In This Issue:
Europe - 16 Exciting Paths Less Travelled

Our Top 16 - Must-see European cities off-the-beaten track

With 48 distinct countries to choose from, it's no wonder Europe attracts millions of visitors each year. It holds so much fascinating history and spectacular scenery that it is often a challenge knowing where to start. But for seasoned travellers or those looking for cities a little off the beaten path, here are 16 of our favourite lesser visited places we definitely think are worth exploring.

1. Florence

One of the most beautiful and ancient cities in Italy, Florence is the birthplace of many of the people who have profoundly influenced the course of human history in every field of art, literature and philosophy.

2. Prague

Built on the two banks of the Vltava River, this elegant city is a beguiling mix of ancient architecture, cobblestone streets and a magical atmosphere. Most of the city survived World War II intact resulting in the entire historic centre of the city being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Barcelona

Barcelona is a wonderful mix of both old and new featuring everything from relaxing beaches to stunning architecture from the gothic quarter to Anton Gaudi's fabulous creations as well as the contemporary masterpieces built for the Olympic Games.

4. Dubrovnik

The uniqueness of this Adriatic jewel lies in its diversity. Situated between the mountains and the Adriatic Sea, the walled city of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is visited by millions of visitors from across the world each year.

5. Vienna

Vienna, one the capital of the Hapsburg Empire, is now a proud guardian of a rich and spectacular history. The city is bejewelled with grand palaces, monumental churches, and a myriad of galleries and museums. Vienna's most famous resident, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, has long gone but his legacy remains and a night at a classical recital in one of the many magnificent venues is a must.

6. Lisbon

Lisbon is a city of dreams, clinging to seven hills and overlooking the Tagus River. More relaxed than many of the other European capitals (and a little cheaper too) it's easy to stay a while here as there is so much to see and do. From friendly locals to a lively nightlife to stunning natural settings, Lisbon will not fail to impress.

7. Dublin

There are so many layers to the Irish capital, it's more like a dozen Dublins rolled into one. There's the historic Dublin, with elegant old buildings and monuments recalling the city's sometimes passionate and violent past. The city's literary pedigree is linked to some of the world's greatest writers, poets and playwrights, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett. And there's playtime Dublin which includes the vibrant pub scene in Temple Bar, top-class theatre, music, comedy and dance.

8. Istanbul

The capital of Turkey, Istanbul, is an old city that is inspired by many different cultures, religious views and eras. Half old world with narrow alleyways, bazaars, mosques and churches, the other half is modern and cosmopolitan. One of the largest cities in the world, Istanbul is spread over both Europe and Asia making it the only city in the world that sits on two continents.

9. Amsterdam

Amsterdam has been called the greatest small city in Europe, and offers visitors a diverse range of sights and sounds. While it may be a small city it certainty doesn't lack the big city attractions. It's vibrant and colourful from the 'coffee shops' to red light display windows and risque live shows-this is a European city like no other!

10. Munich

Munich, with its mix of Alpine charm, old squares and beer gardens is yet another reason to visit fabulous Germany. Home of the original Oktoberfest as well as the 1972 Olympics, the city manages to successfully blend old Bavarian tradition with a vibrant modern life.

11. Brussels

Medieval cities, incredible Flemish Art, gardens and canals, and festivals galore make Belgium the perfect tourist destination. One of the most cosmopolitan destinations on the continent, the heart of Brussels is the beautiful Grand Place, a cultural and commercial nexus.

12. Copenhagen

With narrow streets, old houses and crisscrossing canals, Copenhagen is often called 'the Paris of the north'. Pay homage to fairy tale master Hans Christian Andersen with a visit to many of the places he lived, his gravesite in the Assistens Kirkegard, and of course, The Little Mermaid statue by the harbour.

13. Edinburgh

Providing the ideal balance between old and new sits Scotland's capital, Edinburgh. This is a city of elegant streets, cobbled alleys, and incomparable sunsets. Contemporary in many aspects such as cuisine, entertainment and shopping, the city blends the traditions and architecture of hundreds of years of history with ease.

14. Zurich

With a stunning lakeside setting, Zurich is a vibrant, busy metropolis but also has its quieter side. Admire the Alps that surround the city, sail on the lake or discover the charming old town. Year after year, Zurich is labeled one of the best cities in the world to live, it's not hard to see why.

15. Budapest

Considered one of the world's most beautiful capitals, Budapest serves as a link between Eastern and Western Europe, created out of the unification of the historic towns of Buda, Pest and Obuda in 1873. It has managed to maintain its magic and charm and is rightly known as the Queen of the Danube.

16. Krakow

Krakow is a vibrant city, proud of its long history, ample heritage, and architectural beauties. The renaissance Royal Castle at Wawel, the gothic St Mary's Basilica, the former separate Jewish city of Kazimierz absorbed by Krakow together with its socialist-realist, industrial architecture are all places which make a visit extremely worthwhile.

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