There’s no question that Europe has a wealth of stunning spots to see. It is a paradise for tourists. With charming towns resembling fairytales, breathtaking mountains, and gorgeous beaches, there are endless beautiful places to visit. You may be looking to plan your next vacation to Europe or simply trying to decide where to go on your next trip. There are some stunning locations to see within Europe.
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BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO VISIT IN EUROPE
1. THE DOLOMITES OF ITALY
With soaring mountain peaks that are jagged beautiful towns, picturesque towns, and picturesque lakes, the Dolomites in Italy are among the most stunning locations to see within Europe.
In the summertime, the area is a walking destination that is a dream for people of all ages and levels. Chair lifts take hikers up toward the top of mountains so that they enjoy breathtaking landscapes with a minimum of effort.
The winter months are when skiers can be seen gliding down the mountains, surrounded by snow in a winter paradise.
Best Experiences: Tre Cime di Lavaredo is among the most sought-after hikes within the Dolomites. However, there are other hikes you can select from. Our top pick is Puez-Odle altopiano. If hiking isn’t the thing for you, then we’ve got an overview of the top activities to enjoy in the Dolomites that require little or no trekking.
How Long Should You Spend in the Dolomites? Going to the Dolomites during a one-day trip out of Venice and Verona is possible. However, if you want to experience the Dolomites at their best, take two to three days there. It gives you time to go on cable cars, takes in the scenery, and hike during summertime. Check out the Dolomites itinerary to find tips on planning your trip.
2. SANTORINI, GREECE
This island in Santorini is part of an earlier volcano. The only thing that remains is the caldera’s rim, and atop this edge are the most photographed towns in Europe.
Oia is among the most stunning towns of Santorini. Whitewashed structures dotted by blue-domed churches and windmills create a breathtaking background for photographers. The place appears attractive when the sun sets in the evening, mainly because the buildings shine in shades of oranges, pinks, and reds. It’s undoubtedly a beautiful sight to take in.
Top Experiential Experiences: Go on a sunset cruise and explore towns like Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira and then go to the white, red, and black beaches. Also, you can enjoy an aerial perspective of the island from Profit Ilias. Also, watch the sunset from Oia.
How long should you spend In Santorini? Three days in Santorini will be an ideal time to wander around the town, visit the beaches, and enjoy the sunset from a boat or Oia.
3. THE FJORDS OF NORWAY
Southern Norway is laced with waterfalls, fjords, mountains, and some most challenging hiking trails found across Europe. It is a fantastic destination to explore and a top road strip place.
The fjord can be explored on a boat, via train, car, and on foot. It is possible to blend all the modes of transport to create one unforgettable Norwegian vacation.
Top Experiences: Visit Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a cruise on the fjords via ferry or cruise ship. Hike to Pulpit Rock, Kjeragbolten, and Trolltunga. Norway, in a Nutshell, is a trip that combines a cruise along the fjords with a beautiful drive and is one of the most breathtaking train trips anywhere in the world.
What is the best time to spend in Norway? We recommend spending at least seven days in this area of Norway. However, more time is more beneficial. It gives you time to visit Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger, cruise through the fjords, and hike.
4. PARIS, FRANCE
Paris is among the most beautiful cities in Europe. The boulevards with grand vistas, the buildings, the parks, gardens, the cafes on the streets, and the landmarks make some of the world’s most gorgeous cities on earth.
Top ExperiencesTake admiring the view of the Eiffel Tower from the Arc de Triomphe. Explore the Louvre, Musee d’Orsay, as well as Notre Dame Cathedral. Take a stroll along the Champs-Elysees or through the Seine River. Go to Montmartre for lunch, visit an eatery on the street, and dine on French food.
What is the best time to spend in Paris? For the most enjoyable experience, consider taking a break of three Days in Paris. This will allow you time to experience the most memorable experiences and get acquainted with this fantastic city.
5. ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
Algarve…this is the beautiful coast in the south of Portugal. It is not just a place to enjoy the beach and the sun, you can also explore the cities that line the coastline, hike or play golf and discover the limestone caves.
Best Experiences: Take a dip in the ocean in Praia Sao Rafael. Visit towns like Faro, Lagos, and Tavira. Take a hike along the Seven Hanging Valleys coastal trail and visit Benagil Cave.
How Long Should You Spend in Algarve, Portugal? Planning at least three days in the area is recommended so you have enough time to wander around the towns in small villages, go to the beaches, and discover Benagil Cave. Discover more information here.
6. THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY, IRELAND
The Wild Atlantic Way is 1600 miles of roads across Ireland’s western coastline. Traveling the Wild Atlantic Way is an adventurous journey. If you stop at every spot and explore each nook and crevice of the Wild Atlantic Way, it will take you over a month. In a shorter time, you could only focus on the part of the route or focus solely on the primary attractions.
Top experiences: The Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and Cliffs of Moher all are among the most famous sights along the Wild Atlantic Way. There are many less-known but just stunning viewpoints worth visiting. There are more than 157 Discovery Points to see on the route.
How long should you take to explore the Wild Atlantic Way? The minimum is three days for driving along the Wild Atlantic Way. However, it’s not enough time to take in the scenery. Make sure you spend at least five days road-tripping the coastline for the best experiences.
7. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Prague is among the cities with the best photos in Europe. Prague was the only Eastern European city to survive WWII and not be devastated by bombs. As a result, the city is awash with Gothic structures, old cathedrals, and the most massive castle ever built; Prague is one of the most stunning cities to see in Europe.
Best Experiences: Stroll through Charles Bridge, visit the historic town square, ascend to the top of the towers, view the astronomical clock, go to Prague Castle, and visit the bars and beer halls.
What is the best time to Stay In Prague? Two to three days are enough time to see the main attractions of Prague. However, you can take a day trip to nearby small towns with more time.
8. MONT SAINT-MICHEL, FRANCE
Mont Saint-Michel is an island situated in the northern part of France. Walls of medieval origin enclose it and tops with an old town and abbey. It is surrounded by sand. However, in times of high tide, Mont Saint-Michel looks like it is floating.
Best Experiences: Visit Abbeys, walk through the narrow streets, do some to the shops, and take an image of Mont Saint-Michel at high tide.
How long should you spend In Mont Saint-Michel? Traveling to Mont Saint-Michel on a day excursion from Paris is possible. However, to get the best enjoyment, you should plan your stay for the night in one of the towns nearby.
9. ISTRIA, CROATIA & SLOVENIA
It is the Istrian Peninsula is a wedge-shaped peninsula situated in northwest Croatia as well as western Slovenia. Istria does not have the same popularity as the southern part of Croatia. However, that implies that Istria is smaller and less crowded. If you’d like to steer clear of the crowds who flock to Dubrovnik or Hvar and Split and still take in breathtaking coastal scenery and picturesque towns, think about going to Istria, located on the Istrian Peninsula.
The top experiences: Explore the coastal towns in Rovinj, Pula, Porec, Piran, and Koper and cliff jump on Cape Kamenjak, visit Roman ruin sites, eat freshly caught seafood, and relax on the beaches.
What is the best time to stay in Istria? With three days to explore the most famous sights. The longer time frame lets you relax and take in the unique region of Europe.
10. KEUKENHOF, NETHERLANDS
Between April and May in Keukenhof, it becomes an oasis of blooming Daffodils, tulips, and Hyacinths. It’s stunning and worthwhile if you intend to visit Amsterdam throughout these months.
Top Experiences: Explore the garden, snap pictures, and shop in the shops for gifts.
What is the length of time you should stay at Keukenhof? Visiting Keukenhof is about half an hour, with transportation from and to Amsterdam.
11. RAKOTZBRUCKE, GERMANY
Rakotzbrucke sometimes referred to as Rakotzbrucke, also known as Devil’s Bridge, looks like something out of a fairytale.
Rakotzbrucke was completed in the year 1860. Man constructed the whole bridge except for the jagged rock spires at either end and the sharp rocks within the lake.
What to do in Rakotzbrucke: Rakotzbrucke is situated within Rhododendron Park Kromlau near Gablenz, Germany. The park is accessible via the day trip via Berlin and Dresden.
12. MADEIRA, PORTUGAL
Madeira is a tiny Portuguese archipelago within the Atlantic Ocean, west of Morocco. The beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, beaches, food, and Madeira wine attract more than one million people yearly.
Top Experiences Visit the town of Funchal and swim in the lava pool. Visit the black beaches and hike.
What is the best time to Stay In Madeira? For the optimal experience, consider taking at least seven days to absorb the area’s beauty, walk the trails and take in stunning landscapes.
13. THE ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND
With the stunning scenery of the coast with its charming towns and gorgeous landscapes, The Isle of Skye is among the most breathtaking locations to see throughout Europe.
It is an ideal spot for anyone of any age. The small Peninsula is simple to travel by car, with only a few short, lovely hiking trails that will let you truly experience the beautiful scenery.
Best Experiences: Take a hike on the Quiraing. Visit the Old Man of Storr, try the whisky of Talisker Distillery, visit Dunvegan Castle, see the Fairy Pools and the Fairy Glen, and enjoy the sunset from Neist Point.
How long should you stay on the Isle of Skye? We suggest three days to travel through the Trotternish Loop, visit Dunvegan Castle, and hike several trails.
14. MOSTAR, BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA
With the town’s cobblestone streets with its old stone buildings, minarets, and towers, Mostar seems like it’s been taken from the pages of an epic fairytale. Stari Most, the unique stone bridge across the Neretva River, is the town’s central point.
It’s entertaining to walk around, but the town’s shops and cafes are an absolute delight to go to.
Best Experiences: Photography Stari Most, wander through the town’s old streets and visit the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque as well as shop in the bazaar of old.
What’s the length of time you should spend on Mostar? Ideally, spending two days and one night in the city would be best. However, staying overnight, You can explore Mostar after sunset or early in the morning when the streets are free of traffic.
15. THE CINQUE TERRE, ITALY
Five vibrant and stunning cities fall down the coastline cliffs to the Mediterranean Sea. This is a beautiful place to discover in Italy and one of the most beautiful destinations throughout Europe.
Best Experiences: Visit five towns: Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare, Manarola, and Corniglia. If you are a fan of hiking, then you could hike through the five towns within one day. The longer you trek, the more gelato to consume. Finish at Monterosso to cool off and enjoy a leisurely swim into the Mediterranean.
What is the length of time you should Stay on the Cinque Terre? For the most enjoyable enjoyment, consider spending at minimum one night (two to three days would be optimal) in any of the towns. One day, you can hike or catch the train connecting all five villages. In the evening, you can relax at one of the beaches or go on a day trip to Portofino.
16. KIRKJUFELL, ICELAND
Kirkjufell is one of Iceland’s most famous mountains. Its distinctive arrowhead design, as well as its location on the coast and its remoteness from other mountain ranges, makes this a truly unique photographic place. Combine it with a string of waterfalls, and you’ll have a great photography area.
Where to go to Kirkjufell: Kirkjufell is situated in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. You can visit Kirkjufell during a long journey from Reykjavik. However, to get the most enjoyable experience, planning up to two days in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is recommended. In the case of an avid photographer, you will have enough time to get a picture of Kirkjufell during sunrise or sunset. It also allows you to take in the other incredible attractions on the Peninsula (of that, there’s plenty).
17. THE ALSACE REGION OF FRANCE
The Alsace wine route in eastern France is a fantastic mixture of fairytale towns and charming vineyards.
The Alsace wine road is believed to be where France connects with Germany. The blend of French and German cultural traditions is also evident in the architecture and food.
The colorful, half-timbered houses are dotted along cobblestoned streets. In addition, there are flower arrangements and whimsical decors on structures, and in the charming street cafés, you feel like walking like a character from a fairytale.
Top Experiments: Visit the long list of Alsatian towns (Colmar, Ribeauville, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim are among the most popular towns). Explore Chateau du Haut-Koenigsburg, eat Alsatian dishes, and explore the wineries.
What is the best time to spend in Alsace? Three days along the Alsace wine route provides enough time to see a couple of charming towns and explore the surrounding countryside.
18. GDANSK, POLAND
Gdansk is a fantastic city that is located along the Baltic Sea. Unfortunately, tourists to Poland frequently neglect Gdansk, and it is often overlooked in favor of more well-known cities, such as Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw. But, the vibrant streets, walking paths, and various old-world places make this town an undiscovered gem within Europe.
Top Experiences Explore on the Royal Way, take in the views of the Town Hall tower, visit St. Mary’s Church, take a stroll through the Motlawa River, look for the gargoyles that line Mariacka Street, visit the European Solidarity Center and the Museum of the Second World War as well as a the day-trip for a visit to Malbork Castle.
How long should you spend In Gdansk? Gdansk can be zipped through on the most efficient routes daily. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, plan on spending two to three days in the city. This gives you ample time to wander around the city’s history, see two of the most famous museums in Poland, and take in the delicious food at some fantastic dining establishments.
