The Christmas season is one of the most picturesque times of the year to be in Europe. Many regions are covered in snow and brightly lit for the holidays. Although you’ll discover numerous Christmas markets in Europe, many of which have been set up each year in the same area for generations, you won’t find an over-commercial Christmas in any of these cities. Europeans generally focus on celebrating long-held holiday traditions instead. Sharing traditional food, drink and customs can make a holiday vacation in one of these cities feel like a visit to a simpler time in a different era.

Prague, Czech Republic

Before Christmas, Czechs buy carp live from markets at the center of town, then let them swim about in their bathtubs until Christmas Eve, when they fry them up for the holiday dinner. Tradition has it that if you carry a scale from the fish with you, you’ll have luck all year. On Christmas Eve, Czechs celebrate Christmas at home with their family. The rest of the season, you’ll find them ready to share a cup of Gluhwein (mulled wine) with you. Since the Czech Republic has its own currency, rather than the Euro, you may want to bring along a currency converter. Shop at the Christmas fair in the Old Town section of Prague, and enjoy opera, ballet or concerts at the magnificent Prague State Opera house.

Bern, Switzerland

Bern during the Christmas season looks like something out of a fairy tale. Christmas markets fill the streets, and there is a festive air throughout the city. Be sure to book ahead for dinner reservations during the holidays in Bern. Restaurants in this popular holiday destination fill up quickly. Enjoy a traditional graetimaa, a gingerman-type bread decorated with spun sugar and raisins, and don’t miss a visit to the clock tower at the center of the old town. Built at the turn of the 13th century, it still puts on an animatronics show every hour. A few minutes before the hour, a drum roll announces the appearance of a jester. Dancing bears and an old bearded king soon follow. Book in advance to tour the tower for free.

St. Petersburg, Russia

The Russian Orthodox Church in St. Petersburg celebrates Christmas on the January 7th, following the date set by the Julian calendar, but the city offers holiday-themed markets and theater throughout the season, including holiday ice shows. A Christmas market features products crafted from local designers, decorators and artists. St. Petersburg is home to the world-renowned Mariinsky Ballet company, which uses its former, more-recognizable “Kirov Ballet” name while touring. For many, a visit to see the ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre at Christmas time is a dream come true.

Bruges, Belgium

While the Christmas markets in Bruges are not unique, the town itself has enough charming little shops to keep holiday visitors engaged. Bruges is famous for its fine chocolate. At the main Christmas market, an ice rink is set up every year, and skating in the center of this picturesque town, surrounded by charming, historic architecture, is a real holiday treat.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin has almost 60 Christmas markets, and they are enjoyed by tourists and local alike. One of the best-loved markets is located at Charlottenburg Castle. Featuring about 150 vendors from all over Germany, the castles and its park are lit up with colorful lights for 35 days running. The sweet aroma of gingerbread and fruitcake wafts through the air. You’ll find the best hand-carved wooden crafts here, from Christmas tree ornaments and nativity scenes, to a wide assortment of nutcrackers.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne is another popular city in Germany during the holidays, in part due to the famous floating Christmas market. The beautiful Cologne cathedral, or Kolner Dom, presents an interesting ceremony on the Feast of the Epiphany, the day the Three Kings arrived to worship the Holy Infant. On this day, a side of the golden crypt within the cathedral is opened to reveal holy relics, believed to have belonged to the three kings. The display includes three skulls with crowns on them.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is steeped in Old World Christmas traditions during the holiday season. Masked actors play out tales of battles between good and evil in the streets. The city famed for its music shines during the holidays, with choirs and concerts everywhere. In the Children’s Christmas park in front of the Rathaus, the city’s town hall, the trees are decorated with lighted toys, hearts, candies and animals. A Christmas market is nearby, where the Advent Wreaths with its four candles are seen and sold everywhere. Visitors can enjoy rides on a horse-drawn carriage through the snowy streets, and then feast on roast goose for Christmas dinner. With so much to offer, Vienna might just win the prize for the best European city in which to spend Christmas.

