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Think Europe, think fine wine and dine, fashion, technology, automobiles, architecture, scenery, pleasant weather, rolling hills, steep valleys, birthplace of the Fine Arts and Industrial Revolution, the Renaissance, the genius minds and the finest musicians, the list can go on...
You've always wanted to visit that place but never knew which places speak volumes of their culture and scenic beauty? These might not be the countries that come immediately to your mind when you think of Europe. But these are places you simply cannot miss during your trip. Here are eight great additions to your itinerary.
Austria
City side Vienna, Austria
Situated in Central Europe, Austria has always had a penchant for being a place of convergence, a home for the Arts and an epitome of elegance. Rightly so. Places like Vienna, Innsbruck, Hallstatt, St Gilgen are home to some of the momentous periods in history.
Romania
Left: Bran Castle, thought to be the home of the legendary Count Dracula.
Right: Ice stalagmites in the Scarisoara Ice Caves, Romania.
Yes, you thought correctly, here's where Dracula came from! From the daunting castles of Transylvania to the magnificent Scarisoara ice cave, towering cathedrals to all the stalwart architecture that Romania can boast about, your trip to Europe would be woefully incomplete if you didn't visit this South-eastern Central European country.
Luxembourg
Echternach, the oldest town in Luxembourg
Ah, Luxembourg. The imperial haven of the monarchs. But that's not all she has to offer. Nestled in the heart of Western Europe, you can go hiking, attend an exhibition of the works of Salvador Dali at the Viaden Castle (this October) or trudge through the picturesque fortifications and castles that were once inhabited by royalty. Luxembourg City, Clervaux and Vianden are places you must see.
Liechtenstein
The Vaduz Castle built in the 12th century by Hugo von Petronell-Liechtenstein
OK, you can hardly pronounce the name and technically is the 6th smallest country in the world, how does this feature on our list? Because good things come in small packages. Liechtenstein is situated between Austria and Switzerland and is well known as a tourist destination and a business centre. Known for its cider and wine, rich history and scenic castles like the Vaduz and Gutenberg, that are built on rock known as Licht(light) Stein(stone) from where the country derives its name.
Portugal
The narrow streets of Lisbon, Portugal, in all its rustic beauty
Portugal has more to offer besides football heartthrob Cristiano Ronaldo. Located in South Western Europe, this iconic country is home to the best beaches like Alentejo and Algarve, not to mention gourmet food in Lisbon's winding streets and the Madeira Island spas.
Belgium
City side Vienna, Austria
Situated in Central Europe, Austria has always had a penchant for being a place of convergence, a home for the Arts and an epitome of elegance. Rightly so. Places like Vienna, Innsbruck, Hallstatt, St Gilgen are home to some of the momentous periods in history.
Slovenia
City side Vienna, Austria
Situated in Central Europe, Austria has always had a penchant for being a place of convergence, a home for the Arts and an epitome of elegance. Rightly so. Places like Vienna, Innsbruck, Hallstatt, St Gilgen are home to some of the momentous periods in history.
Hungary
Lake Balaton, Europe's largest lake
Hungary is a land of happy paradoxes. Located in Central Europe, it is landlocked by Austria, Slovakia and Serbia. It is still known as the Land of Waters because it is home to the largest lake in Europe Lake Balaton. The famous river Danube runs through this country too and you can go on cruise trips that will let you discover more about Hungary. Budapest, Hungarian State Opera House, St Stephen's Basilica, Buda Castle and Bukk National Park should be on your Visiting List.
So what are you waiting for? Pack those bags and head for an experience you'll never forget!
