For those who have decided to visit Europe in June, July or August, invariably the most important question for them is: “What are the best places in Europe for summer vacations?” It’s a very good, if not challenging question. The reason of course is that there are so many extraordinary possibilities. Europe is rich with history, scenery, art, architecture, and well, just fun. Let’s take a quick tour of a few places that are sure to captivate the new visitor to Europe.

Before discussing any stopping off point, one of the biggest mistakes that you can make when planning a trip to Europe is trying to take in too many countries. This strategy has the potential of causing you to suffer from overload. Instead of fully appreciating the moment, in let’s say Holland, you just might find yourself fretting about the travel arrangements, as well as other things, you need to tend to for tomorrow’s destination. A good rule of thumb is to remind yourself that this will not be your one and only visit to Europe.

With the above caveat out of the way, let’s take a look at Rome. For anyone who has studied the Roman Empire or has even heard of it will not be disappointed in what Rome offers. While there, be sure to see the Catacombs, the Parthenon, and, of course, the Coliseum. You will feel as though you have been transported back in time. Don’t forget to find a trattoria afterwards for an antipasto and pasta dish.

London is a city of many virtues. It offers a multitude of activities and places to visit. For theatre lovers, be sure to frequent the West End of town to take in the latest productions. The changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace is a testament to long held military and royal English tradition. Military buffs will want to be sure to visit the Imperial War Museum.

Salzburg Austria is the home of Mozart. It is also home to some of the most spectacular Alpen scenery you will ever experience. The Old Town section of the city has been designated as a World Heritage Site since 1996, further testament to the city’s beauty. After seeing Mozart’s birthplace and the Salzburg Cathedral, be sure to try the Wiener Schnitzel vom Schwein or Wiener Schnitzel.

The “City of Lights” draws millions of people every year, especially for the more romantically inclined. Paris, with its outdoor cafes and eminently charming Champs-Elysees, seems to bring out the warmth in everyone. Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe are not to be missed.

The Franz Josef Strauss airport serves the capital city of Bayern (Bavaria.) Munich is a city whose motto is “Munich Loves You.” You can imagine then just how this city treats its visitors. It is place for everyone and home of the world famous Oktoberfest. Students and young travelers will feel right at home visiting one of several night spots, or mingling with students attending its many universities. Everyone will want to be sure to see the Deutsches Museum, among the world’s oldest science museums.

This has hardly been an exhaustive list of places to see in Europe. But that’s what makes this continent one of the most sought after vacation destinations. There are countless possibilities for nearly everyone.