A Guide to Virtual Tours Around the World

Being stuck at home doesn't mean you can't explore the world. So whether you fancy some escapism from teaching the kids, or simply want to start planning your next big trip from the comfort of your sofa, check out these incredible virtual tours from around the world:

Whether you're an opera aficionado or a complete newbie, there's something magical about the productions at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art (lovingly known as 'The Met'). And now you don't even have to visit the Big Apple to catch a show – each day The Met is streaming shows from its Live in HD series for free on its website. How's that for sofa sophistication? Find out more about the latest timetable here.

If you’re into your virtual reality experiences, this one’s for you. Download the Anne Frank House VR app here, and it’s like you’re really in Amsterdam, learning all about the wartime teen and her tragic, compelling experiences. The tour is completely free and lasts 25 minutes, really whetting your appetite for a trip to see the real thing when the world reopens.

If you’re a Lord of the Rings buff (or a fan of movies full-stop), this one is for you. The guys at the Weta Cave, in New Zealand’s capital Wellington, have given a little snapshot into the incredible effects and models that are created here with this awesome YouTube tour. They don’t give away all the workshop’s secrets of course, but this is a great intro for planning your trip to the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Trek through the Grand Canyon without needing any walking boots! This street-view hike lets you explore the true beauty of this all-American wonder, including some of its best spots, like the majestic Bright Angel Trail. Start the Journey with Google Street View here.

Thanks to Story Spheres, you can take a walk on the wild side and actually go for a virtual stroll through Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, in Australia’s Northern Territory. Accompanied by commentary, cast this one to your big-screen TV and you’ll feel like you’re on a real guided tour of one of Australia’s most-beloved Aboriginal sites. Check it out here.

Get a closer look at one of the world’s most iconic monuments thanks to Google. You can not only see the Eiffel Tower up-close, but you’ll also get to learn all about the history behind the Parisian landmark – it’s like a virtual museum! Take the tour here.

Seeing something LIVE makes your virtual experience all the more immersive. And you can do just that with this live safari cam, which shows you the real-time goings-on at a watering hole in Kenya. Think hippos, big cats and more. Like real life, though, you have to be patient for the best wildlife sightings. And of course, nothing beats being there in person – although we reckon this is a pretty impressive alternative.