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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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19 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated May 3, 2023

Europe is a land frozen in time, highlighted by meticulously preserved buildings and modern amenities. Europe's best countries also feature magnificent mountain ranges, deep gorges, and verdant countryside. This is where trips go to turn into vacations you'll dream about for years.

Active travelers love Europe's extensive attractions . Tourists can ski down the French Alps , kayak in Croatia's Adriatic Sea , hike the Grindelwald in Switzerland , and cycle through the Netherlands . Then there's the food. Yum! It's hard to beat Europe's gastronomic delights.

With so many countries to choose from, it can be hard to decide which to see first. Our advice? Don't stop at just one. Europe offers a slew of fabulous cheap places to visit packed into a relatively small space, so it's easy to visit multiple countries on one trip.

Not sure where to start your sightseeing? Use our list of the best countries to visit in Europe.

The Netherlands

Switzerland, ireland and northern ireland, czech republic, map of countries to visit in europe.

It's hard to picture Italy without salivating over the thought of its food. This boot-shaped country boasts tomatoes so sweet they taste like candy, pizzas cooked to perfection, and gelato that literally melts in your mouth. Italy is a utopia for gastronomes.

Even more resplendent than its food are the impeccable architecture and cultural masterpieces found in the ancient buildings, squares, and museums peppered throughout Italy's bustling cities and small, picturesque towns.

History abounds in the attractions of Rome (we're talking about visiting the Colosseum and touring the Pantheon ), and its phenomenal town squares (i.e. Piazza Navona , St. Peter's Square , and Piazza Spagna ) are a delight to enjoy.

Florence is home to the photo-worthy landmark attraction, the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio bridge, as well as museums you won't want to miss .

The canals of Venice are romantic and unique, while the massive Il Duomo , one of the top attractions in Milan , will have you gawking, as will the impressive outfits featured in the city's many shops.

The countryside is where you'll find the most authentic Italian experience. From skiing at top resorts to hiking to swimming to eating (of course), the country's beauty envelops visitors, making it hard to leave. The attractions of Tuscany are real winners, transporting tourists back in time with the region's largely untouched walls and towers, while lovely Lake Como offers a glimpse into the lifestyles of the world's elite.

The Amalfi Coast is as pretty as a postcard , which is why its colorful towns are featured on so much tourist kitsch.

Vive la France! Known for its romance, delectable food, art, culture, and natural beauty, this lovely country offers everything you'd ever want in a vacation. France also boasts enough gorgeous places to visit to ensure that every type of traveler will find something to love.

Bask in the sun's rays and catch sight of a celebrity or two on the iconic French Riviera . Let your camera run wild photographing fields blanketed by lavender in pretty Provence .

Travel back in time to the UNESCO-listed islet, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy. Ski down the French Alps in Chamonix , Val d'Isère , or Méribel .

Dine in a café along the Champs-Elysée , visit a museum , climb the stairs of the world famous Eiffel Tower , or stroll hand in hand with your soul mate along the River Seine in the bustling city of Paris .

One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Spain is also one of its best. From its architectural masterpieces to its towering mountain ranges, seaside cliffs, and hilltop villages, your camera will thank you for visiting this magical spot. No wonder more than 89 million tourists visited Spain in 2018, making it the second most visited country in the world.

You'll find plenty to see and do in the country's top cities. The most populated city in Spain, and its capital, Madrid is home to the lovely Crystal Palace and sprawling gardens, as well as elegant plazas.

More elegant and romantic, Seville's soundtrack consists of horses' hooves on cobblestone streets and clanging bells from church towers. Here, you'll find must-see attractions like the spectacular Catedral de Sevilla , the UNESCO World Heritage Site the Real Alcázar , and the expansive Plaza de España .

Big, beautiful, and bustling Barcelona is both energetic and eclectic, featuring architecture that would make Salvador Dali proud ( Casa Mila and the insanely unique Parc Güell are must-sees).

Valencia's top places to visit will soothe your soul with healing sea views, while Costa Brava offers some of the most stunning beaches in Spain .

Don't miss the beautiful attractions of Granada and its famous Alhambra palaces .

Austria is one of those countries that can truly take your breath away. Ringed by the magnificent Australian Alps and peppered with sparkling lakes, this wonderland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Austria is also one of the most musical. It's almost impossible to wander through the country's many city streets without catching a snippet of song, especially one composed by famed Austrian, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Born in the attractive city of Salzburg , the former Baroque composer's influence can be felt everywhere (his image is even found on chocolate wrappers).

Wind your way through narrow, twisting laneways in the old town, Altstadt Salzburg (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), enjoy lunch in a courtyard, or visit a museum or St. Peter's Abbey while you're in town.

Vienna is another hot spot of gorgeousness. In addition to intricate palaces (i.e. Belvedere Palace ) and sprawling gardens (i.e. those found at Schönbrunn Palace ), you'll find the fabulous City Hall (Rathaus) and gorgeous Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), among other popular Vienna attractions .

The sparkling town of Linz hugs both banks of the River Danube , making it a perfect spot for exploring both the river and the surrounding countryside.

Graz , the country's second-largest city, is another architectural hub, featuring buildings and ruins that date back to 800 CE. Don't miss the picturesque old town and be sure to climb the Schlossberg (a hill measuring 473 meters and topped with a clock tower), one of the best things to do in Graz .

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Austria

A Mediterranean masterpiece, the Eastern country of Croatia offers scenery to soothe the soul and fresh food to treat the palate. With friendly locals, hilltop castles, preserved Roman ruins, and a sea the color of sapphires, it's impossible to feel stressed in this lovely archipelago.

Wander the winding laneways within the towering old city walls in the historic city of Dubrovnik , or take the cable car up Srd Hill for the most spectacular view of this beautiful town, dubbed the "Pearl of the Adriatic."

Spectacular Split is one of the most vibrant cities in Croatia and the second largest after the main tourist hub of Zagreb . Both are more than worthy of a visit. The island of Hvar will help you get your beach on; it's been deemed the "sunniest spot in Europe."

Croatia's crowning glory is its perfect position on the Adriatic Sea. Be sure to board a boat at some point to explore the archipelago, especially the charming Elafiti Islands , which can be found northwest of Dubrovnik.

Feeling adventurous? Kayaking and rafting are popular in Croatia, and you'll find plenty of rocky limestone cliffs to jump from.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Croatia

Less formally known as Holland, the Netherlands offers visitors a laid-back vacation filled with art, beauty, and a lot of cycling.

Located in the northwest of Europe, the landscape is flat (perfect terrain for a bike) and peppered with iconic windmills and fields bursting with tulips in spring (April and May in particular). The best place to spot them is arguably Keukenhof , also known as the "Garden of Europe." It's located in Lisse .

Amsterdam is one of the best cities to visit in the Netherlands . Despite its somewhat seedy reputation, this canal-laden spot is beautiful and filled with impressive museums (40, to be exact). Don't miss the city's top attractions , the Rijksmuseum , Ann Frank's House , and Van Gogh Museum .

You'll also find cutting-edge, eco-friendly architecture mixed in with the historic structures found in riveting Rotterdam , dainty Delft , and The Hague .

Big cities aren't your only option in the Netherlands. The adorable fishing hamlets located along Lake Ijsselmeer are worthy of a stop, especially Marken , Volendam , and Enkhuizen .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

Bet you've never met a cranky Swede! Known for their gracious nature, the Swedish people are a friendly Nordic bunch. Given their impeccable surroundings — ancient walled cities, sparkling lakes, sun-drenched beaches, and glacier-topped mountains — it's no wonder they're so happy.

Located in the north of Europe, between Norway and Finland , the stunning country of Sweden is the place to visit if you're looking for an amazing view of the Northern Lights. Here, you can traipse through dense forests, canoe along crystal waters, and pitch a tent in an open field.

Those who appreciate avant-garde architecture will be rewarded with some of the world's most intriguing designs in Sweden. The country's most vibrant city is Stockholm , where you'll find the popular Vasa Museum , as well as stylish shops and eateries. Don't miss a trip to Skansen , a large open-air museum depicting life in the 1720s to 1960s.

Gothenburg, Sweden's "second city," is another must-see for foodies (they've got fantastic restaurants) and beach lovers alike.

The smallest European country on this list, beautiful Belgium makes up for its diminutive size with a boatload of charm, not to mention picturesque medieval towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and chocolate that will make your taste buds scream in delight. Did we mention the French Fries yet? Delish!

The country is unofficially divided into two main regions: the French-speaking and pastoral Wallonia in the south and the more cosmopolitan, Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north.

Brussels is a big tourist draw , offering visitors a peek at its most magical historic buildings, like La Grande Place (a.k.a. Gote Markt in Dutch) and Place Royal (a.k.a. Koningsplein). This is also where you'll find eclectic shops, tasty restaurants, and fantastic museums.

Bruges is tiny yet well storied and arguably the country's most beautiful town. Its canals, which are easily accessible by booking a boat cruise, wind their way through the city, offering lovely views of the captivating architecture.

• Best Beaches in Belgium
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Bruges

One of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, Switzerland is more than worth its hefty price tags. Snowcapped mountains burst through the clouds, emerging from lush, verdant fields dotted with sheep (hello, The Matterhorn ).

Expansive lakes (i.e. Lake Geneva ) span the countryside, offering a sparkling welcome to white water rafting, canoeing, fishing, and kayaking enthusiasts. Small villages like Gimmelwald gush storybook charm, captivating even the crankiest of travelers with their quaint shops and melt-in-your-mouth chocolates.

Larger cities like beautiful Zurich , pretty Geneva , lovely Lucerne , and the captial, Bern are packed with attractions, helping visitors get their fill of both culture and beauty in one go. You'll find numerous impressive museums, art galleries, shops, and fine dining within their borders.

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Zermatt. In fact, this is tourists' one-stop shop for winter sports, as well as unbeatable Alpine hikes and climbs.

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Switzerland

Perhaps the most laid-back of all the countries on this list, Greece is the perfect place to relax, yet it's filled with enough attractions to keep even the pickiest of tourists happily entertained. Azure domes top whitewashed buildings on the country's smaller isles , their doors and gates painted with colors so bright they beg to be photographed.

The sky in Greece is the most luscious of blues, while the sapphire Mediterranean caresses beaches boasting sand and pebbles of different colors — from tan to pink to red. Sunny and always busy Santorini is particularly spectacular, especially at sunset.

Crete is another popular island with inviting coastal towns and mountain villages. Athens is where you'll find phenomenal ancient ruins (like the iconic Acropolis), as well as world-class museums, shops, and restaurants.

Speaking of restaurants, it's hard to top the food in Greece. The freshest of local ingredients are used to create healthy and tasty delicacies teeming with vibrant flavors.

Castles and beaches and mountains, oh my! Portugal has a bevy of gorgeous scenery and spectacular places to visit . Hugging more than 800 kilometers of the Atlantic Coast, this is the place to be for those who love water views.

A visit to the beautiful Azores islands will immediately dissolve your worries. They are an archipelago consisting of nine gorgeous, mountainous isles perfect for diving, surfing, sailing, and whale watching. Nearby Madeira Island is particularly popular with European tourists.

Lisbon is the country's largest city, with a prime location at the mouth of the River Tagus . It is jam-packed with fun attractions , ranging from a historic castle to a state-of-the-art aquarium to beautiful town squares to a hilltop park with an impressive view.

Tomar is also set on the water. Its enchanting cobblestone streets wind around medieval churches, a majestic castle, and other historic buildings along the banks of the Nabão River.

While the Western country of Germany may not be the most romantic European vacation destination, it is dotted with incredible places to visit. Germany's spectacular scenery (we're talking sand dune-lined beaches, thick forests, and rugged mountains) make it a worthy destination for every type of traveler. It is literally filled with stunning places to visit .

Cosmopolitan destinations like the tourist hot spot, Munich , lively city of Hamburg , and energetic Frankfurt offer travelers the historic culture they crave in the form of ancient buildings, monuments, and museums. They also burst with shops and restaurants that serve traditional sauerkraut and schnitzels mixed with more contemporary fare.

The small towns are where you'll find a nice break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These quaint villages are peppered with beautiful remnants of the past. Despite suffering through war, many ancient towers, churches, and houses stand strong, stoically adding to the charm and allure of these rural delights.

Bavaria's colorful towns , Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber , Dinkelsbühl , and Nördlingen will lift your spirits and give your camera a real workout.

It doesn't take long for the U.K'.s largest country, England to charm its visitors. Best visited with an umbrella in hand, this oft rainy isle is one of the best places to visit in Europe.

Hoping to roam through bucolic countryside, frolicking with sheep as you wander over hills and across dales? Head to the green valleys of the enchanting Lake District , a wonderland so lush and fertile, you'll want to pitch a tent and stay for days.

More of a shopper? Head to London, the iconic capital where you'll meet the most modern yet understated styles of each season. You'll also be blessed with an infinite variety of top restaurants and cuisines.

Looking for storied castles? You'll find them aplenty in towns ranging from the large, walled city of York to the smaller village of Leeds to the tiny town of Warwick , which is set upon the picturesque River Avon.

Speaking of small towns in England , that's exactly where you'll want to head if you're in search of fairy-tale villages oozing charm. The impeccable villages of the Cotswolds must be seen to be believed. Named after the honey-colored stone used to build their enchanting homes, this rich land is brimming with culture, and an impressive charm you won't find anywhere else.

Denmark may be small (it's almost double the size of Massachusetts), but boy does it pack a beautiful punch. An environment-loving, friendly country, this Nordic star offers visitors a clean, calm, and beautiful vacation destination. It is also packed with exciting attractions and fun things to do.

Water is never far away, making it easy to relax beachside on the coast of the Baltic Sea or canoe or fish in one of the sparkling lakes and rivers.

