best destinations for friends trip europe

27 of the best places to visit in Europe 

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

From sunny Greek Islands - like Amorgos (pictured) - to northerly capitals, here are Europe's best places to visit © imagIN.gr photography / Shutterstock

There is simply no way to tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, fascinating history and dazzling artistic and culinary diversity.

Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw: 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 with glens and lochs, the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence, and the Adriatic coastline speckled with thousands of islands. And those are  just the highlights.

Some of Europe's most popular spots have also felt the effects of overtourism in recent years, as increasing visitor numbers leave an impact on local populations, services and historic sites. Traveling off-season, supporting local businesses and researching the particulars of the issue in your chosen destination can help offset some of the problems.

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 it’s 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 the pick of the world’s theaters, restaurants , sports venues and shops, and you’ll be very reluctant to leave.

Planning a visit to London? Time it right with our seasonal guide

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 of the giants of 20th-century art.

Visiting Venice requires a delicate balance. Here are 25 things you need to know before you go

3. Paris, France

Get up close with an architectural icon

Designed as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World Fair), Paris ’ elegant art nouveau Eiffel Tower has become the defining fixture of the skyline.   The first floor is home to glitzy glass pavilions housing interactive exhibits; outside, peer down through the glass floor to the ground below. Visit at dusk for the best day and night views of the City of Light and make a toast at the sparkling champagne bar.

4. Rome, Italy

Classical ruins mixed with contemporary style

From the crumbling Colosseum to the ancient Forum and the 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 it’s a haunting spot: as you walk the cobbled paths, you can almost sense the ghosts in the air.

Ready to explore Rome? Here are the city's best experiences

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 the frontier of the Cold War. But reminders of Berlin 's divided past still remain: whether you’re passing the Brandenburg Gate , gazing at graffiti at the East Side Gallery or studying the exhibits at the DDR Museum , it’s an essential part of understanding what makes Germany’s capital. From there, it's time 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 are its historic ramparts , considered among the finest in the world, which surround luminous marble streets and finely ornamented buildings. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the walls are still remarkably intact today, 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.

Want to see more of Croatia? Follow our week-long itinerary

7. Prague, Czechia

An architectural central European jewel

The capital of the Czechia  is one of Europe’s most alluring and dynamic places. For all its modern verve, some parts of the city have hardly changed since medieval times – cobbled cul-de-sacs twist through the Old Town, framed by teetering townhouses, baroque buildings and graceful bridges. And if castles are your thing, Prague has an absolute beauty: a 1000-year-old fortress covering around 7 hectares – the world’s largest ancient castle complex.

Make sure to try these quintessential Prague experiences

8. Vienna, Austria

Grand heart of a former empire

The monumentally graceful Hofburg whisks you back to the age of empires in Vienna as you marvel at the treasury’s imperial crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Riding School and the chandelier-lit apartments fit for Empress Elisabeth. The palace, a legacy of the 640-year Habsburg era, 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 Amsterdammers love the water is an understatement. Stroll next to the canals and check out some of the thousands of houseboats. Or better still, go for a ride. From boat level you’ll see a whole new set of architectural details, such as the ornamentation bedecking the bridges. And when you pass the appealing canalside cafe terraces, mark the location for a later return.

Planning your stay in Amsterdam? Here's our guide to the city's best neighborhoods  

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, Turkish-era thermal baths belch steam and the city's nightlife throbs till dawn most nights. 

Before you go to Budapest, read up on our tips from a local writer

11. Barcelona, Spain

See the genius of a visionary architect

Barcelona is famous for its Modernista architecture, much of which was designed by 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 experiments and improbable angles. Even half completed, it’s a modern-day wonder.

Get ready to visit Barcelona with these important things to know before you go  

12. Lisbon, Portugal

Soulful city armed with Gothic grit

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. Pause at cozy taverns filled with easygoing chatter, with the scent of chargrilled sardines and the mournful rhythms of fado drifting in the breeze.

Plan the right time for your visit to Lisbon with our seasonal guide

13. The Scottish Highlands

Scenic grandeur and echoes of the past

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands . From the regal charm of Royal Deeside, via the brooding majesty of Glen Coe, to 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 the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and romantic hotels, and you have an unforgettable corner of Scotland . 

Exploring more of Scotland? Here are our top road trips

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 , in Dublin you’re never far from a literary or historic sight. And then there are the city’s pubs : there are few better places to down a pint than Dublin, and you can even make a pilgrimage to the original Guinness brewery . Either way, you’ll surely make a few Irish friends along the way. 

See the best of Dublin with our guide to the city's top things to do

15. Florence and Tuscany, Italy

Italy’s most romanticized region

The gently rolling 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. And there’s Florence , home to what UNESCO describes as "the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world". It’s a city packed with blockbuster museums, elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes.

Experience the best of Tuscany with our tips for first-time visitors

16. Ruins of Pompeii, Italy

Ancient city destroyed and preserved by Vesuvius

Frozen in its death throes, the sprawling, time-warped ruins of Pompeii hurtle you 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets, lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters and even an ancient brothel. Then, in the eerie stillness, with your eye on ominous Mt Vesuvius, ponder the town’s final hours when the skies grew dark and heavy with volcanic ash.

17. Andalucía, Spain

Vibrant cities studded with impressive architecture

Andalucía , ancient al-Andalus, is awash with glorious architecture that dates back to the eight centuries of Moorish rule that ended in 1492. Granada , Córdoba and Seville are the high points of a journey of extraordinary riches. In Granada, the palace complex of the Alhambra , in particular, is close to perfection, and perhaps one of the most impressive works of Islamic art anywhere in the world. Put simply, this is Spain ’s most beautiful monument.

18. Reykjavík, Iceland

The world’s most northerly capital

Most Icelanders live in Reykjavík and even on the shortest visit you’ll be struck by how quirky and creative the population is. Despite being on the northern margin of Europe, the locals have crafted a town packed with captivating art, rich cuisine and an epic music scene. Learn about a history stretching back to the Vikings and use the city as a base for trips to Iceland’s amazing natural wonders.

Here's how to experience the best of Iceland

19. Copenhagen, Denmark

Coolest 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 sports 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. 

20. Provence, France

Gallic charm in the south of France

For many people, the pastoral landscapes of Provence are a French fantasy come true. Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, hilltop villages, legendary wines, bustling markets and a balmy climate. For decades, it’s been a hot spot for vacationers and second-homers, inspired by the vision of the rustic good life.

Want to see more of France? Here's our guide to the country's best things to do

21. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Hike, ski and admire these postcard-perfect peaks

The stirring ramparts of the Swiss Alps grace chocolate bar wrappers and evoke stereotypical Heidi scenes, but nothing prepares you for their allure up close. The most famous summit, the Matterhorn, is a mesmerizing peak that looms above the timber-chalet-filled Swiss 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 and an ancient crossroads of civilizations, Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities. The historical highlights cluster in Sultanahmet – the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , Topkapı Palace and Grand Bazaar – with the vast  Süleymaniye Mosque  crowning a hilltop in Eminönü.

Find your way around İstanbul with our neighborhood guide

23. Athens, Greece

Monument-strewn capital of Ancient Greece

Greece has ancient monuments at seemingly every turn, but it’s in Athens where the greatest and most iconic still stand. 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.

24. Schloss Neuschwanstein, Germany

Fairy-tale castle in a fairy-tale setting

Rising from Alpine foothills in the heart of Bavaria , the 19th-century Schloss Neuschwanstein seems to spring from a child’s imagination of the perfect castle. Its pencil-thin turrets, vertiginous walls and glorious setting make it one of Europe’s most recognizable structures, the prototype for many a Disney castle.

25. Greek Islands, Greece

Whitewashed Mediterranean villages above a turquoise sea

Wherever you land, the Greek Islands grab your attention and don’t let go. While popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos have undoubtedly suffered under the weight of overtourism, there are plenty of others to explore  that offer more off-the-beaten path experiences. Take in the lush Ionian Islands  or the far-flung Dodecanese  — whatever you choose, you're in for an incredible experience. 

26. Ring of Kerry, Ireland

A wild and medieval Irish road trip

There’s nowhere quite like Ireland , and the Ring of Kerry , a 179km (111-mile) route through the Iveragh Peninsula, captures all the essential elements of Irish charm on one memorable circuit. Wild and craggy landscapes frame isolated beaches, evocative ruined fortresses stand sentinel over similarly wild Atlantic seas, and windswept mountains watch over villages and islands that could be nowhere else on earth but here.

27. Oslo, Norway

Scandinavia’s gateway to the fjords

Oslo is doing everything it can to claim the prize of Europe’s capital of contemporary style. The 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 modern Norway. So impressive are the results, that Oslo has become so much more than a mere stopover on the road to the fjords.

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12 best places to travel with friends in Europe

June, 07 2023 ( Updated May, 28 2024)

From the best cities for nightlife in Europe to the best water parks and hubs for adventure seekers and some unlikely jewels that are gaining popularity, our 2023-24 curated travel with friends list will inspire you to pack your bags right away.  

Read on and check out our top 12 recommendations for the best places to travel with friends! 

Everybody knows Ibiza, Berlin, London and Mykonos but we can recommend to you some top party cities in Europe you probably haven’t thought of. 

1. Marbella, Spain

Puerto banús harbour in marbella city: one of the most expensive and exclusive area of marbella , located on the costa del sol , marbella is one of the best nightlife destinations in europe, known for its glamorous and upscale night scenes. the city boasts exclusive clubs, beachfront venues, and luxury establishments that cater to a high-end clientele, out of which puerto banús is the main hub for upscale nightlife in marbella.  however, for a little break from all that glamour, the rooftop bars and late-night venues of la malagueta in málaga , attract both locals and tourists.  .

With the diverse range of holiday rentals on Costa del Sol, you can stay anywhere you like, be it tranquil towns like Estepona or party hubs like Marbella! 

2. Palermo, Italy

  mondello’s white sand beach and clear waters, in palermo, sicily .

In Sicily, Palermo offers the perfect blend of art and culture along with a unique nightlife experience. The city’s mix of trendy bars, traditional taverns, and open-air clubs often feature live music performances and DJs. Plus, after spending the night partying, in the morning you can cool off in the beautiful Sicilian Sea or relax in beautiful holiday rentals like  Alcamo Pool House , located close to Palermo to avoid the crowds in high season. 

3. Zagreb, Croatia  

As the capital city of Croatia, Zagreb not only satisfies at the level of food, art, gorgeous architecture and culture but also as one of the best cities for nightlife in Croatia. The city has a diverse range of bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to various tastes. The Tkalčićeva Street area and the neighborhood of Jarun are popular nightlife hotspots, and from Zagreb, you can easily explore the heart of Continental Croatia in short 1-2-hour drives.  

4. St. Julian, Malta  

Malta has a lively nightlife scene, particularly in Paceville , which is its nightlife hub located in the popular coastal town of St. Julian's. Paceville is known for its vibrant atmosphere, numerous bars, clubs, and late-night venues. The area attracts a young and energetic crowd, offering a diverse range of music genres and entertainment options. Plus, the Maltese Archipelago also has one of the most amazing and least crowded summer destination in Europe . So, whether you're looking for bustling clubs or relaxed bars, Malta provides many opportunities for an enjoyable night out.   

5. Nice, France 

A romantic night view of the promenade des anglais, nice .

Located on the French Riviera , Nice offers a lively nightlife with a touch of glamour and many things to enjoy till the break of dawn, therefore, it qualifies as one of the best nightlife destinations on the French Riviera on our list. Among other places, Promenade des Anglais and the Old Town ( Vieux Nice ) are popular areas for barhopping, enjoying live music, and experiencing the vibrant street scene along with old-school clubs and modern underground bars. You can also find tons of things to do in the city during daytime. 

If you don't want to miss out on cooling off during the European summer heat or love adventure into nature, then below are our top choices for places that offer some of the best adventure parks and the best water parks for adults in Europe! 

6. Lake Garda, Italy 

Aerial view of the lovely peschiera del garda, located close to cavour waterpark .

Italy may not be widely known for its water parks, but there are a few notable options that offer fun experiences for adults. Located near Lake Garda , Cavour the Waterpark is a family-friendly park that also caters to adults. It offers various slides and attractions, including a 6-lane multi-track water slide and the thrilling Kamikaze slide. The park also features relaxation areas, a whirlpool tub and even a sandy beach. Plus, Lake Garda is an excellent option for those who want to explore the beautiful natural surroundings , relax in spas or indulge in sports like rock climbing, hiking or biking. 

7. Istria, Croatia  

The Istria region of Croatia not only offers history, culture and untouched nature, but also several water parks as well as theme parks. Aquapark Istralandia is one of the largest water parks in Croatia and features high-speed water slides, tube slides, and family slides, a wave pool, a hydromassage pool and relaxation areas with sunbeds and cabanas. Another one is Aquapark Aquacolors in Poreč . Meanwhile for adventure lovers, Glavani Park , in Barban offers a variety of thrilling activities, meanwhile, Zipline Pazinska Jama , located near the town of Pazin , offers adrenaline-pumping experience on one of the longest ziplines in Europe! 

Tip: Istria is home to places like Rovinj and Pula, which are known for their vibrant bars and growing nightlife! 

8. Lake Bohinj, Slovenia 

If you and your friends are more of the mountain types and after hiking you want to relax a bit, Slovenia's water parks are for you. Aquapark Bohinj is in Bohinjska Bistrica and offers a range of water-based activities for adults, including indoor and outdoor pools, slides, saunas, whirlpools, a wellness area and even a salt room. The park is known for its beautiful mountain views and tranquil setting. You can book your comfortable vacation rental in the Thermal Pannonian Slovenia . 

9. Lake Bled, Slovenia 

Located in the picturesque town of Bled , Bled Adventure Park offers various thrilling activities for all ages. It features 81 attractions and 5 difficulty levels. Before starting, the guides help you get your safety gear properly fitted. After a brief safety course, you can face the challenges on your own, but the instructors are at all times available for tips. The park is set amidst the beautiful surroundings of Lake Bled and the Julian Alps. In summer, you can take a ride on the sledding track that is situated on the ski slope, while in winter you can enjoy the Straža ski slope. Here you can also check out the gorgeous Lake Bled and other things to do around with friends on a one-day trip to the lake ! 

If you and your friends are more music and festival lovers, you are in the right place. Indeed, Europe is well known for its music festivals, especially the electronic dance music ones.  

10. Valletta, Malta 

Typical narrow streets with colourful balconies in valletta, malta  .

The Isle of MTV Malta is an annual music festival that has been held in Malta. The event is organized by MTV and attracts a large crowd of music fans. The festival features live performances by internationally renowned artists, including popular pop, rock, and electronic acts, the ideal festival to suit all tastes. The festival takes place in Floriana , which is close to Valletta , the capital city of Malta with a vibrant nightlife experience. Valletta's streets come alive at night with bars, wine bars, and live music venues. Amongst these, Strait Street is a historic one known for its nightlife, offering a mix of bars, clubs, and cultural events! 

11. West Coast Belgium, Belgium  

Among the best EDM festivals in Europe , Tomorrowland is arguably the most iconic and influential EDM festival in the world. It features an impressive lineup of electronic music superstars across various sub-genres, along with breathtaking stages, immersive decorations, and a magical atmosphere. The festival is held in Boom, only 1 hour and half from the Belgium West Coast , where cities like Knokke attract elite tourists, beach lovers and event artists, and offer holiday rentals right on the seashore!  

12. Cannes, France 

While Cannes   is famous for its film festival, it also offers a variety of upscale bars, beach clubs, and exclusive venues, attracting a glamorous and sophisticated crowd year-round.  But during August, Cannes holds the ultimate French Beach Party of all time: the Plage Electro   - an EDM festival, where 15h of non-stop music will take hold of the audience as artists like DJ Snake, Rita Warhol and Yuz Boy take up the stage! You can also book your stay in Cannes right now to not miss out on the festival that attracts a crowd of almost 54,000! 

Now you will be spoilt for the choice of which destination to choose. Are you ready to pack your bags? 

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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

See also: Things to do in Paris , Best day trips from Paris , Best tourist attractions in Paris , Louvre Museum tickets price , Eiffel Tower tickets price , Best Paris night tours , Best free walking tours , Hop on hop off Paris bus tours , Cheap Disneyland Paris tickets , Best Paris Seine River cruises , Catacombs Paris tickets price , Musée d’Orsay Tickets price , Lido Paris tickets price , PSG Experience stadium tour tickets

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.

• Lisbon tours

See also: Things to do in Lisbon , Best tourist attractions in Lisbon , dBest  day trips from Lisbon , Pena Palace Sintra tickets

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

See also: Things to do in Amsterdam , Best day trips from Amsterdam , Best tourist attractions in Amsterdam , Best museums in Amsterdam , Van Gogh Museum last minute tickets , Best Amsterdam canal cruises , Rijksmuseum tickets price

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.

See also: Vatican Museum tickets , Vatican Museum early access tickets , Vatican Museum last minute tickets , Best Vatican tours , Papal audience tickets , Sistine Chapel early access tickets , St Peter’s Basilica skip the line tickets

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!

• Barcelona tours

See also: Things to do in Barcelona , Best tourist attractions in Barcelona , Best day trips from Barcelona , Sagrada Familia tickets price , Best Barcelona free walking tours , Best places to visit in Spain

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!

35 Best Weekend Trips in Europe (Plus Where to Stay)

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Home » 35 Best Weekend Trips in Europe (Plus Where to Stay)

Have you been wondering about the best weekend trips in Europe? I’ve got you covered!

Weekend trips in Europe can be a truly magical experience. From the sunny beaches of Greece to the rolling hills of Italy, our travels have taken us through many European destinations.

But of course, we cannot have covered every destination in Europe for this list so we have had a little help!

All of the 35 best European weekend breaks have been hand-selected by experienced travel bloggers who know all about the best spots for a weekend getaway.

All of the destinations are places that are within easy reach and offer incredible experiences that you’ll always remember. Ready for your next adventure? Keep reading and find out our selection of the 35 best weekend trips in Europe – perfect for those looking for an exciting escape!

35 of The Best Weekend Trips in Europe

With 35 best cities for a weekend trip in Europe to choose from, it can be difficult to pick the right one.

From culture-filled Prague to historical Rome, our list of must-see European cities offers something special for every type of traveler.

1. Paris, France

Paris is one of the most romantic getaways in Europe.

With its iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, winding cobblestone streets, and charming cafes, it’s easy to see why Paris is a top destination for couples looking for an unforgettable weekend.

Whether it’s exploring the City of Light together or snuggling up during a picnic in one of its many public gardens, Paris offers endless activities and memories that you’ll keep forever.

For those dreaming of a weekend Europe trips full of romance and adventure, look no further than Paris!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Paris:

• Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access : Discover the beauty of Paris from new heights. Enjoy access to the 2nd floor and upgrade for breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.
• Louvre Reserved Access and Boat Cruise : Explore the iconic Louvre Museum with a reserved access ticket and cruise the River Seine anytime to experience the city from its historic waterway.

How to get to Paris

Traveling to Paris is a breeze with two major airports: Charles de Gaulle and Orly.

Both are conveniently located near the city center and connected by RER trains. Tickets for the train cost around €10.

Where to stay in Paris

The Idol Hotel has all the amenities you want, with impeccable service.

Conveniently located near Opéra Garnier and Pigalle for when you are out and about sight seeing.

When back at the hotel enjoy the sun terrace or indulge in room service with a minibar stocked with snacks for you and the kids!

2. Venice, Italy

Venice is one of the best cities for a weekend trip in Europe.

With its winding canals, fascinating architecture, delicious food, and beautiful art and culture, it’s no wonder why Venice tops many lists of best weekend destinations in Europe.

From the sweeping views from San Giorgio Maggiore to the bustling Piazza San Marco and historic churches throughout the city, Venice is an unmissable destination.

Must-see sights of Venice include Rialto Bridge, the San Marco Piazza, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

It’s no surprise that millions of visitors flock to this unique city each year, it truly has something for everyone!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Venice:

• Grand Canal Gondola Ride : Experience the essence of Venice as you explore hidden waterways near the Grand Canal on a picturesque gondola ride. Listen to in-app commentary to learn about the city as you admire the sights.
• St. Mark’s Basilica Fast-Track Entry and Audio Guide : Explore the beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice with a skip-the-line ticket. Learn fascinating facts about the artwork inside using an audio tour on your mobile device.

How to get to Venice

Venice has the small Marco Polo Venice Airport, where you can take a bus or boat into the city.

The best way to arrive is by train to the Santa Lucia Train Station, located on the northwestern edge.

There’s also a bus terminal and parking garages nearby at Piazzale Roma.

Where to stay in Venice

The B&B Ca’ Bonvicini is a lovely B&B in the heart of Venice! Situated in a tranquil yet convenient location near all attractions.

Just a 7-minute walk from the renowned Rialto Bridge, this property features spacious Venetian-style rooms, some with canal views.

Countless piazzas, restaurants, galleries, and bars are just steps away in any direction!

3. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre , Italy is the perfect city for a weekend trip in Europe.

It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline, crystal clear waters, and vibrant villages that are sure to engage and delight any traveler.

For anyone looking for an exciting and unique cultural experience, Cinque Terre can provide.

With its picturesque beauty and vibrant cuisine, it’s no surprise that this destination is one of the most popular stops on European city trips.

Spend your weekend exploring these five pastel colored villages and you’ll be sure to make memories that will last a lifetime!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Cinque Terre:

• Monterosso Kayak and Snorkeling Tour : Explore the stunning Monterosso coast, kayaking with a local guide. Enjoy scenic views, snorkel in a protected bay, and embrace the wildlife.
• Tour Cinque Terre From La Spezia by Train with Limoncino : Explore Cinque Terre villages on a day trip from La Spezia cruise terminal. Hop on a train to visit Vernazza, Monterosso, and Riomaggiore with a guide.

How to get to Cinque Terre

The closest airport to Cinque Terre is Pisa. Trains offer the easiest transportation option within and to Cinque Terre. Trenitalia also provides direct connections to La Spezia from Rome and Florence.

Once in Cinque Terre, the Cinque Terre Express train runs between La Spezia and Levanto, stopping at each village in Sestri Levante.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre

Nestled amidst vineyards and olive trees, high above Levanto, the gateway to Cinque Terre, is Al Terra di Mare .

Certain rooms boast panoramic valley or sea views, alongside a private balcony or terrace.

Hotel Al Terra Di Mare is located 2.3 km from Levanto center and 2 km from the train station.

4. Rome, Italy

Rome is a city that offers something for everyone.

From the art and architecture to the food and culture, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best cities in Europe for weekend trips.

Whether you’re looking for an artsy getaway or an adventure-filled trip, Rome has it all.

With its stunning monuments, delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.

So if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life for a few days – Rome is the perfect destination.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Rome:

• Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill : Get priority access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill on a guided tour. Step into the world of gladiators and emperors as you journey back to ancient Rome.
• Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel Tour & Basilica Skip-the-Line Entry : Explore the Vatican Museums’ art collection on a tour with an art historian guide. Optional entry to Castle Gandolfo and St Peter’s Basilica. Admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel.
• And for if you want to get out of Rome for a day tour, check out our recommendations of the best Pompeii day trips from Rome .

How to get to Rome

To reach Rome, the most convenient options are by plane or train. Rome has two airports: Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino.

The main international airport is FCO. Both airports are about 30-40 minutes from the city center.

From the airport, you can easily take a train or Metro into the city center.

Where to stay in Rome

Hotel Cristoforo Colombo is set in Rome’s EUR district and close to Rome’s GRA Ring Road, offering complete convenience for all your shopping needs.

If you are visiting in the summer months, the outdoor pool is also wonderful for the kids!

5. Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is a beautiful destination that offers one of the best Europe weekend breaks.

The picturesque setting features postcard-perfect views and a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Europe.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure, there’s something to suit every taste.

With plenty of activities and attractions, from relaxing boat trips to thrilling cable car rides, Lake Como is the perfect option for your next Europe weekend break.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Lake Como:

• Lugano & Bellagio Day Trip & Scenic Lake Cruise : Go from Como to Lugano, Cadenabbia, and Bellagio on a day trip. Explore two glamorous countries, two charming lakes, and two ravishing shopping districts.
• Guided City Walking Tour with Cruise Ticket : Explore picturesque piazzas, the local cathedral, and iconic lakeside villas on a guided tour of Como by land and lake.

How to get to Lake Como

To reach Lake Como, take a train from Milan Centrale Station or Milan Nord Cadorna to either Como San Giovanni (Como’s main station) or Como Nord Lago. The closest airport is in Milan.

Where to stay in Lake Como

Located on the northwestern shore in the small town of San Vito, Casa Olea Hotel offers humble lodging.

Windows offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, blending curated shapes and sizes. Relax in a bath while admiring a private garden or gaze at the dimly lit Chiesa San Vito under the moonlight.

6. Zakopane, Poland

Poland is an underrated European country , and Zakopane is a hidden gem in this country!

Zakopane is an incredible place to visit on a weekend getaway, particularly for those exploring Europe.

From the stunning architecture of the old town to the vibrant culture and lively nightlife, Zakopane offers something special you won’t find in many other cities.

It has hundreds of restaurants, so you’re always spoilt for choice.

Whether you want to join a pub crawl or explore the city’s galleries and monuments, this European city is sure to fill any traveler’s itinerary with a wealth of activities and sights in Zakopane .

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Zakopane:

• Relax, Explore and Conquer Zakopane’s Peaks : Experience Zakopane’s allure in a day of relaxation & adventure! Enjoy thermal baths, explore the charming city, and conquer the heights of Tatras.

How to get to Zakopane

Zakopane is located about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive South of Krakow and there are a number of ways to get there, including taking public transport such as a bus or a train ride.

Alternatively, you can choose to drive there directly or take a day tour.

Where to stay in Zakopane

Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences is a short walk from Krupówki, the city’s main street.

The onsite spa offers modern spa facilities, including steam and Turkish saunas.

Guests can enjoy skiing and cycling activities in and around Zakopane.

7. Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is a small Austrian village located in the Salzkammergut region near the mountains.

It is known to be one of the most beautiful and charming places on Earth, with its traditional alpine houses, crystal clear lake, and breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains.

Hallstatt is also considered as a great place for weekend trips because it offers plenty of activities such as exploring salt mines and the ancient churches.

Take a boat ride across Lake Hallstatt and visit the nearby Dachstein Ice Cave – all of which guarantee an unforgettable experience.

So if you’re looking for one of the best European weekend trips, add Hallstatt to your list!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Hallstatt:

• Self-Guided Private Tour of Hallstatt : Explore Hallstatt, Austria’s most scenic town, on a self-guided tour. Discover the top photo spots and iconic landmarks.
• City Highlights Guided Walking Tour inlcuding the Salt Mine (Group of 4) : Explore Hallstatt on a pleasant guided walking tour. Visit a salt mine, admire a 12th-century Catholic church, pass by the Bone House, and learn about the history of Hallstatt. Picture-perfect experience guaranteed!

How to get to Hallstatt

You can reach Hallstatt by either road or rail. If you prefer driving or taking the bus, the major starting points are Vienna, Salzburg (Hallstatt is a really easy day trip from Salzburg), and Munich.

There is a train station at Hallstatt, but the train journey is a lot longer than the journey by car or bus.

Where to stay in Hallstatt

Seehotel Grüner Baum is located right next to the lake and has been running for a while now.

Many of the rooms are located right next to the lake and it is recommended to book in advance. There’s a free shuttle to the town too!

8. Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos (or Zante) is one of the most beautiful and stunning islands in Europe.

With its pure white beaches, unspoiled nature, and crystal clear blue waters, it’s no wonder that Zakynthos is one of the best weekend breaks in Europe for a relaxing getaway.

From boat trips to the famous Blue Caves to discovering local taverns, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on this idyllic Greek island.

And if you’re looking for something more laid-back, Zakynthos also offers some of the best sunsets in Europe – perfect for taking a moment to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

So if you’re looking for the perfect weekend break in Europe that combines relaxation and adventure, head to Zakynthos!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Zakynthos:

• Glass Bottom Speed Boat Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves & Viewpoint: Take a guided minibus tour to Zakynthos’ northern landmarks, including the Navagio Viewpoint. Explore the famous Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves on a glass-bottom speedboat.
• Navagio Shipwreck Beach Excursion by Boat : The trip stops at Shipwreck Beach for photos, explores the best blue caves (Sfogio and White Beach), and visits Porto Steniti, and Poseidon’s profile. Also, enjoy 3 swimming stops!

How to get to Zakynthos

Zakynthos is known for its convenient airport. You can fly from Athens, about a 1-hour journey, or take a ferry from Kyllini in mainland Greece, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Where to stay in Zakynthos

Ionian Hill Hotel is a short 5-minute walk from the beach, Ionian Hill is located on the outskirts of Argassi in Zakynthos.

With accommodations offering balcony views of the garden or Ionian Sea, the property includes a pool and snack bar.

9. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a stunningly beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea, the perfect destination for a romantic weekend break with your significant other, no matter what time of year you visit Santorini .

With its white-washed villages, picture-perfect sunsets, and cobalt blue waters, it’s easy to see why this iconic Greek island is continually rated as one of the best weekend breaks in Europe.

Santorini offers time to relax on secluded beaches or exciting adventures exploring winding streets and vibrant markets.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Santorini:

• Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit : Enjoy a cruise to Santorini’s volcanic islands. Take a dip in hot springs, marvel at volcano views, and explore Thirassia and Oia’s charming villages.
• Akrotiri Archaeological Site Entry Ticket : Explore the ancient city, buried in volcanic ash. Visit the remarkably preserved site often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean”.
• Luxury Small Group Catamaran with Meal & Open Bar : Join a small group for a morning or sunset catamaran sail around the Santorini caldera! Enjoy an open bar, snorkeling, swimming in hot springs, and a delicious Greek meal.

For more inspiration, we have a complete list of places in Greece to visit .

How to get to Santorini

Santorini has an international airport and can be reached by plane from Athens and various European cities. The island is also connected to Athens by ferry.

To reach Santorini from other islands like Mykonos and Paros, the ferry is the sole direct connection option available.

Where to stay in Santorini

Whether you are looking for the best hotels in Santorini with pools , or just want an amazing hotel on the beach there is a hotel for all travelers!

Kalestesia Suites is perched atop Akrotiri Hill, just 350 meters from Akrotiri village and 800 meters from the main square.

Offering stunning views of the volcano, Caldera, and Santorini, some rooms even boast their own heated plunge pools!

10. Taormina, Italy

Taormina is one of the best European weekend trips for people looking to explore the beauty of the Italian coast

With its stunning views of Mount Etna, charming cobblestone streets, and elegant restaurants, it’s easy to see why so many travelers choose to spend their weekends in this picturesque town.

With a variety of activities to do in Taormina , from exploring ancient ruins to taking part in outdoor sports, there’s something for everyone who visits Taormina.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Taormina:

• Food and Wine Walking Tour : Join a local guide for an evening walking tour of Taormina. Discover the best places to eat and drink while sampling typical Sicilian foods and fine regional wines.
• Mount Etna Guided Volcano Summit Hiking Tour with Cable Car : Hike Mount Etna’s summit craters, guided by professionals. Ride a cable car to the starting point and trek for 3.5 hours amidst breathtaking scenery.
• Ancient Theater Entry Ticket and Guided Tour : Visit the Ancient Theater of Taormina, one of Italy’s largest show venues. Unearth the wonders of this renowned archaeological site.

How to get to Taormina

Getting to Taormina is easy as there are frequent direct flights from major cities across Europe, making it a great choice for a quick getaway!

Where to stay in Taormina

Hotel Corallo , situated in Taormina Mare, offers enchanting views of the Bay of Naxos and Cape Taormina from the guestrooms and the restaurant.

Steps away from the hotel, you can relax on the beautiful beach of Baia di Villagonia when not exploring the area.

11. Corfu, Greece

Corfu is one of the best weekend getaways in Europe for many reasons.

The beautiful beaches, stunning views, and plentiful activities to do in Corfu make it an ideal getaway spot.

The island has a unique blend of cultures, which can be appreciated through its fascinating architecture, rich cuisine, and local customs.

Spend your days exploring the old town or just sitting back and sipping on a glass of ouzo!

With its vibrant nightlife, delicious dishes, and amazing outdoor activities, Corfu is truly one of the best weekend getaways in Europe.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Corfu:

• Antipaxos & Paxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise : Embark on a day cruise from Corfu to the beautiful islands of Paxos and Antipaxos in the Ionian Sea. Witness the stunning views of the famous blue caves.
• Live Jazz Music at the Old Fortress : Uncover a hidden side of Corfu with music at a secret location. Experience the talents of local musicians near the old fortress in the harbor.

How to get to Corfu

To reach Corfu from mainland Greece, you can take a ferry or a plane.

There are flights to Corfu from various European countries, as well as seasonal ferry connections with 3 ports in Italy and a year-round ferry connection with 1 port in Albania.

Where to stay in Corfu

Dreams Corfu Resort & Spa is in the charming town of Gouvia, right on the Corfu Island seafront.

It’s perfect for families and couples seeking an all-inclusive Mediterranean getaway. Rooms range from double and family rooms to suites and bungalows.

This resort has a dedicated beach and offers a variety of water sports, there are 2 pools, including a family-friendly pool.

12. Nice, France

Nice is a small city on the French Riviera that punches well above its weight when it comes to quick getaways in Europe.

Located just 40 minutes away from Monaco, Nice is an ideal destination for those who want to experience all of the glamour and grandeur of the Riviera without spending too much time getting there.

Its beaches are perfect for sun-soaking, while its historic city center is full of idyllic cafes, restaurants, and shopping streets lined with art galleries and boutiques.

With a host of cultural activities in Nice including incredible music festivals and modern art installations, Nice offers something for everyone looking for quick getaways in Europe.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Nice:

• Culture, Wine & Food Old Town Guided Walking Tour : Join a walking tour of Nice Old Town to taste local produce like olive oils, regional wines, cheeses, bread, cold-cuts, fruits, and pastries in Castle Hill Park.
• Old Town Treasures Walking Tour : Explore Nice’s history on a guided walking tour in the medieval old town, Vieux-Nice. Discover the city’s story from Greek origins to Italian governors.

How to get to Nice

With an international airport just 8km from Nice’s center, flying is the fastest and easiest option.

A regular 20-minute bus service connects the airport and the city, ensuring quick arrival at your destination.

Where to stay in Nice

Aparthotel AMMI Nice Massena is located just 200 meters from Place Masséna and a quick 3-minute walk from the beach and the famous Promenade des Anglais.

The hotel is only a 15-minute walk from Nice Ville Train Station.

The nearest tramway stop is just 100 meters away, and the old town is within a 5-minute walk from Ajoupa.

13. Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy is a must-see for a weekend trip in Europe. With its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and Mediterranean climate, it’s easy to see why Florence is one of the best weekend trips in Europe.

Another great reason why Florence is great for a weekend trip is its small size, which means you can easily experience a lot within just two days!

Our kids loved that we could see a lot all within close proximity which means they did not have to walk too much when exploring.

From admiring the beauty of the iconic Duomo to exploring the Piazzas to dining on delicious Italian food or the best Gelato, Florence is the perfect destination whether traveling as a couple or as a family to Florence .

If you are a food lover, learn how to make your own gelato (and pasta, pizza) in a Florence cooking class .

So if you want to have an amazing European getaway make sure to add Florence to your list!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Florence:

• Skip the Line Entry to Brunelleschi’s Dome and Cathedral : Explore Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore and marvel at Brunelleschi’s Dome. Enjoy panoramic views of Florence from the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
• Michelangelo’s David Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket : Skip the line and experience Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery Museum in Florence which houses more sculptures by Michelangelo than any other place in the world. Explore this gem with access to all parts of the museum and an optional audio guide.

How to get to Florence

Getting to Florence is quite convenient and the popular choices are by plane, train, or car.

Florence has its own international airport (Amerigo Vespucci) and Pisa International Airport is just 50 km away.

Alternatively, Florence is a major high-speed railway hub with regular train connections throughout Italy. It is also located on the A1, the main Italian motorway connecting Milan and Naples.

Where to stay in Florence

The 4-star iQ Hotel Firenze features modern and spacious rooms with an onsite Pizzeria and Cocktail Bar serving Italian gourmet pizzas , appetizers, and cocktails.

It is conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from Florence Cathedral, Santa Maria Novella Station, and nearby attractions such as Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi Gallery.

The hotel also offers a fully equipped fitness area, an indoor boutique Spa, and an outdoor plunge pool.

Check out our local’s guide to areas to stay in Florence for the inside scoop!

14. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Contributed by The Spicy Journey

What attracts people towards Amsterdam, one of the most popular destinations in Europe, are the romantic canals, museums, parks, Dutch cuisine, Heineken beer, and the tulips!

There are also many exciting day trip opportunities to Zaanse Schans, Giethoorn, the Hague, Rotterdam, and other beautiful destinations in the Netherlands and Belgium.

What’s even more exciting is that it is completely feasible to cover all the major attractions within a  weekend trip to Amsterdam  and even see the countryside with the help of the Amsterdam and region travel card.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Amsterdam:

• Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour : Explore Anne Frank’s life on a walking tour of Amsterdam. Learn about her upbringing and the history of the Jewish Quarter and World War II from an expert guide.
• V an Gogh Museum Timed Entry Ticket : Experience the Van Gogh Museum! Explore hundreds of paintings, drawings, and letters by the Dutch master. Get tickets for your preferred time slot.
• Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option : Enjoy a canal cruise through the UNESCO Heritage listed Golden Age Canals of Amsterdam. See city highlights like the Skinny Bridge, Red Light District, and Old Harbor. Choose between a standard or deluxe tour with unlimited Dutch cheese, wine, and drinks.

How to get to Amsterdam

Amsterdam has one of the busiest international airports in Europe so travellers can fly into Amsterdam directly.

The Amsterdam airport is located 10 miles from the city center and you can take a local train or bus to reach the city center from the airport.

The city also has excellent train connectivity to the rest of Europe and the United Kingdom. 

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre  is located at the edge of the river IJ, one tram stop from the Amsterdam central station.

The hotel is also within walking distance of most of the sights in Amsterdam, making it the perfect base to explore the city.

The hotel’s fitness center, spa, restaurant, and amazing breakfast are an added bonus.

15. London, United Kingdom

Contributed by Linda on the Run

Are you planning the best weekend trip in Europe? If so, head to one of the most beautiful cities in the UK : London.

Not only can you quickly and easily access top attractions using the Tube but you will never run out of things to do during your London itinerary . 

So, start with a visit to Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Next, see where the Royals were crowned at Westminster Abbey. Also, take a photo in front of Big Ben and then walk along the Thames to the Tower of London. 

Once here, see the Crown Jewels and where Anne Boleyn lost her head before walking across Tower Bridge to Borough Market. This landmark has been around since the 12th century and is an amazing place to enjoy a London food tour . 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in London:

• Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket : Discover 1000 years of history at the Tower of London. See the Crown Jewels and gather captivating insights from the Yeoman Warders, the guardians of the Tower.
• Skip-the-Line Entry to The London Eye : Experience the thrill as you rise above the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Soar up to 135 meters on the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, enjoying mesmerizing 360-degree views of the city including Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London.

How to get to London

To get to London you can fly into Luton, Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, etc. Our top tip is to try to fly into Heathrow and take the Piccadilly line into central London.

Where to stay in London

The Tower Hotel London is an incredible place to stay with sweeping views of Tower Bridge right from your room.

Refined accommodations include in-room coffee makers as well as complimentary breakfast and all-day refreshments.

>>> Check out our post for London Hotels with rooftop pools and views!

16. Munich, Germany

Contributed by Big World Short Stories

Munich is the capital of the largest German state Bavaria. This German medieval city is a perfect destination for a weekend trip due to its size and cultural and historic heritage.

Some of the main attractions that you can explore within  2 days in Munich  are the  Neuschwanstein Castle  and the BMW Museum.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Munich:

• 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour of Munich : Discover vibrant Munich on a 3-hour guided bike tour whilst learning intriguing stories about the city’s history from your guide.
• An Evening of Bavarian Beer and Food Culture: Explore Munich’s food culture and indulge in traditional food and beer. Join a guided tour, visit the Oktoberfest Museum, and savor a delightful Bavarian dinner.

How to get to Munich

Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC) is the closest international airport to Munich. The easiest way to get from the airport to the city center of Munich is by train.

There are 2 train lines S8 and S1 connecting Munich airport and the city center. The trains leave every 10 minutes and take about 40 minutes to bring you to the city center. 

Where to stay in Munich

The best area to stay in Munich is called the Altstadt (the old town). The most famous and luxurious hotel in Munich Altstadt is the  Hotel Bayrischer Hof .

This iconic hotel has hosted many celebrities including Michael Jackson.

The rooftop terrace of the hotel overlooking the entire city is a great place to go dining or just enjoy a drink with a great view. 

17. Prague, Czech Republic

Contributed by Nats Travel

Being based in the heart of Europe, Prague is a great weekend destination. Easy and fast to reach from any European country.

You can visit Prague at any time of the year, and you will always find things to do there.

Prague is perfect for 2 days sightseeing important landmarks of the historic city. Walk on Wenceslas Square, and continue to the Old Town Square to see the Astronomical clock and Church of our Lady Before Tyn.

Head towards the Charles Bridge, the most important landmark in Prague from where you will have a stunning view. End your walk in Prague Castle.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Prague:

• Prague Foodie Tour : Do you love trying the traditional food of a country you visit? Then take this foodie tour to try the best of Czech cuisine.
• Skip-the-Line Prague Castle Tour with Local Guide : Explore the breathtaking beauty of Prague Castle on a 2.5-hour guided tour, available in both group and private options. Enjoy fast-track access, bypassing long ticket and security lines.
• Vltava River Night Cruise with Buffet : Experience the food and charm of Prague on a 3-hour dinner cruise. Admire illuminated historic monuments, including Prague Castle and the Dancing House on the Rašínovo embankment.

How to get to Prague

Traveling to Prague is straightforward. If you are coming by plane, you will fly to Vaclav Havel Airport. From the airport, you will take a bus and then a metro to get to the city center. It takes about 30-40 minutes to reach.

If you are coming by train, you will come to the main railway station (Hlavni Nadrazi) which is located inside the city. From there you can take a metro, tram, or walk depending on where is your hotel located.

Where to stay in Prague

When choosing a hotel, the best choice is the city center close to all the sights. You will love  THE MANES Boutique Hotel Prague . 

This modern hotel is close to the Vltava River where you can also find a kids’ playground on the island located on the river. Historical sights and public transportation are nearby.

18. Zurich, Switzerland

Contributed by Arzo Travels

Switzerland´s main city is easy to reach and located in the heart of Europe. However, this is not the only reason to spend a weekend in Zurich.

There are tons of things to do and see in  Zurich . Starting from a walk around Lake Zurich, strolling one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world – Bahnhofstrasse to exploring the old town.

Visit one of the many museums (including the very cool Lindt chocolate museum), or go on a day trip to see the impressive Alps in the nearby Lucerne or Bern regions.

And Zurich has the best nightlife in the country, while the after-drinks start after 5 pm, the nights are long with many bars and clubs to choose from.

But do not assume Zurich is only for adults who like to enjoy long nights – it is also a wonderful family-friendly city that offers plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for people of all ages.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Zurich:

• City Tour, Cruise, and Lindt Home of Chocolate Visit : Explore Zürich on a combined city tour and cruise to see why it’s called the “city with the world’s best quality of life.” Marvel at impressive churches, guild houses, and more.
• City Highlights Tour by Coach, Cable Car, and Ferry : Explore Zurich and its surroundings on a city tour. See the churches in the Old Town and ride the aerial cable car for a stunning view of Lake Zurich and the Alps.

How to get to Zurich

The train station is well connected to other cities in Europe and once at the train station you are actually already in the heart of the city and can start exploring. 

If you get to Zurich International Airport, then take a train (there are a number of trains departing to Zurich Train Station – Zurich Bahnhof) which will get you to the city center in just 12 minutes.

You could also rent a car at Zurich airport, but thanks to the fantastic public transportation in Zurich, there is actually no need to.

Where to stay in Zurich

Staying in the city center is definitely the best area to choose from as most attractions are located within walking distance.

One of the best hotels in the city is right on the shores of Lake Zurich in the center is the luxurious 5-star hotel Baur au Lac .

This is the perfect location to rest after some busy hours of exploring Zurich.

19. Malaga, Spain

Contributed by Ipanema Travels

Whether you are looking for the winter sun or want to combine beach and culture, Málaga is the perfect destination for a weekend trip in Europe.

Located in Andalusia, this Spanish city offers world-class heritage sites, art museums, cozy restaurants, and lots of Southern charm.

When in Málaga visit the Roman Theatre and the Alcazaba Fortress, together with the Gibralfaro Castle. For the best views of the city, take a tour of the cathedral roof. 

Famous for being the birthplace of the modernist artist Pablo Picasso, Málaga won’t disappoint those who love art either.

You can visit Museo Picasso Málaga and the birth house of Picasso, as well as the Pompidou Centre, and the Carmen Thyssen Museum.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Málaga:

• Cathedral, Alcazaba, Roman Theater Walking Tour : Explore Málaga’s highlights on a walking tour: Cathedral, Alcazaba, Roman Theater, and Picasso’s streets. Learn fascinating details from your guide about each site!

How to get to Málaga

Getting to Málaga is pretty easy, as the city has its own international airport.

This is also one of the  reasons why Málaga is a popular travel destination  in Europe.

From the airport, you can take either the express bus line or a taxi to get to the city center. The transfer time is about 15 minutes.

Where to stay in Málaga

Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano is located in the heart of the city and this hotel won’t break the bank.

With comfortable, yet tastefully furnished rooms and beautiful views of the Roman Theatres, this hotel is perfect for a short stay in Málaga.

20. Brussels, Belgium

Contributed by World Wild Schooling

Brussels, the heart of Europe, is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway with its blend of history, culture, and cuisine.

One of the  best things to do in Brussels  is to stroll around the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can also try a  tour of the city’s art and history and taste Belgian chocolate and waffles . Don’t miss the Atomium, an iconic symbol of Brussels. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Brussels:

• Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop with Tastings: Experience Belgian chocolate and learn to make delicious treats at a workshop in Brussels with a chocolatier artisan. Indulge your sweet tooth with tastings and discover the uniqueness of Belgium’s cacao.
• Brussels Atomium and Design Museum Entry Ticket : Visit the iconic Atomium, a unique architectural creation and a symbol of Brussels and Belgium. Originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair, it remains the most popular attraction in Europe’s capital city.

How to get to Brussels

It’s easy to reach the two airports in Brussels. Brussels Airport (BRU) is the closest at around 20 minutes by train or car.

Most budget airlines fly to Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), which is about an hour by bus or car.

Major train stations, Brussels Central and Midi, offer high-speed trains that connect Brussels with major European cities.

Where to stay in Brussels

You can stay at  Hotel Amigo , a 5-star hotel right next to the Grand Place.

Its charming interiors and superior service make it a great choice for a weekend in Brussels.

Enjoy its proximity to major attractions and restaurants.

21. Barcelona, Spain

Contributed by Waves and Cobblestones

Barcelona is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway in Europe!  It’s got it all:  beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, stunning architecture, and top-notch museums.

Some of the  top attractions in Barcelona  are the amazing buildings designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. 

Enjoy a rooftop concert at Casa Milà or explore the colorful mosaics of Parc Güell.

You don’t want to miss La Sagrada Familia!  This magnificent basilica has become an iconic symbol of Barcelona. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia Skip-The-Line Guided Tour : Take a skip-the-line guided tour to see the breathtaking interior of the basilica. Be sure to get your tickets in advance, as this is extremely popular!
• Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour : Enjoy the Casa Batlló experience, where artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and machine learning intertwine. Immerse yourself in the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí, an architectural and design legend.
• Montserrat Tour, Monastery & Optional Wine/Lunch : Hop on a cogwheel train, explore a historic monastery in Montserrat, and soak in amazing views. Pick a half-day tour or upgrade to a full-day trip.

How to get to Barcelona

Fly to Barcelona via the Barcelona-El Prat Airport.  This international airport is only about 13 kilometers from the center of Barcelona, and it’s easy to take public transportation if you don’t want to rent a car.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Stay at the Hotel Jazz .  This hotel has a great location in the heart of historic Barcelona. 

You’ll love the rooftop terrace, where you can take a refreshing dip in the pool or enjoy a cocktail after a day of sightseeing.

22. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Contributed by Not About The Miles

If you are looking for an exciting weekend getaway in Europe, consider  2 days in Dubrovnik ! Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, the Croatian city is compact but captivating.

If you enjoy history and architecture, pop into the beautiful Franciscan Monastery and the Dubrovnik Cathedral; or walk the famous city walls.

Take a boat trip to the little island of Lokrum, or go sea kayaking. Spend some time at the beach. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Srd for panoramas.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Dubrovnik:

• Game of Thrones Tour : Take a Game of Thrones tour to not only see major filming locations but also to learn about the city’s real history. Tour Lovrijenac Fortress: It’s a climb but the views are well worth it!
• Elafiti Islands (Elaphites) Tour : The Elafiti Islands are perfect for a day trip from Dubrovnik. Popular speedboat tours of the three main islands include stops for swimming and snorkeling and free time to visit each island.

How to get to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik has an international airport and it is easy to fly in from many places in Europe, including hubs like London. 

From the airport, the old town is about a 30-minute drive, and you can take a taxi or the airport shuttle bus. 

Once in the old town, you can walk everywhere!

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

The Pucic Palace is a stunning boutique hotel located right in the old town, very convenient for sightseeing and walking to restaurants.

It’s a gorgeous place to base for your Dubrovnik weekend!

23. Lausanne, Switzerland

Contributed by Happy Little Traveler

Lausanne is a beautiful Swiss city located on the northern shores of Lake Geneva. Thanks to many attractions, wonderful views, and easy access it’s a great spot for a weekend trip in Europe that will steal your heart.

There are quite a lot of things to do in Lausanne , but if you want to get the best out of your weekend there, be sure to take a lazy walk along the Ouchy promenade and admire stunning views over the Alps.

Also, stroll around Lausanne’s charming old town and visit the famous Olympic Museum.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Lausanne:

• Lake Geneva Cruise Along Lavaux Vineyards : A two-hour Lake Geneva cruise is a great choice as well! After all that, head to one of the restaurants and taste delicious Swiss food like rosti, raclette, or fondue.

How to get to Lausanne

The closest airport to Lausanne is located in Geneva, only 60km away. It offers train and bus connections to the city.

It’s also quite easy to arrive in Lausanne by train from many places in both Switzerland and France.

Where to stay in Lausanne

For a pleasant stay, you can choose Mövenpick Hotel , which is located just a few steps from the main city attractions.

But what’s most important is that this hotel offers rooms with unforgettable views over Lake Geneva and the Alps.

24. Lisbon, Portugal

Contributed by 24Hours Layover

Lisbon is a fantastic destination for a weekend trip due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.

It’s compact and easily walkable, which is great if you love exploring a city on foot. Plus it’s certainly possible to see the best bits in just one weekend!

Visit historic sites like Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, and make sure to check out the Alfama neighborhood and the scenic Miradouros, all of which make for great  places to take photos in Lisbon .

Then in the evening check out a Fado performance or relax on a  sunset boat cruise !

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Lisbon:

• History, Stories, and Lifestyle Walking Tour : Explore Lisbon’s history on a guided walking tour, visiting charming neighborhoods like Chiado and Bairro Alto. Enjoy panoramic views from Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara and more.

How to get to Lisbon

Lisbon is very well-connected and easy to get to. Lisbon’s International Airport is 10 kilometers from downtown.

The airport has a metro station which will take you to downtown Lisbon in 20 minutes. If driving from Lisbon Airport to the city center, the journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

Lisbon is also well-connected to major cities in Portugal and neighboring countries through train services. The main train station is Santa Apolonia, located in the city center.

Where to stay in Lisbon

For an absolutely stunning hotel, stay at the  Be Poet Baixa Hotel .

Situated right amongst the action, it’s the perfect place to stay for a weekend in Lisbon!

25. Madrid, Spain

Contributed by It’s All Trip To Me

Planning a trip to Madrid  is always a good idea. With countless colorful neighborhoods to explore and laze around at quaint cafés and lively bars, Madrid is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, the perfect place to spend a weekend away from home. 

When visiting Madrid for just a couple of days,  jump on the hop-on-hop-off bus for a chance to see more of the city in less time .

Moreover, if you’re traveling to Madrid during the weekend, you’re in great luck! El Rastro, the city’s most famous flea market, takes place on Sundays alone. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Madrid:

• Prado Museum Entry Ticket : Explore art masterpieces and see works by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and more. The collection features 7,600 paintings and 1,000 sculptures, showcasing the full range of Spanish art.
• Royal Palace Fast-Access Admission Ticket : Explore the Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of Spanish royalty, with an immersive experience in one of the world’s largest palaces. Wander through corridors steeped in centuries of Spanish history.

How to get to Madrid

Madrid’s international airport connects the city to several other destinations within Europe and elsewhere. The drive from Barajas Airport to the city center takes less than half an hour. 

Where to stay in Madrid

If you’re spending only a couple of days in Madrid, it makes sense to book a hotel in a central location. 

B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Plaza Mayor  is only steps from the iconic Plaza Mayor and within easy walking distance from the city’s other major attractions.

The impeccably clean rooms and the friendly staff render this hotel the perfect accommodation option for a weekend trip to Madrid. 

26. Budapest, Hungary

Contributed by Flying Fluskey

Budapest is an easy weekend trip  for the whole of Europe as it sits right at the center.

The city straddles the mighty Danube River and is packed with years of fascinating history to discover.

Budapest is full of natural hot springs that have been turned into divine public bathing pools. The baroque style Szechenyi Baths is the most popular and for good reason.

Spend an afternoon exploring the Buda Castle complex on top of the hill and another on a food tour enjoying Hungarian classics.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Budapest:

• Buda Castle Cave Walking Tour : Discover the labyrinth caves beneath the Buda Castle District while learning about their history and unique geology.
• 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Welcome Drink : Explore Budapest’s iconic landmarks on a 1-hour River Danube sightseeing cruise. Sip on a seasonal cocktail or soft drink as you glide past Buda Castle and the Vigado Concert Hall.

How to get to Budapest

From Budapest Ferenc Liszt Airport, catch the cheap and efficient 100E Airport Express bus that takes around 45 minutes into the city.

Alternatively, there are shared transfers run by MiniBUD or pricy private transfers.

If arriving by train from across Europe, there are many mainline terminus stations that connect to the Metro, giving easy access to the whole city.

Where to stay in Budapest

When staying in Budapest, stay on the Pest side of the river. The Jewish District is full of great options, and for the best value, book an apartment.

However, for a truly luxurious experience, the Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel has a beautiful lobby, plus, you can have breakfast in the iconic New York Cafe as standard.

27. Istanbul, Turkey

Contributed by Mog and Dog Travels

Stretching across two continents and offering fascinating historical attractions, a lively nightlife scene, and mouth-watering cuisine, Istanbul is ideal for a weekend getaway. 

A perfect weekend in Istanbul should always begin with an indulgent Turkish spread breakfast. Known as serpme kahvaltı, it can feature up to twenty different dishes!

 You can walk off your breakfast by exploring some of Istanbul’s beautiful architecture.

Don’t miss the spectacular ancient mosaics in the Hagia Sophia mosque, the handpainted tiled interior of the Blue Mosque, or the underground Basilica Cistern.

If you like shopping, head over to haggle with local merchants at the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world.  

Istanbul has a breathtaking skyline, so make sure you book a spot at one of the many rooftop bars and restaurants that offer stunning panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, visit the extraordinary Galata Tower, which offers a 360° view of the whole city. 

Finally, treat yourself to a luxurious scrub and soap massage at a Turkish bath, a pampering experience that is like no other!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Istanbul:

• If you’re keen to explore more of Istanbul’s gastronomic delights, consider going on  this amazing food tour  around the city.
• Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour : Discover 3 renowned landmarks in Istanbul on this guided combo tour. Admire the Blue Mosque, explore the mysterious Basilica Cistern, and visit the grand Hagia Sofia mosque.
• Topkapi Palace Guided Tour and Skip The Line : Explore Topkapi Palace, Turkey’s prominent museum, and the Balkan Peninsula’s notable landmark.

How to get to Istanbul

Istanbul has two airports: the newly built Istanbul International Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) aırport.

Both are served by an airport metro service, regular shuttle buses that operate 24/7, and taxis.

Journeys by shuttle bus or metro from IST or SAW into Istanbul city center take around 1-1.5 hours. 

Where to stay in Istanbul

There are many  different areas to stay in Istanbul  but for a weekend trip, the lovely area of Galata is the best choice.

Surrounded by charming cafes, shops, art galleries and museums, it’s an ideal base. 

NOA Luxury Apartments  offers reasonably priced, spacious, chic apartments with fully equipped kitchens, a balcony or garden, free Wi-Fi, and a private gym. 

28. Dublin, Ireland

Contributed by Backpackers Thailand

Ireland, one of the friendliest countries to visit in Europe , is perfect for a weekend trip!

If you’re looking for a fun weekend full of cultural activities, tasty food, and exploring historic sites,make sure you add Dublin to your to-do list.

When you’re in Dublin, don’t miss the chance to explore Trinity College with the Book of Kells and the EPIC (Irish Immigration Museum).

Take a stroll through the lively Temple Bar district with nice restaurants and bars.

Visit the historic Whitefriar Street Church. It houses the remains of St. Valentine! The famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral, named after the patron saint of Ireland, is another must-see landmark.

But the highlight of your trip has to be a visit to The Brazen Head, the oldest pub in Dublin. The live music and mouthwatering food will leave a lasting impression.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Dublin:

• Guinness Storehouse Entrance Ticket : Explore the Guinness Storehouse with a self-guided tour and discover the world-famous Guinness Stout, and savor a complimentary pint.
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum Entrance Ticket : Explore the impact of a small island on the world. Uncover the stories of Irish emigrants and immerse yourself in Irish culture.

How to get to Dublin

You can easily fly to Dublin from all the major European cities, the US, Canada, and the Middle East. The airport is located 30 min away from the city center (you can take a taxi or a city bus).

Where to stay in Dublin

Stay in the charming Trinity Townhouse Hotel and indulge in spacious rooms and the captivating interior of the Georgian period.

All the top attractions are located just a short walk away. 

29. Porto, Portugal

Contributed by Random Trip

There is a city in the north of Portugal with plans for all types of travelers and budgets: Welcome to  Porto !

You may also know it as Oporto but the Portuguese name is actually Porto.

Porto is a perfect weekend destination, as in 2-3 days you can admire its many religious buildings like its cathedral (Se do Porto) or its beautiful tile-covered churches (Capela das Almas or Santo Ildefonso).

You can also admire the amazing views of the city from its marvelous viewpoints from Torre dos Clérigos or from Dom Luis I bridge.

Buy some artsy souvenirs from the small galleries at Rua Miguel Bombarda (for example at Ó! Galeria) and jump on a  river cruise on a “Ravelo” , the original boats used to transport Port wine barrels. 

Don’t forget the amazing gastronomy! The iconic dish in Porto is Francesinha, a sandwich filled with various meats, smothered in cheese and a flavorful spicy sauce made with tomato and beer. It’s typically topped with a fried egg and served with crispy french fries on the side.

There are also vegan and vegetarian versions. You will find Francesinhas in most restaurants, and if you ask local people about it, everyone will tell you which restaurant cooks their favorite one.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Porto:

•   Torre dos Clerigos Entrance Ticket : Experience panoramic views of Porto from the top of the baroque Torre dos Clérigos. Climb the city’s iconic Bell Tower at your own pace, conquering its 225 steps. Marvel at the church’s intricate façade adorned with seashells and garlands.
• Cockburn’s Cellar Tour Classic or Pairing Option : Experience a guided visit and premium tasting at Cockburn’s Lodge, the largest Port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia’s historic quarter. Witness the only open cooperage in the area.

How to get to Porto

Getting to Porto is easy, as it has an international airport with low-cost flights connecting it with several cities in Europe.

The airport is 15km away from the city, and easily connected with buses, subway, and taxis or an Uber.

If you are already in Portugal, there are trains and buses connecting Porto to most places in Portugal and/or Lisbon.

Where to stay in Porto

Oporto Home – River Front : This modern and beautiful apartment is located right in the Ribera, one of the most visited areas in Porto.

It has amazing river views and also Gaia views (the other side of the Douro River, where Port wine wineries are located).

You will be located within walking distance of the most interesting places and also near lots of restaurants.

Or why not check out the best hotels in Porto with a pool if you love having a pool for a dip at the end of the day!

30. Tenerife, Spain

Contributed by Alexander of Tenerife Is

Tenerife  is a superb destination for a short trip. Firstly, the flight from London takes only 4 and a half hours. If you are already in Madrid the flight is only 3 hours.

And with so many low-cost carriers flying to Tenerife you can often get very cheap plane tickets.

Tenerife has great weather absolutely all year round, so any month and any date will be a great choice for a trip.

But that is not all that is great about visiting Tenerife. There is such a huge variety of activities in Tenerife that any traveler, families with children, couples, and elderly people will be happy with their journey.  

You can laze on the beach, go on excursions to colorful villages and towns, have fun in the largest water park in Europe Siam Park, or look at the stars at the foot of the volcano Teide.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Tenerife:

• Siam Waterpark Entry Tickets : Kids will love it! Discover the Kingdom of Siam and dive into aquatic thrills with a full-day ticket to Siam Park Tenerife. Experience the force of the world’s largest artificial wave, float along a lazy river, and more.
• Dolphin and Whale Eco-Cruise : Experience a memorable dolphin and whale-watching trip on an eco-friendly catamaran. Choose from 3-hour or 5-hour adventures, with food, drinks, and swimming available on both.
• Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing Tour : Enjoy breathtaking scenery in Tenerife and experience mesmerizing sunsets while stargazing in Teide National Park. Use telescopes at an altitude of 6561 ft (2000 meters) to observe the moon and stars.

How to get to Tenerife

There are two airports in Tenerife – the south airport and the north airport. If you plan to vacation in the south, where the sunny weather is the most stable, you should fly to the southern airport. It takes only 15-20 minutes by cab from the airport to the southern resorts.

Where to stay in Tenerife

Before I moved to Tenerife, I flew to vacation there with my family. I love the family friendly hotels in Tenerife. My all time favorite hotel is Bahia Principe Fantasia .

This Tenerife resort, inspired by fairy tales, captivates both children and adults. With an incredible water park, swimming pool, and exhilarating slides, it’s perfect for families.

Plus, there’s a fantastic kids club offering fun activities like cooking classes, and exciting excursions.

It’s a great opportunity for children to have fun and learn while staying here.

31. Kotor, Montenegro

Contributed by My Wanderlust

Kotor, Montenegro is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe that can be a great weekend getaway to escape to a real wonderland.

The charming town with the maze of winding lanes dates back to the 3rd century BC, and still today, you can admire the numerous historical buildings (especially churches and palaces) in various architectural styles.

But the real highlight of the place and one of the best  things to do in Kotor  is the ruins of the St. John’s fortress towering above the city.

It’s a bit of a challenge to get all the way to the top, with over a thousand steps to climb, but the views you will see are totally worth the effort.

This is probably the most iconic panorama in Montenegro and certainly one of the most beautiful landscapes you will ever see, where rocky mountains meet turquoise water.

Since Kotor Old Town is rather small, you can see everything in one day and spend the rest of your weekend trip either relaxing at the beach or visiting one of the nearby interesting places.

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Kotor:

• Perast Old Town on Island Our Lady of the Rocks : The most popular trips from Kotor include the charming town of Perast (known for the church on the artificial island in the middle of the picturesque Kotor Bay). The trips are every 2 hours.
• Private Guided Walking Tour : Embark on a 90-minute guided tour of Kotor, the city of merchants and sailors, to delve into its 2,500 years of captivating history. Marvel at the architecture adorning the squares in this UNESCO-listed fortified city.

How to get to Kotor

The nearest airport is in Tivat, around 10 km away from Kotor. You can also fly to the more popular Podgorica airport, from where it’s around 2 hour drive to Kotor.

Where to stay in Kotor

To make your trip even better, you should stay in one of the historical palaces in Kotor Old Town, such as Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro , a former Rector’s Palace.

This way, you can get a taste of Kotor’s rich past and enjoy fine accommodation in the heart of the town.

32. Reykjavik, Iceland

Contributed by Europe in Winter

Reykjavik, Iceland’s effortlessly cool capital, might not be the first European weekend trip you think of – but it’s actually ideal. 

You can visit  Reykjavik in winter or any other time of the year for an amazing experience!

Once you reach the city, you’ll find a plethora of museums covering everything from Icelandic whales to Vikings and attractions, such as the immersive FlyOver Iceland experience and Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik’s main church – from the top you can take in an incredible city view. 

It may be geographically isolated, but the capital has an effervescently hip vibe, with chic cafes lining the streets and a gorgeous waterfront – perfect for a stroll. 

Explore the city independently or embark on a  free walking tour  to learn more about Iceland’s history and culture. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Reykjavik:

• Northern Lights by Boat in Reykjavik : Head out on a Northern Lights tour (boats leave the harbour nightly).
• Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater : Year-round day trips to the Golden Circle are always popular. Enjoy stunning natural scenery and visit the Geysir area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park.

How to get to Reykjavik 

With links to main European cities and the East Coast of America, it’s easy to reach from either – and once you get to Keflavik Airport, there’s an easy coach connection (around 45 minutes) to the capital. 

Where to stay in Reykjavik

Skuggi Hotel  oozes Nordic charm. With modern bedrooms, a fresh Icelandic breakfast served each morning and a prime city center destination, it’s the ideal place to stay on a quick break to the capital. 

33. Rouen, France

Contributed by Normandie Lovers

Located in northern France, Rouen is a wonderful city, full of history from the Medieval times. You can easily discover it over a weekend .

What should you plan? Simply walk around, admire the half-timbered houses, learn about Joan of Arc and her trials, marvel at the Gros-Horloge, and be speechless in front of the huge cathedral.

The old town is so fascinating that a guided tour will help you better appreciate all the buildings that are all around you, as well as their stories. 

What a perfect weekend to travel through time!

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Rouen:

• Guided tour of the historic center : Travel through time by observing the greatest monuments of the city of Rouen including Place de la Pucelle, Place du Vieux Marché, and discover the last moments of Joan of Arc’s life, the magnificent Courthouse of Rouen, and more!

How to get to Rouen

To get there, you can land in Paris and rent a car. The drive is 1h15 to 1h45 long. Or you can reach Rouen by train. The station is in the center, just a 10 minute walk from the old part of town.

Where to stay in Rouen

Plus, to make your stay even more special, the Hôtel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert is centrally located and will surround you with the words of this famous local author. 

34. Sofia, Bulgaria

Contributed by A Social Nomad

This multicultural city has centuries of history in a small space, much of the center is pedestrianized, with a cosmopolitan, Mediterranean outdoor lifestyle in the summer months.

The best way to explore is to take a walking tour of the city.

There are mosques, cathedrals, and synagogues within a city block, and finding out how that all came about is key to understanding Sofia.  

The highlight of Sofia  is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the world’s largest Orthodox Cathedrals, but the smaller UNESCO World Heritage Boyana Church has magnificent medieval frescoes.  Visit on a trip that combines the stunning Rila Monastery.  

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Sofia:

• Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Group Tour : Discover 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bulgaria on a thrilling group tour from Sofia. Experience the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. Explore the Boyana Church with its stunning pre-Renaissance frescoes.

How to get to Sofia

With an international airport that serves both national and budget airlines, Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia is well connected as a great weekend getaway.  There’s even a metro connecting the airport to the city center, that also runs to the bus and rail terminals too (the overnight train from Istanbul is also a super way to get here).  

Where to stay in Sofia

The four-star Rosslyn Central Park Hotel is in a perfect location for exploring Sofia.

Rooms have WiFi, minibars and satellite TV, an airport shuttle is available and the hotel is just 3 minutes from the National Museum of Culture. 

35. Cork, Ireland

Contributed by Amber Everywhere

Cork is Ireland’s second city and the perfect place to visit for a weekend trip in Europe.

The city is full of lively pubs and great restaurants, so you can sip a quiet glass of wine at Meades 126 or party the night away at Bodega. 

Get an overview of the city by taking a walking tour of Cork , ideally one that includes most of the city’s main landmarks. Afterward, take in the views from Elizabeth Fort or ring the bells at Saint Anne’s Church. 

Here are some of our top recommended tours when in Cork:

• 2-Hour Guided Cork Harbour Scenic Cruise : Experience a stunning boat trip to witness iconic landmarks like Blackrock Castle and Martello Towers. Immerse yourself in the area’s rich history while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
•   Jameson Experience Whiskey Tour : Today, every drop of Jameson whiskey is made in Midleton, Co Cork. Visit to see the largest pot still and a new micro-distillery in action, as well as experience the live maturation warehouse.

How to get to Cork

Cork has an international airport about 20 minutes from the city center. Alternatively, you can fly into Dublin and drive or take public transit down to Cork. The drive takes about 3.5 hours. 

Where to stay in Cork

Stay at the Imperial Hotel Cork City . This beautiful hotel is located in the center of everything, just steps from all of the action on Oliver Plunkett Street.

The rooms are tastefully decorated, and there’s a wonderful spa onsite, in case you decide to splurge on a massage or facial during your stay.

FAQs About The Best Weekend Trips in Europe

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best cities for weekend trips in Europe.

European cities are easily accessible for weekend getaways. Paris, Barcelona, and Rome are popular city break destinations. We have also included the attractions of Reykjavik, Sofia, and Budapest as great weekend getaways in Europe.

Late March to early June and September to November are the best times to visit. You’ll avoid the busy summer period and get more value for your money. In Northern Europe, May to September is warm and dry. Further south, temperatures can reach 36°C (96°F) in July and August.

Sure! You can spend a full weekend exploring the food and culture in Lisbon or Porto, both great ways to experience Portugal.

Weekend getaways in Greece have never been easier. With numerous cities and resorts to choose from, you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of the country before returning home within just 48 hours.

Croatia’s cities offer a captivating blend of heritage and modernity, with quality restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and world-facing cultural institutions. Everything you want and more for a city break!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Europe for a Weekend

Europe is the perfect place for weekend getaways. From the vibrant city of Lisbon to the picturesque town of Cork and finally, to the beautiful city of Zurich, there are many great places to visit in Europe for a weekend trip.

From beach resorts to mountain retreats, you can find something no matter your budget or destination preference. Our travels have taken us to Greece, Italy, France, Spain, and other European countries. We’ve put this complete guide of the best quick getaways in Europe with other travel bloggers who have visited some of these destinations.

From all our travels, we’ve learned so much about what makes these places unique and special. No matter where you go in Europe, there will be something exciting and interesting waiting for you.

Whether it’s grabbing a bite from an unusual street food vendor in Lisbon or taking in the views from atop a mountain peak in Switzerland, you’ll have an unforgettable experience.

So grab your passport and get ready for an amazing weekend!

More Articles to Help You Plan Your Weekend Trip to Europe:

• Best European Cities to Visit for any Traveler!
• Best European Cities to Visit with Kids in Winter !
• Read this post if you need ideas for the best European destinations for family vacations !
• Here are our top five European family summer vacation destinations !
• Fancy a winter European trip? Here is our list of the best cities to visit in Europe in December !
• Here is the list of our best places to travel in Europe in kids !
• Read all about our Europe travels on our Europe Travel Blog !
• This post is a must-read if you are looking for the best airlines to fly to Europe !

Jolene Ejmont

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The Ultimate Europe Bucket List: 75 Fun Things to Do in Europe

Curious about the best things to do in Europe–and wondering what exactly to put on your personal Europe bucket list? We have you covered!

We’ve been traveling Europe for years, and every day, week, and month spent traversing the continent seems to result in us crossing several experiences and destinations of our personal European bucket list… only to add twice as many spots to our wish-list for the future along the way.

While we have plenty of guides to planning a practical trip to Europe here on Our Escape Clause (more on that below), this giant list of what to do in Europe is decidedly not  that.

If you’re looking to do a little dreaming, on the other hand, this bucket list for Europe–based on a combination of our lived experiences and future travel dreams–is for you.

This list is admittedly incomplete, and always will be: it’s a living document, one that we’ll continue to update as we explore. However, this list of bucket list European tourist attractions and travel destinations is still enough to keep most travelers busy for years.

Here are the best things to do in Europe!

Table of Contents

Once You Narrow Your Europe Bucket List Down…

Unmissable tourist attractions in europe, european bucket list experiences, more fun things to do in europe.

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Obviously, no one European vacation could possibly cover all of the tourist attractions, bucket list experiences, and incredible destinations listed here (believe me, if there was a way, we’d be all over it).

Once you’ve narrowed your wish list down ever-so-slightly, we recommend hopping over to our Europe itinerary guide to start finalizing your destinations and putting your trip together!

We also recommend reading this list of essential Europe travel tips before you go, as well as our in-depth guide to traveling Europe by train .

To get your packing list in order, check out our complete guides to packing for Europe in the summer , fall , and winter , as well as our suggestions for what to bring on a long haul flight (knowledge gained through many uncomfortable experiences in the air).

To read more detailed travel tips, guides, and itineraries for the specific countries you’re planning to visit, head to our destinations page .

Every one of the Europe bucket list attractions in this section is incredibly famous… but definitely not worth skipping.

Admire the Eiffel Tower from the Trocadero Gardens.

Without a doubt, this is one of the most iconic views on the continent, and enjoying it is one of the best things to do in Europe!

Admire the magnificence of the Sistine Chapel.

As the crown jewel of (and final stop on) a visit to the Vatican Museums, Michelangelo’s stunning Sistine Chapel is far more incredible in person than any photograph could convey.

Just be prepared to share the view with hundreds of others, and to avoid the temptation to photograph it during your trip to Vatican City .

Tour the Acropolis in Athens.

The center of cultural life in ancient Athens is still an incredible sight to behold today, and visiting is part of any Athens itinerary !

Visit Stonehenge in England.

Mysterious, beautiful Stonehenge is the most intricately built prehistoric stone circle on Earth–and its mysteries have been captivating visitors for thousands of years.

As far as experiences in England go, it may be touristy–but that doesn’t mean you should skip it.

Marvel at the Colosseum in Rome.

I’ll never forget the first time that I saw the Colosseum in person: the sheer size of it is incredible, and stepping inside is even more magnificent.

If you book a tour, you can even tour the Colosseum’s underground area beneath the arena.

Take a selfie with the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Yep, it’s incredibly cheesy… but if you make it out to this town about 30 minutes west of Florence, don’t pass up the chance to have fun being silly!

Admire views of Oia in Santorini.

The picturesque white-and-blue village of Oia more than lives up to the Santorini of so many fantasies.

Check out Big Ben.

London’s iconic clocktower is not to be missed during a trip to the city–and neither is the chance to stay in a memorable London hotel !

Explore the Louvre.

The most-visited museum in the world more than lives up to the hype: packed with art and artifacts spanning thousands of years, no trip to the Louvre could possibly cover it all (and that’s part of the fun).

Marvel at the incomplete La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

We all know intellectually that the great cathedrals of European history took decades or centuries to build–but at the incomplete La Sagrada Familia, you can see a modern version of the process in action!

And, if you climb one of the cathedral’s towers, you can even enjoy the view from one of the most striking Barcelona viewpoints at the top!

Visit the ruins of Pompeii.

… and don’t forget to visit the city of Herculaneum, too, which was buried in the same eruption of Mount Vesuvius that Pompeii was.

Stand in awe of Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland.

There is no shortage of truly epic landscapes to add to your Iceland bucket list , but perhaps none is as popular or iconic as the incredible Skogafoss.

You can find Skogafoss just off of Iceland’s iconic Ring Road –no hike required.

Be sure to bring a raincoat with you, as that mist is even more powerful than it looks!

Admire views of Florence from above.

Whether you climb Brunelleschi’s dome at the Duomo or admire the stunning cathedral from afar at the Palazzo Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, or one of the other best viewpoints in Florence , admiring the Cradle of the Renaissance from above is one of the best things to do in Europe.

Stroll across the Charles Bridge in Prague.

Built starting in 1357, the ornate Charles Bridge is the oldest bridge in Prague, and for centuries was the only bridge in the city to cross the Vltava River.

The bridge links, among many other things, Prague’s central Old Town with its massive castle complex, both among the best things to see in the city.

Hike the Path of the Gods along the Amalfi Coast.

Between the villages of Bomerano and Nocelle along the Amalfi Coast runs one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe.

The main portion is only about 4 miles, but you’ll be in for quite the workout if you decide to finish by descending from Nocelle to Positano by foot. The views, however, are worth the effort.

Meander through Amsterdam’s historic center.

Riding a bike in Amsterdam can be a bit intimidating, true–but whether you choose to walk or ride, getting lost among the city’s canals is definitely one of the best things to do in Europe!

We highly recommend stopping into a cheese shop or six along the way.

Experience the thermal baths in Budapest.

There are dozens of incredible things to do in Budapest , but few are as unique to the city as the enormous number of thermal baths located right in the city center!

The Szechenyi Thermal Baths in City Park and Gellert Thermal Baths in Hotel Gellert are among the most popular with visitors, and both are worth a visit.

Enjoy a gondola ride in Venice.

Touristy? Absolutely. Expensive? Without a doubt.

There’s no doubt, though, that’s there something magical–not to mention downright iconic, about a gondola ride in Venice !

Walk along the Cliffs of Moher.

These beautiful cliffs on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way are unforgettable. 

While you can hike all the way from Doolin to the cliffs, most travelers start at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor’s Center.

From there, consider walking to Hag’s Head (which should take a bit over an hour each way) to ditch the crowds and enjoy more peaceful views of the Cliffs of Moher .

Order coffee or a meal in the local language.

Sure, you’ll probably mispronounce something the first time, and in popular European tourist destinations you won’t necessarily “need” to speak anything other than English to get by… but there is something incredibly gratifying about learning to speak even a tiny bit of the local language on your trip, and restaurants and cafes are the perfect places to start!

Go dog sledding in Lapland.

For a winter paradise in Europe, you can’t beat dog sledding in Lapland.

Jump into the Blue Lagoon in Malta.

The tiny country of Malta has no shortage of rocky swimming locations, but none are quite as spectacular as the Blue Lagoon of Comino, one of the most popular day trips from the main island and one of the best things to do in Malta .

Walk the walls of Dubrovnik.

It’s hard to decide which view from the defensive city walls surrounding Dubrovnik’s Old Town is more incredible: the view looking into the city or the view looking out at the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

Either way, there’s no doubt that this walk is one of the absolute best things to do in Europe, and worth prioritizing when deciding what to do in Dubrovnik .

Walk the Camino del Santiago.

True, this Europe bucket list item is at least a week-long commitment (several weeks if you want to do the whole thing rather than just the last 100km), but there’s a reason this ancient pilgrimage attracts more than 200,000 travelers each year.

Drive Germany’s Romantic Road.

From views of the (rightfully) popular Neuschwanstein Castle to the beauty of villages like Rothenburg ob de Tauber and cities like Augsburg, driving Germany’s Romantic Road is one of the best ways to explore the country.

Snorkel between two tectonic plates.

In Iceland’s stunning Silfra Fissure, you can snorkel between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates–the only place on the planet where you can do so!

Get all of our Silfra snorkeling tips here .

Go wine tasting in Tuscany.

There are European bucket list-worthy level wine regions across the continent, of course, but none has captured the imagination of travelers from across the pond like Tuscany.

Admiring the golden light of the Tuscan countryside from a stone villa while drinking a glass of local wine definitely lives up to the hype!

Soak in the beauty of the colorful harbor of Nyhavn in Copenhagen.

The picturesque, historic harbor Nyhavn may be touristy–but like many tourist attractions in Europe, there’s a good reason for that!

Be sure to add this beautiful spot to your Copenhagen itinerary .

Enjoy afternoon tea in London.

British afternoon tea is a delightful ritual, and nowhere does it quite like London!

Whether you’d like to stick to something traditional in a restaurant or hotel or go all-out with a themed afternoon tea in London (Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter are both options, as is a tea served on one of London’s iconic double-decker buses), enjoying a full afternoon tea definitely belongs on your list of what to do in London.

Admire the sweeping lavender fields of Provence.

No matter how much lavender you’ve seen in your life, it’s impossible not to be enchanted by the sheer scale of the lavender fields of Provence.

Come summer, you can truly find places in southern France that are coated with fields of purple as far as the eye can see.

Ride a historic tram through Lisbon.

Lisbon, Portugal has many reasons that it is compared to San Francisco, but at the top of the list is definitely its hills… and the charming trams that were built to help citizens contend with them!

Gamble in Monaco.

It doesn’t have to be a lot of money, of course, but there’s something exciting about stepping into the legendary casinos of Monaco!

Experience European Christmas markets.

Mulled wine, handcrafted gifts, Christmas carols, tasty food, and if you’re lucky (and choose the right city), maybe even a little bit of snow: the best Christmas markets in Europe are truly magical.

Enjoy a drink in an Irish pub.

The cities have some lovely options, but for us, nothing beats a night spent with an Irish beer, some pub food, and live music in a tiny village that is tucked away in a quiet corner of the Emerald Isle.

Marvel at the tulips in the Netherlands.

Intricately organized rows of brightly colored tulips that seem neverending, maybe even interrupted by a picturesque windmill in the background: views like these are worth traveling to the Netherlands for!

The popular Keukenhof Gardens are one of the most common places for travelers to start their tulip-spotting, but there is no shortage of places to admire the flowers each April .

Toss a coin into Rome’s Trevi Fountain.

As legend has it, throwing a coin into the fountain will ensure your return to Rome.

Buy a picnic at an outdoor market, and enjoy it outside!

Cured meats in Italy, cheese in France, olives in Spain (or let’s be real, all three, everywhere), and beyond–outdoor markets are a fantastic part of many European cultures, and shopping for your own picnic adds a fun project that makes exploring them more meaningful and fun.

See an opera.

Vienna is the classic travel destination for checking an opera off your bucket list for Europe, but most major European cities boast a stunning opera house that’s worth seeing a show in–even if you’re not the biggest fan of opera.

Visit the fairytale village of Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland.

Overlooked by the towering Staubbach Waterfall, Lauterbrunnen looks like one of those towns that are simply too magical to be real (though, to be entirely fair, quite a bit of Switzerland looks like that!).

Go island hopping in Greece.

Whitewashed villages, stunning sunsets, the sparkling sea, and positively scrumptious food are just a few excellent reasons to enjoy Greece’s island life!

Despite their many similarities, Greek islands vary dramatically in culture and things to do–a trip to Santorini or Mykonos is not remotely the same as one to Crete or Zakynthos.

Hike to San Giovanni Fortress in Kotor, Montenegro.

The climb to San Giovanni Fortress rewards hikers with sweeping views of both the town and Bay of Kotor, and it’s both one of the best things to do in Kotor and a fantastic way to spend a morning in Montenegro.

Step inside a beautiful church.

Whether it’s one of the most famous churches in London , Paris, or Rome, or a quiet community church in a small town, the art, architecture, and history you can experience throughout the churches of Europe is not to be missed.

Take a European road trip.

Deciding which of the best road trips in Europe is right for you is a near-impossible challenge… but no matter which destination (or destinations!) you choose, it’s sure to be unforgettable.

Some of our favorite bucket list European road trips so far have been in Tuscany , Provence , Sicily , Ireland , Southern Spain , and Croatia –but there are many more to come in the future.

A Norway road trip in the summer, a Transylvania road trip, and a Scottish Highlands road trip are all at the top of our wish list!

Attend Oktoberfest in Munich.

There’s nothing like the gigantic–and let’s be real, overwhelming–Munich Oktoberfest!

With 16 enormous (and distinct) tents to experience and a whole new lingo and culture to learn, it’s worth donning lederhosen or a dirndl to experience this over-the-top festival.

Eat street food.

A crepe in Paris, a waffle in Belgium, a kebab just about anywhere: the food itself doesn’t matter nearly as much as the experience of ordering and enjoying it!

See the northern lights.

Whether it’s in Iceland , Sweden, Norway, Finland, or even Scotland, the northern lights are a magnificent spectacle that belongs on your European bucket list.

Enjoy the beaches of Sardinia.

This isolated island off the coast of Italy is one of the most distinct regions in the country–and, despite the fact that it is rarely visited by tourists from outside of Europe, it’s home to some of the most stunning beaches on the continent!

Take public transportation.

Not only is it often the easiest way to get around, but it’s also a fantastic way to learn about the place you’re visiting!

… and an overnight train.

Sure, it may not be the most comfortable sleep you’ve ever had, but there’s something exhilarating about overnight travel via train.

If you’ve never tried it, consider crossing it off your European bucket list on your next trip (plus, it’s better for the environment than flying, anyway).

Take a canal cruise in Bruges.

The city of Bruges, Belgium looks exactly like what a non-European tourist expects Europe to look like before arriving–in other words, like an ancient city worthy of being the setting of a fairytale.

With a description like that, it’s no surprise that Bruges is one of the most romantic cities in Europe .

And, there’s no better place to appreciate the city’s beauty than from the water!

Explore the villas of Lake Como.

From Bellagio to Lecco and beyond, the towns and cities dotting the edges of Lake Como are known for their stunning views and opulent villas.

Road trip the Scottish Highlands.

Whether you’re inspired by Outlander, Harry Potter, the temptation of a good glass of scotch whisky, or simply the sweeping landscapes of northern Scotland, road tripping the NC 500 will take you to some of the most beautiful–and in the case of the sparkling turquoise beaches, unexpected–corners of Europe.

Take a food tour.

We’re big believers in food tours: not only will you be able to participate in what is usually a fascinating walking tour of the city in between meals, but you’ll also have a chance to try several different local dishes… without having to commit to ordering a whole portion.

Over the years, in European cities as diverse as Rome , Istanbul, Palermo, and Athens , we’ve discovered new favorite dishes and city streets on food tours!

… and a cooking class.

Looking for something even more hands-on than a food tour? Try a cooking class!

Italy and France are popular choices for these, of course, but you’ll find them all across the continent.

Row to Bled Island.

Tiny, beautiful Bled Island, perched in the center of Lake Bled, is one of the best places to visit in Slovenia .

The best way to check visiting this island off your list of fun things to do in Europe? Row your way across the lake!

Explore Mont Saint-Michel.

Set on an island off the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel was once famous for only being able to be reached at low tide.

That changed with the completion of a bridge to the island in 2014, however, the charm of the compact island featuring a monastery dating back to the 8th century is still absolutely present.

Visit the tiny country of San Marino.

Landlocked by Italy, San Marino styles itself as the oldest independent republic in the world–and it also happens to be incredibly beautiful.

Set sail to Svalbard.

The isolated Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is known for its glaciers, its arctic landscape, its incredible beauty, and–above all–its polar bears.

It’s far from the easiest (or cheapest) European bucket list destination to check off your list, but it’s also absolutely unforgettable.

Experience a sauna in Finland.

The Finnish take their cultural tradition of sauna extremely seriously, and taking part in the sauna experience is one of the many fun things to do in Europe (just make sure to check your modesty at the door).

Tour the catacombs of Paris.

Six million skeletons may not be the first thing you think about when planning what to do in the City of Light, but you’ll never forget visiting the catacombs in Paris !

Soak in the beauty of Hallstatt.

The small town of Hallstatt, Austria is often considered one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe–and looking at it, there’s no mystery as to why!

Go for a hike in Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Plitvice Lakes National Park happens to be one of my favorite national parks on the planet, and in my opinion, it belongs on any list detailing what to do in Europe.

Made up of 16 interconnected lakes that are knitted together by a series of stunning waterfalls, it’s hard not to fall in love with these beautiful turquoise lakes.

Take a sunrise stroll through your favorite city.

Whether it’s Paris or Rome, Budapest or Istanbul, there’s some magical about a European city at dawn–consider walking to some of the city’s best tourist attractions to see them both bathed in beautiful early morning light and without crowds!

Explore the castles of Transylvania.

The gorgeous Romanian region of Transylvania lends itself to legend–helped, along, of course, by its association with Dracula.

While the Dracula story is based on Vlad the Impaler, the majority of the legend is of course firmly in the realm of fiction.

However, that doesn’t take away from the magic of visiting Bran Castle, as well as other stunning Transylvanian castles like Peles Castle and Corvin Castle.

Take a tour of one of the world’s best museums.

Even if art history isn’t exactly your subject of choice, taking an organized tour of one of Europe’s great museums absolutely belongs on your Europe bucket list!

Visiting museums like the Uffizi, the Louvre, the Vatican Museums, and the Prado independently can be lots of fun, but there’s something incredibly special about having the history and context of various works brought to life with a live guide.

You don’t necessarily need to book a tour for every museum you visit–but once in a while, it’s definitely worth the splurge.

Take a day trip to Asia.

A quick ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul is all you need in order to take a day trip to Asia from Europe!

Eat pizza in Naples.

There’s a reason that pizza in Naples is widely considered to be some of the best in the world!

Absolutely delicious, with a delightfully chewy crust and a focus on very fresh, but minimal, ingredients, tucking into a true Napoli-style pizza in Naples is an experience that can’t quite be recreated anywhere else.

Get off the beaten path with a visit to the Faroe Islands.

Stunningly beautiful, the isolated Faroe Islands are one of the least-visited corners of Europe… but their dramatic landscapes make it well worth the effort.

… and the Azores.

Sometimes referred to as the “Hawaii of the Atlantic”, this archipelago of Portuguese islands makes for an unforgettable adventure.

Hike on a volcano, visit some incredible lakes, tour historic forts, and get underground at stunning caves during your Azores adventure.

Tour a church decorated with bones.

From the mummies of Sicily to the Capuchin Crypt of Rome, and from the Sedlec Ossuary in the Czech Republic to the Capela dos Ossos in Portugal, there is a startling amount of artwork in Europe constructed with human remains–most of it in or underneath churches or monasteries.

Though quite unsettling on the face of it, these places are also incredibly interesting.

Eat tapas (and churros) in Madrid.

Madrid is well-known for its late-night culture, where bars and clubs often stay open until dawn.

Want to enjoy Madrid’s nightlife in a different way? Enjoy several plates of tapas at various bars, and follow it up with a late-night serving of churros!

They’re amazing year-round, of course, but churros con chocolate are a particular highlight of visiting Madrid in winter !

Explore the villages of Alsace.

Of all the storybook-worthy towns in Europe, it’s arguable that the villages of Alsace, France are among the most picturesque.

Tucked in a corner of northeastern France and home to a distinct culture that blends French and German influences, Alsace is known for its wine, its food, and its Christmas markets.

Spend the night in a castle.

From Ireland to France and beyond, there are plenty of opportunities to sleep in beautiful, historic locations–but none are quite as worthy of a Europe bucket list as the idea of sleeping in a castle!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “The Ultimate Europe Bucket List: 75 Fun Things to Do in Europe”

Thanks for this Kate, I had a blast! Very informative too. Nice to know you lived in Portugal. Godspeed.

amazing and sooo true! i’ve been to most of the places and agree 100%!! so when you recommend places and things that i haven’t done, i truly know you are an expert & have added them to my list! thanks so much! i was looking for something like this to plan our upcoming trip!!!

Thanks so much, Nicky! Happy travels! :-)

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20 one-week europe trip itinerary ideas.

Wondering where to spend one week in Europe? These 20 ideas for your Europe trip will help you decide how to maximize your time.

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How to Choose the Best One Week Itinerary for a Europe Trip: 20 Europe Itinerary Ideas

If you’re like most people and getting time off work or kids out of school is challenging, you may only be able to manage one week of vacation. Europe is a great destination to go for one week, simply because of the cultural diversity in such a small geographic area.

The small size, proximity, and ease of transportation between many of the countries in Europe make it a good choice for a culturally rich one week holiday. If you’ve only got one week in Europe, and really want to maximize your time, but you’re wondering where to go in Europe, here are 20 perfect one-week Europe travel itineraries.

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• Before You go to Europe

Europe is an amazing destination, especially if you pick any of these awesome itineraries, but before leaving there are a few things you should consider when planning your Europe trip:

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Before you go to Europe, be sure you follow my 50 travel tips for Europe. You can find those here. 

And the winter months are generally cold in most European countries, especially in the north.That doesn’t mean you should avoid those times, it just depends on your tolerance for crowds and your preference in weather.

• WHAT TO PACK FOR EUROPE: What you pack for Europe will highly depend on what time of year you go and where you decide to go. This  packing guide for Europe will ensure you have the essentials.
• GETTING AROUND: Getting around Europe can be a little daunting, but if you do some research before you go, you’ll be just fine. Transportation in every country in Europe is a little different. I’ve linked many of my articles with helpful advice below like   How to Survive Train Travel in Italy   and   Driving in Scotland . Some itineraries will require you to go by train, car, plane or boat. Travel around Europe doesn’t have to be scary if you learn what to do ahead of time.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

What to do in Europe for One Week: 20 European Vacation Ideas for Your Europe Trip

These are my best one week vacations in Europe. Taking a multi city European vacation can be a great way to experience several different cultures on one continent. I know that one week in Europe isn’t a lot of time, so I’ve picked cities that are either close in proximity or a quick and cheap flight between each other.

I’ve also tried to choose each Europe travel itinerary with a mix of classic sites and unique destinations. There are so many cool places to visit in Europe that are still undiscovered. Hopefully, some of these locations will be new to you and you’ll be able to discover a new European favorite!

Here's a Short Cut

1 | Amalfi Coast + Rome

2 | paris + london, 3 | ireland + iceland, 4 | heidelberg, germany + strasbourg, france, 5 | colmar, france + basel, switzerland, 6 | interlaken + lucerne, switzerland, 7 | lake como, italy + zermatt, switzerland, 8 | paris + normandy, 9 | iceland and the scottish highlands, 10 | venice and lake como, 11 | the ionian islands, greece, 12 | ireland + northern ireland, 13 | edinburgh + scottish highlands, 14 | colmar + strasbourg, 15 | loire valley + paris, 16 | london + cotswolds, 17 | cinque terre + florence, 18 | prague + vienna, 19 | budapest + bratislava, 20 | lucca + sardinia, 21 | lisbon + algarve, 22 | vienna + hallstatt + salzburg , 23 | croatia + montenegro, 24 | budapest + bratislava + vienna, practical tips for booking your trip.

This is one of my very favorite European vacation destinations. There are hundreds of choices for stunning history and scenery when you visit Italy, but this Amalfi Coast and Rome itinerary gives you the best of both worlds. Rome is one of the top places to visit in Europe and offers history around every corner…literally, while on the Amalfi Coast you will be overwhelmed by breathtaking ocean views.

Spend several days in Rome, then head south to the Amalfi Coast via Naples and spend a few more relaxing on the beach and driving the coast. It’s one of the best European beach vacations you can take! Amalfi is also one of the most popular Europe vacation spots during the month of August, so you may want to take that into consideration when planning your trip.

Check out these other 5 amazing itineraries for Italy.  Italy is one of the best countries to visit in Europe due to its size and variety of landscapes, cultures, and attractions.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Rome

GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Getting from Rome to Amalfi is easy. Take the train from Rome to Naples, from there take the bus to Sorrento. There are many tour buses that travel along the coast, or you can rent a car and do the driving yourself.

WHERE TO STAY Rome | Amalfi RESOURCES How to Spend One Day in Rome Family Guide to Rome How to Spend 2 Days in Naples How to Survive Train Travel in Italy The Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy Tips for Renting a Car in Europe i Heart Italy

If you’re looking for a European vacation with a lot of history and class, this is it! I can’t even count the number of times that I have done the Paris/London combo. I’ve done it with kids, as a couple, as a girls’ trip, and as a field trip. No joke! And every time I go, it’s like completely different cities. You can follow completely different options for London and Paris itineraries and have an amazing time no matter what you choose. In my opinion, these are two of the best cities to visit in Europe as they offer a huge amount of culture, food, and entertainment bang for your buck!

When I plan our family trip to Europe each year, I make sure to always include both Paris and London. These are two of my favorite places in all of Europe. They are popular for good reason. Both Paris and London are so vast and diverse that you can have a new experience each time you visit. The best part about visiting these two cities is that they are very easy to travel between with the help of the Eurostar. It’s a quick journey from the heart of one city to the next that requires no airports, no flying, and no hassle. Note: You will need a   passport or visa   to travel between England and France and you will need to go through customs before boarding the Eurostar.

I’ve created an easy-to-use day-by-day itinerary for Paris and London so that you can show up and enjoy your trip. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into London or Paris GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Take the Eurostar

WHERE TO STAY Paris | London

RESOURCES Paris Walking Guide Paris with Kids Foods You Must Try in Paris Paris Neighborhood Guide How to Use the Paris Bike System London Travel Guide Perfect London Itinerary London with Kids Christmas in London Paddington’s Guide to London How to Use the Paris Bike System

If you’re looking for a European vacation with wild nature and rural beauty, this option is a winner. While both of these spectacular islands really deserve their own week (or weeks really), a trip combining the two is possible, thanks to affordable flights between Iceland and Ireland. A good route would be Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, combined with the west of Ireland including Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and the Cliffs of Moher. These countries are some of the best places to go in Europe if you love majestic natural beauty.

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Iceland as its one of the cheapest ways to get to Europe. GETTING BETWEN COUNTRIES:  From Iceland , take a quick flight to Ireland. Dublin , Belfast , Cork, or Shannon Airports are usually where you’ll find the best deals.

WHERE TO STAY Ireland | Iceland

RESOURCES Iceland on a Budget Bucket List Things to do in Iceland Iconic Things to do in Dublin Day Trips from Dublin What to do in Killarney Perfect Ireland Itinerary Ireland with Kids Ireland Packing List

This one-week European itinerary includes two of my favorite cities in Europe! Heidelberg, Germany, known for its ancient castle and walkable downtown is a perfect companion to Strasbourg, France only an hour and a half away, in the Alsace region of France, known for its impressive cathedral and half-timber houses. These towns are particularly spectacular during the Christmas season and some of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe. This will be the best Europe itinerary for those looking to spend time in provincial looking towns!

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Frankfurt, Germany GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES:  Drive for 1.5 hours or take the train for 1.5 hours.

WHERE TO STAY Heidelberg | Strasbourg

RESOURCES Best European Christmas Markets European Christmas Market Treats What to do in Strasbourg What to do in Heidelberg, Germany What to do in Strasbourg, France

If you want to spend your Europen vacation wandering charming streets and feeling like you’re in a fairytale, this is it. Basel, Switzerland holds a special place in my heart and is often an overlooked town. Only a quick 45-minute train ride from the popular and iconic Colmar, France, Basel offers a unique culture that only a town on the border of three countries can. Basel is especially fun during Herbstmesse, the local Autumn Fair when the city literally turns into a fair! Combine these two beautiful cities for a one-of-a-kind holiday.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Basel or Zurich GETTING BETWEEN CITIES:  Drive 45 minutes or Train 30 minutes

WHERE TO STAY Colmar |  Basel

RESOURCES What to do in Basel Guide to Colmar, France

No European vacation list would be complete without including the unimaginable beauty of the Swiss Alps. Switzerland is a wonderland of natural beauty for the outdoor enthusiast or even anyone who has a remote interest in pretty scenery! It’s one of the best countries in Europe for those who love outdoor activity and natural beauty. It’s just jaw-droppingly gorgeous.

For such a small country, there is so much to see and with two of Switzerland most breathtaking areas just a few hours from each other, it’s worth visiting both of them. These areas offer pristine lakes, ancient gorges, colossal mountains, and a vast array of cultural activities.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Zurich, Switzerland GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Train to Lucerne, Train to Interlaken

WHERE TO STAY Interlaken | Lucerne

RESOURCES Switzerland Itinerary Swiss Food Guide Switzerland Packing List 24 Hours in Zurich What to do in Interlaken What to do in Lucerne

If you’d like your Europe trip to have a good mix of beach and mountain time, this is the perfect combination. Lake Como is probably one of my top favorite places on the planet. It is totally magical and peaceful, and I’ve written about it multiple times and helped friends and family plan trips there. Don’t skip Lake Como on your next trip to Italy. One of my favorite parts of Lake Como is its proximity to the Swiss border. You can actually hike over the borer and into Switzerland! But if you’d rather not hike, hop in the car and take a trip to Zermatt, Switzerland, home of the famous towering mountain, Matterhorn.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Milan, Italy GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Drive 3 hours to Zermatt or take a 4 hour Train ride from Milan

WHERE TO STAY Lake Como | Zermatt

RESOURCES Guide to Lake Como Boating Lake Como Guide to Zermatt Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy i Heart Italy

This is a European vacation full of charm, but also a healthy dose of history and reality. A Paris-Normandy itinerary of Europe combines all the glamor and romance of the city of light with the charm, history, and beauty of Northern France. Spend several days in Paris, taking several day trips, including the impressive floating Mont Saint Michel. This area is one of the best places to visit in Europe for history lovers.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Paris GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Drive 3 hours

WHERE TO STAY Paris | Normandy

RESOURCES Paris Itinerary Paris Walking Guide Paris with Kids Foods You Must Try in Paris Paris Neighbgorhood Guide Guide to Normandy Guide to Visiting Mont Saint Michel France with Kids

Two naturally and culturally beautiful countries are just a short and cheap flight apart and a great combination for a one-week European itinerary, although both countries could take weeks to explore on their own.  Spend a few days in Iceland, then take a cheap hopper flight and explore the mystical highlands of Scotland.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Reykjavik GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES: Fly into Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, or Aberdeen

WHERE TO STAY Iceland | Scotland

RESOURCES Iceland on a Budget Scotland Itinerary What to do in Inverness What to do on the Isle of Skye Scotland Packing List

Some of my favorite Italian destinations, Venice and Lake Como, both built on water, are ideal locations for aquatic enthusiasts. Taking a ride on a gondola in Venice is one of the best things to do in Europe! Take the Vaporetto (water bus) in Venice, then take a short drive or train ride to Lake Como and enjoy boating and relaxing on the beach in one of the adorable villages lining the lake.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Venice or Milan GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 3.5 hours by car or 10 hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Venice | Lake Como

RESOURCES Guide to Lake Como Boating Lake Como Surviving Train Travel in Italy Guide to Venice Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy i Heart Italy

If you’re interested in cheap Europe trips, the gorgeous Ionian islands of Greece are one of the best-kept secrets in Europe. Naturally and culturally diverse, affordable, and downright beautiful, Kefalonia and Corfu make great choices for one week in Europe.

Explore ancient ruins, relax on pristine beaches with locals, and dine, affordably, like a Greek god. If you’re travelling Europe on a budget, this is a great option and Greece is one of the best places to visit in Europe in summer if you’re looking for gorgeous beaches at affordable prices.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Kefalonia from London on Ryanair GETTING BETWEEN ISLANDS: Take a ferry between the Ionian Islands from Greek Ferries

WHERE TO STAY Kefalonia | Corfu

RESOURCES Guide to Kefalonia Greece The Ionian Islands The Best Beaches on Corfu What to Wear in Greece Guide to Athens

Two countries on one island? Yep! Take a visit to Ireland AND Northern Ireland. Two countries that are very similar, but also very different. Explore the entire island with this perfect itinerary.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Dublin or any airport in Ireland GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES: Rent a Car. Driving in Ireland can be tricky and slow, but worth the views and the adventure.

WHERE TO STAY Ireland | Northern Ireland

RESOURCES The Best Places to Visit in Ireland Perfect Ireland Itinerary Ireland with Kids What to do in Killarney Scotland and Ireland Itinerary Ireland Packing List

Scotland is one country that should really be given an entire week. You could definitely say that about any destination, but for a relatively small country, but it has so much to offer that you could spend years here and not see it all.

For one week in Scotland, I recommend visiting Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands, including the Isle of Skye. Read here for an entire Scotland Itinerary, here for Edinburgh , here for Inverness and the Highlands , and here for the Isle of Skye.

GETTING THERE:  Flying into Edinburgh is usually the cheapest option. GETTING BETWEN AREAS:  It’s best to rent a car or hire a driver or tour company. Be sure to read my guide to driving in Scotland.  

WHERE TO STAY Ediburgh | Inverness | Isle of Skye

RESOURCES Perfect Scotland Itinerary What to do in Edinburgh What to do in Inverness What to do on the Isle of Skye Scotland Packing List

What could be more charming than a week spent in these “poor provincial towns.” Ok, so they’re definitely not poor or provincial, but you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Belle’s hometown from Beauty and the Beast .

The ancient half-timber homes built along scenic rivers provide a feast for the eyes, while the patisseries, boulangeries, shops, and restaurants provide a feast for the tongue. Split your time between these two idyllic towns and enjoy a peaceful trip back in time.

If you visit Colmar or Strasbourg during Christmas, these towns will be even more magical! Strasbourg is known as “The Capital of Christmas” and both towns have incredible Christmas markets and decorations!

GETTING THERE:  Fly into Zurich GETTING BETWEEN COUNTRIES:  30 minutes by train or 1 hour by car

WHERE TO STAY Colmar | Strasbourg

RESOURCES 24 Hours in Zurich Guide to Colmar Guide to Strasbourg The Most Magical European Christmas Markets Must-Have European Christmas Market Treats 

Divide your time between the ancient and modern city of light and the historic Loire Valley , home to magnificent palaces, stunning gardens, and green pastures. This one-week itinerary is the perfect balance between city and country life and will provide you with a mix of excitement, peace, and romance. It can be hard to squeeze everything you want into one week European itineraries, but this is a must!

Be sure to map out the castles and palaces you want to see along the way. Our favorite is Chenonceau ! Don’t miss it!

GETTING THERE: Fly into Paris GETTING AROUND:  Rent a car and drive two hours to the Loire Valley

WHERE TO STAY Loire Valley | Paris

RESOURCES Walking Guide to Paris Paris with Kids Day Trips from Paris Foods You Must Try in Paris Guide to the Loire Valley 15 Affordable Castles You Can Stay In

This London and Cotswolds Itinerary provides the best of both British worlds, encompassing both the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s oldest and largest cities and the peace and tranquility of the quaint cottage speckled Cotswolds.

As much as I love London (it’s my favorite city), I do get tired of the crowds and the constant noise. It is so refreshing to get into the countryside and have a change of scenery during your time in London. The Cotswolds are a fairytale-like dream trip. Be sure to grab cream tea every chance you get!

GETTING THERE: Fly into one of three London Airports GETTING AROUND: Rent a car and explore the whole Cotswolds area

WHERE TO STAY London | Cotswolds

RESOURCES London Travel Guide Complete Guide to London Perfect London Itinerary London with Kids Paddington’s Guide to London Christmas in London Guide to the Cotswolds

I call this itinerary the best of Northern Italy. Italy is huge and has so much to offer geographically and culturally, but one of my favorite parts of Italy is the train system. The trains in Italy allow for easy access to most major sites, but it can be slightly confusing, so be sure to read this guide to train travel in Italy before you go. Getting between Florence and Cinque Terre is simple with the right knowledge.

The great thing about this itinerary is that you will get to see a big city full of culture, history, and art, and also spend time swimming at the beach and on a boat soaking up rays in in the Liguerian Sea. Read here for Florence, here for Cinque Terre, here for Trains in Italy.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Florence GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: Two hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Cinque Terre | Florence

RESOURCES Guide to Cinque Terre Guide to Florence How to Survive Train Travel in Italy Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy

I think Prague and Vienna might be some of the most underrated cities in Europe, and they are worth dedicating an entire week to. Stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and cultural activities abound in these cities that are just a few hours apart.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna or Prague GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 3-hour drive or 4-hour train ride

WHERE TO STAY Prague | Vienna

RESOURCES One Day in Prague What to do in Vienna

If you’re looking for cheap European vacations, the farther east you go, the cheaper it generally gets. These are two cities that had never really been on my bucket list, and to be honest, I had never even heard of Bratislava, which is in Slovakia by the way! Both cities are charming and culturally rich. They are especially festive and beautiful around Christmas time.

Bratislava is on the way between Budapest and Vienna (you can even cycle between Budapest and Vienna ) and Budapest and Prague, so if you’re thinking of doing a combination of any of those cities, it’s a great stop.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Budapest GETTING BETWEEN CITIES: 2 hours by car, 2.5 hours by train

WHERE TO STAY Budapest | Bratislava

RESOURCES What to do in Budapest European Christmas Markets What to do in Bratislava

These incredible destinations in Italy are not well known, but that is part of the appeal. I would say they are a good option for a cheaper and less crowded alternative to the  Florence and Cinque Terre itinerary.

Lucca is a walled city in Tuscany offering stunning architecture and culture with great family fun activities such as riding bikes along the top of the medieval wall around the city. Sardinia is a heavenly island, just a ferry ride away full of breathtaking beaches, delicious food, and friendly locals. Known as one of the five blue zones in the world- places in the world where people live longer and healthier than anywhere else on earth-Sardinia will make you feel younger and more alive just by visiting.

GETTING THERE: Fly into Rome or Florence GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a Ferry from Civitavecchia to Olbia

WHERE TO STAY Lucca | Sardinia

RESOURCES One Day in Rome What to do in Lucca Sardinia Best Places to Visit in Italy How to Spend 10 Days in Italy What to Wear in Italy

Portugal is a beautiful country full of diverse landscapes, amazing beaches, and cultural city centers. Lisbon is a stunning city and the Algarve region in the south of Portugal offers sunny beaches with world-famous surfing. There are some really cheap flights to Lisbon from the US right now and you can either drive, train, bus, or fly to the Algarve easily. As a southern European country, Portugal is a great choice for a winter destination. We were there last January and could still get in the water. There are many towns to choose from in the Algarve and they are all equally unique and beautiful. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Lisbon GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a plane, car, or bus to the Algarve.

The Perfect Portugal Itinerary

This one week in Europe spent in Austria is a dream. Combining the culture of Vienna and Salzburg with the picturesque feel of Hallstatt, it’s sure to satisfy any traveler. In my opinion, this is a great winter destination if you don’t mind the cold. Vienna and Salzburg have several amazing Christmas markets and Hallstatt is simply a dream to see in the snow! 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take a train to Salzburg (2.5 hours). A great way to see Hallstatt is to take a day trip from Salzburg.

Hallstatt Day Trip

European Christmas Markets

Christmas Market Treats

If you’re into coastal towns, walled cities, and breathtaking scenery, this combination is for you. The Dalmation Coast is absolutely stunning. The bordering country of Montenegro is really the hidden gem of Europe, offering the same draw as Croatia, but with far fewer tourists. I recommend going during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to be able to enjoy warmer weather with fewer crowds. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Dubrovnik, Croatia  GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS:  Take a Day Trip to Montenegro

Two of the most underrated cities in Europe if you ask me, Budapest and Bratislava are both cities that offer an amazing array of culture and also incredible food. If you’re up for the cold weather, these cities all have incredible Christmas markets and stunning decorations around the holidays. These cities are also all connected by rail so you can easily navigate between them. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into Vienna or Budapest GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Take the train between each city. Bratislava would be a good day trip from Vienna.

25 | Berlin + Prague

If you love history and architecture, then these two cities will captivate you! Split your time between the two, rent a car and take a road trip between them to enjoy some beautiful scenery. 

GETTING THERE: Fly into either Berlin or Prague, whichever airport is cheaper.  GETTING BETWEEN DESTINATIONS: Rent a car and take a road trip between Berlin and Prague.

Whichever Europe Itinerary you choose, you’re guaranteed to love it. You can definitely see so much of Europe in a week and you really can’t go wrong with any of these choices. Just remember to relax and enjoy and also remember that this probably won’t be the last Europe trip of your lifetime.

Not the Trip You Need?

Not exactly the trip you’re looking for? Don’t worry, I also offer custom trip planning by request for many destinations! Learn more here.

Book Your Flight s and Car Find a budget airlines by using  Skyscanner . This is my favorite way to search for flights because they crawl websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know you’re getting the best deal. Learn more tips for finding the best flight deals here. For cars, I like to use Rental Cars because they have good filters and its easy to search for multiple companies.

Book Your Accommodation My preferred way to stay around the world is VRBO . I find it usually gives you a unique local experience in any destination. If you want to stay in a hotel, use  Booking , as it consistently gives the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. I use them both all the time.

Always Get Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you and your family against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for the last few years and love how easy it is to use. I have also used Allianz . Compare rates to see which is best for the coverage you need.

Looking for ways to save money on travel? Check out my  resource page  for the companies I use for traveling! I share everything I use to save me time and money.

Wanderlust Crew

9 thoughts on “ 20 one-week europe trip itinerary ideas ”.

Hi there, My husband and I will be celebrating our 20th anniversary next March and would love to go somewhere in Europe for a week. I have only been to Italy (over 20 years ago) and he’s never been. I’m a bit overwhelmed by even trying to figure out where to go. Can you help? Thanks! Hannah

Hi Hannah. I can definitely help! I’ve got several Italy Itinerary ideas for Italy here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/10-days-in-italy/ I also do custom trip planning, specifically for Italy, if you’re interested in that, you can find more info here: https://wanderlustcrew.com/custom-travel-planning/ Italy will be so much fun! One of my favorite places on earth! xo Vanessa

Very helpful! Thank you. We are planning a one year stay & this helped with our itinerary tremendously.

Oh that sounds amazing! You’ll see so much!

Great ideas! We hope we’ll be able to travel to Europe again soon!

Thanks so much! Me too! Going as soon as it’s safe!!

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Very good these tips I was even thinking about taking a vacation for a few days, thank you

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25 Very Best Weekend Trips In Europe

Lloyd and I always seek a way to try to travel as often as possible whilst still working and studying. Well, this meant we had to be savvy with our free time, so looking for the very best weekend trips in Europe was essential. 

This is perfect if you’re working full-time because weekend travel requires you to use ZERO holiday days. Well, unless you fancy tagging on an extra few days; which is justifiable. 

This is exactly why we wanted to share some of the best weekend trips in Europe that’ll sort out any wanderlust feelings you might have.

Plus, under each of the 25 different places, we’ve popped a link to a dedicated post on that very place. This all means you can get the full low-down on each spot without having to miss any of the weekend spots! 

Take a look, below, at some of the best weekend trips in Europe to enjoy. Have the best time! 

1.) London, UK

London is always an easy win as there’s always so much to do whilst you’re in buzzing London town. 

There are lots of places with the best views , some amazing and unique restaurants to visit , not to mention the best bars and secret spots you definitely have to see .

Oh, and that’s before we’ve even got to the most stunning London palaces and all the best areas in London, too. 

Read more: Best areas of London to explore

2.) Cinque Terre, Italy

One of the most colourful places to visit in Italy, Cinque Terre is an amazingly picturesque place to spend a lovely and relaxing weekend in.

Unless you like to hike of course in which case, you’re going to the right place anyway.

Here’s a complete guide on Cinque Terre and some photos from the 5 towns; Riomaggiore , Corniglia , Manarola , Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare .

Read more: Best things to do in Cinque Terre

3.) Paris, France

Paris as a city is another easy win though my favourite time to visit Paris is definitely in the summer. It is one of the best weekend trips in Europe if you love a city break. 

Summer in mainland Europe always seems a lot nicer and there are so many outdoor festivities, picnics and dinners just waiting to be had.

Do check out these  free things to do in Paris , dine in  these restaurants with the best views in Paris , see these essential sights in Paris and have a little fun searching for these secret spots in Paris .

Read more: Best markets in Paris to visit

4.) Split, Croatia

Not only is Split an amazing city to visit  (make sure you check out Diocletian’s Palace , especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan), but it’s also quite close to beautiful islands like Solta  and lovely seaside towns like the Markaska Riviera .

We’ve also got an action-packed itinerary to help you plan what to do when you visit Croatia in general.

Read more: Best places in Croatia to visit

5.)  Gothenburg, Sweden

This laid-back Swedish city packs a lot of fun for a weekend away .

You could always plan everything out though, in our experience, this is one of those cities where you’re best throwing caution to the wind and playing the weekend by ear.

If you have a bit more time, step away from the city and check out some of the gorgeous neighbouring towns .

Read more: Best things to do in Stockholm

6.) Budapest, Hungary

There’s so much to do here during the day and at night through one of the best parts about visiting this city is how affordable it is. It is one of the best weekend trips in Europe, and much cheaper than cities like London or Paris, too. 

Affordability is relative of course but Budapest is unique in that the affordability doesn’t come at the cost of a lack of exciting things to see, do and eat in the city.

It’s one of the cities where luxury hotels are a lot more attainable and you can splash out a lot more on.

Read more: Best things to do in Budapest

7.) Florence, Italy

My love for Florence has been stated time and time again.

With lots of sights to see , an abundance of amazing restaurants and stunning places with amazing views .

It’s probably easy to see why a weekend away in Florence is just what you need.

Read more: Best things to do in Florence

8.) Venice, Italy

Venice is one of those cities where even if you’re the most cynical people in the world, you won’t be able to help but fall prey to Venice’s romantic charm.

The beautiful side streets, gondola rides and Venetian architecture are just incredible to see and experience when you visit. Although a weekend here will leave you wanting to come back, you can cover most of the sights here in a weekend.

Do check out our complete guide to all the sights in Venice to help you plan your trip. Venice is easily one of the best weekend trips in Europe, especially as it’s a unique water city! 

Read more: Best things to do in Venice

9.) Edinburgh, Scotland

Without a doubt, the very best time to visit Edinburgh is during the annual Fringe Festival. It’s also one of the most expensive times to visit but this month with lots of free stuff to do in the city , things tend to balance themselves out.

The fringe festival is a month-long festival with visitors from all over the world and the energy in Edinburgh is pretty electric. Edinburgh also has lots of great bars , restaurants and a whole host of amazing experiences just waiting to be had.

Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh

10.) Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of those compact cities that is easy to explore in a weekend however you leave feeling like there’s so much more to see (and you would be right about that too).

It’s amazing and one of the best weekend trips in Europe that we loved! 

Read more: Best things to do in Copenhagen

11.) Barcelona, Spain

Gaudi’s home city is famed all around the world and lives up to the hype.

There’s no other city in Spain quite like it and with its amazing sights to see , a wealth of exciting restaurants to eat in an uber-cool vibe, a weekend in Barcelona is one that definitely feels like a good choice to make.

Read more: Best free things to do in Barcelona

12.) Porto, Portugal

Porto is synonymous with good wine, delicious food and a weekend getaway where you can take in some real Portuguese charm at a leisurely pace.

It’s also a very colourful city and an amazing place to visit for a couple of days (or even longer). It’s one of the best weekend trips in Europe that you can easily partner with a trip down Portugal’s dramatic coastline, too. 

Read more: Best things to do in Porto

13.) Oslo, Norway

This Norwegian city is definitely a fascinating city to visit though it’s also an amazing place to go to when you want to see the fjords of Norway as the train system here is pretty much on point and you’re no more than a couple of hours away at most from a stunning fjord.

There’s also a lot to see and do in the city of course but Norway’s true charm lies in how cities and nature seem very intertwined .

Read more: Best things to do in Oslo

14.) Prague, Czech Republic

Easily considered a beautiful and one of the most charming cities in Europe, Prague has a wealth of sights to see and free stuff to get up to that will keep you busy all weekend long.

We loved it! 

Read more: Best things to do in Prague

15.) Flam, Norway

Flam is a gateway to three amazing fjords  (which you can take a fjord safari through ) and although there’s not really much in Flam, it’s the perfect spot for a nice and relaxing weekend getaway.

The train ride here is also pretty epic by the way and one of the best train journeys in the world .

Read more: Best things to do in Norway

16.) Nimes, France

This city in the South of France looks like it’s straight out of Rome (or somewhere equally as grand in Italy).

It’s got a strong Roman heritage (complete with Colosseum) and some of the best creme brulee you’ve ever tasted.

Read more: Best things to do in Nimes

17.) Berlin, Germany

I’ll just come out and say it, a weekend in Berlin is not nearly enough time to explore the city but this is not a bad thing. Visiting for a weekend and feeling like coming back is always a good thing when it comes to cities like Berlin.

The city is exciting and ever-evolving and even my friends from Berlin feel like there are still so many parts of the city they haven’t discovered yet so you won’t be alone in feeling that way.

Oh yeah, don’t forget about Potsdam too.

Read more: Best places to see in Berlin

18.) Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is easily the one city we’ve visited the most, out of all the cities in the world and with good reason too.

Every visit to Amsterdam exposes a new part of the city and new ways to explore the city we’ve just leaned into this vibe now and have our next two trips to the city already planned.

What does this mean for you? Even if you have been to Amsterdam, a trip back is pretty much guaranteed to be fun-filled!

Read more: Best things to see in Amsterdam

19.) Reykjavik, Iceland

Even in winter, Reykjavik is a colourful city and although it feels like you don’t need much more than a day to spend in the city, Reykjavik’s greatest appeal stretches far beyond the city .

Its appeal lies in all the amazing natural wonders surrounding the city and just waiting for you to explore. There are so many amazing places in Iceland to see . So, we’ve put together a 1-week itinerary to help you get started with your trip to Iceland. 

Oh and don’t forget the food. Icelandic food is pretty great . We ended up eating so much all across the country.

Read more: Best things to do in Iceland

20.) Lisbon, Portugal

Forget a weekend – Lisbon is a city I’d happily move to for months on end and with good reason too .

The city is fun, has amazing food (yes, I keep talking about food but it’s an important part of travel) and is quite easy to spend an amazing weekend in .

Also, for some epic things to see, check into these gorgeous spots in Lisbon , it’s the perfect place to chill whilst on the best weekend trips in Europe. So lovely. 

Read more: Best things to do in Lisbon

21.) Brussels, Belgium

Even if it’s just for the chocolate and waffles, you’ve got to take a weekend trip to Brussels .

Of course, there’s so much more to see and do here but I honestly won’t judge you if you wanna visit just for those two reasons. 

Read more: Best things to do in Brussels

22.) Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds is  one of the most beautiful places you can visit in the UK and every time we return, this only serves to re-affirm what we already knew .

There are so many quaint English villages to see here which just makes the list of reasons to visit the Cotswolds grow larger and larger. You’ll have the best time and easily one of the best weekend trips in Europe if you’ve got a car to dart around the area in. 

Read more: Best places in the Cotswolds to visit

23.) The Hebrides (Scotland), UK

A weekend here is all about getting lost in nature and far-often rarely-seen rural British life.

The Hebrides are unlike anywhere else you can visit in the UK and are an eye-opener when it comes to how amazing and beautiful Scotland truly is .

Read more: Best places in the Highlands to visit

24.) San Sebastian, Spain

This Basque Country city is a true gem in Spain and although it’s one of the most expensive places to visit in Spain, a trip here is most certainly worth it.

When you’re here, you can pop down to the gorgeous beach , try pintxos at every restaurant/bar possible and  have a generally great time just ambling around the city.  

If you’re planning a bigger trip around the Basque country (including San Sebastian ), then do check out this 4-day travel plan to help you get started.

Read more: Best things to do in San Sebastian

25.) Istanbul, Turkey

Although Turkey is technically in Europe and in Asia, Istanbul is still a worthy addition to the list of cities worth visiting for a weekend as it is exciting, vibrant and full of character.

There are lots of great experiences you can have here though do check out the  FCO website before you visit.

Read more: Best things to do in Istanbul

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The 18 best city breaks in Europe for 2024

Got time off and want to explore the continent? These are the best city breaks in Europe for food, nightlife, and more

The city break continues to rule in 2024. According to ABTA , city breaks overtook beach holidays as the UK’s favourite type of trip last year – and travel booking site  Opodo  has reported that nearly half of all trips taken in 2023 were between two to four days. Long live the long weekend, eh?

When it comes to cramming in the best food, nightlife and culture in one whistlestop weekend,  Europe really does spoil you for choice. Of course, there are the classics – Rome , Amsterdam , Paris – but the continent is packed with lesser-known second cities and more obscure cultural capitals that make for the ideal affordable city break in 2024. 

From gastronomic delights and cultural cubby holes to all-hours party hotspots, Europe’s best city breaks tick all the boxes. But with so many options, where should you head? Well, we’ve narrowed it down for you: in our list of Europe’s best city breaks, everywhere from France to Bosnia and Herzegovina is covered. See you out there!

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📍 The absolute best things to do in Europe 🗺 The most underrated travel destinations in Europe 🛤 The ultimate Europe Interrailing itinerary

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Amazing European city breaks for 2024

1.  porto, portugal.

Porto is nothing short of postcard-worthy. If you’re not drinking in views of the Douro Valley, you’ll certainly be drinking something here – head to one of the riverside port houses for a wine tasting or grab a port-tonic at one of the many glorious rooftop bars. As well as being gorgeous to walk around, the city is also packed with quaint bookshops, old-school cinemas and tinned fish. Plus, it’s soon to be home to Portugal’s second Time Out Market . Watch this space.

📍 Porto’s very  best things to do 🏖️ The best beaches near Porto 🐟 The best restaurants in Porto

2.  Brighton, UK

A former Victorian fishing village turned party town, the seaside city of Brighton is now most notoriously associated with a love of brunch, coffee and vegetarian food. Sure, Brightonians still love to party – the city’s annual Pride celebration is the biggest of its kind in the UK – but the charming pebbled beach, quaint North Laine shops and lovely pubs make for a cracking getaway destination that's not all about the night out (though there is a great selection of bars to keep the night going, if the mood takes you).

📍 The best things to do in Brighton 🍹 Brighton’s best bars 🍳 The best brunch spots in Brighton

3.  Tbilisi, Georgia

Packed with whimsical architecture and steeped in fascinating history: what more could you want from a European city break? Tbilisi, situated at the heart of the historic Silk Road trading route, is one of the world’s oldest capitals – making it the perfect destination for a dose of culture. Medieval churches? It’s got ‘em. A factory turned into a shopping and eating hot spot? Absolutely. Incredibly delicious local wine? Top us up.

📍 The best things to do in Tbilisi

4.  Marseille, France

A Mediterranean melting pot that’s been bubbling for an astonishing 2,600 years, Marseille ’s been drawing an increasing number of visitors in recent years. Though it once had a slightly rough-edged reputation as a town of sailors and gangsters, these days Marseille is better known for jaw-dropping vistas of its calanques, beaches of every shape and size, world-class museums and some of France’s (and Europe’s) most spectacular rooftop bars. It’s an ancient, fascinating and alive city.

📍 The best things to do in Marseille 🌊  Marseille’s Calanques: the ultimate guide 🥘 The best restaurants in Marseille

5.  Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sat in the northwest corner of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bihać is all about the magic of the Una River. Eco-friendly accommodations such as  Japodski Otoci  and  Eko-Selo Natura Art  offer adventure and restoration in equal measure, while the bike route from the centre of town to the remains of Sokolac Fortress is ideal for energetic cyclists in search of valley views. After several local initiatives to clean up the surrounding lakes and rivers, now you’ve got a destination embracing all that Bosnia’s most beautiful river has to offer.  

6.  Valletta, Malta

Valletta might be the smallest capital city in the EU, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty, history, food, nightlife and so much more. Plus,  Malta  boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year, meaning you’re almost guaranteed a warm weekend break in Valletta. Explore the city’s sandstone-paved streets, chow down on pastizzi (a type of Maltese savoury pastry) and soak up the sun on the steps of Cafe Society, a bar with alfresco seating and a unique view of the Grand Harbour.

📍 The best things to do in Valletta 🏝️ The best beaches in Malta

7.  Milan, Italy

Milan has shed its industrial image in recent years and created a more sustainable metropolis with a  ‘green lung’  surrounding it. Big events like the famous  Salone del Mobile  furniture fair take over  Milan  with lively art installations and events open to design pros and the public alike, while the city also plays host to marvellous music festivals like the  Milano Summer Festival .  Plus, it’s home to Isola, named one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods in our annual ranking this year.

📍 The best things to do in Milan 🍝 Milan’s best restaurants 🛍️ Where to go shopping in Milan

8.  Bilbao, Spain

Cosmopolitan but traditional. Sophisticated but edgy. Fun but chill. From the glorious Guggenheim and the bridges that criss-cross the Nirvión river to the refined old town – and not forgetting, of course, a city’s worth of drool-worthy pintxos to sample – Bilbao is a city of contrasts. Over the past few decades, the city has been completely transformed, evolving from the industrial heart of Spain’s Basque region to a fascinating cultural hub.

📍 The best things to do in Bilbao

9.  Brno, Czech Republic

Although sandwiched between  Prague  and  Vienna , self-confident Brno is no middle child. Once a powerhouse dubbed the ‘Moravian Manchester’, the laidback  Czech  second city has repositioned itself as a post-industrial science and tech hub. But you’ll find plenty of clues to Brno’s layered past at a clutch of offbeat underground attractions, including the mysterious brick cisterns at Žlutý Kopec, communist-era nuclear bunker 10-Z, and the ‘Denis’ bomb shelter under the cathedral. The food and drink scene is reinventing itself too, from contemporary international at  Element  to  Výčep na Stojáka , a modern take on a trad pub.

10.  Liverpool, UK

The nightlife scene here is funner and wilder and friendlier than anywhere else in the UK. Now it’s time for everyone else to discover it too. The venues of the Baltic Triangle pack out year-round, but you may want to head down in August for something bigger like  Creamfields  or  International Beatle Week . Also check out  DaDaFest International , one of the world’s leading festivals of work by disabled, deaf and neurodiverse artists – a welcome reminder of what an inclusive place this really is. 

📍 The very best things to do in Liverpool 🍺 The greatest Liverpool pubs 🎨 Liverpool’s best museums

11.  Hamburg, Germany

Brisk with sea air, brimming with Hanseatic pride and open to the world not only in terms of centuries of maritime trade, but also in its vivid mix of nationalities, identities and political inclinations, Germany’s second city is a force to be reckoned with. From the Elbphilharmonie to the Reeperbahn, Hamburg  is a harbour city with cultural wealth in spades.

12.  Tampere, Finland

It might be the world’s sauna capital and Finland’s second-biggest city, but Tampere is still very much an overlooked gem. The city might not stay under the radar for much longer, mind you: t hanks to the buzzy student population and recently opened tram line, it has the energy of a place that knows it’s about to become the next big thing.  With an eclectic culture scene, menus packed with locally foraged food and dozens of traditional wood-heated saunas to relax in, Tampere makes for an ideal city break – visit before the saunas get too cosy.

📍 I fell for  Finland’s second city – here’s why you will too

13.  Kaunas, Lithuania

Back in the 1930s, few places felt as happening as Kaunas. In the interwar period, with Vilnius occupied by the Polish, this smaller, central city was named the temporary capital of Lithuania. Embassies opened all over the shop. Artists flocked here in droves. The city became the unofficial home of modernist architecture. But then it was forgotten, left to wither during the Soviet era and surpassed again by Vilnius. Still basking in the afterglow of being European Capital of Culture in 2022, the city has tonnes of delights from its hundreds of modernist masterpieces to the  M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art  (dedicated to the musician and symbolist painter) and the frankly bizarre  Devils’ Museum .

14.  Galway, Ireland

A jewel of the rugged Atlantic coast that’s brimming with Irish charm, Galway makes for a cracking getaway. This small but mighty west Irish city is nestled among glorious scenery and is only a stone’s throw away from the Cliffs of Moher, but has bags of good art, good food and good craic, too. It's a very walkable place, so wander around and drink in its bounty of independent shops, pubs and restaurants. To get a taste of the city’s thriving art scene, plan your visit around the International Arts Festival  in the summer.

📍 The best things to do in Galway

15.  Glasgow, UK

Glasgow has always been cool, but the Scottish city has seen something of a glow-up over the last few years.  West End is home to a mixture of families, students and artists, and is packed to the brim with bookshops and vegan cafes. But the city’s artsy side isn’t only concentrated in one neighbourhood: Glasgow ’s ever-growing creative community, in part made up of students and grads from the prestigious Glasgow School of Art, means you’ll never be short of cool galleries and arts events. For something delightfully nerdy, visit this year for the 82nd World Science Fiction Convention . 📍 Glasgow’s very best things to do 🥘 The best restaurants in Glasgow 🎨 The top art galleries to visit in Glasgow

16.  Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a classic when it comes to European city breaks – and for good reason. It tops Spain’s roster of great destinations in so many ways, with an abundance of magnificent architecture, great nightlife, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Head to the (almost, almost finished) Sagrada Familía and sit back in awe, or wander down La Rambla and sample whatever delicious Spanish delicacy is thrown at you. Time Out Market Barcelona is set to become an exciting addition to the city, with our local editors’ picks of the city’s very best food and drinks, all under one vibey roof.

📍 The very  best things to do in Barcelona 🦐 The best restaurants in Barcelona 🍷 Barcelona’s best bars

17.  Trikala, Greece

Birthplace of hashish-inspired protest music rebetiko and home of the popular  Mill of Elves  Christmas market, under-the-radar Trikala in northwestern Thessaly is Greece ’s first official ‘smart city’. Green in all senses of the word, this tree-shaded spot is topped by its Byzantine castle and crisscrossed by the trout-filled Lithaios River. With a bike-sharing scheme and a slew of new cycle paths, it’s easy to get around – and when summer temperatures soar, there are pitstops where you can pick up (free) water. It also has the country’s first driverless buses.

18.  Turku, Finland

With its abundance of café terraces, Turku is often referred to as the ‘Paris of Finland’. But the country’s oldest city (and historic capital) has a distinct vibe of its own. It is big on music for a start, with fabulous festivals throughout the year. Turku is also a leading light in sustainable tourism, with the city running electric boat trips, nature excursions and food tours that showcase the finest local produce. That all forms part of Turku’s plans to become carbon-neutral and ‘zero waste’ by 2040. Want to get there by greener means yourself? The city is easily reachable via train (from Helsinki) and ferry (from Stockholm and Tallinn).

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11 European cities you should visit with a group of friends

Planning a trip with a group of friends can be incredibly stressful. But the right destination offers something to please everyone in a group.

To find out where travellers are going on holiday with their friends, the trip planning and booking website RoutePerfect.com pulled data for the most popular European cities based on 900,000 bookings made either on or through the site.

From party destinations that are home to some of the world's best beer, to more laid-back cities known for their cafes and museums, here are the top 11 cities in the ranking:

11. Madrid, Spain — By day, visit the Prado Museum, which offers a variety of fine European art to suit everyone's taste, or hop on a bike tour for a unique way to see the city's sights, including Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace. By night, share some tapas at La Casa del Abuelo, a well-known tavern that's been around since 1906, followed by a flamenco show.

Source: The Guardian

10. Vienna, Austria — The world's unofficial opera capital, Vienna is the perfect place to visit with a group of friends who are into music. Splurge on tickets for the opera at a gorgeous venue like the Vienna State Opera (pictured below) for an unforgettable experience.

9. Munich, Germany — If you often meet your friends for a beer, take your next pub date to Munich, where you can find some of the world's best beer halls and breweries. If you're looking to party, visit during Oktoberfest, or if you'd rather stay away from the crowds, go on a tour of the city's "Big Six" breweries including Löwenbräu and Hofbräuhaus.

8. Venice, Italy — Squeeze your friends onto a gondola and take it in turns to steer your way under old bridges and past gorgeous buildings like St. Mark's Basilica and Ca’ D’Oro. If your group's really into architecture, plan your trip to coincide with the city's annual Architecture Biennale.

7. Berlin, Germany — Speaking of architecture, the German capital is full of unusually designed buildings like the Reichstag and the Berlin Philharmonic concert hall. If your friends are more into street art, there's plenty of that too — especially around the streets of Kreuzberg, a once run-down neighbourhood that's become a trendy place to go out.

6. London, UK — The British capital is full of fun things to do in a group, especially in hip, bar-heavy areas like Shoreditch. For a fancier night out, go for drinks at Sky Garden, a bar filled with plants at the top of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper. At over 500-feet, the view across the River Thames is spectacular.

5. Prague, Czech Republic — The Czech capital is best seen on foot, so make sure you visit with friends who won't mind walking. A lot. Climb the stairs of the Powder Tower for a picturesque view of central Prague, walk across the Charles Bridge, and make sure you visit the castle. Along the way, you'll meander through winding cobbled roads and, though there are a lot of steps, the view at the top is worth it.

4. Barcelona, Spain — Barcelona is teeming with culture, so make sure you visit with arty friends who will appreciate all the city has to offer. Explore Gaudi's famously incomplete masterpiece La Sagrada Familia and take a picnic to Park Guell to admire more of his work. Santa Maria de Montserrat, a monastery on the side of the Montserrat mountain, just outside of the city, is also worth the hike.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands — When in Amsterdam, head to Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market, for a colourful, flower-filled experience, and pick up a caramel Stroopwafel from one of the many food stalls at Albert Cuypmarkt market. If your group is more into beer than dessert, plan a tour of the Heineken brewery.

2. Paris, France — For those who prefer sweets, the French capital is full of cafes and patisseries offering delicious pastries, crepes, cakes, and macarons. To work off dessert, enjoy some shopping at one of the world's most beautiful department stores at Galeries Lafayette, or roam the streets of Le Marais to see some gorgeous old architecture.

1. Rome, Italy — Rome is a culture nerd's paradise, home to remarkable architecture like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. As well as looking at crumbling architecture, visit the stunning landscaped gardens at Villa Borghese for a more off-beat experience.

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15 Best Places for a Girls' Trip in Europe

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Editor's Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.

When you're young, drifting apart from your camp friends or college roommate seems impossible, but the older we get, the harder it is to maintain those friendships.

According to research at Michigan State University in 2017, as we get older, "friendships are actually a stronger predictor of health and happiness than relationships with family members." That means, maintaining your bond with high school friends or a previous work pal may noticeably impact your day-to-day happiness and how long you live. While a phone call or coffee date is a great way to accomplish that, there's nothing like travel to revive a friendship that's been on the back burner for far too long.

And when it comes to spending a week (or more) reconnecting with people you love, Europe is hard to beat. Not only is it relatively easy to reach, but there's something for everyone — from a spa vacation in Switzerland to Barcelona's perfect mix of food, dancing, and architecture. To get you started, we've curated a list of European cities and destinations guaranteed to shake you out of your daily routine and revamp your most important friendships.

Paris, France

Don't let the city of love's reputation for romance deter you. Thanks to their strong appreciation for wine, delicious food, and culture, sisterly love is just as likely to flourish in Paris.

If your group is into art, skip the lines at the Louvre (or be smart about when you go) and head to the Centre Pompidou to experience the first European collection of modern and contemporary art. If museums aren't your thing, experience the work of great artists (think: Gustav Klimt and Vincent van Gogh) at Atelier des Lumières , an immersive digital art exhibition where the works of great artists are projected on the walls of a giant hall.

When night falls, watch the Eiffel Tower light up from an evening boat cruise on the Seine River with Bateaux Parisiens , or get apéritifs at Maison Sauvage , a beautiful, flower-covered cafe, before heading to Le Champo , an arthouse cinema that shows old classics.

Stockholm, Sweden

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

This Nordic city is all about food — and tempting cocktail menus. It's all too easy to pass your days restaurant and bar hopping (no judgement), but make sure your culinary journey leads you through Gamla Stan, the city's Old Town where you'll find Instagram-worthy cobblestone streets and ochre-colored buildings.

Stockholm encompasses 14 islands and has a strong connection to (and reliance on) the water. To experience life on the archipelago , take a day trip to the tiny island of Fjäderholmarna, a 20-minute boat ride from Stockholm, and spend the day laying in the sun, swimming, and picnicking.

For food, don't miss Schmaltz Bar & Delicatessen or pizza at 800 Grader . And when it comes to a fancy girls' night out, it's hard to beat Vina for wine and starters, followed by Adria , an Italian restaurant that serves up bowls of warm, homemade pasta. Top it all off with a nightcap at Erlands Cocktail Bar .

Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

If you're looking to reset and relax, it's hard to beat a week in the resort town of Bad Ragaz, Switzerland. Just an hour southeast of Zurich, this area is home to a famous natural spring as well as a world-renowned spa and health resort .

Billing itself as the "leading well-being and medical health resort in Europe," the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz boasts extensive thermal baths, including outdoor pools with mountain views, and a "Sauna World" that features a sanarium, a Finnish sauna, and an infrared sauna. For next-level treatments, the on-site Medical Center has a highly trained team of doctors and therapists who use the thermal water for various therapies, including dermatological and beauty treatments.

When you've had enough pampering, the resort's eight restaurants and four bars will keep you entertained, as will the on-site casino and two golf courses. For a day trip , go on a tour of the region's vineyards and wineries or explore quaint Swiss villages by bike.

Barcelona, Spain

There's more to Barcelona than drinking endless cava (sparkling wine) and dancing until 5 a.m., but no one's going to judge you those are the main items on your agenda. Grab a late dinner of tapas and sangria at Sensi Bistro in the historic Gothic Quarter, then dance the night away at Jamboree or Razzmatazz .

After you've had a chance to recover — we recommend coffee at Cafés El Magnífico — spend some time exploring the city. Walk along the outdoor pedestrian thoroughfare, La Rambla, until you run into La Boqueria, a giant outdoor food market. Grab some lunch goodies and post up at the beach, Playa de la Barceloneta. For a taste of culture, map out an Antoni Gaudí-inspired city tour. Stop by what is arguably his greatest piece of architectural work, La Sagrada Familia , before swinging by Park Güell to see numerous Gaudí installations and city views.

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Prague, czech republic.

With its cobblestone streets, castles, and bridges, in Prague, you'll feel like you've stepped into medieval times. Spend the day imagining yourselves as medieval queens at Prague Castle , then head to Old Town Square. Here, in the heart of the city, you'll be surrounded by Gothic churches, colorful baroque-style structures, and a one-of-a-kind astronomical clock that delivers an animated show every hour. End the day with a walk across the Charles Bridge, pausing to listen to street musicians and shopping for trinkets.

After you've gotten your fill of history, shift your focus to the current Czech culture, which almost always includes a stein of beer. Head to the 17th-century Strahov Monastery Brewery and enjoy a beer (or three) in the outdoor courtyard. Soak it up with roasted sausages in a dark beer sauce or try their traditional goulash with Czech dumplings. End your day relaxing in your pick of Prague's world-class hotels .

Monaco City, Monaco

It doesn't get more glam than Monaco, a tiny country perched on the French Riviera. Day trips to the neighboring countries of France and Italy require little more than a short drive, but once you're settled in Monaco , you may not want to leave — there's a reason the rich and famous flock here.

With views out over the Mediterranean Sea, the Fairmont Monte Carlo makes for a solid home base. Enjoy the property's four restaurants and bars, and lounge like queens around the rooftop pool. From April to September, the brand Nikki Beach sets up on the rooftop, bringing with it specialty cocktails and gourmet food by day, and a DJ-spun party by night. After a cocktail or two, try your luck at the on-site Sun Casino.

After you've taken ample time to explore the property, sunbathe at Larvotto Beach and visit the Princess Grace Rose Garden , a garden built in memory of the American film star Grace Kelly who was married to the former prince of Monaco. For some more gambling fun, spend an evening at the Casino de Monte-Carlo , easily one of the most famous casinos in the world.

Biarritz, France

For a low-key beach escape with your best girls, head to this tiny coastal town on southwestern France's Basque coast. Initially a destination for European royalty, today, the seaside town is popular with surfers and beachgoers who come for the slower pace of life and sweeping views of the Bay of Biscay.

Start your day by shopping at Les Sandales d'Eugénie , a family-run business famous for their French-made espadrilles. Then, take a leisurely walk to Rocher de la Vierge, a rock formation topped with a Virgin Mary statue that's only reachable via a narrow iron bridge. From there, follow the seaside path along the Grande Plage (where you'll need to return for a beach day) to the Phare de Biarritz, an iconic white lighthouse to the north. After your walk, feast on tapas and wine at Olatua Biarritz and watch the sun drop.

For a lazy day, pick up fresh cheese, bread, meats, and veggies from Marché de Biarritz and head to the tiny Plage du Port Vieux for swimming and sun.

London, England

London is the perfect place for first-timers to Europe, especially those with a penchant for the royal family. You can ooh and ahh over Buckingham Palace , get a group selfie with the Queen's Guard, and see Big Ben without having to stress about a language barrier.

Hop on a double-decker bus and visit Piccadilly Circus, London's take on Times Square, or take the Tube to Euston Station and test out the Indian buffet at Chutney's on Drummond Street. For lodging, not much can top the luxury and history of The Savoy . It's the hotel where Elizabeth Taylor spent her honeymoon, Sir Elton John flooded his suite, and The Beatles ordered porridge and pea sandwiches while visiting Bob Dylan.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Loving Amsterdam is practically inevitable. The elaborate canal system is lined with quaint, narrow houses, while romantic bridges and bike lanes crisscross the city. Join the Dutch and explore the city on two wheels or stop by Joy Ride Tours and arrange a biking excursion into the countryside.

For a healthy dose of culture, spend an afternoon at the Anne Frank House , then taste your way through the Amsterdam Cheese Museum . The city's rich Museum Quarter houses the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum , where you'll find works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

After a long day, grab a stroopwafel — a crispy waffle cracker with a soft caramel filling — at Van Wonderen and a cocktail at Door 74, a Prohibition era-style bar. Finally, get some rest at the trendy, design-focused INK Hotel Amsterdam in the center of the city, or book a block of rooms on the canal at the bohemian, boutique hotel, Ecomama .

Berlin, Germany

Berlin houses much of Europe's history — from the renowned Holocaust Memorial to the Berlin Wall, there's plenty to do and see. Take in the city's storied history, but make time to enjoy the fun-loving side of Berlin, too. It's Germany, so there's plenty of beer to be had, and quirky spots like Café Cinema — an alley full of art, bikes, and revelers — will win you over in minutes.

For food, try a Mrs. Benedict at Hilde , or go all out with the Sunday brunch buffet at Nola's in Weinbergspark. If your group is in the mood for Italian, swing by I Due Forni for caprese salad, pizza, and beer, or MarienBurgerie for burgers with a creative spin.

In addition to the Berlin Wall tours, check out the city's Alternative Culture and Street Art Tour , where you'll learn about street art, Berlin's underground culture, and its world-famous club scene. Finish the day with drinks and dancing at Clärchens Ballhaus .

Santorini, Greece

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

When you think of Greece, you likely picture-perfect whitewashed houses with blue roofs overlooking turquoise waters. If that's what you've been dreaming of, get the girls together and book a flight to Santorini. You can spend days looking out over the sea, as well as pack in some activities and fun.

Check out the Santorini caldera, a large, picture-perfect volcanic crater, and snap a group photo on top of the Mesa Vouno Mountain where you can see the ancient remains of the city of Thera.

Book your stay at The Tsitouras Collection , a boutique hotel housed in an 18th-century mansion, or indulge in VIP treatment at Grace Hotel Santorini, Auberge Resorts Collection . For the ultimate sunset views, gather the girls and head to the family-owned PK Cocktail Bar , then go dancing at the always-fun Koo Club .

Rome, Italy

A true bucket-list destination, Rome will welcome you and your crew with an endless list of things to see, do, and eat. You won't want to leave without visiting the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, or the Colosseum, but make sure you set aside time for plenty of wining and dining, too.

Grab a morning cappuccino at Barnum Café or pick up baked goods at Antico Forno Roscioli . If you don't make it to the latter for breakfast, you can always swing by for a slice of Roman-style pizza at lunch. The piazza Campo de' Fiori is a bustling outdoor fruit, veggie, and flower market in the morning and afternoon, and it transitions into a nightlife hub after dark (it's lined with bars and restaurants).

At night, sleep steps away from the Trevi Fountain and Villa Medici at the completely renovated, five-star Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese .

Hvar, Croatia

There are thousands of islands off Croatia's coastline, but Hvar is developed enough to be comfortable without compromising on natural beauty. Perched in the Mediterranean Sea, the island has every ingredient needed for a girls' trip: beaches, nightlife, and vineyards.

Spend the day lounging on Dubovica Beach or head inland to see the island's lavender fields. Try gregada , a local fishermen's stew, at Macondo or peruse the wine list at Passarola , where there's often live music. Once you've properly explored Hvar — don't miss a wine tasting at Vina Tomić — book a boat excursion to the Pakleni Islands off the coast of Hvar to experience the island chain's secluded beaches and coves.

Dublin, Ireland

Gather your best beer-drinking buds and head to the birthplace of Guinness. And while the capital of Ireland offers much more than the dark Irish stout, you'll want to carve out time to visit the Guinness Storehouse , where you'll hear the story behind Ireland's famous beer and enjoy a brew at the rooftop bar.

After you've had your fill of beer — if that's even possible — visit Dublin Castle and the imposing St. Patrick's Cathedral , the tallest and largest church in Ireland. For an experience not every tourist gets, book the Dublin Dark Side Tour, an evening walk that guides you through the city's supernatural and terrestrial ghouls. Create your own pub crawl — stops at The Temple Bar , The Long Hall , and The Beer Market are a must — or sign up for the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl or the quirky Dublin Traditional Irish Musical Pub Crawl .

Brussels, Belgium

The city of Brussels is home to beautiful parks — Bois de la Cambre and the Parc du Cinquantenaire among them — but the real reason to make this European city your girls' trip destination is the food. In addition to being the birthplace of Belgian waffles, the Belgians know how to make some killer frites (French fries) and have perfected the moules marinières (mussels).

After a few cocktails at Le Belgica , a popular gay bar with a creative drink menu, you'll naturally want some late-night grub. Enter: Friterie de la Barrière , a popular fry shop that you can count on to be open until 5 a.m. (and sometimes later). After a hangover-killing breakfast at Peck 47, spend the day shopping for luxury brands on Avenue Louise. Just make sure you don't miss the smaller boutiques and cafés hidden down some of the avenue's side streets.

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• Top Places To Visit In Europe With Friends For A Kick-ass Holiday Like Ours

All of us have one place on our bucket list, which we yearn to explore until we finally tick it off, and in our case it was Europe. While everyone loves to wander for the fulfilment of their own desires, I travel because it helps me create new memories with my loved ones. And so, taking the decision of exploring the places to visit in Europe with friends was the best thing my wife and I did!

Since I prefer luxury over adventure any day, and love having a holiday that’s not only hassle-free, but also soul-satisfying, I was looking for someone to plan our Europe trip . While looking up for agents online, I came across TravelTriangle and their packages immediately caught my attention. It was really impressive to see how they helped us get in touch with the best travel agent, and managed our whole holiday so efficiently.

Our Trip To Europe Was Every Foodie’s Dream Come True!

• Trip Type: 10 Days 9 Nights friends trip
• Cost: INR 2,46,942 for my wife and me from Hub HolidayCom
• Inclusions: Airfare, accommodation, city taxes on hotels, breakfast, transfers from and to the airport, sightseeing, GST, transport tax, and travel insurance.
• Exclusions: Lunch, dinner, Visa assistance, and Visa fees

Here’s a brief itinerary of our 10 days trip to Europe with our friends:

• Day 1, 2 & 3 in Paris : Stay at Hotel Villa Royale Montsouris, visit Disneyland, Eiffel tower , Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Church, and spend the evening on a cruise
• Day 4, 5 & 6 in Switzerland : Visit Zurich, Chocolate Factory and Glacier Museum in Lucerne, enjoy a ferry ride, take a cable car ride to Mt. Titlis, visit the Hanging Bridge; further head to Interlaken and Grindelwald, and explore its streets
• Day 7 & 8 in Italy : Explore the streets of Venice, walk on the Rialto Bridge, hop-on hop-off ferry ride for visiting various churches and other attractions; Head to Rome via train, stay at Hotel Palladium
• Day 9 in Vatican City: Leave for Vatican City, take a guided tour of the city, and explore the streets
• Day 10 in Italy: Return to Rome, visit the Colosseum, shopping, and then leave for the airport

Spellbinding Places To Visit In Europe With Friends

During the 10 days in Europe, we explored and witnessed quite a lot, and it felt magical. A small tour of three countries, and their splendid beauty made it an experiential holiday, and here’s why you must visit them too.

1. Paris: Falling In Love

Top 20 Things To Do In Switzerland On Your Europe Holiday In 2022

Paris is rightly called the city of love, and there is no denying that our Europe trip kick-started on a romantic note because of this place. We arrived at the Paris Airport around 6:30 in the evening and reached our hotel by 9. Even though the hotel was located in the heart of the city, there wasn’t much left to do since most of the eateries and stores had closed down. To our luck, we found one Indian restaurant for dinner and called it a day post satiating our hunger pangs.

The next day of our trip was loaded with fun and unique experiences. While I had been to Disneyland Hong Kong in the past, the Disneyland here was way better. A whole day here made every moment a beautiful memory, and seemed absolutely perfect for the kid in us.

The last day in Paris was quite eventful. We ditched the hop-on hop-off bus and took the metro to experience a comfy local feel. The 24 hours metro pass cost us 23 Euros for two people.

DO NOT Leave For Europe Without Packing These 8 Things

From visiting Louvre Museum to the Notre Dame Cathedral, it felt like we had seen the secrets behind Paris’ beauty. But, to our surprise the Eiffel Tower is actually the most shining gem in the crown of this city, and also one of the best places to visit in Europe with friends . While the Mona Lisa painting in the museum left us in awe, the view of the tower at night sweeped us off our feet.

What made the day even better was the cruise ride in the evening. The view of the city from it was gorgeous and all of us were smitten by it. After the ride, we took a long walk till the Lock Bridge, saw a lot of live street performances, and indulged in the local cuisine on our way back to the hotel.

2. Switzerland: Touring Zurich, Lucerne, Mt. Titlis, Interlaken, and Grindelwald

The morning of the fourth day of our trip, we took the Eurorail for Zurich, Switzerland. As soon we reached the city, we took a Swiss pass which granted access to all the public transport, museums and other activities for free.

Post that, we headed towards Lucerne and reached there by 4 in the evening. The exploration started with the Glacier Museum from where we went to the Chocolate Factory, and then took a ferry ride. The lake seemed beautiful and serene. It was more than a one hour ride, and the historical tales of the audio-guide made our experience more enriching.

The next morning, we checked out of the Ibis Styles Luzern City Hotel in Lucerne, kept our luggage in the holding area, and boarded a train to Mt. Titlis. Upon reaching the base of the mountain, we took the 360 degree cable car ride to reach the top. The view of Switzerland from the summit was breathtaking.

Next, we walked up to the Hanging Bridge and spent quite a few memorable moments there, after which we took a train back to Lucerne, picked up our luggage and headed to Interlaken. Fortunately, it was the Swiss National Day and the whole town was celebrating with fireworks. It was undoubtedly one captivating sight.

We spent another day in commuting to Grindelwald, where we took the cable car to reach the summit of a town called First, which is known for adventure activities like parasailing and zip lining. From here, we left for Interlaken again in order to reach Zurich since there was no direct rail connectivity between Grindelwald and Zurich.

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The last day went by in exploring the city of Zurich. Brimming with spectacular architecture, it is amongst the beautiful places to visit in Europe with friends . We also visited the shopping streets and then the Zurich Lake before taking an overnight bus to Venice.

3. Italy: Living like the Venetians and Romans

We reached Venice at 8:30 in the morning, and relaxed for a while after checking into Hotel Garibaldi. Being in Italy called for a pizza and we couldn’t resist ourselves for long. After lunch, we headed to the Venice Island, where the weather was pretty hot. Instead of giving up, all of us decided to still explore the city with the help of Google Maps.

The canals, the bridges, and everything around looked right out of a movie, and it was a treat to our eyes. If you love photography, I can vouch that you wouldn’t be able to keep your camera away for long.

Googling our way to the Rialto Bridge, we came across a lot of shopping stores and eateries. To our surprise, Venice also had budget vegetarian restaurants. Though, the highlight of the day was meeting the richest guy of India – Mr. Mukesh Ambani in the middle of the shopping streets of Venice. Interacting with him was an out of the world experience, and an absolute delight.

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The next day, we got on the 24 hour hop-on hop-off ferry ride, and explored the famous churches and various islands in Venice. After seeing the making of Morano glass, we came back to the station and boarded a train to Rome.

Upon reaching Rome around 11:30 in the night, we checked into Hotel Palladium. The city looked great even at night, just like a picture taken out of a history book. The Colosseum was one of the most charming sights in Rome, and I’m glad we could witness its beauty on a Sunday morning.

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4. Vatican City: A historical day out

On day 9th of our Europe trip, we visited the Vatican City. This place seemed crowded and taking a guided tour to learn about the city seemed like a better option. Our guide took us to different attractions and narrated everything so well, that it felt like we were in a documentary.

15 Free Things To Do In Europe For Backpackers And Budget Travelers

We also wanted to explore a nearby fort, but because of its entry fee we, decided to drop it, and took a hop-on hop-off bus to return back to Rome.The last day was mostly spent shopping, after which we bid farewell to Europe and left for the airport.

Overall, it was one hell of a holiday! We did miss out the Gondola ride and the view from the top of the Eiffel Tower, but the rest of the experiences made up for it. Needless to say, Paris, Switzerland, and Italy are great places to visit in Europe with friends .

High Points Of Our Trip To Europe

• Witnessing the beauty of the Eiffel Tower at night
• Sailing through Venice
• An evening in Rome, and visiting the Colosseum
• The gorgeous views from Mt. Titlis

Tips For Future Travelers

• A water bottle costs nearly around INR 1000 in Europe, prefer carrying an empty bottle to save money. The streets have a proper provision of drinking water.
• Commute via public transport like the hop-on hop-off bus or the metro since it saves a lot of money, and also offers a great experience of exploring the city.
• Most of the hotels have friendly and experienced staff, take their inputs for your trip itinerary since it can make your overall experience a lot better.
• The Notre Dame Cathedral is a beautiful place to visit in Paris. It’s vibrant and is lined with shopping stores and eateries. Make sure you visit there.
• The Eiffel Tower is no ordinary place, and you will surely agree with me once you see it with your own eyes. Just try and schedule your visit in the evening. There is nothing better than the view of the well lit tower.
• The currency accepted at most of the places in Switzerland is Swiss Francs, so avoid carrying too much of Euros. Prefer having a Credit Card with you for all your transactions.
• Pack an extra windcheater, warm cap, and gloves.
• Don’t forget to take a good camera along.

Our Europe trip with TravelTriangle was an extraordinary affair, absolutely hassle-free and super well managed. I’m glad that we booked our trip with them and had the time of our lives!

Reema Arora

A writer at heart with the soul of a traveler is pretty much who she is. Besides, she also loves treating her taste buds to different cuisines, binge-watching almost all sorts of series and movies, and indulging in new experiences every now and then. Also, languages and cultures fascinate her to a great extent, which is why currently she is brushing up her Spanish.

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• Santorini – Where to Stay

The banks of the River Seine in Paris .

Best Places to Go in Europe – My Advice My favorite countries to visit in Europe are Greece and Italy . My favorite cities in Europe are London , Paris , Barcelona , and Florence . The best destinations for a honeymoon in Europe are Santorini and the magical cave hotels in Matera . The best beaches in Europe are in Greece . Europe with Kids : My favorite places in Europe for families are London with kids , Paris with kids , Barcelona with kids , Amsterdam with kids , Rome with kids , and Naxos with kids . My top tip for visiting Europe: Arrive and depart from different cities to save the time, hassle, and expense of retracing your steps to catch your return flight. For example, fly into London, train to Paris, train to Amsterdam, fly home from Amsterdam. The best destinations for first-time visitors are those that have a direct flight from home (or as close to direct as possible) and are close to each within Europe – cutting down on costs and travel time. Best Time to Visit Europe : July and August have great weather but are busy everywhere in Europe so if you have the option (and families usually don’t) then June and September are better as the weather remains great and every beach on the Mediterranean is still wonderful. For outdoor sightseeing April, May, October, and early November are pleasant in most of Europe. If you’re a museum lover then early December, January, February, and early March see wonderfully short lines at the top attractions in London , Paris , Amsterdam , Berlin , Barcelona , Madrid , Florence , Milan , and Rome . The weather can be miserable but these big cities have lots to see indoors. My favorite book on modern Europe is Tony Judt’s fantastic Postwar: A History of Europe Since 1945 . The most magical things to do in Europe are island hopping in the Greek Islands and staying at an Agriturismo in Tuscany .

The 15 Best Places to Visit in Europe

1. Paris, France Paris has it all, which is why it’s as close to a must-see as there is in Europe. Food, history, art, culture, and beauty around every corner. A highlight for me is doing a bike tour around the city. Paris Travel Guide • Best Paris Hotels • Best Paris Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotel in Paris • Best Time to Visit Paris •  Paris with Kids • Best Restaurants in Paris • Best Things to Do in Paris • Where to Stay in Paris 2. Florence, Italy There are so many places to go in Italy, but Florence is so special you really can’t miss it. The art and history are obvious perks but doing food tours and cooking classes are also favorites of mine. And Florence makes a great base for exploring the treasures of Tuscany. Florence Travel Guide • Best Florence Hotels • Best Florence Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotels in Florence • Best Time to Visit Italy • Best Things to Do in Florence • Where to Stay in Florence 3. Santorini, Greece The best holiday destination in Europe (but I might be biased). The caldera views are as incredible as anything you’ll see anywhere. Sunsets, hikes, boat tours, local wines, black volcanic beaches, and the most luxurious hotels along the Mediterranean. Mykonos , Naxos , and Paros are just a few hours away by ferry. Santorini Travel Guide • Best Santorini Hotels • Best Santorini Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotels in Santorini • Best Time to Visit Santorini •  Santorini with Kids •  Santorini with Kids • Best Restaurants in Santorini • Best Things to Do in Santorini • Where to Stay in Santorini 4. London, England Everyone knows London is packed with world-class sights, museums, and historical landmarks. What might be surprising is all the great local markets, shops, neighborhoods, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to get away from the most popular attractions and seek out the less-touristy neighborhoods of greater London. Best London Hotels • Best London Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotels in London • Best Time to Visit London •  London with Kids • Best Things to Do in London • Where to Stay in London 5. Amsterdam, Netherlands One of my absolute favorite cities in Europe. A wonderful city center that’s as pedestrian and bike friendly as you’ll find. Loaded with fun cafes, restaurants, great museums, and leafy parks. Perhaps more than any European city Amsterdam is a place you’ll want to live in after your first day. Best Amsterdam Hotels • Best Amsterdam Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotels in Amsterdam • Best Time to Visit Amsterdam •  Amsterdam with Kids • Where to Stay in Amsterdam 6. Barcelona, Spain My favorite city in Spain. Jammed with great food, lively nightlife, art, architecture, and eye popping sightseeing. A great holiday destination for families too. Best Barcelona Hotels • Best Barcelona Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotels in Barcelona • Best Time to Visit Barcelona •  Barcelona with Kids • Best Restaurants in Barcelona • Best Things to Do in Barcelona • Where to Stay in Barcelona 7. Rome, Italy The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican. Rome is packed with some of Europe’s top attractions. Then throw in the food, shops, cafes, and funky neighborhoods. Anything less than 5 days in Rome and you’ll feel cheated. Rome Travel Guide • Best Rome Hotels • Best Rome Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotels in Rome • Best Time to Visit Rome •  Rome with Kids • Best Things to Do in Rome • Where to Stay in Rome 8. Reykjavik, Iceland Reykjavik is the cool capital of Europe. Great nightlife, cafes, and restaurants. The Blue Lagoon, whale tours, and mesmerizing scenery are all easy day trips. Best Reykjavik Hotels • Best Rekyjavik Family Hotels •  Best Time to Visit Iceland 9. Edinburgh, Scotland An awesome mix of castles, history, stunning scenery, and modern Scottish life, Edinburgh is one of the must visit cities of the U.K. Best Edinburgh Family Hotels • Where to Stay in Edinburgh 10. Prague, Czech Republic As close to an idyllic European city as there is. Prague is a favorite of almost anyone who visits. Loads to see and do here – and the beer is pretty darn good too. Best Prague Hotels • Best Prague Family Hotels • Where to Stay in Prague 11. Galway, Ireland Dublin has become a thriving international city where it can be hard to find the Irish culture you came here to experience. In Galway you really feel like you’re in Ireland. The town itself has a wonderful vibe and there’s tons to see within a 90-minute drive. Galway Family Hotels 12. Nice, France A fantastic base for exploring South France and a wonderful mid-sized town in its own right. Easy train connections to Monaco, Cannes, Lyon, and many great beaches along the Mediterranean coast. Best Nice Family Hotels 13. Istanbul, Turkey People come for the monumental historical sights but leave in awe of the markets, street culture, neighborhoods, and incredible Turkish cuisine. Best Istanbul Hotels • Best Istanbul Family Hotels • Best Cheap Hotels in Istanbul • Best Time to Visit Istanbul • Where to Stay in Istanbul 14. Naxos, Greece The best beaches in Greece and maybe all of Europe. But it’s not just sea, sun, and sand. The Chora (main town) is as charming as any Greek town and the interior of the island is dotted with enchanting villages and stunning hikes. Best Naxos Hotels • Best Naxos Family Hotels • Best Time to Visit Greece • Where to Stay in Naxos 15. Agriturismo Farm Stay in Italy This is one of the funnest, most interesting things to do in Europe. Stay at a working farm in Italy (mostly Tuscany, but Umbria and Sicily are also popular). Great for everyone from families (those are my two boys playing in the pool) to honeymooners. Stays will usually include 2 to 3 meals per day. Some farms have cooking classes, horse riding, or wine-related activities. Agriturismo in Tuscany • Agriturismo in Umbria Europe Itinerary – Where to Travel

The fantastic Borough Market in London is one of my favorite foodie destinations in Europe.

• One Week in Europe : London and Paris – Eurostar train between the two cities. Fly into one and out of the other. • 10 Days in Europe : London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Train between the three. Fly in and out of different cities. • Two Weeks in Europe : London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, and Florence; or London, Paris, Athens, and the Greek islands. Train between London, Paris, and Rome; and between Rome and Florence. Ferry between Athens and the Greek islands. Fly the other routes. • Three Weeks in Europe : London, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Rome, Florence, Athens, and the Greek islands. Train between London, Paris, and Rome; and between Rome and Florence. Ferry between Athens and the Greek islands. Fly the other routes. Best European Destinations by Month

Santorini is the single best vacation destination in Europe. This fantastic Greek island is filled with awesome hotels and stunning cliffside villages , and offers visitors boat tours , wine tours , and an amazing jet ski tour to the volcano .

Best places in Europe to visit in January : London, Paris, Florence (for short museum lines); Sicily, Crete, Southern Spain (for good weather) Best places in Europe to visit in February : London, Paris, Florence (for short museum lines); Sicily, Crete, Southern Spain (for good weather) Best places in Europe to visit in March : Florence, Santorini, Paris, London, Barcelona Best places in Europe to visit in April : Florence, Rome, Santorini, Paris, London, Barcelona, Lisbon, Porto Best places in Europe to visit in May : The Greek Islands, Florence, Rome, Paris, London, Barcelona, Lisbon, Porto Best places in Europe to visit in June : The Greek Islands, Paris, London, Barcelona, Lisbon, Porto, South France, Reykjavik Best places in Europe to visit in July : The Greek Islands, Ibiza, Menorca, Mallorca, Reykjavik (but all are busy) Best places in Europe to visit in August : The Greek Islands, Ibiza, Menorca, Mallorca, Reykjavik (but all are busy) Best places in Europe to visit in September : Santorini, Mykonos, Barcelona, Lisbon, Porto, South France, London Best places in Europe to visit in October : Santorini, Crete, Florence, Barcelona, Sicily, Lisbon, Porto Best places in Europe to visit in November : Santorini, Crete, Florence, Barcelona, Sicily, Lisbon, Porto, Paris Best places in Europe to visit in December : Barcelona, Rome, Paris

About Santorini Dave

Myself and a friend are looking at a two week holiday in May – we were thinking of spending a week in Santorini and then possibly another nearby close island? We would like to stay in a hotel with Caldera view, however mobility with steps is an issue! Do you know of any mid range hotels in Oia or Imerovigli that have few or no steps to access rooms etc. i appreciate that being built into a mountain this is probably a challenging request! Mobility on flat ground is not an issue. Many thanks

Fira has several good hotels with few or no stairs: Aria Suites, Atlantis, and Aressana are a few I recommend. In Imerovigli Kasimatis is another favorite of mine with very few stairs. In Oia try Aspaki by Art Maisons.

Come and visit Bulgaria! The country of yogurt and rose oil. Doesn’t matter what will be the season. Mountains and beaches. Visit the oldest city in Europe – Plovdiv. The oldest country in Europe. Some of the places offered here are not that much good as they present them. Travelling years already and have been visited all the European countries. My opinion for some countries. From 1 to 10: Spain 8, France 6, Netherlands 6, England 6, Italy 7, Turkey 7, Portugal 7, Greece 6, Germany 7.

Wonderful. Thanks for sharing.

Hi Dave, I’m planning a trip to Germany for this coming October but would like to spend a few days (2 to 3 days) in another city or country at the end of the trip before returning to the US. What would your top suggestions be for places to visit if you only have a few days?

Paris would be right at the top of my list. Amsterdam, London, Florence, and Barcelona are all personal favorites too (and many more). I recommend looking at flights and connections to see what works best for your itinerary and use that as a tie-breaker.

What are the best cities to visit in Europe for a first-time solo female traveler?

For first-time visitors to Europe my top recommendations would be Paris, Florence, London, Amsterdam, Rome, and Barcelona. I’d recommend visiting at least one smaller place to get a more local feel of European life. Good suggestions include Galway, Perugia, Utrecht, and Seville – although the list of quality places is very long.

Hi Dave. Do you think it would be too cold to go Greek Island hopping in April/May? And how many nights per island do you think would be required?

For me, April is too cold for swimming. Early May can start to have some warm/hot days when swimming is possible though the water will still be cool. But if by island hopping you mean sightseeing and exploring the islands, then late April and early May are wonderful on the Greek islands. The weather is warm and mostly sunny, crowds are smaller, and costs are cheaper.

We are looking for a beach holiday destination for September. We want good weather and wonderful beaches. Good food and a fun atmosphere (but not big parties) are also important. Where would you suggest?

The Greek islands have the best beaches in Europe. If you want to ferry hop around several islands then I recommend the Cyclades (Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Santorini, and several more). If you only want one island (with great beaches) then go with Naxos, Mykonos, Crete, or Rhodes – or smaller islands like Ios, Sifnos, Antiparos, or Ikaria.

We have a week to spend in Amsterdam as part of our honeymoon. We plan on 3 or 4 days in Amsterdam but would like to do an overnight bike trip outside of Amsterdam – probably two days but could also do a three day trip if needed. We’re in decent shape (can easily walk 5 to 10 miles in a day) but are only on a bike a few times a year. What bike trips would you recommend outside of Amsterdam?

My two favorite bike trips from Amsterdam are:

Amsterdam to Edam – Start by taking the free ferry from the train station across the canal to North Amsterdam. From there it’s a 90 minute ride to Edam (be sure to ride through the small town of Broek in Waterland.) Stay at the Hotel and Restaurant de Fortuna (idyllic location on a small canal, plenty of bike parking) in the center of this charming town. The restaurant at the hotel is fantastic. The next morning catch the ferry from Volendam to Marken and then return to Amsterdam along the sea coast.

Amsterdam to Utrecht – This ride is a bit longer (about 2.5 to 3 hours, one way). If you put Amsterdam to Utrecht into Google Maps you’ll get two different bike routes (mostly on opposite sides of the canal but departing a bit more close to Amsterdam), take one route to Utrecht and the opposite route back as they feel very different (but both wonderful rides). Utrecht is a medium-sized college town with nightlife, local attractions, and lots of restaurants along the main canal. Stay at the Grand Hotel Karel V (center of town, plenty of bike parking) which is fabulous.

Both of these rides are wonderful and highly recommended.

Traveling from London to Paris and then Rome. What is the best, easiest, fastest way to get between the 3 cities – fly, train, or car rental?

From London to Paris take the Eurostar. From Paris to Rome get a cheap flight – probably with Ryanair or Easy Jet.

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16 Perfectly Short Trips to Europe

These short trips to Europe are perfect for those who love to travel but want to hold onto their vacation time.

Each of these destinations can be visited over a few short days. You can also visit them as a series of weekend getaways, leaving you with all your vacation time in tact.

Each destination on this list is a large city with a unique historic center. They also have plenty of local attractions to keep you busy, top rated restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene.

With a little flexibility, there are many European destinations that can be visited without investing a significant amount of time.

So if you’re ambitious, you love to travel, and you want to have some epic and fun short trips to Europe, this post is for you.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

I’ve personally visited each of the cities listed below and think any one of them would be the perfect choice for a short trip to Europe.

Where relevant I’ve linked to itineraries for each destination. Also, when planning a short Europe vacation, be sure to book a hotel in the city center so you’re not wasting time traveling back and forth to your hotel.

I also recommend traveling carry on only if you can. This will save you both time and money, leaving you with more of both so you can travel more. If you need a carry on friendly back you consider one of these European travel backpacks for your next trip.

I also recommend traveling to these destinations in the spring or fall to avoid high season during the summer. Trust me, you’ll be glad you avoided the expensive summer airfare getting to Europe.

If you’re interested in taking short trips to Europe, the United Kingdom is the best place to start. London is one of the closest European cities from the USA.

There are always flights available, and it comes with one of the shortest flight times between the USA and Europe.

London is also a great destination any time of year. Though you are encouraged to avoid the busy summer months if you prefer lower prices and smaller crowds.

There are an unbelievable number of t hings to do in London , making it the perfect city break.

To make the best use of your time I recommend booking a few guided tours around London to save time on transportation and waiting in lines.

From the touristy sites like the London Eye , Buckingham Palace or Tower Bridge, to exploring local neighborhoods like Notting Hill or Shoreditch, there is quite literally something for everyone.

London also comes with an impressive restaurant and bar scene. Meaning you’ll have plenty to do after you’ve finished exploring the city during the day.

If you’re a music fan, consider getting tickets to a local show. There are so many venues in this city, you’re bound to find a great show to see.

London also comes with a great public transportation system. So it’s easy to get from the airport to the city, or just from place to place.

Even with just one day in London , you can see a lot of the city’s best attractions.

2. Reykjavik

If you’re looking for more unique short trips to Europe, consider a place like Reykjavik, Iceland. Reykjavik is beautiful and is the world’s northernmost capital city.

Reykjavik is compact and walkable, making it a perfect weekend trip. You’ll find all the major Reykjavik attractions close to another.

The one exception to this is the famous Blue Lagoon which is near the airport. You can book this as a guided tour to make it easy.

There are plenty of things to do in Reykjavik . Try exploring the city center, Hallgrimskirja Church, and enjoying the city’s many restaurants and bars.

You’ll also find many local boutiques selling unique Icelandic sweaters, textiles, and gifts.

What else is great about the city is that many of Iceland’s most popular destinations can be seen as part of a day trip from Reykjavik .

Some of the most beautiful scenery in Iceland can be seen on guided tours . I recommend tours to the south coast, Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park and Kerid Crater.

If you don’t want to rent a car consider taking a small group tour. They’re more enjoyable than the big bus tours for obvious reasons. Prices for small group tours range from about $50 – $100 depending on which tour you select.

Also, if you’re in Iceland between September and March, be sure to sign up for a Northern Lights tour as well. It’s a total bucket list opportunity, you might as well take it.

Reykjavik is completely underrated in my opinion and one of the most unique weekend trips to Europe.

If you’re a beer fan, or just a fan of Ireland or Irish culture in general, then Dublin is one of the best short trips to Europe for you.

One of the most popular things to do in Dublin is to tour the Guinness Brewery and tasting room . There are also tons of other bars and pubs around the city to enjoy local beers and Irish cuisine and even mingle with other travelers.

Dublin is also a great destination for those who enjoy history and architecture. Ireland is filled with castles that dot the countryside, but there is also the Dublin Castle, right in the old town area.

Dublin is also super walkable and easy to get around. This is a great city to enjoy as a relaxing getaway with a friend or significant other. You can basically just eat and drink your way around the city.

If you have extra time, definitely get out of the city on a day trip from Dublin . There is a lot to see in Ireland that’s not too far from the capital.

If you’re brave, you can also rent a car and take an Ireland road trip . The Irish countryside is honestly incredible.

Paris, France is one of the most popular short trips to Europe taken by travelers from all over the world. Just about everybody wants to visit Paris at least once in their lifetime, and for good reason.

The city has so many museums, historical sites, cafes, boutiques, and lounges. One could easily fill a month long itinerary in this amazing city. There are so many Paris experiences you just don’t want to miss.

But even with a short itinerary, Paris is always a worthwhile destination. Many of the city’s most popular attractions are in the center of Paris. So it’s an easy place to get around and explore without much travel time in between.

With a little hussle, one could easily visit the Eiffel Tower , the Arch de Triomphe, the Louvre , the Notre Dame, and the Sacre Coeur, with as little as 12 hours in Paris . Those with more time can explore a bit deeper and get to know some of the city’s many cafes, restaurants, parks, bars, and more.

Be sure to have your camera with you as well. It’s a beautiful city and you don’t want to miss out on the best photo spots in Paris .

But no matter what’s on your agenda for a trip to Paris, you’re sure to have a great time. If you can afford the splurge, consider selecting a hotel in the city center with a view of the Eiffel Tower.

There are many fancy hotels that offer balconies facing the tower, and while the price tag is high, it’s a beautiful way to wake up each day. Plus you’ll have the added benefit of a hotel right in the heart of the city.

5. Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations in all of Europe. The city boasts an incredible food scene, hundreds of historical, cultural and architectural sites, world famous art, and a lively bar scene.

I recently enjoyed a solo trip to Barcelona and had an incredible time, I just know you will too.

Some of the must see spots for visitors are La Sagrada Familia , Park Guell , Casa Batllo , the Gothic Quarter, and the light show at Montjuic.

Once you’ve finished exploring all the art and architecture, plan to head out on the town to sample some of the city’s trendiest tapas bars.

In the evenings, plan for a night out on the town enjoying Barcelona’s lively restaurant and nightlife scene. The locals eat late and party late in Spain, so plan to have a light dinner between 9:00 p.m. and midnight.

If you decide to go out for drinks and dancing after dinner, be prepared for a long night. The clubs don’t get going until around 1:00 a.m. and remain open until after 3:00 a.m.

If you have extra time, consider hopping on a short flight to nearby Mallorca. There are tons of incredible things to do in Palma de Mallorca that are so worth the short trip.

6. Copenhagen

Copenhagen is one of my own favorite short trips to Europe and I’d recommend a visit to this city to just about everybody. Even more, if you love to travel for food, this is the perfect city for you.

The best time to visit Copenhagen depends on what you’re looking for, but I would avoid the summer if you can.

If you’re planning a visit to Copenhagen, book your hotel near the city center and be prepared to rent a bike to ride around on. This is how the locals get around and it’s a really fun way to explore the city.

The most popular destination in Copenhagen is Nyhavn, or new harbor. This is where you’ll find all the boats and colorful buildings. For photos without other people in them, you’ll need to arrive early, but honestly this is a beautiful stop any time of day.

Other points of interest in Copenhagen are the Little Mermaid Statue, Amalienborg Palace, Christiania, Round Tower, Christansborg Palace and Rosenborg Castle.

You can visit many of these spots with just one day in Copenhagen . Though I encourage you to stay for at least three days. Trust me, you won’t want to leave.

Another place you’ll really want to visit is Tivoli Gardens . This is an amusement park right in the center of town. It’s only open seasonally, so check their website before your visit. Consider planning your trip for October if possible, as Halloween is an especially fun time to visit.

If you’re organizing a trip to Copenhagen, you absolutely must plan to visit some of the city’s famous restaurants. For those not on a tight budget, make a reservation in advance for Noma .

This is one of the top 50 restaurants in the world, it currently sits at number two. It’s pricey, but the experience and the food are incredible.

But for those of us with a more modest budget, not to worry, there are plenty of other great food options in Copenhagen. I made my own DIY Copenhagen food tour during my visit so I wouldn’t miss all the great food here.

Some of my favorite restaurants in Copenhagen are Mother , a fantastic Italian place serving Naples style pizza, Hija de Sanchez , where I had the best al Pastor taco of my life, and The Corner 108, where you can find fantastic pastries and coffee to start your day.

7. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is another extremely popular European destination, especially for those interested in art, architecture and culture.

First time visitors to Amsterdam can visit Museumplein, which includes the Van Gogh and Modern Art Museum, view the street art in the NDSM nieghborhood, and take a private canal tour.

You also don’t want to miss a visit to the Anne Frank House, which you should book in advance .

Once you start getting hungry, be sure to stop by the street markets to sample the Stroopwafels. These are sweet wafer cookies joined by a caramel filling.

If you’re looking for something more filling, head over to Foodhallen, a large food hall with over 20 international food stalls. Get small plates so you can try as many as possible.

In the evenings, don’t forget to check out Amsterdam’s trendy restaurants and bars. The Netherlands are also known for having great cheese and wine, so be sure to give these a try over dinner as well.

After dinner, head out to explore some of Amsterdam’s many rooftop bars.

Rome is one of my favorite cities in the world, and if you’ve never been, you absolutely must visit.

While I would normally encourage anyone visiting Italy to stay as long as physically possible, one can definitely enjoy Rome even on a short trip to Europe.

For a productive visit to Rome, I encourage you to book a hotel in the historic center. This will guarantee you are within walking distance (for the most part) to the city’s most famous attractions.

From the historic center you can easily get to the Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, just to name a few.

While these sites can all be seen in one day, you should consider signing up for a tour if you plan to visit the Colosseum.

The history of the place is fascinating, so a guided tour is worth the added expense . You’ll also get to skip the lines, which will save you a significant amount of time.

Tourst attractions aside, my absolute favorite thing to do in Rome is to just walk around the city and explore on my own. You’ll find old Roman ruins all over the place, and it’s really neat to see them unexpectedly as you’re walking around.

The Trastevere neighborhood is especially beautiful in the early evening.

My other favorite thing about Rome is the food.

Do yourself a favor and try as many restaurants as possible during your short visit. Italy has some of the best food in the world (in my opinion), and you don’t want to miss it.

Be sure to order wine with your meals too, it’s incredibly inexpensive in Italy. It’s also delicious.

If you’ve already been to Rome and would like to see more of Italy, consider visiting some of the smaller towns. I recommend Naples, Siena, or Cinque Terre. You honestly can’t go wrong anywhere in Italy.

Prague, located in the Czech Republic, is another unique option for some fun short trips to Europe. An easy two day Prague itinerary will get you to most of the city’s best attractions.

First time visitors to Prague should start by exploring the city in its Old Town area. This is where you’ll find the beautiful cobblestone streets and historic buildings.

From the Old Town head out on foot to see the Astronomical clock , Dlouha Street, Prague Castle , Krymska Street, the Lennon Wall and Charles Bridge.

When you get hungry, be sure to try some of the local restaurants serving schnitzel, goulash, smoked meat, and garlic soup.

In the evenings, head out on the town to try the Czech Republic’s famous Pilsners. You’ll find pubs all across the city.

10. Brussels

Brussels is the perfect destination for those of you who love food, beer and chocolate .

When visiting Brussels make sure you book your hotel near the city’s historic center. This way you’ll be walking distance to all the best Brussels attractions . Brussels is a very walkable city so you’ll want to be in the action.

Start out your visit to Brussels by exploring Grand Place and all the shops and cafes in the main square. Then head out to explore the rest of the city. Be sure not to miss Manneken Pis, European Union and European Parliament, the House of European History, and the Atomium.

Once you’ve completed all those stops, it’s time for the fun part. Make your way back to the city center and head to Delerium Cafe . Here you’ll be able to sample hundreds of local and international beers. It’s a fun spot to hang out and meet other travelers. They have live music and special events in the evenings.

When you get hungry, make your way back to the city center. One there you can try the country’s famous Belgian waffles , fries, and chocoalate. I recommend trying these items at different places around the city as possible. You know, just to make sure you’ve covered your bases.

Don’t forget to pick up a box of local chocolates to bring home to your friends.

11. Lisbon, Portugal

A weekend getaway to Lisbon, Portugal is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a cheap trip to Europe. Lisbon offers an unbeatable combination of culture and history.

Lisbon offers tons of great local tours to help you get the most out of your short visit.

With its pastel buildings, churches sprinkled in between cobblestone streets and delicious cuisine, you’ll quickly understand why Lisbon is one of the most beloved cities in the world.

You definitely don’t want to skip a day trip to Pena Palace and Sintra .

Enjoy exploring the city day and night, eating in local eateries, tasting unique wines and having amazing conversations with locals.

For a memorable weekend getaway that won’t break your budget, Lisbon makes an excellent short trip to Europe.

12. Azores, Portugal

The Azores is one of the most beautiful places on earth. With its temperate climate, incredible scenery, and unique culture, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to this gorgeous archipelago for a weekend getaway.

Whether you prefer spending your days outdoors or exploring the local culture indoors, there’s something for everyone in the Azores.

The Azores are a great spot for whale watching , with over 20 species found here throughout the year.

From sperm whales to humpbacks to blue whales, visitors have plenty of opportunities to observe whales in their natural habitat. Plus, since whale watching season runs year-round, you’re sure to find an ideal time window for your visit.

The Azores are also home to stunning natural attractions like volcanoes, thermal springs, and lush green meadows filled with wildflowers.

When you’re not busy enjoying nature’s wonders, take some time to explore the unique culture of this remarkable destination. Visit local farmers markets or sample traditional cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants.

13. Edinburgh, Scotland

With its vibrant culture, spectacular architecture, and stunning views, Edinburgh is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Europe.

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Edinburgh no matter your interests.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with a bit of history and plenty of adventure, Edinburgh is for you.

Edinburgh is overflowing with history and culture. As you wander around the cobblestone streets, you can’t help but be taken back in time. Whether it’s exploring centuries-old castles or strolling through cobblestone alleyways, every corner of this city has something fascinating to offer.

The city also has an abundance of museums perfect for those interested in learning about the area’s rich history.

From the National Museum of Scotland to The Real Mary King’s Close, an underground network of tunnels dating back hundreds of years, you’ll find plenty of ways to immerse yourself in all that Edinburgh has to offer.

The city is also known for its great restaurants. Whether it’s traditional Scottish dishes like haggis or more contemporary gastronomic delights like gourmet burgers, there are countless places to dine around the city.

14. Bergen, Norway

Bergen, Norway is one of my favorite recent discoveries. This gorgeous Nordic town is located along the coast and offers incredible views, unique architecture, upscale cuisine, and some very friendly locals.

The city may be small, but there is so much to do in Bergen . The view from the top of Mount Fløyen is simply breathtaking and can be accessed via a funicular railway.

Mount Floyen and the funiciular was one of my favorite Bergen attractions . Definitely don’t skip this.

On clear days you can even spot the famous Seven Mountains that surround the city.

Be sure to take a fjord tour while you’re in town as well. This is one of the best ways to see the area.

No trip to Bergen would be complete without exploring its rich culture. Check out the local museums such as Bryggen Museum and Hanseatic Museum. Both offer interesting insights into Norway’s history and traditions.

Alsop, don’t forget about Troldhaugen, the former home of composer Edvard Grieg. This museum offers guided tours that will transport you back in time with its captivating music rooms and lovely gardens.

If you’re looking for delicious cuisine, then Bergen won’t disappoint. From classic Norwegian dishes like reindeer steak and codfish cakes (baccalao) to international favorites such as pizza and sushi, there’s something for every palate.

There are also plenty of cozy cafes where you can enjoy locally-brewed coffee or hot chocolate while taking in the beauty of your surroundings.

15. Stockholm, Sweden

If you’ve been longing for a weekend getaway to a European city, then Stockholm is the perfect destination. There is so much to do in Stockholm , you’ll be glad you came.

This stylish and vibrant city in the Nordic region offers something for everyone. From breathtaking nature trails to beautiful architecture and cultural experiences, Stockholm has it all.

One of the best ways to explore Stockholm is by foot. You could easily spend an entire day walking around taking in the sights.

The cobblestone streets are full of stunning old buildings and modern shops. Stroll through Gamla Stan (Old Town) and take in the centuries-old history of this area.

The city is known for its impressive museums, so be sure not to miss the best museums in Stockholm during your getaway. The Vasa Museum was my absolute favorite .

Make sure to stop by Stortorget Square, the oldest public square in Stockholm, and admire its picturesque buildings and monuments.

It’s also worth visiting Kungstradgarden park, which features lush gardens and a tranquil lake.

Sweden is known for its beautiful nature trails that offer amazing views of forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, and more.

One of the most popular trails is Skuleskogen National Park located near Stockholm which features scenic hiking trails and breathtaking waterfalls. You can also explore Djurgården Island which has several attractions including museums, galleries, parks, and more.

A visit to Stockholm would be complete without trying some delicious Swedish cuisine. The meatballs with lingonberry jam were my favorite.

16. Vienna, Austria

If you’re looking for an exciting and unique place to explore over the weekend, look no further than Vienna, Austria.

This vibrant city has something for everyone and is sure to provide you with a memorable experience.

Vienna is home to some of the most iconic monuments in Europe, including Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

The architecture alone is enough to make your jaw drop, from baroque churches to gothic cathedrals, there are so many beautiful buildings it’s hard not to be overwhelmed by their sheer beauty.

When it comes to things to do in Vienna , you’ll never run out of options. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll through one of the city’s many parks or an afternoon spent visiting museums and galleries, this city has something for everyone.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Vienna is home to many outdoor activities like canoeing on the Danube River or hiking up one of its nearby mountains.

Let’s also not forget about the city’s famous opera. If you’re looking for a unique and fun night out, book tickets for the opera. You won’d be disappointed.

I hope you’ve enjoyed these 16 Perfectly Short Trips to Europe that won’t drain your vacation time. If you liked this post please consider sharing. Thanks for reading.

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21 Europe girls trip destinations – Best Places to go with friends in Europe

Looking for the best destinations for a Europe girls trip? Maybe you’re wondering what exciting hen do destinations Europe offers, or just want to kick back and have a relaxing holiday with your best mate.

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

From beautiful girls city breaks in Western Europe to outdoor adventures and fun activities, there are so many places to go on a Europe girls trip.

Hopefully, this list will get you and your bestie excited for a girls weekend in Europe and inspire you to book that trip!

Table of Contents

Quick links for your European trip

✈️ Book a flight

To find affordable flight options and get cashback, use WayAway

🎫 Find cheapest bus and train tickets

RailEurope makes it easy to book tickets online

🚗 Rent a car

Rentalcars offers wide range of options and great customer service

Вut before you go, look through the list of recommendations above!

Best places for a girls trip in Europe:

Barcelona, spain.

by Katie from You Me Under the Palm Tree Barcelona is an incredible destination to explore with your best girlfriend! This gothic city has everything essential for a girls’ getaway: rooftop pools and bars, the famous La Rambla market, beautiful shops, and an incredible beach. If you are planning a girls’ holiday, Barcelona is perfect.

With so much to offer, you can do as much or as little as you want. Everything is easy to explore on foot, so you can see the sights quickly and spend your days strolling the streets and soaking up the Spanish sun; sounds like heaven, right?

Our favourite rooftop has to be  Hotel 1898  on La Rambla itself, get a good seat and a mojito, and this is the perfect place to chill with your girlfriend and watch the day go by with insane views over the city. The best vegetarian restaurant would have to be Teresa Carles, for the perfect atmosphere and service! However, the options for good food are limitless. If you also think Barcelona is the ideal girls’ getaway, check out our  full 3-day itinerary.

🎟️ See top Barcelona attractions for a lower price. With an all-inclusive city pass you can save money and control your sightseeing through the app.

PORTO, Portugal

by Stephenie from Bey Of Travel Porto is one of the prettiest cities to visit in Europe. Located in Portugal, Porto brings in the perfect mix of culture and cuisine, which makes it a great holiday destination for an all-girls trip.

In Porto, one must wander through the historic centre whilst taking each other’s Instagrammable shots. Girls who love to learn a city’s history can join a walking tour. If on your own, just let yourself fall in love with the stunning alleys and capture the epic ‘Blue tiles route’. 

Porto is also great for an active girls’ getaway, you and your friends can enjoy a nice hike to the Luis Bridge and soak in amazing views of the city from up there. There are a ton of cafes nearby where you can enjoy a glass of wine! Porto is one of the most affordable cities in Europe, for an all-girls trip, you must book a boat trip in the evening to enjoy scenic views from the Douro River. 

Most of Portugal’s cities are blessed with stunning viewpoints, and Porto won’t disappoint vacationers. Popular views like the Serra do Pilar Viewpoint are accessible all day long.  

For looking for Instagrammable shots, must visit the lovely Church of Saint Ildefonso and the Livraria Lello – that the library where J.K. Rowling got her inspiration for the famous Harry Potter book. One must also visit the Sao Bento station, which is one of the most gorgeous train stations in the whole of Europe!

PARIS, France

by Ophelie from Limitless Secrets

Paris is definitely one of the best places to visit with your best friend! Although it’s called the city of love, Paris is undoubtedly a great place to have a fantastic girls’ trip! In fact, Paris is an iconic city you will love to discover together, and it also offers a ton of fun activities and many girly places! Here are some of the things you can do with your bestie in Paris. First of all, Paris is very photogenic , so you can simply wander in the streets, with a fancy outfit or a beret on your head and take a million photos together! Of course, one of the best places to do that is the Eiffel Tower. Head to the stairs in Trocadero or the Quai below Pont d’Iena to get some great photo spots.

If you want to enjoy traditional Paris, you can go to Montmartre. This neighbourhood perched on top of a hill looks like a village and is very charming. One of the best girly activities in Paris is to have brunch in an instagrammable café. You can try Bon Bouquet Café, one of my favourite brunch places in town, Wild and the Moon if you like vegan food, Angelina for their famous pastries and hot chocolates, or Ladurée for their iconic macarons.

💫 Hidden gems of Montmartre

Discover one of the most romantic enclaves in Paris, with a local guide leading you to the best hidden spots.

You can stay in the 25 Hours Terminus Nord. Located close to Gare du Nord, this 4-Star boutique hotel has the prettiest rooms and decorations and excellent service.

ROME, Italy

by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

The incredible city of Rome, Italy, is definitely one of the best places to visit with your girl best friend. There are a variety of fun and cultural things to do there, not to mention all the delicious food and wine to indulge in together! Spend at least 3 days in Rome with your best friend to be able to relax and enjoy your experience fully.

One thing you absolutely can’t miss in Rome is visiting the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the magnificent fountain with your best friend and make a wish together. Close to the fountain is Via del Corso, the most famous shopping street in Rome. Grab a gelato and take a relaxing stroll there — this is where many local teens hang out with their friends! 

Another cool thing to do with your best girlfriend in Rome is to rent a 2-people tandem bike in Villa Borghese, the biggest park in central Rome. Ride the park together, and be sure to pass by the Pincio Terrace inside the park. From there, you can get one of the city’s best views at sunset! There is also plenty of Vespa or segway tours in the historic centre to take with your friend. 

🏛️ Idea for a fun activity in Rome: discover the highlights of historic city on the segway!

No trip to Rome would be complete without tasting the fantastic cuisine there. Be sure to stop by Cantina & Cucina for some delicious food and wine in the historic centre, and to treat yourselves to the best tiramisù in town at Two Sizes Tiramisù!

PORTOVENERE, Italy

by Terri from Female Solo Trek

Instead of staying in Cinque Terre, my daughter and I chose Portovenere. It is located on Italy’s Ligurian Coast, dates back to Roman times and serves as a gateway to the UNESCO Heritage sites. Portovenere offered ferry services to the five Cinque Terre villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore—as well as Positano. Since I was staying for two weeks, I couldn’t afford a hotel – the 5-star choice is Grand Hotel Portovenere – I chose an Airbnb. It had a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean sea. We could sunbathe. Dinners were served al fresco—homemade pasta with fresh tomato sauce slow simmered. Sweet grapes and Brie for dessert. Oh, and Cinque Terre’s own wine!

You will find so much history in Portovenere: Doria Castle, the black and white-striped Church of St. Peter, the Genoese church of St. Lawrence and centuries-old homes. We walked in the same steps as Lord Byron, who swam across the Bay of Portovenere to visit his poet friend Shelley. (Posing at the Grotto of Byron—nicknamed the Bay of Poets—is an Instagram moment.) But our favourite part of Portovenere was visiting the shops tightly stacked together in a medieval alley. There are so many wonderful cafes! From Rome airport, reach Portovenere by a long train ride to La Spezia, followed by a local bus. The city is quite walkable.

THE COTSWOLDS, UK

by Fiona from Travelling Thirties

Picture sitting in a quaint English pub peering out onto an old town square lined with gorgeous stone buildings. The Cotswolds is one of the most (if not the most) picturesque areas in the United Kingdom and perhaps Europe.

The Cotswolds are the perfect place to go for a girls’ weekend getaway. From driving down old English lanes, snapping pictures in front of perfect stone houses, indulging in a clotted cream tea to visiting the spa in Bath, there are more than enough things to keep you and the girls busy for a few days, or maybe even weeks.

The Cotswolds span over 2038km and several counties such as Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. Due to this, it is best if you hire a car to make the most of your trip.

There are also so many villages to visit that you might want to do some research to find the  best villages to visit in the Cotswolds . However, you don’t want to miss Arlington Row in Bibury; this has been named the prettiest street in England, Bourton on the Water has some beautiful cafés and restaurants, and Stow on the Wold is a personal favourite. During your stay, you could also check out the Broadway Tower, Blenheim Palace and The Roman Baths.

by Evelina from Evbeing Voted as the best city in the world for the sixth year, London offers a wide range of cool and unique things to do . A bustling metropolis, London is one of the best places to visit with your best friend. All you have to do is experience a great list of landmarks London offers. Things like shopping together in Oxford Street and treating your friend and fish and chips in Camden Market feature on the bucket list. Whether you enjoy breathtaking views at the Shard, drop by Sky Pod Bar to drink cocktails with a killer view, or watch the Changing of the Guard in Buckingham Palace, London will impress you with its top attractions. Joining Enigma Escape room for two, working together and solving the puzzle at the price of £70 is a funny activity to do with your friend.

Be sure not to miss one of London’s ultimate tourist attractions, the London Eye. A thoughtful way to save money while travelling with your buddy is to book your activities with a 2FOR1 offer featured by Daysoutguide. At Wombat’s The City, a budget luxury hostel , you can choose to spend the night in a girls’ dorm or a twin room.

HEVER CASTLE, UK

Want to stay overnight in a castle with your best friend? How about a castle that was also the childhood home of Anne Boleyn? Step back in time and become a fabulous queen consort for the weekend at Hever Castle (only one hour from London).

During the day, walk around the castle grounds, which include beautiful flower beds and a stunning lake, before taking a tour of the castle itself. The castle’s history, best known for the times Henry VIII came here to meet with the Boleyns, will truly capture your imagination – and there’s really no better way to learn Tudor History than to visit the places where it happened.

On this trip, I also learned why Anne of Cleves was a badass divorcee who did well from her marriage to Henry, despite him generally being considered a notorious husband. She actually ended up getting Hever Castle and living her remaining life here, though this is not as publicised.

My bestie and I treated ourselves to her birthday and stayed in the wing, which now has sumptuous hotel rooms. Here we drank pink prosecco before heading out to the Henry VIII pub for a warming country meal.

This was the fanciest weekend of my life, and to this day, my best friend and I look back exceptionally fondly on ‘that time we stayed in a castle.’ (More recently, we also took a Tudor-inspired trip to Ludlow ! Another fun girls trip idea.)

Do you also dream of staying in a castle? Yes, you really can at Hever Castle. Find out more here.

MANCHESTER, UK

by Rachel from Average Lives

Manchester is a great destination to go to with your best girlfriend.  The city is vibrant and fun, and there are so many exciting things to do. 

First, you should check out the street art and brunch scene in the hipster Northern Quarter. Who doesn’t love a tasty brunch with their best friend? Try Evelyn’s for an Instagram-worthy and relaxed interior.

Depending on your interests (or if it’s raining), you could check out one of Manchester’s many museums and galleries. Alternatively, you can shop at the iconic Arndale or Trafford Centre or go for a drink at Duke’s by the canal in Castlefield if it’s sunny.

You have so many options for food: head to Noi Quattro for fantastic pizza and Mackie Mayor for independent food stalls in an old meat market. Or, if you’re looking to go all out, head to 20 Stories for an experience you won’t forget.  It’s a beautiful bar/ restaurant with impressive views over the city. Then if you decide to continue the night, head to the quirky bars in the Northern Quarter or party on Canal Street with the locals.

Ways to explore Manchester

• ⛴️ Scenic cruise around city center
• 🚶 The city’s secret spots discovery with a local guide
• 🌭 Food tasting tour in Ancoats and the Northern Quarter
• 🗺️ Trip to picturesque North Wales and Chester from Manchester

A girl’s trip wouldn’t be complete without a fun place to stay. Consider staying at King Street Townhouse because they have the most incredible infinity pool for hotel guests. They have a spa too.

A trip to Manchester is unforgettable!

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands

by Jenn from The Solivagant Soul

Amsterdam is one of the most cultural and eclectic cities in Europe.  This beautiful town, has a lot to offer beyond the red-light district and the typical coffee houses . One of the nicest areas in the city, mostly unknown to tourists and great to spend a day with your bestie, is Zuid. There, you can find some of the largest parks in the city, although one of the best is Amsterdamse Bos, covering a significant section of Zuid. This fantastic place is excellent for spending a morning walking the trails or having a picnic.

After discovering the park, another great thing to share with your bestie in Amsterdam is an afternoon enjoying the massages and Spa facilities at the Hotel-Wellness Zuiver, also located next to one of the entrances of Amsterdamse Bos. This hotel has high-rated facilities, including a dry and wet sauna, a pool, and massage rooms. It is a great spot to spend a relaxing afternoon with your best friend, although it may not be suitable for everyone: swimsuits are only allowed twice a week!

FLEMISH BRABANT, Belgium

by Bhushavali from Travel Bhushavali

Brussels is a uber cosmopolitan city and is the beer capital of the world, and it is definitely one of the best places to chill with your best buddy! While there are many activities to spend all your time in Brussels, the most beautiful places are just on the outskirts of Brussels in the province of Flemish Brabant.

The best thing to do in Flemish Brabant with your best buddy would be to hire a bicycle and go on the wine cycling route, explore the vineyards, and taste some authentic  Belgian wines ! We visited Linden, which has not only a vineyard but also a castle and a nice restaurant. While cycling on this route, you’ll cross several farmlands and spot unique views of the Brussels skyline, some picturesque castles, Belgian horses and many more.

If it is spring, stop at Groot Bijgaarden and enjoy the stunning tulip gardens. Last but not least, if you all are a super adventurous gang, don’t miss skydiving in this region!

by Charu from Travel With CG Prague is one of the most famous yet inexpensive cities to visit in Europe. With cobblestone streets, orange-topped roofs, expansive parks and incredible architecture, it might very well be one of the most charming cities on the continent. Being a destination that is ideal for partygoers, history buffs, Instagrammers and foodies alike, Prague, without a doubt, is a perfect place to explore with your best friend.

Home to an ample number of landmarks to view that are reasonably close, Prague can be easily seen by foot or public transport. From free walking tours to stunning castles and otherworldly bridges to admire, there is quite a bit to discover when travelling to the charismatic Czech capital.

Having visited the city with my best friend a few years ago, I personally loved climbing the watch-out tower at the well-known Charles bridge and watching the sun go down from there. Taking a private vintage car tour to get the feel of the city and discover beautiful neighbourhoods along the way is another great thing to do whilst  visiting Prague .

Lastly, if you and your best friend have a sweet tooth, you might even want to grab some Trdelnik. Available in nearly every touristic pathway of the city, it is a chimney cake that is made from grilled rolled dough. Maitea, a vegan and vegetarian restaurant in the Old Town of Prague, is also a must-try.

🌙 If you are into some non-typical touristic routes, this one is definitely a must-try! Wander around old town and listen to the mysteries, legends and tales from darker sides of Prague’s history.

BUDAPEST, Hungary

By Or from My Path in the World 

As cliche as it may sound, Budapest really is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and it is a fantastic girls’ trip destination. It has everything you’re looking for in a city break, like impressive landmarks, museums, restaurants, parks, and much more, but there are a couple of things in particular that you and your BFF will love.

If you love spending hours taking photos of insta-worthy spots, you’ll be amazed by fairytale-like landmarks such as the Fisherman’s Bastion and Vajdahunyad Castle. However, other monuments in Budapest, like the Parliament and Buda Castle, are also impressive.

We girls also love beautiful (and delicious) food, and luckily, you’ll find dozens of incredible  breakfast and brunch spots in Budapest , like À la Maison Grand and Vintage Garden. If you enjoy museums but are looking for something unique, you must also visit the Museum of Sweets and Selfies.

As for nightlife, Budapest’s ruin bars provide a fantastic experience. Primarily found within the historic Jewish Quarter, these old buildings turned into quirky drinking joints and are a must-see when in Budapest. Visit Szimpla Kert, the city’s most iconic ruin bar, or head to Mazel Tov for something a bit fancier.

Other fun things to do in Budapest with your friend include going shopping, taking a free street art walking tour, strolling through Margaret Island, visiting a thermal bath, and so on.

HVAR ISLAND, Croatia

by Martina from PlacesOfJuma

Hvar Island is located in Croatia, and it’s actually a really cool place to go for a trip with your best friend! Because of its immense beauty, the many lovely beaches and its many party options, it is often named the St. Tropez of Croatia. The best place to stay for having an unforgettable time with your best girl is the historic old town of Hvar, because there are the most amazing hotels like the Adriana Spa Hotel in a great location right on the harbour, with excellent breakfast and charming rooms. There are so many cool  things to do in Hvar ! There are some beautiful beaches to explore so that you can spend wonderful days by the sea. Or you can visit one of the many fabulous beach clubs near the old town to have drinks, fun and relax. In the evening you should see the historic centre to enjoy fantastic nightlife with top restaurants and plenty of cool bars and clubs for dancing.

If you and your friend love wine, don`t miss a wine tasting in one of the many wineries on the island. Hvar is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Croatia and the perfect place to spend an unforgettable vacation.

OHRID, North Macedonia

The lakeside city of Ohrid is one of my favourite places in Europe and proved to be the perfect destination to visit with my wonderful friend Becca after I’d been abroad for eighteen months.

Lake Ohrid itself is huge and gives ample opportunities for boat trips to nearby monasteries and hiking around the water’s edge. In Summer, you can even head to one of the city beaches and sip a cocktail in one of the boardwalk cafes before swimming in the lake for a refreshing dip. If you want even more nature, go hiking in Galicica National Park, which has impressive views back over the lake and beyond.

You can stay in the old town if you want to make the most of the many historical sights here. These include the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, built in 200BC, Plaosnik, and the 10th-century Samuel Fortress, which has panoramic views over the city. However, Ohrid’s best gem must be the Church of Sveti Jovan Kaneo – the perfect place to watch a sunset with your best friend before heading to dinner.

Best of all, Ohrid is the perfect destination for travelling on a budget. My friend and I shared an Airbnb for just a few euros a night, dinners were even cheaper… and our most expensive activity here cost 80 pence! If you’re really on a budget, you can also use a hostel or Airbnb kitchen to save money on meals. Just don’t ask Becca how we managed to dissolve our budget pasta dinners. Not quite a luxury, but otherwise a lot of fun!

NAXOS, Greece

by Sara from Sara Far Away

Naxos, the biggest island of the Cyclades, is one of Greece’s hidden gems. Often overlooked due to its famous neighbours, Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros, Naxos has managed to keep its authentic Greek charm.  

The island is the perfect destination for you and your best friend to experience your own “Mamma Mia-inspired” island getaway. Think of crystal clear, turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and rolling hills dotted with quaint Greek villages.  

Naxos capital, Hora or Naxos Town, is a picture-perfect Greek town. You and your best friend can spend hours wandering through the maze of narrow cobblestone lanes, sample Greek delicacies and browse the many shops for a perfect souvenir. 

The best thing to do in Naxos is to go where your feet (or your wheels) take you. There is so much to see on the island, so many amazing photo spots to stop at, Greek villages to wander through, and secluded beaches to discover. I would definitely recommend renting a car and going on a road trip along the coast and into the backcountry. 

Once you’ve done enough exploring for the day, head to Τo Kati Allo in Naxos Town. The family-run restaurant serves traditional, hearty Greek specialities like Moussaka, Souvlaki, and my personal favourite: crispy feta in filo pastry with honey and sesame. 

TRANSYLVANIA, Romania

Romania is one of my best girls’ trips and my favourite European country. From learning all about the real history behind Dracula (and visiting his birthplace!) to hopping between the trendy (and vegan-friendly) eateries in Brasov , this trip exceeded my expectations on so many levels.

I loved Sighișoara, one of the most beautiful towns in Transylvania, with its endless colourful buildings and fascinating architecture. In Brasov, walking around the old town captured my imagination and made me keen to read about the region’s history. From here, day trips to Bran Castle (dubbed ‘Dracula’s castle by the tourism industry), Râșnov Citadel and Peles Castle are definitely worthwhile exertions.

We finished our trip in Sibiu, where we saw the famous ‘houses with eyes’ and ended our trip at the ASTRA Traditional Folk Civilisation Museum.

My other best friend loved the look of my Transylvania itinerary so much that she later made the same trip with her sister! So it’s safe to say this is a girls’ trip for your bucket list.

WARSAW, Poland

by Katie from The Travel Strategy Warsaw, Poland, is still somewhat of a hidden gem, so I find it an ideal place to visit. During WW2, many historical events took place in the city. Today there are many museums dedicated to all that happened; therefore, it’s fascinating to museum hop to learn about it all. Some museums include the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews. Warsaw is a great place to visit with your best friend because besides the array of museums, shopping is excellent and there’s the fun nightlife! Go shopping in Old Town with your best friend to find beautiful amber jewellery for which the country is known, all while enjoying the old, cobbled, stoned streets. You can experience the city at an extremely low price because of the cheap eats and drinks. Make sure to check out a shot bar while you’re there!  Shot bars offer shots for the equivalent of $1, with various unique mixtures to choose from. You’ll find nothing like it anywhere else, and it’ll be a great experience to have with a friend.

With that said, travel to Warsaw, try all the food, take in all the history, see all the sights, and then spread the word about how great it is! 

Warsaw exceptional tours and activities

• 🕍 Guided walking tour of Warsaw Old Town
• 🍻 Pub crawl with unlimited drinks and games
• 🎹 Classical concert at the Fryderyk Concert Hall

by Raluca from TravelWithASpin If the cold doesn’t bother you, Iceland is the best destination. There are few places in the world where you’ll find such a mix of scenery, dramatic landscapes, tiny but sophisticated spas and adventure opportunities. Besides, Iceland has an incredibly low crime rate and feels extremely safe.

Galentine can start as soon as you get off the plane with a stop at the Blue Lagoon. Relaxing in its milky blue water will make any girl happy. Remember to use a lot of hair-conditioner and free mud masks.

The next stop is Reykjavik. Iceland’s capital features colourful houses, interesting graffiti and ample nightlife. While you could easily spend an entire day shopping on Laugavegur street, you might want to check out the Phallological Museum. Yeah, you read it right. A museum dedicated to cocks really exists, and it’s in Reykjavik. 

The best place to stay is downtown Reykjavik. Apotek Hotel is a boutique hotel close to the main street with perfectly-sized cute rooms. There are plenty of top-notch restaurants. What about sharing an Icelandic tapas menu at Tapas Barinn? Reykjavik also features many great cafes where you warm up and have a long girly chat about the beautiful Icelandic guys. 

Two tours are mandatory when in Iceland. The Golden Circle Tour includes the Geysir, Gulfoss waterfall, Kerid Volcanic Crater and Thingvellir National Park. The Southern Iceland Coast tour encompasses spectacular waterfalls, glaciers and a Black Sand Beach. One can also pet those cute Icelandic horses on the way. 

The only drawback would be the short days, but Iceland in winter is still outstanding. Besides, although the northern lights are never guaranteed to appear, there’s a high chance of seeing them in February. 

BERGEN, Norway

If a quick search of ‘Bergen’ on Google Images doesn’t entice you to book a flight, then I will undoubtedly struggle. If you spend 2 days in Bergen, you can expect to see colourful wooden houses which begin at the shore and rise up throughout the surrounding hills, and nearby fjords beckon.

The best way to see Bergen is on foot. How else will you discover the winding passages lined with buildings of all colours and find hidden shops up narrow wooden staircases? The architecture will stun you, particularly if you’ve never visited Northern Europe.

There is plenty to do in the vicinity of Bergen. Be sure to check the opening times of museums before you go! Museums in Bergen closed earlier than we expected. We enjoyed the Bryggens Museum but could not visit others on our list. You can find a list of Bergen museums, attractions and tours  here .

Get a tram and catch a stunning view from Mount Fløyen:  You can choose to hike or bike it, but me? Ew, using my own muscles, gross! The Fløibanen funicular is minutes from the city’s centre, and it’s weirdly satisfying to watch Bergen shrink below you whilst you steadily ascent up the hill. As for the incredible views? During my trip, it was super misty, so I whipped out my super-power-positivity and ran around shouting ‘We’re in a clouuuuuddd’ to make sure my best friend wasn’t disheartened. Guys. We were in a cloud. And it was awesome.

D rink cocktails:   My bestie and I LOVED ‘ No Stress !’ We cosied up by an open fire, and I drank the best whisky-infused cocktail I’ve ever had. In fact, we loved it so much that my BBF/champion of alcoholic beverages walked 15 mins to the youth hostel and back to get more cash – what’s more romantic than your best friend heroically returning with whisky monies?

Vegetarian? Check out  Pygmalion! We ate there both nights as it has both vegetarian and meat options. Also, use the HappyCow app to look up where has vegan options in advance.

For those feeling more adventurous:   nearby fjords and mountains are easy to get to for a day trip (or as a stunning way to get between Bergen and Oslo). Check out  https://www.norwaynutshell.com/  if you fancy a winding train ride on Earth’s most beautiful railway, The Flam Railway, and a boat ride between the immense mountains spotting tiny villages nestled between the slopes.

OSLO, Norway

Oslo would be a great trip with your best friend on its own, but even better if you combine it with Bergen, above. If museums, art galleries or nightlife are your things, Oslo is the way to go. Thankfully, an easily readable bus map can help you discover more of Norway’s capital – there’s much more to it than meets the eye!

You’re spoiled for choosing museums in Oslo, but I’d recommend stepping back in time at the  Norwegian Folk Museum .  Outside of the modernised Oslo centre, here is a seemingly authentic experience of Norway; you stumble upon buildings from different periods of history as you walk the grounds and marvel at their designs as you come face to face with other ways of life.

Next, step back even further and set sail at the  Viking Ship Museum .  I’ve always been fascinated by Vikings, so unless I could have literally dressed up in costume and have had a real-life Viking wipe blood on my face and sacrifice me to Odin, I was always going to be disenchanted by a Real Life museum – this is literally just a building filled with old boats right?  But honestly, you’d have to be seriously cynical to remain untouched when visiting their final destination.

Finally, if you’re travelling with anyone who is easily bored, the  Fram Polar Ship Museum   surely cannot disappoint. Not only is the journey that the Norwegians took on their Polar Exhibition genuinely compelling, but you can explore the ship itself, interact with history and enjoy the ‘Northern Lights’, which are projected onto the museum’s roof every twenty minutes—an unexpected favourite.

Art Galleries:  You know that famous Scream painting? You can go and look at that renowned Scream painting at the  National Gallery . We were informed that all art is Really Important by an equally Important tourist after she overheard us quietly contemplating how the people in neighbouring paintings might interact with one another.  

Finally, we loved  Vigelandsparken .  This is the world’s largest sculpture park by a single artist, and honestly? Gustav Vigeland’s work really moved me. The emotions in the sculptures, human bodies startlingly realistic in their frozen movement, revealed painfully relatable truths.

Top tip: Make Bookings on WayAway to GET CASHBACK on your European adventure!

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Interested? You can get 10% off a WayAway Plus Membership with my promo code: HAG10

Looking for more girls trip destinations?

THE BEST GIRLS TRIP DESTINATIONS IN THE WORLD

THE BEST GIRLS TRIP DESTINATIONS IN AUSTRALIA

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Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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Hi, wonderful post! I’ve been to maybe 75% of the places. Basically you can go almost anywhere with your friends and it’s nice to see such a diverse choice of places! If I could go now, the Greek Islands would be my favourite destination.

There are a lot of great destination in your article. I’ve in mostly of the places that you mention and I definitively reccomand to go.

I love this round-up! So many inspiring adventures to be had when we can travel freely with our girlfriends again 🙂

What a great list – thanks for putting it together. It has given me some great ideas!

There are lots of great ideas here! I have been to a few of these with my friends before and thoroughly enjoyed myself.

I’m always on the hunt for great inspiration for girl’s weekends in Europe, and I love this list you pulled together. Some I wouldn’t have thought of as well! I love the idea of escaping to Hvar or Naxons though, a quiet weekend with friends.

I love all of these European destinations as Galentine’s getaways. I would also add the Greek Islands as a nice girls’ trip. I did it with my cousins and our friends back in 2016 and we had the time of our lives. 🙂

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Discover the Best European Region for Slow Travel

Hero Image Credit: Franz Gerdl / Carinthian Tourist Office, Jošt Gantar / Slovenian Tourist Board, Aleksandar Gospić / CNTB

Modern life can feel overwhelmingly chaotic. We are over-scheduled, over-stimulated, and often under-vacationed. There are few mechanisms for slowing down in our fast-moving digital world, and the appetite for a change of pace is becoming more and more appealing. It makes sense, then, that a new movement has taken hold in recent years, inviting travelers to move about the world differently than they do at home: slow travel.

Far more than a lay-around-and-do-nothing beach vacation, slow travel is about moving with intention; it’s about making the most of the precious time you get to spend seeing the world by being entirely present during your exploration. It’s about noticing the vibrant shade of green carpeting the forest floor and savoring the complex flavors of a just-harvested wine grape. No strict itineraries, no major rush.

While you can practice slow travel anywhere, an emerging region in Central Europe provides the consummate backdrop for such a trip: Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia, or the Alps to Adriatic region. From boundless natural wonders and shifting landscapes to a thoughtful food and wine culture that enables deeper connection to the land, this deliciously underexplored region begs to be savored slowly. The region beckons travelers with friendly, welcoming locals, along with cities and towns that are easy to navigate. Together it makes for a region that is safe to explore for all types of travelers, including those traveling solo. In fact, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia are consistently ranked among the top destinations for solo female travelers due to their modern and lively atmosphere, welcoming communities, and commitment to safety. Whether you're wandering through Austria's scenic trails, enjoying a peaceful day by Slovenian lakes, or exploring Croatia's historic towns, you can do so with confidence, knowing that these countries prioritize the well-being of all visitors.

While there is plenty to do in the region, travelers can pick and choose which activities and regions resonate most and go from there, taking time to savor both the planned stops and the serendipitous surprises discovered along the way.

Easily Accessible, Year-Round Appeal One of the best parts about the Alps to Adriatic region is its seasonally agnostic appeal. With every turn of the calendar’s page, a new energy emerges, always in sync with the natural rhythms of the land. A slew of fresh produce, landscapes tinted with new colors, and a shifting array of activities mark the turn of a season, from sailing in the Adriatic sun to skiing over powder-covered Alpine mountains.

It would take about 12 days to properly explore the region, though that timestamp could easily be extended or compressed depending on pace and appetite. Getting around is intuitive and can be done via a combination of flights, drives, and train travel.

Mountains and Seascapes: The Expansive Outdoors Different types of travelers feel drawn to different types of landscapes and scenarios, whether it be to feel small in front of a towering, snow-capped mountain range or letting yourself be swept away by the glory of a rushing river. The beauty of the Alps to Adriatic region is the vast diversity found within its landscapes. Here, you need not choose between forest and sea, mountain and river.

Take Carinthia, Austria’s southernmost province, as an example. Speckled with 200 sparkling Alpine lakes and surrounded by soaring mountain peaks and gorged valleys, the rugged landscape is suited for both the adventurous spirit and the nature enthusiast alike. The Carinthian Lake Loop Trail is ideal for leisure cyclists, winding around 20 of the region's most picturesque lakes with abundant sunshine and beautiful views along the way. There are also hikes to satiate every appetite, from the network of Slow Trails winding along wide, scenic lakeshores to the ambitious Alpe Adria Trail. Traversing the southern side of the Alps, the trail winds through charming villages, past mountain ranges and glistening lakes, leading all the way to Slovenia.

On the other side, Slovenia’s Juliana Trail can be explored on foot or on bike, through blooming meadows and green forests. An abundance of crystal clear waterways elegantly flows through the landscape, Soča River amongst the most celebrated. Soča cascades across waterfalls, carved-out canyons, and pools, making it something of a natural waterpark. Wildwater kayaking and rafting satisfy adventurers, while Soča trout fishing slows things down in the best way possible.

When it comes to waterways, Croatia reigns supreme in its diversity, boasting rushing rivers and an ambient sea dotted with more than 1,200 spectacular islands. The UNESCO-designated Plitvice Lakes National Park looks like something straight out of a postcard, with surging waterfalls and crystal clear lakes surrounded by forests and meadows. For an authentic, unspoiled Mediterranean experience, sail through the serene seas of the Kvarner and Zadar archipelagos, passing dramatic cliffs and hidden crystalline bays along the way. Through this journey, ancient Roman ruins tell the story of centuries past, while the scattered islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Farm to Fork: The Culinary Landscape In the Alps to Adriatic region, there is no such thing as fast food. Instead, culinary traditions are an homage to the bountiful land from which they come. Local producers are at the centerfold, and visitors have the rare opportunity to reconnect with those farmers, producers, and chefs who operate with the utmost integrity for the sake of quality and care. Such interactions offer a vital reminder of where our food actually comes from.

While culinary trends come and go, Croatia’s lively markets have been championing organic, locally grown produce for centuries. Experiencing a Croatian market is the best way to introduce yourself to the flavors of the country, from Dolac Market in Zagreb to the City Market in Rijeka. The culinary journey only gets more nuanced as you discover each region’s specialties. Sip the world-famous maraschino liqueur from Zadar, and feast on traditional dishes like black cuttlefish risotto or fresh langoustines from Kvarner, paired with local žlahtina white wine. For a sweet treat, drizzle fresh honey from Gorski Kotar onto a delicious Rab cake, a festive, fragrant almond pastry from the island of Rab. If counting Michelin stars is on your travel itinerary, Croatia is certainly worth a trip.

Austria’s Carinthia is no stranger to hyper-local sourcing. A pioneer of the slow-food movement, the region shines a spotlight on 16 designated slow-food villages that prioritize using ingredients from regional producers, working together to promote agricultural sustainability and a circular local economy. For visitors, this dedication manifests in a slew of charming culinary experiences that educate and delight—sampling homemade ice cream from a dairy farm, watching beekeepers harvest their honey, and producing cheese with local dairy, among others. Though there are plenty of outstanding restaurants to choose from, the real magic is in the farm shops, inns, Alpine huts, and other quaint establishments that tell the story of this enchanting country and its producers.

Slovenia may be a newly emerging culinary destination, but its deep-rooted food and winemaking traditions have always yielded quality products. With 24 distinct gastronomic areas and three different winegrowing regions, the country’s natural bounty fuels its culinary community, from innovative young chefs to traditional inn owners to talented winemakers. Traditional dishes like žlikrofi, or tiny dumplings, and potica, a sweet holiday pastry, reflect the local terroir and the culinary traditions that stem from it. Whether you visit a traditional inn or a Michelin-starred restaurant, every Slovenian meal is served with fresh mineral water. In fact, the right to clean drinking water is so crucial to Slovenia’s DNA that it is part of the country’s constitution.

Unexpected Delights: Sites, Cities, and Culture Slow travel isn’t only about becoming connected with the natural landscape; it is also about connecting with the local culture by way of history and art. The Alps-to-Adratic region delivers on the European promise of beautiful castles, intriguing museums, and charming small towns that culminate in rich local lore. In Slovenia, the old and new seamlessly coalesce, from the fairytale-like Otočec Castle perched on an island at the center of Krka River to the Cukrarna Gallery showcasing contemporary works in a former sugar refinery in Ljubljana.

A land with one of the longest lists of protected cultural heritage sites in Europe, Croatia has its fair share of captivating cultural stops. Not far from the country’s capital, Slunj is a rural gem celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and landscape preservation. Recognized on the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s 2023 list of the best tourist villages in the world, Slunj offers visitors a glimpse into traditional local life amidst stunning natural surroundings. The area is known for its beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and historical mills, all carefully preserved to maintain the village's authentic charm and ecological balance. In Zagorje, visitors will find a pristinely green region brimming with regional culinary delights, artistic charm, and centuries-old traditions that are lovingly upheld by the local community, offering a deep connection to Croatia's cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Austria’s Carinthia is not only known as the land of lakes, but as the land of castles—there are more than 400 spread throughout the region. A prime example is Hochosterwitz Castle. Built around 860 AD, the medieval masterpiece is perched high on a formation of dolomite rock, offering panoramic views and a peek into Carinthia’s history.

For an unforgettable European voyage bookmarked by natural beauty, fresh food, and compelling culture, the Alps to Adriatic region awaits. To learn more and begin planning your trip, visit Austria , Croatia , and Slovenia’s websites.

Yoga Teacher Training in Europe: The Best Destinations

Ready to take your sun salutations to the next level by becoming a qualified yoga instructor? These impressive locales are guaranteed to inspire and invigorate for a truly transformative journey.

(Photo: BookYogaRetreats.com)

Europe, with its rich diversity of cultures and landscapes, is home to an impressive range of inspiring yoga retreats offering teacher training programs, from 100-hour courses to intensive 300-hour training retreats. With so much on offer, the question isn’t so much whether you’ll be able to find the perfect retreat, but which to choose. To help you whittle down your options, we’ve rounded up five of the best destinations for yoga teacher training in Europe. Each region offers unique experiences for aspiring yogis—from seaside meditations to mountaintop practices—all designed to nurture both body and soul. To compile this list, we’ve taken into consideration landscapes, types of lodging, variety of courses on offer and value for money. 

Andalusia, Spain 

A 30 Day 200-hour Integral Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Course in Orgiva, Andalusia (Photo: BookYogaRetreats.com)

Between its sun-coaked beaches, Moorish architecture and ancient olive grove culture, the southern coast of Spain makes an idyllic and inspiring spot for a yoga retreat. The Ananda Forest, located just outside Orgiva, provides a peaceful setting for a 200-hour Yoga Alliance-certified training, focusing on Hatha, Karma and Integral yoga. Another excellent choice is the Shangri-La in Cadiz, nestled between The Alcornocales Natural Park and the bustling city of Seville, which offers an immersive yoga teacher training experience with a focus on spirituality and creativity. Both retreats offer rigorous training and relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty. 

Explore retreats at BookYogaRetreats.com. 

Tuscany, Italy 

15 Days Private 200-Hour Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in Bibbona, Tuscany (Photo: BookYogaRetreats.com)

Tuscany may be synonymous with good food and excellent wine, but, with its undulating hills, cypress-lined roads and vineyard-lined terraces, the region oozes pastoral charm. Beyond its scenic beauty, Tuscany is a region steeped in art, history, and spirituality—home to Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, medieval hill towns like San Gimignano, and the tranquil landscapes immortalized by artists. For yoga practitioners, the serene countryside offers a peaceful escape from the modern world. Many YTT programs here are set within historic villas or farmhouses surrounded by olive groves and lavender fields, such as Holistic Yoga Garden, which offers immersive teacher training in tranquil countryside settings, complemented by farm-to-table dining experiences. Alternatively, Lorenza Minola presents a beachside retreat with a 14-day program that includes daily vinyasa, asana, pranayama practices, and meditation sessions.

The Algarve, Portugal 

18-Day 200-Hour Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training Course in La Casa Shambala, Monchique (Photo: BookYogaRetreats.com)

Portugal’s southernmost region is famous for its dramatic cliffs, sheltered bays, and endless stretches of golden sand beaches kissed by the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its year-round mild climate and vibrant coastal towns like Lagos and Albufeira, the Algarve is a paradise for those who love both relaxation and adventure. Beyond its natural beauty, this region boasts a slower pace of life, making it ideal for yoga teaching training experiences. Training often takes place in eco-resorts and rustic hideaways where participants can practice on clifftop terraces or secluded beaches. Top options include a 15-day 300-hour advanced vinyasa and ashtanga YTT on the Praia da Rocha and a 23-day 200-hour Transformational YTT in an eco-residence overlooking the lush gardens of the Quinta do Mar da Luz. 

Provence, France 

300-hour Hatha and Vinyasa YTT near Avignon (Photo: BookYogaRetreats.com)

Provence, with its lavender fields, ancient olive groves and warm Mediterranean light, has inspired artists for centuries. This region is an enchanting tapestry of natural beauty and rustic elegance, from the rolling vineyards and hilltop villages of Luberon to the brilliant blue waters of the Côte d’Azur. YTT programs in Provence are often held in lovingly restored farmhouses or secluded chateaus, surrounded by aromatic herbs and wildflowers. For something a little different, Villa Ataeva offers 15 days of training in Hatha, Sama, Aqua and Paddle yoga in a spectacular setting overlooking the Rayol-Canadel. Satya Yoga Ahsram, in Avignon, provides a nurturing environment for deep self-exploration and teacher training to guarantee a transformative yoga journey. 

Austrian Alps, Austria

11-Day Healing Retreat and 100-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in the Austrian Alps (Photo: BookYogaRetreats.com)

The Austrian Alps, with their towering peaks, glacial lakes and pristine meadows offer an awe-inspiring setting for yogis. Synonymous with both adventure and tranquillity, the region provides a powerful backdrop for introspection and yoga practice. All that clean air helps breathwork too. Yoga retreats here are often hosted in luxurious mountain lodges or charming alpine chalets, where participants can practice yoga against the backdrop of awe-inspiring scenery. The peaceful environment, combined with opportunities for hiking and exploring alpine trails, makes the Austrian Alps an exceptional destination for personal reflection and spiritual growth. Try the Soami Retreat Center in Obermillstatt for long morning practices threaded with pranayama and deep asana practice, or FitYoga for an intensive retreat a stone’s throw from the cross-country skiing trails of Charlet.  ​​

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The 12 best hotels in Sicily for luxury retreats, beach stays and hiking holidays

From a luxury beach resort to an off-grid spaceship-like hideout, here’s our pick of the top places to stay, article bookmarked.

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Sicily is like a wedding cake. Layers upon layers of history and tradition combined with a landscape that curves from the mountains into the sea. Between the fiery Mount Etna and the colourful, narrow streets of the ancient cities, the largest of the Mediterranean islands continues to be one of the most desirable holiday spots in Italy .

For those looking for history and culture, cities like Taormina , Ragusa and Syracuse will deliver the foundations of Sicily through its architecture and museums. Active travellers will find the wilderness of Madonie mountain range perfect for hiking and cycling. Eating will always be an intriguing activity in Sicily, where ‘Italian’ cuisine is influenced by Greek, Spanish, French, Jewish and Arabic flavours through the conflicts and conquest of past centuries.

The island’s popularity has seen a boom in hotel openings, specifically catering to travellers looking for the luxury treatment enjoyed by the rich and famous of the past. From ancient monasteries and century-old family farmlands, to restored palaces and luxurious seaside resorts, there is a place for everyone visiting Sicily – here are the best hotels to stay in.

The best hotels in Sicily

At a glance.

• Best beach hotel: Hotel Le Calette
• Best family hotel: Monaci delle Terre Nere
• Best five-star hotel: ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA
• Best boutique hotel: San Giorgio Palace
• Best hotel in Palermo: Villa Igiea
• Best hotel in Taormina: San Domenico Palace, Four Seasons
• Best hotel in Syracuse: Hotel Des Étrangers Siracusa

1. Monaci delle Terre Nere

Zafferana etnea.

Monaci delle Terre Nere began as an Augustinian monastery in the 17th century, and it has become the passion project of its owner, Guido Coffa, to restore the property from ruin to its former glory. While retaining the monastic heritage, Guido had added personal touches to the interior by combining the rustic foundations with dashes of fine contemporary art among the antique pieces. According to the Slow Food movement, ingredients for the on-site fine dining restaurant Locanda Nerello are mostly sourced from the 25 hectares of the estate’s own farm and organic vineyard on the slope of Mount Etna.

Address: Via Monaci, Via Pietralunga, sn, 95019 Zafferana Etnea CT

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Read more: Where to visit in Sicily

2. Hotel Le Calette

One wouldn’t imagine a more picturesque place than Cefalu, with its sandy beach and bustling town centre flanked by mountains that dip dramatically into the sea. And yet, follow the rocks into its coves and you get a completely different perspective, and this is where Hotel Le Calette sets itself apart. Wedged into the coves ( calettes ) of the rocks at one end of Cefalu, hidden behind a bay are two parts to the hotel – one five-star wing, one four-star. Both share an excellent beach club with a bar and restaurant, as well as a separate dining area called Gourmet Cala Luna for a more romantic dining experience. There is also an excellent spa and wellness area for all that important pampering after a day out exploring.

Address: Via Cavallaro, 12, 90015 Cefalù PA

Read more: The best places to cruise in Italy

3. ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA

If trying to disconnect and disappear is one of your reasons to come to Sicily, then ADLER Spa Resort, on the quiet south coast surrounded by wilderness, will be the perfect retreat. Its architecture is designed to blend into the hills of the surrounding nature reserves – it seemingly disappears into the curves of the landscape. Guests are invited to join daily guided hikes to learn about the flora and fauna of the area. A white sandy beach can be reached just at the base of the hill via a walking track or with a quick buggy transfer. The spa is a dream, where a rejuvenating massage is perfect way to spend a couple of hours before a scrumptious dinner at the end of the day.

Address: Contrada Salsa, 92010 Siculiana AG

Read more: The best holiday destinations in Italy

4. San Domenico Palace, Four Seasons

The White Lotus did not choose this hotel to be its backdrop for no reason. The San Domenico Palace is a stunning hotel. It has the charmed location of being close to all of Taormina’s historical sights, at the same time feeling a world away from the crowds on its clifftop position with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Other than the modernised interior of the rooms according to the Four Seasons standard, much of the historic monastery ambience has been carefully preserved. It is worth trying to stay in the smaller bedrooms found in the original wing of the building where monks used to live.

Address: Via S. Domenico, 5, 98039 Taormina ME

Read more: I’m the concierge at the real ‘White Lotus’ hotel – this is how our guests really spend their time

5. La Foresteria Planetaestate

La Foresteria Wine Resort is among the best boutique hotels in Sicily. Its 14 rooms may not have the slick decor of many high-end properties but the welcome here is akin to being inducted into the family. Guests can sign up for vineyard tours and tastings of the Planeta family’s award-winning wines or choose to do very little and simply relax. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and a garden of flowers and herbs, the outlook from the terrace is perfect for enjoying dolce far niente – sweet idleness. Adding to the resort’s intimate allure, La Foresteria is a short trip away from the beautiful Blue Flag Fiori Beach, and has its own beach club that guests of the resort have free access to. Wine and beach? Yes please.

Address: Contrada Passo di Gurra Ex S.S. 115 s.p. 79, Km 91 92013 Menfi

Read more: The family-friendly holiday spot loved by the Beckhams – with warm seas and delicious food

6. Villa Igiea

Glamourous Villa Igiea is a long-time favourite of royalty, dignitaries and celebrities from around the world. Shadowed in the foot of Mount Pellegrino, this 19th-century palazzo is a step away from the hustle and bustle of Palermo, and remains one of the best hotels around the Sicilian capital. The Art Nouveau interior is impressive and the elegant garden, shaded by umbrella pines and perfumed by citrus trees, is close to the marina and the indigo waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The highlight is dining in the original Louis XVI hall that is home to Florio Restaurant, which serves up a menu of modernised Sicilian flavours.

Address: Salita Belmonte 43, Palermo

Read more: This ivy-clad Rome neighbourhood is where the locals come to eat

7. Hotel Des Étrangers Siracusa

Imagine staying among the ancient ruins, fortress and museums of the small island Ortygia where original Syracuse was founded, in a grand hotel that was once part of the iconic Grand Tour of Italy, frequented by the rich and famous. Well, you can – the Grand Hotel Des Etrangers is one of the best luxury hotels in Syracuse. The property embraces its past – you won’t miss its classical palatial façade – but it brought up to date with its modern guest facilities. The views from the terrace towards the Ionian Sea are perfect for that sunset aperitif after a couple of hours of pampering in the spa.

Address: Passeggio Adorno 10/12, Siracusa 96100 (SR)

Read more: The best things to do in Palermo

8. Hotel Villa Favorita

A historic hotel that was born from an 18th-century summer residence of the Di Lorenzo family, barons of Granieri and marquises of Castelluccio – and it’s still managed by the same family. Hotel Villa Favorita retains much of the grandeur of nobility, with a beautiful Italian garden and ancient almond trees; the latter line the entrance and the pool, which overlooks the Unesco-listed Baroque city of Noto. The Villa’s own production of olive oil and wines, as well as a small farm with citrus fruits, almonds and a flock of chickens, supply the ingredients to its restaurant, which serves traditional Sicilian dishes.

Address: SP34, 96017 Noto SR

Read more: The best destinations in Italy for a city break

9. San Giorgio Palace

Ancient Ragusa Ibla is commonly described as an island within the island. As the former house of Sicilian nobility, in this old part of Ragusa, San Giorgio Palace seems to be carved into the island’s ancient rocks. The surprise comes not from the modern bedrooms that retain part of the stone foundations, nor the private garden with colours and aromas that sends guests into an sensual bliss. It is the hotel’s vast array of Sicilian art, from ceramics to mosaics, sculptures to paintings, celebrating Sicilian culture and heritage through visual interpretations that are displayed in every corner of the Palace.

Address: Via Avvocato Giovanni Ottaviano, 97100 Ragusa RG

Read more: The ultimate Italy travel guide

10. The Ashbee

If you think there is an English colonial feel to this hotel, you’d be right. The Ashbee was built in 1908 by Colonel Shaw-Hellier – alongside his friend and architect Charles Robert Ashbee, a lead figure in the Arts & Craft movement – as his residence in the last four years of his life. Each room has a character of its own, and the hotel’s restaurant, which holds two Michelin stars, is considered one of the “most desirable and exclusive locations” by the prestigious guide. Step outside and you’re in the heart of Taormina, with easy access to the Teatro Antico di Taormina and many of this city’s other attractions.

Address: Viale S. Pancrazio, 46, 98039 Taormina ME

Read more: Best hotels on the Amalfi coast

11. Villa Athena Resort

Located within the Unesco World Heritage Valley of the Temples of Agrigento, Villa Athena Resort is the ideal hotel for visiting this Italian Capital of Culture in 2025. This 18th-century villa is the only five-star property within the compound, offering an unobstructed view of the ancient Temple of Concordia from its restaurant and some of the rooms; the quiet surrounds of the olive groves and farm create an illusion of being the only house among the ruins. Recently renovated rooms are spacious and furnished with all the essentials for a comfortable stay that feels like home for travellers, including a writing desk and arm chairs, plus a separate living space in the suites. When not sightseeing, guests can join cooking classes, have picnics on the farm or simply unwind at the spa.

Address: Via Passeggiata Archeologica, 33 cap. 92100 Agrigento

Read more: Five of the best views in Rome

12. Polizzi Generosa

Surrounded by Sicily’s bio-diverse Madonie mountain range and 600 hectares of farmland, Susafa is a little luxury retreat from the world. This farmhouse has been owned by the Saeli-Rizzutos since the 19th century, and the family has transformed the farmhouse into a cultural experience destination in Sicily. Each room had a traditional function in the past and now are tastefully decorated with modern facilities. The property still maintains a working farm, producing many of the ingredients for the seasonal menu at Susafa’s Il Granaio restaurant. Cuisine is at the centre of the Susafa experience, and guests are offered cooking classes, picnics and luncheons in the fields, garden tours and wine tasting sessions.

Address: Contrada Susafa, 90028 Polizzi Generosa PA

Read more: Best things to do in Milan

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The best cities for solo travellers, according to an expert

Offering the perfect blend of culture and cosmopolitan comforts, a city break is a great trip for solo adventurers, says Tracey Davies, editor of 101 Singles Holidays

Travelling on your own can be one of life's most enriching experiences, which is why I love my job as editor of solo travel guide 101 Singles Holidays . Offering freedom, independence and the opportunity to live to the beat of your own drum, going solo is one the fastest growing sectors in the travel industry.

New to travelling alone? City breaks are a great way to begin your solo journey. Whether it's exploring the intoxicating Medina in Marrakech , the bohemian fado bars of Bairro Alto in Lisbon or the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, stay in the heart of a city and you'll be within easy reach of the key attractions, landmarks, museums and nightlife.

Travelling solo doesn't have to mean spending all your time alone, however. The solo travel industry is booming right now and there are numerous singles tours and group holidays on offer that appeal to all interests and ages. It can be a great way to meet and explore with a bunch of like-minded folk.

So, whether you’re looking for some pure alone time or wanting to explore as part of a bigger group, here are the best cities for solo travel…

Vienna, Austria

Beautiful, safe and friendly, Vienna is one of Europe's best cities for solo travel. Activity-wise, relax in Mozart's favourite coffee house, feast on frisbee-sized schnitzels in a leafy beer garden or catch a classical music recital.

Stay at the Anantara Palais Hansen on the city’s famous Ringstraße boulevard, which gives you easy access to grand imperial palaces, a multitude of world-class museums and Vienna State Opera.

Good Housekeeping's four-day guided city break in Vienna includes a live show by Dutch violinist and conductor André Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra in the opulent 19th-century Stadthalle.

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Venice, Italy

Although considered one of the most romantic cities in Europe, Venice is perfect for exploring alone.

On your own time, you can sail down the many canals on vaporettos (water buses), wander between the different neighbourhoods, and enjoy aperitivo hour in a cicchetteria , the Venetian tapas bars dotted all around the city.

Steeped in Renaissance and Gothic architecture, be sure to visit the art galleries and vintage boutiques of Dorsoduro as well as the palazzos and piazzas of San Marco.

For a dreamy solo stay, book a room at Hotel Fenice et Des Artistes , a charming independent hotel near St Mark's Square, which has a clutch of single rooms, a private garden and a bar.

Alternatively, GH's eight-day Venice river cruise explores more of the Venetian lagoon, including the islands of Burano and Mazzorbo. Foodies will be excited to hear that the sailing also includes a live Q&A and gala dinner with acclaimed chef James Martin, too.

If you're a music lover, don't miss this Good Housekeeping island hopping river cruise around Veneto, which includes a rare and intimate performance by world-famous tenor Russell Watson at the grand Scuola Grande dei Carmini.

Istanbul, Turkey

In a list compiled by Wizz Air based on 2023 Tripadvisor reviews, Istanbul ranked third in the 'Top 20 European Cities for Solo Travellers,' thanks to an abundance of sights and welcoming restaurants.

In the city where East meets West, pick up a trinket in the maze-like Grand Bazaar, catch the hypnotic twirl of the Whirling Dervishes at a local folk show, or even cruise along the Bosphorus Strait over to Asia.

Stay at the Hagia Sofia Mansions, Curio Collection by Hilton , which is within easy reach of Topkapi Palace and the Blue Mosque (pictured) and has a fabulous spa.

To really make the most of your time in Turkey , why not double up with a few days in historic Cappadocia, a semi-arid region famed for its fairy chimneys and rock formations. Friendship Travel , who are specialists in relaxed singles holidays, offer a six-day trip combining three nights in Istanbul and three nights in Cappadocia.

Athens, Greece

Friendly, accessible and packed with landmark sights, Athens is one of the best cities for solo travel in Europe.

You don’t need companions to climb up Acropolis hill and explore the ancient site of the Parthenon, hit the beaches of the Athenian Riviera, potter around Monastiraki’s flea market or scoff souvlaki from a street food vendor.

Promising one of the finest views of the Acropolis, book a stay in the NYX Esperia Palace Hotel Athens by Leonardo Hotels, which has a rooftop pool overlooking the Parthenon.

If you’re interested in exploring with like-minded solo travellers, this seven-night trip to Greece with Solo Holidays begins with two days in Athens before heading to the ancient towns of Epidaurus, Delphi and Olympia.

Lisbon, Portugal

Yellow trams, fado music and pastéis de Belém (the city’s famed custard tarts) are three good reasons to choose Lisbon for a solo city break.

A warm, welcoming city spread across seven hills, visit the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (one of the highest peaks in Lisbon) for panoramic views or simply potter around the bohemian neighbourhoods of Bairro Alto and Alfama.

If you time your trip right, you could also catch one of the local festivals – like Lisbon Sardine Festival – which pop up throughout the summer.

For easy access to all the main attractions, the riverside and the verdant Jardim de Estrela, stay at the charming boutique hotel Dear Lisbon Gallery House in Bairro Alto.

For a singles-friendly group holiday in Lisbon, this eight-day escorted tour by solo travel specialist Just You Holidays takes in Sintra, Cascais and Porto, as well as packing in plenty of time to enjoy the Portuguese capital.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Polished limestone streets, peaceful beaches and plenty of sunset bars in the cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea make Dubrovnik utterly charming. The Croatian city is also one of the best spots for single travellers, too.

Walk the around the medieval walls of the Old City, dine out in the many friendly restaurants, or hop on a speed boat and sail out to the surrounding islands of Lokrum, Daksa and Lopud. Of course, Dubrovnik will always be King's Landing to Game of Thrones fans, for whom there are plenty of GOT -themed walking tours on offer.

Slightly away from the main hustle and bustle, the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is located just outside the Old Town walls. The grand hotel has a swimming pool, spa and striking views over Fort Lovrijenac and the sea beyond.

Just You offer an eight-day tour of Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian Coast , which includes a cruise to the Elaphiti Islands and a trip to the fortified town of Kotor in Montenegro, just across the border.

Seville, Spain

One of the most beautiful cities in Spain , Seville is a great choice for your first solo city break. With a compact centre and old town, Seville is one of the easiest Spanish cities to explore on foot.

Spend your days wandering around the jasmine-scented streets of Barrio Santa Cruz or climbing up La Giralda, Seville's landmark Gothic bell tower, while at night you can visit the hole-in-the-wall tapas bars in Alameda and Macarena for plates of succulent caracoles (snails coked in broth) and glasses of cava.

For a central stay, consider the beautiful Hotel Fernando III in the historic Santa Cruz district, which boasts a rooftop pool with a birds-eye view of La Giralda.

If you want to share the experience with a group, award-winning escorted tours company Newmarket Holidays offers an eight-day stay in the Andalusian city of Antequera, which includes guided day trips to Seville, Cordoba and Granada.

Dublin, Ireland

If you're looking for a good time, look no further than Dublin, easily one of the most sociable cities in the world.

One of the best ways to see Ireland’s capital is via a walking tour, like a literary-themed one that takes in Oscar Wilde's old haunts, or a boozy one that stops at Guinness Storehouse and some of the city’s most lively pubs.

For accommodation worth writing home about, book at room at The Clarence on Wellington Quay. Once owned by Bono and The Edge of U2, this boutique hotel is one of Dublin's most iconic places to stay and is only a two-minute walk from the lively Temple Bar district.

For an extended taste of the Emerald Isle, On The Go escorted holidays offers a brilliant three-day tour for solo travellers that takes in Dublin, winds past the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park, and spends a day in lovely Galway.

Valletta, Malta

The smallest capital city in Europe just so happens to be one of the most beautiful – and perfect for single explorer.

Malta was under British rule until the 1960s and the Maltese archipelago still has plenty of Anglo influence – English is widely spoken and there’s even a Marks & Spencer!

Pincered by two harbours, the tiny 16th-century walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its criss-crossed, sand-coloured streets are lined with boutique shops, coffee houses and an array of fine restaurants. Don't miss peeking into 16th-century St John's Co-Cathedral to spy Caravaggio's masterpiece, the Beheading of St John the Baptist .

For a solo traveller’s treat, book a stay at Rosselli AX Privilege in the heart of Valletta. This swanky five-star hotel is housed in a 19th-century baroque building, which was once owned by the Knights of Malta.

Alternatively, this eight-day guided trip to Malta by Saga Holidays includes a day’s tour of Valletta as well as a trip to the neighbouring island of Gozo to see the ancient Ġgantija temples.

More travel inspiration:

- The best solo travel destinations

- The best cruises for solo travellers

- The 2025 holidays worth booking in advance

- 17 European holidays worthy of your bucket list

- The best luxury train holidays

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Copenhagen travel guide: 72 hours in Denmark

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