Throughout my life, I've visited a total of 18 European countries. That number climbed quickly when I moved from Chicago to London for college and spent four years living in my favorite city, thrilled by my newfound proximity to so many bucket-list destinations.
Henry McGowan killed his father John in Ballyfin Demesne after the 66-year-old had flown to Ireland to help him The son had travelled widely in Europe, his experiences transforming him into an "exhaustless mine" from which his father could draw inspiration. But as he aged, the son's health turned friable. Time spent in France to recuperate lent no lasting improvement and he found himself as an adult back in the care of his father, to whom he had always been close.
As a travel writer from Rome, I've come to learn that staying comfortable is key to maximizing your European travel experience. No one wants to be hobbling in pain, especially on uneven, historic cobblestone streets, trying to cram in a busy day of sightseeing. But prioritizing comfort doesn't necessarily mean you need to forfeit style; many walking shoes are supportive, stylish, and won't make you stand out as a tourist.
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions will embark on European river cruises in 2026, offering culturally immersive itineraries on the Rhine, including visits to iconic cities.