What are the must-see destinations and the best places to visit in Europe? Do such places exist at all? We have created 42 categories of the best European places to need to travel to. Ready to learn more about top to-go places in Europe?
Let’s face it, there are many great places to visit in Europe! But what is the best place? The one which makes you WOW!
Europe is a stunning and diverse continent so it’s probably not possible to create a list of those few best places. Whether you love beaches, islands or romantic places, there are many beautiful places in every corner of Europe.
So, is your favourite place in Europe amongst our best European categories?
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN EUROPE:
1. Best places to visit in Europe for beaches
Papagayo Beach
Of all of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote is perhaps the most popular for tourists to visit. The volcanos of the island certainly give Lanzarote a different kind of feel to the standard paradise that people picture for their holidays.
Papagayo beaches are hugely varied; with some of them hosting golden, silky sands, and others taking on the volcanic attributes that turn the sand black.
Praia do Camilo
Found in Algarve, Praia do Camilo is not only a charming bay with blue-green waters but also one of the best beaches in Algarve. There’s a set of wooden steps that lead down to the beach, and several restaurants are within good distance to the bay (one of which is right next to the entrance).
Tourists can book onto several different experience tours while in the area, including two-hour-long tours of the local beaches and caves with wine tasting.
Learn more about the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
2. Best places in Europe for a springtime trip
Crete
The springtime is the best time to visit Crete for a number of activities – especially hiking! Crete is one of the largest islands in Greece, with its own archaeological sites, harbours, nature trails, and more.
Spring brings beauty to the island as all of the gardens across Crete are in full bloom, and the air turns warmer. More tourists tend to appear during the summer months, so there are more perks to visiting earlier in the year, too.
Keukenhof
Keukenhof is said to have the most beautiful spring gardens in the world. It’s best to visit during the early morning on a weekday to have a better experience without too many people around. More than seven million flower bulbs are planted in the garden every year.
Guests will experience views of the millions of blooming Dutch tulips in the height of spring while visiting one of the largest flower parks in the world.
Learn more about where to go in Europe in spring.
3. Most romantic places to visit in Europe
Santorini
One of the Greek islands, Santorini lies in the middle of the Aegean Sea. The island is known for its active volcano and the awe-inspiring sunsets that can be seen on the horizon. For a romantic trip to this island, couples should check out Akrotiri on the southern tip of Santorini.
From there, travellers will have a break-taking view of the island’s volcano, and the hotels around the area are fairly inexpensive when compared to others on the island.
Venice
Venice is known as one of the most romantic cities in the world. It’s popular for families, couples on a getaway, and for those going on their honeymoon.
A ride down the Grand Canal on a gondola may seem like a cliché, but there’s nothing more beautiful than seeing the sights of Venice from a boat while you and your other half tour around the city.
If you have the time, swing by Alaska for the best gelato in Venice.
Learn more about the most romantic destination in Europe.
4. Best places in Europe to admire beautiful landscapes
The Azores
The autonomous region of the Azores is one of only two autonomous regions in Portugal. The other being Madeira. The best time to visit is the period between April and November.
The other months of the year can be somewhat cold and rainy, which aren’t the best for viewing the stunning landscapes of the area. The calm waters of the island’s crater make for perfect pictures that any budding photographer will be able to take.
Austrian Alps
The dramatic sights of the Austrian Alps aren’t something that you can just take in for a moment or two. No matter where you look, there are valleys, mountains, and huge stretches of land to explore.
In the summer, one of the most beautiful places to stay is Alpbach, a resort of wood and stone that looks like something out of a fairytale.
Learn more about where to find the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.
5. Best winter sun destinations in Europe
Gran Canaria
Not everyone is a fan of the colder weather during the winter months, so it’s no surprise that travellers start to migrate towards warmer countries. Gran Canaria is a part of the Canary Islands, and is one of the warmest of the islands, next to Tenerife.
