British Isles: England, Ireland & Scotland

Exploring Belfast is a treat for urban fans. The city is rife with trendy cafés, restaurants, and nightlife yet it also boasts a lovely historical district. While the city is packed with things to do, rural landscapes are within a short reach.

Discover the storied history of Ireland’s largest city, Dublin. Take a whimsical walk along Dun Laoghaire’s iconic East Pier or make your way up to the crest of Killiney Hill to experience the most majestic views of the capital. Treat yourself to a pint of Irish stout after exploring the history of beer at the Guinness Storehouse or imbibe a little Irish whiskey at one of the many historic pubs. Then stroll through St. Stephen’s Green in the center of the city before surveying the selection of shops along Grafton Street.

Located in northwest England, Liverpool is a bustling maritime city. Dating back to the 13th century, Liverpool boasts some of the country’s best museums and galleries and a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a well-known symphony orchestra and two world-class professional football (soccer) teams. And of course, every Beatles fan knows Liverpool as the hometown of the world-famous band.

Golfers will love a scenic drive to St. Andrews, birthplace of the challenging sport. This capital city has thousands of years of history, incredible views, and the world's largest art festival. Tour Craigmillar, Dalhousie and Edinburgh Castles or see the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Situated on the River Tyne in northeast England, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne is a hub for arts, sciences and history. This Victorian city was born from the coal and steel industries and today boasts excellent art galleries, numerous delicious restaurants and cultural and historical attractions. Enjoy a walking tour of Newcastle and trace the city’s history back to the Celtic Age. Venture below ground into the historic Victoria Tunnel that was built for coal wagons between 1839 and 1842 and then used as an air raid shelter during World War II. Your children (or your inner child) will love stepping into the hands-on museum Seven Stories that’s a celebration of children’s literature. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne.

History, culture and architecture intertwine in Amsterdam among its narrow lanes and numerous canals. Featuring more bridges than Venice, enjoying a canal tour is a great way to take in the many sights of Amsterdam (and get some great photo ops). Art lovers won’t want to miss the Van Gough Museum and the Rijksmuseum while history buffs will want to make time for the Anne Frank House and the Amsterdam Museum.

The ultimate European city, Brussels has tons of museums, fountains, gardens and great shopping. Stroll the Old Town area to see St. Hubert Arcades and its shops, as well as Butchers' Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes and the Grand Place with its Baroque guild houses.

Hop on a tour bus to the City of Light to experience the magic of Paris. Stroll down the Champs-Elysées as you nibble on a croissant. Take photos of beautiful Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Montmartre and all the other iconic places of Paris lie 120 miles up the Seine from the port of Le Havre. Or explore the charms of Le Havre, spend the day at Monet’s Giverny or explore Rouen’s Old Market Place, where Joan of Arc was burned in 1431.

Protected from the frequent storms of the English Channel by the Isle of Wight, Southampton has survived a turbulent history to serve as a principal port of the United Kingdom today. Pay homage to one of the most famous ships to sail these shores at the Mayflower Memorial. Visit the stoic walls of Bargate and the Tudor House Museum.