(Updated 1/2023)
Europe is a captivating continent, steeped in history and culture, and renowned for its stunning natural beauty. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the sun-soaked beaches of the Mediterranean and the cool lakes of Finland, Europe offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a foodie, or an adrenaline junkie, there’s a European destination that will suit your interests and desires. In this travel guide, I will explore some of the most popular and lesser-known destinations in Europe, providing you with information on what to see, do, and eat in each place. Get ready to pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe!
You can find posts with my photos and videos and traveltips to Europe from the links below. Welcome to read INDIVUE – Trip to Europe!
EUROPEAN CITIES AND SIGHTS
Some of the world’s most vibrant and historic capital cities can be found in Europe. Each capital offers a unique blend of culture, history, architecture, and entertainment, making them popular destinations for both tourists and locals alike. Here are a few of the most famous European capitals:
- Paris, France – Known as the City of Love, Paris is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. It’s also renowned for its fashion, cuisine, and café culture.
- London, England – A hub of business and culture, London is home to some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries, as well as historic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.
- Berlin, Germany – Once divided by the Berlin Wall, today Berlin is a thriving city with a rich cultural scene and a fascinating history. Visitors can explore the remnants of the wall, visit the Brandenburg Gate, and sample the city’s vibrant nightlife.
- Madrid, Spain – Madrid is the capital of Spain and is known for its rich history, art, and culture. Visitors can explore its many museums, including the Prado Museum, and sample the local cuisine in its many taverns and bars.
- Rome, Italy – The Eternal City, Rome, is famous for its ancient ruins, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. It’s also known for its Vatican City, home to the Pope and the stunning St. Peter’s Basilica.
These are just a few of the many captivating capital cities in Europe, each with its own unique personality and charm. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a city break, Europe’s capitals have something for everyone. Read more about European capitals and other cities and sights next –
AMSTERDAM
Amsterdam is one of the most amazing cities in Europe and the capital and most-populous city of the Netherlands. Whether you’re going there to visit, live or just sightseeing, you will find a lot to see and do there. This city of 900,000 is not only iconic for its canals but also for the picturesque houses along them, exciting festivals and much more. The city houses a large number of historic buildings and important works of art. As Amsterdam has a lot to offer to tourists and travelers I wanted to share some of its best sights with you!
- Amsterdam in 1 minute
- Film trip to Amsterdam and Netherlands
- Hotel: Hotel experience from Amsterdam
- (video) Queue for Van Gogh -museum in Amsterdam
- (video) On the road in Amsterdam
- Restaurant: Good Indian restaurant in Amsterdam
BARCELONA
Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia and the second largest city in Spain. It is a sophisticated, modern metropolis with a rich heritage that has helped make it the vibrant city it is today. The beautiful Gothic Quarter is filled with shops and restaurants, and many of Barcelona’s most famous landmarks such as La Rambla are within close reach. With so much to see and do, Barcelona makes also a great base from which to explore the rest of Catalonia’s famous beaches, mountains and vineyards. It is an amazing city to visit. You can enjoy the beaches, cultural sites and leisure activities. Read and see more traveling in Barcelona here –
- Restaurant: Good Indian restaurant in Barcelona
- (video) Flight from Barcelona to Helsinki
- (video) Flight to Barcelona
- (video) Sunny October in Barcelona
- (video) View from Park Guell, Barcelona
BERLIN
Berlin is the capital of Germany and a major European city. It has a vibrant cultural life, excellent public transportation and a remarkably rich history. Berlin is a beautiful city and I recommend you to explore all that Berlin has to offer from the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag to Museum Island, the Tiergarten, and Alexanderplatz. If you are looking for the ultimate European city break, Berlin is a place not to be missed. Its museums and galleries, incredible architecture and some of Europe’s best restaurants are just a few of the reasons why I have visited Berlin more than once. Read and see more about Berlin here –
- Berlin triptips and travel experiences
- Berlin zoo
- Best of Berlin sights
- Flight from Helsinki to Berlin
- (video) Flight from Germany to Finland
- Hotel: Hotel experiences from Berlin
- People and street life of Berlin
