places to visit europe 2023

23 Best hidden gems in Europe: off the beaten path places for 2023

Home » Destinations » Europe » 23 Best hidden gems in Europe: off the beaten path places for 2023

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Updated: 12th January 2023

Exploring the best hidden gems in Europe often means slow-rumbling scenic bus journeys through less-traversed valleys, epic hikes to almost-forgotten hamlets, or heart-thumping sailings to windswept isolated isles.

Some may call that inconvenient. I call it winning.

If you’re happiest pointing to a random place on a map called Počitelj – as I am often inclined – and dutifully heading there on a whim, then this list, my friends, is for you.

Of course, going off the beaten path in Europe will mean something different for everyone. Thus, I’ve aimed to include a decent balance between remote isles , secluded villages, under-the-radar sustainable city breaks , and lesser-visited lofty peaks.

Whether you’re looking for unique places to visit in Europe or just a city break that isn’t one of the usual suspects, I hope you’ll find a favourite amongst my picks of the best places to visit in Europe this year.

In no particular order, enjoy my 23 best Europe hidden gems for 2023 – let the new year of adventures commence!

Stay connected in Europe with unlimited data : Buy your Holafly eSIM for Europe (5% discount code: danflyingsolo)

Views over an Ottoman village in Bosnia Herzegovina

In this article...

1. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Remotest Corners

One of the best hidden gems in Europe for adventure activities, Ottoman architecture and remote communities

Can I get away with calling a whole county a hidden gem? Maybe not. Yet, for the most part, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains a relatively off-the-beaten-path – and affordable – destination in Europe.

After two deep dive visits, I’m convinced the country’s greatest asset is the mesmerising near-photoshopped lakes, the lush countryside, and the lofty hiking trails.

While Mostar is rightly famed for its Ottoman architecture and history-defining bridge, ‘doing’ B&H as a day trip from Dubrovnik will never give the nation the justice it deserves.

Some of my favourite lesser-visited spots ripe for adventure activities include the Neretva River and Zavala. Konjic is the place to go for relaxing river rafting – the water is so clear it might as well be Evian. Kravica Waterfall is another epic water-heavy spot, and the cascades are beyond photogenic.

In Zavala – population two – you can spend the night sleeping in a converted railway station. The abandoned tracks have now been reimagined as an epic cycling adventure. Heaven-reaching Bjelašnica mountain is also rich in trails, leading you to Lukomir , the most isolated hamlet in the country. Here, 1,495 meters above sea level, a community of shepherds, ancient tombstones, and timelessness await.

But the real magic for me in Bosnia and Herzegovina is those little moments. Whether it’s being serenaded by guitar as a chatty host pours homemade wine in Zavala, or sipping a sand-boiled Bosnian coffee overlooking the minarets of Ottoman Počitelj, it’s those journey-defining memories that capture the essence of ‘hidden Europe’ at its best.

2. Graz, Austria

One of the most underrated European cities for a sustainable city break, served with a first-class culinary scene and architectural treasures

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is still something of a hidden gem on Europe’s city-break scene. Partly due to the lack of direct flight connections, but also because it doesn’t have the legendary status that Salzburg, Vienna or even the Austrian Alps commandeer. Don’t let that deter you; it’s very much the green city’s appeal.

Not only is Graz an extremely sustainable city break (especially if you arrive flight-free), but its setting, surrounded by the Styrian countryside, promises plenty of farm-to-fork dining. Prepare to reconsider all your ideas about Austrian cuisine, as this city takes fresh produce, creative recipes, and vegetarian plates to another level.

Unsurprisingly for a city which has earned two UNESCO designations, there are plenty of things to do in Graz .

On the one hand, Graz’s historic World Heritage-listed core delivers everything you’d expect from a grand European city. There are Italian-esque courtyards aplenty, medieval cobbled streets, the remains of a hilltop fortress, frescoed facades, grand avenues, and church spires climbing to the heavens.

Then you have the other side, where Graz’s status as a ‘City of Design’ shines through. A floating artificial island doubles as a small gallery, a somewhat out-of-place modern art museum presents like a tentacled alien, and up-and-coming neighbourhoods capture the best of off the beaten path Europe.

Graz is a city best savoured slowly; indeed one of my favourite unusual European destinations for a city-cum-countryside getaway.

3. Pico Island, The Azores, Portugal

One of the best places to visit in Europe for lofty hikes, lava tunnel exploration, Atlantic swell and inspiring wines

With a flurry of new flight routes launching in 2023 – from as far afield as Boston and NYC – the Azores are enjoying a moment in the spotlight. While most attention is focused on São Miguel, the largest isle of the nine-strong archipelago, for a more off-the-beaten-path experience venture to Pico.

Literally called ‘peak’, it should be no surprise Portugal’s highest mountain crowns this verdant-cerulean speck in the Atlantic Ocean.

Towering up to the heavens – and often piercing the clouds – Mount Pico’s summit rewards with far-reaching vistas from 2,351 metres. New restrictions have come into force in 2023 to protect the fragile landscape, and a guide is highly recommended, especially on a night hike .

Adventures also continue far below the surface at Gruta das Torres. Here, you can venture inside the dark depths of the largest lava tube in Portugal and explore more of this unique island .

Back at ground zero, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pico’s vineyards provides a delicious curiosity. Weathered vines rise from the black volcanic rock, telling the back-breaking story of creating viniculture in such an adverse setting.

Then, out in the deep blue, marine-biologist-led boat tours will help you spot dolphins and whales in the wild. This hidden gem of Europe isn’t so easy to visit, but it certainly delivers the goods.

4. Villa Romana del Casale, Italy

One of the the best hidden gems in Europe for Roman mosaics on the grandest scale

At Villa Romana del Casale, you’ll find what UNESCO call “the finest mosaics in situ anywhere in the Roman world”.

While it might seem that such treasures should be in and around Rome , this well-preserved example is actually in the sun-kissed southern island of Sicily.

As you slowly stroll through the vast villa – constructed in the 4th century AD – you’ll have a constant stream of story-depicting tiles to admire which decorate every inch of floor below the raised walkways. It’s an absolutely mind-blowing site, deserving of its UNESCO recognition, and delivers a cultural side to everything else that Sicily , one of the best islands to visit , offers.

If you aren’t that far south but still want mosaic marvels, head to Palestrina, a 70-minute bus ride from Rome. Here, inside the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Palestrina , you can see the Hellenistic Nile Mosaic, which pre-dates christ. It’s a remarkable and detailed artwork depicting mythical scenes of Egypt.

5. Vipava Valley, Slovenia

Perfect for a mountain-backed eco-escape cycling between vineyards and private cellars

Slovenia’s finally getting the attention it deserves. The green city of Ljubljana is becoming a popular weekend break, and the mystical magic of Lake Bled is now a firm traveller favourite.

However, as I see from my Slovenian friends on Facebook, their beloved capital is starting to suffer over-tourism and the related property rent issues that always follow.

Thankfully, much of this lush country remains blissfully off the beaten path, and Vipava Valley is undoubtedly one of Europe’s best hidden gems for now.

Vipava Valley, a Europe hidden gem in Slovenia

Slow travel and sustainability aren’t buzzwords in Slovenia; they are a way of life, and nowhere is this truer than in Vipava Valley. A gorgeous canvas of greenery, hills and vineyards, you could easily mistake this for a Tuscan painting at first glance.

The joy of visiting Vipava is found while cycling or hiking between the hamlets, heading into the art-inspiring mountains, Paragliding powered by the valley’s beloved wind – affectionately nicknamed The Burja – or sampling every zero-kilometre food morsel that is put in front of you.

Then, there are the home-grown wines. With an unknown number of wine cellars here – everyone seems to have one under their house – even the most inauspicious homes often double up as a restaurant. Sipping these signature grapes, such as the indigenous Zelen, while hearing stories of times gone by in candle-lit cellars, is a travel memory you’ll treasure.

6. León, Spain

One of the best hidden gems in Europe for architecture-admirers seeking a laid-back city break

Spain is home to many of Europe’s hidden gems , even though they are often significant and famed cities. There are just frankly too many destinations in the country to visit, which makes even places like León something of an unusual Europe destination for many travellers.

But it shouldn’t be. This city has the lot.

There’s a great food scene, with an abundance of mouthwatering free-tapas bars packing out the pedestrianised centre. The nightlife is excellent while staying reasonably laid-back, and the city is compact, with the pumping bar quarter a labyrinth of delicious treats and late-night laughter.

León’s main draw, however, is its architecture – and being home to one of Gaudí’s designs has ensured it’s not an off the beaten path European destination for fans of the flamboyant architect. Casa Botines, one of his only works outside Catalonia, brings a Modernist contrast to the city’s otherwise aged-architectural treasures.

From marvelling at the impeccable 13th-century stained-glass windows in the cathedral – some of the best in Europe – to taking in the Romanesque frescoes of the basilica, grandeur and superb artistry are on full display here.

León might not be the most secret spot in Europe, but it steps up to the challenge of diverting people from the likes of Madrid with glee.

7. The Georgian Caucasus Mountains

One of the best Europe hidden gems for an affordable mountain retreat of epic hikes

Spanning from Georgia to Azerbaijan and connecting two continents, the Georgian Caucasus Mountains offer incredible hiking trails in the warmer months, while winter brings snowy escapades.

Georgia, especially the capital city of Tbilisi, has been gaining popularity in the digital nomad community for years, thanks to the one-year visa and low nomad tax rates. Still, you’ll find the real community magic of the nation amongst the highest peaks.

Dormant Mount Kazbek, climbing to an elevation of 5,055 metres, is a real sight to behold. The surrounding area around Stepantsminda – a starting-point town – is one of the most popular year-round destinations thanks to its position on the principal Georgia to Russia highway keeping this range (usually) accessible.

Monasteries sit above the clouds, friendly dogs will volunteer to be your trekking ‘guides’, and hospitable homestays will start as a place to crash, before quickly becoming a home with new Chacha (home-brewed brandy) plying friends. The food, from twisted-dough Khinkali dumplings to the cheese-stuffed Khachapuri bread, is the pièce de résistance.

Plan your trip: Outstanding year-round, the snowy peaks can make road access in winter an occasional challenge. Kutaisi airport usually provides more affordable flight connections than Tbilisi. Either come for a couple of days or a more extended hiking escape.

Top tip: Public buses are cheap and relatively frequent from Tbilisi, while group day tours provide an easy, and still affordable, option.

8. The Hague, The Netherlands

One of the best places to visit in Europe for politics and history, beach bars and brews, and plenty of learning

The Hague is one of my favourite underrated European city breaks, and it’s fair to say I was shocked by how cool it is.

For many, Amsterdam is the one-stop go-to in The Netherlands, leaving much of the nation’s other destinations as Europe hidden gem. While that might not be the case here – the city’s world-famous for its international courts – it makes for a great weekend without the often unbearable crowds of the capital.

I was impressed with the fantastic food and bar scene, especially for vegetarians . Then there are the in-depth and fascinating museums such as the refugee-focused Humanity House (currently closed) and the Mauritshuis, home to Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. Along the golden sand beach, there are plenty of chic beach clubs, and of course, the critical work the city does internationally for Peace and Justice .

It might not have as many canals or the coffee shops of Amsterdam, but it makes up for it with the laid-back vibes, friendly locals, and culture to gorge on. Seriously, if you are looking for a new European city break in 2023, you can’t go wrong with The Hague.

9. Berat, Albania

One of the best Europe hidden gems for an enchanting village escape after the beaches

Berat – Albania’s cutest village – is often called the ‘City of a Thousand Windows’. On arrival, it’s obvious why, as you gawk at the whitewashed Ottoman houses hugging the side of the fortress-crowned hill.

Atop it all is Berat Castle, with its more than 2500 years of history. Much of what you see today dates from the 13th century, though Byzantine churches are still visible. We arrived here intending to spend one night in the castle walls, but quickly extended our stay to enjoy two days in Berat .

Albania, in general, has recently gone from a lesser-visited hidden gem in Europe, to an in-the-know paradisiacal beach escape. Still, the country’s interior has plenty more to offer, including Gjirokaster, Lake Komani and Bogovë Nature Park – especially the secluded waterfall.

If you don’t have The Balkans on your radar, take a virtual tour of Muslim Europe in the delightful book Minarets in the Mountains . Written by my fellow LP-writer Tharik Hussain, it provides a look at the Muslim history of Europe that’s often not spoken about.

10. The Asitz Mountain, Austria

One of the most unique places to visit in Europe for a sustainable summer hike of culture, art and escapism

One of my most recent Europe hidden gem finds is the region of Saalfelden Leogang , set in the Austrian Alps. While many would think of this corner of the world as the ideal winter ski destination, I visited at the start of summer and boy, am I glad I did.

The two towns that make up this region are adorable. Saalfelden is more urban, Leogang is more rural, and the entire valley is absolutely stunning. However, the main reason to venture to this part of Austria is for an unforgettable mountain experience atop the lofty peaks of the Asitz Mountain .

Reaching 655 metres at its highest, this beautiful winter ski destination is also renowned for exhilarating and intense mountain biking routes. Locally known as ‘the mountain of senses’, there is much more to this part of the jagged range than just extreme sports.

Something of a secret European destination still, culture lovers will be well rewarded after riding the gondola to the top. Summer sees art and sculpture trails through the forest for the eyes, water features for paddling, herb gardens for the senses, a ‘nature cinema’, and most magically, outdoor concerts performed against an incredible mountain lake backdrop.

You’ll also find cultured wooden huts – TONspurs – on the mountain. Inside, you can lay back and enjoy the panorama while listening to previous concerts playing through the headrest. Honestly, it’s one of my new favourite European destinations.

11. Porto Santo Island, Portugal

One of the hidden gems in Europe for lazy beach days and winter sun

Madeira, one of my favourite islands, is another Portuguese destination enjoying its moment in the spotlight. But the largest isle, renowned for its epic hikes and volcanic coastline, isn’t the only option in the archipelago.

A three-hour ferry away is Porto Santo, the ‘baby-sister’ if you will. Here, it’s a whole other vibe and picture, and the country’s newest biosphere reserve remains one the best off the beaten path Europe beach escapes.

Lauding a nine-kilometre stretch of golden sands – hard to find on the main island where darker shores prevail– this is a perfect place to bury yourself in a book and top-up the tan. For some soft adventure, the rolling hills backing the island make for easy hiking routes.

With a mixture of accommodation options, ranging from upscale resorts to down-to-earth home rentals, Porto Santo is all about easy days relaxing, rounded off with fresh-seafood and spectacular sunsets. Honestly, it’s more of a beach with an island than an island with a beach.

12. Castelmezzano, Italy

One of the most unique places to visit in Europe for that dream mountain village getaway

Perched against the backdrop of the Dolomiti Lucane, Castelmezzano is one of Italy’s most beautiful small villages.

We stumbled upon it after a last-minute detour decision during a southern Italy road trip , and my heart leapt the second the cluster of ochre roofs came into view. Set in the lesser-visited European region of Basilicata, head here for a countryside bolthole.

On the opposite mountain, you’ll find Castelmezzano’s ‘twin’ – Pietrapertosa. Linking them both is The Angel’s Flight – a high-speed zip wire that whisks you between these two beguiling peak-snuggled villages.

While the town is mesmerising – especially when viewed from a distance to admire its unique location – the surrounding area is full of epic hikes, forests and a national park. The age-old charm of an overnight stay in Castelmezzaono’s 10th century settlement makes it a firm Europe hidden gem favourite.

13. Durham, England

One of the best places to visit in Europe for the quintessential British experience

If you are looking for a slice of English city-life with countryside charm, head to Durham.

Most famed for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed castle and cathedral – the oldest being from the 9th century – you’ll want to allow at least a half-day to tour both. There’s also a large university here, meaning plenty of good bars and decent restaurants – including ample vegetarian options.

Outside the city, you can ramble along the Durham Heritage Coast, a European hidden gem for its sea glass-strewn beach . Raby Castle – a privately owned medieval gem which has starred in Downton Abbey – can also be toured.

Lastly, be sure to visit Beamish Museum , a living museum. I spent a full day here solo; it was that impressive! With an interactive museum-meets-theme-park vibe, you’ll discover the history of England from the 1800s onwards.

From fully staffed old-school sweet shops and dress-up photography studios to vintage trams and buses driving around, the experience is very much ‘lived history’ history. There are even actors in the ‘homes’ and ‘schools’.

14. Erfurt and Thuringia, Germany

One of the most undiscovered cities in Europe for quaint corners, classical culture, library lovers and adapted accessibility

Historic, charming and relatively compact, Erfurt is the capital of the Germany’s lesser-visited State of Thuringia.

The city dates back to around 700 AD and slowly became an important trading destination in the Middle Ages. Thanks to the Old Town surviving WWII, you can still experience it very much as it once was.

Home to Germany’s oldest university, it’s a classic city with a youthful vibe. In the summer months when I visited, the beer gardens were overflowing, walks along the river were divine, and an energy floated through the warm evening air that I hadn’t felt in other German cities.

The main attractions are the hulking Gothic cathedral and the Petersberg Fortress. Krämerbrücke – a unique arched bridge with a central cobbled street and boutique stores – also deserves a special mention.

You can easily visit more of Europe’s hidden gems nearby, using Erfurt as a base. Weimar is especially worth the journey for the Renaissance-style Anna Amalia Library .

15. Bansko & Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

One of the best places to visit in Europe for excellent value skiing by winter and summer hiking

Bansko was meant to be my first skiing trip. Shortly after arrival, I discovered that I was terrible at the winter sport, and quickly resigned myself to being an avid après-skier instead.

Thankfully, a ski trip in Bansko doesn’t break the bank, making it one of the best choices for first-timers who don’t want to commit to expensive options in the Alps – or pros who seek a more off the beaten path Europe experience.

For example, my chalet room, including dinners, breakfasts, transfers and drinks with Snomads , was around £300 for the week. Lessons and lift passes are also decently priced. Then – away from the slope’s inflated yet not too steep prices – the €1.55 G&Ts went down rather well too.

Before the pistes, which begin a 30-minute Gondola ride from the resort town, you’ll find all you need in Bansko Old Town. Some streets are lined with heritage buildings, while house museums and a small but stunning Orthodox church provide the culture.

If you visit outside the ski season, you’ll still be able to enjoy the old town and head into the Pirin National Park for some much more verdant hiking to lakes.

16. The Frosinone Valley, Italy

One of the best non touristy places to visit for a Rome side trip of verdant walks, offbeat villages, and vineyard vistas

Around halfway between Rome and Naples, the idyllic Province of Frosinone is situated in the southern part of the Lazio region.

Perhaps the most famous attraction here is the Abbey of Montecassino , a vast complex atop the hill in Cassino, which, following its destruction in World War Two, has subsequently been rebuilt.

However, I spent most of my time around the Valle di Comino. Some of Europe’s fiercest battles have taken place in these forested heartlands, but it’s now a serene setting of olive groves, mountains, and beautiful small villages.

If you’re seeking that dreamy and verdant Italy-from-the-movies feel, Frosinone will oblige. Sip delicious award-winning Cabernet in the vineyards of Atina. Discover Arpino – the ‘city of Cicero’ – and explore the ancient L’Acropoli di Civitavecchia. Then head to pretty-as-a-postcard San Donato Val di Comino for mountain-backed village views and overflowing tables in an agriturismo s’ (rural farm accommodation) farm-to-fork restaurant.

Over looking Gaeta and the sea, one of the most beautiful villages near Rome

17. Nisyros Island, Greece

One of the best hidden gems in Europe for a whitewashed village escape on an Aegean-enveloped active volcano

The volcanic island of Nisyros was one of my most accidental discoveries. In fact, I didn’t even know I was going to Greece until I got invited there on a second date. Sadly, the romance never blossomed, but I did replace it with a new lover: this European hidden gem in the Aegean Sea.

While the whole place is rather unique – it’s one hulking volcano – it is hugged by idyllic whitewashed villages serving up typical Greek traits. Tavernas dish out the staples, white and blue set the scene, and bright bougainvillaea adds a splash of colour.

But, what makes this hidden gem of Europe particularly impressive is Stefanos – one of the world’s largest hydrothermal craters. It’s not the only one, either; there are a handful of them on the island. Walking into the caldera, and standing on the space-like floor, is something of a surreal – and sulphur-filled – bucket list experience.

If you stay a while, you can explore the island’s coastal villages and lounge on the dark sand and pebble beaches. Nisyros is a solid pick for that laid-back Greek lifestyle without the overwhelming crowds of, say, Santorini.

18. Monsanto and Central Portugal’s Schist Villages

One of the most quirky places in europe for mind-boggling boulders, creative retreats, and near-empty trails

In Portugal’s parched interior, Monsanto is a pretty village lauding some unusual features. Boulders call all the shots here, making it a rather unique hidden gem of Europe.

Perched atop a volcanic massif with far-reaching views to the Spanish borders, the hamlet is littered with giant rocks. Not to be deterred from making it their home, previous residents have constructed houses alongside, between and even underneath precarious looking boulders.

Monsanto isn’t a place you come to do much, and that is very much the charm. There are excellent panoramas, the remains of the fortified castle, and a timeless air that sadly is getting lost in Portugal’s ever-growing tourism scene. Side trips include admiring ancient fossils in Penha Garcia, and visiting the remains of a Roman settlement in Idanaha-A-Velha.

Closer to Coimbra, you’ll find more Schist Villages in the Serra da Lousã. Cerdeira , which has been lovingly restored, now provides a bolthole for creativity, with some of hidden Europe’s most tucked-away workshops and retreats.

Populaer tourist sights like Obidos were basically empty when I visited in June

19. Annecy, France

One of the best places to visit in Europe for a pretty-as-a-postcard lakeside getaway

Annecy, in southeastern France, was my last ‘Europe off the beaten path’ visit of 2022. On a gloriously sunny day, the Christmas markets I came for felt slightly out of place, but the charm of this small alpine town shined as brightly as the rays from above.

Walking the excellently preserved medieval centre – the Vieille Ville – you’ll cross canals flanked by pastel-coloured facades. On an island in the largest channel, Le Palais de I’Île, a small castle, hosts a mini museum and provides a prominent photo point. Château d’Annecy – a historical monument and castle – sits higher still and serves as a more impressive museum.

But, I found the real joy in simply ambling – both along the canals and cobbled streets and the lakeside Jardins de l’Europe. The town sits on the edge of Lake Annecy, one of the country’s cleanest, lending itself to waterside strolls. Beyond, the nearby mountain trails help you go off the beaten path in the Haute-Savoie surrounds.

20. Sutherland and Moray, Scotland

One of the best places to visit in Europe for castle touring, coastal walking and clan learning

Without heading to Scotland’s far-flung isles, it’s getting harder to find ‘hidden gems’ in the ever-popular nation. The mountainous country rich in lochs , legends, myths and munros is one of the most scenic escapes in Europe, and unfathomable crowds descend on the likes of Skye and Edinburgh Festivals in peak summer.

Sutherland and Moray are two parts of Scotland I love, and you can base yourself bang in the middle in Inverness if you want to explore by public transport. While Inverness isn’t as grand as Edinburgh , the cathedral and castle make for a stately setting to call home.

In Sutherland, the show’s star is Dunrobin Castle, a grand – if relatively modern – turreted delight, set amongst perfectly manicured gardens. Moray brings the older sights, with the impressive ruins of Elgin Cathedral dating back to 1224.

Along this stretch of coast, you’ll find quaint villages and killer views, and hopefully, avoid the crowds heading to the West Highlands and famous valleys such as Glencoe. That said, the NC500 coastal route has become very popular in recent years, so it might be best to skip the high season.

21. Lake of the Four Cantons, Switzerland

One of the best places to visit in Europe for spectacular backdrops with border-defining history

Switzerland’s lakes, mountains, timepieces, chocolates and banks have long appealed to those with the budget to travel the country. While it’s certainly not a cheap destination, free activities in the great outdoors can make it more palatable for your purse.

Lake Lucerne, or the Lake of the Four Cantons, is one of the country’s prettiest bodies of water. On the edge of the lake, you’ll find some Europe hidden gems such as Tellskapelle, the chapel honouring William Tell , Switzerland’s national hero.

While Tell himself is most likely mythical, the nearby towns provide genuine and important history for this famously neutral nation. In the cantons of Uri and Schwyz, the country established its independence – and two museums share the stories of those crucial days.

Hiking trails along the water’s edge link some smaller towns together. Beyond the settlements, the backdrop of soaring mountains – with their elevations often reachable by cable car – captivate.

Round off your visit in the larger city of Lucerne, where medieval architecture makes the Altstadt (Old Town) a pretty setting. Highlights include the Kapellbrücke – a 12th-century wooden bridge decorated with a series of triangular paintings – and the ‘saddest Lion statue’ in the world, a memorial monument dedicated to the Swiss Guards who died in the French Revolution.

Plan your trip: Spring through autumn is an excellent time to visit – I found October great. Plan a couple of days for village-hopping and at least one day in Lucerne. The public ferry pass could be good value if you want to see a few stops around the lake.

Top tip: Private boat tours allow for short sightseeing trips or more indulgent luxury lunch cruises .

Christmas lights and a church in Seiffen ore Mountains

22. The Ore Mountains, Saxony

One of the best places to visit in Europe for Christmas traditions, mountain fare, and festive markets

Look no further than the Ore Mountains for one of the best winter hidden gems in Europe . Located in the eastern state of Saxony, close to the Czech border, a winter wonderland renowned for its festive traditions awaits.

The village of Seiffen is the place to start after you’ve ticked-off the best things to do in Dresden . Here, carpenters, toy-makers, candle crafters, Moravian Star-stitchers and Angel-artists work year-round, creating something of a real-life Santa’s grotto. But, when winter – and the inevitable snow – rolls around, it’s at its finest.

Long standing seasonal traditions are very much alive, and mainly come courtesy of the surrounding ex-mining towns. Don a hard hat and heat into a decommissioned underground quarry for a candle-lit carol concert. Settle in at the table for a typical miners’ feast using age-old recipes. Then, get your fill of Glühwein and handicrafts at one of the region’s countless markets with marching band parades. Even just in Dresden, the region’s Baroque-heavy capital, you’ll find eleven themed markets, and Leipzig’s market is equally as storied, dating back to 1458.

The Ore Mountains are one of the most unique places to visit in Europe, and make for a great alternative to the continent’s most famous festive destinations.

Read more: Christmas traditions in Saxony

Plan your trip: This is a land best experienced in the lead-up to Christmas. Plan to stay a night or two as part of a longer Christmas Market road trip so you can visit more of the best places to visit in Saxony, Germany – public transport is more limited around the mountains.

Top tip: If you want to attend some special events – such as parades or miners’ concerts – check for updates on this local website .

23. Kutna Hora, Czech Republic

One of the best places to visit in Europe for a bone-chilling gothic city trip

Whilst Prague may be one of the hottest must-visit cities in Europe, and South Bohemia famous for its castles , the historic and impressive Bohemia city of Kutna Hora is still a relatively under-the-radar gem.

