best cultural places to visit in 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. IIstanbul, 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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20 Most Beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe

By Caitlin Morton

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

What it is: A forest reserve in central Croatia known for its terraced lakes, waterfalls, caves, and limestone canyons—and under threat from selfie-taking tourists .

Red Square of Moscow, Russia

What it is: A city square that sits directly east of the Kremlin (official residence of the President of Russia). It features such beautiful buildings as St. Basil's Basilica and State Historical Museum.

Vlkolínec, Slovakia

What it is: A remarkably intact settlement of 45 buildings in Ružomberok (in central Slovakia), with records dating back to the late 13th century. The town reflects the traditional features of a central European village, complete with log cabins, stables with haylofts, and wooden bell tower.

Rila Monastery, Bulgaria

What it is: The largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria, founded in the 10th century and rebuild in the mid-1800s.

Mont-Saint-Michel, France

What it is: A Gothic-style abbey built between the 11th and 16th centuries, perched on an islet exposed to dramatic tides in northwestern Normandy.

Monastery of Alcobaça, Portugal

What it is: A Roman Catholic church located north of Lisbon in the town of Alcobaça, founded in the 12th century by King Alfonso I. It represents the arrival of early Gothic style in Portugal.

Budapest (Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue), Hungary

What it is: The central stretch of the city illustrates great periods of Hungarian history via stunning architecture, including such masterpieces as the Parliament (pictured), Opera House, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and the Market Hall.

Churches of Peace in Jawor and Świdnica, Poland

What it is: Constructed within one year after the Peace of Westphalia (treaties ending the Thirty Years' War in 1648), these churches—the largest timber-framed religious buildings in Europe—were built by Lutherans in the Roman Catholic parts of Silesia, Poland.

Urnes Stave Church, Norway

What it is: An outstanding example of traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture, standing in the beautiful county of Sogn og Fjordane in western Norway.

Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

What it is: A studded coast made up of about 40,000 polygonal basalt columns, the result of ancient volcanic activity .

Pont du Gard (Roman Aqueduct), France

What it is: An ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River in southern France. It carries water 31 miles to Nîmes and stand 160 feet high on three levels, making it a technical—as well as artistic—masterpiece.

Pilgrimage Church of Wies, Germany

What it is: A Bavarian Rococo church preserved in a beautiful Alpine valley, about 50 miles southwest of Munich.

West Norwegian Fjords, Norway

What it is: Situated in southwestern Norway, Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord (pictured) are among the world’s longest and deepest fjords . Their beautiful landscapes feature numerous waterfalls, glacial lakes, and forests.

Vatican City, Holy See

What it is: One of the most sacred places in Christendom, ruled by the Pope . The Vatican City houses many artistic and architectural masterpieces like St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.

Millenary Benedictine Abbey of Pannonhalma, Hungary

What it is: A monastic community and one of the oldest historical monuments in Hungary , founded in 996.

Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

What it is: A 154-square-mile national park in the Pirin Mountains in southwest Bulgaria, covered by alpine meadows, glacial lakes , coniferous forests, and two designated ski areas.

La Grand-Place, Brussels, Belgium

What it is: The central square of Brussels , with homogeneous, architecturally opulent buildings dating from the late 17th century.

Old City of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

What it is: A historic city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina situated on the Neretva River. The town is well-known for its Old Bridge, built in the 16th century and considered as one of the greatest architectural achievements in the Ottoman-controlled Balkans.

Ilulissat Icefjord, Denmark

What it is: A fjord in western Greenland, 155 miles north of the Arctic Circle. It includes Sermeq Kujalleq, one of the most active glaciers in the world.

Palau de la Música Catalana, Barcelona, Spain

What it is: A famous music hall, and one of the finest examples of Catalan modernista style—think rich details, floral motifs, and curved lines—by art nouveau architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner (along with the city's Hospital de Sant Pau).

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The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

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It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.

United Kingdom

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With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.

Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.

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Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.

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Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.

Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .

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An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play. 

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With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history . 

The Netherlands

Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.

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If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.

Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .

Switzerland

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As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .

This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.

Faroe Islands

It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.

Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .

Czech Republic

If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.

If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .

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100 Best Places to Visit in Europe – The Ultimate Bucket List

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With so many great options, choosing the best places to visit in Europe can be difficult, from city breaks filled with fascinating history and culture, getaways in nature among breathtaking landscapes and unique natural parks, or the best holiday destinations for a relaxing beach holiday with the whole family.

Venice, Paris and Verona are some of the most beautiful cities for a romantic holiday; Ibiza, Belgrade and Amsterdam promise the best parties and liveliest nightlife, while Riga, Florence and Vienna delight with history and art.

Iceland and the Faroe Islands dazzle outdoor enthusiasts with the most beautiful sceneries, while Croatia and the Greek Islands stand out for their pristine beaches and crystal clear water.

Manchester and Barcelona are some of the best cities to watch a football game in Europe, and for those who want to practice sports, consider Andorra for winter sports, the Azores for watersports and Norway for scenic hikes.

From the Spanish paella and the Italian pasta to the Ukrainian borsch, Europe is also a paradise for the foodies, with extraordinary and diverse gastronomy.

Ready to start planning your next trip?

1 – Venice, Italy

Venice is definitely one of the best places in Europe for a Romantic getaway, with lovely canals, hundreds of bridges and charming alleys, mixed with fascinating history, stunning architecture and a unique lifestyle.

Explore St. Mark’s Square, where the famous Doge’s Palace is located, one of the most visited landmarks in Venice and an impressive Gothic architecture masterpiece.

Next to the Palace, stop by one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe and the most important religious site in Venice, the Basilica of San Marco; and for a glimpse of the whole Venetian lagoon, climb to the St. Mark’s Campanile observation deck.

Cross the Paglia Bridge to admire the iconic Bridge of Sighs, and the Rialto Bridge – the oldest and most famous in Venice – for an overview of the Grand Canal. And, of course, take a boat tour or gondola ride, for a unique viewpoint of the canals!

Don’t miss a chance to explore the lovely islands of Murano, the perfect place to grab a souvenir, or watch a glass-making demonstration; and Burano, famous for its colorful houses.

• Venice tours

See also: Things to do in Venice , Doge’s Palace tickets , Best Venice boat tours , Tourist attractions in Venice , Best places to visit in Italy

2 – Paris, France

Speaking of romantic cities, Paris is a must on every couple’s bucket list. But there’s much more to do beyond an idyllic Seine River cruise, or watching the Eiffel Tower lit up!

From the prestigious Louvre to the acclaimed d’Orsay, Paris has more museums and monuments than one can count. The city itself is a work of art, and a free walking tour or a hop-on hop-off bus tour are the best ways to explore the Arc de Triomphe, the Notre Dame, the Sacré Coeur, and all that Paris has to offer.

For those looking for some unusual things to do in Paris, the Catacombs are worth a visit, and for the football lovers, don’t miss the PSG Experience stadium tour!

With plenty of day trips available, the hardest part is choosing among a delicious tasting in the Champagne region, touring the beautiful châteaux of the ​​Loire Valley, or feeling the magic at Disneyland.

At nightfall, the city gets as exciting as during the day, with vibrant nightlife and many night tours to explore. Stroll through Montmartre or The Latin Quarter, grab a drink at the city’s best bars or attend a show at ​Lido de Paris or Moulin Rouge!

• Paris tours

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3 – Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is one of the best places in Europe for those seeking good weather, good food, and exciting history, mixed with lively nightlife – especially at Bairro Alto.

Get lost in the narrow streets and charming alleys of the district of Alfama, the oldest in the city, stop by the Sé Cathedral and admire the views from the S. Jorge Castle.

For the architecture lovers, the Belém district is full of wonders, such as the Belém Tower or Jerónimos Monastery, the most magnificent examples of Manueline style – also known as the Portuguese late Gothic.

While in Lisbon, there are plenty of incredible day trips, such as the university town of Coimbra ; Aveiro, frequently labeled as the Portuguese Venice; or Fátima, the leading pilgrimage site.

However, no trip to Lisbon would be complete without visiting Sintra, the fairy tale city. With enchanting woods and a charming medieval village to explore, the cherry on top is the colorful Pena Palace, one of Portugal’s most renowned tourist attractions.

• Lisbon tours

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4 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Among the most bicycle-friendly cities in Europe, the charming capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famous for its canals, a fascinating architecture mixture, and great coffee shops.

Immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture with a visit to Anne Frank’s House in the Jewish Quarter and browse through the city’s best museums, such as the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum.

Taking a day trip is always a good idea, especially in a beautiful country like the Netherlands. Visit the medieval town center of Utrecht, the modern metropolis of Rotterdam, or stop by Keukenhof during the spring for a magical glimpse of the tulips fields.

For a unique experience, sail through the picturesque canals on a canal cruise and marvel at the city’s landmarks.

• Amsterdam tours

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5 – Rome, Italy

The capital of the Roman Empire, Rome, has thousands of years of history and culture. It is famous for its stunning architecture, with the main attractions being the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.

Walking around the Eternal City is like visiting an open-air museum, and to check all of the best sites, take a city tour or a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

But there’s also plenty to see indoors, such as the Borghese Gallery, one of the most prestigious museums in the world. For those seeking unusual activities, check the Catacombs of Rome, the underground galleries used as a cemetery for centuries.

Once the sun sets, there’s still fun guaranteed in Rome, with exciting nightlife. Choose from the night tours available to explore the main attractions, embrace the culture and meet locals.

Due to its location, Rome is a perfect city to establish a base and explore the rest of Italy. Before the trip is over, take a day trip to Naples and the sunny Amalfi Coast, marvel at the Renaissance heritage in Florence, or visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hadrian’s Villa or Villa d’Este in Tivoli.

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6 – Tromsø, Norway

Where else in the world can combine the magic of the northern lights with the spectacle of city life? Tromsø, located in Norway, is one of the most unique cities in Europe and is known as the “Paris of the North” for good reason.

From reindeer sledding to restaurant excursions, you can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and urban living. During winter, the skies are illuminated with the aurora borealis. You can hit the slopes and go skiing or head indoors for some excellent shopping and dining. Between November and January is also an ideal window for whale watching.

Come summer, you can stay up all night with the Midnight Sun and explore the city, go hiking or join a cruise on the fjords to catch sight of the Arctic wildlife.

During your visit, don’t forget to soak up the culture. Plenty of festivals run throughout the year, including the Tromsø International Film Festival. You can even dine over a traditional meal with Sami reindeer herders and gain an appreciation for indigenous heritage.

• Tromsø tours

See also: Things to do in Tromsø , Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around the Globe

7 – Vatican City

The smallest country in the world and located inside of Rome, Vatican City is one of the best European destinations for Catholics or those seeking religious and cultural experiences.

Tour the city’s top-rated attractions, such as the Vatican Museums, with one of the world’s largest art collections, including the Sistine Chapel, to admire Michelangelo’s beautiful frescoes, or the St. Peter’s Basilica, to explore one of the holiest and most important pilgrimage sites.

Wander around St. Peter’s Square, a popular gathering point for tourists and book a seat at the weekly Papal Audience, held every Wednesday, because no trip to the Vatican is complete without seeing the Pope.

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8 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

Also known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, the sunkissed Dubrovnik welcomes thousands of tourists every year and marvels them with a unique seafront location and a pleasant Old Town.

Stroll through Cersei’s walk of shame and the Old City Walls on a Game of Thrones tour, that takes the fans across the many filming locations in Dubrovnik, one of the best European cities for TV shows fans.

Visit the top of Mount Srd and soak in the views from the Dubrovnik Cable Car; party at Banje Beach and enjoy many water activities, such as a kayak and snorkeling adventure!

To make the most out of the trip, go on a day trip to explore paradise islands, such as the Elaphiti Islands or Hvar, and pristine beaches in Budva or Makarska.

• Dubrovnik tours

See also: Things to do in Dubrovnik , Best day trips from Dubrovnik , Game of Thrones tours in Dubrovnik

9 – Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are a Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean along the African coast, with 8 unique islands to explore. A true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, with mild temperatures, sunny weather, and unspoiled natural attractions.

With plenty of exciting experiences available, Tenerife is the biggest island of the archipelago, home to Spain’s highest peak (also one of the highest volcanoes in the world). Go for a hike at Teide National Park (or take a stargazing tour), meet the animals at Loro Park, and swim with turtles.

Continue the trip with a visit to Fuerteventura, declared by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, highlighting the dazzling landscapes of Timanfaya National Park. Discover volcanic tunnels at Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes, and taste wine at the volcanic vineyards of La Geria.

Stop by Gran Canaria to stroll around Vegueta’s old town and relax at the best golden sand beaches. But the other islands are also worth a visit, at least on a day trip – La Gomera, with the unique Garajonay National Park; El Hierro with more than 40 diving points;

Save some time for La Palma, with the breathtaking La Caldera de Taburiente National Park; Fuerteventura with pristine beaches and La Graciosa with unique underwater flora and fauna.

• Canary Islands tours

See also: Things to do in Lanzarote , Things to do in Gran Canaria , Things to do in Tenerife , Things to do in Fuerteventura

10 – London, United Kingdom

London is at the top of the bucket list for most travelers, and it’s not hard to figure out why: one of the world’s most acclaimed and cosmopolitan cities, with over two millennia of history, rich in arts, science, architecture, politics, and lively nightlife.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with so many great things to do in London, to ensure the best sites such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and London Eye are visited, take a free walking tour or hop on a bus tour.

To relax from the fast pace of the city, stop by the Kew Gardens, meet the animals at London Zoo, visit one of the city’s many museums or catch a musical show.

Consider also taking a day trip to the prehistoric Stonehenge, the spa town of Bath, or the charming town of Windsor – with the main attraction being the Windsor Castle.

And of course, one cannot mention London without a Harry Potter tour and the chance to experience the magic Harry Potter Studio.

• London tours

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11 – Barcelona, Spain

Artistic, festive, and fun, Barcelona combines a rich cultural heritage with golden sand beaches and vibrant nightlife.

With the Sagrada Familia attracting visitors worldwide, Park Güell and Casa Batlló are also among the city’s highlights. Still, with so much to discover, it might be worth checking the Barcelona attractions passes to ensure the best deals and visit as many monuments as possible.

A walking tour and a hop-on hop-off bus tour are among the best ways to explore Barcelona, but the cherry on top is the helicopter tour for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view.

Stop by La Boqueria to taste some of Barcelona’s finest treats, and for the football fans touring the Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona, is a must.

After checking all of the best tours Barcelona has to offer, it’s always a great idea to explore the surroundings on a day trip. Whether snorkeling on Costa Brava or skiing in Andorra, there’s something for every tourist!

• Barcelona tours

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12 – Munich, Germany

With some of the best breweries and Biergartens in Germany, famous for the annual Oktoberfest celebrations, but also with a rich history, architecture, and delicious cuisine, Munich is a major European destination.

Grab a drink at Englischer Garten; explore the Old Town and see the Marienplatz or take a food tour at Viktualienmarkt; visit Nymphenburg Palace, the largest Bavarian palace, check all of Kunstareal District museums and cheer on Bayern Munich at Allianz Arena.

The whole Bavaria region is also worth exploring, so save time for a day trip to visit the magical Neuschwanstein Castle, the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or ski at Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze.

• Munich tours

See also: Things to do in Munich , Best day trips from Munich

13 – Monaco

The sophisticated and glamorous city-state along the French Riviera, with mild temperatures and home to more millionaires than any other region in the world, Monaco is an excellent destination during the entire year and has plenty of fun things to do.

See the sharks at the Oceanographic Museum, stroll through Palais du Prince, take a walking tour around the charming Old Town, or catch a world-class performance at Opéra de Monte-Carlo.

For car enthusiasts, try a luxury car driving experience and get behind the wheel of a Lamborghini or a Ferrari.

Considering booking the trip during the F1 Grand Prix to catch one of the most thrilling and top-rated races in the world and, of course, try your luck at the best casinos – especially the Monte-Carlo.

• Monaco tours

See also: Things to do in Monaco

14 – Oxford, United Kingdom

Home to England’s oldest university, Oxford is a historical wonderland to explore, and the highlights include the Ashmolean Museum and the Museum of Natural History.

Oxford is one of the best European destinations for scholars and literature, and cinema enthusiasts, with places like Alice’s shop and Alice’s Window at Christ Church to explore.

Plenty of famous authors held academic positions at Oxford University, such as Lewis Carroll (Alice in Wonderland), J. R. R. Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings) and C. S. Lewis (The Chronicles of Narnia), and only one hour drive away, it’s possible to explore Shakespeare’s birthplace at Stratford-upon-Avon.

Discover the most fabulous filming locations on a Harry Potter or Downton Abbey tour, from the Divinity School and Bodleian Library to the Cogges Manor Farm and St Mary’s Church.

• Oxford tours

See also: Things to do in Oxford

15 – Amalfi Coast, Italy

One of the most beautiful places in the world , attracting thousands of tourists every year, Amalfi Coast is the perfect spring/summer getaway, with a stunning coastline, breathtaking scenic drives and lovely villages to explore.

Start the trip in the port city of Salerno and climb to the top of Castello di Arechi to admire the unique views 270 meters above the gulf. Continue with Vietri sul Mare to appreciate as much art as possible and the typical colorful ceramics.

Stop by the small fishing village of Cetara and taste the delicious seafood before continuing to Maiori and soaking up some local culture and cuisine, or exploring the hidden gem of Tramonti.

Try Minori’s pasta factories, visit the 18th century Church of Santa Trofimena and walk along the Path of Lemons. For some jaw-dropping views, stop by Terrazza dell’Infinito in Ravello.

Head to the hills and check the oldest town in Amalfi Coast, the incredible medieval-style village of Scala, and proceed to the photogenic Atrani, before reaching the famous and energetic Amalfi.

Marvel at the magical Emerald Grotto in Conca dei Marini, before heading to Furore and crossing Fjord of Furore off the bucket list. Continue to Praiano and Positano, the perfect villages to relax by the superb white sand beaches, without forgetting the famous Path of the Gods hike.

• Amalfi Coast tours

See also: Things to do on the Amalfi Coast , Best Amalfi Coast boat tours

16 – Dublin, Ireland

Capital of Ireland, the famous Emerald Isle, thousands of tourists are attracted to Dublin for the legendary Guinness Storehouse, the Irish beer and lively pubs, but the city has much more to offer and has inspired so many artists with its unique beauty.

From James Joyce’s “Ulysses” to the filming location of “Braveheart”, also visit the deers at Phoenix Park, and tour the renowned landmarks, such as the Dublin Castle and the Trinity College.

When in Dublin, make sure to save time for a day trip and explore the stunning surroundings – any Game of Thrones fans out here? There are plenty of  Game of Thrones tours from Dublin available, stopping by the prominent filming locations in the area.

• Dublin tours

See also: Things to do in Dublin , Best day trips from Dublin , Guinness Storehouse tickets price

17 – Florence, Italy

Florence is easily among the best European destinations for art and history lovers. Birthplace of the Renaissance and one of the wealthiest cities during the medieval era, Florence became a top-tier artistic, commercial and political center.

Stroll through the massive Piazza del Duomo, which feels like an open-air museum, and climb to the Duomo’s dome for the most impressive view of Florence.

Discover the home of the Medici Royal Family at Pitti Palace and head to the gothic masterpiece of Palazzo Vecchio.

Florence houses some of the best and most visited museums in Italy, and to make the most out of it, consider grabbing a combined ticket to the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery.

Besides Florence, the whole Tuscany region deserves to be explored (make sure to not miss our list of things to do in Tuscany ). Take a day trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the medieval towers of San Gimignano or relax at the spa town of Saturnia.

• Florence tours

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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

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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!

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Best Cultural Destinations in Europe

Europe is the birthplace of many artists who changed our way of seeing the world and living. Discover the destinations where famous people like Picasso, Leonardo da Vinci, Duchamp, Mondrian, Van Gogh, Monet, Manet, Renoir, Munch, Dali but also some of the greatest writers such as Baudelaire, Shakespeare, Cervantes…. were born and inspired.

You will also discover in Europe the most beautiful landscapes that inspired the most beautiful paintings and decorations that you may have seen in your favourite films. Europe is the only place in the world with so many museums and art galleries as well as tens of thousands of cultural activities to carry out with friends, with family, alone or with your loved one. Find inspiration for your next cultural holiday in Europe in our selection of the best cultural destinations .

  Athens, Greece

Archaeological sites and museums

  Basel, Switzerland

The cultural capital of Switzerland

  Craiova, Romania

Where local artists give color to each urban space.

  Warsaw, POland

UNESCO World Heritage Site, music festivals, street art

  Mannheim, Germany

Mannheim impresses with a host architectural treasures

  Cittadella, Italy

The most beautiful walled city in all of Europe.

  Poznan, Poland

A unique heritage with rich cultural offer

  Copenhagen, Denmark

Art galleries, designers shops, live music...

  Berlin, Germany

The Berlin Wall, museums, events...

  Veszprém, Hungary

The European Capital of Culture in 2023

  Malaga, Spain

An incredibly extensive cultural offering

  Grenoble, France

The leading European street art destination.

  Stockholm, Sweden

Museums, the Royal Palace, designers, art galleries...

Best Museums

The most impressive museums in Europe

  Brussels, Belgium

Grand-Place (UNESCO), museums, events...

  Krakow, Poland

Historic Centre of Kraków - UNESCO World Heritage

  Amiens, France

 An UNESCO World Heritage Spot

  London, england

World Heritage Sites, museums, Royal Palaces...

  Bilbao, Spain

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

  Rome, Italy

Historic Centre (UNESCO), Vatican, museums...

  Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is rich in cultural highlights

  Paris, France

Monuments, museums, architecture...

  Venice, Italy

Venice and its Lagoon - UNESCO World Heritage

  Porto, Portugal

Historic Centre (UNESCO), museums, designers...

  Helsinki, Finland

Design, live music, architecture...

  Florence, Italy

Historic Centre - UNESCO World Heritage

  Oslo, Norway

Design and architecture

  Milan, Italy

Architecture & monuments, theatres, fashion events...

  Gdansk, Poland

Architecture and museums

  Seville, Spain

The largest wooden structure in the world

  Vienna, Austria

Classical music, museums, architecture...

  Gothenburg, Sweden

Maritime heritage, designers, music, architecture...

  Lisbon, Portugal

Chruches, Fado, museums, Manueline-style buildings...

  Bratislava, Slovakia

A perfect destination for culture and history

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Monuments, architecture, Monastery of the Escurial...

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The City of Arts and Sciences

  Oradea, Romania

Admire the Art Nouveau architecture

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Discover cities with a rich historical past

  Barcelona, Spain

Architecture, museums, monuments, events...

  Braga, Portugal

A city of huge beauty and heritage richness

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Historic Centre of Riga - UNESCO World Heritage

  Avignon, France

Historic Centre of Avignon - UNESCO World Heritage

  Bordeaux, France

"Bordeaux, world wine capital"

  Geneva, Switzerland

A world of culture awaits you!

  Manchester, England

The birthplace of the industrial revolution

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Piazza del Duomo - UNESCO World Heritage

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Discover Bavaria's dream castles

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Cultural Landscape of Sintra - UNESCO World Heritage

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Museums, galleries, architecture, Exit Music Festival

  San Sebastian, Spain

European Capital of Culture 2016

  Istanbul, Turkey

Historic Areas - UNESCO World Heritage

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Aachen Cathedral - UNESCO World Heritage

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The Centre Pompidou-Metz

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Architecture, galleries, museums...

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Historic Centre of Prague - UNESCO World Heritage

  Hamburg, Germany

The third largest musical metropolis in the world

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Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor - UNESCO

  Bergen, Norway

Bryggen, the old wharf of Bergen - UNESCO World Heritage

  Plovdiv, Bulgaria

The oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe

  Arles, France

Roman Monuments - UNESCO World Heritage

  Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt's museum embankment, architecture

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30 of the Best Places to Visit in Europe

12/16/2021 by Emily Becker 5 Comments

It’s pretty darn magical that in Europe you can take a road trip starting in one country and within just a few hours end up in another with a whole different culture and language. As an American, this still blows my mind and makes me want to explore more of the continent.

This is a list of some of the absolute best places to visit in Europe, and although it doesn’t include every country, I hope it helps you spice up your own European bucket list:

Table of Contents

30. Braga, Portugal

Most travelers who visit Portugal tend to stay in Lisbon and Porto, which are both incredible cities. However, those who skip the opportunity to visit Braga are definitely missing out on this underrated treasure. Braga is only a 45-minute drive north of Porto and has everything that makes northern Portugal a can’t-miss destination: towering and intricately designed cathedrals, rolling green hills, stunning gardens, and tons of history to uncover.

One of Braga’s most interesting attractions is the Image Museum , which was once a 14th-century medieval tower and now showcases the work of some of Portugal’s most renowned photographers. Also, climb to the top of the staircase at Bom Jesus de Braga to get one of the best views of the city.

29. Lagos, Portugal

Warm sunny beaches, surf hot spots, and a relaxed atmosphere await you in Lagos. One of Portugal’s coolest places, it boasts warm weather all year round, making it a magnet for beach lovers and northern snowbirds. Although it’s a small town, there’s plenty to do, and many travelers report it “sucking them in” with its charm and laid back vibe.

Besides surfing, you can also kayak to search for sea caves or take a tour to see them . Lagos is also known for its marine life, especially the dolphins you can see year round .

28. Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are eight small islands off the coast of West Africa, although they’re technically a part of Spain. Across them, you’ll find a rich diversity of landscapes, food, and culture, making this one of the world’s most unique destinations. The Canaries are also known for having incredible weather: long hours of sunshine with little rain and mild temperatures.

Besides the iconic beaches and lush greenery, you’ll find that this small archipelago is bursting with culture. In fact, this is the only place on earth that has a whistling language, called silbo gomero , which is native to the islands and joins Spanish, Catalán, and other languages spoken here.

Another huge draw is the incredible whale watching, which you can enjoy at any time of year. Various species inhabit the nearby waters at different times of year; you can check them out on a whale watching tour.

27. Granada, Spain

One of the most enchanting places in Spain is Granada, the southern part of the country. Most visitors go to see the Alhambra, aka “Red Palace.” This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 13th century by Moorish rulers and is quite large, covering over 140,000 square meters (35 acres) in three distinct parts.

Because of its size, complexity, and wealth of history, it’s best to tackle the Alhambra with a guide for a day. This guided tour is great because it includes the famous Nasrid Palaces.

Beyond the Alhambra, Granada is full of beautiful architecture and is also known for its impressive gastronomy. Don’t miss out on the delicious Spanish dish called tortillas de Sacromonte , which are unique to the region.

26. Nice, France

Nice is one of those cities that travelers always come back to. It has the essence of a fairytale setting, so it’s no wonder why it’s one of the absolute best summer destinations in all of Europe. After all, it was Henri Matisse’s and other Impressionist artists’ chosen home. Nowadays, Nice has its very own Musée Matisse, which honors him and his works.

Besides being an artists’ haven, Nice is also an incredible gastronomic paradise that’s perfect for a traveling foodie. Try a socca (chickpea pancake), one of the city’s most quintessential snacks. And of course, the French wine isn’t half bad either!

25. Bern, Switzerland

Even though it’s one of the largest cities in Switzerland, Bern has more of a small-town feel. Known as the “city of fountains,” it has dozens of beautiful and strange fountains in the historic center alone (like a 500-year-old one of an ogre eating a child — yikes).

Hang out in Bern’s Old Town, bordered by the Aare River, and check out the medieval architecture paired with quintessential Swiss-style buildings. Start your trip with a historical walking tour to learn more about the city!

24. Cavtat, Croatia

Cavtat is a sleepy Croatian town that has everything that makes this underrated country amazing: a rich cultural history, delightful cuisine, and lovely seaside views. It’s just a 30-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik, but its calm atmosphere makes it feel a world away.

Along the coastal streets of Cavtat, you’ll find adorable cafés, kitschy shops, and plenty of locals hanging out. The region is also known for its wine, which comes from the nearby Konavle Valley.

If you enjoy getting off the typical tourist track, this is a great place to see how locals live and have a more authentic experience.

23. Tübingen, Germany

On any given sunny day, you’ll see people floating down the river in traditional punts against the backdrop of colorful historic buildings — this is the kind of charm you can expect in Tübingen, often referred to as the “eternal student town” because of its robust population of students and professors from the local university.

Tübingen is also home to the Hohentübingen Castle, a structure built in 1037 that has a mix of medieval and modern architecture, and also hosts the fascinating Ancient Culture Museum. Visit the castle, take in the hilltop views of the town, and check out all the adorable cafés downtown. This is one German destination that you won’t want to miss, especially in the Christmas !

22. Frankfurt, Germany

You can expect to find plenty to do in Frankfurt, one of Germany’s largest metropolises. This bustling city is an international hub with a truly cosmopolitan vibe, gigantic museums, quirky cafés, vibrant markets, and much more. Since it’s such a big place, start off your Frankfurt adventure with a private tour to get acquainted .

Because of its location in central Germany, Frankfurt is an awesome place to start exploring the country as a whole. There are tons of day trips from here, like this one to the Hohenzollern Castle .

-READ NEXT-

A Complete Guide to Germany

21. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is the ultimate destination for art and architecture enthusiasts. One of its most famous features is its immaculate café scene. Walk into any traditional Viennese café and you’ll see beautiful decorations, a whole host of fluffy pastries, and lots of locals hanging out.

Vienna is one of the absolute best places to visit in Europe any time of year, but especially during Christmastime. It’s known throughout Europe to have the most extravagant Christmas decorations and celebrations, so a trip during the month of December is ideal!

One of the many wonderful places to explore in Vienna is the Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens, a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture; you can book a tour of it here .

20. Lofoten Islands, Norway

I’m here to let you in on a little secret: the Lofoten Islands in Norway are severely underrated, so you should definitely consider visiting. You’ll find snow-covered mountains, arctic wildlife, and charming towns.

Located inside the Arctic Circle, the islands feature some of Europe’s most stunning, unspoiled nature. They’re perfect for travelers who like to explore the outdoors. Check out this winter kayaking adventure that combines history and nature.

Not to mention, the islands are one of the most amazing places to catch the Northern Lights , from August through October. This is an awesome destination for travelers who love to go where few other tourists go.

19. Isle of Skye, Scotland

Along the highlands of Scotland lies the Isle of Skye, the largest of the Inner Hebrides, at 50 miles long. The jaw-dropping landscapes are the main attraction here, including the legendary “Fairy Pools” and Cuillin Mountain.

There is also an abundance of wildlife, including white-tailed sea eagles, otters, seals, and whales, among other creatures. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of the mythical Loch Ness Monster, whose story originated off the coast of the island.

To see all the magic of the Isle of Skye, consider this three-day sightseeing tour !

18. The Giant’s Causeway, Ireland

Northern Ireland’s coastline is one of the most idiosyncratic landscapes in Europe, with the Giant’s Causeway one of its highlights. Thousands of hexagon-shaped basalt columns, which date back to over 60 million years ago, plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. The legend behind the Giant’s Causeway is that the columns were erected to create stepping stones for giants, hence the name.

As the light changes throughout the day, so does the scenery at the causeway. You’ll see the colors shift from deep green to gray and brown as the sun sets, creating a mystical scene. Plus, the columns are fun to climb and explore.

17. The Cotswolds, England

Just a couple hours from the hustle and bustle of London is a region called the Cotswolds. This hilly area spans central and southwest England and is the perfect destination for travelers who love the outdoors and sleepy little towns. It’s also a favorite staycation spot for Londoners looking to get out of town and connect with nature and the slow pace of life here.

Spend a day or two, or even a couple weeks exploring the farms, hills, and cobblestone streets in one of England’s most charming regions. The Cotswolds are great to visit all on their own, but you can also check them out on a day trip from London .

16. Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is a total paradise at the foot of the Italian Alps. Along the perimeter of this inverted-Y-shaped lake, you’ll find picturesque towns and villages that have an ageless elegance, each with its own character. You can visit as many as you’d like by taking a water taxi across the lake.

The lake often gets a reputation for being extra luxurious and overpriced. However, visiting during low season, from October to April, is a great option for budget travelers who want to avoid high lodging prices. It might be colder during then, but the towns take on a romantic quality in the chillier months.

To get a stunning panoramic view of Lake Como, consider this tour with a cable ride !

15. Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp is bursting at the seams with culture and exciting events almost any time of year, making it one of the more lively destinations on this list. It has a fascinating mix of new and old: slick modern buildings of floor-to-ceiling glass next to classic Belgian architecture. One prime example is the famous Antwerpen Centraal, which has a vintage feel yet houses a collection of shiny, ultra-modern sculptures.

Get a stunning view of town from the top of the Giant Ferris Wheel or kick-start your visit with this neat two-hour bike tour to get the lay of the land.

14. Utrecht, Netherlands

Sure, you’ve heard all about Amsterdam, but have you heard of Utrecht, the beating heart of Dutch culture? Like many cities in the Netherlands, you won’t see many cars in Utrecht. In fact, the city center is almost entirely car free. This is because the Dutch tend to opt for bicycles instead, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to feel like a local by renting a bike to get around.

The Dom Tower is Utrecht’s most prominent feature and you can see it from almost anywhere in town. Utrecht is a college town with tons of museums, landmarks, and sites to see, most notably the peaceful canals that run throughout it.

13. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

This tiny country packs a huge cultural punch as one of Europe’s most diverse cities. Luxembourg City is a melting pot with people living there from over 170 countries and is known throughout Europe to be the most multilingual city on the continent. In fact, regardless of nationality, a majority of the city’s residents are at least trilingual. Polyglots rejoice! This is the city you’ve been searching for.

Another reason to visit Luxembourg is its impressive selection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are four of them in Luxembourg City alone! It’s also one of the safest cities in the world, so you can expect to have a relatively crime-free experience.

12. Sibiu, Romania

If Romania, let alone Sibiu, has flown under your travel radar, you’re not alone. I feel like Romania doesn’t get the travel hype it deserves, although the country seems to be having somewhat of a tourism moment. Sibiu is no exception: recently, more and more travelers are making a stop there to admire the town’s beauty.

Sibiu’s “downtown” consists of the remnants of the medieval center from the 12th century. You’ll find small town squares, towers, stone wall defenses, and ancient-looking buildings and churches. Visiting this idyllic city feels like taking a step way back into the past — in the best way.

Book an awesome tour of the city here.

11. Santorini, Greece

You’ve seen the Insta photos, so surely Santorini has been on your bucket list for some time if you haven’t ticked it off already. This picturesque Greek island is one of the country’s most popular destinations — and it’s no wonder why. Idyllic blue-domed churches, breezy sea views, sparkling sunsets, and colorful beaches all await you on Santorini.

In case you just can’t wait any longer for your slice of Grecian heaven, we’ve got everything you need to begin planning your Santorini getaway with this helpful guide . In it, you’ll find the best hikes, beaches, and other fun must-do activities.

10. Kotor, Montenegro

The vibrant blue water you see in the photo is the Bay of Kotor, a serene place to relax and enjoy the sights of the beautiful medieval city. Wandering through Kotor’s Old Town feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and mystical atmosphere.

Kotor is brimming with old cathedrals and relics from the past, like the Kotor Fortress. You could spend days exploring the city by land and sea. Try this sweet boat tour , which includes a stop at the must-see Blue Cave.

9. Soča Valley, Slovenia

Slovenia’s Soča Valley is home to one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, the River Soča. In some parts, it appears to be bright blue, while in others, it looks more emerald green. With waterfalls, rocky gorges, and canyons along the way, the river is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Many travelers come to the Soča Valley to go rafting, kayaking, and canyoning along the river. Consider kayaking with a guide to learn more about the valley and its history.

The Soča Valley is also the first place to earn the designation “ EDEN ” for its sustainable development of tourism.

8. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the ultimate stop on any European architecture junkie’s bucket list. From Art Nouveau to baroque and neoclassical styles, you’ll find an enchanting variety of buildings to admire throughout town. Between visits to these beloved architectural gems, grab a bite at a traditional Hungarian restaurant to find out why Budapest is one of Eastern Europe’s food capitals.

This sparkling Hungarian city is also famous for its hot springs and bathhouses. One of the most popular is the Széchenyi Spa, which you can book a visit to here .

7. Kungsleden, Sweden

Stretching over 400 kilometers (250 miles) between Abisko and Hemavan is Kungsleden, one of the most famous hiking trails in the world, which adventurers from all over the world visit each year. Between the mountainous birch forests and rugged alpine terrain, you’ll see many wonders of the Swedish landscape on this trail. Along the trail, you’ll also pass by small villages and four national parks: Abisko, Stora Sjöfallet, Sarek, and Pieljekaise. The trail is well marked, making it ideal for any level of backpacker.

Many travelers do the trail in spurts. Whether you’re down for the entire length or just a few kilometers, you’re sure to have a blast exploring it and meeting all kinds of hikers along the way.

6. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen makes this list because it’s considered by some to be the happiest city in the world. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see what all the hype is about? Besides the delightfully friendly locals and world-class cuisine, the Danish capital is home to a wonderful collection of museums, palaces, gardens, and churches.

Like in other small European countries, you’ll see an impressive number of people on bicycles, so consider renting one and joining in on the cycling fun. Even better, take on the city via bicycle tour !

What are you waiting for? Go see why people in Copenhagen are so happy!

5. Helsinki, Finland

If you’re a design and architecture aficionado, Helsinki might be the perfect place for you. Feast your eyes on buildings whose designers have a knack for symmetry and style that you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. In particular, you’ll find one of the largest collections of Art Nouveau buildings on the continent.

Helsinki, like other big cities in northern Europe, has a long-standing sauna culture, which makes the frigid temperatures more manageable for locals and visitors alike. If you don’t mind stripping down in front of strangers, giving a sauna a try while you visit is sort of a rite of passage.

4. Krakow, Poland

Visiting Krakow promises a burst of Polish culture, history, gastronomy, nightlife, and so much more. As one of the country’s most vibrant cultural epicenters, Krakow is an absolute must.

As someone who grew up eating Polish cuisine, this city is high on my list solely because of the incredible food scene. You’ll see very quickly that the local fare is much more than just pierogies and sausages. Street food in Poland is flavorful and authentic, and at the many carts around town, you can try small and large plates.

Krakow is also where you’ll find the largest city square in Europe, Rynek Glowny. This is the absolute best place to start exploring and tasting everything you possibly can. While you’re there, don’t pass up the opportunity to step inside the awe-inspiring Basilica of the Virgin Mary.

3. Tatra Mountains, Poland

I’ve been hearing about the Tatra Mountains for a very long time, which until recently I didn’t know was actually kind of rare. Many travelers to Europe skip Poland altogether, and even more miss the beauty of this mountain range. Since we’re all about the great outdoors here at BMTM, this is one of those places that I have to mention.

The Tatras have long been a haven for backpackers and solo travelers. The area is known as a mini version of the Alps because of the similar landscapes; however, there are far fewer visitors and therefore more solitude in which to enjoy nature. Plus, it’s much more affordable to visit the Tatras. At they are just a two-hour drive from Krakow, consider combining the two for an epic Polish adventure.

2. Vilnius, Lithuania

Maybe Lithuania hasn’t caught your attention yet, but it’s about to. As one of Eastern Europe’s most quirky cities, Vilnius has a charm unlike any other. Teeming with baroque architecture and quaint museums, the country’s capital is beloved by European travelers and intercontinental guests alike.

This city’s rich Jewish heritage makes for a vibrant cultural landscape that outsiders will find interesting and thought provoking; don’t miss out on the Green House Holocaust Museum to learn more about it. Vilnius has also been a haven for artists, who once banded together in the present-day neighborhood of Užupis to declare themselves their own independent republic.

Consider checking out Vilnius’s Old Town on a private tour like this one.

1. Ohrid, North Macedonia

When you look at photos of Ohrid, North Macedonia, you might be surprised to know that this gorgeous destination has yet to become a tourist hot spot. Its narrow cobblestone streets are reminiscent of Italian and French villages, but Ohrid has a flavor all its own. In many ways, this small city feels like a time capsule, with its medieval architecture and old-school flair.

Ohrid is on a magnificent lake in the mountains, and although it’s just a three-hour drive from the capital of Skopje, it feels a world away from the city noise. This incredible location is likely to catch on with European tourists, so visit soon to take in its authentic beauty.

Pin me for later:

I have to admit that I’ve been avoiding traveling through Europe for some time. It’s mostly because I enjoy rugged adventures, and I’ve gotten used to the backpacker’s way of travel. I used to think of Europe as a whole (my first mistake, because it’s so diverse and difficult to generalize about it) as being more of a bougie place to travel. However, there are so many off-the-beaten-path destinations that have become more and more appealing to me.

Have you traveled through Europe? What is your favorite place there?

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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Marcone says

12/16/2021 at 10:00 pm

I enjoy this blog so much.

12/19/2021 at 10:09 am

I enjoy this list. In the part about the Isle of Skye, you mention that the Loch Ness Monster story arose off the shore of the Isle of Sky;e. I believe that story belongs to Loch Ness, not the Atlantic Ocean.

12/26/2021 at 1:32 pm

You are correct Denny. I think what happened is the three day tour mentions Island of Skye and Loch Ness together. On day 2 you explore beautiful Isle of Skye and but then day 3 they go elsewhere They go that day into Scottish Highlands and see Loch Ness and maybe “monster spotting” and this is where the story originated. Other lakes and rivers have legends too of monster like creatures. Did you know there are dozens in the US alone. Even in a river in my home state not too far from my home.

12/26/2021 at 1:45 pm

Also Denny instead of the tour it could also be in reference to the Storr Loch monster that WAS in Isle of Skye. It was real. A 170 million or so old Jurassic era skeleton fossil discovered in 1966 and verified in 2016. Google “Storr Loch”. Very interesting. Scotland’s real Loch monster! Not Loch Ness so keep hunting but really cool.

01/10/2022 at 9:39 am

Love this list! And hands up for Kotor and the Soca Valley.. can’t wait to go back ?

More From Forbes

The 20 best european destinations in 2024: marbella tops travel survey.

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A classic view in Marbella's old town, Malaga, Spain

Based on the vote of more than one million travelers from 172 countries, the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization has released its list of the 20 trendiest places — selected from 500-plus — to be awarded the title of "Best European Destinations 2024."

With a record number of votes, Marbella, Spain, lands at the top of the list, the first time that a Spanish destination takes first place in the ranking. “It is the destination most voted for by American and English travelers for a stay in Europe in 2024,” EBD explains. “This is a sunny, five-star, natural, sporty, gastronomic destination with everything to please the most demanding travelers.”

Marbella is followed by Monaco, Malta, Geneva and Batumi (Georgia) in the first five places.

Selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth in popularity on social networks and their international recognition (smart tourism, European Union Green Capital, UNESCO , Blue Flags...) the 20 most-voted sites will be promoted throughout the year and are authorized to display the coveted title of "European Best Destination 2024."

Working since 2009 to promote sustainable tourism, and in partnership with some 500 tourism offices in Europe and the European Commission’s EDEN Network , (Awarded Sustainable Destinations), EBD also organizes other tourism competitions in Europe , including Best European Christmas Markets, Best European Beaches , Most Romantic destinations and Best European Ski Resorts .

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“Exclusive destinations are back on track,” said Maximilien Lejeune, CEO of European Best Destinations. “Also, we notice a new trend towards off-the-beaten-path, smaller destinations such as Ponza, Porto-Vecchio, Cap Ferret, Sirmione and the Faroe Islands for simple convivial holidays.

With award-winning destinations like Monaco, Marbella, Malta, Geneva, Madeira, Florence, Riga and Batumi, we clearly see a desire for exclusive travel in destinations recognised for the quality of their offers and services.”

EBD’s rankings show that “travelers want to enjoy culinary, cultural, sensory and sporting experiences and prefer destinations combining beach, outdoor activity, nightlife and discovery in complete freedom, without plans or constraints.”

1. Marbella, Spain

Marbella, European Best Destination 2024

This year's winner is a destination that drew 149,192 votes, a record since the creation of this competition, placing Marbella not only as the trendiest of European destinations but also as one of the best Golf Destinations in Europe as well as one of the best for gourmets and shopping addicts.

“Wherever golfers choose to play, they will enjoy top-class golf courses, many of them with panoramic views of mountains and the Mediterranean,” writes EBD.

“Take a gastronomic tour of this food-loving Andalusian city that can cater to any craving – and delivers views and vibes to boot, with three Michelin-starred restaurants, plus hundreds of smaller eateries dishing up everything from Mediterranean and Thai to paella and succulent local tapas, great food is a major part of Marbella’s allure.”

With more than 300 guaranteed days of sunshine per year, al fresco dining by the beach or beneath the stars is practically guaranteed.

Monaco, Street view from the Old Town

This year's #2 destination, Monaco , was shortlisted as a Sustainable Destination for its commitment to sustainable tourism and protection of the ocean.

“Monaco has been focusing on green development for many years and the destination continues to expand and honor its commitment to nature,” says EBD. “It is seen as a perfect destination for a green getaway combining wellness, gastronomy, shopping, beach, water activities and outdoor sports.”

It’s the favorite destination for couples ages 25-45 and the destination on the Riviera which has garnered the most votes since the creation of this competition, ahead of Cannes and Nice.

A unique destination, Monaco reflects the perfect marriage between glamour, culture and relaxaation. Renowned for its security, it also surprises with the richness of its history.

“Gastronomic delights, cultural and sporting events, exceptional nightlife, shopping experiences, pampering spas…the most eclectic dreams come true on these two square kilometres place,” EBD explains.

The organization recommends Monaco for a romantic stay, a family trip or a getaway with friends because it has a “diversity of the hotel offerings to meet all expectations.”

With its Oceanographic Museum, Prince's Palace and breathtaking panoramas — where the green of the gardens blends with the blue of the Mediterranean — Monaco-Ville, at the heart of the Principality, offers pleasant strolls among the fishing boats and prestigious yachts.

“Head to Place d’Armes: Riviera colors and flavors are guaranteed. Take time and taste local specialties such as barbagiuàn, socca or pissaladière,” EBD advises. “Discover the legendary Place du Casino where the Café de Paris, an institution of the Principality, and the iconic Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo are located.

A few steps away, the Larvotto seaside complex reveals its beach, its shaded promenade, its shops and its restaurants to relax in summer and winter with your feet in the sand.”

Malta, Third Place, European Best Destinations 2024

Sunny Malta , appears as a perfect place for romantic holidays, family holidays or holidays with friends. It’s also a nature destination awarded the sustainable-tourism label several times by the European Commission and has taken the number one position for travelers ages 25-45 on the prowl for an active holiday in Europe.

Malta, Gozo and Comino offer stretches of countryside and stunning coastlines. “Wherever you go, the scenery and architecture provide a spectacular backdrop with the striking honey-colored stone of buildings facing the deepest of Mediterranean blues,” EBD says.

With year-round favorable climate and an array of underwater sites, Malta is consistently voted one of the best diving destinations in the World.

Malta’s culture is a unique blend of influences from various civilizations that have inhabited the islands over thousands of years, from the prehistoric megalithic people, to the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Knights of St. John.

The country is also European Best LGBTQ+ destination and has been #1 on the Rainbow Europe Map for seven consecutive years.

The other two islands — Gozo and Comino — can be a pleasant change of scene or alternative destinations in themselves.

4. Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva, European Best Destinations 2024

Geneva is the most-voted Swiss destination since the creation of this competition. It’s also the destination with the Best Quality of Life in this European ranking.

Nestled in the heart of Europe, surrounded by awe-inspiring nature, the city hugs the tip of the largest alpine lake in Western Europe, with the majestic Alps and Jura mountains in the backdrop. Rolling vineyards, dotted with picturesque villages, envelop the city.

Switzerland’s second-largest city, Geneva is a mix of historical charm and vibrant culture. It proudly hosts the European Headquarters of the United Nations and Les Eaux-Vives public beach with the iconic Jet d’Eau and lively ambiance.

Beyond its diplomatic significance, Geneva is celebrated for its world-renowned watchmaking and a delectable chocolate tradition. Discovering Geneva is a journey through the country’s largest Old Town, dining in top-notch restaurants and practicing outdoor activities. Recent additions to its tourist attractions include the family-friendly Science Getaway and the indulgent Choco Pass, a self-guided chocolate tour.

5. Batumi, Georgia

Batumi, European Best Destinations 2024

Batumi is becoming one of the best-awarded destinations in Europe. It ranks among the Leading Destinations in the World by the prestigious World Travel Awards and has now been voted by worldwide travelers as one of Europe’s five Best Destinations to visit.

Safe, green, friendly, perfect for a romantic, wellness or gastronomic getaway, Batumi is the trendiest destination 2024 for the best sensory experiences in Europe at the best price.

This year, it received more votes than London from US travelers in the EBD competition and is one of the safest places on the continent — safer than Paris, Milan, London, Berlin and most of the European capitals. (Batumi has twice less criminality that a safe destination like Vienna.)

Here, history rubs shoulders with cosmopolitan modernity and untouched nature in the beautiful Adjara Region. For lazy days on the beach, exciting nightlife, romantic stays, adventures with friends and family, wellness and culinary riches, Batumi is described as “a real sensory journey.”

The Adjara Region offers a perfect stay off the beaten track, with affordable prices and well-preserved authenticity. Thanks to its year-round subtropical and mild climate, Batumi features a remarkably green environment. It houses a 19th-century Botanical Garden rich in rare species and the city is surrounded by three National Parks recently recognized by UNESCO as World’s Natural Heritage sites.

The architecture of the city was designed by European architects in the 19th century when Batumi became a port city called “Porto Franco” (free port). For that reason the city is home to diverse cultures and religions, where Christian Orthodox, Catholic and Armenian churches, mosques and synagogues have lived in harmony throughout the centuries.

Batumi has a remarkable mix of beautiful scenery with sea and high mountains, ancient cultural monuments, monasteries, medieval bridges, lakes and authentic villages to travel back in time, alongside cutting-edge architecture.

The European-style squares and streets, world-brand hotels and old city cafes have turned it into a cultural hub hosting major European events, international artists, art exhibitions and global sports championships. In addition to its legendary hospitality, Batumi also has excellent wines and a mostly undiscovered cuisine.

6. Riga, Latvia

Riga, Latvia, European Best Destinations 2024

Riga is the perfect destination for a city break on a human scale, with events throughout the year, shopping, gastronomy, nature, art nouveau architecture. A travellers' favourite destination for the Baltics and the favourite for young travellers aged 18-25 who want to discover Europe with the best quality-price ratio.

The most cosmopolitan of the Baltic capitals, Riga , capital of Latvia, is a modern city with a historical heart. Riga’s old historical town center has UNESCO World Heritage status with its winding paths and well-hidden streets surrounded by Romanticism, Gothic and Baroque testimonials alongside the views of the modern city.

Rich building facades can be admired at the Art Nouveau district as a third of the houses in the city center are genuine pearls of that style. Architecture, theaters, art galleries, outdoor events, a luxurious Opera House, various music halls, independent cinemas, and a contemporary art scene are among the cultural offerings.

Cozy cafes or fancy restaurants on every corner in the city center offer food menus that are a combinations of local and world cuisine emphasizing seasonal and local products. Riga is home to the best coffee roasters in the Baltics, and of a number of home-grown quality breweries.

At the age of 822, Riga is far from feeling old. The city's youthful spirit is well enjoyed at any of the street food festivals and other creative and urban events held throughout the year.

Only thirty minutes from the city center is the beach, surrounded by forests and breathtaking landscapes.

7. Madeira, Portugal

Open air market. Madeira, Portugal

In addition to its unique scenery and verdant mountains, the Madeira archipelago offers a mild climate all year round, a warm welcome, safety and security.

Madeira, like Marbella, Monaco and Geneva, counts among the exclusive destinations attracting discerning travellers for decades. Winston Churchill made Madeira his Best Destination in Europe, as have today's digital nomads, surfers, nature lovers, foodies, instagrammers, wine lovers and outdoor sports lovers.

“To really get to know Madeira, climb to the top of a mountain and enjoy breathtaking views or follow the trails and paths in the Laurissilva Forest along more than 1,400 kilometers of Levadas (irrigation channels or aqueducts) in a unique encounter with the island’s soul,” EBD advises. “Experience the special ambiance of Funchal’s streets and purchase some of the famous Madeira embroidery, wine or wickerwork.”

For energetic visitors, there’s scuba-diving, surfing, windsurfing or jet-skiing, whereas most romantic visitors may prefer a sailboat trip along the coast to enjoy the sunset.

To make the best of the visit, EBD recommends spending time on the island of Porto Santo, 40 kilometers from Madeira, 15 minutes by plane or 2 1/2 hours by ferry. Known as the “golden island,” Porto Santo offers nine kilometers of fine sandy beaches.

8. Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy, European Best Destinations 2024

Like Rome , Venice or Paris , Florence is an open-air museum. It’s here that travelers encounter Michelangelo’s David sculpture and Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus" at the Uffizi Gallery

Then there are the facades of the awe-inspiring basilicas and cathedrals that form the city’s unmistakable skyline, the lavish palaces telling stories of various periods of the city's history, from the birthplace of the Renaissance to the capital of Italy and all the way through to the first half of the twentieth century when Florence became a hub for the avant-garde.

“Florence's museums and the magnificent works housed in them are a trip into the history of a city and its treasures,” EBD writes, “a cultural imaginary that has contributed to the creation of Western civilization as we know it, and laid the foundations for the aesthetic, educational, scientific, culinary, political and artistic principles that surround us today.”

Florence is a romantic and beautiful city for gourmets that can be discovered on foot, with no other plans than to wander around its narrow streets...and marvel. It’s surrounded by nature and Tuscan villages with their renown wineries.

9. London, United Kingdom

King Charles in London, European Best Destinations 2024

This year, the crown for best offbeat city break goes to London , the capital of abundance.

With a multitude of atmospheres and neighborhoods like Carnaby for shopping, Notting Hill for romantic strolls, Portobello for the flea market, Camden for the punk and libertarian spirit, the West End Theatre District and its legendary musicals, the gay and sparkling district of Soho, Chinatown, emblematic places like Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, the London Eye, Tower Bridge, the Shard and great parks such as Kew Gardens, Greenwich and Hyde Park — one becomes breathless at the infinite reasons to visit.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, European Best Destinations 2024

The capital of Iceland, land of the Vikings, coastal Reykjavik is the country’s largest city, renowned for the exceptional environment surrounding it, resplendent with volcanoes, hills and the geothermal Blue Lagoon spa near the village of Grindavik.

Reykjavik is home to the National and Saga museums tracing Iceland’s Viking history and the striking Hallgrimskirkja church and rotating Perlan glass dome that offers sweeping views of the sea and nearby hills.

With some 130,000 inhabitants, Reykjavik is an exemplary, human-sized European capital with a rich cultural life, vibrant nightlife, large sporting scene and exceptional music — according to EBD, “a city to restart, recharge, refuel.”

The city also fields a large range of local and international cuisine, with national specialties — notably, seafood and lamb or fermented shark) — and more than 40 vegan and vegetarian restaurants.

In August, Reykjavik proudly celebrates Gay Pride, raising the LGTBQ+ colors since 1999.

“Reykjavik, the perfect destination for open-minded travelers who love wide open spaces and non-standardized destinations,” EBD aptly enthuses.

11. Lège-Cap-Ferret, Nouvelle Aquitaine, France

Cap-Ferret, France, European Best Destinations 2024

Lège-Cap-Ferret is reminiscent of ‘authentic’ holidays. Simplicity, sharing, open-air markets, impromptu concerts, bike rides, an aperitif on the beach...this is France’s southwestern legendary conviviality.

“Take walks or bike rides, join the nearby café, visit the lighthouse and admire the Pilat dune (the largest in Europe), taste oysters in the neighbouring oyster village or take a short sea trip with an oyster farmer,” EBD recommends.

Here, everything has the taste of summer holidays, from the fresh fish to mouth-watering ice cream and the white wine accompanying the seafood.

There are no shopping centers, just a small boulevard lined with fashion boutiques with pretty linen dresses and shirts to take home as souvenirs of an unforgettable French holiday.

The Arcachon Bay is a jewel once prized by the nobility for the quality of its pure air that combines sea and pine. The Arcachon basin offers an incredible architectural heritage and beautiful villas in different styles.

Cap-Ferret is a destination that the French would prefer to keep to themselves, not yet so well known to international travelers, with a lifestyle combining simplicity, good food, comfort and conviviality.

12. Siena, Italy

Siena, Italy, European Best Destinations 2024

The heart of Tuscany, probably one of the most beautiful regions of Italy , provides an alternative to go “off piste” and travel through time.

An area rich in medieval villages, breathtaking landscapes, historic buildings, nature hikes, wine tasting, olive oil and many more delicious local products.

Surrounded by nature, Siena is one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Italy , its historic centre declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.

“One could come to Siena for the beauty of the "Piazza del Campo" alone when it hosts spectacular horse races in July and August,” EBD notes. “Climb to the top of the "Torre del Mangia" one of the symbols of Siena and admire the Piazza and the whole city from above. If you are an art enthusiast, be sure to visit the Palazzo Pubblico which houses masterpieces of Siena's art golden age.”

Not far from Siena is Buonconvento, declared the most beautiful village in Italy , and Monticiano with its natural reserves and Rapolano Terme with the best spas in Italy.

Siena is more than a trip. Rather, it’s an experience, and a romantic destination made for lovers, art, theater, nature, food aficionados and families.

13. Ponza Island, Italy

Ponza Island, Italy, European Best Destinations 2024

This small Italian island with an area of only seven square kilometers and just a few thousand inhabitants is located off the coast of Rome and Naples and was, until recently, a well- kept secret by the richest Italian families.

With its festive atmosphere, simplicity, contrasting colors, designer boutiques, coves and beaches, Ponza is usually compared with Saint Tropez in the 1960s and 70s.

“The best way to enjoy the island is to rent a boat or take a water taxi and discover the most beautiful coves, beaches, caves and natural pools such as Cala Feola to the West,” EBD reports. “There are superb panoramas from the top of the cliffs of Ponza such as the Maria Rosa Cliffs.”

Ponza is beautiful any time of the year but September until mid-October is undoubtedly best.

14. Porto-Vecchio, Corsica, France

A view over the port of Porto-Vecchio in Corsica, France

A destination of rare beauty and also far from the madding crowds, Porto-Vecchio, a port town on the French island of Corsica, is a superb choice. With a 16th century Genoese citadel as the backdrop to the old town and with views over the yacht-filled marina, shops, bars and restaurants, it also has some of the most beautiful beaches in France , including Santa Giulia and its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand of Palombaggia and its umbrella pines to rest in the shade under their sweet scent.

Porto-Vecchio combines the charm of an old Croatian or Montenegrin town with the beauty of a Tahitian lagoon a few kilometers away.

Porto-Vecchio is the promise of an unforgettable gastronomic, cultural and visual experience. “Too much lazing at the beach? EBD asks. “Meet the wine growers, the women and men who cultivate the land to give you wines of character. Immerse yourself in the heart of the maquis and be transported by the smell of Mediterranean plants. If the beautiful heritage of Porto-Vecchio thrills you, take your time to explore its Genoese citadels, Romanesque chapels or prehistoric villages.”

15. Champagne Wine Region, France

Champagne, wine region, France, European Best Destinations 2024

For many years, the Champagne Wine Region has been a popular destination for travelers hunting for unique experiences combining gastronomy, outdoor activities, heritage and, in this case, bubbly.

The landscapes of the Champagne vineyards are worth visiting most of the year, their colors ranging from light green in spring to fiery red in autumn. Here, nature rolls as far as the eye can see and reveals the secrets of the wine of kings and king of wines.

From Epernay, one of the region’s capitals, to Dormans, located along the meandering Marne River, this unique land produces some 200 million bottles of champagne, nestled in 100 kilometers of tunnels dug in the chalk bellow.

“During your stay, you can board a balloon to enjoy a glass of champagne and a 360-degree view of the vineyards,” EBD writes. “Other villages in the region like Hautvillers, the cradle of champagne and known worldwide for the famous Dom Pérignon, and Reims, the other capital of Champagne, houses producers such as Demoiselle, Taittinger and Veuve-Cliquot and also a spectacular cathedral.”

And it’s all just 1 1/2 hours from Paris.

16. Faroe Islands

Faroe Islands, Denmark, European Best Destinations 2024

An autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands are an archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, formerly the private turf of a few travelers passionate about ornithology or hiking.

Today, the Faroes attract visitors searching for authenticity, well-preserved nature, spectacular landscapes, dramatic steep cliffs populated by thousands of sea birds and natural fountains flowing into the sea.

The archipelago is very well connected by road, tunnel, ferry and bridge.

Given its location, the weather is extreme. Best to visit in spring or summer. It has earned its slogan: "Discover the islands, discover yourself."

Discovering the 18 Faroe islands means uncovering a destination that has experienced isolation for centuries and has therefore preserved its traditions, authenticity and natural habitat.

17. Sirmione, Lombardy, Italy

Sirmione, Lombardy, Italy, European Best Destinations 2924

Sirmione is the icing on the cake of Lombardy, a region in Northern Italy.

An unusual destination, Sirmione on Lake Garda is a place that many would prefer to keep secret.

A 12th century medieval castle, partly submerged in the blue waters of Lake Garda, is one of the city’s landmarks. Only a one-hour drive or a two-hour train ride from Milan-Bergamo airport, Sirmione is one of the most beautiful secret destinations in Italy .

Stroll through the castle’s dungeons and the tower and enjoy magnificent views of the city or lose yourself in its medieval streets and discover the best of Lombardy. There are beautiful small beaches such as “Spiaggia Lido delle Bionde” for swimming in the lake.

18. Piran, Slovenia

Piran, Slovenia, European Best Destinations 2024

Piran is known as the most beautiful little town in Europe and undoubtedly one of the most photogenic. Piran is located in Istria, a Slovenian region renowned for its vineyards and gastronomy close to Italian as well as for the beauty of its crystal-clear waters and nature.

Along with Portoroz and Koper, Piran is a primo Slovenian seaside resort. Called the ‘City of Love’, Piran seduces with its narrow town streets, the beauty of its facades and the picturesque sights of the Mediterranean.

Discover the Venetian architecture, the ancient city walls, the Monastery of St. Francis and participate in the harvest of the famous Piran fleur de sel. Dive into the underwater world and discover that the stars are also visible in broad daylight at the wonderful Pira aquarium.

Take an e-bike and explore the Slovenian Coast on a tour that combines local cuisine and beautiful beaches or try homemade premium extra virgin olive oil in the small village of Marezige.

During your stay, you can visit the picturesque Slovenian capital Ljubljana (one hour by car) and treat yourself to a day trip to Venice facing the beautiful town of Piran.

19. Newquay, Cornwall

Newquay, Cornwall, UK, European Best Destinations 2024

Newquay is one of the best hidden and beautiful seaside resorts in the U.K.

Also awarded the title of Best family Holiday Destination in England , it’s often compared to Biarritz in southewest France, or to a city in Australia, with its feet in the ocean.

Newquay is the surfing capital of England, offering relaxation and conviviality around a shared meal or an impromptu concert, as well as a destination for a romantic getaway in Cornwall, with its many spa hotels and à la carte restaurants ,

The countryside offer cozy lodges featuring hot tubs and log burners and there are many surfing schools to learn the sport or rent equipment. Newquay also offers golf, cycling and go-karts among its attractions. If traveling with family, don't miss a visit to the "Trenance Valley"with a free play park, the Newquay Zoo, a miniature railway, a swimming pool and a trampoline park.

20. Thassos, North Aegean Sea, Greece

Thassos, North Aegean Sea, Greece, European Best Destinations 2024

Where exactly to go in beyond-legendary Greece ? To Athens ? or Santorini ? These two destinations are often described as overrun by tourism.

There’s a little corner of lost paradise, though, that Greeks prefer to keep for themselves with a natural lagoon, Marble Beach, that offers a stunning contrast with its turquoise blue sea, enlivened by a warm welcome from the locals.

“Have a few lazy days at the beach,” EBD recommends, “then climb the mountains to meet the inhabitants of Panagia or Kazavati. They will welcome you with open arms.”

Thassos is an adventure in an earthly paradise.

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Top 15 Best Cultural Destinations in Europe

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Looking for the top cultural destinations in Europe? Read further and learn about it!

With more than 50 countries and thousands of years of history, there is no shortage of incredible experiences waiting for you. Europe is a traveler’s dream, from bustling city centers filled with art, architecture, and vibrant culture to picturesque villages nestled in stunning landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an educational exploration, here are some of the best European cultural destinations you won’t want to miss.

From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the ancient ruins of Rome, each European city offers something unique and exciting. Explore the charming canals lined with colorful houseboats in Amsterdam, bike through Vondelpark, or check out some world-famous museums such as Rijksmuseum. In Barcelona , enjoy La Boqueria market and Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces throughout the city. And don’t forget Vienna, where you can admire imperial palaces, drink coffee at one of its famous cafes and experience its rich music scene.

For more off-the-beaten-path destinations, try exploring Baltic cities like Tallinn or Riga, full of medieval charm and cobbled streets. Or head north to Scandinavia, where Norway ‘s fjords are breathtakingly beautiful, and Stockholm is rich with art galleries and museums. Of course, if rural landscapes are more your thing, then visit Ireland’s lush green rolling hills dotted with castles and old churches or head south to Italy’s picturesque Amalfi Coast for stunning views overlooking crystal blue water.

No matter what kind of cultural experience you are looking for, something special awaits you throughout Europe’s many incredible cultural destinations. So don’t wait any longer – explore what this diverse continent offers!

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Do you need help planning your trips? Start here!

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Table of Contents

Top 15 Cultural Destinations In Europe

Rome, italy.

Rome is an open-air museum, unlike many other European cultural cities like Paris . It is said that Europe’s history and cultural development led to the Roman Empire with Rome at its heart. Thus, one can only understand Europe ‘s history when one visits the city.

Among the best cultural places to see are the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the gardens of Villa Borghese, and the Vatican City. By strolling around the city, one can understand how it shaped global civilization and brought Roman culture to other parts of the world.

Plan your trip with my top post about Rome:

• Top 24 Things to do in Rome (Italy)
• Top 10 Best Day Trips from Rome (Italy)

Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao is undoubtedly among the top cultural places to visit in Europe . One of its cultural attractions is The Guggenheim, among Europe’s best museums, including one of the continents’ best sculptures, Maman by Louise Bourgeois, and a Franco-American artist. While immersing into the cultural vibe, one can enjoy dining in common and high-end restaurants serving authentic Spanish cuisine.

Plan your trip with my top post about Spain :

• Spain Bucket List: 10 Best Things to See, Eat, and Do
• 10 Best Party Destinations in Spain For the All-Nighters
• 10 Food in Spain Every Traveler Needs to Try
• 10 Most Beautiful Destinations to Enjoy Autumn in Spain

Paris, France

Paris is known as the City of Light not only because of its lighting extravagance but because of its influence on the flourishing of arts and culture. Here, one can find world-famous paintings such as the Impression of the Rising Sun by Monet and the Monochrome by Yves Klein. Of course. ‘

No one should miss the mystical Mona Lisa painting at the Louvre Museum, one of the most famous museums in Europe. Paris is one of the best cultural trips Europe hosts.

Plan your trip with my top post about Paris, France :

• Top 22 Things to do in Paris (France)
• Paris Itinerary: How to Spend Three Days in Paris (France)
• Top 10 BEST One Day Trips from Paris (France)

Florence, Italy

Dubbed as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence ranks among the most frequented cultural places to visit in Europe. Artists love to come here to see the most famous artworks, such as Michaelangelo’s magnificent David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.

Then there are Duomo’s sublime paintings. It is also an ideal getaway for couples due to the city’s romantic vibe . Churches also abound for those who wish for spiritual communion.

Plan your trip with my top post about Florence, Italy :

• Top 17 Things to do in Florence (Italy)
• Top 10 Best Day Trips from Florence (Italy)

Basel, Switzerland

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Basel in Switzerland is a multicultural city due to the influx of different nationalities in recent years. It’s no wonder it offers an innovative and cosmopolitan vibe that reflects an authentic Swiss quality population.

Here, tourists can find different buildings designed by world-famous architects. These buildings portray the historical and cultural heritage of the city. Among the architectural masterpieces to visit are Frank O. Gehry, Herzog & de Meuron, and Mario Botta.

Plan your trip with my top post about Switzerland:

• Top 10 BEST Places to Visit in Switzerland
• Top 10 BEST Castles in Switzerland
• Christmas in Switzerland: 11 Best Christmas Markets in Switzerland

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

The Acropolis, Greece

Considered one of the most stunning and brilliant Greek monumental complexes, the Athens Acropolis is a beauty to behold. One could imagine how this ancient landmark survived after centuries of wars, pillages, fire, and natural calamities.

It’s truly astounding, and historical aficionados could not help but explore this attraction. Strolling around would make them feel and experience the richness of Greek civilization, including how famous philosophers like Aristotle shaped young minds.

There’s not only one ancient building in the complex but at least seven of them are in good condition. One can also have a mesmerizing view of the city and its surrounding landscapes from the complex.

Plan your trip with my top post about Greece:

• Top 14 Beautiful Castles in Greece
• Top 15 Places to Visit in Greece

Despite being a small island in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta played an important role in shaping European culture and history.

It has been an important trading post for many vessels from different countries. It has been a bridge for various nationalities.

During the wars, it also played a part and preserved Europe’s Christian legacy. Today, visitors can enjoy many of its cultural and historical landmarks, including medieval cathedrals and museums.

They can also trek to the interior to explore its forests and mountains. Of course, some beaches are the most beautiful in the region. Many of these beaches have stories to tell, especially about pirates and conquests.

Plan your trip with my top post about Malta :

• Top 13 Things to do in Malta
• Top 16 AWESOME Places to Visit in Malta
• Top 9 Stunning Castles in Malta
• Top 10 Day Trips in Malta

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the thriving capital of predominantly Catholic Hungary and a cultural and historical haven. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Hungary has witnessed significant events that shaped modern Europe.

It may be a small country , but the Hungarians bravely resisted and repulsed nomadic invasions and maintained the spiritual integrity not only of the country but the entire continent. Stroll around the city, and tourists will find numerous churches and museums that reflect the locals’ spirituality and devotion to arts, good food, and music.

They also have numerous restaurants that serve authentic cuisines with variations from different regions. Budapest is now dubbed as one of Europe’s top-rated cultural holidays.

Plan your trip with my top post about Budapest:

• Top 25+ FUN Things to do in Budapest (Hungary)
• Top 5 BEST Thermal Baths in Budapest that Locals Go to! (Hungary)
• BEST 3 Days in Budapest Itinerary (For First Time Visitors)
• Where to Stay in Budapest, Hungary

Athens, Greece

Athens has bred some famous ancient philosophers and thinkers like Aristotle. It also saw the rise of various civilizations that dominated the ancient world. Despite many wars, the city was able to preserve many of its ancient structures and cultural heritage attractions, such as the Parthenon.

Strolling around the city would give tourists a feel of how the Greeks blossomed into a powerful force during the olden times. Athens is now considered one of the best cultural destinations in Europe .

• Top 10 Things to do in Athens (Greece)
• Top 9 Best Day Trips from Santorini (Greece)

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is considered one of the top cultural places to visit in Europe due to its wide array of relevant attractions, including the globally acclaimed Sagrada de Familia church. The church remains under construction until now, but the imposing view and breathtaking designs continue to lure tourists and locals alike. Of course, the city is now a blend of history and modernity.

But it remains a crucial spot for many preserved buildings and landmarks that date back thousands of years. Check out the many city cafes to learn more about its culture or frequent its numerous museums. The city is also a popular pilgrimage site for devout Catholics, owing to its many churches and monasteries.

Plan your trip with my top post about Barcelona, Spain :

• Top 22 Things to do in Barcelona (Spain)
• Top 10 BEST Things to do in Barcelona Gothic Quarter
• Top 10+ BEST Day Trips from Barcelona (Spain)

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

Venice, Italy

Venice attracts millions of tourists annually due to its immense historical and cultural attractions, making it one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Who would not know its world-famous canals that crisscross cathedrals, museums, and many buildings dating back to medieval times?

The city also spurred musical development in Italy ; thus, it earned the title Republic of Music. Among the iconic attractions here are the Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark’s Basilica, San Giorgio Maggiore, Doges Palace, Teatro La Fenice, Ponte di Rialto, and Scuola Grande di San Rocco. To make the most of Venice’s experience, try a gondola ride down one of the canals.

Plan your trip with my top post about Venice , Italy:

• Top 20 Things to do in Venice (Italy)
• Top 10 Best Day Trips from Venice (Italy)

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Netherlands may be a small country with a low-lying elevation, but it remains a cultural hub in Europe. People from different countries have been migrating to Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, thus, expect different cultures. It oozes various interests in photography, architecture, theatre, art, film, dance, and music.

Thus, it is sometimes referred to as the Venice of the North. Canal Belt , West Church, Wandel Park, Begijnhof, and Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam are the must-see destinations. The city also holds a cultural festival or event almost every other week.

Plan your trip with my top post about the Netherlands:

• Top 11 Things to do in Amsterdam (The Netherlands)
• Top 10 Day Trips from Amsterdam (The Netherlands)
• Top 9 Must-See Castles in the Netherlands

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one of the top cultural places to visit in Europe . It has impressive royal palaces and a jaw-dropping Ferris wheel that suit adventurous guests and locals alike. Check out the local palaces to enjoy an evening of waltz and princesses. And don’t miss one of the best Art Nouveau attractions in Europe called The Kiss by Klimt.

Plan your trip with my top post about Austria :

• Top 10 Things to do in Vienna (Austria)
• Christmas in Austria: 15 Best Christmas Markets in Austria
• Top 15 Pretty Castles in Austria to Visit

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is one of Europe’s best beach and culture holidays. It’s one of the most romantic cities in Europe and one that brims with culture and history. From stunning architectural landmarks to vibrant nightlife and mouthwatering dishes, Lisbon truly captures every expectation of different kinds of tourists.

The top attractions are the Ancient Art Museum, Sao Jorge Castle, Maritime Museum, Modern Art Center, Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Carmo Convent, Martim Moniz, and Jeronimos Monastery.

The locals also celebrate the Festa de Santo Antonio, one of the city’s biggest events. After immersing in the cultural destinations, beach bums can also enjoy the city’s numerous beaches .

Plan your trip with my top post about Portugal :

• Top 10 Things to do in Lisbon (Portugal)
• Top 15 Places to Visit in Portugal
• Top 10 Beautiful Castles in Portugal to Visit

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

London is one of the best cultural holidays Europe has to offer. Check out the British Museum, which ranks among Europe’s best museums, including the Tate Modern. Then there’s the famous Tower Bridge, among the continent’s Seven Wonders and the most iconic landmarks in the world.

London has also been ranked among the Best Flea Markets in Europe, Best City Parks in Europe, Best Destinations for Sales in Europe, and Best Shopping Cities in Europe.

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Art & Culture Travel Blog

20 archaeological sites you have to visit in europe.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar
• Cultural Tourism

Besides visiting museums, one of the best ways to learn about local history and culture while travelling is by exploring the archaeological sites. Since there are so many of them around Europe, I asked some of my fellow travel bloggers to share with me their favourite places. And we’ve created this list of 20 archaeological sites you have to visit in Europe for you.

Archaeological sites you have to visit in Europe

#1 – capitolium & roman forum in brescia, italy.

The Capitolium Temple, together with the Republican Sanctuary and the Roman Theatre that form the rest of the archaeological complex in Brescia, are some of the best-preserved ruins in northern Italy.

The main temple, the remains of which can still be explored today, was built in 73 AD by the Roman emperor and founder of the Flavian dynasty, Vespasian. Standing prominently in ancient Brescia (then Brexia), the temple was damaged in 462 AD when Attila the Hun destroyed Brescia along with Verona , Bergamo, and Vicenza, and was then buried by a landslide. The temple wasn’t rediscovered until an 1826 excavation. Today, a portion of the main façade, courtyard and columns still stand.

Underneath the temple, you’ll find the oldest structure in the complex, a very well preserved Republican sanctuary. It was built in 1st century BC and was buried in 73 AD when the Capitolium Temple was built on top of it. The fact that it was buried for so long kept it very well preserved over the centuries. The sanctuary has been excavated and restored, but still has the original mosaic floor and the frescoes on the walls, which is incredible given how long ago it was built!

The last structure you can visit is the Roman Theatre, found east of the Capitolium building. As one of the largest theatres in northern Italy, the theatre could house up to 15,000 spectators in its prime. It was severely damaged in an earthquake but has since been restored and is lovely to explore and visit.

The Capitolium can be found on Via dei Musei, very close to the Brescia’s city centre and the Castello di Brescia. Tickets to visit all three sites are 8 euros and can be purchased online or from the ticket office on site.

Ioana from The World Is My Playground

#2 – Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy

Palatine Hill is one of the most ancient sites in Rome and was one of the most desirable places to live in Roman times. Standing forty metres above the Roman Forum on one side and the Circus Maximus on the other, it is the most famous of Rome’s seven hills.

Emperor Augustus was born and lived there, in House of Augustus, one of the best-preserved buildings on the hill, together with his wife’s House of Livia. Other Roman Emperors lived on the Hill too, in Domus Augustana, a vast palace that was built in two levels.

Palatine Hill is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, where you can relax while you stroll and discover this historic site. If you have at least two days in Rome , Palatine Hill is a must-visit. Highlights you must not miss are the Domus Flavia, an area used for public functions, the Temple of Cybele, the centre of a fertility cult, and the impressive Stadium, which was part of the imperial palace.

The Hill can be accessed from the Roman Forum, from Via dei Fiori Imperiale, or from Via di San Gregorio. Admission to the Palatine Hill is included in a combined ticket that also includes the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

Teresa from Brogan Abroad

#3 – Acropolis in Athens, Greece

A  visit to the Acropolis  should be on every culture lover’s travel bucket list. Possibly the most important site in ancient Greece, it looms large in the imaginations of people living the world over.

Rising high above Athens, you can see the Parthenon atop the Acropolis from all over the city. Other interesting sites on the Acropolis include the Propylaia, the Erechthion, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Ancient Greeks have been using the site since 5000 BC, though the most famous buildings here were erected during the age of Pericles, which has been given the nickname the “Golden Age of Athens,” during the 5th century BC. Astonishingly, the Parthenon was built in just ten years.

When you visit, make sure to buy a skip-the-line ticket if you plan on visiting during the high season, especially from June through August (though it can be crowded even in April and October).

You’ll also want to make sure you spend time visiting the Acropolis Museum, which is the dedicated museum that houses the artefacts that have been recovered from the Acropolis. Preserving them here keeps them from being damaged by weather, and you’ll also learn great historical context to the items as you walk around the building.

Stephanie from Sofia Adventures

#4 – Roman Baths in Bath, England

Although Bath looks like a classic English town on first glance, it houses one of Europe’s most beautiful ancient ruins. Located about an hour and a half west of London by train, the city’s famous Roman Baths are an incredible archaeological site worth visiting.

The Roman Baths, known as Aquae Sulis in ancient times, date back to 70 AD and represent the blending of the religion and customs of the Romans with the Celts. The Baths served primarily as a social gathering spot for the Romans, and over time became known for its healing powers.

The Roman Baths would become one of the most sought-after baths outside of Italy. Even the future Queen Anne made a  trip to Bath  during the late seventeenth century in the hope of curing various ailments, namely gout. Today you can head next door to the Pump Room for a glass of this water, which contains 43 minerals.

Thought to be one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, the Baths have been excavated to show us a picture of what daily life would have been like in those early days. A museum has been built around the ruins to give visitors an even clearer picture of what Roman life would look like. The Roman Baths are open daily to visitors, except on December 25th and 26th, and are open as late as 9:00 p.m. in the summer. Visiting in the evening could be a nice romantic experience.

Theresa from Fueled By Wanderlust

#5 – Baths of Caracalla in Rome, Italy

Some of Rome’s most fascinating ruins, the Baths of Caracalla are also a working archaeological site. They were built in the 3rd century AD and were used for over 300 years by the people of Rome as their primary public bathing facility. In their prime, the baths could accommodate 1,600 bathers who enjoyed three main bathing chambers, open-air swimming pools and gardens as well as a huge public library. It was a huge site built with millions of bricks and comprising of at least 252 columns.

An earthquake in 847 destroyed the baths, but they are the most significant Roman bathhouse ruins to survive the centuries. Today you can visit the site and admire the elaborate mosaics, sculptures and frescoes that once adorned the bathhouse. For the best experience, be sure to pick up a virtual reality guide from the information centre. This impressive virtual reconstruction of the site will help you visualise the remarkable scale of the baths in all their glory. It’s also interesting to watch the archaeologists at work uncovering new treasures at the ancient baths.

The Baths of Caracalla are just a short walk from Circus Maximus, with the closest metro stop being Circo Massimo.

Katy from Untold Morsels

⤷ Read more about some things to do in Rome in my blog post here

#6 – Zaragoza, Spain

Zaragoza is a city located in north-eastern Spain, with a history dating back thousands of years, to the “Caesaraugusta” period – over 2,050 years ago. It’s easy to visit from Barcelona or  Madrid to Zaragoza by train,  and visit it on a day trip.

Although the city is famous for its street art, square in the old town with its famous fountain and Basilica, it also has one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Europe. Its rich Roman history is definitely one of the biggest surprises in the city.

Zaragoza is home to two archaeological sites that could be visited. The first one is Roman theatre ruins at Museo del Teatro Romano de Caesaraugusta. And the other one is the forum museum, Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta, where visitors can see the excavated remains of the city right under the main square of modern-day Zaragoza. It looks like there is an entire city just beneath today’s city structure.

Mikkel from Sometimes Home

#7 – Vindolanda, England

Vindolanda was a Roman fort town south of the eastern section of Hadrian’s Wall in northern England. It was occupied for about 300 years and was the residence of Roman soldiers, their families, and supporting services.

Two excellent museums of Roman artefacts are located near the site. The Roman Army Museum features several exciting finds, including the only surviving Roman Army helmet crest. The museum also plays a 20-minute film dramatizing what life was like for soldiers on the northern frontier of the Roman Empire.

At the Vindolanda ruins, you can see archaeologists digging at the extensive site. The site is quite broad and deep. It’s estimated that, at the current rate of excavation, the site won’t be uncovered entirely for more than 100 years. Because many of the artefacts were buried more than six meters deep, they were found in a remarkable state of preservation due to the lack of oxygen.

The museum at Vindolanda conserves and displays such finds as Roman shoes, armour, jewellery and coins. Perhaps the most interesting are wooden writing tablets. Among the tablets is the earliest known example of a woman’s handwriting – a birthday party invitation from one Roman noblewoman to another.

Tom from Travel Past 50

#8 – Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge is one of the best-known archaeological sites in Europe and is visited easily as a day trip from London .

Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most famous attractions in the United Kingdom. The Stone Circle is believed to have been constructed during the Bronze Age. There are still many questions regarding the construction and the purpose of the stones.

At the Stonehenge Site, there is a visitor’s centre with a museum dedicated to the history of the stone circle, archaeological objects discovered on the site, and what life was like during the era in which Stonehenge was constructed. There are also Neolithic houses nearby the visitor’s centre, where you can learn about what life was like over 4,500 years ago. From the visitor’s centre, there is a shuttle that will take you to the Stone Circle.

Stonehenge can be visited either through a guided tour or via public transportation. If you’re visiting Stonehenge from London, you can take the train from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury. From Salisbury, there is a Stonehenge Tour Bus (£16 for adults) that will take you directly to the site. This bus is a hop-on-hop-off style bus that will also take you to various locations around Salisbury.

Sydney from A World In Reach

#9 – Glanum, France

Just outside the beautiful town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence in  Southern France lies the remains of another ancient city, Glanum. This Roman town dates back to the 2nd century BC, but it lay hidden mainly after being abandoned in 260 AD until excavations began at the beginning of the 20th century.

What archaeologists discovered after thousands of years of neglect are today some of the most revered historical sites in Provence. The city wears evidence of many changes of rule, and these styles of architecture overlap to create the spectacle you’ll visit today. You will find the remains of both Hellenistic and Roman settlements clearly visible, and the effect is mesmerising. Walk down the ‘main street’ with its covered drains still trickling with water, visit the thermal baths, gaze up at the twin temples and peer into the various caves and wells. The entire site doesn’t take long to discover – around two hours will suffice – but it’s a joy to witness such grand artistry and delve into this ancient civilisation for a brief moment in time. Visit in spring, and you’ll be rewarded with an even more colourful scene as the entire town is punctuated with blossoming trees.

There’s a modest fee to enter (€8 for adults), but it’s free for children, which means visiting Glanum as a family won’t break the bank. Just be warned that you will need to pay for parking unless you walk a small distance from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The reception staff will equip you with a map in your language so you can make your way around the site at your own leisure, or you can purchase an audio guide for 3 euros. On-site facilities include a small museum, gift shop and café.

Nadine from Le Long Weekend

⤷ Read more about places related to Vincent van Gogh in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

#10 – The Neapolis Archaeological Park of Syracuse, Italy

The Neapolis Archaeological Park of Syracuse is one of the most important sites of Ancient Greek history in Italy. Located in the south-east of Sicily, the large park contains a well preserved Greek amphitheatre (5th – 3rd century BC) which is still used today for theatrical events. There are many ancient quarries in the park, including the Ear of Dionysius, a cave-like space where visitors can recreate the echoes of prisoners once held captive there by the Emperor Dionysius.

There is a less well preserved 2nd century Roman amphitheatre which was partly destroyed by the Spanish who used the stone to build the city of Ortigia. Also of interest is the huge sacrificial altar of Hieron II dating back to the 3rd century BC.

The park is, without doubt, one of the  highlights of visiting Syracuse . It is two kilometres north-west of Ortigia (the historical heart of the city) and can be reached from there by public transport or car, and parking is available close by. The archaeological park is open daily while the nearby Museo Paolo Orsi (10 minutes walk) which contains many artefacts from the park, is closed on Mondays.

Annabel from Smudged Postcard

#11 – Brú na Bóinne, Ireland

Brú na Bóinne is a group of ancient passage tombs and monuments in eastern Ireland that showcase the architectural ingenuity, artistic endeavours, and sacred ceremonies of the people that settled near the River Boyne during the prehistoric period.

The archaeological complex consists of an impressive collection of megalithic art, numerous ceremonial sites, and some sizeable grassy mounds concealing tombs older than the Egyptian pyramids. The three largest passage graves are Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, but only Newgrange and Knowth can be visited with a guided tour.

During a tour of the passage graves, you can see engraved kerbstones and peer down long passageways leading into the tombs. At Newgrange, visitors even get to go inside the tomb’s chamber and discover its astronomical alignment. The site also has a visitor centre with informative exhibits, including a full-scale replica of the interior of Newgrange and a Neolithic house.

Brú na Bóinne is located about 40 km north of Dublin , in County Meath, so can easily be visited as a day trip from the city . The closest communities are the village of Donore and town of Drogheda.

Rhonda from Travel? Yes Please!

⤷ Read more about Brú na Bóinne on a link here

#12 – Minoan Palace of Knossos, Greece

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Knossos, is located on the Greek island of Crete, 5 kilometres from Heraklion. It was the centre of Minoan civilisation, and the first settlers lived there as early as the Neolithic period. At its peak, it hosted around 100,000 people. Knossos was abandoned at around 1,380–1,100 BC.

One of the most famous legends about the place is related to Minotaur. He was depicted as a half-bull, half-man monster living in a maze. A young prince from Greece came to Crete and had to fight Minotaur. The daughter of the local king Minos fell in love with the prince and gave him a ball of yarn before he went into the labyrinth. So the prince could find his way out of the maze after he had killed Minotaur. The labyrinth of stone walls and the painting of a bull in Knossos strongly resemble this legend.

Currently, the Palace of Knossos is available for visitors. The first excavation of the site was started in 1878, and the restoration has continued since then. Tourists can enjoy the impressive multi-story building fragments which reveal the imposing palace of the past. There are enormous columns, staircases, and a maze of walls. It’s possible to go on a self-guided tour or join a group with a guide at the info centre. There are several other archaeological places nearby that can be included in a  road trip day in Crete .

Una from Wandernity

#13 – Herculaneum, Italy

Not far from Naples, in the shadow of Vesuvius, you’ll find one of Europe’s best archaeological sites. The Roman town of Herculaneum was destroyed by the same volcanic eruption that buried Pompeii, but in a different way. While Pompeii was buried in rocks that destroyed the roofs of its buildings and almost everything above the ground floor, in Herculaneum the town was hit by a 100 mph storm of superheated ash and poisonous gas.

What that means for visitors to Herculaneum is that the site is far better preserved than Pompeii. Many houses still have their upper floors, and even wooden balconies and shop fittings have survived. Even better, although the excavations at Herculaneum are far smaller than the site at Pompeii (much of the ancient town is buried under modern Ercolano), Herculaneum receives only ten per cent of Pompeii’s visitor numbers, meaning that it’s possible to visit and have its atmospheric streets almost to yourself.

There’s a small museum at Herculaneum, and you can hire audio guides. However, it’s good to read as much as you can about the site before your visit. Visiting Herculaneum is also easily combined with climbing Mount Vesuvius. Seeing the still-smoking crater, then  visiting Herculaneum  is a perfect day exploring one of the most impactful archaeological sites in Europe.

Helen from Helen On Her Holidays ​

#14 – Pompeii, Italy

Of the archaeological sites in Italy, Pompeii may be the most morbidly fascinating. Located 242 km south of Rome, Pompeii was once a thriving ancient metropolis with about 20,000 residents. Today, it’s a well-preserved ghost town that gives tourists and archaeologists alike a glimpse into the lives of those who lived there thousands of years ago.

Pompeii is situated at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, which is still an active volcano. When it erupted in 79 AD, Pompeii was buried under nearly 12 meters of ash and lava. While bad news for the residents then, the effect was that Pompeii was frozen in time until it was rediscovered in 1748.

Today visitors can wander down its eerie cobbled streets and explore former homes and businesses. There are two main theatres that you can visit, as well as the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatre in the world. Tourists can even marvel at several of Pompeii’s famous human plaster casts.

The easiest way to get to Pompeii is via train from Rome’s Termini Station. Take the high-speed train to Naples, and from Naples take the Circumvesuviana train to the Pompeii Scavi station.

Maggie McKneely from Pink Caddy Travelogue

⤷ Read more about Pompeii on a link here

#15 – Cenobio de Valerón on Gran Canaria, Spain

Cenobio de Valerón on the Spanish island of Gran Canaria  is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Europe. The island is located on the north-western coast of Africa. The fact that the island has so much to offer in terms of history, nature and weather, makes it all the more an attractive destination for discovering ancient sites.

The Cenobio de Valerón, also known as the Caves of Valeron or Monastery of Valeron, is an ancient complex system of caves. The caves are located on the northern part of the island in the Municipality of Santa Maria de Guia, directly on the cliff.

In short, it is the largest pre-Hispanic collective granary (with 298 compartments and 350 storage places). It was actually built before the Roman era. However, the natives of the islands used the caves until the late 15th century, right up until the island got conquered. The incredible size of these caves just demonstrates the historical importance of the islands’ agriculture.

Michelle Minnaar from Greedy Gourmet

#16 – Roman Forum in Zadar, Croatia

Built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD under the directive of the first Roman emperor Augustus, the Roman Forum in Zadar is the largest one in Croatia. Zadar was a Roman settlement from the 1st century BC until the 5th century AD when the Roman Empire fell. Viewing the remnants of the once-magnificent forum is one of the most  exciting things to do in Zadar , especially if you love architecture, history and culture.

Only discovered in the 20th century, the ruins show the layout of an impressive space that was the centre of public life during Roman times, much as it was in Rome. One intact pillar at the site is reported to have been used as a pillory in Medieval times. You can see the remains of columns and walls. Interestingly, some of the stone from the Roman structures was used in later construction, such as in the Medieval Church of St. Donatus.

At the site, there was an impressive temple built to honour Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. You can see the remains of columns from the facade of the temple. To learn more about the Zadar Roman Forum, and to see a scale model of the forum in all its glory, visit the nearby Archaeological Museum. It is only a 3-minute walk away, and the admission fee is modest.

Dhara from It’s Not About The Miles

⤷ Read my Ultimate Croatia Travel Guide on a link here

#17 – Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Cyprus

If you’re looking for a truly fantastic collection of archaeological sites all in one convenient place, you absolutely cannot go wrong with a visit to the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, which is one of the  best places to visit in Paphos, Cyprus .

This archaeological park is home to numerous ruins dating from the Hellenistic to the early Christian period and is an excellent place for both history buffs and classics geeks to explore. While the park houses numerous impressive sites including ruined churches and bathhouses, an ancient Odeon and Forum, the most famous and well-known artefacts are undoubtedly the collection of Hellenistic-era mosaics. Scattered around the ruins of important villas, the mosaics display scenes from Greek mythology, beautiful designs, and some simple depictions of everyday life.

The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park is located in the centre of Old Paphos and entry into the area is €4.50 per person. To see everything that is encompassed in the area, plan to spend at least two hours exploring. Keep in mind that there is little shade in the park, so it is best to bring lots of water, especially if you’re visiting in the summer months.

Maggie from The World Was Here First

#18 – Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome, Italy

The Colosseum and the Roman Forum in Rome are world-renowned and indeed so impressive and historically significant to deserve their fame. They are located in the heart of the modern city, and they sit side by side in what is now one of the most famous archaeological parks in Europe open to the public.

The same ticket allows you to visit both, but entrance rules differ: the Colosseum operates a timed entrance system with mandatory booking, while the forum runs on a first-come-first-served basis.

The Roman forum is the most ancient of the two sites and dates back to the very origins of Rome and Republican times. Ruins here are not particularly well signposted, but audio guides are available at the ticket booth. They are invaluable to understand the site and much-needed support in an otherwise beautiful but user-unfriendly attraction! The most impressive ruins here are the temple of Antonino and Faustina and the emperors’ palaces on the Palatine Hill, immediately above the forum and accessible from it

The Colosseum is better equipped: you can visit with a guide (audio or tour), but it also has good info panels and exhibitions which help to dig into the history of the amphitheatre. If you can, get a tour with access to the upper tier: the view from it is stunning!

Marta from Mama Loves Rome

#19 – Delos, Greece

The archaeological site of Delos is one of the most significant in the whole of Greece due to its sheer size and range of architecture and artefacts found. Not only was the whole island a holy sanctuary, political centre and major trading location, but it was also the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and features a temple to Zeus.

Delos allows visitors to delve into history by looking at excavated sites such as the House of Dionysus, the Temple of the Delians and the Terrace of the Lions. Archaeologists believe that the site has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium BC, and it is absolutely fascinating to witness the scope of the remains and piece together an image of what life would have been like here centuries ago!

Located in the heart of the Cyclades, just next to Mykonos island , Delos is easily accessible, which makes it an absolute must as a day trip from Mykonos or Naxos. It’s recommendable paying the little bit extra to get a tour guide for your time in Delos as the scale of the island is quite overwhelming and you’ll learn so much more by having a professional guide you around the site. The island features a small museum, café and information point.

Chrissy from Travel Passionate

#20 – Nîmes, France

In ancient times the city of Nemausus, now known as Nîmes, was located on the Via Domitia, which was one of the first Roman roads built in Gaul. Nîmes was a significant city due to textile production and as a thoroughfare to the rest of Roman Gaul. It reached its peak in the 1st century AD during which its two most noteworthy sites were constructed, Maison Carrée and the massive Arènes, or Amphitheatre.

These are both important archaeological sites and they are in excellent condition and still in use today. Maison Carrée is located at the centre of the city and is described as the only entirely preserved temple of the ancient world. Meanwhile, the two-story-tall Amphitheatre was one of the largest in Roman Gaul capable of seating more than 23,000 spectators. Other Roman archaeological sites to visit include Porte Auguste, Porte France, and Tour Magne.

Lastly, be sure to venture just outside the city to visit a true masterpiece of ancient architecture, Pont du Gard. It is an ancient aqueduct also built in the 1st Century AD to carry water over 50 km to the Nemausus. Pont du Gard is the highest of all Roman aqueduct bridges and one of the best-preserved. Together with Pont du Gard, archaeological sites of Nîmes are designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Harvey from My Normal Gay Life

Have you visited any of these archaeological sights in Europe? Would you add any to our list? Let me know in the comments below!

Archaeological Sights , Archaeology , croatia , france , Greece , Ireland , Italy , spain , UK

Culture Buffs: Visit These Top European Destinations

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The cheapest month to visit las vegas (& budget tips), america's deadliest lake is also one of its most beautiful.

The third most populous continent in the world is home to the most diverse travel destinations , as it is rich in cultural legacy and has something to offer to every type of traveler. Europe has also produced many great minds who have changed people's perspectives on life and the world.

Architectural wonders, exquisite artwork in museums and galleries, historical landmarks, street art, and many more things can be found in Europe's cultural hotspots. Visitors can also view Europe's stunning scenery, which has inspired some of the continent's most popular artwork. There are also several cultural events to enjoy with family, friends, and others. As a result, listed below are Europe’s top cultural destinations:

10 Athens, Greece

Athens is regarded as one of the oldest cities in the world and philosophy’s birthplace. It was named after the Greek Goddess, Athena, who was renowned as the “Goddess of Wisdom.” The Greek capital has also been known for being at the forefront of culture with a lot to offer from wonderful gastronomic pleasures, a growing art scene, creative vibes, and explosive nightlife. Must-visit attractions here include the Acropolis of Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora of Athens.

RELATED:  Athens: How A Goddess Victory Created Greece's Popular City

9 Plovdiv, Bulgaria

The Bulgarian capital, Plovdiv , is well-known as one of the world’s most ancient inhabited cities. It is a hub for cultural interaction as it hosts a slew of not just national, but also international, festivals and events. Plovdiv was appropriately named the “European Capital of Culture” in 2019, as it transports every visitor into the past with its ancient monuments such as the Ancient Forum with Odeon, the 2nd century Roman Stadium, the Old Town, and the 1st-century theatre.

8 Craiova, Romania

Craiova is well-known for its wonderfully historic structures, such as the Ion Oblemenco Stadium, the Craiova Musical Fountain, and the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Demetrius. Aside from that, it is also visited because of its green areas, including Nicolae Romanescu Park. It is Eastern and Central Europe’s most expansive Natural Park, with over 800 hectares of greenery. Furthermore, the museums in the city contain treasures and antiques varying from Constantin Brâncuşi's works to a woman’s skull, which is approximately 30,000 years old.

7 Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam is popular for being a modern and highly globalized metropolis that is constantly recreating itself. There is no chance visitors will become bored when strolling around the city, with its gleaming skyscrapers, a great harbor, food markets, prominent museums, and fantastic festivals. For visitors interested in architecture, attractions such as De Rotterdam, the Erasmusbrug, the Markthal, and the Rotterdam Central Station are must-see sites. Furthermore, the Cube Houses are also remarkable and popular for visitors.

RELATED:   Robots Are Working As Bag Handlers At Rotterdam Airport

6 Basel, Switzerland

Basel is an undeniably cosmopolitan and innovative city , thanks to its mixture of international residents and Swiss excellence. These characteristics are reflected in Basel's numerous noteworthy structures, many of which were designed by well-known architects. There are 40 museums in the city, covering a wide range of topics and special exhibitions. It also hosts Art Basel, the world's most prestigious contemporary art fair. In addition, the Old Town, along with the Town Hall and Marktplatz, as well as the charming town of Solothurn, are must-see destinations.

5 Poznan, Poland

Poznan, Poland's fifth-largest city, is situated midway between Berlin and Warsaw and has a diverse cultural offering, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Billy Goats and the majestic Renaissance Town Hall may be found in the Old Market Place, which is one of the must-see landmarks in the area. Poznan's massive medieval-style castle, which was built in the early 20th century and is Europe's newest fortification, may also amaze visitors. Malta Festival, the International Ice Sculpture Festival, Ethno Port, and the International Henryk Wieniawski Violin Competition are among the international events held here.

4 Copenhagen, Denmark

A visit to Copenhagen would be incomplete without learning about the city’s rich history. Copenhagen's cultural events and art will provide visitors with a sense of the city's history, artwork, and traditions. Following the battles of 1660, when Denmark was unable to defend its southern borders, the Church of Our Saviour became an important part of the country's transition to absolute monarchy, making it a must-see destination. The Copenhagen Opera House, St. Alban's Church, the Thorvaldsens Museum, and the Chirstiansborg Palace are among the other sights to see.

RELATED:   10 Ways To Spend A Perfect Weekend in Copenhagen

3 Berlin, Germany

Berlin holds a unique fascination due to its vivid history and dramatic developments over the last two decades. Visitors to the city are not just interested in Berlin’s culture and history, but also in the residents’ way of life. The richness, contrasts, and almost limitless possibilities of the city continue to pique the interest of people from around the world. Must-see sights are Pergamonmuseum, Topography of Terror, East Side Gallery, Memorial of Berlin Wall, the Charlottenburg Palace, and many more.

2 Malaga, Spain

Malaga is a one-of-a-kind European destination that combines traditional with modern, and culture. The Roman Theatre as well as the Old “garum” Pools takes visitors to Roman Hispania. On the other hand, the “Alcazaba” is a stunning symbol of Muslim dominance that is still standing up to this day. For visitors who want to learn more about the Catholic Monarchs’ Reconquista, a visit to the Sanctuary of Victory is a must. Furthermore, other must-visit attractions include Malaga Cathedral, Plaza De La Constitucion, Museo De Artes Populares, and the Picasso Foundation.

1 Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm's archipelago is often recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, having much to offer to its visitors. It is a fun cultural location to visit, with historic ancient towns, castles, galleries, and museums, as well as architecture, music, and art. The city houses one of the most prominent palaces in Europe, which is the Royal Palace. Meanwhile, the Vasa Museum is one of the attractions no one should miss when visiting the city. Other attractions to explore include the Gamla Stan, Moderna Museet, and Nordic Museum.

NEXT:  How To Plan Your Stay In Sweden's Stockholm

20 Best Places to Live in Europe

Find world-class dining, a great work-life balance, and a vibrant culture in these European destinations.

In 2022, more than 75,000 Americans moved to Europe . The Netherlands, for example, saw an increase from 15,500 to 24,000 Americans moving in over the last five years, while Spain’s American expat numbers jumped 13 percent, from an estimated 20,000 to nearly 34,000 in the same time frame, according to statistics from the European Union .

Be it for the food and culture, the lower cost of living, or personal opportunity, a move to Europe can offer a lot in terms of life-changing experiences. 

“I moved to Spain in 2018, and since then, my life has been filled with exploring new places, meeting new people, learning about local cultures, and uncovering hidden gems,” said Nadia Podrabinek, founder of WhyThisPlace.com . “Barcelona, my home since 2018, is, for me, the best place to live in Europe. This vibrant city strikes a perfect balance between urban hustle and beach town relaxation. The local cuisine, a gastronomic extravaganza, will delight your taste buds with delicacies like tapas, paella, and the world-renowned Catalan cava. Art lovers will be entranced by the city's architectural marvels, from the whimsical designs of Antoni Gaudí to the contemporary art showcased at MACBA. And let's not forget the friendly locals — the Catalans — who will welcome you warmly into their community.” 

Where else in the continent should you consider relocating? Here are 20 of the best places to live in Europe.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has experienced a tremendous boom in tourism over the last few years, hitting a record high in 2023 . The country was also named the best place to retire in Europe in 2023 , thanks to its relatively low cost of living, ease of acquiring visas, and many fantastic beaches that residents can explore up and down its magnificent coast.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria's capital city, is also having its moment in the limelight, thanks to new hotels like the Rosewood Vienna , as well as studies like The Economist’s annual Global Liveability Index, which named Vienna the most livable city in the world . It came out on top due to its excellent health care system, infrastructure, and rich culture. 

Madrid, Spain

Madrid is yet another European capital to make several “best of” lists, including ranking fourth in  Euromonitor International 's compilation of best urban destinations. It’s highly regarded thanks to its high safety index score and vibrant culture, which is filled with superb food, sites, and plenty of dancing through the night.

Zurich, Switzerland

Yes, Zurich is expensive, but it more than makes up for it with an easy-to-access health care system, delicious food, and more ways to spend time outdoors than almost anywhere else on the planet. It was also deemed the third most livable city in the same study that named Vienna as number one. 

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki’s art scene is, without question, top-notch, and that may be reason enough for some to move there. But if you’re a parent, you’ll have more of a motive when you discover the city was named one of the best places to live for families in 2023 . It ranked highly as a result of its large number of parks and low child care cost, making it an ideal location for families seeking a new adventure.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is another city on our list that may seem expensive from the outset, but it has consistently ranked toward the top (if not at the top) of Monocle’s list of the world's best cities for quality of life. Specifically, the publication calls out its large number of green spaces, focus on sustainability, and ease of health care.

Munich, Germany

Munich was named the fourth best city to live in on a 2019 list by HR consultancy Mercer , and as the number one most livable city in the world in Monocle’s 2018 Quality of Life Survey . Time and time again, lists note its stellar public transit, access to health care, museums, and ease of reaching an airport as reasons it's such a great place to live.

Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia has become a major player for digital nomads. The tech-forward nation has excellent visa options for those looking to live and work abroad. Specifically, the cultural hub Tallinn ranked as the 11th best place for expats in the 2022 global survey by InterNations .

Dublin, Ireland

Looking for another cool spot to call home? Consider Dublin . Smithfield in the city was ranked the second-coolest neighborhood by Time Out in 2023 .

Milan, Italy

Those looking for a stylish place to live and work need not look further than Milan. Arguably the fashion capital of the world, it more than delivers on good taste. It was also named as the best city to live in Italy in Il Sole 24 Ore ’s 2020 list .

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has plenty to offer those who seek culture, great food, and streets that are designed for walking and biking. It also made an appearance as the fifth best place to live in Time Out ’s 2022 list , scoring high marks for its arts community and dating scene. “Amsterdam is, without a doubt, one of the best places to live in Europe, particularly for expats. With people from more than 170 countries represented here, you'll have no trouble finding a social life and community that fits your needs,” Kyle Kroeger, a content creator behind ViaTravelers.com , shared with T+L. “Dutch culture also greatly values green spaces, as well as maximizing child happiness. The country has consistently been ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world.”

Read More: How to Spend One Perfect Day in Amsterdam

Liverpool, United Kingdom

While much of the United Kingdom can be considered a desirable place to live, Liverpool has the stats to back it up. The city was named one of the top 10 most desirable places to live in the U.K., according to a 2023 survey, thanks to its increasing home value and local diversity.

Marseille, France

Another chic European destination to consider living in: Marseille. The French city by the sea is home to Cours Julien neighborhood, which also made its way to Time Out ’s coolest neighborhoods list in 2023. As the publication noted, it’s a hotbed for food and wine lovers, plus home to art galleries galore.

Edinburgh, Scotland

In 2023, Totaljobs released its first Quality of Living Index , which surveyed thousands of users, and named Edinburgh as its number-one choice for places to live in the United Kingdom. The historic city nabbed the top spot thanks to its relatively lower cost of living and access to endless cultural destinations.

Prague, Czech Republic

The Czech capital was listed as one of the 10 best global destinations for those looking to move abroad in InterNations' 2021 Expats Insider survey . It made its way to the top thanks to both its cost of living and first-rate work-life balance.

Athens, Greece

Athens, the capital of Greece, has always been known as a historic and cultural hub. And because of that, it's made its way to a number of “best of” lists, too, including the 2023 Europe’s Best Cities Report and Livability’s 2020 100 Best Places to Live .

Vilnius, Lithuania

In 2020, Lonely Planet named Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, as one of the top 10 places to live for expats . The reasons? It fast internet connectivity, high number of coffee shops, art, and tech scene.

Oslo, Norway

Norway is consistently ranked as one of the safest places to live in the world , and Oslo, the capital city, offers both that peace of mind and access to world-class dining, museums, and an excellent public transit system.

Bern, Switzerland

Switzerland is chock-full of top-notch places to live, including Bern, which was named the best city for expats in 2015 due to its beautiful outdoor destinations, wildly good air quality, and access to health care.

Valencia, Spain

Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, was crowned the number-one city to live in as part of InterNations' 2022 Expat City Ranking . And that’s no surprise to Patricia Palacios, cofounder of España Guide . “Located on the Mediterranean coast of the Iberian Peninsula, the beautiful city of Valencia boasts more than 300 sunny days per year with mild winters and warm summers. Moreover, the city is home to two urban beaches with fine golden sand to make the most of its awesome weather,” she said. “The list of Valencia’s charms goes on and on. From its picturesque old town to the lush riverbed park with the neo-futurist City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia is definitely a feast for the eyes.” 

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11 of the Best Beaches in Europe for a Coastal Escape

By Nicole Kliest

The best beaches in Europe don’t disappoint. With thousands of miles of diverse coastline, Europe is home to some of the most spectacular beaches on the planet. Nearly every country offers some sort of coastline, meaning the likelihood of finding a stretch of sand that suits your preferences is certain.

Looking for crystal-clear water cradled by golden sand? Head for Italy ; several regions such as Sardinia , Puglia , and Sicily all boast these traits. In search of an undiscovered surf spot? Consider Denmark with its unlikely (and beautiful) beach scene known as ‘Cold Hawaii.’ Or perhaps limestone cliffs and striking rock formations are more your speed: Portugal is great for that.

Whether along the turquoise-hued waters of the Mediterranean or the crashing waves of the Atlantic, the best beaches in Europe are nothing short of dreamlike. Ahead, 11 standouts to add to your bucket list—plus, where to stay when you’re visiting.

Torre Sant’Andrea, Puglia, Italy

While the Amalfi Coast gets the lion’s share of fame when it comes to the Italian coastline, further south in Puglia lies some of the country’s most pristine stretches of sand and rock. If you prefer the latter, head for Torre Sant’Andrea to admire the beach’s dramatic rock formations and intensely turquoise waters before jumping in from a short cliff. While there’s not much sand here to lay out on, the flat rock surfaces serve as a scenic alternative for your towel and beach bag.

Where to Stay: Just 20 minutes southeast of Torre Sant’Andrea, the Montekore villa by The Thinking Traveller sits on twenty acres of organic farmland. It can accommodate eight guests and features sprawling gardens, a picture-perfect pool, and countless scenic nooks for leisurely reads and afternoon spritzes.

Praia Dona Ana, Algarve, Portugal

The region of Lagos is known for some of the Algarve’s best beaches , including Praia Dona Ana. Characterized by golden limestone cliffs and sands, this sheltered beach is perfect for snorkeling or a languid day under an umbrella, good book in hand. Break up your afternoon with a stroll to see the imposing rock formations, sea stacks, and caves, and consider renting a kayak to explore the coastline even further.

Where to Stay: What was once an abandoned estate by the sea is now Casa Mãe , a bright and cheery boutique property in Lagos with a farm-to-table restaurant sourcing from local artisan suppliers, including their own garden complete with 200 chickens for in-house egg production.

Reynisfjara, Iceland

This black sand beach is likely the most popular in the entire country—and for good reason. The setting is, in a word, striking. From the basalt columns that seem etched into the cliff sides to the towering sea stacks located offshore, it’s a dramatic setting. At low tide, you can explore the small caves and coves dotted along the shoreline while keeping an eye out for seabirds such as puffins and guillemots during the nesting season (around May to August).

By Madeline Fass

By Calin Van Paris

By Maria Goldbach

Where to Stay: Let the travel gurus at Black Tomato curate your South Iceland itinerary for you, including a stay at Hotel Ranga located just an hour away from the beach. This luxurious country lodge straddles a river and each suite is decorated in a distinct style to reflect one of the seven different continents.

Kaputaş Beach, Antalya, Turkey

Located between the towns of Kaş and Kalkan and reached by descending a long staircase, this breathtaking beach has all of the Mediterranean’s best traits on full display. Its undeveloped aesthetic offers a natural and unspoiled experience, with the turquoise sea flanked by steep, rugged cliffs. Swimmers and snorkelers will also take delight in the rocky formations arranged around the beach’s clear waters, and sunbathers can relish the picturesque blend of golden sand and small white pebbles.

Where to Stay: With just six rooms clustered around an atmospheric garden, Courtyard Kalkan transports guests back in time with its traditional mix of Turkish and Greek architecture, restored in 2012 by local architects Kutay and Pınar Karabağ and with interiors by Bihter Türkfiliz.

Pointe de l’Aiguille, Cote d’Azur, France

The Cote d’Azur is home to numerous storied beaches, from Saint-Tropez and Cannes to Nice and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. If you’re in search of the quieter side of the French Riviera, this small pebble cove in the village of Théoule-Sur-Mer brings all the charm without the dense crowds. It is identifiable by its striking red rocks (the result of volcanic lava flow millions of years ago) and there’s even an underwater trail for snorkelers.

Where to Stay: Newly opened Château de Théoule is a 44-key hotel situated within a 17th-century soap factory turned private mansion. This  Millésime Collection property has its own private beach and boat slip and is located a few minutes from the stunning hikes of Massif d’Estérel .

Pasjača Beach, Dalmatia, Croatia

A short drive south of Dubrovnik lies this intimate beach in south Dalmatia. The beach itself is striking with its teal waters and staggering cliffs, but the narrow path and series of stairs carved into the rock make it all the more memorable. The nearby village of Popovići is also worth a visit for its traditional architecture and olive groves.

Where to Stay: Less than 20 minutes north in the lovely town of Cavtat sits Hotel Supetar Cavtat , a 16-room boutique hotel housed in an original 1920s private villa.

Platja de sa Boadella, Costa Brava, Spain

Otherworldly in its beauty, this beach on the Costa Brava is as picturesque as they come. Surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, the golden sands and turquoise waters feel secluded and wild. While it’s a smaller beach than others in the region, its tranquil ambiance more than makes up for the limited sand real estate. (Heads up: This has traditionally been a nudist beach, though stripping down certainly isn’t required.)

Where to Stay: Book a room at Hotel La Bionda , a boutique property in the historic center of Begur that served as an intellectual hub for women during the 1930s.

Thy National Park, Denmark

Attracting surfers for its surprisingly great swells and breaks, the Thy region of Denmark is an unlikely—but appealing—beach region. (Fun fact: It’s often referred to as ‘Cold Hawaii’ for obvious reasons.) Naturally, if you hope to catch some waves this is an all too worthy destination, but there’s plenty else to explore on these scenic beaches, from devouring freshly caught seafood on a picnic table overlooking the sea to trying your hand at kite and windsurfing.

Where to Stay: Local holiday home purveyor Land Folk rents out this charming thatched summer house secluded in the forest on a planted field. The interiors are distinctly Scandinavian, with Douglas fir walls and doors and a fireplace beneath the arched ceiling.

Tsigrado Beach, Milos, Greece

Adventurers who have already checked Sarakiniko off their list and are in search of a picturesque cove should add this beach to their agenda. Be sure to strap on your Tevas first—one must negotiate a steep (but exhilarating) descent with the aid of ropes and ladders to reach the fine white sands and blue-green waters of Tsigrado. The payoff is well worth it thanks to the rugged beauty that surrounds the small stretch of sand. Arrive early as it can get busy, and don’t miss the sea caves or snorkeling spots.

Where to Stay: Skinopi Lodge is a retreat tucked away on nine acres surrounded by olive trees and sea. Choose from seven villas with views of the Bay of Milos, which include outdoor showers and kitchens that blend inside with the great outdoors.

Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, Scotland

Utterly spectacular and somewhat puzzling, this UK beach offers miles of white sand and turquoise waters, creating a tropical appearance despite its northern location. The area is rich in wildlife, from seabirds to seals, and outdoor activities are popular here due to its expansive nature (which also ensures privacy no matter the season).

Where to Stay: Scotland is replete with regal accommodations, such as Amhuinnsuidhe Castle , a Victorian-era coastal retreat that sits on 50,000 acres of wilderness and can host up to 18 people. Enjoy bay views and a private collection of paintings by artist William McTaggart.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach, Malta

Recently named the most beautiful beach in Europe , this hidden gem along the coastline of Malta is admired for its red sand and scenic cliffs. The beach is located on the northern end of the island and in a sheltered bay, allowing for a relaxed experience for swimmers and snorkelers alike. Despite its beauty, it remains less crowded than nearby Golden Bay Beach due to a series of steps visitors must descend (and ascend) to enjoy the beach.

Where to Stay: Snag an Airbnb based on where you want to situate yourself for your time on the island. This charming townhouse close to the beach was built in the traditional Maltese method and is in the peaceful village of Mellieha.

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The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Here are our best tips for booking travel in 2024.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for summer 2024 travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot months in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. But sometimes the best time to book a flight also depends on the destination and whether it's domestic or abroad. The trends are always changing, but experts say the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

But there is some regional variance. Going , a platform that tracks flight prices and notifies members of good deals, has found the best months to book flights to Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and Latin America, for travel about 60 days out. Here's what it says.

Africa: Book in May.

Asia: Book in August or October, followed by April or September.

Oceania: Book in November, January, or July.

Europe: Book in August, October, or November.

Latin America: Book in October.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, Nastro says. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

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