Unbelievably beautiful cathedral! Have seen quite a few in my lifetime but this one was special. Beautifully restored and not too busy. Loved the inside even more than the outside.

If you are only in Chartres for a few hours spend them visiting the incredible and Architecturally astounding Cathedral. Being the first UNESCO awarded and supported further by the volume of original stain glass. If able to stay for the evening the light show on and around this Cathedral and the surrounding Chartres centre is highly recommended.

Beautiful cathedral of Chartres. They made beautiful renovations, everything is really clear and neat. Even with clouds and no sunshine, the inside is bright enough to see through the painted glasses of the windows. They are marvelous piece of art. If you have the chance to be in the area, you should take the time to walk there and look for yourself how gigantic and stunning it is. What actually surprised me the most is how modern they are inside. They have contactless payment card machine for donation at each corner of the cathedral. So if you don't have coins like me, you can still use your card to pay to lit a candle or novena. The hours of the priest are written on a card board inside. The confessional is brightly litten and has a priest waiting inside for anyone who wants to confess theirs sins. This is unseen for me before today in France. There is also a treasury room which you have to pay to access it. Overall a great place to visit. I advise to park your car at the parking lot of Cathedral. There almost non existant place to park there.

Magnificent, historic, surrounded by lots of cafes, bars, restaurants and shops and not flooded with tourists when we visited. Chartres is an utterly beautiful city well worth a couple of days of your time. BEWARE, the cathedral is atop a hell of a climb up through steeply sloped streets.

An excellent holy place in the heart of Chartres, our lady of Chartres Cathedral is a must visit. You can visit during the day for prayer and tourism and during the night for an exquisite laser show. Enjoy...

One of the greatest High Gothic cathedrals now reinvented with its controversial very light painting of the pillars and vaulted ceilings… it grew on me as we walked round, I concluded it’s wonderful not least by setting off the magical 13th C stained glass. We love the way it feels it’s still an active place of worship, not the case in all French cathedrals.

A beautiful cathedral that easily rivals the Paris equivalent. We were lucky to visit at a time where it was illuminated at night. Very impressive. However if you're visiting the crypt, make sure you are told correctly where the tour starts, as we were given wrong instructions and therefore missed it. Staff could have been more helpful here.

We went to see Palace of Versailles as a group. The place is beautiful. The gardens are equally impressive and massive; renting a golf. We rented a golf cart, it was well worth the money to explore comfortably. We made reservations in advance, we waited around 20–30 minutes to get inside. Everything was impressive. The negative part is the crown inside. But once in the garden it was so much better.

This was one of the most impressive places I have seen with my own eyes! I have a landscape engineering degree and the palace gardens were often referred to in books, by teachers and were always a source of inspiration. I’m really glad I got to see them in real life. My partner proposed on a boat on the canal, it was all very romantic (I said yes!). The palace interior and expositions were also quite impressive, I was in awe the whole time.

Absolutely stunning palace with a fascinating history. Highly recommend Stephanie from Paris to versailles. We booked via Viator. She was amazing, amusing and speaks multiple languages. Also recommended getting a golf cart to see the gardens and time it to see a fountain operating. Times are on Versailles site but Stephanie organised it perfectly. The fountains do not operate during colder months due to freezing pipes. Gardens close too. See my photos for golf cart hire location. The gardens would look better in spring but that’s the joy of the first ever formal garden- stunning all year round. Take your license. The most amusing part of our visit was all of the TikTokers and Instagramers. So self indulgent and very very funny.

The castle itself is amazing too, but this time it was the Versailles Opera. Small venue, but that makes it cozy and beautiful. The services in terms of infrastructure, such as the cloakroom and buffet, are minimal, only one of each. Not too good for the crowd; expect lines and queues. The rest is wonderful and beautiful as expected.

This Palace was truely beautiful and I highly recommend. As a group of four we did the tour and saw 12 rooms out of the 2,300 and a bit of history with the tour. They were very good with safety and supportive to English. You could get the tour in several languages and the rooms were amazing. Very beautiful, only downside is its huge populatarity so it was quite overcrowded considering it's Autum/Winter here in France. Good option for a tourist. Very pretty. Merci beaucoup.

We spent about a day and a half exploring Versailles and absolutely loved it. Here are a few tips that might make your visit smoother: The Passport ticket is the best value since it gives you access to everything — the main palace, gardens, and both the Grand and Petit Trianon. I had originally bought tickets just for the Trianons, but discovered you also need Musical Gardens tickets to walk through the gardens to get there. Otherwise, you’d have to walk all the way around the perimeter and hope to find an open gate. Get an audio guide or download one on your phone since the signs are in French. The guided tours start around 9:30 a.m. — just check the language. I mistakenly booked the Private Apartments tour in French but used the Google Translate app to follow along (it worked surprisingly well, though it uses a lot of data). The tour meets in the Ministers’ Building to the right of the main entrance, up the stairs. After our tour, the audio guide line was over 30 minutes long, so get it first thing in the morning. Later in the day, around 4 p.m., the crowds thinned out and there was no line. If you have limited time, start with the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon. They’re smaller, more personal, and give you a sense of royal life away from the main palace. The Grand Trianon was the king’s retreat; the Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette’s, is charmingly modest. It’s about a 30–45 minute walk through the gardens, or you can take the tram for a small fee. The gardens are enormous — we walked about 6 to 9 miles. You’ll see manicured trees, fountains, statues, and even a lake with boats. On certain days, the Musical Gardens feature classical music playing from hidden speakers, adding a lovely atmosphere. Bring a hat and water. There are some restaurants and a bathroom, but there can be a very long line. If possible, take a guided tour — it gives you access to areas not open to general visitors, like the King’s private study, reception rooms, and the beautiful royal chapel (where general admission visitors can only peek in from the doorway). Plan for a lot of walking and wear comfortable shoes. There are golf carts you can rent by the hour to cover more of the garden than by foot. Versailles is vast, breathtaking, and full of history — an unforgettable experience well worth taking the time to explore fully.

