The Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Travel in Europe: 20 Unforgettable Destinations

If you’re reading this, you’re likely standing on the cusp of an incredible journey—the planning phase for a European adventure. Let me tell you, choosing the best places to travel in Europe is both thrilling and overwhelming. How do you possibly narrow down a continent packed with 44 distinct countries, thousands of years of history, and landscapes ranging from sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches to jagged Arctic fjords?

It’s a huge task, but that’s exactly why I’m here. As someone who has spent years exploring the cobbled streets, sampling the local cuisine, and navigating the sometimes-confusing train schedules of this incredible continent, I want to share my expertise. We’re going far beyond the standard list of capital cities. We’ll explore the iconic must-sees, the hidden gems, and the specific countries that cater to your unique travel style, ensuring you find the absolute best travel destinations in Europe for your next vacation.

My goal is to give you a comprehensive, highly practical guide that helps you define your perfect itinerary, whether you’re planning a quick two-week trip or a multi-month backpacking epic. Get ready to dive deep into the heart of the continent and discover where to travel Europe next!

Why Europe Remains the Ultimate Travel Destination (Setting the Stage)

Before we start listing destinations, let’s quickly touch on why Europe consistently ranks high on everyone’s bucket list. It’s not just the history; it’s the density and the ease of movement that make it unique. If you’re looking for the best trips in Europe, you’ll quickly realize that you can wake up in a medieval German castle and be enjoying fresh Italian pasta by dinner, all thanks to efficient infrastructure and open borders.

Diversity and Accessibility

The sheer diversity is staggering. Within a few hundred miles, the language, the architecture, the food, and even the climate can change entirely. You can experience the modern efficiency of Scandinavia, the romantic chaos of Southern Europe, and the resilient spirit of Eastern Europe, often within the span of one trip. This accessibility makes Europe one of the best destinations to visit in Europe for travelers who love variety. Furthermore, the extensive rail networks and the budget airline market have made european city travel easier and more affordable than ever before. We really are spoiled for choice when figuring out where to visit in Europe.

Historical Depth and Culture

Every city here tells a story. When you walk through Rome, you are literally treading on foundations laid 2,000 years ago. When you stand in front of the Eiffel Tower, you are witnessing a symbol of human ingenuity from the Industrial Age. For history buffs and cultural enthusiasts, Europe offers a constant stream of discovery. It’s the ultimate living museum, and understanding this context is key to fully appreciating the best places to travel in Europe.

The Best Places to Travel in Europe: Iconic Cities and Cultural Hubs (The Classics)

When people ask me for the best cities to travel to in Europe, I always start with the classics. These cities have earned their reputation for a reason—they offer unmatched culture, history, and infrastructure that make for seamless travel experiences. If this is your first time crossing the pond, these are the essential starting points.

Paris, France: The City of Light and Romance

Ah, Paris. It lives up to the hype. While many tourists rush through the Louvre and tick off the Eiffel Tower, the true magic of Paris lies in its neighborhoods (arrondissements). I highly recommend you spend time simply walking the Seine, getting lost in Le Marais, or enjoying a picnic lunch in the Luxembourg Gardens.

Why Paris is one of the best cities in Europe to visit:

• Unmatched Art and Architecture: Beyond the Louvre, explore the Musée d’Orsay for Impressionist masterpieces, or the smaller, intimate Musée Rodin.
• Culinary Excellence: From corner crêperies to Michelin-starred dining, French food culture is paramount. Don’t skip the patisseries—a croissant in Paris is a spiritual experience.
• Vibe: The Parisian ambiance is infectious. It’s a city that demands you slow down, enjoy a coffee on a terrace, and observe the world passing by.

If you are looking for best vacation spots in Europe that offer a perfect blend of high culture and everyday charm, Paris should be at the top of your list.

Rome, Italy: Where History Comes Alive

If you want to feel the weight of history, Rome is the best place to go in Europe. It’s not pristine; it’s wonderfully chaotic, filled with ancient ruins nestled right beside modern apartments. You can literally reach out and touch 2,000 years of civilization.

Must-do’s in Rome:

• The Big Three: The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are non-negotiable. Hire a guide to truly understand the historical context.
• Vatican City: A country within a city! Seeing St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) requires pre-booking, but the scale of the art and architecture is breathtaking.
• Food Culture: Forget quick tourist traps. Find a true trattoria in the Trastevere neighborhood. Carbonara, cacio e pepe, and pizza al taglio are mandatory.

Rome provides one of the most intense and rewarding cultural experiences, making it a cornerstone for anyone planning europe travel destinations.

London, UK: A Global Metropolis with Village Charm

London is massive, diverse, and surprisingly easy to navigate thanks to the Tube (subway). What I love about London is its ability to feel simultaneously modern and steeped in tradition. You can witness the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace in the morning and attend a cutting-edge theatre performance in the West End that evening.

Why London is an essential stop:

• Free Museums: The British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern are all world-class and free to enter, making London one of the most budget-friendly best cities to go to in europe for culture vultures.
• Neighborhood Hopping: Don’t stay just in the center. Explore the trendy markets of Shoreditch, the charming streets of Notting Hill, or the intellectual vibe of Bloomsbury.
• Green Spaces: Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Hampstead Heath offer massive urban escapes when you need a break from the hustle.

Barcelona, Spain: Gaudí’s Mediterranean Masterpiece

Barcelona offers a unique blend of coastal relaxation and intense artistic energy. It’s vibrant, loud, and utterly unforgettable. The Catalan capital is defined by the whimsical, organic architecture of Antoni Gaudí, which gives the city a distinct, playful personality.

Key Barcelona experiences:

• Gaudí Trail: Visiting Sagrada Familia (book tickets months ahead!), Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and La Pedrera is essential.
• Beach Life: Barceloneta Beach provides urban sand and sea right next to the city center.
• Tapas Culture: Forget dinner reservations. The best way to eat here is hopping from bar to bar (or tapas bar) between 8 PM and midnight, sampling small plates and soaking in the social atmosphere.

Barcelona is truly one of the best destinations to visit in Europe if you crave a mix of culture, late-night energy, and seaside relaxation.

Vienna, Austria: Imperial Grandeur and Musical Heritage

For travelers who appreciate elegance, classical music, and café culture, Vienna is a magnificent choice. This city, the former heart of the Habsburg Empire, retains its imperial grandeur through stunning palaces like Schönbrunn and the Hofburg.

Why Vienna shines:

• Classical Music: Home to Mozart, Strauss, and Beethoven, attending an opera or a classical concert here is a profound experience.
• Café Culture: Vienna’s historic coffee houses are UNESCO-protected cultural institutions. Spending an afternoon sipping strong coffee and eating Sachertorte is mandatory.
• Museum Quarter: A fantastic centralized hub for modern and contemporary art, contrasting beautifully with the baroque architecture found elsewhere.

Hidden Gems and Emerging European Travel Destinations (Off the Beaten Path)

While the iconic cities are crucial, sometimes the best places to visit in Europe are those that surprise you—the places that haven’t been entirely overrun by mass tourism yet. If you’ve done the main circuit or are seeking a more authentic, perhaps slightly more affordable experience, these hidden gems offer immense rewards.

Ljubljana, Slovenia: Green Capital, Fairy-Tale Vibe

Slovenia is arguably the best country to visit in Europe if you want breathtaking natural beauty combined with charming, manageable urban centers. Ljubljana, its capital, feels like a miniature Prague, but cleaner, quieter, and centered around a pedestrianized river embankment.

Why Ljubljana deserves your attention:

• Commitment to Green Space: Ljubljana has been named Europe’s Green Capital. Its center is car-free, making walking and cycling the preferred modes of transport.
• Dragon Bridge and Castle: The central castle provides stunning views, and the city’s dragon iconography gives it a magical, mythological feel.
• Proximity to Nature: It serves as a perfect base for exploring Lake Bled and the Julian Alps, which are easily accessible via bus or rental car.

Ljubljana offers a relaxed, high-quality experience that demonstrates why sometimes, the smaller capitals are the best travel spots in Europe.

Porto, Portugal: History, Wine, and Coastal Beauty

While Lisbon gets the lion’s share of attention, Porto, the second-largest city, offers a more rugged, authentic Portuguese experience centered around the Douro River. It is the birthplace of Port wine and boasts stunning architecture characterized by colorful tiled façades (azulejos).

What makes Porto special:

• Ribeira District: This colorful, bustling riverside area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for enjoying dinner and watching the traditional rabelo boats glide by.
• Port Wine Cellars: Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge (designed by a student of Eiffel) into Vila Nova de Gaia to tour the numerous wine cellars and enjoy tastings.
• Livraria Lello: Often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, its Neo-Gothic staircase is rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling during her time in Porto.

Porto is definitely one of the best places to go in Europe for travelers who appreciate good food, excellent wine, and dramatic cityscapes without the massive crowds of Lisbon or Rome.

Kraków, Poland: Medieval Charm and Modern Energy

Kraków is a city of profound history and vibrant modern life. Its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town (Stare Miasto) is one of the largest in Europe and incredibly atmospheric.

Highlights of a Kraków trip:

• Rynek Główny (Main Square): The heart of the city, dominated by the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica, is buzzing year-round. It’s a wonderful spot for people-watching.
• Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter): This district is a cultural hub, rich in history, quirky cafes, and independent art galleries.
• Historical Significance: While somber, a necessary trip to nearby Auschwitz-Birkenau provides crucial historical context that defines the region.

Kraków offers exceptional value and deep cultural immersion, proving that Eastern Europe contains some of the best travel destinations in Europe.

Best Countries to Visit in Europe for Specialized Interests (Thematic Travel)

When deciding where to travel Europe, it often helps to focus on what you want out of the trip. Are you seeking adrenaline-pumping hikes, endless sunbathing, or deep historical dives? Here are the best countries to travel in Europe categorized by interest.

For Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers: Norway and Switzerland

If your ideal trip involves dramatic landscapes, crisp air, and world-class hiking, look no further than Norway and Switzerland.

Norway: Fjords and the Northern Lights

Norway is stunningly beautiful, though undeniably expensive. The rewards, however, are unparalleled. The Western Fjords (like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord) are UNESCO sites that simply must be seen to be believed. The famous ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ itinerary offers a fantastic route via rail, bus, and ferry, showing you some of the best travel spots in Europe for scenery. If you travel during the winter, the northern regions offer the spectacle of the Northern Lights.

Switzerland: Alpine Perfection

Switzerland offers postcard-perfect landscapes year-round. From the snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau near Interlaken to the pristine lakes and charming villages like Lucerne and Zermatt (home of the Matterhorn), the entire country is an adventure playground. The efficiency of the Swiss rail system also makes it incredibly easy to cover a lot of ground in comfort, solidifying its place among the best places to travel in Europe for seamless adventure travel.

For Beach Bums and Island Hoppers: Greece and Croatia

If you need guaranteed sun, sparkling blue water, and delicious seafood, the Southern European coastlines and islands are your calling.

Greece: Ancient Ruins and Aegean Blues

Greece offers a sublime combination of history and relaxation. You can spend a few days exploring the majesty of Athens (the Acropolis is a must) before hopping on a ferry to the islands.

• Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos): Famous for iconic white-washed villages and vibrant nightlife.
• Crete: The largest island, offering diverse landscapes, ancient Minoan ruins, and incredible hiking through gorges.

Greece consistently ranks among the best vacation spots in Europe because of its perfect balance of culture, food, and stunning Mediterranean scenery.

Croatia: The Dalmatian Coast

Croatia has exploded in popularity, and for good reason. Its coastline along the Adriatic is spectacular, featuring crystal-clear water and thousands of islands.

• Dubrovnik: Famous for its medieval walls (and Game of Thrones settings), this city is breathtakingly beautiful.
• Split: A vibrant city built around the ancient Diocletian’s Palace.
• Hvar and Korčula: Popular islands known for their beauty and laid-back atmosphere.

Croatia is a phenomenal choice for those seeking europe travel destinations that blend historical coastal cities with easy access to beautiful island escapes.

For History Buffs and Ancient Wonders: Italy and Germany

While history is everywhere in Europe, certain countries allow you to deeply immerse yourself in pivotal historical periods.

Italy: Roman Empire to Renaissance

We already covered Rome, but Italy’s historical depth extends far beyond the capital. Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, offering masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli. Pompeii and Herculaneum offer haunting glimpses into Roman daily life frozen in time. Venice provides a unique historical landscape built on water. No list of the best travel destinations in Europe is complete without multiple mentions of Italy.

Germany: WWII, Medieval Castles, and Modern Resilience

Germany’s history is complex and fascinating. Berlin offers crucial insights into 20th-century history, including the Cold War and the remnants of the Berlin Wall. However, Germany also boasts spectacular medieval history—think of the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria or the incredible Gothic cathedrals like Cologne Cathedral. For those interested in engineering and culture, the Bavarian Alps and cities like Munich offer a wonderful balance.

For Foodies and Culinary Explorers: Spain and France

If your trip revolves around your stomach (and mine often does!), Spain and France are vying for the title of best country to visit in Europe.

Spain: Tapas, Paella, and Regional Diversity

Spanish cuisine is incredibly diverse, reflecting its varied geography. In the North (Basque Country), you’ll find the world-renowned pintxos (small skewers) in San Sebastián. In Valencia, you’ll find authentic paella. In Andalusia, you’ll enjoy the sherry and fried fish. The culture of late-night dining and communal eating makes exploring the food scene one of the most fun aspects of traveling here.

France: Wine, Cheese, and Gastronomic Perfection

French cuisine is globally influential. While Paris offers refined dining, exploring the regions is essential. Bordeaux and Burgundy are necessary stops for wine enthusiasts. Provence offers Mediterranean flavors, and Lyon is often cited as the gastronomic capital of France, known for its hearty, traditional bouchons. If you prioritize exquisite dining, France offers some of the best trips in Europe imaginable.

Planning Your Perfect European Itinerary: Practical Tips for Maximizing Your Trip

Now that we have a solid list of the best places to travel in Europe, let’s talk logistics. A flawless itinerary requires careful planning, especially when crossing borders and dealing with different cultures.

