Hey there, lovers. Are you looking to propose in Ireland? Or perhaps, are you interested in tying the knot? How about an Irish Honeymoon, or celebrating a special anniversary in the Emerald Isle? We’ve got you covered. Check out some of our favorite romantic places in Ireland and let the magic in the air sweep you and yours off your feat.
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THE TITANIC MUSEUM
The Titanic Museum in Belfast may not initially be thought of as a romantic place in Ireland as the Titanic is typically equated to over a thousand lost lives. However, the movie Titanic does go down as one of the most watched love stories of all time, making this location one of our favorite romantic places in Ireland. You just need to start humming a little bit of ‘My heart will go on’ and you can recreate the infamous boat scene we all (unfortunately) can’t forget.
CLADDAGH QUAY IN GALWAY CITY
This area is based on the Irish word “cladach”, meaning a stony beach. Richard Joyce leaves his beloved Claddagh home (he was captured and enslaved by pirates) from the Spanish Arch in Galway on a ship bound for foreign lands beginning the story behind the Claddagh ring, one of the many Irish symbols . The history of the Claddagh ring is one of the most romantic stories of Ireland . If proposing is your plan, try picking out traditional Irish wedding rings: purchasing a Claddagh ring set in Ireland will help you remember your Ireland vacation for all time.
CARMELITE CHURCH DUBLIN
This is where the relics of St. Valentine are buried. In 1835 Pope Gregory XVI provided them to boost Catholicism. St. Valentine secretly married couples throughout Ireland.
WICKLOW NATIONAL PARK
Romantic places in Ireland wouldn’t be complete without Wicklow , where over 80 movies and TV shows have been shot including P.S. I Love You . Remember the scene where Holly (Hillary Swank) is searching for Wicklow National Park and meets her future husband Gerry (Gerard Butler)? Can you find the scene where they meet and take a picture?
POWERSCOURT GARDENS, CO. WICKLOW
Yes, Wicklow, again. What can we say, it’s an amazing area of Ireland! These Gardens were recently voted No.3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens by National Geographic and make for a perfect spot to pop the question.
DÚN NA RÍ FOREST PARK, CO. CAVAN
More specifically, the Romantic Glen of the Cabra River. This glen stretches the full length of the park and is an area steeped in history and legend. It is said that Cuchulain camped there at night, while by day conducting his single handed defense of Ulster against the armies of Maeve. The Normans were here also and in later years the glen echoed to the sounds of Cromwells armies.
ADARE MANOR
Adare Manor is a place of true Irish Hospitality. It’s your drink the way you like it and the best seat by the fire. It’s the feeling that everything is possible and the knowledge that nothing is left to chance. This is probably where we would recommend getting married if you are looking to do so in the Emerald Isle. This fairytale castle set in 840 acres of gently rolling parkland in the heart of Ireland is nestled on the banks of the glittering River Maigue. Adare Manor is a magical place to begin your new life together: a spellbinding backdrop for a wedding day you will always cherish. On that day, you can relax and allow yourself to truly experience every moment!
ASHFORD CASTLE
Through the grand stone gates, a royal adventure begins. This remarkable 800-year-old castle, widely recognized as Ireland’s top castle destination and once home to the Guinness family, is exceptional in every sense. Set in 350 acres of woodland on the shores of Lough Corrib in County Mayo, the multi-award winning property has been voted ‘Best Hotel in the World’.
GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
The world famous Giant’s Causeway on the north Antrim Coast is a very romantic and atmospheric location, especially at sunset. Enjoy a brisk cliff-top walk along the Causeway Coast Way, which passes through the site.
THE CLIFFS OF MOHER
If you’re pulling out all the stops one of the most romantic things you could do in Ireland, surprise your love with a private helicopter ride touring the infamous Cliffs of Moher. There is no other view like it. Once you’ve gotten up close and personal with the miles of cliffs have the helicopter deliver you to the Aran Islands.
Residing in a wide bay, Dublin lies between Howth in the north and the headland of Dalkey to the south. The River Liffey, which flows into the harbor, slices the city in two. Several bridges span the north-south divide, the most famous of which is O’Connell Bridge. Pre-independence Dublin was once the second city of the British Empire, the graceful Georgian architecture and picturesque parks bearing testament to a troubled legacy. Ireland’s capital has given the world such renowned literary figures as Yeats, Beckett, Joyce, Shaw, and Wilde. Dubbed a UNESCO City of Literature in 2010, Dublin’s written tradition stretches back to 800 A.D. with The Books of Kells, which is now on permanent exhibition at Trinity College. Although Dublin sprawls rather than soars, the city center is easily explored on-foot and a convenient transport network takes you wherever you wish to go.
See also: Where to Stay in Dublin
1 Trinity College and College Green
Trinity College is probably the best spot to kick off your Dublin tour. It’s at the heart of the capital, packed full of incredible history, and it’s the oldest university in Ireland having been founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Occupying an enviable 40-acre site, Trinity retains some of its ancient seclusion of cobbled squares, gardens, and parks and is famed throughout the world for its collection of great treasures. These include, on permanent exhibition, the 9th century illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells, the Books of Durrow and Armagh, and an ancient Irish harp. The priceless artefacts are displayed in the Treasury and the awe-inspiring 18th-century Long Room, which houses more than 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books and hosts regular literary exhibitions.
Trinity is a haven in an otherwise bustling area. Alumni over the centuries include such figures as Jonathan Swift (most famously known as the author of Gulliver’s Travels), Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker (author of Dracula), and playwright Samuel Beckett. Entering through a timber-tiled archway, you are instantly brought back in time. The immaculate green lawns, 18th- and 19th-century buildings, and cobbled pathway are reminiscent of a more gentile age and ooze a sense of hushed academia. It’s best to time your visit as buildings open to the public can become crowded during peak season. As well as taking in the must-see sights do make time to relax and simply enjoy the atmosphere. Opposite the college on College Green is the old Irish Parliament building now a branch of the Bank of Ireland.
Admission: Adults €9, senior citizens & students €8, children (under 12) free
Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2
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Trinity College of Dublin Map
2 Grafton Street
A short southerly stroll from Trinity College takes you down towards Dublin’s premier shopping location, Grafton Street. A statue of Molly Malone sits at the bottom of the street, so it’s impossible to miss. This eclectic stretch buzzes morning, noon, and night and is a magnet for buskers, from classical quartets to traditional fiddle players and singer-songwriters. Many famed bands and musicians have given impromptu performances here, including Bono of U2. Aside from buskers, you will find a broad range of boutiques, jewelers, and department stores including upmarket Brown Thomas. Many would say that the jewel in the crown is Bewley’s Oriental Café, a Dublin institution at this location since 1927. If on a shopping spree it’s well worth taking a slight diversion to the arty Powerscourt Townhouse Centre with its designer shops and trendy places to eat.
Bewley’s Café – Open 8am-10pm Monday-Wednesday, 8am-11pm Thursday-Saturday, 9am-10pm Sunday
After eating your fill at Bewley’s Oriental Café, an easy stroll to the top of Grafton Street brings you to Fusilier’s Arch, the main entrance to St. Stephen’s Green. Georgian buildings surround ‘the Green’ (as it’s known locally), although some sadly fell by the wayside during redevelopment, mainly in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. The 22-acre park is a Dublin gem and an oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of downtown city life. When weather permits, you should do as the locals do and stretch out on the grass for some rest and relaxation, or grab a picnic lunch. Immaculate flowerbeds fringe the lawns. Also in the park is an ornate fountain at its center, a bridge over a duck pond, and a children’s playground. Incidentally, the park was the scene of bitter combat during the 1916 Uprising, however it was agreed by both sides that hostilities should cease while the park-keeper fed the ducks.
Hours: Open all year Mon-Sat 7.30am, Sundays and holidays 9.30am, gardens close according to daylight hours
Admission: Free
Address: St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2
4 Editor’s Choice The Little Museum of Dublin
A couple of minutes stroll from Fusilier’s Arch, at the top of Dawson Street is a must-see for those interested in how Dublin and its people lived their lives and evolved over the past century. James Joyce once famously said, ‘in the particular is contained the universal,’ which neatly sums up the ethos of this treasure trove. In the minutiae of people’s belongings, history is indeed writ large. Opened in 2011 following an appeal for mementos and artefacts, the museum has gone from strength to strength and now hosts an array of temporary exhibitions and events as well as permanent installations, including a U2 retrospective with exhibits donated by band members. Other treats include the lectern used by John F. Kennedy when he addressed both houses of the Irish Parliament (Oireachtas) in June 1963.
Hours: Open Monday-Sunday 9.30am-5pm, Thursdays 9.30am-8pm
From the Little Museum of Dublin, a saunter past the legendary Shelbourne Hotel will take you to the top of Kildare Street, home to the Irish Parliament (Dáil Éireann) on the left hand side. The parliament building was once known as Kildare House after James Fitzgerald, the Earl of Kildare, who commissioned its construction in 1745 and set out to create a grand Georgian mansion to reflect his loft social status. When he became Duke of Leinster in 1766, the house was renamed Leinster House. On the opposite side is a branch of the National Museum of Ireland (Archaeology) with outstanding permanent exhibitions including Ireland’s Gold, Prehistoric Ireland, the Viking Collection, and the Treasury, including the magnificent Ardagh Chalice. If you’re interested in literature you should visit the National Library close by, which has a permanent W.B. Yeats exhibition.
Hours: National Museum (Archaeology) open 10am-5pm Tuesday-Saturday, 2-5pm Sunday
National Library exhibitions – Open Monday-Wednesday 9.30am-7.45pm, Thursday-Friday 9.30am-4.45pm, Saturday 9.30am-4.45pm, Sunday 1pm-4.45pm
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6 The National Gallery of Ireland
A right turn at the end of Kildare Street will bring you to the National Gallery of Ireland with entrances on Clare Street and Merrion Square West. Housing the finest collection of Irish art in the world alongside an outstanding collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the present day, this is a must-see while in the capital. The gallery opened in 1864 with wings being added in 1903, 1968, and most recently, 2002. Collections include the Yeats Museum, seven rooms devoted to Irish art, Italian Painters, the Shaw Room, and Baroque Room. The gallery, which is spread over four levels, regularly hosts impressive temporary exhibitions, and there’s an excellent café popular with locals and visitors alike.
Hours: Open Monday-Wednesday 9.30am-5.30pm, Friday-Saturday 9.30am-8.30pm, Thursday 12 midday-5.30pm
Exit the National Gallery’s main portal and you’re on Merrion Square. Made up of stately private houses and offices, this is arguably Dublin’s grandest Georgian square and stars in countless images and postcards of the city. At its center is a pretty park with a vibrant statue of that most colorful writer and renowned Dublin wit, Oscar Wilde. An amiable stroll around the square is a journey back in time to the Georgian era. You may notice that the top windows in many buildings are smaller than those lower down. This was done in order to create an optical illusion, that of the houses being taller than they really are. At weekends, local artists line the perimeter of the park and display their paintings on the railings.
Hours: Open daily in daylight hours
Admission: Free
Address: Merrion Square, Dublin 2
8 The GPO (General Post Office)
O’Connell Street, Dublin’s main thoroughfare, is home to the iconic GPO (General Post Office) built in 1814. The failed 1916 Uprising began here and bullet holes still dot the neo-classical portico. Inside, the An Post Museum houses the Letters, Lives & Liberty exhibition featuring a 1916 Uprising installation and a copy of the Proclamation of Independence.
Hours: Open Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, closed Sundays
Admission: €2
Address: O’Connell Street, Dublin 1
9 The James Joyce Centre
The James Joyce Centre William Murphy / photo modified
Around an eight-minute walk from the GPO, in a beautiful Georgian house is the James Joyce Centre founded by Irish Senator, one-time Presidential Candidate, and renowned Joycean scholar, David Norris. The museum is dedicated to all things Joycean, and although the writer never lived in the property, he had a connection to it through a real-life character featured in Ulysses, Prof. Denis J. Maginni, who ran a dance academy here. The building was condemned in the 1980s, but was ultimately saved and restored through a campaign spearheaded by David Norris.
Address: 35 North Great George’s Street, Dublin 1
Official site: http://jamesjoyce.ie/
10 National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History (Collins Barracks)
Originally an army barracks, the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History opened in 1997. The collections include silver, ceramics, jewelry, furniture, Irish haute couture fashion, and exhibitions exploring Irish military history. There are several other permanent exhibitions including a retrospective of modernist designer Eileen Gray, Irish Silver dating from the 17th to 20th centuries, Asian Art, Irish Country Furniture, and Soldiers and Chiefs, which displays historic military artefacts and uniforms.
Hours: Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 2pm- 5pm, closed Mondays
An 18-minute walk from Collins Barracks is Dublin Zoo in Phoenix Park. This is the largest enclosed urban park in Europe, some 1,750 acres, which is surprising given that Dublin is a relatively small capital city. Hundreds of deer roam the parkland, the President of Ireland’s official residence (Áras an Uachtaráin) is here along with Deerfield, a beautiful 18th-century property home to the American Ambassador to Ireland. There’s a Visitors Centre located close to a 17th-century tower house, Ashtown Castle, for those wishing to find out more about the park and its environs. At the far Castleknock Gate end and on some 78 acres stands stately Farmleigh House dating from the 1800s and purchased by the Irish state from the Guinness family in 1999.
For generations of Dubliners and those coming from abroad, the main draw is Dublin Zoo, which attracts more than one million visitors annually, dates back to 1830, and is the second oldest zoo in Europe. A trip to the zoo is a day out in itself. Amongst other rare and exotic animals there are Asian lions, Asian elephants, a Reptile House, an orangutan enclosure, sea lions, tigers, hippos, bats, and penguins. Facilities include restaurants, kids play areas, and a family farm.
Hours: Phoenix Park – Open daily 7am-11pm, Visitors Centre – Open June-October 10am-6pm, seasonal variations, Dublin Zoo – Open daily Monday-Saturday 9.30am-6pm, Sunday 10.30am-6pm, seasonal variations
Admission: Adult €16.50, under 16s €11.80, seniors €12.80, under 3 years free
The forbidding gaol (jail), dating from 1789, truly is a notorious site in the history of Irish nationalism. It was here that the leaders of the 1916 rebels were first incarcerated and then executed for what was seen as an act of high treason. The exhibition in a modern hall gives a taste of what conditions were like and outlines the struggle for Irish independence. There are excellent guided tours throughout the rest of the jail, which cover Irish history from 1796-1924. The Stonebreaker’s Yard is sure to send shivers up the spine, as this is the spot where the leaders of the uprising met their grisly fate.
Hours: Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm, Sunday 10am-6pm
Restored in the 19th century and dominating the surrounding area, Christ Church Cathedral is built on the site of Dublin’s first church, which was founded in 1028 and made of timber. The Great Nave has magnificent early gothic arches, and here you can see the 14th-century replica of the tomb of legendary Norman conqueror Strongbow, who is buried elsewhere in the cathedral. The fragment that lies alongside is said to be part of the original tomb and has the nickname, ‘Strongbow’s son.’ Parts of the vast crypt, which runs the length of the building, date from the 13th century.
Christ Church Cathedral Map
14 St. Patrick’s Cathedral
An easy 7 minute-walk from Christ Church Cathedral, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. Tradition has it that here, St. Patrick baptized converts to Christianity in AD 450. Like Christchurch, the original edifice was timber. In 1192, another church was founded and constructed of stone. Just over a century later, another reconstruction took place and its status was raised to that of cathedral. Over the centuries, much embellishment has occurred, chiefly in the mid 1700s when the steeple was built, and during the late 1800s when there were substantial renovations. Gulliver’s Travels author and satirist Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), who was Dean of St. Patrick’s for 35 years, is interred in a tomb to the right of the entrance beside his long time love ‘Stella’ (Hester Johnson 1681-1728).
Hours: Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-6pm (November-February 9am-5pm), Sunday split opening times
Admission: Adults €5.50, seniors & students €5.50, group rates available
Dublin – St Patrick’s Cathedral Map
15 Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library
Dublin Castle was the site of central administration during 700 years of British rule until 1922. The castle has seen many guises: medieval fortress, vice-regal court, and function of government. In 1534, Irish rebel Silken Thomas (so named for his fine clothes) launched an attack and besieged the castle. Currently, the castle is mainly used for ceremonial occasions, exhibitions, and even concerts. The ornate state apartments are open to visitors and there are a number of museums to explore including the Chester Beatty Library and Gallery.
The museum, founded in 1953 by an American living in Dublin, Chester Beatty, features a fine collection of oriental art and several collections of manuscripts, books, and ancient texts. Among the treasures are French Books of Hours of the 14th and 15th century and a prayer book, which belonged to Philip II of Spain; works of Far Eastern art; Islamic prints; Sanskrit manuscripts (12th-13th century); Indian miniatures; and Babylonian clay tablets (2,500-2,300 BC). There are also European medieval and renaissance manuscripts, Egyptian papyrus texts, and copies of the Qur’an, and the Bible. Buddhist paintings and Turkish and Persian miniatures are also on display, as are woodblock prints from Japan and Chinese dragon robes.
A must see and, surprisingly, just a 25-minute southbound trip on a DART (Dublin’s light rail network) from the city-center is Dalkey and one stop further along, Killiney, although both areas can easily be explored from Dalkey town. It’s recommended to disembark at the earlier stop as there’s an excellent visitor center at Dalkey Castle, which includes information about the area, historic and cultural exhibitions, and best of all, live theater performances as part of a fun guided tour, which scales the heights of the castle ramparts. Dalkey was once the main trading post on Dublin’s east coast, and the harbor at Coliemore Road was the place where medieval cargo ships could off-load their wares. Opposite the harbor is breathtaking Dalkey island, and an uphill stroll of around 15 minutes brings you to Vico Road with stunning views out over Killiney Bay. For more panoramic vistas, continue up to the top of Killiney Hill, a public park that is home to many species of wildlife and birds.
Welcoming and wonderfully rich in culture, Ireland, the “Emerald Isle,” is sure to put a sparkle in your eye. You’ll love its friendly people; laid-back attitude; often tragic yet fascinating history; and its rugged, romantic landscapes. This is “the land of saints and scholars,” with more Nobel Prize winners for literature than any other country in the world. Dublin was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2010.
Places to visit and attractions for tourists are abundant and infinitely varied. The state museums are all free, heritage sites date to prehistory, and there are endless outdoor pursuits to enjoy countrywide, such as horse riding; golf; sailing; and remote, wild islands to explore. And of course, there’s the famous Irish “craic” (good time) wherever you decide to go. This pick of best places to visit is only the beginning of all the things to do in the Republic of Ireland.
1 The Cliffs of Moher
So many superlatives have been used to describe these magnificent cliffs it’s hard to find the right words. Vertigo-inducing and awe-inspiring spring to mind and they are indeed both of these things as well as being utterly wild and ruggedly beautiful. For those who’ve read up on the Emerald Isle prior to visiting, the cliffs will be familiar, starring as they do in countless postcards and guidebooks. Yet no image can ever do them justice. This is Ireland’s most visited natural attraction and with good reason. About one and a half hours by car from Galway, in neighbouring County Clare, the cliffs are visited by close to a million people from across the globe each year. They stretch for eight kilometers along the Atlantic and rise some 214 meters at their highest point. Take a walk along the trail to experience the raw power of nature at its most majestic.
So much more than a shopping street, Grafton Street is alive with buskers, flower-sellers, and performance artists. You will also find countless places to stop off and simply watch the world meander by. Café culture has taken off in the capital, and on a sunny day, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in Barcelona or Lisbon. True, this is Dublin’s shopping heartland, but there’s no need to spend a fortune if visiting. You’ll find friendly, chatty service no matter where you go and be entertained from the bottom of the street to St. Stephen’s Green at the top. Grab a coffee or, in the mornings, a legendary Irish breakfast at Bewley’s Oriental Café. Take time as well to duck down the numerous alleyways and streets to see what you can discover.
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3 Killarney National Park and Muckross House & Gardens
If visiting the Kerry region, 19th-century Muckross House and Gardens, set in spectacular Killarney National Park, should be top of the must-see list. Standing close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney’s three lakes that are famed worldwide for their splendor and beauty, this former mansion oozes the grandeur and gentility of bygone days. When exploring, bear in mind that Queen Victoria once visited here. In those days, a royal visit was no small affair; extensive renovations and re-landscaping took place in preparation, and no detail was left to chance. The house and gardens are a real treat and there are Jaunting Cars (Killarney’s famous horse & traps) to take you around the grounds in style. The adjacent Traditional Farms are also well worth taking in for a taste of how the ordinary folk once lived.
The Killarney National Park & Lakes region is filled with beautiful scenery, and any route through it will reveal view after view of its lakes and mountains. A highlight in the western part of Killarney National Park is the 11-kilometer drive over the scenic Gap of Dunloe, a narrow and rocky mountain pass carved by glaciers at the close of the Ice Age. The gap separates Purple Mount and its foothills from Macgillycuddy’s Reeks. Another highlight in this national heritage site is Ross Castle. Winding lanes and cycling paths are among the best ways to see the park.
Address: Killarney National Park, Muckross, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Official site: http://www.killarneynationalpark.ie
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4 The Book of Kells and Trinity College, Dublin
Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College in Dublin is one of the country’s ancient treasures. Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity is a world within a world, once you enter the gates and cross the cobblestones, it’s as if the modern, thriving city outside simply melts away. A stroll in and around the grounds is a journey through the ages and into the hushed world of scholarly pursuit. Many shop and office workers take their lunchtime sandwiches here during summer months simply to escape the hustle and bustle outside. The college is famed for its priceless treasures including the awe-inspiring Book of Kells (on permanent exhibition) and the mind-boggling Long Room (the inspiration for the library in the first Harry Potter movie).
Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2
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Featured in many a rebel song and occupying a notoriously dark place in Irish history, Kilmainham Gaol should be high on the list for those with any interest in Ireland’s troubled past. It was here that the leaders of the 1916 Uprising were brought and, after being convicted of High Treason, executed in the prison yard. The only one spared was future Irish President Eamon De Valera who, by virtue of his American citizenship, didn’t suffer the same grisly fate. Dating from 1796, the prison was a dank vile institution that housed those guilty of such misdemeanours as being unable to pay their train fares and, during the famine, the destitute and hungry. In Irish eyes, Kilmainham became an irrevocable symbol of oppression and persecution. A visit here will open your eyes and senses and remain with you indelibly. The yard mentioned earlier is particularly spine chilling. In short, this is one of Ireland’s absolute must-sees.
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6 The Ring of Kerry
If in Kerry, take the time to explore what is arguably Ireland’s most scenic route, the Ring of Kerry (Iveragh Peninsula). Of course you can start anywhere along the way, however most set out from either Kenmare or Killarney ending, naturally enough, back in the same spot. The entire journey non-stop could take under three hours, but that’s unlikely to happen. En-route there’s a feast of jaw-dropping Atlantic Ocean views, stunning islands to visit, wild sweeping mountains, and many picturesque villages. This area of astounding natural beauty boasts a range of outdoor pursuits including golf, water sports on pristine beaches, cycling, walking, horse-riding, and terrific freshwater fishing and deep-sea angling. For history enthusiasts, there are Ogham Stones, Iron Age forts, and ancient monasteries, all set against a canvas of striking landscapes.
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7 Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Magical and mysterious, Glendalough is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. The settlement was established by St. Kevin during the 6th century and eventually evolved into what’s known as the Monastic City. Visitors have flocked to the valley of the two lakes for thousands of years to absorb its rich history, magnificent scenery, plentiful wildlife, and fascinating archaeological finds. The monastic site with its incredibly preserved round tower is a joy to explore, and the surrounding woodlands and lakes are perfect for rambling through at your leisure or stopping off for a picnic. There are marked nature trails to follow and a Visitor Centre for all the information you’ll need for a day out like no other.
Address: Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
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Glendalough Map
8 Powerscourt House and Gardens, Co. Wicklow
Powerscourt House and Gardens, Co. Wicklow
Superb views, serene lakeside walks, engaging history, and the stunning backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain are just some of the treats in store when visiting this magnificent home, just 20 kilometers from Dublin. Now owned by the Slazenger family, the house is set on 47 manicured acres. Take time to stroll through the Rose and Kitchen Gardens and explore the beautiful Italian Gardens. There are more than 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and particularly moving is a section where much-loved family pets were buried complete with headstones and inscriptions. The gardens were laid out over a period of 150 years and were designed to create an estate that blends harmoniously with the surroundings. On site, in the former Palladian home, are craft and design shops and an excellent café/restaurant. Truly one of the most majestic attractions in Ireland, a visit here shouldn’t be missed.
Address: Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow
Official site: http://powerscourt.com/
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9 The Little Museum of Dublin
The Little Museum of Dublin William Murphy / photo modified
A recent addition to the capital’s museums, The Little Museum should be top on the list for anybody wishing to grasp Dublin’s recent history. The museum grew organically from a ‘meet and greet’ service for visitors and quickly became what we see today. As well as informative, personally guided tours, new initiatives include Dublin by Land & Sea and The Green Mile Walking Tour. On permanent exhibition are such items as the lectern used by John F. Kennedy during his 1963 visit to Ireland and a U2 exhibition with mementos donated by band members themselves. This is a joyful museum that celebrates Dublin with all its quirkiness and humor.
Ireland’s most visited heritage site, the Rock of Cashel, stars in countless images of the Emerald Isle. Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain even visited by helicopter during her 2011 official tour of the country. Perched upon a limestone rock formation in the Golden Vale, this magnificent group of Medieval buildings includes the High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, the 12th-century round tower, a 15th-century castle, and a 13th-century Gothic cathedral. The restored Hall of the Vicars Choral is also among the structures. Tourist attractions include an audio-visual show and exhibitions. It’s also said that this was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster prior to the Norman invasions.
Address: Cashel, Co. Tipperary
11 Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone
Possibly Ireland’s best-known attraction, the Blarney Stone sits high on a tower of Blarney castle, not far from Cork. Reputed to endow the famed Irish eloquence to those who dare hang their head over the parapets to kiss it, the stone is not the only reason for visiting Blarney Castle.
It was built more than 600 years ago by Irish chieftain Cormac McCarthy, and you can tour the massive stone building from its towers to its dungeons. Extensive gardens surround it, filled with stone features and secret corners. Blarney Woollen Mills is known for its sweaters and other knitwear and has a shop selling crystal, porcelain, and other Irish gifts.
Soaked in history, and in a scenic coastal setting at the gateway to West Cork, Kinsale has been attracting large numbers of visitors for decades. The town has a decidedly Spanish feel, particularly in summer. This is hardly surprising bearing in mind that in 1601, three years after the defeat of the Spanish Armada, the Spanish sent a military force to Ireland, most of whom disembarked at Kinsale. This led to the English laying siege to the town and ultimately the defeat of Spanish and Irish forces by superior English military might. Kinsale is now a magnet for those who love sailing, fishing, walking, marvellous scenery, and great food. The town is packed with restaurants of all sorts and the seafood on offer is excellent. There’s an annual Gourmet Festival among others, and a visit to imposing Charles Fort shouldn’t be missed.
Official site: http://www.kinsale.ie
13 The Dingle Peninsula and the Wild Atlantic Way
Part of The Wild Atlantic Way, a 1700-mile waymarked route around Ireland’s west and adjacent coasts, the Dingle Peninsula combines wild beauty, history, and a glimpse of traditional Irish culture and language. It’s not by accident; the region is designated as a Gaeltacht, where the Irish language and culture are protected by government subsidies. You’ll hear Gaelic spoken and sung, and read it on signs, although everyone also speaks English. Ending at Dunmore Head, the Irish mainland’s westernmost point, the peninsula is bordered by sandy beaches and ragged cliffs. Stone huts that scatter its open landscapes were built by monks in the early Middle Ages, and you’ll find more stone monuments that date to the Bronze Age.
14 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin
Beloved by Dubliners and with a colorful history, tranquil St. Stephen’s Green is a great place to wind down, enjoy a picnic, or feed the ducks. Incidentally, during the 1916 Uprising, special dispensation was given on both sides to the park keepers. Hostilities ceased daily so that the ducks could be properly fed. It could only happen in Dublin. Nowadays ‘The Green’, as it’s known locally, boasts beautifully maintained gardens, the ubiquitous Duck Pond, a picturesque bridge, recreation grounds, mature trees to rest beneath, and a playground. Around the perimeter are many of Dublin’s premier Georgian buildings as well as the iconic Shelbourne Hotel, founded in 1824, where afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge is considered by many to be a real treat.
Read More:
16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin
15 Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
A visit to the Shannon region wouldn’t be complete without coming here. Dating from 1425, the castle is the best-preserved medieval fortress in Ireland and was lovingly restored in the 1950s. Containing a fine array of 15th- and 16th-century furnishings and tapestries, the castle will transport you back to ancient medieval times. The themed banquets in the evenings are great fun, although certain guests who misbehave run the risk of being sent to the dungeons below. The impressive Folk Park brings the Ireland of a century ago vividly to life. Featuring more than 30 buildings in a village and rural setting, the folk park has village shops, farmhouses, and streets to explore. It’s all great fun for families and kids.
Address: Bunratty, Co. Clare
16 The English Market, Cork
No visit to Cork would be complete without dropping by the English Market. Although it’s a tad ironic that what is arguably Cork city’s best attraction should contain the word ‘English’ as Cork folk usually see themselves as far more ideologically and culturally removed from neighbouring Britain than their Dublin counterparts. Having said that, they hold a special place in their hearts for this quirky covered market, which stocks the best of local produce, including the freshest seafood, artisan breads, and excellent cheeses. A market has existed on the site since the late 1700s, although the distinctive entrance on Princes Street dates from 1862. Recent worldwide fame came when Queen Elizabeth II dropped by on her first ever state visit to the Republic of Ireland in 2011. Iconic images of her sharing a joke with Fishmonger Pat O’Connell were beamed across the globe. For those who wish to linger a while, there’s coffee to go and cozy Farmgate Restaurant upstairs.
Address: Princes Street, Cork (off St. Patrick’s Street & Grand Parade)
Official site: http://www.englishmarket.ie
17 The Aran Islands
Originally brought to world attention in 1934 by the fictionalised documentary Man of Aran, these islands have been entrancing visitors ever since. This is a taste of Ireland as it once was. Gaelic is the first language, there are a mere 12,000 inhabitants, and once ashore, you’ll feel as if you’re in a time warp. There are three islands, the largest being Inishmore, then Inishmaan, and the smallest is Inisheer. Wild, windswept, rugged, and utterly unique, the islands offer a visitor experience quite like no other. Once experienced, the great stone fort of Dun Aonghasa and the towering cliffs of Aran will never be forgotten. The local culture is quite different from that of the mainland, the archaeological heritage cannot be found elsewhere and the rich scenery is simply breathtaking.
More Must-See Places to Visit near Ireland
In addition to those in Dublin and the Republic of Ireland, you’ll find plenty more attractions to visit in Northern Ireland and its capital of Belfast. Wales is less than two hours away by ferry. You can reach Holyhead, in North Wales near Snowdonia National Park, from Dublin. Fishguard, on the Pembrokeshire coast in South Wales, is three hours from Rosslare (near Wexford). The Isle of Man is a three-hour ferry trip from Dublin.
Gorgeous and glittering Monaco is a tiny royal principality on the French Riviera. Less than two square kilometers in size, it is perhaps the most glamorous little stretch of land on the planet. There is a seductive quality to the scenery, with its deep blue sea, graceful palm trees, and vibrant flowers. The most dramatic feature is the steep, rocky promontory jutting out into the Mediterranean, called “Le Rocher” (“The Rock”), which contains historic Monaco, also known as Monaco-Ville. Full of charming, narrow streets, Monaco-Ville dates back to the 13th century when the principality was founded.
A place of sublime natural beauty, Monaco has the lush vegetation and balmy weather of the Côte d’Azur. It’s a quick (30-minute) train ride away from Nice, but it has the feel of another world. Considered to have Europe’s highest per capita income, Monaco exudes an air of extravagant wealth, as seen in the upscale hotels, designer boutiques, luxury yachts, and opulent restaurants.
See also: Where to Stay in Monaco
1 Monte-Carlo
Indulge in the extravagant world of Monaco where decadence and luxury are a way of life. Despite its small size, Monaco packs an enormous amount of glitz. Monte Carlo is the district with the most glamorous atmosphere, in a setting of stunning natural beauty. Monte-Carlo stands on a rocky promontory to the north of the Port of Monaco. There are breathtaking seaside views from the gorgeous terrace of Place du Casino. As Monaco’s wealthiest district, Monte-Carlo attracts the rich and famous. Ferraris and “beautiful people” fit right into this neighborhood. For tourists, Monte-Carlo is a great place for people-watching or to enjoy fine dining. Gourmands can choose from three Michelin-starred restaurants as well as other excellent options. Monte-Carlo is intersected by two elegant boulevards, the Boulevard Princesse Charlotte in the west and the Boulevard des Moulins at its southwestern end. There are many fashionable shopping streets, such as the Avenue de la Costa with its luxury boutiques. The Opera House is also in this district.
2 Palais du Prince
In a unique position high above the sea on the picturesque peninsula of Le Rocher, the Palais du Prince is home to the oldest monarchy in the world. The Genoese noble family of Grimaldi established Monaco in 1297 after they captured the land from the Republic of Genoa. Originally built in the 13th century as a Genoese fortress, the site affords panoramic views, which provided defensive purposes in the Middle Ages. The fortress was renovated throughout the centuries and transformed into a luxurious Louis-XIV-style palace.
The State Apartments of the Palais du Prince is a private residence but is open to the public at certain times of the year. (Check the official website for opening times.) Visitors can see the sumptuous Italianate gallery adorned with 16th- and 17th-century frescoes; the gilded “Blue Room” featuring a resplendent decor of blue and gold; the wood-paneled Mazarin Room; and the Empire-style Throne Room, which has an impressive Renaissance fireplace. Be sure to admire the 17th-century Palatine Chapel and the Main Courtyard, with its monumental 17th-century Carrara marble double staircase. In July and August on some Sundays and Thursdays, the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra performs classical music concerts in the main courtyard. Another tradition of the Sovereign House, the Changing of the Guard takes place every day at 11.55am in front of the palace. This ceremony called the Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince is conducted by the highly trained Palace Guards and accompanied by the Orchestre des Carabiniers du Prince military brass band musicians.
The Musée Oceanographique lies in a spectacular location on Le Rocher, almost 90 meters above sea level. In this dramatic setting, the museum and aquariums stand on massive foundations that took 11 years to build. This is one of the world’s oldest aquariums, commissioned by Prince Albert I, great grandfather of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, and opened in 1910. Constantly evolving, the Oceanographic Museum has world-renowned exhibits of marine science and oceanography. The museum’s valuable scientific collections include finds from the exploration of Prince Albert I and the discoveries of Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
The highlight of Musée Oceanographique is its aquariums containing rare species of fish and marine life in magnificent shapes and colors. There are three Aquariums: the Tropical Aquarium, Mediterranean Aquarium, and Shark Lagoon. More than 6,000 specimens swim around in approximately 100 pools, reconstructed as their natural habitat-including coral reefs. There is also a Turtle Island and a Touch Tank where visitors can feel a sea urchin, stroke a starfish, or hold a baby shark. From La Terrasse Restaurant on the roof terrace, enjoy superb panoramic views of the coastline and the sea. On a clear day, it is possible to see all the way to the Italian Riviera.
Address: Avenue Saint-Martin, Monaco-Ville
Official site: http://www.oceano.mc/en
4 Jardin Exotique
One of the most delightful things to do in Monaco is visit the gloriously scenic Jardin Exotique. The garden is in the Fontvieille area (the more modern section) of Monaco, outside the historic center. For visitors who arrive by car, there is a parking lot above the gardens at 63 Boulevard du Jardin Exotique. Perched on a steep cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, the Exotic Garden is a luxuriant place with flourishing vegetation and mesmerizing views of the sea. Because of the balmy weather and consistency of sunshine on this hillside, tropical plants are able to thrive. Opened in 1933, the gardens contain a remarkable variety of species from Africa and Latin America to the United States and Mexico. A wide variety of succulents flourish in this ideal climate. The gardens are carefully tended and extend dramatically along the craggy mountainside.
The Exotic Garden also has an Observatory Cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The vicinity of the cave was once inhabited by prehistoric humans. Guided tours of the cave are available every hour, beginning at 10am until an hour before closure. To learn more about the prehistoric era and the history of early civilization, visit the Anthropology Museum in the gardens. This museum includes a collection of coins and ornamental objects from the pre-Roman and Roman periods.
This Roman-Byzantine-style cathedral was constructed out of striking white stones from nearby La Turbie. The cathedral is the burial place of the Princes of Monaco and houses tombs of past sovereigns Prince Rainier and Princess Grace. Although the cathedral is relatively modern (built between 1875 and 1884), the interior features an altarpiece by the Niçois painter Louis Bréa dating from 1500. Another noteworthy feature of the sanctuary is the Episcopal throne of Carrara white marble. The cathedral has an impressive grand organ that is used for religious services as well as concerts of holy music. Every Sunday at 10am from September through June, mass is sung by the “Les Petits Chanteurs de Monaco” and the “Cathedral Choir.” The cathedral is open to the public (free admission) for visits except during religious services.
Address: 4 Rue Colonel-Bellando-de-Castro, Monaco-Ville
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6 Les Jardins Saint-Martin
Overlooking the serene blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Les Jardins Saint-Martin lie near the Musée Océanographique and would be an ideal complement to visiting the museum. The gardens feature a statue that commemorates Prince Albert I who was renowned as a marine researcher. The Saint-Martin Gardens extend along the coast around Le Rocher peninsula with its steep cliff facing the sea. These dramatic gardens offer a rich display of exotic species and vibrant flowers that flourish under the Mediterranean sunshine. Small paths that weave around the rocky slopes and grassy ridges invite visitors to take a leisurely stroll. Stop to admire the little ponds, fountains, and beautiful viewpoints. There are benches placed in just the right spots to relax and take in the gorgeous scenery.
Address: 2 Avenue Saint-Martin, Monaco
7 Formula One Monaco Grand Prix
The famous Formula One Monaco Grand Prix race takes place in Monte-Carlo every year on the last weekend in May. This is the only car race in the world that is held on city streets. The course runs from the Boulevard Albert 1 up toward Place du Casino and around the harrowing turn in front of the Monte-Carlo Fairmont Hotel. Organized by the Automobile Club of Monaco, the Monaco Grand Prix is one of the world’s most popular sporting events. The narrow streets are not ideal for the race cars, but the race continues for the sake of tradition (it has been going since the early 20th century). Because of the crowds, it’s difficult to get a good view, but the atmosphere is worth it. Another big event in May on the French Riviera is the Cannes Film Festival.
8 Opéra de Monte-Carlo (Salle Garnier)
Opéra de Monte-Carlo (Salle Garnier)
The Monte-Carlo Opera House is found on the Place du Casino, a lavish public square in Monaco’s most glamorous neighborhood. Lined by palm trees, this splendid square features an impressive fountain and a terrace with superb views of the coastline. The Opera House fits right into this elegant scene. Built in 1878, it was designed by Charles Garnier, the architect of the Opera House in Paris. The auditorium of the Opera House, called the “Salle Garnier” is entirely decorated in red and gold, with a profusion of intricate bas-reliefs, amazing frescoes, and striking sculptures. The Salle Garnier was inaugurated by Sarah Bernhardt in 1879. For more than a century, opera and ballet have entertained audiences here, and the Opera House has welcomed many world-class opera singers. The Monte-Carlo Opera House offers mostly classic operas but also hosts other musical recitals, concerts, and ballet performances. The Opera Season begins with a Gala Opening event in September and runs from September through April. Although the Salle Garnier is the main venue for the Monaco Opera, some performances are held at the Salle des Princes and the Salle Kreizberg.
Address: Place du Casino, Monte-Carlo, Monaco
9 Monaco Harbor
Monaco Harbor Trish Hartmann / photo modified
At the foot of the cliff, Monaco’s harbor is a busy port scene packed with yachts. The square-shaped harbor (Port de la Condamine) was constructed between 1901 and 1926 to provide berthing for large numbers of yachts. Many luxury yachts are docked here, including the Prince’s private vessel. As would be expected for a capital of yachting, Monaco has a prestigious Yacht Club in front of the marina. The Yacht Club de Monaco on Quai Louis II brings together more than 1,600 members (private yacht owners) from 66 different countries. The Yacht Club is presided over by HSH Prince Sovereign Albert II, who founded the club in 1953. In keeping with its high-profile image, the club hosts events such as yacht shows, races, the biennial Monaco Classic Week (a weeklong presentation of vintage boats), and the Fête de la Mer (a festival of water sports and maritime activities).
The port is a pleasant area to stroll or stop for a snack. There are many restaurants and cafés with outdoor seating to enjoy the seaside setting. From the port, tourists can also take a boat cruise (two- to four-hour ride) around Monaco to see the dreamy coastline. Many travelers also enjoy taking a full-day boat trip from Monaco to Cannes or Nice and other nearby resort towns on the French Riviera. Those exploring further into La Condamine district will find the charming Eglise Sainte-Dévote in a ravine-like valley on the northern edge of the town at Place Sainte-Dévote. This 11th-century votive chapel is dedicated to the local patron saint.
10 Nouveau Musée National de Monaco
The Nouveau Musée National de Monaco spans two separate villas, the Villa Paloma near the Exotic Gardens and the Villa Sauber on Avenue Princess Grace. The museum celebrates contemporary art with temporary exhibitions of avant-garde paintings, drawing, and photography. Since 2009, the museum also has added fine arts
11 Princess Grace Rose Garden
This exquisite garden was created by Prince Rainier III as a tribute to his wife Princess Grace and was opened on 18 June 1984. In Fontvieille Park, the Princess Grace Rose Garden encompasses almost four hectares including a small lake bordered by palm trees and an olive grove. The garden flourishes with 8,000 rose bushes in 300 varieties. Each rose has an identifying QR code (useful for gardeners). Special roses are named for the Princes and Princesses of the Grimaldi Royal Family. Choose a favorite flower and admire the contemporary sculptures among the blossoms. Spend some time relaxing on the park benches or go for a stroll around the grounds. Pleasant footpaths allow visitors to explore this charming place at leisure. The Rose Garden is maintained using eco-friendly practices and has been awarded the label of “Ecological Garden.”
Address: Avenue des Guelfes, Monaco
12 Collection de Voitures Anciennes (Collection of Vintage Cars)
On the Terraces of Fontvieille in Monaco’s most modern neighborhood, this wonderful collection exhibits the Prince of Monaco’s vintage cars. The collection brings together almost 100 antique cars of various vintages and models, all made by prestigious European and American car companies. There are also six historic coaches on display.
Address: Terrasses de Fontvieille, Monaco
13 Jardin Japonais
Escape to an authentic Japanese garden in a beautiful French Riviera setting. Built right onto a steep hillside in the eastern end of Monaco, the Jardin Japonais replicates a Zen garden with lush vegetation, water, and stones. The 7,000 square meter park includes a rushing waterfall, crystal-clear stream, and even a beach. This peaceful garden has a special atmosphere of harmony and serenity.
Address: Avenue Princesse Grace, Monte-Carlo
14 Musée de la Chapelle de la Visitation
In the spectacular setting of Le Rocher at the Place de la Visitation is the former Chapelle de la Visitation. This stunning 17th-century Baroque chapel has been converted into a noteworthy museum. The remarkable collection includes sacred works of art donated by Mrs. Piasecka Johnson. Among the masterpieces are paintings by Rubens, Zurbaran, Ribera, and Italian masters of the Baroque period.
Address: Place de la Visitation, Monaco-Ville
15 Fort Antoine: Outdoor Performances
Built on the northeastern edge of Le Rocher, this historic military fortress is now used as an outdoor theater. On balmy summer evenings, the theater offers an enchanting setting to watch performances under the stars. Tickets are required to attend performances here (all performances are in French), which take place on Monday evenings at 9:30pm. Otherwise the venue is open to the public (free admission) from Monday through Friday from 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm. The theater has a capacity of 350 spectators in tiered semicircular seating. The main reason to visit this site is the sweeping viewpoint. From Fort Antoine, it is possible to see the coastline of the French Riviera all the way to Antibes and the area around Cannes as well as in the other direction towards Menton and Italy.
Address: Avenue de la Quarantaine, Monaco-Ville
16 Moneghetti District
Seemingly endless steps and roads with hairpin bends wind around the eastern slope of Monaco, from the Tête de Chien to the Moyenne Corniche. These roads give access to the district of Moneghetti in the west of the principality, a part of the town built on terraces with lovely villas and gardens.
17 Michelin-Starred Fine Dining
Monaco is famous for its fine-dining scene, which caters to a discerning clientele. The fancy restaurants are designed for gourmands who appreciate the best meals that money can buy. For those prepared to splurge, there are several legendary restaurants to try. The most renowned is Le Louis XV restaurant, which boasts three Michelin stars and features the haute Mediterranean cuisine of Alain Ducasse, prepared with the freshest local ingredients. Second in line is Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo, with two Michelin stars. Located in the opulent Belle Epoque-style Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, Le Vistamar has one Michelin star and offers distinctive modern cuisine, served on a terrace overlooking the sea. Another place to dine al fresco with dazzling views, the Michelin-starred Blue Bay restaurant at the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort features a trendy setting and intricate cuisine with a subtle West Indian influence. The restaurant’s Chef Marcel Ravin hails from the Caribbean island of Martinique. In the upscale Asian cuisine category, Yoshi delights guests with delicate, contemporary Japanese dishes. Yoshi is a collaboration between Joël Robuchon and Chef Takéo Yamazaki and has one Michelin star
Bahawalpur is capable of 130-kilometer magnificent fort worth drive in the city, for which 40 to 100% of the space is visible for the space of about 40 emirs. In this effect, in the 9th century, a Rajput was built this fort and with its 5-foot wall side.
Noor Mahal
Noor Mahal is a wonderful and most interesting architecture palace in the city of Bahawalpur. This palace was made in 1872 for his wife of Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan. This palace is open for public for every time and also use for state guest house.
Darbar Mahal
Darbar Mahal is one of the most beautiful royal palaces in Bahawalpur. This drift, Bahawal Khan commissioned for his wife and was completed in 1905. In 1971 has not been open for space but now you can also see me in my beautiful way.
Gulzar Mahal
Gulzar Mahal has got the chance to have the first building in Bahawalpur so that the wiring of electricity is concealed and commissioned by Nawab Sadiq Mohammad Khan. With the help of Noor Mahal, it is in the form of architecture and is able to travel far and away.
Abbassi Mosque
Abbassi Mosque is the most beautiful and historical mosque in Bahawalpur. This mosque was built by Bahawal Khan in 1849 by the most beautiful and high-quality marble.
Central Library
This is the second largest library in Punjab. It is beautiful and without introspecting architecture how fast the introduction is. This library has a magnificent magnanimity of about 100,000 books and even in the eyes of the eye in the eyes of the date of 1947, it was present in all the fun of the procession. This also tastes and physically restricts the vulnerability of malfunction.
Lal Sohanra National Park
This is the largest park in South Asia. It is not good enough to light the thin land In which desert, wielded And forest ecosystem. It is about 25 kilometers in Bahawalpur And spread over 127480 acres of area.
Sadiq Dane High School
It was established in the year 1911 on behalf of Bahawalpur Nawab it’s also known as Boys High School. In this splendid tragedy, with the clock tower, there is still a perfect fall and more than two thousand students get the education here.
Farid Gate
Bahawalpur is great historical places in Pakistan. Bahawalpur was a walled city with history with which there were seven gates and one of Farid gate which is still standing there.
Bahawalpur is included in the city on the historical city of Pakistan, so check these places in Bahawalpur which you have never visited before.
Often seen as simply a beach destination, Tunisia has a bucketful of surprising tourist attractions and things to do for those that venture off the sandy shores. This is North Africa wrapped up into one bite-sized package, with vast Sahara dunes, mammoth ancient ruins, and exotic cities that are home to a sprawling tangle of souks. Tunisia was Rome’s breadbasket, and the cultural riches the Romans left behind are more than enough reason to visit. But the history of Arab Empires has also bestowed the country with some of the region’s most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture.
When you’ve craned your neck at Kairouan’s minarets and played gladiator at El Djem, it’s time to head into the Sahara to sample the raw, empty beauty of the desert. The sun-soaked beaches of the Mediterranean coastline, fringed by palms and lapped by gentle waves, will still be waiting for you when you get back.
1 El Djem Amphitheater
The walls of the mighty Roman amphitheater of El Djem dwarf the surrounding modern town. This incredibly well preserved Roman relic is Tunisia’s big sightseeing highlight and one of the best examples of amphitheater architecture left standing in the world, reminding of Rome’s once grand grip across North Africa. You can still walk the corridors under the arena, just like the gladiators did. Or, climb up to the top seating tiers and sit staring across the arena, imagining the battles that took place below.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Tunisia
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Exploring El Djem: A Visitor’s Guide
2 Djerba
If you’re looking for the picture-perfect beach escape, then the island of Djerba checks all the right boxes. The island town of Houmt Souk is the main point of interest off the beach, with an old town district that is a muddle of whitewashed houses. Houmt Souk’s shopping is an attraction in itself, with plenty of handicraft vendors for browsing and haggling opportunities off the beach. But it’s those sandy strips of shoreline out of town that are the island’s most popular highlight. Pristine and trimmed by date palms, the beaches are relaxing, get-away-from-it-all settings where summer daydreams are made.
Accommodation: Where to Stay on Djerba island
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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Djerba
3 Carthage
Once Rome’s major rival, Carthage was the city of the seafaring Phoenicians forever memorialized in the Punic Wars. The atmospheric ruins of this ancient town now sit beside the sea amid the suburbs of Tunis, a warning that even the greatest cities can be reduced to rubble. The ruins are extensive but spread out, and if you’ve been lucky enough to visit ancient city sites such as Ephesus in Turkey or Volubilis in Morocco, which are well-preserved, Carthage can seem quite underwhelming at first. But these UNESCO World-Heritage-listed remnants are hugely important historically, and any tourist interested in North Africa’s ancient past shouldn’t miss a visit here.
Read More:
Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Carthage: A Visitor’s Guide
4 The National Bardo Museum
Even non-museum fans can’t fail to be impressed at the massive haul of beautiful mosaics exhibited inside the Bardo. This is one of North Africa’s top museums, and it houses one of the world’s most important mosaic collections, all curated beautifully. It’s a showcase of the dazzling, intricate artistry of the Roman and Byzantine eras, with pieces cherry-picked from every major archaeological site in Tunisia. If you only have one day in Tunisia’s capital, Tunis, this museum should be high up on your to-do list.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Tunis
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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tunis
5 Sidi Bou Said
Impossibly cute, and amazingly photogenic, Sidi Bou Said is a clifftop village of petite dimensions that seem to have fallen off an artist’s canvas. Unsurprisingly, artists have feted this little hamlet for decades. The whitewashed alleyways, wrought-iron window frames, and colorful blue doors are Tunisian village architecture at their finest, while the Mediterranean backdrop is the cherry on top. This is a place to while away a lazy afternoon, simply soaking up the laid-back atmosphere and maybe indulging in a spot of shopping at one of the many local artisan and handicraft stalls.
Tunisia’s vast Sahara covers much of the country’s interior, and the most beautiful corner of the desert is the field of sand dunes known as the Grand Erg Oriental. These poetically beautiful dunes are a surreal and gorgeous landscape of huge waves, shaped by the ever-shifting desert sands. For many visitors, this is an adventure playground for riding dune buggies and camel treks, but nothing tops the simple pleasure of sitting atop one of these mammoth sand mountains and watching the sun set over the Sahara.
7 Bulla Regia
Tunisia has no shortage of Roman ruins, but Bulla Regia near Tabarka is the country’s most interesting and intriguing site. Here, the Roman inhabitants coped with the harsh summer climate by ingeniously building their villas underground, which has left the city houses incredibly well preserved today. For history lovers, this is a unique opportunity to walk through actual Roman houses, with their walls still intact. It’s a glimpse of the residential life of the ancient world that you often don’t see.
8 Kairouan
With mosques, madrassas, and tombs aplenty, Kairouan has more than its fair share of monuments as the fourth most important city for those of the Muslim faith. The Arabic architecture here is truly inspiring, and the skyline is full of skinny minarets and bulky domes. But it’s probably the back alleys of the city’s medina that steal the show. With narrow, maze-like lanes lined with crumbling colorful houses, Kairouan’s old town has an enchanting, lost-in-time atmosphere that is a true highlight of a visit here.
Sousse Medina
Overlooked by the mighty fortifications of the Ribat and Kasbah, the medina in Sousse just begs to be explored. This lovely old town district is a warren of looping lanes, rimmed by whitewashed houses, and a shopping paradise with a tempting selection of ceramics, leatherwork, and metalwork on display. Away from the stalls along the bustling souk streets, the quiet and rambling back alleys, dusted in white and blue, are a charming place to dive in and sample local life.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Sousse
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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sousse
10 Chott el Djerid
Chott el Djerid
The moonscape surroundings of the Chott el Djerid are a storybook panorama brought to life; filled with shimmering mirages on the horizon and jigsaw puzzle pieces of blindingly white cracked land under foot. This sprawling salt pan (most easily reached on a day trip from the desert town of Tozeur) is a desolate and otherworldly scene that wows all who visit with its stark and brutal beauty. A sightseeing trip here proves that nature produces much weirder landscapes than you could ever imagine.
11 Hammamet
Hammamet is all about the beach. This is Tunisia’s top sun-and-sea resort; a dreamy place dotted with pristine white buildings set beside a bright blue sea. The relaxing charms of this town woo all who come to sunbathe on the soft, white sand, with off-the-beach pursuits usually being nothing more strenuous than gentle strolls and a spot of shopping in the restored old town souks. It’s a no stress kind of place that sums up the pleasures of Tunisia in one pretty package.
One of Tunisia’s most photographed buildings and a film star to boot, the Ribat in Monastir is a bulky walled and exceptionally well-preserved fort. Looming over the harbor, the Ribat was originally part of a string of forts that protected the coastline, but today is one of the few still standing. Its defensive purposes may have long since faded, but this golden-stoned relic is now one of Tunisia’s most recognizable landmarks (thanks to it featuring in a few famous movies), and today, tourists scramble up into its bastion tower, rather than soldiers.
There’s no question about it: Libya is in turmoil. Since the popular uprisings of the Arab Spring in 2011 and following more than 40 years of iron-fist rule by one Muammar Gaddafi, the country has hardly emerged well. Today, civil war and factional disputes still rage across the nation, extremism is rife, and much of the old beauty lies in ruins. But all wars must end, and hopes that Libya will one day return once again to the tourist fold remain very much alive.
So, FCO warnings and travel bans of today notwithstanding, we look to the future with optimism: to a time when this great slab of the old Maghreb can showcase its glorious Roman ruins and crumbing Greek cities; when the energy of metropolises like Tripoli and Benghazi can wow travelers; when the rugged Mediterranean coastline can shine and shimmer; and when the deep Islamic cultures and histories of the place can peak through in the dusty medinas and Bedouin camel towns alike.
Lets explore the best places to visit in Libya:
Tripoli
Before the tumult of the civil war and the rising of the Arab spring, Tripoli was a poster boy for North African heritage.
Its winding labyrinth of backstreets melded the warmth and colours of the Med with the dusty and historic character of the Sahel.
Street vendors touted spice-covered, ghee-doused bazins from the roadside stalls; teahouses throbbed with the mellifluous tones of Arabic chatter and the twisting fumes of shisha pipes.
And at the center of town visitors would find the grand Assaraya al-Hamra, spilling itself into the tight-knit lanes of the medina in a medley of mosque minarets and formidable Ottoman towers.
Leptis Magna
Founded by the Phoenician Greeks sometime in the first millennium BC, and then raised to greatness by the Romans, who flocked to this coastal spot in western Syria to secure their strongholds in North Africa after the Carthage Wars, Leptis Magna is quite possibly the single most impressive ancient site in the country (sorry Cyrene!). While some sections of the old temples and peristyles here have been transferred to museums and parks in England, the majestic likes of the grand theatre, arches dedicated to Septimius Severus, the fortification walls, some early Roman basilicas, and the crumbling marketplace all still remain.
Benghazi
Much-ravaged Benghazi has had its fair share of troubles in Libya’s wars.
And while the city continues to rattle in the throes of factional trouble, it is trying to shake of the memory of those hard-fought battles during the campaigns of 2011 and 2012, and re-establish itself again as one of the principle port towns in North Africa.
Glimmers of the glorious past still remain too, like the elegant whitewashed homes of the Italian Quarter, the sun-kissed corniche called Lungomare on the Med (palm-peppered and pretty), the old Latin lighthouse on the shore, and the picturesque Maydan al-Shajara square in the very center of city.
Cyrene
A legendary patchwork of temples and ancient townhouses that sits perched atop the Mediterranean cliffs in eastern Libya, Cyrene is one of the greatest relics the Greeks left in North Africa.
Once a booming mercantile colony built by the seafarers of Santorini, the city played host to Hellenic merchants, the heirs of Alexander the Great, and, later, Roman generals and armies.
Today it lies half in ruins; abandoned since it was rocked by a great earthquake in the 4th century AD. Visitors come to tour the colossal shrines to Demeter, see the necropolis, and explore the revered Sanctuary of Apollo.
Ghadames
Whitewashed homes scramble over one another in the heart of desert-shrouded Ghadames.
Meanwhile, winding alleyways hemmed in with adobe walls weave back and forth through the medina that forms the middle of the city – a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right.
Nestled between the sand dunes of the northern Sahara just a stone’s throw from the Algerian border, this earthy little Berber outpost is hailed as one of the real jewels of the nation’s backcountry.
Travelers come to explore its palm-peppered roads and shady terraces, and get a glimpse of the Libya that time forgot.
Ghat
This far-flung town on the edge of the historic Fezzan region was once one of the principal trading points on the Sahara-Sahel caravan route.
Topped by its great mud-brick castle, Ghat still looks the part too, especially with all those crumbling old neighborhoods of adobe Berber homes spreading out from the base of the central mount.
However, the fortress seen today was not actually even there when the kings of the Garamantian Empire ruled the trade links between Carthage and the south in antiquity.
It was built later by the Italians and today, along with the rugged caves and cliffs of the Tadrart Acacus mountains, forms the major point of interest in the town.
Sabratha
Like Cyrene before it, Sabratha followed the predictable trajectory of a onetime Greek colony on the North African coast.
First, it was a receptacle for Mediterranean goods coming southwards, and a marketplace for exotic African goods coming from sub-Sahara.
Later, the whole city was taken over by the Romans, who raised great temples to both local and imperial gods.
There are remnants of a Christian basilica built by Justinian too, along with the grand mosaics that once adorned the interior.
However, the piece de resistance is the ancient theatre, which erupts from the desert in a series of lurching Doric peristyles and arcades.
Sirte
The birthplace of one Colonel Muammar Gaddafi has not fared well in Libya’s recent upheavals.
Targeted by the rebel forces and used by the loyalists for their last stand, hardly a single street went unscathed in the ensuing Battle of Sirte in 2011. It was here that the onetime leader of the nation was finally captured and killed, marking the end of his more than 40-year-long rule.
Today, other conflicts engulf the town, but efforts are being made to rebuilt and reconstruct the spot, which was once a colonial outpost of both the Ottomans and the Italians.
Tobruk
Like many cities in Libya, Tobruk has seen its fair share of carnage in the last 100 years.
However, Tobruk is best known as a battlefield of a different era: The Second World War.
During the early 1940s, this town was the site of some of the fiercest skirmishes between Allied and Axis troops in the region.
The ordeals were finally settled by the Second Battle of El Alamein.
In the modern era Tobruk remained steadfastly loyal to the Libyan monarchy, and was quick to rise with the tide of the Arab Spring.
Visitors will get to tour the site of these totemic events, and unravel tales of Greek, Roman and Berber history besides.
Misrata
Lining up along the shimmering Mediterranean coast, the 500,000-strong city of Misrata (also spelled Misratah) represents the third-largest in the country.
Founded by the Greeks (like so many towns in these parts), it grew into one of the principal trading ports in North Africa, with a booming harbour at Qasr Ahmad that dealt in both African and European goods.
Most visitors will come to enjoy the sun-kissed beaches that meld with the Saharan dunes to the east and west of town, while others will tour the great city mosques and the multi-cultural array of architecture that imbues the center.
Waw an Namus
Taking us away from Libya’s war-torn cityscapes and ancient sites for a spell of the weird and the wonderful, the black-stained tar and rock fields of Waw an Namus are a truly otherworldly sight to behold.
Set deep in the very heart of the Saharan Desert, the attraction is only just becoming popular with intrepid travelers.
They come to wonder at the great extinct volcanic cone that rises from the sands, its nearby crater lake (shining like a mirror and forever buzzing with a haze of mosquitoes), and the old caravan oases towns of Al Kufrah and Rebiana.
Msallata
Engulfed by swathes of olive plantations and undulating hills of scrub that roll out to meet the Med and the Sahara to the north and south respectively, it’s one of the prettier spots in the Murqub District.
Visitors to the town, which was the site of some violent clashes during the 2011 revolution, can come and wander rustic olive oil mills and farms.
There’s also a long history to uncover, as Msallata once hailed in as one of the major stop-overs on the way to ancient Leptis Magna during the heyday of Roman rule in these parts.
Al Jawf
Al Jawf is surrounded by the sweeping ochre sands at the very heart of the Libyan Sahara.
A small town, it’s largely made up of low-rise adobe homes and camel-dotted streets that come pot-holed and crooked.
And while there’s little to experience in the city itself apart from the earthy Bedouin character of the place, there’s plenty in the surrounding hinterland.
Yep, Al Jawf is the gateway to the Kufra basin; one of the most strategic agricultural areas in the region, famed for its irrigation capabilities and alien-looking crop circles.
This surrounding territory has been much fought over since time immemorial, just as relics like the crumbling 7th-century granaries at Gasr Al-Hajj reveal.
Waddan
Below the rugged tips of the El-Bhallil mountains and peppered with surprisingly green spots of palm oases, the desert town of Waddan is a great place to come and catch a glimpse of the earthy backcountry character of Libya, and to unravel the deep Islamic histories that have coalesced here over the centuries.
Look up to see the crenulated walls of the great Waddan Castle, which were raised by the onetime Arab rulers of the Maghreb.
Then, be sure to take some time to wander the date palm groves and marketplaces, taking in the bucolic, time-stood-still vibes.
Sabha
The lakeside city of Sabha is home to the striking bulwarks of Fortezza Margherita (now called just Fort Elena): one of the most dramatic and historic of citadels still standing in the country (it’s even depicted on the back of some Libyan banknotes!).
Above that, Sabha is also considered the best gateway to the Fezzan region, which rolls out to meet the Sahara Desert proper in a patchwork of date palm oases and undulating dunes from the southern edges of the town.
Algeria is a grand place in the continent of Africa and Algeria is spread on a very vast space. Lush landscapes, grand architecture or the culture, Algeria has it all. It is a must visit place for everyone and you will love Algeria in its best form. There are many places in Algeria that you can visit. There are many mysterious and beautiful cities that will capture your hearts. Check out the below destinations that you can see when you are here with your friends and family.
Some Of The Top Places To Visit In Algeria Are Listed As Under:
Atakor
The Atakor Plateau is situated in the Ahaggar National Park and is covered with sheer peaks and mountains. The entire area is covered with sands and brown and dry landscape. There is not much transport system available to go to the plateau. There are quite high peaks in the plateau and the place is beautiful in its own majestic terms. The highest peak present there is the Assekrem Plateau which means the ” End of the world” and it rightly justifies the meaning.
Oran
With every kind of beautiful architecture present in the amazing city of Oran, it is one of the most lively city in Algeria which is visited by thousands of people every year. The culture and the theme of Oran is grand and it is engulfed by the Rai music which has its originality in the city. The Casbah, Le Theatre and a great number of mosques are present in Oran.
Annaba
Annaba is famous for the presence of many ruins of villages and temples that were present in the medieval times. Different ports are available in Annaba and it is considered as a natural port. Hippo Regius and other culture forms the main domain of the city.
Ghardaia
When you talk of traditions, religion and foods, then Ghardaia is the name that comes to mind. The dress sense of the people in this city is so bright and they try to look their best. Food and accommodation are the best part of this city. Ghardaia is located in the middle of Sahara Desert and is covered by sand from all sides.
Constantine
From political to cultural to economic era, this city has it all. Constantine is a place of great modern civic sense and it is beautiful in its own special ways. The scenic beauty of the entire area is vastly spread over a huge space. People living here feel an air of fantasy and delight in this amazing city.
Djanet
Djanet is a seaside town in the heart of Algeria. The city is located at a height in the plush mountains which overlooks the city. It is a small little town which has all basic amenities like shops, banks, etc. There is certain beautiful rock collections in this small town located in a national park and people come here to see those rock collections and recollect the past.
Batna
Batna is a main commercial centre located in Algeria and is defined as the agricultural hub of the entire region. The beauty of the place is unique and is filled with cultural centres and cinema complexes. The French Military regime is what Batna is proud of. It is located in between Sahara and Atlas mountains.
Algiers
Algiers is the capital of beautiful mosques and has a rare beauty situated within itself. It is an important landmark of the Muslim community. Algiers is a metropolitan city with modernity engulfing it from all sides. There are disoriented architecture which makes this place worth visiting.
Setif
The city of Setif in Algeria is all known for the Roman Ruins that the city holds within itself. There are certain French culture that is left in the city. Setif is the Real Algeria that people can encounter. This city is located at a height from the sea level. But there are certain disadvantages too of being in the city.
Tlemcen
One place where you can find astounding Moorish Buildings in Algeria is in Tlemcen. Tlemcen looks into the future and is captivated with building the largest university campus that the world has ever seen. These are some worth visiting places in Algeria. With so many travel destinations “Algeria” really worth including to your travel trip list, if you have not yet been to here ever before. So you must not waste your time for giving a second thought to visit this wonderful land that the earth has to explore. Come here today and see what it has to offer to his tourist.
Home of the ancient Pharaohs, Egypt is a dazzling destination of temples and tombs that wow all who visit. It’s not all historic treasures, though. With vast tracts of desert, superb scuba diving, and the famed Nile River, there’s something for everyone here.
Beach lovers head to the Sinai to soak up the sun, while archaeology fans will have a field day in Luxor. Cairo is the megalopolis that can’t be beaten for city slickers, while Siwa oasis and the southern town of Aswan offer a slice of the slow pace of the countryside.
Egypt has so much for travelers to see and do, it’s the perfect country for a mix of activities combining culture, adventure, and relaxation. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in Egypt.
Pyramids of Giza
The last surviving of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza are one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. Built as tombs for the mighty Pharaohs and guarded by the enigmatic Sphinx, Giza’s pyramid complex has awed travelers down through the ages and had archaeologists (and a fair few conspiracy theorists) scratching their heads over how they were built for centuries.
Today, these megalithic memorials to dead kings are still as wondrous a sight as they ever were. An undeniable highlight of any Egypt trip, Giza’s pyramids should not be missed.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Giza
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Pyramids of Giza: Attractions, Tips & Tours
Luxor’s Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings
Famed for the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut, the Nile-side town of Luxor in Upper Egypt has a glut of tourist attractions. This is ancient Thebes, power base of the New Kingdom pharaohs, and home to more sights than most can see on one visit.
While the East Bank brims with vibrant souk action, the quieter West Bank is home to a bundle of tombs and temples that has been called the biggest open-air museum in the world. Spend a few days here exploring the colorful wall art of the tombs and gazing in awe at the colossal columns in the temples, and you’ll see why Luxor continues to fascinate historians and archaeologists.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near Luxor
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Top Tourist Attractions in Luxor & Easy Day Trips
Islamic Cairo
The atmospheric, narrow lanes of the capital’s Islamic Cairo district are crammed full of mosques, madrassas (Islamic schools of learning), and monuments dating from the Fatimid through to the Mameluke eras. This is where you’ll find the labyrinth shopping souk of Khan el-Khalili, where coppersmiths and artisans still have their tiny workshops, and stalls are laden with ceramics, textiles, spice, and perfume.
Surrounding the market is a muddle of roads, home to some of the most beautiful preserved architecture of the old Islamic empires. There is a wealth of history here to explore. Visit Al-Azhar Mosque and the dazzling Sultan Hassan Mosque, and make sure you climb to the roof of the ancient medieval gate of Bab Zuweila for the best minaret-speckled panoramas across the district.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Cairo
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Top Tourist Attractions in Cairo & Easy Day Trips
Aswan
Egypt’s most tranquil town is Aswan, set upon the winding curves of the Nile. Backed by orange-hued dunes, this is the perfect place to stop and unwind for a few days and soak up the chilled-out atmosphere. Take the river ferry across to Elephantine Island and stroll the colorful streets of the Nubian villages. Ride a camel to the desert monastery of St. Simeon on the East Bank. Or just drink endless cups of tea on one of the riverboat restaurants, while watching the lateen-sailed feluccas drift past.
There are plenty of historic sites here and numerous temples nearby, but one of Aswan’s most popular things to do is simply kicking back and watching the river life go by.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Aswan
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Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Aswan
Abu Simbel
Even in a country festooned with temples, Abu Simbel is something special. This is Ramses II’s great temple, adorned with colossal statuary standing guard outside, and with an interior sumptuously decorated with wall paintings. Justly famous for its megalithic proportions, Abu Simbel is also known for the incredible feat, which saw the entire temple moved from its original setting — set to disappear under the water because of the Aswan dam — during the 1960s in a massive UNESCO operation that took four years.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Abu Simbel
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Exploring Abu Simbel: A Visitor’s Guide
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A treasure trove of the Pharaonic world, Cairo’s Egyptian Museum is one of the world’s great museum collections. The faded pink mansion is home to a dazzling amount of exhibits. It’s a higgledy-piggledy place with little labeling on offer and not much chronological order, but that’s half of its old-school charm.
Upstairs is the golden glory of King Tutankhamen and the fascinating royal mummies exhibits, but really every corner you turn here is home to some wonderful piece of ancient art or statuary that would form a highlight of any other museum.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Cairo
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Top Tourist Attractions in Cairo & Easy Day Trips
White Desert
Egypt’s kookiest natural wonder is the White Desert, where surreally shaped chalk mountains have created what looks like a snowy wonderland in the middle of the arid sand. The landscapes here look like something out of a science fiction movie, with blindingly white boulders and iceberg-like pinnacles. For desert fans and adventurers, this is the ultimate weird playground, while anybody who’s had their fill of temples and tombs will enjoy this spectacular natural scenery.
Siwa Oasis
Way out west, Siwa is the tranquil tonic to the hustle of Egypt’s cities. This gorgeous little oasis, surrounded by date palm plantations and numerous fresh water springs, is one of the Western Desert’s most picturesque spots. The town is centered around the ruins of a vast mud-brick citadel that dominates the view. This is a top spot to wind down and go slow for a few days, as well as being an excellent base from which to plan adventures into the surrounding desert.
Alexandria
The most European of Egypt’s cities, Alexandria has a history that not many others can match. Founded by Alexander the Great, home of Cleopatra, and razzmatazz renegade city of the Mediterranean for much of its life, this seaside city has an appealing days-gone-by atmosphere that can’t be beaten. Although today, there are few historic remnants of its illustrious past — feted in songs and books — this is a place made for aimless strolling along the seashore Corniche, café-hopping, and souk shopping.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Alexandria
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Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Alexandria
St. Catherine’s Monastery
One of the oldest monasteries in the world, St. Catherine’s stands at the foot of Mount Sinai, where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments. This desert monastery is home to an incredible collection of religious iconography, art, and manuscripts (some of which can be seen in the on-site museum), as well as the burning bush. For most visitors here, a trip to St. Catherine’s also involves a hike up Mount Sinai to see sunrise or sunset. Take the camel path for the easy route or climb the famous Steps of Repentance if you want better views.
Accommodation: Where to Stay near St. Catherine’s Monastery
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Saint Catherine’s Monastery: A Visitor’s Guide
South Sinai
Egypt’s center for beach fun is the South Sinai region on the Sinai Peninsula. Sharm el-Sheikh is a European-style resort full of luxury hotels, international restaurants, and bags of entertainment options. Dahab is a low-key beach town with a budget-traveler heart, which is just as much about desert excursions and adventures as the sea.
Up the coast, between the port town of Nuweiba and the border town of Taba, are the bamboo hut retreats that offer complete get-away-from-it-all respites from life. Wherever you choose, the South Sinai is all about diving. The Red Sea is one of the top diving destinations in the world, and the South Sinai region is home to most of the best dive sites.
Abydos Temple
Dusty Abydos town wouldn’t make much of a rating on the tourism radar if it wasn’t for the incredible temple on its doorstep. Abydos’ Temple of Osiris is one of ancient Egypt’s most fascinating artistic treasures. Its chunky columns and walls, covered in beautiful hieroglyphics and intricate paintings, are spellbinding sights, and even better, you can admire them without the crowds as despite its dazzling beauty, it receives few visitors compared to the temples in nearby Luxor.
Read More:
Exploring The Temples of Abydos: A Visitor’s Guide
Thistlegorm Dive Site
Below the Red Sea’s surface is another world as fascinating as the temples and tombs on land. Among the many coral reefs off the coast there’s also a glut of shipwrecks that have sunk in the Red Sea’s Gulf of Gubal and Gulf of Aqaba. Of all the wrecks, the most famous is the Thistlegorm, an English WWII cargo ship that was on its way to resupply British troops when it was bombed by the Germans in 1941.
Today the site is regarded by divers as one of the top five wreck dives in the world due to the vast cargo of cars, motorbikes, and WWII memorabilia that can be seen both scattered on the sea bed around the wreck and inside the ship itself. Dive boat trips to the wreck are organized from both Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.
Nile Cruising
Egypt is defined by the Nile. For many visitors a multi-day cruise upon this famed waterway that saw the rise of the Pharaonic era is a highlight of their Egypt trip. Cruising the Nile is also the most relaxing way to see the temples that stud the banks of the river on the route between Luxor and Aswan, plus sunrise and sunset over the date-palm-studded river banks, backed by sand dunes, is one of Egypt’s most tranquil vistas.
The two famous sights on a Nile Cruise are the Temple of Kom Ombo and Edfu’s Temple of Horus, where all the big cruise boats stop. If you’d prefer a less crowded and slower experience though, and don’t mind “roughing it” a bit, you can also cruise the Nile by felucca (Egypt’s traditional lateen-sailed wooden boats), which also allows you to create your own itinerary. Cruise boats depart from both Luxor and Aswan, but feluccas can only be chartered for multi-day trips from Aswan.
Saqqara
Everyone’s heard of Giza’s Pyramids, but they’re not the only pyramids Egypt has up its sleeve. Day-tripping from Cairo, Saqqara is the vast necropolis of the Old Kingdom pharaohs and showcases how the Ancient Egyptians advanced their architectural knowledge to finally create a true pyramid with the Step Pyramid, Bent Pyramid, and Red Pyramid being among the highlights here. The various tombs of court administrators, with interior walls covered with friezes describing daily scenes, scattered throughout the archaeological site are just as much a reason to visit as the pyramids themselves.
Syria is a decently measured Middle Eastern nation circumscribed by Turkey, Lebanon and Iraq. Syria’s scene envelops a wide range of territory – from beach front flatlands to precipitous districts to dry deserts. Along these lines, the atmosphere changes extensively, contingent upon which zone you’re in. Syrian summers are exceptionally sweltering and the winters can be ruthlessly chilly, particularly in the mountain districts. The best time to visit Syria is in the spring, despite the fact that there are a few pinnacle tourism times – including spring and fall. So what are a portion of the things each guest to Syria should see amid their remain? We will take you on a smaller than normal voyage through ten spots to visit in Syria that ought to be on each explorer’s agenda.
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Listed below are some favourite attractions to visit in Syria :
Valley of The Tombs
Hypogeum of the Three Brothers
Souq al-Hamidiyya
Souq in Aleppo
Church of the Girdle of Our Lady
Place of worship of John the Baptist in Damascus
Crac des Chevaliers
Saladin Castle
Latakia
Dead Cities of Northern Syria Listed below are some favourite attractions to visit in Syria :
Valley of The Tombs
The Valley of The Tombs is an antiquated cemetery where the Palmyrenes entombed their perished. The Palmyrenes were tenants of the antiquated city of Palmyra, managed by the ground-breaking and wonderful ruler Zenobia. Situated on the edges of where the antiquated city once stood, tombs in different phases of conservation are noticeable on the two sides of the valley and are effortlessly investigated by guests. This is really a striking and amazing goal.
Hypogeum of the Three Brothers
A hypogeum is an underground entombment load. The Hypogeum of the Three Brothers is likewise situated in old Palmyra, in the Valley of The Tombs. The tomb goes back to around 100BC and highlights phenomenal fresco canvases – including representations of the three siblings always buried inside, among different ancient rarities.
Souq al-Hamidiyya
Souq al-Hamidiyya is an outside market at the passage of the Old City of Damascus. Guests can discover everything from painstaking work made by local people to mass delivered stock being sold here. The fundamental promenade is fixed with bigger shops while the little, stone rear ways off the sides are loaded with littler interesting shops. The road itself goes back to Roman circumstances, however the majority of the encompassing engineering is from the nineteenth century.
Souq in Aleppo
The Souq in Aleppo, Syria is, maybe, a standout amongst the most curious shopping areas in the majority of the nation. Despite the fact that it’s a flourishing, clamoring commercial center, very little has changed since its initiation in the thirteenth century. The outdoors advertise has held a lot of its unique feel since it’s the place local people still do their looking for everything from basic needs to family unit things. The shop proprietors are exceptionally sincere and are known to welcome Souq guests over for tea. The Souq is a standout amongst other approaches to encounter the “genuine” Syria.
Church of the Girdle of Our Lady
The Church of the Girdle of Our Lady in Homs, Syria is a fascinating spot to for some reasons. One is its name. The other is the story behind its name. In 1953, the patriarch of the congregation declared that a little segment of red material found in the minor little church with the red tile rooftop was really a support worn by The Virgin Mother Mary. The congregation still has an extremely dynamic Orthodox assemblage today.
Place of worship of John the Baptist in Damascus
The Shrine of John the Baptist is another intriguing spot to visit in Syria, because of the sheer legend behind its source. The neighborhood legend says that amid the working of the Umayyad Mosque in the eighth century, a coffin was uncovered. Inside the coffin was John The Baptist’s head – finish with his hair and skin. On the site they manufactured the hallowed place, which is a green arch formed structure today. In spite of the fact that the legitimacy of this story and the individual in the holy place is questioned, the holy place still remains an exceptionally well known goal for sightseers.
Crac des Chevaliers
Crac des Chevaliers is an antiquated mansion on the edges of Homs, Syria. It was built in 1031 along the main course from Antioch to Beirut as a military fortification. Because of its disconnected area somewhere in the range of 700m above ocean level, it was a standout amongst the most watched and all around secured strongholds on the planet. Crac des Chevaliers was never caught by restricting powers and is viewed today as the most all around protected château on the planet.
Saladin Castle
Saladin Castle, situated close Latakia, Syria, is another heavenly case of château engineering. No one knows how old Saladin Castle is, yet its know to exist, without a doubt, before 334BC. This palace is a famous stronghold, highlighting dividers that are five meters thick and a trench about 30 meters encompassing it. Towers, stables, a reservoir and a royal residence with showers are as yet obvious inside the château dividers today.
Latakia
Latakia, Syria is a comprehensive goal for vacationers in Syria. It has all the history and great design as alternate territories of the nation, yet in addition offers a considerable measure of present day enhancements that different locales can’t. Because of its vicinity on the Mediterranean Sea, Latakia is a problem area for shoreline and water sports devotees.
Dead Cities of Northern Syria
The Dead Cities in Northern Syria are old phantom towns. The disseminating of urban areas incorporate more than 600 cases of Byzantine house of worship, homes, structures and landmarks. A huge level of them are to a great degree very much protected and give the feeling that the antiquated occupants just moved away and left everything behind multi day.
Despite being is controversies, Syria still hasn’t been able to escape the beauty that is blessed with. The overwhelming bounty that nature has envisaged Syria is beyond mesmerizing. One wouldn’t want to miss a chance so pristine that would add only the best of experience to their lives. Visiting here is surely going to be a heart warming experience.
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