The Versailles Castle is a beautiful building with stunning views but if you only have a little time in Paris this is not a must see. The inside has some stunning rooms with beautiful furniture and paintings. The view of the garden from the second floor is exceptional. The gardens and lakes are a really good choice if you’re visiting with your family. The only downside of the palace are the giant crowds in the rooms and by the toilets, so you have to be patient. The tickets were about 60€ for adults and 0€ for children (Attention! The garden is not free for children, it’s 10€)

Notre-Dame absolutely took my breath away! The cathedral is even more beautiful in person than in pictures — the details on the outside are incredible, and the stained glass inside is just magical. You can really feel the history in every corner. What’s amazing is that it’s completely free to enter the main cathedral! You can just walk in, take your time, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s such a peaceful, awe-inspiring place right in the middle of Paris. Even though parts are still being restored, it’s 100% worth visiting. Don’t miss it — it’s one of those spots that truly captures the spirit of Paris!

An absolute must see when visiting Paris. If you’re able to climb up the towers, I highly recommend it. We were able to get a ticket for 6 PM and made it to the top right around 7 PM in time for sunset. It is over 400 steps of a spiral staircase, but totally worth the view. As for the cathedral highly recommend booking your tickets two days in advance so you don’t have to wait in the extremely line long line. But if you do wait in the line, it does move pretty fast. The cathedral has been restored beautifully. It was such an amazing thing to see.

What a breathtaking building! It’s truly stunning, from both close up and at a distance. Whether in the day time or night-time. Although the rear is not finished with the rebuild following the fire it’s still brilliant. The detailing on the front facade is gorgeous. It’s free to enter the main cathedral but the queues are SO long that you’ll need to decide whether the time spent queuing and missing all the other amazing sites of Paris is worth it for you personally. You really have to see it in person to truly appreciate all the intricacies.

An Absolute Must-Visit - Top 3 in Paris! ​Visiting Notre Dame was a truly moving experience, and it's easily in our top 3 must-visit sites in Paris. The history of this building is just breathtaking. ​We used a tour guide, which was a great decision as they brought the cathedral to life with amazing stories about its design, architecture, and its famous association with "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame." Learning about the historical artifacts that are housed inside, like the legendary Crown of Thorns, was incredible. ​Seeing it standing so resiliently after the tragic fire is a powerful reminder of its importance to Paris and the world. Even with the ongoing restoration, the spirit and grandeur of this iconic cathedral are undeniable. You simply cannot miss it.

Notre-Dame de Paris is nothing short of breathtaking. The cathedral stands as a powerful symbol of history, culture, and timeless beauty. The Gothic architecture is stunning from every angle — the intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and iconic rose windows are even more impressive in person. Walking around the cathedral, you feel the weight of centuries of craftsmanship and devotion. Despite the crowds, the atmosphere still manages to be peaceful and awe-inspiring. It’s easy to see why this place has touched so many people for so many years. The surrounding area on Île de la Cité adds to the charm, with lovely views of the Seine and plenty of quiet corners to take in the scenery. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want a moment of reflection in the heart of Paris — Notre-Dame is absolutely worth the visit.

Notre dame was absolutely beautiful and stunning on the outside. As a UK tourist, it looked so grand and magnificent in person like a historic piece of artwork where years of hardwork building and sculpting had gone into it. The wait outside wasn't too long and the queue was organised. However, I felt the inside of the cathedral needed a bit more work and improvement with some of the displays, it didn't seem to captivate me as much inside as the outside. Also the historic art virgin and child statue was moved outside suddenly on a pole and that concerned me with the weather outside causing more wear and tear. But overall it was a great attraction to visit.

Very cool seeing this beautiful cathedral. I recommend. Is quite crowded but go early in the morning perhaps or on weekdays and off season to get the most of your experience. Very neat. We didn't go in, just saw from outside as we felt that was enough, also huge cues.

This cemetery was so great, I ended up going twice. Some of the headstones are so amazing, you have to just walk around and see where you end up. If I could have spent a day here, I would have. I do understand that headstones are close together and probably difficult to maintain, but in some areas, the weeds are so tall and areas are overgrown :(

The counterpoint to the glittering Parisian boulevards. Definitely worth a visit at any time of year, but especially outside the summer months. The gloomier the weather, the more beautiful it becomes. Creates a sense of closeness to people you have never known. Every grave tells its own story of transience, sorrow, but also creativity and inspiration. Take your time, you can easily spend a couple of hours here. It's best to give the Morrison tomb a wide berth, as any sense of reflection tends to be drowned out there.

A good site to visit in Paris. There are many interred here who have influenced and inspired you — even if you don’t know it yet. During peak tourist season there are a number of friendly attendants to provide maps and directions. Toilets are in the south. Some accessibility concerns: many ways are cobbled and some steep, although there is a slope going around the whole cemetery.

