10 MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN EUROPE

Europe is the second smallest continent in the world , after Australia, but it packs a punch in diversity. The wonderful thing about Europe is that there are countless places to explore - it’s a never-ending divergent mix of places and people. What's great about Europe is that it's accessible to hop from country to country within a short plane ride.

Europe is one of those places that you can happily get lost exploring, and each and every country will give you its own unique perspective and atmosphere. This small and concise continent has so much variety to offer, it would take months to properly travel through each and every country and experience everything it has to offer. If you are looking for a beautiful weekend escape or have a desire to venture through Europe to see its most beautiful locations - read our helpful guide to the 10 most beautiful places in Europe to visit. Lets get started….

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10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Greece. Image: @shkipp

INSIDE THIS GUIDE

The Greek Islands
The Greek Islands are one of the most beautiful parts of Europe by a long stretch. The views, landscapes, food, relaxed way of life, architecture and all of the 6 thousand little islands that dot around Greece are just sensational - that's why the Greek Islands come first on our top 10 most beautiful places in Europe.
These islands are a natural paradise and if you are visiting Europe in search of beautiful places then be sure to put this destination on the top of your list. The cobbled streets, white curved houses that are covered with vivid pink bougainvillea flowers are commonly found within the Greek islands. Rocky coved islands that are surrounded by deep blue waters are inviting you to explore and experience every islands uniqueness. These wonderful Greek Islands are botanically rich too - home to around 4 million wild animals and thousands of varied plant species.
With so many gorgeous islands to pick from, it’s hard to choose where to go first. We have narrowed down our three favorites to help you. Santorini, because it's ranked the most beautiful place in the world - for its incredible views, dreamy setting, blue domed chapels as well as the town bursting with traditional food and friendly locals. Zakynthos because of its world famous shipwreck (pictured above), sandy coved coastlines, fragrant olive gardens that envelope the charming village and the historical monasteries. Skopelos is a smaller island that is just as alluring - the chapel named ‘The Agios Ioannis Chapel’ was made famous in the movie ‘Mama Mia’. This lazy fishing town is known for its pure Greek charm and tradition, classical in every way from its picturesque beaches to its delightful backdrop.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Image: @johnnyafrica

2. Aeolian Islands, Italy

The majestic Aeolian Islands are situated off the coast of Sicily and widely known in Italy for being their treasured vacation spots. It’s also one of the most beautiful places in Europe for nature and we’ll tell you why.

Aside from being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these 7 different islands are made up of Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Panarea, Alicudi, Stromboli and Filicudi. They are referred to as the ‘7 pearls of the Mediterranean’. However, two of these islands have active volcanoes - Stromboli and Vulcano, and are renowned for their volcanic appearance, gorgeous beaches and stunning hiking trails.

These islands are a beloved holiday destination by Italians and even though it requires extra effort to visit them - the Italians don’t mind as they love visiting. It’s a well known fact that you can only reach the islands by boat and within some of the islands, donkeys are the only way to deliver your bags up the steep trails to your hotel.

If you are thinking of visiting these islands then you might be wondering which island is the most beautiful and we can certainly enlighten you. Salina is the most stunning of them all because of its lush green environment. It has an incredible mix of an alluring Italian village, blossoming vegetation, incredible beaches that offer amazing views of the Mediterranean seas and is an all round ideal place to relax and be at peace in the most gorgeous of settings.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Image: @bhangy

3. Sylt, Germany

The island of Sylt is Germany’s best kept secret and for good reason. This beautiful German island is the biggest island that sits at the top of the northernmost part of the North Frisian Islands and is located in the state of Schleswig-Holstein. Sylt is an idyllic paradise that is favored by many germans. Its rolling sand dunes, heathlands and rugged seascapes are the picture perfect backdrop that's waiting to be enjoyed - as soon as you set foot on the island you will feel like you are on vacation.

Even though Sylt has become pretty expensive to visit, it is well worth it and even if you swing by for a couple of days, there is still a lot of ground you can cover on the island.

If you are looking for picture postcard charm - our recommendation is to hire a bike and see the island on two wheels. Stop by the town of Kampen which is a magnet for the jet-set and one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe . The beauty of the rolling dunes, thatched houses, scenic beach front walkways and boutiques on Stromwai are a fabulous experience. If you want to head to the best looking beaches - take your pick! Why not venture to Weststrand to enjoy the white sandy beach as well as sit in the famous ‘Strandkorbe’ which are famous within the Island, Strandkorbe are comfortable blue and white striped beach baskets that are nestled on the sand that lookout to the sea - perfect for a lazy day. Also try Ellenbogen beach - you have to pay 6 Euros to gain access to it by private road but it's totally worth it. The whole island is glorious and worth the time and effort to get there.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Sylt, Germany. Image: @freshmademedia

4. Switzerland

Switzerland is known to be the most beautiful country in the world. It's a natural world paradise that offers an array of magnificent landscapes to pick from. Immaculate lakes, vibrant green valleys enveloped by a display of stunning snow capped mountains, breath-taking views and charming Swiss villages that warm your heart.

