England
From $ 129
La Sorbonne
The striking edifice presiding over Paris' 5th arrondissement Latin Quarter, the historic La Sorbonne is renowned as one of the first European centers of higher education, housing the prestigious Collège de Sorbonne since its founding in 1257 by Robert de Sorbon.
It’s the building itself that garners the most attention, a sprawling campus rebuilt in 1653 by Cardinal de Richelieu to the designs of architect Jacques Lemercier. A blend of Baroque and Renaissance styles replaced the original medieval structure, but the last remaining building from this period is the iconic domed Romanesque Chapelle de la Sorbonne (the Chapel of La Sorbonne), where the sculpted tomb of Cardinal de Richelieu is housed. A wander through the Sorbonne courtyard and café-lined plaza offers views of the amphitheaters, library and observatory (which was reconstructed by Henri Paul Nénot in the late 19th-century), showcasing a picturesque variety of architectural styles.
Today, the building houses four divisions of the prestigious University of Paris -- the Pantheon-Sorbonne University, the Sorbonne Nouvelle University, the Paris-Sorbonne University and the Paris Descartes University -- as well as the extensive Sorbonne Library, and is open to the public only through pre-book guided tours.
It’s the building itself that garners the most attention, a sprawling campus rebuilt in 1653 by Cardinal de Richelieu to the designs of architect Jacques Lemercier. A blend of Baroque and Renaissance styles replaced the original medieval structure, but the last remaining building from this period is the iconic domed Romanesque Chapelle de la Sorbonne (the Chapel of La Sorbonne), where the sculpted tomb of Cardinal de Richelieu is housed. A wander through the Sorbonne courtyard and café-lined plaza offers views of the amphitheaters, library and observatory (which was reconstructed by Henri Paul Nénot in the late 19th-century), showcasing a picturesque variety of architectural styles.
Today, the building houses four divisions of the prestigious University of Paris -- the Pantheon-Sorbonne University, the Sorbonne Nouvelle University, the Paris-Sorbonne University and the Paris Descartes University -- as well as the extensive Sorbonne Library, and is open to the public only through pre-book guided tours.
Address: France
From $ 18
La Roca Village
Bargain-hunters and brand-name lovers have one more destination they should add to their list of must-dos while in Barcelona: La Roca Village. Situated just over 30 minutes northeast of the coastal metropolis, and on the way to Costa Brava, the village-like shopping center is home to more than 130 boutiques, offering deals of up to 60% off retail price.
What you’ll find there is an open-air town of sorts packed with shops by high-end international brand names, and that sell products ranging from clothes to furnishings and other goods. La Roca also has a selection of quality restaurants and cafes to keep you fueled during your shopping excursion. To maximize your visit, note that there are a few stores located just outside the village as well.
Practical Info
La Roca Village can be easily reached from Barcelona by car, via the shopping center’s own Shopping Express shuttle, or by public bus (though a one-way journey will take considerably longer — roughly an hour and half versus just 30 minutes).
Address: Santa Agnès de Malanyanes (La Roca del Vallès), Barcelona, Catalonia 08430, Spain
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m.-9 p.m., with special hours during the holidays. Note that it closes a handful of days throughout the year, so be sure to consult the website before your visit.
From $ 23
Lahemaa National Park (Lahemaa Rahvuspark)
Estonia’s biggest national park covers 72,500 hectares of wetlands, pine forests and seashore on the Baltic Sea. The crenellated coastline wends its way around horseshoe-shaped bays and finger-like peninsulas, while inland forest, lakes, waterfalls and peat bogs are interspersed with tracts of rocky soil scattered with erratic boulders dumped at the end of the last Ice Age.
Much of Lahemaa has been protected from development as it was classed as military land during Russian occupation of Estonia; there are abandoned Soviet submarine stations still to be seen across the park, slowly falling into dilapidation. Today tourism is king and accommodation in the park varies from campsites to historic manor houses found along the 40 km (25 miles) of cycling and hiking trails. Thanks to the lack of development in the area, Lahemaa is home to many species of birds, including cranes, storks and dippers, and several mammals very rarely seen in Europe, such as beavers, moose and even the occasional – but very elusive – lynx, wolf or brown bear.
