Europe Travel Guides
From all our trips throughout Europe we are bursting to share with you our best kept secrets from each of these countries.
![Guides](/us/-/media/new-images/hero-images/europe/europe-resized.jpg?sc_lang=en-us?w=320&hash=055F367EF18F137F0BA4BF27F88ED3D5 320w,
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All so different and varied we have created guides so you can get the best out of each of them. How to miss the crowds in Rome, where best to capture the insta-perfect sunset in Santorini, where to sample the best baklava or what clothes to pack for your ski trip, we are here to make your trip as seamless and relaxing as possible.
To whet your appetite and inspire your imagination, we’ve put together a number of guides for Europe which answer some of the questions we get asked most frequently.
![Christmas Markets](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/estonia_christmas-market_733918069.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
November and December are fantastic months to visit Europe and experience its magical Christmas markets. Soak up the festive atmosphere as you listen to traditional carols, pick up beautiful traditional handicrafts, and enjoy specialty foods and drinks as you wind through stalls surrounded by miles of twinkling fairy lights.
![Rural European Hideaways](https://images.scottdunn.com/t_extr_medium_img/europe/greece/840308292021.jpeg)
We’ve selected our favorite rural European hideaways, each offering something seriously special away from the crowds. From the verdant vineyards of Portugal’s Douro Valley to the fresh mountain air of Andalucia, Europe never fails to amaze us. Retreat to the total seclusion of these rural properties and forget about the world for a while.
![Our Guide to The Alps](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/italy_braies-lake_1663165363.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
When Africa bumped into Europe millennia ago the force of the collision created the Alps, Europe’s highest, most extensive mountain range. So came the soaring peaks, crevasse-laced glaciers and sparkling rivers and lakes of a massif that meanders through France, Monaco, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Slovenia, Liechtenstein and Germany.
![European Michelin Star Restaurants](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/michelin-cuisine__307694537.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
If you’d like to venture out for a truly remarkable gastronomic experience while on vacation in the Europe, here are some restaurant ideas near some of our villas and resorts, all of which have been awarded Michelin stars.
![Head North for Winter](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/norway_lofoten_603213647.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
For us, a winter escape is not all about seeking out the slopes or the sun. Instead, it is the snow dusted wonderlands of northern Europe, the breath-taking landscapes of the Arctic Circle, the endless adventure offering of Scandinavia and the luxurious boltholes of Iceland that tick all our travel boxes for a snowy sojourn.
![Year Round Europe](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/italy_tuscany_192071462.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
For little ones and loved ones, thrill seekers and chill seekers, curious minds and curious palates, Europe has got it all. Year round, the continent is full of seasonal surprises perfect for a short haul getaway come rain, shine or snow.
![Our Guide to Lapland](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/lapland_514868092.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
Most of Lapland is in Scandinavia, occupying a third of Finland and Norway and covering the northern reaches of Sweden, even parts of Russia. It’s synonymous with snow blanketed landscapes waiting to be explored by husky or reindeer drawn sled and delivers year round beauty and unique experiences.
![Our Guide to Nordic Countries](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/arctic-circle_northern-lights_1538243720.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
Looking for a family adventure with forays through Nordic cuisine, great winter activities, beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife in Scandinavia, or a romantic retreat? Then this 'best for' guide is for you.
![Our Guide to Spain & Portugal](/us/-/media/new-childbox-images/europe/spanish-cuisine_103507949.jpg?sc_lang=en-us)
An intoxicating mixture of soul stirring scenery, world class cuisine, captivating cities and passionate people, Spain and Portugal have long been on our radar as two of Europe’s most loved vacation destinations. Yet while the Peninsula has for years promised sun and sangria, it is the endless charm of Andalucía, the tantalising foodie scene of San Sebastian and the untamed coastline of the Atlantic that have captured our attention over and over again, turning our heads – and our travel plans – towards these countries. Feast your eyes on our handpicked selection of itineraries, experiences and hotels to inspire your next vacation.