Book Luxury European Vacation Deals And Find Tips On Important Museums And Holidays In Europe

Paris Attractions on European Vacations

Paris is a great way to start your European vacations. The Eiffel Tower, in its time considered a monstrosity, is now probably the most famous of all its landmarks, but it is by no means the only one. Close to the Eiffel Tower is the Arc de Triomphe at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, built to honor the fallen heroes of France during the Napoleonic Wars. Shop until you drop at the nearby Champs-lyses, a favorite of travelers who come to Paris solely to shop. France is almost synonymous to art, and Paris has numerous museums that tourists will love. A city icon, the Louvre Palace showcases nearly 35,000 pieces dating from prehistory up until the 19th century sprawled over an area covering 60,600 square meters. Muse dOrsay is in the former railway station, the Gare dOrsay, and holds mainly French art from 1848 to 1915 paintings, sculptures, photography and furniture. It is perhaps best known for its extensive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Manet, Czanne, Degas, Renoir and Van Gogh. When in town, eat like the locals do -- relax at a caf, order a baguette, and watch life pass by.

European Vacations to Medieval Stockholm

Since over three quarters of a millennium ago, when Stockholm was born, there has been a settlement in Gamla Stan the Old City. As early as 1252, pillaging raids abounded in the winding medieval alleyways, small town squares, ancient churches and of course, the Royal Palace. Today, the horses and donkeys with carriages have been replaced by dozens of bus tours carrying tourists from around the world. To see the sights at your own pace, stay away from the main streets and explore the quaint side streets on your European vacations. Be amazed at how far Sweden has gone by taking a peek at City Hall, locally known as Stadshuset. It is Stockholms most prominent landmark that hosts some of the worlds most respected individuals at its annual Nobel Prize banquet. See the 10,000-piped organ, the impressive Golden Hall where Swedish history is depicted on wall mosaics with 18 million pieces in gold leaf, and the Council Chamber, which resembles the open roof of a Viking longhouse.

Look Back to Ancient Greece on European Vacations

Take a walk through history with a visit to ancient Greece on European vacations. At the heart of Athens is a massive structure called Hadrians Arch which spans an ancient road leading to the Acropolis and a complex of structures on the eastern side of the city. The Temple of Olympian Zeus once stood on this development, built to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian when he arrived at the city for his many significant contributions to Athens. Drive from Athens through the fertile plains of Boeotia to reach Delphi. It is the center of the ancient world, found on the slopes of the majestic Mount Parnassus. Here you can see the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythios and the Temple of Apollo. Marvel at the wealth of the ancient times with a visit to the Treasury of the Athenians. Don't forget to stop by the museum where you can admire ancient Greek masterpieces including the world famous bronze Charioteer.

European Vacations to Charming Lisbon

Lisbon is one of the most popular destinations for people on European vacations. Although it is very small compared to other capital cities, Lisbon in Portugal is equally quaint and charming. Cobblestone streets, rolling hills, and pastel-themed houses line the shores of this port city, its sidewalks accented with mosaics. Relax in the Art Nouveau cafes, or take a scenic ride on an antique wooden streetcar. For breathtaking views of the city, go up a 1902 street elevator -- the Elevator de Santa Justa -- moving from Baixa to the steep elevation of Barrio Alto. More spectacular scenes are to be admired on the viewing platform of the Padro dos Descobrimentos, a majestic 179-foot monument that memorializes the Age of Discoveries. Dont forget to visit the museum inside and set aside time to go to the Belm Tower, a 100-foot, four-story tower built in the early 16th century from lioz limestone, which played a significant role in the Portuguese maritime achievements in same age.