12 Best European Countries to Visit for Your Next Vacation

• Walk through history in Rome: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Museums are essential stops that bring ancient and religious history to life.
• Admire Renaissance art in Florence: From Michelangelo’s David to the Uffizi Gallery, Florence is one of the best cities in Europe for art lovers.
• Cruise Venice’s canals: A gondola ride may sound like a cliché, but it’s one of the most memorable ways to experience the city’s architecture and charm.
• Taste wine in Tuscany: Vineyard tours and tastings in Chianti or Montepulciano are a highlight for anyone who loves food and drink.
• Relax on the Amalfi Coast: Dramatic cliffs, colorful towns, and the Mediterranean climate make this coastline a traveler’s dream.

• Budget: Hotel Nerva in Rome offers modern comfort in the heart of the historic center, steps from the Colosseum. Rooms average $221 to $806 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Santa Maria in Trastevere (Rome) is a peaceful option with a courtyard garden and easy access to local trattorias. Rates range from approximately $230 to $651 per night.
• Luxury: Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello sits high above the Amalfi Coast with an infinity pool and panoramic views. Rooms start at $2,410 to $5,125 per night.

Trains are the easiest way to move between major cities, but renting a car is the best choice for exploring smaller towns and wine regions. Summers can bring heavy crowds to the most visited cities, so consider traveling in spring or fall for fewer crowds and more comfortable weather. Many museums and historic sites are closed on Mondays, so plan your schedule accordingly.

• See Paris from above: Climb the Eiffel Tower or head to Montmartre for sweeping views of the city’s rooftops.
• Visit world-class museums: The Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou each offer different perspectives on art and history.
• Wander the lavender fields of Provence: Best seen in July, these fields create one of the most colorful landscapes in Europe.
• Enjoy the Mediterranean coast: The French Riviera is home to glamorous beaches, historic ports, and the charm of smaller towns like Menton.
• Taste wine in Bordeaux or Champagne: Vineyards across France are open for tours, offering the chance to sample wines at their source.

• Budget: Hotel Henriette in Paris is a boutique hotel near the Latin Quarter with individually designed rooms, priced around $203 to $422 per night.
• Mid-range: La Mirande in Avignon is a historic townhouse turned hotel, perfect for exploring Provence. Rates average $453 to $1,232 per night.
• Luxury: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes is a legendary Riviera property with a private bay and elegant suites. Prices may vary depending on their partners, but roughly start at about $1,200 per night.

France is well-connected by high-speed trains, making it easy to travel between regions without flying. The best time to visit depends on your plans: spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds, while summer brings festivals but also higher prices. In rural areas, restaurants may close between lunch and dinner hours, so check ahead to avoid surprises.

• See Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona: The Sagrada Família and Park Güell are some of the most beautiful works of modern design in Europe.
• Walk through history in Andalusia: Visit the Alhambra in Granada and the Mezquita in Córdoba for a glimpse into Spain’s Islamic past.
• Relax in the Canary Islands: These islands are known for crystal-clear waters, black sand beaches, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
• Experience Madrid’s art triangle: The Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums hold masterpieces spanning centuries.
• Celebrate with the locals: From La Tomatina to Semana Santa, Spain’s festivals are some of the most exciting in Europe.

• Budget: Casa Gracia in Barcelona is a stylish hostel with private rooms near Passeig de Gràcia. Prices average $110 to $327 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Amadeus & La Musica in Seville combines a central location with a rooftop terrace offering views of the cathedral. Rates range from $169 to $502 per night.
• Luxury: Marbella Club Hotel on the Costa del Sol offers beachfront villas and lush gardens, with rates starting around $555 to $2,001 per night.

Meal times in Spain tend to run later than in many other European countries—lunch often begins around 2 pm, and dinner can be as late as 9 or 10 pm. Public transportation is reliable in major cities, but renting a car is the best way to explore rural regions and smaller towns. Summers on the Mediterranean coast can be crowded, so consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and milder weather.

