Blog – Page 3

Top 10 Istanbul, Turkey Tourist Attractions

November 7, 2016 by candice

1: Hagia Sophia Museum/Church (Aya Sofya)

Once an imperial mosque and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia is as much a stunning architectural accomplishment as it is an important religious, cultural, and historical symbol for Istanbul. The Hagia Sophia is located at one end of an expansive, lovely park filled with benches and palm trees, and it is from this park that one is able to view both the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. A unique opportunity would be to stand in the park when the two engage in echoing prayer which projects from their impressively tall minarets. If you’ve never heard the prayer, sung beautifully five times daily, you’re in for a special treat!

Website: www.ayasofyamuzesi.gov.tr

2: Blue Mosque(Sultanahmet Mosque)

This mosque is known as the Blue Mosque, for, as you could imagine, its blue tiles which line its walls of the interior. Unlike the Hagia Sophia, this mosque is a functioning one, so be aware if you are solely visiting, that it will be closed to non-worshipers for about half an hour at each of the five daily prayer times. This mosque is as enchanting on the outside as it is from within. Take time to admire its detail, best observed if you enter from the Hippodrome (west). If you are a non-Muslim visitor wishing to tour the inside of the mosque, remember that to be respectful one must remove shoes, women require head coverings to hide their hair, and clothes should be a more conservative length. Once you’ve followed these steps, you’re free to be swept away by the loveliness of the Blue Mosque!

Website: www.bluemosque.co

3: Topkapi Palace

Whether you’re a history buff or not, the fact that this palace was home to the sultans of the Ottoman Empire for about 400 years should be reason enough to visit this palace so significant to Turkish history. There are plenty of courtyards, smaller buildings, rooms and chambers to explore which at certain times in the past were home to over 4,000 people. The palace was transformed into a museum by the government in 1923 but is still a fantastic architectural specimen which houses many collections of Turkish weapons, shields, robes, and porcelain.

Website: www.topkapisarayi.gov.tr

4: Grand Bazaar(Kapali Carsi)

Who wouldn’t love perusing and exploring the secrets of vast, old markets in such romantic, historical cities like Istanbul? Do yourself a favor and see the magic that the Grand Bazaar has to offer in being one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. From carpets, golden bracelets, and jewelry to furniture, clothing and leather goods, the market has plenty to see and barter for. It’s an absolute must if you’d like to witness the place where at a time there existed no other place of its kind in the Western world for trade and vendors. This is a fascinating and thrilling complex, and definitely worth an afternoon of investigation and marveling.

Website: www.grandbazaaristanbul.org

5: Yerebatan Sarayi (Basilica Cistern)

There are hundreds of ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, and of these, the Basilica Cistern is the largest. 52 stone steps lead down into the entrance of the cistern, where it boasts 336 marble columns which support its ceiling, a series of criss-crossing vaults and high arches. This cistern is an extraordinary thing of historical beauty to witness; it will not disappoint.

Website: www.yerebatan.com/

6: Istanbul Archaeological Museum

A trip to a city like Istanbul wouldn’t be complete if you weren’t learning. The Istanbul Archaeological Museum has your back, being in actuality a group of three museums organized thematically. The Istanbul Archaeological Museum is one of the three, specializing obviously in archaeology; the second is the Museum of the Ancient Orient; the third is the Museum of Islamic Art. All three have a convenient location in a popular area, near Topkapi Palace. The collection is a comprehensive one, comprised of objects that cover nearly of the civilizations and historical periods of the entire world.

Website: www.istanbularkeoloji.gov.tr

7: Dolmabahce Palace (Dolmabahce Sarayi)

The building of this palace from 1843 to 1856 was ordered by Sultan Abdulmecid I and was the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from the year it was finished until 1922. Dolmabahce Palace has a beautiful location along the Bosphorus Strait and is a great way to learn more about a more modern Turkish history.