Although railways are a great means of getting around Europe, there are some spots on the continent that simply need to be driven. When planning a drive, the number of options one has from which to choose is virtually limitless. Travelling by automobile has myriad advantages, such as the flexibility to drive when and where one chooses without having to worry about a scheduled itinerary. Those planning a driving holiday in Europe should find a reputable car rental office and head off to begin an enjoyable adventure on one of the following routes:

The Black Forest Highway K5370 to Oppenau–Germany

This spectacular stretch of road through Germany’s beautiful Black Forest is not heavily used by tourists, making it a safe and quiet road on which to drive. However, a drive on the K5370 to Oppenau is anything but boring. Although the route primarily runs through forestation, it is delightfully steep and features a lot of fantastic switch backs with numerous corners. One particular stretch boasts a 180 degree turn, making the driver feel as if he or she is navigating down the mountain vertically. However, the turn quickly comes back to a traditional stretch of highway through a fantastic corner by a historical wood structure. This route is a must-see for those planning to hire a car and visit Germany.

Susten Pass–Switzerland

Mountain pass style driving at its best can be found on Switzerland’s Susten Pass. The well maintained highway slowly sweeps its way up to the floor of a lovely scenic valley, then begins to gradually steepen and eventually hugs the valley’s granite walls. Its slow climb is accomplished with a series of outstanding sweepers and fabulous views of the trail ahead. Before the ride commences, the driver of the car rental must navigate a tight stretch of road, featuring some impressive switchbacks. After this, tourists will find themselves at the highest point of the drive where outstanding views of the Stein Glacier can be seen. Those who choose this route are sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Cannobio Valley–Italy

Those in search of a genuine rugged run should consider a drive through the Cannobina Valley, where some of Italy’s most beautiful and unique scenery can be viewed. The trail runs just adjacent to the national Grand Valley Park, and then moves on to a secluded and rustic road along the valley’s unspoiled river gorges. Eventually, one will come upon the quaint town of Santa Maria Maggiore. This ride is a wise choice for anyone who is interested in finding a serene atmosphere, where he or she can commune with nature.

Simme River Valley–Bernese Oberland

Another beautiful valley style driving route one may wish to consider is the Simme River Valley in Oberland’s Bernese region. The road winds down to the towns of Gstaad and Saanen, after passing through some of the area’s most tranquil and scenic villages along the way. The scenery found on this route is quite diversified, beginning with somewhat heavy forestation, and moving on through steep valleys and lush green meadows. The highway’s surface is well-maintained and one will rarely even come across a bump in the road. However, there are a few more towns and villages situated on this road than one usually finds on a scenic highway, therefore the driver may discover that he or she must frequently slow down when passing through these communities. This route is definitely the best choice best for those who want to sit back and unwind from the every day stresses of life, and enjoy a peaceful drive through tranquil surroundings.

The Alsace Wine Highway–France

The Alsace Wine Route is a popular favourite of many French travellers, and follows a path through some of the most enchanting villages and vineyards of Alsace. It is one of France’s most popular wine routes, and winds its way through a seemingly limitless number of timbered houses and exotic vineyards. As the path veers up the Alsace mountains, one will observe amazing and diversified scenery, which includes colourful flower displays. This route is an ideal way to experience the atmosphere of the region and the wines for which it is famous.

The Transfagarasan Route–Romania

Those searching for a route to take their breath away will find it in Romania. The Transfagarasan Route, famous for its intricate hairpin turns and zigzags, takes motorists through Romania’s spectacular Fagaras Mountains. At its highest point, which is in the region of Moldoveanu, the route features an altitude of over 2,000 metres, therefore it is not for the fainthearted. At the top of the peak it links to Muntenia, and the neighbouring province of Transylvania. Dramatic scenery, wicked turns, and glorious heights make a drive on the celebrated Transfagarasan highway a trip to remember.

Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos–Spain

This highway is appropriately named “Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos,” which means the Route of the White Villages. This phrase certainly describes what one will experience on this scenic drive. The highway winds through a vast array of Andalusian villages and towns, all of which boast the bright white buildings and homes for which the region is famous. These picturesque structures remain quite dazzling, as they are whitewashed on a regular basis by their owners. This task is preformed in an effort to reflect the midday sun’s unforgiving rays, and this whitewashing creates a remarkable display that is extraordinary to behold.

The route captures Andalusia’s essence very well, and in each quaint community and village one can discover historical facts and catch an intriguing glimpse into the traditional Spanish way of life. The region is associated with both a Christian and Muslim past, which becomes evident when one views the architecture of the area’s various buildings.

The drive traditionally starts at historic Arcos de la Frontera, where many ornate ancient churches can be seen. The route passes through an impressive terrain of huge mountainous rocks, from where it eventually leads down to the magnificent Guadalete River and on to additional villages that pepper the lovely hillsides. For a non-commercial driving route that is unspoiled by tourism, one should hire a car and enjoy the experience of the Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos.

These travel bags have been personally designed by Rick Steves to bring you maximum durability and practicality for the lowest price. We think you’ll agree that Rick’s bags are the best value around! There are so many styles and designs to choose from that you’ll have to know what you need. Rick has small to large bags that can handle just about any travel situation, especially if you’re traveling on the Eurail network. Rick Steves knows travel better than anyone else, it’s what he does best. Rick believes in traveling light, and traveling cheap, so these bags are made to be lightweight, inexpensive and durable.

Europe by Eurail has been the train traveler’s best resource for traveling the European Continent by Eurail for more than 30 years. This reader friendly guide, newly revised and updated, is packed with all the information you need on more than ninety rail trips starting from your choice of twenty-four base cities located in seventeen countries. With your rail pass in hand, you can explore each country’s special attractions and learn about European life and culture. Including step-by-step directions and advice on where to go and what to see and do, this book helps take the puzzle out of rail travel on the Continent.

For the newbie train traveler, this is an excellent book and resource which fits easily into a bag. The guide could have given names, prices and ratings of sleeping accommodations close to the train stations. It did not tell us what the price range for train supplements for fast trains are , nor the price range for overnight sleepers on trains ( such as from Amsterdam to Copenhagen that we will be taking.

Europe by Eurail 2010 is must have item for anyone planning a trip around Europe. When trying to book a vacation from without having to be in an organized tour, local information is essential. It appears that this book does just that. This book will help you plan a vacation around train travel and stay in hotels that are outside of the touristy areas without loosing any of the convenience.

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The continent of Europe and its feel is so very different from that of any other continent or country. Most of the continent is a fine blend between the narrow and tiled streets from the 16th, 17th and 18th century and the skyscrapers dominating the skies and showing the economic might of the continent and it’s comprising nations.

Europe Geographic Location

Europe is mainly defined by the Arctic Ocean towards North, Atlantic Ocean on the west, by Mediterranean Sea down South and the Ural Mountains, Ural River, Caspian Sea and Black Sea towards east and southeast. Although Russia is the largest country among all the European nations, its contribution towards tourism is almost negligible as compared to most of the western European Countries.

A Brief History

Before the Industrial revolution, Europe was plunged deep into the dark ages. During those times, exploitation of labor, fight for control over land and people and corruption in the churches had made life a living hell for most of the people. Although Industrial revolution struck Europe in the 16th century and changed the things upside down, it also gave wings to art and architecture. It was only during the 16th, 17th and 18th century that great artists and philosophers of the likes of Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Picasso and Galileo were born and changed the way people looked at the world around them.

Most of these men were also responsible for the creation of various breathtaking pieces of art and architecture. Most of the European churches date back to a few centuries and still boast of paintings by master artists of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Places of Interest in Europe

Europe is such a beautiful continent and has so many places that can said as a must visit. But it is almost impossible list beyond a few of them. But, you don’t need to get disheartened because we will try and pack in as much information here as we can and tell you where you can find the rest of the information that you are searching for.

