Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Old Pinakothek (Alte Pinakothek)
An art museum in the Kunstareal district, the Old Pinakothek, or Alte Pinakothek, is one of the oldest galleries in the world. It houses famous collections of the old master paintings from the 14th through 18th centuries. More then 800 works from the premier European painters, German, Italian, and Dutch alike, are all on display in the galleries. One gallery was specifically designed to showcase Rubens's masterpiece, Last Judgment - one of the largest canvases ever painted.
Explore the development of painting from the Middle Ages to the Rococo era, compare artistic styles, or simply admire the masterpieces at the Alte Pinakothek. This museum boasts quite an impressive list of artists under its roof, from Dürer to Raphael, Botticelli to Titian, and Rembrandt to Velasquez, the Alte Pinakothek could have an art history book devoted entirely to its vast collection.
Practical Info
In addition to the custom room for the epic 6 meter (about 20 feet) high Last Judgement by Rubens, the Dürersaal room houses Dürer's Christlike Self-Portrait and the humble looking The Four Apostles. The collection of historic masterpieces in the Alte Pinakothek mirror the eclectic tastes of the Wittelsbach rulers over the centuries and is one of the most comprehensive collections in a museum today.
Address: Barer Straße 27, Munich 80333, Germany
Hours: Wed - Sun 10am - 6pm, Tues 10am - 8pm. Closed Mondays and holidays
Admission: € 7, Sunday admission: € 1
From $ 13
Oltrarno
The historic and happening Oltrarno, which sits on the opposite side of the Arno River from the Duomo, the Uffizi, and the Accademia, is one of Florence’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Home to the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, the quarter is also known for its artisan workshops, restaurants and wine bars, and nightlife.
The Basics
In addition to the Medici’s magnificent Palazzo Pitti, there are a number of other important sights in the Oltrarno, including Brunelleschi’s Santo Spirito Basilica and the church of Santa Maria del Carmine (home to the Brancacci Chapel, frescoed by Filippino Lippi). One of the most memorable views in Florence is from Piazzale Michelangelo, a scenic square set in the hills above this bustling neighborhood, where crowds gather each evening to watch the sunset.
The best way to enjoy both the culture and cuisine of the Oltrarno is by joining a walking tour that explores its attractions and culinary scene. Many tours of the Oltrarno include highlights paired with food or wine tastings, often scheduled for sunset to enjoy the view over Florence. Another interesting option is a private tour that visits the neighborhood’s artisans and workshops, where you can learn about the local handicrafts firsthand.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Walking tours of the Oltrarno are mostly outdoors, so be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat in summer.
- You will be doing a considerable amount of walking to explore the neighborhood, so choose comfortable footwear.
- Churches require modest attire that covers knees and shoulders.
- Some churches and monuments in the Oltrarno are not accessible to wheelchairs, and much of the historic center is paved with cobblestones.
How to Get There
The Oltrarno is located just across the Arno River from the Uffizi Gallery; to reach this historic neighborhood, simply walk across the famous Ponte Vecchio.
When to Get There
Florence is one of the most visited cities in Italy, and even the quiet Oltrarno can be crowded in the high-season summer months. Plan your tour for the spring or fall, when the weather is mild but the streets are less overrun.
Piazzale Michelangelo: The Best View in Florence
Piazzale Michelangelo, set on a hillside in the Oltrarno, is the most famous scenic overlook in Florence, offering sweeping views over the city’s rooftops. From this 19th-century square, the panorama stretches from the Ponte Vecchio to the tower of the Palazzo Vecchio, across the Duomo and bell tower, and to the Tuscan hills beyond.
Address: Italy
From $ 16
Old Synagogue (Stara Synagoga)
Built during the fifteenth century blending German and Bohemian Gothic architectural styles, the Old Synagogue (Stara Synagoga) is the oldest surviving synagogue in Poland. The structure was rebuilt in 1570 by Italian architect Mateo Gucci, who added a Renaissance aesthetic, and was subsequently renovated several times throughout the early twentieth century. During World War II, Germans took over the building and used it as a warehouse, during which time the furnishings and the ceiling were destroyed.
Today, the reconstructed synagogue houses a Jewish history and culture museum; the collection includes Jewish ceremonial items, Ark curtains, Torah adornments and holiday costumes and craft items, as well as a permanent exhibit on family and private life.
