There is nothing more wonderful than the time spent traveling in Europe, going from one famous landmark to another interesting destination, surprise after surprise. There are so many tourist attractions in Europe that you want to visit. Let’s find out the top 15 destinations in Europe in this article!
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1. Duomo Cathedral, Italy
Located in the city of Milano, Lombardia, northern Italy, this is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Milan. Duomo is a tourist attraction in Europe famous for its ancient, monumental Gothic architecture and is the 4th largest Roman Catholic church in the world.
History of the Duomo
Duomo church in Milan is designed in late Gothic architecture, built in 1386 and nearly 3 centuries later, the work was completed, located in Lombardia, Italy. With its long history, the church still stands strong and majestic in the face of the challenges of nature and lives the wars in the world.
At first, the Duomo Milan church was built in the Lombard Gothic style with brick materials. However, at this time, it was also influenced by the latest architectural trends in Europe, so the building was changed to use marble materials and the person in charge of this change was Mr. Nicolas de Bonaventure, he followed suit. Gothic Rayonnat architecture.
By 1402 when Galeazzo died, Duomo Milan was only half completed. The church continued to build until 1480 was almost completed. From 1950, the project added a new idea, the octagonal dome.
The architecture of the Duomo
The area of the church is nearly 12,000 square meters, 157 meters long, 93 meters wide, and can accommodate 40,000 people. The architecture of the Duomo Milan church when viewed as a whole is shaped like a cross. The architecture was originally designed with 3 main compartments, then expanded to 5 compartments. The facade of the church is designed into small edges, overlapping each other like a thin, soft cobweb, built over 5 centuries.
The largest space in the middle is about 45m high and has 4 aisles, supported by 40 pillars. Duomo Milan is built of white marble, because the material is stone, restoration is very difficult.
In addition to the above architectural beauty, the Duomo church also attracts visitors with countless delicately sculpted and decorated statues inside. Around it, there are 3,400 statues, including 96 large gargoyles, on the top of the church there are 135 needle-like pyramids like a crown, especially the Madonnina spire with a height of 108.5m.
2. Venice, Italy is in the top 15 destinations in Europe
Located in the North of Italy, the city of Venice is romantically beautiful along the canal that runs through the city and small bridges connecting the two riverbanks. When the city is brightly lit, you can rent a small boat to get lost in a city stream, enjoy some wine and listen to classical European songs.
History of Venice
How was the city of Venice built? According to many Venetian records, dating back to the 6th century, refugees fleeing Lombard invaders then ended up on islands in the Venetian lagoon. At the end of the 7th century, this settlement had a ruler who was an official appointed by the Byzantine Empire. In 751, when the Lombards conquered Ravenna, the Byzantines changed their name to Venetian Doge.
In the following centuries, Venice developed as a commercial center, where the exchange of many countries around the world. By 992, Venice had won special trade rights with the empire in exchange for once again accepting Byzantine sovereignty. The city of Venice became increasingly wealthy and gained independence in 1082. In 1144, Venice was called a commune for the first time.
In the 12th century Venice officially entered the trade war until the early 13th century the city had the opportunity to become a famous trading empire.
Over the next several years, Venice was at war with Genoa, and the Battle of Chioggia in 1380 became a major turning point restricting Genoa’s trade. Meanwhile, the Doges’ power is dwindling. After much discussion in the 15th century, the expansion of Venice into mainland Italy represented the capture of Vicenza, Verona, Padua and Udine. The period from 1420 to 1450 is said to be the height of Venetian wealth and power.
After many successful expansions and the capture of many lands east of Venice. The decline of Venice began in 1453 when Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks. In addition, Portuguese sailors sailed around Africa, opening another trade route to the east. Expansion in Italy also backfired when the pope organized the League of Cambrai to challenge Venice, defeating the city.
Although the territory was regained, the reputation was greatly damaged. When other trade routes were opened in the Atlantic, Africa, England, and the Netherlands, Venice ceased to be the main trading center. During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the Venetian maritime trading empire officially declined.
The Republic of Venice ended in 1797, when Napoleon’s French army forced the city to agree to a new government. Venice briefly belonged to Austria after a peace treaty with Napoleon.
After the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805 Venice again belonged to France and formed part of the short-lived kingdom of Italy. Later, Napoleon’s fall from power caused Venice to be placed back under Austrian rule. By 1846, the city of Venice was connected to the mainland and began to receive tourists. In 1860 Venice became part of the new Italian kingdom and is active to this day.
Why is it called “Venice is the city of love”?
