30 MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN EUROPE

Europe, the cradle of civilization, is dotted with places that take your breath away. From bustling metropolises with a rich history to quiet villages with picturesque nature, every part of this continent offers something unique. But which places are really the most beautiful? We have selected 30 destinations for you that should be on your travel bucket list.

1. Dolomites in Italy

The Italian Dolomites, with their mountain peaks, charming towns and picturesque lakes, are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe . During the summer months, it's a tourist paradise that attracts people of all ages and ability levels. Chairlifts take hikers to some of the highest peaks, so you can get some truly breathtaking views with very little effort.

Source: https://viaggi.corriere.it/europa/italia/dolomiti/

Top experiences:

· Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most popular hikes in the Dolomites

· A popular hike is the Puez-Odle Altopiano

How long should you spend in the Dolomites?

The Dolomites can be visited on a day trip from Venice or Verona. For the best experience, plan to spend at least two to three days here. In the summer months, you have enough time to ride the cable cars, enjoy the view and go hiking.

2. Santorini, Greece

The island of Santorini is a remnant of an ancient volcano . What remains is the rim of the caldera, and along that rim are some of the most photogenic places in Europe.

Oia is one of the most beautiful places on Santorini. Cascades of white buildings dotted with blue domed churches and windmills form an amazing backdrop for photographers . When the sun goes down, this place looks even more magical as the buildings glow pink, orange and yellow. It's an incredible sight.

Best experiences:

· Take a sunset cruise

· Explore the towns of Oia, Imerovigli and Fira

· Visit beaches with red, white and black sand

· Get an aerial view of the island from Profit Ilias

How long should you vacation in Santorini?

Three days in Santorini is the perfect time to explore the cities, visit the beaches and watch the sunset.

3. Norwegian fjords

Southern Norway is laced with fjords, waterfalls, mountains and some of the most exciting hiking trails in Europe . This is a beautiful place to visit and one of the best European travel destinations. You can explore the fjord by boat, train, car and on foot. And there are ways to combine all these modes of transportation into one epic Norwegian vacation.

Source: https://www.fjordnorway.com/no/reiseinspirasjon/fjorder-i-norge-de-mest-beromte-fjordene

Best experiences:

· Visit Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

· Cruise the fjords by ferry or cruise ship.

· A trip to Pulpit Rock , Kjeragbolten and Trolltunga

How long should you stay in Norway?

We recommend spending at least 7 days in this region of Norway. This gives you enough time to visit Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, as well as cruise the fjords and go hiking.

4. Paris, France

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Grand boulevards, architecture, parks and gardens, street cafes and monuments, all combine to create one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Source: https://www.eunews.it/en/tour-eiffel-2/

Best experiences:

· Enjoy the view from the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe.

· Visit the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay and Notre Dame Cathedral.

· Walk along the Champs-Élysées and along the River Seine.

· Visit Montmartre, have lunch in a street cafe and dine on French cuisine.

How long should you vacation in Paris?

Plan ahead for the best experience 3 days spent in Paris . This will give you enough time for great experiences and getting to know this wonderful city.

5. Algarve, Portugal

Algarve is a beautiful coast of southern Portugal. Not only can you relax on the beaches, but you can explore the towns that dot the coast, go hiking, play golf, and explore limestone caves.

Source: https://www.portugal.net/en/algarve/

Best experiences:

· Relax on the beach at Praia do Camilo

· Visit the cities of Faro, Lagos and Tavira

· Visit Ponta da Piedade

· Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and visit Benagil Cave.

How long should you spend time in the Algarve?

Plan to spend at least three days here, giving you plenty of time to visit several beaches and small towns. For the best experience, spend one week in the Algarve.

6. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1600 mile road that winds along the west coast of Ireland. Driving the Wild Atlantic Way is an ambitious trip . If you stopped at every lookout and explored every nook and cranny of the Wild Atlantic Way, it would take more than a month.

Source. https://www.hogansirishcottages.com/blog/your-guide-to-the-wild-atlantic-way/

Best experiences:

· Ring of Kerry

· Dingle Peninsula and Cliffs of Moher

· Some of the sights on the Wild Atlantic Way

How long should you spend on the Wild Atlantic Way?

Driving along the Wild Atlantic Way takes at least three days, but it hardly gives you enough time. Plan to spend at least five days cruising along the coast for the best experience.

7. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of the most photogenic cities in Europe. This was the only major Eastern European city to survive World War II without being destroyed by bombs. With Gothic towers, ancient cathedrals and the largest castle in the world, Prague is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe.

Source: krasyprirody.cz

Best experiences:

· Walk across the Charles Bridge

· Visit the Old Town Square

· Climb the towers

· Look at the clock

· Visit Prague Castle

How long should you vacation in Prague?

Three days will give you enough time to visit Prague. If you have more time, you can go on a day trip to nearby smaller towns.

8. Mont Saint-Michel, France

Mont Saint-Michel is an island located in northern France . This island is surrounded by medieval walls and on top of it there is an ancient village and an abbey. Most of the time it is surrounded by sand, but when the tide is high, Mont Saint-Michel looks like a floating island.

Source: wikipedia

Best experiences:

· Visit the abbey

· Take a photo of Mont Saint-Michel at high tide

How long should you stay in Mont Saint-Michel?

It is possible to visit Mont Saint-Michel on a day trip from Paris, but for the best experience, plan to stay overnight in one of the nearby towns.

9. Istria, Croatia and Slovenia

The Istrian peninsula is a wedge-shaped peninsula located in northwestern Croatia and western Slovenia . Istria does not have the same level of popularity as southern Croatia, but this also means that Istria is much less crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds that flock to Dubrovnik, Hvar and Split, but still enjoy exceptionally beautiful seaside scenery and charming towns, consider visiting the Istrian peninsula.

Source: Solis Porec

Best experiences:

· Visit seaside towns Rovinj , Pula, Poreč, Piran and Koper

· Brave individuals can try jumping from the cliff to Cape Kamenjak

· Visit the Roman ruins

How long should you vacation in Istria?

You can visit the most famous sights in three days. More time will allow you to slow down and enjoy this unique part of Europe.

EXIsport tip:

The sea and the beach invite you to sunbathe and swim. If you want to shine on a summer vacation by the sea, choose a stylish bikini or men's swimwear .  Whether you prefer a classic or sporty cut, you will find the right swimwear for you in the EXIsport e-shop.

10. Keukenhof, Netherlands

During the months of April and May, Keukenhof is a wonderland of blooming daffodils, tulips and hyacinths . It is beautiful and well worth a visit if you plan to be in Amsterdam during these months.

Source: https://keukenhof.nl/en/news/succesvol-seizoen-keukenhof/

Best experiences:

· Walk around the gardens and take lots of photos

· Go shopping in gift shops

How long should you spend at Keukenhof?

With transport to and from Amsterdam, a visit to Keukenhof takes about half a day.

11. Rakotzbrücke, Germany

Rakotzbrücke, also called the Devil's Bridge, looks like something out of a fairy tale. The Rakotzbrücke was built in 1860. The entire bridge is man-made, including the jagged, rocky towers at either end of the bridge and the pointed rocks that sit in the lake.

Source: https://www.rakotzbruecke.de/dabluv-most-nemecko/

How to visit Rakotzbrücke:

Rakotzbrücke is located in Rhododendronpark Kromlau near Gablenz in Germany. You can get here on a day trip from Berlin or Dresden.

12. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira is a small Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, west of Morocco . Madeira's landscape, hiking trails, beaches, food and wine attract more than a million tourists a year.

Source: https://www.plumguide.com/journal/travel-guide-madeira

Best experiences:

· Explore the city of Funchal

· Swim in lava pools

· Visit black sand beaches

How long should you holiday in Madeira?

For the best experience, plan to spend at least 7 days taking in the sights, hiking the trails, and enjoying the spectacular views.

13. Isle of Skye, Scotland

With its dramatic coastal scenery, picturesque towns and lush countryside, the Isle of Skye is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. It is a great destination for people of all ages. This compact peninsula is easy to explore by car and has enough short hiking trails to really appreciate the beauty of this place.

Source: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/inspiration/guides/isle-of-skye/

Best experiences:

· Hike to the Quiraing

· Look Old Man of Storr

· Taste whiskey at Talisker Distillery

· Tour Dunvegan Castle

· Visit the Fairy Pools and Fairy Glen

· Watch the sunset at Neist Point

How long should you holiday on the Isle of Skye?

We recommend three days to ride the Trotternish Loop, visit Dunvegan Castle and hike some short trails.

14. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar, with its cobbled streets, old stone buildings, towers and minarets, looks like it was torn from the pages of a storybook . The unique stone bridge that spans the Neretva River is the center of the city . Not only is it fun to wander the streets, but the shopping and cafes make this city a joy to visit.

Source: www.wikipedia.sk

Best experiences:

• Take a photo of Stari Most
• Wander through the old town
• Visit the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque
• Go shopping in the old bazaar

How long should you stay in Mostar?

It is ideal if you spend two days and one night in the city. With an overnight stay, you can explore Mostar at sunset.

15. Cinque Terre, Italy

Five colorful, dazzling cities plunge down coastal cliffs into the Mediterranean Sea. Not only is it a wonderful place to explore in Italy, it's also one of the best places to visit in Europe.

Source: https://www.touristitaly.com/cinque-terre-travel-guide/

Best experiences:

· Explore five towns: Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare, Manarola and Corniglia

· Swim in the Mediterranean Sea

How long should you spend in Cinque Terre?

For the best experience, plan at least two or three nights in one of the five cities. In one full day, hike or take the train to connect all five cities. If you have more time, relax on one of the beaches or take a day trip to Portofino.

16. Kirkjufell, Iceland

Kirkjufell is the most photographed mountain in Iceland . Its unique chevron shape, coastal location and isolation from other mountains make it a very unique place to photograph. A series of waterfalls are an amazing photo tip.

Source: wikipedia.com

How to visit Kirkjufell

Kirkjufell is located on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. Kirkjufell can be visited on a very long day trip from Reykjavík , but for the best experience, plan one or two nights on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. This gives you plenty of time to capture Kirkjufell at sunset or sunrise if you're a photographer, and to explore the peninsula's other amazing sights (of which there are many).

17. French region of Alsace

Located in eastern France, the Alsace Wine Route is a wonderful mix of fairytale towns and picturesque vineyards. The Alsatian Wine Route is where France meets Germany. This mixture of French and German culture is also reflected in the architecture and cuisine. Cobbled streets are lined with colorful houses. Add flower decorations, whimsical decorations on buildings and charming street cafes and you really feel like you are walking in a fairy tale.

Source: https://www.france.fr/en/destination/alsace-lorraine/

Best experiences:

· Visit a long list of Alsatian towns (Colmar, Ribeauville, Riquewihr and Eguisheim are some of the best towns)

· Explore the Chateau du Haut-Koenigsburg

· Dine on Alsatian cuisine and visit wine bars

How long should you vacation in Alsace?

3 days on the Alsace Wine Route will give you enough time to visit several of these charming towns and explore the countryside.

18. Gdansk, Poland

Gdansk is a beautiful city located on the coast of the Baltic Sea . Many travelers to Poland often overlook it in favor of more popular cities like Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw. However, its colorful streets, easy walkability and collection of historical monuments make this city an underrated gem in Europe.

Source: https://www.myguidegdansk.com/

Best experiences:

· Walk the Royal Road

· Enjoy the view from the town hall tower

· Visit the Church of St. Maria

· Walk along the Motlawa River

· Look for the gargoyles on Mariacká Street

· Visit the European Solidarity Center and the World War II Museum

· Full-day trip to Malbork Castle

How long should you vacation in Gdansk?

Gdansk can be covered in one day on the fastest itineraries. However, if you want the best experience, plan to spend at least two to three days here. This will give you plenty of time to explore the old town, visit two of the best museums in Poland, and enjoy a meal at some amazing restaurants.

19. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

High mountains, alpine meadows, high cable cars, historic cogwheel trains, picturesque hiking trails, picturesque villages ... The Swiss Alps top the list as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe.

Source: https://alpen-erleben.com/schweiz/alpen-erleben/sommer

Best experiences:

· Explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley

· Ride the cable cars to Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn

· Visit Zermatt and take the train to Gornergrat with a view of the Matterhorn

· Visit the Alpine towns of Mürren, Wengen and Gimmelwald

· Go hiking on the trails during the summer months and spend time on the ski slopes in the winter months

How long should you stay in the Swiss Alps?

As long as possible. The quickest way to visit Switzerland is to take a day trip to the Alps from Lucerne, Zurich or Lausanne. Honestly, spend as much time as you can here.

