27 Most Scenic Destinations To Travel In Europe | Europe Travel Guide

EUROPE

Europe is a continent filled with breathtaking and unique landscapes, from majestic mountains to charming medieval towns, luxurious beaches, colorful fields of flowers, majestic limestone cliffs, snow-capped peaks, and endless green landscapes. Despite being one of the smaller continents, Europe offers countless travel options that cater to every type of traveler. Join us on an extraordinary journey with World Travel Picks to explore the dramatic Dolomites, walk under the midnight sun in Finland, and breathe in the misty air of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall in Iceland.

Number 27: Trolltunga 

Trolltunga is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring cliffs in Europe. Located about 1100 meters above sea level and approximately 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet in Norway, this stunning mountain was shaped during the ice age, about 10,000 years ago. Its vast popularity has turned it into a national icon and major tourist attraction. The hiking season lasts from the 1st of June to the 31st of August, offering travelers a chance to experience its breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights:

• Awe-inspiring cliff in Norway, located 1100 meters above sea level and 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet.
• Shaped during the ice age, about 10,000 years ago.
• National icon and major tourist attraction.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Hiking season from June 1st to August 31st.
• Activities: Plan for a full day hike; ensure you have proper gear and supplies.
• Photography: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the dramatic drop and surrounding scenery.

Number 26: Las Medulas 

Las Medulas, an ancient gold mining site in Northern Spain, offers visitors a chance to experience picturesque landscapes with rare geological formations. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Las Medulas dates back to the 1st century when the Romans extracted over 800 tons of gold from the area. The red pinnacles and rolling green hills create a mesmerizing backdrop for visitors.

Highlights:

• Ancient gold mining site in Northern Spain with rare geological formations.
• Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
• Dates back to the 1st century when the Romans extracted over 800 tons of gold.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and hiking conditions.
• Activities: Take a guided tour to learn about the mining history; hike the trails for views of the red pinnacles.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the landscape.

Number 25: Bay of Kotor 

The Bay of Kotor, located in southwestern Montenegro, is a winding bay of the Adriatic Sea. Known for its well-preserved medieval towns and natural surroundings, the bay was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The green mountains and pastel-colored buildings provide an epic backdrop to the dark blue waters, making it a major tourist attraction in the region.

Highlights:

• Located in southwestern Montenegro, a winding bay of the Adriatic Sea.
• Known for well-preserved medieval towns and natural surroundings.
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Activities: Explore the old town of Kotor; take a boat tour of the bay.
• Local experiences: Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants; hike to the Kotor Fortress for panoramic views.

Number 24: Landmannalaugar 

Landmannalaugar, situated in Iceland’s southern highlands, is renowned for its stunning and uniquely beautiful rock formations. The vibrant shades of pink, red, green, blue, and golden yellow create an otherworldly landscape. The area is surrounded by lava fields, geothermal hot springs, and hiking trails, attracting adventurous travelers throughout the summer.

Highlights:

• Situated in Iceland’s southern highlands, renowned for stunning and unique rock formations.
• Vibrant shades of pink, red, green, blue, and golden yellow create an otherworldly landscape.
• Surrounded by lava fields, geothermal hot springs, and hiking trails.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Summer for accessible roads and hiking trails.
• Activities: Hike the Laugavegur Trail; relax in the natural hot springs.
• Photography: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vast and colorful landscape.

Number 23: Picos de Europa 

Picos de Europa, part of the Cantabrian Mountains in Northern Spain, offers some of the most picturesque sceneries in the country. With peaks like Torre de Cerrado, this mountain range is home to grand castles, abbeys, lakes, and some of the deepest caves in the world. It’s a perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Part of the Cantabrian Mountains in Northern Spain, offers picturesque sceneries.
• Home to peaks like Torre de Cerrado, grand castles, abbeys, lakes, and deep caves.
• Perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for the best hiking conditions.
• Activities: Hike the Cares Gorge trail; visit the Covadonga Lakes and Sanctuary.
• Local experiences: Try the regional cuisine, including Cabrales cheese.

