Europe is rich in history and culture, with numerous sites that offer an opportunity to explore the continent’s past. For those who love history, Europe is a must-visit destination, with numerous historical tours that can be taken. These tours offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived in these places centuries ago, allowing visitors to learn about the events that shaped Europe’s history. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best historical tours in Europe, covering sites that span from the ancient world to modern times.
Rome, Italy
Rome is a city with a rich history, and there are many historical landmarks that provide tourists an insight into the city’s past. A tour of Rome can take visitors to the Colosseum, the ancient Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. One of Rome’s most iconic buildings, the Colosseum, served as the venue for several gladiatorial contests. The Colosseum offers guided tours that take visitors into the tunnels and to the top of the structure, where they may get a bird’s-eye perspective of the surrounding area. The Roman Forum was the political and social center of ancient Rome, and visitors can see the remains of the various temples, basilicas, and government buildings that once stood there. One of Rome’s most well-preserved historic buildings, the Pantheon was once a shrine to all the gods. A tour of the Pantheon will take visitors through the structure, pointing out the various architectural features that make it so unique.
Athens, Greece
Athens is one of the most important cities in ancient history and is home to some of the most significant historical places in the world. A tour of Athens can take visitors to the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora. The Acropolis is a citadel located on a hill overlooking the city and was the site of several ancient temples and buildings, including the famous Parthenon. The Parthenon, the most well-known ancient structure in the world, was originally built as a temple to the goddess Athena. A tour of the Parthenon will take visitors through the structure, pointing out the various architectural features and sculptures that make it so impressive. The Ancient Agora was the political and commercial center of ancient Athens and is home to several important buildings, including the Temple of Hephaestus, the best-preserved ancient Greek temple.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a city that has seen many historical events in modern times, including World War II and the Cold War. A tour of Berlin can take visitors to several historical sites, including the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Brandenburg Gate. The Berlin Wall was a physical and ideological divide between East and West Berlin during the Cold War, and visitors can still see remnants of the wall today. The most well-known point of entry into West Berlin from East Berlin, Checkpoint Charlie, is now a museum devoted to the history of the wall. The Brandenburg Gate, one of Berlin’s most recognizable buildings, was initially constructed as a sign of peace.
Paris, France
Paris is a city known for its art, fashion, and food, but it also has a rich history that can be explored through several historical tours. A tour of Paris can take visitors to the Palace of Versailles, the Catacombs, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. During the 18th century, the Palace of Versailles served as the home of the French monarchy. Now, it is a museum that displays the luxury and extravagance of the French court. The Catacombs are an underground network of tunnels that house the remains of more than six million people and offer a unique glimpse into Paris’s past. The Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous churches in the world and has been the site of several historical events, including Napoleon’s coronation.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a city that is rich in history, with several historical sites that offer a glimpse into Scotland’s past. A tour of Edinburgh can take visitors to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the National Museum of Scotland. Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic structures in Scotland and has been a military fortress for centuries. A tour of the castle will take visitors through the various buildings and structures that make up the castle, including the Crown Jewels of Scotland. The Royal Mile is a historic street that is home to several important buildings, including St Giles’ Cathedral and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The National Museum of Scotland is a museum that showcases Scotland’s history and culture, with exhibits on everything from ancient artifacts to modern technology.
London, England
London is home to some of Europe’s most iconic historical landmarks, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. The British Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and is home to a vast collection of artifacts from all around the world. There are numerous walking tours available that can take you through the city’s many historic neighborhoods, including the East End and the City of London.
Krakow, Poland
Krakow is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Europe, with a rich history that dates back over 1,000 years. The Wawel Royal Castle, the Cloth Hall, and the Jewish Quarter are just a few of the many historical landmarks that you can visit in Krakow. You can also walk around the city’s historic neighborhoods, including Kazimierz and the Old Town.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a city renowned for its extensive cultural legacy and has a more than 2,000-year history. The Hofburg Palace, the Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral are just a few of the many historical landmarks that you can visit in Vienna. You can also take a walking tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods, including the Innere Stadt and the Leopoldstadt.
Conclusion
Europe is a continent that is rich in history, with numerous historical sites that offer a glimpse into the past. A tour of Europe’s historical sites can take visitors from ancient Rome and Athens to modern Berlin and Paris, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the occasions and figures that molded Europe’s history.
These tours can be a great way to learn about a country’s culture and traditions and offer a chance to explore some of the world’s most iconic structures and sites. These historical tours are a must-go for everyone visiting the continent, regardless of whether you’re a history enthusiast or just interested in learning more about Europe’s past.
