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The 18 Most Beautiful Places in Europe to Add to Your Bucket List

There's beauty to be found on every continent, but Europe, with its 51 independent countries made up of vastly different landscapes, languages, and time zones, is spoiled with variety. We narrowed it down to 18 spectacular places that will leave you speechless.

Senior Editor, Jetsetter | @lindseytravels | lindseytravels.com

See recent posts by Lindsey Olander

Amalfi Coast, Italy

There are a few destinations in the world that make it onto every traveler’s bucket list, and the Amalfi Coast is one of them. From legendary Positano to hilltop Ravello, the glamour of Italy’s most famous peninsula—with its pastel-colored towns cascading down to the Mediterranean, olive groves, and endless limoncello—has not waned for centuries.

RELATED: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Italy’s Amalfi Coast

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Provence, France

Lavender fields that stretch over the horizon are an iconic image of Provence , but there’s far more beauty here than just its sweet-smelling flowers—including Michelin-starred cuisine, art studios used by names like Matisse and Cézanne, and scenic roads that pass by sugar-white beaches, mountain passes, and the glittering blues of the Mediterranean Sea.

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The Faroe Islands

They’re calling them the “next Iceland”—a collection of 18 treeless islands somewhere between Iceland and Norway, dominated by nature and far from tourism. Life in the Faroes revolves around the sea, just as the landscape is shaped by it: craggy cliffs carved from the north Atlantic’s strong swells level off into verdant meadows, where colorful cottages and churches disappear and reemerge from the clouds.

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The Storr, Scotland

The Isle of Skye, in the far west Scottish Highlands, is home to landscapes so supernatural that it’s become a go-do backdrop for countless fantasy movies. Especially moving are the Storr, a formation of rocky pinnacles that jut out like spikes from a grassy hillside overlooking the island’s rugged coastline. You have to hike to get there, but don’t be deterred by the weather: Scotland’s famous rain and mist make it look that much more magical.

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Venice, Italy

Look past the crowds and you’ll find that one of the most storied cities in the world hasn’t lost an ounce of romance. Cruising the Adriatic lagoon by gondola, taking tours of its historic palazzi, snapping a photo in Piazza San Marco—it’s all been done before, but few spots in the world are as worth braving the masses to experience as this.

RELATED: 8 Hotels in Venice We’d Love to Spend a Night In

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Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia can’t compete in size, but its scenery is second to none. Every serious photographer who ends up here makes a beeline for the hills surrounding Lake Bled, where they can take in its fairytale-like central island (home to a single Gothic church built in the 1400s) and surrounding Julian Alps.

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Hallstatt, Austria

This tiny, Iron-Age hamlet spills down a slope to the shores of Lake Hallstatt and is surrounded by mountains on all sides, where scenic trails take in the area’s glaciers and incredible fall foliage come autumn. Winter is equally beautiful, especially when snow covers the alpine houses and Baroque churches and a Christmas market takes over the main square.

RELATED: 6 Glamorous Lakeside Towns in Europe You’ll Fall in Love With

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Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Western Ireland’s majestic Cliffs of Moher draw millions of visitors a year thanks to their sweeping vistas of where land meets sea and have become a symbol of their country’s beauty . See if you can spot colonies of puffins, which nest in its most isolated corners, as well as the distant Aran Islands.

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Rakotzbrücke, Germany

This addition might come as a surprise, but we love its backstory: in 1860, a local knight in Kromlau, now part of Kromlauer Park, commissioned this arched bridge with the hope that the watery reflection beneath it would create the illusion of a perfect circle. Pictures speak for themselves.

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Trolltunga, Norway

There’s not a single ugly corner to be found in the whole of the Norwegian fjords , but some hikes outdo others. One of those is the demanding 16.8-mile hike (round-trip) to Trolltunga (meaning “the troll’s tongue”), a rock formation jutting out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet.

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Kirkjufell, Iceland

Similarly to Trolltunga, one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks is as naturally beautiful as it is remote—a freestanding (and eye-pleasingly symmetrical) mountain near the northern coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula surrounded by beaches, waterfalls, and everything you’d picture Iceland to be. Its colors change drastically with the seasons, which makes for a great photo op no matter the month.

RELATED: 13 Iceland Tours That Will Get You Off the Tourist Trail

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Meteora, Greece

Only four of Meteora’s 24 original 11th-century monasteries, which were built on top of sandstone towers to protect them from pillagers during medieval times, survive. They still don’t look real.

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Bruges, Belgium

This Flemish “Venice of the North” is its own kind of canal city—one where winding river-ways share space with secret gardens, quaint chocolate shops, atmospheric breweries serving Trappist beers, and medieval architecture spared from WWII.

RELATED: 9 Dream Romantic Getaways

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Lapland, Finland

Icy forests, husky-led sled rides, herds of reindeer, tiny log cabins blanketed in snow…. Finnish Lapland, high up in the Arctic Circle, is the real-life version of the North Pole, complete with Northern Lights viewings and igloo hotels to watch them in.

RELATED: 9 Places to Embrace Winter in 2019

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Sintra, Portugal

Fantasy novels must have been inspired by Sintra . Just outside Lisbon, this gorgeous corner of Portugal is crowned by a colorful palace and the ruins of a Moorish fortress, which lord over the town. Don’t miss the Gothic national palace or time to stroll its cobbled streets when you go.

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Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

Croatia was all the rage for the past few years, but now that the sun is setting on Game of Thrones , its Mediterranean neighbor is stepping into the spotlight. Many of the country’s best draws lie in Kotor, a UNESCO-listed town overlooking the bay home to centuries-old palazzos and alleyways, standout food, and primeval forests.

RELATED: 9 Incredible Places to See in Eastern Europe

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Plitviče Lakes National Park, Croatia

Everyone knows about the Grand Canyon and the Serengeti, but have you heard of Plitvice Lakes ? If not, that’s a shame, because Croatia’s oldest national park deserves a spot up there with the bigwigs. Here, a river flowing through a mountain valley forms 16 ethereal emerald-green lakes fed by countless waterfalls. Wooden walkways let visitors explore them one by one in between hikes through the surrounding forest.

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Santorini, Greece

Fabulous black-pebble and red-sand beaches. Iconic whitewashed buildings that cling to rocks overlooking an underwater caldera. A picture-perfect blue-domed monastery (and Instagram mecca). Legendary sunsets from its main town of Oia. We said it once and we’ll say it again: this crescent-shaped Aegean island is romance gold .

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25 Most Beautiful Places in Europe — From Colorful Small Towns to Secret Beaches

Seeing is believing.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

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The phrase "an embarrassment of riches" could have easily been invented to describe the litany of lovely locales in Europe. Spread across the continent — and sometimes in quite close proximity — are myriad colorful small towns , stately chateaux, Roman ruins, ecclesiastical buildings, medieval castles , shimmering lagoons, and secluded beaches . 

While it’s not hard to stumble upon (or seek out) a photogenic destination, defining the most beautiful places in Europe is a bit more difficult because there are just so many. If you’re keen on picking a spot with endless photography potential, read on for some stunning options.

Villa Rufolo, Ravello, Italy

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Of all the dreamy Amalfi Coast towns to visit, Ravello continues to spark travel fantasies, music, and art like no other — and Villa Rufolo plays a major role in that. This resplendent maritime residence hypnotizes visitors with its cliff-clinging gardens, unique combination of architectural styles, and panoramas of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Egremni Beach, Lefkada, Greece

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A remote slice of paradise on the Greek island of Lefkada, Egremni Beach boasts some of the bluest water in the world . It’s the contrast of the turquoise sea against bright white sand that makes it so gorgeous. Despite being hard to reach (read: it requires hiking down 350 steep steps), the sheer beauty of this Ionian idyll couldn’t keep it off the tourist map entirely.

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal

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Perched atop a rocky peak in the Sintra Mountains, Pena Palace draws heaps of tourists who flock to the 19th-century castle to snap photos of its candy-colored facade and soak in the wide-ranging views. The surrounding 200-hectare park gives off secret garden vibes, with walking paths shaded by exotic trees, lakes, and ponds.

Our Lady of the Rocks, Montenegro

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Driving along the road that wraps around the Bay of Kotor provides many scenic delights — none more deserving of pulling over to stare at than Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island off the coast of Perast that’s made of rocks and dominated by the 17th-century Roman Catholic church.

Bruges, Belgium

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On rare occasions, a destination is so beautiful that putting down your camera for even a second means missing a photo op. Bruges falls into that category. The storybook capital of West Flanders resembles a movie set with canals, cobbled lanes, and prominent medieval buildings — including the symbolic Belfry of Bruges.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, Gordes, France

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The Luberon region of Provence is famed for its fragrant lavender fields. Rows of this purple plant perfume the air — and create a striking visual — outside Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a splendid example of a Cistercian monastery that hosts guided tours of the church and cloisters.

São Miguel, Azores

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Nicknamed the "Hawaii of Europe," São Miguel — the volcanic main island in the Azores archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal that’s smack-dab in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean — has breathtaking beaches, valleys teeming with lush vegetation, crater lakes, dramatic peaks, and surreal steam-emitting fumaroles.

Keukenhof, Lisse, Netherlands

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Widely regarded as the most beautiful springtime garden in the world, Keukenhof , located about 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam , comprises 32 hectares of colorful flower bulbs — including tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, orchids, roses, carnations, irises, and lilies — that erupt in a kaleidoscopic and aromatic display between late March and mid-May.

Château de Chambord, Loire Valley, France

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Château de Chambord is one of the most recognizable and magnificent crown jewels of the Loire Valley. Constructed by King Francois I in 1519, this massive royal refuge has impressed countless nobles, foreign dignitaries, and tourists over the years with its French Renaissance architecture — particularly the elaborate roofline and interior double-spiral staircase — ornamental moat, and 13,000-acre grounds.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

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The search for the bluest water in the world takes travelers to many photogenic places, including Croatia’s famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. Situated halfway between Zagreb and Zadar, this natural wonderland wows more than one million visitors each year with its crystalline lakes, waterfalls, caves, and lush forests.

Colosseum, Rome, Italy

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Classical architecture lovers would undoubtedly include the Colosseum on any list of the most beautiful places in Europe. Built under the Flavian emperors, it’s the largest ancient amphitheater ever constructed, seating 50,000 spectators. The fact that modern travelers can still witness something this emblematic and enduring is nothing short of remarkable.

Lapland, Finland

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The Arctic Circle runs through Lapland , a real-life winter wonderland with snow-dusted scenery. Beyond the landscape that looks like it was touched by Elsa, it's what's in the sky that makes it so wonderful. Travelers journeying to this rugged, remote region of Finland between September and March have the chance to peep the prismatic northern lights .

San Fruttuoso, Italy

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Wedged between Portofino Regional Natural Park and the sparkling sea, San Fruttuoso is a postcard-perfect hidden gem on the Italian Riviera with a sheltered pebbled beach, a Benedictine monastery, a few cute restaurants serving freshly caught Ligurian fare, and hiking trails that meander into the forested hillside.

Isle of Skye, Scotland

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Steeped in mythical allure, the windswept, 50-mile-long Isle of Skye overflows with mist-shrouded lochs, craggy peaks, heather moorland, pristine beaches, and fairy-tale castles. All of this and more put the largest of the Inner Hebrides in the running for most beautiful place in Scotland — and make it a favorite filming location for epic adventure quests.

Seljalandsfoss, Iceland

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Among the most spellbinding natural wonders in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss (which you might recognize from Justin Bieber’s music video “I’ll Show You”) plunges nearly 200 feet from the edge of a steep cliff. The best vantage point for gawking at this awe-inspiring waterfall? The small cave behind the curtain of spray.

La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain

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Designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, La Sagrada Familia — the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world — doesn’t need to be completed to dazzle. People line up for hours outside this Barcelona landmark just to gain entrance. Of course, you don’t have to go inside to admire the flying buttresses, twisted towers, and larger-than-life carvings of religious figures.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau, Germany

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Neuschwanstein Castle belongs in a Disney movie. Teetering on a forest-covered hilltop, this staggering 19th-century palace shows off towers, turrets, frescoes, and a grand throne room. It’s imposing, but also somehow peaceful — which was the intention of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who commissioned the palatial project as his personal retreat.

Geirangerfjord, Norway

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One of Norway's most popular and picturesque attractions, UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord inspires with its deep, blue water ringed by sky-grazing snow-capped peaks, gushing waterfalls, and green vegetation. Needless to say, forgetting your camera would be a big mistake.

Walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia

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A must-do activity on any trip to the Pearl of the Adriatic, walking along the iconic walls of Dubrovnik gives visitors an unparalleled perspective of its protective forts, bastions, and towers, plus the distinctive red roof tiles (known as kupe kanalice ), blue sea, and nearby islands.

Hallstatt, Austria

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Set on the western shore of Hallstätter See, Hallstatt has 16th-century alpine architecture, quaint cafes, scenic trails, a funicular to an ancient salt mine, and sapphire water that reflects all the aforementioned loveliness. While these elements are undeniably alluring in their own right, it’s the combination that makes this Austrian village so utterly irresistible.

Grand-Place, Brussels, Belgium

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It’s worth navigating the selfie-stick-wielding tourists that crowd in the middle of the Grand-Place to stare up in wide-eyed wonder at the grandeur of its landmarks — notably the Brabantine Gothic-style Town Hall (guided tour of the interior is possible), the neoclassical Maison des Ducs de Brabant, and the opulent Maison du Roi.

Ushguli, Georgia

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It’s hard to put into words the wonder of seeing Ushguli up close. Hidden in the Caucasus Mountains at an elevation of roughly 7,000 feet, the highest continuously inhabited destination in Europe is a place where time stands still as ancient Svanetian watchtowers, jagged peaks, old stone houses, and grazing livestock await visitors who venture to this community that was virtually cut off from the rest of the world for millennia.

Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Denmark

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Obviously, 17th-century Nyhavn was built way before social media became a thing. However, Copenhagen 's glorious waterfront district, which runs from Kongens Nytorv to the harbor, does look tailor-made for Instagram, with colorful townhouses and boats bobbing in the canals.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

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A popular Iceland attraction — and perhaps the most stunning spa on the planet — the Blue Lagoon is filled with nine million liters of geothermal turquoise water. Visitors can soak and slather on silica-rich mud while gazing at the volcanic lava fields.

Rakotzbrücke, Kromlau, Germany

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Rakotzbrücke proves that sometimes it really is worth taking the road less traveled. Despite appearing to be the work of some mythical woodland creatures, this arched masonry bridge was constructed by humans in medieval times. (However, rumors still swirl that dark forces had a hand in things.) 

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15 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe That Everyone Should See Once

By Nathalie Nietzsche-Knappe

We’d happily revisit any of the 15 most beautiful cities in Europe. Europe has countless beautiful places to see—from castles and estates to natural wonders and bucolic villages . The continent’s best cities share some elements in common—particularly the depth of culture and culinary riches that they offer visitors. At the same time, they couldn’t be more varied. Every region of Europe, and the cities in them, has its own unique appeals. Here, we have put together a list of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

You will find some familiar world capitals on our list—that London, Paris, and Rome make the cut will not surprise anyone. However, we also included some smaller destinations that, while not as well known, still manage to charm the visitors who seek them out.

Rome—the Eternal City: Italy’s capital is worth a visit not only if you are interested in its ancient past, but also because of its Baroque wonders and notable modern and contemporary buildings too.

Why does Rome fascinate so many people? Is it the traces of antiquity, the excellent cuisine, the romantic little alleyways? In fact, there is a scientific theory that may explain why we find Rome so beautiful. For Online Mortgage Advisor , analysts evaluated cities, and specifically their architecture, according to the principle of the Golden Ratio. This refers to a certain proportion between the elements of a building, or even that different parts of a person’s face, which is perceived as particularly harmonious. After evaluating thousands of Google Street View images as well as others of iconic landmarks, Rome came out near the top of the list among European cities. Others that scored highly include Venice, Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Budapest.

The Sagrada Familía in Barcelona rises magnificently into blue skies above the surrounding cityscape and palm trees. It is one of many sights in this Spanish city that can appear too beautiful to be true.

Barcelona is colorful. Barcelona is beautiful. It is warmer than many European cities, and the beach laps up to the edge of the city (with even nicer ones just a short drive or train ride away). If you are not convinced already, the capital of Catalonia also has a lot to offer travelers in search of culture—world-famous sites like the Sagrada Familía church and Park Güell, both by the acclaimed Antoni Gaudí , are just two of many. Barcelona’s cuisine and nightlife also make it an ideal destination for your next city escape or perhaps the beginning or end of a longer Spanish adventure.

It’s easy to forget, as you stroll along its canals, that the Dutch capital of Amsterdam is a major commercial and financial center. A boat tour of them is a must for visitors.

Amsterdam’s canals have shaped its history and design, creating a unique city. The narrow rowhouses that overlook them are a popular photo backdrop for visitors who fall under the spell of this romantic city. While it is a touristy activity, you won’t regret a canal cruise. Back on dry land, the art at the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum will help you to appreciate the world’s beauty from a new perspective.

A stroll through Budapest’s old town will make you fall in love with the Hungarian capital. One of the most popular sights is the ornate St. Stephen's Basilica, seen here.

By Katie Schultz

By Stefanie Waldek

By David Nash

St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Fisherman’s Bastion, the Chain Bridge, and the Hungarian Parliament are some of the jaw-dropping sights of Budapest. Its status as one of Europe’s most popular cities for travelers is not merely due to the beauty of its buildings, however. There is also Hungarian cuisine, with dishes such as lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) and goulash at the top of the list of ones you’ll want to try.

Paris isn’t just for lovers. The city opens its arms to everyone—and once you experience its embrace, you’ll never want to leave again.

Paris is the city of love, fashion, good food, cafés, the Seine, the Eiffel Tower—we could go on and on writing up a list of what makes it a uniquely beautiful destination. Because there is simply so much to discover and marvel at, this city of elegant boulevards and intimate cafes definitely earns the title of one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Baroque and Gothic wonders, stately parks, and the elegance of its affluent shopping districts help to secure Munich a place on this list.

The Alps and some of Germany’s most inviting neighbors, like Austria and Italy, are not far from Munich. You can not only enjoy all that this major German city has to offer, but it can also serve as an excellent base for activities like hiking and skiing. One must that everyone should do when they are in Munich: Visit a beer garden and learn about the city from the people who live there over beer and bratwursts. It won’t take long before you come to understand the appeal of this city, and the Bavarian way of life generally.

London’s skyline embodies ones of the characteristic traits of this city: It combines age-old traditions and cutting-edge innovation. Here, the 19th-century Tower Bridge sits amid a cityscape with everything from medieval churches to 21st-century skyscrapers.

The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and the red telephone boxes— London has many historic sights to admire. But there are also some contemporary ones that should be on your itinerary. These include the London Eye, the viewing platform of The Shard skyscraper, and the 30 St Mary Axe building (also known as the Gherkin, due to its distinctive shape), designed by Ken Shuttleworth and Norman Foster. It is a European city that will appeal both to travelers interested in history and those drawn by the newest and coolest trends in food, music, and more.

Few capitals are as wonderfully situated as Stockholm—built on 14 islands connected by more than 50 bridges. In every season of the year the effect is impressive, whether the waterways are sparkling in the summer sunlight or reflecting the glow of candlelit restaurants on chilly winter evenings.

Sweden’s capital lies, of course, in the far north of Europe. You most likely aren’t coming here for the weather, although the peak of summer is uniquely spectacular with its long days and Swedes joyously embracing their fleeting annual moment to emerge into the sun. In every season, you can experience the concentrated beauty of one of Scandinavia’s major metropolises, from the twisting streets of atmospheric Gamla Stan (the city’s historic heart) to restaurants and hotels that embody a typical Scandinavian minimalism. Stockholm is vast, and there is also a lot to discover in the surrounding area—the Stockholm archipelago with its thousands of islands, elegant Drottningholm Palace, and Skogskyrkogården (one of the world’s most beautiful cemeteries, and a UNESCO World Heritage site too).

If you want to stand on one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe, include a stroll across the Charles Bridge on your itinerary in Prague.

