LOOKING FOR SOME TRAVEL INSPIRATION AND PLANNING TIPS? Listed below are articles about places to visit in Europe (listed by country) to inspire your travels. Scroll down, and you’ll also find trip planning ideas and tips. Happy travels!
Croatia
- Paklenica National Park: An Outdoor Treasure Near Zadar, Croatia
Croatia is a beautiful country, and exploring the urban areas is exciting, but sometimes you just need a break to enjoy nature’s beauty. One such place is Paklenica National Park, which boasts majestic mountains, streams,… Read more: Paklenica National Park: An Outdoor Treasure Near Zadar, Croatia - Viking Empires of the Mediterranean Cruise Excursions: Tips and RatingsVisiting fascinating sites while traveling in relaxing comfort are hallmarks of a Viking Ocean Cruise. Besides the wonderful onboard experiences, the option of a varied menu of excursions in each port is a key benefit… Read more: Viking Empires of the Mediterranean Cruise Excursions: Tips and Ratings
Cruises
- Best Sights to See on the Viking Grand European Tour River CruiseImagine visiting lovely cities — small and large — along the fabled Rhine River and Danube River. You can certainly visit these cities on your own and enjoy them. We’ve discovered that river cruising gives… Read more: Best Sights to See on the Viking Grand European Tour River Cruise
- The Complete Guide to a Viking River CruiseEver consider a Viking European river cruise? River cruises are very popular choices for people who like traveling to new places in the comfort of a floating hotel. That is, you sleep and eat on… Read more: The Complete Guide to a Viking River Cruise
- Viking Cruises: Best Action Steps After Booking Your Cruise
You’ve booked a Viking cruise. Awesome! Now what? Well, the big decision is out of the way: where you’re going! Now it’s time to deal with the next level details, including what to expect on… Read more: Viking Cruises: Best Action Steps After Booking Your Cruise - Viking River Cruises: Relaxing Common Spaces to EnjoyViking’s river cruise ships, called longboats, have comfortable common areas for dining and relaxing. The well-designed furnishings and Scandinavian decor are presented in calming, muted colors. These are spaces that are restful and perfect for… Read more: Viking River Cruises: Relaxing Common Spaces to Enjoy
- Viking Ocean Cruises: The Ultimate GuideWant to see more of the world while enjoying the relaxing comfort of a floating resort hotel? That convenience is a hallmark of a cruise. This article highlights the features of a Viking Ocean cruise… Read more: Viking Ocean Cruises: The Ultimate Guide
France
- Saint-Émilion: An Enchanting Medieval Village in Southwest FranceSaint-Émilion is a beautiful medieval town and a wine appellation in southwest France. It sits on the right bank of the Garonne River, about 30 miles/50 km east of Bordeaux. It was named for an… Read more: Saint-Émilion: An Enchanting Medieval Village in Southwest France
- Bordeaux: The Beautiful Capital of a Historic French Wine-Producing Region
Beautiful Bordeaux, a city in southwest France, is one of the top French destinations favored by travelers due to its lovely historic center, the surrounding vineyards in the famed Bordeaux wine region, and its proximity… Read more: Bordeaux: The Beautiful Capital of a Historic French Wine-Producing Region - View Unique Prehistoric Art in Southwestern FranceImagine being one of the four kids in 1940 who stumbled upon amazing cave art that dates back almost 20,000 years. That’s what happened in the tiny village of Montignac in southwest France. That accidental… Read more: View Unique Prehistoric Art in Southwestern France
- Best Day Trips from Sarlat in Southwest FranceThe Dordogne River valley in Southwest France is rich with historical sites and breathtaking landscapes. Perfect spots to visit in the area include centuries-old châteaux, well-manicured gardens, ancient cave art, a centuries-old religious community, the… Read more: Best Day Trips from Sarlat in Southwest France
- Sarlat, France: A Marvelous Medieval Town to ExploreSarlat-la-Canéda (or as it is usually referred to, Sarlat) is an enchanting medieval town in southwestern France that is a great location to simply relax surrounded by historical charm. Here you’ll find buildings dating to… Read more: Sarlat, France: A Marvelous Medieval Town to Explore
- French High-Speed Trains: Tips for Your First TGV RideWhen traveling from Paris to/from other regions in France, like Bordeaux in southwestern France, you’ve got a few choices: bus, rental car, regional train, or high-speed train. The French TGV high-speed train wins the race… Read more: French High-Speed Trains: Tips for Your First TGV Ride
- Southwest France: Spend a Day Exploring Fascinating Châteaux and GardensExperience history in a compelling way by spending a full day exploring three charming châteaux and a unique garden in the Périgord region in southwest France. These châteaux, on the banks of the Dordogne River,… Read more: Southwest France: Spend a Day Exploring Fascinating Châteaux and Gardens
