Angers is a city in western France, situated along the Maine River in the Loire Valley and surrounded by the vineyards and countryside of Anjou. Its historic centre combines medieval streets, elegant townhouses, and gardens with a lively university and cultural scene. The Château d'Angers is the city's defining landmark, with massive slate-coloured defensive walls overlooking the river and historic districts.
Budva is a coastal town in southwestern Montenegro, set beside the Adriatic Sea and surrounded by limestone hills. Its Old Town occupies a small fortified peninsula, with narrow stone streets, historic buildings, churches, and squares enclosed by defensive walls. Outside the walls, Budva extends along a busy waterfront with beaches, hotels, restaurants, and a marina.
Hiva Oa, one of the most enchanting islands in the Marquesas archipelago, is a destination where natural beauty and cultural richness converge. Known as the “Garden of the Marquesas,” Hiva Oa is a lush, verdant paradise, dotted with towering cliffs, deep valleys, and an endless array of tropical flora
Salamanca, often called the “Golden City” for the warm glow of its sandstone buildings, is a place where centuries of stories are etched into every wall. Visit its historic center to wander through cobbled streets lined with architectural marvels. The University of Salamanca, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in Europe and still buzzes with student life.
Nordfjordeid is a town in Vestland county, western Norway, situated at the end of the Eidsfjorden branch of the larger Nordfjord. Surrounded by steep mountains, fertile valleys, and deep fjord waters, it serves as the administrative center of Stad Municipality.
Photo Credit: Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Thomas Somme on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Alessandro Santoro on Unsplash
If it wasn't for Paris, Ghent would be medieval Europe's largest city. Steeped in history both rebellious and industrious, it sits at the junction of the Leie and Scheldt rivers and was once the site of armed battles by its townsfolk, who raged against heavy taxes and restricted civil liberties. Ghent is grey and somewhat begrimed — not picturesque like Bruges, but ultimately more realistic. Like Bruges, the town has a belfort well worth climbing and, at the Sint-Baafskathedral, a must-see masterpiece by Jan van Eyck - Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.
Other Popular Destinations in Belgium
Antwerp
A major port city on the River Scheldt, Antwerp, Belgium, is a cultural, historical, and commercial hub and the country's most populous city. Known as the "diamond capital of the world," Antwerp is renowned for its cut diamonds.
Bruges
Bruges, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a city where medieval charm meets modern allure. Nestled in the heart of Belgium's Flanders region, Bruges is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, winding canals, and cobblestone streets that invite visitors to step back in time.