European Destinations
Austria
Austria's cities are like living museums, full of life and innovation, and capturing the romance and history of Europe in a way that gives you a glimpse into how royals lived in past centuries. Austria is renowned for its majestic mountains, lavish ski resorts, stunning scenery, crystal lakes and lush valleys. The country is filled with romantic palaces, charming inns and coffeehouses, and historic Baroque churches. If you are dazzled by the Alpine splendor of its setting, or delighted by the storybook charm of its arcaded Baroque streets, then it will probably not surprise you that Emperor Maximilian I chose to rule the Holy Roman Empire from Innsbruck. Salzburg's historic city center was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1997. Birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the city offers a sophisticated cultural program that features more than 4,000 events each year. Vienna, the capital of Austria, has become the epicenter of old and classical as well as new and hip. No matter which direction you walk in Vienna, you will be faced with an enormous architectural range of buildings. Traditional coffeehouses, famous Viennese desserts, and taking in a concert or two are a must here.
Belgium
Bustling Brussels is famed for its museums, architecture, shopping, dining and of course, Belgian chocolate and lace. The "capital of Europe", this vibrant cosmopolitan city is home to the European Union (an international organization representing 25 European countries) and is often referred to as the continent's Washington, DC.
Czech Republic
Prague is one of the most popular destinations in eastern Europe. Built on a river, this charming and romantic city is much beloved by artists, photographers, visitors and historians. The Czech Republic’s beautiful capital has been referred to as an outdoor museum since its architecture and historic center remains as it did 600 years ago, untouched by war. Prague is a city easily explored on foot as all of the attractions, including the Castle District and the Old and New Town, are a quick stroll from the city’s center. The city is also very popular for its music and art scene which offers a variety of musical events such as classical concerts, opera and ballet, as well as for its many museums and art galleries.
Denmark
Home of storyteller Hans Christian Anderson, this cozy Danish capital of elegant spires and cobbled streets is a walker's paradise. You can easily enjoy its many boutiques, cafes and stylish restaurants. Don't miss the renaissance Rosenborg Castle, housing the Crown Jewels and fascinating royal memorabilia. Tivoli, noted for its magical nighttime illumination, offers diverse entertainment including a pantomime theater, open-air stage and classical, jazz and rock concerts. A highlight of Copenhagen's culture is the Danish Royal Ballet, one of the world's great companies.
England
London, the cosmopolitan capital of England, is a city rich with history, ground-breaking architecture and culture. With over 200 museums and galleries, 30,000 shops, 3,800 pubs, 143 parks and gardens, and countless dining and entertainment options throughout the city, there has never been a better time to visit this vibrant metropolis. London is very accessible; it has five international airports and extensive Underground, train, bus and taxi services. The city of Bath is one of England's tourist gems. This historic city has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and presents some of the finest architectural sights in Europe, most notably the famous Roman Baths. The Baths are not alone in being one of many great tourist attractions to be housed all within the boundaries of one city- take for example the ancient thermal springs, which are now numbered as one of the UK top five tourist attractions. From the moment you arrive you will feel the wealth of heritage and soak up the culture in one of the UK's best loved cities. The historic inland port of Bristol is just across the Bristol Channel from Wales and has long been rich in seafaring traditions with many links to the early colonization of America. In 1497, John Cabot sailed from Bristol and pioneered the discovery of the northern half of the New World. Today, the old port and harbor areas have been restored and are home to waterfront pubs, cafes and restaurants. Exeter is an historic Cathedral and University city. It is also the County town of Devon and is a business, legal, retail, tourist and commercial center for the region. The city has a population of around 111,000 but serves a 45 minute catchment of nearly half a million people. Exeter has a rich and varied heritage of buildings and townscape. It has grown from Roman origins and displays the benefits from long prosperity, particularly during the 16th, 17th and early 18th centuries. Despite the destruction of a quarter of the city center during the Second World War, there remains much which is worthy of preservation and enhancement. Within the city there are 15 conservation areas of which the Central and Riverside areas are preeminent: they include the Cathedral of St. Peter, the City Wall, Rougemont Castle and the Canal Basin and Quay area. There are over 1600 listed buildings and many more which are locally important. Exeter's historic core has been designated as an Area of Archaeological Importance, one of only 5 such areas in England and Wales. One of the largest cities in England, the hip city of Manchester is famous for leading the music scene in the U.K. But while