Although it is the world’s second-smallest continent, Europe welcomes more than half of all the tourists worldwide. In fact, 7 out of the 10 most visited countries in the world are European nations. It’s easy to see why; a well preserved cultural heritage, rich history, safety, and efficient infrastructure makes visiting Europe a breeze. Here is a look at the best places to visit in Europe:
Vienna – As the former seat of the Hapsburg Empire, Vienna is awash with impressive imperial buildings and palaces which so comprehensively convey the wealth and power of its former monarchs. Now the capital of Austria, the city is a delight to get lost in. Nicknamed “the city of music”, the names of its famous residents roll of the tongue with Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert among those who once graced its streets.
Stonehenge – You have to marvel at the determination of prehistoric man when you look at Stonehenge. Construction started about 3000 BC on what was originally a burial ground. Huge monoliths, weighing 25 tonnes, were dragged 150 miles to the site a few hundred years later. Its not known exactly how many humungous rocks were moved to a field near Amesbury but there are 13 standing today. Its also not known why Stonehenge was built, but many believe this great English landmark is associated with early astrology.
Matterhorn – Egypt may have its Pyramids, but Italy and Switzerland have nature made Pyramid of their own: the Matterhorn. At 14692 feet high, this famous mountain is one of the highest in Europe. The mountain has four faces, each equally rugged. The legendary mountains have been popular with climbers since the first ascent in 1865; during the summer 150 people, a day try to climb it. Couch potatoes may be just as happy to stay below and gaze in awe at the summit playing hide and seek with the clouds.
Plitvice Lakes – The Plitvice lakes are so pretty, officials turned them into a national park. Located in central Croatia, Plitvice Lakes consists of 16 lakes that attract more than a million visitors a year. The lakes are surrounded by lush forests and connected by waterfalls cascading down from one lake to another. The lakes are divided into two sections, lower and upper, because of the difference in elevation. The best way to see the lakes is walking, on the route, you might even see some wildlife.
Budapest – Budapest was already an established city when the Hungarians took over in the nineteenth century. Today, Budapest is the country’s capital and largest city. In between these two events, Budapest was ruled by Mongols and Ottomans, among others. Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Budapest is home to the museum of fine arts with its collection of more than 100,000 works. Be sure to visit a centrally located old town with its many museums, churches, palaces, and parliament building. It surely remains one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Lisbon – The Portuguese capital of Lisbon lies on the Tagus river along the Atlantic coast. It is this location that encouraged explorers to sail far and wide around the world in the 15th,16th and 17th centuries. One of the things you`ll want to see is Belem Tower, a 16th-century fortress on the Tagus’ north bank. If you’re looking for good views of old Lisbon, head to Saint George castle that was built on a hilltop by the moors.
Gullfoss – You probably don`t know too many people who have been to Iceland. But it may be worth a trip there to visit the spectacular Gullfoss waterfalls. Located in southern Iceland, Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s top tourists attractions. At times it almost appears glacier-like appropriate, perhaps, since it is fed by a glacier. The waterfalls begin just after the Olfusa river makes a perpendicular turn and then cascades down a three-step staircase into a canyon that is 115 feet deep.
Athens – a city that`s been inhabited since the fifth century BC, gave the world the concept of democracy and is the birthplace of western civilization. Many of the city’s major landmarks can be found in the old town, particularly around the acropolis. The list includes the temple of Zeus, the theatre of Dionysus where Sophocles works were performed and the Parthenon, which sits atop the acropolis.
Moscow – for nearly 900 years, Moscow has been the capital of Russia. As such this old city has plenty to offer visitors. Let’s start with the 15th-century red square since many of the city’s key attractions surround it. A top landmark is a kremlin, a former fortress that houses museums and the president of the Russian federation. Lenin’s tomb sits in the middle of the square, while the iconic onion-domed St-Basils cathedral, now a museum, is on one side.
