Have Love & Travel

Credits

The photographers behind the guides.

Guide slides are built from licensed stock photography (Pixabay, Unsplash, Wikimedia Commons and Creative Commons contributors) and, where labelled, AI-generated scenes. Thank you to every photographer below.

Oslo to Bergen by train, with the Flåm detour

  • Flam, looking down the Aurlandsfjord from the village between steep green mountainsides, a cruise ship at the quay: Фалкон on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Flam, the Aurlandsfjord stretching out from the village between steep mountains: Pauline_17 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Oslo, the white sloping Opera House on the harbour under big clouds: office8 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Finse, the lake Finsevatnet with snow patches on the bare high plateau: Oyz on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Myrdal, a Vy train at the platform beside the red station building under bare mountains: Фалкон on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Flam Railway, two green Flamsbana trains passing in the steep valley near Brekkefossen: Stch2022 on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Flam, the village at the fjord head under snow-streaked mountains, reflected in the water: parwal on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Bergen, the Bryggen wharf houses along the harbour with boats, mist on the hills: nextvoyage on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

7 spring windows in Britain and Ireland you book in winter

  • Skomer, pink wildflowers (red campion) over the island's coves and cliffs, blue sky: Terry Montague on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bluebell Woods, a carpet of bluebells under old oaks in spring: 15427268 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Skomer, an Atlantic puffin on the clifftop with a beak full of sand eels: Doncoombez on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Skomer, an Atlantic puffin standing on a rock against blue sea: Nicolas DC on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bluebell Woods, sunlight and shadows across a beech wood carpeted in bluebells: Timbigger on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Trebah Garden, the valley filled with flowering rhododendrons and azaleas: Daderot on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • The Burren, Poulnabrone dolmen on the limestone plateau under a big blue sky: carina_chen on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Snowdon Mountain Railway, a railcar climbing the rack line along the ridge near the summit in mist: Whitechappel79 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Inverness: the Ness Bridge over the River Ness with the town's stone buildings behind: kolibri5 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Cyprus in January

  • Troodos, a sunny snowfield among black pines with snow-streaked ridges and a wide blue sky above: Secret Travel Guide secret-travel.guide on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Limassol, the city's seafront and tower blocks curving along the bay, seen from the hillside at Amathus: dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Larnaca, the Finikoudes palm promenade and seafront hotels above the town beach: dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Limassol, the marina's arched footbridge and colourful waterfront houses on turquoise water: LaraKoptseva on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Kourion, the clifftop ruins of the ancient city with stone walls, a lone column and arches against the sea: dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Petra tou Romiou, close view of Aphrodite's Rock and the smaller stacks beside the pebble shore: dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Paphos, the Ganymede and the eagle floor mosaic in the House of Dionysus, Kato Paphos archaeological park: Institute for the Study of the Ancient World from New York, United States of Ame on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Troodos, snow on Mount Olympus with its summit radar domes, people sledging among black pines below: dimitrisvetsikas1969 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Saxony at Christmas

  • Dresden, the Striezelmarkt filling the Altmarkt at dusk with red-roofed stalls, Ferris wheel and tree, Kreuzkirche tower under a pale sky: sontung57 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Dresden, aerial view over the Frauenkirche, the Neumarkt and the Elbe with its bridges: Toni2001 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Dresden, the Striezelmarkt on the Altmarkt at night from above: lit stalls, Ferris wheel, Christmas tree and the Kreuzkirche tower: sontung57 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Dresden, the giant wooden Christmas pyramid at the Striezelmarkt with the Frauenkirche dome behind: andreasmetallerreni on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Leipzig, Christmas market stalls and a lit pyramid in front of the snowy Old Town Hall at night, crowds in silhouette: Anna Blake on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Leipzig, the Christmas Ferris wheel lit gold on Augustusplatz with the Paulinum behind, winter night: Nico Knaack on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Seiffen, the octagonal Bergkirche (mountain church) with its green lantern tower under a blue sky, rhododendrons in bloom, portrait: Andreas Haubold on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Seiffen, the open-air toy-makers' museum: half-timbered Ore Mountains houses on a hillside dusted with snow: geoworld on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

England's most beautiful railway is just an ordinary train

  • Ribblehead Viaduct low on the horizon at the end of the gravel track, wide pale sky above: Samuel Girven on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Ribblehead Viaduct, the full row of arches across the moor with limestone rocks in the foreground: ebor on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Yorkshire Dales, a green valley with a dry-stone wall and scattered barns: MacDex on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Ribblehead Viaduct from below, the track running under the tall stone arches: Samuel Girven on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Ribblehead Viaduct, the arches across the moor from the footpath, big blue sky with clouds: Michael D Beckwith on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Dent Station, the platform and stone station house high on the fellside: SISSEng on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Appleby, the railway station platforms with the red footbridge and a train arriving: Rosser1954 on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Carlisle, the red sandstone gatehouse of Carlisle Castle with the cobbled approach: randomwinner on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Montreux Noël

  • Montreux, the lakefront at night during the Christmas market: lit Ferris wheel, Christmas tree and quays reflected in Lake Geneva: Laura Nardi on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Montreux, the town's rooftops and tower block above Lake Geneva with snowy Alps across the water, blue sky: Natasha on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Montreux, the lakeside town and its Ferris wheel across Lake Geneva with the Dents du Midi behind, autumn flower beds on the quay: ChiemSeherin on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Montreux, the town on the lakeshore below snowy peaks with a band of cloud over Lake Geneva: Xavier von Erlach on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Chillon Castle, seen from high above on its islet in turquoise Lake Geneva with Villeneuve and the Rhone valley behind: raiKom on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Rochers-de-Naye, the Montreux-Glion-Rochers-de-Naye cogwheel train at the snowy summit station with the Alps behind: adege on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Montreux, glass Christmas ornaments glowing gold at a chalet of the Montreux Christmas market: Eleonora Albasi on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Montreux, the lakeside at Lake Geneva with moored boats and the snowy Dents du Midi at the end of the lake: padoriot on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Czechia beyond Prague

