No visit to Europe is the same. This continent of diverse nations squeezes a rich smorgasbord of culture, traditions, design, style, history, language, landscapes and people into a relatively small amount of space. That can make it hard to choose where to go, which is why we’ve created this bucket list of the best places to visit in Europe. Use this as your starting point for planning your next European vacation.
Paris, France
The City of Lights is one of the most iconic and romantic cities in the world. Love it or hate it, everyone should visit Paris at least once to experience its historic landmarks, art, and café culture. Go for the beauty, culture, and world-class cuisine.
What to see: The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, the Champs-Élysées, and the romantic Montmartre neighborhood.
When to go: The best time to visit Paris is in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is mild, the city is in full bloom, and the crowds are manageable. Winter is great for festive lights and a cozy atmosphere.
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Rome, Italy
The capital of Italy is like stepping through a living museum where ancient history, Renaissance art, and modern life overlap. Go to see the Roman Forum and Colosseum, stay for the bowls of carbonara pasta.
What to see: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel.
When to go: Rome is best in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner than during summer.
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Santorini, Greece
You’ll never see a sunset quite as magnificent as those witness while on Santorini, the “Crown Jewel of the Aegean”. Sat between its whitewashed buildings with blue domes, you’ll take in dramatic views over a caldera as day turns to night in Greece.
What to see: The cliffside villages of Oia and Fira, the volcanic Red Beach, ancient ruins of Akrotiri, and the wineries producing Santorini’s signature Assyrtiko wine.
When to go: Visit from late April to early November, with May to September offering the best warm weather for swimming and enjoying the beaches.
Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh
The Scottish Highlands – often referred to as the “Heart of Scotland” – offer rugged beauty, dramatic landscapes, and rich folklore, while the capital of Edinburgh contrasts the countryside with a rich history and charming old town.
What to see: In the Highlands, visit Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, and the Isle of Skye. In Edinburgh, explore Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
When to go: Visit Scotland between May and September, when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor exploration. August is the best month as you can catch the Edinburgh Festival, or aim for autumn in the highlands to see national parks aflame with fall foliage.
Barcelona, Spain
This Spanish city is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe. Thanks to the artist and architect Gaudí, Barcelona offers a unique blend of modernist architecture, Mediterranean beaches, and street life like no where else. Come to this cosmopolitan city to eat tapas, absorb culture and relax.
What to see: La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.
When to go: Visit Barcelona from May to June or September to October, when the weather is warm but not too hot. Summer heat is too much for sightseeing, plus the city is packed!
Vienna, Austria
The capital of Austria is a cultural and historic treasure, famous for its imperial palaces, classical music heritage, and elegant coffeehouse culture. Explore the grand Habsburg history and visit the opera house!
What to see: Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Belvedere Palace, and the Vienna State Opera.
When to go: Vienna is in bloom from April to May or September to October. December is also magical for the famous Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Five colorful, cliffside villages along the rugged Italian Riviera make up Cinque Terre. This Italian region is famous for its gorgeous landscapes, coastal hiking trails, and charming towns that offer a glimpse at authentic Italian coastal life.
What to see: The villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, the Sentiero Azzurro hiking trail, and the vineyards overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
When to go: The best time to visit Cinque Terre is from mid-May to September, when the weather is warm and ideal for hiking and enjoying the sea. To avoid peak crowds, visit in late spring or early fall when the villages are quieter but still beautiful.
Budapest, Hungary
The “Pearl of the Danube” is an underrated city filled with stunning architecture and thermal baths. The Hungarian capital is a place where East meets West, offering a unique mix of culture and traditions in a city where the past blends with the present.
What to see: Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge, Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, Széchenyi Thermal Baths, and Heroes’ Square.
When to go: Visit from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the city is not too crowded. Alternatively, go in summer for the festivals or winter for the Christmas markets and cozy thermal baths!
South of France
The French Riviera – or “Côte d’Azur” – is famous for its postcard-worthy coastline, glamorous resorts, and quaint villages. Here you can experience natural beauty, world-class dining, and rub shoulders with movie stars.
What to see: The glamorous city of Nice, the historic town of Antibes, the charming village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the lavender fields of Provence, and the stunning beaches of Cannes and Saint-Tropez.
When to go: Go for the spring flowers (April to June) or in early fall (September to October) when the weather is warm, the crowds are smaller, and the local festivals and markets are in full swing. Summer can be hot and crowded, especially along the coastline where Europeans flock for vacation during school break.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Towering peaks, serene valleys, and alpine villages define this favorite destination that’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Come for stunning views, world-class skiing, and Swiss mountain culture.
What to see: The Matterhorn, Jungfrau Region, Lake Geneva, Interlaken, Zermatt, and the scenic train rides on the Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
When to go: The best time to visit the Swiss Alps depends on your interests. For skiing and snow sports, visit from December to March. For hiking, summer (June to September) offers pleasant weather and beautiful wildflowers.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Everyone who visits Copenhagen seems to fall in love with the vibrant and progressive Danish capital. The bike-friendly city combines modern design with historic landmarks and is an easy-to-navigate city.
What to see: The iconic Nyhavn waterfront, Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, Rosenborg Castle, and the Freetown of Christiania.
When to go: The Scandinavian city gets cold in winter, so visit between May to September for mild weather and outdoor festivals.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Dalmatia is a stunning coastal region in Croatia that stretches along the Adriatic Sea, taking in famous cities liek Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar along with idyllic islands such as Hvar and Brač. Come for days by the sea, charming medieval towns, and fresh grilled fish.h history, and vibrant culture, making it a popular destination for travelers.
What to see: The historic city of Split, the ancient Roman ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, the stunning islands of Hvar and Brač, the picturesque town of Dubrovnik, and the beautiful Krka National Park.
When to go: Visit from May to September when the weather is warm. Summer (July to August) is peak season – it can be very busy, but it’s the best time to swim.
Venice, Italy
One of the best places to visit in Europe is Venice. Why? This unique floating Italian city is like no where else on Earth. Go for the romantic ambiance, famous landmarks, and rich traditions.
What to see: St. Mark’s Basilica, the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace, and the charming neighborhoods of Cannaregio and Burano.
When to go: Visit Venice in the spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October). Or go for carnival in February!
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Istanbul, Türkiye
Straddling two continents, some might say Istanbul offers the best of both worlds. Here in the Turkish capital you’ll encounter a mix of east and west and a modern city with ancient roots.
What to see: The Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the bustling Grand Bazaar, and a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.
When to go: Spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) are best for mild weather. The summers can be quite hot and crowded.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” Reykjavik is the gateway to Iceland’s natural wonders, from volcanoes and glaciers to geysers and waterfalls. This small but vibrant city offers a unique mix of urban life and easy access to these stunning landscapes.
What to see: The Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, the Sun Voyager sculpture, the Blue Lagoon, and day trips to the Golden Circle, which includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
When to go: It depends on your interests. Summer (June to August) offers long daylight hours and mild weather, perfect for exploring nature. Winter (November to February) is ideal for seeing the Northern Lights, though the days are shorter and colder.
Lisbon, Portugal
The coastal Portuguese capital is a colorful city with a unique identity. Here old-world charm rubs shoulders with a vibrant and youthful energy. It’s famously hilly, but any cardio is a good excuse for another Portuguese custard tart.
What to see: Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, São Jorge Castle, the Alfama district, and ride the iconic Tram 28.
When to go: Like many European cities, the best time to visit Lisbon is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October), when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the city is less crowded.
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Athens, Greece
Athens is a city steeped in ancient history and mythology, and it’s home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Who isn’t drawn to the idea of standing next to the Acropolis or Parthenon might be more excited for the gyros and Greek salad.
What to see: The Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the lively Plaka district.
When to go: Athens is super hot in the summer, so visit from March to May and September to November when the weather is more pleasant.
Florence, Italy
Every street of Florence feels like you’ve stepped back in time to the days of Michelangelo and Da Vinci. The birthday of Renaissance is a destination rich with world-class art, stunning architecture, and rich Italian culture. It’s a must-visit for lovers of art and history.
What to see: The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, and the beautiful Boboli Gardens.
When to go: Again, this is one of the best places to visit in Europe during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). Summers are hot crowded, but they bring fun festivities and outdoor events.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a city of reinvention, where war history and the present day collide. Known for its open-mindedness and creative spirit, the German city has a unique energy, with cutting-edge culture and nightlife.
What to see: The Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag Building, Museum Island, and the Holocaust Memorial.
When to go: May to September is best as the weather is warm and Berlin’s outdoor events, parks, and beer gardens come alive.
Salzburg, Austria
The birthplace of Mozart is a picturesque gem set within the Austrian Alps. Go for the baroque architecture, musical heritage, stunning natural surroundings, and chance to live out The Sound of Music.
What to see: Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace and Gardens, Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, and the nearby lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut region.
When to go: Visit April to September when the gardens are in full bloom. December is also magic with the Christmas markets and snowy alpine scenery.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Dutch capital is famous for its canals, cycling culture, and skinny historic homes. Visit to explore the buzzing city’s cool culture and famous museums. While here taste local favorites like stroopwafels, raw herring, and the traditional Dutch pancakes known as poffertjes.
What to see: The Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, the Jordaan neighborhood, and a boat tour through the scenic canals.
When to go: April to May and September to November are best to avoid summer crowds. Spring is when the tulips bloom!
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and crystal-clear waters define the postcard-perfect Amalfi Coast. This breathtaking stretch of Italy’s coastline is a favorite holiday destination that combines sightseeing, nature, and luxurious relaxation.
What to see: The charming towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, the stunning Path of the Gods hiking trail, and the historic Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
When to go: The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is from April to June and September to October when the weather is good but the crowds are smaller. Summer is busier but ideal for enjoying the beaches and vibrant local life.
Ring of Kerry, Ireland
This is one of Ireland’s most scenic drives, which is why it makes our list of the best places to visit in Europe. Everyone who visits the Emerald Isle should carve a lap along the 179-kilometer route, which showcases the rugged beauty of Ireland’s southwest coast. Expect dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins, and charming villages steeped in history.
What to see: Killarney National Park, the Gap of Dunloe, Skellig Michael, Ross Castle, and the quaint towns of Kenmare and Sneem.
When to go: Visit from April to October, when the weather is milder. Summer is your best chance for clear skies.
Prague, Czech Republic
The “City of a Hundred Spires” looks like it from a fairytale. The capital of the Czech Repiblic charms those who visit with its beautifully preserved medieval streets, quaint European squares, and historic castles.
What to see: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock, and Malá Strana neighborhood.
When to go: Go between spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant. Prague is also fantastic at Christmas, when you’ll find markets and snow-dusted spires.
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Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a beautifully preserved medieval city in northwest Belgium that’s known for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture. This makes it feel like you’ve stepped back in time and gives it a fairytale-like atmosphere.
What to see: The Belfry of Bruges, Markt Square, Basilica of the Holy Blood, the canals, and the historic Burg Square.
When to go: May to September when the city’s canals and streets are in full bloom. You’ll also find charming Christmas markets and fewer tourists in winter.
What is the #1 tourist spot in Europe?
The Eiffel Tower in Paris is the most iconic landmark in Europe, drawing millions of visitors every year.
What is the best country to visit in Europe?
It really depends on your interests, but overall we find Italy is the most popular European country among our travelers. Italy is destination with many cities, a rich history, gorgeous art, and diverse landscapes. You can return again and again and see something different every time, from the ruins of Rome to Renaissance art in Florence to the canals of Venice to the coastline.
Where should I go for the first time in Europe?
Each country in Europe is so different, so it’s hard to choose just one place. For your first time in Europe, perhaps visiting an iconic city that you’ve seen in so many movies or read about in books is a great starting place. Somewhere like Paris or Rome would be the perfect place for first timers.
That’s our list of the 25 best places to visit in Europe. Have you been to them all? Tell us in the comments where you think is missing….