It’s no secret Europe is filled with cultural points of interest, museums, artwork galleries and the candy buttery scent of freshly baked croissants wafting out of your native bakery. However what are the perfect issues to do in Europe, should you might decide just some?
Nicely, we’ve tried to! And regardless of how onerous we tried to nail it all the way down to a small choice, we actually imagine every of this stuff earns a spot on our extremely coveted listing of the 50 finest issues to do in Europe. Right here’s the last word listing that will help you plan your go to to Europe.
Put up up to date July 2026.
1. Expertise Gaudi Structure in Barcelona
After we shared the 15 finest issues to do in Barcelona, it was unattainable to not have Antoni Gaudí on the listing. In reality, a lot of the listing is made up of Gaudi areas! As a result of the reality is – once you go to Spain, you have to go to Barcelona. And once you go to Barcelona, you have to expertise Gaudi structure. Interval. Be sure you go to as lots of his creations as you may throughout your explorations of Barcelona and once you’re completed, drop by the church of the Sagrada Família, Gaudi’s most spectacular design, to complete the tour.
2. Bathe within the Szechenyi Baths in Budapest
Thermal baths have a protracted historical past all through Europe, however right here in Budapest town thrives off spa tradition. Even within the winter months! The truth is, each locals and visiting vacationers love making their strategy to the general public tub homes, whatever the season. And though it was Roman settlers who found this cities’ therapeutic waters, it’s now Hungarians who hold the posh of bathing alive on this metropolis. And should you’re seeking to go to a shower home, it doesn’t get extra iconic than the Szechenyi Baths.
3. Experience a motorbike alongside the canals of Amsterdam
There may be maybe no capital metropolis in Europe as romantic and ethereal as Amsterdam. And if you wish to take it a step additional, lease your self a motorbike and journey the streets of Amsterdam. Not solely will you are feeling like a neighborhood getting across the metropolis, however you’ll have the ability to cowl way more floor. And because the solar units, make your means by means of Amsterdam iconic canals – this is among the most lovely reminiscences of my complete journey profession!
4. Stroll within the Foothills of the Italian Dolomites
The Italian Dolomites are certainly one of not simply Europe’s, however the world’s, most lovely alpine areas. Whereas within the winter months they turn into a winter wonderland, the hotter local weather means you may get pleasure from extra actions within the space. One of the best months of the yr to go to are from Might by means of to early June, when the solar is shining however the temperature continues to be cool so you may hike by means of the Dolomites comfortably.
Learn extra: These are the perfect small cities in Italy to Discover
5. Go Island Hopping in Greece
There are too many islands in Greece to call all of them and there are too many causes to go to every of them to cowl each single certainly one of them. However alas, we’ll strive! An incredible place to start out your journey is Santorini, probably the most lovely islands on the earth. And once you’re prepared for extra of a celebration vibe, head over to Mykonos. However there are additionally many lesser-known islands like Naxos and Paros that deserve a go to simply as a lot.
Learn extra: 20 Locations to not miss within the Balkans
6. Take a water taxi in Venice
If you end up planning a go to to Venice, you’re prone to have a gondola journey in your agenda. However you understand what’s extra genuine? Ditching the tourist-laden gondolas and as a substitute hopping on board a water taxi to make your means from one cease to the subsequent. That is undoubtedly one of the simplest ways to get round Venice shortly, particularly should you plan on visiting all the points of interest throughout this metropolis constructed on waterways.
7. Wander across the French Riviera
The French Riviera, often known as the Côte d’Azur, is arguably essentially the most lovely and serene area in France. Situated on the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France, the French Riviera is dwelling to superb seaside cities like Saint-Tropez, Cannes and Good. Then in fact, there may be the unbiased state of Monaco, which is actually value a go to whilst you’re exploring the area.
8. Go to the Prague Christmas Markets
There’s by no means a foul time of the yr to go to Prague. Come rain, hail or shine, this metropolis is so charming that the climate is however a backdrop to your metropolis escape. That mentioned, I don’t suppose there’s a greater time of yr to go to Prague than in December. That is when town actually involves life – with countless Christmas markets, road meals stalls, decorations and naturally, mulled wine! So should you’re planning a winter escape in Europe, make sure you add Prague to your central Europe adventures.
9. Expertise the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland
I’ve been lucky sufficient to expertise the Northern lights in a couple of areas, however should you ask me nowhere is extra magical and ethereal than Finnish Lapland. The superbly crafted winter cabins in Finland make for the right foreground object, with the Northern Lights colourfully dancing within the background.
