You can’t tour all of Europe in one trip, and no one is suggesting you do. Below for context are suggested itinerary options for different regions of the continent, from the Moorish palaces of Spain to Santa Claus’ village above the Arctic Circle.
Great Britain and Ireland
1). London – One of the largest cities in the world absorbs a lot of energy and money because of entertainment and historical sites that have few peers;
2). Cambridge – In the famous university city, you can take a river trip, see university architecture and sit in a student beer hall;
3). York – The ultimate destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in British history, where you can walk from the Viking Museum through medieval streets to the Gothic cathedral and railroad museum;
4). Edinburgh – The Scottish capital has plenty to offer: spectacular cityscape, buzzing bars and an international festival (if you have time);
5). Highlands – Britain’s most mountainous and remote region for those wanting a break from the hustle and bustle;
6) The Lake District – A spectacular area amongst the mountains and lakes with lots of commuters, you won’t get the chance to be alone;
7). Carnarvon Castle – The most impressive and magnificent castle in North Wales;
8). Dublin – Lively pubs, Guinness beer, Georgian architecture and an interesting literary heritage characterize Ireland’s capital city;
9). Galway – For a taste of the Irish spirit, head to this west coast town with its festivals, live music and friendly atmosphere;
10). Giant’s Causeway – Ireland’s longtime landmark is a geological marvel with thirty-seven thousand basalt columns.
France and the Benelux countries
1). Amsterdam – The largest city in the Netherlands for those who want to visit museums, clubs and restaurants;
2). Bruges – The city, perhaps too noisy and crowded, is a gem of Flemish architecture, beautiful canals and buildings;
3). Paris – The most beautiful European capital, where you can sit for a cup of coffee in a café on the left bank of the Seine, make a romantic date with a new friend or visit many museums;
4). Loire Valley – A bucolic valley with beautiful castles;
5). Bordeaux – Beautiful lively city and world famous wine making center with delightful surroundings;
6). Pyrenees – The mountains on the border with Spain offer a refreshing post-wine refreshment and lovely walks;
7). Avignon – The pope’s former residence with its spectacular buildings attracts crowds of tourists who flock to the drama festival held in July;
8). Côte d’Azur (Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez) – These names evoke pleasant associations, it’s a fairy tale come true;
9). Lyon – If the Côte d’Azur isn’t enough for you, the best place to enjoy French cuisine is in this gastronomic capital of the country.
Central Europe
1). Berlin – War, devastation, partition and reunification of the country are all associated with Berlin, where modern architecture and a vibrant nightlife create a unique atmosphere;
2). Dresden – Destroyed during World War II, the baroque city has been meticulously restored and is once again the most beautiful in Germany;
3). Prague – The Czech capital has it all: beautiful architecture, bustling entertainment, great food and drink;
4). Vienna – The former capital of the empire, Vienna has many palaces, museums and gorgeous boulevards, with a wonderful café nearby for a cup of coffee and cakes;
5). Salzburg – A beautiful city with all sorts of entertainment, from Mozart’s music to tours dedicated to the movie The Sound of Music;
6). Matterhorn – Enjoy winter sports at any time of the year at one of Europe’s most famous mountain resorts;
7). Zurich – A typical Swiss city with delightful old buildings, a marvelous lakeside landscape and great cafes;
Iberian Peninsula and Morocco
1). Barcelona – Innovative architecture, city beaches, night bars and the old town are more than enough to keep you here longer than planned;
2). Madrid – Europe’s best museums will occupy your time during the day, and Europe’s best bars and clubs at night. If you dine before 9 p.m., dance until midnight and fall asleep before dawn, you won’t feel the spirit of true Madriders;
3). Lisbon – Portugal’s capital city attracts with its landscape, delicious food and plenty of historical sites;
4). Algarve – The beaches of southern Portugal are incomparable, as is the nightlife;
5). Seville – Learn to dance flamenco, taste great wine or get lost in the ancient Jewish quarter – all of this can be done in Seville, which is the symbol of Spain.