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Europe Tour Travel Guide – Best Places, Things to Do & Hidden Gems

Introduction

Europe is a tapestry of ancient cities, alpine landscapes, sun-soaked coastlines, and vibrant cultures. From the Renaissance masterpieces of Italy to the majestic fjords of Norway, each country offers a unique flavor of history, cuisine, nature, and nightlife. Whether you’re exploring UNESCO heritage sites, island-hopping in the Mediterranean, or skiing in the Alps, Europe presents endless adventures for every kind of traveler.

This guide is designed to help you explore Europe country by country — highlighting top destinations, cultural must-sees, scenic gems, food to savor, and insider tips. Whether you’re planning a single-country escape or a grand European tour, this is your ultimate guide.

Top European Destinations to Visit

France – Paris, Nice, Loire Valley

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Parvis Notre-Dame white concrete building near body of water during night time

Italy – Rome, Venice, Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre aerial view of village on mountain cliff during orange sunset

Spain – Barcelona, Seville, Madrid

Plaza de España, Sevilla, Spain brown and gray castle near gray lamp

Germany – Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Black Forest

Hamburg, Germany brown and white train on rail road near brown concrete building during daytime

Greece – Athens, Santorini, Crete, Parga

Parga, Greece aerial view of green trees and blue sea during daytime

Portugal – Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, Lagos

Ponta Da Piedade, Lagos, Portugal people swimming on sea near brown rock formation during daytime

Switzerland – Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen

Mürren, Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland bird's eye view of ski lift over mountains during winter

Austria – Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt

Hohenwerfen Castle, Burgstraße, Werfen, Austria a river running through a valley surrounded by mountains

Netherlands – Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans, Zaanstad, Netherlands
three windmills by the lake under grey cloudy sky

United Kingdom – London, Edinburgh, Lake District

Leeds Castle, Maidstone, United Kingdom brown concrete castle with moat during daytime

Suggested Itinerary Ideas

Classic 14-Day Europe Itinerary:

Days 1–3: London
Days 4–6: Paris
Days 7–9: Rome
Days 10–12: Amsterdam
Days 13–14: Berlin

Hidden Gems Europe Itinerary (Off the Beaten Path):

Montenegro (Kotor, Durmitor)

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

Albania (Saranda, Berat)

Pogradec, Albania aerial view of city near body of water during daytime

Slovenia (Lake Bled, Ljubljana)

Bled, Slovenia island surrounded by water and mountains at daytime

Georgia (Tbilisi, Kazbegi)

Trinity Gergeti Church, Kazbegi, Georgia
gray concrete building on hill

Top Things to Do in Europe

Take a scenic train ride through the Alps
Explore the Colosseum in Rome
Cruise the Seine River in Paris
Visit Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
Go island-hopping in Greece
Enjoy cheese and chocolate tours in Switzerland

Culture & History

Europe offers thousands of years of cultural heritage, from Ancient Roman ruins to medieval castles and Renaissance masterpieces. Don’t miss local cultural events like:

Running of the Bulls (Spain)
Oktoberfest (Germany)
Carnival of Venice (Italy)

Nature & Scenic Spots

Amalfi Coast – Dramatic cliffside views and Mediterranean vibes.

Swiss Alps – Hiking, skiing, and mountain railways.

Norwegian Fjords – Cruise or kayak tours through breathtaking landscapes.

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia – Stunning waterfalls and turquoise lakes.

Hidden Gems in Europe

Lofoten Islands, Norway – Isolated fishing villages surrounded by peaks and Northern Lights.

Lofoten Islands aerial photo of mountain and body of water

Giethoorn, Netherlands – A car-free village with canals and thatched-roof cottages.

Giethoorn, Netherlands brown and white house near lake during daytime

Kotor, Montenegro – Medieval coastal town set within dramatic bay scenery.

Kotor, Montenegro woman sitting on top of cliff facing buildings

Albarracín, Spain – A pink-hued town surrounded by Moorish walls.

Sierra de Albarracín Comarca, Teruel, Spain A small village in the middle of a mountain range

Ronda, Spain – Clifftop town with stunning bridges over a dramatic gorge.

Ronda, Spain an aerial view of a city on a cliff

Hallstatt, Austria – Lakeside village charm.

Hallstatt, Austria body of water near mountain under blue sky during daytime

Civita di Bagnoregio, Italy – A “dying town” perched on a hilltop.

Civita di Bagnoregio, Bagnoregio, Italia a castle on top of a mountain surrounded by trees

Ghent, Belgium – Less crowded than Bruges, equally charming.

