Experiences

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.

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.

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 your fix of some of the oldest and most spectacular archaeological sites in Europe.

Three perfect cities for discovering Europe’s freshest creative talent!

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 <a href="https://www.viefrancigene.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Via Francigena</a>.

<a href="https://www.viefrancigene.org/en/the-photo-contest-share-your-route-is-back-for-2023-join-with-your-photos-along-the-via/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Join Via Francigena photo contest!</a>