Rick Steves' Europe Video

Rome offers layer upon layer of the best of Western civilization: ancient grandeur, epic history, artistic masterpieces, and a city in love with life. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

The quintessence of Italy can be found in the scenic hills of Tuscany and Umbria, where towns full of history, tradition, and character draw visitors. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

These five isolated (though hardly undiscovered) coastal villages boast views worth the hike, rugged ports to explore, and locals enjoying life. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Florence emerged as a cultural titan during the Renaissance as humanism roared to life, and its artistic tradition thrives today throughout the city. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

The romantic maze of islands, once a center of formidable power and wealth, still seduces visitors with its unique setting steeped in elegant decay. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

A Gdańsk shipyard in 1980 marked the beginning of the end for the Soviet Bloc, as striking workers led by Lech Wałęsa took a stand for their rights. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Maritime trade flourished — and the movement for freedom emerged — in elegant, eclectic Gdańsk, Poland's leading port city with a Hanseatic pedigree. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Poland's cosmopolitan capital thrives with a post-industrial charm that coexists among reminders of a complicated and sometimes harrowing history. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

The rise of Stalin brought about the planned city of Nowa Huta, a proof of concept for communism in which workers' every need was met by the company. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

The notorious Nazi death camp is a powerful memorial to the more than 1 million victims systematically exterminated there during World War II. For more information about Auschwitz-Birkenau, visit https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/poland/auschwitz-birkenau For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Fourteenth-century ruler Kazimierz the Great made Poland a safe haven for Europe's Jews, who prospered in Kraków until the horrors of World War II. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Rick learns about the nuances of Poland's national drink and—with help from a local friend—tries his hand at preparing a traditional favorite dish. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

In Poland's historic and cultural capital, traditions live on while modern life bustles in the busy main square, inviting streets, and riverside park. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

The South Coast's craggy Westman Islands teem with fishing boats and puffin colonies. Their lone town was half buried in 1973 when its volcano blew. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Two hours' drive from Reykjavík are some of Iceland's biggest natural thrills, including Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the rugged valley of Thórsmörk. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

An easy day trip from Reykjavík, the 150-mile Golden Circle loop showcases dramatic scenery and natural wonders, from geysers to waterfalls and more. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Iceland's volcanic geology shapes its striking landscape, its efficient power supply, and its steamy spa culture enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Reykjavík blends hardscrabble roots with a modern urban vitality, crowned by its imposing church and pulsing with art, color, and a cosmopolitan vibe. For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

These days Europe is very crowded—everybody seems to be going to the same places at the same times. There are two IQs of European travelers: those who wait in long lines and those who don’t. Savvy travelers avoid the crowds and make reservations in advance when smart. Watch the full talk at https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/video/tv-show/experiencing-europe For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.

Thoughtfully decide what’s best for you—a guided bus tour or a DIY trip armed with a good guidebook. And either way, appreciate the value of tapping into the services of local guides whether on shared walks or hired just for you. Watch the full talk at https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/video/tv-show/experiencing-europe For European travel information, visit https://www.ricksteves.com.