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Are you planning to travel to Europe but have no idea which places you should visit? After all, there is a vast diversity of countries, historical, beautiful and extremely pleasant places to see. Obviously 10 days trip to Europe would not be enough to travel all over Europe, however, there are several combos of places you can go, according to your preferences.
If you want to choose places of architectural, historical and artistic wonders, Spain, Austria, Rome and Paris are great options, however, if you prefer to sunbathe and enjoy the sea breeze, you can visit Algarve in Portugal, Normandy in France or Hvar in Croatia. In short, there is no shortage of options, so this article will help you with your indecision and instruct you!
Contents:
10 days trip to Europe: Where to go?
- Europe’s main tourist attractions.
- The best beaches in Europe.
- The best historical monuments in Europe.
- The 5 best restaurants in Europe.
- Shopping in Europe: Where to go?
- There are several countries, neighbourhoods and shops!
- Best Accommodation in Europe.
- Tips for choosing a good location.
- Recommended travel route.
1. MAIN TOURISTIC POINTS IN EUROPE:
Being a giant continent and getting several enchanting countries, Europe tends to have its main tourist spots that most stand out and call attention. Obviously, you shouldn’t visit a place just because everyone else does, but rather places that please you, charm you and almost make you lose your breath; given this, try to find options that marry most with yourself.
However, here are some examples of places that might interest you:
- Colosseum in Rome, Italy. It is an oval amphitheater built of bricks covered with mortar and sand, located in the city centre of Rome, the capital of Italy.
- Louvre Museum in Paris, France. It is the largest art museum in the world and a historical monument.
- Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Responsible for the preservation and conservation of the art produced by the Dutch painter.
- Alps. It is the highest and longest mountain range in Europe.
- Majorca, island in Spain. One of the largest and most beautiful beaches, which has trails, walks and physical and cultural activities.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. One of the oldest French cathedrals in Gothic style.
- Anne-Frank House in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. It is a biographical museum, where it portrays a part of the history of Nazism.
- St Peter’s Square in Vatican City. It was designed by Bernini in the 17th century in a classical style, but with additions from the Baroque.
- Belem Tower, in Lisbon. Fortification located in the parish of Belem and district of Lisbon, in Portugal.
2. THE BEST BEACHES IN EUROPE:
Even if you have just 10 days trip to Europe, it’s always nice to sunbathe in the warm sun, to have your feet dive in the warm sand or to dive into strong waves, isn’t it? That is why there is a recommendation of the best- known and most recommended beaches on European territory. This way, there is a great opportunity for you to enjoy the summer on the European continent:
- Blue Lagoon in Malta. It is located on the island of Comino. There are kiosks, trails and how to fully explore the site in reserves.
- Calanque D’ en Vau, southern France, in the province. Being the target of several hiking trails.
- Santa Giulia, in Corsica/France. With a turquoise blue sea, you feel like you are in the Caribbean. It is considered the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean and the most beautiful beach in France.
- Myrthos Bay in Kelafonia/Greece. One of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, located 25 km from the village of Fiskado. There are lookout points on both sides of the beach and a beautiful winding path that leads down to the sand.
- Petani Bay in Kefalonia. There is the Petani Bay hotel which offers maddeningly beautiful views.
- Spiaggia dei Conigli, Lampedusa/Italy. Being the most famous beach and elected by Tripadvisor readers as the most beautiful in Europe. To reach the place, it is necessary to take a 10/15 minute trail, at the beginning of it there is parking and kiosk. Having white sand, turtles and birds, anyone can be enchanted by the place.
- Tropea in Calabria. The beautiful town of Tropea is in the city of Calabria, which is located in southern Italy, very close to Sicily. The town is beautiful and has wonderful beaches.
- Cala Sant Vicent, Ibiza/Spain. Being an island of many ballads and parties, maintaining charming villages and admirable beaches.
It is worth mentioning that the peak of heat in Europe generally occurs in August, while the summer period lasts from 21 June to 22 September.
3. THE BEST HISTORICAL MONUMENTS IN EUROPE:
If you are a person who likes to listen to stories, acquire knowledge, observe minimalist details and admire the art produced by great architects, here is a list of museums, castles and even parliaments that are sure to interest you and grab your attention! So, venture out into this sea of inner and outer beauty.
- La Alhambra, in Granada, southern Spain. It is a vast medieval fortress, located on top of a hill, having royal palaces. There is an allusion to the colour of the bricks that the Moors used to build the outer walls of the fortress, where the complex of buildings was constructed between 1248 and 1354.
- Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. It is a large Catholic temple, designed by the architect Antoni Gaudí.
- Cordoba Mosque, in Cordoba, Spain. There is a magical grove formed by columns and depicts when the city reached its height, being ruled at the time by Caliph Abderamon III.
- Roman Theatre of Merida, built in Spain. The consul Marco Vipsanio Agripo had the place built and it was inaugurated by the 15th-16th century AD.
- Eiffel Tower in Paris. It was built in 1889 and is 325 metres high with 1,1665 steps. It is a landmark of how a monument can become a symbol of a nation, is always open, even on holidays and boasts a great view of the city.
- Big Ben Tower in London, England. The English Parliament is located there, making it the main tourist attraction in London.
- Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany. An extremely popular place for tourists, it is considered a masterpiece of German architecture, a symbol of the separation of the two Germany, which was divided by the Berlin Wall.
- Museumplein in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Known as Museum Square, having the most famous museums: Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Museum Stedelijk.
4. THE 5 BEST RESTAURANTS IN EUROPE:
Obviously, if you plan to travel to Europe, you need good places to indulge in a good meal, given that, there is nothing better than tasting all that is on offer among the European cuisine. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack or dinner, there are several recommendations that you should take a look at and review your decision.
- Thornstroms Kok in Gothenburg, Sweden. Its motto is “the better the food, the better the life” and so it brings with it one of the best culinary experiences in Sweden. It is a cosy venue and every Wednesday a gastronomic surprise is held, with special guests, different themes in the bar and so on.
- The Jane in Antwerp, Belgium. Enjoying dinner at The Jane is simply an explosion of flavours, apart from all the exquisite and delicate details, such as flowers and shells on the plates, it is focused on every minimalist detail. The kitchen is open, allowing customers to watch the chefs cooking. The greatest highlight of their dishes are the fish and seafood.
- Disfrutar, in Barcelona, Spain. The main characteristic of Disfrutar is creativity, whether in the assembly of the dishes or their delivery to the table: some are delivered in beautiful rose petals and others inside a wooden bookcase. Innovation has no limits.
- The Black Swan, in Oldstead, England. It is approached by several mountains and maintains a medieval architecture. Structure formed by stones, being a delicious place to taste a quality cuisine. Being a large place, it receives wedding, parties and scheduled events.
- Christopher Coutanceau in La Rochelle, France. The restaurant delivers great elegance, whether its large structure or architecture inspired by the sea. Cuisine focused on seafood, fish and more.
5. SHOPPING IN EUROPE: WHERE TO GO?
Did you know that in some countries in Europe, you can return full of shopping bags? And that in January and July, products can be up to 80% off? All because in certain places, there are products that are much cheaper and worth it, after all, the European continent has commercial cities with a huge variety of products. Paris and London are among the best places to shop, but it is very important to look at other places that are also very affordable.
The euro exchange rate can be high, but buying in Europe is more precise because the products are much cheaper than in the United States.
I always recommend buying from outlets, they are reliable and the prices are excellent. In Europe, it is more worthwhile to buy:
- Skin products: in Germany and France. The products are really cheap!
- Clothes: They are much more affordable, even the designer ones.
- Beers and Wine: In Germany, most beers do not exceed 3 euros and in Italy, wine can cost 2 euros and is very good.
THERE ARE SEVERAL COUNTRIES, NEIGHBOURHOODS AND PLACES!
- Paris, France: There are places that sell famous and vintage brands. The fashion centre of Paris, Faubourg Saint-Honoré is recommended. However, if you are looking for a more vintage shop, the Marais Quater is a great option.
- Milan, Italy: If you are looking to shop for clothes or wine, this is the best destination for you! Here are the best places to get away with designer pieces: Via Montenapoleone and Corso Venezia, for luxury clothes. Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to find pieces at very cheap prices and Corso Buenos Aires, a 1 km street with over 350 shops.
- London, United Kingdom: Westfield Shopping Centre, with more than 250 shops and 70 restaurants. And Oxford Street is a street with more than 300 shops with a wide variety of electronics and products.
6. THE 3 BEST HOSTELS IN EUROPE!
Do you want to have a well-rested night to recharge your batteries? There are several hotel recommendations, from the most expensive to the cheapest. However, we have listed the three best hotels in Europe, exclusively for you. Sometimes you need a break to rest, so check out the options below:
- Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, Hungary: it faces the Chain Bridge and the Danube River. It was built in 1906, however, in 2004 the hotel underwent a major renovation. If you like opera, guests can dine at the Hungarian State Opera House to the sound of an orchestra. Daily rates range from 295 to 2500 euros and you can enjoy the infinity pool, gym, restaurant and bar.
- Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Turkey: A luxury hotel that is close to several historical attractions in Istanbul. The building has 65 rooms, overlooking the Marmara Sea. Recommended for those who like monuments, architecture and museums. Daily rate is from 320 to 1600 euros.
- Four Seasons Hotel Firenze (Italy): Guests can choose a 2-storey spa and its restaurant among numerous attractions. It is located near the botanical garden Giardino della Gherardesca. The daily rate can be around 375 to 4400 euros.
If you want more hotel recommendations, there are plenty of information on this page Best Hotels
7. TIPS FOR CHOOSING A GOOD LOCATION:
As with everything in life, there are some really valuable tips to help you on this journey. Who knows, you’re confused and don’t know where to start, so keep this information:
- First: don’t try to get to know the whole country in only 10 days, it’s impossible. If you want comfortable tourism, without haste or confusion, you can travel through three countries at most within Europe; which is recommended, of course.
- Second: wake up early, enjoy your new experiences and save time, a good recommendation is to look for cities that have easy transits and connections, with a few hours train ride away and flights available.
- Third: buy tickets in advance, to avoid long queues and crowds. Also don’t forget to check the weather and its changes by the day! If you want to plan a trip and have no idea how to do this, check out How to plan a trip to Europe during the pandemic.
8. RECOMMENDATION TRAVEL ROUTES:
In case you still have no idea of which places to go or visit, here are five examples of country itineraries, which may end up pleasing you. Maybe you like the idea and make your own, because if you want to visit more than one country, you need to be organised so as not to waste time or even money.
- Portugal, Spain and France: if you want to mix cities, either their cultures or their cuisine, this is a very traditional example, because the distance between the countries is not great. The flight duration is less than two hours and the ticket prices are cheap.
- Spain, France and Italy: if you like good food and history, this is the perfect trio!
- Italy, France and Switzerland: you may be taking your partner with you, so this would be a very romantic trip for a couple. Having the opportunity to visit the Eiffel Tower, admire the landscapes of Switzerland and visit the Coliseum.
- Italy, the Netherlands and Brussels: something for a younger soul, perhaps? Rome appeals to all ages and Amsterdam has a youthful air. In Belgium, there are beer and squares to enjoy yourself.
- Holland, Belgium and Germany: if you like the train and prefer to avoid flights, this is a good opportunity. Nearby destinations, packed with history and beautiful scenery.
THEN? DO YOU KNOW WHERE TO GO?
What certainly wasn’t lacking was information, valuable tips and ideas that you can add with your tastes. If you didn’t know where to go, I believe that after so much knowledge, you should already be planning your trip, so by no means miss out on trying a new experience, be it the extremely extravagant museums, the warm beaches, the historical monuments that are breathtaking, the recommended hotels, tasting the European cuisine or even doing a great shopping spree with 80% off. 10 days travel to Europe turns out to be a dream and you can live it.
However, we cannot fail to mention that we are in difficult times and COVID-19 has already spread to every corner, in view of this, be sure to stay on top of the news in this article, to travel safely and see how the country you wish to visit is these days:
