Budapest Top Ten

Flying visit to Budapest? Here are our suggested top ten sights to fit in:

The Danube flows majestically through this thoroughly modern capital city of Hungary, passng Gellért Hill. Buda and Óbuda, are situated mainly in the hills to the west, with commercial Pest on the plains to the east. There are three islands – Óbuda Island, Margaret Island and Csepel Island – and nine bridges, two of which carry railway lines. The Castle District, the River Danube embankments and the whole of Andrássy út have been officially recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here are the top ten sights to fit in on a short break:


1. Houses of Parliament - Pest side of river
This is a stunning building built to rival our own Houses of Parliament. The building guards the Hungarian Holy Crown, Orb and Sceptre and guided tours are available. If possible try to go to an evening concert here.

2. Matthias Church and The Fishermen’s Bastion - Buda side of river
The church was once the place where coronations took place. Its interior layout was first shaped 700 years ago. An original 14th century Gothic portal survives on the south side of the church. Classical music concerts are held here every Friday and Saturday and are well worth attending. It is organ music on Friday and oratorio on Saturdays and both the acoustics and atmosphere are great. Opposite is Fishermen's Bastion, built by Schulek in 1902 and is the stretch of Buda’s defensive wall originally used as market place by the guild of fisherman for selling fish. Tourists still flock there for the unforgettable views of the city and the River Danube.

3. St Stephen's Basilica – Pest side of the river
St Stephen’s Basilica is the largest ecclesiastical building in Budapest and caters for 8000 worshippers at one time. It stands on the same square of the same name. It was designed by Jozsef Hild in 1845 who died before completing it. Architect Miklós Ybl took it over but was amazed to find huge cracks n the building’s outer walls. Less than a week after cordoning it off, the church’s vast dome collapsed. The dome affords a superb view of the city. It finally opened in 1906 by Emeror Francis Joseph. In the Szent jobb kápolna (chapel of the Sacred Right) lies Catholic Hungary's most revered relic - the alleged mummified right hand of St. Stephen.

4. Central Market
This is the largest covered market in the capital and the most attractive. Built in 1890 and restored in 1994 (prior to a visit by Margaret Thatcher!!) it is a popular shopping site for tourists Best buys include leather items, crafts, fruit and vegetables and the famous paprika for making goulash soup.

5. Danube Cruise
No visit to Budapest is complete without a cruise on the river. There are many options available from a short cruise, lunch cruises, dinner cruises with music and simply enjoying the various restaurants on boats moored on the embankments.

6. Gellert Hotel Spa and Baths – Buda side of the river
Budapest is a city of medicinal baths but probably the most charming is in the splendid, sprawling, Art Nouveau Gellert Hotel. The hotel, located at the base of Gellért Hill on the bank of the Danube houses a spring from the 13th century and is very popular with both locals and tourists. The spa is decorated with original Art Nouveau furnishings and the pools have many healing properties. There are many other Spas available including the Thermal Hotel on Margaret Island.

7. Gerbeaud Coffee Shop on Vorosmarty Square
This gorgeous coffee shop has become an institution not to be missed. You can sample cakes and pastries and enjoy tea or coffee in the elegant surroundings decked out in turn-of-the-twentieth-century Austro-Hungarian opulence. Their piano was intended for the Titanic but by some twist of fate never made it on board.

8. Statue Park
Whatever happened to all the statues of Lenin and Stalin from the Communist era? They were all shipped to this park just outside the city. Gigantic statues and memorials collected from all parts of the country have been brought together to make a collection which is probably unique in the world. When you buy your entry ticket, be sure to also buy the informative guide-book which will add meaning and history to the statues.

9. Godollo
It is worth heading out of Budapest for about 30 km to the town of Godollo. The town is renowned for its association with Queen Elizabeth, wife of Franz Josef Emporor of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. The restored Baroque Palace originally Grassaldovich Mansion was the favourite residence of the Queen affectionately known as "Sissy". The Palace has been restored and tourists can wonder through the rooms and gardens.

10. Lazar Lovaspark
The famous Lazar Brothers working farm is not far from Godollo and can be easily combined with the Palace visit. The farm houses the famous Lippanzar stallions and the display of horsemanship by the riders is stunning. Take a ride on the great plains on a cart pulled by oxen and enjoy a typical Hungarian feast in the restaurant. This is a most enjoyable day out of the city.

Brussels Top Ten

Brussells wears three impressive hats, as the capital of Flanders, Belgium and Europe. It started life as a fortress, then developed into a market square and eventually blossomed into the economic, political and social centre of the Flemish capital. There's lots to see in the city from the bizarre comic strip to enjoying its café culture in the Grand-Place. Here is a list of our suggestions:

1. Grote Markt (Dutch) /Grand-Place (French)
Grand-Place is the main tourist attraction of the City of Brussels but its beginnings were less than glamourous. The area was just a swampy sand-bank between two brooks, known as 'broek sella' which gave Brussels its name. The sand bank was reclaimed and turned into 'Niedermerckt' (lower market) and sold French and English textiles, French wines and German beer.

In the Middle Ages wooden houses were built around the market and by the 14th century wealthy families took to building stone mansions which led to the market developing into the main commercial administrative centre. The town hall came in 1402 and by now it was also a political centre. This is where dukes, royalty and emperors were received but the square was also the site of executions.

