There are very special places that enjoy an interesting history as well as an extraordinary heritage of the arts and culture. This page offers you an opportunity to discover sources of information about this kind of destination and the memorable experiences they offer.    Locations listed after  this icon are special destinations with a link to local expertise.   

AUSTRIA                                            

A fiacre in Old Vienna

No other royal line on the continent lasted so long, left its mark on so many centuries, or so many countries as the Habsburgs.  Their Golden Ages were also high points in the cultural, artistic, and scholarly development of Europe.  No country enjoys more associations with the Habsburgs than Austria and no city enjoys more links to this great dynasty than the Imperial city of Vienna.  The following city/links (in bold) will take you to tourism organizations in the selected destinations .

 Arlberg Where the rich and famous come to ski and be seen.   Graz This beautiful city, was favored by Emperor Frederick and the cultural capital of Europe for 2003.     Innsbruck  Fine examples of the Baroque Age are the Imperial Palace, Abbey of Wilten, Hall of the Diet, mansions and patrician residences.  Linz  Linz offers a vast range of varieties for planning your stay a walking tour, a ride on the Linz City Express, a visit to the Pöstlingberg with all its attractions or taste endless delicacies at the markets.   Editor's note:  Linz will be the European Capital of Culture in 2009.    Salzburg  Until 1803, Salzburg was an independent church state ruled by prince-archbishops.  So connections with the Habsburgs are quite recent. Tirol  Welcome to the Hall-Wattens region.  Awaiting you here are ten picturesque villages (Absam, Baumkirchen, Fritzens, Gnadenwald, Mils, Thaur, Tulfes, Volders, Wattenberg and Wattens) and finally, Hall in Tirol, one of Austria's most beautiful towns.  Among the leading attractions are the historic town of Hall in Tirol, Swarovski's Crystal Worlds and Hall's Mint Tower, but not forgetting the Pilgrimage Church in Absam.     Vienna  Austria's capital has enjoyed a special position in imperial history since the election of Rudolf I as Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.  Today, Vienna is a marvelous and very sophisticated city offering visitors historical, arts and cultural treasures.

Art Nouveau in Brussels

BELGIUM

"There’s just something about Belgium. Maybe it’s the friendly & welcoming people, who with three official languages still find it easy to converse in English, the 4th unofficial language. Maybe it’s the stunning architecture decorating the quaint cobblestone squares. Or perhaps it’s the incredible cuisine found in the vast array of restaurants where each meal seems better than the last. Energetic and carefree, the overall mood in Belgium is infectious, summoning in all of us to live as Belgians and enjoy life to the fullest.  This little kingdom, about the size of the state of Maryland, is Europe in a nutshell.  It is brimming with medieval cities, quaint towns and villages, gothic cathedrals,  town halls and castles."  

Links to tourism organizations in the following Belgian destinations.

Antwerp  "Home of the Flemish Baroque master Rubens, not only has a  wealth of outstanding museums, picturesque galleries, sculpted streets and beautiful architecture, but is also laced with refreshing greenery and urban haunts.   Brugge "Upon visiting Bruges, you will immediately notice that this city has always carefully cherished its architectural and artistic treasures from the past.   What makes Bruges so typical though, is the way it deals with this past today.  The people of Bruges would like to invite you to join them and to enjoy it as much as they do."  Brussels is a city of contrasts with enormous diversity when it comes to places of interest and things to do.  The Grand Place, with its ornate baroque and gothic guild houses, is usually the first port of call for most visitors to Brussels and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Built as a merchants market in the 13th century, it serves as the center of the city and is a great place to experience Belgian hospitality at one of the many terrace cafes dotting the charming square. It also serves as a venue for numerous concerts and events throughout the year and during the warmer months is adorned by a vibrant, daily flower market.  Flanders  "The historic cities of Flanders share a heritage of cobbled streets, guild houses, churches,  cathedrals and monuments.  Ghent  "In medieval times, Ghent was the second largest city in northwestern Europe after Paris.  In the historic heart of the city, visitors can explore traces of the Middle Ages."  Tournai  This, the ' Cité des Cinq Clochers ' (the town of the five towers) welcomes and invites you to its festivities and the rhythm of the seasons at the borders of the Walloon provinces of Belgium.   Tournai is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tournai cathedral one of the most beautiful religious monuments in the Western world, and the Belfry of Tournai which is the oldest building of it's type in Belgium and Northern Europe.   Ypres  was one of the main martyr towns of the First World War. A few months after the German invasion of Belgium on  August 4th, 1914, the front came to a standstill near the small, mediaeval town. From October 1914 to October 1918 the battlefield was barely a few kilometers away from the town centre. The trenches ran from north to south in an arc around Ypres. In this famous Ypres Salient no fewer than five bloody battles were fought."