  • Cesky Krumlov, the Vltava bend wrapping the lit old town at blue hour, deep blue sky: Vined on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Olomouc, aerial view over the Upper Square and Town Hall tower to the rooftops: Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Kutna Hora, the old town skyline with St James's Church tower, St Barbara's spires on the horizon: Makalu on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Kutna Hora, rows of skulls stacked inside the Sedlec Ossuary: Gerd Eichmann on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Brno, Petrov cathedral above red roofs in warm evening light: romavor on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Villa Tugendhat, the white Mies van der Rohe villa's glass garden front above the sloping lawn, Brno: Thomas Ledl on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Olomouc, the Holy Trinity Column on the Upper Square among pastel townhouses, blue sky: Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Cesky Krumlov, the castle tower and St Jost's green spire above the rooftops at sunset: Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

New Year's Eve in 6 European cities

  • London, the London Eye glowing pink and reflected in the dark Thames, portrait frame: alanimren on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Funchal, Madeira: the city on its bay below green hills under a big pale sky: Rumman Amin on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • London, the London Eye lit purple across the Thames at night with Big Ben and Westminster lit beyond: Pexels on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Fireworks over Edinburgh Castle at night, used for the Edinburgh Hogmanay slide; which night is not known: Chris Flexen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Stephansplatz, Vienna: St Stephen's Cathedral lit red at night above Christmas market stalls: Kate K on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Kapitelplatz, Salzburg: the Sphaera golden ball below Salzburg Cathedral's green dome, portrait frame: Hans on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja floodlit gold against a dark night sky above the rooftops: hjorleifur on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Funchal, Madeira: red roofs down to the harbour and a cruise ship, the Atlantic beyond: Kirill Khripunov on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

How to actually get Alhambra tickets

  • Alhambra, the whole fortress along its ridge under a wide cloudy sky, seen from across the valley: Peppersquirrel on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Granada, the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada: christophermw71 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Nasrid Palaces, the Fountain of Lions in the Court of the Lions with the arcade behind: wsanter on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Generalife, the Patio de la Acequia with its long pool, arching fountain jets and the palace pavilion: Braunecker on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Alhambra, the Comares Tower rising above the wooded hillside under a dramatic sunset sky: ELG21 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Alhambra, the palace complex framed by a carved Nasrid arch, seen from the Generalife side: jesusmota on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Alhambra, Granada, in late light with the Sierra Nevada behind: janmichael on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Albaicin, rooftops of the quarter in the foreground with the Alhambra across the valley, as seen from the Mirador de San Nicolas: Esteban Palacios Blanco on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Albaicin, the hillside of white houses seen over the red ramparts of the Alhambra's Alcazaba: JerzyGórecki on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Bergen's gingerbread city

  • Bergen, the Bryggen wharf houses in snow along the still harbour, snowy hillside and a pale white sky: Ben Wicks on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bergen, the city and Store Lungegårdsvann from above in low winter sun, snow-dusted Ulriken behind: MAO YUQING on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Pepperkakebyen, Bergen's gingerbread city: lit gingerbread houses, a gingerbread leaning tower and snowy model hills under a painted moon: Bea on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Pepperkakebyen, Bergen's gingerbread city: a blue gingerbread house, model trees and a miniature street in fake snow with lights: Bea on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bergen, Bryggen's gables outlined in festive string lights at dusk, mirrored in a puddle on the quay: Lachlan Gowen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bergen, Bryggen's ochre and red wooden fronts reflected in the harbour with snow on the roofs and hillside, portrait: Patrik Kovar on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bergen, the Byparken music pavilion wrapped in Christmas lights at night, light snow on the lawn and lit trees: Dana Andreea Gheorghe on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bergen, the city lights at blue hour seen from Mount Floyen, snow on the mountains and Ulriken behind: syntax error on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Amsterdam in December

  • Amsterdam, a frozen canal at dusk lined with houseboats, bare trees and gabled houses under a calm lilac sky: Berend Leupen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Amsterdam, canal bridges lit at blue hour with boat light trails under the arches and gabled canal houses behind: Michael_Luenen on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Amsterdam, a canal at blue hour with street lamps, bare winter trees and moored boats, the Rijksmuseum towers lit at the end: 1919021 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Amsterdam, bikes against a canal railing in snow, bare trees and canal houses along the water: Lisa van Vliet on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Amsterdam, looking under a brick canal-bridge arch to a row of bridges beyond, bare trees, winter afternoon: RonPorter on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Amsterdam, the Westerkerk tower over the Prinsengracht canal with houseboats and bare winter trees: jcbeni on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Amsterdam, snow-covered bikes on a canal bridge with crooked gabled houses behind, portrait: Jeison Higuita on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Amsterdam, the Damrak's gabled houses lit at blue hour and mirrored in the water with a canal boat, portrait: lubovlisitsa on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Sarajevo to Mostar

  • Mostar, Stari Most's high stone arch over the green Neretva with the old town and hills: Sharon Hahn Darlin on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Sarajevo, the green lead domes of the Brusa Bezistan market hall in Bascarsija: Aktron on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0
  • Sarajevo, the Sebilj fountain on Bascarsija square lit at night over wet cobbles: Aktron on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0
  • Konjic, the Old Stone Bridge's six arches over the clear Neretva with mountains behind: Bdx on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Jablanica, the collapsed WWII railway bridge hanging into the green Neretva: Milo van Kovacevic on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Mostar, the Koski Mehmed Pasha mosque and minaret above the Neretva: RGY23 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Ploce, the Croatian port town and its cranes on the Adriatic below the hills: Ma▀▄Ga on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0