• Step back in time in Athens: The Acropolis and its temples are among the most important ancient ruins in the world.
• Sail through the Greek islands: Island hopping gives you a mix of lively nightlife, quiet beaches, and crystal clear waters.
• Watch the sunset in Santorini: The villages of Oia and Imerovigli are known for sunsets that transform the island’s whitewashed houses.
• Discover Crete’s rugged beauty: Hike the Samaria Gorge or explore smaller towns that feel far from the tourist crowds.
• Visit Delphi: Once considered the center of the world in ancient Greece, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is set against dramatic mountain landscapes.

• Budget: City Circus Athens is a boutique hostel with private rooms, set in a restored neoclassical building near the old town. Rooms average $56 to $208 per night.
• Mid-range: Strogili Hotel in Oia, Santorini, offers cliffside views with suites featuring private balconies. Rates typically range from $109 to $278 per night.
• Luxury: Phaea Blue offers private villas with infinity pools overlooking the Mediterranean coast, starting at $446 per night.

Public ferries connect most of the islands, but schedules can vary depending on the season. The summer months bring hot weather and heavy crowds, especially on the most famous islands, while May, June, and September are ideal times to visit with warm weather and fewer crowds. When visiting religious sites, modest dress is expected; covering your shoulders and knees shows respect for local customs.

• Walk along the Berlin Wall: Visit the East Side Gallery to see murals painted on one of the largest remaining sections.
• Tour Neuschwanstein Castle: This 19th-century castle in Bavaria looks like it was lifted straight from a storybook.
• Sip wine in the Rhine Valley: Vineyards line the riverbanks, and river cruises offer scenic views of castles and villages.
• Spend a night in Munich during Oktoberfest: Germany’s most famous festival is a celebration of beer, music, and Bavarian traditions.
• Explore the Black Forest: Dense woodlands, small villages, and scenic hiking trails make this region perfect for outdoor lovers.

• Budget: Circus Hostel in Berlin is stylish, well-located, and offers both dorms and private rooms. Prices range from $41 to $297 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Torbräu in Munich is a family-run property in the old town, close to Marienplatz. Rates typically range from $256 to $847 per night.
• Luxury: Schloss Elmau in Bavaria is a luxury spa retreat in the Alps, with fine dining and access to ski resorts. Rooms start at $866 to $1,868 per night.

Germany’s cities and regions are well connected by Deutsche Bahn’s high-speed trains, but booking in advance helps with cost savings. Winters are cold and often best for Christmas markets and skiing in the Alps, while summer months are ideal for festivals and outdoor activities. Many shops close on Sundays, especially in smaller towns, so plan accordingly.

• Ski in the Swiss Alps: Resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz are world famous for their slopes and après-ski experiences.
• Ride the Glacier Express: This scenic train links Zermatt and St. Moritz, crossing mountains, valleys, and viaducts along the way.
• Visit Jungfraujoch: Known as the “Top of Europe,” this high-altitude station offers views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
• Stroll through Lucerne’s old town: Wooden bridges, medieval walls, and lake views make it one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.
• Sail on Lake Geneva: A relaxing way to see vineyards, castles, and the Alps rising behind the water.

• Budget: Hotel Marta in Zurich offers modern rooms near the Old Town and main train station, with rates ranging from $198 to $365 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel des Balances in Lucerne combines lake views with a historic building in the heart of the old town. Prices typically range from $317 to $711 per night.
• Luxury: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St. Moritz is a landmark property with lake views, fine dining, and easy ski access. Rooms start at about $1,040 to $2,585 per night.

Public transport is efficient, with trains, boats, and cable cars making even remote areas accessible. The Swiss franc is the local currency, though euros are sometimes accepted in tourist spots. Switzerland is one of the more expensive countries in Europe, so budgeting for food and accommodation is crucial. The best time to visit depends on your plans—ski resorts shine in the winter months, while summer is ideal for hiking and enjoying alpine lakes.