Fabulously beautiful—it’s not an overstatement when describing the romantic city of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. You’ll likely start to fall in love, and hard, the first time you cross the Charles Bridge (one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe) with its baroque sculptures and views of Prague Castle. There are few cities where the past feels so immediately alive as in Prague.

Getreidegasse in Salzburg is lined with ornate, historic signs for stores, restaurants, and taverns. In the peak of the tourist season, it gets crowded—but a stroll through this historic town will still likely be a highlight of your trip.

The Austrian city of Salzburg is evidence that it is not only Europe’s big capitals that can draw curious travelers from around the world. At the height of summer, thousands of visitors flock to the little street of Getreidegasse in the historic city center, year after year. Tucked amid its stores and boutiques, Getreidegasse 9 is where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in 1756. A concert of Mozart’s works in the lavish Baroque marble hall of Mirabell Palace combines musical and architectural beauty.

Porto, in northern Portugal, is another city that picks up a lot of beauty points thanks to its location, at the point where the Douro River meets the Atlantic. The city’s colorful townhouses and boats carrying port wines are reflected in the water.

Good weather, good food, good wine, and lots of culture—that’s what you'll enjoy when you travel to Porto. The city is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in Europe and thanks to its location right on the water it has a relaxed seaside feel unusual for a city its size. Porto’s architectural highlights include Baroque wonders, Art Deco apartments, and works by today’s starchitects including Rem Koolhaas (who designed the Casa da Musica) and Portugal’s own Álvaro Siza Vieira responsible for a number of spectacular buildings. Don’t spend all your time running around visiting as many sites as you can, however. That wouldn’t be very Portuguese of you. There’s also beauty in stopping and sipping a glass of port wine or enjoying a custard tart.

Even at a distance, the size of Florence’s Duomo, or cathedral, can’t fail but impress. The effect is even more notable when you are standing by the side of the building and looking up.

Florence is culture. Florence is simple Tuscan pleasures—food, wine, crafts. And Florence is home to everything beautiful you would expect from an Italian city. Renaissance masterpieces fill the Uffizi Gallery—seeing Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Bronzino’s portraits justify the journey in themselves. The Palazzo Pitti is a Renaissance masterpiece too, while its Boboli Gardens, with its follies and grottoes, represent a highlight of landscape design in Europe. Fabulous Italian restaurants serve excellent prepared versions of popular local dishes for every course, from primi piatti to dolci . It’s impossible to miss one of Florence’s most famous sights, the Duomo, with its soaring dome by Brunelleschi.

The Belgian city of Bruges may look sleepy at first glance, as if awaking from a long nap begun in another century. But don’t be fooled. Behind its old walls and evocative facades, this is a city buzzing with cultural activity and excitement.

Bruges is much smaller than Brussels, Antwerp, and handful of other Belgian cities, but it has its own powerful allure that draws in millions of visitors every year. The magic of the city lies in how completely its historic heart has been preserved over the centuries. Walking along its canals, exploring the Hanseatic Quarter, and taking in Market Square, it is easy to imagine you have stepped back in time to medieval Europe. Also, unlike a medieval visitor, you can end your day exploring with a meal at one of more than a dozen Michelin-star restaurants.

The Vienna Hofburg is one of the most important landmarks in the heart of the Austria’s capital. Built over hundreds of years, from the 13th century until 1918, it was the city residence of the Hapsburgs.

Vienna’s residents feel a deep connection to European high culture of the past. This is a city where opera performances are crowded with young people and families, as well as older patrons. The list of Vienna’s artists and musicians who left the world more beautiful than they found it include Mozart, Beethoven, Gustav Klimt, Friedensreich Hundertwasser, and many others. Even the city itself is a remarkable work of urban design, with its Ringstrasse one of the continent’s most grand boulevards. Once you have immersed yourself in the history of the city and its splendid layout, enjoy the more intimate side of Viennese life with a slice of torte or strudel and a warm drink at one of the city’s many coffeehouses.

A city by the sea—it’s a view that you don’t necessarily expect when you think of a European city getaway. The coastal city of Dubrovnik is full of surprises.

The Croatian city of Dubrovnik is becoming increasingly popular, and quite rightly so, as a popular destination in Europe. The coastal city is also known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, and you’ll likely agree it’s a fitting nickname after your visit. Sun, sea, and great food await in this city destination that comes with blue skies and ocean breezes.

By Sarah Archer

By Claudia Williams

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The prettiest cities in Europe

By Teddy Wolstenholme and Olivia Morelli

With more than 800 to pick from, whittling down Europe 's most eye-catching cities is no easy task. Beauty may well be in the eyes of the beholder, but these 10 European cities all stand out for their picturesque architecture, history-stitched streets and ridiculously photogenic settings. From the old classics to a few more off-radar treasures, here are our pick of the prettiest cities in Europe worth adding to your future travels list. If you're looking for more holiday ideas, then take a look at our expert advice on the best city breaks in Europe and the cheapest city breaks in Europe .

Barcelona, Spain

This city is one of our favourite European cities with a beach , but Barcelona is so much more than its sandy shores and picturesque waterfront restaurants. Stroll through the city streets to stumble upon Gaudi gems from the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló to La Pedrer before taking a peek at some lesser-known architectural wonders, such as the unique Modernista Palace of Catalan Music, the world’s largest Art Nouveau site, Sant Pau Recinto Modernista, or the Moorish details of the CaixaForum Barcelona art gallery. Find hidden bars down discreet alleyways – Paradiso, a speakeasy bar with breathtaking cocktails, was recently voted the best bar in the world – or reach for the skies at one of Barcelona’s beautiful rooftop bars .

Where to stay in Barcelona: One of our favourite Hoxton outposts, the Pobelnou hotel is the definition of quietly cool.

Athens, Greece

It’s no surprise that Greece ’s ancient capital made the cut. Athens is the perfect blend of crumbling ruins and modern surprises; from picturesque neighbourhoods and Cycladic architecture to ancient citadels and classy bars. There are the obvious places to tick off your prettiest places bucket list (the Parthenon, the Acropolis and the Roman Agora, for example), but head into the lesser-known neighbourhoods to discover the city’s most beautiful spots. Anafiotika is a scenic village with whitewashed houses and cutesy streets, Plaka is an area with tiny shops and locally run galleries and Monastiraki has amazing flea markets with intricately woven carpets and handmade jewellery.

Where to stay in Athens: The Margi is set back from the sandy shores of Athens’ southern suburbs on the Riviera – an easy-going, family-run option.

Edinburgh, UK

The Scottish capital is a city we will never tire of. Edinburgh is a city of hills, so while clambering up sheer cliffs and staggering around steep streets may feel like an effort, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most epic skyline views you can imagine – think pink cloudy sunsets punctured with iconic monuments and sculptures from the Scott Monument on Princes Street to the gothic New College Library on top of The Mound. Down below, winding cobblestone streets lead to historic churches and generations-old pubs where you can hole up with a pint and a pie, or head to Stockbridge to browse local trinket shops and stroll along the Water of Leith trail.

Where to stay in Edinburgh: Gleneagles Townhouse is Scotland’s most exciting newcomer of late, a younger sister to the original Gleneagles – this one has a spectacular restaurant, delightful rooms and a terrific rooftop bar.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul has a chequered history. Neolithic artefacts found on archaeological digs suggest the Gateway to Asia has been occupied for more than 2,500 years. The ancient Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans have all left their stamp on the world’s only bicontinental city, leaving fascinating imprints still visible today. Sultanahmet is where many of the city’s famous attractions are, from the church-turned-mosque Hagia Sophia to the spectacular Blue Mosque; visit at night to see the religious site illuminated in cyan light. On the Bosphorus Strait, day boats, passenger ferries and cargo ships chug through the murky waters past some of Turkey ’s most opulent hotels, sprawling parks, and myriad minarets – the call to prayer echoing out into the heavens. To see the city in all its glory, go up. Galata Tower is one of the best places to see Constantinople from above, with restored religious monuments and modern city blocks reflecting the sun’s rays side-by-side.

Where to stay in Istanbul: The Four Seasons Hotel at Sultanahmet is now one of Istanbul ’s grandest hotels – but the building has a fascinating history. Built in the early 20th century, it was the first jailhouse in the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Cells are now luxurious rooms, and the restaurants are dining destinations in themselves; head to Süreyya Teras Lounge for cocktails against a backdrop of the Hagia Sophia as its dome glistens at golden hour.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon 's been having a moment for some years now. And it’s easy to see why so many fall for this colourful Portuguese city, packed with beautiful old buildings painted in warm ochre and blushing pink , grand façades lined with glossy azulejos and elegant rococo squares draped in blousy bougainvillaea. This is Europe’s second oldest capital (after Athens ) and history resonates everywhere – from the tapestry of cobbled streets to the ramparts of São Jorge Castle, the most distinct feature on the city skyline. By far the most fun way to explore is by hopping on a canary-yellow tram; if you ride just one, make in number 28, which trundles through some of Lisbon’s most beguiling ancient barrios. You’re never short of views here either – best sucked in at sunset from one of the many lookout points, when that famous Lisbon light bounces off terracotta rooftops before sinking behind the seven hills cradling the city.

Where to stay in Lisbon: For grandeur and glamour, The Lumiares is the place to book. Think panoramic city views and Portuguese elegance encased in a 17th-century palace.

Granada, Spain

Set along the dramatic foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada refuses to be overshadowed by its bigger-hitting Spanishneighbours. Awash with Andalucian charm, it’s been shaped by centuries of Moorish rule, leaving behind both an extraordinary cultural legacy and one of Europe’s most seductive monuments. Of course, it’s the mighty Alhambra palace that epitomises its beauty; an exotic hilltop tangle of citadels, colonnaded courtyards, jasmine-scented gardens and tinkling fountains. But don’t overlook the rest of this captivating city, filled with half-forgotten churches, galleried cloisters and the striking old Arab quarter, where traces of ancient bathhouses, former city gates and vine-draped whitewashed buildings with Moorish detailing hark back to its very chequered past.

Where to stay in Granada: A faux-Moorish palace with fabulous views – the Alhambra Palace is a stellar option when exploring the pretty city of Granada.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

With its shiny limestone streets and hotch-potch of medieval, renaissance and grand baroque architecture, lost-in-time Dubrovnik – one of Europe's best-preserved walled cities – has a cinematic beauty to it. From the ramparts of the UNESCO -protected, terracotta-hued Old Town, views peek down to pine-studded pebbly beaches (a honeypot for sun-seeking locals) and boats bobbing in the harbour – making this the perfect city break with a slice of sea too. It’s easy enough to check off the main sites in a weekend, so linger for a few more days to island hop around the sleepy nearby Elafiti Islands or explore Lokrum, a pretty islet and nature reserve within kayaking distance of the shore. Both spots are mercifully removed from the madding cruise ships crowds – which, in high summer, can sometimes become a bit of a blot on the Old Town’s beauty.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik: Villa Dubrovnik is set directly into a cliff, where all rooms have balconies and fabulous views – plus there is a private beach at the bottom of the cliff.

Bergen, Norway

Norway isn’t short of beautiful scenery, but Bergen, ringed by snow-capped peaks, glassy fjords and wild islets, parcels up a little bit of everything that makes the country so beguiling. Despite being Norway’s second largest city, it has a toy-town charm, crammed with colourful gabled houses stretching out along the historic wharf, steep, narrow streets and white-painted wooden buildings hugging the misty hillside. For the best views, ride the funicular up to the top of Fløyen, one of the city’s seven mountains – it’s the jumping-off point for hikes through pretty pine forest and around icy lakes. Getting rained on is a given (Bergen has been crowned one of Europe’s wettest cities), but there’s a wealth of art galleries, museums and a world-famous fish market to duck into if you ever need to run for cover.

Where to stay in Bergen: This 19th-century building used to be Bergen’s stock exchange, and now Bergen Børs Hotel is a stylish hotel perfect for exploring the city.

Sarah James

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli

Tallinn, Estonia

It’s hard to ignore the high-rises gobbling up the distant horizon as you fly into Tallinn – yet this under-the-radar Baltic gem is the absolute antithesis of the grey former Soviet city you might expect. The real jewel of the pocket-sized Estonian capital is the absurdly photogenic Old City, where pastel-pink houses wrap around the main square, grand gothic spires and crenellated castle turrets stud the romantic skyline and hidden alleyways open up onto medieval courtyards with extraordinary, still-intact Hanseatic merchants’ houses. Up on Toompea hill – the focal point – the Disney-esque castle provides a striking contrast to the black gilded domes of the Russian-Orthodox cathedral. If you can, visit in winter, when a thick layer of snow crunches underfoot and the city takes on a whole new atmosphere.

Where to stay in Tallinn : The cosy Schlössle Hotel is tucked away in Tallinn’s Unesco World Heritage-listed Old Town, complete with rustic wooden beams and blazing fires.

History-rich Bath sits right at the top of our list of the most beautiful cities on home turf. This quietly charming Somerset town shot to fame in Roman times for its mineral-rich thermal waters, later becoming a stomping ground for well-to-do Georgians who flaunted their wealth by building the elegant streets and curvaceous crescents from buttery Bath stone. Today, it’s a picturesque bubble of cosy tearooms, artisan markets and independent boutiques, anchored around the magnificent seventh-century Abbey and gorgeous Pulteney Bridge, Bath’s answer to Venice 's Rialto or Florence 's Ponte Vecchio. If you’re seeking fresh country air, Royal Victoria Park is an oasis of botanical gardens, wild meadows and gurgling streams, while the pretty Cotswolds gently but gloriously unfurl along the fringes of the city.

Where to stay in Bath: Explore the city, then retreat just outside the hustle and bustle where The Pig Near Bath offers pretty bedrooms, a spa, and a wildflower orchard, all wrapped up in a former family country house.

Bruges, Belgium

Brimming with olde-worlde hotels, quirky bars, shops peddling chocolate and lace and art galleries lined with Old Masters, the beautifully preserved historic centre of Bruges is the real star of this canal-laced city best admired from a boat. Time seems to stand still as you float past medieval façades and romantic stone bridges, soaking up the extraordinary gothic architecture and gingerbread-like houses jutting out over the water. It’s a delightful place to wander on foot too, nosing around ancient churches, navigating maze-like cobbled streets and attempting the 366 steps to the top of the belfry – the city centrepiece and prime spot to take in the incredible views. For a change of scenery, hop on a bicycle and head out of town towards Damme, a lovely medieval canalside village and perfect place to while away a go-slow afternoon.

Where to stay in Bruges: Book a room at The Pand for a masterclass in the art of cosy, charming European hotels.

Paris, France

No list would be complete without Paris , the poster child for beautiful European hubs. There’s a reason why such fuss is made of the city of love and lights, an intoxicating mix of grand boulevards and secret cobbled passageways; arresting architecture and peerlessly elegant gardens; world-class museums and gilded history – and of course, a clutch of the most instantly recognisable monuments in the world. There’s too much to tick off in one visit, yet one of the joys of the city is its patchwork of arrondissements, each neighbourhood its own little pocket of charm, character and beauty, from artsy Saint-Germain to hipster Belleville and deliciously bohemian Montmartre. Getting lost in Paris is part of the fun – as is stopping to soak it all in from a wicker-chair-lined pavement café , one of this place’s greatest institutions bar none.

Where to stay in Paris: A stay at Cheval Blanc Paris is a guaranteed win, with works by global artists dotted around inside and 72 sleek rooms to choose from.

Venice, Italy

There’s no other city quite like Venice . Little changed over the centuries, it’s a whirlwind of history, architecture, culture and art. There are plenty of big-ticket sites to soak up: the Grand Canal, surely the world’s greatest thoroughfare; glimmering St Mark’s Basilica; the Gallerie dell'Accademia with all its visual drama. But by far the best way to get under the skin of the place is by wandering from piazza to palazzo , criss-crossing over pretty bridges lined with candy-striped gondola moorings, ducking down alleys, peeking into backstreet churches and stumbling upon hidden cicchetti bars. At times, Venice risks being mired by its own beauty, so when the crowds get too much, flit over to one of the islands on the quieter side of the lagoon, such as Burano, a colourful kaleidoscope of quaint fishermen’s houses and a more authentic side of the city.

Where to stay in Venice: Cipriani, A Belmond hotel , is home to tennis courts, a kitchen garden, a vineyard, and a spa within the orange blossom-scented Casanova gardens – all within walking distance of Venice’s most spectacular spots.

Valletta, Malta

Resplendent with its twisty-turny ancient streets, worn ornate façades on butterscotch buildings and original 16th-century bastion walls, the tiny sepia-tinged, sun-drenched Maltese capital is one of Europe’s most underrated delights, sitting plum at the crossroads of the Mediterranean. But it’s not all antiquated. Since being crowned a European Capital of Culture in 2018, Valletta ’s been buffed and preened to perfection, paving the way for a crop of new restaurants and funky boutique hotels delicately shoehorned into handsome medieval buildings anchored around the sparkling Grand Harbour. Best of all, it’s just a hop, skip and jump from the rest of this minuscule island’s treasures, so after a full-on morning of sightseeing, it’s an easy retreat to the blue lagoons and golden beaches for the afternoon.

Where to stay in Valetta: 66 Saint Paul’s has a dinky rooftop pool and wonderful views over the city.

The Most Beautiful Place in Every European Country

We’re bringing the best of europe to you..

Summer is fast approaching, and if it were any other year,  6.7 million Americans would be dog-earring their Rick Steves’ guides, practicing their Dutch, and getting psyched for their summer vacation to Europe. But 2020 is… different. 

There are signs that things might start picking up across the pond: Many European countries began scaling back their lockdown measures this month, and Greece says it will reopen to tourists come July. And as early as June, American, Delta, and United Airlines plan to resume some of their transatlantic service to major European hubs. 

Still, Europe’s ban on foreign travel has been extended to June 15, and much of the US remains partially or fully shut-down . In our new normal, it’s hard to imagine us picnicking along the Seine or sipping gin & tonics in Barcelona anytime soon. 

To that end, we’re bringing the best of Europe to you. There’s a grand total of 48 countries across this ultra-diverse continent, from Iceland in the north to Cyprus in the south, and even out to the Ural Mountains in Russia. Here are the most beautiful places to see in each; add ‘em to your bucket list for 2021.  

Ksamil Beach Is Albania at the top of your beach vacation wishlist this summer? Didn’t think so. Maybe that’s because you haven’t seen the beach at Ksamil, the jewel of the Albanian Riviera, with dazzling white sand, turquoise water, and three idyllic islands in the bay. Don’t forget your snorkel.

Lagos de Tristaina These high-mountain lakes are your reward for taking on the Estanys de Tristaina hiking trail, a 3-mile route next to the French border in the north of this bite-sized principality. Free-grazing horses hang out up here, presumably for the killer combination of fresh water and awesome views. Take a picnic, and something to wear for your well-earned dip.   

Tatev Monastery This 1,000-year-old monastery has endured a history almost as dramatic as its clifftop setting, with imperial invaders taking turns ransacking it and even the odd earthquake shaking things up. Legend has it that the name comes from the time an apprentice fell from the tower and called out for God to give him wings -- “Ta tev” in Armenian. Probably best not to check if that trick still works.

Alpbach In our professional opinion, there’s nothing more beautiful than inhaling obscene amounts of cheese and schnapps whilst hiking through the Alps on the “ Cheese Road .” But Alpbach’s been voted Austria’s most beautiful village by... all of the people in all of Austria, and who are we to argue? The area's lush green fields were a filming location for The Sound of Music and in the winter, the hills are even more alive as snow-caked ski runs.

Mir Castle This 16th-century castle was built in Gothic Belarussian style, before Baroque and Renaissance touches were added on by a later owner -- so really it’s a wonder it has turned out so pretty. Inside, it’s a treasure trove of history, from the castle’s aristocratic origins to its conversion to a Jewish ghetto during World War II.

