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35+ Best Travel Blogs to Discover Europe in 2024

best europe travel blog

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, it can be hard to know where to start. There’s so much information out there, so many travel guides and videos to see. It can be overwhelming and confusing knowing who to go to.

Today, I’ve curated the best travel bloggers who love travelling through Europe. When planning a trip, I can spend hours scrolling through my favourite Europe travel blogs, finding inspiration and getting excited about the most amazing adventure.

Use this ultimate list of Europe travel blogs as a one-stop destination for all your adventures. You will find a range of blogs to suit every holiday and trip you could imagine. From budget to luxury, adventure to family, food to beauty, there’s something here.

So take a look and get inspired for your next adventure.

The Best Europe Travel Blogs in 2024

salt in our hair europe travel blog

1. Salt in Our Hair

A stunning blog created by Hannah and Nick. Two travel content creators from The Netherlands, Salt in Our Hair has amazing quality content, and stunning photos (check out their Instagram for a snapshot), this is one of my favourite travel blogs for exploring Europe.

Suggested Post: Road Trip Portugal: The Perfect 3-Week Itinerary

2. Chasing the Donkey

Firstly, this is the best name for a travel blog. Secondly, this is my go-to blog for anything travel and Croatia related. Whilst it also has some posts on the surrounding countries, Chasing the Donkey primarily focuses on Croatian travel, from itineraries to driving tips.

Suggested Post: Solo Travel In Greece & The Important Things To Know

3. To Europe and Beyond

Created by solo female traveller Marie-Eve, To Europe and Beyond is a stunning blog filled with lots of useful information. With over 10 years of travel experience, Marie-Eve encourages women to achieve their travel goals in positive, informative posts.

Suggested Post: Your Copenhagen Bucket List: 26 Places You Can’t-Miss

4. Globe Trotter Girls

In 2010, Dani and Jess quit their 9-5 to begin a year-long trip worldwide. 12 years later, Dani still runs Globe Trotter Girls, writing content on how to backpack the world, including tips on finding accommodations, packing, and itineraries.

Suggested Post: The Most Epic Iceland Road Trip

5. Travels of Adam

A travel content creator since 2010, it was a trip to Iceland that inspired Adam to travel the world. Adam’s award-winning blog is filled with detailed and personal posts on what it’s like to travel.

Suggested Post: Czech-Republic Travel Guide

6. Surviving Europe

Surviving Europe comes from Erin and Erin, an American couple who moved to Austria in order to travel more of Europe. Find posts on how to survive Europe as an ex-pat, and create memories in a whole new place.

Suggested Post: Austria Guide

7. The Wanderlust Effect

Originally The Traveling Scholar, The Wanderlust Effect has grown and developed over the many years since 2009. You’ll find a range of posts for different types of holidays from budget to luxury, from family to adventure.

Suggested Post: Itinerary Inspiration: One Month in the Cyclades

8. Budget Traveller

As the title would suggest, Budget Traveller is my go-to for all things budget. There are so many posts on here, from accommodation to local suggestions to food recommendations, you really couldn’t ask for more.

Suggested Post: One City, Many Flavours: 11 of Hamburg’s Best Food Hotspots

9. Europe Up Close

Filled with quality content written by people who live in Europe, you can pretty much everything you need for your European travel here.

Suggested Post: Best Day Trips From Madrid, Spain

10. Vicky Flip Flops

Another greatly named blog, Vicky Flip Flops is one of my favourite blogs to get travel tips fro Europe. Find amazing itineraries, road trips, well-being advice, and more recently, how to travel with a baby! Expect lots of family travel advice in the near future from Vicky!

Suggested Post: 22 Amazing Places to Go in Italy for a Long Weekend

sommertage austrian travel blog

11. Sommertage

Beautifully curated, Sommertage is an Austrian travel blog by the lovely Kathi and Romeo. The most beautiful photos accompany incredibly detailed posts, I adore reading this blog of travel inspiration.

Suggested Post: The Most Beautiful Views Over Budapest

12. Emily Luxton Travels

A UK solo female travel blogger, Emily has visited over 50 countries. Her super detailed food guides are a must-read for anywhere you’re travelling to, and her advice for solo female travellers is paramount.

Suggested Post: Bologna Italy Food Guide: 19 Dishes You Need to Try

13. The Savvy Backpacker

If you’ve spent any time reading travel blogs, you are probably already familiar with The Savvy Backpacker. The ultimate go-to for thrifty backpacking, James has so many guides and tips for travelling on a budget, this blog will save you so much money when on the road.

Suggested Post: How to Visit Barcelona on a Budget

14. Travel Greece Travel Europe

Currently run by Elena, Travel Greece, Travel Europe focuses on Greek and European travel from a hospitality expert. Showing you the lesser-known destinations, and finding new perspectives on the more popular ones, there’s a lot to learn from this blog.

Suggested Post: Insider’s Look at Kefalonia Island

15. Life Beyond Borders

Rebecca Hall originally began her blog whilst living in Greece. She is a phenomenal travel writer, writing for the likes of Rough Guide and the Telegraph , and her blog has since expanded to cover many top European destinations.

Suggested Post: Insider’s Guide to Greek Islands

16. Travel Dudes

As one of the most extensive travel blogs in Europe, there is so much for you to find here. You may end up in a travel blog hole. Click through hundreds of posts on many different countries in Europe, and find exactly what you need for your travels.

Suggested Post: Best Places for Hiking and Camping in Europe

17. Big World Small Pockets

With over 10 years of travel experience, Steph’s blog is great for those on a budget. Find itineraries, travel tips, and budget hacks to help you get the most out of your money when out on the road.

Suggested Post: Top 21 Things to Do in Portugal

18. The Road Trip Guy

Who doesn’t like a road trip? Seeing a country by car is one of the greatest ways to travel. From Scotland to Croatia, you can find the perfect inspiration for your car adventures, see forgotten places, and explore new worlds with the help of this blog.

Suggested Post: A road trip in Croatia Itinerary 

19. Happy to Wander

Another blog loaded with great European content, Happy to Wander has something on most countries in Europe. Find activity recommendations, itineraries, top places to visit, and more.

Suggested Post: A Guide to the Delightful Brussels Christmas Market & Winter Wonders Festival

hand luggage only europe travel blog

20. Hand Luggage Only

One of my favourite Europe travel blogs, Hand Luggage Only is a beautiful blog. Created by Lloyd and Yaya, their blogs are fun, informative, and beautifully presented. Find photography tips, itineraries, and food tips for your travel adventures.

Suggested Post: 14 Best Restaurants to Visit in Iceland

21. One Girl One World

Created by Francesca, a travel and beauty writer, One Girl One World is a place where you will find support and inspiration for embracing your natural beauty and find the confidence to achieve your travel goals.

Suggested Post: Why You Should Celebrate Chinese New Year in Paris

22. Not a Nomad Blog

On Not a Nomad Blog, you’ll find tips on how to work abroad and remotely and build an online business so you can travel full-time. I also love her photography tips, sharing great locations and tips for getting the ultimate travel photos.

Suggested Post: 15 Coolest Day Trips from Berlin

23. The Travel Book

Focusing on eco-friendly travel and sustainable living whilst on the road, The Travel Book is great for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and look after the beautiful world we travel. Find lots of travel tips for Scandinavia in particular.

Suggested Post: Skåne, Sweden

24. Natasha Atlas

Natasha Atlas has a unique combination of film and travel, and travelling with anxiety. Find unique cinema experiences and travel tips for the anxious, from overcoming your fear to personal meditations on how to travel with anxiety.

Suggested Post: An Anxious Travellers Guide to Greece

25. On The Luce

Focusing on affordable and sustainable travel experiences, find rail routes, weekend breaks, and travel advice from Lucy. With over 25 years of travel experience, you know you are getting quality content whenever you dive into one of Lucy’s posts.

Suggested Post: Visiting the Amalfi Coast, Italy: Everything You Need to Know

26. Paper Planes and Caramel Waffles

A fellow waffle lover, and fellow Yorkshire traveller Emma writes about how to travel around your 9-5. Visit places in the UK and beyond, Emma can really help you get the most out of the time you have with beautiful guides and travel advice.

Suggested Post: A Foodie’s Guide to 24 Hours in Leeds

27. Pommie Travels

Originally from Manchester, England, Victoria has travelled to 60 countries, mainly solo. If you’re a solo female traveller, you have to follow Pommie Travels . Find solo travel advice, itineraries, and budget-saving tips.

Suggested Post: My 51 Best Solo Female Travel Tips From Over A Decade Of Travel

28. Pack the Suitcases

Created by Caroline, a travel writer and photographer who travels around her full-time job. Perfect for mid-budget travellers and food lovers, you’ll find plenty of itineraries and outfit inspiration for your travels.

Suggested Post: 20 Things to Do in Korcula, Croatia’s Most Beautiful Island

29. Teacake Travels

Inspiring women to travel the world, Teacake Travels has an incredible positive, go-getter vibe. Alice has had some amazing adventures, including driving solo on her bike across Vietnam, and, she shares her tips with you so you too can achieve your solo travel dreams.

Suggested Post: 12 Reasons To Visit The Beskydy Mountains Czech Republic

30. The Wandering Quinn

Ellie is a travel and content creator who has visited more the 60 countries. After solo backpacking in her 20s, she now lives in England and travels with her family. She has an abundance of travel tips, from budget saving to packing, you’re sure to find many useful posts to help your travels.

Suggested Post: Things to do in Copenhagen! A Weekend in Copenhagen

31. Rear View Mirror

Europe road trip travel blogs are some of my favourites to browse, and here is another must-visit for those who love a road trip. Find ultimate road trips for all around Europe, from the Plitvice Lakes to northern Germany, you’ll find so much inspiration for future trips here.

Suggested Post: Estonia Road Trip

32. An American in Rome

Rome is a beautiful place and an incredibly popular destination. What better than to get off the tourist path and get tips from a local? Natalie has lived in Rome since 2010 and knows a thing or two about the city. Find all you need for your trip to Rome and Italy here.

Suggested Post: Thrift Stores in Italy

33. Foodie Flashpacker

Food is one of my favourite things to experience when travelling, and I think the Foodie Flashpacker would agree. Travelling with a bit of luxury, find all your food needs on this blog to travel deliciously across Europe.

Suggested Post: 13 Best Reykjavik Restaurants

young adventuress europe travel blogs

34. Young Adventuress

Free-spirited, adventure-seeking, and solo traveller Liz Carlson has created a phenomenal blog. Having lived across the globe and travelled since 2010, find everything from tips to moving abroad, travelling as a solo female traveller, to photography. It’s everything you could need.

Suggested Post: 25 Photos that will Make You Fall in Love with Switzerland

35. Off to Get Lost (Me!)

A check little input here, but how could I not? The blogs above are incredible, and I hope one day to be on someone else’s best Europe Travel Blogs list. Posting budget travel tips for solo travellers and destination guides, make sure to follow them so I can help you plan your perfect trips.

Suggested Post: How to Travel Dubrovnik on a Budget: The Ultimate 2022 Guide

So there we have 35 of the best travel blogs to help you discover Europe…

Planning a trip around Europe is incredibly exciting. There is so much to see, so much history to experience, and, of course, a lot of food to be eaten. With these travel blogs, you can discover Europe from people who have seen it all first-hand. Find insider tips and perfect itineraries to make your trip as brilliant as possible.

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Kizzi is a travel blogger and photographer who loves sharing her passion for exploring the world. is the creator of Off to Get Lost. Her love for travel began in 2017 when she went on her first solo adventure to Sri Lanka. Recently, Kizzi has been exploring the hidden depths of Europe and sharing her findings on Off To Get Lost. Through Off to Get Lost, Kizzi aims to empower fellow adventurers, teaching how to maximize their time, budget, and grow confidence while uncovering Europe's finest treasures.

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Hi, I'm Kizzi and welcome to Off to Get Lost where the aim is to do exactly that! So let's get lost across the world, dicover new expereinces, and have the adventure of a lifetime. Here on Off to Get Lost, you'll find budget saving tips, perfectly planned itineraries and helpful advice on how to do it all solo.

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To Europe And Beyond

to europe and beyond

Hello, i’m marie-eve.

This isn’t just any run-of-the-mill travel blog; it’s a travel journal encompassing over a decade of travel across Europe and the rest of the world from the eyes of an architecture-obsessed, latte-lover solo female traveler.

With this space I aim to encourage millennial women to discover the world on their own using my recommendations, practical tips, and ready-to-use itineraries in the far ends of Scotland, the bustling metropolises of Japan, the beaches of Mexico, and the charming streets of my hometown.

The world’s our oyster, ladies. Let’s get out there.

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Travelling alone as a woman can be incredibly empowering and also a huge confidence-booster. My goal is to trigger this urge by provoking discussions and digging deeper on why solo travel is still very much considered to be an odd choice. Breaking news: it’s not.

best europe travel blog

Whether you dream of Costa Rica’s wild jungles, Kyoto’s historic streets, New Zealand’s fjords, Paris’ nightclubs or New York’s diviest bars, there is no compromise to be made here. No schedule, no detours, no needs to cater to… but yours. Because, hey, you’re the one in charge.

best europe travel blog

Going it alone comes with unlimited freedom, but also a few additional responsibilities. Research ahead of time, pick the right destinations, do your homework, prepare accordingly, and, with my useful solo travel tips, finally have the trip you’ve always dreamed of.

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get the books

My curated travel guides.

Solo female travel Paris travel guide by To Europe and Beyond

Between the bakeries, the romantic Haussmann architecture, the natural wine bars, the lengthy strolls along the Seine and the rooftop views of the city, Paris truly is one of the best cities in Europe and certainly one of its most iconic. This travel guide narrows down the best things to do in Paris for both first and eleventh-timers, with a mix of obvious and little known.

Solo female travel guide to Montreal travel guide by To Europe and Beyond

Born and raised in Montreal, I know the city’s ebbs and flows like the back of my hand. The trendiest exhibition? The most beautiful and colourful streets? The best restaurants in touristy areas like Old Montreal? The most fun, outdoorsy day trips? I’m your girl. This guide contains first-hand, insightful Montreal travel tips that will make your trip to my hometown truly unforgettable.

London travel guide by To Europe and Beyond

The British capital’s heritage spans milleniums, and yet it still manages to surprise me every time I visit. London is a city best discovered leisurely, for its sheer size and rhythm can be astounding! With this travel guide, learn how to navigate the tube, identify which neighbourhoods are worth a visit, plan your evening in atmospheric pubs, and more!

best europe travel blog

Need more help from this travel blog?

If you need additional and specific travel tips for a destination, or if you simply are looking for inspiration and a little book-that-damn-trip pep talk, get in touch!

I’ll be happy to share my packing secrets or my newly favourite wine bar in Montreal, the best tips for skipping the queues at the Louvre or how to plan a budget-friendly road trip in Switzerland.

Don’t be a stranger!

best europe travel blog

Wanderlust Storytellers – An Inspirational Family Travel Blog

Complete Europe Travel Blog: To Help You Plan Your First Trip

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Read more about the countries we cover on our blog by clicking on a link below or alternatively keep reading about how to plan a trip to Europe below the links.

Netherlands

Switzerland

Europe is such an incredible  destination  to visit and explore!

For those of us from countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, there is something special about learning about history and exploring picture-perfect old towns, little alleys, and gorgeous castles.

We love Europe and even though this continent is so far away from our home country of Australia, we try to get visit there as often as we can. 

Europe travel blog

We have enjoyed many road trips, some of our favorites in fact, and we love visiting Europe with our kids to expose them to the different cultures and different scenery as well.

Quick side story:  Andrzej was born in Poland and lived there until he was 18. So we have a wee bit of European blood in our family.

So let us help you plan a magical first trip to Europe.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Europe?

Best Family Vacations In Europe

Europe is lovely right throughout the year. The continent has varied climates, like tundras in the northern countries of Sweden, Finland, and Norway.

Mediterranean countries like Portugal, Italy, and France are also great any time of the year. 

Wherever you go, you’ll want to keep the seasons in mind. Better weather can mean more tourists.

Expect the summer seasons from June to September to be warmer and also more crowded. 

We typically try to travel to Europe during the shoulder months,  my favorite month to visit Europe is in September  however read this post if you are looking for the  best city to visit in Europe in December or if you are looking for the best places to visit in Europe for a weekend !

If you are after a winter holiday, look no further than Germany or Switzerland. Here is a helpful post on  beautiful places in Switzerland  to see on your next trip.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Travel To Europe?

Lake Como from Bellagio

Traveling to Europe can become quite pricey, but there are a few ways to curb your spending.

It’s best to travel to Europe during the fall and winter months between September and March. Although, you can expect prices to increase for December. 

Here is a great post on  how to travel around Europe for cheap .

Even when flying during the off-season, you’ll want to fly during the week as opposed to weekends.

Book a flight on a commercial airline as well and choose the busiest routes as they’ll be more affordable. From past research,  the cheapest time to fly to Europe is in February.

Subscribe to flight alerts  as this can tell you when the cheapest tickets are available so that you can book your flights ahead of time.

How Many Days In Europe Is Sufficient?

Marina Corricella on Procida Island, Italy, view from the top, boats and colourful buildings

This is definitely a complicated question, especially when traveling with kids.

You would want to ensure that you’ve got enough time to see cool places and give yourselves time to rest.

But, you also don’t want to rush your stay and wish that you’d spent more time thereafter. 

If you’re looking to head to bigger cities  like Paris, Rome, Lisbon, Athens, and London, you’ll definitely want to  plan for around three to five days .

This will give you enough time to reset after the journey and explore the major attractions in the city. 

If you’re hoping to cover some of the  smaller cities or towns , you’ll want to  keep your trip to around one to two days  long.

The smaller cities/towns are lovely for sightseeing and tend to have some of the best-unobstructed views, but they won’t always have as many attractions. 

If you’re a traveling family like us, you can use the smaller cities as a pit stop on your way to bigger cities.

Visiting smaller cities in between can help you save on pricey accommodation.

As we travel from Australia, the long trip means that  we typically try to go to Europe for at least 2-3 weeks at a time.

Which European Countries Are The Friendliest?

Dona Ana beach, Algarve coast in Portugal

When you spend a lot of time abroad, it’s best to choose some of the friendliest European countries so that you can feel safe and have a friendly face to ask for help or directions.

Knowing that locals are approachable makes the trip all the more exciting. 

According to  Euronews ,  Portugal is the friendliest European country  and is 20th globally. 

Other friendly countries  in Europe include  Greece  at 12th,  Ireland  at 16th, and  Spain  ranking 19th out of 59 countries. 

Certain countries are friendlier than others. In fact, 14 European nations were in the bottom 20 for friendliness—globally!

Austria was voted the least friendly, with Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic following closely.

So if the attitude of others towards you is something that can easily affect you, then I suggest you pick one of the friendlier countries for your first trip.

Which European Country Should I Visit First?

Choosing where to go will depend on your itinerary, how many days you’ve got to spend in any given country, and where you’re departing from.

But here’s a quick list of our favorite places. Make sure to even add a few of the best European cities to visit to your European travels!

The most romantinc things to do in Venice - Take a gondola ride

The first country you choose to see has to be Italy.

We loved the beautiful scenery and enjoyed doing bucket list items like seeing the Colosseum in Rome!

Venice is also a jaw-dropping location for a romantic couple’s vacation (or even a honeymoon).

In actual fact, we love Italy so much that we have been back three times and the last time, we spent over 3 months in Italy traveling from North to South.

We love the Italian people, they are so friendly and don’t mind noisy kids. Of course, the food was an absolute delight as well. 

You can’t go wrong by picking Italy for your first trip to Europe.

Use our  Italy travel guide  to start planning your trip and make sure to see what airlines fly to Italy for the best flights.

Best Alsace Villages in France

In my opinion, the most beautiful country in Europe might just be France.

We did a massive round trip around France and we just fell in love with the little towns and the scenery.

Of course, Paris is a beautiful location, regardless of who you’re with, but there are also stunning views from the French Riviera and Alps.

There are also a ton of things to do in France, so if you are traveling with your kids, you can rest assured knowing that your kids won’t get too bored just walking around and checking out the sights. 

We took our girls to see the many castles in France and had the chance to spend some quality time in places like Colmar and Loire Valley.

You can use our  France travel guide  to start researching and planning your trip.

3. Greece 

Picturesque view of the Venetian castle and city of Kythera isla

The Mediterranean is our third favorite, with Greece as our favorite country to visit. It’s a good place for family beach days.

There is quite a bit to see in Greece, like the Acropolis, Lake Plastira, and Santorini. 

Throughout the 227 islands, there is a range of fascinating foods to try out.

