It’s no secret that Europe is one of the best places in the world to vacation. From its spectacular landscapes to its vibrant cities, there’s so much to see and experience.
If you’re looking for a new adventure without spending all your money, then visiting Europe might just be the answer for you. These are some of the best countries in Europe to visit this year.
1. Italy
It is difficult to think of Italy without your mouth watering at the notion of the country’s cuisine. This boot-shaped country is home to tomatoes that are so sweet they are comparable to candies, pizzas that are cooked to the point of perfection, and gelato that practically dissolves in your tongue. Gastronomes will find their ideal experience in Italy.
The immaculate architectural and cultural marvels that can be discovered in the old buildings, squares, and museums that are scattered throughout Italy’s bustling cities and small, picturesque towns are even more dazzling than the country’s culinary offerings.
The wonderful town squares of Rome, such as Piazza Navona, St. Peter’s Square, and Piazza Spagna, are a joy to experience and are filled with rich history. Some of the attractions in Rome, such as the Pantheon and the Colosseum, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In addition to the museums that are not to be missed, Florence is home to the iconic Duomo and Ponte Vecchio bridge, both of which are great photo ops.
The waterways of Venice are charming and one-of-a-kind, but the enormous Il Duomo, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Milan, will have you gaping just as much as the stunning ensembles that are shown in the city’s many boutiques.
The countryside is where you’ll have the most genuine experience possible when you visit Italy. It is difficult for tourists to leave this country because of its breathtaking scenery, which they may enjoy while skiing, hiking, swimming, and eating (of course). Lake Como gives visitors an insight into the lifestyles of the world’s elite, while Tuscany is a true winner since it takes visitors back in time with its walls and towers that have remained mostly undisturbed.
Because the Amalfi Coast is so picturesque, the colorful towns that line it are frequently depicted on souvenirs and other items aimed to tourists.
2. France
This gorgeous country is famous for the allure of its natural beauty, as well as its rich artistic and cultural traditions, its mouthwatering cuisine, and its many cultural traditions. In France, there is something that will appeal to every imaginable kind of tourist.
On the French Riviera, you can relax in the warm rays of the sun and maybe even spot a famous face or two. In Provence, you can really let your camera go to town taking pictures of the fields covered in lavender.
Visit the Normandy islet of Mont Saint-Michel, which is on the list of World Heritage Sites maintained by UNESCO. Chamonix, Val d’Isère, and Méribel are three of the best places to go skiing in the French Alps.
In Paris, you can enjoy a meal at a café along the Champs-Elysées, go to a museum, climb the stairs of the Eiffel Tower, or take a romantic stroll down the River Seine with the person you believe to be your true love.
3. Spain
Spain is not just one of the most stunningly gorgeous countries in Europe but also one of the very best. If you visit this enchanted location, your camera will be grateful to you for it for a number of reasons, including the architectural wonders, towering mountain ranges, seaside cliffs, and hilltop settlements. It’s easy to see why Spain was the world’s second most visited country in 2018, with more than 89 million tourists passing through its borders.
The best cities in the country offer a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors. The beautiful Crystal Palace and expansive gardens, in addition to Madrid’s magnificent plazas, may be found in this city.
Horse hooves clattering on the city’s cobblestone streets and church bells ringing out can be heard in the background of Seville’s more romantic and sophisticated atmosphere. Here, you’ll find must-see sights like the magnificent Catedral de Sevilla, the Real Alcázar, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the spacious Plaza de Espaa.
The city of Barcelona is vibrant and diverse, boasting architecture that would make Salvador Dali happy (Casa Mila and Parc Güell, two of the city’s most extraordinary attractions, are not to be missed).
Your spirit will feel better after taking in the restorative sea vistas that Valencia has to offer, while the Costa Brava is home to some of Spain’s most breathtaking beaches.
Do not pass up the opportunity to visit the stunning city of Granada and the world-famous Alhambra palaces.
4. Austria
Austria is one of those nations that, if you’re not careful, can cause you to lose your breath. This wondrous nation is one of the most stunning countries in Europe, since it is encircled by the towering mountains of the Australian Alps and dotted with glistening lakes.
Austria is also one of the countries with the highest musical output. It is practically impossible to go through the numerous city streets of this country without hearing a fragment of a song, particularly one that was written by the well-known Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The former composer of baroque music was born in Salzburg, and his impact may be felt all over the world (his image is even found on chocolate wrappers). During your time in the city, you may explore the old town of Salzburg, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you’re there, you can have lunch in a courtyard, go to a museum, or visit St. Peter’s Abbey.
Another location that is absolutely stunning is Vienna. Other well-known tourist destinations in Vienna include the magnificent City Hall (Rathaus) and the stunning Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), in addition to the ornate palaces (such as Belvedere Palace) and expansive gardens (such as those found at Schonbrunn Palace). Belvedere Palace is a good example.
Because it is situated on both sides of the Danube, Linz is an excellent starting point for trips into the surrounding countryside as well as along the river itself.
Another important center for architecture in Austria is Graz, the country’s second largest city, which features buildings and ruins that date back to the year 800 AD. Climbing the Schlossberg, which is a hill reaching 473 meters and is crowned with a clock tower, is one of the best things to do in Graz and should not be missed. The lovely old town should also not be missed.
5. Croatia
In addition to its status as a masterpiece of the Mediterranean, Croatia is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and its delicious, locally sourced cuisine. It is hard to be anxious in this beautiful archipelago since the residents are so welcoming, there are castles perched on hilltops, well-preserved Roman ruins, and a sea the color of sapphires.
Take the cable car up Srd Hill for the best view of Dubrovnik, often known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” or explore the twisting alleyways that are contained within the towering medieval city walls of Dubrovnik.
After Zagreb, Split is the largest city in Croatia and is known for being one of the most lively cities in the country. Both should absolutely be on your list of places to go. It has been said that the island of Hvar is the “sunniest site in Europe,” so if you want to hit the beach, you should go there.
The ideal location on the Adriatic Sea that Croatia enjoys is undoubtedly its greatest asset. Be sure to go on a boat at some time during your stay in order to explore the archipelago, particularly the enchanting Elafiti Islands, which can be found to the northwest of Dubrovnik.
6. The Netherlands
The Netherlands, also known informally as Holland, provides tourists with a laid-back vacation experience that is rich in art, beauty, and a significant amount of riding.
The area is rather level (making it an ideal place to ride a bike), and it is dotted with well-known windmills and fields that are filled with tulips in the springtime. This region is found in the northwest of Europe (April and May in particular). Keukenhof, commonly referred to as the “Garden of Europe,” is widely considered to be the best location to view them. It can be found in the town of Lisse.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Netherlands is the city of Amsterdam. This area, which is studded with canals and is known for having a sleazy reputation, is actually quite lovely and packed with notable museums (40, to be exact). The Rijksmuseum, the House of Ann Frank, and the Van Gogh Museum are the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
In addition to its ancient buildings, Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague are home to a number of modern buildings that have been designed to minimize their impact on the environment.
In the Netherlands, your options aren’t limited to residing in major urban centers. It is well worth your time to make a detour to visit some of the picturesque fishing villages that dot the shores of Ijsselmeer, particularly Marken, Volendam, and Enkhuizen.
7. Sweden
I’ll bet you’ve never encountered a grumpy Swede before! The Swedish people are known for their polite demeanor and are known to be one of the friendliest groups in all of Scandinavia. It’s easy to understand why they’re in such good spirits, considering the breathtaking scenery all around them, which includes glistening lakes, sun-drenched beaches, snow-capped mountains, and historic walled cities.
If you are seeking for an incredible view of the aurora borealis, Sweden, which can be found in the northern part of Europe and is sandwiched between Norway and Finland, is the place to go. You can go on hikes through the thick forests, canoe trips along the clear waterways, and set up your tent in the broad fields here.
Those who have an appreciation for avant-garde architecture will find that Sweden is home to some of the most unique designs found anywhere in the globe. The city of Stockholm is the most active in Sweden, and it is here that you will find the well-known Vasa Museum, in addition to fashionable stores and restaurants. Skansen is a vast open-air museum in Stockholm, Sweden, that depicts life from the 1720s all the way up until the 1960s.
Gothenburg, also known as Sweden’s “second city,” is an additional destination that should not be missed by beachgoers and foodies both due to the exceptional quality of its eateries.
8. Belgium
Belgium makes up for its small size with a boatload of charm, not to mention attractive medieval villages, sites that are recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, and chocolate that will make your taste buds scream with joy.
Wallonia, located in the south of the country, is rural and speaks French, whereas Flanders, located in the north of the country, is more urban and speaks Dutch. These two regions make up the unofficial division of the country.
La Grande Place, also known as Gote Markt in Dutch, and Place Royal are two of the most magical and historically significant structures in all of Brussels, which makes the city a popular destination for tourists (a.k.a. Koningsplein). In addition, you’ll find wonderful museums here, along with a plethora of unique stores and delectable eateries.
Bruges is a small town in Belgium, yet it has a rich history and is widely considered to be the most attractive town in the country. Its canals thread their way through the city, and arranging a boat ride is an easy way to get beautiful views of the intriguing architecture that can be found throughout the city.
9. Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the most costly nations to visit in Europe; nonetheless, a trip there is more than worthwhile despite the substantial costs. The clouds parted to reveal mountain ranges topped with snow, which rose up from behind the verdant, lush meadows that were populated with sheep (hello, The Matterhorn).
