Historical travel itineraries in Europe

by Cultural routes of the Council of Europe

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European Route of Historic Gardens

The European Route of Historic Gardens (ERHG) is a non-profit association founded in 2016, uniting European historic gardens and institutions to preserve and promote the heritage of historic gardens. Committed to Europe’s green legacy, ERHG develops educational, cultural, and tourism content to support heritage preservation, encourage cultural exchanges, and promote sustainable tourism.

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Liberation Route Europe

The Liberation Route Europe connects people, places, and events to commemorate Europe’s liberation from occupation during World War II. This route offers a journey through the history of the war and its lasting impact, highlighting key moments from 1943 to 1945 as the Allied Forces advanced across Europe. Spanning nine European countries, the route features hundreds of sites and stories.

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European Route of Historic Pharmacies and Medicinal Gardens

Explore Europe through historic pharmacies and medicinal gardens: discover the art, science, and history of medicine on a route that connects remote destinations with renowned cities, revealing them in a new light.

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Iron Route in the Pyrenees

The Iron Route in the Pyrenees highlights the region’s rich steelmaking tradition, which has shaped urban and rural landscapes for centuries. Discover the historic mines, forges, and cultural sites that showcase the profound influence of iron production on local communities.

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The routes of Charles V

The Routes of Charles V offer a unique cultural and touristic journey centered around the legacy of Emperor Charles V. This network connects over 80 cities and historic sites across Europe, Africa, and America, each of which played a significant role during the 16th century under the emperor’s influence.

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EuroVelo 13 – Iron Curtain Trail

EuroVelo 13 – The Iron Curtain Trail takes cyclists on a historic journey along the path of the former Iron Curtain, which divided East and West Europe for nearly 50 years during the 20th century. Spanning over 10,500 km and crossing 20 countries, this cycling route serves as a living history lesson and a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and reconciliation.

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The Hansa

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 45^th 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!

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Follow the Vikings

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.

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Iter Vitis

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.

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Prehistoric Rock Art Trails

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.

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Destination Napoleon

Discover how Napoleon Bonaparte and his era helped shape modern Europe on the Destination Napoleon cultural route. This heritage trail spans over 50 historic cities, museums, villas, gardens, libraries, and archives across 12 European countries.