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If you’re planning a trip to Europe, you know it’s going to be the best vacation ever. But let’s face it: there are so many great places in Europe that choosing which one to visit first can be overwhelming. We’re here to help! Read on for our insider tips on some of the lesser-known but absolutely incredible places in Europe that you should add to your itinerary ASAP.
Amsterdam
This is a no brainer. Amsterdam is one of the most Instagrammable cities in the world and is known for its canals, architecture and gourmet food. Not to mention, it is one of the safest cities in the world. Amsterdam has something for everyone and is a great place to travel with children. There are countless museums, bike rides and activities for children of all ages. And if you want to get away from the crowds, head to the coast, where the beaches are mostly empty. Amsterdam is a great place to visit in spring and summer when the tulips are in bloom. In the fall, pumpkins, apples, and other fall-themed treats can also be found. And in winter, you can visit Dutch-style ice skating.
Berlin
You may have heard about Berlin’s history as one of the most important cities in Europe, but did you know that it is now also a great place to visit? This modern metropolis is home to some of the world’s most innovative companies and advanced technology. There are plenty of great museums, such as the iconic Berlin Wall Museum, and numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling. If you’re visiting in winter, be sure to check out the Berlin Cycle Classic, a road race featuring over 1,000 amateur cyclists. And in the summer, visit the Berlin Carnival, one of the world’s largest street festivals.
Budapest
Budapest is a beautiful city that feels like a cross between Europe and Asia. The architecture here is breathtaking and the streets are filled with outdoor cafes, bars and shops. Wander the streets of the city’s former Jewish quarter or visit one of the many gardens. There are also plenty of museums to inspire you, from the Museum of Fine Arts to the House of Terror Museum. And in winter, experience the Budapest Winter Festival, a celebration of music, dance and art that takes place in the park in the center of the city.
Helsinki
If you’re looking for a European city that’s more minimalist than the rest, look no further than Helsinki. Known for its cleanliness, this Scandinavian city is home to some of the most beautiful parks in Europe, as well as a thriving arts scene. Visit Helsinki Cathedral, known for its beauty, or head to the Helsinki Art Museum to view some of the city’s most important works of art. If you want to experience Finnish culture, visit Lapland in winter when you can see reindeer, huskies and other northern animals up close.
Rome
If you’ve ever dreamed of just walking around Rome and immersing yourself in the culture, this is the place for you. The city has so much to offer, from the Vatican to parks full of famous sculptures. In the summer, you can visit the Roman Festival here, a 10-day celebration of classical music, dance and art performances. In winter, you can experience the Carnival of Rome, when you see more than 100,000 people in the streets.
Dublin
Dublin is a great place to visit in spring or summer as the city is dotted with flowers. But in winter it really shines when the buildings and streets are decorated with festive lights. There are also plenty of activities for children, such as a stroll through the streets of Dublin with the storytellers at the Dublin Storytelling Festival or a visit to the Dublin City Museum. You can also experience Irish culture at the Guinness Storehouse, where you’ll learn about the history of brewing. And in winter you can experience Irish culture at the Dublin Winter Festival, a celebration of music, dance and food.
Paris
Located in one of the most picturesque cities in the world, Paris is a dreamy place to visit. Experience the city’s romantic history in the many museums or head to the beach for one of the most beautiful views in the world. In winter, experience the Paris Carnival, a celebration of music, dance and food that takes place in the streets of the city. If you are visiting in the summer, be sure to visit the Paris Book Fair, one of the largest international book fairs in the world.
London
There are few cities like London, which is a beautiful, modern city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern architecture. You can explore this city on foot or on one of the many tours available, or rent a bike and explore on your own. In winter, experience the London Christmas Market, one of the largest Christmas markets in the world. In the summer you can also visit the London Festival of Culture, a celebration where you can enjoy music, theatre, visual arts, literature and film.
More places to visit in Europe
These places are popular, beautiful places to visit in Europe, but they are perhaps a little less well known than the top 5 we mentioned above. So, if you are still planning your trip, try these places!
Brussels
Brussels is a vibrant city in Belgium with some of the most interesting architecture in Europe. In summer, visit the Brussels Summer Festival, a celebration of music, dance and food, and in winter, experience the Brussels Winter Festival, a celebration of music, dance and food.
Amsterdam and the Dutch countryside
If you only have time for a day trip from Amsterdam, consider heading to the nearby Dutch countryside. The Hollandse Hooglandse Kust is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of canals, windmills and Dutch architecture. There are also numerous beaches along the coast.
Copenhagen
Denmark is another country that is often overlooked when people think of European travel, but it is a fascinating place to visit. Head to Copenhagen in the summer to see the city’s vibrant architecture, waterfront, and museums. And in winter, visit the Copenhagen Book Fair, one of the largest international book fairs in the world.
Dublin and the Emerald Coast
If you only have time for a day trip from Dublin, consider heading to the nearby Emerald Coast. The Irish coast has some of the best beaches in Europe, but there are also plenty of fun things to do in the area. You can visit the Twelve Apostles, an iconic rock formation that has been visited by countless writers and artists.
Florence and the Italian Peninsula
Florence is often overlooked when people think of European travel, but it is a fascinating place with some of the most important art in the world. In the summer, visit the Florence Festival, a 10-day celebration of classical music, dance, and art performances. In winter, visit the Carnival of Florence, one of the largest winter festivals in Europe.
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