Each year offers new possibilities to visit amazing places. Whether you like to go back to places we fell in love with or discover new places to explore, here are 14 European destinations for 2014 that the team at LooknWalk has thought you may like.

1. Prague, Czech Rep.

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Well known as a cheap European destination for those who want to party, Prague competes with Budapest and Vienna for attention when it comes to its beauty.

Plan your trip around the Christmas Markets that lit up the city from November well into January; or show up just as the weather is warming up so that you can avoid the peak travel season while enjoying the well-known sights including Prague Castle and The Astronomical Clock.

2. Cluj Napoca, Romania

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The capital of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is a cosmopolite, vibrant city. Plan your visit around summer and escape to the nearby amazing places such as Turda Salt Mine or Cojocna. In the city, visiting the remains of the Old Citadel or just spend time strolling its beautiful streets.

>>here are some great things you can do in Cluj-Napoca and nearby

3. Eger, Hungary

A small town in Hungary, Eger can easily be visited during a day trip from Budapest. But linger a bit longer and explore Eger Castle, try the local wines, and discover the city under the city.

>>discover what you can do during 2 days in Eger

4. Sibiu, Romania

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A small gem in the heart of Transylvania, Sibiu ranks high on the traveler’s wishlist. There are a lot of cultural events taking place here no matter the season – but they do peak in summer. Small but packing a punch, Sibiu is a great base to explore the rest of Transylvania.

>>check out what you can do during a weekend in Sibiu

5. Dublin, Ireland

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Sure, you are likely to have Dublin on your radar if you like to…sample booze. But even I won’t shy away from tasting Guinness. Plus, there’s always the Castle to check out, some parks to check out, a cathedral, and many more.

6. Naples (Herculaneum and Pompeii), Italy

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The birthplace of pizza is also the getaway into the Costiera Amalfitana. Circumvesuviana, which takes you to Herculaneum and Pompeii, goes all the way to Sorrento. Allow a day to check out the famous cities destroyed by Vesuvius. And why not, climb that volcano too?

7. Edinburgh, Scotland

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Without a doubt, visiting Edinburgh Castle is the highlight of any trip here. You can also visit the National Museum of Scotland, walk down the Royal Mile, and try some local foods. Oh, the whiskey.

8. Lisbon, Portugal

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Vibrant, colorful, compact and warm during winter. That’s how I like the cities to be. And Lisbon fits the bill. Add in the colorful Sintra Castle located nearby and the access to beaches, and you’ve got a gem to explore!

9. Athens, Greece

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You will fall in love with Athens. Hard. The historical sites, the people, the food, the weather…everything will keep you from leaving. Allow at least half a day to check out the Acropolis and let yourself be drawn by Anafiotika. Photograph a cat or two while you are at it. Stroll in Plaka and walk all the way to Monastiraki.

10. Poienari Fortress, Romania

Perched atop a high peak, with access via Transfarasan HighWay – world’s most beautiful road – Poienari Fortress is the stuff of legend. It was the real Dracula Castle, though. Come ready to take the many steps up to get to the fortress and enjoy the views.

Sometimes, it is closed due to …the friendly bears residing in the forests surrounding it.

11. Sovata , Romania

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Many Romanians won’t give much thought to come here but ask Hungarians and they surely know about this place. Unfortunately, it’s not easy to get to unless you own a car and it’s not cheap either. But, it’s surely worth it just to be in nature.

12. Herculane, Romania

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Little is left of this once well-known Roman and then Romanian resort. But for those who enjoy hiking, it’s a place they should not miss visiting. Bonus points if you like to camp.

13. Crete, Greece

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The largest of the Greek islands, Crete has a lot of things to offer to the visitor. If you enjoy hiking, there’s a beautiful gorge to explore. If history is on your mind, then head to the Palace of Knossos. Or just plant yourself in the first taverna, order some mezedes and enjoy life. On the beach. While the rest of Europe is freezing.

14. Ios, Greece

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A party island, yes. But visit before the high season and you’ll discover Ios is different. Quiet and intriguing. Home to an interesting historical site and a museum. Oh and the weather is gorgeous. There’s a lot of hiking to be done here – even between gorgeous beaches. And let’s not forget the glorious food.

>>discover what you can do during 5 days visiting Ios

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