European Travel Magazine

10/06/2024

Explore Toledo through the eyes of Saul Schwartz, an American traveller discovering the top attractions around Spain's capital.

Wondering what are the must-visit sites near Madrid?

In this article, Saul finds out if Toledo is worth dedicating an entire day of your travel itinerary and recommends taking a free walking tour to uncover the hidden gems of this World Heritage Site.

Explore Toledo through the eyes of Saul Schwartz, an American traveller discovering the top attractions around Spain’s capital. Wondering what are the must-visit sites around Madrid? In this …

25/04/2024

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Spain has to offer in October.

What is most important to visit in Madrid? From free walking tours to discovering the most famous museums, Saul suggests an exhaustive itinerary of Madrid.'s best attractions.

Whether you want to dig deeper into the historic heart of Madrid, or are game for exploring the fascinating area around it, here are some great tips on what not to miss:

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Spain has to offer in October. What is most important to visit in Madrid? From free walking tours to discover…

22/04/2024

What city is best to visit when it comes to museums? In our humble opinion, it’s Madrid.

The city is absolutely abundant with art museums, science museums and historical museums. Which museums are the best and which are free? In Madrid, they’re both!

We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best museums in the capital of Spain, that offer free entrance in certain timeslots.

Because we both know you’d rather spend the money on a sumptuous dinner, right?

What city is best to visit when it comes to museums? In our humble opinion, it’s Madrid. The city is absolutely abundant with art museums, science museums and historical museums. Which museum…

07/01/2024

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Portugal has to offer on a gastronomic level.

What are the options for vegans and vegetarians in a land that prides itself for its bacalhau, fish, meat and poultry dishes?

As Saul embarks on a gastronomical journey through this city that is shaped by its bonds to Brasil, he shares his tips and suggestions for vegans, vegetarians and healthful foodies visiting Lisboa:

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Portugal has to offer on a gastronomic level. What are the options for vegans and vegetarians in a land that …

24/12/2023

A Very Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!!

We want to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas.

All over Europe every child at heart is looking forward to celebrate Christmas - all in their own different way, depending on religion and local tradition.

In Denmark, where we celebrate Christmas this year, we celebrate Christmas on the 24th. On this sacred evening we feast on a sumptuous dinner and compete over who finds the one (!) whole (!) almond in the Ris A La Mande. To digest all that wonderful food, we then hold hands, walking around the Christmas tree while singing Christmas carols. And while those that perhaps had one too many plates of Ris A La Mande, relax after the meal, the kids takes turn finding and distributing the presents under the tree.

And so every country in Europe has their own tradition.

In a world where differences fade out - for good and bad - we keep the traditions alive for the holidays. Probably because holiday traditions are about coming together as a family over a good meal. And that never goes out of style.

We wish you a blessed 2024 and may all your travel dreams come true!

With love
Michael & Maj-Britt Permien
European Travel Magazine

18/12/2023

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Portugal has to offer.

What is most important to visit in and around Lisboa? Is Sintra National Park really worth carving a whole day out of your busy travel schedule to see?

Saul suggests a free walking tour and further exploration of this unique World Heritage Site.

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Portugal has to offer. What is most important to visit in and around Lisbon? Is Sintra National Park really w…

07/12/2023

🎄🏰 Discover the distinct allure of Wernigerode Christmas market on the edge of the breathtaking Harz: Mountains in Germany!

Unlike the bustling city markets, Wernigerode's charm lies in its intimate setting, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
📸 Picture this: a quaint market nestled against the Harz's scenic backdrop, creating a cozy, intimate vibe.

🏆 What sets it apart? The fusion of local artisans, showcasing their crafts amidst the natural beauty, and the chance to savor regional delicacies in a more relaxed, picturesque atmosphere.

Experience a Weihnachtsmarkt that's both uniquely traditional and beautifully idyllic! ✨

06/12/2023

Germany boasts a rich tradition of Christmas markets, and Wolfenbüttel proudly stands as one of the oldest!

Dating back to the 16th century, it's believed to be among Germany's earliest festive markets, steeped in history and brimming with timeless charm.

