Unusual Things to Do in Europe 2023/2024

What are some unusual things to do in Europe that are off the beaten path?

There are many unusual things to do in Europe that are off the beaten path, here are a few examples:
1. Visit the abandoned town of Pripyat in Ukraine, which was evacuated after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
2. Explore the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, which features a series of stunning waterfalls and turquoise lakes.
3. Visit the abandoned city of Varosha in Cyprus, which has been frozen in time since the Turkish invasion of 1974.
4. Attend the annual La Tomatina festival in Buñol, Spain, where participants throw tomatoes at each other in the streets.
5. Visit the Capuchin Crypt in Rome, Italy, which is a series of chapels decorated with the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin friars.
6. Explore the abandoned tunnels beneath the streets of Naples, Italy, which were used as bomb shelters during World War II.
7. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Cappadocia region of Turkey, which features unique rock formations and underground cities.
8. Visit the Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, which is a brightly colored castle that looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale.
9. Go on a ghost tour of Edinburgh, Scotland, which is said to be one of the most haunted cities in Europe.
10. Attend the annual White Night Festival in St. Petersburg, Russia, which features all-night cultural events and light shows.
These are just a few examples of the many unusual things to do in Europe that are off the beaten path.

Are there any abandoned places in Europe that are worth visiting?

Yes, there are several abandoned places in Europe that are worth visiting for their eerie beauty and historical significance. Here are a few examples:
1. Pripyat, Ukraine: This abandoned city was once home to the workers of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, which experienced a catastrophic meltdown in 1986. The city and its surrounding area were evacuated, and now it stands as a haunting reminder of the disaster.
2. Hashima Island, Japan (owned by Japan, located off the coast of Nagasaki): This abandoned island was once home to a thriving coal mining community. However, the decline of the coal industry led to the island's abandonment in the 1970s.
3. Beelitz-Heilstätten, Germany: This abandoned hospital complex was once used as a military hospital during World War I and later as a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients. It was also where Adolf Hitler was treated during his recovery from a leg wound sustained in World War I.
4. Salto Hotel, Colombia: This abandoned hotel was built in the 1920s and was once a popular destination for wealthy tourists. However, it was abandoned in the 1990s after a decline in tourism and is now a popular destination for urban explorers.
5. Humberstone, Chile: This abandoned mining town was once a thriving community, but the decline of the nitrate mining industry led to its abandonment in the 1960s.
These are just a few examples of the many abandoned places in Europe that are worth visiting. It's important to note that some of these places may be dangerous or illegal to visit, so it's important to do your research and take appropriate precautions if you decide to visit.

How can I find a castle to stay in during my trip to Europe?

If you're interested in staying in a castle during your trip to Europe, there are several ways to find and book castle accommodations:

1. Online booking platforms: There are many online booking platforms that specialize in castle accommodations, such as Castles & Palaces, Castle Hotels & Mansions, and Historic Hotels of Europe. These platforms allow you to search for castles by location, price range, and amenities, and provide detailed information about each property.
2. Travel agencies: There are travel agencies that specialize in castle tours and accommodations. These agencies can help you plan your trip, book your accommodations, and arrange transportation and activities.
3. Castle associations: There are several castle associations in Europe, such as the European Castle Association and the Irish Castle Hotels Association, that provide information and resources for castle enthusiasts. These associations often have directories of castle accommodations and can provide recommendations and advice for planning your trip.
4. Direct booking with the castle: Some castles offer direct booking through their own websites or reservation systems. This can be a good option if you have a specific castle in mind or if you want to work directly with the castle staff to plan your stay.

It's important to note that castle accommodations can be quite expensive, and many castles only offer a limited number of rooms for guests. It's recommended to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and get the best possible rates.

Are there any Viking festivals in Europe that I should check out?

Yes, there are several Viking festivals held throughout Europe that you may be interested in checking out. Here are a few examples:

1. Lofotr Viking Festival in Norway: Held annually in August, this festival takes place at the Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg and features reenactments, markets, music, and more.
2. Jorvik Viking Festival in England: Held annually in February, this festival takes place in the city of York and features parades, reenactments, workshops, and more.
3. Viking Festival in Denmark: Held annually in June, this festival takes place in the city of Ribe and features Viking markets, food, music, and reenactments.
4. Foteviken Viking Market in Sweden: Held annually in July, this festival takes place at the Foteviken Museum and features Viking battles, markets, workshops, and more.
5. Dublin Viking Festival in Ireland: Held annually in March, this festival takes place in Dublin and features reenactments, music, storytelling, and more.

