Four cities – many sights with a twist

Dublin

For those who love myths and stories, the Hellfire Club at Montpelier Hill, a 30 minute drive from Dublin centre, is an interesting place to visit. Like many old buildings, the ruins of this old house are associated with old Irish myths and legends. Some even believe that the house was burnt down by the devil and left in its current ruined state. As well as being one of the most haunted places in Dublin, the Hellfire Club is an ideal spot for a picnic while watching the sunset. It also offers phenomenal views of Dublin city.

Kilmainham Gaol, one of Ireland's most notorious prisons, was built in 1787 directly on the gallows to house public hangings. Today, Kilmainham has been restored and is open to the public. Known for its rebellious prisoners, the jail housed Irish nationalists, among others, and housed men, women and children. The youngest prisoner is believed to have been just seven years old. During the worst years of famine, people deliberately broke the law to enter the prison in the hope of getting food.

If you want to take a short day trip, Ireland's Eye is a great option. The island is off the coast of Dublin, a 15–20-minute boat ride away. Martello Tower by the shore is a good landmark to keep you on the map as you explore the island's rugged landscape. Ireland's Eye is home to seals and nesting ground for a variety of waterfowl. If you visit in the spring, you may be lucky enough to spot some fun-looking puffins on the island.

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Gothenburg

One of the best things in Gothenburg, especially in summer, is its archipelago and the ferry that takes you to the different islands. Hönö is one of the most popular islands. You can get there by car ferry, and walk over bridges to the other islands. On Hönö you should visit Klåvan, a small fishing village with several good restaurants and shops. Also worth a visit is Vrångö, the southernmost island in the Gothenburg archipelago, known for its beautiful nature, great swimming spots and excellent seafood restaurants.

Volvo, the Swedish car brand, has its own World of Volvo centre in Gothenburg, offering a unique opportunity to discover the history of the brand, and therefore of Sweden. You can explore iconic vehicles and vintage models, as well as take part in a range of interactive experiences. You can also experience what it feels like to be in a wind tunnel.

Kortedala Museum is a must for anyone interested in history of the Swedish welfare state. The museum is a reconstructed two-room, kitchen apartment furnished with original furniture from the 1950s and 60s. Check the opening hours in advance, as the museum is open for limited hours.

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Lisbon

Visiting a cemetery might not sound like the most enjoyable holiday activity, but Lisbon’s 19th century Prazeres Cemetery is well worth a visit. Even the name Prazeres means pleasure! The cemetery is very beautiful with tree-lined streets leading off to architecturally interesting mausoleums, including the largest mausoleum in Europe.

Lisbon’s Museu da Farmácia, museum for the history of medicine, also offers something unique. It houses entire apothecaries constructed in the styles of the 18th to the early 20th centuries. The displays include everything from apothecary instruments to strange medicinal ingredients.

For fans of history and literature a must-see in Lisbon is the bookshop Livraria Bertrand located in the historic Chiado neighbourhood. Established in 1732, it is the world’s oldest bookshop still in operation. The shop has a vast collection of books, including an extensive selection of books in English. It has also been a favourite meeting point for artists, writers, and intellectuals throughout its history.

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Prague

Prague has many quirky sights with a link to the city’s medieval past. The 13th century Kostel svatého Jakuba Většího (Basilica of St. James the Greater) is a stunning church in Prague’s old town with elaborate mosaics and gildings. The church also has on display a centuries-old mummified arm of an alleged church thief.

For more medieval eccentricity try the museum of alchemists and magicians Speculum Alchemiae. The museum is in one of the oldest houses in Prague and it has displays of alchemical laboratories with all relevant equipment. If you want to extend your knowledge on the subject, the museum also offers walking tours of Prague’s places that have a connection to magic and alchemy.

For something modern but equally off-beat, try out one of the black light performances shown in several of Prague’s theatres. The performances are held in darkened rooms using black light and various optical illusions, and the result is breath-taking. Search for "black light theatre" to find the options available.

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