Black Sea

East meets West in a tempting blend of culture along these exotic shores. Breathe the same air where the Greeks, earliest Christians, and the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires flourished ages ago. Make a modern-day pilgrimage to the Sumela monastery, clinging to the cliffs outside Trabzon since the 14th century. Cast off and sail from Constanta, the Black Sea port where Jason and his legendary Argonauts landed. Absorb the peaceful balance of nature while surrounded by unsullied wildernesses and then flock to the Danube Delta, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Find your sense of adventure and run the rapids of the River Coruh, one of the fastest flowing in the world. As the countryside transitions into Asia on the western edge of Europe, discover centuries of peoples and cultures converging in one remarkable region.

  • From Outlawed to Outpouring

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    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.
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  • Europe’s Sparkling Inland Waters

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    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.
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  • The Amazing Monasteries and Abbeys of Europe

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    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.
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  • Divine Inspiration

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    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.
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  • The Best European Experiences for Music Lovers

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    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.
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  • Through the Grapevine

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    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.
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  • Catch Some Waves, Sun and Sand

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    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.
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