Europe can be intimidating for first-time visitors because there are so many destinations to choose from. From ancient cities and medieval towns to beaches and mountain villages, the continent offers an enormous variety of travel experiences.

For a first trip, however, some destinations make it particularly easy to experience European culture, history and food.

Rome is one of Europe's most rewarding destinations for first-time travellers.

The city combines ancient history with modern Italian life. Visitors can see the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon and countless historic churches and squares.

Rome is also an excellent destination for food lovers. Traditional pasta dishes, pizza, gelato and espresso are part of the city's everyday culture.

Because there is so much to see, allow several days if possible rather than treating Rome as a quick stop.

Paris remains one of Europe's classic city-break destinations.

The Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame area and Sacré-Cœur are among the best-known attractions, but simply walking through different neighbourhoods can be equally enjoyable.

Paris is particularly well suited to travellers who enjoy museums, architecture, cafés and shopping.

A longer stay also makes it easier to explore beyond the major tourist attractions.

Barcelona offers an appealing combination of architecture, beaches, food and nightlife.

The work of Antoni Gaudí gives the city a distinctive appearance, with the Sagrada Família and Park Güell among its most recognisable sights.

Barcelona also has a Mediterranean atmosphere. Visitors can spend the morning sightseeing before heading to the beach or enjoying a long evening meal.

It is also a major departure point for Mediterranean cruises.

Athens is an excellent introduction to Greece.

The Acropolis and Parthenon provide an unforgettable connection to ancient history, while the modern city offers restaurants, markets and lively neighbourhoods.

Athens can also be combined with a Greek island holiday.

Travellers might spend a few days exploring the capital before travelling onward to an island such as Crete, Rhodes or Santorini.

Amsterdam is relatively compact and easy to explore.

Its canals, narrow buildings and cycling culture give the city a distinctive character.

Museums are another major attraction, with opportunities to explore Dutch art and history.

The city is particularly convenient for travellers who want to combine sightseeing with day trips to other parts of the Netherlands.

Lisbon has become increasingly popular with international travellers.

The Portuguese capital combines historic neighbourhoods, viewpoints, tiled buildings and excellent food.

Its location also makes it possible to explore nearby coastal areas and historic towns.

Lisbon can be a good choice for travellers looking for a European city that feels slightly less formal and hectic than some of the continent's largest capitals.

For travellers interested in classical music, architecture and elegant historic surroundings, Vienna is an excellent choice.

The city is known for imperial buildings, museums, cafés and musical heritage.

Vienna can also be incorporated into a larger Central European trip, with destinations such as Budapest and Prague relatively accessible.

If possible, avoid trying to visit too many countries in one trip.

Spending two nights in six different cities may look impressive on an itinerary, but much of your holiday can disappear into airports, railway stations and hotel check-ins.

Instead, choose two or three destinations and allow enough time to experience them.

A well-paced European holiday is usually more enjoyable than trying to see the entire continent at once.