Best place to visit in world

Best Places to Visit in Europe From the England and France to Italy and Germany, European countries are full of vibrant cities known for museums, restaurants, nightlife and architecture, so deciding which one to visit on vacation can be difficult. That’s why U.S. News considered these factors – as well as user votes – to round up the 17 best travel destinations in Europe. Use this list to guide your next trip, and cast your vote to help us compile next year’s list. Best Vacations Methodology MORE Explore More Rankings You may be interested in: Rome Rome Best Affordable Vacations in Europe Europe Rankings More Rankings Gold Badge #1 Rome Gold Badge #1 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Roma is the can't-miss spot on your trip to Europe. The aroma of fresh Italian cooking wafts through alleys and historic sites sit at every turn. The Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica and the awe-inspiring Trevi Fountain are essential places for any traveler to visit in Italy's capital. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Rome Rome View 29 photos Belongs on List? Yes No Gold Badge #2 Porto Gold Badge #2 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: A coastal Portuguese city that has long been a place for wine lovers, this charming destination offers plenty of fun for travelers. Spend the day wandering the Avenida dos Aliados before visiting one of the city's famous bridges, such as the Dom Luís I Bridge. And you must sit down for a glass (or two) of port wine and local seafood. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Porto Porto View 20 photos Belongs on List? Yes No Gold Badge #3 London Gold Badge #3 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Exploring the world-class British Museum, seeing a musical in the West End, touring the Tower of London and gorging on fish and chips at a local pub are all part of the London bucket list experience. However, London's high hotel prices can make budget travelers cringe. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do London in the Sun London in the Sun View 31 photos Belongs on List? Yes No Gold Badge #4 Paris Gold Badge #4 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: A visit to Paris is filled with iconic museums (like the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay), monuments (like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe) and churches (like the Sacré-Cœur and Notre-Dame Cathedral). Still, travelers should save some time for relaxing at sidewalk cafes during the day and enjoying drawn-out meals with amazing wine at night. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Paris at Night Paris at Night View 20 photos Belongs on List? Yes No Gold Badge #5 Florence Gold Badge #5 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why Go: Travel to Firenze for an authentic taste of Italy. Florence boasts renowned museums, quaint hotels, stunning architecture and mouthwatering cuisine. You can't miss admiring Michelangelo's David and climbing to the top of the Duomo. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Il Duomo Il Duomo View 17 photos Belongs on List? Yes No Gold Badge #6 Prague Gold Badge #6 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Step into a fairy tale with a visit to Prague. The gothic architecture impresses visitors of all ages. And the city's love of music is contagious. You'll also appreciate Prague's affordability compared to other captivating destinations in Europe. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do skyline skyline View 14 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #7 Venice #7 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Venice may conjure images of romantic gondola rides down the Grand Canal, but this city in Europe isn't only for swooning lovebirds. With an abundance of theaters, churches, historic sites and notable eateries, this destination on Italy's northeastern coast will enchant all types of travelers. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do The Grand Canal The Grand Canal View 26 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #8 Barcelona #8 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Barcelona's diverse collection of architecture really makes the city stand out. Gaudí's Parc Güell and La Sagrada Familia are impressive, as are La Seu and Montjuïc Castle. When you tire of architecture, relax on the beach, eat the local food (tapas) or sip sangria along Las Ramblas. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do View of Barcelona View of Barcelona View 18 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #9 Amsterdam #9 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: There's more to Amsterdam than its notorious coffee shop culture and the Red Light District. Spend the day biking along the city's canals and stylish streets before exploring noteworthy museums (think the Van Gogh Museum). Friendly locals and affordable hotels keep bringing travelers back, and the city makes for an excellent summer trip. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Herengracht Canal Herengracht Canal View 25 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #10 Amalfi Coast #10 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Travel to this coastal region in Italy for once-in-a-lifetime views of the Mediterranean's turquoise water from beautiful cliffside towns. Spend the day wandering the narrow streets of Positano but make sure to visit the more secluded places, such as the Furore Fiordo beach, too. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Amalfi Coast Amalfi Coast View 20 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #11 Athens #11 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Athens was made for history buffs and architecture aficionados, but it also serves as a great European getaway for the everyday travel guru. The capital's laid-back lifestyle and incredible food attract the masses just as much as the world-class Acropolis and Parthenon do. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Parthenon in Spring Parthenon in Spring View 18 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #12 Vienna #12 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: This storied city is best known for its music and monarchs. Explore the Habsburg's Schönbrunn Palace and stroll the narrow streets of the Innere Stadt. If you're an art lover, head to the MuseumsQuartier to tour the Museum of Modern Art. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Vienna Skyline Vienna Skyline View 20 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #13 Santorini #13 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Visit this Greek island for its abundance of diverse beaches. You'll find red sands at – you guessed it – Red Beach and black sands at Kamari Beach. But don't forget to save a day to travel to archaeological attractions such as Ancient Thira and the Ancient Akrotiri. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Santorini Churches Santorini Churches View 18 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #14 Tuscany #14 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: This renowned culinary region is full of quaint eateries serving up traditional Italian fare. You can savor Tuscany's rich flavors at charming restaurants in Siena and Cinque Terre, or head straight to the source on a winery or olive grove tour. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Under the Tuscan Sun Under the Tuscan Sun View 19 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #15 Madrid #15 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Spain's capital has all the makings of a quintessential vacation spot in Europe: stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, luxury hotels and, of course, plenty of delicious Spanish food. But save some time for alfresco dining with locals, too. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Center of Madrid Center of Madrid View 18 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #16 Seville #16 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: A trip to Seville may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of traveling to Spain, but it should be on your radar. The city does classic Spanish tradition, including flamenco dancing and bullfighting, better than any other place in the country. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Shops Along Cobblestone Streets Shops Along Cobblestone Streets View 20 photos Belongs on List? Yes No #17 Valencia #17 in Best Places to Visit in Europe Why go: Those hoping to dodge the crowds of larger destinations in Europe should travel to Valencia, Spain. What it lacks in worldly attractions, it makes up for with places like the Mercado Central. Plus, you'll find hotel rates are much more affordable compared to other European cities. Read More » Best Hotels Flights Things to Do Valencian Homes Valencian Homes View 17 photos Belongs on List? Yes No Looking for Vacation Deals? European Best Destinations is the official website dedicated to the promotion of Europe’s best destinations. For almost than 10 years European Best Destinations has been offering people from all over the world holiday inspiration as the best city breaks in Europe, the best ski resorts or Christmas Markets, the most romantic destinations, the best beaches and many other inspirational rankings. Each year you are millions to vote for your favourite European destinations and determine the trends of tomorrow’s tourism as well as the best destinations to visit in Europe. Find new inspiration and get ready for your next holiday in Europe by booking your accommodation, flights and activities at the best price guaranteed. There is so much to discover in Europe Log In Lifestyle #Wanderlust May 23, 2017 @ 10:36 AM 44,419 12 Stocks to Buy Now The 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe In 2017 Jordan Bishop , Contributor Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Lonely Planet has released its annual list of the best places to visit in Europe, and the European destinations they selected might surprise you. Rather than simply rhyming off your typical tourist hotspots—the Londons, Barcelonas and Parises of the world—they’ve dug deeper to give some truly unique recommendations. Here’s my take on their top ten, starting with #10 and working up to #1, with additional opinions and suggestions from travel bloggers and influencers to help you maximize your Europe trip. If you want even more options, here’s a route for flying to ten European capitals for just $228 this summer. The sunny coastline of Le Havre. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Le Havre, France Why: Starting off with a summer’s dream, we’re going to Le Havre, a small city in the Normandy region of northern France. As Lonely Planet says, Le Havre, “Will celebrate its 500th anniversary with a five-month-long, art- and music-filled fête,” this summer. There’s plenty to see in this historically-rich commune, with the unique blend of old and new architecture serving as a particular point of interest for Heather Cowper, as she explains in her weekend guide to Le Havre. “What Le Havre lost in its picturesque pre-war town, it has more than made up for in stunning modern architecture like Le Volcan, the Volcano shaped cultural centre by Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer. We walked down the steps from the road to an open piazza below the level of the main town and through the library which was packed with families, teenagers and locals of all ages.” Sitting on the English Channel, Le Havre is close to both Paris and London, making it an easy weekend getaway destination. Average Highs: 70° F July, 46° F January Flights From London: $100+ roundtrip to Caen Paphos' beaches are ready to be discovered in a very big way. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Paphos, Cyprus Why: Paphos, and Cyprus as a whole, flies well under the radar when it comes to European destinations, though I'm baffled as to why. Perhaps it’s because Greece, Malta and Italy are so much closer to Western Europe, or perhaps the tumult of the nations surrounding Cyprus has given it a bad reputation. Whatever the cause, Paphos’ recognition as the European Capital of Culture for 2017 means it will be buzzing even more than usual, with hundreds of events aimed at exploring, sharing and connecting different cultures of the local region and beyond. As The Telegraph explains, “Cyprus is a land for romantics, dotted with castles, churches, monasteries, mosaics, white-sand beaches and the bluest of seas. Early suitors include Marc Antony, who thought the island so fragrant he gave it to Cleopatra, and Richard the Lionheart, who briefly put down his crossbow to marry there.” Beware of when you go, though, as Cyprus can get devastatingly hot: “You can bet neither of these alpha males had the energy for anything in August, when the heat is so paralysing you could be on Mars.” With that said, 300 days of sunshine per year and January temperatures in the mid-sixties makes a pretty strong case for a winter vacation in Cyprus. Average Highs: 86° F July, 63° F January Flights From London: $120+ roundtrip The landscapes of rural Moldova never cease to amaze. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Moldova Why: Moldova is another seldom-visited European nation, probably because few know what it has to offer. A landscape of low, rolling hills and a secretive cave monasteries are just a few of the gems you’ll discover here. Moldova’s capital city, Chişinău, is wonderfully slow, but the countryside is where you’ll feel most at peace. Take a trip to Orhei, an hour’s drive north of Chişinău, for a hike through fields and forests and a glimpse at the sacred Orheiul Vechi. Vino lover's rejoice: wine is one of Moldova's primary exports, so there’s no surprise that the country will play host to the 2017’s Black Sea Wines and Spirits Competition, plus its annual ExpoVin. Average Highs: 77° F July, 32° F January in Chişinău Flights From London: $170+ roundtrip to Chişinău Hamburg's Speicherstadt is one of those places you truly have to see to believe. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Northern Germany Why: Oktoberfest in Munich is one-of-a-kind. The castles of Bavaria look like they’re straight from a fairy tale. Berlin can be downright weird. With all this going on in Germany, far less attention is paid to the country’s north, where the likes of Hamburg and Bremen reside. Don’t let that fool you, though; there’s a lot going on up north, as well. Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, one of the most acoustically-advanced concert halls in the world, opened this January to the locals’ delight. With or without the new facility, Hamburg is a charming city that has captured the hearts of many. Mitzie Mee chose to explore a different side of the city in her look at Speicherstadt, the largest warehouse area in the world and a recently-named UNESCO World Heritage Site. “It was such a beautiful place to walk around in during daytime, so one evening I decided to walk from the Rathaus Station and back to the hotel through Speicherstadt, as I wanted to see what the area was like after dark. It was very dark and it was very quiet. Even though I never felt unsafe in the sense that I was afraid to get assaulted or robbed, the place still managed to scare the guts out of me. The spookiness all came from the dim lighting and the completely deserted streets. I wouldn’t have been surprised to see Dracula, a zombie army or Ozzy Osbourne around the next corner.” Average Highs: 71° F July, 37° F January Flights From London: $50+ roundtrip to Hamburg The medieval town of Évora is a must-see in The Alentejo. Photo: Shutterstock Where: The Alentejo, Portugal Why: Portugal has been receiving a lot of attention lately as one of Europe's more affordable places to live, but there’s plenty happening for short-term visitors, as well. Évora, the medieval walled town ninety miles east of Lisbon, is one spot you definitely won't want to miss. Sophie Saint sums up The Alentejo nicely: “The Alentejo Coast is a world away from the Algarve. We’re talking expansive sandy beaches, awesome surf, craggy intimidating cliffs and dusty red soils reminiscent to a Western Australian landscape. The area of Alentejo blankets a third of Portugal and is wild and beautiful, with actual tumbleweed that echoes the population: sparse and empty.” Rugged coastline, sleepy hillsides and an opportunity to get away from it all. What more could you ask for? Average Highs: 91° F July, 61° F January in Algarve Flights From London: $50+ roundtrip to Faro The architecture in Leeds is sure to catch your eye. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Leeds, UK Why: The first of just two larger cities in Europe on this list, Leeds can still fall by the wayside amongst the UK’s many desirable destinations. Those who know it well, though, know exactly why it’s been included as number five on this list. Anna Addison describes the city like this: “Plush hotels, a plethora of fashionable bars, award-winning restaurants and designer boutiques. No, it’s not Milan or Paris but somewhere much closer to home. Just two hours from London by train and one of the UK’s busiest financial, creative and legal hubs, Leeds is an emphatic mix of old, new and up-and-coming.” Catering to both the foodies and the bookworms, the early risers and the completely sleepless, Leeds is breathing new life into northern England. Average Highs: 64° F July, 41° F January Flights From London: $120+ roundtrip Montenegro is nothing short of a Balkan paradise. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Montenegro Why: “As Croatia’s lesser-known neighbour, Montenegro shares a lot of the same architecture, scenery and climate. But where Croatia’s popularity has rocketed – bringing crowds and high prices along with it in some areas – Montenegro is still relatively unknown. It’s got its own patch of the Adriatic coastline, historic walled towns, beautiful lakes and mountains. Back in the 1970s it was the place for celebs and royalty to visit. But the Balkans conflict put an end to that, and since then the turbulent history and a lack of tourist infrastructure have helped keep it under the radar until now.” That’s how Lucy of On the Luce describes Montenegro, and she’s spot-on. The tiny nation’s blend of sandy beaches, gregarious mountains and historic towns perfectly epitomizes everything you’d hope for from a Balkan state. Average Highs: 90° F July, 48° F January Flights From London: $190+ roundtrip to Podgorica Blue water, white sand? Check and check. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Galicia, Spain Why: If you’re familiar with the Camino de Santiago—the renowned pilgrimage dating back to the 9th century—then you’re at least loosely familiar with Galicia, whose shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great is the pilgrimage's destination. There’s a lot more to do in and around Galicia, though, with the Cíes Islands being the perfect getaway for anyone who feels Galicia itself isn’t remote enough. “The Cíes are basically paradise, with the bluest water and the whitest sand I’ve ever seen,” says Alisa on Young Adventuress. “They’re also a natural preserve, so they remain mostly free of human influence. Cathedral Beach is a neat beach up in the north of Galicia where, when the tide goes out, the rocks on the beach appear like the spires of cathedrals sticking up in the air. Very cool stuff.” Average Highs: 73° F July, 50° F January Flights From London: $50+ roundtrip If you're feeling adventurous, jump over to Stora Karlsö, a neighboring island to Gotland, for even more nice views. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Gotland, Sweden Why: As the largest island in the Baltic Sea, it’s almost surprising that Gotland receives so little attention. As we’ve seen, though, that seems to be the theme of this year’s roundup; Lonely Planet has looked far and wide to find the diamonds in the rough, and Gotland is certainly an excellent one. Tranquil space is easy to find here, whether it comes in the form of peaceful fishing villages or flowing, affable pastures. When The New York Times reported on Gotland back in 2010, this is what they had to say: “Indeed, when driving through the vast openness of Gotland, the ribbon of road unfurls across a flat green landscape. There are no billboards, no guardrails, just country churches and grazing herds of indigenous gray, curly-haired sheep. Occasionally, a squat, decommissioned windmill appears in a meadow, or a sleek, modern wind turbine twirls slowly on the horizon. But everywhere, Gotland’s haunting beauty follows.” If you’re looking for an undiscovered piece of rural Scandinavia, Gotland might just be your place. Average Highs: 70° F July, 36° F January Flights From London: $210+ roundtrip Zagreb is the number place to visit in Europe in 2017. Photo: Shutterstock Where: Zagreb, Croatia Why: “When it comes to European capitals, Zagreb has got to be one of the most overlooked destinations in the region,” say Oksana and Max of Drink Tea Travel. “It’s a place where you can still experience Central Europe without the crowds, and for significantly less than in places like Prague, Budapest, or Vienna.” They’re completely right, and Lonely Planet agrees—that’s why Zagreb has been rated the best place to visit in Europe in 2017. "Zagreb is at once cosmopolitan and edgy, with its heady mix of Brutalist architecture and sun-splashed Austro-Hungarian squares brimming with coffee drinkers," Lonely Planet writes. Don't miss the Martićeva area, where you'll find plenty of cafes (try Booksa), restaurants (go for Divas) and the Kvatrić farmers’ market, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Average Highs: 81° F July, 37° F January Flights From London: $130+ roundtrip Those are the best places to visit in Europe in 2017, as rated by Lonely Planet. With a few notable exceptions, most of them are well off-the-beaten-path, perfect for discovering something new on your next Europe vacation. If you’d prefer to stick to more recognizable locales, take a look at this flight itinerary for visiting ten European capitals for just $228. Subscribe: ForbesLife's Passport Newsletter Your guide to luxury travel—and life's other indulgences. Jordan Bishop is the founder of Yore Oyster and How I Travel, and helps companies tell their unique narratives at the transportative storytelling agency STORIED. Join his monthly newsletter. Comment on this story Print Website Feedback News Tip Report Corrections Reprints & Permissions Ads by Revcontent From the Web That's How You Find Super Cheap Flights! Save70.com The Ultimate Way to Get Cheap Hotel Rooms Save70.com The Diabetes Breakthrough Your Doctor Won't Tell You About Diabetes Destroyer Este Cel Mai Eficient Mod De a Scăpa De Ciupercă în 21 De Zile! Clic! Eva Do This Before Going to Bed and Never Need to Diet Ecoslim Diabetes Breakthrough That Will Bankrupt Insulin Companies Diabetes Destroyer The Top 15 Cities in Europe Prague, Czech Republic Getty Images Our readers anointed some of the Continent’s greatest cultural capitals — places rich in art, history, architecture, and food — as their favorite places to visit. Jesse Ashlock July 11, 2017 It’s no secret that readers adore cities in Italy and Spain, which have historically been well represented on this list, and remain so this year. But there’s a new country contending for European metropolitan greatness: Portugal. With both Lisbon and Porto ranked, it is the only other European nation with multiple winners. That’s a reflection of a surge in traveler interest in Portugal, highlighted by T+L’s selection of the country as its 2016 Destination of the Year. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value. Florence once again took top honors, as it has done in 10 out of the past 11 years. The city is by no means resting on its laurels, however, making the news multiple times throughout the year with moves to preserve identity while also embracing the future. These include new restrictions on fast-food restaurants and other retailers in the city’s historical center, efforts to fight congestion, and a plan to modernize the Uffizi. The top-ranked city from a country other than Italy or Spain was Budapest. Many readers suggested taking twilight cruises along the Danube to fully absorb the enchanting after-dark lighting of Parliament, the bridges, and the Buda hills. “The night lights of the city and bridges were breathtaking!” one wrote. “If you weren’t in love, you could fall in love very easily!” With new luxury accommodations like the Aria Hotel and the Ritz-Carlton, the city offers more and more places to stay in style. Hearteningly, despite all the adversity that Istanbul has faced, readers still see it as one of the best places in Europe to visit. The climate in Turkey might be uncertain, but a thriving young art scene, wonderful hotels, from the Four Seasons to Soho House, and a dramatic waterfront plan in the works, this jewel of the Bosporus should remain so for years to come. Madrid, Spain 1 of 15 Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images 15. Madrid, Spain Score: 87.30 Iastanbul, Turkey 2 of 15 Getty Images 14. Istanbul, Turkey Score: 87.40 Advertisement Edinburgh, Scotland 3 of 15 Getty Images 13. Edinburgh, Scotland Score: 87.43 Venice, Italy 4 of 15 Simon Watson 12. Venice, Italy Score: 87.66 Prague, Czech Republic 5 of 15 Getty Images 11. Prague, Czech Republic Score: 87.89 Lisbon, Portugal 6 of 15 Alvaro Leiva 10. Lisbon, Portugal Score: 88.02 Advertisement Porto, Portugal 7 of 15 Alvaro Leiva 9. Porto, Portugal Score: 88.51 Krakow, Poland 8 of 15 Getty Images 8. Kraków, Poland Score: 88.61 Advertisement Seville, Spain 9 of 15 Christopher Testani 7. Seville, Spain Score: 88.91 Siena, Italy 10 of 15 Getty Images/iStockphoto 6. Siena, Italy Score: 88.97 Advertisement Budapest, Hungary 11 of 15 Simon Watson 5. Budapest, Hungary Score: 89.19 San Sebastian, Spain 12 of 15 Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images 4. San Sebastián, Spain Score: 89.52 Advertisement Barcelona, Spain 13 of 15 Gunnar Knechtel 3. Barcelona, Spain Score: 89.52 Rome, Italy 14 of 15 Getty Images 2. Rome, Italy Score: 89.73 Advertisement Florence, Italy 15 of 15 Getty Images 1. Florence, Italy Score: 90.75 20 of Europe’s Best Cities for Fall Travel By K.C. Dermody 612.4K+ SPONSORED Traveling to Europe in the fall often means fewer crowds, shorter lines, idyllic weather and better deals – along with spectacular displays of autumn foliage. Many feel that it’s really the very best time of year to go. If you’re thinking about heading to Europe, these cities are some of the best to explore in autumn. Credit: Burp Hammie Perthshire, Scotland Perthshire, Scotland (Hotel Prices & Photos) Perthshire, often referred to as Big Trees Country, is one of the most glorious places in all of Europe for autumn colors in a country well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Here, lochs and rivers reflect the array of gold and copper of tree covered hillsides, making it ideal for exploring and impressive photo taking. You’ll find some of the most stunning spots near Loch Tummel, the Pass of Killiecrankie and Knock Hill. Take the steep but moderate walk to Knock Hill through mixed woodlands and scenic, heathery viewpoints, including jaw-dropping views from the summit of the Highlands to the north. It’s the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. What more does a traveler need? Of course you’ll want to go see classic sights like the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia. But there’s a modern Florence, too, full of enticing surprises — from the Mercato Centrale, a covered market showcasing Tuscany’s rich culinary bounty, to the sly street art of Clet Abraham, which has begun inspiring visitors to embark upon urban scavenger hunts through the ancient city. As one reader summed up quite brilliantly: “This is a city I can return to again and again, and still find new and interesting sites and activities.” Sponsored Stories This game will keep you up all night! 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NOTE TO USER: User expressly ac Travel Tips Why an NBA Star Traded His First Class Seat for the Last Row of Economy 1. Zagreb, Croatia Travellers to Croatia tend to make a beeline for the Adriatic delights of the country’s extensive coastline, but its flourishing inland capital shouldn’t be overlooked. Zagreb is at once cosmopolitan and edgy, with its heady mix of Brutalist architecture and sun-splashed Austro-Hungarian squares brimming with coffee drinkers. Urban regeneration is making the city over. Street art, particularly the striking works of local artist Lonac, adorn Zagreb’s outdoor canvasses and new galleries and creative spaces, including a recently reopened WWII bomb shelter under the Upper Town, are opening at an ambitious pace. To top it all off, the city is home to a blossoming food and craft beer scene, and with the opening of Zagreb’s long-awaited airport terminal, along with a host of new flight routes, it’s never been easier or cheaper to reach the Croatian capital. SHARE Dive into the heart of this captivating city See more video Guides by Lonely Planet is an app that helps travellers get to the heart of a destination with offline maps, essential information and must-see sights curated by on-the-ground experts. Learn More 2. Gotland, Sweden Gotland is a special yet somewhat unexpected part of Sweden, boasting the most sunshine and highest density of historical sites in the country and more restaurants per capita in Unesco-listed Visby than any other Swedish city. This ancient Baltic island also has breathtaking scenery, with pastoral countryside, mysterious forests, time-warped fishing villages and tranquil sandy beaches – except in the height of summer, when Swedes flock here from the mainland and the island takes on an exuberant air, accentuated this year by the week-long 2017 Biennial Island Games in June. Most visitors content themselves with marginally less exertion when it comes to activities, however: the island is simply wonderful for exploring by bicycle with virtually traffic-free roads and unspoiled landscapes. SHARE Travel back in time in historic Visby The medieval city of Visby is a window into Gotland's fascinating past © Niar / Shutterstock The medieval city of Visby is a window into Gotland's fascinating past © Niar / Shutterstock 3. Galicia, Spain Hundreds of thousands of people stride across Galicia's rolling green countryside every year, bound for Santiago de Compostela on the