Eastbourne Pier is a must-visit destination if you're in the area! The pier beautifully blends Victorian charm with modern-day attractions, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline, especially during sunset. What really impressed me was the variety of food options available right on the pier. From traditional fish and chips to sweet treats and ice creams, there's something for everyone — and the best part? There are several halal food options available too, which is fantastic for Muslim visitors. I came across a few spots serving halal burgers, grilled chicken, and even doner kebabs — all clearly labeled and freshly prepared. The food was not only delicious but also reasonably priced, making it a great place for a casual meal with a view. There are also plenty of seating areas to enjoy your food while soaking in the sea breeze. In addition to the food, the pier has amusement arcades, souvenir shops, and a lovely tea room, making it a great place to spend a few hours with family or friends. Everything was clean and well-maintained, and the staff at the food outlets were friendly and helpful. All in all, Eastbourne Pier offers a complete experience — scenic views, great food (with halal options!), and fun activities. Highly recommended for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Great fun, old fashioned pier. Free entry. Fish and chips, tea rooms, fishing, arcade, sticks of rock. What more do you want.

Very nice place for a stroll and some family time. Went for the airbourne show this year and it is definitely a must see every year. Personally, I enjoy going to Eastbourne pier on a regular basis as it is fun and parking is not difficult. The seaside is lovely and there's plenty of places to have a snack.

Lovely four day break, nice hotel, nice clean town, pleasant local people. Great shops, great pier ,well looked after, with plenty of seating. Nice bar and fish and chips while listening to live music. Worth a visit.

Eastbourne pierThe structure of Eastbourne pier is a remarkable feat of engineering, stretching gracefully into the sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions and entertainment options along its length. It has become a beloved landmark, offering stunning views of the coastline. The pier's history has seen moments of triumph and resilience, shaping its enduring presence. A stroll along the pier is a delightful experience for all ages.

Beautiful Victorian pier with cafés and arcades. A lovely place for a stroll and to enjoy the sea views. Can feel a bit touristy, but still very charming.

A decent place to go, especially during the summer. The pier has a good selection of places to eat and the pub at the end of the pier is good and has live music, just watch out for those seagulls! There is a live music venue, but you will need tickets for it. The Seven Sisters is definitely worth a hike if that’s your kind of thing.

Had a lovely day out here plenty of animals to see,some were hiding in their beds as it was a bit chilly but you could peep at them there. There's walk through areas to get up close. Plenty of food and drink cafes dotted through the zoo and picnic benches too. Definitely worth a visit.

Love a zoo trip!! such an enjoyable experience. Great variety of animals to see and even though it can be very busy you still see and enjoy it all. The animals all have great spacious enclosures and plenty of items in for them to enjoy. There is plenty of things to see and to do which is great. The Gift shop at the end is brilliant as well, has a great variety of things for all ages.

What an amazing zoological zoo. It's started off as wet and windy but cleared up as there was many indoor areas to visit. The meerkats took abit of coaching to get them outside but eventually came out. Feeding the giraffes was really good and exciting for the children. Well grown ups. The staff were really helpful and knew exactly where to send you when lost for the next adventure around the park. So many animals and looked in good care. Lots of schools visiting which was good to see. Well done teams.

Had a very nice day. Very nice experience during the visit. The zoo is very easy to find with plenty of parking. The staff is very nice and helpful. You can stroll around the park in a relaxing enjoyable atmosphere. The zoo is easily accesible for wheel chair users and the benches around the park come in handy for those who have issues walking longer distances. The zoo beeing situated in a field away from towns, villages is very nice and gives you a better touch with nature. The large animal section is very nice. Also note that animals might take a nap exactly when you want to film or take a photo of them...with patience you can still catch them moving around. The restaurant offers good food and you can enjoy the food outside in nice weather. Kids playground close to the restaurant. Toilets also around the park are clean. You can get a ride on a mini train. The souvenir shop is nicely organised, affordable prices. The plush animals are very nicely made. Definitely worth a day visiting. Best to buy tickets in advance. You'll find a nice biodiversity animal range. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Better buy tickets in advance or an year pass if you plan to visit more times.

Really enjoyable day and a huge variety of animals to see. It’s really well laid out and the animals all looked happy. The Africa section was impressive. The elephants and giraffes seemed happy. Every turn you took there was something new to discover. Food options were a bit hit and miss with long waits for average not even hot food. That was the only down side but went for the animals hence the 5 star review. The green anacondas were stunning as were the chimpanzees

I had an absolutely fantastic time visiting Colchester Zoo! One of the highlights of the day was the amazing train ride that took us on a scenic journey around the park, giving us a chance to see the majority of the animals from a unique and relaxing perspective. It was such a fun and convenient way to explore the zoo. Another great feature was the variety of informative talks held at different animal enclosures throughout the day. These talks gave us the chance to learn more about the animals, their behaviors, and conservation efforts, all while getting a closer look at them. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. Overall, it was a brilliant experience—perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves animals. Highly recommend visiting Colchester Zoo for a memorable and educational day out!

A great day out. I came with my six and ten year old and they loved the day. We didn't get to see all the animals but we did see most of them. We were there from 11.30 to 6pm l. There were plenty of places to sit and eat lunch/snacks. Lots of playgrounds, exhibits and interactive places.

Our kids love this place, we go every year for the day. Great price for entry and half price after 5pm. Open till late, plenty to do in the area. Carers can get a wristband for half price, up to two Carers but you need to buy tickets on the day at the park itself. Other tickets can be brought online or on the day.

Great rides for £35 per day per head or half price after 5pm. Or £4 per ride if you want fewer rides. I had 6 and 11 year old and both enjoyed.

As a family we have been coming for a long time. The wrist bands are really worth while buying ahead of time as long as you go on at least 5 rides it’s worth it. We did wait for one ride as it broke down and my daughter couldn’t get out one as the harness got stuck for everyone. The rides are fun. The only down side for us was we got a pancake at the end of the evening and there were three staff just mucking about and not really serving. They were laughing at each other and shouting. Other members of the public were not happy as we waited nearly 20 mins. I don’t mind people having fun but they were meant to be working and it was more like a social gathering for them.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Adventure Island, Southend-on-Sea What an absolutely amazing experience! 🎢 Adventure Island is truly the happiest little amusement park by the sea! The moment you enter, you can feel the excitement and energy all around. It’s beautifully maintained, super clean, and offers something for everyone — from thrilling rides for adventure lovers to gentle ones for kids and families. The staff are cheerful, helpful, and always ready to make your day better. The sea view adds a special charm to the whole experience — imagine riding a roller coaster with waves in the background! 🌊 Food stalls, games, and the overall vibe make it a perfect full-day outing. Whether you go with family or friends, you’re bound to make wonderful memories here. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Southend-on-Sea! ❤️ [ Adventure Island Southend-on-Sea, amusement park, family fun, seaside rides, thrill rides, UK travel ] #AdventureIsland #SouthendOnSea #FamilyFun #UKAdventures #SeasideVibes #ThemeParkFun

We visited on the first day of our week holiday. We went for the annual pass as the children will want to visit again and the pass also gets discounts for food, shop etc. We are now on day 3 and going again! Well worth the money! The queues are very quick, we could wait nearby and see them in the queue for the majority of the rides. I wanted to go on a couple of rides so bought some ride tickets separately (no need for a day or annual pass for me 🤣)

VISIT DATE: SAT 20/09/2025 VISIT TIME: 13:30 - 20:00 Adventure Island is a fantastic place to visit if you have children and are in the Southend area. We’re based in Hornchurch, about an hour away by car, or you can also travel quite easily via C2C from Upminster, so my ex and I have visited a number of times with our daughter, starting when she was 3 (she’s now 6). The park promotes itself as free entry, but no one is going to come just to walk through it, so the reality is that you’ll need to get a day pass to take advantage of the rides. At time of writing, it’s £35 for the day, but you can save £10 by purchasing online in advance. If you’re planning to go more than once, then it makes sense to upgrade to an annual pass. These are currently on sale at £50 and do not start until the first time you go. If your child is under 120cm tall, you won’t need your own pass, as they need someone taller (and at least 14 years old) to ride with them. As you’d expect, during the summer, or on character event days, the park is very busy, so there are queues for rides, but going off season reduces this dramatically. We were really blessed with a quiet day, so barely any queuing time, all rides open, with the exception of one, which was closed due to a mechanical issue and the park and rides were open till 8pm. It was also a warm day - being inside the park means that you are sheltered from the wind coming off the Thames Estuary, so even when it’s breezy, you don’t really feel it. There are a variety of rides, with plenty of slower ones for younger children, or those who don’t like faster stuff. Oh these, we really like Adventureville and Spooksville (which is the “scary” version, in darkness and with models of monsters and clowns, as well as appropriate sound effects), and you’ve also got stuff like little trains and boats and the best Crooked House ever, which has been an attraction on the site since 1949, surviving the great flood of 1953 and various ownership changes and developments over the years. I loved this attraction as a child and my daughter loves it too! There are also a number of rollercoasters, with more gentle ones, then building up to Rage, which has a vertical drop and loops. My daughter is looking forward to being tall enough to do that, but she’ll be going on with her Dad when that time comes, not me! There is also a water slide and an indoor area, Adventure Inside, which features a few more rides, including a traditional carousel (my personal favourite) and a decent sized soft play. Staff at the park are generally young, so they have lots of enthusiasm (if we lived nearer, I’d probably encourage my daughter to apply when she’s older, as I think it’s probably a pretty fun working environment, as well as quite hard work) and they are also friendly and helpful when you need anything. As well as the rides that are included in with your entry, there are also plenty of stalls encouraging you to spend more, like “Hook-a-Duck”, which my daughter loves. This is where having an annual pass is beneficial, as you get 20% discount on purchases, including from the food and drink stalls, of which there are also many! Personally, we recommend avoiding the restaurants inside the park as they’re not that great and there are loads of really nice local places a few minutes walk away which deserve supporting. You can also spend money on a Funtopia gamecard, to use on the many games machines in the arcade areas. You can pay to play with a debit / credit card, but the Funtopia card gives you extra credit and allows you to collect points which can be exchanged for prizes. Annual pass also gives you extra credit! Plenty of toilets in the park, including accessible and baby change. All in reasonable condition throughout the day. Overall, we really enjoy visiting and will continue to do so; it’s a great day out on its own, but when you add the other nearby attractions to the mix (Sealife Adventure, Southend Pier, spending time on the beach and in the water when it’s warm enough), this is a fabulous place to visit.

