Kilkenny City Travel Guide

A tour of Kilkenny City, Ireland, is to step back through time.

Stroll down streets laid out during the medieval era, sip tea in an ancient cathedral, and visit pubs that have served drinks through the centuries. Any Kilkenny City sightseeing is steeped in history and local lore, though you can enjoy it all with a dash of modern comfort and civilization.

Kilkenny City tourism often centers on Kilkenny Castle, a massive stone fortress built in 1195. The present castle is an enlargement of and improvement over a previous structure, whose walls protected medieval Kilkenny from raiders. Some of these walls and their towers are still present throughout Kilkenny City. You can tour the castle itself to get a taste of how the nobility lived hundreds of years ago; walk through grand halls with high, arched ceilings, study family portraits, and snap some pictures of traditional suits of armor.

After a long day of exploring the castle and wandering along the streets of Kilkenny City, enjoy a meal in one of the many historic buildings scattered around the downtown. There’s even more history waiting for you to discover tomorrow.

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Fuerteventura Travel Guide

Fuerteventura is the second largest of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago situated in the Atlantic Ocean. This island is famous for stunning beaches, picturesque villages and year-round sunshine.

Just half an hour north of the international airport is Corralejo, one of the island’s largest resort towns and the perfect place from which to explore the Corralejo Dunes National Park.

At the island’s southern end is Morro Jable, a town famed for seafood restaurants and a picturesque lighthouse.

Gorgeous beaches run the length of the Jandia Peninsula, reaching all the way to Costa Calma. For something different, check out the pitch-black sands of Ajuy Beach.

Should you tire of Fuerteventura’s beaches, head inland to explore the island’s amazing volcanic landscapes and villages. Take the winding roads up to Mirador Morro Velosa on Mount Tegu for the best views on the entire island, then visit Puerto del Rosario, the island’s capital.

With it’s long Spanish history, Fuerteventura is also home to many romantic buildings and churches such as the parish church at La Oliva and the town hall in Pajara.

Cotillo is perhaps the most picturesque village on the entire island. Stroll the old harbour, which is still used by fisherman, and admire the original windmills.

In an archipelago acclaimed for beaches, Fuerteventura has been blessed with some of the biggest and most beautiful. Combined with its perfect weather and incredible landscapes, this is the perfect island to relax, recharge and reconnect with nature.

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Manchester Travel Guide

Manchester is a city of firsts. It was the epicenter of the Industrial Revolution, the place where mankind first split the atom, and the birthplace of the modern computer.

The many chapters of Manchester’s story come together in Castlefield. Here you’ll find the remains of a Roman fort, Bridgewater Canal, and some of the mills which once generated incredible wealth for the city. In the background, Beetham Tower is a symbol of a city again on the rise.

Manchester’s crowning glory is its Town Hall, built to rival the great buildings of London. During the Industrial Revolution, Manchester’s merchants went on a spending spree, scouring the world in search of cultural treasures to fill their stately homes. Many of these treasures now reside in the Manchester Art Gallery and the Manchester Museum.

In 1653, the Chetham Library became the country’s first free public library and has been open to all ever since. Two hundred and fifty years later, one of the city’s greatest philanthropists, Enriqueta Rylands, unveiled the John Rylands Library, dedicated to the memory of her textile magnate husband.

Housed in a restored Edwardian pump house is The People’s History Museum, which celebrates those who challenged Britain’s rigid political and class systems. At the world’s oldest surviving railway station, you’ll find The Museum of Science and Industry, while the Imperial War Museum North reminds us of the human cost of warfare.

Explore the city’s musical heritage in the Northern Quarter, and check out Canal Street, which perfectly encapsulates the Mancunian ideals of tolerance and good times. Learn more about the city’s footballing history at the National Football Museum, or time your visit for a match at Old Trafford.

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Mykonos Travel Guide

History, legend, and beauty are what Mykonos, Greece, is all about. Even its name is drawn from myth: Mykon, the first ruler of Mykonos, was purportedly the son of Apollo.

You don’t need to be fully versed in Greek myths to enjoy your trip, but before you begin your Mykonos tour, get to know some of the island’s local legends. In the old stories, Mykonos hosted a battle between Zeus and the giant Titans. The large rocks that are scattered over the island are said to be the remains of the Titans, which were left where they fell.

You won’t spend your all of your Mykonos sightseeing staring at rocks, though. Why not learn more about the local history in Mykonos Town, the largest community on the island? For instance, its windmills were built in the 16th century by the Venetians, who ruled the island until the 18th century.

The windmills are the place to visit for outstanding views of the harbor and another dose of local lore.
Much of Mykonos Town is built in the medieval Venetian style; it is a maze of small lanes and whitewashed buildings. This community has been a Mykonos tourism hot spot since the 1950s thanks to its variety of restaurants and nightclubs, and for good reason. Eating, dancing, and ocean sunsets—what better combination could you ask for?

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Killarney Travel Guide

The small town of Killarney is tucked at the base of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s largest mountain range. This charming community has been a popular spot for European visitors since the 1800s, thanks in part to its striking surrounding woodland and temperate climate. Killarney’s tourism has been a major boost for its economy; aside from Dublin, there are more hotel beds in Killarney than in any other Irish community.

Start your Killarney tour with a walk down High Street or College Street, where you can try out some authentic Irish fare. Grab a drink in one of the town’s many pubs, or stop in at a café if you want to forgo the alcohol. The town continues to hum along even after the sun goes down; if you’re a night owl, you’ll love spending the later hours checking out eateries, cafes, and nightclubs.

Any Killarney sightseeing should include Killarney National Park, which is located just two miles from the town. This gorgeous landscape is home to wildlife and a number of Killarney’s famed tourist attractions. Wander through some 24,000 acres of lakes and mountains, which are home to red deer, ospreys, and even Arctic char.

Ready to be impressed? Killarney National Park also houses Ross Castle, a genuine medieval tower perched on the shores of Lough Leane. Looking for something a little less medieval? Tour Muckross House, a 65-room mansion that once hosted Queen Victoria. Before you head back to town, grab a picture on the Old Weir Bridge. How old is it? No one is entirely sure, but historians think it may have been constructed in the 1500s. Like Killarney itself, the bridge remains an endearing place to visit.

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Ukraine Sights and Attractions

Ukraine top 100 best sights and attractions - Full-HD Presentation.

 

What to see in Ukraine? Why travel to Ukraine? Pictures of top sights and attractions of West, East and South Ukraine with short description.

 

Explore Kiev with Ukraine Kiev Tours at ukraine-kiev-tour.com 

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Unique Iceland: What to do in Reykjavik?

Unique Iceland - A holiday destination of extremes. 

An entertaining and informative documentary about Reykjavík, its surrounding countryside and the natural gems of Iceland.

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Lanzarote Travel Guide

Lanzarote is the easternmost island of the Spanish archipelago known as the Canary Islands. Lanzarote was created by volcanic forces millions of years ago and its people have embraced the beauty of its stunning landscape in unique and creative ways.

Over the generations, many myths have abounded about the Canary Islands. Its original inhabitants believed the volcanic mountains to be the home of the gods, while early scholars believed the area to be the uppermost mountains of the Lost City of Atlantis.

With its spectacular landscapes, organic architecture and striking beaches, Lanzarote is perhaps the most magical of all the Canary Islands.

Manrique believed that no building on the island should be higher than a palm tree, and his passion for the local environment meant that most of the villages of Lanzarote have maintained much of their authentic flavour.

Head to Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote’s main tourist town and enjoy views across the harbour to the volcanic mountains of Papagayo. Guided by the visionary hand of César Manrique, Lanzarote learned many years ago to embrace the unique gifts bestowed on it by Mother Nature. This island understands the true nature of beauty and as you watch the sun setting over this magnificent island, so will you.

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Belfast Travel Guide

Belfast, located on the northeast coast of Ireland, is an eclectic mixture of history and modernity. Scattered throughout the countryside you’ll find Iron Age forts, medieval castles, and more modern construction dating to the 20th century. Belfast got on the fast track to modernizing in the 19th century, when it became known as a shipbuilding mecca. Among the famous vessels built at Belfast through the decades are the RMS Titanic and its sister ships, Olympic and Britannic.

A great deal of Belfast’s modern identity stems from over three decades of political and religious strife. These issues have influenced much of the city’s public art, as a great number of murals and statues depict people and events from those times. A walk around this easily accessible city is a walk through that troubled past.

You’ll probably be hungry after exploring so much of the city’s history on your Belfast tour, so swing on down to one of the local pubs to drink a pint and share a meal with some of the locals. Just walk down the street and head into what venue catches your eye; the city is easily navigable on foot, and you never know what sort of delightful gallery, park, or restaurant you’re going to find just around the bend.

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Bantry House Travel Guide

If you’re in Ireland during the summer and are looking for a place to spend a quiet, relaxing afternoon, take a tour of Bantry House. This extraordinary estate is closed during the winter, so if you’re planning to visit, make sure you plan your trip for the spring or summer.

Bantry House perches over Bantry Bay in County Cork, Ireland. This onetime small home grew exponentially after Richard White purchased the land in 1765; through his careful expansion, the estate eventually surpassed 80,000 acres. It remained in the White family throughout its colorful history, including a five-year stint as a hospital during the Irish Civil War, and today it has been converted into a charming bed and breakfast and tea room.

Bantry House sightseeing includes a trip through some of the estate’s gardens. Explore terraces, rows of shrubs, and hedges, many of which overlook Bantry Bay. A tour of Bantry House’s interior is much like wandering into a museum, as the house is loaded with artwork, antiques, and other decorations. Many of these items date back to Viscount Berehaven, who traveled extensively through Europe with his wife during the 1820s and 1830s. Bantry House isn’t all antiques and art, though; on Fridays, you can peruse local produce and potential souvenirs at the Bantry Market.

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Nice Travel Guide

When you plan a trip to Nice, France, you’re in good company: This city has been a tourist destination since at least the 18th century. The European aristocracy often spent their winters in the pleasant climate, with a sunset walk on the shoreline being the highlight of each day.

You can walk in their footsteps—literally—with a stroll down the Promenade des Anglais, which roughly translates to Walkway of the English. On a tour of Nice, you’ll enjoy the mixture of French and Italian culture that permeates the city’s architecture, public art, and yes, the food. Bon appetit!

The residents of Nice love the outdoors, and you will, too, as you explore the Place Massena—the city’s main square, where you can enjoy a snack at a café or do some shopping in its many boutiques. Any Nice sightseeing requires exploration of one of the many open-air markets, where you can pick up fresh produce, local artwork, and French pastries that will leave you wondering why you waited so long to visit.

Cap a perfect day in Nice with a dip in the ocean and a walk along the seashore, watching the sun disappear into the sea.

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Venice Travel Guide

Rising from the waters of Venice Lagoon is the Italian city of Venice, a city like no other. Begin your visit in the central district of San Marco, and walk upon one of the world’s great squares, St Mark’s Square. The square is surrounded by some of the city’s finest jewels such as St Mark’s Basilica, St Mark’s Campanile and Doge’s Palace.

Just outside stand the Columns of San Marco and San Teodoro. From here, journey along one of the world’s great aquatic thoroughfares, The Grand Canal. Glide past elegant palazzos; once the homes of wealthy merchants, today many of these palaces house important museums and galleries.

Known as The City Of Bridges, Venice has hundreds to explore. The Accademia Bridge links the San Marco district to the Accademia Gallery, and offers some of the Grand Canal’s finest views. The oldest of the Grand Canal’s four crossings is the Rialto Bridge, which today still serves as the gateway to the Rialto Markets. The most famous of all is the Bridge of Sighs, which connects Doge’s Palace to the historic prison.

Venice is a city to get lost in, so put away your map and let her surprise you. Discover waterfront promenades of The Zattere and the sleepy canals and spacious piazzas of Castello. On the tiny island of Murano, glassmakers have been creating works of incredible delicacy and color for over 700 years. Further across the lagoon, the island of Burano is famed for its brightly colored houses and exquisite lace.

Venice has shone her light into the far corners of the world for over one and a half thousand years. Just remember, this city smiles upon those who linger. So stay for a few nights, or stay for a month, and savor every moment she has to offer.

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Lanzarote Vacation Travel Guide

Lanzarote is the easternmost island of the Spanish archipelago known as the Canary Islands. Lanzarote was created by volcanic forces millions of years ago and its people have embraced the beauty of its stunning landscape in unique and creative ways.

Over the generations, many myths have abounded about the Canary Islands. Its original inhabitants believed the volcanic mountains to be the home of the gods, while early scholars believed the area to be the uppermost mountains of the Lost City of Atlantis.

With its spectacular landscapes, organic architecture and striking beaches, Lanzarote is perhaps the most magical of all the Canary Islands.

Manrique believed that no building on the island should be higher than a palm tree, and his passion for the local environment meant that most of the villages of Lanzarote have maintained much of their authentic flavour.

Head to Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote’s main tourist town and enjoy views across the harbour to the volcanic mountains of Papagayo. Guided by the visionary hand of César Manrique, Lanzarote learned many years ago to embrace the unique gifts bestowed on it by Mother Nature. This island understands the true nature of beauty and as you watch the sun setting over this magnificent island, so will you.

Europe

Liverpool Vacation Travel Guide

Rising from the coastal plains of West Lancashire, Liverpool’s fortunes have been tied to the ocean for over 800 years. Once England’s gateway to the world, the enormous wealth that trade brought into the city was ploughed back into the city’s skyline. 

In the heart of Liverpool, by the banks of the city’s beloved river, is Pier Head. Wander across this floating pier, where the excitement and teary farewells of Transatlantic steamship passengers once filled the air. Behind Pier Head, rises Liverpool’s crown, The Three Graces. These three buildings stand as a testament to both Liverpool’s former trading might, and the city’s eternal love of beauty. 

Upriver from Pier Head, is the Albert Docks. Once packed with goods such as brandy, tea, ivory and tobacco, today the docks are the storehouses of many of the city’s historic treasures. 

Explore Liverpool’s oceangoing past, from the ages of sail, to Titanic stories of loss and sacrifice at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Next door, the acclaimed International Slavery Museum is a sobering reminder that the bricks of Liverpool were mortared with the blood and sweat of Africa. The UK’s premier art intuition, the Tate, exhibits works from the national collection here at its northern home by the Mersey. 

Climb aboard the Yellow Submarine and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Fab Four across the dock at The Beatles Story. Continue your Magical Mystery Tour down the stairs at 10 Matthew Street. In the early 1960s, The Beatles performed at Cavern Club almost 300 times. 

Liverpool is England’s most successful footballing city. At Anfield Road Stadium, stand before the statue of the Liverpool manager who uttered the immortal words, “Football is not a matter of life or death,…it’s far, far more important than that.”

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Florence Vacation Travel Guide

Florence, Italy, is a bustling Mediterranean city loaded with delicious Italian food and thousands of years of recorded history.

Florence began 59 B.C., when Julius Caesar’s former soldiers settled along the Arno River. The city, initially called Florentia, grew up around these settlements. Today, the old Roman parts of the city are long gone, but the Piazza della Repubblica features a towering monument—the Column of Abundance—where the ancient Roman main streets met. 

Explore some additional history at the Centro Storico, the historic center of the city. This area features a number of medieval buildings, like the breathtaking Florence Cathedral. Centro Storico is also where you can meet Il Porcellino, a bronze boar statue that is something of a mascot for Florence. Put a coin in his mouth for good luck—it can’t hurt, right? 

Continue your Florence tour by taking in some of the world’s most stunning religious art, much of it created under the Medici family in the 15th and 16th centuries. You’ll find statues in parks and fountains, as well as outside and inside buildings. Stop by the Uffizi Gallery, which spans a full city block, and view paintings by great artists such as Sandro Botticelli. You’ll also want to visit the Gallery of The Academy to see some of Michelangelo’s seminal work.

On the south side of the Arno River is Palazzo Pitti, one of the Medici family’s residences during the Renaissance. It’s now a large set of galleries, where you can view some of the Medici heirlooms and some of their prized artwork, including pieces by Raphael and Correggio.

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Moscow Vacation Travel Guide

Your trip to Moscow, Russia is bound to be a special one. From the multicolored spires of St. Basil’s Cathedral to the sturdy red walls of the Kremlin, there is much to see and do in this stunning city.

Named after the Moskva River—which flows through the city—Moscow has long been at the forefront of the creative world. Tour Moscow to follow in the footsteps of Tolstoy and Chekhov, among others, and join in the sense of pride Russia feels for its literary tradition. Moscow has named a number of its parks and open spaces after its poets and authors, so take a break at the fountain in Pushkin Square, or rest beneath the leafy trees in Gorky Park. When you’ve gotten your fill of literary splendor, head to the Memorial Museum of Cosmonauts, where you can learn about the Soviet Union’s efforts to reach the stars and the epic space race that lasted from 1955 to 1972.

Moscow is a city of creativity and innovation, but is also very much aware of its own history; as such, a haunting part of any Moscow sightseeing is a visit to the Fallen Monument Park. After the fall of the Soviet Union, countless statues and monuments were removed from their pedestals and moved to this park. Over the years, more modern artwork and sculptures have been added, turning the park into a strange, yet peaceful graveyard of former icons.

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Berlin Vacation Travel Guide

The first documentation of Berlin appears in the 13th century, and it has a long history of importance—it’s been the capital of the Margraviate of Brandenburg and the Kingdom of Prussia, among others. The lengthy history encompassing the city often manifests in its eclectic collection of architecture, which you should certainly include on your Berlin tour.

From the towering classical lines of Charlottenburg Palace, built for the Hohenzollern family in the 17th century, to the sleek mirrored sides of the Bahn Tower, you’re bound to find plenty to look at in the city’s downtown area. Fancy a real German lager? Stop by Prater Garten for a brew—built in 1837, it’s one of the handful of buildings that has survived both World Wars. You can sit outside and responsibly enjoy your drink, or, if the weather turns on you, head inside to enjoy a hearty German meal. 

Ready to check out the rest of the city? You’re in luck. Berlin sightseeing is easy: Though the sprawling city has excellent public transit, Berlin is geared toward pedestrians, and you can access much of the city center on food or by bicycle. For a truly extraordinary experience, visit Museum Island, located in the Spree River. It features five museums, among them the Altes, completed in 1830 and devoted to antiquities. The newest structure on the premises, built in 1930, is the Pergamon Museum. Here you can explore the art of numerous cultures, or wander through a replica of the Ishtar Gate. 

Are you one of those people who only starts to wake up after the sun goes down? If you’re looking for a thriving nightlife, Berlin is the place to go. When the sun sets on the city, the party really begins, and you can find any number of clubs where you can dance until long after the sun comes up. 

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Copenhagen Vacation Travel Guide

Welcome to Copenhagen, Denmark! This stunning place is also called “The City of Spires,” and after arriving here, you’ll see why.

A tour of Copenhagen reveals cobblestone streets, beautiful canals, and many 16th and 17th-century buildings crowned by the aforementioned spires. Don’t let the archaic exterior of these buildings fool you; they house very modern restaurants, theaters, and shops, and you can easily spend days sampling seafood and coffees at the various eateries. 

One of Copenhagen’s most beloved attractions is Tivoli Gardens, a theme park that dates back to 1843. Watch a pantomime, ride one of the oldest roller coasters, or just enjoy a trip in a dragon boat. After a few hours at Tivoli Gardens, continue your Copenhagen sightseeing in the city proper. Copenhagen is like something out of a fairy tale, full of multicolored houses and boats that tie up at Copenhagen’s wharves. 

Next, rent a bike. With almost 250 miles of bicycle lanes, getting around two wheels is a healthy, athletic way to get to know the city. Ride your bike to Nyhavn, a waterfront district that dates back to the 17th century. This is the spot to make friends at the local pubs, or to simply sit and watch the boats go back and forth over the waters of the Oresund. Nyhavn is also home to “The Little Mermaid,” a statue fashioned after the titular character in the Hans Christian Andersen tale. Make sure you bring your camera, as the mermaid is a popular place for a photo op. 

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Rome Vacation Travel Guide

As legend has it, Rome, Italy, was founded by the twin brothers, Romulus and Remus, in 700 B.C. The former Caput Mundi, or Capital of the World, sits beneath Palatine Hill, where the ruins of its original incarnation are open for exploration.

No Rome tour is complete without stopping by the remains of the Temple of Saturn and Arch of Septimus, both located in the Roman Forum. Get in touch with your inner gladiator and stop by the Colosseum, a relic of Roman bloodsports and perhaps the most recognizable element of the city.

Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure you’ll return to Rome one day; don’t toss in two coins unless you’re ready to fall in love with a Roman. Continue your Rome sightseeing in St. Peter’s Square, home of St. Peter’s Basilica. The world’s largest church, designed by Michelangelo, is both a remarkable structure and a tribute to faith. You can look down from the famous dome to the Holy Square, which is usually filled with the faithful looking to obtain a blessing from the Pope.

After this, it’s just a few steps to restaurants filled with Italian food. Forget coming back to Rome – you’ll never want to leave.
 

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Vienna Vacation Travel Guide

On your next trip to Austria, pay a visit to its capital city of Vienna. During the late 19th and early 20th century, this city became a cultural epicenter of Europe, contributing art, philosophy, and culture on its way to becoming one of the world’s great cities.

During your Vienna sightseeing, you can drink coffee in the same cafes as Einstein and Freud, or wander down the streets that inspired Beethoven. Tour galleries devoted to some of the most magnificent artwork in all of Europe, then walk along the Ringstrasse. Also called “Ring Road,” this downtown boulevard home to private residences, palaces, and other exquisite examples of architecture for you to marvel at. 

Much of Vienna tourism is centered in its cafes. This is not just because its residents love strong coffee—though they do—but because Viennese social life largely grows out of its coffee houses. Locals will spend hours at their favorite cafes, reading the paper, speaking to friends, working on projects, or listening to music in the evenings. Sit at a table and watch the people of Vienna stroll by, or enjoy a sachertorte, or chocolate cake, while catching up on your latest novel. It’s impossible to visit this city and not be inspired.

Vienna has long been called The City of Music. Find out why at the Vienna State Opera; a backstage tour will show you all the ins and outs of this majestic place, as well as give you a glimpse of why it has been at the forefront of entertainment since its construction in the 1800s. Afterward, head a few blocks south to the Volksgarten, or people’s garden. Stroll through its pathways and sniff the sweet fragrance of its hundreds of roses. What better way to end a day in one of the world’s most beautiful cities?

 

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