10 most beautiful places in Europe

With 44 countries, over 400 World Heritage Sites, and countless cities and villages, Europe has much to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the most beautiful places in Europe include a church in the middle of a Slovenian lake, waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and rolling hills dotted with vineyards in the French countryside. Explore the most scenic places in Europe with this guide.

1. Edinburgh, Scotland

Strolling along the centuries-old cobblestoned streets of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town, it’s easy to see why this Scottish city is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. As you walk up the slight incline, you’ll pass the Gothic St. Giles Cathedral with its crown-shaped spire, cute gift shops, and cozy pubs before arriving at the stunning Edinburgh Castle. Pop in to explore the world-famous landmark and admire the breathtaking scenery of the city below.

Highlights

• Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, offers one of the most beautiful views in Edinburgh.
• Colorful spring flowers in the Princess Street Gardens are a must-see for flora lovers.

2. Lake Bled, Slovenia

The combination of crystal-clear turquoise waters and a striking landmark make Lake Bled in Slovenia one of the most scenic places in Europe. The most noticeable attraction, the Church of the Assumption of Mary, is nestled on an island in the middle of the lake. The Baroque-style building looks like something straight out of a fairytale. According to tradition, if you make a wish and ring the bell inside, it’ll come true.

Highlights

• Bled Castle, with its red rooftops, presents a striking contrast to the surrounding green hills and nearby blue waters.
• The path around the lake lets visitors see Lake Bled’s beauty from every angle.

3. Kravica Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Kravica Waterfalls are unique, with hardly any manmade features. From the top of the cliffs, roughly 20 waterfalls cascade into the lake below. Admire the greenery and gorgeous waterfalls while dipping into the water or relaxing on the pristine sandy beaches.

Highlights

• In late spring and summer, heat causes lake water to rise, creating an atmospheric scene straight out of a fantasy novel.

4. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher offer dramatic coastal scenery along Ireland’s west coast. The rugged cliffs stretch over eight miles (13km) and offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Hike the entire Cliffs of Moher Trail or head to the main viewing area to see the south cliffs and Hag’s Head, the southernmost section resembling a woman’s head looking out to sea.

Highlights

• The towering, rugged cliffs rise 700 feet (215m), offering sweeping panoramas of the ocean and great sunset views.

5. Capri, Italy

The Italian island of Capri is nothing short of spectacular. Widely considered one of the most beautiful places in Europe and one of the most colorful in the world, Capri offers picturesque villages with whitewashed buildings and flora-filled terraces. Dramatic cliffs offer panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Seam making the island a must-visit destination for anyone seeking elegance and scenic coastal views.

Highlights

• The most famous attraction, the Blue Grotto, is illuminated by sunlight that creates a breathtaking blue glow.
• The Faraglioni Rock Formations, a set of three limestone rocks in the Mediterranean Sea, is a stunning Capri landmark.

6. Kirkjufell, Iceland

It’s not a surprise that Kirkjufell (also known as Church Mountain) is one of the most photographed places in Iceland. Its unique shape resembles a witch’s hat. The impressive landmark also includes Kirkjufellsfoss, a waterfall set against the backdrop of the mountain. When the sun sets, Kirkjufell is every bit as naturally beautiful as it is during the day. The mountain is one of the best stargazing spots in the world and a prime spot to observe the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

Highlights

• The colors of Kirkjufell change with the seasons. Spring brings fields of wildflowers to the mountain, summer and fall see greenery, while winter brings snow.

7. Lapland, Finland

There are more reindeer than humans in the far-northern Finnish region of Lapland. From November to late May, Lapland is the ultimate winter wonderland, complete with snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and the midnight sun. Lapland’s clear rivers and blooming wildflowers are equally gorgeous in summer, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe all year round.

Highlights

• The snow-covered landscape of Levi in the region of Lapland is one of the most beautiful ski towns in Europe.

8. Meteora, Greece

The unique sight of Byzantine monasteries perched atop steep rock formations in Meteora is breathtaking. The ancient UNESCO-listed buildings seem to cling to the jagged cliffs and offer panoramic views of the valley below. Their domed architecture with beautiful arched windows blends perfectly into the rugged natural landscape.

Highlights

• The Meteora viewpoint offers spectacular views of the sun setting over the Thessalian Plain.
• The rock formations are a natural wonder rising from the valley to jagged peaks in the sky.

9. Champagne, France

The birthplace of bubbly is also one of the prettiest places in Europe. In Champagne, you can sip the eponymous beverage amongst hills decorated with beautiful vineyards. The Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, where the world’s top producers are headquartered, is one of the most prestigious streets in the world. The cellars below the street’s elegant houses are said to be filled with millions of bottles of champagne.

Highlights

• The historic towns in Champagne (like Troyes, Epernay, and Reims) are beautiful destinations with medieval architecture and narrow cobbled streets.

10. Norwegian Fjords

The long and narrow inlets, dramatic landscapes featuring steep cliffs, and water that mirrors its surroundings make Norway’s fjords some of the most beautiful places in Europe. Carved by thousand-year-old glaciers, the fjords’ winding waterways are home to a wide variety of wildlife, such as seals and sea eagles.

Highlights

• Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its steep peaks, powerful waterfalls, and deep blue water.
• The Nærøyfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord, is the longest fjord in Norway. It has emerald water, nearby snow-capped peaks, and beautiful waterfalls.

FAQs: Most beautiful places in Europe.

Generated with the help of AI

What makes Edinburgh a unique destination for history enthusiasts?

Edinburgh is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, with its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The city’s iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, offers panoramic views and insights into Scotland’s royal history. The Royal Mile, a historic street, connects the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, providing a journey through time with its cobbled streets and historic landmarks.

What activities can visitors enjoy at Lake Bled?

Lake Bled offers a variety of activities for visitors. You can take a traditional ‘pletna’ boat to Bled Island and ring the wishing bell at the Church of the Assumption. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails around the lake or climb to Bled Castle for stunning views. Swimming, rowing, and paddleboarding are popular in summer, while winter brings opportunities for ice skating and enjoying the snowy landscape.

Why are the Cliffs of Moher considered a must-see natural wonder?

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural attractions, stretching for about 14 kilometers along the Atlantic coast. Rising up to 214 meters, they offer breathtaking views of the ocean and the Aran Islands. The cliffs are home to a variety of seabirds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The visitor center provides interactive exhibits about the geology, history, and wildlife of the area.

What are some unique features of Capri that attract tourists?

Capri is famed for its stunning natural beauty, including the Blue Grotto, a sea cave illuminated by vibrant blue light. The island’s rugged coastline offers dramatic views and opportunities for boat tours. Visitors can explore the charming town of Anacapri, ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro for panoramic views, or stroll through the lush Gardens of Augustus. Capri’s chic boutiques and cafes add to its allure.

What makes Kirkjufell a popular destination for photographers?

Kirkjufell, often dubbed the most photographed mountain in Iceland, captivates photographers with its symmetrical shape and picturesque setting. Located near the town of Grundarfjörður, the mountain is complemented by nearby waterfalls, creating a stunning composition. The area offers dramatic lighting conditions, especially during the midnight sun and aurora borealis, making it a perfect spot for capturing breathtaking images.