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5 dreamy European destinations to add to your spring and summer travel bucket list
Evening view of the old town of Varenna on Lake Como.
Europe has long been a popular vacation destination for Americans. More Americans traveled abroad in 2023 than in 2019, before the pandemic. Of the more than 20 million Americans who have traveled abroad, most have flown to Europe. Inspired by the movie, many tourists take romantic trips to the cobblestone streets of European cities to visit quaint cafes, explore rich history, and admire stunning works of art. I'm dreaming of
But more Americans are stepping out of their comfort zones to places not often seen on movie screens. These travelers want to experience new destinations off the beaten path of crowded Rome streets and Parisian cafes, but still enjoy reliable flights, public transportation, fast Wi-Fi, and luxury It is located close enough to comfortable surroundings such as accommodation.
Kontiki looked at data from U.S. News and World Report's ranking of Europe's best vacations and highlighted some of the regions on the list that are less visited by Americans. While the usual suspects like Rome, Paris, London and Amsterdam are at the top of the list, several new hotspots are emerging on Americans' travel radars.
Home to Michelin-starred restaurants, World Heritage Sites, ancient ruins, volcano tours, and more, these destinations are popular for good reason.
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budapest, hungary
Bright sunset over famous landmarks of Budapest.
Straddling the Danube River lies Hungary's prosperous capital, Budapest. With so many historic buildings, spas and hot springs, a vibrant nightlife, and hearty traditional cuisine, it's no wonder this ancient city is attracting new attention. May and June are the best months to travel, just before the heat of summer causes temperatures to rise into the 80s and 90s.
First, relax after a long flight at one of Budapest's most famous attractions, a public thermal spa bath in Széchenyi located in a city park. However, arrive early to avoid the crowds. Step back in time through the enchanting medieval quarter of Castle Hill. Buda Castle is home to the Hungarian National Museum, and the Fisherman's Bastion, a neo-Gothic terrace, offers one of the best panoramic views of the city overlooking the river. Make time to stop by the Great Market Hall, the country's oldest indoor market, and try langos, a type of fried pizza. If you want to be a little more indulgent in flavor, add sour cream and cheese on top.
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seville, spain
View of boats on the canal of Plaza de Espana in Seville.
Seville is the capital of the autonomous region of Andalusia in southwestern Spain. Known for its lively spring festival season, Seville hums with Spanish guitars, flamenco music and popping bottles of Fino dry sherry from March to April. Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (Spring Fair) are held during this period, which increases hotel prices, so plan accordingly.
No matter when you visit, take time to explore Santa Cruz's Arts District. Discover the city's fascinating history through a labyrinth of narrow alleys, hidden squares and colorful buildings. You can also tour his 16th-century Seville Cathedral, the world's largest Gothic church and the final resting place of Christopher Columbus, with its 80 chapels and floor-to-ceiling artwork.
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cyprus
View of the new port of Kyrenia (Girne) in Northern Cyprus.
The island of Cyprus, located in the Mediterranean Sea south of Turkey, is steeped in history. Of course, Cyprus can be visited all year round, but if you want to avoid the summer heat and crowded beaches, it is best to avoid traveling in July and August and visit in May or June.
A must-see is Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It contains prehistoric and ancient Roman ruins, consisting of an impressive amphitheater, temples, and vivid floor mosaics depicting Greek mythology. Entrance tickets to these attractions cost just a few euros.
When it's time to soak up the sun, there are 77 Blue Flag beaches to choose from. Enjoy some peaceful sunbathing with Wi-Fi at Konos Bay, or enjoy DJ sets and lively beach parties at Nissi Beach.
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Lake Como, Italy
Varenna village on Lake Como.
Lake Como is located at the foot of the Italian Alps and offers natural beauty, historic villas, and of course great food and wine. The best way to explore Lake Como is by boat. You can also rent it or experience it on a guided tour. Cruise the lake with a glass of local Lombardy wine in hand and enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps and other towns dotted around the lake.
It would be a shame not to try Como's signature risotto con filetti di pesce persico made with lake sea bass at Ristorante Sociale. You can also take the Bernina Express from Lake Como to Milan or St. Moritz and explore the beautiful Alps.
While spring undoubtedly offers the best views of Lake Como, summer is the best time for water sports and the historic San Giovanni Festival in June.
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vienna, austria
The statue square in front of the Albertina Museum in Vienna, with the historic Hotel Sacher and the Vienna State Opera in the background.
Austria's capital is located between the Alps and the Carpathian Mountains, and also on the Danube River (just 2.5 hours by train from Budapest). The city's cafe culture invites tourists who are busy seeing all the tourist attractions on a limited schedule to enjoy the city like a local and enjoy a long coffee break. Vienna is also famous for its beer gardens, where you can relax with a Czech Budweiser or Schweinsbraten (roast pork) at picnic tables surrounded by greenery.
For music lovers, it would be hard to find a city that has had a greater influence on classical music than Vienna. Here you can visit Beethoven's grave, Mozart's former residence, experience a concert of his world-famous opera, and visit countless music museums.
To fully enjoy the city's charms, visit in April and May, when temperatures are mild, crowds are low, and the city is walkable.
Story editing by Cu Fleshman and Carren Jao. Copy edited by Kristen Wegzin. Selection of photos by Clarese Moller.
This story originally appeared and was produced by Contiki
Distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
