Discover some of the most delightful European destinations that are a must for your bucket list, whether you want to hike and ski the central Apls or sail along the coastline.
The strange and spectacular awaits around every corner in Spain’s most arts-centric city.
Playground of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona bursts with extraordinary structures such as the vibrant Park Güell with its colourful mosaics and the 140-year endeavour La Sagrada Familia. In the evening, musicians and dancers collect on La Rambla for a night of celebration under the stars.
There are also many museums and art galleries in Barcelona to be enjoyed including one dedicated to Picasso which houses over 4,000 of his works.
The city is one of the highlights of Mediterranean cruise holidays thanks to its coastal location in north-east Spain next to the alluring south coast of France and the beautiful Balearic Islands. Barcelona’s beaches are easily reached from the city center, some just a 20-minute walk away.
Another must-visit on a Mediterranean tour is the Greek island of Corfu which lies to the west of Albania. You can wend your way here from Venice, following a route through the Adriatic and Aegean seas until you reach Athens.
Corfu is beloved for its picturesque beaches of white sand and azure waters, and its lush inland countryside that’s an idyllic landscape for spring and summer walking adventures.
There’s plenty to do here when you’re away from the coastline and countryside too. The Old Town of Corfu is UNESCO World Heritage, dating back to the 8th century BC with architecture both ancient and colonial. Achilleion Palace is a highlight with its striking neoclassical style, as is the hilltop Monastery of Paleokastritsa which provides sweeping sea views.
In total contrast to Corfu, Interlaken in the Swiss Alps is the ultimate winter wonderland destination.
Between December and February, this traditional town is brought to life by tourists seeking sensational snow sports. Interlaken has a central position between key ski resorts connected by mountain railways, aerial cable cars, and chair lifts, making it a great base for those hitting the slopes.
Visitors can also try their hand at thrilling toboggan rides and ice skating at the many resorts, or tackle winter walking trails that lead to unimaginably breathtaking vistas.
Hoping for a trip with a more peaceful pace? Interlaken is also an incredible wellness destination with spas offering thermal treatments in contrast to the sensational wintery surroundings. If you’re feeling up to it, you can juxtapose this experience with a quick dip in Lake Brienz or Giessbach Falls!
No Europe bucket list selection would be complete without Croatia’s most recognizable city. Dubrovnik rose to fame in the last decade when it was chosen as one of the filming locations for the hit television series Game of Thrones, and its UNESCO Old Town is even more picturesque in person.
As well as touring the Old Town with its stunning structures, visitors can eat fresh seafood and traditional dishes at the limestone-paved Stradun and take the cable car to view the city from above.
Just offshore are various tiny islands that offer peaceful and private day trip destinations. You can sail there yourself or hop on a ferry and start your day of relaxation from the off. Nearby Lokrum Island is a favorite due to its tranquil botanical garden, striking salt lake and 1,000-year-old Benedictine monastery.