Among its 450-island archipelago, you'll find villages dotted with timber homes, perfectly groomed gardens, as well as cities boasting palaces, museums, and amusement parks (like the always-hopping city of Copenhagen , with Christiansborg Palace and Tivoli Gardens ).

The Danish architectural style is hard to beat — from luxurious fortresses like Kronborg Castle to the uber modern National Maritime Museum attraction in Helsingor to the colorful shops and restaurants of Copenhagen's Nyhaven harbor. Museums and Viking history abound in the city of Roskilde .

Worried about getting around? You're more likely to run into bike traffic than car standstills in this eco-friendly country. Cycling is the preferred mode of transportation, especially through the windmill-spotted countryside.

Insider's tip: Make time to visit the breathtaking Faroe Islands .

Iceland is a majestic land sprinkled with some of the world's most captivating scenery and unique tourist attractions . A sparsely populated island, this breathtaking spot has become one of the most coveted of bucket list vacation destinations.

Adventure-seekers visit for its eccentric topography. You can traipse across, through, or around everything from glaciers to fjords to volcanoes to ice caves to waterfalls to mountain ranges.

During the day, visitors can shop, dine, or meet the uber-friendly locals in the country's biggest city, Reykjavik . Head out on a whale-watching tour, take a dip in the Blue Lagoon , or hike through the lava fields of the Hekla volcano .

Be sure to visit Vatnajökull , the largest (and most magnificent) glacier in Europe. At night, especially between September and April, tourists are rewarded with an unbeatable view of the northern lights. While summer tends to be the best time to visit Iceland for many visitors, the country is spectacular year-round.

Little beats the beauty of the lush green fields that blanket the Emerald Isle. This breathtaking island is steeped in history; dotted with bleating sheep; and packed with people so friendly, you'll beg to be adopted.

Add the lively music, endless stunning attractions, bustling cities , and unique things to do in Ireland , and you'll never want to leave.

Mother Nature outdid herself with the spectacular sights along the Ring of Kerry , the rugged Cliffs of Moher, and otherworldly Giant's Causeway (the top tourist attraction in Northern Ireland ). Pack a camera, as you'll want to capture these majestic spectacles for posterity.

Speaking of Northern Ireland, don't miss a visit to its capital, Belfast , where you can wander along the Titanic Quarter , visit the Titanic Belfast museum , and explore the Botanic Gardens . Dublin is unmissable. The music, the culture, the food, the attractions ; there's so much to love about this lively city.

When you've had enough of big city life, it's time to explore the heart of Ireland, its quaint and charming small towns . From the medieval castle in Kilkenny to the Gallous Oratory in Dingle to the vibrant fishing port of Kinsale , there's something for everyone to enjoy. Not surprisingly, these towns are among the many reasons so many people choose to visit Ireland for a weekend getaway .

Ever wanted to spend the night in a Castle? Ireland is famous for its ancient castles, some of which have been converted into luxurious hotels.

Fjords and mountains and lakes, oh my! Norway sure knows how to enchant its visitors. With so many top attractions , it can be tough to choose where to start.

Search for the northern lights or embark on an action-packed vacay filled with hiking, skiing, or white water rafting in scenery so captivating, it will leave you breathless, No matter how you choose to spend your vacation, Norway is a delight.

Not up for that much outdoor adventure? No worries, Osloo, the country's capital , is packed with fun things to do. You can explore museums, visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park , and enjoy a meal (or many) in the best restaurants in Oslo.

Sognefjord is the largest (and arguably most stunning) of Norway's fjords. At 204 kilometers long and 6,905 meters deep, Sognefjord offers plenty of incredible tourist attractions .

Ålesund is another unmissable gem famed for its postcard-worthy setting. In addition to checking out the city's impressive Art Nouveau architecture, walking around the harbor, and visiting the Town Park, there are a slew of interesting things to do in Ålesund .

For those with time to spare, be sure to book a night or two to properly enjoy the attractions of Tromosø . There are plenty of ways to stay entertained in Trondheim as well, and you won't regret checking out the fun things to do in Bergen .

When most people think of Turkey, they picture the Hagia Sophia Mosque or Grand Bazaar in Istanbul and salivate over the thought of Turkish food. This storied country is known for its unique and exciting tourist attractions .

Turkey is also home to top cities like Antalya (famed for its Dunden Waterfall ), beautiful Bursa (site of the remarkable Grand Mosque ), and spell-binding Sanliurfa , where you'll find the lovely Pool of Abraham .

While Istanbul is packed with things to see and do that include the aforementioned mosque and a glittering palace and Hippodrome , it is also home to beautiful parks .

Those hoping to lounge beachside, soaking up stunning views of the Mediterranean, will be pleased with the variety of picturesque islands in Turkey . Bozcaada is laid-back yet luxurious, framed by soft sandy beaches, while Gӧkçeada is a quiet wonderland best visited during the buzzing summer months.

There are numerous plush beach resorts to enjoy, making this an ideal place to spend at least a weekend away. Heading to Turkey in winter ? Great idea. There are plenty of fun (and cheap) things to do at this off-peak time.

One of the cheapest European countries to visit , the tiny Czech Republic is filled with intricate historic monuments, lively music, and tasty food. It's also one of the most beautiful countries in Europe and boasts fun things to do in every season, including winter .

It's easy to see why Prague tops the list of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic . The heart of this picturesque region, this pretty and vibrant city is a must see. Prague is filled with impressive tourist attractions , like Prague Castle , Charles Bridge , and Wenceslas Square , not to mention budget-friendly shops and restaurants. In fact, many of Prague's don't-miss sites are among the best tourist attractions in the Czech Republic .

Prague isn't the only city worth visiting in the Czech Republic; hot spots like Český Krumlov in the south (its castle is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Monument) and Kutna Hora (home to the Baroque chapel, Sedlec Ossuary ) are spectacular. They definitely warrant scheduling a day trip or two .

Head to Karlovy Vary, or Carlsbad as it's also known, for a rejuvenating dip in a thermal spa . Don't miss the 19 th -century Market Colonnade , Museum of Glass MOSER , and Church of St. Mary Magdalene , a few of the other popular tourist attractions in Karlovy Vary .

Not sure where to stay? Prague boasts fantastic deals on numerous hotels and resorts in all sections of the city.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

See Europe on a Budget : Let's face it, travel ain't cheap! Luckily, there are ways to see the world without emptying your pocketbook. Visit these inexpensive places in Europe (we're talking about awesome spots like Prague and Valencia ) or head to these beautiful yet affordable European countries (hello, Bulgaria and Romania ).

Other Unmissable European Destinations : Europe has so much to offer visitors, and our list of the best countries to visit in Europe merely highlights some of its top spots. From charming towns that look as if they've come straight out of a fairy tale to a historic sea fortress in Finland to Italy's best beaches , you'll never want to go home.

More on Germany

27 of the best places to visit in Europe 

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

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

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

Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw: Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s graceful canals, Paris’ Napoleonic splendor, and the multilayered historical and cultural canvas of London. There’s also a huge diversity of natural scenery: rugged Scottish Highlands with glens and lochs, the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence, and the Adriatic coastline speckled with thousands of islands. And those are  just the highlights.

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

But with a little planning and care, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime. Here are 27 of the best places to visit in Europe. 

1. London, UK

Truly one of the world’s greatest cities

London is mercurial and endlessly fascinating; you could spend a lifetime getting to know it, then realize it’s gone and changed again. Stretching back from the mighty River Thames, its lush parks and historic districts are crammed with extraordinary sights: royal palaces, towering cathedrals and remarkable museums and galleries. Add the pick of the world’s theaters, restaurants , sports venues and shops, and you’ll be very reluctant to leave.

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

2. Venice, Italy

Magical city seemingly floating on water

A sunny winter’s day, with far fewer tourists around, is the perfect time to lap up Venice 's unique and magical atmosphere. Ditch your map and wander the shadowy back lanes of Dorsoduro while imagining secret assignations and whispered conspiracies at every turn. Then visit two of Venice’s top galleries, the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , which house works by many of the giants of 20th-century art.

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

3. Paris, France

Get up close with an architectural icon

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

4. Rome, Italy

Classical ruins mixed with contemporary style

From the crumbling Colosseum to the ancient Forum and the Via Appia Antica , few sights are more evocative than the ruins of ancient Rome . Two thousand years ago, this city was the center of the greatest empire of the ancient world, where gladiators battled and emperors lived in unimaginable luxury. Nowadays it’s a haunting spot: as you walk the cobbled paths, you can almost sense the ghosts in the air.

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

5. Berlin, Germany

Catch the ever-changing zeitgeist

Nearly 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, it’s hard to believe that this most cosmopolitan of cities once marked the frontier of the Cold War. But reminders of Berlin 's divided past still remain: whether you’re passing the Brandenburg Gate , gazing at graffiti at the East Side Gallery or studying the exhibits at the DDR Museum , it’s an essential part of understanding what makes Germany’s capital. From there, it's time to soak up the city's amazing modern touches, like its iconic club culture , unique independent shops and cool neighborhoods . 

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

A spectacular walled city

Dubrovnik 's main claim to fame are its historic ramparts , considered among the finest in the world, which surround luminous marble streets and finely ornamented buildings. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the walls are still remarkably intact today, and the vistas over the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea are sublime, especially at dusk, when the fading light makes the hues dramatic and the panoramas unforgettable.

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

7. Prague, Czechia

An architectural central European jewel

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

Make sure to try these quintessential Prague experiences

8. Vienna, Austria

Grand heart of a former empire

The monumentally graceful Hofburg whisks you back to the age of empires in Vienna as you marvel at the treasury’s imperial crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Riding School and the chandelier-lit apartments fit for Empress Elisabeth. The palace, a legacy of the 640-year Habsburg era, is rivaled in grandeur only by the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the baroque Schloss Belvedere , both set in exquisite gardens.

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands

World Heritage-listed canals and gabled buildings

To say Amsterdammers love the water is an understatement. Stroll next to the canals and check out some of the thousands of houseboats. Or better still, go for a ride. From boat level you’ll see a whole new set of architectural details, such as the ornamentation bedecking the bridges. And when you pass the appealing canalside cafe terraces, mark the location for a later return.

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

10. Budapest, Hungary

Beautiful capital city straddling the Danube 

Along both sides of the romantic Danube River, with the Buda Hills to the west and the start of the Great Plain to the east, Budapest is perhaps the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe. Parks brim with attractions, the architecture is second to none, museums are filled with treasures, pleasure boats sail up and down the scenic Danube Bend, Turkish-era thermal baths belch steam and the city's nightlife throbs till dawn most nights. 

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

11. Barcelona, Spain

See the genius of a visionary architect

Barcelona is famous for its Modernista architecture, much of which was designed by Antoni Gaudí. His masterpiece is the mighty cathedral La Sagrada Família , which remains a work in progress close to a century after its creator’s death. It’s a bizarre combination of crazy and classic: Gothic touches intersect with eccentric experiments and improbable angles. Even half completed, it’s a modern-day wonder.

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

12. Lisbon, Portugal

Soulful city armed with Gothic grit

Alfama , with its labyrinthine alleyways, hidden courtyards and curving, shadow-filled lanes, is a magical place to lose all sense of direction and delve into Lisbon 's soul. On the journey, you’ll pass breadbox-sized grocers, brilliantly tiled buildings and views of steeply pitched rooftops leading down to the glittering Tagus. Pause at cozy taverns filled with easygoing chatter, with the scent of chargrilled sardines and the mournful rhythms of fado drifting in the breeze.

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

13. The Scottish Highlands

Scenic grandeur and echoes of the past

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands . From the regal charm of Royal Deeside, via the brooding majesty of Glen Coe, to the mysterious waters of sweeping Loch Ness , these are landscapes that inspire awe. The region is scattered with fairy-tale castles and the hiking is suitably glorious. Add the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and romantic hotels, and you have an unforgettable corner of Scotland . 

Exploring more of Scotland? Here are our top road trips

14. Dublin, Ireland

Pints of Guinness and literary connections

Whether you’re wandering around the leafy Georgian terraces of St Stephen’s Green or getting acquainted with the past at Kilmainham Gaol , in Dublin you’re never far from a literary or historic sight. And then there are the city’s pubs : there are few better places to down a pint than Dublin, and you can even make a pilgrimage to the original Guinness brewery . Either way, you’ll surely make a few Irish friends along the way. 

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

15. Florence and Tuscany, Italy

Italy’s most romanticized region

The gently rolling hills of Tuscany , bathed in golden light and dotted with vineyards, sum up Italy’s attractions in a nutshell. Here picture-perfect hilltop towns vie with magnificent scenery and some of Italy’s best food and wine. And there’s Florence , home to what UNESCO describes as "the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world". It’s a city packed with blockbuster museums, elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes.

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

16. Ruins of Pompeii, Italy

Ancient city destroyed and preserved by Vesuvius

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

17. Andalucía, Spain

Vibrant cities studded with impressive architecture

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

18. Reykjavík, Iceland

The world’s most northerly capital

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

Here's how to experience the best of Iceland

19. Copenhagen, Denmark

Coolest kid on the Nordic block

Scandinavia is all about pared-back contemporary style – something that the Danish capital has in spades. Home to a thriving design scene, Copenhagen sports Michelin-starred restaurants, hipster cafes and bars, and swoon-worthy boutiques around every corner. Add in top-class museums and galleries and a 1000-year-old harbor with handsome historic architecture and you have the perfect Scandi city. 

