It is every traveler’s dream to explore and expand their horizons deep into the heart of Europe. Archaic yet stunningly gorgeous architecture embodying tales of unforgotten medieval past, flawlessly acclimated into breathtaking sceneries, ravishing nature gardens, beautiful people and European lifestyle best described as pleasantly surreal.
Europe is a travel destination for those with an appreciation for history, culture and deep culinary roots. Seemingly endless array of trotting discoveries awaits those who allow themselves to get lost in its wilderness of timeless glory. Marvel at the passionate displays of the works of history’s greatest masters of art preserved in several of Europe’s most extravagant museums that are frequented by art aficionados from all over the world.
For those who deem themselves connoisseurs in the culinary world, Europe is easily a culinary mecca of exquisite food experiences ranging from freshly baked breads, vibrant pastries and gorgeous sandwiches, to the realm of the culinary elite with Michelin-starred restaurants serving up unique world class offerings that will forever elevate the height of your culinary expectations.
If you are into travel adventures and unraveling personal discoveries, here are 8 European destinations that should be on your travel bucket list. You can also check out our other articles on Europe travels below.
a. 29 Culinary Delights You Have To Try On Your First Paris Trip
b. Smart Ways To Save Money When Traveling To Europe
c. 20 Most Iconic Landmarks in Paris You Must Visit
Paris, France
This French capital and one of the most populous cities in Europe draws in millions of visitors from all over the world each year. Stunning rustic architecture towering above beautiful bridges, monumental museums, sublime public parks and the romantic River Seine running across the city’s oldest bridges that has been around for centuries. Beyond the allure of magnificent landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris is renowned as a global center of art, fashion and exquisite gastronomy culture. Europe’s prime amalgamation of culinary artistry branching from its outlandishly luscious French pastries to indulging in Michelin-starred opulence in Paris’ most exquisite fine dining bistros.
Top things to do when visiting Paris, France
London, United Kingdom
From admiring archaic architecture, vibrant history, visiting museums and immersing into the arts, to nonchalantly delving into the sights and sounds of this electrifying city, London has the perfect marriage of the rustic and the contemporary, ancient history and modern technology, the tellings of centuries’ unfolding while embracing a fast paced modern lifestyle. Visit London’s most remarkable landmarks as the Birmingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, London Eye, Windsor Castle and Big Ben, or take on a culinary adventure with over 18000 restaurants to choose from and a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants to soothe one’s culinary yearnings.
Top things to do when visiting London, United Kingdom
Rome, Italy
Rome is quintessentially one of the world’s most iconic cities with her history spanning thousands of years, and a rich cultural heritage that has influenced the evolution of world culture from a global perspective. Built around 80AD, the world-esteemed Coliseum has managed to surpass some of most perilous passings of time even with its notorious reputation of drawing in public spectacles of bloodshed and executions. Marvel at the towering magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica, built around 16th century AD and revered as the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture. Grandiose architecture exudes the telling of a rich vibrant culture and an enthralling discovery of the historical roots of early Christianity.
Top things to do when visiting Rome, Italy
Venice, Italy
Imagine a floating masterpiece of glorious Venetian architecture, intimate shops and cafes encompassing variegated houses along Venice’s signature waterway. The sun portraying a gleaming sparkle as beautiful Venetian gondolas take you on a romantic voyage across the capital city of Northern Italy’s Veneto region. Within the central square of Piazza San Marco stands Saint Mark’s Basilica, a cathedral church built around the 11th century AD admired for its awe-inspiring Italo-Byzantine style of architecture. Beyond Venice’s many tantalizing perks lies a culinary flair where fresh seafood is nothing but sensational. Owing it to their thriving aquaculture system yielding only the freshest catch each season.
Top things to do when visiting Venice, Italy
Barcelona, Spain
A strong contender among the European elites of travel destinations, this Spanish capital opens up its walls to modern adventurists longing for a thoughtful sampling of the arts, stunning reveal of Gothic and modern architecture, while parading on streets gobbling street food favorites. Strategically placed among Barcelona’s breathtaking sights lies La Sagrada Familia, an unfinished masterpiece of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, one of the greatest figures of Catalan Modernism known for his imaginative yet seemingly impetuous creations. Stroll down central Barcelona’s Placa de Catalunya, a convergence of the city’s major roads ideal for an enervated afternoon people watching and mingling with our feathered friends. As the late hour approaches, live music overwhelms city corners as Barcelona’s wilder side begins to take over and the bars fill with local patrons.
Top things to do when visiting Barcelona, Spain
Picturesque backdrop of whitewashed cubical houses overlaying a quaint panorama created by the turquoise waters of the Aegean sea. This small crescent-shaped archipelago is nature’s unintended outcome chiseled from a catastrophic volcanic eruption, leaving behind a magnanimous volcanic caldera attributed for its photogenic geographical idiosyncrasy. Thanks to its scenic appeal reflected on big screen movies and Instagram-inspired globe trotters, Santorini’s unveiling has earned its spot as a must-travel European destination worldwide. From taking a relaxing hike on Fira’s hiking trail, sampling fine wines at local wineries, to relishing breathtaking sunsets while cruising down the waters below, there’s something uniquely magical and inherently captivating about this Greek island that surpasses pursuits of cultural thrill and architectural admiration.
Top things to do when visiting Santorini, Greece
Prague, Czech Republic
Hidden within the heart of Europe lies a city detailed with historical exuberance and religious prestige. Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic and rightfully nicknamed the Golden City of a Thousand Spires, inspires a mesmerizing journey through its winding streets brimming with rustic architectural allure from all directions. Shadows of former communist rule barely lingers as streets gleam with thriving entrepreneurial ventures and vibrant shops. Traversing through this city perimetered by polychromatic baroque-style framework is the grand Vltava River with a handful of arched bridges connecting the city.
Top things to do when visiting Prague, Czech Republic
Budapest, Hungary
This thriving cosmopolitan located in central Europe stood firm in history through tumultuous times of war and communist regime. The cities Buda and Pest separated by River Danube, once apportioned, now formed a more united Budapest. The grand Széchenyi Chain Bridge stands where residents used to succumb to ferry rides to cross to the other side. A humdrum feat yet known for its many perils during the winter months. The scenery is uniquely gorgeous as the city sprawls with stunning architecture, vibrant city parks, dynamic city markets and invigorating thermal baths frequented by locals and tourists alike.