european heritage trips

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European Heritage & Culture Tours

Join our tours and explore Europe's fascinating heritage and culture! Our selection of guided & independent tours depart from cities like London, Paris, and Amsterdam, taking you to major cultural sites across Europe.

From Roman and Viking remains to ancient monuments such as Stonehenge, spectacular cathedrals, and the tragic modern history of the D-Day landing beaches, there is something for everyone! Take a look at our heritage and culture tours , or contact us to discuss your future European vacation.

Explore our Heritage & Culture tours

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How this works

1. find your dream tour.

Choose from our selection of tours — or discuss the options with our travel specialists.

2. Request your booking

Complete the online process — add extra nights and experiences and combine tours. 

3. Prepare for your journey

Book your flights, receive your travel documents and get ready for an experience of a lifetime.

World Heritage Journeys of Europe

Go deeper into European culture and history and get inspired for your next trip through UNESCO’s World Heritage sites in the European Union.

Together with National Geographic and co-funded by the European Union, the World Heritage Journeys of Europe let you discover the most stunning, mysterious, and beautiful heritage sites in Europe. From the 350 World Heritage Sites across the European Union, we handpicked 34 for you to explore in-depth. Immerse yourself in the places that embody Europe’s ancient history, let yourself flow through romantic moments and legends from the European past, feel like a true royal and visit castles, gardens, and palaces of Europe’s heritage, or go even deeper and find out what life and culture awaits you in the hidden underground depths of Europe.

We encourage you to travel differently, and travel deeper. Start exploring now!

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Supported by the European Union, World Heritage Journeys showcases UNESCO recognised outstanding cultural heritage in a travel platform that promotes sustainable tourism development across Europe.

The World Heritage Journeys of the European Union is a project implemented in partnership with National Geographic, and brings together 34 World Heritage sites through four different thematic itineraries; Royal Europe , Ancient Europe , Underground Europe and Romantic Europe .

Each journey is intended to help travellers develop a greater understanding of  Outstanding Universal Value and cultural heritage at large. Cultural heritage is the primary focus for this initiative, combining both built heritage, with historic and existing intangible cultural heritage expressed through the community’s living cultural values.

By including both iconic and lesser-known sites, these journeys enable people to see Europe’s World Heritage sites from a new and exciting perspective and to 'travel differently, travel deeper' within the European Union.

A travel  web platform has been developed showcasing the different itineraries and giving detailed information on what to discover on the sites and their surroundings, as well as activities and attractions - that could be useful to plan for a trip.

Each of the 34 participating World Heritage sites are committed to the development of sustainable and high-quality experiences that will spur investment in culture and community-centred creative industries. 

Learn more: visitworldheritage.com

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• DESTINATIONS

Discover Europe's crown jewels and hidden gems

Explore Europe's Ancient, Romantic, Royal, and Underground World Heritage

European culture has had a profound impact on human history. Its rich heritage has shaped the modern world in countless ways, and much of it is preserved for everyone to see and experience.

In addition to thousands of national and local heritage sites, over 400 cultural sites across the European Union have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List —from prehistoric cave paintings and ancient amphitheatres to glorious cathedrals and centuries-old agricultural, industrial, and urban landscapes that are still thriving today.

Europe’s World Heritage sites tell epic stories of the past and bolster present-day economies and identities. Strong efforts to conserve these treasures have helped Europe become the world’s most popular global tourism destination. But with tourism growing, it’s important for visitors and locals to use these places sustainably, enjoying their rich cultural heritage without damaging what makes them special.

World Heritage Journeys Europe highlights 34 UNESCO sites across the European Union, some iconic and others less known. These places tell stories of European history and culture through the lens of four heritage themes, or Journeys that illuminate different sides of Europe’s heritage, from the Ancient to the Romantic and the Royal to the Underground world beneath our feet. The website provides insider tips on the best attractions and experiences for travelers to appreciate and support the outstanding universal value of these places.

Co-funded by the European Union, World Heritage Journeys Europe is an initiative by UNESCO, in collaboration with National Geographic and local heritage and tourism managers, to showcase World Heritage destinations across the EU, and help travelers experience these places in ways that highlight and sustain their outstanding values and benefit local communities.

Dive deeply into these amazing places at VisitEUWorldHeritage.com . You’ll find in-depth guides to each UNESCO site, including its history and significance, top attractions, and insider tips on how to best experience its outstanding universal value. Save your favorite sites, attractions, and experiences to your personal itinerary map to plan your epic journey.

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• WORLD HERITAGE SITES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

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Warsaw, Budapest, Vienna & Prague – Honoring the Jewish Heritage

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• 2024 Classic
• 2025 Classic

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Prayer and a Q&A with a Rabbi during exclusive, private access in the Frankel Synagogue in Budapest

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Visits to the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, Umschlagplatz, the Jewish Historical Institute, Nozyk Synagogue and the Museum of the History of Polish Jews (POLIN)

Visit to Plaszów concentration camp in Kraków

Visit to Poland's poignant museum and memorial at Auschwitz-Birkenau

Private piano recital of Chopin music in Warsaw

Walking tour of Budapest's Jewish Quarter; Dohány & Kazinczy synagogues

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

Become immersed in the cultural legacies and poignant history of the Jewish communities of Warsaw, Budapest, Vienna and Prague on this special Jewish heritage tour. Emotionally stirring, historic sites are inextricably linked to their Jewish heritage, offering a chance to learn, in depth, reflect and remember the sacrifices that were made there.

Visit warsaw's holocaust memorials and polin, in warsaw, explore the warsaw ghetto memorial, nozyk synagogue, polin and more.

Before World War II, Poland was once home to the largest Jewish community in Europe, which had thrived for centuries in an environment of religious tolerance. Your time in Poland's capital, Warsaw, includes visits to Holocaust memorials including Nozyk Synagogue, the only one of Warsaw's 400 synagogues to survive the war; the memorial to the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943; the Umschlagplatz (the "taking away place"), the deportation point for thousands of Warsaw's Jewish Holocaust victims; and the internationally-acclaimed POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, built on the site of the Warsaw Ghetto, which immerses visitors in the 1,000-year history of the Jews in Poland through interactive exhibits, reconstructions, and multimedia.

The Plaszów memorial and more

Your travels in kraków include the former schindler factory and the plaszów concentration camp memorial.

In Kraków's industrial district of Zablocie on the right bank of the Wisla River stands the former enameled vessels factory once operated by German industrialist Oskar Schindler, whose efforts to protect the lives of his Jewish workers was portrayed in the film, "Schindler's List." Today the former factory is a branch of the City of Krakow Historical Museum chronicling life in Krakow under German occupation, and includes several exhibits involving the story of Schindler and his workers. After a brief visit here, you'll continue on to pay your respects at the remains of and memorial to victims of Plaszów, the infamous forced labor camp turned concentration camp from which Schindler managed to save more than a thousand Jewish workers.

A poignant visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial

Visit the auschwitz-birkenau memorial outside kraków, and tour of the sites of both infamous camps.

Dating back to 1335, a re-emerging Kazimierz – Kraków's historic Jewish Quarter – thrives anew today with cafés and bistros, antique shops, museums and galleries… despite being nearly destroyed by the Nazis during the Holocaust of World War II. On a guided tour of the district, you'll visit the 15th-century Old Synagogue museum where exhibits showcase the history and traditions of Polish Judaism. Then, journey some 40 miles southwest of Kraków for a poignant visit to the memorial and museum at the former extermination camp complex at Auschwitz-Birkenau – including Blocks 4, 5, 7 and 11 at Auschwitz – followed by a tour of the Birkenau site.

Private luncheon cruise in Prague and Q&A with a Holocaust survivor

A private luncheon cruise on prague's vltava river and a q&a with a holocaust survivor.

For many of Europe's greatest cities, the rivers that flow through them are often their lifeblood and their defining feature. So it is with Prague, ancient capital of the Czech Republic, split by the Vltava River but joined by the historic Charles Bridge (and 17 others!). And there's no better or more unique way to experience the heart of this timeless city than aboard a private luncheon cruise on the Vltava through Prague's Lesser Town and Old Town. Also during your time in Prague, you'll be joined by a Czech concentration camp survivor for a poignant discussion of the Holocaust in wartime Czechoslovakia, followed by a memorable Q & A session.

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

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Hotel bristol, warsaw.

Warsaw, Poland

Hotel Saski

Kraków, Poland

Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest

Budapest, Hungary

Nights 8-10

Hotel Bristol, Vienna

Vienna, Austria

Nights 11-13

Four Seasons Hotel Prague

Prague, Czech Republic

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey to enter Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

The U.S. State Department advises that: "All foreigners seeking entry into the Czech Republic must also carry proof of a medical insurance policy contracted for payment of all costs for hospitalization and medical treatment while in the Czech Republic. According to the Czech Government, if you have a health insurance card or an internationally recognized credit card with health insurance included, it will generally be accepted as proof of insurance to enter the country."

Tauck offers insurance that is considered sufficient for this purpose. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section above on this webpage for further details.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $559  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Luggage Handling and Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally , please contact an embassy or consulate of Poland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The weather in this region of Eastern Europe is temperate and unpredictable. Generally, average high temperatures range from 54 to 75°F (12 to 24°C) from April through June and 60 to 85°F (16 to 29°C) from July through September. Rain falls fairly evenly throughout the year, with the heaviest amounts arriving during the summer. Prague averages 50% more rainfall per year than any of the other cities visited.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The weather in this region of Eastern Europe is temperate and unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.

You will find a hair dryer located in your guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available on request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Eastern Europe:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Gallery European Heritage Sites

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European Heritage Sites include archives, monuments, archeological sites, and places of seminal cultural or political value, from the classic age to the present. Since the label’s inception in 2013, thirty-eight sites have been designated, bringing passages in Europe’s history to the foreground to honor, celebrate, and remember who built Europe, how, and why. They are lessons from the past to guide the future of Europe.

Krapina Neanderthal Site, Croatia

Thanks to eight meters of river sediment preserving an ancient cave, we have a precious legacy of over 900 human and animal bones from the Pleistocene period, 125,000 years ago. The remains of over eighty human beings, as well as cave bears, wolves and other animals, are presented in a manmade replica of the original cave, which was originally excavated in 1899. Interactive exhibits reveal what is known about the prehistoric ancestors of all modern Europeans and the evolution of humankind.

The Heart of Ancient Athens, Greece

Western philosophy, democracy, theatre and music were conceived and developed at the collection of archeological sites that grace the center of Athens. Constructed and used over a period spanning 3,000 years, the designated ruins are of extraordinary architectural and cultural significance. The collection of almost one hundred sites include the Acropolis hill, the Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s library, the Pynx hill, and the Kerameikos cemetery. But think of the people of the time who bequeathed so much to us: Pericles, Phidias, Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides, Hippocrates, Herodotus, Thucydides…and the list goes on.

Archaeological Park Carnuntum, Austria

At Carnuntum you can appreciate much that modern Europe has inherited from the Roman civilization, such as theatre and indoor plumbing! A city of 50,000 inhabitants two millennia ago, it was established on the Danube at the convergence of several ancient trade routes and became the provincial capital of Pannonia. Less than one percent of the site has been excavated, yet you can visit three reconstructed, fully functional buildings, and enjoy theater in the ancient amphitheater during Canuntum’s annual festival.

Leipzig’s Musical Heritage Sites, Germany

Visit the haunts of some of Europe’s most revered composers in Leipzig, where music has been an integral part of its culture for over 800 m 47yrs. Trace the evolution of significant musical periods thanks to the genius of formative composers including Bach, Mendelssohn, Clara and Robert Schumann, Wagner and Grieg Music. The sites on the Musical Heritage Trail include churches, educational institutions, such as Germany’s oldest music conservatory, archives, former homes of musicians, and concert halls.

Abbey of Cluny, France

A prince of Charlemagne’s court exhorted a group of Benedictine monks to be an example of order and right living to other communities, and gave them land at Cluny to do so. The monks succeeded, and the Abbey at Cluny became the spiritual and administrative center of one of the largest monastic networks in European history. As such, it was a hub for learning, art, new ideas and scientific knowledge, and facilitated the sharing of these among its visitors and across borders.

Olomouc Premyslid Castle and Archdiocesan Museum, Czech Republic

The Archdiocesan Museum in the city of Olomouc is the first museum in the Czech Republic to focus on spiritual culture. It is housed in part of a castle from the Premsylid dynasty, and is the site of many important events, including a royal murder in 1306. The museum’s collection includes fine examples of Baroque and Rococo works, a testament to the artistic patronage of Moravian archbishops. The Oloumoc Bishopric collection is second only to the National Gallery in Prague.

Archive of the Crown of Aragon, Barcelona, Spain

The Archive of the Crown of Aragon is a mindboggling collection of medieval books and documents initially established in 1318 by order of James II. This repository chronicles the role that the Crown of Aragon played in the Mediterranean region with documentation pertaining to practically all of Europe and even realms and Emirates beyond. The Archives are now housed in a modern building designed to preserve this extraordinary collection while making it freely available to the public. A digitalization project is underway to expand access even further.

Great Guild Hall, Tallinn, Estonia

The Great Guild of Hanseatic merchants was a powerful trade organization with a vast network across northern Europe in medieval times, and it facilitated both commercial and cultural exchange. The Great Hall that the Guild commissioned in Tallinn, a prime example of Hanseatic architecture, was built in 1410. It has been a scene of international exchange ever since. Nowadays, it houses a modern museum with interactive exhibits that showcase the many links between Estonia and the rest of Europe.

Sagres Promontory, Portugal

At the southwestern-most tip of Portugal is the Sagres Promontory, one of the main launching points for expeditions especially during the Age of Discovery in the 15th century; you can consider that this is where European globalization began. Prince Henry the navigator made it his headquarters for maritime projects that exported European civilization towards Africa, the Atlantic, and across the Mediterranean. Visit the Sagres Promontory to explore archeological remains and monuments and imagine the curiosity and courage of these long-ago explorers and the royalty who backed them.