Ghent, Belgium an aerial view of a city with a ferris wheel

Sighișoara, Romania – One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval citadels.

Sighișoara brown concrete building near body of water under blue sky during daytime

Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia – Ancient monasteries and crystal-clear waters.

North Macedonia city buildings near body of water under blue sky during daytime

Explore Europe

Albania

Regional Breakdown: Tirana’s capital culture, Riviera beaches, Llogara Pass drive, Butrint archaeological site.
Culture & History: Ottoman mosques, bunkers, Byzantine churches, Illyrian ruins.
Where to Eat: Tavë kosi, byrek, grilled lamb, qofte, seafood pasta.
Beaches & Nature: Ksamil beaches, Gjipe Canyon, Valbona Valley, Blue Eye spring.
Viewpoints: Llogara Pass, Rozafa Castle, Berat hilltops.
Nightlife: Tirana’s Blloku district, Saranda beach bars, traditional cafés.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia.
Things to do in Albania

Andorra

Regional Breakdown: Andorra la Vella shopping, Pyrenees ski resorts, hiking valleys, Romanesque churches.
Culture & History: Catalan influence, principality status, ancient stone villages.
Where to Eat: Escudella, trinxat, mountain trout, coques.
Beaches & Nature: Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, Sorteny Park, Estanys lakes.
Viewpoints: Roc del Quer, Coma Pedrosa, Caldea spa tower.
Nightlife: Après-ski bars, Andorra la Vella pubs, alpine lounges.
Best Time to Visit: December to March for skiing; June to September for hiking.
Nearby Destinations: France, Spain.
Things to do in Andorra

Armenia

Regional Breakdown: Yerevan’s pink stone cityscape, Mount Ararat views, Lake Sevan, Dilijan forest retreat.
Culture & History: Oldest Christian nation, monasteries, Armenian Genocide Memorial, khachkars.
Where to Eat: Khorovats (BBQ), dolma, lavash, gata pastry, harissa stew.
Beaches & Nature: Lake Sevan beaches, Garni Gorge, Dilijan National Park, Mount Aragats.
Viewpoints: Cascade Complex, Sevanavank Monastery, Amberd Fortress.
Nightlife: Yerevan jazz clubs, rooftop lounges, wine houses.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
Nearby Destinations: Georgia, Iran, Azerbaijan.
Things to do in Armenia

Austria

Regional Breakdown: Vienna’s imperial elegance, Salzburg’s baroque charm, Innsbruck’s alpine hub, Hallstatt lakeside village.
Culture & History: Habsburg legacy, classical music, alpine traditions, Roman frontier ruins.
Where to Eat: Wiener schnitzel, sachertorte, apple strudel, knödel, Tafelspitz.
Beaches & Nature: Austrian Alps, Lake Wolfgang, Gesäuse National Park, Wachau Valley.
Viewpoints: Schafberg summit, Vienna’s Danube Tower, Nordkette cable car.
Nightlife: Vienna opera nights, Innsbruck ski bars, Salzburg taverns.
Best Time to Visit: May to September; December to February for skiing.
Nearby Destinations: Germany, Hungary, Switzerland, Italy.
Things to do in Austria

Azerbaijan

Regional Breakdown: Baku’s flame-lit skyline, Gobustan petroglyphs, Caspian coast, Caucasus Mountains.
Culture & History: Zoroastrian fire temples, Silk Road caravansaries, Soviet-modern fusion, Azerbaijani carpets.
Where to Eat: Plov, dolma, kebabs, kutab, baklava.
Beaches & Nature: Caspian Sea shores, Lahij trails, Sheki forests, mud volcanoes.
Viewpoints: Flame Towers, Highland Park, Quba mountain passes.
Nightlife: Baku clubs, beach resorts, rooftop lounges.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October.
Nearby Destinations: Georgia, Armenia, Iran.
Things to do in Azerbaijan

Belarus

Regional Breakdown: Minsk’s modern and Soviet contrasts, Brest Fortress, Mir and Nesvizh castles, nature reserves.
Culture & History: WWII memorials, Orthodox churches, Slavic folklore, post-Soviet identity.
Where to Eat: Draniki (potato pancakes), machanka, kvass, borscht, honey cake.
Beaches & Nature: Braslav Lakes, Belovezhskaya Pushcha, Narachanski National Park.
Viewpoints: Minsk Victory Square, Mir Castle towers, Dzyarzhynskaya Hara (highest point).
Nightlife: Minsk nightclubs, jazz cafés, riverfront bars.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Poland, Lithuania, Ukraine, Russia.
Things to do in Belarus