Lofoten by car

  • Sakrisoy, Lofoten in winter: the yellow fishermen's cabins below snowy Olstind peak, reflected in calm water: Luke Stackpoole on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Lofoten in winter: aerial of the road causeway threading between islets below the snowy pyramid of Olstind: Munir Rani on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Svolvaer, Lofoten: the harbour front at Torget with boats, the round rust-red hotel and the Kongstindan peaks behind: Patrice78500 on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Henningsvaer, Lofoten in winter: the island football pitch ringed by snow, the village and peaks behind: Daniel Diemer on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Hamnoy, Lofoten in winter: snow-covered red rorbuer on the rocks under snowy Festhaeltinden: Bingqi Huang on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Reine, Lofoten: drone view from Reinebringen over Reine village, the fjord and the peaks beyond: Joshua Kettle on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • A i Lofoten: the red rorbuer and harbour of the village at the end of the E10, islets and mountains under a blue sky: Robert Anders from Hamburg, Germany on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Lofoten: aurora over sea and mountain peaks: Sami Matias Breilin on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Milan, Venice, Rome

  • Venice: the Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal with a gondola in front, big blue sky: fahadhussen77 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Milan: a vintage yellow Peter Witt tram on a cobbled street of old palazzi: Superanik on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Milan: the Duomo's white Gothic facade across the empty piazza under a soft pink sky: Ouael Ben Salah on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Milan: the glass dome and iron-and-glass vault of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Hanne73 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Venice: the domes of Santa Maria della Salute above the Grand Canal under a pale sky: Henrique Ferreira on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Venice: colourful palazzi along a canal with boats: Kit Suman on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Venice: the Bridge of Sighs over Rio di Palazzo with a gondola below: Michelle-Maria on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Rome: the Colosseum's outer wall rising into a pale grey sky: Jorgen Hendriksen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Rome: the Colosseum facade under a blue sky with visitors on the lawn: Florian Klassen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Florence: skyline over the Arno with Brunelleschi's Duomo dome and Giotto's campanile, clear blue sky: CRLSVAZQUEZ on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

The West Highland Line in winter

  • Glenfinnan Viaduct: the curved viaduct and empty track with Loch Shiel and autumn hills beyond: clement proust on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Ben Nevis: the cloud-wrapped North Face cliffs above a green ridge path, a small hiker for scale: Ricky Motton on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Glasgow: the University of Glasgow's Gothic tower rising above the trees of Kelvingrove and the River Kelvin: mehranhaddadi on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Loch Lomond: the loch, its wooded islands and the hills of the east shore from Duncryne Hill, soft autumn light: Alan Findlay on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Rannoch Moor in winter: open snow-flecked moorland running to white hills under a low sun and grey sky: Colin Wells on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Fort William: the beached wreck of the Old Boat of Caol at Corpach, with Ben Nevis under dramatic cloud behind: John Young on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Glenfinnan Viaduct: the empty curved viaduct below a mountain, autumn birch and bracken in front: Connor Mollison on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Glenfinnan Viaduct: the Jacobite steam train crossing the curved arches, green hills and open sky above: Tim Woolliscroft on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Glenfinnan: the Glenfinnan Monument tower with its Highlander statue at the head of Loch Shiel, a walker on the path in front: MemoryCatcher on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

€63 and three borders

  • Middle Rhine, Oberwesel: the red Liebfrauenkirche and the town below Schonburg castle on the wooded slope: falco on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Schaffhausen: the old town roofs from above with the St Johann church clock tower: asusnotebook on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Salzburg: the old town across the Salzach river with church domes and Hohensalzburg Fortress on the hill: GWANGJIN GO on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Kufstein: the round white Kaiserturm of Kufstein Fortress above its stone ramparts, deep blue sky: bogitw on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Schaffhausen: the round Munot fortress tower at the top of its vineyard stairway, blue sky: asusnotebook on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Middle Rhine, Oberwesel: the round medieval Ochsenturm tower between the Rhine and the railway with a freight train passing: falco on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Cologne: the twin spires of Cologne Cathedral above the Rhine with the Hohenzollern Bridge and a river boat: wobogre on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

The Basque coast in winter

  • San Sebastian: La Concha Bay from above under towering clouds, the city curving round the beach: Ion Flecha on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Getaria at dusk: the harbour and fishing boats in front of the old town and San Salvador church tower: Euskalduna on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0
  • Bilbao: the titanium Guggenheim Museum on the Nervion riverbank, Iberdrola tower behind, blue sky: davidvives90 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Gaztelugatxe: aerial of the zigzag stone stairway and causeway climbing to the hermitage over a rough sea: Nuri Lopez bartalamus on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Getaria from the air: the port, the town and the mouse-shaped San Anton island (El Raton) on the Basque coast: Mikel Arrazola on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0 es
  • San Sebastian: the old harbour full of boats with La Concha beach and the promenade behind: Andrea Huls Pareja on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Biarritz: surf-washed rocks and the iron footbridge by the Rocher de la Vierge, lighthouse on the far headland: Artistosteles on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0

Prague, Vienna, Budapest

  • Prague Castle, St Vitus Cathedral and the castle above Malá Strana's red roofs across the Vltava, blue sky: ArminEP on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Prague, Charles Bridge from above at sunset with crowds and the Vltava: annietyli on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Prague Castle, St Vitus Cathedral floodlit gold at blue hour above the lit roofs: vaclavikm on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Old Town Square, Prague: the twin spires of the Týn Church above the square's pastel facades in warm light, seen from above: Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Prague, Charles Bridge at dawn toward the Old Town Bridge Tower: rlahuddin on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Vienna State Opera by day, seen from the Albertina terrace balustrade, blue sky: Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Hofburg, Vienna: a fiaker horse carriage crossing the In der Burg courtyard of the imperial palace: domeckopol on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Bratislava Main Square: the empty square with Roland Fountain and the Old Town Hall tower behind, soft sky: Jorge Láscar from Australia on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Budapest Parliament and Chain Bridge rising out of fog: Gallila-Photo on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Chain Bridge, Budapest, at dusk: the lit bridge with Gresham Palace and St Stephen's Basilica on the Pest bank: Giraffew on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Malta in winter

  • Valletta, the skyline across Marsamxett Harbour with the Carmelite church dome and St Paul's spire, big clouds: Hobbyfotography on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Valletta, the bronze Triton Fountain at the City Gate square under a grey sky: chrisjzammit on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Hypogeum, the plain stone entrance wall of the Hal Saflieni Prehistoric Hypogeum with its name and UNESCO emblem, cars parked below: Andrey BG on Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
  • Valletta, a steep straight street of limestone houses and wooden balconies running down to the harbour, footbridge over it: chrisjzammit on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Mdina, a horse-drawn karrozzin seen through a carved stone gateway into the walled city: Efraimstochter on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Gozo Ferry, a white Gozo Channel Line ferry crossing past Comino's cliffs and St Mary's Tower: Efraimstochter on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Gozo, Mġarr ferry harbour with fishing boats below the hilltop Lourdes chapel and Għajnsielem church spire, dramatic sun rays: TheDigitalArtist on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Blue Grotto Malta, the great limestone sea arch seen from the clifftop viewpoint, deep blue sea and Filfla on the horizon: ReneGossner on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Alsace at Christmas in 4 days

  • Strasbourg, the cathedral's single spire glowing orange at sunset against blue sky: 19306 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Petite France, Strasbourg, half-timbered houses reflected in the canal under a cloudy sky: monikawl999 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Strasbourg, Rue Mercière's half-timbered houses leading to the red sandstone cathedral facade and spire: Architects on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Strasbourg Christmas market crowd beside the Maison Kammerzell: Jorge Franganillo on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Petite France, Strasbourg, tall half-timbered tanners' houses on the Ill canal: USA-Reiseblogger on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Colmar, Petite Venise: the colourful half-timbered houses of the Quai de la Poissonnerie along the Lauch canal: Pat_Photographies on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Colmar, Petite Venise at night, lit half-timbered houses reflected in the canal: 19306 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Eguisheim, the Saint-Léon fountain with the pope's statue on Place du Château, flower boxes and half-timbered houses: Pug Girl on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Riquewihr, a cobbled lane of colourful half-timbered houses curving past the blue timbered house, wrought-iron signs: Olga_Fil on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Kaysersberg from the castle hill: red roofs, the Sainte-Croix church tower and vineyards running out to the Rhine plain, wide blue sky: Ben_Kerckx on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Tenerife in January

  • Teide, Tenerife: the snow-capped summit above the Roques de García rock formations in Las Cañadas: vanvloten on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Calatrava's white Auditorio beside the port and seawater pools, Anaga mountains behind: Cardonal on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Playa de Las Teresitas, the golden beach and breakwater at San Andrés: Hans on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Teide, Tenerife: the volcano's symmetrical cone above pine forest and lava slopes, clear blue sky: corpol_8 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Teide, Tenerife: the Roque Cinchado rock pillar in front of the volcano under a contrail sky: Bernhard_Schuermann on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Masca, Tenerife: white village houses and palms on a ridge below a sheer rock pinnacle: analogicus on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Los Gigantes, Tenerife: the sheer sea cliffs dropping into the Atlantic, blue sky with cloud: stux on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Anaga, Tenerife: a misty laurel-forest trail under ferns and twisted trees: OliverMbrax on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Salzburg in Advent, with Hallstatt as the day trip

  • Salzburg: Hohensalzburg Fortress above the autumn-coloured old town at sunset, Alps behind: Free Walking Tour Salzburg on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Salzburg: the old town across the Salzach river with church domes and Hohensalzburg Fortress on the hill: GWANGJIN GO on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Residenzplatz Salzburg, the baroque Residence Fountain with horses below the cathedral's bell towers: werdepate on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Salzburg Domplatz, the Marian Column in front of Salzburg Cathedral's white facade and green-capped towers: Hans on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Hellbrunn, the yellow Hellbrunn Palace reflected in the garden pond under blue sky: Jakub Hałun on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Hohensalzburg, the fortress above Salzburg old town seen across the Salzach, wide blue sky: Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Hallstatt in winter at dusk, the Protestant church spire and lakefront houses reflected in Hallstättersee under snow-dusted peaks, calm pale sky: 12019 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Hallstatt in winter, the church spire and lakeside houses below snowy mountains, a boat at the pier: YakupIpek on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Lyon's Fête des Lumières

  • Fete des Lumieres, Lyon: light projection on the Hotel de Ville facade, Place des Terreaux, at night: smadore on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Lyon from above: red footbridge over the Saone and the Presqu'ile rooftops: Dmitrii E. on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Fourviere, Lyon: the basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere on its hill: Bastien Nvs on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Lyon, Place des Terreaux: Bartholdi fountain horses in front of the Hotel de Ville: Jonne Mäkikyrö on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Lyon, Vieux Lyon: Saint-Georges church and red footbridge on the Saone with Fourviere basilica above: Andréa Villiers on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Lyon: colourful facades along the Saone quays: Madalina Zamfira on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Lyon at night seen from Fourviere hill, the city lit up below: Mike Benna on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Christmas markets by rail

  • Marienplatz, Munich: Christkindlmarkt from above at dusk, Neues Rathaus tower and the twin domes of the Frauenkirche behind: Ashwin Chandrasekaran on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Marienplatz, Munich: the Neues Rathaus clock tower with the Glockenspiel under a blue sky with clouds: abuccellato on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Marienplatz, Munich: the Christkindlmarkt at night, lit Christmas tree and stalls in front of the Neues Rathaus, Marian Column at left: Ramessos on Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
  • Vienna, Rathausplatz: the Wiener Christkindlmarkt arch lit in front of the City Hall at night: Nenad Kaevik on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bratislava Main Square: Hlavne namestie with the Old Town Hall clock tower, market stalls and walkers, blue sky: Jorge Franganillo on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Bratislava Castle above the Danube: Ajale on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Dublin, Belfast and the Causeway Coast in 5 days

