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Ria Formosa Natural Park
Located at the southernmost tip of Portugal’s Algarve, Ria Formosa Natural Park (Parque Natural da Ria Formosa) is a scenic swirl of freshwater lagoons, sandy islands, and lush salt marshlands. The park hugs the coast between Manta Rota and Vale do Lobo, and is best known for its varied topography and diverse bird life.
The Basics
Ria Formosa Natural Park is an ideal day trip from nearby Faro. With its scattered islands and aquatic landscape, the park is best experienced by boat—whether you choose to join a boat tour or hop on a ferry to explore at your own pace. There are various options for Ria Formosa boat tours, including bird-watching cruises aboard a traditional painted boat (saveiro), bike tours through the park’s many coastal trails, and catamaran cruises that visit several islands in one day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ria Formosa is a must-see for nature lovers.
- The park is a prime destination for bird-watching—look out for flamingoes, wigeon, black-tailed godwit, heron, and the rare purple swamphen.
- The Ria Formosa visitor center is located at Quinta de Marim and offers information and maps of the park’s islands and nature trails.
- Shade is limited in the park, so be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen.
How to Get There
Ria Formosa Natural Park is located near Olhão on Portugal’s southern coast. The closest international airport is in Faro, which is a 20-minute drive from the Ria Formosa visitor center. Ferries to the park’s islands run from Faro, Olhão, and Tavira.
When to Get There
Summer (June through September) is the most popular time to visit Ria Formosa, when ferries run frequently and the weather is typically warm and sunny. The park’s tiny islands can get crowded during July and August, so set sail early if you want the beach to yourself. Ferries are much less frequent in winter and sometimes stop completely, so during this season you may need to charter a small boat.
The Islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park
Five barrier islands make up Ria Formosa Natural Park, and each has its own character. Ilha de Armona is known for its sandy beaches, Ilha da Culatra for its lively fishing villages and Portuguese Water Dogs, and Ilha da Farol for its landmark lighthouse. Remote Ilha da Deserta is a good place to escape crowds, while Ilha de Tavira is ideal for nature walks or bike rides, with easy-to-follow trails linking the villages.
Address: Luz de Tavira, Portugal
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Riva Promenade
Travelers who are looking for the perfect way to spend an afternoon soaking up the beauty of Croatia’s idyllic coastline will find exactly what they’re after on the Riva Promenade. This incredible stretch of walkway runs the entire length of the old town and offers up incredible views of the surrounding harbor, European-style apartments and remote island’s are some of the city’s most picturesque.
Visitors will find some of Split’s best restaurants, cafes and nightlife along the promenade, which is also near to the city’s largest port. The famed walkway is flanked by towering palms and lined with glazed white tiles that lend some serious European-flare to this coastal destination.
Practical Info
The Riva Promenade is ideal for people watching but tends to be quiet during the day. Expect larger crowds on warm summer evenings, when both residents and travelers come out for drinks, dinner and dancing.
Address: Riva Promenade, Split, Croatia
From $ 25
Riddarholm Church (Riddarholmskyrkan)
One of the oldest buildings in Stockholm, Riddarholm Church is the traditional burial church for Swedish royalty. Originally built as a monastery, parts of the church date back to the late 13th century. It was transformed into a Protestant church after the Reformation and the congregation was eventually dissolved at the start of the 19th century. Today, it is used only for burial and commemorative purposes. Nearly every Swedish ruler from Gustavus Adolphus (1632) to Gustav V (1950) has been buried in the Riddarholm Church, as well as Magnus III (1290) and Charles VIII (1470).
The interior of the church features dozens of coats of arms of the knights of the Order of Seraphim, a tradition that dates back to the middle of the 18th century. When a knight dies, his coat of arms is hung inside the church.
Practical Info
Riddarholm Church can be reached by taking the T-bana (subway) to Gamla Stan and walking five minutes to Riddarholmen, or by taking bus 3 or 59 to Riddarhustroget. Guided tours are available during from mid-May to mid-September, daily at 11:30 a.m. They last about 45 minutes and cover everything from the early history of the church to a history of the royal family and the history of Stockholm.
