Where to Go After Western Europe!

The "old continent" is a place where rich cultural heritage and natural beauty meet and create one unforgettable holiday. The picture of Europe which movies and media usually serve us is quite idealistic. Gourmet food, world-known museums, mesmerizing architecture, and profaned lifestyle became almost synonyms for a European vacation. 

However, there's so much more to this continent than Western Europe. Of course, Paris is wonderful, and nothing can beat clubbing in Prague, but the smell of the Mediterranean is something extra. When in doubt with what to visit next in Europe, take a turn south and meet the place where once great civilizations existed. Italy, Greece, Turkey, and countries of ex-Yugoslavia offer an equally good amount of fun with an unbeatable bonus: the Sun is always warmer than on the West coast.

Italy

Oh, the land of food and amore! Italy is one of the most popular destinations and a life-long dream for many people. If there was a list of top countries to visit in Europe, Italy would be #1. Even though it's not territorially large as France or Germany, Italy has so much to offer. You'd need a year to check out everything! The northern part of the country is everyone's first stop. A trip can't go by without tossing a coin in Rome's Fontana di Trevi, or sliding through many of Venice's canals. Milan, Rome, and Venice are some kind of holy trinity among tourists. Still, I want to show you Italy off the beaten path. Not many people tend to visit these places, which is a big shame. Or is it? Maybe these hidden gems should stay that way for everyone's sake.

Besides being the land of love and food, Italy's also the land of wine. The Tuscan region is living proof. Any Italian wine is great, but those bottles made by the skilled hands and filled with grapes aged under the warm Tuscan sun, can't be overtopped. Just imagine the scene: you're sipping wine on your villa's terrace, view on vineyards is spectacular while the sun sets in on the hills of Tuscany. When day breaks in, get on the road and start exploring towns. A short ride stands from your villa to almost any charming Tuscan town.

For years Sicily has been degraded and on a bad reputation. This unfair treatment finally stopped popping up on the radar. More tourists choose Sicily for their vacation nowadays. The island is a magnificent blend of historical sights and nature's wonders. Whether you nibble on arancini in Orytigia or go climbing Mount Etna, you're about to create extraordinary memories. Sicily is Italy's precious gem.

Even though Sicily's neighbor, Sardinia, is equally beautiful, the island is not that popular among the tourists. But, hey, that’s a treat for us! The island is a dream for anyone looking for a summer adventure. Spend all day on any of the gorgeous beaches, or go exploring old castles, caves, and mines. Don't tell me I didn't warn you about those 600 steps down to the cave of Nettuno. It's an effort worth taking. Sardinia is a delightful island inviting you to come, visit, and stay forever. It's so beautiful you'll be tempted to move here for good.

Greece

When someone mentions Greece the first thing that pops up in my mind is "partying". The list follows up with hedonism, sensual bouzouki music, amazing beaches, and history living through everything and everyone. Greece is a place with a soul. You come here to experience that hedonism and live life to the fullest. Anywhere you go in Greece you can expect delicious food, warm hospitality, and amusing activities. Choose between an active or a laid-back vacation. Version no. 1 brings you a trip through the history of sites Athens, Sparta, Thessaloniki, Corinth, Katakolo, and many others. Version no.2 is all about sun, sand, and sea. Hardly anyone can resist the typical summer vacation in Greece. Even though it's extremely popular, Santorini is the place to visit. You'll never find a better view than here.

 Turkey

Istanbul is a place where the east meets the west. A city on two continents. A place where different civilizations have clashed for centuries. The historical events have left mark on today's Istanbul. It's a wonderful blend of different architectural styles and proof that every culture is welcome here. Even though I recommend taking trips off the beaten path, I have to make an exception when it comes to Istanbul. Go there, visit every place tourists usually do. It's worth it. Haggle on the centuries-old market Kapali Carsi. See where the sultans have lived in Topkapi Saray and Dolmabahçe Palace. Finish the day with sightseeing Istanbul from the Bosphorus.

Cappadoccia is a place that looks almost out of this world. Those Instagram-worthy photos of hot air balloons you see all over the place are from this historical region in central Turkey. A place like this is nowhere else to be found. Make sure you put it on your bucket list.

You've probably never heard of Alacati, but hear me out. This tiny town is located outside Izmir, and it's not one of those places where you get sick and tired of wandering around. The accent is on the laid-back vacation where you enjoy strolling down the cobbled streets, eating delicious Turkish dishes, and simply soaking up the beauty of the main street. I tell you, a picture of Alacati's worth a million words.

Ex-Yugoslavia

 What it once was one country united in leadership and patriotism, now it's a region with six separate countries. However, don't let this revelation make you visit just one. Why not making a trip through all six Yugoslovenian countries? Start with Slovenia which is up north. This small country may be small territorially, but it has such an immense value. Whether you go skiing on Slovenian Alps, or decide to take a boat ride on the magnificent Bled Lake, you're in for a treat. Slovenians might appear reserved, but they're a friendly nation ready to show you their hospitality.

When you move down south, the next country you'll see is Croatia- the land of beaches. Croatia's one of the most popular summer destinations in south-eastern Europe. The water's sparkling, the beaches are clean, and the food from all over the country is the comfort food we all are looking for. Start your way down from Istra to Dalmatia. Some of the most unique historical cities like Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik and a perfect blend of modern times and historical values.

Croatia Old Town

Croatia's neighbor, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is another small country with a big heart. You come here to taste amazing food, but you stay for the warm hospitality and the country's many stunning landmarks. This region was under a 500-year long occupation by the Ottoman Empire which has left mark on the today's Bosnia. Many cities still have that oriental charm nobody can resist. Neither will you! If you visit the country's capital, Sarajevo, you'll always come back for more.

On the other side of the river Drina lies a place with centuries-long tradition, Serbia. Serbians are great hosts. Their cuisine is typical Balkan cuisine, not suitable for vegans at all. They love their meat here, so if you do too, make sure to pay a visit to Leskovac. Here you'll find the best barbecue in Balkan. A full belly means it's time to explore the rest of the country. Belgrade, the capital, and Novi Sad are a must to see. If you're looking for a charming and elegant city, Novi Sad is a place for you. Modern travelers will love Belgrade, a beehive of opportunities.

Montenegro was once in a union with Serbia, but they split back in the early 2000s. This country is standing alone ever since and nailing that tourism business. The Montenegrian coast of the Adriatic Sea is one of the most popular shores in Europe. People from all over the Balkans come for a family vacation in Bar, Kotor, Herceg Novi, and Ulcinj. These towns have a dose of history still lying around the city's streets. Boredom? Not in Montenegro, not ever!

Macedonia has recently changed its official name, but it hasn't changed its value. The list of amazing things to do and see in Macedonia is still great. A country famous through centuries by giving the world Alexander the Great, is now a lovely ethno country still valuing old traditions. When in Macedonia, Lake Ohrid should be your first stop. The Lake is an impressive location widely known for its summer festival. However, if you're not a fan of crowded places then the Pelister National Park would be perfect for you. The tranquil getaway attracts campers and hikers and offers splendid, unspoiled nature. All you have to do is breathe and relax.

I hope this list has given you some ideas to inspire your next trips to Europe! If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing :)