The most visited attractions in Europe according to Travel & Leisure magazine. Northern lights, Scandinavia or Iceland. France is a country of contrasts, ancient castles and vineyards

There are so many sights in Europe that it is difficult to single out the most significant ones. Some people are more interested in ancient monuments. Someone prefers to visit modern sights. In the cities of Europe there are several dozen architectural monuments included in the list world heritage UNESCO. The most famous and visited are described in the article.

Coliseum

To the construction of this gigantic structure located in the Italian capital, started in 72, and it lasted eight years. Like other Roman amphitheaters, the Collision is an ellipse, the middle of which is occupied by the arena. This landmark of Europe differs from all similar structures in its size. The walls of the Colosseum were built of large marble. The antique master used tuff as a finishing material.

Today, the Colosseum is under the protection of the Italian government. In the 20th century, excavations were carried out under the arena, during which archaeologists discovered the basement.

In the 1930s, near the town of Gniezno, archaeologists discovered the remains of a large settlement. Thanks to the preservative effect of lake silt, not only parts of wooden buildings, but also many objects have been preserved. This gave scientists a unique opportunity to restore the settlement in its original form. The discovery caused a sensation in the scientific world.

Every year in the summer, an archaeological festival is held on the territory of the former settlement, which gathers thousands of participants. Today Biskupin is a famous open-air museum and one of the most famous sights of Eastern Europe. Thanks to the work of archaeologists, tourists have the opportunity to walk along old streets and even visit ancient houses.

leaning tower of pisa

The bell tower was erected in two stages with a break of a hundred years. Construction began in 1173. By that time the ensemble of the square, Piazza dei Miracoli, has almost formed. Almost 100 years later, three more tiers with loggias and galleries appeared, as a result of which overall height tower reached 48 meters.

In 2008, experts said that the fall of the Leaning Tower of Pisa had been stopped. This was preceded by a number of complex events. The state of the famous bell tower is under the control of scientists. Since 1987, the complex has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

St Paul's Cathedral

This is one of the greatest domed structures of the Christian world, the residence of the Bishop of London. The cathedral is located on Ludgate Hill in the center of the City. One of the main attractions of the temple is the Whispering Gallery, located in the inner part of the dome at a height of 55 meters. Here you can observe a unique acoustic effect: if you pronounce a word while standing facing the wall at one end of the gallery, it will be heard at the other, but not heard in the center. In addition, from the gallery you can admire eight magnificent frescoes by James Thornhill depicting scenes from the life of St. Paul.

The Charles Bridge

The oldest crossing over the Vltava is recognized throughout the world as an engineering and artistic masterpiece of the Gothic style. This is the oldest bridge in the capital of the Czech Republic. It is decorated with thirty baroque sculptures.

The first stone in the foundation of the stone structure was laid personally by Charles IV. For almost 5 centuries this bridge was the only one in Prague. Only in the thirties of the XIX century began to build other crossings across the Vltava.

Humanity has built thousands of bridges. However, few of them are significant monuments of their eras, which travelers from all over the world aspire to see. Charles Bridge in Prague is one of such mysterious echoes of the Middle Ages.

Cathedral of Notre Dame

This temple is a masterpiece of early French Gothic, the spiritual heart and calling card of Paris. It is located in the historical center of the city on the Island of the City. The cathedral began to be built in the 12th century on the site where the Temple of Saint Etienne was located. The initiator was the Bishop of Paris. The first stone was laid by Pope Alexander III in 1163.

Notre Dame Cathedral symbolizes zero kilometer, where all roads converge, radiating from Paris.

Tower

Several famous landmarks of Europe are located in London. One of them is a fortress on the north bank of the Thames. IN different times there was a prison royal residence, observatory, state archive, menagerie, mint, royal arsenal.

The famous landmark of Europe appeared thanks to King William I the Conqueror. When in 1166 the Norman troops treacherously invaded Britain and defeated the last Anglo-Saxon king Harold, their leader set about building a fortress right at the city gates of London. Wilhelm wanted to simultaneously control the mouth of the Thames and intimidate the local residents, who were distinguished by their rebellious and freedom-loving disposition.

Almost from the moment of its foundation, this castle became a prison for state criminals. Here the prisoners of the Hundred Years War languished - french king John II and Duke Charles of Orleans.

