Europe, the second-smallest continent, can be covered within one month, even if you spend two to three nights in each destination. And yet, history and culture vary so much between each country that you’ll experience completely different lifestyles every few hundred kilometres. There’s so much to explore and experience in Europe with just 44 countries between them, the continent boasts over 400 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Read on to learn more about some interesting facts about Europe.

Europe is Vast and Varied

Europe has a diverse culture, holding different traditions, religions, and food influences. The continent has much to offer beyond the usual tourist attractions like France, England, and Switzerland. For instance, Bulgaria, one of Europe’s oldest countries, has a beautiful coastline better than the French Riviera. If you’re looking for a ski vacation, consider Bansko and Borovets, as they’re less crowded and far more affordable than Gstaad and Moritz. Similarly, some of the world’s best art nouveau architecture can be found in Riga, Latvia. And if you’re looking to experience the old-world charm of Eastern Europe, you must visit the small cities of the Czech Republic. Hungary is an equally dream destination famed for its hot springs, cave baths, churches, and thermal spas. Croatia, Romania, Montenegro, and Malta are equally picturesque and affordable. At GT Holidays, we specialise in affordable Europe travel packages that cover all European regions, including Central and Eastern Europe.

Europe Has Plenty of Walkable Cities

Europe is blessed with walkable cities with long, wide roads and very little traffic, especially in smaller towns. For instance, Florence, one of Europe’s most walkable cities, has much to offer at the street level. You can start at the Duomo in the morning and cover major attractions like Piazza Signora, Orsanmichele, Palazzo Vecchio, Loggia dei Lanzi, and Via Tornabuoni before evening. Similarly, all the architectural marvels in Riga, Latvia, can be covered within 1.5 miles. You need only 40 minutes to cover all major attractions in Hamburg, Germany. All of Stockholm’s major attractions, like the Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, and Skansen Museum, can be covered in just 46 minutes.

Europe Has The World’s Most UNESCO Heritage Sites

Despite being the second-smallest continent, Europe is home to over 400 world heritage sites. Italy alone has 58 world heritage sites, ranging from the Amalfi Coast and the Sacred Mountains of the Varallo to Verona and the Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardi. Germany isn’t far behind with 51 world heritage sites like the Cologne Cathedral and the Wadden Sea, the world’s most extensive mud flats and intertidal sand system.

European Countries are Among the World’s Most Visited Countries

When it comes to listing countries favoured by most tourists, Europe tops the list. France alone welcomes over 50 million tourists every year. And it’s not just the Louvre and Eiffel Tower that they visit; tourists are equally attracted to the noble castles, cathedrals, and quaint café terraces serving fresh bread and coffee. Spain is equally famous, with tourists looping from Barcelona to Madrid before taking off for the magnificent Granada and historic Seville. And if you’re looking to experience the magic of the Ottoman Empire, you must visit Turkey. Italy is the 5th most visited country in the world, famous for its Roman ruins, Byzantine architecture, Renaissance art, churches, and delightful country life.

Almost All of the European Royals are Related

The family trees of most royal families may seem complicated, but they all share a common ancestor. Almost every royal in Europe is related to King George II, the King of Great Britain and Ireland, who ruled from 1727 to 1760. Queen Victoria was once the ‘grandma of Europe’, thanks to her descendants who occupied the thrones in Prussia, Romania, Russia, Spain, Denmark, Greece, and Norway. In that sense, King Charles III, the current King of England, and King Felipe VI of Spain are distant cousins. The late Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark are second cousins.

These are just some of the many interesting facts about Europe that you may not have known until now. Are you looking to explore Europe in depth? Visit or Call us for information about Europe travel packages; we’ll gladly assist!