Los Angeles is an enormous city that spreads out in every direction for as far as the eye can see (or until it hits the ocean). And across all of that space is a lot of great food, art, sights, and sounds to enjoy.

Five days is the perfect amount of time to spend in LA in order to see the best tourist spots, natural splendour, and electric neighbourhoods. Here is how you should spend 5 days in Los Angeles.

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How to Get Around LA

As we’ve already mentioned, LA is big. Really big. And unlike other metropolises like London and Tokyo, Los Angeles is a city of roads and cars. There is a subway but it’s really underdeveloped. If you want to get around easily during your 5 days in Los Angeles, you’ll need to be on the road. Here’s how to get around LA easily.

Uber/Lyft in LA

Constantly relying on Uber or Lyft to get you from place to place over the course of 5 days in Los Angeles sounds expensive, but it actually isn’t. To bring up London and Tokyo again, cities like those are renowned for their expensive car and taxi services. LA is different.

We’re assuming the cheapness of Uber in LA is down to its popularity. There aren’t many alternatives and it cannot be overstated just how spread out Los Angeles is. If you look at Google Maps and think a place looks within walking distance, it probably isn’t. You need a car.

The best option for getting around Los Angeles, therefore, is Uber or Lyft. Each trip is a necessity and an affordable one.

Speaking from personal experience, we were terrified and unprepared for the size of LA and how much we would have to rely on Uber and Lyft for getting around. We thought the costs would pile up but the reality turned out to surprise us.

Uber really is affordable and you can lean on it while you’re spending 5 days in Los Angeles.

Because of its popularity, Uber is also quick and efficient. You’ll get into some fun chats with drivers; you won’t be waiting long for a ride; you can rely on it to get you around quickly and affordably.

LA Metro & Bus

If you’d like to save some money and get around using the public transport system in then we’d highly recommend picking up a TAP card. They are easily available at TAP machines located within the bus or subway stations and work across the bus and metro system. Just load up your money at the machine. 

You can use the Metro Planner to plan your journey or Google Maps.
There are three types of metro buses in LA, the orange one which makes frequent stops at major attractions and spots around the city, the red rapid buses which make fewer stops but are much quicker, and the express blue buses which are typically for commuters.

The metro train includes two subway lines and four light-rail lines with the red line being the most useful for tourists (here are the lines). You tap your card before getting on the train and will be charged a regular fare of  $1.75 for a two hour journey with unlimited transfer.

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Hiring a Car in LA

Hiring a car in Los Angeles won’t be for everyone. If you’re a US or Canadian citizen, you’ll be used to the roads and far less intimidated by the idea. If you’re European, like us, hiring a car in LA might not be something you have the confidence to do.

Speaking from experience, it’s actually very chill and easy. You go to a local car hire place, like you would anywhere else, and hire a car for however long you want it.

We haven’t driven in LA specifically but we have driven in Portland, Oregon and New York. Driving in the US is fun and exciting. The roads are wide open and drivers are a lot more polite than British drivers.

Because of the sheer size of Los Angeles, travelling by car is your best option. That means either getting several Uber lifts per day or hiring your own car. The choice is yours.

Read More: A Native Angeleno’s Guide to the Best 9 Bookstores in LA

LA Itinerary Day 1: Relax on Venice Beach

Venice is one of the chillest neighbourhoods in LA. It’s a great place to stay if you want to start each of your 5 days in Los Angeles with good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and the sound of the waves.

Even if you don’t base yourself in Venice, Venice Beach is still the first place you should head, in order to see LA at its coolest.

Venice Beach has plenty to see and enjoy. Start off by walking the canals and seeing how the eccentric residents of Venice live. From there, head to the iconic Venice sign and tuck into Menotti’s Coffee Stop for a top-up. This coffee shop is nestled right beneath the sign.

From here, wander over to Muscle Beach and enjoy the vibes. Sunbathers, skaters, dancers, lads playing basketball and volleyball. It’s exactly how you imagine it and the atmosphere is both relaxing and electrifying.

On Venice Beach, you’ll find an awesome vintage clothing store by the name of Gotta Have It, as well as one of LA’s coolest bookstores: Small World Books. This bookstore is vast and loaded with some of the best indie books from indie presses (US-based and beyond!)

From Muscle Beach, wander south towards Venice Fishing Pier. Before you do, however, grab a slice to walk with from Big Daddy’s Pizza. Or, if you prefer sandwiches, head next door to Banh Mi Ba Nam for some outstanding Vietnamese banh mi.

Where to Eat in Venice Beach

Aside from the aforementioned Big Daddy’s Pizza and Banh Mi Ba Nam, which are both perfect for lunch, your best spot for dinner is Mao’s Kitchen. This is Venice Beach’s iconic Chinese restaurant/takeout.

If you’ve never had Chinese food in the US before (or even if you have), you are in for a treat here. Mao’s Kitchen is a treasure trove of the most sweet and indulgent Chinese food in Los Angeles, and a must-try for visitors to Venice Beach. It’s also right next to the famous Venice sign.

Where to Stay in Venice Beach

The best hotel in Venice Beach is, without a doubt, The Venice Beach House. Built in 1911, this is what the person who invented the world “haven” was picturing.

Staying at The Venice Beach House is an absolute pleasure. The rooms are decorated with love; the lighting and aesthetics are designed to soothe and nourish. Breakfast at this hotel will be the healthiest and most delicious meal you’ll ever enjoy.

The Venice Beach House is also situated right behind Venice Fishing Pier, a 30-second walk from the sand. If you’ve got 5 days in Los Angeles, this is where you need to stay, especially if you want to be right on the beach.

LA Itinerary Day 2: Visit Echo Park and Do Some Sightseeing

We’d recommend basing yourself near Echo Park for the rest of your 5 days in Los Angeles. The area’s got a great vibe, open and relaxed, highly walkable with lots of local independent places, murals, vintage shops, and galleries to enjoy.

It’s also convenient to get everywhere in LA from Echo Park, whereas being based at Venice Beach for the whole week will have you spending a lot of the time using transport. If you’ve got 5 days in Los Angeles, this is a good central location.

Morning

There are some great cafes to get breakfast at near Echo Park. We loved Stories Books and Cafe on Sunset Boulevard for bagels, great coffee, and some times with the books. They’re open from 10am-8pm daily.

For an earlier start, Bloom and Plume on W. Temple Street is open from 8am, also has a great coffee and fabulous avocado toast with flower petals on. Follow up with a stroll around Echo Park, or maybe hop on a peddle boat, before getting started with the day.

Afternoon

We were excited to see the architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall so headed straight there to get pictures, you may also want to catch a show depending on your free time as this is the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, presenting the best in classical music, contemporary music, world music and jazz.

From there it’s an easy two-minute walk to The Broad, LA’s famous art museum where you can experience Yayoi Kusama’s infinity room (though you will have to pick up a ticket and wait your turn for this one) and see other famous modern art by the likes of Andy Warhol.

Tip: From here it’s an easy detour (10-20 mins walk) if you’d like to see Little Tokyo or Chinatown (which you definitely should if you have 5 days in Los Angeles) and pick up a snack.

Late afternoon

From The Broad it’s an eight minutes walk to South Broadway where you can see some of LA’s other famous spots like the Bradbury Building which was famously used as a set in the original Bladerunner Film.

Built in 1983, it’s a must for architecture lovers with its iron framework and Victorian gothic vibes. You can step inside to take pictures and climb the stairs alongside the other people doing exactly the same.

A few minutes walk from the Bradbury Building is The Last Bookstore, a favourite amongst book lovers and Instagrammers thanks to its imaginative bookish displays that encourage photography and the fact it’s covered in local art.

It’s California’s largest used and new bookstore and has a genuinely gorgeous interior with nooks and themed rooms to explore. You’ll also find records and a seating area to relax in after wandering this huge book haven.

Tip: The Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk starts around the corner from the bookstore if you want to see local galleries, artist studio’s, as well as handicrafts and food trucks.

Dinner

We’re in our element at a food hall and we’re happy to say that the Grand Central Market does not disappoint. It’s got a long history being a downtown landmark since 1917 and regularly hosts events and movie nights.

From exceptional Chinese food, Japanese bento, to tacos, grill, stonebaked pizzas and more there’s absolutely something for everyone here with indoor and outdoor seating to meet back at and enjoy. Check out their website for events and vendors. 

Where to stay in Echo Park:

There are plenty of Airbnbs to choose from in Echo Park or nearby Silver Lake which is what we went for, if you prefer a hotel then The Lexmar is within easy walking distance of the park and other attractions and if you’re looking for something fancy then the gorgeous Millennium Biltmore might be what you’re looking for.

LA Itinerary Day 3: Have a Day Trip at an LA Theme Park or Botanical Garden

There are quite a few day trips from LA to choose from if you have 5 days in Los Angeles, and each one offers something fun and cultural for you to enjoy. It’s up to you which one you choose, based on what you love, but here’s what’s on offer and what you can expect.

Universal Studios LA

Universal Studios is easy to get to, located just north of Hollywood, and you can either drive there yourself or take an Uber to get there.

What you’ll find when you arrive is a fantastic theme park, packed with a full day’s worth of awesome things to do. Roller coasters and other rides, based on Hollywood blockbusters; a full recreation of Hogwarts Castle and Hodsmead for you to explore; restaurants and gift shops galore.

Check out our full guide to Universal Studios LA to find out how exactly to spend one of your 5 days in Los Angeles at Universal Studios.

This is certainly one of the quickest and easiest LA day trips on offer.

Disneyland

Disneyland is outside of LA and situated in Anaheim, Orange County, it’s also the original Disney Park meaning it’s a major bucket list destination for a lot of people. As the park is much smaller than Disney World (and many other Disneyland Parks) it’s very walkable and ideal for a day trip.

You can also experience the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge which is a must for fans of the franchise, and we, personally, will take any chance to meet Kylo Ren. We’d recommend picking up a FastPass to speed things up through the day.

How to get to Disneyland from LA

You can reach the park by bus, train, or car. We’d recommend leaving early to try and avoid rush hour. The Metro bus’ 460 line direct to Disneyland entrance leaves from downtown at Flower and 7th Streets. It’s a two-hour ride that costs around $2.

The train, leaving from Union Station, takes you as far as Fullerton Amtrak Station where you will then need to catch a bus to the park. The total journey is also two hours. A car journey or minibus is much quicker.

Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens 

If theme parks aren’t your thing then we highly recommend a visit to Huntingdon Library. Once the home of Henry Edwards Huntington and his wife Arabella Duval Huntington, this is one of the most stunning Japanese and Chinese inspired gardens to visit in the US and that’s without exploring the art and literature collection inside.

There are 120 acres of grounds open to the public including themed gardens like the English Shakespeare Garden and the Desert Garden with impressive cacti and succulents growing.

While many of the six million books are reserved for researchers, there are some real beauties on display to the public including a Gutenberg Bible and the earliest known edition of Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales. The gallery is equally as notable, in particular, for its British paintings including works by Turner, Blake, and 

Tip: After Huntington, explore Pasadena and enjoy gems like the Tea Rose Garden (which serves fifty types of tea) and Vroman’s bookstore which is the largest in Southern California.

How to get to The Huntington

Located near Pasadena in San Marino, it’s an easy and quick day trip from downtown LA, taking just twenty minutes by car or Uber or an hour on public transport (which includes a twenty-minute walk from the station). 

LA Itinerary Day 4: Hollywood, Museums & Downtown 

Now, it’s time to explore Hollywood — one of the biggest reasons anyone spends 5 days in Los Angeles — after getting in some local culture at the best LA museums and galleries.

Morning: LACMA

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is one of the most impressive places in all of California. Crossing six thousand years of art from every part of our planet, LACMA hosts a collection of more than a hundred thousand art pieces.

The exhibitions at LACMA change frequently, giving you every reason to visit frequently to see what has changed and what’s new. LA has a really fantastic art scene, and LACMA plays an important role in that so make sure you visit during your 5 days in Los Angeles.

Tip: If you want breakfast and coffee near LACMA, visit Coffee Attic.

