Are you new to traveling to Europe and feeling unsure about where to begin?
Look no further! In this blog post, we will guide you through four must-visit destinations that are perfect for newbie travelers.
Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, trying delicious cuisine, or immersing yourself in vibrant cultures, these destinations have something for everyone.
Paris, France: The City That Symbolizes Love
If you’re new to traveling, visiting Paris should be a must-see destination on your travel itinerary. This romantic city is a dream destination for many, with its iconic landmarks, delicious food, and rich history.
One of the top attractions in Paris is the Eiffel Tower, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city from the top. Take a romantic stroll along the Seine River, or explore the city’s many museums and art galleries, such as the Louvre Museum, where you can see famous works of art like the Mona Lisa.
One recent trend in Paris is the rise of eco-friendly tourism. More and more tourists are choosing to explore the city by bike or on foot rather than relying on cars or buses. Plus, many hotels and restaurants are making an effort to reduce their carbon footprint by using locally sourced, organic ingredients and implementing sustainable practices.
According to a recent study conducted by WTTC, Paris has been identified as the world’s most dominant city destination. With a Travel & Tourism sector valued at almost $36 billion in 2022, the French capital has the highest direct GDP contribution to the city compared to any other city in the world. This highlights the city’s importance and influence in the tourism industry.
This statistic reinforces the idea that Paris is a must-visit destination for any traveler, especially those seeking a romantic getaway. With its rich cultural history, world-renowned cuisine, and stunning landmarks, the city of love and romance continues to captivate visitors from all over the world.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: The Pearl of the Adriatic
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Europe, Dubrovnik should definitely be on your travel radar. The picturesque coastal town in Croatia is commonly known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” due to its breathtaking natural beauty and significant historical background.
As a newbie traveler, Dubrovnik is a great destination to explore, with its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals.
The Old Town in Dubrovnik, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination for tourists. Here, you can explore ancient city walls, narrow streets, and beautiful architecture. For Game of Thrones fans, this is also the location of many iconic scenes from the series.
Dubrovnik’s gorgeous coastline, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea are also famous. You can take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
If you want to travel to Croatia, it’s worth considering the recent tourism statistics for this country. According to the Croatian Bureau of Statistics, the country’s accommodation establishments welcomed 229,000 tourists and recorded 602,000 overnight stays in January of this year. This represents a significant increase of 32.4% in tourist arrivals and 19.1% in overnight stays compared to January 2022.
As a tourist, one of the main concerns could be the currency exchange rate. Fortunately, for those planning to travel to Dubrovnik, the country has recently adopted the Euro as its official currency. According to Always Croatia, a company providing private tours, Croatia officially adopted the Euro on January 1st, 2023, after joining the European Union in 2013.
This new currency adoption will likely make things easier for tourists visiting Dubrovnik, as they will no longer need to worry about exchanging their currency for the local Kuna. As of this writing, the exchange rate is $1 to €0.93.
Rome, Italy: The Eternal City
Rome, Italy, earns its nickname as the Eternal City for valid reasons. Steeped in history and culture, Rome offers visitors a unique blend of ancient architecture, art, and cuisine.
The city has 280 fountains and over 900 churches, showcasing the city’s significant cultural legacy. The Colosseum and Vatican are just a couple of the iconic landmarks that have played a crucial role in shaping history. Rome offers an abundance of attractions to pique the interest of any visitor, whether it be ancient history or contemporary art.
Rome is renowned for its exquisite cuisine, with a wide range of delectable dishes such as traditional pizza and pasta, delectable gelato, and espresso. With plenty of excellent restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors, you’ll have many options to choose from and explore the authentic flavors of the city.
According to Statista, the COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on Rome’s tourism industry, resulting in an 86% decrease in international arrivals to the city’s tourist accommodations during the first year of the crisis.
Despite a slight improvement in inbound arrivals in 2021, with around 1.6 million visitors, the numbers were still much lower than before the pandemic. However, Rome continues to be an eternal city that has stood the test of time and has a rich history that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: The City of Canals
Amsterdam, the Netherlands’ capital, is renowned for its striking canals, lively nightlife, and remarkable buildings. It is a versatile city that caters to the interests of all travelers, be they art enthusiasts, history buffs, foodies, or those who enjoy leisurely walks and sightseeing.
One of the top attractions in Amsterdam is its network of canals, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore the canals by taking a boat tour or even renting your boat or kayak.
In Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum is a crucial destination to explore, as it showcases the most extensive assortment of works by the famous Dutch artist. You can admire his famous paintings, such as “The Sunflowers” and “Starry Night,” as well as learn about his life and artistic process.
If you’re a foodie, Amsterdam won’t disappoint. The city is known for its delicious stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles), fresh herring, and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs). You can sample these local specialties at street markets, food halls, and traditional Dutch cafes called Bruin cafes.
According to Statista, Amsterdam was the top destination for domestic travelers in the Netherlands in 2022, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This indicates that Amsterdam’s tourism industry has rebounded strongly despite the pandemic, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
As a first-time visitor, you can take a boat tour along the canals or explore the city’s museums and galleries to get a taste of its rich history and culture.
Europe is a vast and beautiful continent with countless breathtaking destinations to explore.
As a newbie traveler, it can be overwhelming to choose where to go. However, Paris, Dubrovnik, Rome, and Amsterdam are four must-visit cities that offer unique experiences and attractions.
Keep in mind the recent updates while planning your trip, and immerse yourself in the local culture to make unforgettable memories.