10. Hire a motorbike and cycle to streets of Copenhagen
Now I do know I shouldn’t have favourites, however Copenhagen actually stands out for me as essentially the most pleasurable metropolis to decelerate in Scandinavia. There are lovely streets to discover and one of the simplest ways to see town is to rent a motorbike and be a part of the locals. Plus, don’t miss the prospect to strive the well-known cardamom buns from Juno’s Bakery!
11. Stroll town partitions of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik shortly rose to recognition when it turned one of many most important filming areas for in style HBO collection Recreation of Thrones. And since then, town has been welcoming vacationers in droves. The seaside metropolis can be typically the beginning or finish level for yacht week-goers, that means there’s all the time an enormous inflow of younger travellers by means of the summer season months. No matter why you end up within the metropolis of Dubrovnik, you need to actually profit from your time right here by strolling town partitions. This can be a nice strategy to achieve perspective of town and be taught the historical past as you soak all of it up.
12. Go to Paris within the Spring
For a couple of years in a row, I used to be on a roll visiting Paris each spring. The pandemic in fact had different plans, however for these three or 4 years, it actually was the one occasion of the yr I seemed ahead to most (dare I say it, much more than Christmas!) As a result of should you ask me, there is no such thing as a higher time to go to Paris than within the spring. And so far as spring goes, there’s no higher place to spend it than in Paris. The town is in a protracted slumber over the winter months, so the primary sight of spring, when cherry blossoms start to burst open, brings common pleasure to Parisians. Immediately the streets are full of life, making this a very joyous time to go to town. You’ll see the primary indicators of Spring in March, however the full burst of colors are available April.
13. Discover the Carpathian Mountains, Romania
Romania isn’t all the time on first time journey itineraries to Europe. However should you’re all for getting off the crushed path and venturing additional East, Romania has a lot to supply the inquisitive traveller. When you plan on going fortress looking in Romania, then there’s no higher place to base your self than in Brasov. This metropolis is commonly used as a base to discover castles like Peles Fort and Brasov Fort (often known as Dracula’s Fort.
14. Discover Stockholm’s Creative Metro Stations
Stockholm is definitely certainly one of Europe’s most lovely cities. Effortlessly charming, strolling round Gamla Stan makes it unattainable to smile on the fairytale-like nature of all of it. However what many travellers don’t know, is that there’s one other layer of magnificence in Stockholm – mendacity quietly beneath the floor. Stockholm boasts a few of Europe’s most beautiful metro stations, every of them artistically adorned in several patterns and murals. Be sure you seize the metro someplace and test it out for your self!
15. Discover the outdated city of Verona
Italy is filled with so many lovely cities and small cities, that always the toughest selection is deciding the place you’ll go to and the place you’ll miss out and save for subsequent time. Undoubtedly Rome might be in your bucket listing, as might be Venice in case your price range permits. However what locals (and most travellers) may even let you know, is that if you’re visiting Venice, you may as properly add a stopover or quick keep in Verona. Situated only a quick prepare journey from Venice, Verona is commonly referenced for its affiliation to Romeo and Juliet, being dwelling to the wall of letters. However there may be way more to this metropolis, all of which might simply be found on foot by strolling across the outdated city.
16. Go to Colmar throughout Christmas
When you ask me, Colmar is the prettiest city in France. There, I mentioned it. However it’s true! There may be maybe nowhere else extra fairytale trying in all of Europe, although there are some critical contenders throughout the border on the Rhône. Nonetheless Colmar is actually probably the most charming cities on the continent, so make sure you add it to your French bucket listing. And should you can handle a go to throughout the colder months, Colmar is among the finest locations to expertise the Christmas markets, in addition to the allure and spirit of Christmas that may solely be loved in December.
17. Hike the Cinque Terre coastal space of Italy
The outdated seaside villages that make up Cinque Terre are certainly one of Italy’s hottest and wanted locations. Situated on the Italian Riviera Shoreline, a complete of 5 cities make up this in style location. However what many guests have no idea till they arrive, is you could really hike the path that takes you from one city to the subsequent. Not solely is that this an effective way to soak up the shoreline, however additionally it is a means to make sure you see all the cities that make up Cinque Terre.
18. Get a birdseye view of London
London will not be solely essentially the most visited metropolis in Europe, however typically ranks as essentially the most visited metropolis in your entire world. So it’s little marvel we’re making point out of the English capital on this listing. But when there’s one factor you need to do in London, it will be to see town from above. The reality is, London is a sprawling metropolis. And sure – it’s large! And though guests principally centre their efforts round West London, seeing London from above will permit you to absolutely respect the scale of town.
