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Europe

The whole world in one pint-sized continent

Paul Bloomfield Jane Foster Jools Stone Baia Dzagnidze Jeremy Head
By Paul Bloomfield , Jane Foster , Jools Stone , Baia Dzagnidze & Jeremy Head
Georgia Tbilisi5
Les Chalmettes Queyras Regional Natural Park Alps France
France Marseille

Fly into Europe from more sparsely populated parts of the world and something odd happens on the in-flight map. Suddenly the world feels smaller, more compact, with place names jostling for space.

Just hours ago you were flying over the empty vastness of Canada or the Central Asian steppe. Now the map is criss-crossed with national borders and studded with evocatively-named capital cities. This is the cradle of western culture: where empires rose and fell, where turbulent, messy history unfolded to shape the world—often against its will.

But Europe is no museum: for every castle and cathedral there is a modern and diverse city, each with its own cultural scenes and distinct identity. And away from the towns and cities are majestic mountain ranges, remote villages in rural hinterlands, fairytale forests and glorious coastlines. It's a well worn travel writing trope but Europe, truly, has everything.

Geographically speaking, tiny Europe shouldn't really be considered a continent in its own right; more a minor appendage on the great Eurasian landmass. But try telling that to a 21-year-old with an InterRail ticket and a guidebook. When you can cross a dozen national borders in 24 hours and have to cope with accents, cuisines and traditions changing every 100 miles or so, you could spend a lifetime exploring Europe and never come close to seeing and revelling in all its wonderful complexity.

When you think of Europe you might feel like you've "been there and done it". We're willing to bet that you've barely scratched the surface. Take another look. Book your train tickets and hop on board. Europe—the real Europe—is just waiting to be discovered.

Hidden gems in Europe

Norway & Svalbard
Jan Mayen Island

Norway & Svalbard

Sarah Riches
Sarah Riches
Place

Greenland to Svalbard expeditions may call at the Norwegian island of Jan Mayen. Home to the world’s most northerly active volcano, Beerenberg, the isle is 500km from mainland, with no harbours or civilians (there’s a military presence) – making it the ideal nature reserve. Expect a ‘wet landing’ – you’ll have to jump out of your Zodiac inflatable boat – and to spot vulnerable snowy owls, Atlantic puffins and black-legged kittiwake. Over on the Norwegian mainland, the Arctic Circle passes through Melfjord, halfway up the coast. Itineraries tend to include Svartisen Glacier and the Lofoten Islands, where the sea is Caribbean-clear. If Tromso city is a shock to the system, return to the wild at North Cape, Europe’s most northern point. Cruises to and from Svalbard pass Bear Island, a nature reserve pockmarked with caves. Fulmars, puffins and gannets circle its shores, but you might also have zero visibility. On Svalbard itself, you may stop at Hornsund Bay, like the president of The Arctic Club did when he sailed there on his yacht. “We arrived in fog and something nudged our boat,” says Alasdair Flint. “We thought we were being attacked by a polar bear so we got our rifles out, but fortunately it was massive bearded seal.” Sailing clockwise, you may also explore Bellsund; settlements such as Longyearbyen and Ny-Alesund and Lilliehook Glacier. Nordaustlandet Island and the islands near it – Kvitoya, Kong Karls Land, Barents and Edge – are particularly remote, so expect polar bears.

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AmaMagna
Europe

AmaMagna

Edwina Lonsdale
Edwina Lonsdale
Accommodation

For the Danube, I’d pick AmaMagna. This vessel is an unusual sight on the Danube: it’s the same length as most river cruise ships, but twice the width. And after a career spent aboard river cruise vessels, I really appreciated the extra space! The extra room allows for larger-than-average cabins – many over 300 square feet, which would be the preserve of top tier suits on other vessels. I also enjoy having more communal areas than you’d find on other vessels. There’s a choice of restaurants, with menus inspired by the regions you pass through to more familiar international dishes, and a generous spa and fitness space. I absolutely adore the scenery of the Wachau Valley, best enjoyed from the open deck watching terraced vineyards give way to pretty villages and historic towns. It is such a treat to meet with friends at the pop-up bar, or pick a comfortable lounger to watch the world go by. But what I loved best after a busy day of sightseeing was a late afternoon game of pickleball, followed by a dip in the pool with a glass of local wine. During the day, the atmosphere on board is informal and relaxed; evenings tend to feel a little more dressed-up without being overly stuffy.

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S.S. La Venezia
Venice

S.S. La Venezia

Edwina Lonsdale
Edwina Lonsdale
Accommodation

For Venice, I’d pick the 126 passenger S.S. La Venezia, which began life as Uniworld’s River Countess but was completely refitted in 2020 for sailing in the Venetian Lagoon. My first impression was the striking interior design, decorated with Murano glass and patterned fabrics giving it a notably ornate and ‘Venetian’ feel. There are three dining venues on board, all serving Italian-inspired dishes, and a mix of public areas for relaxing between excursions. For me, though, the real appeal is the range of shore excursions and the sense of getting away from the worst of the tourist bustle. We took an evening visit to St Mark's Basilica once the crowds had cleared, with the doors opened just for us. Experiencing this glorious space in the soft evening light, entirely unhurried and peaceful, was truly magical. While the mega cruises dock at the industrial port on the mainland at Marghera, on the La Venezia you get to experience the Venetian Lagoon in its full glory, visiting lesser-visited islands and docking right in historic Venice.

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Scenic Azure
Douro Valley

Scenic Azure

Edwina Lonsdale
Edwina Lonsdale
Accommodation

For the Douro, I’d pick the Scenic Azure. It’s a small ship built specifically for the narrow and winding Douro, carrying up to 96 passengers. It’s the only vessel of its kind in Scenic’s fleet, with a modern, uncluttered design and a compact, easy-to-navigate layout. Despite its small size, there’s a good sun deck with a small vitality pool and a short walking track, and a lounge and bar that work well for a drink before dinner. Cabins come with butler service, though for me much of the appeal is in exploring ashore. Excursions are included, but you can also go at your own pace using GPS headsets loaded with walking tours – I find this the ideal way to explore Porto’s back streets at my own pace. I also love taking one of the ship’s electric bikes out for a gentle ride along the river.

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The best rivers for wine cruises
The Rhine

The best rivers for wine cruises

Edwina Lonsdale
Edwina Lonsdale
Experience

If you’re into wine, chances are there’s a Europe river cruise for you. It’s a good way to explore the continent’s wine culture: you meander from city to city, calling in at vineyards and wine tastings along the way, and of course – you don’t need to worry about who’s driving! Wine lovers might initially gravitate towards some of the French big hitters: the bold reds and famous names of the Rhône, the Garonne or the Dordogne. Or perhaps you’d think of the Douro in Portugal, as famous for its port as its hearty reds. So it might be a surprise to hear me recommend the Rhine and Moselle river valleys as an alternative to the more obvious wine regions. Partially this is just down to personal taste: the rieslings found here are varied, delicate and approachable. Even if you’re not a huge fan of white wine, I’m sure you’ll find something here to your taste. But I think what really swings it for me is that on these rivers, it’s about much more than simply the wine alone. Only here do you get an excellent wine experience plus the scenic beauty of the Rhine Gorge and the Moselle, the classic storybook towns and the ridiculous density of castles and medieval heritage, all in one package. So yes, if you’re a red wine person above all else – maybe look to France or the Douro. For everyone else, the below itinerary is my top wine cruise recommendation. On specifically wine-focused cruises you’ll be hosted by a wine professional and will get a range of excursions with food and wine pairings, curated wine tasting visits, and gentle hikes or cycling trips through the vineyards.

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The Danube
Danube

The Danube

Fran Golden
Fran Golden
Place

This mighty river running through the heart of Europe has long been romanticized, most famously with the namesake "Blue Danube" waltz by Johann Strauss. But the waterway is not only a European cultural icon, it’s also a key trade route that has played an important role in the continent’s history, from early man to modern times and with all the long and turbulent drama in between. A cruise on the river offers the very essence of Central Europe: rolling hills and medieval castles, vineyards, bird-lined marshes and cliffs, small river towns and some of Europe’s best known cities. Cruises on this river typically split into trips on the upper or lower Danube. On the upper Danube, cruises generally sail from Bavaria to Budapest, Hungary, through Austria's scenic Wachau Valley, and include stop-offs at two of Europe’s most important cultural and historic cities, Vienna and Bratislava, Slovakia. Cruises on the lower Danube take in the dramatic eastern stretch between Budapest and Bucharest, Romania, through Croatia, Serbia and Bulgaria, with Dracula-related stop offs among the many attractions. While both offer bountiful historic sights and attractions, the main appeal of the upper Danube cruise itinerary is more focused on central European culture, most notably opera and classical music, wine and art, opulent architecture, medieval fortresses and museums. Cruises along the lower Danube offer a fascinating glimpse behind the former Iron Curtain and a taste of life in post-Communist Eastern Europe, while also promising medieval fortresses and Orthodox churches, not to mention the region’s dramatic natural scenery.

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The Rhône & Saône
The Rhône

The Rhône & Saône

Fran Golden
Fran Golden
Place

With its countless vineyards, stately chateaux and a landscape that has inspired myriad artists throughout the centuries, the Rhône and Saône river region of France is one of the world’s most sought-after river cruising destinations. The names of the historical French regions that make up the Rhône Basin inspire pure romance: Provence, Burgundy, Auvergne, Rhône-Alps and Languedoc-Roussillon. Here, you find yourself following the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin, inspired by natural beauty and fortified by some of the world’s most incomparable wine and cuisine. Along the way, numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites vie for attention, from Avignon to Lyon. Perhaps the most alluring part of a Rhône and Saône river cruise for lovers of good wine is the tremendous winemaking traditions that define this area of Europe. Cruises in the area are sure to include unique experiences: learning about the art of winemaking at the Georges Duboeuf wine village, private wine tastings in Beaujolais and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, wine and cheese tasting in Valance, sampling baked goods and chocolate goodies in Chalon-sur-Saône. It’s certainly a trip to spur an appetite and truly what cruising the Rhône Valley is all about!

