Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Mosaiccos
Many come to Barcelona to see the structures of the city designed by famous architect Antoni Gaudi, with his distinct vision and trademark use of intricate mosaics (called trencadis.) Not many get to learn about the process and create their own mosaics, which is where the Mosaiccos workshop comes in. With classes and activities suited for all ages, participants learn the technique, choose their design, and then craft a unique handmade souvenir. The most popular workshop is called the “Gaudi Experience,” which allows visitors to not only see but create the art itself.
There is also a shop on site with unique gifts all crafted in this broken tile and glass style. Culturally decorative mosaics have been a tradition for more than 1,000 years. It’s a hands-on way to experience the distinctive design and style that has shaped the city of Barcelona.
Practical Info
Mosaiccos is located in the historic El Born district of Barcelona on Carrer de Corders 11. It is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 7 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. Call ahead to reserve a spot in one of their workshops.
Address: Carrer de Corders 11, Barcelona, Spain
Admission: Varies by workshop
From $ 52
Montjuïc Castle
Looming over Barcelona city center from the 170-meter summit of Montjuïc Mountain, the forbidding Montjuïc Castle, or Castell de Montjuïc, adds a dramatic silhouette to the city skyline. Reachable via cable car from the Montjuic Funicular station, the 17th-century fortress is most popular as a lookout point and the Cami del Mar walking track affords spectacular panoramic views over the city, the distant mountains and along the Mediterranean coast.
Behind the castle’s majestic façade lies a grim and gruesome history, used mostly during the late 19th and 20th centuries to house and execute political prisoners. Anarchists, fascists and Republicans have all met their maker within these walls, most famously Lluis Companys, the President of Catalunya who was executed here by firing squad in 1940. The somber unmarked tombstones in the castle grounds offer a reminder of the castle’s sordid past, but with plans underway to transform the building, which once housed a military history, into a museum of international peace, the fortress’s future looks set to be more positive.
Be sure to take a walk around the palace gardens while you’re there, adorned with famous sculptures like Pau Gargallo’s ‘La Pomona’ and Josep Clarà’s ‘La Fertilitat’, then walk across the ancient drawbridge and climb the stone stairs to the castle’s roof top viewing terrace.
Behind the castle’s majestic façade lies a grim and gruesome history, used mostly during the late 19th and 20th centuries to house and execute political prisoners. Anarchists, fascists and Republicans have all met their maker within these walls, most famously Lluis Companys, the President of Catalunya who was executed here by firing squad in 1940. The somber unmarked tombstones in the castle grounds offer a reminder of the castle’s sordid past, but with plans underway to transform the building, which once housed a military history, into a museum of international peace, the fortress’s future looks set to be more positive.
Be sure to take a walk around the palace gardens while you’re there, adorned with famous sculptures like Pau Gargallo’s ‘La Pomona’ and Josep Clarà’s ‘La Fertilitat’, then walk across the ancient drawbridge and climb the stone stairs to the castle’s roof top viewing terrace.
Address: Carretera de Montjuic, 66, Barcelona 08038, Spain
Hours: October 1 to March 31: Every day 9am to 7pm. April 1 to September 30: Every day from 9am to 9pm.
From $ 29
Montparnasse Cemetery (Cimetière Montparnasse)
Opened in 1824, the Montparnasse Cemetery (le Cimetière du Montparnasse) is the city’s second-largest cemetery after Père Lachaise. It is a cultural highlight of the Montparnasse neighborhood, thanks to its history and famous residents; after all, it’s the final resting place of Jean-Paul Sartre, Serge Gainsbourg, Charles Baudelaire, and more.
The Basics
Originally known as the Cimetière du Sud (the Southern Cemetery), Montparnasse is one of Paris’ three largest and most important cemeteries. Established on what was formerly farmland, the cemetery is today renowned as a final resting place of artists, writers, and other important cultural figures. High-profile graves (including those of Charles Baudelaire, Simone de Beauvoir, Julio Cortázar, Samuel Beckett, Guy de Maupassant, Susan Sontag, and Man Ray) have made it one of the neighborhood’s most popular tourist attractions.
