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Visiting Corfu – The Eight Family Destinations That You Have to Check Out

Greece is a beautiful location to take a vacation. But how kid-friendly is it? Discover the best places to visit in Corfu with the entire family.

Greece is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. And Corfu is a shining jewel that you definitely can’t miss.

Located in the Ionian Sea, the island of Corfu is often called the “Garden Isle” because of its lush landscape and iconic beaches. It’s the perfect setting for a vacation in paradise.

For starters, you can visit one of the smaller island villages, like Arilla or Saint Gordios. Or take a 1-day sailing trip and island-hop along the Ionian Sea.

There’s no question that there’s plenty to do in this little slice of Mediterranean heaven. This island boasts some of the best beaches. In Corfu, though, there’s so much more to explore.

While the entire island is very kid-friendly, here are some of the best places to visit in Corfu with the family.

Old Corfu Town

Corfu Old Corfu Town

Sure, the sunshine and beaches may capture your kids’ attention, but Corfu is more than just its beaches. Take a walk around Corfu Town and celebrate one of the most beautiful towns the country has to offer.

The town, also the island capital, is a cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll marvel at the Venetian influence of this picturesque town. And don’t forget to check out the Museum of Archaeology and the Venetian fortress.

Aqualand

Corfu Aqualand Water park

Would you go to Corfu, Greece to visit a waterpark?

Why not, when the waterpark is one of the most impressive in Europe. And especially when many of the designers worked on Universal Studios and Disney attractions!

The waterpark is set in the heart of Corfu with over 28-square miles of forest offering plenty of shade. That means there’s no need to head indoors when the temperatures soar and you need to cool off the kids in a hurry.

Take advantage of the park’s 15 adventure pools and 36 waterslides. The park features the usual waterpark suspects, like a lazy river, high-speed rides, and wave pool. But it also has very shallow pools with water features for the little ones in your family.

Corfu Aquarium

Corfu Corfu Aquarium

Maybe waterparks aren’t your thing. If you want to get out of the sun and away from the beaches for a couple of hours, this may be the perfect place for you.

For something a little slower paced that can still keep the kids excited, you may want to head down to the Corfu Aquarium. It’s where you can check out reptiles like iguanas, snakes, and lizards, as well as the island’s marine life.

You can explore the exhibits at your own pace or opt for a guided tour to learn about each of the aquarium’s residents.

Casa Parlante

Corfu Casa Parlante

While you’re in Corfu’s old town, don’t forget to stop by Casa Parlante. Even the most history-reticent family members can find something interesting here because it’s not your average history museum.

This interactive museum creates ‘real-life scenes’ from important parts of the island’s history. And it’s complete with smells, sounds, and even robotics!

Dive into the life of Corfu’s 19th-century nobility and explore rooms where history comes to life before your eyes.

Messonghi Beach

Corfu Messonghi Beach

Sure, Paleokastritsa is one of the most famous beaches in Corfu. But if you have little ones, you may want to head to Messonghi.

Messonghi Beach is one of the best beaches in Corfu for kids because it has some of the shallowest waters. These shallow waters continue hundreds of yards past the coast. And it’s the only resort on the east coast that features a sandy beach.

Achilleion Palace

Corfu Achilleion Palace

Venture outside of Corfu Town and you’ll find this beautiful palace and garden built by the Austrian Empress Elisabeth in 1890. You and the family can explore the grounds and take in the breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding valleys.

And if your kids like Greek mythology, they’re in for a treat.

Not only is the palace named after the famous mythological hero Achilles, but there’s a statue of him in the garden, too!

Mavroudis Olive Farm

Corfu Mavroudis Olive Farm

Mavroudis’ museum tells the history of one of the most important productions in the region – olive oil. And this family has a history of making such world-class products for generations.

What’s impressive is that the Mavroudis family spent years hunting down old olive oil and making exhibits and machinery for the museum. Some of the exhibits even go as far back as the mid-19th century.

See for yourself how the island’s olives transform into liquid gold and enjoy an oil tasting session. The tour operators are very passionate about the craft, and even the owners themselves jump into this role frequently!

Angelokastro

Corfu Angelokastro

If you have older children ready for an adventure, why not hike to these stunning Greek ruins?

The Angelokastro was an important Byzantine-era castle near the village of Krini. It now lies in ruins, but that may be perfect for the budding archaeologist in your family.

