Destinations – Europe – Travel notes, food and more

Our European Odyssey: A Continent Explored, An Adventure Shared

As passionate European travellers, we’ve made it our mission to explore this incredible continent in all its diversity. We’re thrilled to say we’ve stepped foot in almost every single country, with just a few elusive destinations still on our list!

To help you navigate the sheer variety, we’ve organised our travels and blog posts into three key regions, each with its own unique flavour:

Eastern Europe: Discover the captivating history and stunning landscapes of Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland
Southern Europe: Immerse yourself in the sun-drenched charm and legendary coasts of Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, Italy, Spain
Western Europe and Scandinavia: Experience the iconic cities and breathtaking natural wonders of Belgium, France, Germany, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Great Britain

This journey covers not just EU nations, but the entire continent – from the Atlantic shores to the edge of Asia. So, let’s dive into what makes Europe so endlessly fascinating!

A Continent of Many Faces: Size, Scale & People

How many countries are in Europe? Well, that depends on who you ask! The World Factbook lists 49, while the UN recognises 44. Geopolitically, nations like Armenia and Cyprus often join the list, adding to the rich tapestry.

When it comes to sheer size, the continental giants are Russia, Ukraine, France, Spain, Sweden, and Germany. While we have visited both Russia and Ukraine, you won’t find posts about them on this blog. In terms of population, the powerhouses are Russia, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain.

But Europe’s magic often lies in its smaller gems. Beyond the famous microstates like Vatican City and Monaco, you’ll find enchanting smaller nations like Liechtenstein, Malta, Andorra, and Luxembourg. In terms of intimate escapes, the countries with the smallest populations (microstates aside) include Iceland, Montenegro, and the charming principality of Andorra.

From Peaks to Prosperity: Landscapes and Economies

Europe’s diversity isn’t just cultural – it’s also economic. If you measure prosperity by GDP per capita, the list is topped by powerhouses like Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Ireland, Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway.

For us, the true wealth of Europe lies in its breathtaking natural scenery. As avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, we are constantly drawn to its majestic mountains. Our absolute favourite so far has to be the Alps – Europe’s highest and most extensive range, which never fails to inspire awe.

We’ve also been captivated by the wild beauty of the Balkan Mountains and the forested ridges of the Carpathians. Yet, our bucket list remains long! We dream of more adventures in the rugged Pyrenees, the dramatic Scandinavian Mountains, the spine of the Apennines, and the stunning Dinaric Alps.

And let’s not forget the smaller, but no less spectacular, ranges that offer their own unique magic – the fairy-tale Black Forest in Germany, the poetic Lake District in England, the wild, untamed Scottish Highlands, and the ancient Świętokrzyskie Mountains in Poland. The only thing holding us back from exploring them all is the need for more time!

Your European Adventure Starts Here

Whether you’re dreaming of standing atop a windswept peak, wandering through a historic capital, or simply enjoying a perfect coffee in a sun-drenched village square, we hope this blog inspires your own adventures. Europe’s incredible diversity means there’s a perfect journey waiting for everyone.

All you need to do is take the first step. Dive into our travel notes, be inspired by our photos, and let us help you plan your next great escape. Happy exploring!