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The Douro
Douro Valley

The Douro

Fran Golden
Fran Golden
Place

Portugal beckons with its pristine landscape, tantalizing cuisine and, of course, port wines, in a setting that seems unchanged throughout the centuries. I adore the terraced vineyards, dramatic rock formations, baroque mansions and historic monasteries that line the banks of this graceful river. The Iberian Peninsula’s third-longest river – after the Tagus and the Ebro – the Douro river runs 557 miles across the great Castilian region of Spain and on through Castile and Léon, Soria, Burgo, Valladolid, Zamora and Salamanca. The landscape around the river is replete with wheat fields, vineyards and sheep farms. The UNESCO World Heritage city of Salamanca is a must, as is the 12th-century walled village of Castelo Rodrigo and of course charming Porto, best explored on a walking tour.

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The Dordogne
Dordogne

The Dordogne

Fran Golden
Fran Golden
Place

The serene Dordogne idles its way through rural southwestern France, passing intricate chateaux, forests and beautiful gardens, some of the country’s prettiest villages and medieval towns. The Dordogne flows for 300 miles in the southwest region of France and is considered part of the Aquitaine area. Gentle hills – never overly high or steep – flank the river on both sides, with the highest point being Saint Pierre de Frugie at 479 meters. Much of the land – some 100,000 hectares – is devoted to wine-growing, with acreage farther from the river mainly devoted to poultry farming. Personal highlights are not just the obvious Bordeaux but also La Roque-Gageac, the “cutest town in France,” and historical Beynac and Périgueux.

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The Rhine
The Rhine

The Rhine

Fran Golden
Fran Golden
Place

Cruises along the Rhine boast postcard-perfect views of terraced vineyards and cliff-clinging castles, lending credence to its reputation as one of the world’s most romantic and oft-traveled rivers. From Amsterdam’s charming canals to the fairytale-esque Black Forest, the river delights lovers of history, wine, culture and cuisine. In the course of a week, river cruises in the region are able to showcase the dramatic Rhine Gorge, legendary Lorelei rock, Holland’s famed windmills and tulip fields, university towns and cosmopolitan cities, medieval castle ruins and esteemed museums. Flowing for approximately 820 miles, the Rhine River originates at the Rheinwaldhorn Glacier in the Swiss Alps and culminates in Basel, Switzerland – just before which it tumbles over a 75-foot waterfall, the Rheinfall. The majority of the river’s waters pass through Germany, while river cruises along the Rhine will also introduce travellers to the sights and cultures of Liechtenstein, Austria, France and the Netherlands. Most cruise itineraries focus on the particularly lovely stretch of the Middle Rhine from Bingen to Bonn as it passes through steep gorges (including the Rhine Gorge, at 430 feet deep), along the Rhineland Plateau and in view of the Rhenish Slate Mountains.

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The Seine
The Seine

The Seine

Fran Golden
Fran Golden
Place

With Paris as its highlight, the Seine is made for romantics who seek the serene pleasures of river cruising with the in-depth exploration of the country that this – France’s second-largest river – provides. An inspiration for French impressionism, a setting for world wars and a boon for history lovers, the river is also replete with opportunities to indulge in the country’s fine wine and cuisine. Extending for more than 480 miles, the Seine originates in wine-producing Burgundy near Dijon and meanders its way lazily through Paris and Normandy to Le Havre, where it joins the English Channel. My personal highlights on a Seine river cruise include Paris (obvious), the clifftop village of Les Andelys, two-thousand-year-old Rouen, the lovely coastal town of Honfleur, and solemn visits to the Normandy beaches.

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Mount Khustup ascent
Syunik

Mount Khustup ascent

Nune Taunts
Nune Taunts
Experience

Beyond the semi-famous and popular Mount Aragats climb, pretty much any walking holiday in Armenia will feel like you're well off the beaten path – none more so than in the little visited Syunik province in the country's south, near the Iranian border. While the crowds flock to Aragats, I usually recommend those with the time and a sense of adventure to head south and climb Mount Khustup instead. This is a true hidden gem that takes you deep into the rugged landscapes of Syunik, about 350 kilometres from Yerevan. This trip requires careful planning, with at least two full days of travel by car. The hike itself is a full-day ascent through steep and rocky terrain, offering wonderful panoramic views from the summit. Khustup holds deep cultural and historical significance for Armenians who regard the mountain as sacred for its key role in protecting the Syunik region from invasion. One of Armenia’s national heroes, Garegin Nzhdeh, is buried on its slopes, adding to its symbolic importance. But the main appeal comes from the amazing scenery, unpredictable conditions, and the immense sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.

