Picturing oneself in a nice European vacation – we’ve all been there in our dreams. Europe has a timeless charm care of its beautiful collision of history, art, fashion, and food. This continent has so much to offer. You’ll just want to get lost in its culture and its magnificent and majestic attractions. If you’re planning a European vacation soon or in the future, here’s a round-up destination list for you.
6 Exotic Travel Destinations In Europe
Let’s start counting down!
#6. London
“Oh, London is a man’s town, there’s power in the air;
And Paris is a woman’s town, with flowers in her hair;
And it’s sweet to dream in Venice, and it’s great to study Rome”
– Henry Van Dyke
Long live the Queen! London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is one of the most historical cities in the world and wandering in it is an enticing walk into England’s splendid past. But London is also a culturally dynamic city mixing its past into a livelier present.
This flattering balance between the past and present is evident in its fashion, music, theater, architecture, etc. London’s familiar landmarks like the Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye are amusing sights. You have various choices of museums, art galleries and other urban explorations such as Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Barbican Art Gallery and the National Gallery, as well as beautiful landscape escapes.
Also, there is nothing like drinking a few and just passing the time in a local London pub. London ranks 2nd in the Forbes list of the most visited cities in the world and ranks most visited in Europe.
#5. Barcelona
Barcelona is a picture of a perfect holiday with its scenic beaches, architectural masterpieces, and exciting drinking and dining scenes. Barcelona’s location on the coast makes for its picturesque beach scene. National Geographic named it the “best beach city in the world.””
The sunset as seen from the El Carmel Hill is breathtaking. We can relate Barcelona’s stunning modernist architectures to the famous architect Antoni Gaudi who made the spectacular La SagradaFamilia Basilica and some other architectural treasures. The Picasso Museum which showcases Pablo Picasso’s masterpieces is also a top tourist destination in Barcelona.
Barcelona also homes several UNESCO Heritage Sites to fill your eyes. Barcelona’s real charm lies in its eccentric and suave character. The place livens up at night as live music, dancing and drinking fill the place. Las Ramblas street is a must-go for a fun immersion into Barcelona’s social scene. The adjacent Gothic Quarter is also popular among tourists – the Mediterranean food here are world class and a must-try! After all, drinking and dining are fun; but drinking and dining at one of the world’s most captivating cities? The best.
#4. Paris
The romantic charm of Paris is enduring. Its architectural wonders like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe are magnificent sights to behold. Its historical monuments and churches like the Notre Dame and the Sacré-Coeur are dazzling to onlookers. Its world-class museums like the Louvre and the Centre Pompidou makes Paris an art and culture paradise. The enthralling River Seine is an exceptional view.
The vibrance of The City of Love lies in its streets – the little cafés, restaurants, boutiques and theaters all add up to the chic and intimate Parisian vibe. People all over the world are sure to take delight in its fashion and cuisine, being one of the best in the world. No other place exudes sophistication and romance more than Paris. Its magic is sure to live on in a person even after leaving; a truly “moveable feast” of a city as Hemingway once put it.
#3. Rome
Going to Rome is like going to a museum. It is a treasure trove of riches from the past, a feat made possible because of Rome’s history. It features endless grand antiquities and seemingly endless art galleries. The Eternal City boasts of unique archaeological sites, monuments, churches, and landscapes.
The Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica stand proudly among these attractions. Majestic works of master artists like the famous Michelangelo adorn the church walls. Visiting churches in Rome is an enjoyable pursuit.
There is so much art and historical spectacle going on in Rome. Rome also has a vibrant social scene centered in the Dolce Vita ideal. The real Rome experience includes the sweet idling in the street cafes and piazzas and visiting restaurants and night bars.
#2. Venice
Venice is a picturesque Italian city built on water; the city is an attraction in itself. Its architectural heritage is a sight like no other. Churches like St. Mark’s Basilica and Santa Maria Della Salute, and museums like Galleriedell’Accademia are worth admiring. The architecture and design of the Palazzo Ducale and the Bridge of Sighs are impressive as well. The City of Canals will surely captivate you with its dreamlike sights. If you need some Italian translations, there are many websites and apps you can use.
The best place to get lost in the Venice magic is the Grand Canal! This ancient waterway is the best route to navigate the great architectures of Venice. The most romantic transportation choice through the canal is via a gondola ride. If you’re lucky, you might even get a free beautiful Italian serenade or two from the gondoliere. If you are looking for the best time to visit Venice, you can be sure it’s November. There are many cool places to visit in Venice in November which you will love!
#1. Florence
Though relatively small in land mass as to other European cities, Florence has much to offer. It is a haven for art lovers all over the world. This little riverside city is the center of Italian Renaissance – it houses the grandiose artworks of famous masters such as Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli. Dotted with towering cathedrals and exquisite art pieces, Florence promises to fill your eyes with wonder and excitement. Uffizi has the most concentration of Renaissance art as well as Duomo.
As great as its art is the architecture featured on Florence’s establishments. Global fashion brands like Gucci and Roberto Cavalli recognizes Florence as their birthplace. More than this, Florence is a city bustling with life. The vibrant sceneries come with the vibrant street life. Piazza Della Signoria welcomes thousands of tourists every year. Moreover, the Arno River offers a marveling view. Wine is a staple and a favorite signature of Florence, same as their steaks. There is something about strolling along the Florentine streets of artisans’ workshops and markets that makes life seem so sweet.
European travels are exhilarating, fun, inspiring and educational. There is something in the European air that makes its places so fascinating to explore. Its culture, cuisine, rich history, architecture and sceneries will surely sweep you off your feet!
Author Bio:
Jessica Kim is an ultimate travel enthusiast and the founder of ‘Justanomadiclife.com’. I am a 26 year old-something, fun, passionate and free-spirited individual who set up ‘justanomadiclife’ blog as my public diary to document all of my amazing personal travel experiences which hopes to provide answers to your travel questions and (hopefully) inspire you to go places.
