Best Cities For Expats In Southern Europe part 2 – Part one is here.

Best Tourist Attractions for Expats in Southern Europe

Expats who decide to move abroad and settle in a new country usually do so because they were offered a job or an opportunity unavailable in their home country. Southern Europe, particularly the Mediterranean, is very popular with expat groups.

Some might even call it a “touristy hotspot” where tourists from all over the world flock to bask in the sun and enjoy its many treasures, such as fresh seafood and beautiful beaches. Surprisingly enough, though, there are so much more than stunning coastlines and long sandy stretches of white sand in southern Europe for expats who move to this area.

There is plenty to do and see, and traveling around the region will only make expats feel at home. In this section, we have compiled a list of the best tourist attractions for expat to visit. Without much talk, take a look at the list below and start planning your trip today.

Pompeii, Italy

Pompeii, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, was preserved under ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius since it was not fully inhabited at that time. This ancient Roman city is another must-see when in Italy.

Rome, Italy

Rome, another best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is the capital of Italy and it is world-famous for its history and culture. Also known as the Eternal City, it has hundreds of monuments, museums galleries to visit. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Vatican City

Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, is an independent city-state of world-renowned where the Pope lives and works. The sheer size of Vatican City makes it one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, was built on the slopes of Mount Tibidabo. It is a melting pot of different cultures, making it an amazing place to visit. The city has an extensive array of famous structures and landmarks throughout its metropolitan area.

Seville, Spain

Seville, another best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is the capital of Andalusia. Often described as “paradise on earth” because of its mild climate and beautiful landscape, it is an excellent place to live. Several festivals take place here throughout the year, which makes it a popular destination for tourists.

Paris, France

Paris, the best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is considered by many to be one of the most romantic cities in Europe and the world. It is home to some of the world’s finest cuisine and wine which makes it an important place to visit when in France.

Monaco

Monaco, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, is an independent city-state that borders France and shares its northern border with Italy. It is known for its famous casino, glamorous atmosphere, and historic royal family; it has also played host to major international conferences and events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Southern Europe

What’s unique about Southern Europe?

Southern Europe is a collection of nations, which are characterized by their distinct culture, history, and language. Some of the most famous nations in Southern Europe include Italy, Spain, and Greece, among many others. There are also many less famous nations, which are still worth mentioning because they offer interesting experiences to the people who come to them.

What should I know before moving to Southern Europe?

Southern European nations are very diverse. It is, therefore, necessary to research the country one will be moving to before making any plans. Researching a country can help one understand its culture and what’s expected of them as residents or tourists.

Where is good for starting a business?

Many nations in Southern Europe provide excellent opportunities for starting up a business. For instance, Portugal is an excellent nation for starting up IT companies because it has one of the fastest internet connections in the world.

Southern European nations are also suitable for people looking to start tech companies because tech-related jobs are very popular due to how common technology is in that part of the world.

Where should I go to find a job?

Southern European nations are full of tourist attractions. It is, therefore, no surprise that there are many businesses related to tourism in the region. People looking for jobs should consider searching for employment opportunities related to their degree or skillset within the tourism sector.

How do people dress in Southern Europe?

Southern European nations have the reputation of being very fashion conscious. This means that what people wear is not dictated by societal norms but by trends and personal preferences. In fact, the latest fashion trends from around the world are commonly found in Southern Europe.

Is it safe living in Southern Europe?

Of course, safety is a key concern when living in Southern Europe. However, for the most part, it is rather safe to live in this region. This makes it a great destination for people who want to live a more peaceful life away from major conflicts and issues in other parts of the world.

Conclusion

Southern Europe is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months. The warm weather, history, and culture make it a desirable place to visit for many people worldwide. For those looking to move abroad, this ultimate guide is all you need. Read again to understand the benefits of moving to this part of the world.

Best Cities For Expats In Southern Europe part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

The southern part of the European continent is a popular destination for expats.  This is no wonder as it offers a lot of great opportunities and benefits, especially for those people who love to live in a Mediterranean climate.

Whether you’re looking for better work opportunities, more sunshine, or just a place to settle down and raise a family, you should consider immigrating to Southern Europe. There are many amazing cities in the southern part of Europe, each with its own unique character.

However, we’ve compiled this article not only to explain the best cities for expats in Southern Europe but also to explore the benefits. Have you been surfing the web to get the right information about living in this part of the world? Look no further as we’ve got you covered on this platform.