Number 22: Seljalandsfoss 

Seljalandsfoss, a powerful waterfall along the southern coast of Iceland, cascades over steep cliffs surrounded by impressive natural landscapes. The waterfall is fed by melting water from the Eyjafjallajokull volcano and is one of Iceland's most famous and visited falls. The vast cavern and rocks behind the falls add to its charm.

Highlights:

• Powerful waterfall along the southern coast of Iceland, cascades over steep cliffs.
• Fed by melting water from the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, one of Iceland's most famous falls.
• The vast cavern and rocks behind the falls add to its charm.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and access to trails.
• Activities: Walk behind the waterfall for a unique perspective; explore nearby Gljúfrabúi waterfall.
• Photography: Use a waterproof camera or case for shots behind the falls.

Number 21: Yorkshire Dales 

Yorkshire Dales, an upland area in Northern England, is designated as a national park since 1954. The region is known for its grand castles, abbeys, peaks, waterfalls, and extensive limestone cave systems. The peaceful atmosphere and picturesque trails make it an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Highlights:

• Upland area in Northern England, designated as a national park since 1954.
• Known for grand castles, abbeys, peaks, waterfalls, and extensive limestone cave systems.
• Peaceful atmosphere and picturesque trails make it ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Spring and summer for blooming landscapes and pleasant weather.
• Activities: Visit the Bolton Abbey; hike the Malham Cove and Gordale Scar trails.
• Local experiences: Explore the charming villages and enjoy traditional Yorkshire tea.

Number 20: Kirkjufell 

Kirkjufell, located on the north shore of the Snaefellsness peninsula in Iceland, is the most photographed mountain in the country. Known as the Church Mountain due to its shape, it changes its appearance with the seasons, making it picture-perfect year-round. The nearby waterfall enhances its beauty, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Highlights:

• Most photographed mountain in Iceland, located on the north shore of the Snaefellsness peninsula.
• Known as the Church Mountain due to its shape, it changes appearance with the seasons.
• Nearby waterfall enhances its beauty, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for milder weather and clear views.
• Activities: Hike to the summit for panoramic views; explore the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the mountain.

Number 19: Seven Rila Lakes 

The Seven Rila Lakes, situated in the Rila Mountain of Bulgaria, are a group of stunning glacial lakes. Each lake has a unique shape and quality, with names like Eye Lake, Fish Lake, Twin Lake, Tear Lake, and Trefoil Lake. The region offers magnificent hiking trails and spectacular viewpoints, making it a must-visit destination.

Highlights:

• Group of stunning glacial lakes situated in the Rila Mountain of Bulgaria.
• Each lake has a unique shape and quality, with names like Eye Lake, Fish Lake, Twin Lake, Tear Lake, and Trefoil Lake.
• Offers magnificent hiking trails and spectacular viewpoints.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall when the hiking trails are most accessible.
• Activities: Take a guided hike to learn about the lakes’ history; visit the nearby Rila Monastery.
• Photography: Sunrise or sunset for the best light on the lakes.

Number 18: Zlatni Rat 

Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn or Golden Cape, is the most famous beach on the Adriatic. Located along the southern coastline of Brac in Croatia, this stunning golden pebble beach stretches up to half a kilometer into the sea. Its shape often changes due to high winds and sea waves, adding to its unique charm.

Highlights:

• Most famous beach on the Adriatic, located on Brac in Croatia.
• Stunning golden pebble beach stretches up to half a kilometer into the sea.
• Its shape changes due to high winds and sea waves.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and swimming conditions.
• Activities: Try windsurfing or paddleboarding; explore the nearby town of Bol.
• Photography: Capture the beach from the Vidova Gora viewpoint for the best perspective.

Number 17: Swiss Alps 

The Swiss Alps, located in southern Switzerland, are home to some of the world's most dramatic and stunning sceneries. With peaks like Dufourspitze, Dom, Liskamm, Weisshorn, and the Matterhorn, the region offers sheer valleys, sparkling lakes, and endless green landscapes. It’s a paradise for adventure travelers year-round.

Highlights:

• Located in southern Switzerland, home to some of the world’s most dramatic and stunning sceneries.
• Peaks like Dufourspitze, Dom, Liskamm, Weisshorn, and the Matterhorn.
• Offers sheer valleys, sparkling lakes, and endless green landscapes.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Summer for hiking and outdoor activities; winter for skiing and snow sports.
• Activities: Take scenic train rides like the Glacier Express; hike trails like the Haute Route.
• Local cuisine: Try Swiss specialties like fondue and raclette.

Number 16: Provence, France 

Provence, also known as the Land of Lavender, is famous for its endless lavender fields that create stunning landscapes during summer. Located in southeastern France, Provence offers a variety of attractions including the Rhone River, Sault Plateau, Valensole Plateau, and the Luberon Valley. Visitors can experience the heavenly fragrance and beauty of the lavender fields during their visit.

Highlights:

• Known as the Land of Lavender, famous for its endless lavender fields during summer.
• Located in southeastern France, with attractions like the Rhone River, Sault Plateau, Valensole Plateau, and the Luberon Valley.
• Offers a variety of experiences from fragrant fields to charming villages.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late June to early August for lavender fields in full bloom.
• Activities: Visit the local markets for fresh produce and crafts; take scenic drives through the countryside.
• Photography: Sunrise or sunset for the best light over the lavender fields.

Number 15: Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye, located near the northwestern coast of Scotland, is the largest of the Inner Hebrides. This magical place is known for its dramatic coastline, serene mountains, and captivating history. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Located near the northwestern coast of Scotland, the largest of the Inner Hebrides.
• Known for its dramatic coastline, serene mountains, and captivating history.
• Perfect destination for hiking and wildlife watching.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and longer days.
• Activities: Hike the Quiraing and Old Man of Storr; visit Dunvegan Castle.
• Local experiences: Explore the local villages and enjoy fresh seafood.

Number 14: Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands, an archipelago of 18 volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, are known for their rugged landscapes and stunning scenery. Connected by bridges, tunnels, and ferries, the islands offer breathtaking views of jagged coastlines, misty waterfalls, and picturesque mountains. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.

Highlights:

• Archipelago of 18 volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean.
• Known for rugged landscapes, jagged coastlines, misty waterfalls, and picturesque mountains.
• Connected by bridges, tunnels, and ferries.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for milder weather and blooming nature.
• Activities: Explore by car or boat for the best views; hike the popular trails like Sørvágsvatn.
• Local experiences: Try local cuisine and experience the traditional Faroese culture.

Number 13: Meteora

Meteora, a spectacular rock formation in Greece, hosts one of the largest complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Built during the 13th and 14th centuries, these monasteries are perched atop the rocks, creating an awe-inspiring sight. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meteora attracts thousands of tourists with its unique setting and rich history.

Highlights:

• Spectacular rock formation in Greece hosting one of the largest complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries.
• Built during the 13th and 14th centuries, perched atop the rocks.
• Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer tourists.
• Activities: Take a guided tour to learn about the monasteries’ history; hike the trails for unique perspectives.
• Photography: Sunrise or sunset for the best light on the monasteries.

Number 12: Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway, located along the north coast of Ireland, is composed of 40,000 basalt columns resulting from ancient volcanic activity. Some columns reach up to 12 meters high, creating a mystical landscape. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, the Giant’s Causeway attracts tourists with its majestic ancient rocks and stunning views.

Highlights:

• Located along the north coast of Ireland, composed of 40,000 basalt columns from ancient volcanic activity.
• Some columns reach up to 12 meters high, creating a mystical landscape.
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for milder weather.
• Activities: Walk the Giant’s Causeway Trail for stunning views; visit the nearby Visitor Centre for historical context.
• Photography: Sunset for dramatic light on the columns.