world-famous Camino de Santiago. But few are aware that this northwestern corner of Spain is a unique scenic-gastronomic-cultural cocktail that is a dream to explore beyond the Camino. Almost a country unto itself, Galicia has its own language and history, its own (bagpipe-focused) music, a superb heritage of centuries-old stone architecture and wonderfully welcoming people. Over 1000km of coast snakes around long inlets, plunging cliffs, pretty fishing villages and hundreds of beaches. It yields some of the tastiest seafood you'll ever savour, to which characterful Galician wines provide the perfect accompaniment. And 2017 is a special year to enjoy Galician wine and food, with Cambados celebrating the year as European City of Wine. SHARE Uncover a unique corner of Spain Cathedral Beach is one of many wonders you'll find along Galicia's coast © Migel / Shutterstock Cathedral Beach is one of many wonders you'll find along Galicia's coast © Migel / Shutterstock 4. Northern Montenegro If the cruise ships queueing by Kotor’s bay are anything to go by, the cat is definitely out of the bag for Montenegro’s stunning Adriatic coastline. Fortunately, overlooked Northern Montenegro is brimming with off-the-beaten-track adventures – without the crowds. What’s more, the country’s compact size and good roads make this remote region more ripe for exploration than you might have thought. Adventure hunters can raft through Europe’s deepest canyon at Tara, or cycle through lunar landscapes around the Durmitor ring. Foodies are catered for in highland towns where you can savour Montenegro’s growing slow food scene with mountain cheeses and hearty beef stews; while history buffs can take a pilgrimage to stunning monasteries etched into cliff faces at Ostrog or nestled in breathtaking valleys at Morača. SHARE Adventure in Montenegro’s unsung north Epic experiences are writ large in Northern Montenegro's rugged landscapes © dellaliner / Getty Images Epic experiences are writ large in Northern Montenegro's rugged landscapes © dellaliner / Getty Images Travel guides Starting at £13.99 Image for Image for Ready to go? Get to the heart of Europe with one of Lonely Planet’s in-depth, award-winning guidebooks. Shop now 5. Leeds, UK Manchester’s northern cousin has spent the past decade pulling its studenty socks up, reimagining Leeds as a pilgrimage city for craft beer lovers, a budding arts hub and an edgy destination for night owls. Recent developments have propelled its Victorian city centre and atmospheric mill district into the 21st century, luring stylish boutiques, innovative coffee houses and restaurants, and people seeking an alternative to London. Time your visit with the stellar two-week-long indie food festival in May – testament to Leeds’ growing reputation as the food and drink capital of the north. This year also marks two major events: the reopening of the city’s premier art gallery, and the 50th anniversary of Leeds Carnival – Europe’s longest-running authentic West Indian knees-up, predating Notting Hill. SHARE Discover what’s new in this northern powerhouse Post-makeover Leeds is 21st-century chic with a quirky edge © Shahid Khan / Shutterstock Post-makeover Leeds is 21st-century chic with a quirky edge © Shahid Khan / Shutterstock 6. The Alentejo, Portugal Looming clifftop castles, rugged coastlines and a treasure chest of culinary wonders: Portugal’s Alentejo has magnetic allure. This vast region is also home to Unesco World Heritage sites, prehistoric megaliths and many hidden wonders (a soaring Roman temple, an eerie chapel made of bones). Yet despite its easy access from Lisbon, the Alentejo has remained largely off the tourist radar until recently. All that has changed with the completion of a multi-day coastal walk (the Rota Vicentina) and a spate of creative eateries and imaginative guesthouses (including Train Spot, set inside a beautifully converted railroad station). New investments in tourism haven’t taken away from the Alentejo’s timeless beauty, its rolling vineyards, medieval village centres or rich traditional cuisine, which ranks among the best in Portugal. SHARE Feast on the Alentejo’s foodie offerings The sun sets over Marvao's clifftop castle in Portugal's Alentejo region © ARoxoPT / Shutterstock The sun sets over Marvao's clifftop castle in Portugal's Alentejo region © ARoxoPT / Shutterstock See more of the world with our monthly magazine Each issue is filled with unique adventures, authentic storytelling and beautiful photography from across the globe. Order now and receive a year of Lonely Planet’s award-winning magazine for 25% off the newsstand price.* Learn More *UK addresses only. For more offers click here. 7. Northern Germany Travellers to Germany tend to be tempted by edgy Berlin or quaint Bavaria, but those keen on exploring a part of the country rarely experienced by international visitors should head north. The opening of Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie concert hall may be the big news in 2017, but beyond its architectural and acoustic glow awaits a windswept land tailor-made for those seeking an elemental exposure to nature. This is big-sky country with a pristine coast hemmed in by shimmering beaches and buttressed by pint-sized islands. In between lie charismatic cities like Lübeck and Bremen that flaunt a medieval pedigree and are only a train ride away from such places as Lutherstadt Wittenberg and Eisenach, both of which played key roles in the Reformation launched 500 years ago this year. SHARE Explore Germany’s beautiful and bracing north With a stunning coastline and seemingly endless skies, Northern Germany is a must for your bucket list © Jenny Sturm / Shutterstock With a stunning coastline and seemingly endless skies, Northern Germany is a must for your bucket list © Jenny Sturm / Shutterstock 8. Moldova This country of secret wine cellars and cliff-perched monasteries is truly Europe’s final frontier: little visited, lost in time and always surprising. In Moldova’s capital city Chişinău, leafy boulevards interlace with looming concrete. Its unexpectedly Parisian-style cafe and bar scenes brim with local