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Venice Islands

Venice is made up of over 100 small islands, but generally “the Venice islands” refers to the three most famous outlying islands in the Venetian lagoon: Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano, just north of Venice proper, has been the center of Venice’s famous glass-making industry since 1291, and the island’s expert glassblowers still handcraft stunning pieces of Murano glass today. Farther north, Burano has quiet canals lined with brightly painted fishermen’s houses and is home to Venice’s traditional lace artisans. Its neighboring island of Torcello, first settled in 452, is believed to be the first populated island in the Venetian lagoon.

The Basics

The only way to visit Venice’s islands is by boat. By far the best option for avoiding the hassle and delays of the vaporettos (ferries) is booking a private motorboat tour. Tours enable you to make the most of your time on each island—visiting the glass factories on Murano, lace-making demonstrations on Burano, and the historic sights on Torcello—without having to navigate the complicated and crowded interisland public transportation system. Choose a half-day sightseeing tour if you are pressed for time, or a more leisurely full-day Venice cruise to explore the Grand Canal and lagoon islands at a more relaxed pace.

Things to Know Before You Go

Be sure to bring your camera to capture the picturesque glassblowing demonstrations on Murano and traditional lace-making on Burano.
Murano glass and Burano lace are famous for their impeccable quality—and prices reflect that. Be wary of glass or lace shops that advertise “bargain” prices, which often means low-quality goods imported from outside Italy.
Murano’s glass shops are known for their hard-sell techniques, so always book your Venice islands tour through a reputable company to avoid unpleasant strong-arming tactics.

How to Get There

From St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), take vaporetto 4.1 from the San Zaccaria stop, or a private water taxi from the Grand Canal boat launch near the Doge’s Palace, to Murano. From there, local water buses or taxis run to Burano and Torcello.

When to Get There

The Venice islands are most crowded in summer. The crowds thin considerably from November through February, though chilly temperatures can mean a less pleasant boat trip across the lagoon.

Torcello in Literature

Over the decades, a number of famous artists, musicians, and Hollywood stars have spent time on the quiet island of Torcello. Ernest Hemingway, for one, wrote parts of “Across the River and into the Trees” during his stay on the island in 1948.

Italy

From $ 21

Velázquez Palace

This Spanish palace and exhibition hall in Madrid’s Parque del Retiro primarily features temporary exhibits of Spain’s national museum of modern art. Built in 1883, the beautiful structure is covered by glass and cast iron meant to let in natural light. The architecture is said to be inspired by the Crystal Palace in London’s Hyde Park. Its exterior features arches decorated with detailed, colorful tiles alongside red brick and rows of well-manicured trees.

Architect Ricardo Velázquez designed it for the Exposicion Nacional de Minería. It was meant to show Spain’s achievements in ceramics, glass, and mining at the time. After its use in the exposition it was utilized as center for Spain’s overseas territories until it was restored in the 20th century and revitalized as an important center for contemporary Spanish art.

Practical Info

It is about a 20 minute walk into the Parque del Retiro from the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, of which the palace is a part of. The Velazquez Palace sits nearby a small lake, as well as the similar structure of the Palacio de Cristal. The nearest metro station is Retiro and the palace is free to enter. It is open April to December from 10 am to 10 pm and October to March from 10 am to 6 pm. A list of temporary exhibitions is available at the Reina Sofia.

Parque del Retiro, Madrid, Spain

April-December from 10 am-10 pm and October-March from 10 am-6 pm.

From $ 41

Vegueta

The entrancing old barrio at the heart of Las Palmas on Gran Canaria, UNESCO World Heritage site Vegueta has its origins back in the 15th century. It is centered around the Plaza Santa Ana, a cobbled piazza surrounded dominated by the twin-spired, heavily ornate Cathedral of Santa Ana; it was the island’s first church, consecrated in the 15th century following the island’s capture by Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain in 1478. It is a delightful mixture of Gothic and Renaissance flourishes, surrounded by an array of highly decorative townhouses reflecting architectural styles from the 15th to the 19th centuries.

Among the spider’s web of cobbled backstreets and atmospheric squares in Vegueta are several Baroque churches and the Museo Canario (Canary Island Museum), which showcases the world’s foremost collection of tools, jewelry and pottery utilized by the Guanches, the indigenous island population who were displaced with the arrival of their Spanish occupiers. Another architectural highlight of the district is the ocher-colored Casa de Colón (Columbus House), where Christopher Columbus reportedly stayed on his way to discover the New World in 1492. Its ornate façade is covered with elaborately carved wooden balconies and the interior houses relics of the great Spanish explorer.