Practical Info
Lahemaa is 70 km (44 miles) east of Tallinn on the E20 road. The Visitor Center at Palmse is open daily late-Mar–mid-Sept 9am–7pm; late Sept–mid-March 9am–5pm. Some zones are closed during the bird-breeding season between April and July.
Address: Lahemaa, Estonia
From $ 75
Lake Geneva (Lac Leman)
Lake Geneva is Switzerland's largest body of water, though most of its southern shore lies within France. A crescent of blue hemmed in by the snowy peaks of the French and Swiss Alps, the lake is a year-round hotspot for outdoor activities, with a northern shore covered in picturesque villages, terraced vineyards, and medieval castles.
The Basics
The western extremity of the lake is dominated by the city of Geneva, while the towns of Lausanne and Montreux lie on the northern and eastern shores, respectively. Day trips from these Swiss hot spots make it easy to explore lakeside landmarks such as the medieval bastion of Chillon Castle (Château de Chillon). Visitors can soak up the scenery on a Lake Geneva cruise, ride the GoldenPass Panoramic train into the Swiss Alps, take a Geneva sightseeing tour, or hop over the French border to explore Annecy, Chamonix, or Mont Blanc.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lake Geneva is located in French-speaking Switzerland.
- Many boat tours and trains are wheelchair accessible, but it's best to check with operators in advance.
How to Get There
Lake Geneva is located at the southwestern tip of Switzerland, with its southern shore lying in French territory. Paddle steamers and speedboats traverse the length and breadth of Lake Geneva, stopping at lakeside towns, while commuter trains travel the length of the Swiss shore and connect Geneva and Lausanne with other cities around Switzerland. Guided tours leave from Geneva to explore lakeside towns and attractions. The main international airport is in Geneva.
When to Get There
Lake Geneva is one of Switzerland's top vacation destinations—especially during summer and Christmas. While summer visitors come to vacation in the Swiss Riviera, hike in the Alps, and enjoy boat cruises and water sports on the lake, winter travelers can hit the ski slopes or visit the famous Montreux Christmas Market.
The Villages of Lake Geneva
Geneva and Lausanne make strategic bases for exploring the lake, but the real highlight of Lake Geneva is the atmospheric lakeside villages. Visit Chillon Castle in Montreux, enjoy wine tasting in the Lavaux vineyards, attend the weekly market in Vevey, or journey up to the mountaintop town of Gruyeres, famous for its cheese.
Address: Switzerland
From $ 49
Lace Conservatory (Conservatoire de la Dentelle)
Bayeaux is best known for its vast tapestry illustrating the Norman Conquest of Britain in 1066, but is also renowned as a center of lacemaking. The Conservatoire de la Dentelle de Bayeux was founded in 1901 in a bid to conserve the local tradition of lacemaking, which began in the 17th century. Bayeux lace is made by hand on bobbins and its delicate patterns come in just three colors: white, black and ecru. While once there were more than 5,000 lacemakers in Normandy, today there are less than a dozen exponents of the art and several showcase their handiwork in the Lace Conservatory.
Located in a 16th-century mansion with the figures of Adam and Eve carved into its façade, the conservatory is open for tours of the workshops, where expert lacemakers are always on hand to demonstrate their skills while keeping alive their techniques. Visitors can have a go at creating their own lacy masterpieces and there are year-around exhibitions of delicate shawls, napkins and bookmarks; these are also on sale along with lacemaking implements and books. Individual commissions are undertaken.
A collection of handmade 18th-century Bayeaux lace is on show at the Musée Baron-Gérard (MAHB) on the same street; a side trip to the Lace Conservatory can be combined with touring the Normandy beaches.
Practical Info
Maison Adam et Eve, 6 rue du Bienvenu, Bayeaux. Open Mon-Sat May–Sept 9.30am–12.30pm, 2pm–6pm (Mon & Thur 5pm). Admission is free. Lacemaking courses start at €230. Best accessed by car along the N13; take exit 36 towards Bayeux. Alternatively take the train; the conservatory is a 15-minute walk from the railway station.
