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- April 01, 2023 0

Tips and Guidelines for a Memorable Rail Travel Experience in Europe


As one of the most efficient and convenient ways to explore Europe, rail travel offers an array of benefits for tourists. From the stunning views of the European countryside to the ease of city-to-city transportation, Europe's rail system is an ideal way to travel. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about rail travel in Europe, including how to purchase tickets, types of trains, luggage restrictions, and more.


How to Purchase Train Tickets for Europe 

When it comes to purchasing train tickets for Europe, there are several options available. You can purchase tickets online or in person at a train station. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for high-speed trains and during peak travel times. There are also several websites and apps that can help you find and book train tickets, such as Rail Europe and Trainline. 

Types of Trains in Europe 


Europe's rail system offers a range of train types, from local trains to high-speed trains. It's important to consider the type of train you want to take when planning your itinerary. Local trains are slower and make more stops, but they can be more affordable. High-speed trains, on the other hand, are faster and more comfortable, but they can also be more expensive. Some of the most popular high-speed trains in Europe include the Eurostar, TGV, and ICE. 



Luggage Restrictions on Trains in Europe 


While you can bring luggage on the train, it's recommended to pack light for ease of mobility. Most trains have luggage storage areas or overhead compartments for smaller bags. However, larger bags may need to be stored in a separate luggage compartment, which may require an additional fee. It's important to check the luggage restrictions for your specific train beforehand. 

Reservation Requirements for Trains in Europe 

Not all trains require reservations, but some high-speed and international trains do. It's important to check the train's schedule and reservation requirements beforehand. You can usually make reservations online or in person at a train station. Some reservations may have a fee, while others are included in the ticket price. 


Discounts for Train Travel in Europe 


There are various discounts available for train travel in Europe, such as youth discounts, senior discounts, and group discounts. Additionally, purchasing a rail pass can also provide cost savings for multiple trips. Rail passes can be purchased online or in person at a train station. It's important to consider the type of rail pass that best fits your travel plans. 



Food and Drink on Trains in Europe 


You can bring food and drinks on the train, but it's important to be respectful of other passengers and not bring strong-smelling foods. Additionally, some trains have dining cars or snack carts available. It's important to check the specific train's amenities beforehand. 



Arriving at the Train Station 

It's recommended to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure, but it's best to check the specific train's requirements beforehand. When arriving at the station, you'll need to find your platform and train. It's important to keep your ticket and ID handy, as you may need to present them when boarding the train. 



Changing Train Tickets 

Some train tickets are changeable or refundable, but it's important to check the specific ticket's terms and conditions beforehand. Some tickets may have a fee for changes or refunds. If you need to change your train ticket, you can usually do so online or in person at a train station. 

Safety on Trains in Europe 

Rail travel in Europe is generally considered safe. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas and at train stations. Keep your valuables with you at all times and be cautious of pick pockets. It's also important to follow any safety guidelines or announcements on the train. 


Expertise in the Travel Industry

As a travel enthusiast with years of experience exploring the Europe by rail, I have gained a wealth of knowledge about Europe's railway system. My qualifications include a degree in travel and tourism management and extensive experience working in the travel industry. My passion for travel and trains has led me to explore the continent's vast rail network and gain first-hand knowledge of the benefits and challenges of this mode of transportation.


Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Can I bring my pet on the train? 
A: Generally, pets are allowed on trains in Europe, but there may be specific rules and restrictions depending on the train and destination. It's important to check with the specific train operator beforehand. 

Q: How far in advance should I book my train tickets? 

A: It's recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially for high-speed trains and during peak travel times. Booking at least a few weeks in advance can help you secure better prices and seats. 

Q: Can I bring my bike on the train? 

A: Some trains allow bikes on board, but there may be specific rules and restrictions. It's important to check with the specific train operator beforehand. 

Q: What is a rail pass and how does it work? 

A: A rail pass allows you to travel on multiple trains within a certain period of time. There are various types of rail passes available, such as a Eurail Pass or Interrail Pass. It's important to consider the type of pass that best fits your travel plans and to purchase it before your trip.

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For more information on Europe rail travel, check out the following reputable sources:

  • Rail Europe: https://www.raileurope.com/
  • Eurail: https://www.eurail.com/
  • Interrail: https://www.interrail.eu/en

    • By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be well-prepared for your rail travel adventure in Europe. Whether you're exploring one country or multiple destinations, rail travel is a great way to experience the beauty and convenience of Europe.


    Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you make a purchase through these links. This is at no extra cost to you and helps us keep this website running. We only recommend products or services that we personally use and trust.

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    - March 28, 2023 0

    Experience the Best of Springtime in Amsterdam, Berlin, Edinburgh, and More

    Spring is a season of renewal and rejuvenation, making it the perfect time to embark on a memorable spring break adventure. 

    Europe is home to a diverse range of destinations that come to life in the springtime, offering travellers the opportunity to experience a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. 

    In this article, we'll explore the best kept secrets of some of Europe's most amazing cities for spring break. From Amsterdam's picturesque canals to Edinburgh's medieval Old Town, and from Berlin's thriving arts scene to Reykjavik's famous geothermal pools, these destinations are sure to provide an unforgettable spring break experience. 

    So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the best of springtime in Amsterdam, Berlin, Edinburgh, and more.



    Lisbon, Portugal

    Lisbon is a charming city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a relaxed vibe. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, parks, and historic landmarks, including the famous Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery. Lisbon also offers a variety of nightlife options, including lively bars and clubs.

    The City Of Porto, Portugal

    Nice, France

    Located on the French Riviera, Nice is a picturesque city with beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can soak up the sun on the beach or explore the city's many museums and galleries. Nice also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.

    Amsterdam, Netherlands

    Amsterdam is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and fun. Visitors can explore the city's picturesque canals, museums, and parks, or enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife. Amsterdam is also known for its relaxed vibe, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a laid-back atmosphere.

    Berlin, Germany

    Berlin is a city that offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, or enjoy the city's many museums and galleries. Berlin also has a diverse nightlife scene, with everything from underground clubs to trendy bars.

    Rome, Italy

    Rome is a city that offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Vatican, or enjoy the city's many museums and galleries. Rome also has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.

    Visit Rome, Italy





    Reykjavik, Iceland

    Reykjavik is a unique destination that offers stunning natural beauty, a thriving arts scene, and a vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore Iceland's famous geothermal pools, take a tour of the Golden Circle, or enjoy the city's many museums and galleries. Reykjavik is also known for its lively music scene, with plenty of bars and clubs offering live music performances. 

    Dubrovnik, Croatia

    Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a beautiful city with stunning architecture, a rich history, and a lively nightlife. Dubrovnik offers everything from beachside bars to historic landmarks, making it a great destination for a spring break trip.


    Visit Valencia

    Barcelona, Spain

    Barcelona is a vibrant city with a unique culture, delicious food, and stunning architecture. Visitors can enjoy the warm weather and explore the city's landmarks, including the famous Park Guell and the Sagrada Familia. Barcelona also has a thriving nightlife scene, making it a great choice for spring breakers.

    Athens, Greece

    Athens is a historic city that offers a unique mix of ancient ruins and modern attractions. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, as well as enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife. With mild temperatures in the spring, Athens is an ideal destination for travellers seeking a mix of culture and fun.

    Visit Athens, Greece

    Edinburgh, Scotland

    Edinburgh is a charming city that offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the city's medieval Old Town, climb Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city, or take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden. Edinburgh also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of pubs and clubs to choose from.


    To ensure the accuracy and expertise of this content, we consulted with travel experts and relied on trusted sources to provide recommendations. We also encourage travellers to research and plan their trips thoroughly, taking into consideration factors such as local customs, weather conditions, and travel advisories.

    In summary, Europe offers a variety of exciting destinations for spring break travel. From the historic city of Athens to the beaches of Nice, travellers can find the perfect destination to suit their interests and preferences. With careful planning and research, a European spring break trip can be an unforgettable experience.



    Here are some additional information to help you plan your trip to the amazing spring break destinations in Europe mentioned in this article. These authority links provide reliable sources of information that can help you make the most of your visit. From booking accommodations and activities to discovering the best restaurants and attractions, these websites offer a wealth of information that can help you plan a memorable and stress-free trip. So whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, be sure to check out these resources to make the most of your European spring break adventure.


    Additional Information: 

    For more information on Amsterdam's picturesque canals and other attractions, you can check out the official tourism website of Amsterdam at https://www.iamsterdam.com/en.