However, half the charm of a visit to Vegueta is simply wandering the historic streets, relaxing in sidewalks bars, rummaging in the weekend markets or sampling Canarian tapas and honey rum.

Practical Info

Vegueta is the ancient center of Las Palmas on Gran Canaria.

Cathedral of Santa Ana on Plaza Santa Ana opens Mon–Fri 10am–4.30pm, Sat 10am–1.30pm. Admission is adults €2.40, children go free. Museo Canario is at Doctor Verneau, 2, and opens Mon–Fri 10am–8pm, Sat–Sun 10am–2pm. Admission for adults is €4, seniors & students €2.40, children under age 12 free. Casa de Colón is found at Calle de Colón, 1. Admission is free and it is open Mon–Sat 10am–6pm, Sun 10am–3pm.

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain, Spain

From $ 52

Venice Lido (Lido di Venezia)

The Venice Lido (Lido di Venezia), a long stretch of sand in the Venetian Lagoon, is an easy escape for a quick beach break, round of golf, bout of shopping, or leisurely meal. Along several water bus lines and just minutes from the center of Venice, sneaking away from the crushing crowds of St. Mark’s Square couldn’t be simpler.

The Basics

The Lido island’s northern half is home to the Venice Film Festival, a smattering of stylish hotels, the Venice Casino, and a host of restaurants and nightlife spots. Toward the island’s south, an impressive golf course welcomes visitors looking to get out on the green. In the center of the island are two large public beaches perfect for relaxing under the sun along Italy’s Adriatic Sea, and the Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta, a popular destination for shopping, entertainment, and uninterrupted ocean views.

You can use a hop-on-hop-off Venice sightseeing boat tour to visit the Lido, or an Alilaguna boat transportation pass. Otherwise, opt for a private tour of Venice’s outlying islands, including Burano, Murano, Giudecca, and the Lido.

Things to Know Before You Go

Most of the beach is reserved for guests of the Lido hotels; if you are not staying in one of these, head to the public beach at the end of the Gran Viale.
Kids who need a break might enjoy a few hours of outdoor activities and water sports at the Lido beach.
The vaporetto (water bus) services in Venice are all accessible to wheelchair users, though the city itself is a challenge to navigate.

How to Get There

You can reach the Lido by taking the vaporetto from Piazza San Marco that travels up the Grand Canal and getting off at the Santa Maria Elisabetta stop. Alternatively grab a private water taxi.

When to Get There

Venice gets very crowded during the summer months (from June to September), so if you want mild weather and smaller crowds, the best times to visit the area are spring and fall. The annual Venice Film Festival is held from late August to early September.

The Venice Lido Beach

The Lido beaches can be crowded in summer, but the water is clear and gentle due to a number of breakwaters sheltering the shoreline. The beach clubs are elegant and well outfitted, providing everything from “huts”—large cabins with a veranda and an awning—to simple deck chairs and umbrellas.

Lido di Venezia, Italy

From $ 23

Vatican Grottoes

Popes have been interred in St. Peter’s Basilica for centuries, and while many papal tombs are inside the basilica, others are located underground in the Vatican Grottoes. Take the stairs down from the transept to view the final resting places of dozens of popes along with a number of royals.

The Basics

The Vatican Grottoes sit below the modern basilica but above the level of the first Christian Roman Emperor Constantine’s original 4th-century basilica. The earliest pope buried in the grottoes is the 9th-century Pope Nicholas I; Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II are also interred there. In addition, the tombs of Queen Christina of Sweden, Emperor Otto II, and Queen Charlotte of Cyprus are located inside along with a number of ornately decorated chapels and a 14th-century fresco of the Madonna by Pietro Cavallini.

Due to the long lines to enter St. Peter’s Basilica and the grottoes, by far the best way to visit is to join a skip-the-line Vatican tour that includes the church and underground tombs. Most small-group tours combine the basilica with other Vatican City highlights like the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Gardens.

Things to Know Before You Go

St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Grottoes are sacred places and have a very strict dress code to enter, so be sure to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Entry to the basilica requires a security check in St. Peter’s Square; large bags, suitcases, pocketknives, scissors, corkscrews, umbrellas, and other prohibited items can be left in the free cloakroom.
The Vatican Grottoes are not accessible to wheelchairs.

How to Get There

Entrance to the Vatican Grottoes is below the St. Andrew statue near the papal altar inside St. Peter’s Basilica, located on St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro) in Vatican City. The closest metro station is Ottaviano.

When to Get There

You can visit the grottoes whenever the basilica is open. Note that the basilica closes each Wednesday morning during the weekly papal audience.

St. Peter’s Tomb

The tomb of St. Peter is not in the Vatican Grottoes, but one level below in the Scavi (archaeological dig), accessible only via a private tour that you must book months in advance through the Vatican’s Excavations Office.

Piazza San Pietro, Citta del Vaticano, Vatican City, Italy

From $ 80

Venice Cruise Port

Cruising into the Venetian Lagoon is an unforgettable experience, as you skirt the islands to dock at the Stazione Marittima near the Piazzale Roma transport hub. St. Mark’s Square and its many-domed basilica is only a short public ferry or water taxi ride away, and the picturesque canals, bridges, and palaces of Venice await.

The Basics

Venice can be a confusing maze of winding canals and tiny backstreets for any visitor, so joining a private walking tour of the Floating City is the most stress-free way to savor its unique beauty and visit the most famous attractions while in port. Maximize your time by exploring Venice with a shore excursion that includes a water taxi ride from the cruise port down the Grand Canal to St. Mark’s Square and skip-the-line tickets to the more crowded attractions like the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Most Venice shore excursions include a half-day guided walking tour that takes in highlights like St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and the city’s famous network of canals, bridges, and quiet backstreets.

Things to Know Before You Go

St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace are the most visited attractions in Venice, so be sure to choose a tour with skip-the-line tickets.
Entry to most Venetian churches, including St. Mark’s Basilica, require clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Private tours and shore excursions of Venice require a fair amount of walking, and comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
There are numerous canalside stops around the city where you can book a gondola ride; rates are official and posted at all the stops.

How to Get to Venice from the Venice Cruise Port

Vaporettos (public ferries) and water taxis run to St. Mark’s Square from the Stazione Marittima cruise port hourly and take about 20 minutes to make the trip down the Grand Canal; you could also walk 10 to 15 minutes to Piazzale Roma and catch the vaporetto from there, which run more frequently. Some cruise lines provide a free shuttle to St. Mark’s Square, and many shore excursions include a private water taxi to the square.

Venice Cruise Port Information

Most of the largest cruise lines stop at the Venice cruise port. Italian is the predominant language here, but English is widely understood throughout Venice. The local currency is the euro; ATMs and foreign exchange bureaus are clustered around St. Mark’s Square.

Marittima-Fabbricato 248, Venice 30100, Italy

From $ 64

Vaux-le-Vicomte Palace

The grandiose Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle (Château de Vaux-de-Vicomte) is one of France’s most impressive architectural landmarks. Designed by the same architects behind the Palace of Versailles, it’s a Baroque masterpiece surrounded by manicured French gardens, decorative moats, and traditional drawbridges.

The Basics

When visiting Vaux-le-Vicomte you can explore inside Nicolas Fouquet’s extravagant palace, where highlights include the King’s Room, Grand Salon, and the basement kitchens. Then take in the view from the Dome, stroll through the formal gardens, and visit the carriage museum. It’s possible to visit independently on an audio-guided tour, take a group or private tour from Paris, or even combine a Vaux-le-Vicomte tour with a visit to nearby attractions like Château Fontainebleau.

Things to Know Before You Go

Plan at least three hours to visit the palace and gardens.
Visitor facilities include gift shops, a bar, restaurants, picnic areas, and free parking.
Audio guides are available in nine languages.
The ground floor of the palace and the gardens are accessible to wheelchair users, and electric golf carts are also available for rent. Strollers are not allowed inside the palace.

How to Get There

Vaux-le-Vicomte is just 34 miles (55 kilometers) southeast of Paris, around a 1-hour drive. To arrive by public transportation, take the train to Provins from Paris’ Gare de l’Est and get off at Verneuil l’Etang train station, from where the Châteaubus shuttle runs to the château. Alternatively, catch the train from Paris’ Gare de Lyon station to Melun station, from where it’s a short taxi ride.

When to Get There

The palace is open to the public daily from mid-March to the start of November. The busiest time is during July and August, when an early morning tour offers the best chance of avoiding the crowds. Alternatively, the most atmospheric time to visit is during the Candlelight Visits, held on Friday and Saturday nights from May to October, when the estate is illuminated with over 2,000 candles, live classical music is played in the garden, and champagne is served.

Architectural Highlights of Vaux-le-Vicomte

Built for aristocrat Nicolas Fouquet during the reign of King Louis XIV, Vaux-le-Vicomte is a remarkable example of 17th-century French Baroque style. The brainchild of architect Louis Le Vau, landscaper André le Nôtre, and designer Charles Le Brun, it’s known for its striking facade, dramatic dome, and lavishly decorated interiors, complete with gilded walls, statues, tapestries, and the era’s finest furnishings. The gardens are equally stunning, with fountains, canals, and stone curbs that create an optical illusion depending on your viewpoint. In fact, the estate is so extravagant, it’s thought to be part of the reason that Fouquet was eventually accused of embezzling state funds and the king imprisoned him until his death.

Maincy, Seine-et-Marne, France

Vary by season

Adults: €14.50 - 19.50

From $ 68

Venice Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia)

Home to the best art collection in Venice, the Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia) houses Venetian paintings dating from the 14th century to the 18th century. Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man is the collection’s most famous work, but the Venetian painters best capture the spirit of the Floating City.

The Basics

Venice’s Accademia Gallery gathers sumptuous masterpieces by Venetian artists like Titian, Giambattista Tiepolo, Canaletto, Mantegna, Hieronymus Bosch, Giovanni Bellini, and Paolo Veronese. Housed in the Scuola della Carita, part of the former Santa Maria della Carità convent complex, the museum first opened in the early 19th century. Today it is home to both a permanent collection and rotating temporary exhibitions. To fully understand the scope and importance of the artwork on display, by far the best way to visit is with a guided tour that includes skip-the-line access to the popular museum.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Accademia Gallery is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man is on display only periodically due to its fragile nature.
The Accademia Gallery is accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Venice's Accademia Gallery is located on Campo della Carità in the Dorsoduro district right on the Grand Canal. Take vaporetto line 1 or 2 to the Accademia stop from either St. Mark’s Square or the train station.

When to Get There

Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the best time to visit its sights is October to March, when the city is less crowded. That said, the Accademia Gallery is the perfect respite from the muggy heat in summer, cold lagoon winds in winter, and sudden rainstorms in spring and fall. The museum is closed on Monday afternoons, May 1, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Venice’s Scuole Grandi

The Scuola della Carità was the oldest Scuola Grande in Venice, dating from the 13th century. The city originally had six of these important charitable and religious confraternities, which were Napoleon disbanded during his 18th-century occupation.

Campo della Carita 1050, Venice, Veneto, Italy

Varies

From $ 24

Venustempel Sex Museum

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

The Basics

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

Things to Know Before You Go

Plan around an hour for your visit—that’s plenty of time to take in all the exhibitions.
Visitors under 16 years old are not permitted to enter the museum; identification may be required.
The museum is not accessible for wheelchair users or strollers.

How to Get There

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

When to Get There

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

Inside the Venustempel

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

Damrak 18, Amsterdam 1012, Netherlands

Varies

From $ 23

Vatican City

Vatican City may be the smallest sovereign nation-state in the world, but it is a religious and cultural superpower, home to some of the world’s greatest artistic and architectural marvels—namely St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Peter’s Square, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. It is located wholly within the confines of Rome, covers 110 acres (44 hectares), and has an official population of about 800. Having gained recognition of full independence in 1929 and today governed by the pope, Vatican City has its own post office that issues official stamps and a banking system that mints coins (though the euro is used for commerce).

The Basics

Some of Rome’s most visited attractions are set in Vatican City. The Vatican Museums often have long entry lines stretching for blocks along the city walls; to avoid the crowds, consider reserving a small-group Vatican tour with skip-the-line access or a private tour with VIP priority access in the morning or evening. Vatican City private and group tours generally include visits to the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pinacoteca, other sights in the Vatican Museums complex, and the Vatican Gardens.

Things to Know Before You Go

The pope’s weekly address in St. Peter’s Square is wildly popular, so be sure to book official Papal Audience tickets in advance.
Vatican City houses some of Italy’s most important artistic masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s “Pietà” in St. Peter’s Basilica and ceiling frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, plus the museum complex’s Raphael Rooms.
To enter St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, appropriate attire and behavior are required. Wear modest clothing and keep your voice low.
Security for entering the museum complex and the basilica includes a metal detector, so don’t bring any banned items—pocketknives, corkscrews, umbrellas, etc.

How to Get There

The most scenic way to enter Vatican City is by foot from the center of Rome, across Ponte Sant'Angelo to Piazza San Pietro. Alternatively, the Ottaviano station, on metro Line A, is about a five-minute walk away.

When to Get There

Vatican City heaves with tourists year-round. Summer is the busiest time of year, when skip-the-line tickets or a private tour guide are essential; the museums are less crowded during the winter months. At any time of year, Vatican City’s sights are busiest at midday, so plan your Rome tour around a visit in the early morning or late afternoon.

The Swiss Guards

One of the most photographed sights in Vatican City are the brightly costumed Swiss Guards, who stand at attention around St. Peter’s Square. This small force of Swiss soldiers is maintained by the Holy See and provides security for the papal residence and the pope, as it has since 1506.