Today the Grand-Place is a beautiful, wide open cobbled medieval and is Brussels' main market square. It is a great place to hang out and admire the elegant guildhouses which replaced all the wooden homes. Many have admired its beauty including Victor Hugo and Baudelaire who rhapsodised about its charm and appealing looks.

There is a daily flower market between March and October and often accompanied with concerts and a light show in the evening.

The square is where daily business is done and where a flurry of local bars and cafés are a superb example of top quality café culture.

2. Hôtel de Ville - Town Hall
While at the Grand-Place don't forget to visit the Gothic Hôtel de Ville. It dates back to 1402 and is the seat of civic government. It is an attractive building with arched windows, towers and adorned with sculptures including St Michael slaying a she-devil. If you are feeling energetic, climb the 96 metre high Brabantine Gothic tower and enjoy the amazing views over the city.

Address: Grand-Place. Tel +33 (02 279 43 55
Open: Apr-Sept Tues-Wed 3:15pm, Sun 10:45am and 12:15pm; Oct-Mar Tues-Wed 3:15pm
Entry: 3 euros, kids under 6, free

3. Manneken-Pis - 'Pissing Boy' aka Petit Julien
The cheeky, chubby-cheeked Manneken-Pis is a major character in the folklore of Brussels. He is probably Brussels' most photographed statue, yet it is only 60cm high. He was designed by Jerome Duquesnoy and is a small fountain piece where the water emerges from a tiny metal penis that the boys points at the viewer. He is usually stark-naked but sometimes he gets dressed. He has an impressive wardrobe of 600 outfits displayed in the Maison du Roi.

Address: Corner of rue de l'Etuve and rue Chêne.

4. Maison du Roi (French) - Royal Art Museums - Broodhuis (Flemish)
The French name of Maison du Roi is translated as 'the Kings House' but although the building is a richly ornamented masterpiece, no royalty ever lived here. The Flemish called it 'The Bread House' because the house replaced the town's Bread Market which had been there for hundreds of years.

This museum is dedicated to the history of Brussels, and if you have already seen the Manneken-Pis, in here you can take a look at his costumes. The history of Brussels is told over three floors from the Middle Ages to date.

Address: Grand-Place (in front of the Town Hall) Tel +32 (0)2 279 43 62
Open: 10am to 5pm every day.
Closed: January 1, May 1, November 1,11 December 25
Entry: 3 euros

5. Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée - Cartoon-Strip
Did you know that Belgium has more comic strip artists per square kilometre than any other country? If you love cartoons, you may appreciate this museum dedicated to the comic strip. It is housed in the Waucquez Warehouse, a masterpiece in itself, designed by Art Nouveau architect, Victor Horta. You will be taken on the journey a comic strip artist has to make from concept to shop. There's over 5000 original drawings and an entire section to Belgium's famous cartoon character hero - Tin Tin.

Incidentally, you can see six dramatic, surprising and amusing cartoon murals painted on gable ends around the city. These were commission by the city itself. Pop into the tourist office, located in the town hall, to get a map.

Address: 20 Rue de Sables/Zandstraat Tel: +32 (0)2 219 19 80
Open: 10am-6pm Tuesday to Sunday
Closed: Monday and some national holidays
Entry: Adults 7,50 euros, Kids under 12 3 euros.


6. Heysel Park and the Atomium
Heysel park, located in the west of Brussels, is dedicated to recreation and leisure. In 1985 the European Champions Cup tragedy took place in the Heysel stadium killing several spectators. It has been redesigned since then and renamed Stade Roi Baudoin (King Baudoin Stadium).

One of the highlights of the park is the Atomium. This is a glistening 102 metre (335 ft) high model of an atom made out of chrome and steel designed by André Waterkeyn. To really appreciate this structure, take time to gaze up and enjoy the sheer enormity.

It was erected for the 1958 World Fair to symbolise a new 'atomic age'. It is an accurate depiction of an iron molecule that has been magnified 165 billion times. It comprises nine 18 metre diameter steel spheres connected by tupes, all of which contain exhibits.

It is probably more impressive on the outside than inside but a high-speed, glass-roofed lift takes visitors to the top in just 23 seconds where you can stop for a beer and a snack, take in the views and then get the escalators down stopping off at the various spheres.

Address for Atomium: Boulevard du Centenaire, Laeken Tel+32 (0)2 475 47 77
Open: 9am-5pm April to August and 10am-6pm September to March
Entry: 9 euros
Getting there: Heysel Metro

7. Mini-Europe
Next door to the Atomium is Bruparck, a 25 hectare leisure park of several amusements and attractions. This includes a 27 cinema complex called Kinepolis , an all-round Imax screen, a planetarium and a water park called L'Oceade plus a clutch of eateries in 'The Village'

Pride of place though goes to the a display of some of the most famous and symbolic buildings of the countries of the European Union at 1/25th of the original size. You will see gondolas, a TGV train on its way to Paris even hear the unmistakable chimes of Big Ben.