    To learn more about Berlin's thriving arts scene and cultural events, visit the official tourism website of Berlin at https://www.visitberlin.de/en.

    For information on Edinburgh's medieval Old Town and other historic sites, you can explore the official tourism website of Edinburgh at https://edinburgh.org.

    To plan your visit to Reykjavik's famous geothermal pools and other natural wonders, check out the official tourism website of Iceland at https://www.iceland.is.





    Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you make a purchase through these links. This is at no extra cost to you and helps us keep this website running. We only recommend products or services that we personally use and trust.

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    - August 04, 2018 0

    As you might expect from a city that's dubbed “capital of Europe", Brussels enjoys strong transport links – not only within Belgium and Europe but throughout the globe. Brussels has strong rail links with other European countries (including Eurostar which even links to London ) and the city has an efficient internal public transport system that uses underground, trams and buses.

    Getting To Brussels By Air

    Brussels most prolific airport is “ Brussels International Airport " (located in Zaventem) and is 13km away from Brussels city centre. The majority of airlines fly to this destination and as you would expect it has the features & facilities you would expect from a major international airport. From Brussels International, you can reach your ultimate destination by train, taxi or bus.

    Alternatively, Brussels second airport is Brussels Charleroi, which is significantly further away from the city centre. The airport is linked to Brussels midi train station.

    Getting To Brussels By Bus

    Brussels is well connected to various European destinations including the United Kingdom by Bus.

    Most coaches terminate at Bruxelles Nord, after which the traveller can take a train or taxi onto their final destination.

    Getting To Brussels By Train

    The Eurostar operates a full service to Bruxelles Midi, and the Thalys Express also runs between Brussels and destinations including Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne .

    Getting Around Brussels – Trams, Trains, Buses & Taxis

    It's fairly easy and inexpensive to move about within Brussels . A single ticket can be purchased for under 2 euros and can be used anywhere on the STIB network (metros, trams and buses). The network is quite comprehensive so it's fairly easy to hop from one location of Brussels to another. Once you purchase a ticket, you'll need to stamp it using one of the machines located at the station, tram or bus. Don't forget to stamp your ticket – if you're caught without a valid ticket there are hefty fines of up to 55 Euros imposed. There are various options for discounted tickets depending on your length of stay – for around 30 Euros you can grab a “Brussels Card" which allows unlimited public transport travel for three days as well as free admission to various landmarks.

    Public transport in Brussels is made up of a comprehensive yet easy to navigate train system that's well supported by a further network of trams and buses.

    The Tram network is a good way of navigating around the city centre. Trams are quite frequent and not only meander through Brussels town centre but also reach much of the deeper suburban areas. Pick up a free map/timetable from the information point in Gare du Midi, Porte de Namur and Rogier.

    The STIB also operates a bus network throughout the city and this operates at night-time (with less regularity).

    Getting Around Brussels On Foot

    For the active tourist, navigating through the city on foot is a distinct possibility. Many of the interesting landmarks are located fairly close together which makes walking a pleasurable way of seeing the town, particularly in the warmer months. Be sure to grab a map before setting out.


    Author: Frasier Smith   
    Source:              


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    - August 02, 2018 0


    This post may contain compensated links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
    Deciding what is the best time of year to travel to Europe for your holiday can be one of the hardest parts of the decision-making process, particularly for the first-time traveller.  There’s no single ‘best’ time to visit Europe as every traveller’s preferences are different but there are a number of things to consider before you book yourself on that flight.

    Best time to visit Europe weather-wise
    The kind of weather you'd like to experience is going to be a major consideration of your holiday planning. Are you hoping to experience a white Christmas in Europe or the beautiful snowy scenes of a northern winter or would you prefer to travel when it's warmer and you can enjoy the longer daylight hours?


    Your response to this question should help you to decide when the best time to travel to Europe from Australia is for you.
    The best season to go to Europe is going to be different for everyone so I’ve listed a few of the pros and cons of travelling in the various seasons below.

    Pros and cons of travelling to Europe in winter

    If a European winter experience is what you're after, some of the pros of travelling at this time (December/January/February) include missing the Australian summer, experiencing scenery and Christmas food and traditions totally different to what we are used to at home (in Australia) such as the amazing Christmas markets.

