Home to countries with a diverse range of cultural and historical backgrounds, the continent of Europe offers visitors the chance to see it all. With the second smallest land area of all the continents and the third largest population, Europe is home to the buzzing atmosphere of countries such as Italy and England, the serene backdrops of Ireland and Switzerland, and the antiquity of Greece. The name “Europe” itself was derived from an ancient Greek myth involving Europa, a Phoenician princess kidnapped by Zeus and taken to Crete. In Greek it means, “broad-face.” Having existed alongside humanity for many years, Europe’s only remaining true wildernesses are in Scandinavia and Northern Russia. Other than that, the civilized portions have been the settings for the growth of civilization. Today, Europe is the setting for the juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern world.
Italy’s rich history offers visitors a glimpse at the beginnings of our own civilization. The antiquity of the ancient Roman ruins and temples and the remains of the statues of the mythological religion live side by side the lively cosmopolitan city of the new Rome. Tourism brings in a main part of the country’s revenue and for good reason. In Rome alone, travelers can take a tour of the commanding and majestic Parthenon. Here, ancient Roman’s paid tribute to the seven gods and goddesses. If you’re looking for some of the best art produced during the Renaissance, the Vatican Museum is the place to go next. It is home to the largest collection of art in all of Rome and includes Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, a Tapestry and a Raphael room. The golden ages of the Roman Empire gave rise to many other cities of splendor. A trip to Venice is like stepping back in time. One look at the canal water streets of this city will captivate your imagination. Gondola rides are still available for romantics and those seeking to immerse themselves in Venetian culture. Also, a trip to the Ca’Rezzonico palace offers visitors the chance to see a part of Venice’s opulent history. Housing a vast collection of eighteenth-century Venetian art, the palace is a great place to get the complete experience of Venice. Also, some of the best shopping in Europe can be done at the lush boutiques of Milan’s Golden Triangle.
Another rustic yet modern country visitors to Europe will enjoy is England. In London, visitors will be struck by Big Ben, the famous clock tower. After that awakening, the magnificence of England can be experienced by visiting Windsor Castle and the Jubilee Gardens. A brief educational tour through the castle will leave plenty of time to go strolling along the gardens with the entire family. Also, experience how the histories of all the countries in Europe intertwine by visiting Bath, the location of the ancient Roman baths. Get a sense of the antiquity of this nation by visiting the prehistoric monuments of Stonehenge. Here, visitors will be awed by the grand display of primeval capabilities. England is also the place to go for literature lovers of all kinds. Although the houses of Keats and Austen are popular sights, Stanford-Upon-Avon of Shakespeare is a huge draw for thousands from around the world. Also, the real life Sherwood Forest is sure to fascinate the kids in the family while the Imperial War Museum entertains the adults. The museum contains weapons, vehicles, and models of the wars of the 20th century.
Greece is one European country so fantastic that the ancient Romans based their entire society upon it. Lined with amazing beaches, small towns, and a charming atmosphere, Greece is the perfect vacation destination for every traveler. Visitors can take a tour and go to the Acropolis of Athens, which also makes for beautiful photographs as well as an enlightening and entertaining time. Afterwards, the Acropolis Museum is a must see with its ancient collection of religious statues. If museums and ruins are not allowing you to immerse yourself as completely into the Greek culture as you would like, the marketplace ruins of Agora are a must see. Here, visitors can get a glimpse of what life must have been like 2400 years ago. Also, no trip to Greece would be complete without a visit to the famous Parthenon. This is where the ancients gathered to worship the Gods and the structure is made to evoke a sense of wonder and trepidation. Also, to get a modern feel of Greece, be sure and visit Kolonaki Street. Lined with numerous colorful boutiques and coffee shops, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while relaxing with a good cup of Greek coffee.
The continent also includes wonders such as the luxurious rococo Royal Palace of Madrid, Spain. Even the Royal Botanic Garden is a sight to behold as visitors take in the awesome grandeur of Spain’s golden age. Spain is one country that includes cultural events alongside modern entertainment. Visitors will definitely enjoy the street jugglers, dancers, and musicians of The Plaza Mayor square as well as a night on the town at the Kapital club. The Palace of Catalan Music in Barcelona is an amazing place for visitors to enjoy classical guitar, orchestra and flamenco performances during their stay in Spain.
Ireland offers visitors a majestic countryside and unusual museum. After an interesting introduction to the history of the country at the Kilmainham Goal Historical Museum, a 19th-century jail, visitors can tread on to the Guinnes Storehouse. Here, visitors can stroll the building and have free samples after their tour. After a few days of sight-seeing, the Easkey beach in Sligo is the perfect place to relax. Beauty, great surf, friendly locals, and inexpensive and good food are what make this beach a wonderful vacation spot to visit.
Austria is one country still steeped in old-fashioned traditions. The famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna offers visitors an amazing exhibition of the agility and grace of their highly trained horses. People from all over the world come to enjoy this spectacle. Also, with the waltz the official dance of Austria, the country participates in throwing grand balls for citizens. Feel like royalty for one evening while waltzing in the ballroom of an actual Austrian castle.
Whether it is the antiquity, old-world charm, or the modern fascinations that draw you, a vacation in Europe is sure to be memorable and lots of fun.