Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania
Despite being ravaged by eruptions of the neighboring Mt Etna volcano at least 17 times since its founding, traces of Catania’s long Greek and Roman history still remain, most notably the Roman theaters of the Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania. Dating back as early as the 2nd century AD, the remarkably preserved ruins can be found right at the center of the modern city, in striking contrast to the medieval Castello Ursino and the elegant Baroque masterpieces that stand nearby.
The Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania is home to three main structures, most notably the Teatro Romano (Roman Theater), once an opulent 7,000-seat theater constructed with a blend of marble and black lava stones, and the ancient amphitheater, once the largest of its kind in Sicily and seating up to 15,000. Additional highlights include a series of Roman baths and the smaller, but none-the-less impressive Odeon theater.
Practical Info
The Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania is located in central Catania, just north of Castello Ursino and is open daily from 9am-7pm. Adult admission is €6.
Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele II 266, Catania, Italy
Admission: €6
From $ 115
Paphos Archaeological Park
A sprawling open-air museum stretching along the coastal cliffs west of Paphos harbor, the UNESCO-listed Paphos Archaeological Park is home to some of Cyprus’ most impressive historic ruins, including monuments dating from prehistoric times.
The majority of the ruins date back to the late Roman period, with highlights including the Asklipion, a hospital and temple dedicated to the God of Medicine, Asklipios; the 2nd century Agora; the remains of Saranta Kolones, a Byzantine castle known for its 40 columns; and the ancient Odeon amphitheater, which still hosts theatric and music performances during the summer months. Most memorable are the series of four Roman Villas, namely the House of Theseus, House of Aion, House of Dionysos, House of Orpheus, which are famous for their exquisite floor mosaics, impressively restored and depicting scenes from Greek and Roman mythology.
Practical Info
Paphos Archaeological Park is located in Paphos on the west coast of Cyprus and is open daily from 8am to 5pm in winter or 7:30pm in summer. Adult admission is €4.50.
Address: Paphos, Cyprus
Hours: Daily from 8am to 5pm in winter or 7:30pm in summer.
Admission: Adult admission is €4.50
From $ 68
Paris Aquarium (Aquarium de Paris)
Also known as Cinéaqua, the Paris Aquarium is one of the three aquariums in the city and is technically the oldest aquarium in the world, having opened its doors in 1867. The aquarium’s décor is largely inspired by French writer Jules Vernes’ novel, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, a theme that truly sets the tone for discovery.
It now houses 10,000 different animal and invertebrates of 500 species (including rays, unicorn fish, angelfish, hermit crabs, puffer fish and fairy basslet) as well as 9,000 plant specimens and 600 corals, located in 43 basins spread over 3500 square meters! Marine wildlife comes from all corners of the world, from the Atlantic Ocean to Polynesia and New Caledonia.
The big-ticket attraction is undoubtedly the shark basin, which contains 3 million liters of water and 38 sharks of seven different species. It is, in fact, the largest artificial basin in France. Most of the attractions are kids-oriented, and the aquarium offers several educational animations, workshops and shows throughout the day.
Practical Info
The Paris Aquarium is located at Trocadéro, right across the Eiffel Tower. It is easily accessible by metro, with stops Trocadéro and Iéna close by. Entry costs €20.50 per adult and €13 per children for a day-time visit and € 27.90 per adult and €22.90 per child for a night-time visit. The aquarium is open daily (except July 14th) from 10AM and 7PM.
Address: 5 Avenue Albert de Mun, Paris, France
Hours: Daily 10am-7pm
Admission: €13-€27.90
From $ 24
Parade Square (Paradeplatz)
Zürich’s Parade Square, better known as Paradeplatz, is located right outside of the main train station and is one of the city’s most important junctions. Not only do many of the tram lines meet up here, but Parade Square has made itself a name as one of the world’s big financial centers. Large Swiss banks have set up their headquarters here and thus, it has become a synonym for wealth and prosperity. The square also connects to the Bahnhofstrasse, Zürich’s main shopping avenue where luxury labels fight over premiere retail space and the rich and famous come to shop.