Afternoon: Hollywood

We all have our own ideas of what Hollywood is. For many people, Hollywood is an idea; a name given to the American cinema industry. And while that’s true, it’s also just a neighbourhood with plenty of iconic sights to see. With 5 days in Los Angeles, Hollywood is an absolute must.

Drive or take an Uber to Hollywood Boulevard and take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This is a length of Hollywood Boulevard paved with stars; within each star is the name of a celebrity from throughout American history.

It’s exciting to stroll down this stretch and stumble across the star of a beloved celebrity. The first star we saw upon exiting out Uber for the first time was Charlie Chaplin. It’s a simple but satisfying buzz that really stays with you, given the cultural history of the place and the people immortalised there.

In the Hollywood area, you’ll also find places like the Capitol Records Building, Hollywood Wax Museum, and the absolutely iconic TCL Chinese Theatre, the place where new Hollywood movies have been premiering for decades. If you’re a cinema history buff, you can take a fantastic behind-the-scenes walking tour of Hollywood.

North of the Hollywood neighbourhood, you’ll find the Hollywood sign, which can be seen from the streets of Hollywood but also easily reached by booking a guided tour hike.

Tip: If you need refreshments during your afternoon of exploring Hollywood, head to Sunset Boulevard and get coffee and snack at: Groundwork Coffee Co.

Evening: Griffith Observatory

Not far from the Hollywood sign, tucked into the hills of Griffith Park, is the legendary Griffith Observatory. Views of Los Angeles from here are mesmerising, particularly in the evening, and the observatory itself offers visitors a planetarium and telescopes which you can try out for yourself.

The hiking trails surrounding the observatory provide plenty of sights, including the Bird Sanctuary and more wonderful views from Glendale Peak.

Where to Eat

One of the best restaurants in Los Angeles is easily Yuko Kitchen. They currently have two locations in LA: one in Wilshire, and the other in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA), and their menu offers vegan and gluten free options.

The Japanese-inspired menu mostly consists of delicious rice bowls and udon, as well as salads, sides, and a huge host of cookies. Yuko Kitchen is a happy, healthy, delightful place to eat in LA that we can’t recommend highly enough.

LA Itinerary Day 5: Get to Know LA Your Way

If you only have 5 days in Los Angeles, there are going to be certain things you’ll want to prioritise. Everything we’ve mentioned for days 1-4 are essential things to do in Los Angeles, but it’s up to you how you want to spend your final day.

Here are some of our favourite destinations in LA. Most of them can be enjoyed for free so it’s great if you’ve blown your budget over the course of the trip. You can choose how to spend the last of your 5 days in Los Angeles, but there are all our biggest suggestions.

Take a food tour

California is known for its food culture. Some of the most healthy and delicious food options in the United States can be found in LA. To really see the sheer breadth of delicious international flavours that LA has to offer, you need to take a food tour of LA.

This LA food tour will take you everywhere, from Korea Town to Little Tokyo, as well as the best restaurants in Glendale, Hollywood, and Santa Monica.

Visit the Getty Center

Like LACMA, the Getty Center is an incredible art institution with an impressive mission: to foster enjoyment and understanding of art, all art, from all around the world. The sheer scope and scale of what the Getty Center has to offer is jaw-dropping.

From local California art to the global history of art, the Getty Center offers visitors a unique experience of visual media. If you’re excited to visit the galleries and museums of Los Angeles, make sure to head to the Getty Center.

Read More: Discover the Best Tattoo Artists in LA

Relax at Santa Monica Pier

If you want the last of your 5 days in Los Angeles to be both chill and exciting, take a trip to Santa Monica Pier. It’s here that you’ll find the Pacific Park amusement park, as well as arcades, pubs, shops, restaurants, and an amazing 1920s carousel.

Hike Runyon Canyon

Up for one final hike before you leave LA? Runyon Canyon Park offers a great alternative to Griffith Park. The Runyon Canyon trail provides outstanding views of Hollywood, spreading out into the rest of LA in the distance. It gives visitors an amazing final look at Los Angeles before they leave.

Wander Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard is enormous, but the stretch that you’re looking for is where Book Soup can be found. This iconic LA bookstore hosts regular events and is located a few doors down (and across the street) from the famous nightlife spot Whisky a Go Go. This stretch of Sunset Boulevard is gorgeous and well worth a stroll before leaving LA.

Explore Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive small stretch of road in Beverly Hills which is defined by its luxury (and that scene from Pretty Woman). The best and most expensive shopping and dining experiences in LA can be found here so, if you’ve got some leftover cash burning a hole in your pocket, spend your last afternoon in LA browsing the stores of Rodeo Drive.

We hope you enjoyed this 5 day LA itinerary, if you enjoyed reading then please consider sharing.

Tokyo is more than a city; it’s an overwhelming landscape home to the world’s finest cuisine, quirkiest districts, kindest people, and most ambitious art and architecture. It isn’t easy to know where to start!

Tokyo inspires visitors to be adventurous and discover its strangest secrets. It cannot be conquered, which makes it all the more fun to try. There are so many unique things to do in Tokyo; all you have to know is where to look.

Don’t forget a JR pass if you’re planning on leaving Tokyo and taking some amazing day trips.

21 Unique Things to Do in Tokyo

We were lucky, having lived in Tokyo for a while, to be able to try most of the activities on this list or speak to friends who had, but even just picking and choosing a few will leave you with fond memories of your trip to Japan. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Japan, look no further!

We recommend learning more about the benefits of miles and points to make your trip to Tokyo more affordable.

Don’t forget to check out our three-day itinerary for help planning your trip.

1) Immerse yourself in animation at the Ghibli Museum

When planning your trip, and looking for the best places to visit in Tokyo, the Ghibli Museum will probably be at the top of your list.

And so it should be! Seeing Miyazaki’s work come to life in this incredible space is nothing short of incredible and one of the most beloved unique things to do in Tokyo.

Located on the western side of Tokyo, the Ghibli Museum enables you to get a closer look at how animation comes to life and see cells, sculptures, and toys from the famous films.

Tickets have to be bought well in advance so definitely one to plan earlier rather than later. You can purchase tickets and get them pre-delivered to your hotel here.

2) Capture amazing views of the city from Tokyo Tower

The iconic Tokyo Tower is easily one of the most photographed buildings Tokyo, it’s iconic red Eiffel Tower style is difficult to miss since it stands at 333 meters tall making it larger than its French counterpart.

The communication and observation tower offers unbeatable views over Tokyo making this the perfect place to get those epic shots of the city. At night the tower is lit up and a beautiful sight in itself.

You can also capture the whole city from the Tokyo Skytree. Tickets for the tower can be bought there, make sure you take your passport.

3) Go wild at one of Japan’s top theme parks

If there’s one thing Japanese people love it’s their theme parks, and Tokyo itself has two amazing parks to enjoy, including the world’s only Disney Sea —bwhich is actually the better of the two parks if you have to choose.

The Disneyland itself is quite small but has all of the usual rides meet Disney characters fun.

Taking a trip to Universal Studios is very possible for the day since it’s just two hours to Osaka on the bullet train, there you’ll find the incredible Harry Potter World and get the chance to see the huge Hogwarts castle up close.

Find Disney tickets and transfers here. A visit to one of Japan’s many theme parks is one of the most memorable unique things to do in Japan.

4) Go museum hopping in Ueno Park

Sort of a one-stop culture stop in Tokyo, Ueno Park not only offers a vast green haven within the city complete with shrines and a boating lake but also numerous museums to explore.

Options include The Tokyo National Museum, the oldest Japanese national museum bursting with historical treasures, several art museums including the notable Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum and the entertaining Science and Technology Museum.

There really is something for everyone. Round off your experience with a snack from one of the many street vendors within the park.

5) Explore Asakusa and the ancient temple Senso-ji

Known as the historic neighbourhood of Tokyo, exploring Asakusa is a must for people visiting Tokyo. Partly due to the impressive ancient temple of Sensoji with its iconic red lantern.

This is a perfect way to explore the Shinto and Buddhist philosophies at the heart of the Japanese way of life. On the way to the temple you can explore Nakamise shopping street, a real step back in time.

This bustling ancient market sells everything from street food to souvenirs. It’s popular to rent a kimono in this area since it oozes old Japan at every turn. So, if you’re a history buff wondering where to stay in Tokyo, there’s no better place than Asakusa for unique things to do in Tokyo.

You can see all of Tokyo’s major shrines and temples with this city tour.

6) Get lost in otaku culture in Akihabara

There’s no denying that a big draw to Japan for many is its anime and video-game culture and the nerd’s first stop to Japan is usually Tokyo’s buzzing electric town: Akihabara.

For otaku and nerds like us, there are no better places to visit in Tokyo than Akihabara. Full of unique things to do in Tokyo, there’s just so much to do there.

Discover themed cafes to video game bars, and huge department stores packed with retro games, plushies, and anime memorabilia. Since this is electric town, this is also where you come if you’re looking for a new camera or the latest phone or Nintendo console.

With big lights, giant billboards with anime girls on Akihabara never gets old and needs to be seen to be believed.

If you’re a proud otaku like us, and you’re looking for where to stay in Tokyo, Akihabara is your haven. For more nerdy places to visit in Tokyo, consider also checking out Nakano Broadway.

Read More: Check out our Tokyo Neighborhood Guide to find out more about Akihabara.

7) Embrace the Kawaii on Takeshita-dori

Harajuku is easily one of the best places to visit in Tokyo. It’s an iconic Tokyo destination, forever a draw for the alternative and fun youth of Japan.

From the quirky fashion to everything cute and colourful, a day on Takeshita-dori (the main shopping street opposite the famous Harajuku Station) is best spent eating weird and wonderful desserts and buying kawaii accessories.

Lined with shops, boutiques, and cafes this is easily one of the most fun streets just full of unique things to do in Tokyo. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures of the crazy fashion choices that you’ll inevitably see.

If you’re looking for a great food/culture tour here then check out my friend’s Foodie Tours Japan, everything from instagrammable food to quirky places you’d never find otherwise.

Read More: Otaku’s 24 Hour Guide to Tokyo

8) Learn the way of the samurai at the Samurai Museum

The famous Samurai of the Sengoku period come to life in this fantastic museum nestled in the heart of Shinjuku. You’ll be taken on a tour through history and see everything from genuine samurai armour and weapons to paintings and live performances from trained samurai.

All while having a detailed explanation of everything you’re seeing from start to end. You can even get dressed up in armour and capture those important memories.

If you’re looking for a museum that’s a bit different, this is absolutely one of the most unique places to visit in Tokyo. Get your entrance ticket here. Side note: if you’re looking at where to stay in Tokyo, you can’t do better than Shinjuku. It has samurai.

Read More: To learn more about samurai take a day trip to magical Kanazawa

9) Experience art in a revolutionary new way at TeamLab Borderless

A relatively new experience in Tokyo, it’s unsurprisingly taken off in a big way. Located on Odaiba island, this art installation offers a borderless experience where you wander through light-based art scenes.

The space around you reacts to your presence and touch and the colours are truly out of this world. One of the top places to capture genuinely unique and gorgeous Instagram photos in Tokyo while also trying something new. Grab your ticket here.

10) Step Back in Time at the Imperial Palace and Gardens

Tours of the Imperial Palace grounds must be booked in advance, but the Imperial Palace East Garden is open to visitors year-round.

Located on the site of a former Edo castle complete with stones walls and a moat, the grounds serve as a place for Tokyoites to escape modern busy life but also offer a chance to take a step back in time.

On the other side of the moat, Chidori-ga-fuchi is a popular cherry blossom gazing spot.

11) Gotta catch ‘em all at the Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo

Since the first whispers of a potential Pokémon Center opening in Tokyo, the hype around the world’s first Pokémon dedicated store was huge.

No nation does toys and games like Japan, and Pokémon is arguably the biggest and most long-lasting global craze in history.

Stepping inside the megastore for the first time, in the heart of Tokyo is an experience like no other and whether you’re into the craze or not, it’s hard to ignore the giant Pokémon Centres drawing in huge crowds.

Floor to ceiling plushies, unique Japanese souvenirs, photo ops, and a Pokémon Café are just some of the many temptations inside.

12) Lose yourself in nature at Shinjuku Gyoen

Despite Tokyo’s many great parks, escaping into nature isn’t always easy. Just a short walk from Shinjuku station, Shinjuku Gyeon is like a cross between a botanical garden and a park.

It features several themed areas like the English Landscape Garden, the French Landscape Garden and the traditional Japanese Landscape Garden area with bridges and a teahouse.

Aside from in the cherry blossom season when it’s particularly busy, Shinjuku Gyeon generally remains a wonderfully relaxed area to stroll.

Read more about Japan: Best Books to Read Before Visiting Japan

13) Have fun on the entertainment island of Odaiba

This beautiful man-made island in the heart of Tokyo is Japan’s answer to California’s Silicon Valley. Tech capital of Tokyo, Odaiba offers a selection of entertainment and tech-based activities, such as the interactive art gallery TeamLab Borderless.

Besides tech, Odaiba is also a beautiful island to explore, occasionally playing host to outdoor fun like a summer beer festival. The beach and waterfront area truly comes alive in the Summer season as shoppers evacuate the various malls on the island for some fresh air and sun.

Odaiba even sports a giant Ferris wheel and its own perfect replica of the Statue of Liberty, which is a wonderfully Japanese thing to do.

14) Make your way through Golden Gai

This famous little area, tucked away in Shinjuku, is a collection of narrow alleyways famously lit with Japanese lanterns at night.

For an epic and very different night out in Tokyo, this maze of 200 smoky izakayas and small restaurants make a change from the chic cocktail sky-high bars Tokyo is famous for.

It has mostly been taken over by visitors in recent years, but you’ll still encounter the odd locals-only signage or chilly reception now and then.

Also, most are so small they can only accommodate a handful of customers, which is the reasoning behind the hefty seating charges you’ll find.

From beer to whiskey and several sake bars on offer here this is a traditional experience that needs to be had. Look out for English menus posted outside, to ensure you are welcome.

Take a fantastic food and drink tour of the area.

15) Experience sumo culture at Ryogoku Sumo

Another ancient aspect of Japanese culture that is a must-see for visitors to Tokyo. Getting to see a sumo match Ryogoku Kokugikan isn’t easy or cheap and getting tickets as early as possible is a good idea.

And, of course, it’s one of the best and most unique of things to do in Tokyo, bar none! There are some alternatives, however, to make your sumo experience cheaper and easier.

Sumo practice matches, for example, are usually a lot more accessible to the public, cheaper, and equally as dramatic.

The Ryogoku district is also home to a large number of little known historical landmarks and sumo stables, some of which might let you watch the early morning practices for free.

Don’t miss the Sumo Museum to learn about the history of the sport. See their official website for more details.

16) Enjoy seafood at Tsukiji Fish Market (Now Toyosu Market)

Even though the inner market of Tsukiji Market closed on October 6, 2018 and moved to a new site in Toyosu you can still enjoy Tsukiji’s outer market and enjoy fresh seafood food at the local restaurants (which, in my opinion, was the best bit anyway).

The chance to see the tuna auction is now in Toyusu but, arguably the more fun eating part is still very much present. Tsukiji Market is still one of the best places to visit in Tokyo for enjoying amazing street food, seeing sushi and sashimi-making in action, and devouring some of the best seafood on the entire planet!

17) Visit The Art Triangle in Roppongi

Immersing yourself in The Art Triangle is one of the best ways to get involved in the modern art culture of Tokyo.

Consisting of The National Art Centre, the Suntory Museum of Art, and the wonderful Mori Art Museum which also features The Sun café and The Moon restaurant plus beautiful views of the city from the inside.

Each of these astounding galleries features notable contemporary art from around Japan and has regular revolving exhibitions from famous local and international artists. When considering where to stay in Tokyo, Roppongi is a fine choice for visitors looking for a bit of dynamism and bustle.

Read more: Tokyo Art and Culture Guide

18) Go Boutique Shopping on Omotesando Hills

Fast becoming the place to be in Tokyo, Omotesando area blends with Harajuku and could be described as its refined big sister. You’ll find high fashion, designer quirky clothes but also an abundance of artisan coffee shops and excellent restaurants on Omotesando Hills.

An easy way to make your way through is to start at Omotesando Plaza and make your way towards Shibuya. Particularly beautiful at night since the shops essentially put on light shows, this whole area is designed to capture your attention, and it works.

Omotesando is our favourite place to be based in Tokyo. Find some options in our Tokyo hotel guide

19) Experience the future in a Robot Restaurant

One of the far quirkier and, by far, most memorable and unique places to visit in Tokyo, and well worth it regardless of how much of a tourist attraction it has become.

A quirky extravaganza of Japanese invention, you’re essentially dining in a light show while watching anime characters’ wrestle with cyborgs. It’s larger than life and a truly memorable experience. It really has to be seen to be believed. The food isn’t bad either! Grab your show tickets here.

20) Explore Shibuya

Shibuya is a microcosm of everything modern in Japan’s capital, making it one of the must-explore places to visit in Tokyo.It only takes one look up into the onslaught of neon and tall buildings to know that you’ve truly arrived in today’s Tokyo.

Apart from shopping, dining, and watching movies, there are some key things to see in Shibuya.

As most know by now, Shibuya Crossing is known as the busiest pedestrian space in the world in terms of foot traffic. You’ve likely seen many time-lapse videos of the area but nothing can prepare you for the real Shibuya experience.

Don’t forget to visit the legendary statue of Hachikō, located right outside the Shibuya subway station or pop downstairs into the Tokyu Food Festival to experience an underground food paradise.

Shibuya hides some of the best restaurants in Japan, particularly ramen restaurants, as well as the most unique things to do in Tokyo. So don’t miss out.

21) Go up to the Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory (at Shibuya Scramble Square)

Japan’s newest observation deck, the Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory, stands at 230 metres tall providing a dramatic 360 view of Shibuya. Look down on one of the world’s most photographed sights: ‘The Scramble’, where over a thousand people cross five main roads at the same time.

Getting a birds-eye view of this spectacular scene makes it all the more impressive as countless people are reduced to a mass of dots.

You’ll be able to see other famous landmarks like the Tokyo Skytee, Yoyogi park, and even Mount Fuji. The 47-floor tower also features shopping, cafes, and digitalised gallery of art, making for an immersive Tokyo experience.

Read More: Buy amazing snacks while you’re in Tokyo with this list

Delft is the place where William of Orange died (more on that below!)

With so much art and history here, there are so many wonderful things to do in Delft.

Essential Things to Do in Delft

Delft is the resting place of both William of Orange and legendary Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer.

It is most famously the home of Delftware and the Delft Blue style of blue and white pottery. One single manufacturer remains in the city.

That aside, the architecture, coffee, and food culture of Delft is all also outstanding. Here are the essential things to do in Delft.

Given the compact size of the city, all of this can be done in a single day in Delft.

Vermeer Centrum Delft

Johannes Vermeer was one of the most celebrated and accomplished Dutch artists of all time. He was a baroque painter who did things with light that few could ever match.

Most famous for his Girl With the Pearl Earring portrait, Vermeer excelled at depicting interior scenes that capture ordinary life, speaking to the beauty and complexity of simple moments.

Having both lived and died in Delft, the city is home to a place called the Vermeer Centrum.

The Vermeer Centrum is a museum dedicated to Vermeer’s art, life, and the art that he went on to inspire.

There are no original pieces here; most of Vermeer’s art is shared between galleries in The Hague and Amsterdam. The Vermeer Centrum is a museum, not a gallery.

That said, it remains one of the essential things to do in Delft. Here, you will learn about how his work evolved over time, how he played with light, and even the hidden messages in his work.

A tour of the museum culminates in a celebration of modern art inspired by Vermeer’s works and techniques. It is smart and beautiful.

Read More: The Cutest Cafes in The Hague

Royal Delft

Located a short walk south from the city centre, right beside the Delft University of Technology, is the last remaining manufacturer of Delft Blue pottery: Royal Delft.

Approaching its 400th birthday, Royal Delft is a living, breathing legacy of Dutch art and tradition.

The earthenware pottery of Delft Blue is legendary across the world, and here at Royal Delft you can see it being designed and produced first-hand.

You’ll also learn about its origins, which can be traced back to Ancient China and the trade between there and Western Europe.

There is so much skill, tradition, technique, design, and history, to learn on a visit to Royal Delft. It’s a beautiful space with so much to teach every visitor.

And, of course, there is original Delft Blue pottery for sale if you want to take some home with you.

Of all the amazing things to do in Delft, a visit to Royal Delft is absolutely essential!

Museum Prinsenhof Delft

This building has an incredible history. Original built to be the Saint Agatha monastery, it was the last home of William of Orange, and the place where he was shot and killed.

Eventually, the building became the Museum Prinsenhof (Prince’s Court), and it now exists as a museum dedicated to the history of The Netherlands.

Here, we follow the life and achievements of William of Orange, and see the creation of the Dutch Republic.

What better place than this to explore the nation’s history? The bullet holes even remain in the walls where William died.

For fans of Dutch art and history, the Museum Prinsenhof is one of the absolute essential things to do in Delft.

Art Super Delft

A visit to Art Super Delft (Kunstsuper Delft) is one of the lesser-known things to do in Delft.

This unique art space is a gallery in which local contemporary art from artists of the city can exhibit their art.

You’ll find everything from paintings and pottery to jewellery and knitwear. The coolest thing about it is that every single piece of art at Art Super Delft is for sale!

You can wander the gallery and admire the beauty and skill on display; the vision and creativity of local artists. And, if any of it takes your fancy, you can buy it!

This is such an exciting space to really celebrate contemporary art of every type.

While Delft is full of gift shops that sell merchandise inspired by classical art, one of the more unique things to do in Delft is to pick up an original piece from the Art Super!

Stadhuis Delft

Every city in The Netherlands — from The Hague to Rotterdam — has its own beautiful stadhuis (city hall), but the Stadhuis Delft stands above the rest in terms of its beauty.

At the heart of Delft is a market square that stands between the Stadhuis Delft and the Nieuwe Church, making for one of the most stunning city centres in Europe.

The Stadhuis Delft is a renaissance era building, built between 1618 and 1620, but it features a far older belfry tower that survived the burning of the previous city hall.

This belfry tower is a piece of mediaeval gothic architecture that dates back to 1300.

The contrast between this belfry tower and the renaissance architecture of the rest of the Stadhuis Delft makes for a very dramatic sight.

This is a really stellar place to simply stand and admire, especially as you browse the modern market of the town square.

Simply taking a step back and taking in the architectural splendour of this building is one of the best things to do in Delft.

Read More: Essential Dutch Novels

Nieuwe Kerk

The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) sits across the market square from the Stadhuis Delft.

It’s a splendid piece of gothic architecture that was constructed over a hundred years through the 15th Century. It is also exceptionally tall!

Aside from being a powerful and dominating piece of mediaeval gothic architecture, the Nieuwe Kerk is also the resting place of William of Orange.

Otherwise known as William the Silent, William of Orange led the Dutch revolt against the Spanish Habsburgs in the 16th Century, eventually leading to Dutch independence.

Celebrated as the founding father of The Netherlands, William of Orange is entombed in the Delft Nieuwe Kerk.

The Blue Heart of Delft

The Blue Heart of Delft is the city’s most unique piece of public art. While Delft has many statues to admire, seeing the Blue Heart is one of the essential things to do in Delft.

This beautiful sculpture, which stands very close to the Nieuwe Church, is a glistening piece of modern artwork that every visitor to Delft should get a few photos with.

It’s a piece of art that really celebrates the city’s love for its own art history, its pottery and paintings and unique artistic expression. A gorgeous bit of public art for all to enjoy.

Museum Paul Tétar van Elven

Compared to Escher, Vermeer, and van der Neer, Paul Tetar van Elven is a slightly less famous Dutch artist, but his home is absolutely worth visiting.

After he died, his home (by his own request) was turned into a museum, and not only to his own works but to the things he collected.

Paul Tetar van Elven was an avid collector of pottery, including Delft Blue but also earthenware from East Asia.