Discover the cobbled streets and grand Gothic architecture – especially the brawny cathedral – and then pay a respectful visit to the unique ‘Bone Church’, which is, as you might have guessed, adorned with bones.

Sedlec Ossuary shares its nearly 1000 years of history with a no-holding-back approach. Some 40,000 human skeletons form the walls, ceilings and even chandeliers. It’s quite the macabre sight.

The imposing cathedral of St Barbaras with gothic archiecture

+ For the future: Kyiv, Ukraine

St Michael's Cathedral in Kyiv, a blue cathedral with gold dome

Comments are closed.

Hey, I’m Dan…

Email Address *

Travel + Leisure Readers' 15 Favorite Cities in Europe of 2023

T+L readers chose European cities known for food, architecture, and a good deal in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

Did you know that, at midnight on New Year’s Eve, they waltz in Vienna (which snuck onto this year’s list at No. 15)? And that you can actually road trip from San Sebastián, Spain (No. 8) to Bordeaux, France (No. 14)? How about this one: did you know that you can cross a bridge in Ljubljana, Slovenia (No. 9) that's guarded by four green dragons? Here’s the point: Europe is full of magic, full of mystery, and full of surprises.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below:

Sights/landmarks
Friendliness

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Spain had a fantastic year on this list. Four Spanish cities were named the best in Europe by T+L readers, trouncing Italy, Portugal, and Austria, each of which had two winners. From Seville (No. 6) to Madrid (No. 13), the Spanish cities mesmerized readers. We don’t often see so many precious-stone analogies among reader responses. One voter called San Sebastián a “jewel,” another called Seville a “gem.”

It’s telling that the two Italian destinations both landed in the top five, with No. 2 Florence and No. 3 Rome. Rome is set to have a wild year, with a deluge of hotel openings, including a new Six Senses, Bulgari, InterContinental, and Edition, among others. Both cities made the list last year, but Florence gave up its No. 1 spot to last year’s runner-up: Istanbul.

Read on to learn why Istanbul topped the podium this year and for more on the 15 best cities in Europe, according to T+L readers.

1. Istanbul, Turkey

Kerem Uzel/Travel + Leisure

Even as Turkey weathers a challenging year, T+L readers still put Istanbul at the very top of the list. One reader said it’s a “beautiful city with so much to offer,” while another loved that it’s a city “that’s good for all budgets.” Among readers, favorite sites include the Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet Square — where the Four Seasons claimed the title of Best Hotel in the World this year — and, of course, the Bosphorous, Turkey's scenic strait bisecting Istanbul and connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

Reader Score: 90.23

Beautiful city with so much to offer.

Suttipong Sutiratanachai/Getty Images

2. Florence, Italy

Ah, Firenze . “My favorite city in Italy, and maybe the world,” said one voter, who added that there’s really no wrong time to go. “World-class art, food, and culture in the heart of Tuscany.” Of course, the Uffizi Gallery is a must, and another reader added, “you can't miss Galleria Accademia and seeing David.” They also called Florence a “perfect romantic destination!”

Reader Score: 89.48

Camilla Glorioso/Travel + Leisure

3. Rome, Italy

Rome wasn’t going to let Florence get away with being the only Italian city in the top five. One reader said the city’s “history, culture, and food” are what make “life worth living.” Sightseeing recommendations from readers include the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Forum, Vatican City, Trastevere, and Villa Borghese.

Reader Score: 88.91

4. Lisbon, Portugal

“Lisbon is a hidden gem,” one T+L reader said. “Beautiful city. Fantastic shopping. Delicious food. Very friendly people.” That about sums up our readers’ responses — they love the history, architecture, food, affordability, and the “beautiful beaches within a 30-minute drive.” Our readers specifically recommended riding the clean metro and city trams, and taking a “free walking tour of the Chiado area.”

Reader Score: 88.62

Wayfarerlife Photography/Getty Images

5. Porto, Portugal Looking to knock off two World’s Best European cities in one go? One reader drove from Lisbon to Porto and said, “the road trip itself was a delight; stopping in all the little towns in between was an amazing experience.” That same reader said they were mesmerized by “the food, the port tours, and the views of the Douro River.”

Reader Score: 88.09

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

6. Seville, Spain

Our readers rave about Seville because it's a relatively small city that’s exceptionally easy to get around. Many say you don’t need a car; one reader said “their trains and buses are great and reasonable.” The same person added “people are very nice, restaurants are to die for,” while another fan called Seville “the gem of Andalusia.”

Reader Score: 87.83

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

7. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Slovenia’s capital, once under Habsburg rule, is a consistent favorite among T+L readers, ranking in the top 10 for the last two years.

Reader Score: 87.82

Xantana/Getty Images

8. San Sebastián, Spain Why let Seville have all the glory? This city on the Bay of Biscay, so close to the French border it’s within driving distance from Bordeaux (No. 14), entrances readers. As one says, “San Sebastián is one of my favorite cities in the world. It is beautiful with something for everyone; medieval city, beaches, the best restaurants in the world, culture, wine bars, sites, and nearby excursions. It's wonderful.”

Reader Score: 87.79

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

9. Prague, Czech Republic

The breathtaking beauty of Prague makes it a favorite among T+L readers. “The architecture was phenomenal,” one WBA voter said. “The food was yummy, the city was easy to navigate, the people were friendly, and the place was very clean and well-maintained. Can't wait for a return visit.”

10. Barcelona, Spain

T+L readers love Barcelona for Antoni Gaudí’s Park Güell and Sagrada Familia, the al fresco restaurants lining Las Ramblas, and, of course, as a jumping off point to other smaller — but no less idyllic — Spanish cities, including those in the nearby Spanish wine region of Penedés. Reader Score: 87.66

Marie-Louise Titze/Getty Images

11. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg ranked higher than Vienna (No. 15) this year. The fourth-largest city in Austria is a marriage of old and new; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but this year it will get a brand-new Rosewood hotel.

Reader Score: 87.53

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Lesiure

12. Edinburgh, Scotland

Come for the history, stay for the idyllic Gleneagles Townhouse hotel, an It List winner this year. T+L readers say there is always more to explore in Edinburgh, whether this is your second visit or your 22nd. “The highlight was probably the ‘Original Rosslyn Inn,’” one reader said. “A quaint bed-and-breakfast with a great restaurant; the staff were very helpful in guiding us around the small village and to the Rosslyn Chapel.”

Reader Score: 87.32

13. Madrid, Spain

The fourth Spanish city to make the list of best European cities, Madrid is the land of bocadillo de calamares , the Baroque arcades of Plaza Mayor, and dark El Greco paintings at the Prado Museum. It came in at No. 13, losing out to Edinburgh by just .04 points.

Reader Score: 87.28

MarioGuti/Getty Images

14. Bordeaux, France Last year, Strasbourg was the only French city among readers' favorites in Europe. This year, the namesake hub of the Bordeaux wine region swooped in to nab the penultimate spot on the list. It is worth noting that one T+L reader succinctly commented, “Wine!” — which about sums it up. Other readers touted the charming waterfront, “classic architecture,” and “beautiful main square.” But the best compliment of all? “Very French,” one reader raved. “English not spoken by many.” That’s how you know you picked the right city.

Reader Score: 86.96

15. Vienna, Austria Named the world’s most liveable city this year by the Economist Intelligence Unit, Vienna is where Gothic architecture meets postmodern design. The city’s cup runneth over with charming bars serving Austrian natural wines, exceptional art museums (see: the new Albertina Modern), and a “great transportation system makes it easy to get around,” according to one T+L reader.

Reader Score: 86.74

Travel. Love. Europe. Us

23 destinations to visit in europe in 2023.

After a dreadful 2020 and a rather uncertain 2021, 2022 offered a glimmer of hope when it came to traveling, particularly within Europe. Thankfully, even flying in from other continents has started to be easier.

As 2022 ends, there aren’t any restrictions to speak of in Europe’s top destinations. The entry regulations have been gradually lifted on the continent since late spring.

Unfortunately, another problem has been affecting our travel budgets: inflation. Thankfully, however, affordable airfare and accommodation are still plentiful and, if you also manage to catch some travel deals, you’ll likely keep the costs manageable.

But where should you head to in 2023? From big, bustling cities to quaint little villages, incredible natural wonders, and plenty of historical sites, Europe has something to offer for every traveler and budget. To make your life easier, we’ve reached out to fellow travel bloggers and asked for their recommendations again. Read on to find out the top destinations in Europe to visit in 2023 .

But, before we do that, let’s look at back our picks from the previous years:

16 European Destinations for 2016
17 European Destinations for 2017
18 European Destinations to Visit in 2018
19 European Destinations to Visit in 2019
20 European Destinations to Visit in 2020
21 European Destinations to Visit in 2021
22 Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2022

Top Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023

Ohrid, North Macedonia
Ugljan Island, Croatia
Crete, Greece
Soča Valley – Slovenia
Killarney National Park, Ireland
Monsanto, Portugal
Ischia Island, Italy
Warsaw, Poland
Minster Lovell, England
Sarandë, Albania
Amalfi, Italy
Quedlinburg, Germany
Gdańsk, Poland
Málaga, Spain
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
Athens, Greece
London, England
Porto, Portugal
Valencia, Spain
Stockholm, Sweden
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Bergen, Norway
Lugano, Switzerland
Berlin, Germany
Douro Valley, Portugal
Sibiu, Romania

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Ohrid, North Macedonia

Ohrid is a small town on the shores of Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia. This charming settlement has a history dating back thousands of years and is evident everywhere you go. From the Hellenistic (pre-Roman) amphitheater to the many churches, mosques, monasteries, and a large fortress overlooking the lake, the town is packed with interesting architecture and archaeology. There is so much to see and do in Ohrid from lakeside and mountain hikes to boat trips, exploring the old town, and feasting on the local cuisine. Macedonia is famous for its wines too, so be sure to try out local tipples like Vranec.

Highlights include the stunning St. John the Theologian Church at Kaneo which overlooks the lake with the mist-covered mountains of Albania in the distance. Kaneo also has a couple of great (though small) beaches and some top restaurants and beach bars. Samuil’s Fortress dominates the town’s skyline and offers stunning views across the rooftops of the old town and out over the lake.

As Ohrid is a small town it’s easy to get around on foot, and there are plenty of boats willing to take you further afield for a reasonable price (most half-day boat trips are around €25.00). There are also buses to nearby attractions like the Bay of Bones and St. Naum Monastery.

Ohrid is also an excellent choice for those working as freelance writers or digital nomads (like myself). Most people speak English, there is fast, free WIFI in all the cafes and restaurants, and some great accommodation options that cost a fraction of similar tourist towns in the more popular parts of Europe.

Contributed by Steve Rohan of The Trip Goes On

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Ugljan Island, Croatia

>> book your accommodation in Kukljica

Ugljan Island is definitely one of the most idyllic places to visit in Croatia, and on top of that, a real insider’s tip if you are looking for a great European Destination to visit in 2023!

It is located opposite the famous coastal city of Zadar and is still an authentic place far away from mass tourism. The special thing here is the unspoiled nature, the romantic fishing villages, and the secluded beaches that invite you to swim. One of the most stunning things to see is the picturesque village of Preko, where a beautiful Dalmatian old town invites you to linger. Directly opposite, is the monastery island of Galovac, one of the most important attractions of Ugljan.

Another highlight of Ugljan Island is the 6th-century fortress of St. Michael, majestically towering on a mountain above the island, from where visitors can enjoy the most spectacular sunsets.

A romantic and perfect place to stay in Ugljan is the beautiful port town of Kukljica. With its colorful houses, it is truly picturesque and, thanks to the many good restaurants, a perfect place for an unforgettable dinner. Especially recommended is Konoba Udica, which serves delicious Croatian grilled dishes!

Contributed by Martina of PlacesofJuma

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Crete, Greece

Greece is a country with a long and rich history, and Crete is not only the largest Greek island but also one of its most beautiful and vibrant islands. From the stunning views of the White Mountains to the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean, there is much to see and do here.

Crete is one of the best places to dig into delicious Greek food. The island is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. Whether you want to try traditional dishes like moussaka or enjoy fresh seafood by the beach, you’ll be able to find something to your taste.

From its ancient ruins in Minoan sites like Knossos to its Venetian architecture, Crete is a place with a wealth of culture and history. There are plenty of museums and galleries to explore, as well as numerous churches and monasteries. One of the largest cities in Crete is Chania, and in its Old Town, you can see centuries of history on one self-guided walking tour.

With over 1,000 kilometers of coastline, Crete has no shortage of beaches to relax on, and choosing among the best beaches in Crete can be quite challenging. But no matter if you’re looking for a quiet spot to sunbathe or a lively beach with bars and restaurants, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.

Crete is an island that has something for everyone, making it one of the best travel destinations in Europe in 2023.

Contributed by Une of Wandernity

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Soča Valley – Slovenia

Slovenia is a country that has attracted plenty of notoriety in recent years, thanks largely in part to its outstanding natural beauty and stunning scenery. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Soča Valley region which boasts imposing mountain peaks and impressive gorges and ravines.

As one of Europe’s best destinations for 2023, the Soča Valley region is a paradise for those looking to discover true European paradise. The area’s focal point is the Soča river which effortlessly snakes through the mountains and is a haven for white-water kayakers and hikers.

One of the highlights of the region is visiting Tolmin Gorge , an impressive 60m deep gorge found on the Southern edge of Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps.

As you may have guessed by now, the Soča Valley region is a perfect destination for those who love to explore the outdoors in Europe. It’s even common to see scores of hundreds of paragliders dotted throughout the skies above the valley. The two small towns of Kobarid and Bovec are the most popular places to base yourself during a visit to the Soča Valley. Bovec is home to the biggest zipline park in Europe while Kobarid has a number of quaint boutique hotels and hostels to stay in.

Whether it’s hiking or kayaking, ziplining or paragliding, the Soča Valley is one of Europe’s best destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies.

Contributed by Ben Lloyd of Ticket 4 Two Please

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Killarney National Park, Ireland

killarney-national-park-ireland-travel-around-ireland

A great place to put on your radar for 2023 is Killarney National Park in Ireland. Situated in the southwest of the country in County Kerry, the park was the first place in Ireland to be designated as a National Park and when you visit, it is easy to see why.

Killarney National Park lies 312km or 4 hours southwest of the Irish capital of Dublin. Spread across more than 10,000 hectares, Killarney National Park is teaming with flora, fauna, and plenty of things to do.

The park attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year who come to hike, explore, or take a road trip around it. It is contained within one of Ireland’s most popular road trip roads, the Ring of Kerry. This 177km circular route encases the park, making it easy to combine both during your trip.

Killarney Town is one of the best places to base yourself for exploring the park, as the park is accessible from the town by car, bus, bike, on foot, or even jaunting car. Things to do within the park include hiking, cycling, exploring sites such as Muckross House, visiting the Torc Waterfall, and enjoying the beauty of the Gap of Dunloe. The park is home to three lakes and one way to enjoy them is to take a ride through the Gap of Dunloe to the top and then enjoy a boat ride back through the lakes and connecting streams.

Whatever way you choose to enjoy the Killarney National Park, you will be wowed by stunning landscapes and amazing views from the mountains and across the lakes within.

Contributed by Cath of Travel Around Ireland

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Monsanto, Portugal

High in the Portuguese hills is a small medieval village where houses are built on and against gigantic boulders and winding paths that lead to the hilltop fortresses. Monsanto is also called the ‘most Portuguese village in Portugal’. It received this title for preserving its special medieval character and culture. A visit to Monsanto is a step back in time.

There are some great things to do in Monsanto such as beautiful houses built between gigantic boulders! Monsanto’s position, close to the Spanish border, and high above the valley, once made it a good strategic defense post. The medieval village and scenic views attract visitors from all over Portugal. Half a day, or rather a whole day, is perfect to explore the winding alleys and be amazed by the strange but cute rock houses. There is a 4.5 km hiking trail around Monsanto that leads you high up the hill. This will give you amazing views over the valley. The castle of Monsanto is located at the highest point of the village. The walk is steep but short and well worth the great views, as are the ancient walls of the castle and the ruins of the Roman chapel. This is an absolute must-see in Monsanto, Portugal.

Monsanto’s remote location means it’s a rather unusual stop on a Portugal itinerary though. But this detour is worth it! It’s recommended to travel by car or camper. You can get there by public transport, but the options are very limited, and a car is a much better option. It is a 3-hour drive from Lisbon or 4 hours from Porto to get to Monsanto. If you want the chance to see the village at both sunset and sunrise, it is worth staying overnight here. A great place to stay here is at Casa do Castello Monsanto. This B&B is located in the middle of the village, has only a few rooms, and is built and furnished in a traditional style.

Contributed by Alexander of Travel Your Memories

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Ischia Island, Italy

Located off the coast of Naples, Italy, in the Tyrrhenian Sea is the Mediterranean island of Ischia – one of the places that should definitely be on your list to visit in Europe in 2023. It’s located near the better-known island of Capri and is part of the volcanic Phlegraean chain of islands in the Campania region of southern Italy. Ischia is an easy, hour-long ferry from Naples, so visitors can come for a day trip or stay a while.

Visiting Ischia feels like taking a step off from the well-worn tourist track of Italian destinations and into a more local, timeless version of Italy. Everywhere you go, you’re likely to be greeted in Italian, and the menus, where the prices are quite a bit lower than in nearby Capri, feature classic and local fare. Clothes can be seen draped over clotheslines, drying in the warm Italian sun, and cars from bygone eras are parked elegantly in front of lightly crumbling stone walls. There’s a touch of old-school romance just about everywhere you look.

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Ischia , but the highlights include visiting the 5th century B.C. Aragonese castle-fortress of Ischia. It takes a few hours to explore the castle, and you can even sip an Aperol spritz from one of the terraces that overlook the island. Afterward, you can join the locals and tourists alike who are sunbathing and swimming along the rocks near the entrance to the castle. Before you leave Ischia, don’t skip grabbing a gelato from Pasticceria Trani, where you can find an assortment of classic and local flavors.

Contributed by Amber of Amber Everywhere

>>Also read about Naples, Italy

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Warsaw, Poland

Poland’s capital city of Warsaw is often overshadowed by its more well-known European counterparts. However, this beautiful city belongs near the top of your Poland bucket list as it has a lot to offer, from its rich and sometimes tragic history to its vibrant culture, with the added bonus of being incredibly affordable compared to other major European cities.

Right in the city center, you can find Warsaw’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town has been meticulously reconstructed after being almost entirely destroyed during WWII, and it is now a beautiful example of traditional Polish architecture. Strolling through the cobbled streets and visiting the landmarks like the Royal Castle, the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Palace of Culture and Science mean there is no shortage of things to do.

There are many beautiful parks to enjoy the outdoors, with manicured gardens and open spaces, including Łazienki Królewskie Park, the largest park in Warsaw. In winter it is breathtaking to see the palace sitting alongside the frozen lake. Although it is equally lovely to visit in the warmer seasons where you will see peacocks roaming the grounds and squirrels running up the trees. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene and some of the best restaurants in Poland.

Contributed by Holly Connors of Four Around the World

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Minster Lovell, England

One of the most quaint and beautiful villages in the Cotswolds has to be Minster Lovell in West Oxfordshire. This hidden gem is rarely visited by tourists but there are some beautiful places to explore, especially the ruins of Minster Lovell Hall and the Dovecote.

Set on the picturesque River Windrush, the manor house was built in the 15th century by one of the richest men in England at the time (Baron of Lovell and Holand). However, in the 18th century, it was demolished. The ruins that are left, are looked after by the English Heritage, so it is possible to explore the area and soak up the history. However, they can be quite hard to find, so make sure to use the entrance by St Kenelm’s Church for the easiest route.

The rest of the village of Minster Lovell is filled with rows of chocolate box houses, a great little pub called The Old Swan, and a stunning spa and hotel called Minster Mill which has some exceptional gardens as well as a traditional afternoon tea from Wednesday to Sunday.

The best time to visit Minster Lovell is in Autumn when the houses and ruins are surrounded by colorful leaves, which really adds to the atmosphere.

Contributed by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Sarandë, Albania

Albania’s been hitting the news quite a lot recently as an upcoming tourist destination, and Sarandë is one of its top locations. Sitting in the far south of the country, not far from the Albania – Greece border and just over the sea from Corfu, this town has a fun seaside atmosphere, plenty of beach clubs, and some great diving opportunities.

The best thing to do here is to hit the beach – this is the Mediterranean, so the sea stays really warm until October. If you want a great vantage point of Sarandë, go up in the big wheel at the end of the beach.

There are plenty of restaurants and bars along the street, and the town comes alive after dark.

Under the sea, you’ll find some epic scuba diving sites, like the SS Probitas ship that sunk in 1944. If you prefer life on land, you can do a day trip to places like Gjirokastër Castle, which has a long history spanning back to the 12th century, or the famous Blue Eye spring. You can either rent a car from Sarandë or organize a day trip with one of the tour operators.

As Sarandë is in South Albania, it’s an excellent European winter sun destination – the winters are short and mild, and the summers are long and hot!

Contributed by Claire of Europe in Winter

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Amalfi, Italy

Amalfi Coast is a perfect destination anytime, so if you haven’t visited yet, 2023 may be your year! This beautiful region in southern Italy is located between Sorento and Salerno. As a base to explore it, you can choose to stay in Amalfi town , which gives its name to the whole region. Book a hotel with an infinity pool in Amalfi town and do day trips around the coast.

Amalfi town will impress you with its white buildings that seem to fall into the sea from the hill. When you first arrive, go to the beach, so you can admire it. Even though it is small, the town has interesting attractions for its guests. A must-do in Amalfi is a visit to the Cathedral. Sant Andrea Cathedral or Il Duomo is the large church overlooking the main square of the city. It is a church dedicated to the apostle Saint Andrew, built in the 9th century. It includes different architectural styles in its structure: Baroque, Romanesque etc because it underwent various changes over time. Climb the stairs in front of it and go inside. Here, you can see a crucifix made of mother-of-pearl and brought from the Holy Land and another one from the 13th century, made of wood.

After the Cathedral, go to the Museo della Carta and discover how the paper was produced centuries ago. After the museum, go and explore the narrow streets and eat in a traditional restaurant. If you visit Amalfi town in summer, spend some time at the beach.

Contributed by Corina of Another Milestone

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Quedlinburg, Germany

If you’re looking for a unique destination to visit in Europe, Quedlinburg, Germany is a great choice. Quedlinburg escaped WWII damage, so what you see is a medieval old town with charming half-timbered buildings. The old town is so well preserved that it is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s located a little over three hours west of Berlin by train, so it’s a wonderful option for a weekend trip from Berlin that will show you what a smaller town in Germany is like. Go for a wander through the Marktplatz (the main market square) and admire the gorgeous Rathaus (city hall) building before exploring the rest of the town.

Schloss Quedlinburg is the town’s castle, and it sits on a hill that provides sweeping views of the town and surrounding area. For more views, there are several towers in town that you can climb, such as the Sternkiekerturm. Fachwerkmuseum in Ständerbau is an old half-timbered house dating back to the early 1300s, making it one of the oldest in Germany. Today it’s a museum where you can learn about this construction style.

Since Quedlinburg sits on the edge of the Harz Mountains, it makes a good base for outdoor activities. You can also ride a historic steam train called the Harzer Schmalspurbahnen into the mountains. It’s one of the most scenic train journeys in Germany. If you’re looking for some traditional German food while you’re staying in Quedlinburg, check out Brauhaus Lüdde, which brews its own beer.

Contributed by Ali of Berlin Travel Tips

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Gdańsk, Poland

>> book your accommodation in Gdańsk

When you’re thinking of traveling to Poland, your first destination might be Kraków or Warsaw. But there is an often-overlooked gem on the Baltic Coast worth visiting: Gdańsk. Once the richest city in Poland, Gdańsk has a carefully restored city center full of colorful buildings, charming little streets, and a beautiful boulevard.

There is so much to do in Gdańsk ! Dive into the local culture with a walking tour of the old town or port. With many interesting museums and a vibrant atmosphere, you won’t be bored!

Visit Gdańsk and discover the rich history of the coastal city, famous for its precious amber. If you take a trip to the beach, you might even be able to find some for yourself. Or visit the Amber Museum and see insects suspended in petrified resin for more than 10 million years! You can shop for amber jewelry at one of the many shops on Mariacka Street. In Gdańsk, history is effortlessly combined with modernity. Beautiful contemporary architecture, such as the WWII Museum and the Granary wharf, perfectly complements the older monuments.

Foodies will be pleased in Gdańsk as well since there are plenty of traditional Polish restaurants where you can try local specialties such as pierogi and fish. Or dine in one of the many modern fusion bistros and sample locally brewed craft beer.

The citizens of Gdańsk are proud of their city, and rightfully so. They’re eager to show it off and welcome travelers with open arms. Gdańsk might be relatively underrated by international tourists, but it is the perfect destination for a city trip in Europe. Gdańsk is beautiful, interesting, friendly, and affordable.

Contributed by Sophie of Just Heading Out

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Málaga, Spain

If you are wondering if Málaga is worth visiting in 2023, the answer is yes. Malaga is a fantastic destination for many reasons – its sunny and warm weather all year round, its historic buildings, its lively atmosphere, and its local cuisine.

One of the best things to do in Málaga is to visit Alcazaba de Málaga, a beautiful Moorish fortress palace home to impressive architecture, picturesque gardens, and panoramic views of the city. Next to Alcazaba, you will also find the Roman theatre and Malaga sign to take a fun photo. Another landmark you might want to check is the Cathedral of Malaga, known as La Manquita because it’s missing a tower. Regarding museums, you are also spoilt for choice. Málaga has over 40 museums for all ages and interests. The most popular museum is Picasso Museum, but you can also find museums about cars, wines, and music.

In addition to these activities, if you love trying the local cuisine, some of the dishes to add to your list are pescaito frito (fried fish), ajoblanco (almond soup), and espeto de sardinas (sardine skewers). Last but not least, Málaga is home to beautiful beaches to enjoy the sun, especially during the summer months. Malagueta Beach is the closest beach to Málaga city center, however, it is worth checking out other incredible beaches in nearby towns like Nerja

Contributed by Cristina of My Little World of Travelling

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

When in Northern Ireland, a must-visit is the Giant’s Causeway, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, and for good reason. Located between Ballintoy and Bushmills in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, the Causeway is not only beautiful but has an epic history. Local legend says that a giant, Finn McCool, built the causeway to reach Scotland in search of a fight with another giant, Benandonner. I won’t ruin the tale for you (you can hear all about it when visiting), but what was left of the “battle” of the two giants are the famous stepping stones. These stones are 40,000 columns (in a hexagon shape) that cover the coast.