    Mid-December through to the end of February - and sometimes even into March - is definitely the best time to visit Europe for snow.


    Every year it seems that Europe’s Christmas markets become more and more popular with tourists and they are a wonderful reason to visit Europe at this time of year.  Many markets open from late November until just after Christmas, with some trading until early January.


    Of course you also have to consider the downsides - shorter daylight hours, some attractions (particularly in rural areas) may be closed for the winter, heavy snowfalls can cause transport delays and make driving difficult, and there's the cold weather and bulky clothing that you’ll need to take to contemplate, too.

    Tour and cruise companies also tend to have a reduced number of itineraries on offer during the colder months, however train services still run frequently.

    Further reading: Tips for travelling to Europe in winter


    Christmas market in Tallinn
    Christmas markets are a major reason for tourists to visit Europe in winter time. This one is in the Estonian capital, Tallinn.

    Pros and cons of travelling to Europe in summer
    During the European summer there's a pretty fair chance you'll enjoy some warm weather. Southern countries like Spain, Italy and Greece (and the south of France) tend to have much higher temperatures than central and northern Europe, but there can be some surprises.
    I have experienced temperatures well above 35 degrees Celcius on numerous occasions in parts of Europe that we don’t normally associate with having high summer temperatures (Austria and northern France, for example).


    I’ve often joked that the summer-loving Europeans should pay me to travel to Europe as I always tend to attract the hot weather!  August is usually the hottest month in Europe - I mostly travel in June and July but have experienced some really hot days during those months.

    If you are visiting one of the southern regions, temperatures can be stifling hot – so check in advance that your accommodation has air-conditioning.

    Another advantage of travelling during the European summer (June/July/August) is the longer daylight hours - with daylight saving it is generally light until at least 9.30pm, and much later in the Scandinavian countries.

    Timetables for ferries, lake cruises, cable car rides, etc are also generally expanded over the summer months.

    I also find there's an air of vitality in Europe during summer - with window boxes bursting with colour, the freshest produce available at the markets, and Europeans out and about and enjoying the weather.

    During the summer months, motorways can also be extremely busy, particularly on weekends, as European holiday-makers head off on their annual break.



    Flower boxes in Riquewihr
    Colourful flower boxes are at their blooming best during the European summer.

    What about Autumn (Fall) and Spring?

    Autumn and Spring are popular times to travel for those who don't enjoy extreme temperatures.  Early Autumn and Late Spring, in particular, can still offer warmish days without being either too hot or too cold so this is considered by many to be the best time to visit southern Europe.

    No matter how carefully you plan, though, unseasonal weather can occur. Major flooding in Germany, Hungary and Poland in June 2013 caused havoc and upset lots of holiday plans, not to mention livelihoods.

    On the other hand, expected snow falls can fail to eventuate as early in the season as normal - your snowy Christmas might turn out to be more of a 'slushy' one!


    The table below shows the (approximate) average monthly temperatures for some of Europe’s major cities.


                     Jan        Mar       May      Jul         Sep       Nov
    Vienna 1°C        9°C        19°C      26°C      20°C      7°C
    Rome    12°C      15°C      22°C      29°C      26°C      17°C
    Zurich   -1°C       5°C        13°C      18°C      14°C        4°C
    Paris      3.5°C     10°C      15°C      19°C      16°C      12°C
    Berlin    -0.5°C   4°C        14°C      19°C      15°C      5°C
    London    5°C      10°C      17°C      22°C      19°C      5°C


    If the weather isn’t the major factor in determining the best time to travel for you to travel to Europe, there are some other considerations to keep in mind.


    Special events
    If you are heading to Europe to attend a special function like a wedding or are hoping to catch a major event such as the Tour de France or the tulip display at Holland’s Keukenhof Gardens, you are obviously going to have to be in a particular place on a specific date.

    Keep in mind that when major events occur (like the Olympic Games or Rugby World Cup, for example), accommodation, flights and other travel services can be stretched to the limit - and prices can increase significantly.


    Tour de France
    Major events can have a big impact on the price and availability of accommodation and flights.


    Crowds
    If you do prefer to travel when it's warmer, be wary of travelling during August. This is the month when many Europeans take their summer holidays (a lot of professional offices in Paris actually close for the whole month!) so wherever you go it is likely to be extremely busy.