Keep in mind that it’s quite a hike to the top, as it rises 1000ft above the sea. But once you get to the top, though, you can take in the unforgettable views of Paleokastritsa and the northern part of the island.

It’s Time to Round Up the Kids

Corfu Greece has plenty of sunshine and beaches to keep the whole family occupied. But it’s also steeped in history and has a charm of its own.

When you tire of playing in the sand, head out to one of the destinations that Corfu has to offer. Or, take advantage of the many glass-bottom boat tours and horse treks available on the island.

Corfu may sing a siren’s song luring you to lull your days away on the beach. But your children may want something more from their vacation.

When they clamor for exploration, you can pull one of these many family-friendly destinations out of your hat. And show them the heart of this beautiful island.

Trip Ideas

The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers

Madrid Sights Art and History

The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers

Go beyond sports and Mediterranean cuisine. Madrid is a top destination for art and history enthusiasts, too.

Spain’s capital city is elegant, expansive, and very busy 24/7. It also holds some of the largest collections of European art and weaponry. And there are many museums, historic landmarks, and other repositories that you can visit. When you’re tired of taking in Spanish history, the scenic parks await.

Check out some of the most popular tourist attractions in Madrid.

1.   Tour the Prado Museum

What is Madrid known for? It’s many museums, one of the most famous being the Prado Museum. It opened in 1819 and now features over 2,000 paintings and hundreds of sculptures. And the exhibits have Spanish, Italian, and Flemish artist signatures.

It’s also one of the busiest museums in all of Spain. So, make sure you get your ticket early in the day. But if you’re on a tight budget, you can try to get in for free during the last two hours of the schedule.

It’s truly one of the essential Madrid sights for art and history lovers.

2.   Visit the Royal Palace and Gardens

Sometimes referred to as the Spanish Versailles, it’s a royal court with impressive statues and lavish gardens. You can even take your own photos of the statues of Spanish kings and visit the apartments of King Charles the Third.

It has breathtaking interiors and features just about everything you could think of – from marble flooring and silk wall hangings to chandeliers and famous paintings. The palace walls feature works made by the likes of Goya, Rubens, Caravaggio, and other masterful artists.

The Royal Armory is also a nice stop for history buffs. The 3,000 exhibits tell the story of the Spanish military. And some of these pieces date back to the 16th century.

3.   Stand in the Puerta del Sol

You can’t go to Madrid without standing in the heart of the city. It’s a big town square that acts as a central hub of transportation and occupies a unique position. That’s in reference to the sun.

But this is not just a place with gorgeous architecture and geography.

It’s also the site of many historic events. The most important being the site of where Spain made a stand against Napoleon in 1808. And it’s also the site of the Second Republic proclamation of 1931.

Aside from being rich in history, it’s known to be lively both day and night. It’s also a great place to grab something to eat or drink. And if you’re interested in the local nightlife, in and around the square are some of the hottest locales in the city.

4.   Grab Your Dose of Contemporary Art

The Contemporary Art Museum is a must-see if you’re looking for something more modern. It opened in 1986, making it one of the newer, and yet highly popular, museums in the world.

It’s where you can also see the works of Picasso and Salvador Dali, among many other famous artists. The building itself has three glass towers around the elevators and a beautiful garden in its courtyard that has a variety of quirky sculptures.

The exhibit occupies over nine acres. It will take you a while to take it all in, but there are also a cafeteria and a restaurant for when you need a break.

5.   Visit Spain’s Egyptian Monument

The Temple of Debod is a gift from Egypt to Spain back in 1968. It’s an ancient temple located in La Montana Park and is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

The temple has original decorations, peaceful gardens surrounding it, and impressive shrines. A visit here’s considered as one of the most unique things to do in Madrid.

6.   Tour the Archaeological Museum

Visiting the Archaeological Museum is a must if you want to learn more about Spain’s history. In fact, it has an impressive collection of artifacts that predate the Romans.

Here you’ll find pieces over 2,500 years old that still look amazing and even almost new. The restoration and preservation work on this collection is most impressive and, as an art lover or history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss it.

7.   Step Into the Oasis of Buen Retiro Park

This park offers 296 acres of lush scenery away from the busy streets. While the park is still part of the town, it acts as an oasis for those seeking peace and quiet and clean air.