Address: 6 rue du Bienvenu, Bayeaux, Calvados, Normandy 14400, France
Hours: Mon–Sat May–Sept 9.30am–12.30pm, 2pm–6pm (Mon & Thur 5pm)
Admission: Free. Lacemaking courses start at €230
From $ 100
La Triennale Museum
La Triennale Museum explores the history of Italian design, highlighting innovative works in furniture and industrial design, architecture, and decorative arts. Fittingly located in Milan (Italy’s design capital), the museum lies within the Palazzo dell’Arte—a venue originally built for the Triennale decorative arts show.
The Basics
One of the Palazzo dell’Arte’s best-known exhibitions, La Triennale Museum is a fascinating collection of everyday objects made to resemble art, and vice versa. Also in the same building is the Design Library (with thousands of books, magazines, and photographs available for reference) and the Teatro dell'Arte (a performance space for music, theater, and dance).
The MilanoCard and Milan Pass include free or discounted admission to the museum, along with other city highlights such as La Scala and the Duomo terraces. Many hop-on hop-off city bus tours stop at La Triennale Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- La Triennale Museum is a must-see for design and architecture fans.
- A café, a pizzeria, and a restaurant with a Michelin-starred chef are located on-site.
- The entire museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- There is free Wi-Fi on-site.
How to Get There
La Triennale is located in the middle of Parco Sempione, the largest park in central Milan, between Sforzesco Castle (Castello Sforzesco) and the Arch of Peace (Arco della Pace). To get there by public transit, take the red or green metro line to Cadorna or city bus 61 to the Triennale stop.
When to Get There
The Triennale Museum is one of Milan’s more popular museums, so try to visit first thing in the morning or in the evening (it stays open until 8:30pm). If you happen to be in town during the Triennale event, which occurs every three years, a visit is highly recommended. The next Triennale is in 2019 and runs from March to September.
Design is Everywhere
From the building’s architecture and the exhibitions on display to the chairs at the café, everything at La Triennale revolves around design. Upon entry, one of the first things visitors see is a suspended bridge with overhead lighting. The on-site Agora Theatre, designed completely in wood from the cedars of Lebanon, hosts design-related events and performances.
Address: Viale Emilio Alemagna, Milan 20121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Lake Balaton
At 48 miles (77 kilometers) in length and seven miles (11 kilometers) at its widest point, Balaton is Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake and landlocked Hungary’s prime summer playground, with spectacular scenery and swim-friendly milky green waters. The lake is fringed by beach resorts, a national park, and wine-producing vineyards.
The Basics
Because of its proximity to Budapest, Hungary’s largest lake is a prime choice for day-trippers based in the city. Full-day Lake Balaton tours from the Hungarian capital typically pass through the countryside before stopping at attractions around the north shore, such as the Herend Porcelain Manufactory, the spa town of Balatonfüred, and the 18th-century Benedictine Abbey on the Tihany Peninsula. Some sightseeing tours also stop at local Balaton wineries. Active travelers can bike around the lake on the cycle path that encircles it.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lake Balaton makes a peaceful escape from bustling Budapest.
- Bring a swimsuit to take advantage of Lake Balaton’s shallow, calm waters.
- Watersports, such as windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing can be practiced on the lake, though no motorized sports are allowed.
- Many full-day tours include lunch at a traditional Hungarian restaurant.
How to Get There
The shore of Lake Balaton is just an hour’s drive from Budapest via the M7 motorway. Drivers must purchase a highway permit from a gas station before venturing onto the motorway. Alternatively, trains depart several times a day from Budapest-Déli Station, stopping at Siófok, Balatonfüred, and Badacsony.
When to Get There
Lake Balaton is at its best in summer. During this time, warmer temperatures invite sunbathing, swimming, and outdoor activities. Music lovers may want to time their trip to coincide with Balaton Sound, a major open-air electronic festival that takes place in July in Zamárdi on the south shore. Get there early in the day to avoid summer traffic. In winter, it’s often possible to ice skate on the lake.
North Shore vs. South Shore
The lakeside resorts on Balaton’s northern shore are more low-key and often offer family-friendly facilities such as playgrounds and paddleboats. The northern shore is also home to the main wine-growing regions, the hiking-friendly Balaton Uplands National Park, and Szigliget, a village known for its 13th-century fortress. The resorts on the south shore of the lake, such as Siófok, Fonyód, and Balatonlelle, are typically livelier, with a party-style atmosphere and beach clubs.
Address: Lake Balaton, Hungary
From $ 69
Lake Bled
Nestled into the foothills of the Julian Alps in northwest Slovenia, glacial Lake Bled is a place of spectacular natural beauty. Subterranean thermal springs keep the lake’s exquisite blue-green waters relatively warm during summer, making it a hot spot for water sports. Bled also makes a perfect base for exploring the Julian Alps.
The Basics
Lake Bled is lovely to admire from any vantage point. Wander the paved path that circles the entire lakeshore, take a traditional pletna (wooden flat-bottom boat) ride to the island in the lake’s center (or rent a boat and row yourself), or tour the medieval Bled Castle perched on the cliffs above and enjoy panoramic views from the castle terrace. For the more adventurous, take a guided rafting trip down one of Bled’s emerald rivers, rappel down cascading waterfalls on a guided canyoning tour, or rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside. Other popular activities in summer include swimming, kayaking, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Guided tours to Lake Bled depart from cities such as Ljubljana, Piran, Koper, Zagreb (Croatia), and Trieste (Italy). Some tours include a stop at Postojna Caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lake Bled is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint, in the hills above Bled, for the best views of the lake.
- Relax at the private beach closest to town for a fee, or enjoy the public beach on the west shore of the lake for free.
- Be sure to grab a slice of Bled’s famous cream cake.
- The path around Lake Bled is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Lake Bled is located in northwestern Slovenia, an easy 34-mile (50-kilometer) drive from Ljubljana. Bled is serviced by two major train stations, and direct buses run frequently from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. The nearest airport is in Ljubljana.
When to Get There
Lake Bled is a joy to visit in any season. The high season is from mid-June through August, but September, October, April, and May are great months to visit thanks to mild weather and fewer visitors. Bled gets cold during the winter months, however the lake is very picturesque when blanketed with fresh snow.
Cycling Lake Bled
Cycling is an excellent way to explore Lake Bled and the surrounding countryside. Choose between a guided cycling tour or renting a bike and exploring on your own. There is no shortage of bike rental providers in Bled, and most bike rentals come with bike locks, repair kits, and maps of the area.
Address: Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
From $ 52
Ladies' View
In the heart of Killarney National Park, Ladies’ View has a way of showing that natural beauty is timeless. Back in 1861, when Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting visited this Kerry overlook, they were so enamored with the view of the lakes that the picturesque promontory still carries their regal name today. From this panoramic overlook off of N71, gaze down on the three lakes that sit at the middle of the park, and since the light here is constantly changing, if you simply sit and reflect for an hour you may see rainbows, shadows and beams of light that dance on the surrounding hills. Just up the road from the main overlook, there is another parking area with a small trail that offers views of the upper lake, and when standing here on this windswept ridge gazing out on the view below, it’s like looking through a portal to Ireland’s past—where the raw beauty of the Irish countryside exists in its natural state.
Practical Info
The Ladies’ View Lookout is located 12 miles from Killarney when headed in the direction of Kendare. It’s often considered the most popular viewpoint in Killarney National Park, and is also a popular destination when touring the park by bike.
Address: Killarney National Park, Killarney, Ireland
From $ 12
Labirinto Lisboa
The Labirinto Lisboa is the only permanent haunted attraction in Portugal, combining live scare actors and special effects across 17 different environments. In just 15 minutes, explore a winding labyrinth that attempts to bring Portugal’s darkest historical characters and legends to life in a way that may feel like being inside a horror movie. Face the Grand Inquisitor in the Court of Inquisition before moving on to the Wellway to Hell and the Ossuary, a chapel built of human bones. Enjoy an appointment with a crazy doctor in a tuberculosis ward and then check out the home of one of Portugal’s most famous serial killers in the Fiery Lair. An infamous child-killer lurks in the Bloody Attic and a giant monster of the seas that haunted Portuguese sailors for centuries awaits in the Giant’s Cave.
