Adventuring Europe

Безымянная страница

Population - 127,000

Area - 67 sq. km

Language - France

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 396 m(1299 ft)

Website - annecy.org

Annecy is a town in eastern France in the Rhône-Alpes region. It is the historic capital of Upper Savoie located on the shores of Europe's cleanest lake. Annecy is one of the most beautiful medieval cities in France the historical center of which is riddled with charming canals. Thanks to them the city is often called "Alpine Venice".

Annecy is located in the east of France on the shores of the lake of the same name 40 km from Geneva. The city is located in a picturesque area at the foot of the northern Alps and occupies a strategic position between France, Italy and Switzerland . The climate here is temperate. Summer is warm and sometimes it can be hot. The winter is cool with low temperatures.

Historians believe that the settlement on the site of the modern city has existed since the time of the Romans. In the 10th century Annecy obeyed Geneva and in the early 15th century - the Savoy dynasty. With the development of Calvinism the city became the center of Counter-Reformation. During the French Revolution the Upper Savoy was conquered by France. In 1815 after the restoration of the Bourbons it was returned to representatives of the Savoy Dynasty. Finally Annecy and this historic region became owned by France in 1860.

Annecy has a charming old town that is considered one of the most beautiful in France. It is full of charming canals with colorful Piedmont-style houses decorated with flowers, arcade streets with boutiques and small beautiful bridges.

Lake Annecy - one of the most picturesque lakes in Europe which is also considered the cleanest. This turquoise pond is located in the picturesque alpine foothills and is beautiful at any time of the year. The lake has two beaches - Plage la Brune and Plage Municipal.

Ile Palace is one of the most famous landmarks of Annecy which forms the most recognizable image of the city. The building is located on an island on the Tiu River and was built in the 12th century. This building has long been a prison. Now you can see the architecture and culture exhibits as well as view the old prison cells.

Annecy Castle is another famous attraction that rises beautifully over the old town. The oldest part of the castle is the tower de la Rhein which dates from the 13th century. From the 17th century to the first half of the 20th century, soldiers' barracks were located here. Now the castle is a museum with exhibitions on art and history of the region.

St. Pierre's Cathedral is a 16th century Renaissance-Gothic cathedral that was completely completed only in the 19th century. The church contains a number of interesting works of art and objects in the Baroque style. The cathedral is adjacent to the archbishop's palace of the 18th century.

Pon de Amour (Lovers Bridge) is a pedestrian bridge of the early 20th century with beautiful lake views. It is believed that if lovers make a kiss in the middle of the bridge they will be together for life.

1. Annecy(France)

Безымянная страница

Population - 62,000

Area - 32 sq. km

Language - Italian

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 2 m(7 ft)

Website - viareggio.lu.it

4. Viareggio(Italy)

The town of Viareggio is located on the Tuscan coast of the Ligurian Sea. The natural environment of the city is incredible: sea, many green hills and pine forests with bicycle paths and of course palm trees.

The town is suitable for holidays to those who like everything to be in the highest category. It is here that the world's most expensive yachts are made and locals and tourists alike can taste the money. Enjoy the Viareggio and those looking for nightly coastal get-togethers. Viareggio is full of chic nightclubs many of which have already became famous. The city is also popular with surfers and sailing enthusiasts. And of course shopping - Viareggio has many shops and shopping malls where you can dress to the latest Italian fashion.

The beaches in Viareggio are sandy, soft and infinitely long - it is not without reason that the city is considered the most popular resort in Tuscany. And most importantly they are all awarded the Blue Flag. This means that the sea and the coast here are guaranteed to be clean and of the highest European standards.

Beach areas are traditionally divided into private areas. The day on the private beach costs about €15 and the public ones cost around €3. You will have to lie on the sand and there will be less fun around but in general the Viareggio Municipal beaches are decent enough and with a good smooth access to the water. If you want to be with the sea almost alone without the crowds of tourists look out for the beach Lecciona which is territorially part of Leccionia Natural Park and is located on the outskirts of the city. The beach is wild without any infrastructure, sun loungers and other paid pleasures. But it is a piece of true nature. The sand here of course is not cleaned daily but the sea is still very clean.

Private beaches like in other cities are generally divided between coastal hotels and not too different - they are all comfortable. To save on the visit purchase a subscription for a week or more. Housing on the first coastline in Viareggio will cost around € 70-100 per day but unless the sea is out of the window it is quite realistic to find cheaper options at about of € 30 per night.

The largest and oldest tourist attraction in the city is the tower Matilda(La torre Matilde) which was erected in the XVI century. According to legend this place once had a castle and after its destruction in the Middle Ages from the wreckage of the same castle a tower was built. In the past it served as a defensive structure then a prison. Nowadays many cultural events are held here.

Just five kilometers from Viareggio is the town of Torre del Lago where the famous Italian composer Giacomo Puccini lived and worked. Now the Villa Puccini(Puccini Villa) where the composer wrote his most famous works "Turandot" and "Madame Butterfly" is a museum. Here you can learn more about the life and work of the composer which the Italians are proud of.

One of Tuscany's major summer events is the Puccini Opera Festival organized in the Torre del Lago right next to Viareggio. This year the festival will be held in July and August and the lucky ones who get it will be able to see the brightest opera performances by Giacomo Puccini. The open stage in the warm Italian air and under the starry evening sky puts on real opera shows - the atmosphere is magical!

Безымянная страница

Population - 230,000

Area - 689 sq. km

Language - Finnish

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 20 m(62 ft)

Website - tampere.fi

6. Tampere(Finland)

Tampere is a town in southern Finland in the province of Pirkanmaa. It is the industrial capital of the country and one of the major cultural centers. Tampere is a modern city that is considered one of the most attractive places to live in Finland. It was founded in the 18th century 170 km north of Helsinki and has long been one of the largest industrial cities in Scandinavia. Today Tampere is a large center for information technology, research, education, sports and business.

Tampere is located in the southwestern part of the lake region in Western Finland. The city is located between two lakes - Nyasyarvi and Pyhäjärvi. The Tammerkoski River divides Tampere into two and connects the two lakes. The city climate is continental. Winter in Tampere is quite cold and snowy and summer is short and cool.

Tampere was founded in 1775 by the Swedish king Gustav III as a commercial settlement of Tammerfors which after four years received the status of a city. In the 19th century like all Finland it was part of the Russian Empire. During this period it became a large industrial city which even received the nickname Manchester of the North.

Tampere was one of the most advanced cities in Scandinavia. The first pulp and paper mill was launched here as well as the first electric lighting in all Scandinavian countries. Tampere remained a major industrial center until the mid-20th century. Subsequently heavy industry declined and the city switched to high-tech manufacturing and research while the old factory buildings were transformed into offices, museums and art objects.

The city center is the oldest part of Tampere, with almost all attractions and shops. The Old Town is famous for its historic 19th-century buildings and brick factory buildings which give it a special charm.

Finlayson is a collection of historic Scottish Textile Factory buildings by James Finlayson located in northern Tampere. This factory was founded in 1820 and has long been one of Scandinavia's most important industrial sites. The oldest building here dates from 1837.

Tampella is an old factory founded in 1844. Initially a small blast furnace was built here which later grew into one of Tampere's largest industrial plants. The Tampella area is now a popular destination for culture and business. Many factory buildings have been converted into offices and museums. Also located here is the highest factory pipe (104 m) which belonged to a steam power plant.

The Old Church is the oldest building in Tampere, built in the 15th century long before the city was founded. The church has no heating and operates only during the warm season.

