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Here’s how Taylor Swift has updated her Eras tour setlist for Europe (so far)

The Eras tour setlist now features secret songs and tracks from her brand-new album, The Tortured Poets Department

Taylor Swift is almost midway through the  European  leg of her Eras Tour – time flies, doesn’t it!? The pop queen has brought her sparkling three-hour-plus show to cities including  Paris , Stockholm , Lisbon , Madrid , Lyon , Edinburgh and Liverpool  so far, and Swfities across the continent have really been in for a treat.

After the release of her brand-new double album, The Tortured Poets Department , there was a lot of speculation that the Eras Tour setlist might change to include a section of newbies from TTPD. And Taylor, as per, did not disappoint.  Seven songs from her new mega-record were performed on the tour’s first night in Paris, and they’ve become a mainstay on the tour – videos of Taylor belting lyrics from ‘Who’s Afraid of Little Old me?’ and skipping along to ‘I Can Do It With a Broken Heart’ have been dominating For You pages and Explore feeds everywhere. 

And while most Swifties will agree Mother can achieve pretty much anything, the new TTPD additions did mean a handful of songs had to be cut. So, here’s the adapted setlist for the Eras Tour in Europe. 

RECOMMENDED: Everything you need to know about Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in the UK

This is the full confirmed Eras Tour setlist, in order, based on the first Paris show:

• Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince
• Cruel Summer
• You Need to Calm Down
• You Belong With Me
• We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together
• I Knew You Were Trouble
• All Too Well (10-minute version)
• … Ready For It?
• Don’t Blame Me
• Look What You Made Me Do

Folklore/Evermore (now combined into one Era)

• champagne problems
• illicit affairs
• my tears ricochet
• Blank Space
• Shake It Off
• Wildest Dreams

The Tortured Poets Department (new!)

• But Daddy I Love Him
• So High School
• Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?
• The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived
• I Can Do It With A Broken Heart

Surprise songs

• Paris (from Midnights)
• loml (from TTPD)
• Lavender Haze
• Midnight Rain
• Vigilante Shit

And these are the songs that have been removed:

• The Archer (from Lover era)
• Long Live (from Speak Now era)
• the 1 (from folklore era)
• the last great american dynasty (from folklore era)
• ’tis the damn season (from evermore era)
• tolerate it (from evermore era)

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Celebrity Style

All Of Taylor Swift's New Eras Tour Looks

Her wardrobe still makes the whole place shimmer.

Taylor Swift is staying bejeweled. The singer revamped the Eras Tour when she resumed it for four shows in Paris from May 9-12. It featured her first performances of the Tortured Poets Department songs, but she did more than just change up her setlist .

Throughout the weekend, Swift debuted several new outfits, representing almost all of her 11 studio albums with a fresh look.

Some eras, like 1989 , got a complete overhaul, with Carrie Bradshaw - inspired mismatched shoes and Easter egg-filled dresses, while others were refreshed with each act’s aesthetic in mind.

The Fearless Era

Swift brought the crowd back to high school with her new Fearless dress. For her first Paris show, she wore a beaded tank dress from Naeem Khan with shiny gold, silver, and black fringe, complete with custom black Christian Louboutin boots.

The Speak Now Era

Swift’s Speak Now era is all about romantic princess dresses, and she continued to deliver new iterations in Paris. On Night 1, she debuted a lavender-hued custom Reem Acra gown with crystal swirl embellishments and seashell-esque pleats.

The Red Era

The singer debuted three new custom Ashish T-shirts — based on her iconic “Not A Lot Going On At The Moment” look — with clever sayings that either thrilled or puzzled Swifties. On May 9, Swift came out wearing a tee that read “This Is Not Taylor’s Version.”

The following night, her shirt read “I Bet You Think About Me,” after her Red (Taylor’s Version) v ault track, and for her final Paris show, she paid tribute to her hit “I Knew You Were Trouble.”

The 1989 Era

Swift truly shook it off (or rather, shook it up) for her new 1989 looks, swapping out her monochrome sets for mismatched outfits — all the way down to the shoes, à la Carrie Bradshaw. For her first show, she wore a sequined pink ombré bra top and glittery mermaid blue skirt, with one shoe in each hue.

The following nights, she went for an orange and purple combo, and then a green and pink, all designed by Roberto Cavalli with custom Christian Louboutin shoes.

For her fourth and final show, she subtly paid tribute to her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce, by wearing his team colors of yellow and red.

The Reputation Era

The only Eras Tour outfit that Swift has yet to change is Reputation’s black and red one-legged bodysuit. The most common fan theory is that she’ll finally switch up the look when she announces Reputation (Taylor’s Version) .

The Lover Era

Swift got fiery in the City of Love for the Lover era, debuting a sparkling orange Versace bodysuit with matching ombré boots from Louboutin.

And of course, she threw on a matching blazer for “The Man.”

The Folklore + Evermore Era

For the revamped Eras Tour, Swift combined the Folkore and Evermore eras into one act, and even reflected that in the wardrobe. At her first Paris show, she wore a yellow version of her flowy Folklore gown as a nod to her Evermore wardrobe.

The following night, she debuted a new magenta-hued version. Both dresses were custom-designed by Alberta Ferretti.

The Midnights Era

While it’s no longer her newest album, Swift still refreshed her Midnights look in Paris, debuting a purple chevron-patterned bodysuit by Zuhair Murad with triangular side cut-outs, halter-top neckline, and a fringe hem.

The Tortured Poets Department Era

Swift added The Tortured Poets Department act to the show. For her first look , she donned a white Vivienne Westwood gown with a corset, high-low skirt, and “Fortnight” lyrics written all over.

But before the act’s final song, “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart,” Swift did an onstage costume change, revealing a daring no-pants look. She stripped down to a black bra top and high-waisted underwear before putting on a circus-ringleader-style jacket. She debuted white and silver versions of this get-up the following nights.

With over 60 shows left and two Taylor’s Version re-recordings on the way, there’s no telling how Swift will switch up her wardrobe going forward.

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Brittany and patrick mahomes share sweet embrace during taylor swift’s ‘lover’ performance at eras tour in amsterdam.

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The Mahomeses are back at the Eras Tour!

Brittany and Patrick Mahomes shared a sweet moment during Taylor Swift’s Saturday night concert in Amsterdam — nearly one year after the quarterback played cupid by inviting the tight end to the singer’s show in Kansas City.

Brittany, 28, and Patrick, also 28, were seen swaying and embracing in the audience as Swift played her hit tune “Lover.”

🏟️| Patrick and Brittany Mahomes swaying with Travis singing his little heart out #AmsterdamTSTheErasTour pic.twitter.com/le6BMv9FVv — Taylor Swift Updates 🩶 (@swifferupdates) July 6, 2024

The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback’s wife hinted the pair were flying over from London on Saturday morning, cryptically posting from the airplane, “To our next destination we go.”

She then posted a photo from the crowd with her friend Miranda, while dancing in a black sparkly pajama top.

Fans took video of the couple standing near Travis Kelce, who was dressed casually in a white T-shirt and a baseball cap.

Kelce attended her Friday night show as well and was spotted kissing Swift’s head as they exited the show together.

Both Kansas City Chiefs stars spent a bit of time exploring Europe before meeting up in Amsterdam.

While Kelce joined Swift in London and Dublin last month, the Mahomeses spent a few days in Portugal before heading to Spain and then London, where they attend Morgan Wallen’s Fourth of July concert and took in Wimbledon on Friday.

Brittany kept her Instagram followers up to date with their summer vacation, posting several photos alongside her and Patrick’s two kids, Sterling Skye, 3, and Bronze, 1.

The family of four even color-coordinated some of their vacation looks, with the mother-daughter duo wearing matching orange swimsuits during their beach-side getaway.

Meanwhile, Kelce and his brother, Jason Kelce, kicked off their Euro summer at the Cannes Lions Festival last month before meeting up with Swift.

During a panel, the brothers also spoke about how Travis’ relationship with the pop star has brought a whole new group of listeners to their “New Heights” podcast.

“We do have a lot of new football fans coming in,” the Super Bowl champ, 34, shared. “So not just talking football like we would in the locker room, trying to, like, necessarily dumb it down or make it more simple so that everybody can follow along and still enjoy the show.”

Jason, who has three daughters, said he loves that the podcast is helping girls “get involved in a sport where previously there wasn’t much interest.”

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After their quick stop in France, the brothers jetted to London to watch Swift, also 34, take the stage at Wembley Stadium, where they met Prince William.

While Jason, 36, was there for her first two nights, he missed his younger brother’s surprise cameo during the “Tortured Poet’s Department” set.

Despite that, the soon-to-be broadcaster had nothing but praise for the “amazing” concert.

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Patrick, Brittany Mahomes join Travis Kelce for Taylor Swift Eras Tour

Josh sanchez | jul 7, 2024.

Patrick Mahomes and wife Brittany continued their European tour before the Kanas City Chiefs star quarterback begins training camp to prepare for the upcoming season.

After taking in the sights and sounds of Wimbledon, the couple jetted off to Amsterdam to reunite with some familiar friends.

The Mahomes' liked up with Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce and made the trip to the Johan Cruyff Arena Saturday night to take in the latest stop of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour.

Brittany documented their travels on social media.

PHOTOS: Patrick Mahomes, Brittany flaunt their style at Wimbledon

After Wimbledon, Patrick and Brittany Mahomes flew to Amsterdam to reunite with Travis Kelce and take in the Taylor Swift Eras Tour. pic.twitter.com/yA8Acnlamj — The Athlete Lifestyle (@AthleteLifeSI) July 7, 2024

Eagle-eyed concertgoers spotted the Mahomes' with Kelce in a box enjoying the show.

They drew enough attention while they were singing along with Swift's biggest hits that an entire section of the crowd was more focused on them than the show on the stage.

PATRICKKKK pic.twitter.com/WAuozdJXLp — 😹 (@YungMahomes) July 6, 2024

That's power.

It's the first time we have seen the Mahomes' at an Eras Tour stop, but the Amsterdam show fit in perfectly with their recent travels. The couple has been traveling across Europe with their two children, and previously made stops in Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and London.

It likely marks the end of an eventful offseason for Mahomes and Kelce, who recently wrapped up their second straight Super Bowl championship.

There is no word on whether Brittany will extend her European stay for extra time with her newfound bestie.

Training camp for the Chiefs kicks off on July 20, but Kelce is also scheduled for the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament from July 10 to 14, so he'll have to jet back to the states soon.

Swift, meanwhile, continues her tour with stops in Zurich and Milan, before traveling to Germany in the middle of July.

—  Enjoy free coverage of the rich and fabulous players from The Athlete Lifestyle on SI  —

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'I'm going to approach this completely differently': Taylor Swift talks Lover tour

Taylor Swift has spoken exclusively to Music Week about her live plans for the Lover era, which will see the superstar singer-songwriter play a series of festivals rather than do her own stadium tour.

Swift’s highly-acclaimed, all-conquering Reputation Stadium Tour set new benchmarks for production, and was the top-grossing US tour of 2018, with $277.3 million (£216m). But the Lover era – which was launched with an intimate show in Paris that saw Swift play many songs acoustically – has prompted her to try a different live approach.

In her Music Week cover story last week , as well as talking about the new-found freedom granted by her new record deal with Republic and her experiences as a young woman in the music industry , Swift reminisced about how she would draw the stage designs for her early tours way in advance of the actual dates. And she said she was still applying the same forensic attention to detail in her career nowadays.

“Oh, definitely,” she told Music Week . “And that’s why it’s still fun for me to take on a challenge like, ‘Let’s just plan our own festival, let’s do this live component to Lover differently’. Rather than doing a stadium tour just like the one we just did, let me go to these countries that I haven’t been to, that have been so supportive and wonderful, let me play some festivals and have experiences that I haven’t had before.”

After her headline set at Capital's Jingle Bell Ball in December, Swift is playing multiple festival dates next summer, including Roskilde in Denmark, Open’er in Poland and Mad Cool Festival in Spain. In America, Swift will play two curated LoverFest events, with two dates in Los Angeles and two in Foxborough.

“I thought, ‘Let’s create two festivals in America and create a bill of artists and really just try and make it as fun as possible for the fans’. In LoverFest East and West I’m playing in the round, so I’ll be surrounded by people in a stadium in a way that I never have been before. I’m so intrigued by what that’s going to be like.”

Her UK touring plans are expected to be announced shortly. But Swift said the intimate style seen in Paris – and featured in the Reputation Tour ‘surprise songs’ section – could have an influence on her live approach this time around.

“I had a really good time with that show,” she said. “There is something really fun about just going through the back catalogue and playing all the songs people have heard on the radio, stripping down some things, playing songs from Lover.

“I love to really create the live show based on what the music is on each album,” she added. “Reputation was like a rock opera: it was an opportunity to create almost a musical, but within a stadium, dark, edgy capacity. I’m going to approach this completely differently because the music is so different and it’s really more about fitting with the music rather than creating huge massive intricate visuals around it. Yes, I want to have great visuals, but I don’t want anything to be over-shadowing the songs, because the songs are so important to this particular incarnation of the live show.”

* To read last week’s Music Week Taylor Swift cover story, click here . To subscribe to Music Week and never miss a vital music biz story, click here .

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Taylor Swift Announces ‘Lover Fest’ at NFL Stadiums, European Tour Dates

Swifties rejoice! Taylor announced the first dates on her upcoming "Lover" tour on Tuesday (Sept. 17), which will kick off on June 20 in Belgium.

By Gil Kaufman

Gil Kaufman

Taylor Swift finally announced some Lover tour dates on Tuesday (Sept. 17).

Dubbed “Lover Fest West” and “Lover Fest East,” the two-night stadium stands are being tagged as her only U.S. dates in 2020. And, in true Taylor fashion, she will blaze a trail by being the first woman in history to open an NFL stadium, when she becomes the inaugrual artist to perform at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on July 25 and 26. 

Swift will also play two nights at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts on July 31 and Aug. 1; opening acts for the U.S. shows will be announced soon. Existing Taylor Swift Tix Verified Fans will have the chance to RSVP starting today for Preferred Presale Access here .

The public on-sale for the shows is Oct. 14, 2019, with registration for new Verified Fans opening on Thurdsay (Sept. 19) at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT. Swift tweeted out her excitement about the outing, writing, “The Lover album is open fields, sunsets + SUMMER. I want to perform it in a way that feels authentic. I want to go to some places I haven’t been and play festivals. Where we didn’t have festivals, we made some.”

The Lover album is open fields, sunsets, + SUMMER. I want to perform it in a way that feels authentic. I want to go to some places I haven’t been and play festivals. Where we didn’t have festivals, we made some. Introducing, Lover Fest East + West! https://t.co/xw6YMN38WE pic.twitter.com/IhVPQ8DMUG — Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) September 17, 2019

It's Nice to Have a Mentor: Taylor Swift Is Returning to 'The Voice'

The tour will kick off on June 20 at Werchter Boutique in Werchter, Belgium, with seven more dates slated in Germany, Norway, Denmark, Poland, France, Portugal and Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Check out the full list of dates below.

June 20 — Werchter, Belgium @ Werchter Boutique

June 24 — Berlin, Germany @ The Waldbühne

June 26 — Oslo, Norway @ Oslo Sommertid

July 1 —  Roskilde, Denmark @ Roskilde Festival

July 3 — Gdynia, Poland @ Open’er Festival

July 5 — Nîmes, France @ Festival de Nîmes

July 9 — Oeiras, Portugal @ NOS Alive

July 18 — Sao Paulo, Brazil @ Allianz Parque

July 25 — Los Angeles, CA @ SoFi Stadium

July 26 — Los Angeles, CA @ SoFi Stadium

July 31– Foxborough, MA @ Gillette Stadium

Aug. 1 — Foxborough, MA @ Gillette Stadium

        View this post on Instagram                   For me, the Lover album is open fields and sunsets and SUMMER. I want to celebrate the album and perform it live with you in a way that feels authentic to the music. I want to go to some places I haven’t been, and play festivals for the first time in ages…and where we didn’t have festivals, we made some. Introducing, Lover Fest East and West. Details and additional dates coming soon! TaylorSwift.com A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) on Sep 17, 2019 at 7:27am PDT

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You are currently reading the article dedicated to Lover Fest. You may have been looking for the album or the song .

The tour was rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and was later announced canceled.

• 1 Background
• 2 Covid-19 delay
• 3 Coronavirus cancellation
• 4 Stage design
• 5 Promotional images
• 6 Tour dates
• 8 References

Background [ ]

On September 17, 2019, the tour dates were released on Swift's official website. 8 of the dates are at pre-organized festivals and 5 US dates titled Lover Fest West and Lover Fest East in stadiums. It was also announced that more dates for the UK and internationally would be revealed soon.

Covid-19 delay [ ]

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Taylor postponed, and then cancelled the Lover Fest. She sent out a message on social media reading, [1]

Coronavirus delay message posted by Taylor

The message states that the Brazil and U.S. dates are scheduled to resume in 2021, with new dates still to be decided. Also, starting May 1st, Ticketmaster will offer refunds for tickets to Lover Fest.

Coronavirus cancellation [ ]

Cancellation posted by Taylor

In early 2021, Taylor announced that she would no longer be rescheduling concert dates.

Stage design [ ]

When the tickets went on sale for the US show dates, a stage design was unintentionally leaked by Ticketmaster, as well as a scrapped stage for the SoFi Stadium shows. It featured a 360° heart-shaped stage in the middle of the venue. The scrapped stage design was a mix between the 1989 World Tour and Reputation Stadium Tour stages.

Promotional images [ ]

Tour dates [ ]

• The concert in Brazil would've been Taylor's first official show in the country.
• The tour would've been Taylor's first visit to Denmark, Poland, and Portugal.
• Lover Fest would've been Taylor's second tour show in France.
• Lover Fest West would've been the grand opening event for SoFi Stadium.

References [ ]

• ↑ https://twitter.com/taylorswift13/status/1251193743912456192?s=21
• 1 List of Taylor Swift's ex-boyfriends
• 2 Mary's Song (Oh My My My)

Taylor Swift Announces How She'll Be Touring Lover: 4 U.S. Lover Fest Dates and Festivals Abroad

Taylor Swift isn't going on a traditional stadium tour for her new album, Lover . This time, she's doing festivals, the singer announced... and creating four festival dates of her own to perform her new album next year.

"The Lover album is open fields, sunsets, and SUMMER," she tweeted. "I want to perform it in a way that feels authentic. I want to go to some places I haven’t been and play festivals. Where we didn’t have festivals, we made some. Introducing, Lover Fest East + West!"

There's a history-making element to Swift's tour plan. The singer will become the first woman to open an NFL stadium during her Lover Fest West performances in Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium.

These are the 2020 dates she'll be playing so far. Note she only has four U.S. shows, two on the East Coast in Massachusetts and two on the West Coast in Los Angeles. Good luck to all seeking tickets.

June 20 - Werchter Boutique (Werchter, Belgium)

June 24 - The Waldbühne (Berlin, Germany)

June 26 - Oslo Sommertid (Oslo, Norway)

July 1 - Roskilde Festival (Roskilde, Denmark)

July 3 - Open'er Festival (Gdynia, Poland)

July 5 - Festival de Nîmes (Nîmes, France)

July 9 - NOS Alive (Oeiras, Portugal)

July 18 - Allianz Parque (Sao Paulo, Brazil)

July 25 - Lover Fest West (Los Angeles, U.S.)

July 26 - Lover Fest West (Los Angeles, U.S.)