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C Z E C H

R E P U B L I C

"A crossroads of European cultures throughout its long history, the Czech Republic remains a leading cultural destination to this day. Prague: a modern metropolis, city of bridges, cathedrals, towers and domes with a wonderful heritage of great architecture.

Note: Czech Center New York (the only Czech Center outside of Europe) is part of a network of 19 Czech Centers abroad administered by the Czech Center headquarters in Prague a subsidiary of the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  Its presence in the U.S. dates to 1995, when the Czech Center New York was granted the status of Miscellaneous Foreign Government Office

ESTONIA

In Estonia, one can travel from one end of the country to another in just four or five hours without having to rush. People from larger countries sometimes find it odd that there are in fact no distant places in Estonia.

FRANCE

Château de Cheverny

Maison de la France:  the National Tourism Organization of France and the producers of FranceGuide.com

Links to tourism organizations in the following destinations.

Bordeaux  The squares of Old Bordeaux are superb examples of 18th and19th century architecture.  The Old Religious Quarter reflects the wealth of the city in medieval times.  Cannes  Between festivals and major events, Cannes lives to the beat of the arts year 'round.   Evian  www.eviantourism.comGuerande  The wall of this fortified medieval city, bolstered by six towers and  four gates is one of the best preserved in all of France. Discover thatched cottages, period homes, mansions, public buildings and the Collegiate Church.  La Baule With beautiful south-facing sandy beaches, this picturesque seaside town is reminiscent of Belle Epoch lifestyles.  Le Mans  Saint Julian Cathedral is one of the largest in France and the most prominent feature of this Royal Plantagenet City.  Old Le Mans offers the visitors a glimpse on Renaissance times and the Classical period.  Parks, gardens, museums and great restaurants make for  enjoyable explorations.  A fine museum at Le Mans Raceway illustrates a history of the automobile.   Loire Valley  A region with a wealth of monuments, parks and gardens, chateaus, picturesque towns and villages.  Western Loire  This is a place of the chateau, manor houses, abbeys and churches, formal gardens, spacious parks and spectacular beaches.  At chateaux such as Brissac, Le Lude and Goulaine, which are still family homes, the past is part of the present.  See the burial place of three English Kings at Fontevraud, marvel at the cathedrals and churches of Le Mans, Evron, La Ferte-Bernard or Guerande.   Nice  A city with a rich architectural and cultural heritage.  You may wander the narrow streets of the old town, then stroll along the famous promenade before entering the heart of the city.  Paris  This world class city is known for its museums, monuments, and boulevards lined with cafes, restaurants, designer  shopping and nightlife.  Reims  Famous for four monuments listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO: Notre Dame Cathedral, The Tau Palace, The St. Remi Basilica and the St. Remi Museum.  Saumur  To discover Saumur is to follow in the footsteps of the founding monks of Fontevraud, Plantagenet Kings and master horse riders of France  Strasbourg In the shadow of its magnificent cathedral, are a wealth of  museums, shops, cafes and restaurants.  You may also cruise its waterways,  viewing this visual treat from a whole new perspective.  Toulouse  From the River Garonne, to the Canal Du Midi, Toulouse offers many opportunities for discovery. 

The Hall of Mirrors, Versailles

 Versailles  In the XVIIth and the XVIIIth centuries the royal estate of

Versailles was the main home of kings Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI. Closed

during the Revolution, it was transformed into museum in the XIXth century by the

last king having reigned in France, Louis-Philippe.  In the Chateau, the State

Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, the Chapel, the King's Chamber, the Opera and he

" Grand " and the " Petit Trianon "are popular with visitors to Versailles as are the

French formal gardens, the Coach Museum or the room of  "Jeu de Paume 

Follow this link to visit the Château de Versailles on-line  The Vendee 

The Poitevin Marshes, at the heart of the Vendée’s Atlantic seaboard, form a region

of greenery and waterways, a place rich in fabulous discoveries that open out in a

mosaic of landscapes that bear the imprint of man’s influence over the last ten

centuries    A Very Special Experience  Puy du Fou, a major historically

based theme park on a 40 hectare site that offers authentic replications of eras in

French history from earliest times to the 20th century.  Editor's Note:  With a cast

of 1000 players La Cinescenie ® portrays the story of France in the most

compelling multi media enactment we have ever witnessed.

Follow this link to visit Rhone-Alpes TV the travel channel in English

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GERMANY

"Germany enjoys a history of three centuries as a major tourism destination.  It offers the visitor a blend of old world traditions, as well as the finest contemporary living.  Its arts and culture make it one of Europe's favorite destinations."