Belgium

Regional Breakdown: Brussels’ EU hub and Grand Place, Bruges canals, Antwerp fashion district, Ghent medieval core.
Culture & History: Flemish architecture, comic strip heritage, WWII sites, Art Nouveau.
Where to Eat: Waffles, moules-frites, Belgian chocolate, stoofvlees, beer pairings.
Beaches & Nature: Belgian coast (Ostend), Sonian Forest, Ardennes hills.
Viewpoints: Belfry of Bruges, Atomium, Citadel of Namur.
Nightlife: Beer cafes, music festivals, Brussels nightclubs.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
Nearby Destinations: Netherlands, France, Luxembourg.
Things to do in Belgium

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Regional Breakdown: Sarajevo’s old town, Mostar’s historic bridge, Kravice waterfalls, Blagaj cliffside monastery.
Culture & History: Ottoman heritage, Austro-Hungarian architecture, post-war recovery, religious diversity.
Where to Eat: Ćevapi, burek, dolma, baklava, Bosnian coffee.
Beaches & Nature: Una National Park, Kravice Falls, Hutovo Blato wetlands.
Viewpoints: Mostar Bridge, Yellow Fortress (Sarajevo), Vrelo Bune cliffs.
Nightlife: Sarajevo bars, riverside lounges in Mostar, music cafés.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
Nearby Destinations: Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia.
Things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bulgaria

Regional Breakdown: Sofia’s Roman ruins, Plovdiv’s old town, Black Sea resorts, Rila Mountains.
Culture & History: Thracian tombs, Orthodox churches, Cyrillic script origins, folklore festivals.
Where to Eat: Banitsa, Shopska salad, kavarma, tarator soup, grilled meats.
Beaches & Nature: Sunny Beach, Seven Rila Lakes, Pirin National Park, Cape Kaliakra.
Viewpoints: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tsarevets Fortress, Vitosha Mountain.
Nightlife: Sofia bars, Varna beach clubs, Plovdiv wine cellars.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
Nearby Destinations: Romania, Greece, Serbia, Turkey.
Things to do in Bulgaria

Cyprus

Regional Breakdown: Nicosia’s walled old town, Limassol seafront, Paphos ruins, Troodos Mountains.
Culture & History: Greek and Turkish roots, Byzantine monasteries, archaeological parks, divided capital.
Where to Eat: Souvla, sheftalia, halloumi, mezze, baklava.
Beaches & Nature: Nissi Beach, Akamas Peninsula, Cape Greco, Petra tou Romiou.
Viewpoints: Kourion cliffs, Troodos overlooks, St. Hilarion Castle.
Nightlife: Ayia Napa clubs, Limassol lounges, beach bars.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
Nearby Destinations: Greece, Turkey, Lebanon.
Things to do in Cyprus

Czech Republic

Regional Breakdown: Prague’s Old Town and castle district, Český Krumlov’s fairy-tale setting, Karlovy Vary spas, Moravian wine country.
Culture & History: Bohemian baroque, communist history, gothic cathedrals, beer heritage.
Where to Eat: Svickova, roast pork with dumplings, koláče, goulash, trdelník.
Beaches & Nature: Bohemian Switzerland, Šumava National Park, Moravian Karst caves.
Viewpoints: Petřín Lookout Tower, Prague Castle terrace, Pustevny ridge.
Nightlife: Prague beer halls, underground jazz clubs, rooftop lounges.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Poland.
Things to do in the Czech Republic

Denmark

Regional Breakdown: Copenhagen’s canals, Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn waterfront, Aarhus culture hub, Legoland Billund.
Culture & History: Viking heritage, Danish monarchy, minimalist design, hygge lifestyle.
Where to Eat: Smørrebrød, Danish pastries, frikadeller, new Nordic cuisine, hot dogs.
Beaches & Nature: Møns Klint, Skagen dunes, Nationalpark Thy, Bornholm island.
Viewpoints: Rundetårn, Egeskov Castle towers, Himmelbjerget hill.
Nightlife: Copenhagen jazz bars, craft beer pubs, student clubs in Aarhus.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Sweden, Norway, Germany.
Things to do in Denmark

Finland

Regional Breakdown: Helsinki’s design scene, Lapland’s snowfields, Saimaa lake region, Turku’s coastal charm.
Culture & History: Sámi heritage, sauna culture, medieval churches, design museums.
Where to Eat: Karelian pastries, salmon soup, reindeer stew, rye bread, bilberry desserts.
Beaches & Nature: Archipelago Sea, Nuuksio National Park, Oulanka trails, Northern wilderness.
Viewpoints: Helsinki Cathedral steps, Arctic Circle line, Olavinlinna Castle.
Nightlife: Helsinki clubs, Rovaniemi bars, lakefront lounges.
Best Time to Visit: June to August (midnight sun); December to March (Aurora season).
Nearby Destinations: Sweden, Russia, Estonia.
Things to do in Finland

France

Regional Breakdown: Paris boulevards, French Riviera beaches, Bordeaux vineyards, Normandy cliffs, Loire Valley castles.
Culture & History: Renaissance art, French Revolution, Impressionism, Gothic cathedrals.
Where to Eat: Croissants, coq au vin, ratatouille, bouillabaisse, macarons.
Beaches & Nature: Côte d’Azur, Dune du Pilat, Gorges du Verdon, Alsace wine road.
Viewpoints: Eiffel Tower, Mont Saint-Michel, Sacré-Cœur, Calanques cliffs.
Nightlife: Parisian jazz bars, Nice beach lounges, Lyon wine bars.
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October.
Nearby Destinations: Belgium, Spain, Switzerland.
Things to do in France

Georgia

Regional Breakdown: Tbilisi’s old town and sulphur baths, Batumi’s Black Sea coast, Caucasus Mountains, Kakheti wine region.
Culture & History: Jvari Monastery, Ancient Christian sites, Persian and Soviet influences, polyphonic singing, hospitality traditions.
Where to Eat: Khachapuri, khinkali, lobio, churchkhela, mtsvadi (grilled meat).
Beaches & Nature: Batumi beaches, Kazbegi mountains, Tusheti trails, Martvili Canyon.
Viewpoints: Narikala Fortress, Mtatsminda Park, Gergeti Trinity Church overlook.
Nightlife: Tbilisi wine bars, electronic clubs, Black Sea beachfront spots.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
Nearby Destinations: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey.
Things to do in Georgia

Germany

Regional Breakdown: Berlin’s arts and history, Munich’s Bavarian traditions, Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Black Forest trails, Hamburg’s port city life.
Culture & History: World War sites, Berlin Wall remnants, fairy tale castles, Oktoberfest, medieval towns.
Where to Eat: Bratwurst, schnitzel, currywurst, Bavarian pretzels, Black Forest cake.
Beaches & Nature: Bavarian Alps, Lake Königssee, Saxon Switzerland, North Sea and Baltic coastlines.
Viewpoints: Zugspitze summit, Fernsehturm in Berlin, Heidelberg Castle, Rhine Valley vineyards.
Nightlife: Berlin’s techno scene, beer halls in Munich, live jazz in Cologne, riverside lounges in Hamburg.
Best Time to Visit: May to September (outdoor travel); late September for Oktoberfest.
Nearby Destinations: Austria, Czech Republic, France, Poland.
Things to do in Germany

Greece

Regional Breakdown: Athens’ ancient ruins, Santorini’s caldera villages, Crete’s mountain villages, Mykonos nightlife, Rhodes’ old town.
Culture & History: Ancient Greek temples, Byzantine churches, Olympic heritage, mythology tours.
Where to Eat: Moussaka, souvlaki, grilled octopus, spanakopita, loukoumades.
Beaches & Nature: Navagio Beach (Zakynthos), Balos Lagoon (Crete), Elafonissi, Samaria Gorge.
Viewpoints: Oia sunset (Santorini), Lycabettus Hill (Athens), Mount Olympus trails.
Nightlife: Beach bars in Mykonos, traditional tavernas, Athens rooftop bars.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October.
Nearby Destinations: Turkey, Italy, Cyprus.
Things to do in Greece

Hungary

Regional Breakdown: Budapest’s historic core, Lake Balaton resorts, Eger wine region, Pécs cultural center.
Culture & History: Ottoman baths, Austro-Hungarian architecture, folk traditions, ruin pubs.
Where to Eat: Goulash, lángos, chimney cake, stuffed peppers, fisherman’s soup.
Beaches & Nature: Lake Balaton, Bükk Mountains, Hortobágy steppe.
Viewpoints: Fisherman’s Bastion, Gellért Hill, Castle Hill, Tihany Abbey.
Nightlife: Budapest ruin bars, thermal bath parties, jazz clubs.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
Nearby Destinations: Austria, Slovakia, Romania.
Things to do in Hungary

Iceland

Regional Breakdown: Reykjavik’s creative capital, Blue Lagoon spa, Golden Circle sites, volcanic landscapes of the south, Westfjords wilderness.
Culture & History: Viking sagas, geothermal energy, Norse mythology, Icelandic literature.
Where to Eat: Lamb, fermented shark, skyr, fish stew, hot dogs.
Beaches & Nature: Black sand beaches (Vik), geysers, waterfalls (Gullfoss, Dettifoss), glaciers.
Viewpoints: Hallgrímskirkja tower, Diamond Beach, Kerið crater, Snaefellsnes cliffs.
Nightlife: Reykjavik bars, midnight sun events, Northern Lights chases.
Best Time to Visit: June to August (midnight sun); October to March (Northern Lights).
Nearby Destinations: Norway, Greenland, Faroe Islands.
Things to do in Iceland

Ireland

Regional Breakdown: Dublin’s literary streets, Cliffs of Moher, Galway’s harbor charm, Ring of Kerry scenic loop.
Culture & History: Celtic mythology, monastic sites, Gaelic music, Irish independence.
Where to Eat: Irish stew, soda bread, boxty, seafood chowder, Guinness pie.
Beaches & Nature: Wild Atlantic Way, Connemara, Glendalough, Slieve League cliffs.
Viewpoints: Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Sky Road (Clifden), Rock of Cashel.
Nightlife: Dublin pubs, Galway trad sessions, Belfast live music, whiskey bars.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: United Kingdom, France.
Things to do in Ireland

Italy

Regional Breakdown: Rome ruins, Venice canals, Florence art, Amalfi Coast villages, Tuscany countryside.
Culture & History: Roman Empire, Renaissance art, Vatican treasures, medieval hill towns.
Where to Eat: Pizza Napoletana, pasta alla carbonara, gelato, tiramisu, arancini.
Beaches & Nature: Cinque Terre, Sardinia’s coves, Dolomites, Lake Como.
Viewpoints: Piazzale Michelangelo (Florence), Janiculum Hill (Rome), Capri cliffs.
Nightlife: Aperitivo in Milan, seaside lounges in Naples, Trastevere bars.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October.
Nearby Destinations: France, Switzerland, Croatia.
Things to do in Italy

Kosovo

Regional Breakdown: Pristina capital landmarks, Peć’s mountain monastery, Gračanica UNESCO church, Rugova Canyon.
Culture & History: Ottoman mosques, medieval Serbian heritage, post-war resilience, cultural revival.
Where to Eat: Flija, tavë kosi, qebapa, burek, local honey and cheese.
Beaches & Nature: Rugova Mountains, Brezovica ski resort, Batllava Lake.
Viewpoints: Germia Park, Gjeravica peak, fortress overlooks in Peć.
Nightlife: Pristina cafes and clubs, rooftop bars, lounge terraces.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro.
Things to do in Kosovo

Liechtenstein

Regional Breakdown: Vaduz capital sights, Rhine River valley, Malbun ski village, alpine trails.
Culture & History: Princes of Liechtenstein, medieval Vaduz Castle, postage museum, hiking traditions.
Where to Eat: Käsknöpfle, Ribel, schnitzel, apple strudel.
Beaches & Nature: Alpine lakes, Triesenberg meadows, Sass Trail.
Viewpoints: Vaduz Castle, Sareis chairlift, Gaflei cliffs.
Nightlife: Quiet wine bars, hotel lounges, alpine après-ski.
Best Time to Visit: June to September; December to March for skiing.
Nearby Destinations: Switzerland, Austria, Germany.
Things to do in Liechtenstein

Luxembourg

Regional Breakdown: Luxembourg City’s fortress views, Vianden Castle, Ardennes forests, Moselle Valley vineyards.
Culture & History: Grand Duchy heritage, medieval towns, WWII sites, trilingual culture.
Where to Eat: Gromperekichelcher, Judd mat Gaardebounen, Riesling wines, Luxembourg cheese.
Beaches & Nature: Upper Sûre Lake, Mullerthal trails, Berdorf cliffs.
Viewpoints: Bock Casemates, Chemin de la Corniche, Vianden lookout.
Nightlife: Wine taverns, cozy pubs, riverside bars.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Belgium, France, Germany.
Things to do in Luxembourg

