By Rick Steves In a country of superlatives, Gullfoss waterfall is a top sight on Iceland’s Golden Circle route. (photo: Cameron Hewitt) Iceland may be cold and remote, but in recent years, this island nation, long considered too out-of-the-way for most travelers, has become a can’t-miss destination — especially after Icelandair started luring Americans with […]
By Rick Steves One of the best ways to see the University of Cambridge is by punting on the River Cam. (photo: Cameron Hewitt) Cambridge and Oxford have been in a centuries-long competition as England’s top two universities — but I’ve always felt that seeing one is enough. The big question is: Which one? For […]
The endless security lines at the airport may seem torturous — but they are child’s play compared with what heretics and criminals faced in the Middle Ages. Medieval torture was used both to extract confessions and to punish the convicted prior to execution. Torturers (who were often clergy) had a huge toolkit with which to […]
By Rick Steves The Bavarian town of Füssen has a rich history and evocative corners beyond its cobbled core. (photo: Cameron Hewitt) Like those of so many travelers, my mental images of Germany — cute villages, dirndls and lederhosen, and fairy-tale castles — come from southern Bavaria, in the foothills of the Alps. You could […]
By Rick Steves Sampling Europe’s regional spirits and liqueurs can be a cultural experience — and connect you to the locals. (photo: Dominic Bonuccelli) Finishing dinner at Rome’s Ristorante da Fortunato, my friend Stefano explains that his greatest joy is an after-dinner drink called grappa. I try my best to enjoy the local firewater and […]
By Rick Steves The church inside Tomar’s Convento de Cristo, designed at the height of Portugal’s sea power, is covered with elaborate motifs. (photo: Rick Steves) With a rich culture, friendly people, affordable prices, and a salty setting on the edge of Europe, Portugal understandably makes a rewarding destination for travelers. Bustling Lisbon and the […]
By Rick Steves With their Greco-Roman themes and incomparable beauty, the gardens at Versailles were built to illustrate the immense power of the king. (photo: Rick Steves) The royal families of the past — like those of the present — were fond of their countryside getaways. These lavish retreats provided an escape from the city […]
By Rick Steves Near Chamonix, these “telecabines” float riders from France into Italy for Europe’s most exciting border crossing. (photo: Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli) Stretching across roughly 750 miles, Europe’s highest mountain range, the Alps, arcs across eight countries, from the Mediterranean coast of France to the eastern fringes in Austria and Slovenia. Along the way, […]
By Rick Steves To reserve a tee time at the scenic Old Course of the St. Andrews Links, you’ll need to book a year ahead — and pay a pretty penny. (photo: Cameron Hewitt) Tiny St. Andrews has a huge reputation, known around the world as the birthplace and royal seat of golf. The chance […]
By Rick Steves The pointed arches of Gothic cathedrals allow for dramatic stained-glass windows, such as the ones in Chartres’ cathedral. (photo: Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli) Despite many years of traveling to France, I still can’t help but marvel at the towering Gothic churches that mark the heart of many French cities. I like to imagine […]