Why are the northern cities of Europe not as popular?

We all tend to speak about the Mediterranean cities when discussing Europe. It seems that the only country we know about north of Paris is the UK. Now I understand why we are enamoured of beautiful, sun baked towns such as Rome and Madrid, Athens and Barcelona. What I don't understand is, why is there not MORE hype about Amsterdam, Copenhagagen, and Stockholm?

Courtesy of airpportdirecttravel.co.uk

My first guess is that, by no fault of their own, these cities are colder for a longer period in time. Sure, there's a little less time as far as pretty spring, summer and fall visits. I get it. But what about winter? These cisites in the winter may be as beautiful as those "nice" times of the year. My second guess is that no one in the U.S. seems to be of Northern European decent (outside of Germany). This may mean that there are less Americans going to these places to revisit their homeland. But let's face it, the reason there were less immigrants to the U.S. from Nordic countries is that they were stable and beautiful and no one wanted to leave in the first place except for adventure, maybe.

These cities are PRESTINE, everyone. I am talking about barely more than 0 crime, neighborhoods that refelect a picturesque European lifestyle, beautiful fjords and other natural landscapes within a day's excursion. Don't forget the unique foods and beverages the cities have to offer. Some cities like Amsterdam are known to the world as drug havens, but these places are about as dangerous as the original Woodstock. Not to mention, Amsterdam is considered the "Venice of the North" due to its extensive canal system.

Back to beverages: don't forget that Belgium is one of the beer capitals of the world! If you're going to Germany or France, think of making a day or two for gorgeous cities such as Bruges and Brussels. So next time you're thinking about going to Europe, give these destinations their due and research them. You might just find it's the part of Europe you've always heard about and have yet to see.

Tell us what you think of Northern Europe. Maybe you think it's the best part, maybe you "know" that the Mediterranean still rules the continent. Send us your feedback and get a conversation going. We love hearing from you!

Courtesy of Science Blogs