Address: Riddarholmen, Stockholm, Sweden
Hours: From mid-May to mid-September, open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; from mid-September to late November, open Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed from late November to mid-May.
Admission: SEK 50 (credit card only); tour SEK 20.
From $ 70
Ring of Beara
The Ring of Beara is a circular road around the Beara Peninsula in southwest Ireland. It follows the coast and is about 85 miles around. The road begins in Kenmare in Kerry County, and you can go in either direction around the loop. The road passes through several small villages along the way, including Castletownbere, Bonane, Lauragh, Ardgroom, Eyeries, and Allihies. You can also see mountainous landscapes, jagged cliffs, waterfalls, lakes, the Atlantic Ocean, and herds of sheep.
The Uragh Stone Circle, a neolithic stone circle with some stones reaching almost 10 feet tall, is also located along this journey. A few islands are located just off the coast of the peninsula. One in particular is Dursey Island which is reachable by cable car. Healy Pass offers the best viewing point on the Beara Peninsula. A rock tunnel called Caha Pass connects Kenmare to Glengarriff in Cork County. There is also a 122 mile walking trail for those who would rather take it slowly and see the area on foot.
The Uragh Stone Circle, a neolithic stone circle with some stones reaching almost 10 feet tall, is also located along this journey. A few islands are located just off the coast of the peninsula. One in particular is Dursey Island which is reachable by cable car. Healy Pass offers the best viewing point on the Beara Peninsula. A rock tunnel called Caha Pass connects Kenmare to Glengarriff in Cork County. There is also a 122 mile walking trail for those who would rather take it slowly and see the area on foot.
Practical Info
The Ring of Beara is best started from Kenmare, Ireland. It is officially route N70.
Address: Killarney, Ireland
From $ 60
Ringstrasse
Marking the boundary of the First District, where the old city walls once stood, the series of boulevards that make up the Ringstrasse trace a 5km scenic loop around the historic center of Vienna. Created in the late 19th century to replace the fortification walls demolished under Emperor Franz Joseph, the Ringstrasse was designed to accommodate some of the city’s most spectacular works of architecture.
For visitors to Vienna, following the route of the Ringstrasse is a popular way to take in the sights, starting with the dramatic neo-Gothic Rathaus, or City Hall, set in the landscaped Rathauspark and the neighboring Parliament buildings. The magnificent Burgtheater and Volksgarten park stand opposite, and heading south, the ring road passes Maria Theresa Square and Franz Joseph’s elaborate Kaiserforum, now home to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) and the Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Natural History). The modern Museum Quarter, the Karlskirche and the world-renowned Vienna State Opera House also make popular stops.
For visitors to Vienna, following the route of the Ringstrasse is a popular way to take in the sights, starting with the dramatic neo-Gothic Rathaus, or City Hall, set in the landscaped Rathauspark and the neighboring Parliament buildings. The magnificent Burgtheater and Volksgarten park stand opposite, and heading south, the ring road passes Maria Theresa Square and Franz Joseph’s elaborate Kaiserforum, now home to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) and the Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Natural History). The modern Museum Quarter, the Karlskirche and the world-renowned Vienna State Opera House also make popular stops.
Address: Ringstrasse, Vienna, Austria
From $ 36
Rijksmuseum
Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum is the largest and most visited art museum in the Netherlands. Its collection, which ranks among the world’s finest, includes nearly 8,000 pieces spread over 80 galleries. Some of the Rijksmuseum’s most revered works are 15th- to 19th-century paintings by Flemish and Dutch masters, including Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. In addition to the astounding eight centuries of Dutch art and history, the museum has extensive outdoor gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The Basics
No surprise, this stellar national museum gets crowded. Consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket, which lets you head right inside. To maximize your experience of the Rijksmuseum, visit with a licensed art historian, either as a private guide or on a group tour. Or combine a canal cruise with a skip-the-line ticket, allowing you to see the museum on your own schedule.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allow at least a half-day for your visit, although even in four hours you’ll be able to see only a fraction of the Rijksmuseum’s huge collection.
- You do not need a ticket to visit the gardens, shop, or café, all of which are open daily from 9am to 6pm.
- The museum has free Wi-Fi.
- Flash photography, selfie sticks, and videos with lights are not allowed.
How to Get There
The Rijksmuseum is located in Amsterdam South on the Museumplein (“Museum Square”), at Stadhouderskade and Museumstrasse. It is easily accessible via tram to Hobbemastraat. Nearby attractions include the Van Gogh Museum, the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, and the Concertgebouw. The Red Light District is also within walking distance.
When to Get There
The museum is open 365 days a year, with the busiest months being April, May, and August. During the museum’s peak hours—10am to 3pm—the estimated wait time at the ticket office is approximately 20 to 30 minutes, so it’s best to book a skip-the-line ticket. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
The Rijksmuseum’s Notable Works
The Dutch Golden Age in Holland was a time of prolific art and powerful commerce, and some of the most famous paintings on display at the Rijksmuseum include works from this time period. Be sure to see Rembrandt's “Nightwatch” (1650), showing the militia led by Frans Banning Cocq. Other featured 17th-century Flemish and Dutch masters include Jan Vermeer (“The Milkmaid,” “Woman in Blue Reading a Letter”), Frans Hals (“The Merry Drinker”), and Jan Steen (“The Merry Family”). Beyond the celebrated paintings, other notable galleries include Sculpture and Applied Art (Delftware, dollhouses, porcelain, furniture), Dutch History, and Asiatic Art in the Asian Pavilion, which includes the famous 12th-century bronze statue of a dancing Shiva.
Address: Museumstraat 1, 1070 DN, Amsterdam, l, Netherlands
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm. Open year-round.
Admission: Adults: € 17.50, Children (18 and under): Free
From $ 17
Rio Guadalhorce Nature Reserve
Found 12.5 miles (20 km) west of Málaga among the winding tentacles of the Guadalhorce River estuary, the protected Rio Guadalhorce Nature Reserve (Paraje Natural Desembocadura del Guadalhorce) covers 67 hectares of prime wetland and is a magnet for migrating birds as well as the permanent home of many others.
Of 350 bird species that have been recorded in Andalucia, 260 have been spotted in this nature reserve. Flamingos, cormorants and herons are common sightings among the manmade lagoons (graveras), the reed beds, marshes and pools of the reserve, along with parakeets, house martins, plovers, hoopoes, finches and gulls. Birds of prey seen in the area include honey buzzards and marsh harriers and even — on occasions — rare ospreys.
The reserve’s five lagoons are backed by woodland consisting of a mixture of palm trees, willows, tamarisks, eucalyptus and poplars, and are well provided with hides for bird watchers and photographers. Several way-marked hiking and biking trails lead across the marshes.
If you’re feeling energetic, take a four-hour guided cycling tour of the park from Málaga or walk back to the city along the coastal path in about 1.5 hours.
Practical Info
Admission is free, and open 24/7. For public transportation, take EMT bus no 10 to Guadalmar; by car take the N340 signposted to Torremolinos and Fuengirola and take the turning to Guadalmar. Park by the church and walk for five minutes to the entrance to the reserve.
Address: Paseo España, 2, Málaga, Andalucia 29590, Spain
From $ 46
Rila Mountains
The Rila Mountains offer outdoor enthusiasts a perfect play land for exploring Bulgaria’s highest mountain. Nestled within the boundaries of National Park Rila, this area is home to the hottest spring in the Balkans, glacial lakes, four nature reserves and endless stretch of scenic landscape. Avid hikers will find easy access to two of Europe’s longest trail routes—the E4 and E8—which pass through some of the Rila Mountains’ 29 peaks. And hikers hoping for a shorter distance can participate in popular one-day excursions, like walks to the Seven Rila Lakes and Mount Musala, which both typically depart from Sofia.
