Choose from 4,530 Fun Things to Do in Europe
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ZSL London Zoo
The world’s oldest scientific zoo with a history dating back to 1828, the ZSL (Zoological Society of London) London Zoo remains one of the city’s most popular family attractions. The zoo’s myriad animal residents include over 750 species, from mighty lions to cute penguins to creepie crawlies.
The Basics
A London Zoo entry ticket includes full access to the zoo’s many attractions, as well as daily events such as zookeeper talks and animal feedings. From February to October, it’s also possible to upgrade to include skip-the-line access. If you’re sightseeing in London, it might be worth investing in a London Pass, which includes free entrance to the zoo, as well as other London attractions such as the View from the Shard and the Tower of London, plus a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lines can be long, especially in peak season, so buy tickets in advance.
- On-site facilities include paid storage lockers, water fountains, and restaurants and gift shops.
- Paid parking is available but limited; visitors are encouraged to arrive by public transport.
- Visitors are required to pass through security and submit to bag checks before entrance to the zoo.
- The ZSL London Zoo is wheelchair accessible and discounted entrance fees are available.
How to Get There
Camden Town (Northern line) is the closest Tube station; from there, it’s a short walk to the zoo entrance. There are also several buses that run from Camden past the zoo. You can also reach the zoo from the Baker Street (Bakerloo, Metropolitan, Circle, and Hammersmith & City lines) or Regent's Park (Bakerloo line) Tube stations and then walking through the scenic Regent’s Park.
When to Get There
London Zoo is open daily year round, although opening times vary slightly throughout the year. The busiest time to visit is in July and August or during school holidays; weekdays outside of these times are generally much quieter. To avoid the crowds, opt to visit on a rainy day; many of the outdoor viewing areas are covered, and there are a number of indoor exhibitions as well.
Wildlife Experiences at ZSL London Zoo
Highlights of a visit to ZSL London Zoo include the Tiger Territory, where you can marvel at endangered Sumatran tigers through floor-to-ceiling glass windows; the Gorilla Kingdom, where Western Lowland Gorillas roam freely in their African jungle habitat; the Land of the Lions, where walkways overlook mighty creatures; and the Penguin Beach, where 150 Macaroni and Humboldt penguins live in an enormous pool. Behind-the-scenes tours, zookeeper-for-a-day programs, and interactive BUGS sessions are also available for those wanting a more hands-on experience.
Address: Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, England
Admission: Prices vary by season
From $ 27
Zugspitze
Located close to the Austrian border and soaring to a height of 9,718 feet (2,962 meters), the snow-crowned Zugspitze is Germany's highest mountain and one of its most popular ski resorts. The views from the top are spectacular, spanning the German and Austrian Alps.
The Basics
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the starting point for scaling the Zugspitze. From there, trains run to the Eibsee, the lake at the foot of the mountain, where a cable car and cogwheel railway depart for the summit. A popular choice is to ride the cogwheel railway on the way up, then descend via the cable car, leaving enough time at the top to visit the Zugspitze exhibition and marvel at the 360° panoramic views.
Tours from Munich that follow a scenic route through the Bavarian Alps often include nearby attractions such as Neuschwanstein Castle or the Highline179 in Austria, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world.
Things to Know Before You Go
- At the top of the Zugspitze there is a souvenir shop and two restaurants, the Glaciergarden and the Sonnalpin.
- Be sure to dress warm, as there’s snow on the mountaintop even in summer.
- The Zugspitze cable cars and observation decks are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get to There
Trains run from Garmisch-Partenkirchen via Grainau to Eibsee; from there, you can either ride the cogwheel railway up the mountainside or take the Eibsee-Seilbahn cable car to the top. Travel time from Garmisch-Partenkirchen is about 75 minutes by train, or 35 minutes by cable car. From the Austrian side, cable cars run from Ehrwald to the summit and take around 10 minutes.
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit the Zugspitze all year-round, but the best views are on clear days. The ski season runs from October to May, while those who enjoy hiking or climbing should stick to the summer months.
Outdoor Activities at the Zugspitze
The Zugspitze is home to Germany's highest ski resort, a great destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter. The Zugspitze Glacier Ski Resort also has toboggan runs, and a half-pipe and fun park for snowboarders. During summer, hikers can explore trails at the base of the mountain, as well as around the summit. Experienced climbers can also tackle one of several routes to the Zugspitze summit, stopping overnight at a mountain hut.
Address: Garmisch-Partenkirchen 82491, Germany
From $ 117
Zurich Opera House
As the principal venue for the Zurich Opera since it opened its doors in 1891, the Zurich Opera House has garnered worldwide acclaim for its outstanding acoustics and wide variety of international performances. Originally called the ‘Stadttheater’, the venue was built on the site of the Actientheater, which burned down just a few years earlier, and staged its opening to a dramatic performance of Richard Wagner’s ‘Lohengrin’. Despite changing its name to the Zurich Opera House in 1964, the concert hall maintains its original Neo-classical façade, designed by Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer and held up by 1,800 oak pillars. Equally impressive is the Rococo style entrance foyer and auditorium, which seats 1,200 people and is notable for its intricate ceiling paintings that represent love, tragedy, comedy, music and poetry.
Practical Info
Today over 300 international operas, ballets, recitals and concerts
are held annually in the Opera House, including around 13 yearly opera
premieres, making it one of the busiest classical performance venues in
the world. As well as attending a show, visitors can also tour the opera
house, visiting the plush dressing rooms and rehearsal rooms, and
learning the secrets of the venue’s renowned lighting and acoustics.
Address: Falkenstrasse 1, Zurich 8008, Switzerland
Hours: Most Opera events are held in the evening
Admission: Price of tickets vary
From $ 35
Zoomarine
On the Italian coast about 23 miles from Rome is Zoomarine, a theme park that's part Sea World and part water park and fun for all ages.
Zoomarine covers more than 86 acres, and gives visitors a chance to enjoy the adventurous rides of a water park in between watching live shows. There are two giant pools for swimming and playing in the water, one of which has several water slides. The other pool is more laid back, with lounge chairs lining the perimeter. Both pools have life guards on duty.
The animal portion of the park features seals and sea lions, birds of prey, and dolphins – all of which have demonstrations or shows visitors can see just how intelligent these animals are. There is also a show featuring acrobatic high-divers and a 4D cinema. For thrill-seekers, there is also a roller coaster called “Vertigo” and a few other amusement park rides (some of them in water).
Practical Info
A ticket to Zoomarine includes all the shows, rides, pools, water slides and attractions of the park, though there are optional extras for purchase – including photos with the animals and up-close animal encounters.
Address: Via dei Romagnoli, Torvaianica, Lazio 00040, Italy
Hours: Late March-mid-September; hours vary by attraction/area – opening time 10am, closing time from 5-7pm
Admission: day ticket - €30 adults, €24 children (3.2-4.2 feet in height; below 3.2 feet free)
From $ 31
Zoo de La Flèche
Zoo de la Flèche claims to be the oldest zoo in France and currently hosts over 1,200 animals from 130 species (including 25 endangered species), originating from five continents and spread over 15 hectares. More than just an entertainment, the zoo aims to protect the animals as well as sensitize and educate visitors to the 21st century challenges our natural environment faces. The zoo offers three different shows: “Marine World”, which features seals, “Lords of the Skies” and its prey birds, as well as the “Parrot Jungle” show.
The zoo is mostly famous for its five epic sleepover safari experiences with polar bears, arctic wolves, lemurs, white tigers, and grizzly bears.
Practical Info
Zoo de la Flèche in located on Le Tertre Rouge street in La Flèche, central France. Opening hours vary throughout the year. Entry costs €21 per adult and €17 per child aged between 3 and 12 years old. The zoo is not accessible by public transit; it can be reached in 45 minutes from nearby Angers via routes A11, D323, and D306. It can also be reached from Le Mans in one hour via routes D323 and D104.
Address: Le Tertre Rouge, La Flèche, Pays de la Loire 72200, France
Hours: Nov 2–March 27 10am–5:30pm; March 28–Nov 1 9:30am–6pm; July–Aug 9:30am–7pm
Admission: Adult 12+: €21, Children 3-12+: €17
From $ 28
ZooParc de Beauval
ZooParc de Beauval is France’s largest and most diverse zoological park, with over 6,000 animals of 600 different species under its roof. Animals are classified under seven families: herbivores (giraffes, zebras, rhinos), birds (cockatoos, sea eagles, vultures), reptiles (chameleons, turtles, snakes, tortoises), fishes (clown fishes, piranhas, seahorses), big cats (tigers, lions, pumas), primates (macaques, lemurs, capuchin monkeys), and aquatic mammals (sea lions, manatees). Some of the specimens housed by ZooParc de Beauval are endangered and are kept in captivity for breeding purposes; one of the zoo’s mission is to help visitors preserve the Earth’s biodiversity through a variety of tips and tools.
