Calais, France - Ghent, Belgium 35 days trip

Linked to England through rail and ferry route, this pleasant town is full of landmarks, lovely architecture, and rich museums.

Explore the artificial isle that comprises the city center, strolling through its medieval streets and enjoying the fresh sea air.

Known as the "Venice of the North," Bruges boasts superb Flemish art, scenic canals, and a prosperous past.

Prepare to be awed while exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a gem of architecture and activity set among the canals.

Don't miss a trip on the canals, which show you the calm side of Bruges, not seen from the sidewalks and streets.

Climb up the 366 steps to the top of this massive 13C belfry to discover where the sound of the bells comes from.

Housed in a 12C hospital, this museum is dedicated to the history of the hospital, and features a collection of Memling artwork and chapel.

One of Belgium's oldest Renaissance castles, Rumbeke Casle is enveloped in interesting history and legend.

A hiking and biking trail, stretching along an old railroad track, full of history from the World Wars along the way.

The whole family will love this amazing nature park, home to several rides as well as over 300 rare animal species.

Home to Benedictine nuns, a visit here transports you to a tranquil space of greenery and modest homes, a break from city life.

Showing off masterpieces of Van Eyck, David, and many others, this museum offers deep insights into particularly 15C-17C Belgium.

Spread among 14C almshouses, this center offers demonstrations, workshops, and a museum that go deep into the art of lacemaking.

One of the best nature reserves in Belgium, it is famous for its salt-resistant flora, small zoo, and great bird-watching.

Belgium's oldest nature reserve is famous for its sea birds, especially storks, which visitors come to see be fed.

With elements of Neo-Romanesque and Gothic architecture, this 10C cathedral remains a stately landmarks in the city's skyline.

Founded in the 13C to house religious women, this architectural complex now houses a Benedictine convent and exudes tranquility.

Dominated by the belfry, this pedestrian square is more popular than ever for business, pleasure, and exploring.

Exquisite architecture dominates this square, from the Gothic town hall, to the Renaissance registry, to the Baroque deanery.

Learn all about the amazing sea life found at this excellent aquarium, including otters, penguins, turtles and sharks among others.

Beautiful throughout the year, this forest is particularly spectacular in the spring when it is carpeted with millions of bluebells.

Belgium's capital is the seat of the EU and boasts a metropolitan cultural diversity, many historic curiosities, and great museums.

A wonderful square in the heart of the city, surrounded on all sides by historic buildings, including the Town Hall and a city museum.

A must-see museum, this collection thoroughly covers the European masters from the 14C-20C. Visitors often stay for several hours.

Get pleasantly lost in this fabulous historic center that takes you along cobbled streets to museums, homes, and historic sites.

Built for the 1910 Universal Exposition, this area was revitalized to what today is a lovely district of museums and amazing city views.

Beautiful throughout the year, this forest is particularly spectacular in the spring when it is carpeted with millions of bluebells.

A massive channel of man-made caves with a rich history, these caves were used for hiding and protection as far back as Roman times.

Home to Europe’s largest exhibit of dinosaurs, this museum also excels in its presentation of evolution, minerals, and marine life.

Built in the 19C, this complex of greenhouses are built from alluring glass and iron architecture and house stunning flora.

A must-see museum, it features work by Bruegel the Elder and Rubens among its unsurpassed collection of early Flemish art.

Art and history are exhibited through all media in this museum. Its thousands of artifacts span multiple centuries and countries.

Dating to the 13C, this historic castle now houses an art commune, where artists live and exhibit their work for the public to admire.

Spanning over 11,000 ha of land, this large protected park boats a collection of over 250 plant species and great hiking trails.

This Gothic town hall boasts a 95 m tall tower, statues, a mirrored hall, and amazing artwork.

Enjoy Brussels' cultural heritage as the "home of the comic strip" as you walk along this route, admiring buildings adorned with comic art.

Whether shopping for antiques or stepping out among the locals, this atmospheric square is an exciting area to explore.

Focusing primarily on the Congo, this museum thoroughly covers the ethnography, natural history, and environment of Africa.

A privately owned botanic garden and zoo, featuring several excellent themed exhibits of unique animals from all over the world.

One of Belgium's oldest Renaissance castles, Rumbeke Casle is enveloped in interesting history and legend.

The heart of Swiss commerce, finances, and academia, Zurich boasts museums, galleries, a buzzing nightlife, and a superb atmosphere.

Housing a superb collection of medieval, Impressionist, and modern art, this wonderful museum is a hidden gem for any lover of art.

Discover Zurich’s trendiest art galleries, antique stores and bookshops and you wander through its old town.

The perfect spot to enjoy a pleasant stroll by the water, the quays afford beautiful views over the lake and the city.

Housed in a fine villa, this museum exhibits an array of non-European art, featuring works from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.

Whether you catch a boat, take a tour, or stand on the flanking platforms, you will enjoy the views of Europe's largest plain waterfall.

The summit of this Alpine mountain can be reached by a steam train, and offers a stunning view of the Berne Alps and Lake Brienz.

Diverse and extremely rich, this museum spans history, culture, art, religion, warfare, and more through an array of exquisite exhibits.

A treasure trove of French Impressionism, this art collection also contains a selection of modern and fine art.

The 9C abbey was completely reconstructed in the early 20C, and now features notable stained-glass windows and a small crypt museum.

Home to nearly 15,000 plant species from around the world, these botanical gardens afford a lovely afternoon stroll.

Part of the Jura Mountains, this nearly 1,400m peak can be reached by a gondola and offers spectacular panoramic views of the area.

Dramatically set against the peaks of Jungfraujoch, this astronomical observatory afford breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Located on a hill, this area is the site of the 2C Roman settlement, now offering a green respite from the city bustle and great views.

Home to over 2,000 animals, this wonderful zoo features diverse enclosures with varied habitats, from the tropics to the Antarctic.

Founded in the 12C, this marvelous Romanesque cathedral boasts lovely interior, rich ornamentation, and an ecclesiastical museum.

Ideally located on Lake Leman, Geneva has become a thriving metropolis full of cultural events, museums, music venues, and festivals.

A spectacular landscaped park, featuring a splendid rose garden, an 18C palace, picnic areas, and beautiful lawns.

Take an afternoon to stroll through the historic center, discovering local monuments and interesting antique shops.

Decked with flowers and ancient trees, this park also features an 18C mansion and affords wonderful grounds for an afternoon stroll.

Set on the bank of Lake Leman, this English-style garden boasts many cultural curios, an aviary, and is linked to another two parks.

One of Western Europe's largest lakes is lined with settlements, offering a natural respite in the heart of busy cities such as Geneva.

Hike up to the peak to enjoy the views of the countryside below, the splendid Lake Geneva, and the majestic Alps in the distance.

This museum hosts many exhibitions on botany, mineralogy, and taxidermy, as well as glass models of animal skeletons and other curios.

Founded in the 12C and boasting remarkable architecture, the cathedral is famed for the 4C archaeological relics found beneath it.

Switzerland's largest art museum is home to diverse and fascinating collections, including art, icons, jewelry, archaeology, and more.

An exceptional historical library, housing ancient manuscripts, clay tablets, papyri , illuminated tomes, and other literary relics.

A stunning sprawling garden housing over 14,000 plants species, featuring a rich herbarium, greenhouses, a rock garden, and a small zoo.

Surrounded with beautiful parkland and overviewing the lake, this 20th century palace is a base of the United Nations.

Home to over 9,000 Chinese and Japanese artifacts, this impressive museum exhibits a wealth of Far Eastern art spanning a millennium.

This popular museums traces the history of watch-making since the 16C onwards, exhibits exquisite timepieces, mechanism, and tools.

This buzzing metropolis is Italy's heart of style and chic, offering travelers great shopping, historic sites, and superb cuisine.

Italy's largest church dates to the 14C, boasting Gothic architecture, a wealth of ornamental elements, and ecclesiastical relics.

Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy an hour in one of the gorgeous squares, then plunge into this chic center and shop til you drop.

This 15C church features Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and is home to Leonardo da Vinci's infamous mural, "The Last Supper".

Spoil yourself and your loved ones to a night of class and elegance in this world-renowned opera house dating to the 18C.

While the villa itself is not open to the public, its surrounding botanical gardens are, offering an array of natural features.

Hemmed with charming small towns, this lovely lake little-known, but boasts marvelous scenery and a serene atmosphere.

A 15C castle with intricate architectural design, home to remarkable museums displaying art, weaponry, history, and other fields.

A gallery exhibiting contemporary art, as well as 19C pieces, including Romanticism, Lombard Landscape, Symbolism, and other schools.

Originated as a private collection, this 19C museum exhibits work by wonderful Italian painters, as well as other European masters.

While the wonderful 17C villa with its rich frescoes is not open to the public, its surrounding grounds are a large lovely parkland.

One of the smaller Italian lakes, Lake Orta boasts lovely little islet in its center with a charming settlement.

Settled in the heart of Lake Maggiore, these isles host many little gems, including a gallery, a palace, a small beach, and gardens.

Dating to the 13C, this church is best known for its elaborate ossuary, as well as a lovely blend of Baroque and Rococo architecture.

Dating to the 4C, this ancient basilica has reemerged throughout history with varying architectures, but retains a rich interior.

While its exterior leaves a lot to be desired, this superb 16C church is home to a rich collection of exquisite murals.

Europe's third-largest aquarium is home to over 100 aquatic species, exhibiting marine ecosystems of seas, lakes, and rivers.

Visit Croatia's capital city, home to amazing museums, green parks and gardens, renowned restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Hang out in the medieval portion of town, home to winding streets and charming old buildings, quaint courtyards and lively cafes.

An elegant 12C cathedral, featuring a lovely neo-Gothic facade, as well as beautifully decorated interior.

Perfect for a day of water sports, the lake also invites you to walk on the surrounding paths and enjoy the wonderful scenery.

Built in 1836, this splendid and elegant ballet and opera house still functions today, offering an array of wonderful shows.

Croatia's largest national park is famous for its 16 lakes and an extremely diverse collection of flora and fauna.

Overlooking its lush surroundings, this hilltop 15C castle retains much of its Renaissance architecture and houses an interesting museum.

The oldest public park in Croatia is home to five lakes and the City Zoo, offering a great place to spend a nice afternoon outdoors.

A cobbled pedestrian thoroughfare, lined with colorful 19C mansions that feature pubs, cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Visit this 13C fortified tower at noon when the canon is fired, signifying Croatia's victory against the Turks.

A lively outdoor market where people go to buy locally grown and produced vegetables, fruit, meat, and cheese, as well as crafts.

As you explore the stunning Medvednica Mountain, don't miss out on this abandoned early 20C sanatorium, believed to be haunted.

A fascinating Palaeolithic site and museum, offering an examination of human evolution, Neanderthal bones, and prehistoric wildlife.

Housed in a 17C Jesuit monastery, this gallery is used for big international exhibitions, usually for a few months at a time.

Occupying an 18C palace, this museum exhibits a wonderful array of Naive Art from auto-didactic artists, ranging from 1930 to 1990.

Housing over 100,000 items spanning from the 4C onward, this museum exhibits a huge variety of artworks and artifacts.

One of the largest art galleries in the region, this fine Baroque palace dates to the 19C and houses a variety of Croatian artists.

Macedonia's largest city is also its capital, known for historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and varied nightlife.

Take a walk through the heart of the capital, exploring the shops and cafes lining the streets and enjoying a taste of local color.

Dating to the 12C, this bazaar offers traditional taverns, fun little shops, and glimpses of Ottoman and Byzantine architectures.

Culminating its exhibition with the original 1991 Declaration of Independence, this museum traces national history since the 14C.

Dedicated to Macedonian cultural heritage, this museum houses archaeological, historical, and ethnological artifacts.

Comprising more than 120 natural pillars of volcanic stone, this stone town is bound with local legends and myths.

An ancient Greek city, now a popular archaeological site, featuring baptisterium, stone reliefs, mosaics, an amphitheater, and more.

Set in the city center, this fortress dates to the 6C, housing archaeological sites, as well as remains of churches and dwellings.

Established in 1926, this zoo is home to 300 animals, playgrounds for children, and several eateries.

A Neolithic village dating to 5,800 BC, featuring superb findings representative of ancient culture, religion, and household life.

Seating 1,000 in two separate halls, this theater boasts intricate gilded ornamentation, and nearly 50 statues on its roof.

A popular Macedonian destination for nature lovers, featuring caves, an artificial lake, and several historic monasteries.

Macedonia's largest artificial lake is ringed with orchards and vineyards; it offers great fishing and a nearby 14C monastery.

One of the largest cultural institutes in the country, this museum exhibits modern art by Macedonian and international artists.

A 15C mosque retaining its original construction and ornamental details, home to a nice rose garden.

A multimedia museum honoring over 7,000 Macedonian Jews killed during the Holocaust, featuring photos, sculptures, and more.

Commemorating Mother Teresa, this institute features personal relics, a collection of statues, and eclectic architecture.

Hike up the hill to this archaeological site, home to remains of a Roman Christian basilica and 13C towers that offer greats views.

An archaeological site full of impressive megalithic formations, believed to have functioned as an astronomical observatory.

The capital of Romania serves as the country's historic, cultural, and financial center, offering a myriad of attractions and sights.

Wander through the streets of Romania's largest city, enjoying its eclectic architecture, unique ambiance, and fine churches.

Home to various art and history museums, this massive parliament building is the largest in the world and requires a guided tour.

Home to nearly 300 buildings and farms, this splendid ethnographic museum exhibits the architectural variety of Romanian peasantry.

Romania's best natural history museum dates to the 19C, offering a multitude of exhibitions that will excite kids and adults alike.

This 17C palace is a superb example of Romanian Renaissance architecture, surrounded by fine gardens and housing an art museum.

Two picturesque Neo-Renaissance castles - the larger Peles and the smaller Pelisor - boasting exquisitely ornate interior.

Set in a former Royal Palace, this museum holds the largest national exhibits of Romanian fine art, as well as international works.

A superb example of Wallachian Renaissance architecture, this abbey boasts a choir famed for its repertoire of byzantine music.

A popular city park with rich verdure and beautiful scenery, home to several remarkable landmarks and monuments.

Possibly one of Romania's best museums, this gorgeous redbrick building houses exhibits of traditional peasant life and crafts.

Offering a fun adventure for the whole family, this leisure park features rope courses, bike rentals, paintball, workshops, and more.

One of Romania's largest water parks features pools, sandy beaches, and fun activities that will delight adults and kids alike.

Take a walk through the gardens, explore the greenhouses with its unique flowers, and discover nearly 10,000 plant species.

A great contemporary museum set in a glass wing of the Parliament Palace, it is home to diverse multimedia installations.

Bucharest's largest and oldest public park features a lovely artificial lake, several historical landmarks, and beautiful statues.

Set on the site of constant settlements since the Paleolithic period, this 17C monastery boasts lovely frescoes and fine interior.

This unique nature reserve is known for its unique natural feature, small volcano shaped mud hills from which mus and natural gasses erupt.

Slovakia's capital, as well as its largest city, Bratislava is a growing metropolis with diverse architecture and a wealth of museums.

Boasting amazing views, this hilltop castle houses the Slovak National Museum, as well as historical and archaeological exhibits.

Venture into the city center and pass the day admiring its many Baroque palaces, historic landmarks, and lofty churches.

Set within two architecturally different adjacent buildings, this gallery holds the country's best collection of Slovakian art.

This popular lake is home to the largest leisure area in Bratislava, offering many sporting and recreational activities.

Situated on the very tip of a peninsula and surrounded by the Danube River, this museum hosts a wealth of contemporary artwork.

Visit these impressive ruins of 17C Franciscan monastery and church, and enjoy the calm of their surrounding woodland.

One of the city's oldest buildings, this 14C city gate features a 51m-tall spired tower and the Museum of Weapons and Fortification.

One of Europe's oldest city parks is noted for its wealth of local trees, fine Baroque paths, and quaint architectural elements.

A lovely Hungarian Art Nouveau church erected in 1908, famous for its trademark blue and white facade and interior.

The presidential residence is an 18C Rococo palace, periodically open to public and famous for its adjacent French gardens.

Riddled with hiking trails and home to many fun activities, this forest park is a superb recreational area for the whole family.

