Travel
Finest day journeys from Hong Kong
Hong Kong is likely one of the world’s nice city playgrounds, however this place has one other facet to its persona past the gleaming skyscrapers and procuring malls.
Three-quarters of the territory is inexperienced, dotted with climbing trails and secluded seashores, to not point out dozens of outlying islands bobbing within the South China Sea, some simply a straightforward ferry experience away. With the mainland megacities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou related to central Hong Kong by high-speed practice, the probabilities for wider exploration are huge.
Listed here are eight of the most effective one-day excursions to boost your subsequent Hong Kong journey.
1. Take a cable automotive to Po Lin Monastery and the Massive Buddha
Journey time: 1 hour and half-hour
A pilgrimage to the serene Tian Tan Buddha within the lush hills of Lantau is necessary for Hong Kong newbies. Clocking in at 34m (112ft) excessive (podium included), this bronze icon faces the Po Lin Monastery, a sprawling Buddhist complicated linked to Tung Chung (the principle city on Lantau) by cable automotive. The scenic 5.7km (3.5-mile) journey affords sweeping views of Tung Chung Bay and, for plane-spotters, the bustle of Hong Kong Airport.
Tips on how to get to Po Lin Monastery from Central: Experience the MTR from Hong Kong station to Tung Chung (35 minutes) after which take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Automotive for the ultimate leg of the journey (25 minutes). You may also take the ferry to Mui Wo after which get bus 2.
2. Admire Hong Kong’s final remaining stilt homes at Tai O
Journey time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Traditionally the house of the Tanka boat individuals, the fishing village of Tai O is an atmospheric maze of again alleys and road markets, however its massive draw is a photogenic cluster of conventional stilt homes teetering over the water, some with a historical past spanning again 200 years. To increase your journey, think about an evening’s keep on the boutique-styled Tai O Heritage Hotel, housed in a transformed police station inbuilt 1902.
Tips on how to get to Tai O from Central: Experience the MTR from Hong Kong station to Tung Chung (33 minutes) after which take bus 11 to Tai O (one hour). In any other case, take the ferry to Mui Wo after which change to bus 1.
3. Hang around on Lamma, Hong Kong’s hippy island
Journey time: half-hour
With its hidden seashores, car-free paths and countercultural vibes, laidback Lamma Island is the proper tonic for when the hustle of Hong Kong will get an excessive amount of. Yung Shue Wan is the principle village, with cafes, vegetarian eating places and new-age outlets aplenty. Throughout the island at Sok Kwu Wan, take your decide from a string of seafood eating places serving dishes like steamed entire grouper or fried clams with black bean sauce.
Tips on how to get to Lamma Island from Central: Take a ferry from Central’s Outlying Islands ferry terminal (pier 4) to both Yung Shue Wan pier or Sok Kwu Wan pier.
4. Discover the Portuguese heritage of Macau
Journey time: 1 hour and half-hour
Macau is perhaps often known as China’s Las Vegas for its casinos, however the island was a Portuguese colony for 300 years and retains pockets of European colonial structure. Admire the ruins of the Church of St Paul, a Seventeenth-century cathedral, graze on Portuguese custard tarts within the previous city heart after which experience the cable automotive as much as Guia Fortress, a historic army complicated containing China’s first lighthouse and a chapel constructed by Portuguese nuns.
Tips on how to get to Macau from Central: Take the MTR one cease to Sheung Wan after which catch a high-speed ferry from the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal to the Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal (one hour).
5. Experience the bullet practice to mainland China
Journey time: 45 minutes
The Chinese language megacity of Shenzhen is simply minutes away from Hong Kong by bullet practice. Past the bragging rights of constructing it to the mainland, Shenzhen affords guests dazzling trendy structure; a thriving arts, procuring and eating scene; and a few deliciously retro theme parks. Better of all, you’ll be able to decide up a short lived visa on the border crossing with minimal fuss, although you are not permitted to journey past the Shenzhen Particular Financial Zone.
Tips on how to get to Shenzhen from Central: If you have already got a visa, take the MTR to West Kowloon station, undergo immigration after which catch the high-speed practice to Futian Station (14 minutes). For those who want a visa, experience the MTR to the Luohu border crossing as a substitute (one hour) and get a five-day visa on arrival (vacationers from most international locations are eligible) on the spot.
6. Marvel on the otherworldly surroundings of Hong Kong World Geopark
Journey time: 2 hours
Hong Kong Global Geopark, a UNESCO-listed pure playground, is residence to gorgeous and surreal volcanic rock columns and sea caves. Tour operators run boat, kayak and SUP excursions into the Geopark, however you too can make a journey to the High Island Reservoir East Dam and rise up shut with out leaving dry land. The Volcano Discovery Center in Sai Kung advises on the most effective methods to discover.
Tips on how to get to Hong Kong World Geopark from Central: Take the MTR to Choi Hung station (half-hour) after which take Hong Kong Inexperienced Minibus 1 to Sai Kung Pier and the Geopark Volcano Discovery Heart (35 minutes).
7. Go temple and seashore hopping on Cheung Chau Island
Journey time: 1 hour
With its white-sand seashores, characterful villages and Taoist temples, Cheung Chau Island makes a pleasant day journey from central Hong Kong. Make sure you hike or bike your technique to the island’s southwestern nook to relax by the Reclining Rocks, picnic elective. The normally tranquil island packs out annually for the Cheung Chau Bun Pageant, a spectacular occasion of parades, “floating kids” (youngsters standing on parade scaffolding carried by way of the streets) and a race up bamboo towers to grab the sacred bun.
Tips on how to get to Cheung Chau from Central: Take a ferry from Central’s Outlying Islands ferry terminal (pier 5), both common (one hour) or quick (40 minutes).
8. Hike and swim in unspoiled Sai Kung
Journey time: 2 hours
One of many final havens left in Hong Kong for hikers and swimmers, Sai Kung affords trails by way of pristine surroundings to secluded coves and picture-perfect seashores. The Tai Lengthy Wan Mountaineering Path passes 4 attractive seashores with some steep climbs and delightful views alongside the route. You may discover eating spots at Sai Wan and Ham Tin seashores, and it is even doable to camp on the sand, or you’ll be able to head again to Sai Kung Town by speedboat and have dinner on the waterfront.
Tips on how to get to Sai Kung from Central: Experience the MTR to Choi Hung station (half-hour) after which take Hong Kong Inexperienced Minibus 1 to Sai Kung Pier (35 minutes). Take a taxi to the Excessive Island Reservoir East Dam (half-hour) for the total hike, or get a taxi to Sai Wan Pavilion for a one-hour hike to the seashore.
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.
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