Less intrepid travelers can still enjoy the beauty of this epic mountain range at one of the family-run hotels located in foothill villages like Govedartsi, Mala Tsarkva and Madzhare. Visitors can soak in the medicinal hot mineral waters of Sapareva Banya, a popular public bath, or venture to the Rila Monastery—not only the largest in the country, but also the most-visited site in the nation.
Practical Info
Public transportation to the mountains is available during the peak hiking season, but it typically requires at least one transfer to access trailheads. Snowshoeing in the mountains is a popular activity during winter months, but locals warn guides are almost essential due to the threat of avalanches.
Address: National Park Rila, Bulgaria
From $ 57
Ribeira Market (Mercado da Ribeira)
A staple of Lisbon’s culinary scene for centuries, the Mercado da Ribeira has origins that date back to the 13th century. The market has been at its current space since 1892, a spacious open hall, topped with a large dome. In 2014, the hall was reformed in 2014 and transformed into the beloved gourmet food market that Lisboans known today.
The Mercado da Ribeira is the perfect place for foodies to sample a number of Portuguese specialties like ginja (wild cherry liquor), Portuguese wines like Port and Madeira, and pastel de nata (traditional egg tarts). Other highlights include classics like steak and fries, locally produced cheeses and cured meats, and specialty chocolates from Porto. There are also some international food stalls serving up foods like sushi, pizza and hamburgers. One of Portugal’s most famous chefs, Henrique Sá Pessoa, offers a less expensive alternative to his high-end restaurants at his stall in the Mercado da Ribeira.
Looking to experience the traditional Portuguese market? Mercado da Ribeira still holds its daily farmer’s market, with stalls selling fresh produce, fish and meat, starting at 6 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Practical Info
The Mercado da Ribeira is located at Av. 24 de Julho, 50 in Lisbon. The food stalls are open Sunday–Wednesday from 10 a.m. to midnight and Thursday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The farmer’s market is open daily from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Address: Av. 24 de Julho, 50, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Sunday–Wednesday from 10 a.m. to midnight and
Thursday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
From $ 56
Rialto Fish Market (Mercato di Rialto)
To get a glimpse into authentic Venice, a visit to the city’s historic outdoor fish market is a must. Venetians have been purchasing their fish and seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables, and other foods at the Rialto Market since 1097, making it one of the most long-lived aspects of daily life in the Floating City.
The Basics
At Venice's best-known local market, stalls stand cheek by jowl hawking familiar seafood as well as local specialties from the Venetian lagoon. Browsing the selection is a great way to get an idea of what's local and fresh before you peruse restaurant menus later in the day.
Many walking tours of Venice include a stroll through the Rialto Market along with stops at Piazza San Marco and the Doge's Palace and a gondola ride. An excellent way to visit is as part of a food tour of the city that combines the market with tastings of cicchetti, Venetian snacks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As with any busy outdoor market in Italy, it's a good idea to keep an eye on your valuables.
- Be sure to bring your camera, as the stalls filled with artful displays of fresh seafood make for great photo opportunities.
- Tours through the Rialto Market are on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The Rialto Bridge is essentially a flight of stairs going up and down, so getting to the market from across the canal may be challenging with a wheelchair or stroller. Instead, take vaporetto Line 1, which is wheelchair accessible, to Rialto Mercato.
How to Get There
Cross the Rialto Bridge from the San Marco side of the Grand Canal to San Polo, then turn right and follow the edge of the canal to Campo della Pescaria, the open square where the Erberia (fruit and vegetable market) is located. Beyond that is the Pescheria, the covered fish market.
When to Get There
The Rialto Market is open Tuesday through Saturday, and the stands are usually closed up by lunch. To see them at their most interesting (and to pick up anything you'd like for a picnic lunch), be there in the early morning.
Food Markets in Italy
Before the recent rise of supermarkets, Italians shopped for their food and housewares in bustling outdoor markets for centuries. A visit to the local market is a fascinating slice of Italian life in any city or town you visit.