Address: Boulevard du Centenaire, Laeken Tel:+32 (0)2 478 0550
Open: 9.30am-6pm 1-19 April to June, 9.30am-8pm 1-19th July and 20-31 August, 9.30am-12 midnight 20 July to 19th August
Closed: 6 January-31st March
Getting there: Heysel Metro

8. Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Koekelberg - Koekelberg Basilica of the Sacred Heart
This Art Deco church, the fifth largest church in the world, located in the Koekelberg municipality of Brussels. Its impressive dimensions (89 metres high and 167 metres long) look out over the Parc Elisabeth. Though it is modelled on the Sacré-Coeur in Paris it is made of concrete, sandstone and red-brick and, unlike the original, is not gleeming white. King Leopold decided to build it in 1902 and he laid the first stone in 1905. It was finally completed in 1971 in time to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence.

The cupola platform, which has a diameter of 33 metres, gives an excellent view over Brussels and the surrounding area.

Address: Boulevard Leopold II Tel: +32 (0)2 425 8822
Open: 8am-6pm April to September and 8am-5pm October to March
Getting there: Metro Simonis then bus 87

9. Royal Museums of Fine Art - Musées Royaux des Beaux Arts
This is, in fact, two museums. The Museum of Ancient Art founded by Napoleon and is particularly noted for its display of the geat works of Flanders. The other is the Museum of Modern Art. This was added in 1984 and comprises eight floors, many of which are underground. Between them, they offer over 600 years of fine art comprising paintings, sculptures and drawings.

Address: Rue de la Régence 3. Tel: +32 (0)2 508 32 11
Open: 10am-5pm (ticket office closed at 4pm)
Closed: Mondays, January 1, second Thursday of January, May 1 November 1 and December 25
Entry: Adults 5 euros, Audio guide 2.5 euros
Getting there: Metro Central station of Park (line 1), Tram 92, 84, Bus 27,29, 38,95

10. Shopping
No city break would be complete without a spot of shopping.
Antique lovers should descend upon the antiiques market in Place du Grand Sablon where on the square and the streets panning out from the square, the discerning antique lover may find that special piece. Rue de la Paille, Rue des Minimes and Rue de Rollebeek are particularly interesting.

Brussels has its own flea market - the Jeu de Balle Flea Market. Rummage around here for gems, secondhand good and period furniture bargains.

Belgium chocolates ar a must buy. For pralines go to Chocolatier Mary, for a tearoom experience visit Wittamer and for a shop of exceptional displays try Pierre Marcolini. Some chocolates are encrusted with real, yet edible, gold.

If it has to be designer fashion then head for the Galleries. There are three Galeries Saint Hubert, Galeries du Roi and Galeries de la Reine. They are worth popping into just to take a look at the amazing glass roof.

Beijing Top Ten

1. Great Wall of China
This has to be top of the hit list for first time visitors to Beijing. Unsurprisingly, it was listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Legacy in 1987. It spans 6700 km and it took over 200 years to complete. The intention was to keep invadors out and the locals in. Qin Shihuang (221-210 BC), the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty ordered the building of the wall to keep out the Huns from the North. At its closest point it is less than 60km/40 miles from Beijing.

The wall is crumbling and some segments have been restored with four main sites available from Beijing: Badaling, Mutianyu, Huanghua Cheng and Simatai.

Sites:
Badaling: 44 miles (70 km) North West of Beijing. Bus 1 from Qian Men
Entry: RNB 45
Open: 7.30am-5pm daily

Mutianyu: 56 miles (90 km) North of Beijing. Bus 6 from Xuanwu Men
Entry: RNB 34
Open: 7am-6.30pm

Huanghua Cheng: 37 miles (60 km) North of Beijing
Entry: RNB 25
Open: 8am-5pm Mon-Fri 7.30am-5.30pn Sat, Sun

Simatai: 68 miles (110 km) North East of Beijing. Bus 6 from Xuanwu Men
Entry: RNB 40
Open: 8am-5pm


2. The Forbidden City - Gu Gon in Chinese - aka Palace Museum
For almost five centuries, from the Ming Dynasty to the Quing Dynasty, The Forbidden City was home to 24 emperors and their household as well as serving as the ceremonial and political centre of Chinese Goverment. It was called The Forbidden City, because entry was strictly prohibited and unauthorised entry would lead to death!

This rectangular-shaped monument is located in the middle of Beijing, north of Tiananmen Square and is an exemplary example of traditional Chinese palatial architecture. It is laid out over a huge area of 720,000 square metres that has over 800 buildings and 9999.5 rooms (because only heaven could have 10,000 rooms).

Although this is the historic heart of the Chinese Empire dating back to the 15th century, most of the buildings now date back to the 18th century. The city wall is red, but, as yellow is the symbol of the royal family, the Fobidden City is mostly yellow. Roofs are built with yellow glazed tiles, decorations are in yellow and so is the ground.

It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 and is listed by UNESCO as the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world.

