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Cairngorms National Park

A wild landscape of granite mountains, heather-covered moors and gentle glens covering 1,500 square miles of the Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms National Park was named one of the world’s “Last Great Places” by National Geographic.

Formed 40 million years before the last ice age, the Cairngorms are especially popular among mountain bikers, snowboarders, sea kayakers and hikers. They’re also a hit with the Scottish Queen: she spends every summer there at Balmoral Castle and Estate.

More than 50 of the Cairngorms’ mountains reach over 2,953 feet, and the national park boasts five of the United Kingdom’s six highest mountain summits. Those looking for a challenge can hike up the summit of Cairngorm’s namesake mountain, while the more leisurely crowd can take the much-used mountain railway to the top. Once up there, remember that it’s a Scottish tradition to take a “wee nip” of whisky. Cheers!

The national park is home to 25 percent of the UK’s native woodland, which is vital for endangered birds like the Capercaillies and Scottish Crossbills who breed only in Scotland’s Caledonian Forest. The primeval-looking region contains dozens of rare animals and birds, including 50 reindeer that were reintroduced to the Cairngorms by a Swedish herdsman in the 1950s. Look out for wild cats, pine martens, red squirrels and ospreys, too.

Practical Info

There are regular bus and rail connections from Scotland’s major cities to Aviemore, a busy resort town in the heart of the Cairngorms. Inverness is just half an hour to the north by bus or car, while Edinburgh and Glasgow are about a 2.5-hour drive away. Aviemore is open all year-round, but visitors should check for road closures due to snow in winter.

Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore, Glasgow, Scotland

Open all year-round, but visitors should check for road closures due to snow in winter.

From $ 57

Caernarfon Castle

Overlooking the Menai Strait with its imposing polygonal towers, Caernarfon Castle has been dominating the landscape in this corner of North Wales for nearly 800 years. Built for King Edward I on the site of a Roman fortress and Norman fort, the site is a popular tourist attraction for visitors interested in learning more about the history of Great Britain.

The Basics

Caernarfon Castle was built by Edward I on the site of a former Roman fortress and Norman fort in the 1280s to display English wealth and power over Wales. With its uniquely shaped towers and color-block brickwork, it is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though the exterior is complete, the plans for the building’s interior were never fully finished. The castle also includes a museum dedicated to the Royal Welch Fusiliers army regiment.

Many people opt for a guided tour to learn more about the building’s history. Guided day trips from nearby cities (including Bangor, Caernarfon, Holyhead, and Llandudno) visit the walled city of Caernarfon as well as the mountains of Snowdonia and other area highlights.

Things to Know Before You Go

Discount admission to the castle is available for children, seniors, and students. Children under 5 enter free.
Several parts of the castle feature steep narrow stairs and are not suitable for those in a wheelchair.
Your ticket to the castle covers also admission to the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum.
Hours vary by season, so check in advance if making your own way to the castle.

How to Get There

Caernarfon Castle sits on the Menai Strait, a body of water that separates mainland Wales from the island of Anglesey. Many people opt to take a guided tour that includes transportation from nearby cities. Others travel by car or take a train to Bangor and a public bus to the castle. Public parking is available nearby.

When to Get There

The castle’s hours change seasonally, with the longest hours in July and August and reduced hours September through February. The castle is closed on major holidays and last entry is 30 minutes before closing. Weekends are the busiest time to visit.

Island of Anglesey

Just across the water from Caernarfon Castle, the small island of Anglesey is known to British families as a quick and easy vacation getaway. With pretty scenery, historic buildings including Beaumaris Castle and Plas Newydd, and sandy beaches with dramatic cliffs topped with lighthouses, it also holds appeal for tourists visiting the area.

Castle Ditch, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 2AY, Wales

Varies

From $ 683

Calanque de Sormiou

The calanques are narrow and steep inlets along the limestone coast of southern France, the most impressive ones being located along the little stretch of coastline between Marseilles and Cassis. They are romantic, wild and, being surrounded by huge cliffs, often protrude fjord-like into the landscape. While many calanques require hours of hiking or kayaking to reach, the Calanque de Sormiou is more easily accessible and still provides a true visual spectacle for visitors.

