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.
Get your camera ready. Once you’ve laid eyes on Europe’s most charming mountain villages, you may not want to put it down. You also may not ever want to leave. These are the places that fairy tales are made of, only they happen to be real. From medieval villages in Spain to traditional timber chalets in Switzerland, to the towering mountain-side fortresses of San Marino, these small but fully functioning towns are waiting to warmly welcome visitors who appreciate their quaint style of living.
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.
Drink in the stunning landscapes, gleaming lakes, and remarkable wildlife that exist nowhere else in the world.
Europe is the home of some of classical music’s most famous maestros. Today, travelers can experience the sweeping, exhilarating and emotional sounds of the world’s well-known classical music pieces in museums, concert halls and at classical music festivals. Listen and enjoy the suites, cantatas and concertos from the masters of sound and learn about the life and times of Europe’s amazing composers.
Learning about a country through its culinary arts is one of travel’s principle pleasures. Food is a tangible reflection of geography, history, and culture; there are few more pleasurable ways to become well acquainted with a country than through its gastronomy, and each region has something unique to add to the menu.
Perugia is a place I’ll always love. It’s filled with wonderful history, unique museums, and some divine food.
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.
Europe has many famous museums that are must-see attractions, but there are lots of smaller, unexpectedly entertaining museums just waiting to be explored. Stop following the crowds and head off the beaten path to discover these lesser-known gems. They just might surprise you and become highlights on your trip to Europe.
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.
Europe has always been irresistible to shoppers, but beyond the big brands and famous streets of some of the world’s most famous cities are lesser-known districts that are inspiring a new generation of European creativity.
Modern day Europe is crossed by ancient medieval pilgrimage and trade routes, travelled by walkers and ramblers on a slow adventure, discovering castles, vineyards and olive trees, delicious food and local wines. One of the most famous routes in Europe is the Via Francigena – or the route from France how it was called in medieval Italy. Crossing Europe from Canterbury (England) to Rome (Italy), it reaches Santa Maria di Leuca on the very tip of the Italian heel. The route takes you from Northern Europe to the harbors of the Mediterranean Sea along 3200km, which are manageable in 4 months on foot. Browse the gallery to discover, region by region, some of the most beautiful places along the Via Francigena.
Could you imagine so much variety in Europe? From Finland to Azores or From Malta to Ireland, 71 destinations decided to gather to promote sustainable tourism under two words: Eden Network. The Eden Network: surprise yourself with Europe!
Cotechino with shrimp and lentils cream recipe from the European Young Chef Award 2017 was created by Davide Fiammenghi, representing East Lombary – European Region of Gastronomy 2017
Ιntroduced in 1985 with the noble aim of bringing our continent closer together, the European Capital of Culture scheme offered few early surprises.
Founded in 1977, this annual festival takes place in Polverigi and Ancona near the Adriatic Sea. This year there will be some two dozen shows, all of which will touch on themes involving identity and transformation.
The therapeutic use of hot springs has been present in Europe from ancient times to the present day, giving birth to a number of spa towns well-known for the beauty of their buildings, or long tradition of welcoming guests and the healing properties of its springs.
Typical recipe with the PGI Salmerino del Trentino, cooked in a pan with seasonal vegetables.
Recognized as one of the Traditional Italian Food Products (P.A.T.), the most famous dish of the Crema food tradition is typically prepared during the town festivals or for other important family events
One of the best parts of international travel is getting to try the local cuisine, and some of the best dishes in Europe come from the countries on the Mediterranean Sea. Starting in Spain, we’ll highlight some great entrees from all around the coast and on into Turkey.
Post-retirement is an excellent time to go see the world, as you’re less likely to have pressing engagements and can spend more time at your destination. Europe is a great option for seniors as many of the top destinations are not too far from each other cutting down on travel time, while still providing an exciting and enriching travel experience. It’s also relatively easy to find a tour group that goes to the specific destinations you want to see in Europe, and travel in comfort at the same time.
Traveling internationally with your children can be difficult for a lot of reasons, but one of the hardest aspects of planning the trip can be accounting for everyone’s tastes and interests. While spending time in museums or going to wine tastings might be your ideal vacation, those activities might not appeal to the kiddos. That doesn’t mean your trip has to revolve around your kids, but you should try to plan at least one kid-centric activity a day.
Europe’s culture is not limited to its numerous art museums and palaces. Some of Europe’s greatest stories can be heard over a glass of wine, beer or other drink within the walls of a pub or finest alcohol outlets off the beaten track.
Push your limits at Europe’s most exhilarating and unusual theme parks!
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.
Admire the works of da Vinci, Rembrandt and Klimt firsthand at some of the finest classical art museums in the world.
Almond Blossom Festival is an international folk festival based on the idea of peace, integration and cooperation between people.
