Friday, September 3, 2010

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe
What do you know about?

One moment, let me estimate. Even since you were a teenager you’ve always dreamed to go there. What vacation destinations in Europe are you just expiring to go visit? I wish I had a dollar for every time I heard some teenage girl talk about how they wanted to head off to Paris, France. What is it about Paris anyway? Is it truly the city of love or is that a simple pitch to young girls? No matter, when it comes traveling to Europe, every people looking to be up for that great vacation. Well, what about Italy? Does not an Italy trip seem ideal for you and your family? Come on, you may be able to see Rome and all its ancient ruins. You could easily head over to Venice. We all desired that romantic boat ride through the city. Those things stand for an unforgettable vacation. I can still recall when my best friend headed over to Europe. This is why I want present you Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe

There are so many things to consider when planning your vacation to Europe, but one important thing you shouldn’t forget is to have the right travel maps and travel guides. Check out now the World Largest Online Map Store where you’ll get now 5% OFF all orders!

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #1 Paris

Visit top vacation destinations in EuropeSo you’ve finally considered to spend a few weeks in an exotic location. Europe is a great option for your vacation, and planning holidays in France and exploring Paris can end up being the best option.

Visit tour operators and airline websites to get the best travel rates possible. As with any destination, there are peak times to travel to different locations, and be sure that your vacations in France don’t end up costing you a fortune because you pick the wrong week to fly. Compare prices from airline to airline, and ask travel agencies to search for the best rates for vacations in France.

When going on vacation in France, you’ll find that a good chunk of the most important attractions and architectural structures there are in Paris the capital of France.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #2 Rome

Visit Top Vacation Destinations in Europe

The capital of Italy remains unmatched when it comes to the sheer aesthetic domination of its antique structures and its impressive history. So it doesn’t come as a surprise that Rome claimed the #2 spot on the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2004 Reader’s Choice Awards Top 10 European Cities.

Today, Rome has a population of about 2.7 million citizens. Climate is hot and dry in the summer while mild to rainy in winter. Except for a specific list of European countries, every traveler need a passport to visit Italy. However, you do not need a Visa if you’re only staying for 90 days or less. The best time to see Rome is in the off-peak months between October and March so you won’t lose your wits in the summertime mob. In choosing accommodations, try to book a hotel near, or better within the historic district or Centro Storico. One of the best situated places is the Hotel de Russie located between the Spanish Steps and the Piazza del Popolo. Before heading out to the major attractions these will apparently be the first places you should visit.

No matter what your tourist dispositions may be, there are some places that certainly shouldn’t be missed when sightseeing in Rome. As always, the hotel concierge is the best reference for tourist information and specials so get to know yours well.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #3 Amsterdam

The best thing about vacationing in Amsterdam is that it’s highly affordable if you’re traveling on a budget. You can stay in hostels or budget-friendly hotels, but make sure you’re able to find space during prime seasons like summer and Christmas.

As a newcomer to the city, watch out for bicycle traffic if you’re a pedestrian. Visitors have to be careful when maneuvering the roadways. If you’re driving in a car, you’ll want to keep an eye out for cyclists who ignore traffic laws.

You may to take advantage of public transportation while visiting Amsterdam by getting a public transport ticket called a strippenkaart. They have a tram system that is very convenient for travelers, as long as you watch for pickpockets who prey on unsuspecting tourists.

When you start heading out for some shopping excursions, make sure you understand the laws about drugs and alcohol. In many shops, drugs are sold in small quantities as long as they’re not openly advertised or sold to kids under the age of 18, although by the age of 16, a person is allowed to drink beer and wine in Amsterdam.

While you’re in Amsterdam, try to see some of the wonderful destination spots locals and tourists alike love, such as the Stedelijk Museum, which houses works of art by Picasso and Monet to name a few.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #4 London

London, the British capital resides a lot of powerful world leaders and has important influence in the world. For those who would like to go on a trip to see London, you will get a lot of things to see and experience in that metropolis.

Residents and citizens of the United States of America, Canada and several other countries do not require visas to get into London. Americans and Canadians who consider to travel to London are able to stay in the UK for up to six months though, whenever you want to stay more long-lasting or have workplace in London, you must have to get right authorization. You can find many airfares to London from the United States and other important countries from all over the globe. Some European countries are linked to via railroads and roads.

The London Eye is among the newest points of interest of the capital of the United Kingdom. To complete your London trip, try out a ride in this gigantic Ferris wheel and get a panoramic view of Greater London. Some of the most popular places in London are the palaces of the royal family. You are able to actually go in a few of the palaces however there are private areas as well where visitors are not permitted. These wonderful palaces could be the highlights of your vacation to capital of the United Kingdom.

During your stay in London, you will be most pleased to recognize that the London subway is one of the most commodious ways of transportation in the country. This underground spans a lot of miles of the city and supplies to nearly all areas. Autobuses are even in place for those who want to go for the places of interest and go through a double deck bus in London traffic. You are also able to hire a car if you would like to drive around City of London on your vacation. Traffic isn’t bad in the capital of the United Kingdom however you have to get a hold of a map to assist you find your route around the city streets.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #5 Barcelona

Spain is one of the top holiday destinations in Europe and there are many amazing places to spend your holiday in. Among these places is Barcelona, the second largest city of Spain and the capital of Catalonia. Barcelona is probably the busiest place in the country. For many, nowadays Barcelona is the cultural capital of Spain which can fill your Spain holiday with beautiful memories and exciting pictures. Your holiday in Spain is never complete if you do not visit Barcelona.

