6 Stunning Palaces in Europe
Explore some of the grandest of Europe’s palaces in this breathtaking photo gallery.
There’s so much more to Europe than just the big cities and landmarks. Go off the beaten track and discover some of Europe’s lesser-known cities, hidden towns and secret villages that are rich in natural beauty and history.
Interactive Map
© ORT Région Moselle Luxembourgeoise / ONT
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Grevenmacher, Luxembourg
Grevenmacher is a picturesque town on the bank of the Moselle river, just across from Germany. It has an old-world feel with its 13th century belfry and medieval battlements, but it’s best known for its wineries.
© Peuky Barone-Wagener / ONT
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Echternach, Luxembourg
Founded as an abbey in 698 AD by St. Willibrord, Echternach is still surrounded by its medieval walls and towers. Though the original abbey burned down, the Basilica of Echternach seen here was built in 1737 and still houses the remains of St. Willibrord.
© Visit Estonia
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Tartu, Estonia
Home to Estonia’s oldest university, Tartu is an intellectual hub of eastern Europe. It has an eclectic-yet-charming mix of architecture due to its sovereignty changing hands throughout the years.
© NTO Roamnia
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Sibiu, Romania
Named a Capital of Culture in 2007 by the European Union, Sibiu is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Romania. Walk down the historic Stairs Passage that links the two sides of the city.
© Gadag
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Kuressaare, Estonia
The westernmost town in Estonia, Kuressaare on Saaremaa island retains its medieval charm, with Kuressaare Castle as its centerpoint.
© Shutterstock
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Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor has rapidly become a popular destination for visitors on cruise ships. The region of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with much of the medieval city still preserved.
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Pécs, Hungary
The area now occupied by Pécs has been occupied since ancient times, and has remainders from Roman, medieval and Ottoman periods. It’s varied architecture and historical sites make it a must-visit.
© Milan Gonda
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Kosice, Slovakia
The European Capital of Culture in 2013 , Kosice is home to many well preserved Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings. The gothic cathedral of St. Elisabeth Cathedral , one of the major landmarks in Kosice, dates back to 1230.
© Nickolay Stanev
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Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Nicknamed “City of the Tsars,” Veliko Tarnovo was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. It’s known for its impressive renaissance churches and other historical buildings and landmarks.
© canadastock
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Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt existed as a settlement some several thousand years ago as an area for salt production. Today it’s an idyllic lakeside village.
© Konstantin Aksenov
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Marsaxlokk, Malta
A traditional fishing village on the Mediterranean island of Malta, one of Marsaxlokk’s major attractions is its fresh fish market. Grab a bite to eat straight from the sea.
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Kaunas, Lithuania
Nestled between the Neris and Nemunas rivers, Kaunas is one of the most scenic cities in Lithuania. Its old town is home to some stunning Gothic and Renaissance-style architecture.
© Baciu
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Niš, Serbia
Established by the Scordisci people in 279 BC and with evidence for neolithic settlements as far back as 2,000 BC, Niš is one of the oldest cities in the Balkans. Not much remains from those days, but churches and other historic buildings still stand from as far back as the 4th century.
Galleries
The Best Rural Getaways in Europe
Sometimes the best way to experience Europe is by taking the road less traveled. Or in some cases, not taking a road at all. The natural side of Europe consists of vast countrysides, towering mountains, calm waterways and more. Browse this gallery of some of Europe’s best adventures that are off the beaten trail. Then, load up your backpack and be on your way.
Exploring Europe’s Hidden Towns
There’s so much more to Europe than just the big cities and landmarks. Go off the beaten track and discover some of Europe’s lesser-known cities, hidden towns and secret villages that are rich in natural beauty and history.
Europe – Come Join The Festivities!
One of the best ways to witness the diversity of Europe is to participate in one of the many festivals – be it celebrating a saint, food , film or even the circus.
Featured Experiences
Spain’s coolest neighborhoods
An alternative approach to exploring the country!
Turkish Delight from Antep / Gaziantep
This Turkish delight is made of layers of filo pastry, Antep pistachio and syrup, and it requires great skill in production. ‘Antep Baklavasi’/‘Gaziantep Baklavasi’ is characterized by a dense taste and a unique aroma that comes from the pistachio and the butter, two of its main ingredients. If it is well prepared, it will immediately melt in the mouth.
Savour the Catch of the Day
From fresh Atlantic cod to giant king crab, Europe has an amazing selection of seafood. Explore the regional cuisine of traditional plates from around the coasts of Europe. Find the freshest seafood at a fishing village market or in a five-star restaurant. Head onto the waters with a guide and catch your own fish and learn how to prepare it. Whether it’s caught in the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean or the North Sea, European seafood is a treat.
Ireland’s most imaginative places
Get creative in Ireland’s cities.
Explore Europe Through Your Taste Buds
Discovering Europe’s creative hotspots. A selection of trendsetting venues, innovative concepts, and the freshest ingredients to inspire your visit to Europe.
Studying Abroad in Europe
When you travel to Europe, it’s not just about enjoying the sights and sounds. It’s about immersing yourself in the culture to get even more out of your trip. That means jumping in head first to education experiences that you might not do otherwise. Whether you’re studying abroad in Europe for school or on a month-long sabbatical from everyday life, enjoy a wide range of experiences to truly enjoy European culture.
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