  • Giants Causeway: basalt column causeway running toward the green headland: Patrick Metzdorf on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dublin docklands at night: the Convention Centre and Samuel Beckett Bridge reflected in the Liffey: Andrei Carina on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dublin, Temple Bar: the red Temple Bar pub with hanging flowers: Matheus Câmara da Silva on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dublin Castle above the Dubh Linn Garden lawn: Lisa Fecker on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Belfast City Hall with the Queen Victoria statue and a Belfast flower bed in front: Humphrey M on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Belfast City Hall, green domes and stone front, people on the lawn in front: K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Giants Causeway: stepped hexagonal basalt columns by the sea: Veronica Reverse on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Carrick-a-Rede: the rope bridge strung between the cliff and the island: Amit Jagnade on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dark Hedges, Bregagh Road: the beech tunnel over the empty road: K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Vienna has 15 Christmas markets.

  • Karlsplatz, Vienna: Karlskirche in snow with Christmas market stalls in front: Scorn Pion on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Stephansplatz, Vienna: St Stephen's Cathedral spire rising over Vienna's rooftops: Christian Lendl on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Karlsplatz, Vienna: Karlskirche dome and columns at dusk with Christmas market lights in front: Aneta Pawlik on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Schonbrunn Palace yellow facade behind the flower parterre: E. Diop on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vienna, Rathausplatz: the Wiener Christkindlmarkt arch lit in front of the City Hall at night: Nenad Kaevik on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Stephansplatz, Vienna: St Stephen's Cathedral lit red at night above Christmas market stalls: Kate K on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vienna, museum dome on Maria-Theresien-Platz: Sekau67 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Franconia by regional train

  • Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt on the Hauptmarkt by day: garten-gg on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Nuremberg: a half-timbered tower gate in the old town at dusk: garten-gg on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Nuremberg Christmas market: a stall hung with red glass ornaments: garten-gg on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Bamberg: the old town hall built on the river Regnitz: 12019 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: the Ploenlein corner with its half-timbered house and towers: maxmann on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Wurzburg: the Residence palace behind its gardens: Katerwursty on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber: a gate tower and half-timbered houses: fbhk on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Rovaniemi in winter

  • Rovaniemi: the Lumberjack's Candle Bridge lit at dusk over the river: Tarja Mitrovic on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Rovaniemi, Finland: snowy winter scene in the town: Vincent Guth vingtcent on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Rovaniemi: the Arctic Circle (polar circle) monument: jackmac34 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Rovaniemi: green aurora borealis over the snowy forest: Tarja Mitrovic on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Rovaniemi area, Lapland: reindeer pulling sleighs in the snow: pasja1000 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Rovaniemi area: a wooden cabin in deep snow among pines: Rucksack Magazine rucksackmag on Wikimedia Commons · CC0

The NC500 in winter

  • Applecross: tidal sands and hills under big clouds on the west coast of Scotland: Chilli Charlie on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Inverness: a row of houses along the River Ness: WolfBlur on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Inverness: the Ness Bridge over the River Ness with the town's stone buildings behind: kolibri5 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Bealach na Ba: the summit cairn at the top of the pass above the moorland: JarroNevsbaru on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Ullapool: fishing boats in the harbour below the hills: MemoryCatcher on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • John o Groats: the row of brightly painted houses: GrantBarclay on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Copenhagen at Christmas

  • Copenhagen: Nyhavn's coloured houses and boats along the canal: Evan Lee on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen: the lit buildings reflected in the lake at night: Ava Playle on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Copenhagen: cyclists at Nyhavn in front of the coloured houses: Febiyan on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tivoli, Copenhagen: the Tivoli building illuminated with lights at dusk: flickch on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Oresund Bridge from Sweden, long exposure: Ben Wicks on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Malmo: buildings along a canal: John Flygare on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Interrail in 2026

  • Interrail-style rail travel: a blue and yellow train waiting at a mountain station: William Dmytrow on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Interrail-style rail travel: two trains at a station platform: Thomas Choi on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Interrail: an 'I train Europe' sticker on a German ICE window: Christian Lue on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Glacier Express: red panoramic coaches with the Glacier Express logo crossing a snowy field: Karin Hugentobler on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Interrail-style rail travel: a German ICE 4 high-speed train arriving at Karlsruhe station: Christian Lue on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Nightjet: an OBB Nightjet sleeper carriage (Schlafwagen) at a station platform: Simon Tartarotti on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Bolzano at Christmas

  • Bolzano, Piazza Walther: the Walther von der Vogelweide statue and the square's buildings: User:Mattes on Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
  • Christmas market carousel against a purple dusk sky: Mario Tuzon on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Christmas market stall of gingerbread hearts and sweets, lit at night: Jens Riesenberg on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Christmas market at dusk, blurred figures walking past bokeh stall lights: Inga Gaile on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Christmas market wooden stalls and crowd under string lights at dusk: Ross Sneddon on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Budapest's baths in winter

  • Szechenyi Baths, Budapest: the outdoor pool in front of the yellow neo-baroque building: Linda Gerbec on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Gellert Baths main indoor pool, colonnades under a glass roof: Linoleum Creative Collective on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Szechenyi Baths: the outdoor pool and yellow domed building behind red flowers: Victor Malyushev on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Szechenyi Baths outdoor pool in front of the yellow neo-baroque wings, Budapest: Linda Gerbec on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Budapest Chain Bridge at night with the lit Parliament: blizniak on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Budapest Parliament and Chain Bridge rising out of fog: Gallila-Photo on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn

  • Tallinn Old Town from above: the city walls, towers and Toompea: Rasmus Andersen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vilnius Old Town: a curving street of pastel houses under a blue sky: Oskaras Verbickas on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vilnius: the white cathedral bell tower on Cathedral Square reflected in a puddle: Tadas Petrokas on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vilnius from above: old town roofs and church towers among trees: Sarunas Gedvilas on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Trakai Island Castle: the red-brick castle at the end of its wooden footbridge: Victor Malyushev on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Riga Old Town from above: the Dome Cathedral tower and red roofs toward the Daugava: Martti Salmi on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tallinn: Old Town towers and church spire above red roofs and trees: Martti Salmi on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tallinn Old Town: red roofs, towers and the spire of St Olaf's: Uniq Trek on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tallinn Old Town lit at night from above: Dmitry Sumin on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

The Glacier Express isn't running right now

  • Zermatt: the Matterhorn's snowy peak lit at sunrise: Nils Leonhardt on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Glacier Express: red panoramic coaches with the Glacier Express logo crossing a snowy field: Karin Hugentobler on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bernina Express red RhB train on the curve below the Morteratsch glacier: Andri S on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Brusio spiral viaduct on the Bernina line with a red RhB train: Azzedine Rouichi on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Kraków in a winter weekend

  • Krakow Main Square: the Cloth Hall with a horse-drawn carriage in front: Katarzyna Pracuch on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Krakow: St Mary's Basilica's twin towers above the Main Square: Iggy Love on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Kazimierz, Krakow: an old courtyard passage with arches: Svitlana on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Wieliczka Salt Mine: a salt-carved figure underground beside a carved inscription: Noemi Palmieri on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Stockholm to the Arctic by night train

  • Abisko from above: the village, the railway and the road along Lake Tornetrask under a pale sky: Ojan on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Stockholm Central Station: the Centralstation lettering above the entrance: Mai Sakura on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Kiruna area: ICEHOTEL interior corridor of carved ice columns, Jukkasjarvi: Tobias Fischer on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Abisko National Park in winter: a walker on a snowy trail through birch woods: Grandmaster Huon on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Northern lights over a lodge building in Abisko: US Embassy Sweden on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

Venice's entry fee

  • Venice: the domes of Santa Maria della Salute above the Grand Canal under a pale sky: Henrique Ferreira on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Venice: colourful palazzi along a canal with boats: Kit Suman on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Venice: a gondola on a narrow canal between old houses: Brandon Sok on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Burano: the island's brightly painted houses along the canal: Wojciech Wyszkowski on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Croatia's islands in winter

  • Hvar Town: yachts in the harbour and the Pakleni islands offshore, seen from above: Content Pixie on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Mljet: limestone rocks and wildflowers above the sea at sunset: Aleksandar Vučin on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Jadrolinija car ferry turning in a Croatian island harbour: Lukas on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Hvar Town harbour: sailing boats moored along the palm-lined waterfront: Timo Wielink on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Mljet: the calm green water of the island's lakes and pine shore: Aron Marinelli on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Jadrolinija ferry deck at dusk with the sea and an island on the horizon: Tomi Blasic on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

The Grossglockner closes for winter. Here's the plan

  • Grossglockner High Alpine Road winding through fresh snow: Lukas Marek on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Grossglockner: the Grossglockner's pyramid peak above the Pasterze glacier: Katharina Polman on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Zell am See: the lake with the town on its shore below the mountains: Dimitris Kiriakakis on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Hallstatt lakeside village with church spire: ahmetyuksek on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Winter sun in January

  • Funchal, Madeira: the city on its bay below green hills under a big pale sky: Rumman Amin on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Funchal, Madeira: palm trees and the city's terraced hills at golden hour: darolti dan on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Funchal, Madeira: red roofs down to the harbour and a cruise ship, the Atlantic beyond: Kirill Khripunov on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Levada walk in Madeira: a hiker beside a waterfall in green laurel forest: Hikerwise.com on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Malaga: the cathedral tower over the city under a pale sky: Barbara-Iandolo on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Seville: Plaza de Espana canal with rowing boats: MrsBrown on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Faro, Portugal: boats in the marina under a blue sky: William V on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Dubrovnik without the cruise crowds

  • Dubrovnik: the walled Old Town and harbour from the hillside, deep blue sea and sky: Bikash Guragai on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dubrovnik: view through a stone window in the walls over the Old Town to Lokrum island: Arber Pacara on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dubrovnik Walls: the view down the Stradun from above, with the Franciscan bell tower: Kellie Benz on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dubrovnik Walls: Fort St John and the city walls above the old harbour: Ivan Ivankovic on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Srd: the Dubrovnik cable car cabin climbing above the Old Town: Denis on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dubrovnik: the old port with boats, arched arsenal and the cathedral dome in warm evening light: Dawid Tkocz on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Europe's night trains

  • Rome: the Colosseum's outer wall rising into a pale grey sky: Jorgen Hendriksen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Nightjet: the OBB Nightjet NJ 490 destination board, Wien Hbf to Bruxelles Midi: Simon Tartarotti on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Rome: the Colosseum facade under a blue sky with visitors on the lawn: Florian Klassen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Amsterdam canal lined with trees and houseboats, open sky: Adrien Olichon on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Hamburg: the Elbphilharmonie and church spires across the water with a sailing boat: Niklas Ohlrogge (niamoh.de) on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vienna, museum dome on Maria-Theresien-Platz: Sekau67 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Berlin: the Brandenburg Gate at the end of the avenue under a pale sky: Ansgar Scheffold on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Prague, Charles Bridge at dawn toward the Old Town Bridge Tower: rlahuddin on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Milan: the Duomo's white Gothic facade across the empty piazza under a soft pink sky: Ouael Ben Salah on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

