European tourism caters to travelers and tourists from different phases of life. It brings in the best of all indulgences combined to offer a holistic holiday experience. Be it the romantic Eiffel Tower or the majestic Buckingham Palace, the ancient ruins of the Colosseum, or the grand Acropolis of Athens, each attraction in Europe has a story to be uncovered during your visit. With just one Schengen visa, you can visit the Schengen area countries in Europe all in one go. As you browse different European destinations, you will explore numerous diverse cultures, varied languages, exceptional art & architecture, gorgeous castles, contrasting spaces, ancient sites, and mind-blowing attractions. Let’s take you through the best European countries to visit as you look to embark on your European adventure.
Best European countries that should be a part of your travel itinerary
The Schengen Area countries in Europe continues to hog the limelight. But there is much more to explore in Europe than the Schengen Area.
Southern Europe
Southern Europe carries an impeccable charm and elegance through its mountainous terrain, fragmented islands, and plateau landscapes. Let’s take you through the best Southern European destinations you must visit during your holiday.
Albania
This southern European country is renowned for its unspoiled coastline, traditional cuisine, ancient sites, mountainous terrains, and wild inhabited countryside. It attracts several tourists and travelers who are looking to explore more deeply.
Top destinations to visit – Berat, Butrint, Ksamil, The Albanian Alps, and Tirana
The best local cuisine to savor – Tave Kosi, Fergese of Tirana, Borek, Kofta, Flija, and Petulla.
The best festivals to participate in are – Korca Beer Festival, South Outdoor Festival, Gjirokaster National Park, and Kala Festival.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
This southern European country has numerous landscape highlights, such as glacial lakes, vivacious communities, and a diverse cultural heritage ideal for a relaxing holiday.
Top destinations to visit – Sarajevo, Mostar, Medjugorje, Blagaj, and Neum.
The best local cuisine to savor – Cevapi, Dolma, Japrak, Burek, Sirnica, and Bosnian Coffee
The best festivals to participate in are – Sarajevo Film Festival, Jazz Fest Sarajevo, Bascarsija Nights, Demofest, and Festival 84.
Croatia
This beautiful destination is blessed with mind-blowing and scintillating pebbled beaches surrounded by crystal-clear waters. As you move to the inner parts of this beautiful country, you will get a glimpse of its fabulous landscapes, rich history, and impeccable local cuisine.
Top destinations to visit – Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Diocletian’s Palace, Pula, and Brac’s Zlatni Rat.
The best local cuisine to savor – Zagreb schnitzel, Buzara, Scoparnik, Black risotto, and Brudet.
The best Festivals to participate in are – Hideout Festival, Sonus Festival, Outlook Festival, Split Summer Festival, and Sea Star Festival.
Greece
No matter which part of the globe you belong to, the mountainous cliffs, historical ruins and monuments, scenic beaches, and picturesque islands will blow your mind away. It is among the ideal holiday destinations.
Top destinations to visit – Athens, Mykonos, Corfu, Santorini, and Rethymnon.
The best local cuisine to savor – Tzatziki, Cheese Pie, Greek Salad, Spinach Pie, and Moussaka.
The best festivals to participate in are – Epiphany, All Saints’ Day, Orthodox Easter, Ohi Day, and Athens Epidaurus Festival.
Italy
Italy, a boot-shaped southern European country, is renowned for its amazing architecture, rich culture, art galleries, literature, film, Ferrari, fashion, ancient sites, museums, and scenic vistas that have played a significant part in Italian tourism.
Top destinations to visit – Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, and Cinque Terre.
The best local cuisine to savor – Pasta, Pizza, Gelato and Dolce, Risotto, Polenta, and cured meats.
The best festivals to participate in are – Carnevale, Infiorata Festival, Palio di Siena, Game of the Bridge, and Battle of Oranges.
Kosovo
A fascinating mixture of quaint mountain towns dotted with incredible architectural styles, unique cultural heritage, and scenic vistas, Kosovo is a great place to be if you are into hiking, and other adventurous sports.
Top destinations to visit – Pristina, Gjakova, Peja, Prizren, and Mitrovica.
The best local cuisine to savor – Legumes, Sarma, stuffed peppers, qebapa, and sauerkraut.
The best festivals to participate in are – Dokufest, Prishtina Jazz Festival, Sunny Hill Festival, Prishtina International Film Festival, and Prifilmfest.
Montenegro
Blessed with a fabulous mountainous terrain, charming ancient towns, busy markets and squares, world-class ski resorts, and untouched nature elements, Montenegro has a special place in every tourist or visitor’s heart who browses through the top European destinations.
Top destinations to visit – Kotor, Perast, Durmitor National Park, Podgorica, and Budva.
The best local cuisine to savor – Buzara, Cevapi, Gibanica, Black risotto, and Njeguski.
The best festivals to participate in are – Lake Fest, The Rest of Boka Bay, Mimosa Festival, Sea Dance Festival, and International Fashion Festival.
North Macedonia
This southern European destination is heavily dependent on tourism for its smooth economy. The impeccable natural and cultural attractions make it ideal for enjoying a rejuvenating and refreshing holiday.
Top destinations to visit – Skopje, Mavrovo, Ohrid, Tetovo, and Bitola.
The best local cuisine to savor – savory pastry, Pindur, Lutenica, Ajvar, and Sarma.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Skopje Jazz Festival, Galicnik Wedding Festival, Ohrid Summer Festival, Manaki Brothers Film Festival, and Strumica Carnival.
Portugal
This beautiful European country has fascinating natural elements, magnificent mountains, busy neighborhoods, and sublime architecture. No matter which part of the world you are from, Portugal assures you a fascinating holiday experience.
Top destinations to visit – Lisbon, Lagos, Faro, Madeira, and Porto
The best local cuisine to savor – Bacalhau a Bras, Leitao Assado, Polvo a Lagereiro, Francesinha, and Sardinhas Assadas.
The best festivals to participate in are – NOS Alive, Festas de Lisboa, Super Block Super Rock, Rock in Rio, and Primavera Sound Porto.
Serbia
Serbia is a beautiful European destination with its vivacious nightlife, impressive history, fascinating gastronomical elements, genuine hospitality, amazing art, and culture, along with several untouched nature elements, making it a popular tourist destination.
Top destinations to visit – Belgrade, Tara, Nis, Novi Sad, and Subotica.
The best local cuisine to savor – Sarma, Gibanica, Burek, Cevapi, and Prebranac.
The best festivals to participate in are – Exit Festival, Nisville Jazz Festival, Assembly of Trumpeters in Guca, Beer Fest, and Lovefest.
Spain
Spain is among the happening European destinations renowned for its impeccable art, culture, iconic landmarks, rich cultural traditions, gorgeous sandy beaches, flamenco dancing, bullfighting, and delightful gastronomical treats.
Top destinations to visit – Barcelona, Seville, Ibiza, Madrid, and Majorca.
The best local cuisine to savor – Paella, Patatas bravas, Gazpacho, Tortilla, and Churros.
The best festivals to participate in are – Semana Santa, Las Fallas, Feria de Sevilla, San Fermin, and Tomatina Tomato Fight.
Western Europe
Western European destinations are bounded by common values such as democracy and freedom with other popular countries such as the US and Japan. They play a key role in creating a shared interest in developing a free trade system with the region.
Belgium
Belgium is a beautiful European destination with fabulous architectural marvels, incredible museums, iconic music festivals, exotic beers, rich chocolate, and fascinating landscapes.
Top destinations to visit – Brussels, Ardennes, Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges
The best local cuisine to savor – Pom koek, Cuberdon, Moules frites, Speculoos, and Waffles.
The best festivals to participate in are – Bruges Beer Festival, Gent Jazz Festival, Zinneke Parade, Carnaval de Binche, and Tomorrowland.
France
Every European holiday itinerary will feature the best country in Europe to visit – be it for the Cannes Film Festival, Tour de France, the fashion capital of the world, the French Alps, or its ethnic and cultural diversity. There are several reasons why people flock to the shores of France.
Top destinations to visit – Paris, Marseille, Bordeaux, Nice, and French Riviera.
The best local cuisine to savor – Baked Reblochon Cheese, Diots au Vin Blanc, Gratin de Crozets, Omble Chevalier, and Fondue Savoyarde.
The best festivals to participate in are – Tour de France, Cannes Film Festival, Nice Carnival, Festival d’Avigon, and Bastille Day.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg has always featured in every top European destination itinerary. It features a rich blend of ancient fortresses, cosmopolitan elegance, luxurious lifestyle, and fabulous landscapes. You will find numerous bike and hiking trails where you can always explore your inner adventurist.
Top destinations to visit – The five regions of Luxembourg are Guttland, Eislek, Mullerthal, Moselle, and Minett.
The best local cuisine to savor – Gromperekichelcher, Kachkeis, Bamkuch, boxemannchen, and Rieslingspaschteit.