In these days Barcelona is home to one and half million people. Every year millions of visitors come to that place. However, amongst the hectic pace of day by day life is Barcelona, there are a lot of places of interest to visit and many activities to do. It may be always a good idea to start your visit by walking down the La Rambla, perhaps the most famous area of Barcelona, a street where people walk around in and experience the culture of the city. Try visiting the Sagrada Familia and then ending up to the Barcelona Cathedral.

Because the heat is occasionally very oppressive, you can take breaks in one of the many cafes which you can find at the streets along these areas. Las Ramblas is renowned for its cafes, artists and nice shops that cater to many visitors and locals. You can find also a famous fountain in Las Ramblas where legend has it that those who drink from it are certain to come back to Barcelona.

The cuisine in Barcelona is really excellent and definitely one of a kind. Include a visit to the more famous restaurant and tapas bars during your stay in Barcelona to make sure you savor some of the wines and local delicacies as you go along.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #6 – Magnificent Florence

Just like the lovely and serene city of Venice, Florence is also found in Italy. This is the capital city of Tuscany, large Italian region. Anyone who wants to see architectural magic or wonder should see Florence. This is home to the many minds that set intellectual fire in history like Niccolo Machiavelli. Any person who is looking for aesthetic value and intellectualism on political power will definitely not regret a visit here.

Its main landmark is the Historic Centre of Florence. This is a cultural heritage that was declared in 1982 as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Churches and buildings are the main attractions in Florence as this was due to its architectural flourish during the Renaissance. The domed cathedral city is one of the most magnificent domes in the world. It is also the largest dome in the world made of brick and mortar. It is 600 years old and it shelters the Santa Maria del Fiore. This cathedral is called the Duomo precisely because of its dome.

The Old Bridge, called Ponte Vecchio, is a unique architectural wonder. This bridge is known for its stores standing on stilts and this is also popular because it is the only building that has survived World War II.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #7 – The City of Athens

If you are a fan or a believer of Greek mythology, Athens is the place you should visit. This is by far the largest city in Greece which also happens to be its capital. Very rich in historical events, it was named after a Greek goddess called Athena and it boasts of 3,000 years of historical data.

The climate is quite rainy because Greece is in the Mediterranean part of Europe. However, it is considered much drier than its counterparts or neighboring countries. There may be thunderstorms but the temperature is lower most of the times. The air is clear and smog is not something that one should look forward to when in Athens.

You should not miss the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This is a stone theatre found in the Acropolis of Athens that can accommodate 5,000 people. This was built in 161 AD by Herodes Atticus. And this is where the Athens Festival occurs every year.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #8 – Berlin

Separated between East and West Germany before, Berlin has made a comeback when the famous Berlin wall was destroyed in 1990. Just about 70 kilometers away from Poland, Berlin is the capital city of Germany and it is one of the most sought after tourist spots of the world due to its rich political and cultural heritage. Berlin played a major role in European politics and culture.

Of course, part of the general culture here is soccer and it is always expected that the people will line up at streets to watch their national team battle against European competitors. Beer is normal during these highlights of soccer season.

The city is rich in universities and institutes that support research and sports. Of course, beer in Germany is by far the best ever tasted by the human tongue. The lifestyle in Berlin is very urban and liberated. The cost of living is also very low and affordable.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #9 – Venice

Venice, as everyone knows, is one of the loveliest places in the world. It is a city that is found in the northern part of Italy, home of pasta and pizza. Considered as one of the most beautiful places and cities in the world, Venice is also known by different names such as city of Water and City of Bridges.

This is because Venice is almost practically submerged in water. People take gondolas to travel to and fro. What tourists love about this is that the gondola driver sings while he manoeuvres the boat. This is very ideal for couples who want a serene time for themselves-away from the busy city life. In fact, one hotel in Las Vegas has emulated the entire concept of Venice. Lovers and couples can enjoy a serene moment where they can reminisce the old times and revive that passion once again.

The reason these buildings do not fall is that because they are made of wood. Wood does not decay underwater because there is no oxygen. Or even if there is, it is not in its pure form.

The place is a rich source of art and museums where one can feel the renaissance. A festival called Venice Art Biennale is one of the major attractions in Venice. It was founded in 1893 by a man called Riccardo Selvatico, a mayor of Venice.

Another attraction here is the famous Piazza San Marcos and its pigeons. Hundreds and even thousands of pigeons flock in this plaza and it is just so exhilarating to look at.

Top 10 Vacation Destinations in Europe #10 – Stockholm

Stockholm is pride of Sweden. Being its capital and its largest city, it is also the top destination of tourists around the world. It is very rich in history and museums where people can take a look of its rich culture. Although the city suffered from the Black Plague or Black Death in the 1700s, it has remained strong as the political capital of the country. It has crawled its way to economic strength in the early 19th century and developed its technology as we see now. It is a very diverse city in terms of ethnicity and industry.

Stockholm has a very lovely climate that is humid and extreme. There are times like the winter solstice in which the day only lasts for six hours and at times, daylight may reach 18 hours. Museums are dime-a-dozen in Stockholm. There are about 70 museums here and for the record, these museums receive about 9 million guests year by year.

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