General Library of the University of Coimbra, Portugal

The groundbreaking General Library of the University of Coimbra has been “public” since it was established in the early 16 th century. Its collection includes a very rare 16 th century Hebrew bible that escaped destruction during the Inquisition; at no time did it ever allow censorship; and it was one of the first libraries to have subject catalogues.  The 18 th century Joanina Library is as beautiful as it was innovative at its inception. The General Library supports exchange between local, national and pan-European students, researchers–and of course, general visitors!

The Imperial Palace, Vienna, Austria

The family that ruled enormous areas of Europe for seven centuries would clearly require a massive domicile in the capital city, and that is what the Imperial Palace was for the Hapsburg Dynasty starting in the 16 th century. Such a vast, multi-ethnic empire encouraged cultural exchange and art collecting. Thus, the immense complex of stately buildings and gardens housed not only the family and government, but fabulous art and artifacts as well. Still the seat of the Austrian Federal President, the Imperial Palace comprises several museums the National Library, and other cultural institutions.

Union of Lublin, Poland

The Union of Lublin was an early forerunner of the European Union: it joined the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania as one entity, its citizens of various ethnic and religious backgrounds coexisting peacefully. The Union remained in some form until the 18 th century. Three monuments commemorate it: The Holy Trinity Chapel, remarkable for its Gothic architecture and blend of Roman Catholic and Orthodox decoration; the church where a mass celebrating the treaty signing was held; and a memorial obelisk in Lithuania Square.

Münster and Osnabrück – Sites of the Peace of Westphalia, Germany

Known as the Peace of Westphalia, the treaties that ended the political and religious conflict known as the Thirty Years’ War (AD 1618-1648) and the Dutch War of Independence against Spain were signed in Münster and Osnabrück. This was a seminal event in the development of the state and of international law. The principles developed then are still in effect and decisively shaped the order of Europe today. Visit the chambers where this peace began and where contemporary organizations continue to work for cross-border cooperation.

The May 3, 1791 Constitution, Warsaw, Poland

The Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, a descendent of the Union of Lublin, adopted the Constitution of May 3 rd , 1791 to ensure more freedom and political equality for its citizens and to introduce a constitutional monarchy. Significantly, it provided for a peaceful transformation of the government and is considered to be one of the first constitutions of its type in Europe. The building where it was adopted is now an archive and holds original printed versions of the 1791 Constitution.

Historic Ensemble of the University of Tartu, Estonia

“A university in the city, a university in the park” was the guiding motto for the Tartu University campus designed in the early 19 th century. It embodies the ideas of the Age of Enlightenment, linking science and learning and reflecting European traditions in education. Originally established in 1632 by the Swedish King Gustav II Adolf, it changed hands between many political powers over time: it celebrates a Swedish, a Russian, and an Estonian birthday! Always a beacon of progressive ideas, it prepares students for the future in a historic environment.

Hambach Castle, Germany

Medieval Hambach Castle became especially important on May 27 th , 1832, when about 30,000 people from Germany, France and Poland convened there to celebrate the end of a period of political repression. Participants spoke out for fundamental rights, political freedoms and equality, tolerance and democracy in Germany and Europe, making the castle a symbol of the struggle for civil liberties. This was the beginning not only of the Hambach Festival, but also of the modern German flag. Today the castle buildings are in constant use for events, concerts, and visits from tourists to Neustadt.

Dohány Street Synagogue Complex, Budapest, Hungary

The Dohány Street Synagogue, built in the 1850’s, is the largest in Europe and in the world. The Spanish-trained architect melded Moorish and Eastern European esthetics in the design. The complex includes the Jewish Museum and Jewish Archives of Hungary, the Heroes’ Temple, in memory of Jewish Hungarian soldiers lost in WWI, and unusually, a cemetery garden, for the victims of the Budapest Ghetto. The complex adjoins the Wallenberg Memorial Park, which has memorials to the Jewish and non-Jewish victims of the Holocaust. The complex symbolizes integration and remembrance.

Fort Cadine, Trento, Italy

Fort Cadine straddles the road to Trento with its iconic archway, one of 80 such defensive fortifications that previously protected major trade routes between Central Europe and the Mediterranean basin. These were built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the late 19 th century in its border area with the Kingdom of Italy.  Fort Cadine now represents all the Trentino fortifications, to remind us of historical divisions, military conflicts and mutable borders and provide a context to better appreciate the value of open borders and free circulation.

Charter of Law of Abolition of the Death Penalty, Lisbon, Portugal

The original Charter of Law of Abolition of the Death Penalty, signed by King D. Luis in 1867, is painstakingly preserved at the National Archives of Torre do Tombo in Lisbon. This is one of the first examples of the permanent suspension of the death penalty being codified in a national legal system. Portugal is considered a pioneer in safeguarding human rights because of this landmark legislation. The document is available online and will eventually be translated into all the European languages.

Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, Budapest, Hungary

Liszt Ferenc (Franz Liszt) founded his eponymous Academy of Music in 1875 and it is as vibrant today as ever. The Academy comprises an international university of musical arts and a concert center which hosts well over 500 concerts per year, the Liszt Ferenc Memorial Museum and Research Centre, the Kodály Institute and the Kodály Museum. It is housed in 1907 building considered to be a masterpiece of the Hungarian Secession. The Academy is a forward-focused amalgamation of tradition and innovation.

Mundaneum, Mons, Belgium

Henri La Fontaine and Paul Otlet shared a vision to facilitate peace through dialogue and knowledge sharing, which required access to ideas. The Mundaneum is a landmark in the intellectual and social fabric of Europe, as it required international cooperation to pursue its purpose of amassing all the information in the world, in any format (all paper media at the time) and classifying it according to their Universal Decimal Classification system. The Mundaneum is a foundations of information science and is considered a precursor of today’s internet search engines.

Peace Palace, The Hague, the Netherlands

Andrew Carnegie founded the Peace Palace, opened in 1913, a living monument to peace through law. The Hague has been associated with the peace process since it hosted the First World Peace Conference in 1899. Since then it has hosted international peace conferences and has become the seat of the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and the Hague Academy of International Law, earning it recognition as the seat of international law.

Javorca Memorial Church and its cultural landscape, Tolmin, Slovenia

Javorca Memorial Church was built in the Julian Alps by soldiers of the Austro-Hungarian army involved in the Isonzo Front in the middle of WWI to honor their fallen. The architect, a soldier, designed it in the Art Nouveau style, with a colorfully painted interior. It is a unique place of contemplation to remember fallen soldiers regardless of nationality or culture. The church and its cultural landscape continue to symbolize the need for reconciliation and the unifying power of collaborative creation and construction.

Residencia de Estudiantes, Madrid, Spain

The Residencia de Estudiantes was established in 1910 and modeled on Oxford and Cambridge to provide a place of learning as much as cross-disciplinary exchange. A pantheon of intellectual and artistic luminaries of the 20 th century spent time here. Although it was destroyed during the Civil War, it has been rebuilt and modernized, serving as a quiet residential base for study, multi-cultural and interdisciplinary exchange, debate, and dialogue. The Residencia de Estudiantes is renowned throughout Europe for encouraging communication and understanding among generations, cultures, and disciplines.

World War I Eastern Front Cemetery No. 123, Łużna – Pustki, Poland

Wartime cemetery No 123 is a sober monument to soldiers lost on the Eastern Front in May of 1915 from the Austro-Hungarian, German, and Russian armies. The battle on this hill, also known as the Verdun of the East, was one of the largest of WWI. Soldiers were laid to rest here regardless of their military, ethnic or religious affiliation. World War I Eastern Front Cemetery No 123 honors these men and is a stark reminder of the futility of war as a way to solve political problems.

Kaunas of 1919-1940, Lithuania

Kaunas was the “temporary capital’ of Lithuania during the interwar period, when the government relocated there from Vilnius, which was occupied. The city population expanded by more than 8.5 times. As such, the city developed into a vibrant, dynamic, modern urban setting that invigorated the country during its independence and nurtured Lithuanian national identity. Many Lithuanians who had studied abroad revitalized the city with new knowledge, ideas and outlooks on their return. The architecture of the period is notable for its synthesis of traditional Lithuanian motifs with interwar modernism.

Camp Westerbork, the Netherlands

Camp Westerbork has a difficult past. Originally for Jews escaping persecution in other European countries, in 1942 it became a transit camp to Nazi extermination and concentration camps. After the war, suspected Nazi collaborators were imprisoned here. The military used it briefly and finally, it sheltered people repatriating or immigrating from former Dutch colonies. The Camp Westerbork memorial site and museum receive thousands of school children and adult visitors annually who learn about crucial topics in Europe’s history: occupation, persecution, migration, decolonization and multiculturalism.

Former Natzweiler concentration camp and its satellite camps, France – Germany

The former Natzweiler Nazi concentration camp and its satellites are located on both banks of the Rhine, which then belonged to the Third Reich and are now in France and Germany. These camps were used primarily for political prisoners and Resistance fighters who provided a critical labor force for the German war machine, although they were treated as entirely expendable non-entities. Establishing the modern-day memorial site and museum required cooperation between countries with very different historical perspectives that now share a vision of teaching and remembrance.

Franja Partisan Hospital, Slovenia

The Franja Hospital, one of many secret WWII hospitals run by Slovenian partisans, treated over 550 wounded people from both the Allied and Axis powers. The ill and wounded were brought by stretcher, at night, on a creek-side path at the bottom of the gorge where the hospital is located. Staffed and supported by doctors from many countries and local volunteers, it was never discovered. One aspect of the broadly organized Slovenian Partisan resistance movement against fascism and Nazism, today it is a museum promoting solidarity, democratic values and human rights.

Sighet Memorial, Romania

“… memory on its own can be a kind of justice” is part of the motto of the Sighet Memorial, which is housed in a former Stalinist prison. The building’s history is harsh: it was a prison for schoolchildren, students and peasants from the resistance, political opponents, journalists and clergymen, and common criminals. Today it memorializes the victims of communist regimes and educates about the development of and repression by communist regimes in Romania and elsewhere in Europe, including the resultant death and suffering both inside and outside the prison walls.

European District of Strasbourg, France

Europe as we know it today came into being in 1949 at the Council of Europe. Strasbourg means “city of many streets”, and the name couldn’t be more apt. The European District of Strasbourg contains the headquarters of home to the Council of Europe, its European Court of Human Rights and the European Parliament of the European Union. Here you can deepen your understanding of modern European concerns, its future, and its commitment to European integration, the defense of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

Robert Schuman's House, Scy-Chazelles, France

Robert Schuman was pivotal in laying the foundations for the European Coal and Steel Community and for all of the European institutions to follow. His most famous speech, given on May 9 th , 1950, is commemorated annually as Europe Day.  A German born in Luxembourg who witnessed both World Wars, his ideal was always for European countries to be allies, not enemies. At the house he bought in 1926 and where he spent his brief retirement are exhibits about his personal interests and his unwavering belief in the European ideal.

Bois du Cazier, Marcinelle, Belgium

The Bois du Cazier coal mining site honors the miners lost in the disaster of 1956 in which 262 people of 12 different nationalities died. It is also a museum dedicated to the coal, iron and glass industry focused on 20 th century working classes and immigration to Wallonia (the southern, French-speaking part of Belgium). The site recalls the European solidarity demonstrated in the aftermath of the 1956 disaster, which triggered the creation of a health and safety body by the European Coal and Steel Community.

Museo Casa Alcide De Gasperi, Pieve Tesino, Italy

Alcide de Gasperi was instrumental in creating modern Europe. The house where he was born, in a border region of northern Italy, is now a museum highlighting his contributions. After serving in three different parliaments, he was Foreign Affairs Minister and Italian Prime Minister from 1945 to 1953. He supported Schuman’s plans and followed him as leader of the European Coal and Steel Community. An inspiring force in creating the European Economic Community, he worked unceasingly to build peace and democracy.

The historic Gdańsk Shipyard, Poland

The historic Gdańsk Shipyard is where the Solidarity movement was born, from origins in the violently suppressed strikes of 1970. New strikes in 1980 resulted in the use of discussion and argument rather than force, culminating in the first independent trade union in the Eastern Bloc, NSZZ “Solidarność.  These events triggered similar movements across Eastern Europe. The museum commemorates and popularizes the message of the Solidarity movement to inspire European initiatives with a universal dimension, and to share the achievements of the peaceful struggle for freedom, justice, democracy and human rights.

Village of Schengen, Schengen, Luxembourg

Schengen, on the banks of the Moselle River in Luxembourg, is where the border-dissolving Schengen Agreement was signed in 1984, on the Princess Marie-Astrid river boat. France and Germany thereby joined the Benelux in opening their common borders. Over the ensuing years, the Schengen Area has come to include 26 different European countries, enabling unrestricted movement for people with the correct passport or visa across these borders. You can visit locations in the village of Schengen that are associated with the Agreement, including the European Centre of Schengen and its museum.

Pan-European Picnic Memorial Park, Sopron, Hungary

The reunification of Europe began with the Pan-European Picnic peace demonstration held here on August 19 th , 1989.  Envisioned to strengthen friendship between Austria and Hungary, it included a brief border opening to symbolize openness. This literal open gate provided an escape to the West for nearly 600 East German citizens who had been informed of the opportunity. Many similar events followed and contributed to the destruction of the Iron Curtain. The Memorial Park stands for post-1989 borderless, unified Europe and is an important site to inform those too young to remember closed borders.

Maastricht Treaty, Netherlands

A major element unifying Europe is its common currency, the euro. The Maastricht Treaty, signed on February 7 th , 1992, that marked the beginning of this economic transformation. The agreement initiated the economic and monetary union that led to the introduction of the Euro, and reinforced democratic representation. The Provincial building where the treaty was negotiated and signed is in the city of Maastricht, located at the confluence of the Dutch, German, and Belgian borders, and now has a visitor and exhibitions center.

Historical Thermal Towns

Arriving in one of our historic thermal towns, maybe by train, to immerse yourself in the spa culture of Europe is the perfect way to start your “thermal travels” habit. Whether you seek relaxation and wellness or some world-class cultural or sporting events, you will not be disappointed!

The Best Rural Getaways in Europe

Sometimes the best way to experience Europe is by taking the road less traveled. Or in some cases, not taking a road at all. The natural side of Europe consists of vast countrysides, towering mountains, calm waterways and more. Browse this gallery of some of Europe’s best adventures that are off the beaten trail. Then, load up your backpack and be on your way.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Europe

The Northern Lights are one of the most magical things you can experience in Europe. What makes it even better is that you can see them in multiple countries. Whether you’re in Ireland or Iceland, you can find yourself under the dancing natural lights. Browse this gallery to learn about some of the best places to witness the Northern Lights in Europe.

