Best Places to Go in EUROPE
When it comes to Europe, there are some places that just can’t be missed. These include Barcelona that’s full of interesting architecture, buzzing food and music scenes and La Sagrada Familia and the Acropolis.
In northwestern Slovenia lies Triglav National Park, with towering mountains, alpine meadows and winding hiking trails. You can also take a cogwheel train and visit Zermatt to see the Matterhorn.
Verdon Gorge
Located within the boundaries of both the Var and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments, this spectacular natural site is home to imposing limestone cliffs that rise to over 700 meters. The area is one of France’s best-kept secrets and while it can easily be done as a day trip from Nice, it’s worth spending a few days to really enjoy this stunning region.
One of the main attractions in this area is the Gorges du Verdon, the biggest canyon in Europe and a place that’s a favorite for many hikers. There are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging and most offer gorgeous views. You can also spend a day swimming in the lakes around the region or enjoying a scenic boat ride.
Another great attraction in this region is the adorable village of Moustiers Sainte-Marie, which was honestly one of my highlights from my trip to France. Wander down the dozens of little streets here and don’t miss a visit to Notre Dame de Beauvoir, a church with some truly amazing views over town.
Provence
Endless fields of scented lavender and sunflowers are also a sight to see, especially during the summer months. Then there’s the charming city of Aix-en-Provence, birthplace of impressionist painter Paul Cezanne, with its gorgeous architecture and friendly locals.
With its icy blue waters and idyllic waterfalls, Norway’s Geirangerfjord is one of the most scenic fjords in Europe. Take a sightseeing cruise around the fjord, stopping now and then to admire the scenery, or hike to viewpoints for views over the waters that look almost too blue to be real. While you’re there, sample some of the country’s famous seafood dishes and don’t miss trying pastis, an anise flavoured spirit that originated here.
Ljubljana
One of the best places to go in EUROPE is Ljubljana, a compact capital with an impressive Old Town that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its cobblestone streets, scenic bridges and abundant cafes make it a great place to wander, plus moderate summer temperatures keep things pleasant.
The city has many fine restaurants and one of the best places to eat in EUROPE is the delightful Preseren Square, where locals and tourists socialize, listen to talented street musicians, and enjoy a glass of Slovenian Rebula wine. The city also has an impressive architecture museum, the Neboticnik skyscraper (once the tallest building in Yugoslavia), and a spectacular new riverside footbridge called the Fishmarket, which spans the Ljubljanica River in the heart of the Old Town.
Ljubljana was crowned Green Capital of Europe in 2016, and the city is known for its low carbon emissions, with its highest percentage of pedestrianized streets. Visitors can walk the medieval Stari and Gornji Trg streets or take what looks like a green golf cart, the Kavalir electric taxi, or Urban, a mini-train on wheels that runs free around the center. For budget travelers, there are plenty of comfortable and homely guest houses in the city.
Comino
The tiny island of Comino is an idyllic beach escape in the Mediterranean, with white sandy beaches and blue water. It’s also a top spot for scuba diving, boasting some of the world’s oldest stone structures and monuments. Guests can stay on the island but it’s often best to visit on a full or half day boat trip, which includes stops at other popular sights in Malta and Gozo.
The aging Comino Hotel is the only lodging on the island, offering a range of rooms and suites along with buffet restaurants typical of a mid-range all-inclusive resort. The property is a short drive from Mellieha, the main island of Malta, and a quick ride from the Blue Lagoon.
From April to May, Keukenhof is a wonderland of flowering daffodils, tulips and hyacinths that look like they came straight out of a fairytale. The Rakotzbrucke bridge, which looks like it belongs in a storybook, is another highlight of the city. Throughout the year, visitors can sample delicious foods, explore medieval and Renaissance landmarks and tour numerous museums and galleries in this charming European city.
Istanbul
Sitting astride Europe and Asia, Istanbul’s best attractions reflect its clamorous culture-clash – religion meets hedonism in a city where old is new and grandeur collides with tumbledown. But don’t be afraid to veer off the tourist track and get lost in the narrow laneways and alleys where you might find hidden gems.
What to do: Stroll along the bustling pedestrian avenue Istiklal Caddesi stopping off at cafes, shops and modern art galleries. It’s an invigorating way to soak up the city’s hedonistic energy.
Or rent a bicycle to amble through Ortakoy, an area of merriment right by the Bosphorus Bridge that’s popular among locals for its kumpir (jacket potato) stalls where you can pile it high with your choice of toppings. You can also visit the nearby Aya Irini mosque and take in a classical concert at the renowned Istanbul Music Festival held in its magnificent acoustic church.