Your experience
A historical extravaganza
With a skip-the-line ticket, you get to fast-track your way into the heart of Romania's past, guided by an expert guide.
Immerse yourself in a story of power and grandeur that began in the era of Communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. From the moment you step into the colossal ground floor, prepare to be amazed by the architectural brilliance and extravagant interiors, featuring 500 chandeliers, 1400 ceiling lights and mirrors, and millions of cubic feet of marble and wood. Notable spaces include the stunning Romanian Renaissance-style halls, with walls lined with luxurious carpets, tapestries, and paintings that showcase Romania's cultural heritage. The grandiose Hall of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies are among the most impressive, with their expansive size, massive columns, and elegant furnishings. Other rooms are decorated in neoclassical style, with impressive sculptures, large crystal chandeliers, and rich textiles.
Learn about the Palace's eight mystifying underground levels, complete with a nuclear bunker and a network of catacombs.
Ticket options
Enhance your experience with guided tour options. Choose from an English, Italian or Spanish-speaking guide who will provide insightful narratives, enriching your exploration of this magnificent edifice.
Your Experience
Join an expert guide with a small group of not more than 10 other guests to discover the 2nd floor and summit of this iconic landmark.
Learn More About the ‘Iron Lady’ & the City of Lights
At over 370 feet high, the 2nd floor is the perfect in-between viewpoint. As you enjoy expansive views across the city, watch out for the most famous sites and monuments. Ask your guide why the tower is nicknamed the 'Iron Lady' and get to know more trivia from the exhibits and maps on display. Keep your camera ready as you spot the gothic Notre Dame, the Louvre Museum, Grand Palais, the River Seine, and more.
Get a Chance to Visit the Summit
You’ll be whisked over 900 feet up to the summit in a glass-walled elevator – you won’t miss a second of the stunning views. Admire the panorama of Paris below from a different perspective and stay on after your tour is done. Visit a historical reconstruction of the former office of engineer Gustave Eiffel, who created the tower. The office is complete with original furniture and lifelike wax sculptures.
Your experience
A picturesque historical French dream
Drive past vast expanses of the French countryside on your way to the grand Château of Chantilly. Start by exploring the sprawling gardens and the estate with your audio guide. Learn about the castle’s historical significance, to the romantic English garden with the statue of Venus, or tour the rustic houses at the Anglo-Chinese garden. Once indoors, marvel at the art collection housing masterpieces by Raphael and Ingres at the Musée Condé – a haven for over 800 paintings. Your ticket is valid for 2 days so you can enjoy and explore the gardens and all of the 8 stunning art galleries at the Chateau at your own pace!
Activities galore at the Chateau!
The Grand Stables of the Prince of Conde is truly a sight to behold at the Horse Museum. The museum also houses a brilliant collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art based on horses. You will have the pleasure of viewing some of the most well maintained and expensive racehorses in France. Enjoy entertaining shows such as ‘Alice and the Enchanted Carousel’ and ‘A Day in Paris’ - a perfect mix of fantasy, acting, and humor! Fancy a culinary experience? Take the cream whipping workshop at the Chateau and learn how to successfully whip the authentic Chantilly whipped cream by hand! End your tour with a visit to the lush gardens of the Château and take part in one of the many fun activities such as Segway® rides or cycling.
Your Experience
With the splendid baroque Cathedral constructed with outstanding intricacy to the Royal Museum and the mausoleum of the catholic monarchs, the city of Granada awaits you to explore the earliest of Renaissance architecture.
The Opulent Granada Cathedral
Commissioned by Queen Isabella I, the Granada Cathedral was given a Renaissance appearance by Diego de Siloé, who built upon the Gothic foundations of the building. The striking exterior and baroque interiors of the first renaissance church of Spain will leave you gaping in amazement. Tour the surrounding areas of the Cathedral and find yourself along the quaint street of Oficios. The charming street is a historical pathway leading to some of the most significant places in Granada. Lose yourself in the maze-like alleys of Alcaicería, an Arabic-style bazaar or souk, where you can shop for souvenirs and knick-knacks to commemorate your trip.