Vialle Vaticano, Vatican City 00120, Italy

From $ 3

Vatican Egyptian Obelisk

The cityscape of Rome is characterized by numerous obelisks. They have a strong decorative effect, but the meaning behind these monuments dates back to the ecclesiastical influence of centuries past and is supposed to demonstrate the power of the church and the glory of the popes—a connection between our world and the world of the gods. It’s said that the higher the obelisk, the closer it is to god.

The Vatican Egyptian Obelisk, often simply called the Vatican Obelisk, is situated in the middle of St Peter’s Square and, standing 84 feet (25.5 meters) high, it’s the second-largest of the 13 remaining obelisks in Rome. It has survived two millennia of world history and was brought from Heliopolis to Rome on the order of Caligula in 37 A.D. as a demonstration of power. In ancient times, it was located in the center of the Circus of Nero, but was moved in 1586 to the famous St Peter’s Square, which was built around it later on.

The obelisk draws the eye immediately, standing strong in the middle the piazza. It has done so for 2,000 years, as it is the only obelisk that hasn’t toppled since Roman times. According to legend, a metal globe on the top was supposed to hold the ashes of Julius Caesar and a relic from the cross from Jesus himself. The former was proven false, but the second claim? Nobody knows.

Practical Info

The Egyptian Obelisk lies smack in the middle of St Peter’s Square, one of the most important plazas in Rome. To get to the obelisk, take the Metro line A to the Ottaviano San Pietro stop, from where it is just a five-minute walk down the Via Ottaviano. The best view can be had near the fountains.

St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Italy

From $ 31

Vatnajokull National Park

Established in 2008 by combining Iceland’s former Jokulsargljufur and Skaftafell National Parks, Vatnajokull National Park is one of Europe’s largest national parks. It presents incredibly diverse and dramatic scenery including glacial plateaus, active volcanoes, towering ice caps, black-sand beaches, and terrain that is bubbling with geothermal activity. The park is dominated by the Vatnajokull glacier, Europe’s third-largest glacier, and contains Iceland’s highest mountain (Oraefajokull) and deepest lake (Jokulsarlon).

The Basics

The park’s southern territory of Skaftafell is the gateway to the most accessible area of the Vatnajokull glacier and one of the park’s most popular regions for outdoor activities. Visit the Skaftafell Visitor Center for information about attractions, hiking trails, and accommodations. Book an ice cave tour inside the Vatnajokull glacier or a hike on the Falljokull glacier, or book a longer day tour from Reykjavik that might also include visiting the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Things to Know Before You Go

Dress in layers, bring waterproof boots, and be prepared for the weather to change unexpectedly.
A park entrance fee is charged on a per-vehicle basis.
Hiking trails are marked according to level of difficulty and indicate which are appropriate for wheelchair users or visitors with limited mobility.

How to Get to There

To reach Vatnajokull National Park’s Skaftafell Visitor Center, you can either drive from Reykjavik (about four hours) or take a bus or organized tour. The town of Hofn is another park gateway, accessible from Reykjavik by regular flights or by bus.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Vatnajokull National Park is in summer when days are longest, trail conditions are best for hiking, and boat tours around the Jokulsarlon lagoon are possible. While crowds are sparse in the winter, daylight hours can be as few as four in mid-December and many sights may be inaccessible.

Highlights of Vatnajokull National Park

Vatnajokull National Park is enormous, so you may choose to focus on a few highlights. Svartifoss (Black Falls), named for the black lava columns surrounding the falls, is a short hike from Skaftafell in south Iceland. On the edge of the park in southeast Iceland, Jokulsarlon was formed when the Breidamerkurjokull glacier began to recede—now it is the deepest lake in the country. In the northeast, glacial rivers flowing from the Vatnajokull glacier formed the mighty Dettifoss waterfall, which stands 330 feet (100 meters) wide and drops 144 feet (44 meters).

Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland

From $ 140

Venice Jewish Ghetto (Campo del Ghetto)

Venice’s former Jewish ghetto (Campo del Ghetto Nuovo) is one of the most fascinating and poignant corners of the Floating City. The oldest Jewish ghetto in Italy is home to a number of 16th-century synagogues, the Jewish Museum, a small Holocaust memorial, and kosher restaurants and bakeries.

The Basics

The origins of the word ghetto can be traced back to Venice: gheto in Venetian means foundry and refers to the island where Venetian Jews were once confined after sunset by Venetian Republic decree. The area is divided into the Ghetto Nuovo (New Ghetto), and the adjacent Ghetto Vecchio (Old Ghetto), though the Ghetto Nuovo is actually the older of the two. Jews from across Europe settled in this neighborhood from the 16th to the 18th centuries, and each synagogue historically catered to a different nationality—German, Italian, Spanish, and Sephardic.

