Paris tops most people's bucket lists as an unforgettable city for art,
culture, and croissants. Stockholm in Sweden also offers beautiful streets with
design shops as well as Viking-related history; making this destination a must-see for architecture fans.
Paris
Paris remains one of Europe's safest and most popular travel destinations despite what you might have heard; most visitors are responsible travelers, and no major demonstrations were observed this year or last.
Once in Paris, no visit should be complete without seeing its iconic
monuments. But if you have some extra time on your hands, consider visiting
lesser-known sights: for instance, the Louvre Museum pyramid offers a more
tranquil viewing experience than the Eiffel Tower; similarly, the Arc de Triomphe
viewing platform offers stunning vistas across central Paris along its Axe
Historique--an array of historic landmarks arranged to form an east-to-west
path through Paris.
The Catacombs, with their maze of winding tunnels filled with thousands of
bones, is another fascinating (yet somewhat disquieting) tourist attraction.
However, there are skip-the-line tours available so you can avoid waiting and
explore this morbid attraction at your own leisure.
Paris is meant to be enjoyed slowly. Take your time savoring its atmosphere,
exploring parks and gardens, sipping wine at a cafe while watching live bands
perform or simply reading by the Seine.
If you're seeking some added excitement, there are numerous events taking
place throughout the year that might just do that - the Monaco Grand Prix takes
place in May while the Rugby World Cup comes to France this October!
Barcelona
Barcelona is a Mediterranean city known for its relaxed lifestyle. This
walkable capital offers sandy beaches, museums, and an exciting nightlife scene;
while also featuring some stunning architecture inspired by Moorish culture
like Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo.
Barcelona boasts an extensive range of accommodations, ranging from budget
hostels to luxurious hotels. To maximize your time in Barcelona and ensure you
can access its most sought-after sights and attractions, booking your accommodation
early is advised; for best results look for accommodations near metro stations
or bus stops and hostels/hotels located therein. When booking tours and
attractions that require multiple tickets in advance it will help avoid long
lines while making the most out of your experience in this vibrant city.
Although most parts of Europe are generally safe to visit, you should
exercise extra caution in areas affected by political demonstrations.
Demonstrations don't tend to disrupt travel plans and are relatively uncommon -
should one appear near you, simply move around it quickly to avoid it -
otherwise Barcelona is an excellent spot for enjoying your vacation!
On your visit to Barcelona, don't miss the Sagrada Familia; its
cathedral-like structure is the masterpiece of architect Gaudi and an example
of Spanish Modernist architecture, featuring columns, decorative motifs, and
spires that will take your breath away. Additionally, Casa Batllo stands out as
an eye-catching fairytale-like building from movies; don't miss checking out
its rooftop terrace for breathtaking city views and treat your taste buds to
delicious Catalan cuisine at one of Barcelona's many restaurants; from cheap
tapas bars to Michelin-star establishments there's something suitable for every
palette.
Dublin
Europe has an abundance of history and cultures. Boasting leaning towers and
charming medieval towns as well as expansive fjords and hot volcanic springs,
Europe boasts an array of wonders.
Europe remains one of the world's top travel destinations despite localized
lockdowns and restrictions, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic's changes. A recent
survey indicates that travelers now prefer staying longer at one destination
before moving to another; moreover, many are willing to pay more for experiences
away from crowds.
Though Europe's top 10 most-visited destinations may vary widely, each
offers unique cultural attractions and breathtaking landscapes that make them
well worth a visit. Paris, Italy, and Barcelona have long been favorite travel
destinations - Paris is ideal for couples while Italy and Barcelona provide
families and couples alike with ample city lights or Mediterranean coast
beaches to choose from. Dublin stands out as an exciting tourist spot thanks to
its historic attractions including 13th-century castle, Trinity College Book of
Kells collection, and Dublin Zoo - to name just some.
Dublin is known for its flourishing restaurant scene with multiple
Michelin-star eateries and vibrant cafe culture, as well as an abundant choice
of Michelin-star dining establishments and an expansive cafe culture. Enjoy
traditional Irish dishes at Temple Bar or discover more about Ireland's brewing
heritage with an experiential tour at Jameson Distillery during your visit to
Dublin. Additionally, enjoy strolling the charming streets or taking scenic
river walks such as Phoenix Park and St Stephen's Green; take an immersive
walking tour along River Liffey or tour local pubs like Guinness Storehouse or
Locke Bar to experience Dublin nightlife first-hand!
Lisbon
Legend holds that Lisbon was constructed upon seven hills, making for
incredible vantage points known as miradouros throughout its historical center
and offering breathtaking views of this pastel-hued city and its majestic Tagus
River.
Jeronimos Monastery is an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site built to
commemorate Vasco de Gama's voyage to India. Each column in its cloister
features intricate detailing like coils of rope, sea monsters, coral, or other
nautical motifs carved into them - an experience in itself! Additionally, de
Gama's tomb can also be found here and the monastic halls provide breathtaking
scenery.
Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, is another must-see. The narrow
streets here offer shops, cafes, and restaurants galore. Join an expert local
guide on a walking tour through this fantastic part of town or head directly to
Casa da Cerca for contemporary art exhibitions or an outdoor terrace coffee
(weather permitting).
Almada can be reached via the 25 de Abril Bridge and features the Cristo Rei
statue - inspired by Rio's Christ the Redeemer statue - at its center. Visible
throughout most of Almada and standing 100 meters high, Cristo Rei is one of
Almada's most striking landmarks and an icon among many landmarks of its own
city.
Those on a tight schedule can squeeze Lisbon into two days without feeling
rushed, taking in all its main highlights while having enough time to travel
on.
Reykjavik
As the World Travel & Tourism Council welcomes an ambitious EU
initiative to reinstate summer travel across Europe and save millions of jobs,
it is vital that European nations swiftly relax restrictions preventing
visitors from outside Europe from traveling, rather than restricting entry
solely for those carrying an incontestable coronavirus test.
Reykjavik is one of the safest destinations in the world and offers an
abundance of things to do, from exploring its rich Viking history at National
and Saga museums or taking a dip in geothermal Blue Lagoon to climbing
Hallgrimskirkja church's 74-meter tower for panoramic views over its capital
city.
Reykjavik's Sun Voyager sculpture, an eye-catching metal structure that
looks similar to a Viking warship but doesn't belong, is another must-see
attraction. A symbol of light and hope, its best viewing time is sunset.
Kaffibarinn or Kaldi bars provide plenty of nightlife entertainment while
Reykjavikurtjorn pond provides quiet relaxation opportunities where many locals
relax with a walk, feed ducks, or feed themselves!
Stockholm is an intriguing medieval fairytale town filled with stunning
bridges and revolving restaurants that offer spectacular city views from above,
making it easy and exciting to explore on foot or bicycle. Staying overnight
gives you an opportunity to witness it at its least-touristy best since day
trippers flood its streets on day trips alone. The old quarter, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site by UNESCO is ideal for strolling leisurely around
and taking in its magnificent architecture or trying out local seafood at
waterfront eateries.
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