Ryker BeckIf you are a bit of a culture vulture, Europe is a great place for you. This part of the world offers something for everyone. Here are just a few of the cultural experiences that you can enjoy if you travel in Europe.
Classy Paris
If you like beautiful buildings, Paris is a wonderful city. The Louvre is the place to visit if you love art. It is home to some of the most iconic paintings and sculptures in the world, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the sublime Winged Goddess of Nike and Michelangelo’s Dying Slave.
A night at the opera
If you enjoy opera, Vienna is definitely the place to head for. This city is home to seven opera companies, so there is plenty of choice. It is easy to buy tickets in advance. Vienna is one of the cheapest places to enjoy opera, so if you stay for a few nights you can take in more than one.
Venice
Venice is famous for its canals, and a boat ride is a great way to see this city’s fantastic architecture. If you can, visit during the Carnival season. That is when the city bursts into life as the Venetians dress up to attend the many, world-renowned, masquerade balls. If you are organised you can hire a costume and attend one yourself.
Vatican City
The Vatican is a World Heritage site, which really is worth a visit. It is home to many iconic buildings including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
You will also be able to enjoy many wonderful works of art here. There are pieces by Bernini, Botticelli, Michelangelo and many others. If you want to visit the museum, be prepared to go early or queue. It gets very busy.
Stratford-upon-Avon
The birthplace of Shakespeare is one of the best places to visit if you are a theatre fan. There really is nothing like seeing one of his plays performed by The Royal Shakespeare Company.
Mind you, if you are in London, visiting Shakespeare’s Globe should really be on your itinerary. It offers a chance for you to experience a theatre performance Jacobean style, a truly unique experience.
London
Many people dismiss London as a cultural destination, but you really shouldn’t. It may not have the beautiful centre of Paris, but it has some wonderful cultural and historic sites that are worth a visit. Buckingham Palace is one of them.
The performing arts are also strongly represented in this city. You can take in performances of all kinds at the Barbican Centre, The Royal Opera House, London Coliseum, and The Royal Albert Hall.
For art lovers there are The National Gallery, Tate Modern, Tate Britain and the Wallace Collection, to enjoy. You can also see wonderful sculptures and learn about ancient cultures at The British Museum.
Plan ahead
If you are planning to visit the cultural hotspots of Europe, spend a while doing a bit of research, and buy entrance tickets before you go when you can. Doing so will save you time and allow you to enjoy what you are there to see more.