This list is an attempt to compile some of the best places for expats. If you’re considering making Southern Europe your home, do yourself a favor and visit our list of thirteen amazing Southern European cities that are perfect for living. That being said, the choice is yours, and we encourage you to take a look at all cities on our list, as they’re all worth visiting.

Top 7 Reasons Why Southern Europe is Suitable for Expats

There are many reasons you may want to move abroad, but whatever the case may be, there is always a destination that makes more sense for an expat. If you do not know where to go and you would like to live in a warmer place with a lower cost of living, then Southern Europe is what you might need. Here are the top seven reasons you should consider living in Southern Europe.

Low Cost of Living

Southern Europe is a trendy destination for expats worldwide because it has a lower cost of living when compared to other European countries, which would be a lot more expensive for expats. In Southern European countries, the standard of living is also higher than that of other countries.

Great Climate

Southern Europe has great weather all year, which means that there is one less reason why you shouldn’t consider living in this part of the world. The climate is similar to what you would find in the Caribbean islands and Florida, making it a top choice for expats.

Perfect Location

The locations of the southern European countries make it easy for expats to travel around Europe, and even though it is not such a big continent, if you wanted to go somewhere else, it would be very difficult. Another great thing about living in this part of the world is that since it has such temperate weather, you would not have to worry about extreme cold or heat.

Relaxed Lifestyle

Southern Europe is also different because it offers a relaxed lifestyle for expats who are not exactly fond of big cities or crowded areas. This region has lots of small towns and cities that people can explore, making it an excellent choice for those who are used to a more laidback lifestyle.

Great Travel Destination

The last reason why living in southern Europe would be suitable for expats is because it makes an excellent travel destination for those who are not residing there all year round. The weather is usually pretty good, allowing exploring the beautiful beaches and other great outdoor activities.

Historical Locations

There are also plenty of historical locations that people can visit when living in the southern European countries, which makes it even more appealing to expats who want to explore everything Europe has to offer. The regions might be different from what you are used to, but there is something for everyone here, and it is definitely worth trying out.

Business Opportunities

Business opportunities are definitely something that expats should consider when moving to a new destination. In Southern Europe, there are plenty of business opportunities for those willing to go there. Since this part of the world is doing pretty well right now, it would be an excellent choice for entrepreneurs who want to expand their business.

Best Cities for Expats in Southern Europe

Southern European countries are known for their ‘sunny’ climate and friendly locals. But this region is also home to some of the best cities in Europe for expats, with employment opportunities, quality of life, ease of settling into the country, and overall value. So which is the best? We’ve compiled the thirteen popular cities in southern Europe to help you decide. Without further ado, take a look at it now.

1.    Málaga

This wonderful city located in the south of Spain is one of Europe’s hidden gems and a fantastic place for expats who love spending time outdoors and exploring new places. The mild weather and beautiful beaches, as well as a low cost of living and great opportunities for people who love the seaside lifestyle, should be enough to convince you that Málaga is an excellent choice.

In addition to having a lot to offer to those looking for better work opportunities, the city also offers economic support for startups from other countries. This makes it a perfect place for young expats to start their businesses.

2.    Barcelona

Located in the northeast of Spain, this wonderful city has so much to offer that you can hardly name it all.  One thing is certain – there’s something for everyone here, and it is no wonder why so many people choose Barcelona as their place to settle down. Whether you’re a sun seeker, an outdoor enthusiast, or looking for better work opportunities, Barcelona has it all.

In addition to this, the city offers great public transport and low cost of living, giving people from other countries a chance to really get a feel for the local culture while still being able to afford a comfortable living in this wonderful city by the sea.

3.    Valencia

Located in the east of Spain, Valencia is another great place for expats.  If you’re looking for a sunny climate and lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, then Valencia should definitely be on your list! The mild weather here allows people to spend much more time outdoors, so if you love cycling or hiking, Valencia is perfect for you.

Valencia also offers great work opportunities and its cost of living is much lower than in some other European cities. This makes it a wonderful place for expats who are starting their own business or are looking for better career opportunities.

4.    Ljubljana

Located in the northwest of Slovenia, Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most underrated cities.  It has everything to offer for people looking for a beautiful city with great nightlife, amazing food, and culture that will allow them to feel like they’ve stepped into another world.

The capital of Slovenia has one of the most amazing public transport systems in Europe and is known for its low cost of living. This makes it an excellent place to live for expats looking for a comfortable lifestyle while also having access to great education and healthcare opportunities.

