Europe - Explore

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

By Amanda Morgan 10 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 11 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 11 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 11 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.

A small tower on an island in the water off the shores of land

This Tiny Island In Italy's Gulf Of Poets Is A Hidden Gem Attraction For History Buffs

By Tosh Bene 12 days ago

History buffs love Italy, and for good reason, it's full of famous attractions. And this tiny island in the Gulf of Poets is an historic hidden gem.

cooks in front of a Michelin star rated kitchen in NY

Rick Steves Enjoys These 'Splurge-Worthy' Restaurants In Europe For A Gourmet Experience

By Shelby Wilkerson 12 days ago

Europe's ultimate travel authority doesn't dole out lessons lightly. Here's what to do if you're looking for a great meal on the continent without going broke.

Ignoring This Escalator Etiquette In France Is Bound To Get You Some Irritated Looks

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 12 days ago

The last thing you want to do while visiting a foreign city, or any city, is irritate the locals, so be sure not to ignore this escalator etiquette in France.

Cochem Castle overlooking the town and the River Mosel, surrounded by autumn foliage

Rick Steves Says This Town In Germany's Romantic Mosel Valley Offers Fine Wine & Scenery

By Felix Gott 12 days ago

This European river town is an off-the-beaten-path stunner with medieval architecture, idyllic biking paths, and opportunities for cruises down the Mosel River.

The remains of the Villa Romana del Casele in the Sicilian countryside

This Stunning Palace In Italy Is An Open-Air Museum Full Of History, Culture, & Art

By Carolyn Hall 12 days ago

Discover the world's best preserved Roman mosaics at this UNESCO World Heritage Site in a sleepy Sicilian town that was hidden beneath mud for centuries.

A Coastal Town In Croatia Is Steeped In Pirate Lore, Stunning Landscapes, And Natural Scenery

By Felix Gott 12 days ago

There's more to Croatia than Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar, as this gorgeous coastal town shows. Just watch out for pirates while you are visiting.

A town square with pastel-colored buildings and leafy trees, under a blue sky

One Of The Largest Cities In The Czech Republic Boasts Historic Sites And Retro Charm

By Anna Robinson 13 days ago

This colorful Czech city is a great place for a scenic break, offering everything from music festivals to markets and even medieval castles.

Rick Steves Recommends Trying This Unique Hybrid Dish When Visiting Amsterdam

By Madison Scrivano 13 days ago

Travel expert Rick Steves says that if you're a serious travel foodie keen on exploring the Netherlands, there's one dish you definitely have to try.

A scenic Italian village on top of green rolling hills

The Best Way To Experience Abruzzo's Italian Mountain Charm Is With This Scenic Road Trip

By Tosh Bene 14 days ago

Interested in getting away from packed crowds and tourist traps on your trip to Italy? Consider a road trip through this scenic, mountain-filled region.

Cheerful travelers enjoying a meal in Italy

Gluten-Free Travelers Don't Need To Worry About Finding Pasta In Italy, Per Our Expert

By Sophie Baker 15 days ago

Trying to find gluten-free options in Italy may seem like an impossible task, but according to our expert, gluten-free travelers are in for a treat.

A happy couple enjoying a winter carnival

Rick Steves Recommends Visiting London During Christmastime For This Epic Festival

By Sophie Baker 15 days ago

If you want to be immersed in holiday spirit, look no further than this incredible festival that will help you make the most out of Christmastime.

Village on a hill surrounded by vineyards in Northern Italy

This Rick Steves Italy Tour Showcases Slower-Paced Culture, According To One Of His Guides

By Felix Gott 16 days ago

This Rick Steves Italy tour is for you if you prefer a slower pace and an authentic immersion in local culture rather than rushing from one place to another.

Piazza Santa Sofia on a sunny day in Benevento, Italy

This Lesser-Known City In Southern Italy Is Full Of Unique Sights And Historic Charm

By Tosh Bene 16 days ago

This beautiful city in southern Italy highlights Roman ruins, unique culinary customs, and idyllic piazzas with a fraction of the tourists you'll find in Rome.

This Popular Tourist Attraction In Venice, Italy May Not Be Worth The Price

By Tosh Bene 16 days ago

There are so many ways to spend money in Venice — on food, wine, museums, boat rides — but one of them may not be worth it, according to those in the know.

A woman hiking in the country of Georgia with mountains and a rainbow in the background

This International, Long-Distance Hiking Trail In The Caucasus Is A Spectacular Journey

By Tosh Bene 17 days ago

Trek through three countries and across two continents on this incredible hiking trail that will eventually span over 1,000 miles in length from Asia to Europe.

large bald man drinking an espresso in Amsterdam

These Common American Habits Breach Unspoken Social Etiquette In The Netherlands

By Sylvia Edwards Davis 17 days ago

Americans converse this way all the time, but in the Netherlands, if you're not careful the person you're talking to might think that you're hiding something.

Man walking into public restroom in Europe

Crucial Things Tourists Should Know Before Trying To Use A Self-Cleaning Bathroom In Europe

By Bareerah Zafar 17 days ago

Self-cleaning bathrooms can sometimes be found in Europe, but how do they work, and what should visitors to the continent know before using them?

Aerial view of the Alps near Stelvio Pass

One Of Italy's Most Dangerous Winding Roads Is Best Avoided By Insecure Drivers

By Olaoluwa Akinbayo 17 days ago

This dangerous winding road in Italy's Ortler Alps can be a hazard for experienced drivers, so those uncomfortable behind the wheel may consider a tour instead.

Is Moving To This European Country Worth It For Aspiring Expats? Here's What Reddit Thinks

By Sophie Baker 18 days ago

Some Americans are chasing a slower, happier life in this European country, but Redditors who've made the move say it’s not always as simple as it sounds.

Woman holding shopping bags walking by Eiffel Tower

Rick Steves' Advice About Shopping Etiquette Will Save You From Embarrassment In France

By Bareerah Zafar 19 days ago

Travel guru Rick Steves knows a thing or two about getting the best out of a European trip, and he has great advice to offer about shopping in France.

Inside of a bookstore with thousands of books stacked on shelves

This Enchanting European Shop Disguised As A House Hides A Treasure Trove For Bookworms

By Mitchell Peterson 21 days ago

The best bookstores are almost always the ones that aren't trying to be loud about it, and this hidden U.K. gem is as unpretentious as it gets.

This Chilling Tourist Attraction In Europe Is An Eerie Gem To Visit During Halloween

By Amanda Morgan 23 days ago

This centuries-old landmark in one of Europe’s most haunted cities comes alive with ghostly legends every Halloween season. Here's why you should visit.

A foggy trail through Hoia Baciu Forest in Romania.

The 'Bermuda Triangle Of Transylvania' Is An Eerie Attraction Shrouded In Urban Legends

By Madison Scrivano 23 days ago

Romania may be famous for vampires, but it’s also home to this creepy forest with lots of urban legends known as the Bermuda Triangle of Transylvania.