It looks like something out of Game of Thrones—a long rocky bridge leading to nowhere, with a few stone columns sticking up from the ground. But as you get closer you realize that these stones are part of a winding mosaic that stretches for miles along the Causeway Coast. In reality, these columns are made up of coarse volcanic rock. The Giant’s Causeway is truly a geological wonder, rugged and otherworldly. In fact, it’s Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entire Causeway Coast is filled with natural beauty and appeal. Other attractions such as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle are nearby as well and worthy of a visit.

The whole area is so beautiful. And it’s perfect for all ages. From the visitors’ center down to the rocky columns along the coast is an easy walk. If you are visiting with people with limited mobility, you can also take a trolley both down to the coast and back up. It runs regularly and costs a couple of pounds, or euros (they take both if you have exact).

Contributed by Kelie of Vacations Planned

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Athens, Greece

Often visited for its rich culture and world-famous historic monuments, such as the Acropolis, Athens is, without a doubt, one of the top European destinations to visit in 2023. Whether you decide to visit Athens in winter to enjoy mild temperatures with sunny days and fewer crowds or in the summer before heading to the gorgeous Greek Islands, the capital of Greece has no shortage of fantastic things to do throughout the year.

The Acropolis of Athens is the city’s ultimate highlight, the very symbol of the ancient Greek civilization. Under the shadow of the Acropolis and as you wander around the quaint alleys of Plaka, the most picturesque neighborhood in Athens, you can visit other archaeological sites and museums, including the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora of Athens, and the Athens University History Museum.

Apart from the rich cultural heritage that Athens has to offer, visiting the neighborhoods of Athens is where you can experience the city’s authentic vibes. Psyrri and Koukaki are only a couple of the city’s authentic neighborhoods where you can find traditional coffee shops and taverns to taste delicious Greek dishes and mingle with locals. Overall, a trip to Athens is a trip that appeals to all types of travelers in a destination to enjoy with all of your senses.

Contributed by Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: London, England

If you want to experience wonderful history, but also enjoy a contemporary metropolis there is no better place to visit in Europe than London. Some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe like the Shard stand proudly in the ancient Roman settlement and offer incredible panoramic views of the city. While on the other side of the river Thames you can relax in the lush greenery of the highest public garden in London – Sky Garden.

London has been selected as the best European destination for many years and 2023 is no exception. The event calendar of London is full of amazing activities and offers incredible attractions for everyone. Visit London in January to join London’s New Year’s Day Parade and watch the fireworks show by the River Thames. The biggest Chinese New Year celebration in Europe also takes place in the city so if you want to experience a bit of Asia, London is one of the best choices.

During a trip to London in summer, you can watch one of the most spectacular street festivals in Europe – Notting Hill Carnival. Moreover, pleasant weather will allow you to explore the beautiful parks that London has in abundance. Regardless of the season of the year, London is one the most vibrant cities in the world that cannot be missed when planning to visit the top European destinations in 2023.

Contributed by Paulina of UK Every Day

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Porto, Portugal

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe to visit in 2023. This city is famous for its association with port wine. From boat trips on the Douro River to discovering hidden architectural gems, there are plenty of places to visit in Porto . Also, the Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rumored to be the inspiration behind the Harry Potter books, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the must-visit attractions in Porto. Designed by Francisco Xavier Esteves in a Neo-Gothic style, the bookstore was opened in the early 20th century.

No visit to Porto is complete without taking a tour of its famous port wine cellars. You will find many of them in Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River. Admire the rows of colorful houses and riverfront views of the vibrant and bustling Ribeira. You can also catch the six bridges river cruise from here. The boat tour is a great way to learn about the importance of the river to the city while passing many of Porto’s famous bridges and prominent landmarks. You will pass under the famous Dom Luis I Bridge designed by Gustav Eiffel. Next, climb the Clerigos Tower for a stunning view over the city skyline. Hop onboard one of Porto’s vintage trams to head down to Matosinhos beach and Foz do Douro promenade for a day out by the beach. Lastly, don’t forget to try the famous Francesinha – a traditional Portuguese dish from the north of Portugal, particularly from the Porto region.

Contributed by Moumita of Chasing the Long Road

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Valencia, Spain

>> book your accommodation in Valencia

Valencia is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. With its extraordinary mix of the historic city center, modern architecture, culture, and, of course, one of the country’s most scenic stretches of beaches, Valencia offers the complete experience for every kind of traveler.

When you’re looking at the beautiful plazas in the center of the city, take advantage of the central market hall. Here you will find many fresh products and the oranges, which are so popular in Valencia, are a must try. After admiring the city’s historic buildings, your Valencia itinerary should also take you to the city of science and art. Here, you almost have the feeling of having landed in another world. In the middle of a futuristic landscape, you will find various buildings where you can experience beautiful works of art, exciting movies, and exciting knowledge. In addition, one of the largest aquariums in Europe is waiting here to be discovered by you.

After exploring the city, you’re probably going to be hungry. No one should leave Valencia without trying an authentic paella. In fact, the dish that is now considered the national dish of Spain was invented right here in Valencia. Therefore, it is said that Valencia still serves the best paella in the country.

Finally, of course, a visit to the beach is on the agenda. Valencia is located directly on the Spanish Mediterranean coast and is famous throughout the country for its beautiful beaches. Whether you prefer to visit the city beach or one of the beaches in the region as a day trip from Valencia . Because the choice is vast, you will undoubtedly find a great option.

Contributed by Vicki of Vicki Viaja

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Stockholm, Sweden

>> book your accommodation in Stockholm

If you’re looking for inspiration for incredibly beautiful European destinations to visit in 2023, then look no further than Stockholm, Sweden! This Nordic city is the capital of Sweden and is known for its gorgeous architecture, vibrant nightlife scene, and stunning natural scenery. Plus, there’s no shortage of fun activities to do and iconic places to see in Stockholm , so you’ll have plenty of options for filling your itinerary!

Visitors to Stockholm can explore the massive and highly popular Vasa Museum. This museum is dedicated to the infamous ship that sank in Stockholm’s harbor during the 17th century. Alternatively, if you prefer to spend your time outdoors, take a stroll through Gamla Stan, the city’s historic old town. The area is home to the Royal Palace, the Royal Cathedral as well as several quaint cafes and shops.

And no trip to Stockholm would be complete without spending some time admiring the city’s natural beauty by walking through the lovely parks on Djurgården island. There, you’ll find lots of manicured gardens along with some other smaller museums, such as the ABBA museum!

Contributed by Kristin Lee of Global Travel Escapades

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is definitely one of the top places to put on your European bucket list in 2023. The city is a great place to visit all year round because there is always a buzz of activity. Come spring and summer, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Netherlands’ famous tulips. That’s not all. The Amsterdam flower market is in full swing and I highly recommend taking a walk through the iconic markets.

In the colder months, there is still a lot that you can do. The Dutch don’t really stop moving around outdoors and to tell you the truth, you will find most of the people cycling to and fro just the same as they did in summer. In these months, you will find that many people head to the museums. There are loads of them and one of my favorites is the Anne Frank museum.

The museums offer a nice warm place to enjoy art, culture, and history. Plus, the dull gray skies fade away in the distance while you enjoy your time indoors.

Another reason why Amsterdam is a great place to head to is because it has an uber large airport with flight routes from all over the world. It is easy to access. It also gives you easy access to most of the Netherlands via the public transport network.

There are loads of great weekend trips that you can take from Amsterdam . From the tulip fields to the windmills, from the canals to the cheese, there are lots that this city has to offer. Mind you, it does get expensive to stay here for long. On the flip side, you can still get a lot done if you stay just for a weekend in Amsterdam, though you should consider staying longer!

Contributed by Penny of GlobeTrove

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Bergen, Norway

>> book your accommodation in Bergen

Bergen has much to offer the visitor at any time of the year. While the city is often described as the gateway to the fjords it is a beautiful and historic city worth exploring for a few days at least.

Located on the southwest coast of Norway Bergen has good rail links to ski resorts, fjords, the scenic Flam railway, and the capital Oslo.

Surrounded by seven mountains and ever-flowing waterfalls, and home to the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bryggen Wharf, Bergen is Norway’s second largest with a population of around 300,000.

Without a doubt, the main attraction is Bryggen Wharf. This is the site of the Hanseatic wharf, an area that was the hub of all trade in the Middle Ages. Its colorful historic wooden buildings are certainly Instagram-worthy! Don’t miss exploring the narrow lanes which are full of quirky cafes and bookshops.

After exploring Bryggen head over to Bergen’s historic fish market. Torget I Bergen has existed since the 1200s and sells all sorts of seafood.

For stunning views over the city take the funicular (Floibanen) to the top of Mount Floyen 320 meters above sea level. Just avoid visiting during the weekend as it is a popular activity for Bergen residents to run up the mountain. Bergen is not a cheap city to visit. As with all the Scandinavian countries food, accommodation and transportation are relatively expensive compared to other European destinations. However, its uniqueness and beauty plus its geographical location near some of Norway’s most beautiful fjords make it a popular destination.

Contributed by Tracy of Tracy’s Travels in Time

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Lugano, Switzerland

One of the best European destinations to visit for your upcoming 2023 European vacation is Lugano, Switzerland. Located North of Milan and South of Zurich, it’s easily reachable with the local trains, or by car if you want to combine the location with a road trip!

Since Lugano is well known for its Lake Lugano, one of the best things to do after exploring and shopping in the city is to get out onto the lake! You can rent cute red little paddle boats for a minimum of 30 minutes during the Spring and Summer season. Else, you can also book the larger boat that includes sightseeing at some local villages nearby. It’s also a must to bring your swimming costume for a dip in the lake. There are a few dedicated swimming areas to choose from, such as at Lido Riva Caccia right in the city center.

For another activity, a top suggestion for seeing Lugano is a round route up the Monte Bre, to the village of Gandria, and back to the city. You can start by taking the funicular to the top of Monte Bre for the 180-degree views of Lugano city, then hike down to the stunning car-free village of Gandria. A recommended restaurant in Gandria is Ristorante Antico. Stop here before leaving and end the route with a boat trip back to Lugano lakeside promenade.

End your Lugano visit days with a stroll in Parco Ciani, the most beautiful city park in Lugano, beautifully well-kept with seasonal flowers all year long. Walk to the end to enjoy the beach area at sunset, a stunning spot to sit and relax.

Contributed by Zoe of Together In Switzerland

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Honorary mentions

Europe is filled with places to explore and it’s really hard to narrow down the list to only 23 of them. The destinations below are also well worth your time exploring in the coming year.

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Berlin, Germany

>> book your accommodation in Berlin

Germany’s capital, Berlin , has to be up there with the best European destinations for 2023. It’s a beautiful and vibrant city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s past or present, there is no shortage of great things to do and see.

For history buffs, there are countless museums and historical sites to explore. Most significantly there is the iconic 18th-century Brandenburg Gate, a great place to start sightseeing. Nearby is the Reichstag building, the seat of the German Parliament. This has a glass dome on the top and an observation deck with panoramic views across the city and river. There are also the remnants of the Berlin Wall to see and Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall border crossing during the Cold War. Poignant reminders of the Jews killed during World War II are nearby in the form of the Holocaust Memorial, as well as in the outstanding Jewish Museum in the Kreuzberg District.

For art lovers, the city has ‘Museum Island’. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the middle of the river that is home to five world-class museums that date back to 1830 and that are dedicated to art and antiquities. These are close to the Berliner Dom cathedral with its distinctive green dome and the Berliner Fernsehturm, the 368 m high TV tower that has a revolving restaurant.

Finally, for those looking for outdoor activities, Tiergarten Park offers a great place to explore. There are also boat trips along the river for those looking for a different way of viewing the main sights of this wonderful city.

Contributed by Emma of Travel on a Time Budget

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Douro Valley, Portugal

That Portugal is a perfect destination for satisfying cultural, culinary, and nature lovers’ interests is certainly not a discovery. And while wine lovers might know all about this area, for other travelers it is still slightly off the beaten track: Douro Valley.

This area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has something to offer to every type of visitor. Couples will love the enchanting scenery that almost looks like paintings. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the various walking options available and excellent bird-watching opportunities. And food lovers will be spoiled for choice between delicious traditional restaurants and mouthwatering starred restaurants. Culture lovers can devote themselves to exploring the villages and towns scattered along the Douro valley or some of the archaeological sites.

Finally, wine lovers will face difficult choices among all the vineyards that offer tastings of the famous fortified wine, Porto. Even those uninterested in wine will not be able to ignore the history of this region, which has grown and established its economy on the cultivation of grapes for the production of Port. On the river that gives it its name, it is still possible to see the famous Rabelo boats, once used to transport wine to Porto and now used to organize tours on the river from one hour to the whole day.

To travel from Porto to Douro Valley you have a couple of options. You can take the train, (even an old and charming steam train) and visit some of the main villages, but the best would be to rent a car so you can reach the less connected ones, like Lamego, Favois, or Provesende and many more of the fabulous vineyards.

Contributed by Clotilde of A princess travelling with twins

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Sibiu, Romania

Sibiu is one of the most beautiful cities in Romania and a must-visit for 2023. The city is located in Transylvania, and it is surrounded by mountains, which are capped with snow in the wintertime. Sibiu has Germanic architecture, and the historical town is still bordered by the old medieval city walls and towers, which can now be visited.

The city has two main squares, called “The Big Square” and “The Small Square”. In the Big Square. you will find the Council Tower, a 13th-century building which you can climb up to and see the beautiful panorama of the city. The Small Square is home to the Bridge of Lies. There are two legends surrounding this bridge. One says that if you tell a lie whilst you sit on the bridge, it will collapse underneath your feet. The other one, more realistic, says that the bridge got its name from the soldiers who, before going to war, would meet their lovers here, promising them they will get married upon their return. Many of them wouldn’t come back from the war.

The Small Square is also home to some great traditional restaurants, where you can enjoy a traditional eggplant salad (salata de vinete) , the national dish of Romania.

Most of the historical town of Sibiu is pedestrian, which makes it wonderful to stroll around and appreciate the architecture.

Contributed by Joanna from The Romanian Cookbook

>> also read about Sibiu, Romania: A Weekend of Sightseeing (and Tango)

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a commission.

2 thoughts on “ 23 Destinations to Visit in Europe in 2023 ”

Pingback: The Best Things to do in Gdańsk - Just Heading Out

Pingback: 24 Destinations to Visit in Europe in 2024 | Looknwalk

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Our Europe travel guide for 2023 & 2024

Are you looking to travel Europe in 2023 or 2024? Or maybe you’re a little unsure? Having travelled the continent multiple times, including 6 months in Europe full-time in 2022, we urge you to go for it! We didn’t regret it and it’s likely you won’t either! This blog will cover some key considerations for those looking to travel Europe in 2023 and 2024, along with some of our top recommendations for places that you might not even know exist!

Where should you travel in 2023?

Let’s start with the good stuff, planning what beautiful European destinations you might visit in 2023! The following recommendations are some of our top picks for your 2023 Europe trip , however it isn’t an exhaustive list. Additionally, we have numerous blogs providing further information on travel destinations if you are interested. If you have further questions, please comment below, email us, or engage with us on our Instagram channel.

OUR TOP EUROPE PICKS:

Southern italy:.

The south of Italy was delightful, and somewhere we just can’t wait to return back to! Particularly, Puglia and Sicily , and both destinations that we think are underrated (compared to the popular central/northern Italy) and deserve more attention.

The gem of Puglia is definitely the stunning Polignano a Mare, a seaside town that will always hold a special place in our hearts. Puglia also has numerous charming small inland and seaside towns that you could easily spend weeks exploring.

Sicily is one of the most southern points of Europe, and offers an excellent ‘shoulder season’ destination to prolong your summer. We visited in late September and were treated to excellent weather. The food is exceptional and whilst touristy, we found it less chaotic than the bigger cities in the north of Italy.

Read more about the south of Italy here:

Take a look at our visit and road trip through Puglia!
See our thoughts and recommendations on the stunning Polignano a Mare!
Take a look at our shoulder season visit to Taormina in Sicily.

Portugal remains one of our favourite trips to date! The country offers so much, with highlights and attractions for all types of travellers. Boasting incredible old cities you could spend days wondering, top shelf cuisine (including the delightful Pastel de Nata), stunning beaches, charming small towns and much more! We urge you to consider Portugal for your 2023 travels!

Check out 14 things we think you MUST DO when you visit Lisbon!
Take a look at our day trip to the ‘fairy-tale like’ Sintra!
Porto remains one of our favourite cities in Europe, see why here!
Keen on visiting the beaches? See our Algarve adventures here!

Croatia is no longer the underrated gem it was in the past, however the popularity is definitely justified! Boasting world-best beaches, delightful seaside towns, and lots of historic towns to explore, Croatia definitely deserves a place on your Europe 2023 travel itinerary. We would strongly recommend you visit the Croatian Islands, and after visiting many of the popular ones, we recommend Vis Island as our favourite! A trip to Croatia also isn’t complete without checking out Dubrovnik (think Game of Thrones). We spend almost 3 weeks in the beautiful country in 2022!

See our thoughts on our favourite island in Croatia, Vis!
See our guide to the historic city of Dubrovnik!

Jungfrau region in Switzerland:

The entire country of Switzerland is beautiful, however the Jungfrau region (and surrounding towns/lakes/mountains) was particularly enthralling. Think stunning views, incredible hikes, mountain-top chalets, and lots more! Whilst not a ‘budget friendly’ travel destination, we feel like Switzerland is worth the money, particularly if you are an outdoor/hike lover.

See our thoughts and guide for your visit to the Jungfrau region.
Where to stay in the Jungfrau? Consider staying in Wengen!
Don’t miss Oeschinensee when you travel to the region!

Interlarken jungfrau switzerland where to visit

SOME DESTINATIONS TO CONSIDER:

Turkish riviera:.

We visited the stunning Turkish coastline in September 2022, visiting the delightful Kaş . This small seaside town sits a few hours away from Antalya or Fethiye. It offers stunning beaches and crystal clear water, lots of wonderful restaurants, and a definite ‘holiday feel’. See more about one of our favourite places in Europe, Kas!

TRANSYLVANIA:

Transylvania is a picturesque region in central Romania that completely exceeded our expectations. Filled with charming small towns waiting to be explored, Transylvania is definitely an under-rated region of Europe we think you should consider visiting in 2023. We would highly recommend basing yourself in Brasov , and checking out the numerous towns and attractions nearby (like the Transfagarasan Highway). Take a look at our Transylvanian adventures here!

Scandinavia:

Scandinavia commonly refers to the northern European region consisting of Denmark, Sweden and Norway. However, typically countries like Iceland, Finland and Faroe Islands are also included as part of Scandinavia. We have only briefly sampled this region, visiting Denmark and Sweden, and already we know we want to return. Think clean cities, impressive architecture, beautiful nature, friendly locals and everything that runs on time. Wanting to do something a little different in summer? Consider spending time in Scandinavia, where you will be treated to some of the longest summer days in the world! Take a look at our visit to Copenhagen here!

If you have been following our blog/social media for awhile, you will know we just can’t stop raving about Lake Bled . Situated in Slovenia, this lakeside region is stunning! We will endeavour to return in the future, as Lake Bled provided us with stunning views, great hikes, good food and more! Our visit to Lake Bled and recommendations can be found here!

Southern France:

The south of France is so beautiful! Think rolling hills, charming old towns, great wine and lots to explore! We visited the Luberon/Provonce regions, basing ourselves in Avignon. Whilst we loved all of the towns in the region, our highlight was definitely the stunning Gordes ! Take a look at our South of France adventures and recommendations here!

The medieval Scottish city of Edinburgh was seriously impressive! We loved the old architecture, the great food, the charming streets, and the stunning views. Whilst maybe not your top summer pick for Europe, Edinburgh is perfect to add on to the end of your travels. See our thoughts on Edinburgh here!

Please note, this list does not include many of our favourites like Bruges, Leiden, Mostar, Kotor, Antiparos , Gjirokaster, Tuscany, Prague, Budapest, Lake Ohrid, Cappadocia, and more!

A few key considerations, recommendations, and tips for travelling Europe in 2023:

Don’t forget to think about:.

This is a little checklist of things you need to consider when planning your trip. Each of these topics could easily be a blog themselves, however this list is designed to get you thinking.

Passport! This is a MUST DO! You need to have at least 6 months on your passport from the date you plan to RETURN home! Don’t get caught out here! Check your passport now and plan early!
Travel insurance – Make sure you get it! Buy your travel insurance early so if you need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances, you might be covered. If you have health issues or things to include in your policy, make sure your policy will cover this and mention it when booking. We often use and recommend Safety Wing as we find it is very reasonably priced, and geared travelers like us, especially those doing extended periods of travel.
Travel credit card and/or debit card. Get a card that will minimise your oversees bank fees. It is very easy to spend $20 or more on a single ATM withdrawal overseas if you don’t have a good card. We use the 28 Degrees Credit Card, however need to look into better debit card for our next trip (yes, we got stung a bit by transaction fees).
Saving – earlier is better! We we able to save in advance for our Europe trips, and avoid going in to debt to travel. However, we know many people have have put themselves in reasonable amount of debt with a Europe holiday. Whilst we don’t give financial advice, we urge you to think about saving as early as you can to minimise your debt.
Travel days take longer than you think. If a flight says 1 hour, be prepared that the total journey will take at least half a day. Travel days end up taking more time than you think and we advise you to plan for this. Read more about travel days and our tips to ‘beat them’ here!
Book “cheap flights” early. In peak season, flights from carriers like RyanAir between popular destinations will book out!
Check that your destinations ‘link up’. Even if the itinerary makes sense in your head, you might not be able to get a flight/train etc between them. Depending on the length of your trip, spending a day (rather than a 1 hour flight) to get between locations might not be feasible.

Take a look at our thoughts on more things to know when you are planning your trip!

Planning a 6 month Europe trip – What to know

Our favourite places & where we want to visit in 2023 and beyond:

While we may not be heading back to Europe in 2023, we have a few destinations that are top of our list next time we return. These include Malta, Scandinavia, Puglia, Portugal, Sardinia, Poland and more! Our favourite places from our 6 month European travels in 2022 can be found here! Want to see our 6 month travel itinerary from 2022? See the itinerary and destinations here!

Polignano a Mare puglia drone most underrated place europe blog

What time of year should you travel?

Not every destination will be perfect for every climate. For example, Seville, a vibrant food lovers paradise in southern Spain, becomes almost unbearably hot in peak summer (sometimes >40 degrees). This is also similar for locations like Turkey, Sicily and more. These destinations are perfect pre/post the peak summer months. Additionally, big cities like Rome and Paris are perfect destinations to visit on the fringe of summer (or in colder months), when the weather is more temperate, and possibly less crowds. If you want to be walking around the cities a lot, consider what the weather might be when you visit. Furthermore, think about what you want to do in each of the locations you visit. E.g., there may be not much point visiting a beachside town in the middle of winter. Thus we recommend you check the average temperatures for the destinations you are thinking of visiting. Take a look at our thoughts on the best destinations for shoulder season in Europe!

Slow vs Fast Travel?

What kind of travel do you prefer? Do you know the difference? Have a read of our blog on slow vs fast travel as you plan the best way to structure your trip. See more here or click below.

Slow Travel vs Fast Travel

Look into your travel destinations a little more..

See some of the ‘best of’ awards from our travels in Europe with this guide!
How expensive are the cities you want to visit? Take a look at our thoughts on the most expensive cities in Europe.
Are the cities you want to visit overrated? Are they overrun with tourists, especially in peak season? See our thoughts here!
See our picks for the alternative Europe destinations you should consider!
Have a read of some things you might not expect when travelling Europe!
See the places in Europe that we would return back to!
Take a look at our top 6 ‘big cities’ in Europe that we loved!
See 16 of our favourite small towns around the world!
Are you a coffee lover? See our list of the BEST Coffee’s in Europe!
See our Favourite beaches in Europe!
Check our some of our top day trip locations in Europe!
Can you drink the tap water in Europe? See our recommendations here!
Beware of the busiest cities in Europe. Take a look here.
Proposing in Europe? See some top proposal locations here!
Trying to save money? See some of the cheapest destinations in Europe!

Europe Itineraries:

1 week Europe itineraries: see here!
1 month Europe itineraries – take a look!
3 month Europe itineraties: see our guide!
6 month Europe itinerary? See what we did!

Plan and prepare!

See our tips on how to save money when travelling full time!
Download some travel apps to make your life a whole lot easier! See our top picks here!
Where to stay? See some of our top accommodation picks in Europe here! Research further with these incredible unique accommodation stays to fuel your travel inspiration.
Travel days suck! See our top travel day tips and advice here!
How to navigate travel destinations ‘off the tourist path’! Key tips and considerations here!
See our thoughts on how to maximise a short stay or quick visit to a city!

A bit of perspective?

Travel can have a big impact on us as people! Have a read about how travelling for 6 months influenced and changed our lives!
Thinking of travelling and taking a career break? See Ky’s insightful thoughts on the topic here!
Stay in shape on holidays can be tough. See our thoughts on how to stay in shape on holidays!

Booking Accommodation in Europe in 2023:

Top Tip: get in early! The good stuff often gets booked out fast! This is particularly true for ‘cheaper’ gems in popular locations.

Further Tips:

Stay close to the action! Depending on how long you are staying, we would urge you to avoid lengthy transportation in/out of the cities.
Research where to stay beforehand – staying in the ‘centre’ of the city isn’t always the best call. In some cities where you stay makes a massive difference, e.g. we recommend staying the Le Marais in Paris (vs the touristic heart).
How far away is your accommodation from the train station (or transport options)? This may not stop you from booking somewhere, but it’s definitely a consideration.

Our Favourite Stays: See some of our top accommodation picks from Europe in our blog here!

Support Us: book you hotels through our Booking.com link . This will help fund the running of the website at no extra cost to you.

Santorini Greek islands acommodation views europe tips

Should you book a tour?

There are a multitude of tour options out there depending on the type of activity or experience you want. A few of the options below are good to consider:

Free walking tours: we were a huge fan of “free” walking tours. Most cities have them running multiple times per day in many languages. We found generally the guides we passionate, knowledgeable, and it was a great way to see the city. The tours aren’t really free, as the guides are paid based upon tips. Typically, a normal tip amount is around $10-20 per person, but that varies depending on currency and location.
Paid private tours: Many cities offer paid private tours from local guides. You can source these through operators like TripAdvisor, Viator and more. Hotels/Airbnb hosts will often also be able to recommend guides for you.
Viator tours: We have booked tours before through Viator , with this operator providing a variety of different tours in many areas around the world. Private, small group or larger group settings. See more here.
Intrepid Tours: Offering group tours in many countries, Intrepid are a big brand and generally have great tours. We did an Intrepid tour in Morocco. You can see our pros and cons of a tour in Morocco here.
Top Deck, Contiki, Sail Croatia, Yacht Week : If sailing around picturesque beaches and partying sounds like your kettle of fish, then there’s a lot of options like Sail Croatia (younger crowd) or Yacht Week. Group tours like Contiki (generally younger crowd, more party focus) and Top Deck are great options. Note that these tours limit your flexibility, and aren’t as cost effective as booking it yourself, however they allow you to see a lot and meet new people.
Cruises, Luxury Options? This isn’t our area of expertise. In Europe there are a multitude of luxury options like river cruises, train tours and more.

