UNESCO World Heritage Sites
With a past as storied as Europe’s, it’s impossible not to take in some history while on your trip. Find out more about UNESCO World Heritage Site in the European territory.
Europe is a magical place. From ancient castles to picturesque waterfalls, much of the scenery looks like it could be straight out of a fairytale. In fact, much of Europe’s best literature, collections of short stories and iconic European fairytales are inspired by real places. Explore them for yourself to turn the stories of folklore into your reality.
Interactive Map
© NTO Germany
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Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the newest and most famous castles in Europe. It’s been opened to the public for over 100 years and continues to draw visitors from around the world. See the famous castle for yourself on your next trip to Germany.
© Visit Finland
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Finland’s Winter Wonderland
It’s just about the closest you can get to the North Pole, which is why Finland is known for its beautifully frozen landscapes. Visit during Christmas time to ride on Santa’s sleigh and meet all of his friendly reindeer.
© Marco Guidi
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Guaita Tower, San Marino
The towers of San Marino are some of the oldest landmarks in Europe. Visit Guaita, the oldest and most famous of the three towers to experience 11th century Europe at its best. Visit during the month of July to experience all the flag-waving and street-parading fun of Medieval Days. See reenactments of medieval life and culture right on the grounds of the tower.
© Polish Tourist Organisation
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Knights of Malbork Castle, Poland
Poland’s Malbork Castle is home to more than drawbridges and stone walls. See the castle come alive as medieval reenactments complete with knights and guards bring even more wonder to an already wonderful place. Just be ready to participate in the medieval fun!
© NTO Latvia
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The Lawns of Rundale Palace, Latvia
The Rundale Palace in Latvia is one of the most beautifully well-maintained places in Europe. Its intricate lawns and astonishing design makes it one of Latvia’s most popular tourist destinations. Admire the age-old beauty on your next trip to Latvia.
© Aéroplume / ONT
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Bourscheid Castle, Luxembourg
Dating back to the year 1000, Bourscheid Castle is ancient Luxembourg at its best. Put on your best king or queen act as you tour through this mountainside castle in the village of Bourscheid. It’s an adventure over 1000 years in the making!
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Fisherman’s Bastion, Hungary
Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest features some of the most magical architecture you’ll ever see. The towers once served as a fortification to keep people out of the villages below but now acts as a sanctuary for curious travelers to Budapest.
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Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe in Germany
Castles aren’t the only place to visit in Europe to live out your fairytales. Germany is home to an abundance of countrysides, waterfalls and scenic forests that are straight out of classic folktales, like this one in Kassel’s Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe
© OPT - Joseph Jeanmart
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Bouillon Castle, Belgium
Complete with secret underground tunnels, panoramic views and the nearby Waterfall Lake, the Bouillon Castle in Belgium would make the perfect setting for a fairytale. Walk through it and listen to all of the fabled stories behind the history of the famous castle.
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Hunyadi Castle, Romania
Hunyadi Castle is located in Romania and is the epitome of what would make an ideal setting for a Romanian fairytale. It is sometimes mentioned as a source of inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula and legend says it was once inhabited by Vlad the Impaler.
© NTO Serbia
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Decebalus, Serbia
The rock sculpture of Decebalus in Serbia towers 40 meters high along the Danube, making it the tallest one in Europe. See the epic rock formation starting from Serbia to Romania as you travel along the river by boat.
© Turismo de Lisboa
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Pena Palace, Portugal
Sintra’s Pena Palace in Portugal skies over the rest of the countryside, making it one of the most picturesque places in the entire country. Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site to see the best architecture, furnishings and charm of the Romantic era.
Galleries
Your Guide to Late-Night Fun in Europe
Some of life’s best adventures happen when the sun goes down. And it’s no different in Europe. From dancing the night away in Barcelona to walking under the moonlight in Paris, each city offers its own nightlife excitement. Browse this gallery before your next European escapade to see which city’s nightlife is best for you.
Europe’s Sparkling Inland Waters
Although Europe may be best known for its Blue Flag Beaches, white sandy coastlines, and bustling port cities, travelers should not overlook the pristine inland waters of the vast continent. Europe is populated with sparkling lakes, winding rivers and jaw-dropping waterfalls just begging for tourists to dip their toes in. Book your next vacation to Europe to experience one (or more) of these nine inland waters for yourself.
6 Stunning Palaces in Europe
Explore some of the grandest of Europe’s palaces in this breathtaking photo gallery.
Featured Experiences
Coast to Coast
From the cool winds of the Atlantic to the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Europe’s coastline defines the continent in every way. It has created communities, inspired exploration, driven trade and attracted tourism, while remaining a constant source of natural wonder.
Thermal complexes in Poland
Thermal baths to cope with the autumn blues.
Eco-touring in Ireland
Immerse yourself in vibrant Irish cities.
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Slovak Easter Cheese
Hrudka is a traditional meal of Eastern Slovakia and it’s an essential part of the Easter table. Eggs were considered the symbol of life and fertility and because of that, food made of eggs was served especially during Easter (celebrated in spring), when nature wakes up after winter rest.