You’ll learn about his own art here, while also admiring his collections of pottery, art, and antiques.

For fans of 19th Century art and Dutch antiques, the Museum Paul Tetar van Elven is one of the best things to do in Delft.

Speldorado

Here’s one of the more niche and unique things to do in Delft — definitely not for everyone but, if you’re a fan of toys and games, you need to visit Speldorado.

Very simply, Speldorado is an expansive shop dedicated to toys, board games, and Lego! A wonderland for kids of all ages!

If you’re a board game collector, there will be something here to add to your collection. And if you love toys (as we do), you’ll be in heaven exploring Speldorado.

This is one of the most unique and charming spaces in Delft, and absolutely worth a visit for kids, nerds, and people who love to be happy.

Read More: The Best Tattoo Artists in Amsterdam

The Real Greek

After an afternoon of galleries, museums, and taking in the gorgeous architecture of Delft, nothing satisfies like good Greek food.

The Real Greek is located in the town centre, just behind the Stadhuis, and its staff are the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

This is such a great place to relax and enjoy a good meal at the end of a long day.

Delft has a lot of excellent restaurants, from Japanese to Spanish, but this one comes out on top when it comes to pure satisfaction for tired tourists.

The food culture of Delft is pretty great, and exploring the food scene is one of the best things to do in Delft, but you’ll be hard-pressed to beat The Real Greek.

While the beach and pier and beautiful, and the food is delicious; while the people are friendly and the streets are peaceful, nothing beats a good bookshop.

The Best Bookshops in The Hague

The Hague is a city of wonderful galleries, museums, restaurants, and beautiful bookshops. There’s so much art and literature to explore here.

This is your guide to the best and most beautiful bookshops in The Hague.

Stanza Bookshop

Located on the central street of Noordiende, just a few doors down from the city’s palace (and office of the king) is the charming and welcoming Stanza Bookshop.

Run by booksellers from different countries, Stanza is an international bookshop that sells new fiction and nonfiction in multiple languages, including English.

The wonderful booksellers at Stanza speak fluent English and are the most kind, considerate, and inclusive people you will meet in The Hague.

The shop itself has stunning window displays, a wide range of fresh new fiction, and a particular love for Japanese literature.

It’s a small space, cosy and compact and kind. The booksellers here will be more than happy to order in anything you’re after and chat with you about your favourite books and authors.

The location of this central bookshop is also fantastic, sitting at the heart of it all, amongst the city’s best cafes and restaurants.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Delft

Bookstor Cafe

Located directly opposite Stanza is another one of the best bookshops in The Hague: The Bookstor Cafe.

Open since 1921, Bookstor is a bookshop that doubles as a cafe. It’s a soothing space to relax, read, and work.

Sofas and armchairs, a conservatory at the back, potted plants, broad bookshelves, and books piled high. The aesthetics here are something else.

In the summer months, sit out on the street with a coffee and watch the world go by. Otherwise get cosy on a sofa inside with a book that took your interest.

On the book front, Bookstor specialises in anything and everything published by Penguin, so you’ll find many classics here.

And as for its food offerings, there are plenty of delicious baked things and some really excellent coffee options to enjoy.

Take a seat and work at your laptop for a while, browse the bookshelves, or just while away an hour reading in the corner. This is one of the most charming bookshops in The Hague.

American Book Center

This is one of the largest bookshops in The Hague. The American Book Center specialises in English language books from US and UK publishers.

When you first enter, you’ll find a selection of English language magazines lining the wall on your right.

Beyond that are the new bestsellers and recommendations from the shop’s booksellers.

Side note: bookseller recommendations are always one of the best parts of any bookshop, and it’s great to see them here.

From here, the bookshop opens up into a treasure trove of literature and nonfiction. Every category and genre you can imagine.

There’s an alcove of comics and manga that is decorated with posters and merchandise from various properties. Very enticing!

The sci-fi and fantasy section is especially broad, extending around the entire border of the shop. It snakes its way around the walls and covers everything you can imagine within those genres.

Amongst all the bookshops in The Hague, the American Book Center is probably the most extensive and impressive in terms of its size.

Mayflower Bookshop

Just a few doors down from the American Book Center is one of the most cosy and charming bookshops in The Hague.

Mayflower Bookshop is separated by Dutch language books on the right and English language books on the left. You’ll also find here a selection of new and used books, if you’re interested in digging for hidden treasure.

It’s a welcoming and friendly space with a warm vibe, with books stacked high and plenty of options for every kind of bookworm.

After dancing between the different bookshops of The Hague, Mayflower also seems to often have the lowest prices, which is a nice bonus.

Alice in Wonderland

This is The Hague’s kinderboekhandel (children’s bookshop), and it is everything a children’s bookshop should be!

Before you enter, you’ll see a little free library standing by the doorway, as well as a white rabbit cutout inviting you inside.

The aesthetics take your breath away immediately. Cosy wood furnishings, colourful books lining every wall, a stage at the back with a throne at its centre!

A section dedicated to Roald Dahl, and even what could only be called a shrine to Alice in Wonderland.

Sections are divided by age, and you’ll find everything from picture books and pop-up books to novels for children and middle-grade readers.

This is exactly what a children’s bookshop should look and feel like: a bright, magical space that feels like a portal into one’s own imagination.

One of the most beautiful and essential bookshops in The Hague, this is a haven for little bookworms.

There’s a purity, a cleanliness, and a natural beauty to Copenhagen. It feels like this city, and only this city, could have been the place to give birth to the fairytales of Hans Christian Andersen. In so many ways, Copenhagen is a fairytale. So, in this fairytale city, let’s take a look at the very best things to do.

Unique Things to Do in Copenhagen

Here are some of the best things you can do in Copenhagen, from food to museums, and quirky areas.

Explore Christiania – Free Town

An entirely free city within the city. Christiania, a self-proclaimed autonomous neighbourhood, was born in 1971 when a group of homeless squatters occupied the abandoned military barracks and, simply, never left!

Despite government attempts to shut Christiania down, the area has become a pseudo-communist haven for hippies and anyone seeking a life free of traditional work, rent, and tax. Anyone can join Christiania – homeless there are given a home, and from there they can build what they want: a life, a business, anything.

You’ll find art shops, DIY lifestyle, gardens, delicious eating spots. Of course, this place has a reputation for its weed; and you can absolutely buy weed and smoke to your heart’s content here (though they have strict rules against any other kinds of drugs) but head straight past the famous ‘green market’ and you’ll find a thriving and fascinating community of free people. Get coffee at Manefiseren and eat at Spiseloppen or Morgenstedet.

Read More: Bookish Guide to Copenhagen

Climb Rundetarn, The Round Tower

The iconic 17th-century spiral tower can be found in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter. Climbing up the tower is part of the fun as you follow a 209-metre spiral pathway, commissioned by King Christian IV for stargazing. This is the oldest functioning observatory in Europe, was featured in The Journey to the Centre of the Earth and offers a fabulous view of the city from its very centre.

Learn at The National Museum of Denmark

What’s a guide to arts and culture without a recommendation to visit Denmark’s biggest museum of cultural history! Found within the 300-year-old Prince’s Palace, the National Museum has exhibits both permanent and temporary.

These exhibits showcase all of the food, fashion, engineering, architecture, art, and science that defined each period of Denmark’s history. Much of the National Museum’s greatest splendour comes from its collections of Viking artefacts: coins, weapons, ships, clothing, and more.

Check out the Music at Sort Kaffe & Vinyl

The owner’s dual passion for music and coffee come together in this shop, where staff – mainly local musicians – play records while serving excellent coffee and pastries. Their vinyl collection is second to none, boasting both new releases and reprints of classic vinyl. Located in the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen’s hipster district, this is a fantastic place to see the passion Danes have for good music while also experiencing Denmark’s impassioned coffee culture for yourself.

Wander Nyhavn, Home of H.C. Andersen

Nyhavn (or New Haven) is the most photographed and recognisable part of Copenhagen. At first glance, Nyhavn simply looks like a row of prettily-painted houses cuddled up together by the water, but it’s a lot more than that.

Nyhavn’s most famous resident is Hans Christian Andersen himself, who was born in Odense and travelled the world extensively but spent twenty years of his adult life living in no. 67 (today Café H.C. Andersen can be found on the ground floor). The rest of Nyhavn is comprised of really really great restaurants that serve up the best seafood in Copenhagen.

Read More: Copenhagen Neighbourhood Guide (+Where to Stay)

Shop on the Longest Pedestrian Street in Europe – Strøget

Strøget is perhaps the most darling street in Copenhagen. You won’t even hear the sound of cars here, and the gently winding street is always packed with happy, smiling shoppers enjoying a crepe or an ice cream cone as they window shop. Buskers play violins and accordions outside the Disney Store and the Lego Store.

Along here you can also stop for a pint at The Dubliner – Copenhagen’s Irish pub. And certainly don’t miss out on the Guinness World Record Museum, which is exactly what you’re picturing.

Eat at TorveHallerne Market

An easy experience, right next to Norreport station, you’ll find two huge glass buildings next to each other joined in the middle by a fruit and veg market and some outside food stalls. Inside the first, you’ll find everything from gourmet coffee and chocolate to the largest pastries you’ll have encountered in your life.

Homemade ice-cream, tea houses and fresh juice bars sit next to fantastic Mexican food. There are delis, spice shops, tea shops, all with a bustling market atmosphere. It’s perfect if you’ve come together as a group and can’t decide which food to go for first!

Read More: Check out our walking guide to the food hall to have a look at what’s there.

Play a Board Game at Bastard Café

This isn’t some weird translation error; it’s just the perfect example of Danish humour. Bastard Café is a fantastic open-plan room full of long benches on which to play one of a massive selection of board games. When you go and order a drink, you’ll find a selection of muffins and cookies for sale, as well as bar snacks like fries and nachos.

The guys who work there come from all over the world and have all wound up in Denmark for different reasons (they even each have a little flag on the counter – it’s adorable). Once you’ve settled with some food and coffee, grab yourself a board game – anything from the charming and simple Ticket to Ride to something more hardcore that may take you deep into the evening.

Look Up at Glyptoteket Sculpture Museum

A beautiful museum created in 1888, situated right next to Tivoli, you’ll find an impressive collection of ancient busts, sculptures, artwork, and artefacts from all over the Mediterranean – including Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. You’ll also find French and Danish art upstairs.

The brewer Carl Jacobson (of Carlsberg fame) built the Glyptoteket to provide fellow citizens with rich cultural experiences they may not be able to get without having a lot of money and free time of their own, and also have a place for his world-renowned collection of art to live in all its splendour. Jacobson was a slightly eccentric man, as is plain to see, but he has provided us with one of the most exhilarating and unique things to do in Copenhagen.

Top tip: If you’re in the city on a Tuesday, the museum is free! It’s also closed on Mondays. They have a gorgeous cafe set in a Winter garden and a particularly tempting book and trinket shop inside.

Explore Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

As you drive in up the path, you’ll see that the Louisiana looks like a traditional Louisiana plantation house, with white walls, columns, a balcony, and creeping ivy. And that’s all true, until you get inside and all that traditional facade falls away to reveal wide open halls and spaces filled with incredible modern art.

We’re not talking modern art like the stuff that’s often so divisive amongst not only art lovers but your average person. We’re talking really great, moving, politically-inspired artwork from visionary artists, photographers, and filmmakers.

The gardens overlook the open ocean and are dotted with strange and surreal sculptures that you’re free to wander and photograph. Then, inside, you’ll discover 20th-century artwork from some of Europe and the USA’s true visionary artists. Wandering the interior and the gardens of The Louisiana is one of the most pleasurable, relaxing, and unique things to do in Copenhagen.

Discover Format Artspace

Opened in 2013, this space focuses on Danish artists and designers and showcases their work in bi-monthly exhibitions which focus on experimentation with different mediums and materials.

You’ll find it on Nansengade, a tucked-away street full of wine bars, cute cafes, and restaurants. You can also buy prints from the artists so it’s worth just popping in for a unique souvenir.

