Shopping off the Beaten Track
There’s more to shopping in Europe than the designer brands on Champs-Élysées.
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.
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© thisisboss
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Kunsthaus Graz
Kunsthaus Graz in Austria is a fairly new building dedicated to contemporary art. The building’s façade is covered with giant pixels that light up in the night sky. Inside, art galleries celebrate new works of photography, film, design and even Internet art.
© Joey Zanotti
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Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris
The Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris was built in the 1970s and was well ahead of its time. The complex building is home to a public library as well as the largest museum of public art in Europe. Thousands of people visit the Centre Georges Pompidou every single day.
© Massimiliano Calamelli
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Maxxi
It took over 10 years to build but the MAXXI in Italy. The building’s unique design is a combination of sharp angles and bending lines. Inside, two brand-new museums are available to the public: MAXXI art and MAXXI architecture.
© seanbjack
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30 St Mary Axe , London
30 St Mary Axe in London’s financial district is known more informally as The Gherkin. It rises over 40 stories with much of the exterior walls being glass. While it’s a commercially used building, the top floor can be rented out for private events.
© Turespaña
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Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is located in along the Nervión River in Spain. It was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and constructed in 1997. This contemporary museum is known for its use of materials like titanium and limestone.
© Eirik Oestbakken / visitnorway.com
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Oslo Opera House
The Oslo Opera House in Norway is one of Europe’s most prized performance buildings. It was built in 2007 and boasts a gorgeous horseshoe auditorium, window-clad lobby and even a skateboard-friendly exterior. When it’s not hosting a performance, you’ll find art galleries on display inside.
© Visit Iceland
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Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik, Iceland
Harpa is the prized music hall of Iceland and can be found in Reykjavik Harbour. The design of the building includes a complex collection of glass, lights and concrete. While it’s beautiful on the outside, it all makes for ideal acoustics in the concert halls inside.
© News Oresund
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Black Diamond, Copenhagen
Located in the heart of Copenhagen, The Royal Library has become one of Denmark’s best architectural achievements. The library’s new home known as The Black Diamond and is made from a special type of black granite. Inside you’ll find two museums, concert performances, restaurants and more.
Galleries
Europe’s Most Unique Places to Stay
Europe is unique in every way. So, it’s no coincidence that it offers some of the most unique lodging options in the world. Whether you’re backpacking through Spain or you’re a spending a month in Norway for school, you’re sure to find an unforgettable place to sleep at night. Consider this gallery your guide to some of the most unique places to stay in Europe.
8 Must-See European Factory Tours
When it’s made in Europe, it’s usually something special. From world-renowned beers to luxury automobiles, Europe has a knack for handcrafting greatness. Get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the factories and museums you can tour while in Europe.
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!
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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.
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Feta
Feta is Greek’s main cheese being made since ancient times. It is produced from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk, where goat’s milk cannot exceed more than 30% of the total product. This cheese is characterised by its white colour, lightly acidic flavour and rich aroma.
Taste in Gruczno
The Festival of Taste in Gruczno is one of the most important culinary events in Northern Poland. Many people make a pilgrimage there each year to learn local varieties of honey, cold cuts, tinctures or jams. This is demonstrated by the festival guests, who are gourmets from all over the country, fans, often restaurateurs and culinary journalists. It is the only event of this magnitude in Poland that is recommended by Slow Food, a prestigious international organisation dedicated to the protection of cultural tastes.