Set against the backdrop of Wolfenbüttel Castle, this market exudes the spirit of Christmas season.
And when you're done with tasty Apfelpunsch, you can admire the many half-timbered houses in the historic centre of Wolfenbüttel. 🏰🎄

05/12/2023

🎄✨ Experience the enchantment of Christmas at the Weihnachtswald in Goslar, Germany!

Immerse yourself in a magical forest filled with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and the aroma of glühwein.

It's the perfect place to embrace the holiday spirit and get lost in the fairytale forest. Don't miss out on this charming winter wonderland!

🌟🎅

04/12/2023

The Christmas Market in Hannover, Germany, holds centuries of tradition, originating in the early 15th century. 🏰🎄

Initially established as a market for local craftsmen to sell their wares, it has evolved into a cherished seasonal event. ✨

It's impossible not to indulge your senses at the Hannover Christmas Market with its array of delectable treats! From sizzling bratwursts and savory potato pancakes to the sweet aroma of mutzen, the market is a gastronomic delight.

Warm up with a cup of traditional mulled wine or today's favourite: a steaming mug of Feuerzangenbowle. 🍷☕️

A culinary journey at the Hannover Christmas Market promises to be as enchanting as the festive decorations that surround you. 🍴🎄

30/11/2023

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Portugal has to offer.

What is most important to visit in Lisbon ?
From free walking tours to explorational daytrips, Saul suggests an exhaustive itinerary of Lisboa's best attractions.

Whether you want to dig deeper into the historic heart of Lisboa, or are game for exploring the fascinating area around it, here are some great tips on what not to miss – and where you can economise.

Follow in the footsteps of America-based Saul Schwartz as he learns what the capital of Portugal has to offer. What is most important to visit in Lisbon? From free walking tours to explorational da…

14/11/2023

As a travel designer who has explored every corner of Italy, Linda from Italian Itinerary can confidently say that Calabria is a hidden gem that everyone should experience.

This region is known for its crystal-clear sea waters and is dotted with ancient villages, castles, and archaeological parks.

Linda shares the best places to visit and shows why she really fell in love with Calabria:

As a travel designer who has explored every corner of Italy, Linda from Italian Itinerary can confidently say that Calabria is a hidden gem that everyone should experience. This region is known for…

09/11/2023

Avant-garde Art in Aabenraa 🎨✨

🏰🖼 The 125th Anniversary Exhibition of Franciska Clausen at Brundlund Slot is a milestone retrospective of a local artist that was way ahead of her time. It invites the audience to witness the evolution of Clausen's oeuvre, showcasing her innovative approach to form and abstraction.

🔍 Born and bred in Aabenraa, Sønderjylland, in the early 20th century, Franciska Clausen was a Danish avant-garde artist known for her significant contributions to abstract art. She was associated with the Bauhaus movement and was influenced by Cubism and Futurism.

🖌 The avant-garde movement challenged traditional artistic norms, and Clausen's willingness to embrace this radical shift speaks to her courage as an artist. It's this kind of fearlessness and innovation that paves the way for new artistic movements. While Franciska Clausen was not afraid to venture on this new path, she treaded the trail alone as she returned to Denmark, as abstract art faced resistance and scepticism from more traditional art circles in Denmark.dk during the early 20th century.

📚 Sometimes it requires distance in time and space to appreciate those artists that were ahead of their time, which is why Franciska Clausen later in life deservedly received recognition for her visionary artistic contributions.

🏰🖼 The retrospective exhibition at Brundlund Slot - a carefully curated selection among the 2600 works she left behind - stands as both homage and introspection into the avant-garde legacy she etched into the canvases of art history.

📆 You can delve into the reservoir of Clausen's artistic scope at Brundlund Slot until 31/8-25: https://msj.dk/en/exhibitions/a-collage-franciska-clausen-125-years/

04/11/2023

🍁🍂 We're thoroughly enjoying the autumn colours here in Sønderjylland.

🌳 The trees have really started changing their colourscheme and it's such a beautiful time to VisitDenmark.

The only downside is, that it doesn't last very long. A few weeks with windy weather and they're all gone, so better get out there and enjoy it while you can.