• Walk Vienna’s historic center: St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the Ringstrasse show the grandeur of Western civilization.
• Listen to a concert in Salzburg: The city is known for its music festivals and its role as Mozart’s birthplace.
• Take the train to Hallstatt: This lakeside village is one of Europe’s most beautiful smaller towns.
• Ski in the Austrian Alps: Resorts like Kitzbühel and Innsbruck are favorites for both skiing and après-ski culture.
• Visit Schönbrunn Palace: Once the summer residence of the Habsburgs, this palace offers stunning gardens and lavish interiors that bring the Middle Ages and beyond to life.

• Budget: Meininger Hotel Vienna Downtown Franz offers simple yet comfortable rooms in central Vienna, priced between $46 and $154 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Elefant in Salzburg sits in a historic building just off the old town’s main street. Rates usually range from $175 to $399 per night.
• Luxury: Hotel Sacher Vienna is a landmark property known for its elegant rooms and the famous Sachertorte chocolate cake. Rooms start at about $804 to $1,721 per night.

Austria’s rail system is excellent, making it easy to combine city visits with trips to the Alps. Winters are best for skiing, while spring and fall are ideal for city travel with fewer crowds. Many restaurants and shops close on Sundays, especially outside the larger cities, so it’s good to plan ahead. A cultural tip: café culture in Austria is about slowing down, so don’t feel rushed to leave after ordering a coffee.

• Ride the tram in Lisbon: The iconic yellow trams wind through narrow streets and give a great introduction to the city.
• Taste wine in Porto: Visit the cellars across the Douro River to sample Portugal’s most famous export.
• Relax on Algarve beaches: Known for golden cliffs and crystal clear waters, this is one of Europe’s best spots for beach life.
• Surf the west coast: Towns like Ericeira and Nazaré are known for great waves, from beginner spots to record-breaking swells.
• Explore Sintra’s palaces: Just outside Lisbon, the colorful Pena Palace and surrounding forests feel like stepping into another world.

• Budget: Lisbon Destination Hostel, located inside Rossio train station, combines quirky design with central convenience. Rates average $56 to $404 per night.
• Mid-range: Torel Palace Porto offers boutique-style rooms in restored historic buildings. Prices usually run $246 to $853 per night.
• Luxury: Vila Vita Parc in the Algarve sits on a clifftop with private beach access, fine dining, and lush gardens. Rooms start at about $331 to $1,204 per night.

Public transport makes it easy to explore cities, but renting a car is the best way to see the Algarve and smaller towns. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is warm but the crowds are lighter. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, though learning a few Portuguese phrases is always appreciated. Portugal is also one of the more affordable countries in Western Europe, making it a strong choice for budget-conscious travelers.

• See London’s landmarks: Big Ben, the British Museum, and the London Eye are essential for first-time visitors.
• Hike in the Scottish Highlands: Wide-open views, lochs, and rugged beauty make this one of Europe’s most memorable landscapes.
• Tour medieval castles: From Windsor Castle to Edinburgh Castle, the UK is full of fortresses with fascinating history.
• Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with striking basalt rock formations.
• Enjoy Wales’ national parks: Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons offer hikes, waterfalls, and fewer crowds compared to more tourist-heavy regions.

• Budget: Z Hotel Shoreditch in London offers compact, modern rooms near restaurants and nightlife. Prices average $108 to $364 per night.
• Mid-range: Apex Grassmarket Hotel in Edinburgh has castle views and easy access to the old town. Rates usually range from $217 to $498 per night.
• Luxury: The Goring in London is a five-star family-run hotel near Buckingham Palace, with rooms starting around $747 to $1,575 per night.

Trains connect major cities, but renting a car is often the best way to explore rural areas, such as the Scottish Highlands or Wales. The weather can be unpredictable at any time of year, so packing layers and a raincoat is always a wise precaution. The UK uses the pound sterling, not the euro, and tipping is generally 10–12% in restaurants. For fewer crowds, shoulder seasons in spring and autumn are often the best time to visit.