Determining the Best Time to Go

The best time to visit often dictates which europe travel destinations you choose.

1. High Season (June–August): Beautiful weather, but peak crowds and prices, especially in Mediterranean areas like Italy, Greece, and Spain. If you choose these months, book accommodations and major attractions well in advance.
2. Shoulder Seasons (April–May and September–October): In my experience, these are the best times to visit. The weather is usually pleasant, crowds are manageable, and prices drop slightly. Southern Europe is still warm, and Northern Europe is emerging from the cold.
3. Low Season (November–March): Ideal for city breaks in places like London, Paris, or Berlin where indoor attractions (museums, theatre) are the focus. Avoid island destinations, as many services shut down.

Navigating Logistics: Trains, Planes, and Automobiles

Efficient european city travel is what makes multi-destination trips possible.

Rail Travel: The Backbone of Europe

The rail network is extensive and fantastic. For covering long distances (e.g., Paris to Rome), night trains can save you a hotel night. For regional travel, high-speed trains (like the TGV in France or the Frecciarossa in Italy) are fast and comfortable. Consider a Eurail or Interrail pass if you plan on visiting three or more countries, though sometimes individual point-to-point tickets bought in advance are cheaper.

Budget Airlines: Necessary but Tricky

Airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer incredibly cheap flights, which can be essential for covering vast distances (e.g., London to Athens). However, be vigilant about luggage restrictions and airport locations, as budget carriers often use airports far from the city center. Always factor in the cost and time of commuting to and from those outer airports.

Rental Cars: For Scenic Routes Only

I generally advise against renting a car for city-to-city travel, as parking is expensive and traffic is congested in the best cities to go to in europe. However, a car is essential if you plan to explore rural areas like the Scottish Highlands, the Tuscan countryside, or the Dordogne region of France.

Budgeting for the Best Trips in Europe

Europe can be expensive, but careful planning helps. Remember, the cost difference between the East and the West is substantial.

Region	Example Countries	Average Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
Expensive West/North	Switzerland, Norway, UK, France	€150 – €250+
Mid-Range South/Central	Italy, Spain, Germany, Austria	€100 – €180
Value East	Portugal, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary	€60 – €120

If you are looking for the most budget-friendly best places to travel in Europe, focus heavily on Portugal, Poland, Hungary (Budapest), and the Balkans.

Mastering European City Travel: Expert Advice

Traveling through Europe’s dense urban centers requires a specific set of skills. Here are my final expert tips for making your european city travel smooth and enjoyable.

Accommodation Strategies: Choosing Your Base

When selecting accommodation in the best cities to visit in Europe, location is everything.

• Prioritize Transit Links: Being near a major metro or train station saves immense time and money on taxis.
• Balance Centrality and Noise: In places like Rome or Barcelona, staying right in the historical core often means dealing with intense noise late into the night. Look for accommodation one or two streets removed from the main squares for a better night’s sleep.
• Embrace Apartments: For trips longer than a few days, renting an Airbnb or similar apartment (especially those with kitchenettes) can significantly reduce food costs and give you a feel for local life.

Cultural Etiquette: Being a Respectful Traveler

When you visit the best places to travel in Europe, remember that you are a guest in someone’s home. A little effort goes a long way.

• Language Basics: Learn “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” in the local language. Even if you switch to English immediately, starting with a local greeting shows respect.
• Dining Times: Especially in Spain, Portugal, and Italy, lunch and dinner times are much later than in North America. Dining before 8 PM marks you clearly as a tourist; embrace the late-night culture!
• Tipping: Tipping customs vary widely. In many places, a service charge is included, and rounding up to the nearest €5 or €10 is polite, but the high percentage tipping expected in the US is often unnecessary.

The Power of Slow Travel

My absolute best advice for anyone planning a European vacation is this: travel slower. Trying to cram five countries into ten days means you spend more time in transit and less time enjoying the experience. If you limit yourself to just three or four major destinations (spending at least three full days in each), you will have a richer, less stressful, and ultimately more memorable trip. Focus on enjoying the atmosphere, not just checking off landmarks. This approach is the key to truly experiencing the best places to vacation in Europe.

Conclusion: Ready to Discover the Best Places to Travel in Europe?

Europe is a continent of staggering complexity and beauty, offering an incredible array of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you dream of strolling along the Seine in Paris, hiking the majestic Norwegian fjords, or feasting on authentic tapas in Barcelona, the best travel destinations in Europe are waiting for you.

We’ve covered the iconic cities, the hidden gems, and the specialized destinations that offer the best trips in Europe. The next step is yours: pinpoint your passions, choose your ideal region, and start booking. Remember, the most important part of planning is allowing yourself the flexibility to discover the unexpected moments—because those are often the ones you cherish the most.

Start mapping out your adventure today. I promise you, a trip to the best countries to travel in Europe will be the journey of a lifetime!