Europe’s wonder shines brightest in its most natural locations. With over 350 national parks scattered throughout the continent, there’s plenty of wonders to take in during your next trip. From Spain to Finland, Denmark to Greece and everywhere in between, you’ll find national parks featuring unique terrains, breathtaking views and endless activities. One thing is certain: outdoor adventure abounds at each and every European park.
Every European country has natural treasures to explore, but where to begin and what to do? From iconic natural formations to national and regional parks, an ecotourism vacation provides the chance to experience natural settings, observe unique wildlife and support conservation efforts.
Even if you’ve never climbed a mountain in your life, there are peaks all over Europe that are quite accessible to avid climbers and flat-landers alike. Simply pack your love of the outdoors, a sense of adventure and your hiking boots, and you’ll be ready to make your way to the top of the continent.
Dive into history through Europe’s diverse, religious heritage—and the architecture, art and culture it brought into the world
With a past as storied as Europe’s, it’s impossible not to take in some history while on your trip, especially when every other pub or church seems to be older than some countries. Get your fix of some of the oldest and most spectacular archaeological sites in Europe.
Trek through the Bulgarian outdoors to connect with nature, build serenity, and clear your mind.
Surva, the International Festival of the Masquerade Games held in the town of Pernik is the biggest event of this type not only in Bulgaria but on the Balkan Peninsula as well
Ιntroduced in 1985 with the noble aim of bringing our continent closer together, the European Capital of Culture scheme offered few early surprises.
The festival was first held in 1984. It lasts for 10 days, during which time visitors may enjoy over 70 events – plays, open-air concerts, chamber music, jazz concerts, and films. The art gallery in Sozopol’s Old Town organizes exhibits and literary evenings as part of the festival.
The International Jazz Festival in Bansko is the oldest festival of its kind in Bulgaria. Traditionally, styles and groups presenting the diversity of various directions in the genre participate in the program. Unforgettable concerts by great names on the global jazz scene – the saxophonists Scott Hamilton, Candy Dulfer, Igor Butman, Charlez Papazov, Benny Golson, the guitarists Philip Catherine with his band, Steve Hackett with the Hungarian band Jabe and many others, have been conducted.
How architecture and contrasts changed Europe’s cities.
Discovering Europe’s creative hotspots. A selection of trendsetting venues, innovative concepts, and the freshest ingredients to inspire your visit to Europe.
There’s more to shopping in Europe than the designer brands on Champs-Élysées.
Whether you aim for Olympic speed or gentle slopes, here is a list of the coolest and lesser-ridden ski resorts in Europe, which are waiting for you.
Europe’s beaches are rated amongst the world’s best for a variety of reasons: their stunning scenery, their unique nature and their lively entertainment offerings. Here is a selection of some of the most unique spots Europe’s coastline has to offer.
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 is a very bike-friendly continent, both in the cities and out in the countryside. Turn your sightseeing into exercise and cover more ground on Europe’s great bike paths.
Food is an important part of any vacation. Trying native cuisine is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. In Europe, the local flavor comes in all shapes and sizes. From sausage in Germany to paella in Spain, you can introduce yourself to every taste under the sun. But some dishes have a little more to savor than others – especially when it comes to vegan and vegetarian treats. Treat yourself to some of the finest vegetarian delicacies on your next trip.
Christianity has changed over the centuries. Europe has been at the crux of that change. Rome is the heart of the Catholic Church. Germany is the birthplace of the Reformation. Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania monasteries have been greatly influenced by Orthodox Christianity. From the underground religious practices during the Roman Empire to the modern acceptance of all types of faith, Christianity has evolved in Europe, and is worth exploring today more than ever.
Europe is a treat in more ways than one, and the local confections make it all the sweeter. You may already know about Belgian chocolate and Italian gelato. But that’s just the start of the sweet treats found in Europe. Let your taste buds travel the continent with these 12 sweet treats.
Europe holds many impressive cathedrals, synagogues and mosques. These houses of worship hold important cultural, historic and religious significance. Many of these great buildings took centuries to build with ornate design and unique architecture.
Wine has influenced the culture of Europe for centuries. Dating back to 1600 BC, the Romans spread wine grapes throughout Europe and quickly became skilled at classifying grape varieties and colors, observing characteristics, and building fertilization techniques. By the first century AD, wine was being exported from Italy to Spain, Germany, England and France. The world’s oldest operating winery, the Château de Goulaine in France, is still open to visitors today and was a reason the country and its surrounding area quickly dominated the world wine market.
Searching for the perfect beach can be a difficult task, especially in an area you are not familiar with. However, in Europe, you’ll know you’ve found the ideal surf and sand thanks to an iconic marker – a blue flag. Europe’s Blue Flag Beaches meet strict standards for water quality, safety and eco-friendliness, making them the ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and playing. Luckily for travelers, there are over 4,000 beaches that have achieved Blue Flag status in the world – and Europe has a large majority of them.
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.