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Europe travel guides

Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, may be a small city by international standards, but it has a lot going for it. Like any European capital, the city is packed with great restaurants, lively bars and a good range of hotels for all budgets.
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in the Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula is a dramatic and wild region of Iceland located on the southwestern tip of the island. This UNESCO-listed geopark is a place of outstanding natural beauty.
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in West Iceland

West Iceland is remote and stunningly beautiful. With its endless lakes, towering mountains and dramatic lava fields, it’s a wonderful region to explore -- ideally on horseback.
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in Westfjords

The Westfjords region is a large peninsula jutting out towards Greenland from Iceland’s extreme northwest corner. The region is dominated by sheer cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea and a countless number of fjords, some small, some large, which are carved into the coastline.
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in North Iceland

With its tumbling waterfalls, seemingly endless lakes and rivers, abundant wildlife and historic monuments, it’s not surprising that North Iceland was voted Lonely Planet’s number one destination to visit in 2015. This remote region is centred on Akureyri, the unofficial capital of North Iceland and second ‘city’ (more a town).
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in East Iceland

The east can be a winter wonderland with endless ice fields, where towns are few and far between, and the northern lights are bright. Wild reindeer roam the land and wildlife such as Arctic char and trout swim in the lakes and wild horses walk the mountains.
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in the Highlands

Whoever coined the phrase “the middle of nowhere” could have had Iceland’s highlands in mind. It’s a vast, unspoilt and unpopulated wilderness -- 40,000 square kilometres of endless deserts, mossy fields, and snow-covered mountains at the centre of the island.
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in South Iceland

South Iceland made the news for all the wrong reasons after the 2010 eruption of volcano Eyjafjallajökull which caused air traffic disruption across the Atlantic. When it’s not causing global travel chaos, this region happens to be one of the best places in Iceland to see the country’s eponymous glaciers, the vast slow-flowing ice fields which cover 10 per cent of the island.
Guide

Where to see the Northern Lights in Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands)

Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands) is an archipelago located off the mainland’s south coast. Heimaey, the main island, is home to around 4,100 people and can be reached by a short flight from Reykjavik, or a ferry.
The beauty of the Northern Lights
Article

The beauty of the Northern Lights

I first saw the Northern Lights on my second trip to Iceland, nearly 10 years ago. They’re impressive enough in photographs, but witnessing them yourself for the first time is a truly life-defining moment.
Europe's best train trips
Guide

Europe's best train trips

Jools Stone
Jools Stone

With the vast expansion of budget air routes in recent decades, it can be all too easy to forget that Europe’s exemplary rail network stretches out, awaiting discovery. By foregoing soulless airports and stuffy planes and you’ll not only get to relax, see and experience far more of the destinations, culture and people you’ll encounter along the way, but you can often do so in greater comfort than you might expect – all while being mindful of minimising your carbon footprint as you go.
Walking holidays in Georgia
Guide

Walking holidays in Georgia

Baia Dzagnidze
Baia Dzagnidze

With its picture-book landscapes, rolling hills and fairytale villages, walking in Georgia's Caucasus mountains is a truly sublime experience.
The Best & Most Beautiful Beaches In Montenegro
Guide

The Best & Most Beautiful Beaches In Montenegro

Jane Foster
Jane Foster

Montenegro is named after the soaring limestone peaks of its mountainous interior. The Venetians called it Monte Negro (meaning "Black Mountain") in the 11th century, and the local inhabitants translated this literally, so they now proudly refer to their country as Crna Gora.
Inside Armenia's shipping container cities
Article

Inside Armenia's shipping container cities

Joel Balsam
Joel Balsam

Armen Hovsepyan was just four months old when his life crumbled around him. A 6.
Walking holidays in Armenia
Guide

Walking holidays in Armenia

Joel Balsam
Joel Balsam

I've been hiking in Armenia for years, visiting as a guidebook writer and travel journalist. With its stunning mountains, sweeping valleys and historic churches dating back to the fourth century, I think Armenia is one of the world's most underrated places for a walking holiday.
Best Treks & Hikes In Azerbaijan
Guide

Best Treks & Hikes In Azerbaijan

Joel Balsam
Joel Balsam

Trekking and hiking routes in Azerbaijan are much less developed than in Georgia or Armenia. Unless you opt for wild hiking, your hiking options are likely to be limited to day treks or national parks.
Best Cycling Holidays In Scotland
Guide

Best Cycling Holidays In Scotland

Colin Baird
Colin Baird

Ancient, often mist-wreathed and mysterious, Scotland has a pull for those seeking solace. From dark, craggy, mountain ridges to exquisite, empty, beaches this is a country as diverse as its myriad islands, dramatic Highlands and rolling Lowlands.
Hadrian's Wall Path
Guide

Hadrian's Wall Path

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

Hadrian's Wall path is a unique walking trail that not only crosses the width of England, but also follows the course of Britain’s largest Roman monument – a 1,900-year-old, 73-mile long fortification that once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. I can't think of many

Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Guide

Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

Whisper it quietly; this might just be the best coastal path in Britain, and one of the UK's best walks overall.
The Pennine Way
Guide

The Pennine Way

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

The Pennine Way, the oldest and one of the toughest of the waymarked UK walking trails, follows the rugged ridge of uplands that form the backbone of northern England.
The South West Coast Path
Guide

The South West Coast Path

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

The South West Coast Path is the longest walking trail in the UK, and also one of its most famous and highly rated.
The South Downs Way
Guide