Manchester continues to have a vibrant musical culture with great live music venues, it also has a strong tradition of football (known as soccer in the U.S.) and is home to the Manchester United, one of the strongest football teams in the United Kingdom. Home to one of the greatest universities in the world, Oxford is a majestic and romantic city. Harry Potter fans will be delighted to visit Bodleian Library at Oxford University, famous for appearing in the Harry Potter movies as Hogwarts dining room and library, and the Great Hall of Christ Church College which doubles as Hogwarts School. Another literary thrill is that Lewis Carroll was inspired to write Alice's Adventures in Wonderland while looking out these windows. In addition to Carroll, Oxford has been home to many best-loved authors, like C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and Philip Pullman. Southampton holds a wealth of attractions for visitors to the city. From the Pilgrim Fathers departures to the Americas, Medieval Walls surrounding the city, to its historic wartime importance and the home of the Spitfire and its historic links with the tragic story of RMS Titanic. The historic city of Southampton is a vibrant destination alive with its rich heritage, culture and a lively programme of events. If you're looking to enjoy the finest shopping, history, culture, entertainment and leisure, there's no better place than Southampton. It really is the jewel of the South. Ideally situated for exploring some of the most breathtaking coast and countryside in the south of England. Stratford may be synonymous with William Shakespeare, but there's more here than just the birthplace of the Bard. You can be transported in time by driving a shire horse and cart around the Shire Horse Center or take a ferry across the River Avon to the waterside. Of course, one of the major draws for visitors is the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where England's most prestigious actors perform. More than 1,000 years after the Vikings took over the city from the Romans, York still retains the flavor of a medieval city with cobblestone streets, a huge Gothic cathedral and no cars in the city center. It is encircled by 2 miles of fortification walls dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The most famous attraction by far is the majestic York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world, completed in 1472 after more than 250 years in the making.
Finland
Helsinki, Finland There is a strong Russian influence in this gracious city of pastel-colored, neoclassical buildings, with lovely parks by the sea and spacious boulevards. The hub of daily activity is the colorful outdoor Market Square, located on the harbor. The Ateneum Art Museum is the country's most impressive, containing the works of renowned Finnish artists as well as Chagall, Degas and Van Gogh. Be sure to take in Helsinki's "Tourist Islands", featuring more museums, a zoo and a recreational park.
France
Europe's most glamorous cosmopolitan city is also one of the most romantic cities in the world. Few cities have the ability to excite and seduce its visitors as Paris does. The City of Lights may seem daunting but regardless, you will immediately become mesmerized and fall in love. Take a romantic stroll along the Champs-Elysees or the Seine River, spend a lazy afternoon in a Parisian cafe, or take a tour of The Louvre, the world's largest palace and museum and home to the greatest art collections in the world. Other must-sees include the omnipresent Eiffel Tower, the elegant Jardin des Tuileries and the Jardin du Luxembourg, the sophisticated shops and the stylish residents. Home of the International Film Festival, Cannes is synonymous with celebrity, sophistication and a joie de vivre. Cosmopolitan Cannes, however, is not just a pretty resort face. It has much more to offer; more than 60 museums, monuments and gardens to visit, and a wide array of watersports along its famous beaches. Even if you don't buy anything, you'll want to window-shop its ultra-chic stores, favored by the rich and famous. Do peruse the Forville fruit, vegetable and fish market if only to inhale its riches. As the historic crossroads connecting trade routes from the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, Carcassone is a focal point of European culture. In fact, its delectable cuisine reflects the best of French, Spanish and Italian influences. While local history dates back to the 6th century B.C., the city's most famous attraction is its medieval walled city - majestically preserved to carry you back in time to the days of chivalry. The gated section of Bastide Saint-Louis similarly preserves the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods. Whether you tour the vineyards and country estates around Carcassone or take a stroll along the historic Midi Canal, history will guide you while the sunny skies of southern France shine upon you. A French star among the many resorts, Nice is one of the oldest cities in France. Its casinos and resort facilities give the capital of the Cote d' Azur an air of sophistication, but also an old world charm that bears a strong Italian influence. Walk amid its open-air markets on small winding streets, particularly the flower market, if only to take in the lavender fragrances for which the region is known. Taste a beignet and hop a trolley that rolls past the pastel-colored buildings of Old Nice. You'll understand why artists such as Matisse and Chagall chose to live and paint here.
