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Top 10 Edinburgh, Scotland Tourist Attractions

November 25, 2016 by candice

1: Edinburgh Castle

Resting majestically on Castle Rock, this remarkable eminence dates back to the 12th century. This compound is packed with things to see, from the Regimental and National War Museums, to the Mons Meg, a massive cannon acquired in the 15th century, to the Crown Jewels, which are the oldest in the British Isles. Edinburgh Castle is one terminus of the Royal Mile and is the gateway to the rest of the treasures in this section of the city.

Website: www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk

2: National Museum of Scotland

Scottish antiques are on parade here after two museums, the Royal Scottish Museum and the National Museum of Scottish Antiquities, combined to make the National Museum of Scotland. Medieval artifacts are plentiful, but the curiosities are the real draw. A suit worn by Elton John, as well as a crude predecessor to the guillotine known as the Scottish Maiden, and the stuffed remains of Dolly the sheep, the first successful cloned mammal, are on display, providing an offbeat counterpoint to the historical treasures that occupy the rest of the museum.

Website: www.nms.ac.uk

3: Royal Mile

Old Town is where you’ll find the Royal Mile, although that name for it didn’t catch on until the 20th century. Starting at Edinburgh Castle and its volcanic rock bed, the Royal Mile runs down to Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarchy, and passes many notable sites along the way. Adults can enjoy the Scotch Whiskey Experience, and families can stop through the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions and partake in its wondrous offerings. Stop by the Heart of Midlothian, a heartshaped mosaic where the old prison used to be, where locals still occasionally spit on its center.

Website: /www.royal-mile.com

4: Royal Botanic Garden

Doubling as tourist attraction and science center, the Royal Botanic Garden began as a garden for growing medicinal herbs and plants. Nowadays it houses thousands of living plant specimens, and millions of preserved specimens that reside in the herbarium. The garden is free to enter, and people enjoy walking through the many examples of flora from climates all over the world. To get into the glasshouses costs a small fee, but the tropical inhabitants are well worth the price.

Website: www.rbge.org.uk

5: Royal Yacht Britannia

This elegant ship served Queen Elizabeth II for 43 years before retiring to its current location. Now it is an exhibit, open to the public so that they can experience its splendor. The history aboard this ship is tangible. It carried the Queen, as well as American president Dwight D. Eisenhower, down the St. Lawrence Seaway when it first opened in 1954, and was the honeymoon vessel of Prince Charles and Diana.

Website: www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

6: Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

On the Castle side of the Royal Mile, you’ll find this art and science museum, boasting six floors of interactive handson exhibits. Holograms, kaleidoscopes and optical illusions await to challenge your perceptions about the world around you. The Camera Obscura resides on the top floor, projecting realtime images of Edinburgh onto a viewing table that stuns viewers with its fascinating simplicity. Once you’ve seen all six floors, the Observatory at the top provides free telescopes for visitors to take in breathtaking panoramas of Old Town, New Town and Edinburgh Castle.

Website: www.camera-obscura.co.uk

7: Edinburgh Zoo

The logo for the Edinburgh Zoo is a king penguin joyfully sliding on its belly. This choice of logo has special meaning, because in 1914 the zoo received three kings penguins from a South Atlantic expedition. In 1919, a king penguin hatched in captivity, making this the first zoo in the world to keep and breed penguins. Catch the daily penguin parade, a tradition started by accident when several birds escaped from their pool, but which enjoys a huge amount of popularity today.

Website: www.edinburghzoo.org.uk

8: Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey

The Holyrood Abbey was founded in 1128 by King David I as tribute to the holy miracle he is said to have experienced in the forest, when a cross appeared and startled a charging stag, thus saving his life. Today, all that remains of the Abbey are ruins, but they are exquisite. Next to the Abbey lies the Holyrood Palace, the official Edinburgh dwelling of the British monarchy. The chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots are still intact, including “the most famous room in Scotland,” her bedchamber, as well as the Outer Chamber where she witnessed her husband murder her Italian secretary.

Website: www.royalcollection.org.uk

9: St. Giles Cathedral

This cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is instantly recognizable by its majestic crown spire. The building still functions as a church, with a local congregation that attends service every week. The vaulted ceilings of the interior create the feeling of vast space, and they’re beautiful to look at besides. The stained glass windows were initially thought to be ostentatious, but were forgiven for the fact that they portray biblical stories and weren’t simply ornamental.

Website: www.stgilescathedral.org.uk

10: Our Dynamic Earth

Situated between the Parliament building and Arthur’s Seat, this science center is the crown jewel in a plan to revitalize the area around it. Opened in 1999, in time for the turn of the millenium, it features explosive exhibits detailing the Earth’s history, its climates, its inner workings and everything in between. Explore the depths of the ocean or learn how volcanoes work. Boasting displays in 3D as well as 4D, visitors can interact with dinosaurs, take a jaunt through a tropical rainforest, or watch the Northern Lights from the tip of an iceberg.

Website: www.dynamicearth.co.uk

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Top 10 Stockholm, Sweden Tourist Attractions

November 25, 2016 by candice

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Stockholm, Sweden is heralded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its mix of old world charm and modern attractions. This picturesque city is a mix of the fourteen islands connected by some of the most scenic bridges overlooking the Baltic Sea. This cosmopolitan city will captivate you with the classic architecture and modern structures. Visit Stockholm, the largest Scandinavian city, here are the 10 best attractions you can visit.

1: Vasa Museum

This Maritime museum displays a fully intact 17th century ship which has been salvaged. Enjoy the original glory of the ship while visiting the exhibits, the shops, and the restaurant. Step through the hallowed corridors that has been turned into galleries that contains exhibits related to the greatest 17th century archaeological finds of the ships. It also has four other museum ships harbored nearby.

Website: www.vasamuseet.se

2: The Royal Palace (Kungliga slottet)

Take a day trip at the The Royal Palace declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ten royal palaces are steeped with Swedish history filled with architecture, art, and an interior design that dates back to four centuries. The royal chapels, museums, stables, and exhibitions are a sight to behold. Stroll through the well manicured gardens and appreciate why this Royal Palace stands regal and is a unique heritage for the Swedish citizens.

Website: www.kungahuset.se

3: The Old Town (Gamla Stan)

When you visit Stockholm, go to the Gamla Stan or Old Town, which is a favorite among the tourists. The Stortorget, or the main square was set up in the 1300s, the baroque style old palace stands proud as it welcomes its visitors. Today, it is the melting pot of old meets new as cafes, restaurants, studios, tourist shops, museums, and galleries can be found here. Don’t miss the changing of the guards at the Royal Palace. Eat at the World Guinness book of records Den Gyldene Freden as one that serves authentic Swedish dishes.

Website: www.old-town-stockholm.com

4: Moderna Museet – The Museum of Modern Art

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Moderna Museet or the Museum of Modern Art when they visit Stockholm. The museum is located at the Skeppsholmen island. It houses Swedish art, and some modern and international art pieces. Admire the works of Picasso, Dali, Duchamp, and Matisse. Temporary art exhibitions are also on display to attract younger audiences with art installations. Visit the restaurant touted to give you a gastronomic experience.

Website: www.modernamuseet.se

5: Stockholm City Hall

The Stockholm City Hall or Stadshuset is a Romanesque revival architecture that has a Romantic flavor. The dark red bricks stand in its glory, typical of the structures used in monasteries and churches. Visit the halls, galleries, and the park that is adorned with several sculptures. This is known as the venue of the famous Nobel Peace Prize banquet, making it one of the greatest tourist attractions.

Website: www.international.stockholm.se

6: Fotografiska

The images of the past and present can be viewed at Fotografiska. The Swedish Museum of Photography houses, many contemporary photography exhibition places, galleries, cafes, bistros, and conference halls. This international meeting place has four major exhibitions per year. View the most controversial photographs of all time as you visit Stockholm.

Website: www.fotografiska.eu

7: Skansen Open-Air Museum

Skansen Open-Air Museum is the first of its kind and was founded in 1891. Sweep through five centuries of Swedish history while regaling the awe of the lives of long past. Know how people lived, the famous characters in history, the way they dress, and what their livelihood looks like. Some of the historically known homes and farmsteads can also be seen. Experience the Swedish tradition of Midsummer, Walpurgis Night, and Lucia at the Skansen.

Website: www.skansen.se

8: Drottningholm Palace

As you visit Stockholm, don’t miss the Drottningholm Palace, which is the private residence of the Swedish royal family that was built in the 1600s. Experience the whole ensemble of the theatre, castle, church, Chinese Pavilion as it sweeps through the landscape. The garden is famous for tourists as it represents the different periods of the palace. Visit the Baroque with its many statues and thick tree avenues. The English has ponds, canals, and walkways that complete the vista.

Website: www.kungahuset.se

9: Boat Sightseeing

Stockholm has 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. Take the opportunity to visit every island through Boat Sightseeing at Stromma. Stay aboard in the boat, and hop on, or hop off as you please. You can either choose the Royal Canal Tour, Historical Canal Tour, or explore Stockholm under the bridges. This is one of the ways in which you can experience the beautiful city.

Website: www.stromma.se

10: Royal Djurgården

Finally, do not miss the Djurgården or the Royal Game Park as you visit Stockholm. This is the home of historical monuments, buildings, museums, galleries, and yacht harbors. This cultural center attracts almost five million visitors. The place has a lot of footpaths and waterfront promenades, so that historic buildings and museums can be accessed through the walkways. Use the old-fashioned trams for a more romantic tour of the place.

Website: www.visitsweden.com

Top 10 Zagreb, Croatia Tourist Attractions

November 25, 2016 by candice

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, has a lot to offer. While you won’t find the beaches or the Adriatic Sea, you will find culture, history, restaurants, shopping, bars, and more. The city has three main sections; the Upper Town is a thousand years old and has the Presidential Palace and St. Mark’s Church. Lower Town dates to the 19th century and features theatres, restaurants, shops, and more and New Zagreb was constructed following WWII and is less popular among visitors. You will actually find more museums in Zagreb per square foot compared to any other place in the world, making it hard to pick. These top attractions are ideal if you only have a short amount of time in the city.

1: Zagreb Cathedral

Although most people refer to it as Zagreb Cathedral in English, the full name of this cathedral is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, but it used to be called St. Stephen’s Cathedral. This cathedral features typical Gothic architecture and has two identical spires which are seen from around the city. The original cathedral was destroyed during the 13th century from the Tartar attack, leaving the current cathedral to be built during the latter part of the same century. It was also renovated following the 1880 earthquake, but it still has its medieval design.

2: Dolac Market

Dolac Market is an incredibly colorful open air market that features stands where you can buy a wide range of items. On the weekends, you will find people from around Zagreb visiting the market to get fresh products and groceries. You can buy seasonal products as well as hand-made souvenirs, and bargain for your items. The market is conveniently located close to Ban Jelacic Square, which is the main city square of the city. While the best-known part of the market is open-air, there is also a covered portion below where you will find fishmongers, butchers, and more.

3: Mirogoj Cemetery

Mirogoj Cemetery or Monumental Cemetery Mirogoj dates back to 1876 and it was made to replace eight cemeteries that were currently in use. The construction of the arcades, as well as their church, central portals, and cupolas, began in 1879. The arcades were completed in 1917 and the central portion in 1929, giving the cemetery a Neo-Renaissance style featuring balance and clear perspectives. Interestingly enough, all religions have their symbols represented equally within the cemetery.

4: St. Mark’s Church

St. Mark’s Church is an emblem in Zagreb, dating back to the 13th century. The roof is made up of colorful tiles and was built in 1880. You can find the Zagreb emblem on the right side and the coat of arms from medieval times for Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia on the left. There are 15 figures within the Gothic portal which was created during the 14th century. Inside, you will see various sculptures, but you can only enter the church during Mass and the anteroom during opening hours. You should also try to watch the guard-changing ceremony each Saturday and Sunday in the summer.

5: Maksimir Park

Maksimir Park is the perfect place to spend your afternoon or morning, whether you are alone, with family, your partner, or your pet. This 18 hectare park is an escape from the city, surrounded by nature without any car engines within earshot. The forest area first opened in 1794 to the public, and at the time, it was the only park of its type in this area of Europe. During your trip to Maksimir Park, be sure to stop by the City Zoo as this is conveniently located within the park. You will find five lakes spread throughout the park, in addition to tree-lined avenues, a mock Swiss chalet, and more.

Website: www.park-maksimir.hr

6: The Tower Of Lotrscak (Lotrščak Tower)

This tower was built during the middle 13th century as a means of protecting the southern gate of the city. Climbing the tower is one of the best ways to get a gorgeous 360 degree panoramic view of Zagreb. At noon every day, you will hear a cannon being fired from this tower. This tradition has been taking place for a hundred years and commemorates a time during the middle of the 15th century when the cannon fired at noon at the Turks. Legend says that the cannon accidentally hit a rooster, blowing it up and the demoralized Turks left.

7: Mimara Museum

The Mimara Museum hosts the largest collection of historical art in Zagreb. The contents of the museum include archaeological finds, statues, and paintings which are organized both thematically and chronologically. Unfortunately, there is not much explanation in English at this museum donated by Ante Topic Mimara. In addition to the permanent exhibits that include Gothic works to oriental carpets, there are also temporary exhibits related to art or archaeology.

Website: www.mimara.hr

8: Jarun Lake

Although Jarun Lake is most popular during the summer, this southern Zagreb Lake is popular year round. A section of the lake is set apart for boating competitions, but you can still swim in a large area of it. When you enter the area, head right if you want to go windsurfing or enjoy the pebble beach at Veliko Jezero or left for pedal-boat or canoe rental or swimming at Malo Jezero.

9: Mount Medvednica

Mount Medvednica translates to Bear Mountain in English and is the perfect place to go hiking, camping, or biking or to enjoy scenic natural beauty. The highest peak in the area is Sljeme, which measures 3396 feet high. There is also the Medvedgrad Fortress in the park, which dates back to the 13th century. You can also find the Veternica cave and skiing in the winter.

Website: www.lonelyplanet.com

10: Archaeological Museum

Zagreb’s Archaeological Museum has permanent collections that range from Prehistoric to Numismatic to Egyptian to Antiquities. The Numismatic Collection alone has nearly 280,000 items and the entire museum has more than 450,000 artifacts. The museum started as the National Museum in 1846 before 1866 when it became the “State Institute of Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia.” When the umbrella museum dissolved in 1939, the museum was left as the Archaeological Museum.

Website: www.amz.hr

Top 10 Dubrovnik, Croatia Tourist Attractions

November 25, 2016 by candice

1: The City Walls

Dubrovnik is a city of rich history, and all it takes is a trip to the City Walls to see it for yourself. These barricades have been standing, intact, since the 12th century. No enemy army was ever able to penetrate them, even during the eight sieges visited upon the city since the 9th century. The walls even sustained the earthquake of 1667, to which so many other buildings and structures in the city fell prey. Over the years, Dubrovnik developed a reputation for being “unconquerable”, thanks to the fortitude of the City Walls.

Website: www.croatiatraveller.com

2: Franciscan Monastery

This monastery was built in 1317. Like so many other buildings in the city, it was largely rebuilt after the 1667 earthquake, although many original elements still remain. Marvel at the bell tower and the gorgeous stone architecture. Enjoy a turn through the vibrant courtyard. Afterward, visit the Pharmacy, which has been continuously operational since the monastery’s foundation and displays ancient tools and instruments on its shelves.