5.    Athens

The capital of Greece is a trendy destination among expats from all over the world. This city has it all – great food, friendly locals, and wonderful weather throughout the year (except for summers), which allows you to explore new things and make the most of your time while living here.

Athens is perfect for people who love spending their time outdoors since there are so many incredible places in this city that allow you to go on a different adventure every time. The low cost of living and great work opportunities are also reasons why so many expats choose Athens as their home.

6.    Madrid

Spain’s capital is a wonderful place to live, especially if you’re an expat from the US.  The cost of living here is also very affordable, making it possible for people from other countries to start their own business or invest in one that already exists with minimal risks.

In addition to offering great work opportunities, Madrid also has many places where you can go to spend your free time better. The city has something for everyone, which is why it attracts so many expats from all over the world.

7.    Dublin

Located in the east of Ireland, Dublin has a lot to offer to find a good place to settle down in Europe.    The city’s weather is mild all year round, allowing people to take advantage of the beautiful environment and make the most of their time living in Dublin.

Dublin has excellent public transport and a low cost of living, which makes it a wonderful place for expats who are looking for better career opportunities while also having access to great education and healthcare opportunities.

8.    Nicosia

Located in the south of Cyprus, Nicosia is a wonderful city attracting more and more expats from all over the world every year thanks to its beautiful weather, great food, and very reasonable cost of living.

In addition to this, Nicosia has a vibrant history which makes it an excellent choice for people who are looking for a city with lots of things to do and see. Nicosia is especially great for families thanks to its low crime rate and friendly locals, making it easy for parents to provide their children with the best quality of life that they deserve.

9.    Belgrade

Belgrade is a very beautiful city attracting more and more expats every year with its friendly locals, great nightlife, and low cost of living.   It’s a very dynamic city which offers something for everyone who is looking for a wonderful place to live in Southern Europe.  If you’re looking for an affordable city where you can enjoy a high quality of life, then Belgrade is the place for you.

10. Lago di Garda

Lago di Garda is an incredible place that allows people to enjoy all of Italy’s beauty without having to spend a fortune.  It’s also one of the safest places in Italy, which makes it perfect for families who are looking for comfort and security when they move abroad.

If you enjoy spending time outdoors, then Lago di Garda is perfect for you – there are so many incredible places to explore near the city, and the lake itself offers so much life and beauty. There’s also a variety of delicious food and friendly locals, which makes Lago di Garda an excellent choice for anyone who loves spending their time outdoors as well as those who think that food is the key to happiness.

11. Sarajevo

The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina is an incredible city that offers a world-class quality of life for a very affordable price.  In addition to this, Sarajevo has some of the nicest people you will ever meet, which makes it a great place for expats to live in.

Sarajevo is also an up-and-coming city that has lots of opportunities for expats who are looking to grow professionally while living here. Finally, the low cost of living makes Sarajevo a wonderful place for young families with children since there are so many things to do daily, and everything is so affordable.

12. Rome

Rome may be one of the most expensive cities in Italy, but it still offers residents a very high quality of life.  Expats who live in Rome will enjoy spending their time outdoors since there are lots of great places to visit within a short distance from the city.

Rome also has good work opportunities for people who want higher salaries, so if you’re looking to save money for your retirement while also enjoying a great quality of life in Italy, then Rome is the perfect city for you. The people here are very friendly, and there’s always something going on, making it a wonderful place to live in.

13. Larnaca

Larnaca is another amazing place that deserves a spot on this list since it offers expats the chance to live in Cyprus at a very affordable cost. In addition to that, Larnacians are some of the nicest people you will ever meet, which makes a living here all the more enjoyable.

Moreso, Larnaca has a lively nightlife and excellent weather, which means that you can save money for the future while also enjoying life now. Larnaca is perfect for anyone looking to save money and maintain a high quality of life without compromising on anything.

Best Cities For Expats In Central Europe part 2 – Part one is here.

Best Cities for Expats in Central Europe

Europe is a prime destination for expatriates who want to experience different cultures and ways of living. But which European cities provide the best quality of life, high salaries, and a safe environment?

While it’s true that most people would rather live in London or Paris, those places are notoriously expensive and stressful. If you want to become part of the European community while still enjoying a comfortable life, you might be better off somewhere else – but where?