But Parade Square wasn’t always mentioned in the same sentence as wealth and its history stands in stark contrast with today’s prestigious reputation. In fact, in the 17th century, the square was an important market place for trading livestock, especially pigs. Thus, Parade Square was known as Säumärt – pig market – for the longest time until the upswing in business and its renaming. Located at Parade Square is also one of the city’s most popular confectionery manufacturers, the Confiserie Sprüngli. At this café meets chocolate store you can enjoy tarts, cakes and everything in between or pick up some delightful macaroons from a huge display making up all colors of the rainbow.
Practical Info
Parade Square is located right in the center of Zürich next to the main train station. It is incredibly easy to get there, as many trains, trams and busses make a stop here.
Address: 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
From $ 26
Parco del Colle Oppio
With its prime location overlooking the mighty Colosseum, the Parco del Colle Oppio (Colle Oppio Park) is often seen as a mere walkway to Rome’s star attraction, but the hillside park is also a fascinating archeological site in its own right. Famously one of the seven hills of ancient Rome, Colle Oppio was once the site of the Baths of Trajan and Titus, as well as the Domus Aurea, (Nero’s Villa) and is dotted with intriguing ruins.
Laid out by Raffaele De Vico in 1928, the 11-hectare park was once embellished with marble statues, grand fountains and rose gardens, but today maintains a somewhat unkept façade. It’s none-the-less a popular lookout point, offering great views of the Colosseum and the Palatine, and hosts live music, entertainment and art exhibitions during the summer months.
Practical Info
The Parco del Colle Oppio is located just northeast of the Colosseum in central Rome.
Address: Colle Oppio Park, 22, Rome, Italy
Hours: Open daily dawn-dusk
From $ 57
Parc des Buttes Chaumont
One of Paris' most picturesque picnic spots, the tree-lined Parc des Buttes Chaumont was commissioned by Napoleon III back in 1867, adding a welcome splash of greenery to the bleary residential streets of Paris' 19th arrondissement. The park’s 25 hectares rise and fall over a series of hills, pocked with hidden caves, vibrant flower displays and gurgling streams. One of the largest parks in the city, Parc des Buttes Chaumont offers around 5 km of walking and cycling tracks, blazing a trail between attractions like the Chinese and English-style gardens and an atmospheric grotto housing a 20-meter waterfall. The majestic Temple of Sybil (Belvedere Sybil), a Greco-Roman homage to the Temple of the Sibyl in Tivoli, is the striking centerpiece of the park, perched on a 30-meter grassy pedestal in the center of the park’s lake. Visitors can visit the island via a 63-meter long suspension bridge, from where the views stretch over the park and its surroundings.
Those spending an afternoon in the park, will find plenty to keep them amused -- the space hosts three restaurants, two Guignol theaters where traditional marionette shows are held, a number of well-equipped children’s playgrounds and children’s pony rides throughout the summer months. And if you ever tire of all the natural scenery, don’t worry -- the park even has free wifi zones.
Those spending an afternoon in the park, will find plenty to keep them amused -- the space hosts three restaurants, two Guignol theaters where traditional marionette shows are held, a number of well-equipped children’s playgrounds and children’s pony rides throughout the summer months. And if you ever tire of all the natural scenery, don’t worry -- the park even has free wifi zones.
Practical Info
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is located in the northeast section of Paris in the 19th arrondissement.
Address: 1 Rue Botzaris, Paris 75019, France
From $ 37
Parc de la Villette
Holding the title of Paris’ largest park at around 25 hectares, Parc de la Villette is made up of a series of themed gardens, known as ‘prairies’, set around the banks of the l'Ourq Canal. There’s more on offer than just an idyllic setting, though – the park’s interactive play areas, cycle paths and event spaces, along with one of the city’s most popular museums offer plenty of options for a family day out.
The park is characterized by its modernist sculptures and installations, including around 35 fire-engine red follies dotted along the canal banks, a striking sight against the futuristic silhouettes of the park’s buildings. Three concert halls reside in the park – the Zenith Concert Hall and the Cite de la Musique, both important music halls, and the striking Grand Hall, a former livestock showground transformed by architects Bernard Reichen and Philippe Robert into a popular cultural center and performance arena. The City of Science and Industry, Europe’s largest science museum, is also on-site, fronted by the iconic Omnimax cinema, La Géode - a building constructed inside a giant silver ball. Film and music fans can even enjoy alfresco entertainment during the summer months, when the nearby Prairie du Triangle is transformed into an open-air cinema, and a number of music concerts and festivals are held in the park grounds.
