Dreaming of a holiday to Europe? With over 40 countries to choose from, the ultra-diverse continent is filled with beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re a history buff or love to visit art galleries and explore cities, Europe is the perfect destination for your next trip. To help you decide where to fly to, here are five gorgeous spots that need to be on your bucket list.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini, known as Thira in Greek, is an island paradise in the Cyclades fully embraced by the Aegean sea. Experience picture-perfect views with whitewashed homes clinging to the cliffside. The complex of islands is still technically on an active volcano, with the last big eruption being around 3,600 years ago.
Enjoy the crystal clear waters and explore its towns perched high up on the landscape. A perfect romantic getaway destination, walk along the volcano of Nea Kameni and experience some of Greece’s exceptional culinary offerings. For a fine dining experience with all the trimmings head to Santorini’s popular Selene Restaurant in Pygros village.
Colmar, France
In northeastern France in the Grand Est region, you’ll find the town of Colmar filled with medieval and early Renaissance buildings. Great for wine lovers with local vineyards specializing in Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines. Colmar is perfect for all ages and one of the most beautiful regions in all of Europe.
Discover the Musée d’Unterlinden which showcases works of art from the 12th to the 16th century. Grab a coffee from one of the many delightful cafes and explore Colmar’s old quarter. The town’s history and culture are rich so its best to get a guided tour so you can properly understand and explore the whole area. A trip to Colmar wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Little Venice, south of the center is a picturesque area of tanners and winemakers who have made the waterfront their home. Take an unforgettable boat trip from the quay.
Valencia, Spain
Located on Spain’s southeastern coast, Valencia is made up of a combination of Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic architecture. You’ll find boutique clothing stores, charming cafes and restaurants filling the cobbled streets. Visit the City of the Arts and Sciences for first-class attractions for the whole family including an IMAX Cinema, a botanical collection of native plant species and a planetarium.
A perfect trip for foodies, prepare for your taste buds to be blown away with paella, fresh seafood, and delicious sangria. After the sun goes down, live music and entertainment bursts out from the small alleys. If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife, there’s strong cocktails and wines to keep you going. For live jazz music and dancing meander through the streets of El Carmen in the heart of the old town.
Hvar Island, Croatia
Croatia is renowned for its gorgeous cities including Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar. Hvar Island in the Adriatic Sea is a truly stunning destination with travelers flocking from all over the world to experience its crystal clear waters, sunshine, cultural heritage and gastronomic delights.
If you love being on the water, enjoy a catamaran tour and explore the blue cave. If you prefer to be on land, be sure to visit the fortress of Hvar and the Franciscan Monastery. Explore the village of Brusje and experience a Hvar wine tour followed by dinner. Popular dinner spots include Dalmatino, Agava, and Lucullus.
Piran, Slovenia
A beautiful city on the Slovenian coast, Piran is well-known for its Venetian architecture, long pier, and fantastic scenery. Its Old Town area is one of the most well-preserved historical towns on the Adriatic. The city can get quite busy during the summer months so try and travel during the off-peak season if possible. Spend your day getting lost down winding paths and alleyways.
Piran is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea and you’ll never be more than a 10-minute walk from its cool waters. Perfect for taking a refreshing dip during the hot days. There’s plenty of sight-seeing to be done while visiting, be sure to visit St George’s Church Campanile. Not only is the building itself stunning but you’ll find panoramic views of the city. If you’re looking for a spot to watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail, look no further than Spuzva Beach Bar.
Europe has so much to offer whether you’re after an adventurous weekend city break or a two-week all inclusive holiday. With all that major travel inspiration what better time to start planning your next trip!
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