July 31 - Lover Fest East (Foxborough, U.S.)

August 1 - Lover Fest East (Foxborough, U.S)

More UK and international dates will be coming, her Twitter post revealed, along with opening acts for her U.S. Lover Fest concerts.

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Taylor Swift announces 2020 European festival tour and ‘Lover Fest’ US dates

Could Glasto be on the cards?

Taylor Swift has announced her return to touring with a long run of European and US festival dates confirmed for summer 2020.

The pop sensation will be celebrating her acclaimed seventh album ‘Lover ‘ by taking it out on the road, with appearances including Werchter Boutique in Belgium, THE WALDBÜHNE in Berlin, Oslo Somertid in Norway, Roskilde Festival, France’s Festival De Nimes, and Nos Alive in Portugal.

Her own headline event Lover Fest will then call at Los Angeles and Foxborough in the United States.

• READ MORE: Drunk Taylor Swift is the glorious viral meme we didn’t know we needed

“The ‘Lover album’ is open fields, sunsets, + SUMMER,” wrote Swift on Twitter. “I want to perform it in a way that feels authentic. I want to go to some places I haven’t been and play festivals. Where we didn’t have festivals, we made some. Introducing, Lover Fest East + West!”

The Lover album is open fields, sunsets, + SUMMER. I want to perform it in a way that feels authentic. I want to go to some places I haven’t been and play festivals. Where we didn’t have festivals, we made some. Introducing, Lover Fest East + West! https://t.co/xw6YMN38WE pic.twitter.com/IhVPQ8DMUG — Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) September 17, 2019

Taylor Swift’s 2020 tour dates are:

20 June – Werchter Boutique (Werchter, Belgium) 24 June – The Waldbühne (Berlin, Germany) 26 June – Oslo Sommertid (Oslo, Norway) 1 July – Roskilde Festival (Roskilde, Denmark) 3 July – Open’er Festival (Gdynia, Poland) 5 July – Festival de Nîmes (Nîmes, France) 9 July – NOS Alive (Oeiras, Portugal) 18 July – Allianz Parque (Sao Paulo, Brazil) 25 July – Lover Fest West (Los Angeles, U.S.) 26 July – Lover Fest West (Los Angeles, U.S.) 31 July 31 – Lover Fest East (Foxborough, U.S.) 1 August – Lover Fest East (Foxborough, U.S)

Recommended

Fans are now speculating whether the curious gaps in her schedule at the end of June might mean that she could be due to perform at Glastonbury 2020 .

In a four-star review of ‘Lover’, NME concluded : “Swift is hardly the first singer-songwriter to sound most comfortable when she’s singing about herself. Despite the odd dud, ‘Lover’ is a welcome reminder of her songwriting skills and ability to craft sonically inviting pop music. Together with co-producers including Jack “Bleachers” Antonoff and Joel Little (Lorde, Khalid), she’s made another slick and accessible record flecked with surprising production flourishes. ‘False God’ offers a balmy mix of sax and trap, the shimmering ‘Death Of a Thousand Cuts’ has echoes of ‘Tango In The Night’-era Fleetwood Mac, and ‘Paper Rings’ is an ‘80s-style pop stomper punctuated with Ramones-style “eh! oh!”s. Yes, really.”

NME added: “To call ‘Lover’ a comeback feels like a reach considering that ‘Reputation’, her lowest-selling album to date, still went triple Platinum in the US. So let’s just say that the old Taylor can’t come to the phone right now – ‘cause she’s busy writing songs that suit her again.”

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Taylor Swift Announces 2020 Tour

Taylor Swift has announced a brand new tour in support of her new album Lover . She’ll be heading out on an international trek in June 2020, playing shows throughout Europe and South America before heading to North America. Her only 2020 U.S. dates are Lover Fest West (a two-date run at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium) and Lover Fest East (a two-date run at Foxborough, Massachusetts’ Gillette Stadium). According to a press release, she will be the first woman in history to open an NFL Stadium. Find her itinerary below and ticketing information on her website .

Read “ 5 Takeaways from Taylor Swift’s New Album, Lover ” on the Pitch.

Taylor Swift:

06-20 Werchter, Belgium - Werchter Boutique 06-24 Berlin, Germany - The Waldbühne 06-26 Oslo, Norway - Oslo Sommertid 07-01 Roskilde, Denmark - Roskilde Festival 07-03 Gdynia, Poland - Open'er Festival 07-05 Nîmes, France - Festival de Nîmes 07-09 Oeiras, Portugal - NOS Alive 07-18 Sao Paulo, Brazil - Allianz Parque 07-25 Los Angeles, CA - SoFi Stadium 07-26 Los Angeles, CA - SoFi Stadium 07-31 Foxborough, MA - Gillette Stadium 08-01 Foxborough, MA - Gillette Stadium

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Most Romantic European cities you need to visit with your loved one

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: May 3, 2023

Are you looking for romantic European cities in Europe? You came to the right place.

Dotted with medieval architecture, expansive greenery, flower-potted gardens, and soft pastel-color houses, the European charm is something else.

When it comes to honeymoon destinations, no other places top the chart like the most romantic European cities listed in this travel guide.

Whether you are hoping to spend your amorous days in a city lit with a thousand lights or a quiet town ringed with old bridges, Europe has just the romantic destination for you. Even if you are a single, sucker-for-romance kind of a person, prowling for that warm-fuzzy vibe, you will love these cities.

Expect nothing less of the most romantic cities in Europe, after all, this is where the likes of the legendary Romeo and Juliet hail from. This is where rows and rows of lavender fields offer an idyllic setting to profess your love. Whether it’s in the hearts of young lovers or famous artworks, romance abounds across the continent.

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Table of Contents

Most romantic places in Europe you need to visit with your loved one

Paris – The Classic Romantic Getaway in Europe

There is no better city to start this list with than the City of Love . 

Lit by a thousand lights, flanked by the gorgeous Eiffel Tower, Paris is where the love of Heloise and Abelard blossomed.

This is the city where Alice B Toklas found love in Gertrude Stein .

Several centuries later, the air of love can still be felt in the French capital – in its picnic spots, boutique cafés, secret gardens , chocolates, the Palace of Versailles – everywhere.

It is no surprise why Paris is dubbed as the most romantic European city by many. A casual, slow-paced ramble on its cobbled streets, past the Art Nouveau edifices, evokes feelings that we read about in the novels. 

It’s also one of the prettiest cities in Europe.

Breathe in l’amour sans fin at The Wall of Love . Cruise along the Seine at sunset , stroll Rue des Barres , catch a movie at Le Champo , and steal a kiss at Pont des Arts !

There’s something romantic to do at every step in Paris. Sundry acts like walking hand-in-hand also feel more beautiful.

Lisbon – A Youthful City to Recapture the Romance

The Portuguese capital is Instagrammable and picture-perfect.

There is a blend of vintage, soft-pastel aesthetic, and modern vibe here.

From the puppy love blooming in its narrow streets to the newlyweds cruising at the sunset, Lisbon teems with all kinds of romance.

The city may lack the luster of the Eiffel Tower, but it is full of relaxing vibes that call for sweet picnic trips , hand-in-hand strolls in the Alfama neighborhood , and photogenic dates at the unlikely Belem Monastery .

The ideal romantic European holidays in Lisbon should always include the picturesque ride in the Bica Funicular . The vintage tram moves through neighborhoods offering sights of petite shops, effervescent Rua da Bica, and vantage point of Miradouro de Santa Catarina.

If you are up for a nerdy-geeky romantic date, never miss Ler Devagar Bookstore , the collectionist’s paradise.

Proposals seldom get more sumptuous than in the ornate setting of Casa do Alentejo .

If you are looking for a complete Lisbon itinerary, click here. Don’t travel to Lisbon without reading our best Lisbon travel tips and our full guide on using public transportation in Lisbon.

With fewer crowds, lower prices, and winter temperatures between 12°C to 20°C ii is also a great place to enjoy the winter sun in Europe. 

Venice – Queen of the Adriatic and Love

With its lovely canal ways and cobblestone streets, Venice makes a magical destination for romantic European breaks.

The romance here is almost of artistic quality.

Couples can celebrate their love by listening to emotion-evoking operas or watching spellbinding ballets . The fun dates here can be full of cuddlesome rides on a Gondola .

Perhaps, the most classic Venice romance can be experienced on its Vaporetto ride . On this boat bus, couples can explore the untainted nearby islands and street-lining baroque palaces.

Couples out for a quiet and non-touristy date will find their haven at the city’s Dorsoduro district .

The area is famous for its market, museums, and art galleries. However, nothing beats moseying on the Rialto Bridge and Alberoni beach at night , drinking in the scenic views.

Prague – All About the Fairy-Tale Love Story

This city may be one of the best romantic places in Europe. It is also one of the cheapest places to travel to in Europe.  

Lovers from across the world come to Prague to cherish their love and lock it for life at the city’s Charles Bridge .

Add to this the folklore charm of its cobbled streets, Gothic buildings, and medieval architecture. Walking the winding alleys of Prague is like walking a sweet romantic legend from a bygone era.

Experience the purest form of love at Vyšehrad Castle , where poets are buried with beautiful poems engraved on their tombstones. Enjoy a breezy date on a sunset Vltava river cruise or recapture the romance by riding a horse-drawn carriage in the Old Town .

If you are inspired by movies like Letters to Juliet, you could chase a serene date at the verdant vineyards of Viniční altán . Add a touch of class to this romantic European holiday by attending an opera at Prague National Theatre .

Vienna – All for Musical Romance Since Centuries

The capital of Austria boasts oodles of places, perfect for a romantic date. It has everything from streets that ooze old-school charm to museums, palace gardens, amorous art paintings, candle-light dinners, and operas.

What’s more? A walk through the city is serenaded by the classic pieces of Brahms, Beethoven, and Mozart. Honeymooners can make special memories at the chandelier-lit coffee houses , live royal fantasies at storybook Habsburg Palace , and waltz the night away along the Danube.

Those with a knack for the traditional romance can take the horse carriage sightseeing tour and later watch the sunset on a boat cruising the river.

In a nutshell, when it comes to sparking love, Vienna is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in Europe.

Santorini – Modern Lover’s Romantic Paradise

Greece’s Santorini is a private bolthole for an intimate whirl. The white-washed island is often brimming with couples. It may be one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Europe.

When it comes to romance, Santorini stands out. What makes it a unique romantic place is the lack of archaic charm seen in other European cities. Unlike Paris and Prague, Santorini is more of a dreamy, seaside getaway with classic Mediterranean charm .

Come here to stay in a cozy, cliff-hugging resort , enjoy dinner on a patio overlooking the Caldera , stroll through streets lined with blue-domed buildings , and watch the sunset at Oia .

When thinking of chasing romance in Santorini, think of relaxing in a pool with sprawling views of the ocean and sunbathing on black sand beaches . Enjoy the simple pleasures of picking matching stones on the coastline. You can spend breezy evenings riding on a scooter , relishing local wine , or sampling Greek cuisine together .

The amount of classic romantic shots that a couple can take in Santorini is abounding. If you were thinking engagement, proposal, or even pre-wedding shoot, then it doesn’t get better than this Greek island.

Budapest – Bolthole for Laid-Back Lovers

Looking to spend a relaxed romantic trip to Europe? Budapest fits your bill perfectly.

Cut in half, Buda and Pest, by the Danube river, the city itself is a marriage of two contrasts. Connecting these two territories are strings of iconic bridges, including the famous love lock bridge , which now caters as a lovely spot for lovers to seal their bond.

The landscape of Budapest looks tailor-made for romance. Tracing the coast are charming promenades and dotting its postcard-perfect districts are romantic diners such as Halászbástya Restaurant .

Much like Lisbon, Budapest also has a vintage funicular that rides you to its eponymous Budapest Castle that sits on a hilltop. Remember to keep your camera fully charged and free of space. The views of the castle are just spectacular, especially after sundown, when several warm lights turn it into a royal paradise.

Add to this the thermal baths in the city, the palatial Metropolitan Ervin Szabo Library , the Hungarian State Opera House , and architecture-soaked squares .

Bruges – Romantic Melting Pot for All Things European

Bruges ( Brugge called by the locals ) is an idyllic concoction of Belgian chocolate, Venice-like canals, Copenhagen’s Painted Ladies, and England’s olde-worlde charm. This medieval city is like a mini-Europe in itself.

But there’s a lot more to this West Flanders capital, which makes it one of the most romantic fairytale European cities.

Romance is felt most at the Lake of Love crowned by the Lover’s Bridge . Both tell the doomed love story of Minna, a girl who died in the arms of her lover.  The scenery at the lake is like a romantic novel that writes itself. Nothing in Brugge is as romantic as walking on the bridge. Also, the lake is home to several swans, the ultimate symbol of love, whom you can feed.

Other romantic things to do in Brugge include taking a carriage ride through the city – the ultimate Disney style! Forget about sharing a drink with two straws and share a hot chocolate . As the sunset approaches, catch a canal cruise ride .

Hold hands as you mosey up the Belfry and walk the surrounding cobble paths.

Ljubljana – The City Named “The Beloved”

Slovenia’s capital is every bit as picturesque as you’d expect it to be. With orange-roofed houses divided by a river canal and a mountainous landscape, it is one of the most romantic cities in Europe.

The name of the city itself translates to the beloved . Now isn’t that beautiful? Apart from Paris, Ljubljana is also affectionately called the City of Love .

Not only will you fall in love with the city, but you will also fall for your loved one all over again. 

There’s a lot a couple can do in this beautiful capital, starting with walking the quiet streets early in the morning. Lovers can also spend time admiring the architecture , riding up to the vantage Ljubljana Castle in a funicular , and then watch the sunset .

Call it a day at a sidewalk café lining the riverfront. Sample delicious local dishes while enjoying the lit river. Unleash your childish side together and go on a scavenger hunt for the city’s famous dragon sculptures. You can rent bikes and tour the city like two buoyant teens newly fallen in love.

However, what truly sets Ljubljana apart from the rest is its hip atmosphere . Despite the old, medieval gems, the city is always shaking its leg on concert nights .

When you are planning your trip, look into the website of the Ljubljana Tourism Board to check the event calendar. It’s also a great winter destination.

Rome – The Eternal City; Rome-antic Caput Mundi

If any city could beat Paris in romance, it would be Rome. That’s right! The Italian capital might be the most romantic European city. Plus, it makes a convenient romantic gateway for couples who just cannot decide which one is best for them.

The history buff in the couple might pick Brugge, while the hedonist is thinking of Paris.

In Rome, you get everything – from fine architecture to river cruises – and also mouth-watering cuisine! Gourmets in love will want to travel to Rome mostly for its vibrant, world-famous food scene. Jetsetters would love it for the presence of Via Cola di Rienzo. The art geeks will want to head straight to Vatican City.

Take a stroll in the Villa Borghese Gardens, visit the Teatro dell ‘Opera di Roma, have a picnic In Aventine Hill, and share a candle-lit dinner at a rooftop restaurant!

There’s just so much to do in Rome when you are setting off for romantic European holidays.

Perhaps, the simplest gesture like tossing a coin together into Trevi Fountain and making a wish will be enough for an amorous spark.

When it comes to cherishing love, leave it on Europe to deliver an idyllic romantic vacation. Scattered across the entire continent are cities brimming with beautiful sites, artwork, intimate activities, and fun things to do for couples.

From riding a Disney carriage around medieval buildings to popping open a bottle of delicious wine together, European cities create an intimate whirl in various ways.

The beauty of the continent has always inspired love – in the hearts of honeymooners, writers’ novels, bards’ poems, or painters’ art – Europe’s romance abounds everywhere. It is in the grand palaces, baroque churches, ancient temples, and modern city squares too.

So, create your own love story as you explore the cities on your romantic European holidays. Let your heart take a sweet journey through the most romantic places in Europe’s history and legends.

Curl up in the warmth of the legacy left by the greatest lovers like Heloise and Abelard, and Minna and Stromberg.

Make sure to also check out our web stories that accompany this post.

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Looking for more romantic trips? Here you can find 4 more romantic couples holiday ideas.

• Best US cities to visit in August.

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13 Most Romantic Cities in Europe for a Memorable Getaway

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Wondering about the most romantic cities in Europe?

Love, sweet love! Romance is a global pursuit, but there’s something extra special about it in Europe, where romantic cobbled streets, epic landscapes, and dreamy canals make perfect backdrops for all kinds of love stories.

If love is in the air for you and you’re ready for a sweet escape, consider our list of the most romantic cities in Europe.

Table of Contents

Most Romantic Cities in Europe

Paris, france.

Naturally, we kick things off with an icon of romance, the city of love itself: Paris ! There’s no place more perfect for taking a lovers’ stroll along tucked-away cobbled streets, whispering sweet nothings into each others’ ears.

Romance can take many forms here . You can go a lovely, more traditional route with a box of Ladurée macarons , a wine and cheese picnic at Champs de Mars , followed by a stroll through Amelie’s Montmartre …or maybe you’d prefer to get a little quirky?

Try picking up a bag of bariolés from Les Bariolés de Maud , then wandering through part of the La Petite Ceinture abandoned railway, and wind things up by shopping for cool gifts to exchange at the Porte de Vanves flea market .

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Picturesque canals and bridges, ornate 17th-century homes, and a renowned cultural landscape earn Amsterdam what may seem like a surprising entry onto this list of European romantic getaways.

But if you avoid the heart of the crowded central area and instead venture out a bit, you’ll find a net of alleyways begging to be explored hand-in-hand and a throng of amazing art museums to get lost in.

Going further out to gorgeous historic areas like Zaanse Schans and Edam offer perfect opportunities for couples to immortalize their loved-up getaway with truly memorable photos.

And, of course, you can and should still book an iconic and romantic Amsterdam canal boat cruise for two! Then enjoy an evening meal at Michelin-starred Bougainville , recently named Best Restaurant in the World by TripAdvisor.

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Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a beating Catalonian heart perfect for romance lovers. Start your morning with pan tumaca and milky coffee for two before heading out to enjoy a day in beautiful Parc Guell .

And you must spend time trading kisses as the city unfolds beneath your feet with a Port Vell aerial tram ride . 

In the evening, walk through Barcelona’s prettiest neighborhood, El Born , and grab a low-key dinner at one of the many restaurants nestled into the winding streets.

Rome, Italy

Most romantic cities in Europe? Romance in Rome should be a given in that regard–it’s right there in the name! Adventurous lovers should rent a Vespa and spend an afternoon scooting through the streets together.

In the summertime, take in a dreamy evening open-air performance of the Opera di Roma at the historic Caracalla Baths . 

For dinner, wander well outside of the tourist areas and find an out-of-the-way treasure of a pasta restaurant with a table for two, and of course, share gelato for dessert. 

One thing you can’t forget to do is to toss coins into the Trevi Fountain together before you leave–so you can come back and do it all again one day!

Füssen, Germany

The charming Bavarian town of Füssen is the last destination on the southern end of Germany’s Romantic Road , so it is obviously one of the best romantic getaways in Europe! 

For the ultimate in cozy Alpine romance, book a room at one of the accommodations in Füssen’s lovely Old Town –not only will you be in walking distance of all of the best sights and restaurants in the city, you could wake up each morning to a view straight out of an illuminated manuscript.

Then, if you rent a car, Schloss Neuschwanstein –the castle on a cloud that inspired Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle–is a short drive from Füssen, and a visit there makes for a fairy-tale afternoon. 

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Speaking of fairy tales, you’ll certainly feel as though you’ve fallen into one in riverside Ljubljana. Slovenia’s capital is a spectacularly charming city with a historical center and a modern heart.

Known for lush, expansive green spaces, planning European romantic getaways here should literally be a walk in the park!

Ljubljana is also known for beekeeping and honey production , so make sure to grab a jar of the golden sweet treat from a local business to enjoy during romantic breakfasts.

And a fun, unusual couples activity is available in the form of visiting some of the city’s artisans and taking a class with them in anything from printing or weaving to precious metalsmithing. 

Florence, Italy

Rome may argue that romance originated deep in its DNA, but as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, lovely Tuscan Florence has been making a serious case for its own romantic potential for a long time now, and between the scenery, the culture, and the food, well…there’s excellent reason to hear the Florentines out on this.

For starters, nowhere else in Italy will you find wine windows . Originating during the somewhat less romantic age of the Florentine plague in 1634, wine windows have come to enjoy new life in the 21st century.

There aren’t many that are actually operational, but when you find one on your romantic evening strolls, definitely order a couple of glasses of wine to enjoy al fresco . 

For a sweet couples’ dinner, allow us to suggest the humble panini. Why? Because you can often eat a panino with one hand and hold your partner’s with the other, of course!

Popular TikToker Kacie Rose has several recommendations for great panini in Florence , with her favorite, the family-owned Pino’s, topping the list. 

Vienna, Austria

If music is the language of love, then with its prodigious classical music pedigree, Vienna is surely a worthy home to the sentiment and one of the most romantic cities in Europe. 

A simple walk through the streets of the city can lead couples past a number of buskers serenading them with Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, and more.

And, of course, music-loving pairs must take in a concert at the beautiful Musikverein –Vienna is home to one of the finest orchestras and opera companies, after all.

But perhaps music is not your be-all, end-all? No problem. Quintessentially romantic options include booking a horse-drawn fiaker ride through the city, visiting the Belvedere Palace’s epic collection of artworks, including Klimt’s The Kiss , or taking a Viennese waltz class together! 

And, of course, to cap off any sweet evening, it’s only right to share a slice of the Hotel Sacher’s iconic torte .

Venice, Italy

There’s Rome, there’s Florence… but there is perhaps no other Italian city more actually synonymous with romance than Venice, the city of canals–this may be one of the best European destinations for couples.

Stay at the beautiful and perfectly central Oltre il Giardino hotel , once home to Alma Mahler, widow of composer Gustav Mahler.

Tucked into the end of a narrow street in the very heart of Venice, this hotel, with its lovely walled garden, is a beautiful retreat from the city. 

A private gondola ride is, of course, the expected thing for lovers to do, but you could go off the beaten path and walk around getting “lost” in the city’s narrow streets.

This gives you the opportunity to find hidden gems in terms of restaurants, gelateria, and shops.

Zurich, Switzerland

Perhaps finance and business come to mind first when you think of Zurich, but if that’s all you think about, you’re shortchanging a gorgeous cultural capital city that’s surprisingly ripe for romance. 

Wine and cheese are of course romantic essentials, so why not enjoy a cozy fondue dinner for two at any one of Zurich’s excellent fondue restaurants ?

Alternatively, the outdoorsy sort of couple can rent bikes, pack a picnic, and cycle out to the shores of lovely Lake Geneva to while away a gorgeous afternoon. 

A surprisingly romantic idea is to ride the Polybahn funicular up to the Polyterasse . This terrace at a technological university doesn’t sound like a place for lovers at first, but it overlooks Old Town Zurich and has some of the most amazing views in the city.

Budapest, Hungary

Gorgeous Budapest is another underrated city for lovers, one of the best romantic getaways in Europe–but with no shortage of scenic strolls, candlelit Danube restaurants, and thermal spas, it should be a can’t-miss on any couples’ agenda.

Despite its origins as a convent island housing a princess who refused to marry an earthly husband, Margaret Island –in the middle of the Danube, a quick ferry ride from the city–has become known as a lovers’ retreat, with picturesque ruins, beautiful gardens, and lovely little green niches perfect for stealing kisses in. 

Budapest is great for sybaritic indulgence as well–you can’t go wrong with booking a luxury couples massage at the beautiful Szechenyi Baths .

Follow it up with a gorgeous fine dining experience at the rose-festooned Vintage Garden restaurant and you’ve got the recipe for the most perfectly plush and sensual evening.

Galway, Ireland

Ed Sheeran spun a musical tale about falling in love with a Galway girl, why not go a step further and fall in love with Galway itself?

While also falling further in love in Galway? Nothing could be better when you’re hunting for the most romantic cities in Europe!

Live out your best boho romantic dreams in the city’s Latin Quarter , poking your heads into unusual little stores, watching street performers, and grabbing meals in any number of cool little restaurants.

Or sway together to any number of live folk bands in the city’s pubs!

A ferry journey out to the moodily photogenic Aran Islands and the legendary Cliffs of Moher is also an absolute must.

Here, sweeping views and stunning landscapes form a backdrop that’s perfect for the most epic romantic moment of your life, straight out of Irish cinema.

London, England

It may be difficult at first to think of big, busy London as a setting for romance, but… hello? Some of the most notable British romantic comedies are set here! Love, actually, is all around in London , if you know where to look.

Obviously, colorful Notting Hill must be a stop on your love itinerary for a sweet photo opportunity at the famous Blue Door (and if you don’t know why this is a good idea, rent the movie Notting Hill first and spend a quiet romantic night watching it!), followed by a good browse through Portobello Market and drinks at one of the cozy bars in the neighborhood.

If you still want to romance your way through the city but need a nature break, you’ve got options there, too. The Little Venice neighborhood at the juncture of the Grand Union and Regent’s canals, is a wonderfully atmospheric and peaceful area to roam in.

Enjoy people-watching as the narrowboat traffic glides by, or even take a narrowboat cruise yourself!

For a more land-based nature love-in, picnic in Hampstead Heath and read the poetry of John Keats to each other–this area is where the poet lived and spent a couple of summers falling in love with Fanny Brawne.

Final Thoughts: Best Romantic Getaways in Europe

It’s said that love is the food of life and travel is the dessert. With luck, this guide to the most romantic cities in Europe will lead you to the perfect sweet treat of a travel experience. Bon Appetit!

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Explore more of our Europe posts below.

• 17 Best European Cities for an Unforgettable Vacation
• 15 Best European Destinations for Christmas
• 28 Best Fairytale Castles in Europe That Will Enchant You

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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10 Must-Try European Delicacies for American Food Lovers

Posted: July 9, 2024 | Last updated: July 9, 2024

Europe’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its cultures, with each country offering dishes deeply rooted in history, tradition, and local ingredients. A foodie journey through Europe is about savoring flavors and understanding the stories behind these dishes and the people who make them. From the hearty stews of Eastern Europe to the refined pastries of France, this guide highlights must-try dishes across the continent and where to find the best local flavors, offering travelers a taste of Europe’s rich gastronomic heritage.

1. Italy: Pizza in Naples

Image Credit: Shutterstock / V. Matthiesen

Italy is synonymous with pizza, and Naples is its undisputed birthplace. Neapolitan pizza is divine with its simple yet flavorful ingredients—San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, salt, and olive oil—on a soft, chewy crust. The art of Neapolitan pizza making, or “pizzaiuolo,” is even recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Authentic pizzerias, like Pizzeria Da Michele or Sorbillo, offer a taste of this traditional dish in its purest form, providing a window into the soul of Italian cuisine.

2. France: Croissant in Paris

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Anna_Pustynnikova

Though rooted in Austrian cuisine, the croissant has become a quintessential part of French culinary identity, especially in Paris. This buttery, flaky pastry is a staple of French breakfasts, best enjoyed fresh from a boulangerie oven. The art of making a perfect croissant involves a meticulous process of layering dough and butter, then rolling and folding multiple times to achieve its iconic texture. Legendary bakeries like Pierre Hermé and Poilâne in Paris offer some of the finest examples, showcasing the croissant’s delicate balance of crunch and softness.

3. Spain: Paella in Valencia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / RossHelen

Paella, Spain’s most famous dish, originates from Valencia. This aromatic rice dish is traditionally cooked in a large shallow pan over an open fire, infused with saffron and various ingredients such as rabbit, chicken, snails, beans, and sometimes seafood. The key to an authentic paella Valenciana lies in the use of Bomba rice, which absorbs the flavors of the broth, and the formation of the socarrat, a caramelized crust of rice at the bottom of the pan. Restaurants like La Pepica and Casa Roberto in Valencia offer some of the most authentic paella experiences, where the dish is prepared with time-honored techniques and local ingredients.

4. Greece: Moussaka in Athens

Image Credit: Pexels / Doze of hope Rafea

Moussaka is a quintessential Greek dish, consisting of layers of sautéed eggplant, minced meat (usually lamb), and a creamy béchamel sauce, baked to perfection. This rich and comforting dish reflects the flavors of the Mediterranean and is a staple in Greek cuisine. In Athens, traditional tavernas like To Kafeneio and Psaras Tavern offer some of the best moussaka, prepared according to traditional recipes passed down through generations. Dining in these establishments provides a taste of authentic Greek moussaka and an immersion into Greek culture and hospitality.

5. Portugal: Bacalhau in Lisbon

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Paulo Vilela

Bacalhau, or salted cod, is Portugal’s national dish, with the saying that there are 365 ways to cook bacalhau, one for each day of the year. In Lisbon, the dish is prepared in various forms, from bacalhau à brás (shredded cod with onions, straw potatoes, and scrambled eggs) to bacalhau com natas (cod with cream). Time Out Market Lisboa and local eateries like A Casa do Bacalhau offer exceptional versions of these dishes, showcasing bacalhau’s versatility and depth of flavor.

6. Germany: Sauerbraten in Cologne

Image Credit: Shutterstock / hlphoto

Sauerbraten, often referred to as Germany’s national dish, is a pot roast, usually of beef (but other meats such as lamb, mutton, pork, and traditionally, horse), marinated for several days in a mixture of vinegar or wine, water, and a variety of seasonings before being slow-cooked. The result is a tender, flavorful dish often served with red cabbage, potato dumplings, or boiled potatoes. In Cologne, historic breweries and restaurants like Früh am Dom, and Brauhaus Sion serve some of the best sauerbraten, offering a taste of traditional German cuisine in a rustic, convivial setting.

7. Hungary: Goulash in Budapest

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Natalia Hanin

Goulash is a hearty stew of meat and vegetables, seasoned with paprika and other spices from Hungary. This iconic dish embodies the warmth and robust flavors of Hungarian cuisine. In Budapest, traditional restaurants and taverns serve authentic goulash, which is more like a soup in Hungary than the thicker stews often found elsewhere. Spots like Gettó Gulyás and Café Kör offer some of the best goulash in the city, prepared with a deep understanding of this centuries-old recipe. These establishments provide a cozy atmosphere where diners can enjoy goulash and various Hungarian dishes.

8. Belgium: Moules-Frites in Brussels

Image Credit: Shutterstock / margouillat photo

Moules-frites, or mussels served with fries, is a beloved dish in Belgium, combining the country’s love for seafood and its claim to have invented the fried potato. In Brussels, restaurants and brasseries across the city serve this classic dish, often with various sauces for the mussels. Chez Léon and Fritland are just a couple of places where locals and tourists alike can enjoy high-quality moules-frites, showcasing the simplicity and deliciousness of Belgian cuisine.

9. Austria: Wiener Schnitzel in Vienna

Image Credit: Pexels / Nadin Sh

Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet, is Austria’s national dish and a must-try for visitors to Vienna. This simple yet delicious dish is served in many traditional Viennese restaurants, known as “Wirtshäuser,” with Figlmüller being one of the most famous for serving an oversized version that barely fits on the plate. The key to an authentic Wiener Schnitzel lies in its tender meat, crispy coating, and the use of high-quality ingredients.

10. Turkey: Kebab in Istanbul

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Prenes

The kebab, with its origins deeply rooted in Middle Eastern and Turkish cuisines, is a staple dish in Istanbul, offering a variety of meats cooked on skewers or as doner kebabs. Istanbul’s culinary scene provides various kebab experiences, from street food vendors to upscale restaurants. Sultanahmet Kebab House and Dürümzade are renowned for their authentic flavors and traditional preparation methods, offering visitors a genuine taste of Turkish kebab culture.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / frantic00

A culinary journey through Europe is an adventure that tantalizes the taste buds and offers insight into the continent’s diverse cultures and traditions. From the hearty stews of Eastern Europe to the refined pastries of France, each dish you encounter tells a story of its region’s history, geography, and people. As you explore Europe’s culinary landscape, remember to seek authentic experiences, whether a local bistro, a street food vendor, or a traditional tavern.

Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

Image Credit: Shutterstock / donvictorio

Discover chilling tales from the America’s spookiest roads complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops

18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

Image Credit: Pexels / Adrian Newell

American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid

22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nejdet Duzen

Hit the road and discover America’s coziest towns, real-life versions of those quaint settings from your favorite novels. Explore charming streets where every storefront tells a story and locals greet everyone with a hello. Ready to dive into the charm? 22 of America’s Most Charming Towns

The post 10 Must-Try European Delicacies for American Food Lovers was first published on PassingThru .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / RossHelen.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Want to leave the US? Here's how to move to Canada, Mexico and Europe as an American.

• The number of Americans considering moving to Canada, Mexico or Europe has increased over the past 12 months.
• Some are interested in moving internationally for reasons such as better quality of life, health care and more affordable retirement.
• There are several ways to move to Canada, Mexico or Europe, depending on your profile and which visa is right for you.

Get more news like this delivered to your inbox by signing up for our Travel newsletter here .

Presidential debates, Supreme Court decisions, or political differences may have some Americans considering – or revisiting – the idea of an international move . 

Attorney Jean-Francois Harvey of Harvey Law Group, a Miami-based firm assisting U.S. clients with immigration services, said his office has noticed increased demand over the past 12 months. 

“Indeed, there’s a lot of (people) who are wondering what’s happening in the U.S., and most of them want a Plan B,” Harvey told USA TODAY. “As the election comes, more people will say, maybe it’s more than a Plan B.”

However, according to Harvey, not all moves are due to political uncertainty. Others are interested in moving internationally for reasons such as better quality of life, health care and more affordable retirement. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

While many people are interested in moving to Mexico or Canada because of their proximity to the U.S., Harvey said Europe is actually the most in demand among his clientele, particularly Spain and France. He attributes that to many Americans being comfortable with the Spanish language and also how fast the Spanish and French visa process can be, possibly just a month. 

Here’s what to know about moving to Canada, Mexico, or Europe. 

Thinking of working remotely? The top 5 safest, healthiest countries for female digital nomads

Can I move to Canada? Can I move to Mexico? Can I move to Europe?

Yes, you can move to Canada, Mexico, or somewhere in Europe. It all depends on how you meet that country’s requirements and which visa is right for you. 

“What is the best way for them to enter the country and stay in the country?” Harvey said. “It all depends on your profile, like age and qualifications.” For example, depending on your profession, you could open a business in Canada and move there relatively quickly to start the business and then do the visa process later on. 

Another important factor to take into consideration is taxes, Harvey said. Many countries in Europe as well as Mexico and Canada have a double taxation agreement with the U.S. so you won’t be paying the same taxes twice. 

Also, consider how easy it is to return home and see family and friends. For some places in Europe, there are many flights to and from the U.S. For Mexico and Canada, it could be a quick flight or an easy drive across the border. 

How do I move to Canada as an American?

The easiest way for an American to relocate to Canada is through the Express Entry system, aimed at three types of skilled immigrants who want to settle in Canada, according to the Government of Canada website . Depending on the program, applicants must submit proof of at least one to two years of work experience plus other documentation like education assessments and language tests. After completing the required documentation, applicants will get a score that will determine if they can apply for residency. Unfortunately, the process can be slow, possibly up to two years, Harvey said.

You may be luckier if you have close relatives in Canada, like a child or parent, who can sponsor you. Applicants can also look for a work permit if their work falls into one of the professional categories, such as accounting, of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Work permits are usually issued for two to three years and can be renewed. 

How do I move to Mexico as an American?

One of the most straightforward ways to move to Mexico is through its retirement program, Harvey said. To apply for permanent residency in Mexico , you must prove you have at least $292,858 in investments or your bank account during the previous 12 months, or at least $7,321.47 in monthly income from your job or pension after taxes. 

Another way to move to Mexico is by purchasing property, which is technically illegal for non-Mexican citizens who want to purchase within 30 miles of the coastline but can be done through an organization of record. In that case, you’d be using the name of an institution when purchasing. 

How do I move to Europe as an American?

There are two easy ways to move to Europe as an American, according to Harvey. The first method is if you have ancestral ties to the country. Dozens of countries – such as Portugal, Spain and France – offer citizenship through descent, but it depends on how many generations ago. 

“There are a lot of programs out there based on ancestry; just the fact your great-grandfather is Spanish is enough to get a full citizenship in Spain,” he said. 

Italy’s citizenship by descent “is based on the principle of 'jure sanguinis' (right of blood),” according to the Italian Consulate of London . You just have to prove you have an Italian ancestor who emigrated abroad and was born in Italy, even if it was over a century ago.

France requires you to have one French grandparent and parent who will also apply for citizenship. French language speaking is not required. 

Many European countries also offer digital nomad visas, which allow you to live abroad and work remotely for a company elsewhere, so long as you meet a few requirements. Greece, Spain, Italy and Portugal are just a few of the countries that offer that type of visa. 

For Spain’s digital nomad visa, you must show certification of working for at least three months, proof of residence in Spain and financial means of at least 200% of the monthly Spanish national minimum wage of 1,134 euros (about $1,217), according to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation . An applicant’s children and spouse can also apply for that visa. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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Art Lover's Tour of Europe - Italy, Switzerland, France, Netherlands

Grand history tour of europe - france, germany, czech republic, scientific marvels of europe - italy, switzerland, france, england.

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Day 1: Welcome to Rome

Welcome to Rome! On arrival you are met by your Travel Director and transferred to your accommodation. (D)

Day 2: Rome Sightseeing

This morning, visit the Vatican Museum with a Local Expert. Admire the papal art collection and enter the Sistine Chapel and admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece on its ceiling. Next door, in St Peter’s Basilica, see one of Michelangelo’s early works, the Pieta, and the splendid dome, completed after his death. Afterwards, visit the Colosseum, where the gladiators prepared for battle. (B, RD)

Day 3: Tuscan Hills onto Florence

Journey through the picturesque Tuscan Hills towards Florence. On arrival, join a local art historian to see Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Museum. (B, D)

Day 4: Renaissance Florence

This morning, see the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti’s ‘Gates of Paradise’. Then join a Local Expert for a visit to the Uffizi Galleries, one of the oldest and most famous art museums in Europe. You'll also enjoy works by Michelangelo, Botticelli and Raphael, among other masterpieces. (B, RD)

Day 5: Leaning Tower of Pisa & Milan

Stop first in Pisa to see the incredible Leaning Tower, as well as its splendid cathedral and baptistery. Continue north to the financial and fashion capital Milan. (B, D)

Day 6: Experience Milan

This morning, visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie with a Local Expert. It is an outstanding work of architecture and an emblem within the Catholic tradition, and is perhaps even more famous for its connection to Leonardo Da Vinci’s fresco of ‘The Last Supper’, which is preserved inside its refectory (dining hall). The Church is one of Renaissance art’s most important testimonies and has therefore been included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (tickets to the Last Supper are subject to availability).  Later, for a change of pace, we embark on an alternative visit to Milan to see urban graffiti, murals and street art scattered around the city. Get a glimpse of an alternative Milan, meet colourful characters, learn about modern-day Milan and be inspired by the vibrancy of city life.  (B, D)

Day 7: Milan to Basel

Travel across the border into Switzerland. En route, we stop for a cheese or chocolate tasting before heading to Basel. (B, D)

Day 8: Basel Sightseeing

Explore Basel, with a Local Expert, concluding with a visit to Foundation Beyeler In 1997, the famous collection of Ernst and Hildy Beyeler in Riehen. The collection contains around 200 pictures and sculptures, including works by Cézanne, Picasso, Rousseau, Mondrian, Klee, Ernst, Matisse and Newman.  Famous around the world, the astounding temporary exhibitions are highlights of your visit. (B, D)

Day 9: Basel to Paris

Travel through the French countryside to Paris. (B, D)

Day 10: Best of Paris

After an orientation tour, visit one of the world's best-known art collections at the Louvre Museum. A specialist art historian guides you through the galleries to see the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory, Mona Lisa and more (Louvre visit subject to availability). Continue on a visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral, famously protected by its roof-top gargoyles, to learn about over-arching Parisian history. This evening, embark on an illuminations journey in Paris to see iconic sights at night. (B, HD)

Day 11: Musee De L’orangerie & Giverney

This morning, visit the Musée de l'Orangerie, an art gallery of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. Though most famous for being the permanent home of eight Water Lilies murals by Claude Monet, the museum also contains works by Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse, Amedeo Modigliani, Pablo Picasso, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Henri Rousseau, Alfred Sisley, Chaim Soutine, and Maurice Utrillo, among others. Afterwards, we head to Monet’s garden in Giverney to see the inspiration of some of his most famous works before heading back to Paris. (BB, D)

Day 12: Paris to Amsterdam

Travel through northern France and Belgium en route to Amsterdam. (BB, D)

Day 13: Amsterdam Galleries – Rijksmuseum & Vincent van Gogh Museum

Admire world-famous masterpieces in the Rijksmuseum, which has on display 8,000 objects of art and history. There is a total collection of 1 million objects, spanning the years 1200–2000AD, among which are masterpieces by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer. Then onto the Vincent van Gogh Museum, which is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries in Amsterdam. The museum is home to the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's paintings and drawings in the world.  This evening, enjoy a canal cruise dinner to bid farewell to our time in Europe. (B, FD)

Day 14: Farewell Amsterdam

Your tour concludes after breakfast with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: Welcome to Paris

Welcome to Paris! On arrival at Charles De Gaulle airport you will be met by your Travel Director and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Paris From a History Perspective

Learn about the significance of the French Revolution and visit key sites such as Place de la Bastille, Les Invalides War Museum, the Conciergerie and Place de la Concorde. In the evening enjoy a walk along the Champs-Elysees, followed by a cruise along the River Seine. (BB)

Day 3: Disneyland in Paris

Spend the day at Disneyland Paris. Included in your tour is a full-day, one-park pass to either Disneyland Park or Disney Studio Park. (BB)

Day 4: Versailles & D-Day Memorial

Travel this morning to Versailles and visit the Palace of Versailles to see its opulent rooms and gardens. Experience the extraordinary Hall of Mirrors where the historic Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending World War I.  Continue to Arromanches and visit the D-Day Memorial. It’s then onto Bayeux for our overnight stay. (BB, D)

Day 5: Battle of the Somme

Today we visit Amiens and the nearby Somme Battlefields, where some of the most intense fighting took place during World War I. More than 3 million men fought in this battle with1 million wounded or killed. We visit some of the many interesting memorials and museums dedicated to the fallen. Our overnight stay is in Amiens.  (BB, D)

Day 6: The Lost Territories - Strasbourg

We travel to Verdum where you will visit the Verdum Battlefields and War Memorial.  Our journey continues to Strasbourg, on the border of Germany, for our overnight stay. (BB)

Day 7: Strasbourg to Colmar

In the morning travel to Colmar where you will enjoy a boat tour in the canal quarter, followed by a walking tour around Petite Venise and the historic centre. From Colmar, continue to Riquewihr for a walking tour in the town.  We then visit Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg for a visit to the castle, before arriving back in Strasbourg for our overnight stay. (BB)

Day 8: Europa Park & Friedrichshafen

Spend the day at the Europa Park, one of the best theme parks in Europe. This evening we overnight in Friedrichshafen. (BB, D)

Day 9: Meersburg Castle onto Munich

Begin your morning with a walk up to Meersburg Castle. We then make our way to the well-known Neuschwanstein for a tour to the castle and a horse-carriage ride down the mountain. Then it’s onto Munich where a Local Expert will take you on a walking tour in the city centre, including key sites related to Hitler’s time in Munich and the Third Reich. Finally we visit the Nazi Documentation Centre. (BB)

Day 10: Eagle’s Nest & Obersalzburg

A short drive out of Munich, visit Hitler’s former retreat, known as the Eagle’s Nest. Afterwards, stop for lunch at Obersalzburg (own expense) and continue to the Konigsee for a boat tour on the Lake and a chance to swim in Lake Chiemsee. Return to Munich for your overnight stay. (BB)

Day 11: Dachau & Rothenburg

We start the day with a tour to the Munich Residenz Museum. It is then onto Dachau for a sobering visit to the concentration camp. Our overnight stay is in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. (BB)

Day 12: Explore Medieval Rothenburg

Rothenburg was regarded by the Nazis as the most “German” of German towns. Visit the Museum of Torture, explore the medieval city and battlements, and join a Nightwatchman tour. (BB)

Day 13: Nazi History in Nuremberg

We depart Rothenburg and continue to Nuremburg in the morning. On arrival, join a Local Expert for a tour to city centre. Walk up to the Kaiserburg Castle, visit the Nazi parade grounds and the Albert Speer Documentation Centre to bring to life the history of Hitler’s rise to power. In the afternoon, visit the Palace of Justice and Courtroom 600, the location of the Nuremburg Nazi trials. (BB)

Day 14: Onto Magical Prague

This morning travel to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. On arrival, join your Travel Director for an orientation tour of the old town centre, including the town square, St Nicholas Church and Tyn Church. Afterwards visit Prague Castle and walk to Charles Bridge. (BB)

Day 15: Museum visits in Prague

Visit The Prague Communism Museum, Jewish Museum and the Kepler Museum today. (BB)

Day 16: Military History in Dresden

In the morning we travel to Dresden where we join a Local Expert for a tour of the Dresden’s Zwinger Palace, the Bundeswehr Military History Museum, the Dresden Armoury and Frauenkirche. (BB)

Day 17: Tropical Islands Water Park

Depart Dresden and spend the day at the Tropical Islands Water theme park. (BB)

Day 18: Berlin Sightseeing

Tour to Berlin starts with a visit to the ‘Story of Berlin’ Museum to provide an overview of the city’s tumultuous history. Your journey with a Local Expert includes the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie, sections of the Berlin Wall and Alexanderplatz. Visit also the Zeppelin Field and the Jewish Museum, the German Resistance Memorial Centre and the Holocaust Memorial. (BB)

Day 19: Farewell Berlin

On our final morning we visit the Wansee Haus Museum and Documentation Centre of the “Final Solution”. Later, explore the DDR Museum to learn about life under communist rule after the end of World War II. We bid farewell to Berlin and make our way to the airport for flights home. (BB)

Day 1: Welcome to Florence

Welcome to Italy! On arrival at Bologna airport, you will be met by your Travel Director and driver. We continue to our hotel in Florence where you’ll have time to settle in, before enjoying a welcome dinner at the hotel. (WD)

Day 2: Discover Florence

After a restful night’s sleep and breakfast at the hotel, we visit the Basilica di Santa Croce and Museo Galileo, home to the only surviving instruments designed and built by Galileo himself. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Florence. (BB)

Day 3: Florence at your Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure. Explore captivating Florence at your own pace or join your Travel Director for a day tour to Vallombrosa to see the Monastery where Galileo studied. (Guided tours only available in July & August). (BB)

Day 4: Bologna to Padua

After breakfast at your hotel, spend the morning at leisure. In the afternoon, we drive through Bologna to Padua where you’ll enjoy a local 3-course dinner alongside a guest lecturer from the Padua University. (Lecturer organised by MTG.)  (BB, HD)

Day 5: Padua to Venice

Today we visit the Il Bo University, the second oldest university in Italy, for a guided tour. The afternoon is free for you to visit the Botanical gardens and St Anthony Basilica. Later in the afternoon, we continue to our hotel, situated in Mestre Venice, where we will stay for 2 nights. (BB)

Day 6: Romantic Venice at your Leisure

After breakfast, the rest of the day is yours to explore romantic Venice at leisure. (BB)

Day 7: Onto Swiss Geneva

Les Nations Hotel After a restful night’s sleep, we cross the border to Switzerland. On arrival into Geneva enjoy a late afternoon cruise on Lake Geneva.   Afterwards we check into our hotel. (BB)

Day 8: Nuclear Science in Cern & Geneva Exploration

After breakfast we travel to CERN (subject to availability) to visit the European Organisation for Nuclear Research and see the Large Hadron Collider, the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city of Geneva. (BB)

Day 9: Geneva to Paris

Enjoy a delightful drive through the French countryside, as we make our way to Paris. On arrival you are free to relax or explore the city of love on your own. Gather for dinner at the hotel, during which you’ll enjoy the company of a guest speaker from the Marie Curie Museum. (Lecturer organised by MTG.) (BB, D)

Day 10: Gardens of Paris

Visit the Botanical Gardens in the morning. Here you will discover the Alpine Gardens, which contain 2000 mountain plants from all over the world. Wander through the rose garden, the iris garden and the Botany School's Garden, where 4500 species are labelled and regrouped by families. (BB)

Day 11: Arts & Metier Museum in Paris

Take time to visit the Arts and Metier Museum and spend the rest of the day at leisure to explore the wonderful city of Paris. (BB)

Day 12: Science in Paris

After breakfast in the morning, visit the Marie Curie Museum. Completely re-designed, the Museum reveals the life and times of a family of unusual physicists and their huge contribution to science. The rest of the day is at leisure. (BB)

Day 13: Paris at your Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city of Paris. (BB)

Day 14: Eurostar to London

Bid farewell to Paris today, as we travel by Eurostar to London. On arrival we will be met and transferred to a local pub for lunch. We’ll then check into our hotel and you’ll have the rest of the day to enjoy at leisure. (BB, L)

Day 15: Day Tour to Kent

Today we travel to Kent to visit the Down House, the home of Charles Darwin, before returning to our London hotel. (BB)

Day 16: Scientific Marvels of London

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, including a visit to the Royal Observatory, Flamsteed, Meridian Courtyard and Maritime Museum, and a cruise on the River Thames. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (BB)

Day 17: Royal Society & Faraday Museum in London

This morning we visit the Royal Society followed by a visit to the Faraday Museum at the Royal Institution.  Lunch is served at a local restaurant. (BB, L)

Day 18: Westminster & Science Museum in London

We spend the morning visiting Westminster Abbey and the afternoon exploring the Science Museum in Kensington. (BB)

Day 19: Discover Cambridge

After breakfast, we continue to the university town of Cambridge for a 2-night stop. Enjoy a private walking exploration of the town including a visit to Trinity College – the largest of the Cambridge Colleges. (BB)

Day 20: Cambridge at your Leisure

Today is yours to explore at leisure.  We meet again in the evening to celebrate the end of our tour with a farewell dinner at our hotel. (BB, D)

Day 21: Farewell from London

Our science tour has come to an end. Transfer from Cambridge to the London Heathrow Airport for your flight home. (BB)

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An Art Lovers Taste of Europe (15 Days)

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• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Arrive in Rome
• Day 2 Rome Sightseeing
• Day 3 Galleria Borghese and free time
• Day 4 Orvieto and on to Renaissance Florence
• Day 5 Renaissance Florence
• Day 6 Florence to Milan
• Day 7 Explore Milan
• Day 8 Milan to Basel
• Day 9 Foundation Beyeler Museum
• Day 10 Lucerne to Paris
• Day 11 The Best of Paris
• Day 12 Musée d’Orsay
• Day 13 Paris to Amsterdam
• Day 14 Artistic Amsterdam
• Day 15 Farewell Amsterdam

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Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Insight Vacations 4.5
• Tarunisha · 10th January 2024 Excellent and unique experience
• Renata · 8th January 2024 The best experience ever... The driver and Lara were amazing. I would recommend it to everyone.
• Maria · 29th December 2023 Jampacked activities and I really wished it had more free time. More days spent in Switzerland instead of Germany... Show more

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• Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Switzerland. Ideally 6 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
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• World's Best Awards 2024

15 Best Cities to Visit in Europe in 2024, According to T+L Readers

Our readers vote for the metropolises that continue to enchant them in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2024.

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

For centuries, travelers have gravitated to the great cities of Europe — and time has shown that the attractions of the past aren’t all too different from the attractions of the present. Food, art, architecture, nightlife, shopping, parks, style, and the chance to people-watch: our readers continue to call out the pleasures that these cities and capitals hold.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey , T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey. A total of more than 700,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Sights/landmarks
• Friendliness

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Peter Horvath/iStockphoto/Getty Images

For many readers, the Mediterranean will always be magic, so it’s no surprise that a whopping six cities on this year’s list are in Spain, four more than last year — good to see you, Marbella (No. 4) and Granada (No. 13). Last year, Portugal was represented by Porto and Lisbon; this year, Funchal has vaulted to the number two slot. And while Istanbul (No. 5) has been booted from the top slot by Florence, Turkey nevertheless has had a good year, seeing Bodrum jump onto the list at No. 15.

While climate change has made summers in Southern Europe hotter than ever, readers are loath to give up their affection for the warmer parts of the continent. Edinburgh, which sits as it did last year at no. 12, is the sole European city in our top 15 north of the Alps. Sorry, Paris and London — there’s always next year.

1. Florence, Italy

iStockphoto/Getty Images

Yes, it’s crowded, and yes, the ticket lines are long (book ahead), and yes, in summer it can be as hot as blazes. And yet there’s a reason our readers voted the Tuscan capital as the best city in Europe. “Florence is amazing,” writes one voter, “rich in history and definitely a place for romance. The food is delightful and the people are the salt of the earth.” From Michaelangelo masterpieces to Harry’s Bar, the Oltrarno neighborhood to intimate neighborhood restaurants, Florence has something for everyone.

Reader Score: 90.55

2. Funchal, Portugal

Maya Karkalicheva/Getty Images

Is it the cobblestone streets, the ocean views, the overflowing fruit stalls at the open-air markets that attract our readers? Sure, all of the above. But blame it on the wine — the island of Maderia’s eponymous beverage can be found in wineries and tasting rooms throughout the city.

Reader Score: 89.82

3. San Sebastian, Spain

John Harper/Getty Images

Overlooking the sheltered La Concha Beach, this small Basque city beguiles with its buzzing urban beach and narrow streets lined with historic architecture. And don’t miss those pintxos: “It’s one of the most beautiful cities with the most unreal food,” writes one reader. “And for some reason it’s ridiculously affordable.”

Reader Score: 89.66

4. Marbella, Spain

Artur Debat/Getty Images

“Untouched by time,” one reader describes this sunny beach town on the Costa del Sol. But while Marbella’s Old Town offers whitewashed buildings and flower-festooned balconies right out of central casting, the shoreline promises modern-day resorts and beaches that are a paradise for sun worshippers.

Reader Score: 89.57

5. Istanbul, Turkey

Last year, Florence was bested from its position atop this list by Istanbul; this year, Florence has battled its way back to the top. No matter: readers continue to fall in love with this enchanting Turkish city. “In my opinion, Istanbul is the most important city in the world,” writes one reader. “It is number one with its history, culture, location, and beauty.”

Reader Score: 89.15

6. Porto, Portugal

Rodrigo Cardoso

This much-loved city, almost two hours’ drive from the Douro Valley wine region, is praised by readers for its walkable downtown, romantic cafes, and robust nightlife. “Add in great food, wine, and port,” writes one reader, “and what is not to love?”

Reader Score: 88.85

7. Rome, Italy

Camilla Glorioso

“The Eternal City never ceases to be alluring,” writes one reader, “from its exquisite architecture and historic sites to its dining, shopping, and simply strolling its charming streets and piazzas.” With ancient history on every corner, the city miraculously straddles eras, feeling both timeless and of the moment. “Every day there was a new adventure,” says one voter.

Reader Score: 88.44

8. Barcelona, Spain

Aimee Tavares/iStockphoto/Getty Images

The Catalan capital has become something of a poster child for overtourism, but that doesn’t get in the way of our readers’ appreciation. Writes one voter: “Our recent visit to Barcelona was nothing short of a love affair with a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and a vibrant contemporary spirit. One of the highlights was undoubtedly the architectural masterpiece that is Gaudí's Sagrada Família. Standing in the shadow of its towering spires, we were awestruck by the sheer ingenuity and artistic brilliance that went into its creation.”

Reader Score: 87.94

9. Madrid, Spain

James Rajotte

“If the world was a school,” one reader writes, “Madrid is the cool kid.” According to another, “The love for life runs in [the Madrileños] blood and it is absolutely contagious.” Readers single out the world-class museums, the tranquil parks and gardens, and even the street art. Adds one contributor: “A flamenco show is a definite MUST.”

Reader Score: 87.46

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Sure, Rome has its hills — but the Portuguese capital’s gradations are nothing to sneeze at. More than a few readers commented on the workouts they had exploring the city. And yet, “Lisboa has stolen my heart,” as one reader exclaimed. “It’s a lovely, decadent city, untouched and remarkably romantic.”

Reader Score: 87.27

11. Seville, Spain

Marcus Lindstrom/Getty Images

The capital of Andalusia wins plaudits from T+L readers for its “lively waterfront,” “delicious tapas,” and “beautiful architecture.” But Seville’s most enchanting aspect was its warm, engaging residents: “Friendly and passionate people who love their city.” We loved the city because everyone was so willing to let us be a part of their day-to-day lives,” writes one traveler. “Even though I don’t speak Spanish fluently, many were patient and excited by my effort to speak in their native tongue.”

Reader Score: 87.23

12. Edinburgh, Scotland

Hayley Benoit

“Spirited and elegant,” one reader describes the Scottish capital; its handsome architecture sits in harmony with its natural surroundings.” According to another, “the food is very good (except haggis) and the whiskies even better.”

Reader Score: 87.11

13. Granada, Spain

Almost all of the fans of this city commented on the Alhambra, the sprawling palace that is one of the world’s most transcendent examples of Islamic architecture. But Granada is more than its most famous landmark. “It's filled with special stores and cafes,” writes one voter. “Don’t miss the outdoor trolley.” Others praise the “cozy restaurants,” “beautiful streets,” and “modern nightlife.”

Reader Score: 87.05

14. Siena, Italy

Looking to escape the crowds of Florence? This walled Tuscan city, a short drive away, has all of the charm — and equally good gelato. “Siena was absolutely magical for us!” writes one reader. “It has beautiful churches, piazzas, and medieval streets. We took a fun wine course and stayed at small, delicious, family-owned taverns.”

Reader Score: 86.75

15. Bodrum, Turkey

This ancient city offers pleasures both past and present, from archaeological sites to a vibrant nightlife scene. “The town is pretty, with bougainvillea-covered buildings and cordial locals,” one reader writes; “greatest resort in the Aegean, hands down,” posits another.

Reader Score: 86.74

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