📸 How does the autumn colours look right now where YOU live?? Send us a picture in the comments below ⬇️

02/11/2023

Let us take you from the far north to the very south of Denmark, to explore the powerful charisma of Sønderborg Slot 🏰

This mammoth of a castle is a historical treasure waiting to be explored. Here's why you should add it to your Danish travel itinerary:

🏛️ Rich History: This impressive castle has witnessed centuries of Danish History, from medieval times to modern Denmark. The exhibits offer an enlightening education into the past of the region, including its role in the Schleswig Wars and its impact on Danish identity.

🌅 Impressive Views: Commanding the shore of the beautiful Als fjord, the castle provides spectacular views of the surrounding seascape. Don't forget your camera!

🏰 Stunning Architecture: Marvel at the well-preserved Medieval and Renaissance architectural features that make Sønderborg Slot a true gem.

📚 Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture with the many exhibitions, events and guided tours, that shed light on the castle's past and the heritage of the region of Sønderjylland.

Whether you're a history enthusiast like me, a castle lover or just looking for a memorable experience, Sønderborg Slot has something for everyone.

So, plan your visit today and discover the charisma of this historic house of power!

https://msj.dk/en/soenderborg-castle/

31/10/2023

Learn the captivating history of Svinkløv Badehotel in the north of Denmark🏰

Did you know that this charming seaside retreat has a remarkable past? It was originally established in 1925 and miraculously rebuilt in 2017 after being consumed by a devastating fire. 🔥🧯

The restoration carefully preserved its historic character, and today, it stands as a testament to resilience and the enduring beauty of Danmark's coastal heritage.

Svinkløv Badehotel truly embodies the spirit of the past and the promise of the future. 🕰️🌊

https://www.visit-nordvestkysten.com/northwest-coast/whatson/svinklov-badehotel-gdk1098863

23/10/2023

🇩🇰 Breathtaking Beauty of Bulbjerg, Denmark 🌊

Just experienced the awe-inspiring coastal cliff of Bulbjerg in the north of Denmark! 🌅

Bulbjerg is a striking limestone cliff that rise dramatically above the North Sea. The view from both above and below is absolutely stunning, and the coastal breeze is invigorating. Almost tempestuous, if you visited it during this weekend's storm. 🗻💨

In 1839, the danish poet Steen Steensen Blicher called it "Jutland's only cliff" and only permanent "bulwark against the sea".

Have you been to Bulbjerg or have other favorite coastal spots in Denmark?
Share your coastal adventures in the comments below! 📸

21/10/2023

🏛️ Kirsten Kjærs Museum: A Window to a Danish Female Painter 🖼️

This week we had the privilege of visiting Kirsten Kjærs Museum in Denmark! 🇩🇰
This unique museum revolves around the exceptional work of Kisten Kjær (1893-1985) and was founded in 1981 by Dr. John Anderson and Dr. Harald Fuglsang under the motto "kærlighed og hårdt arbejde" ("love and hard work").

The museum is the only Danish museum dedicated solely to a female artist. Over 30 years, it has grown from a modest farmhouse into a labyrinthine structure, reflecting both Kirsten Kjær's identity quest and the founders' vision. 🏡

In addition to the permanent exhibition of Kirsten Kjær's paintings in the central hall, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions by invited artists in its side galleries. This tradition, initiated around 1983, adds a dynamic touch to the space. 🎨

Kirsten Kjærs Museum is not just about art; it's a hub for knowledge. You can attend lectures, seminars, artist talks, and witness performances and interdisciplinary projects. The museum's engagement with land art over the years is another fascinating aspect of its activities. 🎤📚

If you're seeking a unique cultural experience in north of Denmark, Kirsten Kjærs Museum should be on your list! Have you explored this intriguing museum or participated in its events?
Share your thoughts below! 📸

20/10/2023

🌊🐟 Discover Thorupstrand: Europe's Largest Coastal Landing Field 🚢

Thorupstrand, Northern Europe's largest coastal landing field with 19 active fishing vessels, has a rich history of trade between Denmark and Norway.

Today, it's a hub for sustainable fishing, where 30 fishermen use eco-friendly methods. You can experience the action up close and enjoy fresh catches at Thorupstrand Fiskehus.