Website: www.dolmabahcepalace.com

8: Süleymaniye Mosque

Seated grandly atop Third Hill, the Suleymaniye Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul and for this sought out by locals and Turkish alike. The mosque’s construction began and ended in the mid-1500s, ordered by Sultan Suleyman. Because the mosque was established by a sultan, it has the privilege of having four minarets, as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia also do. The complex and mosque in their entirety certainly have an air of grandeur to them, as the exterior hosts a splendid courtyard filled with columns and gardens.

Website: www.sacred-destinations.com

9: Galata Tower

The Galata Tower is not to be confused with the old Galata Tower, which was built by the Byzantines and later destroyed in the early 1200s. The Galata Tower that stands today was built by the Genoese in 1348. It is a medieval, cylindrical stone tower complete with an observation deck, restaurant and café that lend a fantastic view of the city and the Bosphorus.

Website: www.turkeytravelplanner.com

10: Chora Church

Chora Church gives us an excellent idea of what a Byzantine Church looked like. It’s a fantastically preserved and beautiful example of the Byzantine style. The Ottoman Empire changed the church to a mosque in the 16th century, and that mosque is now a museum. The internal decoration has been well preserved so one of the main draws is the ability to see these mosaics that are still intact.

Website: www.choramuseum.com

Top 10 Glasgow, UK Tourist Attractions

November 7, 2016 by candice

1: Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

This museum is one of Glasgow’s most popular attractions, and it’s free to enter. The exhibits here mix natural history with points of interest from Scotland’s history, making it a mustsee for visitors and locals alike. It is in possession of an extensive collection of armor, and features a huge pipe organ upon which a recital is given every day. Paintings by Old Masters, Scottish Colourists, French Impressionists and Dutch Renaissance are all on display here, as well as Christ Of St. John Of The Cross by Salvador Dalí.

Website: www.glasgowlife.org.uk

2: Glasgow Botanic Gardens

This arboretum and public park features various glasshouses with the most famous being the Kibble Palace. Kibble Palace contains the fine collection of marble statues and various varieties of tropical plants and flowers. The park is also home to different themed gardens including World Rose garden, Herb garden, Vegatable garden, and the Children’s garden.

Website: www.glasgowbotanicgardens.com

3: The Burrell Collection

Named for shipping magnate and art enthusiast Sir William Burrell, this collection was given to the city of Glasgow in 1944. In terms of sheer quantity, art from periods throughout the history of China comprise the largest exhibit. There is also art from Islamic nations, as well as medieval and Gothic pieces. Burrell was enamored of artifacts involving royalty, including Prince Charles Edward Stewart’s christening apron and the headboard that belonged to Henry VIII.

Website: www.glasgowlife.org.uk

4: Gallery of Modern Art

This contemporary art museum sits in Royal Exchange Square. You’ll likely recognize it by the statue of the Duke of Wellington on a horse with a traffic cone on his head. Authorities used to remove the traffic cone on a regular basis, only to have another traffic cone put in its place a few days later. Eventually it became a tradition that continues to this day. Inside the museum you’ll see works by Andy Warhol, David Hockney and Sebastiao Salgado. Scottish modern artists like Ken Currie and John Bellany are also represented.

Website: www.glasgowlife.org.uk

5: The University of Glasgow: The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery

This museum actually encompasses many widely varied collections. William Hunter was a scientist and anatomy specialist who traveled the world collecting specimens and artifacts. By the time he died in 1783, he had amassed an enormous catalogue that he bequeathed to the University of Glasgow for the benefit of all future students. Roman Scotland and ancient Egypt, geology and enthnography, coins and medals, are all on display in the museum. The gallery has an extensive art collection, as well as an outdoor sculpture garden.

Website: www.gla.ac.uk

6: Glasgow Science Centre

Comprised of the Science Mall, the Glasgow Tower, and an IMAX theatre, visitors flock here to learn and have fun. The Science Mall is three stories of interactive displays and exhibits, including BodyWorks, where you can run on a giant hamster wheel and dance on a disco floor, all while learning about the processes that keep your body working. Amuse yourself with the chaos pendulum or the whispering dishes. The Science Centre also contains a planetarium with over 9,000 “stars”.