    If you don’t like crowds, August is definitely NOT the best month to visit Europe.

    Major sights and attractions can be a nightmare during August with queues of two hours or more just to buy entry tickets not unheard of!!  I always recommend pre-purchasing tickets to attractions you know you will definitely visit, but particularly so if visiting in the peak summer months.

    The late European spring (April/May) and early autumn (September/October) can make a good alternative. If you're not too fussed about high temperatures and definitely want to avoid the crowds, these are good months to visit to Europe.


    Price
    Another factor to consider when planning when you are going to visit is price. I've previously written about some of the tips you should know before you book your flight to Europe, and one of these is that travelling just outside of the airline's 'peak' season can save you a few hundred dollars.

    By departing Australia in May, for example, you might save yourself some money by missing the June 'peak' fares and still be able to enjoy the warmer early-summer days in Europe.


    To start planning your travel to Europe, order complimentary European travel brochures and read all my tips for planning a holiday to Europe here.

    What other factors do you consider when deciding what is the best time to visit Europe? I'd love to hear your comments below.

    Author: Carolyn

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    - August 01, 2018 0



    Step one: slow down. Take your time.

    It's tempting when you plan that big first trip to Europe, to try to do everything, to fit every single highlight into a whirlwind tour around perhaps the planet's most diverse continent. You want to eat pasta in Rome, and stand on top of the Eiffel Tower, and smoke a joint in Amsterdam, and party in Dubrovnik, and, and...

    You can't do it all. Unless you've got years up your sleeve, you're going to have to do some culling. That's one of the keys to enjoying your first stint.

    I got an email a few weeks ago from a guy who's about to set off on his first overseas adventure. His question – "Got any tips for a first-time visitor to Europe?" – sounded like a perfect topic. So here we go.

    First, the culling. Europe is an incredibly diverse continent full of bucket-list, postcard locations, and you can't do them all. If you even attempt to do them all you'll spend more time on buses, trains and planes that you will actually seeing things.

    So here's a tip: choose a top five, your must-dos for that first OS adventure. Maybe it's drinking in the Hofbrauhaus in Munich, or eating tapas in Barcelona, or visiting the Tate Modern in London. Whatever it is, mark those down and plan your trip around them. The between bits will start to fall into place.

    Then you have to figure out how you're getting around. Gnarled old travel dudes like me will tell you to forget about tours and go independent, but that's not necessarily the case. Think about what's right for you. People might sneer at the drunken tour passengers, but the drunken tour passengers are having a ball.

    Maybe start off with a short tour, a 10-dayer, to find your feet in Europe and meet some people. If you fancy the idea of an organised tour like a Contiki or a Topdeck, go for it. If you'd rather a bit more freedom, think about something like Busabout – your transfers and accommodation are organised, but you have far more spare time to explore.

    Prefer to go independent? It's easy enough in Europe. Book hostels ahead using sites like HostelBookers and HostelWorld. Book train tickets online. Book budget flights well in advance. And remember that using intercity buses is often much cheaper than trains or planes.

    Don't avoid the clichés. The Colosseum, the Eiffel Tower and Charles Bridge are all extremely popular with tourists for a reason: they're amazing. Don't feel you have to get off the beaten track just for the sake of it. If the big-ticket items appeal to you, then go and see them.

    By the same token, don't do everything the guidebook tells you. It might say the Louvre is an absolute must-do on a trip to Paris, but maybe you'd have a better day searching for Blek le Rat pieces on alley walls.

    Travel in the shoulder seasons. July, August and September are mental in Europe, when you'll be sharing every single experience with millions and millions of your closest friends. Accommodation will be booked out, or expensive. Trains will be full.

    Think about going in autumn or spring. Or better yet, if you don't mind the cold, go in winter. You'll feel like you have the place to yourself.

    Another thing to consider when you're timing your trip, however, is festivals. Europe does a mean festival, from Oktoberfest to San Fermin to La Tomatina to Biennale to Glastonbury to Exit to Tomorrowland. Get along to any one of those and your holiday just became a lot more memorable.

    Be wary of scams. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That hot Eastern European girl isn't necessarily talking to you because you're so charming. Those guys aren't befriending you because you seem like such a cool Aussie. Go with your instincts.

