Europe encompasses so many countries with rich and engaging cultures and attractions that it can be hard to know where to start when planning your holiday. If you have just a short amount of time to head off to the continent for a break, perhaps explore some of these metropolitan gems:
Paris
The city of romance, Paris arguably offers more culture, art and history than one could possibly hope to see in a lifetime, let alone during a brief holiday. For a typical Parisian holiday experience, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are both must-see attractions and iconic architectural landmarks. If you’d like to experience a less typical tourist experience then perhaps consider taking in a show at the Palais Garnier opera house, which showcases music, dance and opera. Tourists can also visit the opera house during the day simply to take in its grandiose decor.
Barcelona
Barcelona may not be the biggest city in comparison to many of its European neighbors but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in panache, style and beauty. Las Ramblas, the pedestrianized boulevard which passes through the center of the city, buzzes with a vibrant atmosphere and is perfect for an afternoon stroll. The city’s architecture is often celebrated for its beauty and idiosyncrasy, especially at the Sagrada Familia. The life’s work of architect Antoni Gaudi, the church is a spectacular mix of modernism and Gothic splendor and is in fact still being built to this day.
Athens
Greece has its fair share of economical problems at the moment, but this doesn’t detract from the attractions of Athens, its capital city. History is easy to come by in Athens, particularly around the Acropolis, the ancient citadel which sits perched above the city on a rocky outcrop. At the base of the Acropolis, the area of Plaka is constantly active with the buzz of cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops.
Wherever you choose to venture on your European break, a Platinum Card from American Express, with no pre-set spending limit and no interest charges, could be ideal for your holiday spending. Alternatively, take a look at the range of other American Express credit cards online for a variety of options, each with unique benefits and rewards.
