Places Chris Wants to Go

Perfectly preserved ancient monastery in an impossibly dramatic location on a rocky island in the Atlantic.

A tiny village church in dramatic surroundings.

These unique and ever-changing caves are a wonder of Iceland.

This educational and eco-friendly community is Iceland's "home of the sun."

A modern Nordic Pompeii on the Icelandic island of Heimaey.

Internet rumors, often involving Icelandic singer Björk, have abounded regarding this isolated outcrop of rock.

On an island south of Iceland, a large volcanic rock formation resembles an elephant.

Inside this Icelandic greenhouse, geothermal energy keeps tomatoes warm and growing.

The Arctic Circle runs through this isolated spot north of Iceland.

Every summer local children form "pysja patrols" to save young birds that have wandered from their nests.

This modern monument to pagan belief looks like it was transported straight from ancient times.

Rising from the sea like a stone monster.

This legendary city has been a tourist attraction for centuries.

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

Monasteries on rock pillars, once accessible only by frayed ropes.

Germany's longest suspension rope bridge.

The castle where Martin Luther secretly translated the New Testament from Greek to German while in hiding.

Tourists often confuse this beautifully ornate former cigarette factory for a mosque.

Originally envisioned by King Ludwig II to rival Versailles, Herrenchiemsee's "New Palace" remains half-gilded for lack of funds.

The world's tallest church tower reveals a spectacular view to anyone up to the task of climbing the daunting staircase.

This incredible stone temple is a monument to death, victory, and fantasy architecture.

When a medieval fire claimed the original St. Stephen’s Cathedral, it sparked a pattern of unquenchable organ building.

The medieval institution is home to the precious treasure stolen in World War II in one of the greatest art thefts of the 20th century.

Thousands of flowers create enchanting pink tunnels over the city streets.