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It’s impossible to imagine a modern world without Europe. Despite being the second-smallest continent, its contributions to culture are colossal—it is the birthplace of architectural movements, literary icons, fashion eras, gastronomic styles, and plenty more. Each and every one of Europe’s 44 countries offers something distinct for the near 750 million tourists who explore its varied landscapes each year.
Of course, when whittling down the best places to visit in Europe, you’re still going to end up with a considerable number of destinations on your list. By the same token, for every classic travel hub (Paris, Rome, Barcelona) there’s a lesser-visited locale equally worth your time (Cap Ferret, Basilicata, Cadaqués).
Due to the sheer diversity of Europe, there is a perfect place for every kind of traveler. From outdoor adventurers to solo travelers in pursuit of a life-changing getaway, the awe-inspiring locations ahead confirm that there is no substitute for a well-planned European holiday.
World Heritage Canals in Amsterdam
This October marks Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary, with celebrations taking place all year long in honor of the occasion. “There will be tons of festivities, from art exhibits to concerts,” Black Tomato Co-Founder and CEO Tom Marchant says. In August, SAIL Amsterdam will also take place (which only happens every five years). “You’ll be able to catch hundreds of ships sailing into the city,” he says. Also hotly anticipated is Rosewood’s foray into Amsterdam’s hotel scene, which is slated to open in June. “It’s housed in the former Palace of Justice, so it ll offer a stunning mix of modern luxury and historic charm right along the canals,” Marchant notes.
Stay Here: Step back in time at Pulitzer Amsterdam, a collection of 17th and 18th century canal houses restored to their original grandeur. When you’re not gazing out your window as boats glide past, pop into the Art Deco style bar for a craft cocktail.
Wine Tasting in Western Slovenia
“Slovenia is Europe’s best-kept secret,” Marchant says. Not for long, though. Nova Gorica (a town in Western Slovenia that shares a border with Italy) is one of 2025’s European Capitals of Culture, which is why Marchant’s team has curated an itinerary to highlight the region’s best traits. “Some of our favorite experiences include a wine safari in Brda, hiking through the alpine meadows, and exploring the underground world of the UNESCO-listed Skocjan Caves,” he says, adding that Slovenia’s 63 Michelin-rated restaurants prove the region’s food and wine scene should be on your list of destinations to explore.
Stay Here: Newly-opened Vila Muhr and boutique hotel Milka both top Marchant’s list of favorite places to stay in the area. “They offer a perfect mix of nature, culture and a little indulgence.”
Wilderness Glamping in Greenland
Though its landmass is not technically part of Europe, this autonomous territory of Denmark has close political and historical ties to the continent. “It’s an adventurer’s dream,” Marchant says of the destination. “You can swim with the icebergs, go fjord fishing in the Arctic, or hike in Kiattua Valley while foraging for Arctic herbs, berries, and mushrooms.” Among his favorite activities here is the glamping, which situates travelers up close and personal with glaciers and a night sky blanketed in twinkling stars. Also not to be missed: the food. “A Greenlandic barbeque is a must!”
Stay Here: Black Tomato’s Greenland itinerary transports travelers to the jaw-dropping shores of Disko Bay, where you’ll glamp beside icebergs at a location only accessible by boat. And these are no ordinary tents—expect ensuite bathrooms with hot showers and snug arctic linens.
Coastal Excursions in Croatia
Known for its staggeringly beautiful coastline (and as the filming location for one wildly successful HBO franchise), Croatia’s natural beauty is on an epic scale. “It’s a stunning yet underrated alternative to the more traditional Mediterranean hotspots,” Edita Sgovio, VP of yachts and villas at Kensington says. Unsurprisingly, the region has emerged as one of the top sailing and yachting destinations, where seafaring travelers can explore secluded coves, waterfront tavernas, and centuries-old settlements.
Stay Here: Villa Dubrovnik is a secluded cliffside property surrounded by maritime pines and located just over a mile from the medieval walls of its namesake city’s Old Town. If you’re beginning your sailing journey from Dubrovnik (a common choice), ease into the trip with a night or two at this spectacular property.
Neighborhood Charm in Paris
Notre-Dame! The Eiffel Tower! Jardin du Luxembourg! There’s a reason 50 million tourists flock to Paris each year—it’s a city with charm that knows no bounds. And while its landmarks are certainly a must for first-time visitors, the true appeal of Paris is found in the everyday; a quiet stroll through Montmartre, a leisurely morning coffee along Canal Saint Martin, or an afternoon nap in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. After all, the slow pace is the best pace in Paris.