It is also quite a popular destination as of late, so there are a ton of combo packages and affordable deals to keep you on track with your budget. 

Due to its popularity, it is best to book flights as soon as possible. Here are our best airlines to fly to Greece to help you decide.

Use our  Greece travel guide  to start planning your trip. Another great resource is our post on the  best places to visit in Greece for first-timers .

Should I Visit Europe With Kids?

Col des Aravis, France with Kids

Europe has always been a really popular destination for families. Europe is safe and offers plenty of baby and kid-friendly facilities. 

The continent is easy to explore with kids in tow. 

The best European countries for families include Italy, France, Spain, Portugal & the UK. 

You can find a list of the best places to travel in Europe with kids here, or if your kids are older you might prefer our list of the best places to visit in Europe with teens

How to Plan A Trip To Europe

There are a few things you need to sort out first before planning your itinerary.

You’ll want to gather all your documents and make sure that your budget will allow you to travel to the country of your choice. 

Once you know where you’re going, you can book your accommodation, airfare, and insurance, and plan your itinerary.

You’ll want to keep an eye out for any tours and affordable deals and keep tabs on any of the logistics sides of things.

1. Decide where to go and how long to go for

How long can you go away for? Once we know this, you can figure out how many destinations you can manage to visit on your Europe trip.

As a broad guideline, we recommend 3-4 nights for bigger cities and 2-3 nights for smaller towns. 

Now it is time to figure out where you want to go. Are you going to focus on one country or visit multiple countries?

With the amazing network of trains and cheap flights, traveling to multiple countries in Europe is a breeze. The best part? You can visit some of the most popular cities in just one trip!

For example, why not try out Paris or Rome for a unique experience? Both cities are full of culture and history, so it’s up to you to decide which one you like more.

Make a list of all the destinations you will be visiting.

If you plan on traveling long-term to different countries in Europe be sure to check out this post on the 10 most beautiful countries in Europe for long-term travel !

2. Decide where you will fly in and out of

Now that you know where you will be going, figure out where you will be flying in and out.

You could choose to fly in and out of one destination (great if you are traveling on a budget), or fly into one destination and out of another (typically more expensive than getting return tickets in and out of the same city).

And then it is time to secure those flight tickets. Here is a helpful post full of wonderful  airplane travel accessories  – so helpful for long-haul flights!

  • Flights to Europe:  We personally book our flights on Cheapo Air, and we find that they are often the cheapest (even in comparison to Skyscanner).   Click to check on prices for your flights .

3. Book your travel insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Safety Wing.

We have claimed on our travel insurance more than once, claims that would have cost us A LOT out of our own pockets. Don’t skimp out on insurance!! 

  • Travel Insurance:  Safety Wing offers incredible plans and is one of the few insurance companies that allow you to grab insurance when you are already traveling!  Click to check on their plans and prices .

4. Book your accommodation

Now that you know which date you will be landing in Europe, you can start booking your accommodation for the trip.

  • Accommodation in Europe:  We always start our accommodation research with Booking.com.
  • We find that Booking.com offers a fabulous range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to home rentals (and we often find the prices for these rentals are cheaper when compared to sites like Airbnb).  Click here to start your research for accommodation . 

5. How will you get around?

Lastly, think about how to want to get from point A to point B. You might prefer to simply hop on a high-speed train (if that option is available for your destinations).

Or you might prefer to travel more lightly, stopping along the way at cute towns with a car rental.

  • Car Rental in Europe:  The best car rental company in Europe is Auto Europe.   Auto Europe is a car rental booking service that quickly compares car rental prices across all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.  Click to see prices for car rentals .
  • Train Tickets:  We love to purchase our train tickets through Omio.  Click here to purchase your train tickets .

6. Plan your itinerary

Next, it is time to start planning what you will be doing at each destination. You can easily do that by using our country travel guides down below. This is the fun part that I love most. 

7. Stay Connected

When you are traveling in Europe and especially when crossing multiple borders, you may need to get a local sim card to stay connected, and so on.

Well, there is an easier way these days, an more hustle-free.

Check out our recommended Best eSIM for Europe travel options here, and see which one is best for you and your needs.

European Countries Travel Guides

Click on the links below to read a Europe travel guide on each of these European countries:

Austria Travel Blog

Europe Travel Blog Posts

Click on the links below to read a Europe travel post about some of the best places to visit in Europe, travel tips for Europe as well as European Itineraries. 

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170 Best Europe Travel Blogs & Websites To Follow In 2022

Table of Contents

EUROPE TRAVEL BLOGS

Best Europe Travel Blogs

  • American Black Chick in Europe – Dealing with these crazy Europeans one day at a time.
  • Cheap Weekend Breaks – Exploring Europe best places one weekend at the time.
  • Dream Euro Trip – A European travel blog that focuses on music festivals, fashion, food trips and unique travel adventures written by Filipino blogger, living in Germany.
  • Drive on the Left – Two American Expats and one fearless beagle living in London and travelling through Europe.
  • Eileen Barish’s Monastery Lodging Blog – Niche-travel blog about monastery logging in Italy, France, Britain and Spain created by award winning author Eileen Barish.
  • EuroCheapo – Tracking down and recommending the best budget hotels, places and food in Europe’s most popular cities.
  • Europe a la Carte – Tips on where to visit in Europe and the best European destinations.
  • European Travelista – Sharing the love of European travel.
  • Europe 4 Travellers – Great tips, advice, suggestions and guides for the informed cultural traveller.
  • Europe Travel Destination Guide – City and country guides, destinations for all budgets (including luxury & backpacker), inspiring travel photos and lists on top attractions.
  • Europe Traveler – Information on Europe as a travel destination.
  • Europe Up Close – Comprehensive Europe’s destination information, travel tips and advice from experienced Europe travel writers.
  • EuroTravelogue – Journeys through enchanting European destinations.
  • EuroTribe – A blog focusing on budget travel to European destinations.
  • Frog & Cheese – Europe travel blog.
  • Karie and Scott – European adventure of Karie and Scott.
  • Mangomanjaro – Hitchhiking through Europe and Middle East in the eyes of Swedish couple.
  • Oh, The Places We Will Go – A Texas accountant who married a globe-trotting Englishman.
  • Planes, Trains & Autobahns – An American girl living in Germany. Tabitha tries to visit at least one new place every month.
  • Rear View Mirror – Andrea is mixing slow travel and fun with fast paced road trips driving her Fiat 500. Great resource on Europe trips.
  • Reflections Enroute – Weekend travel destination in Europe.
  • Rick Steves – Something to read, watch and listen about the must see places in Europe from Rick Steves, America’s authority on European travel.
  • See Beautiful Places – A travel blog with lots of photos and information about interesting places in Europe.
  • Story of My Life – A blog about budget trips to Spain, Italy and Austria.
  • Surviving Europe – A newly married Erin and Erin have embarked a journey from their comfortable life and 9-5 jobs in Washington DC to the open road and an unknown future in Europe.
  • The Migrant Expats – Two travelers getting lost for the sake of adventure.
  • The Savvy Backpacker – James and Susan’s guide for backpacking and budget travel in Europe.
  • The Unexpected Traveller – Best travel destination in Europe.
  • The Wanderblogger – An American expat, mum and blogger living in London.
  • Travel Advice Europe – Get the most out of your time in Europe whether you are backpacking or on a weekend break.
  • Travellector – Maria is an Europe expert and can plan your itinerary based on your personality type.
  • Visiting EU – European travel tips for sightseeing, transportation, hotels, and more.
  • Worldwide Scott – Scott’s travels tales from Europe and beyond.
  • Austrian Adaptation – Expat and travel blogger Carly Hulls shares her stories and adventures of adapting to Austrian life in Vienna.
  • CheeseWeb – slow travel experts in Belgium, Europe and beyond.
  • Best of Brussels – city guide for visitors, expats and even locals.

CZECH REPUBLIC

  • Christopher’s Expat Adventure – An American expat adventure in Brno, Czech Republic.
  • Girl in Czechland – A British woman who fell for a Czech chap and then followed him to his Bohemian homeland.
  • Tracy’s Travels – Tracy travels throughout the Czech Republic, with focus on caves, monasteries and castles.
  • Wandelion Blog – A blog for those who want to start planning their travel to Georgia and Armenia long before arriving at the destination.
  • Berlin City Tours – A lot of info about what to see and do in Berlin.
  • Fotostrasse – A travel and lifestyle blog with stunning photos written by Brazilian couple living in Berlin. Also includes other European destination.
  • Nicole is the New Black – Black American Woman living in Berlin with her lovely daughter.
  • Travel Glam – Living and working in Berlin. Originally from NZ.
  • Access Riviera – Travel advice on the French Riviera for families and/or persons with reduced mobility.
  • All Things Riviera – Marlys and Michael on their journey to get to know the French and Italian Riviera.
  • A Student Abroad – An American student in France, living and traveling around Europe.
  • Destination Europe – Andrea moved to France in 2005 and set up ‘Destination Europe’ to share her Aussie expat adventures.
  • Let’s Move To France – Serial expat from North America and French sabbatical expert.
  • Lost in Cheeseland – Food, travel, lifestyle and expat stories from a Philly native who fell in love with a Frenchman and moved to Paris.
  • Lou Messugo – Life in the south of France from a British/Australian perspective.
  • Messy Nessy Chic – Unique guide to Paris, presenting secret, off beat and little known places in the city.
  • Prêt à Voyager – Tips for your next trip to Paris from local.
  • The French Way Blog – John Reese specialises in everything to do with tourism in France.
  • This French Life – News, advice and information for those from the UK, the US and other English speakers who want to live life the French way.
  • At Home in Tuscany – Useful tips for planning your vacation in Tuscany.
  • BuzzInRome – Rome travel guide written in English by locals for the international community.
  • Dream Discover Italia – Italophile traveller, blogger and photographer writing about all things Italian.
  • Dream of Italy – Insider Italy travel tips and recommendations.
  • Flip Florence – A video blog of Florence and the surrounding areas of Tuscany and Chianti.
  • Heart Rome – A food, travel & lifestyle blog about an Australian girl who moved to Rome.
  • Italian Notebook – The brief, free, daily taste of Italy read by thousands of Italy lovers worldwide.
  • Italy and Son – Italy is Jeanie’s passion, and will soon be her home.
  • Katharina’s Italy – Katharina is passionate about Italy and would trade heaven for it.
  • Melange – A blog for France and Italy lovers.
  • Ms. Adventures in Italy – Food recipes, travel and photography from Italy.
  • Napoli Unplugged – All to know before visiting Napoli.
  • Palermo For 91 Days – A guide to Palermo, how to see almost everything that this city has to offer.
  • Rick’s Rome – Rick’s mission is to decode Italian culture for the English-speaking world.
  • Secret Italy – Italy lifestyle and travel blog.
  • The Maremma Tuscany – An insider’s guide to a Tuscany off the beaten tourist track.
  • The Sardinia Travel Guide – What to see and do in Sardinia.
  • French Foodie in Dublin – A blog about my food experiences in Dublin and beyond from the French point of view.
  • Got Ireland – Ireland travel and tourism blog, featuring some of the best places to visit in Ireland.
  • Irish Fireside – Get the scoop on Irish travel and culture through this podcast and blog about Ireland.

THE NETHERLANDS

  • Amsterdam City Tours – Sights, restaurants, bars, nightlife, events, festivals and other attractions in Amsterdam.
  • Famsterdam Life – A blog about travel, bicycle and the Netherlands.
  • Olympic Wanderings – A twenty-something Australian living in the Netherlands.
  • The European Mama – A blog by a Polish mother living in the Netherlands about her expat life, raising global citizens and parenting.
  • UnClogged in Amsterdam – From local markets to museums to day trips, Melissa explores the Dutch capital from an American expat’s perspective.
  • Never a Dull Day in Poland – A crazy American expat, follow her adventures and challenges while living in Poland.
  • Polish Housewife – Culinary and cultural adventures in Poland and in the USA.
  • Polska Dotty – A funny, touching portrayal of an Englishman’s submersion into Polish life.
  • Tiffany Horan – A British artist and theorist, currently teaching English as a foreign language in Poland.
  • Twisted Red Ladybug – An expat photograph from Romania living in beautiful city of Krakow.
  • Wroclaw Uncut – An ultimate alternative guide to what’s going on in the city of Wroclaw.
  • An Adventure Abroad – An expat life in Portugal from the view of an Americana.
  • Angloinfo Portugal – Everything you need to know about moving to Portugal.
  • Gail at Large – A Canadian photographer based in Portugal.
  • Julie Dawn Fox In Portugal – A British expat in Portugal with a passion for travel, writing and photography.
  • Local Porto – Porto city guide and local travel tips.
  • One Tiny Leap – Lisbon & Brighton based family travel and lifestyle blog.
  • Piglet in Portugal – Tales of life and travel in Portugal, UK and France with a humorous twist.
  • Pottering Around Portugal – The best of Portugal for an expat audience.
  • Like The Vodka – Stephanie Smirnov and her life with the Russian husband.
  • Moscowed – Inexplicable love of Russia brought Jessie to Moscow in 2013. She haven’t managed to get deported yet, so she’s still there.
  • Must See Moscow – Moscow seen from inside, all those curious things of the Russian culture.
  • My Destination Moscow – Videos, virtual tours and a guide to Moscow by the local expert.
  • On Life in St.Petersburg – The journal of an American expat in Russia, living in St. Petersburg.
  • Real Moscow – Moscow survival guide.
  • Russia Lite – Moscow-based American writer, food blogger, and Russian historian about the life in the world’s largest country.
  • Transform Siberia – Lifting the veil on a once forbidden place to reveal the beauty and warmth of her people.
  • 30 Days To Santiago – A website dedicated to the Camino de Santiago, one of the most important pilgrimage site in Europe.
  • Barcelona Blonde – Read about Jessica’s adventure in Spain and discover why this California girl is so obsessed with the Catalan capital.
  • Catalonia-Valencia – Travel tips about the communities of Catalonia and Valencia, by an Irish writer living in Spain for 11 years.
  • East of Malaga – Tales from east of Malaga, a beautiful area known as La Axarquia on Costa del Sol.
  • Every Museum in Madrid – This blog describes visits to over 50 museums and exhibit spaces in Madrid.
  • IslandMomma – British expat exploring the stories of the Canary Islands.
  • La Tortuga Viajera – A blog and travel resource based on experiences of an American expat living in Spain.
  • Live News From Spain As It Happens – Keep up to date with all the latest news from Spain.
  • My Spanish Adventure – Will left London to learn Spanish and figure out what to see in Spain while living on the cheap.
  • Notes from Spain – The best stories, podcasts, videos and photos from Spain since 2005.
  • Oviedo For 91 Days – Photos and articles from the city of Oviedo.
  • Piccavey – Molly is a specialist in Spanish culture. Find out what living in Spain is really like.
  • The Spain Scoop – Fun, expert, travel advice on Spain.
  • This Spanish Life – Marianne’s blog about her experiences of living, travelling and working in Spain.
  • Valencia For 91 Days – A guide to Valencia, how to see almost everything that this city has to offer.
  • Istanbul Eats – A serious eater’s guide to Istanbul.
  • Istanbul For 91 Days – A guide to Istanbul, how to see almost everything that this famous city has to offer.
  • Istanbul Trails – First hand information about life in Istanbul and Turkey for future tourists, expats or immigrants.
  • Turkish Travel Blog – An expat life of a British girl in Turkey. She aims to visit every town, city & village in this large & beautiful country.
  • The Turkish Life – The travels, linguistic misadventures, and observations of an American expat living in Turkey.

UNITED KINGDOM

  • Adventures of a London Kiwi – Kiwi long term expat living a London dream.
  • Backpacking in Northern Ireland – An easy to understand guide to the gorgeous 6 counties of Northern Ireland.
  • Britain 4 Travellers – Information related to travelling all over the United Kingdom.
  • Creative Tourist – An art and travel site, uncovering the best art and cultural events in UK.
  • Eguilbs – A Canadian living in London and enjoying European travels.
  • Emm in London – The adventures of an eternal tourist living and working in London.
  • Girl in London – Adventures abroad of an American expat living in London.
  • Jess-On-Thames – A regularly updated London wish list of upcoming events and places Jess wants to try.
  • London Unattached – Fiona’s personal blog for the best in London living.
  • Runawaykiwi – Just a runaway Kiwi blogging about coffee, culture and how to survive this crazy city.
  • Smitten by Britain – The world’s first blog for Britophiles about all things British.
  • Stuck in London – A guide to living, working and playing in London.
  • The Blighty Traveller – An independent travel guide to Great Britain & Northern Ireland.
  • The London Insider – The magazine about everything London.
  • Traveling Savage – A travel blog that explores Scotland’s culture, nature, history, and food and drink.
  • UK Travel Blog – A blog focusing on the UK travel industry.
  • Travels With a Kilt – A Glasgow based blog and travel advisory service for visitors to Scotland.
  • VisitBritain Blog – Great source of information about Great Britain.

SCANDINAVIA

  • Daily Scandinavian – A new travel website promoting Scandinavian destinations.
  • Finland Adventures – The life of a Luisiana expat in Finland.
  • Hogan’s Blog – Alan Hogan is a visual artist in Finland. He blogs about art, travel and cultural differences in and outside his new home of Finland.
  • Iceland For 91 Days – A guide to Iceland , how to see almost everything that this country has to offer.
  • Iceland Eyes – An award winning, internationally renowned blog about life in Iceland.
  • Life in Norway – Exploring the Norwegian lifestyle from an expat perspective. Written by foreigners living and working in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger and Trondheim.
  • Sage & Simple – Denmark’s top expat living blog.
  • Snow in Tromso – A grad student from Germany in the Arctic of Norway – travels in Scandinavia and beyond.
  • Something Swedish – A blog all about moving to Sweden from NYC.
  • Sweden.se – An insider look at expat life in Sweden, one day at a time.
  • The Fourth Continent – Tale of a young Australian called Tanny, blogging from Greenland, Denmark.

THE BALKANS

  • Albania or Bust – Ramblings about parenting, Navy and expat life in Albania and Belgium.
  • An Englishman in the Balkans – Life in South East Europe. David and Tamara live in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • A Yankee-in-Belgrade – An American woman who’s lived and worked in Serbia for over 35 years.
  • Living In Belgrade – The ultimate information portal for foreign residents and travelers to the city of Belgrade, Serbia.
  • Macedonia For 91 Days – A guide to Macedonia, how to see almost everything that this country has to offer.
  • Mount Rewild – A Finnish-Bosnian family living a slow, simple, and rewilding life on a mountain.
  • Romania and Moldova Travel Guide – The most complete online guide to travel in Romania and Moldova.
  • Adventure Flair – Adriana blogs about her travels, Bulgaria and the Balkans. She works as a private tour guide.
  • Great Places in Bulgaria – Great places to visit in Bulgaria.
  • Uncle Bulgaria’s Blog – A blog by a British expat living and working in Balchik,Bulgaria.
  • Chasing the Donkey – An Australian-Croatian couple blog about the best of Croatia travel, food, culture, and life in rural Croatia.
  • Croatia Tips – Tips for a great vacation in Croatia, best locations, beaches and overall great advice.
  • Find Croatia – A comprehensive on-line travel guide to Croatia with all the details and information.
  • Frank about Croatia – Croatia travel guide & blog.
  • Greeker than the Greeks – The life and times of an expat from Britain, living in Greece for over thirty years.
  • Life Beyond Borders – A travel writer, blogger and EFL teacher currently living in Athens.
  • Living in Greece – A practical guide to moving, living, working and traveling in Greece, from an American in Athens.
  • Secret Greece – Find and discover the hidden and alternative Greece.
  • Travel Passionate – Tips and ideas of what to see in Chrissy’s hometown, Athens and her beautiful country Greece.

