Understanding that Europe is overflowing with tourist attractions, culture and too many historical cities to see in one trip, how do you decide which cities are the must-sees during your two-week vacation? Below is the best of Europe: the most popular, most youthful, most beautiful, most bizarre, the best-kept secret plus more.

London, England: The number one study abroad location for American students, England's capital, London is a wonderful city full of exiting things to see and do. The best way to get around the city is by subway (or as they call it in England, "the underground"). From these underground stops you can usually walk to most of the area's best attractions.

For a beautiful view of London, take a ride on the London Eye (an observation wheel). If you are into art, stop by the National Gallery or the Tate Modern. For history enthusiasts, the Tower of London never fails to impress. If you need a break from all that sightseeing, take a stroll in one of London's many parks or visit a market. Portobello Road market is certainly worth a visit on Saturday.

One of the nicest aspects of London is that it has one of the least expensive international flights available for American students (not counting Canada). Travel websites statravel.com or studentuniverse.com usually offer the best prices, and provide spring break discounts as well (I paid $180 to fly roundtrip from Chicago to London last October break). However, once you arrive, expect everything to be very pricey. London is the third most expensive city in the world, following Tokyo and Osaka, based on annual cost of living.

Attractions:

1. British Museum
2. Buckingham Palace
3. Westminster Abbey
4. Camden Market
5. Covent Garden

Prague, Czech Republic: Perhaps the most youth-oriented city on our list, Prague has captured its history like no other. Because Prague was basically undamaged during WWII, it has in many ways remained the same for years and managed to preserve its beauty. Scattered throughout the city are pubs catering to young adults (18-25), trendy cafes, traditional restaurants, winding cobblestone pathways and romantic parks and gardens (where Europeans are not afraid to show PDA). So not to miss the hidden alleyways, revealing mystery and history, Prague is best experienced on foot.

Attractions:

1. Hradèany Museum
2. Josefov (Old Jewish Quarter)
3. Malá Strana district
4. Old Town Square
5. Petrin Hill

Budapest, Hungary: Many claim Budapest as the nightlife capital of Europe. The capital of Hungary, Budapest's tradition and culture is still thriving. Although Westernization advancement is affecting the deep-rooted traditions, the beauty and ancient feel of the city will always set Budapest apart.

Lonely Planet travel guide described Budapest perfectly: "With its multifarious and often embittered history, incredible architecture and rich cultural heritage, Hungary's capital deserves its reputation as the 'Paris of Eastern Europe.' It has a complex identity, somewhere between Western luxury and simple traditions."

The Danube River winds through the city center, providing great views from the many parks, hills and gardens. Budapest rests atop thermal hot springs and cool mineral springs, which creates opportunities to visit the many old-fashioned bathhouses and spas.

Attractions:

1. Castle Hill
2. City Park
3. Gellért Hill
4. Király Baths
5. Magyar Állami Operaház (Opera House)

Valencia, Spain: Europe's best-kept secret, Valencia, is on the southern Mediterranean coast, about two hours southeast of Madrid, Spain's capital. Valencia is rapidly becoming a very popular student destination. The San Francisco-like city is safe, inexpensive and the night-life is varied and alive. Valencia feels young and vivacious and the locals are personable and friendly.

Similar to Prague, Valencia is best seen on foot. Aside from Barcelona, Valencia is the only Spanish city that has ferry access to the Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca) every day at 3 p.m. From the Valencian harbor, students can catch a four hour ferry to any of these popular spring break locations. Be prepared for lots of tourists.

Attractions:

1. The City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de Las Artes y Las Ciencias)
2. Jardin Botanico (Botanical Garden)
3. Central Market
4. Fallas Museum
5. El Palmar and the Albufera of Valencia

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Beer (and lots of it), homemade by monks and served in classic cafes, is one of the main draws in Amsterdam. Tourists scatter throughout the cobbled streets during the summer months; yet the Dutch culture still remains predominant. Canals glide throughout the city, with lush parks and bicycle "owned" winding streets following beside. Voted by travelers as one of the hardest cities to leave,

Amsterdam has maintained a very relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, which has proven ideal for backpackers.

Amsterdam is known for its very unique and bizarre selection of museums and restaurant styles. The Red Light District also draws crowds of all kinds looking to discover the city's exotic night life. Amsterdam is like no other city in Europe, with lots to do and experience, you don't have go far to be entertained.

Attractions:

1. Begijnhof courtyard
2. Boat through the canals
3. Van Gogh Museum
4. Stedelijk Museum
5. Southern Canal Belt

(Note: City attractions recommended by Lonely Planet.)

Keep in mind that flying throughout European cities is easier and cheaper than in the U.S. Check for flights at ryanair.com or flybmi.com where prices can range from around $50 to over $200. Also, Eurail is an easy and convenient way to travel throughout Europe.

EUROPEAN TRAVEL INFO

London:

www.visitlondon.com

Prague:

www.prague.cz

Budapest:

www.budapestinfo.hu/en

Valencia:

www.turisvalencia.es

www.24-7valencia.com.

For trains and buses from Madrid to Valencia, visit www.auto-res.net or www.renfe.es. For ferry information, visit www.balearia.net/eng/index_balearia.htm.

Amsterdam:

www.visitamsterdam.nl

Meghan Hoover is the publisher of Authentic Travel, a student-created, student-run magazine. To learn more or to submit your own travel story to the magazine, visit www.authentictravelmagazine.com.

© 2005, InCharge® Education Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved.