If you are considering a European break this summer but are a little uncertain where to go, why not forget the usual Paris and Rome and check out the following alternative suggestions instead?
- Florence
Florence is unquestionably one of Europe’s greatest artistic cities. It boasts an exquisite collection and is home to masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s David, canvases by Botticelli, Giotto’s frescoes, and Leonardo da Vinci’s greatest works. The Uffizi Gallery is recommended, but there are so many others it can be hard to know where to start.
There are a whole host of other beautiful things to pursue too, such as endless vineyards just over the hill; or an abundance of cafes, restaurants, theatres, bars and vibrant nightlife. So aside from all her sensational art, Florence is a truly unique and charming city in many ways.
- Prague
Prague is becoming increasingly popular, but it still retains some associations with cheap beer and stag parties. But do not be fooled, this is a masterpiece of a city in so many ways! Boasting world-class museums and art galleries tucked endearingly into an ancient Old Town, as well as a renowned music and cultural scene, there is really something for everyone in Prague.
Music is a huge draw card here, and alongside many festivals and vibrant concerts, the city is also home to a wonderful orchestral and operatic movement. Not to be missed is a night at the opera and be sure to get some more information on the timetable of events closer to your arrival date.
- Dubrovnik
UNESCO listed Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most beautiful walled cities and is growing in popularity year on year.There is no end of delights to be found tucked away down the endearing cobbled streets and side alleys. It is a pedestrian only city, set into the hillside and licked by the Adriatic ocean, and it is a veritable maze of marble and terracotta labyrinths.
You will fall in love with the palazzo, the Baroque churches, the elegant courtyards and the medieval fortifications. There is a beautiful cable-car ride to a summit above the city, which is an absolute must-do at sunset, when the entire city grows red as the sun sinks into the sparkling Adriatic ocean. Throw in some five star hotels, some intriguing history, hundreds of islands just off the coast, and some truly wonderful food; and this is absolutely a place to spoil yourself.
- Istanbul
Istanbul is truly unique, occupying a wonderful position on the Bosphorus Strait, straddling the threshold between Europe and Asia. This special blend of cultures mean it is unlike any other city in the world. It is characterized by its famous old quarter, where oriental domes punctuate mazes of tiny streets, and wooden houses are squeezed into narrow cobbledlanes.
There is a true east-meet-west feel about the entire place. The surrounds are beautiful too; the Sea of Marmara sparkles invitingly to the South, while the bright lights of Beyoğlu tempt in the North.
These are all incredible cities and have so much to offer, so why not avoid the usual Paris and Rome and give one of the above destinations a try this summer?
This list is barely the tip of the iceberg as there are so many other great cities in Europe too! So whatever your passion, be sure to discover it on the continent this summer.