Number 11: The Dolomites

The Dolomites, located in Northern Italy, are part of the Southern Limestone Alps. This mountain range is known for its spectacular alpine peaks, green meadows, beautiful lakes, and impressive trails. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, the Dolomites offer outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing, making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• Located in Northern Italy, part of the Southern Limestone Alps.
• Known for spectacular alpine peaks, green meadows, beautiful lakes, and impressive trails.
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Summer for hiking; winter for skiing.
• Activities: Explore the Tre Cime di Lavaredo; take the Great Dolomites Road for scenic drives.
• Local cuisine: Enjoy local dishes like polenta and speck.

Number 10: Lake Bled

Lake Bled, located in the Julian Alps in Northwestern Slovenia, is a glacial lake known for its charming blue waters and iconic green forests. Bled Island in the middle of the lake adds to its beauty, making it a popular tourist destination. The lake offers a magical setting for photography and outdoor activities.

Highlights:

• Located in the Julian Alps in Northwestern Slovenia, known for its charming blue waters and iconic green forests.
• Bled Island in the middle of the lake adds to its beauty.
• Popular destination for photography and outdoor activities.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for pleasant weather.
• Activities: Rent a boat to visit Bled Island; hike to Bled Castle for panoramic views.
• Local treats: Try the famous Bled cream cake.

Number 9: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park, the oldest and largest national park in Croatia, is renowned for its stunning lakes arranged in cascading series. The park features 16 interconnected lakes, spectacular waterfalls, caves, and abundant wildlife. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park offers lovely walkways and dramatic viewpoints, creating a paradise for nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Oldest and largest national park in Croatia.
• Features 16 interconnected lakes, spectacular waterfalls, caves, and abundant wildlife.
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall for fewer crowds and beautiful colors.
• Routes: Follow the well-marked walking trails for the best views.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting on the lakes.

Number 8: Black Forest

The Black Forest, located in southwestern Germany, is a large forested area known for its dense forests, picturesque peaks, charming villages, and lovely trails. The region is home to attractions like Lake Titisee, Schiltach, Freiburg, Baden-Baden, and Freudenstadt. The deep dark forests have many amazing historical stories and magical legends, making it a captivating destination.

Highlights:

• Located in southwestern Germany, known for its dense forests, picturesque peaks, charming villages, and lovely trails.
• Home to attractions like Lake Titisee, Schiltach, Freiburg, Baden-Baden, and Freudenstadt.
• Rich in historical stories and magical legends.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for outdoor activities; winter for festive markets and snow sports.
• Activities: Hike or bike through the forest trails; visit the spa town of Baden-Baden; explore the Black Forest Open Air Museum.
• Local cuisine: Try the Black Forest cake and local smoked ham.

Number 7: Faraglioni

Faraglioni, a majestic rock formation rising up to 100 meters out of the sea, is located on the coast of the island of Capri. Known as the symbol of Capri, it offers a unique and magical setting for visitors. The best way to see Faraglioni is by boat, providing an unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• Majestic rock formation rising up to 100 meters out of the sea, located on the coast of the island of Capri.
• Known as the symbol of Capri, offering a unique and magical setting.
• Best viewed by boat for an unforgettable experience.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for the best weather and sea conditions.
• Photography: Take a boat tour for the best angles and lighting.
• Activities: Explore the Blue Grotto; take a hike to the Gardens of Augustus for stunning views of Faraglioni.

Number 6: Hallstatt

Hallstatt, an alpine village in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, is known for its awe-inspiring natural scenery, emerald-colored lake, and charming small village. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hallstatt is considered the most beautiful lake town in the world. The region is popular for its winter activities, fascinating hiking trails, and pleasant atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Alpine village in the Salzkammergut region of Austria known for its natural scenery, emerald-colored lake, and charming small village.
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered the most beautiful lake town in the world.
• Popular for winter activities, hiking trails, and a pleasant atmosphere.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for hiking; winter for festive activities and snow sports.
• Photography: Sunrise or sunset for the best light over the lake.
• Activities: Visit the Hallstatt Skywalk for panoramic views; explore the salt mines; enjoy a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt.

Number 5: Saxon Switzerland National Park

Saxon Switzerland National Park, located in Saxony, Germany, is known for its impressive rock formations, majestic waterfalls, beautiful valleys, and charming villages. The park offers 1000 climbing peaks and is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities. The majestic Elbe Sandstone Mountains and stunning viewpoints make it one of the best hiking destinations in Europe.