In the halls of the museum-fortress today you can see ancient instruments of torture, in the courtyard - the place where the scaffold stood, in the treasury - a crown and a scepter british empire.

Cologne Cathedral

This temple is the largest in Germany and one of the medieval monuments in Europe. The attraction belongs to the Roman catholic church is the chair of the Archbishop of Cologne. About 20 thousand people visit the temple every day.

The place on which the cathedral is located was already sacred for local peasants in the Roman period. During excavations, the foundations of several early churches were found there.

The first stone in the foundation of the modern building of the cathedral was laid on August 15, 1248 by Bishop Konrad von Hofstaden. However, around 1450, construction was completely stopped. Times have changed: the Reformation was brewing, the economy of fragmented Germany fell into decline, in the 17th century the Thirty Years' War broke out. Gothic style went out of fashion, it was replaced by the Renaissance and Baroque.

During the occupation of the city by the French, Napoleon expelled the clergy from the cathedral and placed the forage warehouse of his army there. But in the middle of the 19th century, on the wave of a patriotic upsurge, the construction was finally completed. More than six hundred years have passed since the construction began.

This landmark of Western Europe is a huge five-day basilica, which has the shape of a Latin cross with a rounded top. The walls are made of trachyte stone. Outside the building is replete with pilasters, flying buttresses, decorative carvings, sculptural plastic.

Intercession Cathedral

Intercession Cathedral on the Moat is one of the ancient symbols of the Russian capital, a unique example of Russian architecture. More often this landmark of Eastern Europe is called the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed.

It so happened in Rus' that especially significant events were celebrated not by the construction of monuments, but by the erection of temples. In October 1552, Moscow celebrated one of the decisive victories in the difficult struggle of Rus' with a dangerous enemy, namely the capture of Kazan by the troops of Ivan the Terrible.

The victorious king ordered to build a temple in honor of each stage of the victory, and to associate the dedication with the names of saints whose memory falls on the days of victories. This is how several churches appeared in Russia, but only one of them was destined to become a symbol of Belokamennaya, an architectural monument known throughout Europe.

Several legends are associated with the Kremlin landmark. One of them: in 1812, Napoleon was so amazed by the miracle of the Intercession Cathedral that he wanted to move the building to Paris. Finding no way to do this, he ordered the building to be blown up, but the pouring rain extinguished the burnt wicks.

Venice

It is in this Italian city the most romantic sights of Europe are concentrated. A photo and description of the legendary Venetian bridges is presented below.

The city is crossed by about 150 channels, the islands are connected by more than 400 structures. The oldest of them is the wooden Arsenal Bridge, which connects two jagged towers on opposite banks of the canal of the same name.

Most famous bridge in Venice - Rialto, linking the banks of the Grand Canal. For several centuries it was wooden. In the 16th century, the building collapsed, and then the Doge announced a competition for the construction of a stone bridge. Among others, the great Renaissance architects Michelangelo and Sansovino presented their projects. For three years, according to his project of the winner, Antonio de Ponte, a stone Rialto bridge 48 meters long was erected.

Another symbol of Venice is the Bridge of Sighs. This is the only path that connects the Doge's Palace with the building of the former city prison. On it, the prisoners passed into the cell, and those sentenced to death were led to execution. Through the two barred windows of the bridge they last time saw a piece of the sky and sighed sadly. As many mistakenly believe, the bridge has nothing to do with lovers.

Palace of Versailles

Versailles is the palaces of the French kings, surrounded by luxurious gardens and swift fountains. More than four centuries ago, an architectural and park ensemble was created, which today is included in the list of the most grandiose sights of Europe. Every person has seen a photo of Versailles at least once in their life. This is one of the symbols of France.

The first king to hunt in the game-rich forests of Versailles was Henry IV. His son, Louis XIII, built a modest hunting lodge on these lands in 1623. This moment is considered to be the beginning of the history of Versailles, which, perhaps, can be attributed to the main attractions of Europe.

On the site of the hunting house, the next French king decided to build a castle. For embodiment grand design he invited the best masters. Construction began in 1661. It ended in 1682.

The scale of Versailles still impresses today. The length of the palace is 500 meters. total area ensemble - about 10 km 2. Modest hunting lodge in the woods near Paris turned into a magnificent palace, where the luxury of the French royal palace.

Dancing house in Prague

Prague is a city where almost every building has become a significant part of history. Including this house, located on Resslova street and the Vltava embankment.

