Age is no barrier to curiosity. Grey Travel is inspiring seasoned explorers to experience Europe’s most captivating cities. Falstaff TRAVEL highlights ten destinations recently embraced by these intrepid travelers.
Wanderlust knows no age: more and more travel-loving best agers are being inspired by new cities. Falstaff TRAVEL presents the top 10 places that senior citizens have just discovered for themselves. They are all located in Europe.
According to a study by the US non-profit organization "AARP", which promotes the interests of older people, almost 70 percent of people over 60 have actively planned trips in the past year - a clear indication that the thirst for adventure knows no age.
The travel insurer "All Clear" has examined which cities around the world are particularly suitable for older travelers based on various criteria. Over 175 cities were assessed in terms of mobility, safety, access to healthcare, environmental conditions and accessibility of accommodation. Ten European cities are particularly suitable for a city trip in old age and are on the bucket list for the over 60s.
At the top of the ranking are European cities that are characterized by a particularly good infrastructure and pedestrian-friendly design. Valencia impresses with its flat cityscape, diverse cultural offerings and lively gastronomic scene. Dutch cities are also very popular: The Hague not only scores points for safety, but also for its generous green spaces and excellent accessibility. Right behind it is Amsterdam, where consistently pedestrian-friendly urban planning makes exploring the city particularly pleasant.
1. Valencia, Spain
Valencia combines history, culture and the sea - ideal for a relaxing weekend. The old town Ciutat Vella delights with its narrow streets, the "Plaza de la Reina" and the cathedral, while cafés and shady squares invite you to relax. You should definitely try the local almond milk ("horchata"). Art lovers can visit the "Museo Nacional de Cerámica" or the "Lladró" porcelain factory. Relaxing walks are possible in the nine-kilometre Turia Park, and on beaches such as "Playa de las Arenas" or "Port-Saplaya" you can enjoy the sun, sea and Mediterranean cuisine.
2 The Hague, Netherlands
Sea air instead of mass tourism; just half an hour from Amsterdam, The Hague offers exactly what many in the capital are longing for: space to take a deep breath. Between the seat of government, art museums and the beaches of Scheveningen, a trip for best agers can be spent here in a relaxed manner - and without any tourist stress. Ideal for anyone who wants to commute back and forth between culture and art.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam impresses with picturesque canals, narrow gabled houses and a rich artistic and cultural heritage. The Museumplein with the "Rijksmuseum", the "Vincent van Gogh Museum" and the "Stedelijk Museum" offers art from the 17th century to modern times. Culinary highlights await directly on site, for example in the creative restaurant "Rijks" or in the glasshouse restaurant "De Kas" with ingredients grown on site. Green oases such as the "Vondelpark" invite you to take a relaxing stroll.
4 Rotterdam, Netherlands
Rotterdam impresses with its modern architecture, charming neighborhoods and diverse gastronomy. Breakfast is a treat here: numerous cafés and bakeries such as the "Harvest Café & Bakery" serve fresh croissants, sourdough bread and egg dishes. Typically Dutch are chips with peanut butter, for example at "Bram Ladage". In the evening, bars and wine bars on the Witte de Withstraat or in the harbor district are tempting, and for cheese lovers, Kaas aan de Maas offers tastings and large cheeses to try.
5 Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital is considered one of the most liveable cities in the world and inspires with design, fashion, architecture and a lively culinary scene. Michelin-starred restaurants such as "Noma", "Geranium" and "Jordnær" set standards, while cafés such as "Delphine" and "Babylon" offer indulgence in a minimalist Mediterranean style. Design fans will find highlights at "Designmuseum Danmark", interiors and little treasures at "Kiosk Copenhagen Vibes", fashion at Illum or Magasin du Nord. Quiet oases such as side streets or the lakes invite you to relax, and the city can be easily explored by bike on almost 400 kilometers of cycle paths.
6 Porto, Portugal
Porto combines its historic old town with culinary delights: The Ponte Dom Luis I connects the charming "Ribeira" district with Vila Nova de Gaia, known for its port wine cellars. The city is the gateway to the Douro Valley, one of the oldest wine regions in Europe, and offers numerous opportunities for wine tasting, gourmet experiences and relaxing walks along the river. Porto combines architecture, pleasure and the scenic beauty of the Douro Valley.
7 Munich, Germany
Munich, often referred to as the "northernmost city in Italy", combines historical sights, lively districts and a diverse gastronomic scene. Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt and the "Dallmayr Delikatessenhaus" are among the highlights, as are top restaurants such as "JAN" and "Atelier". Art and culture lovers will find impressive exhibitions at the Pinakothek der Moderne, the Lenbachhaus and Nymphenburg Palace. Quiet parks such as the English Garden invite you to take relaxing walks, while charming districts such as Schwabing or Glockenbach invite you to stroll and wander. Bars such as the "Grapes Wine Bar" round off the experience with exquisite drinks.
8 Helsinki, Finland
Breakfast at Kauppatori with coffee and "korvapuusti" (cinnamon buns) is a must in Helsinki, as is a visit to the historic Kauppahalli market hall with fresh salmon, herring and rye bread. The city thrives on a mix of tradition and modernity: architecture by Alvar Aalto in the "Savoy", the Design District, the world-famous Suomenlinna sea fortress and the Temppeliaukio church in the rock. The culinary spectrum ranges from light, local dishes at "Emo" to Nordic fine dining highlights such as the Michelin-awarded "Olo" and exotic cuisine at "Farang".
9 Geneva, Switzerland
Geneva is considered the cradle of Swiss watchmaking and is also a melting pot of international organizations. This multicultural flair is reflected in the gastronomy; gourmets will find French classics, top Asian cuisine and innovative concepts. There are around 100 vineyards around Geneva with local specialties such as Gamay or Chasselas. Wine bars such as the "Bombar" or gourmet addresses in Satigny, such as Philippe Chevrier's "Domaine de Châteauvieux", round off the culinary offerings.
10 Lisbon, Portugal
After the devastating earthquake of 1755, Lisbon was magnificently rebuilt and today impresses with its historic charm and modern districts. The typical Lisbon experience begins at Praça do Comércio: historic squares, views of the Tagus and multimedia insights into the city's history. In culinary terms, it is worth visiting José Avillez's "Belcanto" for fine Portuguese cuisine or the "BA Wine Bar do Bairro Alto" for wine tastings. Typical specialties such as "Pastéis de Nata" can be enjoyed in the "Pastéis de Belém". The historic Sintra with its palaces and the coastal town of Cascais are ideal for excursions.
