By Claire Taylor
Best Places to Travel in Europe
Likely the most difficult decision in planning a trip to
Europe is deciding which places to visit. Everyone is an expert on this topic and listeners are likely to go partly mad trying to come to a conclusion. From the big four of Paris, Rome, London, and Berlin to water-born cities like Athens, Barcelona, and Marseille, the decision might take some time to answer. This is especially true when also considering Eastern Europe cities like Vilnius, Budapest, and Prague, which offer numerous opportunities for tourism and cultural differences that an outsider may find fascinating.
Venice
During the Middle Ages, the city of Venice was a seafaring powerhouse. Located in northern Italy, today's Venice still wields much power, though more in the area of tourism. History runs deep here, as the city-state fought numerous battles with outsiders including the Huns and the Visigoths. Today's Venice is much more peaceful but equally well known for its famous canals (the most famous of which is the Grand Canal) navigated by thousands of gondola boats. Other sights include one of the top art galleries in Europe, the Gallerie dell'Academia, the Piazza San Marco (basically the town center albeit in a very grand style) and the Basilica dei Frari, a Gothic-style Franciscan church from the Middle Ages.
Barcelona
Located along the Mediterranean coast of Spain, Barcelona is the capital of the region known as Catalonia. With its status as a leading port in the Mediterranean and its relatively mild climate, Barcelona receives a steady flow of visitors. beaches along this area of the coast are busy in the warmer months. Barceloneta is probably the busiest of the city's area beaches. In the historic section of the city, Plaza Catalunya's three large fountains spout regularly to classical music and theatrical lighting. Also, the excellent Picasso Museum can be found near the Parc de la Ciutadella.
Prague
Located in the Czech Republic, within the heart of the Bohemian region, Prague escaped major mutilation during World War II. As a result, this city has retained most of its precious architecture and thus remains the envy of much of Europe. A must-see here is the Prague Castle, the world's biggest, which also contains Saint Vitus Cathedral. The medieval Astronomical Clock also should not be missed. First assembled in 1410, the clock sits within the old town square and still chimes on the hour.
Paris
Sacre bleu! A visit to Europe without visiting Paris is like going to Disneyland without seeing Mickey Mouse. The Eiffel Tower, The Arc de Triomphe, the Catacombs, a boat ride down the Seine, the Hotel de Ville, the Louvre Museum (where the Mona Lisa is housed), the Musee d'Orsay, or a walk down the Champs-Elysees are only a few of the hundreds of attractions in Paris. A trip to one of the city's many cafes is a Parisian tradition. Try Les Deux Magots, known for its espresso and as a meeting place for French literary types. Also, the Jardin des Plantes, located in the Latin Quarter, is a great place to go for things educational, as it houses the Natural History Museum.
About the Author:
Claire Taylor is a health, wellness and travel writer with credits in publications such as "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." Taylor is also a seasoned independent traveler, as well as a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant.
Photo Credits:
Alexander Abolinsh
