Of course most people will make sure to go to the ‘big’ hotspots. Most people will visit the Eiffel Tower for instance, and most people will see the Coliseum and ticking off those things would be easy. But if it was only those big attractions you sought out in Europe then you’d end up with a very warped view of those countries and you would miss out on a lot of amazing things. Here then we’ll look at some of the biggest and best sites in Europe that lots of people will miss. Do the big ones sure, but make sure you visit a few of these too to get a more varied and unique experience of travelling here.

The Tatra Mountains – Poland/Slovakia

There are many beautiful vistas in Europe, but one of my personal favourites has got to be this beautiful mountain range. What makes it amazing to me is how easily you can access these stunning views.

Strbske pleso, High Tatras National Park, Slovakia by Claire for Europe Explored

St Paul’s – England

St Paul’s Cathedral in London is one of the best hidden attractions in England’s capital and has a lot going for it. Besides the beautiful interior of this cathedral, you also get to see the burial place of many famous characters from history, see a spectacular view over all of London and experience the ‘whispering gallery’ that really is as strange as people say.

The Maspalomas Mini Desert – Gran Canaria

When you think Europe you certainly don’t think ‘desert’, but that’s exactly what you’ll find in Gran Canaria if you head to Maspalomas. This makes for something completely different to what you’re probably used to, and it’s an amazing sight for anyone

The Vatican Museum – Italy

A normal trip to Rome will involve looking around a lot of ruins and probably a trip to the Vatican City. Rather than just experiencing it from outside though, it’s worth heading inside the Vatican museum to see an incredible collection of art and history. Better yet go at night and it’ll have an even more serene ambience.

Vatican city by Claire for Europe Explored

The British Library – England

The British Library is more than just a library and is filled with exhibitions, statues and history. It’s also rather impressive to behold in itself, and it’s completely free to visit so it’s worth checking out if you’re in England.

The Lochmuehle – Germany

If you have kids then the European destination at the top of your list is probably Disneyland in Paris. For something a bit different though, check out the Lochmuehle in Frankfurt, Germany. This is a huge playground, but one that is entirely self automated. Forget huge queues for two minute rides and try something different as you pedal to power the big wheel.

The Salt Mines – Austria

There are many great salt mines throughout Europe, but Salzburg has got to be home to the best family day out. Here you’ll get to travel deep underground to visit the crystalline salt mines, to take boat rides and shoot down slides.

Auschwitz – Poland

Auschwitz may not be the jolliest day out, but it’s a sight of incredible historical significance and one very much worth seeing. It’s a haunting location, but highly educational.

Wawel Castle – Poland

If you’re visiting Auschwitz then make a detour to Krakow and visit Wawel Castle – one of the most impressive piece of architecture that no one ever really talks about. This is a huge castle which is free to enter and explore, and which some believe to be one of the ‘energy centres’ of the planet.

Mount Teide – Tenerife

If you’re looking for a an amazing and unusual landscape, then you should certainly visit Mount Teide in Tenerife. This is a huge volcano that you can travel right to the top of, and it’s actually the location where they shot Planet of the Apes.

Mt. Teide & Rock Pedestal, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain by N. Tackaberry / License: Creative Commons

The author of today’s article is Ben Llewellyn, the founder of privatejetcharterprices.com. He has travelled extensively across Europe and knows some of the best locations in the continent. So, for people having a penchant for luxury, they can get Ben’s private jet hire information & news stories on his website.

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1. Barcelona

Located along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is one of the most popular places in Spain to visit. It was originally founded as an ancient Roman city and over the millennia, it has flourished into the bustling metropolis that it is today. The city is surrounded with history and is filled with many historical sites that have attracted millions of visitors throughout the years.

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain by Wolfgang Staudt

2. Madrid

The city of Madrid is the capital of Spain as well as being one of the largest cities in the country. With more than 7 million people residing in the metropolitan area, Madrid is the third largest urbanized area in the entire European Union. The Manzanares River can be found flowing through the city’s historical center where you will find countless historical landmarks.