20. Provence, France

Gallic charm in the south of France

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

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

21. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Hike, ski and admire these postcard-perfect peaks

The stirring ramparts of the Swiss Alps grace chocolate bar wrappers and evoke stereotypical Heidi scenes, but nothing prepares you for their allure up close. The most famous summit, the Matterhorn, is a mesmerizing peak that looms above the timber-chalet-filled Swiss village of Zermatt . Gaze at it from a tranquil cafe, hike in its shadow along the tangle of alpine paths above town, with cowbells clinking in the distance, or pause on a ski slope and admire its craggy, chiseled outline. 

22. Istanbul, Türkiye

Where Europe meets Asia 

Serving stints as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires and an ancient crossroads of civilizations, Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities. The historical highlights cluster in Sultanahmet – the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , Topkapı Palace and Grand Bazaar – with the vast  Süleymaniye Mosque  crowning a hilltop in Eminönü.

Find your way around İstanbul with our neighborhood guide

23. Athens, Greece

Monument-strewn capital of Ancient Greece

Greece has ancient monuments at seemingly every turn, but it’s in Athens where the greatest and most iconic still stand. High on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city, the Acropolis epitomizes the glory of ancient Greece with its graceful Parthenon and 17,000-seat Theatre of Dionysos . Other impressive ruins littering this vibrant city include the Temple of Olympian Zeus and two agoras (marketplaces; one Greek, one Roman) mingling with first-rate museums.

24. Schloss Neuschwanstein, Germany

Fairy-tale castle in a fairy-tale setting

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

25. Greek Islands, Greece

Whitewashed Mediterranean villages above a turquoise sea

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

26. Ring of Kerry, Ireland

A wild and medieval Irish road trip

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

27. Oslo, Norway

Scandinavia’s gateway to the fjords

Oslo is doing everything it can to claim the prize of Europe’s capital of contemporary style. The Opera House evokes an iceberg in a fjord, public art is a national pastime, and the city’s extraordinary museums span the Viking age to modern Norway. So impressive are the results, that Oslo has become so much more than a mere stopover on the road to the fjords.

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Europe's Top 10 Countries

Let yourself be inspired by the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Best countries to visit in Europe in 2024

Explore europe holidays and the best places to visit.

Europe is the number 1 tourist destination in the world, the very large variety of its landscapes, the diversity of its climates and its history make it travellers' favourite place for a holiday . The European continent has more than 50 countries and it is not always easy to make a choice when planning a trip to visit Europe .

Our site is visited by more than 6 million travellers per year, thanks to traffic data and research in recent months we have been able to set up a ranking of the best countries to visit in 2024 .

Whether for a city break in Italy, a nature holiday in Croatia, a cultural trip in France or a beach holiday in Portugal, discover  travellers' favourite European countries for a trip in 2024 .

Greece is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe ; it also offers one of the best climates to enjoy the sun all year round. The country ranks #1   most searched countries 2024 .

The beauties and riches of Greece are numerous, the country offers activities for all.  From the traditional but not to miss  Acropolis tour  to romantic sailing cruises along the coast of  Santorini  or an afternoon scuba-diving to  Mykonos , make your choice among the  best things to do in Greece .

Our selection of the  best beaches in Greece , the  most beautiful islands in Greece , the natural wonders, the  best things to do in Greece  and the  best Castles to visit in Greece  will help you  find your ideal holiday .

  MYKONOS, GREECE

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2. Portugal

Portugal is on the podium of the most searched countries in recent months on our site and therefore ranks 2nd among countries to visit in 2023!

Portugal is recognized for the beauty of its landscapes , its gastronomy, its rich history and its magnificent beaches . 

Porto Santo (Madeira Islands) and Faial (Azores) were voted among the 20 Best Destinations to visit in 2024 and will be  must-see places during your visit to Portugal. 

World famous for its wine, Porto is an ideal destination for a city break of a few days. You can stay at  Porto Moments Apartments which offers a magnificent view of the UNESCO-listed historical area.

The beaches of Cascais and the Algarve region are perfect for recharging your batteries in the sun. The Vila Alba Eco-Resort hotel is located near some of the best beaches in Europe . If you are nature lovers, be sure to visit the archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores . If you are an history buff do not miss to visit the amazing city of Braga !

  Azores, Portugal

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Italy is unique in the world. Rome, the capital, was considered the capital of the world for many centuries. This country has had a profound impact on Europe and continues to fascinate travellers from all over the world.

There is not one place in Italy that is not incredibly interesting and beautiful. You can ski in  the best ski resorts of Italy . You can see masterpieces in  the best destinations of Italy  such as Rome, Milan, Florence. You can go off the beaten track and explore the most beautiful castles in Italy or the  best hidden gems in Italy  such as Alberobello or Sirmione. Do you want to relax? Discover your ranking of  the most beautiful beaches in Italy .

From Cinque Terre to Tropea via Pisa, Venice, Bologna, Monte Isola or Palermo, discover the most beautiful places in Italy .

  Florence, Italy

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The assets and beauties of Spain are numerous: the beaches of Tenerife in Formentera, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona , the Guggenheim in  Bilbao , the Camino del Rey in  Malaga , the  most beautiful villages in Spain  such as Ronda, Cadaques, Cudillero ...

This country is certainly one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Put the most beautiful cities , beaches , castles and the  best things to do in Spain  on top of your travel bucket list and find inspiration for your next trip. Travel more and spend less by booking your flights , accommodation and  best tours in Spain .

  Marbella, Spain

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France is the most visited country in Europe ahead of Spain and  Italy . Perhaps it is because  Paris  is the capital of love or because its wines, especially those of  Bordeaux , are among the finest and most famous in the world. It may be that travellers prefer the beautiful landscapes of ‘La France’ or perhaps are drawn to its incredible cultural heritage and historical monuments such as the illustrious  châteaux of the Loire Valley .

You want to think outside the box? No problem, we have selected for you the  best hidden gems of France . Do not waste time and discover the  best places to visit in France .

  Dordogne Valley, France

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Immerse yourself in millennia of history. Take a dip in the turquoise blue waters of Marmaris and Ölüdeniz. Immerse yourself in the scents of the spices of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. Relax in the thermal waters of Pamukkale. Turkey is unique in the world, incomparable. Take time to discover it and be surprised by the beauty and the richness of this country.

From the Topkapi Palace you can see the Blue Mosque, the Maiden’s Tower, as well as the blue waters of the Bosphorus that surround the Princes Islands. Your journey will take you to Ankara, Bodrum, Marmaris and Oludeniz. You will fly over Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, snuggle up in your cave hotel, see the giant statues of Nemrut Dagi and marvel at the amazing whirling dervishes.

Treat yourself to memories of a lifetime by booking your  flights ,  accommodation ,  tours and activities  in Turkey.

  Istanbul, Turkey

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Croatia is a wealthy country that offers travellers the guarantee of an exceptional holiday. You will probably find there the greatest diversity of landscapes in Europe with forests, countryside, hills, beaches, islands and mountains of a rare beauty.

You will fall in love with this country, its history, its beauty, its charm. You will dive into the pure waters of Croatia and discover its 1,000 islands. You can also venture into the hinterland and discover exceptional hills, mountains and forests. 

Croatia is a breathtaking destination. Do a city trip to Zagreb , relax or play sport on its coasts and islands. Croatia is also ideal for green holidays. Have nice walks in its beautiful parks. Enjoy its gastronomy.

  Hvar, Croatia

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Germany is one of the most visited countries in Europe along with France, the UK and Italy. This is probably because Germany offers such a diverse and authentic variety of landscapes and destinations.

Germany is the perfect destination for unique experiences in Europe with its magnificent castles , beautiful  wild beaches  and incredible  hidden gems .

Germany is a perfect destination not only for history and nature lovers, but also foodies. Do you expect to drink beer and eat sausage every day? Forget the clichés. Germany is the second European country with the most starred restaurants, just after France. Which German unmissable destinations will you add to your wish list?

  Berlin, Germany

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Your discovery of Austria will likely start with a stay in  Vienna . But where will you go next? Are you going to limit yourself to discovering the beauties and riches of the Austrian capital or would you like to discover the  most beautiful destinations in Austria , its sumptuous lakes, its incredible castles, the must-see destinations as well as the best hidden gems  and  nature wonders of Austria ?

Discover must-see places as well as off-the-beaten-path destinations and create your trip à la carte by finding inspiration among the best places to visit in Austria .

  Hallstatt, Austria

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10. Ireland

You already know a lot about Ireland . The colours of its flag hold no secrets for you, do they? Do you know some of its symbols like the three leaf clover? You've already had a Guinness and Irish Whiskey. You may have even stayed in  Dublin  or  Belfast  before. How about going off the beaten track this time?

Are you ready to discover breathtaking landscapes? Do you fancy getting your fill of ions walking along the Cliffs of Moher, or horseback riding on one of Ireland's best beaches ? Exceptional sites like the Giant Causeway, Dark Edges, Kylemore Abbey, Skellig Michael, Portbradden, ranked among the  best hidden gems in Ireland  await you as well as the  best places to visit in Ireland  as Kinsale, Belfast, Galway or  Cork .

  The Dark Hedges, Ireland

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ready to start planning your next trip?

1 – Venice, Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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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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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Europe

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on July 5, 2024

With its layers of history and overlapping of cultures, Europe is a treasure trove of everything from the medieval and ancient to the baroque and art nouveau. Couple this with Arctic conditions in the north and beautiful Mediterranean climates in the south, and there’s a whole side of nature to go with the main dish of culture that can be found in this wonderful continent.

Sinking cities, leaning towers, and mystic old towns are mixed with Catholic churches, deep lochs, and sweeping fjords. This hotbed of history and civilization makes for an undeniably exciting place for any traveler to explore, so here are the top tourist attractions in Europe to help you plan your next trip.

25. Leaning Tower of Pisa

The world-famous leaning tower is known around the globe for its incredible four-degree tilt that makes it seem as if the tower is about to topple over. The amazing slanted belltower sits behind Pisa Cathedral and was built in the Romanesque style.

Dating back to the 12th century, the tower took a whopping 199 years to complete, but began to slant during its construction due to soft ground on one side. Today, the tower – which stands at a wonky 55.86 meters tall – attracts tourists from far and wide who want to catch sight of the tower and snap pictures of themselves in front of it.

24. Canals of Bruges

The arteries of the old town, the canals of Bruges have long been the roadways that connect the city. Bruges originally sat on the banks of the river Reie; as the city developed, so did its charming waterways. The canals were dug from the river for commercial shipping in order to move essential goods and supplies around the town.

Bruges’ inner canals mark the old city walls and ramparts and make for a beautiful area to explore on foot or in one of the many tourist boats. Cruise past the numerous old overarching brick bridges, sail along small streams, and spot the scenic riverside houses.

23. Cliffs of Moher

Located in Ireland’s County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are an awe-inspiring sight. The coastal cliffs are made up of steep 214m stone and run for 14km from Hag’s Head to Doosouth. From the top of the cliffs, the Aran Islands can be spotted across the sparkling waters.

The coastal walking paths along the cliffs make for a fantastic ramble among the natural landscape, where you can glimpse the castle-like cliffs. The cliffs have been the subject of many folk tales and stories, and have been featured in numerous films, such as Harry Potter.

22. Pompeii

In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted with devastating effect. Many small towns and settlements in the region were completely destroyed by the eruption, not least Pompeii . Ironically, being buried under layers of ash that fell from the volcano has led to an incredibly well-preserved snapshot of a Roman city frozen in the midst of a disaster.

Though a few valuables were taken through the centuries, the site was rediscovered and has been excavated since 1764. Nowadays, visitors can walk around the ancient city and marvel at preserved colorful murals and see the plaster casts of people and animals in their final moments.

21. Meteora

Meaning “elevated” in Greek, Meteora is a jutting rock formation in Thessaly, Greece – a wild landscape made up of hill-like boulders that dominate the skyline. Part of what makes that magnificent landscape so amazing, however, are the monasteries that precariously cling to the rocks.

Set on cliffs with staircases cut into the very stone itself, this religious site dates back to the 15th century, and some still welcome visitors to this day. The most famous of all, the Holy Trinity Monastery, perches an amazing 400 meters atop a natural rock tower and is a breathtaking sight to set eyes on.

20. Sagrada Familia

Officially the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, this famously opulent church in Barcelona is the brainchild of the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. With work starting on the church back in 1882, 137 years later, the Sagrada still remains unfinished. It is expected that the building will be completed in 2026.

Built in the art nouveau and gothic styles, the fantastical church has an impressive eight spires and ten that are yet to be constructed. This decidedly Gaudi-esque building draws crowds of tourists with twisting turrets, and surreal curves, while intriguing gargoyles make for something from another world and time entirely.

19. Tallinn Old City

Once part of the trading alliance the Hanseatic League, Tallinn was formerly an extremely prosperous city. The riches of Tallin’s past can be seen be in the Old City, which still retains its 13th-century city plan. Authentically medieval, there are grand merchant’s houses and churches lining the cobblestone streets.

One of the major sites in this cultural and historical heart of the Estonian capital is the Town Hall Square, home to the gothic Town Hall. Elsewhere, you’ll find Estonia’s oldest church, the 13th-century cathedral of Saint Mary the Virgin, set on Toompea Hill. Today, it’s not just the historic buildings that make the area so charming; there are also numerous bars and shops to enjoy too.

18. Tower Bridge

Often mistakenly thought to be London Bridge, Tower Bridge is a late Victorian masterpiece showcasing the height of London’s standing on the world stage. Opened in 1894, the bridge crosses the Thames close to the Tower of London, another London landmark.

The bridge itself is a drawbridge powered by engine rooms which are located in the neo-gothic north and south towers, making this a feat of 19th-century engineering. The bridge is still in use to this day and has even been modernized with lights that glimmer in the evening.

17. Neuschwanstein Castle

One of the architectural projects of “Mad” King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is the quintessential fairytale castle. In fact, it was the castle’s soaring spires and romanesque revival style that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Construction of the castle began in 1869, but sadly, Ludwig never got to live in his castle; he died in 1886, the same year of the castle’s completion. Set in South Bavaria among forested mountains and mirror-like lakes, the picturesque setting of the castle is as impressive as the building itself.

16. Mont Saint-Michel

This famous fortified island is located around a kilometer off the northwestern shores of Normandy , France. Walking around Mont-St-Michel might feel as if you have been transported back to another time; the monastery here dates back to the 8th century and is still in use today. The old walls and chapels are intriguing places to explore.

At high tide, waters make the island seem as if it is a floating fortress in the sea. Previously only reachable by foot or car during low tide, the island can be reached at any time on foot along a bridge built in 2014.

15. Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands form a rugged, mountainous region of Northern Scotland. There are many things to do in amongst the dramatic scenery of this picturesque area. There’s Glencoe Valley where red deer roam and waterfalls hide; close to here, Ben Nevis calls with the highest mountain peak in the United Kingdom.

Elsewhere, Loch Ness sits in the Central Highlands and is where you can try to catch a glimpse of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, or simply take a stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The Scottish Highlands are also home to Inverness, the largest city in the region. Nearby Moray Firth is where you may be able to spot dolphins playing in the sea.

14. Lake Bled

Set in Northwest Slovenia close to the town of Bled is a gleaming emerald lake surrounded by stunning verdant hills. Catch one of the old wooden boats called pletna over to the small Bled Island in the middle of the lake. The island is home to the Church of the Assumption of Mary – a 17th-century building with some 15th-century gothic frescoes still intact.

Around this incredibly picturesque spot, there’s also Bled Castle, but one of the best things to do in the area is to simply stroll around the lake and take a break for a swim in the calm waters.

13. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Arguably the most iconic sight in Russia, this twisting Cathedral with its multi-colored onion domes is set in Moscow’s equally iconic Red Square. St Basil’s Cathedral was also built by a very iconic man – Ivan the Terrible – in 1555.

The structure is a madly bright lollypop of strange styles that seem more like a funfair and look unlike anything else in Russia. Because of its unique architectural style and its historic links to a victorious battle in Tatarstan, the cathedral is a symbol of Russia.

12. Dubrovnik Old Town

One of the most beautiful old towns in Europe, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a red-roofed marvel that is asking to be explored. Its ancient city walls jut out into the Adriatic Sea, and its cobblestone streets hide a plethora of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and museums.

Dating back to the 16th century, the stone walls boast baroque churches and crumbling buildings. Built in 1573, Pile Gate marks the entrance the Old Town with its remarkable renaissance arches – it’s particularly beautiful when lit up at night. The Dubrovnik Cable Car offers the opportunity to see the ancient streets of the city from above.

11. Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is well known for its canals. In fact, there are more than 100 kilometers of canals weaving around the Netherland’s capital, forming around 90 islands and requiring 1,500 bridges to get around. The waterways lead to Amsterdam being labeled the ‘Venice of the North.’

The Grachtengordel is Amsterdam’s canal district, where the four main canals form concentric rings around the city center. Dug in the 17th century, the canals were used for transportation, as sewers, as drinking water – a bit of everything. In the modern city, the canals make up the charming cityscape that Amsterdam is known for. The canals are backed by 17th-century townhouses, adding even more to the charm factor.

10. Eiffel Tower

Named after Gustave Eiffel, the unmistakable symbol of Paris is a sight that must be witnessed when visiting the French capital. Constructed between 1887 and 1889, the tower was originally built to be the impressive entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair. The tower stands at 324 meters tall and was amazingly the world’s tallest man-made structure until the Empire State Building took the title in 1930.

Take the lift all the way to the observation deck of the tower and marvel at the views of the Parisian boulevard and pattern of parks below. Or simply sit on the Champ de Mars and marvel at the lattice structure itself.

9. Prague Old Town

The medieval Old Town of the Czech Republic capital is bristling with historical sights, which is what makes it such a popular destination. At its heart is the Old Town Square, where you’ll find the Old Town Hall, boasting the Orloj – or Astronomical Clock – which dates back to 1410, making it the oldest clock still in operation in the world.

Connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town of Prague across the Vltava River is the Charles Bridge. Construction on the bridge started in 1357 but wasn’t completed until the early 15th century. Around the Old Town, plenty of bars and a buzzing nightlife scene make for an enjoyable place to stick around after dark.

See also: Where to Stay in Prague

8. St. Peter’s Basilica

Located in Vatican City, St Peter’s Basilica is the biggest church in the world, and one of the most famous examples of Italian Renaissance architecture. Construction began on this monument in 1506, with one of the architects being none other than Michelangelo.

This is where the Pope himself addresses the tens of thousands of worshippers who crowd the adjacent St Peter’s Square. The current Basilica replaced the old St Peter’s Basilica, which stood in the same place from around 360 AD. The church itself is thought to be built over the tomb of St Peter.

7. Canals of Venice

Venice is the original canal city; every other canal city in the world is compared to Venice . The enigmatic waterlogged city is the site of more than 150 waterways and 400 bridges, including the famous Bridge of Sighs.

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

The main canal in Venice is the two-mile-long Grand Canal, which flows past St Mark’s Square and is lined with some of Venice’s historic architecture – from the Medieval to the baroque. Gondoliers punt visitors around wearing striped shirts and wide-brimmed hats, but boats on the river are not just for tourists; they are also used for everyday jobs such as rubbish collection.

6. Palace of Versailles

Versailles is a monument like no other; when it comes to palaces, Versailles definitely takes first place. This grandiose building was the main residence for French royalty from 1682 until the 1789 French Revolution.

The exterior of the castle is enchantingly ornate, but its interiors are no less impressive. Some rooms inside the building are as famous as the palace itself, such as the Hall of Mirrors with its opulent gilded decoration. The geometric Garden of Versailles is punctuated with conical trees and woven as canals and fountains.

5. Fjords of Norway

One of the top reasons many people travel to Norway is to see its majestic fjords . Shaped by glaciers over an incomprehensibly long 2.5 million years or so, the towering U-shaped valleys and their carved cliffs create a stunning landscape that’s almost too huge to take in.

Norway boasts over 1000 fjords, only a portion of which are visited en masse (like the Hardangerfjord and Geirangerfjord), meaning it’s still possible to find a slice of solitude. Taking a cruise ship is a great way to see the soaring walls of the fjords as the boat glides on the waters. Alternatively, hiking atop the fjords offers a birds-eye-view of the incredible landscape.

4. Alhambra

Built on the ruins of Roman fortifications in 889 AD, Alhambra is a combination palace and fortress situated in Granada , Spain. For almost 1,000 years, much of the Iberian peninsula was ruled by the Islamic Moors, with Andalusia (the area where Alhambra is located) being their longest-held territory.

Today, you can explore its citadel, the oldest part of the fortress, climb up its watchtower, explore the amazing Moorish gardens and courtyards, and be amazed at the delicate geometric patterns throughout the complex. The setting on the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada makes Alhambra that much more mystical.

3. Hagia Sophia

For almost 1,000 years, Hagia Sophia was the biggest cathedral in the world and is still a fantastic structure to set eyes on. Originally built as an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral in 537 AD when Istanbul was named Constantinople, Hagia Sophia became an Ottoman mosque from 1453 and is today a museum for all faiths to enjoy.

The dome of the Hagia Sophia is a marvel in itself, and the building as a whole perfectly reflective of Byzantine architecture – as well as Istanbul’s patchwork heritage. Walking around the building today, you can piece together the history of the city with its intriguing murals and interesting artifacts.

2. Acropolis

The Acropolis in Athens is a simply stunning sight. This monumental hill is the location of a number of ancient sites that date back to the 5th century BC. Some of the attractions that crown the Acropolis include the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and, of course, the Parthenon.

See also: Where to Stay in Athens

Constructed at the peak of the Athenian Empire in 447 BC, the Parthenon is a symbol of Greece and impresses with its innumerable columns. Dedicated to Athena, it became a Christian church in the 6th century AD and a mosque in the 1460s after the Ottoman invasion. After nightfall, the Acropolis is lit up with a glow that can be seen around Athens.

1. Colosseum

The Colosseum is the perfect symbol of the power of the Roman Empire at its height. Dating back to 72 AD, it was designed to hold 50,000 spectators and was, at the time, the biggest amphitheater ever built. Here, all manner of public spectacles were shown – from animal hunts and executions to gory gladiator battles; it was even filled with water for mock sea battles.

See also: Where to Stay in Rome

Although practically a ruin, the Colosseum is still very much an icon of Rome . Step inside the arches and take a tour of the structure. Sit and imagine yourself as a spectator in Roman times, and the grand displays and spectacles that went on inside the ring.

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The Best Places to Go in Europe in 2024

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

In considering the best places to go in Europe in 2024, we asked our expert contributors to nominate the destinations that are on the up—either because of a flock of hotel openings, perhaps, murmurings of Michelin arrivals, shiny new museums, or a concerted conservation effort taking root. Across the continent, we heard about a first-time sports events in Italy ; astonishing nature and new glampsites in Scandinavia ; and an unexpected surf scene in France with heightening buzz. There are also classic Greek escapes, which are easier to reach than ever before, and Hungarian cities evolving wholesale in time for major anniversaries.

What follows is an edit of Europe's countries, regions, cities, and neighborhoods that are worthy of your time and attention in 2024—all thoughtfully selected by our editors at Condé Nast Traveller UK and Spain . It's just a fraction of what Europe has on deck in the year ahead, but it's, we feel, the best place to start. Happy travels.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Places to Go in Europe

Antwerp, belgium.

Go for: intriguing new architecture and a clutch of sharp hotel openings

Enjoy the cocktails at August in Antwerp; then head next door for dinner at the new Untitled, which offers rustic dishes from a renowned team.

August, and sister property Hotel Julien, showcase the effortless cool that characterizes Belgium's most underrated city.

So often overlooked in favor of its Dutch neighbor Amsterdam —or mistakenly written off as being as staid as Brussels— Antwerp is easily Belgium's most underrated city. In fact, the diamond capital of the world is somewhat of an undiscovered gem, with plenty of cool and culture for a weekend romp. There’s an impressive concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants to rival major European capitals. Perhaps best known is two-star The Jane , which was ranked number 39 in this year's World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2024. If the exquisite 14-course tasting menu htere is out of budget, the restaurant’s sleek new bar, Untitled , which opened earlier this year, offers rustic dishes at a more accessible price point, all lovingly plated before your eyes by chef Joeri Timmermans. After dinner, roll yourself next door to bag a bed at August (a former Augustinian convent turned supremely serene sanctuary), or for a sleepover in the heart of town, sister property Hotel Julien is a design-led favorite. Once you’ve eaten your way through the city’s culinary offerings, walk it all off Zuidpark, an ambitious development set for completion by spring 2024. Pinned to be one of Antwerp’s leafiest havens, the seven-hectare park will have 30,000 plants and several smart water features—all part of the city’s continual effort to be greener. — Gina Jackson

Asturias, Spain

Go for: eco-focused tourism that doesn't scrimp on luxury

Sink into Asturias's mountainous landscapes at Ecoboutique's Solo Palacio, in the Picos de Europa mountain range, where smart interiors beg travelers to stay a while.

In this lesser-trammeled slice of Spain, rural hotels provide a place to rest your head between days spent hiking and visiting Michelin star restaurants. Talk about balance.

While the pandemic generated a new type of traveler—increasingly nature-loving and environmentally conscious—Asturias did not have to reinvent itself to attract them. The tagline “Asturias, natural paradise,” created almost 40 years ago, represents everything we look for in a getaway. Perhaps that is why this autonomous community is the most dynamic destination in northern Spain; it welcomed more than 2.4 million visitors last year, with more international travelers than ever. The climate also helps: heatwaves are barely noticeable. This is the year to discover its natural spaces, many of them UNESCO Biosphere Reserves , via rejuvenated routes such as the Camino Primitivo, a calmer branch of the popular Camino de Santiago , through some of the country’s least-known regions. Spain’s first rural hotel, La Rectoral de Taramundi , opened here, and other noteworthy addresses include PuebloAstur Eco-Resort in the Picos de Europa mountain range, Ecoboutique’s Solo Palacio and Las Caldas Villa Termal . Alternatively, book into new arrivals Palacio de Figueras from the Vestige Collection or CoolRooms’ Palacio de Luces . The food scene also makes Asturias unmissable. Its “landscape cuisine” rivals that of the Basque Country . There are 11 Michelin stars peppered around the region as well as an emerging culinary movement in the Caudal and Nalón valleys, while chefs such as Natalia Menéndez (Casa Chuchu), Diego García (El Pintu), Paula Lamas and Jairo Rodríguez (Roble), and Xune Andrade (Mont) are on the rise. Regional capital Oviedo is aiming to be the country's Gastronomic Capital for 2024, bringing together more than 200 chefs at the Euro-Toques conference in April. — Clara Laguna

Biarritz, France

Go for: a sweet surf scene in a lesser-known stretch of the Basque Country

Sun-soaked Biarritz has built on its Belle Époque heritage with hotels like Villa Magnan (unsurprisingly, you may fine local interior designers sitting beside you at its restaurant).

Breathe in the salty air atop the roof terrace at Regina Biarritz, a new opening from the Parisian-born Experimental Group—and added proof that the surf town is having a comeback.

Just over the border from San Sebastián , the French resort town of Biarritz is prepped to step out of the shade of its Michelin-star-studded Spanish Basque counterpart and welcome a new generation of sophisticate. These travelers are booking into its artfully resuscitated Belle Époque hotels, including Experimental’s brand new Regina Biarritz , Unbound’s Hôtel du Palais , and enigmatic indie Villa Magnan (book a table at De Puta Madre and dine with local interior designers and filmmakers). The late 20th century was not kind to this beautiful town on France’s southwestern coast , its dwindling fortunes and faded grandeur standing in stark contrast to its late-19th-century and early-20th-century heyday, when Emperor Napoleon III had his summer palace here, and his Spanish wife Eugénie promoted Biarritz as a health resort. Happily, in-the-know Spanish and French urbanites have rediscovered this delight, lapping up a hip surf scene (Biarritz is one of Europe’s oldest surf destinations, thanks to a bunch of Americans who visited in the 1950s) and fueling a youthful Basque culinary scene, from the thrilling Les Halles covered market to neo-bistro Epoq and Michelin-starred favorites such as L’Impertinent . — Anna Hart

Bodø, Norway

Go for: stargazing, spectacular nature, and can't-miss cultural events

The aurora borealis are one of the biggest draws for those visiting Bodø in winter, but cultural events in 2024 will means days equally full of colorful entertainment.

Bodø’s position on the pristine shores of northern Norway affords it endless days in the glow of the midnight summer sun and shocks of fluorescent light come winter, when the aurora borealis erupt onto the night sky. This small Arctic fishing town is a European Capital of Culture for 2024, which will result in the area’s largest-ever arts program, including about 1,000 events and an influx of people interested in creativity in all its forms. The region’s unique Sámi heritage is championed here, while striking modern expansion is seen in buildings such as the world-class, harbor-fronting Stormen Concert Hall , which can hold 900 people and will form a crucial centerpoint for the celebrations.

Beyond its cultural accolades, Bodø is also the gateway to the ethereal Lofoten Islands . The dramatic landscape of fjords and jagged peaks makes it a perfect playground for adventurers and photographers alike, offering unforgettable, dramatic views. Adding to Bodø’s appeal is its burgeoning food and drinks scene (try Lystpå for dinner and Brødrene Berbusmel Bakery for breakfast) as well as exciting new places to stay. The Wood Hotel will open in 2024, offering the town’s most luxurious lodgings yet, with pared-back Scandi design and floor-to-ceiling windows. For something a little more in tune with nature, try GlampNord .— Rosie Conroy

Budapest, Hungary

Go for: a fresh take on the 150 year-old city

As the city of Budapest turns 150, an overwhelming sense of old-meets-new is inspired by historic attractions living alongside just-opened hotels (such as the art deco-inspired W, above) and futuristic buildings (like the House of Music Hungary).

Renowned for its architecture, the Hungarian capital is home to everything from art nouveau and neoclassical to gothic and baroque, with the Blue Danube connecting it all like a ribbon. And then there are the mineral-rich thermal baths, featuring ornate design flourishes. The city also buzzes with creativity, which spills over into the vibrant nightlife; the ruin bars district is a tangible example of crafting opportunity from the ashes of adversity following the brutality of Communist rule. November 2023 marks 150 years since the previously divided cities of Buda, Pest, and Obuda were unified, as well as a series of cultural events. The Chain Bridge—the city’s oldest and a “symbol of togetherness,” according to Mayor Gergely Karácsony—has fully reopened after a two-year restoration, granting excellent views of Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building. New builds such as the spectacular House of Music Hungary and the National Athletics Centre (the central stadium for 2023’s World Athletics Championships) are testament to a city with optimism for its next 150 years. The art deco W Budapest —formerly a palace and on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed street—opened in July 2023 opposite the Hungarian State Opera. Also in the Marriott portfolio is the Dorothea Hotel , with its 216 rooms and glamorous rooftop restaurant. In keeping with the musical events celebrating the 150th anniversary, the 2022 opening of the Hard Rock Hotel—Eastern Europe’s first—combines musical memorabilia (Prince’s faux-fur coat in a shade of, unsurprisingly, purple) with an in-thick-of-it location on Nagymező Street, Budapest ’s legendary louche entertainment strip. — Sarah Rodrigues

Carlsberg City District in Denmark

Go for: new-new-wave eateries in the city's district of the moment

Petit fours are served at Studio, a new restaurant from acclaimed chef Christoffer Sørensen. It joins a select set of eateries in the Carlsberg District.

From Studio's food, to fashion ateliers and design houses, Carlsberg is an intentional hub of creative newness in the beloved Danish city.

For 161 years, Copenhagen ’s sprawling Carlsberg brewery held its secrets behind closed gates. When Carlsberg moved away in 2008, a plan was hatched to transform the old site, with its patinaed spires and life-size elephant statues, into a showcase neighborhood. What attracts residents to the emergent Carlsberg District also charms visitors: copious green space, easy public transit, and an evocative mash-up of contemporary and repurposed architecture, anchored by cherry-picked restaurants and shops. At the light-flooded Coffee Collective , they like to serve two roasts at once to contrast the beans’ terroirs. Aamanns , the pioneer of modernized smørrebrød, is also here, along with Neopolitan pizzeria Surt ; Kona , a destination izakaya from former Noma chef Philipp Inrieter, and Studio , by Christoffer Sørensen, a Michelin Best Young Chef. Home designers Carl Hansen and Søn , by Adelborg and PP Møbler have arrived. Fashion’s Henrik Vibskov has also moved in, packing his atelier with kaleidoscopic garments, in contrast with the classic suits of Deerest nearby. In December 2023, the Carlsberg brewery itself springs back to life, with a state-of-the-art, interactive visitors’ center and the revival of its 1847 bar-room. Also to come are Friday summer parties in the courtyard and the unveiling of namesake Carl Jacobsen’s lavish gardens, open to the public for the first time since their 1890 groundbreaking. Afterwards, retire to the windowseat of your room at Hotel Ottilia overlooking the construction cranes. In a city that believes in livable density, you’re witnessing smart urban planning unfold. — Betsy Andrews

Costa de Prata, Portugal

Go for : boho openings in an unsung corner of the country

Drive north of Lisbon to the quiet Costa de Prata, where Areias de Seixo is one of several new hotels attracting an effortlessly cool crowd.

After bedding down at Areias de Seixo, hit the world-class waves lining the coast—like those Portugal's World Surfing Reserve in Ericeira.

Not as show-offy as Comporta , much less known than the Algarve and with more surfer vibes than the Costa Vicentina, Costa de Prata (Silver Coast) is the strip of Portugal ’s Atlantic seaboard that we are most excited about right now. Start a south-to-north road trip in Ericeira, where Aethos Hotels opened an outpost in which smart design is combined with laid-back coastal cool at the end of 2022. It was hot on the heels of Immerso , a hotel full of local crafts and the same truly Portuguese personality as new restaurant and beach club Balagan. Heading north, Areias do Seixo continues to be a benchmark for luxury stays on the Costa de Prata, while in Nazaré, where German surfer Sebastian Steudtner rode a world record wave of 86 feet, Ohai Nazaré has family-friendly glamping. A visit to Obidos , one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal , is the perfect excuse to stay at the bohemian Literary Man or, if golf is more your thing, check in at Marriott’s Praia D’El Rey . Along the coast, surfing hub Peniche has standout beaches, including Consolação, and is a great jumping-off point for the Berlengas islands, an increasingly less secret paradise. The road trip ends in Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal, where MS Collection Palacete de Valdemouro has just opened under the Small Luxury Hotels banner. There’s no doubt that the Costa de Prata is on track to take gold. — David Moralejo

Cyclades, Greece

Go for: salty-air island-hopping made easier than ever

Stylish boutique hotel Kalesma Mykonos is opening a spa in 2024, marking a hotel boom throughout the cluster of islands known as the Cyclades.

It will be easy to hop between Kalesma and islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Milos, and Ios, thanks to new flights to and throughout the dazzling blue archipelago.

Is there anywhere more popular than the Greek islands right now? This past summer, the Cyclades—an island group that includes Mykonos , Santorini , Paros, Milos, and Ios—dominated social-media feeds with beautiful blue and white backdrops, thrilling beach clubs and nightclubs, and unparalleled shopping. With more smart stays being unveiled in 2024, as well as new flights, next summer is the time to make a Cyclades trip happen. Etihad , British Airways , and Saudia added new routes to various Greek islands in 2023, plus the 2022 launch of Cycladic , the first inter-island airline, means it’s easier than ever to get there. Hotel business is booming. Santo Pure in Oia on Santorini has just added 20 new suites, and next year it will be joined by sister hotel Santo Mine, a 37-suite luxury resort. Slick boutique hotel Kalesma on Mykonos will launch its spa for the 2024 season, including a hammam and cryotherapy area. Five-star, 80-acre Gundari Resort will open on Folegandros next May, while a new One&Only property will come to Kea in April. Such plush hotels are rare on these islands, expanding the options for luxury stays in the Cyclades. — Ali Wunderman

Go for: new hiking and biking trails, pristine countryside views

Kosovo's untouched valleys offer the perfect canvas for multi-day hiking and biking trips—like the Trans Dinarica cycling route, opening in 2024, which will wind its way past rivers, markets, and via ferrata setups.

Tiny Kosovo lacks the stunning beaches of Albania and luxury resorts of Montenegro, but Europe’s newest country has sky-scraping peaks, pastoral countryside and heart-warming hospitality, a combination ideal for multi-day hiking and biking trips. 2024 will mark the 25th anniversary since the end of the Kosovo war, and there's much to discover in the region now. Following in the footsteps of cross-border adventure trails such as the Peaks of the Balkans and High Scardus, the Trans Dinarica cycling route opens in 2024, making its way past the minarets framing Prizren’s eponymous river, through the Ottoman market town of Gjakova, and on to Peja. Perched on the edge of the Rugova Gorge, Peja serves as base camp for the country’s many outdoor adventures, including via ferratas and spelunking. A new paved path will soon connect the Lumbardhi River Promenade with the popular Health Trail—the beginning of the south-to-west route through the inaptly named Accursed Mountains. Two additional forthcoming routes connect trails in the Rugova Mountains to the gushing White Drin waterfall and Radac cave. Steps from the waterfall, the sleek, modern Ujëvara e Drinit Resort specializes in rooms with a view and fresh trout dinners. Through-hikers can rest weary bones and fill hungry bellies further from town at rural guesthouses such as Ariu , where traditional Kosovar dishes include flija, made with dairy produced on-site. — Naomi Tomky

Mallorca, Spain

Go for: an outpouring of exciting new hotels across the island

Whether you're looking for poolside cocktails or art installations, beloved Mallorca has more where that came from in 2024.

The pool and gardens at Ikos Porto Petro, a sleek resort that opened in 2023 in Mallorca, add to the region's hearty roster of luxury stays.

The grande dame of the Mediterranean remains unrivaled thanks to its pitch-perfect brand of low-key luxury, exceptional service, and focus on sustainability. But in recent months, the Balearic island has added even more jewels to its crown; among them is Son Bunyola , Richard Branson’s latest hotel, in the Tramuntana Mountains. Not far from there, in the town of Puigpunyent, the team behind Andalucia’s stellar Finca Cortesin has opened Grand Hotel Son Net in a 17th-century manor house. Also adding to the excitement for 2024 is the slick styling of Ikos Porto Petro , farm-turned-boutique stay The Lodge , and Zel Mallorca —the first Zel hotel is a collaboration between Rafael Nadal and another homegrown big hitter, Meliá. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s also the Four Seasons , which takes over the much-loved Hotel Formentor; Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra; beachfront Aethos ; and Marugal, which has unveiled its second project on the island after Cap Rocat. Meanwhile, S’Arracer del Dimoni hotel will open in Santa Margalida, and Belmond La Residencia will continue its artists-in-residence program and the third edition of art installation Mitico, in collaboration with Galleria Continua. — María Casbas

Northern Italy

Go for: next-level cycling, need-for-speed motorsports, and a slow travel on a new train line

No longer second-fiddle to France, cycling holidays in Italy are taking off—and the north of the country is where all the action is unfolding in 2024.

For the first time ever, the first three stages of the Tour de France will take place in Italy in 2024, a historic moment for the country, the sport, and the prestigious race. Competitors will saddle up in Florence , head east towards Rimini on the Adriatic Coast , follow the Apennines north through Emilia-Romagna , and complete stage three in Turin . With their truffles and terroirs, Italy’s northern regions are best known for their gastronomic heritage, but two-wheeled pursuits have long been part of the landscape. The 1998 Tour de France champion Marco Pantani was born here, while professional racer Davide Cassani was instrumental in developing the Via Romagna, a nearly 300-mile network of cycling routes throughout the region. Now, tour operators have upped their game in time for the event: Tourissimo’s week-long cycle holiday is designed to provide guests with live-action access to the tour itself, plus the chance to conquer the hills and thrills of Emilia-Romagna. Ride International Tours and Ride Holidays have released new routes to reflect growing interest in the region, while the looping, leisurely route between Parma and Modena by Inn Travel leaves more time for sampling local delicacies along the way. Those more comfortable on four wheels will find the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix and the annual Motor Valley Fest , both in May, irresistible—this is the birthplace of Maserati, Ferrari, and Lamborghini after all—while those who prefer life in the slow lane can board new railway routes between Turin and Canelli with Fondazione FS ’s 1930s carriages or take Nightjet ’s overnighter from Verona to Liguria (via Milan and Genoa ). Make a final pit stop in Pesaro to find out why it’s been crowned the Italian Capital of Culture for 2024. — Anna Prendergast

Yorkshire, UK

Go for: star chefs leading a foodie revolution

The Abbey Inn is the latest Yorkshire opening from local foodie hero Tommy Banks—and with three luxurious bedrooms launched in summer 2023, you won't have to travel far after indulging at one of the many Michelin-star restaurants in the area.

