Reasons to visit Europe this summer

Europe is a diverse continent packed full of fascinating cities and spectacular scenic wonders. From sun-soaked beaches to ancient archaeological sites, it really does have it all. Here are just some of the reasons why you should visit this summer.

1. It's a walker’s paradise

Nothing beats that feeling of getting out in the great outdoors and exploring the world on foot, and in Europe, there are so many wonderful walks to choose from.

Join our ‘Walking in Tuscany’ holiday, and you’ll explore the rolling countryside of Tuscany, with its pretty vineyards and olive groves. Another option is our ‘Mallorca – A Walker’s Paradise’ holiday, which includes a walk along the Painter’s Way for views of dramatic coastal landscapes. If you join our ‘Walking the Camino de Santiago’ holiday, you’ll pass through charming towns and villages as you follow an ancient pilgrimage route in northern Spain, or how about breathing in fresh mountain air in Switzerland. On our ‘Walking in the Swiss Alps’ holiday you’ll can take in panoramic views as you walk through beautiful Alpine scenery and ride cable cars to lofty peaks.

2. History is all around

Europe is a continent packed full of fascinating history. From the mighty Colosseum in Rome, to the site of the original Olympic Games in Athens, there really is something to interest everyone.

On our ‘Historical Malta - Palaces, Folklore & World War II’ holiday, you can board a vintage bus for a tour which takes in Mdina, the ancient capital, and Mosta. During the Second World War, a bomb fell through the roof of a church here but miraculously failed to explode.

If you fancy heading east to Russia, you can learn about the history of this great country as you explore the iconic sights of Moscow and the Kremlin. On our ‘Moscow & St Petersburg – Tolstoy’s War & Peace’ holiday, you’ll also visit the Fabergé Museum and learn about the beautifully ornate eggs created for the Russian Imperial family in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Step back in time and discover a wealth of historical treasures on our ‘The Royal Kingdom of Greek Macedonia’ holiday. Explore Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city, and visit the archaeological site of Pella where Alexander the Great was born.

3. You'll enjoy delicious food & wine

From Spanish tapas to mozzarella-covered pizzas, there are so many ways to treat your taste buds in Europe.

On our ‘Flavours of Mallorca’ holiday, you’ll visit the island’s oldest winery for a tasting, and sample freshly squeezed juice at a citrus farm. You’ll also taste locally produced extra virgin olive oil and enjoy a traditional ‘pa amb oli’ lunch of roasted bread, olive oil, tomato, ham and cheese.

For an unforgettable taste of ​Italian cuisine, our ‘Wonders of Rome & Tuscany’ tour includes a private cookery class at a 12th century castle. You’ll learn how to prepare an amazing array of traditional Tuscan dishes which you’ll then enjoy for lunch. Later in the holiday, you’ll tour the Torre a Cona wine estate and enjoy a tasting of four different wines.

5. Explore idyllic islands

If you’re the type of person who likes to get away from it all on holiday, escaping to a European island might be your idea of paradise.

Croatia’s stunning coastline is washed by crystal-clear waters, and hundreds of islands are scattered along its shores. Boasting everything from uninhabited atolls to nature reserves and fashionable resorts, a relaxing cruise is the perfect way to discover their beauty. On our Croatian Island Explorer holiday, you’ll discover the delights of Hvar and Brac, and step ashore on the mainland to explore the delights of Split and Zadar.

Where will you go? With so many solo guided holidays to Europe you'll be spoilt for choice.