Islands & Archipelagos

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>

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!

The EU's drive for smarter tourism

Ιntroduced in 1985 with the noble aim of bringing our continent closer together, the European Capital of Culture scheme offered few early surprises.

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 therapeutic use of hot springs has been present in Europe from ancient times to the present day, giving birth to a number of <a href="https://ehtta.eu/portal/">spa towns</a> 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.

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.