Lonely Planet - Best of Europe

There simply is no way to tour Europe and not be awestruck by its scenic beauty, epic history and dazzling arts scene. It also offers delicious culinary diversity and the best nightlife in the world.

Europes wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw: Florence's Renaissance art, Venice's graceful canals, Paris' Napoleonic splendour, and the multilayered historical and cultural canvas of London. Less obvious but no less impressive attractions include the ongoing project of Gaud's La Sagrada Famlia in Barcelona or Iceland's quaint capital Reykjavk with its wonderful cafe and bar scene.

There's a huge diversity of natural scenery: rugged Scottish Highlands with glens and lochs; the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence; the Adriatic coastline speckled with thousands of islands. Mountain lovers should head to the Alps: they march across central Europe taking in France, Switzerland, Austria and northern Italy.

London, Berlin and Paris all offer top-class entertainment, especially theatre, live music and clubbing. Those hankering for something cosier can add Dublin's pubs or Vienna's cafes to their itinerary. Continue to party on the continent's streets at a multiplicity of festivals and celebrations.