From stunning towns and cities to awe-inspiring national parks and ancient monuments, Europe is blessed with some truly gorgeous places to visit. Here, we’ve picked what we think is the most beautiful destination in each European country to add to your ‘must see’ list. Russia, Belarus and Ukraine are excluded due to the ongoing war.
Click through the gallery to discover our pick of Europe’s loveliest locations...
Ksamil’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters are among the most beautiful in Europe, and yet this small village on the Albanian Riviera remains something of a hidden gem. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and offering glorious views of the Ionian coast, it's a perfect base for exploring the region as a whole. The beach also has four uninhabited, tree-lined islands close by, all of which are easily accessible by boat and offer a more secluded sanctuary for those who want to get away from it all.
The rugged mountain landscape of Andorra is the perfect backdrop for the ancient, picturesque Church of Santa Coloma. Built between the 8th and 9th centuries (with the tower dating from slightly later) this pre-Romanesque gem is the only one of its kind in Andorra. Dedicated to Columba of Sens, the country’s patron saint, the church contains the remains of a series of frescoes made in the 12th century by the 'Master of Santa Coloma'. Few of the originals remain, but small groups of visitors can now see accurate recreations projected onto the walls.
Surrounded by towering Alpine hills, the tiny lakeside village of Hallstatt, home to only around 800 people, is simply stunning. Head to the centre and you’ll find glorious Bavarian architecture surrounding the cobbled marketplace and then take a stroll to Seestraße, known as Lake Street, for spectacular views over the lake and mountains. The village’s beauty of course draws the crowds, but so too does the fact that episodes of a popular Korean soap were filmed here. There is also a life-size version of the village in China. Visitors from both countries flock here as a result.
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Although its claim to be the 'smallest city in the world' may be rather grand, there’s no doubt that the tiny village of Durbuy is one of the most delightful spots in Belgium. Situated on the banks of the River Ourthe, surrounded by the beautiful hills and lush green forests of the Ardennes, its charming cobblestoned streets and slate roofed houses are lined with intriguing boutiques, traditional cafés and excellent restaurants (including the Michelin-starred Le Grand Verre). It's an ideal base for exploring the surrounding provinces of Liege, Namur and Luxembourg.
The Kravica waterfalls are one of the most beautiful natural sites in the Herzegovinian region of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Here the Trebižat River cascades in 20 individual falls, each around 82 feet (25m) high, into an emerald pool with a radius of around 394 feet (120m). Its bijou size makes it uniquely accessible and it’s a favourite picnic and summer swimming spot for locals. During late spring and summer, the heat causes water from the lake to rise up and form into mist above the valley. This stunning natural phenomenon provides some respite from the sweltering temperatures.
Bulgaria’s highest mountain range, the Rila Mountains, provide a stunning backdrop for one of the country’s most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments. Originally founded in the 10th century, the Rila Monastery was rebuilt between 1832 and 1862 after being destroyed by fire. A key example of the Bulgarian Renaissance, the beautiful five-domed church is surrounded by a four-storey residential complex which still houses around 60 monks. Home to many important religious icons and decorated with stunning frescoes, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.
The oldest and largest national park in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes, has long attracted nature lovers. Covering almost 30,000 hectares the landscape is dominated by a mix of forests and meadows and a series of stunning emerald lakes, caves and waterfalls. The continually evolving lake system is the result of millennia of ongoing geological and biochemical processes that create natural dams known as tufa barriers. Its unique ecosystem has gained it UNESCO World Heritage status.
With its fairytale mixture of medieval cobblestoned streets, Gothic and Baroque houses and imposing castle, Český Krumlov could almost be a miniature version of Prague. And yet, this charming little town built around a serpentine bend in the Vltava River retains its own unique character. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s home to the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, dedicated to the famous Austrian painter, while the castle complex is among the largest in central Europe and includes a beautifully preserved Baroque theatre widely regarded as one of the finest in existence.