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  • Find Hotels via Booking.com
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100 Best Europe Travel Blogs and Websites

best europe travel blog

  • The Savvy Backpacker | Guide To Budget Travel and Backpacking Through Europe
  • European Travel Magazine
  • Euro Travel Coach
  • Jayway Travel
  • Rewilding Europe
  • Travel Greece Travel Europe
  • Wild Junket Adventure » Europe
  • Travel Dudes » Europe
  • Hospitality Net
  • The Travel Magazine » Europe
  • A Luxury Travel Blog » Europe
  • Chasing the Donkey
  • European Travel Commission
  • Heather on Her Travels
  • Europe Up Close
  • Happy to Wander
  • Dan Flying Solo
  • Heart My Backpack
  • Marbella Family Blog
  • Kami and the Rest of the World
  • Travelling Weasels
  • Travelling Buzz | Travel Blog about Bulgaria and Europe
  • Life Beyond Borders - A Life in Greece & Travel Blog.
  • Travel And Tour World » Europe
  • Vienna Unwrapped
  • Nomad is Beautiful » Europe
  • The Travel Hack Blog
  • Wonderful Wanderings
  • Wanderlust Chloe » Europe
  • BudgetTraveller » Europe
  • Europe Diaries
  • Inside Out In Istanbul
  • Emily Luxton Travels » Europe
  • Opodo Travel Blog » Europe
  • On the Luce travel Blog
  • Perceptive Travel Blog » Europe Travel
  • Tour Europe
  • To Europe And Beyond
  • An Adventurous World » Europe
  • Italia Slow Tour
  • Retired And Travelling » Europe Travel
  • Bookings For You Blog
  • Keep Calm And Travel » Europe
  • My Magic Earth
  • Probe around the Globe » Europe
  • Vacations & Travel » Europe
  • Travelling Jezebel
  • The Road Trip Guy
  • A Wanderlust for Life Blog
  • Wanderlust Crew » Europe
  • Geeky Explorer » Europe
  • Historic Hotels of Europe
  • Cool Kidz Cool Trips
  • Indie Voyager
  • Anne Travel Foodie » Europe
  • The Tour Guy Blog
  • Travel-Boo Blog
  • Helen on her Holidays » Europe
  • Gate 1 Travel Blog Europe
  • Travels of Adam » Europe
  • Rear View Mirror
  • Meet Bosnia Travel Blog
  • Wild East Blog
  • OUR CROSSINGS
  • Travel Europe
  • Ruins & Rosemary
  • The Clever Voyager
  • Rick Steves' Travel Blog
  • eTramping Travel Blog » Europe
  • Adventurous Kate » Europe
  • Eurail Blog
  • As We Travel » Europe
  • Chris Travel Blog » Europe
  • TravelAge West » Europe

Europe Travel Bloggers

  • Europe Travel Newsletter

Europe Travel Blogs

Here are 100 Best Europe Travel Blogs you should follow in 2024

1. The Savvy Backpacker | Guide To Budget Travel and Backpacking Through Europe

The Savvy Backpacker | Guide To Budget Travel and Backpacking Through Europe

2. European Travel Magazine

European Travel Magazine

3. Euro Travel Coach

Euro Travel Coach

4. Jayway Travel

Jayway Travel

5. Rewilding Europe

Rewilding Europe

6. Travel Greece Travel Europe

Travel Greece Travel Europe

7. Wild Junket Adventure » Europe

Wild Junket Adventure » Europe

8. Travel Dudes » Europe

Travel Dudes » Europe

9. Hospitality Net

Hospitality Net

10. The Travel Magazine » Europe

The Travel Magazine » Europe

11. A Luxury Travel Blog » Europe

 A Luxury Travel Blog » Europe

12. Chasing the Donkey

Chasing the Donkey

13. European Travel Commission

European Travel Commission

14. Heather on Her Travels

Heather on Her Travels

15. Europe Up Close

Europe Up Close

16. Happy to Wander

Happy to Wander

17. Dan Flying Solo

Dan Flying Solo

18. Heart My Backpack

Heart My Backpack

19. Marbella Family Blog

Marbella Family Blog

20. Kami and the Rest of the World

Kami and the Rest of the World

21. Travelling Weasels

Travelling Weasels

22. Travelling Buzz | Travel Blog about Bulgaria and Europe

Travelling Buzz | Travel Blog about Bulgaria and Europe

23. Life Beyond Borders - A Life in Greece & Travel Blog.

Life Beyond Borders - A Life in Greece & Travel Blog.

24. Travel And Tour World » Europe

Travel And Tour World » Europe

25. Vienna Unwrapped

Vienna Unwrapped

26. Nomad is Beautiful » Europe

Nomad is Beautiful » Europe

27. The Travel Hack Blog

The Travel Hack Blog

28. Wonderful Wanderings

Wonderful Wanderings

29. Wanderlust Chloe » Europe

Wanderlust Chloe » Europe

30. BudgetTraveller » Europe

BudgetTraveller » Europe

31. Europe Diaries

Europe Diaries

32. Inside Out In Istanbul

Inside Out In Istanbul

33. Emily Luxton Travels » Europe

Emily Luxton Travels » Europe

34. Opodo Travel Blog » Europe

Opodo Travel Blog » Europe

35. On the Luce travel Blog

On the Luce travel Blog

36. Perceptive Travel Blog » Europe Travel

Perceptive Travel Blog » Europe Travel

37. Tour Europe

Tour Europe

38. To Europe And Beyond

To Europe And Beyond

39. An Adventurous World » Europe

An Adventurous World » Europe

40. Italia Slow Tour

Italia Slow Tour

41. Retired And Travelling » Europe Travel

Retired And Travelling » Europe Travel

42. Bookings For You Blog

Bookings For You Blog

43. Keep Calm And Travel » Europe

Keep Calm And Travel » Europe

44. My Magic Earth

My Magic Earth

45. Probe around the Globe » Europe

Probe around the Globe » Europe

46. Vacations & Travel » Europe

Vacations & Travel » Europe

47. Travelling Jezebel

Travelling Jezebel

48. The Road Trip Guy

The Road Trip Guy

49. A Wanderlust for Life Blog

A Wanderlust for Life Blog

50. Wanderlust Crew » Europe

Wanderlust Crew » Europe

51. Geeky Explorer » Europe

Geeky Explorer » Europe

52. Historic Hotels of Europe

Historic Hotels of Europe

53. Cool Kidz Cool Trips

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Home » Europe

Travel blogs, travel photos and features from Europe

Europe Travel Guide

The ultimate guide to the coolest things to do and see when traveling in europe – only from travels of adam.

Europe is one of the most dynamic and interesting places to visit in the world—from the picturesque villages of southern Spain to the arctic villages in Scandinavia. Europe’s charms lie not just in the big metropolis cities but also in the small-town villages, the nature trails, the ski resorts and the Mediterranean beaches. There’s truly something for every type of traveler and in every season, too. Whether it’s Europe’s best gay cities or travel tips for Europe’s secret hotspots, get the juiciest and coolest tips here. Start here with my basic travel tips, or jump down below to read the latest travel blogs from Europe.

Top Europe Travel Guides

Hipster Guide to Barcelona

Popular Europe Travel Blogs

  • Europe’s Top 12 Most Gay-Friendly Cities
  • How to Find the Coolest Things to Do in Europe
  • Europe’s Coolest Small Cities
  • 8 Best LGBT Events & Festivals in Europe
  • 3 Money-Saving Tips for Backpacking around Europe
  • Orientalism & Chinoiserie architecture around Europe

When to Visit

naples italy

Basically: visit Europe anytime. There’s always going to be something great to see or do. And the museums (some of the best in the world) never close…

Two Weeks in Europe

Sleeping on Trains

  • London – Paris – Brussels – Amsterdam – Berlin : Plan to stay longer in London, Paris and Berlin, with short stopovers for one or two days in Brussels and Amsterdam. But be careful in Berlin; you might never want to leave!
  • Madrid – Barcelona – Nice – Florence – Rome : Spain is one of Europe’s best destinations for travelers (and one of the most gay-friendly, too!) so you might find it challenging to leave. Madrid and Barcelona are both world-class cities, but make your way from Spain to Italy and you won’t be disappointed. Just make sure to pack some sunscreen and schedule plenty of time to relax on the beaches!

LGBT – Gay Europe Guide

Europe as a whole is one of the most liberal and LGBT-friendly destinations. Each country has their own specific laws and societies, however, so it is important to know a little bit about local, country-specific safety before traveling in Europe.

Any Lonely Planet guidebook or other will include basic LGBT travel safety tips and recommendations for each destination, but if you’re looking for gay travel tips for each city or country, it can be more useful to check this website or other LGBT-specific travel resources. Make sure to check out my list of Europe’s Top 10 Most LGBT-Friendly Cities  for my favorite bars, clubs and queer events in Europe.

Hotel Deals

You can find all kinds of accommodation across Europe, from budget hostel rooms to luxurious hotels fit for a king! I’ve always found that using Booking.com, Agoda.com or Hotels Combined I get the best deals especially for last-minute trips.

Follow @ travelsofadam on Instagram for more Europe travel tips!

Europe Travel Blogs

Lgbtq+ friendly places to visit in london.

London is one of the greatest cities on the planet and has plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly places to visit. The city always has a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ travellers. Whether you are interested in nightlife or just checking out the city’s vibrant streets, London is a place you can never forget. London caters to everyone and …

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The Ultimate Guide to Car Hire at Malaga Airport for the LGBTQ+ Traveler

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Go East! Guide to the 10 Things to do in East London

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10 Tourist Things To Do in Central London

Central London may be the City of London’s business centre, but it’s also where you can find many tourist attractions and unique things to do and see

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Muggle Tours Review: The Search for Harry Potter in London

Obsessed with Harry Potter, I took a tour with MuggleTours to find Harry Potter film locations and learn new trivia from JK Rowling’s books & films

An Introduction to Dutch Design Week - Travels of Adam - https://travelsofadam.com/2017/10/dutch-design-week

An Introduction to Dutch Design Week

One of Europe’s biggest design events, the Dutch Design Week showcases thousands of unique and innovative designs covering a number of different subjects—from fashion to sustainability, art to robotics. Explore some of the best designs in this beginner’s guide to the festival

Two Week Traveller

2 Weeks in Europe: 6 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Europe is a continent consisting of 44 countries with diverse languages, climates, and cultures . It has numerous world-famous landmarks preserved from years upon years of history.

Spending 2 weeks in Europe will cover plenty of amazing places. It’s not much, but a good start, especially if it’s your first time here.bulga

Another great thing about Europe is that the places are close to each other, you can reach most of them via train, buses, and driving. Land borders separate the countries. However, many of them practice free movement across borders.

This continent has peninsulas, islands, and varied landforms, as well as seas, lakes, and other bodies of water. There are infinite fascinating places to see, foods to taste, and activities to try out during your 2 weeks in Europe.

TIP : This is a long-form article, I highly recommend you check the Table of Contents below to help you navigate the page easier and faster.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING EUROPE

4 IMAGES - colourful houses in bergen, london tower, colosseum in rome, and buildings by the sea - 2-Weeks in Europe Itinerary

Before you go book your flight and hotels, take a look at the information below first. It will help you visualise and plan your itinerary better. You can get ideas on when to go, how to travel around, and what to pack.

When is the best time to go to Europe

This depends on what you plan to do. Most people go to Europe during summer, but of course, if you want to ski, come between December and February. I personally love going in spring and summer, during autumn, it’s also very pretty but it rains a lot.

You might want to consider travelling during the off-season because this is when there are fewer travellers and the prices of accommodations and tours aren’t sky-high so you’ll be able to save quite a bit.

Getting around Europe

The best way to get around Europe is to rent a car especially if the country you’re visiting are next to each other or have an open border agreement. It’s cheaper and gives you freedom of your time.

However, if you are crossing countries and they are not next to each other, you are probably better off flying than doing a long drive. Check first if your driver’s license is valid in Europe and check what type of cars each country you are going to have.

For example, Italy, Spain, and France are known for using a stick or manual transmission. While the UK and Ireland drive on the left.

Buses and trains are quite reliable and affordable. But there are also domestic flights which are affordable as long as you don’t pack too much unless you are willing to pay extra.

Language and currency

There are over 24 official languages in Europe. You should be able to get around with English but it’s important to also learn basic words to show respect for each country’s culture and easily communicate with locals.

Luckily though, most countries in Europe use Euro, except in the UK, Nordic countries, and maybe some countries in East Europe. It’s easy to pay with credit cards but carrying cash with you for emergencies is still advisable.

Visa and COVID-19 policy

Each country has different visa rules, however, if your destination is an EU member, they have the same visa policy; 90 days visa-free for visitors with a passport from North America, some Latin America, some Southeast Asia and East Asia, and most Oceania. This also applies to non-EU countries such as Switzerland and Norway.

For visitors with a passport from the EU or a European country, you should have freedom of movement for unlimited time except for some nationalities such as the UK and countries in East Europe.

Europe is open to COVID-1 vaccinated tourists. If you are unvaccinated, best to check if your destination has extra entry requirements. Depending on the airline and destination, you might be required to submit a test before boarding.

Wearing a mask is no longer required in many places in Europe, but it’s smart to carry one just in case you get to countries that still require them. Read about the EU reopening .

What is the average cost for 2 weeks in Europe

As diverse as the European culture is, the cost also varies a lot. The budget for 14 days in Europe depends on a few things such as the countries, type of tours, accommodation, and how you plan to move around.

$800 in Eastern Europe will not work for Scandinavia. $800 is a tight budget, but it might work for more affordable countries such as Eastern Europe or the Baltics (assuming this excludes the flights to the region and back). $1,000 will be fine for southern-east Europe, and $1,500 will be decent for central Europe. While west Europe and the Nordics plan to spend around $3,000.

The accommodation will cost the most expensive, but the food can be budgeted. Then the transportation. You can either use public transport or rent a push bike when moving around the cities. Take the bus or train when travelling to the next country or ride a plane.

Travelling during the peak season will also cost a lot more. Check under each itinerary to see the average cost of a 2-week trip in Europe.

Other basic travel tips

Planning a trip can be exhausting and often overwhelming. To make it a bit easier, I use travel sites and services that have flexible cancellation policies in case I change my mind or my travel dates. Here’s a list of travel tools I use. From flight selections, affordable hotels, wide-range options for car rentals, and even affordable travel insurance.

TOP PLACES IN EUROPE (pinned map)

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN EUROPE ITINERARIES

I will show your six itinerary options to choose from for your 14 days in Europe. Covering multiple countries and featuring famous attractions that are historical, cultural, and outdoor activities.

Deciding where to spend your 2 weeks in Europe can be hard. Should it be in Spain or Portugal? How about both? Should you visit Rome or Paris ? When unsure, there are a few things you can do to see which places are more suitable for you.

For example, Rome would be ideal if you love historical sites such as ruins. Perhaps you like history, but in the form of art, then Paris is the one. For food lovers, don’t miss visiting France, Spain, Italy, and Greece.

Itinerary #1 South Europe: Spain and France or France and Italy

We have two sub-options in our first itinerary for your 2 weeks in Europe. This includes either Spain and France or France and Italy. Spain is well-known for its lively culture, flamenco, arts, and literature, as well as its wines, beaches, and, of course, football.

If you feel like this itinerary is a little too expensive, you can instead go to Portugal. Take a look at how to spend 2 weeks in Portuga l or even just a few days in Lisbon. Spending 14 days in Southern Europe is a good place to do your first trip to this continent.

France, on the other hand, is well-known for macarons, wine, champagne, great pastries, as well as fashion, museums, and other historical sites. You could also do many water activities in France or if you plan to come during winter, you can head to the Alps for some skiing.

Italy is loved for its opera, its art cities, unique scenery, and good food. They are also among the four fashion capitals, with luxury brands, and of course, who could forget the Vespa?

If you have never been to Italy, make sure you visit Venice, Rome, Florence, and the southwest coast, where you can visit Naples for Amalfi and Sorrento. You can also consider 2 weeks in Greece for this itinerary. Not to mention, the south is a famous region to spend honeymoon in Europe .

Spain for 7 days

2 images - sunset over cordoba, spain and dome church in venice - 2-weeks in europe

Spain is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, not only for foreign visitors but also for other European nations. With its stunning beaches, yummy food, and very welcoming culture, Spain is undeniably a must-visit when you come to Europe for 2 weeks.

Most people go to Madrid, the capital of Barcelona, a coastal city. However, if you want to get away from big crowds, head to Seville, Valencia, or even Zaragoza. For young travellers who love to dance and party, Ibiza is a top spot, while Palma, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria are awesome islands to explore and spend your vacation in.

We have a specific 2 weeks in Spain itinerary , which might help you plan a trip there if you decide to spend your trip in one European country only.

Here are some of the top-rated attractions in Spain :

  • Alhambra and Generalife in Granada
  • Palacio Real in Madrid – get your ticket in advance
  • El Escorial near Madrid
  • Aqueduct of Segovia – north of Madrid
  • Sagrada Familia and Gaudi Sites in Barcelona – check tour prices
  • Great Mosque in Cordoba, near Seville
  • Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
  • Beaches of Gran Canaria

France for 7 days

Some of the options to reach France from Spain include flying, taking a train, riding the bus, using rideshare or driving. The most recommended option is to ride a plane, but if you have plenty of time, you should consider renting a car and driving on your own. We have an article with 3 different itineraries on how to spend 2 weeks in France .

France is a country famous for many reasons. The food is great, it is rich in culture, the abundance of historical sites, and thousands of wineries to explore. France is also known for Tour de France and is a great holiday destination any time of the year. You should geat a hop-on hop-off bu s that will take you to the top attractions of Paris.

Paris is an obvious place to visit, but if you don’t like big cities or have been here before, you can consider other places. For history buffs, head to Calais, Dunkirk, and Normandy. For those who love the outdoors, check out Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Bordeaux (aka the Basque region).

Here are some of the top attractions n France:

  • The Louvre in Paris – book a guided tour
  • Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres near Paris
  • Eiffel Tower in Paris – get your skip-the-line ticket in advance
  • Chateau de Versailles in Paris – visit with a garden access
  • Mont Saint Michel
  • Loire Valley Chateaux
  • Côte d’Azur aka French Riviera in the South
  • Provence for lavender fields
  • Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for skiing in the Alps

Italy for 7 days

To reach Italy from France, you could either take the train or fly but taking the train is preferred by most tourists and locals alike because you’ll be able to reach your destination in less than five hours anyway. There are tons of routes to choose from if you want to see some interesting scenery and plan to drive instead.

2 weeks in Europe have to include Italy. It is loved for its dishes to die for, beautiful castles, amazing hiking trails, and warm culture. Just like in Spain and France, wine in Italy is world-class and their historical sites are well preserved.

Before you book anything, decide where you want to go. Rome and Venice are the top places to visit in Italy. But if you have been there, it’s time to explore Florence, Milan, Bologna, and Genoa in the north. For the south, head to Naples, Sicily, and all the way to Palermo. Check out our 4 itineraries for 2 weeks in Italy .

Some of the top tourist attractions in Italy include :

  • Colosseum in Rome – get your ticket in advance to skip the very long queue
  • Spanish Steps in Rome
  • Trevi Fountain in Rome
  • Venice Grand Canal – don’t skip the romantic gondola ride
  • Gode Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice – explore with a tour guide and secure a ticket
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Vatican City near Rome; Basilica of St. Peter, Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums – you can visit this in one go
  • The Uffizi Gallery in Florence
  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence
  • Lake Como near Milan
  • Cinque Terre
  • Amalfi Coast
  • Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in Naples – visit this and the entirety of Naples on a day trip from Rome

Travel cost

These three destinations are one of the most expensive places in Europe. Budget around $2,000 for a 2-week trip around Spain, France, and Italy not including the flights from your location and back. Accommodation will be the most expensive cost while food is quite affordable in these places.

Of course, if you want to travel with luxury, you can easily spend $3,000-$5,000 which will allow you to stay at 4-5 star hotels, dine at fancy restaurants, and take a private car with a driver anywhere.

For those on a tight budget, $1,500 is possible , however, you will likely stay at youth hostels and share a room with other people in dorm/bunk rooms or even look at Couchsurfing. You can also save more money by looking at ready-to-eat meals at grocery stores or cooking in the hostel is possible. Join a free walking tour where you will be expected to give a tip based on the tour guide and the tour itself.

Itinerary #2 Central Europe: Germany and Poland

For this next itinerary, we’ll be covering 2 weeks in Central Europe, which consists of the countries Germany, Poland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary. However, in this itinerary, we’ll only be covering Germany and Poland.

Germany is well-known for its cathedrals, castles, palaces, and colourful architecture, as well as its sausages and beers. It has many historical sites relating to World War I and II. Berlin is loved for being vegan-friendly, but meat-eaters shouldn’t have a problem finding their way around restaurants either.

Conversely, Poland is famous for its food, stunning geography, folklore, history, and friendly locals. In Poland, you’ll find Europe’s most ancient forest, Medieval Castle, the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau Camp, amazing museums, and more.

Apart from that, you can also visit theme parks in Poland, such as Engerylandia Theme Park, Rabkoland, and Aquapark Sopot.

2 images - bavarian houses in germany and st mary church in krakow, poland - 2-weeks in europe

Germany for 8 days

Germany has so many things to offer that it would take 8 days to satiate your curiosity, and even then, you would barely scratch the surface. Don’t overwhelm yourself trying to see everything in 8 days. If you want t visit Germany only, we have these 2 weeks in Germany itineraries .

Most people will go to Berlin or Munich, but there are also other cities such as Hamburg, Frankfurt, Nuremberg and Cologne to name a few. I highly recommend you rent a car to move around easier, but taking a domestic flight or the train is also easy and affordable.

If you’re going to Berlin, the best way to see all the top attractions is by buying a hop-on hop-off bus with live a tour guide .

Here’s a list of the top attractions in Germany:

  • Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
  • Berlin Wall
  • Cruise the River Spree – book a 2.5-hour boat tour
  • Museum Island in Berlin
  • Sachsenhausen Memorial – visit with a tour guide
  • Neuschwanstein Castle near Munich
  • Linderhof Palace near Munich – book a combo tour with Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Marienplatz in Munich
  • Pay respects at Dachau Concentration Camp – join a tour from Munich
  • Kölner Dom in Cologne
  • The Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg, near Stuttgart
  • Miniatur Wunderland at Port of Hamburg
  • Bamberg and the Bürgerstadt near Nuremberg

Poland for 8 days

There are tons of modes of transportation from Germany to Poland, including boarding a plane, using rideshare cars, trains, buses, or driving. Flights between these two countries are frequent and affordable.

Poland has a dark history, but the country is more than that. It has stunning lakes, UNESCO sites, and rather interesting cuisine, and it is in the top 20 safest countries in the world – a great place to discover if you are travelling alone.

Poland also has the biggest castle in the world, and many believe that vodka originated in Poland. In winter, you can ski in Poland, which is more affordable than France, Switzerland, and even Italy.

Many foreigners get confused and think Krakow is the capital of Piland, but it’s actually Warsaw. Apart from these two cities, you can also visit Gdansk, Wroclaw, Katowice, and Lublin. Most of the cities are connected via buses and trains hence moving around during your 2 weeks in Europe shouldn’t be a problem.

>>TIP: Check out our 2 weeks in Poland post if you prefer to explore that country on a single trip. There are two itineraries to choose from.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Poland:

  • Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow
  • Auschwitz- Birkenau Camps near Krakow – book a guided tour or combine it with the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour
  • Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory in Krakow
  • Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow
  • Warsaw Old Marketplace
  • Lazienki Park in Warsaw
  • Malbork Castle near Gdansk
  • Morskie Oko Lake and Hot Bath Pools near Zakopane – check tour prices
  • Crooked Forest near Szczecin

Travel cost:

Central Europe in general can be costly, but only if you plan to visit Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Poland and Czechia are both affordable destinations compared to their neighbouring countries. $2,000 will take you a long way if you choose one expensive place to spend a week and the other one is a more affordable country (e.g Germany and Poland or Switzerland and Czechia).

You can save even more money if you focus on Poland or Czechia only or book a trip to Switzerland just for 2-3 days instead of an entire week.

$5,000 will be a great budget for a luxury trip . This is suitable for couples who are on their honeymoon or retiree travellers. For young visitors and backpackers, you can probably get away with $1,000 to $1,500 for the 2 weeks trip .

Accommodation in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria is costly but affordable in Poland and Czechia. Rely on using public transportation in all countries, such as buses and trains, instead of renting a car or flying.

Itinerary #3 Baltics: Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia

The Baltics are one of the most affordable regions in Europe. Although it has its fair share of tourists, the streets and attractions don’t get too busy, even during the summer season. It’s an awesome place to spend your 2 weeks in Europe vacation without being surrounded by a big crowd.

Lithuania is famous for its natural scenery, including forests, lakes, flatlands, and other landscapes. There are also historical spots here to visit, and you must try their local ciders. I personally loved their local food, especially beetroot. If you’re a foody, check this Vilnius food guide for a list of must-try dishes.

Conversely, Latvia is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and art nouveau architecture. It’s on the coast, hence if visiting during summer, don’t forget to dip your toes.

Last but definitely not least is Estonia, which is famous for its dense woods, thousands of uninhabited islands, and rich history. It experienced a boom in tourism recently since it implemented a digital nomad visa.

Estonia is among Europe’s most linguistic nations, is one of the countries with the cleanest air in the world, and half of the country is made up of forest, which probably explains the great air quality. We also have two itineraries specifically for 2 weeks in the Baltics only or 2 weeks in Eastern Europe itineraries .

2 images - aerial view of Trakai Castle and snowy tallin - 2-weeks in europe

Lithuania for 5 days

Lithuania is rich in cultural preservation, so much so that UNESCO considered their folk dance as one of the intangible cultural heritages. They also have one of the oldest languages, even older than Greek, German, and Celtic, and the oldest tree in Europe could be found here as well.

With five days in Lithuania, you can do and see a lot of things. You can cover at least two major cities; the capital city Vilnius, and the cultural art city of Kaunas. If it’s warm enough, head to the coast and visit Klaipeda.

Here is a list of the best places to see in Lithuania:

  • Gediminas Castle Tower in Vilnius
  • Vilnius Cathedral Square
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight – over Vilnius or Trakai Castle
  • Energetikos ir technikos muziejus in Vilnius
  • Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights and A.Mickiewicz Memorial Museum in Vilnius
  • MO Muziejus in Vilnius
  • Gates of Dawn in Vilnius
  • Three Crosses Monument in Vilnius – join a full-day tour from Vilnius
  • Walk around Uzupis
  • Trakai Castle near Vilnius
  • Kaunas Castle
  • Devils’ Museum in Kaunas
  • Hill of Crosses near Šiauliai

Latvia for 4 days

You can go to Latvia from Lithuania by driving, riding a bus, plane, or taking the train. The most recommended option is through riding a bus as it is the cheapest and fastest. Latvia is also a great destination during summer. You can take a swim on its sandy beaches, lakes, and rivers.

You can either spend the entire 4 days in Riga, the capital city or take day trips to see Gauja National Park and Turaida Museum Reserve for example. You can also explore Riga on a segway tour .

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Latvia :

  • House of the Black Heads in Riga – get your ticket in advance
  • Riga Cathedral
  • Three Brothers, Latvian Museum of Architecture
  • St. Peter’s Church
  • The Freedom Monument in Riga
  • Shop souvenirs at Riga Central Market – join a food-tasting tour
  • Gauja National Park outside of Riga
  • Rundale Palace and Museum ner Jelgava

Estonia for 4 days

To reach Estonia if you’re coming from Latvia, you could board a plane, ride a bus, take the train, or drive. The most recommended option would be to ride a plane as it’s the fastest, but the cheapest option would be to take the bus.

Estonia is very unique, they have islands but are inhabited – and that makes them interesting to visit. There, you can go fishing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and for those who love birds, birdwatching is a popular thing to do in Estonia.

Tallinn, the capital, is obviously the most popular destination. However, with 2 weeks in Europe, around the Baltics, you can also head to Parnu and Tartu – both are located in the south of Estonia. Go to Haeska, Kabili, and Matsalu for birdwatching and wildlife experiences.

Here are some of the sights to see in Estonia :

  • Tallinn’s Old Town
  • Lennusadam Seaplane Harbor in Tallinn
  • Lahemaa National Parl – sign up to a day trip
  • Patarei Prison Exhibition/Communism Prison in Tallinn
  • Parnu’s Beaches
  • Alpakafarm near Parnu
  • Estonian National Museum in Tartu
  • Tagurpidi Maja (Peapeal OÜ) / Upside Down House in Tartu
  • TYPA Letterpress and Paper Art Centre in Tartu
  • Kuressaare Castle in Saare
  • Join a 3-hour food tour

Travelling around the Baltics is one of my favourite destinations and one I recommend if you’re on a budget. You will still experience the European culture, walk through the alleys and paves with cobbled stone, and eat delicious meals.

It’s honestly possible to travel here for around $1,000 for those on a budget . You will stay in a hostel and consume street food or grocery store meals. The tours also don’t cost that much. Accommodation is around $25 to $35 a night, but transportation is cheap.

$2,000 is the average cost where you get to have a private room and try out a few local restaurants. For a luxury trip, $3,000 will get you very comfortable.

Itinerary #4 East Europe: Hungary and Croatia or Romania and Bulgaria

East Europe is a massive region. You will have to choose 2-3 countries to cover during your visit and perhaps next time, you go to new places. Right now, we’ll only cover 4 destinations for your 12-day in Europe itinerary; Hungary and Croatia or Romania and Bulgaria.

Croatia has so much to offer, but in the last few years, being the filming location of Game of Thrones, this country attracted more tourists. Aside from that, they also have stunning waterfalls and gorgeous Adriatic Islands, among other landscapes.

Hungary on the other hand is famous for its ruin bars, paprikas, and goulash. It also has sought-after outdoor and public thermal bars and great nightlife. Outside the city, Hungary has a lot of nature preserves and can be an affordable ski destination in winter.

Bulgaria is the oldest country in Europe and has tons of hot springs. It’s undeniable how affordable Bulgaria is as a travel destination. It also sits right on the Black Sea, a popular spot during summer.

Nightlife in Bulgaria is another reason tourists come here for its affordability. Speaking of cuisine, the traditional Bulgarian food is something of a must-try.

Romania is famous for its Carpathian Mountains, Salt Mines, and Medieval Fortresses. Just like Bulgaria, it’s also located on the Black Sea. One might want to visit Romania since it’s famous for being the home of Dracula.

2 images -city view of budapest and aerial view of dubrovnik, croatia - 2-weeks in europe

Hungary for 7 days

Hungary, like many other European countries, is a landlocked country. But it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy summer in Hungary. This country has over 1,000 natural springs water, hence, the popularity of its thermal baths.

Budapest is not the only city worth visiting in Hungary, you should also consider Debrecen and Szeged. While Balaton Uplands National Park is the spot to you want to go hiking, join wine tours, and be around nature.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in this country :

  • Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest
  • Budapest’s Széchenyi Thermal Bath – book a full-day spa
  • Buda Castle
  • Buy souvenirs at Central Market Hall
  • Take a boat cruise Danube River in Budapest – check cruise prices
  • Matthias Church in Budapest
  • Esztergom Basilica
  • The Caves of Lillafured near Miskolc
  • Lavender field at Tihany

Croatia for 7 days

It is relatively easy to travel to Croatia if you’re coming from Hungary as they are neighbouring countries. You could travel by bus, by train or by driving. Any option is fine, but the cheapest option would be to ride the night bus.

As mentioned before, Croatia is now popular for being the filming location for Game of Thrones, but there are other places to see in this magnificent country. Just like its neighbouring country of Italy, Croatia is also a fantastic beach destination and so much more affordable.

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and a must-visit, then you can go to the coast. The most popular city is Split and Dubrovnik, but Zadar,  Hvar, and Pula are an equally stunning area for swimming and other water activities.

Want to spend 14 days in Croatia ? Our guide has three itineraries you can check out and see which one suits you best.

Some of the top tourist attractions in this country include :

  • Dubrovnik’s Old Town Walls – join a walking tour
  • Trsteno Arboretum, Trsteno near Dubrovnik
  • Dubrovnik’s Lovrijenac Fort
  • Visit Game of Thrones filming locations – book a tour
  • Nikola Tesla Technical Museum in Zagreb
  • Diocletian’s Palace in Split – enjoy a walking tour with a local guide
  • Blue Cave, near Split – book the 5 island boat tour
  • Krka Waterfalls, near Split – visit on a boat tour
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park near Zadar
  • Kornati National Park near Zadar
  • Euphrasian Basilica in Porec
  • Pula’s Roman Arena
  • Swim at Galebove Stijene in Pula
  • Explore Brijuni/Brioni National Park near Pula
  • Mulini Beach in Rovinj

Romania for 7 days

A massive country in East Europe, Romania has a lot to offer. From national parks, vibrant cities, historical sites, and beach access to the Black Sea. Bucharest is known for great nightlife, but apart from that, it’s also rich in cultural and historical spots.

Other than Bucharest, you have to go to the Transylvanian region, known as the home of Dracula. If it’s warm enough, head to Constanza, while Brasov and Cluj-Napoca are the areas to go to during winter for skiing and other winter activities.

Here are some of the places you could visit once you reached Romania:

  • Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest
  • Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History in Bucharest
  • National Museum of Romanian History in Bucharest
  • Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest
  • Vaser Valley Forestry Railway
  • Bran Castle aka Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania – book a tour combo with Peles and Brasov trip
  • Sighisoara Historic Center
  • Covered Stairway in Sighisoara
  • The Clock Tower in Sighisoara
  • The Black Church in Brasov
  • Peles Castle near Brasov – book a 2-day tour from Bucharest to visit Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara
  • Bucegi Natural Park near Brasoc
  • Transylvanian Alps

Bulgaria for 7 days

Just south of Romania, you can reach Bulgaria by train, bus, or driving. The quickest option would be to drive, which would take you more or less five hours, but the cheapest option is by riding a train.

Another country with the best nightlife, Bulgaria is popular with young tourists. But it doesn’t mean non-partygoers cannot enjoy Bulgaria. This country is a great place to explore the outdoors. There are many hiking trails and to ski here, you don’t have to spend too much.

Head to the capital city, Sofia, but for winter sports, you can go to Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo. If you are coming during the warm months, you can still go to the Black Sea by heading toward Varna.

Some of the top spots in Bulgaria are:

  • National Palace of Culture in Sofia
  • Sofia History Museum
  • Rila Monastery – visit with combo tour to Boyana Church
  • Seven Rila Lakes – check tour price from Sofia
  • Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo
  • Belogradchik Rocks
  • Prohodna Cave in Karlukovo
  • Krushuna Waterfalls
  • The Rose Valley near Kazanluk
  • The Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis in Plovdiv – join a tour of Plovdiv, Asen’s Fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery
  • Pirin National Park near Plovdiv
  • Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari near Shumen

East Europe is one of the most affordable regions in Europe. The accommodation alone can range between $20-$30 while food and the use of public transportation are also very affordable.

It’s easy to travel on a budget in eastern Europe, around $800 is feasible for backpackers and young travellers. If you want to be comfortable, $1,000 will be great and get you your own private room and dine at restaurants. $2,000 can easily be a luxury trip in this region for a 2-week adventure.

Itinerary #5 Nordic: Iceland, Norway, and Denmark

The next option would be the Nordic countries, which consist of Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. However, in this itinerary, we will only cover Norway, Iceland, and Denmark.

Norway is also known as the Land of the Midnight Sun. It is famous for its fjords, lakes, and magical skies (Aurora Borealis), as well as Viking culture and folklore.

Iceland is also famous for a lot of natural wonders such as geysers, active volcanoes, and glaciers. You could also see the Northern Lights here. Iceland is relying 100% on renewable energy; hydropower, and geothermal.

Last but definitely not least is Denmark, which is well-known for its coastal towns, architecture, Royalty, and cuisine. Copenhagen is a must-visit. If you find yourself with extra time, you can hop on a train and head to Sweden.

2 images - colourful houses in bergen, norway and northern lights in iceland - 2-weeks in europe

Iceland for 4 days

Iceland is the land of fire and ice, and you might be wondering why. They have glaciers but have volcanically heated pools at the same time, where you could swim all year round. That’s pretty fascinating.

Aside from that, it is also a literary-focused country. In fact, one out of ten Icelanders will publish a book even at least once in their lifetime.

Iceland is not a big country, but spending four days here is plenty. Most tourists love staying in Reykjavik, but you don’t have to. If you want to save money, you can stay outside the city and rent a car instead. You can easily move around in your own car, which means it doesn’t matter if your hotel is not in the city.

We have a complete guide and itinerary for 2 weeks in Iceland .

Top attractions in Iceland:

  • Drive the Golden Circle
  • Blue Lagoon – get your ticket in advance including Kerid Volcanic Crater
  • Gullfoss Falls
  • Seljalandsfoss
  • Silfra – snorkel between 2 tectonic plates between North American and Europe
  • Þingvellir National Park
  • Jökulsárlón
  • Chase the Northern Lights – join a tour to find the best spot
  • Icelandic Phallological Museum
  • National Museum of Iceland
  • Reykjanesfólkvangur
  • Whale Watching near Reykjavik – book a cruise
  • Eystri-Fellsfjara / Diamond Beach

Norway for 6 days

You will need to ride a plane to reach Norway if you’re coming from Iceland. The fastest route takes more or less 6 hours. However, the journey would be worth it because there are so many sights and sceneries once you reach Norway.

This includes the world’s longest road tunnel and the world’s most remote island, among others. This is also an amazing place to ski during winter.

Many tourists usually go to Oslo and Bergen, but you can also add Stavanger, Kristiansand, and Tromso to your itinerary of 2 weeks in Europe.

If you want to see Fjords, you have to head west; from Trondheim all the way down to Stavanger. Check our 2 weeks in Norway itinerary list if you only want to see this country.

Here is a list of some of the best places to visit in Norway:

  • Bygdoy Peninsula in Oslo 
  • Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo
  • Viking Ship Museum in Oslo
  • Naeroyfjorden
  • Akershus Fortress in Oslo
  • Oslo’s Fjords – check tour prices or a cruise to Nærøyfjorden, Flåm, and Stegastein 
  • Hanseviertel Bryggen in Bergen
  • Sognefjord near Bergen
  • Osterrjod and Mostraumen near Bergen – join a cruise
  • Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), in Stavanger
  • Lofoten Islands
  • Geirangerfjord
  • Arctic Museum in Tromso
  • Find the Northern Lights from Tromso – book a guided tour
  • Atlantic Ocean Road

Denmark for 4 days

To reach Denmark from Norway, the best would be to take a plane. There is also a car ferry service, but with a limited time, it’s not ideal. Denmark has the oldest Monarchy in Europe.

Denmark is a small country but popular not only in Europe but around the world. For many years, it has been voted the happiest country in the world. It’s also known for being safe for tourists, the home birth of lego, and has the oldest monarchy in Europe and the oldest flag in the world.

Naturally, visitors will go to Copenhagen, but since the country (excluding Greenland and the Faroe Islands) is not that big, 4 days in Denmark is plenty

You can explore the entirety of Copenhagen and even have time to go to Odense, where the famous children’s book author Hans Christian Andersen was born. You can actually get to the city centre from Copenhagen airport in just 13 minutes – a great way to save time.

Here is a list of some of the best attractions in Denmark:

  • The Little Mermaid (Den Lille Havfrue) – explore Copenhagen in a day
  • Freetown Christiania
  • The King’s Garden
  • Amalienborg
  • Rosenborg Castle
  • Tivoli Gardens – get your ticket in advance
  • Botanical Garden
  • The Round Tower
  • Memorial Anchor
  • Copenhagen Opera House
  • Walk around Strøget
  • Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
  • Christiansborg Palace
  • Danish Architecture Centre
  • Ofelia Plads
  • Legoland in Billund
  • Hans Christian Andersen’s Childhood Home
  • H. C. Andersens House

Nordic and Scandinavia is undeniably the most expensive place to travel around Europe. Accommodation alone could run $100, and dining and consuming alcohol are costly as well. But taking the bus and train is a little bearable.

To ensure that you will enjoy your 2 weeks in Europe around this region, plan to spend about $2,000 . If you are on a budget, you can probably do it for $1,700 but no less. But for l uxury, your trip cost will really skyrocket up to $5,000 .

Itinerary #6 West Europe: The UK, Netherlands, and Belgium

The last itinerary option for your 2 weeks in Europe includes the countries the UK, Netherlands, and Belgium, also known as the west of Europe.

The UK is popular for many things, including its monarchy, culture, history, and performers. Being the home of four different countries; England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, you can easily say that it’s worth a visit. From bustling cities, amazing hiking trails, pubs to check out, and castles to explore.

There are tons of iconic places in the Netherlands despite it being a small country. The Netherlands is famous for many things . Here, you’ll be able to see windmills, cheese markets, bulb fields, and earthenware, among others. The Netherlands also have plenty of historical spots to discover including Anne Frank’s House.

The last country on our list is Belgium. They have high-quality chocolates, hence the name Belgian chocolate. This country is also well-known for waffles and beer and is the home to NATO headquarters.

2 images - tulip field with two windmills in netherlands and tower clock of london

The UK for 6 days

There are many things to see in the UK, and six days is definitely not going to be enough. But don’t panic. If this is your first time here, list the attractions you really want to see first. The world-famous Big Ben, London Eye, and River Thames can all be found here, and that’s just in London.

If you have been here before, perhaps, you can now explore less popular areas. Perhaps, you can focus on hiking instead of being in the city or just spend 14 days in England only, especially if it’s your first time.

It’s undeniable that the UK has the most famous monarchy in the world. London alone has a lot of attractions related to the British Monarchy and historical places. In order to make the most out of your trip, the recommended duration of stay is at least five days.

