Europe - Explore

The Best World-Class Hotels And Resorts To Book In 2026, According To Research

By Tanya Sharma 3 hours ago

If you're booking a trip in 2026, consider one of these destinations. These hotels are either recently opened as of 2026, or slated to open this year.

Mountain landscape inside Pollino National Park

Italy's Largest National Park Is A Mountain Gem With Scenic Waterfalls And Hiking Trails

By Felix Gott 8 hours ago

This vast, rugged national park in Southern Italy is home to deep gorges and plunging waterfalls along with wildcats, wolves, and Europe's oldest tree.

Bird's-eye view of Alkmaar's church and red-roofed buildings, North Holland

Indulge In The Charming European City Rick Steves Calls 'Holland's Tasty Cheese Capital'

By Ryan Cashman 9 hours ago

According to Rick Steves, this Dutch city is the best place to go to sample the Netherlands' iconic cheeses and learn more about its cheese culture.

Silver art installations on a beach against a blue sky.

This Iconic Region In France Offers Tourists Discounts In Exchange For Bus Ticket Stubs

By Anna Robinson 12 hours ago

You can save money and reduce your carbon footprint on your next visit to France if you go to this iconic region and show them your train or bus stubs.

A young woman with luggage opens the door to her rental accommodation.

What Travelers Should Know About Europe's Short-Term Rental Regulations Before Visiting

By Olaoluwa Akinbayo 1 day ago

Travelers hoping to stay in short-term rentals on their next trip to Europe may face problems because of the strict regulations recently imposed there.

Aerial view of Santuario Madonna Della Corona church on a cliff

This Attraction In Italy Is A Cliffside Sanctuary That Seems To Defy The Laws Of Physics

By Carolyn Hall 2 days ago

Historical attractions can be found all over Europe, but this one in Italy is built into an actual mountain cliff face, truly setting it apart from the pack.

A nail-polished hand using the EES Entry/Exit System.

What Travelers Should Know About Europe's Stricter Rules In Its Most Popular Countries

By Carolyn Hall 3 days ago

While rolling out their new biometric entry system, popular countries in Europe have also tightened security. Here’s what to know about their stricter rules.

Idyllic landscape in the Provence with the small village of Suzette surrounded by vineyards

Rick Steves Says This Scenic Region Of France Has A Lovely Climate & Tons Of Vineyards

By Felix Gott 3 days ago

European travel expert Rick Steves recommends this picturesque wine region in France for its pleasant climate patterns and endless vineyard options.

people celebrating at Newgrange in Ireland

The 5 Most Mysterious Places You Can Visit In Europe

By Amanda Morgan 3 days ago

Explore Europe’s most mysterious destinations, where ancient sites, strange legends, and unanswered questions invite curious travelers from all over.

Incredible French Destinations To Add To Your Winter Bucket List, According To Travelers

By Pavlo Fedykovych 4 days ago

Whether you're a fan of skiing or want to experience the magic of French culture in winter, you're sure to find the perfect winter destination in France.

Rick Steves Thinks This Decadent Chocolate Shop Is A Must-Visit For Foodies In Vienna

By Tosh Bene 5 days ago

While Rick Steves often talks about budget travel, he also knows when to splurge. He says this decadent chocolate shop is a must-visit for foodies in Vienna.

Avoid This Common Scam When Arriving At Airports In Europe

By Tosh Bene 5 days ago

Learn how to spot this misleading airport scam that targets travelers arriving in Europe. It can help you stay alert and start your trip off on the right foot.

An aerial view of tourists visiting a castle and tower in Cinque Terre.

Rick Steves Says This Ancient Castle In Italy's Cinque Terre Is Popular Among Tourists

By Anna Robinson 6 days ago

Rick Steves’ favorite town in Cinque Terre is also home to a charming ancient castle, one that stood guard against pirates in earlier centuries.

