State of the Art
Admire the works of da Vinci, Rembrandt and Klimt firsthand at some of the finest classical art museums in the world.
How architecture and contrasts changed Europe’s cities.
Interactive Map
© Detelina Petkova
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Bulgaria: A hermit’s mountain retreat
Surrounded by the green mountains of Rila, Bulgaria, a colourful monastery blends seamlessly with the landscape. Its Balkan architectural style will certainly catch your eye, but it is in the story behind its foundation that you will find clues to Bulgaria’s gripping past. Located on the highest Balkan Peninsula Mountain, the Rila monastery was founded in the 10th century (between 927-968) by St John of Rila, an Orthodox hermit, who chose to live in isolated caves.
© Slovak Tourist Board/Laco Struhar
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Slovakia: Made out of wood
There was a time when Slovakia had more than 300 wooden churches. Built in harmony with nature, all parts of the church had to be made of wood using exquisite joinery skills. Indeed, nails had to remain unused inside the master craftsmen’s toolboxes. Behind this story, lies a search for beautiful simplicity. Around 50 of these wooden churches remain, mainly in the Carpathian Mountains region. These sacred places offer a glimpse into original architectural methods and cultural influences.
© Ezequiel Scagnetti European Union
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The Netherlands: ‘A direct line to heaven’
On a visit to Den Bosch, you’ll be greeted by a little angel statue, wearing jeans, with a laptop bag over the shoulder and a mobile phone in hand. There is only one button on the angel’s mobile phone and, according to the artist, it is used as ‘a direct line to heaven’.Visiting the Cathedral may take you back through the ages to ancient times, but do not assume the journey is always about the past. Damaged by many fires, the Cathedral has been renovated several times.
© Mary416
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Denmark: A tale of kings and queens
This is the first gothic cathedral built in red brick between the 12th & 13th centuries in Roskilde, and became the main burial site for Danish monarchs. Around 3 million bricks were needed to build the impressive structure that visitors can see here today. Inside, you will find several burial chambers and chapels that have been added throughout the years, with hundreds of flagstones lining the cathedral floor marking the identities of its occupants.
© Ezequiel Scagnetti European Union
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Finland: Rebuilding a monastery
In 1939, a military conflict between Finland and Russia forced around 190 monks living in the Valamo monastery, Lake Ladoga, Russian Federation, to be evacuated as forces advanced. Soldiers appropriated the building and the monks soon found a new home: Heinävesi in Eastern Finland. They settled down in the current location in 1940, creating the New Valamo Monastery, which became an active centre of Orthodox religious life and culture.
© Ezequiel Scagnetti European Union
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Ireland: The view from the top
Climbing a mountain can be an act of faith. Leaving everything behind, aiming only for the top. Visitors wishing to get away from the crowds and embrace a moment of solitude might consider heading for Croagh Patrick, Ireland. Located in County Mayo, in the west of the country, Croagh Patrick is considered one of the holiest mountains in Ireland, with its pilgrimage tradition stretching back over 5 000 years to the Stone Age.
© Sergey Dzyuba
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France: Lourdes, a place of healing and reconciliation
Lourdes, in south-western France, will always be remembered as the place where the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernardette Soubirou, a 14-year-old girl in 1858. . This was the first of eighteen apparitions that would later turn Lourdes into the most well-known pilgrimage destination in France. At the time, scepticism about Bernadette’s visions was evident, but she would eventually be beatified by the Catholic Church in 1927.
© Ratikova
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Latvia: From wood to stone
The Aglona basilica was assembled by Dominican monks between 1768 and 1780. In the middle of a warm European summer, visitors can always get away from the big cities and experience faith, tales and legends in Aglona.
Galleries
9 Unforgettable Cliff Views in Europe
Europe’s vast landscapes create some breathtaking views. And some of the most awe-inspiring views in Europe occur where cliffs meet the water. From Ireland to Greece, picture-perfect spots can be found tucked away from everything else. Enjoy eight of the best European views right here in this photo gallery. Then, see them for yourself on your next trip.
Beyond Merry-Go-Rounds
Push your limits at Europe’s most exhilarating and unusual theme parks!
Historical Thermal Towns
Arriving in one of our historic thermal towns, maybe by train, to immerse yourself in the spa culture of Europe is the perfect way to start your “thermal travels” habit. Whether you seek relaxation and wellness or some world-class cultural or sporting events, you will not be disappointed!
Featured Experiences
Made in Europe
Some of the most luxurious items in the world, from Rolls Royce to Rolex can trace their beginnings to Europe. Many of these brands have enticed shoppers for generations and show no signs of going out of style. From top-of-the-line automobiles to hand-crafted jewelry and every knick-knack in between, discover Europe’s finest products firsthand.
Love on a Bicycle
Are you and the love of your life in need of some time together, sharing great experiences? ‘Love on a bicycle’ is a romantic mini-break in one of the most cultural and scenic parts of Denmark. Stay at the beautiful seaside hotels, hostels and Bed & Breakfasts, where you are gently woken by the sea air, and cycle to the local farm shops producing everything from grapes in bottles to chocolates in boxes. In Royal North Zealand, you have the peace and quiet you need to rediscover one another, and as the many experiences are linked by short bike rides, we guarantee romance, rosy cheeks, and big smiles!
Iconic Landmarks, New Experiences
When you think of Europe, famous places come to mind. Places like the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa have all established themselves as the most iconic landmarks in not only Europe but also throughout the world. They have attracted worldly visitors for generations, and for good reason. But while these must-see landmarks in Europe have remained the same throughout the years, new amenities are added to make your visit even more enjoyable than ever before.
A People on the Move
In spite of a turbulent history, the remarkable legacy of the Jewish faith is readily found all over Europe. Whether you practice Judaism or not, there is much to discover and enjoy in Europe’s many Jewish heritage sites.
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Polish Potato Dumplings
The specialities of regional cuisine are something not to be missed while travelling around Poland. They are extremly diverse due to different agricultural conditions, customs and traditions.These potato dumplings -Kluski Śląskie in Polish originally come from the region of Silesia but nowadays it is very popular across the country.
Experience Latvian spa culture
Get to know traditional wellness rituals!
Island-hopping in Croatia
Unforgettable summer experiences.