It is no coincidence that the city is called “Vannie – City of Love” by everyone. The name Venice or Venezia (local language) is derived from the old Venetian calling. In Latin, this name means “love”. It is thanks to the way people call its name that Venice is called “the city of love” or “the mecca of love”. In addition, when you arrive in Venice, you will realize that from every corner, the expression of the lifestyle of the people here is subtle and romantic.
Famous tourist attractions in Venice
Grand Canal
Coming to the city of canals Venice without visiting the Grand Canal is a huge regret. The canals in Venice meander around the zigzag city combined with spectacular bridges to form an extremely beautiful picture. Enjoying the sunset, walking around and watching the sparkling waters of the canal are the activities that many tourists like most when coming here. Coming to Venice, don’t miss a cruise with 102 from the iconic Gondola to see the scenery and wonderful Venetian architecture.
Doge’s Palace
One of the must-go places when coming to Venice is the Doge’s palace. Prominent next to the Venice River is the magnificent and extremely splendid Doge Palace. With Gothic architecture and sophistication in decoration, the palace was always made it incredibly beautiful and classy. Some famous tourist attractions near Doge’s palace include Porta Della Carta, Scala Dei Giganti, Scala d’Oro golden, Sala del Collegio and works by Tintoretto.
Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco is the place where most tourists come to Venice. Dubbed one of the most beautiful squares of its time, Piazza San Marco has massive and splendid architecture. This is a public place in the city of Venice, so you can visit this place at no cost. Some places to visit near the square are Palazzo Ducale, St. San Marco’s church, and St. Mark’s bell tower.
Rialto Bridge
A famous landmark of Venice, the Rialto Bridge is an important crossing point of the canal. The bridge is shaped like an inverted V with a unique marble chain and high walls. Around the Rialto Bridge, there is the largest shopping center in Venice and many famous restaurants, eateries, and gondolas. Although of the 444 bridges that cross the rivers in Venice, the Rialto is the most popular.
3. Dam Square, Netherlands
This is a famous tourist attraction in Europe in the inherently beautiful capital of Amsterdam. This square attracts tourists because it is the most vibrant administrative, cultural and tourist center in the Netherlands.
History of Dam Square
Dam Square is a famous landmark in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The square was born in the 17th century when a dam was built around the Amstel River to prevent water from the Zuiderzee Sea from entering the city, causing damage to people and property.
During that century, many buildings were built around the square. Many special events are held here. Street artists with interesting performances made this square even more attractive. In 1960s, Dam Square was famous for being home to many “hippie” people.
The name “Dam” is derived from the location of the original dam on the Amstel River. Built around 1270, the dam formed the first connection between settlements on either side of the river. In the late 1960s, this lively area attracted artists and hippies who created a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with a cool style. Today, the square and surrounding streets are home to great cafes, bars, and restaurants serving some of the Dutch capital’s best cuisine.
What’s special about Dam Square?
Topping the list of famous European tourist attractions and attracting tourists from all over the world, Dam Square focuses on the great historical architecture of the old city of Amsterdam. Many people used to go back and tell each other that “just coming to Dam Square, you can ‘touch’ to the most typical tourist gems of the Netherlands”.
The most impressive building that you can easily visit is the Royal Palace built in the 17th century – dubbed the oldest building in Europe. Although the Dutch royal family does not currently live here, the building is still the place where many special events of the city take place. Next is the National Monument, Nieuwe Kerk church, etc., making you always overwhelmed by the unique architecture.
Madame Tussauds wax museum is also the place to hold many “moving footsteps” because it has many portraits of historical figures, pop stars, and movie stars. Moreover, you will be extremely excited to see the wax figures moving magically.
In particular, around the Square area, there are also countless souvenir shops, eateries and adjacent to two bustling shopping streets regardless of day and night. Coming here, you do not have to worry about carrying an empty stomach when traveling to Europe as well as enjoy shopping as you like.
Not only that, you can also enjoy the wonderful performances of street artists. The melodious songs, vibrant dances or skillful art performances will be a memorable experience when you are in the Netherlands.
The most outstanding feature is that you will be immersed in the flock of pigeons gathered at Dam Square – a wonderful image that always catches the eyes of all visitors when walking here.
Famous buildings in Dam Square
There are many restaurants, cafes, and shops in Dam square. But this place attracts locals and tourists due to the concentration of many unique tourist attractions of the Netherlands
The most prominent is the Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palace), which was built as a town hall for magistrates in Amsterdam.
The Royal Palace was the largest ancient building in Europe in the 17th century. The Dutch royal family no longer lives here but today the building is still the site of many special events. When there are no events, the building is open to the public.
Near this Palace is the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, the largest 5-star hotel in the Netherlands. This is the ideal choice for travelers when stopping in Amsterdam. Founded in 1866 by a Polish immigrant, the hotel has 3 restaurants with delicious dishes.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has a mysterious and ancient beauty like the pictures in the fairy world that you still imagine. The vertical Spiers from the cathedral, the clock tower, the castle, the oldest Charles stone bridge in Europe and the beautiful Petrin park all make you unable to stop going.
History of Prague
The Prague area has been inhabited since the Stone Age. The Prague Basin during Prehistory were the most inhabited and densely populated areas of Bohemia. Until about 50 BC the Celts Boii settled here, then more than 500 years later the German Marcomanni. The first groups of Slavs arrived in the area from about the second half of the 6th century.
In the 9th century Prague castle was created in the area of Suburbium now in the Little Town and in the 10th century a second castle on Vysehrad as the seat of the house of Přemyslid. Protected by two castles, settlements on either side of the Vltava River developed into residences for local artisans and German and Jewish merchants.
Around 1230/1234 Wenceslas I fortified the settlement along the Vltava River and gave it town rights. Prague has since been the royal residence of Bohemian rulers. His son Premysl Otakar II. drove out the Czech inhabitants on the other side of Vltava and founded in 1257 the New Prague Street, the Little Street (Mala Strana). The third part of Prague that had been established by dukes before 1320 called Hradčany was located west of the castle.
Under Emperor Karl IV and his son Wenzel IV, Prague was the Holy Roman emperor’s city that prospered in the second half of the 14th century economically, culturally, politically and in many fields. other area. Here, Karl University was founded in 1348 as the first university in Central Europe. With the construction of a new urban area in the same year, the city of more than 40,000 inhabitants is the 4th largest city north of the Alps and the 3rd largest by city area in Europe. From 1419 the city was in turmoil during the Hussite Wars and was partially destroyed.
At the end of the 16th century, Emperor Rudolf II again chose Prague as the capital. From that time were born Baroque palaces and lavish churches. The Thirty Years’ War was provoked by the Second Thousand Out of the Window in Prague. The Seven Years’ War left many traces in the city. 1784 the four formerly independent towns of Hradčany, the Little Street (Mala Strana), the Old Town (Stare Mesto) and the New Town (Nové město) merged into the city of Prague.
In the course of the 19th century, Prague again witnessed remarkable cultural development. Among other things, the National Museum and the National Theater were established. Around 1860 the Germans in Prague who had been the majority since the Middle Ages became a minority for the first time. In the Czechoslovak census of 1930 42,000 citizens of Prague considered German as their mother tongue, they lived mainly in the center (Old Town and Small Town).
Around 1900, open Prague was a center for young Czech and German artists and writers. As for poetry, there are three groups of poets competing with each other: the narrow Prague group consisting of Max Brod, his friends Franz Kafka, Felix Weltsch and Oskar Baum. The “Wefa” society included many authors virtually unknown today, such as Friedrich Adler.
Another association, belonging to the Neo-Romantic group of young people in Prague, includes, for example, Rainer Maria Rilke, Gustav Meyrink, who works in Prague, and Franz Werfel. During this time Prague was known as a city within the Habsburg Empire that had active cultural exchange between peoples, however, there were also many conflicts between peoples, often of a social nature.
After World War I, the Czech nationalist movement of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk’s group achieved its goal and Czechoslovakia, a nation of Czechs and Slovaks, was established, and Prague became its capital. The country was hit hard by conflicts between ethnic groups but was one of the few countries in Europe that remained democratic until the late 1930s. Its fate was finally closed. marked by the Agreement of Munich in 1938 and the invasion of German troops on Hitler’s orders the following year.
Prague became the capital of a new protectorate Bohemia and Moravia. During that year, about 120,000 Jews lived in the Bohemian lands, many of them in Prague. Nazi Germany killed about 78,000 people. At the end of World War II on May 1, 1945, when news of Hitler’s suicide became known in Prague, the three-day deployment from Berlin at half-mast was conducted without resistance. Only when Soviet troops approached the city did the Prague uprisings and barricades begin in the city on the afternoon of May 4.
On May 9, the army of General Vlasov, who had even fought on the side of the German army before, entering the city and assisting the rebels. The Red Army finally took Prague after strong resistance. On the orders of Soviet dictator Stalin many members of the Prague units of Vlasov’s army as well as Vlasov himself were imprisoned.