In times of tempestuous weather - like the storm Denmark is facing right now - the steadfast fishing boats are brought ashore. It serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges these fishermen endure and their unwavering determination. 🌪️⛵

Explore this unique part of Denmark's maritime heritage and savor the North Sea's bounty. 🇩🇰
🌊

18/10/2023

🌿 Exploring Fosdalen and Svinkløv, Denmark 🇩🇰

Fosdalen and Svinkløv represent some of Denmark's most unique landscapes. Most people are first drawn to the coastal beauty of Svinkløv, with its crashing waves, endless skies, ever-shifting light, and the relentless winds – a captivating experience as you gaze upon the North Sea.

The best view of the North Sea is from Lien, which we explained about yesterday.

The limestone frontier of Lien is intersected by the lush Fosdalen, a sharp contrast to the open coastline with its sweeping vistas. It's quiet and almost enchantingly lush, but no less untamed. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a rainforest; plants thrive in the damp microclimate, especially a diverse population of ferns and mosses.

At the valley's bottom, a stream meanders, and the entire area is a habitat for a plethora of rare plants and insects, like the impressive Harald, a fly with an intriguing Danish name. You'll also encounter fascinating reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds.

The nightingale, typically more common in eastern Denmark, fills the night with its song in May and June. But you should come in every season and experience this untamed side of Denmark.

Fosdalen is best experienced together with Langdalen on this "Quality Trail" awarded hiking route: https://www.outdooractive.com/en/r/56907114

🌍🌳

17/10/2023

🇩🇰 Unraveling Lien's Geological History: A Journey Through Time 🌍

Lien, situated in Nordjylland in Danmark, unveils a mesmerizing geological narrative that spans millions of years. Let's embark on a journey through the geological epochs that have shaped this remarkable location. 🕰️🏞️

Approximately 65 million years ago, during the Danian period, most of this area was submerged beneath an immense sea that covered Denmark and large parts of EUROPE. This period's name, "Danien," is a nod to "Dania," meaning Denmark.

Fast forward to around 12.000-17.000 years ago, marking the end of the most recent Ice Age. During this period, the ice began to melt, causing sea levels to rise and the land to rise due to relief from glacial pressure. The receding ice sheets left a landscape with extensive undulating hills in much of Nordjylland.🏔️🌊

Between the Ice Age and the Stone Age, water levels fluctuated. The vast expanses of elevated seabed, which have since risen above sea level since the Stone Age, can be observed here, on the flat coastal side of the Lien escarpment. You can also discern the influence of the Ice Age glaciers in shaping the undulating moraine landscape that now encompasses Fosdal Plantation and Langdal Plantation. More about that tomorrow! 🏞️🌳

The demarcation between these two phenomena—the elevated seabed from the Stone Age and the Ice Age moraine landscape—is strikingly evident in the northwestern Hanherred, with Lien, Denmark's largest inland escarpment, rising more than 60 meters above the adjacent flat coastal terrain. This means that the Stone Age sea extended right up to the base of the escarpment, leaving an indelible mark on this unique geological landscape. 🌅🏔️

Lien in Denmark, offers a remarkable geological tapestry for those who seek to unravel the Earth's ancient history. Have you explored similar geological wonders, or do you have insights to share? 🌍📚

08/10/2023

Istria is Croatia's popular tourist peninsula, and every summer, holidaymakers flock to its seaside cities, where crystal clear water, Adriatic ambiance and sunny weather makes a compelling cocktail.

But Istria has more to offer its visitors than a delightful seascape. In the north and centre of the peninsula, small medieval towns crown the many hills and reveal a landscape resembling Tuscany or Umbria.

Let us take you to Buzet, that will surprise you with its richness of architecture and spectacular views.

Istria is Croatia’s popular tourist peninsula, and every summer, holidaymakers flock to its seaside cities, where crystal clear water, Adriatic ambiance and sunny weather makes a compelling c…

05/10/2023

There are certain types of towns that just FIT in their landscape, both historically, culturally and physically.

Whether it's the Pueblos Blancos of Andalucía, the Trulli of Puglia or the lime washed stone houses of Greece we instantly understand the connection to the land, the sea, the past.

The Aldeias do Xisto, the Schist Villages in Center of Portugal have that transcendent connection to their landscape and past.

Long have they been neglected and forgotten, but that is luckily beginning to change.
People are moving back to these small, stone villages to repair - and sometimes to redesign totally - these ancient houses.

Add to this a verdant, mountainous landscape, medieval castles and a fascinating history, and you've got all the right reasons to visit!

There are certain types of towns that just FIT in their landscape, both historically, culturally and physically. Whether it’s the Pueblos Blancos of Andalucia, the Trulli of Puglia or the lime wash…

03/10/2023

An Elven landscape.

The enchanting region of Saxon Switzerland - or Sächsische Schweiz in the local tongue - in the eastern corner of Germany has bewitched us with its eroded table mountains, gnarled forest paths, mysterious woods and moss-clad boulders.

From Schrammsteine to Affensteine, to a ph***ic rock, a famous bridge and a quiet forest trail, we roamed the mountainsides to give you our Top5 hiking trails – and these made the Best Hiking Trails list! Hope you’ll enjoy them just as much as we did.

For more information and maps of the trails, visit https://bit.ly/gessw

https://youtu.be/cbZO4NX4oSE

An Elven landscape. The enchanting region of Saxon Switzerland – or Sächsische Schweiz in the local tongue – in the eastern corner of Germany has bewitched u...

30/09/2023

Today, the city of Odense joined the rest of Danmark in the celebration of yet another addition to Unesco World Heritage list: the 5 danish Viking-age ring fortresses.

Odense is home to one of these ancient ring fortresses: Nonnebakken, but where the other ring fortresses remain visible in the landscape, this former Viking stronghold has been swallowed up by the urban landscape of Odense.

Nonnebakken is the only of Harald Bluetooth's ring fortresses constructed near a town. And not just any town. Odense was probably an important centre as a special place of worship - a so-called "vi" - to the pagan Viking god Odin. Odin's Vi is the origin of Odense's name.

The celebration today: Folkefest – Nonnebakken er UNESCO verdensarv, was both a jubilation of the inclusion as World Heritage and an attempt to visualise the almost disappeared ring castle.

To learn more about Nonnebakken, visit the site itself and the museum Møntergården, a short but beautiful stroll from Nonnebakken.

20/09/2023

Congratulations to Denmark on getting the 5 Viking-Age Ring Fortresses inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage!!

The large fortresses - also called Trelleborge - were built as a unified vision, with great engineering but outrageous costs for both population and rulers.

They are a great example of the centralised power of the Jelling Dynasty - particularly under Harald Bluetooth - in the late Viking Age, and played an important role in unifying the Danish realm.

Learn more about the Ring Fortresses and follow in The Footsteps of The Vikings in Denmark: http://bit.ly/vikingdk

14/09/2023

Greece is often recognised for its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and historic ruins.

As such, it’s no wonder that the country is a sought-after destination by most European holidaymakers looking for an adventure in the Mediterranean. The European Travel Commission even highlighted that Greece consistently remains a top holiday destination for tourists coming from all over EUROPE and the rest of the globe.

But with so much to see and usually too little time, a trip to Greece may be overwhelming for a first-time traveller.

Here are some tips to make it an unforgettable holiday:

Greece is often recognised for its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and historic ruins. As such, it’s no wonder that the country is a sought-after destination by most European holidaymakers …

03/08/2023

Spilling out into 4 narrow valleys, the half-timbered town of Stolberg is a picture-perfect example of a romantic village in Harz: the northernmost mountain range in Germany.

Spanning 5 centuries, around 400 half-timbered houses display the architectural styles of the past: quaint medieval houses with small windows, larger renaissance residences with colourful ornamentations and baroque buildings with cris-crossed woodwork.

The sleeping beauty of Stadt Stolberg is quite deservedly the starting point of one of the several Deutsche Fachwerkstraße routes, that takes you past some of the most beautiful half-timbered houses in Germany, and it makes for at great destination if you're looking to discover the southern part of Harz.

23/07/2023

Saul Schwartz took his wife Fern by the hand and crossed the great pond for the first time since the pandemic on a mission to fall in love with EUROPE again. And what better place to rekindle that romance than in Northern Italy?

Milan, Florence, Pisa and Venezia are all dreamy destinations and, if planned right, can be visited in less than 2 weeks. Saul and Fern left nothing to chance and had organized everything in advance.

What is the best way to spend 4 days in Venezia? Let them show you:

Saul Schwartz took his wife Fern by the hand and crossed the great pond for the first time since the pandemic on a mission to fall in love with Europe again. And what better place to rekindle that …