We love books. As we celebrate Book Lovers Day, we remember that one of our first and most popular tours was based on the book, Angels and Demons. To mark one of our favorite days, we have compiled a list of the top books to read when touring in Europe and to get under the skin of the cities you visit.
We have also included a competition below to win 2 x tickets for a selected tour up to the total value of €250. Just select your favorite vacation read below and take part in our book related vacation survey before August 5th to be in with a chance to win.
1. London: Harry Potter - J.K. Rowling
Nothing gets you more in the mood for the magic of London than following a boy wizard through a wall in Kings Cross train station to an alternate world where wizards, fabulous creatures and unusual transport systems are part of everyday life. As this world takes shape on the page, it will only add to your experience of the city that is home to the Ministry of Magic.
Related Tour - The Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour
2. Rome: Angels and Demons - Dan Brown
What better way to introduce you to the stunning architecture of Rome, it’s symbolic art and the complex history of the popes than by jumping into a thriller that races through the city to solve a mystery involving a destructive weapon and tensions within the church?
Related Tour - The Official Angels & Demons Tour
3. Florence: The Birth of Venus - Sarah Dunant
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and this novel puts you directly in the world created by the Medici’s, as artists flocked to the city and the merchant classes were torn between God and money. Among them is Alessandro, who must navigate her desires for independence and creativity in the exciting world of 15th century Florence.
Related Tour - Full Day Combo: Best of Florence & Uffizi Gallery Tour
4. Paris: The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown
Paris is brought to life in this conspiracy thriller involving a bizarre murder in the Louvre which pulls symbologist Robert Langdon into another mystery of the church. This time, the puzzle is the story of the Holy Grail and Mary Magdelene with clues hidden in Da Vinci’s paintings, cryptography and the history of the French kings.
Related Tour - Complete Louvre Masterpieces with Mona Lisa & Royal Palace Tour
5. Venice: The Glass Blowers of Murano – Marina Fiorato
You’ll taste the secret atmosphere of Venice in this novel when heroine Leonora Manin starts a new life as a glassblower on the islands of the lagoon. As she builds relationships with the locals, she discovers the story of her ancestor in the 17th century who was closely watched by the sinister Council of Ten in case the secrets of mirror and glass making leave the island.
Related Tours - Murano and Burano Tours
Nothing says vacation more than choosing a book to read as you are transported to another land. That moment when you slip your holiday read into your carry-on as you leave the house is the signal that your adventure has well and truly begun.
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