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Split, Croatia: Modern City on Ancient Roots Jan 25, 2012

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Split's residents are literally living in a Roman palace. In the fourth century AD the Roman Emperor Diocletian retired and built a vast residence to live out his golden years here in his native Dalmatia. Later when Rome fell, Diocletian's palace was abandoned. Eventually, a medieval town sprouted from its abandoned classical shell and his mausoleum became a cathedral. To this day, the maze of narrow alleys — once literally Diocletian's hallways — make up the core of Split. Nearby, the seaside promenade is perfect for a stroll. 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.

Córdoba, Spain: Magnificent Mezquita Jan 18, 2012

Show notes

Tucked into a bend of its river, Córdoba is rich in Roman, Moorish and Christian history. Within massive old town walls, inviting courtyards and convivial squares beckon. The heart of the city is dominated by the glorious Mezquita, a mosque/cathedral complex that epitomizes a turbulent past. Yet despite long periods of conflict, the Golden Age of the 10th century saw Jews, Christians and Muslims living here in harmony. As is typical of Andalucía, Córdoba is a people-friendly city, bursting with energy and color. 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.

Belfast, Northern Ireland: A Black Cab Tour of Falls Road Jan 11, 2012

Show notes

A cab is the best way to tour Belfast's sectarian neighborhoods and their gripping political murals. Just west of downtown, Falls Road (Catholic) and the Shankhill Road (Protestant) are two well-known areas. And your ride can come with an education; for a reasonable hourly fee, many cabbies give visitors impromptu tours that will give you insights into the "Troubles", a conflict that is thankfully much less volatile than it has been in the past. 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.

Orvieto Italy: Family-run Winery Jan 04, 2012

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Italy is literally covered in vineyards. An hour north of Rome, near the hill town of Orvieto is the Tenuta le Vellete winery. A tour of this family-run property includes the main house with its atmospheric Etruscan cellars, stunning views from the terrace and a chance to taste several wines including the famous Orvieto Classico. 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.

Hillerød, Denmark: Stunning Frederiksborg Castle Dec 28, 2011

Show notes

Just outside of Copenhagen is Frederiksborg castle, built in the early 1600s by Denmark's greatest king, Christian IV. Many consider this "Danish Versailles" to be the grandest castle in all of Scandinavia. The king imported Dutch Renaissance architects to create his own striking "Christian IV style" used here and in fancy buildings all over Copenhagen. Inside the castle you'll find an excellent museum of Danish history. 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.

Rothenburg, Germany: Christmas Tree Traditions Dec 21, 2011

Show notes

Christmas in Europe is rich with tradition. About 500 years ago Germany was the first place where decorated trees became a part of Christmas celebrations, though the use of trees during a winter festival predates the birth of Christ. In the 1800s, when candles became affordable, the tree of lights arrived along with the tradition of the family gathering around the tree for gift-giving. Rothenburg is a German town infused with the Christmas spirit year-round. It’s a great place to learn about history of the holiday and to buy a special ornament to bring home for your own tree. 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.

Basque Country: St. Jean-de-Luz Dec 14, 2011

Show notes

The colorful, compact Basque region hugs the Atlantic coast, straddling northeast Spain and southwest France. St. Jean-de-Luz, France is a relaxing little port to "come home" to, with its mellow ambience, fine strolling, unique architecture, sandy beach, and enticing restaurants. 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.

Bergen, Norway: Salty Harbor Town Dec 07, 2011

Show notes

With 250,000 people, Bergen has big-city parking problems and high prices, but visitors sticking to the old center find it charming. Enjoy Bergen's salty market, then stroll the easy-on-foot old quarter, with cute lanes of delicate old wooden houses. And, for a modern contrast, head for the urban heart of Bergen — which has a thriving personality all its own. 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.

Barcelona, Spain: Parc Güell Nov 30, 2011

Show notes

For a playful dose of architectural genius, visit Gaudí's colorful Parc Güell. Gaudí intended this 30-acre garden to be a 60-residence housing project — a kind of gated community. As a high-end housing development, the project flopped. But a century later, as a park, it's a huge success. 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.

Delphi, Greece: Spectacular Ancient Site Nov 23, 2011

Show notes

Ancient Delphi, perched high on the slopes of Mt. Parnassos, was not a city. It was the site of the oracle of Apollo, god of the sun. People would journey here from all over the known world to seek wisdom from the gods on vital affairs of state. Tourists today zig-zag up the ancient Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo. The path is flanked by the remains of Delphi's famous treasuries — monuments erected by city-states in gratitude for the oracle's advice. 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.

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