Europe is a continent that is rich in culture and history, and this is reflected in the wide variety of festivals that take place throughout the year. Whether you are interested in music, food, or cultural events, there is something for everyone in Europe’s festival scene. In this article, we will explore the top European festivals that you can’t miss in 2023.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is one of the largest arts festivals in the world and takes place in the Scottish capital every August. The festival is known for its wide variety of performances, including comedy, theater, dance, and music, and attracts performers and visitors from all over the world. The festival has a unique atmosphere, with street performers and pop-up events taking place throughout the city.

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a world-famous beer festival that takes place in Munich, Germany, every year in September and October. The festival is a celebration of Bavarian culture and tradition and attracts millions of visitors every year. Visitors can enjoy traditional German food and beer, live music, and carnival rides.

La Tomatina

La Tomatina is an annual festival that takes place in the town of Buñol, Spain, on the last Wednesday of August. The festival is a massive tomato fight, where participants throw ripe tomatoes at each other in the streets. The festival attracts thousands of visitors every year and is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Venice Carnival

The Venice Carnival is an annual festival that takes place in the Italian city of Venice. The festival is known for its elaborate masks and costumes and dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can enjoy street performances, live music, and traditional Italian food and wine.

Dubrovnik Summer Festival

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is an annual festival that takes place in Dubrovnik, Croatia, from mid-July to mid-August. The festival features a wide range of cultural events, including theater, dance, classical music, and opera performances. The festival’s main venue is the historic Old Town of Dubrovnik, which adds to the festival’s unique atmosphere.

During the festival, visitors can enjoy performances by world-renowned artists in stunning open-air venues, such as the Rector’s Palace, the City Walls, and the Lovrjenac Fort. The festival also features a variety of food and wine events, as well as exhibitions of local art and crafts.

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Croatia in the summer months. With its stunning scenery and rich cultural offerings, this festival is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who attends.

Running of the Bulls

The Running of the Bulls is an annual festival that takes place in Pamplona, Spain, in July. The festival is a part of the San Fermin Festival and involves participants running in front of a group of bulls through the streets of the city. The festival has a long history and is a significant cultural event in Spain.

Glastonbury Festival

The Glastonbury Festival is one of the largest music festivals in the world and takes place in Somerset, England, every year in June. The festival is known for its diverse lineup of music acts and attracts visitors from all over the world. Visitors can camp on-site and enjoy food, drinks, and activities throughout the festival.

Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival is an annual film festival that takes place in Cannes, France, every May. The festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world and attracts some of the biggest names in the film industry. Visitors can enjoy film screenings, red carpet events, and parties throughout the festival.

Carnival of Venice

The Carnival of Venice is a cultural festival that takes place in the Italian city of Venice every year in February. The festival is known for its elaborate masks and costumes and dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can enjoy street performances, live music, and traditional Italian food and wine.

Berlin International Beer Festival

The Berlin International Beer Festival is an annual festival that takes place in Berlin, Germany, every August. The festival is a celebration of beer and attracts visitors from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy traditional German food and beer, live music, and a wide variety of beer-related events and activities.

The Carnival of Binche

The Carnival of Binche is an annual festival that takes place in the Belgian town of Binche. The festival is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its elaborate costumes and traditional Gilles masks. The festival also features parades, drumming, and dancing.

Sziget Festival

The Sziget Festival is a music festival that takes place on the island of Obuda in Budapest, Hungary, every August. The festival is known for its diverse lineup of music acts and attracts visitors from all over the world. Visitors can camp on-site and enjoy food, drinks, and activities throughout the festival.

Festa di San Giovanni

The Festa di San Giovanni is an annual festival that takes place in Florence, Italy, on June 24th. The festival is a celebration of the city’s patron saint, and features a parade, fireworks, and traditional Italian food and wine.

Bayreuth Festival

The Bayreuth Festival is an annual festival that takes place in Bayreuth, Germany, every summer. The festival is a celebration of the music of Richard Wagner and features performances of his operas. The festival attracts visitors from all over the world and has a unique atmosphere.

La Mercè

La Mercè is an annual festival that takes place in Barcelona, Spain, every September. The festival is a celebration of the city’s patron saint and features a wide variety of events, including street performances, live music, and fireworks.

Conclusion

Europe’s festival scene is diverse and vibrant, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are interested in music, food, culture, or history, there is a festival in Europe that will appeal to you. From the Edinburgh Fringe Festival to the La Mercè in Barcelona, these top European festivals are must-see events that you can’t miss in 2023. So why not plan your next European adventure around one of these fantastic festivals and experience the best of European culture and tradition?

Europe is known for its romantic charm, and there’s no shortage of beautiful cities to explore with your significant other. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, there are countless destinations across Europe that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and romance. Here are some of the most romantic cities in Europe that you can visit with your loved one.

1. Paris, France: It’s no surprise that Paris is often referred to as the “City of Love.” This stunning city is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. Couples can stroll along the Seine River and enjoy the stunning view of the city while indulging in some of the best cuisine in the world.

2. Venice, Italy: Venice is a city of love that has captured the hearts of millions of couples over the years. Known for its romantic gondola rides through the canals and narrow streets, this charming Italian city is perfect for those who want to explore a city that’s built on water. You can also enjoy the beautiful architecture of the city, including the famous Piazza San Marco, and the Rialto Bridge.

3. Prague, Czech Republic: Prague is a city that is steeped in history and is perfect for couples who love to explore old-world charm. The city is famous for its stunning Gothic architecture and the Charles Bridge, which is a perfect spot for a romantic walk while enjoying the stunning views of the city. The city’s nightlife is also a great way to spend your evenings while enjoying the Czech beer and local cuisine.

4. Santorini, Greece: Santorini is a Greek island that is famous for its stunning sunsets, beautiful beaches, and picturesque white-washed houses. It’s one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Europe, and for good reason. Couples can relax on the beautiful beaches while enjoying the stunning views of the Aegean Sea or explore the charming villages and the ancient ruins.

5. Vienna, Austria: Vienna is a city that is known for its art, music, and stunning architecture. Couples can explore the beautiful palaces, museums, and galleries while indulging in some of the best coffee and pastries in the world. The city’s parks are perfect for romantic picnics, and you can also enjoy a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Vienna.

6. Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona is a city that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and romance. You can explore the stunning architecture of Antoni Gaudi, including the famous Sagrada Familia, and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the Park Guell. You can also indulge in some of the best seafood and local cuisine, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

7. Bruges, Belgium: Bruges is a medieval city that is famous for its stunning canals, cobbled streets, and charming architecture. Couples can take a romantic boat ride through the canals while enjoying the stunning views of the city or explore the city’s stunning Gothic architecture. The city’s chocolate shops are also a great way to indulge in some sweet treats with your loved one.

8. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Dubrovnik is a city that is famous for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Couples can explore the ancient walls of the city, indulge in some of the best seafood in the world, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife. The city’s beaches are also a great way to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the sea.

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam is a city that is famous for its stunning canals, charming architecture, and vibrant culture. Couples can explore the city’s stunning museums and galleries, indulge in some of the best cheese and wine, and take a romantic boat ride through the canals while enjoying the stunning views of the city. The city’s parks and gardens are also perfect for romantic walks and picnics.

10. Edinburgh, Scotland: Edinburgh is a city that is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and stunning views. Couples can explore the city’s stunning castles and museums, take a romantic walk along the Royal Mile, and indulge in some of the best whiskey in the world. The city’s parks and gardens are also perfect for romantic walks and picnics.

In conclusion, Europe is home to some of the most romantic cities in the world, and these destinations offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and romance. From the charming canals of Venice to the stunning architecture of Prague and the beautiful beaches of Santorini, there’s no shortage of destinations to explore with your significant other. So, whether you’re planning a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, these cities are sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your loved one.

Maps have been an important tool for humans since the beginning of recorded history. They provide a visual representation of the world, helping us to understand the relationships between different places and how they have changed over time. For historians, maps can be an invaluable resource, providing insights into the political, cultural, and economic landscapes of the past. In this article, we will explore the history of Europe through the lens of historical maps, examining how they can help us better understand the continent’s complex and diverse past.

The earliest known maps of Europe date back to ancient Greece, where philosophers such as Anaximander and Hecataeus of Miletus created maps that were primarily symbolic rather than geographically accurate. These early maps were often based on mythology, with the location of mythical creatures and divine figures represented alongside real geographic features such as mountains and rivers. While these maps were not intended to provide accurate geographical information, they nevertheless played an important role in shaping the Greeks’ understanding of their world.

During the Middle Ages, maps became more geographically accurate as cartography developed as a discipline. Maps created during this period tended to be highly stylized and were often used for navigation rather than scholarly study. One of the most famous medieval maps of Europe is the Hereford Mappa Mundi, created in the late 13th century. This map is notable for its ornate decoration and for the way in which it reflects the medieval worldview, with Jerusalem depicted at the center of the map and Europe positioned at the top.

The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in cartography, as scholars sought to create more accurate maps based on empirical data. During this period, maps of Europe became increasingly detailed and accurate, with many of the most famous maps of the period created by the Dutch cartographer Gerardus Mercator. Mercator’s maps, which were first published in the mid-16th century, were notable for their use of the Mercator projection, which allowed for accurate navigation over long distances.

As Europe entered the modern era, maps continued to evolve and become more sophisticated. One of the most important developments during this period was the use of maps to explore and colonize new territories. European explorers such as Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama relied on maps to navigate the oceans and discover new lands. Maps were also used to divide up newly discovered territories, as European powers jostled for control of the New World and other parts of the globe.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, maps continued to play an important role in shaping Europe’s history. Perhaps the most significant development during this period was the emergence of the nation-state, which led to the creation of national boundaries and the reshaping of Europe’s political landscape. Many maps from this period reflect the tensions and conflicts that characterized European politics, including maps depicting the shifting borders of Europe during World War I and World War II.

One of the most famous maps of Europe from this period is the 1919 Treaty of Versailles map, which was created to help carve up Europe in the aftermath of World War I. This map reflected the geopolitical realities of the time, with new nations such as Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia created out of the ashes of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The treaty and its accompanying maps would have far-reaching consequences, helping to set the stage for World War II and the reshaping of Europe’s political landscape.

In recent decades, digital mapping technology has revolutionized the way we think about maps and their potential uses. Today, historians and scholars have access to a wealth of digital mapping resources, including high-resolution satellite imagery and interactive maps that allow for detailed analysis of geographic data. These tools have made it possible to create highly detailed maps of Europe’s past, providing new insights into how the continent has changed over time.

One area where digital mapping technology has been particularly useful is in the study of urbanization. Maps of European cities from different historical periods provide valuable information about how cities have grown and changed over time. For example, maps of London from the 17th century show how the city expanded rapidly in the wake of the Great Fire of 1666, while maps of Paris from the 19th century provide insights into the city’s transformation under the direction of Baron Haussmann.

Another area where historical maps can provide valuable insights is in the study of migration and population movements. By analyzing maps of Europe over time, historians can gain a better understanding of how people have moved around the continent and how this has affected its cultural and political landscape. For example, maps of the Jewish diaspora in Europe can provide insights into the history of Jewish communities on the continent, while maps of migration patterns during the industrial revolution can shed light on the growth of urban centers and the development of new industries.

Finally, historical maps can be valuable tools for understanding the changing geopolitical landscape of Europe over time. Maps of Europe from different periods can provide insights into how different countries and empires interacted with one another, and how this affected the balance of power on the continent. For example, maps of Europe during the Cold War provide a stark illustration of the division between Eastern and Western Europe, while maps of Europe in the aftermath of the fall of the Berlin Wall show how the continent began to come back together.

In conclusion, historical maps of Europe provide valuable insights into the continent’s complex and diverse past. By analyzing maps from different historical periods, historians and scholars can gain a better understanding of how Europe has changed over time and how this has affected its political, cultural, and economic landscape. From ancient maps based on mythology to modern digital maps, the history of Europe can be traced through the evolution of cartography. Whether exploring migration patterns, urbanization, or geopolitical shifts, historical maps are an essential tool for understanding Europe’s past and present.

Traveling solo can be one of the most liberating experiences you can have, and Europe is a great destination for solo travel. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Europe is such a popular destination for travelers of all kinds. But, as with any trip, traveling solo can be daunting. To help you make the most of your solo trip to Europe, we’ve compiled a list of tips that will make your trip more enjoyable, safe, and unforgettable.

1. Plan ahead and do your research

When traveling solo, it’s important to plan ahead and do your research. This means researching the destinations you want to visit, booking your accommodations in advance, and planning your itinerary. Make sure to read up on the culture and customs of the countries you plan to visit, as this will help you to blend in and avoid any cultural faux pas.

2. Pack light

When traveling solo, it’s important to pack light. Not only will this make it easier to move around, but it will also help you to avoid any additional baggage fees. Remember that you will be responsible for carrying all of your luggage, so only pack what you absolutely need.

3. Stay in hostels or budget hotels

Staying in hostels or budget hotels is a great way to save money when traveling solo in Europe. Not only are these types of accommodations cheaper than hotels, but they also offer the opportunity to meet other travelers. Hostels in particular are known for their social atmosphere, and many offer organized activities and tours.

4. Learn some basic phrases

While English is widely spoken in many parts of Europe, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the local language. This will not only make it easier for you to communicate with locals, but it will also show that you respect and appreciate their culture.

5. Stay connected

Staying connected when traveling solo is important for both safety and convenience. Make sure to bring a phone that works in Europe, and consider getting a local SIM card for cheaper rates. You may also want to consider purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device, as many hostels and budget hotels may not offer free Wi-Fi.

6. Stay safe

When traveling solo, it’s important to stay safe. This means being aware of your surroundings, avoiding risky behavior, and keeping your valuables close to you. Make sure to carry a copy of your passport and other important documents with you, and never leave your belongings unattended.

7. Embrace the local culture

One of the best things about traveling solo in Europe is the opportunity to embrace the local culture. Whether it’s trying new foods, attending local festivals, or learning about the history of the destination, immersing yourself in the local culture can make your trip more memorable and rewarding.

8. Be flexible

Traveling solo means that you have the freedom to do what you want, when you want. However, it’s also important to be flexible. Plans can change, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. Being flexible and open to new experiences can make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

9. Take advantage of public transportation

Public transportation is a great way to get around when traveling solo in Europe. It’s generally safe, reliable, and affordable. Consider purchasing a multi-day or multi-destination pass, as this can save you money in the long run.

10. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s asking for directions, recommendations for restaurants or activities, or help with a language barrier, locals are often more than happy to assist solo travelers. Just remember to be polite and respectful, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

In conclusion, traveling solo in Europe can be an incredibly rewarding

Europe is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. With its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that people from all over the globe come to explore this beautiful continent. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best destinations to visit in Europe and provide some helpful tips for traveling on a budget.

One of the most popular cities to visit in Europe is Paris, the capital of France. Known as the City of Love, Paris is famous for its romantic architecture, world-class museums, and chic fashion scene. Must-see attractions in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles. Visitors can also enjoy delicious French cuisine at one of the city’s many bistros and cafes.

Another popular destination in Europe is Rome, the capital of Italy. Known as the Eternal City, Rome is home to some of the world’s most famous ancient landmarks, including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Visitors can also enjoy world-class Italian cuisine and explore the city’s charming cobblestone streets and historic neighborhoods.

For those interested in history and culture, a trip to Athens, Greece is a must. The birthplace of Western civilization, Athens is home to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel perched atop a hill overlooking the city. Visitors can also explore the National Archaeological Museum and the Agora, a marketplace that was the heart of ancient Athens.

For nature lovers, the Swiss Alps offer breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors can ski or snowboard in the winter months, or hike and bike in the summer. The Jungfrau region, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is a popular destination for its stunning views and charming mountain villages.

While Europe is known for its luxury travel experiences, it’s also possible to travel on a budget. One way to save money is by booking accommodations through sites like Airbnb, which offer affordable alternatives to traditional hotels. Another way to save money is by eating at local markets and street vendors, rather than expensive restaurants.

Traveling by train is also a cost-effective way to get around Europe. The Eurail Pass offers unlimited travel on trains in up to 31 European countries, making it easy to explore multiple destinations without breaking the bank. Visitors can also take advantage of budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, which offer low-cost flights between major cities in Europe.

In conclusion, Europe is a wonderful travel destination with something for everyone. From the bustling cities of Paris and Rome to the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps, there are countless places to explore and experiences to be had. With a bit of planning and budgeting, it’s possible to enjoy all that Europe has to offer without breaking the bank.

Eurail Map 2023

We have updated this map for the year 2023.

Here we have an updated map of all the intercontinental railway lines of Europe. 2023 is fast approaching and rail network will not be changing next year so we though we would put this up for those trying to play their European holiday in 2019.

There are a number of ways of getting cheap travel through out Europe and a Eurail pass in one of those. It will get you anywhere in Europe for a one off fee, depending on how long you are travelling for.

Although air fares can be cheap these day, you miss so much when flying. The train lets you experience Europe in a different and more involving way. You travel in the luxury you can afford and even meet people along the way.

Travelling by train around Europe can be a destination in itself, something you can’t say about plane flights.

The Coronavirus is speading faster than the WHO expected. There are new cases popping up everyday and more people are dying as a result. Even countries like Australia that should have been considered relatively safe due to being in the summer season are getting more cases daily. The travel industry has gone into melt down, with a number of airlines being pushed to the wall. Experts believe that COVID-19 will have the same economic affect as the Global Financial Crisis on certain industries. Hold onto your seats people we are in for a bumpy ride.

Coronavirus Outbreak

As of (18th of February 2020) the Coronavirus has infected 73,259 individuals and killed 1,868. The vast majority being from China and of those Chinese most are from Hubei province. As the The humanitarian costs of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continue to rise we will be updating the above map of the World showing all the regions infected. We will also be real time updating the table below as more data comes in on infections and casualties.

Before updating the above map and the table below we confirm numbers with  China CDC (CCDC), Hong Kong Department of Health, Macau Government, Taiwan CDC, European CDC (ECDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and USCDC. We also consult the relevant authorities in Australia (Australia Government Department of Health), and Canada.

The JHU is also doing an outstanding job in tracking COVID-19 around the world. They have a very up to date data in a github repository here which we may switch to if the workload gets to high.

Below we have updated the figures as of March 24th 2020. Italy has taken over China for number of fatalities and Spain is catching up quickly.

Table of Coronavirus Cases around the World

Istanbul once known as Constantinople

People always wonder about the thing that makes Istanbul, the largest city of Turkey one of the world’s famous cities in Europe. Perhaps it is important that such people travel to Istanbul so that they can experience, first-hand, the various cultural centers and other tourist attractions that exist there. You may not be able to understand why this city is also known as the alpha world city unless you make a personal date with it too. This Turkish city, as it is currently known spans a rich history which has been handed down from one generation to the next. It was initially the capital city of the Roma Empire, then Eastern roman (Byzantine) Empire, then the Latin Empire and finally the Ottoman Empire. During each of these empires, they left significant landmarks that shaped the history, culture, politics and economy of Istanbul.

In addition, the fact that Istanbul earned another status in 2010 as a joint European Capital of Culture and the European Capital of Sports in 2012 is an indication of the high esteem that Istanbul enjoys among European cities. When Istanbul’s historic sites entered into the UNESCO World Heritage List, it brought this city to an international stature and therefore it is worth spending your holidays there. When you travel to Istanbul, you will not miss to see older buildings and the historic peninsula which is built on seven hills and surrounded by 22 kilometers of city walls. Tokapi Palace is located on the largest of the seven hills.

People who choose to explore Istanbul and its rich tourist attractions are impressed with its warm summer Mediterranean climate although these climatic conditions are not uniformly distributed throughout Istanbul. There are some parts of the city (northern parts) which have an oceanic climate. If you are the kind of person that is averse to rain during summer, then Istanbul is the most ideal place for your holidays. A number of people might prefer winters probably because they would like to do research or participate in sports. Istanbul could be the most suitable place because it is not only cold and wet during winter but it is also snowy. The good news is that snow cover melts away after a few days and therefore you need not worry if you were only planning to have this new experience for a day or two.

Though autumn and spring seasons are also good because they are mild, you may have to consider twice before deciding to travel there.  It can be wet or severely chilly. Temperatures also tend to be unpredictable. However, climate should not worry you as there are many things that will consume the cold. For instance, the Ottoman and Byzantine architecture will tell the whole story about the different rules by various empires. When you get there, you will be in a position to experience the Roman, Greek and the Genoese forms of architecture which have been able to stand the test of time. Tour farther and you will come across:

• Mosques (the Hagia Sophia and imperial mosques)
• Churches such as the Church of the Saints Sergius and Bacchus, the Stoudios Monastery etc.
• Synagogues
• The Maiden’s (Leander’s) Tower
• The Valens Aqueduct
• The Walls of Constantinople
• The Column of Constantine

Whenever people want to explore or tour a given city, they always ask themselves about the city’s utilities. It is important to note that the government has ensured all people are provided with clean water which is filtered and chlorinated. Most importantly, Istanbul has a well established sewerage disposal system in addition to its water supply system. Are you wondering whether you will be able to watch television or use your laptop? You need not blow off your head with worry because the city has a reliable electricity supply.

Your holidays can be hectic if a given tourist destination has not developed its transportation systems. It is imperative to point out that Istanbul has two international airports: Ataturk International Airport and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport which will ensure that you are shipped to and from Istanbul. In case you prefer sea transport, you could use commuter ferries so that you can have a rare experience of the panoramic views of the sea and surrounding sites. Alternatively, you could consider using the high speed catamaran seabus which connects between the Princes Islands and the city.  Due to its well developed motorways and express highways, a visitor or tourist is able to travel easily without fear of being stuck in the traffic jam indefinitely. There are still many other means of transport that you can use in order to have a feel of Istanbul’s culture, museums and other recreation sites.  It is advisable to select a means of transport that will easily and cost effectively take you where you want to go.

Berlin Map

This map of Berlin shows all the major boroughs and suburbs they are broken up into. When travelling around Berlin make sure you always have a map on you as it can get pretty confusing.

Berlin is one of those iconic European cities. It was destroyed almost down to the last brick in WW2 and was rebuilt in communist minimalist style during the USSR occupation. It has bounced back since the reunification of Germany to become one of the most vibrant and liveable cities of the world.

Berlin’s tragic twentieth century history has done nothing to dampen the populations love of life and  it has become one of the gourmet meccas of the world.

We have added the map above to give you an easy to reference chart of Berlin but we will be adding in a map of the best eating spots in Berlin in the very near future.

Road Map of Europe

So here we have a map of all the major highways in Europe. There are no highway names as the map would not probably fit onto the website. It is just here to give you an idea of what countries are connected by the main road network. If you click on the map above it will expand and you will be able to see a bit better which countries are connected by these highways.

The above map is a much better road map of Europe than the old one.

We have updated the maps and brought it into the 21st century. The old road map was quite frankly a little underwhelming but the new one is much clearer and we have deliberately made it a bigger size so when zoomed in you will get a better idea where you are heading.

We have included the old one below as we know that some people still use it.

Be sure to click on a European country above to get a large image of that country.

Here at Europe map, we now have a Europe Map for 2019.

When travelling through Europe there is one word that everyone should know. That word is beer. Beer originated in Europe and is part of the culture of most of the countries on the continent. Every region will usually have it’s own distinct type of beer. From the dark, chocolaty stouts on the Western Isles to the fruity pilseners of the Eastern Germanic tribes. Even the countries more famous for their wines, like France and Italy probably had some form of meed styled beverage first. The Italian beer Peroni has even gone on to conquer the world’s palate.

While beer might not be to everyone’s taste. If you are a beer drinker? and are going to Europe one thing, we at MapofEurope.com recommend is trying a local beer from every country you visit. you won’t be disappointed.

It is only fair that you take some time off after a busy season at work to re-energize and relax. This could be in the form of a much needed vacation where you get to spend your holidays away from home. This is could be at a tourist destination within your country or even away from your home country that would involve some travel. There are quite a number of cities around the globe that are known for their rich cultural and historical heritage hence are leading tourist destinations. One of these destinations is Brussels which is also the capital of Belgium. Generally Belgium is categorized among the leading tourist destinations in Europe that promises an out of this world experience as you get to explore the various attractions and engage in different relaxing and rewarding activities. Belgium boasts of dynamic cities like Antwerp as well as medieval architecture. Among the interesting places that tourists like to visit while in Belgium is the Royal Museum of Fine Arts that is endowed with a huge collection of painting dating back to the 14^th century. Also notable is the famous Waterloo that saw the defeat of Napoleon by the then Duke of Wellington. This is one of the reasons that tourists come to explore Belgium.

Brussels offers diverse architecture that spans from the medieval age, with the main attraction being the Grand place, a UNESCO world heritage site and the Royal palace. Also notable is the Manneken Pis that is a bronze sculpture cum fountain of a urinating youth. Other notable attractions that prompt tourists to tour Belgium are the Flander battlefields and the Ypres War Memorials. This is mainly because of the link between the Ypres town and the First World War as it holds silent of those who died in the First World War. Besides, those who travel to Brussels get to experience the over three thousand castles. Three hundred of these castles are open to the public. However, it is the Gravensteen castle that is also referred to as Castle of the Counts which is most popular. Another place that you must not fail to visit is Town of Spa that offers relaxing fine waters and the Bruges commonly known as Venice of North because of the bridges and canals. For lovers of chocolate, Brussels offers the best of chocolate with an estimated over two thousand chocolate shops and a production of over 172,000 tons of the same. Children who travel to Brussels as part of their holidays need not to worry about getting bored as there are a number of carnivals and festivals every year. These include the Zinneke parade and the Ommegang festival among others. The other Belgium cities also hold the same for example the Carnival de Blinche that is held in Blinche and the Stavelot that is held in Mid-Lent Carnival.

Brussels is also a great shopping destination for those people who love shopping. The Flea market is famous for not only crockery but also vintage clothes, household items and furniture. Antique lovers can also be sure to find some of the best antiques in Europe in places like Place du Grand Sablon. If you are keen on fashion items you can also be sure to find shoes, accessories and clothes that are fashionable from a range of shops like the Brooklyn Antwerp or even the High and Mighty. Another great shop for shoppers is the Mier. In fact, people who like to go shopping often make Brussels and Belgium in general their tourist destination.

A tour of Brussels will be incomplete without an experience of the Belgium cuisine. In fact, Belgians believe that their food is prepared using French Finesse and served with the German generosity. The Belgian cuisine is famous for not only known for frites and mussels but also endive and waffles. Of important mention is the fact that the seafood and fish are as important as beer that is as popular as the Belgium brewing tradition. Also included in the Belgian cuisine are game birds, meat and potatoes. One of the famous types is the chicory or the Belgian endive. Street foods are also common for instance French fries that are usually served on paper cones alongside mayonnaise and curry sauce. It is believed that besides other attractions, the Belgian cuisine is among the reasons tourists flock into Belgium. There are numerous other places and attractions that cause tourists to travel to Brussels and the large Belgium. Because of the vast nature of the tourist attractions in Brussels, it is wise to research about the attractions and make up your mind on the places that you intend to visit before hand. This is not only good planning purposes but also helpful in managing the finances that you have set a side for your trip.

Amsterdam the northern European Cosmopolitan metropolis

Amsterdam is known not just the capital of Netherlands but also the largest city. This city is endowed with about a hundred kilometres of canals, one thousand five hundred bridges and ninety islands that earned it the name Venice of the North. Amsterdam which is in the North Holland province is thus an excellent tourist and holidays destination especially for those people who would like to experience ancient history. In fact, it is among the most popular destinations for tourists in the larger Europe as it receives a huge number of visitors, estimated at 4.6 million, drawn from different parts of the world every year. There are numerous attractions that Amsterdam has to offer ranging from the historic canals to museums and the coffee shops. Also notable is the Amsterdam Stock Exchange which is the world’s oldest.

Some interesting information that visitors who tour Amsterdam appreciate is that the canals did not just happen but they were consciously planned for in the course of planning for the city at a time when the rate of immigration was too high. The planning mainly based on the canals concentric four half circles whose ends emerged at IJ bay. Three of these canals were mainly directed towards residential development. Ultimately though the canals were dedicated to ensuring defence, transport as well as water management. The canals offer scenic views into the beauty of Amsterdam thereby encouraging visitors to explore the city. The canals have since been included in the UNESCO world heritage list.

The other attractions that visitors and tourists get to experience while in Amsterdam include the numerous museums that are home to years of history. In fact, a visit to the museums is considered to be one of the best ways of reliving the history of Netherlands. One of the important museums that tourists must not fail to explore is Rijksmuseum that having been created towards the end of the 19^th century. This museum which is also Netherland’s national museum is mainly dedicated crafts, arts as well as history. This is evident in the large collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings as well as the considerable Asian art collection. Originally founded in The Hague in 1800 with the aim of exhibiting Dutch Stadtholders collection, the museum was later to move to Amsterdam under the orders of king Louis Bonaparte. Visitors who travel to Amsterdam may also tour the other museums that include the Stedelijk museum whose specialty is modern art, Van Gogh museum that holds a lot of Vincent Van Gogh’s works and Rembrandt house museum among numerous others museums.

Besides museums, Amsterdam also offers a perfect environment for holidays as it houses De Wallen, an area that is set aside of prostitution that is legalized in its red light district. In fact, the red light district has become popular among tourists and has a well knit alleys and roads network that are rented out. Other attractions in Amsterdam include parks that are very common among people who not only want to experience Amsterdam but also want to enjoy a great family moment at picnics. The parks offer a serene environment that is characterized by water fountains, open fresh air as well as the sun. Additionally, depending on the time of the year that you will travel to Amsterdam, you may engage in festivals like the Qeens’ or Koninginnedag day that have music concerts organized, opera, children’s games among other activities.

In order to ensure that your experience in Amsterdam is worth remembering, you will need to be aware of the best time of the year to travel. For instance in order to have the best of the canals, you will need to be in Amsterdam in the months between April and October during maritime climate. However, the high season runs from April all the way to December while October and November and also January to March are low seasons for tourists. Accommodation is not a matter of concern as there are numerous hotels of different calibres which you can check in. there are also hostels as well as camping sites. Amsterdam is also a great city for shopping as it is dotted with numerous department stores as well as specialty shops. The Cornelis and Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat are streets that are usually busy with shoppers. Amsterdam is also home to fashion brands such as G-star, Blue Blood, Gsus as well as Iris van Herpen among others. In fact, it also houses a garment centre at the World Fashion Centre with most of the buildings that were previously used as brothels within the red light district being turned into ateliers for upcoming fashion designers. In conclusion, a trip to Amsterdam for holidays or even as a tourist promises a lot of fun and insight into the history of the city.