Europe is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountain ranges, enchanting beaches, and picturesque islands. Though its three major cities—London, Paris, and Rome—draw the most tourists, each of the continent’s 44 countries offers its own unique blend of exciting cultures and historic sites.
Europe’s varied and dreamlike landscapes belie the continent’s small size, from the stunning snow-covered beauty of Scandinavia to the lovely coasts of the Mediterranean.
The towering Alps, to provide just one example, are home to a wide variety of natural wonders, from glistening waterfalls and shimmering lakes to amazing rock formations and breathtaking vistas. Europe is home to a staggering number of breathtaking locations, and it would take a lifetime to see them all.
25. Picos de Europa
The Picos de Europa are a stunningly gorgeous mountain range in the far north of Spain. They are made up of three spectacular massifs. Its peaks and plateaus cover a huge region and can be found in all three of Spain’s autonomous communities: Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and Leon.
The “Peaks of Europe” and the adjoining national park are a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers because of the incredible beauty of the area. Macizo Andara, Macizo El Cornion, and Macizo Central are three towering peaks that rise to more than 2,400 meters above the surrounding landscape of lush meadows, soaring river gorges, and glittering lakes.
24. Seljalandsfoss
One of the most well-known and frequently photographed sights in all of Iceland, Seljalandsfoss is located in the island’s southern region. The beautiful waterfall drops around 60 meters down the edge of a cliff, sparkling in the sunlight before plunging into the charming pool below in a mist of spray.
The best shots of the falls and cliffs can be taken from behind the water’s veil. The roar of the waterfall, the spray on your face, and the sight of the glistening Seljalandsfoss beyond the little cave are all things that will leave you in amazement.
23. Seven Rila Lakes
The Seven Rila Lakes are a famous tourist destination in Bulgaria due to their gorgeous setting within the towering Rila mountain range. Situated in the country’s southwestern corner, the seven lakes glitter in the sun and are linked by a short chain of streams, cascades, and waterfalls.
The pristine waters of “The Tear” can be contrasted with the circular shoreline of “The Eye,” both lakes having been given their names based on their most distinguishing features. Located at an altitude of about 6,000 ft (over 2,000 m), the lakes are encircled by towering peaks that provide access to beautiful hiking routes and breathtaking vistas.
22. Venice
Venice is one of the world’s most beautiful and romantic cities, with breathtaking works of art and architecture around every corner. The “Floating City” spans 118 tiny islands in Italy’s northeast and is connected by picturesque canals and gorgeous old bridges.
Magnificent marble palaces, ancient churches, and astounding art museums line its beautiful waterways, and numerous more historic sites and cultural attractions can be found throughout the city. It’s always a pleasure to discover new corners of Venice’s charming streets, beautiful piazzas, and picturesque islands. The vibrant carnival is a great time to explore this city.
21. Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands, with their stunning lochs, glens, and majestic mountain ranges, are among Europe’s most scenic regions. The area north and west of the Highland Boundary Fault is typically considered to be part of this relatively sparsely inhabited region.
The highest point in the British Isles, Ben Nevis, is located here, as are the legendary waters of Loch Ness and a number of beautiful national parks. The Scottish Highlands are known not only for their breathtaking natural beauty, but also for their rich history and legacy, which can be seen in the form of crumbling castles and charming villages and towns.
20. Transfagarasan Highway
The Transfagarasan Highway, which winds through the Carpathian Mountains, is generally regarded as one of the most breathtaking drives on the planet. The road, which was constructed between 1970 and 1974, cuts through the geographic heart of Romania, passing through a variety of high mountain passes and river basins.
The roadway is popular for hiking, cycling, and driving despite its hairpin twists, steep and severe descents, and breathtaking views. On their journey to or from the ancient areas of Transylvania and Wallachia, travelers can stop off at the lovely Balea Lake and waterfall to take in the wonderful mountains all around.
19. Madeira
The stunning subtropical archipelago of Madeira is located at least a thousand kilometers from the coast of Portugal, surrounded by the turbulent waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Its unspoiled landscape has earned it the nickname “Garden Island,” and the island’s majestic mountains and coastline cliffs provide for stunning vistas against the backdrop of the setting sun.
Porto da Cruz and Paul do Mar are two of the best beaches and towns in the area, and the sailing, surfing, and scuba diving surrounding the islands is wonderful. A fantastic network of hiking routes with breathtaking ocean vistas crisscrosses the island.