Although the Montparnasse Cemetery is free to enter, guided walking tours of the landmark help draw attention to its highlights and make its scale manageable.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Montparnasse Cemetery stretches across 47 acres (19 hectares) and contains more than 35,000 graves.
- The cemetery, currently divided into 30 sections, is still expanding: roughly 1,000 new residents are added each year.
- One highlight is the Tower of the Mill of Charity, a listed Historic Monument and the sole remaining piece of an 18th-century mill that once stood on-site.
How to Get There
Take Métro lines 4 or 6 to the Raspail station, which is located at the corner of the cemetery. The major Gare Montparnasse is also nearby and is served by the TGV and other train lines, while the Montparnasse – Bienvenüe Métro station connects to the 4, 6, 12, and 13 lines. Alternatively, take bus lines 28, 58, 82, 88, 89, 91, 92, 94, 95, or 96 to reach the site. The cemetery is also accessible on foot, by taxi or car, or by Vélib’.
When to Get There
Montparnasse Cemetery is open daily; depending on the season, it opens at 8, 8:30, or 9am and closes at 5:30 or 6pm. The cemetery is a scenic destination throughout the year, whether flanked by golden leaves, dappled with sunlight, or dusted with snow.
Montparnasse Highlights
Use your visit to the Montparnasse Cemetery as an excuse to see other neighborhood highlights. Visit the observation deck at the top of the Tour Montparnasse, explore the adjacent Fondation Cartier pour l’Art Contemporain, or see the subterranean Catacombs of Paris.
Address: 3 Boulevard Edgar Quinet, Paris 75014, France
From $ 41
Moselle River
The Moselle River, a tributary of the Rhine, flows for 338 miles (544 kilometers) from the western slopes of the Ballon d’Alsace through France, Luxembourg and Germany before joining the Rhine near Koblenz. Known as the Rhine’s quieter, quainter little sister, the Moselle River meanders through the Moselle Valley, passing cobbled villages and dreamy medieval castles along the way.
The hillsides rising from the banks of the Moselle River produce excellent white wines, particularly Rieslings. The history of viticulture here dates back to the second century, when Romans began planting vines in the area to cut costs on shipping wine in from Italy.
One of the most popular ways to explore the slow-moving Moselle is by river cruise; itineraries often include numerous wine tastings between stops at half-timbered villages, hilltop castles and historic forts. Walking trails follow the banks of the portion of the Moselle in Germany for those who prefer to explore on foot.
Practical Info
November to March marks low season along the Moselle River, and some hotels and restaurants shut down.
Address: Moselle Valley, Germany
From $ 287
Monument of Lysicrates
The Monument of Lysicrates is the best preserved choragic monument in Athens, Greece. In ancient times, statues like this one were built as a base for placing trophies. Theater competitions were organized each year, and the sponsor of the winning performance won a trophy. This particular one was built by Lysicrates, a wealthy citizen of Athens, in the 4th century BC. It stands over 30 feet high and is crowned with a capital in the shape of acanthus leaves. The bronze trophy would have been placed on top of this capital.
On top of the pedestal, you can see a tholos, which is a circular structure with Corinthian columns and covered with a marble roof. Beneath the roof you can see a frieze that shows scenes from the winning play along with Dionysus, the patron god of the stage. The monument was integrated into a Capuchin monastery that was built in the same location in the mid 1600s, which is part of the reason it has survived.
Practical Info
The Monument of Lysicrates is located on Lysicrates Square near the Acropolis. The closest metro station is Acropoli.
Address: Lysicrates Square, Athens, Attica, Greece 10558, Greece
From $ 20
Monument to the Great Fire of London
The Monument to the Great Fire of London, often simply known as ‘The Monument,’ is a Doric Greek column built to commemorate the Great Fire of London. The monument, designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1671 and 1677, is located near the northern end of London Bridge and has been welcoming visitors for more than 300 years. There are now many cafes and restaurants that have popped up around this historic landmark. Visitors may climb the 311 steps leading to the top of the monument, and get rewarded with spectacular views of the city of London (and a certificate of athletic prowess!). The monument was built to commemorate the Great Fire of London and to celebrate the rebuilding of the city after the destruction caused by the fire, which began in a baker’s house on Pudding Lane and raged for three days – destroying much of the city. The only buildings that survived the fire were the ones built of stone (like St. Paul’s Cathedral). The monument is 202 feet high (61 meters) – the exact distance between it and the place on Pudding Lane where the fire was started.
