Oh, no! This reaction you have when the holidays are around the corner and plans haven’t been made. With your busy schedule, I believe coming up with a perfect vacation getaway is hard. The headache of starting to look for the ideal Holiday destination is not a joke.
I mean the kids will not understand that you were busy and didn’t have time. They believe it is their right, and that is why I do plan for my family holiday’s months before. This will ensure I put a smile upon their faces and bond with them, plus I also need time to unwind.
Europe is the perfect holiday destination for you and your family. After my first Visit to Portugal, I came to realize the continent is rich with a foreign culture and places to spend the weekends or holiday. Here are some of the places to add to your list.
Best places to visit in Europe
1. Paris
The beautiful Town is located in France.This is one of the best cities in Europe. It is rich with culture and art designs. The city of light has the most beautiful museums that you can visit to learn more about the town. The century-old Churches and architectural plans of the various building will catch your attention. I would recommend having your camera to capture the moment of a lifetime.
The street lamps and cascading trees make it an excellent place to stroll to unwind. Walking down the streets at night is breathtaking. If you are newlywed, Paris is the ideal place for your honeymoon. Fun fact about the lovely city is that River Seine flows through the town. It makes the urban center have spectacular scenery.
For fashion lovers, here is a place to shop and acquire the latest ware to boost your look. But it will cost you a bit of cash. The cuisines that are being prepared in the various restaurants will make your taste buds dance to every bite. The best time to visit the town is from June to August and September to October when the weather is perfect.
See Also: 14 Best things to do in Paris
2. Istanbul
The city is located in Turkey. It embraces the European and Asian cultures. You will notice this from the mode of dressing and the different cuisines in the restaurants. The metropolitan is divided by Bosphorus waterway. It connects the Sea of Marmara in the south of the Black Sea. This gives the city its beautiful and peaceful scenery.
You can start your holiday by visiting the Hagia Sophia building. Its architectural design is unique and breathtaking. The history behind is that it was once a mosque and church before being turned to a museum. The Galata Tower is an iconic build that is located north of the Golden Horn. At the top of the building, you will have a spectacular view of the city. A camera will come in handy at this point.
You cannot leave the city without taking a sip of the Turkish coffee that is splendid. And also play the excellent Backgammon game while strolling in the street. I would not recommend visiting the place if you have kids. Few places can be visited by the kids, and they will get bored quickly.
3. Amalfi Coast
The city is located in the Campania region of Italy. The UNESCO World Heritage site covers 34 miles of the lovely terrain. The Mediterranean Sea presents you with a cool breeze and warm sandy beaches. You can sunbathe and even stroll along the beach. The stunning ocean view will be a thing you won’t forget for a long time.
Thirteen towns are interconnected with the SS163 highway. Driving on this highway will give you a scenic view of the coastal cities. Each city has a story for you hence, making your holiday busy but happy. When passing through Cetara, you can stop and pop in the ancient Norman Tower that was built by Hercules. It is a historic site that will be perfect for exploring.
The Cliffside resort will present you with the Italian dishes to taste. The food is fantastic, something that made me plan for a holiday in the coastal town. You should visit the seaside city and have a bite of the staple seafood.
See Also: 9 Amazing Places to Visit in Amalfi
4. Barcelona
It is located in Spain. The town is historical if you are a historian you will enjoy it the marvels city. You can stroll on the scenic trails of the flamboyant Park Guell to unwind in the evening. For couples, there are the romantic narrow alleys of Barri Gotic, which will enable you to bond.
There are beachside night clubs that will give you the night experience at the town. The architectural model of the buildings is breathtaking. The beach is the ideal place to hang out during the day. The tropical climate is welcoming, breathing the fresh air and swimming in the sea. Your experience will be unforgettable.
See Also: 16 Amazing Things to do in Barcelona
5. London
This is one of the beautiful places to visit in England. The areas that you visit while in the city are the Tower of London and Tate Modern. The tower of London is one of the famous buildings in the world. The history within the walls tells that it was used as a prison and a place of execution.
You can have a magical tour in the Warner Bros. studio and have a glimpse of the behind scenes of Harry Porter. Here you will be able to step into the rooms that were used in the making of the film. If you are fun, you won’t miss it for anything.
The Buckingham Palace, the London residence of the Queen, is a must-visit for you. The palace is opened on the summer period that is between 20th July and 29th September. Your kids will enjoy Sea Life in London. In the aquarium, they will come to see the sea creators that are over 400 species. Some of them include sharks, clownfish, green sea turtles, and moray eels at the aquarium.
See Also: 10 Best things to do in London
6. Budapest
It is located in Hungary. The city has a lot to offer you during the holiday tour. The historical monuments await you to explore. The architectural plans are also remarkable that you will be amazed by them.