Gran Via, Madrid, Spain by Felipe Gabaldón

3. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Perhaps one of the most popular destinations in Spain is the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria is the second most populous island of the Canary Islands that is located off from the African coastlines. There are countless beaches to lie along and many different archaeological sites that can be found on the island.

Gran Canaria landscape, Canary Islands, Spain by JUAN RAMON RODRIGUEZ SOSA

4. Ibiza, Balearic Islands

You will find the island of Ibiza situated off from the coastlines of Valencia in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. The island is part of a small archipelago (Balearic Islands) for which Ibiza is the third largest in the island group. Over the years, the island has become known for its lively clubs and night life which attracts people from all over Europe and the world.

Cala D’Hort in Ibiza by Federico Capoano

5. Tenerife, Canary Islands

The island of Tenerife can be found within the Canary Islands archipelago. It is the largest and most populated island in the group. Annually, more than five million people make their way to the shores of Tenerife. While there are a lot of places to visit within throughout the island, most people make there way here to relax and simply enjoy their much-awaited holiday in the sun.

Teide National Park, Tenerife by JUAN RAMON RODRIGUEZ SOSA

6. Seville

You will find the Spanish city of Seville situated along the banks of the River Guadalquivir. Founded by the Romans thousands of years ago, Seville has grown into the fourth largest city in the country today. Its well-preserved historical town centre is one of the largest in the European Union.

Plaza de Espana, Seville, Spain by seiho

7. Granada

The city of Granada can be found in the Sierra Nevada foothills where the Darro, Beiro and Genil rivers merge. It is popular destination in Spain due to its pristine location and also thanks to Alhambra Palace. The shores of the Mediterranean Sea can be found only an hour from the city and the Sierra Nevada Ski Station is only a short distance from the city.

Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain by Alex Proimos

8. València

The city of València is the third largest in the country. The city was first founded by the Romans back in the first century B.C. Today it can be found along the Turia river banks where the river flows into the Mediterranean. The beautiful historic town centre is filled with countless historical treasures. There are countless places in València to visit, including the largest aquarium in Europe, which is why it has become one of the most popular destination in Spain.

Oceanografic, Valencia, Spain / Photo by Claire (Europe Explored)

9. Benidorm

The coastal town of Benidorm can be found along the Mediterranean Sea. It is a popular resort town which is located just outside of València. There are countless beaches that can be found at the edges of town as well as a number of hotels that dominate the skyline and offer some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Mediterranean and surrounding countryside. It is often called “Manhattan of Europe or Spain” thanks to its skyscrapers.

Benidorm, Spain by Phillip Capper

10. Menorca, Balearic Islands

Located just off shore of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea, you will find a small archipelago group of islands known as the Balearic Islands. It is here that you will find the island of Menorca which has become a popular destination along the Mediterranean. The island is a mountainous one which is home to the 358 meter tall mountain, El Toro.

Calan Porter, Menorca by gerriet

11. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

You will find the island of Fuerteventura situated off the coasts of Africa. It is part of the Canary Islands archipelago. It is the second largest of the islands in the group and as such, offers more than 50 kilometres of pristine white sandy beaches. It also has an additional 25 kilometres of black volcanic beaches as well.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands by Ina Widegren

12. Calvià, Majorca, Balearic Islands

You will find the city of Calvià situated on Majorca Island, the largest of the Balearic Islands. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, just off shore from Spain, Calvià has grown to become a very popular destination in the country. There are a number of historical monuments and buildings that can be found in the city, but most of the visitors to the islands come to relax under the Mediterranean sun.

Majorca, Spain by Son of Groucho

13. Málaga

The city of Málaga is considered to be the southernmost city on the European continent. Situated just east of the Strait of Gibraltar, along the pristine Mediterranean shorelines, the city has become a popular retreat due to its long summers and warm winters. At more than 2,800 years old, the city is also one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world.

El Alcazaba, Malaga

14. La Palma, Canary Islands

While the island of La Palma is only the fifth largest of the popular Canary Islands, it is one of the most populated islands in the archipelago. Much of the homes and buildings that can be found on La Palma were built back in the 17th century and are perhaps one of the most charming aspects of the island.

La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain by pizzodisevo

15. Lloret de Mar

The coastal town of Lloret de Mar can be found along the shorelines of the Mediterranean Sea. Countless visitors have made their way to the town over the years to enjoy a fun-filled holiday in the sun. There are a number of bars and clubs that can be found in the town which has helped to establish Lloret de Mar as a lively party destination as well.

Beach of Lloret de Mar, Spain by Iron Bishop

16. Salou

The city of Salou dates back to the days of the Roman Empire when it was home to one of the most important ports in the region. Today however, the city is known as a popular destination in the country on account of the beautiful pristine beaches that can be found along its shores. Salou is also the transportation hub for those seeking to spend their holiday on the Balearic Islands. One of the best attractions that can be visited close to Salou is PortAventura Adventure Park awarded as the Best Amusement Park in Europe for 2012.

PortAventura Theme Park near Salou by João Máximo

17. Córdoba

The geographical region of Córdoba has become known over the years for its tantalizing wines. There are a number of vineyards and wineries that can be found throughout the region which produces a number of different qualities to choose from. Countless people make their way to the region every single year to visit the vineyards and wineries which can be found throughout the countryside.

Córdoba, Spain by Juan Carlos Guijarro Moreno

18. Tías, Lanzarote, Canary Islands

You will find the town of Tías situated on Lanzarote Island in the popular Canary Islands archipelago. The town is the main municipality on the island and is also home to most of the island’s hotels. While there are countless beaches on the island, some of the finest can only be found in Tías. If you chose Lanzarote for your next holidays, check flighthub.com and find the cheap air tickets to Lanzarote and other parts of Spain.

Sunset in Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain by torephoto

19. San Sebastián

In the northern part of Spain, you will find the coastal city of San Sebastián situated along the shores of the Bay of Biscay. With the French border a mere twenty kilometres from the city, it has grown to become one of the most famous holiday destinations in the country. San Sebastián is also known for its international film festival which is held annually.

The beach of San Sebastian, Spain by dynamosquito

20. Toledo

You will find the city of Toledo located in the central portion of Spain. The city is known for its role in the history of Spain as it was once the capital of the country. There are countless World Heritage sites that can be found throughout Toledo as well as a number of archaeological sites that can be found in the city’s outskirts.

Toledo by F H Mira

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Hector Garcia

If you should head to the Canary Islands then you will be certain to have a great holiday and there are many things that bring visitors to them time after time. First of all, these islands boast incredible weather. Being just off of the coast of Africa they are very hot as you can imagine, and this makes them ideal for beach holidays and for relaxing in the sun. At the same time as islands they also have lots of beach, and many of these are great for surfers.

The tourism on many of these islands is very pronounced meaning that there is a lot laid on for anyone wanting to visit including great nightlife and clubbing, and lots of places to eat and relax. However the islands are also known for their unusual and often stunning scenery – these islands feature volcanic terrain that looks sparse and desolate and almost like the surface of the moon or Mars.

If you want to visit the Canary Islands then you have several options of places to visit:

Tenerife

Of the Canaries, Tenerife is perhaps the best for night life and the one most associated with clubbing holidays and nights out drinking. To this end it has a fantastic strip of clubs and activities and a hugely bustling nightlife. At the same time though it also has plenty to do in the day and has great beaches and places to eat. One of the sites of most interest for tourists is undoubtedly Mount Tiede which is a volcano you can travel to the top of. Here the volcanic terrain is perhaps at its best – and interestingly this was actually the site on which the original Planet of the Apes was filmed.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Bill

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is another great spot if you’re after a good nightlife and the best spot for that is the YUMBO center which has everything you could need for a great night out. Again the island also has brilliant beaches for relaxing and even a small desert that you can trek through and get some great photos.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is similar to both Tenerife and Gran Canaria in terms of climate and night life, though it enjoys a slightly more muted evening out with a little less drunken debauchery (though some of that still goes on) and a marginally cooler climate due to an ever-present breeze. This makes it the Canary island of choice for those who want to relax and kick back. At the same time it is also the island with the most impressively varied landscape of all – with more volcanic terrain, as well as mountain ranges, another desert and even caves. At the volcanic region of the island you can also enjoy having your dinner cooked for you by the heat of a volcano.

Nick Ball is a web enthusiast and maintains a Lanzarote Guidebook for all his travel queries which he likes to share through his blog. The latest column added to his guide are the list of Flights to Lanzarote.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Hector Garcia

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is the second most populous of the Canary Islands but undoubtedly the most beautiful. The capital Las Palmas is a vibrant and bustling city with a beautiful beach and a fantastic nightlife. The skyscrapers that form the backdrop to the beach give it a great sense of relaxation amongst people in their day jobs (hey who doesn’t want to rub it in a little). Beyond the city the beaches are incredible. They are heavily built up but not in the concrete jungle way you expect from the Costa del Sol for example. The beaches are incredible but it is the natural beauty and diversity of the island that really makes Gran Canaria so splendid.
The scenery ranges from sand dunes to mountains and verdant forests and lush gardens. This makes it an incredible place to stroll and to hike and the sheer biodiversity is overwhelming. The beautiful towns along the coast and inland such as Puerto de Mogan (little Venice), Puerto Rico and Maspalomas give you plenty to see and do and offer a rich diversity of hotels, resorts and Gran Canaria apartments to stay in and relax.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is considered much more of a package holiday destination with lots of resorts and hotels. Lanzarote villas to rent are incredibly popular as well thanks to the islands reputation for excellent nightlife and of course the beaches. The beaches on Lanzarote are incredible with Playa Blanca and Papagayo being two of the very best with beautiful white sands and stunning crystal blue waters. The island is incredibly popular as a package holiday destination but government legislation has meant that development has been tasteful and there isn’t an abundance of concrete monstrosity.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by JUAN RAMON RODRIGUEZ SOSA

The natural beauty on offer on the island isn’t quite as diverse as Gran Canaria but the island is still incredibly beautiful with the cave complexes of Los Verdes and Jameos del Agua being two of the highlights. The volcanic crater of El Golfo is also incredible and a deep green colour that is incredible. Finally Timanfaya national park is an absolute must for visitors as it holds tens of square miles of beautiful volcanic landscapes and craters that are unlike any other landscape on earth.

The island also has a rich history with an abundance of beautiful architecture and centuries old fortifications to explore. The 16th century Castillo de San Gabriel and the Castillo de San Jose are incredible to behold and stand as testament to the island’s rich history. The islands rich history is well worth exploring and is a great way to take a break from the beautiful beaches and the sun and relaxation you’ll mainly be enjoying.

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If you’re on the hunt for somewhere which offers plenty of year-round sunshine, top of your European wish-list should definitely be the Canary Islands.

While they’re owned by Spain, making them part of the European Union, the Canaries are located just off the north-west coast of Africa, which explains the great weather they experience.

Sun, sea and sand are what you’ll get if you head to the island group, which comprises Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, among other destinations.

Whether you’re into lazing around on a beach – perhaps after spending the night in a tent under the stars, or snorkelling along the shoreline, there’s something on offer to you in the Canaries.

For the adventurous types, Tenerife may well appeal as it boasts Spain’s biggest mountain – Mount Teide – which you can ascend through the Canadas del Teide National Park.

En route, you’ll pass the Chinyero volcano, which last erupted in 1909, and you’ll be able to check out some stunning views once you reach the mountain’s summit. Perhaps you might want to consider pitching up tents to watch the sunrise in the distance from the peak the next morning.

More than 12 million tourists head to the Canaries each year, so they’re clearly an extremely popular location. And this is with good reason since they have the weather, beaches and natural attractions to boot.

Average sunshine hours vary throughout the year, but even in the British winter, the Canaries see temperatures of around 17 to 18 degrees C, making for a balmy springtime climate.

If you’re a fan of exploring marine life on your holiday, you’re bound to fall in love with everything on offer on the island group.

The waters boast everything from loggerhead sea turtles to sharks and stingrays, so you’ll see a whole host of different beings under the sea. If you head out on a boat trip there’s a chance you’ll encounter the common or bottlenose dolphin, or even a short-finned pilot whale on your travels.

Whatever you’re after from your holiday, the Canaries are bound to offer it to you, all the year round.

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