These are just a few examples of the Viking festivals held in Europe. Be sure to check the specific dates and details for each festival as they may vary from year to year.

What are some of the best underground tours to take in Europe?

There are many underground tours to take in Europe that offer unique and fascinating experiences. Here are some of the best ones:

1. Catacombs of Paris, France: The Paris Catacombs are a network of underground tunnels and chambers that hold the remains of millions of Parisians. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the macabre history of this underground city.
2. Edinburgh Vaults, Scotland: The Edinburgh Vaults are a series of underground chambers that were once used as storage space for businesses in the 18th century. Today, visitors can take a spooky guided tour to learn about the history and legends of this mysterious underground area.
3. Berlin Underground, Germany: The Berlin Underground is a network of tunnels and bunkers that were used during World War II. Visitors can take a tour to learn about the history of the city during this time and explore the remnants of the underground infrastructure.
4. Domitian’s Palace, Rome, Italy: Domitian’s Palace is an underground palace built by the Emperor Domitian in the 1st century AD. Visitors can take a tour to see the remains of the palace and learn about the history of the Roman Empire.
5. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland: The Wieliczka Salt Mine is an underground mine that has been in operation since the 13th century. Visitors can take a tour to explore the tunnels and chambers of this unique underground world and learn about the history of salt mining.

These are just a few examples of the many underground tours available in Europe. Be sure to research the specific details and requirements for each tour before booking.

Where can I find the best street art in Europe?

Europe is home to many vibrant street art scenes, with cities like Berlin, London, Lisbon, and Paris being known for their street art culture. Here are some specific neighborhoods and areas where you can find some of the best street art in Europe:

1. Shoreditch, London, UK: This neighborhood in East London is home to a thriving street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti decorating the walls of its streets and alleys.
2. Kreuzberg, Berlin, Germany: Kreuzberg is a neighborhood in Berlin that is known for its alternative culture and street art scene. The streets and walls of the neighborhood are adorned with murals, graffiti, and other forms of street art.
3. Lavapiés, Madrid, Spain: Lavapiés is a multicultural neighborhood in Madrid that is home to a thriving street art scene. The streets and alleyways of the neighborhood are filled with colorful murals and graffiti.
4. Montmartre, Paris, France: Montmartre is a historic neighborhood in Paris that is famous for its artistic heritage. In recent years, it has also become a hub for street art, with murals and graffiti decorating the walls of its streets and buildings.
5. Bairro Alto, Lisbon, Portugal: Bairro Alto is a neighborhood in Lisbon that is known for its nightlife and street art scene. The streets of the neighborhood are filled with murals, graffiti, and other forms of street art.

These are just a few examples of the many neighborhoods and areas in Europe where you can find great street art. Be sure to research the specific details and requirements for visiting these areas before planning your trip.

What are some unusual spa experiences in Europe?

Europe is known for its spa culture and there are many unique and unusual spa experiences to be had throughout the continent. Here are a few examples:

1. Floating Spa in Budapest, Hungary: Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, but one of the most unique experiences can be found at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, where you can float in a pool filled with warm water that has been infused with Epsom salt, which makes it easier to float and relax.
2. Beer Spa in Prague, Czech Republic: The Czech Republic is known for its beer culture, and at the Beer Spa Bernard in Prague, you can relax in a spa tub filled with warm water, hops, and beer extracts. You can even sip on a cold beer while you soak.
3. Ice Sauna in Lapland, Finland: At the SnowSauna in Lapland, Finland, you can experience a traditional Finnish sauna, but with a twist. The sauna is made entirely of ice, and you can relax in the warm, steamy interior while surrounded by ice sculptures.
4. Volcanic Sand Bath in Tenerife, Spain: In the Canary Islands, you can experience a volcanic sand bath at the Elba Sunset Mallorca Thalasso Spa. You'll be buried up to your neck in warm, black sand that is said to have healing properties.
5. Salt Mine Spa in Krakow, Poland: In Wieliczka Salt Mine in Krakow, Poland, you can visit a unique underground spa located 135 meters below the surface. The spa uses salt water from the mine's natural springs, and the salt is said to have therapeutic properties.

These are just a few examples of the many unusual spa experiences available in Europe. Be sure to research the specific details and requirements for visiting these spas before planning your trip.

Are there any catacombs in Europe that are open to the public?

Yes, there are several catacombs in Europe that are open to the public. Catacombs are underground burial places that were used by various civilizations throughout history, and some of them have become popular tourist attractions. Here are a few examples:

1. Catacombs of Paris, France: The Catacombs of Paris are a network of underground tunnels and chambers that were used as a burial site for millions of people in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Today, visitors can take a tour of a small portion of the catacombs, which contains the remains of over 6 million people.
2. Catacombs of Rome, Italy: The Catacombs of Rome are a series of underground burial chambers that were used by early Christians to bury their dead. There are several catacombs in Rome that are open to the public, including the Catacombs of St. Callixtus, which is one of the most well-known.
3. Capuchin Crypt, Rome, Italy: While not a catacomb in the traditional sense, the Capuchin Crypt in Rome is an underground chamber that contains the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin friars, which have been arranged in various artistic displays.
4. Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Alexandria, Egypt: While not in Europe, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are an underground burial site in Egypt that is open to the public. The catacombs date back to the 2nd century AD and contain a mix of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.

These are just a few examples of catacombs that are open to the public in Europe and beyond. It's always a good idea to research the specific details and requirements for visiting these sites before planning your trip.

What are some unusual museums to visit in Europe?

There are many unusual museums to visit in Europe, offering a unique and often quirky perspective on history, art, and culture. Here are some examples of unusual museums you may want to consider visiting during your travels:

1. Icelandic Phallological Museum, Reykjavik, Iceland: As the name suggests, this museum features a collection of over 200 phalluses from various species of animals, including humans.
2. Museum of Broken Relationships, Zagreb, Croatia: This museum displays personal objects and artifacts donated by people from around the world, each with a story about a failed romantic relationship.
3. Currywurst Museum, Berlin, Germany: Dedicated to the popular German fast food dish, this museum explores the history and cultural significance of currywurst through interactive exhibits.
4. Torture Museum, Amsterdam, Netherlands: This museum features a collection of torture devices from throughout history, providing a gruesome insight into the darker side of human history.
5. Meguro Parasitological Museum, Tokyo, Japan: Not in Europe, but this museum is dedicated to parasites and contains over 60,000 specimens, making it the largest parasitology museum in the world.
6. Museum of Vampires and Legendary Creatures, Paris, France: This museum explores the mythology and folklore surrounding vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural creatures.
7. The Museum of Broken Relationships, Los Angeles, USA: This museum is the second branch of the original one in Zagreb, and features the same theme.

These are just a few examples of unusual museums in Europe and beyond. Each museum offers a unique and memorable experience, and they are often worth a visit if you're looking for something different to do on your travels.

How can I find unique cultural experiences in Europe that aren't just the typical tourist attractions?

If you're looking for unique cultural experiences in Europe that go beyond the typical tourist attractions, there are several ways to do so:

1. Local Events: Check out local events, festivals, and celebrations happening in the area you are visiting. These can be great opportunities to experience the local culture, music, food, and traditions.
2. Neighborhood Walks: Explore different neighborhoods on foot and discover local shops, markets, cafes, and street art. This can give you a better sense of everyday life in the city and provide insights into the local culture.
3. Cultural Workshops: Many cities offer cultural workshops and classes, such as cooking classes, language lessons, and traditional craft-making classes. These can be a great way to learn about the local culture and interact with locals.
4. Volunteer Programs: Consider participating in a volunteer program that aligns with your interests. This can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and make a positive impact in the community.
5. Alternative Tour Companies: Look for alternative tour companies that offer off-the-beaten-path tours, such as street art tours, food tours, or historical walking tours. These tours can offer unique perspectives and insights into the local culture.
6. Museums and Art Galleries: Look for smaller, lesser-known museums and galleries that feature local artists and lesser-known historical or cultural topics.
7. Nature Walks: Take a nature walk or hike in a nearby national park or nature reserve. This can provide an opportunity to experience the local flora and fauna, as well as learn about the environmental issues affecting the region.

By taking these steps, you can find unique cultural experiences in Europe that are not just typical tourist attractions. These experiences can provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions, and create lasting memories of your travels

Unusual Things to Do in Europe 2023/2024