Website: www.glasgowsciencecentre.org

7: Riverside Museum: Scotland’s Museum of Transport and Travel

As the name suggests, this museum features an evolution of transportation in Scotland, going back to horsedrawn carriages and bicycles. Fire engines, motorcycles and caravans are also on display, as well as a host of Scottishmade automobiles. Road transport is just one mode; the museum also features trains and boats. Visitors are encouraged to interact, whether using the site’s many touch screens or stopping into the“shops” that line the replicated streets of old Glasgow. Each exhibit provides a valuable glimpse into the history of this country and the rest of the world.

Website: www.glasgowlife.org.uk

8: Glasgow Cathedral

The story goes that St. Mungo, the patron saint of Glasgow, built his church on the site where this cathedral now stands. The style is classic Scottish Gothic, with a rood screen on the interior that is an unlikely survivor of the battles of Glasgow in the late 16th century. It is only because the Glasgow town council, with money provided by King James VI, voted to restore and maintain the cathedral that it still stands today. It still hosts congregations for worship and music performances.

Website: www.glasgowcathedral.org.uk

9: People’s Palace and Winter Gardens

This unique structure was built in 1898 as a cultural center for what was, at the time, a dirty and overpopulated section of the city. Originally outfitted with reading and recreation rooms, it is now a museum of the social history of Glasgow, detailing the work and leisure habits of the city’s people as those have evolved over time. The ornate and gorgeous glasshouse is where you’ll find the Winter Gardens, replete with palm trees and other exotic flora.

Website: www.glasgowlife.org.uk

10: Pollok House and Country Park

This country park has the esteem of being named the Best Park in Britain in 2006 and the Best Park in Europe in 2008. The property belonged to one family for nearly 700 years before being given over to the city in 2006. The house features a private collection of Spanish paintings, silverware, porcelain, and antique furniture. After a turn through the house, enjoy the tranquil scenery of the park. The White Cart River flows through the property, adding to the verdant idyll.

Website: www.nts.org.uk

Top 10 Munich, Germany Tourist Attractions

November 6, 2016 by candice

1: St. Mary’s Square (Marienplatz Square)

Historically this square held festivities, tournaments, and was the site of the city’s marketplace. Today it remains the city’s center, but for different reasons. Marienplatz is an excellent place to see fantastic German architecture in the form of the Old and New Town Halls. The Fischbrunnen Fountain and the Column of St. Mary are also big draws for visitors.

Website: www.gogermany.about.com

2: Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche)

The twin towers of the Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Lady) has been the major attraction to visit in the Bavarian city of Munich. The city center requires that buildings be built no taller than 99 meters, which happens to be the height of the two towers of the Frauenkirche, that now dominate the city center’s skyline. Its foundation was laid in 1468 and today the cathedral serves as the seat for the Archbishop and the Archdiocese of Munich.

Website: www.aviewoncities.com

3: English Garden (Englischer Garten)

The Englischer Garten is Europe’s largest city park, stretching from the city center to the northeast city limits. The park boasts a Chinese pagoda, a Greek temple named Monopteros, and a Japanese teahouse. Sunbathing is a popular pastime for locals, although Kleinhesseloher lake and the beer gardens are also great alternatives if you’re in need of a cool down.

Website: www.muenchen.de

4: Residenz Palace (Wittelsbach Residence)

From 1508 to 1918 the Munich Residenz was the former royal palace for the Bavarian Dukes, electors and kings. Today its magnificent architecture, its extensive room decorations and the displays of the former royal collections are open to the public. There are over 130 rooms and 10 courtyards for visitors to explore!

Website: www.residenz-muenchen.de

5: Royal Brewery (Hofbraeuhaus)

The Hofbraeuhaus was once a royal brewery in the Bavarian Kingdom. Nowadays it’s known for some of its popular beers including Maibock, Oktoberfest and Dunkel. The brewery also holds one of the largest tents at the country’s famous Oktoberfest celebrations.

Website: www.hofbraeuhaus.de

6: Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

The palace’s construction began in 1664 and since that time has been expanded and changed over the years. What we see today is a Baroque style palace, which was where Bavarian rulers once resided during the summers. The grounds and park are now open, displaying some of the rooms with their original Baroque interiors and decorations.

Website: www.schloss-nymphenburg.de

7: Deutsches Museum (German Museum)

This is the largest museum in Munich. It holds over 28,000 objects in scientific and technological exhibits. The main site of the museum can be found on a small, beautiful island in the Isar River. Some of the notable current exhibits include Astronomy, Masterpieces, Hydraulic Engineering, and Mineral Oil and Natural Gas.

Website: www.deutsches-museum.de

8: BMW Headquarters and Museum

The 101 meter tall BMW Headquarters is such an icon in Munich that in 1999 was declared a protected historic building. The museum next door is what brings in the hundreds of thousands of yearly visitors. It displays the development of cars and motorcycles and also has exhibits detailing the history of the company.

Website: www.bmw-welt.com/en/

9: Food Market (Viktualienmarkt)

What was once a food market that locals used to purchase goods needed for daily life is now still a food market, but so much more. Along with selling poultry, cheese, spices, fish, vegetables and juices, it has also garnered a reputation for gourmet items. Now if you visit the market you’ll see exotic fruits, lovely flowers, game, plants, venison, and honey as well. If you’re lucky you’ll catch one of the many traditional or folkloric events that the market often hosts.

Website: www.muenchen.de

10: Pinakothek Museums

Each of the three museums in this complex offers a look into a different period in art. The Neue features 19th German art and an excellent collection of French impressionists. The Alte specializes in masterpieces, over 800 of them, from the Middle Ages. The Pinakothek der Moderne is Germany’s largest museum of modern art, including greats among the likes of Picasso, Warhol and Kandinsky.

Website: www.gogermany.about.com

Top 10 Brussels, Belgium Tourist Attractions

November 6, 2016 by candice

Brussels is a beautiful city. The tiny city is located right in the middle of historic Belgium and it is one of the most visited cities in Europe. Of course, it also helps that the city has experienced major historic, cultural, civil upheavals during a century of history. Tourists visiting the city are treated to a mix of unique architecture, history, food and culture. In fact, a quick walk about the city is more than enough to stun the most jaded of travelers. However, apart from local attractions, these few places we’ve listed below are personal favorites and they signify the spirit of what is Brussels.

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1: Grand Place / Town Hall

You can start by visiting the Town Hall of Brussels. The historic building has been captured countless times in films and media and almost everyone may recognize the beautiful building. The facade of the building is decorated with nobles, saints, and fantastical figures of legend. On the interior, the building has been renovated and replenished with antique sculptures, tapestries and paintings from the relevant historical periods. The Brabant-Gothic style building is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site but the entire area is filled with heritage buildings that copy the same style but exhibit unique structures that are a must-see.

Website: www.brussels.be

2: Manneken-Pis

There is something just so, so adorable about the Manneken-Pis or the peeing toddler perched on top of the junction of Rue de l’Étuve/Stoofstraat and Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat. The adorable statue was made and set up in 1619 by the legendary sculptor Hieronimus Duquesnoy. Although no one knows what inspired the sculptor to create the tiny sculpture, the Manneken-Pis has quickly become one of the most well-known landmarks in Brussels. One of the hilarious aspects of the statue is that it is dressed up in costumes that change three to five times a week. This tradition has been followed since the beginning of the 20th century and the statue now has several hundred costumes in its wardrobe. The statue also has a female counterpart called the Jeanneke Pis that is located on the east end of the Impasse de la Fidélité/Getrouwheidsgang and a pet dog caught in the same act and located at Halles Saint Géry.

Website: www.manneken-pis.be

3: St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule)

Almost every building in Brussels is impressive but the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral is a shining example of Gothic architecture. The interior is characterized by statues of the 13 apostles, an impressive Baroque pulpit, a huge organ, and beautiful stained glass windows. The Cathedral is built of stone but it personifies the beautiful architecture seen all over the city. If you like churches, the Cathedral is a must-see.