In addition to basins, greenhouses, and other habitats, ZooParc de Beauval offers many shows between March and September.
Practical Info
ZooParc de Beauval is located in Saint-Aignan in central France. It is accessible by bus from Blois train station between April and September according to the train schedules. Transfers take about an hour and runs three times daily. Tickets cost €2. It can also be reached by car in one hour from nearby Tours via routes A85, D976, and D675. There is ample free parking on site. Zoo de Beauval is open every day of the year from 9 am including bank holidays. Schedules for the panda zone and the tropical greenhouses vary throughout the year. Admission fees are €29 per visitor aged over 11, and €23 for children aged between 3 and 10. There are three ZooParc themed hotels within the zoo’s vicinity.
Address: Saint-Aignan, Centre-Val de Loire 41110, France
Hours: Zoo de Beauval is open daily from 9 am including bank holidays. Schedules for the panda zone and the tropical greenhouses vary throughout the year.
Admission: Adult 11+: €29, Children 3-10+: €23
From $ 32
Eyjafjallajökull Volcano
Among Iceland’s most famous peaks, the notoriously difficult-to-pronounce Eyjafjallajökull volcano made headlines when it erupted in 2010, spewing an enormous cloud of volcanic ash that grounded air traffic all across Europe. The imposing, ice-capped volcano has three main peaks, the tallest of which reaches 5,417 feet (1,651 meters).
The Basics
While a few hardy explorers have managed to summit Eyjafjallajökull, ascending the volcano is considered dangerous, with a deadly crevasse-ridden glacier at the top. Many day tours of the south coast from Reykjavik, whether by car or Jeep, venture to Eyjafjallajökull volcano. These tours typically make stops at other destinations in south Iceland, such as Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, black-sand beaches at Dyrhólaey and Vik, the Thórsmörk valley, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. For aerial views of the crater, steaming hot springs, and rugged peaks, opt for a helicopter tour over the volcano.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Eyjafjallajökull volcano is a must for nature lovers.
- Eyjafjallajökull is still an active volcano, and as such, is best explored in the company of an experienced guide who can brief you on safety practices.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and warm, rainproof clothing.
- Due to uneven surfaces near the volcano, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Eyjafjallajökull is situated near Iceland’s south shore, just under two hours’ drive from Reykjavik. To get there, follow the Ring Road (Route 1) until Hvolsvöllur, then take the turnoff for Route 261. This route ends at a parking lot, from which it’s possible to view the volcano.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Eyjafjallajökull is during summer, when warmer temperatures and the midnight sun make exploring and hiking easier. Crowds are thinner during September and October.
Iceland’s Volcanoes
Though Eyjafjallajökull volcano may be better known among Europeans following its 2010 eruption, it is but one of many active volcanoes in Iceland. Its larger neighbor, Katla, just east of Eyjafjallajökull, is even more mighty and powerful. Katla, which lasts erupted in 1918, lies under the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap—the fourth-largest glacier in Iceland. It is feared that an eruption of Katla could melt the glacier and cause catastrophic flooding.
Address: Skogar, Iceland
Admission: Varies
From $ 81
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Among Iceland’s most famous peaks, the notoriously difficult-to-pronounce Eyjafjallajökull volcano made headlines when it erupted in 2010, spewing an enormous cloud of volcanic ash that grounded air traffic all across Europe. The imposing, ice-capped volcano has three main peaks, the tallest of which reaches 5,417 feet (1,651 meters).
The Basics
While a few hardy explorers have managed to summit Eyjafjallajökull, ascending the volcano is considered dangerous, with a deadly crevasse-ridden glacier at the top. Many day tours of the south coast from Reykjavik, whether by car or Jeep, venture to Eyjafjallajökull volcano. These tours typically make stops at other destinations in south Iceland, such as Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, black-sand beaches at Dyrhólaey and Vik, the Thórsmörk valley, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. For aerial views of the crater, steaming hot springs, and rugged peaks, opt for a helicopter tour over the volcano.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Eyjafjallajökull volcano is a must for nature lovers.