People call it the "dancing house" or "Ginger and Fred" - in association with Hollywood dancers of the 20th century. Indeed, two constructivist towers, located in close proximity, are very reminiscent of a pair of giants gliding along the streets of the Czech capital in a graceful dance.

Eiffel Tower

In 1884, the French government decided to hold a world exhibition in Paris dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. At its entrance, they planned to erect an unusual monument that would amaze the imagination of participants and visitors.

Employees of the Eiffel engineering firm proposed to create a metal tower 300 m high. Construction began in 1887. It provoked protests from many respected cultural figures, including the writers Guy de Maupassant and Alexandre Dumas son. However, construction continued. The opening took place in March 1889.

Europe is one of the smallest continents on earth. About 40 thousand years ago in Europe modern people ousted the Neanderthals, and since then European civilization has begun. According to ancient Greek mythology, Europe was called the daughter of the Phoenician king Agenor and Telefassa, who was kidnapped by Zeus. Subsequently, Europa became the wife of Zeus.

Europe is washed by the waters of the Arctic Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Mediterranean, Black and Caspian Seas. The eastern border of Europe runs along the Ural Mountains.

The continent of Europe includes numerous islands, peninsulas and archipelagos. The coastline of continental Europe covers 38,000 kilometers. The total area of ​​Europe is 9.938 million square meters. km (this is 2% of the Earth's territory). Europe is part of the Eurasian Peninsula.

The climate in most of Europe is temperate, in southern Europe it is Mediterranean and even partially subtropical with warm, humid winters and hot summers. On the Svalbard archipelago, which geographically also belongs to Europe, the climate is subarctic and arctic.

The most long river in Europe - the Volga (3645 km), flowing through Russia. The list of the largest European rivers also includes: the Danube (2960 km), the Dnieper (2201 km), the Don (1870 km), the Kama (1805 km), the Dniester (1352 km), the Rhine (1233 km), the Elbe (1165 km) , Ural (2428 km), Vistula (1047 km), Tahoe (1038 km), Loire (1012 km), Oder (854 km) and Neman (937 km).

In Europe, there are several very large, and also very beautiful, lakes. Among them are Ladoga, Peipus and Onega lakes in Russia, Lake Vänern in Sweden, Lake Balaton in Hungary and Lake Geneva in Switzerland and France.

Approximately 17% of the territory of Europe is occupied by mountains - the Pyrenees, the Alps, the Apennines, the Carpathians, the Balkans, the Caucasus, the Urals and the Scandinavian mountains. The highest mountain of this continent is Elbrus (Russia), its height is 5642 meters.

On this moment The population of Europe already exceeds 842 million people. This is about 13% of the total population of the Earth. Most Europeans live in Eastern Europe.

Almost the entire population of Europe belongs to the Caucasoid race, which is divided into several smaller races:

Atlanto-Baltic race (Great Britain, Ireland, Scandinavia, Iceland, northern Germany, the Netherlands, Estonia and Latvia);
- Central European race ( central regions Western Europe, most of territories of Eastern Europe, Ukraine and the European part of Russia);
- Balkan-Caucasian race (Albania, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, northern Greece, Bulgaria, southern Austria and northern Italy);
- Indo-Mediterranean race (Spain, Italy, France, southern Greece, Cyprus and Malta);
- White Sea-Baltic race ( northern territories Russia, Lithuania and partly Latvia).

At the moment, there are 56 countries in Europe (of which 6 countries are the so-called unrecognized republics). The biggest European country- Russia (its territory occupies 17,098,242 sq. km), and the smallest is the Vatican (0.44 sq. km). By the way, more than 291 million people now live in Russia.

Sometimes Europe is divided into 5 regions (Western, Eastern, Northern, Southern and Central), which in turn are divided into seven geographical sub-regions:

Scandinavia (Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark);
- British Isles (Great Britain and Ireland);
- Western Europe (France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Monaco);
- Southern Europe(Portugal, Spain, Andorra, Italy, Malta, San Marino and the Vatican);
- Central Europe(Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary);
- South-East Europe (Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia, Romania, Bulgaria, Greece and the European part of Turkey);
- Eastern Europe (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, Russia, Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan).

Many cities in Europe were founded before our era. Now the most densely populated city in Europe is Istanbul, the former capital of Turkey, which is home to more than 12.2 million people.

