Side streets and alleyways often exude mystery. What’s around the corner or what will I find? Danger? Intrigue? Side streets and alleys often have a negative, managing connotation and are associated with dodgy activities. Perhaps, that’s the appeal. The photo collection of alleyways and side streets here is not particularly threatening — especially since the photos were taken in the daytime. However, each alleyway and street offered something interesting.

The shot above and the following two pictures I took in Melbourne, Australia. I was lucky to be traveling with Amy, a dear friend of mine who is an excellent photographer, and she inspired me to appreciate beauty in even the smallest detail.

I really like this shot above because you can see Federation Square — perhaps the opposite of an alleyway — A cheery meeting place with heaps of activity.

Belfast, Northern Ireland. Due to decades of turmoil and strife, the alleys and walls of Belfast are full of stunning political street art, detailing anger, anguish, survival and pride.

Another Belfast street.

Paris, France. Like the wonderful rooftops, alleyways and side streets abound in Paris and they are some of the most visually striking aspects of the city center.

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. This isn’t really a side street or alley, but it is a narrow pathway that leads to another street. Plus, this route was gorgeous — I love the hanging vines that are everywhere in Ubud.

Sevilla, Spain. Alleyways and side streets play a huge role during “Semana Santa,” Holy Week. During procesiones  (processions), worshippers carry wooden float structures with religious sculptures and sacred relics from the local churches and cathedrals through these paths.

Barcelona, Spain. Like Paris, Barcelona has many intriguing alleyways. I took the photos above and directly below in Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter), which is basically old town Barcelona.

Florence, Italy. In Italy, it seems like after turning every corner, you will see some beautiful  or famous historic building.

Utrecht, Netherlands. Because of the canals, many Dutch cities have side streets with cafés, shops, canal houses and bikes lined up. The Dutch make the most out of the limited space that they have.

Salida, Colorado, USA. The pathway in the left of this photo leads to the Arkansas River.

Fremantle, Western Australia. This port city has beautifully kept historical buildings and heritage sites.

Sydney, Australia. This is the most narrow alley in Australia, and you know there is some history behind it since it is in The Rocks, which used to be notorious for the “debauchery and sin” of sailors and prostitutes. Now the area is an urban, hip tourist destination.