Discounted tickets after 5pm. Got to be quick if you want to do all the rides. Rage was the best. 2cm too short for two. Height checks in que. Ferris wheel took ages. Some ride staff were brilliant. Got wet on the green water slide. Toilets at either end. Plenty of places for food and drink. A good enough park to say you've done.

​I had a truly fantastic trip to Leeds Castle. This place is awesome—it genuinely feels like a jewel in a crown. ​While the entry cost is significant, it is absolutely worth the price because there is SO MUCH TO DO, making it an easy full-day trip. Even better, your ticket allows you to return for a whole year! ​The grounds are magnificent and incredibly varied, featuring beautiful hilly areas, serene lakes, and varied walled garden areas. Don't miss the maze, the epic-looking children's playground, the Birds of Prey display, and the unique and fun Dog Collar Museum (the only one, I believe!). Inside the castle is amazing, filled with great displays and information. ​What really stands out is the clear investment and the incredible staff. The whole operation is so well-organized, and there are countless staff members who were universally friendly, kind, and helpful. ​The café was especially great! The food was good, and the Lemon Drizzle Cake was absolutely sublime—a perfect break during the day. ​Plus, you can buy duck food in the gift shop—a small touch, but very fun for feeding the birds! Highly, highly recommend this incredible historical gem.

Wow, Leeds castle was stunning. Set in the countryside, the drive up to the castle you knew it was going to be spectacular and we weren't disappointed. The grounds are stunning. It just got better and better, the Maze, Falconry, castle. The food was good here and the restaurant was superb. There was a boat ride available on the lake, Go-Ape, play areas. You could easily spend a day here. The staff were polite and knowledgeable and the castle itself is steeped in history.

An absolute gem — the most beautiful castle in the UK! If you’re visiting Kent or anywhere in the UK, this is the castle you can’t miss. What makes it truly special isn’t just the castle itself, but the breathtaking landscape surrounding it — every view feels like a postcard. There’s something here for everyone: an incredible adventure play area for kids of all ages (the maze is a must!), a stunning collection of birds, and a truly entertaining eagle and owl show that keeps both adults and children mesmerized. Take your time strolling through the gardens and woodlands on your way in — and on your way back, hop on the charming little train or relax on the scenic boat ride. Both are experiences in their own right. The castle grounds have plenty of great dining options, from cozy cafés to proper restaurants, so you won’t have to worry about food. Plus, they host brilliant seasonal events throughout the year — whether it’s a medieval festival, light trail, or Christmas market, there’s always something new to enjoy. The ticket you buy gives you unlimited entry for a full year — which is perfect, because once you’ve been, you’ll definitely want to come back. Ample of free car park. I suggest booking your entry ticket online in case it's busy.

Leeds Castle is absolutely breathtaking — a true fairytale setting surrounded by beautiful gardens and a serene lake. The castle is rich in history and wonderfully preserved, offering fascinating exhibits and lovely walks around the grounds. The location is peaceful, and the atmosphere feels magical from the moment you arrive. A must-visit in Kent and one of the most beautiful castles in England!

Absolutely stunning castle afloat it's moat. Beautiful gardens as well, especially the Mediterranean area. Enjoyed seeing all the various sculptures around the gardens. Lots to see and do. Fun maze to get lost in. The castle itself is amazing and beautiful inside. Had a lovely chat with one of the volunteer guides. He informed us that sadly no black swans currently at the castle due to avian flu 🥲. You can have a boat trip on tge lake but this costs extra on top of the admission price!

We stayed in accommodation on site, marvelous location for a three night stay. Beautiful landscape and gardens, use of all facilities on site during our stay, castle is a fascinating place to visit with lovely walks in the grounds, a visit to the birds of pray is a good choice. All the staff are amazing and friendly and helpful.

Lovely historic castle with plenty of interest other than the main building, beautiful grounds and lakes, there's a small road train shuttle from near the entrance to the castle, which is about a ten minute walk from the entrance, £1.50 each way. The falconry display is a must, the staff that do this are very knowledgeable about their subject, and don't forget to duck !! 😃 All in all a great day out. Oh and dont forget the small lake ferry and maze.

Went on a Thursday, a week day. Large cathedral, bigger than expected. It did have some construction ongoing outside so that did affect the pictures of the building. Staff and volunteers inside were friendly and happy to tell you a lot about the history, for free. Ticket office staff also helpful explaining the differences in tickets. Very quick and easy. Cathedral probably needs two visits and definitely a tour guide to fully appreciate. There is a cafe and restaurant, and even a hotel. Toilet facilities were adequate. Good places to sit and read if you need a break also. Definitely will return.

Very impressed. More than expected. Magnificent architecture. Huge, light, airy and less dark and oppressive when compared with Westminster Abbey. Beautiful ceilings and stained glass and extensive history. Less ‘tombs’ and fortunately less busy midweek. During our visit a Chaplain addressed all visitors briefly from the pulpit, and offered a prayer, using the cathedral for it’s intended purpose as a place of worship - not a tourist attraction - as it should be. The entry fee to the Cathedral is very reasonable considering the cost of maintaining the building and overseeing visitors. We paid an additional small sum for a guided tour which was exceptional. Lucky to get a ticket. The volunteer gave us a lot of insight into the development of Christianity in the UK, the various phases of the Church during different occupations and global conflicts, the murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170 AD, the destruction of his shrine by King Henry VIII in 1538, all wrapped up with visiting the different areas of the building and outlining the many extensions and renovations over 1000 years! Wonderful learning experience.

A beautiful and peaceful place to spend the day. You can wander around the whole site taking in all of the history and story of the cathedral. There is plenty to see inside both in the crypt and the main floor. You can walk through the entire cathedral. There are places set aside for prayer and quiet contemplation. The outside areas are quiet and interesting to look at. Since the building has been cleaned on the outside you get a good feel for the surroundings and what it would have looked like when it was built. Hearing the bells on the hour was magical and seeing the places where St Thomas was murdered and the site of his tomb before it was destroyed in the reformation makes you stop and think. A fantastic day and a day of learning is never wasted. One day I will return to learn some more. Thank you.

Beautiful Cathedral inside and outside. Very well maintained. You might need two days to walk around inside and outside, lovely gardens with lots of historical information. We thought it was free to enter, but it wasn't. We brought tickets either £19 or £21.00 each (don't remember exactly) they are valid for 12 months from the day of purchase. Just as well really, we thought they opened early on Sunday mornings, but they don't they have Sunday service and they open at 12.30. We had planned to go somewhere else and couldn't wait that long. We managed to walk around inside on Saturday morning early when it was quiet. The cathedral echos when people are talking, it looses it's essence of peace and solidtude. Definitely check the opening and closing times when planning a visit, it isn't visible from the outside of the cathedral which currently has scaffolding surrounding it for maintenance work. I will definitely go back to walk around the remainder of the cathedral before our tickets expire.

Went for a short stay to see Cathedral and town. So historic and interesting. (Museum was great too...and free! ). Went to a choral evensong with the school girls choir, in the Cathedral....beautiful. Next day toured the Cathedral and amazing Crypt. Well worth the money. Walking outside to other historic sites in the Cathedral area, afterwards. We didn't book tickets,as at the beginning of November, it was not busy.

Stunning... Just walking around this magnificent building is a delight... And there's no charges. So with a beautiful cathedral and a lovely quaint town with plenty of food options you definitely cannot go wrong for a good day out..

The Cathedral is truly a jewel of medieval architecture. The town, where Charles Dickens once lived for a while, has its own magic. You can feel the atmosphere of English life, away from the hustle and bustle of London (in a certain sense, it conveyed this to me). In the winter, it comes alive with university student life, and I think the pace of daily life changes, but despite everything, it remains beautiful to visit, perhaps even better.

Absolutely a fantastic place to visit oozing with history. The site is large so allow plenty of time. It's also hilly and within the castle there is a lot of stairs. The tunnels under the castle were fascinating especially if you have an interest in WWII. Though they date back to the late 1700s. Tours are run at regular intervals and the staff are extremely knowledgeable. All staff were helpful and nice. We were able to park on site but I imagine school holidays could cause an issue sometimes. There's is a carpack for disabled drivers much closer and on a flatter level near the castle itself. Plenty of toilets dotted around the grounds and a cafe and ice cream van as well as one serving hot drinks and snacks. Small p.ay area with climbing equipment for children. Great views over Dover and the port. Also visit the Saxon Church that is within the grounds.

