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Walls of Constantinople
Marking the boundaries of Istanbul’s historical center, the Walls of Constantinople still stand on the Old City peninsula. Built in the fourth and fifth centuries, the defensive walls were breached in 1453 when the Ottomans conquered Constantinople. Today many sections have been restored and cut through bustling historical neighborhoods.
The Basics
Strolling along and atop the Walls of Constantinople takes you through many historical Golden Horn neighborhoods, including Edirnekapi, Topkapi, and Yedikule. Historically, the walls had two layers and nine entry gates. A project to restore the walls began in the 1980s with partial financial support from UNESCO, yet even despite this, the World Monument Fund considers the walls an endangered site.
Many private and small-group city tours of the Golden Horn and Byzantine Istanbul visit the Walls of Constantinople. Often these tours also stop at the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, Eyup Sultan Mosque, the Chora Church (Kariye Museum), and Pierre Loti Hill.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Walls of Constantinople are a must-visit for all first-time visitors to Istanbul, especially history buffs. Kids enjoy climbing around on them, but be watchful as the walls’ steps and tops can be uneven.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the walls and tote drinking water.
- Most sections of the wall are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but there is no ramp access to the top of the walls.
How to Get There
The Walls of Constantinople span much of the Old City peninsula. The easiest places to start walking along the walls are at Yedikule Fortress, which is accessible by local bus, and at Ayvansaray. There are metro stops at various points in the wall, as well.
When to Get There
The walls are pleasant to visit at all times during the day, when the vibrant surrounding neighborhoods are bustling with locals as well as visitors. Visit earlier or later in the day to avoid the hot midday sun, though note that the walls are less safe after dark.
The Gardens of the Walls
Around certain sections of the walls are historical gardens, called bostan, that historically provided fruits, vegetables, and greens to the adjacent neighborhoods. Though many of these gardens have been lost over time to development, a few are still maintained around Yedikule and other districts flanking the Walls of Constantinople.
Address: Turkey
From $ 31
Warsaw Royal Castle (Zamek Krolewski)
Built in the beginning of the 17th century, the Royal Castle of Warsaw - or Zamek Krolewski - marks the entrance to Old Town, and was the official seat of the Polish monarchy up until the beginning of the 19th century, and also housed the Polish Parliament throughout history. Although, like most of Old Town, the castle was destroyed during World War II, it underwent major reconstruction between 1971 and 1984, and is now fully open to the public.
The beautiful brick facade of the castle is bookended by the bulbous spires so common to Polish architecture, and the castle square alone is worth visiting. In addition to the classic Polish architecture, Italian influences are strong, as the palace was designed by an Italian architect. As such, the building is exquisite, and should be on every Warsaw visitor's agenda.
Containing an incredible collection of artwork and art objects, the interior of the castle is a beautiful also houses part of the National Museum, as well as functioning as a frequent meeting place for the Ministry of Culture. The different rooms of the palace are decorated with amazing attention and fealty to the original state, before the war. Be sure to pick out the two Rembrandts that were donated in 1994 by the Countess Karolina Lanckoronska.
Practical Info
The palace is hard to miss coming into Old Town, sitting right on the Vistula River, and can be accessed easily by tram or bus, at either the Stare Miasto or Pl. Kamkowy stops.
The admission price varies depending upon which rooms and collections you wish to see. Entry into the permanent exhibitions is free on Sundays, but tickets are limited, and tour guides are not available. Also, be aware that no visitors are allowed entry one hour before the palace officially closes.
Address: Pl. Zamkowy 4, Warsaw 00-277, Poland
Hours: Open Tues - Sat 10am - 4pm, Sun 11am - 4pm, Closed Mondays
Admission: Adults: 22PLN
From $ 18
Warsaw Old Town
Almost entirely destroyed during WWII, Warsaw’s historic Old Town underwent an extensive restoration that transformed the area into a vibrant riverfront hub. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the neighborhood boasts striking recreations of 17th- and 18th-century structures, as well as the Warsaw History Museum.
