January is here and for many people, it’s a time of the year when they start to plan their travel adventures for the forthcoming 12 months.
Here we select five European cities well worth making the time to visit this year.
List of Best 5 European Cities You Should Visit This Year
Edinburgh
There’s never a dull moment in the Scottish capital. Every year starts and ends in style with the world-famous Hogmanay celebrations and another highlight of the cultural calendar takes places in August when the Fringe Festival attracts visitors from all over the world.
In terms of accommodation and affordable hotels, Edinburgh has something to fit every budget and other attractions include Edinburgh Castle, the daily gun salute at 1 pm and the National Museum of Scotland.
London
The eyes of the world will be in London later this year when the city hosts the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. Countless venues across London will stage a variety of events, from archery to wrestling – and you can be a part of it all, either by purchasing tickets or by popping along to one of the designated fan parks where you’ll be able to watch all the action unfold on giant screens.
Another event to keep an eye on this year is the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, while London has an array of attractions to head to – many are free to enter like the Tate Modern –all year round.
Madrid
Many people when selecting a Spanish city to visit immediately set their hearts of going to Barcelona, yet Madrid is well worth a visit. The city center is made up of a labyrinth of streets lined with shops, restaurants, and bars and if you’re in search of a little culture then the Museo del Prado is home to works from the likes of Picasso.
The Royal Palace of Madrid is another attraction you might want to consider checking out, while you can take an interesting tour of the Santiago Bernabeu, home to Real Madrid, one of the most successful sporting teams.
Maribor
Did you know that Maribor along with Guimarães in Portugal is the 2012 European capital of culture?
The Slovenian city is bracing itself for a whirlwind next 12 months as it prepares to welcome an influx of tourists keen to learn more about this often overlooked part of Europe.
There’s stunning architecture to marvel at in the form of a Franciscan Church and the picturesque Rotovski trg square in the old town, or alternatively, treat yourself to a spot of retail therapy at the city’s huge shopping center.
Munich
German cities don’t come much friendlier than Munich, especially when Oktoberfest gets underway at the end of September.
Oktoberfest is something you should experience at least once in your lifetime along with a trip to the Hofbrauhaus, which is thought to be the world’s largest pub.
The beer served here is quite unlike anything you’ll ever taste anywhere else, while the food lovers among you should definitely make a pilgrimage to Viktualienmarkt, which is a daily food market serving up all manner of tasty treats.