ALSO READ: 2 weeks in the UK , 2 weeks in England , and 2 weeks in Ireland and Northern Ireland itineraries.

List of some best places to see in the UK :

  • Tower Bridge
  • Stonehenge – book a combo tour with Windsor Castle and Bath
  • Buckingham Palace
  • The British Museum
  • Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition – buy your ticket in advance
  • Kensington Palace
  • Madame Tussauds – get your skip-the-line ticket
  • Shakespeare’s Globe
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral
  • Book a Harry Potter tour – Warner Bros. Studio
  • Scotney Castle
  • Bodiam Castle
  • Warwick Castle
  • Lake District National Park
  • Dean Village
  • Edinburgh Castle – book a skip-the-line tour
  • Palace of Holyroodhouse
  • Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands – check the tour price from Edinburgh
  • Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
  • Titanic Belfast – join a guided tour
  • Crumlin Road Gaol
  • Giants Causeway – visit with a stop at Dark Hedges, Dunluce, and Belfast
  • Free Derry Corner
  • The Derry Walls

The Netherlands for 4 days

You could either ride the train or drive if you want to reach the Netherlands from the UK. Once you reach the Netherlands, you could experience the biggest ice skating tour in the world, or join a cycling tour. You can also know more about world-famous painters like Van Gogh and Rembrandt.

Four days sounds too little but you can actually do a lot while in the Netherlands. You can of course explore Amsterdam, and head to The Hague, Rotterdam, and Groningen.

Some things to see and do in The Netherlands:

  • Jordaan and Amsterdam’s Canals – book the famous canal cruise
  • Anne Frank House
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Mauritshuis
  • Van Gogh Museum – enjoy with an audio guide
  • The Windmills of Kinderdijk
  • Hoge Veluwe National Park
  • Valkenburg Castle Ruins

Belgium for 4 days

To reach Belgium, you could ride the train, ride a bus, use rideshare, or drive. The cheapest option would be to use rideshare and the most recommended option would be to ride the train. It would take you almost 3 hours to reach your destination.

The popular cities in Belgium are Brussels which is the capital, Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges. You can take buses, trains, or rent a car to travel between cities. Don’t forget to go try different beers and waffles which are two of my favourite part of my visit.

Popular attractions in Belgium:

  • Grand Palace
  • Atomium – get your entry ticket in advance
  • Sign up for the famous Hungry Mary’s beer and chocolate tour or join chocolate making class
  • Manneken Pis
  • Day trip to Bruges and Ghent – enjoy with a tour guide
  • The Canals of Bruges
  • Battlefield in Flanders
  • Belfry of Bruges
  • Basilica of the Holy Blood
  • Bruges Beer Experience
  • Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
  • Gravensteen
  • Museum Aan de Stroom
  • The Rubens House

What I enjoy about travelling in western Europe is how it’s honestly a pricey place but it can be done on a budget. If you think you can stay on your feet for long hours and walking around is not a problem, you can easily cut costs by taking the bus or taxi. The accommodation will surely get you, but dining can be affordable.

The street food in all these countries is fun, globally diverse, and easy to find. For budget travellers, $1,700 is required for your 2-week trip and most likely requires you to stay in a youth hostel. $ 2,500 offers comfort and a bit of luxury where you can dine at nice restaurants. $4,000 means you can stay in hotels right downtown and near the top attractions, With this budget, you can even hire taxis during your entire trip.

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN EUROPE

There are so many countries to choose from if you plan to visit Europe. Fortunately, Europe has amazing transportation between cities and countries, making it easy to travel around even with limited time.

When planning your 14-day itinerary for Europe, don’t try to cram it too much. It’s better to travel a bit slower, see fewer places, but be able to enjoy and process everything you have seen and experienced. Europe is not going anywhere, you can always visit again and check out a new place.

I hope that you found these 2 weeks in Europe itineraries helpful in planning your own.

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Europe Travel Tips and Guide

Europe travel blog, tips, destinations, and guides. Collected blog posts on travel in Europe, from living in London and Romania and driving the full length of Europe, often. Also from visiting the tourist hot-spots of Europe that we’d stop at along the way. You’ll find Europe travel tips and ideas below as well as more detailed information on some of the best places in Europe for you to see on your European trip.

Europe Travel Tips Blog and Guide

What about you? What are your Europe plans? Are you just starting to consider a first-time visit to Europe or will this be a return trip?

Do you live in Europe and want to see more of the continent of Europe?

We hope to be able to help you with any aspect of travel in Europe, from this page.

You can purchase a 1 week, 1 month or multiple months eSIM for Europe, cheaply and hassle-free, here. These eSIMS are also available for most countries and regions.

Europe Blog

venice

This travel blog started as a personal journal of our travels, it wasn’t built to be an authoritative all-encompassing guide. We’re bringing multiple Europe trips together here to make all the information on our site work as a comprehensive Europe travel blog and guide.

We can’t write a single blog post and call it “Europe Travel Blog” so you’ll find dozens of individual blog posts below, detailing individual destinations and experiences in Europe.

It was best to have this page as a general guide for travel in Europe, with more detailed posts leading from it and to it. We hope you can find what you need here.

Europe Travel Tips

Europe Travel Blog London

A few general Europe travel tips to get you started.

  • Christmas holidays and long summer school holidays along with the Easter break can bring huge crowds to popular parts of Europe. Avoiding peak times will keep your prices down.
  • Countries that don’t have the Euro are often cheaper
  • Be aware of Schengen area visa restrictions.
  • If you’re driving – don’t forget to buy a vignette and be aware of driving laws and restrictions.
  • You’re unlikely to have difficulties if you only speak English, in most European countries locals are insanely good at English. But if you’re wandering off the beaten track, grab a phrasebook and learn what you can. It’s polite to try.
  • Avoid places that purely exist for tourists. Put money in local pockets, meet more local people, and learn more about the country you’re visiting by finding the shops, restaurants, and places the locals love.
  • You can zip around Europe cheaply by a budget airline – they’re all pretty similar – or use trains, buses, hire a car, ride a bike – Europe is pretty easy to get around.
  • The weather in Europe swings from hot summers to freezing winters, be prepared for anything and be sure to check weather outlooks. Don’t rule out visiting in the dark and cold of winter, it’s my favourite time to be in Europe.
  • What are the best places to visit in Europe? Visit our post about special places to see in Europe.

Getting Around Europe

Romania is in Europe

Driving around Europe is a dream, roads are generally good unless you get too far off the beaten track and highways connect most countries seamlessly.

Be aware that you could run into road tolls or need to buy a ticket or vignette to use European roads.

Flying around Europe using budget airlines has been ridiculously cheap in recent years. We don’t think there’s much difference between the budget airlines, but we use Wizz Air often.

European travel is also easy by train, the train even goes under the channel to London’s St Pancreas station. On top of this, Europe is popular for river cruises, canal boats, and Mediterranean cruise journeys, stopping at major ports.

Getting Around Europe By Air

Flying is super affordable on the short hop budget routes of Europe. Sometimes prices are unbelievably low with all of the budget airlines being fairly similar.

I would never particularly choose one airline over another and you get what you pay for. Be aware that the airports used by the budget airlines may be inconveniently situated outside major cities.

Travel in Europe By Water

Have you considered a canal boat holiday? Maybe a coastal sailing adventure or a grand river cruise?

There are plenty of options for water-based vacations in Europe and let’s not forget the possibility of cruising the Mediterranean or Scandinavian fjords.

I should also mention ferries, the ferries from the UK to continental Europe are good, cheap and easy to book, we’ve even turned up at a ferry port and bought a ticket on the spot.

Travel Europe By Road

This is our area of expertise I guess. We would drive from Romania to London and back every year. Not many people can say they’ve done that.

We did it by car but to explore Europe by camper van, motorhome or even motorbike or bicycle would be a superb opportunity. That’s one for our bucket list.

Travelling Europe By Train

Europe is pretty well set up for train travel. A rail network covers most of Europe’s main destinations and you can even let the train take the strain from London, via the Channel Tunnel, into France, Belgium and beyond.

Special passes exist for extended train travel in Europe and can offer great value.

If we consider Russia as part of Europe, (Russia is a transcontinental country) don’t forget the Trans Siberian or Trans Mongolian Express.

The other classic train journey of course is the Orient Express. The privately operated Venice Simplon Orient Express travels from London to Venice but the full journey originally went to Constantinople, modern Istanbul.

European Visas

Europe can be divided into three areas. The European Union, European Economic Area and the Schengen Area.

These 3 areas overlap and countries can be members of more than one.

If you enter a Schengen country you receive a Schengen 90 day visa – usually. Please check and double-check all this information, we did our best to give a rough guide for the main nationalities visiting Europe.

The Schengen Area is the largest with 26 countries and includes all EU countries except the UK, Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia. Sweden, Norway and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

People of most nationalities will be awarded a 90 day visa that is valid for all countries in the Schengen zone which means you have 90 days total even if you hop between member countries.

It is worth noting that there are no land borders with crossing formalities across most of the EU with the main ones being into and out of the countries listed above.

Monico, San Marino and the Vatican City aren’t members of the Schengen area but have no hard borders with surrounding countries.

Visa rules for countries not in the Schengen area are effectively the same, normally allowing 90 days travel at a time in that one country.

To reset your Schengen visa you’d need to leave the 26 countries and travel to a non-member such as Romania etc. listed above. 

On re-entry, you can generally claim another 90-day visa, but you can ony do this once every 6 months or 180 days, twice in a year.

Basically, if after 90 days in Europe you wish to remain, you’ll need to swap to a non-Schengen country or countries and stay there for 3 months before you can get back into the Schengen zone for another 90 days.

Make sense? Thought not.

We highly recommend Romania, we lived there for 3 years, go there.

If you hold an EU passport then you are free to travel, work, and live, in any other EU country.

Brexit is still undecided at time of writing, British people will likely lose all privileges if Brexit happens.

Please check all visa information for Europe thoroughly as it is very complex. Don’t take this site as a definitive guide, we’re just giving you a brief overview.

Highlights of Europe and Must-Visit Destinations

A few of our favourite places in Europe receive full cover below.

Road Trips in Europe

Our content on driving in Europe, our experiences with our Europe road trips is in the blog posts below. We can also add some general tips for driving in Europe to this page.

There are certain rules and regulations for driving in Europe that you need to be aware of and of course, know that you need to pay to drive on some roads and in some countries.

Border crossings go almost unnoticed within the Eu these days, you can cross from one country to the next without even realising. It’s only where you cross into the non-Schengen countries that you’ll likely encounter border formalities.

Countries Where Buying a Vingnette May be Required

Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland.

Vignettes are European driving authorizations. Some are stickers, others aren’t.

I found the list above on an authoritative website ( source ) but our experience, from living in Romania and spending a lot of time in this part of the world, is that you don’t need them for every road. But obviously, check this for yourself.

I was fined in Hungary for not having one simply because I bought mine the morning after I crossed the border. Despite having one, I still had to pay the fine. So read up on regulations and stay within the law.

In other parts of Europe, you will encounter road tolls. A good map app will help you find toll-free routes and honestly, avoiding the Autobahns is a far more enjoyable way to tour Europe.

European Travel Blog FAQ

The language barrier. will it be a problem in europe.

Generally, no, you shouldn’t run into too many language difficulties in Europe.

In cities and popular tourist places, you’re unlikely to need anything more than English. However, if you’re venturing into remote, less-visited or rural areas, you possibly will.

We have found that youngsters speak English well, more so than old people. In Europe kids learn English, it’s just the way it is. But do try to be polite, a please and thank you never goes unappreciated, and if you have the time, learn more.

Countries with alphabets other than standard Arabic can get very interesting! You may encounter Latin, Greek, Cyrillic, Armenian, Hebrew, Arabic, and Georgian scripts.

Road signs and other information signs may not be in English if you get deeper into Europe.

Can you drive freely between countries in Europe?

Yes, mostly, we could drive across any border in mainland Europe, within the European Union, without stopping or queuing.

Now, post-Brexit, things will change for us as we are UK passport holders.

The only borders where we had to stop were those for non-Schengen countries. So entering Romania we had to stop and show our passports and for entering the UK, but not leaving.

Is it best to visit Europe in summer or winter?

Both. Europe is an awesome destination at any time of year, depending on what you want to do. In winter there is excellent skiing of course, Christmas markets, beautiful snowy mountains and hearty food.

In summer the Mediterranean Sea has incredible beaches and swimming.

My pick for sightseeing would be spring or autumn outside school holiday. That way you’ll avoid the crowds while avoiding weather extremes.

Are power sockets the same throughout Europe?

Most of Europe has round, two-pronged power sockets and plugs. If you need to pack a power adapter, this is the sort that will be most useful.

This sort also works for many countries in Asia. Remember that the UK has 3 prong square pin plugs and sockets, for that you’ll need a different power adapter.

Budget for European travel?

Costs wise, there are big variations across Europe. We find prices in Europe to be higher than most of Asia, slightly higher than the US, lower than Australia, with Eastern and Central Europe being much cheaper than Western Europe.

The UK is quite expensive but having lived in both, I think it’s cheaper than Australia. It’s impossible to give a daily budget for Europe as a whole.

To keep costs down, buy your own food in supermarkets. Eating out will add up fast in Europe, you won’t find Asia’s superb $1 meals here.

Generally, no, you shouldn’t run into too many language difficulties in Europe. In cities and popular tourist places, you’re unlikely to need anything more than English.

However, if you’re venturing into remote, less-visited or rural areas, you possibly will. We have found that youngsters speak English well, more so than old people. In Europe kids learn English, it’s just the way it is.

But do try to be polite, a please and thank you never goes unappreciated, and if you have the time, learn more.

Countries with alphabets other than standard Arabic can get very interesting! You may encounter Latin, Greek, Cyrillic, Armenian, Hebrew, Arabic, and Georgian scripts.  Road signs and other information signs may not be in English if you get deeper into Europe.

Yes, mostly, we could drive across any border in mainland Europe, within the European Union, without stopping or queuing. Now, post-Brexit, and post-pandemic things will change for us as we are UK passport holders.

The only borders where we have had to stop were those for non-Schengen countries. So entering Romania we had to stop and show our passports and for entering the UK, but not leaving.

Europe is good to visit is both summer and winter. Europe is an awesome destination at any time of year, depending on what you want to do.

In winter there is excellent skiing, of course, Christmas markets, beautiful snowy mountains and hearty food.

In summer the Mediterranean Sea has incredible beaches and swimming. My pick for sightseeing would be spring or autumn outside the school holiday. That way you’ll avoid the crowds while avoiding weather extremes.

Most of Europe has round, two pronged power sockets and plugs. If you need to pack a power adapter, this is the sort that will be most useful. This sort also works for many countries in Asia. Remember that the UK has 3 prong square pin plugs and sockets, for that you’ll need a different power adapter.

Budget for European travel

The UK is quite expensive but having lived in both, I think it’s cheaper than Australia.

It’s impossible to give a daily budget for Europe as a whole. To keep costs down, buy your own food in supermarkets. Eating out will add up fast in Europe, you won’t find Asia’s superb $1 meals here.

Europe Travel Blog. Conclusion

We hope you find what you’re looking for in our Europe Travel Blog section. Our Europe tips, guides, and destinations grow constantly. If there is a particular place you want to see in Europe and we haven’t created a blog post about it yet, go ahead and ask in the comments. Thanks.

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

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Alyson Long

Port douglas scuba diving, northern territory destinations top 10, 29 thoughts on “europe travel blog”.

The affordable Europe group tour was a great option for our family vacation. We got to visit popular destinations like London, Amsterdam, and Prague, and enjoyed family-friendly activities and attractions. The tour provided a balance between sightseeing and leisure time, making it a value-for-money experience.

The surreal experience promised by Venice makes the expense seem like nothing. I have booked the turkisturkish airline for my next voyage. You have shared that peak times lead to rise in the prices. If we choose other times, won’t we miss out on some of the fun? I was hoping to explore the city’s vibe during Christmas.

Turkish are a good airline, we’ve used them London – Istanbul (which is in Europe!). If you want to see special Christmas events, then yes, you’re going to have to pay the extra costs of flights around Christmas. The best way to look at fllight prices for Europe is to go to Skyscanner and look at prices month over month and sign up for their alerts.

I just finished reading your informative blog post, and I wanted to take a moment to thank you for sharing such valuable insights with your readers. If your readers are looking for the best international eSIM for Europe, then feel free to visit our website to avail the best deals and offers on travel eSIMS.

This is my first time reading a blog regarding Europe Visit. I am got all the information that i was looking for. Thanks for sharing with us. Regards

Same as all of the airlines, Lufthansa airline also provides the Lufthansa Cancellation Policy within 24 hours that allows the passengers to cancel their Air tickets within the starting 24 hours of the purchase of the ticket without any Lufthansa Cancellation fee.

Planning a trip from US to Paris and then traveling to Spain, Portugal and crossing into Morocco(Casablanca) from Gibraltar by Ferry. This is our first Europe/Africa trip and I’m excited, but not sure about all the details. I can build the basics of the trip but cars from here to there and ferry rides from one continent to the other is worrisome. Any tips would be helpful and much appreciated. We are not going til November/December 2022, hoping Covid restrictions are totally lifted.

It’s so far into the future that who knows? Car hire is globally ridiculously expensive right now, so that’s something to look into. But by then it may have improved. I’ve never taken that ferry crossing, but I love Morocco, much more than that part of Europe, I’m not a massive fan of France so although I’ve actually spent a lot of time there, being from the country right next door, I never put much of it on the website. Brittany is my favourite part but that would be a bit out of the way if you plan to head south from Paris. I’ve crossed the France / Spain border many times by car. that’s no problem. Catalonia, northern Spain is my favourite, particularly for the Dali connection, and the food! Sounds like an adventure and nicely diverse. Have fun!

I need updates Germany reopening

Just a little tip – if you’re traveling in a group, during European summer, I would highly recommend renting a boat with captain, at some destination’s it’s even cheaper than staying at a hotel, airbnb and you’ll get to see places you wouldn’t get to otherwise and it’s just absolutely amazing!

Good morning, im going to europe to travel in the summer. and i need a babysitter in hotel. Did anybody tried this services? Thank you in advance

No John. I’ve never trusted my kids with strangers. Not even family.

What a great and informative article! We’re really into traveling around Europe because of all the great cities and destinations. This article is super helpful for anyone who wants to travel around Europe. We’re hoping to do a lot more traveling around our continent in 2021, so here’s to hoping for a great travel year in 2021!

Hey Europe is a big place, and it is made up of many individual parts. The European Union has about as many countries and languages as there are states in places like the USA and a population greater than the United States by a good margin. Thanks

Very Nice and informative blog will definitely save it for my next visit to Europe. Thanks for sharing.

Travel in Europe through the roadway is a better choice according to my point of view. By the way thanks a lot to the author for sharing such kind information with all of us.

Europe is the most beautiful continent in the world, the history of the continent is unforgettable forever and the destination and the way you give in this article are really amazing.

Traveling across Europe through land-based means can be both rewarding and difficult, owing to the various traffic laws and the Schengen policy, as noted in this article. It is rewarding in how it lets you immerse yourself more fully in the experience of exploring Europe, traffic laws and all. However, one other way to experience travel is via a European river Cruise, something that our cruise company is quite familiar with. However, due to the recent pandemic, it seems that traveling through Europe is ill-advised, at least for the time being.

A very useful and informative post! So many inspiring points to take away from this ?

There are lots of ways to travel Europe but the safest and fastest way of travelling is by air mode as it is costly but it is safest in all as you need to make your trip before so that you can save money in your air booking moreover you can also hire travel agent for all booking as they save money during your trip.

Flying is indeed cheap, but the environmental impact should be a consideration. We travel overland as much as possible in Europe and travel by rail or bus is good there. We don’t recommend our readers use travel agents, you don’t need them and of course they take a cut making prices higher. It’s been 20 years since we used a travel agent.

As per my knowledge and experience, I think that famous places in Europe are known for its particular reason such as festivals, Christmas eve and many others. So it is better to visit those places on special occasion.

Your travels and lifestyle are excellent. If I have money one day, I want to travel. I always follow You have a great website. Thank you.

Very useful tips for traveling a lot of helpful for travelers thanks for sharing this great info.

Good to have this info. more things to explore in Europe!

My husband has a work trip that ends on February 12 in Frankfurt. I will fly in on the 12th and we have 8 days in Europe. We both have been to a few countries but not together. We were thinking about going to Southern Italy, Spain or England. Any advice?

This is a very informative blog with great information.

The European Union has recently undertaken a new travel authorisation regime and aiming at streamlining the travellers visiting the countries in the European Union. Labelled ETIAS or European Travel Information and Authorization System, it is a visa waiver system that will replace the Visa-Free travel available for the 61 countries globally. It is expected that towards the end of 2021, the ETIAS System will be fully implemented.

Once the Brexit fiasco comes to some sort of resolution we should be able to provide more solid information to our readers. We’re still in limbo.

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Adventure Family Travel - Wandering Wagars

Europe Family Travel Blog

Discover the romance, the food, the history, and the beauty of the Old World with our Europe family travel blog

The main square of Evora, Portugal

All the best of Family Travel in Europe Guide

Europe is at the top of many travelers’ dream destinations. This historic continent offers some of the most spectacular history, culture, and gastro experiences in the world. In fact, Christina and I made our first international trip together on a backpacking journey through France, Italy, and Switzerland before we even got married. We’ve since returned to many so that we could relive the experiences with our two boys.

Our family travel in Europe guide will give you everything you need to know to experience Europe with kids. Read through our articles to see how we explored the amazing attractions for families in Europe with our detailed posts.

There is magic in Europe that needs to be experienced and understood. From the artistic leanings of Rome and the deep winters of Scandinavia to the stunning coastlines of Croatia , there is a part of Europe that will capture everyone’s heart.

Experience genuine Lapland winter in Inari Finland with incredible things to do in Inari such as reindeer sleigh rides, northern lights, and Lappish cuisine

The gorgeous streets of Helsinki are an introduction to a country that spans high into the Arctic Circle. Discover Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus, and some of the best wilderness in the world.

Greece Family Travel Blog

The streets of Rome hide artistic wonders around every corner. But the streets of Venice and the hills of Tuscany allow families to explore even deeper into one of the world’s top travel countries.

Young boy in a penguin hat sitting on a rocky beach looking out at glaciers and icebergs

Blessed with otherworldly landscapes, Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. From the architecture of Reykjavik to the magical Diamond Beach, it’s a wonder for families.

How To Get Lost In Venice

With sun-kissed coastlines, historic towns, and warm hospitality, Portugal is the perfect destination for a family getaway. Explore captivating castles, savor delectable pastries, and bask in the Mediterranean sun.

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From the exciting streets of Istanbul to the balloon-filled skies of Cappadocia, Turkiye is a magical destination for family travel.

What Is It Like Traveling In Europe With Kids?

Europe is the most popular destination for families in our Family Travel Support Group on Facebook . In fact, only North America competes with Europe for popularity among international family travel destinations.

Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Greece tend to be among the most popular destinations. However, over the past 20 years, a number of European destinations, such as Croatia, Turkiye , and Malta, have risen up the ranks to compete with countries such as Portugal, Spain, and Austria for popularity.

European travel for families is as easy as it comes. While there are many languages and cultures spread across the continent, there is also an excellent road and rail network that connects nearly all of these countries. This makes travel in Europe relatively affordable and family-friendly.

We’ve been traveling with kids for ten years now, and Europe was the first continent outside of North America that we visited as a family. I’m sure that our tips and guides for the countries we have visited will help you plan your family travels on the European continent.

If you’re new to international family travel , I highly recommend checking out our well-researched trip planning resources . It’s full of proven family travel hacks.

You can explore some of our most popular Europe family travel blog posts below. Or, feel free to head over to our YouTube channel to explore some of our Europe family travel videos.

How To Stay Connected And Get Internet And Phone Service In Europe

Most major cities throughout Europe have excellent cellular service. If you have an older phone, I highly recommend purchasing a sim either at the airport or as one of your first stops on your travels.

If you have a newer eSim capable phone, you can save yourself time by purchasing an eSim ahead of time and having it activated before you arrive.

There are many companies that offer this service. I have used Airalo for years . It has been seamless in over ten countries. They have World, Regional, and Country-Specific eSims available. The price goes down the more specific you get. The regional sims allow for easy country-hopping if you are visiting multiple destinations.

Airalo eSim logo

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Thrifty Nomads

The Ultimate Eastern Europe Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

best europe travel blog

Fewer travelers head east – t hat’s why you should.

H ead East from Germany, and you’ll find that your Euros are less often accepted. English is not so widely spoken. The streets can appear grittier, with concrete apartment blocks often blocking out the sun. Poland has no Leaning Tower of Pisa, Budapest boasts no colosseum, and the rushing Danube may be less associated with romance than the sedate river Seine. But travel with your eyes open, and you’ll find just as much beauty, history, fun and adventure in the East as others do in the well trodden West.

Average wages behind the historic ‘Iron Curtain’ are still drastically low, which is rough on the locals, but can benefit the intrepid traveler: You’ll find that three course restaurant meal in Sofia, Bulgaria can cost you less than a cocktail in a Parisian bar. So pack a phrase book and dress up warm – we’re heading East!

  • 1 Eastern Europe: An overview
  • 2 Eastern Europe highlights: A sample itinerary
  • 3 The Baltics: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
  • 4 Poland: Gdansk, Warsaw & Krakow
  • 5 Slovakia: Zdiar, The Tatra Mountains
  • 6 Hungary: Budapest
  • 7 Bulgaria: Sofia
  • 8 How much does a trip to Eastern Europe cost?
  • 9 How long do you need to explore Eastern Europe?
  • 10 Getting around
  • 11 Getting there
  • 12 Where to stay
  • 13 When to go
  • 14 Food and drink
  • 15 What to do
  • 16 The Thrifty Gist

best europe travel blog

Eastern Europe: An overview

The definition of Eastern Europe can be a bit contentious. I moved to Poland a few years ago and have used this country as a base on and off ever since. While the folks back in England and Australia would tend to see Poland as ‘Eastern Europe,’ here locals often insist on ‘Central Europe,’ and looking at a map, they may have a point. However for the purposes of this article, Poland makes the cut. We’re also going to look at Czechia and Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, former Yugoslavia, the Baltics and Ukraine.

To varying degrees, all the countries described fell under the influence of the Soviet Union after the second world war. While most have now transformed into Western leaning democracies, the brutal memory of communism still rings in the ears. Poland and Hungary are sliding ominously towards the far right, and Ukraine’s recent attempt to lurch Westward politically was met with Russian tanks crossing the border into Crimea. While ‘history’ may feel like a thing of the past in London and Rome, here it is still an unfolding story.

best europe travel blog

Eastern Europe highlights: A sample itinerary

Eastern Europe Itinerary Map

Once you spend a bit of time staring at a map, you’ll realize there’s an awful LOT of Eastern Europe. Not just in the number of countries, but in the size. Ukraine alone could comfortably fit in several Western European nations. Below I’ll sketch a rough itinerary that involves heading due south right from the Baltics into Bulgaria. You can either complete this itinerary fully (as pictured above) – requiring 5-6 weeks – or just do sections of it. 

A few things to note is that while most of these countries are in both the European Union and the Schengen Visa Free Zone, there are exceptions – notably Serbia and Ukraine. So be sure to check your visa requirements before venturing out . Also, the below is one hell of a trip and designed to give you a sense of what is available, rather than a definitive prescription – you should, of course, pick and choose. If you wanna head straight to Prague to sample the famed (and cheap) Czech beer before braving the winter streets of Vilnius, then I can’t say I blame you!

The Baltics: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania

Viru Gate, Lithuania, Estonia

So-named because of their position on the Baltic sea, these three small nations are often overlooked by Western travelers. But they shouldn’t be. Let’s have a look at each in turn:

Highlight : Tallinn. With a population of just 1.3 million, Estonia rapidly reinvented itself after the collapse of communism in 1989, and now is counted among one of the most technologically developed nations in the world. It offers digital citizenship to locals and expats, and is considered a digital nomad hub. If Eastern Europe in your mind is crumbling buildings and long queues for groceries, then start with Estonia to dispel those misconceptions. Get to know it like a local with a Welcome to Tallinn walking tour.

Highlight : Riga. The historic center of Riga is a Unesco world heritage site, and the beautifully preserved/restored town square is a great precursor of what you’re to expect as you explore countries like Poland and Czechia further south. Take in the most popular sights with a scenic canal boat cruise .

Highlight : Vilnius. Like Riga, the historic center of Vilnius is a Unesco World Heritage site, best explored with a local guide . Once unified with Poland, Vilnius boasts a proud literary heritage and a rich Jewish history – it was once referred to as the “Jerusalem of Lithuania.”

Poland: Gdansk, Warsaw & Krakow

Warsaw, Poland

One of the strongest economies to emerge from the collapse of the Eastern Bloc, Poland’s vibrant present mingles with a history that stretches back over 1000 years, through the glory days of the Poland-Lithuania commonwealth right through to the trauma suffered at the hands of the Nazis and Soviets during the 20th century. I came to this country for a week in 2015, and ended up staying on and off for three years!

Spend your final days with the Baltic Sea at Gdansk, formerly the predominantly German free city of Danzig. Walk along the old docks, or admire the city from a historic boat cruise , and remember the Solidarity movement that, led by Lech Walesa, resulted in the overthrow of communism first in Poland and then, arguably, across the rest of Europe. One of Poland’s most picturesque cities, a late night stroll through the old town and by the riverside will be a treasured memory.

The sight of unimaginable horror during the Second World War as the Soviet Tanks waited for the Nazis to eliminate all Polish resistance before sweeping in and planting the Hammer and Sickle flag over the ruined city, Warsaw’s revival is the stuff of legend. Under the shadow of the imposing Palace of Culture, the historic old town has been painstakingly restored. Visit the POLIN Jewish Museum , and experience some of the finest dining Eastern Europe has to offer among the cities many chic restaurants (Hint: Try Cafe Kafka for lunch).

Poland’s biggest tourist draw, and for good reason. The medieval old square is haunting under the moonlight, as rows of horses and cart stand to attention, ready to take the next visitor for a ride. Outside the city you can venture deep under the earth to explore the Salt Mines, and make a painful, but necessary visit to the Auschwitz Museum .

Detour: Lviv, Ukraine

Lviv, Ukraine

Take the night train from Krakow due east to experience something truly off the beaten track. Lviv is a great way to dip your toes into the gargantuan country of Ukraine, and give yourself a thrilling few days. Historically Polish and once known by the Hapsburg name, Lemberg, Lviv boasts one of the most adventurous nightlife scenes you’ll ever encounter. From a bar named Masoch (we’ll let you guess the theme) to multi story clubs, hidden restaurants accessible only with a password, rooftop bars where you sit in broken down cars, and ancient crypts beneath the city , a weekend in Lviv will give you enough stories to make your friends jealous for years.

Slovakia: Zdiar, The Tatra Mountains

Hala Gasienicowa, Tatra Mountains, Poland

Back on the road from Poland, we cross into Slovakia. The nation’s capital, Bratislava , is a rougher, smaller version of Prague (covered below) which rewards a fun weekend. But the Tatra mountains that stretch across the Polish border offer one of Slovakia’s most intoxicating delights.

Pro tip: Hit the Polish town of Zakopane just a few clicks from the border for a taste of the local Oscypek mountain cheese, before taking a minibus to the border, walking into Slovakia, and hopping another quick bus to Zdiar, a ski resort town. Stay in the Ginger Monkey Hostel for cosy diggs and to meet fellow travelers.

Detour: Prague, Czechia

It’s a bit out of the way and means a slight tack westward, but Prague, the dynamic capital of Czechia (formerly the Czech Republic, formerly formerly Czechoslovakia) is worth making the trip. Climb the steep hill to Prague Castle , and see the spires and winding streets of the city at your feet. Jostle with buskers on Charles Bridge before settling into one of the cities many cavernous beer halls for a sip (or several) of the unbelievably refreshing locals brews that flow like water and cost half as much!

Hungary: Budapest

Szechenyi thermal baths

Hungary’s mighty capital is growing in stature as a major Eastern European destination, rivaling Prague and Krakow. Divided into two halves, hilly historical Buda and flat, gritty Pest, the glory of the Austro-Hungarian empire, the horrors of the Arrow Cross Fascist regime and communist oppression, and the contemporary hipster revival of the city can all be felt after just a few hours in town. Climb up to the exquisite Royal Palace, drink the night away in a ruin bar (start with the gigantic Szimpla), take in the stunning architecture from a river cruise , soothe your soul in a thermal bath, and burn your taste buds with spicy paprika filled Goulash. For more tips on activities to do in Budapest, check our other guide here .

From here to Sofia you’ll most likely have to choose one of the below routes, which, like different prongs on a fork, all forge their own path to Bulgaria.

Option #1: Serbia: Belgrade

best europe travel blog

Step out of the European Union and into a scarier, starker version of history in Belgrade. The winding, cobbled streets are beautiful, the old ladies haggle over the price of cucumbers on the street markets, and the clubs rage until dawn. But as with much of Europe, there’s a darker side to history here. You’ll see at the ancient fortifications, in the city’s museums, and in the bullet holes still visible on some older buildings. Take in the top attractions from a sightseeing cruise .

Option #2: Romania: Transfagarasan Highway

Transfagarasan Highway, Romania

Bucharest is a rough and ready capital that will still provide plenty to distract and entertain you. But for me, Romania is a country of rolling green hills, famers on horseback, dark grey clouds and mercifully warm temperatures. Considered one of the best road trips in the world, rent a car and take it carefully over the Transafgarasan Highway (or sit back and relax with a day tour ) for incredible views and, of course, a climb up the steep stairs to Vlad the Impaler’s vertiginous castle (Bran Castle).

Option #3: Croatia: Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Go ahead, be a tourist, give yourself a treat. Famous as the filming location for much of Game of Thrones (with you can visit on dedicated tours ), this seaside city will be sure to rack up the Instagram likes. Don’t want to get caught up in the tourist crowd? Croatia’s warm and picturesque Mediterranean coast can also be experienced from cities like Split, which also boast fresh seafood and, of course, cheap local beer sold in gigantic plastic bottles. Živjeli!

Bulgaria: Sofia

Sofia, Bulgaria

How much does a trip to Eastern Europe cost?

The low cost of living in Eastern Europe constantly amazes me. To take a sample at random, I am writing this article from a cafe in Poznan, Poland. A large local craft beer would cost $2 USD, a latte about the same, and a delicious, high quality hot meal about $6-8. This is typical of Eastern Europe, with countries like Ukraine, Serbia and Bulgaria offering even cheaper rates. The major tourist towns like Prague and Budapest can sting you on accomodation if you don’t book in advance, and always be wary of nightclubs and ‘bars of ill repute’ where scams are known.

Traveling Eastern Europe can realistically be done for as little as $30-50 USD / day , including accomodation, food, beer, transport and attractions.

How long do you need to explore Eastern Europe?

The above itinerary – done properly – would require about 5-6 weeks, but you can of course take as long or as little as you like. Distances can be large and outdated transport infrastructure can mean uncomfortable journeys (hold tight to your wallet on the cheap but dusty overnight train from Belgrade to Budapest. When I did this journey in 2015, I paid just 10 Euro for the ticket including sleeper berth!).

Tatra Mountains, Poland

Getting around

While rail passes are highly recommended for travel in Western Europe, in the East they are less necessary. Train travel – even when booked on the day – is outrageously cheap, with $20 being more than enough for almost any internal journey you’re likely to make. For international journeys, consider overnight buses and trains to save on a night’s accommodation. Book in advance if going between major cities – for example, the overnight train from Warsaw to Budapest can get expensive (100 euro +) if booked at the last minute, but if booked in advance, will be a mere fraction of this.

  • For trains, try Bahn.de
  • For buses, try FlixBus
  • For flights, try WizzAir

Getting there

Most cities listed above can easily be accessed with cheap Ryanair flights from London and across Western Europe. Check Skyscanner and select “Whole Month” to visualize the cheapest dates. If traveling from afar, cities like Berlin and Munich in Germany can make convenient hubs. I’ve also found Prague to be a surprisingly affordable final destination when flying all the way from Australia / New Zealand. If coming from Scandinavia, Gdansk in Poland can sometimes be reached for as little as 15 euro.

Where to stay

Cities like Krakow and Budapest boast a thriving youth hostel culture, ideal if you want to meet other travelers and find drinking buddies for the evening. In Budapest I give my warmest recommendation to  Carpe Noctem – I practically moved in. Elsewhere, Booking.com can offer cheap short term rentals on apartments, while AirBNB is a slightly more expensive, but more comfortable option for doing the same. Although you may not even consider doing such a thing in Paris or London, don’t be afraid to be bold and check TripAdvisor for a nice hotel – I’ve found 4 or 5 star luxury for under $50 a night across Eastern Europe.

best europe travel blog

It’s no secret: Eastern Europe gets cold, with subzero temperatures not unheard of from December through to March. This has its compensations – nothing is more beautiful than a medieval town center blanketed in white snow. Christmas means Christmas markets and hot spiced wine served out of large cauldrons, but it’s also when everyone has gone home with their families. My favorite time to travel is September, when it’s still hot, but the main tourist crowds have wrapped up their summer holidays, leaving the streets clear to explore.

Food and drink

Let’s start with drink! Beer is literally cheaper than bottled water in most countries described above. Look for the local brews, but be careful – in this part of the world, beer packs a punch, and 9% alcohol volume brews are not uncommon. Vodka is available in millions of different flavors – try Zubrowka in Poland, and local fruit spirits such as the potent Sliwowica (plum spirit) are easy to find. In Hungary, try sweet and rich Tokaj wine. Eastern European cuisine tends to be heavy – food to soak up the vodka and prepare you for a long winter. Pierogi (polish dumplings) make for a hearty meal, as does Hungary’s goulash, Prague’s many manifestations of pork, and Lithuania’s rich, dark rye bread. Look out for Milk Bars in Poland for cheap meals shoulder to shoulder with students and vagabonds. Supermarket chains like Lidl and Tesco can provide you cheap groceries basically everywhere you will go.  

Goulas

Every city you visit will have a museum testifying to ancient glories and more recent horrors. Budapest boasts thermal baths, Poland has its salt mines, Slovakia has mountains and Prague – well, Prague has beer and a lot more besides, and pretty much everywhere has a fair share of castles! But the best thing to do is simply to wander, walk the cobbled streets with your eyes open, look at the people, and try and learn a few snatches of the local languages. Walking tours are available in most major cities – see Viator for what’s available in your destination.

The Thrifty Gist

  • Eastern Europe can be challenging, but it boasts a wealth of attractions and an unbelievably low cost of living, making it a dream destination for the adventurous budget traveler
  • Highlights include the Baltic countries, Poland, Lviv, The Tatras Mountains, Prague, Budapest, Romania, Belgrade, Dubrovnik and Sofia
  • Travel by overnight train or bus to save on a night’s accommodation. With the exception of a few major routes, fares are constantly low
  • Germany next door can serve as an easy hub to access Eastern Europe, but cheap flights with companies like WizzAir can get you pretty much anywhere
  • Stay in hostels to meet travelers and for a party vibe, use Booking.com and AirBNB for comfortable private accommodation, and search TripAdvisor for great deals of high quality hotels
  • December is beautiful, but cold, and with a lot of places likely to be closed. September offers warm weather, but not too many tourists
  • Drink beer, brave the local flavored vodka, and eat the hearty rich meals with a focus on meat, potatoes and bread. Yes, you’ll likely come home a few kilos heavier!
  • Eastern Europe is rich in history and has seen the conflicts of several empires. Enjoy the historic old town squares, castles, and museums, but mostly just walk the fascinating streets and listen to the stories of the people you encounter.

I like that you talked about museums in every city where we will see the ancient glories and horrors of their history. I would love to visit museums when my husband and I book a European travel tour for next year. It will be for my birthday to finally push through with my dream trip, and I can definitely enjoy the visit if I can learn about their history as well.

I love how detailed your blog is. Very helpful and informative. 🙂 So, I recently visited Krakow and was blown away by how charming and picturesque it is. The old town is just so charming and there’s a really lively nightlife scene. Overall, I had a really amazing time in Krakow and would definitely recommend it to others.

Thanks Jane—couldn’t agree more, Krakow is amazing!

“Sofia is most notable for its clash of influences, the Cyrillic writing system and Orthodox religion from Russia…” That is WRONG. Bulgaria created the Cyrillic writing system and Russia adopted it… Please fix that 🙂

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If you’re curious about the best places to visit in Europe in May, then you’re in the right place. May is one of the best months to explore Europe. It’s one of my favourite times of year to travel. The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and the crowds haven’t quite descended yet. Whether you’re after a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, there’s something for everyone in Europe in May.

The best places to visit in Europe in May - Malta views

From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the winding canals of Amsterdam , May is the perfect time to soak up all the charm and culture that Europe has to offer. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a foodie, or just looking for a little adventure, you’ll definitely be able to find something for yourself at this time of year.