Address: Jingshan Front Street, Dongcheng District
Entry: RNB 60 April 1-October 31, RNB 40 November 1-March 31
Buy your tickets at the Meridian Gate or to avoid queues enter from the Gate of Divine Prowess and visit in reverse.
Open: 8.30am to 5pm. April 16-October 15, to 4.30pm October 16-April 15, Allow three hours.
Getting there: Subway Tian'an Men Xi or Tian'an Men Dong

3. Ming Tomb (13 Tombs in Ming Dynasty)
The thirteen tombs of the Ming Emperors are located 50km Northwest of Beijing at the foot of the Tianshou Mountains. Construction of the palatial mausoleum started in 1409 and lasted 4 years. Only the Chang lLng, tomb of Emperor Zhu Di and his empresses, the Dingling tombs, mausoleum of Emperor Zhu Yijun, the thirteenth and longest serving emperor during the Ming Dynasty and the Zhaoling tomb (the twelfth emperor of the Ming Dynasty) are open to the public.

Each emperor's tomb was built at the foot of a separate small hill, but they share a main road called the Sacred Way, and visitors are allowed to walk along its 7 km (4.3 miles) if they wish. Spirit Way is part of this approach and is lined with 18 pairs of giant guardians.

Getting there: Tourist bus routes 1,2,3,4,5. Bus 845 from Xizhi Men (near subway) to Zhengfa Daxue in Changping then a taxi or bus 314 to Da Gong Men.
Entry: to the scenic spots is free.
Spirit Way: RNB 3-
Chang Ling Tomb: RMB 30 November 01 to March31 / RMB 45 (April 01 to October 31
Dingling Tomb: RMB 40 November 1 to March 31 / RMB 60 (April 1 to October 31)
Open: Chang Ling Tomb: 8:30am-5.30pm / Dingling Tomb: 8.40am- 6pm.

4. Tian'anmen Square
This is the biggest city-based square in the world and it was here in 1949, from a rostrum on Tian'anmen Guangchang (the Gate of Heavenly Peace), that Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China.

Tian'anmen Square is circled by Tian'anmen (Gate of Heaven Peace) on its north; the Great Hall of the People on its west; on the east lies the National Museum of China. There are Monument to the People's Heroes and Chairman Mao's Mausoleum on the south.

Tourists and locals mingle here and kite fliers use it to enjoy their sport. This is also where national celebrations are held and where leaders address their people. To give you an idea of size, there are lampposts kitted with megaphones so that crowds of 10,000 people can hear. You can visit the balcony that speakers use (for a small fee) and from here you will get a lovely view over the square. At night the square is lit up giving off a lovely glow.

At sunrise and sunset, the Chine flag, located at the northern end of the square, is raised and lowered by a squad of military men of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Traffic is halted for the occasion and many come to view, so get there early to get a pitch with a good view. You can enter the square freely until 10.30pm.

Getting There: Bus No.1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 20, 52, 57, 22, 54, 120, 802, special bus No.1 and get off Zhongshan Park stop or Tian An Men stop. Subway: Tian'anmen Xi or Tian'an Men Dong or Qian Men
Entry: Tiananmen Square: Free
Tiananmen (Gate of Heavenly Peace): RMB 15
The Great Hall of the People: RMB 15
Chairman Mao's Mausoleum: RMB20 Visit in the morning to avoid queues.
The National Museum of China: RMB30

5. Temple of Heaven (Tiantan)
This is a large park and temple complex that served as a sacred site for five centuries during the Ming and Quing emperors. Here the emperor would make sacrifices during the winter solstice, and pray to heaven and his ancestors, on behalf of his people for bumper harvests. In fact, the complex has the largest sacrificial place in Beijing with imperial altars to Heaven, Earth, the Sun, the Moon super natures.

The park has a large tower made from wood without nails and a thousand species of trees, some over 600 hundreds of years old. Locals go there to practise martial arts and play chess.

There is also an echo wall built in a complete circle. If you stand by the wall, the words are carried along the wall and can be heard on the other side.

Address: on the east of Tianqiao, Chongwen District 67018866
Open: Park 8am-6pm, Temple 8am-5pm
Entry: Park free, Temple RMB 30
Getting there: Buses 6, 20, 39, Subway Chongwen Men or Qian Men

6. Summer Palace
Located in the north west corner of Beijing next to the university, this was once a place of rest and relaxation for the emperor but now it is used as a public park.

Pride of place is the huge lake and a promenade encircling it. There are towers, halls and temples that climb the hillside if you do to you will get a fabulous view over the lake and its environs. You can rent an electric powered boat or join a group on teh dragon boat. Boat rides stop at 4.30pm.

Entry: RNB 50 April-October, RNB 40 Novenber to March. Audio guides are available for RNB 30
Open: 8.30am-8pm April to October, 7am-7pm November to March. Last admission 2 hours before closing.
Getting there: From Beijing centre a taxi will take 50 minute. Subway Xizhi Men then bus number 32 or 808 from the zoo.

7. Underground City
This is an underground bomb shelter just beneath the city. It was built more than 20 years ago and opened to the public in 2000. It was built as a result of the Sino-Soviet border conflict in 1969 over Zhenbao Island in northeast China's Heilongijang River. This was bult in case of nuclear attack. It took 300,000 locals four years to complete the underground city and it spanned 85 square kilometres 8 metres below the surface. There were hundreds of entrances via trap doors to the shelter and most of these are hidden by shops and houses.

It was designed to house 40% of the capital's population who would have access to shops, restaurants, clinics, schools, theatres, reading rooms and even hairdressers. A mushroom cultivation farm was also installed to grow foods that require little light.

Address: There 62 West Damochang Street, Qianmen, tel. 6702-2657.

8. Wangfuijing Dajie (Street)
This street is the traditional centre of Beijing that has been renovated into a pedestrian-only zone in 2000 and this is where you should go to for some retail therapy. The street is not for the faint hearted - it is very long and if you were to walk the length of it without stopping to window shop, it would take around half an hour. There are two shopping malls, one of which, the Oriental Plaza, sprawls over two blocks to the east, potentially adding another 15 minutes.

Shops include food stalls, department stores, Chinese art, silk, tea and souvenir shops. Don't forget to pop into the chopstick shops. At night all the neons light up the streets and some shops stay open to 9pm. The highlight is the night market offering a range of open-air food stalls.

To the north is city's most important church, the triple-domed, Baroque style St Joseph's Church. It is also known as the East Cathedral. First built in 1655 t was renovated a few times after a fire, an earthquake and destruction during the Boxing Rebellion. It's recent renovation cost over US$2million. It is approached by a gateway and piazza and beautifully lit up at night.

Getting there: Subway Wangfujing
Open: Night market 5.30pm-10pm
Address St Joseph's Church: 74 Wangfujing Dajie
Getting there: Sumbway Dengshikou

9. CCTV Tower
If you have had your fill of ancient history, this modern tower may fit the bill. It is home to TV and radio stations and if you go up you'll get a great view over western Beijing. Later you can dine at its revolving restaurant.

Getting there: The tower is in the western suburbs of Beijing and can be reached by subway by getting off at the Gong Zhu Fen (110) Line 1 station and walking north 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively you can get a taxi.

10. Beijing Zoo
Situated in the Xicheng District, Beijing Zoo is the largest in China. This is a fully fledged zoo with more than 3,500 species from around the world. But its unique feature is its giant pandas.

Address: 131 Xi Zhi Men Wai Avenue, Xi cheng District, Beijing, 100044, Tel: +86 10 6831 4411
Open: 7.30am to 6pm
Getting there: The Beijing Zoo is located in the north west of Beijing not too far from the center. Taxi is your best bet for getting there, but you do have the option of taking the subway to Xi Zhi Men station (201) on Line 2 followed by walking 15 to 20 mins or taking a short bus ride.

Barcelona Top Ten

Flying to Barcelona? Check out our must-sees.

If ever there was a city that could put a smile on a city-jetter's face, Barcelona has to be it. Anyone that has seen its magnificent beach, open parklands, amazing sculptures on street corners and spectacular Gaudi architecture would be hard pushed to imagine the city as it once was before the 1992 olympics - a wasteland with high rises and derelict blocks. You don't need to spend your time at museums in Barcelona, because the city itself, beautfully designed, very colourful and even eccentric, is the main attraction.

And then there's the shopping - Barcelona has its share of malls and chains, but it also offers a lovely mix of small speciality stores - especially in the Old City. Groovy boutiques - whether fashion or jewellry - keep on sprouting up no doubt fuelled by the constant stream of talent from the city's fashion schools. The markets are a must visit as they offer a colourful flavour of local life. Here are the areas we suggest you visit:

1. LA RAMBLAS in the BARRI GOTIC district
Bang in the centre of Barcelona is is the Barri Gòtic (Gothic quarter), Europe's largest medieval area. The area dates back to Roman times and the remains of the squared Roman Wall can be seen. The labyrinthine streets often open out onto squares and they are packed with tiny eateries and interesting bars. The area is home to Barcelona's most famous street, La Ramblas.

Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca once said that La Rambla was "the only street in the world which I wish would never end". Everyone should start their break along the tile covered La Rambla, Barcelona's most famous walkway. This former riverbed, cuts through the Old City offering a tree-lined boulevard made up of a series of shorter streets (Rambla de Canaletes, the Rambla dels Estudis, the Rambla de Sant Josep, the Rambla dels Caputxins, and the Rambla de Santa Monica)which is why you will hear it referred to as Las Ramblas.

Walking along La Ramblas is a great way to get an orientation of the city and along the way pop into small shops, enjoy the cafe culture, enjoy the street performers and the various stalls selling small animals and flowers.

2. SAGRADA FAMILIA
This monumental church El Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família (Expiatory Temple of the Sacred Family) is Gaudi's most exemplary work and the most famous. It is as symbolic of Barcelona as the Eifel tower is to Paris. Gaudi started work on it in 1883 after replacing another architect and dedicated his life to it to the point of actually taking up residence on-site. He was obsessed with this project planning three exquisitly ornate facades devoted to the Nativitiy, Passion and Glory. Each was to be crowned by four towers. When asked why he fussed so much about the tower tops Gaudi replied "the angels will see them". Sadley he never lived to finish it. On June 7 1926 Gaudi was crossing the Fran Via and was run over by a car. He died three days later at the age of 74. The church is still being constructed and the finished part is open to visitors. Visitors can climb the towers and offer amazing panoramic views over Barcelona.

