Les Andelys, a picturesque town on the banks of the Seine in Normandy, France, is best known for its dramatic setting beneath the ruins of Château Gaillard. This medieval fortress, built in the 12th century by Richard the Lionheart, stands high on a chalk cliff overlooking the river, a reminder of the region’s turbulent past during the wars between England and France.
Rocamadour is a remarkable village set against a steep limestone cliff in the Lot department of southwestern France. Its stone buildings, narrow lanes and ancient sanctuaries rise in stages above the Alzou River valley, giving the settlement a striking silhouette that has drawn visitors for centuries. Pilgrims have come here since the Middle Ages to see the Black Madonna in the Chapelle Notre-Dame and to walk the Chemin de Croix.
Lebanon unfolds like an open-air museum, with ancient stones that tell stories from centuries past. In Baalbek, the Temple of Bacchus stands among the most impressive Roman ruins outside Italy, its columns framed by Beqaa Valley light. In Byblos, one of the oldest cities in the world, ruins sit beside a bustling harbor and modern cafés, blending past and present in a single stroll.
Tinghir is an oasis town in southeastern Morocco, set between the High Atlas and the Anti-Atlas mountains at the entrance to the Todra Valley. The town is surrounded by an extensive palm grove where date palms, gardens, and small agricultural plots follow the Todra River. Its traditional earthen buildings and kasbahs rise above the greenery, creating a clear contrast with the dry mountain slopes nearby.
Discover the charm and history of Krems, Austria, a city nestled along the picturesque Danube River and the gateway to the enchanting Wachau Valley. With origins dating back to Roman times, Krems is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders. Explore the Krems Old Town, where you’ll find well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Steiner Tor and the Gothic Church of St. Veit. The city's charming streets and historic buildings offer a glimpse into its rich past.
Krems is also renowned for its vibrant wine culture, set against the backdrop of the Wachau Valley. The valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its terraced vineyards and scenic beauty. Indulge in the local wines by visiting the Krems Wine Museum, or take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards to experience the region's renowned Grüner Veltliner, a staple of Austrian viticulture.
Art and culture thrive in Krems, with institutions such as the Kunsthalle Krems showcasing contemporary art from around the globe. The Karikaturmuseum Krems offers a unique look at caricature and satire, providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors. The city’s Kunstmeile Krems cultural mile links several key cultural venues, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Slogan: "Krems: Where History Meets the Vine."
Fun Fact: Krems is located in the Wachau Valley, a region so picturesque that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its medieval castles and stunning landscapes.
Visit Krems between May and September to enjoy the best of the city's festivals, wine harvests, and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring its historical sites and scenic surroundings.
Other Popular Destinations in Austria
Vienna
Vienna has a long memory. Once the capital of the Habsburg Empire, the city still carries signs of its imperial past in its palaces, concert halls, and wide boulevards. Visitors can walk through the Hofburg complex, where emperors once ruled, or tour the opulent rooms of Schönbrunn Palace, which features 1,441 rooms and a maze in its gardens. But Vienna’s many historic buildings now house contemporary art museums, cafés, and institutions that reflect the city’s modern identity.
Dürnstein
West of Vienna, the quaint town of Dürnstein lies on the banks of the iconic Danube and is the perfect destination for river cruising, sightseeing, and enjoying the best of Austrian culture. Though small, this picturesque village offers plenty to see and do.