Europe Travel Guide

There are no limits to what you can discover and enjoy in Europe.

From the ancient monuments of Italy and regal elegance of France to the culinary delights of Spain and the enchanting islands of Greece, your dream vacation will come to life when you plan your trip with a top travel specialist.

Let your imagination run wild with the inspiration and information provided by Zicasso’s Europe Travel Guide.

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Val d'Orcia hills, Tuscany.

Why ‘Slow Travel’ in Europe is the New Luxury

A traveler’s scarcest asset is time. Specifically, the return on time invested. In other words, what a trip actually gives back in exchange for the days...
Grand canal and Santa Maria della Salute Basilica in Venice, Italy

Best Time to Visit Europe

The best times to visit Europe are typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), as these periods offer the benefits of traveling...
Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

Top 10 Things to Do in Europe

The top things to do in Europe will expose you to experiences that engage all your senses. From the ancient world coming alive through touch and sound...
Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

15 Best Places to Visit in Europe

The best places to visit in Europe are full of storybook skylines, sun‑splashed coastlines, and mountain passes that have witnessed centuries of legend...
Orange and blue umbrellas on the beach in Positano on the Amalfi Coast of Italy

How to Plan a Trip to Europe: Frequently Asked Questions

The most common questions about planning a trip to Europe revolve around when to go, how long to stay, and how to choose between the continent’s many...
Canal in Ghent, Belgium

Top 12 Most Underrated Cities in Europe

The most underrated cities in Europe tend to sit within sight of the destinations that overshadow them: a fortress town an hour from Prague, a coastal...
Mother and daughter overlooking Rome

Top 9 Things to Do in Europe with Family

The top things to do in Europe with family are best enjoyed when they are sequenced correctly. They are destined to fail if you visit a Roman ruin at...
Happy family of three having fun together in Paris near the eiffel tower

6 Best Places to Visit in Europe with Family

The best places to visit in Europe with family let a 10-year-old and a teenager have a good day for entirely different reasons, without either waiting...
Rector's Palace in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Our 12 Most Requested European Itineraries

Europe’s grand capitals, charming villages, and dramatic coastlines make it endlessly appealing for luxury travelers, with our 12 most-requested European...
Tower Bridge in London, England

Our 7 Best Europe Itineraries for First-Timers

Our best Europe itineraries for first-timers are designed to turn a dream of “seeing Europe” into a sequence of days that actually work on the ground....
Belvedere Palace and Gardens in Vienna, Austria

7 Best Places to Visit in Europe for Seniors

The best places to visit in Europe for seniors are filled with an unimaginable wealth of art, architecture, culture, and natural splendor, abounding with...
Vineyards in southwestern France

16 Best Food and Wine Destinations in Europe

The best food and wine destinations in Europe invite you to taste how culture and landscape become flavor, turning every sip and bite into a story about...
A couple hold hands strolling through the romantic village of Saint-Émilion in Bordeaux, France

5 Most Romantic Places in Europe for Couples

The most romantic places in Europe for couples reveal just how many ways the continent can stage a love story, from vineyards‑draped hills to lantern‑lit...
Thermal hot springs in Tuscany, Italy

10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Europe for Couples

The most romantic things to do in Europe for couples do not add up to a list of famous stops. The activities on this list have been chosen because they...
Manarola, Italy

Should I Plan a Single or Multi-Country Trip to Europe?

Deciding whether to plan a single‑country or multi‑country trip to Europe is ultimately about why you are traveling and what kind of depth you want from...
The Louvre in Paris, France

10 Best Cities for Art Lovers in Europe

The best cities for art lovers in Europe reveal how creativity shapes local character, from Florence’s Renaissance streets to Berlin’s experimental galleries....
Gorgeouse beach and the clear blue Mediterranean sea in Paxos, Greece

Our 7 Best Mediterranean Vacations

Our seven best Mediterranean vacations celebrate the dynamic destination by showing the surprising diversity of culture, landscapes, and charm. From...
Hallstatt, Austria

Europe in January: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

From snowy alpine slopes to mild Mediterranean shores, Europe in January presents diverse experiences for every type of traveler. During January, you...
Florence, Italy

Europe in February: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Europe in February offers a unique blend of snowy alpine slopes and mild Mediterranean shores. During February, you can expect a continent transformed...
Lake Bled, Slovenia

Europe in March: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Europe in March offers a unique blend of late winter charm and early spring renewal. As the continent awakens from its winter slumber, you can enjoy a...
Park in Edinburgh, Scotland during spring

Europe in April: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

April in Europe marks the beginning of spring, offering you a chance to experience the continent in full bloom. With milder temperatures and a lively...
Cannobio on Lake Maggiore, Italy

Europe in May: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

May is one of the best times to visit Europe, offering pleasant weather, colorful landscapes, and a mix of unforgettable experiences. When visiting Europe...
Gidaki Beach on Ithaca Island, Greece

Europe in June: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Europe in June is an enchanting time to visit, offering you a balance of pleasant weather, cultural celebrations, and fewer crowds. During June, you...
Burgundy, France

Europe in August: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

August is a fantastic time to visit Europe, offering a diverse array of experiences and opportunities for travelers of all kinds. Across the continent,...
Tuscany, Italy

Europe in October: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

October is a fabulous month to explore Europe, as the continent is filled with vibrant autumn colors. With fewer crowds and a milder climate, it's an...
Kufstein, Austria

Europe in November: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

November in Europe is a time when the continent’s charm shines in unexpected ways, offering experiences you won’t find at any other time of year. As...
Italy

Europe in December: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Europe in December can feel majestic with its blend of festive cheer, winter sports, and cultural experiences. From snowcapped mountains to cozy Christmas...
Clear blue waterof the Mediterrenean and golden sand at Tuerredda Beach in Tuerredda Beach in Sardinia, Italy

Europe in Summer: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Europe in summer is a treasure trove of experiences, offering everything from sun-soaked beaches to vibrant festivals and cultural events. The long days...
Ramsau Bei Berchtesgaden in the Bavarian Alps, Germany

Europe in Winter: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Winter transforms Europe into a magical wonderland, offering a unique blend of festive cheer, cozy atmospheres, and stunning snow-covered landscapes....
Hamburg skyline in winter with Christmas trees

12 Best Places in Europe for Christmas

The best places in Europe for Christmas arrange themselves around firelight, ritual, and table. A market stall in Nuremberg or a midnight choir in Seville...
Villandry Castle in Loire Valley in France

How to Spend 10, 14, or 21 Days in Europe

How to plan your trip to Europe depends mostly on the amount of time you have, in addition to your interests, needs, and expectations. Our examples of...
Biker with view of Elba Island in Tuscany, Italy

9 Best Cycling Destinations in Europe

The best cycling destinations in Europe allow you to move slowly enough to catch the smell of ripening grapes at the edge of a vineyard, yet fast enough...
Hiking trail in the Dolomites, Italy

7 Best Places to Hike in Europe

The best places to hike in Europe rarely reward the same kind of hiker twice. A trail chosen purely for its view often fails the person who walks it because...
The Small Heaven of Amalfi Village in Italy

How to spend 10, 14, or 21 Days in Greece and Italy

Planning your grand Mediterranean tour across Greece and Italy represents an exploration of Western civilization's greatest achievements, each offering...
Seaside village of Port Isaac in Cornwall, England

Best Time to Visit England, Ireland, and Scotland

Discover the wonders of fascinating and diverse countries when you travel during the best time to visit England, Ireland, and Scotland. In all three,...
Hiker in Glencoe, Scotland

How to Spend 10, 14, or 21 Days in England, Ireland & Scotland

Embark on an epic adventure of classic England, Ireland, and Scotland by dividing your time between the three countries over 10, 14, and 21 days. Explore...
The Tower of London in London, England

Best Time To Visit London and Paris

The best time to visit London and Paris is late spring into early summer, from May to June and again when the summer season winds down and the fall starts...
Small Paris street with view of the famous Eiffel Tower

How to Spend 10, 14, or 21 Days in London and Paris

How to plan your trip to London and Paris can depend on the time you have to spend on your vacation, while understanding how it should be split between...
Medieval village of Obidos in Portugal

Spain vs Portugal: Where Should I Travel?

