Latest news with #EuropeanBestDestinations
Forbes
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Best Summer Events 2025, Per European Best Destinations
Decorated Boats on the Grand Canal in Venice for the "Historical Regatta" which takes place each September. From the electrifying beats at Tomorrowland in Belgium and opera on the water at the Bregenz Festival, to the Velvet Dinner in Maribor and a historic sailing regatta in Venice, there's an event to suit every taste in Europe this summer. Here are ten of the best according to professional travel organization European Best Destinations. Bregenz Festival The Bregenz Festival takes place ever summer on a floating stage off the shore of Lake Constance. From a stage that seems to rise from the lake, visitors can see incredible set designs and masterpieces of opera, classical music and contemporary compositions, performed by elite orchestras and internationally renowned artists. And as if that isn't reason enough to attend, there are also spectacular fireworks and light projections. Getting There: Zurich Airport is 90 minutes by car. he ceremonial opening of the Fair St. Dominic. Fair tradition dates back 750 years and from 1260 he has been held in Gdansk." Europe's largest open-air summer festival, St Dominic's Fair transforms Gdańsk into a vibrant world of flavors and unforgettable surprises. For 765 years, this iconic fair has drawn in travelers, artists, collectors and dreamers in search of not only rare treasures, but also meaningful moments. The medieval trade tradition blends with the spirit of a modern festival offering hundreds of fair stalls and over 400 events. Concerts, dancing, street theater, chill-out zones and family workshops complement the market with antiques and handmade goods by local artisans. Getting there: Gdańsk Airport (GDN) is just 20 minutes from the city center. Tomorrowland, Belgium Tomorrowland is one of the world's biggest electronic music festivals, drawing over 400,000 fans from over 200 countries for two weekends each July. The festival's stages feature massive 3D structures, LED mega-screens and immersive storytelling themes. This year's theme is 'Orbyz' turning the festival location into a magical universe made of ice filled with mythical creatures. The festival attracts the world's best DJs like David Guetta, Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren and Eric Prydz. Expect spectacular fireworks and laser shows too. Getting there: Brussels is 30 min by car to Boom. Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Every August, Bristol's skies burst into color as hundreds of hot air balloons take flight in Europe's largest and most spectacular balloon festival. The Bristol International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta at Ashton Court Estate is a free, four-day celebration that transforms the city into a floating dreamscape, making it one of the most popular events of the year. Visitors will see mass ascents at sunrise and sunset, where dozens of balloons of all shapes and sizes lift off simultaneously, creating a panoramic spectacle in the sky. At night, the festival transforms into a mesmerizing light show, as balloons illuminate in perfect sync with music. Getting there: Bristol Airport is just 20 minutes from Ashton Court Estate. Alternatively, London Heathrow is around a 90 minute drive to Bristol. Puppets Occupy Street Festival, Craiova, Romania Art, music and theatre come together in Puppets Occupy Street Festival. For eight days, the streets, parks and squares of Craiova become a surreal open-air stage, where giant puppets parade, street performers captivate, and immersive animations and visual arts take over the city. With international artists, oversized puppet floats, interactive workshops and concerts, this free, non-competitive festival turns Craiova into a dreamlike playground for all ages. Getting there: Craiova has direct flights from London and Brussels. Velvet Dinner Maribor The Velvet Dinner is a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience that takes place in the vineyards of Maribor, Slovenia's wine capital. The elegant, open-air dinner is more than just a meal, it's an immersive celebration of local cuisine, culture and community. Guests seated at a long communal table under the open sky are treated to an exquisite menu paired with award-winning Styrian wines. The dinner is prepared and served by rising stars from local hospitality schools, adding a fresh and authentic flair to the experience. Getting there: Ljubljana Airport is 90 minutes by car or Graz Airport is 60 minutes by car. Fireworks explode as Coldplay perform on the Pyramid stage during day four of Glastonbury Festival 2024 at Worthy Farm, n Glastonbury, England. Glastonbury, the world's most legendary music festival, brings together iconic artists, emerging talent and a unique mix of arts and culture for five unforgettable days. Held on the vast fields of Worthy Farm, the festival was founded by Michael Eavis in 1970 and features around 3,000 performances across over 80 stages. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic Pyramid Stage, the festival's headliners for 2025 include The 1975, Neil Young, Rod Stewart, The Prodigy and the Ezra Collective. In addition to music the festival features immersive art installations and cabaret performances. Getting there: Bristol Airport is just 1 hour from Worthy Farm. Regata Storica', a competition between Venetian boats and gondolas sail the Grand Canal from Piazza San Marco to Rialto Bridge. Every September, the Grand Canal of Venice transforms into a breathtaking stage for the Regata Storica, one of the most historic and visually stunning water festivals in the world. Combining majestic 16th-century pageantry with thrilling gondola races, this event is a true Venetian spectacle, attracting thousands of visitors for an unforgettable display of tradition and color. The first regatta took place in 1315 and today the festival begins with the Grand Historical Parade of ornate 16th-century boats, rowed by Venetians in elaborate Renaissance costumes. Following the parade, the best rowers in Venice compete in highly competitive regattas, racing through the Grand Canal in traditional Venetian boats. Getting there: Venice Marco Polo Airport is 20 minutes from the city center. From there, take a private water taxi or a vaporetto (public boat) straight to the Grand Canal. Cattle drive in Zillertal alps, Tirol – Austria The Almabtrieb (in German 'drive from the mountain pasture') is an annual public event in the alpine regions in Europe, referring to a cattle drive that takes place in late September or early October. During summer, all over the alpine regions cattle herds feed on alpine pastures (Almen in Austria or Germany, Alpen in Switzerland) high up in the mountains. Every September, thousands of beautifully adorned cattle descend from the mountain pastures in the Cattle Drive (Almabtrieb) of Tyrol. This centuries-old tradition, celebrated with music, folk dances, and vibrant parades, marks the end of summer grazing and is one of Europe's most picturesque and authentic rural festivals. Getting there: Innsbruck Airport is 30-60 minutes from the main Tyrolean villages. Flowertime, Brussels, Belgium Every year, Brussels transforms into a paradise of flowers with Flowertime, an immersive floral exhibition outside of the Unesco-listed Brussels City Hall. Talented Belgian and international floral designers let their creativity run wild, crafting breathtaking floral installations that celebrate the year's theme (to be announced soon!). Getting there: Brussels Airport is 25 minutes from the city center.
Daily Mirror
29-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Fishing town named one of Europe's 'hidden gems' that many don't know about
Nestled between two rugged cliffs in Yorkshire above the North Sea - a nice stroll in Staithes feels like you've stumbled upon some idealised version of coastal living A delightful UK fishing village has recently been dubbed one of Europe's 'hidden gems'. In a fresh compilation by European Best Destinations, Staithes in North Yorkshire was featured alongside Pico Island in the Azores, the vibrant villages of Villajoyosa in Spain and the floating houses of Lake Bokod in Hungary as one of the continent's 18 most unique and underappreciated attractions. If you've ever had the pleasure of visiting, as I did recently, you'll certainly comprehend why. Tucked between two craggy cliffs overlooking the North Sea, a leisurely wander in Staithes feels like you've chanced upon an idyllic depiction of coastal life. I was even fortunate enough to experience a bit of picture-perfect sunshine during my brief yet memorable visit, writes the Mirror's Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas. Staithes is the very town that birthed world explorer Captain Cook, but it now boasts a range of artistic shops, inviting pubs and top-notch restaurants. One fantastic way to reach this destination is to trek a few miles along the dramatic North Yorkshire coastline from Saltburn. From this vantage point, you can gaze down at the quaint fishing cottages nestled below, before descending into the village to explore its offerings. Immediately, you'll observe a strong focus on arts and crafts in the area - a nod to its history as home to the Staithes Group, a collective of 19th-century painters attracted by the town's fishing traditions and maritime lifestyle. While modern life has evolved, the artistic vibe remains intact. In the local Staithes Gallery, I found myself captivated by contemporary artworks inspired by coastal living. The town is also peppered with quaint gift shops and subtle public art installations. Despite its compact size, Staithes is far less crowded than neighbouring Whitby and even quieter than Robin Hood's Bay, another charming fishing village just along the coast. This allowed me to leisurely stroll down to the harbourside where the Cod and Lobster pub provides an opportunity for a swift pint overlooking the beach and, reportedly, some excellent seafood. One of the town's charms is how it's bisected by the Staithes Beck river, offering a picturesque walk along the beach before ascending the steps and rounding the corner, all while remaining waterside with the cliffs in full view. There's also a climb back into the cliffs on the north side of the river, affording stunning views of the town, beach and sea. I lodged a brief car journey away in Whitby, but if you're considering an overnight stay, there's an abundance of bed and breakfasts available, some situated right next to the beach. I'd definitely recommend spending the night if possible. We have numerous charming seaside locations in Britain that perhaps we don't appreciate enough - Staithes might just be the most delightful of them all - so it's heartening to see that recognition is now coming from beyond our shores.
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Huge sandy beach with ‘magical' blue lagoon named the best in Europe
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AN extraordinary lagoon beach has been named among the most stunning and peaceful places in the Mediterranean. Port Glarokavos, on the Kassandra Peninsula in Northern Greece features is known for its bright a turquoise lagoon. 3 Port Glarokavos has its very own 'Blue Lagoon' Credit: Alamy 3 Surrounding the lagoon, are sandy beaches backed by green trees Credit: Getty And it was named the best beach in Europe according to European Best Destinations. They said: "With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Port Glarokavos is not only one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe — it's also one of the most rejuvenating." Glarokavos attracts many visitors throughout the year looking to relax and immerse themselves in the Greek lifestyle. The lagoon boasts areas with umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as areas which are left bare for those wanting more quiet and privacy. There are also many different activities that take place at the beach including kayaking, paddleboarding and wildlife watching. The beach is conveniently surrounded by camping grounds in the nearby forest. Rather uniquely, those with their car can also drive directly onto the sand. Nearby and along the coast, are a number of other beaches - all with golden sands and clear waters. On Glarokavos Beach, for example, there are even a couple of beach bars, with deck chairs and tables in the sand. One tourist wrote: "There aren't many tourists and some days you can have a great view of Mount Athos from far away." The TUI guide to Crete from best beaches to passport rules Another said: "The view of the sea is magical." A little further in land are a number of restaurants and places to stay including the family-friendly Xenios Port Marina. The resort is in the village of Pefkohori and offers both all-inclusive and half-board. In Pefkohori, there are a number of pretty streets to explore with whitewashed houses, with citrus and olive groves littered between the buildings. In the summer, popular activities include snorkelling, parasailing, sunset watching and shopping for craft souvenirs. To get to the lagoon from the UK, the best option is to fly to Thessaloniki International Airport and then drive to Port Glarokavos, which takes around an hour. Also in Greece is a pretty European 'floating village' with quiet beaches and a picturesque port. Plus, one of the cheapest Greek islands is set to be popular, as TUI adds more hotels.
The Sun
25-05-2025
- The Sun
Huge sandy beach with ‘magical' blue lagoon named the best in Europe
AN extraordinary lagoon beach has been named among the most stunning and peaceful places in the Mediterranean. Port Glarokavos, on the Kassandra Peninsula in Northern Greece features is known for its bright a turquoise lagoon. 3 3 And it was named the best beach in Europe according to European Best Destinations. They said: "With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Port Glarokavos is not only one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe — it's also one of the most rejuvenating." Glarokavos attracts many visitors throughout the year looking to relax and immerse themselves in the Greek lifestyle. The lagoon boasts areas with umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as areas which are left bare for those wanting more quiet and privacy. There are also many different activities that take place at the beach including kayaking, paddleboarding and wildlife watching. The beach is conveniently surrounded by camping grounds in the nearby forest. Rather uniquely, those with their car can also drive directly onto the sand. Nearby and along the coast, are a number of other beaches - all with golden sands and clear waters. On Glarokavos Beach, for example, there are even a couple of beach bars, with deck chairs and tables in the sand. One tourist wrote: "There aren't many tourists and some days you can have a great view of Mount Athos from far away." The TUI guide to Crete from best beaches to passport rules Another said: "The view of the sea is magical." A little further in land are a number of restaurants and places to stay including the family-friendly Xenios Port Marina. The resort is in the village of Pefkohori and offers both all-inclusive and half-board. In Pefkohori, there are a number of pretty streets to explore with whitewashed houses, with citrus and olive groves littered between the buildings. In the summer, popular activities include snorkelling, parasailing, sunset watching and shopping for craft souvenirs. To get to the lagoon from the UK, the best option is to fly to Thessaloniki International Airport and then drive to Port Glarokavos, which takes around an hour. Also in Greece is a pretty European 'floating village' with quiet beaches and a picturesque port. Plus, one of the cheapest Greek islands is set to be popular, as TUI adds more hotels. 3
Forbes
21-05-2025
- Forbes
The 10 Best Hidden Places In Europe For 2025
Colorful houses in the town of Bosa, founded in 1112 along the Temo River on the west coast of the Italian island of Sardinia One in a small hill in the west coast of Sardinia, the other located on Lake Como, Bosa and Nesso are two 'secret' picturesque Italian villages that are at the top of the list of places in Europe ranked as 'Best Hidden Gems' by European Best Destinations. In a year when the best-known destinations of Europe brace for another season of massive overtourism, the new list offers a 'slower', more soulful kind of travel with unspoiled alternatives away from the typical tourist trails (and travails). 'With picturesque villages, gorgeous hill towns, seaside resorts, medieval hamlets among vineyards and lakes, Europe abounds with 'secret' destinations for those looking to be away from the crowds,' says EBD. 'While Europe's most iconic cities attract millions each year, the continent's true magic often lies far from the crowds. Tucked between mountains, along forgotten coastlines, and nestled in valleys untouched by time, these destinations offer something rare: authenticity.' The new ranking is an invitation to wander from the pastel-hued streets of Bosa in Sardinia to the thermal bliss of Saturnia's natural springs in Tuscany and from the timeless beauty of Halki, a car-free Greek island where life moves to the rhythm of the sea, to the rose-colored alleys of Albarracín in Spain. The EBD's list, based on votes by more than one million travelers from 172 countries encourages you to embark on a journey 'to these lesser-known locales and discover the diverse and captivating experiences that await beyond Europe's well-trodden paths.' The access to some of them is not always as easy as going to Paris, for example, but it's precisely their remoteness that has preserved them — raw, real, and waiting to be explored. Am aerial view of Bosa town on Sardinia island, Italy, with the Ponte Vecchio bridge crossing the Temo river Renowned for its colorful houses and the medieval Malaspina Castle, Bosa is situated about two-thirds of the way up the west coast of Sardinia, on a small hill about three kilometers inland on the north bank of the Temo River. 'Stroll through the historic center, explore the castle, and relax on the nearby Bosa Marina beach,' EBD recommends. Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Sardinian dishes like "porceddu" (roast suckling pig) and "seadas" (cheese-filled pastries drizzled with honey). Don't miss a glass of the local wine, Malvasia di Bosa. How to get there: Book flights to Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO). From there, Bosa is approximately a one-hour drive of about 55 kilometers via SP49 and SP105. Aerial view of Nesso, a picturesque village sitting on the banks of Lake Como, Italy The picturesque village of Nesso, located on Lake Como, is famous for being split in half — literally — by its natural gorge and waterfall, the "Orrido di Nesso." On the western branch of Lake Como, it's known for its authentic charm and historic stone-paved alleys. The ancient Roman bridge, Ponte della Civera, offers stunning views. Local Cuisine: Enjoy lake fish specialties including 'missoltini' (sun-dried shad) and 'risotto al pesce persico' (risotto with perch). How to get there: Book flights to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). Nesso is about a 90-minute drive (75 kilometersm) via the A9 and SP583 roads. Volcanic crater Caldeirao in Corvo Island near Flores, Azores, Portugal The volcanic solitude of Corvo Island, the smallest of the Azores islands, is an invitation to peace and reflection. The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, are an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic composed of nine major islands and an islet cluster, including Corvo. The islands are characterized by dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, green pastures and hedgerows of blue hydrangeas. Corvo boasts the stunning Caldeirão, a large volcanic crater with lakes and islets. The island's only village, Vila do Corvo, offers a glimpse into traditional Azorean life. Local Cuisine: Try 'caldo de peixe' (fish soup) and 'biscoitos de orelha' (traditional biscuits). How to get there: Book flights to João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island. From there, take a regional flight to Corvo Airport (CVU). The island is small, and most attractions are accessible on foot or by local transport. The Medieval terracotte Village of Albarracin In Aragon, Spain Often cited as one of Spain's most beautiful villages, Albarracín is located in the hills of east-central Spain, above a curve of the Guadalaviar River. Towering medieval walls, the Murallas de Albarracín, dominate the adjacent hillside. The ruins of an alcázar, or Moorish castle, rise on a clifftop in the old town. The 16th-century Catedral del Salvador features a bell tower built on the remains of a Romanesque temple and surrounded by narrow, winding streets, pink-hued buildings and ancient city walls. Local Cuisine: Delight in 'ternasco' (roast lamb) and 'migas' (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo and garlic). How to get there: Book flights to Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). Albarracín is approximately a three-hour, 280-kilometer drive via the A-2 and A-23 highways. Small village Blagaj on Buna with its spring and waterfall in Bosnia and Herzegovina Blagaj is an historic village and protected heritage site in Bosnia and Herzegovina, nestled amid the southeastern region of the Mostar basin in the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton. Blagaj is home to one of the 'Best Kept Secret Places in Europe', the Blagaj Tekija, a 16th-century Dervish monastery perched dramatically by a turquoise spring of the Buna River. The serene setting is perfect for contemplation (and photography). Local Cuisine: Enjoy 'čevapi' (grilled minced meat) and 'burek' (meat-filled pastry). How to get there: Book flights to Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ). Blagaj is about a two-hour drive (130 kilometers) via the M17 highway. The medieval Catalan village of Rupit in the subregion of the Collsacabra, Spain Rupit is a charming medieval village in Catalonia that evokes the essence of medieval Europe with its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and the iconic hanging wooden bridge over the Rupit River. Explore the Church of Sant Miquel, dating back to the 12th century, and hike to the nearby Salt de Sallent waterfall for breathtaking views. Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Catalan dishes such as 'escudella' (meat and vegetable stew) and 'butifarra' (Catalan sausage). How to get there: Book your flights to Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). Rupit is approximately a 90-minute drive. Colorful houses and fishing boats in the charming small Greek island of Halki (Chalki) Halki is a small, rustic, hilly island in the Dodecanese, just six kilometers west of Rhodes and known for its crystal-clear waters and neoclassical architecture. It's admired for its secluded beaches, including Kania and Potamos, some only accessible on foot. Ferries arrive from Rhodes Town and Piraeus at the port in charming Nimborio, which has seafront tavernas and open-air bars, plus upscale vacation villas. Hiking trails lead past whitewashed chapels such as the Church of Agios Nikolaos, with its impressive bell tower, the Castle of the Knights of St. John and the abandoned village of Chorio. Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like grilled octopus and 'astakomakaronada' (lobster with pasta). How to get there: Book flights to Rhodes International Airport (RHO). From there, take a ferry from Kamiros Skala port to Halki, which takes about an hour. Colorful harbor houses and boats in Tenby, Wales Tenby is a postcard-perfect harbor town in southwest Wales, known for its medieval, 13th-century walls, pastel-colored houses, beautiful beaches and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Its stretches of sandy shoreline include Castle Beach with the ruins of Tenby Castle on a headland overlooking the harbor. Explore the Tudor Merchant's House and take a boat trip to Caldey Island. Local Cuisine: Try Welsh specialties like 'cawl' (lamb stew) and 'bara brith' (fruit loaf). How to get there: Book flights to Cardiff Airport (CWL). Tenby is approximately a two-hour, 150-kilometer drive via the M4 and A48 roads. Aerial view taken of natural spa of Saturnia during a sunny autumn day in Tuscany Saturnia, one of the Best Hidden Gems in Italy, is a spa town in Tuscany in north-central Italy that has been inhabited since ancient times. Famous for its natural hot springs, particularly the Cascate del Mulino, the thermal waters cascade over limestone terraces. During your stay, visit the medieval town center and the nearby archaeological sites. Local Cuisine: Enjoy Tuscan dishes like 'pici' (thick, hand-rolled pasta) and 'acquacotta' (vegetable soup). How to get there: Book flights to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Saturnia is approximately a two-hour drive (150 kilometers) via the A12 and SS1 roads. The picture-perfect village of Vik in southern Iceland, fields of lupins in bloom around the town church Vik is a small village on Iceland's south coast known for its black sand beaches, particularly Reynisfjara, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. With its dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches 'Vik reminds us that sometimes, the edge of the world is the beginning of something extraordinary,' notes EBD. Visit the Vik Myrdal Church perched on a hill and explore the nearby Dyrhólaey promontory for panoramic views. Local Cuisine: Try Icelandic specialties like 'plokkfiskur' (fish stew) and 'skyr' (dairy product). How to get there: Book flights to Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Vik is approximately a 2 1/2-hour, 180-kilometer drive via Route 1. For your first stop, try here for all the best places in Europe to visit.