Highlights:

• Located in Saxony, Germany, known for its impressive rock formations, majestic waterfalls, beautiful valleys, and charming villages.
• Offers 1000 climbing peaks and is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities.
• The Elbe Sandstone Mountains and stunning viewpoints make it one of the best hiking destinations in Europe.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for ideal hiking conditions.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
• Activities: Hike to the Bastei Bridge for incredible views; explore the Königstein Fortress; take a boat trip on the Elbe River.

Number 4: Jungfrau Region

The Jungfrau region in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland is home to some amazing attractions like the Jungfraujoch railway station, the Aletsch glacier, and the Eiger trail. The region offers incredible hiking trails, scenic train rides, and picturesque villages. The majestic mountains and stunning landscapes provide a memorable travel experience.

Highlights:

• Located in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland with attractions like Jungfraujoch railway station, Aletsch glacier, and Eiger trail.
• Offers incredible hiking trails, scenic train rides, and picturesque villages.
• Majestic mountains and stunning landscapes provide a memorable travel experience.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Summer for hiking; winter for skiing and snow activities.
• Must-see spots: Take the Jungfraujoch railway to the "Top of Europe"; explore the Lauterbrunnen Valley waterfalls.
• Activities: Hike the Eiger Trail; visit Grindelwald for adventure sports; relax in the scenic village of Wengen.

Number 3: Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, a breathtaking coastal region in the Liguria region of Italy, comprises five lovely villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the colorful houses and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea make it a popular destination. The region offers incredible hiking trails, scenic boat rides, beautiful beaches, and delicious local cuisine.

Highlights:

• Coastal region in the Liguria region of Italy, comprising five lovely villages.
• Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colorful houses and stunning Mediterranean Sea views.
• Offers incredible hiking trails, scenic boat rides, beautiful beaches, and delicious local cuisine.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
• Transportation: Use the local trains to travel between the villages.
• Activities: Hike the Sentiero Azzurro trail; take a boat tour for a unique perspective; try the local seafood dishes.

Number 2: Santorini

Santorini, a volcanic island in the Aegean Sea, is part of the Cyclades group of islands in Greece. Known for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets, Santorini offers dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. The island provides a variety of activities such as hiking, boat tours, wine tasting, and exploring ancient ruins, making it a captivating destination.

Highlights:

• Volcanic island in the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades group of islands in Greece.
• Known for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets.
• Offers dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Late spring or early fall to avoid the peak summer crowds.
• Sunset spots: Oia village is famous for its spectacular sunset views.
• Activities: Hike from Fira to Oia for stunning views; visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri; enjoy local wine tasting.

Number 1: Matterhorn

The Matterhorn, located in the Pennine Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy, is one of the most iconic and picturesque mountains in the world. Known for its distinctive pyramid shape, the Matterhorn stands at 4,478 meters and attracts climbers, hikers, and photographers. The surrounding area offers incredible hiking trails, scenic train rides, and charming Swiss villages, making it the top scenic place to visit in Europe.

Highlights:

• Iconic pyramid-shaped mountain located on the border between Switzerland and Italy.
• Stands at 4,478 meters, making it a popular destination for climbers, hikers, and photographers.
• Surrounded by incredible hiking trails, scenic train rides, and charming Swiss villages.

Tips:

• Best time to visit: Summer and early fall for hiking; winter for skiing.
• Photography: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light on the mountain.
• Activities: Take the Gornergrat Railway for breathtaking views; explore Zermatt village for local culture and cuisine. 

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip through Europe offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the continent's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the rugged coastlines of the Isle of Skye to the dramatic peaks of the Swiss Alps, each destination on this list provides a unique and unforgettable adventure. Whether you're drawn to the serene beauty of Lake Bled or the historic charm of Hallstatt, these scenic spots promise to leave you with lasting memories. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to discover the breathtaking beauty that Europe has to offer. Subscribe our Youtube Channel. Happy travels!