Europe

As a self-proclaimed off-the-beaten-path traveler, Paris was never high up on my list of places to visit.

Somewhere in the province of Cádiz, a whole town just melts into the rock. Streets dip beneath huge stone overhangs.

Switzerland is one great big picture postcard. From border to border, you’ll find gorgeous rugged mountain views punctuated with picturesque villages hugging valley floors.

Set amid the glittering waters of the Adriatic Sea, this sun-soaked island is known for its stunning coastline and relaxed Mediterranean charm.

With many different sides to it, Romania is just as much rolling forest-clad hills and picturesque mountains as it is beautiful medieval towns, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking castles.

Set on Spain’s southeast coast, the city of Valencia may not be as visited as Spain’s coastal resorts – or cities like Madrid and Barcelona – but there isn’t any good reason for that.

Often overlooked by international travelers, this vibrant Eastern European capital offers a fascinating mix of grand architecture, historic landmarks, and lively urban culture.

Alpine lakes, elegant cities, and mountain-backed villages make this one of Italy’s most varied and rewarding regions to explore.

Ancient hill towns, rugged landscapes, and centuries of layered history make this one of southern Italy’s most underrated regions.

A fantastic city to visit, Vienna is the cultural center of Austria and as such it has an amazing range of museums for visitors to revel in.

The northernmost capital in the world, Reykjavik is tucked away in the southwest of Iceland, not far from lots of incredible geysers, waterfalls and volcanoes.

Athens is a sprawling city established among seven historic hills and surrounded by remarkable mountains.

Paris, Rome, and Barcelona absorbed your first European trip and did their job well.

Laghi – that’s lakes in Italian – have been drawing tourists since the heyday of the Roman Empire. They still are.

Snow-capped peaks, church steeples, and pastel-colored houses set against alpine backdrops create some of the most picturesque scenery in Europe.