While Tenerife is better for tourist destinations, Gran Canaria is better for exploring and hitting the beach for a great afternoon in the sunshine.
Malta
The Republic of Malta can be found in the Mediterranean Sea, just south of Italy’s Sicily. The island-state consists of three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Malta is the biggest of the three and is famous for its UNESCO architecture, festivals and diving.
Even during the typical winter months, you can still expect high of around 16 to 17 degrees Celsius – which is certainly warm enough for anyone wanting to give diving a try.
Learn more about the best winter sun places in Europe.
6. Best paradisiacal destinations in Europe
Lofoten Islands
Lofoten is known for its natural attractions. From these stunning islands, you can experience the beauty of the northern lights, as well as the midnight sun that carries the islands through late May to the middle of July every year.
This area is great for fishing, and visitors are also welcomed to kayak between the islands.
Zakynthos
With a shoreline that could inspire anyone, Zakynthos is a Greek island that shines amid the blue waves of the ocean. This island is home to rural villages, expansive natural areas, and long beach shores.
One of the most mesmerising things about Zakynthos is the Blue Caves, which are found in the northern part of the island. These caves can be visited by boat or you can book onto an organised tour with ease.
7. Best places to visit in Europe for an autumn trip
Dubrovnik
If you find yourself in Croatia, there are few locations more beautiful than the city of Dubrovnik. The cable car offers utterly perfect views of the Old Town and runs from the top of the low mountain Srđ to Petra Krešimira IV.
It’s around £6 for an adult to take a round-trip on the cable car. From the upper cable car station on the mountain, you can find the Panorama Restaurant.
Ronda
Within the Spanish province of Malaga lies Ronda, a small village that is part of the Sierra de las Nieves National Park. Some of the top sights that visitors enjoy going to are the three bridges: Puente Romano, Puente Viejo, and Puente Nuevo.
The three bridges run across the canyon, with the tallest of them towering around 120 metres off of the canyon’s floor.
8. Best places in Europe to explore islands
Capri
The island of Capri is known for its natural beauty and its superb cuisine – a must-visit in Italy. The Piazzetta is a famous public square found on the island, where the clock tower chimes every 15 minutes throughout the day.
There are several cafés with charming furnishings that add to the atmosphere of the island. There’s also the Faraglioni, a rock formation of considerable size, which is one of the first sights to see as you arrive on the island.
Lanzarote
The perfect island getaway, Lanzarote has been a popular tourist destination for many years. Travellers can enjoy the numerous beaches on this island pretty much any time of the year, with the average water temperature being almost 20 degrees Celsius.
Though the beaches in Lanzarote are often raved about by guests, there are plenty of other attractions to keep tourists interested in their visit; including the National Park, the Cactus Garden, and more!
Learn more about the best islands in Europe.
9. Best places in Europe to explore bridges
Lucerne
Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge lies across the river Reuss in central Switzerland. It’s one of Lucerne’s main tourist attractions, and it does have an interesting history. On August 18th 1993, a fire on a boat under the bridge spread to the Chapel Bridge itself.
Reconstruction began immediately and the bridge was restored. Some of the best ways to experience the bridge are to book onto a guided tour that includes the bridge on its itinerary.
London
London Bridge is one of the most popular destinations in the city of London. The London Bridge that exists today is one of the modern editions.
London Bridge has existed in one way or another for almost 2000 years, and even today’s London Bridge still stands in the same location that every other London Bridge has.
Learn more about the most famous bridges in Europe.
10. Best places in Europe for visiting castles
Pembroke Castle
Located in Pembroke, Wales, Pembroke Castle was once the family seat of the Earldom of Pembroke. At present, it stands as a Grade I building and had major restoration completed in the early 20th century.
Today, this beautiful castle allows visitors to come and reach out to history. Tickets should be purchased from the Gift Shop on the day of visiting, and the castle is dog-friendly!
Windsor Castle
A castle that everyone seems to know, even if they haven’t had the chance to visit it yet. Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest castle in the world – and it’s one that’s still occupied today!
William the Conqueror originally founded the castle during the 11th century. Since then, 39 monarchs have called Windsor Castle their home.
11. Best places in Europe to see beautiful towns
Interlaken
Thrill-seekers, rejoice! There is a place for you where you can find a number of activities to live your life to its fullest. Interlaken, found in Switzerland, has a range of adrenaline-pumping activities for your enjoyment.
These include river rafting, skydiving, and bungee jumping! Interlaken is among the most popular summer holiday resorts in Switzerland because of its spectacular attractions.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you’ll find this destination bustling with tourists.
Found nestled at the bottom of several huge mountains, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is most famous for hosting the Winter Olympics back in 1936, as well as the International Alpine Skiing Championships of 1978 and 2011.
With that in mind, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is perhaps the greatest place in the world for snow sports.
12. Best places in Europe to see Christmas markets
Vienna
Ah, Vienna. The largest city in Austria, Vienna is famous for its blend of traditional and modern architecture, as well as its cultural events that are spread throughout the year.
The Christmas Markets that run in Vienna are plentiful, and any visiting guest will be sure to find the festival lights of the city to be warm and cheerful. Their Christmas Market traditions date all the way back to the Middle Ages.
Funchal
On Madeira Island, within the boundaries of beautiful Portugal, you can find Funchal. Funchal is the capital of Maderia and has been said to host the best Christmas Markets in the region.
Thousands of guests flock towards the capital to experience the traditional market that Funchal hosts every year.
13. Best places to visit in Europe for amusement parks
Tivoli Gardens
Admission into the Gardens in Copenhagen does not include any of the rides in the theme park. They are, essentially, two separate entities. You can pay for an unlimited ride wristband, which greatly reduces the cost for this fantastic amusement park.
There are plenty of wonderful rides for thrill-seekers or for those who prefer more gentle rides. One of the most popular rides is “The Demon”, which offers three loops on its track.
Siam Park
One of the best waterparks in the world, Siam Park in Tenerife has some of the craziest waterslides that guests will ever experience. Siam Park is also home to the Mai Tai River, which is the longest lazy river in the world and has both a fast and a slow route.
The whole park is extremely accessible and is packed with waterfalls. There’s even an area that’s exclusively for younger guests.
14. Safest places to visit in Europe
Brasov
As the seventh-largest city within Romania, Brasov provides a wonderous mix of scenery. From mountains to old architecture, and a nearby castle that people across the world know of – the castle of Count Dracula, which is just 30km from the city.
Brasov is one of Romania’s most visited cities and is rated with a fairly low risk for travellers. The crime rate is low, there are no major conflicts, and there are plenty of other tourists.
Malaga
Malaga is considered to be one of the safest locations in Spain to visit. Like Brasov, the crime rate is low, and numerous travellers have stepped forward to say that they feel perfectly safe walking around Malaga at night.
The Old Town, in particular, has plenty of people partying until around midnight. So, there’s plenty of time for exploring and taking in the local sites.
15. Best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Europe
Prague
Like many major cities, Prague comes alive at the end of the year for a huge party. Whether the guests are locals or tourists, everyone comes together to celebrate the coming of a new year.
Prague is known for its nightlife, its beauty, and its history. Thousands of people from across Europe, and the rest of the world, to visit this golden location.
London
London has a great nightlife and plenty of hostels and hotels that can play host for guests coming in from around the world. Grab a group of good friends, your significant other, or your family, and come and see London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display. If you only wish to visit London for one day, this ONE day has to be New Year’s Eve!
There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, clubs, and cafés that are open on New Year’s Eve, ready and waiting to help you celebrate the New Year with a roaring celebration.
16. Best honeymoon destinations in Europe
Lisbon
A fantastic location for your honeymoon, Lisbon is simply teeming to the brim with architecture, exquisite food, and an atmosphere that will make you and your beloved one want to say “I do” all over again.
Sunset is an especially spectacular time of day and highlights the true beauty of the city. One of the most popular hotels for couples is the Olissippo Lapa Palace, which has its own pool, and fantastic ratings from its guests.
Positano
Why wouldn’t you and your other half want to take your honeymoon in Italy? Positano rests on the Amalfi Coast and isn’t as well-known as other popular Italian destinations like Rome and Venice. As such, you should find plenty of time to yourself when visiting.
The charm of this coastal paradise makes for a wonderful break. There are several villas and hotels along the coast that will gladly help you make your honeymoon memorable.
17. Best places to visit in Europe for museums-lovers
London
Museums are often a staple part of visiting any city for a trip. Tourists flock to them to learn about the history of the place and gaze at all of the wonderful artefacts that have been discovered and displayed over the years.
In London, there are a number of museums, though the most important or most popular ones are the British Museum and the National Gallery. There are plenty of free museums throughout the city, too.
Amsterdam
If you’re a museum fanatic, you’ll be happy to know that Amsterdam offers its own kind of museum card for tourists that can be ordered online before or during your visit to the city.
It’s a great purchase, that will save you tonnes of money on entry fees into some of the best museums in the world. Similarly, there’s the Amsterdam Museum Card, which allows guests to enter 400 museums across the Netherlands.
18. Best places in Europe to visit national parks
Triglav National Park
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Slovenia, the Triglav National Park allows guests to do everything from swimming to fishing. Triglav National Park is the only National Park in Slovenia, and it was established back in 1981.
The park is named after Slovenia’s tallest mountain and lies fairly close to the Austrian border. Visitors are welcome to explore the rivers and lakes or hike through the many trails that the park offers.
Hohe Tauern National Park
The Hohe Tauern is more than a park, it’s a National Park with over 10,000 species of animals that call the park home. Hohe Tauren is a sanctuary for animals and people, alike. Drive the Grossglockner High Alpine Road or visit other stunning places in this part of Austrian Alps.
There’s really plenty to explore here, or guests can have a tour of the National Park that’s guided by one of the park’s own Rangers. Take in the sight of 1,800 different kinds of plant, the rolling hills, the towering trees. Truly, the National Park is full of relaxing scenes.
19. Best places to visit in Europe to remember WWII
Normandy
The Normandy Invasion, also known as D-Day, is still widely remembered and memorialised. There are several facilities and locations around Normandy, France, where one can learn about D-Day.
Some of the more popular places include the Juno Beach Centre, which was where Canadian soldiers first landed on D-Day, and the World War II Museum.
Hel
Located in Poland, the Museum of Coastal Defence is one of the top attractions in Hel. Tour guides are very adept at their jobs, and you’ll leave your tour with a number of informative facts about the history of Hel and the Polish Navy.
The museum was originally founded by the Friends of Hel society and first opened to visitors back in 2006.
20. Best city break destinations in Europe
Bratislava
History lies in the streets of Bratislava. Tradition and culture have seeped into the water that flows gently down the River Danube.
This city is extremely safe for travellers, and the locals are all very friendly, too. Bratislava is a flourishing location, great for short or long breaks.
Copenhagen
Travellers who appreciate fashion, culture, and cuisine will quickly fall for the charms of Copenhagen. This Danish capital city is home to one of the most famous restaurants in the world: the Michelin-starred Noma.
That’s not all, though! Copenhagen has plenty of landmarks, like the Tivoli Gardens.
21. Best places in Europe to get retired
Brittany
When people reach the age of retirement, they often wonder where the best place for them to spend their more relaxing years would be.
People who live in France for a while often find themselves wanting to return, and Brittany has much to offer for retired folks. Having a small, friendly community is great for retirement.
Algarve
Algarve has great real estate options for anyone wishing to retire in the area. Moving to a new country should be an adventure, and not something stressful, which is why so many people enjoy the vibrant communities of the city, where newcomers are welcomed by the locals with open arms.