Enjoying our posts & advice? Subscribe to our blog!

Jump your email into the list below. We won’t spam you! It’ll just keep you updated whenever we post another travel-related adventure, memory or tid-bid!

WANT TO SEE MORE food recommendations & TRAVEL MEMORIES?

Take a look at some of the best hidden gems from our travels !

Find out a little bit more about the people behind 2 Cups of Travel!

Check out further highlights from our time in the Europe! Take a look!

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. This means that if you purchase or book anything using these links, we get a small percentage of the sale, at no extra expense to you . This helps us to run the site.

Tags: 2023 , beach , blog , copenhagen , croatia , drone , Europe , italy , itinerary , portugal , puglia , summer , turkey

Comments (7):

Travel Tips

January 23, 2024 at 5:54 am

This is a really nice post. It’s very informative and well organized. I’ll check back for more posts like this one.

2CupsofTravel

January 23, 2024 at 9:48 am

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

6 great things to do in Byron Bay

Byron Bay, one of the most relaxed places in Australia, is a cute beachside town we have visited multiple times.

oeschinensee oeschinen lake switzerland jungfrau

Travelling for 6 months? Here’s 5 things to consider before you go!

This little guide looks to give insight into a few of the things you might need to consider if you

Follow on Instagram:

Get in touch
Instagram @2cupsoftravel

Buy Me a Coffee

Europe’s Best Places to Visit in 2024

Whether you’re dreaming to embark on the ultimate arctic adventure, discover old and new capitals of culture, or just break away from the usual hotspots, you’ll find what you’re looking for in our list of the best places to visit in Europe in 2024.

Matera, Italy

The peculiar architecture, with pale stone walls and ancient cave dwellings ( sassi ) carved into the hills, should be reason enough to visit Matera, a unique prehistoric-looking city in the deep south of Italy.

But in 2019, the jewel of Basilicata finally got its moment in the spotlight as a European Capital of Culture, alongside Plovdiv in Bulgaria. That alone translated into an endless roll of events and festivities taking over la Città Sotterranea , as well as lots of derelict limestone grottoes turned into galleries, restaurants, and smart-design hotels with romantic vaulted rooms.

Nevertheless, it’s worth taking the time to soak up the town’s unspoiled charm. Spend an afternoon getting lost in the maze of narrow labyrinthine alleyways, meandering staircases, and pretty little courtyards that is Sassi di Matera (the UNESCO-protected old part of the city). Then, visit a couple of the numerous Rupestrian churches – hewn into the rock and decorated with centuries-old frescoes – that dot the area, and crown it all with a frothy cappuccino and a lip-smacking sfogliatella at a local bakery.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

If you’re looking for rugged natural beauty and authentic local experiences, this group of islands off the west coast of Scotland is the one to watch this year.

Also known as the Western Isles, the Outer Hebrides offer an unexpected mix of pristine Caribbean-looking beaches, Northern Lights, and thoughtfully preserved Gaelic culture.

You can spend hours here walking through the open countryside amid swathes of moorland thick with wildflowers and along epic coastal paths towering above wild, whirling seas. The air is fresh, the views endless, and the stillness of nature is balm to the soul.

In a place like this, hurrying makes no sense, nor does technology. Instead, embrace the leisurely pace of life, have a drink at a quirky local pub, and indulge in some of the best seafood and farm-to-table cuisine in Britain.

Meanwhile, the islands are particularly famous for their rich birdlife and enigmatic archaeological sites. Lewis is home to the famous Hebridean Celtic Festival and the Callanish Stones, which are older than Stonehenge and just as intriguing; North Uist abounds in wildlife; the airport on the Isle of Barra is the only one in the world using a beach as a runaway; and Harris prides itself with some of UK’s best beaches – think iridescent teal seas and miles of pure sugar-white sand.

Azores, Portugal

There are countless reasons to visit Portugal, but if your 2024 travel agenda includes soaking in bubbling geothermal hot springs, exploring lost-in-time fishing villages, and embarking on fresh off-the-beaten-path adventures, look no further than the Azores.

With luxuriant Lord of the Rings scenery, black volcanic beaches, and lakes of all shades of blue, this far-flung archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is like nowhere else on the continent. Dubbed the “Hawaii of Europe”, it is a place riddled with breathtaking natural wonders and distinct culture, where adventure reigns supreme.

Its 9 volcanic islands, each with its own character and geography, offer everything from beautiful Portuguese colonial architecture to world-class surfing to unrivaled whale watching. São Miguel, the largest and most diverse of them, is a paradise for hikers and marine enthusiasts, while Pico, which comes next, is home to stunning volcanic caves, rocky vineyards, and the highest mountain in Portugal. Terceira is best known for its vibrant festivals and UNESCO-listed capital Angra do Heroísmo, and Faial has some of the archipelago’s best beaches.

Everywhere you go, you’ll find brilliant hiking and walking opportunities, along with a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and oodles of quaint Iberian charm. Snorkeling is excellent too, thanks to the island’s rich underwater flora & fauna and the numerous undersea caves. You can even walk inside a volcano or visit the only tea plantation in Europe.

While constantly named among the world’s top destinations for sustainable tourism, the Azores are still a relatively hidden gem, affordable and largely undiscovered. And the best part, these fascinatingly remote Portuguese islands are as easy to reach from Europe as they are from the US, thanks to convenient direct flights from Boston, Oakland, and more recently, New York.

Transylvania, Romania

Best known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the ruthless Romanian prince who inspired Bram Stoker’s vampire novel, Dracula , Transylvania is a land of untainted natural beauty , medieval Saxon villages lost in time, and castles that whisper secrets of days gone by.

Contrary to their expectations, visitors will find the citadels of Transylvania more charming than creepy, and its fortress towns colorful and alive, rather than dark and gloomy. An air of mystery still pervades the place, but it is the valuable mix of authenticity, traditions, and an unspoilt cultural landscape that makes it so unique and intriguing.

In addition to its cultural and historical treasures, Transylvania is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of national parks with excellent hiking and skiing opportunities. Its vibrant, cosmopolitan cities (Sibiu, Brasov, Cluj) are brimming with classy restaurants, hip shopping boutiques, and chic cafés; its churches and museums shelter notable works of art; its awe-inspiring architecture displays layers of history, and its villages seem straight out from fairytales.

Berlin, Germany

There has never been a better time to visit Berlin. Germany’s cool, liberal capital welcomes visitors with vibrant art, glorious nightlife, and a brilliant food scene.

Last years have witnessed the opening of Humboldt Forum, a new large-scale museum housed in the rebuilt Berlin Palace, which now incorporates two institutions – the Ethnological Museum of Berlin and the Museum of Asian Art.

Besides, eccentric Berlin is a hotbed for creatives, with lots of quirky galleries, artisanal cafés, and hip workspaces infusing life in the city’s many derelict buildings. The streets are a canvas for graffiti artists, parks and green spaces stretch as far as the eye can see, and former warehouses have been transformed into clubbing temples. History is tangible here, but so is the explosive artistic energy that this big, multicultural metropolis exudes.

Top 10 Most Beautiful Countries in Europe

Tbilisi, georgia.

With a charming cobblestoned old town, delicious cuisine, and stylish hotels popping up like mushrooms, it’s no surprise Tbilisi often makes the lists of 2024’s top travel destinations.

Nestled in the valley of the Mtkvari River against a picturesque mountainous backdrop, the Georgian capital is weird, wonderful, and absolutely unique – an exceptional mélange of styles and eras, with Persian-style bathhouses standing next to ornate Armenian churches and crumbling Soviet factories turned into hipster hangouts; a legendary 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition; and an ancient fortress looming above.

Its medieval Old Town is a tangle of narrow cobblestone alleyways, mysterious vine-draped courtyards, and pastel-colored houses with intricately carved wooden balconies begging to be explored. There are vintage shops, old churches, and funky ventures all around; the coffee culture is booming; the culinary landscape is in the middle of a renaissance; and the nightlife scene is vibrant, varied, and tolerant – fueled by pumping electronic music, superb wines, and fiery chacha (local brandy).

The East-meets-West capital of Georgia is having a moment, and there’s no better time to visit than now, before tourists start flocking here.

Zadar, Croatia

While most visitors to Croatia focus on postcard-perfect Dubrovnik or fashionable islands like Hvar and Korčula, Zadar is making its mark with striking public art installations, an exceptional cultural heritage, and magical sunsets.

This cosmopolitan city along the northern Dalmatian Coast boasts gleaming Venetian marble streets, top-notch seafood restaurants, and a vibrant coffee scene. Jutting into the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic, its walled UNESCO-protected Old Town is a treasure trove of Roman remains, fascinating medieval churches, and narrow, atmospheric lanes buzzing with energy.

These days, however, Zadar’s main draw is its beautiful waterfront promenade, where an award-winning art installation called the Sea Organ uses the ocean waves to create soothing, hypnotic sounds. Nearby, Greeting to the Sun – its sunlight-powered companion piece designed by Nikola Bašić – puts on a fantastic light show as the night falls.

Couple these with Zadar’s bustling nightlife, laid-back pace of life, and youthful zeal, as well as easy day trips to sleepy islands and fairytale-like National Parks (Krka and Plitvice Lakes), and you have the kind of place European travel dreams are made of.

Copenhagen, Denmark

In the last few years, Copenhagen has rarely been out of the spotlight. And, considering that it’s constantly named one of Europe’s most livable, bike-friendly, and design-forward cities, that’s hardly a surprise.

Inspiring dining places, chic new hotels, and an excellent taste in design have transformed Copenhagen into Europe’s capital of cool. The city is jam-packed with culture, history, Michelin stars, and effortlessly stylish locals, and each of its eclectic neighborhoods has a charm of its own.

Nowadays, the trendiest of them is Vesterbro – a hipster district outside the city center, filled with quirky vintage shops, organic eateries, and wonderful street art. Even so, most visitors flock to Indre By, the touristy but no less charming Old Town – home to picturesque cobbled streets, fantastic museums, and the colorful Nyhavn area along the waterfront. Then there’s bohemian Christianshavn, multicultural Norrebro, and posh Frederiksberg – known for its elegant Neoclassical houses, glitzy fashion boutiques, and upmarket restaurants.

Visiting Copenhagen in December is like walking in a winter wonderland. Stunning architecture and a wealth of cultural treasures lend the Danish capital a storybook charm, but it’s the city’s creative vibes, clean Scandinavian design, and ambitious green agenda that really make it one of the best European cities to visit.

Copenhagen is aiming to become carbon neutral by 2025, and its state-of-the-art green power plant already hosts one of the longest artificial ski slopes in the world up on its roof. Need we say more?

Ljubljana, Slovenia

If you’ve already experienced the many delights of Croatia or the gloriously unspoiled coast of Montenegro, head to Ljubljana for an idyllic mix of cobbled streets, leafy parks, and cool riverside cafés, which is enough to make it one of our favorite places to visit in Europe in June .

Slovenia’s young and vibrant capital is stepping into the limelight with hot new hotels, forward-thinking restaurants, and a burgeoning cultural life. The architecture throughout the city celebrates both its rich past as well as its bright future, with everything from graceful Baroque and Viennese Secessionist buildings to Jože Plečnik’s modernist marvels to clever sustainable projects.

Ljubljana was named the Green Capital of Europe in 2016, so expect to find a city in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature, with excellent cycling infrastructure, outdoor activities galore, and a blissfully car-free historic center just waiting to be explored.

The turquoise Llubljanica River winds its way through the Old Town, an atmospheric enclave of elegant open squares, picturesque ornate bridges, and cobblestone alleys nestling in the shadow of Ljubljana Castle.

Add excellent museums, independent fashion boutiques, and a roster of summer festivals, plus a less-than-an-hour’s drive to magical Lake Bled, and there’s no doubting why Ljubljana is one of the best places to visit in Europe right now.

Almeria Province, Spain

Beach with crystal clear water in Almeria

Of all of Spain’s Andalusian provinces, Almeria is probably the most diverse, unique, and strikingly beautiful. It is a strange place where heavenly beaches coexist with barren lunar landscapes alongside Europe’s most fertile agricultural areas.

The spectacular rocky coastline of Cabo de Gata natural park is home to long, pristine sandy beaches, flamingo-studded salt flats, and secret coves lapped by the clearest Mediterranean seas, but head inland, and you’ll discover the only real desert in this part of the world. Desierto de Tabernas is a geological marvel scattered with otherworldy ochre-colored formations, dry riverbeds, and Wild West theme parks once used as filming locations for Sergio Leone’s famous spaghetti westerns.

Often overlooked by travelers to the South of Spain, the province’s capital city, also called Almeria, has one of the best tapas scenes in the country, plus tranquil palm-fringed squares, splendid churches, and a spectacular 10th-century Moorish fortress (Alcazaba).

Less than 100 km east lies the impossibly pretty hilltop town of Mojácar, with its whitewashed labyrinth-like pueblo and gorgeous Blue Flag beaches.

Breathtaking rocky fjords, majestic glaciers, and quiet, colorful towns make Greenland one of the best places to visit in 2024 – at least for lovers of the Arctic Circle and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

A massive icy island between Iceland and the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, Greenland is as enthralling as it is remote. Though geographically part of North America, it is actually an autonomous constituent country of the Kingdom of Denmark, with a unique and fascinating Inuit culture all of its own.

There are no roads between towns, which means getting around is neither easy nor cheap. However, with a bit of planning or the help of a local travel agency, your trip to the world’s largest non-continental island will be memorable for all the right reasons.

Depending on the season, visitors can cruise among icebergs under the midnight sun, kayak through icefields, explore the barren Greenland Ice Sheet (which covers 80% of its surface) on a dog sled, and spot incredible wildlife – from arctic foxes and wolves to whales and polar bears – in the planet’s largest national park (Northeast Greenland National Park). Greenland also boasts fantastic opportunities for hiking, heli-skiing, whale-watching, and Aurora Borealis viewing.

Never Miss A Story

I consent to receive email updates from Travel Away

Joanne Herd
Jan 6, 2023

Ready to explore Europe? Here are 5 destinations you can't miss in 2023

After nearly 3 years of interrupted and difficult travel, most of Europe has dropped all pandemic restrictions and is open for business. Not only is it open, it’s looking like 2023 will be a record year for many locations.

So if you’re ready for your next (or first) trip to the continent, here are 5 destinations you should consider.

1) London, England

Sunset view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament from Westminster bridge. The iconic clock tower is silhouetted against a vivid orange and pink sky, with the Thames River flowing in the foreground. The image captures the beauty and grandeur of London's architecture and skyline at twilight.

Home to luxury hotels, charming pubs, world-class (and often free) museums, and centuries of history, London has something for everyone.

2023 will also be a historic year, with the coronation of King Charles III taking place on May 6.

Known for its luxury hotels, the London scene is set for a shakeup in 2023 with multiple highly anticipated openings including The Peninsula London in Belgravia, the Mandarin Oriental in Mayfair, and the Raffles London at the Old War Office.

For the best weather with fewer crowds, consider traveling in April/May or September/October.

Read more: 10 things you (probably) don’t know about London

2) Sicily, Italy

Palermo Cathedral, a stunning medieval church located in the heart of the historic city center. The image shows the intricate details of the cathedral's ornate facade, including its distinctive Arab-Norman architecture and intricate mosaics. The warm colors of the stone walls and the blue sky in the background add to the beauty of the scene, capturing the essence of Sicilian art and history.

Fans of White Lotus who want to experience the real-life luxury that inspired the second season of the hit show will want to take a trip to the island of Sicily. From the capital city of Palermo to the luxury hotels of Taormina (where the show was set), there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

In addition to the luxury hotel scene, take the time to visit Sicily’s multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, remote mountain communities, and charming seaside villages.

Sicily has its own unique style of Italian cuisine. Seafood is plentiful thanks to the island’s 600 miles of coastline, and arancini (fried rice balls) are one of the most popular snacks. Pasta alla norma, with tomato, eggplant and salted ricotta cheese, and pasta con le sarde, with sardines, fennel, pine nuts and raisins are also popular.

3) Transylvania, Romania

Rural landscape of Transylvania, Romania, featuring rolling hills and green fields stretching towards the distant mountains. The image showcases a peaceful and idyllic countryside scene with scattered traditional houses and farms, surrounded by lush forests and trees in autumn colors. The misty atmosphere and low-hanging clouds add a touch of mystery to the landscape, evoking the region's folklore and legends.

To experience Europe’s last true wilderness, head north of Romania’s capital of Bucharest to Transylvania. There you’ll find alpine meadows, ragged limestone ridges, and old-growth forests.

Transylvania’s mountains are still home to Europe’s largest carnivores, including brown bears, wolves and lynx. A reserve is currently being created to protect this vast wilderness, a “European Yellowstone” that will stretch across 618,000 untamed acres in Romania’s Southern Carpathian Mountains.

While most people know of Transylvania thanks to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, it’s also a famous wine region best known for its whites. The region has been producing wine for approximately 6,000 years, making it one of the oldest producers of wine in the world.

4) Vienna, Austria

A charming square in Vienna, Austria, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling with activity. The image shows outdoor cafes with tables and chairs, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy coffee, pastries, and conversation. The ornate architecture of the buildings, featuring balconies, stucco facades, and wrought iron details, adds to the city's charm and elegance.

2023 marks the 150th anniversary of Vienna’s 1873 World’s Fair, and the city is planning celebrations all year long to mark the event. It’s also the 300th anniversary of the city’s palatial Belvedere museum.

Vienna is also famous for its coffee house culture, and Café Landtmann, one of Vienna's best-known coffee houses, will also celebrate its 150th anniversary this year.

Nonstop flights from multiple US cities make Vienna an easy city to visit, but it can also now be paired easily with a trip to Paris thanks to the NightJet train service that will run three times per week. Guests can enjoy a private compartment, departing Paris around dinner time and arriving in Vienna around 10am.

5) Hvar, Croatia

A scenic evening view of Hvar city and harbor, located on the Croatian island of Hvar in the Adriatic Sea. The image features a colorful sky at sunset, with golden rays of sunlight reflecting on the calm waters of the harbor. Several luxurious yachts and boats are visible, moored in the harbor, surrounded by historic buildings, terracotta roofs, and palm trees. The picture captures the unique blend of natural beauty and Mediterranean charm that characterizes Hvar's coastal town.

If you’re looking for sun, look no further than Hvar, Croatia. The Dalmatian island bills itself as the sunniest in Croatia.

Thanks to Croatia’s acceptance into the Schengen travel zone, passport checks entering and exiting Croatia from mainland Europe will no longer be necessary and the Euro will become the official currency in 2023. That makes it even easier to add Croatia to a European trip this year.

The island also has some of the best stargazing in southern Europe, with Jesla, on the island’s north shore, being named southern Europe’s first International Dark Sky Community.

Lavender lovers will want to visit in July, when the town of Velo Grablje celebrates its lavender festival. Food, drink, and family-friendly activities of all kinds are centered around the beautiful, fragrant Mediterranean plant.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking for big city adventures, wine tasting or time spent in nature, Europe has something to offer in 2023.

If you're ready to start planning your next vacation you'll want our free download, "5 Tips for Planning Your Dream Trip."

London Escapades: 7 Can't Miss Things to do in London

My favorite historic pubs in London

10 interesting London facts you (probably) don't know

City breaks in Europe Destinations

The best cities to visit in Europe in 2023

I don’t know about you, but somehow last year I had a hard time getting back into traveling. I have to admit I got pretty rusty during the pandemic! Anyway, that’s supposed to change in 2023: I want to travel more again, get to know new places and rediscover old ones. Is that what you also set out to do? Then my list of ideas for a few great city trips in Europe is definitely something for you! Just save this post somewhere and you can always get ideas for the next spontaneous city trip throughout the year!

Pro Tip: ➜ Book early to secure the cheapest tickets: Book cheap flights for your city breaks here! * ➜ Explore the cities of Europe by train: Buy a ticket at a special price with Super Sparpreis from Deutsche Bahn * ➜ Best to book overnight stays directly via booking.com * With just a few bookings, you’ll slide into a higher Genius level and get lower prices!

#11 Palma de Mallorca

#12 hamburg, #14 dresden, #15 timisoara, #18 manchester, city breaks in 2023: my outlook, welcome to my travel blog.

Hey, I’m Tatiana, a German-Brazilian living in Berlin & the author behind The Happy Jetlagger. I’ve been writing about my travels since 2014. In addition to my job as a flight attendant, this blog is my passion project!

What can I say? Before I tell you about the little insider tips in Rome , you should also have seen the classics in Rome . This city is just so bombastic and interesting, you’re busy enough just seeing the usual sights like the Colosseum , Trevi Fountain or St. Peter’s Basilica .

Spanish Steps in Rome with view of Fontana di Trevi

Spaniards in general are already very open, but Andalusians really pull out all the stops. “Hola reina”, “como estás reina”, “aqui tiene reina” – I really like this Andalusian habit of always being addressed very affectionately as “reina”, meaning “queen”. If you are looking for joie de vivre and positive energy , then Seville is the place for you!

City trip Seville view from Las Setas with view of the Alcázar of Seville

Tip : Watch the flamenco dancers at the Plaza de España and let yourself be carried away by the intriguing atmosphere in a city that is bursting with passion.

If you are looking for a place to stay in Seville , I recommend the Boutique Hotel La Parada de Marques *! Brand new, really great design, nice people – you’ll love it!

Boutique hotel in old building with tile floor in Seville

Oh Paris! This city is just such a classic ! Even though it’s super expensive and most people rant about the rude and overbearing French. Which I don’t understand at all, because I don’t perceive Parisians rarely as rude (well, living in grumpy Berlin, I might have different standards) and if I were French – hey, I would also be pretty proud of this awesome city!

Tip : Going up the Eiffel Tower by day ( buy tickets in advance here to avoid lines *) and admire the glittering landmark of Paris from below in the evening!

More tips for your perfect day in Paris

Advertising / *affiliate links

In Zagreb , I probably experienced the most memorable museum visit of my life: the Museum of Broken Relationships features artifacts from broken relationships. Sounds crazy, and a bit like those tourist museums that are supposed to seem fun, but in the end you’re just annoyed about the money you’ve spent. But it is quite different there, and not only once did the exhibition pieces bring tears to my eyes, whether from joy or sad emotion. Definitely worth a recommendation. And Zagreb as a city is also a good destination for a city break!

Roof of St. Mark's Church in Zagreb with coat of arms and colorful tiles in mosaic

Okay, Austrians will roll their eyes now, but to me, Graz is one of Vienna’s little sisters, along with Salzburg . Less crowded, less overwhelming, but still a mix of tradition, culture and pretty good food. And with its picturesque location on the Mur River and plenty of greenery around it, Graz is perfect for a relaxing city break! By the way: The trip gets really perfect with a stay at the Grand Hôtel Wiesler* , which is located in the city directly on the Mur and is just terribly pretty!

Tip : Visit the current exhibition at the Kunsthaus Graz (admire the impressive futuristic building on the side!) and then enjoy the panorama with a glass of wine on the Schlossberg .

Vilnius was my last stop, so to speak, in 2022 ( read my article about Vilnius here ). By the time I got to Vilnius, winter was already upon us and that was quite a challenge for me as I’m more a summer person. Nevertheless, the mix of history, culture and a young and open atmosphere was very exciting. And at Hotel Pacai *, I had one of the nicest hotel stays in a long time. It was relatively quiet in winter, but from previous visits (admittedly half a lifetime ago) I can still remember how lively it gets here in the summer . And especially in 2023: Vilnius will be celebrating its founding 700 years ago!

Tip : Vilnius is the only city in Europe where you can float over the city center in a hot air balloon.

Venice is always a good idea, and even if Venice is hijacked by tourists in summer – it is still an incredibly fascinating city. The location in the lagoon , the old palazzi , so much art : I’ve actually been to Venice only once, but this was certainly not the last time!

My advice : Go up to the terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi for sunset & browse the shelves at the Libreria Acqua Alta .

View over the Grand Canal from the roof terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Venice at sunset

Last year I unexpectedly ended up in Prague again and was just super happy about the day I got to spend there. Prague is just one of those cities full of history and old glamour and has a very special vibe.

Tip : Walk across Charles Bridge and take a boat trip across the Vltava River *.

I don’t know if it’s the upcoming coronation of King Charles III or the hype around Harry and Meghan at all, but London has been dominating my Instagram feed lately as far as major cities in Europe go! Well, London is always pretty anyway – so why not consider it for 2023?

Tip : Pick up the London Harry Potter vibe at platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross station & then sip champagne at the bar right next door at St.Pancras station.

Champagne Bar at St. Pancras Station in London

I’ve been to Gdansk again a few times in 2022, and I rediscovered some great locations there! For example, I went to the site of the old Gdansk shipyard for the first time – and it was so exciting, I hope to go again in the spring or summer. Then the huge crane is also open, from which you have a really good view over the city.

More tips & sights in my Gdansk Guide

Actually, my second home Palma already gets enough visitors in summer. However, I heard that this year the number of cruise ships docking and thus the crowds that flood the streets of the old town during the day will be limited. Anyway, the cruise tourists usually flock in the same direction and I still have so many tips for great locations in Palma (like my favorite neighborhood, Molinar ) that the mainstream doesn’t know about. So get ready for more insider tips for Palma here on the blog!

Here you will find all tips for Mallorca

I haven’t been to Hamburg for ages and I don’t know why! Hamburg is only an ICE ride away from Berlin. I like to travel by train anyway, and I don’t let constant delays or a non-existent service culture like from our German train service stop me! (By the way, with the Flixtrain there is still a good alternative to the Deutsche Bahn in Berlin; also not always perfect, but sometimes a refreshing alternative).

My plan for Hamburg: Rediscover the city & explore areas I’ve never been to before, e.g. the Reeperbahn and St.Pauli (I’ve never seen those areas in what feels like fifty visits to Hamburg, can you imagine?).

I’ve never been a big fan of Madrid. But after my blogger bestie Sandra raved about so many tips in Madrid last year, I should give the city a chance again and go looking for the best tortillas in Madrid myself.

According to Lonely Planet , Dresden is one of the top travel destinations for 2023 . But actually, Dresden has always been a great destination. Besides the usual sights like the Zwinger , the Semper Opera and the Frauenkirche , I recommend a trip to the Neustadt where Dresden gets a bit wilder and alternative.

My insider tip for Dresden: The organic café in the Japanese Palace , with its own small garden in the courtyard!

Admittedly, Timisoara and I took off on bad terms. I’ve probably been there too many times, and at a time when Timisoara and, for that matter, the rest of Romania were anything but hip and trendy. Or maybe it was due to the rather revealing nightclub advertisement in the elevator of our crew hotel, which was meant to attract guests to the hotel bar in the basement. And I bet many (mostly male) guests on a business trip were very happy about the hint. Already a very unusual flair for one of the better hotels in town.

