Home to half of the most visited countries in the world, Europe offers a plethora of travel experiences. While it can be difficult to decide which stops to make on a multi-destination European vacation, there are a few factors that make it easier.
Not only can visitors see some of the most recognizable attractions in the world, but they can easily travel between the 26 members of the Schengen Zone on a single visa. Likewise, 20 European states use the Euro, which simplifies budgeting.
A typical European itinerary should include at least one of the top five destinations below.
1. Paris, France
Paris is a diverse metropolis with a deep cultural history idealized the world over. Visitors flock to the city for its high fashion and renowned cuisine. Paris has so many historically significant sights that they cannot be covered all in one day. The Louvre Museum alone could serve as a full-day excursion. Other sights, like the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs- Elysees, and Notre Dame Cathedral also draw tourists.
Of course, the most recognizable Parisian landmark is the Eiffel Tower. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, the tower was meant to stand for only 20 years. Today, it is the symbol of Paris. At night the Eiffel Tower puts on a spectacular light show, delighting the thousands of tourists who visit the site each day.
Since Paris is so popular, flights and hotel prices tend to soar during the summer. However, worker strikes and protests are also more likely during the high season. To get the best prices and experience, it’s recommended to visit Paris in the early fall.
2. Rome, Italy
Rome is truly a blend of the ancient and modern. Centuries-old structures like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum stand alongside modern buildings. Rome is especially popular among art history lovers, who can catch a glimpse of Michelangelo’s work on the Sistine Chapel.
The Italian capital also offers remarkable architecture. At the luxurious Trevi Fountain, visitors toss a coin over their left shoulder. According to legend, this all but assures another visit to Rome.
One unique feature of Rome is that it gives visitors the ability to visit two countries in one go. Vatican City, the smallest nation in the world, is surrounded by Rome on all sides. Visitors can tour the free exhibition or pay to enter the Vatican Museums. Since Rome’s temperatures can become sweltering in the summer, spring and fall are the most popular times to visit.
3. Barcelona, Spain
Located in Northeast Spain, Barcelona has all the best features of a European city. A distinctive look, courtesy of the architect and artist Gaudi, excellent food and wine, and a lively cultural atmosphere are some of the outstanding features of Barcelona.
While Spanish is widely spoken, the official language is Catalan. Visitors can cool off at the famous Barceloneta Beach at the edge of the city.
Barcelona has many interesting landmarks, from the artful Park Guell village to the Golden Fish sculpture designed by iconic architect Frank Gehry. However, the most astonishing sight is arguably Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, a massive basilica in the heart of the city.
The Sagrada has been under construction for more than 140 years. While the basilica is not yet complete, visitors can tour the intricately detailed interior. Those without a fear of heights can also venture to the observatory tower, more than 350 feet off the ground.
Like Rome, Barcelona is known for getting unbearably hot in the summer. The city is also crowded during the high season. That makes early fall the best time of year to head to Barcelona.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
While not as well-known as some other European countries, the Netherlands make a wonderful stop on any travel itinerary. The capital city, Amsterdam, contains row after row of gorgeous 17th-century architecture intersected within miles of canals and bridges.
The most famous landmark in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House, which is the actual building Anne Frank hid in during World War II. Now converted into a museum, the Anne Frank House walks visitors through young Anne’s harrowing experience hiding from invading soldiers.
The temperature in Amsterdam is stable all year round, but the winters can be gray. Summer, spring, and fall are the best times for sightseeing and enjoying the city’s outdoor spaces.
5. Edinburgh, Scotland
The beautiful city of Edinburgh is a hidden European gem. The area is dotted with majestic castles and scenery straight out of a costume drama. Edinburgh is also known for its remarkable greenery.
The biggest tourist attraction is Edinburgh Castle, which has stood since the 12th century. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the Scottish Crown Jewels or take a tour through the War Museum.
While it is outside of the Schengen zone, Americans can enter Scotland without a visa. Due to the city’s long, cold winters, late spring and summer are the best times to travel.