Practical Info
The monument is located at the junction of Monument Street and Fish Street Hill, 202 feet (61 meters) from the place the Great Fire of London started in 1666. The monument only accepts cash payment. Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult in order to climb the steps to the top. Large bags must be left at the base of the staircase.
Address: Fish St Hill, London EC3R 8AH, England
Hours: Open daily Oct-Mar 9:30am-5:30pm (last entry at 5pm); April-Sept 9:30am-6pm (last entry at 5:30pm)
Admission: Adults: £4; Children: £2
From $ 16
Mosque of Christ of the Light (Mezquita Del Cristo De La Luz)
As is the case with so many of Toledo’s sights, the Mosque of Christ of the Light (or, in Spanish, the Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz) is a blend of cultural influences, telling the story of the city through its architecture. The mosque, considered the most important piece of Islamic art in Toledo, was built in 999 and, come the 12th century, was turned into a Catholic church.
What makes it particularly special is the fact that it is the only remaining mosque of ten that once existed in the city, and that it very much remains in its original state. Though the space is small, its grounds — from the small square interior with Moorish horseshoe arches, to the outside gardens with views of the city — transport visitors back some thousand years in time, making this a pretty special stop.
Practical Info
The mosque is located in the northern part of the city and is easily reachable from anywhere in the old quarter.
Address: Cristo de la Luz, 22, Toledo, Castilla La Mancha 45002, Spain
Hours: Hours vary by season
Admission: €2.50; accredited groups: €2.20; children under 11: free.
From $ 13
Montpellier Zoo
The second largest zoo in France, the Montpellier Zoo covers 60 hectares just north of the city center. Opened in 1964, the zoo is laid out like a safari park with open enclosures where most animals roam free. A children’s farm was added in 1982, new enclosures were developed for lions, bears and the rare white rhinoceros in 2001, and giraffes arrived at the zoo in 2010. Altogether, visitors can see more than 100 different animal species, including 50 species of mammals from Africa, South America, Eurasia, Oceania and France, reptiles and amphibians from South America and birds from Africa, South America, Oceania and France.
A greenhouse known as Serre Amazonienne opened in 2007 that is home to 3500 tropical plants. Split into seven climactic zones, the greenhouse covers 2600 square meters and is also home to 500 animals, including anacondas, alligators, piranhas and tarantulas. Every two hours an artificial rainstorm pours down to create the feeling of being in an Amazon rainforest.
Practical Info
The Montpellier Zoo is located four kilometers north of the city center. To get there, take tram 1 to the St-Eloi stop and catch the free number 13 shuttle bus to the zoo. An audio guide is available in English, French, German or Spanish for one Euro and provides an hour of commentary. Monthly guided tours are also offered, but must be booked in advance.
Address: 50 av Agropolis, Montpellier 34090, France
Hours: Apr-Sept, Tues-Sun, 9:30am-6:30pm; Oct and Feb-Mar, Tues-Sun, 10am-6pm.; Nov-Jan, Tues-Sun, 10am-5pm
From $ 17
Moscow Zoo
Founded in 1864, the Moscow Zoo sits in the center of Moscow, a natural escape from the bustling city streets. When it opened, the zoo covered 10 acres and held fewer than 300 animals. Continuously expanded over the past century and a half, the zoo today is the largest in Russia, covering over 50 acres and featuring more than 6,000 animals. The entrance, shaped like a large rock castle, is conspicuous among the modern architecture on the surrounding streets.
In the old area of the zoo, visitors can find animals such as bears, large cats and elephants, as well as the popular dolphin aquarium and penguin pool. A footbridge crosses Bolshaya Gruzinskaya street and leads to the new area, which is home to the primate house, the children’s zoo and several cafes. Renovations to the zoo in the 1990s added features like waterfalls and streams to give it a more natural feeling.
With an emphasis on the children’s education and entertainment, the zoo is an ideal destination for families visiting Moscow.
In the old area of the zoo, visitors can find animals such as bears, large cats and elephants, as well as the popular dolphin aquarium and penguin pool. A footbridge crosses Bolshaya Gruzinskaya street and leads to the new area, which is home to the primate house, the children’s zoo and several cafes. Renovations to the zoo in the 1990s added features like waterfalls and streams to give it a more natural feeling.
With an emphasis on the children’s education and entertainment, the zoo is an ideal destination for families visiting Moscow.
Practical Info
The Moscow Zoo is located near the corner of Krasnaya Presnya and Bolshaya Gruzinskaya. The entrance is across the street from the Barrikadnaya Metro station.
Address: 1, Bolshaya Gruzinskaya Street, Moscow 123242, Russia
Hours: Closed: Monday
During Summer Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 8pm
During Winter Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Admission: Adults: 100 rubles (about $3.50) and Children under 18 and Students: Free
From $ 10
Montparnasse
Home to art museums, major monuments, and Paris’ only skyscraper, eclectic and edgy Montparnasse is one of the city’s most interesting districts. Located in the 14th arrondissement on the Left Bank, it was famously the stomping grounds of artists and intellectuals in the 1910s and 20s, many of whom now rest in the Montparnasse Cemetery.
The Basics
Named after Mount Parnassus—the mountain in Greek mythology where the Muses were said to reside—Montparnasse has long had a reputation for creativity and intellectual daring. The neighborhood experienced its golden age—or its Années Folles (Crazy Years), as the period is known locally—during the 1910s and ‘20s, when internationally renowned artists and writers including Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani, Man Ray, Max Ernst, James Joyce, Ernest Hemingway, André Breton, and Marc Chagall called the neighborhood home.
Today, Montparnasse is home to the Tour Montparnasse, the city’s only skyscraper; visitors also flock to the Montparnasse Cemetery, the Fondation Cartier pour l’Art Contemporain, and the Catacombs of Paris. You can take a tour of all four; alternatively, hop-on hop-off bus tours, bike tours, and walking tours provide a general neighborhood overview.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Tour Montparnasse, which debuted in 1973, is the city’s only skyscraper, and its 56th-floor observation deck provides some of the best views in town.
- The Montparnasse Cemetery is the second-largest in Paris, after Père Lachaise, and contains the graves of many top artists and other creatives.
- The macabre Catacombs of Paris were first established in the late 18th century, and they contain the remains of more than 6 million people.
How to Get There
The Gare Montparnasse is one of Paris’ largest and most important railway stations, and includes numerous train services, including the TGV. Additionally, the Montparnasse – Bienvenüe Métro station includes connections to the 4, 6, 12, and 13 lines. Other stations in the neighborhood include Vavin (line 4), Raspail (lines 4 and 6), Edgar Quinet (line 6), and Port-Royal (RER B). Alternatively, travel by bus or taxi, or explore on foot or by bicycle.
When to Get There
As one of Paris’ busiest and most vibrant neighborhoods, Montparnasse is destination-worthy throughout the year. Explore sights like the Montparnasse Cemetery during the day and venture to the top of the Tour Montparnasse in the evening to savor aerial views of Paris’ neon-lit cityscape.
Restaurants and Cafés in Montparnasse
Montparnasse’s history comes to life at the cafes and restaurants that were once favored by famous artists—La Coupole, Le Dôme, and La Closerie des Lilas are all still open today. The neighborhood is also renowned for its many Breton crêperies; don’t leave without indulging in a salted butter caramel crêpe.
Address: France
From $ 41
Montecassino Abbey (Abbazia di Montecassino)
The Abbey of Montecassino is one of the most famous abbeys on earth, due in part to its rich history of destruction and recovery. This incredible mountain monastery was founded by Saint Benedict in 529 and served as a reminder to locals and travelers alike of the power or prayer.