With so many great beaches in Algarve, the village of Boliqueime, in particular, is a great place for retirement.
22. Best places to visit in Europe for Easter break
Fuerteventura
If you prefer a cooler climate, the best time to hit up Fuerteventura is around April. Most tourists typically visit during the more tropical months of summer, so the area isn’t as crowded during Easter.
Easter Holy Week celebrations are among the most popular festivals that take place in Fuerteventura and include colourful parades, as well as days of feasting on delicious local foods.
Amalfi Coast
As long as you aren’t visiting for the typical summer beach vacation, you’ll find that Amalfi Coast is a great place to spend your Easter holidays. April is, without a doubt, one of the best months to take a trip to the area in Italy.
The spring flowers are in bloom across Amalfi, and the weather is a manageable temperature for guests visiting from countries that don’t experience much sunshine.
Source of the Cetina river
The reservoir that is the source of the river is over 150 meters deep. The Cetina River is the most water-rich river in Dalmatia, flowing 63 miles from its source to the Adriatic Sea.
To find the source of the river, in all its majesty, simply head to the north-western slopes of Dinara. The spring can be found near the village of Cetina.
Schafberg mountain
One of the greatest ways to view this hidden gem is to take the cog railway up the mountain to reach the highest point you can go to. This just happens to be over 1780 meters high. The cog-railway is the steepest one in Austria, and it takes 35 minutes to reach the summit. Schafberg mountain really is stunning!
Go on a clear day, and be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. There’s even a hotel at the summit that guests can book to stay at.
24. Best places to visit in Europe for nature lovers
Swiss Alps
Switzerland is well known for its natural beauty. There are few places in the world that you can find such varied landscapes in such a small place. Whether you decide to traverse around the country on foot or take to the rivers by raft, you’ll find plenty of intense horizons to take in.
For the best views, head northeast to the Swiss National Park. You’ll be treated to icy mountains, mystical-looking lakes, and bountiful woodlands.
Iceland
Iceland is known worldwide for its fantastic views. Iceland is one of the few countries where you can clearly see the Northern Lights. They are best viewed in Reykjavik, either at Seltjarnarnes or Perlan.
But if you’d rather try places outside of Reykjavik, Thingvellir gives you a great view of the lights over the national park. For a nature lovers dream, head to the black sand beach Reynisfjara in the town of Vik or drive the Golden Circle.
25. Best places to visit in Europe for hiking
The High Tatras
Hiking the High Tatras in Slovakia is both relaxing and challenging. The mountains are jagged, and the terrain of the trails can be rough – it’s the perfect walking adventure.
If you aren’t up to hiking to the tallest mountain in Poland, there are plenty of easier walking routes around the alpine lakes. Thankfully, one of the highest mountain peaks can be accessed by the cable car. For skiing, visit in winter. For hiking, summer and early autumn is perfect.
The Dolomites
The Dolomites are a mountain group in the eastern area of the northern Italian Alps. There’s no real “best time” to visit the Dolomites because the area looks amazing all year, and the temperature remains moderate even when the rest of Italy is feeling the true heat of the summer sun. In winter, you can experience skiing and mountain climbing, while paragliding is more popular during the summer.
One of the best hiking trails is the Adolf Munkel Trail, which is great for families and scenic views.
Learn more about the best places to hike in Europe.
26. Best medieval destinations in Europe
Colmar
Colmar is a beautiful medieval village that can be found in France. Its old town has been well-preserved for many years, and there are plenty of awe-inspiring pieces of architecture to be found in this small area.
The village considers itself to be the capital of Alsatian wine and is situated right on the Alsatian Wine Route. Many visit Colmar and Strasbourg on the same day and choose to stay in Colmar overnight.
Bruges
Situated near the city of Brussels, Bruges can be accessed by train or car with ease. The city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which isn’t surprising when you consider how much of Bruges has retained its medieval architecture.