19. Fly excessive above Cappadocia, Turkey
Chances are high you may have seen Cappadocia earlier than – if solely by means of the lens of Instagram or Pinterest. For many people, Cappadocia is a dreamy vacation spot we’ve solely seen by means of another person’s lens. Distant in Turkey, this location appears like a world away. So that you is likely to be questioning – is it value it? We’ve requested our writers who’ve been lucky sufficient to go to and the unanimous reply is sure, flying excessive above Cappadocia in Turkey actually is as surreal because it appears to be like. And their high tip: ebook your self a resort for at the least 2 or 3 nights. Typically the climate will forestall the balloons from flying and also you don’t wish to come all this manner solely to overlook out!
20. Discover Alberobello
Situated in Italy’s Apulia area, Alberobello has turn into an instagram sensation lately. Due to its charming and photogenic homes, this city is among the most photographed small cities in Italy. And should you’re on the lookout for extra hidden gems in Italy, take a look at our information to the perfect small cities in Italy to discover.
21. Discover the world well-known Cliffs of Moher, Eire
Eire is filled with lovely areas wherever you journey, however there may be nowhere in Eire extra dramatic and iconic because the Cliffs of Moher on the wild west coast. The ocean cliffs are situated in County Clare and could be visited as a day journey from close by Galway. Resulting from their recognition, it’s also possible to be a part of a day journey from Galway should you aren’t self-driving, which makes for a very nice day trip.
Learn extra: 8 Locations you have to go to in Eire
22. Expertise Vienna’s Kaffehauses (Espresso homes)
There are a lot of causes to go to Vienna, the capital metropolis of Austria. However should you ask me, there’s no higher motive or strategy to move time, than to spend your days in Vienna’s well-known kaffehauses. These espresso homes are establishments inside their very own proper and appeal to guests from around the globe, yr spherical. My favourites embody Cafe Central, Cafe Landtmann and Cafe Sperl (to call a couple of!)
23. Sail the coast of Croatia
Croatia has shortly turn into probably the most in style trip spots in all of Europe. And it’s little marvel why! This lovely nation on the Adriatic Sea is a paradise for yacht constitution lovers, with many travellers venturing into Croatia for yacht week yr after yr. So should you fancy crusing the coast of Croatia, you can be spoiled for selection.
24. Row a ship on Slovenia’s Lake Bled
Slovenia must be probably the most underrated international locations in all of Europe. However this landlocked nation packs a punch in the case of lovely locations to find, and essentially the most lovely of these is Lake Bled. This lake is usually thought to be essentially the most lovely and romantic lake in all of Europe. And I’d gave to agree! The easiest way to expertise the lake is to get on the market on it, by rowing a ship from the mainland to the island within the coronary heart of the lake.
25. Take a look at Belgium’s style capital, Antwerp
Belgium is filled with nice cities to discover – Brussels, Ghent and Bruges are a couple of of my favourites (and highly regarded amongst guests!) However many travellers miss out on a go to to Antwerp, which is the style capital of Belgium. This metropolis has quite a bit to supply design fanatics – from artwork galleries to museums and a plethora of idea shops and classic shops to find.
26. Wander across the fairytale city Cesky Krumlov
In case you have been to Prague however you didn’t go to close by Cesky Krumlov, I hate to be the one to let you know that you just missed essentially the most lovely little city in all of Czech Republic, possibly all of Europe. Cesky Krumlov could be reached in a brief bus journey from downtown Prague, with minibuses and public buses departing each day. It’s a nice stopover should you plan to journey onwards from Prague to Austrian cities like Vienna, Salzburg or Linz. I received’t spoil the shock for you, however this city is essentially the most lovely and charming place on earth. Put together to be amazed!
27. Seize a beer in Dublin, Eire
The Irish capital metropolis is filled with nice locations to eat and drink, but when I’m being trustworthy – principally to drink. There may be actually no scarcity of pubs and bars in Dublin, with a pub to be discovered on at the least each road. And whereas issues can get a bit rowdy on weekends (it is a in style selection for buck’s weekends), go to any of the Dublin pubs on a weekday and also you’re virtually assured to have time. There actually isn’t any dangerous time of week to go to to make sure, however you’ll actually have a various expertise relying on what day of the week you select!
28. Discover Switzerland’s Castles
While you consider visiting Switzerland, it’s simple to suppose straight in direction of mountains, ski and snow. In spite of everything, this is among the most wanted areas in Europe to go snowboarding. However there’s way more to get pleasure from in Switzerland exterior of the winter season, particularly should you love exploring fairytale castles.