Immediately after the war ended in May 1945, most of the Germans in Prague were deported. Many of these were initially incarcerated, about 5,000 were killed or died in the camps. In 1945, in the framework of the Benes decree, even the Hungarians in Prague were confiscated and until 1947 were partly deported to Hungary or forced to resettle. In February 1948, Prague fell under the communist regime of Klement Gottwald.
During the Prague spring of 1968 the authorities peacefully attempted to replace the prevailing authoritarian socialism (many Czechs refer to as “red fascism”) with a “socialism with a People”. But this was crushed by military force of the Warsaw Pact.
1989 Prague was the stage of the so-called Velvet revolution, which marked the end of the socialist regime in Czechoslovakia, but also accelerated the dissolution of the joint Czech and Slovak states. Furthermore, events in the West German embassy in Prague, a refuge for refugees from East Germany, write down all-German history.
Famous tourist attractions in Prague
Coming to Prague, you will easily get lost in architectural features like stepping out of a fairy tale. The following are interesting places that visitors should not miss when coming to Prague.
Charles Bridge
The center of attraction of Prague is the ancient bridge on the Vltava River. The bridge was built by King Charles IV in Gothic and Baroque architecture in 1357 to replace an old bridge that was washed away by floods, but the bridge did not bear the name Charles until the 19th century.
The bridge is 520m long and 10m wide with 16 arches. Above the piers is the place where the statues are located, hence the name “Bridge of Statues”. There are 30 sculptures of the city’s patron saints, built mainly in the 18th century.
This is the only pedestrian bridge in Prague. From the Charles Bridge, walk to see the gentle Vltava stream. Very mellow and romantic.
Old Town Square
The old town square, measuring 1.7 hectares, is considered the heart of Prague, the center of activities of the residents here (in the past, this was the market square). The architecture on the square has many shapes but harmony, warm colors and many impressive decorative motifs. This is the place where the annual music festival called “Spring” takes place, attracting a lot of guests and music lovers.
Street vendors race to invite tourists to pass by. The square is filled with laughter, chirping of different languages, and music mingling together.
Prague astronomical clock
The Prague Astronomical Clock (also known as the Prague Orloj) mounted on the south wall of the Town Hall in the old square is considered a wonder of the old town of Prague.
The clock was installed in 1410 and is the oldest working astronomical clock in the world.
Every hour from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., people from all over the world flock here to look up into the air, admire the spectacular scene at the moment the clock strikes, and watch the chicken golden drums, and the 12 holy apostles appear in the small windows one after another, looking at the “snob”, “the miser”, “the god of death” and “the pagan” on the four corners of the exquisite clock.
Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is the largest square in the east of the city attached to an important spatial axis. The building that dominates the southeast-south end of this space axis is the massive National Museum.
Prague Castle
Hradcany (Castle district) is a royal castle built in 1320 located on a high hill on the west bank of the Vltava River, now the seat of government offices. Hradcany architecture consists of a series of massive houses running around the inner courtyards. Near the middle of the castle, there is a Gothic church with pointed roofs reaching to the sky, dominating the space of the whole city. It is the church of Saint Vitus.
The castle is always open to welcome visitors, becoming a valuable museum of ancient architecture. Below the castle is a small town (Mala Strana) with many beautiful gardens. Because it is located on a high hill, from the square in front of the castle can see the whole city, stretching to the distant forests.
Church of St. Vitus
St.Vitus Cathedral is one of the attractions located on the grounds of Prague Castle on a high hill in the Hradcany district. Although the church looks like it is hundreds of years old, it was actually completed in 1929.
Vltava Cruise
Seeing Prague on a cruise along the Vltava River is an exciting and unique experience. Choose a cruise with a duration of two hours or more that will take you away from the hustle and bustle of central Prague and allow you to enjoy the peace and quiet on the Vltava River.
5. Eiffel Tower, France
Too famous and constant in the hearts of those who think of France, as the capital of light and the most romantic things in the world. It’s undoubtedly true that it’s one of the top places to visit in France.
History of the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower was the tallest building in the world at that time. The tower’s 300m height exceeds the second, the 170m tall Washington Monument in the United States. The Eiffel Tower held this position for 41 years until it was surpassed by the Chrysler Building in New York, USA in 1930.
At first, the French were particularly annoyed by Eiffel’s presence. Even a group of architects and scholars signed a document opposing the construction of the tower. They called the construction “useless” and “monstrous”. The Eiffel Tower was the most controversial building in Paris at that time. Not a single resident in the French capital living in the late nineteenth century could remain indifferent to the appearance of the Eiffel Tower. While under construction, the tower received a lot of detractors. Many people think that the Eiffel Tower will be a black spot in the sky of Paris.
