For a peaceful and local-feeling respite from the intensity of the big city, try one of my favorite restaurants in Rome: Ristorante il Gabriello. Claudio serves with charisma, while his brother Gabriello cooks Roman cuisine with a creative twist — using fresh, organic products from the market and his wife's farm. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.rick...
Jul 10, 2013•2 min
One of Europe's great thrills is seeing Michelangelo's David in the flesh at the Accademia Gallery. Seventeen feet high, gleaming white, and exalted by a halo-like dome over his head, David rarely disappoints, even for those with high expectations. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.
Jul 03, 2013•3 min
The historic core of London is a compact district known as "The City." This is Britain's Wall Street, thriving with big time commerce and packed with banks and Sir Christopher Wren's churches. His masterpiece is lofty St. Paul's Cathedral, the symbol of London’s resilience. Climb its 30-story dome for a commanding view. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit w...
Jun 26, 2013•3 min
For a sightseeing break and a fun meal in Venice, explore the back lanes and pop into a rustic bar serving cicchetti — Venetian-style tapas. There's quite a variety, so try something new — and unusual! Wash it down with a good regional wine. A cicchetti crawl is a tasty ultra-local way to eat cheaply with friends old and new. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — v...
Jun 19, 2013•2 min
For poets, William Wordsworth's Dove Cottage is the top sight of the Lake District. Wordsworth — whose appreciation of nature and a back-to-basics lifestyle put this area on the map — spent his most productive years in this well-preserved stone house. The adjacent museum displays original writings, sketches, and personal items that give another peek into the life and world of the poet. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participat...
Jun 12, 2013•2 min
Built by Louis XIV in the 1600s as a veterans' hospital, the Hôtel des Invalides complex now houses Europe's greatest military museum. Under a grand golden dome lies the tomb of Napoleon, the "Emperor of Europe". This charismatic leader took France from revolutionary chaos to military glory and then to ruins. Today his legacy includes infrastructure, education system, and legal code. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participatin...
Jun 05, 2013•3 min
Built in the 1st c AD when the Roman Empire peaked, the Colosseum represents Rome at its grandest. This colossal structure is a massive marvel of engineering. Ancient Romans, whose taste for violence exceeded even modern America's, came here to unwind. Gladiators, criminals, and wild animals fought to the death providing 50,000 roaring fans with a festival of gore. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel ...
May 29, 2013•2 min
Kings and queens have been crowned and buried since 1066 here in this most historic church in the English-speaking world. Filled with the remains of people who put the Great in Britain — saints, musicians, scientists, and soldiers — gloriously Gothic Westminster Abbey is the national church and the religious heart of the nation. English literature lovers find strolling through the memorials in Poets' Corner is a pilgrimage in itself. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — in...
May 22, 2013•2 min
Lucca is still contained within its massive Renaissance ramparts, which locals treat like a circular community park. A 2.5 mile path atop the walls is ideal for a loop on foot or by bike. Lacking "must-see sights," Lucca's appeal is its relaxed old world ambiance, elegant streets and pristine piazzas. The church of San Giovanni hosts nightly concerts featuring the music of home town opera composer Giacomo Puccini. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode desc...
May 15, 2013•4 min
Hadrian's Wall, built nearly 2000 years ago by the Romans during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, was a cleverly-designed military rampart manned by 20,000 troops. This 73-mile long undulating wall likely defined and protected the bleak northern edge of Roman Britain from pesky barbarians. Much-loved by hikers and historians, the wall is truly one of England’s most thought provoking sights. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, particip...
May 08, 2013•2 min
Surrounding Venice and cradled by the lagoon are a string of low-lying islands which make a nice escape from the hubbub — especially if you can linger after the tourists return to the city. Regular ferryboats and water taxis connect Venice with nearby lagoon communities like Murano, famous for glass, and Burano, with its lace shops and photogenic Crayola-colored houses. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, tr...
May 01, 2013•4 min
Auguste Rodin was a modern Michelangelo, sculpting human figures on an epic scale, revealing through the body their deepest emotions. The Rodin Museum presents a full range of his work in marble and bronze (including his famous "The Kiss" and "The Thinker") housed in a historic mansion where the artist once lived and worked. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — vi...
Apr 24, 2013•3 min
Paris is a leader in the fashion world, famous for its high end design. Here, window shopping (known to the French as "window licking") in the bountiful boutiques can be a cultural experience. Department stores were invented in Paris, and they are often beautiful monuments to fine living. The Galeries Lafayette, with its belle époque dome, is a classic example. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel info...
Apr 20, 2013•2 min
More than just a great museum, the Borghese Gallery is a beautiful villa set in the leafy surrounding gardens. Art commissioned by the luxury-loving Borghese family is displayed in the fancy frescoed rooms for which it was created. Masterpieces by Baroque masters Bernini and Caravaggio are among the highlights. Don't forget to get an easy-to-obtain reservation. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel info...
Apr 17, 2013•3 min
For a lively and unique way to enjoy Paris, hire a car and driver for a magical after-dark blitz of the city's best views. The French raise floodlighting to an art form and monuments like the majestic Notre Dame and the sparkling Eiffel Tower will take your breath away. Paris is magnifique! For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.
Apr 10, 2013•1 min
One of the great joys of travel is eating. Restaurants filled with locals are where you’ll find high quality and good value. Order your meal with a spirit of adventure, seeking out seasonal and regional specialties. Markets and shops offer culinary delights as well. Think of cuisine as sightseeing for your palate. Bon appetit! For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — ...
Apr 03, 2013•5 min
Today's Europe is increasingly bilingual — and lucky for us English is its second language. You can manage just fine by being polite and by speaking clearly and slowly. Starting conversations with "Do you speak English?" in the local language shows you are willing to try and is appreciated. Communicate with curiosity and an appetite for learning local lingo and gestures. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, t...
Mar 27, 2013•2 min
Renting a car and driving in Europe is a breeze — cars get great mileage, distances are usually short, and roads are in excellent condition. Driving is ideal for countryside-focused trips and gives you maximum mobility. Clear signage makes navigation easy. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.
Mar 20, 2013•4 min
Upon arrival in Europe, getting settled and oriented is a snap. Your first stop should be a tourist information booth, where you can pick up a map and ask questions. Zip into town on the efficient local public transit system to reach your hotel. Conquer jet lag by staying active in the fresh air before going to bed at an early local bedtime. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinati...
Mar 13, 2013•4 min
Packing light is essential for happy, hassle-free travel. Choose your luggage carefully — a carry-on sized convertible backpack/suitcase is the best bet for most travelers. As you pack, carefully scrutinize each item (clothing, electronics, toiletries, etc.) to see if it justifies hauling it around. The payoff is sweet mobility, freedom and a better trip. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel informatio...
Mar 06, 2013•4 min
Developing a thoughtful itinerary helps make the most of a trip. Start by brainstorming a must-see wish list in logical geographic order, then pare it down based upon time and interest. Time spent planning will pay off later and help ensure rich, rewarding and efficient trip. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.
Feb 27, 2013•4 min
Located on a beautiful lake known as Derwentwater, Keswick is the ideal home base in North Lake District. The town's fine old buildings recall those Romantic era-days when big city folks flocked here to "commune with nature." Today, compact Keswick is well-stocked with plenty of welcoming B-and-Bs, hiking-gear shops and plenty of kid- and dog-friendly pubs. A scenic boat cruise takes you to a rugged trail leading up to a scenic peak called Catbells for a stunning Lake District panorama. For more...
Feb 20, 2013•4 min
There's much more to Florence than the touristy zone north of the Arno River. To discover rustic, old Florence cross the river and dive into the colorful Oltrarno district. Wander the back lanes and you'll find artisans practicing centuries-old crafts like picture framing, violin making and more. Finish your day at a Florentine steakhouse, which as any meat lover knows means sampling the tender, local Chianina beef, which goes well with a glass of Chianti. Salute! For more information on the Ric...
Feb 13, 2013•3 min
The European train system works great for locals and travelers alike, with well-signed stations, easily accessed schedules, and efficient connections between popular destinations. First-time train travelers get the hang of it faster than they expect. Generally, European trains go where you need them to go and are fast, frequent, and affordable. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destin...
Feb 06, 2013•4 min
One of Europe's great experiences is a Venetian gondola ride. An expensive rip-off for some, this peaceful glide through the canals is a traditional must for romantics. Wait till early evening, when the crowds diminish and the light is right. Choose a gondolier whose personality you enjoy, settle on a price, hop in, sit back and enjoy the magic of Venice. A visit to a gondola workshop provides a fascinating look at the age-old craftsmanship of these sleek, graceful boats. For more information on...
Jan 30, 2013•2 min
Survey London's skyline (or a Tube map), and it becomes clear that this grand city is shifting east. The thundering heart of this new London is the Docklands. Nestled around a hairpin bend in the Thames, this area was a gritty, bustling harbor and warehouse district back in the 19th century, when Britannia ruled the waves. Neglected for decades, today it's been gentrified into a futuristic, skyscraper-filled landscape rising from the canals and docks. For more information on the Rick Steves' Eur...
Jan 23, 2013•2 min
Rick tags along with a local woman as she shops in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower on Rue Cler, picking out fresh ingredients for that night's dinner party. Paris abounds with atmospheric street markets like this, each oozing with small-town charm in the middle of the big city and providing a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Rue Cler is chock-full of shops and stalls specializing in produce, meat, bread, seafood, cheese, and bread. And of course wine — an essential part of any French me...
Jan 16, 2013•3 min
In its heyday, Rome ruled a vast empire that stretched from Scotland to Egypt. The Roman Forum was the political, religious, and commercial heart of the city. Rome's most important monuments, temples and halls of justice were built here. As Rome's empire expanded, these few acres of land near the Tiber became the navel of the civilized world. All roads did lead to Rome. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, tr...
Jan 09, 2013•3 min
The seventh season of Rick Steves' Europe — 14 new episodes — debuts this Fall on public television (check your local listings).
Jan 02, 2013•35 sec
The seventh season of Rick Steves' Europe — 14 new episodes — debuts this Fall on public television (check your local listings). This three-part special distills Rick Steves' 30 years of travel experience into 90 minutes of practical advice on how to have a fun, affordable, and culturally broadening trip to Europe. In Part II, we'll compare independent travel to group travel, and we'll cover tips on planning an itinerary, hurdling the language barrier, staying safe, and packing light. For more i...
Dec 26, 2012•35 sec