Was a wonderful visit,went there with a friend of mine and we explored everything the castle had to offer. Under the castle there are some interesting tunnels with a lot of interesting stories. You will learn a bit about the war and the importance of the castle in the past. It's worth the money.

You could easily spend a whole day here visiting the various sections of the large site. Of special interest to us were the Secret War Tunnels. It is a 30-minute tour with an informed and entertaining guide. (Unfortunately no photos allowed.) There is no extra fee for the tour. It is included with your entrance fee. There is also a tour of the hospital tunnels which we didn’t have time to take but would have been interested to see. We also enjoyed seeing the castle which is furnished in replicas from the period which we didn’t expect. Again, the attendants were friendly and informed. On a nice day there are lovely picnic area to enjoy.

Fabulous day out at this historic English heritage site. Plenty to do. Good value. Had nice lunch , not overpriced. Visited war tunnels and walk round and in castle and grounds. Great views over countryside and out towards france.

Travelled from Folkestone to visit the Castle on my way home to London and could have kicked myself as id left my bank card at the hotel so didn't manage to get inside the castle which was a disappointment. The grounds are stunning and the views over the harbour are exceptional.

There is so much to see here - definitely plan enough time! I would recommend buying tickets online, if you can. If not, you can drive up and park, then walk inside and purchase tickets in the gift shop in the main castle area at the top of the hill. The grounds are really well maintained and the staff is so friendly and helpful! The various tours close early, so be sure to hit them first, then tour the rest at your leisure. We started at the top, toured the tunnels, then went and did the two tours at the bottom before making the trek back up. (I would recommend this route) There is a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes! The views are incredible and there is so much to see. The only thing we weren’t a big fan of was the gaudy colors of the decorations in the main castle - they reminded us of a children’s play set - but that’s just our opinion. It definitely didn’t dampen the experience! There are ample restroom facilities located all around the property. It seemed like the kind of place that might be difficult to maneuver in a manual wheelchair, but we don’t use a wheelchair so there might be accommodations we didn’t see. Overall, it was a wonderful experience!

Brilliant place to visit. Be prepared to spend all day. Lots to see and do.Great tower, keep,old church and ancient lighthouse, ramparts, secret defence tunnels, wartime tunnels,various exhibitions, battlements, glorious views across Dover and the Channel. Definitely a English Heritage jewel.

We visited D on a weekday during the holidays, and it was an awesome experience! The aquarium offers a wonderful opportunity to view and learn about a wide variety of sea creatures. It's both fun and educational, especially for kids. They will definitely enjoy the interactive exhibits and get a chance to gain knowledge about marine life. The display of different types of sea fishes—from colorful reef species to large predators—is truly fascinating. The environment is well-maintained and family-friendly, making it a perfect holiday outing. Highly recommended for families looking for an engaging and informative day out! Recommended to visit in the morning session to avoid the crowds.

This should definitely be on any to do list if in or around the Boulogne area. Worth the money and time we'll spent. Would recommend leaving at least 4 hours as there is plenty to see and the large tank is truly amazing. Was shocked when seeing the large manta ray emerge from the darkness for the first time. It's also very educational so would highly recommend. Will go again next time I'm in the area

The most amazing experience! 3 main exhibits, the first of which I spent more then two hours in, gazing at the largest aquarium in Europe was comfortable, spacious and signs were easily translated. Many of the staff were bilingual and so helpful! There were little spots to eat including a restaurant, clean restrooms and lockers to store your belongings. Outside the front of Nausicaa is also a lovely green area with children's play park and access to watch the sea lions! There was so much information accessible and interactive activities to keep children engaged whilst being educational. I will absolutely return here one day!

This is a beautiful aquarium with an excellent story telling about the ocean. We really enjoyed the jelly fishes , corals and the story telling. I don't fully agree with the sea lion attraction hype but they are nice. The best is the manta ray fish in the main pool which makes all the kid wonder with awe and equally so the adults. This place has a good restaurant as well and therefore don't worry about going out for food. This place takes 4.5 hrs of you would like to walk through everything.

Such a brilliant day out with the family. It is so much bigger than we were expecting. 3 different areas to look around, with so many tanks and other things to do. Lovely restaurant on site with lots of options. Would definitely recommend to anyone going to the area. 10/10. Definitely book in advance online, we were able to book the group tickets and saved a lot of money. It was very busy, with lots of school trips. We went on a Friday.

This place is truly one of the best! It offers so much more than a typical aquarium. the experience is absolutely surreal. Please note that outside food isn't allowed, but the on-site café serves both hot and cold meals. With multiple levels to explore, it's a good idea to fuel up beforehand. Be prepared for a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and come ready for an adventure!

Wonderful aquarium with huge tanks, so many different species of fish and some big Stingrays and sharks and a selection of well thought it and interesting exhibits. The cafe is good too and plenty to see and do for the day, even the kids are entertained.

It is such a beautiful church. The artworks are magnificent. I love how they have Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from Tuesday to Saturday; before the daily mass.

Huge cathedral, at least in my experience, as I am not really a cathedral expert.... One can choose which Saint to honour of to pray to or burn a candle for. Extremely detailed tableaux with more or less medieval daily life and church life images. The whole building is so full of symbols and sculptures that it is impossible to grasp. The large organ was under restoration, but also that is huge. Worth a visit, it is for free and nice cool inside on top of all those holiness.

I have a thing for Cathedrals, and this one was exceptional. Bigger than the one in Paris it’s filled with stunning details. Free light show on the facade every evening in the summer. We visited on a Friday afternoon and it was very quiet. We were driving past Amiens and I’m very glad we stopped!

I was stunned at first sight and drawn into the mysticism and ritual. Then suddenly the Sun came out and the nave was bathed in mystic light and I was stunned anew. It was a night-and -day experience and it was still only noon. The experiences you have here are of the things you hold dear for your life.

Built in the 1200s to impress and to house John the Baptist’s head, and it still does both. Bigger than Notre-Dame in Paris, sharper in detail, cleaner in structure. The façade is a textbook in Gothic sculpture, but not chaotic — it’s all deliberately ordered. Inside, it’s vast and surprisingly bare, which only makes the architecture stand out more. Worth a visit but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend going to Amiens specifically to see the cathedral.

Visiting Amiens Cathedral was like stepping into a living monument of medieval art, history, and faith. It’s a Gothic cathedral in the north of France. It’s huge, peaceful, and full of beautiful details from the 13th century. Also: It’s wheelchair accessible with ramps and smooth paths.

This church is the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe. I was skeptical about this having been to Notre Dame in Paris many times. I really wasn't prepared for how tall this building is, it was astonishing really. It's not as beautiful as the one in Paris especially since the renovation there, but very impressive nonetheless. Amiens is a lovely town to visit, don't miss taking a boat tour of the canal. It's beautiful and affordable.

A sombre place - 'a First World War memorial in Ypres, Belgium, dedicated to the missing British and Commonwealth soldiers who have no known grave in the Ypres Salient, with their names engraved on the walls of the memorial.' - I felt choked up approaching this place remembering my relatives that served here including my grandfather wounded at Passchendaele. We also saw groups of school kids, including some Indian students, and their teacher and a male and female student carried a wreath to lay remembering Indians who served as part of the British Empire.

I was here twice in one day, on a bus tour from brussels. Once around lunch, and then once at 7pm to stay for the 8pm last post ceremony. -Its a large "Gate" building, the functions as a road as well except at 8pm, when police close the road for the last post ceremony. The sidewalk is also roped off, you cannot cross this gate into or out of city between 7:50pm-8:20pm, by foot or car. -You can walk up the steps in the middle to the upper parts on either side, its more walls of names. -You can participate in the last post Ceremony if you have a poppy wreath similar to theirs. You can bring from home, or Buy a wreath at the "Info shop" across the road from the gate, inside the city. The man running the ceremony said they never turn away someone that wants to participate. -The last post ceremony gets busy, we arrived 1 hour before to be sure we got front row, and we did, but it does get busy. The ceremony itself is about 10min long, with a short trumpet call, then a short speech, then people walk up and put wreaths, and then trumpets again, and its over. The guide said sometimes there is more people putting wreaths, sometimes there is more speeches, sometimes more music performances, so it could take longer sometimes. Overall it was a nice memorial to the fallen soldiers

This is a must go to see, and listen to the sound of last post played by buglers of the fire service. A sombre moment, knowing that all the names carved out on the walls, were of men whose bodies were never found, and remain scattered under Flanders fields. Heartbreakingly sad to think of.

Have visited a few times before. Last time (2024) it was closed for restoration, all done now and looking great. There’s an office on site where they will help you locate the name of a lost family member. (Don’t try to read all the names or you’ll never find the one you want). If your schedule allows, stay for the Last Post ceremony, done every day. Right in the town centre of Ypres, a beautiful place to visit.