Malta

Regional Breakdown: Valletta’s baroque core, Mdina’s fortified quiet, Gozo island charm, Comino’s Blue Lagoon.
Culture & History: Knights of Malta, Neolithic temples, WWII sites, Mediterranean fusion.
Where to Eat: Pastizzi, rabbit stew, ftira, lampuki pie.
Beaches & Nature: Golden Bay, Blue Grotto, Ramla Beach, Dingli Cliffs.
Viewpoints: Upper Barrakka Gardens, Mdina bastions, Citadel in Gozo.
Nightlife: St. Julian’s clubs, Valletta wine bars, beach parties.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
Nearby Destinations: Italy, Tunisia.
Things to do in Malta

Moldova

Regional Breakdown: Chișinău’s parks and museums, Cricova wine cellars, Orheiul Vechi monastery complex, Gagauzia region.
Culture & History: Soviet-era buildings, Romanian roots, Orthodox churches, winemaking heritage.
Where to Eat: Mămăligă, sarmale, zeamă soup, placinte pastries, Moldovan wines.
Beaches & Nature: Dniester River banks, Codrii Forest Reserve, Saharna Monastery cliffs.
Viewpoints: Orheiul Vechi cliffs, Chișinău Victory Arch, Saharna viewpoints.
Nightlife: Wine bars, café concerts, Chișinău pubs.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
Nearby Destinations: Romania, Ukraine.
Things to do in Moldova

Monaco

Regional Breakdown: Monte Carlo casinos, Formula 1 Grand Prix route, Monaco-Ville old town, Larvotto Beach.
Culture & History: Grimaldi royal history, Oceanographic Museum, Belle Époque architecture.
Where to Eat: Barbagiuan, seafood, Provençal dishes, fine dining at Le Louis XV.
Beaches & Nature: Mediterranean coast, Exotic Garden, Saint-Martin gardens.
Viewpoints: Prince’s Palace terrace, Tête de Chien, Casino Square.
Nightlife: Monte Carlo casinos, yacht clubs, luxury lounges.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
Nearby Destinations: France, Italy.
Things to do in Monaco

Montenegro

Regional Breakdown: Bay of Kotor fjords, Budva Riviera, Durmitor National Park, Lovćen peaks.
Culture & History: Venetian towns, Orthodox monasteries, Ottoman fortresses, Adriatic traditions.
Where to Eat: Njeguški pršut, kacamak, seafood stew, black risotto, grilled trout.
Beaches & Nature: Jaz Beach, Lake Skadar, Tara River Canyon, Biogradska Gora forest.
Viewpoints: Kotor Fortress, Lovćen Mausoleum, Tara Bridge.
Nightlife: Budva beach clubs, Kotor jazz bars, seaside lounges.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
Nearby Destinations: Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia, Albania.
Things to do in Montenegro

Netherlands

Regional Breakdown: Amsterdam’s canals and museums, Keukenhof Gardens, Zaanse Schans windmills, Utrecht’s medieval core.
Culture & History: Dutch Golden Age art, Anne Frank House, bike culture, historic merchant cities.
Where to Eat: Stroopwafels, bitterballen, haring, poffertjes, Dutch pancakes.
Beaches & Nature: Dunes of Texel, Biesbosch National Park, North Sea beaches, tulip fields in spring.
Viewpoints: A’DAM Lookout (Amsterdam), Dom Tower (Utrecht), Muiderslot Castle.
Nightlife: Canal bars in Amsterdam, student pubs in Groningen, techno clubs in Rotterdam.
Best Time to Visit: April to October; April for tulips.
Nearby Destinations: Belgium, Germany, France.
Things to do in the Netherlands

North Macedonia

Regional Breakdown: Skopje’s city monuments, Lake Ohrid’s UNESCO shores, Mavrovo ski areas, monasteries in the mountains.
Culture & History: Byzantine churches, Ottoman bazaars, ancient ruins, multicultural influences.
Where to Eat: Tavče gravče, ajvar, kebapi, baklava, Ohrid trout.
Beaches & Nature: Lake Ohrid, Matka Canyon, Pelister National Park, Galicica peaks.
Viewpoints: Samuel’s Fortress, Millennium Cross, Galičica Pass.
Nightlife: Skopje bars, lake clubs in Ohrid, folk taverns.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
Nearby Destinations: Albania, Greece, Serbia, Kosovo.
Things to do in North Macedonia