Bruges The Flemish city of Bruges isn't exactly in need of discovery: Its immaculately preserved medieval architecture and winding canals are so pristine, so fairytale-like, that its tourist-magnetism was a running joke in the cult classic film that bears its name. Still, exploring the city -- from its winding alleys to its ancient basement pubs and centerpiece-- it's impossible not to accidentally quote that movie every time you turn a corner. Fuckin' Bruges indeed.

MORE: Want a seedier take on Belgium? Check out Shitty Guide.

Bosnia-Herzegovina

Pliva Waterfall The River Pliva plunges into the River Vrbas right in center of Jajce, a pretty hillside town two-and-a-half hours from Sarajevo. The 60-foot wall of water is spectacular year-round, but come on the first weekend in August and you get the added thrill of seeing people far less sane than you compete in the annual jumping contest.

Seven Rila Lakes Ask any Bulgarian, and they’ll tell you the Seven Rila Lakes is not to be missed. These seven glacial pools are rugged and majestic, sitting 8,200 feet above sea level in the country’s remote northwest. A day’s trek around this meandering region, and you'll understand the meaning of living free.

Krka National Park Honestly, the most beautiful spot in Croatia might be Plitvice Lakes National Park, which is basically Fern Gully on drugs. Google it, we’ll wait. Walkways and hiking trails will transport you over and around this majestic forest reserve and its cascading turquoise waterfalls -- but you cannot swim there. Enter Krka National Park, the less-crowded, lesser-known alternative nearby. The water is just a turquoise and you can actually get in it. It’s about 85% as beautiful as Plitviče, and when adjusted for the swimming handicap comes out to 200% as beautiful. That’s basic maths.

MORE:   Feast your eyes on Croatia’s best beaches

Aphrodite's Rock (Petra tou Romiou) Greek mythology says this boulder marks the spot where the Goddess of Love was born amid wild, churning water. Which makes sense, as the waves are rough and swimming is ill-advised (although local legend has it that anyone who does will be blessed with eternal beauty -- assuming, of course, that they survive).

Moravia Prague tends to take a lot of credit for the Czechia's beauty , but there’s something equally as magnetic -- and delightfully underrated -- about Moravia. These emerald landscapes and vineyards seem to stretch on forever. Maybe it’s the wine goggles, but settling down here doesn’t sound like such a bad idea.

Skagen For years, Denmark’s artistic and bohemian crowd have been coming to Skagen for inspiration. The scenery is amazing, crystal blue waters layered with colorful fishing boats and the most surreal sunsets. At the tip of Skagen you can find Råbjerg Mile, northern Europe’s largest wandering sand dunes. Although where they're wandering, nobody knows. Badum-ching!

Tallinn Estonia’s capital is one of few destinations in the world that seamlessly blends medieval and modern, with glass skyscrapers and ancient turrets both locked in the same gaze. Tallinn’s one of Europe’s best-preserved walled cities, and 21st-century history definitely adds another interesting veneer to its rickety cobblestone streets. And it’s cheap, to boot .

Finnish Lakeland (Järvi-Suomi) Thousands of years ago, continental glaciers shifted to create one of Europe’s most striking natural masterpieces: Järvi-Suomi, or the Finnish Lakeland. It’s the continent’s largest lake district, an incredible labyrinth of thousands of ponds, rivers, islands, and streams.  

Giverny Giverny is the real-life setting for some of Claude Monet’s most famous works. Today, the birthplace of French impressionism is every bit as stunning as it was in watercolor: a fairytale garden of rose arches, weeping willows, and water lilies tucked into Normandy’s countryside.

Ushguli This village of 200 people is 7,190 feet above sea level, making it the highest settlement in Europe (unless you include Amsterdam HA HA HA). It’s a tiny, tumbledown kind of place, but well worth the trip for the wall-to-wall views of the mighty Caucasus Mountains and the chance to hike or horse-ride to the Shkhara glacier.

Neuschwanstein Castle Even if you find dirndl and lederhosen to be a questionable fashion statement, there’s no denying that the Bavarian Alps are surefire beauty. Also, the beer! But just for good measure, let’s throw a fairytale 19th-century hilltop castle into the picture.

Greece 

Rhodes You could basically play Greek Isle roulette and find a correct answer for Greece's most jaw-dropping locale: from hedonistic Mykonos to crowded Santorini, everything's a blur of great food and crystal waters. But Rhodes packs in everything that made the area the preferred vacation spot of the gods -- well-preserved ruins, chill resorts, pristine beaches hugged by craggy waters -- with a reduced chance of running into Lindsey Lohan. That gives it the edge. 

MORE: There are even more Greek isles hiding under the radar

Lake Balaton Lake Balaton is nothing but gorgeous turquoise for as far as the eye can see. Hungary’s most famous blue-green body of water is also the largest and shallowest in all of Europe (that’s right, probably the most relaxing swim of your entire life). It would all seem rather Mediterranean if it weren’t for all those cute Hungarian farmhouses wrapped in thick woodland groves.

Reynisfjara Beach Iceland's Ring Road is near mythical at every bend, from isolated craters whose waters look like melted turquoise to glaciers and waterfalls. But there's just something eerily beautiful about Reynisfjara, a black-sand beach whose shoreline is scattered with twisted, spiked rock spires whose colorlessness gives the feeling that you've walked into a photo negative. It sits in extreme contrast to the lush green hills in the distance, and the basalt columns and vertiginous cliffs surrounding the beach just add to its otherworldliness.

Cliffs of Moher As seen in  Harry Potter , the Princess Bride , and some Maroon 5 video (does it really matter which one?), the Cliffs of Moher are one of the world’s must-see attractions -- and with good reason. From atop these platforms of vertical limestone, you can see for miles on a clear day. The rush of the wind and the salty sea air make this the kind of spot that everybody should throw on their bucket list before they "Runaway." Fine, there, we told you the song.

Cinque Terra Yes, you're certain to encounter more Eat, Pray, Love -packing travelers here than most places in Italy, but there's a damn good reason: The five kaleidoscopic villages of Cinque Terre are about as dreamy as you can get in a country that counts Rome, Venice, and Tuscany among its treasures. Seeing this in person is worth the price of your social feed becoming a cliche.

MORE: Dive deeper to the paradises that await just beyond Cinque Terre

Sharr Mountains Springs, lakes, and frozen-in-time wooden villages are dotted across the landscape beneath these 9,000-foot peaks, which offer some of the best hiking and biking in the Balkans. Keep your eyes out for wild horses, rare Balkan lynxes, and Europe’s only freshwater turtles.

Venta Rapid (Ventas Rumba) OK, so this waterfall probably won’t fit in your iPhone camera frame. Venta Rapid is a playful combination of broad (360 feet wide) and stubby (all of 6 feet high). Its sheer cascade falling over green moss and rocks is peaceful and a lot of fun to splash around in.

Curonian Spit Wild forest, sand dunes, and the ocean hypnotically unite at Curonian Spit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a lagoon with Europe’s highest sand dunes and Drunkard’s Forest, which is covered in tree trunks that are mysteriously curled, twisted, and always asking for money to hit the liquor store.

Chemin de la Corniche Hailed as Europe’s most beautiful balcony, a stroll down Chemin de la Corniche never gets old. The promenade offers amazing views of the river canyon and Luxembourg’s ancient fortress Wenceslas Wall. In the winter, when the trees and houses are tipped with ice, Chemin de la Corniche looks even more like it came out of a storybook.

St. Jovan Kaneo If the locals in the fishing village down below needed any encouragement to go to church, they got it in spades when St. Jovan Kaneo was built. It’s got 13th-century frescoes and stone carvings aplenty, but this place is all about its setting: perched on a cliff above the glassy Lake Ohrid.

Dwejra Bay This giant rock arch on the island of Gozo is home to some of Malta’s best rock pooling, snorkeling, and diving. Its most famous spot is the rock formation called the Azure Window, like a limestone picture frame for the Mediterranean Sea and sky.

Cricova winery If you didn’t know already, Moldova is big on wine. The Cricova estate is the most prestigious, entertaining and intoxicating the likes of Yuri Gagarin, John Kerry, and Vladimir Putin in its maze of underground cellars. Up above, gazillions of vines stretch across rolling hills near the capital city, Chisinau.

Le Rocher There’s not a whole lot of Monaco to choose from, and most of it is made from concrete and glass. “The Rock” stands out as the prettiest part of this micro-country, with a royal palace and quaint old town that feels a million miles from the apartment blocks and superyachts down below.

Perast There’s only one main street in Perast, but it has a whopping 16 churches and 17 Italianate palazzos. Take a boat out to the islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Rock, or spend the day paddling in the Bay of Kotor (you know, the one you’ve salivated over in every cruise ship brochure since 2008).

Netherlands

Keukenhof This psychedelic flower field is only open from March to May every year, and it’s seriously a blooming spectacle. Keukenhof is one of the world’s largest flower gardens, with over 7 MILLION tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and so on packed onto a mere 80 acres.

Trolltunga We know, you’ve seen that photo a thousand times on your Instagram feed, but that’s doesn’t make it any less of a jaw-dropper. “The Troll’s Tongue” juts out into open air some 2,000 feet above Ringedalsvatnet lake, giving you the perfect opportunity to raise your arms and lord it up over the landscape.

Zakopane Poland’s winter capital, Zakopane, is one of those rare places that truly comes alive after the snow falls. It’s rather secluded, with rustic log cabins set against glistening summits and alpine meadows. If you’re thinking about a cozy ski getaway in the middle of nowhere, consider your decision made.

São Miguel, the Azores We stared a long, long time at these beaches in Portugal . But at the end of the day, it’s gotta be the Azores , a set of nine volcanic islands that look like Hawaii, Scotland, and New Zealand all rolled into one. The largest and dreamiest of the bunch is São Miguel, with dramatic lakes shrouded in fog, relaxing hot springs, hidden waterfalls, and colorful, Hydrangea-lined roadways. Plus beaches.

Danube Delta The Danube River stretches from Germany to the Black Sea, and the stretch that runs through Romania is particularly superb. Reed marshes and swampland accents the clear blue waters, and there are even secluded beaches to discover.

Suzdal It seems like time stopped in Suzdal in 1864, the year the Russian government decided not to route the Trans-Siberian Railway through the town. Today, the storybook Kremlin with its starry blue onion domes remains just as it always was, with a river meandering by and choristers shuffling to services across the courtyard.

Guaita Of the three mountain-top medieval towers in San Marino, Guaita is the oldest, largest, and most photogenic. It has stood proud over the microstate since the 11th century, and not once -- not once ! -- has it been conquered.

Uvac Gorge Gorge by name, gorgeous by nature. The Uvac river curls lazily back and forth through this sheer-sided canyon, where dozens of mysterious caves have eroded out of the limestone cliffs. The best way to explore them is on a guided boat tour -- just remember to look up occasionally to spot the 10-foot wingspan of griffon vultures swooping overhead.

High Tatras Mountains The tallest range of the Carpathian Mountains, the views from the High Tatras Mountains are astounding. Here you’ll find top ski resorts tucked into an alpine wonderland, and some of the most gasp-worthy trails that Europe has to offer.  

Bled Despite the foreboding name, this is Slovenia’s most popular holiday resort town and is found between the highest peaks of the Julian Alps and the Karavanke. Lake Bled’s known for its transparent azure waters and Vintgar Gorge, a 5,249-foot wooden walkway (built 1893) that daringly crisscrosses over the Radovna River.

Ronda, Andalusia  In Spain’s laidback, slow-rolling south, a chain of hilltop villages known as Pueblos Blancos, or “White Villages,” are easily spotted by their simple whitewashed houses, ancient Moorish architecture, labyrinthine streets and sheer cliff faces. The most spectacular is Ronda, with sweeping views of the Tajo canyon from dizzying heights (that bridge in the photo crosses about a 500-foot ravine).

Kosterhavet One road trip through Sweden’s marine national park, and you’ll fall head over heels with Kosterhavet’s idyllic scenery. Life just moves slowly here too, like the gentle breeze on the water rocking the docked fishing boats. This is the kind of place you can count on for an adventure, but you know, the chill kind.

Switzerland

Zermatt Switzerland is full of fantasy landscapes come true, and they don’t come dreamier than Zermatt. Cozy chalets are nestled beneath sculpted ski runs and sweet-scented pine forests, with the almighty Matterhorn presiding over the entire valley.

Cappadocia Unless you’ve got connections at NASA or a few billion in the bank, this is your best shot at landing on another planet. It’s close enough, anyway, with a surreal landscape of honey-colored rocks and ancient caves. Hot air ballooning is the thing to do.

Isle of Skye Bath is arguably the crown jewel of old-school English beauty, and Wales packs enough picturesque vistas to justify naming a village llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. But for pure, epic scope, Scotland's Isle of Skye is king. The perpetually wet island rises from rough seas, a bright-green land of fairy pools and misty mountains, arduous hikes, and warm pubs. We hear the whisky's pretty good too. It's the only place in Europe that could feasibly hold its own against New Zealand in terms of pure sweep -- yet it packs all the wonder into a package half the size of Rhode Island.

The Tunnel of Love Nature has had its way with this disused railway line, and couples everywhere should be thankful for it. Nowadays, the trees arch right over the tracks, creating a magical sun-dappled tunnel. And tempting though it is, don’t be that guy blasting Springsteen out of a Bluetooth speaker -- unless you get kicks out of ruining someone else’s engagement.

Vatican City

Sistine Chapel It’s the world’s smallest country, so we can be specific: the most beautiful place in the Vatican City is about 25 paces into the Sistine Chapel, looking up at the ceiling in wonder and wishing you’d paid more attention in art class.

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The most beautiful places in Europe – chosen by you

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written by Lottie Gross

updated 16.02.2024

To celebrate our dazzling European neighbours, we took to Facebook and Twitter to ask our followers to vote for the most beautiful places in Europe – the spots that, quite simply, blew them away. After much debate, here is what our readers and travel experts have whittled down to be the most beautiful places in Europe.

1. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

2. the pristine beaches of corsica, france, 3. the scenic streets of andalucia, spain, 4. lofoten islands for the northern lights and more, 5. the beautiful scenery of lake como, italy, 6. the infamous bled lake, slovenia, 7. greek islands & monasteries, 8. the rolling hills of the welsh coastline, 9. the alpine meadows of lauterbrunnen valley, swiss alps, 10. plitvice lakes national park, croatia — one of the most beautiful places in europe, 11. the mediterranean sea from the amalfi coast, italy, 12. the scenic trails of the kravica waterfalls, bosnia and herzegovina, 13. the iconic image of the seven rila lakes, bulgaria, 14. the coastal towns of the bay of kotor, montenegro, 15. the fairy pools of the scottish highlands.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide to travelling in this great region.

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A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

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Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice can sometimes feel like visiting another planet. Iceland 's landscapes are impressively varied and will often leave you speechless. Pictured below are the craters of Laki that sit beneath a mountain of the same name within Vatnajökull National Park.

For more European inspiration, discover the best countries for summer in Europe .

Where to stay near Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland:

• For a stay with breathtaking views: Hotel Skaftafell
• For a stay with luxury: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon

Skaftafell, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland - one of the most beautiful places in Europe © Jens Ottoson/Shutterstock

From snow-encrusted Alps ripe for skiing to pretty cities perfect for exploring on foot – not to mention a vast and varied coastline with historic beaches and glitzy resorts – France has it all. Corsica is known for its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and vibrant culture. These amazing landscapes are some of the best Europe has to offer.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Our tailor-made service allows you to travel without the hassle. Our Iconic France trip will take you from Paris to the French Riviera. All tailor-made trips can be modified together with your local expert.

Aerial view of Rondinara beach of Corsica Island in France © Samuel Borges Photography/Shutterstock

From the country's mesmerising landscapes and heavenly beaches to its delicious food, Spain has a beauty all over. Andalusia, a region in southern Spain, is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. It has also been voted by our readers as one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

• For a stay with a nice modern room: Vincci Larios Diez

Or find your perfect accommodation near Andalucia, Spain

Andalucia, Spain © Madrugada Verde/Shutterstock

It's no surprise that many of our readers chose Norway as the most beautiful place in Europe. There's beauty all around here, from skies where the aurora borealis dance above at night, to seas that teem with marine life.

The Lofoten Islands in Norway offer breathtaking views of rugged mountains, and picturesque fishing villages — making it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It's also a fantastic place to bring the kids .

Bergen and the fjords, Norway © Pixabay

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This boot-shaped country has a lot to offer: idyllic islands, peaceful lakes and gorgeous mountains. Lake Como, located in the Lombardy region of Italy , is a picturesque destination known for its stunning alpine scenery, luxurious villas, and charming lakeside towns. Discover a host of fun facts about Italy .

Ready to see Lake Como? Our tailor-made trip service makes travelling easy by taking care of the planning and booking. Our Lakes and Mountains trip takes you from Lake Como in Italy to the mountains in Switzerland. Our trips are crafted by local travel experts and are completely customisable.

Varenna old town in Como Lake © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

A small nation, sandwiched between Croatia and Italy, Slovenia is often overlooked thanks to its increasingly popular neighbours. But that's not because it isn't beautiful. There are gorgeous alpine mountains, pretty little beaches and gorgeous rolling hills dotted with vineyards.

Within a basin surrounded by the rugged, snowcapped Julian Alps lies Lake Bled. This is Slovenia’s most visited resort, northwest of Ljubljana.

Our Croatia and Slovenia trip will take you through Croatia before heading out to see Lake Bled and Slovenia's capital Ljubljana. All tailor-made trips can be modified together with your local expert.

Bled Lake of Slovenia / CC0

From ancient ruins to beautiful beaches, Greece has manmade and natural beauty aplenty. Head to Metéora for an otherworldly rock-climbing experience , or island hop your way around the gorgeous Aegean to pretty little beaches like this one on Mykonos.

Monastery perched on a rock in Meteora, Greece © Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock

You voted Wales one of the most beautiful countries in the world , so it was bound to also turn up here. Rough Guides Twitter follower Kerstin voted for Wales because of its gorgeous sunsets, and who could say no to this one near Llandanwg, on the Cambrian Coast?

Mount Snowdon with dramatic lakes and valley @ Simon Bennett/Shutterstock

This small but special country full of alpine peaks, tumbling valleys and an extraordinary selection of outdoor activities , is a sight to behold in both winter and summer.

The Lauterbrunnen Valley is a natural wonderland, characterized by its majestic waterfalls, towering mountains, and lush green meadows that are perfect for hiking and skiing.

The spectacular view of the alpine meadows in Swiss Alps © kaband/Shutterstock

Consistently one of the most popular destinations on RoughGuides.com, it's no surprise that Croatia featured heavily in our followers' comments on the most beautiful places in Europe.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a natural wonderland, renowned for its stunning cascading lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Orsula Park in Dubrovnik © Karmela Kortizija/Shutterstock

Italy has been selected as one of the most beautiful places in Europe not once, but twice, thanks to its wealth of natural sites.

The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist destination. Come here for the colourful cliffside villages, turquoise waters, and stunning mountainous scenery. This is a fantastic place to take in the Mediterranean sun.

Where to stay off of the Amalfi Coast:

• For a stay walking distance from the beach: La dimora del nonno
• For a stay with city views: B&B Vietri Centro 2

Amalfi, Italy © proslgn/Shutterstock

It's no surprise that Bosnia and Herzegovina made our list as it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The stunning country is home to several stunning natural wonders.

The Kravica Waterfalls are no exception. This series of cascading waterfalls create a stunning sight amidst the lush greenery. Take a dip in the refreshing pools or explore hiking trails through the surrounding forests to take in the serene natural beauty.

Kravice waterfall on the Trebizat River in Bosnia and Herzegovina © Shutterstock

Bulgaria's natural beauty makes easily it one of the most stunning places in Europe. With its towering Rila Mountains and sandy beaches of the Black Sea coast, Bulgaria offers visitors a diverse range of landscapes to explore.

The Seven Rila Lakes is a series of seven glacial lakes surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. The views here are simply unforgettable.

Seven Rila Lakes in National Park Rila, Bulgaria © Shutterstock

The stunning Bay of Kotor, nestled between towering mountains and crystal-clear waters, helped this country earn its reputation as one of the most beautiful places in Europe — attracting visitors from around the world.

