What Are The Must Travel Places In Europe To Add To Your Bucket List?

Europe offers a diverse tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and historical landmarks that beckon travelers from around the globe. If you’re seeking an unforgettable European adventure, SIXT.VN is here to guide you through a curated list of must-travel destinations. From the romantic canals of Venice to the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, Europe offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every traveler’s taste. Start planning your European escape today with SIXT.VN, and discover the wonders that await in this captivating continent.

1. Begin Your Journey in Positano, Italy

Wake up to the breathtaking views of Positano, a jewel on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. This picturesque town, seemingly plucked from a fairytale, is nestled into the cliffs, boasting colorful buildings and terracotta rooftops. Rent a Vespa to explore nearby towns like Ravello, known for its stunning hillside setting, or take a ferry to Capri, a popular island destination. According to research from the Italian National Tourist Board in 2023, the Amalfi Coast, including Positano, saw a 20% increase in tourist arrivals, highlighting its growing appeal as a must-visit destination.

Positano Italy Must Travel Places In Europe

2. Discover the Charm of Annecy, France

France boasts numerous photogenic towns, but Annecy, located in southeastern France, stands out as one of the most beautiful. Its Vieille Ville (old town) features cobblestone streets, winding canals, and colorful houses. The backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the expansive Lake Annecy, perfect for summer rowboat rides, adds to its allure. Annecy is the city with canals and colorful houses.

Annecy France Must Travel Places In Europe

3. Immerse Yourself in Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is a destination with endless quaint cafes and bakeries, especially inviting during the colder months. Nyhavn, the city’s 17th-century waterfront harbor, is adorned with colorful houses and merchants. This Northern European gem is a must-see for any traveler. Copenhagen is the place with 17th-century waterfront harbor.

Copenhagen Denmark Must Travel Places In Europe

4. Relax in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland

A visit to Iceland isn’t complete without experiencing the Blue Lagoon, its most famous attraction. The lagoon’s healing properties and mineral-rich waters, including silica and sulfur, are said to benefit skin conditions. Despite its popularity, the Blue Lagoon offers a unique experience that is worth the visit. Iceland is a country with a famous blue lagoon.

Blue Lagoon Iceland Must Travel Places In Europe

5. Explore Pena Palace, Portugal

Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, is one castle worth visiting. This Romanticist castle overlooks the town from above, often hidden in the clouds on misty days, creating the illusion of floating. Portugal has a Pena Palace that floats in the clouds.

Pena Palace Portugal Must Travel Places In Europe

6. Wander Through the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, boasts one of the most beautiful old towns in Europe. Tallinn’s cobblestoned Old Town is inside an imposing wall. You’ll also find plenty of authentic Baltic cuisine within the city walls, so be sure to allow time to perch up and watch the world pass you by. Be sure not to miss Raeapteek, the oldest pharmacy in Europe.

Tallinn Estonia Must Travel Places In Europe

7. Discover Peleș Castle, Romania

Peleș Castle in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains is as beautiful and ethereal. Located near Sinaia in Romania, this castle exists on a medieval route linking Transylvania and Wallachia. Peleș Castle is commonly considered one of the most beautiful in all of Europe.

Peleș Castle Romania Must Travel Places In Europe

8. Experience Christmas in Prague, Czech Republic

Prague comes to life as living markets during Christmas time. Central Europe as a whole really comes to life with the arrival of Christmas markets, so if you fancy a fairytale visit to Prague, this is certainly the best time of year to find yourself strolling across the Charles Bridge in search of Christmas magic. Prague is an incredible city to visit any time of year, but there is nothing quite like Christmas time in Prague.

Christmas in Prague Must Travel Places In Europe

9. Explore Vienna, Austria

Vienna is the capital of Austria. Vienna feels regal and refined. I would recommend spending most of your time slowing down, enjoying cultural immersion in the cafe culture of Vienna and feeling as if you have stepped back in time.

Vienna Austria Must Travel Places In EuropeVienna Austria Must Travel Places In EuropeVienna Austria Must Travel Places In Europe

10. Marvel at the Red Square, Moscow, Russia

Moscow is hands down one of the most exquisite cities in Europe. As the capital city of Russia, you can expect to see opulence on overdrive as you stand in the Red Square, the historical centre of the city of Moscow. Regarded as one of the most famous cities in Europe.

