Europe Art, Gardens & parks, Nature + Peaceful pictures

• World

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.

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

Relax by the pond, walk through landscaped gardens, and admire the elegant statues and buildings in one of Madrid’s biggest and most popular parks.

With some of Spain’s foremost modern and contemporary artworks and a collection that ranks among the world’s finest, this is a museum art lovers won’t want to miss.

Be spellbound by the scale and splendor of the Spanish Royal Family’s former official residence.

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

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

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

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

Explore a charming Italian town with an impressive Romanesque Gothic cathedral, elegant palaces, underground Roman pools and delicious local food.

Maze-like hedges, marble sculptures and colorful flower beds adorn this historic royal garden, where the palace’s stables and carriages once lay.

From its architecture to its industry and sporting events, this is a city of fascinating contrasts just an hour by train from London.