Here you'll find a beautiful bay, known for its tranquil blue waters, majestic mountains, and charming coastal towns.

Kotor, Montenegro © Shutterstock

The Scottish Highlands — known for a rugged and wild landscape characterized by rolling hills, majestic mountains, and shimmering lochs. Few destinations have quite as breathtaking of a terrain.

Our readers chose the Fairy Pools, of the Isle of Skye, as their top pick. Here you'll find a stunning collection of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools nestled in the rugged Cullin Mountains.

Where to stay on the Isle of Skye:

• For a pod-style cabin: Lochview Pods
• For a charming bed and breakfast: Clouds B&B

Or see other options for accommodation on the Isle of Skye

Fairy Pools Waterfall Skye Island Scotland © Shutterstock

Planning your dream trip to Europe

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The 20 Best Places to Visit in Europe

I dunno about you guys but for me, there’s something exciting about a new year of adventures… the endless possibilities of where I might end up, who I’ll meet along the way and what will come of another year globetrotting. Because I’m absolutely certain I am European in another lifetime (aside from eating dinner after 8:00 pm – ever), I’ve put together a comprehensive list of 20 places that will absolutely take your breath away Europe. These are the “bucket list” cities and towns, the “once in a lifetime” experiences and for sure, they’re all honeymoon approved. So here they are… the most breathtaking places to visit in Europe!

The Best Places in Europe

1. positano, italy.

We’ll start with an obvious choice and a place I have been harping on about since the first time I laid eyes on it; Positano, a coastal town on the idyllic Amalfi Coast in Italy.  Positano is nestled in the cliffside of the jaw-dropping Amalfi coast, far enough away that you’ll find it an effort to reach but close enough to make the area a whole trip in itself. Surrounding Positano you have the Isle of Capri, nearby Sorrento (which I’d also highly recommend), Ravello and Amalfi itself. Each of these towns deserve a couple of days attention, but suffice it to say Positano is the one that will take your heart hook, line and sinker.

Read more: Where to Honeymoon in Italy

Read more: The Amalfi Coast Map & Towns to Visit

2. Bruges, Belgium

Its no secret that I adore Belgium and still believe it is one of the most underrated, overlooked countries to visit in Western Europe. Before travelling to Belgium for the first time I was warned it would be “boring”, “expensive” and “not worth my while”. Wrong, wrong, wrong again. Belgium is full of quaint little charming cities/towns and that is most evident in the city of Bruges.

3. Lake Como, Italy

If it is good enough for Clooney, it has sure got my interest.   Lake Como  in the Northern lakes region of Italy feels like a world away from reality. Small towns, ferry transport, impressive villas and incredible regional cuisine are just the beginning. If ever you feel like you just want to “get away from it all”, here is your opportunity to pass the days lakeside, surrounded by colourful blooms and even more colourful locals.

Read more: 10 Lakes in Europe you Must Visit

4. Bosnia & Herzegovina

As a whole the country of Bosnia & Herzegovina is often overlooked. While many travellers pass by to visit Mostar on a day trip from nearby Dubrovnik (in Croatia), I can say with absolute certainty that this country deserves much more than a day trip. A few years ago I spent a week with a local family in Blagaj, a small town outside of Mostar. Sure, it was Mostar that first caught my attention but after road tripping around the small country in the Balkan Peninsula, I realised that the beauty lie far beyond the scenery. The hospitality, food, culture and overload of friendship is what made this country so worth visiting. Do yourself a favour and stay a while.

5. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Cesky Krumlov takes centre stage as the Czech Republic’s most charming town and certainly one of Europe’s all-time most loved small town destinations. In the summer time this little town, a short bus ride from Prague, is bursting with travellers from all corners of the globe. However the story is much different in winter when the crowds are long gone, snow often lands on the town and creates a magical winter getaway. Regardless of the season, this town is so charming that it will without a doubt take your breath away.

Read more: The 20 Most Charming Places you Must Visit in Europe !

6. The Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds were on my bucket list for so long that when I actually got there, I felt like I knew the places already. The area itself is in rural England and named after the collection of small towns and estates, built mostly with distinctive local yellow limestone. The area is best enjoyed over a week of road-tripping from town to town through the summer, so be sure to plan on staying a while!

Read more: Visiting the Cotswolds, England

7. Oulanka National Park, Finland

Years ago I had the pleasure of visiting Finland, which had long been on my radar thanks to inspiration from the Chronicles of Narnia and my undying desire to find a place so magical in real life. I found just that in  Oulanka National Park in the early winter, covered in a layer of snow and slippery ice (I learnt the hard way!) If you are more of an outdoors traveller and looking to go off the grid, Lapland is the perfect setting to do so and a great introduction to typical Finnish culture when you begin to venture more North.

Read more: These photos prove Finland should be your next travel destination!

8. Colmar, France

When you think of picture-perfect towns in Europe,  Colmar is often one of the first to come to mind. Located on the Eastern border of France to Germany, Colmar has a unique blend of Franco-German architecture, culture and culinary delights. Whilst here be sure to hire a bike and hit the open road – you will find you have endless vineyards and bike trails at your disposal.

Read more: 14 Fairy tale Towns in Europe you Must Visit

9. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

As far as fairytales go, visiting the one and only “Disney castle” in real life is about as fantastically pinch-yourself as moments come. Europe is full of beautifully restored castles and many of those can be found in Germany. Check out these  fairytale castles to visit in Germany  if you’re looking to tick a handful off your bucket list!

Read more: The Best Castles to Visit in Europe

10. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is by far one of my all time favourite cities in Europe and has been for the past five years of periodical visits. Although relatively “discovered” nowadays (thanks to a huge influx of expats and tourism boost), I still think Budapest is somewhat underrated. This city has it all – a fascinating history, incredible architecture to rival the likes of Paris, beautiful stately interiors and some of the friendliest locals you will find in a capital city. Believe me when I say this city will steal your heart.

Read more: 20 Places you Must Visit in Budapest

Read more: The Central Europe Trifecta: Visiting Prague, Vienna & Budapest

11. Road Trip in Ireland

Starting from Dublin, I made my way to the West Coast of Ireland by rental car on my first ever visit to the country and have not stopped singing its’ praises ever since. Ireland is everything you imagined it would be – green, rainy, full of charming locals (who, yes, love the pub!) and  so  much more. One of the best things I have ever done is take a solo road trip through Ireland and suffice it to say it was one of the most jaw-dropping places I have seen in Europe, particularly when reaching the wild, rugged West Coast.

Read more: 8 Places you Must Visit in Ireland

12. The Algarve, Portugal

I don’t think I ever made it a secret that Portugal’s Algarve is one of my favourite “vacation” destinations in Europe. Somehow the South of Portugal has kept all of its charm in the past couple of decades of globalization and despite being a hot spot for tourists, it still has a strong influx of Portuguese holidaymakers that make it feel like a more authentic coastal getaway (as opposed to say, the likes of Ibiza?) So if you find yourself looking for a summer vacay in Europe I would highly recommend Portugal and its prize possession: The Algarve.

Read more: 8 Places you Must Visit in Portugal

13. Annecy, France

After visiting  Annecy with my boyfriend last year we both became convinced that there is perhaps no other city or town in Europe quite as charming, picturesque and absolutely breath-taking. This city is full of charm at every turn and to put the icing on the cake, is surrounded by water and water activities every which way you look (hello peddle boating!)

Read more: 14 Fairy tale towns in Europe you Must Visit

14. Brasov, Romania

If you’re a sucker (like me) for the “off-the-beaten-path” description of a place, you will fall head over heels for this small city at the centre of Transylvania, Romania. The town of Brasov is one of my  must-visit places in Romania  thanks to its proximity to the charming towns and castles nearby, all giving first-timers to Romania an insight into just how beautiful this country is.

Read more: Visiting Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania

15. Scottish Highlands

There’s one trip I would love to live over and over again and that’s my short time in the Scottish Highlands. For some reason (unbeknownst to me), I am obsessed with the culture of Scotland. The traditions, intriguing food and endless history immediately had me wrapped up in a time warp. Plus, you can ride on the Hogwarts Express. YES, you read correct. The real Hogwarts Express.

Read more: 10 Places you Must Visit in Scotland

16. St Petersburg, Russia

Everyone knows I’m obsessed with  St Petersburg (or at least, everyone who has been reading World of Wanderlust for any decent amount of time). Following my obsession with Russian History, I booked a trip to Russia to see everything I studied first hand. I’ve got to say The Hermitage Museum is hands down the most impressive building I have ever stepped foot it, let alone the myriad of collections that line the endless hallways (you could spend weeks in that place and still not see it all). Peterhof was another highlight, particularly in the summertime as the weather allows for a walk through Peter the Great’s mischievous gardens (with “trick” fountains – what a cool guy). If ever there were a city that deserves more recognition as a “must visit” city in Europe, this is it. St Petersburg is up there with Paris and London for me, as one of the all time greats (and Peter would be oh so  agreeable).

Read more: St Petersburg Bucket list

Read more: Moscow Bucket list

17. Stockholm, Sweden

I never thought that I would visit  Stockholm  after hearing from friends about how expensive it is to visit. “Beautiful, but expensive” they would all say in a similar fashion. Then one day when my mum booked a trip to visit me whilst I was living in Berlin, I decided to take her to this very city (splitting the costs) and because ABBA are her all-time life obssession. This city surprised me with its old world charm and yes, the expense was still a rude shock (!!) But all in all I would never take those few days back for anything – this city is a true gem of Scandinavia.

Read more: Top 10 Things to do in Stockholm

18. Lake Bled, Slovenia

I read about Lake Bled for years before ever thinking I would visit. It has often been described as the most romantic lake in Europe and to that I would have to agree – picturesque, quiet, serene. If you find yourself travelling with a loved one through central Europe, Lake Bled is a must visit.

19. Skiing in Zermatt, Switzerland

Being a beginner skiier at best, I never imaged I would find myself on the slopes of  Zermatt  – known to be one of Europe’s most impressive ski slopes that crosses from the Swiss Alps in to the Italian Alps. Yup, its that big! But when I did make my way to Zermatt last year with my boyfriend, I was determined to give it a crack and improve my skills (or lack thereof), simultaneously exploring some of the most beautiful surrounds in Switzerland. This trip quite literally took my breath away (as in I ran out of breath, fell over more times than I could count and very nearly camped the night on the mountain to avoid any more bruises) and I would say for any skiiers or ski enthusiasts, this is a must visit location.

Read more: The 10 Best Cities & Towns in Switzerland  

20. Road Trip in Wales

When I told my Brittish friends I would be road tripping from England through to the  South of Wales  to explore the coastline, they all asked me one thing: “why?” To them Wales was so completely off their radar that it might as well have been on another continent all together but for me, the isolation was precisely what I was after. It turns out Wales had a similar effect on me as did Ireland – complete and total calmness. I urge you to rent a car, hit the open road and venture off without care or regard for where you end up.

Read more: Enjoying the Journey in Wales

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

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

After reading your article, we have moved Lake Bled, Lake Como, Positano and Bosnia & Herzegovina to the top of our bucket list.Cesky Krumlov is also on our radar – we would love to visit it this summer. Thanks again Brooke and safe travels. Martina x x.

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51 Most Beautiful Places in Europe

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Europe is a culturally rich and aesthetically stunning continent. There is an endless supply of gorgeous landscapes, from the icy Alps to the turquoise waves of the Mediterranean, with plenty of captivating cities dotted in between. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just want a romantic vacation, you can find what you’re looking for in Europe.

Travelers may spend days discovering the alleys and corners of historic urban centers, trying regional specialties, and learning about the heritage of each city they visit. Adventurers and nature lovers may uncover lesser-known gems among untamed coasts and jagged cliffs — perhaps even a fairytale castle will make an appearance.

No traveler should miss the chance to visit Europe, whether it is to fulfill a lifelong dream or expand their horizons. So, here is our list of the most beautiful places in Europe .

1 – The Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites , a mountain range in northeastern Italy, are a spectacle of nature offering a harmonious blend of scenery and cultural heritage.

Cortina d’Ampezzo serves as the perfect gateway to the Dolomites, with easy access to the majestic Monte Cristallo and the striking Cinque Torri rock formations, both offering climbing and sightseeing opportunities.

Alternatively, embark on an adventure beginning at the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a symbol of the Dolomites, where a 10 kilometer trail provides panoramic views during a roughly 4-hour hike.

No visit to the Dolomites is complete without experiencing the tranquil Lake Braies, perfect for leisurely walks or capturing memorable photos.

To fully appreciate the grandeur of the Dolomites, balance your itinerary between the exhilarating exploration of its towering peaks and the serene enjoyment of its enchanting towns.

The Dolomites are a destination that caters to hikers, climbers, and those seeking the sublime beauty of nature, ensuring an encounter with the outdoors that is truly indelible.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Italy , Best Hiking Trails in the World , Best Day Trips from Milan

2 – Kravica Waterfalls, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Situated in the serene Herzegovina region, the Kravica Waterfalls present a breathtaking display of nature with their 25-meter high cascades stretching 120 meters wide, set against a backdrop of greenery.

Conveniently located near the city of Ljubuški, visitors can easily drive to the site and park nearby, followed by a brief walk to the falls. A popular summer destination, Kravica invites guests to swim in its refreshing waters or relax by the water’s edge. For a unique perspective, consider a boat ride around the waterfalls.

Don’t miss the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of this natural marvel. Just a short distance away, you can explore Cross Mountain and St James Church in Međugorje, both offering historical insights and tranquil settings. Kravica Waterfalls is a perfect spot for those looking to connect with nature and find a sense of peace.

3 – Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher , towering up to 214 meters over the Atlantic, form one of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal wonders along County Clare’s rugged edge.

Stretching 14 kilometers, they offer ocean vistas from Doolin to Hags Head. Key spots include O’Brien’s Tower for sweeping views, the Doolin Cliff Walk for an immersive experience, and the Visitor Center with its educational exhibits on the cliffs’ natural history.

The area is also a haven for flora and birdlife, such as puffins. Safety is paramount, so stick to marked trails and be prepared for quick weather changes.

Nearby, explore the Burren National Park ‘s karst landscape or enjoy ferry trips to the Aran Islands . The Cliffs of Moher are a popular attraction, so make sure to book tours in advance.

Read More: A Guide to Choosing the Best Cliffs of Moher Tour , Best Day Trips from Dublin

4 – Vila Franca do Campo, Azores

Vila Franca do Campo , once the capital of São Miguel Island in the Azores , invites you to an experience rich in natural beauty and cultural history. The town is a hub for over 27 nature tours that showcase the lush Azorean landscapes and diverse wildlife.

A must-visit is the Islet of Vila Franca, just a boat ride away, offering a peaceful lagoon for snorkeling and marine exploration. Immerse yourself in the area’s historical charm with a visit to the Chapel of Our Lady of Peace, and don’t miss the chance to indulge in local treats like ‘Queijadas da Vila.’

For a comprehensive experience, consider one of the approximately 30 full-day tours that delve into the island’s captivating land, sea, and culture. Vila Franca do Campo is truly a gateway to the Azores’ natural wonders and adventures.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in The Azores , Best Islands in Europe to Visit this Summer

5 – Kirkjufell, Iceland

Iceland’s most photographed mountain, Kirkjufell, stands out with its striking shape reminiscent of a church steeple, rising 463 meters above the Snæfellsnes Peninsula .

Nearby, the enchanting Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall offers a perfect photo opportunity with the mountain as its backdrop. For adventurers, there are hiking trails around Kirkjufell that promise panoramic views of the region’s untouched beauty.

In the winter months, the mountain is a favored location for viewing the Aurora Borealis, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the night sky. However, the summit trek is demanding, so it’s best to enjoy the mountain’s splendor from safer vantage points unless you’re an experienced hiker.

The quaint fishing village of Grundarfjörður is situated close by, providing a quaint starting point for exploring Kirkjufell and the peninsula’s other natural attractions. When planning your trip, consider the time of year, as the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation each season, each presenting a unique perspective of Kirkjufell.

No matter when you visit, the experience of this iconic Icelandic landmark will be unforgettable.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Iceland – The Ultimate Bucket List , Best Day Trips from Reykjavik

6 – Moravian Fields, Czech Republic

The Moravian Fields, often referred to as the Moravian Tuscany, captivate visitors with their rolling hills and colorful patchwork of crops in the Czech Republic . This region is celebrated for its rich lands and serene beauty that changes with the seasons.

Delve into the local wine culture with a tasting tour, taking advantage of the fertile soils that produce some of the Czech Republic’s most esteemed wines. Photographers will find their haven in the “Moravian Tuscany”, where the landscape’s elegance has garnered international acclaim, including winning photographs in the Travel Photographer of the Year awards .

A visit to Moravian Slovakia, close to the fields, offers a cultural immersion with its traditions, costumes, and customs. The best times to visit are during spring, when the fields are a lush green, or in autumn, when they take on golden tones.

7 – Sunset Rock, Meteora, Greece

When you visit  Meteora , be sure not to miss the experience of Sunset Rock, also known as Psaropetra lookout. This vantage point offers one of the most magical vistas, as the setting sun bathes the monasteries and rock formations in a golden light.

Nearby, you’ll find the Monasteries of Meteora, including the Great Meteoron Monastery, the largest of them all. The Holy Trinity Monastery is another must-see, with its panoramic views of the area. The region is also crisscrossed with hiking trails that lead to various sightseeing points, including views of the Roussanou Monastery.

Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration as the sky’s changing colors provide a dramatic backdrop to the ancient monasteries. Take time to reflect and embrace the serenity that Meteora offers; it’s an excellent opportunity for spiritual connection.

A trip to Meteora is truly incomplete without witnessing the celestial spectacle from Sunset Rock — a memory that will linger with you long after your visit.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Greece , The Most Beautiful Places in the World

8 – Lake Bled, Slovenia

On a journey to Lake Bled in northwestern Slovenia, you’ll find yourself in a setting that seems straight out of a fairy tale. At the heart of this Alpine paradise is Bled Castle , a medieval fortress that stands majestically on a precipice, offering you panoramic views and a chance to delve into the history of Slovenia’s oldest castle.

As you wander around the lake, the surrounding nature trails invite you to explore the lush greenery. These paths, such as those leading to Ojstrica and Mala Osojnica, provide vantage points for capturing the iconic scenes of the lake with its central island.

A must-visit is Bled Island, situated in the middle of the lake, where you can arrive in style aboard a traditional wooden pletna boat. Once there, explore the pilgrimage church and perhaps ring the wishing bell, a local custom believed to fulfill your wishes.

No trip to Bled would be complete without tasting the famous cream cake that has become synonymous with the area. And when the weather is warm, take advantage of the pristine waters by swimming and enjoying the natural beauty that Lake Bled offers.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Ljubljana

9 – Devil’s Bridge, Germany

When you venture to Kromlauer Park in Germany, the Devil’s Bridge, or Rakotzbrücke, is a must-see attraction. Built in the 19th century, this architecturally brilliant bridge was designed to form a perfect circle with its reflection in the water, creating an enchanting visual effect that has captivated visitors and photographers.

It’s important to note that while you can admire the Rakotzbrücke up close and capture its beauty from various angles, crossing the bridge is not allowed in order to protect its integrity for future visitors to enjoy.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Germany

10 – Las Salinas de Torrevieja, South Alicante

When exploring the South Alicante region of Spain, you’ll discover the magnificent Las Salinas de Torrevieja . This natural wonder is not only a feast for the eyes but an essential part of the area’s history and economy.

Las Salinas de Torrevieja is known for its striking Pink Lake, a result of the algae and microorganisms living in this saline environment. The vivid color contrasts beautifully against the blue skies and the white salt piles that border the lake. Remember to bring your camera to capture the surreal landscape.

Additionally, the Salt Flats provide insight into the traditional salt extraction processes that have been a part of the region’s industry for years.

While the Pink Lake is the main highlight, you’re also close to the Laguna de la Mata, another salt lake, but with green waters. If you’re up for an educational aspect, visiting the nearby Sea and Salt Museum might pique your interest as it delves into the history of Torrevieja’s salt.