Links to tourism and cultural organizations in the following destinations in Germany

Aachen "The city has a flair and atmosphere of its own. The attractive layout of the old city centre, the important historic monuments, the wells and baths over the hottest natural springs in Europe, the bustling activity in the streets and squares, the cultural diversity and quality and the many recreational and leisure activities make Aachen an exciting and pleasing whole."  Arnstadt  "An inviting countryside, vast forests, and world-class cultural centers."  Berlin
"This great city attracts visitors from all over the world with its unique mix of history and modern times, Eastern and Western Europe, classic and contemporary architecture, arts and culture."  Bremen A famously historic city - 1,200 years have woven a rich tapestry of Hanseatic heritage and cosmopolitan culture in Bremen. Strife for independence left an indelible mark on the city. Today, Bremen and Bremerhaven are near neighbors banded together in a two-city state, which is Germany’s smallest Federal state from sixteen.  Brühl The pearl of the Erft district, offers an exemplary selection in the fields of culture, gastronomic enjoyment, leisure and sport, as well as the natural environment.  The Augustusburg electoral palace is a cultural and historical highlight of the town. Its grand European history can be traced back to medieval times.  Cologne This "Old Town" is not really all that old. After it's destruction during World War II, the people of Cologne lovingly rebuilt it. Today its narrow lanes and many original pubs attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Whether you want to relax in the park along the Rhine called Rheingarten or enjoy a Kölsch in one of the typical breweries – it is worth while to take a look.  Dessau  The Bauhaus Building together with the Masters' Houses and the Garden Realm Dessau-Woerlitz are adopted to the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage.  Dresden After the floods of 2002, Dresden is now fully recovered and better than ever.  Erfurt  The capital city of  Thuringia (Thüringen) located in the "green heart of Germany".  Frankfurt  Where Goethe was born, and  its innumerable cultural and historical treasures, famous museums and active art scene.  Goslar Old Town, strongly influenced by mining, also belongs to the world heritage site. The Imperial Palace built under the Ottonians was extended by the Salian emperors to form their biggest palace complex.  Leipzig has a reputation as a city of music, historic associations with Bach, an opera company dating to 1693, and Gewand House Orchestra founded in 1743, making it the oldest city orchestra in Germany.  Link: Leipzig City of Music   Lubeck  Let yourself be swept away by the incomparable atmosphere of the Hanseatic city of Lübeck. This means moments bursting with beautiful panoramas and one-of-a-kind sights.   The 15th century fortified gate is a landmark of Lübeck, and  symbol of the fortified medieval town - the former Queen of the Hanseatic League.  Munich The legacy of seven centuries of rule by the Wittelsbach Family is foundation for Munich's present day importance as a centre of European culture.  Potsdam  The Brandenburg State Capital and former centre of Prussia with its castles and gardens which are part of UNESCO’s world cultural heritage.  Quedlinburg The Old Town covers an area of some 80 hectares. UNESCO declared it to be an outstanding example of a European city of medieval origin which has preserved through the centuries its precious architectural heritage of Romanesque and half-timbered buildings, partly in exceptional quality. Quedlinburg was at the heart of the East Franconian Empire at the time of the Saxon dynasty - the Ottonians.  Reichenau The itinerant Bishop Pirmin knew already in the year 724, why he had taken up residence and found a monastery on this island in the "Untersee", even as it was really inhospitable at that time. During three centuries, the monastery had an extraordinary heyday. Until today, the magnificent churches are showing this "cradle of occidental culture". With the "Reiche Au", which means Rich Island, with its fertile grounds and the rich fishing grounds, the islanders have created a jewel.  Trier The Romans founded Trier in 16 B.C. By the end of the 3rd Century the city was an Imperial Residence and capital of the West-Roman Empire. Six emperors held court here, and as early as the 4th century, Trier had a population of 80,000.    Upper Middle Rhine Valley The history that is visible even today in the towns and villages of the Middle Rhine Valley, to some degree goes back to Roman times. In the high Middle Ages, the region represented one of the core locations of the Holy Roman Empire. The struggle for the control over the Rhine since the 13th century resulted in numerous fortified towns on the banks of the river. The wealth of the region at the time is expressed by many ambitious buildings.  Wartburg The Palais, the main building of the medieval castle, was constructed between 1155 and 1180. It is one of the best preserved secular buildings of the late Romanesque period north of the Alps, and it is surely one of the most beautiful.   Weimar A UNESCO world heritage city known to Goethe, Bach, and Liszt.  

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GREECE

Greece is famous worldwide as the cradle of human civilization. All visitors may easily visit museums, archaeological sites, monuments, cultural centers throughout the country, all year round.

HOLLAND 

The Netherlands

Holland: beautiful countryside, vibrant cities, picturesque villages, rich in history, arts and culture.    

Links to tourism and cultural organization in the following destinations in Holland.