Norway

Regional Breakdown: Oslo’s cultural core, Bergen’s colorful wharf, Lofoten Islands, Geirangerfjord region.
Culture & History: Viking ships, stave churches, Sámi traditions, Nobel Peace Center.
Where to Eat: Salmon, reindeer, brunost cheese, cloudberries, fish cakes.
Beaches & Nature: Fjords, Northern Lights, Preikestolen, Jotunheimen mountains.
Viewpoints: Trolltunga, Fløyen funicular, Arctic Cathedral, Reinebringen trail.
Nightlife: Oslo jazz lounges, Bergen student pubs, Tromsø bars.
Best Time to Visit: May to September (fjords); winter for Northern Lights.
Nearby Destinations: Sweden, Denmark, Iceland.
Things to do in Norway

Poland

Regional Breakdown: Kraków’s medieval charm, Warsaw’s modern capital, Zakopane’s mountain culture, Gdańsk’s maritime legacy.
Culture & History: WWII memorials, Jewish heritage, Solidarity movement, royal castles.
Where to Eat: Pierogi, bigos, zapiekanka, kielbasa, Polish donuts (pączki).
Beaches & Nature: Baltic Sea coast, Tatra Mountains, Białowieża Forest, Masurian Lake District.
Viewpoints: Wawel Hill, Gubałówka, Warsaw Palace of Culture.
Nightlife: Kraków pubs, Warsaw clubs, Gdańsk beer gardens.
Best Time to Visit: May to October.
Nearby Destinations: Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine.
Things to do in Poland

Portugal

Regional Breakdown: Lisbon’s hills and trams, Porto’s wine cellars, Algarve’s cliffs, Madeira’s lush landscapes.
Culture & History: Age of Discovery heritage, Fado music, Moorish castles, tiled facades.
Where to Eat: Bacalhau, pastéis de nata, bifanas, grilled sardines, Francesinha (Porto).
Beaches & Nature: Praia da Marinha (Algarve), Levada walks (Madeira), Douro Valley.
Viewpoints: Miradouros in Lisbon, Clérigos Tower (Porto), Cabo da Roca.
Nightlife: Bairro Alto bars, Fado houses, beach lounges in Lagos.
Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to October.
Nearby Destinations: Spain, Morocco, Azores.
Things to do in Portugal

San Marino

Regional Breakdown: City of San Marino, Monte Titano peaks, Guaita fortress, medieval streets.
Culture & History: World’s oldest republic, fortress towers, papal resistance, philately.
Where to Eat: Torta Tre Monti, piadina, passatelli, San Marino wines.
Beaches & Nature: Monte Titano trails, Apennine outlooks, countryside drives.
Viewpoints: Guaita and Cesta towers, Piazza della Libertà, panoramic terraces.
Nightlife: Wine bars, cultural cafes, summer festivals.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Italy, Vatican City.
Things to do in San Marino

Serbia

Regional Breakdown: Belgrade fortress and nightlife, Novi Sad’s Danube charm, Tara National Park, Niš historical core.
Culture & History: Roman heritage, Ottoman legacy, Orthodox monasteries, music festivals.
Where to Eat: Ćevapi, sarma, pljeskavica, ajvar, kajmak.
Beaches & Nature: Uvac Canyon, Đerdap Gorge, Fruška Gora vineyards.
Viewpoints: Kalemegdan Fortress, Avala Tower, Tara viewpoints.
Nightlife: Belgrade’s river clubs, Exit Festival in Novi Sad, kafana taverns.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Hungary, Bosnia, Montenegro, North Macedonia.
Things to do in Serbia

Slovakia

Regional Breakdown: Bratislava’s castle and old town, High Tatras hiking, Slovak Paradise caves, Košice’s Gothic flair.
Culture & History: Medieval castles, folk crafts, wooden churches, Iron Curtain history.
Where to Eat: Bryndzové halušky, kapustnica, lokše, Slovak goulash.
Beaches & Nature: High Tatras, Slovak Paradise, Orava Lake, Demänovská Caves.
Viewpoints: Lomnický štít cable car, Bratislava Castle hill, Slovenský Raj lookouts.
Nightlife: Bratislava bars, wine cellars, Košice pubs.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Nearby Destinations: Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland.
Things to do in Slovakia

Spain

Regional Breakdown: Madrid’s museums and parks, Barcelona’s Gaudí landmarks, Seville’s flamenco culture, Costa Brava beaches, Balearic Island escapes.
Culture & History: Moorish palaces, Gothic cathedrals, Spanish Civil War sites, La Tomatina and Semana Santa festivals.
Where to Eat: Tapas, paella, churros con chocolate, jamón ibérico, sangria.
Beaches & Nature: Costa del Sol, Ibiza’s coves, Canary Islands volcanic landscapes, Picos de Europa.
Viewpoints: Park Güell, Alhambra balconies, Montjuïc, Ronda’s Puente Nuevo.
Nightlife: Tapas crawls in Madrid, beach clubs in Ibiza, flamenco in Seville, rooftop terraces in Barcelona.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November; summer for coastal fun.
Nearby Destinations: Portugal, France, Andorra, Morocco.
Things to do in Spain