Alexander's Church is a beautiful neo-gothic red brick building. The church is surrounded by a small park with old tombstones. The cathedral is a large Finnish-style stone church designed by architect Lars Sonk and built in 1907.

Безымянная страница

Population - 235,000

Area - 159 sq. km

Language - Polish

Currency - Polish Zloty

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 317 m(982 ft)

Website - czestochowa.pl

7. Czestochowa(Poland)

Częstochowa is a city in the south of Poland in Silesian Voivodeship and the most important religious center of the country. First of all the famous clear mountain monastery which houses a special icon of the Black Madonna of the 14th century. Czestochowa is famous for its sacred monuments and is considered the national treasure of Poland.

Czestochowa begins a wonderful route known as the Eagle's Nest Trail. It is a powerful system of defensive outposts built on the hills of Silesia to protect the city of Krakow.

Czestochowa is located in southern Poland on the Warta River 150 km from Krakow. The city is located at the junction of Krakow-Czestochowska and Woznicka-Wielnia heights with hilly terrain and temperate climate.

Czestochowa was first mentioned in 1220 in the documents of the Bishopric of Krakow. In the 14th century settlement rights were granted to the settlement. During this period Czestochowa experienced a rapid development. In the 16th century Polish King Sigmund I granted the city numerous privileges. In 1583 Czestochowa was plundered by the troops of Maximilian III of the Habsburg dynasty.

In 1655 the Jasnogorsky Monastery was besieged by the Swedes. After the second division of Poland Czestochowa was included in the Russian Empire. After World War I the city became part of the Polish state again.

The nearest international airport is in Katowice (about 60 km from the city). Krakow Airport is also relatively close. Czestochowa has rail connections with Warsaw, Wroclaw and Katowice. You can get here by bus from most Polish cities as well as Bratislava and Vienna.

Jasna Gora was founded in the 14th century and is one of the spiritual centers of Poland. Since the 15th century the monastery has attracted many pilgrims who want to worship the valuable relic - the medieval icon of the Black Madonna.

Alley of the Blessed Virgin Mary is the central avenue of Czestochowa and one of the most popular places in the city. It was built in the 19th century and has a length of 2 km. It is a long alley with restaurants shops coming from Jasnogorsky monastery.

Czestochowa's interesting place is the Old Market Square. It is in fact a peer of the city and an important market in the Middle Ages. Unfortunately, the architecture of the square was destroyed during the Napoleonic wars, so most modern buildings date back to the 19th - 20th centuries.

Безымянная страница

Population - 38,000

Area - 59 sq. km

Language - Albanian

Currency - Albanian lek

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 1 m(3 ft)

Website - sarande.al

8. Sarande(Albania)

Sarande is a coastal town in southern Albania located in a picturesque bay between the mountains and the Ionian Sea. Named after a medieval Orthodox monastery located nearby. Saranda is considered the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. The city is surrounded by beautiful beaches, natural attractions and ancient monuments.

Sarande is often called the "southern gateway to Albania". The city is located in the far south of the country opposite the Greek island of Corfu. Saranda has a sunny Mediterranean climate and warm sea.

Saranda was founded in ancient times by the Greeks or Illyrians called Onhesm. In the 6th century the settlement was overthrown by the Ostrogoths. In the Byzantine period the city was referred to as Ankiasmus. By the 12th century it had been abandoned and its former name had been forgotten. Later the settlement was named after the ancient monastery of Ayia Saranda.

This is a typical Modern Mediterranean resort. Of interest are the Orthodox Church and the Medieval Synagogue, the Castle on the Hill and the Ethnographic Museum. A popular activity here is the promenade along Hasan Tahashini Boulevard - an elegant and long promenade.

Xamil is one of the best beach destinations in Albania. It is considered the most beautiful beach in the country, often called the "Ionic Pearl". Xamil is located in a picturesque bay with three small islands. The beach is famous for its clear turquoise sea.

Monastery The Forty Saints Monastery is a medieval Byzantine monastery which gave its name to the modern city. He is currently in a state of disrepair.

Lecursi is a 16th century castle located on a hilltop with beautiful city views. From here you can even see the island of Corfu.

Not far from Saranda are the ruins of Butrint. Butrint - the ruins of an ancient Greek city founded in the 4th century BC by the Greek colonists from the island of Corfu. In ancient times it was one of the most important settlements in the Balkans achieving maximum prosperity and prosperity during the Byzantine period. His most interesting sights are the ancient theater of the 3rd century BC, the ancient temple of the same period and fragments of the fortress wall.

The ancient ruins of Butrint are rightly considered the true pearl of the Adriatic. Some say the settlement was founded by Trojans. But no evidence of this has yet been found. For many centuries Butrint was a large fortified trading town until it was abandoned in the late Middle Ages.

Безымянная страница

Population - 3,000

Area - 2 sq. km

Language - Slovenian

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 16 m(52 ft)

Website - portoroz.si

11. Piran(Slovenia)

Piran is a town in Slovenia on the Istrian peninsula. Together with the city of Portoroz it is one of the main resort centers of the Slovenian Adriatic. Piran is one of the most picturesque and beautiful coastal cities of Slovenia located at the very edge of a small peninsula that crashes into the Adriatic Sea. Its old city is also one of the best preserved historic centers of all the cities of the Adriatic, a true jewel of Venetian architecture. Piran will give you the wonderful atmosphere of old winding streets, the charm of sunsets and the comfort of restaurants with fresh seafood and local wine.

Piran like almost all of Istria was inhabited even in the Evening Age. In its territory lived the Illyrians who were not only farmers, hunters and fishermen but also traded in piracy and robbery. The Piran Peninsula was incorporated into the Roman Empire in the 2nd century BC.

In the 5th century with the decline of the Roman Empire and the invasion of the Slavs Piran and other cities of Istria were fortified. But this did not save the conquest of the Franks in the 8th century. Slavic tribes settled here as well. In the 10th century the city became part of the Holy Roman Empire.

From the 13th to the 18th centuries Piran was part of the Venetian Republic. Venetians have largely defined the architecture of the Old City. In 1797 the city was annexed to Austria-Hungary. As part of the Habsburg state the city was ceded before the First World War. In 19-20th Century It was a flourishing spa town with a great market and transport connections. The first trolley line in the Balkans was launched here.

After the First World War Piran like all of Istria became part of Italy. After World War II the city and almost all of Istria moved to Yugoslavia. Since 1991 Piran is part of the independent Republic of Slovenia.

The climate of Piran is humid subtropical. The weather is very warm in the summer, the winter is cool and rainy. Snow and frost are rare. Fogs are possible in winter.

The closest international airport is located in Portoroz . Other airports nearby are Trieste, Pula, Ljubljana. Piran has no rail link. The nearest train station is in Koper.

One of the main attractions of Piran is the old town. The winding old streets and charm of Venetian architecture will definitely not leave you indifferent.

On the main square you will be greeted by a statue of the most famous person in Piran-Giuseppe Tartini. It is a composer and virtuoso violinist who was born in a house a few steps from the square.

Another landmark of the city is St. George. It is a Catholic temple built on a Venetian-style hill. Church sources date back to the 12th century. If you go up the bell tower you can enjoy the beautiful views of Piran.

Безымянная страница

Population - 10,000

Area - 46 sq. km

Language - Serbian

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 2 m(7 ft)

Website - visit-tivat.com

12. Tivat(Montenegro)

Tivat is a small town in Montenegro on the Adriatic Sea. Located 10 km from Kotor and surrounded by excellent beaches. Tivat has changed a lot lately. Here they built a modern seafront and luxury marina. All this has a beneficial effect on the tourist potential of this small seaside town.

Tivat is located on the Bay of Kotor at the foot of the Vrmac ridge. The city has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters.