It’s also one of the most elegant public parks you’ll see, as the park has many fountains and reflecting pools. From time to time, you can even catch an art exhibit right here. Like any other park, you can also relax in shade here or drink a cup of coffee at an open-air café.

And for nighttime travelers, the park’s historic observatory is the place to be on a clear night.

8.   Experience Street Performances at the Plaza Mayor

Madrid is a hotspot for art lovers from around the world, but it doesn’t just offer museum exhibits. There are also some lively spots that are a must-visit.

The Plaza Mayor is a large open square that’s thriving with life. It’s also convenient, as there are many cafes where you can sit down and watch street performers. It’s also a great place to visit when on holiday if you want to sample holiday markets.

The place definitely has a touristy vibe to it. Yet it has an authentic ambiance that offers a unique experience. It even comes with a guided walking tour where you can learn about the history of the square from 1617 to the present.

9.   Visit the Old Royal Hunting Grounds

What was once the Spanish hunting grounds for the royal family is now a great park to spend time with the kids. When you’re done taking in the scenery, architecture, and works of art, you’ll want to stop here for a while.

For starters, you can go on a walk and have a picnic. But you can also go kayaking on the lake or hop on one of the dozens of theme park rides. Casa de Campo is also home to the Zoo Aquarium where you’ll find a dolphin show, giant pandas, and many other unique displays.

Visit One of the Best Places to Live in the World

Madrid has a lot to offer for tourists of all ages. While many may see it as a destination for sports fans, perhaps even more people visit for its many art, history, and architectural gems.

This city is teeming with life and gorgeous exhibits and it’s worth a longer stay.

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Brussels

Brussels Isn’t Just About Sprouts – 12 Gorgeous Sights in Belgium’s Capital

Brussels Sights

Brussels Isn’t Just About Sprouts – 12 Gorgeous Sights in Belgium’s Capital

Brussels is the seat of today’s European politics. And it’s also a city with gorgeous and unique landmarks.

Brussels has two parts – the old part of town and the new part of town. As such, it is a very diverse tourist destination that makes it Belgium’s most visited city. What’s even better? The city is small enough for you to easily visit all the important landmarks and monuments.

When you’re done munching on Belgian fries and sampling the local beers, here are some places you might want to visit.

1.   Take a Grand Tour of the Grote Markt

The Grote Markt, or Grand Place, is the center of Brussels Old Town. This main plaza is well-preserved and features unique architecture. Don’t forget to check out the stonework – it’s amazing and everything is highly detailed.

Most of the buildings and sculptures here date back to before 1700. While there is some Flemish influence in the style, everything is predominantly Baroque.

The town hall building still looks great for a building commissioned in 1402. But then again, so does everything else in the Grand Place.

2.   Tour the Saint-Michel Cathedral

Construction on the Gothic Saint-Michel Cathedral started in 1225 but was only finished in the 15th century. And over time, numerous artists contributed to the cathedral’s artwork and stained-glass windows.

A majestic building with twin high towers and a lavish interior, it’s a top Brussels attraction for anyone, especially architecture students and history buffs.

3.   Photo Shoot at the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is still the official residence of the Belgian royal family. That’s why the iconic Changing of the Guard event still happens here at 2:30 pm every day.

You can also take photos of various Neoclassical buildings surrounding the palace. Don’t forget to walk around the garden. It looks perfect all the time and makes for a great photoshoot location on a sunny day.

Here’s an interesting fact: if you see the flag flown up on the roof, it means that the sovereign is home.

4.   Enjoy Some Pop Culture Exhibits

Brussels isn’t just about the old part of town and historic buildings.

The Comic Strip Center, commissioned in 1906, is a different kind of attraction. This spot hosts some of the largest cartoon and comics exhibits around. In fact, many Belgian and French artists have rotating exhibits here.

Don’t forget to check out original artwork, drafts, and manuscripts of various artists. It will leave you in awe at their talent.

5.   Tour the Royal Museum of Fine Arts

The first collection in this museum dates back to 1797. And today, it hosts not just one of Belgium’s greatest art galleries but also the world’s.

Most of the paintings on display here are by Flemish and Dutch painters. There’s a good selection of classic pieces here, as well as artwork mainly from the 19th century and 20th century.

6.   Take in a Surreal Landmark Attraction

One of the most popular things to do in Belgium is to check out the Atomium. This unique building, designed after a molecule of iron, is made of steel and aluminum. It stands 334.6ft tall and is very unusual from an architectural standpoint.

What surprises people the most is that the building is fully functional. You can go inside in four of the nine existing spheres. That’s where you can catch the show known as Biogenium. And it’s an interesting presentation, particularly if you’re interested in biology, chemistry, and human life.

7.   Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Belgium is famous for its chocolate and beer. And for chocolate lovers, a tour of the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate is a must.

It’s also one of the most intriguing museums in Brussels, featuring sculptures, exhibits, and demonstrations. The small entry fee and free samples make it worth your while. But if you’re not interested in history, go here at least for the spinning wheel that pours melted chocolate.

8.   Look at More Weird Attractions

Interested in more unique attractions in Brussels? Belgium has no shortage of weird landmarks. A case in point is Manneken Pis. This little bronze statue of a boy “filling up” the fountain underneath gathers huge crowds.

What makes it most interesting, and hilarious, is that the statue gets dressed for various occasions, depending on what events are taking place. While it is a bit weird that it gets so much attention, it’s also a free tourist spot.

9   Relax and Take in the Scenery

While many know Brussels for its majestic historic buildings, it’s also home to a huge park. The Bois de la Cambre spans 247 acres and is an ideal place for anyone to relax.

You can go on a bike ride through the park, have a picnic or enjoy a boat ride while enjoying the view and fresh air. You don’t even have to pay an entrance fee to enjoy the park.

There aren’t any cars allowed on the weekends, which makes it even better.

10.   Tour the Cinquantenaire Park

Dating back to the 1800s, its construction marked Belgium’s 50th year of independence. And this park is host to amazing gardens and fountains. But, it’s not the only attraction here.

The park houses several museums, too. These include the Royal Military Museum and the Autoworld museum, which are among the most popular. Various events also happen here throughout the year, so it’s best to plan ahead.

11.   Enjoy the Winter Festivities in Brussels

Summer is not the only time to visit Brussels. Because if you go during the winter you can experience the Christmas markets, which are famously known as Winter Wonders.

During this time, the Grand Place turns into a Christmas-themed location where you can get your trinkets, drinks, light shows, and more. There are even live performances and traditional carnival rides, not to mention parades, that you don’t want to miss out on.

12. Check Out the European Union’s Headquarters

Believe it or not, the European District is one of the most unique places to visit in Belgium.

While it’s undeniably an important district for European politics, economics, and social rights, it’s also a very lively spot in the evening. There are many parks and bars around where you can spend some time while feeling the culture and history of the EU around you.

Brussels – Go for the Food and Drinks, Stay for the Scenery

Many visit Brussels to sample some of the best beers, fries, and chocolates in the world. But the city is more than that – it’s also rich in history and art. And given the size of Brussels, you can easily see a lot of everything even with limited time here.

There is plenty to do in the summer and winter. Whether you want to see a car museum, military exhibits, or take a boat ride, nothing is off-limits.

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Best Cities

Glasgow-Bound – The 11 Places You Need to Visit in Scotland’s Second City

Places to visit in Glasgow Scotland

Glasgow-Bound – The 11 Places You Need to Visit in Scotland’s Second City

Glasgow embodies Scotland’s rich history in every step. It’s a hot tourist spot not just for history buffs, but also for architecture enthusiasts and even plant lovers.

Glasgow may be Scotland’s second city, but it might be the most important tourist attraction in the country. It’s rich in history, art exhibits, and gorgeous buildings and views.

Everything is on display in such a way that the famously terrible Scottish weather shouldn’t ruin your trip. Check out some of the most popular tourist attractions in Glasgow.

1.   Visit the Glasgow Cathedral

There’s a good reason why any Glasgow sightseeing list starts with the 12th century Glasgow Cathedral. It’s the city’s most important landmark and historic site.

What makes it eye-catching is its clear lines and having no unnecessary ornamentation. Yet, it’s gorgeous and complex, truly an architectural gem.

You can go on a guided tour or visit it on your own. Either way is great. as it’s also free of charge. What makes your visit even better is that it’s right next to another top Glasgow attraction.

2. Tour the Necropolis

If you’re a fan of Victorian gothic scenery, the Glasgow Necropolis is a must-see. This garden cemetery spans some 37 acres featuring gorgeous memorial stones and buildings. Not only that, but it also features various sculptures by famous local artists.

Walking tours are available here, too. And the view goes beyond Celtic motifs, as there are paths with open views of the city and the cathedral.