The best festivals to participate in are – Christmas markets, Buergbrennen, Schueberfouer, Luxembourg festival, and Dancing Procession of Echternach.
Netherlands
The world-famous canals, incredible natural beauty, exotic beer, fine cheese, vibrant cities, scenic countryside, ancient sites, and rich culture make the Netherlands among the top European destinations to uncover during your European holiday.
Top destinations to visit – Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, Maastricht, and The Hague.
The best local cuisine to savor – Stroopwafel, Pannenkoeken, Poffertjes, Kroket, and Bitterballen.
The best festivals to participate in are – Amsterdam Dance Event, Holland Festival, Amsterdam Gay Pride, Amsterdam Light Festival, and Mysteryland.
Northern Europe
Blessed with fascinating nature elements, Northern Europe stands among the exotic frontiers of the entire European region. Traditions and independent people make up the key aspects of this region. The best Northern European destinations to uncover are as follows:
Denmark
A gorgeous holiday destination renowned for its impeccable beaches, charming hills & mountains, pilgrimages where you can search for inner peace, amazing cultural heritage, relaxation and rejuvenation opportunities, and plenty of romantic stays.
Top destinations to visit – Copenhagen, Odense, Aarhus, Skagen, and Aalborg.
The best local cuisine to savor – Wenerbrod, Smorrebrod, Stegt Flaesk Med Persillesovs, Kartofler, and Frikadeller.
The best festivals to participate in are – Copenhagen Jazz Festival, Distortion, Copenhell, Aarhus Festival, and Roskilde Festival.
England
Home to some of the best scenic vistas worldwide, many people flock to the shores of England to experience the grand old buildings, unique cultural heritage, mind-blowing natural landscapes, beautiful countryside, and fascinating museums.
Top destinations to visit – London, Bristol, Glasgow, Edinburg, and Manchester.
The best local cuisine to savor – Eton Mess, Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips, Beef Wellington, and Cornish Pasty.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Latitude Festival, Green Man Festival, Isle of Wight Festival, Glastonburg Festival, and Wilderness Festival.
Estonia
Nestled amidst the Baltic Sea, Estonia has plenty of untouched natural elements vying for tourist attention. Be it the vast and dense forests, ancient architecture maintained in excellent condition, museums, incredible natural landscapes, or cuisine.
Top destinations to visit – Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park, Tartu, Haapsalu, and Parnu.
The best local cuisines to savor – Pirukad, Mulgipuder, Vastiakukkel, Rye bread, and Sprat Sandwich.
The best festivals to participate in are – Tallinn Music Week, Viljandi Folk Music Festival, Grillfest, Leigo Lake Music Festival, Saaremaa Opera Days.
Finland
This Northern European country is renowned for its scenic lakes, pristine forests, relaxing saunas, reindeer, and fascinating northern lights. No matter your tastes and preferences, Finland tourism has a charming and unique way to fulfill your travel desires.
Top destinations to visit – Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, Rovaniemi, and Oulu.
The best local cuisine to savor – Bread cheese, Karelian pasties, Classic Finnish rye bread, Sauted reindeer, and creamy salmon soup.
The best festivals to participate in are – Flow Festival, Helsinki Festival, Pori Jazz, Ruisrock, and Kaustinen Folk Music Festival.
Iceland
This European country has many strange references, which makes it among the best European destinations to uncover. Be it its active volcanoes, rich culture, incredible landscapes, impeccable regional biodiversity, or scenic landscapes.
Top destinations to visit – Reykjavik, Akureyri, Thingvellir National Park, Myvatn, and Jokulsarlon.
The best festivals to participate in are – Iceland Airwaves, Tomorrowland, Eistnaflug, Aldrei for eg suour, and Reykjavik Pride.
Ireland
This beautiful Northern European destination, the Emerald Isle, is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, warm and friendly population, gorgeous gardens, majestic churches, amazing arts and crafts scene, impeccable heritage, and delicious food and beverages.
Top destinations to visit – Dublin, Killarney, Kilkenny, Cork, and Galway.
The best local cuisine to savor – Soda bread, boxty, Irish stew, shellfish, and Colcannon and champ.
The best festivals to participate in are – St. Patrick’s Day, Puck Fair, Galway International Arts Festival, Fleadh Cheoil nah Eireann, and International Literature Festival.
Latvia
The long Latvian coastline has fascinating beaches, pristine pine forests, busy central markets, the ideal spa getaway, and amazing Latvian cuisine. You can uncover the best of Latvia with a budget friendly guide to tour Europe and its beautiful countries.
Top destinations to visit – Riga, Sigulda, Cesis, Jurmala, and Liepaja.
The best local cuisines to savor – Grey peas and bacon, Potato pancakes, Cabbage soup, Rye bread, and Smoked fish.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Latvian Song and Dance Festival, Positivus Festival, Summer Sound Festival, Riga City Festival, and Jani.
Lithuania
This Northern European country features a historical legacy of the Grand Duchy, one of the prime tourism highlights of Lithuania. The rich history, pristine nature elements, gorgeous seaside, amazing spa resorts, and impressive architecture are some of the best things to explore here.
Top destinations to visit – Vilnius, Trakai, Klaipeda, Kaunas, and Palanga.
The best local cuisines to savor – Fried Bread Sticks, Lithuanian cheese with honey, Kibinai, Cold Beetroot Soup, and Cepelinai.
The best festivals to participate in are – Trakai, Vilnius Festival, Culture Night, Lithuanian Song and Dance Festival, and Pazaislis Music Festival.
Norway
This gorgeous Northern European country is known for its beautiful lakes, fabulous fjords, soaring white mountains, adventurous excursions, and emerald green forests.
Top destinations to visit – Oslo, Tromso, Tromso Municipality, Bergen, and Stavanger.
The best local cuisine to savor – Alesund, Brunost, Waffles with brunost, Norwegian salmon, and Jarlsberg.
The best festivals to participate in are – Norwegian Constitution Day, Bergenfest, Oslo Jazzfestival, Ladehammer Festival, and Northern Lights Festival.
Sweden
If you are a nature lover, you will love exploring Sweden. The majority of its landscape is decorated with dense forests. It is also home to more than 260,000 islands and 100,000 lakes. In addition, brands such as Ikea and Volvo are native to Sweden.
Top destinations to visit – Stockholm, Kiruna, Gothenburg, Malmo Municipality, and Uppsala.
The best local cuisine to savor – Godis, Husmanskost, Toast Skagen, Foraged berries, and Oat milk latte.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Stockholm Jazz Festival, Goteborg Film Festival, Walpurgisnacht, Gothenburg Culture Festival, and Stockholm Pride.
Eastern Europe
The Eastern European destinations play a major role in representing the rich European culture. The best European destinations to uncover are as follows:
Bulgaria
This country is among the top Eastern European countries to visit with its vivacious nightlife and entertainment options, crystal-clear seas, majestic mountainous terrains, and pristine sandy beaches.
Top destinations to visit – Sofia, Bansko, Burgas, Varna, and Plovdiv.
The best local cuisine to savor – Banitsa, Shopska Salata, Meshana Skara, Tarator, and Sarmi.
The best festivals to participate in are – The International Bulgarian Festival of Masquerade Games in Pernik, Cherry Festival, Humour Carnival, Wake Up Open Air Festival, and Festival of Roses.
Czech Republic
This Eastern European country is called the Heart of Europe. Its rich cultural history, world-class beer, fairy-tale castles, vibrant cities, diverse architecture, and charming towns have often captivated the tourist audience.
Top destinations to visit – Prague, Karlovy Vary, Brno, Kutna Hora, and Cesky Krumlov.
The best local cuisine to savor – Roast port with dumplings and cabbage, Chlebicky, Gulas, Bramboracka s bramboraky, and Tatarak s topinkami.
The best festivals to participate in are – Pilsner Fest, Colors of Ostrava, Prague Spring International, Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, and Prague Fringe Festival.
Hungary
Every Hungarian destination has a story to be uncovered. Be it charming cities like the Danube and Budapest, local folk art scenes, thermal spas, nature vistas, modern shopping destinations, delightful Hungarian cuisine, and much more.
Top destinations to visit – Budapest, Eger, Szeged, Lake Balaton, and Pecs
The best local cuisine to savor – Gulyasleves, Fozelek, Lecsco Classic Hungarian Comfort Food, Rakott krumpli, and Toltott kaposzta.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Budapest Spring Festival, O.Z.O.R.A Festival – Bar, VOLT Festival, Balaton Sound, and Sziget Festival.
Romania
This Eastern European destination is renowned for its fascinating cultural heritage, ancient landmarks, fabulous food, iconic legends like Dracula, and amazing nature elements.
Top destinations to visit – Bucharest, Sighisoara, Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, and Brasov.
The best cuisine to savor – Sarmale, Mititei, Miel, Tochitura, and Hribi cu mamaliga.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Transilvania International Film Festival, Sighisoara Medieval Festival, Electric Castle, George Enescu Festival, and Neversea Beach.
Central Europe
The Central European destinations are heavily populated and industrialized but are blessed with iconic landmarks and impeccable natural vistas. The best Central European destinations are as follows:
Austria
A beautiful Central European country that has impressed the tourist audience with its rich culture and fascinating natural vistas. Be it the Alpine landscapes, world-class ski resorts, ancient cities, charming villages, or the delicious cuisine to savor.
Top destinations to visit – Vienna, Hallstatt, Graz, Innsbruck, and Salzburg.
The best local cuisine to savor – Linzer Cake, Apricot Dumplings, Wiener Schnitzel, Vorarlberg Mountain Cheese, and Sacher Cake.
The best festivals to participate in are – Vinnale, Vienna Festival Weeks, Salzburg Festival, Danube Island Festival, and Castle Grafenegg Music Festival.
Germany
Germany has an incredible landscape ranging from dense forests, steep and rugged mountains, and gentle plains. The deeper you go into Germany, the more you will experience the inner beauty of this beautiful country and its immensely amazing culture.
Top destinations to visit – Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Munich, and Hamburg.
The best local cuisine to savor – Currywurst, Eintopf, Kartoffelpuffer & Brakartoffeln, Schnitzel, and Rouladen.
The best festivals to participate in are – Karneval in Cologne, Weihnachtsmarkt in Berlin, Wurstmarkt in Bad Durkheim, Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart, and Berlinale Film Festival in Berlin.
Liechtenstein
Snuggled between Switzerland and Austria, this tiny Central European country has steep and rugged mountain ranges above the Rhine River. Governed by an iron-willed monarch, Liechtenstein’s landscape is decorated with turreted castles and embedded deep into the Alps.
Top destinations to visit – Vaduz, Triesen, Balzers, Malbun, and Steg.
The best local cuisine to savor – Kasknopfle, Kratzer, Schnitzel, Dreikonigskuchen, and Ribel.
The best festivals to participate in are – Vaduz Classic, LiGiTa, Concert Series SOL – Sinfonieorchester, LGT Alpin Marathon, and FL1.LIFE.
Moldova
This tiny Central European country is renowned for its rich diversity of cultural heritage and traditions, wineries, antique sites, monasteries, scenic landscapes, adventurous activities, and numerous bed & breakfast networks.
Top destinations to visit – Tipova Monastery, Saharna, Cricova Winery, Orheiul Vechi, and Chisinau.
The best local cuisine to savor – Garlic and mamaliga, sour cream, brinza, fried fish, and Zeama.
The best festivals to participate in are – Labor Day, Independence Day, Sweet Acacia Flower Music Contest, Victory Day, and Night of Museums.
Poland
Poland has many tastes – adventure, international relaxation, romantic and honeymoon, wildlife, majestic hills & mountains, gorgeous beaches, trekking and hiking opportunities, and a rich cultural heritage.
Top destinations to visit – Warsaw, Lublin, Torun, Krakow, and Katowice.
The best local cuisine to savor – Pierogi, Zurek, Barszcz, Rosol, and Placki Ziemniaczane.
The best festivals to participate in are – Krakow Live Festival, Open’er Festival, Wianki, Orange Warsaw Festival, and INTRO Festival.
Slovakia
This tiny country in Central Europe has fascinating mountains, ancient towns, charming castles, incredible natural surroundings, and a rich cultural heritage. Slovakia was split from Czechoslovakia in 1993, where it gained independence.
Top destinations to visit – Bratislava, Banska Stiavnica, Banska Bystrica, High Tatras, and Kosice.
The best local cuisine to savor – Potato dumplings, sheep cheese, goulash, sauerkraut soup, and Dobru chut.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Folklore Festival Vychodna, Pohoda Festival, Viva Musica, and Grape Festival.
Switzerland
The land nestled between several top European destinations makes a place in the European continent with its pristine natural beauty. The charming villages, picturesque peaks of the Alps, and scenic lakes make it among the top romantic destinations worldwide.
Top destinations to visit –Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Bern, and Lucerne.
The best local cuisine to savor – Cheese Fondue, Raclette, Tarts. and Quiches, Alplermagronen, and Landjager.
The best festivals to participate in are – The Montreux Jazz Festival, Carnival of Basel, Zurich Openair, Paleo Festival, and Gurtenfestival.