Europe is one of the most exciting continents to explore on the planet. Every destination offers such a deep history and fascinating culture, whether it’s a big country or a small one. Travelling around this part of the world can be difficult because there are so many places to see but too little time to see everything. Which European destinations should be at the top of your “To See” list? In this article, we’re going to talk about the most beautiful countries in Europe and the best things to see and do whilst you visit them.
France
For starters, France is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. And you definitely need to start by seeing Paris. The capital is one of the most popular cities in the world, and it definitely lives up to expectations. The iconic buildings and landmarks are even more spectacular in person. Make sure you start by seeing the Eiffel Tower, of course. Head up the tower and admire the vast city of Paris from a great height. It’s incredibly romantic. And you also need to see the magnificent Arc de Triomphe. It’s an architectural masterpiece that’ll leave you awestruck.
Of course, there’s more to France than Paris. It’s a beautiful city, but the capital is a small snapshot of what this fantastic country has to offer. Another city that you should consider visiting is Cannes. Located on the French Riviera, this beautiful seaside destination is loved by tourists from all over the world. It’s famed for its link to the rich and famous, so you should definitely try to visit the city whilst the Cannes Film Festival is on. You might also want to look into options for luxury yacht rental in the south of France. The French Riviera is absolutely stunning, so it’s well worth taking a scenic yacht ride to truly experience this wonderful part of the country. You’ll definitely be able to appreciate France’s beauty in the sunny south.
Spain
Spain is one of the most culturally intriguing and visually stunning countries in Europe. You definitely need to start by visiting Madrid. The capital promises everything from glitzy skyscrapers to historical architecture. Make sure you visit the beautiful Calle de Alcalá to admire a slice of Spain’s rich and vivid history. The Golden Triangle of Art is also a trio of brilliant museums with extraordinary galleries.
Barcelona is another brilliant city that you have to visit whilst in Spain. It might not be the capital, but it’s certainly one of the most popular tourist destinations. Wander the streets and admire Gaudi’s fantastic architecture throughout the city. You definitely need to see the Sagrada Familia. This fantastic cathedral has been under construction over the course of two different centuries, and the brilliance of the design is a testament to this impressive fact. Gaudi’s legacy lives on through this unbelievable piece of architecture. Its grandeur can’t really be appreciated unless you visit the building in person, so make sure you find time to explore the cathedral whilst you’re in Barcelona.
Germany
Finally, you need to see Germany. It’s a beautiful country with a long and fascinating history. Start off with a visit to Munich. It’s definitely one of the most interesting cities in Germany. Make sure you try some of the beer (or “stein”) whilst you’re there. Germany is famous for its beer across the entire country, but Munich is particularly proud of its beverages. If you’re a big beer drinker then head to Hofbräuhaus; this is the royal brewery in Munich, and you’ll be able to try a wider range of lagers and beers that’ll suit all manner of tastes and preferences. And great beer is just the tip of what this city has to offer.
Which European countries or cities are at the top of your “To See” list?
Edited by Lacey Dearie
Some of my favourites there – particularly France and Germany. I really like Marseilles – it can be a bit seedy in places, but the seafood is fabulous,and Aix-en-Provence is only a short train rode away: great place for Sunday lunch, markets and people watching.
Romania is a fascinating place too – while Bucharest is a typical city, if you head out to the Carpathian mountains near Sibiu then you’re in for a treat: fabulous scenery and really wild forests.
Beer drinkers need to try Belgium – it’s a religion there, with each town and region having its own specilaities. It also has some picturesque cities (outside of the sprawl of Brussels) – Antwerp is intersting and has an amazing railway station. The other great thing about Belgium is chocolate – and Brussels has some of the greatest chocolatiers in the world – Wittamer, Frederic Blondeel, Neuhaus and (my favourite) Pierre Marcolini
There are so many beautiful places in Europe. Italy is gorgeous and I really like Malta and Cyprus too. Perhaps this is a topic worthy of another blog post at a later date… 🙂
…and a road trip 🙂