Travel
8 greatest issues to do in San Antonio
One of many oldest city facilities in Texas, San Antonio is full of spectacular landmarks from centuries previous. But regardless of its advancing years – the town celebrated its three hundredth anniversary in 2018 – San Antonio stays firmly rooted within the current with sprawling markets, cutting-edge museums and a vibrant eating and ingesting scene.
The second-largest metropolis in the state is full of enjoyable points of interest, from strolling the banks of its iconic River Walk to strolling amidst dinosaur footsteps on the Witte Museum. Whether or not you’re vacationing with the whole family or get pleasure from a solo summer trip, these are the very best issues to do in scorching San Antonio.
1. Tour the Alamo
San Antonio is greatest recognized for the Alamo, a former Spanish mission church reworked right into a shrine after American revolutionaries died defending it towards Mexican troops. Inside, you’ll be able to wander by the 18th-century church and go to the Lengthy Barrack the place Davy Crockett, Daniel Boone and others made their final stand.
Commercial
Afterwards, you’ll be able to peruse the rifles, cannonballs and uniforms on show within the Alamo Exhibit, with a lot of the gathering donated to the museum by British rockstar Phil Collins. The previous Genesis frontman has had a lifelong ardour for the Texas landmark, which he reveals in his e book The Alamo and Past: A Collector’s Journey, revealed in 2012.
The Living History Encampment provides a style of life from the 1830s with costumed interpreters giving talks that target medical practices, weaponry, clothes and meals. You’ll be able to see musket firing demonstrations on the road in Alamo Plaza daily at 11:30am.
Planning tip: Admission to the church is free, however you may have to book a ticket online to enter. Get a bit extra out of your go to by reserving an audio tour (obtainable in 5 languages) or a one-hour docent-led guided tour.
2. Cease and scent the roses within the San Antonio Botanical Backyard
Stretching throughout 38 acres, San Antonio’s best-loved inexperienced house has a mixture of formal gardens, tropical greenhouses and meandering pathways that take you thru wild landscapes stuffed with native Texan flora. The San Antonio Botanical Garden’s Lucile Halsell Conservatory is a posh of 5 futuristic glass buildings that permit guests to expertise tropical forests, desert scapes and a fern grotto full with a shimmering waterfall. Children can tromp by water and roll down hills within the Household Journey Backyard.
Planning tip: Verify if there are any special events on the backyard whilst you’re on the town, akin to outside sculpture exhibitions, Texas hen walks and botanical cocktail hours. Lightscape transforms the grounds right into a fantastical artwork set up within the winter (November by early January).
3. Take a stroll alongside the River Stroll
A slice of Europe within the coronary heart of downtown, the River Walk contains a scenic community of canals and pedestrian walkways that stretch for greater than a dozen miles. The meandering waterside paths lie just under the downtown streets, which means you’ll by no means need to cease for visitors as you stroll previous landscaped gardens and waterside cafes, or linger on cypress-shaded footbridges that crisscross the water. On sizzling days, you’ll be able to get pleasure from your riverside stroll with agua frescas bought by road distributors. These fruit drinks are excellent for refreshing drained companions and cranky children alike.
Commercial
Planning tip: For an summary of the River Stroll, hop aboard an eco-friendly river cruise operated by Go Rio.
4. See creative masterpieces on the McNay Artwork Museum
Set in a Spanish-Colonial Revival mansion 5 miles north of downtown, the McNay has been turning heads because it opened in 1954. The state’s first trendy artwork museum has a formidable assortment of works courting all the way in which again to the Center Ages. It is notably sturdy on paintings from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, with items by Matisse, Modigliani, Picasso, Van Gogh, Georgia O’Keeffe and numerous different luminaries.
The McNay additionally levels a few of the most thought-provoking exhibitions within the metropolis. Current exhibits have grappled with the Black expertise throughout generations, life within the borderlands and unmasking Asian-American stereotypes. You may additionally uncover cutting-edge multimedia artists, avant-garde costume makers and folks artists working outdoors the academy.
Detour: Earlier than or after visiting the museum, have a meal at Paloma Blanca, an artfully designed restaurant serving a few of San Antonio’s greatest Mexican delicacies.
5. Go to the historic Spanish missions on two wheels
Almost everybody touring to San Antonio pays a go to to the Alamo, however many don’t notice that the previous church is only one of 5 missions across the metropolis. Constructed within the 18th century, these hanging monuments make up the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park; in 2015 they have been additionally declared a UNESCO World Heritage Web site – the one one in Texas.
Whilst you can go to by automotive, it is extra enjoyable to go inexperienced and lease a motorbike for a scenic experience that follows principally alongside the San Antonio River Stroll. The leafy Hike & Bike Path begins close to the Alamo and leads you three miles south to Mission Concepción, the oldest unrestored stone church in America. One other 2.5 miles alongside, you’ll attain Mission San José, generally known as the “queen of the missions” for its massive measurement. Farther alongside, Mission San Juan has a sublime simplicity to its design, whereas tiny Mission Espada is among the many most photogenic of the 5.
6. Wander amid the dinosaurs on the Witte Museum
One of many best things to do in San Antonio for families is to spend the afternoon on the Witte (pronounced “witty”). Exhibitions at this pure historical past museum take you again by the ages, overlaying the Cretaceous interval, regional wildlife and the disparate teams of peoples who’ve crisscrossed Texas.
Planning tip: Bexar County residents can lower your expenses by visiting on Tuesday afternoons, when the museum affords free admission from 3pm to 6pm.
7. Discover the buying and eating scene on the Pearl
As soon as the most important employer in San Antonio, the historic Pearl Brewery right now homes a posh containing indie retailers and cafes, eating places and the Hotel Emma, among the many metropolis’s greatest boutique motels. Uncover a brand new writer on the Twig Book Shop and browse for present concepts at Feliz Modern Pop.
Over two dozen consuming and ingesting spots on the Pearl supply loads of selection. You’ll be able to discover the eclectic influences of South Texas delicacies at Carriqui with its mixture of Gulf seafood, pit-smoked barbecue and conventional Mexican staples. Southerleigh has inventive cooking whereas preserving the Pearl’s brewing traditions alive with 15 totally different beers produced in home.
Planning tip: Go to on Saturdays (9am to 1pm) to choose up contemporary produce from Texas growers and munch your approach by meals stands on the weekly Pearl Farmers Market. On Sundays (10am to 2pm), Pearl hosts a Makers Market, with artisans promoting their pottery, goat milk cleaning soap and different wares.
8. Hearken to dwell music in Luckenbach
Should you’re seeking a pleasant day trip from San Antonio, hop within the automotive and head north (about an hour’s drive) to Luckenbach. There you’ll be able to take heed to dwell music below the oak timber whereas sipping a chilly bottle of Shiner Bock. The previous German settlement has only a handful of previous wood buildings, together with a common retailer and a saloon, however on weekends attracts guests for boot scootin’ within the atmospheric dancehall. On weekdays, anticipate low-key acoustic jams.
Planning tip: Get your driving soundtrack good by listening to the well-known Waylon Jennings music. In “Luckenbach, Texas (Again to the Fundamentals of Love)” you’ll additionally hear some visitor vocals by Willie Nelson, a longtime fan of the tiny Texas enclave.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
Travel
How the federal government shutdown impacts journey – ABC Information – Breaking Information, Newest Information and Movies
Celebrities5 months agoBen Shephard’s relationship ‘settlement’ with spouse Annie as he points her warning
Entertainment2 years agoAny person Get Snowboarder Brin Alexander an Invite to the Pure Choice Tour
Celebrities3 months agoBeloved Gogglebox couple reveal ‘axe’ from Channel 4 sequence
Travel2 years agoBelize on a finances – Lonely Planet
Travel2 years ago8 of the very best locations to go to within the Bahamas
Celebrities2 years agoDemi Moore & Her Daughters Might Be Quadruplets at Oscars After-Social gathering
Travel2 years agoThe 8 finest international locations for digital nomads and distant working
Recepies2 years agoTake heed to The Nation on-line with Jamie Mackay: Zanda McDonald winners and hard occasions for sheep and beef