Some of the major cities of Europe are Paris, Munich, Berlin, London, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Stockholm and Helsinki. These are just some of the most important cities in Europe in the context of travel and tourism and also as power centers. But, this goes without saying that there are many other places that are as beautiful as these cities.

Paris - the capital city of France, the city of love, is one of the biggest travel and tourism attractions in Europe. Paris is also called as the fashion capital of the world. There is always something happening in the city and there is something for just about everyone. When in Paris, you should not miss the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre (glass pyramid) and the Notre Dam cathedral.

Berlin - the beer capital of Europe and as well as whole Germany famous with some of the most modern fleet of trains. Apart from huge beer steins, Berlin also boasts some of the finest museums and cathedrals in the world. And of course, you must not miss the Berlin wall – an important, although sad symbol of the previous decades.

Amsterdam - the European capital of pleasures, popular with its wild and free life. The city itself is also very impressive, boasting old cathedrals, great architecture and countless tourist attractions. But Amsterdam is also equally popular with its cuisines and of course, Hash Brownie.

Travelling in Europe

Travelling in Europe is a very pleasant surprise for most of the first timers. Almost entire continent works like a single nation and leaving aside a few, most of the countries use only one currency - Euro, which means that you can save time on exchanging traveler’s checks for local currency and bringing only one currency in many of the European countries.

One of the most popular ways of travelling across Europe is by the Eurail. Eurail is one of the most economical ways of transport across the European countries. Also to be noted here is that a visa issued by any of the European Union member country holds good in all the rest of them too. So, you can use Eurail for travelling between almost any of the European countries and enjoy the breathtaking countryside views on the way.

You can also fly on many of the cheap, no frills flights or make use of the bus service called Eurolines which connects more than 500 European cities. Another popular and fun way of traveling between many cities in Europe is by ship. There are many ferries and large ships that transport people and shipments across different European cities and also offering all the luxuries romantic cruise liner.

Although, we have tried to pack in as much as we could here, we still missed out on so much of what one can see and enjoy in Europe as a tourist. But, we don’t want you to miss out on anything, and in case you are more curious about Europe, so can find more information and take a virtual trip to Europe on the site below. Still one can truly experience Europe only if visit the Old Continent himself!

Protecting both yourself and your belongings on a Eurail vacation can seem like a challenging task at first. Many travelers, carrying only what they will need for the trip, worry that because they are on a train, others have relatively easy access to the places in which their things are stored. Also, most travelers on a train are in one compartment or one train car for extended periods of time, which can result in a feeling of vulnerability. Missing a stop, or getting on the wrong train is a setback, but is usually not a major one

The most common story is lost luggage, which occurs on just about every kind of transportation. Aside from problems arising during travel, travelers on Eurail should be very careful at stops as well. Although most individuals you will encounter are friendly, there are those who want to take advantage of vacationers. Overall, there are a number of general rules that can be followed to help keep both yourself and your belongings safe while traveling Eurail.

One of the most basic measures to ensure the safety of luggage is simply to pack less. One bag to keep track of is always easier then two. Eurail generally allows for three bags to be taken on a trip. Taking time to fumble through luggage or trying to find a way to carry it all can leave a tourist vulnerable to devious individuals. The fewer bags the better.

Another precaution that can be taken is using a bicycle lock to secure luggage that is in an overhead compartment. This prevents thieves from easy access, and that fact alone will often keep them away. Cable locks probably work the best as they are the most flexible without losing resilience. Another handy tip for avoiding trouble with luggage is to avoid storing things underneath your seat. It can be very easy for somebody to use an umbrella, cane or other such device to commandeer your bag without your knowledge, take what they want, and return it to its place before you even notice. Keeping close guard over bags that must be kept under seats is strongly recommended.

Locking your luggage up is not the only important lock to keep track of. It is a good idea to keep your compartment door locked throughout the evening. Another night time tip is to keep your money on your body while you sleep, and to sleep clothed in case you need to quickly get moving. If you are traveling alone, another way to keep yourself safe is to not listen to music or movies through headphones. Wearing headphones makes you less aware of your surroundings, and sets you apart as a target for pickpockets and other sorts of thieves.

