Planning a trip to Europe? Famed for its rich history and cultural hotspots, Europe is a truly diverse continent filled with stunning architectural cities, rolling hills, beautiful beaches and so much more. These differences in climate, language and culture make Europe an exciting destination for beginner travellers and the perfect place for adventurers to roam. Check out our list of must-see destinations in Europe and start planning your own trip!
Barcelona
Head to the Spanish city of Barcelona for long summer days and great nightlife. Visit the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia and the Gothic Quarter to revel in the city’s architectural prowess, or head to the waterfront to catch some rays on one of Barcelona’s gorgeous beaches. Plan your visit around one of the city’s many festivals to make it even more memorable.
London
No trip to Europe is complete without a tour of the most famous attractions in London. See the city’s iconic landmarks from the London Eye, visit St Paul’s Cathedral and wander through Westminster Abbey before witnessing the changing of the guard outside Buckingham Palace. Shop ‘til you drop on Oxford Street and spend your evening dining in Leicester Square or checking out gigs in Camden and Shoreditch.
Paris
Travellers visiting Europe for the first time simply can’t go past this gorgeous city. Please your inner art lover or history buff with a visit to the world’s largest museum, The Louvre, or travel back in time in the Catacombs of Paris. Perfect for couples looking for romance, share a kiss underneath the famous Eiffel Tower and share croissants and pastries on the charming terrace of a Parisian cafe. For a complete romantic experience, enjoy a candlelit dinner of French cuisine and a couple of glasses of local champagne.
Amsterdam
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famed for its historic canals and rich heritage. Enjoy a bike ride along the quiet streets and pretty canals to soak up the beautiful architecture of the city. The city is also famous for its Red Light District, bars, coffee shops and party atmosphere. Take a trip to the Van Gogh museum, have a picnic in Vondelpark, or learn about the life of Anne Frank and the Holocaust at Anne Frank Huis.
Berlin
The capital of Germany, Berlin is a city full of history and culture. See where the Berlin Wall fell, pay respects to those who were affected by the atrocities of World War Two at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and take in the beauty of the Brandenburg Gate. Aside from culture and sightseeing, Berlin also has a thriving nightlife and has many bars, pubs and clubs, including the exclusive dance club Berghain, infamous for being very difficult to get into.
Prague
Situated in the Czech Republic, Prague is known for its narrow cobbled streets and laneways, beautiful buildings and wild nightlife. Get lost in the rich heritage and architecture in the Medieval Old Town Square, and remark at the beautiful religious iconography on the Charles Bridge. Be sure to join in on one of the beer crawls operating around the city to see the best pubs and bars and meet fellow travellers!
Budapest
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and is one of the biggest cities in the European Union. Relax at the Széchenyi Bath, the largest medicinal bath in Europe, which is made up of indoor and outdoor pools and supplied by two thermal springs. Budapest also has many grand buildings, like the Buda Castle, which was originally built in 1265, and St. Stephen’s Basilica, a Roman Catholic place of worship built in the 19th century.
Rome
Be sure to stop at the famous Italian city of Rome, a cosmopolitan capital with an ever-present ancient past. See the ruins of the famous Colosseum and Pantheon, or the Forum, the so-called heart of the Roman Empire. Nearby, the official residence of the Pope and home to Michelangelo’s famous painted ceiling, the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City is also a must see. Once you’ve taken in the beauty of Rome, take a train or drive through the Italian countryside around three hours south to see the ruins of Pompeii, the city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
Copenhagen
The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen is a modern city with cultural significance. Marvel at Nyhavn, a 17th century waterfront lined old wooden ships and colourful townhouses. The area is also known as an entertainment district where bustling cafes, bars and restaurants can be found along the canal. See the second oldest theme park in the world, Tivoli Gardens, the National Museum of Denmark and the famous Little Mermaid statue looking out to sea at the Langelinie promenade.
Dublin
Head to the Irish city of Dublin for great nightlife and sightseeing. Walk the cobbled streets and visit the famous Dublin Castle, which dates back to 1204, spot the spire of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and see how Irish art and culture has progressed throughout history at the National Museum of Ireland. Be sure to visit a Dublin pub in the evening and enjoy a celebratory Guinness!
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