Things to Do in Napa & Sonoma

Shopaholics in Rome, head for Via Condotti, where even the window-shopping is worth the trip.

Via Condotti (its complete name is Via dei Condotti) is a street in central Rome that dates back to the ancient Roman era. It was a fashionable address as far back as the 18th century, when the Caffe Greco opened and was frequented by the likes of Goethe, Byron, Liszt, and Keats. The cafe remains open – and popular with visitors – to this day.

Most of Via Condotti is known for its fashion boutiques. Major names in fashion have shops along the street, including Gucci, Valentino, Armani, Prada, Ferragamo, Dolce & Gabbana, as well as many other designers – Italian and otherwise.

Located on the outskirts of Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District, the Venustempel Sex Museum is the world’s oldest sex museum, dating back to 1985. Housed in a striking 17th-century building, it chronicles the evolution of human sexuality throughout the ages through an extensive collection of items relating to sex and eroticism. 

Tickets for the Venustempel Sex Museum include full access to the exhibitions, and the small museum is easy to explore on a self-guided tour. You can also combine a visit to the museum with an Amsterdam city tour, a walking tour of the Red Light District, or a coffee shop tour.  

The museum is conveniently located near the Central Station within Amsterdam’s canal ring. It’s about a five-minute walk from Dam Square and situated close to attractions such as the Oude Church, the Royal Palace, and the Anne Frank House. 

 

The museum is open daily year round and stays open late—around 11:30pm or so. The small museum can get crowded during peak season (July and August), so opt for an early morning or late evening visit. 

More than just a display of erotically charged items, the museum charts how sex has been regarded and experienced throughout periods of history, including ancient Egypt and Rome and the repressive Middle Ages. The museum also has a permanent display of erotic paintings, statues, recordings, photographs, and artifacts.

In an Italian neighborhood known for its winding streets and narrow back alleys, Via del Corso has become well known as the only perfectly straight lane in the historic center of Rome. The iconic stretch of narrow roadway extends from Porta del Popolo to Capitoline Hill and grants travelers access to Baroque churches and other local landmarks.

Visitors will find the picturesque street that once served as the racetrack for Roman Carnival to be the perfect place for people watching, as locals and travelers alike stroll along the sidewalks as part of a traditional passeggiata—a casual, leisurely stroll. In addition to being an ideal spot to see and be seen, Via del Corso also offers plenty of shops, restaurants and boutiques.

A tranquil oasis running between the teeming spaces of Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna, Via Margutta is a short but charming cobbled street with narrow townhouses in hues of red and terracotta, decked with ivy and planted with shrubs. In ancient times an open sewer and today one of Rome’s prettiest streets, Margutta has attracted artists, stonemasons, poets, sculptors and composers to its three short blocks since medieval times. Today art stalls, workshops, galleries and studios abound among the terraced trattorias and the street’s Fontana delle Arti is topped by a carved stone bucket filled with artists’ brushes. Revered Italian film director Federico Fellini lived at number 110 and it has even starred in its own movie, when Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn take a cab to Via Margutta, 51, in Roman Holiday. Over the years the romantic little lane has also been home to Picasso, Stravinsky, Puccini and Debussy; it looks particularly lovely during April’s festival of  ‘100 Pittori’ (100 Pictures), when artists set up stalls and exhibit their work for sale.

Istanbul’s Vialand is a huge theme park complex which includes a luxury hotel, indoor and outdoor shopping malls home to over 250 stores, and dozens of restaurants as well as a cinema, games center, and open-air performance venue big enough to fit 10,000 people.

For older kids and adults looking for a thrill, Vialand is most famous for its Ride the Breath Taker roller coaster which can reach speeds of 68 miles an hour in 3 seconds. Water rides like Wild River are also popular. For little kids, there are more gentle rides including carousels and mini cars, and there are plenty of playgrounds scattered round this complex that's actually big enough to fit 100 football fields.

Characters for the kids to meet include Spongebob Squarepants and Dora the Explorer — both characters also have their own 4D shows. For adults, Vialand indoor shopping mall hosts brand names like The Gap and H&M, and outside you can visit Vialand’s shopping avenues which are modeled on streets from different European cities. Vialand is also home to a 100-acre park where walking paths lead around the main lake.