Germany
Located in the heart of Europe and bordering nine countries, Germany has the look of a fairy tale: snow-capped mountains, turreted castles, mysterious forests and charming medieval villages. Germany's scenery ranges from sandy beaches to towering mountains, forests, lakes and some of Europe's most vibrant cities. Each of the country's 16 states offer distinct regional foods and a huge choice of local wines and beers. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the city has become a breeding ground for artistic innovation. Grand hotels have reasserted themselves on Gendarmenmarkt or Unter den Linden. Architects have re-created museum spaces while this international stage has attracted investors from all over the world. New among the attractions are: I.M. Pei's Deutsches Historisches Museum and Daniel Libeskind's famous Jewish Museum. Passenger boats offer an easy way to view the city's developments by cruising the Spree River. Berlin boasts a total of 1,700 bridges, across the Havel and Spree Rivers and the tiny canals in between. Known primarily as a commercial center, this affluent port city is also home to the Imperial Cathedral that has been the coronation site for the sovereigns of the Holy Roman Empire. Today, Frankfurt recalls its illustrious past in some 40 museums, many of which are clustered about the Main River bank, and is the home of a variety of skilled artisans and tradespeople. As Germany's second largest city, Hamburg lives up to its reputation for being elegant, cosmopolitan and "cutting edge", after all, this is the city that put the Beatles on the map. It has more bridges than Venice and Amsterdam combined. Hamburg is also home to world-famous museums, converted covered markets and several art auction houses and galleries. And as Germany's greenest city, over 50 percent of its area is covered in parks, woods and nature reserves. Set on the River Neckar, Heidelberg is another of Germany's most beautiful towns. Germany's first university was established here, and the city has inspired many of Germany's poets and composers who lauded the natural beauty of the mountains, forests and vineyards that surround the city. Munich is the capital of Bavaria, set on the bank of the Isar River, and is the site of the Oktoberfest and the Hofbrauhouse. Sip beer in Munich's famed beer gardens, tour the Nymphenburg Palace, and visit the Alte Pinakothek, one of the world's most famous art galleries.
Greece
Ancient Greece was the home of Zeus and his fellow gods and you will certainly be reminded of that when you visit Athens' Parthenon and Delphi's Temple of Apollo. Greece was also the birthplace of the Games. Other famous Greek births include science, math, philosophy and democracy. But modern Greece is less a center of learning and more of a destination of simple, happy pleasures. If you want to relax and unwind or socialize and make new friends, this is the country for you. Here you will find delicious food and wine, beautiful beaches, charming villages, an endless coastline and little islands full of surprises. The myriad of islands in the Aegean Sea offers you a unique chance for island-hopping and partying. The Greek people are very welcoming, and famous for their warm hospitality. The landscape of Greece is varied, ranging from cool mountainous regions and coastal hills to plains and sun-drenched, rocky islands. The Acropolis, situated on a great hill in the center of Athens, is also at the center of Western civilization. Here, in buildings like the inspiring Parthenon, Socrates, Plato and Aristotle contributed to the birth of modern thought some 2,400 years ago. A city of immense size has grown around these ruins, with the opportunity to see more fascinating antiquities in its many splendid museums. Acquire your own treasures in the form of distinctive Greek jewelry, and savor traditional Greek music and dance in the city's spirited nightspots. Crete, the largest of Greece, is a place with tall mountains, fertile valleys and clean beaches. It offers many surprises in its changing nature... forests of palm trees meet tall mountains, then majestic plateaus and then the sea. This land of history, culture and feasts offers you its smile and welcomes you in the mysterious yet familiar world of the Cretans. On Mykonos you will find beautiful beaches, chic boutiques, and elegant nightclubs. Beneath its sophisticated surface, lies a quite essential Greek island. Hundreds of tiny chapels dot this blue and white-washed island with its beautiful windmills. Find a table on the waterfront and bask in the serenity of sunset over its picturesque harbor. Rhodes, the beautiful "Island of Roses" has a rich and varied history. On a hill above the charming town of Lindos rises an ancient acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena. Below lies the bay of St. Paul, where the apostle landed during his voyages. The crusading Knights of St. John left the medieval city of Rhodes behind when they were defeated by Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent. The Ottoman Turks then occupied Rhodes for almost 400 years leaving mosques, minarets and a Turkish bath to mark their presence. The island of Santorini is perhaps the most breathtaking of all the Greek Islands. The town of Fira's white-washed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes and glittering boutiques cling to steep cliffs, accessible by cable-car or mule. To the south is Akrotiri where recent Minoan excavations support the theories that Santorini might be the fabled lost continent of Atlantis.
