Want to discover the best Europe has to offer? With something for everyone when looking to get away from it all, Europe offers many different types of experiences whether it’s a beach holiday you’re craving, snowy mountains or culture hotspots that take you back in time. As there is so much to choose from, below you’ll find some excellent locations to consider if you’re undecided – perhaps you can take in multiple cities on a round trip before heading back to the UK, or maybe you just want a week or two simply relaxing in one place, the choice is yours.
Western Europe Highlights
Iconic cities, historic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes are dotted throughout Western Europe, with France, Spain and Portugal all offering endless variety. For a city with everything, Paris is a must and offers many famous sights from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre and the scenic Seine River banks. Away from the bustling capital, the French Riviera on the Southeastern coast will add a bit of glamour to your trip, with its luxurious yachts and chic beachside boulevards.
Moving onto Spain, you can immerse yourself in the heritage of Barcelona, where you can take in the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia which is the world’s largest unfinished Catholic church, whilst a trip to Madrid provides lots of royal history too. Across the border in Portugal, Lisbon’s cobblestone streets and sights like the Belem Tower reflect the city’s maritime history, while a visit to the Douro Valley, a World Heritage Site, will give you stunning river views and vineyards. For beach lovers, the many golden beaches on the Algarve will provide a relaxing break away from it all.
Central Europe Must-Visits
There’s plenty to love about central Europe, where you can find a diverse array of experiences suitable for all types of travellers. In Germany, Berlin will reward you with plenty of history, culture, and art, as well as must-see sites like the Brandenburg Gate and the poignant remnants of the Berlin Wall. Munich, whilst famed for the annual Oktoberfest celebrations, also boasts plenty to see from the stunning Nymphenburg Palace to Marienplatz in the heart of the city.
If you head to Austria, Vienna offers imperial grandeur with its magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and the historic State Opera House. The musical legacies of Mozart and Beethoven can be seen throughout the city with museums of both composers a worthy visit. In Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, visitors can explore the charming Old Town and the impressive 11th Century Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Heading to Zurich in Switzerland, you can visit Grossmünster church and take in the impressive views from Uetliberg which sits 2,850 feet above sea level. You also have the picturesque city of Lucerne which provides the quintessential Swiss experience. For those seeking adventure, look no further than the Swiss Alps for opportunities to ski as well as hike amid the stunning scenery.
Top Tips Before Booking Your European Adventure
Whilst planning for all of the more exciting parts of your European holiday, it can be easy to get side-tracked from some of the essentials you’ll need to arrange first. Even if you are planning for a trip that is many months away, preparing in advance is advisable.
- Keep an eye on the latest travel information for your destination – Situations can change at short notice, especially due to weather conditions and health guidelines. Visiting the foreign travel advice page for your destination on the Gov.UK website will give you the latest information.
- Research travel insurance before booking – It’s better to be safe than sorry whilst away, and although it isn’t mandatory, travel insurance can certainly be useful in unexpected situations. Look for travel insurance policies that cover not just cancellations and lost luggage, but also medical emergencies, especially if you plan to indulge in adventurous activities such as skiing or hiking. Compare policies and choose one that matches your requirements.
- Think about how you will manage spending – These days, many banks do not need you to tell them your travel plans in advance, but it’s worth checking for peace of mind. Whilst doing so, decide whether you will need exchanged cash or whether to take a credit card with you. You may instead want to look into travel money cards that can offer favourable rates and fewer transaction fees as an alternative.
- Book your hotel & things to do as far in advance as you can – Europe attracts millions of tourists every year, so you’ll want to ensure you don’t miss out on the most popular attractions and the accommodation you really want. If you’re visiting during peak season, booking early can often secure better rates and avoid disappointment, rather than finding things are fully booked when left nearer to the time.
Once you’ve got a few of the essential parts of your trip planning sorted, as well as checking your passport and Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) are still valid, you can get back to planning more exciting aspects of your trip. If you’re not familiar with the GHIC card, it is only valid in certain European countries and as travel insurance provider Staysure explains, the GHIC does not cover you for rescue or repatriation costs, so you will still need travel insurance for peace of mind.
Northern Europe’s Gems
Heading North, you’ll find plenty of breathtaking natural landscapes to enjoy. In Sweden, Stockholm’s picturesque archipelago consisting of 30,000 islands invites you to explore as many as you can, each with its unique charm. In the city itself, you’ll find highlights such as the colourful Gamla Stan or Old Town, as well as the 18th Century Royal Palace.
Neighbouring Norway is renowned for its dramatic fjords, which offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. You can take a cruise through the fjords such as The Geirangerfjord where you’ll find waterfalls and steep, green cliffs. Oslo, the capital, offers plenty of cultural highlights such as The Fram Museum, where you’ll find the strongest wooden ship ever built, and Askerhus Fortress, the city’s medieval castle.
Eastern Europe’s Hidden Treasures
Next, we have Eastern Europe, a region of both historical significance and striking landscapes. Prague, the Czech Republic’s capital, is a fairy-tale like city with its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Prague Castle and the Old Town, where you can take in the astronomical clock and main square.
Across to Hungary, and a visit to Budapest provides plenty to do. The Danube River which splits the city can be cruised along for great views, with highlights on both sides including the historic Buda Castle and the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Europe’s largest natural hot spring spa.
Southern Europe’s Warm Escapes
Lastly, if heading to Southern Europe, Italy and Greece are both essential destinations that promise plenty of warm weather. From Rome’s ancient ruins, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican, to the romantic canals of Venice and the artistic heritage of Florence, Italy has more than you can manage in just one trip. The Amalfi Coast, with its stunning seaside views and pretty villages, are another highlight for a relaxing break.
Over to Greece and its many islands, you’ll find equally many great experiences. The Acropolis in Athens is a must-visit for its historical significance while island-hopping in the Cyclades is on many people’s bucket lists, where you can enjoy the beauty of white-washed houses and rich blue seas. Santorini is just one of the highlights, whilst Crete’s rich culture, including the Palace of Knossos, is always well worth the longer flight time.
Where Will You Visit Next?
The above is just a snapshot of destinations to consider on your next trip, with an endless list of experiences throughout Europe to discover and explore. Whether you only have time to see one country or can fit in an expansive travel itinerary, you’re sure to create memories to last a lifetime exploring Europe at any time of year.
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