Why go
- Subregion of the European continent.
- Served by Aérodrome de Vendays-Montalivet.
History
Western Europe is the western region of Europe. The region's extent varies depending on context. The concept of "the West" appeared in Europe in juxtaposition to "the East" and originally applied to the Western half of the ancient Mediterranean world, the Latin West of the Roman Empire, and "Western Christendom". Beginning with the Renaissance and the Age of Discovery, roughly from the 15th century, the concept of Europe as "the West" slowly became distinguished from and eventually replaced the dominant use of "Christendom" as the preferred endonym within the area. By the Age of Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution, the concepts of "Eastern Europe" and "Western Europe" were more regularly used. The distinctiveness of Western Europe became most apparent during the Cold War, when Europe was divided for 46 years by the Iron Curtain (1945–1991) into the Western Bloc by the US-led NATO and the Eastern Bloc by the Soviet-led Warsaw Pact between the two global superpowers, each characterised by distinct political and economical systems.
Airports
Where things are
When to go
The warmer, longer-day half of the year is the safest bet for a first visit.
Cooler and quieter, with fewer visitors and better value.
Short days and the coldest weather — check local conditions before travelling.
Getting there & around
Getting there. The nearest airport on record is Aérodrome de Vendays-Montalivet; 3 other airports serve the wider area. Check rail and road links from the tourism sources below.
Getting around. Use the map above to orient yourself; nearby hotels, attractions and places to eat are listed from the live Ultimate data for Western Europe. Local transit details will be added as the guide is expanded.