The South Downs Way

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

If you're looking for an easy-going UK walking holiday, I think the South Downs Way might be the one for you.
Isle of Wight coastal path
Guide

Isle of Wight coastal path

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

As a long distance walk, the Isle of Wight coastal path is quite short but it provides an opportunity to walk right round the shoreline of England’s largest island. You might find that on return to the start point there’s great satisfaction in completing an island’s circumference, regardless of the length!
The Yorkshire Wolds Way
Guide

The Yorkshire Wolds Way

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

One of the quieter and lesser-known of the UK's walks, the Yorkshire Wolds Way leads across the glorious rolling farmland and chalk landscapes of East Yorkshire, an unspoilt corner of England largely neglected by popular tourism.
The Monarch’s Way
Guide

The Monarch’s Way

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

Easily one of the lesser-known of all the long-distance walking holidays in the UK, walking the Monarch’s Way offers some historical interest without the blockbuster fame of

The White Horse Trail
Guide

The White Horse Trail

Daniel McCrohan
Daniel McCrohan

The White Horse Trail is a circular long distance walking route through the Wiltshire countryside linking eight white horse chalk figures and visiting historic sites like Avebury, Silbury Hill and the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Where To See The Northern Lights In Iceland
Guide

Where To See The Northern Lights In Iceland

Timing a trip to Iceland means weighing several factors: there are the usual seasons to contend with, but also some major fluctuations in daylight hours along with, of course, the seasonal aurora cycle. The weather is most pleasant during the summer months, but the stupendously long days mean your chances of seeing the northern lights are almost non-existent.
Family Adventure Holidays In Wales
Guide

Family Adventure Holidays In Wales

Jeremy Head
Jeremy Head

Wales is without question one of the world's best places for family activity breaks. What's particularly handy is there's something for literally everyone.
The West Highland Way
Guide

The West Highland Way

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

The West Highland Way, the oldest and most popular long-distance walk in Scotland, appeals to serious walkers, strolling day trippers and even runners who race the 96 miles in under 35 hours! I would advise a more leisurely pace, around a week to complete the full walk.
The Great Glen Way
Guide

The Great Glen Way

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

The Great Glen fault line bisects the Scottish highlands to create an epic backdrop for this spectacular hike, one of the best walks in Scotland.
The Rob Roy Way
Guide

The Rob Roy Way

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

One of the more historical of Scotland's best walks, the Rob Roy Way is named in honour of the 17th-century folk hero who captures the popular imagination to this day.
The Speyside Way
Guide

The Speyside Way

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

The Speyside Way is one of four officially designated long distance walks in Scotland (the others are the West Highland Way, the Southern Upland Way and the Great Glen Way).
The Fife Coastal Path
Guide

The Fife Coastal Path

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

Tamer than most of Scotland's walking trails, the Fife Coastal Path passes through picturesque seaside villages, old smuggling caves, and fabulous beaches.
St Ninian's Way (Carlisle to Whithorn)
Guide

St Ninian's Way (Carlisle to Whithorn)

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

Much lesser-known than other Scottish walks, the 250 mile St.
The Arran Coastal Way
Guide

The Arran Coastal Way

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

One of the shorter, but still pretty challenging, of Scotland's walks, the Arran Coastal Trail gives a rewarding circuit around the beautiful, accessible, Isle of Arran in the Firth of Clyde, west of Glasgow. The route leads around the coastal fringe of Arran’s mountainous north down its west coast to the sandy beaches, rocky shores and gentler landscapes of the south.
West Island Way
Guide

West Island Way

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

Another lesser-known Scottish walking trail, the West Island Way around the Isle of Bute in the Firth of Clyde boasts secluded beaches, a range of wildlife, and a generally flat profile.
The Kintyre Way
Guide

The Kintyre Way

Fergal MacErlean
Fergal MacErlean

Less well known than the West Highland Way, this 100-mile (161km) trail zig-zags down through the peaceful and energising Kintyre Peninsula.
Slow Scotland by campervan
Article

Slow Scotland by campervan

Steven Hunt
Steven Hunt

It’s midsummer in the time of Covid quarantines and it feels like everyone is missing out on cancelled holidays to distant beaches. But for us the summer holiday is the year's first shot at normalcy; packing the boys into our trusty 1986 Volkswagen T3 for an adventure closer to home, returning to my homeland to explore the highlands and islands of west Scotland.
The best walking holidays in Europe
Guide

The best walking holidays in Europe

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

Europe is a famously popular and, in places, crowded travel destination. Escaping the bustle on a walking holiday in Europe's more-remote corners is a good way to escape the day trippers, tour buses and cruise ships that plague the continent’s busier hotspots.
Walking holidays in the Alps
Guide

Walking holidays in the Alps

Rudolf Abraham
Rudolf Abraham

Organised walking holidays in the Alps come in two broad categories: inn-to-inn or centre-based. Inn-to-inn walking holidays typically follow one of the official waymarked long distance walking trails; your accommodation will be pre-booked and your overnight luggage will be transferred for you from point to point.
Walking in the Pyrenees
Guide

Walking in the Pyrenees

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

The Pyrenees are among the absolute best of all Europe's walking destinations.
Walking Holidays In Portugal
Guide

Walking Holidays In Portugal

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

If you’re looking for lower cost hiking with the added bonus of glorious coastline, I’d suggest a walking holiday in Portugal should be near the top of your list. Mainland Europe’s westernmost nation state is also among its oldest, and stories from its long history seep into every walk.
Walking Holidays In The Tyrol Mountains
Guide

Walking Holidays In The Tyrol Mountains

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

If you’re looking for classic Alpine scenery but have already had your fill of the more famous French and Swiss Alps (or just prefer somewhere a little less popular) then I think the Tyrol mountains may be for you. The westernmost finger of Austria, sandwiched between Bavaria and northern Italy, is essentially all mountain – the Tyrol (and its westerly neighbour, little Vorarlberg) is a coherent picture of classic Alpine scenery.
The best walking holidays in Greece
Guide

The best walking holidays in Greece

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

If you’re as interested in history as landscapes, I don’t think you can beat Greece for a walking holiday. For centuries, walking was an essential aspect of daily life in Greece, linking remote settlements in mountainous regions and islands.
Walking Holidays In The Dolomites
Guide

Walking Holidays In The Dolomites

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

Another good alternative to the busier French and Swiss Alps, I would argue the Italian Dolomites, in Italy’s far northeast, are the most beautiful section of the Alps. This is my top choice for a walking holiday that combines photogenic mountains with superb cuisine.
The best walking holidays in Spain
Guide

The best walking holidays in Spain

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

Walking holidays in Spain are dominated by the hugely popular and, in all honesty, often overly-busy Camino de Santiago (commonly just the Camino, or Way of St James in English). This world-famous pilgrimage route that, since the eighth century, has led devotees of St James to his namesake city, Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, today draws hikers in their hundreds of thousands.
Walking Holidays In The Carpathians
Guide

Walking Holidays In The Carpathians

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

One of the few problems with walking in Europe is that it’s pretty hard to find anywhere that’s truly wild.
Walking Holidays In The Black Forest
Guide

Walking Holidays In The Black Forest

Paul Bloomfield
Paul Bloomfield

Compared to some of its neighbouring hiking heavyweights, Germany is (unfairly, in my opinion) one of Europe’s underrated walking holiday destinations.
The best walking holidays in the UK
Guide

The best walking holidays in the UK

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

The United Kingdom is a walking holiday paradise: Hundreds of thousands of miles of well-mapped public footpaths, beautifully varied landscapes, excellent hospitality, and easily accessible. It’s no wonder this is a nation of walkers.
The best walking holidays in Scotland
Guide

The best walking holidays in Scotland

Taylor St. John
Taylor St. John

If you started with a blank sheet and listed all the things you’d want in an ideal walking holiday destination, you’d end up with a list that sounds very much like Scotland. Varied scenery? Check.
The Best Coastal Walks In The UK
Guide

The Best Coastal Walks In The UK

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

With over 11,000 miles of coastline on the main island of Great Britain alone (nearly 20,000 miles when you include the entire archipelago), coastal paths feature highly on many walking holidays and long-distance ways. Aside from fresh sea air and varied, frequently impressive, seascapes, the main advantage to a coastal walking holiday is the relative ease of navigation.
Family walking holidays in the UK
Guide

Family walking holidays in the UK

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

There are some great family-friendly walks in the UK.
Short Walking Breaks In The UK
Guide

Short Walking Breaks In The UK

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

The UK’s long-distance paths might hog all the limelight but not everyone has two weeks spare (or the legs, for that matter!) Fortunately there’s a near inexhaustible number of locations and routes for shorter walking breaks, ideally suited for a more relaxed two- or three-day walking holiday. Most

UK walking holidays for beginners
Guide

UK walking holidays for beginners

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

If you think walking in the UK is all about interminable days on long-distance paths, or scaling Ben Nevis in the driving rain, it’s time to reassess your idea of what a walking holiday can entail.
Budget walking holidays in the UK
Guide

Budget walking holidays in the UK

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

The UK’s tourist hotspots get very pricey very quickly, but venture away from the crowds and you’ll soon find plenty of spectacular spots for a cheaper walking holiday.And, thankfully, cost-conscious walkers don’t need to lose out on the glorious British scenery: there are plenty of superb trails and walking locations slightly outside of the main regions that offer very affordable holidays in incredible landscapes.
Best Walking Holidays In Wales
Guide

Best Walking Holidays In Wales

Kerry Walker
Kerry Walker

Sandwiched between England to the east, the Republic of Ireland across the Irish Sea, and with Scotland looming to the north, Wales can appear somewhat diminutive on a large scale atlas. But zoom in with a smaller-scale OS map and the packed contours and looping footpaths reveal a country that is vast, wild, and eminently explorable by foot.
Northern Ireland's Best Walks
Guide

