Europe’s major cities are known for showcasing a rich and engaging culture, but there are many more hidden gems across the continent. Encourage clients to venture to smaller, lesser-known destinations where they can discover unexpected and extraordinary experiences celebrating Europe’s innovative spirit.
Travel advisors are in the distinct position to develop itineraries that recognize Europe’s creative thrill, whether the client desires a focus on art adventures, music journeys, gastronomy trips, emerging neighborhoods, or a mix of these types of experiences in multiple countries, which can be enjoyed year-round.
The Eurail is a sustainable, well-connected system that allows travelers to seamlessly explore creative spots around the continent – a great way to celebrate 2021 as the European Year of the Rail. Here is a selection of travel ideas to consider for clients. Learn more how Europe is ideal for the #CreativelyCurious.
Dynamic Enclaves Brimming With Creative Appeal
Wandering lesser-known European neighborhoods offers a revealing window into the intriguing soul of these hidden spots. Visitors can spend their days strolling cobblestone streets, perusing small galleries and antique shops, dining on authentic cuisine, admiring magnificent scenery, and connecting with locals ready to share their stories.
Many of Europe’s off-the-radar districts can be linked together for a multi-country, creative-driven journey. The Skardalija Bohemian quarter in the Dorcol neighborhood of Belgrade, Serbia, is where famous writers, artists, musicians and actors have spent time occupying taverns and seeking inspiration. Murals depicting Skardalija’s history adorn buildings’ exteriors. Warsaw’s Praga district delights with the Soho Factory & Neon Museum and the Praga Koneser Center in the old Warsaw Vodka Factory, where local food trucks also congregate. A European Capital of Culture in 2019, Plovdiv in Bulgaria features the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis, the Kapana art district, and one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, dotted with interesting shops and street music. Artistic-minded individuals are at the heart of Design District Helsinki, a cluster of 25 streets celebrating Finnish fashion, beauty, design/interiors, jewelry, accessories, art and antiques.
Culinary Wizardry Feeds The Spirit
Exploring Europe’s diverse gastronomy is a celebration of both age-old traditions and modern vision, incorporating locally sourced ingredients and culinary ingenuity. Whether it’s through sampling the latest and greatest culinary creations, exploring food halls, discovering indigenous ingredients, or taking courses to learn local food preparation, European flavors exhibit exceptional creativity.
Scandinavia’s vibrant food scene bustles with gastronomic inventiveness. The “New Nordic” cuisine movement showcases re-imagined traditional Nordic dishes emphasizing what’s fresh and from the earth, shaped around local produce, seasonal flavors, and an ethical approach to food sources. A new generation of chefs are driving the use of molecular gastronomy and a refreshing take on classical cookery, adding new dimensions to already-diverse Nordic fare.
No food-focused trip to Europe would be complete without feasting across the borders, from savoring tapas-like pintxos in San Sebastian, Spain, and sautéed reindeer in Helsinki, to sampling moules frites (fresh mussels sautéed in white wine) in Belgium and indulging on flaky Danish pastries and a thriving microbrewery scene in Copenhagen, also home to Michelin-starred Noma, considered one of the world’s best restaurants.
Art Museums Celebrate Storytelling
European museums are excellent storytellers. They are showplaces for centuries-old treasures to more modern pieces, and while artistic styles may change over time, the creativity continues to thrive. Meandering through different exhibition halls, whether at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, or the MNAC (Muzeul National de Art Contemporana) in Bucharest, Romania, offer an immersive experience connecting visitors with established and emerging talent and the opportunity to learn about their inspiration.
Creative expression can also be appreciated through fun interactive exhibitions. At the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum in Aarhus, Denmark (a European Capital of Culture in 2017), visitors can discover the rooftop “Your Rainbow Panorama” sculpture featuring a circular colored-glass walkway affording panoramic city views.
Non-traditional yet equally extraordinary museum experiences also abound in Europe. Cinephiles can check out historical film sets and props displayed at Cinecitta Studios in Rome, Italy, home to Ben-Hur, Gangs of New York, and other classic and modern movies. A nod to broken hearts, the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia, houses sentimental personal objects people have donated from their failed romances.
The Passion Of Music
Another draw for the creative set is Europe’s flourishing music scene featuring a diverse range of styles encompassing classical, pop, and a more independent vibe, among others.
Whether clients unlock their inner “Dancing Queen” at the ABBA Museum in Stockholm, catch a show at the Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall in Iceland’s capital, or watch a moving opera performance at the Manoel Theatre in Malta, there is something for all music aficionados. Travelers can also take the opportunity to learn how to play musical instruments, including the bodhran (a traditional Irish drum) or flamenco guitar in Seville, Spain. Not to be missed are Europe’s choice of music festivals around the continent, some helmed by big names while others showcase emerging talent and innovative sounds.
For more information on safely traveling to Europe during the pandemic, visit the Re-open EU website.