Address: Calle Mallorca, Tel: 00 34 932 07 30 31
Entry: 10 euros or 9 euros with Barcelona Card.
Open: Daly 9am to 6pm
Metro: Sagrada Familia (Blue Line L5 and Purple Line L2)

3. PARK GUELL
Park Guell was supposed to be a surban city but it failed. The Barcelona City Council bought the property in 1922 and converted it to a municipal park. It was Gaudi who had the responsibility of designing the park and he chose to develop it as a network of twisty roads following the contours of the rocky hill on which it was to be developed. The entire park gives of an ambience of Disneyesque proprtions with its mosaics, bird nests in the terrace walls, roadways that resemble pine trees and colonnades. At the entrance Gaudi's municipal mosaic dragaon fountain sets the scene for the fantastically shaped roofs and pinnacles that lie ahead. The main entrance is surrounded by a very long beach shaped into a sea serpent with intimate enclaves every so often. As a bonus you get great views over Barcelona from the top.

Address: Carrer D'Olot in Eixample
Open: daily from 10am to 6pm and to 9pm in the summer
Transport: Bus 24, 25, 31 or 74. Metro: Lesseps. From the metro follow the street signpost for the park
Entry: free. However entrace to Gaudi's house 'la Torre Rosa' which contains furniture he designed does have an entry fee.

4. BARCELONA FC MUSEUM
Footie fans must come here. It is wall to wall photographs, memorabilia, statues and trophies. Buy a dual ticket and you get to do the Camp Nou Tour and see the museum, Barça stadium, the changing rooms and VIP lounge as well as other behind-the-scenes areas.

Address: Avinguda Joan XXIII s/n 08028, Tel:+34 93 496 36 00
Open: Monday to Saturday, (from 14 April to 12 October) 10:00 to 20:00 - Camp Nou Tour until one hour before the Museum closes. Other times Museum opening hours are from 10:00 to 18:30.
Sundays and public holidays, from 10:00 to 14:30 - Camp Nou Tour until one hour before the Museum closes.
On days of League and Champions league matches in the stadium, from 10:00 to 15:00 - Camp Nou Tour not available
Closed: January 1 and 6 and December 25
Entry: Adult 8,50 euros, Kids 6,80 euros Museum only / Adults 13 euros, Kids 10,40 euros Camp Nou Tour and Museum
Metro: Collblanc (Blue Line, L5)

5. THE SEA FRONT
Barcelona's seaside comprises several beaches and an attractive palm-lined seafront promenade all borne about thanks to the 1992 Olympics and the cash it brought in. At Moll d'Espanya at Port Vell (old port) there is an Imax, the biggest Aquarium in Europe and the Maremagnum that houses a shopping centre, restaurants, terraces and night life. Further along in the former fisherman's district of Barceloneta where quaint narrow streets harbour some lovely seafood restaurants.

Address: Moll d'Espanya, Port Vell Tel: +34 93 221 7474
Metro: Drassanes (Green Line, L3)

6. THE PICASSO MUSEUM
A young Picasso spent 5 years in Barcelona from 1901 to 1906 and if you want to understand him you must include a visit to the Picasso Museum. The building was once two 16th century palaces that have been turned into one structure. The walls display work of arts that show off the genius of Picasso in his formative years. There are more than 3,500 works on display permanently and include childhood portraits, paintings and artworks from his Blue and Rose periods.

Address: Montcado Street, 15-23 Tel: 00 34 932 563 000
The Picasso Museum website
Transport: Metro Jaume (Yellow Line L4)
Open: Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm. Closed Mondays.
Entry: 9 euros.

7. LA PEDRERA - CASA MILA
La Pedrera (a Catalan word meaning 'quarry) is a masterpiece of architecture by the master architect Antonio Gaudi looks fabulous with its wavy brick work that look like cliff walls. Made from limestone the building undulates with curves and concaves with dark iron balconies contrasting beautifully on the pale stone. The roof is spectacular and its chimneys have been dubbed the "witch scarers" and the roof as goey cake.

The building was once the home of Pere Milà and his wife, Casa Milà but today it is used as a cultural centre for temporary exhibitions.

Address: Corner of Passeig de Gràcia 92/ Carrer de Provença 261-265 L'Eixample District Tel: 00 34 93 484 55 30
La Pedrera website
Open: November to February 9am to 6.30pm, March to October 9am to 8pm
Metro: Diagonal (Green Line L3 and Blune Line, L5(

8. POBLE ESPANYOL DE MONTJUIC - Spanish Village
This open air museum, located on the Montjuic mountain, shows off all the architectural styles of Spain in one place. It is in effect a quaint town with craft stores, regional restaurants.

Address: Avda Marques de Camillas Tel: 00 34 93 325 78 66
Spanish Village website
Open: Monday 9am to 8pm, Tuesday to Thursday 9am to 2pm, Friday 9am to 4pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 9am to midnight,
Entry: Adults 8 euros, kids free
Metro: Espanya (Green Line, L3 and Red Line, L1). 15 minute walk.

9. THE MAGIC FOUNTAIN OF MONTJUIC
This beautiful fountain was designed by Carles Buigas and created by 3000 workers for the Great Univeral Exhibition on 19 May 1929. It offers a spectacular disply of colour, light and water motion and acrobatics set to music.