Address: 42 San Polo, Venice 30125, Italy
From $ 35
Ring of Brodgar
Among the tall green grass and purple heather between Loch Harray and Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar standing stones thrust from the earth like rusting giants’ swords.
At 340 feet (104 meters) in diameter, 27 of the original 60 stones survive, making this the third-biggest stone circle in Britain. Thought to have been built around 2000-2500 BC, this was one of the last of such monuments to be built in neolithic Orkney. Excavations of the site have revealed lots of pottery and animal bones, so it seems like cooking and eating around the still visible hearth was the order of the day here 5,000 years ago.
Famous for its perfectly circular shape, the beauty of the Ring of Brodgar is that, unlike Stonehenge, you can get right up to the stones. As you wander, look out for Viking graffiti on some of the stones: 12th-century runic carvings from the Norse invaders can be seen on quite a few. Just a few hundred meters away, you can also visit the neolithic Barnhouse settlement, discovered in 1984.
Practical Info
A five-mile drive northeast of Stromness on the B9055, entrance and parking is free, and you can visit 24 hours a day. In summer, there are Stagecoach buses from Kirkwall and Stromness to the standing stones. In summer, look out for free guided tours of Brodgar.
Address: Stromness, Orkney, Scotland
Hours: Daily
From $ 91
Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
The Rialto Bridge was the first to span Venice’s Grand Canal (Canal Grande) between its two highest points above sea level. The original 12th-century wooden bridge was replaced in 1592 by a stone structure resting on wooden pilings—a bold design by Antonio da Ponte featuring a single central arch over the water that allow ships to pass. Today, the bridge is among Italy’s most famous, carrying an endless stream of tourists and locals across the canal while countless gondolas and vaporetto water buses pass beneath.
The Basics
The Rialto is one of the most famous landmark bridges in Europe, and a popular and crowded Venice attraction connecting the San Marco district, home of St. Mark's Square, to the San Polo district, where Venice's famous fish market has stood for 700 years. The bridge is visited on nearly every walking tour through the "Floating City," along with other historic tourist attractions like the nearby Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), and St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco). For a unique view of the bridge far from the crowds, consider booking a Venice gondola ride or Venice Grand Canal evening boat tour to see the bridge from the water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The bridge is lined with tiny shops and leads to the San Polo neighborhood, known for its market and gourmet stores; it’s an ideal spot for souvenir shopping.
- The Rialto is a pedestrian bridge but has stairs on each side, so it is not accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get to There
The Rialto Bridge crosses the Grand Canal between the San Marco and San Polo districts, and can be reached by vaporetto water bus lines 1 and 2 via the Rialto stop. Along Venice's maze of tiny streets, there are signs and arrows painted on the walls at regular intervals pointing toward the Rialto.
When to Get There
The islands of Venice are crowded with tourists during the popular summer months, and it can be a challenge to navigate the crowds on the bridge. Take an early morning or late evening stroll if visiting between April and October, or book a private tour by boat along the Grand Canal.
The Grand Canal Bridges
The Rialto Bridge is one of four bridges that span the Grand Canal. The other three are the wood-and-steel Accademia Bridge (Ponte dell'Accademia), the modern Constitution Bridge (Ponte della Costituzione), and the marble ‘Bridge of the Barefoot’ (Ponte degli Scalzi).
Address: Ponte di Rialto, Venice 30125, Italy
Hours: Open every day, 24 hours a day.
Admission: Free
From $ 21
Ribeira District
Set on the banks of the River Douro, the Ribeira District is Porto’s oldest quarter. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the district’s maze of alleyways and pastel-colored houses rises up on a hill above the bay. The Ribeira’s modern waterfront—lined with restaurants, bars, and cafés—is a popular leisure hub and nightlife destination.
The Basics
Porto’s Ribeira District is best explored on foot. Visitors can stroll down Cais da Ribeira, the district’s main street, toward Ribeira Square (Praca da Ribeira), a picturesque plaza dominated by two large fountains. Explore on a walking tour with a local guide to learn about the neighborhood’s history and visit popular landmarks such as Ponte de Dom Luis bridge and Elevador da Ribeira. For a more intimate experience, opt for a small-group or private tour. Visit on a full-day tour of Porto to see the Ribeira District and other city highlights such as Arrabida bridge and the Porto Se Cathedral.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ribeira District is a must-see for first time visitors to Porto.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Come hungry; the neighborhood houses some of Porto’s best tascas (traditional restaurants) with spectacular river views.
How to Get There
The Ribeira is located in Porto’s southeast section, roughly 10 minutes by road from the city center. The district is easily accessible on foot or by bus.
When to Get There
The Ribeira District is lively throughout the day and into the evening. For a special treat, visit at dusk and dine along the Douro River as the port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia begin to light up across the water. Visit in spring or fall for fewer crowds, warm weather, and lower prices.
Cruising the Douro
Since the Ribeira ranks among Porto’s most photogenic neighborhoods, you’ll definitely want to see it (and snap some pictures) from the water. Short river cruises depart from Ribeira Quay and pass beneath Porto’s six bridges.
Address: Porto, Portugal
Admission: Free
From $ 29
River Arno
Stretching 150 miles (241 kilometers) from Mount Falterona to the Ligurian Sea, the River Arno is Tuscany’s largest body of water. While the Arno runs through Casentino and Pisa, it is most often visited in Florence, where it divides the city in two. Florence’s bridges—including the iconic Ponte Vecchio—are renowned for their River Arno views.
The Basics
As Florence’s bisecting waterway and one of its main attractions, the Arno is seen on most walking tours, which also typically include the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Santa Croce Church, and Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence. While walking tours are the best way to get a close look at the Arno, golf cart, Vespa, and vintage car tours typically include a drive along the river’s banks and provide a quicker way to see all that Florence has to offer. All that said, you can’t get closer to the Arno than through water-based activities, from paddleboarding to barchetto tours, which provide views of Florence from a perspective that many visitors often miss.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the banks of the Arno is a must for first-time visitors to Florence, especially photographers of all skill levels.
- Remember to bundle up if visiting during December and January, when windy conditions along the river may cause temperature drops.
- Don’t forget comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore Florence is on foot.
- Download the Firenze Turismo app to access maps, cultural event calendars, and tourist information.
How to Get There
The Arno runs through two of Italy’s top destinations—Florence and Pisa—both of which are easily accessible using public transit. The centrally located Firenze Santa Maria Novella railway station in Florence and Centrale station in Pisa are the terminuses for most direct buses and trains. If traveling by car to Florence, take Autoroute E35 to Highway SS67; to Pisa, take Autoroute E80 or Superstrada Firenze-Pisa-Livorno.
When to Get There
The Ponte Vecchio, one of the river’s main attractions in Florence, can get congested on weekday and weekend afternoons. For a quieter visit, go in the morning just as the vendors begin to set up shop. Annual highlights in the city of Pisa include Luminara di Santa Ranieri in June, when thousands of twinkling lights float down the river to celebrate the patron saint of Pisa, as well as the Pisa Regatta, where participants race against the Arno’s current.
Where to Find the Best Views of the Arno
While there are no bad views of the Arno, the Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Santa Trinita offer the best close-range views of the Arno’s current. For panoramic views of Florence and the river at sunset, climb to the top of Piazzale Michelangelo around 5pm. Easy Living Beach, on the south bank of the Arno, is a popular summer haunt, while the Uffizi Gallery offers glimpses of the river through gallery windows above.
Address: Italy
From $ 29
Riga Castle
Standing on the banks of the Daugava River is Riga Castle, the palatial official residence of the President of Latvia. Built in the early 14th century, it is one of the most resilient icons of Latvian heritage. At various points in its 700-year history, the castle has been under Polish, Swedish, and Soviet control, and has undergone an accumulative century of constant construction. Today, it is open to the public as home to the Latvian Art Museum and the National History Museum of Latvia.