Amsterdam A compact city so you are never far from your destination.  "Quaint districts" include The Red Light district, "Jordaan" with bars restaurants and shops, "Museums Quarter," "KNSM Island", "De Pijp" home to artist, writers, laborers a real melting pot, and fashionable "Between the Canals".   The Hague With its broad tree lined boulevards Holland's Royal city is long on history and tradition.  More information  Maastricht Holland's most southern city is a culinary delight and a shopper's heaven. Stroll past the historic sights, and enjoy the atmosphere of energy and relaxation.  More info   Rotterdam Holland's "other" city. The city on the Maas, which the Dutch call Manhattan on the Maas, it's a young, exciting place with great architecture and an exciting culture.  More info   Utrecht The old medieval center of Utrecht kindles a passion for the past! Stroll along the century-old canals, and past the stately houses and wharves. More info

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HUNGARY

This small country, brimming with culture and natural beauty, proudly possesses one of the finest capital cities in the world, Budapest. Uniquely, it is also endowed with two-thousand-year-old Roman remains, four-hundred-year-old monuments from the Turkish period, beautiful Romanesque churches, examples of the pinnacle of neo-Gothic and art nouveau architecture, and castles that are still imposing even though they have long since fallen into ruin.

Budapest  This city, brimming with arts and cultural treasures has a great tradition in hosting special events and prestigious festivals: each of the four seasons has its own festival in Budapest.  The Hungarian capital is also the centre of the country's theatrical and music life. 

IRELAND

River Liffey, Dublin

What separates Ireland from it neighbors is the arresting beauty of the land, the turbulent history of the island, the broad smile that welcomes your arrival and the heartfelt farewell that signals your departure. Discover Ireland, it's yours to enjoy  

Dublin Driving in this city is definitely not for the faint of heart but almost

everything else in Dublin is highly enjoyable.    Shannon Region The West

of Ireland’s ‘Shannon Region’ is a special place where visitors can refresh their

spirits away from the frenetic cities and towns of the world. The Region covers

counties Clare, Limerick, North Tipperary and South Offaly.

ITALY

Visit Travelit Consulting

Italy has more of the world's great art than any other country.  When not immersed in cultural pursuits the visitor can indulge in marvelous food, wonderful wines, fashionable shopping and enjoying everything Italian.

Links to tourism and cultural organization in the following Italian destinations.

Genoa Co Cultural Capital of Europe for 2004  Milan can trace it's impeccable cultural credentials to the Visconti and Sforza families who ruled from the 13th century through the Renaissance.  Today Milan is Italy's capital of the media, design and fashion.  Pisa Pisa has so much more to offer than simply the spectacular leaning tower for which it has become so famous.  Rome This ancient city is a must for travelers who visit Italy.  Its artistic and architectural heritage is justifiably world famous.  Great shopping, outstanding cuisine wonderful entertainment.  Venice is filled with museums and buildings of great historical and artistic importance. 

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Alfresco dining in beautiful Liechtenstein.

LIECHTENSTEIN

With an area of only 61.8 sq miles, Liechtenstein is the fourth smallest state in Europe.   Despite its diminutive size, the country has a very eventful history more recently characterized by a post World War II transition from an agrarian society to  a highly developed economy with an infrastructure that has attracted numerous international corporations (such as Hilti, Swarovski, Krupp Presta, Ivoclar, Unaxis) to headquarter in Liechtenstein.  As a consequence of this, Liechtenstein is one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

The Princely House of Liechtenstein is one of the oldest existing noble families in Europe. The family has over 100 members, with only a few who reside in the Principality of Liechtenstein.

Vianden Castle, Luxembourg

LUXEMBOURG

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is an independent sovereign state with borders adjoining Belgium, France and Germany.  The country is divided into two clearly defined regions: -The "Eisléck" or "Oesling" in the north, which is part of the Ardennes.  The "Good country" in the Center and the South, covering the remaining territory, is mainly rolling farmland and woods.  Small in size, big on interesting things to do.

The origins and the name of Luxembourg are intimately linked with one person, and with one place.

The City of Luxembourg, is the capital of the Grand Duchy.  This is a city with an ancient, turbulent past, and an optimistic outlooks on the future. Luxembourg boasts an array of historical and cultural sights that are well worth seeing.  Interesting and picturesque spots to discover make it easier to discover the former “Gibraltar of the North.”

MONACO  

The Casino, Monte Carlo

Monte-Carlo, a district of the Principality of Monaco, was created in 1866, in honor of Prince Charles III, hosts an internationally famous Casino, luxury hotels and leisure facilities, some created recently: Larvotto beach, the Monte Carlo Sporting Club, the Boulingrins Gardens.

A  Glamorous Lifestyle in a Magical Setting

Basking between enchanting French Medieval villages and the ski trails of the Alps, Monte Carlo is an exquisite emerald in a setting of craggy rocks rising from the azure-blue of Mediterranean Sea. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and mild temperatures, it celebrates with passion the arts, culture, outstanding cuisine, restoration of mind and body, and high-adrenaline activities like the Formula One Grand Prix, casino gaming, land and water sports and exciting nightlife. The magnificent design, decor and service of its hotels more than meet expectations, while experienced destination management companies specialize in unique events

Queluz National Palace, Queluz Sintra

PORTUGAL

Modern day Portugal enjoys along  legacy dating from pre- history to Roman Moorish and Celtic influences on its culture.  On the bank of the river Tagus, Lisbon is a city whose legendary history stretches back over twenty centuries.  The maritime Voyages of Discovery turned Lisbon into one of the world’s great ports and the centre of an empire that stretched from Brazil in the West to India in the East. On the banks of the river, great monuments testify to that history.

After the earthquake of 1755, the Baixa Pombalina downtown was rebuilt in the classical style while many of its adjoining medieval neighborhoods survived and are now home to an amazing array of stores, restaurants and cafés.  Lisbon’s exceptional and highly individualistic light has charmed writers, photographers and filmmakers with the polychrome façade tiles serving to create a particular atmosphere.

Lisbon  Lisbon's historical quarters (Lisboa) are generally in the city centre.  Some still retain the old structures of Muslim and medieval origin, with courtyards where people usually gather. The typical features of these quarters are old houses, narrow streets, wrought-iron balconies, tiled façades and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.  The best and most pleasant way to visit these quarters is by "eléctrico" (tram). And be sure not to miss a stroll by the River Tagus and lunch at the Santo Amaro docks.

RUSSIA

At this time, we know of no reliable tourism resources for Russia 

SAN MARINO

Thousands of years of tradition in an ancient medieval town.  

In San Marino evocative traditions are based on authentic, documented history which saw the ancient standard raised, the sound of the clarions blaring and the cross-bows taking aim. Never attacking, but ever defending ancient freedoms. Every year for a full week the various  historic centre undergoes a metamorphosis; the multi-coloured daytime tourist paths become a  of  living theatre where actors create a climate of colours, notes and emotion

Editor's note:  San Marino, located on Mt. Titano in north central Italy, is 24 square miles and has 29,000 residents. The country claims to be the oldest state in Europe, having been founded in the fourth century.

THE

SCANDINAVIAN

COUNTRIES

Cities in Norway tend to be small compared to their counterparts in other European countries.  However, this makes for easy movement as you explore a culture that includes Vikings, famous authors, actors, composers and artists.

 SWEDEN

From untouched wilderness, to  relaxing on a cruise in the island-rich archipelago, or standing on the top of a snow-covered mountain, to hanging out at a bar at one of Europe's finest nightclubs, this is Sweden where life is to be enjoyed.    

Plaza de Platerías, Santiago de Compostela

SPAIN

Links to tourism and cultural organizations in the following  destinations in Spain

Barcelona  Barcelona is a modern, cosmopolitan city on the sea.  A city which is the perfect place for a stroll. Barcelona opens its doors so that you can enjoy its wealth of history and culture, its attractive range of shops, excellent cuisine, and a whole host of leisure attractions.  The climate, the Mediterranean light, the people, the beaches and its atmosphere invite you to experience it to the fullest at any time of the day or night  Granada  The history of Granada can be dated back further than even ancient times, perhaps its founding lay at the hands of Noah’s daughter or, conversely, the daughter of Hercules named Granata
History, invariably an aesthetic option, assures us that in Granada there once stood important Iberian and Roman settlements.  Though its origins of both the Alhambra and Generalife are confused, there are clear remains from the 9th century, the Alhambra’s most brilliant creations date from the Nasrid Empire and the reign of Carlos V, between the 13th and 16th centuries.  Madrid The history of Madrid dates from its 9th century origins by the Moors.  A modern city offering visitors a wide variety of arts and cultural attractions including an architectural heritage of the highest quality.       Features a preserved medieval village, a quarter known as Madrid of the Austrian, the Plaza Mayor the Plaza de la Villa with a superb Baroque City Hall Building, and the Royal Palace.  The Museo del Prado heads an impressive list of museums, galleries and botanical gardens. Seville  Numerous and varied cultures have been present in Seville's history. The city's cultural, monumental and artistic legacy gained over the centuries can be admired in it's streets and museums. Seville's dark origins have provided legends such as the one that attributes Hercules as it's founder. In order to appreciate the ancient history of Seville, one must visit the Museo Arqueológico (Archaeological Museum), a spectacular site in itself; once a Pavilion of the 1929 Exhibition. Here one can observe the remains of cultures that traveled from across the Mediterranean, bringing with them their distant gods.  Toledo is one of the Spanish cities with the greatest wealth of monuments. Known as the “city of the three cultures”, because Christians, Arabs and Jews lived together there for centuries, behind its walls Toledo preserves an artistic and cultural legacy in the form of churches, palaces, fortresses, mosques and synagogues. This great diversity of artistic styles makes the old quarter of the capital of La Mancha a real open-air museum, which has led to it being declared a World Heritage Site.

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SWITZERLAND

Links to tourism organizations in the following Swiss destinations.

Lucerne  The “Quality Label for Swiss Tourism” programme is supported by all major Swiss tourism associations. Its purpose is to encourage establishments to enhance and safeguard the quality of service in Switzerland.   Baden  (Baden (Zurich Region) (no local website, visit My Switzerland The Roman spa city of Baden has kept much of its earlier appearance, with the old town stamped by late-Gothic style. City tower, church and town hall bear witness to the city's high status in old Switzerland. Baden was also the seat of the Brown and Boveri industrial families. It is to their passion for Impressionism that the city owes its gratitude for the Langmatt Museum, one of Switzerland's loveliest art collections.  Basel  In this former centre of humanist scholarship, art and culture still occupy an important position.  With the city's enormous range of culinary and cultural offerings, visitors may enjoy themselves to the fullest.Bern  The Old Town of Bern has been featured in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1983.  Take a stroll around this fabulous cultural site and enjoy the charm of the covered arcades, cobbled streets and decorated facades. Also of note are: the Cathedral, Clock Tower, Bear Pits, Houses of Parliament and Bundesplatz, River Aare, over 100 fountains, arcades, Zoological Gardens.  These and many more are key sights of Bern.  Chur  (no local website, visit My Switzerland) The "gateway to Graubünden", Chur, is proud of its 5000-year-old cultural history. This considered Switzerland's' oldest settlement, with a city centre that retains an old-town charm. The influence of neighbouring countries is still evident in the Gothic old town (built in the 15th & 16th centuries) and testifies to the skill of Italian master builders.  Geneva  "The smallest of the big capital cities boasts a wide array of music, opera, theatre, musicals, dance and cinema events, as well as an exciting nightlife."  Interlaken  This capital of Switzerland's Bernese Oberland is located between the lakes of Thun and Brienz, at the foot of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.   Lausanne Dominated by the Old Town, bearing witness to its rich medieval past with its Gothic Cathedral and historic homes, has its opera, theatres, corps de ballet, musical ensembles, museums and Summer festivals – a really  exceptional European city of art and culture!.  Locarno, Ticino (no local website, visit My Switzerland)  The Piazza Grande is the heart of Locarno's city centre. In the old town, patrician houses with concealed balconies bear witness to the supremacy of this once-wealthy trading metropolis. The Casa Rusca Gallery is one of Locarno's most beautiful palaces: its huge collection includes works by celebrated Dadaists. Galleries, shops and cafés line the lanes of this city which boasts the mildest climate in Switzerland. Locarno`s landmark is the pilgrimage church of Madonna del Sasso - a place of prayer with extraordinary views over the lake and mountains. Lucerne  Whether it be opera or theater, contemporary dance or cabaret, technological rarities from the history of transportation, precious works by Picasso and Klee, a large-scale panorama painting, findings from the Stone Age, folklore from the region, doubtful records and comical events, concerts and festivals with classical or modern music, world music or folk music - Lucerne has the right program for every cultural taste.  Lugano  The architectural beauty of Lugano, Switzerland's third most important banking city, is awe-inspiring. It's no wonder that over the last 50 years, Ticino has become one of the most important regions in terms of architecture. The most renowned representatives of the Ticino School are Luigi Snozzi and Mario Botta. Botta`s Banca del Gottardo building on Viale Franscini, Palazzo Ransila on Via Pretorio and his atelier on the Via Ciani are examples of his striking style.  Lake Maggiore Region  Lake Maggiore or Verbano, Switzerland's second largest basin, with its blue waters offers nature, parks, reserves, mountains, flowers, valleys and everything you could wish for in an invigorating filled with relaxation and excitement!  A mountain range encloses the lake basin: dominating this incredible landscape is the huge Alpine chain of Monte Rosa, Europe’s second highest peak.   Only 50km as the crow flies separate Lake Maggiore’s waters from this “Himalayan” region with mountaintops that reach over 4000 metres in height.   St Gallen  This UNESCO World Heritage Site, a lake adjoining three countries in the north of Switzerland are the main elements of the region St.Gallen-Lake Constance.  Come and experience the city of books close to the beautiful landscape of the "Swabian Sea"!   St. Moritz St. Moritz is one of the most famous holiday resorts in the world, and its name is synonymous with quality and elegance.  Stein am Rhein (visit My Switzerland)  Stein am Rhein, a picturesque country town in the county of Schaffhausen, is a medieval gem that exudes tranquility and charm - painted facades, pretty oriels and a riverside promenade invite you to stroll and enjoy the sights.   The square is bordered by houses with painted facades and neat bays, and by splendid half-timbered houses. Overlooking the town is the Castle of Hohenklingen, built into the forest and vineyards. St. Georgen, a very well preserved Benedictine Cloister, was built from the 14th to the 16th century, and is, together with the museum, well worth visiting.   Winterthur  The sixth largest city in Switzerland with around 96,000 inhabitants and the largest interconnected pedestrianized area in Europe is waiting for you. The city’s medieval centre pulsates at every hour of the day. Shops, restaurants, markets and festivals bring the historical walls alive. The varied cultural offer, from experimental theatre to internationally-famed museums, will thrill all culture enthusiasts.  Zurich  In Zürich everything is that bit smaller - but with so many things to do, this simply means you have all the more time for an unforgettable visit.  Located next to Lake Zürich with stunning views of the Swiss Alps, this exciting city is just 10 minutes away from its international airport. 