Be that as it may, Timisoara has been properly spruced up in recent years, and perhaps the last windy fortune seekers will soon disappear. In 2023, Timisoara is one of the Capitals of Culture in Europe and I am curious to see how the city has changed.

I realized with horror how long it has been since I’ve been to Lisbon . Yet the Portuguese capital is my absolute place of strength; especially in winter, when it’s gray and dreary in Germany, a sunny day in Lisbon is worth its weight in gold I don’t know what it is, but the light, the water around it, the wind of the Atlantic make it one of my favorite cities in Europe . And of course the Portuguese, the delicious food, the great old town and much more.

More about Lisbon

After my Algarve trip the year before last, I almost got stuck in Faro! I just didn’t want to go back to Berlin. What it is, I don’t know, but Faro is possibly just the perfect mix of Portuguese lifestyle, laid-back cafes and stunning beaches just outside the city.

Learn more about Faro in my article on Travellers Insight

My personal UK expert Sandra from A decent cup of tea always says Maaaaahn-schesta with a long “a”- but I always think of Manchester and English as the hot potato that every Mancunian has to have in the mouth when speaking. The broad accent is just one of a kind! And in general, I feel a bit at home in Manchester, probably also because there are quite a few parallels between Manchester as an old industrial city and my original home region, the Ruhr area, the first industrial area in Germany.

Sandra’s tip for Manchester : Tib Street in the hip Northern Quarter with street art, specialty coffee cafes and craft beer pubs till you drop.

Pub in the Northern Quarter in Manchester

Okay, Basel is in Switzerland , so that makes it extra expensive, and anyway, in Swiss cities you always have to ask yourself if it’s worth having half a heart attack every time you run up a bill at the café. But Basel in summer is just cool because of its Rhine swimming : Put your clothes in the so-called “Wickelfisch” (a waterproof plastic bag), swimwear on, jump into the Rhine and let yourself drift on the Wickelfisch with the quite swift current. Always an amazing experience!

Actually, I’ve had quite an overdose of stays in Poland in the last few years, because I’m there all the time for work reasons. But that also means that a considerable number of tips have piled up that I still absolutely have to share with you here on the blog – from the best St. Martin’s croissants to a real jungle , I still have quite a few in store for Poznan. And if you’re looking for a nice and easily accessible destination for a short trip that won’t blow a huge hole in your travel budget, Poznan is just perfect!

Omg, I just miss overnights in northern Italy ! In the meantime, I have given up hope of ever returning to Milan , Bologna or even Torino on duty. Whether for a casual cappuccino or tango dancing under arcades, I’ll definitely have to return!

You can find more travel tips for Bella Italia here

Reus was one of my new discoveries in Spain last year, along with Tarragona ! Only a hundred kilometers from Barcelona , it is perfectly accessible by train for a day trip from there! Find out what you can experience there in my travel guide for Reus !

Tip: In general, a trip to Catalonia is worthwhile. Here you can find my Catalonia insider tips !

Opinions differ about my current hometown , which I constantly quarrel with, but which is also simply unique in many ways. Berlin is loud, chaotic and dirty – but you shouldn’t let such trivialities stop you!

Besides, there’s so much to see in Berlin, there’s a pretty good chance there’s still plenty to discover. When I talk to people who didn’t like the city so much, I often realize that they were just exploring the wrong corners. To make sure that doesn’t happen to you, I’ve resolved to share more tips for Berlin here on the blog this year!

For example, like this one: Breakfast at the Reichstag

➜ Book your table on the roof terrace of the Reichstag here *

I’m excited to see what city breaks the new year brings me. As always, I am very spontaneous in planning, but anyway I am often on the road professionally as a flight attendant in Europe. Anyway, I hope I was able to give you some travel inspiration. And if you want to know where I’m off to right now, just follow me on Instagram !

How to Enjoy Venice in Summer

Venice: The bookstore Libreria Acqua Alta

The awkward monk procession in Luang Prabang

Best in Europe.

Your selection of the best places to visit in europe.

Want to discover the best of Europe? You are in the right place. Find inspiration from thematic rankings made thanks to the votes of travellers from around the world. These are your bucket lists of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe .

Discover the best destinations for Christmas , the most beautiful beaches in Europe, the best summer festivals, the best family destinations , the most romantic destinations , the hidden gems or the best fairytale destinations and many more. There is so much to discover in Europe!

hidden gems 2024

places to declare your love

beaches in Italy

fairy tale destinations

places to visit in France

Best destinations in Europe.

Explore the trendiest destinations.

In partnership with more than 300 European tourism offices including 80 sustainable tourism destinations, we invite you to discover the best of Europe. Do you want a city break or a refreshing break in the country? Can’t make up your mind between a holiday on one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe or a family skiing holiday , a shopping trip with friends or a romantic getaway with your lover? What about a gastronomic trip or a culture trip ?

Discover the most beautiful destinations in Europe. Make your choice and plan your trip at the best price in just a few minutes.

City Break

Marbella, Spain

European Best Destination 2024

Gastronomy

Porto, Portugal

Local specialities: Port wine and seafood

Copenhagen, Denmark

Art galleries, designers shops, live music...

Riga, Latvia

A spectacular variety of natural, culinary and cultural charms.

malta-best-destinations-for-nature-lovers

Stunning coastlines that are just waiting to be explored!

Plan your trip to Europe

Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs...

Fresh deals every single day

Thousands reviews you can trust

Tours, Sightseeing & Activities

Discover Europe’s biggest collection of things to do and guided tours.

Whatever you want to do you’ll find it here.

More destinations

Trip finder., discover your next adventure.

Destinations

City Breaks

Nature Lovers

Sustainable

DAILY Travel inspiration.

@europeanbestdestinations on instagram.

Best in Europe

Best Destinations 2024

Best ski resorts

Best Christmas markets 2024

Best beaches in Europe

Sustainable tourism in Europe

European Best Destinations

EDEN Destinations

Connect with us

Subscribe to discover latest travel inspiration, tips and deals from European Best Destinations.

My Newsletter

Best in Europe.

Your ultimate bucket list to travel in Europe

destinations 2024

Most exclusive

destinations

sustainable destinations

romantic destinations

places to visit Netherlands

Art Nouveau destinations

places to visit in Portugal

medieval destinations

Family holiday

hidden gems

blue water destinations

for digital detox

Green Capitals

open-minded destinations

natural wonders in France

hidden gems in Italy

islands in Greece

things to do in Austria

European Best Destinations ®

Scroll to top

Welcome to the Graced Girl Blog!

Fashion & Beauty
Health & Wellness
Home & Decorating
Relationships
Self Growth & Personal Care
Things To Do

Graced Girl

Finance | Travel | Lifestyle

Travel · April 6, 2023

50 Best Places To Visit In Europe In 2023 (With Map Of Europe)

If there’s one thing that everyone loves about traveling to Europe, it’s the diversity of places you can visit. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with a wide range of different attractions and experiences on offer to visitors from around the globe. This can make picking a destination for your next trip an overwhelming task.

However, if you’re a true travel junkie, there are some must-visit places in Europe that you shouldn’t miss.

Whether you are looking for fascinating cities rich in history and culture, stunning natural scenery or some of the best beaches in the world, Europe has something to suit every type of traveler.

Here are just 50 of the best places to visit in Europe as a foreigner;

Table of Contents

Map of The Continent Of Europe

50 Best Places To Visit In Europe: A Bucket List For Travel Junkies

1. deventer, netherlands.

Deventer is a lovely city in the east of the Netherlands. It is one of the many Hanseatic League towns in The Netherlands and is not frequently visited by tourists.

2. Prague, Czech Republic

When visiting Europe, everyone should include Prague in their travel plans. Its central European location, fascinating history, and beautiful sights throughout the city will keep you busy for your stay.

3. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. It is rich in culture and has numerous historical and architectural wonders. The Grand Place and the Cathedral of Saint Michaels are two of the city’s most beautiful tourist attractions.

4. Causeway Coast, Ireland

The Causeway Coastal Route is one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations. The Causeway Coastal Route runs along Northern Ireland’s northern coast, from Derry (in the west) to Belfast (in the east).

5. Italy, Sardinia

Imagine an island in Europe with beautiful beaches and fascinating traditions while enjoying mild weather all year.

6. Paris, France

Discussing the best places to visit in Europe is impossible without mentioning Paris. The beauty, sites, food, rude waiters, and wine of the city of lights are well-known worldwide. The city bleeds atmosphere and romance.

7. High Tatra Mountains, Slovakia

Slovakia’s High Tatras National Park. It has the highest peaks in the Carpathian Mountains. The mountains are a popular year-round destination in Central Europe for incredible hiking, climbing, and skiing.

8. Italy’s Procida Island

There are three beautiful islands in the Bay of Naples in southern Italy: ritzy Capri, volcanic Ischia, and tiny, sleepy, gorgeous Procida. Procida is only about a mile long, but it is unquestionably one of Europe’s most beautiful places.

9. Tatra National Park, Poland

Tatra National Park is one of Poland’s greatest treasures. The Tatras are the most spectacular of the country’s 28 beautiful mountain ranges. While hiking in the Tatras, you can enjoy breathtaking views. This is the best places to visit in Europe as a foreigner.

10. Ponta Da Piedade, Portugal

With sun-kissed cliffs that tower over the deep blue Atlantic Ocean almost all year, Portugal’s Algarve Coast, without a doubt, is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The coastline is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including Marinha Beach.

11. Terceira Island, Azores

The Azores Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. They are a fantastic year-round destination due to the subtropical weather. Three of the nine islands are particularly appealing: São Miguel, Pico, and Terceira.

12. Bruges, Belgium

There isn’t a single spot in the city that won’t make your head explode in awe. It’s known as the Venice of the North. This World Heritage site has it all, from the beautiful architecture of its historical buildings to the fairytale-like canals and the peaceful Beguinage.

13. Lake Königssee, Germany

Lake Königssee is one of the most beautiful places in both Bavaria and Europe. Lake Königssee, located in Germany’s Berchtesgaden National Park, is one of the deepest lakes in the world. The lake is filled with crystal clear water. Sheer cliffs surround it.

14. Greece, Santorini

The soaring cliffs provide breathtaking views of the sparkling Aegean. The volcanic landscape is stunning. There are sunset boat tours, villages perched on cliffs, and volcanic swimming holes. It is undoubtedly one of Greece’s best, most popular, and most expensive islands.

15. Graal Müritz, Germany

Graal Müritz has a beautiful beach promenade with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Famous restaurants include ‘The Sailor’ and ‘Fischhus,’ serving delicious food and excellent German beer. The beach is ideal, with soft sand and water that, while slightly chilly, is always refreshing.

16. Rome, Italy

Rome is one of the best places to visit in Europe as a foreigner, if not the world, with its remarkable history and architecture dating back to the ancient Roman Empire and continuing right up through the mediaeval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras.

17. Czech Republic, Cesky Krumlov

Fairytale town nestled among the forested hills of the Czech Republic’s southeast. A massive, imposing castle dominates the skyline. Winding cobblestone alleys, traditional underground taverns, a spiraling central tower, watermills, and luxurious hill-top gardens abound in the town.

18. Isle Of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is more than just another beautiful place in Europe; it’s also magical. The Isle of Skye, Scotland’s most significant island in the Inner Hebrides, is unlike any other. Its breathtaking landscapes transport you to another world.

19. Chania, Crete – Greece

Chania’s Old Town is a stunning destination located on the island’s Northwest coast, about two hours from Crete’s capital, Heraklion. Due to several centuries of foreign dominance, the city has a distinct and eclectic architecture.

20. The Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands are one of Europe’s most comfortable and exotic vacation destinations. The weather on the Canary Islands is spectacular all year. Roads, infrastructure, and currency all add to the Iberian Peninsula’s European lifestyle.

21. Scotland, Ben Nevis

Scotland is beautiful because of its natural surroundings, culture, and people. The trail ascends through rolling Highland hills, and from the summit, you can see across stunning Scottish islands and surrounding lakes.

22. Capri, Italy

Capri is, without a doubt, one of Europe’s most beautiful places. Capri is the crown jewel of the Italian islands. It has a long history of old-school glamour and serving as a second home for the wealthy and powerful.

23. North Wales, United Kingdom

North Wales is beautiful because of its ancient castles, snow-capped mountains, magnificent waterfalls, glistening lakes, and long sandy beaches.

24. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is undoubtedly one of best places to visit in Europe as a foreigner, culturally rich, and enjoyable cities to visit. Budapest, known as the Pearl of the Danube, is full of charming and beautiful sights to see and things to do.

25. Norwegian, Coast

The hills and fjords are impossibly green and steep, with picturesque waterfalls and isolated bright-red houses. Moving north, the landscape becomes rougher, with more exposed rock and less green, but the view remains breathtaking.

26. Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca, a Spanish island, is one of the most famous European vacation destinations. Mallorca is the largest island in a chain that also includes Ibiza. Set on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Beautiful coastlines on the island range from white sand beaches to rocky cliffs with intricate seaside caves and hidden coves.

27. Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria

Seven Rila Lakes in Bulgaria is a lovely spot high in the Bulgarian mountains. Despite this, the location is relatively easy to reach and is equipped with a cable car.

28. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, frequently overlooked in favour of other capitals. Copenhagen shines for anyone who visits, with dazzling canals, stunning architecture, and so many things to do.

29. Salzburg, Austria

Mountains that are lush with greenery or dusted with snow are breathtaking. Salzburg isn’t as touristy as many of the surrounding areas, but it has just as much, if not more, beauty without the crowds that larger cities have.

30. Rhine Valley, Germany

The Rhine Valley in Germany is one of Europe’s most beautiful areas. The Rhine River gently flows through a steep valley. Small towns and villages with steepled churches and half-timbered houses line the river’s edge.

31. Pyrenees, Spain And France

The French Pyrenees are a breathtakingly beautiful place to visit. This lofty mountain range runs for about 430 kilometers along the French-Spanish border and is home to snowy peaks (even in summer) and some of Europe’s rarest wildlife, including vultures and brown bears.

32. Bosnia, Sarajevo

Sarajevo is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Bosnia’s capital has a picturesque old town surrounded by green rolling hills and forested mountain slopes. Therefore, it’s a fantastic city for both cultural and outdoor activities. The best places to visit in Europe as a foreigner.

33. Black Sea Coast, Bulgaria

The Bulgarian Black Sea coast is stunning and well worth a visit in the summer. It’s lovely to visit if you enjoy great beaches, history, or both.

Malta is a Mediterranean archipelago between Sicily and Africa’s northern coast. It is known for its rich and varied history, which can be found reflected all over the island, from prehistoric monolithic temples to the legacy of the Knights of St. John.

35. Meteora, Greece

Meteora is arguably one of Greece’s most exciting tourist destinations. Meteora’s mountaintop monasteries are a marvel of human creativity, located in the middle of mainland Greece, in the western region of Thessaly, far from the sunny beaches.

36. Madrid, Spain

Madrid is one of the best cities in Spain to visit because of its incredible tapas culture, world-class museums, and nightlife. On top of that, Madrid is an excellent base for day trips to some of Spain’s most iconic cities, such as Segovia, Toledo, and Avila.

37. Ring Of Kerry, Ireland

The Ring of Kerry in Ireland has to be one of the most beautiful places in Europe. This 179-kilometre-long circular scenic drive in County Kerry is a breathtaking part of Ireland.

38. Cotswold, Uk

The Cotswolds are six counties in the South West of England that stretch between Stratford Upon Avon and Bath. Rivers rush through traditional stone villages surrounded by rolling green hills and farmland.

39. Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is one of Europe’s most beautiful places, with fairy-tale castles, soaring mountain peaks, charming villages, and green forests. Because Bavaria is Germany’s largest state, there is plenty to see and do. It is home to the vibrant city of Munich, where the world-famous Oktoberfest is a must-see event.

40. Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw has a complicated history, having been ruled by eight different kingdoms, which has resulted in fascinating architecture. Every structure here has a story to tell. If you walk to the center of Old Town Square, you will feel like you have stepped into a storybook.

41. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of Europe’s most underrated countries, owing to its location “in the shadow” of many world-famous destinations nearby. However, it is a hidden gem. The country, located in the eastern part of the Balkans, has an unusual variety of natural landscapes and a fantastic culture.

42. Austrian Alps, Austria

The Austrian Alps, primarily found in the Austrian state of Tirol, resemble something out of a children’s storybook. Snow-dusted mountain peaks, cozy valleys, friendly locals, and the welcoming feeling that life is simple and joyful await you here. The best places to visit in Europe as a foreigner.

43. Sassi Di Matera, Italy

Sassi di Matera, Matera’s “old town” in southern Italy. Humans have been living here for nearly nine thousand years, making it one of the world’s most extended and continuously occupied places. And over the eons, the residents gradually built a charming town.

44. Cinque Terra, Italy

Cinque Terre is a collection of five centuries-old seaside villages on Italy’s rugged Riviera coast. Colorful houses and vineyards cling to steep terraces in each of the five towns, harbors are filled with fishing boats, and trattorias serve seafood specialties and the region’s famous sauce pesto.

45. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is a lake in the Julian Alps of Slovenia’s Upper Carniolan region, adjacent to the town of Bled. Hike up Velika Osojnica (2,480 feet) for panoramic views of Lake Bled and the surrounding mountains.

46. Bergamasque Prealps, Italy

Prealpi means “before the Alps,” referring to the hilly areas separating the big mountains from the flat Pianura Padana. Lombardy is most likely the most beautiful of these regions.

47. Madeira, Portugal

Madeira Island is the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” rightfully so. It is a small Portuguese island known for its stunning mountain ranges, cliffs, volcanic lava pools, banana plantations, exotic gardens, waterfalls, Madeira Wine, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

48. Ille-Sur-Têt’s Organs, France

The Organs of Ille-sur-Têt are incredible rock formations and a unique landscape in France. The Organs were chiselled by erosion after being forged by centuries of rain pouring over the sand and clay cliffs.

49. Langjokull Glacier, Iceland

Langjökull is Iceland’s second largest ice cap, after Vatnajökull. It is located in the west of Iceland’s interior, or Highlands, and can be seen clearly from Haukadalur.

50. Positano, Italy

This small village is located along the beautiful Amalfi Coast and is a must-see travel destination. The town is set among the towering mountains of Italy’s coast, with buildings built

Common FAQ’s About Europe

What countries are part of europe.

There are 44 countries that are considered part of Europe, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Russia, and the United Kingdom.

What is the European Union (EU)?

The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 member countries located primarily in Europe. It was established in 1993 to promote economic cooperation and political stability in the region.

What is the currency used in Europe?

The currency used in most European countries is the Euro, although some countries still use their own currency, such as the British pound in the United Kingdom and the Swiss franc in Switzerland.

What is the most spoken language in Europe?

The most spoken language in Europe is Russian, followed by German, Turkish, and English. There are also many other languages spoken throughout Europe, including French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.

What is the climate like in Europe?

The climate in Europe varies greatly depending on the region. Northern Europe generally has a cooler and wetter climate, while southern Europe tends to be warmer and drier. Many parts of Europe experience four distinct seasons.

What are the major religions in Europe?

Christianity is the largest religion in Europe, with the majority of Europeans identifying as Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox Christian. Other religions practiced in Europe include Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism.

What are some famous tourist destinations in Europe?

There are many famous tourist destinations in Europe, including the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Colosseum in Rome, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Acropolis in Athens, and the historic city of Prague.

What are some popular dishes in European cuisine?

European cuisine is diverse and varies greatly by region. Some popular dishes include pizza and pasta in Italy, schnitzel and sausages in Germany, fish and chips in the UK, croissants and cheese in France, and paella in Spain.

What is the history of Europe and its impact on the world?

Europe has a long and complex history that has had a significant impact on the world. European explorers and colonizers played a major role in the Age of Exploration, and European countries have been involved in numerous wars and conflicts throughout history. Europe is also home to many important cultural and artistic movements, including the Renaissance and the Enlightenment.

How do I travel between European countries?

There are many ways to travel between European countries, including by plane, train, bus, or car. The European Union has made it easier to travel between member countries with a common visa policy and the use of the Euro as a common currency.

When planning a trip to Europe, it can be difficult to know which cities and attractions are the best ones to explore. There is so much history and culture to experience across this diverse continent.

Our top 3 European destinations are Paris, Rome and Italy. These cities have plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in exploring world-class museums , dining at renowned restaurants , or simply strolling along the city streets, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in one of these iconic cities .

So if you’re planning a trip to Europe, be sure to add these three to your itinerary!

The 20 Most Visited Cities In The World In 2023 (With Map)
30 Best Places To Visit In The UK As A Foreigner Or Local
30 Best Places To Visit In Italy As A Foreigner Or Local
50 Best Things To Do In London For Visitors And Locals
50 Best Places To Visit In The World For A Once In A Lifetime Experience

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

May 11, 2023 at 5:28 am

There are so many amazing places to visit in Europe. I feel like I’ve visited a lot but there’s still so much more to explore. I’d like to visit more of Spain and Italy.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

50 Best Places to Visit in Asia in 2023 (With Map Of Asia)

Trending now.

Join The Community

Graced Girl is all about empowering young adults like you to live abundantly, intentionally, and, most importantly, confidently.

Join the community today to unlock the secrets to navigating this exciting decade with grace, style, and confidence.

Thanks so much for stopping by! The journey doesn't have to end here. Join our email list and let's be friends on social media!

All Categories
101 Ways To Build Credit
SEO For Beginners
How To Become An Author
Privacy Policy

explore europe in the cooler months
Privacy Policy

Sign up for Newsletter

Signup for our newsletter to get notified about sales and new products. Add any text here or remove it.

Northern Europe
Southern Europe
Western Europe
Eastern Europe

Balkans , Central Europe , Eastern Europe , Northern Europe , Southern Europe , Western Europe

25 best places to visit in europe in december (2023 guide).

Classic postcard view of famous Hallstatt lakeside town in the Alps with traditional passenger ship on a beautiful cold sunny day with blue sky and clouds in winter, Salzkammergut region, Austria

There’s no better place than Europe in December.

Sure, the days might be short and the weather a little on the chilly side (although it’s warmer in the south!), but festive celebrations are in full swing.

Whether you want to embrace the cold weather in Lapland or enjoy both sunny weather and Christmas traditions in the south , there are hundreds of festive destinations to visit.

Plus, December’s the start of the ski season in Europe, with mountain ranges all over Europe – from the Alps to Bulgaria’s Pirin Mountains – welcoming snow-happy tourists in their droves.

Not a fan of the festive season? There are even some destinations where you won’t notice the holiday spirit much, that focus more on nature, winter sunshine or snowsports.

I asked some other travel experts to recommend some of the best places to visit in Europe in December, so whether you fancy a festive break, somewhere snowy or some sunshine, you’ll find it on this list!

Table of Contents

Places to visit in Europe in December for Christmas celebrations

December’s not all about Christmas, but it’s a large part!

Christmas markets fling open their doors at the start of the month (some even at the end of November); cities and towns all over the continent twinkle with fairy lights.

Visit Rovameni to see Santa Claus , or stroll around some of Germany’s best festive markets .

Most major cities in Europe have some sort of winter activity in December; but here are some of the best.

Read on to discover the most Christmassy places to visit in Europe!

1. Rovameni, Finland

Dog sledding through snowy landscapes in Rovameni, Finalnd.

It’s hard to find a destination better suited for December than Rovameni, Finland.

Located in Lapland, the city is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus!

At Santa Claus Village you can meet Santa, explore the Post Office (and mail a postcard – for this year or next!), see his squad of reindeer and enjoy a photo opportunity with the giant snowman!

There are plenty of other things to do in Rovaniemi in the winter: snowmobiling, reindeer sledding, and dog sledding are among some of the best!

Snow is frequent, and temperatures are often well below freezing; you can actually cross the Arctic Circle in Rovameni!

Another reason to visit in December, thanks to the long winter nights, is the high chance to see the Northern Lights (also called Aurora Borealis).

Venture outside the city, away from light pollution, and be amazed by the vibrant colors dancing in the sky.

If Mother Nature allows, you may be able to see them in the city as well.

For an uninterrupted view, consider staying in a glass igloo, which are kitted out with alarms that wake you up if the Northern Lights are visible – and you can see them while warm in bed!

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveller

Festive town of Obidos, Portugal, in December, with festive lighting in the streets.

Portugal might not be the first place you consider when looking for a Christmassy atmosphere – but Óbidos is actually one of the most festive places in Portugal !

Óbidos is a beautiful place to visit all year round, with its Medieval castle walls being the main attraction, along with its cobbled streets and colourful homes.

But the Christmas village is undoubtedly a highlight. With festive decorations, an ice rink and stalls selling hot cocoa, the Christmas Village in Óbidos `Vila Natal` starts annually around the end of November until the first week of January.

There are many activities for children, including the chance to visit Santa!

Portugal still has a pleasant climate in winter, but due to the humidity in Óbidos, it can be blistering cold, so do wrap up.

It won’t snow, but chilly Atlantic winds are possible. Luckily there are plenty of cosy restaurants and places to enjoy a hot drink.

Sitting just an hour’s drive from Lisbon, it’s an ideal side trip from the capital.

Despite the Christmas market, Óbidos is much quieter in winter compared to the high season in summer; so you can enjoy the walled city in peace!

By Marga from Discover Portugal

3. Tallinn, Estonia

Central Market in Tallinn before Christmas with a giant Christmas tree in the middle

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is a fantastic winter destination – especially in December.

In December, the entire city is adorned with Christmas lights and decorations.

The Old Town Square includes a large Christmas market selling traditional handicrafts.

Tallinn even claims to be the birthplace of the Christmas tree tradition – with a large Christmas tree at its center!

December usually sees the first snow in Tallinn, the white-dusted streets and serene rooftops only add more charm to the city’s historic old town – which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

December can be freezing in Tallinn and days are short.

Luckily there are a good number of indoor activities!

You can visit a traditional Estonian sauna, try Estonian food in one of the cozy restaurants or learn more about the country’s intriguing history under Soviet occupation in one of the city’s excellent museums such as the Vabamu museum, the TV tower or the KGB prison cells.

December is a quiet month in Tallinn with fewer tourists around, making prices more budget-friendly than during the peak summer months.

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

4. Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava Castle with a Christmas tree in the foreground

December time in Bratislava is magical, as the festive feeling flows through the Slovakian capital.

The famous Christmas markets should be first on your Bratislava itinerary.

Here you can try local delicacies such as the famous Bryndzové Halušky and Lokse – both are unique potato dishes with different twists.

Bryndzové Halušky is a savoury flavour, however, the Lokse is sweet and usually served with Nutella or honey.

You can’t visit Bratislava without a trip to the castle , an iconic landmark in the city that dates back centuries.

The castle is a prominent feature of the capital, as it overlooks the whole city from its position upon a hill.