Today, thousands of religious pilgrims make their way to Motecassino Abbey, where they take part in holy services, wander the cloisters and absorb the beauty of the abbey’s golden mosaics. A museum on the grounds showcases paintings, manuscripts and historic texts, as well as the story of the abbey told through images.
Practical Info
The abbey is open daily from late March until November 1 from 8:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. From November 1 to March 21 it is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sundays and holidays from 8:45 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Services take place on Sundays and holidays at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. Guided tours are available.
Address: Lazio, Italy
From $ 46
Monument to Catherine the Great
Catherine the Great was loved by the people of Russia, and her reign is often referred to as the golden age of Russia. Alexander II wanted to honor the empress and had the Monument to Catherine the Great built. The sculpting began in 1862 and wasn't completed until 1873. The statue shows Catherine the Great wearing an ermine coat. She carries a laurel wreath in her left hand and a specter in her right hand. Around her neck she wears the order of St. Andrew.
There are nine other statues towards the base of the monument, and they represent the sphere of influence of the Empress, including Prince Griogory Potemkin and Field Marshall Alexander Suvorov. The only other female statue aside from Catherine is Princess Catherine Dashkov who was the founder of the Russian Academy of Science. The statue of Catherine the Great was replaced by a statue of Lenin after the 1917 Revolution, but it was put back again after the end of the Soviet regime.
Practical Info
The Monument to Catherine the Great is located on Ostrovsky Square. The nearest metro station is Gostiny Dvor.
Address: Ostrovsky Square, St Petersburg 191023, Russia
From $ 32
Montmartre
A large hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, the historic district of Montmartre is crowned by Sacré-Coeur Basilica, attracting visitors who come to walk the cobblestone streets and imagine what life was like during the Belle Epoque, when artists such as Dalí, Renoir, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Picasso lived and worked here from the late 19th to early 20th century. Today, artists still gather at Place du Tertre to sketch tourist portraits—a favorite souvenir.
The Basics
Montmartre is included in many city sightseeing tours, so if you just want a brief glimpse, that’s a popular way to check the area off your list. For an in-depth look, select a more tailored experience that suits your interests, such as a Montmartre food tour or an art-themed walking tour. For nighttime fun, head to a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge, located down the hill in Pigalle.
- Montmartre is a highly visited part of Paris, so be prepared for crowds in the busy summer season.
- The neighborhood is a must-see for art history buffs and those looking for postcard views.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the many stairs and cobblestones.
- If visiting in the warmer summer months and plan to walk uphill, bring water to stay hydrated.
How to Get to Montmartre
If you’re up for it, start at the base of the hill and walk up, enjoying views along the way, or cheat by taking the funicular to the base of Sacré-Coeur. Visitors also love the staircases for photo ops; try the one that runs along the funicular line or the one up Rue Maurice Utrillo. By public transit, the Abbesses metro station deposits you a few blocks from Place du Tertre, and the Anvers metro station puts you below Sacré-Coeur. Any taxi driver will also know how to get to Montmartre.
When to Get There
Just like the rest of Paris, Montmartre will charm you at any time of year. If you’re there in summer, go in the morning to beat the masses and enjoy the neighborhood’s architecture and atmosphere in relative tranquility.
Visit Paris' Only Working Vineyard: Montmartre Vineyard
Less a secret than it used to be but still an interesting hidden gem, Le Clos Montmartre is the only working vineyard in Paris. Set on the slopes of the hill, north of Place du Tertre, the vines were originally planted to defend the area from property development and are owned by the city. Catching a glimpse of the vineyard is a nice respite from Montmartre’s crowds; it’s not open to the general public, but you can book a tour.
Address: Paris, Ile-de-France, France
From $ 13
Monument to the Soviet Army
Standing in Knyazheska Garden in the center of Sofia, the Monument to the Soviet Army was built in 1954 to commemorate the liberation of Bulgaria by the Soviet Army. The monument itself portrays a Soviet Army soldier holding a gun above his head, standing between a Bulgarian man and a Bulgarian woman holding a child. Several hundred feet away from the monument are additional sculptures depicting battle scenes, one of which has become a focal point for vandals who have painted it in protest on several occasions, including the anniversary of the Prague Spring and to show solidarity with the Ukrainian revolution.
