Essential Fun Facts Before Visiting Europe’s Iconic Landmarks

Planning a trip to Europe? You're probably already daydreaming about exploring the Louvre, marveling at the Sagrada Familia, and snapping selfies at the Colosseum. But before you dive into this adventure, let's sprinkle in some fun facts that’ll make your trip even more memorable—and give you some cool trivia to impress your travel buddies!

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Ever wondered what the Louvre was before it became the world’s most-visited museum? Here’s a hint: it wasn’t always about Mona Lisa’s smile. The Louvre started its life as a fortress way back in the 12th century, designed to protect Paris from—you guessed it—those pesky medieval invaders. Fast forward a few centuries, and voilà! It’s now home to over 35,000 works of art. Talk about a glow-up!

Pro Tip: Skip the line and save time by entering through the lesser-known Porte des Lions entrance. It’s less crowded than the main entrance under the pyramid, especially in the mornings. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re gazing at the Mona Lisa instead of waiting in line.

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Did you know that the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam holds the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works? But here’s the kicker: not all of his masterpieces are on display at once. The museum rotates its collection, so you might catch different paintings depending on when you visit. It’s like an art lover’s version of a treasure hunt—who knows what you’ll discover?

Pro Tip: Book your tickets online for a timed entry. The museum can get crowded, especially in the afternoons. An early morning slot will give you a more relaxed experience, with fewer people jostling for a view of Van Gogh’s famous works.

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The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is the ultimate “work in progress.” Construction started in 1882, and it’s still not finished! But don’t worry—it’s not because the builders are slacking off. The design is so intricate and detailed that it’s taking longer than anticipated. The current plan? To complete it by 2026, marking 100 years since the death of its visionary architect, Antoni Gaudí. Fingers crossed!

Pro Tip: Reserve a spot for a guided tour. It’s worth the extra cost to understand the symbolism and details that make Gaudí’s masterpiece so unique. Plus, guided tours often let you skip the line, which is a big win in the busy summer months.

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The Colosseum is a must-see for history buffs and gladiator movie fans alike. But did you know it could hold up to 80,000 spectators? That’s like packing an entire modern football stadium! In its heyday, the Colosseum was the place to be for epic battles, wild animal shows, and—believe it or not—nautical reenactments, complete with water flooding the arena floor.

Pro Tip: Get a combined ticket that includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. This way, you can explore all three sites without the need to buy separate tickets. Plus, start your visit at the Palatine Hill entrance to avoid the long lines at the main Colosseum entrance.

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The Palace of Versailles is synonymous with opulence, but it’s also where history was made. The Hall of Mirrors isn’t just a room with a lot of reflective surfaces—it’s where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending World War I. Imagine the world leaders of the time, all dressed to the nines, hashing out peace agreements under crystal chandeliers. If only these mirrors could talk!

Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays and get there early. Versailles can be packed on weekends, so aim for a mid-week visit. Also, consider renting a golf cart to explore the expansive gardens without wearing yourself out. It’s a lifesaver, especially in the summer heat!

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Paris Disneyland might be the happiest place in Europe, but it’s also the only Disney park where you can meet Remy from Ratatouille in his very own attraction. Yes, the little chef has his own ride, “Ratatouille: The Adventure,” where you can shrink down to the size of a rat and explore Gusteau’s restaurant. It’s a culinary caper that’s as charming as it sounds!

Pro Tip: Use the Single Rider line to cut down your wait time. This is especially handy for popular rides like Ratatouille or Big Thunder Mountain. You might not sit with your group, but you’ll spend less time standing in line and more time enjoying the park.

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The Eiffel Tower wasn’t always beloved by Parisians. When it was first built for the 1889 World’s Fair, many locals considered it an eyesore. But over time, it’s become one of the most iconic structures in the world, symbolizing romance and the Parisian spirit. Fun fact: the Eiffel Tower was supposed to be dismantled after 20 years, but it’s still standing strong over a century later, now with millions of visitors each year.

Pro Tip: Visit at night for a magical experience. The Eiffel Tower sparkles for five minutes every hour on the hour after sunset. Seeing it lit up against the night sky is a moment you won’t want to miss.

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So there you have it—some fun facts to spice up your European adventure, along with practical tips to make your visit smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re marveling at art, pondering history, or just having fun, these iconic landmarks are sure to leave a lasting impression. Now go out there and make some memories! And if you’re ready to book your tickets, you know where to go—Trip.com has you covered.