If you’re looking for the best beaches in Europe, keep your eyes peeled for one thing: the Blue Flag. This international accreditation carries the seal of approval for cleanliness, conservation, and quality when it comes to the best beaches around the world. This short but sweet list of hand-picked locations is equal parts variety and consistency in visitor experience.
Unlike air travel with its chaotic security lines and trip-ruining delays, or driving with its parking challenges and navigation stress, train travel in Europe offers a uniquely relaxed way to witness the changing landscapes, architecture, and cultures as you cross borders. For the truly adventurous traveler, the flexibility of an interrail pass is unparalleled. Hop off a few stops early to explore a hidden gem town recommended by the friendly locals you met in the cafe car. Or reschedule your ticket and stay one night longer to buy a bit more time with that lovely person you locked eyes with across the market. While train travel is considered slow travel, it’s never time wasted.
Ireland’s rugged coastline provides the perfect habitat for one of the world’s most beloved seabirds – the Atlantic Puffin. Puffins in Ireland have become iconic symbols of the country’s diverse coastal wildlife. Unfortunately, climate change and habitat destruction threatens their existence. So while seeing puffins may be a bucket list item for many travelers, it’s important to observe them responsibly.
Solo travel as a woman can be freeing but also a little intimidating, especially if you’re heading somewhere remote. Few places in Ireland get more remote than County Kerry. I’m based in Dublin, but when presented with the opportunity to get out of the city for a long bank holiday weekend, I seized it. Full disclosure: this was my first road trip alone! Unless you count my dog, which I do, so it was a great starter solo trip – like traveling solo in light mode. Luckily, Kerry has everything you could ever want to do and more in Ireland, so I knew we’d be too busy to be lonely. Read on for my solo female traveler tips, things I’d do differently next time, and the full four-day road trip itinerary through Kerry, Ireland.
In 2025, Europe and the United Kingdom began rolling out a new digital makeover entry system for various inbound foreign nationals. While Americans and other visa-exempt globetrotters have long enjoyed relatively hassle-free European adventures, these new pre-travel authorization systems are like getting a virtual hall pass before your grand European tour. They’re not a replacement for the current short-stay visa system, but rather an additional small but necessary step to keep international travel running smoothly in our increasingly connected world. Familiarize yourself with these new digital requirements, which promise to replace passport stamps with algorithms and streamline the border control experience upon arrival.
Few places in Europe combine outdoor activities, art, and history better than Leipzig, Germany. This castle-dotted hamlet–located just over an hour by train to the south of Berlin–is a mecca for cyclists, kayakers, and classical music aficionados. Find out why it tops our list for destinations not to miss in Europe, below.
For those who just can’t get enough time on their skis, we have a solution: a holiday in the Italian Dolomites at Dolomiti Superski. A collection of 12 resorts with an unparalleled 1,200 kilometers (745.6 miles) of skiable terrain, there are few places on earth that compare. Here’s our recommendation on how to fit the most into a week-long trip in the Dolomites.
The Italian Dolomites are legendary—literally. It’s not just their storybook beauty that has us clamoring to book a flight, but the fact that this winter hotspot is home to 12 world-famous ski resorts, family-owned-and-operated lodging, and so much more. If the breathtaking photos don’t convince you, here are five additional reasons why you need to bump Dolomiti Superski to the top of your winter bucket list.
Explore the beautiful island of Menorca, part of Spain’s Balearic Islands, while respecting its unique environment and culture. Recent anti-tourism demonstrations throughout Spain have highlighted the growing concerns of over-tourism, which can strain local communities and natural resources. We visited just a few days after some of the biggest demonstrations on the islands in recent years. Not only did we not want to be a nuisance during our visit, we also wanted to avoid putting ourselves in any potentially dangerous positions. No one wants to feel unwelcome on vacation, but it’s important to visit with grace and understanding. This guide emphasizes responsible tourism practices, encouraging visitors to engage with Menorca’s rich heritage, support local businesses, and minimize their ecological footprint. By traveling responsibly and visiting with respect, you can contribute to the sustainable development of Menorca, ensuring its charm and natural beauty are preserved for future generations.
Ireland, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is known for iconic attractions like the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin’s Guinness brewery. However, beyond these well-trodden paths lie hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the adventurous traveler. From secluded beaches and charming villages to ancient islands and mystical mountains, Ireland is brimming with lesser-known places that offer a glimpse into the country’s enchanting beauty and unique history.
Ireland as an independent country is relatively young, and more still it only joined the European Union in 1973. With this status change came new funding and support for infrastructure across the island, including improved rail service. Today, much of Ireland is well connected by a rail network that is also supplemented by coaches and ferries. The more than 7 million annual visitors (that’s about as much as the country’s resident population) can enjoy exploring Ireland safely and sustainably by taking advantage of these transportation opportunities.
The more color the better at these diverse festivals found all around the world! From food fights to festive fetes, these are some of the liveliest parties happening throughout the year in countries around the world.