To answer that question, we’ll be looking at ten Central European cities. And when it comes to whether or not they’re safe to live in, one only needs to take a look at the Global Peace Index and Europe’s crime rate. According to the GPI, here are the best cities for expats in Central Europe

Prague

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, which was voted the second safest country in Europe in 2013 by the U.K.’s Telegraph. That makes sense considering that it has one of the lowest murder rates in Europe, with only 10 murders per 100,000 people (compare that to New York City).

The Czech Republic also has plenty of other attractions, including historical buildings and gothic churches. And it’s much cheaper than living in wealthier Western European countries – rent, for example, is extremely affordable.

Czech citizens are also highly educated, with over half the population attending college. This means that if you’re looking for a highly skilled workforce, you might want to check out Prague.

Warsaw

Warsaw is the capital of Poland and is also centrally located in Europe, making it a very easy place for expatriates to travel around on business or vacation. It’s one of the safest cities in Europe – only ten murders per 100,000 people – and rent is extremely affordable.

Although Poland isn’t one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, most people are able to find jobs with ease. Between January and September of 2019, only around 47,000 Poles were unemployed. And if you’re looking for a highly skilled workforce, Warsaw has its fair share of college graduates too.

Vienna

The Austrian capital, Vienna, is another rather pristine place that’s not too expensive to live in. It has a high employment rate with only around 7 percent of the population out of work. And it’s one of Europe’s safest cities, with only 10 cases of murder per 100,000 people each year.

However, don’t let these statistics fool you – Austria is one of the wealthier countries in Europe. That being said, it still isn’t as expensive to live there since rent is inexpensive compared to other Western European cities.

Budapest

Hungary’s capital city, Budapest, was ranked by Mercer’s 2017 Cost of Living Survey as one of the “most expensive cities in the world.” However, most Hungary is relatively affordable to Western Europeans looking to settle down.

Though it’s not as safe as other countries on this list (with around 17 murders per 100,000 people), but Budapest still has extremely low unemployment, and most Hungarians are literate and well-educated.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is also one of Europe’s safest cities, with only 16 cases of murder per 100,000 people annually. It was ranked as the European Union’s “most livable city” in 2010 by Monocle magazine due to its high standard of living.

Denmark has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, partly due to its healthy and nutritious diet. It also has a very educated population, with around 85 percent of people attending college. And as far as rent goes, it’s cheaper than living in other Western European cities.

Helsinki

Finnish cities tend to be relatively safe with low crime rates, and Helsinki is no exception. It has a particularly low murder rate at only 12 per 100,000 people. Finland is also ranked as one of the best countries in the world for quality of life, partly due its excellent education system.

Around 73 percent of Finns have attended college, and its literacy rate is about 100 percent. And since Finland has a relatively large land area, there’s plenty of wilderness to explore if you’re bored with city life.

Berlin

Germany’s capital city, Berlin, has perhaps one of the most interesting histories of all European cities – from being divided during the Cold War to being the center of the notorious Nazi regime. But these days, it’s a very safe place – Berlin has the lowest homicide rate in Germany.

Berlin has also become rather trendy lately thanks to its various cultural events and thriving startup scene. It ranks relatively high on several livability indexes, including Mercer’s 2017 Quality of Living Survey, which ranked it as the ninth-best city in the world to live in. Most importantly, however, it’s a very affordable place to live, with rent much cheaper than other Western European capitals.

Brussels

Brussels is home to one of the most important political centers in the world, as well as NATO and the European Union. It also has one of the highest employment rates in Europe, with only 7 percent of its population unemployed.

Belgium is perhaps one of the best countries you can live in as far as education goes. The literacy rate there is a whopping 99 percent, and it’s ranked as having the second-best school system on the planet. It also has a pretty healthy diet, though it does have a high rate of obesity. But the main reason this city is so great? It has affordable rent.

Ljubljana

Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana, was named one of the greenest cities in Europe by Greenpeace because of how environmentally sustainable it is. It also has a low murder rate at only 11 per 100,000 people.

Slovenia’s health care system is ranked as the best in the world – it spends more money on its citizens’ health than any other country. Slovenia even has free access to abortion and emergency contraception for all women over 18 years old. And because it’s such a small country, its cost of living is also relatively low.

Bratislava

Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia, is perhaps the most affordable place to live on this list – it ranks as having one of the most affordable rental markets and property taxes in Europe. Plus, Slovakian food is healthier than the Western European diet.

