Germany’s local crafts
Where tradition meets creativity…
Where tradition meets creativity…
Swap the crowds for a more authentic, memorable experience.
Take an off-season journey.
Discover the beauty of the shoulder seasons.
Explore new attractions and cultural gems…
An alternative holiday experience.
Unlock top accessible travel tips.
Experience Germany’s hiking trails.
Highlights of plant-based cuisine to enjoy!
Relax under starry skies.
Five trails for all levels!
Serenity, treasures, and unique charm.
Premier events at iconic sport venues
Where to enjoy skiing, winter hiking, and more…
Scenic journeys and stunning panoramas.
Your gateway to adventure on two wheels!
A sound spectrum from opera to festivals.
Sustainable travel on wheels!
In 1987, the Council of Europe established the first Cultural Route of the Council of Europe, which is now one of 47 fascinating trails. These carefully constructed sightseeing itineraries encourage travelers to discover the richness and diversity of European heritage through transnational cultural routes. Since the first route was inaugurated over 35 years ago, the “Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe” label has come to represent Europe’s most culturally rich, thoughtfully designed historical routes. Known worldwide, these Routes are a model for intercultural dialogue, local development, and sustainable cultural tourism. We invite you to begin your journey and explore all the cultural routes in Europe! Stefano DOMINIONI Executive Secretary of the Enlarged Partial Agreement on Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe and Director of the European Institute of Cultural Routes
Explore charming natural areas!
Experience a variety of fascinating routes.
Tips for a cozy Advent season.
Discover Germany´s sporty winter activities.
Discover Germany’s urban artistry.
Discover diverse natural landscapes.
Discover Germany’s unique shopping places.
Experience dazzling highlights…
Discover a nature lover’s paradise!
See the buildings that changed the world!
Travel experiences from a different angle.
Tips for experiencing Germany like a native.
Discover women’s cultural contributions.
Where to admire the greatest skylines!
Experience German folklore in every season.
A travel journalist shares her favorite European spots for 2023!
Extraordinary towns, museums, and traditions.
Immerse yourself in a magical world.
5 lost European holiday traditions ready for rediscovery!
In 2021, eleven amazing spa towns in seven European countries were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a ‘transnational serial’ World Heritage Site, called the “Great Spa Towns of Europe”. These towns, in Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom represent a unique cultural achievement and urban form which was at its height from the late 18th century to the 1930s.
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!
Health spas and resorts – a little time out.
Immerse Yourself in the Spa Culture of Europe.
Bread, wine, beer, and beloved traditional recipes.
Sustainable experiences to inspire the heart!
Spend the most festive season in Europe!
Germany’s large cities have everything you need for your city break.
Germany’s endless array of castles and palaces.
Everything for your sustainable journey.
My story of traveling the continent with my kids—where to go, how to go, what to do.
Family fun ranging from nature to culture!
Find excitement in Europe’s National Parks!
Cruising through Europe’s winding rivers.
Visit European cities to witness stunning buildings!
Ever wondered where your forefathers once lived? Come to Europe to see those villages, towns, and cities with your own eyes.
A glimpse at Europe’s luxury brands.
Tracing the Routes of Jewish Heritage in Europe!
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.
Even if the only music lesson you ever had was more than four presidential administrations ago, it’s never too late to learn and appreciate different kinds of music. Families, college students and lifelong learners flock to Europe to take advantage of its plentiful opportunities for cultural enrichment through music.
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.
Get ready for your winter holiday in Europe.
Visit Aachen to experience the richness of a medieval city coupled with modern flair.
From retro bars to vintage shops, Cologne is the place that can deliver on hipness without being snobby.
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!
A festival in the city of Beethoven’s birth. The heart of the Bonn Beethovenfest is the music of Ludwig van Beethoven.
European Heritage Sites include archives, monuments, archeological sites, and places of seminal cultural or political value, from the classic age to the present. Since the label’s inception in 2013, thirty-eight sites have been designated, bringing passages in Europe’s history to the foreground to honor, celebrate, and remember who built Europe, how, and why. They are lessons from the past to guide the future of Europe.
The Handel Festival is the largest music festival in Saxony-Anhalt and one of the oldest and most famous Baroque music festivals in Europe.
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.
When you travel to Europe, it’s not just about enjoying the sights and sounds. It’s about immersing yourself in the culture to get even more out of your trip. That means jumping in head first to education experiences that you might not do otherwise. Whether you’re studying abroad in Europe for school or on a month-long sabbatical from everyday life, enjoy a wide range of experiences to truly enjoy European culture.
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.
Europe Makes Traveling with Children Easier.
With a past as storied as Europe’s, it’s impossible not to take in some history while on your trip. Find out more about UNESCO World Heritage Site in the European territory.
Europe is home to a fascinating array of museums, devoted to every subject imaginable. From Vikings in the north, broken relationships in Croatia to vampires in Brasov. Here is the lowdown on Europes original and unusual museums.
Push your limits at Europe’s most exhilarating and unusual theme parks!
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.
From the cool winds of the Atlantic to the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Europe’s coastline defines the continent in every way. It has created communities, inspired exploration, driven trade and attracted tourism, while remaining a constant source of natural wonder.
Venice is arguably the most romantic place in the world. With serene rivers and canals winding through the city, there are unforgettable sights at every turn. But it’s not the only romantic city in Europe. Get to know the European cities that claim to be the “Venice of the North” by browsing through this gallery.
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.
Spring is the perfect time to be in Europe. Discover why.
Europe is a magical place. From ancient castles to picturesque waterfalls, much of the scenery looks like it could be straight out of a fairytale. In fact, much of Europe’s best literature, collections of short stories and iconic European fairytales are inspired by real places. Explore them for yourself to turn the stories of folklore into your reality.
Europe is a very bike-friendly continent, both in the cities and out in the countryside.
All Natural. All Delicious.
Rich with diversity and beaming with culture, Europe is home to everything from pride parades to museums that celebrate the LGBT community. You can find an entire district of high-end shopping in one city – then go skiing down whitewashed mountains in the next. So inspire your upcoming European stay with some of the area’s most enticing settings.
Every August, the Mainz Wine Market in the Romantic City Park brings together regional wine enthusiasts for a vibrant gathering.
Germany’s largest vintners procession, election of the Palatinate and German wine queens and German wine fair.
The Stuttgart Wine Festival is a not-to be-missed event for wine lovers. It is held each year in the Baden-Württemberg region of Germany. The festival’s entire focus is on food and wine, and it’s a summer event with a twist: there is no loud music! Those who, in addition to gastronomy, also love velocity and cars will find a real paradise and this event is the perfect chance to discover the region.
The world’s largest beer festival – Oktoberfest, with over six million annual visitors, 14 lively beer tents, and genuine German festivity.
Enjoy Frankfurt’s famous Apfelwine, a crisp cider made from traditional apples. Explore a variety of options at the lively festival stands!
Dürkheim Sausages Fair (Wurstmarkt) is internationally well known as the world’s biggest wine festival and is one of the most popular culinary feasts in Germany.
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.
Plan a European vacation that fits your travel style!
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.
Much of Europe is known for its beer and wine production. But we don’t just know how to make them; we know how to drink them. From energetic beer festivals to exquisite wine gatherings, there’s plenty to celebrate. Drink up six of the best beer and wine festivals throughout Europe with this gallery.
The mystery of the Celtic people continues to entice people to visit the ancient sites and ponder the meaning of what’s been left behind. You can explore well-known passage graves and monastic settlements of Ireland and Scotland to catch a glimpse into the sacred and storied Celts, but you can also find their mark on a number of other places throughout Europe that are just as fascinating.
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.
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.
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.
Witness Sporting Events on Europe’s Iconic Grounds!
Atop of European ranges you’ll find marvelous snowcapped peaks.
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?
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.
Sip some of the oldest traditions in Europe.
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.
Explore some of the grandest of Europe’s palaces in this breathtaking photo gallery.
Europe is a jolly place to be any time of the year. But when Christmas time rolls around, some places become nothing short of magical. It all starts at the Christmas markets sprinkled throughout the continent. From Finland to France, unwrap the wonder of European Christmas markets with this gallery. Then, find your way here in December to experience it firsthand.
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.
Travel back to the Middle Ages with this photo gallery of the most breathtaking castles that still stand in Europe.
Europe’s thermal spas invite you to relax in the lap of luxury. Filled with natural waters and accompanied by lavish treatments, Europe’s pools and modern resorts provide you with the perfect opportunity to unplug, relax and unwind.
The Nürnberger Lebkuchen dough can also be used to create little Gingerbread-men, frosted hearts with greetings and the like. Use your own creativity using this traditional recipe from Bavaria!
All over the world, German cuisine is associated with traditional Bavarian dishes. Thinking about German food, who would not mention pretzels, sauerkraut, dumplings and of course, the home-made Spätzle noodles!
Sauerbraten and Potato Dumplings, a true German favorite.
Rote Grütze – A perfect summer dessert