Switzerland is also an amazing place to live and not just because of its scenery, but because of the quality of life - Switzerland offers a prosperity of economic success in balance with incredible recreation time in its pristine natural environment.

The Swiss have life all worked out. The culture is to be as healthy and active as possible, whilst enjoying a fruitful life of enjoyment, friends and family, good food and travel. With such clear and positive mindsets - how could you not want their way of life to rub off on you.

Jungfraujoch is, of course, one of the most visited tourist attractions because of its pure alpine wonderland setting with incredible views. Be sure to visit Interlaken - one of the most picturesque villages in Switzerland, also encapsulated by the mighty mountains, lush green hills and traditional Swiss villages. Lastly, take a trip to Lauterbrunnen. Lauterbrunnen is located in the Bernese Alps and is a magical mountainscape of towering waterfalls, vibrant green meadows and dramatic cliffs. If you find yourself in this neck of the woods, a scenic hike is definitely in order - it will be so breath-takingly beautiful that it will be one of those hikes you will never forget. So many reasons why Switzerland is one of our 10 most beautiful places in Europe.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Image: @danielsessler

5. Capri, Italy

Locations don't get much more beautiful and iconic than Capri. Capri is a very small island with a big reputation. It lies on the coastline of Naples and is so small that it is only 2 km wide and 4 km long. Steep cliffs and mountains line the island with jagged bluffs that rise from the sea. This little island was discovered throughout the Roman empire by Emperor Augustus so there is a lot of history to uncover too.

Capri is famous for its good looks, mainly because of the renowned Faraglioni Rock. This rock on the coast of Capri is renowned for the large eroded hole within it that many sailing boats and yachts are caught meandering through. Faraglioni is a backdrop to countless fragrance and clothing campaigns so it's an absolute hot-spot. Pristine blue waters, botanical beauty and utopian surroundings fill this little island which gives it its complete charm.

Capri is a magnet for the super rich and with chic villas on lofty cliffs, super yachts and a dress code to match - who wouldn't want to be encompassed by the jet set lifestyle. Aside from enjoying every square meter this island has to offer, our recommendations are to sail through the Faraglioni Rock and to walk the trail of the Path of the Gods. This path is one of the most beautiful in the whole world. You will experience spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast, Positano and the Island of Li Galli.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Image: @adnonda

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6. Ireland

Ireland is one of the most beautiful places in Europe for nature, wild environments, diverse landscapes, vibrant green pastures and cinematic coastlines, not to mention the rich history. Ireland is a small country that boasts amazing scenery and that's why it is also voted one of the top 20 most beautiful places in Europe to visit too. If you are flying to Ireland or opting for a classic road trip around the emerald isle, then make sure you take note of the places below.

Our favorite places that are worth visiting for their sheer beauty are the Cliffs of Moher. This stunning backdrop has been the scenery for many movies. The Cliffs of Moher are situated close to Galway and are a great day's outing if you are staying in Galway. These dramatic cliffs stretch for around 5 miles along the Atlantic coastline and reach over 400 feet.

Another favorite of ours is Carrick-a-Rede. The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is a magnet for many tourists, attracting around 250 thousand visitors each year for the astounding views and exciting bridge to cross. This bridge was originally built by fishermen around 200 years ago and although it's no longer used for that, people still love to cross the 66 foot path and view the incredible sights of Rathlin Island, the Irish Sea and even as far as Scotland! If you are lucky, you may even spot a shark in the waters below too.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Image: @zeynepelifko

7. Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como in Italy is an enchanting combination of soaring mountains against the renowned Lake Como. There are two magnificent lakes in Italy that tourists flock to and Lake Como is one of them. The other is Lake Garda - equally as pretty but we find that Lake Como is the most dazzling out of the two.

There are many reasons why this location should be on your list of best places to see in Europe - aside from the gorgeously pristine lake, there are the delightful lakeside villages and historical villas which are set beautifully against the mountainous backdrop.

There are also plenty of ways to cross the lake too - by motorboat, speed boat or the traditional rowing boats that are typical to this region. If you are a foodie, you’re in great hands, the delicious Italian food is incredible here and you are sure to find many of the classic Italian dishes you love and are dying to sample.