29. Go to Dracula’s Fort in Romania
Bran Fort (extra popularly generally known as Dracula’s Fort) is certainly one of Romania’s most wanted areas and for followers of the legend, that isn’t onerous to see why. Visiting Dracula’s Fort in Romania is as legendary and surreal as you’d think about, with the fortress being dwelling to the various myths and legends Dracula’s character is made after. To go to, simply make your strategy to Brasov, a close-by city that’s nice for basing your self should you plan on visiting the castles across the area.
30. Uncover Blagaj Tekke, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina typically will get ignored in guidebooks and in style suggestions, however we actually discover it onerous to see why right here at World of Wanderlust! When you ask me, Bosnia and Herzegovina is certainly one of Europe’s finest hidden gems. And though there are a lot of areas value visiting within the nation (Sarajevo and Mostar are two of essentially the most visited), if we needed to decide only one location it will be the ethereal Blagaj Tekke. The monastery constructed into the cliff face is quiet and serene, situated up a small grime path and have to be seen to be believed.
31. Drive by means of Provence in Summer season
France is filled with enviable areas however nowhere is extra wanted than Provence, particularly in the summertime months. A go to to Provence in summer season is full of citrus fruits, white wines, bicycle rides into the village and lengthy days that soften into lengthy evenings. Put merely, that is the great life!
32. Hike the Caucasus in Georgia
Situated between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus span numerous international locations resembling Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and elements of Southern Russia. And should you’re on the lookout for an introduction to the area, maybe the perfect vacation spot to expertise the Caucasus for the primary time is Georgia, which has swung its doorways huge open to vacationers lately and is embarking on advertising campaigns to proceed to develop its tourism sector. The area is filled with dramatic mountain ranges, making for an epic backdrop to your adventures.
33. Wander the Outdated City of Bruges
If I needed to listing all of my favorite cities in Europe, I can say with out shadow of a doubt Bruges could be in my high three. There’s simply one thing so effortlessly charming about Bruges, a metropolis constructed on canals and with sufficient chocolate retailers to final you a lifetime! This metropolis has a lot outdated world allure and all of it may be discovered within the coronary heart of the Outdated City. So take your time – wander round and don’t make plans. This can be a metropolis finest found on foot, specializing in the journey reasonably than the vacation spot.
34. See Neuschwanstein Fort up shut
I’ll always remember the second I noticed Neuschwanstein Fort in actual life for the primary time (and actually the one time!) As somebody who grew up watching Disney movies (didn’t all of us!?), I used to be itching to see the famed Disney fortress within the flesh. For these of you not privy, the fortress is alleged to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s brand and famed Disney fortress and once you see Neuschwanstein within the flesh, it’s simple to attract comparisons! Whereas it’s also possible to step contained in the fortress and be taught the historical past, the stand out of your day will undoubtedly be the viewing platform the place you may see the fortress bursting out of the forest. It’s actually a sight!
35. Journey on the actual Hogwarts Categorical, Scotland
Now I don’t learn about you, however for me, there was no dream of mine as essential to realize on this lifetime, as entering into Hogwarts. And whereas I can’t say I’ve obtained a letter within the mail (but), I can affirm that I’ve boarded the Hogwarts Categorical in Scotland. Sure, that is actual life! The Hogwarts Categorical was filmed crossing the well-known Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland within the hit movies, however is the truth is an actual life location. So what are you ready for? That is as near magic because it will get.
36. Uncover Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
One other lovely location in Bosnia & Herzegovina that this listing could be incomplete with out is Mostar. There may be solely a brief driving distance between Mostar and Blagaj (talked about earlier), so we recommend you see them each. Mostar is an enthralling small city that gained recognition alongside close by Dubrovnik, which can be named in our Europe bucket listing. Many guests had been intrigued to cross the border and see a few of Bosnia & Herzegovina, which prompted day journeys into Mostar throughout the summer season months. The town is finest explored on foot and with out too many plans, simply wander.
37. Go to Hallstatt, Europe’s prettiest lakeside city
One have a look at Hallstatt in Austria’s alps can have you packing your baggage and on the point of ebook a flight to Europe. Belief me, I do know first hand! However what may shock you is that this beautiful lakeside city is much more lovely in actual life. In reality, the photographs hardly do it justice! So should you’re on the lookout for a romantic location the place fairytales appear actual, that is it.
Learn extra: Learn how to Go to Hallstatt
38. Eat Gelato in Florence
When you ask me, there is no such thing as a prettier metropolis in all of Italy – the truth is I’d go as far as to say nowhere even comes shut. Florence is simply in a league of its personal – with its terracotta rooftops, imposing cathedrals, and countless artwork on show each indoors and outdoors. However the one factor that actually retains me coming again to Florence, I’ve to confess, is the gelato. I’ve by no means seen so many gelaterias in such a compact house! And the flavours? You’d higher imagine you will see the perfect gelato right here in Florence.