- Casa Blanca B&B, Bordeaux: A Perfect Retreat in Southwest FranceLooking for a comfortable place to stay in Bordeaux, France, in a quiet area but easily walkable to all parts of the city? Casa Blanca B&B in Bordeaux’s Chartrons district is the perfect place to… Read more: Casa Blanca B&B, Bordeaux: A Perfect Retreat in Southwest France
Greece
- A Guide for Two Weeks in GreeceGreece ranks as one of the most popular countries to visit in Europe. And rightly so. As Socrates once stated, “Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued.” This ancient Greek — who… Read more: A Guide for Two Weeks in Greece
- Driving Tips for GreeceTraveling in Europe is a real pleasure, and getting around by car is part of the fun. Renting a car can add to your enjoyment as you explore a new area. Lolly and I have… Read more: Driving Tips for Greece
- Top 6 Things To Do in SantoriniOne of the most visited places in Greece, Santorini is a delight to visit. Making this a stop on a trip to Greece is most enjoyable in the shoulder seasons (on either side of the… Read more: Top 6 Things To Do in Santorini
- Top 8 Places to Visit in RhodesThe island of Rhodes sits in the southeastern portion of Greece — northeast of Crete and just 11 miles west of Turkey. This island beckons travelers who have come to appreciate its history, natural beauty,… Read more: Top 8 Places to Visit in Rhodes
- A Visitor’s Guide to CreteThe delightful Greek island of Crete is about 162 miles long and 37 miles wide. It has four prefectures (regions); from west to east they are Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Lasithi. Crete hosts millions of… Read more: A Visitor’s Guide to Crete
- Kókkini Porta Rossa: Best Place to Stay in Rhodes, GreeceOn the Greek island of Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, you’ll find a special place that caters to guests’ comfort and offers first-class hospitality. Kókkini Porta Rossa is a quiet luxury hotel with… Read more: Kókkini Porta Rossa: Best Place to Stay in Rhodes, Greece
- Viking Empires of the Mediterranean Cruise Excursions: Tips and RatingsVisiting fascinating sites while traveling in relaxing comfort are hallmarks of a Viking Ocean Cruise. Besides the wonderful onboard experiences, the option of a varied menu of excursions in each port is a key benefit… Read more: Viking Empires of the Mediterranean Cruise Excursions: Tips and Ratings
Ireland
- Exploring Southern Ireland: Dublin, Kinsale, Ring of Kerry, Dingle, Cliffs of MoherThe Emerald Isle is a fabulous place to explore! The land is breathtakingly beautiful along the coast as well as inland. Plus the history and culture — plus meeting locals along the way — are… Read more: Exploring Southern Ireland: Dublin, Kinsale, Ring of Kerry, Dingle, Cliffs of Moher
- Castlewood House: The Perfect Place to Stay in Dingle, IrelandCastlewood House is a luxury inn in Dingle, Ireland with well-appointed guest rooms and comfortable common spaces. The delicious breakfasts are a wonderful morning treat. Afternoon treats greet guests when returning “home” after some time… Read more: Castlewood House: The Perfect Place to Stay in Dingle, Ireland
Italy
- Visiting Mt. Etna, Sicily: What You Need to KnowA major landmark when people think of Sicily is Mt. Etna, the towering volcano at over 11,000 feet/3,350 meters above sea level, located on the island’s eastern side. It’s Europe’s largest active volcano. It was… Read more: Visiting Mt. Etna, Sicily: What You Need to Know
- Sicily, Italy: A Perfect 10-Day Itinerary to See the HighlightsUnlike other Italian regions, Sicily is unique due to its diverse history dating back to ancient times. Various civilizations (including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans) dominated Sicily over the centuries. These outside influences impacted… Read more: Sicily, Italy: A Perfect 10-Day Itinerary to See the Highlights
- Villa Romana del Casale: A Fascinating Ancient Roman Villa to Visit in SicilyVilla Romana del Casale: SP90, 94015 Piazza Armerina EN | 0935 68 0036 (The website is mostly in Italian; use Google Translate if needed) There’s a treat for art and history lovers in Sicily: Villa… Read more: Villa Romana del Casale: A Fascinating Ancient Roman Villa to Visit in Sicily
- Explore the Best of SicilySicily’s history is a kaleidoscope of competing conquerors, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Italians. Its strategic location — at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea — made it a magnet for traders and… Read more: Explore the Best of Sicily
- Exploring Italy: Piedmont, Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Naples, Rome, SicilyItaly is one of the top five visited countries worldwide, and it’s easy to figure out why. It’s got gorgeous landscapes, rich history and culture, welcoming people, and amazing food and wine. Plus it is… Read more: Exploring Italy: Piedmont, Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Naples, Rome, Sicily
- Casa Ombuto: Amazing Cooking School and Hotel in Tuscany, ItalyCasa Ombuto is a comprehensive hands-on cooking school that also offers amazing accommodations in Tuscany, Italy. About 30 miles from Florence, guests are guided through creating delicious Italian dishes (appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts). The… Read more: Casa Ombuto: Amazing Cooking School and Hotel in Tuscany, Italy
- Castello di Sinio: A Charming Castle Turned Luxury Hotel in Piedmont, ItalyCastello di Sinio is a luxury inn in the heart of Piedmont, Italy. In a perfect location to explore the region, Castello di Sinio pampers its guests with super comfortable guest rooms, attractive amenities, beautiful… Read more: Castello di Sinio: A Charming Castle Turned Luxury Hotel in Piedmont, Italy
Montenegro
- Kotor, Montenegro: Old World Charm and Stunning SceneryCharming Kotor, on the secluded Bay of Kotor (also known as Boka Kotorska or Boka Bay), is a visitor’s delight encased in a small footprint within medieval city walls. Founded centuries ago, Kotor was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, recognizing the Venetian 16th-17th century fortifications. Visitors will most likely notice the winged lion of St. Mark, the symbol of mighty Venetian rule, around town. Less than a two-hour drive from Dubrovnik, Kotor is a place to leisurely explore on foot, stopping now and then for some refreshment and window shopping. You’ll no doubt lose your way along… Read more: Kotor, Montenegro: Old World Charm and Stunning Scenery
- Viking Empires of the Mediterranean Cruise Excursions: Tips and RatingsVisiting fascinating sites while traveling in relaxing comfort are hallmarks of a Viking Ocean Cruise. Besides the wonderful onboard experiences, the option of a varied menu of excursions in each port is a key benefit for many. Viking does not disappoint. On Viking’s Empires of the Mediterranean cruise (between Athens and the Venice outskirts), my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the excursions. Viking offers various excursions, including historical sites; local farms and estates; scenic boat rides; factory visits; and active options like hiking or biking. Something for just about everyone. This article outlines the excursions we went on and rates… Read more: Viking Empires of the Mediterranean Cruise Excursions: Tips and Ratings
Trip Planning Ideas and Tips
- Must-Have Travel Apps and Websites for 2024Just as trusted friends are so important in life, trusted apps and websites (apps/sites) are critical to travelers. Like friends, the apps/sites are there when you need them. Whether you plan your own trips, are… Read more: Must-Have Travel Apps and Websites for 2024
- Driving in Europe: What You Need to KnowWant to enjoy the freedom to explore quaint European towns, countryside vineyards, and hidden restaurant gems? The best way to do that is to rent a car and do your own driving. Driving in Europe… Read more: Driving in Europe: What You Need to Know
- Travel Lightly: Top Ten Tips to Pack for Your Next TripTraveling opens up our world to new places, experiences, and people. But there’s always some level of stress. One way to alleviate travel headaches is to pack your belongings only in carry-on luggage. Plan to… Read more: Travel Lightly: Top Ten Tips to Pack for Your Next Trip
- Expert Tips for Traveling to Europe for More Fun, Less StressA rich kaleidoscope of history, culture, architecture, art, food, and wine awaits travelers to Europe. Plan to make your trip fun, educational, and (relatively) stress-free by following expert tips on what to do before and… Read more: Expert Tips for Traveling to Europe for More Fun, Less Stress
- How to Find the Perfect Vacation Home RentalsVacation home rentals can make travel and family get-togethers so enjoyable. Instead of staying in hotels, consider opting for a short-term rental (e.g., house, cabin, apartment, condo) in a location with amenities that suit you,… Read more: How to Find the Perfect Vacation Home Rentals
- Best Tips for Planning the Perfect Road TripRoad trips can be fun weekend getaways or even entire vacations. One thing that makes them so appealing is their flexibility: you’re driving your own vehicle, stopping along the way when you discover an unexpected… Read more: Best Tips for Planning the Perfect Road Trip
- How to Plan a Great TripPlanning a great trip is key to having an enjoyable time. Here’s what I’ve learned from my other half (and here’s a handy travel planning timeline to help you get ready for take-off!). I have… Read more: How to Plan a Great Trip
- Travel Planning TimelineGetting ready for a trip is so exciting! First, you narrow down the country you want to visit. Then you plan the trip and decide exactly where to go, what to see, where to stay,… Read more: Travel Planning Timeline