    Try to get to at least one of Budapest, Krakow or Lisbon. They're all amazing, and underrated. (Although when planning this, take the "do what you want" paragraphs into account.)

    Learn at least a tiny bit of the local language. Even if it's just asking, "Do you speak English?" This very small amount of effort will get you a long way.

    Pack light. You don't need three pairs of jeans in a European summer. You don't need a big tub of laundry detergent. You don't need special "travel" clothes with extra zips bought from some rip-off store.

    You do, however, need a towel. And at least one set of decent clothes to wear when you decide to go for that fancy dinner and don't want to look like a backpacker for a night.

    Lash out on a few amazing experiences that are out of your price range. Budget travel will make your trip last longer but if you plan for one expensive dinner, or a night in a big hotel, or gondola ride in Venice, or high tea in London, or anything similar, you'll never forget it.

    And on that note, my last tip is probably the most important: take lots of money. Lots of money. As much as you can possibly save. And then some more. Don't be the people drinking in the hostel lounge at night because they can't afford to go out. You didn't come all this way to not see the sights.

    Take a few more months to save before you go. Be stingy at home so you can lash out when you're away.

    And most of all: have fun.

    What are your tips for people planning their first trip to Europe? Post your comments below. Are you yet to go to Europe? Post your questions too and let's see if our community of travellers can't answer them.


    Author: bengroundwater

    Source : 
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    - May 22, 2018 0





    The cultural heritage of Europe is one of the key generators of tourism in Europe. Cultural Tourism is believed to account for around 40% of the total number of tourists visiting Europe. Cultural tourism of Europe is also an important means of promoting Europe's image in the world, projecting its varied values which are the result of centuries of cultural exchanges, linguistic diversity, and creativity.

    People visiting Europe believe this is their ultimate chance to learn about transnational cultural tourism. Every product of transnational cultural tourism will project Europe as the zenith of preserved heritage and authentic cultural experience. In 1990 the European Commission nominated as a major factor of Tourism development in Europe. Since then The European Association of Tourism and Leisure Education (ATLAS) has been conducting various studies on transnational cultural tourism with a view to developing it.

    The OECD report released in the year 2009 states the following factors as the drivers of cultural tourism

    •Valorising and preserving heritage
    •Economic development and employment
    •Physical and economic regeneration
    •Strengthening and/or diversifying tourism
    •Retaining population
    •Developing cultural understanding


    With an increasing demand for cultural tourism, the European Union has also realized the need to offer varied cultural attractions and revive their heritage spots for commercialization. Individual countries have started to work towards facing the competition of developing the nation's cultural tourism rate. Cultural Tourism is not just about destinations but about the journey itself, it's a journey of discovery and self-realization.

    Culturally rich spots in the European Union

    Reasons for cultural tourism are resilient as the motives differ across a broad range. Some tourists look for spirituality while some look for creativity. Irrespective of their cultural motives some spots in Europe are a must see as they teach people about the greatness of their ancestors and their tactful way of living.

    St. Peter's Basilica
    This Late Renaissance church stands as the central religious point for Catholics from every part of the world. The place where the church is located, the Vatican Hill is the site where Saint Peter, the chief apostle, died and was buried in 64 AD. St. Peter is considered the first pope, thus building the principal shrine of the Catholic Church in this location is explained. Every painting and sculpture in the church is a true feast to the eyes. The destination attracts tourists looking to study art and architecture as part of their travel.

    The Colosseum

    The Colosseum stands in the city of Rome as the greatest architectural accomplishment of the Romans. The amphitheater that could once accommodate more than 50,000 spectators was the city center of public entertainment. It was used to stage gladiator's fights, mythological dramas, battles between animals and even executions. The most striking feature of this magnum opus is its engineering work that could be compared to temporary techniques. The amphitheater is a standalone subject of study for various cultural aspects of the Romans.

    Clunaic sites in Europe

    Cluny was the center of monastic reform in the 10th century and gradually developed into a church. The work of this church later led to the regeneration of the medieval world through spreading of Christianity, rethinking social relationships and organizing space for an ideal society. Different architectural styles, a unique harmonious shape and its sculptures and paintings of these Clunaic sites that are spread across Western Europe contribute to the wonderful heritage passed on by the monks to future generations.

    Author: Catherine Richard

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