Other Largest cities Europe - Moscow, London, St. Petersburg, Berlin, Madrid, Rome, Kyiv, Paris, Bucharest and Budapest. However, some European cities that play a significant political and cultural role in the world have relatively few inhabitants. These cities include Athens, Oslo, Brussels, Copenhagen and Geneva.

World Travel

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04.08.17 10:53

When the inhabitants of the New World plan a trip to Europe, their imagination most often draws standard pictures: the Eiffel Tower illuminated by hundreds of lights, ancient Roman ruins like the Colosseum and the Forum, Big Ben and Tower Bridge. The natural attractions of Europe come to mind not to all tourists, but the continent is filled with the most beautiful corners virgin flora and fauna! One can only wonder how in the part of the world where more than 700 million people live, there are so many incredible plains, mountains, gorges, forest areas on which, it seems, the traveler's foot has not set foot. In fact, of course, everything is not so: the feet of tourists have trampled down and across the natural sights of Europe, it’s just that nature reserves and national parks require special treatment, certain rules are observed here, and cultural people do not allow themselves barbarism.

We have compiled the top 12 most beautiful natural attractions in Europe, admire and be inspired!

From the Stone Curtain to the Sanctuary of Pan: Europe's Natural Landmarks

Cliffs of Moher: an Irish wonder

The western tip of Ireland ends abruptly at Atlantic Ocean like a heavy stone curtain. These are the Cliffs of Moher, a natural wonder named after an 18th-century fortress that stood on a picturesque cliff. Surely, it was this natural landmark of Europe that inspired the authors of the cult fantasy The Princess Bride to create the Rocks of Madness. Powerful walls rise 120 and 200 meters above the waves roaring below. Just imagine: these ancient formations are about 300 million years old! One of the legends about the rocks of Moher says: the golden city of Kilstiffen once stood here, but its head lost the keys to the stunning castle, and the city plunged into stormy waters.

Verdon Gorge in France: turquoise waves

The French river Verdon makes its way through the limestone of the Triassic period, forming a bizarre gorge. This is a kind of Grand Canyon of the Provence region, penetrating the space from the outskirts of Paris to the beaches of the Riviera. The dazzling turquoise waters of the river rush through a 25-kilometer ravine between high limestone walls rising 700 meters. Charming views and an unusual color of the water attract rock climbers, kayakers and just tourists who admire the panorama and take great photos.

Valley of the Portuguese Douro River: an ornament on the emerald hills

If you move south, "moving" to Portugal, then you will witness a completely different show, arranged by the Douro River. Cruises along this river have long been a favorite attraction of travelers (such voyages have a bonus: tasting local wines). The fertile lands of the Douro Valley make it an excellent place for growing grapes. So for almost two thousand years people have been growing here first-class grape varieties and protecting and cherishing olive groves. The intervention of farmers does not interfere with natural harmony, and the slender rows of vineyards on natural emerald hills above the river look like an intricate ornament.

The deadly charm of the Matterhorn

Rising proudly over the Swiss-Italian border, the Matterhorn is the most photographed mountain in the world, according to Swiss tour operators. Still, the Matterhorn is an impressive sight! It resembles a bizarre pyramid with a height of 15 thousand feet (4478 meters). This is one of the highest and dangerous mountains in the Alps, and although it is shared by Switzerland and Italy, the top of the Matterhorn dominates Switzerland. This beauty is deadly and did not submit to climbers for a long time, about 500 people died trying to defeat it.

The fjords of Norway: the scars of ancient glaciers

One of the most amazing natural attractions in Europe is the fjords of Norway. These are unique ancient granite masses, falling almost vertically to the dormant water below. The impressive landscapes of Western Norway are "scars" left over several (!) ice ages. The best way to see the fjords is on a river cruise, which departs daily from Bergen during the season. From Nærøyfjord to Magdalenafjord, from Lysefjord to Hardangerfjord, glaciers and waterfalls are a breathtaking sight!

And, of course, don't forget the famous Trolltunga (Trolltunga), a long rock outcropping that hovered (at 700 meters) above Lake Ringedalsvatn. Daredevils love to pose on it.