In medieval times, Bruges was known as commercial capital, thanks to its location in the very heart of Europe.
27. Best fairy tale destinations in Europe
Bled
Bled Island, also known as “Fairytale Island” is a perfect little destination. Rent a boat, and take the 20 minutes to row out to the island and experience it in the most natural way. Ring the bell while you’re there; locals believe this is good luck, and previous guests always suggest doing so, too.
The island has a church, a coffee shop, and a castle. From afar, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into another world.
Hallstatt
Take a tour around the Hallstatt mountain, with stories and history told by your own experienced tour guide! You can, of course, explore by yourself – but many prefer an itemised tour where they can experience a lot of the area in a small amount of time.
Hallstatt is at the heart of the Salzkammergut region and features the main view of Alpine Austria. There’s also a chance to enjoy a lift on the Hallstatt Skywalk and be lifted over the lake for even more spectacular views.
28. Best road trips in Europe
The Military Road
Anyone who enjoys visiting old military bases will find the Military Road to be quite interesting. This road was originally built by German prisoners during the Second World War, and runs the length of the Isle of Wight’s southern coast, from Freshwater to Chale.
By starting at Freshwater, anyone on a road trip will be able to begin their journey with some great food from the local eateries.
Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse
Austria’s highest view will have you gasping in admiration! Since the construction of the High Alpine Road, visitors of the Grossglockner can now drive around the mountains, rather than only being able to hike.
The road blends in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Learn more about the best road trips in Europe.
29. Best places in Europe to watch dolphins & whales
Azores
In the Azores, guests can swim with several species of dolphin. Companies that host such activities typically allow guests to swim with dolphins several times during the three to four hours they’ve booked.
There’s also plenty of opportunity for whale watching, particularly on Pico Island, where whales and dolphins have a high number of species diversity.
Tenerife
Whales and dolphins are magnificent creatures, so it’s no wonder that visitors to Tenerife can find themselves on a three-hour boat trip to take in the sights of one of the ocean’s greatest mammals swimming nearby.
If you’d rather be closer to the action, there are also facilities that will let you swim with dolphins or play ball with them.
30. Best film locations in Europe
Oxford University
The Harry Potter Trail will tour you around the many parts of Oxford and Oxford University that were used in the filming of the Harry Potter movies. One such location is Bodleian Library at Oxford University.
Inside this library, you’ll find several smaller libraries. Duke Humfrey’s Library was used as the Restricted Section of Hogwarts Library during the first film.
Located not far from the capital city, Oxford is one of the best destinations for day trips from London.
Skellig Michael Island
After the release of Star Wars: A Force Awakens and The Last Jedi, many visitors from around the world came to Skellig Michael Island for a taste of the island’s rustic allure.
Skellig Michael Island is a twin-pinnacled crag that can be found on the Ring of Kerry in Ireland. It was on this island that Star Wars fans met Luke Skywalker once more.
31. Best blue-water destinations in Europe
Brac island
Brac doesn’t get as many tourists as the southern islands of Hvar and Korcula, but this is actually quite a positive thing. Not only do the streets remain uncrowded, but the authenticity of the island remains unaffected, too.
The waters surrounding Brac Island are so blue that they look like they’ve been pulled out of a tale of fantasy. There are several beautiful beaches to visit on the island, including the famous Golden Horn Beach.
Zakynthos
A Greek island with magical-looking waters, Zakynthos is one of the more exotic islands that surrounds Greece. This island is home to Shipwreck Beach, which is just 20 minutes away from the Blue Caves – named for the turquoise-blue water that can be found in their depths.
The colour of the water is perfectly natural and makes for breath-taking pictures.
32. Best mountain destinations in Europe
Jungfrau
Jungfrau is a well-known mountain peak in Switzerland, which overlooks the Lauterbrunnen valley. The mountain separates Bern and Valais and is a part of the Bernese Alps.
Jungfrau is over 4000 metres tall and is home to one of Europe’s highest railways. The railway cuts through Eiger and Monch with a tunnel that is 4.4 miles in length.