The Christmas markets still open after Christmas Day

  • Schonbrunn Palace seen from the Gloriette with Vienna beyond: Martin Zenker on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt on the Hauptmarkt by day: garten-gg on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Schonbrunn Palace yellow facade behind the flower parterre: E. Diop on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Prague, Old Town Square: the Christmas market stalls below the Old Town Hall tower and the Tyn church spires: Ahmadreza Zibaei on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Prague, Wenceslas Square: the National Museum at the top of the square behind its gardens: Tharun Thejas J P on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Prater, Vienna: the Riesenrad giant Ferris wheel at dusk above Riesenradplatz, Wiener Riesenrad sign below: Krisztian Tabori on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Budapest Advent market at St Stephen's Basilica at night: artbejo on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Vienna, Rathausplatz: the Wiener Christkindlmarkt arch lit in front of the City Hall at night: Nenad Kaevik on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vienna, Upper Belvedere with the Austrian flag: 4666192 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Barcelona, Andorra, Toulouse

  • Andorra: snow-covered Pyrenees peaks above a hillside of scrub and pines under a deep blue sky: carmen dominguez on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Arinsal, Andorra: a groomed ski slope with lift poles and snowy Pyrenees peaks: AlLes on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Barcelona: Park Guell's mosaic bench and gatehouse tower with the city behind: Dorian D1 on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Andorra la Vella: Casa de la Vall, the old stone parliament house with the Andorran flag: BarbeeAnne on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Toulouse: a pink-brick street leading to the tower of the Basilica of Saint-Sernin: Matteo CATHELIN on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Albi: the Pont Vieux over the Tarn with the brick cathedral above: Filipe Nobre on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Tromsø in 3 days

  • Tromso: the Arctic Cathedral's white triangle at left, Tromsdalen's houses and the snowy mountain above, the sound in front: Faris Mohammed on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tromso: aurora over a snowy shore with people watching: Lightscape on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tromso seen from above at blue hour, the view from Fjellheisen's upper station: the Tromso Bridge, the island city and snowy hills: Munir Rani on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tromso: green aurora over snowy shoreline rocks: Lightscape on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • The Arctic Cathedral in Tromso lit up at night, its glass triangle glowing: Dana Andreea Gheorghe on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Northern lights over a lodge building in Abisko: US Embassy Sweden on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

6 winter dates in Britain and Ireland you can't move

  • Newgrange passage tomb low in the frame under a big pale-blue sky with clouds: Adrien Olichon on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Edinburgh Castle floodlit at night above the city: Roan Lavery on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Newgrange: the white quartz wall of the passage tomb from the side, a standing stone at right, blue sky: Gobbolino the witch's cat on Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Starling murmuration over Gretna, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland (photo taken 4 Nov 2019): caroline legg on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Bath Abbey west front with its tall window and towers under a blue sky: Bradley Pritchard Jones on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Belfast City Hall, green domes and stone front, people on the lawn in front: K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Fireworks over Edinburgh Castle at night, used for the Edinburgh Hogmanay slide; which night is not known: Chris Flexen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Inverness: the Ness Bridge over the River Ness with the town's stone buildings behind: kolibri5 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Winter sun without leaving Europe

  • Malaga: the cathedral tower over the city under a pale sky: Barbara-Iandolo on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Malaga: La Malagueta bullring, the city and the sea: ELG21 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Alhambra, Granada, under the snow-capped Sierra Nevada: Makalu on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Seville: Plaza de Espana tower and canal bridge under open blue sky: Alcantrez on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Malaga: the cathedral above the old town: Olga_Fil on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Alhambra, Granada: a palace seen through a carved arch: franky1st on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Seville: Plaza de Espana canal with rowing boats: MrsBrown on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Seville: Plaza de Espana arcade under the Spanish flag: MemoryCatcher on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Meteora in winter

  • Meteora rock towers and valley under a pale sunrise sky, Thessaly: Laurens R. Krol on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Meteora: a monastery on top of a sheer rock pillar: Terysis on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Meteora: a large monastery spread across a rock summit: MichelleCoppiens on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Meteora: a monastery among rock towers and green hills: MemoryCatcher on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Meteora rock towers in autumn colour: johnNaturePhotos on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Meteora: the rock pillars above Kalambaka under a pale sky: Bandelmug on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0

Škocjan vs Postojna

  • Skocjan Caves: limestone cliff and forest at the collapse doline: Jakub Hałun on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Skocjan Caves: lit underground canyon with the river below: Jakub Hałun on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Skocjan Caves: the underground gorge and walkway lights: Jakub Hałun on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Skocjan Caves: the river gorge outside the cave, green walls: Jakub Hałun on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Postojna Cave: tall stalactite and stalagmite columns: Jakub Hałun on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Postojna Cave: a large chamber with visitors on the walkway: Jakub Hałun on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0

Aurora: how to pick where to go this winter

  • Abisko Lapporten: the U-shaped pass seen across frozen Lake Tornetrask: Hendrik Morkel on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Northern lights over a lodge building in Abisko: US Embassy Sweden on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Tromso: green aurora over snowy shoreline rocks: Lightscape on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Tromso: aurora over a snowy shore with people watching: Lightscape on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Rovaniemi: the Lumberjack's Candle Bridge lit at night over the frozen river: themadpenguin on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Kiruna area: ICEHOTEL interior corridor of carved ice columns, Jukkasjarvi: Tobias Fischer on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Lofoten: aurora over sea and mountain peaks: Sami Matias Breilin on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Lofoten: green aurora swirling over snowy peaks and water: Matthieu Gouiffes on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Paris, Ghent, Amsterdam

  • Paris: the Eiffel Tower over the Seine under a pale sky: Káplár Bálint Áron on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Paris: the Eiffel Tower under a wide pink evening sky: Amelia Cui on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Gravensteen castle in Ghent above the canal, tour boats below: Eduard Delputte on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Amsterdam canal lined with trees and houseboats, open sky: Adrien Olichon on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Paris: the Eiffel Tower above the Seine and its barges: Yovan Verma on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Paris: the Eiffel Tower from the Seine bank, blue sky and clouds: Svetlana Gumerova on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Gravensteen castle in Ghent above its moat, blue sky: Geert Willemarck on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Gravensteen castle in Ghent from above, the old town and towers beyond: Eduard Delputte on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Amsterdam gabled canal houses and bikes reflected in the canal: Gaurav Jain on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Amsterdam canal with moored boats and a bike on the bridge rail: Clarisa Ravasotti on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Closed: Central Europe's winter shutdowns

