Boasting culture and history galore, a visit to one of many European destinations is the ideal choice for a getaway. With direct flights readily available, visitors can wake up on arrival ready to explore the sights and sounds, taste the cuisine and experience what a city in Europe has to offer. Although Europe is spectacular throughout the year, Spring perhaps marks the perfect time to visit one (or more) of the cities as the cold winter has given way to pleasant spring temperatures with blue sky above and beautiful flowers in bloom below.
While automatic choices for European destinations invariably include Paris and London, Europe has much to offer beyond these two amazing cities. Here are just four of the alternative cities of culture waiting to be explored
1. Dublin, Ireland
A compact city, full of Irish charm, Dublin, Ireland makes for a special break where visitors can be engulfed by Celtic culture as they tour sights including historic buildings, impressive Georgian squares and the many small parks dotted in and around the center of the city. No visit to Dublin is complete without a trip to the Guinness Storehouse; a 1904 listed building which tells the story of this famous Irish drink. Even if you don't wish to sample it, the tour tells a great deal of the history of Ireland. Once the sightseeing is over, be sure to take a wander along the banks of the River Liffey. On St Patrick's Day it turns green!
2. Lisbon, Portugal
The capital of Portugal, Lisbon has long been regarded as a well kept secret but its allure has begun to seep out. A holiday here should be spent wandering the mosaic tiled shopping streets, taking in the inspiring architecture and sipping espresso while people-watching in some of the many grand squares. Perched above the city center is the Castelo de Sao Jorge, restored in the 1930s to its former glory and now offering picture perfect views across the city to the River Tagus and beyond.
3. Copenhagen, Denmark
Perhaps regarded as one of the most vibrant of Europe's Capitals, Copenhagen has much to offer whatever your interests. Meander through the cobbled streets that open up into squares surrounded by impressive architecture and appreciate the ornate churches and castles that can be found within the city. The most famous view of Copenhagen is undoubtedly that of the canal district and the row of colorful buildings lining the banks. While away an evening here enjoying dinner and listening to the popular street entertainment.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Famous for its Gothic Cathedral and Castle, step back in time as you explore this beautiful city. Prague is every historic architecture lover’s dream with examples of every period from Romanesque onwards to be found throughout the city. Visit the Old Town area, which is seen as the heart of the city, and be sure to take in the Old Town Hall, perhaps the most striking building to be seen. Dating from 1338 it has expanded over the centuries and now is composed of a number of colorful Renaissance and Gothic properties. The building’s crowning glory is The Astronomical Clock, a beautiful timepiece that relates the movement of the universe through the signs of the zodiac.
Whichever of the European cities you decide to visit, you will be sure of a memorable experience.
About the author: Laura Costa is a keen writer, traveller and photographer – like most people she would like to do these far more often than she is able to