1. "Where Paris keeps its secrets… 🕯️✨" 2. "Legends never truly die at Père Lachaise 🌿⚜️" 3. "Whispers of history. Shadows of the past. Dare to explore? 👣" 4. "The most hauntingly beautiful place in Paris… 🕊️" 5. "Step into a world where time stands still ⏳🌙" ✨ Père Lachaise Cemetery ✨ Tucked away in the heart of Paris, Père Lachaise isn’t just a cemetery — it’s a labyrinth of secrets, legends, and timeless beauty. 🌿🕯️ Wander through winding cobblestone paths, beneath ancient trees and silent angels, where famous souls like Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, and Chopin rest in eternal slumber. Every corner whispers stories of love, loss, and mystery… Are you brave enough to explore Paris’s most hauntingly beautiful landmark? 🕊️⚜️

Of my 5 visits to Paris, I’ve been here 3 times. This most current visit was the quickest as it started to rain as soon as we entered. Our biggest mistake was not taking a photo of the map as soon as we entered. We ended up bumping into a couple of Americans with a map so we ended up getting a snap of theirs. We didn’t really have a solid plan. All I knew was that I wanted to see Jimmy and that’s it. We ended up on quite the adventure finding Jimmy. It seemed like we walked in circles. The great thing about this cemetery is that there are so many famous people interred here. And many notable families. With that said, you’ll see some elaborate tombstones. You do see a few employees walking the grounds. They all walk around during closing time, ringing their bells to let you know they’re about to close so you better skidaddle or you’ll be locked in. I’m going to do a walking tour the next time I’m in town so I can cover more ground. I’m always so overwhelmed when I’m there It is however super sad to see the graves that are clearly unattended, sometimes looking like they’ve been abandoned.

One of the famous Parisian cemeteries, we arrived there at the end of the day and therefore there were no crowds. At the entrance, there is a map with a list of famous people’s graves, most of which can also be found on Google Maps. All the pleasant impressions were spoiled by an unfriendly female guard who didn’t let me use the restroom 15 minutes before closing.

This iconic Paris cemetary is a place of incredible historical importance. It covers over 44 hectares and there are nearly 70,000 graves here. Millions of people visit here annually. On the day we visited, there were hundreds of people there, mostly from Germany, visiting one particular grave....that of American musician Jim Morrison. A security guard is permanently posted to guard his grave, such is it's popularity. Others interred here include Oscar Wilde, Frédéric Chopin, Marcel Proust and Edith Piaf.....to name a few. I highly recommend visiting this historically rich cemetary.

Absolutely beautiful! With emersive headphones you can really imagine what life was like in the 1600s. We went in mid Sept and almost had the place to ourselves. Beautiful gardens. Highly recommend seeing this amazing chateau.

An absolute gem just outside Paris. Beautiful, peaceful, and exceptionally well run. The audio tour is phenomenal, engaging, easy to follow, and full of fascinating context that brings the château and its history to life. The staff are warm, professional, and clearly care about maintaining the property’s magic. It feels like a hidden gem compared to the larger, more chaotic attractions. Take your time exploring the gardens, and don’t miss the rooftop views. They are breathtaking. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a truly enjoyable and well-managed cultural experience.

We only came to walk the gardens, so I can't speak about the inside tour. We had visited so many similar places, we assumed it wouldn't offer anything new. It's a bit expensive to just walk the gardens, but we were on vacation, so....you pay. There are many better locations that offer walking in the garden for free. Consider that before visiting here.

great Christmas show in the château! we loved it! don't miss the projection show! better buy tickets in advance. the hot wine in the château is worth to try too!

I you want to realize where Versailles comes from , you have to visit the chateau of Vaux le Vicomte. It took roughly 20 years to achieve this fabulous and human size castle that inspired Louis XIV to order the construction of the chateau de Versailles. Take the audio guide to enjoy the visit to its fullest. Check the hours because it is not open year round.

A must see if you are visiting Paris! The audio tour is also a must. Each room tells a story and the audio is very entertaining. We didn’t get to see Hercules up close but I would recommend renting a golf cart because it’s a very far walk.

Nestled in the French countryside, this magestic chateau sits on a sprawling 1200 acres. Rich in history and legends. There a fantastic audio tour that is included in your 18 euros entry fee. Make sure you take advantage of it. The gardens are splendid designed and very relaxing to walk through. Golf cart rentals are available for 25 euro an hour. Don’t miss admiring the drive up to the chateau that is tree lined with gorgeous trees hundreds of years old. Absolutely beautiful.

Fantastic day out, bought the Gold level fast passes so walked on to most rides, wasn’t overcrowded. Little bit more of a language barrier then say at Disney but it didn’t cause us any issues. Highly recommend visiting even if you don’t know the comics as the rides are amazing!

Good theme park in northern France, 45 minutes from Paris. If you enjoy Asterix and Obelix you will enjoy this parc. Themed after them. Easy to get to, easy parking. A bit expensive tbh 20 euro at the time of writing the review. The rest of the parc is a bit on the cheaper side of the theme parc pricing. Merchandise is a bit more reasonable priced then other Parcs, also goes for food and drinks. They have some really great coasters, and also a lot of lesser thrill rides for if you have smaller children. Indeed a parc for the whole family. The "Greek" part of the parc seems a little worn down and could use a bit of a overhaul but the Icarus ride there is really great. The best parts are the Egyptian area and the village area. Recommend if you are in the area!

Great theme park. Rides are great and queues are short. Longest queue is around 45 mins on bank holiday in August. They have worked hard on the theming. So much better than Alton Towers.

Great day at Parc Asterix on Halloween 2025. The park was decorated fantastically and the staff did a great job creating scary moments (my son was terrified by the chainsaw man). The Parc feels like it's split in two, one area around the lake feels more dated and in need of refurb, whereas the area with Toutatis is much better. The Parc has a great selection of rides and coasters - Toutatis in particular is amazing and worth the admission alone. Kids enjoyed it and I'd happily return. Would recommend it over Disney for rollercoaster enthusiasts.