Read More: Check out Copenhagen’s Incredible Tattoo Artists and Studios.

Step Back in Time at Kronborg Castle

This magnificent castle on the northern edge of Denmark is a 30-minute drive north of Copenhagen. It’s an easy afternoon trip from the city, and one of the best things to do with a free day in Copenhagen.

The castle is perhaps most famous, ironically, not for its real Danish history, but for its fictional British history. The castle, you see, was the setting inspiration for Shakespeare’s Hamlet, which makes visiting it one of the most special and unique things to do in Copenhagen.

And because of that, performances of Hamlet take place at the castle each summer, there’s a carving of Shakespeare’s face in one of its walls, and the gift shop offers as many Hamlet-related trinkets as Viking ones. For more details about our own visit to Kronborg Castle, click right here!

Sweat at Copenhot- a Scandinavian Sauna Experience

One of the things that all of Scandinavia is known for is saunas, and this kind of natural relaxation and healthy living has been further reinforced by the popularity of the Danish philosophy of Hygge.

Copenhot feels like the culmination of all of this. Located at the eastern edge of the city in Refshaleøen, Copenhot offers unique outdoor hot tubs filled with clean seawater and heated with firewood. They blend the rugged rural atmosphere of traditional saunas with a modern urban setting.

You can sit in a quiet wooden steam room or a little round tub at the edge of the open ocean. A very unique experience that celebrates Danish tradition in a clever way.

Eat at Veggie Hero, an Indian and Nepalese Buffet

Although not synonymous with Danish cuisine, this tucked-away eatery is certainly too good to miss. Denmark is very very good at setting trends and riding their waves, so of course, Copenhagen would be the city to have an all-you-can-eat vegan Indian buffet.

Meals in Copenhagen are, in general, a little on the pricey side, so this buffet is not only fantastic value for money but also something totally unique and delicious. All the food is vegan and made to behave as perfect meat substitutes, keeping the authenticity of the Indian cuisine going strong.

Read More: Check out our budget guide to Copenhagen’s restaurants.

Get Lost in the Designmuseum Denmark

Honestly, the restaurant and cafe at the Designmuseum is well worth a visit alone, and you don’t even need a ticket to access it. The wifi is great, the open-sandwiches are to die for (try the mushroom pate), and the gift shop next to it is one of the most dangerously tempting I’ve ever come across, with fantastic gifts that range from art and photography books to prints, furniture, handmade jewellery, lego lunch boxes… I could go on. As for the museum itself, it is a fantastic showcase of the minimalist beauty of clever Danish design and architecture.

Have a Day of Fun at Tivoli Theme Park

Copenhagen is one of those special harmonious cities. One that’s so beautiful, filled with people so kind, that it can house a theme park in its centre and it only makes sense to be there. Having a theme park in the heart of its capital is part of what makes Copenhagen such a magical city, and exploring Tivoli is one of the most delightful and unique things to do in Copenhagen.

Tivoli is the world’s second-oldest theme park (the first, Bakken, is also in the Copenhagen area, a little outside the city – see below).

Tivoli opened when H.C. Andersen was still alive, and he himself fell deeply in love with its charm and design. Visits to Tivoli, in fact, actually inspired his fairytale The Nightingale. Tivoli behaves like a miniature planet Earth, with different areas being inspired by the aesthetics and history of different places around the world, from Europe to India to China.

When you visit, you can either buy a day-pass that covers all rides, or a reduced ticket that gets you entry only, and then each ride costs extra. This is ideal for people who love the atmosphere of theme parks but have a fear of the rides. Well done, Copenhagen!

Read More: You can learn even more about Andersen and Tivoli in our Bookish Guide to Copenhagen.

Bakken and the Deer Park

Bakken is the world’s oldest theme park, a fact that immediately makes visiting Bakken one of the most unique things to do in Copenhagen. You can find Bakken just a little ways outside Copenhagen. Entry is free and though most of the rides aren’t particularly daring or state-of-the-art, it’s oozing with charm. The restaurants are also surprisingly varied and serve some excellent European cuisine.

If you drive in and park at Bakken carpark, you can wander through the park for free and pop out the other side in the deer park. This huge expanse of green land is home to thousands of wild deer, as well as the Hunting Lodge, a gorgeous 19th-century building stood strangely alone at the heart of the park.

Read More: Find more at Bakken and our other day trips from Copenhagen.

Take a Day Trip to Malmö, Sweden

This is one of the coolest but often-missed and most unique things to do in Copenhagen. Denmark’s capital is sat right on the border to Sweden, with only a tiny strip of water separating them.

You can take a bus or a train across a massive bridge and be in Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city, within ninety minutes. Once there, you can visit the oldest castle in Scandinavia, a stunning library, and some great boutique shops. If you want to know more, we covered Malmö in even greater detail in this guide to the city.

If you’re interested in more day trips, then consider travelling to the fairytale town of Odense. Check out our guide here.

Read More: If you’re travelling across Scandinavia, check out our Arts and Culture Guide to Oslo!

Between its coffee culture and lush greenery, it’s consistently ranked one of the best places in the US. It’s even been named a UNESCO city of literature and has a lot to offer to creatives. Get ready to read, drink, and explore your way through Emerald City aka Seattle.

How to Get Around Seattle

There are several modes of transportation in Seattle including bicycles and public transportation, which is good because the city is known to have congested traffic. With that said, traffic is worse during morning and afternoon rush hour and calmer at other times of the day.

Here’s how you can get around Seattle during your visit:

• Taxis and ridesharing: It’s easy to get a taxi or rideshare such as Lyft or Uber wherever you’d like around the city. All rides can be scheduled via an app on any smartphone.
• Bike-sharing: The city is very bike-friendly and bikes are for rent throughout Seattle. You can find and reserve your bike on the Uber app or Lime’s bike-share service.
• Car: As mentioned, traffic is less than desirable in the city. However, you can get around by car and rental cars are also available at the airport and throughout the city.
• On foot: Since many of the areas in Seattle have so much to see and do close together, it’s easy to explore a lot of districts and neighborhoods on foot.
• Link Light Rail: The train runs from very early morning to midnight or later. It has 14 stops including downtown and the airport.
• Metro Transit: This bus runs in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods in King county. Times vary.
• Seattle Streetcars: Conveniently navigate through the popular area of downtown on a streetcar. They run from morning to evening.
• Seattle Center Monorail: This train goes from Westlake Center (downtown) to Seattle Center at the bottom of Queen Anna hill. It also runs from morning to evening.

Special tip: Public transportation digital tickets can be purchased on this mobile app.

Get the Seattle CityPASS to cover your transports costs and entry into most major attractions.

3 Day Seattle Itinerary

Travellers can easily spend a week in Seattle. These three areas are some of the most popular. And, the great thing is that you can explore on foot each of these 3 days in Seattle. There are so many activities to do in an area that you can easily spend a whole day.

No matter how much time you have for your Seattle itinerary, here’s how you can spend an unforgettable 3 days. Stay tuned for other ideas if your trip is longer.

Day One: Visit Pike Place Market

What better way to begin your Seattle itinerary than by visiting one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world? Pike Place Market boasts shopping, dining, and other activities for a fun-filled day.

For breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner, there are tons of options including bakeries, cafes, and fine dining. If you fancy a coffee, beer, or cocktail, there’s also plenty of options for that!

For some book shopping in the area, we recommend these wonderful Seattle book stores:

• BLMF Literary Saloon: excellent selection of used books
• Lamplight Books: quaint store with new and used books
• Left Bank Books: new and used books with thousands to choose from

Don’t forget to check out a couple of awesome Seattle museums located by the market:

• Giant Shoe Museum: displays a unique selection of giant shoes
• Seattle Art Museum: features a variety of local and global art

Day Two: Visit Capitol Hill

This diverse hip Seattle district offers a delightful way to spend a day. Here you can easily wander around and come across tons of restaurants, bars, shops, and more.

Our favourite thing to do here is to indulge in Seattle’s literary delights:

• Seattle Public Library: small branch located in Capitol Hill offers a peaceful place to read
• Hugo House: a place where readers and writers can come together; readings, classes, workshops, and more
• The Elliott Bay Book Company: multilevel bookstore with author readings, events, and book clubs
• Twice Sold Tales: a charming shop selling secondhand books

Capitol Hill offers cafes galore. These are some great ones worth checking out:

• Ada’s Technical Books and Cafe: bookstore with a bright, airy cafe that’s named after Ada Lovelace, one of the mother’s of computer science and daughter of Lord Byron.
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill: very popular spot serving various coffee, cocktails, and snacks. This isn’t the very first Starbucks but is certainly the most impressive in the founding city.
• Espresso Vivace: local favourite, no-frills coffee shop serving top-notch java

When the evening rolls around, there are several things to do. Check out a show at Paramount Theatre or live music as The Showbox or The Crocodile Bar. If you’re looking for fun nightlife, there are also a variety of bars and clubs.

Day Three: Visit The University District

Spend the third day of your Seattle itinerary in the eclectic University District. Get lost wandering around exploring historic homes and architecture while stopping at sights along the way.

The University of Washington campus is a great place to check out. There are over 600 acres of unspoiled nature including the iconic Spring cherry blossom. The university’s library also features a reading room that gives cool Harry Potter vibes with brass lamps, oak tables, and stained glass windows.

While you’re on campus, the Henry Art Gallery is one of a kind and well worth a visit. The Henry is the first to showcase new pieces by emerging artists and they feature contemporary, daring exhibitions. 

Spend the final afternoon and evening of your 3 days in Seattle exploring The Ave, a major street and commercial district by campus. 

• Go vintage and thrift shopping
• Grab a coffee at Seattle’s oldest espresso bar, Cafe Allegro
• Visit Open Books: A Poem Emporium, one of three poetry bookstores in the US
• Enjoy a drink at Blue Moon Tavern, a quirky pub that’s frequented by famous authors

Other Activities

The list is endless for what to do in Seattle. If you have some extra time, a car, and an interest in other activities, here are some ideas.

• Visit the Twede’s Cafe, the filming location diner on the Twin Peaks drama series. There are other shooting locations nearby, too, as well as the famous Snoqualmie Falls.
• Spend time at Discovery Park, Seattle’s largest green space. You can find miles of trails, beaches, and stunning views.
• Check out the Museum of Pop Culture. Pop culture comes to life at this Jimi Hendrix-inspired museum.
• Go to the Space Needle, one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks. Check out 360-degree views of the city from more than 600 feet high.
• Walk around Pioneer Square, Seattle’s oldest neighborhood. Explore remarkable architecture, art galleries, bookstores, and cafes. Or explore the underground caverns below.
• Take a coffee-making class at Seattle Barista Academy. This three-hour course is a short drive from downtown and teaches you the secrets of being a barista.
• Taste wine at Chateau Ste. Michelle, Washington’s oldest winery.
• Attend a Town Hall lecture on science, culture, or civics.
• Take a day trip to Mt Rainier for a hike

Read More: Fancy a day trip while in Seattle? Take a ride to the nearby city of Portland, Oregon.

Where to Stay in Seattle

When planning a trip to Seattle, there are several areas to book your stay. Two of the most popular are Downtown and the University District. These two areas are about a fifteen-minute drive from the other. 

Downtown is the heart of the city where there is a lot to see and do including the Pike Place Market and views of Elliot Bay. The University District is close to campus and offers a laid-back feel, shopping, and cafes galore.

There are plenty of accommodation options around Seattle. Here are a few of the best ones.

The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel

The charming, historic Alexis Royal is located downtown in the historic West Edge Neighborhood. Right outside your room, you can find a spa, fitness centre, and The Bookstore Bar & Cafe. It offers stunning views of the city and is steps away from local attractions. Rates start at around $200 per night.

Palihotel Seattle

Across from Downtown Seattle’s Pike Place Market is the fun, contemporary Palihotel. This boutique hotel has cosy, eclectic rooms along with a restaurant and bar. Rates start at $155 per night.

Inn at The Market

Recognized by Travel + Leisure, Inn at the Market is the only hotel located in the Pike Place Market. It’s surrounded by Seattle’s vibrant life. The hotel has three restaurants and a rooftop deck with panoramic views. Rates start at around $200 per night.

