Old buildings along river

Western Europe Travel

The Sights, the Sounds, the Beer!

Austria

The birthplace of Mozart and the Von Trapp family, Austria has a rich and varied musical history. Vienna’s Opera House is the grandest in the world, and in summer the streets burst with music festivals. Over-the-top baroque architecture, decadent desserts and robust beer make this a fascinating country to tour.

Belgium

Famous for its beer and the fountain of the little boy relieving himself (dubbed Manneken Pis), Belgium belies its serious reputation. Unseen dressers regularly put clothes on Brussels’ most well-known landmark, and a group of aged nuns absconded with the funds from Bruges’ normally placid and picturesque convent. Bursting with art, architecture, divine food and history, Belgium is worth exploring.

France

The French countryside is alive with sights and smells – purple fields of lavender, miles of vineyards heavy with the world’s most coveted grapes and high-cliffed shores damp with sea mist. Contrasting the tranquil landscapes, Paris vibrates with high-energy urban life. Fine dining, world-class museums and renowned landmarks are enough to make anyone fall in love with The City of Lights.

Advertisement

Germany

With the Black Forest and Bavarian castles that inspired Walt Disney, parts of Germany seem straight from a fairy tale. The picturesque Mosel Valley and winding rivers sharply contrast the industrial cities in the North. No matter where you go in Germany, expect dark bread and savory meats, washed down with a stein of golden beer.

You May Also Like:
Related Search Topics (Ads)

Netherlands

Only the landscape is flat in the Netherlands. From the vibrant colors of Van Gogh and brilliant blue Delft pottery to the meandering canals and rivers of Heineken, there’s plenty to do and see. Bicyclists, art lovers and cheese connoisseurs will find every inch of this tiny country has something to offer beyond the cliché of windmills, tulips and dams.

Switzerland

“Pretty as a postcard” doesn’t begin to describe Switzerland. Pristine lakes resting at the foot of snowcapped mountains, charming chalets sitting amidst a field of wildflowers and blue skies dotted with clouds are not just for tourists. Not only is Switzerland clean and efficiently run, it lives up to its promotional photos. With all the hiking trails and outdoor activities, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to work off any milk chocolate you happen to sample along the way.

Staff Writer

Advertisement