Spanish park Cabo de Gata Nijar: the realm of birds

But you, perhaps, do not even guess about this natural landmark of Europe. In vain, because the Cabo de Gata Nijar Park, located in southern Spain (province of Almeria), is one of the most picturesque reserves of the Old World. Home to thousands of birds (including graceful flamingos, amazing purple herons, proud eagles) and a rugged coastline, this place is delightful. Everything is here: beauty sand dunes, volcanic formations, reefs protruding from under the water ( undersea world also impressive) hidden beaches, rock pyramids.

Montenegrin Durmitor: a mosaic of mountain peaks

Montenegro is worth visiting at least for the sake of the park natural wonders Durmitor - you will get tired of shooting local landscapes! Almost two dozen crystal glacial lakes, a mosaic of mountain peaks, forest thickets, the most deep gorges on the continent - Durmitor is amazing. This is one of the oldest reserves in Eastern Europe, formed almost immediately after World War II. In 1980, it became part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Among the numerous treasures of the park, the canyon of the Tara River stands out, stretching for 80 km and reaching a depth of 1300 meters. Passed through Tara photogenic bridge cutting through a wooded plain.

Necklace of Plitvice Lakes: the pride of Croatia

But Croatia is famous for another national park that receives more than a million visitors a year. How disappointed they must be when they learn that you can't swim in the local lakes! Otherwise, the reservoirs simply would not have been preserved in their splendor. The park is named after them - Plitvice Lakes.

This is a series of 16 cascading lakes in the karst mountains of Croatia, connected together, as if gems in an intricate necklace. Each transition is a new shade of blue and green, from sky blue to deep emerald green. Waterfalls, merrily chirping streams, lush vegetation along the banks - you can walk endlessly in the park.

Austrian Eisriesenwelt: the world of ice giants

In north-central Austria, there is an underground natural "crystal" palace, Eisriesenwelt (which means "world of ice giants" in German). This is the most appropriate name for the truly otherworldly caves, the entrance to which was discovered by a resident of Salzburg in the late 1800s.

Eisriesenwelt - the largest ice caves with a depth of more than 400 meters and a length of 42 km, the ice in which never melts. Now laid here cable car, excursions to this natural landmark of Europe are held from May to October (avalanches are possible in winter). By the way, the cave was known to local hunters since ancient times, superstitious people believed that it was an icy entrance to the Underworld.

The Black Forest: inspiration for storytellers

If you are planning to explore Baden-Württemberg in Germany, stock up on big amount breadcrumbs: like Hansel and Gretel, it will be difficult for you to navigate in a mountainous wooded area. The Black Forest (Black Forest) is an impressive world, a special realm of diverse fauna and flora. It is cut by a network of rivers, even their names are similar to the names of trolls (Kinzig, Enz, Neckar, Murg, Wiese, Nagold, Rench).

The Black Forest region - more than 7 thousand square kilometers of pines, firs, hills, mini-waterfalls, glades covered with outlandish forest flowers. These fantastic places evoke thoughts of evil witches hiding in the thicket. However hiking trails it's safe here, so we joked about the breadcrumbs!

Santorini: "fragments" of Atlantis?

The Greek island of Santorini, an expensive resort, is associated with pretty white houses, temples with blue domes, narrow streets, twined with red flowers (mostly bougainvillea), stairs descending to the sea.

But, first of all, Santorini is an amazing natural landmark of Europe and Greece. According to myths, the companion of Jason (who stole the Golden Fleece) received a handful of earth as a gift from Triton, but dropped it into the waves Aegean Sea. An island emerged from a lump of earth. Another legend says that this place was Atlantis. In fact, everything is much simpler: Santorini was once an island of land with a volcano in the center, which woke up about 3500 years ago. What was once an almost perfectly shaped island has become a loop of shards and wild beaches.

Greek cave Melissani: grotto of a nymph in love

Our top of the most beautiful natural attractions in Europe is completed by another Greek curiosity - the Melissani Cave. This miracle is safely hidden on the island of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea. Guides take tourists on boats through 3500-meter underground passages to find themselves in the lake-cave Melissani. The water here is so clear that it seems like boats are floating in the air. The attraction got its name in honor of the nymph Melissa. This cave was the sanctuary of the god Pan, and according to legend, Melissa killed herself in an underground reservoir because of her unrequited love for Pan. In the center of the cave there is a wide window through which the sky is visible: part of the vault hanging over the lake collapsed several thousand years ago.

