Author and photographer - Ivan Andrejić
Romantic Europe From well know cities to hidden villages, from pictoresce Greek islands to medieval castles of Luxembourg you will discovere that Europe is perfect for your romantic getaway. Spring in France, summers in the Alps, sunny autumns in Balkans and winter in Andalucia, it is always good time for European trip with your loved ones. Even if you are solo traveler you will meet curious locals and find new friends. On the lists of the most romantic places of Europe you will always find cities such as Paris, Amsterdam Florence or Prague. And its true, those are special places that you have to see, but there is so much more to experience from Scandinavia to Malta and from Russia to Spain. With this book I want to inspire you to start discovering Europe and its romantic places, to tell you more about how diverse this beautiful continent can be, but also to teach you about best possible way of traveling around Europe.
Santorini If you have to choose one destination in Europe it have to be beautiful Greek island of Santorini. Crescent-shaped Santorini or Thíra, the precious gem of the Aegean, is actually a group of islands consisting of Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni in the southernmost part of Cyclades. The whole complex of Santorini islands is still an active volcano and probably the only volcano in the world whose crater is in the sea? The islands that form Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic activity; twelve huge eruptions occurred, one every 20,000 years approximately, and each violent eruption caused the collapse of the volcano’s central part creating a large crater (caldera). The volcano, however, managed to recreate itself over and over again. The last big eruption occurred 3,600 years ago (during the Minoan Age), when igneous material (mainly ash, pumice and lava stones) covered the three islands (Thíra, Thirassiá and Asproníssi). The eruption destroyed the thriving local prehistoric civilization, evidence of which was found during the excavations of a settlement at Akrotíri. The solid material and gases emerging from the volcano’s interior created a huge “vacuum” underneath, causing the collapse of the central part and the creation of an enormous “pot” –today’s Caldera– with a size of 8×4 km and a depth of up to 400m below sea level. The eruption of the submarine volcano Kolúmbo, located 6.5 km. NE of Santorini, on 27th September 1650, was actually the largest recorded in Eastern Mediterranean during the past millennium! The most recent volcanic activity on the island occurred in 1950. The whole island is actually a huge natural geological/volcanological museum where you can observe a wide range of geological structures and forms!
Today, Santorini is considered to be the most sought after place for a romantic getaway in Greece, since there are not many places in the world where you can enjoy exquisitely clear waters while perched on the rim of a massive active volcano in the middle of the sea! The island has a growing reputation as a “wedding destination” for couples not only from Greece but from all over the world. A trip to Santorini with the other half is a dream for anyone who has seen at least one photo of the island’s famous Caldera and exchanging kisses beneath Santorini’s famous sunset is the ultimate romantic experience!
Cinque Terre Cinque Terre is a worldwide celebrated tourist destination the reputation of which revolves around its famed hiking trails and gastronomic and oenological produces. However, Cinque Terre became a notable presence on the tourist map of the world no sooner than the 1960s. Until then, the villages now known under the name of Cinque Terre used to doze away sunken in the greenery of the olive groves and of the vineyards, but tourism eventually started to take over, turning the Five Lands into the ultimate destination on the Ligurian Riviera, at least for visitors keen on extensive outdoors explorations and restless dainty feeders. Cinque Terre has always been a land of peaceful fishermen and farmers, constantly or occasionally pillaged by pirates and slave traders and today is ideal place for honeymooners and couples seeking for romance in Europe.
Antequera Antequera is true gem of sunny Andalucia, and perfect setting for romance in southern region of Spain. The natural characteristics have turned Antequera into a passage and settlement place for several communities which, since the Paleolithic period, have settled in the Iberian Peninsula. However, main prehistoric remains come from the Bronze Age, such as the Dolmen Complex of Menga, Viera and El Romeral, dated between 2500 and 2000 B.C. Antequera also went through a rich period of Romanization, as it is evidenced by the archeological sites The Arab conquest consolidated a very important center of population called Medina Antaquira that, since the mid-13th century, after the conquest of Sevilla and Jaen, became an important border military fort. Due to its location, the Castilian Monarchs realized that it was the key to enter into the Granada kingdom and, as such, they tried to conquer it several times. When the Granada kingdom was conquered by the Castilian Monarchs (1492), Antequera changed from being a garrison town to a zone of urban and demographic expansion. In the 16th century, Antequera became one of the most important towns of Andalucia thanks to the great trade activity generated by the control exercised over the freight traffic between the main crossroads of Sevilla-Granada and that of Mรกlaga-Cรณrdoba. Now, Antequera living a strong and progressive increase of the tourist activity, thanks to privileged geographic location and boosted by the multimodal transport network which has made the epicenter of any operation of communication infrastructure from the South of Europe.
Granada Granada is mysterious and beautiful city in south-east of Spain. It was first settled by native tribes in the prehistoric period, and was known as Ilbyr. When the Romans colonised southern Spain, they built their own city here and called it Illibris. The Arabs, invading the peninsula in the 8th century, gave it its current name of Granada. It was the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in 1492. One of the most brilliant jewels of universal architecture is the Alhambra, a series of palaces and gardens built under the Nazari Dynasty in the 14th C. This mighty compound of buildings – including the summer palace called Generalife, with its fountains and gardens - stands at the foot of Spain’s highest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada, and overlooks the city below and the fertile plain of Granada. The hill facing the Alhambra is the old Moorish casbah or “medina”, called the Albaicin, a fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and white-washed houses with secluded inner gardens, known as “cármenes”. The Plaza de San Nicolas, at the highest point of the Albaicin, is famous for its magnificent view of the Alhambra palace. The Sacromonte hill, which overlooks the city from the North, is famous for its cave dwellings, once the home of Granada’s large gypsy community.
Toledo The Historic City of Toledo has recorded on the Official World Heritage List within the “Cultural Assets” since 1986 because of its landscapes, its geographic setting, the embedding of the river, the Cigarrales orchards, las Vegas lowlands, the location of the migmatite (ancient metamorphic rocks) city, its viewpoints (La Granja, Virgen de Gracia, Santa Leocadia, San Cristóbal). The city of Toledo is placed at the top of a granite headland that the river Tajo, with a deeply embedded riverbed, surrounds and isolates on the east, south and west sides, while to the north it joins the Castile plateau along the district of La Sagra. Its location is as original as Venice or Bruges.
Malta With year-round sunshine, crystal waters and luxurious resorts, Malta offers the perfect backdrop to a wedding or honeymoon. In Maltese culture, marriages are lavish affairs, but whether you’re planning a laidback do for close family or a spectacular affair for 200, any wedding held there will be one to remember. With 7,000 years of history, the Maltese Islands are steeped in culture and heritage. This historic legacy, unique in the Mediterranean, is reflected in the country’s national architecture and collections. There are so many areas of heritage and culture to be explored – the 16th century masterpiece Grandmasters’ Palace, the “Sacra Infermeria”, which is now a fully equipped conference centre, the St. James Centre for Creativity – a superbly restored fortification where contemporary works of art are exhibited against the original rough-textured walls and rediscovered spaces. With these buildings, past and present blend into an enduring and admirable lesson in the art of living. For the ultimate in secluded romance, couples can escape onto the open crystal blue waters, secluded coves and blue lagoons by chartering a yacht. Malta’s location at the heart of the Mediterranean also makes it the ultimate yachting hub, with a number of harbours able to accommodate anything from small yachts to the biggest super yachts in the Mediterranean. Yacht Chartering is easy and there are many options available for beginners and seasoned sailors alike.
Arles People think of Arles for the wealth of its ancient (Roman monuments) and Romanic heritage. Its buildings and monuments were listed UNESCO world heritage sites in 1981. These include the Roman amphitheatre (the arena), the ancient theatre, the Cryptoporticus, Constantine’s Roman baths, the remains of the Roman circus, St Trophime Monastery, St Trophime gate and the Alyscamps, which mark the point of departure of the Arles Route, one of the three routes leading to Santiago de Compostela. The Arles route is also known as way of Arles or via Tolosana. Arles’ geographical location on the Mediterranean between Italy and Spain, gave it a strategic role in the Roman empire. Suetonius described it as “ The little Rome of Gaul”. The amphitheatre is the most important monument of the ancient Roman colony that has allowed to admire, some two thousand years after its construction. Its architecture is entirely designed in relation to its vocation of place to great shows, hosting a numerous audience. In their initial rise, the bleachers could receive approximately 21 000 viewers, which flows were cleverly organized by a network of doors, galleries and stairs, on several floors. Arles has always inspired artists. Van Gogh, attracted by the light in the south of France, spent 15 month here and accomplished more than 300 paintings. Picasso came to see the bullfights accompanied by Lucien Clergue, and left donating paintings and drawings to the Réattu Museum.
Avignon Avignon, for some time capital of Christendom in the Middle Ages, retains the indelible mark of its grandiose destiny : the palais des papes (palace of the popes), the Saint-Benezet brigde, called the  pont d’Avignon  of worldwide fame through its commemoration by the song, and the ramparts constitute an exceptional complex of monuments listed by UNESCO as World Heritage sites. In addition dozens of churches and chapels, all remains of a past rich in history give the city its unique atmosphere. Birthplace of the prestigious festival of contemporary theatre, European Capital of Culture in 2000, Avignon also has many museums, an opera house / theatre, an exhibition hall and a congress center with installations on the cutting edge of technology located within the outstanding premises of the Palais des Papes.
With a legendary bridge and the famous Palais des Papes, the ramparts, the 17th and 18th century private mansions in the old part of the city, the gardens, the incredible cultural wealth of churches and museums you will be surprised by the beauty and diversity of the cultural inheritance of Avignon. Avignon is the home of the largest gothic palace in the world. The palace of the Pope is the symbol of the importants of the Church in the Christian western world in the 14th century. The palace was built in less then 20 years, starting in 1335, and was primarly built by two popes, Pope Benedict XII and by his successor Pope Clement VI This unique architectural ensamble has been ranked as a UNESCO world heritage site along with Saint Benezet bridge.
Antibes A wealthy city with a prestigious past, loved by Greeks and Romans, but also the second city of the Alpes-Maritimes, Antibes Juan-les-Pins is all cities at once. While it has been able to preserve its exceptional heritage, its Vauban ramparts and the heart of its old town, it has also managed to retain the authenticity which is its raison d’etre, becoming a young and dynamic town where you feel at home. The writer Graham Greene was not wrong: “Of all the towns of the coast, this is the only one that has managed to keep its soul, and the only one I feel at home in.” Ideally located in the very heart of the Côte d’Azur, between Nice et Cannes, the city of “Joie de vivre” so dear to Picasso has become one of the most prized destinations of the “French Riviera”. Flush with the sea, it cultivates its difference… Stones gilded with the history of the ancient and picturesque Provençal city, the luxurious celebrity boltholes of Cap d’Antibes, the bustling, fine beaches of Juan-les Pins, its world-famous nightlife and cosmopolitan clientele, attracted by a unique ambience... A town full of temptations, Antibes Juan-les-Pins knows how to keep its promises
Menton Between neighbouring Italy and the Principality of Monaco, lies the “Riviera Française” with its “jewel,” the city of Menton, Baroque, Ligurian, Belle Époque and luxuriant in a leafy setting. A paradise of gardens and “Ville d’Art & d’Histoire,” Menton is also an incomparable showcase for the architectural styles which have shaped this secret Riviera. Here, the relief is very rugged, with perched villages like Sainte-Agnès, the highest coastal village in Europe, or Gorbio and Castellar. Menton is also the departure point for the Roya-Bevera valleys, which complete the impression of being both in France and Italy, actually, the former Comté de Nice. Cap-Martin, visible in the Bay, can be explored along a coastal trail. The old village of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is dominated by its castle, standing like a sentinel overlooking the Principality of Monaco.
Nice The former Comté de Nice, now the “Métropole Nice-Côte d’Azur Airport” is in every way the throbbing heart of the destination Côte d’Azur (French Riviera). Nissa la Bella must be discovered in all its facets: historical, cultural, artistic, festive, seaside, societal, tourist. Baroque art, the Belle Époque and Modernism are some of the many different styles in a truly contemporary city which fully plays itsrole as Capital of the Côte d’Azur. It is surrounded by the Pays Niçois and its hills, villages, vineyards and nature. The nearby coast offers the destination’s most splendid postcard views with Villefranche-sur-Mer, where cruise ships stop, Beaulieu and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, gems of the Riviera. From the striking village of Èze, there is a panorama over theentire Coast, with its rugged relief and contrasting landscapes. To the West of the Airport, on the edge of the city, Saint-Laurent-du-Var and Cagnes-sur-Mer are lovely seaside towns with broader shorelines and the mountains further inland.