- Eyjafjallajökull is still an active volcano, and as such, is best explored in the company of an experienced guide who can brief you on safety practices.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and warm, rainproof clothing.
- Due to uneven surfaces near the volcano, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Eyjafjallajökull is situated near Iceland’s south shore, just under two hours’ drive from Reykjavik. To get there, follow the Ring Road (Route 1) until Hvolsvöllur, then take the turnoff for Route 261. This route ends at a parking lot, from which it’s possible to view the volcano.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Eyjafjallajökull is during summer, when warmer temperatures and the midnight sun make exploring and hiking easier. Crowds are thinner during September and October.
Iceland’s Volcanoes
Though Eyjafjallajökull volcano may be better known among Europeans following its 2010 eruption, it is but one of many active volcanoes in Iceland. Its larger neighbor, Katla, just east of Eyjafjallajökull, is even more mighty and powerful. Katla, which lasts erupted in 1918, lies under the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap—the fourth-largest glacier in Iceland. It is feared that an eruption of Katla could melt the glacier and cause catastrophic flooding.
Address: Vik, Iceland
From $ 89
Zizkov Television Tower
Prague’s bizarre Television Tower is a futuristic landmark on a skyline of Baroque roofs and church spires, located in the eastern suburb of Zizkov. Rising 709 ft (216 m) above the city, the tower was constructed between 1985 and 1992 to block ‘decadent’ Western TV transmissions; ironically the Soviet Union had collapsed by the time it was completed.
Awarded the strange accolade of being the ‘second-ugliest’ building in the world and also called the Tower Park Prague since its extensive refurbishment in 2012, the tower is famous for the ten giant baby sculptures crawling up its metal lower reaches; they were designed by controversial Czech pop artist David Cerny, whose work can be found throughout the city, including three more babies in Kampa Park.
A 305-ft (93-m) ride up the internal elevator leads to the Observation Tower, with multi-media displays and movies about Prague plus panoramic views over the Staré Město (Old Town) and right out to the concrete apartment blocks constructed during Soviet occupation — visit after dark to see the city sparkling below. Also inside the rocket-like tower are two classy restaurants, a bar and the aptly named One Room Hotel, which has just one stylish suite with a glass-walled bathroom 230 ft (70 m) above the city. Underground parking is found at the foot of Zizkov TV Tower, along with more restaurants, a mini-golf course and a petanque court.
Practical Info
Mahlerovy sady 1, Prague 3. Opening hours daily 8am–12 midnight. Admission adult 200 CZK; senior 150 CZK; students 140 CZK; children younger than 15 120 CZK; family 490 CZK. Metro Line A to Jiriho z Podebrad.
Address: Mahlerovy sady 1, Prague, Central Bohemian Region 130 00, Czech Republic
Hours: Open daily 8am–12 midnight
Admission: Adults: 200 CZK; Seniors: 150 CZK; Students: 140 CZK; Children: 120 CZK; Families: 490 CZK
From $ 32
Zlatni Rat Beach
Zlatni Rat Beach is one of Croatia’s most beautiful and unique beaches. Located on the southern end of Brac Island, this narrow sliver of land juts out into the azure sea. Pebble beaches on both sides of this V-shaped promontory are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and afternoon westerly winds make it a premiere windsurfing spot.
The Basics
Explore the unique beauty of Zlatni Rat Beach by setting sail to Brac Island from Split or Trogir.
Spend the afternoon sunbathing on one of Europe’s most visually stunning beaches and spy loads of fish as you snorkel in the crystal-clear water.
If you have more time, choose a tour that includes a trip to the the charming town of Bol, where you can tour a 15th-century monastery, sample local wine, and enjoy an authentic Croatian meal at a seaside cafe.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Zlatni Rat Beach is a pebble beach, so water shoes can make your visit more comfortable.
- The water is incredibly clear, so don’t forget your snorkel and fins.
- During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty throughout the day.
- Several seaside kiosks sell food and drinks and rent chairs and umbrellas.
- Make sure to have some coins, since you’ll need to pay to use the toilet on the beach.
- Watch out for nudists on the western side of the beach.
How to Get There
Most tours will deliver you directly to Zlatni Rat Beach from Split or Trogir by boat or ferry. Zlatni Rat Beach is also an easy walk from Bol and takes about 20–30 minutes following a lovely, tree-lined pathway. If you’d rather catch a ride, a taxi boat runs to the beach all day from the center of Bol.
When to Get There
If you want to avoid the crowds, visit in May and June or September and October. The water temperature will be cooler, but you’ll enjoy undisturbed views of the sea. Expect crowds in July and August, so arrive early in the day to secure a prime spot on the beach.
Other Things to Do on Brac Island
Brac Island is renowned for its wine, and there are several vineyards on the island worthy of a visit. Make sure to taste the sweet and dark dessert wine Prosek, traditionally from the Dalmatia islands. If you enjoy hiking, take a jaunt up Vidova Gora, the area’s highest peak, or explore Dragon’s Cave, a strange cavern filled with a collection of imaginative carvings only accessible by guided tour.
Address: Brac Island, Croatia
From $ 90
Langjökull
Iceland is famous for the extraordinary natural beauty of its volcanic-carved landscapes and more than ten per cent of the island is covered with ice. The nearest extensive glacier to the capital city of Reykjavik is Langjökull, which stretches across 367 miles sq (950 km sq) in the mid-western highlands and is the second-largest in the country. The glacier sits at 4,000 ft (1,200 m) above sea level and its melt waters travel through subterranean streams to feed Lake Þingvallavatn 32.25 miles (50 km) to the south. Over many millennia Langjökull’s ice has grown to a thickness of 1,650 ft (500 m), and in 2010 a system of vast manmade ice caves and tunnels were excavated underneath the glacier, big enough to be explored by eight-wheeled trucks, which venture underground to tour a mysterious world of dazzling blue and silver compacted ice.
Visiting Langjökull can be combined with a tour of the Golden Circle, a popular sightseeing route from Reykjavik that encompasses some of Iceland’s most extraordinary geographical phenomena, from geysers and volcanic craters to spectacular waterfalls such as Gullfoss. The snow-swept countryside around the glacier is also popular for snow mobile expeditions, cross-country (Nordic) ski-ing, trekking and mountaineering.
Practical Info
Langjökull is 12.5 miles (20 km) from Husafell down an unmade track, which is open June through September, weather permitting. Thanks to the unpredictability of the ice, it is not possible to make a private visit to the glacier.
Address: Iceland
From $ 87
Zuid
As its name suggest, Zuid is a district of Antwerp that lies south of the historic city center; currently enjoying a moment in the fickle flame of immense popularity, its wide boulevards crammed with on-trend clubs, bars, breweries and restaurants as well as small, stylish independent boutiques. Zuid’s carefully planned grid of streets were laid out in the late 1870s and the dock facilities on the River Scheldt were expanded southwards at the same time. When the docks became redundant, the district was virtually mothballed and fell from favor before being rediscovered in the 1980s as Antwerp saw a resurgence in her fortunes as a fashion and diamond center. Today Zuid has a several dramatic public monuments around its streets and piazzas, and a scattering of handsome Art Nouveau buildings; it is home to the Fotomuseum (FoMu) and the Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA) plus the city’s striking new law courts on the site of the former docks.
Practical Info
Easily accessible via walking from Antwerp’s city center.
Address: Antwerp, Flanders 2020, Belgium
From $ 29
Zwinger and Semperbau
Run under the auspices of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden (Dresden State Art Collections) along with 14 other museums, the Zwinger was constructed from 1710–32 by architect Matthäus Daniel Pöppelmann. It is a fanciful piece of Baroque styling with galleries connecting six pavilions encrusted with statues of gods from Greek mythology, fronted by an ornate courtyard garden and entered through the flamboyant Crown Gate. To the right of the Zwinger is the austere Semperbau (Semper Building), opened in 1855. Both galleries were destroyed by bombing in World War II and restored in the 1960s–70; today they are home to an incomparable collection of paintings and decorative arts.
The Zwinger Gallery offers two galleries: the Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon displays a wealth of early mechanical instruments such as globes and sextants, clocks and fob watches; and the Porzellansammlung has one of the best collections of porcelain in the world, showcasing Dresden, Meissen and Oriental china.
The neighboring Semperbau houses the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister (Old Masters’ Gallery), featuring famous works from the likes of Rubens, Vermeer, Rembrandt, Titian and Holbein; its spectacular major highlight is the glowing Sistine Madonna (1512) by Raphael.
Practical Info
Theaterplatz 1. Open Tue - Sun 1-am–6pm. Admission Mathematisch-Physikalischer Salon: adults €6, concessions €4.50, under 17 free. Ticket for all three galleries: adults €10, concessions €7.50, under 17 free. Trams 4, 8 or 9 to Theaterplatz.
Address: Theaterplatz 1, Dresden, Germany
Hours: Open Tue - Sun 1-am–6pm
Admission: Adults: €10
From $ 14
Zrmanja
Lying inland from Zadar in northern Croatia, the River Zrmanja rises in the Dinaric Alps and runs for 44 miles (70 km); the bulk of its course lies within the Velebit Nature Park before it empties in the Novigrad Sea after passing the cute, pastel-colored town of the same name built along its meandering banks. Along with its tributary the Krupa, the upper reaches of the Zrmanja are one of the country’s hottest spots for rafting and kayaking through its spectacular limestone canyons – in parts 656 feet (200 meters) deep – and underneath its tumbling cascades. The most spectacular falls are Veliki Buk, a crescent-shaped mini-Niagra where the pristine waters hurls itself 65.5 feet (20 meters) in two steps over a limestone cliff face; a popular hike to the falls starts at Muskovci, with amazing views over the lush Zrmanja river valley.
Practical Info
An hour’s drive east from Zadar. No previous experience is necessary for rafting trips; children must be aged six to participate and all participants must be able to swim. Safety equipment provided.
Address: Zadar, Croatia
From $ 46
Zurich Old Town (Altstadt)
With its striking 19th-century buildings and winding cobblestone lanes stretching along both sides of River Limmat, Zurich’s Old Town (Altstadt) is the most atmospheric part of the city and home to many principal tourist attractions.
The Basics
Old Town makes an ideal starting point for a Zurich sightseeing tour. Walking and bike tours of Zurich typically take in the highlights, including Church of Our Lady (Fraumunster) and Grossmunster cathedrals, St. Peter Church (Peterskirche), the Swiss National Museum, and the Bahnhofstrasse shopping boulevard. Popular additions to an Old Town tour include a cable car ride to Felsenegg viewpoint, a Lake Zurich cruise, or a half-day trip to Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Zurich’s main visitor information center is located opposite Church of Our Lady in Old Town.
- Large parts of Old Town are pedestrianized, and the best way to get around is on foot or by tram.
- Old Town is also the center of Zurich’s nightlife, with dozens of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs around Niederdorfstrasse and Limmatquai.
How to Get There
Old Town is the navigational center of Zurich and home to most of the city’s attractions, hotels, and restaurants. The main Hauptbahnhof train station lies at the north end of Bahnhofstrasse, with connections to Zurich Airport and other cities around Switzerland. It’s easy to walk to all the central attractions, but a number of tram lines also run throughout Old Town, with stops at Paradeplatz, Neumarkt, and Central.
When to Get There
Visit early in the morning to escape the crowds, if you’re visiting during peak season (July–August), or head down to Limmatquai at sunset to soak up the atmosphere and experience Zurich’s legendary nightlife. The most exciting time to visit is during one of the many annual events and festivals: Time your visit for the Zurich Festival (June), Long Night of Museums (September), Sechseläuten Spring Festival (April), Zurich Street Festival (August), or the festive Christmas markets.
Zurich Old Town Walking Tour
Zurich's landmark cathedrals—Church of Our Lady (Fraumunster) and Grossmunster—on opposite sides of the Limmat River make navigating Old Town easy. From Hauptbahnhof on the west bank, stroll down Bahnhofstrasse, one of Europe’s most expensive shopping streets, to Paradeplatz. Detour to St. Peter’s Church and admire views from Lindenhof hill. Continue to Church of Our Lady, cross Munster footbridge to Grossmunster, from where it’s an easy stroll to the Niederdorf district and Limmatquai promenade.
Address: Altstadt, Zurich, Switzerland
From $ 26
Zrinjevac Park
Dotted with landscaped gardens, century-old trees, and lovely fountains, Zrinjevac Park is a popular relaxation spot for Zagreb locals. Take a break from exploring the city and stroll along the tree-lined paths or simply rest on a park bench, watch the fountains, and enjoy the aroma of fresh flowers.