This is a must visit site in Ypres, especially at 8pm every day when the last post is played. It is remarkable that this service happens every day of the year more than 100 years after WW1, but then it remains as poignant and relevant today as ever (sadly). We attended on two consecutive nights, one night with the Honourable Artillery Company Regimental Band playing (incredible) the next with a female choral choir. Both were very moving. I estimated about 500 people attended both nights. The four or five horn players of the last post were clearly very experienced. The gate itself is a mini-museum, and it is very impactful to see the thousands of names of lost soldiers from so many countries. Really, everyone should visit this site.

The gate is a large memorial to the British Empire and Dominions troops that were killed in the Great War. It was built in the 1920s and has the names of 54,000 allied servicemen who lost their lives but have no known grave, inscribed on panels inside the building. It is sited on the road that the troops used to march along to reach the nearby Ypres salient, scene of fighting for pretty much the entire war. It is also where the famous Last Post ceremony takes place. We read the CWGC information boards and saw the information on the hill next to the gate and then we walked through the galleries with the names of the fallen before joining the crowds to listen to the ceremony. I was surprised at how busy it was and the ceremony itself lasted about 15 minutes but the colonnade was full 45 minutes before it started. It was a lovely ceremony with the Last Post and then two songs sung by St Anthony's Catholic Girl School from Market Weighton.

A must see experience. Lots of emotions. Make up your own mind as to a celebration of war or a monument against it! A waste of human life for a just cause or maybe a monument against war. A lesson from history about the waste of war and its leaders who send men to there death! Looking at the world at the moment, have we learned? But to those who lost their lives a very moving monument.

Wonderful experience climbing the belfort tower, the view from the top is magnificent. It is also nice to see all the bells, everything so well preserved. The hike to the top isn't that bad, there are opportunities to rest throughout. It is advisable to buy your tickets in advance as is a very popular tourist attraction. It's absolutely worth the climb. Highly recommended.

Climbing the Belfort Tower was one of the most memorable and fun experiences of our visit. This iconic bell tower, standing proudly in the heart of Bruges, dates all the way back to the 13th century! making it even older than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Knowing that we were walking inside a structure with such deep history made the climb even more special. The Belfort has 366 steps leading to the top, and while that might sound intimidating at first, the journey upward is absolutely worth it. When we first saw the sign warning that visitors should be in good health to climb, we felt a bit nervous. But once we began, we realized it was not too difficult at all! more like an adventure! The staircase is narrow and steep, so you occasionally have to pause to let people coming down pass by. These little breaks actually make the experience nicer, giving you a moment to catch your breath and take in the medieval atmosphere of the interior walls and beams. Halfway up, we reached the room housing the automatic bell system, which was fascinating to see up close. The giant drum mechanism that controls the bells is like something from another era , a perfect blend of art and engineering. When the bells start ringing, the sound is beautiful yet incredibly powerful, echoing through every stone of the tower. Finally reaching the top feels like a true reward. The panoramic view over Bruges is absolutely breathtaking, rows of red rooftops, winding canals, and the bustling market square below. Standing there, feeling the cool breeze and hearing the faint sound of bells, you truly understand why the Belfort Tower is such a beloved symbol of Bruges. It’s a climb one I’d recommend to anyone visiting this magical city.

It was a breathtaking view from the top. The climb was super easy and fun. You have to go all the way up 366 steps to see everything but it’s definitely worth it.

So so worth it. Great view and if you stay long enough you can hear the bells ringing. The walk up was not terrible, but it’s a lot of stairs. With mobility issues you’ll struggle. Gets tight near the top, but less scary than most of the towers we’ve climbed over the years in Europe. Read the info cards, they are super interesting. Has a lot of languages. Very cool story, and the views are killer. Make sure you get there an hour or so before you want to go up, tickets are sold in a small electronic kiosk inside the main door off the square on the left. Only so many tickets are sold per 40 minute chunk.

Amazing experience climbing to the top of the tower. Steep, narrow steps but worth it! Amazing view. The tower; from the ground, is amazing to admire, especially at night!

I recommend buying tickets online ahead of time or at the kiosk out front where you can select what time you want to visit. Otherwise you may have to wait a few hours. The climb to the top is quick, with several points of interest on the way. It’s unfortunate there is netting up to which obstructs your view and photos on the city. Also the cost at €15 is a bit extreme. €5-8 would be more reasonable

Absolutely stunning experience! Climbing the tower was one of the highlights of my trip. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking — you get the perfect perspective of the city’s historic skyline. The exhibits inside are also really well done and give a fascinating glimpse into the tower’s history and the role of the bells. Don’t miss it if you’re in Brugge

A great place to bring kids. It's about 13 euros (less if you're a resident or child) to enter, but it also includes an audio tour which was helpful and made the experience more enjoyable. Kids younger than 12 are free. The view of Ghent from the rooftop is lovely, and it is interesting to see the Mediaeval halls, torture chambers, toilets etc. the audio tour is 30-60 minutes depending on which version you choose (short vs long and comedic). A must-see if you visit Ghent!

A must-visit in Ghent - the castle not only looks amazing from the outside, but is really fascinating on the inside too. You don’t need to book beforehand if you have a free and easy day in Ghent - show up, get a ticket with a slot in an hour’s time or so, then come back for your slot (we even did the river boat tour while waiting). There is a free audio tour and I highly recommend the “humour” one - it’s really funny, entertaining, yet shared a lot of interesting history about the castle. Its an excellently designed audio tour (probably the best I’ve done), and the castle itself was fantastic too. The view from the too of the Castle overlooking Ghent is great, too!

Top tier castle. Even though it’s a remake it does a great job. The guided tours provide an easy learning opportunity throughout the castle in the place of signs. Wasn’t too busy but also not empty. Good photo opportunities over the city from the top as well.

Quite busy on the weekend but totally worth it. Your tickets are valid 10 min before the official admission time. Take an audio guide, there is a comedic version that was a nice touch, even if a bit on the nose at times. It's also great for kids, as long as you keep them off the ramparts where there's no railing.

Do yourself a favor and visit this magnificent castle of history. I have seen a lot of castles but this one triumphs all, especially due to the audio guide mixed with history and humor. A must see attraction if you are touring Belgium.

Really enjoyed our visit to the castle. It's fascinating to walk through and explore the different rooms and history. A big plus is that the audio guide is included in the ticket price. The views of Ghent from the top are absolutely beautiful. Highly recommend!

Well worth the visit. Audio tour is quite interesting, but there are two different ones - the longer one is probably better. You must pre-book, otherwise you will queue to buy tickets for a time slot several hours later and you'll have to come back for your slot. Good views over the city, some interesting historical items inside the castle to see. Gift shop is very expensive - avoid!

They’re currently renovating the one half of the outside of the building. But you can still see the other half and it is so impressive! Such beautiful architecture!

Hello everyone, I am very impressed with the city of Ghent. I would like to go back again if I have the chance and I would like all my friends to see this unique city. I can tell you that it is very beautiful.

The Ghent city hall is a massive complex, that was built over several centuries. The oldest parts date back to early 14th century while the most recent additions were made as late as in 1881. It is a mix of different architechtural styles: gothic, renaissance, baroque. A landmark of Ghent.

Wonderful location and surroundings at night. Feels like time travel into the past, with historic buildings in the area, no cars due to the pedestrian zone, and only a few tourists around. I couldn’t imagine Gent being so beautiful, but the City Hall is definitely one of the landmarks.

Ghent City beautiful place in Belgium... With stunning architecture.. It's a great a stop off if your travelling from the UK to other parts of Europe... The people are lovey and friendly with lots to do.

Everyone talks about Brugge but let me tell you Ghent we fell in love with. Same feel and look but less popular and I found to be more beautiful. Definitely stop here it is so so beautiful and romantic and a place where they captured a time way before we were here. Castles and waffles heaven. You won't be disappointed.

Ghent is located 30 minutes from Brussel. Small city but with beautiful architecture. We visited City Hall, Several Churches and the Graffiti street.

Visited Mauritshuis, a very well-known museum located in The Hague, near the Binnenhof. The first interesting thing I learned is that Mauritshuis actually means “Maurits’ house”, which is quite fascinating! However, behind the beauty of the building, the story of how its fortune was built is not entirely pleasant. However I won’t spoil it, because you should visit and find out yourself! This museum is also home to the iconic “Girl with a Pearl Earring” by Johannes Vermeer. Fun fact: we might not even be sure it’s an earring, as it doesn’t appear to be hooked! Another remarkable painting is “View of Delft”, also by Vermeer, which holds a special place in my heart since we live nearby and it carries meaningful memories. We even bought a puzzle of that painting, surprisingly affordable for something sold in such a prestigious museum! During our visit, there was also a live Q&A about painting restoration, where they were working on “The Bull” by Paulus Potter. It was fascinating to see how restoration combines art, material and chemical engineering, ethics, and history. For instance, The Bull was taken during the French occupation of the Netherlands, and at some point, a nail scratch was added to the painting. The big question is: do you fix it, restore it, or keep it as part of history? You decide! You can also download the Mauritshuis app and enjoy a free audio guide directly from your phone. I recommend bringing your own headset for the best experience. Overall, a truly great and thought-provoking experience, so I highly recommended!

A small but nice museum with a collection of beautiful paintings. I went there to see the Girl with the Pearl Earring. It was interesting to watch experts clean up one of the paintings. Staff are friendly & helpful, the museum & facilities are clean and the shop has nice souvenirs. You can buy your tickets at the reception as well as leave your coat and bags.

On a per square foot basis, this relatively small museum in the Hague might be the very best art museum in the world. The number of amazing masterpieces from the Dutch is nothing short of stunning. The ability to get close to them is even more wonderful, although people have to abuse this privilege by trying to vandalize the paintings with desserts and other terrible things. From start to finish, we were absolutely stunned by the quality and intimacy of this place. That someone who doesn’t even love art all that much, I fell in love with it.

We were iffy about going here but saw it listed as maybe the top attraction in den Haag we ponied up and I enjoyed the very impressive detail of so many paintings from around 1600s then seeing Rubens and Rembrandt I was able to see what made them different and special - luminescence and stuff so that was interesting. To save walking up the steps there is a lift but the trick is the button is on top of the post outside not on the wall so if you’re looking on the wall you’ll never find the button for the lift.

The Mauritshuis is a beautifully curated museum with an exceptional collection, including several world-famous paintings like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp. The galleries are intimate and thoughtfully arranged, which makes it easy to appreciate each masterpiece up close. However, the museum is quite small, and the ticket price feels a bit high for the amount of time you can comfortably spend inside. Even so, the quality of the artwork and the elegance of the building make it a memorable and worthwhile visit.

We spent a Saturday evening here, 2hours before closing! It was the perfect amount of time we needed for our weekend in The Hague! What a showstopper museum!! Gorgeous building, and the art is just marvellous 🤩 The girl with the pearl earring was just the icing on the cake! The display of the restoration of one of the pieces was very enjoyable! Thank you 🙏🏾 Highly recommended!

Loved this gallery in elegant former residential home. Came to The Hague to see The Goldfinch, he didn't disappoint! Also The Girl With The Pearl Earring, she was very beautiful. View of Delft was breathtaking. Obviously my phone photos do not do them justice.

Pairi Daiza is, without a doubt, my absolute favourite animal park. I visit several times a year, and every visit is pure joy. This park is truly exceptional and never stops improving and expanding. The settings and landscapes are simply breathtaking, making it a real pleasure to spend an entire day here. The park evolves with the seasons and transforms beautifully for special events such as Easter, Christmas, Carnival, Halloween, and during summer weekends, when unique evening openings until 11 PM create a magical atmosphere. Pairi Daiza is the perfect place for a family day out or a relaxing walk surrounded by nature and incredible animals. I highly recommend visiting, you won’t regret it. Moreover, the work carried out by the Pairi Daiza Foundation is meaningful and impactful, contributing greatly to animal welfare and conservation worldwide. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to support their efforts. Pairi Daiza truly deserves its title as the most beautiful park in Europe. It is always a pleasure to spend time there, no matter the season or occasion.

The best, most beautiful and well organised zoo (despite the thousends of visitors and parking cars) I have ever visited in Europe (and I say that after Vienna, Zürich, Paris). It is not just a zoo, it is also a garden heaven, with many tematics and attractions, shows (especially at Halloween, they are open until 10 p.m.). It is very enjoyable for adults and of course for children, as well. If you have a lot of money you can also sleep here in different kinds of apartments, they are all awesome, too. The app is very helpful, you can use it like a GPS, you can also see which restaurants, kiosks are open or closed. It would be more useful, if you can see where were you already, not to skip a place. Every toilets and restaurants are also a great and different experience. I would like to come back at winter, Christmas time, as well. All the view and photos you see on the website is in real life exactly the same. Just perfect. Thank you, Piari Daiza. ❤️

Amazing wildlife parc with huge setups. Many big zones that are divided in different continents. You can cover this in a full day. We arrived at 11 am and left 7 pm. But you take your time you need more than a day to fully enjoy. Fantastic day and can’t wait to visit again

A nice, big zoo that gives off a bit of a Tomorrowland and fairytale vibe. My recommendation: come earlier, because it’s super big! Try to visit in summer, spring, or early autumn. We didn’t even see half of the animals because many were hiding or sleeping due to the weather. But overall, it’s a really good place — definitely recommend!

We really enjoyed it here. The park was huge and we didn't get time to see everything in one day; but we picked the animals we wanted to see the most. My kids loved the Monkey Bridge (5 & 8).

Absolutely magical – more than just a zoo! Pairi Daiza is hands down one of the most beautiful and unique places I’ve ever visited. It’s not just a zoo — it’s a journey around the world. Every part of the park is beautifully themed and designed, from the Asian temples to the African plains and the peaceful gardens. You feel like you're travelling the world in one day. The animals are clearly well cared for, and their enclosures are spacious and thoughtfully made to resemble their natural habitats. Seeing the pandas, elephants, tigers, and so many other species up close was just incredible. The attention to detail in every corner is impressive — you can tell the people who built this place truly love what they do. The park is very clean, well-maintained, and easy to walk through, with plenty of spots to rest, take pictures, and grab something to eat. It’s perfect for families, couples, or even a solo trip. I left Pairi Daiza with a full heart and a phone full of amazing memories. Truly one of Belgium’s hidden gems — I’ll definitely be coming back! ❤️🐼✨

An absolute must-visit! A beautiful zoo with genuine care for animal welfare. I honestly cannot think of a single negative thing to say about this park. The animals live in beautiful, spacious, and well maintained enclosures and all look healthy and well cared for. What really stood out to me is the transparency and the attention to detail. Whenever an animal has a minor issue or a visible condition, there are clear signs explaining the reason. For example, one animal was limping slightly, and the sign explained that this was due to arthritis as the animal had reached an advanced age. This is such a thoughtful initiative and shows that the animals are truly cared for. I know that some people are against zoos, but without places like Pairi Daiza, which work incredibly hard with breeding programs, care, donations, and conservation efforts. The situation for many endangered species would be far worse. This zoo makes a valuable contribution to the protection and preservation of animals, and that deserves recognition. I truly enjoyed this visit, both because of the animals and the way everything is organized. Without a doubt, this is a place I will happily return to. Highly recommended!

Here is absolutely stunning fields of colorful flowers, especially tulips, everywhere you look. It was quite crowded with tourists, but the atmosphere was still enjoyable. Outside the park, we rented bikes and explored the endless beautiful flower fields around Lisse a fantastic experience! Despite the crowds, I’d definitely love to come back.

Large and beautiful gardens with a multitude of tulip displays. It was lovely to walk around and see all the beds that are supported by local farmers. The indoor displays were great for a bit of variety. Spent about 3 hours total including a rest for lunch. Visited at the start of April, so before the peak season, but still quite tiring with the huge number of people. The bus and entry ticket was very convenient.

Its a spectacular garden with every colour of tulips and roses that you could imagine. Simply beautiful! There is also a section inside where they have arranged flowers and stuff, that too is worth seeing. Absolutely worth the money!!! Not-to-be-missed!

Visited Keukenhof in late March and had a lovely experience overall. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and getting there by bus was simple thanks to very clear signage and instructions throughout. While the outdoor tulips hadn’t bloomed yet (which is to be expected that early in the season), the indoor displays more than made up for it — vibrant, beautifully curated, and full of colour. The whole park is set in a stunning landscape, and even without the full bloom, it’s a peaceful and enjoyable place to walk around. I’ll definitely return again — but next time, a little later in the season to catch the gardens in full bloom.

One of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Highly recommended for people who love nature, flowers and looking for a day out to spend time close to nature. Amazing views and wide variety of Tulips. I have taken day trip from Amsterdam and it was well worth it.

VERY PRETTYY! visited it on march or april and it almost near the end of the season so some flowers are already got cut off, but still the collection is so pretty and it's less crowded! you should also buy and eat the strawberry covered chocolate and some snacks there! i also bought a bus ride from amsterdam from Klook!

My goodness, there is no other garden like this one. The place is huge and spectacular. There are flowers in every colour including black. Flowers are everywhere, left, right, behind and infront of you. The garden is located outside of Amsterdam and reachable by car or the Keukenhof bus which was very efficient. There are many people that visit this garden but you can still navigate easily if you come the earliest possible when the garden open. There are places on site to buy lunch and/or snacks. It is a bit pricey but the quality was really good so that worked out well. An amazing experience, I spent over 4 hrs at the garden, and took hundreds of photos. It is a must visit on anyone's list that loves tulips. It is a must to see the creativity in gardening, how much planning went into that, how much work was done, incredible experience for me.

Absolutely the best. I got such a nice room with a great view to the station. Spacious and superclean room. Friendly and very helpful front desk staff. Excellent breakfast. Only complain I might have would be the smokers on the front entrance due to close proximity of the bus stop.

Very good hotel right opposite the Antwerp train station. I’ve given it 5* for location as I wanted to be close to the station. It is about a 15 minute walking into the ‘old town’ Rooms very comfortable and modern. Staff were incredibly helpful and kind Decent included breakfast.

Hampton by Hilton Antwerp is in a very convenient location—just steps away from Central Station. The hotel is quite good and up to standard. The in-room amenities are complete, the place is clean, and the service is great. Jesse, the front desk staff we met on the first day, was cheerful and provided us with a lot of helpful information. Breakfast was decent.

We had a fabulous stay at the Hampton Hotel Antwerp. The location is right across ghe road from the train station which makes exploration of Belgium so convenient. The staff was super friendly and attentive to all our needs. Sorry that I do not know all their names but Lesley stands out as a great example of great service and for caring about his guests. Highly recommended

Great Diamond member recognition. Nice staff, specious room and happy atmosphere. The best part of the hotel is the unbeatable location. Near to the central station, restaurants, supermarkets and zoo. Perfect for family with kids.