• Soak in the Blue Lagoon: This geothermal spa near Reykjavik is famous for its milky blue waters rich in minerals.
• Drive the Golden Circle: A route that includes geysers, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park, all within a day’s trip from the capital.
• Chase waterfalls on the South Coast: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss are two of the country’s most beautiful natural sights.
• Explore glaciers and volcanoes: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the surrounding Vatnajökull National Park are unforgettable highlights.
• See the Northern Lights: Visit during the winter months for the best chance of spotting the Aurora Borealis.

• Budget: Kex Hostel in Reykjavik offers dorms and private rooms in a quirky industrial setting, priced from $60 to $189 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Vík í Mýrdal, located on the south coast, offers modern rooms with views of black sand beaches and nearby mountains. Rates typically range from $212 to $507 per night.
• Luxury: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is a luxury resort built into a lava field with private lagoon access. Rooms start from $400 to $1,200 per night.

Traveling in Iceland can be expensive, so be sure to budget carefully for food, fuel, and accommodations. Renting a car is the best way to see the country, especially if you want to explore beyond Reykjavik. Weather changes quickly, so packing layers and waterproof gear is essential. The best time to visit depends on your preferences: the summer months offer long days and easier travel, while winter brings the Northern Lights and fewer crowds.

• Walk Dubrovnik’s old town walls: These fortifications offer sweeping views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
• Explore Diocletian’s Palace in Split: A UNESCO World Heritage Site where Roman ruins blend with modern life.
• Island hop in the Adriatic: Hvar and Korčula are popular, but lesser-known islands like Vis offer fewer crowds and relaxed charm.
• Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park: Wooden walkways connect turquoise lakes and waterfalls in one of Croatia’s most stunning landscapes.
• Sail along the Dalmatian coast: Chartering a boat is one of the best ways to experience the crystal clear waters.

• Budget: Hostel Angelina Old Town in Dubrovnik is situated in a historic stone house. Dorm beds and private rooms range from $80 to $228 per night.
• Mid-range: Cornaro Hotel in Split offers comfortable rooms near Diocletian’s Palace, with a rooftop terrace. Prices average $185 to $920 per night.
• Luxury: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik overlooks the Adriatic with private beach access and elegant suites. Rates start around $251 to $1,557 per night.

The summer months bring cruise ships and heavy crowds to Dubrovnik and Split, making visits during spring or fall often more enjoyable. Ferries connect the islands, but schedules can be limited outside of peak season. The euro is now the official currency, replacing the kuna in 2023. Croatia is also more affordable than many Western European destinations, though prices rise sharply in major tourist hubs during July and August.

• Stroll through Prague’s old town: The Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge are highlights that capture the city’s historic character.
• Tour Prague Castle: One of the largest castle complexes in the world, it overlooks the city, showcasing centuries of history.
• Relax in Karlovy Vary: This spa town has been welcoming visitors since the Middle Ages, with hot springs and grand architecture.
• Sample Czech beer: The country is known for its brewing traditions, and locals often say they “love beer” as part of their culture.
• Visit Český Krumlov: A fairy-tale small town with a castle, winding streets, and views over the Vltava River.

• Budget: Sophie’s Hostel in Prague offers stylish dorms and private rooms near Wenceslas Square. Rates average $67 to $179 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotel Bellevue in Český Krumlov is set in a historic building close to the castle. Prices range from $104 to $466 per night.
• Luxury: Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Prague, is housed in a former monastery near Charles Bridge. Rooms start around $403 to $873 per night.

Public transport is excellent in Prague, with trams and metro lines connecting most of the city. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but less so in smaller towns, so a few phrases in Czech can be helpful. The local currency is the Czech koruna, not the euro. Winters are cold and atmospheric, especially around Christmas markets, while spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds.