Europe's Top 5 Holiday Destinations

Are you dreaming of cobblestone streets, scenic landscapes, and cultural wonders? 
21st February 2024

Look no further than Europe, a continent full to the brim of captivating destinations for your next holiday getaway! From historic cities to picturesque coastlines, Europe offers experiences to satisfy everyone in the family. We spoke with our amazing photographers and worked out their top 5 holiday destinations:

1. Paris, France

I mean, let's be real… Paris has to be on top.

Known as the "City of Love" and the "City of Lights," Paris captivates visitors with its timeless charm, iconic landmarks, and artistic treasures! Take a romantic stroll along the Seine River, marvel at the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower, and immerse yourself in world-renowned museums like the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay. Maybe you can resolve the long debated Mona Lisa - does she smile or not?

Also, the food is fantastic! Live your best ‘Ratatouille’ life by visiting wonderful bistros and patisseries and tasting the amazing French cuisine. We’ll ignore the fact that croissants originate from Austria.

2. Santorini, Greece

Escape to the enchanting island of Santorini, where whitewashed buildings decorate rugged cliffs above the gorgeous Aegean Sea. The whole island is like nature’s spa!

Celebrated for its stunning sunsets, picturesque villages, and pristine beaches, Santorini offers a blissful retreat for sun-seekers and romantics alike. Explore the charming streets of Fira, Santorini’s capital, unwind on the very cool black sand beaches of Kamari and Perissa, and taste delectable Greek cuisine at seaside tavernas.

Don't miss your opportunity to set sail on a boat tour to discover the island's hidden coves and volcanic scenery. Don’t worry, the volcano is dormant!

3. Rome, Italy

You’ll feel like Doctor Who time travelling in the eternal city of Rome, where ancient ruins, Renaissance architecture, and vibrant piazzas come together. 

Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon! You could also wander through the charming, historical streets of Centro Storico, or stop off for a bite to eat and a drink at Trastevere. 

Authentic Italian cuisine is a necessity when in Rome, from mouthwatering pasta dishes to creamy gelato, these Italian restaurants are sure to make Gino D’Campo proud!

For a relaxing journey, why not take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil gardens of Villa Borghese and visit the gallery.

As you can see, there’s so much to do in Rome. Just, don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this beautiful city! 

4. Barcelona, Spain

Vibrant, diverse and utterly captivating, Barcelona attracts travellers with its unique blend of Catalan culture, stunning architecture, and lively atmospheres. 

Explore the architectural wonders of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, including the incredible church of Sagrada Familia and the colourful Park Güell. 

Stroll down the tree-lined promenade of La Rambla and sample tapas and local wines at the bustling market La Boqueria, or visit the Erotica Museum to explore the representation of sexuality in art… Don’t bring the kids though.

Everyone loves the beach on holiday, so why not soak up the sun on the sandy shores of Barceloneta Beach, or recreate the battle between Don Quixote and the Knight of the White Moon! 

Fun fact: this beach inspired Miguel de Cervantes as the setting for his character’s epic battle when writing his novel, ‘Don Quixote’.

5. Berlin, Germany

Berlin, a city steeped in history, culture, and energy, is a fantastic holiday destination for friends and families worldwide.The Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie, offer profound insights into human resilience and the course of modern history. 

Despite the rich history of the city, Berlin is not just a relic of the past! It possesses a thriving art scene, innovative architecture, and a diverse culinary landscape.

With it being NINE times bigger than Paris, you’ll never run out of things to do!

Immerse yourselves in world-class museums, like the Pergamon Museum and the East Side Gallery, or wander through neighbourhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, where street art decorates every corner, making for the perfect photo background. Trust us, there’s some awesome looking art.

The city's nightlife is legendary, with an array of clubs and bars to choose from, you’ll have an epic night out with your friends!

Berlin can do it all - their green spaces, such as Tiergarten and Tempelhofer Feld, offer tranquil retreats amidst the busy urban streets (the perfect place to recover from your hangovers!)

Whether you’re looking for romance in Paris, relaxation in Santorini or exploration in Barcelona, Europe is full of beautiful cities with history and culture for you to explore.

#Picster