Stay Here: Saint James Paris is where you stay when you want the authentic Parisian experience (with a heavy dose of ultra-luxe elegance). This château hotel is tucked away in the 16th arrondissement and oozes nostalgic charm with design by Laura Gonzalez, who fused Art Deco influences with 19th-century motifs and an abundance of antique objects.
Iconic Architecture in Puglia
Often referred to as the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is a landscape of raw beauty and intense diversity (just look to its rocky coastlines, ancient olive groves, and quiet countrysides for proof). “Puglia offers a refreshingly authentic and laid-back Italian experience,” Sgovio says, adding that its farm-to-table traditions, unspoiled beaches, and crystal-clear coastlines captivate travelers. The architecture is especially of note, and ranges from the conical trulli of the Itria Valley to the masseria fortified farmhouses found in the Salento region.
Stay Here: Masseria Calderisi is a boutique hotel set on a 17th-century farm, encircled by 24 acres of local fauna (olive groves, almond trees, herb gardens, and the like). Awash in white—as is typical of the masseria aesthetic—this 24-room property is full of natural sounds and textures, from the humming cicadas at the apero bar to the rippling waves down at the beach club.
Dramatic Coastlines in Wales
Often relinquishing attention to its more popular neighbors, Wales has long been considered a best-kept secret. “It’s a country of medieval castles, dramatic coastlines, and an emerging food and whisky scene,” Kensington’s Chantal Gouveia says. With less than a million visitors per year, it’s the perfect time to explore this underrated part of the world that’s known for its rugged national parks and ancient Celtic traditions. “Whether it’s a private castle tour, a starlit walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast, or a fireside whisky tasting in a historic manor, Wales delivers history and adventure in equal measure,” Gouveia adds.
Stay Here: Grove of Narberth is the countryside escape one might imagine when dreaming up the ideal pastoral accommodation in Wales. This boutique property offers it all—four-poster beds, roaring fireplaces, and plenty of mature gardens for peaceful afternoon strolls.
Eternal Opulence in Vienna
Land of the Habsburg dynasty, Vienna has long been associated with an air of regal opulence. “Imperial palaces, world-famous opera houses, and historic coffeehouses where time seems to stand still—it’s always been a city of grandeur,” Kensington director of product Amanda Wells says. Visitors making their way through the historic old town can opt for immersive experiences, like a morning “spent privately touring Schönbrunn Palace before the crowds arrive, while the evening could offer a behind-the-scenes look at the Vienna State Opera or a private waltz lesson in a historic ballroom.”
Stay Here: Rosewood Vienna is a glamorous 99-room property on Petersplatz (one of the most famous squares in town) and is housed within a restored Belle Époque building located on the same apartment block where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once kept a flat. How’s that for a slice of history?
Ancient Ruins in Athens
Pardon the pun, but choosing the single best destination to visit in Greece is a Herculean task, the country’s beauty is expressed across countless landscapes, from the arid Cycladic islands of the south to the Pindus mountain range (known as the “spine of Greece”). But no journey here is complete without a few days in the ancient capital of Athens. Savor the opportunity to observe thousands of years worth of history at sites like the Temple of Hephaestus, Theatre of Dionysus, and—of course—the Parthenon (just arrive early to beat the crowds).
Stay Here: Escape the rapid pace of Athens’s Psirri neighborhood with a stay at Mona. This bohemian enclave is a favorite among boutique hotel lovers and is housed within an industrial factory from the 1950s. Each of its 20 rooms is decorated in natural textures and tones and the rooftop bar is the ideal place to end each evening, overlooking the Parthenon in the distance.
Medieval Villages in Alentejo
Around 80 miles southeast of Lisbon lies Alentejo—Portugal’s rising region that’s received international attention in recent years, in part thanks to the 2023 opening of Vermelho (Christian Louboutin’s first hospitality venture) plus a home purchase by Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. “Portugal’s answer to Tuscany, Alentejo is known for its rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and a growing number of design-forward retreats,” Livia Angelini says, who is the Europe team leader at Scott Dunn. “It’s a perfect alternative for travelers looking beyond Lisbon and the Algarve,” she adds.
Stay Here: Christian Louboutin’s Vermelho (a Relais Châteaux property in the sleepy village of Melides) is a true visual feast. The exterior of the 13-room property grabs your attention with its powdery blue and white walls, while the interiors pay tribute to Louboutin’s French and Egyptian heritage.
Train Journeys in the Swiss Alps
Experience Switzerland’s legendary landscapes via rail with a ticket aboard the Glacier Express. This route began operation in 1930 and since its inauguration, has zipped passengers through spectacular scenery between Zermatt and St. Moritz in the Engadin Valley. From start to finish, the ride’s duration is eight hours, crossing almost 300 bridges and through nearly 100 tunnels. Opt for the excellence class, which includes a comfortable, dedicated seat complete with panoramic views and concierge service (plus fine dining!).
Stay Here: Upon arrival in St. Moritz, check in to the glamorous Kulm Hotel for a taste of old world splendor. This historic hotel overlooks Lake St. Moritz and is as eye-poppingly beautiful during snowcapped winter as it is throughout the spring, summer, and fall months.
Off-Road Drives in the Scottish Highlands
Mysterious and utterly picturesque, the Scottish Highlands lure in visitors with their wild landscapes of sheep-dotted hilltops and enchanting lochs. “Adventure seekers often head to the Highlands for remote, design-forward stays,” Angelini says. And with these properties (such as the famed Glenagles) comes the opportunity for a riveting off-road journey into the rugged countryside. Traversing these Highland trails is one of the best ways to experience this distinct region of Scotland, and is best complemented by an afternoon ‘dram’ to sip on a hot toddy while admiring the surrounding beauty.
Stay Here: The Fife Arms is a Scottish Highlands retreat with history dating back to the 19th century. The property was restored and reopened in 2019 by new owners Iwan and Manuela Wirth, who filled its 46 uniquely decorated rooms with an impressive collection of artwork by the likes of Pablo Picasso and Lucian Freud.
Cultural Crossroads in the Dolomites
While the Dolomites attract skiers for powdery winter months, the sawtoothed mountain region is gaining traction as a destination for the rest of the year. “Summer is emerging as the peak season,” Angelini says. Aside from its arresting beauty (did we mention the peaks are composed of limestone and glow at sunrise and sunset?), one of the most exciting aspects of the Dolomites is the cross between cultures. “They run across Northeastern Italy, with a mix of Germanic and Italian cuisine and culture,” Alison Duray of Abercrombie Kent says.
Stay Here: Ever since Forestis arrived on the Dolomites scene, it’s been a bucket list property among travelers in the know. Much of the eco-friendly lodge is crafted from local natural materials such as spruce wood and dolomite stone, including the massive spa complex that stretches across 2,000 square meters and two floors.
East Meets West in Bosnia
Sharing borders with Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro, this southeastern European country in the Balkans is often overlooked by international travelers despite its natural beauty and interesting mashup of cultures. "Visitors can hike through emerald mountain peaks, visit Ottoman-era cities, discover medieval fortresses and witness lake-studded landscapes,” Jules Verne managing director Debbie O’Neill says. “As a lesser-known destination, it’s perfect for those wanting to try somewhere in Europe beyond the already trodden path.”
Green Spaces in Berlin
A bit infamous for the nightlife and internationally recognized for its contemporary art scene, there are many different sides to Berlin. One lesser-known is the city’s impressive number of green spaces, including parks, forests, and lakes. On a sunny afternoon, head for Café am Neuen See, a leafy beer garden in the Tiergarten where you can enjoy a Pilsner and pretzel while watching the rowboats pass by.
Stay Here: Hotel Château Royal Berlin is positioned within two historic buildings from 1850 and 1910, located just steps from the Brandenburg Gate. The 93-key property’s art collection was curated by galleries Kirsten Landwehr, with no two rooms decorated alike.
Christmas Markets in Bavaria
The best European Christmas markets thread together all the components of a festive holiday setting, from stalls selling handcrafted goods to historic squares adorned in twinkling lights. In the south of Germany, the state of Bavaria is especially well-known for these markets, including one of the oldest and most famous markets in the world: Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt.
Stay Here: Schloss Elmau is a luxury property cozied in the Bavarian Alps that’s surrounded by towering peaks and thick forest. The property was originally built by a philosopher and theologian as a retreat for artists and intellectuals, and is now famous for hosting the G7 summit in 2015 and 2022.