Hungary
Hungary's romantic and elegant capital city was originally two separate cities built on either side of the Danube River, named Buda and Pest. Now united as one magnificent city, Budapest is filled with grand old buildings and elegant bridges, and is considered the "Paris" of Eastern Europe. Although the two districts have been combined, they still retain their distinct differences and personalities. Buda, the older, more charming part, has cobbled streets, colorful homes and medieval buildings. Pest, the commercial side of the city, is the fashionable part of town with stylish, chic shopping and picturesque tree-lined boulevards.
Ireland
From breathtaking countryside to vibrant cities, Ireland's legendary warm welcome and charming humor are just two of the many reasons to visit this gem of a country. Ireland's diversity, coupled with its exceptional history and culture, provides visitors with a legacy of monuments, settlements and buildings to enjoy. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Ireland's vibrant and ever-changing capital is one of the top destinations in Europe. Yet despite its fast growing popularity and prosperity, Dublin remains one of Europe's friendliest, most down-to-earth, and accessible cities. Dublin is divided by the River Liffey and is a city that lends itself to walking tours. The prosperous, popular side of Dublin is south of the Liffey and features top hotels, restaurants, attractions and shops including the trendy riverside area of Temple Bar, and the hot shopping district "Old City." The city also has one of the best pub and club scenes in Europe ranging from trendy modern cafe bars to historic pubs. Throughout the year, Dublin is host to a variety of musical, sporting and cultural events including the world's largest St. Patrick's Day Festival. The largest county in Ireland, Cork is famous for magnificent scenery along its jagged coastline. Cork City, Ireland's second-largest city, is a laid-back, relaxed place, where you can enjoy great music, theatre and visual arts. Food lovers can sample local specialties in some of Cork's excellent restaurants. A famous attraction in Cork is Blarney Castle, one of Ireland's oldest and most historic castles, and home to the infamous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that anyone who kisses the famous stone high up on the castle will be endowed with the "gift of persuasion and flattery." But be warned, to kiss the stone you will have to lie on your back, bend backwards and turn upside down. Cork is also famous for being the last stop of the Titanic before its fateful journey in 1912. Ireland's fastest growing city is also its most appealing. Home to artists, writers, and artisans, Galway has earned its reputation as the unofficial arts capital of Ireland. Galway is a city full of life, and its residents' enthusiasm is infectious. You will leave the city singing and wishing you had spent more time. Killarney is the commercialized, tourist center of Ireland. While this small, compact city offers little architectural interest, the real reason so many flock here is for the stunning and breathtaking surrounding landscape, spectacular lakes and woodlands which are part of the picturesque, 25,000 acre Killarney National Park. Limerick is a busy, bustling city in the midst of an exciting makeover and renaissance. Compact and completely walkable, most of the city's sights and attractions are within a stone's throw of each other. Recently, Limerick has seen a growth in the number of trendy cafes and international cuisines. Native son Frank McCourt's best-selling novel, Angela's Ashes, immortalizes the city.