Other methods of protection rely on how you interact with other people. One of the most significant measures is avoiding conversations involving travel plans with other passengers. Con-artists and others who may take advantage of being able to follow you around will listen for people discussing their destinations and means of getting there. These individuals might watch you for a longer period of time in order to find a way to steal from you, or attempt to gain your trust over time and use that trust against you. There are many ways that people who know your plans can take advantage of you. However uncommon this scenario may seem, it is a good idea to be as careful as possible.

There are other, more tangible precautions that you can take as well. Keeping your passport and ticket information close at hand before they need to be presented is a good way to avoid fumbling around in your bags and leaving yourself open to a bad situation. If you already have this information ready, you will prevent many watchers from seeing where you are storing your money and other such documents. This gives you an advantage over a pickpocket. You can also use safety or diaper pins to pin your pockets shut to keep prying hands away. This can make things challenging for you when it comes to getting into your own pocket, but many vacationers feel it is worth the hassle.

There are many things that can go wrong in any travel situation, and many ways in which a traveler can be taken advantage of. However, there are also many ways to remain safe. It can be difficult to constantly focus on not trusting people, and keeping your belongings closely guarded. This is where human instinct comes into play. It’s important to remember that everybody is not trying to con you. As with every other transportation option, there are definitely challenges associated with Eurail travel, but these challenges are not to an extent that travel should be avoided. Instead these concerns indicate that passengers need to be careful when they are enjoying their vacation.

One of the most confusing things about any trip is navigating through the reservations and the specifics of the travel package. With so many options available, it can be easy to overlook certain options that could be perfectly suited for your vacation. Eurail offers many types of passes, and they all have specific purposes. It is often helpful to have all of the necessary information in front of you when making decisions for your vacation. Eurail has many options and passes all with separate advantages. The following is a list of Eurail passes that includes a summary of what they actually do and do not allow, as well as some additional general information.

Travel Day

A travel day is a 24 hour period from midnight to midnight in which one can travel on as many trains, even internationally, and have it only count as one day. Another beneficial factor comes with the 7PM rule. This rule states that, if you board a direct, overnight train after 7PM one evening, then only the following day will count as part of your travel day. The five hours from 7-12 are essentially free.

Flexi-Pass

Certain passes allow for a variation of the usual system termed “flexi-pass.” The Global Pass is the easiest explanation of this. If you are travelling on a “fifteen day pass”, you can travel as much as you want in fifteen consecutive days. If you have a “fifteen days in two months pass”, it means that you can spread those days out however you wish as you travel. This version is the flexi pass.

Saver Pass

This pass allows a group of 2-5 passengers to travel together at all times on a single pass that is 15% less expensive than a normal pass. This pass is a terrific option for families or friends traveling together. Not all members on the pass must be present at all times, but since there is only one ticket, it can only be used by one sub-group at a time.

Youth Pass

The youth pass offers a 35% discount for passengers under the age of 25. Youth can stay in first class cabins, but they must pay for an adult pass.

One Country Pass

The One Country Pass allows for travel in one of seventeen European countries offered by Eurail. They are excellent for a short survey of one country, and Italy has historically been the most popular location for a one country visit. Each nation’s pass is good for a number of days. Most time increments are anywhere from 3-8 days, with some that go up to 10. All time increments must be within a month of time. Some of these One Country Passes allow for special discounts in hotels and other location specific amenities. One popular example is Greece.

Regional Pass

This pass mimics the one country pass in being best suited for shorter periods of travel. Eurail offers 25 combinations of countries that can be visited in 3-10 day increments. These passes can be stretched over a two month period. Similar to the One Country Pass, special country specific offers are often available.

Select Pass

This pass allows for true flexibility of options. You get to choose between three, four or five bordering countries to visit. These visits can fit into 5, 6, 8 or 10 travel days over two months, and can, for five country trips, be stretched to fifteen days.