Tivat was founded in the 3rd century BC by the Illyrians. In the Middle Ages the outskirts of the city were owned by the nobles of neighboring Kotor. From 1420 until the end of the 18th century Tivat like the entire Montenegrin Adriatic was part of the Venetian Republic then before World War I of Austria-Hungary.

Porto Montenegro is the first comprehensive deep sea marina in the Adriatic with a boardwalk. The property is owned by Canadian businessman Peter Munk.

Beech Castle is a fortified medieval summer residence built five centuries ago. This structure includes: an apartment building, a warehouse, a small church dedicated to St. Michael. All this is surrounded by a fortress wall.

We recommend that you visit Gornja Lastu. This is a lovely medieval village located near Tivat on the slopes of the Vrmac ridge. About 20 old 16th century stone houses have been preserved here.

The Church of Our Lady of Angels is a medieval church located on a beautiful rock near the sea. First mentioned in 1585 but probably built earlier. Interestingly the church was surrounded by a fortress wall.

St. Sava's Church is Tivat's largest religious building. This Neo-Byzantine-style building was built in the second half of the 20th century.

St. Roch's Church is a traditional Venetian-style religious building located by the sea in Donja Lastva (Tivat suburb). The church dates from the early 20th century.

Church of Saints Srdzhi, Nikolas and Demetrius - a small ancient church (9th century) in the town of Giurgiu Brdo.

St. Antun's Church is the smallest Tivat church built in the 14th century.

Tivat has an international airport that is connected with several major European cities on a regular basis including: Moscow, Prague, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt.

Безымянная страница

Population - 176,000

Area - 57 sq. km

Language - Dutch

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 29 m(95 ft)

Website - nijmegen.nl

14. Nijmegen(Netherlands)

Nijmegen is a city in the east of the Netherlands in the province of Gelderland. It is located on the Baal River near the border with Germany. Nijmegen is the oldest settlement in the Netherlands, the largest city in the province and the tenth in the whole country. It is a true pearl of the Gelderland immersed in ancient history and filled with ancient architecture.

Nijmegen is located on the southern bank of the river Baal, which is the left tributary of the Rhine. The climate is temperate with warm summers and mild winters.

Nijmegen is considered the oldest city in the Netherlands. In 2005, he celebrated his 2000th anniversary. The city was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD when they built a fortress on the hill above Baal. For a while a legion of Roman troops was stationed. A small settlement of Oppidum Batavorum emerged near the fortress which was destroyed during the uprising against the authorities of Rome .

In the Carolingian era Nijmegen became one of the most important cities in the state where the Royal Palace was built. In 1230 Nijmegen was granted city rights. Since 1364 it has been a free city and a member of the Hanseatic League. In 1543 Nijmegen came under the authority of the Habsburgs. Since the beginning of the eighty-year war the city has supported the Union of Utrecht and opposed the Spaniards. In 1678-1679 historic peace treaties were signed here to form an independent Dutch state.

By the end of the 18th century Nijmegen was the capital of Gelderland. In 1794 the city was occupied by the French and became the capital of the province Arnhem. In the 19th century Nijmegen was regarded as a key defense point on the border of the states and significantly strengthened. However in the second half of the 19th century many of the fortifications were demolished. In 1940 Nijmegen was occupied by the Nazis and badly damaged in 1944.

Nijmegen is considered one of the most ancient cities in Western Europe whose origins date back to Antiquity. Unfortunately during the Second World War (in 1944) many old buildings were destroyed or badly damaged. Although Nijmegen's Old Town is still beautiful.

In the center of Walhof hill is the ancient chapel of St. Nicholas - one of the oldest buildings in the Netherlands built in the Carolingian period between 8 - 9 centuries. You can also see fragments of the ancient imperial castle. It is best to go west toward Grote Markt from Walhoff. On the way you can look at Lange Hezelstraat Street which connected the settlements and the Roman fortress. If you turn left at the end of this street you can visit the Kronenburgerpark, where you can see fragments of old city fortifications.

Grote Markt is the central square of Nijmegen. Here you can see the ancient architecture of the 17th century. Among the historic buildings in the area stands a 16th-century weighted house (Waag) and a town hall around the same historical period.

Безымянная страница

Population - 40,000

Area - 140 sq. km

Language - Portuguese

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC

Elevation - 0 m(0 ft)

Website - albufeira.pt

15. Albufeira(Portugal)

Albufeira is a city in the south of Portugal in the historic Algarve region. It is the main resort of Faro County boasting beautiful beaches, a picturesque old town and noisy atmosphere. Albufeira is a once quiet fishing village that still retains its traditional character and charming country charm. Its heart is a labyrinth of steep narrow streets with snow-white houses and fishing lodges that lead to a beautiful beach.

Albufeira is located in the south of Portugal in the district of Faro. The city is located on the Atlantic coast 250 km from Lisbon. It has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.

Albufeira has a beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear sea. It has a length of 2 km and is divided into three parts: Praia dos Pescadores, Praia dos Alemães, Praia do Inatel.

Albufeira was probably founded in the prehistoric era as a fishing settlement. Further settlements were occupied by the Romans and named Baltum. The modern name of the city comes from the Arabic word "al-buhera" which means "sea castle". The Arabs built powerful defensive structures here making the area practically inaccessible. This allowed them to preserve these lands for the longest time.

Albufeira was released from Moorish influence only in 1249. In 1504 the city became part of the Portuguese kingdom. In 1755, the most powerful earthquake caused a surge that practically destroyed the city. By the early 20th century Albufeira was a small fishing settlement.

The main attraction of Albufeira is the beautiful beach with golden sand and blue sea. Also nearby are Praia da Oura Beach and Olhos da Água.

Marina Albufeira is a chic yacht marina located four kilometers west of the resort.

The old town of Albufeira is filled with tumultuous life, many restaurants and shops. These lively pedestrian streets are built with typical white houses and have the typical charm of a popular resort.

San Sebastian Church is an underrated cultural monument of Albufeira. This Baroque building dates from the 18th century and has a rare gilded altar.

Nossa Senora da Conceissau is a beautiful parish church built in the late 18th century. This one-nave building is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and preserves her most valuable image.

Santa Ana Church is a single-nave 18th-century religious building located in the Old Town of Albufeira. It is famous for its beautiful Baroque altar and carved statues. The current building was built instead of the old chapel of St. Anne destroyed during the 1755 earthquake.

Безымянная страница

Population - 324,000

Area - 179 sq. km

Language - Romanian

Currency - Romanian leu

Time zone - UTC+2

Elevation - 340 m(1120 ft)

Website - cluj.ro

16. Cluj(Romania)

Cluj-Napoca is a city in the northwestern part of Romania . It is the unofficial capital of Transylvania with a wonderful historical heritage and a wonderful atmosphere. Cluj is a beautiful ancient city with a truly Transylvanian charm that combines rich history and culture.

Cluj-Napoca is located in central Transylvania at the confluence of the Western Romanian Mountains and the Transylvanian Plain. The southern part of the city is more hilly. Cluj has a temperate continental climate with warm summers and cool winters.

The sources of Cluj's history go back to the Roman era. In the 2nd century AD the Romans conquered Dacia and in place of the modern city established a military base called Napoca which was destroyed in the 4-5 centuries during the invasion of the barbarians. In the 6th - 10th centuries the outskirts of Cluj were inhabited by hairy people. In the 12th century this region was conquered by the Hungarians and became part of their Kingdom.

In the 12th century a castle and a village near the ruins of ancient Napoca were founded. This settlement was inhabited by Transylvanian Saxons. In the 13th century Cluj suffered several times from the invasion of the Tatars. In 1316 he was granted city status. The new city began to grow and develop rapidly and became one of the centers of the region. In the Middle Ages Cluj was part of the Hungarian kingdom. In the future he was part of the Habsburg Empire. In the Austro-Hungarian part it had the German name Clausenburg.

In modern times Cluj remained Hungarian. In 1918 the city became part of the Kingdom of Romania. In 1940-1944 it became briefly Hungarian until in 1945 it became finally Romanian. The city was renamed to Cluj-Napoca during the reign of Ceausescu.

Union Square is the central square of Cluj where you can see the ruins of ancient Roman Napoca. Other interesting sights include the statue of Hungarian King Matthias I and the church of St. Michael.

Church of St. Michael is one of the largest medieval churches in Romania(more precisely the second largest after the Black Church in Brasov). This beautiful Gothic building was founded in 1316. In 1545 the church became Protestant and lost many frescoes and ornaments.

The Museum Square is a small charming square surrounded by pretty streets and terraces. The most interesting sights on it are the University of the Arts and the Franciscan Church founded in the 13th century. This religious edifice was built on the site of an old church destroyed by the Tatars.

Yanku Square is a modern square with amazing monumental buildings, among which stands out the National Theater and the Orthodox Cathedral.

Безымянная страница

Population - 33,000

Area - 65 sq. km

Language - Czech

Currency - Czech koruna

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 290 m(950 ft)

Website - znojmocity.cz

19. Znojmo(Czech Republic)

Znojmo is a small ancient Czech town on the river Dyje located on the hilly terrain of South Moravia near the border of the Czech Republic and Austria .

The main wealth of the city and the region(except for interesting sights) is wine. There are 16 wineries in the town and the surrounding area with vineyards occupying 3,500 hectares. Mainly white wines are made here - Sauvignon, Riesling, Grüner Veltliner. Ideal natural and climatic conditions help winemakers to produce some of the best white wines in the world.

It was founded almost a thousand years ago in 1055. In the first half of the 13th century Znojmo was transformed by King Przemysl Otakar I into a royal city. Until the middle of the XIII century he performed defensive functions. Modern Znojmo is the center of the food industry. Here they produce wine, fruit and vegetable canned food. There are also quite a few monuments of the Middle Ages in the city.

Probably by the density of monuments Znojmo occupies a leading position in the Czech Republic. In a small town preserved ancient fortress walls, ancient rotunda of the 12th century, castle and majestic Gothic church.

Church of St. Nicholas(kostel sv. Mikuláše ) is an ancient church, which rises above the River Die. The church was built from 1338 to the second half of the 15th century on the site of the old Romanesque church of the 12th century.

Fortress Tower(Vlkova věž ) - Gothic tower height of 32 meters built in the 14th century part of the old fortifications of the city.

Znoymovskyy lock (Znojemský hrad) - castle with a rich history is closely related to the history of the city. It was rebuilt in the mid-18th century. The Moravian Museum is now located here.

Rotunda of St. Catherine ( kaple sv. Kateřiny ) - a rotunda of the beginning of the 12th century with the oldest (preserved) Romanesque frescoes. It is located near the walls of the old castle. It also offers breathtaking scenery on the outskirts.

Town Hall with a Gothic tower built in the first half of the 15th century. The 13th century old tower was destroyed by fire.

Overlooking the Dyje River valley on the edge of the medieval city there is Znojmo Castle dating back to 11th century founded by Přemyslid dukes. The only remains of the castle used by the Přemysl dukes is the Romanesque Rotunda of Saint Catherine, the interior of which is covered with 11th-century frescoes depicting biblical scenes and illustrating the life of Přemysl.

Безымянная страница

Population - 238,000

Area - 242 sq. km

Language - Slovak

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 440 m(1420 ft)

Website - kosice.sk

22. Kosice(Slovakia)

Kosice is the second largest city in Slovakia located in the eastern part of the country. It is the capital of the Eastern Carpathians with a rich historical and cultural heritage formed by several peoples. Kosice is a beautiful old town that has a wonderful atmosphere and a large number of monuments from the Middle Ages to the modern times. Its historic core is the largest in the country and is considered one of the most beautiful in Slovakia.

Kosice is located in the east of Slovakia in the valley of the Hornad River occupying the western part of the valley of the same name which is the foot of the mountains of Montenegro. The city is located near the borders of three states: Hungary (20 km), Poland (90 km) and Ukraine (80 km). It has a temperate continental climate characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters.

Kosice neighborhoods were settled in the 8th century. The first written mention of the settlement here dates from 1230. In 1342 the city received city rights and royal privileges. During this period the city became the second largest settlement in Slovakia, which was then part of the Kingdom of Hungary. In the 15th century Kosice was conquered by the Hussites.

In the 17th - 18th centuries Kosice became the center of the Hungarians' struggle against the Habsburgs. In 1657 a university was founded in the city. In 1919 they proclaimed the Slovak Soviet Republic which had existed for quite a while. In 1938-1944 the city was occupied by Hungary. After World War II the city became part of Czechoslovakia and since 1993 - an independent Slovakia.

The historical center of Kosice is the largest among the historic cities of Slovakia. Most of the sights are centered along the main pedestrian street known as Hlavná Ulica. Main Street (Hlavná Ulica) is the largest historic street in Slovakia with a unique atmosphere that creates the heart of Kosice. In the past it was a medieval square that grew with the city.

Cathedral of St.Elizabeth is the largest church in Slovakia and the main attraction of Kosice. This gothic pearl was built between the 14th and 15th centuries. The church is the easternmost Gothic cathedral in Europe. On the north tower is the observation deck with stunning views of the Old Town. The height of this tower is 59.7 meters. You need to overcome 160 steps to climb it.

St. Michael's Chapel - a small church built in the first half of the 14th century and located near the cathedral of St. Elizabeth. It was built in the center of an ancient cemetery inside the city walls. The chapel is a fine example of a medieval Gothic.

St. Urbana is a Gothic bell tower with a pyramidal roof, built at the turn of the 14th - 15th centuries. It is one of the oldest buildings in Kosice, dedicated to St. Urban - the patron saint of winemakers.

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Population - 326,000

Area - 117 sq. km

Language - Italian

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 5 m(16 ft)

Website - comune.bari.it

25. Bari(Italy)

Bari is a seaside town in southern Italy and the center of the province of the same name. It is one of the most important cities in the region near Naples, a major tourist and economic center, a seaport. Bari like many Italian cities has a rich long history so there are many ancient monuments. The city port is the largest passenger port of the Adriatic Sea.

The city of Bari is located on the Adriatic coast between the cities of Govinazzo - in the north and Mola di Bari - in the south in the center of the great plain. Although some hills reach 131 meters above sea level.

The climate is Mediterranean with mild winters and hot, dry summers.

Bari is very famous in the religious environment - here lies the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker which made him one of the centers of the Orthodox Church in Europe.

The city's history begins more than two thousand years ago when the Romans established a fishing settlement here. Although these places were inhabited much earlier than in ancient Greece . Already at that time the Traian Road was laid here which gave impetus to the growth and development of the city. In the 9th century Bari briefly came under the rule of the Saracens who founded the Bari emirate here and established a fortress here. In the future the city belonged to the Byzantine Empire and the Normans.

In the 12th century Bari was part of the Holy Roman Empire and in the 14th and 15th centuries the city was ruled by the Duke dynasty. At this time the city declined and lost its former meaning. The Duchy returned first to the Kingdom of Naples then to Italy at its unification.