wine, which continues to rise to acclaim as Moldova plays host to 2017’s Black Sea Wines and Spirits Competition as well as the annual ExpoVin. Sip the best drops in Mileștii Mici’s gothic-attired cellars, housing the world’s largest wine collection. Explore sacred Orheiul Vechi, encircled by chalk cliffs, or lonely riverside monasteries like Saharna and Tipova. East of the Dniestr River is the self-declared (though unrecognised) republic of Transdniestr, a region locked in the Soviet past. Even experienced travellers to Europe will be amazed and disoriented by Moldova. SHARE Shake off modern life in Moldova’s countryside Orheiul Vechi's dramatic, rocky perch seems befitting of such a magical site © Uladzik Kryhin / Shutterstock Orheiul Vechi's dramatic, rocky perch seems befitting of such a magical site © Uladzik Kryhin / Shutterstock 9. Pafos, Cyprus The first capital of Cyprus in Roman times, Pafos once again finds itself with that title: the European Capital of Culture for 2017. The award brings with it world attention, significant cultural investment and the opportunity to showcase Paphiot culture. And there’s much to admire. The island of Aphrodite has weathered so many occupations that history has piled monument upon monument on its sun-kissed shores: catacombs, temples, castles, medieval baths, Roman-era mosaics, and the Unesco World Heritage sites of Kato Pafos and the Tombs of the Kings all bring to life a fascinating bygone era. Inspired by this history, Pafos will transform itself both socially and spatially into an Open Air Factory of 300 accessible events aimed at building bridges between cultures. What could be better for a travel destination in 2017? SHARE Get your fill of history, culture and sunny skies Pafos is home to myriad cultural gems and archaeological wonders © Sergey_Bogomyako / Shutterstock Pafos is home to myriad cultural gems and archaeological wonders © Sergey_Bogomyako / Shutterstock 10. Le Havre, France One of the best places to be this summer is the Norman city of Le Havre, which will celebrate its 500th anniversary with a five-month-long, art- and music-filled fête. The harbour town will host concerts, outdoor art installations, avant-garde street parades, costumed dance parties and spectacular fireworks. Highlights include performances by the mechanized giants of Royal de Luxe and a floating Zen temple complete with underwater observation deck. Despite Le Havre’s years, the city is a showcase of eye-catching modern architecture – including designs by the likes of Auguste Perret, Othello Zavaroni and Oscar Niemeyer – having been completely rebuilt after WWII. Le Havre is also a great base for exploring other parts of Normandy, from the famed D-Day beaches to the picturesque cliffs of Étretat. SHARE Unveil a dynamic city reborn This designer city is ready to celebrate in 2017 © Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock This designer city is ready to celebrate in 2017 © Henryk Sadura / Shutterstock See our previous best in Europe top picks Bag yourself a free Zagreb ebook GET FREE GUIDE Discover more of Europe CLICK FOR MORE Newsletter sign up Subscribe now and receive a 20% discount on your next guidebook purchase. Email address Country Tick to opt-in. Opt out at any time via the 'unsubscribe' link in the footer of the emails. Destinations Africa Antarctica Asia Caribbean Islands Central America Europe Middle East North America Pacific South America Shop Destination guides eBooks Pictorial & gifts Phrasebooks Activity guides Special offers Forum Country forums Talk to Lonely Planet Interest forums Travel buddies & for sale Interests Adventure travel Art and culture Backpacking Beaches, coasts and islands Family holidays Festivals Food and drink Honeymoon and romance Road trips Travel gear and tech Travel on a budget Wildlife and nature So you're thinking of planning a European vacation for the off season. November strikes your fancy. You are dazzled by the prospect that your vacation will be cheaper. You are worried about the weather, but are prepared for a lack of heat. See also: Europe's Top Cities: From the Cheapest to the Most Expensive Which are the Best Youth Destinations in Europe? Plan Your Itinerary by Rail with this Interactive Map Best Places to Visit Around Europe in November Find out what to do in various countries around Europe. Spain in November This is jazz festival season, with events happening in Barcelona, Madrid and Granada. There's also the "Arrastre de los Cacharros" or "dragging of the pots and pans" in Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife. Where to Go in Spain in November Compare Prices on the Best Hotel Deals in Spain on TripAdvisor What Happens in France in November? Armistice is an important event in France with memorials at the sites of famous World War I battles. Also, the new Beaujolais wine is opened and tasted around the country on the third Thursday of the month. November Events in France Check Rates on the Best Hotel Deals in Paris Opera and Jazz in Italy There's a jazz festival in Rome, as well as a truffle festival in Piedmont. The Italian Opera season kicks off in November too. Top November Festivals in Italy Find a Good Deal on Hotel Deals in Italy on TripAdvisor Guy Fawkes' Night in the United Kingdom See bonfires and fireworks to celebrate Guy Fawkes' Night around the country, a commemoration of a failed attack on the Houses of Parliament. The Best Hotel Deals in London on TripAdvisor Germany Check out the DOM open air funfair in Hamburg, the electronic music festival Berlin Music Days or the Berlin Jazz Festival. Events in Germany in November Check Rates on Best Hotel Deals in Berlin on TripAdvisor Czech Republic The Czechs celebrate their Velvet Revolution in November. November Events in Prague See the Best Hotel Deals in Italy on TripAdvisor How to See the Northern Lights The Northern Lights, more formally known as the Aurora Borealis, is a natural light phenomenon caused by the effect of the sun's magnetic activity on electron particles. It is one of the most beautiful sights on the planet and only possible close or in the Arctic Circle in the winter months. The big enemy to viewing the northern lights is cloud cover, so check that your tour guide will allow you to repeat your trip for free the next day if cloud cover thwarts your chances of seeing them (most tours will do this). Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik, Iceland Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø, Norway Northern Lights Tour from Rovaniemi, Finland All Saints' Day in Europe All Saints Day is celebrated November 1st, and you might want to see a performance of Don Juan Tenorio on All Saints' Day in Spain. In Germany it's a little different; the first two days of November are Allerheiligen (Nov. 1) and Allerseelen (Nov. 2). Related to Halloween, these two holy days are devoted to all of the saints (known and unknown) and to all of the “faithful departed,” respectively. November is also the start of "Chestnuts roasting on an open fire" season. In Scandinavia you can celebrate the night before St. Martin's day. Fruit, candy and nuts are typical Sint-Maarten treat in the Netherlands. Winter Sun Destinations in Europe If you are bothered by cold weather, but are limited to traveling in November, there are some fine places in the south to visit. The Greek island of Crete, for example, has daily highs averaging 68 degrees F and lows of 56 in November (source: Crete Travel Weather). Southern Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, And Greece can all be fine in November. My first trip to Europe spanned November. I enjoyed myself immensely. (Just start in the north, then head south--just like the birds.) Why Else Visit Europe in November? It's cheaper. We've already mentioned that, but let's break it down to determine how much cheaper. You might get cheaper airfares, certainly you'll get cheaper fares than you'll find in the very high season. Hotels might cost less, but smaller (budget) hotels and B&Bs might charge extra for you to use the heat. Transportation, food, entrance tickets will all cost the same as they do in August. Your rental or lease car might cost the same, but you might have to pay extra for snow tires or chains--a requirement in some countries. Rail Passes will cost the same, but there may be money-saving specials and promotions to certain destinations available at the train station ticket window or through the web. There will be fewer tourists. True. And there is likely to be fewer services available, especially in less populated destinations. All those college kids they hired as waiters at Chez Louis to speak English to tourists are back to school, so you might have to decide if you like cuisses de grenouille enough to attempt to pronounce the French phrase for frog's legs in front of a native speaker. The (real) cultural activities have begun. Sure, on a steaming August afternoon someone might herd sweating tourists into a historic building in Vienna to listen to a Mozart pop concert given by music students, but as the weather gets cold the venues for professional art performances open up--and that's a real treat in the major cities. Besides, after a performance at the Vienna State Opera Hall you can slide over to a historic cafe for a drink that matters now, because you're chilly and the cafe is a warm and inviting place to hang out in winter--and it's worth lingering amongst the ghosts of literary Vienna for a while. The light. Yes, the slanting light of winter and the brooding skies can make for some fine landscape photography. My best pictures are taken in November light. But of course there's less of it in late fall and winter. Europe is further north than you think; days can get very short by November. On November 1st the sun sets in Paris at 5:31. By the end of the month it's dark after 4:57 pm. Cuisine in Fall in Europe Summer food is different from winter food. Late fall is starting to get cool enough to get a cook thinking about simmering a stew for hours and hours over a hot stove. So while you might enjoy simply grilled meats and raw garden vegetables on the terrace in summer, long-cooked stews and root vegetables are what people are eating by the roaring fireplace as winter looms. If you allow yourself to go with the flow, you won't have any problems with fall and winter menus. I prefer cold-weather food. It allows chefs to shine. And if you like truffles, the winter white truffle is best, and they start showing up in November--most of the truffle fairs and festivals are held then--a very good reason for a November vacation all by itself. Negatives for a November Vacation Short days; wind, rain, and snow. We've discussed these above. It's not hard to buy a heavier coat or a better umbrella anywhere in Europe, so don't worry. You might have to take a cab instead of walking, so there go some of those dollars you've saved on airfare. On the other hand, we've spent a week in November in the Luberon, exploring Provence, and it started with some sprinkles, but was magnificent most of the time. Short business hours. Yes, many businesses close at dark. Tourist offices are a notable example. The time you take to "get things done" can be somewhat shorter as daylight hours shrink. You'll have to pack large. Sweaters, jackets, boots and long sleeves take up way more room than typical summer far--and take far longer to dry if you're used to washing a few things in the hotel sink. Winter Travel Tips and Resources Late fall and winter is the time to visit large cities. European Cities are packed with attractions and have adequate public transportation. Cabs and the metro can get you around a big city. Renting an apartment with its own heat control can keep you warm and make you feel like you are part of things. Trains can relieve you of the dangerous bits of bad-weather driving. By the way, don't just think of trains as a way to move from city to city with your baggage, they can also take you to different places for a day trip visit. Base yourself in a big city, and think of places you can get to with a one hour train trip. Paris > Versailles for example. Or, if it's not raining in Burgundy, you could take the train to Dijon for the day. Snow Tire Requirements in Europe Europe - Sunrise, sunset, dawn and dusk times