If you've missed this Europe season, don't fret YOU Travel is here to help you plan for the next European summer. But first, what are the most popular travel destinations in Europe you may ask? Or the best places to visit in Europe.
Well, the most visited cities in Europe happen to be London, Paris, Istanbul, Rome, Amsterdam, and Barcelona. Plus, Florence, Santorini and Reykjavik to name but a few!
Europe is home to the most sophisticated civilizations in the world. The Europeans embrace tradition in all aspects of their existence, including their architecture, their arts, their history, and the outstanding natural surroundings.
With that in mind, we thought you’d like to hear about unique places to visit in Europe. Places that don’t necessarily make the ‘most visited cities’ list but are still well worth a visit nonetheless.
We’ve also added in a best beach holiday destination in Europe. If you want to jump straight to that option, scroll down to reason number 7.
Or start at the top, with these 7 Reasons YOU’ll love UK/Europe:
1. Edinburgh, Scotland
A fairly easy get to from London or in fact any nearby cities such as Glasgow, Liverpool, Newcastle or Manchester. Train travel is the fastest and most relaxing way to reach Edinburgh.
Home to kings and queens for many centuries and located above the city on Castle Rock, you’ll find Edinburgh Castle. This is one of the most exciting historic sites in all of Western Europe. It is well worth a visit, but keep an ear out for the one o’clock gun! The gun (it’s actually a big cannon) is still fired every day at 1 pm, except on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day. If you’re not expecting it the sound can take you by surprise even if you’re on Princes Street below the castle. Ships in the Firth of Forth used to set their maritime clocks by this One o'clock ‘gun’. Edinburgh Castle houses the Stone of Destiny and Scotland's crown jewels, so is steeped in fascinating history that our young country just doesn’t have.
There are plenty of eateries to choose from with Scotland’s traditional dishes on offer. Try out Haggis, Black Pudding, Porridge, Cullen Skink (a hearty soup), Smoked Salmon, Partan bree (crab broth with rice and cream), Arbroath Smokies (smoked fish), Cranachan (sweet), Tunnocks Teacakes (a little like our Mallowpuffs) and of course their national drink - Whisky.
The weather is often warm and pleasant during the European summer, making it the best time to explore the city and its surrounds. There is more time to be spent outside because it doesn't get dark until at least 9 pm. Take in the festival ambience, unwind with a cold beverage in a city beer garden, or make the most of al fresco dining.
2. Heidelberg, Germany
History is undoubtedly the theme of Europe.
Germany's oldest university can be found in Heidelberg. This historic University marked its 635th birthday in 2020. Meaning it was founded in the 14th century. Wow.
Located in the southwest of Germany, Heidelberg is also reputed for its romantic cityscape. Surrounded by forested hills with lush evergreen and deciduous forests, it sits on the banks of the Neckar River.
A beautiful captivating town located about 45 minutes south of Frankfurt Airport and is often part of a European River Cruise itinerary. If that’s not your mode of transportation, we highly recommend booking a sightseeing cruise on the Neckar River. Think historical buildings, bridges, that stunning aforementioned greenery offering you a quintessential European experience.
Heidelberg also boasts a large number of historical structures from the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance that have withstood air assaults from World War II. With its recognisable Castle (well castle ruins), this ancient city is well worth a visit. The castle ruins are among the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. The castle has only been partially rebuilt after it was completely demolished in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Saumagen, which translates to "sow's stomach" in German, is the most well-known and recognised meal in the area. It's a rather accurate term for the delicacy, which consists of a pig's stomach filled with bacon, potatoes, sweet chestnuts, lean, cured pork, and sausage meat. Good, if you’re up for a rather meaty meal!
3. Kotor, Montenegro
One of Montenegro's top attractions is Kotor. On the Adriatic coast of Montenegro, in a bay close to the limestone cliffs of Mt. Loven, sits the coastal fortified town of Kotor.
The historic old town, which features meandering alleyways and squares, is home to several Romanesque churches, notably Kotor Cathedral. The Maritime Museum, which highlights the history of local seafaring, is also located there. One of the two little islands off the historic town of Perast is Sveti Đorđe (St George’s Island), which houses a centuries-old church. A little Benedictine monastery. Very picturesque.
There is so much to see and do in this magnificent coastal city, and there are breathtaking vistas in every direction.
Kotor's city centre is 8 kilometres from Tivat Airport. Budva, one of the most well-liked tourist spots on the eastern Adriatic coast and is located 20 kilometres to the northwest.
Because Montenegro is a coastline country, you should prepare your taste buds for a seafood extravaganza when trying the local cuisine. Turkey, Greece, Italy, and other nearby nations have a big impact on the local cuisine, this makes for very enjoyable dining. The food is completely different in the mountainous areas versus on the coast, which is reasonable. When you are actually near the coast, it is much simpler to enjoy freshly caught salted fish or stuffed squid with prawns, for example.
Among the antique stone and brick structures, you can find a lot of restaurants.
A dark draught beer in the area is called Nikšićko Pivo. Like a sweeter, lighter Guinness is a tasty pairing with fish. You’ll find vibrant, delectable dishes that are the perfect combination of salty and crunchy for a flavourful seafood experience.
4. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Let’s just start by saying this place is B E A U T I F U L. Lake Bled is one of the most pleasing spots to visit in Slovenia.
Hungary and Austria are Slovenia's immediate neighbours to the north and northeast, respectively. Slovenia and Croatia share a 670km-long border to the east, south-east, and south. Lake Bled is a lake located in Slovenia's northwest Upper Carniolan area, in the Julian Alps.
Slovenia is renowned for its breath-taking countryside, lakes, and natural features. For those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure, it is the ideal location. One of the world's most picturesque lakes and several of Europe's top ski resorts can be found here. In the summer, skiers are replaced by hikers and cyclists. Slovenia is at its most pleasant in September when there are fewer tourists and warmer, sunny days.
While the castle (straight out of the Middle Ages) is most well-known for its stunning setting built on a very steep precipice above the city, a wine tasting session there is undoubtedly the high point. The castle wine cellar offers a fun, interactive wine tasting experience where you can sample Slovenian wines paired with tasty appetizers. For those who enjoy mediaeval castles, it offers one of the most stunning vantage points as well as marvellous cultural and historical attractions.
There are numerous eateries and coffee shops, with the option of high-quality restaurants some with spectacular views of the lake and its island.
Speaking of that island, it's the only site in all of Europe where you can swim to an island with a cathedral in the middle!
Without a doubt, Bled is one of Slovenia's most beautiful locations.
5. Mallorca (or Majorca), Spain
Is it Mallorca or Majorca? It's actually both! “Mallorca” is the Spanish spelling of the island, while “Majorca” is the popular spelling in English. Officially, the name of the island is Mallorca, which is technically the correct spelling.
Mallorca, or Majorca, is the largest island in the Balearic Islands, which are part of Spain and located in the Mediterranean. Mallorca is renowned for its spectacular beaches, limestone mountains, hidden coves, Spanish architecture, vineyards, and fresh produce farms. This is one of the most sought-after Mediterranean destinations.
But, let us tell you about Anita Cakes. This is a delicious creative pastry worthy of putting on your ‘must visit' list. The sweetest dessert on the island, Anita Cakes offers you an endless array of delicious options, including cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, cronuts, macarons, cookies, and macarons. Along with their delectable pastries, the bakery also serves fantastic brunches, smoothies, and unique coffees.
Take a plane or a ferry to Mallorca to travel there. To start the adventure, take a flight to Palma de Mallorca Airport from any location in Europe. Alternatively, take a ferry to get to the island. Taking a ferry to Majorca from Barcelona or Valencia will take about three hours.
There are multiple places to stay in this popular island spot, the trick seems to be finding the right place with a pool that suits. Be it an infinity pool by the coast or something inland with amazing views – so many choices!
6. Porto, Portugal
Let’s take a look at Portugal, with a pinpoint on Porto.
Situated on the coast, and along the Douro River in northwest Portugal. Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal and the commercial and industrial hub of the region is well-known for its port wine and its rather fancy bridges.
In 1996, Porto's historic centre received UNESCO World Heritage status.
Right in the heart of Porto, a significant piece of its historical legacy is one of the most recognisable book stores in the nation and the world for that matter. This fascinating place first opened in 1906. The neogothic architecture that distinguishes it, the carved wood, the golden columns, and the beautiful ceilings are still present today.
At the moment, Porto is among the most sought-after destinations in Europe, and for good reason. Of course, you’ll find narrow cobbled streets in the magnificent Old Town there are also amazing Beaux Arts and Baroque churches, palaces, and other structures strewn across the city.
It has intriguing colourful buildings, quaint, café-lined streets, and lots of wine. Porto is compact, accessible by foot, and filled with charm.
If you’re up for 225 steps then try climbing the Clérigos Tower, as this will give you a 360° view of the city. After all that hard work and plenty of photos make your way down to enjoy some of the local dishes:
• Francesinha – The Typical Porto Sandwich.
• Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá – Codfish Casserole.
• Cachorrinho – Porto-Style Hot Dog.
• Alheira – A Delicious Portuguese Sausage
• Tripas à Moda do Porto – Porto's Traditional Pork Stew.
Be sure to visit São Francisco Church, which is renowned for its opulent baroque interior and elaborate gold decorations. This will potentially blow your mind. It is the most prominent Gothic monument in Porto, but the magic happens when you go inside. Take the time to just sit and take it all in.
If you're travelling to Portugal, make sure to include Porto in your plans.
7. Pinky Beach, Mykonos
No, we haven’t saved the best for last…. But…..Pinky Beach is a cool and cosmopolitan must-do when you are visiting Mykonos.
As you may know, Mykonos is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean. It is easy to reach either by plane from Athens and many European cities, or by ferry from Athens ports (Piraeus and Rafina) and many islands of the Aegean.
Pinky Beach on the island of Mykonos is the ideal place to spend a luxurious day. Enjoy modern and discreet elegance in a laid-back atmosphere. All you need to do is book a covered sunbed and relax on this stunning exotic beach. Arguably the loveliest beach in Mykonos, known as a Super Paradise beach, you’ll find that this amazing beach is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. The contemporary amenities are understated elegance in a relaxed setting with opulent interior décor.
You can enjoy refreshments, fairly awesome food, people-watching, and the most beautiful beach in Mykonos while listening to some fantastic deep house music. If that’s your vibe. Might be fun for the day!
Either way, a pleasant and unique stay is guaranteed by the very attentive staff. You might like to opt to take a pause in the quiet areas while being pampered whenever you ring your service bell. Each sky lounge bed on Pinky Beach comes with one. Imagine! You can lay around all day on plush sky lounge beds covered with scrummy fluffy soft towels and ring that bell whenever you fancy something. Oh, la la.
White whites with blue blues are the colours you’ll see all day long in this stunning area. There is accommodation aplenty on the island of Mykonos, talk to your YOU Travel consultant to find just the right place for you.
To get more info on these incredible European hot spots contact your local YOU Travel Advisor here.
If you are ready for your next European adventure, choose YOU Travel to help make it happen.