The name "Europe" comes from the Assyrian "erebus" - "west", which in Greek sounds like "Europe". So in Ancient Greece the lands lying to the west of the Aegean Sea were called. According to the myth, Europa was the name of the daughter of the Phoenician king.

Fascinated by her beauty, Zeus the Thunderer turned into a meek bull and bowed to the girl, offering her a ride. Europa climbed onto the back of an affectionate animal, but suddenly the bull rushed to the sea. He sailed to the island of Crete, where he took the form of a beautiful young man, and became the husband of Europe. The "father of history" Herodotus connects this legend with the daughter of the Phoenician king, who was kidnapped by Cretan merchants. A part of the Western Mediterranean was named after Europe, and then the western part of the major continent planets - Eurasia.

Today Europe is a common home for 50 independent states. The area of ​​Europe (10.5 million km²) covers only 2% of the globe and about 6.8% of its land, but 830 million people live in this small area, and 70 different peoples develop their culture. Europe is washed by the waters of the Atlantic and North arctic oceans and their seas. Climatic zones create an amazing variety of natural landscapes: the silence of the Arctic deserts, severe beauty fjords, the majesty of the mountains and the radiance of the glaciers of the Alps, the fabulous jungle of forests, azure warm seas and endless steppes strewn with flowers.

The great rivers sung by poets - the Volga, Danube, Dnieper, Rhine, Elbe - give a unique picturesque landscape. They enjoy universal love mineral springs Europe, rest and treatment "on the waters", whether it be the bourgeois resort of Baden-Baden, respectable Karlovy Vary or sanatoriums of the Cavminvod.

Europe is a hotbed of centuries-old traditions

Europe is a single, but contradictory space, where the most important stages of world history are imprinted - from the emergence of Roman and Hellenic (Greek) civilizations to the fall of Nazi Germany.

European powers conquered the whole world by creating colonial empires. Europe is rightfully considered a "hotbed of high culture": democracy, Western Christianity, the Italian Renaissance and humanism were born here. Not by chance European part the continent of Eurasia was called the "Old World", this name contains deep meaning. Having survived all the horrors of the Inquisition, executions, murders of monarchs, epidemics and terrible wars, Europe still remained a beauty. The rich historical past is reflected in the architecture of European countries, where Roman ruins, medieval castles And gothic cathedrals peacefully coexist with luxurious baroque palaces and steel skyscrapers.

Russia is a country of majestic nature and ancient Russian architecture

The expanses of Russia stretched from the Arctic steppes in the north to the Black Sea subtropics. Being largest country in the world, Russian Federation occupies 12.65% of the land inhabited by humans.

Italy - a country of Mediterranean beauties and cultural masterpieces

“Whoever was in Italy will say goodbye to other lands. Whoever was in heaven will not want to go to earth, ”N.V. Gogol wrote about his beloved country, in which he lived for more than one year.

Spain is a country of eternal celebration, bullfighting and flamenco

In Spain, the atmosphere of an eternal holiday reigns. Incendiary flamenco dances, bullfights with formidable bulls and fearless bullfighters, midday bliss of siesta, fragrant paella and sparkling sangria from wine with fruits create a unique palette of Spanish reality.

Germany - Alpine fairy tale

The nature of Germany is very diverse: the sandy wastelands of Pomerania and Schleswig are adjacent to the coasts of the North and Baltic Seas, and the snow-capped Alps sunny valley Rhine, famous for its wines.

France is a country of contrasts, ancient castles and vineyards

France boasts access to both the North and the Mediterranean Seas, and most importantly, its geographical compactness. Just 2 hours drive from Paris - and the tourist can swim on the beaches of Normandy, enjoy fresh oysters and apple cider.

Great Britain - the charm of foggy Albion

Ancient Romans conquering overseas lands, got to distant England (in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bmodern Dover) and were amazed by its dazzling white rocks. According to the color of the rocks, the Romans gave the name to the country "Albion", which means "white".

The Republic of Belarus is an ancient Slavic country with protected forests and picturesque lakes

Only 1 hour 20 minutes on the plane from Moscow, and the tourist arrives in Belarus. For such a trip, you do not need to apply for visas or learn foreign languages, while in the Republic of Belarus you can have a good time in nature, visit sights and improve your health in sanatoriums.

Poland is a country of Baltic beaches, picturesque lakes and ancient cities

Tourist Poland, which has become fashionable among the Germans, remains little explored by guests from Russia. As part of excursion tour in Poland, Russians visit only Krakow and Warsaw, although this country can offer many interesting routes.

Ukraine is a close, hospitable, sunny and inexpensive country

More than 50 sanatoriums, boarding houses and hotels in Ukrainian Truskavets offer effective treatment. Truskavets salt "Barbara", extracted from highly mineralized brine, is a worthy analogue of the famous Karlo-Vary salt.

Türkiye - eastern country-fairy tale

At the end of the 20th century mediterranean resorts Turkey has become an "all-Russian health resort". The Turkish Riviera in the mind of a tourist is associated with endless beaches, a kaleidoscope of entertainment and inexpensive vacation on the system "all inclusive".

Portugal - sunny embankment of the European region

Portugal is not a large country, uniting, nevertheless, on its territory a rich historical heritage And a large number of attractions.

Ireland - the emerald isle at the edge of Europe

If a tourist has ever dreamed of being in a fairy tale, then he has a direct road to Ireland. No wonder this country is called the "Emerald Isle", there are all shades of green here: green pastures, green trees entwined with ivy, and the same green ivy on the walls medieval castles, lost in the thick of forests, where, according to legend, fabulous elves and trolls live.

Norway - Land of the Midnight Sun

The main wealth of Norway is its nature. Fruit trees grow in the south of the country, moss and dwarf shrubs grow in the north, and picturesque fjords encircle the coast. Mountains covered with forests and valleys treated with glaciers create a unique flavor of the northern kingdom.

Estonia - a small Baltic country for a grandiose vacation

In search of medieval castles, paradise islands and SPA-rest it is not necessary to go to distant countries. Only 1 hour 45 minutes from Moscow by plane or a little less than 8 hours by bus from St. Petersburg, and the traveler arrives in Estonia.

Croatia - a necklace of 1000 green islands

The thousand-kilometer coast of Croatia is replete with bays, rocks and pine trees rising to the very edge of the water. It is no coincidence that since ancient times, Roman patricians built villas in Croatia, and in the 20th century Yugoslav politicians chose these resorts.

Belgium is a small country and a big treasure trove

Belgium - small state in Western Europe, which can be crossed in any direction in just a couple of hours. Tem more surprising fact, how many interesting things this miniature country can offer its guests.

Catacombs of Paris

Europe is a great place for tourism and travel. She is often referred to as an old woman. And this is not without charm and meaning, because she survived many wars, political intrigues, epidemics and became what we can see her now.

Great history, beautiful nature, huge cultural heritage, versatility are manifested in the famous sights of Europe, attract with the stained-glass windows of cathedrals, lure you to the ski slopes and museums.

Holidays in Europe are diversity, mysteries, beauty ... old light was and remains one of the most beloved and visited places for tourists. After all, not a single photo can convey all the charm and charm that you experience when looking live at the world famous monuments of Europe. Therefore, it is best to take a trip and see everything with your own eyes, walking along historical places. What to see in Europe?

Famous sights of Europe

Museum of the Human Body, Netherlands

Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica

For centuries, European countries have been in contact with each other, thus becoming closely linked economically and historically. However, each state cherishes its traditions and peculiarities. Considering and comparing sights of Europe, you can easily catch the differences in the culture of these countries.

At the same time, some of the sights of Europe have turned into legends, which many travelers dream of touching. To such famous places can be attributed to, london, Reichstag And Brandenburg Gate Berlin.

Every European city has its own unique and historical significant places. Lovers of mysticism should also visit Romania, sung by writer Bram Stoker as Dracula's castle, and those planning a trip to should not deny themselves the pleasure of taking a gondola ride along its narrow canal streets.

Megaliths of Stonehenge

Venice

The stone mystery in England - - tests the strength of the best minds of scientists and amazes with its unimaginable grandeur. During the construction, it took so much titanic effort! For what and why? The mystery of goals and motives attracts and fascinates. And this attracts many tourists who want to get in touch with the unknown.

In order to choose the most interesting route, you need to decide in advance which sights of Europe you are most interested in, and which of them would you like to visit first. After all, there are so many of them, and each of them deserves special attention. And to have time to see them all, it will take more than one year for this.