Graduate Seattle

Away from downtown in the University District. Graduate Seattle is a historic hotel with art deco vibes within walking distance of the campus. It features a rooftop bar, cafe, and it’s pet-friendly. Rates start at $175 per night.

Other popular areas to stay in include Capitol Hill, the Pioneer District, and the International District.

There’s so much to see and do for a memorable time in Seattle. We hope this Seattle itinerary allows you to enjoy an incredible cultural experience!

For more cultural itineraries in the US check out:

The Ultimate Five-day LA Itinerary for Culture Lovers

24 Hours in Venice Beach, LA (Complete Guide)

A Guide to the Hudson Valley NY: Small Towns and Natural Beauty

New York Itinerary: 4 Days in the City for Culture Lovers

It’s always hard to begin exploring a city as big as Brussels when you’re looking for the most beautiful buildings. From UNESCO World Heritage, to modern masterpieces Brussells has so much to offer for architecture lovers. 

To get you started, here is a list of the most interesting and amazing buildings, mentioning all the beauties like the Art Nouveau style of the Musical Instrument Museum, The Gothic Town Hall and the Neo-Renaissance Galleries of Saint-Hubert!

All architectural gems in Brussels

Make sure to bring a camera when you’re discovering Brussels, because you’ll walk by a lot of stunning places such as cathedrals, historic monuments, and other architectural landmarks where it’s easy to create a unique photograph. 

1) Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Address: Elisabeth Park, 1083 Brussels

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart, constructed in the Art Deco style, is 89 meters tall and 167 long: measurements which make it the fifth largest church in the world.

Located in the outskirts of Brussels, in the neighborhood of Koekelberg, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacré-Coeur Basilica) is an architectural masterpiece from the twentieth century.

2) House of Bellone

Address: Vlaamsesteenweg 46, 1000 Brussels

La Bellone – also known as the House of Performing Arts – is situated in the center of the city,  and is dedicated to live arts: theater, dance, opera, circus, performance,..

The building is a courtyard covered by a glass roof, sheltering a baroque facade which was built at the beginning of the 18th century by Jean Cosyn.

3) Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg

Address: Koningsplein, 1000 Brussels

The Church of St. James on Coudenberg is a neoclassical Roman Catholic church located on the historic Place Royale/Koningsplein in the central of the city.

4) Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

Address: Sinter-Goedeleplein, 1000 Brussels

The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a medieval Roman Catholic church.It is consecrated to St. Michael and St. Gudula – the patron saints of the City of Brussels – and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Brabantine Gothic architecture.

5) Chapel Church

Address: Rue de la Chapelle, 1000 Brussels

Remarkable due to its Romanesque and Romanesque-Gothic architecture, it is one of the most interesting in Belgium. One of its chapels is devoted to the memory of Pieter Bruegel the Elder and his wife, Marie Coucke.

6) Halle Gate

Address: Boulevard du Midi 150, 1060 Saint-Gilles

The Halle Gate is a medieval fortified city gate and the last vestige of the second walls of Brussels.

It is now a museum, part of the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH).

7) Eglise Notre-Dame de Laeken

Address: Parvis Notre-Dame, 1020 Laeken

Constructed in the 19th century and dedicated to Louise-Marie, first Queen of the Belgians, it contains the Royal Crypt.

The choir of the original 13th century church is in early Gothic style and is in the cemetery where numerous well-known personalities are buried.

8) Place de la Bourse

Address: Beursplein, 1000 Brussels

The Place de la Bourse – literally to “Stock Exchange Square” – is a major square. The former Stock Exchange building is located on this square.

9) The Royal Theatre of La Monnaie

Address: Munt, 1000 Brussels

Of all the buildings in Brussels, none has witnessed the joys, sorrows and even the beginning of the nation quite like La Monnaie has. It’s a cultural institution where visitors can enjoy theater and music, but it’s also a place where you can touch a still relevant piece of Belgium’s history.

10) Pannenhuis Metro Station

Address: Charles Demeerstraat, Laeken

The Pannenhuis Metro Station is one of the metro stations on line 6 of the Brussels Metro and was opened in 1982. Its striking design has made it a popular spot for urban photographers.

11) Atomium

Address: Atomiumsquare, 1020 Brussels

The Atomium is an archutectural landmark, originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Expo. It is located on the Heysel Plateau, where the exhibition took place and now it functions as a museum.

12) Stoclet Palace

Address: Stocletpaleis, 1150 Brussels

The Stoclet Palace is considered to be one of the best architectural masterpieces in Brussels. However, this Art Nouveau villa, built by several established artists, has one setback – the palace is deemed private property under the jurisdiction of its heirs, meaning it is closed to the public. While the Stoclet family wants people to keep a distance from their home, at least individuals can appreciate the view.

The villa became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009.

13) Villa Empain

Address: Avenue Franklin Roosevelt 67, Brussels

Villa Empain is one of the most impressive and emblematic architectural buildings of Brussels.

It’s a private house in the Art Deco style built in 1930–1934 by Swiss architect Michel Polak. It was commissioned by Baron Louis Empain – son of the Belgian industrialist Édouard Empain. Since its restoration in 2009–2011, it has been open to the public.

Villa Empain is currently being owned by the Boghossian family, and is the host to multiple cultural events: from lunch time political conferences to art fairs.

14) Grand Place

Address: Grand Palace, 1000 Brussels

The Grand Place is the most important tourist destination and most memorable landmark in Brussels. It is also considered as one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.

15) Apple Store

Address: Avenue de la Toison d’Or 26/28, Brussels

Brussels Apple Store is truly beautiful – the glass panels are up to 8 meters high and took a lot of technique and are able to design them and places. Apple wanted to create A new way linking the store with its surroundings.

16) Council of the European Union

Address: Wetstraat 175, 1000 Brussels

The Council of the European Union houses the Council of Europe member states and other offices. The building is a huge complex, which is quite interesting as well.

Tip: Best to make arrangements days in advance, so you’re able to actually enter the building.

17) Palace of Justice of Brussels

Address: Poelaertplein 1, 1000 Brussels

Le Palais de Justice (The Palace of Justice) is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the whole of Europe.

It is currently still the most important court building in Belgium. Due to its sheer size (a total ground surface of 26,000 m²) and its location on the high Town of Brussels, the building is visible from most parts of the town.

Belgium’s most important courthouse has been the butt of jokes for decades, because it has been covered with scaffolds since 1983.

Read More:

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Oxford is of course home to the University of Oxford, one of the oldest and most beautiful universities in the world. From the Bodleian Library, with its medieval rooms and graceful, stone courtyards, to the famous Bridge of Sighs, Oxford University boasts stunning architecture from all ages, and the city is worth visiting for that reason alone.

Oxford is also a book lover’s haven. Blackwell’s bookshop is a true treasure trove, and one of Oxford’s rarest gems. With over three miles of bookshelf space, it is officially the biggest bookselling room on the planet. You’ll never be short of a good meal in Oxford – the city has a fantastic food culture, with its restaurants and markets selling delicious delicacies from all over the world.

It’s also an easy day trip from London making it very accessible for anyone on a tight schedule.

Things to Do In Oxford that You May Not Have Thought Of

Let’s dive into the details, and explore the special things you can only do in this beautiful and historic city.

Punting

Punting is a quintessential Oxford experience, and one of the best ways to experience this beautiful city and its iconic architecture and countryside. The easiest place to rent a punt is from Magdalen Bridge Boathouse. It costs £22 per hour to hire a punt during the week and £24 per hour on the weekend.

You’ll enjoy a relaxing route, as you drift past Oxford’s breathtaking Botanic Gardens and Christ Church College meadows, where Lewis Carroll wrote Alice in Wonderland. You can then either choose the route past St Hilda’s College and the rose gardens of Magdalen School.

Alternatively, you can punt north along the grounds of Magdalen College. This is well worth doing as Magdalen college has some of the most staggering architecture in the whole of Oxford. Lying back in a punt and gazing on the soaring spires of Magdalen Tower, perhaps with a drink in your hand, is a truly unique experience.

Read More: Visit Blenheim Palace and Woodstock from Oxford

Oxford Royale Academy

Did you know that you can live and study at the University of Oxford, even if you didn’t get in or haven’t applied yet? Imagine spending two weeks in dining halls and libraries that tourists can only dream of entering.

Oxford Royale Academy, a UK summer schools provider, offers a truly authentic experience of life in the University of Oxford for students ages 12-19+.

Oxford Royale Academy offers a variety of Oxford University colleges as accommodation for its summer courses. You could be sleeping and dining in University College, potentially the oldest college in Oxford. You might dine every night in the grand dining hall of Balliol College, with its vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows.

You could be sleeping in dormitories at The Queen’s College, and walking daily across its quad, which a famous architectural historian famously described as, “the grandest piece of classical architecture in Oxford”. You’ll live, sleep and dine in your college, following in the footsteps of the most brilliant minds in history.

Oxford Royale Academy offers a wide range of exciting and innovative courses, from Archaeology to iOS app development. You’ll study subjects you’ll never come across at school, and enjoy Oxford’s most exclusive locations, such as the Examination Halls, which ordinary visitors are barred from.

If you’re aged 16-19, you’ll attend a Great Debate in Oxford’s famous Sheldonian Theatre. This extraordinary building, creating in the neo-classical style, is where Oxford University students matriculate and graduate. You’ll end your course with an opulent, black-tie ball. The ball includes a delicious, three-course dinner, which reflects Oxford’s tradition of Formal Hall, where grace is said in Latin. Truly a unique experience in Oxford.

Read More: A Day in Oxford for Culture Lovers

Zheng Restaurant Oxford

The food at Zheng is as famous as it is delicious. Giles Coren, prestigious food critic for The Times called it “possibly the best authentic Chinese / Malaysian restaurant in the country. Zheng boasts everything from dim sum and succulent appetisers, to Malaysian, Singaporean, Szechuan, Cantonese and Shanghainese cuisine.

Step into its smoothly panelled, cavernous interior and enjoy crunchy salt and pepper squid, Cantonese roast duck, which Coren describes in his review as “lukewarm, sweet, and melting gently”, and a gorgeous chicken rendang.

Zheng has some of the most delicious dim sum in the UK, with perfect har gao and siew mai (prawn and pork dumplings), and pork char siu buns that are out of this world. Zheng is, incidentally, a great environment for kids. They have cute, child-size red arm chairs in their entrance, a tank full of beautiful fish that will distract many a bored child and free lollipops (they’re also kind enough to ask the parents before offering the kids any!)

The Bodleian Library

The Bodleian Library makes Oxford truly unique. The library has existed since the 15th Century and now holds over 13 million printed items. Since the 15th Century, the library has developed from small, abandoned medieval room to an institution which now holds over 13 million printed items, including a copy of every book ever published in England!

One tradition, fiercely guarded, is that no books in the Bodleian Library are to be lent to readers. Even King Charles I was refused to borrow a book in 1645! The Bodleian Library has a collection of books and manuscripts from all over the globe. This collection attracts scholars from every corner of the world.

The Bodleian Libraries’ Special Collections (at the Weston Library) holds the second largest collection of manuscripts and archives in Britain, with items ranging as far back as papyri of the 3rd Century B.C.

For anyone who visits Oxford, a tour of the Bodleian Library is an absolute must. The Bodleian Libraries offer an exclusive, Covid-safe guided tour which will introduce you to the most extraordinary and beautiful features of the Bodleian Library.

You’ll enter in through the Quadrangle, and straight into the impressive Divinity School. This medieval room with its exquisitely vaulted ceilings is the oldest teaching and examination room in the University of Oxford.

You can also enjoy a 30-minute guided tour of the Duke Humfrey’s Library, which is the oldest reading room in the Bodleian Library. Gaze down its walls lined with oak bookshelves and its ceiling painted with the arms of the university.

Take in the stunning architecture from different eras from its original medieval section (built in 1487), to its Selden End (built in 1637).

The Radcliffe Camera is also one of Oxford’s most unique landmarks. Built by James Gibbs in the neo-classical style, it is a working library for Oxford University students. From its soaring dome roof, to the archways gracing its base, it is a proud representation of Oxford’s breathtaking architecture.