Practical Info
An English audio guide with descriptions of some of the collection’s most fascinating objects is available at the ticket desk for an additional fee.
Address: 24 Szeroka Street, Krakow, Poland
Hours: Monday - 10am to 2pm; Tuesday to Sunday - 9am to 5pm
Admission: zł 10
From $ 3
Old Town (Parte Vieja)
Lying between El Muelle harbor and the River Urumea, San Sebastian’s Old Town has its origins in medieval times although it was largely rebuilt following the large-scale destruction of the city by fire in 1813.
By day the Old Town is a maze of charismatic alleys and clusters of townhouses hosting the city’s chaotic daily Pescadería (fish market). The Municipal Museum San Telmo, the fine Gothic church of St Vincente and the Baroque basilica of Santa María del Coro are also found here, and much of the incessant action centers around the dynamic Plaza de la Constitución. This arcaded and balconied square was once a bullring and by night it buzzes with laughter and chatter from the numerous crowded bars and restaurants; this is the best place to sample pintxos, the famous Basque-country tapas of bite-size snacks on bread with typical toppings including peppers, tortilla, garlic prawns or cod.
Practical Info
San Sebastian’s Old Town is always accessible, and its restaurants and bars stay open late into the night.
Address: San Sebastian, Spain
From $ 32
Old Trafford
Old Trafford Stadium, also known as the Manchester United Football Ground, has been home to Manchester United F.C. since 1910. With a capacity of more than 75,000, it is the second largest football stadium in the United Kingdom after Wembley Stadium and the ninth largest in all of Europe. The stadium was used by American soldiers to play baseball during World War I and was used as a depot by the military in World War II, sustaining significant damage from German bombings.
The pitch is surrounded by four stands, each with two tiers, except for the South, which has only one. The Alex Ferguson Stand, named for the longest-serving manager in Manchester United history, is where visitors will find the museum, trophy room and the Red Café. The South Stand is where the VIPs tend to be found and the West Stand is traditionally where the most diehard fans congregate.
In addition to Manchester United matches, Old Trafford has hosted FA Cup semi-finals, matches at the 1966 World Cup, the 2003 Champions League Final, the rugby league’s annual Super League Grand Final and the final of two Rugby League World Cups. It also hosted football matches during the London Summer Olympics, including the first international women’s football matches to be played at the stadium.
Practical Info
Old Trafford is located outside of the Manchester city center, about a half mile from the Old Trafford Cricket Ground. Adjacent to the South Stand is the Manchester United Football Ground railway station, which is only open on match days. Visitors can also reach the stadium by the Metrolink tram, stopping at either the Exchange Quay or Old Trafford stops. Buses 255, 256, 263 and X50 also run to the stadium, with bus 255 providing extra service on match days. Tours of the stadium are available on non-match days between 9:40 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. A basic tour costs 18 pounds and includes access to the museum. A number of other uniquely themed tours are also available.
Address: Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester, England
Admission: Tour/Museum £18
From $ 17
Old National Gallery (Alte Nationalgalerie)
The Old National Gallery (Alte Nationalgalerie) is the third-oldest museum on Berlin’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed Museum Island (Museumsinsel). Its collection showcases 19th-century artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Rodin. The interior of the neoclassicist building are influenced by Prussian classicism thanks to King Frederick William IV.
The Basics
The Old National Gallery, one of five museums on Museum Island, houses one of Europe’s largest collections of 19th-century art—with more than 1,800 paintings and 1,500 sculptures. Though much of the museum was destroyed during World War II, it was later repaired by both the communist and democratic regimes in the following decades.
Many tours in Berlin explore Museum Island with options to go inside the gallery. If visiting independently, combine the Old National Gallery and other UNESCO-listed Museumsinsel sights with a 3-day Museum Pass. Alternatively, a 2- or 3-day Berlin Pass includes admission to the gallery and more than 50 other city attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Art lovers must not miss the Alte Nationalgalerie.
- There is a free cloakroom for storing personal items as well as those not permitted in the museum, including large bags and backpacks, tripods, and umbrellas.
- Visitors under the age of 18 receive free admission.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Old National Gallery is located in Berlin Mitte on Museum Island. There is no parking available so take the S-Bahn to Hackescher Markt, or tram M1 or 12 to Georgenstr./Am Kupfergraben.