Italy
Built on seven hills, Rome is an unforgettable encyclopedia of living history. Everywhere you look, you will be overwhelmed by the powerful reminder that ancient Rome was the center of the civilized world. A city of contrasts, the magic of Rome lies in its talent to blend the old with the new. While empires have risen and fallen, Rome remains as vibrant as ever. The Eternal City is filled with things to do and see and after your visit, you will be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Rome is certainly a city where you will get your cultural fill but be sure to allow time for more self-indulgent concerns, eating, drinking wine, basking in the sunshine and enjoying open air concerts, ballet, opera performances, live rock and jazz. The Isle of Capri has captured the imagination of visitors for centuries. A mountainous island, known for its sea caverns, the most famous of which is the Blue Grotto. The lower town of Capri zigzags with narrow winding streets and interminably long staircases taking you from one part of town to the next. Travelers usually enter the city at the bustling Piazzetta Umberto below the famous clock tower. Looking more like a little courtyard, it is packed with little cafe tables a great place for people-watching and breathing in the aroma of this spectacular panorama above the sea. Shaped like a wishbone, Lake Como lies at the foot of the Alps, making it an idyllic vacation resort. Its lakeside towns and tiny villages are easily reached by many passenger boats that operate up and down the lake. Opulent villas hug its shoreline. The charming lakeside town of Como is a short train ride from Milan. One of the world's most architecturally beautiful cities, it is not surprising that the elegant, fashionable and picturesque city of Florence is bursting with life. Nestled below the wooded foothills of the Apennines, along the banks of the Arno River, this capital of the Tuscany region is located on Italy's northwest coast. Founded in 59 B.C. as a settlement for retired Roman soldiers, Florence retains its old-fashioned spirit and will make you feel as if you were transported back in time. Countless museums and galleries are filled with masterpieces by Botticelli, Brunelleschi, da Vinci and Michelangelo while great shopping and delicious cuisine make Florence a popular vacation spot. Most of the sights you'll want to see are within walking distance of the Duomo cathedral in the city center. The heart of the city is the Piazza de Duomo and the Piazza della Signoria where statues commemorate major historical events of the city's life. Next door, the Uffizi is the oldest gallery in the world, with a collection of the greatest works of the Renaissance commissioned largely by the Medici family. Shopping, dining and partying are serious business in chic Milan, Italy's most sophisticated and prosperous city. This financial and commercial center of Italy attracts fashionistas, world-famous designers, business leaders, opera lovers and other fans of all ages. The city is also home to many artistic treasures including the restored "Last Supper" by Leonardo da Vinci as well as the majestic Duomo, the world's largest Gothic cathedral, presiding over the Piazza that bears its name. Milan is also home to the world's most beautiful shopping mall, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Naples is an unforgettable experience. Set around the beautiful Bay of Naples in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is the third-largest city in Italy and capital of the south. One of Europe's most populated cities, it is chaotic, overcrowded and noisy, yet this is part of its unique charm. Its enchanting narrow streets are filled with endless rows of churches, a medieval university, street markets and hundreds of cafes and bars. Pizza was invented in Naples in the 18th century so make sure you sample some and other delicious Neapolitan treats such as calzone. Located in an amazing spot along the southern tip of the Amalfi coastline, picture-perfect Positano is one of the most popular seaside resort destinations in Italy. Like many European resorts, it began as a fishing village that was visited by painters, writers and bohemians until a full-scale tourism industry was born. An hour's drive from Naples, Positano has been described as heaven between the sea and the sky. Sorrento is an elegant and sophisticated seaside resort perched on cliffs above the Bay of Naples, with unbelievable views. Piazza Tasso, the main square built over a ravine with the ruins of an old watermill at the bottom, represents the heart of town, and is filled with friendly bars and restaurants. Tuscany is home to the scenery and the magical light that captivated artists for centuries. Savor the tranquility of the soft-edged countryside lined with slender cypress trees, rolling hills, Etruscan walls, medieval villages and small patches of farms. Join its people to share the Tuscan culture's cuisine, its olives, cheeses and wines sipped on verandas overlooking breathtaking scenery. Built on 117 small islands at the northern end of the Adriatic Sea, Venice is unlike any other city in the world. No matter how many times you have seen photos of it, nothing will prepare you for the real thing. You must walk everywhere in Venice and where you can't walk, you go by water. Venice has 150 canals and more than 400 bridges, and its historic center is divided into six quarters. The main thoroughfare is the Grand Canal that intersects each of the six quarters as it twists along the length of Venice. One of the best ways to explore the architectural beauty of the city is by a romantic gondola ride along the Grand Canal allowing you a unique vantage point to admire palaces and buildings along the water. While you can easily spend weeks visiting Venice and the lagoon islands, the city is also a popular weekend destination. Some of the most beautiful gardens of camelias, azaleas and verbena are found along the shores of the enchanting Borromean islands at the center of Lake Maggiore, Italy's second longest lake, that stretches into Alpine Switzerland. Up the western coast of the lake is Stresa, a resort filled with villas and lush gardens. Milan and Malpensa Airport are a short drive from this area. Sicily's most famous resort town and its most picturesque, Taormina, boasts the most photographed image in Sicily, across the beautiful ancient Greek amphitheatre to the sea with Mount Etna in the background. The town hugs the edge of a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea. Taormina is also known for its charming, winding medieval streets and tiny passages hiding great restaurants, cafes and ice cream shops, hidden gardens and terraces with great views of the sea. It's a great place to shop with thousands of boutiques selling crafts, fashions and unique jewelry.