The Best Places for Seaside Romance in Europe

Romance is everywhere in Europe. But along the coast and in the small harbor towns, romance is inevitable. From seaside villages in Italy to beaches in Latvia, browse some of the most romantic coastal spots in Europe. Then, treat your sweetheart to the ultimate getaway.

Featured Experiences

Croatia’s gingerbread craft.

Taste the culture of North Croatia!

Czechia for young travelers

Tips for adventure and trips in Czech cities.

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Europe – A Thousand Different Stories

Europe is home to a fascinating array of museums, devoted to every subject imaginable. From Vikings in the north, broken relationships in Croatia to vampires in Brasov. Here is the lowdown on Europes original and unusual museums.

Cyprus’ folk route

The Heartland of Legends.

Diocletianʼs Palace

Croatia’s living museum!

Soak up music in Coimbra!

Coimbra will sooth you with its sensuous music, sumptuous food, and stunning medieval architecture.

Switzerland for solo females

8 reasons for women to visit Switzerland.

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Heritage Travel in Europe Holiday Ideas

Italian Lakes ,The Dolomites,Venice

Lakes, mountains and cities: fly drive italy.

Sail across the calm waters of the Italian lakes as you gaze up at the Dolomites

9 days, from £ 1,575 to £ 2,265

Provence,The French Riviera

Food, wine and bikes in provence: a cultural adventure in france.

Why fly when you can zip through France on the Eurostar and TGV?

6 days, from £ 1,710 to £ 2,460

The French Riviera ,Provence

Beaches, boats and charming villages in france: a french riviera road trip.

Explore the markets in the Old Port of Marseille

11 days, from £ 5,460 to £ 7,845

Heritage Travel in Europe Guide

Reasons to Visit Rome in Winter

Top Five Most Impressive Colosseums Around the World

Clash of the Italian Icons: Rome vs Venice

Hidden Gems in France

The 10 best road trips in France and around

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Encounter centuries of heritage as you travel to Europe's top historical sites. See Joan of Arc's battlegrounds and the birthplace of Mozart, with visits to the glamorous seaside capitals of Barcelona, Biarritz and the French Riviera. You’ll discover the treasures of Ancient Rome, cruise the canals of Venice to St. Mark’s Square and explore the free-thinking Dutch capital of Amsterdam. 

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24 days itinerary trip from Paris to Amsterdam visiting 9 countries and 21 cities

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View the Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower on your sightseeing tour

Loire Valley

View Château d'Amboise

Visit this seaside resort

San Sebastián

View the beautiful Bahia de la Concha beach

See the Royal Palace, Cibeles Fountain and Retiro Park on a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist

See the Ramblas, Paseo de Gracia and Gaudi's Sagrada Família Cathedral with your Local Specialist

South of France

Drive through Provence

Visit the sophisticated film festival city

Visit the Principality

Visit the Square of Miracles to view the Leaning Tower

Visit the Renaissance city

Visit St. Peter's Basilica, view the Colosseum and see the ancient sites with your Local Specialist

Cruise by private boat to St. Mark's Square and visit a traditional glassblowing workshop

See the Opera House, Hofburg, Parliament and Imperial Boulevards with your Local Specialist

Visit this charming city, the birthplace of Mozart

View the Golden Roof and the Hofburg Palace

Liechtenstein

Visit the capital, Vaduz

Visit the Lion Monument and view the Chapel Bridge

View the castle

Rhine Valley

Cruise the romantic Rhine

Orientation tour and an excursion to Volendam

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Wednesday 26th May

Mystery Trip

We don't know where we are going but we're going!

Wednesday 2nd June

The Gower Coast & Mumbles

£21.00 

Wednesday 9th June

Sidmouth -  Devon’s Floral Resort

£25.00 

Wednesday 30th June

Cotswold Curiosities 

Three contrasting locations in the spectacular Cotswolds.

“All Saints Selsley”, the last of the great wool Churches unique in

that all its stained glass windows were designed by William Morris

and the  Pre-Raphaelite Artists. Later visit Cheltenham and

historic Montpellier, a unique area constructed in 1843 - Britains first Shopping Mall. Our tour ends at Nature in Art Gallery and Museum

at the fine Georgian Mansion, Wallsworth Hall.  

£37.50

What To See During The European Heritage Days 2023

Each September during the European Heritage Days ( Journées du Patrimoine ) visitors and residents alike have the unique opportunity to discover museums, monuments, and private spaces that are otherwise closed to the public. These days provide a fantastic look into some of France’s most spectacular sites. This year, the Journées du Patrimoine are September 16th and 17th. We’re sharing some of our top picks for what to see during the 2023 European Heritage Days in France.

What To See During European Heritage Days 2023

The French Ministry of Culture created the Journées du Patrimoine 40 years ago. They take place on the third weekend of September and see approximately 12 million visitors annually. One of the purposes of the Journées du Patrimoine is to highlight the unique stories, histories, and collections of the 17,000 participating sites. These places include embassies, theaters, hospitals, schools, castles, factories and more.

Because of their popularity, the European Heritage Days can involve some time spent queuing in line. Since the pandemic, there has been a shift towards using a reservation system. While not every place has adopted this system yet, more and more places are starting to.

The 2023 European Heritage Days themes are “Living Heritage” and “Sports Heritage.” You can browse an interactive map of participating sites here .

Paris and Île-de-France

You’ll find options galore during the Journées du Patrimoine in Paris and the Île de France region. Some perennially popular places to visit include the Elysée Palace , Hôtel Matignon , the French Senate , and the Institut de France . It’s also a wonderful opportunity to explore places like the National Assembly , the greenhouses in the Luxembourg Gardens, and the Oratoire du Louvre.

This is also a fantastic time to visit some of the castles in the Île de France region surrounding Paris. You can visit rooms normally closed to the public at Château de Champs-sur-Marne , the dungeon at the Château de Vincennes , and the family-owned Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard .

Where to Stay in Paris

Château Voltaire This 5-star hotel in the 1st arrondissement is a design lover’s dream. The hotel is a tribute to the Parisian art de vivre and a combination of three buildings that date back from the 17th and 18th centuries. The 32 rooms are the epitome of elegance and comfort. Each room contains bespoke headboards, handcrafted details, solid oak wall lights, fringed velvet, and manor-style woodwork. Each element adds to the setting, evoking an almost Gothic, angular and poetic Paris seen through the windows. The breakfast is served at the table to guarantee the freshness of the dishes. Discover a reinterpreted French cuisine at the restaurant. The chef combines local produce with modern culinary skills to create exotic delicacies. Here, the dining experience permeates the art de vivre through even the smallest details. The spa features a sauna as well as a heated pool where guest can relax on a heated day-bed.

There are plenty of ways to celebrate the 2023 European Heritage Days in Normandy. Visit La Poterie du Mesnil de Bavent to discover the finials and other ceramic decorations that adorn the villas on the coast. La Poterie du Mesnil de Bavent has been a specialist since 1842. Along with discovering the company’s savoir-faire , you’ll have the opportunity to visit and experience a craftsman village along with a market with both designers and second-hand dealers.