The Basics
A popular day trip destination from Lodz or Krakow, Warsaw Old Town is famous for its ornate buildings, expansive squares, and rich cultural history. Walking, cycling, and Segway tours provide fresh air and a close-up view of city highlights such as the Royal Castle, Grand Market Square, and Palace of Culture and Science. Car and bus tours are also available, including group and private excursions in a retro bus or Fiat car. If you’d rather explore on your own schedule, hop-on hop-off bus tours are a good option.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Warsaw is magical at night with illuminated fountains and buildings.
- Be sure to sample Poland’s iconic dumplings (pierogi) at a local restaurant.
- Warsaw is Poland's city of transformation—a fascinating place for history and culture fans.
How to Get There
Warsaw has two airports—Warsaw Chopin and Warsaw Modlin. The closest airport is Warsaw Chopin, which is roughly 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) from the city center. There is a train link that connects the airport with the city center (Warszawa Centralna station). The public transport system consists of buses, trams, and metro lines—conveniently, they all use the same ticketing system.
When to Get There
There is plenty to see and do in Warsaw throughout the year. When it comes to weather, the best months to visit are between April and October, as Warsaw is typically freezing during winter. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s a good idea to avoid July and August (the peak tourist season).
Where to Eat and Drink in Warsaw Old Town
There are plenty of wonderful restaurants in Warsaw Old Town. If you want to try traditional Polish food with eco-friendly ingredients, be sure to visit Polka. Another Warsaw spot known for its Polish hunting cuisine is Przy Zamku. If you want to try local Polish drinks, Pasieka is an unusual restaurant with mead drinking rooms.
Address: Warsaw, Poland
From $ 18
Walls of Avila
A popular day trip from Madrid, the ancient Walls of Avila are the remnants of the medieval bastion surrounding the provincial capital of Avila. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed walls are renowned as one of Europe’s finest examples of a medieval wall, impressively preserved and stretching for 2.5 km.
Dating back to 1090, the Walls of Avila took almost 600 years to complete and feature 88 towers and 6 gates along their length. Towering 12 meters high, the walls are an imposing sight and walking along the top is a popular pastime for visitors, providing expansive views over the city. Only around half of the walls circumference is walkable from the top, but exploring the city periphery from the ground is still a fascinating stroll, taking in the elaborately carved stone gateways.
Inside the walls, the hilltop city of Avila is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and as the birthplace of mystic Saint Teresa of Jesus has become an important pilgrimage site. The 12th-century Gothic Cathedral, the Romanesque Bascilia de San Vicente and the Convent of Saint Teresa are also key attractions, all easily to find inside the walls.
Dating back to 1090, the Walls of Avila took almost 600 years to complete and feature 88 towers and 6 gates along their length. Towering 12 meters high, the walls are an imposing sight and walking along the top is a popular pastime for visitors, providing expansive views over the city. Only around half of the walls circumference is walkable from the top, but exploring the city periphery from the ground is still a fascinating stroll, taking in the elaborately carved stone gateways.
Inside the walls, the hilltop city of Avila is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and as the birthplace of mystic Saint Teresa of Jesus has become an important pilgrimage site. The 12th-century Gothic Cathedral, the Romanesque Bascilia de San Vicente and the Convent of Saint Teresa are also key attractions, all easily to find inside the walls.
Address: Avila, Spain
Hours: Mar 29 - Oct 27: Tue-Sun 10am-8pm; Oct 28 - Mar 28: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm. Open Mondays June-Aug
Admission: General 5 EUR, Student/Child 3.5 EUR
From $ 31
Walt Disney Studios Park
Most visitors to Disneyland Paris make a beeline for the Disneyland Park, but don’t miss out on a trip to the adjoining Walt Disney Studios Park too, where you’ll find even more shows, rides and Disney-themed fun. The smaller of Disneyland Paris’ two theme parks is devoted to unveiling the magic behind the movies and it’s designed like a Hollywood movie studio, with four distinct areas - Front Lot, Toon Studios, Production Courtyard and Backlot.