Even the gardens themselves continue the postmodernist theme, designed by renowned architect Bernard Tschumi and including a Dragon garden, presided over by a towering ‘Dragon slide’, a firm favorite among visiting children; a Mirror Garden, where mirrored panels have been erected among the trees to dramatic effect and a pretty Bamboo Garden where shaded paths trace a scenic walk through the woodlands.
The park is characterized by its modernist sculptures and installations, including around 35 fire-engine red follies dotted along the canal banks, a striking sight against the futuristic silhouettes of the park’s buildings. Three concert halls reside in the park – the Zenith Concert Hall and the Cite de la Musique, both important music halls, and the striking Grand Hall, a former livestock showground transformed by architects Bernard Reichen and Philippe Robert into a popular cultural center and performance arena. The City of Science and Industry, Europe’s largest science museum, is also on-site, fronted by the iconic Omnimax cinema, La Géode - a building constructed inside a giant silver ball. Film and music fans can even enjoy alfresco entertainment during the summer months, when the nearby Prairie du Triangle is transformed into an open-air cinema, and a number of music concerts and festivals are held in the park grounds.
Even the gardens themselves continue the postmodernist theme, designed by renowned architect Bernard Tschumi and including a Dragon garden, presided over by a towering ‘Dragon slide’, a firm favorite among visiting children; a Mirror Garden, where mirrored panels have been erected among the trees to dramatic effect and a pretty Bamboo Garden where shaded paths trace a scenic walk through the woodlands.
Address: 211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, Paris 75019, France
From $ 23
Parco Virgiliano
The ancient Roman poet Virgil didn't die in Naples, but the city had stolen his heart and he said he wanted to be buried there. At least that's what the Neapolitans say. On the pretty Posillipo Hill, there are three attractions associated with Virgil – two parks, and his supposed tomb. Both parks have variations on the same name – Parco Virgiliano.
At the base of the Posillipo Hill, the Parco Virgiliano a Piedigrotta (also known as the Parco Virgiliano a Mergellina, the neighborhood below Posillipo) includes a winding path up the side of the hill, with plants on either side and great views over the Gulf of Naples and beyond. Partway up the hill, the supposed location of Virgil's tomb is at the end of a long tunnel. Although it's less of a pilgrimage destination now, it's still popular with some visitors.
At the top of Posillipo Hill is the other Parco Virgiliano (also called Parco Virgiliano a Posillipo). In addition to green space, this park also has a few playgrounds for kids and a small amphitheater where there are sometimes performances in the summer months. The park on top of the hill is a perfect place to enjoy the views over the historic city, the water, and even Mt. Vesuvius in the distance.
Even if you're not staying in the posh Posillipo neighborhood, it can be an excellent place to spend a romantic evening, with a walk through the park, dinner at a nice restaurant, and a parting view over the lit-up city before heading back to your hotel for the night.
Address: Viale Virgilio, Naples 80123, Italy
From $ 27
Paris Street
Originally called St. Nicholas Street, but renamed in 1926 to pay tribute to France for helping free the Czechs from Austria-Hungary during World War II, Paris Street is one of Prague’s most prestigious. Also called Parizska Street, it runs between the Old Town Square and the Cechuv Bridge. Lined with trees, it is home to some of the top designers in the world, including Louis Vitton, Hermes, Dolce & Gabbana, Dior, Prada and Gucci. The street’s architecture is also an attraction, with examples of neo-Baroque neo-Renaissance and Secession styles. Buildings feature richly decorated balconies, elegant moldings, busts, statues, turrets and towers.
In addition to clothing boutiques and shops, Paris Street boasts some of the top makers of watches and jewelry, such as Rolex and Cartier. It is also home to some of the best restaurants and cafes in Prague, including Barock, widely considered the best restaurant in the city.
Practical Info
Paris Street is located in the Old Town of Prague, not far from the Jewish Quarter. The nearest Metro station is Staromestska and several trams and buses run nearby as well. For those staying in Prague’s Old Town, the street is within easy walking distance.
