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Few sights in Europe are as recognisable as the Eiffel Tower. Built between 1887 and 1889, the 984-foot (300m) tower’s design is the result of a competition, which received more than 100 submissions. The winning entry, featuring an open-lattice wrought-iron structure, was opposed by some of the most prominent figures in Paris at the time, who thought it would be an eyesore. It’s anything but, of course – in this stunning shot its remarkable symmetry is mirrored by the Jardins du Trocadero in the pastel-hued evening light.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, CroatiaKadagan/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.M.kkHNn1OEUEA9jqz4z7w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/03988a15bc57219db0bc42d3703698d9>
Bursts of bright blue rooftops set against pristine white facades are what make Santorini so unique. The Greek island, located in the most southerly part of the Cyclades group of islands in the Aegean Sea, is home to a sprawl of interconnected buildings which teeter on the edge of volcanic-formed cliffs, making for incredible views all round. Pictured here is the village of Oia on the north of the island.
Buda Castle, Budapest, HungaryZGPhotography/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1bFpnx2ilGI1U5dtzbcCRg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/e3d14cfe437dc667241e06d14fc32dd4>
ZGPhotography/Shutterstock
At the heart of historic Budapest, Buda Castle sits on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube river and Pest on the eastern bank. Originally, a fortress was built on the site in the 13th century until the reign of Maria Theresa in the mid-1700s, when it was replaced by a large Baroque palace, which has since been damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Despite its turbulent history, the castle, lit up at night in this spellbinding shot, has a tranquil feel about it today.
Preikestolen, NorwayNanisimova/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/NyEfG5ysv4sMZIi.nydmRQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/f4a29332790eddc5e317f6e75f403cbd>
A dramatic rock platform towering 1,982 feet (604m) above the Lysefjord, the vertigo-inducing plateau of Preikestolen was formed approximately 10,000 years ago: a glacier froze in the cracks of the mountain, forcing giant rocks to fall down the valley sides and creating a neat shelf. It’s no wonder that this natural wonder is a hit with hikers today, as it offers sweeping views of the fjord and the surrounding mountains.
Amalfi Coast, ItalyNanisimova/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/cPXQJNKHEFCGaJzcQvmUqw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/c71e7748e3bc2be70b50e75bdc47a85e>
Encompassing a roughly 31-mile (50km) stretch of Italy’s southwestern coast, just above the ‘foot’ of the country’s boot, the Amalfi Coast is a mesmerising mix of verdant forests, craggy rock faces and higgledy-piggledy cliffside towns. Home to an abundance of well-known spots including Positano, Amalfi, Ravello and Sorrento, this stretch of Mediterranean coastline is about as picture-perfect as they come.
Louvre Museum, Paris, FranceTTstudio/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pVEC52Lb82BGRwQeSHFN6Q–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/33b382c7dd69f9af926d66f0e10632fb>
Northeastern Italy’s Dolomites range oozes rugged charm. With the tallest 18 of its razor-sharp peaks reaching heights of more than 10,000 feet (3,050m), it’s certainly not short on dramatic views, either. Pictured here is a stretch of the Giau Pass, a popular hiking and cycling route in the region.
Isle of Skye, Scotland, UKDreamer4787/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lOUpGJKQz1rs5VdKW.FDSw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/4745b8f357758239405528bda4a8c1c9>
Situated on the southern Adriatic coast, the UNESCO-recognised Old City of Dubrovnik is tucked within sturdy old walls, which are 6,365-feet (1,940m) long in total, flanked on each side by craggy limestone cliffs and the dazzling Adriatic Sea. Containing an array of historic monasteries, churches and mansions, it’s no wonder this perfectly preserved old town has served as a location for a whole host of films and TV series, including Game of Thrones and Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germanyblstq/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4TzkDWicLe3FKfaHbkXEnQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/c664f3ec838b4a0c8907f29bcb17c2ac>
Located in the lake region of Salzkammergut, between Salzburg and Graz, breathtaking Halstatt is among Austria’s prettiest places. No two days in the enchanting region are the same: by winter, the town’s rooftops and surrounding peaks are dusted with snow, spring and summertime see the valley brought to life in shades of vibrant green, and in autumn the craggy peaks turn shades of red, gold and burnt umber.
Lapland, Finland and SwedenStevanZZ/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DiRECt1TWeURQsgSoII4XA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/59c23b9203cb412ff060652e08d06bef>
Southern France’s Provence region is synonymous with its vibrant lavender fields, which start to bloom in June and are harvested by August. The incredible scents and sights of lavender aren’t all the region has to offer, though. Provence is a feast for all the senses, with bountiful fresh produce, scenic views and charming medieval villages putting it high on many travellers’ bucket lists.
Acropolis, Athens, GreeceiLongLoveKing/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/rcDQny9q9lXNQpooLJs7sQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/e5a9ed253c694f411aa88b0073daab97>
iLongLoveKing/Shutterstock
Legend has it that the Giant’s Causeway, located on Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast, was created by Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (or Finn McCool), so that he could travel to Scotland to defeat his enemy, Benandonner. Made up of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns which reach out into the Irish Sea, the Causeway certainly has an ethereal feel to it in this mist-draped shot.
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spaindimbar76/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2rPEyhtcx0laLKMGx9ZaEQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/c2a00461cadb968bff0d2d21799c0371>
An architectural masterpiece designed by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona’s one-of-a-kind Catholic church combines an eclectic mix of Art Nouveau, Catalan Modernism and Spanish Late Gothic design. Despite the fact construction began in 1882, the church remains incomplete – and with building works continuing to this day, the Sagrada Familia is a fascinating and ever-changing landmark.
Hosios Loukas, GreecePyty/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KLQkGEOiwyJngNQXeqsgBQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/a325e712cae4c61c9b95817924fbf644>
Prague Castle is thought to be the largest ancient castle in the world, at 1,870-feet (570m) long and an average of about 420-feet (128m) wide. Made up of several Baroque and Gothic structures, the castle complex has served as the seat of Czech monarchs and heads of state right from when construction began on the site in the 9th century. The intriguing castle looks especially spellbinding when lit up at night.
Sistine Chapel, Vatican CityRPBaiao/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1qteZ0zarmeY3uduaUbiCQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/a8b0e8fc1ca7e47f2e55c20351c3e29a>
Built in the late 15th century, the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican City is best known for its ceiling, which boasts Renaissance frescoes by Michelangelo that depict scenes from the Bible. The chapel’s exterior, meanwhile, is simple and unassuming, leaving little hint of the treasures that lie inside.
Verdon Gorge, Francepichetw/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/lmHnKqnkVMSJb7ceKPTCcw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/3e5c8187c22847a501c24163f830d479>
The ultimate emblem of grandeur and excess, the Palace of Versailles was originally built for Louis XIII (King of France from 1610–43) and was famously the one-time residence of Marie Antoinette. Located 12 miles (19km) southwest of Paris, this opulent palace – which holds around 5,000 pieces of antique furniture and 6,000 priceless paintings – served as the French royal family’s home until the Revolution, which began in 1789.
Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst, Hungary and SlovakiaTainar/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Srjn8uNtDepmEg8RWfy3fQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/08ff89ce874704ba83190072db401785>
Filled with the intriguing, myriad forms of stalactites (icicle-shaped formations that hang from the cave’s ceiling), and stalagmites (inverted stalactites that rise up from the floor), the Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst are a spectacular sight. Situated along the Hungarian-Slovakian border, they contain the largest stalactite cave system in Europe.
Durmitor National Park, MontenegroTsuguliev/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/nkF_mZJF9DnVAzwBQwNu1Q–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/4481e98239f958d9b99bb7f865851583>
Spain’s pink-water lake might look like the effect of some heavy photo editing, but in fact it’s dyed by a combination of a particular type of bacteria, halobacterium and a type of micro-algae, dunaliella salina, which thrive in its salty waters. The area can also be home to up to 2,000 flamingos during breeding season, fitting in beautifully with the rose-coloured lake.
Grand Canal, Venice, ItalyYasonya/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/DmTcyRw7gYcIu1ifoqZbiw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/d6b29e3fe8e47b493fea98e415bd1518>
Venice is home to some 150 canals, the biggest and most well-known of which is the Grand Canal, which slices through the city in an S-shape to form its major water traffic corridor. With its colourful waterside buildings, bridges and gondolas, the Venetian attraction is one of Italy’s most enchanting and time-honoured.
Belem Tower, Lisbon, Portugalzkbld/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/h1SR8_ooq65e36LAD8IYTg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/bf6c3150d3fe7d474f014193a446226f>
Less well-known than Lake Bled yet just as awe-inspiring, Lake Bohinj is a large glacial lake located within the Bohinj valley of the Julian Alps. Captured here in the clutches of autumn, the lake’s panoramic views and peaceful atmosphere make it one of Slovenia’s most alluring attractions.
Caucasus Mountains, GeorgiaSimonaKoz/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/vaUAIXRTP3ZL.3irTY1NIg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/c971abb3417bc82c22fe9c3749d7bc9a>
The Kravice waterfalls are located on the Trebizat river, southwest of the city of Mostar, and cascade off a limestone deposit into jewel-like waters, with some falls as high as 83 feet (25m). Set in a landscape of unspoiled forests, these enchanting waterfalls are among Bosnia and Herzegovina’s best-known attractions.
Kirkjufell, IcelandLemonade1412/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/1yvBK00z3e0qt2ILQDJlXQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/a09c96290439750937997c59bc9fbc17>
Lemonade1412/Shutterstock
The picturesque Lake Lucerne, surrounded by mountains, is a natural beauty known for its unique shape, with several arms extending into different regions. Nearby Mount Pilatus, accessible by the world’s steepest cogwheel railway or a scenic gondola, offers sweeping views of the Alps and surrounding lakes. The city of Lucerne itself sits on the lake’s shores, offering a perfect base for exploring this beautiful region.
Lake District, England, UKDaniel_Kay/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/9uyP.eq_RRs3BNFkIvgP3g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/f88c94f7905fe19a666f8501217a5e95>
Known for its glacial lakes, rolling hills and mountains, the Lake District in northwest England is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers breathtaking views and endless outdoor activities like hiking, boating and exploring charming villages. The area is also famous for its literary connections, having inspired poets like William Wordsworth and authors such as Beatrix Potter.
Rhine Falls, Schaffhausen, Switzerlandmapman/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/aUBfwt0_RQARAwRYdThV4w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/a83420a4de881fe7295e309eeb4dc661>
Located near the town of Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland, Rhine Falls is the largest waterfall in Europe, with a width of 492 feet (150m) and a height of 100 feet (30m). The powerful flow of the falls, especially during peak seasons like late spring and early summer, creates an awe-inspiring natural spectacle. Visitors can take boat tours that bring them right up to the base of the falls, where they can feel the spray of the roaring water. For those who prefer to stay dry, several scenic viewing platforms provide panoramic views of the waterfall’s might and beauty.
Wachau Valley, Lower Austria, Austriaecstk22/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/8BtIGvWoRQ.XRPngLz5edg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/f8ec46e7200c9f5a827199991733fdd5>
The Wachau Valley, located along a scenic stretch of the Danube River in Lower Austria, is bursting with rolling vineyards, medieval castles and charming historic towns like Durnstein and Melk. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for producing world-class wines – visitors can enjoy tastings at local wineries. The region also boasts stunning architecture, including Melk Abbey, a Baroque masterpiece, and the ruins of the 12th-century Aggstein Castle (pictured).
Now discover the overpriced tourist attractions and their cheaper alternatives
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