For a bewitching break in 2024, go north. Yorkshire-born sculptor Henry Moore once said: “The observation of nature is part of an artist’s life.” And Yorkshire has some of the most seductive nature: sweeping landscapes like living oil paintings; undulating dales and peaks; deep-forested moors with big skies; heady lavender fields; lofty woodlands filled with birdsong; and golden sandy sweeps skirting the peppermint-blue sea. The Brontës’ romanticism is not lost. In 2024, go stargazing in Yorkshire’s national parks at the magical Dark Skies Festival . The Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta will return to its new home at Castle Howard in 2024, with rainbow-bright, early-morning mass balloon flights and night glows. There were plenty of Michelin mentions for the county in 2023, with keen eyes on the 2024 list, so restaurants with rooms are ramping up. Just up the road from The Black Swan in Oldstead, Michelin-lauded chef Tommy Banks’ latest outpost, The Abbey Inn , opened in May and its three luxurious bedrooms, care of Tommy’s mother, were launched in July. For the ultimate culinary sleepover, stay two nights and eat at both restaurants. Newbie Mýse , helmed by chef-and-sommelier couple Joshua and Victoria Overington, is a petite restaurant with rooms set among caramel-colored cottages in the sleepy village of Hovingham. Book in for its creative tasting menu, then retire upstairs to one of the cosy-cool rooms. In June, Middleton Lodge , a sustainable luxury retreat bordering the Yorkshire Dales National Park, launched the Forest Spa in the heart of a serenely wooded estate. Don’t pass by honeycomb-hued Helmsley, with its emerging culinary scene and the recent opening of Pignut —a restaurant with a sustainable focus and impressive casual and tasting-menu options. Expect plenty more magic in 2024. — Rachel Everett

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Europe Travel Guide

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These are the Most Visited Countries in Europe

As one of the most sought after holiday destinations the world over, Europe has so much to offer travelers. From drinking a pint of beer at the infamous Oktoberfest in Munich, to biting into a flaky croissant in Saint Germain as the daily life of Paris passes you by, this is Europe in all of its glory! And if you’re planning a visit to the continent, these are the most visited countries in Europe to help you plan your own adventure.

The most visited countries in Europe

Annual visitors: 89.4 million

It is perhaps no surprise that France is Europe’s most visited country. After all, there are so many reasons to explore and discover France! From the gastronomic delights of the French capital, Paris , to the wine region of Burgundy , there are too many regions in France to choose just one. But the good news is you don’t have to. Whether you prefer to take a road trip or use the train system, the best way to see France is to soak up as many of the regions as you can during your stay.

The best places to visit in France:

Paris, the City of Light

Annecy, the city of canals

Colmar, the fairytale town

The 20 best places to visit in France

Annual visitors: 82.7 million

If you love food and wine, then you can’t go wrong by visiting Spain. This country, the second most visited country in Europe, is a mecca for beautiful landscapes, sunsets, cities and towns. And if you ask us, there’s nowhere better to immerse yourself in the local cultures and customs than in Spain! From eating tapas to taking a mid-afternoon siesta, Spain is full of good times, especially if you are traveling with family or friends.

The best places to visit in Spain:

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia

Annual visitors: 62.1 million

Italy sees an incredible 62 million visitors per year and is unsurprisingly one of the most visited countries in Europe. There’s something so effortless about the Italian way of life, which is almost always centre around the stunning coastlines, beaches and coastal drives. Our favourite location (if we had to pick just one) would have to be the Amalfi Coast , which, despite its popularity, gives visitors one of the most authentic adventures in the entire country. But if you really want to know where the hidden gems are, then head further south to the boot of the country, where towns and cities retain their charm in spite of time and tourism.

The best places to visit in Italy:

These are the Best Small Towns in Italy to Explore

The Best Kept Secrets in Italy

A Quick Guide to Pisa, Italy

A Quick Guide to Siena, Italy

A Quick Guide to San Gimignano, Italy

The 12 Best Kept Secrets in Rome

Annual visitors: 45.7 million

There are too many reasons to love Turkey, but we’ll do our best to name them all! Starting with the incredible street food Turkey is so well known for, you’ll never want for more flavour as you taste your way around the country. From baklava (a personal favourite) to tasty kebabs, Turkish food is packed with flavour and flair. Ordering a meze is a great way to try a few things in one swing, with pita bread and flavoursome dips to equal the perfect combination of flavours and texture. Then there are the beautiful beaches, which until recent years, have remained somewhat of a tightly held secret by their locals. Then there are the Turkish baths, archaeological sites, epic museums, markets and most importantly, the friendly locals who are more than happy to show off their heritage, culture and customs.

The best places to visit in Turkey:

Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey

Annual visitors: 38.8 million

The next most popular country for visitors in Europe is Germany, with visitors favouring the likes of Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt and Cologne. But if you ask us, there are many more magical destinations within Germany to visit, including small towns like Bad Wimpfen, Quedlinburg, Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, among others.

The best places to visit in Germany:

10 Fairy Tale Castles to Visit in Germany

6. United Kingdom

Annual visitors: 36.3 million

With fascinating and seemingly endless history on offer, the United Kingdom has a lot to offer visitors (especially if you’re a history buff!) There are of course even more reasons to visit the United Kingdom, including visiting Europe’s most visited city, London, which has its own allure. But if you think a visit to the United Kingdom centres around colder temperatures and shorter days, think again. A visit to the United Kingdom during the summer months can be characterised by epic coastlines, adventure activities and day hikes.

The best places to visit in the United Kingdom:

These are the 12 most unique stays in the United Kingdom

The cutest villages in Cornwall to visit

The 20 Best Things to do in London

Annual visitors: 30.8 million

Austria is one of Europe’s top ten countries to visit, but that doesn’t mean it gets all of the credit it deserves. This Central European nation has some of Europe’s most beautiful cities, including Vienna (the capital) and Salzburg (home to the Sound of Music). But if you’ve made it all this way, be sure to visit Hallstatt, arguably Europe’s most charming lakeside town. Then there are of course plenty of ski fields to explore and discover, with significantly lower costs than neighbouring Italy or in France.

The best places to visit in Austria:

10 Places to Visit in Austria

How Salzburg Stole my Heart

10 Best Things to do in Vienna

Annual visitors: 30.1 million

Greece has long been a favourite holiday destination for travelers, with its many islands to experience and explore. The most popular destinations are Santorini and Mykonos, but locals will be the first to tell you there are many more islands to discover in Greece.

The best places to visit in Greece:

A Guide to Mykonos

A Guide to Skopelos

9. Portugal

Annual visitors: 22.8 million

With endless natural landscapes and equally beautiful coastlines to discover, Portugal is a sensory overload for nature lovers. Plus with cultural cities like Lisbon and Porto to discover, you’ll never run out of restaurants, bars, bakeries and cafes to discover on foot.

The best places to visit in Portugal:

8 Places you Must Visit in Portugal

Road Tripping the South Coast of Portugal

Visiting the Algarve: Portugal’s Most Loved Holiday Destination

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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The Top 10 Most Visited Countries in Europe

UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) data reveals a significant and steady increase in the influx of tourists to Europe, signalling a renewed enthusiasm for travel and exploration. This marked a notable difference, showing that nearly 90 per cent of the pre-pandemic levels of tourist arrivals have been met.

As tourists enthusiastically re-engage with the captivating beauty and cultural treasures of these destinations, countries such as France, Spain, Turkiye, Italy, the United Kingdom, and others are re-emerging as vibrant tourism centres, promising a glimpse of brighter days on the horizon.

Following, find the top ten most visited countries in Europe and why these countries are a magnet for tourists.

1. France – 100 million visitors

In 2023, France welcomed a staggering 100 million visitors, reaffirming its status as Europe’s most visited destination. This impressive figure represents not only a remarkable recovery from the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic but also the enduring allure of a country that has consistently captivated the hearts of travellers for decades.

Other than the obvious iconic destinations of the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre in Paris, France is also well known for the numerous palaces, castles and cathedrals all across the country. The Palace of Versailles, the Castle of Chambord and the Notre-Dame Cathedral are some of the most famous.

Mediaeval villages like the Pérouges, St-Émilion, St-Jean Pied de Port, coastal villages, snowy mountains, beautiful beaches and enormous outdoor markets have made every traveller place France on their must-see list.

2. Spain – 85.1 million visitors

Spain welcomed an impressive 85.1 million tourists in 2023, marking a remarkable recovery and earning the spot of the second-most visited country in Europe. And it’s no wonder why: Spain has 47 UNESCO World Heritage sites, picturesque beaches along both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, as well as beautiful cities with their vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.

Other than that, Spain’s renowned football teams and events like the Copa Del Rey championship also draw thousands of sports enthusiasts annually, adding to the number of visitors.

3. Italy – 57.3 million visitors

Almost 58 million people visited Italy in 2023, increasing from nearly 50 million in 2022 to 57.3 million – a 17.3 per cent surge.

Known for its countless castles, palaces, cathedrals, vineyards, and picturesque beaches, Italy offers a diverse range of experiences. All these millions of visitors flock to get a glimpse of the iconic Italian landmarks such as the Colosseum, Uffizi Gallery, and the romantic canals of Venice.

And, considering that Italian cuisine is arguably the most popular in the world, wanting to get a taste of authentic pizza and pasta is without a doubt one of the top attractions of Italy.

4. Turkiye – 55.1 million visitors

Turkey welcomed 55.1 million visitors in 2023, an increase of 9.3 per cent from 2022, when the numbers reached 50.45 million visitors. The uptick in tourist arrivals can be attributed to the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty Turkey offers, as well as its hospitality and affordability.

When in Turkey, tourists tend to visit popular destinations such as Istanbul, where the East meets West, iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, as well as the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia with its otherworldly rock formations and hot air balloon rides. Of course, beach-goers also flock to the coastal regions of Bodrum, and Antalya, and the pristine beaches and historic sites like Ephesus on the Turquoise Coast.

And last but not least, another major draw for tourists is naturally the Turkish cuisine, renowned for its kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delights.

5. United Kingdom – 37.2 million visitors

The United Kingdom, known for its historical treasures and diverse landscapes, has consistently drawn tourists. Visitor numbers reached 37.2 million in 2023, steadily inching its way to pre-pandemic numbers (39.4 million people visited in 2019 but dropped to 10.7 million in 2020).

The UK has iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Stonehenge. While London is a top destination, offering countless world-class museums, theatres, and a bustling nightlife, visitors also opt for charming cities like Edinburgh, Oxford, and Cambridge or to explore the scenery from the Cotswolds to the Scottish Highlands.

And of course, the iconic fish and chips and traditional afternoon tea are must-haves while in the UK.

6. Germany – 34.8 million visitors

Germany continued to attract tourists in 2023 with 34.8 million visitors, making it the sixth most-visited European country. Germany is known for its blend of modernity and tradition. Tourists can visit Berlin, the vibrant capital, and see historic sites like the Berlin Wall and the Brandenburg Gate, as well as a thriving arts scene and bustling nightlife.

In the fall, tourists flock to Munich to celebrate the iconic Oktoberfest and see stunning architecture, such as the Nymphenburg Palace. For those looking for cosy autumn destinations, the fairytale-esque Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria and the historic city of Dresden are also popular.

The country’s culinary scene, with the hearty sausages, pretzels, and world-renowned beer, adds to the allure. So, whether you’re exploring its historic cities or savouring its diverse cuisine, Germany offers something for everyone.

7. Greece – 32.7 million visitors

Greece welcomed a total of 32.7 million visitors in 2023. This European country is a constant favourite among travellers looking for a blend of history, natural beauty, and a lot of Mediterranean charm.

Greece’s most popular tourist destinations include attractions like the Acropolis in Athens, the historic city of Thessaloniki, the ancient site of Delphi, and the monasteries of Meteora. On the other hand, the islands like Santorini and Mykonos, and picturesque beaches, from Crete to Rhodes, attract young and old alike, looking for relaxing beach vacations and vibrant nightlife.

Greece’s Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, is an experience best enjoyed at the quaint seaside tavernas.

8. Austria – 30.9 million visitors

Austria, with its enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage, attracted 30.9 million visitors in 2023.

This European country is known for its charming cities and picturesque Alpine regions. Vienna, the capital, boasts countless historic palaces, museums, and classical music heritage, like the Vienna State Opera.

If you visit Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, you can expect to see a delightful blend of baroque architecture and natural beauty. The fairy-tale village of Hallstatt and the historic city of Innsbruck are also popular Austrian destinations.

And, of course, if you are an outdoor enthusiast, the Austrian Alps are a paradise: you can go skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.

9. Portugal – 26.5 million visitors

Over 26 million people visited Portugal in 2023, captivated by the stunning coastline, historic cities, and vibrant culture.

In Lisbon, the capital, you can explore historic neighbourhoods, like Alfama, and iconic landmarks, such as the Belém Tower, or visit nearby Sintra to see the fairytale palaces and lush gardens.

The city of Porto, which is famous for its port wine cellars and charming old town, is another favourite, while the Algarve region offers golden beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Portugal’s warm climate, friendly locals, and relative affordability compared to other EU countries make it an ideal destination for travellers looking for a blend of history, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm.

10. Netherlands – 20.3 million visitors

The Netherlands welcomed over 20 million visitors in 2023, a quarter (26.3 per cent) more than in the previous year. Tourists flock to the Netherlands to see the picturesque canals, historic houses, and famous museums (such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum).

The Dutch countryside with its iconic windmills, tulip fields, and cycling routes, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The historic city of Delft, known for its blue pottery, and the charming village of Giethoorn, with its idyllic canals, are also popular stops.

And, of course, one can’t leave without trying an authentic stroopwafel, preferably in a cosy cafe.

Discover the 10 Most Visited European Countries

About Europe

Europe, one of the world’s seven continents, covers approximately 2% of Earth’s surface, spanning 10,180,000 square kilometres. Although it is the second smallest continent in land area, it ranks as the third most populous, with a total population of 747.8 million residents as of 2021. In 2023, Europe is composed of 45 countries.