After a 15 minute drive or 45 minute walk from the main road down the hills, a sandy beach awaits next to the bright blue Mediterranean water. A couple weekend homes dot the landscape and then there is Le Château, the modest but immensely popular bouillabaisse restaurant that requires a phone reservation well ahead of time to snag a seat.

As sparse as the landscape might appear, Sormiou actually serves as a habitat for a rich flora and fauna. Over 900 plants grow here and birdwatchers will find many rare birds nesting in the steep cliffs. Swimming and sunbathing is popular, but the area is also crossed by numerous hiking trails, some more demanding than others, and the little bay is also a popular destination for visitors arriving by boat.

Practical Info

By car, Calanque de Sormiou can be reached in about 30 minutes from Marseilles and the road is very well signposted. However, there is only a small parking area available at the bottom of the calanque and the area is closed off to cars during the busy high season and on weekends. This is why many visitors decide to arrive either by boat or by taking public transportation and hiking in. Take the metro line 2 to Rond-Pont du Prado, followed by bus number 23 to Sormiou. From there, it’s a 45 minute hike to the bottom.

France

From $ 56

Caerphilly Castle

Built in the 13th century, Caerphilly Castle is a lasting reminder of medieval times in modern-day Wales. Located on the edge of Brecon Beacons National Park, overlooking the town of Caerphilly, it draws history buffs and curious visitors from the world over who come to step back in time to understand life in the Middle Ages.

The Basics

The towering stone walls and man-made lakes and moats give away Caerphilly Castle’s original purpose: as a defensive outpost. Built by Gilbert de Clare in the 13th century, the 30-acre (12-hectare) castle is the second-largest in Britain and is known for being one of the first British castles to implement a concentric defensive structure. These elaborate defenses served their purpose—Caerphilly Castle was never captured.

The castle was donated to the state in 1950 and was reborn as a visitor attraction. The castle is a popular day trip from the nearby city of Cardiff (the Welsh capital) and frequently features in historical tours of the region.

Things to Know Before You Go

Discounted tickets are available for students and seniors, and families can purchase a combined ticket.
Parts of the castle are wheelchair accessible, but some areas of the castle have steep, narrow steps.
The castle has a small souvenir store, but there is no on-site cafe.
Caerphilly claims its leaning tower, attacked by Oliver Cromwell, leans more than Pisa.

How to Get There

Caerphilly Castle is located in the small town of Caerphilly, eight miles (12 kilometers) north of Cardiff city center. You can reach the castle by car, local train to Caerphilly Station, or as part of a guided tour with transport provided. Car parking is available on site.

When to Get There

The castle has seasonal opening hours, and last admission is 30 minutes before closing. In July and August, it is open 9:30am-6pm. In September and October, and from March to June, it’s open 9:30am-5pm. From November to February it’s open 10am-4pm Monday to Saturday, and 11am-4pm on Sunday. The castle is closed on major holidays. Saturday is the busiest time to visit.

Millenium Centre in Cardiff

With its copper-colored metal exterior, this arts center along the waterfront in Cardiff is known to locals as the “armadillo.” The center hosts a regular program of events, from classical music to Broadway musicals, stand-up comedy, and theater, along with free concerts and family activities. At the center you find a number of cafes and restaurants that you can enjoy whether you’re attending a concert or just coming to see the building.

Castle St, Caerphilly CF83 1JD, Wales

Varies

From $ 74

Calanques National Park

As Europe's only protected park to contain land, water, and semi-urban areas, Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques) is a mecca for outdoor adventurers. Whether you want to snorkel and sail, kayak and climb, or hike and watch out for wildlife, France's answer to the Garden of Eden has it all.

The Basics
The Calanques — known separately as Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque d'En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Pin, and Calanque de Sugiton — are the park's main attraction. These brilliant rocky promontories are best discovered on a long hike or by kayak — you might even spot daredevils abseiling or cliff diving from the colossal cliffs. Snorkelers and scuba divers are rewarded with a kaleidoscope of marine life during underwater excursions to Monte Cristo, home of the prison that inspired Alexander Dumas' work of classic literature. Travelers without the desire to go underwater can explore the park with ease on an electric bike tour or fishing trip.

If you're short on time in the treasured French Riviera, consider combining sightseeing tours of Marseille and Cassis with a visit to Calanques National Park. Alternatively, opt to spend more time in the park's crystal-clear waters with a two-day scuba diving course.

Most tours provide round-trip transport from your accommodation in Marseille, Cassis, or the Aix-en-Provence area.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to the park.
It's best to wear comfortable shoes fit for outdoor exploration.
Note that camping and motorized water sports are not allowed in the protected area.

How To Get to Calanques National Park
Although nestled between popular Marseille and Cassis, Calanques National Park is not easy to access by public transport or without a guide. The best way to visit the national park is by boat from Port de Cassis (cruises depart every 90 minutes daily) or on a day trip from central Marseille. If arriving by car, be aware that the closest beach is about a one-hour hike from available parking lots.

When To Get There
The most popular time to visit the French Riviera is during the summer months of June to September, when temperatures sit comfortably in the 70s F (20s C) and rain is nowhere to be found. However, if you prefer cooler climates and want to miss the crowds, May and June are the ideal months to head to the park.

Marseille 9, Marseille, France

From $ 52

Cala Comte

Surrounded by sand dunes and rocky cliffs, Cala Comte ranks among Ibiza’s most spectacular (and popular) beaches. Visiting families come to swim in the calm, clear waters, while protected coves and enclaves appeal to sunbathers who prefer to go au natural. The beach is known as the best spot on the island to watch the sunset.

The Basics

Cala Comte beach is situated on the western coast of Ibiza and comprises two main beaches and a smaller cove. The western side of the beach is family friendly, while the cove known as Cala Escondida tends to be swimsuit-optional. One popular way to enjoy the beach is aboard a catamaran beach-hopping tour. These full-day excursions typically stop at Cala Comte and Cala Bassa and offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset viewing.

Things to Know Before You Go

Cala Comte is a must-visit for families and those looking for a safe and beautiful swimming spot.
Don’t forget to bring sun protection; there isn’t much shade at this Ibiza beach.
Beware of incoming tides; they’ve been known to wash away belongings.
Catamaran tours often include snorkeling gear.

How to Get There

The easiest way to get to Cala Comte is by taxi or car, but it’s also possible to catch a bus or ferry from San Antonio. These run throughout the summer season. The beach is about a 25-minute drive from Ibiza Town and a 10-minute drive from San Antonio.

When to Get There

Due to its western-facing orientation, the beach gets busiest in the late afternoon hours with beachgoers coming to watch the sunset. The best season to enjoy Cala Comte is between May and October, when temperatures are warm enough to swim.

Sunset Ashram

The two main beach areas of Cala Comte are divided by Sunset Ashram, a restaurant perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the water. Diners come to feast on Indian and Mediterranean cuisine while taking in the spectacular sunsets. Nightly DJs lend the spot a party vibe throughout the summer.

Spain

From $ 290

Caelian Hill

One of Rome’s seven legendary hills, Caelian Hill was a wealthy residential district under the Roman Republic. Today, this is home to the ancient Basilica of Saints John and Paul, the circular Church of Santo Stefano Rotondo, and the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla. Travelers can tour Caelian Hill on foot, or by bike, scooter, or bus.

The Basics

Caelian Hill is unique among Rome’s seven historic hills, as its western slope is one of the few tranquil and unpopulated places in Rome. Several ancient churches dating from the fourth and fifth centuries can be visited on Caelian Hill, in addition to Roman ruins and Villa Celimontana, one of Rome’s nicest parks.

The churches and ruins on Caelian Hill are best visited as part of a guided tour to appreciate their historical importance. Consider joining a walking, rickshaw, or Vespa tour of the hills of ancient Rome, or a small-group tour dedicated to the most historic churches in the Eternal City. Many tours of Rome’s seven hills include skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, which are nearby on Palatine Hill.

Things to Know Before You Go

Caelian Hill is a must for history buffs, as it is home to some of the city’s most fascinating ancient churches and Roman ruins.
The Baths of Caracalla are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, and the site offers restrooms and a bookshop. The ruins are open to the elements, so bring a hat and sunscreen in summer.
Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter the churches. Some churches are not wheelchair accessible.
The park and gardens of Villa Celimontana are an ideal spot for a stroll with kids.

How to Get There

Caelian Hill is located on the southeast corner of the historic center of Rome, along the Tiber River. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo, on line B.

When to Get There

Most of the Baths of Caracalla ruins are outdoors, so visit on a day with clear skies and mild temperatures. The quiet churches, on the other hand, provide a cool refuge from the midday summer heat.

Rome’s Seven Hills

Caelian Hill is the farthest southeast of Rome’s seven hills, which are all east of the Tiber and form the geographical heart of ancient Rome. The other hills are Aventine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Esquiline Hill, Quirinal Hill, Viminal Hill, and Palatine Hill, where legend tells us that Romulus founded the city and where the most famous archaeological ruins can still be seen.

Monte Celio, Rome 00184, Italy

From $ 43

Caf e de Flore

As one of the most famous cafés in Paris, Café de Flore requires very little presentation. This establishment is indeed nothing short of legendary, thanks to the legacy left by some of its most prestigious customers – lovebirds Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre, along with our contemporary intelligentsia and trendsetters. Besides its famous clientele, the café is also noted for its sunny and flowery terrace; in fact, getting coffee at Café de Flore is regarded as one of the most quintessentially Parisian things visitors can do.

Café de Flore is not only illustrious because of its patrons; it’s also one of the longest-running coffeehouses in Paris, having first opened its doors in the 1880s during the Third Republic. It was named after a sculpture of the Roman goddess of flowers, Flora.

Practical Info

Café de Flore is located on Boulevard Saint-Germain in Paris. It is not advised to get to the Café de Flore house by car as parking is scarce and complicated; however, Saint Germain des Prés, Mabillon, and Saint-Sulpice stations are all within a 10-minute walk. The coffeehouse is open every day from 7:30am to 1:30am non-stop.

172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, Ile-de-France 75006, France

Every day from 7:30am to 1:30am

From $ 58

Calanque d'En-Vau

Calanque d’En-Vau is one of the many fjord-like inlets along the coastline between Cassis and Marseilles. It’s hard to believe that this wild, untamed nature is right outside a major city, but once there, the hustle and bustle of Marseilles might as well be on the other side of the world. The calanques are a Mediterranean paradise, where the sea has carved its way and created shining white cliffs towering thousands of feet above the azure water. The landscape looks stony and brittle, but all over one can see it come to live. There are gnarled pine trees, dark blue pistachio, wild asparagus and juniper, as well as rare birds nesting high up in the limestone cliffs.

Of course, getting to Calanque d’En-Vau involves hiking along the adventurous hiking trails that follow the coastline to the hidden bays. It is one of the more difficult inlets to get to and requires hiking down the extremely steep inclines. Unsurprisingly, Calanque d’En-Vau is very popular with rock climbers and on a nice day, you can see a huge number of them braving the cliffs. At the bottom, a pretty pebble beach rewards visitors for the effort.

Practical Info

There are regular sailing trips from Cassis as well as Marseilles that take visitors to the calanques with the alternative being a hike through the rocky landscape. You can either hike all the way from Cassis, the closest city to Calanque d’En-Vau, which takes roughly two hours, or take the car to the de la Fontasse car park and walk the remaining 3 kilometers.