Another architectural delight in the city is the Church of St Elizabeth, which is unique due to its bright blue colour and Art Nouveau style design.

Visiting the church makes for a great free activity in Bratislava, and if you are lucky when visiting in December, it may be covered in snow!

By Tom from Tom Henty’s Travel

5. London, England

London, UK - December 30, 2015: Christmas lights decoration at Oxford street and lots of people walking during the Christmas sale, public transport, buses and taxies

London’s a little chilly in December (although nowhere near as much as places further north in Europe!), but it remains a highlight when it comes to festive destinations.

The biggest city in Western Europe, London has an extensive selection of Christmas markets spanning across the city centre and suburbs (there’s even one in Bromley, the commuter-focused suburb I grew up in).

From Southbank to Winter Wonderland, you can virtually hear jingle bells and smell the mulled wine at every step in the British capital!

Light displays are abundant throughout the capital; my favourite is the angels on Regent Street.

If you’re Christmassed-out, there’s plenty more on offer in London too.

London’s a fantastic city for a winter trip , thanks to its plethora of museums – the biggest and best of which are free. That’s right, you can walk around millennia of the earth’s past at the Natural History Museum or go back in British design history at the V&A museum without paying a penny!

Fancy a winter warmer? While British cuisine is typically the laughing stock of Europe, there’s no denying that you can find delicious food in London, largely thanks to its multicultural population.

Whether you’re craving ramen that tastes like it’s from downtown Tokyo or a classic curry – originally from India but that has merged with British flavours over the decades – London definitely delivers when it comes to its food scene.

Outdoor activities, bar walking around Christmas markets and ice skating rinks, aren’t abundant in London itself in December, but there are plenty of winter day trips that you can take from the city to enjoy British nature. I highly recommend the seaside town of Brighton!

6. Hallstatt, Austria

If you’re looking to soak up all the wintertime magic in December, head to Hallstatt, a fairytale town in the Austrian Alps.

The town’s colorful gingerbread houses, perched between pine trees on mountain slopes, look charming year-round – but come December, though, they usually have lights, garland, and even icicles festooning their rafters.

You could spend hours wandering around its Old Town, taking in the stunning views of the adorable old buildings, the turquoise waters of Lake Hallstatt, and the snow-capped Alps.

Beyond its storybook village, there are plenty of things to do in Hallstatt to soak up holiday cheer.

For example, the town throws its own Christmas market on 8th December each year.

You can warm up with a steaming mug of gluhwein; peruse the vendors’ stalls of wooden toys, hand-made ornaments, or cozy mittens; or admire the life-sized nativity set, hand-carved by a local carpentry school.

If you’re travelling with kids or simply want to maximize the Christmas vibes, visit the Hallstatt area the first weekend of Advent.

In the neighboring town of Obertraun, the children of the area gather on the shores of Lake Hallstatt at night, lit up only by candlelight.

Saint Nicholas himself will silently glide out ashore on a wooden boat; hand out small treats for the waiting crowd, like apples and oranges; and recite a Christmas poem.

And, as quickly as he arrived on shore, he’ll slip back into the night, only to be seen again the following December!

By Jessica from Uprooted Traveller

7. Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius winter panorama from Gediminas castle tower. Vilnius. Lithuania

Vilnius, Lithuania is the perfect winter city break for travellers who want to immerse themselves in a true European winter wonderland.

During December, the city is filled with bright holiday energy and festively decorated streets, shops, and restaurants. Coloured lights, Christmas trees, and glittering ornaments are just about everywhere you turn.

There are so many fun things to do in Vilnius , too!

Definitely check out the Vilnius Christmas market, in the center of town, where you can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs, like hand-knit gloves, ornaments, wooden toys, and amber jewels.

The weather in winter can be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping down to the single digits. And, beware – the sun will set as early as 4pm on some winter days.

However, the wintery chill and snow add an enchanting touch to the already charming city!

If it snows, you could try sledge riding down the Hill of Three Crosses!

Despite being less crowded at this time of year, Vilnius is anything but dull. The chill in the air, the snowfall, and the festive decorations and music make it all feel like a fairy tale.

By Monica from This Rare Earth

8. Lugano, Switzerland

For a stunning but small location to visit in December in Europe, Lugano in Switzerland, located in the Ticino canton, could be your next destination!

Although it snows a lot in Swiss winter , don’t expect snowman-building weather here.

Lugano can have a sprinkle of snow but mostly it’s just a little cold and sunny combined, making it great for a winter trip with sunshine!

During December, Lugano hosts a local Christmas market right in the city centre that has numerous stands selling local treats, festive drinks and wintery decorations/souvenirs.

Many cafes and restaurants also provide blankets and heaters to keep you warm while visiting.

When not visiting the Christmas markets and city, there are other local highlights , including a funicular to the top of Monte Brè for some wintery city scenery from above. The viewpoint is stunning and reachable for all.

Alternatively, book a visit to a local spa, such as at Villa Sassa, for some well-deserved chill time.

Need to refuel after all that exploring? Don’t miss the highly-rated pizzeria Acqua e Farina . It’s such a great place for pizza that even locals find it hard to choose just one from the menu!

By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

9. Dusseldorf, Germany

Dusseldorf at Christmas, with brightly lit up carousel

With plenty of winter charm and festivities, it’s worth visiting Düsseldorf in December.

Renowned as the fashion capital of Germany, Dusseldorf is a vibrant and modern city, while still retaining its historical charm.

The modern and unique architecture stand in contrast to the 18th-century buildings, and are a highlight to see anytime of the year.

And while it doesn’t boast warm temperatures, Dusseldorf’s chilly climate adds to the festive atmosphere.

The Christmas Markets that are found throughout the city offer a variety of handcrafted gifts, delicious seasonal treats, and of course, mulled wine to sip.

With seven Christmas markets spread throughout the city, there are plenty of options to shop for that perfect gift and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Or head to Königsallee Boulevard, known as Kö to the locals, which is the city’s upscale shopping street. Here you’ll find designer boutiques, luxury brands and well-known shops.

Also worth visiting are Dusseldorf’s numerous museums, which offer a chance to escape from the weather and warm up indoors.

The Kunstpalast Museum boasts an impressive collection of classical and contemporary works, while the NRW Forum showcases experimental art and multimedia installations.

What makes Dusseldorf a great place to visit in December, is its perfect balance of holiday spirit without the overwhelming crowds found in larger cities.

By Erin from Wanderlust with Kids

10. Prague, Czechia

The beautiful Christmas tree and Tyn Church in the Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic.

Prague is dreamy as it is, but it becomes all the more enchanting during the holiday season, perhaps with the first dusting of snow.

Prague is pretty cold during December and snowfall gradually increases towards the end of the month.

The temperatures range between -3 to 2 degrees Celsius – but don’t worry, the festive air will keep you warm!

December is a month of celebration – yet the city is not as crowded as it is during the peak summer season.

Visit the Czech capital city in December to experience these celebrations, not as many tourists (although it is one of the most renowned European cities for its Christmas markets) and lower prices.

Keep in mind that the prices do tend to go higher as Christmas approaches, so try to book in advance if you’re visiting later in December.

While you’re exploring the stunning city, don’t miss Prague Castle.

Home to the president of the Czech Republic, it has been the residence of several monarchs in the past.

It is one of the most impressive buildings in the Czech Republic and also has a lot of cultural and historical importance.

Also, don’t miss the many other beautiful and unique Prague monuments – the city has a ton of quirky architecture!

Don’t miss the Charles Bridge – every day in December, a lamp lighter dressed in historical clothes, lights the gas lamps on this bridge manually!

Then there are the enchanting Christmas markets in Prague.

These markets are filled with wooden toys, souvenirs, delicious food, winter clothing and much more.

The Old Town Square has some of the biggest Christmas markets with various musicians lighting up the atmosphere with their performances.

Try “Trdelnik”, a delicious pastry which you can find in any of the Christmas markets or “Svařák” a popular mulled wine.

Staying in Prague until New Year’s Eve? Good idea! It’s a popular destination right at the end of the year, with some incredible fireworks. You could even book a boat ride to watch the fireworks from the water!

By Lavina D’Souza from Continent Hop

11. Luxembourg

LUXEMBOURG CITY / DECEMBER 2019: Celebrating the Christmas time in the city

December in Luxembourg? Expect fewer tourists and a winter wonderland awaiting your arrival.

The month brings with it a shimmering blanket of snow, making Luxembourg a top contender for your European winter escape.

Dive into charming Christmas markets, where you’ll find festive magic minus the dense crowds.

While Luxembourg may be small in size, its offerings are vast and varied. Winter unveils affordable thrills—think exhilarating hikes, ice-skating, and scenic bike tours. Join the locals at Guillaume II’s ice rink, a winter favorite.

For a sprinkle of festive charm, meander through the Christmas markets. Iconic festive spots include Place De La Constitution and Place De Paris. And while you’re at it, treat your taste buds to traditional delights—smoked pork with beans and crispy potato fritters stand out.

No trip would be complete without a journey to the iconic Vianden Castle, where history and impressive architecture intertwine.

Wondering where to stay in Luxembourg ? Consider Mama Shelter Luxembourg for a mid-range cost or Hotel Le Place d’Armes for luxurious a choice.

By Paulina from Paulina on the Road

12. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe to visit in December.

The entire city becomes a fairytale, dressed in festive lights, decorated with baubles and tinsel and filled with wonderful Christmas markets.

The main attractions in December in the Austrian Capital are the Christmas Markets.

There are several big ones, located in front of the town hall, in the courtyard of Schonbrunn Palace, in front of Karl’s Church or at the Belvedere Palace, but also many small stalls which sell Mulled Wine all over the city.

In the markets, you’ll find many different traditional Austrian Christmas foods, as well as plenty of beautiful handmade decorations for the tree.

The main Christmas market, in front of the city hall, also features a large ice rink, where you can ice skate between giant decorations.

This is even more special at night when the lights in the trees surrounding it are all lit.

The weather in December in Vienna is generally very cold, so make sure to wear layers and thermals – especially if you want to spend time walking around the Christmas markets!

Snow and temperatures under 0 degrees are normal for this time of the year as well.

Need to warm up? Head to the smaller churches around the city centre – in the evenings they often host carol concerts!

By Joanna from The World in my Pocket

Skiing destinations in Europe in December

The ski season begins in December in Europe ( sometimes as early as November in the Alps ) and resorts all over France, Switzerland, Austria, Bulgaria and even Spain throw open their doors.

There are hundreds of skiing destinations in Europe; but here are some of the best that you might want to visit for festive cheer and plenty of snow!

13. Bansko, Bulgaria

Wooden chalet, houses and snow mountains landscape panorama in bulgarian ski resort Bansko, Bulgaria

December is the wake-up month for Bansko, Bulgaria . As the chance of snow increases, Bansko comes alive!

The ski season usually starts around 15th December – when the whole town kicks into high gear.

Nestled in the UNESCO heritage site of the Pirin mountains, Bansko is not only a fabulous ski resort but a well-preserved ethnographic Bulgarian town.

As you walk down the cobblestone streets, you’ll be enchanted by the 19th-century stone churches, authentic houses and inns from the Revival period of Bulgaria, and of course traditional mehanas ready to fill your belly with delicious Banska Kapama (sauerkraut and various types of meat cooked for hours in a clay pot).

Don’t forget the world-renowned wine!

If you come in the second half of December, chances are you’re going to ski.

With 15 ski lifts and over 75 km of slopes, Bansko is the best place for winter sports in Bulgaria; some of the lifts go as far up as 2530 m.

That’s right, when it comes to skiing, Bansko gives the Alps a run for their money!

By Simon from Backpack Moments

14. Morskie Oko, Poland

Winter Mountain landscape of Morskie oko in Tatra national park at sunrise. Icy Sea Eye lake in Tatra mountains

If you want a winter hike while visiting Europe in December, Morskie Oko , located in the stunning Tatra Mountains in Poland, is highly recommended!

Morskie Oko, sitting in the mountains, is much colder than other destinations in December, with heavy snowfall being likely.

Due to this, the area won’t be too crowded – and while winter hiking is great fun, it’s advisable to walk with a guide.

There are some fantastic things to do in the area around Morskie Oko, too.

Visit Zakopane , the Winter Capital of Poland and enjoy skiing, snowshoeing and snowboarding!

Since Morskie Oko is remote, you might have to take multiple modes of transportation to reach it.

From Krakow, take a train or bus to Zakopane.

From Zakopane, take a public bus to Palenica Białczańska.

By Reshma from The Solo Globetrotter

15. Val d’Aran, Spain

High in the Pyrenees mountains (around a six-hour drive from Barcelona) sits the Val d’Aran, a beautiful area of Spain with a very rich culture.

Val d’Aran centres around Vielha, a (very) small city. In December, it’s one of the few places in Spain where you’re highly likely to find a blanket of snow!

We visited Vielha in December a few years back and loved the ski-town atmosphere that it had. From Vielha, you can take a bus to Baqueira Beret, the biggest ski resort in Spain (lots of people stay in Vielha for a skiing holiday).

We also took a bus up to Les, which is right by the French border, and spent a dreamy afternoon at their spa – they have an outdoor hot tub which is surrounded by snow-dusted mountains.

Buses also run around the other villages; we visited Bagergue, a sleepy village with beautiful architecture and a high-altitude cheese factory (Hormatges Tarrau).

One of the most interesting things about Val d’Aran is that, despite being part of Catalan and speaking Catalan, they actually have their own language, Aranese. Many people we met in the region spoke five languages: Aranese, Catalan, Spanish, English and French (due to their proximity to the border!).

Definitely listen out for this while you’re there (the people at the tourist office are very friendly and happy to answer any questions) and also, don’t forget to try pinchos , traditional local bar snacks!

16. Mayrhofen, Austria

With over 60 cable cars and chairlifts, Mayrhofen in Zillertal is a hidden gem of winter skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, snowshoeing and high-altitude Spritz drinkers.

Beyond the impossibly cute alpine village draped in lights, I love this area because it’s at the end of a very long valley that most people skip and it feels much more local than the famous Austrian ski towns.

Plus, the steepest groomed slope in Austria is here. It’s called Harakiri and it’s got a 78% gradient! (Not for me!)

I love visiting Mayrhofen in summer , but December is special because of the variety of things to do and the guarantee of snow on the Hintertux glacier.

Too many times I’ve planned a December mountain trip to be greeted with slushy pistes and only a few runs open.

The Mountopolis ski area offers gentle things like winter walks with amazing views for skiers and non-skiiers alike!

My top three things to do include skiing and snowboarding, visiting the Nature’s Ice Palace and taking the kids to the indoor heated Mayrhofen Adventure pool with slides and jacuzzis.

The Ice Palace takes about an hour but you literally ride a boat through an underground cave of ice. You can take a private tour or go stand-up paddleboarding also.

By Morgan Fielder from Crave the Planet

17. Gudauri, Georgia

If you want less crowded and off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Europe in December, consider Gudauri ski resort in Georgia. With its location against the backdrop of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, Gudauri is one of the most unique places to visit in Georgia during winter!

The resort, at an elevation of 2,200 meters above sea level, basks in abundant sunlight, and its slopes extend beyond the tree line – the slopes are actually ideal for free riders and extreme sports enthusiasts.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Gudauri offers tobogganing, paragliding, and helicopter tours. Gudauri is conveniently located close to Tbilisi, the capital (around 2 hours by car).

The driving route leads along the Georgian Military Highway- you can stop to see several landmarks along the way, including the Ananuri Fortress and Georgia-Russia Friendship Monument. Reaching Gudauri is viable via public transport from Tbilisi’s Didube Bus Station, renting a car, or arranging a direct transfer from Tbilisi Airport through a travel agency.

By Baia from Red Fedora Diary

18. Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken in Switzerland, kayaking on the water and surrounded by mountains.

Looking for the best places to visit in Europe during December? Look no further than Interlaken, Switzerland!

Well known to the world’s population of adrenaline junkies, Interlaken is a charming city situated between two crystal clear lakes – Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

Its stunning alpine scenery makes it one of the top destinations to visit year-round, but it especially shines in December!

Picture a thick, glittering blanket of snow covering charming Swiss chalets, picturesque churches and antique streetlights – framed on all sides by towering, snow-capped mountains.

Add a piping hot mug of hot Swiss chocolate…and you’ve got the picture of Interlaken, Switzerland in December.

There are many things to do in Interlaken in December, but the number one attraction in this Swiss mountain town is hitting the slopes.

Be warned however, if you’re not a strong skier, it’s recommended to sign up for some lessons from an expert. The slopes of the Swiss Alps are not for the fainthearted!

If skiing isn’t your strong suit, don’t fret – Interlaken has tons of exciting activities to enjoy during December.

Gear up for a winter kayaking excursion (pictured below), get ready for adventure while night tobogganing down the alps, or stay nice and cozy inside for a chocolate-making class by Funky Chocolate.

In Interlaken in December, the possibilities are endless!

By Madison from Madison’s Footsteps

Winter sun in December in Europe

If you’re craving more mild temperatures, head south!

These European destinations still have festive traditions, but they’re also often warm enough to walk around in a light jacket – or maybe even a t-shirt if you’re really lucky!

From Spain to Greece, here are Europe’s best winter sun destinations.

19. Valencia, Spain

Valencia, Spain - Dec 16, 2017: People having fun in christmas spirit on Christmas fair with carousel on Modernisme plaza of the city hall of Valencia on 16th of December, 2017 in Valencia, Spain.

Fancy visiting somewhere festive, but still with a chance of sunshine? Head to Valencia in December!

As winter settles in most parts of Europe, average temperatures in Valencia range from 8 to 17ºC.

This makes it an ideal escape from the harsh winter climates found elsewhere on the continent!

During December, Valencia comes alive with twinkling lights, charming Christmas markets and beautifully decorated streets.

Christmas in Valencia is a big deal – and locals celebrate it by meeting up with friends and family in cafés throughout the whole month of December.

The iconic Plaza del Ayuntamiento hosts a grand Christmas tree, an ice rink and the New Year’s Eve party.

One place you cannot miss is the City of Arts and Sciences.

This futuristic architectural complex is a must-visit sight in Valencia any time of the year, but during December, it also hosts the best Christmas market in town.

If you want to do Christmas shopping, stroll through the historic Old Town.

Visit the famous Central Market for delicious local delicacies, and admire Valencia Cathedral and other architecture along the way.

Also, indulge in the local cuisine with every chance you get!

December is an excellent time to savour traditional dishes, such as churros, buñuelos, and candied almonds.

By Lara from Valencia Revealed

20. Barcelona, Spain

While Barcelona won’t be as hot as, say, Malaga in December , it still basks in warm weather and remains an inviting city to visit at the end of the year!

It’s an underrated Christmas market destination , with multiple across the city – the most famous being the Market of Saint Lucia, which has a history spanning back to the 18th century and is located in front of Barcelona Cathedral.

Do learn about Caga Tió , the Catalan log that poops candy at Christmas, while you’re in the markets – it’s a tradition unique to the area!

Sunshine is common in Barcelona in December, and Gaudi’s fabled architecture glimmers under the low-lying light.

You might not be able to laze back on Barceloneta Beach, but you’ll definitely enjoy walking along it, perhaps taking in a beautiful winter sunrise!

And, if you’re feeling particularly brave, you could take a quick dip in the Med; it’ll be chilly, but it’s much warmer than the sea in the north. The air temperature is usually mild and it hardly ever snows !

While there are plenty of festive things to do in Spain’s second-largest city, this is actually Barcelona’s low season. In the summer, the city buzzes with tourists; you can expect long queues at popular attractions and high prices for accommodation and flights.

But in the winter, Barcelona has an entirely different vibe; more intimate and exclusive. Most attractions are still open, and while beach clubs may be closed, you can guarantee that you’ll still be able to locate some fantastic (local!) tapas and Spanish wine.

If you want to experience Barcelona more as the locals do, December’s a fantastic time to visit!

21. Alacati, Turkey

Windmills in Alcati, with bright blue skies

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Europe in December, then Alacati on the Aegean Coast of Turkey is a great choice.

Alacati is a beautiful Greek town located on the Turkish Riviera.

Established by Ottoman Greeks in the 17 th century, Alacati is known for its unique stone villas, a medieval marketplace, a church-turned-mosque, narrow, meandering streets dotted with boutiques, cafes, and artisan shops, and of course stunning beaches.

The historic Cesme Castle is not very far away.

One of Alacati’s must-visit attractions is the windmill park which has four massive windmills dating to the 1800s.

Even though the windmills are non-functional today, the park provides sweeping views of the Turkish countryside.

December is a good time to visit Alacati because it is the low season everywhere on the Turkish coast.

That means it is a great time to grab some good deals on accommodation and tours. Further, you’ll find Alacati’s attractions literally empty.

Days in December are sunny and average temperatures range between around 8°C – 14°C – never too cold ( it snows in parts of Turkey, but not this area on the coast), which means you can spend lots of time outdoors! There may be some rain, so be sure to pack a rain jacket.

By Soumya from Stories by Soumya

22. Lanzarote

Cactus garden in Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

Looking for a sunny December vacation, that’s not too expensive, with delicious food and wine?

Then check out Lanzarote !

Lanzarote is the Spanish Canary Islands, an Atlantic Ocean archipelago.

In the winter season , the barometer still sits at a mild 20°C most days – so it’s usually still beach weather!

The most famous beaches are Playa de Famara, Playa de Papagayo, Playa Flamingo, Playa Chica, and Playa de las Conchas.

These beaches have gold sand and crystal clear water to relax, read a novel and have lunch at a nearby local restaurant. A huge mistake when visiting Spain is not trying the local food – and the Canary Islands are no exception.

Be sure to taste the Papas Arrugadas, local small potatoes served with Mojo Sauce.

The Estofado is a local stew made with beef, chorizo, chickpeas, and veggies.

Or, try Puntillas de Calamar, fried baby squid.

There’s also a local sweet wine called Malmsey, made from the Malvasia grape variety grown on the island on the volcanic soil. On a Sunday, don’t miss the Teguise Market, a charming town in the middle of the island where to buy the best local products like handmade wooden items and local food.

The Aloe museum, where to learn everything about the aloe vera in Lanzarote and purchase some of the best natural products, is also worth a visit.

By Valentina from Valentina’s Travel Guide

23. Fethiye, Turkey

Fethiye Turkey, panorama landscape from a vantage point.

Fethiye is a great place to visit in December for a sunny winter getaway.

The weather is still relatively warm, with average temperatures around 17°C – so it’s not uncommon to see people sunbathing or taking long beach ways along the city’s Calis Beach!

Despite the heat, there’s still the sprawling Fethiye Christmas Fair.

This is set up along the beach promenade where you can shop, eat and drink to your heart’s content.

Make sure to try the domuz degil sausage, gozleme and mulled wine.

You won’t find any snow in Fethiye during December, so you can still hike and sightsee outdoors.

Visit the Amyntas Rock Tombs, stroll through the ancient ruins of Lycian City, or take to the skies on a paragliding adventure.

One of the most popular things to do in Fethiye is to take a day trip to Oludeniz Beach, a famous white-sand stretch just down the coastline.

You can take a guided tour or drive there – car hire in Turkey is generally very affordable.

Fethiye is also much less crowded in December with beachgoers sticking to the hot months of June to August. This also allows for cheaper all-around trip costs including accommodation, food and travel.

By Haley from Haley Blackall Travel

24. Ksamil, Albania

Ksamil, Albania, bright blue water and golden sands

Located in southern Albania, Ksamil is home to some of the best beaches in Albania and has incredible views of nearby islands.

It is an ideal place for December if you’re looking for warmer weather, relaxing activities, and reduced costs.

While December isn’t by any means hot , it’s much milder than most other places in Europe .

In December, Ksamil experiences a high of around 15°C and a low of 8°C.

This makes it among some of the warmest places in Europe during the month!

During and around Christmas, you’ll see decorations and locals preparing celebrations. There are also festivities for New Year’s Eve, including fireworks and live entertainment.

With Albania’s peak season being in July and August, the low season occurs in December, resulting in several benefits.

The two most notable are the less expensive accommodation costs and crowds.

One of the best things to do in Ksamil in December is visit its Four Islands.

These individual islands are located right off the coast of Ksamil and are one of the most popular activities. They are easily accessible by boat, and you can even visit each one in just one day!

Also, don’t miss the excellent beaches in Ksamil, such as Plazhi Ksamilit and Lori Beach.

In December, you’ll have more freedom to explore to the decreased crowds.

While it may be cooler, you can still enjoy walking on the beach – some hardy souls even swim in the sea in December!

Ksamil has several great bars and restaurants, including Blue Water and Bar One – and the nightlife is still decent in December!

By Tamara from My Elated Odyssey

25. Saturnia, Italy

Saturnia is one of my favourite places on this planet.

It has delicious food, excellent year-round weather, and incredible landscapes.

In winter, it’s truly spectacular. While it’s cooler than other winter sun destinations on this list, mild days are possible, and the summer crowds leave a certain serenity, and the golden and silver colours of the pools reflect against the sky.

There are plenty of appeals to Saturnia, including its beautiful little restaurants, quaint wine bars, vineyards, and admire incredible landscapes. But if you want something truly special and unusual, why not dive into one of the many thermal springs in the region?

As the weather turns colder, the hot waters gushing from geothermal waterfalls become all the more inviting.

Although not widely known among tourists, Tuscany has plenty of hot springs.

The signs up and down the highway direct you to local thermal springs – look for the word ‘Terme,’ which translates to ‘thermal.’

Before to long, you’ll be sitting in a warm, natural bath outside in the winter, surrounded by tall cypress trees, while a waterfall spouts out warm geothermal water.

Quite frankly, it’s one of the most unusual and beautiful experiences, and it’s a bucket list experience!

In the winter, it’s much quieter and cheaper. In the summer it is packed with tourists! The most famous thermal spring in the region is Terme di Saturnia in the region of Saturnia. I

t’s the most Instagrammable, photogenic place, but as this one is the most famous, it can get very popular throughout the winter months!

Renting a car and exploring the area is very easy; it’s stunningly beautiful… you won’t regret it!

By Adriana from Wanderlicious

FAQs about visiting Europe in December

Is December a good time to visit Europe?

Certainly! While Europe in December means colder weather in most regions, it also brings festive atmospheres, Christmas markets, and fewer tourists.

Plus, if winter sports are your thing, Europe’s ski destinations are at their prime.

Where is nice to travel in Europe in December?

Europe offers myriad destinations in December.

You’d love the festive vibe of cities like Vienna, Prague, and Strasbourg with their renowned Christmas markets.

If snow-covered landscapes are your preference, the Alps are a dreamy choice.

Where is still warm in Europe in December?

Looking for a milder climate in December? Your best bets are the southern parts of Europe. Places like the Canary Islands, Southern Spain, Malta , and Cyprus offer relatively warmer weather.

Where is the best place to visit in December?

The “best” place is subjective, depending on your preferences.

For a winter wonderland, think of the Alps.