The monument and surrounding park are also popular with local skateboarders and a skating half pipe and several quarter pipe ramps can be found around the monument. In recent years, the monument has become quite controversial with various groups calling for its removal.
Practical Info
Knyazheska Garden is located near Orlov Most and Sofia University. To get there, take any bus or trolley to Orlov Most, which is a bridge dividing Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard to the north and Tsarigradsko Shossky to the south. The garden and monument are just north of Orlov Most on the left.
Address: Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd, Sofia, Bulgaria
From $ 49
Monteriggioni
Picturesque Monteriggioni is the quintessential Tuscan village, encircled by medieval walls and perched on a hilltop above a rolling expanse of olive groves and vineyards. Stroll through its postcard-perfect center of cobblestone piazzas, pretty churches, and Renaissance townhouses and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.
The Basics
The fortified village of Monteriggioni was founded in 1214 and formed the northern bastion of the Republic of Siena’s territory, often finding itself on the front line in the power struggle between Siena and its arch rival, Florence. Originally, the outpost served as a garrison for Siena’s soldiers and the main Piazza Roma was the vegetable garden that kept them fed in times of siege; today there is a scattering of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops to keep modern invaders happy. The town’s 13th-century walls incorporate 14 well-preserved towers, so iconic that they were mentioned by Tuscan poet Dante Alighieri in The Divine Comedy.
Monteriggioni is a popular stop on day trips to the Chianti region of Tuscany from Florence, Siena, and Pisa that explore the countryside surrounding San Gimignano, Montecatini, and Volterra; full-day sightseeing tours generally include lunch and a wine tasting of local Brunello di Montalcino wine. You can also explore the area on foot by joining a Tuscany hiking tour, or zip down the country lanes on a scooter during a Vespa tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The rolling hills of Chianti comprise one of the most picturesque corners of Italy, so be sure to bring your camera.
- The town is accessible to wheelchair users, but if your visit is part of a wine tour, wineries may not be. Check in advance.
- Tours of Monteriggioni and the villages of Tuscany require a fair bit of walking. Choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
How to Get There
By car, take the Firenze-Siena highway and exit at Monteriggioni. Arriving by public transportation involves multiple bus connections, so the most convenient way to visit is by joining a small-group or private tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
Monteriggioni hosts a Festa Medievale (medieval festival) in late July, one of the most famous medieval pageants in Italy, with music and dancing, feasting and merrymaking. The Chianti countryside is particularly beautiful in spring and fall, when the fields and vineyards are lush and colorful.
Medieval San Gimignano
San Gimignano is another historic Tuscan village known for its unique skyline of soaring towers and charming medieval center. Like Monteriggioni, San Gimignano is a lovely town to explore on foot, popping into the Collegiata church and local shops, and stopping for a gelato on the main square.
Address: Monteriggioni, Tuscany, Italy
From $ 52
Monument aux Girondins
Located in the very center of Place des Quinconces in Bordeaux, this striking column was elevated in the late 1800s to commemorate the Girondists, a fervent republican political faction consisting of militants originally part of France’s Legislative Assembly, and one of the first group to openly denounce Louis XVI’s reign and the monarchy in general. Their 1793 mass execution, which was caused by their resistance against the rapidly increasing momentum of the revolution, is often considered to be the starting point of the Reign of Terror.
At 54 meters high, the Monument aux Girondins overlooks one of the city’s busiest squares and is adorned with an intricate bronze statue representing Lady Liberty breaking free of her shackles and gracing Bordeaux with her palm of victory. At the base of the column stands a colossal fountain and two basins, with dramatic bronze sculptures of charging horses, each signifying a different aspect of modern French society. The south-facing side honors the “Triumph of the Republic” and focuses on work, security, power, obligatory education and the victory over ignorance, vice and lies, while the north-facing side is dedicated to peace, fraternity, trade, arts and abundance, ultimately representing the “Triumph of the Concord.”
