Europe

A Complete 7 Days Travel Itinerary for Barcelona Sightseeing This section outlines day by day plan of all the best things to do in Barcelona. The attractions have been arranged based on proximity and time required to explore them. Though this section covers almost all Barcelona tourist attractions, you can rearrange them based on your hotel location. You can also alter it depending on the number of days you have planned to visit Barcelona. DAY 1 1. SAGRADA FAMILIA Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, this artwork of a building is perhaps the most popular among places to visit in Barcelona. You will need at least an hour to admire the genius of the architecture of Sagrada Familia and its interiors. 2. AVINGUDA DIAGONAL This is a road that divides Barcelona in half, running diagonally from west to east. This road holds some of the popular Barcelona attractions for sightseeing, dining, shopping, and more. You can take a glance at what the street has to offer in 30 to 45 minutes. 3. CASA MILA Also known as La Pedrera, this apartment building is known for its unusual architecture and design. It too was designed by Antoni Gaudi. As only residents are allowed in the building, you can only admire it from the outside. It shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes to do that. 4. CASA BATLLO, CASA AMATLLER & CASA LLEO MORERA Collectively known as the block of discord, all these buildings are works of Antoni Gaudi. Like Casa Mila, there isn’t much to be seen inside the buildings. Take 15 minutes to admire each of these buildings from the outside and move on to other Barcelona tourist attractions. 5. PLACA DE CATALUNYA This large square is surrounded by several historical things to see in Barcelona. You can enjoy the views of the city from the square and spend 30 minutes clicking pictures with different buildings and streets in the background. 6. LA RAMBLA La Rambla is a long boulevard street stretching for over a kilometer. This is one of the most happening places to visit in Barcelona lined with tourist attractions, cafes, restaurants, nightlife spots, shops and more. It will take you 30 to 40 minutes to walk the entire boulevard. 7. LA BOQUERIA This huge indoor market sits at one of the entrances of La Rambla. You will find all sorts of stuff at this market. If not for shopping, it is a great place to learn about the local culture and people. You can easily spend 30 to 45 minutes strolling about the place. 8. PLACA REIAL Also known as the Royal Square, this huge public square is the center of Barcelona’s old town. Like Placa de Catalunya, you can easily spend half an hour clicking pictures and admiring the Barcelona top attractions which surround the square. 9. PALAU GUELL Palau Guell or Guell Palace is a UNESCO world heritage site and was designed by Antoni Gaudi. You will need at least one hour to explore the entire palace. 10. COLUMBUS MONUMENT This monument dedicated to explorer Christopher Columbus is located at one end of La Rambla. There is nothing to explore inside the monument, you only need 15 to 20 minutes to admire the monument from all sides. DAY 2 1. PALAU DE LA MUSICA CATALANA This palace is another UNESCO site among places to visit in Barcelona. You will need about one hour to explore the exterior and interior of this tourist attraction. 2. MUSEU FREDERIC MARES This museum is dedicated to the private collection of Frederic Mares. It has numerous works of art in form of sculptures and paintings. You need about 2 hours to explore this museum. 3. BARCELONA CATHEDRAL This cathedral is home to the archbishop of Barcelona. It is also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. You will need about an hour to explore this Barcelona attraction. 4. PLACA DEL REI Also known as King’s Square, this place is also surrounded by medieval buildings which are among Barcelona tourist attractions. You can take 30 minutes at the square to explore these from the outside. 5. HISTORY MUSEUM OF BARCELONA This museum is home to the historical journey of the city. You can see artifacts going back to the very first settlements in the region. It is one of the most important historical places to visit in Barcelona. You will need about 2 hours to explore the museum. 6. MUSEU PICASSO The name says it all. It is a museum dedicated to the famous artist Pablo Picasso. There are numerous works by the artist displayed in the museum. You can easily spend 2 hours here. 7. SANTA MARIA DEL MAR Also known as Church of Saint Mary of the Sea, this church represents one of the finest works of architecture to visit during Barcelona travel. You will need an hour to explore this 14th-century masterpiece. DAY 3 1. JARDI BOTANIC The botanical gardens would require an hour and half of your time if you choose to explore them thoroughly. 2. MONTJUIC Originally known as the Hill of Jove, this 200-meter-high hill is a popular place to visit in Barcelona, especially for the locals. You will need more than 2 hours to explore this place in its entirety. 3. FUNDACIO JOAN MIRO This museum exhibits wonderful works by Catalonia’s artist Joan Miro. You will need about 2 hours to explore all the exhibits in this museum. 4. OLYMPIC AND SPORTS MUSEUM (MUSEU OLIMPIC DE I’ESPORT) This museum is dedicated to the Olympics and sports in Catalonia. It also sheds light on the 1992 Olympics which took place in the city. You will need one hour to explore various things to see in Barcelona’s sports at this museum. 5. ARCHAEOLOGY MUSEUM OF CATALONIA (MUSEU D’ARQUEOLOGIA DE CATALUNYA) This is the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia, popularly known as MAC. You will need an hour and a half to explore the exhibits here. DAY 4 1. NATIONAL ART MUSEUM OF CATALONIA (MUSEU NACIONAL D’ART DE CATALUNYA) The Museum of Art of Catalunya, also called