Website: www.cathedralestmichel.be

4: Mini-Europe

Historic architecture is not the only thing offered by Brussels. The city has wonderful tourist attractions like Mini-Europe that are perfect for families. The miniature park is located at the foot of the Atomium in Brussels. It displays reproductions of monuments in the European Union and it has more than 80 cities with 350 buildings from all over Europe. The park gets more than 350,000 visitors every year and it has stunning miniature action models like trains, mills, cars, and even cable cars. The miniature gardens consisting of cover plants, bonsai trees and grafted trees are a must-see as well. A guide is available to show you hidden attractions but you will easily require two to three days to enjoy the entire display.

Website: www.minieurope.be

5: The Royal Palace (Palais Royal)

The Brussels Royal Palace is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. However, it is not the official residence of the royalty. At present, the king and queen reside in the Royal Palace of Laeken. The palace has an impressive collection of artwork, sculpture, fine crystal, porcelain, linen, tapestries, and other antiques from all over the world. It is also the official location for state banquets and formal occasions for visiting state heads.

Website: www.monarchie.be

6: Horta Museum (Musee Horta)

The Horta Museum showcases the work of legendary Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta. The UNESCO World Heritage Site houses a permanent collection of furniture, art objects, paintings, photographs and utensils created by Horta and his contemporaries. The building is nothing great to look at but it is an Art Nouveau jewel on the inside with tangles and swirls of color and shade incorporated into the interior. Stunning floor mosaics, swirling stained glass windows, and colorful ceramic brick interiors combined with rich American Ash period furniture. The beautiful copper/brass — shaded interiors are a great way to get acquainted with the designer and his signature style.

Website: www.hortamuseum.be

7: The Atomium

The Atomium was originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels’ World Fair. Although the building is beautiful, it has often has been called Europe’s most bizarre building. The name ‘Atomium’ comes from the building’s design that is supposed to mimic the unit cell structure of an iron crystal. The building has a restaurant on the top but the remaining spheres of the unique building house exhibition spaces. The building is also adjacent to Mini-Europe and De Laeken Park and both places are a must-visit.

Website: www.atomium.be

8: Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and of Military History

If you are a fan of military history, you should consider a visit to Brussel’s legendary Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and of Military History. As the name suggests, the museum catalogs Belgium’s military history with a collection of more than 2000 pieces from public collections and private donations. The collection is housed in a building designed by Belgian architect Gédéon Bordiau in 1875. Now, the museum has also been expanded to include an Aviation Museum.

Website: www.klm-mra.be

9: MIM – Musical Instruments Museum (Musee des Instruments de Musique)

Nothing compares to the sheer variety of musical instruments available in the MIM – Musical Instruments Museum. At last count, the museum had more than 8000 instruments on display and many more were being added daily. Visitors are given infrared headphones that play musical extracts as they walk through the displays. The building housing the collection is truly beautiful as well. The girded steel and glass building was built in the Art Nouveau style by designer Barnabe Guimard and it is a perfect setting for the museum.

Website: www.mim.org

10: Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice)

It’s tough to think of a court as a tourist attraction but the Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice) manages to do just that and much, much more. The stunning building showcases the eclectic style of popular architect Joseph Poelaert. The concept for the building was originally set forward by Leopold I in 1860 and several designs were rejected before Poelaert was commissioned to come up with a stunning concept. The architect did not disappoint and he was appointed as the official architect for the building. The surprising fact is that the Palace of Justice is huge and bigger than St Peter’s Basilica in Rome with more than eight courtyards, 27 court rooms, 245 small rooms, and many more other rooms as well.

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Top 10 Berlin, Germany Tourist Attractions

October 25, 2016 by candice

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1: Brandenburg Gate (Brandenburger Tor)

This is the main entrance to the city, which was surrounded by the wall for thirty long years. Today, visitors flock to this landmark to experience for themselves the first gateway to the city. While you are here, enjoy the freedom walk and take a look at magnificent works of art that surround the gate.
Website: www.stadtentwicklung.berlin.de

2: Reichstag Building (Reichstagsgebäude)

This historical edifice was constructed to house the Imperial Diet in 1984. In October 1990, after undergoing reconstruction, it once again became the meeting place for the German parliament. While you are here, check out the large glass dome at the to of the Reichstag for a fantastic 360-degree view of the city. You may also enjoy a fine meal with your loved ones at the rooftop restaurant. Registration to tour the building should be booked in advance.

