Most Beautiful Destinations in Europe

From Scandinavia's striking snow-coated scenery to the charming coastlines of the Mediterranean, Europe is full of diverse and dreamy landscapes that belie its relatively small size. While its world-class capitals of London, Paris, and Rome attract the most visitors, the continent's 44 countries each have delightfully different cities and attractions to explore. With so many sublime sights and sensational scenery to see, visiting all of Europe's most beautiful destinations could take a lifetime.

Number 10. Verdon Gorge

With its blindingly bright white limestone walls and its twinkling turquoise waters, Verdon Gorge certainly makes for a beautiful sight. Located in the southeast of France, the ravine stretches more than 25 kilometers in length and at times drops to a depth of 700 meters. Sometimes billed as the 'Grand Canyon of Europe', its epic landscapes lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of outdoor activities, with hiking and kayaking particularly popular.

Number 9. Meteora.


Meaning “elevated” in Greek, Meteora is a jutting rock formation in Northern Greece – a wild landscape made up of hill-like boulders that dominate the skyline. Part of what makes that magnificent landscape so amazing, however, are the monasteries that precariously cling to the rocks. Set on cliffs with staircases cut into the very stone itself, this religious site dates back to the 15th century, and some still welcome visitors to this day. The most famous of all, the Holy Trinity Monastery, perches an amazing 400 meters atop a natural rock tower and is a breathtaking sight to set eyes on.

Number 8. Lake Bled.


Set in Northwest Slovenia close to the town of Bled is a gleaming emerald lake surrounded by stunning verdant hills. Catch one of the old wooden boats over to the small Bled Island in the middle of the lake. The island is home to the Church of the Assumption of Mary – a 17th-century building with some 15th-century gothic frescoes still intact. Around this incredibly picturesque spot, there’s also Bled Castle, but one of the best things to do in the area is to simply stroll around the lake and take a break for a swim in the calm waters.

Number 7. Sintra.


Home to grand castles, palaces, and historic villas, Sintra is a fabulous place to visit; it lies just 30 kilometers to the northwest of Lisbon. Due to its spectacular scenery, it was here that generations of Portuguese royals erected extravagant edifices atop soaring hills and mountains. Besides the romantic architecture of the Sintra and Pena Palaces, there are also lovingly landscaped gardens and luxury estates for visitors to explore, as well as the crumbling Castle of the Moors.

Number 6. Hallstatt.


Often called the 'Pearl of Austria', Hallstatt looks every bit like a fairytale town due to its spectacular setting and outstanding natural beauty. Perched between majestic mountains and a looking-glass lake, the picturesque, pastel-colored town tumbles down to the reflective waters below. Widely considered the oldest still-inhabited settlement in Europe, it has long been known for its salt deposits; various caves and mines can be visited from the town. Although usually quite crowded, ambling around scenic streets and atmospheric alleys before emerging at Hallstatt's divine waterfront with its sensational views is a magical experience.

Number 5. Santorini

The volcanic island of Santorini is probably one of the most recognized islands on Earth. Characterized by its whitewashed and blue-domed Cycladic towns hugging the caldera cliffs above the edge of the Aegean, this Greek island is world-famous for its enviable sunsets. Stroll through the alleyways of Oia town, wine and dine at gourmet tavernas, relax on the volcanic beaches, or sail off into the sunset on a glamorous catamaran cruise. As it’s one of Greece’s most expensive islands, you’ll undoubtedly rub shoulders with the rich and famous. For its views and Mediterranean climate alone, Santorini is something special.

Number 4. Lofoten Islands

Rising dramatically from the sea, the Lofoten Islands' rugged peaks, plunging fjords, and scenic beaches and coves make for an impressive sight. Located just off the northwest of Norway, the attractive archipelago is home to sheep-filled fields and untouched landscapes, with sheltered bays and sleepy fishing villages dotted about. Connected to the mainland by tunnels and bridges, the islands are fascinating and photogenic to explore, with hiking, cycling, and sailing all popular. The Lofoten Islands are also a great place to watch the marvelous Aurora Borealis light up the skies.

Number 3. Fussen.


Lying in the far south of Bavaria, the enchanting Fussen is set in a lovely spot at the foot of the Alps; it is the last stop on Germany's Romantic Road. While its well-preserved historic center is pleasant to explore, the town is mostly known for the three fabulous fairytale castles that lie in the surrounding hills and mountains. Of these, the undoubted highlight is Neuschwanstein – the magical palace that was the inspiration behind Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle. Besides its impressive historical sights, Fussen also has lots of excellent hiking trails that offer superb views of the nearby mountains, lakes, and forests.

Number 2. Amalfi Coast

Located just to the south of Naples is the Amalfi Coast - one of Italy's most alluring and attractive stretches of coastline. Rising steeply above the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean are rugged cliffs and stunning mountains, with idyllic towns and villages dotted about. As well as boasting beautiful scenery and gorgeous landscapes, there are also the pastel-colored palaces and piazzas of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello to explore. Whether lounging on a beach, hiking in the hills, or sailing along its sun-kissed shores, the beauty of the Amalfi Coast is undeniable.

Number 1. Lauterbrunnen Valley

Lined by magnificent mountains, glinting glaciers, and an astonishing 72 waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen Valley is picture-perfect. Dotted around its picturesque pastures and alpine meadows are cozy chalets and charming mountain villages, such as those of Lauterbrunnen, Murren, and Wengen. Framed by sheer cliffs and sparkling falls, the valley is a nature lover's dream, with lots of hiking trails, mountain bike paths, and rock climbing routes to explore. Its outstanding beauty and spectacular scenery make Lauterbrunnen Valley one of the most memorable places to visit in Switzerland.