Europe Travel and Tours - What to See and Do in Europe

Europe Travel and Tours - What to See and Do in Europe

Europe has a rich and complex history, and this is reflected in its many landmarks and historic sites.

The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and is a symbol of the power and influence of ancient Rome.

The Acropolis in Athens is another must-visit destination, with its ancient temples and stunning views over the city.

The remains of the Berlin Wall in Germany is a powerful reminder of the division that once existed between East and West Germany during the Cold War.

It can be tempting to try to see everything in one trip, but it's important to pace yourself. Focus on a few key destinations and allow yourself time to relax and enjoy the experience.

  Some Suggestions of Things to See and Do in Europe  

Attend a Festival

Europe is known for its lively festivals and celebrations, from Oktoberfest in Germany to the Running of the Bulls (San Fermin festival) in Spain.

Other popular events include the Venice Carnival in Italy, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, and the Fête de la Musique in France.

Discover the Castles

Europe has a long and fascinating history, and this is reflected in its numerous castles and palaces.

Some of the most famous include:

The Palace of Versailles in France, which was once the residence of Louis XIV.

Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, which inspired the castle in Disney's Sleeping Beauty.

The Alhambra in Spain, which is a Moorish palace complex that dates back to the 14th century.

Explore the Cities

Europe is known for its iconic cities such as Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, London, Paris, and Rome.

Each city has its own unique culture, architecture, and attractions that make it worth exploring.

Amsterdam, capital of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, is known for its picturesque canals, vibrant nightlife, and world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is famous for its stunning architecture, including the works of Antoni Gaudí, such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is a city that has been shaped by its tumultuous history and is home to landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and remnants of the Berlin Wall.

London, the capital of England, offers attractions such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.

Paris, the City of Light, is home to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Champs-Élysées.

Rome, the Eternal City, is home to landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and Vatican City.

Hit the Beach

Europe has some of the world's most beautiful beaches, from the sandy shores of the French Riviera to the rocky coastline of Croatia.

The Adriatic Coast, in Croatia, has a stunning coastline with a mix of sandy and rocky beaches. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the area include Zlatni Rat, Dubovica, and Banje Beach.

The Algarve, in Portugal, is a popular destination for its sunny climate and stunning beaches. Some of the most famous beaches in the area include Praia da Rocha, Praia do Vau, and Praia do Camilo.

The Amalfi Coast, in Italy, is known for its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the area include Fornillo Beach, Marina Grande Beach, and Duoglio Beach.

The Côte d'Azur, in France - also known as the French Riviera - is famous for its sandy beaches and glamorous resorts. Some of the most popular spots include Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Nice.

The Greek Islands are a popular destination for travellers seeking beautiful beaches in Greece. Some of the most popular include Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete, each with its unique charm and character.

Savour the Scenery

Europe is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, from the rugged coastlines of Ireland to the picturesque villages of Switzerland.

The rolling hills of Tuscany, and the majestic mountains of the Alps are just a few of the many breathtaking vistas that Europe has to offer.

Visit the Museums and Galleries

Europe is home to some of the world's most famous museums and galleries.

The Louvre, in Paris, houses the Mona Lisa.

The British Museum, in London has a vast collection of artefacts from around the world

The Vatican Museums, in Rome, is famous for Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling.

The Rijksmuseum, in Amsterdam, is home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Winter Sports

Europe is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with some of the world's best ski resorts located in the Alps.

The mountain range spans across several countries in Europe, including France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, and Germany, and features some of the best ski resorts in the world.

The region also offers stunning natural scenery and a range of cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for both sports enthusiasts and non-skiers alike.

Some of the most popular ski resorts in the Alps include Chamonix in France, Zermatt in Switzerland, St. Anton in Austria, and Cortina d'Ampezzo in Italy.

Europe Travel Tips

Europe is a popular travel destination, so it's important to plan your trip in advance.

Book your flights, accommodations, and activities early to avoid the last-minute rush and maybe even save some money.

Be Mindful of Cultural Differences

Europe is home to many different cultures and customs. Be respectful of local traditions and customs, and make an effort to learn about the culture of the country you are visiting.

Bring Comfortable Shoes

You will likely be doing a lot of walking in Europe, so it's important to bring comfortable shoes. Make sure you break them in before your trip to avoid blisters.

Get Travel Insurance

It's always a good idea to get travel insurance when travelling abroad. This can protect you against unforeseen events such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies.

Know the Seasons

Europe's climate varies from region to region, so it's important to know what to expect. Summer is the peak tourist season and can be very crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy. Spring and fall are great times to visit, as the crowds are smaller and the weather is mild.

Learn Some Basic Phrases

While English is widely spoken in Europe, it's always appreciated when travellers make an effort to speak the local language. Learn some basic phrases to introduce yourself and know how to 'please and 'thank you'.

Pack Smart

Europe can have varying weather, so make sure to pack layers, including a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Keep in mind that many European countries have strict luggage weight limits on flights, so pack only what you need.

Try Local Cuisine

Europe is known for its delicious food and drinks. Don't be afraid to try local specialities and traditional dishes, and be sure to sample the local wines and beers.

Use Public Transportation

Public transportation is often the most efficient way to get around in Europe. Consider getting a multi-day pass for the subway, bus, or train to save money.

Europe Tour Companies

With way too many tour companies in Europe to choose from, it's always a good idea to do your research and read reviews before booking a tour.

Collette

Offers guided tours for all ages, with a focus on immersive cultural experiences with a range of tours across Europe, including city tours, river cruises, and heritage tours.

Contiki

Offers guided tours for young adults aged 18 to 35, with a focus on adventure, socializing, and budget-friendly travel. Contiki offers a wide variety of tours across Europe, including city tours, camping tours, and ski and snowboard tours.

EF Ultimate Break

Specializes in tours for college students and young adults, with a focus on adventure and cultural immersion.

G Adventures

Offers small group tours with a focus on sustainable tourism, cultural immersion, and adventure. Tours by G Adventures are designed for travellers of all ages and offer a range of activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching, as well as cultural experiences such as cooking classes and homestays.

Insight Vacations

With a range of tours across Europe, including city tours, food and wine tours, and heritage tours Insight Vacations offers luxury guided tours with a focus on cultural experiences and fine dining.

Intrepid Travel

Offers small group tours with a focus on responsible travel and sustainable tourism. Intrepid Travel tours include a range of activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching, as well as cultural experiences such as cooking classes and homestays.

Kensington Tours

Customized private tours for travellers who want a personalized itinerary and a high level of service. Kensington Tours offer a range of tours across Europe, including city tours, food and wine tours, and luxury tours.

Rick Steves' Europe

Offers small group tours with a focus on cultural experiences and local interactions. Rick Steves is a travel writer and public television personality who has been offering tours to Europe for over 30 years.

Topdeck

Offers tours for travellers aged 18 to 39, with a focus on adventure and socializing. They offer a range of tours across Europe, including city tours, camping tours, and ski and snowboard tours.

Trafalgar

Offers a wide variety of guided tours for all ages, with a focus on cultural experiences, history, and local interactions. Trafalgar have been in business for over 70 years and offer tours to a variety of destinations in Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, and more.