Picture this if you will. A day spent walking the modern
streets of ancient cities, retracing the steps of prolific
thinkers like Shakespeare and Austen. Or perhaps it’s easier
to envision a morning spent sailing the Balkans, sun kissing
your face as you plunge into crystal clear waters.
Still not picturing it?
Standing atop the famous Swiss Alps should grant you a
clearer picture.
No matter what your passions, there’s one region that has it all,
experiences that will excite everyone from the foodies to
the thrill seekers. Prepare to be spellbound.
Welcome to...Western Europe.
Let’s start with the basics.
Western Europe is home to many of the classics one thinks of
when they’re dreaming of Europe. However, the exact list of
countries that make up this region is open to interpretation
depending on who you ask.
To keep things simple, we’ll be covering the countries most
commonly referred to as being a part of the Western European
family and leaving out our smaller friends like Vatican,
Andorra and Monaco.
Just who are these lucky nations?
Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece,
Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway,
Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and finally, the
United Kingdom.
Each of these proud nations boasts unique and enticing
qualities, specific to their rich heritages and varying
geographies.
Western Europe has been responsible for significant
historical events including little blips in history known as
The Renaissance, the Age of Discovery and also the Age of
Enlightenment.
And populations throughout Europe have grown faster than a
knight on horseback. The top five most populous countries in
Western Europe are: Germany, France, the United Kingdom,
Italy and Spain.
Now you’ll certainly want to brush up on your foreign
languages if you’re to enjoy the region thoroughly. Consider
memorising a few basic phrases in German, French, Italian,
Spanish and even Dutch.
Just a heads-up that if you don’t have time for some serious
studying you may want to stay away from Greek or Finnish -
which the Foreign Service Institute considers to be some of
the most difficult European languages to learn.
Once you’ve learned to parler en Francais or hablar
español you can get started on planning your adventure. But
where will you go first?
Why not explore Iceland, the original land of fire and ice?
Not only is it the safest country in the world, it’s also
home to countless geothermal spas to relax and rejuvenate
in.
Denmark, on the other hand, is considered the happiest
country in the world and is also a great choice for travel
what with their rich Viking heritage and cycling culture.
Austria is also worth your attention, especially considering
that the capital city Vienna, has once again been ranked the
city with the highest quality of life - for the eighth year
in a row.
Not hard to understand why when your greatest worry is
whether you should enjoy an after work beer at the
"Donaukanal" or go for a run through Empress Sisi’s summer
residence. - You know, the tough choices.
And now let’s take an even closer look to see what exactly
will be awaiting you on your journey through Western Europe.
For those of us who love the thrill of the great wide open,
Western Europe has an impressive selection of
adrenaline-pumping adventures to choose from.
If you’re a fan of breathtaking vistas paired with a healthy
dose of exercise then hike the Alps in summer or get out
your skiing gear in winter. You’ll want to check out the
Salzkammergut in Austria, the Puez-Geisler nature park in
south Tyrol-Italy or visit the French alps.
If you’re visiting the Netherlands, race your bikes along
the beautiful canals of Amsterdam or enjoy them by boat.
Of course, paying your respects at the Anne Frank House also
makes for an unforgettable experience.
Not afraid of chilly temperatures? Then go snowmobiling,
Fjord trekking or dog sledding on Norway and Finland’s snowy
hilltops.
Norway, in particular, offers expansive views of rich,
mesmerising greenery. Just take a stroll through
Sognefjorden to instantly fall in love with our Scandinavian
friends.
Should lady luck be on your side you may even get to catch a
glimpse of the bewildering northern lights.
In both countries you have options to go wildlife watching
and spot majestic elks, oxes, polar bears and reindeer.
And if rainy weather also doesn’t deter you, then swing by
Ireland and drive the scenic loop, Ring of Kerry or tread
the Cliffs of Moher.
You can learn to surf or perfect your mastery of the waves
while exploring Spain’s La Concha Beach, a favourite among
the surfing community. And for the regular ole beach bums
out there enjoy glitzy waterfront clubs like
Marbella’s Costa del Sol, Mundaka, El Brusco or pretty much
anywhere in the Basque country. Y
ou should also consider hopping over to Portugal and unwind
on Praia do Guincho beach, made famous by its appearance in
a 1960s James Bond film. Or you can head to Algarve, and
enjoy a more off the beaten track beach (with less
international men of mystery present) by visiting Praia da
Rocha.
And once you need to let your hair down, you should consider
setting sail in Greece. Hop from one island to the next and
enjoy life on deck, on foot or on quadbike.
For the cultural enthusiasts out there, Western Europe also
has something to offer you.