If you’re chasing festive vibes, Vienna or Munich are hard to beat. For milder weather, the Canary Islands offer a respite from the cold.

Is Greece warm in December?

Greece in December is milder than northern Europe but isn’t exactly beach weather.

You can expect temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C, with the islands being cooler.

Is Greece nice in December?

Absolutely. While Greece may not offer beach days in December, its mild weather, fewer tourists, and a more relaxed vibe make it a unique time to explore ancient ruins, enjoy local cuisine, and experience authentic Greek culture.

What is Portugal like in December?

Portugal in December tends to be mild, especially in the south. Lisbon and the Algarve region experience temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C.

While you might face some rainy days, it’s an excellent time to enjoy Portugal without the tourist rush.

Is December a good time to visit Spain?

Yes, December is a great time to visit Spain, especially if you prefer fewer crowds. While Northern Spain can be chilly, regions like Andalusia remain milder. Spain’s festive decorations and holiday celebrations are an added bonus.

What is the warmest place to travel in December?

In Europe, the warmest spots in December include the Canary Islands, Malta, Cyprus, and certain parts of Southern Spain, like the Costa del Sol.

Where is the prettiest place to spend Christmas?

Europe boasts numerous beautiful Christmas destinations. Strasbourg in France claims the title of “Christmas Capital,” with its enchanting markets. Other contenders are Rothenburg in Germany, Rovaniemi in Finland (Santa’s hometown), and Tallinn in Estonia with its medieval charm.

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Love Exploring

59 European Places You NEED To Visit In Your Lifetime

Posted: December 15, 2023 | Last updated: December 15, 2023

<p>For such a small continent, Europe certainly punches above its weight. There are countless things to see, do, eat, learn and admire here – from historic neighborhoods to natural wonders. Read on to discover 59 European places you should definitely add to your bucket list.</p>

Europe's unmissable sights

For such a small continent, Europe certainly punches above its weight. There are countless things to see, do, eat, learn and admire here – from historic neighborhoods to natural wonders. Read on to discover 59 European places you should definitely add to your bucket list.

<p>Svalbard is the final frontier before the North Pole and one of the world's northernmost inhabited areas. A place of dramatic landscapes, it’s perfect for observing the mesmerizing Northern Lights throughout winter, while summers bring perennial sunlight. As one of Europe’s last true wildernesses, it’s also great for spotting Arctic foxes and polar bears.</p>

Go on a polar adventure in Svalbard, Norway

Svalbard is the final frontier before the North Pole and one of the world's northernmost inhabited areas. A place of dramatic landscapes, it’s perfect for observing the mesmerizing Northern Lights throughout winter, while summers bring perennial sunlight. As one of Europe’s last true wildernesses, it’s also great for spotting Arctic foxes and polar bears.

<p>Located in Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle, the Santa Claus Village is the “official residence” of Santa and his helpers. Visit the post office and write your wishlist, or stop by the Santa Claus office to meet the mythical man himself. With its Christmassy shops, snow hotel and a year-round festive atmosphere, even adults will believe in the magic.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/117580/frozen-in-time-the-arctic-circles-creepiest-town">This is the fascinating story of Pyramiden, the Arctic Circle's creepiest ghost town</a></strong></p>

Visit Santa Claus Village in Lapland, Finland

Located in Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle, the Santa Claus Village is the “official residence” of Santa and his helpers. Visit the post office and write your wishlist, or stop by the Santa Claus office to meet the mythical man himself. With its Christmassy shops, snow hotel and a year-round festive atmosphere, even adults will believe in the magic.

<p>More than 300 castles are dotted throughout the Loire Valley, and many of them are open to the public. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the most exquisite: the 16th-century Chateau de Chenonceau. If you come to this picturesque region during the summer, you'll catch the captivating sound-and-light shows put on at many of the chateaux.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://rebrand.ly/loveexploringuk-facebook">Love this? Follow us on Facebook for more travel inspiration</a></strong></p>

See the chateaux of the Loire, France

More than 300 castles are dotted throughout the Loire Valley, and many of them are open to the public. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the most exquisite: the 16th-century Chateau de Chenonceau. If you come to this picturesque region during the summer, you'll catch the captivating sound-and-light shows put on at many of the chateaux.

<p>Lace up your hiking boots and discover how the beauty of the Lake District – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – inspired William Wordsworth to write his sublime poetry. Follow in the footsteps of Alfred Wainwright, the intrepid hiker whose <em>Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells</em> is still required reading more than 70 years after he first started writing it. Whether you walk his <a href="http://www.wainwrightroutes.co.uk">signature routes</a> or blaze your own trail, the majesty of the Cumbrian countryside won't fail to blow you away. Don't miss Bassenthwaite, Wastwater and Derwentwater, some of the prettiest lakes in the national park.</p>

Hike in England’s Lake District, UK

Lace up your hiking boots and discover how the beauty of the Lake District – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – inspired William Wordsworth to write his sublime poetry. Follow in the footsteps of Alfred Wainwright, the intrepid hiker whose Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells is still required reading more than 70 years after he first started writing it. Whether you walk his signature routes or blaze your own trail, the majesty of the Cumbrian countryside won't fail to blow you away. Don't miss Bassenthwaite, Wastwater and Derwentwater, some of the prettiest lakes in the national park.

<p>Looming high above one of Europe’s smallest countries, the Three Towers are located on a trio of Monte Titano's peaks and used to serve as fortification during medieval times. Today only two towers are open to the public; when you reach the top of the highest tower, the Guaita fortress, you’ll be enchanted by sweeping views in all directions. San Marino is surrounded entirely by Italy and doesn't have its own airport or train station, so the Italian city of Rimini is your gateway to this elusive microstate.</p>

Climb the Three Towers in San Marino

Looming high above one of Europe’s smallest countries, the Three Towers are located on a trio of Monte Titano's peaks and used to serve as fortification during medieval times. Today only two towers are open to the public; when you reach the top of the highest tower, the Guaita fortress, you’ll be enchanted by sweeping views in all directions. San Marino is surrounded entirely by Italy and doesn't have its own airport or train station, so the Italian city of Rimini is your gateway to this elusive microstate.

<p>For an unforgettable road trip, tackle some or part of the 828 miles that make up Iceland’s Ring Road. Leave at least 10 days to get to know some of the country’s most scenic spots. You'll go right past the huge blue-and-white expanse of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, as well as the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, whose thundering cascade you can walk behind – just remember to pack your waterproofs.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/68328/amazing-american-road-trips-you-might-not-know">More road-tripping inspiration: the best American road trips you've never heard of</a></strong></p>

Take a road trip in Iceland

For an unforgettable road trip, tackle some or part of the 828 miles that make up Iceland’s Ring Road. Leave at least 10 days to get to know some of the country’s most scenic spots. You'll go right past the huge blue-and-white expanse of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, as well as the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, whose thundering cascade you can walk behind – just remember to pack your waterproofs.

<p>For a break from the beach crowds along the Costa del Sol, head into the mountainous countryside of Andalucia. Take a tour of the interior’s white villages, called pueblos blancos. One of the prettiest is Zahara de la Sierra, which overlooks a giant reservoir and features the remains of a Moorish fortress clinging to the mountainside.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/197552/spains-most-beautiful-small-towns-and-villages">Explore more of Spain's most beautiful small towns and villages</a></strong></p>

Explore Andalucia's white villages, Spain

For a break from the beach crowds along the Costa del Sol, head into the mountainous countryside of Andalucia. Take a tour of the interior’s white villages, called pueblos blancos. One of the prettiest is Zahara de la Sierra, which overlooks a giant reservoir and features the remains of a Moorish fortress clinging to the mountainside.

<p>Fans of Sweden’s most famous musical exports can find out how Agnetha, Anni-Frid, Bjorn and Benny rose to fame in this fun museum. Listen to the fab foursome's memories of how they put Swedish pop music on the map, and see how you would look in their fantastically spangly costumes. Singing and dancing aren’t obligatory, but hard to avoid.</p>

Get musical in ABBA the Museum, Stockholm, Sweden

Fans of Sweden’s most famous musical exports can find out how Agnetha, Anni-Frid, Bjorn and Benny rose to fame in this fun museum. Listen to the fab foursome's memories of how they put Swedish pop music on the map, and see how you would look in their fantastically spangly costumes. Singing and dancing aren’t obligatory, but hard to avoid.

Europe really can’t complain about a lack of ski resorts. However, with great slopes comes a great number of skiers. Grandvalira in Andorra’s Pyrenees is the perfect mountain paradise to enjoy a day on powdery snow without the crowds. The area is also known for excellent après-ski bars and restaurants.

Hit the slopes in Grandvalira, Andorra

<p>Originating from the Caucasus mountain regions, khinkali are filled dumplings that you’ll find in every traditional Georgian kitchen. Most commonly they’re filled with a mix of spiced beef and pork mince with fried onions, but the fillings can range from mushrooms to various combinations of different vegetables. You'll find some of the best in Georgia's capital Tbilisi, at joints like Cafe Daphna and Amo Rame Bani. Eat the khinkali with your hands and try to slurp up the hearty broth inside without spilling a drop.</p>

Feast on khinkali in Tbilisi, Georgia

Originating from the Caucasus mountain regions, khinkali are filled dumplings that you’ll find in every traditional Georgian kitchen. Most commonly they’re filled with a mix of spiced beef and pork mince with fried onions, but the fillings can range from mushrooms to various combinations of different vegetables. You'll find some of the best in Georgia's capital Tbilisi, at joints like Cafe Daphna and Amo Rame Bani. Eat the khinkali with your hands and try to slurp up the hearty broth inside without spilling a drop.

<p>Pull up a green chair and chill out in one of <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/64347/what-to-do-in-paris-guide">Paris</a>’ most elegant green spaces. Kids will love racing toy boats on the ornamental pond in front of the 17th-century Luxembourg Palace. Stroll through woods and past elaborate fountains and elegant statues. Play a round of tennis if you're feeling active – if not, exercise the brain with a game of chess.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/news/141418/astounding-royal-residences-you-can-actually-visit">You can actually visit these stunning royal residences</a></strong></p>

Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens of Paris, France

Pull up a green chair and chill out in one of Paris ’ most elegant green spaces. Kids will love racing toy boats on the ornamental pond in front of the 17th-century Luxembourg Palace. Stroll through woods and past elaborate fountains and elegant statues. Play a round of tennis if you're feeling active – if not, exercise the brain with a game of chess.

<p>Portugal’s capital has an enchanting old town, filled with cobbled streets and vintage trams that trundle through its historic quarter. <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/69830/what-to-do-in-lisbon-tourist-attractions">Lisbon</a>’s layout harks back to its Moorish past, with narrow lanes and twisting alleyways. The old town is one of the liveliest parts of the city, with plenty of restaurants and bars where you can listen to the haunting sounds of fado, Portugal's Unesco-inscribed traditional music.</p>

Visit Lisbon’s Bairro Alto, Portugal

Portugal’s capital has an enchanting old town, filled with cobbled streets and vintage trams that trundle through its historic quarter. Lisbon ’s layout harks back to its Moorish past, with narrow lanes and twisting alleyways. The old town is one of the liveliest parts of the city, with plenty of restaurants and bars where you can listen to the haunting sounds of fado, Portugal's Unesco-inscribed traditional music.

If you’re craving panoramic views and a spot of light exercise off the beaten path, take on the Princes’ Way in the Ratikon Mountains of Liechtenstein. Starting at an altitude of over 4,500 feet, the hike is just under four miles long and offers beautiful views of the valleys and mountains of the tiny country of Liechtenstein.

Hike along the Princes’ Way, Liechtenstein

<p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/64536/explore-rome-what-to-do-where-to-eat-and-sleep">Rome</a> is full of ruins, but the wondrous construction that is the Pantheon has been standing intact since AD 128. You can’t help but marvel at the coffered dome and its oculus that lets the light (and rain) in. It's one of Rome's most beautiful buildings, having started life as a Roman temple before becoming a Catholic basilica. As of July 2023, you have to pay for a ticket to peek inside – look out for the tombs of two Italian kings, Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/news/70876/littleknown-incredible-roman-ruins-around-the-world">Check out these little-known Roman ruins around the world</a></strong></p>

Visit Rome's Pantheon, Italy

Rome is full of ruins, but the wondrous construction that is the Pantheon has been standing intact since AD 128. You can’t help but marvel at the coffered dome and its oculus that lets the light (and rain) in. It's one of Rome's most beautiful buildings, having started life as a Roman temple before becoming a Catholic basilica. As of July 2023, you have to pay for a ticket to peek inside – look out for the tombs of two Italian kings, Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.

<p>Norway’s second-largest city is in a breathtaking location surrounded by seven towering mountains and impossibly deep fjords. Stroll along Bergen's old wharf past brightly colored wooden houses, and hop on a ferry for a tour of the fjords. A visit to the fish market will whet your appetite for fresh seafood in the city's waterside restaurants.</p>

Explore Bergen, Norway

Norway’s second-largest city is in a breathtaking location surrounded by seven towering mountains and impossibly deep fjords. Stroll along Bergen's old wharf past brightly colored wooden houses, and hop on a ferry for a tour of the fjords. A visit to the fish market will whet your appetite for fresh seafood in the city's waterside restaurants.

You don’t have to go far to find traditional Irish music in Galway’s pubs. This lively city tucked into Ireland’s west coast has plenty of places for a musical night out. Taaffes Bar is one of the most popular, with two sessions of traditional music each evening. Order a pint of Guinness and listen to the sounds of fiddles, tin whistles, and bodhran drums.

Listen to live music in Galway, Ireland

This elaborate amusement park in Copenhagen has been entertaining people of all ages since 1843. Old meets new: you’ll find a roller coaster from 1914 alongside scream-inducing The Demon with its three exhilarating loops. Discover the park's cultural side by taking in a ballet performance or watching a pop concert.

Take a ride in Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens, Denmark

<p>You’ll find some of Portugal’s best beaches along this western strip of the Atlantic coast. Look out for Praia do Martinhal, one of the region’s most appealing beaches. It's one of the gentlest, as it's sheltered from the full force of the Atlantic's waves by the promontory at Sagres. It's only 90 minutes from the nearest airport at Faro, but it's a world away from the busier resorts of the eastern Algarve.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/65962/things-to-do-on-the-worlds-best-beaches">Here's what you can do on the world's most beautiful beaches</a></strong></p>

Flop on western Algarve beaches, Portugal

You’ll find some of Portugal’s best beaches along this western strip of the Atlantic coast. Look out for Praia do Martinhal, one of the region’s most appealing beaches. It's one of the gentlest, as it's sheltered from the full force of the Atlantic's waves by the promontory at Sagres. It's only 90 minutes from the nearest airport at Faro, but it's a world away from the busier resorts of the eastern Algarve.

Leave the canal boats for the others while you pootle at your own pace through Amsterdam’s waterways in a pedal boat. You’ll get a close-up view of the city’s distinctive gabled canal houses from your eco-friendly boat. They can be rented at four different piers in the city center, including one by the Rijksmuseum – handy for a bit of culture after your ride.

Ride a pedal boat through Amsterdam, Netherlands

Taking just over an hour, the train journey between Koblenz and Mainz is one of the loveliest in Europe. Along the way, you’ll see some of the prettiest landscapes of the Rhine Valley, with castles and vineyards rising from the winding river. You can make the journey longer by taking the slower train that stops at some of Germany's most attractive riverside spa towns.

Take the train from Koblenz to Mainz, Germany

<p>This northern Spanish city is famed for its delicious tapas – known as pintxos in the local Basque language. Take a slow bar crawl through the old town, nibbling these morsels of ham, seafood, cheese or olives along the way. They're either on bits of bread or on toothpicks, which you then tot up to find out how much to pay. Don't miss the Playa de la Concha, one of the loveliest city beaches in Europe.</p>

Taste the tapas of San Sebastian, Spain

This northern Spanish city is famed for its delicious tapas – known as pintxos in the local Basque language. Take a slow bar crawl through the old town, nibbling these morsels of ham, seafood, cheese or olives along the way. They're either on bits of bread or on toothpicks, which you then tot up to find out how much to pay. Don't miss the Playa de la Concha, one of the loveliest city beaches in Europe.

<p>Three of Belgium’s most prized products – fries, chocolate and beer – get their own museum. At the Bruges Beer Experience, reward yourself with a craft brew in the museum's taproom after taking a tour. At Choco-Story, you'll discover the fascinating history of chocolate and see how it's made. And as you wander through the Frietmuseum, the smell of fried potatoes will eventually lead your nose to the museum's cafe.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/49902/from-fairy-tales-to-food-and-wine-worlds-most-curious-museums">Take a look at more of the world's most curious museums</a></strong></p>

Visit Bruges’ offbeat museums, Belgium

Three of Belgium’s most prized products – fries, chocolate and beer – get their own museum. At the Bruges Beer Experience, reward yourself with a craft brew in the museum's taproom after taking a tour. At Choco-Story, you'll discover the fascinating history of chocolate and see how it's made. And as you wander through the Frietmuseum, the smell of fried potatoes will eventually lead your nose to the museum's cafe.

<p>There isn’t much left of the Berlin Wall, but there’s a stretch in old East <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/64443/what-to-do-in-berlin">Berlin</a> that's become the longest open-air gallery in the world and shouldn’t be missed. Check out the graffiti and street art mocking just about everything from politics to industrialisation. It's right on the edge of Kreuzberg, still one of Berlin's hippest districts after all these years.</p>

See Berlin’s East Side Gallery, Germany

There isn’t much left of the Berlin Wall, but there’s a stretch in old East Berlin that's become the longest open-air gallery in the world and shouldn’t be missed. Check out the graffiti and street art mocking just about everything from politics to industrialisation. It's right on the edge of Kreuzberg, still one of Berlin's hippest districts after all these years.

<p>Leave the crowds of Piazza San Marco behind and hop on a vaporetto (water bus) to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. The church’s bell tower (currently closed for maintenance) typically allows you to see the best views of Venice – and there’s even a lift to the top. Elsewhere, use the vaporetto to explore some of Venice's lesser-known districts, including Giudecca and the studenty part of Dorsoduro.</p>

Catch the best view of Venice, Italy

Leave the crowds of Piazza San Marco behind and hop on a vaporetto (water bus) to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. The church’s bell tower (currently closed for maintenance) typically allows you to see the best views of Venice – and there’s even a lift to the top. Elsewhere, use the vaporetto to explore some of Venice's lesser-known districts, including Giudecca and the studenty part of Dorsoduro.

It’s hard to find a more upmarket shopping area than the so-called Golden Square of luxury boutiques near Monte Carlo’s venerable casino. The top names are all here, ranging from Louis Vuitton and Gucci to Cartier and Christian Dior. While you're in Monaco, head up to the clifftop part of the principality where regal residences, colorful streets, and public gardens await.

Go shopping in Monte Carlo’s Carre d’Or, Monaco

<p>For more than 600 years, this mechanical marvel by Prague’s Old Town Hall has been putting on a performance every hour. Watch the procession of Apostles and statues as they mark each hour in mesmerizing style. You can catch it every hour on the hour from 9am until 11pm. While you're there, don't miss a visit to the dazzling interior of the Old Town Hall, a complex of several Gothic buildings.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/120241/the-worlds-most-stunning-medieval-sights">These are the world's most amazing medieval sights</a></strong></p>

Watch Prague’s astronomical clock, Czechia

For more than 600 years, this mechanical marvel by Prague’s Old Town Hall has been putting on a performance every hour. Watch the procession of Apostles and statues as they mark each hour in mesmerizing style. You can catch it every hour on the hour from 9am until 11pm. While you're there, don't miss a visit to the dazzling interior of the Old Town Hall, a complex of several Gothic buildings.

<p>Latvia’s capital is a pleasure to explore, particularly Riga’s old town on the Daugava River’s eastern side. Walk along cobbled streets admiring the magnificent medieval and Baroque architecture before taking in the views from the top of St Peter’s Church tower. Because the tower soars to 425 feet, you'll have splendid vistas of the old town's crenelated roofs, the historic zeppelin hangars that now house Riga Central Market and the uber-modern National Library of Latvia across the water.</p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/67280/things-to-do-in-riga-hotels"><strong>Check out more things to do and see in Riga</strong></a></p>

Visit Riga’s old town, Latvia

Latvia’s capital is a pleasure to explore, particularly Riga’s old town on the Daugava River’s eastern side. Walk along cobbled streets admiring the magnificent medieval and Baroque architecture before taking in the views from the top of St Peter’s Church tower. Because the tower soars to 425 feet, you'll have splendid vistas of the old town's crenelated roofs, the historic zeppelin hangars that now house Riga Central Market and the uber-modern National Library of Latvia across the water.

Hungarians have long enjoyed the benefits of a soothing soak and a good gossip in gently pulsating warm water. Join them in the thermal springs at Budapest’s sprawling 19th-century Szechenyi Baths, Europe’s largest medicinal baths. There's also a handsome Art Deco spa complex within the Hotel Gellert, which is open to the public and has beautifully tiled thermal baths indoors and outdoors.

Soak in Budapest’s spas, Hungary

Once you’ve had a good look around Krakow’s Market Square, head south to the old Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz. This lively district of kosher restaurants and funky bars is just across the river from Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, now a powerful museum telling the story of Krakow's wartime occupation and also a tribute to the man who saved 1,200 Jewish people during the war.

Explore Kazimierz Jewish Quarter in Krakow, Poland

<p>The Tatra Mountains form a natural border between Slovakia and Poland, and feature more than 90 lakes and 35 valleys. Keen hikers can join a hut-to-hut guided tour and keep an eye out for wildlife, including lynx and bears. The town of Poprad is a handy starting point for guided or self-guided walks, as it's right by Tatry-Poprad airport.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/210151/europes-hidden-gems-you-simply-have-to-see">Discover more of Europe's hidden gems you simply have to see</a></strong></p>

Go hiking in the Tatra Mountains, Slovakia

The Tatra Mountains form a natural border between Slovakia and Poland, and feature more than 90 lakes and 35 valleys. Keen hikers can join a hut-to-hut guided tour and keep an eye out for wildlife, including lynx and bears. The town of Poprad is a handy starting point for guided or self-guided walks, as it's right by Tatry-Poprad airport.

<p>It’s one of the world’s finest art galleries – and as it’s free, it’s one of <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/64317/what-to-do-in-london-guide">London</a>’s best bargains. The National Gallery’s huge collection covers everything from 13th-century paintings to works from the early 20th century. Among the 2,300-odd artworks are some of the world's best-known paintings, including Van Gogh's Sunflowers and Van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait.</p>

See the art in London's National Gallery, England, UK

It’s one of the world’s finest art galleries – and as it’s free, it’s one of London ’s best bargains. The National Gallery’s huge collection covers everything from 13th-century paintings to works from the early 20th century. Among the 2,300-odd artworks are some of the world's best-known paintings, including Van Gogh's Sunflowers and Van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait.

For true Viennese cafe culture, give the big chains a miss and head to one of the city’s historic coffeehouses. The 19th-century Cafe Central is a good bet for a lazy coffee and an indulgent slice of chocolatey Sachertorte. The traditional drink to order is "Kaffee mit Schlag", which delivers a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of your coffee.

Stop for a coffee in Vienna’s coffeehouses, Austria

Lording it over Athens on a rocky outcrop since the 5th century BC, the Acropolis is one of the ancient world’s finest creations. Its most famous monument is the Parthenon, a wonder of Doric columns dedicated to the goddess Athena. You can see the sculptures of the Acropolis in the gleaming, state-of-the-art Acropolis Museum, just a few minutes walk away.

Visit the Acropolis in Athens, Greece

<p>Slovenia’s capital is one of the most visually appealing in Europe; a harmonious blend of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture – not to mention an attractive string of cafes and bars along the Ljubljanica River. Some of the bars suit certain times of the day: for example, the ones along Petkovskovo nabrezje are the buzziest at happy hour. On hot summer days, head south to the large grassy area of Spica.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/64460/12-reasons-to-love-slovenia">Here are even more reasons to love Slovenia</a></strong></p>

Enjoy Ljubljana’s riverside cafes, Slovenia

Slovenia’s capital is one of the most visually appealing in Europe; a harmonious blend of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture – not to mention an attractive string of cafes and bars along the Ljubljanica River. Some of the bars suit certain times of the day: for example, the ones along Petkovskovo nabrezje are the buzziest at happy hour. On hot summer days, head south to the large grassy area of Spica.

The village of Mali Ston on Croatia’s Peljesac peninsula produces some of the world’s most delicious oysters. In fact, back in 1936, the General Trades International Exhibition in London awarded these oysters the Grand Prix, calling them the best in the world. If you're feeling fit, you can climb the three miles of 14th-century walls that connect Mali Ston to its neighbor, Ston.

Eat oysters in Mali Ston, Croatia

<p>Get the best view of Loch Lomond from the vantage point of a boat – anything as simple as a pedal boat to a large speedboat with its own skipper. Stop for a walk on a lake island or a lochside village. Loch Lomond forms part of the Trossachs National Park, the place to "bag some Munros" – walk up a Scottish mountain that's higher than 3,000 feet. You've got 21 here to choose from. Alternatively, explore Scotland by cruise ship – its coastline and islands make for an epic seafaring adventure.</p>

Take a boat ride on Loch Lomond, Scotland, UK

Get the best view of Loch Lomond from the vantage point of a boat – anything as simple as a pedal boat to a large speedboat with its own skipper. Stop for a walk on a lake island or a lochside village. Loch Lomond forms part of the Trossachs National Park, the place to "bag some Munros" – walk up a Scottish mountain that's higher than 3,000 feet. You've got 21 here to choose from. Alternatively, explore Scotland by cruise ship – its coastline and islands make for an epic seafaring adventure.

Tucked into a drowned river canyon is the charming medieval town of Kotor, which is rather like a smaller version of Dubrovnik, further up the Adriatic coast. For the best views (like the one pictured here), you’ll need to hike up to the top of Kotor’s fortifications to the Castle of St John. It’s worth the two-hour trek. Once you're back in town, treat yourself to ice cream at Marshall's Gelato.

Visit Kotor, Montenegro

<p>Allow plenty of time to explore the fascinating old town of Vilnius – it’s one of the largest intact medieval old towns in Europe, an enchanting mishmash of all sorts of architectural styles, from Gothic to Neoclassical. But Baroque is the king here, including the imposing 17th-century St Casimir's Church. For superb views, climb the 193 wooden steps to the top of St John's Church bell tower.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/135978/these-worldfamous-views-could-all-be-ruined-by-pollution">These world-famous views could all be ruined by air pollution</a></strong></p>

Visit the old town of Vilnius, Lithuania

Allow plenty of time to explore the fascinating old town of Vilnius – it’s one of the largest intact medieval old towns in Europe, an enchanting mishmash of all sorts of architectural styles, from Gothic to Neoclassical. But Baroque is the king here, including the imposing 17th-century St Casimir's Church. For superb views, climb the 193 wooden steps to the top of St John's Church bell tower.