Visit the Bratislava Zoo, home to over 150 species of animal, as well as a variety of fun activities for the whole family.

A gem of Bratislava's Old Town, this Neoclassical palace is a historic monument with many aesthetically pleasing elements.

Comprised of 18 branches all over the country, this cultural and educational institute exhibits excellent natural history exhibits.

Vienna, the luxurious capital of Austria, has vibrant nightlife, contagiously joyful atmosphere and fascinating history.

The Museum of Fine Art is home to one of the greatest collections of art in the world and exhibits many historical antiques.

Hofburg Palace has a multitude of popular cafes, charming squares, and three separate museums each with international standing.

The gorgeous Schonbrunn Palace is built in an ornate French style as an attempt to rival the famous Versailles Palace.

Surrounded by magnificent gardens, the Liechtenstein houses the vast private art collection of Prince Hans-Adam II.

Located in Lower Austria, this park is dedicated to preserving the ecosystem of meadows, forests, and wetlands along the Danube River.

A 19C fairy-tale fort comprised of original castle sections scavenged from various European ruins, home to a local history museum.

This impressive Renaissance style Opera House often features the most prestigious world-wide conductors and singers.

The Art Gallery located in the Academy of Fine Arts contains several Renaissance masterpieces and many Austrian paintings.

Take a day to stroll along the elegant streets of Vienna as you take in its pleasant character and celebrated Austrian heritage.

Looming 65m high, the Vienna Ferris Wheel offers a breathtaking views of the city at a very slow and relaxed rotating pace.

Comprised of pastures, meadows, salt-ponds, and highly varied flora, this national park is a treasure trove of Austrian nature.

This 13C Baroque basilica is a significant pilgrimage destination in Europe, home to an extraordinary statuette of the Virgin Mary.

Exhibiting artwork ranging from Historicist to Contemporary, the Osterreichische, this gallery is a must for art enthusiasts.

Formerly focused on wine growing, this charming district offers delicious cuisine and a peaceful ambience.

Commissioned by Eugene of Savoy, these two luxurious palaces are linked by a formal garden and now house many famous works of art.

Uniquely located at prince Eugene's former apartments, the museum of Baroque art has a very extensive and precious collection.

Situated on a crag overlooking the Danube, this 12C ruined stronghold offers great views of the river and the Wachau Valley.

The capital of Hungary offers centuries of history and architecture, as well as surprising nightlife and culinary scenes.

Wander through the Historic Center and enjoy architectural gems, local cuisine, and multitude of attractions.

The traditional dwelling of Hungary's kings, this Baroque-style palace complex is rife with history stretching back to the 13C.

An elegant Art Nouveau bath complex known for its mineral hot springs water and wonderful spa treatments.

The interactive railway museum holds over 100 vehicles, suffused with a nostalgic charm that draws in kids and adults alike.

Take a tour of Hungary's second-largest cave, known for its impressive stalactites, large chambers, and constant cool temperature.

Home to several interesting permanent exhibits, this elegant 17C palace was a favorite of Queen Elisabeth of Hungary.

Overlooking the Danube river, this hill offers historical monuments, a noteworthy citadel, and striking views of the city.

One of the oldest zoos in the world, Budapest Zoo is located in a nature reserve and holds over a 1000 animal species.

Fed by thermal springs of Margaret Island, this water park has water slides, wave machines, and other fun facilities.

The National Museum houses collections that trace the history of the Carpathian Basin dwellers, Hungarians and Transylvanian alike.

Discover the caves, local highland woods, and river habitats of this richly diverse national park.

This elegant Baroque mansion is home to an excellent furniture museum, ranging from 15C Gothic style to 19C Biedermeier.

First constructed in the 16C by the Ottomans, the thermal baths still feature Turkish style, evident in their characteristic domes.

A three-floor market hall that offers a rich variety of produce as well as a taste of Budapest life, bound in Neo-Gothic charm.

Decorative fortifications built in Neo-Romanesque style as a lookout terrace that offers great views over the Pest area.

A wonderful example of Art Nouveau architecture, this museum houses collections of textile, glass, and metal craftsmanship.

Travel back in time as you explore this remarkable archaeological park, home to Roman ruins from the 1C.

Named for its blueish color, this famous mountain is popular for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.