Parc Astérix was hands down the best theme park experience we had in Paris. It’s more affordable than Disneyland Paris and offers a wider variety of rides; especially for thrill seekers. From roller coasters to immersive themed zones, the park delivers nonstop fun without the need for a fast pass. The only real downside is accessibility. Unlike Disney, which is easily reached via public transportation, getting to Parc Astérix requires a bit more planning. It’s located outside the city in Plailly, and while there are shuttle options, they’re less frequent and not as straightforward. Food options are pretty much what you’d expect from most parks; not the best, but they get the job done. Another thing to note: their operating hours are more limited than other theme parks we’re used to. Depending on the season, the park may close earlier or be open fewer days, so it’s worth checking ahead when planning your visit. Still, once you arrive, the experience is absolutely worth it. We loved our time there and would recommend it to anyone looking for high-energy attractions and a break from the usual tourist circuit.

Lovely place, full of amazing rides with a good choose of rollercoasters for everyone. Lots of activities live people in costumes and the Coliseum where performances take place. It's like Disneyland.

Great theme park, with an attention to the theme throughout the park and each area. The staff were obviously happy at work and had fun with the visitors. It was hot the day we visited and the staff had water pistols, a great fun addition to the queue. The park was very clean and well looked after, the rides all worked all of the day. My only negative is that Toutatis was not operating all day and no one seemed to be able to tell us why. We will definitely be coming back.

The experience as a family is 100% and you make infinity of core memories! The organization, the set-up and walking distance between the rides are totally walkable. Hint, have your youngest kid at a hight of 120cm to be able to let them ride almost everything (Indiana Jones is 140cm hight requiret) The app crashed so many times, that I'm more than happy to delete it after the trip! Bring your own food! And beverage!

Absolutely worth the trip! Any Marvel Avengers fan will be in love here. Super fun rides! Absolutely loved the Avengers rollercoaster ride and the Spiderman ride. The Spiderman ride was super cool because you got to sling webs at enemies just like Spiderman. Awesome merchandise store with cool Avengers merch! Huge indoor dining area with lots of food options, including vegan options! Try the vegan salad at Studio 1, it’s great! Also you can get your picture with Mickey Mouse and other characters here!! Really fun, clean, exciting, nostalgic, amazing park! Really cool animatronic Iron Man looks so realistic! Life-size Iron Man Hulkbuster suit at the Stark Factory was so cool. Really enjoyed all the Stitch & Angel merch stores. I had a great time!!! Shout out to Walt Disney, thank you, I love you! Shout out Stan Lee, thank you, I love you! ❤️🥰🙌🎉

This place is amazing. If you have kids or are a kid at heart and have time to go, do it. Take comfortable shoes because the queues are immense. However the atmosphere is superb. The only down side is the price for everything on site. But well worth going just for the evening show and the music....... Warning the music is like an earworm and becomes an obsession if not careful.

Disney Studios is a fantastic park and (normally) i would go as far to say i prefer it over the main Disney park....but.... it is having major work done, and as such this has vastly decreased the park's size. The rest of it still keeps the Disney charm though. Despite visiting at the weekend we found the queues were not as bad as expected (apart from Spiderman). Worth bringing your own snacks in otherwise you'll be waiting a while and paying a lot for it. GOOD 👍 Attention to detail, especially in the sets. Looks fantastic. Some amazing rides. BAD 👎 Half of it is shut off. The old "Backstage Tour" ride has been rebranded and shrunk and is a shadow of it's former self.

The place is nice, but tiny. The attractions are good, and I paid for a "fast pass", which is utterly expensive, but you can only use it once in every attraction, which is absolutely unfair. You pay almost triple the normal fare, so you should be able to enter as many times as you wanted, like it is in Universal parks in Florida, but no. If you want to reenter one attraction, you have to do the normal lane. Unbelievable. And, to aggravate things, several attractions were damaged or closed, which made things much worse, because you have not a lot of choices. Rest aside, the park is enjoyable for the family as ever other Disney park (I know also the ones in Florida).

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Walt Disney Studios has transformed so much in recent years! The Ratatouille ride is still a must-do, incredibly immersive and very Parisian (currently under renovation but set to reopen even better in 2026). The new Avengers Campus is a highlight — Spider-Man and Flight Force are thrilling, and the whole Marvel area is full of energy and character encounters. Pixar theming adds charm throughout the park, and with the upcoming expansions (Frozen, Lion King, new entrance hub, Pixar lands), the future looks amazing. Crowds can be heavy, but the magic and quality of the attractions keep me coming back.

Doesn't have the wow factor as the main theme park but certainly is still a great day out. Make sure you leave enough time in your trip to fully explore Walt Disney Studios, do the rides and make sure you see some shows. Nice that they are next door to each other so heading from one to the other on the same day isn't a problem. Tower of Terror is still a great ride after all these years!

Disneyland Paris is an absolute magical experience! From the moment you enter, you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The park is beautifully themed, the rides are exciting for both kids and adults, and there’s so much to see and do. The parades and shows are spectacular, full of energy and charm. Food and merchandise options are plentiful, and the staff are friendly and helpful, making the whole visit smooth and enjoyable. It’s easy to spend a whole day exploring everything. Truly a must-visit for Disney fans and anyone looking for a fun, unforgettable experience in France!

Fantastic!! Absolutely worth the trip! Delicious food, friendly staff, awesome rides, cool attractions, beautiful park, amazing park design, fun merchandise, plenty of places to enjoy, fun for kids and adults of all ages. The restaurants had a wide variety of foods! I loved their vegan options. Incredible design of the Star Wars area was my favorite. Fun parade of costumed dancers dancing down Main Street upon arrival was great. Everything is well done here, all of the staff are top notch. The rides are super fun and make you want to re-ride them immediately. The merchandise shopping has an endless selection all over the park. Beautiful fireworks light show at night upon park closing is definitely worth waiting to see. Definitely worth staying in a walking distance hotel nearby so you aren’t stuck waiting for public transit at the end of the night!!!!!!!!! Shout out to Walt Disney, we all love you!