Local cuisine is extremely diverse: pizza, seafood, cheese, meat and more. There will be no problems with food. There are a large number of restaurants, trattorias, pizzerias, fast food outlets in the city.

Cathedral of San Sabino(Cattedrale di San Sabino) - a cathedral built between the XII and XIII centuries in Romanesque style.

Norman-Swabian fortress in Bari built in the first half of the 12th century. The powerful and majestic castle consists of two separate parts: the first is of Byzantine-Norman origin in the form of a trapezoid with two towers; the second - that unites all the bastions. The castle can be reached from the south side by a bridge over a moat. In the western part of the castle is a carved gothic portal. In the northern part of the castle is a picture gallery.

St. Nicholas Basilica(Basilica di San Nicola) - Catholic basilica built in the early 12th century to store the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, one of the most revered Orthodox saints.

Безымянная страница

Population - 778

Area - 59 sq. km

Language - German

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 511 m(1677 ft)

Website - hallstatt.at

2. Hallstatt(Austria)

Hallstatt is a small charming town(community) in Western Austria. Located in a picturesque area on the western shore of the lake of the same name surrounded by the Alps. Hallstatt is actually a tiny village lost among mountains and forests. These are beautiful gingerbread houses reflected in the purest water of a mountain lake, narrow streets, several small ancient churches and fantastic natural scenery.

Hallstatt until the 19th century was virtually unavailable to the general public. The village could be reached only by boat or on a narrow mountain trail. Now a mountain road leads here and this place has become one of Austria's calling cards. The community is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hallstatt is located in the Upper Austria region on the shore of Hallstatt Lake. The community is located between the southwest coast of Holstetter See and the steep slopes of the Dachstein massif in the geographical district of Salzkammergut on the national road connecting Salzburg and Graz.

The climate is temperate mountainous with a rather warm summer and a cool winter. During the year more than 1 000 mm of precipitation falls most of which falls during the warm period. In winter there are usually frosts. Fogs are possible in the cold.

Settlement on the site of modern Hallstatt existed in the Neolithic era. In the mid-19th century archaeologists discovered a prehistoric cemetery with more than a thousand burials. Many researchers consider Hallstatt to be one of the oldest settlements north of the Alps.

From the 8th century BC salt mine the oldest in the world of its kind have been operated here. Also found here are many artifacts of the Bronze Age.

Data on settlements in the era of ancient Rome and the early Middle Ages is almost nonexistent. The first mention of Hallstatt dates from the 14th century. At the end of the 16th century a salt pipeline was built in Ebenzee. In the late 19th century, the first road was laid here.

Church of Christ - a small Protestant church of the late 18th century. It is one of the Hallstatt symbols. If you walk from the church you can continue to the observation deck. This is where all the most beautiful and famous photos of the town are made.

It is not easy to get to Hallstatt. From Salzburg and Vienna take the train to Attnang-Puchheim then take the train to Bad Ischl or Obertraun, get off at the Hallstatt station which is more like a stop in the woods, go to the lake and take a ferry. Tickets for the train back can be purchased in a special vending machine. The closest airports are in Vienna and Salzburg. You can get to Hallstatt from Prague by car to the town of Cesky Krumlov and then by bus. There are also direct buses from Salzburg to Bad Ischl.

Безымянная страница

Population - 240,000

Area - 119 sq. km

Language - German

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 5 m(16 ft)

Website - kiel.de

21. Kiel(Germany)

Kiel is a port city in northern Germany and the capital of Schleswig-Holstein. Located on the Baltic Sea coast in its southwestern part on the shore of a wide bay. Today Kiel is one of Germany's 30 largest cities. The bombing of World War II almost completely destroyed the historical heritage of the city. Many of the landmarks and architectural monuments were restored after the war using modern elements and styles. Therefore you should not be disappointed if you do not find in the Kiel original buildings and structures of the Hanseatic period.

The city is located on the shore of the Kiel Bay which is part of the Baltic Sea. The artificial canal connects Kiel to the North Sea. The climate is temperate marine. The average annual temperature is 9 degrees. Summer is cool with an average temperature of 15-17 degrees. Winter is mild with average temperature 0 to +2. Almost 800 mm of precipitation falls annually. There 100 rainy days a year.

Kiel was founded in the 1930s by Count Adolf Holstein. The city soon joined the Hanseatic League. Although the city is much inferior in importance to the main Hanseatic ports - Lübeck, Hamburg, Wismar and Bremen. In 1329 Kiel was surrounded by a stone wall and had 9 city gates. From 1460 the city was ruled by the Danish crown. It was expelled from Hansa in the mid-16th century.

In 1544 Kiel became part of the possessions of the Holstein Earls. In 1665 a university was founded here - one of the oldest in northern Germany. In 1721 Kiel became the main residence of the Holstein. Interestingly Peter III, the Russian emperor, was born here. After the collapse of the Holy Roman Empire the city became part of Denmark. Although after the Napoleonic wars, Kiel returned to Germany again. In the 19th century - a large German port. During World War II a large German naval base was located here. Kiel was bombed extensively destroying almost 80% of the old city.

Kiel has an airport, which is located northwest of the city and accepts only small aircraft or charter flights. The Great International Airport is located in Hamburg 100 km or an hour away by car. You can reach Kiel from Hamburg by train. There is a regular rail connection with Lubeck and some other cities. The bus service is with Berlin, the big cities of Poland, Tallinn.

Unfortunately World War II virtually destroyed the Kiel monuments and historical heritage. The main event is the Kiel Week - an event of world importance in sailing held since the late 19th century. It takes place in late June.

Kiel Town Hall is a historic building in Kiel with a 106-meter high tower. On the tower is a viewing platform with great views of the city. The town hall was built in the early 20th century. The old town hall was located on Market Square.

St. Nicholas Church is a Protestant Gothic style church one of the oldest buildings in the city. It is located on the Old Market Square. The church was founded in the 13th century. The modern gothic appearance was obtained in the late 19th century.

Безымянная страница

Population - 90,000

Area - 77 sq. km

Language - Czech

Currency - Czech koruna

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 237 m(776 ft)

Website - pardubice.eu

3. Pardubice(Czech Republic)

Pardubice is a town in eastern Bohemia located at the confluence of the Laba and Chrudimki rivers in a picturesque spot among meadows and deciduous forests. It is the tenth largest city in the country and is located between Prague and Brno. Pardubice is an ancient city and a large educational center that smells like gingerbread.

Pardubice is located on the banks of the Laba, which is one of the largest rivers in the Czech Republic. Prague is approximately 100 km away. Distance to Brno - 150 km The climate is temperate with warm summers and cool winters.

Pardubice was founded in 1340. Although in the 13th century there was an ancient monastery here. The further development of the city was due to the nobles of the Pernstein family who made this small town their residence.

In the 15-16th century the city grew and developed rapidly. The development of the city lasted until the Thirty Years' War. After that Pardubice fell into disrepair. Further growth of the city occurred in the 19th century when the first Czech railway Prague - Olomouc was laid.

Today Pardubice is one of the largest cities in the Czech Republic, a major cultural and economic center. There is also a large University here.

The most convenient way to get to Pardubice is by rail. Due to the location at the intersection of the Prague - Ostrava and Prague - Brno - Vienna routes, trains depart from the Czech capital and back every hour.

The center of the old town is Pernstein Square. All of Pardubice's main attractions are located near it.

Along the perimeter of the square are many ancient historic buildings of the 16-17 centuries in which traces from the Gothic to the Renaissance and Renaissance style can be found. Most homes contain paintings and various decorative elements. The square has an ancient Marian column made of sandstone. It dates from the late 17th century. The plague column was supplemented with sculptures in the 18th century.