Links to Regional Tourism Offices

Lake Geneva Region

The Matterhorn Region  

Related Article

Stein am Rhein - Window on the Middle Ages

THE  U N I T E D  K I N G D O M

The British Tourist Authority

ENGLAND

Choir Stalls St Pauls Cathedral, London

There is so much to explore in this land of historic cities, towns and villages. You may pursue your discovery on dramatic coastlines, moorlands, gentle rolling pastures, incomparable theatre, cathedral cities, country lanes or in the quintessential English garden.    

 Bath  This UNESCO World Heritage Site is England's finest example of Georgian architecture and style.  Famous for its Roman Baths, Pulteney Bridge and Gt. Pulteney Street, assembly rooms and a vibrant arts cultural scene. Brighton and Hove  Brighton & Hove is an extremely photogenic city and is often featured as one of the UK's most popular tourist destinations on TV or in newspapers and magazines.   Bristol  Bristol's maritime heritage was created by merchant adventurers, explorers who sailed the high seas.  In 1497, John Cabot sailed to America from Bristol.  Today ancient inns, cobbled streets and grand buildings remain from this exciting past.   Cheltenham  Located where the western hills of the Cotswolds meet the Severn Valley, you'll find all of the elegance and style of the Regency period in Cheltenham, Britain's best preserved Regency town.  Chester  Chester's crowning glory is the 13th century Rows - two-tiers of shops running along the main streets. You'll find nothing like them anywhere else in the world.  The City Walls were built by Romans, extended by Anglo-Saxons, invaded by Vikings, strengthened by Norman battle-lords, blasted by Cromwell's cannons, restored by the Victorians and cherished by all today, they are simply the finest in Britain.  The Cotswolds  Dozens of picturesque historic towns and villages populate the beautiful Cotswold countryside, including: Bourton-on-the-Water - "Venice of the Cotswolds", Chipping Camden - historic and beautifully preserved, Moreton-in-Marsh - 13th century market town and Tetbury - a medieval market town dating to AD 681.  East of England  This link will take you to the official visitor site for the East of England - covering the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.  Gloucester  Cradled by the picturesque Cotswold Hills and ideally located in the heart of the country, the city of Gloucester has a vibrant, lively atmosphere that combines a rich historic past with all the excitement of a modern city.    London  One of the world's most popular and accessible cities with a varied and exciting cosmopolitan culture, rich in pageantry, pomp & circumstance.   London Theatre district is considered the world's  finest.  NorthumbriaShakespeare Country  Your links to information on Historic Warwick, Kenilworth, Stratford-upon-Avon, Royal Leamington Spa and South Warwickshire.   Somerset  A West Country mixture of heritage, coast and countryside including England's smallest city and its beautiful cathedral, quaint villages and stately homes clad in local honey colored stone.  South East England Take a city break to Brighton, Oxford, Canterbury, or Winchester. Discover the coast of the South East with The Isle of Wight, Portsmouth, Chichester, or Eastbourne. Escape into the countryside of Kent, Cotswolds, The River Thames, The New Forest or The South Downs. South West England  The South West of England stretches from Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds down to Dorset and westwards as far as Lands End in Cornwall. It includes the wide open spaces of Dartmoor and Exmoor, picturesque villages with thatched cottages nestling in amongst rolling hills, the Roman city of Bath, Stonehenge, and a magnificent and varied coastline dotted with fishing villages, seaside resorts, and 600 miles of coastal footpath.  Southport  Beautiful Beaches - The Southport & Sefton coastline is renowned for its beautiful beaches. Southport, Formby, and Ainsdale are regularly awarded the ENCAMS Seaside Award Flags. The beaches must pass rigorous tests including the provision of first aid facilities, good access for mobility impaired people and ensure the sands have a high standard of cleanliness.  Warwick  The medieval core of the town was prevented from expansion by the open spaces that surround it: the Common and Racecourse, the grounds of the Priory, St Nicholas Meadow, the River Avon, and later, Warwick Castle. Within a relatively small area there are many buildings of historic interest, of which the Castle is the most important.  This is one of the most dramatic and complete medieval castles in the country. It has been inhabited continuously since the Middle Ages, and was the home of the Earls of Warwick until recently.  York  England's most famous medieval city reflecting its Viking and Roman heritage.  Visit the stunning York Minster, enjoy Stonegate and Shambles shopping and live the York history at the JORVIK Viking Centre, National Railway Museum and York Castle Museum.  York is a compact walled riverside city and home to countless world-class attractions, museums and galleries. York is a year round destination offering a lively café bar and restaurant culture and vibrant entertainment and festivals.   Yorkshire  Yorkshire has a fascinating and intriguing history, with stories of romance, violence, heroism and adversity spanning over 2000 years. Monuments of centuries shaped by the hands of Roman and Viking invaders and medieval monks have been preserved to recount such tales. Yorkshire has been witness to a great deal of national history, including Roman invasions, Viking settlements, Saxon successes, Monarchy changing battles, the foundation of Methodism, great aristocracy and the industrial revolution.