Cassis, France

From $ 90

Calle Mayor

To soak in the essence of Cartagena, plan to take a stroll down its Calle Mayor, or Main Street. The pedestrian-only avenue is the place to go to appreciate the city’s architecture, go shopping, or even to sit at a restaurant’s outdoor terrace as you watch the world go by.

Just steps away from the port and sea, the street begins at the grand, palm tree-lined Plaza de Ayuntamiento, or Town Hall Square, home to none other than the giant palace that is Town Hall itself. From there, travel past (or stop at) the Roman Theater Museum and onto Calle Mayor with its marble-tiled promenade. Along the way, you’ll walk by noteworthy architecture such as Art Nouveau masterpieces Casino de Cartagena, a fancy 19th-century social club, and Cervantes House (not to be confused by the famous author; this building was named after a wealthy businessman).

Practical Info

Calle Mayor can easily be reached by foot from the harbor and anywhere in the old quarter. Note that there is a tourism office located in Town Hall, just prior to the start of Calle Mayor. To better understand the architecture and history of this part of town, you may want to join a walking tour.

Calle Mayor, Cartagena, Murcia 30201, Spain

From $ 29

Cala di Mitigliano

Cala di Mitigliano is an unspoiled beach at the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy. It can only be reached by walking down a steep footpath for about 30 minutes, but once you get there, you will enjoy beautiful scenery and views of Punta Campanella and the island of Capri. With a pebble beach and crystal-clear water, Cala di Mitigliano is in a cove surrounded by steep vertical rocks, making for a dramatic landscape.

On the right side of the beach is a circular building, similar to a tower, that was once used for lime production. While no longer in use, the structure adds to the landscape and stands as a reminder of the area’s history. Nearby, a 50-foot deep circular grotto is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, although it is only possible to enter when the sea is calm and the tide is low.

Practical Info

Cala di Mitigliano is located in Massa Lubrense. To get there, take the footpath that starts from the Church of Santa Maria di Mitigliano.

Cala di Mitigliano, Massa Lubrense, Campania, Italy

From $ 121

Cahergall Fort

Dating back to the seventh century, this ring fort is one of several such structures dotted around County Kerry. Restored to better resemble its original state, this circular stone structure features sturdy stone walls up to 16.4 feet (5 meters) thick and 6.6 feet (4 meters) high, and affords stunning views down to the Atlantic coast.

The Basics

Cahergall Fort is one of the Ring of Kerry’s lesser-known sights and is often overlooked on tours of the area, though it can be incorporated into private tours with custom-made itineraries from several nearby towns such as Killarney, Kenmare, and Killorglin. Because of Cahergall Fort’s proximity to Leacanabuaile Fort and Ballycarbery Castle, the three sites are frequently visited together. Steps on the fort’s internal walls allow visitors to climb up to the top level, which—on a clear day—offers views of the Atlantic Ocean and Valentia Harbour.

Things to Know Before You Go

Cahergall Fort is a must for history buffs and those traveling with children, who will enjoy running around the open ruins.
Bring a camera to capture images of the surrounding countryside from atop the fort’s walls.
Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes so you can easily navigate the uneven stone steps, even in changeable weather.

How to Get There

The fort is situated in an area known as “over the water” by locals, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from Cahersiveen in County Kerry. From Cahersiveen, cross over the bridge down by the Old Barracks and follow signposts for Cahergall Fort. The fort is in an isolated area not served by public transport. If you don’t have access to a car, it’s best to go as part of a tour.

When to Get There

Cahergall Fort is situated off the beaten tourist track, and the site itself is rarely busy. However, there is limited parking, and spots are snapped up quickly in summer. Arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to ensure you get a spot.

What to See Nearby

Two other historic attractions lie in the immediate vicinity of Cahergall Fort. The first, Leacanabuaile Fort, is another partially reconstructed ring fort and is just a stone’s throw away. Leacanabuaile Fort features stone walls, an underground tunnel, and the remains of ancient dwellings. Also in the area are the ruins of 16th-century Ballycarbery Castle, a crumbling, ivy-clad structure overlooking the Atlantic.

Ballycarbery East, Caherciveen, Ring of Kerry, Ireland

From $ 81

Cala Bassa

One of Ibiza’s most beautiful stretches of sand, Cala Bassa has become known as one of the island’s top beaches. Favored by locals and visitors alike, it’s a long crescent-shaped white sand bay with calm, turquoise waters that are great for water activities. Crowds are diverse and range from small children playing in the sand to adrenaline-seeking jet skiers and boaters. Many consider Cala Bassa to have the most vibrantly turquoise waters on the whole island.

Cala Bassa is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the natural coastal beauty, but it also has its fair share of facilities. From sun beds and beach chairs to restaurants, bars, showers, and lifeguards, the beach has a little bit of everything. Not to be overlooked, the Cala Bassa Beach Club offers up some of the DJs, dancing, and nightlife that Ibiza is famous for. The beach is a frequent stop of catamarans and boat tours of the island.

Practical Info

Cala Bassa is a 15 minute car or bus ride from San Antonio, or on the water by ferry. The nearest town is Sant Agnes de Corona, about five miles away. There’s a designated swimming area that is safe from water activities.

Cala Bassa, Ibiza, Spain

24/7

From $ 290

Calle Triana

Calle Triana (and the district surrounding it) has become the main commercial center of Las Palmas. The pedestrian street running through its heart is lined with trendy boutiques, old-fashioned shops, international brand retailers and lovely cafes for a bit of post-shopping refreshment.

While some of the shops might be modern, the street itself is among the oldest on the island, dating back to the sixteenth century. Shops and banks began moving into the area in the mid- nineteenth century, and much of the architecture dates back to the same period.

Swing by Calle Triana, 35, where you’ll notice an electric clock dating back to 1868. The clock, built by famous clockmaker Juan Pflüger, reminds passers-by to take their time and enjoy the day.

Practical Info

Calle Triana itself is where you’ll find many of the big brand retailers. Explore the smaller side streets to find smaller boutiques and restaurants.

Calle Triana, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands 35002, Spain

From $ 90

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Set in a lush garden, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is regarded as one of Portugal’s finest private collections and contains artworks ranging from ancient Egyptian sculptures to modernist paintings. The museum also houses a large selection of European art, with pieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, Van Dyck, and Renoir.

The Basics

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum contains two distinct collections: the Founder’s Collection, with over 6,000 pieces gathered by Calouste Gulbenkian himself, and the Modern Collection, which contains more than 10,000 works of modern and contemporary Portuguese art. After you peruse the museum’s pristine modernist interior, make sure to step outside and explore the winding paths and manicured lawns of Gulbenkian Garden.

Book your ticket in advance to save time and avoid waiting in line. It’s also possible to visit on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour to see the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum along with other Lisbon attractions such as Marquȇs do Pombal Square (Praça Marquês de Pombal) and Belém Tower (Torre de Belém).

Things to Know Before You Go

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a must-see for art lovers.
Restaurants, a book store, and an ATM are located on-site.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the museum and surrounding garden.
The museum and gardens are fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is located on Avenida de Berna, roughly 15 minutes by road from Comércio Plaza (Praça do Comércio) and Lisbon’s waterfront area. Take the metro to either São Sebastião or Praça de Espanha station. Alternatively, you can arrive by bus, taxi, or on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.

When to Get There

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and Gulbenkian Garden are open year-round, although the museum is closed on Tuesdays and some holidays. Opt for an early morning or late-afternoon visit to avoid crowds.

History of the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Wealthy collector Calouste Gulbenkian amassed art for more than 40 years until his death in 1955, leaving his collection to the country of Portugal to be set up as a museum for the general public. His original collection contains paintings by European masters along with ancient relics such as a gold Egyptian mummy mask, a vast collection of Hellenic coins, rare Chinese porcelain items, Japanese prints, and Persian tapestries from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Avenida de Berna, 45A, Lisbon 1067, Portugal

Varies

From $ 12

Camargue

Located in southwest Provence, the Camargue is one of France’s wildest and most scenic landscapes. Protected as a regional natural park, the expanse of wetlands, beaches, salt pans, and rice paddies is known for its herds of white Camargue horses and Camargue bulls, all tended to by local gardians (cowboys).

The Basics

Most visitors choose to explore the Camargue on a day trip from towns like Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, or on a shore excursion from the Mediterranean port of Marseille. A Camargue tour typically takes in regional highlights such as the Camargue capital of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the medieval port town of Aigues Mortes, the seaside resort of Le Grau-du-Roi, and the Provencal village of Arles, known for its connections with Van Gogh. The UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and visitors can also enjoy a cruise along the Petit Rhône river, a canoeing excursion around the marshes, or an off-road jeep tour along the coast.

Things to Know Before You Go

Bring mosquito repellent—the Camargue wetlands are known for their mosquitoes, especially during in summer and fall.
Tourist information offices in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and Aigues-Mortes provide detailed maps of the Parc Naturel de Camargue.
Much of the Camargue is only accessible by 4WD vehicle or on horseback.

How to Get There

The Camargue is located along France’s Mediterranean coast between Montpellier and Marseille. Public transport to the Camargue is limited, and most visitors opt to explore the region either by private vehicle or as part of a guided tour. It’s about a one-hour drive from Avignon to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and the closest international airport is in Nîmes.

When to Get There

The most popular time to visit the Camargue is between March and October, the season of the jeu taurin (non-violent bullfighting), when many area villages host traditional festivals and races. During peak summer season (July and August), temperatures can reach over 86°F (30°C) and mosquitoes can be a pain, so plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler.

Wildlife Watching in the Camargue

In addition to the famous white horses and black bulls, the Camargue is home to some of France’s most diverse bird life, with more than 400 different species. At Pont de Gau Ornithological Park, a top destination for bird watching, you might also spot egrets, ibises, kingfishers, goldcrests, and birds of prey, as well as ducks, swans, and some of the region’s 10,000-plus flamingos.

Provence, France

From $ 81

Caf e Van Gogh

As the inspiration behind iconic paintings like ‘Starry Night Over the Rhone’, Arles is a prime destination for Van Gogh fans visiting Provence and when it’s time to take a break from

sightseeing, where better to stop for coffee than the Café Van Gogh? Immortalized in Van Gogh’s famous work ‘Café Terrace at Night’, painted in 1888, the lively café stands at the corner of the central Place du Forum and draws a steady stream of tourists to its now-iconic terrace.

The café, originally called ‘Café la Nuit’ but now better known as simply ‘Café Van Gogh’, has now fully embraced its dual role as eatery and tourist attraction. Today, the café façade has

been repainted in bold yellow, mimicking its appearance in Van Gogh’s painting (an effect actually created by the bright café lighting against the darkness of the square) and its terrace

carefully restored to maintain its original layout. Head there in the early morning to avoid the crowds, soak up the buzzing atmosphere at lunch time, or visit after dark for the ultimate Van Gogh-inspired photograph.

Practical Info

Café Van Gogh is located on Place du Forum in central Arles and is open daily from 9am to midnight.

11 place du Forum, Arles, France

Daily: 9am- midnight

From $ 116

CaixaForum Barcelona

The sister museum to Madrid’s popular CaixaForum cultural center, CaixaForum Barcelona showcases a permanent collection of more than 800 thematically displayed works. This museum houses one of the biggest modern art collections in Spain, including pieces by Salvador Dalí, William Turner, William Hogarth, Joseph Beuys, and Sol Lewitt.

The Basics

CaixaForum is a hidden gem in Barcelona, often overlooked but worth the visit for modern art lovers. Museum visitors can purchase a single admission ticket or opt for a multi-attraction pass, which includes admission and skip-the-line access to CaixaForum, as well as other attractions like the Picasso Museum, Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, and the Joan Miró Foundation. CaixaForum is a stop on the Red Route of the Barcelona hop-on hop-off bus.

Things to Know Before You Go

The gallery is a must-visit for art lovers and those looking to get off the beaten track.
Book your admission online ahead of time to skip the ticket line.
CaixaForum and all its facilities are wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There

CaixaForum is well-connected by public transportation. The easiest way to get there is to take the metro to Espanya (Line 1 or 3). If you’re in the Plaça de Espanya or Montjüic neighborhoods, you’re within walking distance of the art gallery.

When to Get There

CaixaForum is open daily throughout the year, with extended hours on Wednesday during July and August. The air-conditioned museum is a good place to escape the heat on a hot summer afternoon.

Modernisme Architecture

The CaixaForum building itself is as impressive as the collection within it. The former clothing factory designed by Puig I Cadafalch in 1910 stands opposite the stylish Mies van der Rohe pavilion. Resembling a modernist castle with its intricate crenellated brickwork, the dramatic building now features a striking metal and glass canopy frontage designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki.

Av. de Francesc Ferrer i Guardia, 6-8, Barcelona 08038, Spain

From $ 35

Calton Hill

Looming over the Royal Mile and Princes Street, Calton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s famous seven hills and part of the capital’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. While locals know it as a picnic spot and recreation area, for visitors the main draw to Calton Hill are the spectacular views – look out over the city from the summit and you’ll enjoy a panoramic view spanning Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, all the way out to Leith and the Firth of Forth.

Calton Hill is also home to a number of prominent Edinburgh landmarks, including the Nelson Monument, the Dugald Stewart Monument, the City Observatory and the National Monument of Scotland, an unfinished tribute to Scottish servicemen inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. The hill is also the center of festivities for the annual Beltane Fire Festival in April, and hosts a number of summer festivals and events.

Practical Info

Calton Hill is located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, just north of Calton Road and the Royal Mile.

Calton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland

From $ 16

Caledonian Canal

Pleasure boats float along Caledonian Canal, a scenic 60-mile (97-kilometer) waterway that runs through Scotland's Great Glen, connecting Fort William in the southwest to Inverness in the northeast. The canal, which links Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, Loch Dochfour, and Loch Ness, is popular with walkers and cyclists, who follow towpath trails.

The Basics

Though the long-distance Great Glen Way, which follows the path of the canal, attracts hikers and cyclists to the water’s edge, most visitors to Scotland encounter the Caledonian Canal during sightseeing cruises. The most-visited part of the canal is the area around Loch Ness, a vast and scenic lake, and the supposed home of a mysterious aquatic monster. Organized tours departing from Edinburgh and Inverness often include a visit to the canal, as well as trips to other area Highland highlights, such as Urquhart Castle, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, and Glencoe.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Caledonian Canal is a must-see for scenery-seekers and active travelers.
Swimming is not allowed in the waterway.
Wi-Fi hotspots are available (for a fee) at various spots along the canal.
Some parts of the Great Glen Way are wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There

If you’re coming from Fort William, Neptune’s Staircase, 4 miles (6 kilometers) north of the city in the village of Banavie, are the nearest and most spectacular set of lochs on the canal. To get there, ride the Mallaig-bound train from Fort William to Banavie. If you’re based in Inverness, take a stroll along the Canal Road, which connects to the Great Glen Way.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the canal is in summer. At this time, the weather is generally warmer, days are longer, and sightseers can take advantage of cruise vessels’ outdoor decks. The canal is perhaps at its most scenic during sunrise and sunset, when the golden glow reflects off the water’s surface.

The History of the Caledonian Canal

Built in the late 18th and early 19th century, the Caledonian Canal was meant to serve as a safe route for commercial freight who wanted to avoid the hazardous west coast of Scotland. Unfortunately, by the time it actually opened in 1822, larger steam ships were becoming more commonplace, and were too large to use the canal. Nowadays, the canal is largely used for recreational purposes.

Inverness, Scotland

From $ 26