Practical Info
The Labirinto is located in the heart of Lisbon at Rua do Instituto Industrial 6-10, near Cais do Sodre and Mercado de Ribeira. It is open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 5 to 10 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to midnight. Groups of 8 to 10 people are admitted every 5 to 10 minutes.
Regular tickets costs 15 Euro, but are just 12 Euro during “spooky hour” on Thursdays from 8 to 10 p.m. No one under 12 is admitted and those 12 to 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Visits are not recommended for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions.
Address: R. Instituto Industrial 6, Lisbon 1200-225, Portugal
Hours: Open Wed, Thurs, and Sun 5pm-10pm and Fri-Sat 5pm-12am
Admission: 15 euros
From $ 17
Lake Misurina
Just over 106 miles north of Venice, high up in the Dolomites, sits a large natural lake that contributed to Olympic speed skating history. With its handful of hotels lining its shores, clear, fresh air and mountain backdrop, Lake Misurina is the spot to go to if you're looking for a scenic getaway from the canal city of Venice.
The lake is near the 1956 Winter Olympics host city of Cortina d'Ampezzo and served as the site of the last Olympic speed skating events that were held on natural ice. A 1.6-mile path runs around the lake, which has a maximum depth of 16 feet. Each of the several hotels on the lake offer views of the spectacular mountains. Behind each of the hotels on the lake are the spectacular mountain views.
Practical Info
Lake Misurina is accessible via public transit from Venice, but the easiest (and fastest) way to get there is by renting a car or booking a private tour that includes direct transportation. While you're in the area, don't miss a stop in the ski resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo to see how the town’s Germanic influences combine with Italian heritage.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 179
La Scala Opera (Teatro alla Scala)
Teatro alla Scala, one of the world’s greatest opera houses, has hosted some of Italy’s most famous opera and other performances. Located in downtown Milan, this 18th-century theater and cultural landmark—magnificently restored in 2004—seats many of its 2,000 spectators in elegant boxes adorned with gold leaf and red velvet.
The Basics
La Scala is an impressive sight whether or not you’re an opera or ballet aficionado. The building’s exterior may not be as remarkable as Milan’s Duomo, just a stone’s throw away, but a tour of its opulent interior is a must for any music lover. Along with the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, La Scala is one of the most popular attractions in Milan, so booking a skip-the-line tour is a must. Consider joining a small-group walking tour of Milan’s highlights with an expert guide to avoid long entry waits and to learn first-hand about the iconic sights’ fascinating history. If you would like to take a full tour of La Scala, you must visit with an official tour guide. These theater tours also include a visit to La Scala Museum, which houses a collection of costumes and set designs, musical instruments, portraits of actors and musicians, and an archive. Of course, nothing beats seeing a La Scala concert, ballet, or opera, including beloved works by Rossini, Puccini, and Verdi.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Without a performance ticket or guided theater tour, you can see the inside of the theater only by visiting La Scala Museum, which includes a quick peek into the auditorium through the third-level boxes when there is no rehearsal or performance.
- Purchase performance tickets in advance to ensure a seat.
- The theater and museum are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though the guided theater tour is not.
- Large bags and backpacks must be checked into the cloakroom.
How to Get There
La Scala is located on Piazza della Scala in the heart of downtown Milan, just on the other side of the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II from the Duomo. The tram line 1 and yellow metro line both stop near the theater.
When to Get There
The La Scala performance calendar runs year-round. Theater tours are held on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday afternoons when there is no rehearsal or performance scheduled. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5:30pm with a few holiday and other closures; see the website for details.
The “Staircase Theater”
The word scala means “staircase” in Italian, but Teatro alla Scala was so named because it was built on the site where the Church of Santa Maria alla Scala once stood.
Address: Piazza della Scala, Milan 20121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Laduree Paris
Light and fluffy, in pretty colors, Ladurée macarons are a symbol of Parisian elegance. The bitesize pastries, sold at beautifully styled stores across Paris (and the world), attract crowds of shoppers day after day. A visit to Ladurée for afternoon tea and a box of sweet treats to take home is a must-do for many tourists in Paris.