Countryside Castles in Western Ireland
Home to the Wild Atlantic Way and characterized by its rugged terrain, western Ireland is also home to several historic castles, many of which visitors can book accommodation within. There’s Ashford Castle in County Mayo, an ultra-luxurious property originally built in 1228 and once owned by the Guinness family. Over in County Clare, discover the prestigious Dromoland Castle, which dates back several centuries to when it was the ancestral home of the O’Brien family (who were descendants of the High King of Ireland). And in between castle stays and tours, don’t miss out on natural attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren (an ancient tropical seabed).
Stay Here: Ballynahinch Castle is a Relais Chateaux hotel located on a 700-acre estate in the heart of breathtaking Connemara. The 12 Bens Mountain range serves as the backdrop to this historic property, and guests can take in the natural surroundings on one of many walking and cycling trails or even at Ballynahinch’s woodland sauna.
Vintage Shopping in London
Whether it’s for the royal gossip or the iconic art museums, London continues to draw in millions upon millions of visitors each year. One of its more niche but equally enticing attractions? The vintage shopping. Portobello Road Market is among the world’s most famous destinations for picking up a pre-loved item, but for those wanting to dig even deeper, be sure to sift through our guide to the best vintage shops all across London (including those frequented by the likes of Kate Moss and Alexa Chung).
Stay Here: Beaverbrook Town House is a 14-suite boutique hotel planted in the heart of Chelsea overlooking Cadogan Gardens. It is the sister property to Beaverbrook in Surrey Hills (a beloved countryside estate), and sits within two restored Georgian townhouses.
Sleepy Villages in Provence
For a sleepy, sun-dappled getaway to the countryside, head for the south of France to the storybook region of Provence. This area is obsessed over for its medieval hilltop towns, which are best experienced by wandering around their winding cobblestone streets, popping into small shops to purchase regional lavender products or perhaps a bottle of local rosé. There are seemingly countless hamlets and villages, a few highlights including Avignon, Roussillon, and Gordes.
Stay Here: La Colombe d Or is 20 minutes from the sea and near the top of a road that leads to the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The property originally opened in 1920 as a café bar, gradually evolving into an inn where the owner would accept art from the village’s residences in exchange for a stay or a few meals (one such neighbor including Pablo Picasso). There are 24 rooms and apartments and much of the impressive collection is still on display for guests to enjoy.
Classic Cuisine in Spanish Basque Country
Pintxos culture in Spain’s Basque Country is like no other. These small tapas-like bites are often skewered with a toothpick and include everything from spider crab and seared foie gras to the classic Gilda (anchovy, olive, and pickled pepper). If food is your main motivation for traveling, this is no doubt a bucket list destination worth carving an entire trip around.
Stay Here: Akelarre is a 22-room boutique hotel offering dazzling views of the Cantabrian Sea. The property is home to a three-Michelin-starred restaurant by chef and owner Pedro Subijana and is considered an icon of so-called new Basque cuisine.
Traditional Folklore in Romania
Ranked as one of our 10 best places to visit in 2025, Romania recently garnered attention for its appearance in Robert Eggers’s adaptation of Nosferatu. The destination is one of the fastest-growing economies in the European Union, and is worth a visit for the gastronomy alone. Thankfully, there’s a whole lot more to keep you here, including breathtaking hiking trails in the Carpathian Mountains and beaches along the Black Sea coast (referred to by some as the ‘Romanian Riviera’).
Stay Here: Corinithia Bucharest opens in March of this year in the country’s bustling capital, reimagining an 1867-era Belle Époque building. When it originally opened, it was the city’s first hotel to offer electric lights and a lift, adding to the lore of the space. There are 30 suites and a restaurant serving French and Romanian cuisine.
Design Architecture Hotspots in Copenhagen
With the rise in ‘coolcations,’ Northern Europe is continuing to garner interest from travelers in search of comfortable climates during the summer months, Duray shares. One such destination is Copenhagen, a Scandinavian city renowned for its art and architecture. The city is regarded as the heart of Danish Modernism and is also home to museums like Designmuseum Danmark and landmarks such as Henning Larsen’s Royal Danish Opera House.
Stay Here: Hotel d’Angleterre, an institution in Copenhagen, was established in 1755 and has played host to iconic figures throughout history, including Hans Christian Andersen. It’s located in Kongens Nytorv (the main city square) and is Copenhagen’s only Leading Hotel of the World. There’s a Michelin-starred restaurant on property—Marchal—and the hotel’s bar, Balthazar, was the very first Champagne bar in all of Denmark.