Not a great hotel for families. Rooms very dated. Carpets in the rooms and nasty stains all over them, feels very dirty. Bed like a block of wood and pillows with filling all knotted and bunched in places. No sound proofing at all so can hear people in the hallways, and very busy train station right outside so very loud. Parking very far, so if coming with a car avoid this hotel at all costs, if not for the reasons above anyway. Arrived at 11pm with 2 very tired children, 2 and 4 years old. No parking at all outside, risked parking in the road for a few minutes while unloading the bags. Asked wife to go and check in so I could park the car. Parking is 15/20 minutes away including walk back to hotel. Asked my wife to check in and go to the room. Her purse and phone was in the car in the hurry. When I got to the hotel they were still at reception and was told receptionist wouldn’t give the key because the tourist tax had to be paid. I asked the receptionist why couldn’t you give my wife and kids the room key as I was coming back and it’s 11pm for a 2 and 4 year old who were very restless and making it difficult for wife to look after. Fee was only €5 and all she said is I can’t give it, there’s cameras all over watching me. It’s such a stupid excuse, and doesn’t care about customers at all and their struggles. Wife was struggling for 20 minutes with 2 children who were rolling around the floor while she just watched on. They could have been in bed, and all for €5 which we were obviously going to pay anyway, along with the parking costs at the reception. Had to come back to pay that after anyway for a parking garage which was a while away. I then asked if the request we made for a cot in the room was seen and if there was a cot. She said I can see your request so there will be a cot in the room, and if there isn’t just let us know. She didn’t care at all. Surprise surprise no cot in the room, so waited another 20 minutes with the kids for the cot to be bought up. Wished we never booked this hotel, staff with no empathy or care for customers. Avoid at all costs.

I stayed at the Hampton by Hilton Antwerp Central Station for six nights to participate in a technical meeting that was held nearby at A Room with a ZOO. The hotel was an excellent value, well-located, and offered traveler-friendly services. Breakfast in the morning and the house bar at night were highlights.

Great unique experience. They give you individual audio pods which hosts several languages. This gallery is the home that Anne Frank found refuge with her family before they were found. As you enter each room, you scan the room# as it narrates events in her life. There is a bookstore and café shop located at the end of the tour. Rsvp online purchase as it is busy, but not really a long wait when it get there. Goes fast and the tour is about an hour long.

Impressive, very well conserved. Autoguided visit. No photos allowed in the hidden house, only in the visitors centre for the ones who buy the ticket+introdutory lesson (30 minutes for an overview of the history, I fully recommend). It can be a little sufocating not only because of the place but also about the history that happened inside. It is impossible going there and not feel bad about what these walls have listened and witnessed. It is a painful but necessary visit.

Really would recommend. The audio tour helps paint a picture of what it was like back then. Imagining having to be quiet so you weren't heard. Seeing the original features really brings it to life.

A solemn and moving museum to remind humanity not to repeat such horrific events. The courage of not only the Frank family but also the saints who helped this family was displayed. It filled my heart to see that the dreams of a young girl was fulfilled although she was denied to live her life.

Amazing! You cannot take photos inside, they have coat check so you can bring your bag to leave there. They also provide speaker phone type of device in many different languages. I have a spinal condition and was able to make all of the stairs! I highly recommend.

Awesome experience. A must for those in Amsterdam. History truly comes to life right in front of you. No photos allowed in the house itself.

A great display. To see the conditions & how the family lived hiding all those years was amazing. You certainly have to book 6 weeks in advance in summer/peak season. Unfortunately no photos allowed to be taken inside the complex.

We try to visit an art museum in every city we visit and this was a great one! Very organized timed entry and exit. The audio tour was great and the art was obviously amazing. It was also a good size, but not so big your feet hurt by the end. :) Definitely a must see if you visit Amsterdam but buy your tickets well in advance!

Must visit if you like art even one tiny bit. I'm not an art aficionado myself but I can't not be amazed by Van Gogh's Paintings. You cannot buy tickets at the gate. It must be pre purchased online beforehand. Please note the starry night (Van Gogh's most famous painting) is not here. But they have other amazing paintings including another masterpiece - The potato eaters. The lighting is not nice. It's dull yellow and doesn't do justice to the colours. It should be much brighter. One thing which was not nice was the locker system to keep your backpack which is not allowed inside. It's free but had no instructions. You first need to go to the panel and enter a code and it will assign a locker. The shop is also nice, they have some really good items for sale. Overall worth every penny !

An absolutely incredible experience! Visiting the Van Gogh Museum was a highlight of my trip to Amsterdam. The collection is extraordinary, featuring the world’s largest selection of Van Gogh’s masterpieces. Each room takes you deeper into his life, his emotions, and the evolution of his unique artistic style. From the iconic Sunflowers to The Bedroom and many of his lesser-known works, every painting tells a story and invites you to linger, reflect, and truly appreciate the genius behind them. A tip for anyone planning to visit: go early! The museum can get crowded, and you’ll want plenty of quiet time to soak in the details of each painting. I found myself captivated for hours, moving slowly from one room to the next, completely immersed in the colors, textures, and emotions Van Gogh captured on canvas. The museum is beautifully organized, and the exhibits provide excellent context about his life, influences, and struggles. The combination of his art and the informative displays makes this not just a visit, but an emotional journey through one of the most brilliant artistic minds in history. If you love art, history, or simply want to experience something that stays with you long after leaving, this museum is a must-visit. I left feeling inspired, awed, and grateful for the opportunity to witness these masterpieces up close. Truly unforgettable! 🎨

I truly enjoyed the experience! Though the museum doesn’t have some works like the starry night, it explores the path of Vincent through the time. What I liked is examples of the work that inspired Van Gogh, the paintings of his friends that he exchanged for his paintings and the paintings that got inspiration from Van Gogh. An extended audio guide was easy to follow and it felt pretty short.

Let’s be honest this is one of those things that everyone tells you have to see. If you’re visiting Amsterdam, you’re probably going whether you want to or not. Take the back staircase that gives you a great view of the area below. I actually recommend going all the way to the top first and then working your way down. Don’t worry about going to the first gift shop you see there’s multiple gift shops there. They’re also is a few really great views to be had depending on where you stop for a coffee. The architecture of the building itself is actually really enjoyable. There’s a lot of art to be seen so if you walk into one room and it’s crowded just circle back to it later. Budget a few hours, but don’t spend the whole day because there’s a ton to do in the surrounding area.

The Van Gogh Museum is absolutely stunning, not just the building itself, which is beautiful, but the entire atmosphere. The exhibits are incredible, of course, but what truly stood out to me was the storytelling. As we walked through the museum, we felt like we were being guided through Vincent’s life, seeing the world through his eyes, and understanding his struggles, passion, and vision on a much deeper level. By the time we left, we had a completely new appreciation of who Vincent Van Gogh was, both as an artist and as a person. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve walked out the door.

I had a great experience. I would say it would take 1.5-2 hours to get through the museum. There is a lot of people (of course) which does make it harder to enjoy but what can you do. There is a lot to learn about his life. There are some other artists who were his friend or inspiration etc. The gift shops/ cafe are about the size of the museum itself but it has a huge selection too and reasonably priced. There are also lockers to store your bags/ coat hangers so you don’t have to carry around so much and can enjoy the works of art.

Great museum. Hadn’t been for a few years, better than I remembered. Amazing art spread over four floors in the heart of the museum area. Saw huge works of art, great sculpture too and even an aircraft up on floor 3. And a condom that dates back to 1830 🙄 A must see. Only takes a couple of hours to get a good feel. You can then return to explore more.

Stunning setting on par with the Louvre; goldmine of Dutch Masters but also extensive collections of porcelain, china, silverware, jewelry, firearms, nautical models and other items. Large, open atrium and other common areas with ample access to washrooms, lifts and stairwells. App (IOS and Android) loads easily and allows access to thematic and custom tours. BRING ear buds, although you can listen via your phone’s speaker. Audio device is only €6.50 each. Cafeteria fills by mid-day with lineup; we grabbed coffee / tea and a brownie for two at the smaller cafe. Cons: App and general signage could be better at orienting visitors: it took a while to find the Great Hall. Many exhibits are dimly lit; I know this protects paintings/fabric/etc, but many other international museums have more ample lighting. Maybe illuminate the text descriptions separately? Given that explanatory panels are often mounted within 50cm of the floor, deciphering them can pose a challenge. Even saw quite young folks having to squint. Strongly advise staff to engage an Optometrist to assist in this. Sum: certainly a “must see”, with a complete visit likely requiring 3+ hrs. Staff very helpful, and roving throughout the museum. Buy tickets from the official site beforehand (or via QR on site), and avail yourself of the (included) coat-check.

The Rijksmuseum is an incredible place to explore Dutch art and history. The collection is world-class from Rembrandt’s The Night Watch to Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, every gallery feels like a walk through time. The building itself is stunning, and the layout makes it easy to wander and discover something new at every turn. That said, it can get very crowded, especially on weekends. I definitely recommend buying your tickets in advance to skip the long lines and secure your preferred time slot. Once inside, take your time there’s so much to see that it’s worth spending a few hours here. Overall, a fantastic cultural experience and a must-visit in Amsterdam, just make sure to plan ahead!

Buy tickets outside at a little portable booth in front of the overpass. Watch out for FAST💨 BIKES!!! The famous Night Watchman by Rembrandt is under serious restoration and is partially blocked due to scaffolding. This painting is on the second floor, the 1700s. Later work by Van Gogh is on the 1st floor exhibited. We also ate lunch in the museum cafeteria and the food was super fast and fresh! The chicken salad and the buffalo mozzarella salad were excellent!!

Classic, iconic, and indispensable art museum. While it is best known for its classic collection and Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, it also hosts an extensive selection of works from other periods, including contemporary critical exhibits. Carefully curated, the visit can be extensive if one wishes to cover all it has to offer. But it makes for a memorable experience both for those with a dedication to art and culture, and the casual visitor. It is useful to book tickets in advance. While the crowds are managed reasonably, it can get busy, in particular in the most popular galleries. An early arrival is useful to enjoy those works in a more relaxed way. The museum has quality services for information, accessibility, shop, restaurant and coffee bar. Staff is professional, congenial, and knowledgeable across all roles. The 2013 refurbishment of the historic Pierre Cuypers building by Cruz y Ortiz Arquitectos still feels fresh, cogent, and successful in upgrading the entrances, patios, service areas, and selected exhibition spaces. If anything it would have been nice to have a more direct opportunity to understand the evolution of the building, its spaces, collection history, and new curatorial practices. Although much of that emerges through the visiting experience, and carefully prepared exhibits.

This museum was huge! Beautiful to look and on both the inside and the outside. Beautiful gardens and greenery and the building was an architectural masterpiece. Our story is a little funny because even tho we paid to enter, we were so tired from the day already that we only entered for a mere 3 minutes and then stepped out to go look for Stroopwaffles. We barely saw anything here, but hey everyone says it's a must-see when you're visiting Amsterdam.

The Rijksmuseum is spacious and full of variety—you can easily spend two hours or more exploring. Of course, the famous paintings, especially those by Rembrandt, are breathtaking. But beyond that, we enjoyed discovering other exhibits too: delicate porcelain, shipbuilding models, and historical artifacts that tell stories beyond the canvas. We arrived early, which helped—it was fairly quiet at first. But the museum filled up quickly and became quite crowded in some areas. The café is lovely and offers a peaceful break. Unfortunately, The Night Watch is currently under restoration, but even so, it remains a powerful and moving centerpiece. Visiting the Rijksmuseum is a beautiful experience—perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking cultural depth and inspiration.

It's a sculptural genius, we had been there just to view it in the evening and walked around in the park nearby. The ambiance is calm and cosy, definitely recommended to visit with friends and family.

If you’ve never been to the Atomium, it’s absolutely worth a visit—especially if you enjoy unique architecture and panoramic city views. As one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks, the Atomium blends retro-futuristic design with a sense of playful wonder, making it stand out from more traditional European attractions. Even just approaching the structure is impressive: the massive, reflective spheres rising above the surrounding park have a surreal, almost sci-fi presence that immediately captures your attention. The real highlight, though, is the view from the top sphere. On a clear, sunny day, the outlook over Brussels is genuinely stunning. The city stretches out in every direction, and the sunlight reflecting off the metal surfaces adds a bright, almost cheerful atmosphere to the entire experience. It’s definitely the kind of place where the weather can make a big difference, so visiting on a day with good visibility is ideal. That said, the Atomium becomes truly magical at sunset. As the sky shifts from gold to deep blue, the structure’s lights begin to glow, giving the entire monument a soft, dreamlike quality. Watching the city transition into evening from up high is a moment that feels both peaceful and memorable. Whether you're a photographer, a casual tourist, or someone who simply enjoys a beautiful view, sunset at the Atomium is something special. Overall, the Atomium is a unique blend of history, design, and atmosphere—well worth the trip if you haven’t been before.

Spectacular structure. They take you to the top level by elevator where you have a panoramic view of the city. Then you work your way down each atom. In one of the atom, they have light and sound show which is very cool. Finally you come back to the lobby level and gift shop. Overall it was a great experience and highly recommend it when in Brussels. It’s conveniently located close to a train station so you can reach it from any location in the city.

Visiting the Atomium in Brussels was one of those iconic “we have to do it” moments and I’m glad we did! We went on a Sunday without pre-booked tickets, and thankfully it wasn’t an issue. We waited about 15 minutes to purchase tickets and begin the experience. Just a heads-up: the visit is split into two parts, and you’ll receive two separate tickets per person. The first part of the tour takes you up a series of escalators and stairs through the spheres, where you can learn about the history and construction of the Atomium. Most of the informational signs were in French, so we moved through this part fairly quickly, admiring the architecture more than the displays. At the end, you’re guided through the gift shop and outside — which felt a bit confusing, because you then need to rejoin the crowds to continue on to Part 2. The second part involves queuing again inside the building — about 20 minutes for us — before taking the futuristic elevator to the top sphere. The view from above is definitely the highlight, especially if you love snapping photos and videos. There’s also a restaurant at the top, and free restrooms (a lifesaver after all that waiting and cold weather!), but we didn’t have the chance to dine there since we were catching a flight later that day. Once you’re done enjoying the panorama, there’s one more line for the elevator back down — so yes, a bit of a queue-athon overall. 😅 In the end, it was a good experience and I’m happy we visited — the Atomium is unique, quirky, and a standout piece of Brussels history. That said, the flow of the tours could definitely be improved to reduce all the waiting. If you’re planning to visit, be prepared for lines and maybe book ahead if you can, but the views certainly make the effort worthwhile!

This is a very fun and interactive activity for travelers of all ages. There are concurrent and subsequent additional places like other museums that you can attend while here to include “LITTLE EUROPE AS PICTURED”. This place is perfect for gathering souvenirs as well as picture taking which is professionally available and opted to you at the ending of the activity. We did not get to frequent the restaurant at the top due to them only having one section of the restaurant open at the time; however, other reviewers have stated the food is not good.

Getting a ticket online is recommended, as the venue can get quite busy. The presentation collection is impressive, but the view is hidden by coloured glass. However, the breathtaking and impressive stairs with the light show are worth the wait.

Beautiful tourist destination is Brussels, Belgium. There was a steady line of tourists enjoying the beauty of this modernist building. It is an important landmark in Brussels. It was originally constructed as the center piece of the 1958 Brussels Expo. Now it is a museum and an art center. When one stands under it one is likely to marvel at the huge symmetrical structure. The huge globes are interconnected symmetrically giving the building the shape of an atomic structure. Atomium is built in a very beautiful location, surrounded by fine gardens and a nice row of trees.

I would’ve loved to know a little more about the history of this boy! But unfortunately not much is known, even the theories are a far few… nevertheless a spot for every tourist visiting for pictures. I do see a lot of guides explaining about the statue and was curious to find out more… it’s close to the grand place and can definitely be included in the city walk.

It is undoubtebly a statue that you want to see when in Brussels because it's gotten so popular for some reason. I really like the idea of this little boy being a national symbol and getting dressed up in different outfits depending on current events. It somehow manages to be both impressive and underwhelming at the same time.

Manneken Pis is the famous statue in Brussels, depicting a young boy urinating. The statue in place right now was put there in 1965 and is surrounded by cameras and fencing due to previous theft and vandalism. I was surprised by the size of the statue when actually seeing it in person — it was tiny and a little underwhelming, and it would be so easy to just walk past it if it wasn’t for the crowds of people standing around. The statue is pretty humorous though, and is only a short walk away from Grand Place, so it’s worth checking out while in Brussels for sure, especially if you can catch it in one of the fun costumes. Unfortunately, during my trip, it was without this.

The statue itself is quite small and, apart from its fame, may not be particularly captivating. However, the surrounding streets and area are delightful, featuring charming sweet and waffle shops. If you happen to visit at the right moment, you might even observe a local group dressing the statue.

Manneken Pis represents the Brussels spirit: humor, irreverence, independence, and not taking life too seriously. Locals see it as a quirky emblem of their city. There are many legends—one says the boy extinguished a burning fuse with his urine and saved the city. These stories make it a key part of local folklore. Along with Grand Place, it’s one of the most visited attractions in Brussels. It represents Belgian comic-style humor and is featured in souvenirs, festivals, and cultural events.

A must when near Grand Place. It's easy to miss and it's not that big. Walked by earlier in the day and completely missed it. These pics are at dusk/night so accessible outside of the crowds.

For a tiny little guy, it was fun to see. My grandson and I enjoyed the walk and hunt to find him. So many people from different parts of the world were together and enjoying the experience.

The Grand Place in Brussels is absolutely stunning! It’s vibrant during the day, but at night it transforms into something completely different and magical with the lights. I’d recommend visiting twice—once in the morning and once at night—to really enjoy both views. The whole square is so picturesque and a perfect spot to stroll around and take photos. Truly a must-visit in Brussels!

Beautiful central plaza! Lots of ornate buildings with intricate statues and gold accents. Grand Place in Brussels is absolutely stunning! It’s vibrant during the day, but at night it transforms into something completely different and magical with the lights. I’d recommend visiting twice—once in the morning and once at night—to really enjoy both views. The whole square is so picturesque and a perfect spot to stroll around and take photos. Truly a must-visit in Brussels!

