Like most of Europe, there is no clear demarcation of the countries that fit into Northern Europe and many variations exist. However, the United Nations geoscheme places 10 countries in Northern Europe, from the five Scandinavian countries to the United Kingdom, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, and Iceland, along with 7 dependent areas like the Isle of Man, Faroe Islands, and Jersey.
Northern Europe with its wide expanse of wilderness, forests, lakes, and volcanoes, enshrined by the mystical northern lights epitomizes all that the great outdoors should be. Some of Europe’s best hiking trails are located in this scenic expanse of land which also has some breathtakingly beautiful coastline. Winter transforms the verdant green into thick carpets of snow, giving rise to some of the best skiing sites in the world. Most countries in this part of Europe have developed economies and their cities are shining examples of the high standards of living. Some of the cleanest cities in the world such as Copenhagen and Stockholm are located in Northern Europe where green sustainable living is a way of life. Despite the long depressing winters, Northern Europe also has some of the happiest cities in the world, with Reykjavik, Helsinki, and Bergen featuring in this list.
The capital of the Republic of Ireland, Dublin, is an addictive blend of hedonism and heritage, topped off with a dash of the friendly and warm Irish spirit. It’s a city chock-full of history, whether it’s its Viking past, its elegant Georgian architecture, or the cathedrals and medieval castles. What makes it all the better…
In Southwest England, the stunning Cotswolds region undulates gracefully across six counties and almost 800 sq. miles. It is a delightful tangle of honey-colored mansions, evocative churches, thatched cottages, and golden villages. In fact, due to the picturesque villages and towns, it was designated an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” in 1966. It’s no wonder…
There are many reasons to fall in love with Finland. For us, Turku is at the top of the list of the best cities in Finland. Mixing history with breathtaking natural sceneries, we can spend weeks here without getting bored. And, of course, we must find the best hotels in Turku, Finland, to make our…
No city in the world does luxury hotels quite like London. The Swinging City’s oldest five-star guesthouses, like Claridge’s and Brown’s, date back to the Georgian era. Next came the Victorian age and the rise of the illustrious railway hotel, which is the Landmark London and Andaz Liverpool Street. Then, of course, there are the grand…
Edinburgh is one of the popular travel destinations in Europe. Once we reached the city, we were overwhelmed by the medieval vibes this city is characterized by. It’s a city you’ll love to walk on its streets and discover everything yourself. However, sometimes we just have to stay near the airport as much as possible…
Britain’s second-largest city Birmingham brims with exciting possibilities. The city boasts beautifully restored Victorian buildings, picturesque canals, and glitzy, futuristic real estate. And it also boasts a fantastic heritage in the form of the Jewelry Quarter. What’s more, Birmingham is also home to a diverse and vibrant LGBTQ+ population and also hosts the UK’s biggest…
Quirky, eccentric, and stylish, Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a diamond in the rough. Its tranquil bylanes and grand thoroughfares are full of avant-garde architecture and New Nordic drinking and dining venues. What’s more, sitting right outside the city are some of the most sublime natural environments in the world. Undoubtedly, the city had…
The 21st-century, urban-chic city of Leeds in northern England shines with a distinct and yet un-overwhelming Yorkshire swagger. It boasts a fabulous drinking-dining scene and revitalized architecture. Leeds is also famous for being one of the friendliest gay cities in England, with LGBTQ people accounting for almost 10% of the city’s population. In fact, Leeds’…
There’s no place in Yorkshire, or Northern England for that matter, that felt quite as ‘medieval’ to us as York. Its age-old streets are brimming with history, attracting hordes of travelers like us looking for a classic historic English experience. The city is an incredible labyrinth of 13th-century walls, at the heart of which likes…
Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a great place for a Scandinavian gay cation. Here, LGBT+ people are not just tolerated; they’re warmly welcomed and accepted with open arms. That’s why we found so many gay hotels in Reykjavik. What’s more, we had many choices from a wide selection of LGBTQ-friendly places to suit all…