Website: www.dubrovnikcity.com

3: The Stradun (Placa Street)

Don’t just stop at the City Walls; dive into Dubrovnik’s Old Town on this famed pedestrian walkway. The esplanade is approximately 984 ft (300m) in length and features many of Dubrovnik’s most historic sites. It is bookended by bell towers, 15thcentury water fountains, and the eastern and western gates into the walled city. Every February, the procession for the Feast of St. Blaise traverses the Stradun. To walk down Stradun is to walk alongside centuries of history, a history that you can feel with every step.

Website: www.dubrovnikcity.com

4: The Sponza Palace (Palača Sponza)

Built in the 16th century, the Sponza Palace has been, at varying points in its history, a treasury, a customs office, a bank, a mint, and a school. It was one of the buildings that endured the earthquake of 1667, which was especially good news since it was such a pivotal center of affairs of state. It is now home to the city archives, and the front square hosts the opening ceremony of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival every year.

Website: www.dubrovnikcity.com

5: Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin

The first cathedral on this site was built in the 6th century, and many other cathedrals came and went before the one that stands today. Also known as Dubrovnik Cathedral, its alternate name likely comes from the gorgeous 16th century painting of The Assumption that hangs above the altar. It stands next to the Cathedral Treasury which possesses, among a long list of relics, the arm, leg and skull of St. Blaise, as well as a fragment of the True Cross.

Website: www.sacred-destinations.com

6: The Church of St. Blaise

St. Blaise is the patron saint of Dubrovnik, because, according to legend, he warned the town of a forthcoming surprise attack by the Venetian ships that had been peacefully harboring in the bay. Thanks to this advance warning, Dubrovnik was able to fortify itself. The Venetians, seeing that their efforts had been thwarted, sailed back home. Ever since, St. Blaise has been hailed as the city’s protector, and this church was built in his honor. The original church was constructed in the 14th century, but was destroyed first by a fire and then by an earthquake. Its current iteration was finished in 1714.

Website: www.dubrovnikcity.com

7: Dubrovnik Cable Car

There is nothing like a ride in a cable car, and Dubrovnik takes this experience to the next level. This cable car covers almost a halfmile (778m) in under 4 minutes, and the views afforded at the top are breathtaking. From atop Mount Srdj, all of Dubrovnik is visible below, with the cerulean blue of the Adriatic sea twinkling inthe sunlight beyond. While at the top, visit the Imperial Fortress; most recently the front line of the socalled Homeland War of 1991, it is now home to the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence.

Website: www.dubrovnikcablecar.com

8: Island of Lokrum

Once the site of a Benedictine abbey and monastery, Lokrum is now a popular tourist destination. In the time of the Benedictines, this island was used to cultivate all manner of exotic plant life, many of which still exist in the island’s famed botanical gardens. Archduke Maximilian Ferdinand of Habsburg built a mansion on the island in the 19th century, and one of his remaining legacies here are the peacocks he brought in from the Canary Islands.

Website: www.lokrum.hr/en

9: Rector’s Palace

Until the fall of the Dubrovnik Republic in 1808, this palace housed the Rector, whose official duties included the daily ritual of accepting the keys to the city gates in the evening and returning them in the morning. The Palace was also the seat of the Small Council, whom the Rector appointed. While the Palace had the typical halls for receptions and dances, it also had an armoury, a gunpowder warehouse, and a dungeon. The gunpowder warehouse proved to be problematic when the palace was damaged by explosions in 1435 and 1463. After the earthquake in 1667, the repairs to the Palace made it into its current architectural blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Website: www.dubrovnikcity.com

10: Pile Gate

The wooden drawbridge to this gate used to be raised every evening, and its keys handed to the Rector in an elaborate ceremony, which was repeated every morning when the Rector returned the keys. That ceremony may have ended with the fall of the Dubrovnik Republic, but the stately gate remains. St. Blaise, the patron saint of the city, looks down upon the passersby filing into the old city. The outside gate leads to a smaller inner gate, which leads onto the Stradun and all the marvels of Old Dubrovnik.

Website: www.viator.com

Top 10 Zermatt, Switzerland Tourist Attractions

November 7, 2016 by candice

1: Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis

In order to truly appreciate the wonder that is the Matterhorn, it helps to learn about the people who first settled here and attempted to summit the mighty peak. The Matterhorn Museum leads patrons underground to a stateoftheart retelling of the history of the area and the people, including the initial summit attempt that, while successful, resulted in the loss of four lives on the descent. The frayed rope from that expedition is on display, as are many artifacts from climbers and farmers alike.

Website: www.zermatt.ch

2: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn)

Also known as Klein Matterhorn, this peak hosts the highest cable car station in Europe. From here you can ascend the mighty Breithorn, or access the ski pistes to Italy. In the summer, race through the area on one of the many mountain bike paths. The views from the observation deck are heartstopping, with Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn on full display. When you need to replenish, head to Restaurant Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which boasts itself as a MinergiePcertified zeroenergy establishment. The panoramic windows that frame the view of the chiseled peaks is the cherry on top of this sweet mountain spot.

Website: www.zermatt.ch

3: Gornergrat

This rocky ridge boasts breathtaking views of its namesake glacier, as well as some of the highest peaks in the Alps. In total, 29 peaks over 4,000m (13,123ft) surround Gornergrat, making it a popular destination for hikers and skiers. At the summit of the ridge lies the terminus of the Gornergrat railway, the highest openair railway in Europe, which connects the ridge to Zermatt below. The summit is also the site of the Kulmhotel Gornergrat, whose amenities include an astronomical observatory.

Website: www.gornergratbahn.ch

4: St. Peter’s Church (“The English Church”)

This church represents the socalled golden age of alpinism, when mountainclimbing was all the rage in Western Europe. Most of the mountaineers came in from England, but the only Englishspeaking church services at the time were held in hotels. Consensus began to form that there ought to be a proper Anglican church built. The disastrous conclusion to the first summit of the Matterhorn, wherein four men lost their lives, finalized the decision. These days, the church still holds English services, but even if you’re not looking to attend, the church’s historical significance makes it a worthwhile stop.

Website: www.zermatt.ch

5: Iglu-Dorf

If you’re impatient to hit the ski slopes during your stay, you might consider setting up camp at IgluDorf. This igloo village is located in the mountains above Zermatt, in some of the best ski country the region has to offer, which means it can get crowded. However, a stay at IgluDorf means beating the crowds and hitting the slopes before the lift even starts running. Rooms are lined with fur rugs and dotted with candles, creating pools of golden light that illuminate the fanciful patterns and shapes carved into the snow.

Website: www.iglu-dorf.com

6: St. Mauritius Church (Pfarrkirche St. Mauritius)

Although the original parish was constructed in 1285, the building you see today was built in the 1920s. The clock tower reaches elegantly toward the sky, as if doing its best impression of the Matterhorn behind it. Services here are performed in many languages, and even sung on certain Sundays. Classical music lovers can attend the Zermatt Festival every September. Additionally, the square upon which the church sits, called the Kirchplatz, is home to the annual Folklore Festival held in August.

Website: www.pfarrei.zermatt.net

7: Mountaineers’ Cemetery

The Alps are majestic and beautiful, but they can also be quite deadly. Everyone here remembers the tale of the first attempt to summit the Matterhorn in 1865, in which four of the seven climbers were lost, but over the years hundreds of climbers have lost their lives on these peaks. The Mountaineers’ Cemetery stands as a reminder to respect the power of the mountains, and to honor those who lost their lives in pursuit of the sky.

Website: www.zermatt.ch

8: Sunnegga Paradise Ski Area

This family retreat destination can be reached by funicular all year round. Nestled in the mountains, its view of the Matterhorn is stunning, and may be best enjoyed on the sunny terrace of the selfserve restaurant. In the summer, Leisee Lake beckons families with alpine swimming, barbeque pits, and playgrounds for thekids. There is also a marmotviewing station, complete with a themed trail. In the winter, of course, skiing and snowboarding are the order of the day.

Website: www.zermatt.ch

9: Village Tour Zermatt

The Village Tour can really be whatever you want it to be. Take a cursory glance at the town in a couple hours, or spend half a day touring its many historical and unbelievably scenic attractions. The ancient ways of the old time mountain farmers are still prevalent around here; most notably, cars are prohibited, in favor of horsedrawn carriages. When not traveling by carriage, Zermatt is the perfect town for strolling. Walk down the Bahnhofstrasse, the main shopping street. Explore Kirchplatz, the church square with the majestic Matterhorn in the background. No matter how you choose to tour Zermatt, it will always be breathtaking.

Website: www.zermatt.ch

10: Unterrothorn

This is the highest peak in the area, and yet the summit is still accessible by steam train and cable car. As with just about anywhere in the Alps, the views are spectacular, but Rothorn has the added eye candy of Lake Brienz twinkling below. Take a night in the mountain guesthouse, and enjoy a sumptuous meal at the Restaurant Rothorn, where the mountain views become extra spectacular at dusk and dawn.

Website: www.zermatt.ch

Top 10 Rimini, Italy Tourist Attractions

November 7, 2016 by candice

Roughly 200 miles south of Venice you will find Rimini nestled on the East coast of Italy and banked by the Adriatic Sea. Romans bring up a period of history that many people long to catch a glimpse of. Luckily, there are still areas where historical monuments and architecture stand as a testament to this historical period. Rimini is one such place. With more than nine miles of beautiful sandy beaches, thousands of restaurants, bars, discos and hotels, Rimini is one of the most popular destination spots in Italy.

1: Rimini Beaches

To enjoy some of the best nature has to offer in Rimini it is essential to spend time on the many beaches of the Adriatic Sea. With nine miles of beachfront, you are sure to find a nice, sunny spot. Different areas, such as Beach 33 allows for the company of your dog and offers many umbrella areas for a break from the sun. All sized dogs are welcome, as long as on leash and picked up after. There is also a fenced in playground where children can play safely. To get a true taste of Rimini a beach visit is an absolute must.

Website: www.beach33.com

2: Tempio Malatestiano

Since 1809 this has been the Cathedral of the diocese and a world example of Renaissance architecture. Many consider it the most aesthetically pleasing of all the Rimini monuments. Built by Leon Battista Alberti to be a casket of precious marble around St. Francis’ gothic church, it is an architectural wonder. The work was contracted by Sigismondo Malatesta in 1446 and finished in 1460, though left uncompleted. It has been completely restored, housing the Giotto Crucifixion, Piero Della Francesca’s fresco and many sculptures.

Website: www.diocesi.rimini.it

3: The Tiberius Bridge or Ponte di Tiberio

The history of the Tiberius Bridge is rich and dates back to Roman times. It is also called Ponte di Tiberio and Ponte d’Agusto because of the Romans who oversaw its construction. It was started during Augustus’ reign of 14 A.D. and finished under Tiberius’s reign, his successor, during 21 A.D. It is located on the north end of Corso d’Augusto, the main street. The bridge is an architectural marvel, constructed of Istrian Limestone and covering more than 70 meters with its five unmistakable arches. The bridge is Doric in style and was first built for crossing the Marecchia River. This was diverted before WWII and now it rests over the Rimini Marina. The Tiberius Bridge has withstood the test of time, as well as several attempts to destroy it, particularly by the Germans during WWII, and is still open to travel today.

Website: www.visit-rimini.com

4: Arch of Augustus (Arco d’Augusto)

If you want a slice of history, visit the oldest Roman triumphal archway still standing. It’s iconic and highlights how important the area was to the Romans. Dedicated to Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus and erected in 27 B.C. the arch marks the start of the Pax Romana, or a time of peace and prosperity for Romans. The arch noted the end of the Via Flaminia, the roman road, and the start of the city Rimini, then called Ariminum.

Website: www.visit-rimini.com

5: Sigismond Castle (Castel Sismondo)

Tucked in behind the Teatro Galli and Piazza Cavour, is the medieval Castel Sismondo also called Malatesta and sometimes Sigismond Castle. Began by Sigismondo Malatesta in the year 1437 it was finished in 1446. The castle served as a defensive structure but also as a source of prestige for Sigismondo Malatesta and his successors. The design is very picturesque with ceramic and stone inserts as well as pointed arches and long passages. When Malatesta passed in 1468 the castle was full of books, documents, amazing furniture, murals, fabrics, weapons, banners and jewelry. These days it is home to displays, exhibitions, conferences and guided tours. You can also visit the local market held at the foot of the castle on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Website: www.visit-rimini.com

town_museum 6: Museo della Città (Town Museum)

Housed in the former Jesuit College from the 18th century, the Town Museum is one of the best places to get the inside scoop on the history of Ariminum (what Rimini was called during Roman times). Here you will find many objects that archaeologists have discovered during their digs illuminating this historic period. You will also find many works from the 14-19C such as a crucifix from the area school, wood paintings, Giovanni Bellini’s Pieta and so much more. With over 1,500 displayed artifacts, the museum is a must see as it illustrates an amazing period in Roman history where sea and land meet.

Website: www.museicomunalirimini.it

aquafan 7: Aquafan Riccione

Are you looking to get active with the kids? If they have spent too much time taking in history it’s time to visit Aquafan Riccione, the Rimini waterpark. The park is open from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm every day from June 7th thru September 14th and they allow you to select a day to come back for free. Built in 1987, the park has three areas that are made with young children entirely in mind, attracting local families and visitors alike. For small children, the Elephant Pool is only 50 cm deep, with three small slides coming down from a pink elephant. The trunk sprays water for more fun. Older children can enjoy Focus Junior Beach, with much longer slides and a slightly deeper pool. Teenagers and adults need to try the high slides that are 200 meters long or the Kamikaze water slide that reaches a speed of 65 km/h. This is a park that will cool you off and provide fun for everyone.

Website: www.aquafan.it

8: Saint-Augustin Church (S. Agostino)

Erected in the 13th century by St. Augustine’s hermits and frescoed by Giovanni in the 14th century, this church is truly a masterpiece. The apse frescoes were rediscovered after an earthquake in 1916 and can now be seen. It has a gothic interior that was remodeled in the 17th century. It suffered much damage during WWII but has been restored. As rich in history as it is in beauty, the Saint-Augustin Church is a definite place to visit.

Website: www.en.riviera.rimini.it

9: Italia in Miniatura

Take a break from the large, historical architecture and walk in the land of miniatures at Italia in miniatura. Not like your average theme park, you can visit all of Europe or just Italy in small scale. If you don’t have time to see all the attractions you want to, stop here and visit all the historical buildings on a small scale. You’ll also have a chance to shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy tasty food while here.

Website: www.italiainminiatura.com

10: Fiabilandia

Another place to go with the family and cut lose from the history lessons is the Fiabilandia. For the youngest in the family there are carousels, play grounds, a magic village and a valley of gnomes. There is also lots of indoor fun with inflatable houses and jungle gyms for birthday parties. Additionally, there are many nature exhibits for the entire family to enjoy. More family fun includes the Hill of Boo-hoo, Labyrinth of Fu-Ming, Apache Village, Gold Mine, Bay of Peter Pan, Castle Merlin, SpaceMouse and much more. You can also enjoy Captain Hook, Where Dreams are Wishes and Buffalo Bill shows.

Website: www.fiabilandia.net