Como also has a rich history to learn about. The period villas date back to the 18th and 19th centuries - these elegant buildings were a place for the rich to escape to on holiday. A few of them are open to the public and are well worth visiting whilst you are here - Visit Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello are two that are our favorites.

Lake Como is also known as a famous honeymoon spot. Couples can explore all of the above as well as its wonderful Italian churches where many newlyweds get married. It's one of the best places in Europe for a honeymoon as it offers grand hotels, romantic activities all in a dreamy but luxurious atmosphere.

8. The French Riviera

The French Riviera is one of the most beautiful parts of Europe and whenever you venture here, you will be sure to witness its good looks all year round. The French Riviera runs from Cannes in the west all the way to the Italian / French border in the east. The French love to visit this region and many regard it as a place of well being to improve health and happiness. The weather is pretty fantastic all year round and only gets cold in January and February, although it never gets below zero degrees. However, the sun shines throughout every month and with the sea air and beautiful towns that line the Riviera, it is a place that is wonderfully pleasing to be in its presence.

Our top picks of things to do in the French Riviera are to take a trip to St Jean Cap Ferrat - meander along its breathtaking coastlines, visit Villa Rothchild and spend the day soaking up the sun in this chic fishing village. Monaco is also a must-see, even though it is its own country. Enjoy the spills and thrills of this fast and exuberant town, place a bet in the casino and enjoy one of Monaco’s 5-star restaurants. Monaco also has three noteworthy locations worth visiting - The Prince's Palace, Cathedral de Monaco and the Exotic Garden of Monaco. Aside from these two wonderful locations, there are an array of well known villages that are just as beautiful to visit - Nice, Cannes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Eze, Porquerolles, Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Cap-d’ail. Menton is also worth seeing, situated right at the east of the French Riviera, it is a classic French village that is unassuming but very pretty. Enjoy its annual Lemon Festival and its charming winding cobbled streets, historical churches and French boutiques. All of these places are amazing to explore on land, but don't forget the French Riviera’s stunning coast where you can drift along its crystal waters and witness the beauty of the Rivera by sea.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Image: @arakotozafy

9. Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten Islands is one of the most beautiful places in Europe, it is also a very understated location that isn't crying out for attention - yet, it is so majestic in so many ways.

The stunning Lofoten Islands are situated in the far west of the Norwegian Sea, just over the Arctic Circle. The landscapes are extremely unique here and offer an array of diverse scenery to immerse yourself in. From jagged mountains, small fishing villages, intriguing Fjords and gorgeous beaches. In fact one of the most renowned beaches is located within the islands, called Haukland Beach and it's known for its picturesque beauty. Pure white sands against the soaring mountains and turquoise waters - it is a small slice of paradise in the most scenic of settings.

Of course, when in the Lofoten Islands - there are plenty of water activities to choose from. Silent cruises, fishing boat excursions, kayak tours, eagle safaris, wildlife cruises, whale watching, horse riding as well as midnight sun tours.

Aside from all of the above, there is always the Northern Lights to marvel at as well as some of our favorite things to do - stay overnight in a traditional Fisherman's Cabin also known as ‘Rorbu’. Visit the delicious cafes in and around town to sample Lofotens famous cinnamon rolls. Venture to Hennigsvaer also known to be the Hipster Town, enjoy their cool craft stores, art galleries, trendy cafes and uber chic boutique hotels. There are so many wonderful places to visit, it's waiting for you to explore it.

10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe / Image: @colin_moldenhauer

10. Croatia

Croatia is a must on your European bucket list. Situated in the southeast of Europe, Croatia boasts a multitude of geographically diverse landscapes. Over a thousand islands encompass this wonderful country as well as highlights of plunging waterfalls, historical National Parks, flourishing forests and some of the best beaches in the world. One of the most famous beaches is Brac’s Zlatni Rat, which also goes by the name of the Golden Cape. You’ll find this beach to be an unusually pointed shape (see image to the right) and whenever you go, depending on the tide - it will always look slightly different.

Croatia also has a fantastic climate all year round with around 2500 hours of sunlight a year, which adds to the many wonderful things to enjoy here. From delicious food and drink, fascinating history, interesting culture and long stretches of impressive coastline. If you want to soak in all the gorgeous little islands then our advice is take a sailing tour around the islands to see as many as possible from afar. We also suggest visiting the island of Hvar. It's definitely an island to ‘be seen’ at and attracts the ‘it’ crowd that like to drink and party, however there are some quieter spots that are stunning and worth visiting. Hiking is great here and there are many opportunities to enjoy a peaceful and scenic hike. Hvar has some idyllic beaches - take a trip to Pokonji Dol or Milna and be sure to venture to the old town of Stari Grad too.

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10 Most Beautiful Places In Europe