Zugspitze
Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain peak, reaching almost 3000 metres above sea level in height. This mountain is home to Germany’s highest ski resort, as well as three separate glaciers.
During half of the year, the resort opens up for anyone who wants to take to the slopes for skiing and snowboarding. For other guests, there are stunning views for you to look across the country from its highest point.
33. Most beautiful lakes in Europe
Lake Bled
Lake Bled can be found in Slovenia and can be easily accessed from Slovenia’s capital. Ljubljana is so close to Lake Bled, that you’ll feel like you’re in the wrong place. You can get to the lake from the capital in less than 30 minutes!
Not only are the views spectacular but there’s also a castle on a mountain, which has its own wine-tasting events.
Eibsee lake
Found in Germany, Eibsee Lake is a gorgeous alpine lake that makes the world around it come alive in the best ways. Viewed at sunrise or sunset, the glow of the sun through the trees is a spectacular sight.
It’s best to visit anytime between May and September to enjoy the true beauty of the lake and surrounding area.
34. Most beautiful wonders of Europe
As Catedrais Beach
More commonly known as “Cathedrals Beach”, Catedrais is perhaps the best-kept secret of the Galicia area and one of the best beaches in Spain. The beach is a natural wonder, only revealing its true self when the ocean pulls away from the cliffs.
There are plenty of small caves that run along the shore, and the structure of them is what gives the beach its name.
Verdon Gorge
This French canyon can be found in upper Provence. Verdon Gorge is the deepest gorge in France, and one of the must-see wonders of the country. There are places along the lower end of the gorge that allow visitors to hire boats and kayaks to take out and tour the area with.
From its source near Italy, Verdon Gorge runs to Castellane in the south, and towards Manosque in the west.
Learn more about the best natural wonders of Europe.
35. Best weekend getaways in Europe
Barcelona
Barcelona has been a weekend party destination for many years. Tourists flock to this Spanish city all-year-round, hoping to catch a glimpse of the nightlife that Barcelona is known for. But it’s not all booze and clubs, Barcelona is a great city to walk through.
From medieval alleyways to the Boqueria market to Park Guell! There’s more than enough for visitors to do.
Nice
When people want to visit France, they immediately think of Paris. But Nice is the perfect place for a quick getaway that isn’t in the middle of France’s hustle and bustle. It really is one of the best places to visit in southern France.
The Chateau of Nice is a major part of the city’s roots, dating back to the 11th century. Near the Chateau, there are plenty of green spaces to wander around in, and you’ll only be a stone’s throw away from the nearest museum.
Learn more about the best weekend getaways in Europe.
36. Most famous landmarks in Europe
Brandenburg Gate
Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate was erected in the 18th century, on the order of Frederick William the Second. It is Berlin’s most famous landmark, being a symbol of the division that existed between Berlin and Germany during the Cold War.
Today, it stands for peace and unity and hosts part of the world’s largest New Year’s party with its yearly fireworks.
Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is something that every child learns about at school. The structure has had years of tourists standing in front of it, pretending to push it back up or being the reason it’s falling over – a must-see in Italy!
In reality, it’s a freestanding bell tower which was unfortunately constructed on ground that was too soft. It’s been leaning since the 12th century.
37. Best villages to visit in Europe
Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk in Malta is a beautiful village that is definitely worth visiting. If you get the chance, the best time to wander the streets is at sunset, when you can catch a glimpse of the sun setting into the horizon behind the colourful, traditional fishing boats tied to the harbour.
It’s a small village, easily handled on a day trip if you’re nearby.
Castle Combe
One of the most gorgeous villages of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is the perfect destination for tourists. The cottages and overall look of the village give it an old-timey feel, and it certainly is a more rustic village than others in England.
The village is just a short drive from several major and historic cities, though Castle Combe isn’t without its own history. It really is one of the most beautiful villages in England!