The Basics
Many walking tours of Zagreb include a visit to Zrinjevac Park and cover its history: an old livestock marketplace, now park, that’s dedicated to the 16th-century Croatian military hero Nikola Šubic Zrinski. It’s a natural place to rest a bit before heading out to explore more of the city center. The park is especially festive during the winter months; in fact, it’s a highlight of many organized Christmas Advent tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A perfect place to relax after a day touring Zagreb.
- Regular concerts take place in the music pavillion—check to see what’s scheduled during your visit.
- Make sure to carry cash for purchasing refreshments or goods from the artisan booths in the park.
- Don’t miss the working meteorological column in the northern end of the park.
How to Get There
Zrinjevac Park is just a short walk from the main square and easily reachable by tram from anywhere in the city. Trams 6 and 13 will get you closest to the park if you get off at the Zrinjevac station; or, take any tram to the main square and make the short walk to Zrinjevac Park.
When to Get There
Zrinjevac Park is open to the public year-round. The sprawling plane trees provide plenty of shade during the summer months and are beautifully decorated with twinkling lights during the Advent season. In fact, winter may indeed be the best time to visit—that’s when you’ll find local artisans selling Christmas ornaments and handcrafted souvenirs. You can also enjoy live holiday music in the pavillion and sample seasonal snacks like strudel.
Festivals and Events in Zrinjevac Park
In addition to the popular winter Advent festivities, Zrinjevac Park hosts a range of special events. You can catch classical, jazz, rock, and pop concerts, plus the occasional stand-up comedian or literary talk, at the music pavilion. The park also sponsors morning yoga and meditation classes, as well as other Croatian activities.
Address: Trg Nikole Šubića Zrinskog, Zagreb, Croatia
From $ 9
Vienna Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn)
Set against a backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna Zoo (Tiergarten Schönbrunn) is the world’s oldest zoo, dating back to 1752. Today, the park houses some 750 species, including rhinos, polar bears, and pandas, and focuses on the conservation and protection of endangered species.
The Basics
General admission to Vienna Zoo includes access to all exhibits, including daily zookeeper talks and feedings. Guided tours, night tours, and safari dinners are also available. Vienna PASS holders enjoy admission to the zoo and other city attractions, as well as a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Vienna. Combination tickets are also available, including entrance to the Palm House and Desert House, entrance to Schönbrunn Palace, or a ride on Vienna’s Giant Ferris Wheel (Wiener Riesenrad).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lines can be long, especially in peak season (July and August), so it’s best to book your tickets in advance.
- On-site facilities include small storage lockers, gift shops, drinking fountains, and a range of restaurants and cafés.
- The zoo is accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
- The Schönbrunn Panorama Train links the many attractions of Schönbrunn Park, including the zoo, the palace, and Gloriette Hill. Passes are valid all day.
How to Get there
Tiergarten Schönbrunn is located in Schönbrunn Park, and it’s a short walk from Schönbrunn Palace along signed trails. To get there from downtown Vienna, ride metro line U4 to Hietzing station. Trams 10, 58, 60, and 61 also run to the palace.
When to Get There
The zoo is open daily year-round. July and August are the busiest months, but it can get crowded on weekends and public holidays throughout the year, so make an early start to avoid lines. Most keeper talks and feedings only take place once a day, so be sure to check the schedule in advance if there is a particular animal you are most interested in.
Animal Sightings at the Schönbrunn Zoo
The zoo is home to about 8,500 animals, including tigers, jaguars, koalas, elephants, hippos, Siberian tigers, giraffes, a huge variety of birds, monkeys, reptiles, and insects. Watch orangutans in the ORANG.erie, observe polar bears swimming from Polar World’s underwater viewing area, and admire the Rainforest House, a living recreation of a tropical rainforest. The zoo also houses giant pandas, with the birth of cub twins Fu Feng and Fu Ban making headlines in 2016.
Address: Maxingstrasse 13b, Vienna 1130, Austria
Admission: Adult: €20 Children: €10, Under 6: Free
From $ 9
Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn)
Built to rival the opulence of Versailles, Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) was once a summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs. Today, this baroque palace is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important architectural, cultural, and historic monuments in Austria.