Monte Carlo
Champagne sipped on balconies above a sparkling sea, a yacht in the shimmering moonlight, sumptuous dining by candlelight, an elegant hotel room, breakfast in bed, palaces, princesses and charming princes... those are some of the cues that spell fairytale. Monaco may be tiny in size, but it is big in romantic appeal. A playground for the world's elite, Monaco also boasts the world's most exclusive casino, exotic gardens, remarkable museums, world-class events and glass-bottomed boat excursions. Don't miss the Monaco Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium that Jacques Cousteau headed for 30 years. See his deep-sea diving gear and explore spectacular coral reef systems, marine mammal life and an impressive shark tank.
The Netherlands
Amsterdam is a charming, liberal and easygoing city that has a reputation as being a hedonistic destination, but Amsterdam deserves more credit than that. The compact city, easily explored by foot, is home to some of Europe's finest museums and attractions and is also popular for its restaurants, flower markets, bookstores and cafes.
Norway
Visitors to this region of Northern Europe experience strong immigrant roots, modern European values and the great outdoors like none other. Its residents are some of Europe’s most prosperous and literate, and each of its unique cities are remarkably big, lively and distinct. Set against the sparkling waters of the Oslo Ford, this city has an abundance of charming parks and suburbs. It also has many first-rate museums, including the Kon-Tiki Museum that displays adventurer Thur Heyerdahl's legendary ocean raft. Stroll the grounds around the King of Norway's palace or visit the unique Vigeland Sculpture Park. With glorious natural surroundings, Oslo is perfect for fishing, camping and some of the world's best cross-country skiing. The city's pubs and jazz spots attract a trendy, young crowd.
Poland
Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is one of central Europe’s most beautiful, yet underrated cities. Almost completely destroyed by Nazis during World War II, the city has been completely restored and rebuilt. Today, Warsaw is home to an impressive cultural scene, plentiful museums, historical monuments, galleries, a wide variety of restaurants and cafes and a growing nightlife. Divided into two halves by the Vistula River, the majority of the attractions, including the Old Town, lie on the west bank. Although much of Warsaw has been rebuilt, there still exists buildings, castles, palaces and churches saved from destruction, that give hint to Poland’s grand past.
Portugal
Picturesque Portugal shares the Iberian Peninsula with Spain and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west. The country's compact size makes it easy for visitors to uncover all the beauty and charm that it possesses. Popular for sandy beaches, friendly natives, delicious cuisine, exciting nightlife and quaint villages, Portugal is only recently being rediscovered as a vacation destination after having been long overlooked. Portugal represents both modern and traditional Europe evident when you see chic, sophisticated high-rise resorts lining the coast, just a few short miles away from undeveloped medieval villages. The founding of Lisbon dates back to 12th century BC, making it older than Rome and an important international capital. It was from this seaport that the explorations of Vasco da Gama and others led to Portugal's control of half of the New World. Today it is home to splendid art and maritime museums and a 13th century castle, featuring rare white peacocks and black-necked swans in its garden. Fado is a unique, soulful type of singing you will hear while relaxing in Lisbon's cafes. A stay on Madeira Island off the coast of Portugal is what it truly means to get away from it all. Life is slow on the island, with weather serene enough to grow famous Madeira wine. Only cool breezes break up the quiet. An ideal way to see the area is by walking along the levadas, water channels that run through the island's many contours from the rivers to the ridges. More adventurous visitors enjoy hiking the interior mountains and taking in views of the lush surroundings. Nature lovers appreciate Madeira's ample green spaces, which are home to a host of unique seabirds, tropical flowers and fruits. They also enjoy a round of golf on one of the island's courses, or perhaps taking a dip in a saltwater pool or a natural rock pool.
Scotland
From majestic glens, historic castles and ruins and tranquil lochs to exciting concerts and thriving city nightlife, Scotland offers a wide range of things to see and do. Golf, of course, was created in Scotland, so you'll never be far from some of the world's greatest golf courses. Other activities for the athletic visitor include mountain climbing, sailing, skiing, snowboarding and canoeing. Scotland has a number of regions, each with its own distinctive geography and breathtaking scenery. These regions stretch from the Western Isles off the northwest coast of Scotland, across to the Orkneys and Shetland Isles off the north coast, continuing down through the Highlands, and then pass through the Lowlands regions, reaching Dumfries and Galloway and the borders in the south of the country. Edinburgh's Georgian architecture has earned it a World Heritage site designation. The Edinburgh Castle, royal residence since the 11th century, dominates the medieval skyline of Scotland's capital. Literary giants Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson are as important to this great city as her majestic Crown Jewels, which are older than England's. History abounds as you stroll down the Royal Mile, where quiet courtyards beckon via narrow passageways, finally arriving at the Holyrood Palace. Evenings provide lots of lively pub entertainment, complete with traditional folk music, bagpipes, kilts and haggis. William "Braveheart" Wallace struck a blow for freedom in Glasgow in 1297. Known for its Victorian elegance and as a great shipbuilding center, Scotland's largest city has taken the splendor of the past and given it renewed luster. Its name means "dear green place," and has more city parks than anywhere else in Britain. It's also an excellent home base for exploring the gardens, pastures, farmlands and forests of the countryside.
Spain
Spain's fun-loving capital is Europe's fourth largest city and is comprised of many different districts, each with its own distinct personality. The city center is compact and easy to navigate on foot or to tour by metro. Most of the sights of interest are found in the downtown area between the Royal Palace and Parque del Retiro. The capital of Spain since 1562, Madrid sits in the geographic center of the Iberian Peninsula and has long been an important stop on any art tour through Europe. Arts and culture are a vital part of Madrid life. There are more than 70 museums and art galleries. The city also boasts great dining experiences featuring a wide variety of international and Spanish cuisine. Its pubs, bars, discos and flamenco clubs are open from dusk until dawn. Before you leave, make sure to head to the Plaza de Toros, Spain's largest bullring. Barcelona is a charming and elegant city that will enchant you from the moment you arrive. The city has become a destination for world-famous architects, many inspired by Barcelona's native son, architect Antonio Gaudi. In fact, the city's skyline is most famous for Gaudi's masterpiece, his unfinished Sagrada Familia cathedral. The most famous street in Spain, the tree-lined boulevard Las Ramblas, is lined with cafes, restaurants and shops, and is usually jam-packed with shoppers. As soon as the sun sets, the city's many bars and restaurants come to life. Dinner is typically between 9:00 pm and midnight, and the bars and nightclubs are open well into the early hours of the morning. Bilbao, Spain's most northern port with ferry connections to many parts of Europe, this city houses one of Frank Gehry's latest architectural gems: the Guggenheim Museum. The titanium-sided Guggenheim Museum glistens in the sun and in its own reflection in the River Nervion. Softening the image, the giant cuchillo (puppy) made of a rainbow of fresh, bright flowers guards the entrance. Since it opened, the museum has attracted one million visitors a year. Located in the Basque province of Spain this city boasts an enormous variety of tapas from hot to cold and is one of the few cities that has earned Michelin stars for its tapas. Cordoba is one of the most fascinating and attractive cities in Andalucia, and not many people know that it was also one of the most multi-culture infused and important European capitals in the 11th century. Recently named one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites, it is best known for its world-famous Moorish mosque, but also full of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses displaying flower-filled balconies, architectural and artistic riches and lively Andalucian tradition. Located in the foothills of the snowcapped Sierra Nevada, Granada