White water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing aficionados will find a glittering welcome at the region’s expansive lakes, such as Lake Geneva, which are scattered throughout the countryside. Small villages such as Gimmelwald exude a storybook appeal that can win over even the most grumpy of tourists with its tiny stores and delectable chocolates that melt in your mouth.
Larger towns in Switzerland such as Zurich, Geneva, Lucerne, and Bern enable tourists to satisfy their cultural and aesthetic needs in a single trip. Within its boundaries are a plethora of outstanding museums, art galleries, stores, and restaurants that provide upscale cuisine.
Zermatt is your one-stop destination for a variety of winter activities, in addition to providing unrivaled Alpine climbing and hiking opportunities.
10. Greece
Greece, one of the most relaxed countries on this list, is an excellent choice for a vacation. Smaller islands have azure domes atop whitewashed buildings, and the brightly colored doors and gates practically beg to be photographed. The sunsets in Santorini are unparalleled. The island of Crete is another tourist hotspot due to its beautiful beaches and quaint mountain villages.
Greece has a gorgeous blue sky, and the sapphire Mediterranean caresses beaches with sand and pebbles in a rainbow of colors, from tan to pink to red.
Incredible ancient remains (including the world-famous Acropolis) may be found in Athens, along with excellent museums, stores, and eateries.
When it comes to dining out, it’s tough to beat Greece’s cuisine. Fresh, seasonal ingredients from the area are used to make delicious treats that are both good for you and full of taste.
11. Portugal
There are castles, beaches, and mountains. Portugal has a lot of beautiful places to see. This is the place to be if you love water views. It has more than 800 kilometers of Atlantic coast.
When you go to the beautiful Azores islands, all your worries will go away right away. They are an archipelago of nine beautiful mountainous islands where you can dive, surf, sail, and watch whales. European tourists love to visit the nearby island of Madeira.
Lisbon is the largest city in the country. It is in a great spot at the mouth of the River Tagus. It has a lot of fun things to do, like a historic castle, a modern aquarium, beautiful town squares, and a park on top of a hill with a great view.
The city of Tomar is also on the water. Along the banks of the Nabo River, its charming cobblestone streets wind around medieval churches, a grand castle, and other old buildings.
12. Germany
Even though Germany isn’t the most romantic European holiday spot, it’s absolutely worth visiting for the breathtaking countryside.
In addition to modern attractions, major cities like Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt also have a wealth of historic architecture, monuments, and museums to satisfy the cultural needs of their visitors. It’s also teeming with stores and eateries, serving both classics like sauerkraut and schnitzels and cutting-edge creations.
You may get away from the hustle and bustle of city life in the quaint little settlements. Such picturesque relics of the past can be seen all over these small settlements. Many historic buildings, like as towers, churches, and homes, are still standing despite damage sustained during the war, adding to the rural areas’ attraction.
Bavaria’s Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, and Nördlingen will put a smile on your face and a strain on your camera’s shutter button.
13. England
England has a way of quickly winning over guests. This wet island is worth the trip, but you should prepare for it by packing an umbrella.
Do you yearn to play among the sheep as you hike across hills and dales in a picturesque rural setting? Travel to the Lake District, a paradise so verdant and bountiful that you’ll want to set up camp and remain for days.
Do you prefer to shop? Visit London, the world-famous metropolis where each season’s most cutting-edge yet modest fashions may be found. You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to excellent dining establishments.
Want to see some legendary castles? You can find them in plenty in a wide variety of cities, from the massive walled metropolis of York to the little riverside town of Warwick.
If you’re looking for quaint, picture-perfect villages straight out of a fairy tale, your search should begin with the quaint towns of England. The flawless Cotswolds are hard to imagine without actually visiting. They call their beautiful homes “honey stone” because of the hue of the stone they use to construct them. This land is so full with history and culture that it has an unmistakable allure.
14. Denmark
Even though it’s not very big, Denmark packs a stunning visual punch. This Nordic shining star is a place where people care about the environment and welcome tourists to a peaceful and stunning landscape. As a result, it’s simple to unwind on the beach by the Baltic Sea or to canoe or fish in one of the many glistening lakes or rivers.
Communities of timber houses and immaculately landscaped gardens dot its 450-island archipelago, while larger urban centers feature palaces, museums, and even amusement parks (like Copenhagen, with Christiansborg Palace and Tivoli Gardens).
From the opulent Kronborg Castle to the ultra-modern National Maritime Museum in Helsingor and the vibrant shops and restaurants of Copenhagen’s Nyhaven harbor, the Danish architectural style is hard to beat. Roskilde is renowned for its abundance of museums and Viking heritage.
Having trouble getting around? In this environmentally conscious nation, you’ll more likely encounter bike traffic than car congestion. In the rural areas, where windmills are prevalent, cycling is the preferred mode of transportation.
15. Iceland
Some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth can be found in Iceland, a mighty land dotted with wonders. This uninhabited island has become one of the most sought-after vacation spots in the world.
Tourists flock there to marvel at the bizarre landscape. Glaciers, fjords, volcanoes, ice caves, waterfalls, and mountain ranges are all accessible via foot travel.
Visitors to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik can spend a day sightseeing, shopping, dining, and making friends with the city’s incredibly hospitable locals. Participate in a whale-watching excursion, swim in the Blue Lagoon, or explore the Hekla volcano’s lava fields.
Vatnajökull is the largest (and most magnificent) glacier in Europe, and you should definitely go see it. A spectacular display of the northern lights awaits visitors at night, especially between September and April.
16. Ireland and Northern Ireland
The greenery of Ireland’s Emerald Isle is unparalleled in its beauty. With its rich history, bleating sheep, and welcoming locals, this stunning island is sure to take your breath away. When you factor in the country’s lively music, countless breathtaking attractions, and one-of-a-kind activities, you may never want to leave Ireland.
The Ring of Kerry, the rugged Cliffs of Moher, and the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway are all examples of how Mother Nature can be awe-inspiring (the top tourist attraction in Northern Ireland). Bring your camera because you won’t want to forget these breathtaking sights.
As we are on the subject of Northern Ireland, we recommend a trip to the city of Belfast, where you can enjoy sights like the Titanic Quarter, the Titanic Belfast Museum, and the Botanic Gardens.
You can’t miss Dublin. This vibrant city has so much to offer, from its museums and galleries to its restaurants and bars.
If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of the big cities, Ireland’s small towns are where the heart is. Kilkenny Castle, the Gallus Oratory in Dingle, and the lively harbor town of Kinsale ensure that visitors of all ages will find something to love in Ireland.
17. Norway
There are fjords, mountains, and lakes galore! Norway has mastered the art of captivating tourists. It can be difficult to decide what to do first, as there are numerous notable attractions.
In a setting so breathtaking it will take your breath away, you can go on a hunt for the northern lights or enjoy an action-packed vacation of hiking, skiing, or white water rafting. Your vacation in Norway will be wonderful no matter what you do there.
You don’t want to have that much fun in the great outdoors, do you? Don’t worry; the capital city of Oslo is jam-packed with exciting attractions. In addition to museums and the Vigeland Sculpture Park, visitors to Oslo can dine at some of the world’s finest restaurants.
Sognefjord is the longest and one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway. Sognefjord is a 204-kilometer long and 6,905-meter deep fjord that is home to many breathtaking tourist attractions.
Lessard is another must-see gem with a picture-perfect location. Numerous exciting activities await you in lesund, Norway, outside of simply admiring the city’s stunning Art Nouveau buildings, exploring the harbor, and hanging out in Town Park.
18. Czech Republic
The tiny Czech Republic is packed with intricate historical monuments, vibrant music, and delectable food, and yet it is one of the most affordable countries in Europe in which to travel. In addition to that, it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.
It is not difficult to comprehend why Prague is regarded as the premier tourist destination in all of the Czech Republic. This pretty and lively city is an absolute must-see because it lies at the center of this breathtakingly beautiful region. Wenceslas Square, Prague Castle, and the Charles Bridge are just a few of the many impressive tourist attractions that can be found in Prague, in addition to numerous shops and restaurants that are friendly to visitors’ wallets. In point of fact, many of the must-see attractions in Prague are ranked among the top tourist destinations in the rest of the Czech Republic.
In the Czech Republic, Prague is not the only city that is worth visiting; hot spots such as esk Krumlov in the south (its castle is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Monument) and Kutna Hora (home to the Baroque chapel, Sedlec Ossuary) are spectacular. Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic.
A revitalizing dip in a thermal spa can be had by traveling to Karlovy Vary, which is also known by the name Carlsbad. Other popular tourist destinations in Karlovy Vary include the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, which dates back to the 19th century, the Museum of Glass MOSER, and the Market Colonnade, which also dates back to the 19th century.
19. Turkey
Many people’s first associations with Turkey are with the Hagia Sophia Mosque or the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, and their mouths water at the thought of Turkish cuisine. Antalya, known for its Dunden Waterfall, Bursa, for its remarkable Grand Mosque, and Sanliurfa, for its lovely Pool of Abraham, are just a few of the great cities in this legendary land.
In addition to the aforementioned mosque, the Hippodrome, and a glittering palace, Istanbul is also home to beautiful parks.
Many beautiful islands in Turkey are perfect for sunbathing and taking in the Mediterranean vistas. Gkçeada is a quiet wonderland best visited during the bustling summer months, whereas Bozcaada is relaxed yet luxurious, framed by soft sandy beaches.