EXIsport tip:

Do you love hiking, high mountains and picturesque meadows? If you answered yes, then the Alps are the right destination for you. When tackling hiking trails, always wear sturdy trekking shoes that protect your feet. Kayland hiking boots are among the top trekking footwear. They are durable, stable, waterproof and breathable at the same time. Kayland outdoor shoes with Vibram soles are a support for hiking expeditions.

20. Costa Brava, Spain

This rocky coast in northeastern Spain is known for its small towns and rugged coastal scenery . The Costa Brava stretches from the border of France to the city of Blanes. Thanks to its great weather and beautiful beaches, it is a top holiday destination for many Europeans.

Source: https://www.theintrepidguide.com/costa-brava-travel-guide/

Best experiences:

· Go on a wine tour

· Visit the city of Girona

· Relax on the beach in Lloret de Ma

· Dine on Mediterranean cuisine

· Visit the Dalí Theater-Museum

· Explore the Natural Park of Cap de Creus and Cadaqués

How long should you stay on the Costa Brava?

It is possible to take a day trip to the Costa Brava from Barcelona, but a few extra days will give you more time to sample the cuisine and explore the small towns.

21. Hallstatt, Austria

This small town with perfect surroundings is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. Hallstatt has become one of the most popular places in Austria in recent years . Expect large crowds during the summer and early fall. However, with the right planning, it can be a magical place to visit.

Source: wikipedia.com

Best experiences:

· Walk around the old town

· Enjoy the view from the World Heritage Skywalk

· Visit the salt mines

·  Visit the ossuary in Hallstatt

How long should you spend time in Hallstatt?

You only need a few hours to walk around the city. For the best experience, plan an overnight stay to enjoy these picturesque streets.

22. Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten Islands are without a doubt one of the most amazing places. With rugged coastlines, small harbors dotted with red fishing huts, winding mountain roads, exciting hiking trails and beaches that look like they belong in the Caribbean, northern Norway is a joy to explore.

Source: https://gofjords.com/inspiration/norway/10-photos-that-make-you-want-to-visit-the-lofoten-islands/

Best experiences:

· Choose from amazing hiking trails (the most famous is Reinebringen, but there are many others to choose from)

· Explore the white sandy beaches

· You live in a rorb

·  Explore fishing villages

·  Dine on fresh fish and seafood

·  You can see the Northern Lights during the winter months

How long should you stay in the Lofoten Islands?

You need at least two full days to visit Lofoten. Four days is even better, but every day you add to your itinerary gives you more time to explore the region and some contingency time in case the weather turns bad (which is a very real possibility here).

23. Boka Kotorska, Montenegro

Kotor Bay resembles the fjords of Norway or New Zealand with green cliffs immersed in the blue water of the bay. A two-lane road winds along the edge of Boka Kotor, passing through small towns and villages.

Source: https://explore-balkans.com/cultural-heritage-of-the-balkans-boka-kotorska-edition/

Best experiences:

· Visit Perast

· Take a boat to Panna Mária in Skály

· Explore Kotor

· Hike the Kotor Ladder

· Climb the city walls of Kotor for breathtaking views

How long should you spend time in the Bay of Kotor?

Two days is just enough time to visit the peaks. Add a few days to a day trip to nearby coastal towns and the interior of Montenegro.

24. Venice, Italy

Venice is romantic, historic and beautiful. Canals, gondolas, architecture and the colorful towns of Murano and Burano make Venice one of Europe's most beautiful places to visit.

Source: https://www.italia.it/en/veneto/venice

Best experiences:

· Wander the streets of Venice

· Visit Saint Mark's Basilica

· Climb the Campanile di San Marco and enjoy Venice from a bird's eye view

· Walk across the Rialto Bridge

· See the Doge's Palace

· Take a day trip to Murano and Burano and ride a gondola

How long should you spend in Venice?

Two to three days are ideal for exploring the most interesting places of Venice and for walks off the beaten track.

25. Faroe Islands, Denmark

Northwest of Scotland lies an archipelago of rugged mountains and dramatic waterfalls. For photographers and outdoor adventurers, the Faroe Islands are a must-see destination.

Source: https://www.urlaubsguru.at/reisemagazin/faeroeer-inseln/

Best experiences:

· See the Múlafossur waterfall

· Visit fishing villages

· Look at puffins in Mykines

· Hike to Sørvágsvatn lake and go kayaking

How long should you stay in the Faroe Islands?

