Hidden Gems in Northern and Central Europe

Pilgrims, worshippers and visitors alike flock to Britain’s largest cathedral. Built in the early 1900s, this impressive structure features gorgeous large-scale works of art – both traditional and modern – and 360° views from the tower rooftop.

Maritime trade enriched and enlarged the city, but its docks were abandoned in the 1970s. After decades of restoration, this historic area along River Mersey is once again a prime destination, but now with shops, restaurants, art and local culture.

Among the most famous Liverpudlians of all time are the four men who make up The Beatles. Through exhibits, original memorabilia and a real Yellow Submarine, this award-winning museum gets up close and personal with John, Paul, Ringo and George.

Under central Liverpool are a network of tunnels and vaulted chambers, created in the early 1800s. During a free tour (donations welcome), learn about Joseph Williamson, an eccentric tobacco merchant, and the possible reasons for this labyrinth.

Low-lying Amsterdam owes much of its landmass to an ancient network of grachten, totalling more than 100 km. Explore “Venice of the North” as you glide along the inner canal ring – on the World Heritage list – and see its landmarks from the water.

The national museum holds many pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh and other Dutch masters. In addition to works from the Dutch Golden Age, such as Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, the vast collection spans from the 13th century to the present day.

This former working-class area is one of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods. Stroll its picturesque streets, many of which border narrow canals, before stopping by a bruincafé for a drink, bite to eat and a taste of authentic Amsterdammer life.

Through the words in her diary, this teenage girl brought to life the horrors of the Holocaust. In a poignant tour, visit the house on Prinsengracht – including its Secret Annex – where the Frank family hid when Nazis occupied the Netherlands.

Since the 9th century, this vast complex has been home to royalty and bishops. Today, Pražský Hrad still houses the head of state. Must-sees include the cathedral and coronation jewels, Great South Tower (with 360° views) and mythical Golden Lane.

For centuries, this stone bridge was the sole conduit between Little Town and Prague Castle, on Vltava River’s left bank, and Old Town. Admire its majestic towers and statues by day. At night, the viaduct is aglow with the gas lamps’ golden light.

Bustling market squares. A warren of cobbled streets. Exquisite medieval architecture, including the Astronomical Clock that draws crowds with its hourly mechanical show. Strolling through Old Town is a walk through history... or a fairytale setting.

Named after Josef II, the Roman emperor who gave Jews more rights, Josefov was Europe’s largest Jewish ghetto. No visit to Prague would be complete without seeing the Spanish Synagogue, Old Jewish Cemetery and monument to native son Franz Kafka.

The Sudetes Mountains lie along the Czech-Polish border, and some of the highest peaks are in this park – a paradise for hikers and other lovers of the outdoors. Begin your exploration at the nature centre, housed in an 18th-century palace complex.

Colourful buildings, cafes and shops line the Rynek, a vast square in the city centre. On one edge is the Old Town Hall, an impressive building from the 13th century. Today it houses a museum and Swidnicka Cellar, a restaurant that opened in 1273.

The oldest part of the city was once the site of a castle. Today, Wrocław Cathedral and its twin towers dominate this former island. Just across the Oder river is a museum dedicated to displaying a massive painting of Poland defeating Russian troops.

The entirety of Old Krakow is a UNESCO heritage site. With pretty pastel facades, horse-drawn carriages, Europe’s largest medieval square, river cruises on the Vistula and a castle complex on nearby Wawel Hill, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Once the Habsburgs’ country estate, Schönbrunn is a short U-Bahn ride from the city centre. This Gesamtkunstwerk (total work of art) comprises not just the palace, but also gardens, a maze, the world’s oldest zoo and hilltop views from the Gloriette.

This architectural and cultural gem encapsulates Vienna’s starring role in the classical music scene. During a tour of this great opera house, learn about its architecture, artwork and history – including its most famous maestro: Gustav Mahler.

This museum houses important collections ranging from Antiquity to the 18th century, including numerous paintings by Pieter Bruegel the Elder. The building itself is also a masterpiece, with grand galleries, soaring cupolas and lavish ornamentation.

Whether you seek inspiration or a cosy spot for coffee and viennoiserie, get to know the city’s great cafés. They include Café Frauenhuber (the oldest in Vienna), Café Central (Freud’s favourite) and Café Sacher (birthplace of the famous torte).