The European continent is home to an exciting amalgamation of cultures. Hence, an avid traveler should take the time to visit this lovely continent. No continent on earth is more densely packed with such a variety of cultures and experiences. A traveler should aim to see at least three of the continent's major cities, as this will offer a sense of the cultural diversity of the region.
It can be a great place to meet people and fellow travelers as well and you can also travel cheap especially in May and June or October and November. The eastern parts of Europe attract with its rich history, magnificent architecture and cultural experiences.
More and more travelers will replace the most traditional weekend cities like London, Paris and Barcelona, the cities located to the east of Europe. Europe is a continent and hence it is impossible to explore it in just one trip.
With a history that has shaped the globe, cultures that change every few hundred miles, and natural beauty that stretches from the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean to the frosty fjords of Scandinavia, it's not surprising that you're looking to travel to Europe for the first time.
Europe might be one of the best destination for the following reasons. Europe is home to some of the world's most important cultural attractions, from museums and art galleries to monuments, cathedrals and castles. You can explore ruins, monuments and natural wonders without the hassle of arranging transport from one location to another.
The cruise destinations around the Mediterranean give you the opportunity to experience new cultures, traditions and languages. There are more than 100 cruise ships that sail in the Mediterranean, covering all budgets and tastes - from luxury liners to smaller charters. Europe has been at the forefront of human development and invention throughout history, creating some of the world's most influential societies and empires over centuries of trade, war and colonization.
No matter where you go in Europe, you'll find traces of civilizations' past, sometimes dating back thousands of years. You can visit castles and palaces, walk down cobblestone streets that have been there for centuries or marvel at ancient structures like Stonehenge and the Acropolis. Europe has a breathtaking natural beauty that's showcased in everything from snow-capped mountains to lush rolling hills, wide sandy beaches, dramatic coastlines and stunning sunsets.
Explore the rich culture and history of Paris or the rolling hills of Tuscany and Provence. Relax on the beach in Algarve, Portugal or learn to surf in Bali, Indonesia. From ancient ruins to modern metropolises and everything in between, there's something for every traveler to enjoy. Europe has a rich tradition of fine food and wine that's centered on regional specialties using fresh local ingredients prepared in traditional ways. There's nothing like eating in an authentic Italian restaurant in Italy or drinking real French wine in France.
Embark on a journey through Europe, a continent that offers an extraordinary array of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. From the sun-kissed Mediterranean shores to the rugged northern fjords, Europe’s diversity is unmatched, making it a top destination for travelers seeking history, adventure, and culinary delights.
Start in the West, where cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam offer a deep dive into the rich tapestry of art, history, and modern urban life. Visit the Louvre in Paris to see the Mona Lisa, explore the historic landmarks of London such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, or cruise the canals of Amsterdam, a city known for its artistic heritage.
Venture into Central Europe where Prague, Vienna, and Budapest are jewels of architectural beauty and historical depth. Walk through Prague’s Old Town with its Astronomical Clock, savor a slice of Sachertorte in a traditional Viennese café, or relax in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths.
Head South to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle in Italy, Greece, and Spain. Discover Rome’s ancient ruins, Athens’ Acropolis, and the vibrant markets of Barcelona. Enjoy the pristine beaches of the Greek islands or the rolling hills of Tuscany, where culinary and vinicultural pleasures await.
Journey to the North for the dramatic landscapes of Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Experience the midnight sun, explore the fjords of Norway, and immerse yourself in the innovative design and sustainable living of cities like Stockholm and Helsinki.
Don't overlook Eastern Europe, with its rich history and vibrant culture. From the medieval charm of Tallinn, Estonia, to the historic battlesites in Poland, and the colorful buildings of Croatia’s coast, Eastern Europe offers a blend of old and new, traditional and modern.
Celebrate during Europe’s festivals, from Spain’s La Tomatina to Germany’s Oktoberfest, and the spectacular Northern Lights in Iceland. Each event adds a unique flavor to the European experience, providing memories that last a lifetime.
Discover Europe – a continent where every country tells a different story, every city offers a new adventure, and every meal is a celebration of local flavors. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, enjoying a night out in one of Europe’s vibrant cities, or hiking through breathtaking landscapes, Europe offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable experiences.
 | European Bucket List |
Of course, since there are so many places to be, it can be cumbersome to pick which one to visit. That said, we have listed the best places to visit in Europe that you shouldn't miss:
1. Bonifacio, Corsica
A place that you might not be familiar with is the beautiful French island with Corsica's name. Corsica is one of the 18 regions of France, and it's drop-dead gorgeous. If you decide to drop by this island, one of the cities you should go to would be Bonifacio. The town of Bonifacio is at the southern tip of the island and is right by the Mediterranean Sea.
Since it's right by the sea, you can expect many water-based leisure activities when you're in the city. But if you don't want to spend the entire time you're there lounging and enjoying the turquoise waters, you can stop by the many sites and spots in the city too.
2. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
The Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is one of the most beautiful natural sights in the country. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is also the first national park ever in Croatia. The national park is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site to ensure that the natural land and waterscapes receive the utmost protection.
If you plan on making a trip to the Plitvice Lakes National Park and want to make the most out of it, you might want to devote at least two days there. The verdant forests and stunning waterfalls lead to 16 gorgeous blue lakes that you shouldn't miss.
3. Colmar, France
France is always at the top of the list when it comes to European destinations that people worldwide visit. However, instead of focusing solely on Paris, you might want to branch out a bit more. There are plenty of other gorgeous destinations in France other than the city of Paris. For example, Colmar is one of the fascinating places in France.
Colmar preserved many of its older buildings, and you can see it everywhere. It has the most exciting architecture ever. Besides the architecture, you can also enjoy some local Alsace wine and local cuisine. You should expect a blend of French and German cuisine together when describing Alsatian food.
Embark on a magical journey to Colmar, a charming town nestled in the Alsace region of France. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered medieval and Renaissance buildings, Colmar is often referred to as 'Little Venice' due to its beautiful waterways and vibrant floral displays.
Begin your exploration in the Old Town, where you can admire the well-preserved architecture that makes Colmar a living museum of French and German Renaissance style. Wander through the narrow lanes and past ancient buildings, all the while soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of this fairy-tale town.
Take a leisurely boat ride through the canals of La Petite Venise, the most picturesque district of Colmar. Glide under quaint bridges and alongside stunning pastel-colored houses that seem to rise straight out of the water.
Visit the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a 13th-century Dominican convent, where you can view the famed Isenheim Altarpiece by Grünewald, as well as a comprehensive collection of Upper Rhine art.
Don’t miss the Pfister House, an iconic example of early German Renaissance architecture, known for its wooden gallery, octagonal turret, and murals depicting biblical scenes.
Food lovers will delight in the local cuisine, which blends French sophistication with German comfort. Sample traditional dishes such as tarte flambée, choucroute garnie (Alsatian sauerkraut), and the regional Munster cheese, all perfectly paired with local Alsace wines like Riesling or Gewurztraminer.
During the winter months, Colmar transforms into a Christmas wonderland. The town’s festive markets are among the most beautiful in Europe, filled with seasonal delights and sparkling decorations that add to the joyous atmosphere.
Discover Colmar – where every corner tells a story, and the charm of old-world Europe is preserved in its most delightful form. Whether you're exploring its historic sights, enjoying its exquisite cuisine, or simply strolling along the canals, Colmar offers a timeless escape into the heart of Alsace.
Embark on a magical journey to Colmar, a captivating town nestled in the Alsace region of France. Renowned for its well-preserved medieval and early Renaissance buildings, picturesque canals, and vibrant flower displays, Colmar feels like stepping into a fairy tale. This enchanting town, with its blend of German and French architectural styles, offers a unique cultural tapestry and gastronomic delights that attract visitors from around the world.
Begin your exploration in the Old Town, where cobblestone streets wind past colorful half-timbered houses. Visit the Maison des Têtes, a Renaissance building adorned with faces, and the Pfister House, a stunning example of Colmar's architectural heritage.
Stroll along the Lauch River in the Little Venice area, where charming boats and vibrant flowers line the waterways. This picturesque quarter is perfect for a leisurely boat ride, offering a serene view of Colmar's beautiful houses and bridges.