Today Campo del Ghetto Nuovo is still the center of the Venetian Jewish community and offers a glimpse into its history and culture. The ghetto’s Jewish Museum (Museo Ebraico) narrates local Jewish history with a collection of antique gold objects and textiles from ghetto artisans, historic religious texts and artifacts, and personal and household items from former residents. There is also a small Holocaust memorial in the neighborhood to honor the many residents deported during World War II. Book a Jewish ghetto walking tour with a guide to learn more about the ghetto, or pair your visit with a Cannaregio food tour or home cooking experience to explore local cuisine. The museum offers guided tours of the neighborhood’s historic synagogues, or you can book a private tour to view these historic places of worship more intimately.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Jewish ghetto is a must for those interested in Jewish culture and history.
With its narrow streets and quiet square, the ghetto is one of Venice’s most pleasant historic walking areas—and a lovely spot to snap photographs.
Jewish ghetto tours are on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
This area is also known for its excellent traditional kosher restaurants, so it’s a good place to stop for lunch or dinner.

How to Get There

The Jewish ghetto is in Venice’s Cannaregio neighborhood. Take the vaporetto (water bus) to the Ponte delle Guglie stop on the Fondamenta di Cannaregio.

When to Get There

As one of the main tourist destinations in Europe, Venice can be very crowded most of the year. To avoid the thickest throngs, visit in early spring or late fall. The December Hanukkah festivities in the historic ghetto, with music and celebrations with the traditional lighting of the menorah, make for a particularly beautiful time to visit.

Venice’s Historic Synagogues

The ghetto has five historic synagogues: the Schola Tedesca for the German community; the Schola Spagnola and the Schola Italiana for the Spanish and Italian communities, respectively; the Schola Levantina for the Sephardic community; and the Schola Canton, a private synagogue probably built by French emigrés.

Campo del Ghetto, Cannaregio sestiere, Venice, Italy

From $ 52

Vauban Dam (Barrage Vauban)

Built in 1690 by its namesake—legendary military engineer Sebastien Vauban—the Vauban Dam (Barrage Vauban) was designed not only as the city’s principal lock, but as an integral part of Strasbourg’s fortifications. Guarding the southwestern entrance to the Grande Île, the dam spans the width of the River Ill and has the capacity to flood the entire southern end of the town in case of attack.

Today the grand lock, with its 13 arches, magnificent sculptures and grass-topped terrace, is among the city’s most recognizable landmarks and makes a popular lookout point, offering panoramic views over the nearby Covered Bridges (Ponts Couverts), the Old Town canals and the distant Cathedral of Notre Dame.

Practical Info

The Vauban Dam is located on the River Ill at the southwest entrance to the Grande Île and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Barrage Vauban, Strasbourg, Alsace, France

Daily 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

From $ 70

Venetian Lagoon

Venice is a patchwork of many islands in the Venetian Lagoon, an enclosed bay on the Adriatic Sea that covers 212 square miles (549 square kilometers). After visiting the main Venetian islands, take a boat trip across the shallow lagoon to the outlying islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello.

The Basics

Italy’s Venetian Lagoon was formed by nature thousands of years ago, but human intervention over the past centuries—including hydraulic projects to prevent the lagoon from becoming a marsh and the drainage and construction of islands—has shaped the bay into what it is today.

The most popular way to explore the lagoon is by motorboat cruise from the city of Venice to quieter nearby islands such as Burano, famous for its lace and colorful buildings; Murano, known for its glass production; and Torcello, thought to be one of the first inhabited islands in the lagoon. For a romantic evening on the lagoon, opt for a Venice sunset cruise or a gondola ride along the canals in Venice proper fed by the waters of the lagoon.

Things to Know Before You Go

Most Venetian Lagoon cruises last about half a day (four hours), giving you time to disembark on each island and explore.
Confirm wheelchair accessibility for lagoon boat tours ahead of time.
Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat if touring by boat during the summer months.
The waters of the lagoon are generally quite calm, so cruises can be pleasant even for those who suffer from motion sickness.

How to Get There

The Venetian Lagoon straddles the provinces of Venice and Padua in northern Italy, but by far the easiest and most popular way to reach the lagoon is via the city of Venice either by plane, train, or car.

When to Get There

The lagoon can be choppy in winter, so the best time to cruise the waters is May to September, with the additional benefit of escaping the crowds that invade the main islands during these months. Venice has a number of festivals that take place in whole or in part on the lagoon; the most spectacular are Carnival in January and February, the Festa del Redentore in July, and the Festa della Madonna della Salute in November.