Although you can’t get access inside, you can find some walking tours where an expert student guide will show you the building and give you inside knowledge on it.

Oxford University’s Colleges

It’s worth visiting Oxford just for a glimpse of the famous colleges of Oxford University, and their stunning array of architecture, from the medieval to the modern.

Footsprints Tours offers a two hour free walking tour of Oxford colleges including Christ Church College, alma mater of 13 British prime ministers, the mysterious All Souls College, which is nearly impossible to get a place at, and Hertford College. You’ll also see the Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera, two of Oxford University’s most iconic buildings.

At Christ Church College, where many of the most famous scenes of Harry Potter, you’ll see the renowned Tudor Great Dining Hall (which was used to create the Hogwarts dining hall in Harry Potter, with its famous feasts and self-clearing magical plates.

You’ll also see the famous Bodley staircase in Christ Church. You’ll get to see the splendid cloisters and courtyard of New College, and Hertford College, with its iconic Bridge of Sighs, linking the Old Quad to the New Quad.

Read More: Discover Oxford’s Most Beautiful Colleges

Oxford Castle and Prison

Visit Oxford imposing castle and prison Castle and Prison, and discover 1,000 years of Oxford’s history. Climb to the top of St George’s tower (one of Oxford’s most ancient pieces of architecture, built in 1020 AD), and enjoy a panoramic view over the whole of Oxford, taking in the extraordinary sights of the city and university.

You can then descend underground into the candle-lit crypt of the castle’s prison. You’ll get the shivers as you step inside 18th Century prison cells, and hear the stories of some of Oxford Castle’s most infamous prisoners, such as Empress Matilda.

An outside tour of the castle will take you up its famous mound, where you’ll see how it turned from the original Motte and Bailey castle, to the grand and defensive structure it is today. Oxford Castle and Prison also has a gift shop which sells historically inspired gifts, including mock weaponry and cuddly dragons.

After soaking up the fascinating stories of Oxford Castle and Prison, you can also research your own family history in the gift shop. Oxford Castle and Prison have a Hall of Names system, where they can search for your surname history in an extensive database of records. Printed in just 5 minutes, you can also take your history home with you.

Read More: Oxford Itinerary: 3 Days in the City of Dreaming Spires

Bookshops

Oxford is a book-lovers paradise. Blackwell’s bookshop in Oxford is one of Oxford’s rarest treasures. Situated on Oxford’s stately Broad Street, its famed Norrington Room holds one of the richest collections of books for sale in the world.

With over three miles of book shelf space, it is officially the biggest bookselling room on the planet.

The Last Bookshop, folded into the Jericho area of Oxford, is a fantastic discount bookshop, offering both new and second hand volumes. There’s also a tiny cafe, where you can sit and look at your new purchases.

The shop also sells vinyl records, so if you’re a fan of vintage-style music, this is the place for you.

Arcadia bookshop is a very special treasure trove, situated on St Michael’s street in Oxford. It’s a tiny shop selling a range of gifts, but specialises in rare and vintage books. There are rumours that the shop is run by fairies, as the items it sells are so delicate and adorable. You can find anything from antique maps to rare, Penguin classics, all perfectly packaged in cellophane.

Gloucester Green market

Visit Gloucester Green Market in Oxford, and taste food from Tibet, Japan, India, and any other far-flung corner of the earth. This open air market includes delicious street food from more than 20 countries, and features vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.

In one corner of the market, you could be tucking into a rich Spanish paella with succulent king prawns and deliciously spiced falafel in another.

Gloucester Green market also offers a compelling range of general produce, from fresh fruit and vegetables, fabrics and stunning jewellery, to haberdashery, watches and clothing. There’s so much to do and see in this vibrant and bustling market, you could easily spend hours gazing at every stall and still not feel ready to leave.

Museums

Oxford has some of the world’s most famous museums and collections of artefacts, and visiting them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone. Oxford’s Pitt Rivers Museum is truly unique, and houses over 500,000 objects, photographs and manuscripts from all over the world, and from all eras in human existence.

The museum’s extraordinary collection of artefacts ranges from brass mermaid dishes from Nigeria, to axe heads from the Archaic period (8,000 BC to 1,000 BC). It’s one of our favourite things to do in Oxford as it’s impossible not to be amazed by the quirky collection.

The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford is one of the most extraordinary museums of art and archaeology in the world. It has some of the richest and rarest collections, from Egyptian mummies and royal relics such as the Alfred Jewel, to Guy Fawkes’ lantern and the mantle of Powhatan (Pocahontas’ father).

If you enjoyed this guide to the unique things to do in oxford, make sure to pay a visit to Cambridge too.

Dotted on all corners of the globe, each library’s unique atmosphere lets visitors soak in the cultural and historical significance of its standing, as well as feel empowered by the limitless possibility for knowledge at their fingertips.

Helsinki Central Library Oodi, Finland

The €98 million Helsinki Central Oodi was a gift from the government to its citizens and faces opposite parliament to reflect the amicable relationship between the two. On completion in November 2019, the library’s architects (ALA Architects) stated that ‘The serene atmosphere invites visitors to read, learn, think and to enjoy themselves’, and their vision was an empathic success.

The calming simplicity of the library’s interior creates an idyllic paradise for visitors, who can take in a view of Helsinki through, (and while bathed in the light from), its magnificent floor to ceiling windows. Remember to check out the top floor, known as ‘book heaven’ because of

its spectacular undulating white ceiling. Oodi is more than a library: visitors have lunch, print out on 3-D printers, drink wine, cook, play video games and board games, and rent office space.

There’s even a cinema, recording studio, and an area for exhibitions and events. Library users can let their curiosity run wild with the online service – which lets you choose any of 3.4 million books to be delivered to the library’s door. This library really is a work of art.

Read More: Visit The National Library of Riga With this Weekend Guide

Tianjin Binhai Library, China

Thanks to its unique design, China’s Tianjin Binhai Library is nicknamed ‘The Eye’ with justified reason, as its inner spherical auditorium creates an eye-shaped opening that allows book-worms to peer out in quiet reflection and lets inquisitors gaze in spellbound, from the plaza outside.

The library in China is home to 1.2 million books displayed on enormous rows that extend upwards from floor to ceiling.

There’s a distinct serene and spacy vibe and its 360 degree panoramic views of endless white give it a futuristic feel that almost makes you believe you’re in an episode of Black Mirror. Its architect Winy Maas aimed for ‘a truly reflective and pensive environment’ – and his design achieves exactly that.

The State Library of South Australia, Adelaide 

The State Library of South Australia is glowing in elegance, beauty, and grace. Back in 1834, even before the colony of South Australia had settled, its people planned to build a library to promote ‘the cultivation and diffusion of useful knowledge throughout the colony’. Today, free membership grants you access to the entire library including the stunning Mortlock Wing (pictured).

This magnificent mid-Victorian interior contains wrought iron balustrading ornamented with gold, and contains many books on South Australian history. Incredibly, the library is excellent at helping visitors delve into their family’s past by offering a ‘Falling from The Tree’ service that helps you examine its numerous online resources and archives. 

Read More: Discover The Victoria State Library in Melbourne

Beitou Public Library – Taiwan

“It was an attempt to build a library that can breathe,” says architect Kuo Ying-chao. “It has to blend in perfectly with its surroundings.”

Entrenched in the beating heart of nature, Taiwan’s Beitou Public Library is an environmental and architectural marvel. It sits in the green, mountainous Beitou region of north Taiwan and almost touches the mountain stream that meanders through the city.

Made entirely from wood and other recyclable materials, it stands as the country’s first public green architecture – and its sunlight-converting roof panels ought to spark the admiration of all environmental enthusiasts.

Renowned for its soothing atmosphere, tourists in Beitou are encouraged to go in and take a look, while keen readers can get cosy with a book and be hypnotised by the latest downpour of rain falling outside the window.

Enjoy our Week in Taipei (or skip to six minutes if you’d like to see inside Beitou Public Library).

George Peabody Library, USA

Opened in 1878, this library was American philanthropist George Peabody’s gift to Baltimore. Today, time to explore here must count as a bucket-list worthy experience.

Called the ‘Cathedral of books’, stunning skylight shines down on 6 tiers of balconies containing 300,000 rare volumes dating back to the Renaissance, (for this reason, books can only be read inside the library). Gaze up at the 61 foot atrium and feel the weight of history on your shoulders, and let your thirst for knowledge run wild.

It’s neoclassical, antique feel sucks you in and makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. There’s something magical in the air here… and there’s even a gentle rumour that it inspired the library design in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Although the library belongs to John Hopkins University, anyone in Baltimore can visit. Not even hours and hours of browsing can do this place justice.

Stuttgart Public Library, Germany

Built in 2011, Stuttgart Public Library is like no other. A masterclass in captivating interior architecture. A world of white envelops visitors and instantly halves their heart rate upon entry. A 9-floored cube-like design is complete with chic sofas and neat bookshelves for reading and reflection, all linked by elegant staircases.

The stunning simplicity of its minimalist feel creates an atmosphere of genuine peace and silence. Those interested can listen to its architectural history and list of services through an audio guide. The top floor contains a rooftop terrace offering sweeping Stuttgart panoramas and the whole library lights up in gorgeous blue and white hues at night. A must-see.

Biblioteca Vasconcelos, Mexico

The Biblioteca Vasconcelos is an architectural marvel that will drop your jaw open. This 409,000 square feet design costs 954 million pesos and represents an amazing achievement of human creativity. You enter into a cathedral-like chamber before gazing up at a matrix of high-slung floating bookshelves.

Off the beaten-track in the town of Buenavista to the north of Mexico City, its remote location only heightens its mystical feel. Its lack of internal walls and breath-taking bookshelves are something plucked straight out of a sci-fi movie.

The vibe is relaxed with singing & dancing on the ground floor (yes… really), conversation encouraged and a luscious botanic garden for reflection. Definitely worth a visit.

Admont Abbey Library, Austria

The Admont Abbey Library is the largest monastery library in the world. Drenched in historical significance, the monastery dates back to 1074, with its majority destroyed by a devastating fire in the 17^th century… apart from the library.

In 1776, architect Josef Hueber added a stunning dome fresco detailing progressions in human understanding – from thinking and understanding – to sciences & arts – and finally, divine revelation.

His belief that ‘Like the mind, the room should be filled with light’, and so we see radiant frescos and carved sculptures. At 70m long and 14m wide, there’s room for 200,000 sacred texts. And during COVID-19, a 3D tour can be taken via their website.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Egypt

The world ‘library’ does not aptly describe the new Bibliotheca Alexandria. It was completed in 2002 close to where the ancient library lay, and compromises a 220,000 square feet complex of 8 million books, museums, art galleries, a planetarium, reading room, and manuscript reconstruction centre.

The Antiquities Museum is particularly striking, home to an excellent collection from Pharaonic, Greek, Roman and Islamic periods.

The library’s aim was to promote ‘cultural pluralism and the dissemination of knowledge’ and it succeeds in its mission; a whole day only lets you dip your toe into the wealth of knowledge on show here. Carvings from local artists adorn the buildings exterior, and a 32 metre high glass roof tilted out towards the sea soaks in the soaring Egyptian sun. Simply stunning. 

Nakajima Library, Japan

Winner of many architectural awards, the Nakajima Library is the shining jewel in Akita University’s crown. This library never sleeps – it’s open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for students – and lets the public through its doors for a limited time on weekends.

Built to act as a ‘knowledge arena’, a grand semi-circulator design creates an immense tranquil space for quiet study, reminiscent of a colosseum.

There is an emphasis on reflecting the nature of Akira, with an umbrella-shaped roof made from local cedar wood using ancient construction techniques. Cosy seating meanders through bookshelves, letting visitors choose a chair according to their height. With over 60% non-Japanese books, Nakajima Library offers an incredible experience for anyone.

Written by Ollie Poole

Ollie writes to share his love of unique cultures and creativity. Bookworm, foodie, and Japan enthusiast. Content enquiries welcome via LinkedIn or Instagram.

