europe top destinations brown cave with over-view of city

Europe Top Destinations Travel Guide

Europe Tours, Tickets & Experiences
Explore bookable tours across Europe with skip-the-line access and unique local adventures. Browse Europe tours on Viator


Introduction

Europe is a tapestry of time-honored traditions, architectural wonders, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the continent offers something for every kind of explorer — from the art-filled avenues of Florence to the coastal cliffs of the Algarve. This guide showcases the top destinations in Europe that offer the perfect mix of iconic sights, local experiences, and hidden gems. If you’re planning your next European escape, this guide is for you.


Regional Breakdown

Europe spans over 40 countries, each with its own cultural fingerprint. While the west offers romance and Renaissance beauty, the east showcases emerging hotspots and preserved medieval towns. Here’s a breakdown of key regions:

  • Western Europe: France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Netherlands – known for art, history, and food.
  • Southern Europe: Italy, Greece, Croatia – coastal getaways, ruins, and warm Mediterranean vibes.
  • Northern Europe: Norway, Sweden, Iceland – fjords, Nordic design, and natural wonders.
  • Central Europe: Germany, Austria, Czech Republic – castles, mountains, and music festivals.
  • Eastern Europe: Poland, Hungary, Romania – underrated gems with rich culture and lower costs.

Places to Visit in Europe Top Destinations

Paris, France

Home to the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and charming cafes lining the Seine.

eiffel tower in paris during sunset

Rome, Italy

Walk through ancient history with sites like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Roman Forum.

Colosseum arena photography

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Famous for its canals, art museums, tulips, and cycling culture.

amsterdam canal body of water under white sky

Barcelona, Spain

A beachside city full of Gaudí architecture, tapas, and vibrant neighborhoods.

barcelona spain city during day

Prague, Czech Republic

Known for its medieval Old Town, Charles Bridge, and fairytale skyline.

prague gray concrete bridge near buildings

Santorini, Greece

A scenic island of whitewashed houses, sunset viewpoints, and volcanic beaches.

Santorini, Greece white concrete houses

Vienna, Austria

A cultural capital with imperial palaces, classical concerts, and art nouveau flair.

Vienna, Austria people walking on street near brown concrete building during night time

Dubrovnik, Croatia

A coastal fortress city with stunning Adriatic views and Game of Thrones filming sites.

Dubrovnik, Croatia aerial view of city buildings near body of water during daytime

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (April–June): Mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds.
  • Summer (July–August): Ideal for festivals and beaches but expect crowds and higher prices.
  • Fall (September–October): Pleasant temps and harvest events like grape-picking and Oktoberfest.
  • Winter (December–February): Magical Christmas markets and ski resorts in the Alps.

Top Things to Do

  • Take a gondola ride in Venice
  • Visit the Louvre Museum in Paris
  • Explore the Acropolis in Athens
  • Hike Trolltunga in Norway
  • Enjoy wine tasting in Tuscany
  • Join a food tour in Lisbon
  • Relax in Budapest’s thermal baths

Culture & History

Europe has shaped much of the modern world — from the Renaissance to the Industrial Revolution.

  • In Italy, walk through centuries of art and Catholic influence.
  • In Germany, explore WWII sites and medieval towns.
  • In Greece, witness the birthplace of democracy.

Each destination has museums, monuments, and local guides eager to share these stories.


Beaches & Nature

Algarve, Portugal brown rock formation near body of water during daytime

Cinque Terre, Italy houses on hill near body of water

  • Iceland – Geysers, waterfalls, and northern lights.
Iceland aerial photography of waterfalls

  • The Dolomites – Perfect for skiing, climbing, and alpine lakes.
Dolomites (Dolomiti) a mountain range with snow

Viewpoints & Photo Opportunities

Eiffel Tower Summit, Paris aerial view of city during golden hour

Fira Sunset, Santorini

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Hallstatt Lake, Austria a boat traveling down a river next to a mountain range

Pena Palace, Portugal gray and yellow castle at the top of a hill

Each offers unforgettable views and perfect backdrops for your travel photos.


Where to Eat

  • Italy: Try pasta in Rome or pizza in Naples.
  • France: Sample crepes in Paris and wine in Bordeaux.
  • Spain: Savor tapas and seafood paella in Barcelona.
  • Turkey: Enjoy meze, kebabs, and baklava in Istanbul.

Markets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and local taverns each offer a slice of the culinary scene.


Transportation Tips

  • Use Eurail for cross-country train travel.
  • Cities like London, Berlin, and Paris have metro systems.
  • Apps like Omio, BlaBlaCar, and Bolt are useful for short trips.
  • Consider renting a car for countryside exploration (e.g., Tuscany or the Ring Road in Iceland).

Hidden Gems

Ljubljana, Slovenia red and white concrete palace

Kotor, Montenegro aerial view of city near body of water during daytime

Lake Bled, Slovenia landscape photography of mountain raing

Porto, Portugal brown bridge with light

Valletta, Malta brown concrete cathedral near sea during daytime

Custom Experiences & Safety Tips

  • Book private cooking classes, guided hikes, or city photo walks for unique memories.
  • Carry a universal adapter and keep emergency contacts stored offline.
  • Stay alert in tourist areas for pickpocketing.
  • Check visa rules per country before your trip.

Nearby Destinations

  • From Paris, take a train to Brussels or Amsterdam.
  • From Rome, visit Florence or Naples in a few hours.
  • From Barcelona, head to Valencia or Andorra.
  • From Vienna, explore Budapest or Bratislava.

These short trips expand your itinerary effortlessly.


Travel Tips

Europe delivers timeless charm, modern innovation, and unforgettable experiences. It’s perfect for solo adventurers, couples, and families alike.
Before you go:

  • Book key tours in advance.
  • Learn basic local phrases.
  • Pack layered clothing for changing weather.

Start planning your European adventure now — and don’t forget to explore tour options for a seamless trip. Visit our Homepage