Northern Ireland's Best Walks

Belinda Dixon
Belinda Dixon

Northern Ireland’s walking trails crest mountain peaks, wind through remote moorland and cross empty beaches. They take in picturesque ruined castles, thundering waterfalls and a coast so spectacular it features in the Game of Thrones.
Pagan Britain: The UK's Ancient Sacred Sites
Article

Pagan Britain: The UK's Ancient Sacred Sites

Lucie Grace
Lucie Grace

The term Pagan comes from the Latin paganus—literally ‘rustic’ or ‘yokel’—used by invading Romans to denigrate pre-Christian faiths considered backwards and inferior to their own. Little is known of these prehistoric Pagan religions, other than what can be interpreted from their mysterious monuments and relics found in all corners of the British Isles.
Where To Walk In Wales
Guide

Where To Walk In Wales

Kerry Walker
Kerry Walker

It may be the smallest nation on the mainland of Great Britain but don’t let its compact size deceive you: Wales is wild, remote and exceptionally well suited to walking holidays. Here’s a handful of Wales’ best walking areas.
A Summer Staycation: UK Holiday Ideas
Guide

A Summer Staycation: UK Holiday Ideas

Lottie Gross
Lottie Gross

The prospect of a summer holiday closer to home might not appeal to all, but don't panic! There's so much more to the UK than faded beach resorts and jam-packed tea rooms. Treat this as an opportunity to eschew the long haul flights and reacquaint yourself with the underrated joys of your own backyard.
Scotland's Top Long Distance Cycle Routes
Guide

Scotland's Top Long Distance Cycle Routes

Colin Baird
Colin Baird

From road trips to mountain biking, single-day trips to epic week-long adventures; here are six of the best long-distance cycling routes in Scotland.
Family Biking Holidays In Scotland
Guide

Family Biking Holidays In Scotland

Colin Baird
Colin Baird

Scotland is a great place to bring your kids on a cycling trip. The National Cycle Network has miles of traffic-free paths and there are even more miles of country roads where vehicles are rare.
Top places for yoga breaks in the UK
Guide

Top places for yoga breaks in the UK

Ellie Ross
Ellie Ross

Yoga may have its roots in ancient India, but it’s spread around the world – and the UK is no exception. Since first landing on the scene here in the early twentieth century, its popularity has soared.
Where To Go For A (Crowd-Free) Short Break In The UK
Guide

Where To Go For A (Crowd-Free) Short Break In The UK

Lottie Gross
Lottie Gross

As UK holidaymakers mentally prepare for a summer holiday closer to home, thoughts may be drawn to tacky amusement arcades in faded seaside towns, or packed village tearooms and traffic-clogged country lanes. But look beyond the over-popular tourist hotspots and you’ll find plenty of hidden and underrated corners of the UK that are perfect for a peaceful short break, but still with plenty to see and do.
Family-Friendly Walking Holidays In Wales
Guide

Family-Friendly Walking Holidays In Wales

Jeremy Head
Jeremy Head

Wales offers hundreds of marked trails from hardcore mountain hikes to placid beachside strolls. Here are three walks that are particularly suited for younger walkers.
Hiking & walking holidays in the Balkans
Guide

Hiking & walking holidays in the Balkans

Rudolf Abraham
Rudolf Abraham

The Balkans draw a fraction of the visitors of Europe’s big hiking destinations in the Alps and Pyrenees. That said, this corner of Europe isn’t immune to the tourism industry’s preference to market what’s already popular rather than its lesser-known places.
Family-Friendly Activities In The Peak District
Guide

Family-Friendly Activities In The Peak District

Helen Moat
Helen Moat

Spanning five counties, the Peak District National Park’s varied landscapes, brimming with hills, valleys, rivers and reservoirs, provide an ideal backdrop for family-friendly adventures.A visit to the Peak District can be as exhilarating or as relaxing as you like, with activities ranging from the gentle – walking with alpacas and riding the monthly musical folk train – to the thrilling – hang gliding, rock climbing and caving.
Climbing Courses In The Peak District
Guide

Climbing Courses In The Peak District

Rosie Bellwood
Rosie Bellwood

The Peak District’s exposed geology and ease of access have made it one of the most popular climbing spots in the country.The gritstone edges of the ‘Dark Peak’ are ideally suited to bouldering and trad climbing, while the limestone crags and quarries in the ‘White Peak’ are renowned for both trad and sport climbing.
Caving & Potholing Courses In The Peak District
Guide

Caving & Potholing Courses In The Peak District

Rosie Bellwood
Rosie Bellwood

The Peak District boasts some incredible caving and potholing opportunities, with tourists and school groups trailing through large caverns daily. The area is littered with caves and old mines ripe for exploring.
Paddleboarding, Canoeing, Kayaking & Wild Swimming In The Peak District
Guide

Paddleboarding, Canoeing, Kayaking & Wild Swimming In The Peak District

Rosie Bellwood
Rosie Bellwood

With abundant rivers, canals and reservoirs, the Peak District is a playground for watersports and the hardy people of the area are happy to venture out whatever the weather. There are courses and experience days across the Peak District with key locations being Combs Reservoir, Carsington Water, Tittsworth and Derwent River.
Landscape Photography Courses In The Peak District
Guide

Landscape Photography Courses In The Peak District

Rosie Bellwood
Rosie Bellwood

With a variety of landscapes that shift dramatically with the seasons, the Peak District is a great place to hone your photography skills.Many beauty spots can be accessed by bike, hike or car and cafes are scattered across the district to pause and refresh your creativity.
Gorge Walking In The Peak District
Guide

Gorge Walking In The Peak District

Rosie Bellwood
Rosie Bellwood

Gorge walking, also known as river scrambling or Ghyll scrambling, is a fun group activity for children and adults alike (depending on the location) that sees you scrambling up waterfalls, swimming through rivers and jumping off rocks into pools. It has similarities with caving, but above ground.
Navigating & Orienteering Courses In The Peak District
Guide

Navigating & Orienteering Courses In The Peak District

Rosie Bellwood
Rosie Bellwood

One of the main draws of the Peak District is its hiking and walking. From multi-day hiking holidays across rough terrain to afternoons walking the copious well trodden paths, there is something for all abilities and fitness levels.
Walking holidays in Ireland
Guide

Walking holidays in Ireland

Yvonne Gordon
Yvonne Gordon

Ireland has a well-developed walking industry and is geared up for self-guided inn-to-inn multi-day walking holidays, where your luggage will follow via a daily baggage transfer service. On some of the more popular walking routes it’s easy to organise your own baggage transfer, alternatively book a self-guided holiday with one of the country’s many operators.
Walking holidays in England
Guide

Walking holidays in England

Simon Heptinstall
Simon Heptinstall

There are two broad categories of walking holidays in England: single location (‘centre based’) or long distance (‘inn-to-inn’) walks. When I've been walking with a big group or with kids in tow, it can work better being based in one location and heading out on day hikes as the group (and weather) sees fit.
Caucasus trekking & hiking
Guide

Caucasus trekking & hiking

Baia Dzagnidze
Baia Dzagnidze

With epic mountain landscapes that rival anywhere in Europe, fairytale villages, rolling hills and some truly excellent cuisine, the Caucasus mountains are one of the world's best – and most underrated –

Walking holidays in Catalonia
Guide

Walking holidays in Catalonia

Nike Werstroh
Nike Werstroh

Most hiking routes in the Barcelona region can be walked all year round, but perhaps my favourite months are spring, early summer and autumn. The Montseny mountains are cooler than on the coast and you can enjoy some trails even on hot summer days.
The best river cruises in Europe
Guide

The best river cruises in Europe

Douglas Ward
Douglas Ward

River cruise vessels are long, narrow, and have a flat bottom because their design is governed by the size of the locks (to raise or lower the water level) they need to negotiate, the bridges they need to sail under, and the depth of the river itself (they also carry one or two lifeboats in case of emergency). It is easy to find your way around – there are typically only two or three decks, a mix of cabins and public rooms, plus an open, upper deck.

Europe itineraries

Classic Caucasus
The Caucasus

Classic Caucasus

Explore the best of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia
17 days From £2,939 pp
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Highlights of the Caucasus
The Caucasus

Highlights of the Caucasus

Wine, wilderness and welcoming cities
13 days From £1,697 pp
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Overlanding through the Caucasus
The Caucasus

Overlanding through the Caucasus

Travel beyond the ordinary in Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia
21 days From £2,261 pp
View trip
Albania off-the-beaten track
Balkans

Albania off-the-beaten track

15-day walking holiday to Albania and Kosovo
15 days
View trip
West Balkans in a week
Balkans

West Balkans in a week

Croatia, Montenegro and Albania highlights
8 days From €890 pp
View trip
Istria’s coastlines and hilltop villages
Croatia

Istria’s coastlines and hilltop villages

Explore Istria’s walking trails for orchids and architecture
8 days From £2,026 pp
View trip
Browse all itineraries

Europe travel companies

The Caucasus

Arara Tour

Small group and tailor-made trips to the Caucasus
Learn more
Balkans

3e Travel

Adventures in Montenegro & the Western Balkans
Learn more
Balkans

Kudu Travel

Cultural walking tours in the Balkans
Learn more
Scotland

EasyWays

Specialists in Scotland walking holidays
Learn more
The United Kingdom

Macs Adventure

Active adventures at home and abroad
Learn more
The United Kingdom

Encounter Walking Holidays

Self-guided walks in South West England & Wales
Learn more
South Downs

South Downs Discovery

South Downs Way walking holidays
Learn more
Europe

Walkers' Britain

Explore the UK & Europe with Walkers' Britain
0800 008 7741
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Find more travel companies

Places to go in Europe

Balkans
Balkans
Europe’s forgotten wonderland
The Caucasus
The Caucasus
Where Asia meets Europe
Portugal
Portugal
Sun and sand and so much more
Iceland
Iceland
Dramatic landscapes and beautiful glaciers
The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom
Four nations, one shared history
France
France
Europe's cultural capital
Spain
Spain
A modern nation with an old heart
Ireland
Ireland
The small island with a big heart

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