Europe Central, Food, Island & reefs + Sunset & sunrise pictures

• World

Visitors flock to the cultural and historic heart of Scotland to enjoy the city’s atmosphere and its many landmarks, parks and gardens.

The western section of Gamla Stan is a small islet decorated with aristocratic 17th-century palaces and one of the city’s oldest churches.  

Discover themed gardens, artist pavilions, viewpoints and wildlife stations set around a natural amphitheater in the grounds of a medieval castle. 

For some of the best views over Verona, head up the hill to the castle that stands on the site where the city was founded.

For some of the best views over Verona, head up the hill to the castle that stands on the site where the city was founded.

Tear yourself away long enough from snorkeling and relaxing in the thermal spas of Ischia to explore this gem of a medieval fortress on a rocky islet in the Bay of Naples.

Admire the craftsmanship of the Tuscan artists and architects that created this richly ornamented bell tower. Climb its staircase for glorious views of Florence. 

Alongside games of football and couples in pedalos, the art galleries, buskers and 17th-century palace give El Retiro a different flavour to your average park.

The rooftop terrace has stunning vistas of central Madrid, while the interior is a hub of the arts, from music and poetry events to lectures and science exhibits.

Ponds, sculptures and slides grace the leafy park near this long and innovative two-part bridge that doesn’t quite meet in the middle. 

This borough of central Stockholm blends upscale residential living and high-end shopping with a vibrant performing arts and nightlife scene. 

Gaze at a shoreline dotted with pretty bays and coves, spot Balearic Islands and watch marvelous sunsets at this hilltop viewpoint. 

Visit the two intriguing castles that flank this historic Spanish beach and relax on its photogenic stretch of golden sand.

The golden foyer and the glitzy restaurants here compete for attention with the range of spectacular ballets, operas and recitals.

Learn about the roots of Western civilization and build a nice tan on a Mediterranean island in this ancient southeastern European nation.

Ponds, sculptures and slides grace the leafy park near this long and innovative two-part bridge that doesn’t quite meet in the middle.