Comprehensive Southern Europe

Italy's eternal capital boasts historic sites, ancient ruins, fine architecture, rich culture, superb food, and vibrant nightlife.

Make a wish and toss a coin into this world-famous Baroque fountain, admire its sculptures, then head off to explore the nearby cafes.

This iconic landmark is a triumph of Roman architecture, dating to the 1C and hailed as the largest amphitheater ever built.

A very lively neighborhood in the heart of Rome. Great for an evening stroll and a good meal.

Once the political and commercial center of ancient Rome, this archaeological park now houses nicely-preserved ruins.

Flanked by two gorgeous 16C villas, these elegant gardens boast an intricate design, fountains, sculptures, and a wealth of blossoms.

The romantic gardens feature medieval ruins, a variety of trees, meadows, exotic plants, and roses that grow over the ruins.

Set in the Vatican City, these 54 museums house an exquisite art collection dating to the 16C, including the famed Sistine Chapel.

Climb up the elegant 18C Spanish Steps to visit the church, or spend your time loafing on the square below, soaking in the ambiance.

This beautiful 20C villa houses an exquisite 17C collection of artwork and historic artefacts, including choice pieces by Caravaggio.

Originally a Roman temple, this famed 2C rotonda is a superbly-preserved cultural monument, as well as a feat of Roman engineering.

Spanning across a strip of coastal land, including stretch of forest, the park features several types of climates and scenery.

Not far from Rome rests the mountaintop Tivoli, whose long history has left an array of villas, temples, and landmarks in its wake.

The veritable heart of Rome, this hill is an archaeological park featuring a wealth of remarkable ancient ruins and a museum.

Once a wealthy suburb of ancient Rome full of elegant villas and rich gardens, the district is now a great spot for a stroll.

This magnificent 19C monument commemorates Italy's first king, and features an array of artistic and architectural elements.

A Neoclassical square strewn with fountains, cultural monuments, and restaurants, offering a great opportunity for people-watching.

This lush peninsula in the south of Tuscany is full of small towns, hidden beaches, biking roads, and hiking trails.

This fine lake is little-known, but boasts a wealth of appeal, from surrounding castles, to plentiful fish, to good eateries nearby.

Once a Roman arena used for games, this lively Baroque square is a great spot to rest your feet and enjoy some people-watching.

The first church to be built with a Baroque facade, this 16C institute features fine architecture and remarkable ornamentation.

A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, this awe-inspiring 16C church boasts artwork by Italian masters and exquisite furnishing.

Part of the National Museum of Rome, this palace houses a rich array of beautiful Roman sculptures and fine ancient mosaics.

Perched atop a cliff and boasting stunning scenery, this gorgeous medieval town is filled with historic sites and lovely churches.

Covered by ash since the 1C, this historic Roman city offers a wonderful insight into ancient life, architecture, and art.

Famed worldwide for its romantic canals and gorgeous masks, this thriving city offers its visitors a wealth of cultural attractions.

Venice's famous main square is beautifully designed, lined with gorgeous arcaded buildings, and is a great spot for people-watching.

Lined with a fascinating array of architectural curios, the Grand Canal is the city's largest water transportation vein.

Boasting superb Italian-Byzantine style, this 11C basilica hosts a wealth of gilded mosaics, elegant frescoes, and other decorations.

If you allow yourself one touristy act, let it be this - take a ride on a gondola, exploring the city as it should be explored.

Immortalized in several Shakespearean plays, Verona lures travelers with its culture, rich history, and unforgettable atmosphere.

A small town near the Slovenian border, featuring several nice parks, historic buildings, fine churches, and a medieval castle.

Wander around the famed City of Canals, exploring the winding streets by foot or a gondola, soaking up the carnivalesque ambiance.

Located on the long sandbar, this beach rests on the Adriatic Sea, and offers wonderful seaside scenery, clear water, and fine sand.

Stretching for 11km parallel the shore, this sandbar is a resort of its own, known for its elegant villas and a great beach.

A bridge of white limestone, best known for various legends explaining the etymology of its name, be it prisoners' or lovers' sighs.

With its plentiful museums, lovely churches, large piazzas, and superb palaces, this cosmopolitan city is rich with culture.

A small town with a history dating back to the Romans. Containing a nice medieval center and elaborate Roman ruins

Perched on a cliff jutting into the Gulf of Trieste, this lavish 19C castle boasts ornate decor, rich gardens, and multiple artworks.