At famed French interior designer Jacques Garcia’s Domaine du Champ de Bataille there will be a special interactive program. Visit the fabulous apartments, tour the exceptionally open Moghol Palace, and visit the French gardens.

In Villedieu-les-Poêles, a town known for its copper production, you can visit the Cornille-Havard bell foundry. This is the foundry that produced the bells for the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

• Loire Valley

In the Loire Valley, the Château de Chenonceau is offering a special visit for the 2023 European Heritage Days. Meet at the château at 7:00 am for an exclusive visit as the sun comes up and before the castle opens to the public.

At Château de Villandry you can tour the famous French gardens in a horse-drawn carriage. Experience a special guided tour filled with historical anecdotes. Master craftsmen will also be on site to enhance a visit to the château, and visitors will be able to test out some of the various techniques used.

Bordeaux and Southwest France

Unique offerings in Bordeaux include tours of forgotten theaters, an ironmaking workshop and demonstration, and a variety of cultural walks. A not to be missed visit is to the Hôtel de Basquiat, a historic building dating from the 18th century. It was built for Joseph Basquiat de Mugriet, adviser to the parliament of Bordeaux. This exceptional residence was completed in 1781 after three years of construction, supervised by the architect François Lhôte.

In Saint-Émilion, visit the largest monolithic church in Europe. Carved out at the beginning of the 12th century, the monolithic church is underground and only visible thanks to its bell tower that reaches 68 meters high. The building is hidden from the eyes of the visitors behind a gothic portal that only the guide can open. A must-see for the European Heritage Days!

In Sarlat, many places that are normally closed to the public will be open including the Lanterns of the Dead and private mansions. Don’t miss Saturday night’s “Heritage Under the Stars” in Sarlat to discover the city’s alleys illuminated by candles.

Where to Stay in Nice

Hotel Negresco This famous property has overlooked one of the French Riviera’s most beautiful bays for a century. Unique and timeless, it has been classified as a historical monument. Facing the Mediterranean Sea on the famous Promenade des Anglais , the hotel is a few minutes walk from Nice’s historical center. The hotel has attracted a veritable “who’s who” of international clientele, kings of the old and the new world. Many of the world’s rich and famous have signed the guest book: Salvador Dali, Princess Grace of Monaco, the Beatles, Louis Armstrong, and Elton John. Staying at this hotel is stepping into French history and culture. The perfect combination of historic and contemporary is the property’s trademark. Equipped and personalized with exceptional period furniture, each one of the 128 rooms and 26 suites draws its inspiration from the most remarkable French art periods. From Louis XIII style to modern art, five centuries of history are represented. Have breakfast under the cupola imagined by Gustave Eiffel, lunch in the Rotonde restaurant surrounded by white horses, and dinner at the Chantecler, the Michelin star restaurant. In between, why not have a drink at the warm and welcoming bar? In summer, enjoy the private beach just a few steps away from the hotel’s doors.

Provence and the French Riviera

The Provence region is filled with activities for the European Heritage Days. In Marseille you can exceptionally visit the Fort d’Entrecasteaux , which has been closed to the public since it was built in 1660.

In Nice, in the spirit of the “Sports Heritage” theme, visitors as young as 4 years old will be able to discover “All by Bike!” There will be an impressive collection of the Nice brand URAGO collector’s edition bicycles, a mandala bike animation that allows participants to create a work of art while pedaling, and a bike mission game that allows participants to learn how to repair a bike as well as learn safety practices.

Lastly, in Aix-en-Provence, take an exceptional guided tour around marble. Visitors will be able to see rare antique marbles, Bibémus marble, Aleppo breach and Tholonet marble.

The possibilities are almost limitless when it comes to celebrating the 2023 European Heritage Days in France. Each region puts its cultural gems front and center so that participants can have a deeper understanding of French heritage and culture. French Side Travel offers a whole host of itineraries focused around history and culture including the Provence and French Riviera Discovery Tour , the Highlights of Normandy by Train , and a Classic Tour of the City of Light .

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This tour deepened by faith in ways I never anticipated. I have now reconnected with my home church where politics left me feeling distant. What are U.S. politics compared to what our ancestors experienced? I am also finally sharing my learning with Swartz cousins and genealogy friends. And looking forward to returning to Switzerland to visit archives. -Ann, Pa.

Yesterday the current issue of MFH arrived and it made my day!  The articles and photos were excellent. Masthof has been an invaluable ministry in keeping our heritage alive.  It is hard to believe you are still planning and conducting the tours. I can't fathom the significance of the hundreds, if not more, whose lives have been changed by participating in these tours.  -Duane Kauffman, Pa.

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If you’re searching for a Jewish Heritage Tour in Europe, you’ve come to the right place. We provide European Jewish Heritage Tours, with a special focus on the Jewish communities of Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

We offer three different European Jewish Heritage itineraries. Our first Jewish Tour of Europe includes Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Greece . We explore the rich Sephardic heritage of the region, and we focus on the specific cultural traits of the Jewish communities of the three countries we visit. Some of the highlights of this European Jewish Heritage tour include specialized in-depth Jewish tours of Sofia, Plovdiv, Skopje, Bitola (Monastir), and Thessaloniki (Salonica). We offer the tour every summer, around the middle of June. Here is a glimpse of our European Jewish Heritage tour itinerary:

Tour Itinerary: Sofia—Rila Monastery—Kyustendil—Skopje—Ohrid—Bitola (Monastir)—Vergina—Thessaloniki (Salonica)—Plovdiv—Bachkovo Monastery—Sofia .

If our set dates don’t work for you, or if you’d prefer to travel privately, we also offer customized tailor-designed private tours, based on your specific interests.

Our second Jewish Heritage Tour of Europe explores the region of the Western Balkans. On this European Jewish Heritage tour we travel through Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia, and Trieste . You will have memorable Jewish city tours in Sarajevo, Mostar, Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Trieste. Our tour itinerary moves along the following route:

Tour Itinerary: Sarajevo—Mostar—Stolac—Dubrovnik—Split—Plitvice Lakes—Zagreb—Bled Lake and Castle—Ljubljana—Postojna Cave—Trieste .

On this European Jewish Tour, too, if our date don’t fit your schedule, or if you’d prefer to have a private tour, we’re happy to offer a customized private Jewish heritage trip.

Our newest offering is a European Jewish Heritage Tour of Romania, Serbia, and Szeged (Hungary) . This Jewish heritage tour of Central and Eastern Europe includes specialized Jewish city tours of Bucharest, Belgrade, Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, Sighisoara, Szeged, Maramures and Sighet, Oradea, Satu Mare, Novi Sad, Subotica, and much more! Here is a preview of our third European Jewish heritage tour itinerary:

Tour Itinerary: Bucharest—Peles Castle—Bran Castle—Brasov—Sighisoara—Targu Mures—Cluj-Napoca—Sighetu Marmatiei—Satu Mare—Oradea—Szeged—Subotica—Novi Sad—Belgrade .