So sit back, grab a cup of tea (or a glass of wine, I don’t judge), and let’s dive into the best that Europe has to offer in May.

Also discover:

Where’s hot in may in europe.

May might not be the height of summer just yet. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get your tan on in Europe. In fact, there are plenty of places where you can bask in the heat, and start working on that golden glow before the crowds arrive.

If you’re looking for some seriously hot weather, then you might want to consider heading south. Spain, Portugal, and Italy are all great options, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). That means you can spend your days lounging on the beach and sipping sangria. 

Or, if you just want a bit of warmth without feeling like you’re going to melt, the Greek islands, Croatia, and the south of France all offer pleasantly warm temperatures in May, with highs of around 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Is May the best time to visit Europe?

So, is May the best time to visit Europe? Well, in my opinion, yes it is! Or one of the best times at least.

Admittedly, the weather can be a mixed bag. While some destinations may be warm and sunny, others can still be a bit chilly and rainy, particularly in the north of the continent. But, generally, the weather in May is pleasantly mild. If you’re after the heat of the sun, head south. Whereas, in the north, you may even encounter some snow still!

The crowds are thinner than in the peak summer months, and there are plenty of events and festivals to keep you entertained. May is technically shoulder season. This means that prices for flights and accommodation may be slightly cheaper than in the peak of summer.

The streets of Bologna, italy

All in all, if you’re looking for a balance between good weather, smaller crowds, and plenty of things to see and do, May is an excellent time to visit Europe. Just be sure to do your research and pack for (potentially) variable weather!

So, without further ado, here are the best places to visit in Europe in May.

1. Algarve, Portugal

Average Temperature in May: 23°C

If you’re looking for a sunny escape that combines gorgeous beaches, stunning scenery, and plenty of outdoor activities, then the Algarve in May could be just the ticket.

First of all, let’s talk about the weather. In May, the temperatures in the Algarve start to rise, with average highs around 23°C (73°F). It’s not scorching hot yet, but it’s definitely warm enough to enjoy some serious beach time. 

praia da rocha is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May

And speaking of beaches, the Algarve has some of the most beautiful stretches of sand in Europe . You’ll find everything from secluded coves to wide, sandy bays. And since it’s not yet high season, you won’t have to jostle for space with hordes of other tourists.

Plus, if you’re into hiking, cycling, or water sports, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Explore the rugged coastline on foot , visit the stunning Benagil caves , or take a bike ride through the countryside.

Of course, no trip to the Algarve would be complete without trying the delicious local cuisine. May is a great time to sample the fresh seafood that the region is famous for, as well as the local wines and cheeses.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in the Algarve

2. Florence, Italy

Average Temperature in May: 22°C

The beautiful city of Florence is a fantastic choice. It’s one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Italy, and May is a fantastic time to visit.

The temperatures are warm but not too hot, with an average high of around 22°C (73°F). That means you can wander around the city’s gorgeous streets and piazzas without breaking a sweat, and enjoy a delicious gelato without it melting all over your hands.

Florence is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May

Plus, the parks and gardens are bursting with colour. The city’s many outdoor cafes and restaurants are the perfect place to soak up the warm weather and enjoy some people-watching.

And of course, let’s not forget about the art and culture that Florence is famous for. Because the crowds are still relatively light, you won’t have to elbow your way through throngs of tourists to get a good look at the masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery or the Accademia.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that May can be a bit rainy in Florence. So it’s always a good idea to pack an umbrella or rain jacket, just in case. But hey, a little rain never hurt anyone, and it can even add to the romantic atmosphere of the city.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Florence

3. Barcelona, Spain

Average Temperature in May: 20°C

Barcelona is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. This vibrant city is bursting with history, architecture, and some seriously delicious food. May brings festivals, pleasant weather, and the ideal time to explore the glorious Spanish culture .

Barcalona in May

So, what can you expect if you visit Barcelona in May? First and foremost, you can expect some fantastic weather. Temperatures average around 20-25°C (68-77°F). This means you can comfortably explore the city without being weighed down by heavy winter layers. Plus, the Mediterranean breeze makes for a refreshing escape from the heat.

May is also an excellent time to visit Barcelona because the city is buzzing with energy. Many outdoor festivals and events take place during this time. Plus, with the summer crowds not yet in full force, you’ll have a bit more breathing room to explore Gaudi’s masterpieces and many of the city’s other sights and attractions.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Barcelona

4. Athens, Greece

Average Temperature: 24°C

One of the most historically captivating cities in Europe, Athens is a great choice for off-peak exploration. Athens is a city that’s steeped in history, with ancient ruins, museums, and cultural treasures at every turn. The warmer weather will allow you to do things like explore the Acropolis and climb to the top of Lycabettus Hill without getting too hot!

Athens is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May

The weather in May is usually pretty good. Temperatures average around 20-25°C (68-77°F), and you can expect plenty of sunshine and blue skies. In addition, the city is just starting to come alive after the quieter winter months. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes open for business, serving up delicious Greek cuisine and refreshing drinks. 

Nonetheless, like Florence, Athens can be a bit rainy in May. So be sure to pack a waterproof, just in case! Also be sure to pack your walking shoes, your appetite for Greek food, and your sense of wonder. Get ready to fall in love with this ancient and fascinating city.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Athens

5. London, England

Average Temperature: 17°C

Visiting London is pretty much always a good idea. The city is so vast, that you could easily spend a week or more exploring all its nooks and crannies and feasting your eyes on the sights, sounds, and tastes of this city.

Nonetheless, London, being in England, can be a bit unpredictable weather-wise, and May is no exception to this. It’s always a good idea to pack a rain jacket and some layers. You never know when the weather might turn! But don’t worry, even on a rainy day, there’s still plenty to see and do in this amazing city.

London, Picadilly, England

London can actually be a pretty affordable city too with plenty of free museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore . Whether you’re a fan of art, history, or just good old-fashioned sightseeing, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in London. And with the city’s world-class food and drink scene, you’ll never go hungry or thirsty. 

Be sure to check out the markets such as Camden Market and Borough Market for food. You will literally be spoiled for choice!

✅ Discover the best places to stay in London

Average Temperature: 23°C

Malta is a beautiful and historic island located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. One of the best places to visit in Europe in May, it’s a destination that’s sure to delight any traveller. It’s a bit of a hidden gem actually , with other destinations in southern Italy and Greece scooping the majority of the tourist attention. But that just makes Malta even more appealing.

From the clear blue waters of the Blue Lagoon to the charming streets of Rabat, Malta is a feast for the eyes. And with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F) in May, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

Malta, Mosta Dome

In addition, Malta is steeped in history. You’ll find ancient temples, fortresses, and other architectural wonders scattered throughout the island. Whether you’re a fan of history or just love beautiful old buildings, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in Malta.

Then, let’s not forget about the food! Maltese cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and North African influences. There’s plenty of fresh seafood, flavorful stews, and sweet treats to sample.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Malta

7. Rhodes, Greece

Average Temperature: 22°C

If you’re considering a trip to this beautiful island, you won’t be disappointed. Rhodes is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May – a sun-kissed island in the Aegean Sea, steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty.

In May, the weather is perfect for soaking up the sun and exploring the island’s beautiful beaches , with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F). The island is also home to a wealth of historical and cultural treasures This includes the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Rhodes, with its medieval walls and cobbled streets and the beautiful whitewashed village of Lindos .

Lindos, Rhodes

Foodies will love the traditional Greek cuisine on offer in Rhodes, with fresh seafood, meze plates, and grilled meats all featuring heavily on menus. And with plenty of bars and cafes to choose from, you’ll never be short of places to relax and enjoy a cold drink or two.

Another great thing about Rhodes is its location. From here, you can easily explore other nearby islands, like Symi , or take a day trip to the nearby Turkish coast .

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Rhodes

8. Dorset, England

Average Temperature: 16°C

This charming and picturesque county located on the south coast of England is a quintessential English holiday destination . You’ve got to love a county that’s home to stunning coastal scenery, rolling hills, and charming towns and villages .

One of the biggest draws of Dorset is its stunning coastline. The world-famous Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans 185 million years of geological history and it’s home to the stunning Durdle Door. But with over 100 miles of coastline, you’ll find plenty of sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves to explore. 

Durdle Door is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May

In May, temperatures average around 15-18°C (59-64°F), it’s the perfect time to go for a coastal walk . Besides Durdle Door, other must-see sights include the ruins of Corfe Castle, the atmospheric ruins of Cerne Abbas Abbey, and the charming seaside town of Weymouth . The county is also home to some fantastic walking and hiking trails. This includes the South West Coast Path, which passes through some of the region’s most spectacular scenery.

Culture vultures will love exploring Dorset’s historic towns and villages, with their pretty streets, traditional pubs, and historic landmarks. And with plenty of local produce on offer, including delicious seafood and award-winning cheese, foodies will be in heaven.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the weather in Dorset can be a little unpredictable. Pack layers and be prepared for a shower or two.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Dorset

9. Stavanger, Norway

Average Temperature: 14°C

Are you looking for a destination that combines stunning natural beauty with a vibrant cultural scene? Then this city on the southwest coast of Norway might just be the perfect choice for you.

One of the main attractions of Stavanger is its proximity to some of Norway’s most spectacular natural landscapes. This includes the Lysefjord and the famous Pulpit Rock . Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, or just admiring the views, there are plenty of ways to get out and explore the great outdoors here.

Stavanger Norway

But Stavanger isn’t just about nature. The city itself is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of history and museums to explore. If you’re interested in history, be sure to check out Stavanger’s historic Old Town, with its charming wooden buildings and winding streets. And for something a little more modern, the striking Norwegian Petroleum Museum is well worth a visit.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Stavanger

10. Istanbul, Turkey

Average Temperature: 21°C

Perched on the bridge between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. It’s a vibrant and bustling city, where the East meets the West and ancient history blends with modern culture. From the majestic Blue Mosque and the stunning Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar and the buzzing street food scene, there’s something here for everyone.

Galata, Turkey - is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May

In May, temperatures average around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and the city is bursting with life and colour. Take a stroll along the Bosphorus, and soak up the sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis.

One of the highlights of any visit to Istanbul is, of course, the food. From sizzling kebabs to fresh seafood, the city’s culinary scene is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Be sure to try some of the local delicacies, like Mantı (Turkish ravioli) or a traditional Turkish Meze.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Istanbul

11. Bratislava, Slovakia

Average Temperature: 19°C

This is a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered. A charming city, located on the banks of the Danube River, Bratislava offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy.

Explore the stunning Old Town, with winding cobbled streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. Stroll through the city centre and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There are plenty of opportunities to take in the local architecture and soak up the atmosphere such as the Bratislava castle and Michael’s Gate

Bratislava Castle Slovakia

Bratislava is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. You’ll find warm weather and plenty of sunshine. Take a leisurely stroll along the Danube promenade, enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s parks, or take a day trip to the nearby Small Carpathian Mountains for some stunning views and hiking opportunities. 

Plus, Bratislava can be a lot quieter than some other European cities , which is definitely a plus. With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and unique charm, Bratislava is a great choice for those looking to get off the beaten path and experience something new.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bratislava

12. Budapest, Hungary

Average Temperature: 20°C

Budapest in May is an absolute delight! Like Bratislava, this vibrant city is located on the banks of the Danube River and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm.

One of the highlights of Budapest is its stunning architecture. Visit the Fisherman’s Bastian, see the Parliament Building, and relax in a thermal bath .

Budapest, Fisherman's Bastian

May is a great time to visit Budapest, with mild weather and plenty of sunshine. Enjoy a picnic in one of its many parks, then, take a cruise down the Danube at sunset . You’ll soon see why Budapest is often referred to as the “Paris of the East.”

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Budapest

13. Sintra, Portugal

Average Temperature: 18°C

This fairy-tale destination will leave you feeling enchanted! This town is located just a short train ride from Lisbon (it makes a great day trip ). Nestled in the lush green hills it’s home to some of the most stunning palaces, castles, and gardens in Portugal. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historic architecture, and a touch of magic.

Pena Palace is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May

Sintra’s romantic architecture , pastel-coloured palaces, and castles look like they’ve been plucked straight from a storybook. Take a stroll through the town’s historic centre and you’ll feel like you’re wandering through a wonderland.

Sintra is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. You can explore the stunning Pena Palace, hike through the lush green hills of the Sintra Mountains, or visit the Moorish Castle for some breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Sintra

14. Istria, Croatia

Istria is a true gem of the Adriatic coast. This beautiful peninsula , located in the northwest of Croatia, offers visitors a perfect mix of charming old towns, pristine beaches, and fascinating history.

Pula Arena, Istria

Explore beautiful coastal towns such as Rovinj and Pula , which offer plenty of opportunities to see the region’s rich history and culture. You can wander through the winding streets, admire Venetian architecture, or visit ancient Roman ruins such as the Pula Arena.

Also, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, enjoy a hike through the lush green hills, or simply relax on one of the many picturesque beaches. You could even take a day trip to Venice !

But Istria isn’t just about history and nature. The region is also known for its exceptional cuisine . There are plenty of local specialities such as truffles, olive oil, and seafood. Make sure to try the famous Istrian wines and visit one of the many local wineries for a tasting.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Istria

15. Bologna, Italy

Ah, Bologna – where do I even begin? This charming city, located in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, is a food lover’s paradise. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.

One of the highlights of Bologna is its picturesque historic centre. It’s home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved buildings in Europe. From the iconic Leaning Towers to the stunning Piazza Maggiore , every corner of Bologna is steeped in history and architectural beauty.

Bologna Italy is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May

Bologna is definitely one of the best places to visit in May in Europe, with sunny weather and pleasant temperatures perfect for strolling through the city’s bustling streets. Don’t miss the chance to visit the famous University of Bologna, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, or take a walk through the stunning porticos.

But let’s be real – one of the main reasons to visit Bologna is the food. This city is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, including classic dishes such as lasagna, tagliatelle al ragù, and mortadella. Make sure to visit the local markets and sample some of the region’s famous cured meats, cheeses, and wines.

✅ Discover the best places to stay in Bologna

Well, there you have it – some of the best places to visit in Europe in May! Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, delve into history and culture, or simply indulge in some amazing food and drink, there’s something for everyone on this list.

From the beaches of the Algarve to the historic streets of Bologna, each of these destinations has its own unique charm and appeal. So why not pack your bags, hop on a plane, and start exploring all that Europe has to offer?

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

  • SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
  • BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
  • SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
  • DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
  • OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
  • GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
  • AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

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Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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

best places to visit in Europe

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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

best europe travel blog

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

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

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

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

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

  • Venice tours

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

2 – Paris, France

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

See also: Things to do in Paris , Best day trips from Paris , Best tourist attractions in Paris , Louvre Museum tickets price , Eiffel Tower tickets price , Best Paris night tours , Best free walking tours , Hop on hop off Paris bus tours , Cheap Disneyland Paris tickets , Best Paris Seine River cruises , Catacombs Paris tickets price , Musée d’Orsay Tickets price , Lido Paris tickets price , PSG Experience stadium tour tickets

3 – Lisbon, Portugal

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

See also: Things to do in Lisbon , Best tourist attractions in Lisbon , dBest  day trips from Lisbon , Pena Palace Sintra tickets

4 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

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

See also: Things to do in Amsterdam , Best day trips from Amsterdam , Best tourist attractions in Amsterdam , Best museums in Amsterdam , Van Gogh Museum last minute tickets , Best Amsterdam canal cruises , Rijksmuseum tickets price

5 – Rome, Italy

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.

See also: Things to do in Rome , Best day trips from Rome , Best Rome tours , Catacombs Rome tickets price , Hop on hop off Rome bus tours , Hadrian’s Villa tours from Rome , Villa d’Este tours from Rome , Rome night tours , Borghese Gallery last minute tickets , Borghese Gallery tickets price , Colosseum last minute tickets , Colosseum tickets price , Colosseum Underground tickets

6 – Tromsø, Norway

Tromso, 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

Saint Peter's basilica, 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.

See also: Vatican Museum tickets , Vatican Museum early access tickets , Vatican Museum last minute tickets , Best Vatican tours , Papal audience tickets , Sistine Chapel early access tickets , St Peter’s Basilica skip the line tickets

8 – Dubrovnik, Croatia

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

Tenerife, 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, 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

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

See also: Things to do in Barcelona , Best tourist attractions in Barcelona , Best day trips from Barcelona , Sagrada Familia tickets price , Best Barcelona free walking tours , Best places to visit in Spain

12 – Munich, Germany

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

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

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

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

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, 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

See also: Things to do in Florence , Best day trips from Florence , Florence Duomo tickets price , Florence Duomo tours , Palazzo Vecchio tickets price , Pitti Palace tickets price , Accademia Gallery tickets price , Uffizzi Gallery tickets price , Best museums in Florence

18 – Santa Claus Village, Finland

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

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 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

See also: Things to do in Milan , Best day trips from Milan , Duomo Milan skip the line tickets , Santa Maria Delle Grazie tickets price , Last Supper Milan last minute tickets

20 – Meteora, Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, 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

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

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

Chenonceau Castle, Loire Valley, 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

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

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

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

Faeroe 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

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

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

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

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

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

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, 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

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

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

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

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, 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

Alhambra, 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

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

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

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

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Palermo, Sicily, 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, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alps Mountains

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

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

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

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

Budapest, Hungria

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

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

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

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

Valletta, Malta

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

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

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

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

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

Champagne region, 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

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

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

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

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

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!

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The 6 Best Hotels in Dubrovnik

A stunning view over the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia with the Adriatic Sea in the distance

Dubrovnik is a gorgeous historic city. Perched on the rugged coast of Croatia, it explodes to life every summer as cruisers, backpackers, and beachgoers flock to the city. With medieval charm, a UNESCO Old Town, and the glimmering azure backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, it’s no surprise that this is the most popular city in Croatia .

While the city struggles with overtourism, it’s easy to escape the crowds and soak up the local pace of life if you know where to go (and where to stay).

I’ve visited Dubrovnik a bunch over the years. These days, there are a lot more hotels than when I first arrived. Some are great, some are not so great. To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best hotels in Dubrovnik:

1. Art Hotel

A large and airy hotel room at the Art Hotel in Dubrovnik, Croatia

The staff is amazing and the complimentary continental breakfast each morning is delicious, with a varied spread of local homemade food (like burek , a type of pastry) that changes daily. The main draw here is the location though. You can’t beat it if you want something near the beach!

2. Hotel Adria

A huge, comfy bed in a big hotel room at Hotel Adria in Dubrovnik, Croatia

There’s also a varied (and included) buffet breakfast each morning with lots of options (including fresh fruit, pastries, juice, cereals). If you have a car, use of the hotel’s parking garage is complimentary.

3. Royal Palm Hotel

A spacious hotel room overlooking the sea at the Royal Palm Hotel in Dubrovnik, Croatia

The complimentary breakfast buffet offers lots of variety, including an egg station, mimosas, and fresh pastries. There’s a relaxing spa here as well, in addition to a pool and gym. The beach is nearby too, but I especially like that the on-site terrace restaurant offers sweeping panoramic views of the Adriatic.

4. Hotel Lero

A cozy and relaxing room with lots of natural light in the Hotel Lero in Dubrovnik, Croatia

The bathrooms are simple but the water pressure in the showers is great, plush bathrobes are included, and some rooms have both a bathtub and a shower. There are several fantastic restaurants here too, including a poolside bar, an award-winning Bosnian restaurant, and a Mediterranean restaurant offering a complimentary daily breakfast buffet with plenty of options for all diets.

5. Hotel More

A large hotel room with a big balcony overlooking the Adriatic at Hotel More in Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rooms here are massive, with super comfy beds, lots of natural light, and calming tones. They are furnished simply but elegantly, with wooden desks and a separate seating area with a sofa or easy chairs. In-room amenities include a desk, flatscreen TV, coffee/tea maker, minibar, and safe. The bathrooms are also spacious and include slippers, cozy bathrobes, luxe toiletries, and great water pressure. A complimentary breakfast buffet is available each morning, with fresh fruit, cereal, eggs, and pastries.

If you want to splash out on luxury, this is the hotel for you.

6. St. Joseph’s Hotel

A large hotel room at St. Joseph's Hotel with exposed brick and pastel colors in Dubrovnik, Croatia

The bathrooms feature beautiful tile or marble, rain showers (some also have massive bathtubs), slippers, and plush bathrobes. I especially like that the complimentary a la carte breakfast is cooked by a chef and served in your room each morning. It’s a nice personal touch that really elevates the whole experience here.