One of the best squares I visited in europe. Smells like incredible food, architecture is stunning and it’s centrally located with so many food options around the square and nearby streets. A must see when visiting Brussels

Sooo Beautiful... that words cant express! Visited on Saturday and night time with lights on was a magical experience. All shops and restaurants were open and there was music playing. Such a lively place that was. In the morning you can see the details of building and it had its own beauty. I would recommend visiting the place both in daytime and night time.

Beautiful central plaza! Lots of ornate buildings with intricate statues and gold accents. During August when we visited there was a lot of tourists and it had a lively atmosphere. There are a couple good food options as well in the Grand Place, and all the streets branching off from it have more food options, chocolate shops, souvenirs, etc. When we went one evening the lights were flickering which was kind of fun to watch. Sometimes in the Place you’ll find some street performers and other excitement going on. It is a good central spot to orient yourself when exploring the city.

The first word that comes immediately to mind this wow! We are fortunate to stage of steps from this site. You stand in the middle and are just in awe by the beautiful architecture and the gilding of the guild buildings. It’s the center of town for a reason. Yes, it’s the seat of government, but it’s also one of the most picturesque city centers imaginable.

WOW! The Grand Place is exactly as it's name sake. And so opulent with gold ✨️ embellishments on the buildings. The perfect gathering place for food & entertainment. I just love 💛 the architecture and the stature of these buildings.... and so will you. Plenty of places to eat, drink and meet people. This is what The Grand Place is all about. We especially loved the BEST Waffles at Waffelin! SOOO delicious 😋

Very nice service from the people working at the little office today (19 July). We had some discount cards from vrindenloterij and the guy was so nice to check if they work with them ( they didn’t) but still he made an extra effort to check that for us, we made a reservation for a later moment and when we came back there was a lady who explained everything nice and she was really friendly ☺️ thank you

This pedal boat experience was a mistake for us. There was nothing enjoyable, easy or entertaining about it. My 10-year old child and I rented a Stromma Utrecht paddle boat today and regretted it immediately. Why? It was just way too much work for two people on vacation. We had not been prepared for the *huge amount of physical exertion* required to move and steer these boats. We made it through 1/3 of the route, and then decided to turn back, as we were already sweaty, stressed and physically wasted from pedaling and steering of the boat. It was a very hot day. I do not recommend this experience to anyone, really, but if you must give it a try, you should consider yourself Strong, Energized, and on the Tall side. This is necessary because the seats on the boats do not adjust, and short-legged people will be challenged to reach the pedals and get traction. Steering the boats is also arduous and requires arm strength. Combined with the hard pedaling, it made for an unpleasant experience in a beautiful place. And lastly, the route map that is on the boat was unhelpful, as it was faded and impossible to read. It would be wonderful if the company revised and replaced them. The employee who helped us today was both nice and professional, and did her best to provide service. Still, she cannot control the quality of the boats or of the experience you will have, once you are out on your own. In summary, I discourage you from spending money on this pedal boat tour. The rental kayaks we saw (different company) looked like a much better time.

pleasant experience. Gentle and kind people that explain you all the directions you can take

Arrived at 10:20am for our 10:30 reservation… still here at 11am and no one has turned up to open up. Phone number isn’t being answered. Lots of other people here waiting for their booking too. Don’t bother.

Probably the most beautiful activity you can do when visiting Utrecht. Check their opening hours before you go. They are open April, May, June, September and October from Wednesday until Sunday 10h00-18h00. Daily in July and August. Closed November, December, January and February. This way you are never disappointed...

Went to Utrecht for a day out of Amsterdam. As a group of four we almost skipped this canal tour booth until one of us pointed it out. We each had to then pay an admission fee, but once that was done we were to hop onto a four man pedal boat and explore the canals of this Dutch city. We were completely blown away with the views and overall friendly atmosphere of the city. The ride takes about 90 minutes but you get to see so much at your own pace and have a fun time doing it.

Sadly we can't have a pedalo since we are 2 adults and three kids, despite the fact that our small one would have had more than enough space to sit in the middle....

I remember this being one of the happiest day of my life so far. Where my inner child was allowed to experience joy and excitement with no limitations. There are various different rides ranging from easy-going to adventure seeking, so different strokes for different folks. It's very family friendly and easily accessible to all. On the day we went, there were a lot of kids, babies, toddlers and disabled persons. It accommodates all family sizes. I went with my partner and we noticed that there were some rides that were only for single riders, so you can definitely experience this solo. In addition to the rides, it's magical to walk around and take in the atmosphere and Fairytale details of the park. I really appreciated the fact we didn't stand too long in the lines for food and the rides. Also a big shout out to the staff who are simply the best (to quote Tina Turner). Thank you Efteling!

It is ok for families with kids between 5 and 10. Probably also for people between 20 and 25 who are seeking gor a bit of adrenaline. Food prices are ok All in all, if you live at maximum 250 km is a good place to spend a nice day.

Probably the best theme park i've ever been to. The attractions are really immersive and they have something for all ages. They also have some really fun shows happening all over the park. On top of that, i thought all the food we had was very tasty and reasonably priced. Since we went on a weekday at the end of September, the wait times were never more than 10 minutes. I would definitely recommend using their app which has an interactive map of the park where you can view the live waiting indicators and show times.

Even on a Wednesday, there were still lots of people! The popular rides had a 20–30 minute wait. Some of the facilities looked a bit old and even a little creepy, but the merry-go-round was very special and really cool.

Efteling is a stunning themepark full of magic and spectacle! It’s perfect for bringing children or honestly any family member- I’m not joking your grandma would love this! Every attraction is themed, detailed and a cared for. Nothing is without consideration, the green spaces, the story telling - even the bins are a delight (iykyk). Every staff member you encounter will be lovely- every ride operation will be fast but efficient. One day is simply not enough to see and experience everything as there is so much to do but one day at Efteling will fill your heart for a year if you have to travel as far as I did for the experience!

A bit crowded and long queues compared to other parks, but it is worth it. Many people prefer new rollercoasters, which are nice of course, but in my opinion joris and the draak is still one of the best: longer ride and many turns, plus the waiting line moves faster.

An incredible day out. Beautifully designed and perfect for kids We spent a full day at Efteling (10am–7:30pm) with our two young children and honestly, it was amazing. The park is huge and much bigger than Disney in terms of space, but it never felt overwhelming. There are so many rides, attractions, and beautifully landscaped areas to explore. Despite it being August and around 25°C, we barely queued the longest we waited was 30 minutes for the train (we'd just missed it), but everything else was under 10 minutes, including the pedal trains, a few dark rides, and Carnaval Festival. What really sets Efteling apart is the atmosphere: peaceful, whimsical, and full of little pockets where you can sit, eat, or just wander in the shade. It felt like a fairytale world that hadn’t been turned into a shopping centre. One big downside though – no water fountains anywhere. Coming from the UK where free tap water is a given, this was a bit of a shock. The day before in Belgium we were told off for asking to fill our bottles at a soft play, so luckily we had our Yeti flasks with us at Efteling – they just about lasted the day. Would 100% go back – totally magical and very thoughtfully put together. Oh and the pancake restaurant is so charming. And the fountain show is a brilliant way to end the day!

Walking into Bookstore Dominicanen feels like stepping into a dream. The building itself is breathtaking—a stunning blend of history and books that makes you want to slow down and soak it all in. The selection is incredible, from bestsellers to hidden gems, and the atmosphere is pure magic. Whether you’re a book lover or just love beautiful spaces, this is an absolute must-visit in Maastricht. 📚✨

It amazing how the Dutch people repurposed their old church and became a such beautiful bookstore. The title of most beautiful bookstore in the world is second to none! The old church Become a bookstore is much better some of the other churches became a bar and restaurant or some became an apartments if you asked me! You can slap have a cup of coffee or something in the back of the bookstore to admire the old church of the bookstore or the book you just purchased!

Absolutely stunning bookstore inside a historic church. The architecture is breathtaking, the books are well-curated, and the little café adds a cozy touch. A must-visit for book lovers and anyone who appreciates history and design. The most impressive detail was that the figures on the ground were grave lids(ledger stones).

Boekhandel Dominicanen is truly one of the most beautiful bookstores I have ever visited. Located inside a stunning former church, it offers a magical atmosphere enhanced by colorful lighting that makes the place even more captivating. The book selection is broad and well curated. However, it can get very crowded at times, especially on weekends, likely because many tourists come just to look around, so going up the stairs can feel quite packed and a bit uncomfortable.

AMAZINNNGGG PLACEEE UGHHHH!! Booksa + nice architecture / interior = perfect combo!!!!! I would spend hours here just taking picture videos while reading some books <3 the collection is also quite complete with a lot of english books 📚 they have also a lot of stationary and souvenirs <3

Such an amazing place!! It was my first time visiting bookstore that used to be a church. There are murals on the dome and beautiful, calm marble details near the bookshelves. Even though I didn’t find a book I wanted, just sitting in the cafe with a coffee and soaking in the atmosphere was a joy in itself. The café takes last orders at 5:45 PM. It looks like they only serve non-alcoholic drinks at the moment, it’d be perfect if they offer a glass of 🥂 too!

Bookstore located in a former church in the pedestrian city center of Maastricht. The place is more than magnificent and very pleasant, there is also a cafe where you can sit down to have a coffee or other. I stop by every time I visit this city. I highly recommend it.