The colours of Europe

Collonges-la-Rouge, France

As red as the breathtaking hamlet of Collonges-la-Rouge. It’s considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, and it’s well worth the short bus or taxi ride from Brive-le-Gaillarde station. You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a place that has been frozen in time. The streets have charming little shops, restaurants, and higgledy-piggledy houses. It’s quintessentially French and possibly the most enchanting spot in the Dordogne valley. 

Napoleon's rooms, Paris, France

As red as the interior of Napoleon III Apartments, situated inside the Louvre Museum in Paris. Forget the crowds longing to see the Mona Lisa (for now) and go straight to the former royal residence of Charles Louis Napoleon Bonapart. Few tourists venture here, but if you do, you'll be captivated by crystal chandeliers, bronze decorations, and burgundy wall coverings, all made in the French Baroque style.  

Valencia, Spain

As orange as the orange trees adorning the streets of the capital of the Costa del Azahar (the Orange Blossom Coast). Valencia owes its name to the sharp, sweet smell of citrus that permeates the air, and this sweet fruit is used in traditional marmalade and chickpea stew with orange peel. This part of Spain has a perfect Mediterranean climate and fruitful soil, so you will love visiting this vibrant and colourful UNESCO-listed city.  

The Royal Palace, Seville, Spain

As orange as the interior of the Royal Alcázar Palace in the capital of Andalucía. Seville is a city of flamenco, fiestas, siestas and fiery Hispanic passion, and a movie-maker paradise. You can’t visit without seeing the Alcázar - recently christened the ‘Kingdom of Dorne’ in Game of Thrones. It’s not surprising that HBO used this location for filming when considering the opulent rooms and stunning gardens, all decorated in the exquisite Arabian-esque Moorish style. 

Tuscany, Italy

As yellow as the vineyards of Tuscany in autumn. This region of Italy has long been associated with breathtaking scenery and world-class wine. In this enchanting landscape of rolling hills and wild forests, you’ll discover venerable olive groves, medieval ruins and colourful vineyards. Imagine soaking up the sun while savouring a glass of wine at Italy’s oldest wine estate, Barone Ricasoli, or Fattoria La Loggia, which is situated just south of Florence. Salute!

Beer Museum, Prague, Czech Republic

As yellow as the refreshing beverages from one of the many beer museums or microbreweries in Prague. The Czech Republic has more than 200 breweries, and Prague is known as the capital of beer. You won’t find most of these delicious beers in pubs, so it’s best to visit a museum to taste some of the more special, unique and less common tipples. It’s also the best way to learn about the Czech beer culture. Did you know that the monastery in the Břevnov district of Prague started brewing beer as early as the 10th Century? Na zdraví! 

Northern Lights, Norway

As green as the Aurora Borealis in northern Norway. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so head north of the Arctic Circle to optimise your chances. Late September and October are the best autumn months to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, and you’ll hopefully be rewarded with a kaleidoscopic haze of dancing colour. You can reach Bodø and Narvik by train from Oslo or Stockholm, respectively (be prepared for a long journey), but you need to catch the bus to Tromsø. Pack winter clothing and footwear – both the climate and the aurora are unpredictable.   

Schönbrunn Botanical Gardens, Vienna, Austria

As green as the lush vegetation of the Schönbrunn botanical gardens in the Austrian capital. This is the perfect activity for a cold and rainy day since you can warm yourself up in the tropical heat of the Palmenhaus (Palm House). Regulated by steam, three climatic zones keep the plants watered in this magnificent greenhouse. Located on the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace, you can meander through the last and largest structure of its kind while you admire 4,000 species of plants from all over the world. This indoor oasis of tropical wonders awaits you!

Skopelos island, Greece

As blue as the water surrounding the Skopelos island in Greece. Whichever season you visit, you can always let yourself be captivated by the different shades of blue. Still not as commercial as Santorini or Mykonos, here you will find peace and pristine nature to fill your soul and lovely food spots to fill your stomach with delicious Greek food. We won't blame you if you feel like you're in a movie; after all, most of Mamma Mia's scenes were filmed right here.

The Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey

As blue as the stunning Blue Mosque in Istanbul. This massive monument, built in the early 17th century, is the city's most recognisable sight and can truly leave you speechless. It was originally named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque but earned its new name from the thousands of little blue tiles that have been used in the interior. The countless stained glass windows and chandeliers let enough light inside to make your visit almost magical. 

Notting Hill, London, England

As purple (and many other colours) as the houses in Notting Hill. This lively neighbourhood of London is so much more than just a romantic movie (although we probably all must admit we still love this classic Julia Roberts rom-com). From Europe's biggest street festival to one of London's best markets, you can easily spend hours in the area. Don't be bummed out if the typical English weather catches you because you will find plenty of cheerful colours in the houses at Portobello Road, St Lukes Mews, Lancaster Road or Elgin Crescent.

Cadbury World, Birmingham, England

As purple as this chocolate heaven, also known as Cadbury World. Conveniently located in the suburbs of Birmingham, this chocolate factory experience offers so many amazing activities that you will soon realise you still carry the enthusiasm of a small child. Playing in chocolate rain, having a delicious pot of warm liquid Cadbury Dairy Milk and going on the magical Cadabra ride - you may call us crazy. Still, it seems that we will finally be able to live out Charlie's experience at the Willy Wonka Factory from the all-time favourite Roald Dahl's book!

Get your Interrail Pass

Are you ready to see all the colours of Europe this autumn? Whether you want to experience the whole spectrum or just some classic red and orange, you can find the perfect Interrail Pass for your trip.