Beyond the basic rules, there are many extra benefits that go along with the Select Pass. Among these benefits are the relatively common frills of discounted train, ferry or bus fares when using associated companies. Another perk comes in the form of potential hotel discounts. These benefits are not available at all times in all countries, and are limited by conditions of use that should be checked prior to making reservations.

Global Pass

The Global Pass option is by far the most extensive package available. It opens up the bearer to almost unlimited travel in twenty nations. There are many options in terms of duration in this plan that range from 15 days, to 3 months, to 10 days in two months, or 15 days in two months. This variety of dates combines with the number of nations available to be visited make the Global Pass the grandest of Eurail’s options. Although the Global Pass has the largest scope in terms of nations and time, between this option and other passes available Eurail has something for every vacationer.

Proper preparation is the most important aspect of time management on any trip. On Eurail you are likely to travel between several countries over the course of a few days. This prospect can be rather daunting, but proper preparation can allow you to maximize your time. Considering all of the possible countries, cultures and languages you may encounter it is a good idea to make sure you fully understand where you are going and when you are supposed to arrive and depart. Learn the specifics of the type of pass you have purchased, and what exactly the pass allows and does not.

Additionally, there may be special offers for a particular country you are going to visit. Due to this, it is a good idea to do a bit of research just prior to leaving so that you do not have to waste time on your trip finding information on special deals and packages. Other basic planning that can be helpful is an event calendar. At the risk of not being spontaneous or overly prepared, an event calendar can provide an overview of the major events that will take place in Europe over the course of the year, and specifically when you are visiting. This resource will allow you to better plan your journey before you have even begun, and to better manage your time overall.

As far as accommodations go, there are many resources online that can provide detailed information about the best places to stay on a Eurail vacation. From hostels to bed and breakfast inns to five star resorts, these resources provide you with information about countless lodging options. Also, this careful planning can afford you time on the train to enjoy the passing landscape instead of looking into places to stay.

Plenty of information is also available about popular activities vacationers enjoy in the various countries Eurail runs through. Before you reach your destination, it is important that you research currency conversion, maps of the area, and common phrases of the local languages. In many Eurail destinations, there are tourist offices for vacationers. Also, for those travelers who will require easily accessible internet, it is also a good idea to find internet cafes in the countries and cities that you plan on visiting.

Another aspect of planning that can be very helpful on a Eurail vacation is understanding the timetable of your train. Stops are sometimes unannounced, and when they are announced it may be in a language you don’t understand. This makes it very important that you are aware of the place and time you are scheduled to stop. One of the most fear inducing parts of train travel is the thought of missing an important stop. This can potentially sour the overall mood of your trip. Having a good idea of the schedule of your train can help relieve that stress. Another way to help relieve confusion is to view Eurail’s list of city names. Most cities will be announced and listed in their local spelling. While this factor is minor, it can alleviate some potential confusion.

Now that various logistical details have been hammered out you can be free to enjoy your on-train time. This is one of the most unique aspects of Eurail. Train is one of the only modes of travel that takes the stress of driving away from you, moves you through the landscape at a good pace and allows you the freedom to move around. Cars create the stress of navigation and maintenance, planes prevent you from enjoying the landscape intimately and buses can’t provide the same freedom for movement as you are often traveling along bumpy, winding roads.

Eurail trains are able to offer a variety of amenities that become difficult in other means of travel. Restaurant trains are among these resources. Most long distance trains feature entire cars devoted to providing quality meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Many trains, even those without restaurant cars, will feature buffet and bar cars to meet other dining needs. Vendors will also be present to periodically survey the aisles if you are in the need of a snack. At-seat meals are also served on some trains. Information as to whether or not these services are available on a specific trip can be found online or at the station. You are also welcome to bring your own food on the train. Many stations have grocery stores nearby, and some even have grocery stores on the premises.

These convenient options can allow you the freedom to sit back, relax and enjoy your ride. Whether you want to play cards, plug in your laptop, listen to music or just enjoy the scenery as you rest peacefully, Eurail offers many ways in which you can manage your time and enjoy your trip through Europe.