Free virtual tours you can take from home

With the coronavirus bringing closure of museums and other cultural or fun places, many of them have turned to the online, offering free virtual tours that you surely had on your “to-visit” list or, ones that you might not even know existed. It definitely was the case for me.

So while I entertained myself and discovered places by virtually touring them, I wanted to share them with you as well, you know, in case you’ve had enough of Netflix, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter (I know I have). Note: some of these would be very entertaining for kids as well.

Of course, “visiting” online can not beat being there in person, but I think it’s a great opportunity to get an idea of, and “expand our horizons”.

While in Italy, we, of course, wanted to visit The Sistine Chapel and other locations in the Vatican. However, we decided to skip it because, while we were in Rome, getting into the Vatican entailed waiting in insane lines for 3+ hours in over 90-degrees heat - hard no for us. We visited Saint Peter’s Square, and that was it, leaving the rest for another time.

To my delight, I found that you can virtually visit Saint Peter’s square (as well as most of the Vatican) here, or the Sistine Chapel and other museums online here. The fun part? You don’t get to be in shoulder-to-shoulder crowds (perfect for #socialdistancing), and hours-long lines - enjoy!

More ideas below…

Me trying to cool off in Saint Peter’s Square, Vatican

While we’re still somewhat on the topic of Rome, take a virtual journey of the city’s landmarks here - they are stunning!

If you’re still thirsty for Italian art, take an online tour of the Uffizi Museum in Florence, which boasts with important works of art of the Italian culture.

If you’re in the mood for some mystery, check Winchester Mystery House virtual trip, and discover an architectural wonder and historical landmark in San Jose, California, that to this day is surrounded by many questions.

Moving on to a place that I dream of visiting- Machu Picchu; like I said above - it can’t possibly beat being there, but it sure is a [breathtaking] start.

For [almost] endless virtual tours, check this site.

A place that I discovered by virtual touring is Dry Tortugas National Park of Florida, which I immediately added to my “must-visit” list - it looks incredible; historical site and clear blue water - that’s totally my kind-of-place, right?

You can also tour Yosemite here, and other gorgeous National Parks here.

Not a tour, but you can watch the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) live here (at night).

To further satisfy your curiosity, Google Arts and Culture offers numerous virtual trips including cultural sites, street art, nature, jewelry exhibits, and the list goes on.

I hope you find this list and the links entertaining - happy exploring from the comfort of your home. You can also “virtually travel” through photos by visiting my Travel category on my blog.