The green gate with the tower is one of the symbols of Pardubice. They were built in the middle of the 16th century and were part of the city fortifications. The 60-meter high tower is decorated with a copper Gothic helmet. You can climb the tower and admire the panorama of the historic center.

Pardubice Castle is one of the main sights of the city. Originally here in the 13th century was a fortress which was rebuilt by the gentlemen of Pernstein in the Renaissance palace and in the 15-16 centuries served as their residence. The castle is now open to visitors and the museum is functioning here.

Безымянная страница

Population - 196,000

Area - 296 sq. km

Language - Spanish

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 27 m(88 ft)

Website - almeria.es

18. Almeria(Spain)

Almeria is a city in southeastern Spain in Andalucia. Located on the Mediterranean coast that perfectly combines historic beauty and modern charm. Almeria is a fairly large seaside town and seaport with a magnificent cultural and historical heritage, endless beaches and beautiful seascapes. Like many Andalusian cities, Almeria retained its Arabic name after being conquered by the Spaniards. It stands for “Mirror of the Sea”.

Almeria is located in the southeast of the country on the Mediterranean coast. The city occupies the alluvial plain in the Andarak Delta. To the east are the mountains of Cape de Gata, in the northeast - the mountain range Sierra - Alhamilla, in the southeast - the mountains Penibetika. The coastline has a length of more than 30 km and includes 16 beaches. The climate of Almeria is Mediterranean. Summer is hot and dry and winter is warm. Only 200 mm of precipitation falls a year.

Almeria was founded in 955 by the Arabs. Some believe that the settlement existed in antiquity as evidenced by the findings of the Roman and Phoenician periods. Initially the Moors built a fortress here to protect the coast. Later a city arose there, a mosque and a wall were built to connect the settlement with the fortress. In the 11-12th century, Almeria was one of the largest and most important Moorish cities in the Pyrenees especially after the fall of the Caliphate of Cordoba. The Arabs owned the city until 1489.

In the late 15th century Almeria was conquered by the Castilian crown. In 1522 a powerful earthquake nearly completely destroyed the city and reduced its population to 700 people. The 17th and 18th centuries were a time of economic downturn caused by natural disasters and pirates. Since the 19th century there has been a gradual revival of the city.

Almeria's gastronomy is typical of the Mediterranean though not without some features. The main ingredients of Almerian cuisine are fish and seafood, vegetables and olive oil. Typical dishes: wheat porridge with meat - Migas, potatoes with dried pepper and cumin, Cherigan (toast with meat or fish) Gurullos (dish with cuttlefish or octopus), Acelgas Esparra (spicy soup), Lomo al Ajillo (meat with garlic and potatoes), Ajo Blanco (thick cream containing garlic, bread, ground almonds, water, olive oil and salt), Bacalao con Tomate (cod with tomato).

Alcazaba is the most famous and visited monument of Almeria. It's an ancient Muslim fortress founded in the 10th century. In Arabic it means "fortified city". The hilltop fortress dominates the medieval core the so-called Medina. Alcazaba consists of three fortifications built in different historical periods and for different purposes. The first fortifications date from the 10th century and were built purely for the protection of the population. The second part of the fortifications dates from the 11th century and was the residence of a local ruler. The third part is the latest. It was already built by the Spanish for security.

The cathedral began to be erected in 1524 on the site of a former mosque destroyed during a major earthquake two years earlier. The architectural style of the building reflects the combination of the Gothic and the Renaissance.

Безымянная страница

Population - 14,000

Area - 64 sq. km

Language - Slovak

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 240 m(779 ft)

Website - levoca.sk

10. Levoca(Slovakia)

Levoča is a small town in Eastern Slovakia in the historical Spis. It is a magnificent medieval pearl still surrounded by city walls within which are located: a unique Renaissance town hall, ancient burger houses, a magnificent Gothic cathedral and other architectural monuments. The historical center of Levoči is one of the most charming among the medieval Slovak cities. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009.

Levoca is located in the east of Slovakia 55 km west of Pryashiv. The city is located in a hilly area at the foot of Levochek Peaks. The climate is temperate with warm summers and cool winters. Levoca is 90 km southwest of Kosice and 370 km northeast of Bratislava.

Levoca was first mentioned in 1249. Although probably settlement existed here as early as the 11th century. After the Mongol-Tatar invasion German colonists began to populate the city. In 1323 Levoca received the status of a free royal city. In the future medieval settlement flourished through trade. Local merchants traded with Krakow, the Hanseatic cities and even Venice .

The heyday of Levoca fell to the 15th century when local merchants received a number of privileges. In the 17th century (after the anti-Habsburg uprisings) the city declined. These may have kept the historic core in such good condition.

The main attraction of Levoca is a charming old town surrounded by well-preserved walls. The historic center includes several interesting medieval monuments as well as over 60 ancient burgher houses built between the 14th and 15th centuries.

The heart of the old town is an ancient rectangular square with several beautiful sights. It is surrounded by more than 50 magnificent burger houses built during the late Middle Ages.

Cathedral of St.Jacob is one of Levoca's most famous monuments. This magnificent medieval Gothic church of the 14th century is one of the most important sacral structures in Slovakia. A tall tower was added in the 19th century. The church has a stunning interior that is considered a masterpiece of religious art. In the interior stands out a wooden altar made of linden between 1507-1517 years. The altar is almost 19 meters high and is the tallest building of its kind in the world.

Cathedral of St.Jakob is adjacent to the arcade town hall which is considered to be one of the best examples of Renaissance civil construction on Slovak land. This building was built in 1550 after a fire that damaged a 15th century old structure.

The cage of shame is a medieval building dating from the 16th century. It was used to punish minor offenses.

Безымянная страница

Population - 13,000

Area - 83 sq. km

Language - Croatian

Currency - Croatian kuna

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 0 m(0 ft)

Website - grad-umag.hr

17. Umag(Croatia)

Umag is a town in the northwest of Croatia in the Istria region on the Adriatic coast. Situated at the westernmost point of the peninsula in a beautiful bay near the border with Slovenia. Umag is a picturesque small Mediterranean town with a charming historic center, excellent beaches (some of which have the prestigious Blue Flag), beautiful nature and rich history and traditions. It is an ideal place for a family vacation: warm sea and plenty of sun, hotels, apartments and campsites.

Umag is the westernmost city of Croatia located 10 km from the border with Slovenia. The climate is Mediterranean with hot summers and mild winters.

The history of Umag is extremely interesting and rich. Although there is no written evidence of the city's existence here during the Roman Empire this place was beloved by the Romans as a holiday destination. The Umag Historical Center has preserved parts of the city walls and defensive towers as well as Renaissance and Baroque buildings and churches.

The first mention of the settlement dates back to the 7th century. From 7 to 8 centuries Umag belonged to Byzantium later owned by the Franks. In the 13th century the city recognized the power of Venice. The Venetians ruled Umaga for 5 centuries. In the late 18th century(after the fall of the Venetian Republic) the city became part of Austria. The Habsburgs owned Umag before the First World War. Up until 1954 the city actually belonged to Italy, until it became part of Yugoslavia.

One of the main attractions of Umag is its Old Town which is a medieval center with picturesque narrow streets, ancient walls and Venetian villas. Unfortunately the buildings and structures of antiquity and the early Middle Ages have not been preserved to this day. In the western part of the historic center is the oldest tower of the city fortifications.

The city walls began to be erected in Umag from the 10th century. Most of the preserved sites and towers belong to the Venetian period.

One of the main symbols of Umag is the church of St. Mary(St. Roch) with a beautiful bell tower in the style of Venetian architecture. The temple was built in the early 16th century and is the architectural dominant of the old city.

