Europe Archives - Hoblets On The Go

Turkey: 3 Week Western Turkey Roadtrip

The Sultanhani Caravanserai, a magnificent 13th-century Seljuk masterpiece located along the ancient Silk Road in central Turkey, stands as a remarkably well-preserved example of medieval architecture, showcasing intricate stone carvings, grand arched entrances, and a central courtyard that once offered shelter and security to weary merchants, travellers, and their animals journeying across Anatolia.

Turkey: Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia

Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia are renowned for their extraordinary landscapes, featuring ancient cave dwellings, rock-cut churches, and fairy chimneys shaped by centuries of natural erosion and human habitation.

Turkey: Sultanhanı Caravanserai

The Sultanhani Caravanserai, a magnificent 13th-century Seljuk masterpiece located along the ancient Silk Road in central Turkey, stands as a remarkably well-preserved example of medieval architecture, showcasing intricate stone carvings, grand arched entrances, and a central courtyard that once offered shelter and security to weary merchants, travellers, and their animals journeying across Anatolia.

Turkey: Çatalhöyük

Çatalhöyük, one of the world’s earliest known urban settlements located in central Turkey, offers a fascinating glimpse into Neolithic life with its densely packed, mudbrick houses accessed by rooftop entrances, intricate wall paintings, and evidence of early agricultural practices, reflecting a surprisingly complex and organised society that thrived over 9,000 years ago.

Turkey: Konya – “City of Whirling Dervishes”

Konya, a sprawling city in central Turkey steeped in Seljuk history and known for its deeply spiritual atmosphere, enchants visitors with its mesmerising whirling dervish ceremonies, beautifully preserved mosques and madrasahs, and the striking Mevlana Museum—home to the tomb of Rumi—while offering a fascinating juxtaposition of modern life and ancient tradition, all set against the backdrop of sweeping Anatolian plains.

Turkey: Pamukkale-Hierapolis

Pamukkale-Hierapolis, located in the Denizli Province of southwestern Turkey, represents a uniquely integrated cultural and natural heritage site where the striking white travertine terraces, formed over millennia by the deposition of calcium carbonate from mineral-rich thermal waters, coexist with the extensive archaeological remains of the ancient Greco-Roman city of Hierapolis—founded in the 2nd century BCE—which include a remarkably preserved theatre, elaborate necropolis, thermal baths, and temples, collectively offering valuable insights into the religious, social, and architectural practices of the time while illustrating the continuous interaction between human activity and a dynamic geological environment.

Poland: Zamość – “The Padua of the North”

Zamość, often referred to as the "Padua of the North," is a meticulously preserved Renaissance town in southeastern Poland, founded in the late 16th century by Chancellor Jan Zamoyski and designed by the Italian architect Bernardo Morando as an ideal city, where symmetrical planning, arcaded streets and a harmonious blend of Italian and Central European architectural styles continue to reflect its historical significance, earning it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list and offering visitors a rare example of urban planning that has remained largely intact through centuries of political change and conflict.

Poland: Lublin – The Misfortune Stone

The Misfortune Stone in Lublin, Poland, is a modest yet haunting relic linked to medieval executions and enduring legend, offering visitors a quiet but compelling glimpse into the city’s layered past near Lublin Castle.

Poland: Lublin

Lublin, a historic city in eastern Poland, offers a compelling blend of medieval architecture, cultural heritage and post-communist resilience, where cobbled streets wind through the Old Town past Renaissance facades and hidden courtyards, while the echoes of its Jewish past and its role as a centre of academic and artistic life lend it a quiet yet enduring significance in the broader narrative of Central Europe.

Poland: Kraków – “Polish Athens”

Kraków, one of Poland’s oldest and most culturally rich cities, captivates visitors with its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, vibrant artistic scene, and the atmospheric charm of its historic Old Town, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The infamous railway tracks leading through the gates of thwe Birkenau death camp - near Krakow, Poland

Poland: Krakow – Auschwitz and Birkenau

Visiting Auschwitz, with its haunting remnants of barbed wire fences, crumbling barracks, and rooms filled with the personal belongings of victims, is an emotionally overwhelming yet profoundly important experience that forces one to confront the horrifying depths of human cruelty, reflect on the immense suffering endured by millions during the Holocaust, and recognise the enduring necessity of remembrance and education to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again.

Poland: Kraków – Schindler’s Factory

Schindler's Factory in Kraków, now a museum, offers a poignant insight into the harrowing experiences of Jews during the Nazi occupation and highlights Oskar Schindler's efforts to save over a thousand lives.

Turkey: Bergama – Pergamon

Pergamon Archaeological Site in Turkey is a large and fascinating ancient city where visitors can explore well-preserved ruins such as a steep theatre on the hillside, the impressive remains of temples and altars, and the historic library, all of which show how important and advanced this place was in the Greek and Roman times.

Turkey: Çanakkale – “Bowl Fortress”

Çanakkale is a small city in north-west Turkey where you can walk by the sea, visit the site of the ancient city of Troy nearby, and learn about the Gallipoli campaign from World War One, all in a quiet place that feels relaxed, easy to get around, and full of history without being crowded or overly touristy.

Turkey: The Ancient City of Troy

Nestled within the windswept plains of north-western Anatolia, the archaeological site of Troy—immortalised in Homeric legend and meticulously excavated over the course of more than a century—presents a fascinating palimpsest of ancient civilisations, with its impressive fortification walls, layered ruins spanning millennia, and artefacts that offer invaluable insights into the complex interplay of myth, history, and cultural exchange in the ancient Aegean and Near Eastern worlds.

Castilla-La Mancha

Spain: La Ciudad Encantada (Enchanted City)

The Enchanted City near Cuenca is a fascinating natural park where visitors can walk among huge, oddly shaped limestone rocks that have been carved by wind and water over thousands of years, creating formations that look like animals, people, and everyday objects, all set within a peaceful pine forest that adds to the magical, otherworldly feeling of the place.

Comunidad de Madrid

Spain: Madrid – Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro

The Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro area in Madrid offers a graceful blend of art, history, and green spaces, where grand museums line a tree-shaded boulevard leading to the tranquil gardens, fountains, and lakes of the city’s most beloved park.

Comunidad de Madrid

Spain: Madrid

Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is a city where grand boulevards, lively plazas, and elegant architecture blend effortlessly with a relaxed way of life, offering a mix of history, culture, and everyday charm that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.

Castilla-La Mancha

Spain: Cuenca – The “Eagles Nest”

Cuenca, a stunning city in central Spain perched dramatically between deep river gorges, is renowned for its mediaeval charm, its famous hanging houses known as casas colgadas, and its beautifully preserved old town that has earned UNESCO World Heritage status, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up authentic Spanish culture in a breathtaking natural setting.

Castilla-La Mancha

Spain: Toledo – “City of Three Cultures”

Toledo, Spain, often called the "City of Three Cultures" because of its rich history of Christian, Muslim and Jewish influence, is a breathtakingly beautiful place where ancient cobbled streets wind through a maze of stunning medieval architecture, including the towering Alcázar fortress and the awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, all perched dramatically on a hill overlooking the Tagus River, offering visitors a truly unforgettable glimpse into Spain's vibrant and multifaceted past.

Spain: Trujillo

Trujillo, a historic town in the heart of Extremadura, Spain, is known for its striking medieval architecture, charming cobbled streets, and panoramic views from its ancient castle, all of which reflect its rich heritage as the birthplace of famed conquistadors and make it a captivating destination for anyone interested in Spanish history and culture.

Kujawsko-Pomorskie

Poland: Toruń – “City of Copernicus”

Torun, a historic city on the Vistula River in northern Poland, is known for its beautifully preserved medieval old town, connections to Nicolaus Copernicus, and a long tradition of gingerbread making that continues to attract visitors today.

Poland: Pomorskie – The Upside Down House

The upside-down house in Poland is a curious attraction where an ordinary wooden home has been built entirely inverted, giving visitors the unusual experience of walking on ceilings and looking out of windows that appear to defy gravity.

Spain: Mérida – “the mini-Rome in Spain”

Mérida, a historic city in western Spain, is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins—including a grand amphitheatre, an impressive aqueduct, and a majestic temple—all of which reflect its ancient significance as a key outpost of the Roman Empire, and today it offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past amidst a charming blend of modern Spanish culture and centuries-old heritage.

Spain: Cáceres‎

Cáceres, a beautifully preserved mediaeval city in western Spain, enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, ancient stone walls, and blend of Roman, Moorish, and Gothic architecture, making it feel as though you’ve stepped back in time while wandering through its quiet plazas and sunlit courtyards.

Castile and León

Spain: Salamanca – Cathedral of Salamanca

The Cathedral of Salamanca, a majestic blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, stands as a testament to the city's rich historical and artistic heritage.