Both parks are equally good so it’s well worth getting tickets for both. You can comfortably allow a day for each if you have never been before. If you go for a second/third/fourth time you can probably make a long day of it and do the rides and attractions you know you want to do in a single day. The parks are not as big as the ones in Florida but not far off. As ever with a trip to Disney, you can’t expect to turn up and get a table at one of the character restaurants so book those as soon as you’re able to. And check what the situation is with fast passes online before getting there. I believe the days of getting them with your entrance tickets are gone so definitely worth checking before you arrive. Meeting the characters is great but it absolutely devours your time in the parks so decide early on if you want to get into all that. Make sure you download the app before getting there and connect to the park WiFi on arrival. It’s great for seeing the wait times for rides and where to head if you’re doing rope drop. The only thing that can let it down for me are the staff but hey, Disney did decide to build it in France. They could do with taking a leaf out of Tokyo Disney’s book.

Incredible experience everyone needs to go regardless of age and gender! Staff were amazing and so helpful, we had fast track and can’t recommend it enough. They had a gluten free buckwheat crepes, chocolate covered strawberries and a turkey leg, it wasn’t much but all tasted very good. It was a very clean park with lots to do. The firework display was fantastic and so were the parades and shows.

​Absolutely magical experience, especially during the autumn/Halloween season! The decorations were incredible—the pumpkins, fall foliage, and festive touches created such a unique and fun atmosphere across the park. The main highlight is always the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, which looked stunning in all its pink glory. ​We loved the character interactions; seeing Mickey and Minnie dressed up for Halloween was a special touch, and the parade was energetic and high-quality. Major shoutouts to the rides we experienced: Phantom Manor was a beautifully dark classic, and Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain delivered that thrilling punch of speed and excitement. Everything, from the themed snacks and treats to the overall upkeep of the grounds, was top-notch. ​A truly unforgettable visit—definitely recommend going during the fall months for the special festive ambiance!

An amazing place for adults and children alike. Especially those with children should visit it. Be prepared to be patient at some of the rides, but it's worth the wait. You must see the parade in the afternoon, and the evening show after the fireworks is something you will never see anywhere else.

This is a fantastic place to visit,from the UK it’s ideal,so close by plane,just like hopping on a bus. Basically it’s a dream come true for age groups especially the really young,to see the wonderment in their eyes will stay with us forever. All the staff we met were amazing,nothing was too much trouble,everything you could possibly need was well catered for and nothing was too much trouble,the only thing I would say though is pace yourselves because this place is vast and you can wear yourself out very easily if you try to do too much in a day. We will surely come again as it’s a destination that caters for the youngest to the grandparents,”absolutely awesome “.

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

Historical & Legendary Cathedral This is one of the oldest Cathedrals in the world. It witnessed the crowning of Kings in the Middle Ages and was always an amazing beacon of faith for the Catholic Church. It is currently ongoing a bit of renovation but still looks fabulous. If you come to Reims you will see the Cathedral it is the absolute one and only building you need to see visit. We were also very impressed by the inside the ceilings are so high that they give you this feeling of Grandness- ABSOLUTE must see !

Extremely beautiful church! Huge and with nice information inside! They have a shop as well as some brochures for more information. It is a must for people interested in French history and Gothic architecture. You cannot miss the Marc Chagall's piece of art!

A true masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Cathédrale de Reims captivates visitors with its soaring spires, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking façade. Inside, sunlight streams through stained-glass windows of multiple colors and designs, casting vibrant patterns that tell stories from history and scripture. Every corner reveals centuries of craftsmanship, from the delicate arches to the detailed sculptures. Whether you are drawn to architecture, art, or history, the cathedral offers an unforgettable experience where light, color, and stone come together in perfect harmony.

We did the roof tour. Nine euro each and very easy to book on their website. 249 steps with no stopping places so be prepared for a hike. Our tour was in French but he did a little bit in English for us. Some surprises up there which I won't spoil

The beauty and grandeur of this cathedral cannot be conveyed in words. It is here that you can feel the power of this place. Here you will feel all the energy of centuries. It was here that 31 kings were crowned. A majestic cathedral.

Notre Dame was the most stunning cathedral that I've ever had the pleasure of seeing. It was beautiful inside and fill with relics and beautiful artworks. It was an awesome experience. If you ever have the chance to see go there do so.

One of the most beautiful cathedrals in France. It was built in the Gothic style and is truly a masterpiece of architecture. The exterior is incredibly detailed, with stunning sculptures and tall towers that immediately catch your eye. Inside, the high ceilings, colorful stained-glass windows, and peaceful atmosphere make the experience unforgettable. It’s amazing to think how much history this place holds — it was the traditional site for the coronation of French kings. The best part is that entry is free, so it’s definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a breathtaking place to explore. Highly recommended!

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.

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!

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 😋

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.

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.

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.

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!

If you can do take a moment to stop and admire this cathedral inside and out. It’s particularly beautiful when seen lit up in the evening. If you fancy attending gluten and dairy free patisserie, the cafe opposite - Isabella - in the main square is pricey but delicious

Constructed at the turn of the 9th century, the Palatine Chapel in Aachen stands as a testament to the ambition and legacy of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor. Originally conceived as the centerpiece of his imperial palace complex, the chapel was designed not only as a place of worship but also as a powerful symbol of his newly established empire's grandeur and a physical representation of the a "new Rome". Its architectural brilliance lies in its unique fusion of classical, Byzantine, and Carolingian elements.

Visiting Aachen Cathedral is like stepping into the heart of European history. As soon as you walk in, the scale and grandeur hit you — soaring ceilings, intricate mosaics, and that unmistakable sense of centuries pressing down in the best possible way. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason. Its mix of Carolingian, Gothic, and Baroque architecture feels like a living timeline. The Palatine Chapel, with its golden mosaics and octagonal dome, is breathtaking — especially when sunlight streams in and makes the colors glow like liquid gold. One of the highlights is the Imperial Throne of Charlemagne, where history literally sits before you. Imagine emperors being crowned here; it’s humbling and kind of surreal. The cathedral treasury is also incredible — relics, chalices, and artifacts that tell stories you won’t find in guidebooks. Accessibility is good, though it can get crowded, especially during weekends or special services. That said, the quiet corners and chapels give you space to reflect, take photos, or just marvel at the centuries-old craftsmanship. If you pay €1 you can take photos and videos.

The cathedral was built in 796, one of the oldest cathedral in Europe, belongs to the first 12 World Heritage Sites lister by UNESCO. This cathedral is most famous for being the resting place of Charlemagne - the emperor who defined the shape and character of medieval Europe. Here is also the coronation church of 31 German kings from 936 to 1531. The cathedral is a blend of history of architechture and decoration: Carolingian, Byzantine, Gothic, Neo-gothic, Baroque. Every detail is amazing

It’s a magnificent piece, the top of the line early medieval architecture. And in great shape there is also not too many people it’s in the center of Aachen must go for that area

Most unusual- keeps the look of the old times. A very beautiful cathedral a lot out of the main path.

didn't get time to go inside but it's a great place to sit and look at the stunning architecture, the town is nice and the sandwiches from one of the many coffee shops was great, really enjoyed the place.

Absolutely beautiful! We parked in a structure not too far from here near city center. Look in my reviews for the location. This beautiful display of ancient architecture was very impressive. There is a great place to take a picture in front of the gate towards the main road. We just stood in awe!

It's a strange thing to find such Intact and extensive Roman ruins so far north in Europe! In many ways this building is better preserved than some of the buildings in Rome itself. Very informative interpretation, reasonably priced and presenting good views of the city!

Excellent landmark to visit in the middle of the delightful town of Trier. Museum offers a unique insight into local Roman and political history. Limited public conveniences and places to rest do reduce overall enjoyment, however there's many café options and restaurants nearby.

Stumbled across this Roman structure. Relatively quiet access, amazing looking ancient structure around a more modern area. Well preserved, access allowed into the structure.

Amazing site to see - not often you csn see Roman ruins from the 2nd century. Built from huge sandstone blocks, some weighing 6 tons - without modern machinery. The only one of the 4 original gates still standing, it was spared because it was used as a church. Massive structure in the center of town that should inspire awe. A remnant of a different age, when the Roman Empire ruled much of Europe.

I visited on a Tuesday late afternoon at around 1600. It is a very well preserved Roman building, where you could enter and walk up to the third floor of the building for a ticket of €5 (Student ticket). The explanation on the history of this building was very detailed and informative. 1 hour is well sufficient for a detailed visit for this landmark and learning its history. Overall, it is a fantastic experience to learn about the history of this area and I would definitely recommend people to visit.

The fact that this was built around 170 AD is absolutely mindblowing. I loved it! They still have some remnants of religious things in it, which was very interesting to see since it was also turned into a church at some point. Went on July 24, 2025

Utterly breathtaking and awe inspiring Cathedral. Immensely beautiful, clean and free to enter. Excellent support service in the Information centre. Many lovely older worlde cafes nearby.Toilets outside the Cathedral are clean and well maintained.

The Cologne Cathedral is absolutely amazing and breathtaking! Its enormous size and stunning Gothic architecture make it one of the most impressive landmarks I’ve ever visited. Even though it’s often crowded, everything feels well organized, and the atmosphere remains peaceful and respectful. It’s also right next to the Hauptbahnhof (main train station), so it’s very easy to reach — perfect for a quick stop or a longer visit. The gift shop is lovely, with nice souvenirs and books about the cathedral’s history. I especially recommend visiting on rainy days — the interior feels even more magical and calming, with the sound of rain outside and the light coming through the stained glass windows. Truly a must-see spot in Cologne!

During our Rhine River Cruise, we came here to see this great piece of Gothic architecture. We came with our guide. Since they are not allowed inside, we saw it ourselves. It took more than 600 years to complete this magnificent Church. It was declared World Heritage Site in 1996. It is most visited landmark in Germany. More than 6 million tourist visit every year. It is the third tallest Church in the world. This medieval Church is continuously renovated. It is very beautiful from inside. The stained window glasses and other piece of art and paintings are magnificent. It's open from 10 to 5 from Monday to Saturday and 1 to 4 on Sundays. Minimum one hour is required to see it properly. The trolley bags and other big bags are not allowed inside.

An absolutely breathtaking masterpiece, one of the most awe-inspiring buildings you’ll ever see. Standing before it, you can truly feel the weight of centuries, the devotion, and the artistry that went into every single stone. The towering spires seem to touch the sky, and when the sunlight hits the stained glass windows, the entire interior glows with color and quiet power. It’s not just a cathedral - it’s a symbol of human perseverance, faith, and creativity. Construction began in the 13th century and took more than 600 years to complete, yet the vision never faded. Every detail, from the delicate sculptures to the massive arches, tells a story of patience and belief that beauty is worth waiting for.

Its foundation was laid in the 13th century and it was only completed in the 19th century; it rises in the very heart of the city as one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture. Both the details on the exterior and the historic, tranquil atmosphere you feel once you step inside are truly mesmerizing. Just walking around in the silence, with light filtering through the stained glass and the ceilings soaring above you, is an experience in itself. It’s a landmark that’s become synonymous with Cologne and, in my opinion, a truly magnificent place that you definitely shouldn’t miss.