Acqua Alta

The water level in the Venetian lagoon varies dramatically during the year. Often, Venice experiences acqua alta (high water) in the wet winter months, when sea waters flood the low-lying areas of the city along the Grand Canal, including Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Market. The city sets up raised wooden walkways during acqua alta, so people can get around the flooded portions of the city without getting their feet wet.

Venice, Italy

From $ 23

Venetian Lighthouse

Perching on the end of the breakwater, the Venetian Lighthouse is the most striking of all the buildings around Chania’s imperious Venetian Harbour, and was constructed around 1570 when the town was under control of the Republic of Venice. It is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world and its spindly, butter-colored stone tower stretches up 69 feet (21 m) high. Last renovated in 2006, the tower was modified several times in the intervening centuries, gaining the mini-minaret above its light in 1839, when Ottoman Turks occupied Crete.

Although it’s no longer operational and closed to the public, the lighthouse is the landmark building in Chania and has an unusual three-part construction; its base has eight sides and its middle section has 16, while its upper reaches are circular. There’s an enjoyable stroll along the walls of the Venetian Harbour to admire its spectacular architecture and this is a romantic spot to linger when it’s illuminated after dark; better still, enjoy the view over an ouzo in one of Chania’s many harbour-side tavernas.

Practical Info

It’s slightly less than a mile (1.5 km) to walk to the lighthouse around the harbour walls. 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.

Eleftherios Venizelos Square, Chania, Crete, Greece

Closed to public

From $ 19

Vatican Gardens

The Vatican Gardens cover an impressive 57 acres (23 hectares)—more than half the entire area of the Vatican City-state—and include a Renaissance layout dotted with fountains, statues, and buildings dating as far back as the sixth century. The gardens were a humble expanse of orchards and vineyards until Pope Nicholas III moved his residence back to the Vatican from the Lateran Palace and enclosed the land with a wall in 1279.

The Basics

These lovely grounds are closed to the general public and can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Join an official small-group tour to enter the gardens through the Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani). Or, book a skip-the-line private tour that includes a walking tour of the Vatican Gardens to avoid the long lines. Vatican Gardens tours generally also include visits to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica, home to Michelangelo's Pieta.

Things to Know Before You Go

Vatican Gardens tours are especially interesting for avid gardeners.
Picking plants and flowers from the garden is strictly forbidden.
There is a security check at the entrance to the museums, so items like pocket knives, corkscrews, and umbrellas must be left at the coat check.
If your Vatican tour includes entrance to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica, be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
The Vatican Gardens are not wheelchair accessible and tours generally require quite a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

How to Get There

The Vatican Gardens are accessed through the Vatican Museums on Viale Vaticano in Vatican City. The closest metro station is Ottaviano on line A.

When to Get There

The gardens are most crowded at midday, so opt for a morning tour if you prefer a quieter experience. Spring and fall are considered the most beautiful seasons to view the gardens.

Vatican Gardens Highlights

In the 16th century, Pope Julius II commissioned Donato Bramante to rework the area into a Renaissance design; the architect installed a giant labyrinth, introduced Lebanese cedars, and built a fortified stone wall that’s still standing. In 1902, the Lourdes Grotto, a replica of the miraculous cave in France, was added.

Vatican City, Italy

Open Monday-Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday

Varies

From $ 98

Vasco da Gama Tower

Lisbon’s tallest building soars 145 meters above the Tagus River waterfront and it’s an impressive feat of engineering, with its lattice steelwork inspired by the sail of a Portuguese caravel ship. The Tower takes its name from legendary Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, and was built for the World Expo in 1998, when it served as an observation deck.

Today, the Vasco da Gama Tower is home to the luxurious 5-star Myriad hotel and is closed to the public, but non-guests can still ride the Parque das Nacoes cable car from the tower to the nearby Oceanarium and enjoy spectacular views over the riverfront. The Tower also forms part of the modern Parque das Nações complex, which stretches along the waterfront and includes the Lisbon Oceanarium, the Pavilion of Knowledge science museum, the Atlantic Pavilion concert venue, Lisbon Casino and the huge Vasco Da Gama shopping mall, along with a strip of bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

Practical Info

The Vasco da Gama Tower is located in the Parque das Nações complex on the banks of the Tagus River and is accessible only to guests of the Myriad hotel or restaurant. The Parque das Nacoes cable car runs from Vasco da Gama Tower to the Oceanarium and costs €3.95 for a single ticket or €5.90 for a return. The cable car is open daily from 10:30am to 8pm in summer and 11am to 6pm in winter.