What are you looking for?

68+ europe travel & tourism statistics (latest 2024 data).

It’s no secret that Europe is home to some of the most popular places to visit in the world . With fascinating history, diverse cultures, and gorgeous natural sceneries, there is something to suit every type of tourist.

According to the UN, there are 44 countries in Europe with 27 of them listed as part of the European Union . 

That’s a lot of places to explore and get lost in!

France was the most visited destination in Europe as it saw over 79.4 million global tourist arrivals in 2022. 

Meanwhile, Paris welcomed 16.8 million international tourists in 2018 . It’s second in Europe only to London.

Today, we’re here to present some of the most interesting and crucial statistics about travel and tourism in Europe. From how much revenue this industry generates each year to the impact that recent pandemic had.

Here they are!

Sources : I’ve referenced individual sources after each stat. Please go to the bottom of the post for a full list of all the articles and sources I’ve used here.

Travellerspoint

Most asked questions about Europe travel & tourism

How many tourists visit europe each year.

In 2019, Europe recorded 745 million international tourist arrivals.

The pandemic caused international tourism to plummet in Europe, but the number has recovered to 595 million arrivals in 2022.

Roughly 4 in 10 baby boomers state that Europe is their first choice for international travel.

How much of Europe's economy is tourism?

In 2022, travel and tourism contributed $1,939 billion to the overall GDP in Europe.

This is an increase from the $1,450 billion contribution in 2021, but not yet recovered to its pre-pandemic levels.

Which country in Europe has the most tourism?

With 89.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2019 and 79.4 million in 2022, France is the most popular place to visit in Europe .

Both before and after the pandemic, France remains the most visited country in Europe.

What percentage of Europeans travel?

In 2021, 56% of Europeans participated in tourism in 2021, compared with 65% in 2019.

What's the least visited country in Europe?

According to Eurostat, Luxembourg was the least visited country in Europe by EU residents in 2019.

Europe Travel & Tourism Key Statistics

• Europe at large (both EU and non-EU) remains the most visited region in the world, accounting for 50% of the world’s tourist arrivals
• In 2022, travel and tourism contributed $1,939 billion to the overall GDP in Europe
• 61% of all international arrivals to the EU in 61% were for recreational purposes
• In 2020, the tourism industry generated, directly and indirectly, 34.76 million jobs
• In 2017, there were more female (59%) than male employees in the tourism industry
• In 2019, there were 717 thousand travel accommodation establishments in EU countries, which is a 69% increase from 2006
• In 2019, EU residents made 1.1 billion trips that included overnight stays
• Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, international arrivals in Europe plummeted from over 746 million in 2019 to just about 236 million in 2020

Inbound tourism in Europe

How many tourists visit Europe annually?

1. In 2019, Europe recorded 745 million international tourist arrivals.

[Statista] 

Europe receives the highest number of international arrivals compared to other regions, including Americas, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa.

2. The pandemic caused international tourism to plummet in Europe, but the number has recovered to 595 million arrivals in 2022.

In comparison, the Americas received 150 million international tourist arrivals in 2022, only 25% of Europe.

3. In July 2023, there were 89.8 million monthly international arrivals in Europe, roughly 7% lower than in July 2019.

This has exceeded the monthly levels of July 2020, 2021, and 2022, but yet to recover to pre-pandemic levels.

4. 6 of the top 10 most visited destinations by international tourist arrivals worldwide are located in Europe.

[Wikipedia]

This includes France, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Germany, and the United Kingdom in that order.

5. There were 36.4 million outbound trips from the US to Europe in 2019.

In 2019, there were 36.4 million trips from the US to Europe .

6. About 33% of these trips from the US were made to destinations in Western Europe.

11.9 million, or 33%, of these trips were to Western Europe. Central or Eastern Europe received the least number of outbound trips from the US at 4.3 million arrivals in 2019.

7. Europe at large (both EU and non-EU) remains the most visited region in the world, accounting for 50% of the world’s tourist arrivals.

Domestic tourism in europe.

How popular is Europe among domestic tourists?

8. In 2019, there were 682 million domestic arrivals in EU countries.

Domestic tourism continues to be more popular as this number steadily grows from only 491 million in 2008 to 682 million in 2019.

9. There were 187 million overnight trips in Europe made by French residents in 2019 alone.

Out of all EU countries, French residents have been the most active in domestic tourism in Europe. 

10. Germany is close behind as its residents made roughly 161 million domestic trips in 2019.

Domestic trips include both personal and professional purposes.

11. An April 2023 survey showed that French respondents were the most likely to take a domestic summer holiday trip. 

12. As of September 2023, the preferred destination among European travelers for their next European trip is France, with 7% of respondents planning to visit France on their next trip within Europe. 

After France, Italy and Spain followed in the ranking.

13. A survey in September 2023 revealed that 68% of respondents intended to likely or very likely take an overnight trip domestically or in Europe in the following six months. 

This percentage was a slight decrease from a similar study in March 2023, when 72% reported the same.

14. In 2022, the expenditure of domestic tourists in Europe was 1.13 trillion U.S. dollars just 0.5% lower than that in 2019.

15. in terms of domestic tourism expenditure of the eu-27 countries and the uk, germany had the highest figure in 2019 (320.9 billion u.s. dollars) and 2022 (317 billion u.s. dollars)., europe tourism and the economy.

How much revenue does Europe’s tourism generate?

16. In 2021, travel and tourism contributed $1,450 billion to the overall GDP in Europe.

From 2012 to 2019, the travel industry has steadily contributed an increasing amount of GDP in Europe, peaking at $2,191 billion in 2019.

17. Domestic tourism expenditure reached a record high of $1,222 billion in 2019.

Domestic travellers are important in Europe’s tourism industry as they spent $1,222 billion in 2019 alone, which is the highest number in recent recorded history.

18. In 2019, Spain was the second top tourism earner after the US, recording $79.7 billion in international tourism receipts.

Spain is the second country in the world that makes the most money from tourism. It recorded $79.7 billion in international tourism receipts in 2019.

19. France follows closely behind making $63.8 in international tourism receipts.

Why people travel to europe.

What motivates people to visit Europe?

20. 61% of all international arrivals to the EU in are for recreational purposes.

Holiday, recreation, and other leisure-related purposes are the most common reason for visiting Europe.

21. In the meantime, 15% visited EU countries for business reasons and 24% came to visit friends and relatives or other purposes.

Business travel makes up 15% of all visits to the EU .

22 Most international visitors arrive in Europe by air travel (57%), compared to 40% for land transport and only 4% by water.

Over half of all global visitors to Europe come through flights, while 2 out of 5 visitors arrive by land transport. Only 4% travel by water to Europe.

23. 62% of all residents in the EU went on a minimum of one personal trip in 2017.

In terms of domestic tourism in Europe, 3 out of every 5 EU residents took at least one personal trip back in 2017.

24. 11% of domestic trips to Europe in 2015 were for professional purposes, including business trips.

11% of all domestic trips in Europe in 2015 were made for professional reasons, such as business trips.

25. The European hotel market generated a revenue of 98.09 billion U.S. dollars in 2022, a significant improvement from 2020 and 2021.

26. the european region with the highest revenue in the hotel market in 2022 was central & western europe was, generating more than 61 billion u.s. dollars. .

The region with the second-highest revenue in the hotel market in 2022 was Southern Europe.

Tourism employment in Europe

How large is Europe’s tourism workforce?

27. In 2020, the tourism industry generated, directly and indirectly, 34.76 million jobs.

In 2022, there’s still a 8.5% decrease in tourism jobs in Europe compared to 2019 due to the Covid-19 pandemic .

28. Travel and tourism provided 37.98 million jobs in Europe in 2019.

29. in 2017, there were more female (59%) than male employees in the tourism industry..

The tourism industry has long been a major employer for women , especially considering that only 36% of employees in non-financial business economies in Europe were female.

30. The tourism labour force also tends to attract younger workers aged 15 to 24 (13%) and part-time positions (24%).

These statistics are much higher than those in the non-financial business economies and services sectors as a whole.

Popular tourist destinations in Europe

What are the most popular tourist destinations in Europe?

31. With 89.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2019 and 79.4 million in 2022, France is the most popular place to visit in Europe.

France, Spain (83.5 million), and Italy (64.5 million) recorded the most international tourist arrivals in 2019. The ranking changed slightly in 2020, with Italy receiving more international tourists than Spain.

Moreover, European travellers comprise 39.3% of the total tourist arrivals in Venice .

32. The capital city, Paris, welcomed more than 16.8 million international visitors in 2018, making it the second most visited European city after London.

Paris received over 16.8 million international visitors in 2018 and was the second most visited city in Europe.

It is second only to London, which receives the highest number of tourists that year .

33. In terms of bed nights, Spain is the most popular among international tourists, with 299 million nights spent in tourist accommodations in 2019 alone.

This number accounts to 22% of the total nights spent in tourist accommodations in Europe.

34. After Spain, Italy is the second most popular tourist destination for overnight stays in Europe. There were 221 million nights spent here in 2019.

When it comes to cities in Europe with the most overnight stays in 2019, Italy sits on the second place.

35. This is followed by France (136 million nights) and Greece (120 million nights).

36. all together, spain, italy, france, and greece dominate 57% of the total nights spent by international tourists in european tourist accommodations..

Spain, Italy, France, and Greece are the four most popular tourist destinations in Europe in terms of night spent in a tourist accommodation.

In fact, travellers from Europe make up the majority of overseas tourist arrivals in Rome (2.78 million) .

37. Meanwhile, the least popular EU destinations for tourists in 2019 were Luxembourg, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia.

38. in terms of region, international arrivals in southern/mediterranean europe has surpassed pre-pandemic levels in july 2023, while central/eastern europe experienced a 30% drop., accommodation in europe’s travel industry.

Where do tourists usually stay when visiting Europe?

39. In 2022, there were 621 thousand travel accommodation establishments in EU countries, a slight increase from the 617 thousand recorded in 2019.

The 621 thousand travel accommodations include RV campgrounds , hotels, short-stay accommodation, and trailer parks.

40. As of 2019, a majority of these (more than 479 thousand) were holiday and other short-stay accommodations, while 209 thousand were hotels and similar accommodation types.

The most common type of tourist accommodation in Europe is holiday/ short-stay vacation rentals .

41. In 2019, it was estimated that residents and international visitors spent a total of 2.87 billion nights in EU travel accommodation.

In 2019 alone, tourists in EU countries spent a total of 3.42 billion nights in accommodation establishments.

For budget travel, Kyiv is the cheapest city destination for backpacking, with daily costs amounting to an average of $37.69 .

42. In 2022, the number still has yet to reach its pre-pandemic figure, at just 2.74 billion nights spent in EU travel accommodations.

43. In 2019, Italy recorded just shy of 1.1 million bedrooms in hotels and similar accommodation. This is the highest in any country in Europe.

At 1.1 million individual hotel and similar rooms , Italy is the country in Europe with the highest number of bedrooms.

44. Germany and Spain are close behind with 993 and 934 million bedrooms respectively.

45. in terms of occupancy rate of bed places in hotels and other similar accommodation in eu countries, cyprus leads the chart with 71.8% of net occupancy rate..

Hotels and similar accommodation types in Cyprus recorded an astounding 71.8% net occupancy rate, the highest in any one country in EU countries.

46. Interestingly, despite having the second most hotel bedrooms in Europe, Germany had a pretty low occupancy rate of 45.7% in 2019.

47. in 2021, europe became the region with the highest glamping market worldwide, with 35.11% of market share..

[Grand Review Research]

Glamping is an up-and-coming industry and Europe seems to be the leading world region in terms of market share (35.11%) .

48. In 2022, most hotel market sales in Europe were made online (77%), which represents a steady growth since 2017 and is expected to continue until 2027.

Online booking has an increasingly large role in hotel market sales in Europe, with 77% of sales in 2022 made online .

49. There are 1.4 million Airbnb Hosts in the EU, the highest number in any region in the world.

Out of the 1.4 million Airbnb Hosts in the EU , more than 1.1 million have just one listing.

50. The average EU Host on Airbnb earned just below €4,000 in 2022, which is equivalent to over two months additional pay for the median EU household.

Outbound tourism by europeans.

How many European tourists go on a trip each year?

51. Almost two out of every three Europeans went on a tourism trip in 2019, but the percentage decreased to 56% in 2021.

52. in 2021 compared with 2019, 14 % or 35 million fewer europeans made tourism trips., 53. around 70% of these trips were made within their own country..

In 2021, nearly 7 out of 10 European tourists made only domestic trips.

54. In terms of night spent, Spain and Italy were the most popular destinations for European tourists.

The most popular destinations for tourists from Europe are Spain and Italy, where they spent the highest number of nights in 2019.

55. For non-EU destinations, the United Kingdom, Turkey and the USA had been the top choices.

56. eu residents spent an average of €421 per trip in 2019..

The average EU resident would spend €421 per trip.

57. In 2019, EU residents made 1.1 billion trips that included overnight stays.

EU residents went on a total of 1.1 billion trips which included overnight stays to both domestic and international locations in 2019 alone.

58. The contribution of travel and tourism to Europe’s GDP fell significantly in 2020, from $2,191 billion, to roughly 50% of the number in 2019.

The average European solo traveler spends €285 for their flight and hotel .

59. The EU country that travels the most is Switzerland, with 82.2% of the population travelling in 2021.

Sweden is on fifth place, with 78% of its population participating in tourism in 2021.

Meanwhile, Ireland takes 8th place with 72.3% of the population travelling in 2021 .

60. On the other end of the spectrum, the country that participated the least in tourism in 2021 is Bulgaria (22.7% of population).