Not far from the town(at Cape Rosazzo) is a small very old church of St. John. Peregrina(Pelegrio). It was built on the spot where by the order of Diocletian the saint of the same name was executed.

Istria is famous for its excellent cuisine, which is at the intersection of traditional Croatian, Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Безымянная страница

Population - 344,000

Area - 81 sq. km

Language - Dutch

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 1 m(3 ft)

Website - denhaag.nl

5. The Hague(Netherlands)

The Hague(Den Haag ) is the capital of South Holland. A city located in the western part of the Netherlands on the North Sea. There are residences of government, parliament and the royal family. There are also offices of major international organizations. The Hague is the Netherlands' third largest city after Amsterdam and Rotterdam, often referred to as the "judiciary capital of the world" because international courts are located here. The city is a wonderful and harmonious combination of historical buildings and modern architecture.

The Hague is located in the western part of the Dutch waters of the North Sea and is the largest city on the coast. The city is divided into 8 districts. The heart of The Hague is the Center which houses the most important sights. The climate is temperate marine with cool summers and mild winters.

The Hague was founded in 1230 as the hunting residence of the Dutch Count Floris IV. This Earl built here a small castle on the site of which Binnenhof is now located. By the 14th century The Hague had become a fairly large settlement but had never received urban rights. By the 17th century the settlement numbered tens of thousands of inhabitants and was the third largest in the Netherlands, but remained a village.

The Hague received city rights only in 1806. In the 19th century, the city grew and developed rapidly, remaining one of the largest and most important in the Netherlands.

The Hague has a joint airport with Rotterdam. From the airport to the Central Station can be reached by bus Line E. The city is a large railway junction. There are trains to the central station from Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport, Utrecht, Groningen as well as Cologne, Prague, Berlin, Frankfurt, Basel and Copenhagen .

The Hague is connected by freeways to Amsterdam (A4 and A44), Rotterdam (A13) and Utrecht (A12).

The Peace Palace is one of The Hague's most photographed buildings and the seat of the UN Tribunal. This grand neo-renaissance building was built in the early 20th century.

Binnenhof is the seat of the Dutch Parliament and the oldest place in The Hague. The palace complex is located on the site of the old hunting castle, which began the history of the city. After passing through the famous gates you can enter the courtyard which is home to many historic buildings. Binnenhof is located in the heart of The Hague. This place has been one of the main centers of Dutch politics since the 15th century.

In the courtyard immediately attracts the attention of the Hall of the Knights - the main building of the 13th century, a masterpiece of Dutch Gothic which is used for official royal receptions. In front of the Hall of the Knights is a neo-Gothic fountain of the 1600s with gilding decorated with the statue of William II.

Scheveningen is a well-known seaside resort and one of the Hague areas that is famous for its sandy beaches. One of its most beautiful places is a huge pier that literally crashes into the North Sea. A viewing platform and a 50-meter Ferris wheel are available.

Безымянная страница

Population - 89,000

Area - 85 sq. km

Language - English

Currency - Pound sterling

Time zone - UTC

Elevation - 15 m(48 ft)

Website - visitbath.co.uk

13. Bath(England)

Bath is a city in the southwest of the UK and the capital of Somerset. Known for its natural thermal waters and unique historical heritage(ancient thermae and medieval Gothic abbey). Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of the United Kingdom with a long history, magnificent antique and medieval sights as well as fantastic Georgian architecture. About 500 historic center buildings are of significant historical and architectural importance and Bath itself is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bath is located on the hilly plain of the Avon River Valley in southwestern England. The city is located in the beautiful countryside of Somerset County 168 km from London. Bath has a temperate maritime climate characterized by cool summers and mild winters. In the cold southwest region winds prevail. The highest rainfall occurs in the period from October to January.

Bath was founded in 60 BC when the Romans built a therma(bath) and a temple in this place. Already in the Roman period the city had the glory of a balneological resort and was called Aquae Sulis. In the 6th century the settlement was conquered by the Western Saxons. In the 7th century an abbey was established in Bath making it an important religious center. In the 12th - 16th centuries the monastery was substantially rebuilt and expanded.

The glory of Bath as a resort returned in the 16th century. During this period the settlement received the status of a royal city. The discovery of thermal springs began to attract aristocracy. Bat began to grow and build rapidly. Here magnificent mansions and buildings in the style of Georgian architecture were erected. In the second half of the 18th century the ruins of Roman baths were discovered in Bath. By the 19th century the city had become one of Britain's premier resorts.

The historical center of Bath has a classic Georgian architecture. Here you can see several hundred magnificent monumental buildings built of golden stone in the period from 18th to 19th centuries.

The best examples of Georgian architecture can be seen in the northwestern part of the city. One of Bath's most interesting buildings is the Royal Crescent - a monumental semi-circular row of residential townhouses that look like one.

Pulteni Bridge is a magnificent arch bridge that is one of the symbols of Bath. This structure was built in 1774 and is the starting point for river excursions.

The Sally Lunn House is a museum and historic restaurant located in an ancient medieval late 15th century house. The restaurant is famous for its pastries which are prepared according to the traditional secret recipe. The museum contains a fascinating exhibit depicting the medieval Bath.

Prior Park is a landscaped garden that is considered one of Somerset's most beautiful places. Located 3 km southeast of Bath and contains picturesque bridges, mansions, a Gothic temple and a lake.

Безымянная страница

Population - 92,000

Area - 105 sq. km

Language - Czech

Currency - Czech koruna

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 235 m(771 ft)

Website - hradeckralove.org

24. Hradec Kralove(Czech Republic)

Hradec Kralove is a city in the Czech Republic located at the confluence of the Laba and Eagle rivers. It is mentioned in the 10th century as a commercial settlement. In 1225 the city was granted royal status. King Przemysl Ottoqar I founded the castle here. Interestingly the city became the residence of widowed queens for several centuries. Hence its name.

In the 14th century the city experienced rapid development and became the second in the Czech Republic after Prague. However after the transition to power in the Habsburg dynasty it lost its significance.

Now Hradec Kralove is a large transport and industrial center. They also produce musical instruments of famous companies: piano and piano W.Hoffmann, Bohemia, Petrof, Jolana guitars.

When visiting Hradec Kralove be sure to pay attention to the following sights: the beautiful White Tower built in the 16th century, the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit - a temple in the late 14th century Gothic style. The city also has beautiful architecture. This is a great romantic place for a relaxing holiday.

Cathedral of the Holy Spirit is a late Gothic cathedral. Chronicles claim that the temple was built in the early 14th century. The first church was destroyed by fire. The new temple was built before 1360. During its existence the temple repeatedly suffered from a fire.

The cathedral is a three-nave brick pseudobasil with sandstone details. The cathedral has a central nave that dominates, cross vaults and a long presbytery with two towers attached. The interior of the cathedral is mostly 19th century.

The White Tower is named after the light sandstone from which it was built. The tower was erected on the site of an old wooden bell tower in the late 16th century. The White Tower is located near the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit before entering the Chapel of St.Clement. The tower stands out in all the architecture of the city and is the second tallest in the Czech Republic after the bell tower of the cathedral of St. Vita.

Kostel Nanebevzetí Panny Marie Church is a mid-17th-century Jesuit church. The church is now a parish church.

The city is situated in the centre of a very fertile region called the Golden Road, at the confluence of the Elbe and the Orlice, and contains many buildings of historical and architectural interest. The Cathedral of the Holy Spirit was founded in 1303 by Elizabeth, and the church of St. John built in 1710 stands on the ruins of the old castle.