Venice – Venice is for romantics who love gliding through the Grand Canal with a gondolier singing Italian love songs. This is, after all, the city that sent Marco Polo off on his journey to China. Start your exploration of Venice at San Marco Square, the city’s most famous square. Here you’ll find the doges palace, the seat of Venetian government, and St Marks Basilica, the main church in Venice with stunning views from the tower. Venice also is famous for its bridges across the canal.
Monte Carlo – One of the best places to visit In Europe, if you’re into glitz and glamour, look no further than Monte Carlo, the major city in the tiny principality of Monaco. Monaco has always been known for these qualities which reached new heights when its prince made Grace Kelly its princess. Sitting on the shores of the Mediterranean, Monte Carlo is known for its fast car races and its elite casino. Take a walk along the harbor to see yachts that belong to the rich and famous.
London – English history buffs will have a field day in London. This city on the Thames is chock full of palaces, from Buckingham Palace to Hampton court palace. More a prison than a palace, the Tower of London is home to the crown jewels. And from Knightsbridge don`t forget to visit the magnificent food halls and Harrods to Carnaby street, the shopping is awesome. You can get around London quickly and efficiently by riding the famous tube.
Amsterdam – Is a pleasant city marked with meandering canals lined with tall, narrow raw houses. It is a city where Anne Frank kept her famous diary, so visiting the house where she wrote is a must. This ” Venice of The North” also is a city of great art, beginning with the Rijksmuseum, home to great European masterpieces; Rembrandt’s house and the more modern Van Gogh museum.
Prague – With along history of war and destruction, it is considered one of the best places to visit in Europe. Despite the devastation caused by World War 11, Prague has a very nice old town that is worth more than a few hours of your time. Prague has many pedestrian zones, which makes walking a delight, as you wander by Prague Castle, through the Jewish quarter, and over the Charles bridge. Wenceslas Square, situated in the new town, hums with the vibrant nightlife and entertainment air.
Instanbul – Instanbul maybe on the outer fringes of Europe but well worth a visit when you are traveling abroad. Turkey’s biggest city is a fascinating place filled with a rich history, colorful markets and mosques. Top attractions include the Bosporus that separates Europe from Asia; the Ecumenical Hagia Sophia that’s been a greek orthodox Christian basilica, then an imperial mosque and now a museum and the 15th century Topkapi Palace, also a museum today. Get in a little shopping at the Grand Bazaar that’s been in operation since 1461.
Barcelona – founded by the Romans, one of the best places to visit in Europe, Barcelona today is a bustling city on the Mediterranean sea. As the capital of Catalonia, it is a powerhouse in the region. It is perhaps best known for the unusual buildings designed by the architect Antoni Gaudi. These landmark structures include La Sagrada Familia, a church that’s been under construction since 1892. You could build your entire visit around his buildings, but then you would miss out on other Barcelona delights, such as La Rambla, a popular pedestrian street in the central part of the city.
Santorini – When its time to sit back and relax, take yourself to Santorini, an island in the Aegean. Top travel magazines consider this a prime destination; once there you can`t help but agree. The island has picture post-card villages, an active volcano, and an stunning sunsets. Be sure to visit Fira, a village perched atop a cliff.
Paris – Songs laud Paris in the springtime, but any time of the year is a good time to visit this riveting city on the River Seine. Its a city loaded to the brim with history, culture, great food, and high fashion. The iconic Eiffel Tower is one landmark you won’t want to miss. The louvre houses one of the greatest art collections in the world. Its great churches include the sacred heart and Notre Dame. When it comes to opulence, there’s Versailles with its famed hall of mirrors.
Rome – The ancient Romans established outposts as far away as Great Britain. They dint ignore their home city, however, when it came to building great monuments. One must-see landmark is the colosseum, an arena that could hold up to 80,000 people for gladiator contests. One of the biggest draws is a tiny country inside the city; The Vatican City, with its impressive St Peters basilica with art provided by Michelangelo. Maybe you’ll get a glimpse of the Pope at his Wednesday audiences. It largely remains as one of the best places to visit in Europe