Address: Paris Street, Prague, Czech Republic
From $ 15
Parc de Montjuic
Overlooking southwest Barcelona, Parc de Montjuic is the city’s green hilltop getaway, packed with history and attractions, including the historic Jewish Cemetery, 17th-century Montjuic fortress, National Museum of Catalonian Art, Joan Miró Foundation, and the replica Spanish village known as Poble Espanyol.
The Basics
Offering an abundance of notable attractions, Parc de Montjuic is featured on many sightseeing tours of Barcelona. Guided tours focusing on Montjuic Mountain often include admission to the Montjuic Castle and Palau Sant Jordi, plus visits to the 1992 Olympic facilities and Plaça Espanya with its Magic Fountain. Guests visiting the park independently should note that while the park itself is free, many of its attractions charge a separate admission fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parc de Montjuic is a must-visit for art lovers, architecture and history buffs, and photographers.
- Wear comfortable shoes and plan to do a lot of walking; the park is huge.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How to Get There
To get to Montjuic, take the funicular to the Parc de Montjuic stop, where you can then catch the cable car gondola even farther up the hill to the castle. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is also another good option for getting around this part of town, allowing you to stop at the different attractions that interest you.
When to Get There
You could easily spend an entire day (or more) exploring Parc de Montjuic and still not see everything. Many of the museums and attractions are open during the day, while the most popular time to see the Magic Fountain at the base of Montjuic is at night during a light and sound show.
A Hill with History
Parc de Montjuic has been the site of several important chapters in Barcelona’s history. In 1929, the International Exposition triggered rapid development in and around Montjuic. During the Spanish Civil War, Montjuic Castle was used to imprison, torture, and execute political opponents of General Franco. Things took a brighter turn in 1992, when the Olympic Games came to Barcelona and the hill was chosen as the location for several sporting venues.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
From $ 12
Paradis Latin
Just steps from the Boulevard Saint-Germain in the heart of the Latin Quarter, the Paradis Latin is one of Paris’ liveliest and most history-saturated cabaret venues. Originally built in 1803 and restored by Gustave Eiffel in 1887, the cabaret still hosts its revue show—which blends can-can dancing, music, acrobatics, and more—today.
The Basics
The famed Paradis Latin has a history full of twists, turns, and surprising characters—Napoleon Bonaparte, for one, who ordered the construction of the Latin Theatre (a predecessor to the Paradis Latin) in 1803. Though it was damaged in a fire during the Franco-Prussian War and forced to close, the theater was revamped and renamed under Gustave Eiffel, who decked it out with metal fixtures and a glass cupola in time for the 1889 World’s Fair. With additional periods of closure and renovation behind it, the thriving cabaret hosts its signature show, Paradis à la Folie, most evenings.
The Paradis Latin is an in-demand destination that attracts crowds, so book your tickets in advance. Choose from options that include dinner or Champagne and macarons on the side; upgrade to VIP seating, which affords the best views in the house.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Paradis à la Folie, the current show, has been performed since 2008 and includes 15 different rousing scenes.
- A smart-casual dress code is recommended; while jeans and sneakers are permitted, sportswear and beachwear are not.
- The Paradis Latin is accessible for visitors with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Access the Paradis Latin via the Métro; the 10 line stops at Cardinal Lemoine, and the 7 and 10 lines also stop at the nearby Jussieu. You can also take the 47, 63, 67, 86, and 87 bus lines, which stop nearby. Given its convenient Latin Quarter location, the theater is also accessible by car, on foot, or by Vélib’.
When to Get There
The Paradis Latin is open from Wednesday–Monday, and holds regular evening performances (as well as lunchtime, matinee shows on select dates). It also hosts special revue shows for select holidays, like Valentine’s Day and New Year’s Eve.
French Can-can Workshop
Impressed by the Paradis Latin’s dancers, and curious about the can-can? The theater hosts a monthly workshop that will teach you the basics of this classic dance style.
Address: 28, rue du Cardinal Lemoine, Paris 75005, France
From $ 87
Parc de la Ciutadella
Barcelona’s oldest and most popular park, Parc de la Ciutadella is a picturesque expanse of greenery with several attractions. Its landmark Arc de Triomf, designed by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, serves as the monumental gateway to the park’s northern entrance, and the park is also home to a boating lake, the Barcelona Zoo, Catalan Parliament, two museums, and a much-celebrated series of sculptures.
