Fairy-tale castles cast their shadows over lush green valleys and Gothic churches stand proudly amid beautifully preserved medieval towns. Galleries overflow with masterpieces from the likes of Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rodin, Van Gogh and Picasso.

Festivals have evolved from ancient pagan rituals. Hell, even beer drinking has a time-honoured track record, especially in countries such as Belgium, the Czech Republic and Germany.