Bristol in South West England straddles the River Avon and is one of the largest cities in England. The city is awash with the past, right from heritage structures, derelict docks-turned-leisure venues, and an iconic suspension bridge. Moreover, Bristol is famous for its quirky, alternative character and counterculture vibe, thanks to a world-class street art scene.…
The volcanic and glacial landscape of Iceland demands travel beyond its urban centers. When you rent a car, you can explore at your own pace and stop whenever you find something interesting. This article will explain how to go about renting a car in Iceland and why you should go with Reykjavik Cars. Keep reading!…
With so much life, culture, history, and attractions, it’s no surprise that you’d want to spend your family vacation in London. In this very old yet modern and progressive city, you can experience the best of everything. Whether you’re interested in history, art, fashion, or food, this capital city of England has it all. As…
If you wanted to spend your nights in London before the 19th century, your options were to rent a house, check into your gentleman’s club, or get a room at a lodging. But thanks to the industrial revolution and the introduction of the railways, people started visiting London more often. In order to accommodate travelers,…
Despite being the capital city, London happens to be England’s smallest city. Even so, London proves to be one of the world’s leading global financial centers. That said, you can find plenty of fantastic business hotels in London. On top of that, London is also home to some of the most magnificent cultures, arts, histories,…
“The Fair City” Dublin is a richly layered destination of character, community spirit, and culture and is Ireland’s big hitter. While the city is overflowing with things to see and do, chances are you might tire of urban exploration. And what’s even better is that most of Ireland’s gorgeously wild countryside can be reached easily by…
Once an industrial port town, Malmo is now an incredible city that attracts many travelers. As the third-largest city in Sweden, it’s known for its innovative, environmental take on a modern city. It’s home to Scandinavia’s tallest building, the iconic Turning Torso, world-class museums, and some beautiful parks. What’s more, there are many restaurants that’ll…
The seaside resort city of Blackpool sits pretty on the Irish Sea coast in the United Kingdom. This Lancashire seaside getaway became popular when England’s wealthy patrons came here to bathe in seawater during the mid-18th century. But, did you know that today Blackpool is the gay capital of northern UK? Yes! There are many gay…
London is simply the best! Covering 607 square miles, this sprawling city is home to over eight million people, Big Ben, and other famous attractions. With plenty of things to do and see, this English capital brings in tons of visitors. No wonder families love to visit this beautiful city! However, it’s also (obviously) one…
London is a sprawling city, covering 607 square miles and home to over eight million people. Here, you can find a fascinating collection of nightclubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from, and what’s not to love about a country that immerses itself in lush green spaces! This big city is so captivating that you might…
London is the city that has it all! Whether it’s incredible history, stunning architecture, top grub, fantastic shopping, immersive exhibitions, charming parks, you name it! Since it’s twice as big as New York, you can rest assured that there are tons of exciting things to do in the capital city of the United Kingdom. Since…
Not so long ago, Blackpool overlooking the Irish Sea was all about rowdy hen and stag parties and “Kiss Me Quick” hats. But, not anymore. Today, this no-nonsense Victorian-era seaside resort boasts an impressive promenade, complete with “Spanish steps,” a mesmerizing, golden-sand shoreline, and gorgeous architecture. This is besides its already long list of historical sights and…
The unofficial capital of northeast England, Newcastle upon Tyne, boasts several excellent attractions and a pulsating party scene. It’s a big draw for hen and stag parties, so you can be sure you’ll have one of the best night outs if you’re in this part of the country. Finding cheap hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne…
Idyllic lush villages with stone houses, handsome little market towns, and acres of picturesque pastureland make the Cotswolds one of the most romantic regions of the United Kingdom. The region looks resolutely designed for romantic breaks with its postcard-perfect villages, bohemian boutiques, and quaint pubs that serve afternoon tea. Of course, what also helps is…