The water-powered carriages are long gone, but for over a century this funicular railway has been the fastest route to the highest point in Paris.

This Parisian gem is one of the most incredible ethnographic museums in the world.

Dating from the 18th century to today, this museum houses a collection of over 1,200 musical instruments.

This historic island prison holds one of the dungeons from the Count of Monte Cristo even though it is a work of fiction.

The Cycladic architecture makes this Athens neighborhood feel like an island paradise hidden in the shadow of the Acropolis.

This pink watchtower served as the seat of the Greek government after independence from the Turks.

Savor sheep milk yogurt at the last of Athens' dairy bars.

The railway carts travelers to central Athens's highest peak, which offers stunning vistas of the city.

150 or so scrounged-up lamps, chandeliers, and lanterns light up this alley in central Athens.

This abandoned shopping arcade has new life as an art installation.

Where commuters walk through remnants of an ancient Greek necropolis.

A former royal garden with lush surroundings in the heart of the city.

This ancient Greek place of assembly and marketplace is being revealed layer by layer below the modern Athens cityscape.

This medieval village clings to a cliff in southwestern France.

A priceless work by the 17th-century Dutch master is on display in the parish church of a French village.

Former hunting lodge of a duke who was an avid collector of impressionist works.

Hundreds of stone stairs and a winding medieval bridge connect this haunting Spanish island to the mainland.

Marvel at this immense work of art that greets arrivals to the city.

This 19th-century fountain's namesake animal isn't what you think it is.

Giant topiary dog once played a role in a terrorist bomb plot.

Noirish green neon marks the location of one of the oldest private detective agencies in France.

Museum on French naval history, with magnificent figureheads, a historic diving suit, and a boat used by Napoleon.

The tradition of open-air secondhand and antiquarian bookselling in Paris dates back to the Renaissance.

A museum of carnival attractions where you are invited to ride the rides.