We came for the Christmas markets but were wowed by this cathedral. Absolutely stunning. It is free, which is amazing!!! We walked right in. We did pay €20 for the whole family to go up the south tower. We did not buy these ahead. It was a little tight up the stairs. 535 of them. We saw the bells and they rang when we were by them, which was cool.

One of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever seen. Cologne Cathedral isn’t just a building — it dominates the city. The closer you stand, the more unreal it feels: every detail, every shadow, every tower looks carved with impossible precision. Inside, the atmosphere drops into silence instantly. It’s calm, powerful, almost overwhelming in the best way. If you’re in Cologne, this is the one place you absolutely can’t skip. Truly unforgettable.

Location is convenient along the river so if one is coming from a river cruise docking, can walk over in minutes. There are a lot of people, so would recommend booking tickets ahead of time. We decided to go late and managed to get 2 of the last 3 tickets within the 2 hrs before closing. Do note that there are discount tickets closer to end of day for a reason. The stations close half an hour before the entire museum close (6pm close then 5:30pm stations are cleared). With the amount of people, it is hard to go through everything before stations stop if it’s close to closing time. We went on a bad day: close to closing time, weekend, and a day where shops in the town are closed for All Saints’ Day, so everyone went to the museum. The layout of the museum does not allow for multiple ways to get to different floors/rooms. There is only 1 elevator for guests to use. So it will be a long wait going between floors and stations to get any free chocolate (we got none… too long of lines and stations were closing). But overall, still a good place to visit. Would just suggest to not go late in the day but more during daytime in a non-weekend, that should make the experience more enjoyable.

I had a wonderful time at the chocolate museum. Plenty of rooms with easy-going info about the origins of chocolate, cocoa, its processing, packaging, transport, and commercialization. You can see in loco a section of a production line and taste a sample of chocolate. Also some interesting historical info on where it all began. It is a great museum for families, kids or only adults. plenty of games and experiments for the young folks. I was so entertained that I almost forgot to take photos. If you are in town don’t miss this museum.

The entrance was guarded by a tall female staff who looked very angry and not at all welcoming. The museum content was very extensive, curated with great detail and academic accuracy, very educational. You also get to try the milk chocolate as it was produced. We only wish there was a water fountain or at least a vending machine that sells water because the chocolates were quite rich and sweet. The cafe staff were very attentive and hospitable, price was reasonable. The entire experience has been most positive but was ruin at the end. I was waiting for my family who went to the washroom by the main door. The museum was closing in a few minutes, I wanted to go to the bench next to the door to put my coat on. The same tall angry female employee from the ticket entrance came to me, wouldn’t allow me a moment for coat and ask me to go out the door because “we are closing in a minute”. There were still people in the gift shop, at the coat check and coming from the bathrooms at the time. Being the only Asian female in the hall I felt unfairly targeted and discriminated.

It was in the year 2025, during Christmas, I was exploring the very famous Christmas markets in Köln. It was extremely cold and I needed some hot chocolate. There was none available in the market. So we decided to step inside the cafe and we were awestruck by their service. Even though itwas heavily crowded, we got two seats quickly and ordered their hot chocolate and banana waffle. The hot chocolate was extremely delicious, particularly with the cream on top. The waffle had one white chocolate ice cream, something that I had never tasted before and it was extremely delicious. Best part is that the prices were extremely reasonable. I would go there again and agan.

We visited the Lindt Chocolate Museum on Sunday the 23rd, and it was very busy. Luckily, Max, one of the friendly floor walkers, helped us book tickets online via QR code. The museum was more about learning the history and process of chocolate than eating it, but there were a few tasty samples. The highlight was the wafer dipped in the chocolate fountain—absolutely delicious. Pro tip: when you reach the machinery section, head to the right side for two sample opportunities, as most people go left. Overall, informative and enjoyable, though not quite what I expected.

For 18 euros it’s not the best value for money. There was a good amount of information to read around the museum and the chocolate making room was incredible. However, it was very busy causing a huge amount of queuing and not much chance to enjoy the experience. The free chocolates were a nice touch but for the price of admission there was very little. Gift shop at the end had lots of choice but definitely pricey.

The museum is very interesting but has however a few points for improvement that would make the experience more pleasant. I visited today (23/11/25) at 12. Firstly, for the entire duration of the tour, we couldn't find a single toilet. Maybe it was not properly signed? At the ticket counter, the the ticket officer was unbelievably rude and rushing to pay, even though there was no queue and I was just ensuring she understood the proper time slot that I wanted. Time slots are also another big problem. Unfortunately, the same time slot is allocated to more people than it should be allowed to. This leads to queues during the tour and you can't actually enjoy the experience at its fullest. Also, the crowd is not properly managed by the personnel (for example, the queues for the entry mixes with the ones for the museum cafè and cloakroom), leading to chaos. Neverthless, it was an enjoyable experience.

Fun little place to visit when you come to Germany. There are a variety of shops to check out, as well as places to grab a bite to eat. I would recommend you go early in the day to find nearby street parking.

It's a lovely place, made up of narrow streets and small shops. You can get lost in the narrow streets and find interesting shops along the way. It's a wonderful walking route. You can relax and soak up the atmosphere by sitting and sipping something in the surrounding cafes. It's a wonderful place.

We absolutely loved exploring the Schnoor district in Bremen. It's a truly enchanting and picturesque neighborhood that feels like you've stepped back in time. Wandering through the narrow, cobblestone lanes lined with tiny, historic houses is a magical experience. The area is filled with unique boutiques, artisan workshops, and cozy cafés, each housed in a building with its own character. The atmosphere is lively yet intimate, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll, shopping for unique souvenirs, or simply soaking in the fairytale-like ambiance. It's the heart and soul of old Bremen and an absolute must-see for any visitor. We highly recommend taking your time to explore every little alley.

If there was a German Harry Potter, then it would be filmed in Bremen. The Schnoor district is Bremen’s oldest and most charming neighborhood, with winding alleyways and beautifully preserved half-timbered houses dating back to the 15th–18th centuries. Worth visiting 🙌🏼

When you are in Bremen… definitely visit Schnoor. The area here is not so big but so cute with the little streets, restaurants and shops. Adorable! 🥰 So don’t skip this part of Bremen!!!!

A very beautiful place in the old part of city. Definitely a must-visit if you’re in Bremen. It feels like you've stepped into an old city from several centuries ago.

Very cozy touristic place in Bremen. One of the objects "must see" while viziting Bremen.

there was a festival at the day I arrived, so it was really crowded, full of people everywhere, but after that it was so peaceful there, the air was fresh and the water was clean, it was just so nice to sit there and enjoy the sunshine, both day and night views were so beautiful!! Hamburg is definitely one of my favorite places in Europe!

The port is just huge! We took a tour on a boat for 20€ in order to admire the majesty of the cranes and the huge ships parked on the deck being loaded by containers. There are so many things to see but you need a guide to get the full experience

Visited Hamburg Last year Was amazing trip Beautiful city Clean nice Atmosphere Wonderful views This city swimming in water Water around you everywhere Beautiful feeling Much to do Much places to visit Much and different food All what you need gonna found there This City not sleep Hamburg 😍❤️

Seeing water flow around is satisfying and very beautiful, Hamburg was such a good experience. Go to the elbphilharmonie and watch the beautiful view of the port of Hamburg and entrance is free, if you have kids you can use the lift, if you boat trip at night is a bonus and costs around 20€, then a bus trip during the day also costed around 18€ for 2 hours and I must say everything was worth it

One of the most beautiful poet I have ever been. Its is so lively, you can see tons of containers, cruise ships. If you are going to Germany, make sure to add hamburg harbour in your to do list and also, have a cruise tour. Its really worth trying.

One of the favorite places for a sunday stroll. Plenty things to see. Make sure to catch the ferry 62 for a round trip on the river allowing you to see things from different perspective. Moreover there are plenty of places to eat a nice "Fischbrötchen"!

One of the biggest and most important ports in Northern Europe. A must see when in a Hamburg. Place is really cool and if you’re in luck you’ll catch 2 musicians jamming and rocking some tunes like we found. Don’t leave Hamburg without seeing it!

Wonderful experience, details are incredible, as well as the perfect scaling and diversity of scenes presented. 100% positive memory. Being an adult doesn’t mean itself not for you! Maybe ever better than being a kid. The day/night alternation gives it a magical touch. WOW

Wooooow! Amazing place with a unique experience that lets you walk through different parts of the globe. I loved how much attention to detail was put into everything, and the design often includes funny little scenarios—like taking a bath with a penguin or the sheep pyramid! It’s incredibly creative, yet the landscapes still feel realistic. The night and day versions of the cities are a very cool twist. Also, all the robotics and technology behind the functioning train system—without any crashes—is mind-blowing. I especially enjoyed getting a behind-the-scenes look at the newest addition. One thing to note: it’s a huge place to explore, so plan your visit accordingly to give yourself enough time to enjoy it without rushing from room to room. It can also get quite busy, so be patient and dedicate a full day if possible. There’s a café and food area if you want to take a break during your visit. Definitely recommend it! I’d love to come back and get even more lost in the details.

Absolutely one of the best attractions in Hamburg — and honestly, one of the most impressive exhibits I’ve ever seen. Miniatur Wunderland is massive and filled with astonishing detail. Most Germanic (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) countries and regions have their own area, complete with moving trains, planes, ships, lights, and tiny human stories happening everywhere you look. You could easily spend 3–4 hours here and still not catch everything. It’s not just for model train fans — it’s for anyone who appreciates creativity, craftsmanship, and a bit of magic. The nighttime lighting effects, airports, and little surprises hidden throughout make it incredibly fun for both kids and adults. It can get crowded, so I recommend booking a time slot early in the morning or later in the evening if you can. There’s a café inside with good snacks and drinks for a quick break between sections. Truly a must-see — whether you’re visiting Hamburg for a day or a week, Miniatur Wunderland is worth every minute.

Fantastic venue. Everything feels grounded and made by people who know what visitors will want to have or need. The exhibition itself is spectacular. Lots of details and stories are told ... Sometimes very hidden. Food is fine. Okay price. Reminded me of IKEA. There could be more washrooms. Also, the regular ticket isn't valid for reentry. That's a bit of a bummer since opening hours are until 1am.

Wanted to see this for years and now I've ticked it iff my bucket list! This is hands down the BEST minature railway and car layout you'll ever see! So much to see, you can easily spend all day here! Don't bring the missus, that will only reduce your fun! Definitely get tickets in advance, they sell out quick!

Its easy to see why this is fast becoming the top attraction in Hamburg. Its so much fun and that's consistent with everyone whonis wondering about around you. So much detail that ypu definitely need a visit to the bistro to allow your eyes and brain to catch up. Fantastic day out for everyone. Go. You will be talking about it for a while to come.

As a model railway enthusiast, I have been looking forward to coming to Hamburg to visit Miniatur Wunderland and the truth is that it worth it! I was delighted with the visit and I want to congratulate the whole team for all the impressive work that goes into every part of the model! The technique, the operation, the quality of the details, I love everything in general, especially the airport!! I also really enjoyed being able to eat in the Miniatur Wunderland restaurant. I am sure that in the future I will definitely visit this wonderful place again!