Fall is a fabulous time for a European vacation. The hordes of summer tourists have dissipated so you can visit iconic sights without having to wait in massive queues. The weather is pleasant so you can comfortably spend all day outside. And the cost of airline tickets and hotels drop during what is known as shoulder season, which can save 20% – 30% off the high season levels. This year, three of the hottest European destinations are Italy, Ireland, and Iceland. Here’s why the “I”s have it:

Italy Tops Favorite European Destinations

Italy is a perennial favorite with travelers. It’s a country for those who love simple pleasures and high quality. Traditional open-air vegetable markets, local bakeries, and fresh cheeses are everywhere, staples for the delectable Italian cuisine. Italy takes its wine and olive oil seriously, too, producing superb products.

Two-thirds of the entire world’s artistic heritage resides in Italy, including such masterpieces as da Vinci’s Last Supper in Milan and Michelangelo’s incomparable Sistine Chapel frescos in the Vatican. The country is also chock full of fascinating historic sites such as the Colosseum in Rome, the ruins of Pompeii, and the romantic canal city of Venice. Both art and history are ingrained in the Italian culture and a huge draw to visitors.

The boot-shaped country is a peninsula surrounded by thousands of miles of gorgeous coastline. The areas of Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast are two picturesque favorites. Other scenic geography includes the rugged Alps and the Lake District in the north, fertile rolling hills of Tuscany, and the flat farmlands of Puglia.

Ireland Draws with its Charm and Beauty

The Emerald Isle’s stunning scenery is only surpassed by its personal charm. The friendly locals, cozy pubs, and traditional culture encourage visitors to enjoy the country at a relaxed pace. Accommodations are plentiful in Ireland, ranging from deluxe castles and manor houses to quaint inns, hotels, guesthouses, and bed-and-breakfasts. Solid service without a touristy feel, a laid back pace and very little crime against visitors make Ireland an easy-going vacation.

A hundred shades of green paint the lush countryside, but that beauty comes at the price of cool and damp weather, even in summer. Visitors should expect rain and mist at any time, but shouldn’t let that deter them from enjoying spectacular drives around the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula or the Wild Atlantic Way that runs the length of the rugged west coast.

The small villages that dot the countryside are delightful to explore. Golfers of any skill level will be in heaven since about 30% of the world’s courses are in Ireland. Hikers and cyclists enjoy hundreds of miles of scenic paths and roads, and anyone would be hard pressed to avoid the traditional Irish music, dancing, and congenial pub life.

Iceland is a Unique European Destination

Iceland is a land shaped by fire and ice that appeals to those who enjoy brisk weather, outdoor adventure, and rugged scenery. With over 200 volcanos and many glaciers, it has a bizarre landscape found nowhere else. Glacier-carved valleys, serrated lava fields, hot springs, geothermal pools, lunar landscapes, waterfalls and gushing geysers all make up Iceland’s sublime version of nature.

The capital, Reykjavik, offers luxury hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. The food scene is flourishing with many cafés and bistros, as well as fine dining establishments. Reykjavik’s nightlife is legendary, with pubs and clubs active until the wee hours. Outside of the capital city, options are much more limited, though.

Icelanders are crazy about swimming and Reykjavik has nearly 20 geothermal pools and spas, so be sure to pack a swimsuit. The black sand beach at Vik is routinely named one of the top 10 beaches in the world, and of course, no visitor should miss the famous Blue Lagoon. Bird watching, horse trekking, river rafting, snowmobiling, gazing at the Midnight Sun and searching for the Northern Lights will keep any outdoor enthusiast active in Iceland.

So, the “I”s have it! Italy, Ireland, and Iceland are three top European destinations that you should consider for your fall vacation. To plan your trip, contact the Europe specialists at Covington Travel today.