Considering this region is the birthplace of modern Western
culture, it isn’t the least bit surprising that there are
countless cultural icons waiting to be discovered.
Art lovers should pay a visit to Amsterdam if only to stop
by The Van Gogh Museum and celebrate one of the most famous
post-impressionist painters of our time.
A visit to Italy will also be required as you’ll want to
explore the Roman Empire’s impressive heritage, not to
mention their jaw-dropping architectural feats like the
Roman Colosseum, the Pantheon, La scala opera house, and of
course, St Mark’s Cathedral.
History buffs will also enjoy time spent in the UK. Britain
has the Tower of London, Palace of Westminster, and of
course the classic: Windsor Castle.
In Germany top sights like Sanssouci Palace or Brandenburg
Gate await you. Smaller less crowded destinations such as
Wittenberg or the flawlessly preserved medieval town of
Rothenburg ob der Tauber are also great options. - Try
saying that one ten times fast!
Wannabe composers should consider a visit to The Vienna
Opera House an essential bucket list item. After all
Austria’s capital city nurtured the talents of composers
like Mozart and Beethoven!
Of course, Western Europe is also home to unique and
exciting festivals that happen throughout the year. Spain
has La Tomatina, San Fermin, and Las Fallas.
Germany hosts the iconic Octoberfest and the lesser known
Stuttgart Festival. The Carnevale di Venezia is held in ---
you guessed it, Venice, Italy!
There’s King’s Day in the Netherlands, St. Patrick’s Day in
Ireland and for the equestrians there’s The Royal Ascot in
England.
You may also wish to experience Malmofestivalen in Malmo,
Sweden, the Oslo Jazz Festival in Norway, the Flow Festival
in Finland, or even airwaves in Iceland -- all great music
festivals.
The good news is that there’s never a bad time to visit
Western Europe.
Overall, the climate of Western Europe simply depends on
which country you find yourself in.
On the southern coast of Spain you’ll enjoy subtropical and
even desertic climates while Mediterranean countries like
Greece can be dry and warm. The farther west you go, the
more mild and humid you can expect it to be--great for those
of us who avoid the cold. Iceland is a bit of an anomaly,
but that’s a story for another time.
No matter what kind of weather you enjoy, you will want to
know when peak seasons for tourism start and finish.
The low season is considered November to March, where the
days are shorter and chillier. During this time you’ll want
to pack anything from a hoodie and warm coat to full on
winter wear, including boots and thermal socks.
The benefit of visiting during colder months like November
and December are that you’ll be able to partake in Europe’s
famously charming Christmas markets!
During April to May as well as September to October, crowds
will still be limited but in the southern countries of
Western Europe you should still plan for hot temperatures
and pack light clothing and a swimsuit -- though the
Mediterranean and Atlantic may still be very cold.
And finally, we’ve reached the high season, which happens
from June to August. Temperatures are highest and enjoyment
is arguably at its highest as well.
Pack shorts, t-shirts, layers for the evenings and most
definitely your best swimsuit! Expect exceptionally warm
temperatures in all countries with the exception of our
Scandinavian friends.
Average temperatures will be comfortable at around 20
degrees celsius but not quite bikini-appropriate we should
add.
After you’ve explored Europe’s backyard, you will certainly
need to unwind. After all, you’ll have earned it.
Lucky for you, there are fewer places better suited to
indulge your taste buds than Western Europe.
And what exactly can you expect to find at the breakfast
table?
Throughout German-speaking Europe, so in countries like
Austria, Germany and Switzerland, but also in countries like
Denmark & Luxembourg you’ll be sitting down to a platter of
bread, cheese, thinly sliced meats - often some smoked ham -
jams, yogurts, and even soft boiled eggs. Pair all of this
with a hearty cup of coffee and there’s no better way to
start your day abroad.
If you have a sweet tooth then France, Italy or Spain would
be an ideal place to wake up next to a variety of
croissants, cappuccinos, coffees, and fruits. Spain, in
particular, is famous for its thick, hot chocolate paired
with a fried churro for dipping! Need we say more?
Once the afternoon rolls around you’ll find yourself with an
entirely new selection of items on your European menu.
Adjust your belt accordingly.
For the carnivores watching, you will not be disappointed.
In Austria you must try the Wiener Schnitzel, a veal or pork
cutlet expertly breaded and tenderly fried.
If you’re in Belgium, be sure to sit down for a serving of
carbonnade beef and chicken or fish chowder called
waterzooi. Of course, you’ll need to save room for the
famous, fluffy Belgian waffles, topped with strawberries and
cream.
Moving on to France, you’ll be sitting down to famous dishes
like boeuf bourguignon which simply put, is beef in red wine
sauce.