18. Lapland
Lapland, a winter paradise spanning Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia, is situated far north of the Arctic Circle. The arctic area is a beautiful place to visit, with its infinite forests, glacial lakes, and glittering ice fields. Popular activities include skiing, dog sledding, and hiking.
A visit to Lapland is best enjoyed from the comfort of a cozy lodge in the woods or one of the picturesque, snow-covered towns. No trip to the home of Santa Claus, his elves, and his reindeer would be complete without seeing the incredible Northern Lights.
17. Pulpit Rock
Pulpit Rock, also known as Preikestolen, is a remarkable rock formation in the southwestern region of Norway. It provides a breathtaking vantage point over the beautiful Lysefjorden.
The cliff was shaped by glaciers and rises 604 meters above its surroundings, providing breathtaking views of the black waters and dramatic landscapes below. As beautiful as it is, Pulpit Rock continues to draw hordes of visitors annually.
16. The Dolomites
The Dolomites are a magnificent mountain range located in northeastern Italy, and they are home to wide-open valleys, lush alpine meadows, and breathtaking summits. The Pale Mountains, spanning many districts, are a famous tourist destination known for their stunning scenery and plenty of hiking trails and ski runs.
Marmalada is the highest park at 3,343 meters. Among the most striking features of this range are the three peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the six peaks of the Vajolet Towers. The Dolomites are a pleasure to explore year-round because of their breathtaking landscapes and panoramic vistas, which are equally impressive in the summer and winter.
15. Korcula Town
Korcula Town is located in a very picturesque area, surrounded by azure lakes, verdant forests, and towering mountains. Located near the island’s eastern tip, this charming town is home to some of Croatia’s most impressive examples of Renaissance and Gothic architecture.
Within its massive walls lie a picturesque port and shoreline, as well as historic churches, Venetian palaces, and winding alleys. Korcula Town is not only home to a charming historic district but also to some fantastic beaches where you can swim in the warm Adriatic.
14. Kravica Waterfalls
The Kravica Waterfalls are a beautiful pair of waterfalls tucked away in the rugged karst environment of southern Bosnia and Herzegovina. At a height of 25 meters and a length of 120 meters, the cascades are both impressive and serene. The gorgeous pool below is threatened by powerful jets of water that shoot through the space between the thick green overgrowth.
The tranquil Kravica Waterfalls are a popular summertime day trip destination from Mostar, Medjugorje, and Dubrovnik where visitors can swim, picnic, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
13. Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are a lovely and atmospheric archipelago that can be found roughly equidistant between Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom in the Atlantic. The remote islands, which are technically part of Denmark, include a variety of breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains that gaze out over wild, cliff-lined coastlines and secluded bays.
The islands of the Faroes are covered in fields populated by sheep and lovely meadows, and are peppered with quaint small towns and villages. The Faroe Islands are a fantastic travel destination for anybody interested in seeing beautiful landscapes, thrilling fjords by boat, or learning about a really distinct culture.
12. Bay of Kotor
The Bay of Kotor, one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Balkans, is so stunning that it is difficult to put into words. Located in the southwest corner of Montenegro, just inland from the Adriatic Sea, is a stunning bay with dazzling gulfs, straits, and coves hemmed in by steep mountains and imposing cliffs.
Kotor’s old town is the most popular destination in the bay, but the bay itself is renowned for its beauty and is home to centuries-old citadels and lonely island monasteries. All of these treasures can be found inside the old city walls that run along the bay’s beautiful shores.
11. Tulip Fields in Holland
The vibrant tulip fields of the Netherlands are one of the country’s most iconic sights, and they seem to go on forever. Visitors have been drawn to the region’s spectacular flowerbeds and elaborately maintained gardens since the late 16th century, when the exquisite bulbs first arrived and “tulip mania” swept Europe.
Keukenhof, with its seven million tulips, daffodils, and roses, is by far the largest and best of its floral parks. It’s fun to ride a bike or walk through the beautiful gardens in Holland and take pictures of the vibrant purple, pink, orange, and red blossoms blowing in the breeze.
10. Verdon Gorge
Verdon Gorge is stunning to see, what with its gleaming turquoise waters and pristine white limestone cliffs. The ravine, which can be found in the southeastern part of France, is about 25 kilometers long and may plummet to a depth of 700 meters.
Its spectacular surroundings, which have earned it the nickname “Grand Canyon of Europe,” are ideal for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking.