61. residents aged 65 or over represented 25% of the eu population aged 15 years or older, they accounted for only 17% of eu tourists..

Still, this 17% equals to a significant number of 36 million tourists.

Covid-19 and Europe’s tourism

How has the pandemic affected travel & tourism in Europe?

62. The contribution of travel and tourism to Europe’s GDP fell significantly in 2020, from $2,191 billion, to roughly 50% of the number in 2019.

Due to the recent pandemic, the total contribution from the travel and tourism industry to GDP in Europe decreased dramatically in 2020 from 2019.

63. Domestic tourism also fell from $1,167 billion in 2019 to $668 billion in 2020.

Domestic tourism expenditure in Europe decreased by roughly 43 percent in 2020 over the previous year, due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

64. International arrivals in Europe plummeted from over 746 million in 2019 to just about 236 million in 2020.

65. the number of international tourist arrivals dropped by 97% in april 2020 compared to april 2019. .

Travel to and from countries was restricted as the virus spread, resulting in a sharp drop in arrivals across the region.

66. In May 2021, international tourist arrivals have more than quadrupled since the same month in 2020.

However, this figure of 12.1 million arrivals is still much below the 64.2 million from May 2019.

Travel companies in Europe statistics

67. the 'package holidays' segment of the travel and tourism market in europe is expected to achieve a +1.66% growth in number of users between 2023 and 2027, reaching a record-high of 134.52 million users., 68. as of june 2023, oriental land co. ltd is the travel and leisure company with the largest market cap in europe, valued at 54.83 billion u.s. dollars..

Flutter Entertainment PLC and Evolution AB followed, each with a market capitalisation of roughly 27.76 billion U.S. dollars.

69. In Europe, Lufthansa became the airline which carried the highest number of travelers in 2022, with 101.8 million passengers in total.

Turkish Airlines was in second place, with a total of 71.8 million passengers in 2022.

As home to some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, it will not be a surprise if tourism in this region only grows from now on.

While the recent Coronavirus pandemic has caused some major setbacks in terms of GDP and tourist arrivals in these countries, it does seem that things are looking brighter.

Once the world has recovered even more from this trying time, we believe that people looking for a getaway will look to visit various European destinations. As such, the number of domestic and international visitors will surely rise again soon.

We hope this post is thorough enough for you to learn more about tourism in Europe.

Can you think of other questions or aspects of Europe’s travel and tourism that we haven’t covered? Feel free to comment below!

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• European countries with the highest number of inbound tourist arrivals 2019-2023

The number of international tourist arrivals in Europe rose significantly in 2023 compared to the previous year across all the most visited destinations in the region. Overall, France was the most visited country by inbound travelers in Europe in 2023. That year, France - which also topped the ranking of the  countries with the highest number of international tourist arrivals worldwide - reported 100 million international tourist arrivals, the highest figure recorded by the destination to date. Spain, Italy, and Turkey followed on the list in 2023. 

Europe is the most popular region for inbound tourism

Europe is the region with the highest number of inbound tourism arrivals worldwide , with over 700 million arrivals in 2023. Comparatively, there were nearly 240 million international tourist arrivals in Asia and the Pacific, the second-most visited global region by inbound travelers that year. When breaking down  the number of inbound arrivals in Europe by sub-region , Southern and Mediterranean countries reported the highest figures, both before and after the impact of COVID-19.

Travel & Tourism Development Index

France and Spain, among the most popular travel destinations in Europe in terms of inbound arrivals, were also among the leading countries in the Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI). The TTDI index measures factors and policies that support a sustainable and resilient development of travel and tourism worldwide. In 2023, Spain ranked first with a TTDI score of 5.18, followed by France and Germany.

Countries with the highest number of international tourist arrivals in Europe from 2019 to 2023 (in millions)

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2019 to 2023

countries are ranked based on the highest number of international tourist arrivals in 2023

Figures are periodically updated by the source and might differ from the official UN Tourism rankings as they are based on the available data for the selected years.

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Americans Must Pay For New Visa To Enter Europe In 2025

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• Americans previously never needed a visa to enter Europe. However, US citizens must soon apply for authorization and pay a new visa waiver through ETIAS to enter Europe starting in 2025.
• This new requirement applies to 30 countries in the Schengen Zone to enhance travel safety.
• Applying online in advance and paying the fee ensures swift authorization for ETIAS, which is valid for three years.

Americans who traveled through Europe this summer could be among the last to do so without a new travel requirement. While places like Türkiye have lifted visa requirements for Americans , the European Union wants to add a layer of protection to travelers by requiring citizens of countries outside of the EU, including Americans, to pay for a new visa waiver to enter Europe in 2025.

While many European countries like American visitors , that fondness and eagerness to get them to spend their tourist dollars will not exempt US passport holders from the new visa waiver. Next year, countries in the European Union's Schengen Zone will be participating in the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

This means that places Americans could go this summer without a visa , including beautiful beach destinations that did not require a visa , will require one starting next year (rather, it's a visa waiver, not an actual visa).

In total, 30 EU countries will require American travelers to submit an application to be processed by the European Travel Information Authorization System, in addition to having a valid passport. While this may seem like an unnecessary step, a few dollars and a quick application process seem like a small price to pay for the ultimate goal of keeping travelers safe and maintaining better border controls.

7 Countries Americans Can't Travel To

Americans can travel to many exotic places around the globe. Some countries, however, are off-limits.

The European Travel Information & Authorization System Is The New Visa Waiver Americans Must Pay For

Americans who want to travel to the 30 countries in the schengen zone must have an authorization processed through etias.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is the new travel authorization that Americans must pay for in 2025. While a US passport was enough to travel to 30 countries in the Schengen Zone in the past without a visa, visa-exempt travelers who plan on spending up to 90 days in these countries must now take an extra step to travel to Europe.

For the rest of 2024, Americans can continue to travel to Europe without ETIAS. The new travel authorization is supposed to go into effect in mid-2025. This date is to give the new Entry/Exit System being installed in Europe time to go live and work out any hiccups. However, given that the ETIAS start date was delayed in 2021, 2023, and again in 2024, it remains to be seen if the program will truly go live in 2025.

The goal of ETIAS is to make travel safer in Europe . As such, it is not just Americans that are being singled out for the new travel requirement . Nationals of 60 other countries will also have to apply for ETIAS when traveling to Europe.

While this visa waiver was not required of Americans in the past, it is very similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) that the US already requires of other countries' nationals before they travel through the States. Consequently, the concept of ETIAS is not a new thing. It is just new to Americans who used to have all the documentation they needed to travel the world with a passport alone.

10 Visa-Free Countries You Can Visit With Just A Passport In 2024

With the 7th strongest passport in the world, US citizens can choose 187 visa-free travel destinations.

Countries That Will Require European Travel Information & Authorization System In 2025

Countries like france, italy, spain, and more will require americans to obtain etias authorization (and have a valid passport) to be granted entry.

30 countries will require Americans and other visa-free travelers to apply for ETIAS, starting May 2025. Fortunately, once ETIAS has been granted, it is valid for all countries in Europe that require it for three years . As a result, it does not need to be applied for again for every European country visited.

The countries that will require ETIAS to enter in 2025 include:

Be advised that Americans will need to meet specific travel authorization requirements to be allowed entry if traveling to countries outside those requiring ETIAS. This includes both the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

12 Countries That Offer Walk-In Visas

Find out which countries offer walk-in visas for tourists. Some of the countries on this list are more tourist-friendly than others.

How To Apply For The European Travel Information & Authorization System Visa Waiver

A quick online application and an $8.00 processing fee are all it takes to receive authorization from etias to enter the eu.

In order to apply for ETIAS, American citizens will need to fill out an online application . This will need to be completed in the weeks before traveling. Some will have their ETIAS application processed and approved in hours, but most will have their ETIAS application authorized in less than a week.

However, in some instances, it can take longer. Therefore, it is recommended by ETIAS.com that the sooner ETIAS is applied for, the better.

"A small percentage of applications may take up to four weeks to process if additional documentation is required from the applicant. If your ETIAS has not yet been approved, and you do not have any other travel authorization, you will not be able to enter a country within the European Union." - ETIAS.com

Given that ETIAS is valid for three years, it may be worth applying and paying the $8.00 fee sooner rather than later to have the ETIAS portion of the travel documents completed and checked off the to-do list if there is a desire to travel to any of the countries in the Schengen Zone in that timeframe.

To ensure there are no issues with the authorization process, Americans need to ensure their passport is not only valid but will not expire within three months of applying for ETIAS . If getting a passport for the first time or renewing a passport, that needs to be done and a new passport in hand before ETIAS will be approved.

The last thing travelers want to do is add another item to their checklist when traveling abroad. However, by having ETIAS go live in 2025, Americans and others traveling to Europe will be that much safer, which is a concern for many traveling abroad today.

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Holiday warning as Greece told it must change its tourism model

Greece is among europe’s hardest-hit countries by global warming, article bookmarked.

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Greece has been put under pressure to reimagine a tourism model that climate change is making increasingly untenable.

With its turquoise waters and reliable sunshine, the country has long been a popular holiday destination, attracting nearly 33 million visitors last year and generating 28.5 billion euros in revenue.

This year’s total visitor numbers are expected to rise further, as global tourism sets new records from pre-pandemic levels, but the surge in holidaymakers could undermine the economic mainstay in the near future.

Anger over “overtourism“ has even sparked protests in recent years on the beaches of the Cyclades, a collection of Aegean islands.

“People in Greece are getting more concerned that the (Cycladic islands) are changing very rapidly and, in a few years, what is special is going to be lost,” said Dimitris Vayanos, an economist at the London School of Economics.

Greece is not alone. Residents in other popular European destinations say visitors are harming the environment and local economies, particularly as short-term rentals from home-stay websites like Airbnb drive up housing costs and price people out of their towns and cities.

But Greece is among Europe’s hardest-hit countries by global warming, and rising sea levels, scorching heatwaves, erratic rainfall and frequent wildfires are changing the landscape.

Tourism is placing an extra burden on scarce water resources and threatening fragile coastal environments, leading to calls from local authorities and the national ombudsman to regulate construction, restrict tourist flows and invest in water management and infrastructure.

The government has to balance mitigating these threats against protecting critical tourism earnings. Tourism contributes between 62.8 billion euros and 75.6 billion euros to the Greek economy, roughly a third of gross domestic product annually, according to the Hellenic Tourism Business Association (INSETE).

A law in July updated regulations for tourism agencies, guides and rentals that Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni has said will make the country a “global tourism power” part of “critically important” efforts to safeguard the industry and benefit the economy.

But climate change poses existential questions for the industry.

A lengthy heatwave in June, followed by the hottest July on record, forced tourist attractions to close and caused a spate of heat-related deaths.

Wildfires, made more intense and frequent by hotter, drier weather linked to climate change, also threaten the tourism industry. A massive blaze earlier this month came within miles of the capital Athens.

Last year, more than 8,000 forest fires raged across the country, and thousands of tourists had to be evacuated from islands, including Rhodes.

“What we want to see is that tourism is sustainable or even regenerative. It has to invest in conservation of the ecosystem, and it has to assist with the cost of managing the tourists on the ground,” said Megan Epler Wood, director of the Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP) at Cornell University in the United States.

The ombudsman, a Greek official who investigates public complaints, said in a June report the country needs to reduce construction and protect water resources and coastal areas to maintain healthy tourism.

It warned of the growing environmental risks from tourism, particularly the additional demands on water supplies for drinking, swimming pools and water parks.

A pilot study, carried out by Greek researchers and UNESCO, the U.N. cultural agency, found that smaller islands in the Aegean Sea already need double the amount of water they can naturally produce to meet demand from tourists, which is set to increase twofold by 2030.

“The more these islands are developed, the less attractive they will be to visitors,” said Vayanos.

Greece should tailor tourism to make it more compatible with environmental standards, including the use of zoning, and concentrate development in specific areas, he said.

The introduction this year of a tourist tax, dubbed the climate resilience fee, is meant to help finance recovery from worsening forest fires and floods.

The fee for guests staying in hotels and short-term rentals is expected to generate up to 300 million euros in additional revenue in 2024.

But Epler Wood said that historically, tourist taxes have gone towards destination marketing rather than benefitting local communities. Research by STAMP found water, waste, energy utilities and affordable housing often did not gain at all.

The Central Union of Greek Municipalities (KEDE) is calling for the revenue from the tax go to local government to help them manage tourists.

There is also little evidence that tourism taxes reduce arrivals, according to a report by strategy company Group NAO.

Nikos Zorzos, the mayor of Santorini, wants to cap the number of daily cruise-ship visitors at 8,000 from as many as 17,000 people.

The impact of climate change in Greece is not limited to rising temperatures and other extreme weather events.

Coastal erosion and declining seagrass meadows, which help give the Mediterranean Sea its characteristic turquoise colour, were identified in addition to floods, water shortages, high temperatures and drought as threats to tourism in an INSETE report.

“As summers will be hotter, extending the tourist season should be a priority by designing high-quality offerings to attract visitors throughout the year. Only in this way can we ensure sustainable and competitive tourism for Greece,” an INSETE spokesperson told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

INSETE also recommends promoting biodiversity-rich tourism to help generate finance for conservation and promoting alternatives to beach holidays, such as agritourism, gastrotourism, wellness and health and adventure tourism.

“We’re beginning to see a switch towards management of tourism, away from just promotion,” said Ben Lynman, at the Travel Foundation, an NGO that works with governments, businesses, and communities to develop and manage tourism.

Investing in renewable energy or protecting coastal areas and vulnerable infrastructure would also have long-term benefits for the tourist destination, said Epler Wood.

“It can be a positive influence that can help transition countries to a less risky and more resilient future.”

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