Travel
On my first vacation overseas, I discovered the ‘secret’ Greek island vacationers haven’t ruined but
The little-known Greek island of Antiparos places its well-known neighbours to disgrace.
Positioned 51km southwest of Mykonos, this hidden gem has all of the appeal with not one of the crowds — for a fraction of the value.
With a €150 finances, I lined eight days of supermarket groceries and handmade souvenirs, plus loads of gyros and taverna journeys.
It was my first vacation exterior the UK, and I’d heard horror tales: rowdy Brits battling for sunbeds in 30°C warmth. On the ferry from Athens, my abdomen was in knots imagining the throngs of vacationers I’d discover at my last vacation spot.
However on the final leg of my journey, a brief boat experience from Pounta to Antiparos, I realised I’d stumbled throughout a spot few foreigners go to. The ferry that greeted me was virtually abandoned and price simply €1.50 for the journey.
Because the Aegean Sea gave method to golden sands, tiny Antiparos revealed its secluded coves and abandoned seashores. Right here’s what I noticed and did in part of Greece few folks attain.
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Issues to do
Every summer time, Greece’s megawatt islands are overrun by tourists. Eating places have been shamed for charging €18 a cocktail, and seaside resorts are stuffed to max-capacity. Standard islands, akin to Mykonos and Santorini, struggle under the weight of their own success.
Antiparos, alternatively, stays blissfully unspoiled.
The island’s crown jewel is the Cave of Agios Ioannis, open each day from 10am to 4pm. Plunging 85 metres, it’s dwelling to the oldest stalactite in Europe, at a mind-bending 45 million years outdated. Admission prices €6, with a 50% low cost for youngsters aged 6-12.
Psaralyki Seaside is my best choice for shallow water perfect for swimming, and timber that present welcome shade. Panagia Seaside is one other picturesque choice providing a bit of extra privateness and softer sands.
In the event you’re trying to do greater than fly and flop, boat excursions will take you to the uninhabited island of Despotiko and the ocean caves that encompass it.
Whereas there are future plans for an open-air museum, at the moment it homes the excavation web site of the Sixth-century Temple of Apollo. This historical Greek god of arts, fact, and therapeutic is without doubt one of the most influential; legend has it he invented archery.
Nightlife on Antiparos is surprisingly upbeat. Doorways, the oldest bar on the island, is a should go to if you happen to’re up for dancing the night time away to Europop bangers. Disco La Luna, beneficial to me by locals, proves you don’t have to go to a celebration island to have a very good time.
Finest locations to eat
Like all journey to Greece, my impression of Antiparos trusted the standard of its meals — it didn’t disappoint.
The very best days started with breakfast at Blender. Their Instagrammable pancakes and loaded bagels (washed down with a €3 smoothie) had been wonderful.
I made a each day lunchtime pilgrimage to Grillhouse: To Ntopio for his or her mouth-watering €4 gyros. By the tip of my go to, I used to be thought of an everyday.
Klimataria Tavern is undoubtedly the island’s most stunning restaurant. With a menu that includes recent moussaka, dolmades, fava, and seafood, it persistently left me opening a button or two by the tip of the night time.
Vicky’s Ice Cream, providing near 40 totally different flavours, is an reasonably priced choice for candy treats.
The place to buy
Antiparos is off the primary vacationer observe and at occasions, it might probably really feel a bit of sleepy.
However Chora city gives a way of close-knit neighborhood you don’t discover in mainstream vacation hotspots. Lining the streets are bougainvillea timber that bow their vivid heads in greeting, and there are an honest vary of unbiased retailers.
Chora has a dozen vogue boutiques promoting summer time clothes, handmade jewelry and woven purses.
The island prides itself on native craftsmanship, with artisan workshops that includes customized woodworks, pottery, and painted by hand ceramics.
The place to remain
In contrast to Greece’s mainstream vacationer islands, Antiparos has not been crippled by overdevelopment.
Quick-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have contributed to overtourism in a number of European cities, with tens of hundreds of vacation listings pricing locals out of reasonably priced properties.
However on Antiparos, unbiased accommodations and family-run summer time homes make up the majority of lodging. There’s a sense that locals have a real curiosity within the individuals who go to.
I stayed at Kastro Home, metres from the primary sq. and overlooking the traditional Kastro (citadel) courtyard. Courting again to the 1400s, the view was nicely definitely worth the £60 per night time.
Find out how to get there
In the event you’re flying from the UK, direct flights from London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports will get you to Athens in 4 hours.
From Athens, take the prepare to Piraeus. Trains run each half-hour, and price €10 one-way for a one-hour journey (half-price tickets can be found for youngsters, college students and seniors).
Leaving Piraeus station, cross the pedestrian overpass to the port and observe the indicators to the gate of your departure ferry. Blue Star Ferries and Seajets will get you to Parikia, Paros in underneath three hours. One-way tickets begin at €40 throughout peak season.
When you’ve reached the port of Parikia in Paros, a 20-30 minute boat experience to Antiparos completes the ultimate leg of your journey. Tickets from €2-€5.
Alternatively, Pounta port (roughly an 8-minute taxi experience away) gives extra frequent crossings, a sooner 10-minute journey, and €1.50 tickets.
Finest time to go to
Surprisingly, late June is the right time to go to if you happen to’re after an brisk buzz. On Antiparos, vacationer season has not but peaked, with bars and golf equipment solely beginning to open their doorways for the summer time.
For a sleepy island expertise and abandoned seashores, begin your journey earlier, in Might. Temperatures common 26-27°C, and the coastal breeze retains the warmth at bay.
Fearful about money? Many institutions welcome card cost strategies. If not, Antiparos has a number of ATMs throughout the city.
To avoid wasting on additional spending, I made use of the Faroupos grocery store promoting recent produce to prepare dinner within the Airbnb.
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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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