26 Apr 5 European Countries You Need to Visit | Insight Vacations
Add These European Countries to Your Bucket List
Experience some of Europe’s most desirable destinations on an unforgettable trip with Insight Vacations. Marvel at must-see sights in culture capitals, be enchanted by imperial cities and roam in trendy locales.
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Situated in the heart of the Balkans, Bosnia, and Herzegovina remains one of the last great undiscovered regions of the Southern Alps. Its rugged beauty is mostly mountainous, embellished by the lush forests that make up 50 percent of the country. Still peppered with battle scars from the Bosnian war, its heartbreaking history can be found on the wounded Soviet-style apartment blocks in its suburbs.
Explore the cobbled old town market of its capital, Sarajevo, known as Baščaršija. See the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and the Latin Bridge where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. In Mostar learn the history and symbolic significance of Stari Most and explore its pretty old town with your Local Expert.
With Insight Vacations gain access to exclusive experiences: Visit the Tunnel of Hope in Sarajevo and hear a firsthand account of when the city was under siege and the impact of the city’s secret lifeline.
Insider tip: Head to Bosnia and Herzegovina between May and September for the warmest climates and brighter mountain views.
Estonia
Nestled in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, Estonia is a pretty, low-lying country. It boasts 1500 lakes, copious forests and plenty of water activities in the summer months. Its capital Tallinn is a nod to the country’s history with its medieval architecture and UNESCO protected Old Town.
Explore this fairytale part of town with your Local Expert. Visit the market square and see the old German weighing house, pharmacy and Town Hall. Perhaps walk up Toompea Hill to see the castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Insider tip: Estonia stays true to its seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Head there between June and August for longer days and brighter weather.
Iceland
Iceland is a country for the adventurous. Known for its mind-bending landscapes and awe-inspiring natural phenomena, this rugged land, with all its raw, dramatic landscapes should be on your bucket list. Prepare to experience a world of gushing waterfalls, volcanoes and hot springs.
Visit the famous spouting Geysir and the spectacular two-tiered Gullfoss falls, the Icelandic equivalent of the Niagara Falls. Join your Travel Director for a pretty orientation of seaside village Höfn, and see the striking setting for the James Bond film ‘Die Another Day’ at Lake Jökulsárlón.
With Insight Vacations gain access to exclusive experiences: Learn about Iceland’s history with a visit to the fascinating Icelandic Settlement Centre in Borganes • In Friðheimar explore a family-run farm and sample their sweet-tasting, homegrown tomatoes.
Insider tip: For maximum impact head to Iceland in winter, its prime, for snowy backdrops and outstanding views. In the summer months the weather is mild but not hot, perfect for those wanting to explore its outdoors with more ease.
Macedonia
Welcome to the Balkan nation of Macedonia, a landlocked country decorated by a rugged terrain, mountains, walking trails, sparkling lakes and historic architecture. Delve into its fascinating Greek, Roman and Ottoman history, or perhaps explore some of its breathtaking National Parks, home to over 3,700 plant species.
Visit the quirky city of Skopje, with its Ottoman and Byzantine sights, 15th-century Stone Bridge and Tvrdina Kale Fortress. At dusk, head to Plostad Makedonija Central Square at the heart of the city and enjoy the atmosphere from one of its countless bars and restaurants.
Insider tip: Located in the south of Europe, Macedonia is a great place to visit most of the year. Head there in spring and autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Montenegro
An agreeable mix of rugged mountains, primeval forests, and sweeping beaches, Montenegro is a worthy destination for the outdoorsy traveler. Though perhaps a less obvious choice than its popular neighbor Croatia, Montenegro is no less alluring. Its attraction lies in its natural beauty, with eagles, brown bears, lynx and wild boar roaming its wild land.
Visit Kotor’s Stari Grad, or Old Town. Perfectly positioned on a beautiful bay, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is decorated by the terracotta rooftops that brighten its historic buildings. The town’s winding streets and squares will introduce you to several Romanesque churches, all ornately designed.
Insider tip: The southern coastal zone has long, hot dry summers and short mild winters. For warm weather but fewer crowds head there in June or September.