The Basics
Barcelona’s version of Central Park in New York ranks among the most popular attractions in the old city. Located just northeast of the city center, not far from the Barceloneta beach, the park is included in just about every small-group and private city tour. Options for tours that stop at Parc de la Ciutadella include walking, Segway, and cycling tours through the park and other points of interest, such as Las Ramblas, Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, and Port Olímpic.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park is a must-see for first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a variety of surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as many areas of the park lack shade.
- See the park on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour.
How to Get There
Parc de la Ciutadella is accessible on foot from just about anywhere in the old city or Barceloneta. To get there by public transportation, take the metro (Line 1) to Arc de Triomf station and head toward the park along the car-free Passeig de Lluís Companys.
When to Get There
The park bustles with visitors and locals throughout the day, so there’s never a bad time to visit. Weekends offer the best people watching, as Barcelona residents often come here for picnics and exercise.
Gaudí at the Park
When architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre was commissioned to update the park in advance of the 1888 International Exhibition, a young Antoni Gaudí (an architecture student at the time) caught his eye. Gaudí is said to have designed some of the pipework and decorative medallions of the park’s monumental fountain.
Address: Barcelona, Spain
From $ 16
Parco degli Acquedotti
One of Rome’s the most unique public parks, Parco degli Acquedotti is home to the remains of two ancient aqueducts—Aqua Felix and Aqua Claudia—and the 2nd-century Villa delle Vignacce. Part of Appian Way Regional Park, this 593-acre (240-hectare) expanse just outside the city center is a popular respite from the bustle of downtown Rome.
The Basics
Far enough outside the Eternal City to host flocks of grazing sheep but close enough to be an easily accessible retreat from the urban chaos, Parco degli Acquedotti is among the most fascinating areas of Appian Way Regional Park. Crossed by two aqueducts that provided water to ancient Rome, the park is fun to explore on foot or by bike as part of a guided tour that begins at the Aurelian Wall and follows the Appian Way along its historical route through the Roman countryside, visiting a number of archaeological ruins along the way.
Appian Way tours often include stops at sites such as the thermal baths of Caracalla, the San Callisto and San Sebastiano Catacombs, the Circus of Maxentius, and the tomb of Caecilia Metella. You can also join a guided small-group bus tour to explore this ancient road from central Rome.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you are joining a hiking or cycling tour, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Parco degli Acquedotti is outdoors, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- The ancient aqueducts make for unforgettable pictures and are a must for photography enthusiasts.
- Kids especially enjoy an outing to the park, where they can explore the walking and biking paths without dangers from car traffic.
- The park offers a free electric-minicar service for visitors with limited mobility, which must be reserved ahead of time.
How to Get There
Located just under five miles from Rome’s city center, Parco degli Acquedotti can be reached by Metro line A (Parco Appia Antica stop) or by bus (Piazza Cinecittà stop).
When to Get There
Parco degli Acquedotti, located inside Appian Way Regional Park, is entirely outside, so it’s best to visit on a clear day in the spring and fall when the temperatures are mild. You can spend anywhere from a few hours to an entire day exploring the park on foot or bike, so set off in the morning.
Appian Way Regional Park
The initial stretch of ancient Rome’s Appian Way, beginning at the Aurelian Wall that encircles Rome’s historical center, is part of a regional park, and there are a number of archaeological sites set along the historical route that are located within the park confines. A visit to Appian Way Regional Park is especially interesting for archaeology enthusiasts.
Address: Parco degli Acquedotti, Rome, Province of Rome, Italy
From $ 31
Paradise Beach
By day, Paradise Beach is a water sports hot spot, with swimsuit-clad revelers enjoying banana boat rides, Jet Ski jaunts, and scuba diving excursions. Come late afternoon, its legendary party scene gets going as fun-seekers flock to the beach bars and clubs for music, dancing, drinking, and fun.
The Basics
Paradise Beach is one of Mykonos’ most well-known stretches of sand. During the day, people come here to sunbathe, try watersports, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean. Some beach-hopping Mykonos tours stop here, while scuba diving tours also set off from Paradise Beach.
Later on, Paradise transforms into one of Greece’s most notorious party beaches, as the bars and clubs on the beach fling open their doors. Some beach clubs, such as Paradise Club and Cavo Paradiso, host sets from big-name DJs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Paradise Beach is a must for those who want to experience this Greek island’s legendary party scene.
- While the beach is family-friendly by day, it can be a bit too loud and rowdy for children as night draws in.
- Drinks, food, umbrellas, and loungers are all available at the beach.
How to Get There
Paradise Beach is situated on Mykonos’ southwest coast, about a 20-minute drive from Mykonos Town. Buses run between Mykonos Town and Paradise Beach, though the schedule changes depending on the time of year. Water taxis also run from Platis Gialos beach throughout the day, but service typically stops in the early evening.
When to Get There
If you want a laid-back beach experience or a few chilled-out drinks, come during the day. If you want to experience the wilder side of Paradise Beach, arrive in late afternoon. The party typically gets started between 4pm and 6pm and lasts until the wee hours.
Mykonos’ Other Beaches
Mykonos has lots of beautiful beaches to explore. Not far from Paradise Beach, you’ll find its neighbor, Super Paradise Beach, which boasts golden sand, clear waters, and a party atmosphere. For a family beach, try Agios Ioannis, which looks across to Delos, or Paraga Beach to the west of Paradise. Northwest of Paradise Beach, discover low-key Psarou Beach, where you can try outdoor activities such as windsurfing and waterskiing, or just chill out in one of the chic beachside restaurants and bars.
Address: Greece
From $ 139
Pariser Platz
Pariser Platz is a square in Berlin to the east of the Brandenburg Gate. It was named after the city of Paris in 1814 to commemorate the overthrowing of Napoleon in Paris. During the Cold War, this square was just east of the border, and once the Berlin Wall went up, it became part of the border strip and was inaccessible to the public. Today Pariser Platz is a popular spot for tourists to gather to admire Brandenburg Gate. Visitors will often see horse drawn carriages in the square waiting to take tourists on a romantic ride.
The perimeter of the square is lined with several embassies, including the French Embassy and the US Embassy. You will also find several hotels, restaurants, cafes, and several other countries' embassies in this area. It is also occasionally a site for temporary art installations as well as public demonstrations. Nearby Pariser Platz you will find the Reichstag Building which is the seat of the German Parliament, Tiergarten Park and one of three Soviet War Memorials in Berlin.
Practical Info
Pariser Platz is located at the end of Unter den Linden. To get there take the U55, S1, S2, or S25 to Brandenburger Tor.
Address: Pariser Platz, west end of Unter den Linden, Berlin 10117, Germany
From $ 16
Parco del Valentino
The first public gardens to be opened in Turin still exist as the Parco del Valentino, one of the city's most popular parks. Opened in 1856, the Parco del Valentino covers more than 123 acres in Turin along the left bank of the Po River. The park includes the Castello del Valentino, the University of Turin's botanical garden, and a replica medieval village – complete with a castle – built for the 1884 Turin International Expo.
The park was once the setting for car races—these were held between 1935 and 1954, all known as the Gran Premo del Valentino.
Practical Info
The Parco del Valentino is always open, and admission is free. It's on the west side of the river, between the Umberto I and Isabella bridges. Admission to and open hours of various attractions inside the park varies. The medieval village's castle, for instance, is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, and admission is €5 for adults. The Castello del Valentino now houses the architecture department of the University of Turin, and is not open to visitors.
Address: Corso Massimo d'Azeglio, Turin, Italy
Hours: Daily
From $ 14
Paris-Story
A unique museum devoted to telling 2,000 years of Paris’ history through multimedia displays and interactive exhibitions, the Paris-Story offers a fascinating and fun introduction to the French capital.
The Paris-Story features three main exhibition areas, starting with a unique film of the city by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, including magnificent aerial views and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of landmarks like the Sacré Coeur, Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. There’s also the Paris-Miniature exhibit, where visitors can explore a 3D-interactive model of Paris, and the Paris-Experience, with videos and quizzes about the city.
Practical Info
The Paris-Story is located on rue Scribe, close to the Palais Garnier. The site is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Adult admission costs €11.
Address: 11bis Rue Scribe, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: €11
From $ 11
Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes)
The Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes) date back to the 1700s, when the ossuary was formed from an old underground quarry. Over the years, more and more remains were brought here from overcrowded cemeteries to make room for the city's development, up until 1860. For those with an interest, it’s a fascinating look at a former burial practice.
The Basics
A Catacombs tour takes you 135 feet (20 meters) below ground to explore this subterranean world of skeletal remains. You’ll cover just under one mile (1.5 km), which takes about 45 minutes. The Catacombs of Paris aren’t usually part of standard city tours, so they’re often experienced on a standalone tour. Book a skip-the-line ticket to bypass the queue, or make your sightseeing even easier by selecting combo admission to both the Catacombs and the Eiffel Tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buy a ticket in advance to avoid waiting in a long line; visitors are limited to 200 at a time.
- You may want to bring a layer, as the temperature is 57° F (14° C) in the Catacombs.
- There is no cloakroom, so bring only what you want to carry with you.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll go down 130 steps and up 83 steps to return to street level.
- The Catacombs tour is not for everyone—you will be underground and see human bones, so it's not recommended for those with sensitive disposition or young children. And unfortunately, the site is not accessible for those with limited mobility or recommended for those with heart or respiratory problems.
How to Get There
The Catacombs are located in Paris' 14th arrondissement. The Denfert-Rochereau metro and RER station puts you right by the entrance on Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy.
When to Get There
The Catacombs are open every day except Mondays and some bank holidays. The experience is the same by day and in the evening, as you’re underground and the lighting is artificial. For fewer crowds, book a morning visit.
Other Things to Do in the 14th Arrondissement
This section of Paris is not the city’s most visited, as it’s away from the Seine near the southern edge of the city limits. If you’re making the trip to visit the Catacombs, take advantage of being in the 14th to check out other attractions such as the 56th-floor observation deck of Tour Montparnasse or Montparnasse Cemetery, where writers and intellectuals such as Charles Baudelaire, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir are buried.
Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Roi-Tanguy, Paris, Ile-de-France 75014, France
Admission: € 8-12 for adults
From $ 29
Parc Zoologique et Chateau de Thoiry
Parc Zoologique et Chateau is a 370 acre zoo, castle, and botanical garden in the town of Thoiry, France. The biggest section of the zoo covers 240 acres and has a road running through it for five miles. It is the African Reserve section, and visitors drive through in their own car while the animals roam freely. Some of the animals you can see here include horses, bears, bison, wildebeest, greater and lesser kudu, camels, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, and elephants. In the walk-through section of the zoo, you can see tigers, leopards, gibbons, red pandas, lemurs, macaques, cheetahs, wolves, pygmy goats, and Komodo dragons.
The 16th century chateau is still home to the Counts of La Panouse, but some sections are open to the public with guides dressed in costume. The castle was designed as a solar calendar with the garden walkways as the hands. On the summer and winter solstices, the sun rises and sets in the castle windows as if it is coming out of the castle itself. The castle is surrounded by 95 acres of landscaped gardens and trees.
Practical Info
Parc Zoologique et Chateau de Thoiry is located 33 miles west of Paris and can be reached using route N12. The zoo and safari park are open 10am to 5pm in the winter and 10am to 6pm in the summer. The castle is open 11am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm in the winter and for the whole day from 11am to 7pm in the summer. Admission is 30 euros.
Address: Rue du Pavillon de Montreuil, Thoiry, France
Admission: 30 euros
From $ 34
Parc del Forum
If you’re eager for views of the sea, lots of photo opportunities, and wide, open spaces, then head toward the northernmost coastline of Barcelona to the Parc del Forum. This architectural park of sorts was built in 2004 for the Universal Forum of Cultures, and continues to serve as a giant venue for events and exploration.
Though many of its attractions come and go — such as Primavera Sound, an annual music festival that takes place in June — the forum is always a worthy destination, beyond just checking out the architecture. Go there to visit the natural history-focused Museu Blau, which is situated in the park’s iconic triangular-shaped Forum Building; to take a dip in the Mediterranean from the sand-free, direct-to-the-water Forum marina and bathing area; or to let the kids burn off some energy at the seaside play area.
Practical Info
Though seemingly far away from Barcelona’s center, the park is easy to get to via the Metro (stop: Maresme-Fòrum), public buses, and, the most visitor-friendly option of all, the hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Address: Plaça del Fòrum, 1, Barcelona, Catalonia 08019, Spain
From $ 35