Retaining its 15C fortifications, this lovely city is full of historic sites, medieval palaces, churches, and great food.

Tuscany's capital is full of history, boasting beautiful architecture, great art venues, superb food, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Succumb to the charms of this historic center, venturing through the streets to discover quaint shops, cafes, and historic sites.

A famous museum, exhibiting some of the greatest classical art pieces from major Italian masters. A must visit for art lovers!

An 11C Romanesque church with rich geometrical design, featuring uniquely ornate interior, including mosaics, murals, and frescoes.

This superb art gallery houses a wealth of Renaissance art, including Michelangelo's world-famous sculpture of David.

One of the best areas to take a scenic drive in Tuscany, this valley offers great views of the countryside at its best.

A top destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena is famous for its cuisine, art, museums, and medieval cityscape.

Florence's largest church is an architectural gem boasting Gothic-Revival architecture, superb decorations, and an exquisite facade.

Admire the superb design, then climb 414 stairs up this beautiful Gothic tower to enjoy the stunning views of Florence awaiting you.

This popular hilltop square offers the best views of the city, and is lauded for its magical atmosphere during sunset.

Formerly a prisonhouse, this 13C building houses an art museum displaying important sculptures and artworks by Renaissance masters.

This fine lake is little-known, but boasts a wealth of appeal, from surrounding castles, to plentiful fish, to good eateries nearby.

This marvelous hilltop town boasts architectural variety, historic towers, a fun medieval atmosphere, and superb local wine.

Adjacent to a monastery, this museum hosts Florence's largest collection of religious art, including some important masterpieces.

With its undeniable medieval charm, this town is full of history, churches, quaint streets, museums, and stately villas.

Flanked by two gorgeous 16C villas, these elegant gardens boast an intricate design, fountains, sculptures, and a wealth of blossoms.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

A popular lakeside town offering a wealth of outdoors activities, historic sites, and easy access to nearby attractions.

Full of architectural curios, statues, temples, and beautiful flowers, this remarkable park is perfect for wandering and exploring.

Enjoy the town's ideal weather as you wander through its charming boulevards, lined with nice shops and featuring pretty lake views.

With its unassuming Renaissance facade belying its worth, this 16C church hosts exquisite murals depicting Biblical and historic episodes.

Strewn with fountains, statues, and various other curios. this beautiful park is perfect for a stroll and hosts occasional concerts.

Situated at the foot of the Alps, this city is home to several remarkable historic landmarks and cultural monuments.

The charming fishing village of Ascona is the perfect resort town, an ideal destination for fans of golf, hiking, and water sports.

Set at the southern tip of the Alps, the Alto Ticino mountains offer excellent views and ideal conditions for hiking and walking.

One of Switzerland's major cities, Lucerne offers a myriad of cultural landmarks, a beautiful lake and a lively, fun, atmosphere.

With Mont Blanc in the background, this ski resort offers spectacular panoramas of the Alps as well as great skiing tracks.

Offering a good view of Mont Blanc, this trailhead is an excellent start for easy but adventurous walks.

This immense glacier is the most famous of the great glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif.

Spreading over 3,300 ha, this reserve is home to beautiful flora and fauna, as well as rich wildlife.

This suspended paradise offers a panorama over the Chardonnet needle, Mont Blanc, and many others.

This fantastic panorama looks out over the Swiss Alps and the Chamonix Valley.

This mountain provides the most breathtaking view in the French Alps, and can be explored by taking a cable car to its summit.

This snow-covered massif is the highest mountain in the Alps, and is a popular spot for activities such as mountaineering, skiing and more.

With a reputation as avant-garde, this town is set among lovely landscapes, and boasts excellent cuisine and architecture.

A visit to this fortress, with its breathtaking views, illustrious history, and five museums, is a must when in Grenoble.

An ancient sanctuary, this museum features the crypt of St. Oyand's and many other highlights.

This museum is considered one of the most prestigious art museums in Europe, due to its ancient and contemporary art collections.

Consider a day trip on some of the scenic roads that provide incredible views of this range's gorges, forests, and peaks.

Known as the "Venice of Savoie", this town is considered one of the most beautiful places in the Haute Savoie region.

This superb narrow valley offers beautiful nature and fascinating caves to discover.

This museum traces the history and evolution of human activity in the Grenoble region.

A stroll through the town center is a great opportunity to feel the energy and spirit of Grenoble.

Take time to explore this superb narrow gorge with, its rich presence of flora and fauna.

Important history and architecture have given this dynamic and lively city the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This lively city has good restaurants, typical architecture for Southern France, and a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Beautiful buildings are all around you while strolling the narrow streets of Old Toulouse.

This collection of Renaissance to 20C art features 30 paintings by Bonnard and works by dozens of other notable artists.

With its bare exterior and lavish interior, this convent is a superb monastic structure with amazing 16C murals.

Noted for its Romanesque sculpture, this basilica was a primary destination for pilgrimage, which its vast interior reflects.

This town is not to be missed with its impressive and extremely well-preserved citadel, as well as its abundance of history.

Created in the 18C, these gardens are full of different species of flowers and trees.

This 16C Renaissance mansion with an Italian-influenced courtyard is home to the Bemberg Foundation.

With more than 4,000 works, this museum displays works from the Middle Ages to the early 20C, from all genres and schools.

A great archaeological museum offering a fine collection of Roman sculptures.

In addition to a comprehensive ornithology collection, this museum's mammal gallery is a credit to its on-site taxidermy workshop.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town rests peacefully along the Tarn River, inviting relaxed exploration via foot or barge.

This beautiful town of art, culture, and cuisine retains its Medieval history, as evident while walking through its old town.

Bilbao is an interesting city with a strong culture of art and architecture, as well as numerous museums on a variety of themes.

Housed in perhaps the most important Gehry-designed structure, this museum is a treasure of 20C art spread among 20 galleries.

While exploring the historic sites, take time to also relax in a cafe and browse shops in the historic center.

This museum is a must-see to admire the work of numerous renowned artists, not least of which are Goya, Le Greco, and Ribeira.

This museum traces Bilbao's long naval history, from the wreck of the 15C "Urbiets" all the way to contemporary activities.

Set on the Bay of Biscay, this town and its history is only rivaled by the sunny beaches and superb local cuisine.

An off-the-beaten-path fishing village worth a visit for its great beaches, as well as its unbeatable sense of peacefulness.

Housed in a 16C convent, this collection is notable for its Basque objects and wood sculptures depicting the "Virgin and Child."

The collection at this museum provides a comprehensive picture of the everyday lives, traditions, and customs of the Basques.

This picturesque viewpoint is worth the small walk, especially with the alluring 11C hermitage perched on the tip of the headland.

This road runs along the coast in the Basque country, offering stops at numerous beautiful views and several fishing ports.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is an admirable combination of laid-back ambiance, history, and entertainment, with a rich medieval presence.

These famous caves are a must-see, with paintings dating as far back as 18,500 BC.

Founded in the 8C, this city shows off its historical past along with a relaxed and modern atmosphere.

With Oviedo Cathedral the prominent landmark of the historic center, be sure to explore the smaller pedestrian-only areas, too.

Built during the 14C-16C period, the cathedral is purely Gothic, with chapels, statues, and art that make this a must-see site.

Housed in a 15C cloister, this museum expands from Prehistory to the Romanesque period and includes artifacts from 9C Asturias.

Housed in an 18C palace, this museum present an excellent collection of works by numerous Asturian artists.

Jutting into the Cantabrian Sea, this lush secluded headland offers superb hiking along the coast dotted with historic lighthouses.

This gorge is lovely and often awe-inspiring to explore, whether by car or by foot, with lush greenery and mossy walls.

Built as a residence in the 9C, this pre-Romanesque church is a peaceful and rewarding place to visit.

Built in the 9C, this Asturian church boasts a clean layout with lovely Roman-style frescoes.

Enjoy a spectacular panorama from this viewpoint, reached by a short walk from the Panderruedas Pass.

This coast lies north of the Cantabrian and Basque Mountains, taking its name from its green waters fed by the rich vegetation.

Explore this remarkably rich 20km gorge, with stops at some tiny villages along the way, as well as the 10C Mozarabic church.

From this viewpoint, the landscape opening up before you is simply spectacular, stretching forth in every direction.

The capital of Galicia, this town was established as part of a pilgrimage route in the 9C, engendering its rich history.

Walk the twisted streets of Santiago de Compostela, admiring the stunning architecture and soaking in hundreds of years of history.

The sites around this square can easily occupy a day of your time, with its surrounding attractions and people-watching.

The 17C square is now a wonderful place to observe students go about their business, and admire some Baroque architecture.

This magnificent 11C cathedral is decidedly Baroque in style, yet its interior holds masterpieces from several periods.

Vigo is a paradise city, with its parks, fishing culture, charming neighborhoods, and sunsets over the Atlantic.

This estuary region treats you to some wonderful beaches and charming fishing villages, as well as some lovely walking trails.

Established in the 15C, this hotel housed pilgrims for centuries, now exuding a sense of splendor and elegance.

Accessible by boat from Vigo, these islands are a national park with their abundance of wildlife, coastlines, and pristine waters.

This beautiful and lively port town combines exploration of its ancient history with beach-combing, sight-seeing, and shopping.

This area is a Galician gem, regardless of whether you want to be pampered at a resort or mingle with the locals on the beaches.

Pontevedra was a medieval port town in Galicia, today boasting a a modernized atmosphere and an array of fun activities.

Founded in the 1C BC, Leon is an elegant city of masterful architecture, generous parks, and friendly residents.

The historic center's many churches represent styles of architecture from French Gothic to Romanesque to Renaissance Spanish.

Built between the 13C and the 16C, each detail of this French Gothic cathedral is spectacular from its stained glass to its altar.

This elaborate Renaissance masterpiece is certainly a must-see, boasting a church, chapels, gardens, a museum, and other features.

This plaza is generally a wonderful place to sit and observe the lovely buildings, yet also good for enjoying some people-watching.

The historical richness of Salamanca's architecture has earned it a status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a spectacular panorama from this viewpoint, reached by a short walk from the Panderruedas Pass.

Boasting exquisite Romanesque elements and fine murals, this church also features a royal pantheon and an ancient art museum.

Jutting into the Cantabrian Sea, this lush secluded headland offers superb hiking along the coast dotted with historic lighthouses.

Dating to the 9C, Burgos is wonderful to visit for both its amazing historical sites and its array of modern-day activities.

A remarkable example of surviving Visigothic architecture, this 7C church impressively commands its surroundings.

Valladolid particularly shines with its well-known 15C and 16C sculptures, and breadth of Renaissance architectural styles.

Zaragoza is currently experiencing a sort of "Renaissance," as the rest of the world is discovering its many attributes.

Enjoy the historic center during the day or take an evening stroll, the latter time giving a fresh perspective of the sites.

This 17C cathedral is most unique in its layout, frescos, and miniature chapel.

This museum, located in a Renaissance palace, holds numerous 15C to 20C paintings, including those by El Greco.

Located in the Zaragoza Cathedral, several of the collection's ancient tapestries are displayed for the public.

These monumental eroding rock formations loom over the town of Riglos, and are home to the largest vulture colony in the region.

This 12C monastery is best known for the lush forested park adjacent to its grounds, as well as the gorgeous waterfalls nearby.

This cathedral has been built upon over the centuries and thus displays numerous styles, from Mudejar to Churriguresque to Gothic.

This impressive 11C Arab palace has been redesigned a few times by later kings, but its mosque has been beautifully restored.

A visit to Pamplona in the Spanish Pyrenees, provides a truly historical experience combined with numerous parks and plazas.

Set out to explore this amazing canyon offering easy and challenging trails, or simply look for eagles along the cliffs.

A vibrant metropolis set on the Mediterranean Sea, famed for its brilliant architecture, rich culture, and captivating history.

Recognized as the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi, this incomplete church is an exquisite blend of Gothicism and Art Nouveau.

In the heart of the city center, this historic quarter is full of Gothic architectural gems, as well as artifacts dating to the 4C.

A marvel of landscaping by Antoni Gaudi, this park blends lush gardens with architectural curios, and is full of whimsical statues.

Once the city's infamous Chinatown, today the neighborhood is best known for its nightlife and a myriad of diverse eateries.

This beach town is friendly and fun, with a wealth of Modernist structures, reflecting many artists who frequented here.

A beautiful mountaintop abbey that offers breathtaking views over the whole of Catalonia, and houses a famed image of Black Madonna.

Visit the city's marina and discover a bustling area great for eating, drinking, and enjoying the views and happenings.

The center remains the heart of Barcelona, combining historic sites and cultural monuments with cafes, shops, and fun activities.

Established in the 15C, this famous avenue is lively, colorful, and manic, with ever-changing commerce, nature, and celebrations.

This immense square is a nice spot for some shopping, and turns into a nightlife and cuisine hub in the evenings.

The intensity of this mountain's facade has influenced Wagner and other artists, as well those worshiping the Virgin Mary.

A 12C monastery superbly blending architectures, with a multitude of galleries devoted to Moor, Romanesque, or Gothic influences.