However, from the very beginning, besides the tourist function, the Eiffel Tower was also used for scientific purposes. Meteorology and aeronautical laboratory are used on the top floor of the tower. The Eiffel Tower played an extremely important role in World War I, especially during the Battle of the Marne in 1914, specifically, from the top of the tower, one could send a signal to direct the French army from the front line. Today, the tower continues to be a radio and television broadcasting station for the entire Paris region.
At night, every 5 minutes, about 20,000 lights and 336 projectors operate, creating a magnificent beauty for the Eiffel Tower – the symbol of the “light capital” of Paris. Including the antenna, the Eiffel Tower is 324m high (the original height of the design is 300m) and is the tallest building in France today. Because the tower is made entirely of iron and metal, the height of the tower will be affected when the temperature changes. In summer, the Eiffel Tower is about 17cm taller. In winter, the height of the tower decreases from 10 to 20 cm.
Originally, the Paris emblem was painted yellow. From 1953 to 1961, people used sepia for this architecture. Every 7 years, the entire tower will “give” a new coat of paint to prevent rust and each time, the Eiffel will “eat” about 60 tons of paint.
The Eiffel Tower attracts millions of tourists per year and holds the position of the most attractive tall building in the world. Among the visitors, the French make up only 13%. The rest are foreigners, with the highest percentage being Americans, British and Italians. The Eiffel Tower has become a symbol of France for more than 100 years, the Eiffel Tower along with the Champ-de-Mars is the venue for festivals and concerts of the city, Eiffel has also become the inspiration of many authors, artists. This tower appears in many works of painting, photography, literature, film, and television.
The architecture of the Eiffel
Ground floor
Location of the foot of the tower
Dimensions Side: 25 m, Height 4 m
Built: 1887
Material: Concrete, gravel, iron
The four legs of the Eiffel Tower form a large square with sides 125 meters, in accordance with the registration at the 1886 contest. Height 325 meters with 116 antennas, the Eiffel Tower’s base is located 33.5 meters above the level. seawater.
Foundation: The two pillars on the École Militaire side rest on a layer of concrete 2 meters thick, underneath there is a layer of gravel. The depth of the foundation is 7 meters. The two pillars on the Seine side are similar and are below the river’s water level. The workers had to work in sealed metal kegs–submersible wells–of sealed metal. Sixteen foundation blocks support each tower foot and large 7.80 meter-long steel anchor bolts secure the pylons.
Tower foot: Each tower foot has a square shape, located at the four corners of a large square. The base of these pillars is concrete platforms 4 meters high, and 25 meters side. Today, the ticket counters located at the northern and western legs, consume 2 tons of ticket paper each year. Elevators are located at the east and west legs, about every eight minutes. The stairs are located at the foot of the East tower, including 1,665 steps to the top but only open to the public up to the third floor. At the foot of the south tower, there is an elevator dedicated to employees and guests of Le Jules-Verne restaurant on the second floor.
Arcs: Supported by four pillars, these arcs are 39 meters above the ground and have a diameter of 74 meters. According to the original drawing of Stephen Sauvestre, the arch is also elaborately decorated. For the construction, this arch has an aesthetic function and helps the tower’s base firmly.
Second floor
Height: 57.63 m
Side Size: 70.69 m
Area: 4,200 m²
Built: 1887
Material: Iron
At 57 meters above the ground, the second floor of the Eiffel Tower has an area of 4,200 m², is relatively square and can accommodate about 3,000 people.
A corridor runs around the second floor, allowing visitors a 360° panoramic view of Paris. The corridors are equipped with telescopes and instructions to help visitors observe the city’s works. The outside face bears the names of 72 scientists of the world in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The second floor also has Altitude 95 restaurant located on two small floors. The Altitude 95 has tables that look out over the city, while the reverse side has tables that look into the interior of the tower. The name of the restaurant means height 95 meters, which is the height of the second floor of the tower above sea level.
On this floor can also see many traces of the tower’s history. Like the spiral staircases, which are the origins of the building, leading to the top. This staircase was removed in 1986 during major renovation work. Cut into 22 sections, 21 segments of the staircase have been auctioned and the majority of the buyers are US collectors.
Finally, an observatory at the top allows for recording the oscillations, and changes of the tower under the influence of wind and thermal expansion. Gustave Eiffel designed the tower to withstand an amplitude of 70 cm, but it never happened to that extent. During the 1976 heat wave, the expansion amplitude reached 18 cm, and in the December 1999 storm, the wind speed was 240 km/h, the amplitude fluctuated only up to 13 cm. Pierre Affaticati and Simon Pierra also overcome this scaling problem in 1982 by adding different metals to the tower frame.
