Spain’s a great pick if you want to mix history with warm weather and great food. Barcelona has beaches and extraordinary architecture, Madrid has the energy and the museums, and cities in the southern Spain like Seville or Granada have a slower, more traditional vibe. It’s easy to get around and enjoy.

France is perfect for first-timers who want a bit of everything: Paris for the sights like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, Sacre Coeur and of course the Eiffel Tower. Provence for the relaxed countryside, and the Loire Valley or Alsace for castles and wine. The cities are beautiful and there are so many regions to explore you’ll need several trips.

England is a solid start to a first trip to Europe. London is packed with famous sights, and going on day trips from to places like Oxford, Bath, the Cotswolds or Cambridge is easy. You won’t need to worry about a language barrier, the trains make exploring easy, and you’ll find a blend of world dishes in the many food markets, restaurants and pubs.

Italy is a favourite for many first time visitors to Europe for good reason. The history, the elegance, and so many choices between Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan or Naples to take it all in an taste incredible food.

Germany is clean, efficient, and easy to get around. Berlin has layers of history and a creative edge, Munich has that classic Bavarian feel with beer gardens, alpine views and the old-world charm. You can cruise along the Rhine past castles, discover small towns like Heidelberg or Bamberg, or you can take the train down to the Black Forest.

Belgium is great if you like walkable cities, beautiful old towns, and good food without the crowds. Brussels makes a good base base for day trips, Bruges and Ghent feel like something out of a storybook. It’s small and easy to navigate.