This flamboyant concert hall displays the best of Catalan culture both inside and out, boasting exquisite ornaments and architecture.

Walk down this major avenue, admiring fantastic architectural gems, browsing the various shops, and enjoying the local cafes.

Located centrally in the Gothic Quarter, this cultural square is surrounded by some of Barcelona's most grand medieval buildings.

Recognized by National Geographic as the world's best city beach, this great shoreline stretches for over 4km and fits all tastes.

A trek starting from Begur towards the coast can take you through several creeks, lined with their rocky and rugged banks.

This diverse ecosystem of seven islands is highly esteemed by ecologists for the diversity of its marine life.

Housed in a spectacular modern building, this museum hosts a must-see monumental collection of over 1,500 late-20C works of art.

Home to over 4,000 of works by Pablo Picasso, this wonderful museum spans several buildings and the entirety of the artist's life.

Honoring the life the local artist Antoni Tapies, this museum holds a superb collection of his works in a fittingly quaint building.

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Gaudi-designed masterpiece from the early 20C offers a museum and roof-top tour.

Girona lives up to its name as the "Venice of Spain," with a wealth of history, museums, boutiques, and cafes.

Founded in the 10C, this Benedictine monastery includes a 12C Romanesque church and an excellent 13C Catalan Romanesque cloister.

While Valencia retains a pride and tight connection to its past, it also is extremely modernized in its demeanor and culture.

Begin exploring Old Valencia by having breakfast or lunch in the friendly and bustling Mare de Deu Plaza.

This expansive complex includes an opera hall, an interactive science museum, and the largest aquarium in Europe.

The Valencia beach is popular for its sand, sun, and surf, with some areas offering amenities and others more tranquil.

Housed in a 17C palace, this museum hosts a wealth of medieval artworks, as well as sculptures, archaeological findings, and more.

A beautiful mountain town, Teruel shows off an interesting landscape of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences from its past.

Built in the 14C, this Templar fort guarantees a lengthy visit as you explore its ramparts and views of the surroundings.

Housed in a 15C Baroque palace with lavish exterior, the museum displays over 5,000 ceramic artworks dating as far back as the 13C.

This 15C Gothic building was once the heart of Valencia's trade, and now retains ornate exterior and elaborate decor.

Part of the City of Arts and Sciences, this must-see aquarium, the largest in Europe, is home to more than 500 aquatic species.

This beach town is notable for its combination of history and fun, offering a wealth of historic relics and a lively atmosphere.

Situated atop cliffs in a beautiful setting, this lovely ancient town is rich with churches, historic landmarks, and museums.

Madrid is where ancient and old meet modern and cosmopolitan, where sightseeing, dancing, and shopping go hand in hand.

Spectacular enough to rival the Louvre, this museum is well-known for its revered art collection including best national artists.

Old Madrid offers a range of exploration from small charming residences, to elaborate mansions, to a number of churches.

Housed in an old hospital, this museum holds a most excellent collection of art by 20C Spanish artists.

This must-see museum provides a comprehensive journey of prehistoric, Iberian, Visigothic, Muslim, and Christian cultures.

This magnificent monasterial complex boasts a palace, a church, an ancient library, royal apartments, and many more historic gems.

Situated amid lovely scenery, this charming city offers diverse architecture, cultural monuments, local cuisine, and rich history.

This refreshing park is an oasis within Madrid, with peaceful tree groves, a lake for rowing, and enticing spots for solitude.

Visit this neighborhood for a day full of cultural exploits, as its streets are lined with some of Madrid's best national museums.

Built in the 17C, this is a relaxing plaza to linger in, with its interesting architecture, cafes, and frequent performances.

This neoclassical palace holds a must-see collection for art enthusiasts, with artwork spanning from the 13C to the present day.

Segovia has an illustrious past dating to Roman times, only rivaled by the beauty of the landscape surrounding it.

Known for its stunning fortified walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of medieval history as well as superb food.

This vast 18C palatial complex is the official residence of Spanish royalty, boasting over 2,000 rooms and remarkable decor.

This 16C monastery contains a wealth of artistic elements, such as its chapels, Ruben-based tapestries, and paintings.

This often overlooked museum should not be missed, as it hosts Goya masterpieces, enamel ware, silverworks, and other artifacts.

Housing art and diplomatic memorabilia as well, the armory is best known for its collections of royal weaponry and armor.

The historical richness of Salamanca's architecture has earned it a status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.