Slovakia has a much lower homicide rate at only 10 per 100,000 people, and it also has a decent health care system. The literacy rate there is surprisingly high – 99 percent of Slovaks can read and write. And if you’re looking for a country with a rich historical background, Slovakia is an excellent choice – it has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Central Europe

What is the weather like in Central Europe?

Well, most of it sits on the border between temperate and continental climate zones. This means that temperatures do vary across countries, but they are usually cool enough for you to need a coat most of the time, even in summer. If your fun idea includes having sunshine at least some of the time, this is not really the place for you.

What is the food like in Central Europe?

Pretty good! Germany, in particular, is known for its beer and sausages. You can get both pretty much anywhere in the region. As for the rest of it, there are some countries where you might be disappointed. But take heart – even if your national cuisine didn’t make it to the region, you can still probably find it in one of the neighboring countries.

How expensive is Central Europe?

For most people who live outside the region, Central Europe is quite reasonably priced. There are some more expensive places to visit. Still, on average, your travel expenses will be lower than they would be for other European destinations – some of them even rival Asian countries in that respect.

Conclusion

Living in Central Europe can be an enriching experience. The varied history, culture, and gastronomy have all made the countries of Central Europe into fabulous destinations for those wishing to live abroad. However, it’s essential to know the best cities suitable for you to live in. You can refer to this guide for more.

Best Cities For Expats In Central Europe part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Europe is a great place to settle as an expat. Large cities throughout the continent compete for record populations. However, if you’re looking for a truly international experience, then the best cities for expats in central Europe have got your name written all over them.

These cities are not just international in focus, but their expat communities are the largest. Many of them have smaller populations than some major US cities, but there’s usually a vibrant sporting or cultural scene. The best city for expats is also very likely to be one of the safest places in Europe.

Start your European adventure in Budapest, Hungary. This capital city may be small, but it’s a global hotspot for culture and cuisine. There are more than fifty museums in the area, including some world-class galleries. When you’re not looking at art, Budapest has some incredible natural attractions nearby, like lakes and mountains.

If you love opera or classical music concerts, then you’re in luck; Budapest has many top-flight performers and venues. This city is not just a fantastic place to visit, but it’s also great for families – the Budapest Zoo is one of Europe’s best.

Moving on now, Prague in the Czech Republic is one of the most iconic cities in Central Europe. Today, we have compiled some of the best cities in Central Europe. Not only is that, but we will walk you through some cultures and the benefits of relocating to this part of the world. Does that sound interesting? Read further!

Overview of the Central Europe Cultures and Traditions

Geographically, Central Europe is the primary region of the European continent. This label is appropriate, considering it contains several countries sometimes assigned with developing regions due to their history and current-day problems.

However, all is not bad in these countries! These areas have developed immensely over the years. Amongst the economic development, they have also seen increases in art, science, and culture.

If you are interested in learning about countries considered to be part of Central Europe, then this article is for you! Keep reading to become better acquainted with these Central European cultures and traditions.

Some Religious Traditions Remain Very Popular

For example, there is the tradition of lighting candles on Christmas Eve to help guide Mary and Joseph to their new home. This ritual takes place in many homes across Central Europe, especially in Poland. Another custom (and less widespread) is eating fried carp.

On Christmas Eve, a whole fried fish would be placed on the table and blessed by a priest. Each family member would take a piece of the fish and eat it while saying “thank you” to whoever provided them with carp that year. It was believed that whoever ate this fish had good health for the upcoming year.

Festivals Are Incredibly Popular In Central Europe

There’s an important tradition in Poland surrounding St. Mary’s Day, which takes place on the 25th of July each year. It is celebrated with a special bread known as ‘chleb świętomarciński,’ created using flour, water, and salt – ingredients that must be blessed before they are used to make the bread.

People buy this particular bread and take it to the cemetery, where they leave pieces on the graves of their family members. Also found in Polish culture is Wianki – a festival around May each year. It’s a springtime celebration and involves people throwing wreaths made from flowers into rivers or lakes.

A Huge Focus on Food

Central Europe is known for its hearty dishes! Most people enjoy eating potatoes, dumplings, and cabbage as part of their main meals. One dish that can be found in almost every town across Poland is Barszcz – a soup made from beetroot which has been prepared many different ways over the years.

To make it, the beetroot is cut into pieces before being fried with onion. Once it’s tender, the mixture is covered in water and left to simmer for about an hour.