As well as taking a studio tram tour, watching dazzling displays of stunts and special effects and learning how your favorite Disney films were created, there’s also a host of thrilling rides and iconic Disney characters to meet. Highlights include the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, Ratatouille: The Ride, Flying Carpets Over Agrabah, and the Toy Story Playland.
Disneyland© Paris
Disneyland© Paris
Practical Info
Walt Disney Studios Park is located at Disneyland Paris, 32 km east of central Paris, and can be reached by train from the city or shuttle bus from the Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports.
Address: Place des Passagers du Vent, Chessy, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 61
Waterpark Rhodes
Waterpark Rhodes is the largest waterpark in Greece, covering more than 100,000 square meters. It offers a great selection of water slides for all ages, as well as traditional fair attractions, restaurants and snack bars. The park features five extreme slides: the Kamikaze, the Free Fall, the Turbo, the Space Bowl and the Twister. It also has several slides open to all ages, including the Boomerang, Rafting Slide, two Black Hole slides and the Crazy Cone Slide. Beyond the water slides, visitors can relax in the wave pool or enjoy funfair attractions like bumper cars and a giant wheel that stands 35 meters tall.
Practical Info
Waterpark Rhodes is located 12 kilometers from Rhodes, opposite the hotel Esperos Palace. A free bus transfer is available from the city center of Rhodes and from the south of the island. Rather than paying with cash in the park, visitors load money onto a waterproof wristband known as Splash Cash that they use to pay at shops and snack bar stands throughout the park.
Address: Faliraki, Rhodes, Greece
Hours: May, September and October, daily 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; June, July and August, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission: 24 Euro
From $ 28
Water Fountains (Jet d'Eau)
If you’ve seen a panoramic view of Geneva you’ve most likely seen the huge lake Water Fountains, or Jet d’Eau, with its commanding position at the point where the River Rhône empties into Lake Geneva. It started life in the 19th century as a humble safety valve for a hydraulic installation, but is now the city’s foremost symbol.
With every second, some 130 gallons of water are propelled at 125 miles an hour to a maximum height of 150 yards (that's 500 liters at 200 km/h reaching 140 meters). The water shoots into the air before descending in a graceful fan shape back down to the lake, but its exact destination is determined by the strength and direction of the wind. In the warmer months, the fountain is lit during the evening until 11 o’clock.
Practical Info
You can get up close and personal with the Jet d’Eau on to the Jetée des Eaux Vives (off Quai Gustave Ador), though a drenching is a distinct possibility. Alternatively, the Jardin Anglais is a short stroll along the shore and offers a safer vantage point.
Address: Quai du Général-Guisan, Geneva 1204, Switzerland
Hours: Closed for maintenance for most of November and not operational in cold weather.
Admission: Free
From $ 49
Warner Bros Studio London
Step into the magical world of Harry Potter and journey behind the scenes of one of the most successful film series of all time at the Warner Bros Studio London – The Making of Harry Potter. Fans can step inside memorable sets such as Diagon Alley, Dumbledore's office, and the Great Hall; discover behind-the-scenes secrets and special effects used in the Harry Potter movies; and admire a huge collection of costumes, iconic props, and interactive exhibitions.
The Basics
Visiting the Warner Bros Studio is only possible by guided tour, with most tours including return transportation from London. Potter fanatics can also combine a studio tour with stops at other notable Harry Potter film locations in England, such as Platform 9¾ at Kings Cross St. Pancras in London or the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College in Oxford.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets to the Warner Bros Studio must be booked in advance—each visitor is given an assigned time slot.
- Be sure to bring your camera and comfortable shoes, as there’s lots to explore on a walking tour.
- Printed guidebooks and digital guides are available in nine different languages.
- Most areas of the studio are wheelchair accessible, although a few of the sets have uneven ground that may make access difficult.
- Free WiFi is available on-site.
How to Get There
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is located in Watford, about 20 miles (32 km) northwest of central London. The closest railway station is Watford Junction, from where direct services run from London Euston and take about 20 minutes—shuttle buses run from the station to the studio.
When to Get There
The Warner Bros Studio is open all year round, but special events are often held during school holidays and celebrations. At Christmas time, the annual Hogwarts in the Snow event brings a host of seasonal festivities, while at Halloween, the sets get a spooky makeover.
Magical Moments on the Harry Potter Studio Tour
Immerse yourself in JK Rowling’s wizarding world by hopping aboard the original Hogwarts Express steam train, wandering through the Forbidden Forest and the Dark Arts exhibitions, and taking a peek inside Hagrid’s Hut, the Gryffindor Common Room, and the Ministry of Magic. You can even try on costumes, taste a cup of Butterbeer or a Butterbeer ice cream (extra cost), or pose for a green-screen photo to see yourself “flying” on a broomstick. Don’t forget to pick up a wand or another piece of official Harry Potter fan merchandise in the Studio Gift Shop.
Address: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, England
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 100
Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum
The Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum is one of three museums that make up the Viking Triangle in Waterford, Ireland. It is Ireland’s only purpose-built medieval museum and features two medieval chambers: the 13th century Choristers’ Hall and the 15th century Mayor’s Wine Vault. The latter is the oldest wine vault in Ireland, built around 1440.
Visitors to the Medieval Museum have the opportunity to see an impressive collection of historical treasures, including the Relic of the True Cross, acquired by Pope Paschal II during the First Crusade, and King Henry VIII’s Cap of Maintenance, the only piece of the king’s wardrobe to survive anywhere in the world. Also on display are the Great Charter Roll of Waterford from the 14th century, the Sword of King Edward IV, the Cloth of Gold Vestments from the 15th century, the Great Parchment Book of Waterford, which contains city records from 1356 to 1649, and the Luker Chalice, the oldest Waterford chalice in existence.
Practical Info
The museum is open daily year round, except Christmas Day, St Stephen’s Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 p.m. September to May); Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. September to May); and Sundays and bank holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 p.m. September to May). The last admission is at 5:20 p.m. (4:20 p.m. September to May). Admission is 7 Euros or 10 Euros for a combined ticket with the Bishop’s Palace. Tours are available and take about 45 minutes.
Address: Cathedral Square, Waterford, Ireland
Admission: Adults: 7 Euros
From $ 8
Warnemunde Cruise Port
With its lively promenade and sandy beaches, Warnemünde is one of Germany’s most popular seaside resorts. But for cruise visitors the northern port town is best known for its proximity to Berlin, just two hours away, and other nearby attractions.
The Basics
Day tour destinations from Warnemünde include Rostock (7.5 miles/12 kilometers south), Potsdam (146 miles/235 kilometers south), and Berlin (150 miles/240 kilometers southeast). Full-day shore excursions run to Berlin, where you can take in the many attractions of the German capital, including the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, the Holocaust Memorial, and the remains of the Berlin Wall; or Potsdam, the former home of the Prussian kings and one of Germany’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Small-group and private tours are often covered by a worry-free policy, offering guaranteed on-time return to your cruise ship.
How to Get to Berlin from Warnemünde Port
Ships dock at both Warnemünde on the Baltic Sea coast and Rostock, just up the river, and most ships run free shuttles between the two ports and Warnemunde town center. In Warnemünde, the docks are located right next to the train station, and it’s an easy 10- to 15-minute walk into town. To travel to Berlin or Potsdam on a day trip, the only feasible option is to prebook a shore excursion by chartered train or bus, as public transportation links can take several hours.
Port Information
Warnemünde is one of Germany’s most popular seaports, visited by cruise liners operated by Princess, MSC, AIDA, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Costa, among others. Locals speak German, although English is widely understood. The currency is the euro, available from banks and ATMs in the town center.
