One of the most exhilarating parts of international travel is exploring the subtle nuances of everyday life in different countries. Street naming conventions are a prime example. Consider the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris, a world-famous thoroughfare leading to the Arc de Triomphe. Its name is instantly recognizable, especially to English speakers, thanks to the French loanword “avenue.” However, not all names are as familiar, which can make navigating international streets a challenge. From the vibrant hustle of London’s Piccadilly Circus to the efficiency of the German Autobahn, here are 10 names for streets and squares around the world that reflect fascinating cultural differences. 

Circus

While the name “circus” might evoke images of acrobats and clowns, Piccadilly Circus in London’s West End is actually a vibrant traffic junction and public gathering space dating to the early 19th century. Famous for its neon signs, billboards, and theaters, Piccadilly Circus also transforms into a festive spectacle during the holiday season. For those unfamiliar with British terminology, the word “circus” refers to a circular area where multiple roads converge, derived from the Latin word circus, meaning “ring.” 

Paseo

In Spanish, the terminology for streets and walkways varies based on their size and function, much like in English. Among the most common routes are paseos, which are public walkways or boulevards often adorned with trees. A stunning example is Madrid’s Paseo del Prado, a boulevard that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural importance. This route is a gateway to some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Prado Museum, the Royal Botanical Garden, and the Fountain of Neptune. 

Chowk

No trip to Old Delhi, India, is complete without a visit to Chandni Chowk, which translates to “Moonlight Square.” This famous street market is one of the oldest and busiest in the city, built by the Mughal emperor during the 17th century. The Hindi term chowk translates to “square” or “courtyard” in English. The historical square earned its name from the canals that once reflected moonlight through the market, though they no longer exist. However, the cultural significance of Chandni Chowk is still apparent centuries later. The market stalls are brimming with spices, dried fruit, handmade jewelry, essential oils, and brightly colored saris. 

Close

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is home to Mary King’s Close, a historic alleyway with a sinister reputation. In the Scots language, “close” (pronounced “klohs”) is a term for a narrow alleyway, typically no wider than 4 feet. This particular close is named after Mary King, a merchant who resided there during the 17th century. Today, the cobbled pathway is open for tours led by costumed guides telling ghastly tales of the alleyway’s eerie past. Most of the dead-end alleyways that extend from Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile — Old Town’s main street — are also called “closes.” Visitors looking for a thoroughfare should search for a “wynd.” These narrow roadways connect to more prominent streets in the capital city.

Platz

In Germany and other German-speaking countries such as Austria, Belgium, and Switzerland, platz refers to a town square. These squares are culturally significant across Europe, serving as community focal points for events, markets, and holiday celebrations. Many of these squares are centuries old, such as Residenzplatz in Salzburg, Austria. Meaning “Residence Square,” Residenzplatz is a 16th-century forecourt adjacent to the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral in the heart of Salzburg’s Old City. This historical square hosts various public events, from musical performances to festive holiday markets.

Gracht

Many cities around the world were built on a canal system, but few still utilize them as much as the Dutch. In the Netherlands, canals are just as vital as streets, so in cities like Amsterdam, roadways are often named after the canal, or gracht, they parallel. Brouwersgracht, one of central Amsterdam’s most scenic streets, runs along the Brouwersgracht, a canal that translates to “Brewer’s Canal” for the breweries that once lined its banks. Known for their charming atmosphere and historical significance, the street and canal are dotted with scenic stone bridges, Dutch shops and bakeries, and various museums and art galleries.

Crescent

The Royal Crescent in Bath, England, is famous for its row of terraced houses lining a curved street. In the U.K., any street that curves into a crescent or semicircle can be designated as a “crescent” rather than a “street.” At the address No. 1 Royal Crescent in Bath, visitors can explore a townhome beautifully converted into a museum, depicting what life was like in this fashionable 18th-century spa town. The historical facades of the Royal Crescent are popularly used in film and television today, including the hit show Bridgerton and a recent adaptation of Jane Austen’s Persuasion.

Scramble Crossing (Sukuranburu-kōsaten)

In the U.S., they’re known as “crosswalks,” while in the U.K., they’re called “zebra crossings.” However, in Tokyo, there’s a pedestrian crossing so massive (and chaotic) that only one name is appropriate: “scramble crossing.” During peak traffic, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing sees thousands of pedestrians crossing simultaneously in every direction. Flanked by the Shibuya Station, shopping centers, and entertainment venues, this bustling intersection epitomizes urban life in Tokyo. At a “scramble crossing,” vehicles stop in all directions, giving pedestrians full command of the intersection. These crossings are common in Japanese cities that feature heavy foot traffic. 

