There are many options for visitors who want to avoid the crowds, experience the thrills, explore the vibrant culture and history. Whatever type of experience they are looking for, Europe will provide an unforgettable escape by suggesting places for the five different ways visitors want to explore each place according to Delta Vacations.
1. For the Sun Seekers
South of France
Along the French Riviera, beautiful beaches with great surf and sun await in Monaco, Nice and Cannes! The stunning cities and towns dotted along the coast offer great people-watching, spectacular scenery, lovely weather, plus an array of things to do.
Spain
Sitting along Spain’s southern coast is the rocky, sun-drenched region known as Andalucia. Its beautiful coast stretches more than 500 miles, offering numerous, spectacular beaches, coupled with a warm, Mediterranean climate and cheerful, hospitable people.
2. History buffs
England
From the Tower of London to cathedrals and Stonehenge, England’s thousands-year history is truly enchanting. Visit the British Museum, Churchill War Rooms, the Roman Baths, Shakespeare’s Globe and Hadrian’s Wall, plus hundreds of castles along the countryside to step back in time.
Italy
Surround yourself with beauty, history and the greatest collection of art the world has ever seen, not to mention medieval hilltop towns and awe-inspiring cathedrals and ancient ruins. From the Colosseum to Pompeii, the Doge’s Palace to the Tower of Pisa, ancient history is waiting around every corner.
Ireland
Gaze over The Cliffs of Moher & walk the streets of Ireland to feel the energy of more than 1,000 years of history, as echoes of the Vikings mix with quaint boutiques, cobbled streets reverberate with the sounds of musicians, & 18th-century parks play host to festivals & food markets.
3. Nature Lovers
Switzerland
Ride a gondola up Geneva’s backyard mountain to enjoy the most breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and the city below, or relax in one of the city’s waterfront parks. Geneva is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside, including the popular nearby towns of Lausanne, Vevey and Montreux.
Iceland
With lava fields, geothermal pools, sweeping sea views and massive volcanoes all within easy reach, Reykjavik is a gateway of possibilities. The world’s northern-most capital has nearly 24-hours of daylight in the summertime, which is the perfect time to get a a glimpse of Icelandic life.
Favorite destinations include the Golden Circle, Mount Esja and Úlfarsfell Mountain. Laugavegur, Iceland’s popular 88-mile hiking trail, connects the nature reserves Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork.
4. For the Foodies
France
Set along the sleepy Garonne River in the southwest of France, Bordeaux is a UNESCO-listed, glamorous port city, home to prestigious chateaus that produce France’s most famous wines.
Greece
Nothing can compare to Mediterranean culture, where dining is relaxed and simple. Experience a long-lasting Greek tradition of gathering together in a taverna to enjoy a meal with wine or ouzo, a dry anise-flavored aperitif. Indulge in cheese or spinach pie, a custard filled phyllo pastry or another temptation from a bakery’s window.
Italy
Tuscany is well-known for its strong culinary traditions, but don’t miss out on Naples and the Amalfi Coast! The Campania region is a paradise just waiting to be tasted — from Neapolitan pizza and scialatielli ai frutti di mare (spaghetti with seafood) to sweet pastries and gelato. After your meal, don’t miss sampling limoncello (a lemony liqueur).
Portugal
No matter what you choose to do in Lisbon, there is no shortage of good food. From grilled sardines and fried cuttlefish to Azeitao cheese and pastel de nata (Portuguese egg tart pastry), this destination has flavors to please any palate.
5. Classic Europe
London
A diverse and exciting city with some of the world’s best sights and attractions, London is an international capital of culture, music, education and fashion. Home to a bevy of English bobbies, avant-garde fashion, double-decker buses and pubs filled with “football” fans, England’s capital is teeming with noteworthy sights, from the Tower of London to Abbey Road.
Rome
Every year, millions of tourists from around the globe come to the Eternal City to admire the treasures and masterpieces of Roman art and architecture. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it is a city that is best enjoyed leisurely, like a full-bodied glass of wine. Iconic sites like The Vatican, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Roman Forum and St. Peter’s Square will both astonish and inspire.
Barcelona
Flanked by the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is a 2,000-year-old city, steeped in cultural heritage, vibrant art and impressive architecture. From the scenic Barceloneta district to the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona is sure to bring joy to travelers of every age.
