Visitors receive a warm welcome from the locals and even the temperature heats up to almost 40oc in July and August. Cyprus has the warmest climate in the Mediterranean and the warmest winters, so you can go any time of year. Here are the top places to visit:

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Karen Bryan

Petra tou Romiou

On the southern coast of the island lies Petra tou Romiou, a rock off the shore at one of the finest beaches in Cyprus and more famously referred to as Aphrodite’s Rock. This is because it is known as the birthplace of the mythological goddess of love Aphrodite. This is one of those must see places because it is a strikingly stunning area of natural beauty particularly the views from the road which travel from Paphos to Limassol that runs along the top of the cliffs.

Ayia Napa

On the far eastern side of the island, Ayia Napa has earned itself the reputation for the destination for those who love to party. This resort attracts oodles of tourists and has lots of beaches where you can experience a variety of water sports which range from water skiing to canoeing, scuba diving to wind surfing you can really take your pick. Ayia Napa is also home to the biggest waterpark in Europe so if you are a thrill seeker and love giant water slides then WaterWorld Waterpark is for you. It has many attractions, areas for parents to relax and playground areas for the kids.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by anthony kelly

Paphos Harbour and Castle

Paphos Harbour and Castle is on every tourists list of attractions to visit in Cyprus. Here you will find the remains of a castle which dates back to 1391. All round you will find stunning views and you can also enjoy a tour of the beautiful coastline by boat. You can take relaxing walks along the quay and sit in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Nicosia

Finally, you can’t visit Cyprus without exploring its capital city, Nicosia. Its beautiful stone walls were built in the 16th century by venetians with lots of hidden delights. If you have had enough of exploring the city architecture, Nicosia also has a famous shopping centre called Laiki Yitoniak. You can also enjoy the many excellent places to eat and pick up a few souvenirs and gifts to take back home.

Whether you are looking for a holiday that’s jam packed with adventure, laid back with lots of sun and sea or filled with culture, then Cyprus is the holiday destination for you. There are many cheap flights to Cyprus so book yours now.

View Top Places to Visit in Cyprus in a larger map

The post Top Places to Visit in Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Pedro Gonçalves

Tramuntana Mountains

One of the most scenic parts of the island is the mountains of Tramuntana. These mountains are best explored on foot or on a bike. There is so much to see while you climb the trails of the mountains and you may be gob smacked with the views.

There is the Castell d’Alaro that is perched on the top of a rocky mountain overlooking the village of Alaro. This is a ruined castle and hilltop chapel that offers amazing views out towards the Tramuntana Mountains, Palma and further away the Mediterranean.

Coastline

The coastline of Majorca is varied dependant on the area of the island that you are visiting. The north is wild and rocky with steep cliffs while the south has coves, caves and ports. If you are looking for long walks along the beaches then the east and west coasts of the island are your best bet.

If you are looking for some privacy then you could hire a boat and sail to one of the quieter beaches that are only accessible by sea. There are many of these types of beaches so you can have some alone time.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Misty

Palma

Palma has a massive reputation for partying as does Magalluf but if you stray from the norm then you will find that Palma has an old town that is worth a walk around. Discovering the architecture and culture that Majorca has to offer. Palma has a cathedral, ‘La Seu’, that took nearly four hundred years to build but the gothic architecture is amazing.

You could also relax in the ‘Banys Arabs’ (Arab baths). These are remnants of Palma’s Moorish past. Or if you would rather do some shopping then the streets of Palma are the best on the island to grab some retail therapy. There is everything from up-market boutiques to some more familiar high street stores.

Most of the towns in Majorca have their own weekly markets that typically start early in the morning and last until noon, the most traditional of these markets is the medieval town of Sineu.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Vix_B

Above All

Be sure to enjoy yourself whatever you decide to do while you are on your get away in Majorca. Whether it is relaxing on the beach or exploring the hills and mountains of the countryside Majorca has everything all on one fantastic island.

Majorca is a lively but mysterious place to travel to and there are many resorts to stay at.

Why not find the perfect location to stay at using Majorcanholidays.co.uk

View A Few Things to do in Majorca Balearic islands, Spain in a larger map

The post A Few Things to do in Majorca | Balearic islands, Spain appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Lisa Nichols

History & Tradition

According to legend, an army of Norsemen under King Haakon of Norway landed at the coast of Largs intent on conquering the Scots. They moved inland under the cover of darkness, and to be all the more stealthy removed their boots to remain silent in the night. As they drew near to the slumbering camp of the Scots one of the Norsemen stepped on a prickly purple thistle and shrieked out in pain, awakening the clansmen to the danger of the advancing enemy. The Scots won the day and the lowly purple thistle was adopted as the Emblem of Scotland during the reign of King Alexander III (1249-1286).

The history of Scotland is filled with such incredible legends. These are stories of heroes and heroines filled with romance, thrills, mysteries and tragedies. These are stories of famous warriors and famous battles both won and lost that echo down the centuries from ancient bygone times. These are stories filled with the triumph of the Scottish spirit. To visit Scotland is to be immersed in these stories, and everywhere one might visit has a tale to tell. There are hundreds of historic sites to visit across the length of Scotland, from the Orkney Isles in the far north where the neolithic village of Skara Brae has been standing since before the pyramids of Egypt were built, to the castles, cairns and standing stones of Dumfries and Galloway in the southwest. A few of the most popular historic sites to visit in Scotland include:

• Edinburgh Castle – the seat of Kings and the scene of some of the bloodiest events in Scotland’s long history.
• Scone Palace – the ancient seat of the Pictish Kings.
• Bannockburn Heritage Centre – site of Robert the Bruce’s 1314 victory over Edward II that secured Scottish independence for 400 years.
• Wallace National Monument – built in the 1830s to commemorate Scotland’s National hero, the museum there houses the mighty sword of William Wallace.
• Culloden – Blar Chuil Lodai was the site of the last pitched battle ever fought on British soil on April 16, 1746, when the Jacobite cause of Bonnie Prince Charlie died under the English guns on Culloden Moor, an event that roils the hearts of Scotsmen to this very day.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by genevieveromier

These are just a few of the over 300 sites preserved across Scotland, from castles to abbeys to battle sites to stone age villages, all designed to preserve the history and culture of this storied land.

Sarah is a dedicated travel author who when not exploring different parts on the world, writes about them. She has a particular love for cosmopolitan cities and thrives of finding quirky places to hang out! Currently focusing on travel in the UK, she is looking into self catered holidays in Scotland. Edinburgh apartments have mnay great places to stay, as do Glasgow apartments. They have been a great resource so far as they have provided a wealth of information.

The post Scotland: A Stunning Destination for History and Culture | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Maxwell Hamilton

Chertsey Abbey

Chertsey was built around this abbey and was founded in 666 AD by the Bishop of London of the time. It grew to become of the largest Benedictine abbeys in England. It was rebuilt in 1110 after it was destroyed by the Danes. The building was completely destroyed after 1537 with the bricks being used to make other buildings. The monument is an intriguing historical site despite the lack of the original abbey.

Mercedes Benz World

This is one for all you petrol heads out there. An opportunity to get up close and personal with a plethora of vintage and current models form the luxury car making firm. Visitors over 1.5m tall can take advantage of a track driving experience which is guaranteed to thrill. Even the tinier members of the family can experience a Mercedes with a mini electric race track available. Once hunger calls, have a bite in the Gull Wing cafe which conveniently looks over the main race track. At the end of the day you can take home a souvenir model of a variety of Mercedes cars. Located in Weybridge, it’s a very short drive from Thorpe Park.

Great Cockcrow Railway

Following on from the transport theme, a trip on the Cockcrow Miniature Railway is a must for anyone visiting the area. It’s a 7 ¼ gauge railway and one of the most extensive of its kind. There are two routes you can take, a red route and a green route. Both are 1 mile long and pass through the most breath taking scenery. The Green route makes a stop at Cockcrow Hill for the engine to be turned around. Each route has its own queue designated by the relevant colour so you know which trip you are going on.

Photo by cockcrow.co.uk

Chertsey Museum

The Museum is situated in the centre of Chertsey in the Borough of Runnymead. The museum houses the Oliver Matthews Dress and Textiles Collection which highlights the various stages of British fashion, a history that extends over the last 300 years. Children under 5 years old can come along and meet Charlie the Chimp on the third Friday of every month. Parents are encouraged to participate with their youngsters. The charge is only £4.50 with siblings under 1 admitted for free.

Brooklands Museum

This is a must see. Brooklands was the first motor racing circuit in the world and widely acknowledged as the birth place of aviation. There is so much to see so make sure your digital camera is on full charge. Once here visitors can explore over 30 different aircraft which are housed in the museum and stand back in awe at one of the last remaining Concords on display. There are a multitude of models of all types to see. The museum is just a stone’s throw away from Thorpe Park so don’t miss out!

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by dodge challenger1

This list of things to do (besides go to Thorpe Park) was written by Thorpe Breaks; offering you exclusive deals on all Thorpe breaks hotels and tickets.

View Places to Visit in Thorpe Park (Which aren’t Thorpe Park) in a larger map

The post Places to Visit in Thorpe Park (Which aren’t Thorpe Park) | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Castle Coch

Located in the village of Tongwynlais just north of Cardiff, Coch Castle is favoured for its ideal fairy tale resemblance. Visitors are attracted right away by the fluted towers and charming drawbridge. Built upon the ruins of a former keep, the castle represents more of an impressive work of art than a military fortress. Designed in a Gothic Victorian style, the castle also features a beautiful ornate interior. The Lady Butte’s room is well worth checking out with its mirrored ceilings. From the top of the battlements, visitors can get splendid views across the Cardiff area. Surrounded by lush woodland, the castle grounds offer several walking and cycling trails and picnic spots.

Photo released under public domain. Source: wikipedia

Carreg Cennen Castle

Located in the village of Trapp, a few miles south of Llandeilo is the spectacular castle of Carreg Cenne. The castle is well noted for its strategic defence position atop a steep limestone cliff. Human remains found at the castle area have presented evidence of people living at the site as far back as prehistoric times. Rich in history, the castle has seen its share of sieges and battles and even being damaged during the War of the Roses. Visitors can tour the square court surrounded by high towers, the drawbridge and even explore a cave tunnel beneath the castle. Stunning views of the area can be seen from the tower and battlement tops.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by zingyyellow…wish I could bend space/time

Caernarfon Castle

Built in 1284, this Norman castle is one of the most popular attractions in Wales. The architectural beauty, hexagonal towers and imposing presence set it apart from other castles. It was here that the fourth son of Edward I was born and crowned as Prince of Wales. The castle was used in 1969 for the investiture of Charles, Prince of Wales. The castle features everything one expects in a castle from its lovely turrets, towers, interesting passageways and murder holes. From the tower top, visitors can see across the Menai Strait with its elegant suspension bridge and lovely countryside.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Bladeflyer

Pembroke Castle

Located in the west of Wales, the castle is well noted for its significance in Britain’s history as the birthplace of Henry VII. Founded in 1093 by Roger of Montgomery, it was also the residence of the Earl of Pembroke. The castle is so huge that it can take up to a half of a day to tour it. Here, visitors can explore corridors and rooms featuring tables that depict the history of the castle. Wander the outside grounds and feed swans at a nearby pond.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Wendy Mann

Conwy Castle

Located on the north coast of Wales, this beautiful castle was originally a stronghold built by Henry III and later replaced by King Edward I. Built on a high rock precipice, the castle is said to be haunted by an earlier resident. Featuring high curtain walls and eight round towers, the castle presents a dominating presence. Climb to the top for incredible views of the area. Children can learn about the castle’s history through a children’s trail and interactive displays.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Phillip Capper

Written by www.worldwidetravelguide.co.uk

View Five Best Castles to See in Wales United Kingdom in a larger map

The post Five Best Castles to See in Wales | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Jean-Pol GRANDMONT

Ajaccio

Ajaccio straddles a gorgeous bay and is very much a Riviera town with its spacious squares and elegant, upmarket marina. The towns are beautiful and tasteful with some fantastic restaurants and cafes. The 15th century Genoese citadel is a great place to wander and the muse Fesch is home to an incredible collection of renaissance paintings by Botticelli, Titian and Poussin. Of course the town’s beaches are a firm favourite with travellers and the Plage Trottel is the better of the two.

Le Golfe de Porto

Le Golfe de Porto region contains Corsica’s most beautiful landscapes and the blue bay and red cliffs make the area dramatic to say the least. The rock formations of Calanches de Piana are well worth visiting and the surrounding mountains and vast pine forests are a fantastic place to hike and enjoy yourself. Diving is also incredible here if you are feeling adventurous.

Calvi

Calvi is perhaps the most impressive town of Corsica and it certainly has the most impressive history and architecture. The 6km sandy beach is the biggest draw for many but beyond that the town is incredibly impressive. The imposing citadel of Calvi against the mountainous backdrop is an incredible sight to behold. The town itself plays home to the Haute Ville full of twisting cobbled lanes and stairways and the medieval architecture and beautiful street cafes are a fantastic place to stroll and relax. Villas line the outer reaches of town as you head to some of the most beautiful countryside and the mountains.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Pierre Bona

Corte

Corte lies at the base of a mountain range with stunning views and is one of the most idyllic locations of Corsica. The citadel and museum of Corsica make a great day trip and you can stroll the castle’s ramparts and enjoy a fantastic view. The town’s main street is a fantastic shopping and street café area with plenty of pokey boutiques and places to rest.

Bonifacio

Bonifacio’s location is what makes it so incredible. Its perched along an isolated peninsula at the most southerly point of the island. The town has a unique identity and the huge citadel is a great place to explore before walking along to the marina. The beaches along the coast are incredible and well worth exploring.

Where to stay
There are plenty of accommodation options on the island from camping to all-inclusive resorts. The main towns have an abundance of hotels with some particularly good ones to be found in Calvi. Along the coast there are few large resorts but villas in Corsica along small bays and in small villages are fantastic. Camping lets you get into the heart of Corsican countryside and is a great option for hiking and walking.

View A quick tour of Corsica France in a larger map

The post A quick tour of Corsica | France appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Martin Belam

The city of Larnaca is built on the site of an ancient Kition – the old city, whose ruins can be found about a kilometer of Larnaca’s city centre. Its existence is documented also in Larnaca’s archaeological museum featuring a collection of ceramics from ancient Kition, as well as in Neolithic settlement Khirokitia situated near Larnaca.

Khirokitia is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean and is protected by an international organization UNESCO. Area around Larnaca Salt Lake is a home to thousands of flamingos in winter, but dries up in summer and only a layer of salt remains here. Beaches are darker, with fine sand, somewhere with pebbles or small stones. The sea around Larnaca boasts clean turquoise water.

Larnaca was founded between the 11th and 14th century BC. During its existence, has undergone a terrible destruction of the Persians in the Greco-Persian War.

From the top sights in Larnaca I should mention renovated tomb of Neolithic settlements Khirokitia, Roman glassware, Agios Lazaros Church, located in the southern part of the city which was built in the 10th century by Byzantine Emperor Leo VI the Wise. Today the church hosts Byzantine museum.

About 20km west of the city you can visit Greek Orthodox Stavrovouni monastery which is located at the top of Stavrovouni mountain at an altitude of 680 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the coastal landscape and the Troodos mountains.

And if you will go more to the south you can see a very prominent Muslim shrine called Hala Sultan Tekke or the Mosque of Umm Haram. Anyway, once you visit Larnaca with its surroundings you will certainly not be disapointed!

View Larnaca – one of the major cities of Cyprus in a larger map

The post Larnaca – one of the major cities of Cyprus appeared first on Europe Explored.

Venice is absolutely the most important tourist destination from all places located on the northern coast of the Adriatic Sea. With its romantic location and a unique charm attracts thousands of tourists from around the world every year. Its historical, artistic and cultural heritage makes it the world’s cultural center. There are several museums and galleries of all mankind. During the year it is also home to many large celebrations and festivals.

Venice, the capital of Veneto, have over 360,000 inhabitants, of which, however, only about 100,000 live in historic city of Venice or on the islands in the lagoon. The rest live on the coast of Venice-Mestre (Venezia – Mestre). This part consists of industrial and transportation center, it’s a new part of Venice. Historic centre of Venice is situated on total of 117 islands and islets, which are connected by 409 bridges. There are no roads or cars, but instead of those you can see here 177 canals with romantic boats and gondolas.

History

City, which we now know as Venice, was founded in distress, when residents, at the end of the Roman Empire, scuttled away into uninhabited and empty regions, where they found safe against barbaric tribes. So gradually people settled the islands and in the year 810 they established a town here. Shortly after that, in the year 827, there was founded the bishopric. Venice was first a Byzantine colony, but gradually it made independent and its power and wealth grew up.

In 1204 the Venetians participated in the conquest of Constantinople (Istanbul) and Venice reached the top of its golden age.

When the Turks conquered Constantinople in 1453, began a time of slow decline, which continued by moving the trade routes from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean. There were also large European countries standing against Venice. In the 18th century, Venice dominated only its surroundings, and in 1797 felt itself under the Habsburg yoke. In the years 1805 – 1815 belonged to Napoleonic satellite state and then again to the Habsburgs until 1866, when finally joined the Italian kingdom, later Republic.

Venice’s Islands and channels

Venice lies, as already mentioned, at 117 islands, connected by over 400 bridges. In addition to channels there are also lanes for pedestrians in the streets, so you can get anywhere in the old Venice on foot.

The city is divided into traditional administrative districts (called Sestiere): Cannaregio, Castello, San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo and Santa Croce. The most attractive tourist district is San Marco, where is the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Cathedral, Piazza di San Marco and the Piazzetta with two columns, symbols of Venice.

The most important is Canal Grande over which you can get through 4 bridges or by numerous ferries.

On one side of the Canal Grande is the railway station (Stazione Venezia S. Lucia) and even nearby is a bus station Piazzale Roma. Those are the two entrances to the city. At the other end of the channel is St. Mark’s Square with the great church of St. Mark and the Doge’s Palace.

Orientation is relatively easy because you can use the vaporetto water bus along the Canal Grande or around Venice, or go on foot. There are lots of directional signs to the most important objects (S. Marco, Rialto, Rerrovia). They can navigate you anywhere even without using a map of the city.

Accommodation in Venice

When booking a room, make sure that your hotel lie in the main part of Venice, because then you can easily get everywhere on foot. Mainly cheaper hotels and hostels lie on the surrounding islands or mainland, from which you are then transported by a ferry to Venice centre. An advantage of staying out of the city centre can be, in addition to lower prices, that those hotels mainly have a parking spot available for you when arriving by car. And in addition to the city centre you will see also its surroundings which is interesting and nice as well. I could recommend staying in some of the camping sites located at Punta Sabbioni, where you can get easily by car and transport to Venice’s centre by regular ferry.

Culture and heritage

For careful examination you would need several months, for further explore reserve at least three days, preferably more. However, even within a single day you can see many beautiful and very interesting sights.

Architecture and walks

In each local area (Sestiere) you will find dozens of churches, palaces and houses of exhibition that are worth seeing, also all kinds of shops worth exploring. Venice, it is a pure joy of discovering something new.

Venice, however, is not attractive only because of its art and history. Venice’s romance lies also in the sunset over the lagoon. Even if you come just for a single day, be sure to do the walk through small streets, narrow bridges, around the channels. Also experience, when you get lost in the old streets, is one of the finest travel experiences, make sure you do not miss this opportunity. It’s really worth it!

View Venice – the most important tourist destination at Adriatic Sea Italy in a larger map

The post Venice – the most important tourist destination at Adriatic Sea | Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Bruce Tuten

Athens was allegedly established in the 3rd millennium BC, but according to writings and documentation it was at the beginning of the 8th century BC. Significant development of Athens started in 547 BC during the reign of Peisistratos. At that time he began to build a temple on the Acropolis, which is a flat-topped rock that rises 150 metres above sea level. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Democracy reached its peak during the reign of Pericles. In this “golden period” Athens was also home to the philosopher Socrates and many representatives of the ancient tragedy as Sophocles, Aeschylus and Euripides. In 395 the Athens with the whole Greece became a part of the Byzantine Empire (Eastern Roman Empire).

New expansion of Athens returned in the 12th century when the Greek population began to come back. In the 15th century, the city came under Ottoman domination of the Turks and rebuilt it in his own image. In 1822, when the War of Independence took place, the Greeks conquered the local Turkish fortress which was built on the Acropolis, and drove the Turks from Athens. Four years later, however, came back and managed to suppress the Greek uprising. In 1830 Greece declared its independence and eventually Athens was ready for a new era of glory. In 1832, Athens became the capital of Greece, which until then was located in Nafplio.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by drdcuddy

Architecture of Athens is a very cosmopolitan, as well as the city itself. There are countless monuments, therefore one of the main sources of income for the city is tourism. You can admire the original preserved ancient Greek monuments, relics of the period of the Roman Empire, Byzantine sanctuary as well as you can follow the development of modern Greek architecture. In addition, many buildings constructed in the late 19th century were designed along the lines of ancient buildings. Squares and parks feature the most ancient statues of Greek gods, philosophers and heroes fighting for the independence of Greece.

When you visit Athens you should definitely not miss its massive landmark, the Acropolis. Its top is decorated with columns of the Parthenon. Acropolis (Upper Town) can be found in a number of Greek cities, but that one in Athens is certainly the most famous in the world. Construction of the Parthenon, which is made of marble extracted from local quarries, lasted for 9 years and was completed in 438 BC. It has impressive dimensions (69.5 metres x 30.5 metres) and a simple and elegant Doric style. Parthenon is now undoubtedly one of the most interesting and best preserved ancient monuments in Greece. According to historians once shone colors – red, green and blue, and its main item was 12 metres high statue of goddess Athena, after which the city is named. The original model of the Parthenon can be seen in the National Archaeological Museum. Parthenon was partially restored in the 19th century, but archaeological works are still taking place here.

As the Parthenon was a place of worship, the Agora was the place of a simple life of Athenians. It was a place of markets, schools, spas and ordinary citizens homes. About 100 m east of the ancient Agora lies the Roman Forum (the marketplace). Although the place looks a bit old, it includes one of the rarest sights of Athens – The Tower of the Winds. Other important structures here are the Fethiye Tzami Mosque from 1458 and Hadrian’s Library.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by budget travel accommodation

Other interesting places include Monastiraki Square, famous for its shops and stalls where you can buy anything. If you find something that is not possible to buy here, then it is probably not possible to buy anywhere else in Athens. The best atmosphere here is on Sunday morning, when the market floods the surrounding small streets and stretches up to the Kerameikos cemetery. This small cemetery, which served as a burial already in the 12th century BC is a quiet refuge and an oasis of greenery. On Monastiraki Square you can find the Byzantine church, which is now surrounded with modern buildings and shops with various goods. This old town district was formerly the heart of Ottoman Athens. Already under Turkish domination it was a place of the main market, so the area still retains a similar Oriental character. You can sit and rest comfortably in one of the tavernas and cafes with a view of the Agora.

If you want to rest, come to Plateia Mitropoleos – cathedral square. In fact there are two cathedrals, small and large one. On the right side is a Little Mitropoli – temple built in the 12th century and dedicated to St. Eleftherios. The interior of the temple resembles a cave and is illuminated by votive candles. There is spiritual atmosphere. The temple is decorated with graceful sculptural works. Other attractions of this district are Tsistaráki Mosque from 1759, Fethyie Mosque. Very beautiful is also the Byzantine church Kapnikaréa from 11th century.

Plaka is a tourist favorite district stretches in eastern and northern foot of the Acropolis. You will find here such as the Museum of Greek Folk Art, Kanellopoulos Museum or the Museum of folk instruments. Plaka is also known for a number of bars, restaurants, cafes and tavernas. As early as Byzantine times, it was the center of everyday life and is currently one of the most visited places in Athens. When you visit Plaka you should not miss a visit to one of the local restaurants and try traditional Greek cuisine.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Börkur Sigurbjörnsson

In the center of Athens you can find Syntagma Square, whose name could be translated as the Constitutional Square. It is one of the most important squares in the Greek capital, the home of important institutions, companies. It is a place of a popular guards’ changing of the National Guard. Perhaps the most expressive building in the square is the building of the Greek Parliament, which is sometimes also called Vouli. Construction of the original Royal Palace was completed in 1842. From its balcony, a King Otto I. proclaimed the first Greek constitution. The square hosts many banks and also a number of important buildings such as the National Library, the University or the Academy of Arts. Near Syntagma Square have been found remains of the largest temple in all over Greece – Temple of Olympian Zeus. Columns were 17 metres high and it took incredible 700 years until the temple was completed.

Around the Parliament buildings are situated National Gardens, which are also known as Royal Gardens, because they were established together with the palace. Gardens with an area of ​​16 hectares offer a pleasant rest. In small lakes you can see the sea turtles. You can enjoy the marble statues and fountains, and refresh yourself in one of the cafes that are located here. In the southern part of the gardens is Zappeion palace from the 19th century. This spectacular building was originally built for the Greco-Roman cousins Evangelos and Konstantinos Zappas, who wanted to use it as a hall for holding the tournament competitions. Zappeion palace currently serves as a conference center.

One of the most famous part of the Athens is undoubtedly Kolonaki, where compared to other parts of the city you will find much more galleries, antique shops and boutiques with fashionable clothing. There is also Kyklad Goulandris Museum of Art, which belongs to one of the most interesting buildings of the city. This modern museum was opened in 1986 and now shows the collection of 5000 years old artefacts from the Aegean and Cyprus. Kolonaki is a home to the Benaki Museum, which is one of the most important Greek institutions. It preserves and protects the cultural legacy of Hellenism. It is one of the largest and oldest museums in Greece. One of the most famous shopping street, which intersects the Kolonaki area, is Tsakalof Street. Right here you can find absolutely the most luxurious, most peculiar, and of course the most expensive goods throughout Athens. The street is rated among the six most expensive streets in the world.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Institute for the Study of the Ancient World

Another tourist attraction is the Athenian limestone hill Lykavittos, that reaches an altitude of 277 metres and is visible from any part of the Greek capital. From its top, where stands the Chapel of Agios Georgios, you can enjoy a beautiful views of the city.

Among the most busiest places in the city is Omonoia Square, the center of all commerce and nightlife. It is a key point of the whole city, and no other place can match it. The most important tourist attractions of the surrounding area is the National Archaeological Museum. This is one of the leading institutions of its kind in the world. If you want to see all the parts and collections of the museum, one day would certainly not be enough.

Athens is in addition to its heritage, unfortunately, also known as one of the noisiest cities in the world. It is among the cities with the lowest ratio of green space per capita in Europe – officially has only two square meters of greenery per capita. Also, the population density is very high. Through the streets run 4000 buses, at least 14,000 taxis and countless cars. So the main problem of the city is very busy traffic associated with never-ending smog. The Greek government took actions to reduce traffic so the situation is improving. Great improvements in the infrastructure of the city brought a summer Olympic Games hosted by Athens in 2004.

View Athens – one of the noisiest and most important cities in the world Greece in a larger map

The post Athens – one of the noisiest and most important cities in the world | Greece appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by am_

Guimarães, which is reportedly the oldest city in the whole of Portugal, was built in the middle of slightly hilly landscape. In 1139, Alfonso Henriques proclaimed himself king Alfonso I. and chose Guimarães for his royal seat. Although the capital city of Portugal moved quickly to the city of Coimbra and the seat of a king to the city of Porto, Guimarães remained forever a birthplace of the nation. The proof of the city’s importance is the characteristic shape of the local castle, which appears on the Portuguese coat of arms in the middle of the state flag.

The city center is full of the narrow medieval streets that are lined with shops and cafes and invite you to a pleasant walk. The oldest street is Rua de Santa Maria, which is paved with cobblestones and decorated with the old houses with ornate statues. It leads from the main square, Largo da Oliveira, along the palace Paço dos Duques up to the castle. This is the biggest tourist attraction of the city.

Castle Castelo de Sao Miguel is composed of huge square castle tower, which is surrounded by eight smaller towers with battlements. It was built in the 10th century to protect the city against attacks of Moors and Normans. About 200 years later, it was spread thanks to the initiative of Henry of Burgundy. According to the legend, Alfonso I. The chapel inside has a mysterious character because the floor is made of gravestones of the first Portuguese kings and their ancestors.

During your visit you should not miss a visit to the charming church of São Francisco, which was built in 1400 in the Gothic style.

City of Guimarães is also known for its football club Vitória de Guimarães. The stadium is located in the northwestern part of Guimarães and is quite large in comparison with the city. Forests surrounding Guimarães consist mainly of non-native eucalyptus. The current population of the city is more than 52,000 inhabitants.

View Guimarães – oldest and one of the most important historical cities of Portugal in a larger map

The post Guimarães – oldest and one of the most important historical cities of Portugal appeared first on Europe Explored.