A view of Porto, Portugal by Sunny Ripert

The entire province that Porto is located in is an important commercial center for the country. Today you will find many fine buildings that span the centuries and include cathedrals, churches, mansions and so much more. Nearby, along the river Tâmega, you will find some of the finest mansions in the country, many of which can be dated back to the 17th century and beyond.

Along the banks of the Douro River, you can find the Caves do Vinho do Porto. There are several wine cellars which house more than 50 different types of wine. You can take guided tours throughout the cellars and even have the opportunity to taste some of the finest wines.

Many people chose to stop by and check out the 13th century Sé Catedral which houses many finer artifacts from across the centuries. Then there is the nearby Torre dos Clérigos which is a bell tower that was completed in 1763 and features 225 steps to the viewing level. The 19th century Palácio da Bolsa was the former home of the nation’s Stock Exchange but today stands as a beautiful example of some of the finest workmanship of the era.

There are many great locations throughout the region to experience the culture and history of Portugal. There is the Museu de Serralves which is a contemporary art museum that showcases an amazing collection of art from some of the best Portuguese artists of recent times. The Museu Municipal Abade Pedrosa is a museum dedicated to the medieval times and has a number of important artifacts from the era.

Porto Cathedral, Portugal by Gabriele Margapoti

You may also want to check out the Antiga Cadeia da Relação prison which is now home to the Portuguese Centre for Photography. The Edifício do Instituto do Vinho do Porto is the institute responsible for ensuring the quality of Douro wines.

For some rest and relaxation, you can stop by and visit the Jardim de São Lázaro gardens which were developed back in 1834 or the Jardim do Passeio Alegre gardens which date back to 1870. For the ultimate treat though, spend a day at the Termas de São Vicente hot springs where you can get that much needed rest and relaxation you have been searching for.

Just do not forget that you cannot leave Porto without visiting the Citânia de Sanfins ruins. This 15 hectare archaeological site is the location of some of the most important findings on the entire Iberian Peninsula. You will see ruins from both the Neolithic as well as the Palaeolithic Eras. There are roads and buildings as well as baths that can be dated back several thousand years.

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Scheveningen, The Netherlands by FaceMePLS

1) Scheveningen, Netherlands

This beach may not be able to boast the highest temperatures or the most picturesque seafront, but there are plenty of water sports to take part in and a number of bars and restaurants. However, one of the most appealing things about Scheveningen is its location – you can easily have an early morning dip in the sea before visiting Anne Frank’s House in Amsterdam or one of the 17th century palaces in The Hague.

2) The Curonian Spit, Lithuania

The natural, largely unspoilt beauty of this Lithuanian beach needs to be seen to be believed! Unfortunately it’s a protected World UNESCO Heritage Site and sadly, as a result, there are certain areas that are a no go for tourists. However, the parts you can access are absolutely worth the journey, and this beach is a truly beautiful place to spend a day.

Curonian Spit, Lithuania by Tobin

3) Pembrokeshire, Wales

While you can never depend on good weather in Wales you can certainly depend on absolutely stunning scenery in Pembrokeshire. If you’re not convinced take it from the National Geographic magazine, which voted it the second best coastal destination in the world. It’s easy to fit in as part of a trip round the UK so there’s no excuse for not seeing the area for yourself.

4) Barleycover, Ireland

Again, this beach may generally be cold, but the beautiful natural surroundings in County Cork more than make up for it. This beach could be the perfect antidote to a hectic weekend sightseeing and sampling Ireland’s famous Guinness beer in Dublin, which is only a few hours away by car.

5) Pupnatska Beach, Croatia

The Dalmatian Islands off the coast of Croatia all boast delightful coastlines and, as a result, trying to pick out just one is mightily difficult. However, Pupnatska beach, on Korčula Island is a definite contender thanks to its sapphire waters, stunning white sand, and a friendly, laid back atmosphere.

Pupnatska Luka, Korcula, Croatia by Andrea Musi

6) La Rochelle, France

While the South of France boasts some mesmerising beaches, there are plenty of places on the western coast that can give the south a run for its money. La Rochelle is one such resort. What many people will love about a holiday incorporating La Rochelle is the fact that the area is steeped in history. Many holidaymakers will only feel comfortable sunbathing once they are sure they have explored the town and learnt about its rich history.

7) St. Brelade’s Bay Beach, Jersey

Gorgeous views, interesting trails, lovely restaurants… there’s little if anything to fault with this beautiful beach. And, even better, being on an island the size of Jersey means there’ll be another great beach around every turn. So take a wander and you could find yourself your own private piece of beach!

If you are taking one of the many Europe tours available, do make sure to add a beach into your trip. Europe’s architecture, art, culture, food and history are all wonderful of course, but everyone needs time to relax! And what better way to unwind and rest tired feet than on a beach with truly stunning scenery?

Written by Michael Palmer, a passionate traveller and experienced travel writer.

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Srebarna lake is one of the most significant natural heritage in Bulgaria. The entire lake is surrounded by mosses, which reach a length of more than 1.5 km. The water covers an area of 638 hectares.

You will find here also many rare plants. This place is a paradise for nature lovers and ornithologists.

View Srebarna Nature Reserve – home to hundreds of species of birds Bulgaria in a larger map

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