Southern Europe Classics: Nine scenic cities worth lingering in, nestled between France, Italy, Switzerland, and Morocco.
If Europe were painted as a long scroll, it would begin in Paris, gently brush across the snow-capped mountains and lakes of Lucerne, traverse the heartland of Italy where classicism and romance intertwine, and finally slowly retreat along the Mediterranean coastline, like a gentle yet powerful melody.
The Green Line route takes you on a journey through time, from the rooftops of Milan's churches to the echoes of history in Venice's canals, from the ruins of Rome to the lingering warmth of civilization, and offers a brief respite in Florence's shimmering light, where you can glimpse the very origins of the Renaissance. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Royal Palace of Monaco, and the azure coastlines of Nice and Cannes are like pearls adorning the route, weaving it together in a rich and fluid fashion.
It brought to life people's first imagination of "Europe," packaging all the classics in a week while keeping the pace just right.
Lucerne | A Fairytale Opening Recipe Between Snow-capped Mountains and Lakes
Lucerne is a Swiss jewel nestled in the embrace of a lake. In the early morning, before the mist has fully dissipated, the Chapel Bridge spans the lake, as if time itself slows down. You can board a mountain train and slowly drift into the embrace of the Alps, overlooking the mirror-like lake and the picturesque city.
Recommended attractions: Lake Lucerne, Lion Monument, Chapel Bridge, and the Scenic Railway experience.
Milano | A Fashion Kingdom on Carved Stone Tips
Milan is a facet of a city, cool in texture yet radiant in light. The Gothic Cathedral, like a gleaming crown, sits atop the square. Upon reaching the top, the wind whistling through the spires evokes a solemn beauty that leaves one speechless for a long time. In the arcades, renowned shops stand side-by-side, where the grandeur of the old city and the sharp edge of the modern stand side by side.
Recommended attractions: Milan Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Piazza Duomo
Venice (Venezia) | Melancholy Poems Floating on the Water
No city is more like an old-fashioned lover than Venice. She's always damp, hazy, slightly weary yet captivating. You can listen to the gondolier sing on a gondola, or stroll along the cobblestones of St. Mark's Square, trying not to disturb the pigeons' daily routine. She's aging, but still radiant.
Recommended attractions: St. Mark's Basilica, Bridge of Sighs, gondola ride, Burano (colorful island) optional
Rome | A place where civilization and ruins breathe together
Every step you take in Rome is a step forward through history. The Colosseum has long lost its bloodshed, but a trace of imperial power remains. You might get lost here—not because the paths are unclear, but because you'll be irresistibly drawn to a sculpture or a set of steps.
Recommended attractions: Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Roman Forum
Vatican City | The roof of faith, the world's smallest country
Vatican City is not a country, but more of a symbol. St. Peter's Basilica is towering and serene; when sunlight streams through the dome and falls upon you, you don't need faith to be moved by its piety.
Recommended attractions: St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican Square, Sistine Chapel (optional)
Florence Firenze | Beneath the Red Roofs, the Quiet Call of the Renaissance
Stepping into Florence is like stepping into an oil painting. The red-roofed cathedral seems to still retain the touch of Michelangelo; the Uffizi Gallery holds the gaze of the gods; along the Arno River, the twilight is golden, and the wind is gentle.
Recommended attractions: Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore), Piazzale Michelangelo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge)
Pisa | That slanted romance has never fallen.
A small town remembered by the world for its "lean" shape. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, like a stubborn traveler, forever stands between tilt and balance. It is not a flaw, but a source of pride.
Recommended attractions: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa Cathedral, Sant'Noven Baptistery
Monaco | A Luxurious Universe in One Square Kilometer
Monaco is like an epitome of aristocracy; though small in size, it exudes elegant wealth. The royal palace sits atop a hill overlooking the Mediterranean, while casinos and yachts shimmer in the sunlight. Strolling through it feels like walking through a film filtered through a golden lens.
Recommended attractions: Monaco Palace, Monte Carlo Casino, Harbour District
Nice | A Gentle Pause on the French Riviera
Nice is France's gentle interpretation of life. Sunshine, beaches, flower markets, light-colored old houses, and leisurely cafes—it's the ideal respite from city life.
Recommended attractions: Bay of Angels, Promenade des Anglais, Nice Old Town
How far a route can take you depends on whether it truly resonates with the depths of your memory. The Green Line is not just a journey across five countries and ten cities, but a path for encountering mountains, civilizations, and oneself. Those European scenes you've seen in books and movies will come to life on this route.