On a final note, please keep checking our website for our upcoming new fourth European Jewish Heritage Tour itinerary. Next year we’ll be launching our Jewish Heritage tour of Albania, Corfu, and Montenegro! Join our mailing list in order to get regular updates about our European Jewish Heritage tour offerings.

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Discover 12 European Cities With a Rich Cultural Heritage

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

For culture vultures from all over the world, there’s nowhere like Europe. The cities here are packed with historic sites, reflecting the continent’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Whether you’d prefer a seaside spot, an abundance of art galleries, classical music concerts, or ancient relics, here are 12 of Europe’s most culturally rich destinations. 

Athens, Greece

Whether you’re planning a city break or a spot of Greek island hopping, don’t miss the chance to visit Athens . The mighty Acropolis complex dominates the city, reflecting the importance of ancient Greek culture and civilization. You can also see more remnants from those times at the National Archaeological Museum.

Read also: European Cities With Rich Architecture

Rome, Italy

Rome offers an entire checklist of iconic sights, including the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and the awe-inspiring Colosseum. Pay Rome a visit, and you can also explore the city’s vibrant foodie and street art scenes and stroll along the banks of the Tiber. Rome is also home to the Vatican City, the international headquarters of the Catholic Church – and technically a separate country.

Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Paris, France

From springtime in Paris to a romantic winter break, no one can surely claim to be well-traveled until they’ve spent time in the French capital. Must-sees include the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre art gallery, and the Eiffel Tower, arguably the city’s symbol. Simply strolling the streets, dipping into shops and cafes en route, is also a lovely pastime in the City of Lights.

Read also: Romantic Getaways in Europe

London is another must when it comes to cultural heritage and history. Many of the city’s sights center on the British monarchy, and majestic palaces are everywhere. London also offers glorious parks, Theatreland, unparalleled shopping, the River Thames, and different districts to discover. 

Read also: Cities in Europe for Solo Traveling

Madrid, Spain

The Spanish capital can be overlooked in favor of Barcelona, but the city offers an incredible array of architecture and artistic heritage. Madrid is also characterized by graceful boulevards and stately parks. You can step into military history here, at the city’s Royal Palace and Armory, and don’t miss the Prado Museum’s collection of European art. 

Read also: Top Cities in Europe for Spring

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Characterized by slender, gabled homes lining the many canals, Amsterdam is a cinch to explore by boat, bike, or foot. Many sights hark back to the Golden Age of the 17th century, and the city is also famous for its seedier side. Don’t miss the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk, or the Van Gogh Museum for a cultural overdose.

Read also: Hidden Gems in Europe

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague offers an incomparable theater scene, as well as its enchanting medieval center. While you cannot miss sites like Charles Bridge and Old Town Square while visiting the City of a Hundred Spires, there’s Baroque architecture, pretty gardens, and the Vltava River. Mozart once lived here, and classical music concerts are a key feature of city life. 

Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World

Florence, Italy

In the heart of Tuscany, Florence is one of the world’s most artistic cities. People flock here in their millions to see the city’s vast collection of Renaissance art and architecture. The Duomo, the Galleria dell’Accademia, and the Uffizi Gallery are not to be missed. If you can, take a trip into the Tuscan countryside to see another aspect of Italian life.

Read also: Impressive Cities in the World

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is often bypassed in favor of neighboring Spain, France, or other cultural hotspots, but it is the second-oldest European capital after Athens. The coastal location is a real plus, making including a beach day on your itinerary easy. Colorful buildings and ceramic tiles are also among the city’s most photogenic features. 

Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe

Edinburgh, Scotland

The gorgeous honey-toned architecture of Edinburgh defines the city, from the sweeping New Town Georgian terraces to the soot-blackened streets of the Royal Mile. Keeping watch over it all is Edinburgh Castle, with Arthur’s Seat beyond. Cultural delights and historic monuments are around every corner in the beautiful Scottish capital, including some of the UK’s finest galleries and museums. 

Read also: Underrated Cities in Europe

Vienna, Austria

Oh, Vienna, as Midge Ure sang on the Ultravox single of the same name back in 1981. In fact, the Austrian capital has an impressive musical heritage, boasting both Beethoven and Mozart as former residents. The city also offers the MuseumsQuartier district, Schönbrunn Palace, and a magnificent setting by the River Danube. You can also sample a slice of Sachertorte at Café Sacher Wien.

Read also: Top Europe City Breaks

Bilbao, Spain

It might be a relative newcomer to the cultural scene, but Bilbao packs a powerful punch when it comes to art and architecture. In addition to visiting sites like the iconic riverside Guggenheim Museum, the Old Town, and the Bilbao Art District, you can also venture beyond the city limits to discover the traditional fishing villages and rolling green hills of the Basque Country.

Read also: European Fairytale Towns

Stunning Small Towns in Europe to Visit in Your Lifetime

Add these  charming European small towns  to your bucket list.

• Read more:  Small Towns in Europe

Must-Visit European Cities for Your Bucket List

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of  must-visit European cities .

• Read more:  Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Hidden European Gems

Explore  off-the-beaten-path gems in Europe  for a truly authentic experience.

• Read more:  Hidden Gems in Europe

Best Budget-Friendly European Cities

Stretch your travel budget in these  cost-effective European cities .

• Read more:  Budget-Friendly European Cities

European Cities for a Spring Getaway

Make your spring unforgettable with these  European city trips .

• Read more:  12 Top Cities in Europe for Spring

Small Towns Across the Globe That Are Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

Step into a world of  beautiful small towns  where cobblestone streets lead to timeless wonders.

• Read more:  Small Towns Out of a Fairy Tale

Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

Make your travel dreams come true with these wonderfully  unique places in Europe .

• Read more:  Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

Read the original thread on  Discover 12 European Cities With a Rich Cultural Heritage .

This article was produced and syndicated by  World Wild Schooling .

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Museum and Exhibition Center

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Museum and Exhibition Center - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.03 mi) Elektrostal Hotel
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I've visited over 50 European cities. Here are the 5 I can't wait to return to.

• After visiting over 50  European cities , I'm often asked which places have been my favorites.
• However, I've found that each city I've been to has offered something different.
• A few of my favorite places to visit include  Barcelona  and Ljubljana, Slovenia.

It's looking like 2024 is a good time to travel to Europe , especially if you want to avoid extra paperwork and fees.

European Union (EU) authorities have been working on a system that makes it mandatory for many travelers, including Americans, to obtain a visa-like document in order to visit most countries in the EU.

Although the requirement was meant to be put in place this year, it's since been delayed to 2025 — so you may want to book that European trip sooner rather than later.

As someone who's visited over 50 European cities, I can help you narrow down your options. Here are the five cities in Europe I absolutely loved and can't wait to return to.

Barcelona is my favorite city in the world.

Barcelona is, dare I say, my favorite city in the world. Its unique architecture is reason enough to visit, but Spain also offers some of the best cuisine around.

Barcelona truly offers something for everyone, from parks and beaches to nightclubs and cafés.

When I visited Bunkers del Carmel, a popular lookout spot that provides stunning views of Barcelona, I felt a true sense of community. Here, I found people simply drinking wine and enjoying the views together.

Porto, Portugal, is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

I've found that Porto is often overlooked for Portugal's more popular city, Lisbon. When I visited Porto, however, I spent my days sitting by the waterfront, drinking port wine, and eating amazing Portuguese food.