- (video) Restaurant: Bombay Spice
COPENHAGEN
Visiting Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, gives you an experience of the Scandinavian lifestyle and culture while taking in some of the best sights, activities and cuisine Denmark has to offer. In a city that is full of interesting architecture, jaw-dropping museums and galleries and incredible street food and sandwiches, you’ll love discovering Copenhagen like a local. Immerse yourself in nature and architecture at the striking Tivoli Gardens, visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, or explore the city by canal cruise and you will love this dynamic and safe city known for its many opportunities and hygge. Learn more about this vibrant Danish city in my blog –
GDANSK
Gdansk is a beautiful city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland. It is known for its beaches as well as rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s just roaming around and admiring the architecture and shops selling amber jewelry, you will find yourself immersed in a colourful history. Gdansk is located on the Baltic coast, conveniently only a couple of hours drive from Berlin and Warsaw. The old city center of Gdansk and its streets lined with colorful houses provide a nice seaside promenade. Read and see what else can be found from Gdansk –
HELSINKI
Helsinki is the capital of Finland and one of the world’s northernmost capitals. It is a compact city with a good public transport, clean streets, plenty of green parks and safe surroundings. It is also home to museums and galleries that showcase a rich artistic heritage. Helsinki being the largest city of Finland, it is situated on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, in the region of Uusimaa in southern Finland, on the shoreline of the Baltic Sea. As that it is a great gateway to exploring Scandinavia, as this city combines a grand old architecture with modern design and a lively music scene with both heavy metal and jazz. Whatever your interests are, you’re sure to find something that suits you. You can reach Helsinki by air, by the sea and by the road, and as an inspiring detail it should be mentioned that the train to Korvatunturi, Santa’s residence in Lapland, leaves from the train station right from the center of Helsinki. Read more about things to see and experience in Helsinki here –
HELSINKI CAFES
- Café: Green tea in the centre of Helsinki
- Café: Scenic seaview café in the Helsinki centre
- Café: Nice seaview café in West Helsinki
- Café: Stylish cafe in Kämp Galleria
HELSINKI RESTAURANTS
- Restaurant: Good Indian restaurant in Helsinki
HELSINKI SIGHTS
- Amos Rex art museum
- Beaches of Vuosaari
- Oodi-library
- Summertime in Helsinki centre
- Suomenlinna island
- (video) The most beautiful neighbourhood in Finland in 2017
- Winter and walk on the Helsinki sea
HELSINKI TRAFFIC
- (video) Flying from Delhi to Helsinki
- Helsinki metrostations
- (video) Landing in Helsinki
- Ship: M/S Finlandia from Tallinn to Helsinki
- Ship: M/S Star from Helsinki to Tallinn
- (video) Take-off from Helsinki-Vantaa airport
- Ship: The Viking Express -ship from Helsinki to Tallinn
MARIEHAMN
Mariehamn is the capital of Åland Islands, an autonomous region of Finland. It is a small, charming and peaceful town, and perfect for a relaxed holiday. Traveling to Mariehamn is convenient as it has a ferry service from Sweden and Finland. Once you arrive, you can explore the town on foot as it is small and compact. One can also take a bike ride around the islands, visit the beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Botanical Garden, or simply relax on the sandy beaches. The Åland Archipelago has over 6,000 islands, making it a great destination for island-hopping and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Mariehamn itself is a great destination for a peaceful holiday surrounded by stunning nature, and perfect for those who love outdoor activities. It is a tourist destination that offers also a range of dining options about which you can read more in this guide –
OSLO
Oslo is the capital city of Norway and is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. One of the most popular attractions in Oslo is the Vigeland Sculpture Park, featuring over 200 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures. The park is set amidst lush greenery and provides a peaceful and idyllic setting for visitors to relax and take in the stunning artwork. For those interested in history, the Akershus Fortress is a must-visit. This medieval castle, built in the 1300s, provides an insight into Norway’s rich military history and offers breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant street life and bustling cafes of the city center. Read and see more from my visual guide to Oslo –
- Best sights in Oslo
- (video) First time in Oslo
- (video) Landing in Oslo
- (video) Take off from Oslo airport
- Travelling to and from Oslo
PARIS
