Europe Destination Round-Up

A destination’s convention and visitors bureau (CVB) can be the best resource for destination information, especially if you want more in-depth info. Most countries have a CVB but you can get down to the city-level, too. We’ve rounded up the links and info for the CVBs of some key European countries.

The Tourist Offices of Spain

Spain has two cities on the list of top European summer travel destinations, showing that Spain is the place to go. Highlights of Spain include:

• Visiting Madrid – As the country’s capital, Madrid is a modern city that still has historical flair. It’s a must-see when traveling to the country.
• Visiting Barcelona – Another can’t-miss city in Spain where visitors can see Roman remains, medieval quarters and 20th century Modernism.
• Going seaside – With almost 5,000 miles of coastline touching the Bay of Biscay, the Balaeric Sea, the Alboran Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, it would be hard to try to not catch some scenic water views or beach time.
• Enjoying country life – Spain’s big cities are complemented by rural villages sprinkled throughout the inland. Each region has a different vibe, from family-focused to culinary experiences.

Looking for a tour company that specializes on Spain? Check out Sagres Vacations – their expert, English-speaking guides take travelers on personalized tour programs based on what they want to get out of the experience. They know Portugal, too, which is the perfect complement to Spain.

Tourism Ireland

Everything about visiting Ireland feels warm and welcoming. Drinking a pint in a traditional pub, cozying up in a bed and breakfast, hiking through the lush greenery of the countryside. Here are more key Irish experiences:

• Visiting Dublin – Ireland’s intimate capital city is rich in cultural heritage and offers visitors much in terms of local charm.
• Visiting Belfast – The living history of Belfast is remarkable, with Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience (the Ship of Dreams was built there). The city is also known for its culinary heritage and beautiful natural spots.
• Walking its mountains – Ireland is on the International Appalachian Trail and there are many ways to hike the mountain ranges – including by attending one of Ireland’s many walking festivals.

France

France is always buzzing with activity. Festivals, art, history, wine, fashion, food – it’s all there. And of course, beautiful natural and urban sights that no other country can top. Here’s more.

• Visiting Paris – Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world and is considered a leader in the arts, fashion, culture, media and business.
• Visiting Burgundy – Wine routes through the town of Burgundy are magnificent, but river tourism is also big here, as it’s home to the largest network of inland waterways in France.
• Pairing food and wine – The best ways to learn about wine is to meet the winemaker. Or why not take it a step further and lunch with them? It’ll take your clients longer to choose their wine experience than it will for them to dine at the winery!