Website: www.berlin.de

3: Berlin Wall (Berliner Mauer)

Learn about Berlin’s fascinating history by exploring the Berlin Wall Memorial. The site contains the last piece of the Berlin Wall and visitors will get to enjoy guided tours of the open-air exhibition, the Chapel of Reconciliation, as well as the Ghost Stations Exhibition.

Website: www.berliner-mauer-gedenkstaette.de

4: Checkpoint Charlie

This historical landmark stands as a reminder of the best-known border crossing during the time of the Cold War. Today it is one of Berlin’s primary tourist attractions. Make sure to check out the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie Museum where you will discover the best documentation of several well-known escape attempts from the East to the West. Here you will also learn about how the checkpoint was expanded, as well as its significance during the Cold War. You can even have your photographs taken with actors dressed as allied military policemen for free.

Website: www.berlin.de

5: Museum Island (Museumsinsel)

Located on the northern tip of Spree Island, this magnificent work of art involves five extraordinary museums gathered in a one-of-a-kind ensemble. The Pergamon museum has about one million visitors each year and holds exquisite permanent exhibits. The Bode-Museum houses Byzantine Art and Numismatic collections. The Neues Museum features an amazing showpiece of the bust of Nefertiti. The Alte Nationalgalerie features works of Classicism, Romanticism, Impressionism and early Modernism. Lastly, the Altes Museum’s permanent exhibition presents Greek and Roman art sculptures. The Museum Island is the best place to visit for art and culture enthusiasts all over the world.

Website: www.visitberlin.de

6: Holocaust Memorial (Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe)

Serving as a central place to commemorate the people of the Holocaust, tourists flock to the memorial every year. Make sure to visit the underground information center where you will learn about the victims and the different places of horror. You can also view the historical film, photo documentation and interviews with the survivors to gain a deeper understanding of what exactly happened during the Holocaust.

Website: www.stiftung-denkmal.de

7: Charlottenburg Palace (Schloss Charlottenburg)

A must-visit when you are in Berlin, Charlottenburg Palace is the largest and most beautiful palace in the city. Built as a summer residence for Sophie Charlotte, the first queen of Prussia, the palace contains interiors with different architectural styles ranging from gorgeous baroque rooms to more modern and contemporary styles. Make sure to visit the famous palace gardens with its world-renowned collections of KPM porcelain.

Website: www.aviewoncities.com

8: Potsdamer Platz

This is one of the most hip and happening places in the capital city of Germany. Enjoy several hours of fun and entertainment at the Superlative Cinema, treat your family to a lovely fine dining experience at some of their fantastic restaurants, or go shopping at the Paradise in Berlin-Mitte.

Website: www.potsdamerplatz.de/en

9: Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm Berlin)

While in Berlin, there is no better way to see the city at a glance than on the Berlin TV Tower. The tower is 207 meters high and while you are on the top, you will get to see a breathtakingly beautiful 360-degree view of the city. The TV Tower attracts about 1.2 million tourists each year so this is definitely an attraction that you should not miss.

Website: www.tv-turm.de

10: Unter den Linden

Berlin’s most elegant boulevard was originally a bridle path that led from the city palace all the way to Charlottenburg Palace. Along Unter den Linden, tourists can explore wonderful attractions like the Humboldt University, the State Opera, the Neue Wache memorial as well as the Zeughaus Armoury.

Website: www.visitberlin.de

Top 10 Milan, Italy Tourist Attractions

October 25, 2016 by candice

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1: The Duomo or Cathedral of Milan

The Duomo or Cathedral of Milan is the number one place for tourists to visit. Monumental building amazes by its unbelievable architecture and long history. The cathedral is situated in the center of the city: all streets that surround it make a circle. Rich exterior of the cathedral consists of spectacular detains and extravagant gothic element. Inside, you will find fascinating altars, marvelous religious paintings and marble statues. You can also take part in exciting trip climbing to the roof of cathedral. From that point you would be able to see fabulous view of the city.