People Enjoy Visiting Local Pubs

Though beer has been trendy in Central Europe since the Middle Ages, the region has also become well known for its pubs and breweries. In the Czech Republic, people end up in a pub once they’ve left the office at the end of the day.

Craving a sweet treat? You can try kolache, a delicious pastry stuffed with fruit or cream cheese that has been popular since WWII. If you’d rather save room for dinner, you could ask for schnapps to take your kolache down with.

Many Languages Are Spoken Throughout the Region

You may think that Central Europe is a single country, but it actually consists of many independent states. Each one has its language – Czech, Hungarian, Polish, Slovakian, and Slovenian are all commonly spoken.

Best Tourists Attractions Available in Central Europe

Tourism in Europe has been on the rise for a number of years, and this trend doesn’t seem likely to change in the near future. People from all over the world come to visit majestic cities, historical landmarks, and unique natural features.

The countries in Central Europe are often overlooked by tourists who instead flock to crowded streets and beaches in southern Europe or opt for the relative affordability of destinations in the east.

While these places all hold their own charm and beauty, Central Europe is home to a number of hidden gems – waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path tourist attractions available in central Europe, this list will help you get started.

1)    Museums of Budapest

Budapest is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe, if not the world. Tourists come for its beautiful architecture, great food, and vibrant nightlife. But there’s something they don’t know about – literally beneath their feet.

A massive network of tunnels built by prisoners during World War II stretches under much of central Budapest. The locals call it the “mole people” metro, and it’s a popular tourist attraction these days. Visitors can take guided tours of the underground system to experience what life was like for prisoners of war, or they can just wander through some of the open tunnels on their own.

2)    Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

Atatürk is the founder of modern Turkey. His famous mausoleum lies in a forest about an hour outside Ankara, surrounded by green fields and wildflowers. People from all over Turkey come to pay their respects at this tomb, so foreign tourists know less. But if you want to see a truly unique place that very few people know about, this is it.

3)    Castle of Hrad Kulm

Hrad Kulm is situated among picturesque mountain peaks in the Czech Republic. The castle has stood here for centuries, providing shelter to everyone from medieval knights to World War II refugees. Today visitors can climb up to the castle itself and admire the beautiful views offered by its location.

4)    Trosky Castle

Trosky is a massive 14th-century fortress located on the border of the Czech Republic and Poland. It’s one of those places that don’t just offer some great tourist attractions – it simply offers, period! The majestic building looks as if it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Rumor has it that locals can see far-away Warsaw from the highest tower.

5)    The Bridge at Mostar

The bridge was built in the 16th century to connect two sides of the city, divided between Bosnians and Croatians today. It became famous during the 1990s war thanks to its destruction and the famous photo of a woman crying over the loss. It has since been rebuilt and is now one of Mostar’s top tourist attractions, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6)    The Abbey at Westmalle

The abbey is in northern Belgium, surrounded by beautiful green fields and grazing cows. This is where they make the famous Westmalle Trappist beers, but you don’t need to be a beer connoisseur to appreciate the atmosphere here. Not only is it extremely peaceful and relaxing, but the abbey itself has been beautifully preserved over time as well.

7)    Tropie Water Tower

The Tropie Water Tower in Belgium is an art deco monument that looks like something straight out of a spy movie. It’s located in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by green fields and cows. There are several water towers just like it all around Europe, but this one is probably the most famous – if only because it’s so hard to find.

8)    Ice Hotel

Luxury hotels are one of the top tourist attractions available in central Europe, but why just settle for a stay anywhere when you can have a night at the world’s first permanent ice hotel? The Ice Hotel is located in Sweden and offers simply fantastic views of Lapland.

It has been rebuilt every year out of completely new, fresh snow and ice. The materials are sourced locally, so this is definitely a unique experience worth trying at least once in your life!

9)    Wieliczka Salt Mines

Wieliczka Salt Mines have been around since the 13th century – which makes them one of the oldest attractions on our list. They were officially closed for business in 1996, but you can still take an underground tour of this massive complex. The winding tunnels are only lit by candlelight, giving them a mystical atmosphere that’s hard to describe.

10) Bled Island

Bled Island is located in Slovenia, and it’s famous for three things: one of the most photographed kindergartens in the world, a church that offers exceptional views of Lake Bled and its surroundings, and a tiny island called Pokljuka. This is one of the most tranquil spots on our list – all you can hear are church bells ringing in the background and birds singing everywhere.