The Basics
The Ladurée story began in 1862 when Louis-Ernest Ladurée opened a small bakery on rue Royale, close to modern-day Place Vendôme. Over the years Ladurée expanded the space to include a tea shop, but the now iconic pastel-colored macarons were not introduced until the mid-20th century.
Nowadays Ladurée has several shops across Paris, including the original location on rue Royale and a flagship store on the Champs-Élysées. Visitors can book a tour that includes a stop at Ladurée, reserve a table for brunch or afternoon tea, or simply fill a green and gold box with tasty macarons to enjoy later in the day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ladurée stores can be found across Paris, and also at Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports.
- The macarons are made with almond flour so may not be suitable for people with nut allergies—other pastries and sweets are available.
- The stores are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Ladurée has a number of locations across central Paris, including at 16 rue Royale and 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées in the 8th arrondissement. These stores and others are readily accessible by metro, bus, taxi, or as part of a private tour of the city with transport provided.
When to Get There
The Ladurée store on rue Royale is open 8am–8pm Monday to Saturday and 9am–7pm on Sunday. The Champs-Élysées store is open 7:30am–11pm Monday to Saturday and 7:30am–10pm on Sunday. For other stores, check before visiting.
Climb the Arc de Triomphe
At the head of the Champs-Élysées stands the impressive Arc de Triomphe, a Parisian icon recognized around the world. The arch’s construction was ordered by Napoleon in 1806, but by the time it was finally finished, Napoleon had abdicated and the royal Bourbon family was back on the throne. The Arc de Triomphe was inaugurated by King Louis-Philippe in 1836. Climb to the top and you’ll get a panoramic view over the entire city, all the way to the Seine river.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 133
LagOmar
Get a taste of Lanzarote in more ways than one at LagOmar, where its museum, restaurant, bar and cottages are all wrapped into one magical lava-rock landscape. Once a private home, the structure was built into a volcanic quarry, lending to an oasis-like setting filled with caves, spectacular island views and unique gardens and architecture.
The private property was conceived by local artist and architect César Manrique, designed by José Soto and later completed by other architects. Perhaps more famous than LagOmar’s creators is the story of its once owner, actor Omar Sharif, who came to the island to film a movie, fell in love with the property and purchased it. But alas, rumor has it that he owned it for only one day before losing it in a bet over a bridge game.
Whatever the history, today’s property can be visited and enjoyed in a variety of ways. Go there to check out its museum, where you can learn more about LagOmar and also view revolving art exhibitions. Or just come for dinner and drinks; by night, the property becomes awash in magical lighting that takes its caves, cocktails and Mediterranean meals to an altogether otherworldly level. Then, you can stick around even longer if you wish, as the Lanzarote getaway also offers two-person cottages.
Practical Info
LagOmar is centrally located at Lanzarote and just a 15-minute drive away from the coastal city of Arrecife. The museum is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: C/Los Loros, 2, Lanzarote, Spain
Hours: The museum is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: Pricing varies by attraction
From $ 44
La Sagrada Família
La Sagrada Familia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Antoni Gaudi’s magnum opus, is undoubtedly the most iconic structure in Barcelona (and the most popular, with nearly 3 million visitors per year). Construction has been ongoing for more than 135 years, and the surreal structure, with its rainbow-hued stained glass windows, is slated for completion in 2026. Even in its unfinished state, it remains an absolute must-see for every visitor to the Catalan capital.
The Basics
While the Sagrada Familia looms large over Barcelona—it’s visible from many parts of the city—the cathedral should be seen up close and from within to truly be appreciated. Visitors can tour the interior on their own, on a guided tour, or with an audio guide. It’s also possible to take an elevator up one of the towers for sweeping views over the city.
Just about every sightseeing tour in Barcelona includes a stop here, as do hop-on hop-off bus tours, which also stop at Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, and Plaça de Catalunya. It’s possible to combine a visit to the Sagrada Familia with a half-day trip to the nearby mountain abbey of Montserrat or the medieval city of Girona.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Ticket lines can get long, so it’s a good idea to book in advance and consider skip-the-line admission.
- Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited on the basilica grounds.
- While photography is permitted, the use of a tripod is not without prior permission.
- Much of the basilica and museum are wheelchair accessible, but the towers are not.
How to Get There
The Sagrada Familia is centrally located near the Sagrada Familia metro stop on lines 2 and 5. It’s also easy to reach on foot from just about anywhere in the old city. The main entrance sits along Carrer Marina in front of the basilica’s nativity facade.
When to Get There
The Sagrada Familia is open throughout the year but can be extremely busy in summer, so a skip-the-line ticket is recommended. The facade looks markedly different when illuminated at night than it does during the day, so plan for at least a short visit during both periods. Note that the basilica holds an international mass each Sunday morning in several languages; entrance is free, but space is limited.
Visiting the Sagrada Familia Museum
The basement beneath the passion façade houses a museum covering the temple's construction through drawings, photographs, and plaster models. Entry to the museum is included in basilica admission, and visitors can see the working modeling studio where Gaudi’s restored maquettes are reproduced to aid in the structure’s ongoing construction.
Address: Carrer del Guadiana, 13, Barcelona, Catalonia 08014, Spain
Hours: Opens at 9am daily; closing times vary by season (6pm Nov–Feb; 7pm March, Oct; 8pm April–Sept)
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
La Spezia Cruise Port
A busy Mediterranean naval port in northern Italy, the La Spezia cruise port offers cruisers access to three of the country’s top destinations: Pisa, Florence, and the must-see chain of five cliffside villages known as the Cinque Terre. Cruise passengers also utilize La Spezia as a jumping-off point to other highlights in Piedmont and Liguria. Even if you don’t plan to venture out of town, La Spezia, backed by mountains and home to several museums and a castle, has plenty to offer for a day in port.
The Basics
Cruise visitors have a number of day trip options from the cruise terminal. Many La Spezia shore excursions head to nearby Portovenere before arriving in the Cinque Terre by ferry for a day of hiking through areas of Riomaggiore and Vernazza. Others traveler further afield to Tuscany to visit cities such as Lucca (46 miles or 75 km away), with its palatial Guinigi Tower; Pisa (48 miles or 77 km away), with its famous Leaning Tower; and Florence (93 miles or 48 km away), known for its array of Renaissance art. A wine-tasting tour through Chianti also makes a great shore excursion tour to the Tuscan countryside.
Alternatively, some cruise passengers choose to stay in La Spezia, where most of the highlights are within walking distance of each other. Choose a city walking tour to see San Giorgio Castle (Castello di San Giorgio), only a half-mile west of the port; the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption (Santa Maria Assunta), full of artwork; and the Amedeo Lia Museum (Museo Civico Amedeo Lia), a fine arts destination housing paintings by Tintoretto, Titian, and others from the 13th to 17th centuries. Finish up your city tour at the waterfront Technical Naval Museum (Museo Tecnico Navale).
The Basics
Cruise visitors have a number of day trip options from the cruise terminal. Many La Spezia shore excursions head to nearby Portovenere before arriving in the Cinque Terre by ferry for a day of hiking through areas of Riomaggiore and Vernazza. Others traveler further afield to Tuscany to visit cities such as Lucca (46 miles or 75 km away), with its palatial Guinigi Tower; Pisa (48 miles or 77 km away), with its famous Leaning Tower; and Florence (93 miles or 48 km away), known for its array of Renaissance art. A wine-tasting tour through Chianti also makes a great shore excursion tour to the Tuscan countryside.
Alternatively, some cruise passengers choose to stay in La Spezia, where most of the highlights are within walking distance of each other. Choose a city walking tour to see San Giorgio Castle (Castello di San Giorgio), only a half-mile west of the port; the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption (Santa Maria Assunta), full of artwork; and the Amedeo Lia Museum (Museo Civico Amedeo Lia), a fine arts destination housing paintings by Tintoretto, Titian, and others from the 13th to 17th centuries. Finish up your city tour at the waterfront Technical Naval Museum (Museo Tecnico Navale).
