Bordeaux, SW France

Enter the mediaeval turreted gates of Bordeaux and explore the wonderful Parisian-style architecture and winding streets lined with small shops, cafés and historic attractions. Discover the Grosse Cloche, a massive bell hanging in the 13^th century Saint-Eloi Gateway above the Astronomical Clock. Stroll the waterfront beside the broad Garonne River, and see the grand buildings on the Place du Palais, cleverly reflected in the Mirror d’Eau water feature.

In contrast, take a tour into the surrounding countryside of Aquitaine and sample full-bodied Bordeaux wines at their famous vineyards.

Grosse Cloche de Bordeaux, France by Grand Parc Bordeaux

Munich, Bavaria

Even if you miss Oktoberfest in Munich, which confusingly is now held in September, the city still makes a splendid place to visit. Take a guided tour of the attractions, including the splendid Gothic Neues Rathaus on Marienplatz. Churches, museums, shopping, parks and palaces will fill your day, and if you find yourself in the English Gardens, watch the brave river surfers riding the manmade wave beneath the bridge on the River Eisbach. In the evening, join the lively Bavarian entertainment and bratwurst cuisine at the local Brauhaus.

Bad Gasteim, Austria

A visit to Bad Gasteim in the low non-ski season means first class hotel rooms are cheap, the crowds are gone and you are left to enjoy the delights of this beautiful Alpine valley. Divided by a rushing waterfall, the town has beautiful Belle Époque architecture left over from its days as a popular spa town. Small shops, gorgeous scenery and live music from bands almost every evening add to the charm of your stay.

Just outside the town there are opportunities for lakeside strolls, walks through alpine meadows, bread making on the farm, guided walking tours around Dorfgasteim, hot springs and cheese making demonstrations. The nearby archery course is great fun, shooting life-size target animals along a beautiful footpath enhanced by its woodland setting and banks of edelweiss.

Bad Gasteim, Austria by Dergreg:

Lake Maggiore, Italy

Make your luxury holiday base in Locarno, a lively city at the north end of Lake Maggiore, just inside the Swiss border. Explore the castle, walk in the foothills of the Alps and pop across the border into Italy.

In the heat of summer, nothing beats a day trip on the famous Vigezzina and Centovallina Railway, returning via a cruise on Lake Maggiore. Catch the slow but scenic train to Domodossola, then the Express train through the Italian countryside to Stresa, on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

Enjoy lunch overlooking the lake in Stresa, or perhaps explore the beautiful furnished palazzo and tiered gardens at Isola Bella before boarding the lake ferry. Sit at the stern and see an endless parade of old villas, churches, chateaux and gardens as the ferry zigzags its way back up the lake, calling in at countless picturesque lakeside villages. Three hours later you will find yourself back in Locarno, just in time for dinner!

Isola dei Pescatori, Borromean Islands, Lago Maggiore, Italy by kkmarais

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a wonderful city where you can combine cultural attractions and museums with time at the beach. With 2000 years of history, the Old Town with its cathedral and famous pedestrianized Las Ramblas is a great place to start. The unfinished Sagrada Familia is well worth a visit, the pièce de résistance of architect Antoni Gaudi, who was responsible for many other masterpieces around the city. Base yourself in a hotel overlooking the port and beach at Barceloneta for the best of both worlds!

Josh writes for No.1 Traveller a luxury travel company based in the UK. They operate airport lounges at Heathrow, Stansted, Gatwick and Birmingham airports.

The post The 5 Best EU Destinations for Summer 2013 appeared first on Europe Explored.

Europe has lots of castles that have been converted to serve as luxury accommodation, and we’ve handpicked some of the best castle hotels for your royal and romantic trip.

England

England is the home to a number of stunningly beautiful castles, and a number of them have been successfully converted into modern day accommodation.

Swinton Park – Masham

Swinton Park was once the home to the Cunliffe-Lister family. These days, however, it serves as a luxury castle hotel with 30 bedrooms for guests to choose from.

This beautiful English castle includes everything you would expect from a castle; long corridors, huge staircases, turrets and of course big beautiful bedrooms fit for a king.

Swinton park castle is the epitome of English country living and it’s easy to see why so many tourists choose to stay here. Prices for a room start around $260 a night, which is incredibly reasonable given the high quality of the accommodation.