Sweden

Regional Breakdown: Stockholm’s old town and archipelago, Lapland’s Arctic wilderness, Gotland’s medieval towns, Malmö’s modern coast.
Culture & History: Viking heritage, royal palaces, ABBA and Nordic design, ancient rune stones.
Where to Eat: Swedish meatballs, gravlax, toast skagen, herring varieties, semla pastries.
Beaches & Nature: Swedish Lapland, Lake Vänern, Höga Kusten cliffs, Abisko National Park.
Viewpoints: Katarinahissen (Stockholm), Kebnekaise summit, Visby city walls.
Nightlife: Stockholm bars, Gothenburg clubs, ice bars in Lapland.
Best Time to Visit: May to September; December to March for Northern Lights.
Nearby Destinations: Norway, Finland, Denmark.
Things to do in Sweden

Switzerland

Regional Breakdown: Zurich’s cosmopolitan cityscape, Lucerne’s lakeside charm, Zermatt’s Matterhorn, Interlaken’s alpine adventure, Jungfrau region.
Culture & History: Swiss neutrality, watchmaking, traditional alpine villages, medieval old towns.
Where to Eat: Fondue, raclette, rösti, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, Swiss chocolate.
Beaches & Nature: Lake Geneva, Rhine Falls, Lauterbrunnen Valley, Glacier Express route.
Viewpoints: Gornergrat, Harder Kulm, Jungfraujoch, Mount Pilatus.
Nightlife: Zurich lake clubs, ski village bars, Geneva lounges.
Best Time to Visit: December to March (skiing); June to September (hiking and lakes).
Nearby Destinations: France, Germany, Austria, Italy.
Things to do in Switzerland

United Kingdom

Regional Breakdown: London landmarks, Scottish Highlands, Stonehenge, Lake District hikes, Northern Ireland’s coastlines.
Culture & History: Monarchy heritage, Roman ruins, Shakespearean theatre, medieval castles.
Where to Eat: Fish and chips, haggis, Cornish pasties, Sunday roast, English breakfast.
Beaches & Nature: Cornwall’s coast, Isle of Skye cliffs, Giant’s Causeway, Snowdonia National Park.
Viewpoints: Tower Bridge, Arthur’s Seat, Durdle Door, Ben Nevis summit.
Nightlife: London pubs, Manchester clubs, Glasgow music venues, Edinburgh fringe bars.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for mild weather and festivals.
Nearby Destinations: Ireland, France, Netherlands.
Things to do in the United Kingdom

Vatican City

Regional Breakdown: St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Apostolic Palace.
Culture & History: Catholic epicenter, Renaissance masterpieces, papal traditions, Michelangelo’s legacy.
Where to Eat: Traditional Roman cuisine nearby (Trastevere), religious guesthouse dining.
Beaches & Nature: Not applicable; urban enclave surrounded by Rome.
Viewpoints: St. Peter’s dome, Vatican Gardens, Piazza San Pietro.
Nightlife: Limited; explore Roman nightlife just outside the Vatican walls.
Best Time to Visit: April to October.
Nearby Destinations: Italy, San Marino.
Things to do in Vatican City

Custom Experiences & Safety Tips

Custom Experiences:

Wine tasting in Bordeaux, Chianti, Douro Valley, or Georgia’s Kakheti.
Thermal spa experiences in Hungary, Iceland, and Slovenia.
Cooking classes in Tuscany, Provence, and Catalonia.
Private castle and fortress tours across Central and Eastern Europe.
Train journeys like the Glacier Express (Switzerland) or Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia).

Safety Tips:

Always carry a copy of your passport and travel insurance.
Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded cities and public transport.
Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps in major cities.
Learn basic local phrases or download translation apps for easier communication.
Keep updated on travel advisories, especially for border or political changes in Eastern Europe.

Start planning your dream Europe trip today

Europe invites you to walk centuries-old streets, relax in alpine lakes, sip wine under medieval towers, and feast on flavors passed down for generations. Whether you’re into adventure, architecture, cuisine, or culture — every country has a story to share, and discover top-rated tours, day trips, and experiences with Viator and make your adventure unforgettable. Visit our Homepage