Known as Denmark's Sunshine Island, Bornholm is renowned for its mild climate, quaint fishing villages, half-timbered cottages and distinctive fortified churches (pictured). Its diverse landscape ranges from fine sandy beaches and picturesque harbours to dramatic cliffs and towering rock formations. The island’s capital, Ronne, is an important centre of traditional pottery and also home to Denmark's oldest working theatre. A great place to try local cuisine, Bornholm is also famous for its mouthwatering smoked herring and, thanks to its sunny climate, home to one of Denmark’s oldest wineries.
One of Northern Europe’s best preserved medieval cities, Tallinn’s ancient streetscapes, noble merchant’s houses and fine churches make it absurdly photogenic. The delightful Town Hall Square is filled with lively outdoor cafés from which you can marvel at the spectacular architecture at ground level. Venture to the top of the Gothic Town Hall’s tower and you’ll gain incredible views over the city’s iconic skyline, dotted with red roofed towers and church spires. You’ll also find vibrant modern culture and an excellent food scene here too. The city is home to Estonia’s only Michelin-starred restaurants.
Located in the heart of Finland’s Saimaa Lakeland – a vast inland archipelago consisting of thousands of tiny inland islands – Savonlinna offers a perfect blend of history and stunning natural beauty. Dating back to the 15th century, the magnificent Olavinlinna Castle (pictured) and the nearby old town with its charming wooden houses and cobblestoned avenues are ideal for exploring at leisure. The spectacular surrounding region, with its labyrinth of waterways and islands, offers unlimited opportunities for cycling, hiking, kayaking and (in the winter months) cross-country skiing.
Set in an enchanting bay shared by Brittany and Normandy, the rocky island of Mont Saint-Michel is a truly magical site. It’s home to a small medieval village whose steep winding main street leads up to the spectacular Benedictine Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel which dates back to AD 708. During the summer months tours are available as night falls, with lights and music creating a particularly sublime atmosphere. The bay itself is subject to some of the biggest tidal ranges in the world creating a mesmerisingly beautiful, ever-changing seascape.
One of the world’s great rivers, the Rhine is not short of spectacular sights. But the 40 mile (65km) stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, known as the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, is something else. Its picture-perfect landscape of rolling vineyards, towering gorges, ruined hilltop castles and historic towns is one of the most iconic sights Germany has to offer, inspiring the work of numerous writers, artists and composers. Largely unchanged for centuries, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002 and continues to work its enchanting spell on each new generation of visitors.
It’s hard to believe that a place like Meteora could exist. Perched on the top of seemingly inaccessible rocky peaks, or 'Heavenly Columns', this complex of monasteries in northwestern Greece was built between the 11th and 16th centuries. There were originally 24 of these astonishing structures, most of which are now picturesque ruins. Today, six are still in use and open to visitors. They're accessible via steep pathways and staircases carved into the rock. A climb to the top makes for a truly unforgettable experience and offers breathtaking views over this unique landscape.
The largest freshwater lake in central Europe, Lake Balaton is famous in Hungary for its unrivalled bathing, watersports and medicinal springs, as well as being a major wine-producing area. Unsurprisingly, this place can get pretty busy during the summer. In amongst it, the Benedictine Abbey of Tihany offers an oasis of tranquillity amongst the bustling resorts which line its shores. Set on an idyllic wooded hill, the twin-spired church was completed in 1754 and features a stunning Baroque interior, while the surrounding grounds offer breathtaking views over the lake.
Covering 8% of Iceland’s landmass, stretching more than 3,000 square miles (7,770sqkm) and reaching thicknesses of up to 3,000 feet (914m), Vatnajökull is Europe’s largest glacier. It forms the centrepiece of the Vatnajökull National Park, a vast wintry landscape of spectacular ice formations, vast canyons, steep mountain ridges, stunning waterfalls and broad open ranges in which herds of wild reindeer roam. Unmissable highlights include the majestic beauty of Jökulsárlón, an enormous glacial lake which offers outstanding views of the vast icecap, and the sapphire-blue ice caves of Breidamerkurjökull (pictured).
Running for nine miles (14km) and soaring to a height of 702 feet (214m), the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare count among the most dramatic and romantic landscapes in the whole of Ireland. The cliff tops offer stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean, while from the top of O’Brien’s Tower it’s possible to see as far as the Aran islands and Galway Bay to the north. The rolling green fields above the cliffs are also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including colonies of puffins, while grey seals, dolphins and basking sharks can often be sighted from the shore.
Tuscany is renowned as one of the most beautiful regions of Italy and the Val d’Orcia is arguably the most stunning area within it. Dotted with vineyards, olive groves, cypresses, beech and chestnut groves, the valley is home to magnificent castles and well-preserved medieval villages. The ancient town of Montepulciano, with its stunning Piazza Grande, and Montalcino, boasting its imposing 14th century fortress, should feature on any visit to the area. As should Pienza, the birthplace of Pope Pius II whose desire to turn what was a humble village into an ideal Renaissance town accounts for its beauty.
Almost a country in miniature, Gauja National Park encompasses a multitude of attractions, from beautiful landscapes, caves and natural springs to ruined castles, churches, museums, ancient manor houses and three picturesque medieval towns: Straupe, Sigulda and Cesis. Established in 1973, it is Latvia’s oldest and largest national park, covering more than 90,000 hectares. Its distinctive reddish sandstone rocks, cliffs and caverns make it an area of incredible natural beauty. A popular destination for hikers, several different trails are available to explore its myriad pleasures.
Perched high on a hill almost 400 feet (120m) above the capital, Vaduz Castle has served as the palace and primary residence of Liechtenstein's Princely family since 1938. Although the castle isn’t open to the public, once a year on Liechtenstein’s National Day (August 15th) visitors are allowed access to the gardens for a drinks reception and fireworks display. But all year round, anyone fit enough to manage the steep trail up the hill can enjoy spectacular views of the castle and the town below. The Alps form a stunning backdrop here.
An enchanting mixture of Gothic, Classical, Renaissance and Baroque buildings, the historic centre of Vilnius is one of the largest surviving medieval Old Towns in Northern Europe. Still a residential area, its beauty is matched by its vibrant atmosphere, which buzzes with life and centuries of history, from its stately Cathedral Square to the bohemian district (and self-proclaimed Republic) of Uzupis. Head to the top of Gediminas Hill for panoramic views of the entire city. See everything from the ancient rooftops of the Old Town to the gleaming skyscrapers of modern Vilnius.
Known as Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland, the Mullerthal region of the country is characterised by dense woodlands traversed by rushing streams, imposing sandstone formations, magical caves and gorges and a truly spectacular variety of plants and trees. For keen hikers the best way to appreciate the natural wonders of the region is by following the Mullerthal Trail (pictured), a 70-mile (112km) route through wonderfully varied landscapes. The route can be challenging though, so less adventurous types should pick an easygoing section.
Malta’s capital until the Middle Ages, the fortified city of Mdina remains one of Europe’s most magical and beguiling destinations. Known locally as the Silent City, no cars are allowed within its walls and visitors are encouraged to keep their voices low while exploring its sleepy, winding streets and beautifully preserved medieval buildings. Indeed, the city’s only residents, who number around 250, are a few surviving descendants of the Maltese nobility who originally built the city’s majestic houses and palaces when Mdina was at its peak.
Occupying a spectacular setting atop a long limestone ridge overlooking the Raut River, Orheiul Vechi (Old Orhei) is one of Moldova’s most impressive attractions. This area of stark natural beauty, close to the village of Butuceni, is best known for its complex of cave churches and monasteries carved directly into the cliffs between the 15th and 18th centuries. On top of the ridge, the Monastery of the Birth of the Virgin Mary (pictured) offers panoramic views over the rugged splendour of the surrounding countryside.
Perched high on a cliff overlooking Monaco, the Jardin Exotique offers visitors to this densely populated city a breath of fresh air. It's an ideal alternative to the bustling beaches and casinos down by the coast. Opened in 1933, its 15 hectares of landscaped gardens, winding pathways and staircases are home to 1,000 cacti and other succulent plants from exotic climes. The clifftop location ensures breathtaking views across the Mediterranean, while visitors can also explore the spectacular subterranean caves below the gardens.
Offering glorious views over nearby Perast and the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the tiny artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks is a stunning location with a fascinating history. According to legend, it was built over many years by sailors who were fulfilling an oath after finding an icon of the Madonna and Child on a rock in the sea following a shipwreck. They would throw a rock into the sea on the same spot after every voyage and, eventually, the island emerged from beneath the water’s surface. The small stone church on the island (pictured) was built in 1630.
Famous as the birthplace of Vermeer and home of the world-famous blue ceramics, Delft is arguably the most beautiful city in the Netherlands. Its picturesque centre is like a time capsule, ringed by pretty canals and dotted with traditional step-gabled houses which have scarcely changed since the Golden Age of the 17th century. Notable landmarks include the Renaissance style City Hall on the Markt (Main Square) and the Oude Kerk, with its leaning tower, where Vermeer is buried.
Although only nine miles (15km) from its capital city, Skopje, Matka Canyon is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience the sublime natural beauty of North Macedonia. Covering around 5,000 hectares, this vast rocky ravine is home to lush forests, spectacular caves, hidden springs and a dozen or so historic churches and monasteries. At its heart is the country's oldest man-made lake, a 4.3 mile (7km) stretch of tranquil grey-green water which conceals one of the deepest underwater caves in Europe.
It will come as no surprise to find one of Norway’s fjords on this list and Geirangerfjord is undoubtedly one of the country's most spectacular. Around 9.5 miles (15km) long and flanked by majestic snow-capped mountains and teeming waterfalls, it's a truly breathtaking sight, whether viewed from a cruise boat, kayak or one of the precipitous hiking paths which line its perimeter. Adventurous motorists can even brave the hairpin bends on the surrounding roads and head up to the Geiranger Skywalk Viewing Point, almost a mile (1.5km) above sea level.
Home to Poland’s highest peaks and deepest caves, the Tatra National Park offers a spectacular blend of untamed natural beauty and diverse wildlife, from postglacial lakes and Stone Pine forests to Edelweiss and Golden Eagles. A superb region for hiking, skiing, climbing, and cave exploring, it's also an ideal place to simply stop and take in the scenery. Take a Cable Railway from Kuźnice to the top of Kasprowy Wierch, which rises 6,430 feet (1,960m) above sea level, for breathtaking views across the entire area.
With its colourful houses, vibrant nightlife, sumptuous cuisine and world-famous wine, Porto is a gleaming gem on the Iberian Peninsula. Perched on a hill overlooking the mouth of the River Douro, its Old Town is lined with picturesque houses with flowering balconies, café terraces and ancient churches. Vintage trams with wooden interiors trundle through the streets, while pedestrians can enjoy spectacular views of the city from the monumental Dom Luis I Bridge, once the longest iron arch bridge in the world.
Framed by the peaks of the Bucegi and Piatra Craiului mountains and perched atop rugged rocks, Bran Castle in the historic Transylvanian region of Romania is a dramatically imposing site. The castle has a long and dramatic history, but it is undoubtedly the association with Dracula that draws the crowds. Although Bram Stoker never actually visited Romania, he is widely believed to have used an illustration of Bran Castle in Charles Boner’s book Transylvania: Its Product and Its People as his inspiration for the bloodthirsty Count’s fictional residence.
San Marino’s magnificent neo-Gothic Palazzo Pubblico overlooks the historic Piazza della Libertà and is the official seat of government. It was designed by the Roman architect Francesco Azzurri and built between 1884 and 1894 using stones extracted from quarries on Monte Titano (Mount Titan). The internationally-renowned architect Gae Aulenti was responsible for its restoration in 1996. The façade is richly decorated with a number of symbols including the Coat of Arms of the Republic and of four castles, Serravalle, Fiorentino, Montegiardino and Faetano.
Subotica is filled with lavishly decorated and richly coloured Art Nouveau buildings in a variety of regional styles. It's a mix that makes any stroll around the city a real feast for the eyes. The dreamlike Synagogue is the only one in Europe to feature elements of Hungarian Art Nouveau while the City Museum, housed in the former Dömötör Palace, is a fine example of the geometric elements found in the Viennese version of Art Nouveau. A highlight is the gloriously idiosyncratic Ferenc Raichle Palace (pictured), named after the architect who ignored all established rules to create one of the most unique buildings in the city.
Spiš Castle sprawls across a travertine hill overlooking the village of Spišské Podhradie. Dating back to at least the 12th century, it is one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe. After a Gothic renovation in the second half of the 15th, a time when the threat of invasion was minimal, it became a centre for courtly life. However, a fire in the 1780s saw it fall into ruin. Restoration began in the 1970s and the site has been UNESCO listed since 1993. Today, it is one of Slovakia's most popular attractions.
The serene beauty of Lake Bled captivates visitors throughout the seasons. The walk around it is only about three miles (5km) and almost entirely flat, meaning you can spend a delightful bit of time leisurely strolling near its edge and seeing it from new angles. You can visit the tiny Bled Island in the middle of the lake, home to the Church of the Assumption of Mary, by boarding a 'pletna', a wooden boat similar to a Venetian gondola. If you don’t mind a climb, head up to Bled Castle, the medieval fortress perched atop a cliff more than 330 feet (100m) above the lake, for spectacular views.
Situated on a plateau overlooking Granada’s Moorish old city, the Alhambra’s beauty is simply breathtaking. Once the largest political and aristocratic centre of the Muslim West, the palace contains beautiful rectangular courtyards, stunning fountains and the imposing living quarters of the Nasrid dynasty monarchs, who ruled during the 13th and 14th centuries. One of the most famous structures is the Torre de la Vela (watchtower), a spot which offers spectacular views over Granada. The Courtyard of the Lions (pictured) is considered one of the most beautiful parts of the Alhambra complex.
The twin peaks of the Lapporten, known as the Lapporten Gate, form a spectacular u-shaped mountain pass and are one of the region’s most famous landmarks. Legend has it that they were created when a Sámi with his reindeer herd had difficulty finding his way in dense fog and the mountain opened up to show him the way. The Lapporten is located in the Abisko National Park. Found 124 miles (200km) north of the Arctic Circle, deep in the ruggedly beautiful landscape of Swedish Lapland, it is renowned as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights.
A mountain so beloved and famous that it inspired the pyramid shape of Toblerone chocolate, the Matterhorn has to be Switzerland’s most iconic landmark. At 14,693 feet (4,478m) high, it towers above the timber chalet-filled Alpine resort of Zermatt. Climbing it should, of course, only be attempted by experienced alpinists. If it's spectacular views you're after though, they can be experienced via a trip on the Gornergrat Railway. The cogwheel train transports you up to 10,170 feet (3,100m) high in the mountains, an epic spot to take in the breathtaking sight of the Matterhorn, several other impressive peaks and the Gorner Glacier.
Renowned as one of Europe’s most beautiful national parks, the Lake District is famed for its rugged mountains, deep valleys, tranquil lakes and picturesque villages. Set amongst this stunning landscape, Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of the oldest and most impressive neolithic monuments in the UK. Made up of 38 stones, the site is roughly 98 feet (30m) wide and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, with the peaks of Helvellyn and High Seat forming a dramatic backdrop. Their precise function is still not known, but the mystery adds to the charm of this magical place.