Europe has countless treasured traditions that have survived modern times. As we’ve all had to postpone our travels because of the pandemic, here’s a reminder of some fun that awaits us in Europe when this pandemic is over!
Italy’s Gondolas
One of the most well-known European traditions is gliding through Venice in a gondola. In the early Middle Ages, hundreds of horses traversed Venice’s narrow bridges and alleyways. In the 14th century, they were banned and the noble class embraced watercraft as a more respectable form of transportation. By the 1800s, there were 10,000 boats floating through the city’s canals. Today, you can choose the type of experience you want. If you want to experience the Grand Canal, then hire a gondola near the Doge’s Palace or Rialto Bridge. For a more romantic experience on quiet, romantic side canals, walk into Venice a bit more and hire the gondola there. A serenade isn’t always included, so speak to your gondolier ahead of time is that is something that you want. Browse escorted Italy tours.
Spain’s Flamenco
In Spain, feel the pulse of the Andalucia region through its fast-paced flamenco performances. The men do most of the machine-gun footwork, while the women concentrate on graceful turns. The accompanying guitarists, with their lightning-fast strumming, are considered some of the best in the world. Sevilla is considered to be the art form’s epicenter; wander the city’s backstreets to find a bar where locals break out in impromptu performances almost nightly. Check out Spain tour packages
Portugal’s Fado
Another late-night musical tradition is Portugal’s fado music. Fado, which means “fate,” is a uniquely Portuguese style of music with soulful songs that reflect the country’s bittersweet relationship with the sea; many of these ballads tell of sailors who never returned to port. Lisbon’s Bairro Alto and Mouraria districts are great areas to catch some informal singing with Coimbra being another popular city for fado. Explore Portugal tours
Bike Ride in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has stunning canal-side homes, lots of parks, small museums, and great restaurants. It’s a city that is easy to get around and bikes are available to rent. If you don’t feel comfortable on your own, there are plenty of bike tours where a guide will show you around. If you are up for an adventure, there is a cycle route that starts at the railway stations in Zaandam, where you can rent a bicycle, and go through the Zaanstreek region, the historical windmill mecca, and the wetland recreation area Het Twiske. Choose from budget to luxury Holland tours
Enjoy Wine Tasting in France
There are plenty of wine regions in France. From cave wine cellars to castles & outdoor picnics, make sure you enjoy wine tasting while traveling through France. The Champagne region is world-renowned due to its production of sparkling wines. Dom Perignon, Bollinger, Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Tattinger all have vineyards in this region. The Burgundy region which stretches from Lyon to south of Paris, is known for some of the country’s best and most expensive wines. Pinot Noir & Chardonnay are the most popular wines. Make sure and visit the towns of Beaune & Dijon. In the Bordeaux region, they are known for merlot & cabernets. The Loire Valley which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a beautiful area to visit. Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet France and Chenin Blanc grapes are grown in this region. Alsace is known for Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Gewerztraimine, Muscat & Cremant d’Alsace (sparkling white & rose wines.) This area is great for biking and hiking. You’ll pass Medieval castle ruins, quaint villages, Roman abbeys, vineyards & great local wine bars. Browse France tours
Even if you’re more of an off-the-beaten-path traveler, consider these cultural mainstays.