Practical Info
The Monument aux Girondins is located in the historic center of Bordeaux on Place des Quinconces, right by Quai Louis XVII along the Garonne River. It is accessible on foot, by tram via Route B or C (stop Quinconces) or by car. The nearest parking lot is Parking Tourny on Allée de Tourny. Daytime rates (from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) are €2.50 per hour and the nighttime (between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.) flat rate is €3.90.
Address: Monument aux Girondins, Bordeaux, France
From $ 14
Moser Glassworks
Bohemia has long been associated with the making of fine crystal and glassware, and one of its finest exponents is Moser, founded in 1893 and based in the famous, picturesque spa town of Karlovy Vary, 130 km (81.25 miles) west of Prague. Traditionally made according to a secret formula, Moser glass is renowned for its intense, jewel-like colors and is created by hand in the factory – which is open for tours – using eco-friendly lead-free crystal. Glassblowers hand their skills on from generation to generation and in all it takes up to ten years to become expert in hand shaping and blowing the glass while working alongside furnaces heated to 1,200°C. Elegant Moser glassware graces Royal tables and Is used in the making of the awards for the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, held each year in July. Fine examples of the craft, from sapphire-blue flower vases to delicately gilded wine goblets, are beautifully displayed in the new Moser Museum, which offers multimedia accounts of the company’s long history while celebrating more than 120 years of glass-blowing talent. A sales gallery allows visitors to purchase Moser glassware and the café terrace is a pleasant summer spot for coffee and cake amid sparkling crystal sculptures and splashing fountains.
Practical Info
Kpt. Jarose 46/19, Karlovy Vary. Opening hours: museum daily 9am–5pm; glassworks daily 9am–2.30pm. Admission museum: adults CZK 80, students CZK 50, family CZK 180; glassworks adults CZK 120, students CZK 70, family CZK 260; combined ticket adults CZK 180, students CZK 100, family CZK 390. Karlovy Vary is west of Prague and best accessed by car in under two hours along the E48.
Address: Kpt. Jarose 46/19, Karlovy Vary, Western Bohemia, Czech Republic 360 06, Czech Republic
Hours: Museum open daily 9am–5pm; Glassworks open daily 9am–2:30pm
Admission: Adults: CZK 80; Students: CZK 50; Family: CZK 180
From $ 60
Morske Orgulje (Sea Organ)
On your visit to the coastal Croatian city of Zadar, follow the sound of music to find your way to what is arguably the city’s most popular sight. And it’s not just any music, but rather ocean-made melodies produced by a sea organ, or morske orgulje. The massive underground instrument is composed of 35 organ pipes, which play musical chords prompted by wind and waves from the sea. The result is a haunting harmony of tunes that lures visitors to the coast to commune a bit with nature.
The wave-played instrument was opened in 2005, and was created to give new life to this stretch of peninsular coastline, which had fallen into a rather unloved state after the Second World War. Now locals and out-of-towners alike flock to the harmonic marble steps — where the sounds are pushed through the stone surface via holes — to watch one of the best sunsets around, and while listening to a soundtrack produced by nature itself.
Practical Info
The Sea Organ is located at the far western end of Zadar’s peninsula. It’s a popular destination during sunset, so get there early to claim your perfect spot. Once the sun goes down, squeeze in yet another sensory experience by heading to the tip of the peninsula, just beyond the organ, to check out the lit-up solar panels.
Address: Obala Petra Krešimira IV, Zadar, Zadar, Croatia 23000, Croatia
From $ 35
Montserrat
Located about 30 miles (50 km) northwest of Barcelona is Montserrat, the 'Serrated Mountain.' This unique rock formation, sawed and sculpted by thousands of years of wind and rain, is most famously home to a Benedictine monastery, an important Catholic pilgrimage spot thanks to its 12th-century wooden statue of La Moreneta (The Black Madonna), Catalonia's patron saint. Aside from its religious and cultural importance, the mountain also boasts unbeatable views from its peaks.