The Hungarian State Opera House is located on Andrassy Avenue has an outstanding architectural design. It is classified as one of the world’s most beautiful building. I suggest you have your camera and selfy-stick ready to capture the moment at this historic monument. There are guided tours that are being offered to ensure you join the caravan to be able to learn more.
There is the Buda Castle that is also historical. If you are an art lover, then it is the place to visit when in Budapest. The Castle is home to the Hungarian National Gallery that displays different artworks that are unique. There is also the Great Market Hall, and it is spread over four floors that you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables in the stalls.
The Szimpla Kert is found in the old ruin buildings of Budapest. It has bars and pubs for you to relax after a long day and interact with different people. China Bridge is the perfect place to end your evening, strolling along the bridge as the sunsets are captivating. If you are a couple, then the bridge is an excellent place to end your romantic day.
7. Bohinj
The amazing city is located in Slovenia. It is an ideal place if you want to explore Mother Nature. The forest coverage and the Lake make it a peaceful place to visit during the holidays or weekend. I believe you should start by exploring Lake Bohinj. The calm waters are tucked in between mountains. You can swim in the Lake or relax on the beach and enjoy the peaceful environment.
There is a perfect hiking terrain on the Northside of the Lake. You may decide to cycle on the trails as well. The Savica waterfall is breathtaking; the sound of water falling is therapeutic and makes you forget all your worries.
The International Festival of Wildflowers is a must-attend when in Bohinj. The Vogel Alpine Village is a resort that will offer you accommodation. It also presents you with lots of outdoor activities to undertake as a family. There is zip lining that is not meant for faint-hearted. The resort can be accessed using the cable cars that will give you a magnificent view of the Triglav Mountains and the Lake.
8. Prague
The city is located in the Czech Republic and the ideal holiday destination for you. It is an old town and has River Vltava that cuts across the city. It has a lot that will keep you busy during the holiday trip. The medieval streets are perfect for you to stroll during the day. It has a lot of history that needs to be scrutinized with a historical eye. You may as well walk downstream, listening to the sound of water flowing and admiring the water birds.
There is the Infant Jesus of Prague that is located in Mala Santa, right at the center of the town. If you are a believer, then you may visit the shrine to pray and make wishes. It dates back to the 16th Century. The Charles Bridge is also an excellent place to stroll and unwind during the holiday.
Well, if you are a historian, then you will find it enjoyable exploring the Old Jewish Ghetto. The town is situated between the Old Town and River Vltava. History was made during the 13th Century when the Jewish in the city were forced to settle in one place. Six synagogues are still standing up to date. This is a must-visit for you as a believer or a historian.
There is also the KGB museum that was established by a Russian enthusiast. It holds the different items that were used, such as spy cameras, interrogative weapons, and secret weapons. This seems to be a movie, but it is a reality you will attest to it. The Lennon wall is famous for its various artworks and lyrics to songs that backdate to 1980s. The Czech dishes are finger linking, and you will enjoy every bite.
9. Lisbon
The town is found in Portugal. There is a lot to engage in once in the city. The Berardo Collection Museum and The National Museum of Ancient Art are ideal for art lovers to feast their eyes on the items.
The shark aquarium is perfect for you and your family to explore. There is also the Lisbon Oceanarium located out on the blue waters of Tagus Estuary that shows the marine life. Your kids will love it being in the aquarium and also learn.
The Torre de Belem is a historical landmark that you should visit when touring Portugal. The building has a unique design, and it was constructed in the 16th Century. The national title museum is found in Lisbon. It traces the history of tile making, which gave the country a reputation for craftsmanship.
If you are tired of the city, then you can head down to the beach to experience the tropical climate. At the beach, you can take sunbath, swim, or even engage in watersport such as surfing. If you have never surfed before, do not worry, surf lessons are being offered at the beach.
The palace of the Marquises of Fronteira has a stunning architectural design that the cameras can only capture this. The view is spectacular that it cannot be ignored and unappreciated.
See Also: 10 Amazing Things to do in Lisbon
10. Hvar Island
The beautiful Island is situated in Croatia. It is rich in culture and a calm sea you can swim in the clear water. There is the traditional dish of Grenada that is a must-have when on the Island.
History is vital to learn about the old town in Stari Grad Museum. You will be able to discover remnants of ceramics, coins, and stonework. There is also the Croatian Renaissance that awaits you to explore. Poet Petar Hektorovic built the famous building as a protection against attacks from Turks.
For hikers, there is the 45-minute hike east of Hvar town towards Milna. Have your gears ready to explore and have a lovely view of the crystal-clear white stoned Mekicevica Bay.