This Town Has The Most Strikingly Beautiful Views In Italy's Cinque Terre, Per Rick Steves

By Amanda Morgan 6 days ago

Rick Steves favorite town in Cinque Terre, Italy happens to be Vernazza, but he says that a different village actually boasts even more magnificent views.

the rennaissance style Chateau de Chantilly surrounded by a moat and parkland

This Enchanting Castle In Europe Feels Like Stepping Into A Storybook

By Carolyn Hall 6 days ago

Plan a dreamy day trip from Paris to a fairy-tale French château filled with art, romance, horses, and centuries of history to explore just beyond the city.

This Timeless Croatian Island Town Boasts Medieval Streets And Architectural Treasures

By Tosh Bene 7 days ago

Croatia may not be the most famous country in Europe, but it boasts lots of treats for travelers, including this island town that feels almost out of time.

Two women taking a selfie on a mountain.

Why Rick Steves Cautions Travelers To Avoid Staying Too Long In This Part Of Europe

By Tosh Bene 7 days ago

Rick Steves knows how to get the best value for your travel dollar. That’s why he says tourists should avoid spending too much time in this part of Europe.

The sandstone walls and cobbled streets of Sarlat la Canéda

Rick Steves' Tour Guide's Favorite Town In France 'Ticks All The Boxes' For Travelers

By Carolyn Hall 7 days ago

Rick Steves knows a thing or three about traveling around Europe, as do his tour guides, and one of them absolutely loves this charming French town.

Italian city Tirano with its landmark Basilica Madonna di Tirano, viewed from vineyard over the high hills

One Of Europe's Hidden Gems Is A Scenic Italian Town In The Alps, Full Of Old-World Charm

By Felix Gott 7 days ago

There's an Alpine town in Italy that isn't very famous, apart from for one reason, but it's somewhere that's definitely worth at least a night of your vacation.

Tourists photographing the Alhambra in Granada, Spain

This Magnificent Palace Complex In Spain Is One Of Rick Steves' Favorite Spots In Europe

By Ryan Cashman 8 days ago

European travel expert Rick Steves knows the best places to visit. For a rich cultural and historical experience, check out this palace in Southern Spain.

A huge crowd of tourists in Riva degli Schiavoni, Venice

These Popular Destinations Charge Travelers A Green Fee Tax To Combat Overtourism

By Felix Gott 8 days ago

Traveling to these popular destinations just got more expensive, as efforts to combat the effects of too much tourist traffic have led to new fees.

alpine terrain with turquoise lakes and cloud covered mountain tops scattered with pine trees

This Challenging Hike Through Cloud-Covered French Mountains Offers Magnificent Views

By Carolyn Hall 9 days ago

If you're looking for a breathtaking view on your hiking trip, these iconic French mountains have cloud-covered caps and abundant wildlife to find.

Skyline of Athens with Monastiraki square and Acropolis Hill

Rick Steves Says This Greek District Offers A 'More Intimate Athens' For Tourists

By Felix Gott 9 days ago

Discover this lovely neighborhood of Athens, where history, walkable streets, and local charm offer relief from the city’s usual hustle and bustle.

A man and woman dining outdoors in Europe.

The 3 Words Rick Steves Avoids At All Costs When Picking European Restaurants

By Tosh Bene 11 days ago

Travel expert Rick Steves knows it can be difficult to avoid tourist-trap restaurants while in Europe, so he warns to watch out for these three words.

Tourists Should Avoid This Awkward Etiquette Mistake When Going Out Drinking In Europe

By Anna Robinson 12 days ago

Everywhere you go will have different attitudes toward alcohol, but, in general, Europeans tend to treat drinking in a very respectful way when dining.

These Historic Castles In Europe Add Royal Flair To Your Hotel Experience

By Felix Gott 13 days ago

Europe has many historic castles to explore as a tourist, but what about the castles you can actually "live" inside? Here are Europe's best castle hotels.

A young female traveler feeling sudden stomach problems.

Rick Steves' Best Tips To Help Travelers Deal With Uncomfortable Bathroom Issues In Europe

By Felix Gott 14 days ago

While bathroom discomfort is one of the worst, and most common, problems that can happen to travelers in Europe, Rick Steves has tips for how to handle it.