The Royal Chapel and the Mausoleum of the Monarchs
Witness the majesty of the Royal Chapel and visit the place of rest of several Catholic and Spanish monarchs. The tombs are a work of art in their own right, made by artists like Domenico Fancelli, who built the tombs of Isabella and Ferdinand. The Royal Chapel Museum is a testament to the legacy of the catholic monarchy and has artifacts such as the crown and books belonging to the royals. Artwork by artists such as Dirk Bouts, Rogier van der Weyden, and Perugino will give you an overview of the majestic monarchs.
Your Experience
Unearthing Granada's Rich History
Embark on an enchanting journey through Granada's illustrious past, starting at the iconic Plaza Bib-Rambla. As your professional guide ushers you toward the Royal Chapel, you'll be captivated by tales of Ferdinand and Isabella, the Catholic monarchs. The marble mausoleums hidden within are a testament to the grandeur of the chapel. Following this royal encounter, prepare to weave through the labyrinthine Alcaiceria, Granada’s historic silk market. Feel the echoes of the Arab merchants who once bartered here.
Time Travel to the Cathedral of Granada
The crescendo of your tour is the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Granada. Intriguingly asymmetrical, this architectural marvel mirrors the transformation from Gothic foundations to Renaissance grandeur. 24 stained glass windows showcasing Redemption, the massive Corinthian pillars, and towering arches are just some of the opulent features of this cathedral. Choose between the Spanish or English tour option as per your preference to learn more about the places brimming with stories waiting to be discovered.
Itinerary
10:30am: Meet in Plaza Bib Rambla
10:45am: Visit the Royal Chapel
11:50am: Walk around the Arabic souk of Granada, Alcaiceria
12pm: Visit the Cathedral of Granada
Your Experience
Plunge Into the Political History of Venice at the Doge's Palace
With this tour, you will get to visit two of the most emblematic attractions of Venice; St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace with priority access and a tour guide. The Doge's Palace is located in St Mark's Square and is one of the most fascinating and culturally rich monuments in Venice. Having been the seat of political and administrative power of the Venice Republic from its birth to its end, the Palazzo Ducale is a statement to the splendor of Venice. While you are here, devout all your attention to your guide as the halls and corridors of this building carry stories that will enthrall you no bound.
Explore the Opulent St. Mark's Basilica
After the palace, walk into Venice’s most majestic cathedral; St Mark’s Basilica. Lay your eyes on masterpieces of Byzantine art, colorful marble installations and shimmering gold mosaic art. Squinting your eyes when you enter the Basilica is only natural, thanks to the shimmering mosaics made with 24-carat gold leaves fused onto the back of the glass to exhibit divine light. Your tour guide is likely to conduct a session wherein you sit comfortably in a certain part of the church and he explains the biblical importance and peculiarities of this ancient basilica. Watch out for tales you may never have heard of before!
Mon-Sat:
Your guided tour includes a visit to the Terrace with copies of the famous horses and to St. Mark's Museum, where objects from the Basilica (including the quadriga of St. Mark's) will come into the picture. The tour starts from the ground floor to see the gold mosaics (the Basilica has 43,000 square feet of mosaic alone!), in a second time the visit continues on the first floor.
Sun:
On feast days and unplanned religious celebrations, the tour foresees the visit with direct access to the Terrace and to St. Mark's Museum situated on the first floor. Due to the Holy Mass taking place on the ground floor, it is possible to admire the mosaics partially from the first floor.
Your Experience
Unlock Florence's Masterpieces
Embark on a captivating journey through Florence's rich art and architecture, escaping the usual long lines with the exclusive tour of the Accademia Gallery and the Duomo. Begin your day with an intimate group of 18 or fewer fellow travelers and an English-speaking local guide.