19. THE SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND
Alpine meadows, towering mountains with soaring cable cars, historical cogwheel trains, picturesque hiking trails, charming villages, and hamlets…the Swiss Alps tops the list of most breathtaking places to see throughout Europe.
The top experiences: Take a trip to Lauterbrunnen Valley, ride the cable car to Jungfraujoch and Schilthorn as well as go to Zermatt and take the train up to Gornergrat to see the breathtaking views of the Matterhorn as well as the mountain townships in Murren, Wengen, and Gimmelwald. You can hike along the trails in summer, while in winter, you can spend time skiing on the slopes.
What is the best time to stay in the Swiss Alps? As long as you can. When you’re on the fastest of your visits to Switzerland, you can take a day trip to the Alps from Lucerne, Zurich, or Lausanne. All in all, spend the most time here you’re able. We could spend ten days in the Swiss Alps during our most recent trip, and longer would have been ideal.
20. COSTA BRAVA, SPAIN
The rocky coast in the northwestern part of Spain is known for its small towns and rough coastal landscape. Costa Brava extends along France’s borders and to Blanes, the city of Blanes. Beautiful weather and stunning beaches make it an ideal holiday spot for many Europeans.
Best Experiences: Go on a wine tour and visit the city of Girona, relax by the sea at Lloret de Mar, dine in Mediterranean food, go to the Dali Theater-Museum and take a tour of Cap de Creus Natural Park as well as Cadaques.
How long should you stay In Costa Brava? It’s possible to take a day trip to Costa Brava from Barcelona, but many more days allow for trying food and visiting the tiny towns.
21. HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA
With its stunning setting, the small town of this region is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular destinations to explore within Europe.
For the past few years, Hallstatt has become one of the top destinations to explore in Austria. So naturally, there are huge crowds in the spring and autumn. But, if you plan it properly, it can be a fantastic place to go.
Best Experiences: Wander the old town, admire the panorama through Skywalk World Heritage Skywalk, tour the salt mines, then go to Hallstatt Ossuary. Hallstatt Ossuary.
What’s the length of time you should Stay In Hallstatt? A few minutes is enough to explore the town. However, if you want the best experience, plan to stay for the night to take advantage of the beautiful streets after tourists from the day go away.
22. THE LOFOTEN ISLANDS, NORWAY
It is no doubt that it is a fact that the Lofoten Islands are one of the most stunning destinations we’ve been to. The rugged coastline, the small ports dotted with fishing boats, winding roads that wind through mountains, thrilling hikes, and beaches that seem like they’re in Caribbean Northern Norway is an absolute delight to visit.
Top Experiences Pick your favorite of the incredible walking trails ( Reinebringen is one of the most well-known, but there are plenty more to pick from). You can also explore the white beaches, spend the night in a rorbu, visit the fishing communities and eat freshly caught seafood and fresh fish and take in The Northern Lights during the winter seasons.
What is the best time to spend in the Lofoten Islands? At the bare most, you should have at least two days of uninterrupted time on the islands of Lofoten. It’s better to stay for four days. However, each day you add to your plan allows you to visit the area and gives you some backup time should there is bad weather (which could be a likely scenario here).
23. BAY OF KOTOR, MONTENEGRO
The Bay of Kotor resembles the Fjords of Norway and New Zealand, with high green cliffs that drop into the turquoise waters in the Bay. Two lanes of road wind across Kotor’s Bay of Kotor, passing through villages and towns.
Best Experiences: Visit Perast, enjoy a boat ride towards Our Lady of the Rocks and explore Kotor and hike up through the Ladder of Kotor and then walk up the walls of the city of Kotor for breathtaking panoramas.
How long should you spend on the Bay of Kotor? Two days should be enough time to see the top attractions. You can add a couple of additional days for a day trip around the coastal towns and to the inside of Montenegro.
24. VENICE, ITALY
Venice can be romantic and historical as well as stunning. Gondolas, canals, architectural style, and the vibrant cities in Murano and Burano make it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe to see.
The top experiences: Explore through the streets of Venice and visit St. Mark’s Basilica, ascend the Campanile di San Marco for the best view from atop Venice, and walk along Rialto Bridge. Rialto Bridge, tour Doge’s Palace, go on a day trip in Murano and Burano and ride on the Gondola.