When to Get There
The Alte Nationalgalerie is open from 10am to 6pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and until 8pm on Thursday (when there are fewer visitors); check the website for holiday hours. It is advised to visit the museum outside of the summer months when Berlin is less crowded.
Famous Artworks in the Alte Nationalgalerie
The Old National Gallery vast collection of 19th-century artworks features numerous masterpieces. Significant paintings on display include The Balcony Room and Iron Rolling Mill by Adolph Menzel, In Summer by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Monk by the Sea by German artist Caspar David Friedrich. Don’t-miss sculptures include those of Princesses Luise and Friederike of Prussia as well as Friedrich Wilhelm IV.
Address: Bodestraße 1-3, Berlin 10178, Germany
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Old Town of Monaco
Discover the old town, Monaco-Ville, "le rocher" or "the rock" - a veritable open air museum as you wander through narrow alleyways from the Middle Ages. Explore the picturesque Place Saint Nicolas, Placette Bosio, the Chapel of Mercy, Palais de Justice and remains of ancient city walls on this magnificent rocky promontory perched above the Mediterranean Sea.
Visit the Place du Palais, to see the colourful changing of the guard in front of the Princely Palace, every day at 11:55am. The Museum of Napoleonic Souvenirs and Collections of the Historical Archives of the Palace housed in the southern wing contains a rich collection of objects and documents about the First Empire, some of which belonged to Emperor Napoleon I. Next door is the Cathedrale de Monaco, Romanesque-Byzantine burial place of past sovereigns, including Prince Rainier and Princess Grace.
Gaze at an exceptional panorama while strolling toward the Saint Martin Gardens surrounding the world famous Oceanographic Museum, built in 1910 by Prince Albert I. Dedicated to marine sciences, the museum was for a long time managed by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, and houses the all new shark lagoon with hammerhead sharks and stingrays swimming in front of a coral reef, populated with a multitude of tropical fish and living corals.
On the parking terraces of the Chemin des Pecheurs, Monte-Carlo story presents "Monaco the Film" which explores the origins, history and future of the Principality. The Museum of the Chapel of Visitation is part of a Baroque style 17th century chapel with a remarkable collection of sacred art works by Rubens, Zurbaran, Ribera and masters of the Italian Baroque. Chapelle de la Misericorde (1639) is the famous starting point for the torch lit Good Friday religious procession.
Visit the Place du Palais, to see the colourful changing of the guard in front of the Princely Palace, every day at 11:55am. The Museum of Napoleonic Souvenirs and Collections of the Historical Archives of the Palace housed in the southern wing contains a rich collection of objects and documents about the First Empire, some of which belonged to Emperor Napoleon I. Next door is the Cathedrale de Monaco, Romanesque-Byzantine burial place of past sovereigns, including Prince Rainier and Princess Grace.
Gaze at an exceptional panorama while strolling toward the Saint Martin Gardens surrounding the world famous Oceanographic Museum, built in 1910 by Prince Albert I. Dedicated to marine sciences, the museum was for a long time managed by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, and houses the all new shark lagoon with hammerhead sharks and stingrays swimming in front of a coral reef, populated with a multitude of tropical fish and living corals.
On the parking terraces of the Chemin des Pecheurs, Monte-Carlo story presents "Monaco the Film" which explores the origins, history and future of the Principality. The Museum of the Chapel of Visitation is part of a Baroque style 17th century chapel with a remarkable collection of sacred art works by Rubens, Zurbaran, Ribera and masters of the Italian Baroque. Chapelle de la Misericorde (1639) is the famous starting point for the torch lit Good Friday religious procession.
There are five bus routes in Monaco, all operated by Cie des Autobus de Monaco (CAM). There are 143 bus stops through the Principality.
Address: The Rock of Monaco, 98000, Monaco
From $ 68
Old Royal Naval College
The grand focal point of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Royal Naval College (ORNC) is an impressive architectural feat, stretching along the banks of the River Thames. Originally designed as a Royal Naval Hospital, the ORNC was the work of legendary architect Sir Christopher Wren (whose other masterpieces include St Paul’s Cathedral) and was built on the site of the Greenwich Palace, the birthplace of Henry VIII.