39. Stroll by means of Nyhaven, Copenhagen
Copenhagen was all the time a pipe dream for me as it’s certainly one of Europe’s costliest cities (it’s generally named #1 in the most costly cities in Europe, however generally the listing names London or Paris relying on the yr). However regardless of the case, Copenhagen is pricey. That a lot we all know for certain. Nonetheless once I lastly visited, it was definitely worth the wait. This metropolis is so magical and charming, even within the colder months. When you aren’t already conversant in Hygge, you can be quickly!
40. Go to Sweden’s capital metropolis, Stockholm
And whereas we’re in these Northern elements of Europe, this listing wouldn’t be full with out sending you to the Swedish capital, Stockholm. When you’re into style, then there actually isn’t any different metropolis that compares to the road fashion you’ll see on an abnormal day in Stockholm. This metropolis is effortlessly cool and actually springs to life within the hotter months, however is equally charming and cosy in winter. Take your decide!
41. Go to Nuremberg, Germany
Over in Germany, you may wish to add Nuremberg to your listing of adventures, particularly if you’re visiting within the lead as much as Christmas! This metropolis actually places on a present for Christmas with certainly one of Europe’s greatest Christmas markets. So should you’re on the lookout for Christmas spirit and mulled wine, you’ll discover all that and extra in Nuremberg all through December.
42. Expertise the actual Sound of Music
When you’re a fan of the Sound of Music, you completely can’t go to Europe with out stopping in to Salzburg in Austria. Not solely is that this one of many main backdrops for the movie (that is the truth is the place your entire crew stayed throughout filming), however additionally it is the beginning place of Mozart. So if nothing else, this metropolis actually is musical!
43. Go to Rome, the Everlasting Metropolis
You understand what they are saying – all roads result in Rome. And we have now to agree on that one. The primary time I visited Rome I visited the Trevvi fountain and threw my cash with the hopes of coming again. I’ve since been again, twice, however nonetheless don’t suppose I’ve had sufficient. This historic metropolis is filled with ruins and artefacts, making it a should go to location in your journey to Europe.
44. Stroll the streets of Tallinn’s Outdated City
When you haven’t but heard of Tallinn, the capital metropolis of Estonia, then now’s pretty much as good a time as any. I typically inform individuals this metropolis is pulled straight out of a fairytale ebook and as you wander across the Outdated City, you’ll quickly see why. There’s a sufficient allure at each nook, that you can be forgiven for pondering you may have stepped into a movie scene!
45. Discover Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is the capital metropolis of Serbia and additionally it is the capital of partying this aspect of Europe. However there’s way more to Belgrade than a fantastic night time membership scene, nevertheless this may very well be motive sufficient to go to! The town is effortlessly charming and way more reasonably priced than different European capitals.
46. Swim in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
Nearing out the tip of our listing, you didn’t suppose I’d full a European bucket listing with out point out of the Blue Lagoon, did you? However in fact not! The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most well-known location, with travellers coming from close to and much to swim within the therapeutic waters. Even the Kardashians made some extent of visiting throughout their time in Reykjavik.
47. Discover Norway’s Fjordlands
Norway is in a category of its personal – with epic mountains, multi-day treks and among the world’s most lovely fjords to find by boat or cruise ship. For me, I selected the latter. And I really wouldn’t change a factor! Becoming a member of a cruise across the fjords of Norway is an effective way to see the highlights of the west coast of Norway. You’ll get up in a brand new location day-after-day, plus you may depart from the South of England that means a fast stopover in London.
48. Marvel at Centuries of Artwork contained in the Louvre, Paris
With a whopping 35,000 items of artwork contained in the famed partitions of the Louvre, it will take you a powerful 200 days to see each piece of artwork should you spent simply 30 seconds each bit. If that isn’t unbelievable, I don’t know what’s! So should you plan on visiting the Louvre, plan forward to your go to.
49. Step inside Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is legendary the world over being the house of the Queen. Nonetheless it was not too long ago reported that the Queen could be shifting to Windsor Fort as her full time residence, but the palace within the coronary heart of London stays one of many nice bucket listing locations all through Europe. You possibly can marvel on the palace from exterior, watch the altering of the guard, or purchase your self a ticket to tour the within of the fortress.
50. Go to Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
We’d have saved the perfect for final with the unbelievable Hagia Sophia, as soon as the principal setting for Byzantine imperial ceremonies, resembling coronations. These days, it sits ever as spectacular overlooking Istanbul and is often known as the Holy Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque. Put together to be amazed!
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