Recently updated on January 23rd, 2020 at 10:54 pm
With an exceptional wealth of history and pristine landscape encompassing majestic mountains and verdant valleys, Europe is sure to take any traveller’s breath away. Some of the most extraordinary sites have been awarded UNESCO status to ensure their preservation, and while some will already be on your bucket list, others are less well known. We take a look at five of the most outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe that are certainly worth the journey.
Giant’s Causeway, Ireland
Made up of surreal basalt columns and found amid the rugged cliffs of Ireland’s northern Atlantic coast, Giant’s Causeway is a captivating sight, and one that’s fascinated scientists for many years. Here, visitors can climb the Shepherd’s Steps and make their way along the cliff-top path to be rewarded with sweeping views over this UNESCO site and its dramatic surroundings. A visitor centre reveals the stories behind Giant’s Causeway to anyone interested in finding out more.
Pompeii, ItalyÂ
It was being buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD that preserved the ancient city of Pompeii to such an extent. And it wasn’t until 1594 that an architect discovered these ruins while digging in the area. Much of the site has now been excavated, so within the shadows of the famous mountain, visitors can walk along ancient Roman streets, see the ruins of temples, and even see inside ancient shops and homes.
Plitvice, Croatia
With its network of 16 aquamarine terraced lakes, tumbling waterfalls and adjoining limestone canyon, the 295-square-kilometre Plitvice Lakes National Park in Central Croatia is among the most captivating UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe. Trails lead visitors around each of the lakes, with a ferry transporting people between the upper and lower areas, enabling anyone who comes here to really be amidst extraordinary natural beauty.Â
Wachau Valley, Austria
Located to the west of Vienna and straddling the Danube River, Wachau Valley stands out for its lush green hills and rolling vineyards, with fortresses tucked into the landscape. Designated by UNESCO as an Outstanding Cultural Landscape due to these ancient monasteries and castles, as well as the area’s well-preserved villages and towns, there’s much to see here from ancient monuments and ruins to traditional Austrian wineries.
The Acropolis, Greece
With its vantage point overlooking Athens, The Acropolis is the focus of this vibrant city’s skyline from the light of day until well after sundown, when it’s lit up on the horizon. Dating back over 2,500 years, the ancient site is said to reflect the power and wealth of Athens in those early days, as well as exhibiting the era’s masterpieces of ancient architecture and Classical art. After strolling between the ruins, it’s worth spending some time in the exceptional Acropolis Museum.
Travel through Europe with Trafalgar on the Highlights of Eastern Europe trip, Imperial Europe and Traditional Europe, or choose the trip for the specific destination you want to visit.
Image credits: Cover photo of Plitvice © iStock / Artur Bogacki. Giant’s Causeway © iStock. Pompeii © iStock. Plitvice © iStock / Krzyszt of Karpinski. Wachau Valley © iStock. Acropolis © iStock.