The medieval castle contains four stories and a rectangular courtyard, with four rectangular towers on its corners and two rounded towers added during the 15th century. It is one of the oldest medieval castles in Latvia, and reflects different periods of history in its interior.
Practical Info
Riga Castle is located in the center of Riga near the old city, within easy walking distance from many tourist hotels.
Address: Riga LV-1050, Latvia
From $ 35
Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights)
As one of the oldest and most-admired landmark buildings in The Hague, the Ridderzaal makes up part of the medieval Binnenhof (Inner Court) complex, which was built back in the 13th century for the counts of Holland as a hunting lodge. Ridderzaal dominates the great cobbled courtyard and cloistered archways of the Binnenhof, home to the offices and meeting rooms of the Dutch Parliament and now the political hub of the Netherlands.
The Ridderzaal was the last building to be added to the Binnenhof in 1280, and its exterior is adorned with ornate twin spires and Gothic detailing. Its interior reveals a great vaulted hall some 100 feet (30 meters) in length, with walls plastered in coats-of-arms. The hall has a leading role in contemporary politics, as it is the scene of the Dutch Opening of Parliament ceremony. Every September on Prince’s Day (Prinsjesdag), King Willem-Alexander delivers his annual Speech from the Throne to the Dutch people from the Ridderzaal.
Practical Info
The Ridderzaal and the whole Binnenhof are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for guided tours, all centered on the photogenic Hofvijver Lake. The area is accessible by Tram 10, 16 or 17 to Buitenhof, and costs for guided tours range from 5€ to 8€. The stately Binnenhof courtyard and Ridderzaal reception hall are open to wander for free.
Address: The Hague, Netherlands
Hours: The Ridderzaal and the whole Binnenhof are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for guided tours
Admission: Costs for guided tours range from 5€ to 8€
From $ 55
Ring of Kerry
Explore southern Ireland on a road trip along the Ring of Kerry, a 110-mile (180-km) scenic route of narrow roads winding around the Iveragh Peninsula. As you cruise along the Atlantic Coast on this mountain road through Kells, Derrynane, and Glenbeigh, you’ll find a number of impressive sights.
The Basics
Most travelers start and end the loop in Killarney and make stops all around County Kerry to see historic seaside villages, Killarney National Park, the rugged Atlantic coast, and a few Irish castles. Many tours depart from other Ring of Kerry towns such as Sneem, Parknasilla, Cahersiveen, and Killorglin, the home of the famous Puck Fair festivities, but if you need transportation to southern Ireland from elsewhere in the country, Ring of Kerry day tours are offered with starting points in Dublin, Kenmare, Cork, Limerick, and Kinsale.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As with many ring roads, there is little room to pass at some points. It’s good to note that all tour buses travel counterclockwise from Killarney and that self-driving travelers can head clockwise for less traffic.
What to See Along the Ring of Kerry
From Ross Castle and Muckross House to Torc Waterfall, Bog Village, and the glacial valley of the Gap of Dunloe, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled and your camera out. The ring also passes the golden beaches of Inch Beach, the Lakes of Killarney, the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, Ladies View, and Dingle Bay looking out to the Dingle Peninsula. The coastal side of the loop offers a taste of the Wild Atlantic Way, and in County Kerry’s Waterville, visitors tend to stop for photos with the waterfront Charlie Chaplin statue.
How to Tour the Ring of Kerry from Dublin
The Ring of Kerry loop is one of the most popular day trips available from Dublin, as WiFi-equipped coach tours make it easy to see dozens of sights in one day. Bus tours depart from a main street in Dublin city center and head out on a four-hour drive 185 miles (300 km) southwest to then embark on the 110-mile (180-km) loop. Day trips tend to be quite long (upwards of 14 hours) due to all the driving. If a single day isn’t enough, multi-day tours include accommodation and allow you to see more at a slower pace. The ring can also be reached from Dublin on a rail tour, during which travelers take a train to Killarney and then hop on a coach bus to ride the ring.