Third floor
Height: 115.73 m
Side Size: 40.96 m
Area: 1,650 m²
Building: 1888
Material: Iron
At 115 meters above the ground, the third floor of the Eiffel Tower has an area of 1,650 square meters, is relatively square in shape and can accommodate about 1,600 people.
The third floor is considered the most ideal floor to see Paris. The height of the floor reaches the optimal level for the surrounding works. On the fourth floor, these buildings will become difficult to see because of the distance. In clear weather, visibility of the third floor is estimated to be 55 km to the south, 60 km to the north, 65 km to the east and 70 km to the west.
Under the floor, glass panes allow visitors to look down at the ground. Iron nets are installed around it to prevent attempts to jump into the air by people who want to commit suicide or extreme sports.
Le Jules-Verne culinary restaurant with 95 tables, is rated 1 star by the famous Michelin guide and 16/20 by Gault-Millau. Opened in 1983, the restaurant’s decor remains the same, dark and discreet, with metal sculptures. Through the glass windows of the restaurant, diners can enjoy the view of Paris city. The restaurant’s head chef is Alain Reix, along with 30 kitchen assistants and waiters.
There are also 60 other employees. Located at a height of 123 meters, the restaurant has an area of about 500 m² and has access to a separate staircase located at the foot of the south tower shared with the maintenance staff. Most of Le Jules-Verne’s customers are tourists, and tables are booked long in advance: about a month for lunch and three months for dinner. Like the Eiffel Tower, Le Jules-Verne restaurant is open seven days a week.
Why the Eiffel is so well-known?
The main reason to visit the Eiffel Tower is simply that it’s iconic and it’s great to see this impressive structure in person.
Although the Eiffel Tower is more beautiful from a distance or in photos, climbing the Eiffel Tower is also an extremely magical experience that everyone should try when traveling to France.
Climbing the steps inside the Eiffel Tower is a great experience because you can admire the great beauty of the architecture designed in the Art Nouveau style and will be amazed to know that This place was built more than 100 years ago.
If you want an even deeper look, you can explore the Eiffel Tower with an experienced guide. They will tell you all about the structure and its past stories. This tour allows you to climb 704 steps, bypassing the hordes of people waiting in the elevator while enjoying different views of the city along the way.
Besides visiting the tower, the Champ de Mars and Trocadero area around the Eiffel Tower will also be great places to explore.
The grassy area at the base of the tower is perfect for picnicking, camping, and views from the Trocadero. The Seine River is one of the best places to take pictures.
6. Grand Palace Brussels, Belgium
In Brussels, talking about the most famous tourist attractions, people immediately think of the Grand Palace. The central square is surrounded by the town hall, museums, commercial centers, and large hotels and is the place where the busiest cultural and tourist activities take place in Belgium.
History of Grand Place Brussels
Grand Square – Brussels Place Grand is a marketplace where merchants and citizens trade goods. A very interesting thing about the streets around the square is that they are placed according to the type of food. Examples: butter (Rue au Beurre), herbs (Rue du Marché aux Herbes), cheese (Rue du Marché aux Fromages, etc.)
As the city grew, the area appeared more large buildings, and the Grand Place was formed and protected to this day. Most of the buildings were rebuilt or restored after the city of Brussels was attacked by France in 1695.
The Grand Place has been used as a town square since the 12th century, but it has also been the scene of some traumatic events in Belgium’s history. During the 16th and 17th centuries, hundreds of people were executed in the square for various reasons. Witches and protesters were burned on stakes, while rebels and other traitors were beheaded.
Brussels’ central square La Grand-Place is one of the oldest monuments in the Belgian capital. Today, the market stalls are gone, but the square is still steeped in history. Come to the square for a taste of history right in the heart of the city.
Visiting the Grand Place Brussels
For centuries, La Grand-Place has been filled with vibrant food stalls. The main function of the area at that time was a food market and residents of the whole city of Brussels flocked here to buy fresh food from the farms in the area. Many important buildings of typical 3-stage architectural style surround the square, including the Town Hall. La Grand-Place is Brussels’ most prestigious landmark and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1998.
Upon arrival at the square, visitors will also have the opportunity to admire some of the city’s most important buildings. The top of the gothic tower of Brussels City Hall rises high above the square and is recognizable from all corners of the city. The Bread House is located nearby, in the former baker’s area of the market, decorated with numerous tower tips and detailed statues. The buildings around the square are in Gothic, baroque, and Louis XIV architectural styles.
The Big Square is also famous for its “flower carpet”, in mid-August in even-numbered years this festival is held and attracts a lot of visitors. There are over 500,000 flowers of all colors blue, red, purple, and yellow which are combined together to form a perfect picture.
Visitors will easily find many traditional Belgian restaurants in this area, however, prices also correspond to the central location and are often not cheap. You can try Turkish or Mediterranean dishes in the surrounding streets for much more affordable prices.
Once in your life you are set foot here, standing in the middle of the Grand Place in Belgium, you will not be in vain and no longer pay attention to the sometimes expensive price, to admire one of the masterpieces. about planning – architecture of humanity has existed for many centuries, hidden in it the depth of sadness and pride.
7. The capital, Edinburgh, Scotland
A tourist destination in Europe known for its year-round street, food and music festivals, the capital, Edinburgh. Owning many ancient architectural works such as castles located on the mountainside, old houses and winding brick roads in residential areas.
History of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and the second-largest city in Scotland. The city is located in the South East of Scotland, on the east coast of the Central Belt of Scotland, on the south bank of the Firth of Forth, and on the North Sea coast. Due to its location on hilly terrain and its numerous George and Medieval houses, Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most impressive cities.
Edinburgh has been the capital of Scotland since 1437 (replacing Scone) and is the seat of the Scottish Parliament. It was one of the great centers of the Enlightenment, led by the University of Edinburgh, hence its nickname the Athens of the North. The Old Town and New Town areas were recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage sites in 1995. The city has 4,500 buildings listed as buildings of special historical and architectural significance. According to the 2001 census, Edinburgh had a total population of 448,624.
Edinburgh is famous for its annual Edinburgh Festival, which lasts for the first 4 weeks of August. Famous festivals in this series of festivals are the Edinburgh Fringe (the world’s largest performing arts festival), the Edinburgh International Festival, and the Edinburgh Military. Tattoo, and the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
Some other highlights include Hogmanay Street Festival (December 31), Burns Day (January 25), Saint Andrew’s Day (November 30) and Beltane Celebrations (April 30). The city is one of the major tourist attractions in Europe, attracting almost 13 million visitors a year, making it the second most visited city in the United Kingdom, after London.
Interesting things about Edinburgh
The city nicknamed the Athens of the North has a wealth of things to offer that millions of tourists visit every year. Edinburgh is a city of literature, festivals, art, architecture, food and even the long traditions and historic heritage of Scots. Here are our reasons to convince you to come to Edinburgh this summer.
House of multiple festivals
The most famous is the Fringe Festival, which honors cultures and the arts, and is held every August with the participation of more than 50,000 artists, and 4,000 shows in 300 locations.
Edinburgh is also the host of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, the International Science Festival, the Scottish Traditional Arts Festival, the International Book Festival… We don’t even have space to name the countless celebrations. music, art, beer, wine, vegetarian food more. This is enough for you to see how Scots have a year-round festival so their hearts are open.
Remarkable Architecture
Edinburgh possesses medieval architecture, any stranger or even the people of Edinburgh will be mesmerized by the buildings and streets.
From architectures from the time of Kings George (1714-1830) to buildings steeped in medieval architecture or contemporary architectural masterpieces such as the Scottish Parliament, we go from wonder to other admiration. Each architectural work has hidden historical and cultural stories of this land.
City of Book Lovers
Edinburgh is seen by book lovers as a literary city, a pilgrimage site for book lovers, and an endless source of inspiration for writers. Any place can be associated with a scene somewhere in literary works.
The city has a museum dedicated to writers and a monument to Scott (in honor of writers). You can also visit the Balmoral Hotel where writer J.K. Rowling completes Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows or quotes from famous literary works in the Makar building.
Paradise for Gourmets
Fresh salmon, traditional cakes, seasonal vegetables, and Scottish beef are famous foods throughout Europe. Edinburgh owns very good chefs, from popular restaurants to luxury restaurants with several Michelin stars, and the food is impeccable. Enjoying food in the ancient space of ancient architecture or sitting on the side of the old town makes us feel like we are back in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The country of Harry Potter
No need for writer J.K. Rowling admits that everyone knows that Edinburgh is the source of inspiration for the famous author of Harry Potter. J.K. Rowling wrote the first chapters of the work that went viral around the world in a small coffee shop in Edinburgh.
The scenes described by the writer in the story from the streets, buildings, and even the names of the characters are also inspired by this city. A visit to Edinburgh is of course not possible to visit the original Hogwarts castle, Tom Riddle’s tomb, or even visit the hotel room where she completed the final chapter of this wonderful work.
8. Stockholm, Sweden
If you choose Sweden as a tourist destination in Europe, you should come here in the summer, taking advantage of the atmosphere of the biggest summer festival of the year.
Stockholm was founded in the middle of the 13th century, located on the east coast of Sweden (Scandinavian region) consisting of 14 small islands connected by 50 bridges in an archipelago of 24,000 islands between Lake Malaren and the Baltic Sea.
More than 30% of the capital is canals, nearly 40% is green space with parks and trees, Stockholm has a cleaner climate than any other capital of the world. If Venice is a city on the sea, then Stockholm is a city on islands on the sea. Ferries, boats, canoes are popular means of transport here besides buses, trains, subways… Stockholm archipelago surrounds the capital with 24,000 small islands, stretching over 80km, only about more than 1,000 islands. is inhabited.
Most of them are wild and natural, suitable for the weekend camping hobby of the Swedish people. The “tent houses” with double facilities for people to immerse themselves in nature, make friends with the forest and the sea. Sweden is one of the most forested countries in the world, with an area of one and a half times that of Vietnam but the population is only 12%.
Unlike many countries, Swedish forests, whether owned by the state or privately, must share benefits with the community. People can go to any forest to pick strawberries, pick mushrooms – products not only for consumption but also for export and many other products from the forest, except for logging. They have strict conventions to protect the forest’s resources, and divide the responsibilities and benefits of the community very specifically.
Undoubtedly “One of the most beautiful cities in the world”, Stockholm has too many places to go, too many places to see, too many places to shop by not enough time. The old town of Gamla Stan – the heart of the capital – is a “giant open-air museum”, perfectly preserved since the 13th century. This old town is located on 3 islands: Riddarholmen, Staden, Helgeandsholmen and has a lot of concentration. Ancient architecture in Renaissance style from the 17th century.
The Royal Palace of Sweden (Kungliga Slottet) is considered the most special architecture of Stockholm. This is the royal residence, the place where important national events take place, where many antiques of the Royal Family are displayed: crowns covered with jewels, national treasure swords, ancient armors, Unique saddles, costumes of fierce warriors. Next to the Royal Palace is Storkykan – a simple brick church from the early 14th century, now the cathedral of Stockholm.
This is where coronations, weddings and religious ceremonies of the royal family take place. The interior of the cathedral is splendidly designed in the Baroque style with many vivid sculptures from the 15th century depicting the legends of Saint George and the sacred dragon, royal benches, including a throne. giant gold.
Blue sea-green trees-blue sky and ancient architectures are still proud of each other. Stortoget – the main square of the old town is surrounded by hundreds of ancient buildings. The “small streets – small alleys” faithfully wait for visitors with narrow cobblestone walkways under their feet as if they want to hold on to nostalgia that time cannot erase. The scenery is picturesque, visitors are hesitant to go – stay, everyone wants to record every image as a gift for friends.
9. Santorini Island, Greece
The Mediterranean sea paradise is famous for its vast ocean on one side, blue and white dome houses on the mountainside on the other. The romance, minerality and charm of Santorini are ready to conquer all tourists.
10. Lagos Beach, Portugal
Lagos is an especially lively beach paradise in the summer. If you are a surfing or boating enthusiast, then Lagos is the destination that could not be more appropriate.
11. Costa del Sol, Spain
The town of Costa del Sol is a famous tourist destination with its ancient beauty, where there are city walls, ancient castles, seafood restaurants and beautiful beaches such as Burriana, Duque, and Torrecilla. In Spain, Costa del Sol means “Sun coast”, a sea that is warm and enjoyable all year round.
12. The town of Zermatt, Switzerland
The town is known as the “clean lung” of Switzerland, one of the places with green and romantic beauty. This is where the Matterhorn peaks into the blue clouds floating in the snow-covered Alps.
13. Alhambra Castle, Spain
This ancient architecture made a splash with the Korean drama “Memories of the Alhambra”. With a characteristic Islamic style and many unique abstract images, every corner of this castle creates a mysterious and ancient beauty. The Alhambra is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist attraction in Europe.
14. The Colosseum, Italy
The building is considered one of the most beautiful symbols of the Roman Empire. Currently, the Colosseum is an extremely popular tourist attraction in Europe. In addition to sightseeing, visitors also enjoy exhibitions or concerts during major events or festivals.
15. London Eye, England
This is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Europe, including world-famous superstars. London Eye gives you an ideal viewing point at a height of 135 meters to see the whole city beautifully, especially when the lights are on.
Final thought
Top News hopes this article can help you learn more about the top 15 destinations in Europe and wishes you all the best on your traveling journey!