  • Glacier Express: red panoramic coaches with the Glacier Express logo crossing a snowy field: Karin Hugentobler on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Schonbrunn Palace seen from the Gloriette with Vienna beyond: Martin Zenker on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Bernina Express red RhB train on the curve below the Morteratsch glacier: Andri S on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Gellert Baths main indoor pool, colonnades under a glass roof: Linoleum Creative Collective on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Vintgar Gorge: white water through the rock chute: Mat Scott on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Grossglockner High Alpine Road winding through fresh snow: Lukas Marek on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Cesky Krumlov Castle: the painted round tower above the rock: Minku Kang on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Hallstatt church and lakefront at dusk: Vined on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Schonbrunn Palace yellow facade behind the flower parterre: E. Diop on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Szechenyi Baths outdoor pool in front of the yellow neo-baroque wings, Budapest: Linda Gerbec on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

Edinburgh in winter

  • Edinburgh Castle at right of the Old Town skyline, pink dusk sky: Rob Wingate on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Edinburgh Castle walls on Castle Rock under a blue sky: Jirath Ninchaikovit on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Edinburgh Castle floodlit at night above the city: Roan Lavery on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock behind autumn branches: Toa Heftiba on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • The Vennel steps off the Grassmarket with Edinburgh Castle above: Sid Saxena on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Calton Hill: the Dugald Stewart Monument with the Old Town and Balmoral clock beyond: Julia Solonina on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Dean Village: mill houses above the Water of Leith in autumn colour: Joan on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Edinburgh Christmas market site, East Princes Street Gardens: Scott Monument and the Star Flyer ride: Antony Hyson Seltran on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)
  • Fireworks over Edinburgh Castle at night, used for the Edinburgh Hogmanay slide; which night is not known: Chris Flexen on Unsplash · Unsplash License (API use: credit required)

3 countries, 1 week, no flights

  • Budapest Parliament and Chain Bridge rising out of fog: Gallila-Photo on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Vienna, Upper Belvedere with the Austrian flag: 4666192 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Bratislava Castle above the Danube: Ajale on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Budapest Chain Bridge at night with the lit Parliament: blizniak on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Vienna, museum dome on Maria-Theresien-Platz: Sekau67 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Bratislava, Michael's Gate tower: Leonhard_Niederwimmer on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Budapest Parliament facade across the Danube by day: Elstef on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Christmas markets to book now

  • Vienna Rathaus Christkindlmarkt by day: StockSnap on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Budapest Advent market at St Stephen's Basilica at night: artbejo on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Colmar old town street with Maison Pfister: tranmautritam on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Strasbourg Christmas market crowd beside the Maison Kammerzell: Jorge Franganillo on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt on the Hauptmarkt by day: garten-gg on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Prague, Charles Bridge at dawn toward the Old Town Bridge Tower: rlahuddin on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Zagreb, Croatian National Theatre: FilipFilipovic on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Porto + Lisbon

  • Lisbon, Belém Tower with boardwalk over the Tagus: Medienservice on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Porto, rabelo boats on the Douro with the Ribeira behind: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Porto, Dom Luís I bridge over the Douro with the Ribeira and the Sé above: RichardMc on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Lisbon, drone climb up the Elevador de Santa Justa to its top platform: Obsidian_Ardor on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Porto, Cais da Ribeira riverside houses: franky1st on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Lisbon, yellow tram 28 on a cobbled street: essuera on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Porto rooftops seen from the Torre dos Clerigos: Wikimedia Commons · CC0
  • Porto, port barrels ageing in a Vila Nova de Gaia cellar across the river: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Lisbon, the Manueline cloister of the Jeronimos Monastery: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.0
  • Lisbon, a red tram climbing a street in Alfama: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

7 European autumn escapes before November

  • Prague, Charles Bridge at dawn toward the Old Town Bridge Tower: rlahuddin on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Hallstatt church and lakefront at dusk: Vined on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Lake Bled island church in mist: Paul_Henri on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Douro Valley terraced vineyards over the river: Svetlanatravel on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Val d'Orcia, Podere Belvedere farmhouse near San Quirico d'Orcia: kasabubu on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Colmar old town street with Maison Pfister: tranmautritam on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Prague, Charles Bridge in golden morning mist: dropolto on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Neuschwanstein Castle gatehouse with the Alps behind: Helmut_Kroiss on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

How to see all of Andalusia in one road trip

  • Seville, Plaza de España from the upper gallery: USA-Reiseblogger on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Cordoba (Córdoba), Roman bridge with the Mezquita-Cathedral behind: Makalu on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Granada, the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada: christophermw71 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Ronda, Puente Nuevo and the white town on the El Tajo cliffs: Julia Kostecka on Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0
  • Setenil de las Bodegas, houses built into the rock overhang: alejandrocuencac on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Cadiz (Cádiz), cathedral above the Campo del Sur seafront: the_iop on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License

Day trips from Paris

  • Paris rooftops with the Eiffel Tower, seen from the Arc de Triomphe: dnovac on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Versailles, Salon de la Guerre in the Palace of Versailles: amelie09996 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Giverny, Monet's water-lily pond with the Japanese bridge: Sinason on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Reims, west front of Notre-Dame de Reims cathedral: dodo71 on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Fontainebleau, Galerie de Diane in the Château de Fontainebleau: edmondlafoto on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Chantilly, Château de Chantilly on its moat: SLPix on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License
  • Mont-Saint-Michel island abbey and causeway: komissaralex on Pixabay · Pixabay Content License