Parque das Nacoes, Cais das Naus, Lisbon, Portugal

Cable car open daily, summer 10:30am-8pm, winter 11am-6pm

Cable car: €3.95 single, €5.90 return

From $ 41

Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon)

With its dramatic limestone cliffs and azure waters, the Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon) is the French Riviera's answer to the Grand Canyon. If you choose to escape the manicured glamour of St. Tropez and Cannes in favor of the Verdon Canyon, whose exceptional natural beauty provides opportunities to swim, sail, sunbathe, and rock climb on routes that stretch as far as the eye can see, you'll be startled by the beauty of one of France's most delightful secrets.

The Basics
Whether you're after adventure or relaxation, the Alpes de Haute Provence region has it all. The stretch of the Verdon River that flows between Castellane and Chasteuil boasts Class I-IV rapids, making it an ideal place for thrill seekers looking for rafting. Hiking trails abound, with the 9-mile (14-km) Sentier Martel trail ranking as one of the country's top treks, while the emerald waters of the Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon lake, nestled deep within the limestone canyon, prove the perfect place to swim or sunbathe. For rock climbers, the gorge provides ample adventures with its 15-mile (25-km) network of climbing routes.

Experience the best of Provence (Verdon Gorge included) on a day trip tour from Cannes, Aix-en-Provence, or Nice that also visits the picturesque pilgrimage site of Castellane and the medieval village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, famed for its pottery industry.

The majority of tours departing from Cannes, Aix-en-Provence, and Nice provide hotel pickup and drop-off.
Choose between a group tour or a private tour, both available with half- and full-day options.
Outdoor activities range from rock climbing to kayaking.
Be sure to bring sunscreen, hiking boots, and appropriate attire for outdoor Verdon Gorge adventures.

How to Get to Verdon Gorge
A couple of hours' drive west from St Tropez, the right bank of the Verdon Gorge is easy to reach from the north (on route D952 from Castellane to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie) by car. From the south, it's better to take to its left bank (on routes D71, D90 and D955 from Aiguines to Castellane). The Verdon Gorge is more difficult to access via public transport.

When to Get There
Undoubtedly, the summer months are the perfect time to visit the Verdon Gorge. Reliable sunshine makes all outdoor activities possible, while warm temperatures also allow visitors to camp at the region's many campsites. During summer, tours always pay a visit to the scenic Valensole Plateau and Grasse to see vivid lavender fields burst into bloom.

Alpes de Haute Provence, France

From $ 115

Vatican

The Vatican—formally known as the Vatican Museums—is an enormous complex of galleries holding some of Italy’s most important art, from paintings and sculptures to tapestries and classical antiquities. Adjoining St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican's miles of corridors connect buildings and courtyards housing the Pinacoteca, Egyptian Museum, Gallery of Tapestries, Pius-Clementine Museum, and Gallery of Maps. But the crown jewels are the Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's ceiling and The Last Judgment, and the 16th-century frescoes in the Raphael Rooms.

The Basics

The Vatican is the most popular attraction in Rome, hosting millions of visitors each year. Booking a small-group guided tour or skip-the-line access in advance is highly recommended. A private tour offering early access in the morning, before the museums are open to the general public, is an excellent way to enjoy the Vatican’s treasures in relative peace. Many group tours include visits to the museums and Sistine Chapel along with St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Gardens. There is a tremendous amount to take in here, so if you are traveling as a family with young children who may get overwhelmed, consider a guided kid-friendly tour that focuses on the Vatican highlights.

Things to Know Before You Go

Entry lines often stretch for blocks, and wait times can be two or three hours, especially in summer. Book in advance.
Vatican Museums tickets include entrance to the Sistine Chapel, and the same opening hours apply.
Appropriate behavior and attire (shoulders, knees, and abdomen covered) are required to enter the Sistine Chapel.
Security for entering the museum complex includes a metal detector.
There is a free cloakroom where you can check large bags, umbrellas, and luggage.

How to Get There

The Vatican Museums complex is adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. The Ottaviano station, on metro Line A, is about a five-minute walk away.

When to Get There

The Vatican sees crowds of travelers year-round. It is busiest in summer, when skip-the-line tickets or a private tour guide are essential; the museums are relatively less crowded during winter. At any time of year, the museums are most crowded at midday, so aim to visit in the early morning or late afternoon if you’re looking for a quieter experience.

Seeing the Pope at the Vatican

Each week, usually on Wednesday mornings, the pope and cardinals give a papal address in St. Peter’s Square. Throngs descend for the papal audience, so be sure to book official tickets in advance if you want to be assured a chance to see the pope deliver his weekly message.

Viale Vaticano, Vatican City, Italy

Varies

From $ 12