Skip-the-Line Tour of David & Duomo
Avoid the queue at the Accademia Gallery and witness Michelangelo's David in the tranquil morning hours, gaining unique insights into the mind of the master sculptor. Marvel at the renowned "Gates of Paradise" at Piazza del Duomo before stepping into the extraordinary Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Your special skip-the-line entrance allows you to explore the cathedral's secrets and ascend to its terraces, which are not accessible to the general public for breathtaking panoramas.
Continue your day tour to climb to the top of the Dome, starting from an elevated level that grants you quick access. Experience the city from a unique perspective, basking in scenic cityscapes.
Please note that the afternoon tour does not visit the cathedral, the itinerary may vary.
Your Experience
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Albaicin is considered to be the most charismatic district of Granada. Follow your guide and explore the remains of the glorious dynasties that ruled the last Muslim kingdom of the Iberian Peninsula. To start off, you will walk from the city center, past the whitewashed houses of the Moorish neighborhood. Go back in time as you see the flowered balconies and take in the aroma of the jasmine flowers. Get a feel of Andalucian culture as you explore the marketplace of Plaza Larga and the picturesque streets of Paseo de los Tristes.
Continue on to Sacromonte, the flamenco quarter of Granada. Learn about the fascinating history of its people, who fought alongside the Catholic monarch's troops and settled in caves dug into the mountains here after the town was re-conquered in the 15th century.
Your experience
Go on a guided tour to explore the Spanish royal palace, the location for many episodes of the hit HBO TV Series, “Game of Thrones”.
Best of Mudejar
Skip the lines and gain entry to the Alcázar of Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with this guided tour through its interior. When entering the palace through the Lion’s Gate don't miss the Gothic tile depicting a crowned lion with a cross in hand. Your guide will narrate to your the complex yet fascinating history of the palace and how it changed hands from the Nasrids to the Christians. The fun little tidbits and anecdotes will make you appreciate the blend of culture further more, as if the lobed arches, vivid tiles, balconies, and stucco work weren't enough to sway your vote!
Of maidens & ambassadors
Walk through the Courtyard of Maidens, which was temporarily paved with white marble at the request of director Ridley Scott, for the movie the “Kingdom of Heaven”. Follow it up with a visit to the “Hall of Ambassadors”, the throne room of King Peter of Castille where your guide will fill you up with stories of decisions taken under it's impressive dome.
Historical artworks & gardens
The Alcázar of Seville also houses a unique collection of artworks depicting the Spanish conquest of the South American continent. Follow your guide to spot masterpieces like “The Virgin of the Navigators” and “Azulejo” and learn all about the artist. After that, make your way to the lush green gardens and bask in its splendor. This tour through the Alcázar is sure to leave you coming back for more!
Your experience
Finest Mudejar palace
Enter through the Lion's Gate and take a tour of the Alcázar of Seville, Europe's oldest royal palace that houses several centenary gardens. It is better known in recent times for being one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones! The next time you rewatch the scenes with the Water Gardens of Dorne, keep an eye out for the intricate tiles or the beautiful hedgerows that line the gardens. Walk into the Ambassador's Hall and Hall of Justice to observe the whimsical chemistry of Christian and Islamic architecture. The Alcázar of Seville brings together the best of both cultures and so much more.
Courtyards, gardens, & more
Wander through the lovely The Courtyard of the Maidens where beautifully tiled sockets and the delicate marble inlay await to dazzle you. Also, check out the Courtyard of the Dolls where the royal princes and princesses used to play. Don't miss Francisco Pisano’s admirable altar of tiles and the balconies that bring a little element of Renaissance to the palace.
This ticket also grants you access to an excavation site right below the palace. The Antiquarium is a unique museum that gives you a real glimpse into the everyday life of ancient Seville, decades before the Moors built the original fort that was later transformed into the Alcázar of Seville we see today. Later, visit the Triana Ceramics Museum and admire the traditional pottery methods of crafting iconic painted ceramic tiles.
With a simple upgrade, you can go on a guided tour of the Alcázar of Seville with an English-speaking expert. If you have more time on your hands, add a guided tour of the Seville Cathedral with access to the La Giralda to your cart!