The Basics
Forty of the palace’s 1,441 rooms are open to the public, including the private apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), as well as the exquisite 18th-century rooms of Maria-Theresa—the only female ruler of the Habsburg dynasty. The vast palace gardens are also a must-see, with a spectacular palm house made from iron and glass, a hedge maze, and a labyrinth. Visit on a skip-the-line tour to beat the crowds and benefit from the knowledge of an expert guide, or opt for a private tour for a more personalized experience. For an evening of culture and music, attend a live concert in the Schönbrunn Palace Orangery and listen to famous works by Mozart and Strauss. Or, get an overview of the city and the palace on a Vienna city tour, stopping at other highlights such as the Vienna Opera House, the Danube River, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Filming and photography are not permitted inside the palace.
- The palace has nine onsite dining options, including outdoor cafés and formal sit-down restaurants.
- Three accessible parking spaces are available near the main gate, and wheelchairs can be rented free of charge. All display rooms are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
Schönbrunn Palace is located on the outskirts of Vienna, roughly 15 minutes by road from the city’s historic center and 30 minutes by road from Vienna International Airport. Public transportation is the easiest option; the U4 underground line, the 10 and 16 trams, and the 10A bus run directly to the palace—just get off at the Schönbrunn stop.
When to Get There
The busiest time to visit Schönbrunn Palace is during the summer months of July and August, when it’s best to visit early or purchase a skip-the-line ticket to avoid crowds. Spring and fall bring mild weather and fewer crowds.
The Schönbrunn Palace Orangery
For lovers of music and culture, an evening visit to Schönbrunn Palace is a must. The Schönbrunn Palace Orchestra performs concerts in the fully renovated Palace Orangery, where Mozart himself often played. The orchestra is accompanied by ballet dancers and opera singers, and they perform various works from Mozart and Strauss.
Address: Schonbrunner Schlosstrasse 47, Vienna 1130, Austria
Hours: April through June, Sept through Nov: 8am - 5:30pm. July through Aug: 8am - 6:30pm. Nov through March: 8am - 5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 9
Zizkov District
Prague’s gritty suburb of Zizkov lies to the east of the city center and is best-known as being home to the bizarre Television Tower (Tower Park Prague), much hated when it was completed in 1992 but now regarded with affection by local residents.
Hilly Zizkov itself had its origins as a blue-collar area of the city, built in the 19th century for the workers who stoked Prague’s industrial boom. Under Soviet rule, the district became a Communist stronghold nicknamed ‘Red Zizkov’, and today it is a Bohemian district with a reputation for underground drinking dens, grungy pubs and a subversive nightlife along Borivojova, the perfect spot for pub crawls.
Thanks to its reasonable property rentals, a young and innovative workforce has started to move into Zizkov, bringing with it new hi-tech industries and a burgeoning bar and multicultural restaurant scene. There’s a farmers’ market at Jiriho z Podebrad from Wednesday through Friday, and funky art galleries are springing up in the laid-back, cobbled streets. As well as Olšanské cemetery — the biggest in Prague — the New Jewish Cemetery, the burial place of author Franz Kafka, is also found in Zizkov, along with the National Monument and the Czech Army Museum.
Practical Info
Prague 3. Metro Line A to Jiriho z Podebrad.
Address: Zizkov, Prague, Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic 130 00, Czech Republic
From $ 23
Zsolnay Cultural Quarter
An exquisite mix of old and new Hungarian architecture, the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter features much of the ceramic work that the country is famous for. The area extends outward from the original Zsolnay family factory that produced much of the original porcelain, tiles, and stoneware that can be seen throughout Hungary. Visitors can view pieces being made by hand at the factory, or take a stroll on the sprawling green grounds that surround it. The Bobita Puppet Factory is another highlight for many, a foundation for Hungarian culture and art.
The quarter consists of smaller, themed sections including the Handicrafts District, the Creative District, the Children and Family District, and the University District. With its interactive activities and preservation of longstanding culture, it is widely regarded as a top cultural experience of Central and Eastern Europe. It’s a living example of the history of the area’s arts and traditions.
Practical Info
The district can be found east of the inner city of Pécs, about a ten minute walk from the city center. Buses 2, 2A, and 4 stop there. The area is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and is free to access.
Address: 37 Zsolnay Vilmos Street, Pecs 7630, Hungary
Hours: 10 am to 5 pm
From $ 580