Europe Bird, Castles & palaces, Island & reefs + Mountain 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?

Glide down the slopes of this mountain pass and visit the neighboring valley resorts in one of Europe’s highest ski areas.

Experience the otherworldly splendor of the Lysefjord as you hike to this peculiar viewing platform, photographing sheer cliffs and stunning vistas along the way.

Top sights in this small village in Austria’s Lake District include a 4000-year-old salt mine and the historic village square.

Embark on a trip to the heart of the Italian Lakes and discover a landscape that exudes charm, elegance and natural beauty. 

Stand at the top of Gibraltar’s most famous landmark and enjoy panoramic views, a wealth of historic attractions and the famous macaque monkeys.

Embark on a trip to the heart of the Italian Lakes and discover a landscape that exudes charm, elegance and natural beauty. 

Experience the architecture of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, ski the Alps, discover Bregenzerwald villages and enjoy Vienna’s whirlwind art and music culture.

Make your way along elegant promenades to find medieval churches, thermal spas and stunning gardens in the shadow of the Italian Alps. 

Make your way along elegant promenades to find medieval churches, thermal spas and stunning gardens in the shadow of the Italian Alps. 

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.

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

Top sights in this small village in Austria’s Lake District include a 4000-year-old salt mine and the historic village square.

Ski, climb and enjoy the exceptional natural beauty of this Swiss city where one of the world’s most spectacular mountains dominates the skyline.

Beloved by hikers, this unusual landscape is dotted with fractured rock formations, shimmering lochs and a hidden grassy plateau.

Overlooking Lake Geneva, the breathtaking snow-capped Alps provide the backdrop for medieval history, culture, luxury shopping and Swiss chocolate.

Embark on a trip to the heart of the Italian Lakes and discover a landscape that exudes charm, elegance and natural beauty. 

Photograph fascinating geological formations, spot varied wildlife and look out at a chain of scenic bays from the top of an emblematic rock. 

Imagine you have been transported back in time as you explore this spectacular 11th-century castle, a neo-Gothic masterpiece that seems straight from a story.

Beloved by hikers, this unusual landscape is dotted with fractured rock formations, shimmering lochs and a hidden grassy plateau.