Your Experience
Get started on this tour with the help of a bilingual (English and Spanish) guide, who will help you explore 3 historic monuments of Seville; Alcazar, Seville Cathedral, and La Giralda.
Bask in the magnificence of the Alcazar
Visit the Alcazar, a palace which was once home to the Spanish ruler Alfonso X of Castille and his son, Peter of Castille. Enter through the Lion's Gate and make your way to its lush green gardens. Pass by iconic places such as the Courtyard of Maidens and the Hall of Ambassadors. Marvel at the historical artworks including “The Virgin of the Navigators” and “Azulejo” that are kept on display inside the palace.
The Gothic Church and the Bell Tower
Explore the Seville Cathedral, a 16th-century Gothic church and the burial site for Peter of Castille. Marvel at the Gothic architecture of the church, which has a touch of Renaissance immersed in it. However, more than the architecture it is the La Giralda that brings tourists to this church. Nestled inside the Cathedral, the bell tower La Giralda was during the Christian rule and has been an integral part of the Cathedral ever since.
Your experience
Explore Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces, a journey through time
Begin your journey back in time with this guided tour in Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces. Remember to get your general tickets in advance, and then prepare to be whisked away into a world of stories, architecture, and art. Your official guide, a true historian at heart, will lead you through the tranquil Generalife Gardens, revealing interesting tidbits along the way. Enjoy priority access for groups and an audio system for groups of 7 or more that allows everyone to clearly hear the guide's narration.
Unveiling Nasrid Palaces and Palace of Charles V in Alhambra
Venture next into the Nasrid Palaces, a celebration of Islamic art, brought alive by vibrant tiles, intricate plasterwork, and the tales of the Nasrid Dynasty. Pause at the Palace of Charles V, nestled in the heart of Granada's Alhambra, showcases Renaissance architecture commissioned by Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in the 16th century. Its circular courtyard features a central fountain, encircled by a square building with two floors. The second floor serves as a venue for concerts and cultural events, offering a striking contrast to Alhambra's Moorish design and drawing tourists from around the world.
Panoramic views and impressive architecture
Scale the heights of the Alcazaba Fortress for a panoramic view of Granada and its surroundings. The tour concludes with a comprehensive exploration of Spain's most significant historical site, where you’ll discover how each architectural detail tells a story of the past.
Your experience
Enjoy Seamless Access to the Alhambra in a Group of Ten or Less and the Services of an Expert by Your Side
After assembling at the meeting point, your professional guide shall lead you past the winding queues and on to an adventure of a lifetime! Walk through the passages and admire the different styles of architecture that were used as the Palace expanded. Your guide will regale you with tales about the Palace's history and provenance as you make your way through. Marvel at the Gate of the Pomegranates and gaze at the Washington Irving Monument, an odd sight until you'll learn that he was the first Hispanist, inspiring the travels of many 19th century Americans when he wrote Tales of the Alhambra while living in the Palace. You will also get to visit the Palace of Charles V, built by the Holy Roman Emperor in Alhambra for the poignant significance of being a Muslim fortress that was conquered by his own Christian grandparents. The many pillared palace is a sight to behold, regardless of its origins. Don't forget to visit the unique Court of the Lions, a well-known highlight of the Nasrid Palace.
Take a Stroll in the Impeccably Manicured Generalife Gardens
The Generalife is also known as the Architect's Garden, is easily one of the oldest examples of Moorish gardens. In fact, the entire estate is a series of gardens and fountains with exceptional Islamic motifs and architecture tying it all together. Cool turquoise water, flower beds, and lush greenery make the Generalife a beautiful sight. You will also get to spend some time in the Dehesa of Generalife, a vast green expanse offering incredible scenic views of the surroundings.
Your experience
Explore Alhambra with a guide
Gain entry to the Alhambra, a National and Artistic Monument of Spain, on this guided tour. Walk through the passages and admire the different styles of architecture that were used as the Palace expanded. Whether you choose a regular day time tour or a unique nighttime tour, get the complete picture of the complex.