<p>The Ottomans founded Sarajevo in the 15th century, and you can still see the strong Turkish legacy in the Bosnian capital’s old Bascarsija quarter. It’s like a mini Istanbul, with souk-like stalls squeezed in among cafes and silversmiths and coppersmiths working their metals in tiny workshops. You'll spot their little coffee pots in cafes, whose Turkish coffee – called bosanska kava – will keep you going for hours.</p>

Lose yourself in Sarajevo’s Ottoman Quarter, Bosnia-Herzegovina

The Ottomans founded Sarajevo in the 15th century, and you can still see the strong Turkish legacy in the Bosnian capital’s old Bascarsija quarter. It’s like a mini Istanbul, with souk-like stalls squeezed in among cafes and silversmiths and coppersmiths working their metals in tiny workshops. You'll spot their little coffee pots in cafes, whose Turkish coffee – called bosanska kava – will keep you going for hours.

Weave your way along the waterways of western Sweden’s biggest city on a Paddan boat, which takes you through Gothenburg’s canal system. Or you can hop on a harbor ferry that stops at some of the 20-odd islands in Gothenburg’s archipelago. The southern islands have banned cars and are relaxing places for long walks and bike rides. Some boat trips give you the chance to spot seals.

Ride a boat through Gothenburg’s waterways, Sweden

<p>Once you’ve seen Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Istanbul’s other landmarks in Sultanahmet, head across the Golden Horn to Beyoglu. The district's Istiklal Street is one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan in the city. Check out the little side alleyways where jazz clubs lurk in spaces hardly larger than cubbyholes.</p>

Visit Beyoglu in Istanbul, Turkey

Once you’ve seen Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Istanbul’s other landmarks in Sultanahmet, head across the Golden Horn to Beyoglu. The district's Istiklal Street is one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan in the city. Check out the little side alleyways where jazz clubs lurk in spaces hardly larger than cubbyholes.

<p>Slovenia's Lake Bled really does look like something out of a fairy tale. There’s even a medieval castle perched atop the lakeside cliffs. Rising from an islet in the centre of the lake is the Baroque-style Church of the Assumption and its striking bell tower. Once you ride to the island on a wooden boat called a pletna, tradition has it that you should climb the 99 stone steps to the top of the church tower and ring the bell yourself.</p>

Come to Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia's Lake Bled really does look like something out of a fairy tale. There’s even a medieval castle perched atop the lakeside cliffs. Rising from an islet in the centre of the lake is the Baroque-style Church of the Assumption and its striking bell tower. Once you ride to the island on a wooden boat called a pletna, tradition has it that you should climb the 99 stone steps to the top of the church tower and ring the bell yourself.

<p>It’s hard to choose among Greece’s 227 inhabited islands, but if you have to pick one, go for Symi. This small Dodecanese island has one of the prettiest ports, a riot of colorful houses tumbling to the water’s edge – not to mention excellent beaches. On the days when it's too hot to hike to the beach, just take a water taxi from Symi harbor.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/184438/greeces-most-beautiful-small-towns-and-villages">Explore more of Greece's most gorgeous places</a></strong></p>

Visit Symi, Greece

It’s hard to choose among Greece’s 227 inhabited islands, but if you have to pick one, go for Symi. This small Dodecanese island has one of the prettiest ports, a riot of colorful houses tumbling to the water’s edge – not to mention excellent beaches. On the days when it's too hot to hike to the beach, just take a water taxi from Symi harbor.

Tear yourself away from Paphos’ wonderful beaches and step into ancient history at the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park. This Unesco World Heritage Site features Greek, Roman and medieval ruins against a Mediterranean backdrop. Climb the steps of the ancient stone theatre and wander along the uncovered mosaic floors of four Roman villas.

Explore Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Cyprus

Serbia’s capital has the most boisterous nightlife in Eastern Europe – helped in large part by the several floating nightclubs, bars and restaurants that pepper both the Danube and Sava rivers. You'll find them in all shapes and sizes – from small shack-like bars to huge clubs with a pool on the terrace. In the summer, the party goes on well into the morning.

Join the party on Belgrade’s floating nightclubs, Serbia

The inhabitants of this small Maltese island evidently liked to think big when they built Gozo’s Ggantija Temples. This Neolithic temple complex is more than 5,500 years old – even older than the Pyramids in Egypt and Stonehenge in England. They're on the outskirts of the village of Xaghra and are less than two miles from the terracotta-colored sands of Ramla Beach, one of the island's loveliest.

Explore Gozo's Ggantija Temples, Malta

Switzerland has some pretty magical mountains, but the jagged peak of the Matterhorn surely wins hands down. Come at any time of year to Zermatt, where you can ski on the glacier both in winter and summer or explore the mountain trails on foot or by bike. Check out the underrated Matterhorn Museum, which tells the story of the many attempts to reach the summit.

Visit Zermatt and the Matterhorn, Switzerland

The self-styled capital of Transylvania is one of the buzziest in this far-flung corner of Europe, where its youthful population and the growing number of direct flights arriving here help to keep it fresh. Enjoy the bohemian ambiance of its cafes and student hangouts while taking in the handsome Gothic and Baroque architecture. Don't miss the impressive St Michael's Church and its soaring steeple.

Explore Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Stari Most – Mostar’s 16th-century bridge – had to be rebuilt after it was destroyed by Croatian forces in 1993 during the Bosnian War. You’d never know to look at it, though, and since its restoration in 2004, locals have carried on an old tradition of diving more than 65 feet into the Neretva River below. If you're holidaying in Croatia's Adriatic resorts, it's easy to fit in Mostar on a day trip.

Walk across the Stari Most of Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina

<p>Prepare to be dazzled by the extraordinary Keukenhof. More than seven million tulips and other brightly colored flowers spread across this sprawling garden that’s only about an hour from Amsterdam. But you'll have to time your visit carefully – because it's a celebration of spring flowers, the park is open only from March to May. </p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/169289/where-to-go-in-march-gorgeous-destinations-to-visit-this-month">These amazing destinations make for the perfect March getaway</a></strong></p>

Wander through Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands

Prepare to be dazzled by the extraordinary Keukenhof. More than seven million tulips and other brightly colored flowers spread across this sprawling garden that’s only about an hour from Amsterdam. But you'll have to time your visit carefully – because it's a celebration of spring flowers, the park is open only from March to May.

Named after the sweeping lake whose shores it occupies, Ohrid’s rich past is reflected in the picturesque streets of its old town, where Byzantine, Bulgarian and Ottoman architecture have given this idyllic town Unesco status. In its heyday, it had 365 churches – one for each day of the year. One church that's not to be missed is the 13th-century Church of St John, which is in a dramatic setting overlooking the ancient waters of Lake Ohrid.

Discover Ohrid, North Macedonia

<p>The biggest mountain in Wales and England stands at a whopping 3,650 feet, but there are many ways of exploring Snowdonia National Park without hardcore hiking. Its footpaths suit all levels – or you can just take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit. But it's not just mountains here – the park includes nearly 200 miles of seashore, with sandy beaches and sheltered coves.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/196400/30-quintessentially-british-experiences-you-must-try-before-you-die">30 quintessentially British experiences you must try before you die</a></strong></p>

Head to Snowdonia, Wales, UK

The biggest mountain in Wales and England stands at a whopping 3,650 feet, but there are many ways of exploring Snowdonia National Park without hardcore hiking. Its footpaths suit all levels – or you can just take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit. But it's not just mountains here – the park includes nearly 200 miles of seashore, with sandy beaches and sheltered coves.

Nicknamed the town of a thousand windows, Berat is one of Albania’s most arresting sights. White Ottoman houses cling to the side of a steep hill that’s crowned by a 13th-century fortress sheltering Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques. Have a look at the Ethnographic Museum housed in an 18th-century Ottoman building, where a medieval bazaar has been created.

Explore Berat, Albania

You get two old towns for the price of one in Tallinn. The hilltop upper town, Toompea, is dominated by the imposing Toompea Castle. Head to the walled lower town, All-linn, for romantic strolls along medieval cobbled streets. You'll see handsome merchants' houses dating from the time when Tallinn was attracting wealthy merchants from Denmark and Germany.

Wander through Tallinn’s old town, Estonia

<p>Urbane Varna stands out from Bulgaria’s Black Sea beach towns as it’s a port city and naval base as well as a resort. There’s plenty of room along its waterfront promenade for sunbathing, as well as a large selection of bars and restaurants. Afterwards, you can cool off in the lushness of the 19th-century Primorski Park.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/199662/eerie-europe-abandoned-places-and-their-secrets">Decaying beach towns, haunted castles and more of Europe's eeriest abandoned places</a></strong></p>

Stroll along Varna’s Black Sea waterfront, Bulgaria

Urbane Varna stands out from Bulgaria’s Black Sea beach towns as it’s a port city and naval base as well as a resort. There’s plenty of room along its waterfront promenade for sunbathing, as well as a large selection of bars and restaurants. Afterwards, you can cool off in the lushness of the 19th-century Primorski Park.

<p>Allow at least two hours for a wander around the medieval and Renaissance fortifications circling Dubrovnik’s cookie-colored old town. Get a snapshot of Dubrovnik life as you walk past courtyard gardens, laundry-lined balconies and terracotta rooftops. The walls are extremely popular with cruise-ship crowds that descend in their thousands, so try to time your visit for as early in the morning or as late in the afternoon as possible. A ticket for the city walls will also grant you access to Fort Lovrijenac, across the bay from the historic centre.</p> <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/103353/the-worlds-most-beautiful-walled-towns-and-cities"><strong>Discover more of the world's most beautiful walled towns and cities</strong></a></p>

Walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls, Croatia

Allow at least two hours for a wander around the medieval and Renaissance fortifications circling Dubrovnik’s cookie-colored old town. Get a snapshot of Dubrovnik life as you walk past courtyard gardens, laundry-lined balconies and terracotta rooftops. The walls are extremely popular with cruise-ship crowds that descend in their thousands, so try to time your visit for as early in the morning or as late in the afternoon as possible. A ticket for the city walls will also grant you access to Fort Lovrijenac, across the bay from the historic centre.

<p>Located near the German border with Czechia, Dresden has collected its fair share of nicknames over the years, including Florence on the Elbe and the Jewel Box. The world almost lost it forever during the Second World War, when it was bombed into near-oblivion. But this dazzling Saxon city has since been reborn and is full of world-class museums, lavish palaces, onion-domed churches and arty hotspots ready to welcome discerning visitors.</p>

Spend a weekend in Dresden, Germany

Located near the German border with Czechia, Dresden has collected its fair share of nicknames over the years, including Florence on the Elbe and the Jewel Box. The world almost lost it forever during the Second World War, when it was bombed into near-oblivion. But this dazzling Saxon city has since been reborn and is full of world-class museums, lavish palaces, onion-domed churches and arty hotspots ready to welcome discerning visitors.

It’s not just distance that sets this remote North Atlantic archipelago apart from the rest of Europe. Though the Faroe Islands are an autonomous territory of Denmark, they have a unique geography and culture all of their own. All emerald valleys, plunging waterfalls, and ink-black basalt cliffs, this is a place of otherworldly beauty. Visit between May and August to be in with a chance of glancing puffins on Mykines, the most westerly of all the main Faroe Islands.

Get back to nature in the Faroe Islands, Denmark

<p>The story of the Northern Irish capital is inextricably linked to that of the world’s most tragic ocean liner. Built on Belfast’s slipways, the RMS Titanic began life here before sailing into Southampton for that ill-fated maiden voyage. Today, the waterfront Titanic Quarter of the city exists to further connect the dots of this maritime history, featuring unmissable maritime-themed attractions like the immersive Titanic Belfast museum.</p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/123232/ss-nomadic-titanic-sister-ship-belfast-restored">Now discover the story of Titanic's lesser-known sister ship</a></strong></p>

Learn Belfast’s nautical history, Northern Ireland, UK

The story of the Northern Irish capital is inextricably linked to that of the world’s most tragic ocean liner. Built on Belfast’s slipways, the RMS Titanic began life here before sailing into Southampton for that ill-fated maiden voyage. Today, the waterfront Titanic Quarter of the city exists to further connect the dots of this maritime history, featuring unmissable maritime-themed attractions like the immersive Titanic Belfast museum.

Now discover the story of Titanic's lesser-known sister ship

More for You

The (Official) Best Way to Reheat a Glazed Doughnut, According to Krispy Kreme

Former President Donald Trump and attorney Todd Blanche return from a lunch break in his trial at Manhattan criminal court in New York on Thursday, April 18, 2024. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via AP, Pool)

Trump loses bid to halt Jan. 6 lawsuits while he fights criminal charges in the 2020 election case

James Bond Trailer Featuring Henry Cavill Receives 2.3M Views Despite Being an AI Fake | THR News Video

Shohei Ohtani made his MLB debut in 2018.

Shohei Ohtani, LA Dodgers Phenom, to Build Offseason Home in New Luxury Hawaii Community

1973: Chevrolet Monte Carlo – Elegant Revamp With Muscle

The Coolest Car From the Year You Were Born (1945-1995)

Scottie Scheffler of the United States celebrates on the 18th green after winning the 2024 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 14, 2024 in Augusta, Georgia.

Paige Spiranac has theory for plummeting Masters ratings

The Best All-You-Can-Eat Buffet in Every State

Tech trick: How to tell who’s calling when you don’t recognize the phone number

Tesla tells some laid-off employees their separation agreements are canceled and new ones are on the way

Former Trump Campaign Adviser Stephen Moore Interview

Trump Pushed to Embrace 17% Income Tax for All

Sha'Carri Richardson wears Nike's Team USA uniform for the 2024 Paris Olympics

Nike Explains the Design Choices for Paris Olympics Women’s Track and Field Uniforms After Concerns (Exclusive)

How Alan Ritchson made “Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” more violent than Guy Ritchie wanted

Frozen hamburger patties in stack on wooden board

Is It Safe To Grill Frozen Hamburger Patties Straight From The Freezer?

Wendy’s celebrates Fridays with free fries for the rest of the year

Iran is the seventh largest oil producer in the world

Markets rocked as US says Israel has struck Iran

10 Facts About Wilford Brimley

Antisemitism is everywhere. We tracked it across all 50 states.

aerial skyscrapers downtown miama florida_iStock-1716498889

I’m a Real Estate Agent: Here Are the 4 Florida Cities Where You Should Avoid Buying a Home

Ford Drops Limited Edition 60th Anniversary Mustang for 2025

House Freedom Caucus Chair Bob Good, right, distanced himself from calls to oust Speaker Mike Johnson, left.

Freedom Caucus chair who ousted McCarthy distances himself from push to boot Johnson

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Komsomolskaya Station on the Moscow metro

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Night view of Arbat Street decorated for the holidays

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

VDNKh All-Russian Exhibition Centre and the Friendship of the Peoples Fountain

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

Browsing Category

Czech Republic
Saint Martin
Uncategorized

Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

the red st basils church in moscow on a white winters day

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

man and woman standing in front of main church in moscow

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

red orthodox church in moscow russia red square on a winter day

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

woman in winter jacket standing in front of St Basils Russian Orthodox in moscow on a winter day

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

selfie of man and woman pointing to the Kremlin in Moscow

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

red exterior of lenins mausoleum in moscow russia

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

man in sinter jacket standing in arbat street moscow at night with glistening white lights strung from the buildings

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

people walking inside GUM mall in russia with christmas lights

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in my post about finding cheap flights that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

turned-on chandelier on ceiling of moscow metro

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

group of people walking in moscow red square at night with christmas lights everywhere

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

woman in head scarf hugging bronze statue of angry bear

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Meet The Author - Greg

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

white ceramic mug surrounded by used tissues on white table beside black eyeglasses

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

mother and father with baby strapped to chest on a hike in the rocky mountains under clear blue sky

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

swimsuit model in white and blue bikini on Mexico beach with clear blue water

10 Best Beaches in Mexico for Families (We Lived Here)

February 3, 2024

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

Share this post:

Where to Stay in Moscow

9 Most Beautiful Regions in Russia

10 Best Places to Visit in Russia

15 Best Attractions & Things to do in Saint Petersburg, Russia

15 Best Cities to Visit in Russia

10 Most Amazing Destinations in Eastern Russia

14 Most Scenic Small Towns In Russia

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Russia

10 Best Countries to Visit in Africa

10 Best Places to Visit in Armenia

IMAGES

21 BEST Places to visit in Europe in Summer 2023 (Beach, Food + MAP)
The 18 Most Beautiful Places in Europe to Add to Your Bucket List
15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2023
Best places to visit in Europe in August 2023
23 Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2023
15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2023

VIDEO

Top 10 Places to Visit in Europe in 2024 #travel
🇧🇪 Belgium Metro Train 🚂
Must visit places in Europe 2024 ❤️
🇱🇺 Luxembourg Honest Library
🇱🇺 Luxembourg Population 6.5 Lakhs
🇱🇺 Luxembourg Free Schools

COMMENTS

Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024
Athens. #10 in Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024. Athens was made for history buffs and architecture aficionados thanks to its world-renowned landmarks like the Acropolis, home of the ...
The 20 Best Places In Europe To Visit In 2023: Warsaw Tops ...
Earning a record number of votes, Warsaw, Poland, appears at the top of the list, followed by Athens (Greece), Maribor (Slovenia), Vienna (Austria) and Cittadella, (Italy) taking the first five spots.
Europe
Plan Your Trip Visit Fodor's Norway Guide. Fodor's list of the best recommendations for places to travel to and things to see and do in Europe in 2023. The list includes Crete in Greece and ...
23 Best Europe Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path in 2023
The Cinema of Nature, Leogang, Austria. 10. The Asitz Mountain, Austria. One of the most unique places to visit in Europe for a sustainable summer hike of culture, art and escapism. One of my most recent Europe hidden gem finds is the region of Saalfelden Leogang, set in the Austrian Alps.
Best Places to Travel in 2023
7. Veszprém, Hungary. Veszprém, the European Capital of Culture 2023 is also one of your Best European Destinations 2023 and the Best Destination to visit in Hungary in 2023 ! The city of Veszprém is wedged between the wooded slopes of the Bakony Hills and the northern shore of Lake Balaton.
Our Readers' Favorite Cities in Europe of 2023
Travel + Leisure Readers' 15 Favorite Cities in Europe of 2023. T+L readers chose European cities known for food, architecture, and a good deal in our annual "World's Best Awards" survey for 2023.
23 Destinations to Visit in Europe in 2023
Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Honorary mentions. Europe is filled with places to explore and it's really hard to narrow down the list to only 23 of them. The destinations below are also well worth your time exploring in the coming year. Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Berlin, Germany >>book your accommodation in Berlin
Our Europe travel guide for 2023 & 2024
Croatia: Croatia is no longer the underrated gem it was in the past, however the popularity is definitely justified! Boasting world-best beaches, delightful seaside towns, and lots of historic towns to explore, Croatia definitely deserves a place on your Europe 2023 travel itinerary. We would strongly recommend you visit the Croatian Islands ...
Europe's Best Places to Visit in 2023
Greenland. Breathtaking rocky fjords, majestic glaciers, and quiet, colorful towns make Greenland one of the best places to visit in 2023 - at least for lovers of the Arctic Circle and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. A massive icy island between Iceland and the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, Greenland is as enthralling as it is remote.
Europe's must-see spots for 2023: A guide to the Continent's best
Get ready to explore Europe's top destinations in 2023! From iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Palermo Cathedral, to charming cafes in Vienna, and the stunning countryside of Transylvania, this guide has got you covered. Whether you're an adventure-seeker, a history buff, or a foodie, you'll find something to love in these must-see spots. Join us on a journey across the continent and discover ...
15 of the Hottest European Destinations to Book in 2024
15 of the Hottest European Destinations to Book in 2024. October 06, 2023. By Riley Wilson and Maxim Boon. Share this article. If your Euro-summer tan is all but faded and you've found yourself wistfully yearning for aperitivo hour on an Italian piazza or a Greek sunset, cocktail in hand, the diagnosis is clear: you're suffering from a case ...
The best cities to visit in Europe in 2023
According to Lonely Planet, Dresden is one of the top travel destinations for 2023. But actually, Dresden has always been a great destination. Besides the usual sights like the Zwinger, the Semper Opera and the Frauenkirche, I recommend a trip to the Neustadt where Dresden gets a bit wilder and alternative.
Best places to Visit in Europe
These are your bucket lists of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. Discover the best destinations for Christmas, the most beautiful beaches in Europe, the best summer festivals, the best family destinations, the most romantic destinations, the hidden gems or the best fairytale destinations and many more. There is so much to discover ...
50 Best Places To Visit In Europe In 2023 (With Map Of Europe)
16. Rome, Italy. Rome is one of the best places to visit in Europe as a foreigner, if not the world, with its remarkable history and architecture dating back to the ancient Roman Empire and continuing right up through the mediaeval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras. 17. Czech Republic, Cesky Krumlov.
European bucket list: 8 top places to visit in 2023
We've selected eight destinations to inspire you as you draw up your 2023 bucket list; in easy reach of each one, there's a fabulous Historic Hotels of Europe stay to make it even more magical. 1. Wieden, Austria. While Vienna is known for world-class culture, art and performance, there's an edgier, more contemporary side to the city to ...
25 best places to visit in Europe in December (2023 guide)
25 best places to visit in Europe in December (2023 guide) Posted on August 21, 2023 August 22, 2023 by Claire Martin. 21 Aug. There's no better place than Europe in December. ... Read on to discover the most Christmassy places to visit in Europe! 1. Rovameni, Finland.
The 23 Best Places To Travel In 2023: Top Travel Destinations
Best Places to Travel in 2023: Caribbean, Central and South America. Author Peggy Bree in Manizales, Colombia. Peggy Bree. Where to Go: Manizales, Colombia. Chosen By: A digital nomad from Toronto ...
The Amazing Europe Bucket List: 50 Places to Get off the Beaten Path
Cercedilla, Spain is a small abandoned pueblo just north of Madrid., making it one of the best non-touristy places to visit in Europe as its lack of tourist attractions keeps people away. Popular among hikers, Cercedilla is an easy train ride from Madrid. Interestingly, many Spaniards owned summer homes in this beautiful town but lost their ...
59 European Places You NEED To Visit In Your Lifetime
Visit Kotor, Montenegro. Tucked into a drowned river canyon is the charming medieval town of Kotor, which is rather like a smaller version of Dubrovnik, further up the Adriatic coast. For the best ...
15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow
Spend a rainy day at the Tretyakov Gallery. 10. Walk Up and Down Arbat Street. 11. Stop by the VDNKh All-Russian Exhibition Centre. 12. Wander Around Gorky Park. Where to Stay in Moscow for Sightseeing. Map of Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow.
The world's top city destinations for 2023 are revealed
6. Berlin: Seven out of the top 10 cities on Euromonitor International's 2023 list are in Europe. Manfred Gottschalk/Alamy Stock Photo. 7. Rome: The Spanish Steps are one of the Italian capital's ...
Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]
3. Marvel at St. Basil's Cathedral. St. Basil's Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil's Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style.
17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow (+Photos)
Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin. 2. Red Square. Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.
What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year
Rome and Dubrovnik weren't the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes.
Top 20 Places To Visit In Moscow In 2023 Which Will Amaze You!
Explore 20 places to visit in Moscow in 2023 like the Kremlin, Red Square, Diamond Fund, & Ostankino Tower that let you relish the real Russian culture. ... Ostankino Tower is famous for being the only free-standing structure in the whole of Europe. Apart from being the eleventh high-rising structures of the world, the observation deck at ...
5 Adventures In Europe Without The Crowds
There is an October 2024 departure, and the price is $4,595. Hiker in Tatra Mountains, Poland. getty. Poland & Slovakia Walking & Hiking Tour. Backroads has organized this six-day national parks ...
A comprehensive list of 2023 & 2024 tech layoffs
October: 7,331 employees laid off — see all October 2023 Tech Layoffs. November: 6,956 employees laid off — see all November 2023 Tech Layoffs. December: 7,159 employees laid off — see all ...
What the data says about abortion in the U.S.
Support for legal abortion is widespread in many countries, especially in Europe. report Apr 26, 2023. ... 2023. By more than two-to-one, Americans say medication abortion should be legal in their state. report Sep 29, 2022. Most Latinos Say Democrats Care About Them and Work Hard for Their Vote, Far Fewer Say So of GOP. report Sep 1, 2022.
Iran missile and drone attack on Israel
Israel's military has reported minor damage after Iran launched dozens of drones and missiles towards it late on Saturday

23 Best hidden gems in Europe: off the beaten path places for 2023

1. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Remotest Corners

2. Graz, Austria

3. Pico Island, The Azores, Portugal

4. Villa Romana del Casale, Italy

5. Vipava Valley, Slovenia

6. León, Spain

7. The Georgian Caucasus Mountains

8. The Hague, The Netherlands

9. Berat, Albania

10. The Asitz Mountain, Austria

11. Porto Santo Island, Portugal

12. Castelmezzano, Italy

13. Durham, England

14. Erfurt and Thuringia, Germany

15. Bansko & Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

16. The Frosinone Valley, Italy

17. Nisyros Island, Greece

18. Monsanto and Central Portugal’s Schist Villages

19. Annecy, France

20. Sutherland and Moray, Scotland

21. Lake of the Four Cantons, Switzerland

22. The Ore Mountains, Saxony

23. Kutna Hora, Czech Republic

+ For the future: Kyiv, Ukraine

Related Posts:

Comments are closed.

Hey, I’m Dan…

Recent Articles…

Travel + Leisure Readers' 15 Favorite Cities in Europe of 2023

How Voting Works

Travel. Love. Europe. Us

Top Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Ohrid, North Macedonia

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Ugljan Island, Croatia

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Crete, Greece

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Soča Valley – Slovenia

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Killarney National Park, Ireland

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Monsanto, Portugal

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Ischia Island, Italy

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Warsaw, Poland

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Minster Lovell, England

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Sarandë, Albania

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Amalfi, Italy

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Quedlinburg, Germany

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Gdańsk, Poland

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Málaga, Spain

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Athens, Greece

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: London, England

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Porto, Portugal

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Valencia, Spain

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Stockholm, Sweden

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Bergen, Norway

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Lugano, Switzerland

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Honorary mentions

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Berlin, Germany

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Douro Valley, Portugal

Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2023: Sibiu, Romania

Share this:

2 thoughts on “ 23 Destinations to Visit in Europe in 2023 ”

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Our Europe travel guide for 2023 & 2024

Where should you travel in 2023?

OUR TOP EUROPE PICKS:

Jungfrau region in Switzerland:

SOME DESTINATIONS TO CONSIDER:

TRANSYLVANIA:

Scandinavia:

Southern France:

A few key considerations, recommendations, and tips for travelling Europe in 2023:

Our favourite places & where we want to visit in 2023 and beyond:

What time of year should you travel?

Slow vs Fast Travel?

Look into your travel destinations a little more..

Europe Itineraries:

Plan and prepare!

A bit of perspective?

Booking Accommodation in Europe in 2023: