Europe - Explore

Two diners occupy a table near the Colosseum at sunset

Rick Steves' Comforting Tip For Stress-Free Restaurant Ordering While In Europe

By Robert Isenberg 7 months ago

Ordering food in a foreign country can be stressful. With different languages and cultures, how do you get it right? Luckily, Rick Steves has some advice.

Plane at Traigh Mhor beach, Isle of Barra, Scotland

Scotland's Unique Beach Doubles As The World's Only Airport That Lands Planes On The Sand

By Ryan Cashman 7 months ago

This underrated and unique beach in Scotland is not only a beautiful, sandy destination but also operates as a small airport. Here's why you should go.

Hadrian's Wall on top of a high ridge with the setting sun in the distance

Rick Steves Says You Should Visit His Least Favorite Region In The UK For One Important Site

By Felix Gott 7 months ago

European travel expert Rick Steves encourages travelers to visit his least favorite part of the U.K., if only for one particular part of the region.

The sun setting over the skyline of Sheffield city with a meadow of flowers in the foreground

One Of Europe's Greenest Cities Is An Overlooked Gem With The Perfect Amount Of Urban Charm

By Felix Gott 7 months ago

This beautiful city in the U.K. claims to have more trees than people but it also is the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Here's why.

Reasons Rick Steves Says Train Travel In Europe Might Be Better Than Driving

By Ryan Cashman 7 months ago

Train, plane, or car? That is the question for most travelers. In Europe, Rick Steves argues train travel is even better than driving. Here's why.

An Irish Village With Thatched Cottages Offers Horseback Rides Along Serene Lakes

By Ryan Cashman 7 months ago

This charming Irish village offers a throwback window into the past, all with the ability to explore the area on horseback and connect with movie history.

Why Food Is Better And Cheaper In Europe Vs The United States

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 7 months ago

Ever noticed that food feels most affordable and higher quality than back home? You're not alone, and here's what contributes to the difference.

View between daisies of the village of Vejer de Frontera

This Spanish Town With Castle Walls And Fountains Feels Like Stepping Into A Storybook

By Felix Gott 7 months ago

Many dream of being able to step into their favorite storybook world, and this Spanish town in some ways comes close to realizing that fantasy.

Aerial view of Paris overlooking the Eiffel Tower

Immerse Yourself In French Culture With Rick Steves' Humble Approach To 'Finicky' Locals

By Felix Gott 7 months ago

France is one of Rick Steves' favorite destinations, but navigating its proud, sometimes "finicky" locals takes some getting used to. Here's what he suggests.

idyllic Tuscan landscape during sunrise,

The 12 Oldest Villas You Can Stay At In Italy

By Ian Jackson 7 months ago

If you're looking to stay in a historic building while vacationing in Europe, consider an Italian villa for a luxurious stay on a well-preserved property.

The Northern End Of Ireland Boasts A Breathtaking Bay Eerily Known As 'Murder Hole Beach'

By Ryan Cashman 7 months ago

"Murder Hole Beach" may not sound like a place you want to visit, but beyond its intimidating moniker, this Irish bay offers a breathtaking experience.

The beach in front of Argeles-sur-Mer with the Pyrenees mountains in the background

France's Camping Capital Is A Little-Known Town On The Breathtaking Mediterranean Coast

By Felix Gott 7 months ago

Looking for the ultimate camping adventure in France? This town has several campgrounds surrounded by plenty of outdoor activities for every type of camper.

Multilingual place names pop out of a smartphone

Travelers To Europe Say This AI Service Is Way More Natural Sounding Than Google Translate

By Robert Isenberg 7 months ago

A language translation app that's better than Google Translate? That's the word from a recent study. Here's what to know about the German app that beat Google.

a cup of coffee and a receipt on a small dish

Here's What It Means If Your Receipt In France Has 'HT' On It

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 7 months ago

Here are all the basics you need to know about the tax system in France and what you can expect when you see HT and other abbreviations on your bill.

One Of France's Most Breathtaking Swimming Locations Is A Dreamy Azure Lake Surrounded By Limestone

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 7 months ago

Imagine being in France, swimming in a gigantic lake surrounded by quaint villages and limestone boulders. This French lake is breathtaking for watersports.

Rick Steves Shares What It Means If You See A Rentable Bike In Paris With Its Seat Turned Backward

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 7 months ago

Exploring Paris by bike is a fun way to experience the city like a local, but you should know what it means if you see a rentable bike with a backwards seat.

What It Means When You Hear Locals In Ireland Refer To The 'Craic' When Going Out

By Chris Tharp 7 months ago

What does "craic" mean in Ireland? You'll likely hear this Irish word on your next trip to the country. And trust us, you'll want to have a craic that was 90!

Scotland's Underrated Town With Castle Ruins And Art Offers Riverside Charm And Lush Hills

By Ryan Cashman 7 months ago

Add this lesser-visited destination in the Lowlands to your Scotland itinerary for a unique escape perfect for lovers of European art and history.

Do You Really Need An ID To Get Into The Colosseum In Rome?

By Anna Robinson 7 months ago

Here's what you need to know about bringing ID with you to Rome's most famous landmark, the Colosseum, so you can ensure a stress-free visit.

An aerial view of Porto Montenegro in Tivat, Montenegro.

A Sunny European Port Town With Mountain Views And Mega Yachts Feels Like A Hidden Riviera

By Nally Preseault 7 months ago

If you’re looking for a less crowded but equally beautiful mediterranean coast than the French Riviera, be sure to visit this quiet European port town.

A woman is paying for a meal at a French café

Here's What It Means If Your Receipt In France Has 'TTC' On It

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 7 months ago

After doing some shopping in France, you might notice "TTC" printed on your receipt. But what does it mean? Don't worry, we got an explanation for you.

view of coastal city and distant mountains

Albania's Budget-Friendly Tourist Destination Is A Beach Escape With Coastal Hikes

By Jen Ottolino 7 months ago

Visit this stunning and historic port city in Albania for a Mediterranean escape with affordable prices, great beaches, and lively outdoor activities.

A West Ireland Riverside Town With Rainbow Shops And Epic Drives Feels Like Celtic Magic

By Amanda Morgan 8 months ago

Add this charming, historic, and scenic riverside town to your Ireland itinerary. Across the island from Dublin, it's worth the bit of extra effort to visit.

Rick Steves Shares What It Really Means When You 'Chin Flick' In Italy And France

By Ryan Cashman 8 months ago

Here's what you need to know about the European chin flick gesture, when to use it, and how you can avoid misunderstandings when communicating.

One Of Ireland's Must-Try Stouts Famously Rivals Guinness (And You May Even Like It More)

By Camila Pérez B 8 months ago

When visiting Ireland, most travelers want to try a Guinness, however, did you know that Guinness has a rival stout that many visitors like even more?

Rick Steves Says This Aerial Activity Is Perfect For Thrill-Seekers Vacationing In Europe

By Madison Scrivano 8 months ago

For thrill-seekers traveling in Europe, make sure not to miss out on this aerial activity that is sure to get your blood pumping while delivering on views.

morning light on York Minster Cathedral in York

Rick Steves Says This One City Highlights 'Everything That's Great About Britain'

By Shelby Wilkerson 8 months ago

This European destination dazzles with historic attractions, medieval charm, and stunning scenery, making for a refreshing escape away from the city's chaos.