offers great winter sport possibilities, yet its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea makes it an ideal place to visit at any time of year. Centuries of history, romance and folklore are present at every turn in the world-famous "Alhambra," beautiful gardens, charming flower-filled streets, magnificent artisanry and popular festivals. The nearby beaches of Costa del Sol are what Malaga is best known for, however there is much more to this bustling town than just sunshine and seashore. The mild off-season climate, lively nightlife, impressive historical remains, magnificent landscapes and picturesque villages make this one of the most popular Spanish vacations spots. Marbella, considered one of Costa del Sol's nicest towns, this former small Andalucian fishing village has evolved into an exciting holiday resort favored by the jet set. The beautiful beaches, inviting climate, lush parks and gardens and Moorish and Andalucian influences make up Marbella's unique personality and provide unforgettable vacation experiences. Seville, Don Juan danced and Figaro barbered here; today, gypsies still sing age-old ballads and flamenco dancers whirl to the melodies of the guitar. Among Seville's greatest charms are its "barrios" or neighborhoods which can best be seen on foot. Stunning sights are on every corner from the 12th century Moorish Alcazar to the 15th century cathedral. Valencia, a sunny "garden" city surrounded by orange groves. Valencia is one of Europe's most fashionable cities. The city is home to an extraordinary Arts and Science center which houses museums, galleries, an oceanarium and theaters. The city comes alive after dark when the wide variety of restaurants and bars feature some of the best seafood in Spain.
Sweden
Often called "the Venice of the North", Stockholm, Sweden's capital city was founded in 1187. Its eclectic architecture juxtaposes the ancient with the ultra-modern, and yet somehow it all works perfectly. To really know the city, you should amble through the Gamla Stan ("Old Town") and see Renaissance structures like the Royal Palace and Parliament. Stockholm embraces the performing arts; enjoy its opera, ballet and philharmonic orchestra. For the more athletic, there are dozens of downhill ski slopes nearby and many paths for hikers and cyclists.
Switzerland
Wealthy, small and mountainous Switzerland has been one of the world's top year-round international vacation destinations for centuries. Bordered by France, Germany, Austria and Italy, Switzerland is renowned for its snowy Alps, fairytale castles, chic and luxurious ski and spa resorts, lakeside chalets, water sports and beautiful, immaculate cities. Switzerland boasts the tallest mountains in Europe, including some of its highest peaks such as Dufour (15,217 feet) and the Matterhorn (14,692 feet). Swiss products famous around the world include cheese, chocolate, watches and Swiss army knives. Zurich, the world's banking capital is the largest city in Switzerland and definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Located on the north shore of Lake Zurich, this picturesque German-speaking town is split in half by the Limmat River. You can spend days exploring the city's cobbled streets, taking in parks and gardens, visiting the plentiful museums housing some of Europe's most extensive collections or setting sail on the lake. Lucerne conjures up images of the storybook Swiss town. Filled with narrow cobblestone streets, covered bridges, charming houses and fountains, it is a renowned cultural and sports community. Considered one of the most beautiful locations in Switzerland, Lucerne's picturesque landscape includes mountains, lakes, pine forests and meadows. Geneva, Switzerland's second largest city, is located on Lake Geneva, in view of Mont Blanc. This cosmopolitan Swiss city is home to the United Nations and the International Red Cross, but because it is located in the southwestern corner of the country and borders France, its biggest influence comes from the French. Chic shops, restaurants, antique stores, bistros, museums and art galleries are plentiful in the city.
Wales
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is only two hours from London. It has become one of the most inviting cities of Britain and has hosted many international sporting and cultural events. It also has a reputation as a town that likes to party and have fun, evidenced by the countless pubs and nightclubs that provide endless entertainment. The waterfront is filled with shops, attractions, cafes and restaurants. There are also many castles and museums that you will enjoy seeing.