A booming tourist destination, Dubrovnik is absolutely stunning. Sure, you’ll likely want to skip a visit in the middle of summer, but as long as you pick one of the hotels from the list above you’ll have an amazing stay in the Peal of the Adriatic.

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Croatia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • SafetyWing (best for everyone)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Croatia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Croatia  for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

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All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Image may contain City Urban Person and Downtown

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

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Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

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In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

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Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

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Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

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The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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I've visited over 50 European cities. Here are the 5 I can't wait to return to.

  • After visiting over 50  European cities , I'm often asked which places have been my favorites.
  • However, I've found that each city I've been to has offered something different.
  • A few of my favorite places to visit include  Barcelona  and Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Insider Today

It's looking like 2024 is a good time to travel to Europe , especially if you want to avoid extra paperwork and fees.

European Union (EU) authorities have been working on a system that makes it mandatory for many travelers, including Americans, to obtain a visa-like document in order to visit most countries in the EU.

Although the requirement was meant to be put in place this year, it's since been delayed to 2025 — so you may want to book that European trip sooner rather than later.

As someone who's visited over 50 European cities, I can help you narrow down your options. Here are the five cities in Europe I absolutely loved and can't wait to return to.

Barcelona is my favorite city in the world.

best europe travel blog

Barcelona is, dare I say, my favorite city in the world. Its unique architecture is reason enough to visit, but Spain also offers some of the best cuisine around.

Barcelona truly offers something for everyone, from parks and beaches to nightclubs and cafés.

When I visited Bunkers del Carmel, a popular lookout spot that provides stunning views of Barcelona, I felt a true sense of community. Here, I found people simply drinking wine and enjoying the views together.

Porto, Portugal, is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

best europe travel blog

I've found that Porto is often overlooked for Portugal's more popular city, Lisbon. When I visited Porto, however, I spent my days sitting by the waterfront, drinking port wine, and eating amazing Portuguese food.

Seeing the sunset here is a right of passage — I recommend catching one at Jardim do Morro, a garden overlooking the city.

Edinburgh, Scotland, is easy to explore on foot.

best europe travel blog

When I visited Edinburgh, I felt like I was on the set of a Harry Potter film . The medieval architecture is unlike anything I've seen before, and it's easy to explore the city on foot.

The food scene did not disappoint, and I learned that Scottish cuisine is much more than just haggis. I recommend checking out restaurants like Oink and The Bon Vivant.

Ljubljana, Slovenia, is full of natural beauty.

best europe travel blog

Ljubljana, Slovenia, is one of the most aesthetically-pleasing cities I've visited. Its natural beauty is unmatched, and it's very easy to get around from the city center.

In my opinion, a trip to Ljubljana isn't complete without a visit to Lake Bled, where travelers can enjoy turquoise waters and gorgeous mountains.

The city also has an award-winning food scene , with multiple Michelin stars to show for it.

Visiting Colmar, France, makes me feel like I'm in a Disney movie.

best europe travel blog

Colmar, located in the Alsace region of France, feels like a Disney movie come to life. I've visited the famous Christmas markets in the region, but the area has so much to offer.

Aside from Christmas festivities, Alsace is also known for its wine. In my opinion, the Alsace wine route is an underrated travel destination, as it's often outshined by more popular areas like Paris and the South of France.

Whether it's your first or fifth time in France, I recommend adding Colmar to your list of cities to visit.

best europe travel blog

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RB ITALIA Blog

RB ITALIA Blog

14 Hidden Spots You Should Visit On Your Trip To Europe

Posted: April 22, 2024 | Last updated: April 22, 2024

<p>Nestled in the foothills of the Alps and shared by Italy and Switzerland, Lake Maggiore is a scenic gem with picturesque villages along its shore. Tourists will love the resort town of Stresa and can explore Isola Bella's lush gardens without worrying about the hustle and bustle.</p>

Lake Maggiore, Italy

Nestled in the foothills of the Alps and shared by Italy and Switzerland, Lake Maggiore is a scenic gem with picturesque villages along its shore. Tourists will love the resort town of Stresa and can explore Isola Bella's lush gardens without worrying about the hustle and bustle.

<p>Ardennes traverses Belgium and Luxembourg and even extends into France and Germany. Its rolling hills, dense trees, and the Meuse River provide ample hiking, cycling, and kayaking opportunities, and it is a must-do for nature lovers.</p>

The Ardennes, Belgium

Ardennes traverses Belgium and Luxembourg and even extends into France and Germany. Its rolling hills, dense trees, and the Meuse River provide ample hiking, cycling, and kayaking opportunities, and it is a must-do for nature lovers.

<p>Located atop a steep cliff, Cuenca is a medieval town with winding streets leading to stunning Spanish architectural masterpieces. Cuenca's most sought-after attractions include the gravity-defying hanging houses, but tourists will also love the Old Town.</p>

Cuenca, Spain

Located atop a steep cliff, Cuenca is a medieval town with winding streets leading to stunning Spanish architectural masterpieces. Cuenca's most sought-after attractions include the gravity-defying hanging houses, but tourists will also love the Old Town.

<p>Germany's only rock park, the Saxon Switzerland National Park, is as jaw-dropping as it gets. The Elbe Sandstone Mountains provide the perfect backdrop; tourists can spot wildlife like oryx, lynxes, and deer.</p>

Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany

Germany's only rock park, the Saxon Switzerland National Park, is as jaw-dropping as it gets. The Elbe Sandstone Mountains provide the perfect backdrop; tourists can spot wildlife like oryx, lynxes, and deer.

<p>Located along Slovenia's Adriatic coast, Piran is a resort city best known for its Gothic architecture and the Port of Piran. Don't forget to visit Tartini Square, a historical landmark, and the Duomo di San Giorgio Cathedral.</p>

Piran, Slovenia

Located along Slovenia's Adriatic coast, Piran is a resort city best known for its Gothic architecture and the Port of Piran. Don't forget to visit Tartini Square, a historical landmark, and the Duomo di San Giorgio Cathedral.

<p>A well-preserved medieval town in eastern France, Perouges offers narrow cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses. The commune overlooks the river Ain, giving travelers jaw-dropping views all around.</p>

Pérouges, France

A well-preserved medieval town in eastern France, Perouges offers narrow cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses. The commune overlooks the river Ain, giving travelers jaw-dropping views all around.

<p>Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a delightful coastal town with canals and bright-colored buildings. Here, tourists can ride beautiful, vibrant boats, cross traditional bridges, and enjoy a laid-back vibe.</p>

Aveiro, Portugal

Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a delightful coastal town with canals and bright-colored buildings. Here, tourists can ride beautiful, vibrant boats, cross traditional bridges, and enjoy a laid-back vibe.

<p>The oldest mining town in Slovakia, Banska Stiavnica, is a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with lush greenery, cobblestone streets, and ancient European architecture. It even boasts a botanical garden and a star-studded ski resort.</p>

Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia

The oldest mining town in Slovakia, Banska Stiavnica, is a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with lush greenery, cobblestone streets, and ancient European architecture. It even boasts a botanical garden and a star-studded ski resort.

<p>Are you in the mood for a serene vacation away from the crowds and close to nature? Visit the Orkney Islands, where sandstone cliffs, breathtaking coasts, and Neolithic sites make for a delightful trip. The islands are even famous for their seal colonies, which are a must-visit for animal lovers.</p>

Orkney Islands, Scotland

Are you in the mood for a serene vacation away from the crowds and close to nature? Visit the Orkney Islands, where sandstone cliffs, breathtaking coasts, and Neolithic sites make for a delightful trip. The islands are even famous for their seal colonies, which are a must-visit for animal lovers.

<p>With a history spanning several centuries, Cesky Krumlov lived through the Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic art eras, as proven by its stunning castles and cathedrals. The city's Old Town offers panoramic views of the Vltava River, making it a picturesque site away from the crowds.</p>

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

With a history spanning several centuries, Cesky Krumlov lived through the Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic art eras, as proven by its stunning castles and cathedrals. The city's Old Town offers panoramic views of the Vltava River, making it a picturesque site away from the crowds.

<p>A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trogir lies on the Adriatic coast and displays the finest works of Venetian architecture. Tourists can stroll along the Promenade, explore the city museum, or enjoy a jet ski safari.</p>

Trogir, Croatia

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trogir lies on the Adriatic coast and displays the finest works of Venetian architecture. Tourists can stroll along the Promenade, explore the city museum, or enjoy a jet ski safari.

<p>Boasting the iconic Eger Castle and baroque churches, Eger is an ideal destination for art lovers. The city's ‘Valley of the Beautiful Women' charming vineyards make it the perfect getaway for wine connoisseurs.</p>

Eger, Hungary

Boasting the iconic Eger Castle and baroque churches, Eger is an ideal destination for art lovers. The city's ‘Valley of the Beautiful Women' charming vineyards make it the perfect getaway for wine connoisseurs.

<p>With its old stone buildings and ancient city walls, Kotor literally feels like somebody has stepped back in time. After a short hike, the view of the Bay of Kotor from St. John’s Fortress is one of the most beautiful sights in Europe. This medieval town offers walking tours along its narrow streets, where you can learn about the local culture and shop for souvenirs. </p>

Kotor, Montenegro

With its old stone buildings and ancient city walls, Kotor literally feels like somebody has stepped back in time. After a short hike, the view of the Bay of Kotor from St. John’s Fortress is one of the most beautiful sights in Europe. This medieval town offers walking tours along its narrow streets, where you can learn about the local culture and shop for souvenirs.

<p>Imagine exploring an outdoor museum, where you’ll witness colorful houses and grand squares at every turn-this is what Sibiu, Romania, offers its tourists. Though the city is not as famous as other main attractions of Europe, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to explore the medieval buildings without the overwhelming crowds. </p>

Sibiu, Romania

Imagine exploring an outdoor museum, where you’ll witness colorful houses and grand squares at every turn-this is what Sibiu, Romania, offers its tourists. Though the city is not as famous as other main attractions of Europe, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to explore the medieval buildings without the overwhelming crowds.

<p><a href="https://www.spatuladesserts.com/tourist-traps-and-red-flags-to-avoid-when-traveling-to-europe/">Tourist traps in Europe you should be aware of</a>. Here are the top tourist scams to avoid when visiting some parts of Europe.</p> <p>This article was first published at <a href="https://rbitaliablog.com/">Rbitaliablog</a>.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://rbitaliablog.com/hidden-gems-in-europe-away-from-the-crowds/">14 Hidden Spots You Should Visit On Your Trip To Europe</a> appeared first on <a href="https://rbitaliablog.com">RB Italia Blog</a>.</p>

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Tourist traps in Europe you should be aware of . Here are the top tourist scams to avoid when visiting some parts of Europe.

This article was first published at  Rbitaliablog .

The post 14 Hidden Spots You Should Visit On Your Trip To Europe appeared first on RB Italia Blog .

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The Telegraph Crowns Czechia Third Best in Europe For Rail Travel

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Rail travelers across the Czech Republic can celebrate The Telegraph’s April 2024 ranking and rating for Europe’s best countries for train travel. Czechia secured the third-best position across Europe.

According to The Telegraph survey, 15 largest European countries open to travelers at the time of the research were involved. Some factors considered were the rail network size of a country and the punctuality of train services. Also, the available sleeper journeys, standards of stations, affordability, and the scenic experience of train travel were more comparison factors.

Moreover, every country was rated against a 60-point score. The Czech Republic scored 40 points. The Telegraph cited Czechia’s performance to its extensive railway network, scenic journeys, and great punctuality,

“With 5,863 miles of track and a surface area of around 30,450 square miles, the Czech Republic has the second-highest railway density in the world (after Switzerland). More than a third is electrified. Punctuality is much better than in Germany and the fact that Czechs are heavy users of their network suggests they trust and rely on it,” wrote The Telegraph.

Additionally, The Telegraph report applauded Czechia’s top-notch train stations and dining cars. The beauty of the train stations across the country including Prague Main Station, was also praised.

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The Telegraph commented: “Prague’s Main Train Station looks like a cathedral inside, and the stations at Brno and Pilsen are equally impressive. The Czech Republic has lots of lovely scenic routes and has started to introduce panoramic windows on some lines. The dining cars on state-operated EuroCity trains have been praised by some travelers as Europe’s best restaurants on wheels, with regional food prepared fresh to order and bespoke-brewed craft beer.” Quoted by Expats.cz

Austria topped the Telegraph ranking with 43 points. The country stood out for punctuality, scenic quality of travel, and its rail network size. France was second, cited for its beautiful railway stations.

The Telegraph report comes at a time when the Czech Republic and Prague are seeking transformation in rail travel. From infrastructure expansions to increased available train services. One of the recent development is the March 2024 launch of the European Sleeper direct connection from Prague to Brussels . This connection links Prague to four European capitals, Amsterdam, Berlin, Dresden, and Brussels. Besides, the easy access to Prague’s railway network within the city center is a draw for tourists and locals alike as per other reports.

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Marbella: Europe’s Top Destination for 2024

Marbella shines as Europe's premier destination for 2024, recognized for its unparalleled commitment to quality and excellence in tourism. Discover why Marbella stands out in the global travel scene.

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Mercadillo de san pedro de alcántara – weekly street markt, cao$ at naô pool club – your oasis of hip hop vibes, brazilian carnival night – live show at nomad marbella, experience the flamenco fever: friday nights at restaurante la taberna fantástica, ahmar – celebration at occo marbella, recent blogs, marbella’s recognition of excellence.

Marbella has recently been acclaimed as the top European destination to visit in 2024. This prestigious award was presented by Maximilien Lejeune, CEO of European Best Destination (EBD), to Marbella's Mayor, Ángeles Muñoz. The ceremony highlighted Marbella's commitment to quality and excellence in tourism, underscoring its significant promotional impact—over 12 million euros—and a global audience reach of 420 million travellers.

Mayor Muñoz emphasized the importance of this recognition for Marbella's brand and its high-quality tourism concept. This accolade not only enhances the city's reputation but also validates the efforts of all those involved in the tourism sector. The Mayor thanked the professionals and local community for their commitment and dedication, which she noted were crucial in achieving this success.

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A Testament to Community and Collaboration

During her speech, Mayor Muñoz extended her gratitude, particularly to the private sector for their involvement and encouraged local businesses to display this collective pride through shop windows and advertisements. This award, she pointed out, is especially significant as it is endorsed by the European Union and reflects the shared opinions of travellers, tourism professionals, and the media.

Record-Breaking Participation and Global Recognition

The 2024 edition of the EBD award saw record-breaking participation with over a million votes from 172 countries, placing Marbella at the pinnacle of this international contest. Notably, nearly 200,000 people voted for Marbella, outpacing famous cities like Lisbon, Budapest, Barcelona, Rome, Paris, and Milan. This marks a milestone as Marbella becomes the first Spanish city to top this prestigious list.

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Marbella's Global Appeal

The distinction has enhanced Marbella's visibility on international platforms, including travel sites and renowned publications like Forbes USA, Condé Nast, and Paris Match. These media outlets have been pivotal in broadcasting Marbella’s excellence to a worldwide audience. Mayor Muñoz remarked, "We could not have a better showcase."

A Year of Historic Achievements

2023 was a landmark year for Marbella, registering historic figures and breaking the pattern of seasonal tourism. The city has attracted affluent visitors who have fallen in love with its offerings. The mayor noted that this award adds to the “excellent indicators” seen over the past year, further consolidating Marbella's status as a year-round luxury travel destination.

Marbella Crowned the Best European Destination in 2024: A Forbes.com Highlight

Marbella Crowned the Best European Destination in 2024: A Forbes.com Highlight

Marbella is celebrated by Forbes as 2024's top European destination, outshining Monaco with its luxury, culture, and sunny allure. A milestone for MarbsLifestyle.com, highlighting our city's exceptional quality of life and commitment to sustainable tourism. A proud moment for all of Marbella.

A Destination of Records

Maximilien Lejeune highlighted that the EBD award represents the voice of millions of travellers. He proudly stated that Marbella holds the record for the most votes ever received by a city in this competition. This distinction underscores Marbella's appeal as the prime choice for those seeking the finest in gastronomy, wellness, sports, sun, beaches, and entertainment. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that Marbella is the first city led by a female mayor to win this prestigious award.

Marbella’s Comprehensive Tourist Offer

Marbella offers a broad spectrum of attractions that cater to diverse tastes. From its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife to its rich cultural heritage and luxurious resorts, Marbella presents a complete package for any traveller. The city's commitment to maintaining high standards in all aspects of tourism ensures that visitors not only enjoy their stay but also experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community.

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Step into the enchanting lanes of Marbella's Old Town with our hand-picked itinerary. From dawn till dusk, immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, tantalizing tastes, and spirited nightlife. Let Marbslifestyle.com be your guide to the soul of Marbella.

The Future of Tourism in Marbella

Looking forward, Marbella is poised to build on this success and continue enhancing its tourism infrastructure. The city plans to invest in sustainable tourism practices and further develop its luxury tourism sector. These initiatives aim to attract even more visitors and establish Marbella as a leading global destination.

Marbella's recognition as the best European destination for 2024 is a testament to the city's outstanding quality and the collective efforts of its citizens and stakeholders in the tourism industry. This award not only celebrates the city's current achievements but also sets the stage for future growth and success in the tourism sector. Marbella continues to shine as a beacon of excellence and hospitality, inviting everyone to experience its unique charm and allure. With its vibrant community and rich offerings, Marbella is truly a destination that feels like home to all who visit.

We, from Marbslifestyle.com, would like to extend our congratulations to the city and everyone involved in making this award a reality. Our love for this city is unwavering, and we have complete confidence that it will see continued success in the future. Cheers to Marbella!

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  14. Ultimate 2 Weeks in Europe: 6 itineraries (with map)

    However, with 2 weeks in Europe, around the Baltics, you can also head to Parnu and Tartu - both are located in the south of Estonia. Go to Haeska, Kabili, and Matsalu for birdwatching and wildlife experiences. Here are some of the sights to see in Estonia: Tallinn's Old Town. Lennusadam Seaplane Harbor in Tallinn.

  15. Europe Travel Blog

    We can't write a single blog post and call it "Europe Travel Blog" so you'll find dozens of individual blog posts below, detailing individual destinations and experiences in Europe. It was best to have this page as a general guide for travel in Europe, with more detailed posts leading from it and to it. We hope you can find what you ...

  16. The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    Check out my tips for The Best Time to Travel to France. Cold season: Daytime temperatures between November and February rarely get above 10 degrees Celsius, but seeing Paris in the snow can add a whole new dimension to this lovely city. Warm season: July and August are usually the hottest months in Paris.

  17. Europe Family Travel Blog

    Europe is the most popular destination for families in our Family Travel Support Group on Facebook. In fact, only North America competes with Europe for popularity among international family travel destinations. Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Greece tend to be among the most popular destinations.

  18. The Ultimate Eastern Europe Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Eastern Europe can be challenging, but it boasts a wealth of attractions and an unbelievably low cost of living, making it a dream destination for the adventurous budget traveler. Highlights include the Baltic countries, Poland, Lviv, The Tatras Mountains, Prague, Budapest, Romania, Belgrade, Dubrovnik and Sofia.

  19. The 15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in May

    3. Barcelona, Spain. Average Temperature in May: 20°C. Barcelona is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. This vibrant city is bursting with history, architecture, and some seriously delicious food. May brings festivals, pleasant weather, and the ideal time to explore the glorious Spanish culture.

  20. 100 Best Places to Visit in Europe

    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.

  21. The 6 Best Hotels in Dubrovnik

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  22. What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

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  23. 13 Best Travel Blogs in 2023: Top Travel Bloggers to Follow

    4. The Planet D. For adventure seekers, The Planet D is one of the best travel blogs out there. Dave and Deb are an award-winning travel duo based in Canada and have visited more than 110 countries. They write comprehensive travel guides and itineraries, which I've used to plan my own travels around the world.

  24. Best European Cities to Visit, According to Woman Who Traveled to 50

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  25. 14 Hidden Spots You Should Visit On Your Trip To Europe

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  27. 5 Adventures In Europe Without The Crowds

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  28. The Telegraph Crowns Czechia Third Best in Europe For Rail Travel

    April 23, 2024. Rail travelers across the Czech Republic can celebrate The Telegraph's April 2024 ranking and rating for Europe's best countries for train travel. Czechia secured the third-best position across Europe. According to The Telegraph survey, 15 largest European countries open to travelers at the time of the research were involved.

  29. Marbella: Europe's Top Destination for 2024

    Explore Marbella, crowned as Europe's top travel destination for 2024. Uncover the city's commitment to excellence, historic achievements, and what makes it a favourite among global travellers.