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The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe
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It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.
Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.
United Kingdom
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With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.
Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.
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Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.
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Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.
Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .
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An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play.
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With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).
Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history .
The Netherlands
Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.
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If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.
Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .
Switzerland
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As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .
This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.
Faroe Islands
It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.
Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .
Czech Republic
If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.
If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .
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27 of the best places to visit in Europe
Sep 17, 2024 • 18 min read
From the amazing streets of Paris in autumn (pictured) to epic islands, here are Europe's best places to visit. Alexander Spatari/Getty Images
There is simply no way to tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, fascinating history, rich culture and dazzling artistic and culinary diversity. From sun-smooched islands to secret corners , there's always somewhere new to discover.
Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw. Who hasn't dreamed of seeing Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s graceful canals, Paris’ Napoleonic splendor, and the multilayered historical and cultural canvas of London? There’s also a huge diversity of natural scenery: rugged Scottish Highlands dotted with glens and lochs; the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence; the coastlines of the Adriatic and Aegean, speckled with thousands of islands. And those are just the highlights.
Some of Europe's most popular spots have felt the effects of tourism in recent years, as increasing visitor numbers have impacted local populations, services and historic sites. But with a little planning and care, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime. Here are 27 of the best places to visit in Europe.
1. London, UK
Truly one of the world’s greatest cities
London is mercurial and endlessly fascinating. You could spend a lifetime getting to know it, then realize the city has gone and changed again. Stretching back from the mighty River Thames, its lush parks and historic districts are crammed with extraordinary sights: royal palaces, towering cathedrals and remarkable museums and galleries. Add some of the world’s top theaters, restaurants , sports venues and shops, and you’ll be very reluctant to leave.
Travelers who want to dive deeper into London will be rewarded by exploring its varied and characterful neighborhoods , taking in the cool clubs of Shoreditch or the picturesque streets of Notting Hill. With more time, tack on a day trip to explore nature in the New Forest, admire the Roman ruins of Bath , or soak up the creativity of Brighton .
2. Venice, Italy
Magical city seemingly floating on water
A sunny winter’s day, with far fewer tourists around, is the perfect time to lap up Venice 's unique and magical atmosphere. Ditch your map and wander the shadowy back lanes of Dorsoduro while imagining secret assignations and whispered conspiracies at every turn. Then visit two of Venice’s top galleries, the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , which house works by many giants of Italian and European art.
In recent years, Venice has struggled under the pressures of mass tourism, and visitors should brush up on how to be mindful while traveling in this gorgeous but fragile city. A new entry fee for day-trippers may inspire people to stay longer, which is one way to get a deeper understanding of this incredible place.
3. Paris, France
Get up close to an architectural icon
Designed as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World Fair), the elegant, iconic Eiffel Tower has become the defining fixture of the Paris skyline. In fact, it’s hard to imagine a city more iconic than the City of Light. From legendary culinary offerings and alluring nightlife to a seemingly endless selection of museums, galleries and flea markets , Paris is a travel dream made real.
Spend your days wandering through the city’s 20 intriguing arrondissements (districts) , or head further afield on a day trip to Monet’s garden at Giverny or Marie Antoinette’s former home at Versailles . Whatever you do, it’ll be a trip to remember.
4. Rome, Italy
Classical ruins mixed with contemporary style
From the crumbling Colosseum to the ancient Forum and the timeless Via Appia Antica , few sights are more evocative than the ruins of ancient Rome . Two thousand years ago, this city was the center of the greatest empire of the ancient world, where gladiators battled and emperors lived in unimaginable luxury. Nowadays, its ancient sites have a haunting mystery; as you walk the cobbled paths, you can almost sense the ghosts in the air.
But don’t miss the city’s contemporary side. Shop for hip handbags or handmade jewelry in Rome’s coolest independent boutiques . Rub shoulders with locals over aperitivo (pre-meal drinks) at trendy bars or check out the street art in neighborhoods such as Ostiense and San Lorenzo . In a city that’s been around for thousands of years, there are always plenty of new treasures to find.
5. Berlin, Germany
Catch the ever-changing zeitgeist
Nearly 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, it’s hard to believe that this most cosmopolitan of cities once marked one of the key frontiers in the Cold War. But reminders of Berlin 's divided past remain. Whether you’re passing the Brandenburg Gate , gazing at graffiti-covered sections of the old Berlin Wall at East Side Gallery or studying the exhibits at the DDR Museum , it’s an essential part of understanding the forces that have shaped Germany’s capital. From the past to the future – be sure to soak up the city's amazing modern touches, like its iconic club culture , unique independent shops and cool neighborhoods .
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia
A spectacular walled city
Dubrovnik 's main claim to fame is its historic city wall , considered among the grandest in the world, which surrounds luminous marble streets and finely ornamented buildings. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the walls are still remarkably intact, and the vistas over the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea are sublime, especially at dusk, when the fading light makes the hues dramatic and the panoramas unforgettable.
The city’s prominent role in the TV series Game of Thrones has caused a massive surge in visitors – and in the number of tours taking people to all the starring spots. But travelers can still get to know the real Dubrovnik by diving deeper into its top attractions and wandering outside of the Old Town.
7. Prague, Czechia
An architectural central European jewel
The capital of Czechia (formerly Czech Republic), Prague is one of Europe’s most alluring and dynamic cities. For all its modern verve, some parts of town have hardly changed since medieval times. Cobbled cul-de-sacs twist and turn, framed by teetering townhouses, baroque buildings and graceful bridges.
If castles are your thing, Prague has an absolute beauty: a 1000-year-old fortress covering around 7 hectares (17 acres) – the world’s largest ancient castle complex. The Old Town is where you’ll find many of the city’s quintessential attractions , but you’ll be rewarded for exploring other intriguing neighborhoods – which also happen to be where you’ll find many of the city's best restaurants .
8. Vienna, Austria
Grand heart of a former empire
The monumentally graceful Hofburg palace whisks you back to the age of empires in Vienna . You can marvel at the treasury’s imperial crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Riding School and chandelier-lit apartments once occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth. The palace, a legacy of the 640-year-long Habsburg Empire, is rivaled in grandeur only by the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn , a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the baroque Schloss Belvedere , both set in exquisite gardens.
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands
World Heritage-listed canals and gabled buildings
To say residents of Amsterdam love the water is an understatement. Take a stroll beside the canals and check out the thousands of houseboats, or take a canal boat ride, and you'll soon understand why. From the water, you’ll notice a whole new set of architectural details, such as the ornamentation bedecking the city's famous bridges. Each time you pass an appealing canalside cafe terrace, mark the location for a later return.
Getting around in Amsterdam is a breeze, making it an ideal city for exploring hip neighborhoods in search of the best things to eat and drink . While there's always plenty to do in Amsterdam , sometimes the best experiences come from slowing down, skipping the tourist sights, and soaking up the city vibe.
10. Budapest, Hungary
Beautiful capital city straddling the Danube
Along both sides of the romantic Danube River, with the Buda Hills to the west and the start of the Great Plain to the east, Budapest is perhaps the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe. Parks brim with attractions, the architecture is second to none, museums are filled with treasures, pleasure boats sail up and down the scenic Danube Bend, Baroque and Turkish-era thermal baths billow steam and the city's nightlife throbs till dawn.
11. Barcelona, Spain
See the genius of a visionary architect
Barcelona is famous for its Modernista architecture, including the iconic buildings of Antoni Gaudí. His masterpiece is the mighty cathedral La Sagrada Família , which remains a work in progress close to a century after its creator’s death. It’s a bizarre combination of crazy and classic – Gothic touches intersect with eccentric experimental flourishes and improbable angles. Even half completed, it’s a modern-day wonder.
Of course, there's much more to the Catalonian capital than its most famous church. Barcelona heaves with tapas restaurants, art museums and history-steeped neighborhoods – not to mention its incredible beaches . The city has been in the spotlight due to the high visitor numbers and the impact on local communities, so make sure you understand the issues before you go.
12. Lisbon, Portugal
Scenic city with soul
The district of Alfama , with its labyrinthine alleyways, hidden courtyards and curving, shadow-filled lanes, is a magical place to lose all sense of direction and delve into Lisbon 's soul. On the journey, you’ll pass breadbox-sized grocers, brilliantly tiled buildings and views of steeply pitched rooftops leading down to the glittering Tagus River. Pause at cozy taverns filled with easygoing chatter, with the scent of chargrilled sardines and the mournful rhythms of fado drifting in the breeze, and toast the city with a glass of Portugal's famous port wine.
13. The Scottish Highlands
Scenic grandeur and echoes of the past
Whether you explore on foot, by rail, or on a thrilling road trip, breathtaking views abound in the Scottish Highlands . From the regal charm of Royal Deeside to the brooding majesty of Glen Coe and the mysterious waters of sweeping Loch Ness , these are landscapes that inspire awe. The region is scattered with fairy-tale castles and the hiking is suitably glorious. Add in the Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and romantic country hotels, and you're guaranteed to forge memories in this unforgettable corner of Scotland .
14. Dublin, Ireland
Pints of Guinness and literary connections
Whether you’re wandering around the leafy Georgian terraces of St Stephen’s Green or getting acquainted with the past at Kilmainham Gaol or Trinity College , you’re never far from a literary or historic sight in Dublin . Then there are the city’s pubs : there are few better places to down a pint than Dublin. You can even make a pilgrimage to the original Guinness brewery . Either way, you’ll surely make a few Irish friends along the way.
15. Florence and Tuscany, Italy
Renaissance charm and timeless romance
The undulating hills of Tuscany , bathed in golden light and dotted with vineyards, sum up Italy’s attractions in a nutshell. Here, picture-perfect hilltop towns vie with magnificent scenery and some of Italy’s best food and wine. Experiencing Tuscany for the first time is one of Europe's great pleasures. Seek out the famed vintages of Chianti and stroll the evocative main square of historic Siena .
Then there’s Florence – aah, Firenze! – home to what Unesco describes as "the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world." The Tuscan capital is packed with blockbuster museums , elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes. Naturally, a city this iconic also heaves with crowds, so make sure you plan your trip around the best times to visit.
16. Copenhagen, Denmark
The cool kid on the Nordic block
Scandinavia is all about pared-back contemporary style – something that the Danish capital has in spades. Home to a thriving design scene, Copenhagen has Michelin-starred restaurants, hipster cafes and bars and swoon-worthy boutiques around every corner. Add in top-class museums and galleries and a 1000-year-old harbor with handsome historic architecture and you have the perfect Scandi city break.
While Copenhagen is known for being expensive, there are ways to budget for your trip and plenty of free things to do in the city. Strolling around and soaking up the atmosphere won't cost you a Danish krone.
17. Andalucía, Spain
Vibrant cities studded with impressive architecture
Andalucía – al-Andalus in Moorish times – is awash with glorious architecture spanning eight centuries of Islamic rule in Spain and all the centuries since. Granada , Córdoba and Seville are the high points of a journey of extraordinary riches. In Granada, the palace complex of the Alhambra comes close to perfection, and is perhaps one of the most impressive works of Islamic architecture anywhere in the world. For many, this is Spain’s signature monument.
18. Ruins of Pompeii, Italy
Ancient city destroyed and preserved by Vesuvius
Frozen in its death throes, the sprawling, time-warped ruins of Pompeii near Naples hurtle visitors 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets and duck into lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters and even an ancient brothel. Then, in the eerie stillness, with your eye on the ominous profile of Mt Vesuvius, ponder the town’s final hours when the skies grew dark with choking volcanic ash. One of the most intriguing experiences in this ancient city is investigating the ongoing excavations, which continue to shed new light on life in 79 CE .
19. Reykjavík, Iceland
The world’s most northerly capital
More than half of the population of Iceland live in Reykjavík – a city smaller than Anchorage, Alaska – but even on the shortest visit you’ll be struck by the quirky character and creativity of the population. Despite being on the northern margins of Europe, on an island sculpted by volcanoes and ice, locals have forged a city packed with captivating art, rich cuisine and energetic nightlife, hosting an epic music scene. Learn about a history stretching back to Viking times and use the city as a base for trips to Iceland’s amazing natural wonders .
20. Provence, France
Gallic charm in the south of France
For many people, the pastoral landscapes of Provence are a French fantasy brought to life. Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, legendary wines, bustling markets and long, balmy evenings, perfect for enjoying the good life. For decades, the villages of Provence have been hot spots for vacationers and second-homers, inspired by a dreamy vision of rustic living.
Seek out the postcard-perfect view of lavender fields and medieval cloisters at the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque or grab an espresso among the students hanging out in Aix-en-Provence . Whatever you do, eating, drinking and living well will surely be on the menu.
21. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Hike, ski and admire these postcard-perfect peaks
The stirring ramparts of the Swiss Alps grace chocolate bar wrappers and muesli packets, but nothing prepares you for the magic of seeing these mountains up close. The most famous summit, the Matterhorn, is a mesmerizing wedge of rock and ice that looms above the timber-chalet-filled village of Zermatt . Gaze at it from a tranquil cafe, hike in its shadow along the tangle of alpine paths above town with cowbells clinking in the distance, or pause on a ski slope and admire its craggy, chiseled outline.
22. Istanbul, Türkiye
Where Europe meets Asia
Serving stints as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities, and an ancient crossroads of civilizations. This is true now more than ever with the growing profile of its main international airport. The historical highlights cluster in the district of Sultanahmet – where you'll find the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , Topkapı Palace and Grand Bazaar – with the vast Süleymaniye Mosque crowning a hilltop in Eminönü.
After soaking up Ottoman sights, dive into the city’s characterful neighborhoods , such as cool Kadıköy, with its coffee shops and independent art galleries, or go antique shopping in Fener and Balat. You can even use Istanbul as a base for day trips to explore the wine region of Thrace or the coastal villages of the Black Sea.
23. Athens, Greece
Monument-strewn capital of Ancient Greece
Greece has ancient monuments at seemingly every turn, but it’s in Athens where this ancient empire's greatest and most iconic monuments stand proud. High on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city, the Acropolis epitomizes the glory of ancient Greece, with its graceful Parthenon and 17,000-seat Theatre of Dionysos . Other impressive ruins littering this vibrant city include the Temple of Olympian Zeus and two agoras (marketplaces) – one Greek, one Roman – mingling with first-rate museums.
When you’ve had your fill of architectural magnificence, fill up on Athens’ culinary brilliance, sampling local delights such as lukumades (crisp dough balls) and souvlaki kebabs. The city is also flush with great beaches , and pine-covered islands, atmospheric ancient sites and rugged hiking trails are only a day trip away . Just be alert to the heat – recent years have seen soaring summer temperatures linked to climate change, leading to closures at major sights.
24. Schloss Neuschwanstein, Germany
Fairy-tale castle in a fairy-tale setting
Rising from Alpine foothills in the heart of Bavaria in southeastern Germany, the 19th-century Schloss Neuschwanstein seems to spring from a child’s dream of a fairytale castle. Its pencil-thin turrets, vertiginous walls and glorious setting make it one of Europe’s most recognizable structures – indeed, it was the prototype for the castle in Disney's Cinderella . Rising near Füssen, the castle is at the southern end of the Romantic Road , making it the perfect stop on a beautiful German road trip.
25. Greek Islands, Greece
Whitewashed Mediterranean villages above a turquoise sea
Wherever you make landfall, the Greek Islands grab your attention and don’t let go. Whether you crave beaches, warm seas, history or nightlife, it's easy to find your own island in the sun. It's fair to say that popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos have suffered under the weight of overtourism, but there are plenty of isles to explore that offer more off-the-beaten-path experiences. Try exploring the lush Ionian Islands or the far-flung Dodecanese . Whichever sun-warmed island you choose, you're in for an incredible experience. Take time to plan the perfect island-hopping adventure and narrow down the islands that are right for you .
26. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
A wild and medieval Irish road trip
There’s nowhere quite like Ireland – and even within Ireland, there's nowhere quite like the Ring of Kerry . This 179km (111-mile) driving route around the Iveragh Peninsula captures all the essential elements of the Republic of Ireland on one memorable circuit. Wild and craggy landscapes frame isolated beaches, evocative ruined fortresses stand sentinel over wave-tossed Atlantic seas, and windswept mountains watch over villages and islands that could be nowhere else on earth but Ireland.
27. Oslo, Norway
Scandinavia’s gateway to the fjords
Oslo is doing everything it can to claim the prize as Europe’s capital of contemporary style, despite facing strong competition from nearby Copenhagen and other Nordic hubs. Oslo's angular Opera House evokes an iceberg in a fjord, public art is a national pastime, and the city’s extraordinary museums span the Viking age to Norway's modern state of contented enlightenment. It's a city to appreciate for its many merits, not merely a stopover on the road to the fjords.
When is the best season to visit Europe?
Europe is a big place – the best time to visit will vary based on the countries you want to see, and your tolerance for heat, cold, and crowds.
Visiting Europe in summer
July and August are undoubtedly the busiest months in Europe, particularly in the most visited countries such as France, Italy, Spain and Greece. In recent years, Mediterranean regions have faced extreme heat and wildfires in the summer months, with popular attractions such as the Acropolis in Athens closing to tourists due to dangerously high temperatures. In France , the south heaves with visitors in the summer, but locals head out on their own summer vacations and many businesses around the country close in August, even in Paris .
Summer can be a great time to visit some of Europe’s cooler, northern regions, such as Scandinavia, where long days and warm temperatures make this a great time for outdoor pursuits – the midnight sun means you can enjoy bright evenings out that last well into the next morning. Across the continent, accommodation prices will be at their highest in summer, and booking well in advance is recommended.
Visiting Europe in spring and autumn
The spring (from April to May) and early autumn (September and October) are both great times to visit Europe, though spring school holidays and Easter vacations can bring crowds, closures and disruptions in many places. Crowds and prices will be smaller than in mid-summer, though destinations such as Italy remain busy throughout the year. Luckily, there are plenty of destinations in Europe that are perfectly suited for an autumn escape or spring break .
Visiting Europe in winter
During the winter months, ski resorts throughout the Alps and other European mountain ranges flood with alpine enthusiasts, and shoppers crowd Christmas markets in major cities, but the cold season can bring closures in spots that depend on summer tourism, including some Greek islands. For a dose of winter sun , many European travelers look to sun-warmed islands such as the Balearics , the Canaries and Malta .
Can I visit multiple countries in Europe during my trip?
With its many land borders, Europe was made for country-hopping – just ask the generations of backpackers and Interrailers who have meandered across it by road, rail and bicycle. How much of Europe you can see in one trip comes down to how much time you have and how packed you want your itinerary to be.
Continental Europe is well-connected by rail, and a resurgence of night trains is making it even easier to get around without the carbon footprint of flying. Travelers can also take the Eurostar train from continental Europe to Great Britain - much less hassle than traveling by plane!
However, be aware of the immigration restrictions that apply to the Schengen Area, which includes most of the countries in continental Europe. If you need to apply for a Schengen Visa, you'll be able to visit multiple European nations within the Schengen Area, but only for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. If you're lucky enough to have a passport from a European Union country, you can travel freely across Europe with few restrictions.
This article was first published Jun 12, 2024 and updated Sep 17, 2024.
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19 Best Countries to Visit in Europe
Written by Shandley McMurray Updated May 3, 2023
Europe is a land frozen in time, highlighted by meticulously preserved buildings and modern amenities. Europe's best countries also feature magnificent mountain ranges, deep gorges, and verdant countryside. This is where trips go to turn into vacations you'll dream about for years.
Active travelers love Europe's extensive attractions . Tourists can ski down the French Alps , kayak in Croatia's Adriatic Sea , hike the Grindelwald in Switzerland , and cycle through the Netherlands . Then there's the food. Yum! It's hard to beat Europe's gastronomic delights.
With so many countries to choose from, it can be hard to decide which to see first. Our advice? Don't stop at just one. Europe offers a slew of fabulous cheap places to visit packed into a relatively small space, so it's easy to visit multiple countries on one trip.
Not sure where to start your sightseeing? Use our list of the best countries to visit in Europe.
The Netherlands
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It's hard to picture Italy without salivating over the thought of its food. This boot-shaped country boasts tomatoes so sweet they taste like candy, pizzas cooked to perfection, and gelato that literally melts in your mouth. Italy is a utopia for gastronomes.
Even more resplendent than its food are the impeccable architecture and cultural masterpieces found in the ancient buildings, squares, and museums peppered throughout Italy's bustling cities and small, picturesque towns.
History abounds in the attractions of Rome (we're talking about visiting the Colosseum and touring the Pantheon ), and its phenomenal town squares (i.e. Piazza Navona , St. Peter's Square , and Piazza Spagna ) are a delight to enjoy.
Florence is home to the photo-worthy landmark attraction, the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio bridge, as well as museums you won't want to miss .
The canals of Venice are romantic and unique, while the massive Il Duomo , one of the top attractions in Milan , will have you gawking, as will the impressive outfits featured in the city's many shops.
The countryside is where you'll find the most authentic Italian experience. From skiing at top resorts to hiking to swimming to eating (of course), the country's beauty envelops visitors, making it hard to leave. The attractions of Tuscany are real winners, transporting tourists back in time with the region's largely untouched walls and towers, while lovely Lake Como offers a glimpse into the lifestyles of the world's elite.
The Amalfi Coast is as pretty as a postcard , which is why its colorful towns are featured on so much tourist kitsch.
Vive la France! Known for its romance, delectable food, art, culture, and natural beauty, this lovely country offers everything you'd ever want in a vacation. France also boasts enough gorgeous places to visit to ensure that every type of traveler will find something to love.
Bask in the sun's rays and catch sight of a celebrity or two on the iconic French Riviera . Let your camera run wild photographing fields blanketed by lavender in pretty Provence .
Travel back in time to the UNESCO-listed islet, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy. Ski down the French Alps in Chamonix , Val d'Isère , or Méribel .
Dine in a café along the Champs-Elysée , visit a museum , climb the stairs of the world famous Eiffel Tower , or stroll hand in hand with your soul mate along the River Seine in the bustling city of Paris .
One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Spain is also one of its best. From its architectural masterpieces to its towering mountain ranges, seaside cliffs, and hilltop villages, your camera will thank you for visiting this magical spot. No wonder more than 89 million tourists visited Spain in 2018, making it the second most visited country in the world.
You'll find plenty to see and do in the country's top cities. The most populated city in Spain, and its capital, Madrid is home to the lovely Crystal Palace and sprawling gardens, as well as elegant plazas.
More elegant and romantic, Seville's soundtrack consists of horses' hooves on cobblestone streets and clanging bells from church towers. Here, you'll find must-see attractions like the spectacular Catedral de Sevilla , the UNESCO World Heritage Site the Real Alcázar , and the expansive Plaza de España .
Big, beautiful, and bustling Barcelona is both energetic and eclectic, featuring architecture that would make Salvador Dali proud ( Casa Mila and the insanely unique Parc Güell are must-sees).
Valencia's top places to visit will soothe your soul with healing sea views, while Costa Brava offers some of the most stunning beaches in Spain .
Don't miss the beautiful attractions of Granada and its famous Alhambra palaces .
Austria is one of those countries that can truly take your breath away. Ringed by the magnificent Australian Alps and peppered with sparkling lakes, this wonderland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.
Austria is also one of the most musical. It's almost impossible to wander through the country's many city streets without catching a snippet of song, especially one composed by famed Austrian, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Born in the attractive city of Salzburg , the former Baroque composer's influence can be felt everywhere (his image is even found on chocolate wrappers).
Wind your way through narrow, twisting laneways in the old town, Altstadt Salzburg (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), enjoy lunch in a courtyard, or visit a museum or St. Peter's Abbey while you're in town.
Vienna is another hot spot of gorgeousness. In addition to intricate palaces (i.e. Belvedere Palace ) and sprawling gardens (i.e. those found at Schönbrunn Palace ), you'll find the fabulous City Hall (Rathaus) and gorgeous Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), among other popular Vienna attractions .
The sparkling town of Linz hugs both banks of the River Danube , making it a perfect spot for exploring both the river and the surrounding countryside.
Graz , the country's second-largest city, is another architectural hub, featuring buildings and ruins that date back to 800 CE. Don't miss the picturesque old town and be sure to climb the Schlossberg (a hill measuring 473 meters and topped with a clock tower), one of the best things to do in Graz .
Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Austria
A Mediterranean masterpiece, the Eastern country of Croatia offers scenery to soothe the soul and fresh food to treat the palate. With friendly locals, hilltop castles, preserved Roman ruins, and a sea the color of sapphires, it's impossible to feel stressed in this lovely archipelago.
Wander the winding laneways within the towering old city walls in the historic city of Dubrovnik , or take the cable car up Srd Hill for the most spectacular view of this beautiful town, dubbed the "Pearl of the Adriatic."
Spectacular Split is one of the most vibrant cities in Croatia and the second largest after the main tourist hub of Zagreb . Both are more than worthy of a visit. The island of Hvar will help you get your beach on; it's been deemed the "sunniest spot in Europe."
Croatia's crowning glory is its perfect position on the Adriatic Sea. Be sure to board a boat at some point to explore the archipelago, especially the charming Elafiti Islands , which can be found northwest of Dubrovnik.
Feeling adventurous? Kayaking and rafting are popular in Croatia, and you'll find plenty of rocky limestone cliffs to jump from.
Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Croatia
Less formally known as Holland, the Netherlands offers visitors a laid-back vacation filled with art, beauty, and a lot of cycling.
Located in the northwest of Europe, the landscape is flat (perfect terrain for a bike) and peppered with iconic windmills and fields bursting with tulips in spring (April and May in particular). The best place to spot them is arguably Keukenhof , also known as the "Garden of Europe." It's located in Lisse .
Amsterdam is one of the best cities to visit in the Netherlands . Despite its somewhat seedy reputation, this canal-laden spot is beautiful and filled with impressive museums (40, to be exact). Don't miss the city's top attractions , the Rijksmuseum , Ann Frank's House , and Van Gogh Museum .
You'll also find cutting-edge, eco-friendly architecture mixed in with the historic structures found in riveting Rotterdam , dainty Delft , and The Hague .
Big cities aren't your only option in the Netherlands. The adorable fishing hamlets located along Lake Ijsselmeer are worthy of a stop, especially Marken , Volendam , and Enkhuizen .
Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands
Bet you've never met a cranky Swede! Known for their gracious nature, the Swedish people are a friendly Nordic bunch. Given their impeccable surroundings — ancient walled cities, sparkling lakes, sun-drenched beaches, and glacier-topped mountains — it's no wonder they're so happy.
Located in the north of Europe, between Norway and Finland , the stunning country of Sweden is the place to visit if you're looking for an amazing view of the Northern Lights. Here, you can traipse through dense forests, canoe along crystal waters, and pitch a tent in an open field.
Those who appreciate avant-garde architecture will be rewarded with some of the world's most intriguing designs in Sweden. The country's most vibrant city is Stockholm , where you'll find the popular Vasa Museum , as well as stylish shops and eateries. Don't miss a trip to Skansen , a large open-air museum depicting life in the 1720s to 1960s.
Gothenburg, Sweden's "second city," is another must-see for foodies (they've got fantastic restaurants) and beach lovers alike.
The smallest European country on this list, beautiful Belgium makes up for its diminutive size with a boatload of charm, not to mention picturesque medieval towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and chocolate that will make your taste buds scream in delight. Did we mention the French Fries yet? Delish!
The country is unofficially divided into two main regions: the French-speaking and pastoral Wallonia in the south and the more cosmopolitan, Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north.
Brussels is a big tourist draw , offering visitors a peek at its most magical historic buildings, like La Grande Place (a.k.a. Gote Markt in Dutch) and Place Royal (a.k.a. Koningsplein). This is also where you'll find eclectic shops, tasty restaurants, and fantastic museums.
Bruges is tiny yet well storied and arguably the country's most beautiful town. Its canals, which are easily accessible by booking a boat cruise, wind their way through the city, offering lovely views of the captivating architecture.
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One of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, Switzerland is more than worth its hefty price tags. Snowcapped mountains burst through the clouds, emerging from lush, verdant fields dotted with sheep (hello, The Matterhorn ).
Expansive lakes (i.e. Lake Geneva ) span the countryside, offering a sparkling welcome to white water rafting, canoeing, fishing, and kayaking enthusiasts. Small villages like Gimmelwald gush storybook charm, captivating even the crankiest of travelers with their quaint shops and melt-in-your-mouth chocolates.
Larger cities like beautiful Zurich , pretty Geneva , lovely Lucerne , and the captial, Bern are packed with attractions, helping visitors get their fill of both culture and beauty in one go. You'll find numerous impressive museums, art galleries, shops, and fine dining within their borders.
There are plenty of exciting things to do in Zermatt. In fact, this is tourists' one-stop shop for winter sports, as well as unbeatable Alpine hikes and climbs.
Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Switzerland
Perhaps the most laid-back of all the countries on this list, Greece is the perfect place to relax, yet it's filled with enough attractions to keep even the pickiest of tourists happily entertained. Azure domes top whitewashed buildings on the country's smaller isles , their doors and gates painted with colors so bright they beg to be photographed.
The sky in Greece is the most luscious of blues, while the sapphire Mediterranean caresses beaches boasting sand and pebbles of different colors — from tan to pink to red. Sunny and always busy Santorini is particularly spectacular, especially at sunset.
Crete is another popular island with inviting coastal towns and mountain villages. Athens is where you'll find phenomenal ancient ruins (like the iconic Acropolis), as well as world-class museums, shops, and restaurants.
Speaking of restaurants, it's hard to top the food in Greece. The freshest of local ingredients are used to create healthy and tasty delicacies teeming with vibrant flavors.
Castles and beaches and mountains, oh my! Portugal has a bevy of gorgeous scenery and spectacular places to visit . Hugging more than 800 kilometers of the Atlantic Coast, this is the place to be for those who love water views.
A visit to the beautiful Azores islands will immediately dissolve your worries. They are an archipelago consisting of nine gorgeous, mountainous isles perfect for diving, surfing, sailing, and whale watching. Nearby Madeira Island is particularly popular with European tourists.
Lisbon is the country's largest city, with a prime location at the mouth of the River Tagus . It is jam-packed with fun attractions , ranging from a historic castle to a state-of-the-art aquarium to beautiful town squares to a hilltop park with an impressive view.
Tomar is also set on the water. Its enchanting cobblestone streets wind around medieval churches, a majestic castle, and other historic buildings along the banks of the Nabão River.
While the Western country of Germany may not be the most romantic European vacation destination, it is dotted with incredible places to visit. Germany's spectacular scenery (we're talking sand dune-lined beaches, thick forests, and rugged mountains) make it a worthy destination for every type of traveler. It is literally filled with stunning places to visit .
Cosmopolitan destinations like the tourist hot spot, Munich , lively city of Hamburg , and energetic Frankfurt offer travelers the historic culture they crave in the form of ancient buildings, monuments, and museums. They also burst with shops and restaurants that serve traditional sauerkraut and schnitzels mixed with more contemporary fare.
The small towns are where you'll find a nice break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These quaint villages are peppered with beautiful remnants of the past. Despite suffering through war, many ancient towers, churches, and houses stand strong, stoically adding to the charm and allure of these rural delights.
Bavaria's colorful towns , Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber , Dinkelsbühl , and Nördlingen will lift your spirits and give your camera a real workout.
It doesn't take long for the U.K'.s largest country, England to charm its visitors. Best visited with an umbrella in hand, this oft rainy isle is one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Hoping to roam through bucolic countryside, frolicking with sheep as you wander over hills and across dales? Head to the green valleys of the enchanting Lake District , a wonderland so lush and fertile, you'll want to pitch a tent and stay for days.
More of a shopper? Head to London, the iconic capital where you'll meet the most modern yet understated styles of each season. You'll also be blessed with an infinite variety of top restaurants and cuisines.
Looking for storied castles? You'll find them aplenty in towns ranging from the large, walled city of York to the smaller village of Leeds to the tiny town of Warwick , which is set upon the picturesque River Avon.
Speaking of small towns in England , that's exactly where you'll want to head if you're in search of fairy-tale villages oozing charm. The impeccable villages of the Cotswolds must be seen to be believed. Named after the honey-colored stone used to build their enchanting homes, this rich land is brimming with culture, and an impressive charm you won't find anywhere else.
Denmark may be small (it's almost double the size of Massachusetts), but boy does it pack a beautiful punch. An environment-loving, friendly country, this Nordic star offers visitors a clean, calm, and beautiful vacation destination. It is also packed with exciting attractions and fun things to do.
Water is never far away, making it easy to relax beachside on the coast of the Baltic Sea or canoe or fish in one of the sparkling lakes and rivers.
Among its 450-island archipelago, you'll find villages dotted with timber homes, perfectly groomed gardens, as well as cities boasting palaces, museums, and amusement parks (like the always-hopping city of Copenhagen , with Christiansborg Palace and Tivoli Gardens ).
The Danish architectural style is hard to beat — from luxurious fortresses like Kronborg Castle to the uber modern National Maritime Museum attraction in Helsingor to the colorful shops and restaurants of Copenhagen's Nyhaven harbor. Museums and Viking history abound in the city of Roskilde .
Worried about getting around? You're more likely to run into bike traffic than car standstills in this eco-friendly country. Cycling is the preferred mode of transportation, especially through the windmill-spotted countryside.
Insider's tip: Make time to visit the breathtaking Faroe Islands .
Iceland is a majestic land sprinkled with some of the world's most captivating scenery and unique tourist attractions . A sparsely populated island, this breathtaking spot has become one of the most coveted of bucket list vacation destinations.
Adventure-seekers visit for its eccentric topography. You can traipse across, through, or around everything from glaciers to fjords to volcanoes to ice caves to waterfalls to mountain ranges.
During the day, visitors can shop, dine, or meet the uber-friendly locals in the country's biggest city, Reykjavik . Head out on a whale-watching tour, take a dip in the Blue Lagoon , or hike through the lava fields of the Hekla volcano .
Be sure to visit Vatnajökull , the largest (and most magnificent) glacier in Europe. At night, especially between September and April, tourists are rewarded with an unbeatable view of the northern lights. While summer tends to be the best time to visit Iceland for many visitors, the country is spectacular year-round.
Little beats the beauty of the lush green fields that blanket the Emerald Isle. This breathtaking island is steeped in history; dotted with bleating sheep; and packed with people so friendly, you'll beg to be adopted.
Add the lively music, endless stunning attractions, bustling cities , and unique things to do in Ireland , and you'll never want to leave.
Mother Nature outdid herself with the spectacular sights along the Ring of Kerry , the rugged Cliffs of Moher, and otherworldly Giant's Causeway (the top tourist attraction in Northern Ireland ). Pack a camera, as you'll want to capture these majestic spectacles for posterity.
Speaking of Northern Ireland, don't miss a visit to its capital, Belfast , where you can wander along the Titanic Quarter , visit the Titanic Belfast museum , and explore the Botanic Gardens . Dublin is unmissable. The music, the culture, the food, the attractions ; there's so much to love about this lively city.
When you've had enough of big city life, it's time to explore the heart of Ireland, its quaint and charming small towns . From the medieval castle in Kilkenny to the Gallous Oratory in Dingle to the vibrant fishing port of Kinsale , there's something for everyone to enjoy. Not surprisingly, these towns are among the many reasons so many people choose to visit Ireland for a weekend getaway .
Ever wanted to spend the night in a Castle? Ireland is famous for its ancient castles, some of which have been converted into luxurious hotels.
Fjords and mountains and lakes, oh my! Norway sure knows how to enchant its visitors. With so many top attractions , it can be tough to choose where to start.
Search for the northern lights or embark on an action-packed vacay filled with hiking, skiing, or white water rafting in scenery so captivating, it will leave you breathless, No matter how you choose to spend your vacation, Norway is a delight.
Not up for that much outdoor adventure? No worries, Osloo, the country's capital , is packed with fun things to do. You can explore museums, visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park , and enjoy a meal (or many) in the best restaurants in Oslo.
Sognefjord is the largest (and arguably most stunning) of Norway's fjords. At 204 kilometers long and 6,905 meters deep, Sognefjord offers plenty of incredible tourist attractions .
Ålesund is another unmissable gem famed for its postcard-worthy setting. In addition to checking out the city's impressive Art Nouveau architecture, walking around the harbor, and visiting the Town Park, there are a slew of interesting things to do in Ålesund .
For those with time to spare, be sure to book a night or two to properly enjoy the attractions of Tromosø . There are plenty of ways to stay entertained in Trondheim as well, and you won't regret checking out the fun things to do in Bergen .
When most people think of Turkey, they picture the Hagia Sophia Mosque or Grand Bazaar in Istanbul and salivate over the thought of Turkish food. This storied country is known for its unique and exciting tourist attractions .
Turkey is also home to top cities like Antalya (famed for its Dunden Waterfall ), beautiful Bursa (site of the remarkable Grand Mosque ), and spell-binding Sanliurfa , where you'll find the lovely Pool of Abraham .
While Istanbul is packed with things to see and do that include the aforementioned mosque and a glittering palace and Hippodrome , it is also home to beautiful parks .
Those hoping to lounge beachside, soaking up stunning views of the Mediterranean, will be pleased with the variety of picturesque islands in Turkey . Bozcaada is laid-back yet luxurious, framed by soft sandy beaches, while Gӧkçeada is a quiet wonderland best visited during the buzzing summer months.
There are numerous plush beach resorts to enjoy, making this an ideal place to spend at least a weekend away. Heading to Turkey in winter ? Great idea. There are plenty of fun (and cheap) things to do at this off-peak time.
One of the cheapest European countries to visit , the tiny Czech Republic is filled with intricate historic monuments, lively music, and tasty food. It's also one of the most beautiful countries in Europe and boasts fun things to do in every season, including winter .
It's easy to see why Prague tops the list of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic . The heart of this picturesque region, this pretty and vibrant city is a must see. Prague is filled with impressive tourist attractions , like Prague Castle , Charles Bridge , and Wenceslas Square , not to mention budget-friendly shops and restaurants. In fact, many of Prague's don't-miss sites are among the best tourist attractions in the Czech Republic .
Prague isn't the only city worth visiting in the Czech Republic; hot spots like Český Krumlov in the south (its castle is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Monument) and Kutna Hora (home to the Baroque chapel, Sedlec Ossuary ) are spectacular. They definitely warrant scheduling a day trip or two .
Head to Karlovy Vary, or Carlsbad as it's also known, for a rejuvenating dip in a thermal spa . Don't miss the 19 th -century Market Colonnade , Museum of Glass MOSER , and Church of St. Mary Magdalene , a few of the other popular tourist attractions in Karlovy Vary .
Not sure where to stay? Prague boasts fantastic deals on numerous hotels and resorts in all sections of the city.
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See Europe on a Budget : Let's face it, travel ain't cheap! Luckily, there are ways to see the world without emptying your pocketbook. Visit these inexpensive places in Europe (we're talking about awesome spots like Prague and Valencia ) or head to these beautiful yet affordable European countries (hello, Bulgaria and Romania ).
Other Unmissable European Destinations : Europe has so much to offer visitors, and our list of the best countries to visit in Europe merely highlights some of its top spots. From charming towns that look as if they've come straight out of a fairy tale to a historic sea fortress in Finland to Italy's best beaches , you'll never want to go home.
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Best countries to visit in Europe in 2024
Explore europe holidays and the best places to visit.
Europe is the number 1 tourist destination in the world, the very large variety of its landscapes, the diversity of its climates and its history make it travellers' favourite place for a holiday . The European continent has more than 50 countries and it is not always easy to make a choice when planning a trip to visit Europe .
Our site is visited by more than 6 million travellers per year, thanks to traffic data and research in recent months we have been able to set up a ranking of the best countries to visit in 2024 .
Whether for a city break in Italy, a nature holiday in Croatia, a cultural trip in France or a beach holiday in Portugal, discover travellers' favourite European countries for a trip in 2024 .
Greece is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe ; it also offers one of the best climates to enjoy the sun all year round. The country ranks #1 most searched countries 2024 .
The beauties and riches of Greece are numerous, the country offers activities for all. From the traditional but not to miss Acropolis tour to romantic sailing cruises along the coast of Santorini or an afternoon scuba-diving to Mykonos , make your choice among the best things to do in Greece .
Our selection of the best beaches in Greece , the most beautiful islands in Greece , the natural wonders, the best things to do in Greece and the best Castles to visit in Greece will help you find your ideal holiday .
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2. Portugal
Portugal is on the podium of the most searched countries in recent months on our site and therefore ranks 2nd among countries to visit in 2023!
Portugal is recognized for the beauty of its landscapes , its gastronomy, its rich history and its magnificent beaches .
Porto Santo (Madeira Islands) and Faial (Azores) were voted among the 20 Best Destinations to visit in 2024 and will be must-see places during your visit to Portugal.
World famous for its wine, Porto is an ideal destination for a city break of a few days. You can stay at Porto Moments Apartments which offers a magnificent view of the UNESCO-listed historical area.
The beaches of Cascais and the Algarve region are perfect for recharging your batteries in the sun. The Vila Alba Eco-Resort hotel is located near some of the best beaches in Europe . If you are nature lovers, be sure to visit the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores . If you are an history buff do not miss to visit the amazing city of Braga !
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Italy is unique in the world. Rome, the capital, was considered the capital of the world for many centuries. This country has had a profound impact on Europe and continues to fascinate travellers from all over the world.
There is not one place in Italy that is not incredibly interesting and beautiful. You can ski in the best ski resorts of Italy . You can see masterpieces in the best destinations of Italy such as Rome, Milan, Florence. You can go off the beaten track and explore the most beautiful castles in Italy or the best hidden gems in Italy such as Alberobello or Sirmione. Do you want to relax? Discover your ranking of the most beautiful beaches in Italy .
From Cinque Terre to Tropea via Pisa, Venice, Bologna, Monte Isola or Palermo, discover the most beautiful places in Italy .
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The assets and beauties of Spain are numerous: the beaches of Tenerife in Formentera, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona , the Guggenheim in Bilbao , the Camino del Rey in Malaga , the most beautiful villages in Spain such as Ronda, Cadaques, Cudillero ...
This country is certainly one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.
Put the most beautiful cities , beaches , castles and the best things to do in Spain on top of your travel bucket list and find inspiration for your next trip. Travel more and spend less by booking your flights , accommodation and best tours in Spain .
Marbella, Spain
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France is the most visited country in Europe ahead of Spain and Italy . Perhaps it is because Paris is the capital of love or because its wines, especially those of Bordeaux , are among the finest and most famous in the world. It may be that travellers prefer the beautiful landscapes of ‘La France’ or perhaps are drawn to its incredible cultural heritage and historical monuments such as the illustrious châteaux of the Loire Valley .
You want to think outside the box? No problem, we have selected for you the best hidden gems of France . Do not waste time and discover the best places to visit in France .
Dordogne Valley, France
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Immerse yourself in millennia of history. Take a dip in the turquoise blue waters of Marmaris and Ölüdeniz. Immerse yourself in the scents of the spices of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. Relax in the thermal waters of Pamukkale. Turkey is unique in the world, incomparable. Take time to discover it and be surprised by the beauty and the richness of this country.
From the Topkapi Palace you can see the Blue Mosque, the Maiden’s Tower, as well as the blue waters of the Bosphorus that surround the Princes Islands. Your journey will take you to Ankara, Bodrum, Marmaris and Oludeniz. You will fly over Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, snuggle up in your cave hotel, see the giant statues of Nemrut Dagi and marvel at the amazing whirling dervishes.
Treat yourself to memories of a lifetime by booking your flights , accommodation , tours and activities in Turkey.
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Croatia is a wealthy country that offers travellers the guarantee of an exceptional holiday. You will probably find there the greatest diversity of landscapes in Europe with forests, countryside, hills, beaches, islands and mountains of a rare beauty.
You will fall in love with this country, its history, its beauty, its charm. You will dive into the pure waters of Croatia and discover its 1,000 islands. You can also venture into the hinterland and discover exceptional hills, mountains and forests.
Croatia is a breathtaking destination. Do a city trip to Zagreb , relax or play sport on its coasts and islands. Croatia is also ideal for green holidays. Have nice walks in its beautiful parks. Enjoy its gastronomy.
Hvar, Croatia
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Germany is one of the most visited countries in Europe along with France, the UK and Italy. This is probably because Germany offers such a diverse and authentic variety of landscapes and destinations.
Germany is the perfect destination for unique experiences in Europe with its magnificent castles , beautiful wild beaches and incredible hidden gems .
Germany is a perfect destination not only for history and nature lovers, but also foodies. Do you expect to drink beer and eat sausage every day? Forget the clichés. Germany is the second European country with the most starred restaurants, just after France. Which German unmissable destinations will you add to your wish list?
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Your discovery of Austria will likely start with a stay in Vienna . But where will you go next? Are you going to limit yourself to discovering the beauties and riches of the Austrian capital or would you like to discover the most beautiful destinations in Austria , its sumptuous lakes, its incredible castles, the must-see destinations as well as the best hidden gems and nature wonders of Austria ?
Discover must-see places as well as off-the-beaten-path destinations and create your trip à la carte by finding inspiration among the best places to visit in Austria .
Hallstatt, Austria
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10. Ireland
You already know a lot about Ireland . The colours of its flag hold no secrets for you, do they? Do you know some of its symbols like the three leaf clover? You've already had a Guinness and Irish Whiskey. You may have even stayed in Dublin or Belfast before. How about going off the beaten track this time?
Are you ready to discover breathtaking landscapes? Do you fancy getting your fill of ions walking along the Cliffs of Moher, or horseback riding on one of Ireland's best beaches ? Exceptional sites like the Giant Causeway, Dark Edges, Kylemore Abbey, Skellig Michael, Portbradden, ranked among the best hidden gems in Ireland await you as well as the best places to visit in Ireland as Kinsale, Belfast, Galway or Cork .
The Dark Hedges, Ireland
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100 Best Places to Visit in Europe – The Ultimate Bucket List
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With so many great options, choosing the best places to visit in Europe can be difficult, from city breaks filled with fascinating history and culture, getaways in nature among breathtaking landscapes and unique natural parks, or the best holiday destinations for a relaxing beach holiday with the whole family.
Venice, Paris and Verona are some of the most beautiful cities for a romantic holiday; Ibiza, Belgrade and Amsterdam promise the best parties and liveliest nightlife, while Riga, Florence and Vienna delight with history and art.
Iceland and the Faroe Islands dazzle outdoor enthusiasts with the most beautiful sceneries, while Croatia and the Greek Islands stand out for their pristine beaches and crystal clear water.
Manchester and Barcelona are some of the best cities to watch a football game in Europe, and for those who want to practice sports, consider Andorra for winter sports, the Azores for watersports and Norway for scenic hikes.
From the Spanish paella and the Italian pasta to the Ukrainian borsch, Europe is also a paradise for the foodies, with extraordinary and diverse gastronomy.
Ready to start planning your next trip?
1 – Venice, Italy
Venice is definitely one of the best places in Europe for a Romantic getaway, with lovely canals, hundreds of bridges and charming alleys, mixed with fascinating history, stunning architecture and a unique lifestyle.
Explore St. Mark’s Square, where the famous Doge’s Palace is located, one of the most visited landmarks in Venice and an impressive Gothic architecture masterpiece.
Next to the Palace, stop by one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe and the most important religious site in Venice, the Basilica of San Marco; and for a glimpse of the whole Venetian lagoon, climb to the St. Mark’s Campanile observation deck.
Cross the Paglia Bridge to admire the iconic Bridge of Sighs, and the Rialto Bridge – the oldest and most famous in Venice – for an overview of the Grand Canal. And, of course, take a boat tour or gondola ride, for a unique viewpoint of the canals!
Don’t miss a chance to explore the lovely islands of Murano, the perfect place to grab a souvenir, or watch a glass-making demonstration; and Burano, famous for its colorful houses.
- Venice tours
See also: Things to do in Venice , Doge’s Palace tickets , Best Venice boat tours , Tourist attractions in Venice , Best places to visit in Italy
2 – Paris, France
Speaking of romantic cities, Paris is a must on every couple’s bucket list. But there’s much more to do beyond an idyllic Seine River cruise, or watching the Eiffel Tower lit up!
From the prestigious Louvre to the acclaimed d’Orsay, Paris has more museums and monuments than one can count. The city itself is a work of art, and a free walking tour or a hop-on hop-off bus tour are the best ways to explore the Arc de Triomphe, the Notre Dame, the Sacré Coeur, and all that Paris has to offer.
For those looking for some unusual things to do in Paris, the Catacombs are worth a visit, and for the football lovers, don’t miss the PSG Experience stadium tour!
With plenty of day trips available, the hardest part is choosing among a delicious tasting in the Champagne region, touring the beautiful châteaux of the Loire Valley, or feeling the magic at Disneyland.
At nightfall, the city gets as exciting as during the day, with vibrant nightlife and many night tours to explore. Stroll through Montmartre or The Latin Quarter, grab a drink at the city’s best bars or attend a show at Lido de Paris or Moulin Rouge!
- Paris tours
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3 – Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of the best places in Europe for those seeking good weather, good food, and exciting history, mixed with lively nightlife – especially at Bairro Alto.
Get lost in the narrow streets and charming alleys of the district of Alfama, the oldest in the city, stop by the Sé Cathedral and admire the views from the S. Jorge Castle.
For the architecture lovers, the Belém district is full of wonders, such as the Belém Tower or Jerónimos Monastery, the most magnificent examples of Manueline style – also known as the Portuguese late Gothic.
While in Lisbon, there are plenty of incredible day trips, such as the university town of Coimbra ; Aveiro, frequently labeled as the Portuguese Venice; or Fátima, the leading pilgrimage site.
However, no trip to Lisbon would be complete without visiting Sintra, the fairy tale city. With enchanting woods and a charming medieval village to explore, the cherry on top is the colorful Pena Palace, one of Portugal’s most renowned tourist attractions.
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4 – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Among the most bicycle-friendly cities in Europe, the charming capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famous for its canals, a fascinating architecture mixture, and great coffee shops.
Immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture with a visit to Anne Frank’s House in the Jewish Quarter and browse through the city’s best museums, such as the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum.
Taking a day trip is always a good idea, especially in a beautiful country like the Netherlands. Visit the medieval town center of Utrecht, the modern metropolis of Rotterdam, or stop by Keukenhof during the spring for a magical glimpse of the tulips fields.
For a unique experience, sail through the picturesque canals on a canal cruise and marvel at the city’s landmarks.
- Amsterdam tours
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5 – Rome, Italy
The capital of the Roman Empire, Rome, has thousands of years of history and culture. It is famous for its stunning architecture, with the main attractions being the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.
Walking around the Eternal City is like visiting an open-air museum, and to check all of the best sites, take a city tour or a hop-on hop-off bus tour.
But there’s also plenty to see indoors, such as the Borghese Gallery, one of the most prestigious museums in the world. For those seeking unusual activities, check the Catacombs of Rome, the underground galleries used as a cemetery for centuries.
Once the sun sets, there’s still fun guaranteed in Rome, with exciting nightlife. Choose from the night tours available to explore the main attractions, embrace the culture and meet locals.
Due to its location, Rome is a perfect city to establish a base and explore the rest of Italy. Before the trip is over, take a day trip to Naples and the sunny Amalfi Coast, marvel at the Renaissance heritage in Florence, or visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hadrian’s Villa or Villa d’Este in Tivoli.
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6 – Tromsø, Norway
Where else in the world can combine the magic of the northern lights with the spectacle of city life? Tromsø, located in Norway, is one of the most unique cities in Europe and is known as the “Paris of the North” for good reason.
From reindeer sledding to restaurant excursions, you can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and urban living. During winter, the skies are illuminated with the aurora borealis. You can hit the slopes and go skiing or head indoors for some excellent shopping and dining. Between November and January is also an ideal window for whale watching.
Come summer, you can stay up all night with the Midnight Sun and explore the city, go hiking or join a cruise on the fjords to catch sight of the Arctic wildlife.
During your visit, don’t forget to soak up the culture. Plenty of festivals run throughout the year, including the Tromsø International Film Festival. You can even dine over a traditional meal with Sami reindeer herders and gain an appreciation for indigenous heritage.
- Tromsø tours
See also: Things to do in Tromsø , Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around the Globe
7 – Vatican City
The smallest country in the world and located inside of Rome, Vatican City is one of the best European destinations for Catholics or those seeking religious and cultural experiences.
Tour the city’s top-rated attractions, such as the Vatican Museums, with one of the world’s largest art collections, including the Sistine Chapel, to admire Michelangelo’s beautiful frescoes, or the St. Peter’s Basilica, to explore one of the holiest and most important pilgrimage sites.
Wander around St. Peter’s Square, a popular gathering point for tourists and book a seat at the weekly Papal Audience, held every Wednesday, because no trip to the Vatican is complete without seeing the Pope.
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8 – Dubrovnik, Croatia
Also known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, the sunkissed Dubrovnik welcomes thousands of tourists every year and marvels them with a unique seafront location and a pleasant Old Town.
Stroll through Cersei’s walk of shame and the Old City Walls on a Game of Thrones tour, that takes the fans across the many filming locations in Dubrovnik, one of the best European cities for TV shows fans.
Visit the top of Mount Srd and soak in the views from the Dubrovnik Cable Car; party at Banje Beach and enjoy many water activities, such as a kayak and snorkeling adventure!
To make the most out of the trip, go on a day trip to explore paradise islands, such as the Elaphiti Islands or Hvar, and pristine beaches in Budva or Makarska.
- Dubrovnik tours
See also: Things to do in Dubrovnik , Best day trips from Dubrovnik , Game of Thrones tours in Dubrovnik
9 – Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean along the African coast, with 8 unique islands to explore. A true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, with mild temperatures, sunny weather, and unspoiled natural attractions.
With plenty of exciting experiences available, Tenerife is the biggest island of the archipelago, home to Spain’s highest peak (also one of the highest volcanoes in the world). Go for a hike at Teide National Park (or take a stargazing tour), meet the animals at Loro Park, and swim with turtles.
Continue the trip with a visit to Fuerteventura, declared by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, highlighting the dazzling landscapes of Timanfaya National Park. Discover volcanic tunnels at Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes, and taste wine at the volcanic vineyards of La Geria.
Stop by Gran Canaria to stroll around Vegueta’s old town and relax at the best golden sand beaches. But the other islands are also worth a visit, at least on a day trip – La Gomera, with the unique Garajonay National Park; El Hierro with more than 40 diving points;
Save some time for La Palma, with the breathtaking La Caldera de Taburiente National Park; Fuerteventura with pristine beaches and La Graciosa with unique underwater flora and fauna.
- Canary Islands tours
See also: Things to do in Lanzarote , Things to do in Gran Canaria , Things to do in Tenerife , Things to do in Fuerteventura
10 – London, United Kingdom
London is at the top of the bucket list for most travelers, and it’s not hard to figure out why: one of the world’s most acclaimed and cosmopolitan cities, with over two millennia of history, rich in arts, science, architecture, politics, and lively nightlife.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with so many great things to do in London, to ensure the best sites such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and London Eye are visited, take a free walking tour or hop on a bus tour.
To relax from the fast pace of the city, stop by the Kew Gardens, meet the animals at London Zoo, visit one of the city’s many museums or catch a musical show.
Consider also taking a day trip to the prehistoric Stonehenge, the spa town of Bath, or the charming town of Windsor – with the main attraction being the Windsor Castle.
And of course, one cannot mention London without a Harry Potter tour and the chance to experience the magic Harry Potter Studio.
- London tours
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11 – Barcelona, Spain
Artistic, festive, and fun, Barcelona combines a rich cultural heritage with golden sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.
With the Sagrada Familia attracting visitors worldwide, Park Güell and Casa Batlló are also among the city’s highlights. Still, with so much to discover, it might be worth checking the Barcelona attractions passes to ensure the best deals and visit as many monuments as possible.
A walking tour and a hop-on hop-off bus tour are among the best ways to explore Barcelona, but the cherry on top is the helicopter tour for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view.
Stop by La Boqueria to taste some of Barcelona’s finest treats, and for the football fans touring the Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona, is a must.
After checking all of the best tours Barcelona has to offer, it’s always a great idea to explore the surroundings on a day trip. Whether snorkeling on Costa Brava or skiing in Andorra, there’s something for every tourist!
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12 – Munich, Germany
With some of the best breweries and Biergartens in Germany, famous for the annual Oktoberfest celebrations, but also with a rich history, architecture, and delicious cuisine, Munich is a major European destination.
Grab a drink at Englischer Garten; explore the Old Town and see the Marienplatz or take a food tour at Viktualienmarkt; visit Nymphenburg Palace, the largest Bavarian palace, check all of Kunstareal District museums and cheer on Bayern Munich at Allianz Arena.
The whole Bavaria region is also worth exploring, so save time for a day trip to visit the magical Neuschwanstein Castle, the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or ski at Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze.
- Munich tours
See also: Things to do in Munich , Best day trips from Munich
13 – Monaco
The sophisticated and glamorous city-state along the French Riviera, with mild temperatures and home to more millionaires than any other region in the world, Monaco is an excellent destination during the entire year and has plenty of fun things to do.
See the sharks at the Oceanographic Museum, stroll through Palais du Prince, take a walking tour around the charming Old Town, or catch a world-class performance at Opéra de Monte-Carlo.
For car enthusiasts, try a luxury car driving experience and get behind the wheel of a Lamborghini or a Ferrari.
Considering booking the trip during the F1 Grand Prix to catch one of the most thrilling and top-rated races in the world and, of course, try your luck at the best casinos – especially the Monte-Carlo.
- Monaco tours
See also: Things to do in Monaco
14 – Oxford, United Kingdom
Home to England’s oldest university, Oxford is a historical wonderland to explore, and the highlights include the Ashmolean Museum and the Museum of Natural History.
Oxford is one of the best European destinations for scholars and literature, and cinema enthusiasts, with places like Alice’s shop and Alice’s Window at Christ Church to explore.
Plenty of famous authors held academic positions at Oxford University, such as Lewis Carroll (Alice in Wonderland), J. R. R. Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings) and C. S. Lewis (The Chronicles of Narnia), and only one hour drive away, it’s possible to explore Shakespeare’s birthplace at Stratford-upon-Avon.
Discover the most fabulous filming locations on a Harry Potter or Downton Abbey tour, from the Divinity School and Bodleian Library to the Cogges Manor Farm and St Mary’s Church.
- Oxford tours
See also: Things to do in Oxford
15 – Amalfi Coast, Italy
One of the most beautiful places in the world , attracting thousands of tourists every year, Amalfi Coast is the perfect spring/summer getaway, with a stunning coastline, breathtaking scenic drives and lovely villages to explore.
Start the trip in the port city of Salerno and climb to the top of Castello di Arechi to admire the unique views 270 meters above the gulf. Continue with Vietri sul Mare to appreciate as much art as possible and the typical colorful ceramics.
Stop by the small fishing village of Cetara and taste the delicious seafood before continuing to Maiori and soaking up some local culture and cuisine, or exploring the hidden gem of Tramonti.
Try Minori’s pasta factories, visit the 18th century Church of Santa Trofimena and walk along the Path of Lemons. For some jaw-dropping views, stop by Terrazza dell’Infinito in Ravello.
Head to the hills and check the oldest town in Amalfi Coast, the incredible medieval-style village of Scala, and proceed to the photogenic Atrani, before reaching the famous and energetic Amalfi.
Marvel at the magical Emerald Grotto in Conca dei Marini, before heading to Furore and crossing Fjord of Furore off the bucket list. Continue to Praiano and Positano, the perfect villages to relax by the superb white sand beaches, without forgetting the famous Path of the Gods hike.
- Amalfi Coast tours
See also: Things to do on the Amalfi Coast , Best Amalfi Coast boat tours
16 – Dublin, Ireland
Capital of Ireland, the famous Emerald Isle, thousands of tourists are attracted to Dublin for the legendary Guinness Storehouse, the Irish beer and lively pubs, but the city has much more to offer and has inspired so many artists with its unique beauty.
From James Joyce’s “Ulysses” to the filming location of “Braveheart”, also visit the deers at Phoenix Park, and tour the renowned landmarks, such as the Dublin Castle and the Trinity College.
When in Dublin, make sure to save time for a day trip and explore the stunning surroundings – any Game of Thrones fans out here? There are plenty of Game of Thrones tours from Dublin available, stopping by the prominent filming locations in the area.
- Dublin tours
See also: Things to do in Dublin , Best day trips from Dublin , Guinness Storehouse tickets price
17 – Florence, Italy
Florence is easily among the best European destinations for art and history lovers. Birthplace of the Renaissance and one of the wealthiest cities during the medieval era, Florence became a top-tier artistic, commercial and political center.
Stroll through the massive Piazza del Duomo, which feels like an open-air museum, and climb to the Duomo’s dome for the most impressive view of Florence.
Discover the home of the Medici Royal Family at Pitti Palace and head to the gothic masterpiece of Palazzo Vecchio.
Florence houses some of the best and most visited museums in Italy, and to make the most out of it, consider grabbing a combined ticket to the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery.
Besides Florence, the whole Tuscany region deserves to be explored (make sure to not miss our list of things to do in Tuscany ). Take a day trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the medieval towers of San Gimignano or relax at the spa town of Saturnia.
- Florence tours
See also: Things to do in Florence , Best day trips from Florence , Florence Duomo tickets price , Florence Duomo tours , Palazzo Vecchio tickets price , Pitti Palace tickets price , Accademia Gallery tickets price , Uffizzi Gallery tickets price , Best museums in Florence
18 – Santa Claus Village, Finland
This amusement park located in Rovaniemi, in the Lapland region, is one of the best places to visit in Europe with children, but grants a whole lot of fun for the whole family.
The main attractions at the Santa Claus Village are the Arctic Circle, a white line painted across the park letting visitors know when they’ve officially entered the Arctic region.
In the heart of the village, the Santa Claus Office can be found, open since 1992 with the world’s nicest man welcoming thousands of visitors from all over the world in his office.
Due to its latitude, this charming village and its surroundings are perfect for some northern lights hunting. This stunning natural phenomenon will make the Santa Claus Village even more magical.
- Rovaniemi tours
See also: Things to do in Rovaniemi
19 – Milan, Italy
Busy and cosmopolitan, Milan is home to the major Italian fashion brands and offers a perfect mix of art and historical architecture, with impressive modern skyscrapers.
One cannot go to Milan without visiting one of the most sacred landmarks and among the most prominent Christian sites globally, the Duomo. Next to it, there’s the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the perfect place for window shopping across some high fashion boutiques.
Book a ticket to Santa Maria Delle Grazie, for the unique opportunity to admire Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, one of the most acclaimed works from the creative genius.
Milan is considerably quick to visit, making the perfect opportunity to combine it with a day trip to one of the nearby stunning lakes, such as Lake Como and Lake Garda; or a mountain adventure at the Swiss Alps or the Dolomites.
- Milan tours
See also: Things to do in Milan , Best day trips from Milan , Duomo Milan skip the line tickets , Santa Maria Delle Grazie tickets price , Last Supper Milan last minute tickets
20 – Meteora, Greece
Literally meaning “suspended in the air”, Meteora is an impressive area in Greece with unique rock formations shaped by the rain, wind and other natural phenomenons for millions of years.
But the most astonishing thing about the area is the Orthodox monasteries housed on top of the rocks, assembling one of the world’s largest and most important Orthodox monasteries complexes.
Before the monasteries were built, there were caves – such as the Theopetra Cave – inhabited for over 50.000 years and occupied by monks seeking refuge during the Turkish occupation.
During the 19th century, steps were carved into the rocks, but back in the days, the top was only accessible by ropes and retractable ladders, making it even more mind-blowing and worth a visit.
- Meteora tours
21 – Krka National Park, Croatia
Just one hour away from Split, along the Krka River, is one of Croatia’s best natural wonders, the Krka National Park.
Intended for scientific, cultural, and educational purposes, recreational and touristic activities quickly gained popularity among the visitors.
Visit one of the most preserved and unaltered ecosystems, with exceptionally rich flora. Even though it’s no longer possible to swim there, it’s still worth a visit to the Skradinski Buk, an incredible natural pool with a set of waterfalls.
Set aside one full day to explore the park and the footpaths, and consider taking either a sightseeing or boat tour.
- Krka (town) tours
22 – Bologna, Italy
The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region and world-famous for some of the most delicious pasta dishes, Bologna is one of the best places to visit in Europe for the foodies.
Try as many Tagliatelle al Ragù Bolognese as possible, and consider a food tour to taste the best cured meats, sausages, and cheeses across the city’s popular markets, such as the Quadrilatero Old Market and Mercato Delle Erbe.
Between food tastings, climb the Bologna Towers, once used by the wealthy families for defensive purposes. Wander around Bologna’s main square, Piazza Maggiore, and find the hidden canals at Finestrella di Via Piella.
- Bologna tours
See also: Things to do in Bologna
23 – Brussels, Belgium
Home to the European Parliament and known as the capital of Europe, along with world-class beer, delicious chocolate and waffles, mixed with rich history, architecture and museums, make Brussels a traveler’s dream.
Start exploring at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the center of Brussels, and don’t forget a visit to the Atomium.
To check all of the iconic landmarks like the Parc du Cinquantenaire and the Palais Royal, consider either a bike or a bus tour, and stop by the world’s largest parliamentary visitor center, the Parlamentarium.
- Brussels tours
See also: Things to do in Brussels
24 – Berlin, Germany
Famous for its world-class museums and for being one of the most iconic European cities, Berlin combines turbulent history, high technology, and culture with authentic German pubs and Biergartens.
For the most breathtaking views of the city, visit the TV Tower and the German Parliament Building, also known as the Reichstag, and climb to its dome.
Consider a walking tour to learn about history at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and what’s left of the Berlin wall; walk across the Brandenburg Gate, and stroll through the main landmarks, such as the Alexanderplatz.
- Berlin tours
See also: Things to do in Berlin , Best free walking tours in Berlin , Reichstag Dome tickets , Berlin TV Tower tickets price
25 – Pompeii, Italy
Speaking of turbulent history, just 30 minutes away from Naples is a major UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited archeological sites in the world, the city of Pompeii is one of the best places to visit in Europe for history lovers.
Destroyed by Mount Vesuvius’s eruption, the quick burial of the Roman city allowed its preservation for centuries and its excavation provided unique information about life in the ancient world.
The Archaeological Park of Pompeii is definitely worth visiting and there are plenty of tours departing from nearby locations, such as the Amalfi Coast villages. There’s also the possibility to combine it with a climb to Mount Vesuvius.
Among the unmissable places to check are the Basilica, the Forum, the House of Faun and one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters, the Amphitheatre of Pompeii. Get a skip-the-line ticket and start exploring right away!
- Pompeii tours
See also: Pompeii tickets price , Best Pompeii tours
26 – Andorra
This small country, located by the eastern Pyrenees, between Spain and France, is one of the best winter destinations in Europe when it becomes a ski and snowboard paradise.
Among the fun things to do in Andorra are plenty of ski areas, such as Pas de la Casa, Vallnord, and Grandvalira.
Andorra la Vella – the capital – is also worth checking, with the largest spa center in Europe, the magnificent Caldea, fed by mineral-rich thermal waters.
This is also an excellent destination for beautiful hikes and mountain biking experiences throughout the entire year. Enjoy a getaway in nature, amid lakes and mountains, with trails for all levels – such as the Tristaina Lake Trail.
- Andorra tours
27 – Manchester, United Kingdom
Manchester is one of the UK’s major creative hubs, with outstanding nightlife, lovely Victorian-era architecture, and a renowned sporting industry.
An excellent destination for sports lovers, start the trip with a tour of the two main stadiums, the Old Trafford, home of Manchester United, and Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City; and check out the National Football Museum.
With a thriving arts scene, there’s plenty to explore indoors – at the Manchester Art Gallery or The Whitworth – but also outdoors, on a memorable street art tour.
And the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down. Catch a performance at Manchester Opera House, which has hosted major musicals like the Phantom of the Opera; or see a show at one of Europe’s largest indoor arenas, AO Arena.
- Manchester tours
See also: Things to do in Manchester
28 – Madrid, Spain
Welcoming millions of visitors every year, the stunning capital of Spain, Madrid, promises a trip full of exciting things to do and unforgettable memories.
Start with a glimpse of the Spanish Royal Family life at the Royal Palace of Madrid and check the Almudena Cathedral nearby. Consider joining a free walking tour and exploring the unique districts, such as Barrio de las Letras or La Latina - and even a Money Heist’s filming locations tour.
With some of the finest European museums housed in Madrid, marvel at the greatest masterpieces from Goya, Reubens, or El Greco at Prado Museum, and Pablo Picasso’s Guernica at Reina Sofia Museum.
Due to its central location, Madrid is the perfect base for exploring other Spanish gems, such as the impressive medieval castle in Segovia, the wine region of Ribera del Duero, or the lively university city of Salamanca.
- Madrid tours
See also: Things to do in Madrid , Best day trips from Madrid , Best tourist attractions in Madrid , Royal Palace of Madrid tickets price , Reina Sofia Museum tickets price , Prado Museum tickets price , Madrid free walking tours
29 – Azores, Portugal
One of Europe’s best-kept secrets and often compared to Hawaii, the subtropical archipelago of Azores is a hidden gem in the Atlantic ocean. With nine inhabited islands, this is one of the best destinations for outdoor lovers and those seeking a nature retreat.
With mild temperatures and incredible coastline, Azores are a paradise for watersports enthusiasts. Step away from the shore and embark on some diving adventure or whale and dolphin watching.
Explore the beautiful trails and soak in the views of the Sete Cidades Caldera or Boca do Inferno viewpoint in São Miguel island; hike Mount Pico in Pico Island, Monte Brasil in Terceira, or Fajã Grande in Flores and spot many lakes, waterfalls, and breathtaking landscapes.
Also, in São Miguel, stop by Furnas Valley to check the geothermal wonder of Lagoa das Furnas, immerse in the hot springs of Terra Nostra Garden, and taste the unique Cozido das Furnas, a local stew made from meat and vegetable, slowly cooked underground with the hot springs steam.
- Azores tours
See also: Things to do in the Azores
30 – Loire Castles, France
Once the extravagant retreats of the French kings, designed for entertainment and enjoyment purposes, today, the fairy tale castles of the Loire Valley are one of the most fascinating European destinations.
With tours for all kinds of budgets, this dreamy multi-day trip easily reached from Paris must be on everyone’s list – the most challenging part is choosing which ones to visit, among so many great options.
The glorious and beautiful decorated Château of Chambord is one of France’s most famous castles; originally a fortified tower, Château de Villandry stands out for the marvelous Renaissance gardens.
With stunning views of the Loire River, Château d’Amboise might be small but equally worth visiting; Château du Clos Lucé, the official residence of Leonardo da Vinci between 1516 and 1519; and the list of the best Loire Valley Castles goes on!
- Loire Valley tours
See also: Best Loire Valley Castles to Visit from Paris
31 – Lake Bled, Slovenia
One of Slovenia’s most popular tourist attractions, with clear turquoise waters and a stunning tiny island with a church in the middle, Lake Bled is perfect for a summer getaway.
Easily reached from Ljubljana, the visit to Lake Bled can also be combined with Vintgar Gorge, another of Bled’s natural wonders.
Adventure on the lake on a boat ride, kayaking, or take a dip in the swimming area. For some land activities, hike the Ojstrica and Mala Osojnica loop trail.
The medieval Bled Castle is also worth visiting, sitting atop a cliff 130 meters above the lake, with stunning views – especially at sunset – and even a unique dining experience. Tasting the typical Bled Cream Cake called Kremšnita is a must for those with a sweet tooth.
32 – Mallorca, Spain
The sunny jewel of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca is one of the best European summer destinations and among the most popular Mediterranean islands.
Explore its spectacular coastline and relax at the most pristine white sand beaches of Cala Vella and Es Trenc Beach, or adventure on a snorkeling tour and explore the underwater wonders.
Wander around Palma de Mallorca Old Town, stop by the magnificent Palma Cathedral and delight yourself on a tapas tour.
Mallorca offers breathtaking landscapes, and hiking Serra de Tramuntana mountain is a must. However, don’t overlook the stunning underworld of Cuevas del Drach and Caves of Hams.
- Mallorca tours
See also: Things to do in Mallorca
33 – Cinque Terre, Italy
A popular Italian tourist destination, the coastal villages of Cinque Terre offer stunning beaches, photogenic colorful houses, thrilling hikes and superb cuisine.
Monterosso al Mare is the biggest of the five villages and the ultimate beach destination. Vernazza is famous for the colorful houses along the small harbor, with the castle on top of the hill, quickly becoming the most photographed spot in the region.
Riomaggiore, famous for delicious wine and olive oil, is connected to Manarola through Via dell’Amore, the most romantic footpath with incredible sea views.
Last but not least, stop by the oldest and smallest villa, Corniglia. Surrounded by lovely vineyards, stop by Saint Mary’s Terrace and soak in the views.
- Cinque Terre tours
See also: Best Cinque Terre boat tours , Fun things to do in Cinque Terre
34 – Faroe Islands
Tucked between Iceland and Norway, bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, the Faroe Islands offer one of the best and most unique sceneries in Europe, and its popularity is quickly rising.
Explore Lake Sorvagsvatn and its optical illusion, with an angle where it looks like the river is floating above the ocean; marvel at the beautiful Mulafossur Waterfall in the village of Gasadalur and snap a picture of the iconic Drangarnir.
Home to thousands of Puffins, visit the Mykines island to meet these adorable birds. With more sheep than humans, you’re most likely to encounter these fluffy inhabitants during the trip.
Despite the remote locations, exploring the Faroe Islands on a road trip is very easy, especially with the underwater tunnels connecting them.
35 – Krakow, Poland
One of Poland’s oldest cities and the second-largest one, there are several reasons to visit the historical Krakow.
Start by wandering around the charming old town and let this UNESCO World Heritage site transport you back to middle age.
Explore Wawel Royal Castle, one of Poland’s most important cultural sites, the largest medieval square, Rynek, and tour Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter.
Just a few minutes away from Krakow, save the last day for a tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau – which can be emotionally draining, but full of remarkable stories that deserve to be remembered.
- Krakow tours
See also: Things to do in Krakow
36 – Pisa, Italy
Worldwide famous for the leaning tower and for being the birthplace of Galileo Galilei, Pisa is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway.
The city’s highlight is Piazza dei Miracoli, where it’s possible to explore the main landmarks – the Pisa Cathedral, Pisa Baptistry, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
It’s also worth strolling through the River Arno, walking along the shopping street, Borgo Stretto, and checking Pisa’s second main square, Piazza dei Cavalieri.
Save at least one full day to explore the surrounding area and make the most of your Tuscany trip, admiring the Renaissance city walls of Luca, the modern Livorno, by the Ligurian Sea, or the enchanting Florence.
See also: Leaning Tower of Pisa tickets , Things to do in Pisa
37 – Malaga, Spain
In the sunny Spanish Costa del Sol, showing the best Andalusia has to offer, Malaga mixes paradisiac beaches, diverse museums, vibrant nightlife and delicious tapas.
With a rich history, explore the Alcazaba and marvel at the views from the ancient Gibralfaro Castle.
The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, find plenty of its wonderful works at the Picasso Museum or join a walking tour and pass across the artist’s childhood home.
Sunbathe at the best Mediterranean beaches, from the famous Playa la Malagueta to the less crowded Playa Peñon del Cuervo.
- Malaga tours
See also: Things to do in Malaga
38 – Bran Castle, Romania
One of Europe’s most famous castles, perched atop a hill, the Bran Castle is commonly known as Dracula’s home.
Built during the 12th century at Transylvania and Wallachia’s border, used for defensive purposes against the Ottoman Empire, providing safe passage between the regions and contributing to their economic development.
The site gained popularity for matching the castle described in Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula, even though the Irish author never visited Romania.
Welcoming thousands of visitors per year, it houses a private museum dedicated to Queen Marie’s art and furniture collection, richly ornating the rooms.
- Transylvania tours
See also: Best castles in Europe
39 – Kravica Waterfall, Bosnia and Herzegovina
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the large Kravica Waterfall by the Trebižat River is one of the country’s most precious jewels and best-kept secrets, with its popularity still rising.
Open from May to October, with 25 meters high, this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the area has much more to offer, such as a peaceful picnic area and a small cafe.
During the hottest months, the best part of the visit is diving into the lake’s clear waters. There are kayaking tours through the river available for those wanting to explore a little more.
40 – Keukenhof gardens, Netherlands
The world’s most extensive flower garden, the Keukenhof is one of the best places to visit in Europe during the spring and witness this once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing 7 million tulips bloom.
Rent a bike and pedal around the park or take a relaxing boat tour, a visit to the Keukenhof gardens is also an excellent program for the whole family, let the kids join a scavenger hunt throughout the gardens or pet some furry friends at the petting zoo.
Attracting millions of visitors each year, the garden is easily reached from Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
See also: Keukenhof Gardens tickets price
41 – Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a dream destination with diverse architecture, from the gothic wonder of Church of Our Lady before Týn to the modern and creative Dancing House; outstanding museums, and vibrant nightlife.
Start with a walking tour to check the city’s main sites, from admiring the outstanding Old Town and seeing the famous Astronomical Clock, to the iconic Prague Castle.
Cross the Charles Bridge – possibly on a ghost tour, and learn at the various museums, from the Museum of Communism to the Apple Museum.
Immerse in the local culture and attend a Czech Folklore Show or get the time of your life at a locally-led pub crawl.
- Prague tours
See also: Things to do in Prague , Prague Castle tickets price , Prague free walking tours
42 – Athens, Greece
Overflowing with legends and stories from the Greek Empire, ranking among the sunniest cities in Europe, Athens’s rich history mixed with modernity makes it a complex and extraordinary destination.
Explore the main historical landmarks, such as the iconic Acropolis – and climb there for the city’s best views; marvel at the Parthenon temple’s architecture and visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
After checking all monuments and museums, relax by the white sand beaches at Athens Riviera, or consider a day trip to make the most of this Greek adventure.
- Athens tours
See also: Things to do in Athens , Best tourist attractions in Athens , Best day trips from Athens , Acropolis tickets price
43 – Versailles, France
Formerly a royal residence, the magnificent Versailles Palace is one of the world’s most visited palaces nowadays and can be easily reached from Paris.
Several tickets are available, some of which also include the Estate of Trianon, Versailles Gardens, and even the musical fountain show, to make the most of the visit – and if the tickets are sold out, check how to grant last-minute Versailles Palace tickets !
With a massive area and over 2000 rooms, it might be worth considering a guided tour to understand its history. One of the palace’s highlights is the Hall of Mirrors, with 357 mirrors.
- Versailles tours
See also: Versailles tickets price , Best Versailles tours , Best places to visit in France
44 – Porto, Portugal
Often considered one of the best European destinations, Porto has outstanding beauty mixed with delicious gastronomy and incredible nightlife.
Explore the old town and its iconic landmarks, from the Sé do Porto Cathedral to the colorful Largo da Pena Ventosa square, and the spectacular views from Miradouro da Vitória.
While in Porto, one can’t overlook the chance to taste one of the world’s most famous wines, the delicious Francesinha, and catch a fado show.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Porto, from observing the inspiration behind Harry Potter at Gomes Teixeira Square to the fantastic Douro Valley cruises, or exciting day trips to the Peneda-Gerês National Park and the Minho region.
- Porto tours
See also: Things to do in Porto
45 – Stockholm, Sweden
A small city where the land meets the sea, with a rich Viking history, exciting music scene, and plenty of islands to explore on a kayaking trip, Stockholm is an excellent destination for a quick city break.
Admire artifacts at the Royal Palace and wander around the colorful Gamla Stan – which translates to Old Town.
To get deeper into the city’s history, visit the 17th-century warship at Vasa Museum. With the Vikings being one of Sweden’s most famous ancestors, several tours pass through the most important sites, such as the ancient settlement of Granby.
Delight in modern Swedish cuisine and enjoy Stockholm’s nightlife, whether it is by catching a show at Avicii Arena, seeing a ballet at Royal Swedish Opera, or joining a pub crawl.
- Stockholm tours
See also: Things to do in Stockholm
46 – Riga, Latvia
Riga is the liveliest among the capitals, with outstanding Art Nouveau architecture, exuberant nightlife, and stunning landscapes.
Stroll around the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with most of Riga’s monuments, such as the iconic House of the Blackheads, the St. Peter’s Church, or the Central Market.
Learn about the Latvian War of Independence at Freedom Monument, and get transported back to Medieval times at the Swedish Gate.
Try some Riga Black Balsam – made from pure vodka – and party at the many pubs and bars.
See also: Things to do in Riga
47 – Granada, Spain
Granada is an excellent choice for a city break: one of the most iconic Andalusian destinations, famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful Islamic architecture, delicious tapas, and exciting flamenco shows.
Perched atop a hill, find the impressive Alhambra fortress and marvel at the views from the Alcazaba Tower. There are plenty of Alhambra tickets available, some of which also combine the visit to Generalife.
Check the Royal Chapel of Granada, explore the unique Albaicín district, and explore the Moorish-styled Alcaicería. For a remarkable sunset, stop by San Nicolas Viewpoint.
With a rich Arab heritage, save some time to relax at a traditional hammam spa or tour the best-preserved Arab baths at El Bañuelo.
- Granada tours
See also: Things to do in Granada , Alhambra tickets price
48 – Kiruna, Sweden
As the northernmost city in Sweden, Kiruna is well-situated for all of your Arctic adventures. Whether you’re journeying here to witness the aurora borealis or stay the night in the famous Ice Hotel, Kiruna will expand your horizons.
Head to the Abisko National Park and immerse yourself in the alpine landscape. Here, you can watch the northern lights come out, go hiking or practice your photographic skills.
For a classic Swedish experience, put on your snowsuit and go dog sledding! Keep your camera on hand to capture the once-in-a-lifetime ride. This is one activity the kids won’t soon forget. If you’re looking for more of an adrenaline rush, you can traverse the terrain on a snowmobile.
To get a taste of local culture, you can join a city tour that includes dining out on street food. Savor the Arctic cheese and reindeer and moose meat in a traditional tipi!
- Kiruna tours
See also: Things to do in Kiruna
49 – Frankfurt, Germany
Once among the most significant medieval cities in Germany, most of Frankfurt was destroyed during the Second World War. Nowadays, it perfectly blends modernity and history, with an impressive skyline, rich museums, the Goethe-Haus, and Anne Frank’s first home.
Look out for the city’s oldest building, the 15th-century medieval Eschenheim Tower, contrasting with Financial District’s opulent skyscrapers – where the city gets its Mainhattan nickname from.
Explore the lively Römerberg and soak in the views from the top of the Frankfurt Cathedral observation tower. Cross the Eiserner Steg bridge and stroll through the scenic Mainkai walk while marveling at the Main river.
Famous for its sausages, stop by Kleinmarkthalle to grab a traditional wurst at Metzgerei Schreiber, and accompany it with some apple wine.
- Frankfurt tours
See also: Things to do in Frankfurt
50 – Capri, Italy
Located in the Gulf of Naples, with an outstanding landscape and delicious cuisine, there’s a lot to explore in Capri.
Check the world-famous Piazzetta di Capri, the island’s center and its liveliest area, and try some ravioli capresi at the local restaurants.
Book a boat tour in Capri and adventure on its stunning turquoise waters and marvel at the Arco Naturale and Blue Gotto. Relax by the Gardens of Augustus and admire its views.
Visit the dreamy Villa San Michele and, of course, sunbathe at Capri’s best beaches such as Marina Grande, the best one for swimming, and the famous Bagni di Tiberio.
- Capri tours
See also: Best boat tours in Capri
51 – Greek Islands
From the worldwide famous dreamy white villages of Santorini to the unique pink sand of Elafonisi Beach in Crete, the Greek Islands are a piece of heaven in the Mediterranean and definitely worth visiting.
In Crete, the largest of the islands, stroll around the Venetian Harbour and explore Chania ’s lovely Old Town, sunbathe in Falasarna, and marvel at the historical Knossos Palace.
Continuing to one of the finest islands in the Aegean Sea, Rhodes, explore the ancient ruins of Lindos Acropolis, snorkel in secluded coves, and wonder at the natural reserve of the Butterflies Valley.
Home of Hippocrates, Kos has a rich history and unique landscapes to explore. Continue with Mykonos with a lovely old town and vibrant nightlife, making it one of the best greek islands for partying.
With jaw-dropping turquoise waters, stop by Porto Timoni Beach in Corfu, snorkel in one of the finest Blue Lagoons in the world, and visit the distinctive Cape Dastris cliffs.
On the best European island for a honeymoon, the charming Santorini, watch the most romantic sunsets at Oia and swim at the unique Red Beach with volcanic red sand.
And of course, there’s much more to explore, considering Greece has over 200 islands. Enjoy the dreamiest beaches, embrace its rich history and try the delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
See also: Things to do in Rhodes , Things to do in Kos , Things to do in Santorini , Things to do in Crete , Things to do in Corfu , Things to do in Mykonos , Things to do in Paros , Things to do in Naxos
52 – Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Croatia’s oldest and largest natural park, with almost 300 km², Plitvice Lakes, is one of the best places to visit in Europe and among its most extraordinary natural wonders.
Its primary attraction is the crystal clear lakes, which only cover 1% of this enormous park. With a total of 16 main lakes connected through stunning waterfalls, even though they look enchanting, swimming is prohibited.
With incredible fauna and flora to admire, adventure on the park’s hiking trails, or rent a boat and row in Kozjak lake. The park turns into a white wonderland during the winter, and skiing is among the most popular activities.
- Plitvice Lake tours
53 – Seville, Spain
Among the most famous cities of Andalusia, with world-famous flamenco shows, glorious architecture, and delicious tapas, the sunkissed Seville is filled with fun things to do.
With Christian and Moorish influences, explore the stunning Real Alcázar of Seville, and continue to the Seville Cathedral & La Giralda, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral.
Climb to the unique Setas de Sevilla and rent a rowboat at Plaza de Plaza de España. And for the Game of Thrones fans, there are a couple of filming locations to visit.
To make the most of your trip, there are plenty of day trips available, from the historical Italica, the natural wonder of Doñana National Park, the unique city of Ronda, to the paradise beaches at Zahara de los Atunes.
- Seville tours
See also: Things to do in Seville , Best day trips from Seville , Real Alcazar of Seville tickets price
54 – Belgrade, Serbia
World-famous for its vibrant nightlife and parties, Belgrade has something for everyone – from spectacular galleries and architecture to the bustling streets and best bars.
Visit Belgrade’s largest park, Kalemegdan, and find the old citadel at the Belgrade Fortress. Admire Serbia’s major Orthodox Church, the Church of St Sava, and stop by the Nikola Tesla Museum.
After absorbing all of the city’s rich and turbulent history, embrace its reputable nightlife, with great indoor clubs and taverns during the cold months, and riverside venues for the warm months.
- Belgrade tours
See also: Things to do in Belgrade
55 – Trolltunga, Norway
Translated to “troll tongue”, Norway’s most famous rock formation and one of the most photographed in the world, Trolltunga, is perched on the side of a fjord, over 1000 meters above the sea.
The 14 km hike starts by the Ringedalsvatnet lake and takes about 8-12 hours, depending on the experience level. Despite the challenging trail, take the time to enjoy the journey and marvel at the breathtaking Norwegian landscape.
56 – Ibiza, Spain
A Spanish oasis in the Mediterranean, the island of Ibiza is one of the best places to visit in Europe during the summer months.
With an outstanding coastline, take a boat tour and cool down by the island’s incredible beaches, from Cala Comte, the most famous one, the calm turquoise waters of Cala Bassa, to the hippie vibe of Cala Benirràs.
Wander around the fortified Old Town, with labyrinth streets and the best views over the harbor.
And what most visitors come from: go party – from plenty of boat and pool parties to join, to the world’s most famous beach clubs and the best party venues, there’s always fun granted in Ibiza.
- Ibiza tours
See also: Things to do in Ibiza
57 – Geneva, Switzerland
Near the French border, the city of Geneva is the headquarters of the United Nations in Europe, with the impressive Palais des Nations.
Explore the charming Old Town, see the Flower Clock at the lovely Jardin Anglais and visit the city’s incredible museums such as the Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum.
By the margin of Geneva Lake, admire one of the world’s tallest water fountains, Jet d’Eau, and explore the lake and the surrounding cities on a boat tour.
And while in Switzerland, taste as much chocolate as possible!
- Geneva tours
See also: Things to do in Geneva
58 – Sofia, Bulgaria
Less touristy than the nearby European capitals, Sofia is famous for the massive Saint Alexander Nevsky Patriarch’s Cathedral, the royal Vrana Palace, and the 10th-century Boyana Church.
Stroll through the pedestrian Pirotska Street, stop by its excellent shops and cafes, or grab a souvenir at the Central Market Hall.
Catch a worldwide famous folklore show or a performance at the Sofia Opera and Ballet, and embrace the city’s lively nightlife.
- Sofia tours
See also: Things to do in Sofia
59 – Ljubjana, Slovenia
The charming capital of Slovenia by the margin of the Ljubljanica River, one of Ljubljana’s most iconic attractions is the Ljubljana Castle perched atop a hill, in the middle of the city.
Cross the Dragon Bridge – with the dragon being the city’s symbol and protector – explore the beautiful Old Town, with the lively Prešeren Square, and finish by relaxing at the large Tivoli Park.
For some alternative activities, stop by the Metelkova Art Center, the city’s cultural and artistic hub, with performances, exhibitions, and a lot of incredible street art.
- Ljubljana tours
See also: Things to do in Ljubljana
60 – Copenhagen, Denmark
Famous for being Hans Christian Andersen’s birthplace and the little mermaid sculpture, this small Scandinavian city has a lot to offer to its visitors.
With magnificent Danish cuisine and the famous Tivoli Gardens amusement park, Copenhagen attracts visitors worldwide.
Shop at Strøget, Europe’s largest pedestrian streets, wander around the city’s Old Town, and admire Nyhavn’s colorful architecture through a canal cruise.
Delve into Copenhagen’s rich history and culture with a visit to Christiansborg Palace and the many museums – such as the National Museum of Denmark.
- Copenhagen tours
See also: Things to do in Copenhagen
61 – Mont Saint Michel, France
Easily reached on a day trip from Paris to Normandy, the magnificent Mont Saint Michel is one of France’s most remarkable medieval gems.
Welcoming pilgrims since the 8th century, this small island with the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel perched at the top is one of the most unique places to visit in Europe.
Take the time to explore the medieval village, admire the ancient defense walls and climb to the North Tower observation deck, for an outstanding view of the bay.
- Normandy tours
See also: Best Normandy tours from Paris , Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris – Price & Tips
62 – Helsinki, Finland
By the shore of the Gulf of Finland, the charming Helsinki delights those who visit it with stunning sea landscapes, landmarks and delicious Nordic cuisine.
Take the ferry to one of the world’s largest sea fortresses, Suomenlinna, once a substantial naval base. Today, not only one of Finland’s most fantastic attractions but also home to 900 inhabitants.
With a great diversity of attractions, visit Temppeliaukio Church, an ancient church carved into a rock, the 19th century Helsinki Cathedral and the orthodox Uspenski Cathedral.
Explore the city’s interesting museums, from the art pieces at Kiasma and Ateneum to the Design Museum. Save also some time to grab a souvenir at Helsinki’s Market Square or get the adrenaline rushing at Linnanmäki amusement park.
- Helsinki tours
See also: Things to do in Helsinki
63 – The Blue Eye, Albania
The Blue Eye, a natural water spring pool, source to the Bistricë River, is one of the most unique places to visit in Albania.
Easily reached upon a 35-minute drive from the city of Sarandë, the Blue Eye dazzles everyone with its turquoise crystal clear waters, surrounded by a dense forest.
Divers have explored at least 50 meters, but its total depth is still uncertain. Even though swimming in these mysterious waters is prohibited, marvel at this incredible natural phenomenon and watch the bubbles rising to the surface.
- Sarandë tours
Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Europe
64 – Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Famous for its iconic castle perched atop a hill and the medieval old town, Edinburgh’s culture-rich city and artistic is one of the most incredible places to visit in the UK.
Enjoy the best panoramic views from Calton Hill or hike the 2.4-mile trail through the ancient volcano up to Arthur’s Seat.
Explore the city’s greatest museums, such as the National Museum or the National Galleries of Scotland, and visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the former residence of Scotland’s queens.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Edinburgh, from visiting some of Outlander’s filming locations, to taking this opportunity to explore more of Scotland’s beauty, with a day trip to Loch Ness and the Highlands.
- Edinburgh tours
See also: Things to do in Edinburgh , Best day trips from Edinburgh , Edinburgh Castle tickets price , Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets price
65 – Bratislava, Slovakia
Not the typical European capital, easily visited in one weekend, the lovely Bratislava offers plenty of significant landmarks to explore.
Explore the city’s charming Old Town, cross the Michael’s Gate and visit the fairy-tale Bratislava Castle.
Admire the art nouveau of The Blue Church, admire the views from the historical Devín Castle and stroll through Bratislava’s best museums.
Save also some time to soak in the local culture, from catching a play at Slovak National Theatre to trying the city’s best cafes and lively bars.
- Bratislava tours
See also: Things to do in Bratislava
66 – Mycenae, Greece
Located in eastern Peloponnese, Mycenae, what was once one of the Greek civilization’s major centers, is today one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.
Quickly visited on a day trip from Athens, with buses running between the two cities, explore the kingdom of the legendary Agamemnon, commander of the Greek forces in the Trojan War.
Cross the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the fortified town, and visit the Treasury of Atreus, where it’s allegedly the tomb of Agamemnon.
Also, stop by the Archaeological Museum and marvel at the impressive exhibits and artifacts excavated at the site.
- Peloponnese tours
67 – Salzburg, Austria
A worldwide famous music center, from the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart to the internationally acclaimed annual Salzburg Festival and the greatest operas and orchestral concerts, Salzburg is one of the best cities to visit in Austria.
Relive the iconic Sound of Music with several tours passing through the movie’s filming locations – including tours departing from Vienna and Munich, if you’re only planning to take a day trip.
While in the city, explore one of Europe’s biggest medieval castles, the Hohensalzburg Fortress, wander around Mirabell Palace’s gardens, and admire most of the city’s landmarks at the Old Town, including Salzburg Cathedral and the lively Getreidegasse shopping street.
- Salzburg tours
See also: Things to do in Salzburg , Best Sound of Music tours in Salzburg
68 – Rhine Falls, Switzerland
The largest waterfall in Europe, the massive Rhine Falls are one of the best places to visit in Switzerland, located on the border between Schaffhausen and Zurich.
A great attraction all year round, but the true power of the Rhine Falls is visible during the summer, with the water impressively flowing at 600,000 liters per second.
Just 40 minutes away from Zurich, it’s an excellent destination for a day trip. Start by exploring the lovely villages by the river and marvel at nature’s beauty from the multiple viewing platforms.
For an even more memorable experience, consider taking a boat cruise if visiting between spring to fall.
69 – Oslo, Norway
Frequently overlooked compared to its neighbors, the city of Oslo deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list, with plenty of fun activities available.
For the history lovers, stop by the Viking Ship Museum and wander around one of Norway’s most impressive Renaissance buildings, the Akershus Fortress.
For those looking for outdoor activities, join a Fjord sightseeing cruise and marvel at the unique landscape, adventure in some hiking in Nordmarka or go skiing at Oslo Winter Park.
Explore the charming Old Town and stop by the main shopping area, Karl Johan street. Tour the Aker Brygge neighborhood, catch a concert at the Oslo Opera House, or relax at a typical Scandinavian floating sauna.
See also: Things to do in Oslo
70 – Blue Lagoon, Iceland
One of Iceland’s most famous attractions, the unique Blue Lagoon, is the perfect way to relax on a day trip from Reykjavik – and multiple tours are available, making it very easy to access.
With a unique milky blue shade (due to the high silica concentration in the water), this insta-worthy destination is a great option all year round, with an average temperature of 39 °C at the geothermal pools.
Just remember to book the tickets in advance, considering its broad popularity.
See also: Things to do in Reykjavik , Best day trips from Reykjavik
71 – Corsica, France
Immediately located above Sardinia , perfectly mixing French and Italian culture, bathed by the warm Mediterranean waters, the island of Corsica is a great European destination for the summer months.
With Corsica’s stunning sandy beaches with crystal clear water, spend the holidays sunbathing and relaxing at the famous Porto-Vecchio or the secret Petit Sperone Beach.
Explore the rich underwater fauna and flora on a diving or snorkeling tour; and adventure through the Bavella Needles or the epic GR20 hiking trail and marvel at Corsica’s landscape.
Take the time to stroll through Bastia Old Harbor, visit the lovely villages of La Balagne, Pigna or Sant’ Antonino, and delight with the best Mediterranean food, it’ll surely be an unforgettable trip.
- Corsica tours
See also: Things to do in Corsica , Best boat tours in Corsica , Best islands to visit in Europe during Summer
72 – Canyon Matka, Republic of Macedonia
Less than a 30-minute drive from Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, the impressive Canyon Matka is a popular day/half day trip for locals and tourists alike.
Covering about 5.000 hectares, this unique nature getaway offers plenty of outdoor activities, from renting a kayak to taking a boat tour.
Despite the unique landscape, one curiosity about this place is it holds Macedonia’s oldest artificial lake, made in 1938.
With several medieval monasteries and 10 caves, including Vrelo Cave, one of Europe’s deepest underwater caves, it’s one of the best places to visit in Southeast Europe.
73 – Belfast, United Kingdom
The largest city in Northern Ireland and its capital, Belfast, is famous worldwide for being where the RMS Titanic was built.
The Titanic legacy is still solid these days; take this opportunity to learn more about its history at the Titanic Belfast museum and explore the Titanic Quarter.
Just one hour from Belfast lies the Dark Hedges, one of Game of Thrones’ most iconic filming locations. Consider also combining it with a trip to the unique Giant’s Causeway.
During the weekends, stop by the St. George’s Market to taste some local specialties, and don’t forget to visit Belfast Castle.
- Belfast tours
See also: Things to do in Belfast
74 – Palermo, Italy
The lively city of Palermo, in the heart of the Mediterranean, has so many Palaces, churches and landmarks to explore, no wonder why it’s one of Italy’s major cultural hubs.
Start by the iconic Cathedral of Palermo and explore its complex history, then climb to the rooftop for a bird-eye view of the whole city.
Continue to the 9th century Norman Palace and admire the impressive details of the Palatine Chapel, mixing Greek, Arabic and Latin styles, and exhibiting majestic mosaics.
Sunbathe in the best white sand beaches in Sicily, from the famous Mondello Beach to the natural reserve of Isola delle Femmine.
Make the most of your trip with a day tour from Palermo, and explore the remarkable Valley of the Temples, the ruins of Segesta and Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano.
- Palermo tours
See also: Things to do in Palermo , Things to do in Sicily
75 – Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw is a city of contrasts, from the Warsaw Barbican, one of the remaining historic fortifications, to the views from the 30th-floor terrace at the Palace of Culture and Science; it perfectly blends the past with the modern days.
Explore the colorful Old Town, one of the main historical attractions, have a glimpse of the Polish monarch’s lives both at the Royal Castle and Wilanów Palace.
Delve into the city’s history at the Warsaw Uprising Museum, catch a show at Grand Theatre, one of the most famous opera houses in Europe and embrace Warsaw’s lively nightlife on a Polish vodka tour.
- Warsaw tours
See also: Things to do in Warsaw
76 – Vienna, Austria
Once the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna is still Austria’s most populated city and one of the best summer destinations in Europe, with plenty of festivals and outdoor activities.
Famous for its ties to Mozart and Beethoven, Vienna is often referred to as the city of music; take this opportunity to catch a classical concert at Peterskirche, Eschenbach Palace, or Musikverein.
Among the most popular landmarks in Vienna is the Schönbrunn Palace, filled with history and immense gardens to explore. Other palaces worth visiting are the Hofburg Imperial Palace, currently home to Austria’s president, and Belvedere Palace, with an impressive art collection.
To absorb all of Vienna’s rich history, consider joining a free walking tour, led by local guides. But don’t overlook the rest of Austria’s wonders, and save some time for a day trip – whether it is to Wachau Valley or Lake Neusiedl, this country won’t disappoint.
- Vienna tours
See also: Things to do in Vienna , Best day trips from Vienna , Vienna free walking tours
77 – Golden Horn Beach, Croatia
Located in Brac Island, even though not as famous as Hvar and Korčula, lies one of the best beaches in Croatia, the Golden Horn Beach – locally known as Zlatni Rat or Rat Beach.
Bathed by the Adriatic Sea, the stunning white sand beach got its name from the peninsula’s unique arrow-shaped formation of sand, and its crystal clear waters promise to marvel anyone who visits it.
Easily reached on a day trip from Split, this paradisiac beach is the perfect place to sunbathe, scuba dive, and try many watersports such as jetski or windsurfing.
See also: Things to do in Split , Best day trips from Split
78 – Lyon, France
When people think about French destinations, Lyon is not often what comes to mind, but there are plenty of reasons to visit it, from the world-class gastronomy to its architecture and landmarks.
The Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, Lyon’s first indoor market, is a mandatory stop for the foodies. Along with St. Antoine Market and La Croix Rousse Market, there’s no shortage of delicious local meals to try.
In the heart of Lyon, stop by the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste to marvel at the Gothic architecture, and take a walking tour around the Vieux Lyon District.
For those visiting during the summer, catch the Nuits de Fourvière, an arts and music festival at the Roman theaters, that promises an unforgettable experience.
See also: Things to do in Lyon
79 – Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
When it comes to places to visit in Europe, the Balkans are still gaining popularity, but Sarajevo deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.
While exploring this budget-friendly European destination, stop by the Baščaršija historical market, admire the 16th century Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque and soak in the views from the Yellow Bastion.
However, Sarajevo requires a historical context to understand better the city, with the siege of Sarajevo, the longest in modern warfare, still so recent (1992-1996).
Visit the Sarajevo Tunnel, also known as Tunnel of Hope, built during the siege to allow food, supplies, and humanitarian aid into the city; and check the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Sarajevo tours
See also: Things to do in Sarajevo
80 – Bordeaux, France
Worldwide famous for its vineyards, the cosmopolitan city of Bordeaux is one of the best places to visit in Europe for wine lovers.
After checking La Cité du Vin, embrace the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the Roman Palais Gallien to the Medieval Gates; gothic cathedrals among baroque palaces and more historical monuments than one can count.
Stroll through the iconic Place de la Bourse square, check Bordeaux’s remarkable museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, the oldest one, and catch a performance at the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux.
Explore historical chateaux during the day and, for the ultimate fairytale experience, consider spending the night in a castle.
- Bordeaux tours
See also: Things to do in Bordeaux
81 – Madeira, Portugal
Worldwide famous for Cristiano Ronaldo’s home, the subtropical island of Madeira is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Europe.
Along the African coast, with warm temperatures during the entire year, this is one of the best places to explore rainforests, hike, and enjoy a getaway in nature.
From the Vereda do Areeiro trail, the glass bottom Cabo Girão viewpoint, or watching the sunrise at Pico Ruivo, every spot offers a more breathtaking view than the other.
After all the hiking, cool off at the unique Porto Moniz’s volcanic swimming pools, with crystal clear waters, while marveling at the Atlantic ocean.
Try the Monte Sledge toboggan ride, one of Madeira’s most unique and fun attractions, sliding down the streets on a basket; admire the traditional Santana houses and drink the famous Poncha.
- Madeira tours
See also: Things to do in Madeira
82 – Alps
Europe’s most extensive mountain range, stretching through 8 countries, from France to Slovenia, the Alps are worth visiting for its unique landscape, from crystal clear lakes to dramatic mountains.
In the Italian Alps, one of the most popular attractions is the Dolomites, with the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo and its 10 km loop trail, or the beautiful Lago di Braies.
The alps’ higher mountain, Mont Blanc, can be found in the French Alps. The charming Chamonix village, surrounded by mountains, is the place for those looking for a relaxing getaway – and home to one of the best ski resorts in Europe for those looking for a bit of adrenaline.
From hiking to winter sports, the cherry on top of a trip to the Swiss Alps is the scenic Glacier Express 8h ride, from Zermatt to St. Moritz. The unforgettable panoramic train ride is the most comfortable way to travel across the alps and admire its landscape.
In Germany, the Alps can be seen in the Bavaria region, and the best place to admire its higher peak is by the Eibsee lake. The obvious choice to admire the Julian Alps in Slovenia is Lake Bled, but the trails at Triglav National Park are also worth exploring.
The Alps can also be visited in Austria, Monaco and Liechtenstein; choose from skiing and snowboarding to hiking or just relaxing surrounded by nature, and there’s the recipe for a memorable trip.
83 – Vilnius, Lithuania
Charming Lithuania’s capital, filled with history and a strong Jew heritage, Vilnius was once Europe’s largest Jewish center. Consider starting with a free walking tour around the Old Town and Jewish Quarter or the artistic district of Užupis.
Check the 15th century St. Anne’s Church, with its stunning Flamboyant Gothic style, and climb to the Three Crosses Monument for the city’s best views.
There’s plenty to learn about Vilnius’ rich history for those into museums, from the dark Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, built in a former KGB headquarters (with a prison where death penalties were executed), to the exhibitions at the Contemporary Art Centre.
- Vilnius tours
See also: Things to do in Vilnius
84 – Stonehenge, United Kingdom
The prehistoric Stonehenge, located in Wiltshire, is one of the UK’s most famous landmarks and easily reached on a day trip from London – taking about 2 hours.
Most of Stonehenge’s fame drifts from the fact that no one knows what those mysterious stones were used for, and there is no lack of theories, from astronomical studies to pagan ceremonies. Still, the most likely one is that it once was a burial ground.
Welcoming millions of visitors per year, the best time to visit it (for fewer crowds) is during weekdays and either in the early morning or sunset.
See also: Stonehenge tours from London
85 – Postojna Cave, Slovenia
What says “once in a lifetime experience” more than taking an underground train through a karst cave in Slovenia?
With millions of years of history, carved by the Pivka River, the Postojna Cave is one of Slovenia’s most beautiful natural wonders and lies 46km from Ljubljana.
Save an hour and a half for the cave tours, including the cave presentation by a local guide and the train ride. The tours are also wheelchair accessible and suitable for all kinds of ages.
After marveling at the cave’s 24 km of underground passages and massive halls, accompanied by the magical sound of the water dripping from the stalactites, stop by the world’s largest cave castle, the medieval Predjama Castle.
86 – Budapest, Hungary
With the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest is one of the most photogenic cities in Europe, and a great budget-friendly capital to visit.
Start in the Buda side, exploring the historic Buda Castle, and continue to Fisherman’s Bastion, by the stunning Matthias Church, with the best views over the river and the city.
Cross the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to the Pest side of the river, stop by the Shoes on the Danube Bank and join a free walking tour through the Jewish Quarter.
With rich mineral waters, a trip to Budapest wouldn’t be complete without trying the famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért.
After recharging the energies, consider taking a day trip to the lovely little town by the Danube Bend, Szentendre, or the largest lake in central Europe, Lake Balaton.
- Budapest tours
See also: Things to do in Budapest , Best day trips from Budapest , Hungarian Parliament tickets price , Budapest free walking tours
87 – Isle of Man
Between England and Ireland, the small Isle of Man, bathed by the Irish sea, inhabited since 6500 BC, has plenty of history to discover and fun things to do.
The Manx Museum is a must for museum lovers, with unique artifacts from the Island’s Celtic and Viking past.
Delve into Isle of Man’s history at one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the world, Castle Rushen, and consider checking the Peel Castle as well, built by the Vikings.
Sports fans? Plan the trip during The Isle of Man TT, for one of the world’s most thrilling motorcycle races.
And for those looking for a getaway among nature, climb the Snaefell Mountain or walk to the Fairy Bridge. The Isle of Man has something for every kind of traveler.
88 – Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Welcoming about 1.5 million visitors per year, the Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most impressive attractions in Germany, easily reached on a day trip from Munich.
Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the castle looks straight from a Disney movie. In fact, the resemblances are not a coincidence, as it served as inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Considered one of the most photographed buildings in the world, check the many viewpoints and get the best shots of it – including the famous shot of the castle atop of the hill, from the Queen Mary’s Bridge, also known as Marienbrücke.
Even though it’s not allowed to photograph inside the castle, it’s also worth taking a tour and exploring its magnificent rooms. Remember to book the tickets in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the high season.
See also: Neuschwanstein Castle tickets price
89 – Durmitor, Montenegro
Montenegro is still a hidden gem compared to other European countries, but the Durmitor National Park is a pretty solid reason for it to be added to everyone’s bucket list.
Home to Europe’s largest and deepest canyon, go rafting in the Tara River, or cross the 365m Đurđevića Tara Bridge and admire this green oasis ready to be explored, standing 170m above the ground.
Take the trail to Bobotov Kuk and admire Montenegro’s highest peak views, or check the 18 glacial lakes spread through the park.
The Durmitor National Park is also perfect for some canyoning, mountain biking, or simply enjoying a relaxing nature retreat with a picnic by the lake.
Consider the 1 km zip line at Extreme Zipline Tara, for those looking for some extra adrenaline, reaching a maximum speed of 120 km/h.
90 – Malta & Gozo
A tiny archipelago bathed by the Mediterranean, Malta is located between Sicily and Tunisia, with warm temperatures during the entire year, making it worth visiting even in December for a warm winter break.
Perfectly blending culture with outdoor adventures, visit the Megalithic Temples of Malta, built by the Neolithic inhabitants and among the oldest temples in the world.
Walk along the city walls of the sunny capital, Valletta, admire the interior of the 16th century St. John’s Cathedral, and look out for some Game of Throne’s filming locations around the island.
Get away from the tourist crowds and admire Mdina’s old streets, swim in the crystal clear waters of the Blue Grotto in Qrendi or the St. Peter’s Pool in Marsaxlokk, and take the whole family to Popeye Village.
Off the main island, stop by Gozo to explore its Ancient Cittadella and marvel at the dramatic coastal formations in Dwejra; or snorkel in Comino’s blue lagoon.
- Malta tours
See also: Things to do in Malta , Best boat tours in Malta & Gozo
91 – Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Moving on to the land of fire and ice, encompassing Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, the Vatnajökull National Park is a destination for the adventurous.
From hiking to snowmobiling or even kayaking in a glacier, Vatnajökull National Park is a paradise for outdoor lovers and promises a memorable trip.
For those visiting during wintertime, explore the park’s impressive Ice Caves (that melt during the spring).
See also: Best things to do in Iceland
92 – Tallinn, Estonia
The charming capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is the country’s major industrial, cultural and financial hub, mixed with a rich history, beautiful architecture and stunning landscapes, making it one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Europe.
Start by exploring the Old Town, one of the world’s best-preserved medieval towns, stroll through its cobblestone streets and try the local restaurants and coffee shops.
From the orthodox Alexandre Nevsky Cathedral, built in a magnificent Russian Revival style, to the historical Toompea Castle, currently housing Estonia’s parliament, most of the attractions can be found in the city’s center.
To explore its surroundings, visit the Kadriorg Palace, built in the massive 70 hectares, Kadriorg Park; or climb to the 21st-floor observation deck at Tallinn TV Tower.
During the summer, when the days get longer, and the pop-up bars start to appear, relax by the coast with a drink in your hand.
- Tallinn tours
See also: Things to do in Tallinn
93 – Brighton, United Kingdom
With the nickname of London-by-the-Sea, just one hour away from London and with a stunning coastline, the popularity of Brighton among the Londoners spread through the whole world, and the city became famous for its culture, artsy vibe and lively entertainment.
Get a panoramic view 140 meters above the ground from the British Airways i360, enjoy the sun at the Brighton Palace Pier, or learn about the city’s history at the fabulous Royal Pavilion.
With more independent shops than one can count, from the best boutiques to vintage stores, explore the Brighton Open Market and the iconic North Laine to grab a souvenir and satisfy your shopaholic side.
- Brighton tours
See also: Things to do in Brighton
94 – Þingvellir National Park, Iceland
Also known as Thingvellir National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the ultimate Icelandic experience, filled with natural wonders.
Home to one of the best places to scuba dive in the world, and the only one where it’s possible to swim between two tectonic plates, the Silfra fissure. Or walk between them at Almannagja.
Take also some time to hike through the park’s multiple trails, admiring the park’s landscape, especially to Öxarárfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s main attractions, or check the horseback riding trails.
For history lovers, theÞingvellir National Park is also home to the world’s oldest parliaments, Althing, founded in 930.
95 – Champagne, France
Also known as the Champagne wine region, this historical province is famous worldwide for its champagne production. The Champagne Trail is the best way to introduce wine enthusiasts to the most prestigious certified wineries.
The best time to visit the Champagne is between April and October, with the busiest season in September, when the grapes are harvested. Take the time to tour vineyards, and don’t overlook the smallest houses for a more authentic and personal experience.
But the region has much more to offer besides tasting the best sparkling white wine in the world. Stop by Reims Cathedral and visit the place where French kings were crowned or visit the Archbishop of Reims’ palace, Palace of Tau.
- Champagne tours
96 – Zurich, Switzerland
Even though it’s considered one of Europe’s most expensive cities, Zürich has a unique charm, with colorful architecture perfectly bending with the lake to create one unforgettable scenery.
Travel back to the medieval times at the Old Town and delve into Switzerland’s finest museums, from the FIFA World Football Museum for the sport’s lovers to the unique Beyer Clock and Watch Museum.
Admire the mountains aboard the Funicular Rigiblick or take a boat tour around the moon-shaped Lake Zürich.
And to enjoy the trip to its fullest, consider taking a day trip, with plenty of fun options available, from the mountain village of Grindelwald to the medieval town of Stein am Rhein, or even visiting one of Europe’s tiniest countries, Liechtenstein.
- Zürich tours
See also: Things to do in Zurich , Best day trips from Zurich
97 – Verona, Italy
Among the most romantic destinations in Europe, Verona is one of the best places to visit for couples, from its picturesque streets and squares, such as Piazza delle Erbe, to the lovely views from Castel San Pietro.
Eternalized by Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet, several tours take you across the many iconic locations, from the famous balcony at Juliet’s house (La Casa di Giulietta) to Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.
Tour the ancient Arena of Verona and, for a unique experience, visit during the summer opera festival.
Save some time for a day trip to the impressive Santuario Madonna della Corona, built by a cliff 2000 meters above the sea level, or the iconic Lake Garda.
- Verona tours
See also: Things to do in Verona
98 – Liverpool, United Kingdom
The Beatles’ famous hometown, start your Liverpool adventure at The Beatles Story museum, filled with history and objects, from clothes owned by the group to handwritten lyrics.
With one of the world’s most important trading ports, explore Royal Albert Dock, a former major trading center.
Admire the city’s outstanding architecture, from the Cathedral of the Risen Christ to the incredible buildings along the Pier Head. For the sports fans, check the Liverpool FC Museum and take a stadium tour.
Even though the show is set in Birmingham, Liverpool is actually home to plenty of Peaky Blinders filming locations, from Port Sunlight to Falkner Square.
With a lively and diverse nightlife, catch a show at Liverpool’s Royal Court Theatre or grab a drink at the historic Cavern Club; there’s always fun granted in the city.
- Liverpool tours
See also: Things to do in Liverpool
99 – Valencia, Spain
With a mild climate, futuristic architecture mixed with rich history, delicious food and lively ambiance, Valencia is one of the best places to visit in Europe all year round.
Home to one of Spain’s largest stadiums, sports lovers must include the Mestalla Stadium on their list – and maybe catch a Valencia Football Club’s game there.
Admire the outstanding design of the City of Arts and Sciences and visit Europe’s largest aquarium, Oceanografic. Consider combining the ticket with a visit to the Hemispheric or the Science Museum.
Take a walking tour around the Old Town, visit La Lonja de la Seda, one of the most iconic landmarks in Valencia and delve into the city’s history at the many museums, from the Museum of Fine Arts to the Ceramics Museum.
Taste local tapas at the Central Market, enjoy a fine dinner at Colón Market, and no trip to Valencia would be complete without trying the typical paella.
- Valencia tours
See also: Things to do in Valencia , Oceanografic Valencia tickets price
100 – Istanbul, Turkey
With a timeless combination of ancient and modern life, the bustling Istanbul is famous for being the bridge between Europe and Asia.
The main attractions are the Hagia Sophia, with marvelous Byzantine architecture; the Blue Mosque, with outstanding beauty and religious importance; and the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets; but there are countless sites to explore.
With European and Asian influences, Istanbul is a paradise for the foodies: from delicious street food to multiple restaurants and cafes to try.
Climb to the Rumelihisarı Fortress for the best views between the two continents, and take this opportunity to catch a ferry to Asia.
Just one hour’s flight away from Istanbul is the magical Cappadocia. Consider taking a day trip to see the fairy chimneys and fly aboard the world-famous hot air balloons.
- Istanbul tours
See also: Things to do in Istanbul , Cappadocia hot air balloon price , Best places to visit in Turkey
That’s it for the ultimate European bucket list. We hope you’ve enjoyed our selection of the best places to visit in Europe and let us know in the comments what your dream destinations are.
As always, happy travels!
Europe Bucket List: 50 Places you must visit
If you are planning your first visit to Europe and don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to cut straight to the chase and answer the question: Where are the best places in Europe to visit? And with this Europe bucket list, we’ve listed the creme de la creme to help you plan your visit from start to finish.
1. Wake up in Positano, Italy
Let’s begin with perhaps my favourite small town in all of Europe to wake up and see the sunrise: Positano . Located in Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Positano is something out of a fairytale or film set. Quiet and serene, the town is built into the cliffs of the coastline, with colourful facades and terracotta rooftops. And what exactly do you do with your time on the Amalfi Coast, I hear you ask? Start by renting a Vespa and exploring the surrounding towns on a daily basis. There’s no shortage of adventures to be had – visiting Ravello , a quintessential town nestled into the hillside, or Capri , a popular island destination you can reach by ferry.
2. Visit Annecy, France
France has no shortage of photogenic towns to visit. But Annecy , located in southeastern France, is surely one of the most beautiful. Known for its Vieille Ville (old town), Annecy is characterised by cobbled streets, winding canals and colourful houses. In the backdrop of the city, you will notice snow-capped mountains and the expansive Lake Annecy, where you can enjoy rowboats in the summer and take in the stunning surrounds.
3. Spend a weekend in Copenhagen
There are few destinations in Europe I looked forward to as much as Copenhagen . Having long had an obsession with Denmark’s capital city, I eagerly visited in my early twenties and couldn’t wait to step foot off the train. Once on the ground, I was not disappointed. There are endless quaint cafes and bakeries to pop in and out of, especially in winter if you are bracing the cold weather. Then of course you have Nyhavn, the cities’ 17th-century waterfront harbour lined with colourful houses and merchants. If you ask me, this is a destination not to be missed if you find yourself venturing into Northern Europe.
Read more: This is how much each city in Europe costs (from most expensive to cheapest)
4. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Before I visited Iceland for the first time, I had a vision in my mind of what that trip would look like. And you’d better believe it included a visit to bathe in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous attraction. With healing properties and water rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, the blue lagoon is said to aid with skin diseases. And despite being a major tourist attraction with crowds and pricey tickets, given it is such a unique experience that can only be had here in Iceland, we’d say it is worth your while. Just be sure to spend at least a week exploring elsewhere in Iceland, as there are many more incredible sites and attractions on the horizon.
Read more: How to make the most of a stopover in Iceland
5. Visit Pena Palace, Portugal
Europe has no shortage of castles. In fact, you’ll be pressed to find a city or town that doesn’t boast a castle or two. But there are a handful of castles that rise above the rest (in this case, quite literally hidden in the clouds), making them worthy of a visit. Pena Palace in Sintra , Portugal, is one such castle worth visiting. This Romanticist castle in São Pedro de Penaferrim, a municipality of Sintra, overlooks the town from above. On a day with low mist, you won’t even see the castle from the town as it sits above the fog and appears to be floating in the clouds.
Read more: The best pastel de nata Recipe
6. Visit the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, has one of the most beautiful old towns in all of Europe. This fairytale-like city has long been a World of Wanderlust favourite, since I first visited back in 2013 on my first full year of adventures solo across Europe. Tallinn’s cobblestoned Old Town exists inside an imposing wall, with many of the cities’ most preserved cafes and bakeries existing inside. You’ll also find plenty of authentic Baltic cuisine within the city walls, so be sure to allow time to perch up and watch the world pass you by. Be sure not to miss Raeapteek, the oldest pharmacy in Europe. Here you will find fascinating therapies, like Unicorn horn dust.
Read more: Cities to visit for your first time in Europe
7. Visit Peleș Castle, Romania
There are few castles in Europe as beautiful and ethereal as Peleș Castle in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains. Located near Sinaia in Romania, this castle exists on a medieval route linking Transylvania and Wallachia. Built between 1873 and 1914, the castle is commonly considered one of the most beautiful in all of Europe.
Read more: These are the 12 prettiest castles in Europe
8. Spend Christmas in Prague
Prague is an incredible city to visit any time of year, but there is nothing quite like Christmas time in Prague. Suddenly the streets come to life as living markets, with mulled wine and pretzels ready at your disposal. Central Europe as a whole really comes to life with the arrival of Christmas markets, so if you fancy a fairytale visit to Prague, this is certainly the best time of year to find yourself strolling across the Charles Bridge in search of Christmas magic.
Read more: What to know before you visit Prague
9. Visit Vienna, Austria’s capital
Speaking of Central Europe, there is nowhere quite like Vienna . Once described to me as a more refined version of Paris, Vienna certainly feels regal and refined. There are so many wonderful things to do in this city, ranging from indoors to outdoors. I would recommend spending most of your time slowing down, enjoying cultural immersion in the cafe culture of Vienna and feeling as if you have stepped back in time.
Read more: The 6 Best Coffee Houses in Vienna
10. Visit the Red Square, Moscow
Moscow is hands down one of the most exquisite cities in Europe. As the capital city of Russia, you can expect to see opulence on overdrive as you stand in the Red Square, the historical centre of the city of Moscow. Regarded as one of the most famous cities in Europe, from here you can view the Kremlin, Russia’s centre of governance, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral, the State Historical Museum and the GUM Department Store.
Read more: Sights to see for your first time in Moscow
11. Make your way to Rome, the Eternal City
If you are yet to visit Rome, the eternal city, you might have asked yourself, what makes Rome so special? This being the centre of the universe for a long period of time throughout history, the city of Rome has so much to offer visitors by way of history, culture, food and hospitality. There are too many must see attractions in Rome to list, so be sure to check out our Rome bucket list for a full list of all the places you cannot miss.
Read more: The 12 Best Kept Secrets in Rome
12. Discover Gaudí Architecture in Barcelona
The city of Barcelona is brimming with incredible architecture, sights, sounds and smells at every turn. A sensory overload, this city can often be overwhelming given it has so much to offer travelers. For this reason, we’d recommend centring your adventures in Barcelon around a theme. That could be food, culture, or in this case, Gaudí architecture. The city is full of masterpieces – namely Parc Güell (pictured), Casa Milá, Casa Batlló and so many more.
Read more: The 15 Best Things to do in Barcelona
13. Swoon over the Eiffel Tower in Paris
There is of course nothing or nowhere more iconic in Paris, than the Eiffel Tower. This monument is by far one of the most iconic monuments in all of Europe and under a blanket of night sky, it only becomes more magnificent. The best view of the Eiffel Tower is of course from afar and if you ask us, one of the most iconic views of the tower can be found atop the Arc de Triomphe. But don’t let that stop you from visiting the tower up close, as it becomes more and more clear just how large this impressive structure really is.
Read more: The 20 most Instagrammable locations in Paris
14. Walk the Canals of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is certainly one of my favourite cities in all of Europe and if we’re talking about winter travel, I’d say Amsertdam takes the cake for my number one city to spend time in. But regardless of the season, this city is beautiful year-round. The canals are of course the main drawcard in Amsterdam, seamlessly lining the streets and adding to the undeniable romance of the city.
Read more: The solo traveler’s guide to Amsterdam
15. Explore Santorini on foot
Greece is full of incredible islands to explore, so if you’re planning to stop in during your European travels, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. And if time is not on your side, then skip straight over to Santorini for arguably the best Greek island to explore.
Read more: 20 Places to visit in the Balkans
16. See the London skyline from above
London is not only the most visited city in all of Europe, but often tops the list as the most visited city in the entire world. With a history that dates back to Roman times, London as we know it today is a blend of cultures and history, leaving much to be discovered. And as a sprawling city that takes days to discover, we recommend making your way to the top of The Shard building for a view of the city in its entirety. From here, you will really start to understand the layout and size of this city as a whole.
Read more: The best book stores in London
17. Discover Florence, Italy
One city that is always a favourite for travelers is Florence or Firenze as it is known in Italy. This city is highly regarded for its culture, musuems, architecture and fascinating history. Oh, and did we mentioned you will find gelaterias on almost every corner? You will need at least a few days in Florence to discover the must visit attractions, but even more if you want to scratch the surface.
Read more: A complete guide to Tuscany
18. Road trip around Ireland
Ireland is one of those countries where it is more about the journey than the destination. Granted, there are a vast number of sites and attractions throughout Ireland to visit, but we really think the journey itself is where the magic happens. Driving around Ireland is arguably the best way to see the country, so be sure to look into car rental before you go and plan for the long journey.
Read more: You can stay at Ireland’s most impressive castle
19. Visit Lisbon, Portugal
If you fancy a capital city with vibrancy on overload, then head over to Lisbon, Portugal. This city has long flown under the radar, but in recent years has found its footing as one of the must visit cities in Europe. The city is sprawling, hilly, and offers incredible views from the higher points. Be sure to save at least half a day to explore Alfama, a central neighbourhood with flavour and flair.
20. Visit Lapland, Finland
If you don’t mind the cold, a visit to Lapland in Finland is an experience like no other. It is here where you have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights, as well as having the opportunity to partake in a number of unusual winter activities – like dog sledding, visiting a Reindeer farm, or hiking in the forest.
21. Go yachting in Croatia
Chances are you have heard of the yacht week in Croatia, but have you ever thought of joining it? Croatia is one of the best destinations to visit in the summer months, as it offers a huge coastline to enjoy and island hop, as well as being more affordable than Western Europe alternatives.
22. Follow the trail of the Sound of Music in Salzburg
For fans of the Sound of Music, there is no city more appealing than Salzburg, which is also considered the most beautiful city in Austria. You can reach Salzburg by train from Vienna in around two hours, making it an option for a day trip but preferably a destination in itself. The city is incredibly beautiful to explore in itself, but many travellers make their way to Salzburg to join a Sound of Music tour. And if you loved the film, why wouldn’t you!
Read more: 101 Cities to Visit Before you Die
23. Visit the Mamma Mia Island of Skopelos, Greece
With so many Greek islands to choose from, the hardest part will be choosing which islands to visit and which to leave out. But for fans of the Mamma Mia film, the island of Skopelos is a great option. Not only was this one of the most used filming locations for the film, but it is also an incredible island to experience Greek culture.
24. Explore Montenegro in the Balkans
The Balkans offer some of the most underrated and undervisited countries and attractions in all of Europe. But with many travelers looking to get off the beaten path, that truth is slowly changing. If you fancy going out of your comfort zone and visiting somewhere out of the ordinary, Montenegro should be top of your list. There are endless small towns and cities to visit in Montenegro, many of which are located in the Bay of Kotor.
25. Road Trip through Tuscany
A region in central Italy, Tuscany has long been considered the most romantic and ethereal region in Italy to discover. And if you want to see all that Tuscany has to offer, the best way to do this will be via road trip. With the freedom to take your travels at your own pace, you will be able to discover many small towns the locals will share with you as insider secrets, plus some of the more popular cities and towns.
26. Visit the Algarve, Portugal
Located in the South of Portugal, the Algarve will always have a special place in our heart – as this is where we hosted our first ever World of Wanderlust trip! This is Portugal’s most loved holiday destination, for both locals and tourists visiting the country. And for good reason! There are many small coastal towns to discover, but the beaches are so beautiful, they are destinations in themselves.
27. Ride the train on Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland
Also known as the Harry Potter train, the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands is a surreal experience to have in real life, because it looks just the same as it does in the films! Be sure to book your train ticket in advance, as this has become one of the most popular things to do in Scotland.
28. Visit Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnia & Herzegovina is a country that ofter goes overlooked by travelers, especially if you don’d already find yourself in the Balkan region. But if you make your way to Croatia, then you’re really just a short day trip away! Although we think Mostar is worthy of more than a day visit, it has become an increasingly popular day trip from Dubrovnik, Croatia. This small town offers great insight into the history of the country, so be sure to join a walking tour to get a running history of the town and country.
29. Slow down in the Cotswolds
Outside of London, there are endless cities and towns we could recommend across England. But no destination is more worthy than joining London on the Europe bucket list, than the Cotswolds. This is a great opportunity to slow down and take your time in the English countryside. Must visit towns include Bourton-on-the-water, Stow-on-the-wold and Bibury. But there are of course many more!
30. Visit Bruges, the most charming town in Belgium
Bruges is commonly considered one of the most beautiful towns in Europe and indeed, we have ourselves made the claim. So if you fancy photogenic small towns that are so beautiful they feel fairtytale-like, then Bruges cannot be missed.
Read more: These are the 25 most beautiful small towns in Europe
31. Visit Cesky Krumlov
Speaking of beautiful small towns, Cesky Krumlov in Czech Republic is another one of our choices that tops the list. This small town is just a short drive south of Prague, toward the border to Austria. So if you’ve got time to spare in Central Europe, there really is a lot to unpack in this region. And by way of small towns, Cesky Krumlov is a must visit.
32. Explore Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is one of our favourite destinations in Italy and until you visit for yourself, you never can truly grasp the beauty of this region. There are countless small towns located along the lake, many of which are best explored on foot. So jump on board one of the local ferry services and make your way in and out of the towns, starting with our handpicked favourite: Bellagio (pictured).
Read more: The best lake towns to visit across Europe
33. Explore the Rhine River, Germany
Germany is full of incredible towns to visit but if you ask us, many of these are located along the Rhine River. Certainly for romantics and couples, there are endless small towns to be discovered in this region of Germany. So if you fancy a cruise along the Rhine River or perhaps a road trip trailing through these small towns, you’ll be sure to stay busy journeying through this ethereal region of Germany.
34. Discover the Fjordlands, Norway
Norway is a destination in itself and if you ask us, you’ll need a week or two to even scratch the surface. But this being one of Europe’s most expensive countries to visit, a great way to visit Norway is in fact as part of a cruise. This way, you’ll get to experience all of the magic of the country without major expenses like hotels, food and travel from one place to the next. I travelled through the fjordlands of Norway this way a few years ago and it is a trip I will never forget.
35. Spend a weekend in Stockholm, Sweden
There are many beautiful cities in Scandinavia to discover, but perhaps my favourite of them all is Stockholm, Sweden. This city offers a bit of everything for design lovers – by way of museums, architecture, galleries, cafes, and beautiful Scandinavian furniture stores. You could spend an entire week here but for the sake of time and budget, give yourself a weekend instead.
36. Explore Budapest, Hungary
Despite once flying under the radar of European travel itienraries, Budapest has well and truly become discovered. This city is now considered a must visit destination on any Europe bucket list, so be sure to add it to yours. Located in Hungary in the heart of Europe, the city is buzzing with beautiful buildings, monuments, and of course, the famed public bath houses.
37. Visit the Swiss Alps
The Swiss Alps are most popular during the winter months but if you ask us, there’s never a bad time to visit. Exploring this region by train is an easy way to kick back and take it all in, all the while traveling from one town to the next. There are many great cities to visit in Switzerland too, but once you’ve visited the alps, you’ll see why this heart stopping region is a popular destination for travelers every year.
38. Row a boat on Lake Bled, Slovenia
Fancy visiting the most romantic lake in all of Europe? Then head on over to Lake Bled, Slovenia’s most famous tourist attraction and for good reason. There are many ways to see and experience the lake – including swimming in the summer, walking or riding a bike around the rim of the lake, but my personal favourite is to row a boat to the island in the heart of the lake.
39. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
As we said earlier, Europe has no shortage of castles. And in Germany, there are certainly many to be discovered. But if you pick just one, we recommend visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in the South of the country, neatly tucked away in Bavaria. This castle has a unique history and has since been dubbed the “Disney Castle” given its similarity to the logo. You can visit and tour ths castle seasonally, which is a great day trip on offer from Munich.
40. Visit Hallstatt, Austria’s prettiest lake town
Meanwhile in the central region of Europe, you might also want to add a little town by the name of Hallstatt to your Europe bucket list. This town is commonly considered the most beautiful lakeside town in all of Europe – and it isn’t hard to see why!
Read more: The prettiest lake towns in Europe
41. Ride a Gondola in Venice, Italy
If you find yourself in Italy, you are likely to stumble upon Venice, as it is one of the most visited cities in the country alongside Rome, Florence and Milan. And if you find yourself in Venice, you really must experience a gondola ride to get the full Venetian experience.
42. Visit the Acropolis, Greece
While Athens can often get a bad wrap in travel blogs and guides, there really is something so impressive and grounding about visiting the Acropolis . This ancient citadel is still preserved to this day and is certainly worthy of a visit while you transit en route to the nearby islands.
43. Attend Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany
This list of Europe bucket list items would not be complete without mention of Germany’s Oktoberfest. The beer festival takes place annually and has become a huge drawcard for international travelers, especially those in their 20’s and 30’s seeking a fun social experience.
44. Explore Edinburgh
Many years ago we named Edinburgh the most underrated capital city in all of Europe and to this day, we stand by it. However, since then, visitors to Edinburgh have skyrocketed and the popularity of this city is now something to behold. But that doesn’t mean the charm has worn off and if you ask us, this is one of the most beautiful large cities in all of Europe. Especially for Harry Potter fans, as this is where soem of the books themselves were written.
45. Explore the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg, Russia
Russia’s two biggest cities are often where you will find international travelers and that’s for good reason. St Petersburg was once the capital city of Russia, and as such has a long list of attractions to offer. But there is one such attraction we’d argue surpasses all the rest. And that is, of course, the Hermitage Museum. Once a winter palace, the Hermitage today is home to countless artefacts, art works and is itself a living history.
46. Walk the city walls of Dubrovnik
If you find yourself in Croatia, then be sure to stop by Dubrovnik, the coastal city that has become a hot spot for international travelers. This walled city is as beautiful as it looks in films. And if it looks familiar, you might recognise the city as one of the main filming locations for popular HBO series Game of Thrones .
47. Explore Ljubljana, Europe’s most underrated Capital City
Speaking of underrated capital cities (at this point we have named a few), you really must add Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, to your Europe bucket list. This city is quaint, charming, and especially so in the summer months.
48. Walk through history in Poland
There are too many cities and towns in Poland you must visit to name just one, so we’ll name two: Warsaw (the capital) and Krakow (the gatway to Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps). Both of these cities offer insight into Poland’s turbulent past, and both are worthy of a visit on your tour of Eastern Europe.
49. Visit the most celebrated failure in architecture
The leaning tower of Pisa was in fact never supposed to be this way. But this work of architecture is perhaps the most celebrated failure of its kind, with many travelers makeing their way to Pisa just to take a photo with the icon.
50. Visit the wonders of Istanbul
Some may say we’ve saved the best ’til last and others may catch us out on a technicality – but we’d be doing you a disservice to not mention the wonders of Istanbul! This city is the largest in Turkey and straddles both Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. Across the city you will notice the many empires that have once ruled here and the many names this city has held, at the hands of various rulers. There is no other city in the world quite like it – so be sure to add Istanbul to your bucket list.
Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.
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25 Best Places to Visit in Europe
By Carl Austin · Last updated on July 5, 2024
In the old days, Americans use to take a couple of years to make the Grand Tour of Europe. They had the right idea. You need lots of time to fully experience all that Europe has to offer. Since most of us today have only a few weeks holiday each year, we need to pick and choose what we’ll see.
With so many top places to visit in Europe, we can narrow the list down by geographic region or special interest. Since it takes only hours to get to Europe these days, compared to the weeks it took our ancestors, to get to Europe, we can always return to visit new sights.
Vienna is the most magical city in Austria. It’s a city that conjures up images of beautifully gowned women dancing to Strauss waltzes. It’s a city where beautiful white Lippizaners dance with precision around a ring. It’s a place where you’ll toss your diet aside for a piece of chocolaty sachertore.
Don’t forget to wander the picturesque Old Town, visit the opulent Baroque Schonbrunn Palace, the medieval St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the imperial Holburg Palace or maybe even a performance by the famed Vienna Boys Choir.
See also: Where to Stay in Vienna
24. Stonehenge
You have to marvel at the determination of prehistoric man when you look at Stonehenge. Construction started about 3000 BC on what was originally burial grounds. Huge monoliths, weighing 25 tons, were dragged 240 km (150 miles) to the site a few hundred years later.
It’s not known exactly how many humungous rocks were moved to a field near Amesbury but there are 13 standing today. It’s also not known why Stonehenge was built, but many believe this great UK landmark is associated with early astrology.
23. Matterhorn
Egypt may have its pyramids, but Italy and Switzerland have a nature-made pyramid of their own: the Matterhorn. At 4,478 meters (14,692 feet) high, this famous mountain is one of the highest in Europe. The mountain has four faces, each equally rugged.
This legendary mountain has been popular with climbers since the first ascent in 1865; during the summer 150 people a day try to climb it. Couch potatoes may be just as happy to stay below and gaze in awe at the summit playing hide and seek with the clouds.
22. Plitvice Lakes
The Plitvice Lakes are so pretty, officials turned them into a national park. Located in central Croatia, Plitvice Lakes consists of 16 lakes that attract more than a million visitors a year. The lakes are surrounded by lush forests and connected by waterfalls cascading down from one lake to another.
The lakes are divided into two sections, lower and upper, because of the difference in elevation. The best way to see the lakes is walking; on the route you might even see some wildlife.
21. Budapest
Budapest was already an established city when the Hungarians took over in the ninth century. Today, Budapest is the country’s capital and largest city. In between these two events, Budapest was ruled by the Mongols and Ottomans, among others.
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Budapest is home to the Museum of Fine Arts with its collection of more than 100,000 works. Be sure to visit the centrally located Old Town with its many museums, churches, palaces and Parliament building.
The Portuguese capital of Lisbon lies on the Tagus River along the Atlantic coast. It is this location that encouraged explorers to sail far and wide around the world in the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries.
One of the things you’ll want to see is Belem Tower, a 16th century fortress on the Tagus’ north bank. If you’re looking for good views of old Lisbon, head to Sao Jorge Castle that was built on a hilltop by the Moors.
See also: Where to Stay in Lisbon
19. Gullfoss
You probably don’t know too too many people who’ve been to Iceland. But it may be worth a trip there to visit the spectacular Gullfoss waterfalls. Located in southern Iceland, Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s top tourist attractions.
At times it almost appears glacier-like, appropriate, perhaps, since it is fed by a glacier. The waterfalls begins just after the Ölfusá River makes a perpendicular turn and then cascades down a three-step staircase into a canyon that is 35 meters (115 feet) deep.
Athens, a city that’s been inhabited since the fifth century BC, gave the world the concept of democracy. Since this metropolis is both the capital of Greece and of historical Europe.
Many of the Athens’s major landmarks can be found in the old town, particularly around the Acropolis. The list includes the temple of Zeus; the Theatre of Dionysus where Sophocles works were performed; Hadrian’s Arch, the symbolic entrance to the city, and the Parthenon, which sits atop the Acropolis.
See also: Where to Stay in Athens
17. Bay of Kotor
When you’re hungry for breathtaking scenery, feast your eyes on Kotor Bay in southwestern Montenegro. This bay off the Adriatic is just downright picturesque: hemmed in by mountains, with quaint villages sandwiched between the cliffs and the gorgeous blue water.
Several well-preserved medieval towns ring the bay. People make pilgrimages here, not only to take in the scenery but also to visit the 200 Orthodox and 100 Christian churches and chapels spread among the villages.
Moscow, for nearly 900 years the capital of Russia, is the heart of Russia and Eastern Europe. As such, this old city has plenty to offer visitors. Let’s start with the 15th century Red Square since many of the city’s key attractions surround it.
A top landmark is the Kremlin, a former fortress that houses museums and the president of the Russian federation. Lenin’s Tomb sits in the middle of the square, while the iconic onion-domed St. Basil’s Cathedral, now a museum, is on one side.
Venice is for romantics who love gliding through the Grand Canal with a gondolier singing Italian love songs. This is, after all, the city that sent Marco Polo off on his journey to China.
Start your exploration of Venice at San Marco Square, the city’s most famous square. Here you’ll find the Doge’s Palace, the seat of Venetian government, and St. Mark’s Basilica, the main church in Venice with stunning views from the tower. Venice also is famous for its bridges (Rialto and Sighs) across the canals.
See also: Where to Stay in Venice
14. Monte Carlo
If you’re into glitz and glamour, look no further than Monte Carlo, the major city in the tiny principality of Monaco. Monaco has always been known for these qualities which reached new heights when its prince made Grace Kelly his princess.
Sitting on the shores of the Mediterranean, Monte Carlo is known for fast car races and its elite casino. Take a walk along the harbor to see yachts (some as big as ships) that belong to the rich and famous.
13. Alhambra
The Alhambra is one of the great wonders of Spain. It’s a gorgeous palace-fortress complex that can be found in Granada in southern Spain’s Andalusia province. This imposing complex started out as a small fortress in the late ninth century, though it was built on the ruins of a former Roman fortress.
Taken over by Christian rulers, it is the site where Columbus got the go-ahead to discover the New World. The blending of architectural styles over the centuries is stunning. You’ll find great art and grand gardens throughout.
12. Florence
If it weren’t for Florence, the Renaissance might not have happened. Florence is generally credited with bringing Europe out of the dark ages with great artists like Michelangelo. You can see their works at the Uffizi, Florence’s greatest gallery, or the Academia that displays the original David.
Eat a gelato while strolling the Ponte Vecchio that bridges the Arno River. Ogle the over-the-top riches of the Medici family at the Pitti Palace. Marvel at the early engineering that created the great Duomo. This is Florence at its best.
English history buffs will have a field day in London . This city on the Thames is chock full of palaces, from Buckingham Palace to Hampton Court Palace . More a prison than a palace, the Tower of London is home to the royal jewels.
And from Knightsbridge – don’t forget to visit the magnificent food halls at Harrods – to Carnaby Street, the shopping is awesome. You can get around London quickly and efficiently by riding the famous Tube – be sure to mind the gap.
10. Neuschwanstein Castle
“Fairy tale castle” is a phrase that aptly describes Neuschwanstein Castle in the Bavarian Alps. This 19th century Romanesque Revival castles looks like it just stepped out of a fairy tale; some say Neuschwanstein provided the inspiration for the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.
The castle was built as a retreat for King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who viewed it as a romanticization of the Middle Ages The castle was built of brick, then covered in rock, including the white limestone that is visible from afar.
9. Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a pleasant city marked with meandering canals lined with tall, narrow row houses. It is the city where Anne Frank kept her famous diary, so visiting the house where she wrote is a must.
This “Venice of the North” also is a city of great art, beginning with the Rijksmuseum, home to great European masterpieces; Rembrandt’s house and the more modern van Gogh museum. Take a break from sightseeing to tour and sample Holland’s beer at the Heineken Brewery.
See also: Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Prague, with a long history of war and destruction, is considered one of the best places to visit in Europe. Despite devastation caused by World War II, Prague has a very nice Old Town that is worth more than a few hours of your time.
Prague has many pedestrian zones, which making walking a delight, as you wander by Prague Castle, through the Jewish Quarter, by St. Vitus Cathedral and over the Charles Bridge. Wenceslas Square, situated in the New Town, hums with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment air.
See also: Where to Stay in Prague
7. Istanbul
Istanbul may be on the outer fringes of Europe but will worth a visit when you’re traveling abroad. Turkey’s biggest city is a fascinating place, filled with rich history, colorful markets and mosques.
Top attractions include the Bosporus that separates Europe and Asia; the ecumenical Hagia Sophia that’s been a Greek Orthodox Christian basilica, then an imperial mosque and now a museum, and the 15th century Topkapi Palace, also a museum today. Get in a little shopping at the Grand Bazaar that’s been in operation since 1461.
See also: Where to Stay in Istanbul
6. Geirangerfjord
When the summer heat of Europe gets you down, head to Norway with its pretty cool scenery. Geirangerfjord is a 15 km (9.3-mile) long fjord with crystal blue waters fed by picturesque cascading waterfalls. Take a sightseeing trip on a car ferry through the fjord, passing villages on the shores.
Look out for the Seven Sisters and Suitor waterfalls so named because legend says he’s trying to court the sisters. Also look for Bridal Veil – when the light is right, it looks like a thin veil covering the rocks.
5. Barcelona
Founded by the Romans, Barcelona today is a bustling city on the Mediterranean Sea. As the capital of Catalonia, it is a powerhouse in the region. It is perhaps best known for the unusual buildings designed by the architect Antoni Gaudi. These landmark structures include La Sagrada Familia, a church that’s been under construction since 1892.
You could build your entire visit around his buildings, but then you’d miss out on other Barcelona delights, such as La Rambla, a popular pedestrian street in the central part of the city.
4. Dubrovnik
As European cities go, Dubrovnik isn’t very big, but don’t let its size deter you. This little jewel, with less than 43,000 people, is one of the most visited cities on the Mediterranean.
Dubrovnik transports visitors back to a time when the fortified city was a major maritime power commanding the third-largest navy in the Mediterranean. As you wander the streets, you’ll likely come across sculptures of St. Viaho, the city’s patron saint whose life is celebrated every February.
3. Santorini
When it’s time to sit back and relax, take yourself to to Santorini , an island in the Aegean. Top travel magazines consider this a prime destination; once there, you can’t help but agree.
The island has picture-postcard villages, an active volcano and stunning sunsets. Be sure to visit Fira, a village perched atop a cliff. You’ll also want to sample wines, such as the dessert wine Vincanto as well as the produce that is made sweeter and tastier because of the volcanic ash soil it grows in.
Songs laud Paris in the springtime, but any time of year is a good time to visit this riveting city on the River Seine. It’s a city loaded to the brim with history, culture, great food and high fashion.
The iconic Eiffel Tower is one landmark you won’t want to miss. The Louvre houses one of the greatest art collections in the world. Its great churches include Sacred Heart and Notre Dame. When it comes to opulence, there’s Versailles with its famed Hall of Mirrors.
The ancient Romans established outposts as far away as Great Britain. They didn’t ignore their home city, however, when it came to building great monuments. One must-see landmark in Rome is the Colosseum, an arena that could hold up to 80,000 people for gladiator contests.
One of the biggest draws is a tiny country inside the city: The Vatican City, with its impressive St. Peter’s Basilica with art provided by Michelangelo is a must-see even if you’re not Catholic. Maybe you’ll get a glimpse of the pope at his Wednesday audiences.
See also: Where to Stay in Rome
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The Best European Country To Visit Every Month Of The Year
Planning a European trip can be tricky. You want the best weather, fewer crowds, and just the right vibe.
The good news is, Europe has something magical on offer every month of the year. From winter wonderlands to summer beaches, the right timing can make all the difference.
Here’s my month-by-month guide to help you plan your trip and pick a European destination when it’s at its very best.
After all, no one wants to accidentally pack for a beach holiday and end up mastering the art of layering.
Someone once told me that they were planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast in the winter and I was horrified!
Month By Month Guide To Where To Go In Europe
January: norway.
January transforms Norway into a winter wonderland, making it the ideal time for snow lovers and adventurers.
The country’s snowy landscapes come alive, especially in destinations like Tromsø and Svalbard.
For winter sports enthusiasts, the opportunities are almost endless—snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and husky sledding are all popular activities.
But the real highlight? The Northern Lights.
Tromsø , often referred to as the Gateway to the Arctic, is one of the best places to witness this magical natural phenomenon.
When the day ends, you can retreat to a cozy cabin, warm up by the fire, and enjoy a hot drink as the snow falls softly outside.
If you like cities, in Oslo, you can explore the stunning Vigeland Sculpture Park covered in snow.
Or visit the Nobel Peace Center to learn about the city’s rich history and the Munch Museum to see the haunting paintings of Edvard Munch.
For outdoor activities, head to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump for great views and a ski museum, or try ice skating in Spikersuppa, a charming rink in the heart of the city.
Oslo’s winter markets and cozy cafés are also perfect for warming up after a day of exploring.
February: Austria
In February, Austria becomes a paradise for ski lovers. The Alps are blanketed in snow, creating the perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding in famous resorts like Innsbruck and St. Anton.
Austria is known for its world-class ski resorts.
St. Anton am Arlberg is widely regarded as one of the best ski resorts in Austria. Known for its world-class skiing, it offers a mix of challenging runs, excellent off-piste opportunities, and a lively après-ski scene.
For a cultural twist, Vienna offers something extraordinary: the Vienna Opera Ball. The event is a glamorous affair with elegant gowns, classical music, and a historic setting in the grand Vienna State Opera.
You can explore the grand Schönbrunn Palace, which was once the summer residence of the Habsburgs.
Another must-visit is the Hofburg Palace , the former imperial palace that now houses museums and stunning rooms showcasing royal history.
For art and culture lovers, head to the Belvedere Palace , home to famous works like Klimt’s The Kiss .
The MuseumsQuartier is also a great spot to explore contemporary and classical art in multiple museums, including the absolutely magnificent Kunsthistorisches .
If you’re craving picturesque winter scenery, Hallstatt’s snow-covered village and frozen lake provide a postcard-perfect scene, making February a delightful time to visit.
March: Spain
March marks the arrival of spring in Spain, especially in the southern region of Andalusia .
With temperatures warming up, but still mild, it’s the perfect time to explore cities like Seville , Granada , and Cordoba before the crowds arrive in the summer.
Wander through Seville’s enchanting streets, visit the Alhambra in Granada, or discover the quirky beauty of Cordoba’s Mezquita.
Visiting Madrid in March is also a fantastic choice, as the city starts to come alive with the arrival of spring. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s many sights without the intense heat of summer.
You can stroll through iconic spots like the Plaza Mayor, Retiro Park, and Gran Vía without the intense summer crowds. Or dig into Madrid’s vibrant cultural scene at the Prado , Thyssen-Borizima , and Reina Sofía .
One of Spain’s most exciting festivals also takes place in March: Las Fallas in Valencia.
This lively event is known for its huge bonfires, stunning fireworks displays, and intricate papier-mâché figures that are ceremoniously burned at the festival’s end.
It’s a thrilling cultural experience that brings the city to life.
April: Netherlands
In April, the Netherlands blooms into a colorful spectacle. This is the prime time for tulip season, with vibrant fields stretching as far as the eye can see.
Keukenhof, just outside Amsterdam, is a must-visit, showcasing millions of tulips in every color imaginable.
April is also perfect for exploring Amsterdam’s charming canals and famous flower markets.
Visit the Rijksmuseum to see masterpieces by Dutch artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer, or explore the Van Gogh Museum for a deeper look into the life and works of the iconic painter.
Another must-do is the Anne Frank House, where you can learn about her story and see the secret annex.
Toward the end of the month, the country bursts into celebration for King’s Day, with parades, parties, and streets filled with locals dressed in bright orange.
The festive atmosphere paired with the beauty of the tulip fields makes April an unforgettable time to experience the Netherlands.
May: Greece
May is the sweet spot for visiting Greece, just before the heavy influx of tourists.
The weather is warm but not too hot, making it ideal for exploring the islands like Santorini, Crete, and Mykonos.
Without the summer crowds, you can enjoy a quieter experience in charming villages, visit ancient ruins, and relax on stunning beaches.
Athens is another excellent destination in May.
You can explore the Acropolis and other historical landmarks in comfortable temperatures. Then visit the amazing Acropolis Museums to see the Parthenon marbles.
Plaka is one of Athens’ oldest and most charming neighborhoods, filled with narrow, winding streets, colorful buildings, and lively cafés.
It’s the perfect place to stroll, shop for local crafts, and enjoy traditional Greek food at one of the many tavernas.
Greece offers both culture and relaxation, and May is one of the best times to fully appreciate its beauty.
June: Italy
By June, Italy starts to heat up, but it’s still manageable before the peak summer temperatures arrive. This makes it the perfect time to visit iconic cities like Rome , Florence , and Venice .
The weather is warm enough to enjoy outdoor dining, strolls through historic streets, and sightseeing without being overwhelmed by the heat.
Venice and Cinque Terre are especially beautiful in June, offering a more relaxed experience for hiking before the peak tourist season.
The canals of Venice sparkle under the early summer sun, while the colorful cliffside villages of
Florence is a feast for the senses, with its art, history, and lively streets, while Rome offers the chance to unwind in charming cafes and explore ancient ruins in comfort.
For those seeking hidden gems, June is also a great time to explore less-visited spots like Lake Orta, a quieter alternative to the busier Italian lakes.
The Val d’Orcia region in Tuscany is another secret escape, where rolling hills, vineyards, and small villages offer postcard-worthy views.
You can also head to the Dolomites for hiking, where the wildflowers start to bloom and the trails are still peaceful. June in Italy is all about finding those magical moments without the summer rush.
July: France
Long, sunny days make July the perfect month to explore France.
Paris comes alive with outdoor cafes, bustling streets, and beautiful parks.
You can stroll through the Luxembourg or Tuileries gardens, enjoy a picnic along the Seine River, or visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum.
It’s also an ideal time to visit Provence . The lavender fields will be in full bloom, creating a sea of purple across the landscape.
The French Riviera offers sparkling beaches and sophisticated charm. You can unwind in the sun and indulge in fine dining.
The Dordogne is a wonderful place in Europe to visit in summer (though it’s important to note that this is also peak season).
The region’s lush landscapes, fairytale villages, and towering castles really come to life then.
The warm weather is perfect for exploring the area’s stunning countryside, river valleys, and medieval towns like Sarlat and Beynac et Cazenac.
On July 14th, Bastille Day brings festivities across the country, with fireworks, parades, and lively celebrations. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience French culture at its most vibrant.
August: Scotland
August in Scotland is all about the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world.
This lively city transforms into a cultural hub with performances, street art, comedy, and live music. If you love creativity and the arts, this is an amazing time to visit Edinburgh.
Scotland’s natural beauty also shines in August. The weather is mild, making it a great time to explore the Scottish Highlands and the country’s famous lochs.
Loch Ness is famous for the myth of the Loch Ness Monster, and a visit to Urquhart Castle along its shores provides stunning views.
The Isle of Skye is a must-see, with dramatic landscapes like the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Fairy Pools.
Glencoe’s deep valley, surrounded by towering mountains, offers breathtaking scenery and a tragic history.
September: Germany
Germany in September marks the beginning of Oktoberfest in Munich .
This iconic celebration is a must for beer enthusiasts and those who love traditional Bavarian culture.
Beer gardens, music, and lively festivities make it an exciting time, although crowded, to visit Munich.
Aside from Oktoberfest , the cooler September weather is perfect for exploring other cities like Berlin and Hamburg.
In Berlin, if you can bear the cold, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, dive into history at the Holocaust Memorial, and stroll through Museum Island.
In Hamburg, visit the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district, explore the bustling harbor with a boat tour, and check out the striking Elbphilharmonie concert hall.
Or you can opt for road tripping to the cute villages of Bavaria like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Bamberg .
October: Portugal
Portugal in October offers the very best of both worlds: sunny, warm weather and fewer tourists.
The cities of Lisbon and Porto are perfect for autumn exploration, with their historic architecture, scenic river views, and cobblestone streets.
In Lisbon, explore the historic Alfama district, visit the iconic Belém Tower, and ride the famous Tram 28 through the city’s winding streets.
The vibrant neighborhood of Bairro Alto is perfect for nightlife, while a visit to the Jerónimos Monastery gives you a glimpse of Portugal’s rich history.
In Porto, stroll along the Ribeira waterfront, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for stunning views, and tour the famous port wine cellars.
Don’t miss Livraria Lello , one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. And be sure to climb the Clérigos Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
The Algarve is also still warm enough for coastal walks and beach days.
The wine regions, especially the Douro Valley, are at their best during the grape harvest season. You can enjoy wine tastings and beautiful vineyard landscapes without the crowds that summer brings.
November: Hungary
November brings cooler weather to Hungary, but the beauty of Budapest only intensifies.
The fall colors transform the city’s parks, and the iconic thermal baths offer warmth and relaxation.
The Széchenyi Thermal Baths, set against Budapest’s grand architecture, provide a cozy retreat from the chilly air.
As November rolls on, Budapest’s Christmas markets start popping up.
The festive atmosphere, with twinkling lights and the scent of mulled wine, creates a magical experience in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
From Budapest, a popular day trip is to Szentendre, a charming riverside town known for its colorful buildings, art galleries, and cobblestone streets. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll and a taste of local culture.
Another great option is Eger, famous for its historic castle, thermal baths, and nearby wine region, where you can sample the renowned “Bull’s Blood” wine.
READ : Day trips from Budapest
December: Germany
Yes, another plug for Germany. Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, and December is the perfect time to experience their charm.
Nuremberg , Cologne, and Munich host some of Europe’s most enchanting markets.
They’re chock full of holiday decorations, handcrafted gifts, and festive treats. The atmosphere is straight out of a fairy tale.
Snow-dusted medieval towns, warm mulled wine, and festive lights make December in Germany feel truly magical. It’s a fantastic time to explore these historic cities and get into the holiday spirit.
Beyond the famous Christmas markets, there are loads of other fun winter activities.
Head to Bavaria for skiing or snowboarding in the Alps, where resorts like Garmisch-Partenkirchen offer excellent winter sports.
Take a scenic train ride through the snow-covered Black Forest, where you can explore charming villages and enjoy cozy mountain lodges.
In cities like Berlin and Munich, museums and art galleries remain vibrant year-round.
You can also visit historic sites like Neuschwanstein Castle , which looks magical under a dusting of snow. Or warm up in traditional German spas like those in Baden-Baden.
I hope you’ve enjoyed my month by month guide to Europe’s top travel destinations. You may find these European itineraries useful:
- 1 0 days in Croatia itinerary
- 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia itinerary
- 10 days in Bavaria itinerary
- 10-14 days in Spain itinerary
- 10 days in southern France itinerary
- 10 days in Italy itinerary
- 10 days in Tuscany itinerary
- 40 one week in Europe itineraries
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Last Updated on September 24, 2024 by Leslie Livingston
The 27 Most Beautiful Places in Europe
It may be one of the smaller continents, but what Europe lacks in size, it makes up for in variety: The most beautiful places in Europe range from luxurious beaches, fields of bluebells, and limestone cliffs, to some of the best mountain views on the planet.
The options are seemingly endless—which is what makes planning a trip a challenge. We know it isn't easy to choose between chasing waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina, staying awake for the midnight sun in Finland , and hiking your way through the dramatic Dolomites. So, to help you start narrowing things down, we've rounded up just 27 of the most beautiful places in Europe. We know that an international jaunt might be off the table at the moment, but hey—that'll just give you more time to plot out your next trip.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
The Azores, Portugal
Roughly 900 miles off the coast of Lisbon , this Portuguese archipelago can inspire wanderlust with a single photo. The verdant valleys, steep ocean-side cliffs, rows of blue hydrangeas, and scattering of waterfalls make the Azores a paradise worth exploring —just make sure you visit before everyone you know beats you to it.
Caucasus Mountains, Georgia
After decades spent out of sight and out of mind for many travelers, due in part to limited infrastructure and intermittent conflict with neighboring Russia, this former Soviet republic is attracting travelers tired of crowded mountain trails in the Alps or reservation-only vineyards in France. The best way to witness the diversity of Georgia’s terrain is on its hiking trails , which wind through the Greater Caucasus mountain range dividing Europe from Asia.
Biarritz, France
Swimming in turquoise waters, sipping rosé at sunset, breathing in scents of lavender: The South of France is the embodiment of French glamour and sophistication. The area includes idyllic locations such as Biarritz, a resort town whose wild beaches are hugely popular with surfers, royals, and celebrities (you might also recognize it from Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises ).
Kravica Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina
You've undoubtedly heard of Croatia's Krka National Park, whose waterfalls are so popular that the country is limiting how many people can visit . Thankfully, neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina has plenty of gorgeous waterfalls, too: The wide expanse of falls and emerald pools of the Kravica waterfalls, surrounded by green forests, are a pilgrimage-worthy sight. And, unlike in Croatia, you’ll often have them all to yourself.
Las Salinas de Torrevieja, Spain
Pink sand beaches are reason enough to hop on a plane to the Caribbean—but in Spain, you can swim in pink water. This rose-tinted lake located in Valencia is part of the gorgeous Las Salinas de Torrevieja National Park. It's home to thousands of flamingos during breeding season, but most locals prefer to think of it as their natural spa—thanks to its high salt content, a quick float is both detoxing and exfoliating. Plan to visit on a bright, sunny day when the water is at its pinkest, making it hands down one of the most beautiful places in Europe.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Few places exemplify the raw, untamed beauty of Ireland ’s west coast like the Cliffs of Moher, a natural wonder that reaches 702 feet at the highest point. And while you might recognize them as the Cliffs of Insanity from The Princess Bride , this wonder is hardly fiction—the cliffs are located just a 90-minute drive south of Galway. To get there you can rent a car or catch a shuttle bus from Doolin that will take you directly to the cliffs.
The Dolomites, Italy
A less glamorous (but no less gorgeous) relative of the Alps , the Dolomites stretch across the northeastern part of Italy . Aside from its pristine trails for local skiers come wintertime, the mountain range makes for one of the world's most breathtaking alpine drives. For some of the best views, head to the stylish but sleepy resort town of Bolzano, where rolling green hills juxtapose beautifully against the sawtoothed peaks behind them.
Eastern Carpathians, Romania
Romania may be best known for its medieval castles and Gothic churches, but the country also has some of the most enigmatic landscapes of southeastern Europe—particularly in and around the Carpathian Mountains. The range's dense forests are beautiful no matter where you are, but they somehow feel even lovelier when you come across sites like the Lacul Roșu (Red Lake), pictured here.
Capri, Italy
By reputation, Capri is by far Italy's most glamorous island—and most dramatic. From the the iconic Faraglioni rocks settled in the azure Mediterranean to the scent of the island's many flowers, it's almost sensory overload. Start your journey in the colorful Piazza Umberto, the perfect kickoff point for your day of exploration. Sites like Blue Grotto may be crowded with fellow travelers, but locales like the Punta Carena Lighthouse and the Certosa di San Giacomo offer a bit of respite from crowds. At the latter, you’ll find well-preserved cloisters, frescos, and gardens even as exhibition spaces and a library modernize the former monastery.
Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
Legend has it the Giant's Causeway, with its thousands of hexagonal basalt columns rising from the sea, was the remains of an actual causeway built by giants. Science says it was formed by a volcanic eruption some 50 to 60 million years ago—but whether you choose to believe the fable or the facts, there's no doubt that this otherworldly site showcases nature at her most incredible.
Kirkjufell, Iceland
This dazzling "Church Mountain" near the town of Grundarfjörður is one of Iceland's most photographed sites, and for good reason—it's among the best places to see the Northern Lights in the country. It also offers an added bonus for Game of Thrones fans: The landmark served as a very important filming location in Season 7.
Lapland, Finland
With its stark white landscapes, frequent Northern Lights displays, and a reindeer population that outnumbers its human residents, Finnish Lapland feels like something out of a fairytale. We suggest cozying up at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel , where you'll be welcomed with a hot mug of glogg (mulled wine) and can spend hours gazing through the northern facing, floor-to-ceiling windows. Visit in the summer to catch a glimpse of the midnight sun as well.
Las Médulas, Spain
You can attribute the unusual landscape of Las Médulas—which is about a four-hour ride from Madrid in northwest Spain—to the ancient Romans, who essentially devastated the mountains here while extracting gold during the 1st century A.D. The miners built a complicated system of aqueducts and channels to force running water through the area, leaving the scattered, reddish peaks you see today.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Just off of Norway's northwestern coast, you'll find the Lofoten Islands , a majestical untamed area well known for its surfing beaches and viewing of the Northern Lights. The archipelago is made up of many islands, but no matter which you head to, you'll find clear blue waters that rival the Mediterranean and craggy mountains that are reminiscent of Iceland—right beside unparalleled fjords and beaches.
Micheldever Wood, England
Located about five miles from Winchester in Hampshire, Micheldever Wood is a lovely forest with beech trees, woodland birds, and wandering deer. Come springtime, the place becomes even more sensational, thanks to bluebells that blanket the forest floor.
Vatnajökull, Iceland
Home to one of the largest glaciers in the world, Vatnajökull National Park is one of our favorite places to explore ice caves . But there's more than just frozen ice rivers to see at Vatnajökull, which covers much of Iceland's eastern half. It holds two of the island's most active volcanoes, herds of reindeer around Mt. Snæfell, and a number of breathtaking waterfalls, including Svartifoss, Dettifoss, and Selfoss.
Moravian Fields, Czech Republic
The Moravian Fields look like an oil painting, but these pastel-colored hills are as real as it gets. The Czech Republic's easternmost region is often referred to as Moravian Tuscany, due to its uncanny resemblance to the eponymous rolling hills in Italy. Even better? The area is an easy day trip from Prague .
Meteora, Greece
As if still-standing monasteries from the 15th century weren't impressive enough, the buildings of Meteora are famously situated on almost inaccessible sandstone peaks in central Greece. Brave travelers can pay a visit to the Monastery of the Holy Trinity—one of six monasteries that are still standing—via a 140-step staircase cut into the side of the cliff.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world—particularly if you visit during the winter, when the Swiss Alps become a luxury skiing playground and thick snow turns the mountain range into a true wonderland . There's also something about spotting the iconic Matterhorn peak that stops us dead in our ski tracks every time.
Hillegom, Netherlands
Google “spring flower pictures” and your screen will be flooded with photos of tulips— tulips in Holland , to be precise. The flowers bloom throughout the region, although some destinations are definitely more tourist-packed than others. We suggest heading to Hillegom in the western countryside, which is a quieter alternative to the very popular Keukenhof gardens.
Zlatni Rat, Croatia
Of all the beaches in Croatia , Zlatni Rat on Brač Island stands out for its unusual shape, which changes depending on the current. The so-called "Golden Cape" gets its name from its shape and color, but it's also a popular spot for windsurfing, jet-skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you want to simply sit back and marvel at the Adriatic Sea's impossibly turquoise waters, though, we won't judge.
Faroe Islands, Denmark
Located in the North Atlantic Ocean near Scotland are the Faroe Islands. Literally translating to “sheep's island," the mountainous region is made up of 18 islands in total and is home to 70,000 sheep, outweighing the number of locals. But the island is strikingly beautiful, too, with picturesque mountains, jagged coastlines, and green forests. Don't miss the Mulafossur Waterfall, which looks straight out of a fairytale, with water falling over rocky cliffs and a tiny village in the background.
Hallstatt, Austria
Majestic glaciers, lush meadows, and glassy waters are just part of this ancient village's appeal. Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also known for its ancient salt mine with the oldest wooden staircase in Europe (three thousand years old, to be exact). It's also a popular skiing and snowboarding destination during winter months, thanks to heavy snowfalls and small crowds—the local population is just 800 people.
Champagne-Ardenne, France
As its name suggests, Champagne-Ardenne is the birthplace of bubbly and one of the most beautiful regions in France. The area is covered with idyllic valleys and vineyards, of course, but also ancient castles, chateaus, and abbeys. Make sure to visit the capital city of Troyes for splendid churches from the Middle Ages, and Reims for underground wine cellars and the masterpiece Cathédrale Notre-Dame .
Isle of Skye, Scotland
With fairy pools and endless undulations of hills, the magical Isle of Skye is the stuff dreams are made of (regardless of whether you've binge-watched Outlander yet). While the nature here is timeless, the island also has a food scene that's totally modern—we can't think of a more beautiful place to sample Michelin-starred cuisine.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
There's a reason Lake Bled is one of Slovenia 's most popular sites. With its emerald waters, church-dotted islet, views of the Julien Alps, and Disney-like castle on a hill, you won't be short of picture-perfect views. Pro tip: Take your sweetheart on a boat ride in a pletna , a traditional wooden rowboat, to the lush island in the middle of the lake. (Legend has it, visiting the island’s church and ringing its bell will make all your dreams come true.)
Rakotzbrücke (Rakotz Bridge), Germany
Hidden in Kromlau's Rhododendron Park, Rakotzbrücke is a 19th-century bridge that creates a perfect stone circle when reflected in the waters below it. Rakotzbrücke is often referred to as "Devil's Bridge," since the structure seems so impossible that it must have been built by, well, the devil.
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10 Best Places to Go in Europe This Fall for a Last-minute Escape
With lower prices, fewer crowds, and generally pleasant weather, fall is one of the best times for a European vacation.
Dennis Fischer Photography/Getty Images
I’ve always found the idea of a European summer vacation is usually far more glamorous than the reality. The increasingly warmer weather, lack of air conditioning, and crowds of fellow tourists can turn your trip into an uncomfortable and overwhelming experience. Not to mention, summer is the peak season for most European countries, so prices tend to be higher.
With that in mind, I try to plan my transatlantic travels for later in the year, when the temperatures have started to drop but the first major snow is still weeks away. London is one of my favorite places to visit during the fall; a brisk stroll through Hampstead Heath followed by a late pub lunch is the definition of a perfect October or November day. Paris is also spectacular this time of year. You can walk miles through charming neighborhoods and past iconic sights, taking in the golden colors and enjoying the City of Light when it’s quieter and less congested.
Along with London and Paris, Europe has dozens of other destinations to check out before winter arrives — whether you’re hoping to plan a last-minute city escape, a beach trip, or a mountain getaway. To narrow down the list to just 10, I tapped a few travel experts to share their picks. Read on to discover the best places to go in Europe this fall.
Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure
According to David Whiteside, the global chief operating officer at Onefinestay , Rome is always a good idea, but especially in the fall. “For a stylish Roman adventure, visit the Galleria Borghese , one of the city’s most prestigious art galleries, or the Orto Botanico , which is a garden filled with winding paths, hidden fountains, and ancient trees,” he says. When you’ve worked up an appetite, he suggests heading to Antico Forno Roscioli : “This historic bakery has been serving exceptional pizza for decades. Their pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) is a revelation.” One of the best things about Rome in the fall is the fact that you can leisurely eat your gelato and not worry about it melting so quickly — and, as Whiteside notes, you’ll find gelaterias scattered across the city.
Violetta Smiranova/Travel + Leisure
“ Madeira is an ideal and off-the-beaten-path place to visit in the fall,” says Reesa Avelino, a Europe product specialist at Goway . “After the dry summer season, the fall can be a bit cooler and rainier, so its lush forest gets refreshed and the island's true essence comes alive.” Temperatures generally range between 66 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit, and the summer crowds have left the island, leaving a destination that’s ripe for amazing mountain biking, surfing, cycling, and canyoning. Don’t forget to bring your hiking boots, too. Madeira is known for its incredible levada trails that wind through the laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure
“ Sardinia is hot in the summer, so fall and spring are the two seasons that I recommend,” says Agustina Lagos Marmol, owner of adventure company Dolomite Mountains . In her experience, September through October and the first week of November are the best for biking, hiking, and boating around the island, but travelers can also immerse themselves in the cultural events of Autunno in Barbagia — celebrated across 30 villages in the Barbagia region — through mid-December. Other ways to enjoy the Italian destination in the fall include wine tastings, visiting archaeological sites, and swimming in the clear ocean waters (still warm from the summer months).
Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Come fall, it’s time to embrace all things hygge in Copenhagen — a leisurely coffee date in a cafe, an afternoon bike ride, or a few hours popping in and out of the galleries and shops on Jægersborggade. Avelino says that this season is “quieter and cooler” than the summer, and travelers won’t have to navigate around as many crowds. Another bonus of visiting in the autumn is the culinary scene. “Food here is very seasonal, and the fall brings a whole new menu to the restaurants and Torvehallerne , Copenhagen’s food market,” she says, adding that there are also several festivals and events to experience this time of year, including Culture Night and Halloween at Tivoli Gardens .
Laura D'Agostino/Travel + Leisure
Ibiza’s reputation as a summer party destination is known around the world, but Whiteside says fall on the Spanish island is “beautiful and calm” and the “perfect time to enjoy its silky white-sand beaches, rugged stretches of clifftop, and endless secret calas.” The weather is still relatively pleasant — though not ideal sunbathing conditions — and you can rent boats, go snorkeling, or attend one of the “closing parties” marking the end of the summer season. If you’re hoping to spend as much time outside as possible, Whiteside has a few favorite spots he recommends: Sa Figuera Borda , he says, is an “ideal sunset lookout point,” and “you’re guaranteed tranquility and unspoiled views” at Ses Salines Natural Park .
Scottish Highlands
Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure
There is perhaps no destination that does fall season better than the Scottish Highlands. The days may be getting shorter this far north, but, says Avelino, “the late autumnal mornings generally have a beautiful floating mist.” Plus, the annoying midges are gone and an array of reds, oranges, and yellows dot the majestic landscape. To cover as much ground as possible — and see popular spots like Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Glencoe, and the Eilean Donan Castle — start your journey in Edinburgh, head up through the Cairngorms National Park and up to Inverness, then circle over to the Isle of Skye and back through Glasgow.
Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure
You don’t have to wait until the dead of winter to see the northern lights in Norway . “During the fall season, the nights are longer and the skies are often clear,” says Avelino, who adds that this time of year also allows travelers to experience a warmer climate in Southern Norway and catch a bit of snow in Northern Norway. And if you’re hoping for a glimpse of gorgeous Norwegian fall foliage? You’re in luck; she suggests riding the Flåm Railway “for the best views of shades of red, orange, and yellow.”
South Tyrol
There are quite a few reasons to plan a fall trip to South Tyrol , a province in northeast Italy tucked between Switzerland and Austria. Marmol says this season is great for active travel, discovering the local wine culture, and treating yourself to a stay at one of the region’s wellness resorts (she recommends Palace Merano ). The hiking is particularly good in October; if you time your adventure right, you may be able to witness a show-stopping natural phenomenon. At sunset, the peaks and pinnacles appear orange, pink, red, or violet — what’s known as the “glow of the Dolomites.”
French Riviera
Whiteside says the French Riviera is “perfect for a post-summer getaway.” The Côte d'Azur includes popular spots like Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco, but he says Saint-Tropez is a must-visit for those who are “passionate about boating or water sports or are simply a fan of beautiful ocean views.” Even if you can’t make it to the famous sailing regatta, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez , in late September and early October, Saint-Tropez is worth an autumn visit. Most days will have pleasant temperatures, and the ocean will still be warm enough for swimming.
Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure
Summer may be over, but the Greek Islands throughout the Aegean and Ionian seas continue to beckon to travelers well into the fall. Greece also tends to be more affordable and less crowded this time of year, so you’ll have your pick of where to go. Marmol shares that Paros is one of her favorites and recommends treating it as a base camp for further exploration. After spending a couple of days in the island’s two main towns, Parikia and Naousa, plan out a few day trips to closer islands such as Antiparos , Naxos, and Mykonos.
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Spain Is the Best Country in Europe, Zoe British journalist Zoe Strimpel does Spain dirt. Allow me to disabuse her of some her misconceptions.
B ritish journalist Zoe Strimpel has written a column against Spain in The Spectator . I don’t know, I wouldn’t want to jump the gun, but it sounds like Strimpel, after visiting us, is not “another satisfied customer.” Well, you will understand that I just had to revisit some of her statements here. I had planned to argue with her over her insults and lies, but I’ve ended up falling in love. I love toxicity. Let’s see:
That is true. There is a lot of pickpocketing. Especially among foreign columnists.
Thanks to a host of savvy media stories, we’re now supposed to think of Spain not just in terms of package holidays, sangria, and Catholicism but also as chic, romantic, stylishly left-wing.
I don’t know who sold you that merchandise, Zoe, but it’s broken. Leftism and stylish are antonyms. Let me explain: for me, James Stewart was stylish, not Judith Butler. Yes, we are festive, holidays, sangria, Catholicism, chic, and romanticism.
The cities are dire — some of the least appealing on the continent.
Spanish cities are beautiful. Some of the most appealing on the continent. You must, amiga mía, realize: that when it’s everyone who falls in love with Seville, Santiago, Valencia, or Salamanca but you, Zoe, maybe the problem is not with “everyone.”
My trips to Seville, Granada, and Córdoba as a kid were marred by the stink of drains in every room we slept in.
Really? Are you sure that your roommates remembered to use deodorant?
The baked, dull avenues of Madrid, the endless and fruitless quest for the best place for cured meat.
Madrid has some of the most majestic avenues in the world, watched over by a sky that only Velázquez, whom you can meet at the Prado museum (he’s dead, I mean his paintings), could capture. For the rest, it is very, very, very difficult to find a bar in Madrid where you get bad cured meat. To eat poorly in Spain is an endeavor that needs to be taken extremely seriously if you are to succeed.
Politically, Spain is nasty.
Don’t you believe it, Zoe. Let me know if you can recall any other nation going from dictatorship to democracy without firing a single shot, on the initiative of the politicians who held dictatorial power, then going on to celebrate a peaceful transition. We must not be so bad politically if we have achieved something unique in the world.
It’s got a loony left and right with far too much power.
I’m not going to deny that the left here is crazy, like all postmodern lefts. Does the right have too much power? No, honey, otherwise our economy would be doing just fine for once, damn it. We’re just a great nation in the hands of a moron. In that sense, we’re even.
I’d give special mention to its knee-jerk hatred of Israel.
If you talked to people on the street you would know that only the extreme left political elites are pro-Palestinian, they love any terrorism, but this is not exclusive to Spain. Israel and Spain have a long tradition of anti-terrorist cooperation. We have particularly enjoyed the mass sex change operation of Hezbollah terrorists.
country’s rambunctious anti-tourism?
Oh dear, don’t tell me you’ve visited Barcelona! Why did you do that? For decades, the Catalan political elite have hated everyone because they think they are a superior race, and they engage in anti-tourist nonsense. Don’t worry, we’re fixing it. If instead of Barcelona you had visited Madrid, San Sebastian, La Coruna, or Cadiz you would know that it’s hard to find a more open, fun, and welcoming country.
Barcelona is a bewildering tundra of tat and dive bars…
You should have visited it a few decades ago, before enemies of Spain like you took over and screwed up the region.
… dotted with the ugliest architecture on earth – that of Gaudi.
Call me perceptive, if you will, but I suspect you’re not too keen on Gaudi’s artistic talent.
It’s got a bang average beach.
Do-it-yourself tip: try the Bay of Biscay for beaches.
overpriced food.
Really? Since when in your native London do they give it away?
And you’ll get pickpocketed as a bonus.
Spanish history is also horrid if one begins with the Inquisition, the bloodiest, most sadistic, most pathological manifestation of Catholic dogma in Europe.
Calm down, Zoe. Have a glass of water, you’ve got a bit of Black Legend stuck in your throat.
and moves through to Franco and the long love affair with fascism.
Franco decided that Spain would remain neutral in WWII. Maybe he should have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Jokes aside, whether you like it or not, he was a dictator acclaimed by the people until his death, peacefully, in bed. I don’t know what your history book says, but thanks to Franco, Spain became a retaining wall against Stalinism, which otherwise would have swept through Europe. If it had happened, probably, neither you nor I could be writing this now. Instead of educating yourself with The Guardian , try reading Stanley Payne one day.
And what of a great Spanish literature — is there one? I mean other than Cervantes ?
Not at all, Zoe. The only thing we know to do with our hands is kill bulls. A word of advice at this point in your article: try putting down the bottle of whiskey when you write.
Bringing it all together is the bullfighting; slowly and cruelly torturing animals for sport in view of tens of thousands of baying onlookers.
For a moment, I wasn’t sure if you are describing the noble art of bullfighting, or what Madrid looks like every time your hooligan friends decide to pay us a visit to attend Champions League matches at the Bernabeu.
(bullfighting) This is not a tradition fit for the modern era.
You’re right. I’ll tell my bullfighter friends to trade the bullring for showing off their salami with a gay dance on TikTok.
I won’t be troubling Spain with my tourism any time soon.
Oh, Zoe. Don’t do that! I’m so sad. I was close to falling in love. How brief our love story has turned out to be. Just as I was about to invite you to dinner at an expensive, stinky, romantic restaurant, full of pictures of Gaudi, and decorated with bull’s heads! Anyway, another Spanish trait: we don’t hold grudges. I’d be delighted to show you this paradise on your next visit, if only you’d let me be your guide, my dear.
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With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K. offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains, Snowdonia National Park, and the Scottish Highlands) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters, the Lake District ...
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Spanish history is also horrid if one begins with the Inquisition, the bloodiest, most sadistic, most pathological manifestation of Catholic dogma in Europe. Calm down, Zoe.