Europe Castles & palaces, Flowers + People pictures

• World

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, nestled between extinct volcanoes and hills, is almost fairytale in appearance, with its medieval buildings in the Old Town and the wide streets and spacious homes Georgian New Town, and the spectacular castle looking down from its cliff. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995, which only begs the question: why did it take so long?

Tour some of the country\'s oldest towns and cities, relax on beaches and hike up coastal hills in the region surrounding the capital city of Portugal.

Investigate a vast collection of modern and contemporary art both inside and outside one of the most recognizable buildings in Bilbao.

Admire the redbrick Gothic design of this 14th-century treasure and spot the intriguing signs of the occult dotted around it.

Escape the city and head to one of the world’s largest urban parks, which has lakes and meadows, as well as beer gardens and a variety of interesting relics.

See the magnificent rock formation, said to resemble a bear, which gives this beautiful and unspoiled sandy beach its name.

Visit the upscale ski resorts, trek across the snow-capped mountains and learn about the mixtures of cultures in this eclectic region.

Enjoy the tranquil setting of this spacious sandy haven flanked by a miniature railway and an aquarium with Humboldt penguins.

Go to the top of this great mountain in San Sebastián and visit a traditional amusement park with spectacular views as a backdrop.

One of the Costa Blanca’s finest beaches is loved by locals and vacationers alike for its soft sand, crystalline water, busy promenade and nightlife. 

Nature and technology, history, festivals and performing arts make this one of the most popular cities in Germany’s Baden-Württemberg region.

One of the world’s smallest countries lies within eastern Italy’s countryside. Visit the longstanding city-state for natural beauty, culture and food specialties.

Learn about Toulouse’s long history of aeronautics with the three guided tours of this iconic developer’s factory and main sites.

Although it’s not the Auvergne region’s highest summit, this dormant lava dome is its most iconic. Join the thousands of hikers who visit every year.

Stroll along the top of an ancient waterway, now a picturesque path that cuts through the heart of Perugia’s old town.

A lake and a majestic fountain are among the highlights in this urban park that stands on the site of the city’s former fortress.

This pretty fishing village has a scenic seaside setting. Lounge on the beach, explore the characterful old fishing district and visit the ancient castle. 

Ponds, sculptures and slides grace the leafy park near this long and innovative two-part bridge that doesn’t quite meet in the middle. 

Learn about changes in Swedish culture since the 16th century. Find historic furniture and photographs and displays about local festivals and the Sami culture.

Climb down the elegant staircase to this hidden bay at the base of colorful cliffs and enjoy the spectacular natural views. 

Visit this centerpiece of a program of new construction in Stuttgart for the architecture as well as the books contained inside.