Learn About Ancient Greece on European Vacations
During your European vacations, look back at the past with a tour to ancient Greece. At the heart of Athens is a massive structure called Hadrians Arch which spans an ancient road leading to the Acropolis and a complex of structures on the eastern side of the city. This complex included the Temple of Olympian Zeus, said to have been built to celebrate the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, to honor him for his many significant contributions to the city. Drive from Athens through the fertile plains of Boeotia to reach Delphi. On the slopes of the magnificent Mount Parnassus you will find the center of the ancient world. Here you will be able to view the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythios and the Temple of Apollo. Marvel at the wealth of the ancient times with a visit to the Treasury of the Athenians. Visit the museum where you can learn about ancient Greek masterpieces such as the world renowned bronze Charioteer.
Festive European Vacations in Barcelona
European vacations to Barcelona are always a blast!September marks the arrival of the Festes de la Merce. What started as an intimate religious parade has grown into a weeklong party to celebrate Catalan culture. Enjoy entertaining performances and exhibitions, free concerts by local musicians and hip hop artists, dazzling fireworks displays on the shore, and breathtaking air shows on the beachfront. Kids are not left out, as activities targeted to different age groups are also available. Continue the celebrations with a taste of local cooking. For a delectable selection of Catalan classics, head to Cinc Sentits. House specialties include the mouthwatering suckling pig with apple compote, slow-braised pork belly on gingerbread, Catalan float coca bread with foie gras, and lamb cutlets with porcini dust. Or live dangerously and order all four dishes!Leave room for scrumptious desserts such as apple sorbet, maple quesada, or a plate of cheese paired with fine wine.
Immerse in Art with Nice European Vacations
Immerse yourself in art by visiting the museums of Nice on your European vacations. The Muse dArt Moderne et dArt Contemporain features contemporary art with its huge permanent collection of Pop Art, New Realism, and pieces from the Nice School. Galerie Jean Renoir highlights new, young local talent, and is free. Matisse fans will be treated to a huge collection of his paintings, engravings, drawings and personal effects at the quaint 17th century villa called Muse Matisse. The Muse National Message Biblique Marc Chagall is a stark contrast, its paintings with biblical themes an assault on the senses displayed in a bare structure that belies the color within. After touring the lovely museums of the city, head to the charming churches of Nice. Russian Orthodox influence shines prominently on the architecture of Cathdrale Saint Nicolas, while Chapelle de la Misricorde is a striking example of French baroque religious architecture.
Discover Exciting Prague on European Vacations
Hop on a plane to Prague to start off your European vacations. Clubbing is a unique experience in this Eastern European city, with binge drinking and bar-top stripping a common sight. Locally produced Czech beers are regarded as a national treasure. Gambrinus is the most popular, but not necessarily regarded as the best. That distinction was given to Kozel's Medium when it was named the Best Czech Beer by the Research Institute of Brewing & Malting Awards. Locals, though, will tell you Pilsner Urquell is the best they attribute it to the water quality in the city, which does make a difference in the brewing. Clubbing aside, Prague has many wholesome attractions to offer. The Prague Orloj, a medieval astronomical clock, has been in the town square since 1490. From 8 AM to 8 PM, every hour on the hour, wooden saints emerge from the clocks trap doors, while below them, Greed, Vanity, Death and the Turk lecture you on medieval morality. While waiting for the show to start, kill time by trying to figure out the zodiac figures on the clock face!
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