Castile and León

Spain: Salamanca – Convent of San Esteban

The Convent of San Esteban in Salamanca is a magnificent example of Spanish Plateresque architecture, renowned for its intricately carved façade and rich Dominican heritage.

Castile and León

Spain: Ávila‎

Ávila, Spain is a historic city known for its stunning medieval walls, well-preserved Romanesque churches, and connection to Saint Teresa of Ávila.

Castile and León

Spain: Alcázar de Segovia

Visiting the Alcázar of Segovia feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with its majestic towers and panoramic views overlooking the Castilian countryside.

Castile and León

Spain: Segovia

Segovia, Spain, is a historic city famed for its awe-inspiring Roman aqueduct, fairy-tale Alcázar castle, and soaring Gothic cathedral, all set against the backdrop of Castilla y León’s rugged landscape.

Spain: El Escorial

El Escorial, nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama near Madrid, is a vast and austere royal monastery that embodies Spain’s imperial power and deep Catholic heritage, housing a palace, basilica, library, and the royal pantheon.

Turkey: Historical Istanbul

The historical areas of Istanbul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase a rich tapestry of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture, reflecting the city's unique position as a crossroads of civilizations.

Turkey: Istanbul – “The Gate to the East”

Istanbul, a vibrant city that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural diversity.

Turkey: Istanbul – Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 AD, is a masterpiece of architecture that has served as a church, mosque, and now a mosque again, reflecting the city’s rich and complex history.

Turkey: Istanbul – Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque in Istanbul, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is renowned for its stunning blue Iznik tiles, six majestic minarets, and breathtaking Ottoman architecture.

Turkey: Istanbul – Topkapi Palace

Visiting Topkapi Palace was like stepping back in time, as I wandered through its opulent halls, marveled at the intricate tilework, and imagined the lives of sultans who once ruled from this magnificent seat of the Ottoman Empire.

Turkey: The resort town of Bodrum

Bodrum, Turkey, is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich history, including the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Poland: Pomorskie – Museum of the Second World War

The Museum of the Second World War in Gdańsk offers a deeply moving and thoughtfully curated experience, blending striking architecture with comprehensive exhibits that confront both the immense tragedy and the complex historical realities of the conflict.

Poland: Krakow – Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its vast underground labyrinth of tunnels, chapels, and sculptures intricately carved from rock salt, attracting visitors from around the world with its unique blend of natural wonder and centuries-old craftsmanship.

UK: Essex – Colchester Castle

Colchester Castle, an imposing Norman fortress constructed upon the foundations of the ancient Roman Temple of Claudius, stands as a remarkable testament to the town’s rich and layered history, showcasing a unique blend of architectural evolution, military significance, and cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors and historians alike throughout the United Kingdom.

UK: Hampshire – Winchester Cathedral

Nestled in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, the Belton Estate—an exquisite example of English Baroque architecture surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, ancient woodlands, and a majestic deer park—stands as a testament to centuries of aristocratic heritage, having been lovingly preserved by the National Trust to offer visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Brownlow family, who once resided within its stately walls and left an indelible mark on the region’s cultural and historical landscape.

UK: Hampshire – Chawton, Jane Austen’s house

Located in the charming Hampshire village of Chawton, is the former home of Jane Austen — an unassuming yet historically significant 17th-century cottage—is where the renowned author spent the final eight years of her life, revising earlier manuscripts and penning some of her most beloved novels, such as Emma, Persuasion and Mansfield Park, all while surrounded by the tranquil English countryside that so often inspired her enduring literary work.

UK: Hampshire – Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle, a magnificent example of Victorian architecture nestled in the rolling Hampshire countryside, captivates visitors with its ornate interiors, meticulously landscaped gardens, and storied history as the ancestral home of the Earls of Carnarvon, while also enjoying international renown as the primary filming location for the acclaimed television series Downton Abbey.

The front facade of the manor house at the Belton Estate - Lincolnshire, UK

UK: Lincolnshire – Belton Estate

Nestled in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, the Belton Estate—an exquisite example of English Baroque architecture surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, ancient woodlands, and a majestic deer park—stands as a testament to centuries of aristocratic heritage, having been lovingly preserved by the National Trust to offer visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Brownlow family, who once resided within its stately walls and left an indelible mark on the region’s cultural and historical landscape.

A view to the back of the manor house - Waddesden Manor, Buckinghamshire, UK

Buckinghamshire

UK: Buckinghamshire – Waddesden Manor

Waddesdon Manor, an opulent Neo-Renaissance château nestled in the Buckinghamshire countryside and constructed in the late 19th century by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, stands as a testament to the lavish tastes and extravagant entertaining style of the Rothschild family, boasting an extensive collection of fine art, furniture, and rare artefacts, all meticulously preserved and displayed within grand interiors that continue to captivate visitors and reflect the enduring legacy of European aristocratic elegance.

Portugal: National Palace of Mafra

During our recent holiday in Portugal, we spent an unforgettable afternoon exploring the magnificent National Palace of Mafra, marvelling at its opulent Baroque architecture, strolling through its vast library filled with centuries-old tomes, and wandering the beautifully manicured gardens, all while imagining the grandeur of royal life that once animated its echoing halls.

Poland: Lesser Poland – Zalipie

Zalipie, a small village in southeastern Poland, is renowned for its unique tradition of hand-painted floral decorations adorning homes, fences, wells and even barns, creating a colourful and distinctive folk-art landscape that has been maintained for over a century.

Portugal: Elvas

Elvas, Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its impressive star-shaped fortifications, historic aqueduct, and rich military history near the Spanish border.

Chapel of bones - Evora, Portugal

Portugal: Évora – Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos)

The Chapel of Bones, is a hauntingly beautiful monument adorned with human skulls and bones, inviting visitors to reflect on the fleeting nature of life.

Portugal: Évora

Évora, Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Roman Temple, and charming whitewashed houses, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.

Greece: Kos – Exploring the old town

The old town of Kos is a charming maze of narrow streets, historic ruins, and traditional whitewashed buildings, reflecting the island's rich history and cultural heritage.

Greece: Rhodes – Historic Old Town

The historic Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a beautifully preserved medieval city with cobbled streets, imposing stone walls, and a rich blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Gothic architecture.

Greece: Kos

Kos is a beautiful Greek island in the Aegean Sea, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and connection to the ancient physician Hippocrates.

Greece: Kos – The Asklepieion

The Asklepieion on the island of Kos, one of the most important healing sanctuaries of the ancient world, was dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, and served not only as a place of worship but also as a renowned centre for medical learning and treatment, where patients would undergo ritual purification, make offerings, and receive care based on a holistic approach that combined spiritual practices with emerging empirical methods—principles that were significantly shaped by the teachings of Hippocrates, who is believed to have been born on the island and whose influence on the development of Western medicine remains profound.

Greece: Rhodes – Valley of the butterlies

The Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes) in Rhodes, Greece, is a unique nature reserve known for its stunning natural beauty and the presence of thousands of Jersey Tiger Moths (Euplagia quadripunctaria), which cover the valley during the summer months.

Greece: Rhodes – The Village of Lindos

Lindos, a picturesque village on the island of Rhodes, Greece, is renowned for its stunning whitewashed buildings, ancient Acropolis, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Castilla-La Mancha

Spain: Salamanca – “The Golden City”

Salamanca, Spain, is a historic city known for its stunning Plaza Mayor, golden sandstone architecture, and one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Salamanca, founded in 1218.

Greece: Syros

Syros, a captivating island in the Cyclades of Greece, enchants visitors with its neoclassical architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and idyllic beaches, making it a perfect blend of history and modern charm.

Greece: Paros

Paros, a charming Greek island in the Cyclades, is renowned for its picturesque villages, golden beaches, and vibrant culture, blending traditional charm with modern elegance.

Greece: Santorini

Santorini, Greece, renowned for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed architecture, and crystal-clear Aegean waters, is a picturesque island that epitomizes the charm of the Cyclades.

Greece: Athens – Travel Guide

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a historic city known as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy, with iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon.

Greece: Athens – The Acropolis

The Acropolis in Athens, Greece, is an ancient citadel that stands as a symbol of classical civilization, featuring iconic structures like the Parthenon, which showcase the architectural and artistic achievements of ancient Greece.

Greece: Archaeological site of Mycenae

The Archaeological Site of Mycenae, located in northeastern Peloponnese, Greece, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its monumental architecture, including the iconic Lion Gate, ancient palace complex, and richly adorned tombs, reflecting the grandeur of the Mycenaean civilization (1600–1100 BCE)

Turkey: Galipoli – The War Graves

The war graves on the Gallipoli Peninsula stand as solemn reminders of the immense sacrifice made by soldiers during the First World War, with headstones marking the resting places of men from across the Commonwealth.

Greece: Mystras

Mystras, Greece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning medieval fortress town near Sparta, renowned for its well-preserved Byzantine churches, monasteries, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Laconian landscape.

Greece: Temple of Apollo Epicurius

The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, built in the 5th century BCE in the remote mountains of Arcadia, Greece, is a remarkable blend of Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian architectural styles, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Greek design and craftsmanship.

Greece: Olympia

Olympia, Greece, is an ancient archaeological site renowned for being the birthplace of the Olympic Games, featuring impressive ruins, including the Temple of Zeus, and set amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Greece: Delphi

Delphi, Greece, an ancient sanctuary once considered the center of the world in Greek mythology, is renowned for its Oracle of Apollo, breathtaking ruins, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Greece: Arachova

Arachova, Greece, is a picturesque mountain town on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, renowned for its traditional charm, vibrant ski culture, and proximity to the ancient sanctuary of Delphi.

Greece: Thermopylae

The Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BCE was a legendary conflict where a small Greek force, led by King Leonidas of Sparta, heroically held off the vastly larger Persian army of Xerxes for three days in a narrow mountain pass, epitomizing courage and sacrifice.

A rear view of the Baroque style features of the Schonbrunn Palace - Vienna, Austria

Austria: Vienna – Travel Guide

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city rich in history, culture, and art. Known for its imperial palaces, classical music heritage, and elegant architecture, Vienna has been a center of European influence for centuries.

Austria: Vienna – The Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the preservation and practice of classical dressage. Established over 450 years ago, it is the oldest riding school in continuous existence.

Austria: Vienna – The works of Friedensreich Hundertwasser

Friedensreich Hundertwasser was an Austrian artist and architect known for his vibrant, nature-inspired works that rejected straight lines and emphasized organic forms. His architectural designs, such as the Hundertwasserhaus in Vienna, showcase his philosophy of harmony with nature through irregular shapes, vivid colors, and the incorporation of greenery.

Austria: Vienna – The Globe and Esperanto Museums

Vienna, Austria, is home to two fascinating niche museums that captivate visitors with their unique themes: the Globe Museum and the Esperanto Museum.

Austria: Vienna – The Austrian National Library

The Austrian National Library (Österreichische Nationalbibliothek), located in the heart of Vienna, is one of the most magnificent libraries in the world and a treasure trove of Austrian cultural heritage. Established in 1368, it is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, originally serving as the Imperial Court Library of the Habsburgs.

The Upper Belvedere Palace - Vienna, Austria

Austria: Vienna – Belvedere Palace

The Belvedere Palace in Vienna is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and one of the most iconic landmarks in Austria. Built in the early 18th century as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, the palace comprises two magnificent structures: the Upper and Lower Belvedere, separated by beautifully landscaped gardens.

Hungary: Budapest – UNESCO

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, boasts a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase its historical and architectural splendor. Among the most notable is the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue, which were collectively inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1987.

Hungary: Budapest – “The Queen of the Danube”

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city steeped in history, culture, and architectural splendor. Straddling the majestic Danube River, it unites the hilly Buda district with the flat, bustling Pest side.

Ringbu stave church in Norway

Norway: The Stave Churches of Norway

Stave churches are iconic medieval wooden churches found primarily in Norway. They are renowned for their unique architecture, characterized by wooden frameworks with intricate carvings and steep, multi-tiered roofs. These churches were constructed during the 12th to 14th centuries, a time when Christianity was becoming firmly established in Norway. Today, they are considered treasures of Norwegian cultural heritage.

Norway: Bergen – Travel Guide

Bergen, the second-largest city in Norway, is a picturesque coastal destination nestled between seven mountains and fjords, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Known as the "Gateway to the Fjords," Bergen is a UNESCO World Heritage city celebrated for its historic Bryggen Wharf, a vibrant area lined with colorful wooden buildings that date back to the Hanseatic League. The city is also a cultural hub, boasting world-class museums, art galleries, and a thriving music scene, all set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore Bergen’s rich maritime heritage, hike scenic trails, or take fjord cruises to experience the dramatic scenery that surrounds this enchanting Nordic city.

Norway: Bergen – Troldhaugen

Troldhaugen is a historic site located near Bergen, Norway, famous for being the home of the Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg (1843–1907). Built in 1885, the villa served as Grieg's residence for over 20 years and was an important creative retreat where he composed many of his masterpieces.

Norway: Bergen – Bryggen Wharf

Bryggen Wharf, located in Bergen, Norway, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vibrant symbol of the city’s rich maritime history. Dating back to the 14th century, this iconic row of colorful, timber-clad buildings once served as a hub for the Hanseatic League, facilitating trade across Northern Europe.

Norway: Nærøyfjord

The West Norwegian Fjords are among the most dramatic and spectacular landscapes in existence. The World Heritage site incorporates two separate areas: Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. Both offer a wide range of scenic experiences.

Norway: Urnes Stave Church

Urnes Stave Church – Norway’s oldest and most highly decorated stave church. Three churches have preceded todays church at Ornes. A hundred years would pass between the first and the fourth, the one we can visit today dates to around 1130.

Norway: Briksdalsbreen Glacier

Briksdalsbreen Glacier in Olden, Nordfjord, is an arm of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier. The hike from Briksdalen Valley to the glacier is one of most scenic hikes in Norway.

Møre og Romsdal

Norway: Geirangerfjord

The West Norwegian Fjords are among the most dramatic and spectacular landscapes in existence. The World Heritage site incorporates two separate areas: Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. Both offer a wide range of scenic experiences.

Norway: Oslo – The Fram Museum

The Fram Museum contains exhibitions of some of the most famous voyages of exploration. The centerpiece of the museum is the world´s strongest wooden ship, the polar ship Fram.

Norway: Trondheim

Trondheim, historic port, central Norway. It lies on a sheltered peninsula on the southern shore of the deeply indented Trondheims Fjord at the mouth of the Nidelva (river), 23 miles (37 km) southeast of the Norwegian Sea.

Portugal: The Parks of Sintra

The parks of Sintra, such as the lush Parque da Pena and the mystical Monserrate Gardens, enchant visitors with their romantic landscapes, exotic flora, and fairy-tale ambiance, making them a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Norway: Oslo – A visitor’s guide

Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a vibrant city where modern urban life meets breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled between the Oslofjord and lush forests, the city offers a mix of cutting-edge architecture, historic landmarks, and cultural institutions like renowned museums and galleries.

Norway: Lillehammer

Lillehammer (28.000 inhabitants), considered Norway's oldest winter sports resort and host of the 1994 Winter Olympics. The Lillehammer region is also famous for its ski terrain and excellent winter sport facilities

Norway: Oslo – The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History (Norsk Folkemuseum)

Norsk Folkemuseum is a museum of cultural history with extensive collections of artifacts from all social groups and all regions of the country. It also incorporates a large open-air museum with more than 150 buildings, relocated from towns and rural districts.

Portugal: Lisbon – “City of Seven Hills”

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is known for its stunning hills, historic trams, pastel-coloured buildings, and rich maritime heritage.

Norway: Oslo – The Norwegian Center for Holocaust

The Norwegian Center for Holocaust and Minority Studies is a research, education and documentation center in Oslo focusing on the Holocaust, other genocides, extremism, antisemitism, hate speech, and the situation of minorities in contemporary societies.

Portugal: Lisbon – Castelo de São Jorge

Castelo de São Jorge, perched atop a hill in Lisbon, offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River, showcasing centuries of Moorish and medieval history.

Portugal: Lisbon – Igreja de São Vicente de Fora

Igreja de São Vicente de Fora is a stunning 16th-century church and monastery in Lisbon, Portugal, known for its impressive Baroque architecture, rich azulejo tilework, and as the final resting place of the Braganza monarchs.

Portugal: Lisbon – National Tile Museum

The National Coach Museum in Belém, Lisbon, houses one of the world's finest collections of ornate royal carriages, showcasing the evolution of horse-drawn transport from the 16th to the 19th century.

Norway: Oslo – The National Maritime Museum

The Norwegian Maritime Museum is situated in beautiful surroundings on the waterfront on the Bygdøy peninsula. The museum presents Norwegian maritime history, shipbuilding and underwater technology.

Portugal: Lisbon – National Coaches Museum

The National Coach Museum in Belém, Lisbon, houses one of the world's finest collections of ornate royal carriages, showcasing the evolution of horse-drawn transport from the 16th to the 19th century.

The amazing cloisters - Mosteiro dos Jeronimos - Monastery Jeronimos, Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal: Lisbon – Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower

Jeronimos Monastery and Belém Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Lisbon, Portugal, showcase stunning Manueline architecture and stand as iconic symbols of the city's rich maritime history.

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