3. Visit the Museum of Religious Life and Art

The St. Mungo Museum is another top Glasgow destination. It’s near Glasgow Cathedral so it’s easy to add to your itinerary. Along with exhibits of world religions and various related practices, there are other exciting things for you to see here.

The museum displays Hindu statues and Egyptian mummies, among others, and also has an outdoor Buddhist garden. Commissioned in 1989, it’s a rather new building. Yet, it’s also close to the oldest house in Glasgow, the Provand’s Lordship. As such, it also offers a nice comparison of architectural styles.

4. Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, open since 1901, is another one of the top tourist attractions in the city. It’s even as popular, if not more so than the cathedral.

This museum looks amazing from the outside and hosts many impressive galleries on the inside. The majority of the paintings are French impressionism, but there are plenty of other unique art displays as well.

It’s no wonder art lovers flock to Glasgow each year.

5. Tour the Science Centre

Once you’re done with taking in the history in the old part of town, a trip to the Glasgow Science Centre provides a great contrast. It’s located on the waterfront area and boasts a hull-style construction.

The museum offers many exhibits of technology, human health, and even laboratory stations. It’s a hands-on experience that not many other museums offer, making it great for educational purposes and recreation.

Furthermore, you can also take a trip to the nearby planetarium. The Glasgow Tower, a freely-rotating tower, is also found nearby. However, it’s not open as often as other attractions.

6. Visit the Glasgow Botanic Gardens

If you get tired of architecture and museums, the botanic garden should offer a nice change of pace. The garden is home to the Kibble Palace, which is a massive glasshouse. It’s also among the biggest in the UK and it houses many rare orchids, as well as other exotic African, South American, and Eastern plants.

The garden has outdoor trails and also many greenhouses with unique environments. You can also see Victorian sculptures surrounded by plants here, which make for amazing sights. And if you’re tired of walking, you could always relax and take it all in while on the tearoom’s patio.

7. Check Out the Winter Garden Conservatory

The conservatory is part of the Glasgow Green. This park is a historic spot, as it’s one of the oldest parks in the city. It’s also very close to the city center and makes for a nice stroll.

You can see many subtropical and tropical plants in the conservatory. Not only that, but the park also features some historical exhibits from the 18th to the 20th century.

8. Take a Loud Ride

If there ever was a time when you could learn more about the bagpipe, this is it. Glasgow is home to the National Piping Centre and houses the Museum of Piping. It also hosts lessons and courses, as well as the venue for the World Pipe Ban Championship in August.

You can learn the history of the instrument, listen to different samples, and look at very old memorabilia. And if you’re a performer, it’s a great place to buy modern supplies.

9. Take a Tiny Tour of the Lighthouse

This is not your traditional lighthouse attraction. While it offers two great panoramic views of the city, it also houses art and design exhibitions all year round. And there is even a historic exhibit at the Mack Centre.

The tower is easy to access for everyone, as you can take either the helical staircase or the lift to reach the top.

10. Get Your Dose of Soccer

Soccer, the king of sports in Scotland, is well represented. The National Stadium down at Hampden features tours of the stands and, on some days, you can step onto the pitch.

This stadium also has a museum where you can check out a massive memorabilia exhibit. Part of their collection includes the old Scottish Cup. It’s known as the oldest surviving trophy of the sport in the world.

11. Watch a Movie at the Glasgow Film Theatre

The Glasgow Film Theatre is Scotland’s first true arthouse cinema. The city’s last movie theater of its kind, it’s worth a trip and a movie ticket if you like foreign-language flicks and documentaries.

But it’s also worth paying a visit just for the experience. That’s because the old retro interior and exterior architecture are well-preserved and truly one-of-a-kind.

12. Sample Some Whiskey

You can’t end a trip to Glasgow without sampling some fine whiskey.

While the Clydeside Distillery is one of the newest in the city, it’s also a facility that you can tour. Here, you’ll see how whiskey and artisan chocolate go from factory to shelves.

Best of all, you can sample a bit of both to end the tour on a high note.

Don’t Forget Your Umbrella

Scotland sees plenty of rain, so definitely start your tour with an umbrella. That said, many of the tourist hotspots are indoors so bad weather shouldn’t ruin your trip.

The city has many historic sites and architectural gems for you to see, as well as premium accommodations at the best Glasgow hotels.

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