If someone wanted to promote Europe as a holiday destination, they could do based it on scenic views alone. Here are my top places to see in Europe - all boasting incredible views...
Travel through it...
Take the Orient Express from London to Venice. Forget books, Sudoku or the popular iPad and entertain yourself with the spectacular scenery from your compartment window. The beauty of the adventure is what you see along the way. Travel in style with this vintage option, as you get your own private cabin, with gleaming brass luggage racks and ornate wood panelling. Dress for your meal in the dining carriage and sample the fine cocktails and exquisite food the chefs have to offer! If that wasn't inspiration enough, then the change of landscapes should be: It starts with 'the garden of England', as you pass through Kent, followed by a meandering journey down to Folkestone where you can take in England's South coast. Awake on your second morning to the Swiss Alps and watch the mountain range unfold as you continue your journey. To top it all off you also pass through vineyards and quaint little villages, before approaching the floating city that is Venice, which simply speaks for itself.
Want gothic? They've got it!
The Galata Tower in Istanbul was converted by the ottomans into a prison for captives taken in battle. Not only is the building stunning to look at, but the tower is also a place to enjoy the fabulous 360-degree views of Istanbul. The tower was built in 1348 and nowadays the leg-irons are gone but its Turkish management still inflicts punishment on foreigners as a form of theatrical entertainment. Albeit this is not for everyone, it is still a great spot to take a peak of some of the city's best views, from peeping through wonderfully archaic windows. Royal Vision A quintessentially British view which is not only inspiring to look at but also to look through, is The Diamond Jubilee window in Westminster Hall, London. Many tourists, both national and international, visit the city of London each year, and Westminster is one of the main attractions. The window - a gift from the House of Lords and the House of Commons - was made to celebrate 60 years of Her Majesty's reign and was created with 1,500 pieces of British glass, artfully designed by John Reyntiens. Its design is that of 17th Century heraldic art and the country's long-standing tradition of stained glass.
Get high!
It is no secret that a great view comes from a higher platform. Teleferico cable car in Madrid is a great way to see the Spanish capital from a bird's eye view. The eager photographer in you will revel with this option as you can snap from several different angles. The cabins reach a maximum height of 40 metres above ground, providing a great height to see many of the city's famous sights such as the Parque del Oeste Park with La Rosaleda (which is a large rose garden, where annually in May a rose festival is held), the Torrespaña communication tower, the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral and the San Francisco el Grande Basilica. You are carried above the city's parks with the Manzanares River in the distance, with a recorded commentary describing the view in front of you. So forget bus tours or private helicopters - take in Madrid's views at a relaxed pace from a cable car window.
See it all
For more information on bespoke travel around Europe, contact Original Travel.
