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Although every town and city in Europe has its own unique personality,
check out these five cities, which give you a true cross-section of what Europe has to offer. Each city mentioned is the perfect introduction to the countries in which they reside.
VENICE, ITALY
You can’t leave Europe without experiencing Venice, even if just for a few days. Strolling the streets of this Italian city will make you feel like you have stepped back in time or are walking through the set of a film. The narrow streets and canals are mesmerizing, and after sipping an Italian cappuccino, you’ll wonder how you ever survived without them. Venice is a city to stroll through, so don’t try to hurry along in an attempt to see everything. Take your time, get a little lost and fall in love with this famous city by the sea.
PARIS, FRANCE
There are few people who don’t long to wander through the streets of Paris at some point in their lives. Books and movies have long painted a romantic picture of this city, and it doesn’t disappoint. There is something for everyone in Paris, whether your goal is to see the Eiffel Tower, peruse the many world famous museums and art galleries, do a little shopping, or taste the food that the world raves about. Paris will welcome you with open arms.
Don’t be afraid to take the Metro (subway) and blend in by dressing like a local. Paris isn’t known as the world’s fashion capital by accident — leave your worn jeans at home, dress to impress and enjoy being a Parisian for a couple of days!
AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
Although this city has had a less than glamorous reputation in the past, there is much more to Amsterdam than the seedy nightlife it’s known for. The Jordaan District of the city is full of up and coming restaurants, stores and the Anne Frank House, as well as a ton of art galleries and museums. With more canals than Venice and more bikes than people, Amsterdam is a wonder to explore on two feet or two wheels.
Once you’ve arrived, park your car and head to the main station to get a day pass for the public transport system or to rent a bike. Find a good map, and let yourself get a little lost, as you can always ask for directions or take a taxi back to your hotel.
Amsterdam is sure to enchant you with it’s combination of cutting edge architecture, rich history, laid back lifestyle, great food and friendly people.
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
This Czech city is driving distance from many U.S. Army and Air Force bases here in Germany and with a little planning can be a much more affordable trip than to Paris or Venice, without sacrificing the historical architecture, wonderful restaurants and conveniences of its more well-travelled counterparts. Prague has all the beauty of Paris, but in a more casual and laid back package. The pace here is less hurried and it’s the perfect place to wander through a modern art gallery, do a little shopping or experience the nightlife.
If you are driving to Prague from Germany, be sure to stop at ADAC (or just before the border) to purchase a registration sticker. The stickers are normally less than €20 and are similar to a toll, allowing you to use the Czech highways as a tourist. Czech police are famous for searching out cars at rest stops and gas stations near the highway, and the tickets they give cost far more than the original toll price, so don’t try your luck. Also, don’t forget your passport!