How Long Should You Spend in Venice? At least two to three days are ideal for experiencing Venice’s highlights. Venice, as well as explore locations off the beaten path.
25. THE FAROE ISLANDS, DENMARK
Northwest in Scotland is a fantastic archipelago with rugged mountains and dramatic waterfalls. However, if you are a photographer or looking for outdoor adventure, The Faroe Islands are a must-see.
Best Experiences: See Mulafossur waterfall and visit fishing communities, view the puffins in Mykines and hike up towards Sorvagsvatn Lake, and go on a kayak or climb a rock.
What is the length of time you should stay In the Faroe Islands? Three days are the minimum that you must visit the Faroe Islands. Five to seven days give plenty of time to explore the main attractions and take an excursion to smaller islands.
26. PLITVICE LAKES, CROATIA
Plitvice Lakes is one the most picturesque spots to see in Croatia. It has easy hiking trails, boardwalks suspended above the aquamarine waters, amazing views, and stunning waterfalls. The lakes are enjoyable to see for all visitors who are of any age.
Top Experiences Take a walk along the boardwalk, take in the views of the park, and then take a look around the lower and upper lakes.
What is the best time to spend In Plitvice Lakes? It takes about a whole day to discover Plitvice Lakes. Make sure to stay one night near the lakes to get an unforgettable experience. You can visit the park early morning or later during the day when it’s less crowded.
27. BAVARIA, GERMANY
Bavaria is in southern Germany and is known as the home of fairytale castles, Oktoberfest in the summer, and the Alps. Bavaria is a beautiful and romantic getaway alongside the Alps in the south and charming towns that adorn the hillsides.
Top Experiential Experiences: Go to Neuschwanstein, visit the Salz mines of Berchtesgaden, and Visit the Eagle’s Nest Take in the panoramic view from Zugspitze. Explore the Bavarian villages and towns, go to Oktoberfest, and take a tour of Munich.
What’s the length of time you should spend In Bavaria? Seven to 10 days will give you enough time to see the most popular places in Bavaria and day trips to nearby cities in Austria.
28. THE HIGH TATRAS, SLOVAKIA
The High Tatras of Slovakia is an ideal outdoor destination. The jagged mountains, the emerald-green lakes as well as rugged trails, as well as the cable cars all blend to make the perfect location for adventure. Take short, simple strolls around lakes in the alpine, ride on a cable car up one of Slovakia’s most imposing mountain ranges, and then hike to Rysy, the highest mountain in Poland. If you’re a keen nature lover, this is one of the top destinations to explore within Europe.
Top Experiments: Hike one or all of the numerous epic hikes, go on the cable car from the Lomnicky Trail, and explore Slovak Paradise Visit the tiny Slovakian towns.
How Long Should You Spend in the Tatras? Two days are the minimum amount we recommend. However, at least three days are optimal. If this interests you, it gives you ample time to hike, explore towns, and visit Slovak Paradise.
29. LAKE BLED, SLOVENIA
Lake Bled has all of the elements needed for a perfect g: any…a castle perched high up on the crest of a hill, a charming tiny island for a go-to, hiking, and a secluded swimming area sell as a delicious sweet dessert.
Top Experiments: Visit Bled Island and walk towards Mala Osojnica for the best picture of the lake. Do stand-up paddle boarding or eat a slice of Bled Cream Cake. Walk along the lake, and go to Vintgar Gorge.
What is the best time to stay on Lake Bled? One day is enough to see the main attractions. Most people go on an outing for the day from Ljubljana. However, if you can spare enough time, consider staying for a few days or around Lake Bohinj to experience this area thoroughly.
30. THE BASTEI, GERMANY
The Bastei is among the most distinctive landscapes in Germany. The massive sandstone peaks are atop the Elbe River and the green landscape. Over these pinnacles lies an impressive stone bridge it connects the rocks with towers and appears to disappear into the distance.
The word Bastei is used to describe the sharp rock formations of sandstone that are located within Saxon Switzerland National Park. Many hundreds of years back, Neurathen Castle stood on these rock formations. Nowadays, little of the castle is left. The bridge BasInstead, the Bruce (Bastion Bridge), is the most popular attraction in this area.
What to do when you visit Bastei: Bastei: The Bastei is situated within the Saxon Switzerland National Park, 40 kilometers from Dresden, Germany. It is possible to see the Bastei in a single day, starting from Dresden and Berlin.