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European Biking Escapes
Seeing Europe from the saddle of a bicycle has almost countless benefits. It’s sustainable and soothingly quiet — unless you’re shouting your victory at the end of a race! — provides ever-changing scenery, plenty of exercise, and a great way to meet locals and find less-visited spots. Trains almost always accommodate bikes, as do many urban public transportation systems; Europeans love their bikes! You’ll find plenty of options for guided tours, or maps and apps to plan your own itinerary — all …
Europe’s Unique Sports Scene
If you love sports, Europe is a goldmine. Both spectators and participants will find a huge array of enticing traditional games, professional competitions, and unique sporting events – not to mention the Summer and Winter Olympics Games and all the excitement they bring. Attend legendary regattas, tournaments, races and competitions (remembering to buy tickets well in advance). When the Olympic Games are on, many locales hold distant viewing events, and some countries offer tours of their …
A different Christmas in Europe
December holidays can bring as much anxiety as joy when the barrage of decorations, heavy meals, shopping and social expectations become more than you want to deal with. Discover all kinds of calmer ways to enjoy Europe at the end of the year. Immerse yourself in quiet winter nature , relaxing at spas with views of snowy mountains, wearing yourself out on skis or snowshoes and sleeping like a, well, yule log at night. Head for the temperate beaches and islands and get some direct vitamin D! If …
Best time to visit Europe off-season
If the thought of navigating huge crowds of tourists in Europe is damping down your travel dreams, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons. These are the times of the year when the most iconic attractions aren’t at their peak or the weather isn’t “perfect”; the upsides of traveling at low season are fewer crowds, a slower pace, more spacious sites, lower costs, and the chance to attend fairs and festivals frequented primarily by local people. Imagine: you might not have to hold your phone …
Eco-friendly travel in Europe
Looking for a fresh way to experience Europe’s cities ? Take it slow. From strollable streets and scenic bike paths to easy public transport and peaceful boat rides, getting around is part of the adventure. Many city centers in Europe are walkable and full of hidden gems , while local transit passes help you connect landmarks, museums, and markets — often with extra perks like discounts. Whether you wander on foot, pedal through side streets, or float along a river, the slower you go, the more …
Europe’s wildlife sanctuaries
Explore Europe’s diverse wildlife and birdwatching sanctuaries , where nature thrives in its purest forms. From mountaintops to valleys and savannahs to river deltas, Europe is beyond compare in the variety of its habitats given the size of its landmass. Migratory bird paths crisscross the continent, making for a birdwatcher’s dream come true. Spot unique, endemic species of plants and animals on land and sea. Book eco-friendly accommodation by seeking out the Green Key symbol . Engage local, …
Eco-friendly trips in Europe
Is traveling green in Europe as rewarding as other styles of travel? Absolutely — and often more so. Here, going green doesn’t mean giving something up — it means gaining more. Swap traffic for tranquility with Europe’s legendary railways and bike-friendly boulevards. Skip single-use waste and unlock street markets full of handmade treasures. Bring a refillable bottle and discover that even small choices can open big doors — like cleaner landscapes, richer encounters, and a deeper sense of …
Europe’s hidden urban gems
Want to know another way to experience local life in Europe? Venture off the beaten path to Europe’s second-tier cities or rediscover its capitals in ways you’ve never imagined. Travel at a slower pace and feel a completely different atmosphere, without the frenetic buzz of most “celebrity” cities. Escape the usual tourist hotspots, standard tours, teeming crowds and long lines. Instead, wander through truly local markets ; discover tiny, hidden streets; visit bijoux, less overwhelming museums …
Waterside getaways in Europe
Europe’s stunning coastal and lakeside getaways are the perfect contrast to revved-up sightseeing. Of course, you want to see world-renowned art, iconic buildings, and log some café time. To assimilate all that you’ve seen of manmade efforts? Spend some calmer days by the water to let it all settle, and add some invigorating hikes and cycling tours. Seek out the less-visited lakes and seacoasts to immerse yourself in nature and the soothing sounds of waves, waterfalls and streams. From tranquil …
Must-see wine regions of Europe
Pick, stomp, and taste your way through Europe’s ancient vineyards and innovative wineries. Yes, you can taste wines year round — but the grape harvest season offers even more. First, update your wine geography: changing weather patterns support vibrant viticulture in countries you might not expect. Next, consider the exhilaration and slow beauty of cycling or rambling through wine country. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and take off your shoes, help pick the grapes or stomp the juice …