Sintra, Portugal

Sintra Portugal by Pedro Ribeiro Simoes, Creative Commons License

If you love beautiful mansions and castles, Sintra, Portugal is your kind of town. This a romantic European town that is perched on a cliff. The palace and gardens of Quinta de Regaleira and Palacio Nacional da Pena  are must-see destinations in Sintra. You can spend hours wandering through the streets and gazing at and photographing the enchanting architecture of Sintra’s castle’s and churches. Many of the buildings are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Colmar, France

Colmar, France  by Russ Bowling, Creative Commons License

Located in the Northeastern region in France, Colmar is near Switzerland and Germany. Colmar looks like it is a destination right out of a fairy tale. The city is nicknamed the City of Lights because of its magical  illumination of the buildings and waterways on Fridays, Saturdays, and major holidays.

Bre Village, Switzerland

Bre Village by Randi Hausken, Creative Commons License

Bre is a tiny town with a population of about 300 people. Most visitors enjoy visiting the top of Mount Bre and taking a look at the inspiring view of the town and Lake Lugano. Either walk or take the funicular. It’s up to you, but you’ll love the view.

Manarola, Italy

Manarola Italy by Ray Pilla, Creative Common License

Perfectly picturesque, the colorful buildings in Manarola, Italy are certainly eye-catching.  Take a boat tour, a walking tour, or simply meander on your own. The village of Manarola is one of five villages in Cinque de Terre. Travelers are advised to use the public transportation systems, trains or ferries to get to and from other town, because the villages do not really have ample parking. On pleasant days and with an able body, you could even hike to nearby tows.

Monaco, France

Monaco by Adomas Svirskas, Creative Commons License

Monaco is a tiny town, only three miles long, between the French Riviera and the Italian Riviera. It is home of the Monaco Grand Prix, and another popular pass-time includes soaking in the sun and sipping cool beverages on the beach.

Slider Photo Credit: Lugano Switzerland by Selden Vestrit, CC

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