Do you want to visit Europe this year? You are in the right place if you are unsure where to go. In my last blog, I shared my five favorite regions to visit in Europe’s most popular countries. For this blog, I will take a different angle. Here are my top 10 places I want to explore in Europe’s most popular countries.
What are the most popular countries in Europe?
Many people are not familiar with the most popular countries that tourists visit in Europe. Here is a list of the top ten, in order. I have been to all of them except Turkey.
In this blog, I will identify the places I want to explore in each country. I have never been to any of these places before.
Place #1 – Dordogne Region, France
This region in France is not that popular with many American tourists. However, the rest of Europe loves visiting this place, and based on my research, I can see why. It has a picturesque river that runs through it. There are historic castles, villages, and prehistoric caves in the Dordogne. I would enjoy spending a week there relaxing and exploring this region.
Place #2 – Andalucia, Spain
I have not visited the southernmost region of Spain, which is located along the Mediterranean Sea. Andalucia is known for many things, including Seville, its central city, the Alhambra Palace in Grenada, and beautiful beaches. Add the white villages in the mountains, flamenco, local cuisine, and excellent wine to the list. There are many great reasons to visit this region, although I would avoid the summer months.
Place #3 – Emilia Romagna, Italy
For Italy, I’m selecting the Emilia Romagna region. It is best known for its food. Bolognia, its capital, is considered by many to be the culinary capital of Italy. That’s saying something, considering this country is well-known for its food. How about fast cars if you’re looking for another reason to visit? Ferrari, Maserati, and several other Italian sports car makers are here.
Istanbul, Turkey
I’ve never been to Turkey. I figure I should start in Istanbul, its largest city. I hear it is lovely, full of sights, excellent food, and many things to see and do. It seems perfect for a long weekend getaway.
The South Coast of England
This year, I’m a Southampton football fan. I’ll be going to a game. While there, I should explore some of the south coasts of England. The landscapes look fantastic, and there are several historic places nearby.
Place #6 – Lower Saxony, Germany
Lower Saxony, Germany, is located up north around the Hamburg area. I’ve been all over Southern Germany but haven’t spent much time in the north. It would be fun to explore this region.
Place #7 – Ionian Islands, Greece
I have already visited well-known Greek Islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete. I would love to get off the west coast and see the Ionian Islands like Corfu and Kefalonia. The water here looks crystal clear. These islands are well-known for their beautiful beaches, historic villages, and excellent food. That sounds like a good time to me.
Southern Austria
I’ve spent a fair amount of time in the northern part of this country, visiting places like Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna. I want to explore the South for more Alpine Villages, massive mountains, and historic castles.
Place #9 – The Algarve, Portugal
Kim and I spent a fair amount of time up north exploring Lisbon, Porto, and many places in between. We’d love to head south and view this fantastic Coastline, beautiful beaches, and world-class seafood.
The Bridge Too Far Cities in The Netherlands
This one’s a little hard to explain if you’ve never read the book or seen the movie A Bridge Too Far. Here is a quick summary: During World War II, the Allies executed Operation Market Garden, which included Airborne operations into Eindhoven, Nijmegen, and Arnhem in the Netherlands. For any of you World War II Buffs, you would love this plan: to start in Amsterdam and do a loop including these three cities.
Bonus – The French Alps
Why include another place in France? It’s the most popular country in Europe to visit. Last month, I watched the entire Tour de France. The Olympics are there this year. I would love to visit the Alps, see the mountains, and hike in this region.
I am Doug Keating, and this is my letter to my sons.