The capital and the largest city in the Czech Republic, Prague boasts a magical cityscape, rich in history and culture.

A must-see stop on any traveler's visit, this 15C astronomical clock with its animated hourly show has become symbolic of the city.

Stroll through the Old Town, admiring its spectacular historic architectures and soaking up the medieval atmosphere.

The world's largest castle complex dates to the 9C, featuring the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, historic exhibits, and beautiful gardens.

Home to over 14 million objects and artifacts, this museum's collections encompasses history, science, art, music, and other fields.

This 14C castle is definitely worth the uphill climb, as it offers beautiful views, historic exhibits, gorgeous decor, and more.

Adjacent to an earlier Zebrak Castle, this 14C hilltop complex is of Renaissance architecture and hosts a history museum.

Spanning several historic synagogues, this wonderful museum traces the history of Czech Jewry, exhibiting Judaica, books, and other artifacts.

Prague's most recognizable landmark, the monumental 14C stone bridge is dotted with magnificent statues, and its tower offers great views.

Part of the Prague Castle complex, the 16C street consists of tiny colorful houses, featuring gift shops, a few museums, and a medieval air.

Founded in the 13C, the convent is of wonderful Gothic architecture, featuring historic chapels and a rich exhibit of ecclesiastical art.

Erected in the 12C, this hilltop castle is well preserved and houses an array of historic artifacts, as well as occasional performances.

Charming and easy-going, the historic town offers its visitors several beautiful landmarks, great local wine, and a few museums.

Established in 1881, the theater is the cultural heart of the country, inviting one and all to enjoy its array of superb performances.

Dating to the 14C, this grand church features towers 80m high, adorned with spires. It is an icon of Prague's Old Town.

Listen to the bells' peal as you explore this 17C pilgrimage site, featuring historic church and cloister that exhibit religious tools.

Located in the impressive modern Veletrzni Palace, this museum exhibits an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.

Dating to the 13C, this ancient castle is an elegant gem, featuring original decor, lovely gardens, a wealth of artifacts, and more.

Famed fo its scenic beauty reminiscent of Switzerland, this national park boasts mountains, forests, waterfalls, and historic sites.

With rich history, vibrant nightlife, world-renowned cuisine, and amazing museums, there is something for everyone in Germany's capital.

Once part of the Berlin Wall, this 18C gate has been witness to Berlin's triumphs and misfortunes since its construction.

This museum brings together Berlin's collection of artworks by masters such as Van Eyck, Rubens, Rembrandt, Caravaggio, and more.

Get to know this amazing city, exploring its busy streets and admiring its wealth of historic architecture.

A marvelous natural history museum, featuring a wealth of exhibits on paleontology, zoology, geology, and more.

A public parkland strewn with a variety of gardens from around the world, featuring traditional European and Asian landscaping.

Located in the suburbs of Berlin, stroll around this lake, enjoying the beautiful scenery and the historic buildings dotted around.

This district features cafes, shops, galleries, and courtyards and provides easy access to the neighboring New Synagogue.

Located in the Kreuzberg District, this street was once divided by Checkpoint Charlie and today features fun shops and cafes.

With five world-class museums, visitors can explore exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to the National Gallery, and much more.

This must-see museum holds a wealth of treasure, such as the bust of Nefertiti, artifacts from temples and graves, and much more.

Sprawling along the Polish border, this gorgeous national park features brooks and levees, as well as varied fauna and flora.

About 1 hour south of Berlin, this protected forest is worth a visit for its remarkable nature and unique culture.

The most visited zoo in Europe is home to over 20,000 animals from over 1,500 species, and promises a great day for all ages.

Pay a visit or attend a concert at this stunning hall, home to the Berlin Philharmonic.

Situated near Potsdamer Platz, this 1950s-style museum focuses on several art forms, such as music, decorative arts, and graphic arts.

Located at Potsdamer Platz, this complex is impressive in its design and size, and features shops, hotels, a cinema, and more.

Located in the Havel River, this large island features an Arabesque castle, scenic lawns, and a rich nature reserve.

Set in the world's third-largest hangar, this resort replicates a tropical atmosphere, featuring artificial beaches, pools, and a rainforest.