Choose a skilled guide fluent in English, French, German, Italian, or Spanish, offering insights into the palace's history, complemented by clear audio headsets.
Visit other wonders of Alhambra
This ticket grants access to several other attractions within the Alhambra complex. Explore the Palace of Charles V, an architectural marvel blending Plateresque, Gothic, and Spanish styles, renowned for its unique collection of Hispano-Muslim and Nasrid artworks. Discover the Generalife, known as the Architect's Garden, one of the oldest Moorish gardens featuring cool turquoise water, flower beds, and lush greenery. Don't miss the Alcazaba, one of the oldest structures in the Alhambra, serving as both a fortress and a watchtower during the Nasrid rule.
Nasrid Palace and Medina
While many structures within the Nasrid Palaces have succumbed to time, some endure, including the Mexuar, once a prominent part of the palace, and the Court of Lions (Palacio de Los Leones), along with more private areas.
After exploring the Nasrid Palaces, accompany your guide to the Medina, a citadel featuring remnants of ovens, silos, cisterns, public baths, workshops, and residences of government officials, employees, and court servants, accessible via a challenging route.
Your experience
Seamless access to the Alhambra and the services of an expert by your side
After assembling at the meeting point, your professional guide will lead you past the winding queues. Whether you choose to go on a shared tour, or prefer the exclusivity of a private tour, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Walk through the passages and admire the different styles of architecture that were used as the Palace expanded. Your guide will regale you with tales about the Palace's history and provenance as you make your way through. Marvel at the Gate of the Pomegranates and gaze at the Washington Irving Monument, an odd sight until you'll learn that he was the first Hispanist, inspiring the travels of many 19th-century Americans when he wrote Tales of the Alhambra while living in the Palace.
Take a stroll in the impeccably manicured Generalife Gardens
The Generalife is also known as the Architect's Garden, is one of the oldest examples of Moorish gardens. In fact, the entire estate is a series of gardens and fountains with exceptional Islamic motifs and architecture tying it all together. Cool turquoise water, flower beds, and lush greenery make the Generalife a beautiful sight. You will also get to spend some time in the Dehesa of Generalife, a vast green expanse offering incredible scenic views of the surroundings.
The noble living quarters of the Nasrid Palaces
Located in the heart of the Alhambra are the Nasrid Palaces, residence of former sultans and kings. You will also get to visit the Palace of Charles V, built by the Holy Roman Emperor in Alhambra for the poignant significance of being a Muslim fortress that was conquered by his own Christian grandparents. Don't forget to visit the unique Court of the Lions, a well-known highlight of the Nasrid Palaces.
Your experience
Visit the Alhambra, once the Palatial City and Royal Christian House, and now a National Monument of Spain
Gain fast-track entry to the Alhambra Complex, a National and Artistic Monument of Spain. A fortress that has evolved and grown into a palace, having changed hands from the Romans, the Nasrids, and the Christians, the Alhambra is a standing lesson about the history of Granada and Andalusia in general. Alhambra's architecture is telling of this history. Apart from an English or a Spanish, French, German, an Italian tour, you can also opt for a bilingual tour with a guide who speaks fluent English and Spanish.
Learn about the different architectural styles that make up the different parts of the Alhambra Complex
Walk through the passages and admire the different styles of architecture that were used as the Complex expanded. Your guide will regale you with tales about the Complex's history and provenance as you make your way through. Marvel at the Gate of the Pomegranates and gaze at the Washington Irving Monument. You will also get to visit the Palace of Charles V, built by the Holy Roman Emperor in Alhambra for the poignant significance of being a Muslim fortress that was conquered by his own Christian grandparents. The many pillared palaces is a sight to behold, regardless of its origins.
Visit the Generalife, the luxurious former Summer Palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers of Granada
The Generalife also known as the Architect's Garden, is easily one of the oldest examples of Moorish gardens. In fact, the entire estate is a series of gardens and fountains with exceptional Islamic motifs and architecture tying it all together. Cool turquoise water, flower beds, and lush greenery make the Generalife a beautiful sight. You will also get to spend some time in the Dehesa of Generalife, a vast green expanse offering incredible scenic views of the surroundings.