Swinton Park Hotel, England by Michael King

Amberley Castle – West Sussex

Amberley Castle is an incredibly old fashioned castle; however the accommodation is both modern and incredibly luxurious.

On the outside, Amberley Castle appears almost ancient. A dated portcullis guards the gateway; but be brave, step through and you’ll be greeted with incredible architecture and beautiful landscaped gardens.

Inside the castle hotel you’ll find 19 luxurious and lavish bedrooms that contain relaxing features such as whirlpool bathrooms and beautiful four poster beds. All of this luxury starts at $375 a night; which may seem expensive but the experience is worth every cent.

There are lots of other castles in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland that you may want to consider, including:

• Ashford Castle – Ireland – Prices start from $488 per night
• Ruthin Castle – Wales – Prices start from $107 per night
• Fenton Tower – Scotland – Prices start from $244 per night
• Balfour Castle – Scotland – Prices start from $320 per night

Amberley Castle, England by Steve Winton

France

Like the English, the French have a long and strong bond with their ancestral monarchy, and over the centuries a number of castles have been built throughout France.

Hôtel de la Cité – Carcassonne

The Hôtel de la Cité is a romantic castle hotel that serves Michelin-starred food accompanied with the finest wine.

This picturesque castle will have you feeling like royalty, and the castle now resides within the protected boundaries of the UNESCO heritage site.

During the day you can expect to share the grounds with tourists and daytrippers, but by night the grounds will be void of people, expect of course for you and your partner.

The Hôtel de la Cité offers some amazing views, and you can be sure that the experience of a stay at this castle hotel will be unforgettable. Prices start from $465 per night.

Hôtel de la Cité – Carcassonne, France by elPadawan

Château de Bagnols

Some people have a very visual expectation of a castle’s features, and when they visit a castle they expect the ‘whole hog’; a drawbridge with a moat, defensive towers and of course defensive arrow holes.

The Château de Bagnols is a French castle hotel that meets and even exceeds even the most picturesque perceptions of a castle. If you’re keen to avoid the contemporary design of modern hotels then you’ll fully appreciate the traditional and lavish décor of the Château de Bagnols.

Antiques and works of art are used to decorate the exquisite and luxurious 21 rooms and apartments, but these incredibly high standards come at a price, as rooms start from more than $500 per night.

Château de Bagnols, France by Corona Mejora Tu Vida

If France doesn’t take your fancy, you can also visit baltictravelcompany to have nice view of castles in Eastern Europe. Also, last but not least some of the European castle hotels appealing to you and your partner:

• Schlosshotel Igls – Austria – Prices start from $231 per night
• Castel Porrona – Italy – Prices start from $193 per night
• Burg Wernberg – Germany – Prices start from $257 per night

Author Bio: Jason Phillips is a travel writer and loves to explore different places in the world. He also works for some travel sites.

The post Castle Hotels in Europe: Plan a Royal Trip for You appeared first on Europe Explored.

Once you have answered these and other important questions and determined what works for your needs, it will be easier to plan the ideal getaway. But if you have budget constraints, then your options will also be different. Mind you, it is still possible to go on the holiday of your dreams, even if you are counting your money carefully.

So, what are your options if you are on a budget? For one, cheap package holidays abound if you know what you want. There are many advantages to going on a packaged holiday. Below are some benefits you can get from booking a packaged holiday:

Lower cost

This could be seen as the primary benefit of packaged holidays. Compared to DIY, or do-it-yourself, holidays where you book everything (flights, accommodations, transfers, tours) separately, you can get all-in-one deals with a packaged holiday. This would include your flights, accommodations, and most other expenditures. Since it is sold in bulk, it is guaranteed to be cheaper.

Cheap package holidays to Disneyland Paris are a great way to relax / Photo by Jeremy Thompson

Aside from this, you know from the beginning how much the trip will be. The cost and all inclusions will be listed down, and you can see for yourself what the price is. All you need to worry about is pocket money and money for small expenses and souvenirs.

No need to worry about other details

Since a packaged deal includes almost everything you need for your trip, you don’t have to spend time haggling with tour operators or trying to find good deals online for hotels and car rentals. Keep in mind, however, that packaged deals are often more limited than DIY holidays. Although you pay less, you also have fewer options when it comes to destinations. However, packaged deals often specialize in popular destinations in Spain, Italy, and France – so if you’ve always wanted to go to Disneyland Paris and never had the chance, now is the time to choose a packaged deal.