Other relevant links

The British Monarchy

Historic Royal Palaces

Britain's Heritage Cities

SCOTLAND

Golf in Scotland

The Queen's Course at Gleneagles

Scotland: unspoiled, wild and dramatic scenery with castles, battlefields and ancient settlements combined with modern, cultured, vibrant cities.  

Aberdeen & Grampian  The capital of the Grampian Highlands is even more unique thanks to the treasures on its doorstep. Follow the Castle Trail taking in 13 of the finest gems the region has to offer. Or head to the coast where picturesque fishing villages and dramatic cliff top scenery are waiting to be explored. Play on championship golf courses or follow in Queen Victoria’s footsteps – the choice is yours.  Angus & Dundee  Uncover a different part of Scotland, where two thousand years of magic, mystery, and romance, are interwoven across a land as unspoiled as it is rich in history, tradition and culture. Whatever your reason for visiting Scotland, explore for yourself the legacy of ancient peoples, kings and queens, adventurers and inventors. Enjoy a contrasting landscape, where rugged coastlines, gentle lowlands and Highland Glens, merge easily and unexpectedly, and produce world-class golf locations set against dramatic and breath-taking scenery.  Edinburgh  Until the late 18th century, Edinburgh consisted, almost exclusively, of what is now known as the Old Town - where you’ll find the Castle, Royal Mile and Grassmarket).   The University was founded in 1583, setting in motion the city’s educational and professional development. The Bank of Scotland was founded in 1695, the first of many new ventures that would see Edinburgh established as a leading financial capital by the end of the 20th century.

A Day in Edinburgh With Scottish Arts & Literature 

Start the day with a visit to the Writers’ Museum located on Lady Stair’s Close just off the Royal Mile.  This treasure house of portraits, relics and manuscripts celebrates Scotland’s three great writers - Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.  Turning left down The Mound and further down the Playfair steps will take you to the National Gallery Of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy, which has recently been re-developed to include a subterranean link between the two galleries, and the introduction of the Galleries Restaurant, offering stunning views out across East Princes Street Gardens.

Skirting east along Princes Street past the 200 foot spire of the Scott Monument, built in tribute to the novelist Sir Walter Scott, turn left down Leith Street and marvel at the statue of Sherlock Holmes, whose creator, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, studied medicine at Edinburgh University. Turn left along York Place to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery where you can view portraits of famous Scots from the 16th century to the present day.   Not far from here on 17 Heriot Row is the birthplace of Robert Louis Stevenson identifiable by a commemorative plaque on the wall.

Fife  Fife is the perfect setting for a short break or a longer stay on Scotland's sunny east coast.  Whatever you want to explore - the country's best-kept beaches, the world home of golf in St Andrews, the delightful East Neuk fishing villages, the historic capital of Dunfermline, it's all in the Kingdom of Fife.  Glasgow & Clyde Valley  Greater Glasgow & Clyde Valley is one of Europe’s most exciting and beautiful destinations, which combines the energy and sophistication of a great international city with some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery.  Glasgow is an architectural dream: Victorian red & honey sandstone, Italianate steeples and medieval spires sit harmoniously with neo-gothic towers, the sensuous Art Nouveau of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the titanium, glass and steel of the contemporary city.  Glasgow has an amazing portfolio of more than twenty museums and galleries – many of them free – including the unique Burrell Collection, stunning Mackintosh House and cool and contemporary Gallery of Modern Art.  The Highlands of Scotland  The Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board has put together a list of fifty favorite things to do in the Highlands that cost little or nothing  follow this link  for more information.   Orkney  Orkney is an archipelago of 70 or so islands and skerries, of which 17 are currently inhabited. Orkney can be found off the northern tip of Scotland, lying on latitude 59° North, where the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet. The Islands cover an area of 974 square kilometres, of which more than half is taken up by the Mainland, which is the group’s largest island.  The islands are about 85 km from north to south and 37 km from east to west. Approximately 20,000 people live in Orkney, the majority of which live in the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness.

WALES  

Wales is a land of legend, song, fire-breathing dragons, powerful wizards, sheep, more sheep, and undisputed natural beauty. You'll find standing stones, Celtic crosses, castles, dramatic cliffs and mountains, wide sandy bays and lush green valleys in the Welsh countryside.      

Brecon Beacons