From the tip of Scotland to the Mediterranean coast, Europe boasts ancient hamlets, majestic mountain ranges, world-class architectural marvels, and beaches celebrated for their pristine white sands and turquoise seas.
With such abundance, pinpointing the top 20 European gems is no easy task. To do so, I consulted with two travel connoisseurs: Jim Strong, a Travel + Leisure Travel Advisory Board member and the head of Strong Travel Services, and Emma Major Schroeder, proprietor and luxury travel consultant at Major Traveler. Here are their picks, along with some of my personal favorites.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como’s allure is widely recognized, and for good reason. Schroeder asserts, “It’s one of the planet’s most stunning spots, with the serene lake set against the backdrop of imposing mountains.” She adds, “A private boat ride lets you immerse in the scenery’s splendor.”
Corfu, Greece
Arriving in Corfu, the word “utopia” immediately springs to mind. Nature’s grandeur is on full display, from the clear blue waters to the rugged peaks, all accessible via the Corfu Trail. The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its fortresses, palaces, and narrow kantounia alleys, should not be missed.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden, England
“Kent is known as the ‘Garden of England,’ and Sissinghurst Castle lives up to that name,” Strong remarks. The garden’s lawns and terraced wildflowers are a feast for the soul, and the grounds offer tranquility in any weather, with spring and summer being the prime seasons. The garden, created in the 1930s, boasts different “rooms” showcasing diverse designs and planting techniques.
Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland
In Switzerland’s Bern region lies the Lauterbrunnen Valley, which Strong praises for its awe-inspiring vistas of mountains and waterfalls. Quaint villages like Wengen and Lauterbrunnen add to the charm, with cable cars and historic trains enhancing the experience.
Pienza, Italy
Situated in Tuscany, Pienza is a petite hilltop town famous for its Pecorino cheese. Schroeder describes it as a place where “Tuscan hills roll into view at every corner.” The historic heart of Pienza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering the perfect spot for an aperitivo with a view.
Dinant, Belgium
Nestled in Belgium’s Walloon region, Dinant is perched on the River Meuse’s edge. The city, with its blend of natural and man-made wonders, such as the Collegiate Church of Our Lady of Dinant and the Bayard Rock, is a captivating destination.
Bacharach, Germany
“Bacharach, with its rich history on the Rhine, is the epitome of a European dream,” Strong declares. The village’s medieval architecture and half-timbered buildings are straight out of a fairy tale. The vineyards outside the village provide an added bonus.
Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia and Albania
While often overlooked, Lake Ohrid’s sparkling waters and ancient history, along with its surrounding villages and beaches, make it a hidden gem worth discovering. The lake, straddling the border between Albania and North Macedonia, is also home to an ancient stilt village.
“Wee Mad Road,” Scotland
Strong suggests venturing to Scotland’s north and driving the “Wee Mad Road” for some of the Highlands’ most dramatic and unique scenery. Part of the North Coast 500, this coastal stretch rewards the adventurous with expansive views.
Spiaggia dei Conigli, Italy
Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbit Beach, is not only one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches but also one of Europe’s most stunning destinations. Its curved beach, calm waters, and white sands offer the perfect summer retreat.
Annecy, France
France’s Lake Annecy, with its clear waters and mountain streams, is a swimmer’s paradise. The Old Town of Annecy, known as the “Venice of France,” is a charming spot to explore canals, bridges, and landmarks.
Naoussa, Greece
Naoussa, on the island of Paros, offers a blend of old and new. Schroeder explains, “You have a traditional fishing harbor alongside modern restaurants and boutiques.” The village’s architecture, with its cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings, is a sight to behold.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg’s charm extends beyond the sites made famous by “The Sound of Music. The city’s higher elevations provide breathtaking views, and the Christmas markets are magical in winter.
Ronda, Spain
Ronda, in Spain’s Andalusia region, is known for its dramatic bridge connecting the New and Old Towns. Schroeder describes the town’s cliffside views and springtime bougainvillea as adding vibrant pops of color.
Värmland, Sweden
Sweden’s lake district, Värmland, with its numerous lakes and the Klarälven river, is ideal for water-based activities. The region’s beauty is particularly striking in winter, when snow transforms it into a winter wonderland.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Accessible only by boat or helicopter, the Lofoten Islands above the Arctic Circle offer picturesque fishing villages and, in winter, unparalleled views of the Northern Lights.
South Tyrol, Italy
South Tyrol’s mountain peaks, including the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, provide endless opportunities for hiking and skiing. The picturesque villages and vineyards below add to the area’s allure.
The Azores, Portugal
The Azores, known as the “Hawaii of Europe,” boast dramatic landscapes with crater lakes, hot springs, and lush forests. São Miguel’s twin lakes of Sete Cidades showcase the region’s unique volcanic beauty.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona stands out for its art and architecture, blending Gothic structures with Gaudí’s modernist works. The city’s natural beauty is on display at Barceloneta Beach, Creueta del Coll Park, and Tibidabo.
Keukenhof, Netherlands
Keukenhof, labeled as the world’s most beautiful spring garden, is the place to see the Netherlands’ famous tulips. The garden’s brief but spectacular blooming period makes it a must-see during mid-April to mid-May.
