6 Stunning Palaces in Europe
Explore some of the grandest of Europe’s palaces in this breathtaking photo gallery.
Whether you aim for Olympic speed or gentle slopes, here is a list of the coolest and lesser-ridden ski resorts in Europe, which are waiting for you.
Interactive Map
© Michal K
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Kitzbühel in Tyrol, Austria
If adventure is what you’re looking for, kitzbühel, in the region of Tyrol, hosts one of the most thrilling races on the International Ski Federation (FIS) Alpine Ski World Cup circuit! It is also known for its extensive and varied slopes, a vibrant night life and a beautiful medieval town.
© Mikhail Varentsov
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Levi in Finnish Lapland, Finland
Located in the Finnish Lapland, Levi is the largest ski resort in Finland. Make sure to pack your warmest clothes, as temperatures can go down to -30 degrees Celsius. It hosts a slalom on the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit every year, and if you’re lucky you can even catch the famous Northern Lights!
© ventdusud
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Val d’Isère, Savoie, France
Val d’isère is one of the top celebrity haunts in the world of skiing. Located in the Savoie region, it’s linked to tignes, another trendy resort that has the most extensive glacier skiing in France.
© Roberto Caucino
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Cervinia in Valle D’Aosta, Switzerland
To find some of the biggest and highest well-groomed ski pistes, head for Cervinia in the Valle d’Aosta region. It has some of the longest runs stretching through three valleys and comprising two countries: Italy and Switzerland.
© Tipwam
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Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria, Germany
In the Southern region of Bavaria lies Garmisch-Partenkirchen, former venue for the Winter Olympics. It is famous for its downhill ski runs, amazing hiking trails, death-defying ski jumping and perfect conditions for whitewater kayaking.
© Bimserd
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Formigal in Aragon, Spain
With almost 140 km of skiing area, Formigal is popular among families and beginner-intermediate skiers. But the resort, located in the Aragon Pyrenees, can also please advanced skiers who are looking for new off-piste challenges.
© Lucky Business
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Bansko in Pirin Mountains, Bulgaria
Bansko, in the Pirin Mountains, offers the longest ski runs in Bulgaria. It’s cheap, has a great snow record and a long ski season (from December to May). It is also home to cozy traditional taverns called ‘mehanas,’ where you can eat, hear folk music and sit by the fire.
© Roman Babakin
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Zakopane in Tatra Mountains, Poland
Zakopane is perfect for beginners. If you look forward to skiing or snowboarding, this ski resort, located in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, offers you lower prices than the Alps, wonderful landscapes and authentic Polish cuisine.
© Mpaniti
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Jasna-Chopok in Tatra Mountains, Slovakia
Jasná-chopok is the main resort in Slovakia, with 45 km of well-groomed, tree-lined ski runs. Located in the Tatra Mountains, it is suitable for beginners, intermediates or advanced skiers.
© Ramona Georgescu
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Poiana Braşov in Carpathian mountains, Romania
Located in the Carpathian Mountains, in the region of Transylvania, Poiana Braşov has gentle slopes perfect for beginners and a lively nightlife. Not far away, in Bran, you can even visit Dracula’s castle, which owes its fame to its imposing towers and turrets as well as to the myth created around Bram Stocker’s famous character, Dracula.
Galleries
10 Must-See UNESCO Sites in Europe
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place that has been awarded as having cultural or environmental importance. Luckily, Europe has plenty of UNESCO sites to explore. From ancient castles to quaint seaside towns, you’ll find natural and cultural beauty everywhere you go. Consider this gallery your guide to some of the best UNESCO sites in Europe to discover on your next trip.
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.
The Amazing Monasteries and Abbeys of Europe
Some of Europe’s oldest and most iconic places are in its humblest buildings. Monasteries and abbeys are sprinkled throughout the countries and make for a somber and unforgettable experience. From ancient abbeys in Italy to majestic monasteries in Austria, browse this gallery for a better look at them all.
Featured Experiences
Estonia’s surprising wines
A wine-making tradition with a twist.
Eggplant Salad
This aubergine salad is served as a starter along with crust bread and various other ‘salate’ or on the table for a late summer barbeque. It can easily be made well in advance and make plenty, because it’s also extremely delicious just on its own for a lunchtime snack, and all the better with some crispy grilled ‘lipia’ bread (a kind of round thin bread, something like a flatbread or pitta). What’s more, it’s simple to make!
Germany by foot and bike
Eco-adventures from the Alps to the coast.
Malta: The hidden must-visit wine destination
From grape to glass.
Stoemp
Stoemp is a typical and simple Brussels dish, which you have to try when spending time in the Flemish capital. It consists of pureed potatoes one or several mashed vegetables, sometimes also with bacon. These vegetable pairings traditionally include endive, kale, Brussels sprouts, spinach, turnip greens, carrot or onion. Stoemp is usually served with sausage or stewed meat.
A cup of coffee in Slovenia
Try top spots and experiences for coffee lovers.
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Celtic Knots of Intrigue
The mystery of the Celtic people continues to entice people to visit the ancient sites and ponder the meaning of what’s been left behind. You can explore well-known passage graves and monastic settlements of Ireland and Scotland to catch a glimpse into the sacred and storied Celts, but you can also find their mark on a number of other places throughout Europe that are just as fascinating.