Website: www.duomomilano.it

2: Victor Emmanuel II Gallery (The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan)

In the center of Milan you can find the most entertaining and spectacular mall, which would be a place of a great interest for shopping fans. Hundreds of small shops, huge variety of choice and many well-known brands such as Valentino, Prada, Louis Vuitton and others. Galleria is built from glass and iron, and its ceiling is made from many mosaics, which make the place a truthful masterpiece of art. The Galleria is famous not only because of hundreds fashion shops, but for relaxing and laid-back cafes, where you can feel the atmosphere of romantic Italy.

Website: www.aviewoncities.com/milan

3: Canals of Milan (The Navigli)

Activity, which is almost mandatory for tourists visiting Italy, is having trip on the Navigli channels. The system itself consists of five canals. On the banks of each canal, you can find many entertainment units, including bars, restaurants, karaoke, museums and shops. Canals were used for irrigation, but nowadays riding a boat is one of the most common attractions in Italy. Naviglio Grande is the most popular canal among tourists, especially during the summer season. You can rent a boat and enjoy the picturesque views of astonishing Italy.

Website: www.aviewoncities.com/milan

4: Sforzesco Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

You can enjoy most prominent Italian cultural events and exhibitions visiting Sforzesco Castle. It has a long history and outstanding architecture. Castle was built in 14th century and even though it was several times renovated from that time, building still has its charm and maintains the atmosphere of ancient history. Castle has free admission, however, you will be charged if you want to visit castle museums.

Website: www.milanocastello.it

5: Teatro alla Scala (La Scala)

The finest and the most adorable among fans of the theatre place to visit in Milan is Teatro alla Scala. It is an unbelievably huge building, decorated with amazing details and creative ornaments, where you can see a lot of well-known performances. Traditionally, season for plays at La Scala opens in the early December. Starting from that time, visitors are able to become a part of fabulous art, enjoy local culture and broaden own outlook on many social things.

Website: www.teatroallascala.org

6: Leonardo’s Last Supper & Santa Maria delle Grazie

Santa Maria delle Grazie is one of the most spectacular places to see in Italy. Inside you can see one of the most outstanding masterpieces of humanity ever: Leonardo’s Last Supper. Special perspective and striking efforts to save the original of the picture led to our today’s ability to see it untouched by the time. Church by itself is a monumental result of the most famous architects. Beautiful frescoes, enormous columns and mysterious atmosphere attract many curious tourists from all over the world.

Website: www.sacred-destinations.com

7: Fashion District (Quadrilatero della Moda)

Milan is the capital of fashion and thus, visiting Milan for shopping has become a dream for millions of people. Armani, Versace, Gabbana, Chanel fashion houses are excited to show their new collections and bring into a crowd the unique taste of beauty. Fashion District is a small town in a big city: neat streets, smiling people, pedestrianized roads and outstanding sense of style. Via Montenapoleone is the most famous fashion street in Milan, where you can find clothes which will emphasize on your individuality.

Website: www.aviewoncities.com/milan

8: Brera National Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera)

If you want to feel the unique atmosphere of Italian art, you should put Pinacoteca di Brera on your to-do list. The fascinating galleria hosts tens of the most spectacular art exhibitions in the world. The building also contains the academy of fine arts of Brera, which is well-known for its prominent graduates and high level of education. Brera National Art Gallery is recognized as a national Italian heritage.

Website: www.aviewoncities.com/milan

9: Central Station (Stazione di Milano Centrale)

Central Station is famous for its amazing and unusual for stations design. Station was first opened in 19th century and was several times renovated from its original opening date. From year to year it was more and more modernized and today we can see it as an absolute masterpiece of art. Every day it serves for millions of passengers and operates almost 600 trains/day.

Website: www.grandistazioni.it

10: Basilica of Saint Ambrose (Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio)

Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is one of the oldest churches in Milan. Building has a huge dramatic history and scenic architecture. The finest reliefs and amazing mosaics make this place unique and attractive to thousands of tourists.

Website: www.basilicasantambrogio.it