Безымянная страница

Population - 154,000

Area - 85 sq. km

Language - Italian

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 4 m(13 ft)

Website - cagliari.it

23. Cagliari(Italy)

Cagliari is not a fishing village but a significant city with its university, museums, airport and developed infrastructure. Here is a large historical center with medieval buildings which will require more than one day to explore, a nature reserve, a port, many cafes and entertainment. And of course beaches with soft fine sand and a gentle dip into the water.

Within the city there are 2 beaches: Poetto and Calamosca. The first - crowded and beautifully equipped, the second - small and wild but with a very picturesque natural environment. Many cool beaches are outside the city limits - just don't be lazy sometimes to get on the bus and leave near the city.

Poetto City Beach is 8 kilometers in length - it is very popular with citizens and travelers. The beach is separated from the city by the lakes of the Molentargius-Saline Nature Park and looks like a long sandy strip surrounded on two sides by water. Poetto's infrastructure is well developed: there are showers, changing rooms, numerous cafes. It is possible to settle down on the beach directly on a towel - without payment of sun beds and umbrellas. And this is not a bad savings if you want a long holiday by the sea. The sand here is the purest and the water is blue.

The second beach of Cagliari - Calamosca - is small compared to Poetto and belongs to the hotel of the same name. There is no cool beach equipment here but there are far fewer people and a sense of collision with the sea in its natural non-resort type. The beach is also sandy but in some places it is framed by small rocky cliffs on which trees grow(you can hide in the shade). And not far from Calamosca is a viewing platform on the cliff of the Devil's Sella del diavolo which offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.

And we strongly advise you not to spend all your time in the city but to rent a car to travel around the neighborhood where there are a bunch of beaches the beauty of which is lost the gift of language. You can also do raids on the bus. When in Cagliari first go to the nearby Costa Rey (Costa Rei) where the unspoiled beaches awarded "blue flag". Pay attention to the beach in Villasimius (Villasimius) and Torre delle Stella (Torre delle Stelle) . You can reach them from Cagliari no longer than an hour.

Surrounded by the sights of Piazza Palazzo (Piazza Palazzo) - the same place from which to begin acquaintance with the architectural traditions of the city. Here is the church of Santa Maria (Cattedrale di Santa Maria) notable for its eclectic appearance as well as the Royal Palace (Palazzo Regio) where once was the residence of local kings. The province's prefecture is now sitting here.

Take a look and see the National Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale) - exhibits from different eras up to the Roman Empire are on display here. Particularly interesting pieces in the museum - the oldest bronze. These are such bronze and very valuable figures that indicate that life in Sardinia boiled over many thousands of years ago.

Безымянная страница

Population - 50,000

Area - 32 sq. km

Language - Estonian

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+2

Elevation - 10 m(30 ft)

Website - parnu.ee

20. Parnu(Estonia)

Parnu is a city in the southwest of Estonia on the Baltic Sea coast. It's a large seaport and one of the main Estonian resorts. It is located in the northern part of the Gulf of Riga near the Riga - Tallinn motorway .Parnu is considered to be the summer capital of Estonia. It's the fourth largest city in the country with a rich history, a charming Old Center and beautiful sandy beaches.

Parnu is located in the southwestern part of Estonia on the shores of the Pärnu Gulf which is part of the Baltic Sea Gulf. The city is located at the mouth of the river with the same name. The climate is temperate marine with warm and slightly rainy summers and mild winters with light frosts. One of the features of the local climate is a very high humidity of about 80%. Also in the vicinity of the city is very beautiful nature.

Parnu is an ancient Hanseatic city. It was founded in 1251 after the bishop moved from the old residence to a new castle on the right bank of the Parnu River. The new city was destroyed after 12 years by the Lithuanians. After that it grew, mainly on the left side of the river in the territory of the Teutonic Order and was called Pernau. Due to its favorable strategic position on the Gulf Coast Parnu joined the Hanseatic League and became one of the richest cities in Lifland.

After the Livonian War the city went to Sweden . After that it was not long in Poland and returned to Sweden again. After the Northern War the city became part of the Russian Empire and was called Pernov. Parnu has become one of the main Russian ports on the Baltic coast. In the 19th century it began to develop as a resort. Parnu town was called since 1919. In 1941 the city was occupied by German troops, and in 1944 was liberated by the Red Army.

Parnu is Estonia's largest resort. There is everything for a comfortable stay: white sandy beaches, small and quite warm sea, many places for walks, bars, restaurants and other entertainment. The city has a long sandy beach located in the southern part of the city. By the end of July the water in the sea warms up to 22-23 degrees. The swimming season can last until September. If the weather does not allow for bathing you can go to the indoor water park. Many bars and restaurants can be found within Ruutli Street.

The closest international airports are in Tallinn and Riga. Parnu has a train connection with the capital of Estonia. The popular means of transportation are buses departing from Tallinn, Riga, Haapsalu, Tartu and some other cities. The motorway connects Parnu with Tallinn (130 km) and Riga (180 km).

In the historic center you can see the town hall. This is a classicist-style building built in the late 18th century.

One of the symbols of the historic center of Parnu is the Church of St. Elizabeth. It is a beautiful baroque church of the mid-17th century, built by architects from Riga. In the 1930s an organ was built in the church.

Безымянная страница

Population - 13,000

Area - 167 sq. km

Language - Italian

Currency - Euro

Time zone - UTC+1

Elevation - 43 m(138 ft)

Website - comunedivieste.it

9. Vieste(Italy)

Hot, rocky and sublime Vieste was once a typical fishing community in southeastern Italy. But the cleanest beaches and the incredible beauty of the area have attracted visitors to the town to visit the Italian sun.

Modern Vieste is one of the best seaside towns in the Apulia region famous for its beaches. There is no “Laksheri” raid here which is so characteristic of the Ligurian coast. Homes on high cliffs, simple food, cozy Old Town with white walls and friendly locals - the town is great for democratic travelers who travel by sea and authentic atmosphere not for increased comfort and bohemianism.

The beaches of the region are the cleanest in the region, they have repeatedly received honorary blue flags. Above the coastline limestone cliffs with many arches, grottoes and underwater caves hang - incredible beauty! By the way that's why divers are so fond of divers - they are great places for diving.

There are more than 10 long sandy beaches in the city with fine sand and the cleanest sea. And there are plenty of free beach areas. By the way they are very fond of hanging out with surfers. Free beaches although they do not have sun beds but the basic amenities such as toilets and showers are most often there because of the close proximity of paid beaches.

One of the main beaches of the city - Spiaggia della Scialara . Besides the fact that it is very comfortable the beach is also incredibly picturesque: it offers a magnificent view of the triangular castle which is located on a cliff above the sea. The rock monolith Pizzomunno is located 25 meters from the beach. It is a kind of symbol of the city of Vieste.

If you want to be alone choose Spiaggia di Sfinalicchio .It is necessary to get to it from the city by bus. It is a two-kilometer sandy beach where few people but enough trees and other vegetation.

To begin with search for "trabucco" in the Old Town - these are the wooden platforms on which fishing nets are attached. Such structures have long been allowed to fish without going out to sea. Now some "trabucco" has cafes and restaurants.

The must-visit and triangular castle is a powerful defensive type building with towers. It was built in 1240 but in the middle of the XVI century it was significantly rebuilt by the Spaniards. In the center of the castle is set a "bitter stone" which tells about the tragic events of the Saracen massacre in 1554.

Of particular interest is the ancient pseudo-Romanesque cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) which still houses works of art of the 16th century. For example a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary. If you like to go to museums take a look at Museo Civico - here are the artifacts of the Roman period in Italy.