Address: Warnemunde, Germany
From $ 228
Wastwater Lake
England’s deepest lake and the focal point of one of the Lake District’s most striking vistas, Wastwater Lake is best known for its rugged screes – the rocky cliff faces that plummet into the water along the east bank. With its inky blue waters and backdrop of craggy peaks, including Red Pike, Great Gable and Scafell Pike, England’s highest Mountain, it’s easy to see why the remote lake was named “Britain's Favorite View” back in 2007.
The main activity at Wastwater Lake is hiking and a network of trails run along the waterfront and out into the surrounding mountains and Wasdale Valley, or else it’s possible to rent a kayak or canoe to cruise around the lake (sailing and motor boats are banned).
Practical Info
Wastwater Lake is located in the western part of the Lake District National Park.
Address: Lake District, England
From $ 62
Waterford Crystal
Waterford Crystal, the prestigious brand behind New York City’s Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball and the chandeliers at Westminster Abbey, was founded back in 1783. These days, the public can visit the main crystal factory complex to observe skilled craftsmen blowing the molten crystal or browse a collection of dazzling crystal pieces.
The Basics
Visitors can get inside the facility during a guided tour. Factory tours, lasting around 90 minutes, give visitors an overview of the crystal-making process—from how it’s blown, molded, shaped, cut, engraved, and finished. The factory also showcases examples of the acclaimed crystal in the on-site retail store and showroom. Dublin-based travelers can tour the factory as part of daylong rail trips to Waterford and Kilkenny or on longer multi-day tours around Southeast Ireland.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Learn about the legacy of Irish glassmaking.
- The Waterford Crystal facility is wheelchair accessible.
- A café on-site sells drinks and food, much of which is locally sourced.
How to Get There
The House of Waterford Crystal factory is situated on the mall in the center of Waterford City in Southeast Ireland. The factory is about a 20-minute walk from Waterford Plunkett railway station. Parking is available at a pay-and-display car park directly behind the factory.
When to Get There
The factory is busiest during the summer months. Tour numbers are limited, so if you plan on visiting during July or August, get there early in the day to secure your spot. Midweek is quieter than the weekend.
Historic Waterford City
Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford is packed with historical attractions. After touring the factory, you may want to explore the lanes of the so-called Viking Triangle. You can learn about Waterford in times past at the enlightening Medieval Museum, at the 11th-century Reginald's Tower, which houses exhibits on Viking and medieval history, and at the Georgian-era Bishop's Palace, which chronicles life in 18th-century Waterford.
Address: 28 The Mall, Waterford, Ireland
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Warsaw Jewish Ghetto (Getto Zydowskie)
The haunting monuments and memorials of Warsaw’s former Jewish Ghetto (Getto Zydowskie) tell the story of its tragic past—during World War II, it was the largest Jewish Ghetto in all of Nazi-occupied Europe.
The Basics
Most Warsaw city tours and Old town walking tours make a stop at the Warsaw Jewish Ghetto, visiting sites such as the remains of the Ghetto Wall, the Monument of the Killed and Murdered in the East, the Warsaw Uprising Monument, the Umschlagplatz Monument, and the Monument to the Ghetto Heroes. For a more comprehensive insight, opt for a Jewish history and heritage tour, or pay a visit to the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most of the main sites of the Warsaw Ghetto are wheelchair accessible, but there are some narrow lanes and uneven streets to navigate
How to Get There
The Warsaw Ghetto is located at the border of the Old and New Towns and is easy to reach on foot from many of Warsaw’s central attractions. Alternatively, ride the train to Warsaw Central Station or take the tram (1, 22, or 27) to Cm. Zydowski stop.
When to Get There
If you’re exploring Warsaw in the busy summer months, aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit to avoid the tour groups. Alternatively, the most moving time to visit is on International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) when an emotional ceremony is held in front of the Monument to the Ghetto Heroes.