The magnificent classical buildings, with their twin domes, striking colonnaded façade and vast lawns now serve as the dramatic centerpiece of Greenwich and offer a fascinating introduction to the neighborhood for visitors. Highlights of a visit include the Discover Greenwich Visitor Centre, where exhibitions are devoted to the ORNC and Greenwich’s maritime heritage; Sir James Thornhill’s spectacular Painted Hall; and the neo-classical style Chapel of St Peter and St Paul. Throughout the year, the ORNC also hosts a number of music performances, exhibitions, workshops and special events.
Practical Info
The Old Royal Naval College is located on the south bank of the River Thames in Greenwich, South London, a short walk from the Cutty Sark. The venue is open daily from 10am and 5pm and is free to enter, although ticket costs may apply for exhibitions, performances and workshops. Free 45-minute guided walking tours are held from Mon to Fri at 1.30pm and 3pm, or Sat and Sun at 11am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 3pm.
Address: King William Walk, London SE10 9NN, England
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
From $ 18
Old Venetian Harbor
Chania’s spectacular Venetian Harbour is a symbol of the town’s rich and varied history, built between 1320 and 1356 when it was first under control of the Republic of Venice. Made of butter-colored stone and with its walls stretching for just under a mile (1.5 km), it provided sheltered waters and safe anchorage and was originally a thriving trading port with berthing room for up to 40 galleys. A breakwater was constructed to the north of the harbor to protect the ships from storm damage, and on this St Nicholas Chapel and bastion were built. During Venetian times condemned criminals were executed on this spot. The Firkas Fortress (now the Maritime Museum of Crete) at the entrance to the harbor was built with the dual purpose of safeguarding Chania from invasion and housing Venetian troops.
However the most striking of the edifices along the Venetian Harbour is the lighthouse (no public access), which dates from around 1570 and looms majestically skywards at the harbor entrance to this day. It is Chania’s most-photographed monument and was restored to its original splendor in the 1840s; the lighthouse is magical when illuminated at night.
Today, the Venetian Harbour offers mooring for local fishing boats and pleasure craft; in summer it is a romantic spot to stroll and then enjoy eating and drinking in the many harbor-side restaurants, tavernas and ouzo shops. Even in winter, it’s usually warm enough to sit outside in a café while sipping coffee and enjoying the Cretan sun.
Practical Info
Best accessed on foot. Chania can be reached by daily ferry from Piraeus in Athens, and by plane via Chania International Airport, which is 9 miles (14 km) from the town center.
Address: Eleftherios Venizelos Square, Chania, Crete, Greece
Hours: 24/7
From $ 19
Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)
The pastel-hued façade of Vienna’s Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) may pale in comparison to the dramatic neo-gothic towers of the modern City Hall, but the former administrative center is still a charming reminder of medieval Vienna. Although first built in the 13th century, the majority of the present-day building stems from its 18th-century baroque redesign, featuring details like the striking Renaissance portico and the monumental Andromeda Fountain by Georg Raphael Donners.
The Old Town Hall housed the magistrate of Vienna until 1885, but today is home to the Museum of the Austrian Resistance Movement, a museum devoted to the Austrian resistance against the Nazis. One of the city’s most intriguing museums, the fascinating exhibitions include photographs, original documents and personal reports, detailing the work of Austrian resistance fighters and the victims of the Nazi regime.
The Old Town Hall housed the magistrate of Vienna until 1885, but today is home to the Museum of the Austrian Resistance Movement, a museum devoted to the Austrian resistance against the Nazis. One of the city’s most intriguing museums, the fascinating exhibitions include photographs, original documents and personal reports, detailing the work of Austrian resistance fighters and the victims of the Nazi regime.
Address: Wipplingerstraße 6-8, Vienna 1010, Austria
From $ 61
Old Orhei Archaeological Complex
Moldova’s most important archaeological site and ecclesiastical complex is found about 12.5 miles (20 km) southeast of the modern city of Orhei and follows a pronounced meander in the Răut River. The complex is close enough to the capital city of Chişinău to make a fascinating day trip through time as it forms an open-air history book dating right from the Dacian early settlers around the 4th century BC through the Middle Ages and almost to modern day.
Stretching over 220 hectares of untamed river valley, the complex counts ancient Dacian fortifications, medieval earthworks, the remains of Turkish wash houses, caves dug into the soft limestone rock and Orthodox monasteries among its manifold attractions. There’s a small exhibition center near the rural village of Trebujeni that sells a guide to the marvels of Old Orhei (40 lei) as well as an ethnographic museum in nearby Butuceni.
