Holiday guide
The best of Europe
Given its extraordinary diversity in landscapes, culture and experiences, it’s hard to believe Europe is the second-smallest continent. But its compact size means you can pack a huge amount into a holiday. Traveller’s guide to the best of Europe will help you make the most of your time.
Which European destination is best? We rate and rank key rivals
Greece v Turkey. Germany v Austria. Spain v Portugal. We name the winners from a travel perspective when it comes to Europe’s key rivalries.
- Ute Junker
Secrets of the happiest country on Earth
What is happiness? One country appears to have figured it out, having topped the World Happiness Report rankings for the past eight years. Clearly, they’re doing something right.
- Rob McFarland
Can you travel without cash in Europe?
Across eight countries in Europe, six of which do not use the euro, I attempted to travel without getting out any cash. I succeeded (mostly).
- Tim Richards
- Opinion
After 15 years in this European city, I can say it’s the world’s best
I agreed with the view Amsterdam is too expensive, too crowded, and has too many tourists. Then I broke my leg and my whole perspective changed.
- Ben Coates
Forget Bordeaux. This underrated French wine region is calling
This French wine region is a sleeper hit, an unlikely hero. Less known than many of its European neighbours, it’s also more affordable and more accessible.
- Ben Groundwater
A quirk of history let me visit four countries in a single day
This isn’t your typical Italian hilltop village, as much as it might look like one from the outside.
- Chrissie McClatchie
The prettiest wine region in Europe? It’s not in France
Despite its World Heritage listing, the Wachau valley is little-known to people outside its home country.
- Craig Tansley
One of Europe’s prettiest capitals is also one of the quirkiest
Beyond its cobblestone streets, Baroque architecture and photogenic setting, this Slovenian city is full of quirky attractions.
- Rob McFarland
Small packages: 20 tiny places in Europe that punch above their weight
The Continent’s biggest countries and cities are becoming increasingly crowded. All the more reason to discover Europe’s tiny treasures.
- Ute Junker
Beyond the cliches and crowds: Europe’s 10 best underrated destinations
Once you’ve copped a sunburn in Florence and nursed a rosé hangover in Aix-en-Provence, where in Europe do you explore? Where do you discover the next Tuscany?
- Ben Groundwater
- Opinion
I missed my son while he was backpacking the world, so I joined him on an adventure
I suggested we meet up in Europe for an epic hike. To sweeten the deal, I offered to pay for it.
- Anabel Dean
Underrated, affordable Poland is Europe’s perfect destination
Fancy a trip to Europe but worried about the cost? Try the route less travelled and head for Poland, the affordable heart of the Continent.
- Sue Williams
It’s tough, but I’d do this cycling holiday again in a heartbeat
My hands are so numb I can’t feel the handlebars. My enthusiasm for cycling – and possibly life itself – is dissipating.
- Garry Maddox
Europe’s most beautiful islands are nowhere near the Mediterranean
The Lofotens are made up of hundreds of islands but wherever you are, the scenery is stupendous.
- Brian Johnston
Visit this underrated European city before it becomes the next big thing
You’ll get new perspectives on an old continent, sights without queues, gritty history, and throbbing contemporary energy.
- Brian Johnston
From perfect to don’t bother: The best cities in Spain, ranked and rated
Few countries offer such a choice of urban splendours, which is why you’ll need this guide to the great and not-so-great cities.
- Eddi Fiegel
Beyond Rome and Venice: 15 of Italy’s most underrated destinations
Italy is crowded, no question, but there are plenty of Italian places beyond Rome, Venice and Florence still ready and waiting to welcome visitors.
- Brian Johnston
Ten great attractions in Europe most Australians don’t visit
Step off the well-trodden European trail for deserts, national parks and castles that most Australians don’t see.
- David Whitley
Secrets revealed: The last unspoilt islands of Greece
Beyond Mykonos and Santorini, there are still corners of the archipelago that only locals know about. Here are 10 of the best.
- Kerry Walker
Ten of the best family things to do in Europe outside peak season
While Christmas-centric Europe in December is a wonderful time to visit, there’s a treasure trove of experiences for families to enjoy outside of the peak season.
- Tatyana Leonov
Avoid dodgy tourist traps: Where to eat near Europe’s top attractions
It’s possible to have a memorable meal in the shadow of a famous attraction – you just need some insider knowledge.
- Oliver Smith
Nine essential tips for travelling Europe on a budget
Remember: Europe isn’t just France, Italy and Spain. But even in the most popular spots you can still keep your travel expenses down.
- Ben Groundwater
Trains v cars: Which is the better option for travelling in Europe?
There are arguments for and against road and rail travel, but it all depends on your circumstances. Here’s what you need to know.
- Brian Johnston
Seven ways to keep cool in sweltering southern Europe
If you travel through southern Europe during the hottest part of the year, you’ll need a little respite from the sun. Here are seven of the best ways to keep cool.
- Maria Pasquale
- Destination guide
Destination guide: Rome
Your ultimate guide to where to stay, eat and the must-see highlights.
- Destination guide
Destination guide: Paris
Your guide to where to stay, eat and the must-see highlights.
- Destination guide
Destination guide: London
Your ultimate guide to where to stay, eat and the must-see highlights.
- Opinion
Ten things we’ll never understand about the Dutch
An indifference to privacy, uncanny cycling abilities and a cringeworthy Christmas tradition are just some of the Netherlands’ cultural quirks.
- Brian Johnston
- ★★★★★
Ranked Europe’s best train station, this hub lives up to the hype
It’s no surprise that the best station experience in Europe is in a country where the trains run like clockwork.
- Anthony Dennis
Built to keep people out, transformed castle now the UK’s most welcoming
A five-year renovation has transformed an 11th-century castle into the UK’s most accessible heritage attraction.
- Rob McFarland
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