Europe - Explore

This Unique City In Europe Is A Culturally-Rich Destination To Visit In 2026

By Felix Gott 13 hours ago

A coastal city in Finland was chosen as the "Capital of Culture" in Europe in 2026. Here's a look at what makes the town culturally rich and unique.

woman enjoying a panoramic view of the city

A Captivating Mediterranean City In Spain Boasts Vibrant History, Culture, & Coastal Charm

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 24 hours ago

This stunning city on the coast of Spain offers access to the beautiful Mediterranean Sea, delicious paella, and tons of historic sites to explore.

This Charming River Valley Is One Of France's Cutest Regions, According To Rick Steves

By Olaoluwa Akinbayo 1 day ago

Discover this hidden-gem river valley in France, where visitors can explore waterfront chateaus, prehistoric caves, and take part in water sports like kayaking.

A snowy mountain scene at Saint-Gervais-les-Bains

This Charming Commune Is A Winter Wonderland Hidden In The French Alps

By Carolyn Hall 2 days ago

The French Alps are a skier's paradise, but the area offers more beyond the slopes. This quaint town is full of attractions to satiate the mind, body, and soul.

A group of friends enjoys street food at a vibrant market

Rick Steves Loves These Tours For A Culturally Immersive Dining Experience In Europe

By Felix Gott 3 days ago

While organized tours might seem, well, touristy, Rick Steves says this one type of tour offers a rich, insider's look into European culture and food.

The Kalmar Castle from across a canal with a willow tree in the foreground

Rick Steves Says The 'Most Magnificent Medieval Castle In Scandinavia' Can Be Found In This Lively Swedish City

By Mitchell Peterson 3 days ago

Filled with ancient castles, charming city walks, and delightful experiences, you won't want to skip traveling to this Rick Steves-approved Swedish city.

Croissants, cakes, berries, cheeseboard, and coffee on table spread

The Common Breakfast Myth Tourists Should Forget When Eating In France

By Felix Gott 4 days ago

Breakfast is a surprisingly simple meal for most French people, and there's one myth about how they eat their morning meal that isn't actually true.

The white houses of Vila do Corvo clinging to the cliffside on Corvo Island, Portugal

Europe's Most Remote Island Is A Lush Oasis With Stunning Waterfalls & Volcanic Scenery

By Tosh Bene 4 days ago

Getting to this remote, European island is as much of an adventure as exploring it with diverse wildlife, a cliffside village, and verdant calderas.

A stone bridge covered in flowers over the Carrowbeg River in Westport, Ireland

This Riverside Town In Ireland Boasts Scenic Hiking Trails, Lively Music, & Local Charm

By Tosh Bene 4 days ago

This charming town, located along the Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland's west coast, is quintessentially Irish with cozy pubs, fun day trips, and pilgrimage sites.

people swim in Italian pool Bagni Regina Giovanna on Capo di Sorrento

Italy's Hidden Natural Pools Offer A Pristine Swimming Oasis With Spectacular Views

By Nally Preseault 5 days ago

These natural pools located in a grotto on the Sorrento coast make a glorious destination for travelers looking to swim, sunbathe, and take in views.

Mickey and Minnie in royal robes at Disneyland Paris.

The Best Time To Visit Disneyland Paris And Take Advantage Of This Amazing Perk

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 5 days ago

For shorter lines on popular rides and character greetings, this is the best time to visit Disneyland Paris while taking advantage of this awesome perk.

Church tower behind historic buildings in Carmona, Andalusia

A Small Town Known As Europe's 'Bright Star' Has Impressive Landscapes With Scenic Views

By Felix Gott 5 days ago

Sumptuous views and spectacular landscapes are kind of Europe's thing, and you'll struggle to find better than those on offer in this Spanish town.

This Breathtaking Scottish Lake Is Just As Gorgeous As Loch Ness But With Fewer Crowds

By Ryan Cashman 6 days ago

Heading for the Highlands? Then trade your trip to the crowded Loch Ness for this lovely lake with less tourists, and an authentic Scottish experience.

Stay On Your Toes At This Iconic Paris Market If You Want To Avoid Getting Pickpocketed

By Rebecca Frankel 6 days ago

Paris' most famous outdoor market is rife with pickpockets, but caution and a few tips from Rick Steves can help you enjoy shopping without getting lifted.

Historic half-timbered houses line cobbled streets in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rick Steves Can't Help But Love This Super Touristy European Destination

By Felix Gott 6 days ago

This German destination may be a heavily trafficked medieval tourist trap, but Rick Steves still loves to visit despite the fact that it's almost a theme park.

A young man wearing a backpack waiting on a train platform

Avoid This Embarrassing Mishap When Traveling By Train In Some European Countries

By Tosh Bene 7 days ago

Long, scenic train rides in Europe may be romantic, but this common mistake can cause major problems and completely derail your travel plans.

Crates of apples and peppers at an outdoor market

Rick Steves' Simple Advice To Save Money When Shopping At European Markets

By Anna Robinson 7 days ago

European markets offer a taste of the local lifestyle, but before shopping for fruit and other items, learn how to save money with Rick Steves' tip.

Steep, tree-covered mountains surrounding an alpine lake

One Picturesque European National Park In The Alps Offers An Amazing Mountain Excursion

By Mitchell Peterson 7 days ago

The Alps are a must-visit for any world traveler, and for an epic mountain adventure, head to this less crowded but equally beautiful alpine national park.

A row of beach chairs and umbrellas scattered along a beach with turquoise water

This Common Luxury On Greek Beaches Is Becoming Absurdly Expensive Due To Tourists

By Tosh Bene 7 days ago

Tourists in Greece are reeling from shocking new beach prices. Here’s why a simple seaside day now costs a small fortune and what you can do to keep costs down.

A view of Cochem, Germany and the Moselle River

Rick Steves Says This German Riverboat Tour Is A Scenic Journey That Never Gets Old

By Tosh Bene 7 days ago

Float past clifftop castles, storybook villages, and vineyards on this European riverboat cruise that highlights the best of Germany, according to Rick Steves.

Colorful beach huts line the Danish coast

The 'Danish Riviera' Is One Of Europe's Coolest Strings Of Beaches For A Serene Getaway

By Rebecca Frankel 7 days ago

Discover one of Europe's best-kept secrets in this Danish region known for its stunning coastal landscapes, charming beachside villages, and cozy cafes.

Woman walking along pool at luxury resort

Ibiza's Most Unique Luxury Resort Puts Wellness, Art, And Fashion At The Forefront

By Amanda Zantal-Wiener 7 days ago

In the northern tip of Ibiza, this 5-star resort focuses on eco-friendly rejuvenation with farm-fresh restaurants, spa treatments, curated shopping, and more.

This Unspoken Rule Of Hiking Is Actually Expected When Hitting The Trails In Switzerland

By Sophie Baker 8 days ago

Reading up on local etiquette is always important when traveling, so keep this important tip in mind if you plan to do any hiking in Switzerland.

The Important Rick Steves Tour Policy Travelers Need To Understand Before Booking

By Amanda Morgan 8 days ago

Before joining a Rick Steves tour, familiarize yourself with this one rule that keeps trips enjoyable for everyone and ensures you know what to expect.

Pastel-colored multi-story buildings tightly built on a little peninsula by the sea in Bogliasco, Italy

A Stunning Coastal Village In Italy Offers Immaculate Views Decorated With Colorful Homes

By Mitchell Peterson 9 days ago

If your idea of paradise is a quaint coastal village full of colorful old buildings set against the sea, then this less-touristy town in Italy is for you.

Aerial view of a river lined with Baroque buildings

A Laid-Back City In Western Europe Boasts Stunning Architecture And Sights For Any Budget

By Shelby Nater 9 days ago

Western Europe isn't exactly known for its affordability, but there are still plenty of cities like this one that are perfect for a wallet-friendly visit.

This Charming Italian Town Along Lake Como Is A Less-Crowded Alternative To Bellagio

By Rebecca Frankel 9 days ago

The scenic towns of Bellagio and Varenna on Italy's wonderful Lake Como are all great, but there's an alternative on the western shore that's much less crowded.