Read more: Fun Things to Do in Alicante

11 – Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

When you visit Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a must-see natural wonder on the Antrim Coast, renowned for its hexagonal basalt columns that are the result of ancient volcanic activity.

Begin your exploration at the state-of-the-art National Trust Visitor Centre to learn about the site’s geology, ecology, and local legends before admiring the thousands of interlocking columns. Don’t miss the nearby ruins of Dunluce Castle, dramatically perched on the cliffside, or the chance to walk the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, with amazing ocean views.

The best times to visit the Giant’s Causeway are early morning or at dusk, when you might have the site to yourself and can witness the landscape in the most beautiful light. Located between Portrush and Ballycastle, the Causeway is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with parking available near the site.

To fully enjoy the coastal scenery and the enchanting atmosphere of this historic place, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in the UK , Game of Thrones Tours from Dublin

12 – Fjords, Norway

Norway ‘s fjords are among Europe’s most magnificent places to explore. These geological wonders, with deep blue pools and high cliffs, are simply breathtaking.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site Geirangerfjord greets you with its towering mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls, especially the Seven Sisters Waterfall with its seven parallel runs. Ferry rides are a great way to see these sites up close.

Next to Geirangerfjord is the tiny and spectacular Naerøyfjord, where you can explore the green depths on peaceful kayak tours .

Finally, the tiny but still spectacular Trollfjord in Lofoten impresses with its sheer cliffs and tight entry. A sail along this fjord lets you glimpse the surrounding mountains and spot eagles.

13 – Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is a destination that epitomizes historical charm. It’s unique geography, resembling an inverted ‘Y,’ provides an extensive shoreline and ensures that each lakeside town has its own distinctive appeal.

In Bellagio , often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Lake,’ you’ll find yourself wandering through quaint cobbled streets and browsing chic boutiques. Make sure to visit the beautiful villas such as Villa Melzi , with loads of beautiful terraced gardens.

Bella Vista lives up to its name, offering ‘beautiful views’ from its hilltop position. Here, you’ll be enveloped by the peaceful vistas of Lake Como.

In Tremezzo, you’ll be mesmerized by the botanical splendor of its gardens, home to more than 500 plant species, including azaleas and orchids, enveloped in a backdrop of luxury.

The charming town of Menaggio invites you to experience Lake Como’s natural wonder. Relax along the elegant shore, dine in a lakeside café, or take a walk on the trails.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Lake Como , Best Lake Como Boat Tours

14 – Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Traveling to the Swiss Alps will bring you to one of Europe’s most beautiful environments, replete with adorable towns perched on mountain peaks and lakes with distinct charms.

The Montreux Jazz Festival highlights the region’s musical heritage, while cruises on Lake Geneva reveal Switzerland’s biggest Alpine lake in all its glory.

Jungfraujoch, “The Top of Europe,” is a must-see. A train trip from Zurich climbs the slope, showing spectacular views you’ll never forget.

Seeing the Matterhorn, with its 4,478-meter pyramid form, is essential. At its foot, Zermatt is a pleasant hamlet where you may rest and admire this iconic mountain.

Don’t forget to take a ride on the Bernina Express for the perfect Alpine atmosphere.

15 – Faroe Islands, Denmark

The Faroe Islands are a treasure in Denmark. On the east coast of Streymoy Island, Tórshavn, the capital, welcomes you to its charming port. While here, explore the National Gallery and discover a stunning collection of 2,500 Faroese art items.

Hike around Sørvágsvatn Lake, the biggest on the islands, to enjoy quiet views, or explore the routes to the Kallur Lighthouse and a James Bond relic on Kalsoy Island.

Not to miss is the Gasadalur settlement on Vagar Island and the remarkable Múlafoss Waterfall.

With its vivid scenes and tiny settlements, the Faroe Islands combine Nordic charm and untouched majesty.

16 – Plitvice Lake, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a natural wonder in Croatia’s heartland. Cascading blue lakes connected by waterfalls and surrounded by thick forests with deer, bears, wolves, boars, and birds are what makes this magical place so famous.

After entering the park, you’ll see the Lower Lakes in a steep limestone valley. The park’s wooden walks provide a close-up view of the dynamic water system. Great Waterfall, commonly known as Veliki Slap, is the a tour highlight.

Zagreb and Zadar have frequent buses to the park’s gates, making day excursions easy. While visiting this natural treasure observe the park’s rules to preserve it for future generations. For navigation, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your camera to photograph the unbelievable scenery.

Read More: Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik , Best Day Trips from Split

17 – The Bastei, Germany

The Bastei, a natural beauty in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, has drawn people for generations. This water-eroded rock structure, formed over a million years ago, is Saxon Switzerland National Park’s showpiece.

You can experience the park without a long commute thanks to its accessibility, and take a 40-kilometer drive southeast from Dresden or a day trip from Prague to reach the Bastei.

The Elbe River views from the Bastei Bridge, a construction linking the tall rocks, are mesmerizing, and photographing this amazing creation from 305 meters above the river will capture its spirit.

Rathen, a picturesque village with delicious food, is a great place to start or finish your journey.

18 – Matka Canyon, Macedonia

Matka Canyon is a stunning getaway near North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje , perfect for a day of relaxation and adventure. The canyon’s closeness to the city makes it easy to enjoy nature’s splendor along the Treska River.

The canyon offers activities for all interests and degrees of experience. Enjoy a boat ride to discover the canyon’s hidden gems, or kayak at your own pace to experience nature. Hiking to medieval monasteries combines exercise and culture, while explorers may encounter the canyon’s caverns, including Vrelo Cave, one of the world’s deepest underwater caves.

Home to endemic fauna and flora, Matka Canyon is a natural marvel to be respected and preserved on a visit. You can easily access Matka Canyon from Skopje by bus and automobile with free parking available.

19 – Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Greece

Zante, or Zakynthos , is a beautiful island in Greece. Its location in the middle of the Mediterranean makes it home to some of the world’s most famous beaches.

Navagio Beach , often called Shipwreck Beach, is a gem that has picture-perfect blue seas and immaculate white sands.

You can only reach the beach by boat , but the scenery and towering cliffs will make the journey worthwhile.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Zakynthos , Best Boat Tours in Zakynthos – All you Need to Know , Best Greek Islands to Visit Right Now , Best Islands in Europe to Visit this Summer

20 – The Val D’orcia, Tuscany, Italy

Val d’Orcia, the heart of Tuscany, perfectly captures the essence of the Tuscan landscape with its rolling hills, cypress trees, and sun-soaked fields.

Essential stops include Pienza , an “ideal city” of the Renaissance, where you can stroll through the streets and admire influential architectural designs. In Montalcino , not only can you indulge in the renowned Brunello di Montalcino wine, but you can also explore the imposing fortress that lets you see the sprawling vineyards.

The captivating landscapes of Val d’Orcia are best experienced in scenic drives along the roads that connect towns like Pienza, San Quirico d’Orcia, and Chianciano . Each turn reveals new spots of golden-hued hills, which are beautiful under the sun setting.

As you wander through these timeless landscapes and enchanting towns, it’s easy to see why Val d’Orcia has inspired artists and travelers for centuries. Your experience here is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Read More: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Tuscany

21 – Gorges du Verdon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France

Nestled in the picturesque Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, the Gorges Du Verdon presents a natural spectacle as Europe’s largest canyon, drawing outdoor lovers and adventure seekers to its landscapes.

The Verdon River has sculpted a magnificent canyon over 25 kilometers long with depths reaching up to 700 meters, featuring turquoise-green waters that are perfect for kayaking. Along the rim, well-marked hiking trails offer spectacular views of the canyon’s grandeur.

Water activities in the Gorges Du Verdon are plentiful, with kayaking and canoeing offering a tranquil way to navigate the calmer parts of the river, while the limestone cliffs challenge climbers with thrilling routes.

When visiting, the Route des Crêtes is a must-do, allowing you to circle the canyon by car or bike and stop at numerous lookouts for panoramic vistas. Meanwhile, the Lac de Sainte-Croix provides a peaceful spot where you can relax on the lake shores or enjoy a leisurely pedal boat ride on the serene waters.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in France

22 – Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen , in the Bernese Alps, is known as the valley of 72 waterfalls, including Staubbach and Trümmelbach.

With automobile, rail, and aircraft options, Lauterbrunnen is easy to reach. Visitors may take in the incredible scenery from the Kirche Lauterbrunnen, and Wengwald, where nature coincides with panoramic beauty.

Hiking routes connect the valley to Wengen and Stechelberg, showing its natural beauty. Adventurers may ride Europe’s highest altitude train to the Jungfraujoch, or take a cable car to the Schilthorn to visit the 007 James Bond Lair Viewpoint. Paragliding at Lauterbrunnen gives a fantastic aerial perspective of the alpine environment.

Enjoy Lauterbrunnen’s beauty at your own speed, whether it’s enjoying coffee at a cozy café or trekking in the mountains. This jewel invites you to experience Switzerland at its best.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Interlaken

23 – Blue Eye, Albania

The Blue Eye, or Syri i Kaltër in Albanian, is a natural karst spring located near Muzinë in Vlorë County. Inviting visitors to bask in its ethereal beauty, this marvel of nature is conveniently reached from Saranda . Located 22 kilometers away, it allows for an easy integration into a trip that might also include stops at the historical towns of Gjirokastra.

What sets the Blue Eye apart is its captivating appearance, with a hypnotic deep blue center that seamlessly transitions into a vivid turquoise, all cradled within a forest. Despite the cold water, which maintains a near-constant temperature, it offers a refreshing experience on a warm day.

Prepare your camera to capture the striking contrast between the clear blue center and the surrounding green waters. For those seeking adventure, a diving excursion might be tempting, but be aware of the spring’s undiscovered depths.

24 – Ille-Sur-Têt, Pyrenees mountains, France

Ille-sur-Têt , in the Pyrenees, is a gateway to distinctive landscapes and geological treasures. Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt, an organ pipe-shaped rock formation, is barely a stone’s throw from the town.

The town core is a short drive from these magnificent natural creations. Hiking in Ille-sur-Têt’s distinctive landscape is fun for all levels of fitness, with paths for beginners and experts.

The warm sunshine highlights the Orgues’ rich colors and textures, providing a magnificent scene against the Pyrenees. Early morning and late afternoon visits are especially peaceful. Make sure to bring your camera.

With its natural beauty and lovely atmosphere, Ille-sur-Têt will ensure your Pyrenees vacation is unforgettable.

25 – Seine River, Paris, France

The Seine River embodies the quintessential Parisian charm and serves as the historic lifeblood of Paris . As you meander along its banks, you are treading the same paths that have inspired countless artists, poets, and musicians throughout history.

As you approach the river, the majestic Eiffel Tower , with its iconic iron latticework, stands tall. You can admire this emblem of Paris from a river cruise or directly from the banks. Further along, you may find yourself in the presence of the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral , a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture with its intricate façades and storied past.

Nearby, the iconic glass pyramid of the Louvre Museum signals your arrival at the world’s largest art museum and a historic monument in its own right. This cultural treasure is home to the Mona Lisa and countless other artistic masterpieces.

A journey along the Seine would not be complete without a boat tour . Various companies offer cruises that allow you to relax and absorb the rich tapestry of the city’s history as it unfolds along the riverbanks. In the evening, the illuminated edifices and bridges cast a serene glow over the water, providing a romantic and tranquil view of the city.

A visit to Paris is truly perfected by the experiences offered by the Seine. Each bend of the river unveils a fresh vignette of Parisian life, revealing the timeless appeal that awaits your discovery.

Read More: Seine River Cruises in Paris , Best Seine River Lunch Cruises , Best Seine River Dinner Cruises in Paris , Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Paris ,  Romantic Things to Do in Paris for Couples

26 – Douro Valley, Portugal

The Douro Valley is world-renowned for its wine-making tradition. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Valley has exquisite terraced vineyards that have grown wine for over two millennia.

Vineyard tours are crucial to Douro Valley experiences. The Quintas, or wine estates, spanning the terrain invite tourists to enjoy their famous port and vinho verde while learning about their history. During harvest season, you may participate in traditional wine-making.

A peaceful Douro River tour provides a new perspective on the valley, highlighting canyons and indigenous animals.

Douro Valley vistas change with the seasons, creating a tapestry year-round. Keep your camera ready to capture the valley’s ever-changing beauty, from spring’s greenery to autumn’s gold.

Read More: Best Wine Regions in Portugal , Best Wine Tours and Tastings in Porto

27 – Keukenhof Garden, Netherlands

Spring brings an amazing mosaic of hues to Lisse ‘s most renowned attraction, the Keukenhof Garden , often known as the Garden of Europe. This is one of the world’s biggest flower gardens, with over 7 million colorful flower bulbs growing.

Keukenhof is best visited in April when in bloom. Here, you may admire tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils, among other stunning flowers. Explore the displays, themed gardens, and inspiring presentations. The garden also has restaurants, a playground, and a little zoo to enjoy.

If you want to continue your flowery excursion, the adjacent flower fields are amazing. The fields are beautiful before the harvest, and are best experienced by bike or walking trips.

Read More: Keukenhof Tulips Gardens Tickets Price – All you Need to Know

28 – Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast , set along the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a treasure trove of Mediterranean splendor.

In the town of Amalfi, you can explore the historic cathedral and lively piazza. Positano charms visitors with its cliffside homes and the inviting Spiaggia Grande beach, while Ravello offers the Villa Rufolo and its panoramic sea views.

For adventure seekers, the Path of the Gods provides a hike with unforgettable coastal vistas. In Vietri Sul Mare , you can discover exquisite handcrafted ceramics to take home as souvenirs. The cozy restaurants of Cetara are perfect for tasting fresh seafood, and the bakeries in Minori will tempt you with their delightful pastries.

Experience the tranquility of Furore, home to Italy’s only fjord. Don’t forget to unwind with a glass of limoncello on the pebbled beaches, capturing the essence of the Amalfi Coast lifestyle.

Read More: Fun Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast , Best Amalfi Coast Boat Tours , Best Amalfi Coast Tours

29 – The Old Man of Storr, Scotland

While on the Isle of Skye , you can’t miss seeing The Old Man of Storr. One of the most famous and iconic natural landmarks in Scotland, this striking rock formation is part of the Trotternish ridge and was formed by a massive ancient landslip. Today, it’s one of the most photographed landscapes in the world.

The area around the Old Man of Storr is a popular hiking destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the sea and the rest of the Isle of Skye. The hike to the Old Man of Storr is relatively accessible for most people, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

Before you go, always check the weather, and be respectful of the natural environment to make sure your experience is truly Scottish: rough, grand and unforgettable.

30 – Zlatni Rat, Croatia

Zlatni Rat in Croatia is often named as one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Situated on Brač Island , this beach is famous for the way it changes form according to wind and currents.

The area is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering excellent conditions for windsurfing, kite surfing, and swimming.

Zlatni Rat, with its magnificent vistas of the Adriatic Sea, is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Europe – The Ultimate Bucket List , Best Day Trips from Split

31 – Palácio da Pena, Sintra, Portugal

The Palácio da Pena welcomes visitors to Sintra with its towering presence. It’s one of the finest examples of 19th-century Romanticism in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the cultural landscape of Sintra.

Palácio da Pena’s design comes from its Manueline, Moorish, and Renaissance styles, reflecting the rich and varied influences that characterize Portuguese history and culture.

Brightly painted yellow and red terraces provide panoramic views of Sintra’s verdant countryside. On clear days, the palace offers views of Lisbon from the height of the Sintra Mountains.

Inside, explore the monastery’s marble and alabaster chapel and Manueline cloister. Palácio da Pena is a journey back in time and a glimpse of Sintra’s unique appeal.

Read More: Pena Palace Sintra Tickets – Everything you Should Know , Best Castles in Europe to Visit Once in a Lifetime

32 – Oia, Santorini, Greece

Oia , Santorini ‘s northernmost settlement, is a sight of whitewashed homes with blue domes overlooking the Aegean Sea.

The blue domed churches are unique to Oia. Snap a photo in front of the famous Three Bells of Fira or seek out the lesser-known churches scattered around town for a quieter moment.

No visit to Oia is complete without wandering the narrow streets lined with shops and galleries. Indulge in some retail therapy or just take in the unique crafts and artworks on offer.

Descend the steps to Amoudi Bay to enjoy fresh seafood tavernas and a view of the sheer cliff face above. Make sure to also sample distinctive Santorinian wines. Opt for a guided wine tasting or simply enjoy a relaxed afternoon with some glasses and local cuisine.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Santorini , Best Boat Tours in Santorini

33 – Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany

Standing atop a rugged hill in Bavaria, the Neuschwanstein Castle seems like something out of a fairy tale.

Neuschwanstein is only about 90 minutes by car or tour bus from Munich, making it easy to get there on a day tour. The picturesque town of Füssen or the peaceful Forggensee lake nearby makes the trip even better.

Commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and as an homage to Richard Wagner, the castle is renowned for its beauty.

Its detailed craftsmanship is a sight to behold, especially in the Singer’s Hall and King’s bedroom. Don’t miss the chance to take a picture with the castle in the background from Queen Mary’s Bridge (Marienbrücke).

Another famous building with ties to King Ludwig II is Hohenschwangau Castle , which is close by and a popular draw.

Remember that you need to book your tickets to Neuschwanstein Castle ahead of time since it’s such a popular attraction.

Read More: Neuschwanstein Castle Tours from Munich – All you Need to Know , Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets Price – Everything you Need to Know

34 – Mont Saint-Michel, France

Mont Saint-Michel is a breathtaking medieval stronghold located on a small rocky island in Normandy. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of France’s most iconic landmarks, known for its natural beauty, architectural ingenuity, and historical significance.

The island is best known for the spectacular and well-preserved Norman Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Michel at its peak, surrounded by the winding streets and convoluted architecture of the medieval town below.

Since it’s a popular attraction, early morning or late evening visits are calmer. Make sure to check tidal timings ahead of your visit.

While in the area, visit nearby towns such as Brittany and Normandy . A historical journey to Normandy’s D-Day beaches is equally worthwhile.

Read More: Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris – Price & Tips

35 – Aphrodite’s Rock, Cyprus

Aphrodite’s Rock is a must-see on your Cypriot vacation for its romance and history.

Located on Paphos-Limassol’s shoreline, the formation is imbued with mythological meaning. Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, may have been born there.

See the amazing geological formations and swim around the rock, which local legend says will grant perpetual beauty. Aphrodite’s Rock is accessible by the ancient B6 route from Limassol (Lemesos) to Paphos , which provides amazing views.

If you have time, visit Kouklia to see the remains of an Aphrodite temple. Paphos, a short drive away, has several historical monuments, including the Paphos Archaeological Park with its beautiful Roman mosaics and well maintained remains.

Read More: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Cyprus

36 – Ioannina, Epirus, Greece

Ioannina , a jewel of Epirus in northeastern Greece, is rich in natural beauty, history, culture, and leisure.

Walk among the ancient town’s cobblestone streets, well-preserved architecture and silver craftsmanship businesses which exhibit the city’s silver working past. Visit the Ioannina Archaeological Museum to learn more about the region, with rooms covering 250,000 years of human habitation in the area until late antiquity.

Enjoy a trip to Ioannina’s serene Lake Pamvotida to escape the city. A boat ride takes you to the lake’s island, where charming shops and cafés await.

Ioannina also leads to beautiful Epirus villages, where mountains and woods frame stone-built dwellings and historic roads only a short drive away.

37 – Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, or Blue Mosque , will enchant you as you wander through Istanbul ‘s historic center. Built between 1609 and 1616 under Ahmed I, it’s an Ottoman masterpiece.

Over 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles decorate the inside, while 260 stained glass windows illuminate the mosque with a peaceful, ethereal glow.

Another famous Istanbul building, Hagia Sophia , with its huge dome and rich history, is a short walk from the Blue Mosque. The mosque complex is next to the Hippodrome of Constantinople, a historic chariot racing venue. The nearby Basilica Cistern , with its column forest and peaceful fish-filled waters, is an underground marvel.

Since the mosque is still operating, make sure to visit outside of the daily prayer hours, especially Friday noon services.

Read More: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Istanbul , Best Places to Visit in Turkey

38 – Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

Lagos , in southern Portugal’s Algarve, is a gorgeous beach getaway with a great mixture of history and nature. Praia Dona Ana, with its blue waves and golden rocks, is perfect for a peaceful swim or sunbathing.

The water tempts you to go kayak to incredible sights such as Benagil Cave . The cave’s entrance lets sunshine illuminate the water, making paddling to this natural marvel a magical experience.

On land you can visit Lagos’ old streets, where serene whitewashed houses and exquisite tiled pathways show its rich history. The town is active at night, so be sure to enjoy its restaurants and pubs.

Read More: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Lagos

39 – Bonifacio, Corsica, France

Bonifacio , on Corsica’s southern coast, greets you with its limestone cliffs, while its alleyways lead to the Genoese towers and the Bastion de l’Etendard, which holds a museum about the town’s history.

Your journey wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Staircase of the King of Aragon. This amazing cliffside attraction gives magnificent views of the lake below.

Take a short boat ride to Îles Lavezzi for a unique experience. Beautiful turquoise seas make this a great place for snorkeling and swimming.

Bonifacio’s marina is filled with yachts and charming eateries, where you can enjoy Corsican food while watching vessels enter and leave the port.

Another highlight is Plage du Petit Sperone, a peaceful beach with smooth sands and blue seas a short walk from town.

Read More: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Corsica , Best Boat Trips in Corsica with Map , Best Holiday Destinations

40 – Annecy Lake, Haute-Savoie, France

With its pure waters and charming surroundings, Annecy Lake in the French Alps is a tranquil refuge.

A highlight is undoubtedly a boat tour on Annecy Lake, one of the most picturesque ways of experiencing this magnificent wonder.

Swimming and stand-up paddleboarding are great ways to immerse yourself in the waters, while cycling around is a popular method for admiring the views. Meanwhile, the nearby mountains provide hiking and paragliding opportunities to see the region from above.

Make sure to explore Annecy Old Town, known as “Venice of the Alps”, with its cobblestone streets crossing over brightly colored canals.

41 – Grand Canal, Venice, Italy

An architectural and historical marvel, the Grand Canal winds its way through the heart of Venice . The bright facades of the Venetian palaces along the water’s edge make it a veritable living museum of the city’s architectural and historical treasures.

You’ll be able to see the Rialto Bridge , an engineering masterpiece that you absolutely must capture on camera. As you wander along the canal, be sure to get a glimpse of Ca’d’Oro, a magnificent specimen of flamboyant Gothic design.

Taking a leisurely gondola ride down the canal is a great way to get to know the area on a more personal level. A more practical alternative is to take a vaporetto, or water bus, which allows you to blend in with the residents while enjoying a tour of the canal.

You should not miss the opportunity to see the Grand Canal as the sun sets, when the marvels of Venice are accentuated under the glowing light.

Read More: Venice Boat Tours – Which one to Choose? , Gondola Rides in Venice Price – How Much Does it Cost? , The Best Gondola Rides in Venice , Fun Things to Do in Venice ,  Romantic Things to Do in Venice for Couples

42 – Lavender Fields, Provence, France

The lavender fields are Provence ‘s signature appeal, especially when the blossoms in June and August make these landscapes pop.

Some of the most famous areas to see the lavender fields include the Valensole Plateau, the Sault area, and the Luberon region. Each offers opportunities to explore the fields up close, with the Valensole Plateau being particularly renowned for its expansive and photogenic fields.

Lavender has been cultivated in Provence for centuries and is a significant part of the region’s agricultural and cultural heritage. You can shop for lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, and sachets, which celebrate the artisanal craftsmanship of the area.

Visitors to the lavender fields can further enjoy a range of activities, such as guided tours, lavender farm visits, and even distillery tours to learn about the process of extracting lavender oil.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Aix-en-Provence , Best Day Trips from Marseille , Best Day Trips from Nice

43 – Lapland, Finland

In Lapland , Finland’s northernmost area, you enter a winter wonderland. Lapland attracts nature lovers and explorers with its extensive subarctic wilderness, ski resorts, and natural phenomena like the midnight sun and Northern Lights.

Rovaniemi , Lapland’s capital, leads to this Arctic beauty. It’s the “official” abode of Santa Claus and a great site to see the aurora borealis.

The Santa Claus Village lets you traverse the Arctic Circle and send a letter with an Arctic Circle postmark, a fantasy for kids. Meanwhile, the Arktikum Museum teaches Nordic history and culture through fascinating exhibits.

Get close to friendly reindeer at local reindeer parks and have a beautiful woodland sleigh ride for a genuinely unique experience. You may even sleep in an igloo or ice hotel on ice beds.

For the more adventurous at heart, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are great ways to experience Lapland.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Rovaniemi , Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around the Globe

44 – Park Guell, Barcelona, Spain

Visiting Park Güell in Barcelona is like entering an artistic fantasy. The Antoni Gaudí-designed park is a bright example of Catalan Modernism and his unique style.

Explore the Greek Theatre’s beautiful mosaic Serpentine Benches for city views. Visit the Dragon Fountain at the Dragon Staircase, showcasing Gaudí’s Art Nouveau influence. Designed as a marketplace, the Hypostyle Room has 86 Doric columns and a trencadís-adorned domed roof.

You can also visit the Gaudí House Museum, the architect’s former house, to see his works and personal items.

A short stroll from Park Güell, the Carmel Bunkers provide 360° views of Barcelona. La Sagrada Familia , another Gaudí masterpiece, is also just a metro ride away. Park Güell and its surroundings offer a deep dive into the cultural legacy of Gaudí and Barcelona.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Barcelona , Best Tourist Attractions in Barcelona

45 – Maddalena Archipelago, Italy

The Maddalena Archipelago  is located in the Straits of Bonifacio near north-eastern Sardinia. This idyllic destination is made up of islands that boast some of the Mediterranean’s most stunning beaches and landscapes.

Maddalena, the biggest island, lures visitors with its attractive medieval town and beautiful beaches. Caprera Island , known as “Tahiti”, beckons with its blue seas. Secluded coves and quiet locations, reachable by boat , await anyone seeking calm or adventure in the archipelago.

Costa Smeralda, with its opulent resorts and crystal-clear waves, and Capo Testa, with its distinctive rock formations and antique lighthouse, are a boat ride away and make great day trips.

Unspoiled nature make the Maddalena Archipelago a stunning background for your European vacation, providing both leisure and adventure.

46 – Prohodna Cave, Bulgaria

Located in the very center of Bulgaria, Prohodna Cave is a natural marvel. This cave is renowned for its two enormous, eye-like holes in the ceiling, which give it a mystical appearance and have inspired its nickname, “The Eyes of God”.

The “Eyes of God” phenomenon is most striking when viewed from the inside of the cave, especially when the light conditions are just right.

Prohodna Cave is easily accessible, making it a popular destination for tourists, nature enthusiasts, and spelunkers. The cave is a tunnel-like formation, approximately 262 meters long, and is unique in that it has two entrances — a small one and a large one, allowing visitors to walk through it without the need for specialized equipment or extensive caving experience.

47 – The High Tatras, Slovakia

In Slovakia, the High Tatras stand as a testament to the natural beauty of its rugged peaks and scenic lakes.

The highest peak, Gerlachovský štít, soaring 2,655 meters high, awaits those who are brave enough reach its summit. For a less strenuous yet equally rewarding experience, the summit of Lomnicky štít is just a cable car ride away, standing at 2,633 meters.

The Štrbské Pleso lake not only offers a phenomenal sight but also acts as a welcoming gateway to the surrounding mountains, equipped with ample facilities for visitors. Wildlife enthusiasts have the chance to spot the elusive Tatra chamois, a unique goat-antelope indigenous to this region.

The High Tatras offers the spirit of adventure with the essence of tranquility, ensuring that whether you’re pushing your limits on a hike or enjoying the alpine ambiance from a summit cafe, the memories forged here will resonate with you long after you’ve left these lofty heights.

48 – Thingvellir National Park, Iceland

Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park is world-renowned for its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

A stunningly beautiful and historically significant destination, the park is characterized by lava fields, gorges and the Öxarárfoss Waterfall. Arguably the most famous feature of Thingvellir is the Silfra Fissure, which provides divers with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim between the tectonic plates in pristine waters.

During winter, guests may be lucky enough to see the hypnotic northern lights, which light up the sky and add to the magical ambiance of the park.

Hikers, scuba divers, and history aficionados may all find something to their liking in this park, thanks to its varied activity offerings.

Read More: Best National Parks in the World

49 – Trolltunga, Norway

In Norway, Trolltunga (“Troll’s Tongue”) is a jaw-dropping rock formation jutting out about 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet.

It’s a hike that rewards you with one of the most spectacular panoramas Norway has to offer. The trek to Trolltunga is demanding and takes about 10-12 hours round trip, but the view from the top is unmatched – showcasing steep cliffs, rugged terrain, and crystal-clear waters below.

Remember to prepare adequately before embarking on hikes in these areas, and check the weather as conditions can change rapidly.

50 – Dark Hedges, Ireland

The Dark Hedges provide a breathtaking Irish experience along the Wild Atlantic Way. Start in Ireland’s countryside and follow this intriguing trail to the rough shore, walking beneath the twisting trees as part of the path.

You’ll see rolling green hills, old rock formations, and the Atlantic Ocean as you walk the route, showcasing Ireland’s beautiful scenery.

Plan your vacation for late spring to early fall for the greatest hiking weather. Staying comfortable in Ireland’s unpredictable weather requires sturdy boots and waterproof clothing.

Read more: Game of Thrones Tours from Belfast

51 – Giverny Garden, France

When picturing iconic French landscapes, the Giverny Garden undoubtedly comes to mind. Located just a short trip from Paris in the Normandy region of France, Giverny is inextricably linked with the impressionist painter Claude Monet.

This horticultural jewel is where Monet’s legacy flourishes, with color and light interplaying in ways that once fueled the artist’s celebrated works.

The garden’s highlights include the Water Garden, with its famous green Japanese bridge and floating water lilies that mirror Monet’s distinct interpretation of the natural world. The Flower Garden is another spectacle, with its myriad flowers arranged in rows and separated by alleés, forming a living palette that bursts with color.

Read More: Day Trip to Giverny from Paris – Everything you Should Know

30 of the Best Places to Visit in Europe

12/16/2021 by Emily Becker 5 Comments

It’s pretty darn magical that in Europe you can take a road trip starting in one country and within just a few hours end up in another with a whole different culture and language. As an American, this still blows my mind and makes me want to explore more of the continent.

This is a list of some of the absolute best places to visit in Europe, and although it doesn’t include every country, I hope it helps you spice up your own European bucket list:

Table of Contents

30. Braga, Portugal

Most travelers who visit Portugal tend to stay in Lisbon and Porto, which are both incredible cities. However, those who skip the opportunity to visit Braga are definitely missing out on this underrated treasure. Braga is only a 45-minute drive north of Porto and has everything that makes northern Portugal a can’t-miss destination: towering and intricately designed cathedrals, rolling green hills, stunning gardens, and tons of history to uncover.

One of Braga’s most interesting attractions is the Image Museum , which was once a 14th-century medieval tower and now showcases the work of some of Portugal’s most renowned photographers. Also, climb to the top of the staircase at Bom Jesus de Braga to get one of the best views of the city.

29. Lagos, Portugal

Warm sunny beaches, surf hot spots, and a relaxed atmosphere await you in Lagos. One of Portugal’s coolest places, it boasts warm weather all year round, making it a magnet for beach lovers and northern snowbirds. Although it’s a small town, there’s plenty to do, and many travelers report it “sucking them in” with its charm and laid back vibe.

Besides surfing, you can also kayak to search for sea caves or take a tour to see them . Lagos is also known for its marine life, especially the dolphins you can see year round .

28. Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are eight small islands off the coast of West Africa, although they’re technically a part of Spain. Across them, you’ll find a rich diversity of landscapes, food, and culture, making this one of the world’s most unique destinations. The Canaries are also known for having incredible weather: long hours of sunshine with little rain and mild temperatures.

Besides the iconic beaches and lush greenery, you’ll find that this small archipelago is bursting with culture. In fact, this is the only place on earth that has a whistling language, called silbo gomero , which is native to the islands and joins Spanish, Catalán, and other languages spoken here.

Another huge draw is the incredible whale watching, which you can enjoy at any time of year. Various species inhabit the nearby waters at different times of year; you can check them out on a whale watching tour.

27. Granada, Spain

One of the most enchanting places in Spain is Granada, the southern part of the country. Most visitors go to see the Alhambra, aka “Red Palace.” This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 13th century by Moorish rulers and is quite large, covering over 140,000 square meters (35 acres) in three distinct parts.

Because of its size, complexity, and wealth of history, it’s best to tackle the Alhambra with a guide for a day. This guided tour is great because it includes the famous Nasrid Palaces.

Beyond the Alhambra, Granada is full of beautiful architecture and is also known for its impressive gastronomy. Don’t miss out on the delicious Spanish dish called tortillas de Sacromonte , which are unique to the region.

26. Nice, France

Nice is one of those cities that travelers always come back to. It has the essence of a fairytale setting, so it’s no wonder why it’s one of the absolute best summer destinations in all of Europe. After all, it was Henri Matisse’s and other Impressionist artists’ chosen home. Nowadays, Nice has its very own Musée Matisse, which honors him and his works.

Besides being an artists’ haven, Nice is also an incredible gastronomic paradise that’s perfect for a traveling foodie. Try a socca (chickpea pancake), one of the city’s most quintessential snacks. And of course, the French wine isn’t half bad either!

25. Bern, Switzerland

Even though it’s one of the largest cities in Switzerland, Bern has more of a small-town feel. Known as the “city of fountains,” it has dozens of beautiful and strange fountains in the historic center alone (like a 500-year-old one of an ogre eating a child — yikes).

Hang out in Bern’s Old Town, bordered by the Aare River, and check out the medieval architecture paired with quintessential Swiss-style buildings. Start your trip with a historical walking tour to learn more about the city!

24. Cavtat, Croatia

Cavtat is a sleepy Croatian town that has everything that makes this underrated country amazing: a rich cultural history, delightful cuisine, and lovely seaside views. It’s just a 30-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik, but its calm atmosphere makes it feel a world away.

Along the coastal streets of Cavtat, you’ll find adorable cafés, kitschy shops, and plenty of locals hanging out. The region is also known for its wine, which comes from the nearby Konavle Valley.

If you enjoy getting off the typical tourist track, this is a great place to see how locals live and have a more authentic experience.

23. Tübingen, Germany

On any given sunny day, you’ll see people floating down the river in traditional punts against the backdrop of colorful historic buildings — this is the kind of charm you can expect in Tübingen, often referred to as the “eternal student town” because of its robust population of students and professors from the local university.

Tübingen is also home to the Hohentübingen Castle, a structure built in 1037 that has a mix of medieval and modern architecture, and also hosts the fascinating Ancient Culture Museum. Visit the castle, take in the hilltop views of the town, and check out all the adorable cafés downtown. This is one German destination that you won’t want to miss, especially in the Christmas !

22. Frankfurt, Germany

You can expect to find plenty to do in Frankfurt, one of Germany’s largest metropolises. This bustling city is an international hub with a truly cosmopolitan vibe, gigantic museums, quirky cafés, vibrant markets, and much more. Since it’s such a big place, start off your Frankfurt adventure with a private tour to get acquainted .

Because of its location in central Germany, Frankfurt is an awesome place to start exploring the country as a whole. There are tons of day trips from here, like this one to the Hohenzollern Castle .

-READ NEXT-

A Complete Guide to Germany

21. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is the ultimate destination for art and architecture enthusiasts. One of its most famous features is its immaculate café scene. Walk into any traditional Viennese café and you’ll see beautiful decorations, a whole host of fluffy pastries, and lots of locals hanging out.

Vienna is one of the absolute best places to visit in Europe any time of year, but especially during Christmastime. It’s known throughout Europe to have the most extravagant Christmas decorations and celebrations, so a trip during the month of December is ideal!

One of the many wonderful places to explore in Vienna is the Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens, a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture; you can book a tour of it here .

20. Lofoten Islands, Norway

I’m here to let you in on a little secret: the Lofoten Islands in Norway are severely underrated, so you should definitely consider visiting. You’ll find snow-covered mountains, arctic wildlife, and charming towns.

Located inside the Arctic Circle, the islands feature some of Europe’s most stunning, unspoiled nature. They’re perfect for travelers who like to explore the outdoors. Check out this winter kayaking adventure that combines history and nature.

Not to mention, the islands are one of the most amazing places to catch the Northern Lights , from August through October. This is an awesome destination for travelers who love to go where few other tourists go.

19. Isle of Skye, Scotland

Along the highlands of Scotland lies the Isle of Skye, the largest of the Inner Hebrides, at 50 miles long. The jaw-dropping landscapes are the main attraction here, including the legendary “Fairy Pools” and Cuillin Mountain.

There is also an abundance of wildlife, including white-tailed sea eagles, otters, seals, and whales, among other creatures. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of the mythical Loch Ness Monster, whose story originated off the coast of the island.

To see all the magic of the Isle of Skye, consider this three-day sightseeing tour !

18. The Giant’s Causeway, Ireland

Northern Ireland’s coastline is one of the most idiosyncratic landscapes in Europe, with the Giant’s Causeway one of its highlights. Thousands of hexagon-shaped basalt columns, which date back to over 60 million years ago, plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. The legend behind the Giant’s Causeway is that the columns were erected to create stepping stones for giants, hence the name.

As the light changes throughout the day, so does the scenery at the causeway. You’ll see the colors shift from deep green to gray and brown as the sun sets, creating a mystical scene. Plus, the columns are fun to climb and explore.

17. The Cotswolds, England

Just a couple hours from the hustle and bustle of London is a region called the Cotswolds. This hilly area spans central and southwest England and is the perfect destination for travelers who love the outdoors and sleepy little towns. It’s also a favorite staycation spot for Londoners looking to get out of town and connect with nature and the slow pace of life here.

Spend a day or two, or even a couple weeks exploring the farms, hills, and cobblestone streets in one of England’s most charming regions. The Cotswolds are great to visit all on their own, but you can also check them out on a day trip from London .

16. Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is a total paradise at the foot of the Italian Alps. Along the perimeter of this inverted-Y-shaped lake, you’ll find picturesque towns and villages that have an ageless elegance, each with its own character. You can visit as many as you’d like by taking a water taxi across the lake.

The lake often gets a reputation for being extra luxurious and overpriced. However, visiting during low season, from October to April, is a great option for budget travelers who want to avoid high lodging prices. It might be colder during then, but the towns take on a romantic quality in the chillier months.

To get a stunning panoramic view of Lake Como, consider this tour with a cable ride !

15. Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp is bursting at the seams with culture and exciting events almost any time of year, making it one of the more lively destinations on this list. It has a fascinating mix of new and old: slick modern buildings of floor-to-ceiling glass next to classic Belgian architecture. One prime example is the famous Antwerpen Centraal, which has a vintage feel yet houses a collection of shiny, ultra-modern sculptures.

Get a stunning view of town from the top of the Giant Ferris Wheel or kick-start your visit with this neat two-hour bike tour to get the lay of the land.

14. Utrecht, Netherlands

Sure, you’ve heard all about Amsterdam, but have you heard of Utrecht, the beating heart of Dutch culture? Like many cities in the Netherlands, you won’t see many cars in Utrecht. In fact, the city center is almost entirely car free. This is because the Dutch tend to opt for bicycles instead, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to feel like a local by renting a bike to get around.

The Dom Tower is Utrecht’s most prominent feature and you can see it from almost anywhere in town. Utrecht is a college town with tons of museums, landmarks, and sites to see, most notably the peaceful canals that run throughout it.

13. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

This tiny country packs a huge cultural punch as one of Europe’s most diverse cities. Luxembourg City is a melting pot with people living there from over 170 countries and is known throughout Europe to be the most multilingual city on the continent. In fact, regardless of nationality, a majority of the city’s residents are at least trilingual. Polyglots rejoice! This is the city you’ve been searching for.