The Victoria and Albert Museum houses more than 2.3 million cultural artifacts from around the globe, spanning over 5,000 years. Explore the museum’s world-famous collections of Asian art and postclassical sculpture, attend a family-friendly drop-in session, or discover work by masters such as Raphael, John Constable, and William Morris.

Many opt to visit the V&A, located on the same street as the Science Museum and Natural History Museum, as part of a wider exploration of the South Kensington neighborhood. For those looking for a more intimate experience of the world-famous collection, a private tour provides personalized insights. If you’re particularly interested in one area, thematic tours are also available, while families with kids can benefit from tours specifically designed for children.

The the Victoria and Albert Museum is located on Cromwell Road in the South Kensington neighborhood of London. To get there by public transit, take the underground to South Kensington, which has direct tunnel access to the museum. Alternatively, the 52 and C1 buses from London Victoria stop nearby.

The Victoria and Albert Museum is extremely popular and can become crowded, especially during peak summer months. For a more peaceful visit, aim to arrive first thing in the morning on weekend days or in the late afternoon during the week, or take advantage of extended open hours on Fridays. The museum’s temporary exhibitions change regularly, so it’s a good idea to check ahead to see what’s on.

Over in East London, another branch of the V&A specializes in art and design for young people. The UK’s National Museum of Childhood is the world’s largest museum of its kind and offers exhibitions, events, and activities to engage adults and children alike.

Leading from the Capitoline Hill to the Colosseum via the first-century AD Arch of Titus as it traverses the Forum from west to east, the Via Sacra (Sacred Way) was once the main thoroughfare of Ancient Rome. With its origins stretching back to at least the fifth century BC, it was later paved and later still, in the times of Nero, lined with colonnades. The street was backed by Ancient Rome’s temples, civic buildings and the palaces of the wealthy; it was here that festivals were held, where prostitutes came to solicit clients and where crowds gathered to gossip and gamble along its route. Via Sacra was also scene of triumphal processions to celebrate military victories, when slaves and prisoners were dragged to market. Today the road forms part of the open-air museum that is the Forum; over the centuries this has been ravaged by fire, plundered for its stone and used as cow pasture but still retains something of its ancient majesty among scattered boulders, shattered arches and broken columns.

Winding past some of Naples' most noteworthy attractions, Via Toledo is one of the city's oldest streets. Travelers who wander down this 0.7-mile (1.2 km) -long stretch of picturesque pavement will pass the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the Teatro Augusteo and the stunning Galleria Umberto.

In addition to some incredible architectural and cultural attractions, there are plenty of Italian boutiques and big-name department stores along Via Toledo, while dozens of tasty restaurants set on quiet side streets provide perfect spots to enjoy a traditional Naples lunch. And of course, the street itself is home to what is easily considered the city's best people-watching.

The Verde Canyon Railroad winds its way along the scenic Verde River at a leisurely 12 mph (19 kph), offering passengers a unique way to experience the Arizona wilderness. The refurbished heritage railroad cars make the round-trip journey through national forest land, with stellar views out windows on both sides of the train.

 

A ride aboard this restored vintage train takes passengers 20 miles (32 kilometers) from an historic train depot just outside Sedona to the ghost town of Perkinsville and back. Passengers can choose between coach or the more spacious first class, both of which have access to open-air viewing cars, where outdoor attendants provide insight into the canyon’s history, geology, and ecology. Once a month during the summer, the railroad offers a nighttime starlight excursion to allow passengers to see a different side of the high desert.

 

 

The train depot is in Clarkdale, about 40 minutes outside Sedona or two hours from Phoenix. The easiest way to get there is to drive, and you’ll find parking across the street from the depot.

 

Climate-controlled indoor cars make the train a popular excursion throughout the year. Expect temperatures of around 90°F (32°C) (when enjoying the open-air cars) during the summer months or the occasional light dusting of snow in winter.

 

The train passes between the Prescott and Coconino national forests, affording plenty of opportunity for viewing some of Arizona’s 900 animal species. Keep your eyes open for great blue herons along the banks of the Verde River or bald eagles soaring above the train cars.

Cecil Rhodes, a businessman from England, wanted engineers to build a bridge across the Zambezi where “trains, as they pass [could] catch the spray of the falls.” And while he may have died before this dream was realized, the Victoria Falls Bridge was crossed by regular train traffic for more than 50 years. Today, this 650-foot long bridge, which stands 420 feet above the Zambezi River, is a destination for history buffs and extreme sports enthusiasts alike. Guided tours focusing on construction and history are a popular activity for those visiting Victoria Falls. Those in search of serious adventure can use the bridge for bungee jumping, gorge swinging and ziplining.

Via Cola di Rienzo is a long, straight avenue connecting one corner of Vatican City with the Tiber River at the Regina Margherita Bridge. The street was built and named after 14th-century politician Cola di Rienzo in the late 19th century, just after Italy was unified, and was one of the main streets in the Prati neighborhood. Today, it is primarily a shopping destination, with clothing chain stores, department stores, and Italian shoe stores lining the street. While best known for its retail, you'll also find casual restaurants, hotels, and gourmet food items.

Brands along Via Cola di Rienzo include Guess Jeans, The Body Shop, and Benetton, as well as popular European brands, such as Max Mara, Zara, Liu Jo, Stefanel, Sisley, Falconieri, and the Coin department store. Some shopping tours include stops on the Via Cola di Rienzo, and it’s also easy to browse on your own before or after a visit to the Vatican.

Estadio Vicente Calderon is home to the Atletico Madrid football club. It sits on the banks of the Manzanares River in the heart of the city, in the Arganzuela district. Opened in 1966, it was the first stadium in Spain to achieve Elite classification from the UEFA. In addition to hosting three second round games of the 1982 World Cup, the stadium often hosts international matches of the Spanish national team.

The stadium is designed with two large tiers of uncovered stands that curve around the pitch, but with no corner seating connecting to the so-called Preference side, which is the only side that has a roof. Not surprisingly, that is where you will find the VIP boxes, the Royal Box and the press room. The stadium seating is distinctive, with seats painted in red and white stripes, the same colors as the team jerseys. Unfortunately, the stadium is scheduled to be demolished in a few years when Atletico Madrid moves to a new stadium. A park is planned to be built in its place.

Arguably the most picturesque—and steepest—of all the Cinque Terre villages, Vernazza is indeed a striking sight: snaking narrow lanes and a crescent-shaped harbor are framed by forested peaks and glittering Mediterranean waters. Visitors can stroll the scenic waterfront, snap photos of the charming pastel-colored buildings, and explore a medieval castle before heading down to the sandy beach for a refreshing swim in the sea. 

 

Vernazza makes a good base for exploring Cinque Terre National Park, which encompasses all five Cinque Terre towns, and for enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and paragliding along the Italian Riviera. Day tours to Vernazza run from La Spezia, Siena, Lucca, and Florence, and typically include visits to the neighboring villages of Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, and Manarola, as well as a stop in nearby Portovenere. Cruise ship passengers can opt for a shore excursion from Genoa. 

Located in Cinque Terre National Park, between Corniglia and Monterosso al Mare along the Italian Riviera, Vernazza is a 2.5-hour drive from Florence or a 45-minute drive from La Spezia. Parking is limited in Vernazza, so unless you are staying in town overnight, it’s best to join a tour or arrive by train from La Spezia (a 20-minute ride). Alternatively, from mid-April through October, ferries connect Vernazza with La Spezia, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Manarola. 

Vernazza and the rest of the Cinque Terre see the most visitors and highest temperatures—upwards of 100°F (40°C)—in summer. Hikers should aim to visit in May or September to avoid the peak heat, while budget-minded travelers might want to skip August, when hotel prices skyrocket. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in heavy rain or icy conditions. 

Vernazza is best known for its colorfully painted houses, but the cliffside village is also home to some impressive historic monuments. Get a panoramic perspective from medieval Doria Castle, built to protect the town from pirates; admire the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, which dates back to the 14th century; or hike into the mountains to take in the views from the Sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio.

Commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1508, the grand Via Giulia is one of Rome’s most elegant thoroughfares, running for almost 1km between the Piazza dell'Oro and Piazza San Vincenzo Palloti. It’s a picturesque walkway, with its timeworn cobblestones framed by monumental arches, historic churches and Renaissance-era buildings, and the smattering of cafés and restaurants offer ample opportunities for people watching. 

Highlights of Via Giulia include the ivy-covered Arco Farnese, designed by Michelangelo; the adjoining Palazzo Farnese; and the 17th-century Fontana del Mascherone.  Other architectural gems include the Palazzo Falconieri, the baroque Santa Maria dell'Orazione Church; and the Palazzo Sacchetti, while the street has also earned a reputation for its quality antique shops.

More than 6,000 acres along the Zambezi River make up this lush rainforest reserve, which boasts some of the best views of Victoria Falls. From the shores of this protected land it’s easy to see at least four of the five sections that make up this natural wonder—the Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls and the Eastern Cataract. 

Take the short walk to Cataract Point in the far west to experience a profile view of the falls looking east. Then wander to Danger Point, where you can descend the 73 steps into the gorge separating Zimbabwe from Zambia. This may be the closest visitors can get to the Devil’s Cataract, the lowest of the five falls, but it’s not such a great spot for catching scenic views, since the bigger picture tends to get lost in the mist. 

With a long-standing reputation for elegance and a starring role in Federico Fellini's 1960 film La Dolce Vita, Via Veneto was once the stomping ground of international actors, celebrities and paparazzi. Today, the stylish thoroughfare remains one of Rome’s most glamorous addresses, running between Piazzale Brasile and Piazza Barberini in central Rome, and lined with luxury hotels, chic bars and streetside cafés.

Start your explorations at lively Piazza Barberini, home to the magnificent 17th-century Palazzo Barberini, then stroll north along Via Veneto, passing landmarks like the Capuchin Church of the Immaculate Conception and Palazzo Margherita, now home to the U.S Embassy. Be sure to pay a visit to famous cafés like Harry’s Bar, Café de Paris and Doney too, where former customers include big names like Audrey Hepburn, Tennessee Williams and Coco Chanel.

A modern town with ancient roots, Viana do Castelo is in the very north of Portugal, crushed between the estuary of the River Lima and the wild surf of the Atlantic Sea. The Praça da República, its beautiful fountains and the Church of the Misericórdia –a three-story melange of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture – form the medieval heart of the city. Along with the 15th-century cathedral, the ancient piazzas and Manueline mansions all contrast neatly with the area’s modern-day seafront marina. But Viana is best known for its Santuario de Santa Luzia, a church perched on a hilltop overlooking the Atlantic rollers. It is accessible by funicular from the town center, which will climb the 820-foot hill. 

The construction of this elaborate Neo-Byzantine church began in 1903 based on a design by Miguel Ventura Terra, who was inspired by the Sacré Coeur in Paris. The church’s ornate façades are adorned with delicate rose windows, double-domed twin spires, a rounded apse and a grand central dome. Take the elevator to the top of the dome for panoramas across Viana do Castelo to the Atlantic.

The Via Dolorosa is an ancient path in Jerusalem’s Old City, where it’s believed Jesus carried the cross to his crucifixion. Also known in Catholicism as the Stations of the Cross, it’s a pilgrimage that’s been followed going back to the fourth century. The route has changed over the years, and today there are 14 stations along the path, each marked with a plaque detailing what took place at that location.

Visitors can follow the path Jesus is said to have taken while carrying the cross to his crucifixion. The Via Dolorosa is open to the pubic, and visitors can choose to make their own way or book a guided tour to add context. Many pilgrims stop to pray and reflect on the events believed to have taken place at each station, although it should be noted that it’s a busy and often noisy route, with a bustling outdoor market going on around it.

The Via Dolorosa begins at the Lion’s Gate in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City and stretches about a third of a mile (500 meters) to its end at the Christian Quarter at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

The Via Dolorosa is open to the public year round, but the Franciscan procession at 3pm on Fridays is a popular time to follow the path.

The Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City stretches across 76 acres (31 hectares) and can be accessed through Lion’s Gate, Damascus Gate, and Herod’s Gate. It’s easy to get lost in the winding maze of lively streets that make up the Arab Souk in center of the Muslim Quarter. Stalls selling everything from spices, breads, and pastries to freshly squeezed pomegranate juice and hummus are tightly packed along the narrow streets. The buzzing outdoor markets are a sight to behold, with traders hawking wares on streets that are thousands of years old.