20 days in Europe & Asia Itinerary

A massive country in eastern Europe, Poland offers much to those who venture beyond the continent's more traditional touristic destinations. Dating back to the first millennium, the republic has over a thousand years of heritage to explore, including an abundance of World War II history. Bordered by Germany to the west and Ukraine and Belarus to the east, Poland was the rope in a game of tug of war between German Nazis and the Soviet Allied forces. Major cities like Krakow, Warsaw, Gdansk, Wroclaw, Lodz, Poznan, and Lublin are offer an array of cultural attractions. The infamous concentration camp Auschwitz, near Krakow, is a difficult experience but a must for anyone visiting the area. Be sure to sample hearty comfort foods rich in meat, cabbage, and spices--the Polish secret to making it through harsh winters.

Surprisingly diverse for such a narrow strip of land pressed against the Mediterranean, modern Israel only dates back to 1948, though the history of this "Holy Land" spans many millennia. The big three monotheistic religions--Christianity, Judaism, and Islam--maintain extremely strong ties to this part of the world, so you can expect to see plenty of historic churches, mosques, and synagogues during your holiday in Israel. Beyond the undeniable cultural appeal, Israel also offers impressive natural features, including the Dead Sea and Makhtesh Ramon, one of the world's biggest craters. As you tour Israel, you'll find yourself following in the footsteps of figures that helped shape the world thousands of years ago.

From historical towns and cities, to a countryside speckled with castles and chateaus, the Czech Republic is a holiday destination that can satisfy everybody's taste. Even though it's modern and fully-developed, the country carefully preserves its traditions and heritage. The city of Prague, with its breathtaking architecture, vibrant art and culture scene, and bustling nightlife, is not only one of the country's main attractions, but also a top European tourist hub. The scenic countryside features numerous national parks and nature reserves perfect for hiking, cycling, golfing, and enjoying the natural beauty. In the wintertime ski buffs have their pick from a selection of resorts. If you're looking to unwind and rejuvenate in picturesque settings, visit the famous spa and wellness resorts that have been renowned in Europe for centuries.

A small country packing a big punch in terms of tourist attractions, Belgium sits at the crossroads of Western Europe, its cities soaked in history and famed for their lively arts, fashion, and dining scenes. Although it advertises itself simply as "A Food Lover's Dream," this country of just 11 million people boasts a rich architectural heritage, world-famous breweries, pristine natural areas, and touching memorials marking major battlegrounds from both World War I and World War II. Put the country's elegant cities of Brussels and Bruges at the top of your itinerary, but don't forget that Belgium's less-explored countryside offers dense forests, rolling hills, and lush valleys.