Address: Killarney, South West Ireland, Ireland
Admission: Free
From $ 29
Richard's Castle
Perhaps one of Kiev’s most beloved royal structures in Kiev, Richard’s Castle was constructed as an homage to the 12th century English king and leader of the Third Crusade who represents bravery, chivalry and honor. The neo-Gothic-style of architecture is a nod to another nearly identical building in St Petersburg. According to local folklore, the architectural plans may have been stolen by the castle’s contractor, Dmitry Orlov.
Travelers who venture to this fabled site will likely learn that the building’s mystery doesn’t end with its construction. That’s because it’s rumored to be a haunted. Since 1912 residents have called Richard’s Castle the “Haunted House” since the sounds of ghosts crying are said to still be heard here at night.
Practical Info
The castle is located at 15 Andriyivsky Uzviz, a few hundred yards from the Church of St Andrew.
Address: 15 Andriyivsky Uzviz, Kiev, Ukraine
From $ 40
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is photogenic from every angle, thanks to its jumble of multicolored buildings cocooned between dramatic sea cliffs and fronted by an expanse of blue ocean. The largest and southernmost of northern Italy’s five Cinque Terre villages, Riomaggiore is the place for romantic promenades, sipping coffee in traditional cafés, and bird watching along the rocky shores.
The Basics
Riomaggiore makes a good base for sailing or kayaking along the Italian Riviera coast; wine-tasting tours to the Montenero vineyards; and hiking and mountain biking excursions in Cinque Terre National Park, which encompasses all five Cinque Terre towns. Day tours to Riomaggiore run from La Spezia, Siena, Florence, and Milan, and typically also visit the neighboring villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola, as well as nearby Portovenere.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Riomaggiore can get busy in peak summer season, so book tours and accommodations in advance.
- Bring comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as the village roads are steep and often uneven.
- While many hotels and tourist attractions in Riomaggiore are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the village’s steep and narrow lanes can be challenging to navigate for those with mobility issues.
How to Get There
Located in Cinque Terre National Park, just south of Manarola along the Italian Riviera, Riomaggiore is a two-hour drive from Florence or a 30-minute drive from La Spezia. Parking is limited in Riomaggiore, so unless you are staying in town overnight, it’s best to join a tour or arrive by train from La Spezia (a five-minute ride). Alternatively, from mid-April through October, ferries connect Riomaggiore with La Spezia, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, and Manarola.
When to Get There
Riomaggiore sees 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 should note that hotel prices rise in August. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in heavy rain or icy conditions.
Buon Appetito!
Home to some of Cinque Terre’s best restaurants and cafés, Riomaggiore is a great place to sample authentic Ligurian cuisine. Look out for signature dishes such as coniglio alla ligure (red wine–braised rabbit) and pesto alla Genovese (pasta with fresh pesto), street foods like pansotti (stuffed pasta) and farinata (chickpea pancakes), and the sweet dessert wine Sciacchetra.
Address: Riomaggiore, Italy
From $ 55
Rila Monastery
There’s a reason why the Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest religious structure, is the most visited site in the country. Its cobblestone courtyard, winding balconies, picturesque mountain views and brightly colored frescos transport travelers to a place that is almost otherworldly. Nearly 1 million people find their way to this treasured destination every year.
Travelers can explore the cloisters, farming buildings and church. The museum, which offers an in-depth look at the monastery’s history and function, also showcases hand-woven national costumes donated from neighboring towns are on display. The nearby cave of St. Ivan of Rila continues to rank among the most popular stops on a tour of Rila Monastery. According to tradition, St. Ivan of Rila, the hermit who founded the monastery, lived in this cave while his students built what would eventually become Bulgaria’s most famous spiritual center.
Practical Info
Travelers can take the E79 International Route between Sofia and Kulata to the monastery. It’s located about 25 kilometers from Kocherinovo. Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders, knees and elbows in order to tour the grounds.
Address: Kyustendil, Bulgaria
From $ 10