Europe Central, Island & reefs, Nature + People pictures

• World

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.

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.

Tear yourself away long enough from snorkeling and relaxing in the thermal spas of Ischia to explore this gem of a medieval fortress on a rocky islet in the Bay of Naples.

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. 

Scenic coves, rock pools and beaches decorate this picturesque coastline. An ecological footpath leads to botanical displays and beachside cafés and bars.

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.

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

The smallest and southernmost of the four principal Balearic Islands is a captivating spot with gorgeous beaches, historical buildings and picturesque landscapes.

Delight in the panoramic views of Luebeck’s rooftops, attend performing arts events and shop at a Christmas market at this converted church. 

Gaze at a shoreline dotted with pretty bays and coves, spot Balearic Islands and watch marvelous sunsets at this hilltop viewpoint. 

Build your courage for the many carnival rides on the People’s Pier and explore the sights backing onto this beach.

Tear yourself away long enough from snorkeling and relaxing in the thermal spas of Ischia to explore this gem of a medieval fortress on a rocky islet in the Bay of Naples.

Find one of Europe’s largest glaciers, its most powerful waterfall, most extensive national park and oldest parliament in this island nation on the verge of the Arctic.

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

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

Build your courage for the many carnival rides on the People’s Pier and explore the sights backing onto this beach.

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

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

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.

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

Visit the two intriguing castles that flank this historic Spanish beach and relax on its photogenic stretch of golden sand.

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

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

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