Learn more about the best fairytale villages in Europe.
38. Best places to visit in Europe for cliffs
Seven Sisters Cliffs
With its name coming from the seven hilltops that make up the silhouette of the cliffs, the Seven Sisters Cliffs are a stunning part of the Country Park. The cliffs have an unusual white colour, which is naturally produced due to the chalk that makes up most of the face of the cliffs. Located in the south of England is one of the top places on any UK bucket list!
The Country Park is made up of around 280 hectares of chalk cliffs and it is one of the best places for hiking near London.
Cape Saint-Vincent
The cliffs of Cape Saint-Vincent rise almost straight up from the Atlantic sea to a staggering 75 (or so) meters high. Each of the cliffs has a varying altitude, but the smallest is still 60 metres tall.
The dramatic cliffs have a mystical feel to them, which is perhaps for the windswept surroundings that make up the Cape. A must-see on Algarve coast in Portugal!
39. Best gorges in Europe
Matka Canyon
Located in North Macedonia, Matka Canyon covers approximately 5000 hectares of land. The canyon is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Macedonia and has been called a natural paradise by many.
In looks, this canyon shares some similarities with Verdon Gorge in France.
Cheddar Gorge
Somerset’s famous Cheddar Gorge is a limestone gorge located in Mendip Hills. The gorge is the home of the Cheddar show caves, and both are designated as areas of outstanding natural beauty, protected by UNESCO.
The cliffs of the gorge rise up to 450 foot, and the caverns would have been originally created by the melt-waters of the Ice Age.
40. Most stunning sunsets spots in Europe
Positano in Amalfi Coast
The best place to watch the sunset in Positano would be at the end of the Sorrento-Penninsula. Find a small village by the name of Termini, which is around 45 minutes from Positano – a beautiful part of Amalfi Coast.
If you’d prefer to stay in the village, you might be surprised to know that the picturesque photos of the sunset are typically taken from the roads near the hotels in the village.
Seljalandsfoss
There are so many wonderful places in Iceland that would produce perfect sunset photos. For Seljalandsfoss, the best place to go would be the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall on the southern coast.
It’s a shot that everyone seems to put a unique spin on, and the colours caught through the water are simply inspiring to look at.
Learn more about the most beautiful sunset spots in Europe.
41. Best waterfalls in Europe
Levada das 25 Fontes in Madeira
Levada das 25 Fontes is a channel that can be found in Paul da Serra in Madeira, Portugal. This Levada is one of the most visited Levadas on its entire island, and its path leads to the incredible Risco waterfall.
The Risco waterfall emerges from the lagoon and is actually several small waterfalls that travel down the mountainside.
Skógafoss
Skógafoss is a waterfall that can be found on the Skógá River in southern Iceland on the Golden Circle. The water’s drop is around 60 or so metres and spreads across 25 metres in width.
You can walk right up to the fall, but you should be prepared to come away completely soaked. There’s even a legend of a treasure chest hidden at Skógafoss from the year 900.
42. Most beautiful squares in Europe
Salzburg (Kapitelplatz)
Salzburg Square is architecture at one of its finest points. Not only is the square home to fountains, historical buildings, and monuments, many of the buildings also take on a cuboid-like structure.
The square’s shopping centre offers unique dining experiences with an old-world setting and a Bavarian-style. There’s plenty to love about Salzburg square, from its local bakeries to the towering pieces of architecture that overlook the square.
Venice (Piazza San Marco)
Like many older cities, Venice has hidden gems tucked away in corners for visitors to find and admire. In one such corner, right by the water, and found through the winding alleyways is Piazza San Marco. Also known as St. Mark’s Square, this area is Venice’s main public square, and contains two of the city’s famous buildings: St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
The queues for these are always out the door and then some, but both are beautiful representations of Italy’s history. There isn’t much in the square, itself, but there are plenty of shops and restaurants as you start heading back through the streets again.
Learn more about the most beautiful squares in Europe.
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