The History of the Warsaw Jewish Ghetto
Before World War II, there were over 400,000 Jews living in Warsaw, and by 1942, all members of the Jewish community were forced into the German-constructed ghetto, demarcated by a 10-foot (3-meter) high wall circling around a specified sector of the Jewish district. In addition to being the restrained living quarters of the Jewish community during the Nazi occupation, the Warsaw Ghetto was also the place from which thousands of men, women, and children were dispatched to the Treblinka Concentration camp in the summer of 1942, which, in turn, led to the Ghetto Uprising.
Address: Warsaw, Poland
Hours: Open Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 41
Waterloo Battlefield
As the setting of one of the most illustrious battles in military history, Waterloo Battlefield requires very little presentation. The ultimate defeat of Napoleon and the French army, the glorious win of the Seventh Coalition; the Battle of Waterloo was somewhat short-lived in comparison to others but its length is in no way correlated to its significance.
Napoleon had been exiled to Elba by the Treaty of Fontainebleau in 1814; worried about his wife and son who had returned to Austria and concerned he would be banished to a remote island, he escaped and started governing again despite international threats. His return to power in March 1815 was a pacifist one, but his enemies did not believe in his noble intentions for one minute; a pan-European coalition emerged at the Congress of Vienna (the precursor of the United Nations), which aimed to provide long-term peace on the continent by settling critical issues surfacing from the Napoleonic Wars and balancing the powers; many European Great Powers refused to recognize Napoleon as Emperor of the French upon his return from exile. The Seventh Coalition mobilized large armies led by the Duke of Wellington and Prussian-born Gebhard von Blücher; they gathered at the northeastern border of France and prepared for battle. Napoleon’s strategy was to isolate the two armies and obliterate each one separately in order to avoid the invasion of France, but the French army was soon routed out - effectively ending Napoleon's rule as Emperor of the French.
Practical Info
Waterloo Battlefield is located 30 kilometers south of Brussels in Belgium. It can be reached by car via routes RD and junction 26 in 30 minutes. Entry costs €13.50 per adult, €11 per student and €8 for children aged 7-17. The battlefield is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. between April and September, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. between October and March, with the last admission 30 minutes before the battlefield closes.
Address: Waterloo Battlefield, Braine-l'Alleud 1420, Belgium
Hours: Daily April-Sep 9:30am-6:30pm & Oct-March 10am-5pm
Admission: Adult €13.50, Student €11, Children (Age 7-17) €8
From $ 110
Wallenstein Palace Gardens
Located in Mala Straná (Lower Town) on the left bank of the River Vltava, the 17th-century, Baroque Wallenstein Palace was built by military commander Albrecht von Wallenstein, who achieved great success during the Thirty Years War of 1618–48. He used his wealth to create an extraordinary garden around the palace, filled with fountains and Mannerist bronzes of heroes from Greek mythology created by the Dutch sculptor Adrian de Vries. Von Wallenstein’s fantastical parklands were completed in 1630 but he was murdered four years later at the command of Emperor Ferdinand II, who felt threatened by his power.
Today Wallenstein Palace is home to the Czech Senate and only open occasionally for guided tours; in summer there are concerts in the palace’s frescoed loggia. The Wallenstein Gardens (Valdstejnska zahrada), however, are free to visit; they are a spectacle of bizarre grottoes and follies, neat ornamental topiary, and pathways lines with bronze statues (copies of the originals, which were stolen). A vast statue of Hercules stands over a pond full of ornamental fish, peacocks roam freely and there’s a refuge for owls. Wallenstein is a tranquil spot to linger after visiting Prague Castle and the gardens can also be enjoyed as part of walking tours of Mala Straná.
Practical Info
Valdštejnské náměstí 4, Prague 1. Opening hours daily Apr–Oct 9am–7pm. Admission free. Metro Line A to Malostranská.
Address: Valdštejnské náměstí 4, Prague, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic 118 01, Czech Republic
Hours: Open daily Apr–Oct 9am–7pm
From $ 35
Warwick Castle
In 1608 William the Conqueror built Warwick Castle, one of England’s most magnificent medieval castles, on the banks of the River Avon and encircled by beautiful parklands. Now a historical theme park run by Merlin Entertainments, it’s a full-on medieval experience filled with fascinating exhibits, interactive tours, and activities for the whole family.
The Basics
A Warwick Castle tour includes access to the castle’s armory, state rooms, and Great Hall, as well as the towers, ramparts, and gardens. Optional extras include entrance to the Castle Dungeon Experience or a traditional cream tea at the Warwick Castle Conservatory Tea House. Warwick Castle tours from London are often combined with a visit to William Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, the university city of Oxford, or the Cotswolds.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Warwick Castle is a must-see for history, architecture, and castle buffs.
- Visitor facilities include luggage lockers, ATMs, restaurants, gift shops, and car parking (fees apply).
- Audio guides are available in eight different languages.
- Some parts of the castle are accessible to wheelchair users. Strollers are not allowed inside the castle, but free stroller storage is available.
How to Get There
Warwick Castle is located 30 miles (48 kilometers) southeast of Birmingham, about a 40-minute drive; from central London, it’s a 2-hour drive along the M40. Direct trains run from London’s Marylebone station to Warwick Station, about a mile from the castle.
When to Get There
Warwick Castle is open daily throughout the year, but the busiest times to visit are July, August, and during school holidays. Although visiting outside of these times is advisable if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, many of the castle’s shows and activities close down or offer limited availability in low season. The most atmospheric times to visit include Christmas and Easter, when the castle hosts special seasonal events and festivities.
Things to Do at Warwick Castle
There’s loads to see and do at Warwick Castle. Watch one of the world’s largest working catapults launch a flaming fireball, learn about the castle’s history at the Time Tower multimedia exhibition, attend a medieval banquet, or watch the spectacular Dragon Slayer show (selected dates in August only), which includes fire jousting, daring stunts, and a thrilling display of lights and pyrotechnics.
Kids will love following the Horrible Histories adventure maze, dressing up in period costumes, and watching displays of medieval jousting, archery, and falconry. You can even spend a night at the castle, either staying in one of the luxury Tower Suites, a lodge, or a glamping tent in the Knight’s Village.
Address: Warwick, Warwickshire CV34 4QU, England
Hours: Open daily, 10am - 4pm
Admission: Adults: £14.55
From $ 69
Warsaw Old Town Square Market
The Old Town Square Market - or Rynek Starego Miasta - is the oldest part of Warsaw, originally constructed in the late 13th century. After being destroyed by the German army, it was restored after World War II to its beautiful prewar charm, lined with 17th and 18th century houses, shops, and restaurants. The historic center of Warsaw, cafe life is at its height with street vendors and performers abound.
Stop to try a local beer or taste traditional Polish fare and admire the incredible architecture all around you. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area is not to be missed.
Stop to try a local beer or taste traditional Polish fare and admire the incredible architecture all around you. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area is not to be missed.
Practical Info
Located right on the river in the heart of Warsaw, the Old Town Square Market is a quick walk from the Stare Miasto tram stop, from which the 13, 23, 26, and 32 lines.
Address: Warsaw 00-272, Poland
From $ 40
Water Planet Aqua Park
The biggest water park on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast sits southeast of Antalya in between Manavgat and Alanya, overlooking the sparkling turquoise sea. With 24 rides from family slides to Kamikaze chutes, the park is a fun-filled day out for the whole family. There’s a splash pool full of interactive animated toys for toddlers to enjoy while all kids love floating around the Lazy Rivers and splashing in the wave pools. Several adrenaline-pumping slides are perfect for thrill-seeking teens, including the spiraling Black Hole and the Four Twisters. If that’s not enough, try the 70-meter (230-foot) bungee jump or rafting on the wave pool (both extra charge). Lifeguards are on duty at all the rides and facilities include sun loungers, showers, changing rooms and lockers, several restaurant and bar options – from fast food to à la carte – a henna tattoo parlor and a few souvenir stalls.
Practical Info
Okurcalar Mevkii Alanya, Antalya. Open May–Sept 10am–5pm; admission from 60 lira. A courtesy coach makes daily pick-ups at hotels in Antalya between 9:50am and 10:30am.
Address: Okurcalar Mevkii, Antalya 07415, Turkey
Hours: May–Sept 10am–5pm
Admission: 60 lira
From $ 25
Waterlooplein Market
Amsterdam’s largest and oldest daily flea market, Waterlooplein market has a vibrant history dating back to 1893 and remains one of the city’s liveliest markets, sprawled between the Leprozengracht and Houtgracht canals. Held from Monday to Saturday in the former Jewish quarter, the market has long been at the center of Amsterdam’s bohemian culture and remains one of the prime gathering spots for the city’s youth.
Browsing the stalls offers a snapshot of the city’s cosmopolitan culture with alternative and vintage clothing, music posters and memorabilia and DVDs all on sale, along with hair braiding artists and tattoo booths. Today, the market encompasses around 300 stalls, selling everything from quirky antiques and second hand goods to cheap and cheerful souvenirs and general bric-a-brac. Even if you’re not buying, shimmying your way through the crowds of locals and tourists provides the perfect opportunity to soak up Amsterdam’s eclectic vibe.
Browsing the stalls offers a snapshot of the city’s cosmopolitan culture with alternative and vintage clothing, music posters and memorabilia and DVDs all on sale, along with hair braiding artists and tattoo booths. Today, the market encompasses around 300 stalls, selling everything from quirky antiques and second hand goods to cheap and cheerful souvenirs and general bric-a-brac. Even if you’re not buying, shimmying your way through the crowds of locals and tourists provides the perfect opportunity to soak up Amsterdam’s eclectic vibe.
Address: Waterlooplein 2, Amsterdam, Netherlands
From $ 18
Wawel Hill
The very symbol of the nation, the hilltop Wawel, pronounced vah-vel; is more steeped in Polish history than any other place in the country. It was the seat of the kings for over 500 years from the early days of the Polish state, and even after the centre of power moved to Warsaw in the late 16th century it retained much of its symbolic power. Today it is the silent guardian of a millennium of Polish history and the most visited site in the country.
The way to Wawel Hill begins at the southern end of ul Kanonicza, from where a lane leads uphill. Past the equestrian statue of Tadeusz Kościuszko, it turns to the left leading to a vast open central square surrounded by several buildings, of which the Wawel Cathedral and Wawel Castle are the major attractions. Plan on at least four hours up here if you want anything more than just a glance over the place. In the southwestern part of the complex you'll find a visitors centre as well as a gift shop, post office and café with outside terrace.
The way to Wawel Hill begins at the southern end of ul Kanonicza, from where a lane leads uphill. Past the equestrian statue of Tadeusz Kościuszko, it turns to the left leading to a vast open central square surrounded by several buildings, of which the Wawel Cathedral and Wawel Castle are the major attractions. Plan on at least four hours up here if you want anything more than just a glance over the place. In the southwestern part of the complex you'll find a visitors centre as well as a gift shop, post office and café with outside terrace.
Practical Info
Wawel Hill is a short walk from the Old Town of Krakow. Or catch a number 10 tram but be sure to validate your ticket onboard as there are often inspectors roving around. Be aware of the different opening hours of all the attractions. In summer it's best to come early as there may be long queues for tickets later in the day. Alternatively, you can prebook your tickets in advance.
Address: Wawel, Krakow 31-001, Poland
Hours: Open Daily 6am - 8 pm (April - September), 6am - 6pm (October - March)
Admission: Free
From $ 23