Religious and Pilgrimage Destinations
How architecture and contrasts changed Europe’s cities.
In 1987, the Council of Europe established the first Cultural Route of the Council of Europe, which is now one of 47 fascinating trails. These carefully constructed sightseeing itineraries encourage travelers to discover the richness and diversity of European heritage through transnational cultural routes. Since the first route was inaugurated over 35 years ago, the “Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe” label has come to represent Europe’s most culturally rich, thoughtfully designed historical routes. Known worldwide, these Routes are a model for intercultural dialogue, local development, and sustainable cultural tourism. We invite you to begin your journey and explore all the cultural routes in Europe!
Stefano DOMINIONI
Executive Secretary of the Enlarged Partial Agreement on Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe and Director of the European Institute of Cultural Routes
The first Cultural Route to be inaugurated in 1987, the Camino de Santiago, symbolizes the principles of the Council of Europe: the freedom to come and go, solidarity, and community. Reflecting more than 1000 years of European history, the Camino de Santiago is pilgrims’ path to the Cathedral of Compostela. According to legend, the purpose is to reach the remains of Saint James, Apostle of Christ. Following the Saint James Way is not only a walk but an internal journey of reflection and overcoming that is impossible to ignore.
The Hanseatic League began as a network of merchants and developed into a powerful association of cities in medieval Europe. Today, the Hanseatic cities fascinate visitors with their diversity of place, atmosphere, architecture and wide range of events. Looking for an active holiday, cultural experiences or a relaxing getaway? The Hansa has something for everyone!
Mark your calendar: culture lovers will delight in the 45th International Hanseatic Day, taking place June 5-8, 2025, in the UNESCO-listed town of Visby, Sweden. This is a heritage festival not to be missed!
Follow the Vikings includes approximately 60 Viking-related attractions to visit in the Nordic countries, Britain, Ireland, Poland, the Baltic states, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and one in the USA. Attractions include reconstructed Viking villages with staff in Viking dress demonstrating the way of life in the Viking Age; museums exhibiting objects from the Viking Age; and series of burial mounds, fortifications and other outdoor remains.
The Via Francigena is a medieval path from the 8th century AD spanning 3200 km from Canterbury, UK, to Rome and Santa Maria di Leuca, Italy, via France and Switzerland. Managed by the European Association of the Via Francigena Ways, the route offers walking and cycling experiences among castles, churches, vineyards and olive groves, from the North of Europe to harbors on the Mediterranean Sea. Enter Via Francigena’s annual photo contest with your best shots!
The Iter Vitis Cultural Route winds through 25 countries to celebrate the vine and its millenary history. Winemaking methods in Europe result from long traditions that cross every geographical border and lead to many discoveries. How many intriguing destinations that change with every season will you find? Look forward to discovering both tangible and intangible heritage of extraordinary charm along the way.
More than 160 Prehistoric Rock Art destinations (caves, rock shelters, petroglyphs, megalithic monuments, museums, interpretation centers, cultural and archaeological parks) make up the Cultural Route Prehistoric Rock Art Trails. These highly visited sites grow in popularity every year. Good to know: with few exceptions, all the Rock Art destinations are in rural areas with awesome scenery near well-preserved natural areas.
Dive into the legacy of Charles V on the Routes of Emperor Charles V, a network that brings together almost 90 cities and historical sites in 13 countries in Europe, Africa & Latin-America about the man and the times in which he lived. Follow itineraries that Charles V traveled from 1517 to 1557, and take advantage of an extensive work cultural and sustainable tourist programs and the Touristic Product Club.
The Impressionisms Routes in Europe network creates links across the continent between the sites that inspired European impressionists and plein air painters from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century. Visit the places where they lived, founded artists’ colonies, and the cities whose museums and cultural spaces present their works today.
The Alvar Aalto Route – 20th Century Architecture and Design links the sites of Alvar Aalto, a mastermind of modern architecture. From Finland across Europe, the route is a fascinating journey to architectural landmarks. Step into spaces where design, nature, and human spirit come together as one. Visit Alvar Aalto offers package tours, travel programs and tips for visitors to experience Aalto’s heritage and local specialties.
The Historic Cafés Route offers unique examples of material and intangible heritage in communities where cafés have managed to keep local identity and social memory alive over several generations. You can feel the lives lived and absorbed by these places over many years, where sitting and drinking a coffee, reading a newspaper or a book are pleasures today as well. Pause at a historic café for a prime opportunity to witness the authentic, genuine soul of the cities. Part of each country’s history, heritage, traditions and identity, this legacy is a deeply held European value.
How architecture and contrasts changed Europe’s cities.
Europe has been around for a long time. That’s why some of its most celebrated buildings are some of the oldest. But newer, more modern buildings can also be found. From Italy to Denmark, modern architecture has found its way into Europe’s heart. Browse this gallery to see some of the newest architectural marvels found throughout Europe.
Some of Europe’s most historic sites are sports stadiums. From gladiators battling in the Colosseum to the world’s best footballers competing in Camp Nou, stadiums have long had their place of prominence in European lifestyle. Explore 10 of the most historic sporting sites throughout the years with this photo gallery.
Music is at the heart of every country, city and person in Europe. But the type of music you’ll find during a trip to Europe can vary dramatically. From modern rock festivals to classic opera performances, you’re sure to see and hear a wide range of performances. Browse this gallery for a taste of some of Europe’s most interesting music scenes.
Speck Alto Adige PGI, the unique smoked ham of Italy´s southern Alps, іs а dry-cured, lightly smoked ham produced іn South Tyrol, northern Italy. Parts оf іts production аre regulated by the European Union under the protected geographical indication (PGI) status.
Romantic mountain railways or luxury glamping.
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