Architectural monuments of Europe

Temple of the Parthenon on the Athenian Acropolis

Many European monuments of architecture have already become calling card one state or another. Seeing, we immediately remember about sunny Italy, and sung by Victor Hugo has long been the personification of Paris and France as a whole. Everyone knows that Europe is famous for its rather free morals, and this can be seen even in architecture. What is worth only pissing boy sculpture in Belgium.

Monasteries of Meteora

Looking at the guidebook, eyes run from huge selection how complex and different are the architectural monuments of Europe. It's worth just looking at Coliseum in or on Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, ​​to be amazed to the core by the skill of architects and builders, who not only brought such gigantic projects to life, but also made them immortal.

Greece is rich in architectural heritage preserved from the time of ancient Hellas, of which the Athenian is the most prominent representative, as well as world-famous religious sites such as monasteries and monasteries.

Holy Mount Athos

Traveling around Europe, you can get acquainted with the gloomy and harsh Middle Ages, imbued with its unusual atmosphere. And they will help you with this ancient palaces, castles, fortresses and, of course, monasteries. In old Europe, you can visit castles that are inhabited not only by tourists and ghosts, but also by real crowned persons, for example, in Spain, Buckingham Palace or Windsor castle In Great Britain.

Palace and fortress of the Alhambra

Many castles still look impregnable fortresses. The walls of many of them remember the times of the ancient kings and knights who lived there. Their high strong walls and magnificent interior decoration attract tourists and seem to invite them to plunge into the atmosphere of that distant time.

London is especially popular, as well as the palace and fortresses in Spanish Granada and Scotland, the Finnish fortress and many others. There are also many fortresses in Germany, France and Austria. For example, there is a castle in the south of Germany, where the Kaiser used to live. This majestic castle stands on the border with Austria, where another crown of German architecture is located nearby - the castle. French castles also look very impressive, and bright examples of this are locks and . And when visiting, do not forget to admire Castel Sant'Angelo, which has collected a large collection of paintings.

Cultural sights of Europe

Monastery-fortress Mont-Saint-Michel

Europe will meet you with a large number of museums, from the most famous: British museum, Parisian; to the most unusual Devils Museum in Kaunas, Flood Museum in Holland, in the Czech Republic, the Dutch and many other wonderful and original museums.

Castle of Carcassonne

Probably everyone knows that the main character is . It was presented to the Americans by the French, who left themselves 2 more of the same copies. So if you do not have the opportunity to travel to the USA, then you can get out at least in Paris, where the famous lady with a torch stands on the banks of the Seine and in the Luxembourg Gardens. Europe has a huge number of architectural sights, and you need to have time to see them as much as possible.

Europe will meet the inquisitive traveler with a lot of entertainment and amazing cultural events. lovers extreme sports can tickle their nerves with a bloody spectacle at the match "" - historical football, reminiscent of a gladiator fight and held in Italian. Admirers of costume performances and carnivals are waiting for mummers and devils at festivals and in the Macedonian city.

Krampus Night Carnival, Austria

However, European countries are famous not only for cognitive recreation. In addition to historical sights, you can find interesting places with a warm atmosphere and wonderful nature. Southern Europe will delight you with gentle waters mediterranean sea, mild climate, as well as various medical resorts.

Carnival in Vevcani, Macedonia

In the northern part of Europe all lovers beautiful nature, aquatic species sports, fishing will find best places For active rest: majestic mountains, secluded coves, deep canyons, bays and fjords, wooded plains, thousands of lakes with emerald water.

Despite some historical and cultural commonality, each European country, of course, has its own symbols, charm, sights, and a special atmosphere. Europe is completely un-old woman interesting and flirtatious. Every tourist and traveler will find a holiday in Europe to their liking and possibilities.

In more detail with the sights of Europe, which are divided by countries for ease of navigation, you can find the links below by clicking on the flag of the desired country.

Sights of Western Europe

Austria

Belgium

Great Britain

Germany

Ireland

Liechtenstein

Luxembourg

Netherlands

France

Switzerland

Sights of Eastern Europe

Belarus

Bulgaria

Hungary

Moldova

Poland

Russia

Romania

Slovakia

Ukraine

Czech

Abkhazia

Sights of the countries of Northern Europe

Denmark

Iceland

Norway

Latvia

Lithuania

Finland

Sweden

Estonia

Sights of the countries of Southern Europe

Albania

Andorra

Bosnia

Vatican