The Basics
Montserrat is one of the most popular full- or half-day trips from Barcelona. Located mid-cliff, the monastery is reachable via cog railroad or cable car, and from there, visitors are free to explore the monastery grounds, hike the numerous trails winding up and around Montserrat mountain, or ride two funiculars to a scenic lookout or a holy cave believed to be the spot of a miraculous sighting of the Virgin Mary. Montserrat's location in Spain's cava-producing region means many travelers combine a visit with a tour and tasting at one of the several nearby wineries.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Choose a half-day Montserrat tour or a full-day excursion with a stop at a cava winery for wine tasting.
- Trips last anywhere from four to 10 hours, depending on the option you choose.
- Montserrat Monastery is wheelchair accessible, as is the cog railway leading there. Other parts of the mountain, including the funiculars, are not accessible.
- Bring layers, as Montserrat is cooler than nearby Barcelona.
- Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, especially if you plan to make use of the trail network.
How to Get to Montserrat
The easiest way to get to Montserrat is with a guided, small-group tour that includes round-trip transportation from Barcelona. Independent travelers can reach Montserrat by catching the R5 train from Plaça d'Espanya station. Those wishing to take the cable car should get off at Montserrat-Aeri, while those taking the cog railway should get off at Monistrol de Montserrat. The journey from Barcelona takes about 90 minutes one way.
When to Get There
Montserrat is open throughout the year, but it can get very busy in summer, particularly in July and August. This time of year also brings the hottest temperatures—expect highs in the upper 80s. On a clear day, the monastery affords panoramic views, so it’s a good idea to check the weather and visit on a sunny, cloudless day.
Hear the Boys Choir of Montserrat
Santa Maria de Montserrat is home of the famous L'Escolania choir, a boys choir of altos and sopranos who perform in the Basilica of Montserrat each day. The midday performance by one of the oldest boys choirs in Europe has become one of the most popular activities at the monastery, with seats filling up well before the singing begins.
Address: Bages, Catalonia, Spain
Hours: Daily 8am-10:30am and 12pm-6:30pm
Admission: Free
From $ 18
Monterosso al Mare
The biggest and most visited of the five villages comprising Italy’s famed Cinque Terre, Monterosso al Mare draws sunseekers to its sandy beach and scenic seafront promenade. The town’s comparatively flat terrain makes its two halves—the historic Old Town and the modern center—easy to get around on foot, while the surrounding hills abound with dreamy lookouts and medieval monuments.
The Basics
Monterosso al Mare makes a good base for sailing and boat tours along the Italian Riviera, as well as for hiking in Cinque Terre National Park, which encompasses all five Cinque Terre towns. Day tours to Monterosso al Mare run from La Spezia, Florence, and Milan, and typically include visits to the neighboring Cinque Terre villages of Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola, plus a stop in nearby Portovenere.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Monterosso al Mare can get busy in peak summer season, so book tours and accommodations in advance.
- Bring comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as roads in the other villages—and the trails between them—can be steep and uneven.
- Monterosso al Mare is the most wheelchair and stroller accessible of all the Cinque Terre villages, and is reached by a long seafront promenade.
How to Get There
Located at the northern edge of Cinque Terre National Park along the Italian Riviera, Monterosso al Mare is a 2.5-hour drive from Florence or a 50-minute drive from La Spezia. Monterosso is easily accessible by car, but it’s most convenient to arrive by train from La Spezia (a 30-minute ride). Alternatively, from mid-April through October, ferries connect Monterosso al Mare with La Spezia, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Manarola.
When to Get There
The Cinque Terre see the most visitors and the 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 rise. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in inclement weather. Year-round, overnight guests can enjoy relatively quiet evenings once the day-trippers have filed out.
Monterosso al Mare’s Landmarks and Monuments
Take a short break from the beach to explore Monterosso’s historic center, home to the 13th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista and the 16th-century Oratory of Confraternita dei Neri. Continue to the waterfront to take in the views from the medieval Aurora Tower, pose for photos by the 1910 Il Gigante (Giant) statue, then climb San Cristoforo hill to admire the historic and artistic Capuchin convent and the Church of San Francesco.
Address: Montrerosso al Mare, Italy
From $ 139