Holidays are important. They give us time to relax, recharge, see new places and immerse ourselves in local culture. Even though they're important we might only have one a year so of course, it needs to be memorable for all the right reasons.

From astonishing natural wonders and elaborate examples of architecture to villages that are more than worthy of an afternoon's explorations, here are some of our favourite extraordinary sights throughout the continent.

Majestic mountain peaks have some of the most spectacular backdrops in the world. The best way to soak up their natural beauty is undoubtedly travelling through them by rail.