Monaco A unique area in the Côte d’Azur, the historic city of Monaco is intimately linked to the history of the Grimaldi, who still reign over it. A visit to the Principality, and particularly its “rocks”, is a must.
At the same time a modern city, a symbol of economic, touristic and real estate hyper activity, and a glamorous and traditional postcard, the Principality is synonymous with luxury, exceptional festivals, gambling, the jet set, top brands...With its hilly environment, its vertiginous lanes leading to the beaches of the Mediterranean, the “French Riviera touch� is more real than ever.
Ventimiglia Ventimiglia is on the edge of Italy; the first town visitors see when they enter the country from France. It has a character unlike any other Riviera town, retaining its traditional identity while adopting an eclectic selection of the new. There’s none of the glitz and glamour of its neighbours; instead it’s an honest, understated yet comfortable place to visit, explore or just be. Every Friday all year round, French residents and tourists from across the border flock to its popular street market along the lungomare (seafront). They also come for the daily indoor fruit and vegetable market, for which the town is justly famous. You won’t find the usual outlets and few of the well-known brands have their own shops here; instead there’s a colourful mixture of small shops of all kinds, from boutiques
Positano Positano, like the legendary Sirens of Li Galli, never fails to seduce. Seen from the sea, Positano is set in a dramatic vertical panorama of colors; the green of the Monti Lattari, the white, pink and yellow of the Mediterranean houses, the silvery grey of its pebble beaches and the blue of the sea. The Ancient Romans built a number of sumptuous villas on the coast of Positano, the ruins of which can be seen in the vicinity of the Church dell’Assunta. It is believed that the town, the original nucleus of which developed around a Benedictine abbey, was founded in the 9th century. The fortunes of Positano, like its roads, have continually risen and fallen: in 1343 the town was destroyed by a terrible tsunami and in the 15th century it was the victim of continual attacks by Ottoman pirates. In the 18th century, Positano enjoyed a period of prosperity as a major port and trading hub. Following the unification of Italy and the opening of a number of new commercial routes, the town’s importance began to decline, so much so that, in just a few decades, it was reduced to little more than a humble fishing village. Today is one of the most visited towns in beautiful Amalfi coast in southern Italy.
Siena Surrounded by olive groves and the vineyards of Chianti, Siena is one of the most beautiful cities of Tuscany. Set on three hills, the city is drawn together by winding alleyways and steep steps, whilst the Piazza del Campo stands at its heart, and the Duomo and St Maria della Scala serve as additional cultural landmarks. Famed for the “Palio�, the annual historic horse-races that take place on 2 July and 16 August, it is also home to one of the oldest Universities in Europe, which ensures a vibrant Italian student atmosphere throughout the academic year. Few geographical areas in the world can boast of the variety of environment that surrounds Siena. To the north, the richness of the Chianti landscape, woven with vines and olive-trees throughout the hills. South of Siena, the Arbia valley leads to the hill-top town of Montalcino, home to the famous Brunello wine. And the area La Crete stretches out, amazing visitors with its harsh rock formations and unique landscape. With such natural beauty within easy reach by car or public transport, Siena is a good place to base yourself for a Tuscan experience. The Chianti area, between Florence and Siena, is one of the most beautiful countrysides in Italy and a famous wine production area.
St. Moritz St. Moritz is more than just a holiday resort. It was also the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism (in 1864) and has twice hosted the Winter Olympics. Nevertheless, St. Moritz first became famous thanks to its mineral springs, which were discovered 3,000 years ago and established the town as a summer spa resort early on. St. Moritz, which is in the Upper Engadine, at an elevation of 1,856 m, boasts plenty of sunny days. It was exactly this sun that was legally protected as the emblem of St. Moritz in 1930. St. Moritz was often ahead of the times - for example, the first electric light went on at Christmastime in 1878, the first golf tournament in the Alps took place here, in 1889 and one of the first ski lifts in Switzerland began running in 1935. Guests from all over the world appreciate the modern Alpine lifestyle, characterised by top-class restaurants that can satisfy gourmet demands even by the side of the slopes, hotels that set standards in every category, and events of international calibre. The Via Serlas guarantees great shopping in a small space, though you can also find local specialities like the famous Engadine nut tart just around the corner. Sights such as the leaning tower, a remnant of the Mauritius Church from around 1500, or the Segantini Museum, offer a change from the life of luxury and the jet set.
Lavaux vineyards The terraced vineyards of the Lavaux site unfold above Lake Geneva for some 14 kilometres, forming a real link between Lausanne and Vevey-Montreux. Not only does the listed status of Lavaux as a UNESCO World Heritage site pay tribute to an age-old vineyard, it is also a living “cultural landscape�, a remarkable testimony to an authentic a nd dynamic civilisation. A warm welcome awaits in Lavaux, where visitors are called to explore this bucolic land of vines by wine trails or miniature train. Whether in families or groups, walkers are welcome in any of the numerous wine-producing cellars offering tastings of local vintages, which are gaining increasing international recognition. And it is always possible for the curious amateur to organise a visit to a cellar, which will reveal to you the secrets of wine production and grape harvests.
Freiburg Freiburg, nestled on a rock promontory, is surrounded on three sides by the Saane River. It is one of the largest medieval towns in Ăœechtland. Over 200 unique Gothic facades from the 15th century impart incomparable medieval charm to the Old Town. Ramparts that are over two kilometers long used to protect the city in the past. Remnants of the walls, turrets and bastions are still preserved. Most impressive, however, is the Cathedral of Freiburg with its extraordinarily beautiful stained-glass windows. Construction started in 1283 and continued in several stages. Dedicated to St. Nicholas, it boasts a 74-meter-high tower that offers a fantastic panoramic view. Another good viewpoint is the Italian-style early Baroque Loreto Chapel. From the Neuveville district (in the Lower Town), a funicular railway takes you up to the pedestrianised area of the Upper Town. Fribourg is a lively university town, with many students from all over the world, making this a cosmopolitan, multi-faceted mini-metropolis. In the narrow alleyways are tightly packed rows of little boutiques, antique shops, student cafĂŠs and restaurants, offering local and foreign specialities. It is worth making an excursion to Hauterive Abbey, a Cistercian abbey founded in 1137, and once a stopping place on the pilgrims’ route to Santiago de Compostela.
Castles of Luxembourg Those who have visited Luxembourg City, the Grand Duchy’s capital, will find it hard to forget all their memories and impressions. Visitors can expect an exciting walk through a capital characterised by a 1000-year-old history. For centuries, Luxembourg was referred to as the “Gibraltar of the North”. This was due to the strong fortifications built by Louis XIV ‘s fortress builder Vauban. Luxembourg is however not only fascinating on its surface. The 23 km long underground network of casemates run under the city and used to shelter soldiers and horses back in the day. Since 1994, these unique historical remains have been listed as UNESCO world heritage sites. Towering above the Our valley, the castle of Vianden (11th -17th century) is one of the greatest historic fortifications in Europe and welcomes visitors with its impressive silhouette from far away. The steep hike to reach the castle is well worth it, the castle of Vianden is one of the most magnificently restored fortresses of the Grand Duchy. From the colourful chapel to the archaeological crypt, the knight hall to the weapons room without forgetting the banqueting hall, Vianden gives a detailed insight into life in a medieval castle. It comes as no surprise that the French poet Victor Hugo appreciated the advantages of the town and castle. In July, the biggest and most intrinsically restored castle, left of the river Rhine, is home to the largest medieval festival in Luxembourg and its neighbouring regions.
Bourglinster Castle was probably founded in the late
10th century. It consisted of a upper and lower castle. The lower castle was probably finished in the early 15th century. The moat was dug out in the 15th century, but did not protect the castle quite as was intended to for in 1682 and again in 1684 French troops attacked and destroyed parts of the castle. Almost all the buildings of the lower castle were demolished in the late 17th century.
During the 2nd quarter of the 18th Century, the baroque facade at the back of the courtyard was erected. In 1982 the association “Friends of Bourglinster Castle� was founded. They organise the Bourglinster Music Festival as well as exhibitions, concerts, lectures and receptions in the castle. The barns opposite the castle have been restored as art workshops. A renowned restaurant is within the castle walls.
The Moselle valley Like a blue ribbon, the Moselle twists and turns its way between Trier and Koblenz along one of Germany’s most beautiful river valleys. The Moselle flows through a region that has been shaped by man for over 2,000 years, ever since it was first cultivated by the Romans. At some places the terraced vineyards seem to rise up almost to the sky. Some of the best Rieslings grow here. A myriad of castles towering over romantic wine villages line the banks of the river. Traben-Trarbach with its impressive art-nouveau architecture and Bernkastel-Kues with its lovely market square are just two of the many unmissable places on the Moselle. The Cochem castle is one of the most beautiful castles on Moselle river. The contours of the neo-gothic building rise more than about 330 ft above the river Moselle on an outstanding hill. The silhouette of the towering hill seems to continue in the building which is topped by the slate roof of the massive keep. As for its structure, Cochem Castle belongs to the category of castles protected by height that had to be protected all around. Romanesque fragments found in the well indicate a reinforcement of the castle around 1056.
Rhine valley The Romantic Rhine is a unique region with two UNESCO World Heritage sites to its name: the Upper Middle Rhine Valley and the Upper German-Raetian Limes. There can surely be no more obvious testimony to the great importance of the Rhine Valley than the huge number of castles, fortresses and palaces to be found there. A river of such significance that no-one could pass by unhindered - a trade route too full of riches not to claim its share of the treasure. The Romantic Rhine boasts more than 50 castles and fortifications, not including its patrician dwellings and manor houses. A real Eldorado for fans of the Middle Ages who would love to slip into the role of a knight, princess or lord of a castle just for the day. Most of the castles are open to the public and invite visitors to learn more about life inside their thick defence walls. These castles are the perfect embodiment of Rhine Romanticism, whether it be the soft, melancholic atmosphere of an ancient ruin that beckons us, or the lavish furnishings and valuable works of art in a freshly refurbished landmark. Man has erected buildings here for well over a thousand years and they are like mirrors, reflecting the different ages here on the Rhine and taking visitors from the tops of towers on the highest peaks right down to the dank dungeons of erstwhile robber barons.
Colmar For Georges Duhamel (as he wrote in 1931), Colmar was the “most beautiful town in the world”. It has also often been said that it is the most Alsatian town in Alsace! Without going over the top with superlatives, Colmar undoubtedly remains an exceptional town due to the wealth and variety of its historical and architectural heritage. The capital of central Alsace, situated near Germany and Switzerland between the Vosges and the Rhine, Strasbourg and Mulhouse, the town offers visitors an exciting glimpse of 1000 years of European history. Besides, with its 67,000 inhabitants, Colmar retains a ‘country town’ atmosphere which contributes so much to its charm. Wonderfully preserved from the ravages of time, its homogenous historical centre is classed as a ‘protected area’ and has benefited from careful restoration and ongoing improvements for more than 20 years. The « little Venice » is the name given to the course of the Lauch in Colmar. This name probably came from the original line of the houses on both sides of the river, which serves the southeast of the city. This district starts behind the Koïfhus, goes through the fishmonger’s district and to the bridges Turenne and Saint-Pierre. It is therefore at the beginning of the Krutenau, whose etymology refers to places of market gardening on the outskirts of the towns. The fishmonger’s district is the place where most of the professional fishermen and boatmen of Colmar lived. They were in a powerful corporation. The caught fishes were stored in fish ponds or sold in the fishmonger’s district. In 1706 a huge fire destroyed more than forty houses in the district.
Tübingen Small steps, narrow alleys and pointed gables shape the silhouette of old Tübingen on the way up to its castle. The Swabian university town of 86,000 inhabitants and 27,000 students combines the flair of a lovingly restored medieval centre of town with the colorful bustle and typical atmosphere of a young and cosmopolitan students’ town. Numerous sidewalk cafes, wine taverns and cozy students’ pubs, special shops, restaurants and taverns invite visitors to stroll around and to pause here and there. Taking a boat trip in a famous „Stocherkahn“ – the boat exclusive to Tübingen navigated by a long wooden pole – offers a scenic view of the picturesque Neckar waterfront with the famous Hölderlin Tower. Idyllically located on the northern bank of the Neckar River is Hölderlin Tower – the emblem of Tübingen. The yellow tower with the pointed roof is flanked by a weeping willow and in the summer the Stocherkähne (punts) dock below it. The tower was built in the late 18th century on the base of an old tower that was part of the city fortification.. The path from the Neckar Bridge to Hölderlin Tower leads over the “Zwingen”, or the space between the inner and outer city walls of the city. Hölderlin’s work holds a special place in German literature between the classical and the romantic periods. The building that the tower belongs to was burnt to the ground in 1875 and was rebuilt to its original form. Today there is a literary memorial and a museum in Hölderlin Tower.
Bremen Bremen’s history stretches back 1,200 years. You can still see traces of yesteryear around the city today, most notably with the UNESCO World Heritage town hall and Roland statue. Bremen, the archetypal Hanseatic city on the Weser, wears its mercantile heritage with pride. Legacies of the city’s trading past in and around the market square include the Hanseatic Cross and the Schütting, the seat of the chamber of commerce. Bremen is a city of fables and fairytales, best known for the famous Bremen Town Musicians. But they aren’t the only legendary locals – there’s also the seven lazy brothers, the original Heini Holtenbeen and the infamous poisoner Gesche Gottfried, who still leads people to spit on an inconspicuous stone by the cathedral to this day. Bremen, the cosmopolitan city on the Weser river, looks back on years of history. Although the grand old buildings around the market square betray its roots as an ancient trading centre, Bremen has the feel of a thriving city on the up. The town hall and Roland statue are among Bremen’s main historical attractions. They have enjoyed UNESCO World Heritage status since 2004 – as “an exceptional testimony to civic autonomy and sovereignty”. Bremen’s Weser-Renaissance-style town hall with its magnificent facade is one of the finest civic buildings in Germany. It is the only European town hall built in the late Middle Ages that has not been destroyed or altered, managing to survive in its original form over the centuries.
Copenhagen Copenhagen has attractions and sights to suit every taste and interest – and most of them are within walking distance. The three most famous attractions in the city are most likely the more than 100-year old amusement park Tivoli Gardens, the statue of The Little Mermaid, and the freetown of Christiania. But Copenhagen has a lot more to offer. With a history that dates back to 1043 the city is full of historic landmarks, significant buildings and interesting sights and museums. Be sure to visit Christiansborg Palace and enjoy a lunch or a cold beer in Nyhavn. At Langelinje Pier you will find one of Copenhagen’s most famous tourist attractions: The sculpture of The Little Mermaid. 23 August 2013 she turned 100 years old. Unveiled on 23 August 1913, The Little Mermaid was a gift from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen to the City of Copenhagen. The sculpture is made of bronze and granite and was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale about a mermaid who gives up everything to be united with a young, handsome prince on land. Every morning and evening she swims to the surface from the bottom of the sea and, perched on her rock in the water, she stares longingly towards the shore hoping to catch a glimpse of her beloved prince. Carl Jacobsen fell in love with the character after watching a ballet performance based on the fairy tale at the Royal Danish Theatre in Copenhagen. The brewer was so captivated by both the fairy tale and the ballet that he commissioned the sculptor Edvard Eriksen to create a sculpture of the mermaid.
Stockholm Stockholm is one of the most beautiful cities in northern Europe. The list of things to do in Stockholm could be made endless and there are more than a hundred attractions to choose from. Center of this romantic city is Gamla Stan. Gamla Stan, the Old Town, is one of the largest and best preserved medieval city centers in Europe, and one of the foremost attractions in Stockholm. This is where Stockholm was founded in 1252. All of Gamla Stan and the adjacent island of Riddarholmen are like a living pedestrian-friendly museum full of sights, attractions, restaurants, cafés, bars and places to shop. Gamla Stan is also popular with aficionados of handicrafts, curios and souvenirs. The narrow winding cobblestone streets, with their buildings in so many different shades of gold, give Gamla Stan its unique character. Even now cellar vaults and frescoes from the Middle Ages can be found behind the visible facades, and on snowy winter days the district feels like something from a story book. Västerlånggatan and Österlånggatan are the district’s main streets. The city wall that once surrounded the city ran inside these streets along what is now Prästgatan. In the middle of Gamla Stan is Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm. Stortorget is the central point from which runs Köpmangatan, the oldest street in Stockholm, which was mentioned as early as the fourteenth century. There are several beautiful churches and museums in Gamla Stan, including Sweden’s national cathedral Stockholm Cathedral and the Nobel Museum. The largest of the attractions in the district is the Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in the world with over 600 rooms. In addition to the reception rooms, there are several interesting museums in the Palace, including the Royal Armory, with royal costumes and armor.
Tallinn Tallinn’s winding narrow streets and Medieval charm fascinate even the most non-romantic traveller. It doesn’t matter in which period of the year you are visiting, there’s always a chance for a little romance in Tallinn. A brief walk in the UNESCO-listed Tallinn Old Town inspires everyone from history buffs and architecture admirers to boutique-shoppers. Picturesque cobbled streets like Lühike Jalg, Vaimu or St Catherine’s Passage are bound to set the right mood for a romantic city break. For an unforgettable experience, be sure to visit Kohtuotsa viewing platform, as this is the perfect place for watching the sun rise. If you’re visiting Tallinn in winter, be sure to get on the ice at Harju Ice Rink, or at least walk by and get the magical feeling. Harju ice rink is just a few steps away from the vibrant Adamson-Eric Museum, as well as the cosiest cafes and restaurants in Tallinn. Don’t just spend your time in the Old Town as there are romantic discoveries aplenty in Kadriorg and Pirita. Have a walk in Kadriorg Park where the beautiful Swan Pond and Japanese Garden are a must. For those of you with a literary interest, find out about one of Estonia’s great writers and his lovestory at the Eduard Vilde Museum. Not far from the park and the museum, lies the Pirita promenade. This offers by far the most spectacular views of Tallinn’s rocky shoreline, with the Old Town cityscape in the distance. If the promenade is a great place for a romantic walk all year round, then summer brings out some seasonal delights. For example, Tallinn Botanic Garden, near to Pirita Beach, and Tallinn TV Tower, is a great destination for relaxation. It’s a nice spot for picnics or just for a stroll through the colourful rose garden.
Trakai Trakai is one of the world’s most magnificent castles. Occupying one of more than 20 small islands in the middle of Lake Galve, it rests regally while sailboats and swans glide over the glassy water. On a warm summer day, there is no better way to experience that storybook setting than on a romantic sail on the lake. Historical capital of ancient Lithuania fascinates with its wooden architecture, medieval castles, and magnificent scenery and at the same time –a modern face of the town. Trakai is a well-preserved historical village with more than 5,000 residents, and one of the biggest tourist attractions in the country with a one million visitors each year. Trakai cannot be imagined without the residencies of Lithuanian Grand Dukes living earlier in the Island and Peninsular Castles, karaites ethnography as well as sacred exhibitions. The pride of Lithuania, Trakai is the only castle in all Eastern Europe, situated in the island. At the end of the 14th-15th century Trakai castle was a summer residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. The medieval character of Trakai is used by numerous knights’ clubs that regularly organize their tournaments. The staging of ancient battles adds more effect to the Trakai castle. А tourist sometimes has a feeling that he is somewhere on a Medieval battlefield. In general Trakai exploits its historical heritage quite skillfully periodically organizing not only competitions for the knights in their armor but also different mass shows.
Riga The biggest metropolis in the Baltics, Riga perfectly blends timeless tradition and cutting edge cool. Drop in and get energized by a city with surprises on every road and rooftop. A Nordic blonde with a fiery heart, there’s much more to Riga than meets the eye. In its 800 years of turbulent history, everyone from German knights to Swedish kings and Soviet commissars have left their footprints, and today Latvia’s capital is an exciting European metropolis at the crossroads of eastern and northern Europe. Riga’s astonishing skyline tells the story, as the timeless Gothic spires in the Old Town mingle with the fantastic facades of one of the world’s richest collections of Art Nouveau on the grand boulevards. Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage site of cobblestones and breathtaking river views, as well as Europe’s Wifi capital with almost 1,000 spots to get online for free. Riga is an adventure for the taste buds too. The enormous Central Market is a treasure trove of earthy sausage, cheese and black bread, smoked fish, and much more. Sample the goods on a picnic in one of Riga’s lovely parks, or enjoy a hearty meal in many great value bistro and cafes. To wash it down, sample intriguing local beers in the brew pubs along hipster strip Miera iela, or a cocktail with the mysterious Riga Black Balsam in fun-filled bars across town.
Saint Petersburg One of the world’s most beautiful cities, St. Petersburg has all the ingredients for an unforgettable travel experience: high art, lavish architecture, wild nightlife, an extraordinary history and rich cultural traditions that have inspired and nurtured some of the modern world’s greatest literature, music, and visual art. From the mysterious twilight of the White Nights to world-beating opera and ballet productions on magical winter evenings, St. Petersburg charms and entices in every season. One of the most visited sights is the Winter Palace which was from 1732 to 1917, the official residence of the Russian monarchs Situated between the Palace Embankment and the Palace Square, adjacent to the site of Peter the Great’s original Winter Palace, the present and fourth Winter Palace was built and altered almost continuously between the late 1730s and 1837, when it was severely damaged by fire and immediately rebuilt. The storming of the palace in 1917 as depicted in Soviet paintings andEisenstein’s 1927 film October became an iconic symbol of the Russian Revolution. In 1905, the Bloody Sunday massacre occurred when demonstrators marched toward the Winter Palace, but by this time the Imperial Family had chosen to live in the more secure and secluded Alexander Palace at Tsarskoe Selo, and returned to the Winter Palace only for the most formal and rarest state occasions. Following the February Revolution of 1917, the palace was for a short time the seat of the Russian Provisional Government, led by Alexander Kerensky. Later that same year, the palace was stormed by a detachment of Red Army soldiers and sailors—a defining moment in the birth of the Soviet state. Today, the restored palace forms part of the complex of buildings housing the Hermitage Museum.
Peterhof is one of the world’s most famous palace-park ensembles. The Peterhof Museum Complex is one of the most popular museums not only in Russia, but in the whole world. Even a few hours here are enough to feel the spirit of history, which still lives on and breathes in this magnificent place. As a former residence of the Russian monarchs, Peterhof brings together the finest achievements in national and international culture. This unique complex was created by outstanding architects, decorators and sculptors, whose spectacular works of art slot perfectly into the natural beauty of the coastal landscape. Peter the Great planned Peterhof as the residence of a sea king. This was to be his incarnation of Russia as a great European power, with a foothold on the shores of the world’s oceans, capable of competing with the finest Western courts — above all, with Versailles. Today, the museum complex stretches across five hundred hectares of territory, embracing Strelna, Peterhof and Oranienbaum. Dotted with sparkling fountains, the Lower Park and Upper Gardens flow effortlessly into the shady and romantic glades of Alexandria, forming a unique fusion of regular and landscape parks. Every day, more than twenty museums — vastly different in their origins, ideas and contents — delight visitors with exciting new discoveries and the joy of their handsome treasures. The Peterhof Museum Complex is rightfully regarded as the “capital of fountains.” Included in the state register of most valuable cultural objects of the Russian Federation, Peterhof now bears the proud title of one of the “Seven Wonders of Russia.”
Moscow One of the first stop for visitors in Moscow is Red Square. It has beenfor centuries, the heart and soul of Russia. Few places in the world bear the weight of history to the extent that Moscow’s central square does. From the 16th Century St. Basil’s Cathedral - one of the most famous pieces of architecture in the world - to the constructivist pyramid of Lenin’s Mausoleum, Red Square is rich in symbols of Russia’s turbulent and intriguing past. From medieval citadel to modern power centre, the Moscow Kremlin has played a dominant role in Russian life for over centuries. A potent symbol of two mighty imperial cultures - that of medieval Muscovy and that of the Soviet Union - the Kremlin is at once fascinating and foreboding, a mixture of lavish opulence and austere secrecy, and its eclectic mix of architecture reflects these paradoxes and seismic cultural shifts. Today, the Kremlin remains as alluring and enigmatic as ever. Two thirds of the citadel territory are closed to visitors, but the remaining third contains enough treasures to occupy several days of sightseeing. Not only one of the largest and most interesting museums in the world, but also the official residence of the President of the Russian Federation, the Kremlin is the perfect place to begin your tour of Moscow.
Belgrade The Metropolis of south-east Europe is full of romantic places and one of the most popular for couples of all ages is Kalemegdan. The Belgrade Fortress changed and developed throughout the centuries, it saw many armies, was the field of many battles, it witnessed the brutality of the conquerors and the courage of the tireless defenders of the city. It was the place where Belgrade started to develop. The Fortress was built in stages, during the lengthy period between the 1st and 18th century, from a Roman castrum, through a Byzantine castle and the remains of the medieval capital of the Serb Despotate, all the way to an Austrian-Ottoman artillery fortification. The complex consists of the fortress itself, divided into the Upper Town (Despot’s Gate, Sahat kula - Clock Tower, Roman Well, Statue of the Victor), Lower Town (Nebojša Tower, Amam – Turkish bath, Gate of Charles VI) and the Kalemegdan Park, home to busts of important persons from Serbian history, science and culture. The Belgrade Fortress offers an exciting view of the confluence of Sava and Danube, of New Belgrade and Zemun. The Kalemegdan Park contains the “Cvijeta Zuzorić” Pavilion, the Grand Stairway, the zoo, children’s park and a number of monuments and sculptures, several sports courts, a museum, a café and a restaurant.
Sremski Karlovci Sremski Karlovci is small town in Serbian region of Srem, j ust 60 km north of Belgrade. It is one of the most beautiful places in Serbia, important for history and culture of the country. Patriarchy residence is one of the most monumental building from the 19th century in Serbia. It represents the combination of baroque and pseudo-renaissance styles. The Museum of the Serbian Orthodox Church, so-called Treasury, is situated within the palace. Nowadays, the Residency accommodates the seat of Srem Diocese and it serves as the summer residency of the Serbian patriarch. Chappel of Peace is exceptional monument was built in 1817 on the site where famous Karlovci Peace Treaty had been signed between the countries of the Christian Alliance and Turkey in 1699. During the negotiations, for the first time in the history of the world diplomacy, the round table was used officially. Vienna War Council decided to replace the original conference hall that had been made of wood with the present chapel. Fountain Four Lions was built in 1799 in honour of finishing the first public system of water supply in Karlovci. It was renovated in October 2007 due to Miodrag Radulovacki, MD, PhD, who was the pupil of Karlovci Grammar School. A legend is saying that everyone who drinks water from this fountain will eventually return to Karlovci and stay here for good.
Salzburg Salzburg offers romantics a wonderful setting in which to get married or enjoy a honeymoon. Though May is famous as the “month of love”, you will see white wedding carriages rolling through the streets of the city at all times of year. Lovers from around the world are saying “I do” here in Salzburg, and who could argue with that: Schloss Mirabell’s magnificent Marble Hall, the Angel Stairway and Mirabell Gardens don’t only deliver unique photo motifs, they also turn a big day into an unforgettable experience. And afterwards, the magical City of Mozart and the countryside which surrounds it, home to the Salzkammergut region and the Salzburg Alps, invite the happy couple to stay for a truly romantic honeymoon. When it comes to Salzburg, there’s definitely no cause for last-minute nerves: nowhere else provides a more stylish setting in which to say “I do” than does this City of Mozart. Even as you take the walk from the inner courtyard of Schloss Mirabell up the marble staircase, you already sense the splendor of the rooms awaiting you. Thousands of couples from around the world have trodden these stairs in recent decades, just to be able to stand side-by- side before the marriage registrar in the most beautiful wedding venue in all of Central Europe. And if, after a few days in the city, you feel yourself drawn out into the country, you will find countless idyllic hideaways and romantichotels in the Salzburg Lake District, the Salzkammergut and up in the mountains.
Gmunden If you want perfect set for your wedding there is no better place then Salzkammergut lake area in central part of Austria. Occupying the entire northern bay of Lake Traunsee, Gmunden offers everything you expect from a proper Salzkammergut town: Pretty castles, churches and lakefronts with promenades, as well as 19th century villas with wooden porches and balconies. No wonder that Gmunden is popular both with tourists and domestic visitors from Austria. It has been so for a long time: Once the Viennese aristocracy had discovered the Salzkammergut in the 19th century, it was a matter of years until the international jetset followed.
Gmunden and its scenic surroundings were frequently visited by such distinguished guests as Nikolas, the Tsar of Russia, Wilhelm the Kaiser of Germany as well as Franz Schubert, Johannes Brahms and Arnold Schoenberg, the composers of Vienna. At its peak, Gmunden rivalled its main competitor Bad Ischl in terms of celebrities - today, both towns are still similarly popular as day-trip destinations. With a tourist record like that, it is not surprising that the town centre of Gmunden can be rather crowded during the main season in the summer.
Hallstatt The picturesque village on the lake with the same name owes its existence to the rich salt deposit of salt in the mountain of Hallstatt. 7000 years ago, as the prehistoric humans from Hallstatt began to take the salt from the salt mine who would of guessed, that this little village would give its name to a period in history – the Hallstatt period (800-400 BC). Rich findings in Hallstatt and the upper valley of Hallstatt gave this village international recognition; even today discoveries are still made in the salt mountain of Hallstatt. Among the most beautiful places of interest are the oldest salt mine in the world and the ossuary in Hallstatt, a romantic boat ride on Lake Hallstatt, a trip to the breathtaking cave world in Obertraun and a visit to the Lake Gosau with the mighty Dachstein glacier. Additionally, Bad Goisern is popular in the summer with hikers and bikers. In winter guests are lured in by the ski areas of Dachstein West in Gosau and the Ski and Freeride Arena in neighboring Obertraun with perfect slope conditions. In 1997. Hallstatt was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. This culturally historic region is now known as the Dachstein Salzkammergut-region. Amongst Hallstatt’s numerous “treasures” are the World Cultural Heritage Museum, the archeological excavations, the catholic church with its mountain grave yard and “Charnel House”.
Luzern Luzern is one of the most romantic cities in Switzerland. There are particularly many sights in a small area in Lucerne. The Chapel Bridge with the Water Tower is the landmark of Lucerne and the most photographed monument in Switzerland. Constructed in first half of the 14th century as a part of the city’s fortifications and named after St. Peter’s Chapel, which is located nearby. The paintings that were added in the 17th century illustrate scenes of Swiss and local history, including the biographies of the city’s patron saints, St. Leodegar and St. Maurice. «The dying Lion of Lucerne» is one of the world’s most famous monuments. It was carved out of natural rock in memory of the heroic deaths of the Swiss mercenaries at the Tuileries in 1792. Mark Twain described the Lion of Lucerne as the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world. Jesuit church is the first large sacral Baroque church in Switzerland; constructed in 1666 by Father Christoph Vogler for the Jesuits. The vault was redecorated in the mid-18th century. The original vestments of Brother Klaus, a famous Swiss patron, are stored in the inner chapel. Luzern is also the city of museums. The Swiss Museum of Transport is Switzerland’s most-visited museum and showcases the fascinating history of transport, its achievements and its vehicles. Art lovers will take great delight in the Rosengart Collection and the Lucerne Museum of Art. The Glacier Garden has fascinating kettle basins – giant rock formations that date from the last Ice Age. The Bourbaki Panorama, for its part, is one of the world’s last-remaining paintings in the round, and the Richard Wagner Museum occupies the building where the composer himself once lived.