Seeing the sunset here is a right of passage — I recommend catching one at Jardim do Morro, a garden overlooking the city.

Edinburgh, Scotland, is easy to explore on foot.

When I visited Edinburgh, I felt like I was on the set of a Harry Potter film . The medieval architecture is unlike anything I've seen before, and it's easy to explore the city on foot.

The food scene did not disappoint, and I learned that Scottish cuisine is much more than just haggis. I recommend checking out restaurants like Oink and The Bon Vivant.

Ljubljana, Slovenia, is full of natural beauty.

Ljubljana, Slovenia, is one of the most aesthetically-pleasing cities I've visited. Its natural beauty is unmatched, and it's very easy to get around from the city center.

In my opinion, a trip to Ljubljana isn't complete without a visit to Lake Bled, where travelers can enjoy turquoise waters and gorgeous mountains.

The city also has an award-winning food scene , with multiple Michelin stars to show for it.

Visiting Colmar, France, makes me feel like I'm in a Disney movie.

Colmar, located in the Alsace region of France, feels like a Disney movie come to life. I've visited the famous Christmas markets in the region, but the area has so much to offer.

Aside from Christmas festivities, Alsace is also known for its wine. In my opinion, the Alsace wine route is an underrated travel destination, as it's often outshined by more popular areas like Paris and the South of France.

Whether it's your first or fifth time in France, I recommend adding Colmar to your list of cities to visit.

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Analysis: Olaf Scholz Is on a Telltale China Trip

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Olaf Scholz Is on a Telltale China Trip

Europe is flexing its muscles with china—but may soon learn if germany is really on board..

• Foreign & Public Diplomacy

After years of speaking softly and carrying a small stick, the European Union has begun flexing its economic muscles with China, concerned that an influx of cheap Chinese products could kill off homegrown industries. The big question is whether Germany, the bloc’s biggest economy, is fully on board with the more assertive approach.

This is what makes German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s trip to China next week especially interesting. Berlin’s policy toward Beijing has hardened in recent years. Last July, Scholz’s government came out with a toughly worded China strategy that shifted the focus to de-risking, diversification, and a reduction of dependencies on China.

But the strategy might never have been published in the first place if it had been up to Scholz alone. The driving force behind the new critical approach has been one of Scholz’s coalition partners, the Greens. Scholz himself remains cautious, reluctant to push China too hard, in part due to fears that Beijing could retaliate against the handful of large German companies that have tied their futures to the Chinese market.

In one of his longest bilateral visits  since taking office in 2021, Scholz will spend three full days in China from April 14 to 16, visiting German companies in Chongqing and Shanghai, before heading to Beijing for meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. Both sides will be keen to stress areas of cooperation.

Scholz, under pressure at home due to a weakening German economy and a Ukraine policy that has satisfied neither the hawks nor the doves, is keen to avoid opening up new fronts with Beijing in a year that could end with a shock to trans-Atlantic relations from the reelection of Donald Trump in the United States. Xi will want to send a signal that China and Germany remain committed to working with each other at a time when the Chinese economy is under mounting pressure from a property crisis, COVID restrictions hangover, and U.S. technology restrictions.

But lurking just below the surface are a range of divisive issues that will be difficult for the two leaders to contain.

High on the German agenda will be China’s support for the Russian war machine in Ukraine, as concerns mount that Beijing is crossing the West’s red lines and providing Moscow with goods and technical assistance that are essential to its military campaign.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned , during a visit to China last week, that Chinese companies that provided material support for Russia’s war would face “significant consequences” in the form of sanctions. Expect Scholz to deliver a similar message in more dulcet tones.

But perhaps the most important topic on the agenda will be the worsening trade relationship between the EU and China. In Brussels, fears are growing that China could try to export its way out of its economic malaise by flooding the European market with cheap, subsidized goods. At the same time, European countries are debating how far to go in restricting the export of sensitive technologies to China amid mounting pressure from Washington.

Last June, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled an economic security strategy that aimed to define red lines for technological cooperation with China. A few months later, the commission launched a high-stakes investigation into imports of electric vehicles from China. And in recent weeks, it has announced subsidy probes tied to wind turbines, solar panels, and trains, accusing Chinese firms of gaining an unfair advantage in the European market thanks to the generous state support they receive at home.

Together, it amounts to the most forceful pushback against China that we have ever seen from Europe—and it is just the beginning.

In an important speech at Princeton University this week, Margrethe Vestager, the European commissioner in charge of competition issues, highlighted the new measures but admitted that Europe’s “whack-a-mole” tactics may not be sufficient.

“We need more than a case-by-case approach. We need a systematic approach. And we need it before it is too late,” she said. “We can’t afford to see what happened on solar panels, happening again on electric vehicles, wind, or essential chips.”

Vestager proposed the development of “trustworthiness” criteria for critical clean technologies—an echo of the approach taken to “high-risk” 5G suppliers such as Huawei. Countries that did not meet European standards in areas such as cybersecurity, data security, labor rights, and environmental standards would find their companies restricted or excluded from the market. This would mean a momentous change in Europe’s economic relationship with China.

But for it to work, support from Germany will be essential. And it is unclear whether Scholz is prepared to put Germany’s privileged economic relationship with China—even if it is increasingly under strain—at risk. He will travel to China with a delegation of leaders of German industry, including the CEOs of the three big carmakers—BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen—that have been doubling down on the Chinese market in recent years. According to Rhodium Group figures , German direct investments in China hit a record 7.1 billion euros in 2022, a whopping 79 percent of the EU total.

In the weeks before his first visit to China as chancellor, in November 2022, Scholz rammed through a deal giving Chinese shipping giant Cosco a stake in one of the terminals in the Hamburg port, Germany’s biggest. He has also resisted pressure from his coalition partners to take a decision on phasing Huawei out of the German telecommunications network. The Chinese group has a 59 percent share of the 5G network in Germany, one of the highest levels in Europe.

Against this backdrop, European Commission officials will be watching the messages Scholz sends in China closely. Will he explain to his Chinese hosts the seriousness of Europe’s concerns about the trade relationship and signal that the EU will respond? This would show that Germany and its partners are prepared to use their economic leverage at a time when the Chinese economy is struggling and leaders in Beijing are desperate to attract European investment and retain access to the European market.

Or will Scholz play down trade tensions, as German businesses are urging him to do, and undermine Brussels in the process?

The answer will say a lot about how united Europe is on China in a crucial year, culminating in a momentous U.S. presidential election in November. Weeks after the Scholz visit, Xi will make his first trip to Europe in five years , passing through France, Hungary, and Serbia. If Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron deliver the same message to Xi, it would send a powerful signal. If they fail to do so, it would be fatal.

Noah Barkin is a senior advisor at the Rhodium Group and visiting senior fellow at the German Marshall Fund of the United States.

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The latest flurry of U.S. diplomacy shows how the president is all about “minilateralism.”

The New Idea of India

Narendra Modi’s reign is producing a less liberal but more assured nation.

Arab Countries Have Israel’s Back—for Their Own Sake

The world’s biggest election is set to begin, 3 ways israel could respond to iran, why israel-iran war is a lifeline for netanyahu.

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