When choosing between Spain and Portugal for your vacation on the Iberian Peninsula, you can find breathtaking beaches, awe-inspiring historical towns,...
Female traveler at overlook in Lisbon, Portugal

7 Best Spain and Portugal Itineraries

Spain and Portugal invite you into a world of sunlit plazas, Moorish palaces, riverside wine estates, and Atlantic coasts, and our seven best Spain and...
Senior traveler standing between colorful pillars at Palau de la Música Catalana in Barcelona, Spain

Our 9 Best European Tours for Seniors

Experience the rich history and culture of Europe with our nine best European tours for seniors. These thoughtfully designed journeys cater to the mature...
Playa de Bolonia in Cádiz, Spain

10 Best Beaches in Portugal & Spain

Spain and Portugal boast some of Europe's most stunning coastal destinations. From golden sands to hidden coves, these Iberian neighbors offer a diverse...
The Manor House Golf Club in Castle Combe, England

10 Best European Golf Destinations

Our list of the 10 best European golf destinations includes courses with rich heritage in diverse landscapes, making them a dream for golf enthusiasts....
Woman biking on dirt road towards Pienza in Tuscany, Italy

10 Best Cycling Trails in Europe

The best cycling trails in Europe provide an alternative way to experience the continent's history, cultures, and landscapes. With an extensive network...
Outdoor dining scene at Copenhagen Cooking and Food Festival, people enjoying food in a lively square.

10 Best Food Festivals in Europe

Food festivals in Europe celebrate cuisine, culture, and community as they showcase the continent’s diverse gastronomic traditions. From the bustling...
Open-air opera performance on a floating stage at sunset with a dramatic backdrop and calm waters

10 Best Arts Festivals in Europe

Europe’s best arts festivals are a celebration of creativity, culture, and human expression, drawing visitors from across the globe. From vibrant street...
Dutch National Ballet Gala in Amsterdam, Netherlands

8 Best Dance Festivals in Europe

Europe is home to some of the world’s most exceptional dance festivals, where tradition meets innovation in stunning settings. From grand opera houses...
Colorful tulip garden at Tulip Festival Amsterdam with a windmill and visitors on a bright spring day

8 Best Flower Shows in Europe

Vibrant flower shows and festivals bloom across Europe in spring. From the iconic tulip fields of the Netherlands to the stunning floral carpets of Belgium,...
Tren Al-Andalus. Photo courtesy of: www.eltrenalandalus.com

8 Best Luxury Train Trips in Europe

The best luxury train trips in Europe present experiences during which vintage elegance meets modern comfort. Climb aboard for refined travel reminiscent...
Plaza de España in Seville, Spain, featuring a grand fountain, historic architecture, and a horse-drawn carriage

Spain vs France: Where Should I Travel?

Choosing between Spain and France is like stepping into two vastly different yet equally mesmerizing worlds. Both countries promise enchanting landscapes,...
A woman admires Santorini’s breathtaking caldera and deep blue Aegean Sea.

Croatia vs Greece: Where Should I Travel?

Croatia and Greece paint vivid portraits of Mediterranean splendor, each offering a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and coastal beauty. Greece’s...
Family on vacation in Slovenia.

Greece vs Slovenia: Where Should I Travel?

Greece and Slovenia present distinct faces of European luxury travel. Ancient mythology, crystalline waters, and iconic island landscapes in Greece will...
Medieval village in Rovinj, Croatia.

Croatia vs Italy: Where Should I Travel?

Croatia and Italy are stunning destinations. Each offers a mix of experiences, from the sun-kissed Adriatic coast to ancient ruins, making the choice...
Luxury vacation on the Mediterranean Sea in Spain.

Spain vs Italy: Where Should I Travel?

Spain and Italy are Mediterranean overflow with culture, culinary excellence, and historical treasures. Both are filled with passionate energy and timeless...
Galicia, Spain.

Portugal vs Spain: Where Should I Travel?

Portugal and Spain captain maritime heritage, culinary mastery, and historical riches. Both are filled with Mediterranean spirit and timeless appeal,...
The Eiffel Tower stands tall over Paris with golden sunset hues.

Paris vs Rome: Where Should I Travel?

Artistic grandeur, culinary excellence, and centuries of history are what you will uncover in Paris and Rome. Both capitals have endless architectural...
Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival Finale with Daniel Hope in Germany

10 Best Classical Music Festivals in Europe

If the word "classical" is music to your ears, you can experience one of the 10 best classical music festivals in Europe during a customized vacation...
Vineyard in the hills of Burgundy, France.

8 Luxury Barge Tours with Private Chefs in France and England

Sailing through tranquil canals lined with historic villages and lush landscapes, you can experience the true essence of slow travel. Barge tours in France...
Drangarnir sea stacks rising from the Atlantic Ocean near Vágar, Faroe Islands, with dramatic cliffs and waves crashing below.

Top 7 Things to Do in the Faroe Islands

Mythical, dramatic, and breathtakingly beautiful, the top things to do in the Faroe Islands give you the chance to create timeless memories of a remote...
Belgium, in the splendor of spring.

Belgium in Spring: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Belgium in spring sees the crisp air soften, bright green leaves unfurl against a pale blue sky, and the fragrance of cherry blossoms and damp earth drifting...
The Brussels Triumphal Arch in Belgium.

Belgium in Fall: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Belgium in fall carries a golden-hued tranquility that spreads across the country. The air is crisp and gentle, mellow light creates a backdrop for cozy...
Grote Markt in Belgium, decorated for the Christmas season.

Belgium in Winter: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Belgium in winter transforms into a world of crisp air and twinkling lights. Long, dark nights create a backdrop for festive cheer, the fragrance of mulled...
A quiet path in the Ardennes forest under yellow autumn leaves.

7 Uniquely Belgian Culinary Experiences

To truly understand Belgium, you must go beyond its restaurants and enter its kitchens, forests, and monasteries. Our hands-on Belgian culinary experiences...
Couple enjoying a boat ride across the Bay of Kotor near Kotor, Montenegro

What is Montenegro Known For? Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Montenegro is known to reveal itself quietly. Within a compact frame, it gathers together a dramatic Adriatic coast, medieval stone towns, and rugged...
Aerial view of historic church on island lake

What is Slovenia Known For? Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

Slovenia is known for sunlit Adriatic towns, vine-striped hills, and snowcapped alpine peaks blanketed in the ambiance of quiet assurance. Between the...
Historic guildhalls and Town Hall surrounding Grand Place square in Brussels, Belgium

How to Plan a Trip to Belgium: Frequently Asked Questions

The most frequently asked questions about a trip to Belgium focus on when to visit the country, what to do there, and the best places to visit. Belgium...
Sunlit historic buildings along a calm canal with flowers foreground.

Belgium in Summer: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More

In Belgium in summer, the country awakens to gentle sunshine and long, light-filled days melt into pleasant, sociable nights. The fragrance of frites...
Historic stone buildings and bridge illuminated during a blue hour.

Top 10 Dishes to Taste in Belgium

Beyond the worldwide fame of its waffles, chocolate, and frites , our top dishes to taste in Belgium reflect a deeply regional culinary experience that...

Accessible Travel: Planning a Wheelchair-Friendly Luxury Vacation in Europe

Europe's charm is inseparable from the very things that make it hardest to navigate in a wheelchair. The cobblestones that give Rome's back streets their...
Balloons over Cappadocia in Turkey.

How to Plan Your Zicasso Trip in 4 Easy Steps

Explore the world with Zicasso by working with top travel specialists who will bring your dream vacation to life. Our primary goal is to make planning,...
Aerial view of luxury overwater bungalows on Bora Bora island in French Polynesia.

How to Plan Your Zicasso Trip Budget in 3 Easy Steps

Knowing your budget is an essential component of any trip-planning process. Whether the sky's the limit or you have specific parameters, a customized...

4.9

Reviews of Zicasso's European Tours

Based on 35167 verified traveler reviews.

Ireland Travel Review: Cliffs, Killarney, Sheep Herding, Guides, Drivers, 8 Nights

Zicasso's travel specialist was great. Listened to our goals... put together a great itinerary.

Our guides and drivers were all great. All connections went smoothly.

We had a great time!

Thanks.

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Austria, Switzerland Travel Review: People, Culture, History, Scenery, Private Transport/Guides, 9 Nights

The recommended excursions and private guides that accompanied them were excellent. Excellent organizational planning and travel logistics by Zicasso's travel company. Destination book is an extremely valuable tool for organizing, managing, and storing travel docs, tickets, passes, map directions, and contact information. It really made things easy!

The hotel selections were very good and well located. We would have preferred a slightly larger room in Vienna and Luzern; however, they were clean and efficient, with excellent staff. The dinner suggestions that we did follow were very good.

Our travel specialist was great to work with, had it dialed in. We look forward to working with the travel companty's team for our next trip to northern Europe.

Thank you.

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Greece Anniversary Travel Review: Catamaran Trips, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting

The trip was fabulously planned by Zicasso's travel specialist. It exceeded our expectations.

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Italy Travel Review: People, Cuisine, Ambiance

Drivers and guides were top-notch!! On time and very pleasant. The hotel accommodations were excellent and well located for excursions and activities. Our Zicasso contact was very helpful when questions arose. All in all, it was a well-planned and unforgettable trip! Thanks to all!

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Germany Travel Review: Winery, Castle, Miniature Museum, Driver, Guides, Brewery, Cuisine

Our group of 12 recently completed an unforgettable nine-day customized tour of Germany, staying in three cities and covering seven different cities, and we highly recommend this Zicasso travel company. From the initial planning stages to our final day, the trip was amazing, filled with all the adventures we asked for and much more.

What made the trip exceptional was the company owner accompanied us throughout the entire journey. Having him there as our personal tour director, translator, concierge, and new friend, ensured that everything ran like clockwork. The transfers were seamless, the private driver was excellent, and the local guides arranged for us in each city were incredibly knowledgeable and engaging.

If you are looking for a high-end, stress-free, and deeply personalized travel experience, look no further. Thank you for an incredible nine days!

Comments from fellow travelers:

"The company owner was very personable and knowledgeable, and each day was a great experience. What a wonderful trip.” Fondly, Teri K.

“The wine tour was our favorite as the wine was delicious and the winery owner most pleasant. His wine is so successful he has a vending machine of his wines on the road! There is no place in America that has this! Our tour guide, the owner of the travel company, was able to translate some of the conversation, which was most helpful. I highly recommend touring this winery and booking your travels through this company.” Jenny and Dennis W.

“We really enjoyed the miniature museum in Hamburg, especially the behind-the-scenes tour! The best hotel was in Berlin. All the guides were personable, knowledgeable, and good to answer questions. Thanks! We had a wonderful trip with you all!” Pam and Kevin S.

“We appreciated the company owner being there every step of the way. Coordinating the tour guides in the cities and helping to interpret when needed at the wine tasting.” Wendy and Larry A.

“Yes! We loved the hotel and dinner for our anniversary! Also appreciated the shift to the winery since the river cruise was cut short, and that he made the reservation for the brewery, with the hotel being so busy.” Dan and Kathy M.

“I had a wonderful time. Let’s do it again.” Robert K.

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Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia 40th-Anniversary Travel Review: Dubrovnik, Hvar, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Rovinj, Ljubljana

We had a fantastic trip through Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia, traveling from Dubrovnik to Hvar, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Rovinj, and Ljubljana, with day trips into Montenegro and other parts of Slovenia along the way.

Zicasso's travel company did an amazing job of helping us create the trip we wanted. From the beginning, they listened to our ideas, made suggestions, and worked with us as our plans evolved. Our travel specialist got everything started, another helped us fine-tune the itinerary and make several changes, and the third was always quick to respond and help while we were traveling.

Everything was seamlessly coordinated. We loved the hotels and excursions they selected, and the private drivers and tour guides added so much to the experience. Just as important was knowing that the company was only a message away if we had a question or needed anything while traveling. That kind of support gave us peace of mind and allowed us to simply enjoy the trip.

I’ve already recommended Zicasso and this travel company to others and will absolutely look to Zicasso when we’re ready to plan our next adventure.

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