Rue

English speakers will readily recognize many street names in France, as several street suffixes are borrowed from the French language. Terms like “avenue,” “boulevard,” “promenade,” and “route” are familiar loanwords. However, one popular naming convention often gets lost in translation: rue, the French word for “street.”

The term is commonly used in France and other French-speaking nations, including Belgium, Luxembourg, Monaco, Switzerland, and even parts of Canada. One well-known example of this is the Rue de Rivoli, named after the Battle of Rivoli, a notable victory for Napoleon Bonaparte. The street runs parallel to the Tuileries Garden and Seine River, passing landmarks such as the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde, in which place is French for “square.”

Autobahn

The Autobahn is perhaps the world’s most prominent high-speed highway system. It connects many of Germany’s major cities — including Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg — and expands into parts of neighboring countries. Some sections of the Autobahn have no federally mandated speed limit as long as weather permits, allowing users to travel across regions at high speeds.

The term Autobahn has the same meaning as “expressway” in English — it is a combination of the German words auto, meaning “car,” and bahn, meaning “road” or “way.” Since 1953, The official term for this road system is Bundesautobahn (“federal motorway”), though it’s commonly shortened to Autobahn. 

I’ve lived in New York City for over 16 years, and in that time, I’ve stepped foot on Liberty Island, strolled through the halls of the Museum of Modern Art, and stood in the shadows of the Empire State Building. But for all these eminently recognizable landmarks, New York City contains many hidden treasures that are often overlooked by those who visit. Some of these off-the-beaten-path attractions are arguably even more enjoyable due to the lack of long lines and giant crowds. Here are five of my favorite underrated NYC attractions — one in each borough — and why you should visit them on your next Big Apple getaway.

The Met Cloisters – Manhattan

Tucked away in Fort Tryon Park at the upper end of the island of Manhattan, The Met Cloisters is a museum unlike any other in New York City. It’s operated by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which is better known for its main museum on the east side of Central Park. But this off-the beaten-path alternative is a true hidden treasure you won’t find elsewhere, as it proudly claims to be the only museum in the country dedicated exclusively to art from the Middle Ages. 

When I first visited this stunning site, I was dreading the idea of taking a 45-minute-long subway ride to some museum I’d never heard of. But soon after I arrived, those concerns were put to rest. The first thing that struck me was the beautiful nature of the surrounding park. In fact, it doesn’t even feel like you’re in a major city — the trees block out all of the surrounding tall buildings nearby, opening up toward the west for unobstructed views of the glistening Hudson River down below. You can spend hours staring out toward the water, but then you’d miss exploring the museum itself, which is just as fulfilling.

Architect Charles Collens designed the Cloisters, modeling his grand vision on medieval-era structures. The museum opened its doors in 1938, welcoming visitors to gaze upon a collection of art that’s since expanded to over 2,000 pieces. For me, the highlights were an array of stunning stained glass windows from the 13th century and the collection of ornately decorated religious artifacts that are gilded with gold and other embellishments. I also enjoyed the peace and serenity that comes from winding through the museum’s medieval-style gardens, which make the Cloisters feel like a little piece of classical Europe tucked away in Manhattan. 

Van Cortlandt Park – The Bronx

While Central Park is undoubtedly the most famous greenspace in New York City, it’s far from the only one worth visiting. In fact, the Bronx has the most greenery of any New York City borough. This includes the 1,146 acres that make up Van Cortlandt Park, which is one of my favorite natural preserves in the city. Van Cortlandt is the city’s third-largest park, with over 20 miles of hiking trails that take you through dense woodlands and over rocky crags. But it’s also renowned for its history, cultural significance, and entertainment options.

Most of my visits to Van Cortlandt Park have been spent at Van Cortlandt Golf Course, which opened in 1895 as the first public municipal golf course in the United States. Yes, I’m one of those delusional golfers who keeps trying to break 100 even though it’s seemingly impossible, and Van Cortlandt Golf Course is one of the best places in the city to attempt my lofty goals. It’s long been a popular spot among New York celebrities, too, including Yankees slugger Babe Ruth, groundbreaking athlete Jackie Robinson, and the Three Stooges. 

Even if you’re not much of a golfer, there’s plenty more to love about the park. It’s packed with unique hiking experiences, with many of the trails combining untouched nature with urban development. And if you’re an American history buff like I am, I’d recommend popping into the Van Cortlandt House Museum, which is the oldest building in the Bronx. Dating back to 1748, it remains almost exactly as it was prior to the American Revolution. 