Three days is the absolute minimum you should spend in the Faroe Islands. Five to seven days will give you enough time to visit interesting places and one-day trips to smaller islands.

26. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes are one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. Easy hiking trails, wooden boardwalks suspended over turquoise water, stunning viewpoints, and photogenic waterfalls make visiting these lakes fun for people of all ages.

Best experiences:

· Walk the sidewalks

· Enjoy the views of the park

· Explore the upper and lower lakes

How long should you stay at Plitvice Lakes?

Exploring the Plitvice Lakes takes approximately one full day . Plan to spend one night at the lakes for the best experience, so you can visit the park early and/or late in the day when it's least crowded.

27. Bavaria, Germany

Located in southern Germany, Bavaria is the land of fairytale castles, Oktoberfest and the Alps. With the Alps to the south and idyllic towns on their slopes, Bavaria is a beautiful and romantic destination.

Source: https://en.schwangau.de/sightseeing/neuschwanstein-castle

Best experiences:

· Visit Neuschwanstein

· Visit the salt mines in Berchtesgaden

· Visit the Eagle's Nest

· Enjoy the view from the Zugspitze

· Explore Bavarian towns and villages

· Visit Oktoberfest and explore Munich

How long should you spend time in Bavaria?

Seven to ten days will give you enough time to visit the peaks of Bavaria and a one-day trip to the surrounding cities in Austria.

28. High Tatras And Slovak Paradise, Slovakia

The High Tatras are an outdoor paradise. High mountains, emerald green lakes, beautiful hiking trails and cable cars all come together to create the perfect adventure destination . Go on short, easy walks around alpine lakes, take the cable car to one of the highest mountains in Slovakia and go to Rysy . If you are an avid hiker, this is one of the best places to visit in Europe.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXND9QxLYGI

Top experiences:

· Discover interesting tourist routes

· Take the cable car to Lomnický štít

· Take a walk around Štrbské pleso

·  Visit Starý Smokovec, Tatranská Lomnica and other places

In Slovak Paradise, enjoy the Tomášovský view, climb the Suchá Belá gorge or try adrenaline in the form of the Kyseľ via ferrata. Water sports enthusiasts will be attracted by rafting the Hornád breakwater .

How long should you stay in the Tatras and Slovak Paradise?

Two days would be the bare minimum we would recommend, but three or more days is ideal. So you have enough time for hiking and getting to know the places.

29. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled has all the ingredients for the perfect getaway... a castle perched high on a hillside, a beautiful little island to visit, hiking trails, secluded swimming spots and a fantastic sweet treat.

Source: https://slovenia-outdoor.com/en/destinations/alpine_slovenia_a_hills_and_mountains_land/bled/

Best experiences:

· Visit the island of Bled

· Go on a hike to Mala Osojnica with the best view of the lake

· Go paddleboarding

· Have a slice of Bled Cream Cake

· Take a walk on the lake and visit the Vintgar gorge

How long should you spend at Lake Bled?

Many people visit Lake Bled as a day trip from Ljubljana. But if you have time, plan to spend a few days here or at the nearby Lake Bohinj to fully experience the region.

30. Bastei, Germany

Bastei is one of the most unique areas of Germany. Huge peaks of sandstone rocks tower over the Elbe River and green countryside. These peaks are spanned by a stone bridge , dramatic in appearance as it connects these rock towers and then seems to lead nowhere.

The term Bastei refers to jagged groups of sandstone rocks located in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Hundreds of years ago, Neurathen Castle stood on these rocks. Not much remains of the castle now. It is the Basteibrücke bridge, which is the main attraction here .

Source: https://www.saechsische-schweiz.de/en/explore/famous-bastei-bridge

How to visit Bastei?

Bastei is located in the Saxon Switzerland National Park, 40 km east of Dresden, Germany. You can visit this place on a day trip from Dresden or Berlin.

Europe, the cradle of civilization, offers us an endless number of charming places that are worth visiting. From ancient cities with a rich history to modern metropolises pulsating with life, everyone will find something for themselves here. Whether you're drawn to majestic mountains or vibrant cities, this list will help you plan an unforgettable trip. So, which of these places charmed you the most?

Author: Ingrida Vravcová

© Copyright reserved.