Paris is a top destination for traveling and sightseeing. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the shops along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris has something nice to offer for everyone. Whether you’re traveling alone, with your significant other or with friends and family, Paris will not disappoint you! Being the capital of France, it is home to some of the most renowned art in the world with some of Paris’s main attractions being The Louvre and Centre Georges Pompidou. On top of offering an abundance of cultural experiences, Paris also provides its travelers with remarkable culinary delights that no other city can compete with. Read more and see my videos here –
- Best sights of Paris
- (video) Eiffel tower in the night
- Paris in 1 minute
- The best sights, hotels and restaurants in Paris
- Tribute to Notre Dame
- Trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower
PRAGUE
Travelers visiting Prague can take in various museums to learn more about the city’s history as well as discover Prague’s famous castles and find plenty of opportunities to experience a range of distinctive cuisine. Prague has many dining options that offer hearty Czech cuisine as well as international options. The city will captivate any visitor, offering amazing sightseeing opportunities as you wander through narrow cobblestone streets over Prague’s most famous bridges. Prague also offers plenty of diversity in its accommodations from luxury resorts to cozy hostels, creating an atmosphere bound to evoke a feeling of adventure around every corner regardless of budget. Check my restaurant and sight recommendations for Prague here –
RIGA
Riga is a beautiful Latvian city that has something to offer for everyone – visitors can explore churches, world heritage sites and an abundance of museums before taking a break at one of Riga’s vibrant markets or boutiques. Riga is not only well-known for its fantastic sightseeing but also for its impressive architecture. It also boasts diverse cafes serving traditional local cuisine that must be experienced on any trip there – check my café recommendations for Riga and other travel tips –
- Best hidden cafés in Riga
- (video) First time in Riga, Latvia
- (video) Hotel: Hotel experience in Riga
- Flight from Helsinki to Riga
ROME
Rome is a city of grandeur, history and beauty. It is and ideal travel destination because it provides the best of both relaxation and sightseeing. Visitors to Rome will get the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of ancient Rome or take a leisurely stroll through Rome’s vibrant piazzas. Rome also offers plenty of iconic sights like The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and the Spanish Steps. Some may even decide to take advantage of Rome’s convenient location by planning day trips to nearby picturesque towns. From indulging in delicious Italian cuisine to shopping in chic boutiques, Rome has something for everyone making it a perfect destination for travelers from all over the globe! Here’s what I experienced –
- (video) First time in Rome, Italy
- (video) Flight from Helsinki to Rome
- Rome live exhibition
- Those lovely Roman sights
- View from Castle Sant’Angelo
STOCKHOLM
Stockholm is a popular travel destination for many, offering a variety of interesting sights. From Stockholm’s diverse cultural centers and picturesque parks to the Royal Court and Stockholm Palace, Stockholm beckons visitors to experience its captivating beauty. A range of cultural activities can be found, such as visiting the Nobel Museum or sampling some traditional Swedish cuisine. The capital of Sweden offers also intriguing shops and galleries, and tourists will find something to please every traveler with its unique atmosphere that is nearly impossible to duplicate. So if you’re looking for European charm with modern vibrancy, Stockholm has something for everyone in the family to enjoy, like several art galleries, museums, vibrant nightlife hotspots, shopping centers and lush parks. Read more and see my videos from Stockholm below!
STOCKHOLM RESTAURANTS
- (video) Restaurant: Bon Vivant at Silja Serenade
- Restaurant: Good Indian restaurants in Stockholm
- (video) Restaurant: Indian restaurant Saravanaa Bhavan
- (video) Restaurant: Sushi Co. restaurant at Silja Symphony
- (video) Restaurant: Villa Godthem
STOCKHOLM SIGHTS
STOCKHOLM TRAFFIC
- Helsinki – Stockholm – Helsinki -cruise
(Video with subtitles in English, Finnish and Swedish)
TALLINN
Tallinn is a breath-taking travel destination on the Baltic Sea. Its old town is a maze of cobbled streets, winding alleys and grand medieval buildings that are well preserved. Tallinn’s many historical sights include churches, mansions and public squares that each have unique stories to tell of Tallinn’s past. Tallinn also offers visitors amazing shopping opportunities in its bustling open-air markets, modern malls and chic boutiques. Add to that Tallinn’s plethora of traditional restaurants, galleries and cafés and you have one of the most lovely travel destinations in Europe. See and read more about Tallinn cafés, hotels, restaurants and sights in my visual travel guide!
TALLINN CAFES AND RESTAURANTS
- Café: Nice cafés in Tallinn
- (video) Restaurant: City Grill House
- (video) Restaurant: Indian restaurant Banana Leaf
- (video) Restaurant: M/S Megastar Business Lounge
- (video) Restaurant: M/S Star Business Lounge
- (video) Restaurant: Ristorante Flavore
TALLINN HOTELS
TALLINN TRAFFIC
- Ship M/S Finlandia from Tallinn to Helsinki
- Ship M/S Star from Helsinki to Tallinn
- Ship The Viking XPRS from Helsinki to Tallinn
SIGHTS IN ESTONIA
VATICAN
Vatican City is a truly incredible travel destination as it boasts some of the world’s most famous sights. There is no shortage of spectacular sites to explore and appreciate, whether it’s standing in awe at the Vatican chapels, admiring Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, or marveling at St. Peter’s Basilica and its ornate sculptures. Vatican City being the spiritual capital of the world has something for most type of travelers with its fascinating cultural and religious history, and it should definitely be included on any traveler’s itinerary when in Rome. See my long video from Vatican City –
VIENNA
From Vienna’s majestic city center, to its charming districts, there are so many delightful sights to explore in the capital of Austria. From classic grand architecture and imperial sights such as the Vienna State Opera and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to innovative modern galleries and museums like the Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna has an abundance of attractions ranging from baroque palaces and beautiful gardens to Vienna’s traditional coffee houses. Do experience Vienna’s unique coffee house culture by sitting in one of Vienna’s many traditional venues surrounded by generations of Austrians. Take a stroll around Vienna’s old town and explore Vienna’s unique past and vibrant present, or explore the city with local gastronomic delights or nature-lover walks in one of Vienna’s many riverside parks. On top of all this, Vienna is also home to music festivals! With so much to see, do and experience, Vienna is an ideal travel destination for a truly unforgettable holiday, definitely worth exploring. Read and see more about Vienna in my visual travel guide –
- Café: Kleines Café
- (video) Restaurant: Indian restaurant in Vienna
- (shorts video) Taste memories of Vienna
European countries and their capitals
Europe is a continent located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere and mostly in the Eastern Hemisphere. It is bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. Europe is home to 45 countries, each with its own unique history, culture, and capital city.
Here below is a list of all the European countries and their capitals. Links with capital letters will give you more information about the city or country.
| AMSTERDAM | Netherlands |
| Andorra la Vella | Andorra |
| Ankara | Turkey |
| Athens | Greece |
| Belgrade | Serbia |
| BERLIN | Germany |
| Bern | Switzerland |
| Bratislava | Slovakia |
| Brussels | Belgium |
| Bucharest | Romania |
| Budapest | Hungary |
| Chisinau | Moldova |
| COPENHAGEN | Denmark |
| Dublin | Ireland |
| HELSINKI | Finland |
| Kiev | Ukraine |
| Lisbon | Portugal |
| Ljubljana | Slovenia |
| London | United Kingdom |
| Luxembourg City | |
| Madrid | Spain |
| Minsk | Belarus |
| Monaco | |
| Moscow | Russia |
| Nicosia | Cyprus |
| Nuuk | Greenland |
| OSLO | Norway |
| PARIS | France |
| Podgorica | Montenegro |
| PRAGUE | Czech Republic |
| Pristina | Kosovo |
| Reykjavík | Iceland |
| RIGA | Latvia |
| ROME | Italy |
| San Marino | |
| Sarajevo | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| Skopje | Macedonia |
| Sofia | Bulgaria |
| STOCKHOLM | Sweden |
| TALLINN | Estonia |
| Tirana | Albania |
| Vaduz | Liechtenstein |
| Valletta | Malta |
| VIENNA | Austria |
| Vilnius | Lithuania |
| Warsaw | Poland |
| Zagreb | Croatia |
Members of the European Union
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 European countries located primarily in Europe. The EU was established with the aim of promoting peace, stability, and economic cooperation among its member states. The EU operates through a system of supranational institutions and intergovernmental negotiated decisions by the member states.
These following countries are the members of the European Union (1/2023). It means that these countries have ceded some of their sovereignty to the EU in exchange for the benefits of increased cooperation, trade, and security. The EU works to create a single market for goods and services and provides a platform for its members to make decisions on a range of issues, from environmental policy to foreign affairs. If a euro sign is mentioned, it means the country uses the euro currency. Common euro currency makes traveling in these countries a lot easier. The list has been updated in 1/2023.
| EURO CURRENCY | OTHER CURRENCY |
| Austria € | Bulgaria |
| Belgium € | Croatia |
| Cyprus € | Czech Republic |
| Estonia € | Denmark |
| Finland € | Poland |
| France € | Romania |
| Germany € | Sweden |
| Greece € | |
| Hungary € | |
| Ireland € | |
| Italy € | |
| Latvia € | |
| Lithuania € | |
| Luxembourg € | |
| Malta € | |
| Netherlands € | |
| Portugal € | |
| Slovakia € | |
| Slovenia € | |
| Spain € |
Misc Europe
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INDIVUE – Trip to Europe
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