This ‘low-lying’ country resides in the vast plain of northwestern Europe. It has an alternate name Holland, which was given to one of the medieval cores that are now part of the modern state and is still in use for 2 out of the 12 provinces of the country. The area is still among the most popular places to see in Netherlands travel. The country is a parliamentary democracy functioning under a constitutional monarch. Initially habituated by the Germanic tribes- the Frisii, Nervii, and Batavi. The Batavi on the Roman frontier resisted Rome’s rule till the 13th century and later joined them as allies. You can learn about these tribes at many of the Netherlands tourist attractions namely the archaeological museum and national history museum. Following the war between the United Provinces of the Netherlands and Spain, the country’s independence was recognized in 1648.  With the foundation of the Dutch East India Company in 1602, Holland became one of the prime colonials and marine powers of Europe. You can still explore many buildings which centered on the operations of the Dutch East India Company when you visit the Netherlands. Being the most densely populated country in the world, it has very interesting cities, beautifully preserved nature, and varied landscapes, always fresh by the wind from the sea. The majority of the best places to visit in the Netherlands are located along the coastline of the country. This is the country where the visitor is astounded by light. No wonder the Dutch gave a number of talented painters to human civilization. Many people just visit Holland to gain inspiration for their art or to study the lives of great artists who lived in the country. Along the long coast of the North Sea (451 km) at the west and north-west, the climate of the Netherlands is typical of a mild maritime climate, wet and mild, and the winters are rarely strong, the summer is never sweltering. The urban and rural scene of the Netherlands is often famous for cycling, especially on the routes like Dunes of Texel, the Hoge Veluwe, and Zuid-Kennemerland. Many of the Netherlands’ tourist places are also popular for their hike trails. The engineering marvels like Flevoland- a territory developed out of the sea, and Zeeland’s delta works are acknowledged among the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and attract a fair share of visitors. May it is the beautiful tulip fields, canals, flatlands, clogs, windmills, or tall and progressive Dutch people; any single reason is enough to make you visit Holland. Cities to Visit in The Netherlands 1. AMSTERDAM This national capital is where chaos meets serenity. Amsterdam is one of the quirkiest places to visit in Holland with elegant museums, long canals, elite galleries, fabulous pubs, and shopping places. 2. LEIDEN A picture-perfect place with ethnic windmills, wooden bridges, lush parks, and tree-lined canals; Leiden is a haven for solo travelers and leisure seekers. It is among the best cities to visit in the Netherlands to enjoy canal boat rides and bicycle city tours. 3. THE HAGUE This is a contemporary city that reflects royalty and class with every inch. Situated by the Northern Sea, the Hague is amongst the most exquisite Netherlands tourist spots with luxurious stores, regal art galleries, and comfy coffee eateries. 4. HAARLEM Unofficially called ‘Bloemenstad’ or ‘the flower city,’ Haarlem is a tranquil district with a small community to explore during the Netherlands tour. The stunning architecture, peaceful streets, and cozy coffee shops include it in the things to see in the Netherlands. 5. ROTTERDAM It is among the most important ports in the country and has been deeply associated with the maritime history of the country. This is a city you should visit on the Netherlands vacation if you want to see vintage ships, dockyards, and ports. 6. ZAANSE SCHANS This town takes you back to pastoral life when you visit Holland. It is known for barns, wooden houses, windmills, and beautiful green pastures. This place makes you feel that you are in an 18th-century European village. 7. UTRECHT This city is considered by many to be the heart of the Holland region. The city is steeped in medieval history and is said to have been built around the iconic Domtoren bell tower, which is among the most historically significant Netherlands tourist spots. 8. MAASTRICHT This city, like Utrecht, is known for its medieval roots. More specifically, Maastricht is known among places to go in the Netherlands for well-preserved medieval architecture. It is also a university city and has developed a happening life for young residents. 9. GIETHOORN This is a car-free village bristle with wooden houses and canals for boats to travel about. It is among the most wonderful things to see in the Netherlands. You almost feel like part of a fantasy land while exploring this quaint town. 10. KINDERDIJK This village is among the best places to visit in Holland to see 18th-century windmills. These marvels still manage part of the water system of the village. It also has many wonderful museums dedicated to the region. 11. VOLENDAM This town sits on the banks of Lake Marketmeer and is among the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. The town is popular among tourists for its colorful wooden houses and lake activities. It also has several interesting museums dedicated to costumes, music, art, and so on. 12. DELFT This town is most associated with Delftware, a style of hand-painted blue and white pottery. This town too has well-established medieval roots being the Seat of Power for the Royal House of Orange. From historical buildings and museums to Delftware workshops, there is no shortage of Netherlands sightseeing spots in this town. 13. EINDHOVEN This is the hub of technology and design in the country. It is known for being the birthplace of Philips Electronics. It is explored most for modern developments during Netherlands travel. 14. GRONINGEN This city is most associated with its shipbuilding history. It is a quiet and beautiful city. If you enjoy exploring places to see in the Netherlands on boats

France or officially République Française is the cultural jewel of Northwestern Europe. The places to visit in France are among the most famous places in the world. The country is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, the Alps and the Pyrenees. It is a bridge between the northern and southern Europe. You will notice that many of the top things to do in France reflect this amalgamation of two sides of Europe. Thanks to the French colonies stretching across the globe, France is a crucial player in international dealings and holds a vast historical influence among the Western nations. The widespread economic, linguistic, and geographic importance of France makes it one of the most powerful nations in Europe. The country is Europe’s one of the foremost agricultural manufacturers and industrial players. France travel is highly admired by vacationers as it has all-or more or less. It has some of the biggest beaches in Europe, the highest mountains and the finest historical landmarks, the most beautiful towns, the most idyllic landscapes, the most majestic castles, the most beautiful rivers and much more, not to mention some of the best restaurants and the most excellent wines and hotels. Some of which can be considered France tourist attractions in their own right. Be it the scrumptious food like 350+ more types of cheese, wine, quiche, mousse, croissants, etc. or luxuries like branded perfumes, and cars it is a dream come true for the expats. For the history and culture aficionados, French museums and galleries are a delight. France is also for the leisure seekers as there are plenty of areas in the deepest rural France that are still far removed from the beaten track. The southern region is among famous places in France for its natural beauty and scenic coastline. For camping holidays, gite holidays, or those who are happy to live in small rural inns, many regions in France offer wonderful vacation opportunities away from it all. The country has an extensive network of motorways, many of which offer relatively relaxed driving conditions, except during peak periods. Off the motorways, driving on the back-roads of France can be a way to discover the pleasures of a road trip, a way to discover the country. The roads do indeed make trip to France more interesting. The country’s literary, scientific and artistic legacy can be countersigned in the works of Marie Curie, Andre Marie Ampere, Gustave Eiffel, Napoleon Bonaparte, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas and so on. It is one of the most well known countries in the world and has produced some of the most famous people in history. Almost all of them have museums dedicated to them which you can visit as you explore France attractions. Best Cities to Visit in France 1. PARIS Paris usually tops the list of best cities in France, it is certainly the most famous city in the country. This city is known for tis rich history and vibrant culture. There is hardly any introduction needed for one of the most famous cities in the world. 2. NICE This city is quite similar to Paris but has the added advantage of being on the French Riviera. Many of the best places to visit in France concerning history, architecture, beaches and culture are located in Nice. 3. MARSEILLE This city is popular among France tourist places for its historical seaport and beautiful coastline. The city has a history going back 2,600 years. The city is also well known for its seafood and seafront restaurants. 4. BORDEAUX The old town part of this city, like many on this list, is register as UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history and cultural roots of this city go back beyond Roman Times, though it gained prominence only at that time. The city has numerous important France tourist places to explore. 5. MONT SAINT-MICHEL This is not a city but an a fortified island with a grand castle atop its hill. It is one of the most fascinating places you would come across during France travel. 6. CANNES This city is well known for its renowned film festival, but there is much more to explore here besides the festival. The is known for its wonderful beaches and beach activities. It is one of the most happening and fun places to visit in France. 7. STRASBOURG This city is situated in north eastern part of France close to the border of Germany. You can clearly see a blend of two cultures in various aspects of this city. This blend makes Strasbourg a unique experience during France travel. 8. TOURS This is considered to be the gateway city for Loire Valley in France. This place is pretty popular among couples for its romantic vibes. There are not as many historical attractions as other popular cities, but enough to keep you engaged for a few days. 9. CHAMONIX This city is situated close to the border of Switzerland and is at the base of Mont Blanc. This makes it a popular winter destination among best cities in France. The city has a winter town like charm and is a wonderful addition for lovers of outdoors as well. 10. AVIGNON This city is popular for its annual arts festival which sees people from around the world coming to Avignon. It is known for its lively culture and adoration for both art and artists. 11. CORSICA It is an island in the Mediterranean Sea in the Italian peninsula. You will see a blend of French and Italian culture on this islands. This makes it a wholly unique place to explore for its culture, traditions, history and cuisine. 12. LYON This city is considered the country’s capital for excellent food. It is one of the best places to go in France to explore the culinary experiences of the nation. It also has several historical and cultural attractions commonly found in French cities. 13. TOULOUSE This city is located on southwest part of the country and is among the most beautiful places in France. It has a quaint charm which unlike any other

Austria is a country of south-central Europe predominated by mountains. The landlocked country forms the neutral core of Europe along with Switzerland. The two classic attributes of Austria are the Alps and the Danube River. Majority of the places to visit in Austria are around the Apls. Over 28% of the country’s landmass is overshadowed by the Alps. History suggests that the fatty mineral deposits of salt and iron attracted the Celtic people and enabled the foundation of a glorious civilization. The Celtics were a significant trade partner of the Roman empire by the first century, who later conquered this Nordic kingdom. Carnuntum: the capital of the Roman province of Pannonia in present-day Lower Austria was the most important Roman city in back then. These make up for majority of historical tourist attractions in Austria. After a rule of 500 years, Romans left the Danube region owing to tribal migrations. After a series of power shifts from the Bavarians, the formation of ‘Ostarrichi’by the Holy Roman Emperor, the Babenburgs, The Habsburgs, the Turkish wars, Baroque period and the French revolution, in 1867, a dual monarchy of Austria-Hungary was established by Emperor Francis Joseph. The Austro-Hungarian empire, brimming with ethnic conflicts and trapped in a rigid network of war alliances from the 19th century, was a tragedy waiting to happen. The remnants of the empire have become a major reason for people to visit Austria. Following the events of the First World War, Austria became the sole surviving state of this arrangement. The Austrian Treaty of State was authorized on May 15th, 1955, with Austria declaring its permanent neutrality. Austria quickly grew into a nerve center between the West and the East, thanks to its position close to the “Iron Curtain.” From Mozart to Freud, Austria has given some of the world-renowned marvels who shined in fields of politics, art, science, and sports. Austria tour is famous among expats because of its elite culture, classical music, vivid landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. There are enough things to do in Austria to fill up an entire month of vacation. This land of Mozart is calling you! The Best Places and Cities to Visit in Austria 1. VIENNA Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities to explore during Austria tour. It is one of the biggest hub of art and culture in all of Europe as well as one of the most significant cities in the history of Europe. Some of the most beautiful places to see in Austria can be found in Vienna. 2. EISENSTADT Eisenstadt is most known for the famous Esterhazy Palace. The palace is among the most important historical and cultural landmarks among places to visit in Burgenland, Austria. There are also several historical buildings to visit in Eisenstadt. 3. KLAGENFURT This town is popular as a getaway destination and is one of the most beautiful places in Austria. Lake Wothersee is perhaps the biggest attraction of Klagenfurt. It is the most popular city to visit in Carinthia state. There are art museums and historical buildings as well to visit in Klagenfurt. 4. VILLACH Villach is known for Lakes, Castles and Mountains. It is also among top 10 largest cities to visit in Austria. There are also several buildings exhibiting roman style architecture. It is a popular skiing destination in Austria. There are also great many adventure sports and outdoor activities to enjoy in Villach. 5. SALZBURG This is where the great maestro Mozart was born. The man has had a great influence on the city and there are many places named after him. Many admirers of classical music love to visit Salzburg on Austria tour. 6. INNSBRUCK Innsbruck is yet another great town among Austria tourist places for skiing and other snow sports. The town is also great for cultural experience and countryside festivals. Though people prefer to embark towards the mountains when they are in Innsbruck. 7. BREGENZ Bregenz is among the most wonderful Austria tourist places and is especially popular for vacations during summers. It is most visited for the mountains and the lakes. There are also art galleries, castles, museums and historical buildings to explore in Bregenz. 8. GRAZ Graz is included among UNESCO world heritage sites as well a UNESCO city of design. It is exceptionally picturesque. It is one of the most beautiful places in Austria. The town is known for colorful buildings and its culinary offerings. 9. LINZ Linz was European Capital of Culture and is still bustling with its creative liveliness. The city has many art centers, art galleries, cultural centers, historical buildings, museums and so on. It is one of the most amazing cities to visit in Austria.