Numerous facilities

You can still travel in comfort and style even with a packaged deal. No need to lug your huge backpack around and suffer stomach aches from mediocre food. There are various package holidays that include numerous facilities and amenities in the cost, such as swimming pools, restaurants, bars, children’s clubs, and other outdoor activities such as trekking, kayaking, biking, or tennis.

If you will be going to the destination for the first time or would like to have a hassle-free and organised holiday, then package holidays are for you. Even the more sporty travellers can have fun with a package holiday. It really depends on the choice you make, so do research on the destination before you opt for this type of deal.

The post Get to Know the Different Advantages of Packaged Trips appeared first on Europe Explored.

Check out our top picks for combining city breaks with beach holidays.

Barcelona | Spain

A popular choice for combining a metropolitan city feel with Catalonian sunshine, Barcelona offers everything from golden sands and great food to city living and culture. Every summer, millions of sun-worshippers flock to Barcelona’s beaches to soak up some Mediterranean sun with Platja de la Nova Icaria proving the most popular, probably due to its accompanying beach bars. For a calmer experience, sink your toes into the sands at the Port Olimpic Marina or if you’re into bathing au naturel, try the nudist beach at Platja de la Mar Bella.

For a break from the sands soak up some culture; visit the La Sagrada church, an intricately detailed building that is still being built 100 years after it was started. Head to bustling Las Ramblas for thriving streets, packed full of street artists and tarot readers, as well as La Boqueria food market. If you want to break free from the tourist areas, hire a car and head to Carrer de la Riera Baixa and explore quirky vintage shops and great bars.

Barceloneta beach, Barcelona, Spain by Jose Manuel Mota

Dubrovnik | Croatia

Dubrovnik is rapidly becoming as popular as Barcelona and it’s not hard to see why; urban tradition and seaside charm seem to go down pretty well with holidaymakers.
Protected by medieval walls the city’s white sandy beaches, marbled streets and impressive churches offer culture in abundance. If you’ve got bags of energy slip into a kayak (see https://www.adriatickayaktours.com) and take a tour of the city walls, or enjoy unrivalled views whilst the Adriatic laps at your feet on the beach.

Dubrovnik, Croatia by hozinja

Nice | France

If you fancy a holiday that resembles a postcard then the French city of Nice won’t disappoint. There are plenty of pebble beaches drenched in Mediterranean sun, as well as 15 private beaches complete with changing rooms and loungers along with bars and restaurants. When you’ve perfected your tan get lost amongst Nice’s winding streets and stumble across Roman ruins in the old town. Art buffs will be impressed by the works of Monet, Warhol and more in the city’s art museums and music lovers will adore getting in the groove as the sun goes down on this French delight.

Nice, France by dalbera

Venice | Italy

When most people think of Venice they picture winding alleys and canals filled with gondolas, but guess what? Venice has beaches too! In fact, more than half of the Adriatic side of Venice is made up of fine, sandy beaches, and the best part? These beaches are such a well-kept secret that whilst couples enjoy romantic gondola rides you can be enjoy the beach in privacy!

Be quick! Experts predict that this floating city will have sunk below sea level in just 70 years.

Venice, Italy by Michela Simoncini

So, whether you are a beach bum or a city slicker, it doesn’t matter. These European beauties combine it all and now all you need to do is pick one!

The post City Break Versus Beach Break: Combine the Two! appeared first on Europe Explored.

With so much to do, see, and explore; vacationing here with your family is a great way to have a trip you’ll remember forever. Here,  we look at 5 of the best family friendly vacations in Europe; perfect for those that love exploring, and those that love a little bit of relaxing:

1. Italian driving holiday

Road trips don’t have to be for college kids. In fact, you can take your family on a driving holiday and we promise there won’t be any cries of ‘Are we there yet?!’.

Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy by Rome Cabs

The Amalfi Coast in Italy provides one of the most romantic and breathtaking backdrops to a driving holiday, and is the perfect vacation for thrill seekers. Widely considered to be the most scenic stretch of Italian coastline, cruising down these winding roads can make anyone feel like a superstar.

You can stop off at some of the most whimsical hotel locations ever, sample delicious local cuisine, and bathe in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. It is recommended that you drive this coastal route during the peak of tourist season to get the best vacation possible.

2. Villa in Spain

If you’re still looking for a week of complete relaxation but want to avoid the crowds, why not hire a villa in Spain?

Forgot the main tourist areas, and explore off the beaten track; whilst still unwinding by the pool and spending time as a family. A villa break acts as a great base to explore from, and gives you the freedom and isolation you don’t get in a hotel.

Just be sure to hire a car, and explore some of the hidden areas Spain or the Spanish islands have to offer.

Villas in Spain (Santa Pola Life Resort, Alicante) / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

3. Camping in the Lake District

England has some of the most beautiful countryside in the world, and makes for a family friendly vacation spot with a twist. If you love being ‘at one’ with nature, and have a real adventurous spirit, you should consider a camping holiday in the Lake District.

This vacation will provide you with some real, quality ‘family time’; away from all the distractions of modern life. Hire some bicycles and go exploring; go fishing; and eat around the campfire.

There are a plethora of stunning locations to choose from, and so much to do in the Lake District; it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular destinations for people all around the world. You should also look into hiring a car and exploring the surrounding area too!

Red Pike, Lake District, England, UK by Phil and Pam

4. Euro Disney

Children of all ages love theme parks; and children of all ages love the magical world of Disney. So why not hop across the pond, and take your family to Euro Disney?

Situated in the romantic city of Paris; Euro Disney is a mini version of the Florida theme park but offers much the same experience. Your little ones can enjoy collecting signatures from their favourite characters, watch the spectacular shows, and ride some of the great rollercoaster’s.

Whilst over in France, be sure to head to all the sights such as the Eiffel Tower for a once-in-a-lifetime tourist experience.

Disneyland Paris, France by Randal Sheppard

5. Skiing in Austria

If active vacations are more your thing, why not consider going skiing in Austria? This kind of trip is ideal for families that want action and adventure; and not lounging around on the beach.

Whether you know how to ski or want to learn together, this is a great family-friendly vacation with a difference. There are a whole host of locations and slopes, suitable for all ability levels, and there is plenty to do when the skiing is over.

Austrian Alps by Edward Simpson

Europe is home to some wonderful locations for family friendly vacations. If you’re looking for a trip with a difference, why not give it a try? You might be surprised at what you discover.

Core Assets Fostering help vulnerable children to find a safe and happy home with a caring family. Find out more at www.coreassets.com/fostering

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Colosseum, Rome, Italy / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

Travelling is always fun. Even if you are visiting Europe with respect to any job related purpose you can take your family members along with you to enjoy the rest of the evening. For a group travel to Europe you have to select the travelling agency wisely. Make sure that you understand all the packages that are on offer. Just go through them in detail. This article focuses on some tips on small group travel to Europe. Read along to understand more.

Eurail pass

For the purpose of travelling or sightseeing in Europe you can get the help of a guide or you can plan it by yourself. It is always better to purchase a eurail pass for travelling. A eurail pass would allow you to travel throughout the European countries. A eurial global pass is often used for travelling in more than three or four European countries. If you want to travel between two countries to and from unlimitedly, then you can apply for a eurail select pass. If your group consists of only three or four members, then you can take “rail and drive” passes. These passes enable you for some discounts while boarding a train or driving a car.

Walking and hiking tours

For enjoying to the highest level you can resort to walking or hiking tours. These tours are normally provided with the help of a guide. For example you can travel to the French Riviera to take a leisure walk from Nice to Monte Carlo. If you are travelling to Italy then hiking is always a good option. In Italy there are many challenging trails that would give you the pleasure of hiking. There are such trails throughout Italy. For instance, you can visit Montepulciano which is regarded as a worth hiking one.

A way to Montepulciano, Tuscany, Italy by Toprural

Cycling and bike tours

If you are travelling in a small group you can explore Europe by cycling or biking. Before selecting such tours make it a point to learn about the bike trail signs or else you would find the trails challenging.  Such tours are largely available between the months May and October. Between these months you have a variety of guided tours to select from. If you travel to Germany then you can take a leisure bike or cycle tour through Munich which is a tour worth taking. You can get a guide for such travels, a guide can help you in selecting the perfect cycle or biking tour package.

If you travel to Europe then it is always better if you visit more than three countries. Select the affordable package and make the trip memorable.

Author: Carlita Morandi loves to travel in Europe. She is regular contributor at the trip blog. For Cheap tickets visit CheapOair.co.uk.

The post Some tips to make the travel to Europe a memorable one appeared first on Europe Explored.

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.

The post Top Sights In Europe – That You May Have Missed appeared first on Europe Explored.

Pisa, Tuscany, Italy / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

Italy

Home to Amalfi Coast, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Colosseum and famous lakes, Italy is a part of Southern Europe. Topping in every wish list of travelers, Italy brings in abundant scenic beauty just waiting to be explored. It has a lot to offer for everyone. Historical sites like Pantheon, San Giovanni, Basilica di San Paolo Fuori le Mura and Colosseum are the top sites of Italy which can’t be missed. Italian food is popular with tourists and Outdoor cafes are as much liked. Other places that one can visit while in Rome are as follows:

• Vatican Museum
• Palazzo Pamphilj
• Fontana Di Trevi
• Fountain of the Four Rivers
• Protestant Cemetery
• Roman Forum

Spain

A member of the Economic Union, Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula on Southwest of Europe. It is now also listed as the second most visited country in the world owing to its favorable climatic conditions, historical and cultural monuments and geographical position. Its tourism industry has rapidly grown over the last four decades to become the second largest in the world. The cities of Madrid, Barcelona and Seville are hugely popular and the most visited places of Spain.

Church on Mount Tibidabo, Barcelona, Spain by Ivan Mlinaric

Two of the major events that attract millions of visitors from across the world to Spain just to witness these festivals, and they are often seen as highlights of this country are ‘the San Fermin running of the bulls’ event held in Pamplona and ‘La Tomatina (Tomato) festival held in Buñol – Valencia. Besides these two major attractions tourists also enjoy the Seville (Also known as April Fair) and Malaga Fair, Barcelona Summer Festival and carnivals at Canary Islands and Cadiz. Spain has flamboyance, charm and energetic appeal, which makes you feel more lively and rejuvenated once you step on this land of splendour. When you visit Spain do chalk out time to definitely visit the following:

• Alhambra Palace in Granada
• City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia
• Toledo in Madrid
• Tibidabo in Barcelona
• The Spanish Costas
• Park Guell in Barcelona
• Aqueduct of Segovia
• Ibiza island
• La Sagrada Familia Church in Barcelona
• Museo del Prado in Madrid
• Picos de Europa, Parque Nacional in Cantabria, Costa Verde
• Alcazar Seville

Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain by jan zeschky

Ireland:

It is an island located on the North-west of continental Europe. It offers picturesque views and exotic locales that can keep you in awe when you see them. The capital city of Belfast and Dublin are a favorite among tourists, when they visit Ireland. Some of the highlights of this marvelous country that you cannot afford to miss when you travel here are as follows:

• Aran Islands
• Blarney Castle
• Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
• Cliffs of Moher
• Giant’s Causeway
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Dingle Peninsula
• The Céide Fields visitor centre
• Carrickfergus Castle
• Lough Neagh
• Dun Aengus
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• The Burren (A Karst landscape)
• Beara Peninsula
• Greencastle
• Phoenix Park
• Dublin Castle
• National Gallery of Ireland etc.

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland, UK by Jim

The above listed are only some of the attractions of Europe for your ready reference and guidance only. Europe has much more to its glory than can be described here. This is a comprehensive and not an all inclusive list of the wonders of the royal retreat that you can experience, when you visit here.

About Author

Crystal is a travel blogger passionate about travelling and backpacking. She occasionally writes for Bank Holidays 2013, a Web site that shares information and dates of Bank Holidays in UK and Europe and US.

The post 3 Must-Visit European Attractions For Families appeared first on Europe Explored.

Lago di Bolsena

Within a crater of the extinct Vulcini volcano, Lake Bolsena is just south from Tuscany in the region of Northern Lazio. The main nearby village is the old town of Bolsena on the lake’s northern banks. The town is now a resort village with the old town and castle well preserved. The historic island of Bisentina lies within the lake, and it has an old church as well as a historic prison for heretical priests and a convent. Then, a small fishing town on the lake has a castle. People currently enjoy fishing, boating and swimming at Lake Bolsena.

Lago di Bolsena, Italy by Hengist Decius

Lago di Como

Italy’s most popular lake for getaways, Lake Como is a “Y” shaped body of water of the Lake District in the Alps’ foothills. Visitors are captivated by stunning views of blue waters, charming lakeside villages with comfortable accommodations and tall mountains on the northern side of the lake near the country’s border with Switzerland. Visitors should take a boat cruise and stop at some of the smaller villages for cool treats at gellaterias. Other area activities are photography, hiking and a variety of water sports.

Photo of Menaggio, Lago di Como, Italy by Gerry Labrijn

Lago di Garda

The most visited and the largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda is in the country’s northern Lake District. The lovely village of Limone with its many fragrant lemon trees is on the northern side of the lake where rugged cliffs dominate the landscape. Waterfront walkways, beaches and castles from the Middle Ages are around Lake Garda. Families enjoy water sports and nearby parks like the amusement park, Gardaland.

Photo of Toscolano, Lago di Garda, Italy by Studio eLBee

Lago di Maggiore

To the west from Lake Como, Lake Maggiore is Italy’s longest lake at 65 kilometers. The far north of the lake crosses the border into Switzerland. The area has a fair to mild climate even though it is mostly surrounded by the foothills of the Alps. Visitors enjoy exploring the lake’s three islands. The widest point of this body of water is near the town of Luino.

Photo of Lago di Maggiore, Italy by Oliver Keller

Lago di Trasimeno

Close to Tuscany in Umbria, Lake Trasimeno is known as the site for a battle between Hannibal and Rome. The lake is fairly shallow and has some beaches along its shoreline. A large island is within Trasimeno Lake, famous for the lace that the people on the island produce. Historic towns dot the landscape around this body of water, and many of them have fascinating castle ruins. If you would like to visit any of these lakes you can compare lake Como holidays from inghams.co.uk and I hope to see you at the waters edge for a much deserved cocktail.

Photo of Lago di Trasimeno, Italy by Roberto Taddeo

The post 5 Fantastic Lakes in Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo by admin

Arts Outside

Many of the Eternal City’s most famous historic sites morph into elegant alfresco entertainment venues in the warm summer evenings. The Villa Celimontana, the Capitoline Museum and the church of Sant’lgnazio host plays, musical performances and dance exhibitions. Enjoy Shakespeare in a recreated Globe theater in Villa Borghese Park, attend readings by famous authors in the Roman Forum or thrill to opera performed against the stunning backdrop of the Baths of Caracalla.

Café on the Piazza

With its magnificent piazzas, stylish streets and hordes of fashionistas and international celebrities, Rome is the ideal city for people-watching. Whether at sunset or late in the glittering Mediterranean night, stake out a table at a one of many little outdoor cafés and watch the colorful crowds parade by in the Piazza Navona or Campo de’ Fiori. With the prevalence of conveniently located apartments in Rome, you may find a charming hangout close to your cozy home-away-from-home.

Photo by admin

Hit the Roof

Rome’s bewitching rooftop bars and terraces provide astonishing views along with creative cocktails and fine international wines, many within walking distance of delightful Rome apartments. Wake to bruschettas and coffee under balmy Mediterranean breezes or savor evening aperitifs overlooking the glittering city. Many elegant terraces are atop the city’s luxury hotels, including the Hotel Raphael, the Hotel Minerva and the Sofitel Villa Borghese.

Dine Out

Rome is famous throughout the world for its fantastic food, and restaurants are everywhere, from gelato bars to casual trattorias to elegant fine dining establishments. Savor some of the city’s finest seafood at Il San Lorenzo, crispy pizza at popular Da Bafetto or creative Roman haute cuisine at Agata e Romeo. Fortunately for touring foodies, many Rome apartments for rent are close to some of the city’s best eateries.

Dance

Testaccio is the sizzling center of stylish Rome’s dazzling night life, with fashionista haven Hulala, celeb haunt Ketum Bar and exclusive Joia among the countless trendy lounges and dance clubs. Those looking for more laid-back hangouts can head to the area around the University of San Lorenzo, where the prevalence of students has spawned loads of pubs, pizzerias and wine bars. The little beach town of Ostia, just 20 kilometers from Rome, rocks in the summertime with plenty of beachy bars, magnificent mojitos and dancing under the stars.

There are lots of places to stay when travelling round Europe.  Instead of staying in a hotel, why try renting apartments in Paris, London and Rome.  Robin Sharman is a travel blogger who writes about places to visit all over Europe.

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