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The capital of the Netherlands located along the banks of the Amstel River, its namesake, is considered among the greatest planned cities of northern Europe. It has played a critical role in the country's development, having once been the center of world economy and now known as a destination of open-minded values. Since the 17th century, the Jewish culture and religion has influenced life here, and you can see hundreds of years of their history throughout the city. Amsterdam isn't known for its beachfront scenery, but the Zandvoort aan Zee beach, formerly a fishing port established as far back as 1100, now stands as a popular seaside resort town.
The richness of Belgian culture comes alive in the colorful city of Oostend (Dutch for West End). A vibrant mix of fine arts, medieval history, avant-garde fashion and generations of chocolatiers make it a destination rife for exploration. From the waterfront, the towering masts of the Mercator beckon you and your fellow travelers to discover a history of polar exploration. Moments of delight await along the rocky shores of De Nieuwe Oostende Pier, a charming seaside promenade that invites you to take things slow. Oostend is often a gateway to the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Brugge, a maze of cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture and picturesque canals that look straight out of a a fairytale. Gather a group of fellow chocolate lovers and connect with the rich tradition of chocolate making with a specialty workshop. Discover the lesser-known medieval jewel of Ghent, perhaps with fewer crowds and just as stunning castles and bridges.
Cowes is an English seaport town on the Isle of Wight. Located on the west bank of the estuary of the River Medina, it faces the smaller town of East Cowes on the east bank. Enjoy a slice of great British history at Osborne, Queen Victoria's seaside residence. Stroll along her beach and enjoy the walled garden and Swiss Cottage. There are cultural museums, events and galleries to enjoy on both sides of the Medina. Stop by Cowes Castle, originally built by Henry VIII in 1539 to protect England against the threat of invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire.
The Brittany town of Concarneau holds a rich and deep history, from fishing along the main city's harbor to its famous walled old town, Ville Close. It's here your imagination can run wild as you and your fellow explorers traverse the medieval ramparts. You will also find that the past and present have come together, with stone houses converted into crêperies, ice-cream stalls, shops and galleries. Nearby, the quaint village of Pont Aven became a favorite hidden gem of painters, including French artist Paul Gauguin, famous for establishing the École de Pont-Aven art movement known as synthetism. While in Concarneau, listen closely for Breton spoken in the region, a distinct Celtic language that diverges from the usual French spoken in France. The unique Breton culture also offers an array of delicious local cuisine, from mouthwatering butter biscuits known as galettes to fresh seafood dishes like large prawns (camarón) or mussels and fries (moules frites).
Within the Bay of Biscay sits the enchanting city of La Rochelle, a destination filled with rich history, beautiful architecture and sublime cuisine. From the Knights of Templar to the German U-boats from World War II, it has housed several naval fleets, which you can see at the Vieux Port (Old Harbor). The city's Old Town contains a wealth of well-preserved medieval towers, arches, cathedrals and homes that invite you and fellow explorers to take a journey back in time. Discover La Rochelle's traditions of faience, a form of earthenware crafted into stunning pieces of china, and appreciate the artistry behind it. Wander the streets with your newfound friends and admire the magnificent 17th- and 18th-century architecture throughout every path. Once your group has worked up an appetite, stop at one of the seaside restaurants for a serving of mouclade, mussels prepared in cream, saffron, white wine and a hint of curry spice.
There is no region in the world more closely associated with fabulous vineyards than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bordeaux. Located in the southwest of France, not far from the Bay of Biscay, Bordeaux offers about 60 appellations, 9,000 wine-producing châteaux and 13,000 grape growers - more than you could possibly try. For an amazing overview of Bordeaux wine, journey up the Castles Route, which runs along the length of the Médoc peninsula. This road passes eight of the most famous châteaux, including Margaux, Pauillac and Saint-Julien. Not far off lies the mouth of the Gironde estuary, off the coast of Royan and the Grave headland, where you'll catch the first glimpse of the famous Cordouan Lighthouse of Le Verdon-sur-Mer, the oldest working lighthouse in France.
There is no region in the world more closely associated with fabulous vineyards than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bordeaux. Located in the southwest of France, not far from the Bay of Biscay, Bordeaux offers about 60 appellations, 9,000 wine-producing châteaux and 13,000 grape growers - more than you could possibly try. For an amazing overview of Bordeaux wine, journey up the Castles Route, which runs along the length of the Médoc peninsula. This road passes eight of the most famous châteaux, including Margaux, Pauillac and Saint-Julien. Not far off lies the mouth of the Gironde estuary, off the coast of Royan and the Grave headland, where you'll catch the first glimpse of the famous Cordouan Lighthouse of Le Verdon-sur-Mer, the oldest working lighthouse in France.
On the northern edge of the Iberian Peninsula lies Bilbao, a city with historical ties to Basque country. Its best-known museum, The Guggenheim, stands as a shining example of some of the most innovative 20th-century design from renowned architect Frank Gehry. Strolling through the central neighborhood, Indautxu, you’ll come across the picturesque Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This English-style garden, with its enchanting pond, verdant trees and decorative fountains adds a touch of refinement and romance. From the Arenal Gardens, the gateway to Casco Viejo (the Old Quarter), to Miguel de Unamuno Square, where a statue of the famed writer stands sentinel, Bilbao’s everyday life holds an extraordinary magic.
From the antiquated architecture at Plaza Mayor to the ruins of Roman baths at Campo Valdés in Cimavilla, there are so many pieces of the past to uncover as you discover Gijón. Located within the Asturias, the heart of Spain's cider production and culture, you can sample the locally crafted beverage here. Along with cider, try the cuisine, abundant in seafood. The Atlantic Botanical Garden has six main collections dedicated to showcasing plant life and the nature of the Atlantic, educating visitors on the importance of conservation. Take the walk up to the Catalina headland to see the intriguing monument, Elogio del Horizonte.
Portugal's capital Lisbon comes alive with a rich history seen in every nook and cranny of the city. From the resting place of famous explorer Vasco de Gama at Jeronimos Monastery to the impressive turrets of São Jorge Castle dating all the way back to second century B.C.E., Lisbon offers a deep dive into the past to satiate the most curious travelers. While Western Europe's oldest city boasts an array of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, that does not mean it has remained stuck in the past. On the contrary, the colorful culture and vibrant life that runs throughout the city's restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars make it buzz with infectious energy. Taking a tuk tuk through its hard-to-reach passages allows you to experience Lisbon as the locals do.
Portugal's capital Lisbon comes alive with a rich history seen in every nook and cranny of the city. From the resting place of famous explorer Vasco de Gama at Jeronimos Monastery to the impressive turrets of São Jorge Castle dating all the way back to second century B.C.E., Lisbon offers a deep dive into the past to satiate the most curious travelers. While Western Europe's oldest city boasts an array of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, that does not mean it has remained stuck in the past. On the contrary, the colorful culture and vibrant life that runs throughout the city's restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars make it buzz with infectious energy. Taking a tuk tuk through its hard-to-reach passages allows you to experience Lisbon as the locals do.