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to La Spezia From the Cruise Port
La Spezia cruises dock at Molo Garibaldi, just 1.5 miles (2 km) from the city center. Once off the cruise ship, walk to the Public Gardens (Giardini Pubblici) across from the base of the pier, and you’ll be in town. Alternatively, take a shuttle bus or a taxi for the short journey. The La Spezia Centrale railway station, situated in the Piazza Medaglie d’Oro, offers service to Pisa and the Cinque Terre with trains running a couple times an hour. Ferries also run from La Spezia’s ferry terminal, about a 20-minute walk from the cruise dock, to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre.
Port Information
The currency in Italy is the euro, and the language is Italian. La Spezia is compact, so you should easily find free WiFi, ATMs, and tourist information.
- Shore excursion tours include port pickup and drop-off so you don’t have to worry about missing sailing times.
- Most La Spezia shore excursions are full-day trips lasting about nine hours.
- Opt for a private tour to customize your experience in port and choose the cities you’d like to visit.
How to Get to La Spezia From the Cruise Port
La Spezia cruises dock at Molo Garibaldi, just 1.5 miles (2 km) from the city center. Once off the cruise ship, walk to the Public Gardens (Giardini Pubblici) across from the base of the pier, and you’ll be in town. Alternatively, take a shuttle bus or a taxi for the short journey. The La Spezia Centrale railway station, situated in the Piazza Medaglie d’Oro, offers service to Pisa and the Cinque Terre with trains running a couple times an hour. Ferries also run from La Spezia’s ferry terminal, about a 20-minute walk from the cruise dock, to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre.
Port Information
The currency in Italy is the euro, and the language is Italian. La Spezia is compact, so you should easily find free WiFi, ATMs, and tourist information.
Address: La Spezia, Piedmont & Liguria, Italy
From $ 170
Lake Lucerne
Located at the heart of Bernese Oberland and surrounded by the famous peaks of Mount Rigi and Mount Pilatus, Lake Lucerne (Lac Luzern) is one of Central Switzerland’s most photographed natural wonders and the country’s fourth largest lake. Whether you’re soaring overhead in a cable car, cruising the lake itself, or visiting waterfront villages such as Weggis and Gersau, Lake Lucerne is mesmerizing from all angles.
The Basics
Lucerne city tours will take you to the lake’s most memorable viewpoint: looking out over the Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrucke) from the shore of Old Town. Alternatively, enjoy a hike around the lakeside villas; take the Golden round trip and travel by boat, cogwheel railway, and aerial cableway to the most spectacular viewpoints on Mount Pilatus; or gaze down over Lucerne from the summit of Mount Rigi.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It can get chilly on the mountaintops or out on the lake even in the summer, so bring some warm clothes.
- Many boat tours and trains are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the operator in advance.
How to Get There
Lake Lucerne is located in Central Switzerland, 30 miles (50 kilometers) south of Zurich, or roughly 45 minutes by train. Trains run regularly from Zurich to the city of Lucerne, located on the lake’s northwest shore. Daily ferries run between Lucerne city and Fluelen at the southeast tip of the lake, taking about three hours one way and stopping at lakeside towns such as Vitznau, Beckenried, and Brunnen. You can also travel to different lakeside attractions on a sightseeing boat tour.
When to Get There
Lake Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s top vacation destinations. Summer (July through August) and Christmas are the most popular times to visit. While summer visitors come to hike in the Alps and enjoy boat cruises on the lake, winter travelers can hit the nearby ski slopes or visit the Lucerne Christmas Market.
Day Trips in the Lake Lucerne Region
Once you’ve scaled the summit of Mount Rigi and ridden the world’s steepest cog railway to the top of Mount Pilatus, brave a ride to the “Top of Europe” at Jungfraujoch or hike the notorious Eiger Trail around the North Face of Eiger Mountain. You could also visit the alpine village of Engelberg and take in the views from Mount Titlis, ride the open-air cable car to the top of Mount Stanserhorn, or take a ride on the Golden Pass Scenic Train.
Address: Switzerland
From $ 28