We highly recommend the Visit Oslo website and app for local information and other places to go, eat, and experience. But first, here’s our bucket list of truly unique experiences that can only be had in Oslo.

Cruise the Oslo Fjord and Capture Incredible Pictures at Sea

With Flam Tours, you can take a fantastic miniature cruise which sails around the fjords of Oslo for approx. two hours (or longer tours around some of the major fjords of Norway). The ship is luxurious, with a cafe on board, and a very informative tour guide will tell you all you’d ever want to know about the city’s geography, history, architecture, and its people.

Titbits like how the newest statue of the current queen depicts her in hiking gear because their royals are so chill, or how the new Opera House was designed after an iceberg, are really fascinating. The views you’ll see are stunning as well, as you gaze out to sea, peer into the dense forests, and get a view of the city proper from every angle.

Try Norwegian/Japanese Fusion Food at Hrimnir

The brand new restaurant Hrimnir opened in 2019 and its head chef is a microbiologist with a fascination for Japanese cuisine. Their small and speciality menu provides Japanese ramen bowls with a Norwegian twist, using locally-sourced ingredients to provide the ultimate fusion of two wonderful cuisines that blend together exceptionally well.

They’re also known for experimenting with fermenting meaning you get to enjoy treats such as koji ice-cream. If you’re a fan of Japanese food and also want to experience the local flavour, this restaurant is king.

Watch a film at The Colosseum Kino

The impressive dome-roofed cinema Colosseum Kino is designed after the Colosseum of Rome and is stunningly modern inside. If you’re in Oslo for a while and don’t want to miss the latest blockbusters, this is the best place to see them.

The Colosseum kino is the largest cinema in Northern Europe and the biggest THX cinema on Earth! Not all cinemas are as photogenic from the outside as this one, making it a rather special place to check out.

Experience Oslo’s Unique Sauna Culture

Sauna culture is seriously taking off in Oslo at the moment and floating saunas are just one of the unique experiences you can enjoy while in Oslo.

The three most notable Oslo saunas are:

• Oslo Fjord Sauna: docked next to the gorgeous Opera Housee building.
• KOK Oslo: if you want to float on the Oslo fjord then have a go jumping into the ice-cold water.
• SALT: the art installation and sauna spot where you can watch TED talks and films while you sweat.

They have some fantastic food and cafe spots with a view if you’re not interested in taking a sauna.

Trace Munch’s Legacy around the City

The artist Munch grew up in Oslo, and lived out his final days there, meaning there’s plenty to explore around the city if you’re an art fan. There’s even the potential for a Munch themed day trip if you’d like to see his home in Åsgårdstrand. Here are some of the places you can visit in Oslo if you’re a fan of The Scream or just want an arty day out.

Munch’s Grave

It might not resemble the darkly ominous works that he’s known for, but Munch’s grave does feature a cool bust of his head atop a small podium. Found in the centre of Our’s Saviours graveyard, itself in the middle of Oslo city, the symbolism of Munch being the beating heart of Oslo is hard to avoid, and neither should be is grave.

The Munch Museum

More of a gallery than a museum, this building features art by Norway’s most famous artist (The Scream is actually considered the world’s second most recognisable painting). Munch’s art is distorted, rough, and enigmatic, The Scream perhaps most of all.

Many of his paintings are hung here, and the gallery also frequently has exhibitions of other great artists from Northern Europe and Russia. There’s actually a new and improved Munch museum opening in 2020 which is being built on the waterfront at the moment.

Scream Hill

At the side of a road known as Valhallveien, on a hill overlooking Oslo, Edvard Munch suffered what is now believed to have been a panic attack, after witnessing the sky turn blood-red.

Painting what he saw and felt, he captured this moment in The Scream. The hill depicted in the painting can be visited by anyone who wishes to see the world that he saw, and perhaps take a moment to mimic the painting for a fun photo.

Embrace Norway’s Ethical Street Food Culture

Vippa Oslo

Vippa is a hip food hall (reminiscent of Singapore’s hawker centres) located inside an old depo on Oslo’s waterfront. It aims to support refugees in Oslo. While you won’t find too much in the way of Norwegian food, this fascinating and dynamic little hall offers food from all over the world prepared by a dozen different vendors, from Mexico to China to Syria.

Oslo Street Food

A new street food market and bar complex in the historic Torggata Bad in central Oslo, opened February 2nd 2019 and showcases food and drink from around the world in a 500-seated hall. They also put on events from talks to performances and DJs. The building was once public baths which opened in 1925

Mathallen

An independent food hall filled with cafes and restaurants, all local Norwegian producers. This hall is a real blend of everything that makes Oslo’s food culture special.

Try Norwegian Food at the Nordic Restaurant GOAT

GOAT Organic Restaurant at Guldsmeden Hotel Oslo opened in November 2018. It is an organic Nordic restaurant which serves meals made with locally-sourced Norwegian ingredients.

One speciality is the world’s only ethically-sourced foie gras. The two head chefs, one of whom has been awarded a Michelin star, both began working at a high-end restaurant in Oslo before deciding to open their own business in 2018.

Head to the House of Literature: Books, Coffee, and Events

On an average day, The House of Literature (or litteraturhuset) near Oslo’s National Theatre is a blended bookstore and restaurant/cafe, the perfect place to pick up a new novel or history book and flick through it with a coffee or a light lunch.

Beyond that, the House of Literature also puts on weekly events which include talks, debates, and cultural activities. They even have their own podcast! It’s a perfect atmosphere to sit back and relax or grab a pastry and get on with some work (they have great wifi)!

Have a coffee and help people get into work and training

Like Vippa streetfood, there are some fantastic places to go while in Oslo if you’re looking to help out the local community and give back a bit. Erlik Kaffe is a coffee shop with a big heart — in the heart of Oslo.

They provide opportunities for training and paid work to homeless people and anyone who’s struggling to get off the streets in one way or another. The coffee and snacks are delicious and it’s a modern yet cosy space to spend some time.

Visit the Future Library

A 100 years public artwork unfolding in Oslo by artist Katie Paterson. The Future Library project aims to collect an original work by a popular writer every year from 2014 to 2114 and to share them with the world only then. 100 books will be printed in limited edition anthologies using paper made from trees planted in the Nordmarka forest especially for the project.

Have a Coffee at the Oldest Café in Oslo

If you like a bit of history with your coffee then why not head to Engebret Cafe, the oldest in the area. A plethora of famous names have sat in this famous spot and its location on a pretty and colourful side street makes it worth the trip alone. Although the menu is somewhat pricey, they do also offer a full menu of Norwegian home cooking that’s very much worth indulging in

Browse 200 Statues at Gustav Vigeland’s Sculpture Park

The sculptures in this park have been turned into countless memes for the particularly emotional stances of the statues that line the bridge to the point where people come here just to find their favourite internet meme in person. Viegland designed the layout of the park as well as the 200 statues that lie inside the Sculpture Park.

Highlights include the giant obelisk in the centre made up of individual sculptures of people as the central fountain area and the bridge leading out of the park and into the popular area of Majorstuen where you can find lots of cafes to relax in and the Colosseum Kino mentioned above.

Swim in the public Sorenga Seawater Pool

This popular recreational spot is located on the southernmost tip of Oslo’s brand new neighbourhood Sørenga and boasts awesome views of the Oslo fjord (the water itself is from the fjord).

The Seawater Pool attracts big crowds on sunny summer days, and in winter the cold water swimming and sauna are popular activities. Once you’re done swimming there are lots of new cafes and bars to enjoy in this hip neighbourhood.

Wander through Akershus Castle and Fortress

Originally built back in 1299, this medieval castle and royal residence developed into a fortress in 1592 and was rebuilt into a renaissance castle between 1637 and 1648.

It stands as a testament to the fact that Oslo was never once successfully invaded, despite an impressive attempt by Swedish king Karl XII  back in 1717 — Akershus Fortress proved too tough to be captured! The fortress itself is a stark, grand, stunning building that yields stunning new views at every turn.

Have a day of theme park fun at TusenFryd

If you’re travelling as a family or love a day out in a theme park then TusenFryd is a great day out. It’s Norway’s biggest park and has lots to offer with everything you might expect like rollercoasters, carousels and games along with some water-based activities like a swimming pool and river, water slides, and log rides.

Visit the Viking Ship and Oslo Folk Museum

Norway’s cultural history is so interesting and varied and there are no better places to immerse yourself in it than the Viking Ship Museum and the Oslo Folk Museum. See original ships in fantastic condition and learn about how the Vikings, gifts found in their grave and take ‘the Viking experience’ an interactive way to enjoy life as a Viking.

The folk museum offers an entire recreated village of 160 buildings that’s perfect for taking photos and learning about the everyday life of the Norwegians through history. The two museums are right next to each other in Bygdøy and you can easily walk from one to the other. Grab tickets to the Viking Ship Museum and Historical Museum.

If you’re particularly interested in Vikings then you’ll be excited to hear about the new Viking Experience Museum opening in June 2019.

Catch an opera or ballet show at The Opera House

Walking on the roof and enjoying stunning views of the fjords is only part of the fun at this dynamic building. Why not catch one of the internationally renowned shows that pay a visit to The Opera House throughout the year. The acoustics and angles of this Snohetta designed building make for a very special viewing experience.

Seek out Oslo’s incredible street art

Mostly located in the Toyan and Grunerlokka districts, you can use this handy map from the tourism board to locate all of the best street art in the city.

International artists and local artists have been slowly making their mark on the city over ten years and there are some seriously impressive paintings just waiting to be found. This also provides a great theme for a  superb walking tour around the city. You can also take this brilliant walking tour of the area as a whole and see lots of interesting spots.

Go vintage shopping on Markveien Street

If you love vintage clothes, coffee shops, and bookshops then this street is perfect for strolling down and ticking off all three. Grünerløkka area is known as the place to go and enjoy the hipster lifestyle and Markveien Street (similar to Haji Lane in Singapore) is the perfect starting point, whether you want to catch a local eatery or go shopping.

Some highlights include the Chillout Travel Centre which is a travel gear shop/travel agency meet cafes and bookshop (trust me, it works), and Glazed & Amused where you can paint your own ceramics.

Visit the largest ski jump in Norway

The Holmenkollen Ski Museum is located just underneath Norway’s largest ski jump – whether you’re interested in skiing or not this is a marvel to see. It’s also the oldest of its kind and has a fascinating history behind it, the museum will introduce you to 4000 years of Norwegian skiing history.

Where to stay in Oslo

Oslo has a wide range of mid-range to luxury hotels, although it is worth noting that it is somewhat difficult to stay here on a budget. Here are some of the newer hotels in Oslo city centre that people are talking about.

The Theif

A new designer hotel on the waterfront of Oslo. Featuring a Turkish Hamam bath, sauna and swimming pool. You can even relax on the chic rooftop terrace and enjoy the views. Tjuvholmen (Thief Islet), where the hotel is located, used to be a haven for smugglers, thieves and scoundrels. Hence the great name!

Amerikalinjen

Neighbouring the Opera House and the Oslo Central Station, this architectural landmark turned luxury boutique was originally the 1919 offices of the Norwegian America Line, once responsible for ferrying hopeful Norwegians across the Atlantic Ocean to the USA. The rooms are furnished with Norwegian designer lamps and unique objects from the history of Amerikalinjen.

Clarion Hotel The Hub

Formerly known as Clarion Hotel Royal Christiania, this hotel opened 1st March 2019 opposite Oslo Central Station. Norway’s largest hotel, with 810 rooms and Norway’s largest rooftop farm, you can enjoy an organic breakfast and Scandinavian inspired dishes on the top floor while also enjoying a great view of the city.

Thon Hotel Storo

A modern and stylish hotel in Storo neighbourhood, with shopping, cinemas, cafés and the Akerselva river just outside its doorsteps. Perfect if you want to be close to the entertainment within the city.

Hotel Verdandi Oslo

A new 3* boutique hotel right in the city centre. The name Verdandi is an old Norse word for “present time/happening”, chosen to remind us all to live in the moment. The great location makes this very easy to achieve.