There’s also Riverdale Equestrian Center for those who love horses, an Olympic-sized swimming pool to beat the heat during summer, and tons of biodiversity if you’re a nature lover. Best of all, the park is easy to get to from midtown Manhattan — it’s about a 40-minute ride along the 1 train from Times Square to 242nd Street.

Ganesha Temple – Queens

The Šri Mahã Vallabha Ganapati Devasthãnam — better known as the Ganesha Temple — is a Hindu temple in Flushing, Queens, that opened in 1977. Although I’m not of the Hindu faith, I still often think back to my first visit to the temple in early 2020 for a wedding. 

Exhibiting spectacular architecture, the temple was built by Indian immigrants using granite stones imported from India, making it one of the most historically important and architecturally accurate Hindu temples in the West. The temple’s intricate exterior design is reminiscent of temples found in southern India, with significant religious iconography etched into the giant stone pillars that loom high above. 

What makes this temple particularly memorable are the colors. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by a vibrant golden arch. Then, as you wind through the halls, you’ll see vibrant artwork around every corner, depicting important figures from the Hindu religion. The temple is also known for offering exciting cultural activities like dance classes and vocal music classes taught by skilled experts to anyone who’s looking to broaden their cultural perspective.

After a long walk through the temple, you might build up an appetite. That’s when it’s time to head to the Temple Canteen, which has some of the most delicious vegetarian Indian food found anywhere in the city. The canteen catered the wedding I attended, and I fondly remember those plentiful portions as being some of the most delectable wedding food I’ve ever eaten. The Temple Canteen isn’t just for big events, though. The restaurant operates year-round — stop in for a bite, even if you’re not a vegetarian, and your stomach will thank you.

Staten Island Ferry – Staten Island

It may seem odd for me to suggest a commuter ferry as an attraction worth seeing. But the Staten Island Ferry is, by far, one of my favorite experiences in the city — and it’s also one of the few things you can do here that’s 100% free. The Staten Island Ferry operates 117 trips between lower Manhattan and Staten Island on an average day, and it has been in operation since 1905. For anyone looking to explore New York’s smallest borough, the ferry runs multiple times an hour from lower Manhattan.

I took the Staten Island Ferry for the first time in 2001, and the memories of that trip are still etched into my mind — it was the last time I ever saw the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers, where my father once worked. A couple of aspects of the ferry journey stood out to me. First, there were the views of New York Harbor, which can’t be beat. Whenever I ride the ferry now, I head down to the lower front portion of the boat, where I can look out on the water without any obstructions.

Second, the ferry provides great photo ops for the Statue of Liberty. While other ferries to Liberty Island cost upwards of $20 per person, the Staten Island Ferry takes you right by Lady Liberty, which is especially majestic when it’s lit up in the evening.

Once I disembark in Staten Island, my favorite thing to do — as a big baseball fan — is to attend a Staten Island FerryHawks baseball game. It’s just a five-minute walk from the ferry, but be sure to venture further into the borough for more culinary options. In particular, Staten Island is known for delicious Sri Lankan food, and many of the restaurants are only a 25-minute walk or so from the ferry terminal.

After returning to Manhattan, I like to grab a drink at the historic Fraunces Tavern, just a short walk from the terminal on the other side of New York Harbor. This bar and eatery was a favorite of George Washington back in the 18th century, and it continues to offer delicious libations to customers who flock there for the uniquely historic vibe and decor.

Green-Wood Cemetery – Brooklyn

Green-Wood Cemetery isn’t as glamorous as Broadway or as exhilarating as a trip to the top of the Empire State Building. But it is one of the most fascinating, albeit macabre attractions in the city. The cemetery dates back to 1838, and it ushered in a new era of building public greenspaces around the city. In fact, the success of Green-Wood Cemetery, located near Park Slope and Prospect Park in Brooklyn, is what inspired the city to hold a contest to design Central Park, which opened two decades later.

The cemetery combines historic architecture, natural beauty, and cultural significance, and it all begins with the Green-Wood Cemetery Arch at the main entryway. This Civil War-era structure, made of gorgeous brownstone, is one of the most recognizable attractions in the borough. As you wind along the many cemetery paths, you’ll find countless buildings and monuments that are designed in the classical or Romanesque styles, as well as a Gothic-style church that dates to the early 20th century.

I also find it fascinating to think about the historic figures located on park grounds. With 570,000 or so permanent residents, Green-Wood is the final resting place of many New York City legends, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose work redefined the art scene and continues to inspire countless artists today.

You’ll also find the gravesites of composer Leonard Bernstein, notorious New York politician Boss Tweed, and Henry Chadwick, the latter of whom popularized baseball as the country’s national pastime. I’d suggest visiting all of the spots and reminiscing about the ways in which these people shaped both New York City and American history. I have yet to find another spot in the city that is so historically significant and serene.

Cobblestone streets, old fortress walls, port views, public squares — while these could easily be used to describe a trip to Spain or Belgium, they also apply to Québec City. The beautiful eastern Canadian city is often overlooked in the shadow of metropolitan neighbors like Montreal or Toronto, but as the heart of French-speaking Canada, it offers visitors a unique blend of Old World charm and modern energy. Not up for a flight to Europe? Learn more about Québec City’s rich past and current attractions that make it a must-visit (and much closer) destination to add to your travel list.

New France, New Beginnings

In 1608, French explorer Samuel de Champlain founded Québec City as a key settlement in the New France colony in North America. Its prime location on the banks of the St. Lawrence River meant the settlement quickly became a hub for the fur trade and an important point of defense for the French. It wasn’t the first time the French had tried to claim the area — Jacques Cartier first arrived in 1535 but abandoned his settlement after a particularly harsh winter. 

When Cartier landed, he encountered the Iroquoian village of Stadacona, where around 1,000 Indigenous inhabitants fished, hunted, and cultivated corn. By the time de Champlain arrived in 1608, the Stadaconans had vanished and been replaced by nomadic Algonquians. The city’s name is believed to have come from an Algonquian word meaning “narrowing of the river.” 

Despite its deep French roots and strong Francophone culture today, Québec City was also shaped by its British history. In 1759, during the famous Battle of the Plains of Abraham, the British captured Québec City. In 1867, the province of Québec became one of the original four provinces of Canada, with Québec City being one of the oldest cities in North America.

If Walls Could Talk

Québec City’s geography is a big part of its European essence. The riverside city is divided into two sections: Upper Town (Haute-Ville) and Lower Town (Basse-Ville), which together form the heart of Old Québec (Vieux-Québec). Upper Town is perched atop Cap Diamant, a promontory overlooking the St. Lawrence River that, in the colonial era, provided a strategic defensive advantage.

Today, the stone fortifications that still surround the Upper Town make it the only walled city in North America north of Mexico — a feature that helped earn its UNESCO World Heritage designation. Upper Town is also home to some of Québec City’s other key landmarks, including the aforementioned Plains of Abraham, the Citadelle, Dufferin Terrace, the Place d’Armes park and its popular public square, and the iconic Château Frontenac, a historic 1893 hotel whose spectacular medieval look defines the city’s skyline. 

The Lower Town, right on the banks of the St. Lawrence, is a bustling spot full of old-world charm. The postcard-perfect Rue du Petit-Champlain and the Place Royale square are famous for their European village feel, with cobblestones underfoot and vibrant storefronts, restaurants, and stone architecture — like the 17th-century Notre-Dame-des-Victoires — at every turn. 

The upper and lower parts of the city are connected by steep, winding streets and the famous Breakneck Steps (Escalier Casse-Cou). Or, for a more continental experience, try the funicular, one of only a few that operates in a historic city setting in North America.

French Traditions

True to its French settler origins, Québec City’s French culture remains strong today. The city predominantly speaks French but also embraces its English-speaking community and tourists. Still, it doesn’t hurt to learn a few French words or phrases before visiting, such as bonjour for “hello” and merci for “thank you.” Asking “Parlez-vous anglais?” (“Do you speak English?”) will do well in a pinch.

The city’s must-try dishes also highlight its traditions. Poutine, a beloved Quebecois classic made of fries piled with cheese curds and gravy, can be found just about anywhere. Locals will direct you to simple versions from any casse-croûtes (Québec’s version of a small snack bar or diner), but it’s best to sample as many versions from as many places as possible. 

Maple syrup, another iconic product of the region, features prominently in many dishes and desserts in the city. At La Bûche, maple taffy is cooled on a snow bar, then twirled onto a stick for the next best thing to an authentic sugar shack experience.

Year-Round European Magic

Québec City’s European atmosphere extends through world-class festivals and celebrations throughout the year. In winter, the picturesque city turns into a snow-covered wonderland that wouldn’t be out of place in the Alps. The highlight of the season is the famous Winter Carnival, which debuted in 1894 and now draws some 500,000 visitors annually. The spectacle features snow baths, ice canoe races, live music, and more festivities, all while the city’s historic beauty twinkles with lights and ice sculptures. 

In summer, the Plains of Abraham welcome over 1 million people for the Festival d’été de Québec music festival, while the city’s outdoor cafes conjure the streets of Paris. And each June, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day celebrates the city and province’s rich Francophone heritage with parades, outdoor concerts, and lively block parties.

How To Visit Québec City

Québec City is easily accessible, with regular flights arriving and departing from Jean Lesage International Airport. The airport is only 10 miles from downtown Québec City, meaning a short rental car, cab, or bus ride. (The latter departs every 30 minutes and costs $3.75 CAD.) Trains also frequent Québec City through Canada’s Via Rail. Visitors from the U.S. can take Amtrak to Montreal, where transfers to Via Rail trains into Québec City are available. 

Once in the city, the best way to explore is on foot — yes, even with all the hills — although if you’re traveling by car, the city offers handy driving and parking tips. For unique views of the city’s sights, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride or a guided river cruise, with unparalleled views of the Château Frontenac, the nearby Montmorency Falls, and Ile D’Orléans, a charming island village well worth its own excursion. 

The climate in Québec City varies greatly depending on the season, so packing appropriately is key. In winter, prepare for snow and cold temperatures, while in summer, the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor exploration. Either way, bring something nice: Even if you’re not staying there, Château Frontenac’s elegant Bar 1608 will make you one of the best cocktails — and certainly provide one of the best views — in the city. 

Devoted sitcom fans often like to discover the real-life locations behind some of television’s most iconic shows. From the favorite hangout for Jerry and friends on Seinfeld to the Banks family mansion from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, these sites bring our favorite TV shows to life. Learn about five legendary sitcom settings with these five classic TV sitcom locations you can actually visit.

Monk’s Cafe From Seinfeld – New York, New York

Located on the corner of Broadway and West 112th Street in Manhattan’s Morningside Heights neighborhood, Tom’s Restaurant appeared in nearly every episode of Seinfeld as Monk’s Cafe. Scenes of Jerry, Kramer, George, and Elaine chatting over coffee and meals were actually filmed on a soundstage in Los Angeles, but the exterior shots were of real-life Tom’s Restaurant (with the “Tom’s” part left out of the frame).

Its appearance on the classic ’90s sitcom instantly put this family-owned New York City diner on the map, but the restaurant had a long history before that. It was established in the 1940s and has been owned by the Zoulis family for many decades. As a tribute to the sitcom, the walls at Tom’s are now adorned with nostalgic Seinfeld memorabilia, making it a must-visit for fans. 

Banks Family Home From The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air – Los Angeles, California

Despite the title of the beloved ’90s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the home of the show’s central characters, the Banks family, is located in the picturesque Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles (and most of the interior scenes were filmed in a studio).

The opening sequence shows Will, a tough teenager from Philadelphia who moves to Bel-Air, as the taxi drops him off at the now-famous Banks mansion. Currently valued at nearly $9 million, the mansion was featured in a 2020 promotion through Airbnb for the show’s 30th anniversary, offering exclusive stays for fans.

Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment From Sex and the City – New York, New York

Another iconic sitcom set in New York City, Sex and the City captivated audiences over its six-season run from 1998 to 2004. Many memorable scenes showcase main character Carrie Bradshaw’s love life unfolding at the entrance of her Upper East Side apartment. However, the real-life building used for exterior shots is located on Perry Street in the West Village. It has become a pilgrimage site for devoted SATC fans, who stroll by hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous steps where Carrie once stood. 

Paddy’s Pub From It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia – Los Angeles, California

The gang from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia filmed many scenes inside the fictional Paddy’s Pub, the South Philly dive bar co-owned by Charlie, Dennis, and Mac. While the interior shots were filmed in a Los Angeles studio, the exterior pub shots are of the Nate Starkman Building (also known as the Pan Pacific Warehouse) on Mateo Street in the Arts District of Los Angeles.

The building opened in 1908 and once operated as a factory for paints, oils, and varnishes for Nate Starkman & Son. It’s now a popular filming site, seen in shows such as Parks and Recreation, Castle, Charmed, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. 

Rockefeller Center From 30 Rock – New York, New York

Tina Fey’s acclaimed TV series 30 Rock is based loosely on her life experiences working on another hit series, Saturday Night Live. The show was mostly filmed in a Queens, New York, studio designed to mimic the real NBC Studios in midtown Manhattan. However, it frequently features exterior shots of the iconic 30 Rockefeller Center, the real-life filming location of SNL. Visitors can snap a photo of the famous “NBC Studios” sign outside the building, while the most dedicated fans can go one step further and take an NBC Studios tour to see where many of the network’s shows are filmed.