One of the best things about visiting Europe is that, compared to other areas of the world, everything is packed in very close together. If you have two or three weeks to travel around, it's not hard to visit several different places without wasting too much time on travel. Whether you fly or take the train, a few hours in transit can bring you to a whole different culture and atmosphere. Here are just a few of the incredible and diverse travel destinations that Europe has to offer.
Venice, Italy: Although Venice has a reputation for being overrun with tourists during the peak season, it's still something that everyone should see at least once. There's simply nothing like this dense. automobile-free city full of stunning architecture and incredible landscapes that are the epitome of old European urban grandeur. Get away from the tourist areas for a pleasant evening stroll through Venice's varied streets and tiny alleys.
Bruges, Belgium: Bruges is the perfect embodiment of Northern European gothic charm. Walking through Bruges's streets is like going back 200 years in time and arriving in a place that is safe, welcoming, and culturally rich. This tourist-friendly city is great for international travelers who aren't fluent with the local language. Stroll along the canals, take a break at one of the city's many slow-moving cafes, and try some of the best chocolate in the world, all while surrounded by some of Europe's greatest architectural marvels.
Prague, Czech Republic: Prague is one of the few major Central European cities to have escaped the devastation of the 20th century's wars, and it shows. The city is a perfectly preserved museum of old-time European architecture and urban design. While the city is huge, many visitors are content to stay in the densely packed urban core, which is extremely safe and rich with history and culture.
Paris, France: It's a cliché to say that everyone should visit Paris at least once, but in this case the cliché is spot on. Paris is a thriving metropolis brimming with culture and cosmopolitan flair, but taking a walk through its streets can feel intimate, romantic, and inspiring all at once. And although modern development continues to change the face of the city, its narrow streets and bustling markets and squares are not going anywhere any time soon. In short, Paris is the perfect place to experience everything that Europe has to offer, from the ancient to the modern.
Istanbul, Turkey: Istanbul enjoys a long and varied history going back to its time as the ancient Greek colony of Byzantium, and this long history shows in its streets, markets, and architecture. The huge city has several areas that are commonly overrun by tourists, but there are also plenty of safe districts in which visitors can get away from the bustle and experience the Istanbul of old. This dazzling city may not garner the worldwide attention of Paris and Rome, but it has grandeur, history, and beauty on a similar scale.
Caterina Christakos is a published author and reviewer. Read her latest review of auto insurance estimate quotes and where to get free auto insurance quotes.