Red Square Moscow Must Travel Places In Europe

11. Discover Rome, Italy

Rome is the eternal city, the city of Rome has so much to offer visitors by way of history, culture, food and hospitality. There are too many must see attractions in Rome to list. Rome is the center of the universe for a long period of time throughout history.

Rome Italy Must Travel Places In Europe

12. Admire Gaudí Architecture in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is brimming with incredible architecture, sights, sounds and smells at every turn. The city is full of masterpieces – namely Parc Güell (pictured), Casa Milá, Casa Batlló and so many more. Barcelona is the city with incredible architecture.

Gaudí Architecture in Barcelona Must Travel Places In Europe

13. See the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

There is of course nothing or nowhere more iconic in Paris, than the Eiffel Tower. This monument is by far one of the most iconic monuments in all of Europe and under a blanket of night sky, it only becomes more magnificent. The best view of the Eiffel Tower is of course from afar. The Eiffel Tower is the iconic monument in Paris.

Eiffel Tower in Paris Must Travel Places In Europe

14. Stroll the Canals of Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is certainly one of my favourite cities in all of Europe and if we’re talking about winter travel, I’d say Amsterdam takes the cake for my number one city to spend time in. The canals are of course the main drawcard in Amsterdam, seamlessly lining the streets and adding to the undeniable romance of the city. Amsterdam is the city with romantic canals.

Canals of Amsterdam Must Travel Places In Europe

15. Discover Santorini, Greece

Greece is full of incredible islands to explore, so if you’re planning to stop in during your European travels, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. And if time is not on your side, then skip straight over to Santorini for arguably the best Greek island to explore. Santorini is one of the incredible islands to explore.

Santorini Greece Must Travel Places In Europe

16. Enjoy the London Skyline, England

London is not only the most visited city in all of Europe, but often tops the list as the most visited city in the entire world. With a history that dates back to Roman times, London as we know it today is a blend of cultures and history, leaving much to be discovered. From here, you will really start to understand the layout and size of this city as a whole. London is the most visited city in all of Europe.

London England Must Travel Places In Europe

17. Visit Florence, Italy

One city that is always a favourite for travelers is Florence or Firenze as it is known in Italy. This city is highly regarded for its culture, musuems, architecture and fascinating history. Oh, and did we mentioned you will find gelaterias on almost every corner? Florence is highly regarded for its culture, musuems, architecture and fascinating history.

Florence Italy Must Travel Places In Europe

18. Road Trip Around Ireland

Ireland is one of those countries where it is more about the journey than the destination. Driving around Ireland is arguably the best way to see the country, so be sure to look into car rental before you go and plan for the long journey. Ireland is a country where it is more about the journey than the destination.

Wexford Ireland Must Travel Places In Europe

19. Explore Lisbon, Portugal

If you fancy a capital city with vibrancy on overload, then head over to Lisbon, Portugal. This city has long flown under the radar, but in recent years has found its footing as one of the must visit cities in Europe. Be sure to save at least half a day to explore Alfama, a central neighbourhood with flavour and flair. Lisbon is a capital city with vibrancy on overload.

Lisbon Portugal Must Travel Places In Europe

20. Discover Lapland, Finland

If you don’t mind the cold, a visit to Lapland in Finland is an experience like no other. It is here where you have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights, as well as having the opportunity to partake in a number of unusual winter activities – like dog sledding, visiting a Reindeer farm, or hiking in the forest. Lapland is an experience like no other.

Lapland Finland Must Travel Places In Europe

21. Go Yachting in Croatia

Croatia is one of the best destinations to visit in the summer months, as it offers a huge coastline to enjoy and island hop, as well as being more affordable than Western Europe alternatives. Croatia is one of the best destinations to visit in the summer months.

Yachting in Croatia Must Travel Places In Europe

22. Visit Salzburg, Austria

For fans of the Sound of Music, there is no city more appealing than Salzburg, which is also considered the most beautiful city in Austria. The city is incredibly beautiful to explore in itself, but many travellers make their way to Salzburg to join a Sound of Music tour. Salzburg is also considered the most beautiful city in Austria.

Salzburg Austria Must Travel Places In Europe

23. Visit the Mamma Mia Island of Skopelos, Greece

For fans of the Mamma Mia film, the island of Skopelos is a great option. Not only was this one of the most used filming locations for the film, but it is also an incredible island to experience Greek culture. Skopelos is an incredible island to experience Greek culture.

Skopelos Greece Must Travel Places In Europe

24. Discover Montenegro in the Balkans

Montenegro should be top of your list. There are endless small towns and cities to visit in Montenegro, many of which are located in the Bay of Kotor. Montenegro offers some of the most underrated and undervisited countries and attractions in all of Europe.

Perast Montenegro Must Travel Places In EuropeMontenegro Must Travel Places In Europe

25. Road Trip Through Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany has long been considered the most romantic and ethereal region in Italy to discover. With the freedom to take your travels at your own pace, you will be able to discover many small towns the locals will share with you as insider secrets, plus some of the more popular cities and towns. Tuscany is considered the most romantic and ethereal region in Italy.

Tuscany Italy Must Travel Places In Europe

26. Discover the Algarve, Portugal

Located in the South of Portugal, the Algarve will always have a special place in our heart. There are many small coastal towns to discover, but the beaches are so beautiful, they are destinations in themselves. The Algarve is Portugal’s most loved holiday destination.

Algarve Portugal Must Travel Places In Europe

27. Ride the train on Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland

The Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands is a surreal experience to have in real life, because it looks just the same as it does in the films! Be sure to book your train ticket in advance, as this has become one of the most popular things to do in Scotland.

Glenfinnan Viaduct Scotland Must Travel Places In Europe

28. Visit Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Mostar is worthy of more than a day visit, it has become an increasingly popular day trip from Dubrovnik, Croatia. This small town offers great insight into the history of the country, so be sure to join a walking tour to get a running history of the town and country.

Mostar Bosnia & Herzegovina Must Travel Places In Europe

29. Slow Down in the Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds is a great opportunity to slow down and take your time in the English countryside. Must visit towns include Bourton-on-the-water, Stow-on-the-wold and Bibury. The Cotswolds is a great opportunity to slow down and take your time in the English countryside.

Cotswolds England Must Travel Places In Europe

30. Discover Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is commonly considered one of the most beautiful towns in Europe. If you fancy photogenic small towns that are so beautiful they feel fairtytale-like, then Bruges cannot be missed. Bruges is commonly considered one of the most beautiful towns in Europe.

Bruges Belgium Must Travel Places In Europe

31. Explore Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Cesky Krumlov in Czech Republic is another one of our choices that tops the list. This small town is just a short drive south of Prague, toward the border to Austria. So if you’ve got time to spare in Central Europe, there really is a lot to unpack in this region.

Cesky Krumlov Czech Republic Must Travel Places In Europe

32. Explore Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is one of our favourite destinations in Italy and until you visit for yourself, you never can truly grasp the beauty of this region. There are countless small towns located along the lake, many of which are best explored on foot.

Lake Como Italy Must Travel Places In Europe

33. Explore the Rhine River, Germany

Germany is full of incredible towns to visit but if you ask us, many of these are located along the Rhine River. Certainly for romantics and couples, there are endless small towns to be discovered in this region of Germany.

Rhine River Germany Must Travel Places In Europe

34. Discover the Fjordlands, Norway

Norway is a destination in itself and if you ask us, you’ll need a week or two to even scratch the surface. But this being one of Europe’s most expensive countries to visit, a great way to visit Norway is in fact as part of a cruise.

Fjordlands Norway Must Travel Places In Europe

35. Spend a Weekend in Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm offers a bit of everything for design lovers – by way of museums, architecture, galleries, cafes, and beautiful Scandinavian furniture stores. You could spend an entire week here but for the sake of time and budget, give yourself a weekend instead.

Stockholm Sweden Must Travel Places In Europe

36. Discover Budapest, Hungary

Budapest has well and truly become discovered. This city is now considered a must visit destination on any Europe bucket list, so be sure to add it to yours. Located in Hungary in the heart of Europe, the city is buzzing with beautiful buildings, monuments, and of course, the famed public bath houses.

Budapest Hungary Must Travel Places In Europe

37. Visit the Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are most popular during the winter months but if you ask us, there’s never a bad time to visit. Exploring this region by train is an easy way to kick back and take it all in, all the while traveling from one town to the next.

Swiss Alps Must Travel Places In Europe

38. Row a Boat on Lake Bled, Slovenia

Then head on over to Lake Bled, Slovenia’s most famous tourist attraction and for good reason. There are many ways to see and experience the lake – including swimming in the summer, walking or riding a bike around the rim of the lake, but my personal favourite is to row a boat to the island in the heart of the lake.

Lake Bled Slovenia Must Travel Places In Europe

39. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

But if you pick just one, we recommend visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in the South of the country, neatly tucked away in Bavaria. This castle has a unique history and has since been dubbed the “Disney Castle” given its similarity to the logo. You can visit and tour ths castle seasonally, which is a great day trip on offer from Munich.

Neuschwanstein Castle Germany Must Travel Places In Europe

40. Visit Hallstatt, Austria’s Prettiest Lake Town

Meanwhile in the central region of Europe, you might also want to add a little town by the name of Hallstatt to your Europe bucket list. This town is commonly considered the most beautiful lakeside town in all of Europe – and it isn’t hard to see why! Hallstatt is the prettiest lake town in Austria.

Hallstatt Austria Must Travel Places In Europe

41. Ride a Gondola in Venice, Italy

If you find yourself in Italy, you are likely to stumble upon Venice, as it is one of the most visited cities in the country alongside Rome, Florence and Milan. And if you find yourself in Venice, you really must experience a gondola ride to get the full Venetian experience. Ride a Gondola in Venice is the full Venetian experience.

42. Visit the Acropolis, Greece

While Athens can often get a bad wrap in travel blogs and guides, there really is something so impressive and grounding about visiting the Acropolis. This ancient citadel is still preserved to this day and is certainly worthy of a visit while you transit en route to the nearby islands. Visiting the Acropolis is impressive and grounding.

Acropolis Greece Must Travel Places In Europe

43. Attend Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

This list of Europe bucket list items would not be complete without mention of Germany’s Oktoberfest. The beer festival takes place annually and has become a huge drawcard for international travelers, especially those in their 20’s and 30’s seeking a fun social experience. Oktoberfest is the beer festival takes place annually.

Oktoberfest in Munich Must Travel Places In Europe

44. Explore Edinburgh, Scotland

Many years ago we named Edinburgh the most underrated capital city in all of Europe and to this day, we stand by it. However, since then, visitors to Edinburgh have skyrocketed and the popularity of this city is now something to behold. But that doesn’t mean the charm has worn off and if you ask us, this is one of the most beautiful large cities in all of Europe. Especially for Harry Potter fans, as this is where soem of the books themselves were written. Edinburgh is the most underrated capital city in all of Europe.

Edinburgh Scotland Must Travel Places In Europe

45. Explore the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg, Russia

St Petersburg was once the capital city of Russia, and as such has a long list of attractions to offer. But there is one such attraction we’d argue surpasses all the rest. And that is, of course, the Hermitage Museum. Once a winter palace, the Hermitage today is home to countless artefacts, art works and is itself a living history. The Hermitage Museum is home to countless artefacts, art works and is itself a living history.

Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg Must Travel Places In Europe

46. Walk the City Walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you find yourself in Croatia, then be sure to stop by Dubrovnik, the coastal city that has become a hot spot for international travelers. This walled city is as beautiful as it looks in films. And if it looks familiar, you might recognise the city as one of the main filming locations for popular HBO series Game of Thrones. Walking the City Walls of Dubrovnik is a hot spot for international travelers.

City Walls of Dubrovnik Must Travel Places In Europe

47. Explore Ljubljana, Europe’s Most Underrated Capital City, Slovenia

You really must add Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, to your Europe bucket list. This city is quaint, charming, and especially so in the summer months. Ljubljana is quaint, charming, and especially so in the summer months.

Ljubljana Slovenia Must Travel Places In EuropeLjubljana Slovenia Must Travel Places In EuropeLjubljana Slovenia Must Travel Places In Europe

48. Walk Through History in Poland

There are too many cities and towns in Poland you must visit to name just one, so we’ll name two: Warsaw (the capital) and Krakow (the gatway to Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps). Both of these cities offer insight into Poland’s turbulent past, and both are worthy of a visit on your tour of Eastern Europe. Walking Through History in Poland offer insight into Poland’s turbulent past.

History in Poland Must Travel Places In Europe

49. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

The leaning tower of Pisa was in fact never supposed to be this way. But this work of architecture is perhaps the most celebrated failure of its kind, with many travelers makeing their way to Pisa just to take a photo with the icon. Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa is the most celebrated failure of its kind.

Leaning Tower of Pisa Must Travel Places In Europe

50. Visit the Wonders of Istanbul, Turkey

This city is the largest in Turkey and straddles both Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. Across the city you will notice the many empires that have once ruled here and the many names this city has held, at the hands of various rulers. There is no other city in the world quite like it. Istanbul is the largest in Turkey and straddles both Europe and Asia.

Wonders of Istanbul Must Travel Places In Europe

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