Orthodox monks built the cave monastery into the valley’s limestone ridge in the 13th century and all that is visible from the outside is a bell tower and stone cross. Although it was abandoned in the 18th century, a few monks returned in 1996 and the monastery is slowly being brought back into use; its jewel-like stone interior is once more covered in icons and frescoes. In the same year services resumed at the Orthodox church that stands high on the ridge; this was built in 1905 but was closed down under Soviet rule before Moldova threw off the shackles of Communism in 1989.
Practical Info
Butuceni, Orhei. Open Tue–Sun 10am–6pm. Trebujeni Exhibition Centre: adults 10 lei; concessions 5 lei. Butuceni Ethnographic Museum: xxxx. Old Orhei Archaeological Complex: xxx. Old Orhei is 40 miles (60 km) northeast of Chişinău and accessed by car along the M2, although five buses per day leave the city for Trebujeni. Cover shoulders and legs when visiting the monastery; women must also cover their hair.
Address: Butuceni, Orhei MD-3502, Moldova
Hours: Tue–Sun 10am–6pm
Admission: Pricing TBD
From $ 138
Oller del Mas
There are numerous options for wine tasting trips from Barcelona but few offer such a unique backdrop as Oller del Mas, a 10th century castle set in a scenic 1000-acre estate. A popular detour for those visiting the Benedictine Santa Maria de Montserrat abbey on the nearby Montserrat mountain, Oller del Mas offers an atmospheric setting for a wine tasting session, effortlessly combining Catalonian culture, history and gastronomy.
Whether you stop by for a quick tasting session, take a half-day tour of the winery or couple your wines with a leisurely lunch of traditional cuisine, there’s something to please every type of wine lover at Oller del Mas. Those with a real enthusiasm for wine can learn the secrets winemaking from harvest to glass, strolling around the picturesque vineyards, the production plants and the wine cellars, and witnessing the winery’s popular Bernat Oller and Arnau Oller wines being produced.
Of course, tasting the wines is the focal point of the experience and the winery offers a varied selection of regional wines to sample, with the winemakers on hand to explain the significance of each glass. If you’ve got time, there’s no reason to end the visit there – the surrounding vineyards make an idyllic spot for a post-lunch walk and there’s even a public golf course on site.
Whether you stop by for a quick tasting session, take a half-day tour of the winery or couple your wines with a leisurely lunch of traditional cuisine, there’s something to please every type of wine lover at Oller del Mas. Those with a real enthusiasm for wine can learn the secrets winemaking from harvest to glass, strolling around the picturesque vineyards, the production plants and the wine cellars, and witnessing the winery’s popular Bernat Oller and Arnau Oller wines being produced.
Of course, tasting the wines is the focal point of the experience and the winery offers a varied selection of regional wines to sample, with the winemakers on hand to explain the significance of each glass. If you’ve got time, there’s no reason to end the visit there – the surrounding vineyards make an idyllic spot for a post-lunch walk and there’s even a public golf course on site.
Address: Ctra. de Igualada, Km 3,4, Barcelona, Manresa 08240, Spain
Admission: Contact the winery for details
From $ 78
Old Sachsenhausen
Stretching along the south bank of the Main River, the old quarter of Sachsenhausen is one of Frankfurt’s most atmospheric districts, with its cobblestone streets and historic taverns standing in sharp contrast to the high-rise landscape of modern Frankfurt. Linked to the central Römerberg square by the iconic Eiserner Steg (the Iron Footbridge), Old Sachsenhausen is best know for its famous Museumsufer, a collection of over a dozen world-class museums housed in a series of elegant 18th-century villas along the embankment.
Sachsenhausen’s second claim to fame is its Apfelwein, the sweet apple wine or cider that’s served in the dozens of traditional Ebbelwoi bars and pubs clustered around the Rittergasse pedestrian area, many housed in medieval-style half-timbered buildings and featuring summer Apple wine gardens. Stick around into the evening hours and you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained along the main Schweizer street too, home to some of Frankfurt’s most unique nightlife.
Address: Frankfurt, Germany
From $ 11
Old Slate Quarry
The Old Slate Quarry is located a short distance from Knightstown on Valentia Island. The quarry was opened in 1816 by the Knights of Kerry and supplied slate to such prestigious places as London’s Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, as well as the San Salvador railway station in South America.
The quarry operated for almost 100 years, employing as many as 400 workers at its peak, and was finally closed as a result of a rock fall at the mouth of the quarry in 1911. It reopened again in the late 1990s and is currently back in operation, with quality slate products being produced by six members of staff.
The site is also home to a huge natural grotto that was built into the mined quarry. Today, this is a popular spot for visitors who want to take advantage of the peaceful setting and dramatic panoramic views out to sea.
Practical Info
The Old Slate Quarry is located on Valentia Island, just of the Ring of Kerry route. For the best views on the approach, leave the car at the crossroads leading to the island’s lighthouse and follow the winding road through the Glanleam woods.
Address: Knightstown, Valentia Island, County Kerry, Ireland
From $ 81
Old Opera House (Alte Oper)
Inaugurated in 1880 Frankfurt’s Old Opera House (Alte Oper) was among Germany’s elite opera houses during its 20th-century heyday, but by 1951 the building had been badly damaged by fire and a new Opera house had sprung up to take its place. Further damage was sustained throughout the war years and it wasn’t until 1981 that the Old Opera House, saved from demolition by a public petition, was reconstructed and reopened.
With its exteriors and entrance hall restored to reflect the Renaissance design of original architect Richard Lucae, the Old Opera House is now serving out its days as a magnificent concert hall and congress center. After being fated with the post-war nickname of ‘Germany’s most beautiful ruin’, the modern Alte Oper complex is now one of the city’s leading concert venues, hosting around 300 classical and popular music events throughout the year and drawing many additional visitors to its atmospheric onsite café.
Address: Konzert- und Kongresszentrum GmbH Opernplatz, Frankfurt 60313, Germany
From $ 20
Old Town Tbilisi
This historic capital city in the heart of Georgia has been built and rebuilt dozens of times—yet the cobblestone streets of its famed Old Town neighborhood have somehow remained untouched. Travelers can wander the back alleyways passed picture-perfect balconies, through winding streets the loop past ancient churches and tiny shops in what feels almost like a walk through time.
Art lovers will enjoy Tiflis Avenue, where galleries line Old Town streets like King Erekle II. Exhibitions take place on a rolling basis in this part of the neighborhood that’s known for its large collection of contemporary Georgian art. Two of the city’s oldest churches, famed sulfur baths, and incredible views of Narikala Fortress and Mtsasminda are also a part of life in Old Town. Those looking for a bit of nightlife can tuck into a table at the hip Kala café and restaurant—an Old Town staple—for an evening of life jazz and a delicious, traditional Georgian meal.
Practical Info
Old Town Tbilisi is easy to navigate on foot, but the metro, bus and cable car offer alternatives for travelers who prefer to be on the move. Metro tickets are .5 Lari per ride. Minibuses also offer stops just about everywhere on main roads for .8 Lari.
Address: Tbilisi, Georgia
From $ 20
Old-New Synagogue (Staronova Synagoga)
The Jewish ghetto in Prague grew up in Josefov around the Old-New Synagogue, which was in use as early as 1270. It has the distinction of being oldest functioning synagogue in Europe – for over 700 years services were only halted during Nazi occupation between 1942–45 – and today it is once more the heart of Jewish worship in the city. A Gothic oddity, the whitewashed synagogue is topped with brick gables and its interior is starkly simple and little changed since the 13th century, with one prayer hall for the men and an adjoining gallery for women, who originally were only allowed to witness services from behind a glass screen. An elaborate wrought-iron grill encases the pulpit and the Torah scrolls are contained in a plain Ark on one wall. Apart from a couple of chandeliers, the only embellishment is a tattered red flag bearing the Star of David hanging from the ceiling, given as a gesture of respect to the Jewish community by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1357; the red banner close by was a gift from Ferdinand III in thanks for Jewish help in repulsing a Swedish invasion in 1648. Down the centuries the building has survived fires, pogroms and sieges, giving rise to the legend that is protected by angels.
Practical Info
Cervená 2. Open Apr–Oct Sun–Thur 9am-6pm, Fri 9am– until an hour before the Sabbath starts. Nov–Mar Sun–Thur 9am-5pm, Fri 9am–until an hour before the Sabbath starts. Closed Sat and Jewish holidays. Admission adults 200 CZK; students & children aged 5–15 140 CZK. Yarmulkes are handed out at the entrance for men to cover their heads. The Old-New synagogue is easily accessible on foot from Prague’s pedestrianized Old Town.
Address: Cervená 2, Prague, Czech Republic
Hours: Hours vary, closed Saturdays and Jewish holidays
Admission: Adults: 200 CZK
From $ 14
Old Sigulda Castle
Dating back to the 13th century, Old Sigulda Castle was originally built by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, a military order comprised of German “warrior monks.” The first stone fortification built in Latvia outside of Riga, it was designed to monitor the Gauja River running below the castle and to protect from the threat of invasion. The original castle building was rectangular shaped and made of dolomite blocks three meters thick, a small part of which still remains. In later years, a square shaped central column with an inner courtyard surrounded by three buildings was added. A three story high section of the central building remains today. In the 19th century, the ruins were fortified and two pseudo-gothic arches were added, together with a front gate.
Over the centuries, the castle changed hands numerous times and went through several stages of repair and restoration. It was reopened to visitors in 2012 and today it is possible to climb the North Tower and the Main Gate Tower. In the summer, the castle hosts performances and visitors can try their hands at archery.
Practical Info
The Old Castle is next to the New Castle in the town of Sigulda, not far outside of Riga. By train, the ride is about an hour and 15 minutes and costs less than five Euro roundtrip. By bus, it also takes about an hour and 15 minutes and costs 4-6 Euro roundtrip. The castle is a short walk or taxi ride from the main bus station.
Address: Siguldas pilsēta, Sigulda, Latvia
Hours: May to September, daily 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; October, Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday; November to April, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Admission: 1.50 Euro
From $ 65
Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex
The Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex in Kiev is the premier sports venue in Ukraine and the second largest in eastern Europe. Located on Cherepanov Hill in Kiev, the complex’s history dates back to 1923 when it was known as the Red Stadium of Trotsky. Originally designed with an eye toward hosting the Olympic Games, the complex underwent extensive renovations prior to Ukraine hosting the final of Euro 2012. The renovation added a roof over the seating areas, a new press box and luxury boxes and a 13-story Sheraton Kiev Olimpskiy Hotel. With a seating capacity of more than 70,000 the complex regularly hosts major football matches and has hosted concerts by international stars such as Shakira, George Michael, Madonna and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Tours of the complex include the changing rooms of the FC Dynamo Kiev football team, the players’ tunnel, the stadium bowl and the second tier of the stadium, which offers great views of the surrounding area.
Practical Info
The complex stands on the right bank of the Dnipro River in Kiev and can be reached by either Velyka Vasylkivska Street or Lesi Ukrainki Boulevard, although the main arena can only be reached through several smaller streets such as Fizkultury, Saksahanskoho, Shota Rustaveli, Esplanadna Streets and Hospitalny Lane. It is within walking distance of the Olimpiiska and Palats Sportu Metro stations, although they are sometimes closed during matches. Other nearby stations include Kovska, Zoloti Vorota, Tetralna and Palats Ukrayina.
Address: Velyka Vasylkivska St, 55, Kiev, Ukraine
Hours: Tours daily at 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm, except on match days.
Admission: 25 UAH for tours
From $ 23
Old Town Hall (Stara Radnica)
Stara Radnica is the Old Town Hall in the center of Bratislava, Slovakia. It is in the city's Old Town, and aside from serving as the town hall from the 15th through the 19th centuries, it was also used as a prison, a mint, an arsenal depository, a municipal archive, and it was a place of trade and celebrations. It is the country's oldest town hall building and one of the oldest stone buildings still standing in Bratislava. The building has gone through several renovations giving it characteristics of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neo-Renaissance styles. Today it serves as the Bratislava City Museum.
Visitors can see displays in the museum that tell of the city's history starting with the Middle Ages and the feudal justice system. Items include torture instruments, dungeons, antique weapons, armor, paintings, and much more. You can also climb the tower to reach the viewing platform at the top where you'll be rewarded with great views of the main square and city.
Practical Info
Old Town Hall is located on Hlavne Namestie, the main square, a little over a mile south of the main train station. The closest transport stop is Namestie SNP and can be reached using bus X13 from the main train station. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturday to Sunday 11am to 6pm. Admission is 1 euro to climb the tower and 5 euros to visit the museum.
Address: Hlavne Namestie, Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia 81101, Slovakia
Hours: Tues-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-6pm
Admission: 1 euro to climb the tower, 5 euros to visit the museum
From $ 25