Visit the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a 13th-century convent, where you can see the famed Isenheim Altarpiece by Grünewald, a masterpiece of Northern Renaissance art that captures both the beauty and anguish of the medieval religious spirit.
Explore the Colmar Christmas Market, one of the most charming and traditional Christmas markets in Europe. Held in the heart of the historical center, the market is a festive wonderland of lights, Christmas decorations, and local crafts, not to mention the warming aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread.
Indulge in the local cuisine at a traditional "winstub," where you can sample Alsace specialties such as tarte flambée (flammekueche), choucroute garnie, and local cheeses, paired with excellent Alsace wines like Riesling and Gewurztraminer.
Discover Colmar during the Colmar International Festival, when the town comes alive with music ranging from classical to jazz, creating a vibrant atmosphere that fills the historic streets and squares.
Discover Colmar – a gem of Alsace that offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Whether you're wandering through its enchanting streets, cruising along its canals, or savoring its culinary delights, Colmar provides a picturesque and enriching experience that captivates the heart of every traveler.
4. Matera, Italy
When you think of Italy, the place you'd probably think of would be the city of Rome. Although that's for a good reason, you should also consider visiting other sites in Italy. With that said, you might want to head south right into the city of Matera, which holds the City of Caves' name in Italy.
The town of Matera lived in relative obscurity, even up until as early as the 1950s. It's a relatively remote location and a place filled with people suffering from poverty who lived in these caves along with their animals. The city of Matera is a curiosity to behold. It doesn't hold glamour or luxury but is still an exciting stop, especially given its history.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
For fans of the show Game of Thrones, Dubrovnik should be familiar with you as it is the famous King's Landing site. The walls around the city are also a star in the same TV show, which is why you might be interested in stopping by the City Walls when you're there. Even if you don't watch the show, it's still a terrific site.
Dubrovnik has plenty of forts that you can behold, so if you're there, these are some of the sights that you're going to see most often.
6. Athens, Greece
Greece is one of the most popular places for tourists from all over the world. That's because of its vibrant culture, beautiful natural sites, and historically relevant past. Thus, it makes sense that if you're planning a trip around Europe that you stop by the capital city and the largest city of Greece: Athens.
The most popular attractions in Athens are the ones that are historically and culturally important. For example, the must-visit stops would be the Parthenon's remains, the Temple of Athena Nike, and many more ruins of a lost time. You'll feel a bit of magic and a sense of nostalgia in these ruins, even if you're not Greek yourself.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is the Netherlands' capital city and has some fascinating spots and areas for tourists to enjoy. There are plenty of museums for art lovers to capture your attention, like the Van Gogh Museum. You should also try a guided boat tour along the city's canals, especially when the sun is setting. That way, you can see just how gorgeous the city is, especially as the lights twinkle back from the waters.
8. Hallstatt, Austria
If you want to go to a place that looks like it was straight out of a fairytale, then Hallstatt in Austria is the place to go. Hallstatt's quaint town is home to 16th-century type architecture. It is surrounded by alpine mountains and sits right by Lake Hallstatt's serene shores. All of this makes for a village that looks like fairies live in them. If you ever want to feel like magic is real, this town is the place to be.
9. Tallinn, Estonia
Estonia’s capital city is Tallinn, where you can see historic Old Town which is UNESCO world heritage. The oldest buildings are from 1200s. Tallinn is a truly lovely city that combines the modern with the ancient. The old part of town is like slipping into medieval times, although with plenty of modern vendors and cool stuff to spend your modern euros on.
There are numerous of churches in Tallinn (actually in a whole country), one more beautiful than the other. With that being said, Tallinn is the best preserved medieval city in Northern Europe. The Christmas market in Tallinn is magical! Definitely worth seeing. Rotermanni quarter is a modern district that has a lot of good places to eat. Kalamaja has lovely wooden buildings, quite a hipster place with cafes/bars, etc. Kadriorg Palace and park is a lovely and beautiful place.
For three euros you can climb to the top of St. Olav’s Church. But beware, this is one spooky climb. The stairs are tiny, and worn by centuries of use, and all you have is a rope to help pull yourself up. Assuming you survive the climb to the top of St. Olaf, incredible views await you. All kinds of old things to look at.