Your experience
An ancient palace, fortress and citadel, the Alhambra is an eighth-century-old site that is one of the few surviving remnants of the Nasrid Dynasty, the last Islamic Kingdom in Western Europe.
The timeless beauty of Alcazaba
Be transported through time as you explore the Alcazaba, the fortress that is one of the oldest parts of the Alhambra. The rustic beauty of the Candle Tower and the charming garden of Adarves will amaze you. Bask in the splendor of the summer palace of the Nasrids, the Generalife Palace. Stroll through the lush greenery of the Generalife gardens, past fountains and turquoise waters and take in the incredible scenic views of your surroundings.
The enchanting palaces of Alhambra
Upgrade your ticket to gain access to the Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces, and admire its iconic architecture, characterized by stunning frescos, intricately decorated arches, and walls ornamented with the calligraphy of Persian poets. With your ticket, you will also gain access to the Palace of Carlos V. Discover the unique story of this residence that was never used and learn about Nasrid art at the Museum of the Alhambra. Pick the option for a guided tour, and learn more about the monuments from your expert English, French, or Spanish guide to enhance your experience. With a ticket upgrade, you can access the opulent Qubba del Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo and the ancient Arab bath Bañuelo, with a visit to the elegant Palacio de Dar al-Horra, Corral del carbón, and the Moorish houses.
Your experience
Enjoy surroundings of the Alhambra with an expert guide
Walk through the magnificent Puerta de la Justicia and once inside, you will get to admire the different styles of architecture that were used as the Palace expanded. Your guide will regale you with tales about the Palace's history and provenance. Your guide shall walk you past the magnificent Palace of Charles V. It is quite the architectural wonder that boasts of a plateresque style design with traces of Gothic and origin, which was common in the Renaissance era. You will also witness panoramic views of the Albaicín, a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site in all its glory!
Learn about other fascinating parts of the complex
Apart from learning about the key structures of the Alhambra, you will also get to learn about the old San Francisco Convent and the archaeological remains of the Palace of Abencerrajes. Learn about the legend of the Abencerrajes and why this clan was so notable in the Alhambra's vast history.
Your Experience
Embark on a private tour of the Alhambra, Generalife, Alcazaba, and Nasrid Palaces. Learn more about the iconic structures from your official guide. This tour is available in either English, French, or Spanish.
The Royal Palace Of Nasrid Dynasty
Visit the Alhambra, one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture. Built in the year 889 AD, the palace has been labeled World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Walk inside the palace, which was once inhabited by Nasrid emirs.
The Beautiful Generalife Gardens, The Alcazaba, And The Nasrid Palaces
Marvel at the Generalife gardens, an estate that was the summer palace of the Nasrid rulers. Stroll towards the Square of Cisterns (Plaza de Los Aljibes) and admire the fortress of Alcazaba. Make your way to the Nasrid Palaces, where the three most iconic areas of the palace still remain; Mexuar, the Court of Lions, and the Comares Palace.
The Palace of Charles V And Its Nasrid Artworks
Make your way to the Palace of Charles V, a historic building that boasts of Spanish architecture, immersed in the Plateresque style with traces of Gothic origin. It houses the Alhambra museum, where you can marvel at the gallery of Nasrid artworks.
Your experience
The Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) is Italy’s largest national monument. Ride a glass elevator to the terrace for panoramic views of Rome with an insightful audio guide.
Getting started
Your experience will start from the tour operator’s office. Here, you can enjoy a 25-minute long multimedia video that highlights the splendor and beauty of Ancient Rome. You can download an informative audioguide app that offers a plethora of information about Rome.
What to expect
Altare della Patria
Make your way across the square to Altare della Patria, a neoclassical interpretation of the ancient Roman Forum. Here, you will climb into a glass elevator. The chariot statue on top of the monument hides a terrace offering panoramic views of the city. From here, you can catch unobstructed views of the eternal city. You can see the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum from your vantage point.