The main wine bar in the town offers you a cozy space to relax. You will be able to sample the best wines in Croatia at the bar. Your family can enjoy the boat rides around the Pakleni Islands that are close by.
11. Bilbao
The peaceful city is located in Spain. It is the central hub of art, architectural designs, and museums. If you treasure art as much as I do, then the Guggenheim Museum will blow your mind. The museum showcases art from various artists such as Anish Kapoor, Yves Klein, and Anselm Kiefer. The more significant artworks are displayed outside the museum, which is known as the Art District.
There is the Museo Bellas Artes that also showcase various art collections for you to feast your eyes. The Cathedral de Bilbao is located right at the heart of Casco Viejo district. The famous building has a unique design, and it was built in the 15th Century. It has two patios, which are Neoclassical and Renaissance.
You and the family can take a cable ride to the top of the mount Artxanda. You will be treated to a spectacular view of the municipality from the top. It is a memorable moment that will forever remain engraved in your mind. You can as well enjoy boat rides down the Ria de Bilbao, which is the perfect way to explore the different places in the metropolitan. You can stroll down the streets to be amazed by the sunset view. I believe that the most attractive places are found along the Riverbank.
The towns Balmaseda and Orduna surround Bilbao. The Basque coast is 30 minutes away from the city. The beach is a perfect gateway to go and swim in the clear waters. Letting your feet sink in the warm sand. The famous market is of La Ribera is situated at the edge of Casco Viejo next to the river. Here you can pick some of the fresh local produce.
12. Amsterdam
The lovely metropolitan is located in the Netherlands. The is one of the best destination in Europe. The capital has the most beautiful places to spend your holiday. The climate is welcoming, and your family will enjoy the area as well. Various iconic museums should top your list when you set foot in the city. The iconic museums include Ann Frank House that holds the Ann’s Diary, which she wrote the horror stories of her life. The story will move you.
There is also the Rijksmuseum which display the world’s most famous art from various artists such as The Night Watch by Rembrandt Van Rijn, Dutch paints, and relics. Van Gogh Museum has all the amazing artworks from the famous Vincent Van Gogh. Here you will be able to sample most of his works. Therefore, learning what inspired him to have a huge passion for art. The Heineken museum allows you to explore the place where the world-famous drink was processed, how it grew from a local product to an international product.
If you are a football fanatic, then you won’t want to miss out in the Johan Cruijff Arena stadium tour of the Ajax football team playground. Your kids have a place in the town to be engaged in. They can visit the Artis Amsterdam Zoo.
There is also the Nemo Science Museum that they will enjoy and also learn as well during the holiday or weekend. If you are a cat person, then you will love the catboat. It is the only animals floating shelter in the world. Also, there is the Houseboat Museum that will leave you wondering how it works. But the scenery is breathtaking.
The Amsterdam Canal Belt is an ideal venue to relax and unwind. For couples or families, you may decide to have a picnic at the Parks in Amsterdam. They are peaceful and well maintained to ensure you are comfortable. The restaurants will give you a taste of the different flavors of dishes. The Dutch and Indonesian restaurants will prepare a wonderful meal for you to enjoy. You can head to the Amsterdam coffee shops hang out after a long day and relax.
The Amsterdam Light Festival that is to start on 28th November 2019 to 19th January 2020. The event is celebrated, and this year, I would not miss it for anything. If you can get to have a vacation between these months, why not join the celebrations. Believe me; the experience will be remarkable.
See Also: 10 Best Things to do in Amsterdam
13. Kotor
The metropolitan is found in Montenegro. Fortifications built during the Venetian era surround the old Mediterranean port town. You may start exploring the various museums in the city. There is a Cat Museum that is found in the town. It holds a significant history in the city. If you are a cat lover, then this is the place to visit.
You can hike up the Castle of San Giovanni; the view on top of the fortress is incredible. Though, during summer, it would be hot to climb. I would suggest doing it in the morning or the evening. The boat tours through the Bay of Kotor will be perfect for you and the family to relax and bond. You may as well take a swim while on the journey.
Our lady of the rock is an island that was man-made by sailors. It is a beautiful island that is a must-visit when in the city. Here you will learn about the history of the metropolitan and how it came to be.
The seafood is splendid, and you cannot leave without tasting these delightful dishes. There is a rocky beach which is found a few meters away from the town. If you like to explore new places or site the beach will be ideal for you.
Verdict
Europe, as a continent, has the best places to have your vacation. The countries have various museums, parks, beaches and cities that will make your holidays worthwhile. The magical places will give you an excellent environment to unwind and bond with your family. If you decide to take a break from work and run away from the hustles of the city. Then a holiday in one of the places in Europe will do the trick. Let me know how many of these places will be on your bucket list.
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