Each year, around 1.3 billion people travel internationally. The United Nations estimate that 51% of those tourists choose Europe as their destination.
Once you start learning about what all the different countries in Europe have to offer, it’s no wonder why a tourist would choose to visit. Whether you enjoy learning about history, visiting famous tourist attractions, or just lounging on the beach, Europe offers something for everyone.
If you are looking for some European vacation ideas, you are in luck! Keep reading to discover some of the best places to visit.
1. London
London is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and for good reason.
For starters, you’re bound to cross a lot of tourist attractions off your bucket list. Spend a day visiting Big Ben, The London Eye, Platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross, and Buckingham Palace.
There are so many things to do, you’ll want to reserve a few days to just wander around areas like Leicester Square, Oxford Street, Shoreditch to take in all the sights.
2. Rome
If you want to encounter the best of Europe, plan your trip to include a stop in Rome.
Rome has many historical landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and Trevi fountain just to name a few. We suggest you book a tour of the main attractions so you can see the highlights and learn about the history behind each attraction at the same time.
There are also many religious landmarks that everyone can appreciate because of their unique beauty and amazing architecture. Add the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel to your schedule.
3. Croatia
If a beach day is on your things to do in Europe list, then you’ll want to make sure to visit Croatia. Home to some of the best beaches in the country, there are plenty of bustling tourist beaches and calm isolated beaches.
Pasjaca beach is located at the foot of a cliff. The ocean transformed the rocky shore into a smooth sand beach over the years. This beach is known for attracting fans of nature and calm waters.
If you’re looking for a more nontraditional beach, head to Nugal Beach. It’s isolated and requires a 30-minute walk on a rock covered path to reach the shoreline. This beach is frequented by nude sunbathers, so grab your sunscreen and get ready to join the tradition.
4. Paris
Home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe, Paris should be near the top of your list of places to visit.
First and foremost, every tourist needs to experience the Eiffel Tower. If you really want the true experience, visit during both the daytime and the nighttime. During the day, you can get a birds-eye view of the city, but at night, you can’t beat the view of the lit-up skyline.
Other destinations to visit while in Paris is the Louvre museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Musée Rodin to so the famous The Thinker sculpture.
5. Prague
When you plan a trip to Europe, make sure you include Prague as one of your destinations. Prague was once one of the lesser-known tourist spots but recently has grown in popularity.
Spend a day taking in the architecture at The Old Town Square, Jewish Quarter, and Wenceslas Square. If historic castles are more your style, plan a visit to the Prague Castle, Karlštejn Castle, or the Wallenstein Palace.
6. Athens
Another one of the best places to visit in Europe in the summer is Athens. History lovers will find themselves surrounded by a plethora of 5th-century BC landmarks.
You could spend a whole day exploring the Acropolis. Located here you’ll find the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and The Propylea. Grab a tour guide while you’re there to learn more about these landmarks and the ancient Greek democracy.
There are plenty of other museums to visit outside of the Acropolis. These include the Benaki Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Agora, and the Museum of Cycladic Art.
7. Venice
Venice is also a great place to visit that has a unique feel than any of the other destinations on this list.
The whole city is actually built on more than 100 small islands. That’s where the famous canals come in. Spend a day onboard one of the gondolas, vaporettos, or ferries and get a true feel for the area.
While you’re there, you’ll also want to visit some of the on-land attractions. The high-points include St. Mark’s Square, Doges Palace, and St. Mark’s Basilica.
8. Dublin
No trip to Europe would be complete with a stop in Dublin. The capital of Ireland is a great place to get a taste of what the whole country has to offer.
First, and foremost, every trip should include a stop at the Guinness Storehouse to get a pint of this traditional drink. You could also go the less-touristy route and grab a pint in a local tavern, like The Temple Bar. Or, if you prefer harder liquor, visit the Old Jameson Distillery.
Once you’ve got the important stuff out of the way, you can visit the more historical locations. Top choices include St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Dublin Castle, or the Trinity College Library.
Fill Your Itinerary With European Vacation Ideas
Now that you know the top places to visit, it’s time to fill your trip itinerary with some of these European vacation ideas.
Getting to Europe is the most expensive and difficult part of your international travels. So once you’re there, it makes sense to visit multiple countries while you have the opportunity. Pick a few favorites from this list and start mapping out your vacation.
If this is your first international trip, don’t panic. Head to the Travel Tips of this website to learn everything you need to know before your vacation.