The Verdon River cut the great canyon through the rock millennia ago, and the most impressive section of the gorge is located between the towns of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
9. Meteora
The Eastern Orthodox monasteries of Meteora are one of the most stunning and awe-inspiring sites in all of Greece, perched precariously on teetering granite pillars. The majestic monasteries, with chapels and churches decorated with frescoes, tower over the beautiful landscape of the Plain of Thessaly.
Built into the edge of the cliffs in the 14th century, they are only accessible by climbing a long, winding set of stone stairs. Even though many Byzantine monasteries are now in ruins, six continue to operate to this day. The mesmerizing Meteora complex is one of the most significant and spectacular religious attractions in the country.
8. Lake Bled
Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s top tourist destinations, is located in a beautiful area between forests and mountains, with the towering peaks of the Julian Alps providing a dramatic backdrop. The gorgeous island in the center of the mirrored waters just adds to the beauty of the area.
Beautiful Gothic frescoes can be seen within the church found here. From across the lake, among the trees, the bell tower can be seen. It doesn’t matter what time of year you go; Lake Bled is always a great time to visit because of how picturesque it is.
7. Sintra
Sintra, about 30 kilometers to the northwest of Lisbon, is a fantastic destination because of its majestic castles, palaces, and historic villas. In awe of the breathtaking landscape, successive generations of Portuguese kings and queens built grand palaces atop the region’s towering mountains and hills.
In addition to the decaying Castle of the Moors and the lovely palaces of Sintra and Pena, tourists can also explore lavish estates with beautifully designed gardens. The town center is just as charming, with its pastel-colored buildings housing classic restaurants, shops, and cafés.
6. Hallstatt
Hallstatt has been nicknamed the “Pearl of Austria” because of its stunning location and exceptional natural beauty, making it appear like something out of a storybook. The lovely town, painted in soft pastels, cascades down into the mirror-like waters below from its perch between towering mountains.
The town has long been famous for its salt resources, and several nearby caverns and mines can be explored on day trips from the city. Hallstatt’s exquisite beachfront, with its amazing vistas, makes for a really enchanting stroll, despite the crowds that often greet you there.
5. Santorini
The stunning island of Santorini, the most southern of the Cyclades, can be found in the Aegean Sea’s southernmost region. The little group of rocky islands is a popular tourist attraction because of its unique geology and proximity to the mainland.
small, picturesque villages with dazzling white houses and blue-roofed churches along the crest of its slope. Hiking around the caldera or taking a boat trip are great ways to take in the famous picture of the Greek islands away from the crowds that congregate in Fira and Oia during the summer.
4. Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are a sight to see, with their jagged peaks, deep fjords, and picturesque beaches and bays that rise steeply from the water. Located to the northwest of Norway, this beautiful island has unspoiled scenery and meadows full of sheep, as well as protected coves and quiet fishing villages.
The islands, which are easily accessible by foot or bike thanks to the many tunnels and bridges that link them to the mainland, are a popular tourist destination. Finally, wherever you look, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking scenery. The spectacular Northern Lights can also be seen in the sky over the Lofoten Islands.
3. Fussen
Located in southern Bavaria, at the foot of the Alps, the charming town of Fussen serves as the last destination along Germany’s Romantic Road. The town is mainly famous for the three fantastic fairytale castles that are hidden in the surrounding hills and mountains, but its well-preserved historic center is also worth seeing.
Of them, the most famous and impressive is without a doubt Neuschwanstein, the enchanted castle that served as the model for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. In addition to its notable historical sites, Fussen is home to several scenic hiking trails that showcase the region’s beautiful lakes, forests, and mountains.
2. Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast, one of Italy’s most beautiful and famous coastlines, is situated to the south of Naples. Rugged cliffs and magnificent mountains rise sharply from the Mediterranean, while picturesque towns and villages dot the landscape.
The towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are known for their pastel-colored palaces and piazzas, in addition to their stunning views and lovely scenery. The beauty of the Amalfi Coast is unmistakable, whether one is relaxing on a beach, hiking through the hills, or sailing along its sun-kissed coastlines.
1. Lauterbrunnen Valley
Magnificent mountains, glittering glaciers, and an incredible 72 waterfalls make up the backdrop of Lauterbrunnen Valley. Cozy chalets and lovely mountain villages like Lauterbrunnen, Murren, and Wengen dot its picture-perfect pastures and alpine meadows.
The valley is surrounded by towering cliffs and glistening waterfalls, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with its abundance of trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of the most breathtaking sites in Switzerland, thanks to its stunning natural beauty.
