When it comes to Europe, no two travellers are the same. Some look for crisp mountain air and fresh snow, others want sun-drenched islands or a city packed with culture. The good news is that Europe has it all – and more. Whether you’re after an active adventure, a quiet retreat, or a taste of luxury, there’s a destination to suit the way you like to travel.
Here are five places to spark your next trip, each matched to a particular style of getaway.
A Cultural Escape in Florence, Italy
For travellers who want history and art to be at the heart of their trip, Florence rarely disappoints. The city feels like an open-air museum, where you can turn a corner and find yourself in front of Renaissance architecture, sculptures, or frescoes.
The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia are obvious highlights, but there’s plenty to discover beyond the big names. Wander across the Ponte Vecchio, climb to Piazzale Michelangelo for a sweeping city view, or explore the smaller churches filled with art in quieter corners.
Florence is also a place where food and culture go hand in hand. Fresh pasta, market produce, and simple Tuscan dishes are part of the experience, making every meal another way to connect with the city. For anyone who sees travel as a way to deepen their cultural understanding, Florence is a natural fit.
Ski in Style in Lech, Austria
For those who feel most alive in the mountains, Lech is one of Europe’s top ski destinations. Tucked into Austria’s Arlberg region, it offers wide slopes, excellent snow, and a more relaxed feel compared to busier Alpine resorts. The runs here suit a mix of levels, from long, gentle pistes for beginners to challenging off-piste areas for experts.
What makes Lech special is the atmosphere. The village is compact and charming, with a traditional Austrian feel that doesn’t feel overrun. Days can be spent skiing across the Arlberg area, while evenings are all about slowing down and enjoying the mountain setting.
Staying here can be an experience in itself. There are some truly luxury ski chalets in Lech, giving you the chance to wake up to snow-covered views, step straight out onto the slopes, and unwind by a fire at the end of the day. It’s the ideal choice for anyone whose travel style leans towards active days and comfortable, cosy nights.
Set Sail on Croatia Cruises
If your idea of travel is moving from place to place without having to repack a suitcase, a cruise might be the answer. And few places are better for this than the Dalmatian coast. On Croatia cruises 2025, you’ll glide between islands, harbours, and historic towns, each with its own character.
Stops often include Split, with its Roman palace remains; Dubrovnik, with its medieval walls and sea views; and islands like Hvar or Korčula, where you can swim in clear waters and wander through stone streets. The sailing itself is part of the joy too – warm breezes, blue seas, and that easy rhythm of life on the water.
This kind of trip is perfect for travellers who want variety without complication. You get the mix of culture, beaches, and coastal scenery, all wrapped up in one smooth journey.
A Countryside Retreat in Scotland
Sometimes the best kind of travel is slow and rooted in nature. Scotland’s countryside is perfect for this style of getaway, with its combination of lochs, glens, and rugged coastlines. It’s a place where you can walk for miles without seeing another soul, or simply enjoy the quiet of a village surrounded by green hills.
The Highlands in particular are made for hiking and road trips. The North Coast 500 route takes you along winding roads with stunning sea views, while areas like Glencoe or Cairngorms National Park offer hiking trails of all levels. Wildlife is part of the experience too – keep an eye out for red deer, golden eagles, or seals along the shore.
A countryside break in Scotland is ideal if your travel style is all about escaping noise, slowing down, and soaking up dramatic landscapes.
A City Break in Barcelona, Spain
For those who like energy, variety, and a little of everything, Barcelona makes a great city break. It has beaches for lazy afternoons, architecture that ranges from Roman ruins to Gaudí’s colourful designs, and lively neighbourhoods packed with things to see and do.
Highlights include the Gothic Quarter, with its winding lanes and squares; the modernist houses along Passeig de Gràcia; and of course, the still-unfinished Sagrada Família. Park Güell is another favourite, with its playful mosaics and city views.
Barcelona also has a strong food culture, from markets like La Boqueria to simple tapas bars. Add in the city’s music, festivals, and nightlife, and you’ve got a destination that suits travellers who like to pack their days full of variety.
Matching Your Travel Style
From skiing in Lech to sailing Croatia’s islands, Europe makes it easy to shape a trip around what you enjoy most. The key is knowing your own travel style – whether it’s active, cultural, slow, or energetic – and picking a destination that matches.
No matter which you choose, you’ll find Europe has a way of turning a simple getaway into a lasting memory!