Address: Pl. Carles Buígas, 1 (at the end of Avda. Maria-Cristina, next to Plaça Espanya)
Performance times
Winter (October to April) Fridays and Saturdays 7am to 9pm.
Music sessions 7pm, 7.30pm, 8pm and 8,30pm Summer (May to September). Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8pm to 11.30pm.
Entry: Free
Metro: Placa Espanys (Green Line, L3 and Red LIne , L1)

10. LE RIBERA
This area, part of the old city of Barcelona, is regarded as Barcelona's most fashionable district. Passeig del Born, nicknamed El Born, is full of trendy bars, shops and restaurants.

Athens Top Ten

Any visitor to Athens must be struck by the surreal feel of modern life built up around ancient temples and monuments. Taking a taxi from the old to the new town, its easy to miss the ancient Temple of Zeus, the father of all gods, as you whizz by. Sit down for a coffee and as you sip your coffee you not only get to enjoy the buzzing alfresco cafe culture, but may also get to feast your eyes on the amazing Acropolis high above you.

In the mix are Byzantine, medieval and 19th century monuments and some of the most highly regarded museums in the world. And to top it all off, getting around is both easy and enjoyable. The metro is easy to use and pristinely clean with stations that look like mini aiports. What's more, for those with a moment to stop and stare, the metro stations are homes to ancient relics found on site and preserved as museum pieces for all to enjoy.

The best time to go is late May and June when temperatures are pleasant and when the Athens Epidaurus Festival begins (www.greekfestival.gr) and runs throughout summer.

1. The Acropolis and the Parthenon
The Acropolis is the sacred hill that overlooks the city of Athens. It is the highest part of the city and once used for silent sanctuary and religion since Neolithic times. On its top are three 5th century temples, the most impressive being Parthenon - a temple that is considered the finest example of Doric-style architecture. It is the epitome of ancient classical Greek art and dedicated to the "Virgin" goddess Athena. It was built during the period of 447 BCE and continued to 438 BCE by the Greek politician, Pericles, who has the accolade of founding the city of Athens and being the architect of the "Golden Age of Greece". Amongst the many treasures displayed in the Parthenon, was a giant ivory and gold sculpture of Athena.

The Parthenon was used by different peoples for different activities. By the 5th century the Parthenon was used as a church, and during the Ottoman occupation it used as a mosque and during the Erechthheion as a harem.

The Parthenon is in ruins now and its downfall started with the Ottomans. They kep kept gunpowder in the temple which was disastrous when the Venetians shelled it during the siege of 1687. Later in 1899 Lord Elgin removed sculptures (the Elgin marbles) and brougt them to the UK where they have remained.

Address: Acropolis Hill, Plaka, Tel: 00 30 210 321 4172
Entry to Parthenon: 12 euros (£10, free on Sundays)
Open: 8am-7pm daily (summer) 8.30am-5pm daily (winter)

Note: When you buy your ticket for entry to the Parthenon, this ticket will also get you into the other main archaeological sites, including the Olympeion, the Theatre of Dionysos, the Agora, and the Roman Forum.

2. The Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrians Arch
Bang in the middle of Athens is the ruins of the ancient temple of Zeus the father of all Greek god. He was revered in this 6th century BC temple that was so big it once comprised 104 that took 700 years to complete but today, 2600 years later, just 15 remain.

The awesome temple was built by the tyranical Pisistratus in 510BC but work was abandoned when Pisistratus' son, Hippias, was overthrown in 510BC. Later in the 3rd century BC when Green during Macedonia domination of Greece. Hellenistic king Antiochus IV of Syria hired Roman architect Cossutius to design the largest temple ever. When the king dies in 164BC work was stopped. Roman Emperor Hadrian, a great admirer of Greek culture took up the mantle in the 2nd century AD and it finally completed in 129.

In 1852 one of the last remaining columns was blown down by a storm and its still lying there.

At the entrace of the site is Hadrian's Arch. This was erected in 131 AD as part of the wall that separated the old and new cities of Athens.

Address: Amalias Avenue
Entry: 12 euros
Open: 800am-7.30pm daily

3. Take a walk around Plaka
Stone-paved Plaka is probably the most picturesque and certainly the most historical neighbourhood of Athens, nestling between the Acropolis above it and Monastiraki further downhill.

Once an area of noisy bars and night club, Plaka was forced to clean up its act by the Athens most famous Culture MInister Melina Mercury who lovingly restored the area to is current glory. Today Plaka has the feel of a small Greek village surrounded by a modern Athens centre.

The are two main streets: Kydatheneon which is easy to walk to from Constitution Square (the main square) and the other, the oldest, Adrianou begins at the Monastiraki flea market. From these, a mele of quaint narrow streets fan out hosting pretty houses with quaint gardens and tidy forecourts.

Restaurants, jewellery shops and a motley mix of touristy souvenir shops lace the maze of pedestrianised streets of the ancient Plaka area. True, most of the shops sell much of the same art and crafts but there are some great finds that make the walk along the quaint streets all the more interesting. For instance antiques shops and a couple of eccentric shops such as the colourful ouzo shop called Angelo that claims to have more varieties of this pungent tipple than anywhere else in Athens and a punk fashion store that according to its diary and various photographs, enjoys famous clientelle such as Madonna.

Tucked away are some really interesting museums too such as the Children and the Music Museum along with Greek Forlk Art Museum and the Jewish Museum.