A wedding is meant to be unforgettable. That’s why it needs to be in a place that’s equally unforgettable. Europe is one of the world’s most popular places for destination weddings – and for good reason. Whether you like big spectacular weddings or charming quaint ones, there’s the perfect romantic place for you in Europe.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the views. Some of Europe’s most magical natural wonders come in the form of waterfalls. From raging falls in Iceland to babbling brooks in Hungary, they come in many forms. See some of the favorite falls here before seeing them firsthand on your trip to Europe.
A festival of street food that shines the light of the old markets, a concentration of flavors, smells, colors, voices, each year overwhelms the old town of Trapani.
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.
When people think of a classically romantic honeymoon, most people think of Paris. And with good reason, Paris, France is the city of love, after all. Beyond Paris though, there are many other options for wonderfully romantic getaway in Europe.
The traditional Festa del Torrone (Nougat Festival) of Cremona is an annual 9-day event taking place in the city of Cremona, Italy, in November, where more than 150 nougat manufacturers present their delicacies from all around the world.
On the last Sunday of May, every year, the little village of Recco in Liguria (Italy) celebrates the annual Festival of the Focaccia, honoring a special focaccia with cheese, a typical Ligurian recipe.
The San Miniato National White Truffle Market; is held here every year during the last three weekends of November. It is an important, internationally recognised fair that hosts many gastronomic and cultural events.
Come and celebrate the 87th edition of the White Truffle Festival in Alba, Italy from 6th October until 25th November.
Every second Sunday of May, the Italian village of Camogli in Liguria celebrates the Fish Festival of Saint Fortunato, patron saint of fishermen.
If you have a sweet tooth, visit the annual chocolate festival in the Italian town of Perugia, which is without a doubt, a dessert lover’s paradise! Get your chocolate in the regular bar variety or try some chocolate liquor, hot chocolate, or even a chocolate kebab!
The chestnut transforms the landscape of Valle Isarco/Eisacktal in South Tyrol not only in a shining golden hiking paradise in autumn, but also in a radiating center hosting the Valle Isarco chestnut weeks with a culturally-active program.
Since 2003 the South Tyrolean Bread and Strudel Festival has been offering a vast variety of freshly baked bread and original South Tyrolean apple strudel. 20 bakeries and pastry shops offer local specialties from all areas of the region. The visitors have the opportunity to gain insight into the baking tradition of South Tyrol and to enjoy numerous delicacies made from local products in one of South Tyrol’s most beautiful squares, the cathedral square of Bressanone/Brixen.
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.
Hungry for a fulfilling cultural experience? Europe offers no shortage of delicious choices when it comes to food-centric festivals and gastronomy trails. From a bizarre city-sponsored tomato-throwing event in Buñol, Spain, to a celebration of oysters in Galway, Ireland, there is a food festival that is sure to please any palate.
A visit to Europe is unforgettable in itself, but people often find themselves dreaming about all the delicious foods they tried, long after they’ve returned. From sweet to salty and every flavor in between, fondly remember your trip when you bring home a taste of Europe.
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.
Some of life’s best adventures happen when the sun goes down. And it’s no different in Europe. From dancing the night away in Barcelona to walking under the moonlight in Paris, each city offers its own nightlife excitement. Browse this gallery before your next European escapade to see which city’s nightlife is best for you.
All European expeditions should include a trip to a museum or gallery. Luckily, they can be found almost everywhere in Europe. And a lot of them are free of charge. Consider this your guide to some of the best free museums and galleries in Europe so that you’re prepared to take in the art on your next trip.
Europe’s natural beauty and stunning landmarks haven’t just caught the eyes of world travelers over the years. They’ve also attracted filmmakers to shoot their movies at Europe’s prized locations. Browse this gallery to see some of the lesser-known movie locations in Europe. Then, explore these landscapes for yourself on your own trip to Europe (no costumes required).
Sometimes you need to see something from another perspective to understand its beauty. In Europe, every perspective hides a new discovery, even under the water. From the shores of Italy to the clearwaters of Iceland, find what’s hiding beneath the surface of Europe with this gallery.
Although Europe may be best known for its Blue Flag Beaches, white sandy coastlines, and bustling port cities, travelers should not overlook the pristine inland waters of the vast continent. Europe is populated with sparkling lakes, winding rivers and jaw-dropping waterfalls just begging for tourists to dip their toes in. Book your next vacation to Europe to experience one (or more) of these nine inland waters for yourself.
No trip to Europe is complete without dining on the best local flavors. And some of Europe’s best dishes can be found in coastal countries. From classic pasta recipes in Italy to fresh seafood in Norway, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your palate. Browse this gallery of some of Europe’s best seaside dining before you decide where to go for dinner during your trip.
Romance comes naturally in Europe. With so many things to see and do, it’s no coincidence that Europe is one of the top destinations in the world for romantic getaways. From popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower to lesser-known spots like waterfalls in Iceland, browse this gallery to prep for the best romantic sightseeing in Europe.
Some of Europe’s oldest and most iconic places are in its humblest buildings. Monasteries and abbeys are sprinkled throughout the countries and make for a somber and unforgettable experience. From ancient abbeys in Italy to majestic monasteries in Austria, browse this gallery for a better look at them all.
Romance is everywhere in Europe. But along the coast and in the small harbor towns, romance is inevitable. From seaside villages in Italy to beaches in Latvia, browse some of the most romantic coastal spots in Europe. Then, treat your sweetheart to the ultimate getaway.
For centuries some of the greatest sporting events have occurred throughout Europe’s historic stadiums, coliseums and arenas. Today, spectators come from around the globe to witness the world’s best athletes compete on these hallowed grounds. Consider this your brief guide to Europe’s best spots to watch football, tennis, cycling, rugby, racing and more.
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.
Europe is home to some of the World’s most beautiful mountain ranges. The Alps, The Pyrenees and the Carpathian Mountains all stretch along Europe’s landscape. And atop these ranges you’ll find marvelous snowcapped peaks. Browse this gallery to learn more about Europe’s tallest peaks. Then, experience their natural grandeur in person on your next European adventure.
Fewer tourists, cooler weather, and cheaper airfares and hotels lure many travelers to Europe during the off-season. But when exactly is the European off-season and where are good places to visit?
Music is at the heart of every country, city and person in Europe. But the type of music you’ll find during a trip to Europe can vary dramatically. From modern rock festivals to classic opera performances, you’re sure to see and hear a wide range of performances. Browse this gallery for a taste of some of Europe’s most interesting music scenes.
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.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in a particular culture is to attend a heritage festival. Learn how the locals celebrate their colorful customs by sharing what makes their homeland special, namely through music, art, food, and a multitude of engaging activities and events. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover the rich history and varied traditions of a culture as presented and celebrated by its own people.
Europe is full of iconic sites and landmarks. From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to flower fields of the Netherlands, there’s always something new and exciting to see. In this gallery, you’ll find just some of the must-see landmarks scattered throughout Europe in this gallery. Get to know a little about them here so you know which ones to add to your trip itinerary.
If you love cooking as much as you love traveling, why not combine your passions and embark on the ultimate tasting tour? With gastronomic tourism on the rise, travellers from all over the world are able to get a unique perspective on a country’s native cuisine and how it’s prepared while sampling the local culture, sights and attractions. Try a cooking class in Europe and learn culinary secrets from world-renowned chefs in some of Europe’s most spectacular settings. Learn to make paella in Valencia, how they make cheese in the South of France, or about nose-to-tail butchering in the English countryside.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place that has been awarded as having cultural or environmental importance. Luckily, Europe has plenty of UNESCO sites to explore. From ancient castles to quaint seaside towns, you’ll find natural and cultural beauty everywhere you go. Consider this gallery your guide to some of the best UNESCO sites in Europe to discover on your next trip.
There’s nothing like enjoying a night at the opera in the very place where it was born. From Teatro alla Scala in Milan to London’s Covent Garden, Europe is home to many of the world’s finest opera houses. Don’t miss the chance to take your European vacation to new heights of action, drama and romance – all within the span of a few hours – with a trip to one of Europe’s famed opera houses
Europe’s heritage and culture date back thousands of years. And some of the most ancient remnants of the earliest European cultures can still be found today. From prehistoric cave drawings to mysterious stone formations, discover the continent’s past at its oldest locations. Browse this gallery, then come see these magnificent sites for yourself on your next trip.
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.
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.
The snow-white scenery of the Dolomites is an ideal destination for those who love skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, climbing, snowshoeing and trekking. Internationally famous for its ski resorts, it’s a magic realm offering numerous slopes in one track for hundreds of kilometers while being surrounded by magnificent heights and enchanting landscapes. There are so many sports to practice on Mount Rosa and its valleys; the three valleys of Ayas, Gressoney and Valsesia have some of Italy’s biggest ski resorts.
Some of Europe’s most historic sites are sports stadiums. From gladiators battling in the Colosseum to the world’s best footballers competing in Camp Nou, stadiums have long had their place of prominence in European lifestyle. Explore 10 of the most historic sporting sites throughout the years with this photo gallery.
Europe has a well-connected railway system. Not only does this make travel super convenient, but it also shows off some of the best views in Europe. From coastlines to alpine peaks, you can see the most scenic vistas of Europe.
Polenta e Osei is probably the most representative dish of Vicenza’s traditional cuisine. The recipe contains simple ingredients and its secret lies in a long and low heat cooking. The meat has to be moistened during the whole cooking process and the heat has to be uniformly distributed.
A typical Christmas dish is the roasted hen turkey with pomegranate. The dish dates back to the Renaissance, and more specifically to the magnificent banquets of the Serenissima Republic.
Bassano is a small and lovely town not far away from the city of Palladio, where a precious white plant grows up every spring, becoming the main protagonist during Easter – the asparagus. Eggs and Asparago Bianco di Bassano DOP represents one of the most typical dishes of the Veneto province. The dish is an example of a simple but tasty regional recipe and goes very well with white wines.
Capons are often used in the traditional cuisine of Vicenza and Capon ala canevèra is a dish that is usually prepared in winter, during Christmas holidays. But what is the canevèra? It’s a kind of pipe used as a blowhole during the cooking process in the oven, so the meat can keep all its taste.
A great dish of Veneto’s cuisine tradition is the classic but tasty recipe of pasta e fasoi. For the locals of Veneto beans are related to strength and survival, as they helped families to feed themselves and carry on during hard times of war and famine.
Bigoli con L’Arna is one of the most mouthwatering dishes of Vicenza’s cuisine. This is an ancient recipe which brings us back in time of 16th century, when the Holy League defeated the Ottoman Empire in the famous Battle of Lepanto. To remember the glorious victory, Pope Pio V (and subsequently Gregorio XIII) established a feast called Our Lady of the Rosary, celebrated by the locals of Veneto with this special dish every first Sunday of October.
Polenta is a cornmeal mush mixed during its cooking with different cheeses and butter. It is a very simple and tasty dish, popular in Piedmon and Lombardy regions (Italy).
This sweet and sour specialty is exceptionally popular with locals and guests alike. The apple strudel filling is made of apples, sultanas, sugar, breadcrumbs, natural flavors, pine nuts, other nuts or almonds and butter. Only South Tyrolean apples and South Tyrolean butter may be used in apple strudel with the seal of quality. All ingredients are natural. Preservatives and other additives are forbidden. Flavor enhancers may not be used either. South Tyrolean apple strudel contains only natural flavors and aromas.
Dumplings are the epitome of the South Tyrolean cuisine and an indispensable part of every menu. Dumplings are made of South Tyrolean white bread, which is dried and cut into cubes for making dumplings. The basic dough is made of type 00 white flour, South Tyrolean milk, pasteurised free-range eggs, fresh or frozen onions, dried, fresh or frozen parsley and chives if desired. South Tyrolean speck dumplings contain 15 – 20 % diced speck (PGI).
Speck Alto Adige PGI, the unique smoked ham of Italy´s southern Alps, іs а dry-cured, lightly smoked ham produced іn South Tyrol, northern Italy. Parts оf іts production аre regulated by the European Union under the protected geographical indication (PGI) status.
The Chestnut: sweet, healthy and low in calories. The Valle Isarco/Eisacktal Valley innkeepers show us the taste of the chestnut during the “Valle Isarco Chestnut Speciality Weeks” from the middle of October to the beginning of November when everything revolves around the fruit of the bread-fruit tree. Numerous inns all along the route of the Keschtnweg, in the traditional chestnut growing area of the Valle Isarco offer all sorts of tasty treats during this time, which are all prepared using the noble chestnut.
Panna Cotta Asparagi di Santena is different type of panna cotta.
The Valpolicella, Euganei-Berici and del Grappa Extra Virgin Olive Oils are different types of olive oils, but all with a fruity taste and a slightly bitter hint.
This tender asparagus is a spring delicacy. Highly appreciated for its delicate flavour and its diuretic properties.
In spring the white asparagus from Bassano reigns supreme on local tables.
From risotto to soups, from salads to desserts: Vialone Nano Veronese is the king of rices.
A true delicacy. This ham embodies the perfect balance of flavour and fragrance.
A gourmet cheese with an intense bouquet and aromatic flavour.
The Soprèssa Vicentina is considered the Venetian cold cut par excellence.
The tasty and nutritious chestnuts of San Zeno are found in many local dishes.
This tasty cheese is produced in a variety of shapes and sizes: pear, sausage, melon.
This popular and widely used cheese is produced only on the Asiago plateau in the Veneto foothills.
This cheese has its own unique charm: its flavor and fragrance reflects the alpine region where it is made.
This nutty and slightly fruity flavored cheese is made in large wheels and is produced in the Veneto and Fruili regions.
The delicious Marostica cherry is the first cherry in Italy to obtain the PGI mark.
Top quality bean is highly popular due to its rich properties and delicate flavour.
Particularly pleasing to the palate, this fine quality oil has unique organoleptic properties.
The flavour is sweet and pungent; the aroma is intense without being overbearing, with an unwavering persistence.
From the mountains of Northern Italy comes a tasty cheese with an intense, penetrating aroma and a pleasantly salty, sharp flavour. Puzzone di Moena is made from raw cow’s milk and derives its specific character from the high quality of the raw milk used.