Spiez Nestled between hills and vineyards and dominated by a magnificent castle, Spiez on Lake Thun is an inviting destination indeed. Above the lake the Niederhorn Range stretches as far as the Bernese Alps and forms a magnificent panorama. With a high quality of life induced by the mild climate and abundance of sunny days, Spiez is an ideal starting point for exploring a wide range of popular destinations in the Bernese Oberland and the Valais. A visit to the Spiez Outdoor Pool and Lake-Shore Swimming Cove, a cruise on Lake Thun or maybe just a stroll along the beautiful lake promenade all make for hours of relaxation. And for the more energetic holiday maker there’s no shortage of fun either – options include kilometres of hiking and biking trails, tennis, mini golf, a fitness course, fishing, a skating rink, windsurfing and sailing. Culture vultures will be transported back to days of old on a visit to the medieval castle with its thousand-year-old castle church. The art and history of winemaking in Spiez are featured in the museum of viticulture and local history. And to finish up your day of culture try visiting one of the many cultural events on offer, including concerts and the theater.
Bergamo Bergamo is one of the hidden secrets of Italian tourism. Old city is the most romantic place of Bergamo. Before you get lost in the blue of the Alps that fade into the sky, your gaze will meet a wonderful and impressive terrace overlooking the plains and the mountains,which have surrounded artistic and cultural treasures on the hill for centuries. Bergamo greets visitors with its Venetian Walls. Surrounded by rivers and lush, verdant valleys, crossed by paths that widen to Parco dei Colli, the area’s largest park, the city looks like a lounge filled with art, culture and nature, with a fascinating and complex history just waiting to be shared with others. Also known as the “Città dei Mille”, or City of the Thousand, in honour of those 180 Bergamo youths (young men) who departed from here in 1860 to participate in the expedition “of the thousand” led by Garibaldi that resulted in the unification of Italy, Bergamo’s streets bear signs of its ancient history, a story that’s still in the making. Among museums, works of art and splendid natural surroundings, cobbled streets and buildings with beautiful facades, religious and contemporary artistic treasures and masterpieces of taste and wine, events that are held throughout the year: the “upper and lower” city reveals a mixture of pleasant surprises and unexpected encounters, such as those with Gaetano Donizetti, the great composer of international renown, Bartolomeo Colleoni, the Bergamo leader who served under the Republic of Venice and Lorenzo Lotto, among the most famous Italian Renaissance artists who lived and worked in Bergamo for over a decade.
Bled With immense natural beauty, Bled, together with its surroundings, ranks among the most beautiful alpine resorts, renowned for its mild, healing climate and thermal lake water. The beauty of the mountains reflected on the lake, the sun, the serenity and the fresh air arouse pleasant feelings in v isitors throughout the year, 6 km long trail around the lake is just long enough for simple recreation (walks or bike rides). This trail also leads to sightseeing rises – Castle Hill and nearby hills with splendid views. Take a rest on one of the benches and enjoy the view on the lake with an island and the Karavanke mountains in the distance, and observe the ducks and swans playing on the surface of the lake. Rowing is a very popular sports activity in this area as Bled can pride itself with a long tradition of the rowing sport and with hosting international rowing competitions. During the summer visitors can cool down in the lake or enjoy on the Castle beach which each year attracts a great number of tourists. In extremely low winter temperatures the surface of the lake freezes. The Bled Culture institute boasts a rich tradition in organising wedding ceremonies at the oldest castle in Slovenia. Perched on a cliff high above the lake, Bled Castle and its castle wall form a perfect backdrop for the cherished memories of your wedding day. The view from the castle overlooking Bled and the Gorenjska region is unforgettable, as is the wedding day spent in the enchanting company of the Lord and Lady of Bled Castle.
Interrail Interrail is the most romantic way of discovering Europe. Imagine snow-capped Alps, green fields of Benelux dotted with windmills, mediterranean sandy beaches and Balkan forests flashing by winding train tracks. And imagine all of that discovering with your love on a romantic European trip. If you are solo, dont worry, Interrail is perfect way of meeting locals. Founded in 1972, Interrail has since become a symbol of unlimited rail travel throughout Europe. Providing access to more than 250.000 km of interconnected railways, Interrail now offers its customers the opportunity to travel in 30 different countries with an even greater number of transport organisations. Over the last 40 years Interrail has established itself as a provider of a unique travel experience associated with adventure, freedom and flexibility. Interrail provides a gateway to the geographical, historical and cultural richness of Europe, giving both new and seasoned travellers the chance to immerse themselves in the different cultural fabrics that make Europe such an exciting place to explore. All of this is accomplished with just one Pass, which also offers additional benefits such as discounted ferry travel, attractions and accommodation. Interrail Passes are aimed at European and Russian residents and are available as a Global or One Country Pass. After originally being aimed at young adventurers, the Interrail Pass has evolved into an accessible, and unique tourism product used by over 250,000 European travellers of all ages each year.
Offering unlimited travel in either first or second class across 30 different countries, the Global Pass provides an extensive amount of choice to any traveller. This Pass is perfect not only for people who want to travel around several countries, but also for those who have not yet defined their itinerary. From the awe-inspiring landscape of Scandinavia to the secluded beaches of Greece − with the Interrail Global Pass the possibilities are endless! The Interrail Global Pass is available as a ‘Continuous’ Pass or a ‘Flexi’ Pass. Continuous Passes offer unlimited travel for 15 days, 22 days or 1 month and are suitable for those, who wish to travel widely but with maximum flexibility. Flexi Passes, on the other hand, offer unlimited travel for either 5 days within a 15 day period, or 7 or 10 days within a 1 month period and are ideal for travellers who already have a fixed itinerary.
One Country Passes are ideal for travellers who are interested in exploring a specific European country. With an Interrail One Country Pass, up to two children aged 11 years and younger can travel for free with a paying adult. Available for either first or second class, there are currently 28 different One Country Passes available under the Interrail portfolio. The ‘Benelux Pass’ in particular entitles Pass holders to travel around Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. In 2015, Interrail also introduced the Greek Islands One Country Pass which enables travellers to use Attica Group’s ferry services between Italy and Greece and a number of Greek islands. Available as a ‘Flexi’ Pass, the One Country Pass validity options include 3, 4, 6 or 8 days within a 1 month timeframe.