Features
A massive white marble facade
Equestrian statue of Victor Emmanuel II
Panoramic views of Rome
Corinthian columns
Museum of the Risorgimento and Palazzo Venezia
The Museum of the Risorgimento showcases Italy’s unification history with artifacts, documents, and weapons. Nearby, Palazzo Venezia, once a papal residence, now houses a museum featuring Renaissance art, historic artifacts, and scenic courtyard gardens.
Features
Artifacts, documents, and weapons from Italy’s struggle for unity
Paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts
Your experience
Explore the Eternal City in a way that has never been seen before with this tour that was inspired by his worldwide bestseller. Navigate your way through Rome in your comfortable air-conditioned coach with the help of a professional guide and marvel at the serene churches and bustling squares as your feet walk over worn-out cobblestone alleys and streets, reveling in the knowledge that the author himself must have been standing in the same spots, feeling as inspired as you are right now.
Make your way across Rome (see what we did there?), stepping into Robert Langdon's shoes and following the notorious Path of Illumination while uncovering centuries-old secrets and solving mysteries that are yet to be unraveled. Visit the places made famous by the novel as the Four Altars of Science, like St. Maria del Popolo Church, St. Peter's Square, St. Maria Della Vittoria Church, and Piazza Navona while admiring the works of the artist who literally marked the way, Gian Lorenzo Bernini. You will especially enjoy the final marker he placed, according to the novel, to signify the element of Water, the Fountain of the Four Rivers, a tribute to the four major rivers of the Ancient World, the Nile, the Ganges, the Danube, and the Rio de la Plata.
You will also get to explore the Church of Illumination itself, Castel Sant'Angelo, mere miles from the Vatican and housing Il Passetto, the secret passageway used by numerous Popes as an escape route out of Vatican City. Your tour will conclude at St. Peter's Square.
Note: The Santa Maria del Popolo Church will be closed until October 2024 for renovations. The Church can only be visited from the outside and the guide will provide detailed explanations from there.
Your experience
Located in the heart of the town of Angers lies a medieval fortress called Angers Castle. The structure oozes romance and history - it was founded in the 9th century by the Counts of Anjou and expanded in the 13th century by the young Saint-Louis, son of King Louis VIII, because of its strategic position next to the Maine River. Featuring 17 towers, the massive medieval fortifications have an almost fairy-tale-like charm to them!
Inside, enjoy priority access and discover an actual treasure: the famed Apocalypse tapestry. At 140m in length, it is the largest woven work of medieval art and depicts the historical, social, and political context of the 14th century in France – the time of the Hundred Years War, plague, and famine. It took seven years to complete and its six-meter-high panels, which depict 90 scenes, are beautifully lit in a well-lit gallery. Stroll through the rest of the fortress and admire the residential buildings and carefully tended gardens that grow in the now dried-up moats. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to walk along the ramparts of the castle to get a panoramic view of Angers.
Your experience
Where to start?
Head to the Arc de Triomphe entrance, located at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, one of Paris' busiest roundabouts. Since there is no crosswalk here, you'll have to take the underground stairs from the Champs-Élysées or Rue de la Grande-Armée to reach the arch.
Skip the long ticketing line with your online tickets, pass through the security check, and enter the arch.
Discover the arch
Start your climb (or take the elevator) to the mezzanine level which houses the museum with interactive exhibits showcasing the history of the monument. Don't forget to pick up a free copy of the information booklet, available in 11 languages. Once done, continue your climb to access the rooftop for panoramic views of Paris.
The rooftop
The digital devices installed here will give you a detailed history of every monument before your eyes.
Steps climbed: 242 to the mezzanine level; also accessible by elevator and 42 steps to the rooftop; with no elevator access.
End here
Climb back down and spend some time exploring the base of the triumphal arch, which is of great architectural interest with inscriptions of the names of martyred generals and sculptures depicting important French events. Pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, easily identifiable by the eternal flame that has been burning since 1923.