Plaka also has its fair share of architectural gems such as the Roman bath of the winds, the Lysicrates monument and next door the Capuchin Monastery where Lord Byron stayed. Most appealling are the surrounding eateries, tavernas and trendy bars.

4. Kolonaki District - Chic and Trendy
Kolonaki, near Plateia Syntagma, is probably the trendiest, most chick neighbourhood in Athens. Greek stars are often seen strutting their stuff here and when it comes to trendy, stylish clothes shopping, Kolonaki is where its at. Cafes and restaurants are always busy with people weighed down with shopping bags and in the evening, stylish restaurants and trendy bars are buzzing with Athens trendiest people.

5. Parliament Building, The Evzones and the Changing of the Guard
Standing elegantly on Plateia Syntagma (aka Constitution Square) is the neo-Classical Parliament building. It was built in 1842 for Otto who was the first King of Greece after independence. It fell into disrepair and in 1923 was used as shelter for the homeless.

The Parliamentary government resumed in 1926 and the building was renovated and brought back to grandeur. This is where issues of the day are debated and it is televised.

Standing guard are the evzones. These are soldiers dressed in traditional gear that the soldiers wore when rebels won the War of Independence. This comprises a red hat, a pleated skirt with 400 pleats, one for each year under Turkish rule, white tights and shoes with red pom poms. It's hard to imagine them in combat dressed like that. The changing of the guard happens every hour and is entertaining to watch. They don't walk or march, the kick the legs high as if in dance. Apparently the guards are chosen from the compulory Greek military, and they are the tallest and most handsome the army has to offer.

The National Gardens alongside the Parliament where once only royalty were allowed to venture, are now open to the public. A stroll through its well tended paths, orange trees and flowers bends is very calming. You will pass the 19th century Zappeion Hall that serves as an exhibition centre.

6. Syntagma Metro Station
Athens Metro system is extremely efficient but more than that, most stations are mini museum housing antiquities that were found on the site where the station was built. The most outstanding is Syntagma Metro Station built when Athens was hosting the Olympics. When the city was excavating in preparation of the metro system archeologists founds thousands of pricelss items on the site. Many are displayed in the station but the most magnificent is a glass wall overlooking the site. It includes two cemetries and there is a commentary that describes the different layers.

Address: Constitution Square

7. Lycabettus Hill (Lykavittos in Greek)
This cone-shaped limestone rock offers a lovely way to spend a morning or afternoon. It stretches up from a bed of green pine trees settling into a streaky vision of white and green. At 910 ft tall this is the highest hill in Athens. You can climb it following any one of several paths or if you prefer take the cable car to the top. It leaves every 30 minutes and takes just a couple of minutes to the top. At the top there's a restaurant and a pristinely white 19th century Chapel of St. George. In the summer it also stages open-air theatre and other culural events. Spend some time here and enjoy the dazzling views over Athens that take in the Parthenon on top of the Acropolis.

Address: Odos Ploutarchou
Directions: Start from Kolonaki and walk towards Exarchia and the Archaeological museum
Closest Metro: Evangelismos
Return ticket: 4,50 euros (£4.50)
Cable car: Runs 9am-3am every day

8. The National Archaeological Museum
This national treasure is home to a whole host of ancient treasures devoted to Greek civilisations including those from the royal graves at Mycenai. Some pieces are over 30 centuries old yet you can still pick out the detailed engravings on carved ivory and jewellery.

Address: 44 Patission Street (Tel: 00 30 210 821 7717)
Entry: 7 euros (£6)
Open: 8.30am-3pm Tuesday-Sunday, 1.30pm-7pm on Mondays.

9. Ancient Agora
This may look like a wilderness of wild land and olive trees where fallen columns lay where they fell many years ago, but actually, in ancient times, this was the city's main marketplace and seat of the Athenian goverment. It was here that Socrates and St Paul made their public speeches and where Plato spent much of his time. The law courts were here and anyone who happened to be in Agora when a case was being heard would be called up to serve as juror.

Today there are three standing structures: The 11th century Church of the Holy Apostles which was deconsecrated a mere 50 years ago; the Temple of Hephaistos, where the frieze is a must-see; and the Stoa of Attalos which had been rebuilt in the 1950s to house the Agora Museum. This is located near the entrance and worth visiting for the ancient finds.

Address: Adranou 24, Monastiraki, Tel 00 30 210 321 0185
Open: Daily 8am-7pm summer, 8am-3pm winter.
Entry: 4 euros (£3)

10. Benaki Museum
This impressive museum was founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis in memory of his father Emmanuel Benakis at the Benakis family's gorgeous neo-classical mansion. This museum traces Greek art right up the 20th century. Sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, paintings, furniture and costumes are on display, but top pieces include the 2nd century BC Thessaly Treasure (a horde of gold filigree jewellery set with precious stones), two early paintings by El Greco, and the reconstruction of two 18th century, wooden-panelled, Ottoman-inspired living rooms. Later, enjoy some refreshement at the museum's lovely roof terrace café,

Address: Vassilissis Sofias & Koumbari 1, Kolonaki Tel: 00 30 210 367 1000
Web: www.benaki.gr
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 9am-5pm; Thursday 9am-midnight; Sun 9am-3pm.
Entry: 6 euros (£4.30), free Thursdays.