Another reason to visit Luxembourg is its impressive selection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are four of them in Luxembourg City alone! It’s also one of the safest cities in the world, so you can expect to have a relatively crime-free experience.

12. Sibiu, Romania

If Romania, let alone Sibiu, has flown under your travel radar, you’re not alone. I feel like Romania doesn’t get the travel hype it deserves, although the country seems to be having somewhat of a tourism moment. Sibiu is no exception: recently, more and more travelers are making a stop there to admire the town’s beauty.

Sibiu’s “downtown” consists of the remnants of the medieval center from the 12th century. You’ll find small town squares, towers, stone wall defenses, and ancient-looking buildings and churches. Visiting this idyllic city feels like taking a step way back into the past — in the best way.

Book an awesome tour of the city here.

11. Santorini, Greece

You’ve seen the Insta photos, so surely Santorini has been on your bucket list for some time if you haven’t ticked it off already. This picturesque Greek island is one of the country’s most popular destinations — and it’s no wonder why. Idyllic blue-domed churches, breezy sea views, sparkling sunsets, and colorful beaches all await you on Santorini.

In case you just can’t wait any longer for your slice of Grecian heaven, we’ve got everything you need to begin planning your Santorini getaway with this helpful guide . In it, you’ll find the best hikes, beaches, and other fun must-do activities.

10. Kotor, Montenegro

The vibrant blue water you see in the photo is the Bay of Kotor, a serene place to relax and enjoy the sights of the beautiful medieval city. Wandering through Kotor’s Old Town feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and mystical atmosphere.

Kotor is brimming with old cathedrals and relics from the past, like the Kotor Fortress. You could spend days exploring the city by land and sea. Try this sweet boat tour , which includes a stop at the must-see Blue Cave.

9. Soča Valley, Slovenia

Slovenia’s Soča Valley is home to one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, the River Soča. In some parts, it appears to be bright blue, while in others, it looks more emerald green. With waterfalls, rocky gorges, and canyons along the way, the river is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Many travelers come to the Soča Valley to go rafting, kayaking, and canyoning along the river. Consider kayaking with a guide to learn more about the valley and its history.

The Soča Valley is also the first place to earn the designation “ EDEN ” for its sustainable development of tourism.

8. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the ultimate stop on any European architecture junkie’s bucket list. From Art Nouveau to baroque and neoclassical styles, you’ll find an enchanting variety of buildings to admire throughout town. Between visits to these beloved architectural gems, grab a bite at a traditional Hungarian restaurant to find out why Budapest is one of Eastern Europe’s food capitals.

This sparkling Hungarian city is also famous for its hot springs and bathhouses. One of the most popular is the Széchenyi Spa, which you can book a visit to here .

7. Kungsleden, Sweden

Stretching over 400 kilometers (250 miles) between Abisko and Hemavan is Kungsleden, one of the most famous hiking trails in the world, which adventurers from all over the world visit each year. Between the mountainous birch forests and rugged alpine terrain, you’ll see many wonders of the Swedish landscape on this trail. Along the trail, you’ll also pass by small villages and four national parks: Abisko, Stora Sjöfallet, Sarek, and Pieljekaise. The trail is well marked, making it ideal for any level of backpacker.

Many travelers do the trail in spurts. Whether you’re down for the entire length or just a few kilometers, you’re sure to have a blast exploring it and meeting all kinds of hikers along the way.

6. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen makes this list because it’s considered by some to be the happiest city in the world. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see what all the hype is about? Besides the delightfully friendly locals and world-class cuisine, the Danish capital is home to a wonderful collection of museums, palaces, gardens, and churches.

Like in other small European countries, you’ll see an impressive number of people on bicycles, so consider renting one and joining in on the cycling fun. Even better, take on the city via bicycle tour !

What are you waiting for? Go see why people in Copenhagen are so happy!

5. Helsinki, Finland

If you’re a design and architecture aficionado, Helsinki might be the perfect place for you. Feast your eyes on buildings whose designers have a knack for symmetry and style that you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. In particular, you’ll find one of the largest collections of Art Nouveau buildings on the continent.

Helsinki, like other big cities in northern Europe, has a long-standing sauna culture, which makes the frigid temperatures more manageable for locals and visitors alike. If you don’t mind stripping down in front of strangers, giving a sauna a try while you visit is sort of a rite of passage.

4. Krakow, Poland

Visiting Krakow promises a burst of Polish culture, history, gastronomy, nightlife, and so much more. As one of the country’s most vibrant cultural epicenters, Krakow is an absolute must.

As someone who grew up eating Polish cuisine, this city is high on my list solely because of the incredible food scene. You’ll see very quickly that the local fare is much more than just pierogies and sausages. Street food in Poland is flavorful and authentic, and at the many carts around town, you can try small and large plates.

Krakow is also where you’ll find the largest city square in Europe, Rynek Glowny. This is the absolute best place to start exploring and tasting everything you possibly can. While you’re there, don’t pass up the opportunity to step inside the awe-inspiring Basilica of the Virgin Mary.

3. Tatra Mountains, Poland

I’ve been hearing about the Tatra Mountains for a very long time, which until recently I didn’t know was actually kind of rare. Many travelers to Europe skip Poland altogether, and even more miss the beauty of this mountain range. Since we’re all about the great outdoors here at BMTM, this is one of those places that I have to mention.

The Tatras have long been a haven for backpackers and solo travelers. The area is known as a mini version of the Alps because of the similar landscapes; however, there are far fewer visitors and therefore more solitude in which to enjoy nature. Plus, it’s much more affordable to visit the Tatras. At they are just a two-hour drive from Krakow, consider combining the two for an epic Polish adventure.

2. Vilnius, Lithuania

Maybe Lithuania hasn’t caught your attention yet, but it’s about to. As one of Eastern Europe’s most quirky cities, Vilnius has a charm unlike any other. Teeming with baroque architecture and quaint museums, the country’s capital is beloved by European travelers and intercontinental guests alike.

This city’s rich Jewish heritage makes for a vibrant cultural landscape that outsiders will find interesting and thought provoking; don’t miss out on the Green House Holocaust Museum to learn more about it. Vilnius has also been a haven for artists, who once banded together in the present-day neighborhood of Užupis to declare themselves their own independent republic.

Consider checking out Vilnius’s Old Town on a private tour like this one.

1. Ohrid, North Macedonia

When you look at photos of Ohrid, North Macedonia, you might be surprised to know that this gorgeous destination has yet to become a tourist hot spot. Its narrow cobblestone streets are reminiscent of Italian and French villages, but Ohrid has a flavor all its own. In many ways, this small city feels like a time capsule, with its medieval architecture and old-school flair.

Ohrid is on a magnificent lake in the mountains, and although it’s just a three-hour drive from the capital of Skopje, it feels a world away from the city noise. This incredible location is likely to catch on with European tourists, so visit soon to take in its authentic beauty.

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I have to admit that I’ve been avoiding traveling through Europe for some time. It’s mostly because I enjoy rugged adventures, and I’ve gotten used to the backpacker’s way of travel. I used to think of Europe as a whole (my first mistake, because it’s so diverse and difficult to generalize about it) as being more of a bougie place to travel. However, there are so many off-the-beaten-path destinations that have become more and more appealing to me.

Have you traveled through Europe? What is your favorite place there?

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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Marcone says

12/16/2021 at 10:00 pm

I enjoy this blog so much.

12/19/2021 at 10:09 am

I enjoy this list. In the part about the Isle of Skye, you mention that the Loch Ness Monster story arose off the shore of the Isle of Sky;e. I believe that story belongs to Loch Ness, not the Atlantic Ocean.

12/26/2021 at 1:32 pm

You are correct Denny. I think what happened is the three day tour mentions Island of Skye and Loch Ness together. On day 2 you explore beautiful Isle of Skye and but then day 3 they go elsewhere They go that day into Scottish Highlands and see Loch Ness and maybe “monster spotting” and this is where the story originated. Other lakes and rivers have legends too of monster like creatures. Did you know there are dozens in the US alone. Even in a river in my home state not too far from my home.

12/26/2021 at 1:45 pm

Also Denny instead of the tour it could also be in reference to the Storr Loch monster that WAS in Isle of Skye. It was real. A 170 million or so old Jurassic era skeleton fossil discovered in 1966 and verified in 2016. Google “Storr Loch”. Very interesting. Scotland’s real Loch monster! Not Loch Ness so keep hunting but really cool.

01/10/2022 at 9:39 am

Love this list! And hands up for Kotor and the Soca Valley.. can’t wait to go back ?

The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.

United Kingdom

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With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.

Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.

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Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.

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Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.

Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .

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An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play. 

Jakob Radlgruber / EyeEm / Getty Images

With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history . 

The Netherlands

Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.

Evan Schiller/Courtesy of Ballybunion Golf Club

If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.

Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .

Switzerland

Manuta/Getty Images

As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .

This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.

Faroe Islands

It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.

Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .

Czech Republic

If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.

If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .

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World Wild Schooling

14 Most Beautiful Places To Retire in Europe

Posted: April 24, 2024 | Last updated: April 24, 2024

After years of hard work, you want to retire to a place that offers beautiful scenery, a good quality of life, and possibly a reasonably affordable lifestyle. These European locations are ideal for anyone looking to slow down and savor their retirement life.

There is something for you whether you’re looking for mild climates, opportunities for endless outdoor activities, rich culture, or a slowed-down life rhythm. 

Soller, Mallorca, Spain

While the entire island of Mallorca is an excellent option for retirees, you want to choose a town that tourists do not overrun, and that will be Soller.

Soller boasts stunning natural scenery, lush greenery, citrus orchards, and a dramatic backdrop of the Tramuntana mountains. This charming town is also close to scenic beaches and coves along the Mallorcan coastline. 

It is also ideal for retirees seeking a relaxed and laid-back pace of life since it has maintained its traditional charm and sense of community.

Read also:  Cities in Europe for Solo Traveling

Crete, Greece

Crete is the perfect retirement oasis, offering a blend of magnificent landscapes, rich history, and lively local culture. This Greek island has pristine beaches , rugged mountains, and fertile valleys. Crete’s sunny climate, with its warm summers and mild winters, makes every day feel like a holiday.

Life in Crete moves leisurely, allowing retirees to engage fully in the local lifestyle. The island has quaint villages where traditional Greek customs still exist, offering a sense of community. For those interested in history and archaeology, Crete’s ancient Minoan sites, such as the Palace of Knossos, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Moreover, Crete is known for its cuisine, with a diet rich in fresh, local ingredients that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. The cost of living in Crete is another attractive feature, offering affordability without compromising quality of life.

Read also: Must-Visit Islands in Greece

Brest, Brittany, France

Again, the entire Brittany region is a great place to retire, but if we had to narrow it down to a specific location, Brest would have to be on top of the list. Brest perfectly blends urban amenities, maritime charm, and scenic beauty. Located on the coastline of Brittany, Brest offers excellent beach opportunities and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

For an active retirement, you can also spend your days or weekends birdwatching, cycling, or hiking at Parc Naturel Régional d’Armorique and the Crozon Peninsula. 

Besides, Brest is a perfect gateway to other tourist spots in Brittany, such as Saint-Malo. It is also typically cheaper than major French cities and coastline towns, making it a perfect place to live comfortably while stretching your budget.

Read also: Charming Seaside Towns in Europe

Martinique, France

Looking to skip the hustle of living in mainland Europe? One of the best recommendations would be Martinique. Located in the Caribbean, this French overseas department is a tropical paradise attracting retirees with its rich French and Creole culture. You will also love its natural beauty, including pristine beaches, mountains, and lush rainforests.

It is the perfect destination to embrace an outdoor lifestyle, enjoy water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sailing, and explore the island’s diverse ecosystems. While Martinique will be pricier than other Caribbean destinations, it is cheaper than mainland Europe.

Read also: Amazing European Islands for a Relaxing Escape

Tavira, Algarve, Portugal

Tavria is located on the eastern coast of Algarve, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, golden beaches, and tranquil rivers. Besides, Tavira is surrounded by lush countryside and nature reserves, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities in the warm Mediterranean climate. Tavira receives over 300 days of sunshine annually, so this would be paradise for any outdoor enthusiasts.

Portugal, in general, is known to have a lower cost of living than most European countries. You will also love the relaxed lifestyle and the hospitality you will receive while living in this town.

Read also: Hidden Gems of Southern Europe

Siena, Tuscany, Italy

Siena is a laid-back town in Tuscany that offers a perfect retirement life. The Tuscan countryside’s stunning landscapes, rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves surround the town.

Living here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, take daily strolls in the vineyards, and explore nearby medieval hilltop towns such as San Gimignano and Montepulciano.

You will also love that you can take a short drive to major Tuscany attractions; for instance, Florence is only an hour from Siena’s city center, making it a perfect day trip destination.

Read also: Scenic European Countryside

Peloponnese, Greece

The Peloponnese region is a hidden gem for retirees. This southern part of Greece offers stunning landscapes, including rugged mountains, lush forests, and tranquil beaches. The climate here is inviting, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Retirement in the Peloponnese is synonymous with living in a land where history and modernity merge. Ancient ruins, such as the famous sites of Olympia, Mycenae, and Epidaurus, offer endless exploration opportunities, while the region’s small towns and villages boast a lively contemporary life.

The Peloponnese is also celebrated for its contributions to Greek cuisine with local specialties and wines. The cost of living in the Peloponnese is relatively low, allowing retirees to enjoy a high quality of life without stretching their budgets.

Read also: Best Greek Islands for a Budget-Friendly Vacay

Madeira, Portugal

Sun seekers would love the mild climate, beauty, and welcoming atmosphere of Madeira, an island on the Atlantic Ocean. It is a great place to engage in outdoor activities all year round, thanks to the subtropical weather it offers.

If you’re looking to spend your retirement appreciating the beauty of nature, then let it be on the Madeira Islands’ breathtaking landscapes, including dramatic cliffs, lush mountains, and picturesque valleys. 

Besides, Madeira is known for its stability and security. If you’re looking for an affordable paradise with a low crime rate, Madeira is the place to be.

Read also: Impressive European Villages To Visit

Dubrovnik, Croatia

There are many good reasons to live in Dubrovnik, but the top would be the stunning sea, including the Adriatic Sea, rugged cliffs, and beautiful beaches and islands. A retirement life exploring these features would be a dream come true.

You will also love that Dubrovnik’s Mediterranean climate offers an excellent opportunity for endless exploration; the summers are hot and dry, while the winters are wet and mild. This is the perfect opportunity to engage in outdoor activities such as swimming, island hopping, sailing, kayaking, and hiking. 

Also, Dubrovnik is way cheaper than major Western European features. If you want to live a holiday without splashing all your retirement savings, Dubrovnik is your perfect retirement destination.

Read also: Underrated Mediterranean Places to Visit

Slovenian Alps, Slovenia

If you’re a mountain person and love the tranquility that comes with it, an excellent place to retire to would be in the Slovenian Alps. If you’re a big city person, go for the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana; it is an equally great place to experience mountain life.

However, we recommend going for the other smaller towns nestled amidst the mountains for a more laid-back life at a lower cost. Some of your best bets would be Bled, Piran, Kranj, Koper or Novo Mesto. 

Living in the Slovenian Alps is an excellent opportunity to enjoy breathtaking natural beauty with majestic mountain peaks, lush green valleys, pristine alpine lakes, and dense forests. This makes it ideal for retirees who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, mountaineering, and nature walks. 

Besides, the healthcare system in Slovenia is unbeatable. It provides universal coverage and broad benefits packages.

Read also: Best Lake Destinations in Europe  

Kotor Bay, Montenegro

Kotor Bay is a picturesque destination surrounded by towering mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Some good reasons to live in Kotor are the beautiful natural scenery and charming Mediterranean climate, making it a perfect place for an active outdoor lifestyle.

The cost of housing, dining out, and groceries are reasonably low in Montenegro compared to Western European countries. Besides, many people in Montenegro have an excellent command of English, making it an ideal retirement home for English-speaking people.

Read also: Underrated Cities in Europe

Paphos, Cyprus

Cyprus has been recognized as one of the safest countries in Europe. If you want to live in a major coastal city with low crime rates, Paphos is a good choice.

Additionally, the city offers beautiful natural scenery, a Mediterranean climate, and endless outdoor activities. It is also one of those European destinations that is still reasonably affordable.

Read also: Easily Accessible Greek Island Getaways

Helsinki, Finland

While it may not be the most affordable retirement destination, Helsinki had to make the list. Finland has consistently been ranked as the happiest country in the world, and any retiree who values their well-being would want to grab a slice of Finnish happiness.

Besides, the housing crisis in Helinski is not as bad as in other major Western European cities. You will also like the comprehensive healthcare that Finland provides to its residents. 

Also, while the city has many things to see and do, it is a gateway to the stunning Finnish countryside.

Read also: Amazing Winter Cities in Europe

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is famous for its architectural marvels, delicious cuisine, thermal baths, unique museums, and being on the Danube River’s banks, which can spice up your retirement life.

Budapest is also a great idea to make the most out of your retirement savings thanks to its relatively affordable cost of living. 

Furthermore, Hungary is one of the centrally located European countries. While traveling across Europe is simple, Hungary’s centrality makes it easier.

Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Stunning Small Towns in Europe to Visit in Your Lifetime

Add these  charming European small towns  to your bucket list.

• Read more:  Small Towns in Europe

Must-Visit European Cities for Your Bucket List

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of  must-visit European cities .

• Read more:  Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Hidden European Gems

Explore  off-the-beaten-path gems in Europe  for a truly authentic experience.

• Read more:  Hidden Gems in Europe

Best Budget-Friendly European Cities

Stretch your travel budget in these  cost-effective European cities .

• Read more:  Budget-Friendly European Cities

European Cities for a Spring Getaway

Make your spring unforgettable with these  European city trips .

• Read more:  12 Top Cities in Europe for Spring

Small Towns Across the Globe That Are Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

Step into a world of  beautiful small towns  where cobblestone streets lead to timeless wonders.

• Read more:  Small Towns Out of a Fairy Tale

Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

Make your travel dreams come true with these wonderfully  unique places in Europe .

• Read more:  Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

Read the original thread on  14 Most Beautiful Places To Retire in Europe .

This article was produced and syndicated by  World Wild Schooling .

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The Most Beautiful Small Towns in Europe

By Caitlin Morton

Too many travelers overlook small towns in Europe. When it comes to European vacations, big culture-driven cities like Rome and Paris tend to get all the attention. But between all the landmarks and selfie-taking tourists, you’ll find hundreds of charming spots in Europe with populations smaller than the line for the Eiffel Tower. And despite their petite size, they still offer the same great architecture and beautiful natural surroundings as their metropolitan counterparts.

Whether it's a lakeside hamlet in Austria or a hauntingly beautiful village in Romania , these 26 storybook towns are the stuff European dreams are made of. Fair warning: There are many charming bell towers and cobblestoned streets ahead.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Guimarães, Portugal

Population: 152,309

The northern town of Guimarães is often referred to as Portugal ’s “cradle city,” as the country’s first king, Afonso Henriques, was born here in the early 1100s. Lean into that sense of history in the UNESCO-listed city center, filled with excellent examples of Portuguese architecture (those tiles!) dating back 600 years. And while Guimarães may be a bit larger than the other entries on this list, its charming plazas and family-owned shops provide the same storybook feel that you’s find in some of Portugal’s tiniest villages.

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Population: 13,056

Do you love the look of Prague but hate the crowds? Enter Český Krumlov, an incredibly picturesque town in South Bohemia. Here you’ll find red-roofed houses, plazas with fountains, and a Gothic castle overlooking the Vltava River. Think of it as a small-scale Prague you can walk across in under 30 minutes.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Population: 2,452

The Alpine town of Lauterbrunnen is pretty in its own right, with chalet-style houses and small village churches. But its natural surroundings are what really steal the show: think towering rock faces, mountain peaks, flowery meadows, and some of the tallest free-flowing waterfalls in Europe. Fun fact: J.R.R. Tolkien used Lauterbrunnen as inspiration for the fictional valley of Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings .

Eguisheim, France

Population: 1,734

If you close your eyes and picture the perfect French village , it probably looks exactly like Eguisheim. The Alsace town has it all: half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and even a Christmas market come December. Be sure to stop by the Chapelle Saint-Léon IX, a pretty chapel with painted vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows depicting the Saints of Alsace.

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Bled, Slovenia

Population: 8,171

There’s a reason Lake Bled is one of Slovenia's most popular sites. With its emerald waters, church-dotted islet, views of the Julien Alps, and 12th-century castle on a hill, you won’t be short on picture-perfect views. The surrounding town of Bled is just as charming, with candlelit restaurants and traditional wooden rowboats just waiting for visitors.

Mdina, Malta

Population: 243

Malta’s capital city of Valletta isn’t exactly huge, with a population under 6,000 and an area smaller than Central Park. But if you want to go even smaller, head to the fortified city of Mdina in the center of the island nation. Malta’s old capital has extraordinary examples of Medieval and Baroque architecture, with churches, catacombs, and palaces open for visitors to explore. The city boasts a bit of pop culture fame as well: It served as the filming location for the entrance to King’s Landing in the first season of Game of Thrones .

Ronda, Spain

Population: 33,978

One of the highlights of traveling around Andalusia is the seemingly endless supply of pueblos blancos (white towns) named for the uniform color of the houses. While there are many that exhibit the Moorish architecture and labyrinthine streets that define the region , there’s something extra special about Ronda—namely, its location. Set high in the mountains on the edge of a 400-foot cliff, the views of the valley below are stunning and the three bridges that span the canyon are mind-boggling feats of engineering.

Ribe, Denmark

Population: 8,168

Dating back more than 1,300 years, Ribe is the oldest town in Denmark —and, in fact, in all of Scandinavia. The city was established in the early eighth century, and while you can’t find any structures that date back to that time still standing today, the picturesque cathedrals and half-timbered houses on cobblestoned streets are well-worth a visit.

Portree, Scotland

Population: 2,480

The Isle of Skye is known for its sublime natural beauty , but it also happens to house one of the U.K.’s most charming little towns. Situated on the edge of Loch Portree, the capital city has rows of pastel-colored homes and pubs, with a flotilla of bright fishing and lobster boats stirring peacefully in the harbor outside.

Praiano, Italy

Population: 2,008

The town of Praiano (close to Positano) lies along the iconic Amalfi Coast, packed with beautiful beaches like Marina di Praia and Gavitella, and culture to boot. Come here for stunning ancient churches, towers, and sacred sculptures. The San Gennaro Church is a notable standout, with intricate tile floors and a ceramic dome that can be seen from most anywhere in town.

Dinant, Belgium

Population: 13,544

Nestled snugly in a cliff face on the Meuse River in Belgium’s Wallonia region, the tiny town of Dinant looks like the setting of a Disney movie—complete with skyline-defining Gothic cathedral and 16th-century castle (hedge maze included). Fun fact: Dinant also happens to be the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the—you guessed it—saxophone.

Giethoorn, Netherlands

Population: 2,620

Affectionately referred to as the “Venice of the Netherlands,” this village has no roads —just bike lanes and canals. Explore Giethoorn’s roof farmhouses and wooden arch bridges by boat, or by ice skating on the canals during the frozen winter months.

Hallstatt, Austria

Population: 779

There’s something special about Hallstatt, easily one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe. This fact is made evident when you pull up by ferry across the glassy lake, with mist rolling down from the towering Dachstein mountains. Within the UNESCO World Heritage town are churches that date to the 12th century, a buzzing market square, and plenty of cozy, candlelit restaurants. Bonus: Hallstatt is only an hour’s drive from Salzburg and three from Vienna , making it a relatively easy day trip from Austria’s larger and more touristed cities.

Castle Combe, England

Population: 344

Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village located in the southwest county of Wiltshire. No new houses have been built here since the 1600s, so the town is a well-preserved stretch of Cotswold stone cottages and old pubs and churches. For a real taste of the town, stop in for afternoon tea at the The Old Rectory Pop Up Tearoom.

Assos, Greece

Population: 88

The charming, bloom-filled village of Assos on Kefalonia is one of the most compelling reasons to visit the Greek Islands . The tiny hamlet sits at the bottom of a hill, surrounded by the strikingly blue Mediterranean Sea on three sides. Spend some time on the village’s pebble beach before loading up on Greek food in one of the traditional restaurants lining the marina. Seriously, do vacations get any better than that?

Kotor, Montenegro

Population: 13,510

At turns reminiscent of Norwegian fjords and Lake Como, the Bay of Kotor is lined with ancient, picturesque towns—including its namesake. Backed by steep limestone cliffs, Kotor’s UNESCO-protected Old Town draws visitors for its scenic location, but also for its history. Getting lost here is not only encouraged, but expected: Centuries ago, Old Kotor was built like a maze to confuse invaders.

Ísafjörður, Iceland

Population: 2,571

Located in Iceland’s unbelievably gorgeous Westfjords peninsula, the tiny town of Ísafjörður is nearly swallowed by the towering mountains surrounding it. With winter temperatures dipping down to the 20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures rarely reaching above the mid-50s, Ísafjörður is pretty much the opposite of your go-to Italian and Greek resort towns—and therein lies its appeal, especially if you prefer your vacations more rugged than ritzy.

Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Population: 13,083

Tucked between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean (and technically part of Denmark), the Faroe Islands have enough puffins and grass-roofed houses to keep travelers happy for days. The capital of Tórshavn is also the largest city on the archipelago, settled behind a busy harbor on the east coast of Streymoy Island. Within the 66.8-square-mile city are 18th-century churches, a handful of museums, a tiny Old Town, and rows of houses painted black and red.

Korcula, Croatia

Population: 5,663

One of the Croatia’s most popular islands , Korcula is renowned for its white wine and dense forests. Its biggest town, the eponymous Korcula, is known as “Little Dubrovnik” for its fortified medieval walls and narrow streets. Local legend says explorer Marco Polo was born here, and the site of his alleged birth is open to visitors.

Cobh, Ireland

Population: 12,800

Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbor. This town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers—about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic , and a commemorative museum stands in the city today.

Reine, Lofoten Islands

Population: 314

The beauty of the Lofoten Islands , just off of Norway’s northwestern coast, is truly unparalleled: think majestic fjords, frozen beaches dotted with surfers, and colorful fishing villages. Reine on the island of Moskenesøya is one such village, located above the Arctic Circle about 190 miles southwest of Tromsø. The town’s yellow, stilted buildings surrounded by jagged mountains and icy waters is about as picturesque as it gets.

Kastraki, Greece

Population: 560

The idyllic, red-roofed town of Kastraki has one of the best backdrops imaginable: the famous Meteora monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by the wildflower-filled countryside of mainland Greece. It’s hard to imagine a more impressive view than opening your blinds to see medieval buildings on pillars of rock that stretch a thousand feet into the sky.

Sighișoara, Romania

Population: 26,370

If you like your Eastern European towns to come with a fear factor, then the Transylvanian city of Sighișoara is for you. The historic town is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the vicious Prince of Wallachia who inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula . For the best thrills, you can tour his childhood home (which includes a tiny torture museum) or brave Holy Trinity Church’s eerie and creaky stairwell after dark. Not a fan of the macabre? Sighișoara’s UNESCO-protected historic center and streets lined with colorful houses provide a nice fairytale vibe—minus the bad guys.

Castelluccio, Italy

Population: <150

Located atop a steep hill 5,000 feet above sea level, Castellucio is the highest village in the Appenine Mountain Range—and arguably the most beautiful. On one side, the village is backed by snow-capped mountains, and on the other, lush, fertile plains that blossom with red poppies, violets, and rapeseed in the spring (time your visit to their flowering, from late May to early June). Sadly, a 2016 earthquake rendered the village virtually uninhabitable, but some remaining residents have re-opened shops and restaurants that visitors can pop into.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Population: 10,930

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its preserved medieval Old Town, draws millions of tourists each year with its made-for-Instagram multicolored facades. If you can swing it, plan your visit for December, when the town transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-dusted rooftops, glowing storefronts, and cozy taverns. And don't forget about the Reiterlesmarkt, one of the best Christmas markets in the entire country.

Flåm, Norway

Population: 350

Undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful cruise ports, the tiny village of Flåm welcomes ships passing through western Norway’s vast Sognefjord. The town is scattered with boldly colored houses and surrounded by unblemished green hills, but it’s perhaps best known for housing Flamsbana—the world’s steepest railway. Hop on the train in Flåm, which will take you past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks to the summit of Myrdal Mountain.

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Pop Culture Happy Hour

• Performing Arts

Pop Culture

You know it when you see it: here are some movies that got sex scenes right.

Linda Holmes

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist. Niko Tavernise/Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures hide caption

It is a happy coincidence that our "What makes a good sex scene?" episode came out in the same week as Challengers, a film about a romance triangle in the tennis world starring Josh O'Connor, Zendaya and (not pictured) Mike Faist.

What makes a good sex scene? It can be easier spot bad sex, but Aisha Harris, Christina Tucker, Ronald Young, Jr. and I tried to focus on the good this week on Pop Culture Happy Hour. You can listen to our full conversation here. (We didn't originally plan for this episode to run the same week as our episode about Challengers , which is out in theaters now, but it's a happy coincidence, since that film has gotten a lot of attention — probably too much, relative to its other merits — for the sex scenes involving its three leads. It's really very good .)

Movie Reviews

Watch a tense romantic triangle play out on the tennis court in 'challengers'.

It's often very obvious when a sex scene is bad, just like when a sex scene in a book is bad. It can get so uncomfortable to watch that you have to leave the room (and not in a way that feels true to the story). One of my personal tells for a bad sex scene is when all I can think about is how hard the actors are trying to persuade me that the characters are having a good time. For example, there has been much good discussion in recent years about Showgirls being a more interesting and competent project than it originally got credit for, but in that one pool scene (if you know it, you know it), all I can see is the effort.

Lauren Bacall And The 'Sex? What Sex?' Kind Of Movie Sex

It's not always as clear which scenes are good . That's partly because they serve so many different functions, all of which look different, and all of which can be effective. Furthermore, you don't want to confuse whether a sex scene is used well in a film with whether it's hot to you personally, despite the fact that there is overlap between those considerations.

In the 'Last Dance,' Magic Mike leaves his thong-and-dance routine behind

Here's what I mean: When Aisha talks about the sequence near the beginning of Magic Mike's Last Dance , it's not irrelevant that the scene is, to her (and to me), hot. But it also makes sense in the context of the film and the franchise, partly because of the way it sets up the power dynamic between Mike (Channing Tatum) and Max (Salma Hayek Pinault). Mike is older now, he knows more, and the way he approaches a lap dance is actually different than in earlier movies.

And not all good sex scenes are hot in the same ways. The one I mentioned in the episode, from the romantic drama Love & Basketball , is sexy, yes. But it's also a scene between young adults (the talented basketball players Monica and Quincy, played by Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps), and as such, it incorporates a tentativeness that's not present in Magic Mike's Last Dance , to say the least. As Ronald pointed out during our discussion, that sex scene is quite different from one that takes place later in Monica and Quincy's relationship, when they're older and know each other better. That certainly feels true to real life, but it's not always reflected in Hollywood films, where I would tentatively estimate that 90% of on-screen sex is more idealized and thus less intimate than real-life sex, in part because it isn't allowed to change over the course of a relationship.

Movie Interviews

'like it or not, we live in oppenheimer's world,' says director christopher nolan.

Even further from the hotness of the lap dance scene is Ronald's pick: the imagination of Kitty Oppenheimer (Emily Blunt) running wild in Oppenheimer. While her husband (Cillian Murphy) is being interrogated, she pictures him having sex with his mistress, Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh). It goes by quickly enough that it might seem like a Christopher Nolan flourish for flourish's sake, but it serves the purpose of letting you feel her pain over her husband's affair. Her relationship with Robert doesn't look especially romantic in the film, let alone sexually charged; she finds herself consumed by the idea that he was having hot sex with this other woman, and she locks eyes with her vision of a naked Tatlock and finds herself tormented. It's not really the intent of the scene to titillate the audience, just to give specificity to the shape of Kitty's preoccupation with the affair.

What makes a good sex scene?

Christina raised another really important point, which is that sex scenes also collide with viewers at very specific moments. Her example from Bound , and the scenes between Violet (Jennifer Tilly) and Corky (Gina Gershon), touches on (among other things) her own history. It's an underappreciated aspect of the sex-in-movies discourse: representation matters in these scenes as much as anywhere else. I always wish I saw more sex scenes in movies that featured a broader variety of body types; it's still really rare to see ones that feature anybody who is even average sized. This is one of the reasons I'm curious about the upcoming season of Bridgerton , which places its focus on the gorgeous and curvaceous Penelope (Nicola Coughlan).

Looking for 'nomance': Study finds teens want less sex in their TV and movies

Good sex scenes are like any other kind of good filmmaking, honestly: it comes down to execution with purpose and care, done relative to whatever the function of the scene might be.

Whether that's spiciness or conflict or relationship growth or (as in the case of Bound ) setting up a steamy neo-noir story that wouldn't be the same if it weren't hot as heck, form follows function, ideally.

This piece also appeared in NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour newsletter. Sign up for the newsletter so you don't miss the next one, plus get weekly recommendations about what's making us happy.

Listen to Pop Culture Happy Hour on Apple Podcasts and Spotify .

Politics latest: Polls set to open across England and Wales as voting takes place in local elections

England and Wales are holding a series of elections on Thursday, with several regional mayors and police and crime commissioners being decided as well as council seats up for grabs. Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 23:28, UK

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• First illegal migrants bound for Rwanda detained
• Jon Craig:  Raids were like something from Miami Vice
• Scottish government survives confidence vote
• Yousaf denies he was victim of plot to oust him
• 'Realistic prospect' Tories try to oust PM after local elections
• Local elections:  All you need to know about this week's votes
• Live reporting by Faith Ridler and (earlier)  Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

Guto Harri, the former Number 10 director of communications under Boris Johnson, has said it is a "realistic prospect" the Conservatives could move against Rishi Sunak if the results of the local elections are bad.

"I think that would be mad and unfair, but I think it's a realistic prospect now," he tells Sophy Ridge .

"It's clear that one or two mayoral contests could be read as the trigger. It could be that the overall number is so bad that that is the trigger."

'It can be very brutal'

Mr Harri says that, by Sunday, there could be conversations across Westminster on whether Tory MPs could move against Mr Sunak.

"It can happen very, very quickly, and it can be very brutal," noting the speed at which his old boss Mr Johnson was toppled.

Andrew Fisher, former head of policy for Jeremy Corbyn, says that, in contrast, Thursday could be a good night for Labour.

"It's clearly going to be a bad night for Rishi Sunak," he says.

We'll be back from 6am as polls prepare to open in local elections across the country, with mayoral and police commissioner votes also planned.

Until then, here are the headlines:

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf has resigned – days after he cut the SNP's powersharing deal with the Scottish Greens.

It followed a bitter row over the SNP's climbdown on climate targets as he said the agreement between the parties had "served its purpose".

As a result, his former Green allies teamed up with the Conservatives, Labour and Liberal Democrats to get behind two no-confidence motions, one in himself as leader of Scotland and another regarding the entire Scottish government.

Now attention turns to another SNP leadership contest and what the divisions in Scottish politics could mean for the future of the independence campaign.  

On the Sky News Daily , Matt Barbet speaks to Paul Hutcheon, political editor of the Daily Record, and Shona Craven, from The National, about how the SNP can move on after Mr Yousaf's resignation.

Plus, Connor Gillies , our Scotland correspondent , explains how the leadership election will unfold.  

Sir Keir Starmer told Sky News today he doesn't "believe" in the government's Rwanda scheme.

He said Labour would ditch it, vowing not to "flog a dead horse".

His plan would be to "stop the gangs that are running this vile trade" of smuggling people across the Channel, working with law enforcement in Europe.

"And that's why I've already had discussions in The Hague (including with EU law enforcement agency Europol) about how quickly we can share data intelligence to do that," he said.

"I'm absolutely determined to tackle this problem because the government has lost control of the borders."

Watch more below:

It's been three years since the 2,600 council seats up for grabs this week were in play - and Sir Keir Starmer couldn't be in more different place as he goes into polling day.

Back in 2021, facing an ascending Boris Johnson, Sir Keir lost the Hartlepool by-election, hundreds of councillors and a clutch of councils.

It was, Sir Keir tells me on his final election rally in the Essex town of Harlow - where Labour wants to take the council off the Tories this week and win the constituency back at the general election - a "low point", as he confirmed for the first time that he considered quitting as the results came in and the Johnson inflatable blimp flew high over Hartlepool.

"I did [consider quitting] because I didn't feel that I should be bigger than the party and that if I couldn't bring about the change, perhaps there should be a change," he said.

"But actually in the end I reflected on it, talked to very many people and doubled down and determined no it is the change in the Labour Party we need."

You can read more from Beth below:

A trade union representing senior civil servants has submitted an application for a judicial review against the government's controversial plan to send migrants to Rwanda.

The FDA said its move related to the relationship of the Civil Service Code with the government's Safety of Rwanda Act.

The union said that under the act a minister could determine whether to comply with an order made by the European Court of Human Rights.

A direction to ignore such an order would breach international law, which conflicts with the duty of civil servants under the Civil Service Code to act in compliance with the law, which includes international law, said the FDA.

General secretary Dave Penman said it was not a decision the union had taken lightly, adding: "The government has had plenty of time to include an explicit provision in the act regarding breaking international law commitments which would have resolved this but it chose not to.

"Civil servants should never be left in a position where they are conflicted between the instructions of ministers and adhering to the Civil Service Code, yet that is exactly what the government has chosen to do.

"This is not an accident, or down to poor drafting. It's a political choice from the government, made not for the good of the country but to avoid upsetting either of the warring factions within its own party."

Mr Penman said the union had to protect the interests of its members and the integrity of the Civil Service Code.

A government spokesperson said: "The Home Office already sought advice from the director general of proprietary and ethics in the Cabinet Office on the issue of the Civil Service Code and claims over the legality of implementing the Rwanda deportation scheme under the new legislation."

The week has kicked off with a huge political story - the resignation of Humza Yousaf - and will end with another, as voters across England and Wales turn out for the local elections.

Sky's political reporter Alexandra Rogers   has looked ahead to a potentially defining night for Rishi Sunak's premiership, when hundreds of council seats, police and crime commissioner jobs, and mayoral posts will be up for grabs.

Read her full explainer below:

The Tory mayor of the West Midlands is sending voters an endorsement from Boris Johnson which urges people to "forget about the government", Sky News can reveal.

Andy Street's campaign website makes no mention of Rishi Sunak on its homepage and is coloured in green rather than Conservative blue, suggesting the mayor is trying to run on his credentials as an independent campaigner rather than under the unpopular Tory brand.

Other campaign literature - including the front page of a campaign "newspaper" seen by Sky News - makes no mention of the Conservative leader.

You can read more from Sky News below:

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local election campaign well under way, Labour is still sitting comfortably ahead, with the Tories trailing behind.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

By Sam Coates , deputy political editor

More than 2,600 seats are up for election in 107 English councils on Thursday.

Now, YouGov has made its final calls for some key contests using the MRP polling method after interviewing almost 9,000 people over two weeks.

Here, exclusively on Sky News, are the headlines. 

We'll start with two key battlegrounds...

By Tomos Evans , Wales reporter

Calls for an investigation into a £200,000 donation to Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething have intensified in recent weeks.

A motion calling for an independent probe into the money was debated in the Senedd on Wednesday and defeated by 27 votes to 25.

But former deputy climate change minister Lee Waters said Mr Gething should do "the right thing" and return the donation.

Mr Gething was elected leader of Welsh Labour in March and succeeded Mark Drakeford as Wales's first minister.

Opposition parties launched a bid to appoint an independent advisor to check whether there was any conflict of interest over the donation during the leadership campaign.

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