In Southern France, you’ll enjoy a Mediterranean inspired
menu with dishes that heavily rely on garlic, herbs, and
vegetables. Sampling a serving of ratatouille, essentially
mouthwatering vegetable stew, is an absolute must.
And in Germany, you’ll be presented a selection of food that
makes carb lovers like us drool with excitement.
Feast on bratwurst sausages, creamy potato salads, crispy
schnitzel, rich bread, and of course Weißwürste with fresh
pretzels.
If you’re passing through Netherlands get ready for generous
servings of herring, light cheeses like gouda and edam and
large portions of soup, french fries, meat and vegetables!
If you’re a fan of fish then a visit to Portugal is an
absolute must. After all, it’s said that the average
Portuguese enjoys about 45 kilograms of seafood every year.
Cod is the most popular fish, with sardines, salmon, and sea
bass also up for grabs. If you’re feeling adventurous give
the eel, squid, octopus, and lamprey a try.
During most meals, you will also be served a side of soup,
most commonly caldo verde (which directly translate to green
soup), made with cabbage, sausage, potatoes and olive oil.
Somewhat of a culinary dark horse, Ireland boasts its own
unique dishes for the bravest of foodies out there.
Start with simple but delicious soda bread, often enjoyed
with a spoonful of honey, sugar or dried fruits. Then munch
on boiled bacon and cabbage before sitting down to a bowl of
traditional Irish stew, served with a side of potato
dumplings or pancakes, it’s up to you.
And just in case you still aren’t full, the Hellenic
Republic, or Greece for short, will gladly top you off. Sit
down to enjoy a generous helping of souvlaki - carefully
created by grilling deliciously tender meats and vegetables
on a skewer and then presenting it on a plate with fresh
pita, fried potatoes and a touch of tzatziki, which for the
unfortunately uninitiated, is a sauce made from salted
strained yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and olive oil. Kali
Orexzi!
Of course, the Greek islands have plenty more to offer
foodies from its gyros to its moussakas but we’d be keeping
you here all day!
Now that we’ve covered what foods will hit the spot we need
to address a very serious topic: what will you quench your
thirst with and where?
Before you leave the fabulous Greek islands, be sure to
sample a cold instant coffee (similar to a frappé at your
local coffee chain) and drink up the ouzo, an
anise-flavoured aperitif similar to sambuca.
Across the rest of Europe, you can rest assured knowing that
copious amounts of delicious wines will follow you wherever
you go.
Sample authentic champagne and delicious cabernets while in
France, before lapping up the sweet, red, fortified Port
wine Portugal is famous for. Other wine regions that deserve
a visit include of course Italy’s Tuscany, Burgenland in
Austria and Rioja in Spain.
Not an amateur wine connoisseur? No problem considering that
many Western European countries are also superb brewers.
Do yourself a favour and begin in Ireland, where 60 percent
of all alcohol consumed is beer.
Of course you’ll need to try perhaps the most famous Irish
beer, Guinness, a dry stout with a thick, creamy head before
also giving crisp summery lagers like Harp a go.
The United Kingdom, Germany and Belgium also share equal
credits when it comes to a long, impressive history of
brewing excellence.
While in the UK give the local favourites a try, grab a pint
of Newcastle Brown or Hobgoblin, or a bottle of London Pride
to enjoy on a sunny day in the park.
Next we have Germany, an unsurprising choice when you
consider that they’re responsible for Octoberfest, an annual
celebration of beer that’s so popular it’s sparked copycat
versions around the world.
Be sure to put classic pilsners from Bavaria’s countless
breweries on your list, but don’t forget to try a Weißbier
or Schwarzbier too.
And if you’re travelling through Belgium -- you’re in luck
because, you guessed it, their beer is also world class!
Brewed by Trappist monks in Southern Belgium, Chimay has it
all - it’s fruity, strong, deep in body and even a little
spicy with a hint of nutmeg and thyme. Other honourable
mentions worth the hangover include the refreshing wheat
beer Hoegaarden and the smoky brown Corsendonk Pater Noster.
Once you regain control of your senses, you’ll be ready to
carry on your adventure through Western Europe, a
region that can never be finished exploring.
From the Alps to the Atlantic and everywhere in between, the
great wide landscapes of Western Europe are as diverse as
they are unforgettable.
We hope you’ve enjoyed scratching the surface with us. If
you still can’t get enough then check out Days to Come for
more inspiration and travel tips. If you’re ready to go,
visit tourradar.com today.
Until next time and as they say...
au revoir, antio sas, auf Wiedersehen, uf Widerluege,
arrivederci, adiós, tchau, heippa, vaarwel, adjö, had det
and bless.