Are you planning a trip to Europe and don’t know where to start? It is really difficult to choose the most beautiful countries in Europe to travel to. And more when there are only 15! The old continent never disappoints : its incredible historical sites, beautiful natural landscapes and a rich culture that people from all over the planet fall in love with. In this post we tell you which are the 15 most beautiful countries in Europe to inspire you . Obviously, for tastes the colors, but these are our favorites.
35 best places to see in Europe
THE 15 MOST BEAUTIFUL COUNTRIES IN EUROPE
1. Spain, the most beautiful country in Europe
We are Spanish, but it has nothing to do with our decision. For us, without a doubt, Spain must be in the first position in this list of the most beautiful countries in Europe! And patriotism has nothing to do with it… in fact, we had to travel a lot to realize what we had at home. Spain is a very complete country. It has everything!
Beginning with first class monumental cities such as Barcelona , ​​Madrid or Seville . They are among the most beautiful in Europe too !
And if we talk about only monuments, our country has some that you must see at least once in your life . We are talking about the beautiful Sagrada Familia or the Alhambra in Granada , one of the most spectacular places to see in the world. Spain has nothing more and nothing less than 44 World Heritage Sites.
But not everything beautiful in Spain is created by man! The country has incredible landscapes, wherever you go . If you go to the north, you will be impressed with its greenery, its national parks and its rugged coastline.
And if you fancy the beach, we invite you to paradise. In the Balearic Islands you will find some of the best beaches in the world , especially in Menorca . If you want to get carried away by the party, lose yourself in Ibiza ! And finally, the Canary Islands will fascinate you with their good weather all year round and with their volcanic landscapes.
But if none of this convinces you enough and you don’t think that Spain should be in first position on this list of the most beautiful countries in Europe . We have the solution! Try their food and think again . As in Spain, it is not eaten anywhere else in the world.
The Alhambra in Granada, one of the main attractions of Spain
2. Italy
Continuing with the Mediterranean charm, Italy is one of the best countries in Europe to travel to . Like Spain, it is also a very complete destination where you can enjoy everything.
If you like nature and adventure sports, in the north of the country you can visit the Dolomites . It is one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. The shape of its mountains, its beautiful valleys, alpine lakes like Lago di Braies will make you fall in love! Lose yourself in the Trentino-Alto Adige region and you will not want to return.
Rome deserves a separate chapter . It is a huge open-air museum that shows you the ruins of the largest and most powerful empire in the world. But Italy also has beautiful cities like Milan, Bologna, Venice or Florence.
And speaking of Florence, we cannot forget to mention a place as romantic and idyllic as the Tuscany countryside . There are so many wonderful sites to see! Or mention the also romantic Amalfi coast and its picturesque villages.
Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe , without a doubt. And it also has super nice beaches ! If you want to discover the best in the country, visit the island of Sardinia or let yourself be carried away by the chaos and good gastronomy of Sicily , as long as the dreaded Etna allows it.
Florence, one of the treasures of Italy
3. France, one of the best countries in Europe to travel
France is another of the great world destinations. And being completely honest, along with Spain and Italy, any of the three could be in first position. Basically because they have everything, they are safe and easy to get to know.
Starting with the most visited city in the world, Paris! There are few cities that can be compared to the French capital. However, France has other very interesting cities such as Bordeaux , Lyon, Toulouse or Strasbourg . If you like picturesque areas, don’t forget to visit the beautiful region of Alsace.
Leaving the cities, you will surely want to relax in one of the incredible resorts that can be found along the sunny and glamorous Côte d’Azur. Or maybe you are more of a skier? No problem, in the French Alps you will find some of the most important ski resorts on the continent.
But if you are looking for a unique experience, get lost in the beautiful hills of Provence and enjoy its beautiful villages or its lavender fields. Oh, and with a glass of wine everything tastes better!
But the cherry on the cake is found in its castles. Because if there is something France has, it is history, culture and art. Don’t miss the Loire Valley and its castles !
Colmar and Alsace, the best of France
4. Greece, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe
The Mediterranean is a unique place. Just like Greece! Whether it is for its impressive ancient sites that span four millennia like the Parthenon, the Meteora monasteries or its incredible islands like Mykonos or Santorini, Greece will not leave you indifferent.
Athens is its main tourist destination . A visit to the Greek capital cannot be missing from your itinerary through the Hellenic country. But don’t just stay there! Dive into the Aegean Sea and discover as many islands as you can. The Cyclades are the most famous. You will take incredible postcards of its whitewashed villages and the calm Aegean breeze. But in the Dodecanese there are also super interesting islands like Rhodes or Symi. Or we could not forget to mention the majestic island of Crete , the largest in Greece and the one with the best beaches in the country.
And if you want a unique experience, dare to climb Mount Olympus , the highest and most sacred mountain in Greece. If all these landscapes have not taken you to heaven, on Mount Olympus you are going to meet the gods.
Santorini, the most beautiful island in Greece
5. Norway
There are few countries in the world as privileged as Norway! Home to incredible fjords , the country stands out for its beautiful landscapes. Norway’s natural beauty is epic!
Do not miss its most famous hiking routes such as Trolltunga or Preikestolen . It is difficult to climb, but the views of the fjords from the rocks are sublime.
Obviously, you can’t leave Norway without enjoying the Northern Lights . It is one of the most incredible phenomena and one that you must see at least once in your life. For this we recommend you go to the Lofoten Islands, in the Arctic Circle . It is best to go in winter to take advantage of more hours of darkness. You’re going to be cold, but the feeling of seeing them makes up for everything.
Cities are not Norway’s forte, although Bergen and Stavanger are beautiful and authentic.
Finally, if you like adventure, you must visit the Svalbard archipelago . 60% of its territory is covered by glaciers and snow. You will be careful with the polar bears!
Trolltunga, one of the most beautiful landscapes in Norway
6. Switzerland
Continuing with the natural beauty, it must be said that Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe . And if you can afford it, it’s also great to live. Like Norway, the best of Switzerland is in its landscapes.
It is home to some of the tallest and most iconic mountains on the planet such as the Matterhorn . Surely its shape sounds like Toblerone to you! It also has beautiful alpine lakes . If you visit Zermatt , you must travel the Route of the 5 Lakes.
In Switzerland you can also get on the highest railway in Europe . It will take you to Jungfraujoch , 3454 meters from Europa. From there you will have incredible views of the Swiss Alps.
But not everything in Switzerland is mountains. You can also visit beautiful valleys like Lauterbrunnen and dream in the world of Heidi or get to know interesting cities like Geneva , Lucerne , Zurich or Bern , its beautiful capital.
The photo with the Toblerone and the Matterhorn, in Switzerland
7. Iceland
Iceland is a different country. It’s the adventure capital of the world! You will be fascinated with its geysers, lava fields or its huge glaciers. In Iceland you will see landscapes that do not seem to belong to this planet. That is why it has earned the nickname of the Land of Fire and Ice!
Traveling the Ring Road in about 10 days is one of the best trips you can do in Europe . You will see a great variety of landscapes. From the famous waterfalls of the Golden Circle to the ice lagoons of Jökulsárlón , passing through its volcanoes and thermal baths.
In Iceland, the weather is unpredictable. And if something is guaranteed when you step on its territory, it is adrenaline.
Gullfoss, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland
8. England
England could not be missing from this list of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Although you will surely have to visit it with an umbrella in hand, you should not mind with the many wonderful places you can visit.
Obviously, we must start by mentioning London . For us, the English capital is the best city on the planet . It has everything! But always keep an eye on Big Ben’s time because you can’t get too enchanted in the city, otherwise you’re going to miss out on beautiful sites like the Lake District National Park. You will hallucinate with its landscapes! If you like nature, you can’t miss it.
England also has a proud tradition of monarchy . So you can’t miss their castles! Those at Windsor and Warwick are two of the most impressive.
But we believe that the best of England are its small towns. You must visit the Cotswolds , one of the hottest destinations on the continent to enjoy its bucolic atmosphere.
And finally, England also has other interesting cities such as Manchester or Liverpool , the birthplace of the Beatles.
9. Scotland
When it comes to spectacular scenery and authentic culture, there is no doubt that Scotland is one of the best countries in Europe to visit . This country is home to one of the largest wilderness areas on the entire continent.
The most interesting are the Highlands ! There you will find the most spectacular landscapes in the country, especially on the Isle of Skye .
But Scotland is much more than its Highlands. Despite the fact that landscapes are its forte, it also has really beautiful cities like Edinburgh . Walking through its streets is like stepping into a Harry Potter movie ! If you are a fan of the saga, you cannot miss the Glenfinnan Viaduct to see the famous train.
Scotland’s castles are also part of its rich cultural heritage. The one in Eilean Donan is one of the most impressive, although the one in Edinburgh is majestic.
Of course, as long as the Loch Ness monster does not eat you before visiting all these places!
The Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland
10. Croatia, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe
Going back to the Mediterranean , Croatia is one of the continent’s booming destinations. Its attractions range from ancient walled cities to crystalline beaches, passing through beautiful national parks such as Plitvice Lakes.
Dubrovnik is the main attraction of the country . And not just for Game of Thrones fans! This walled city, located on the Dalmatian coast, will win you over with its winding streets steeped in history and architectural splendor. Split is the other major Croatian city and is packed with cultural treasures from the Roman period, such as Diocletian’s Palace .
You cannot miss the opportunity to visit the Adriatic islands such as Hvar, Vis, Brac or Korcula , among others. Some of them receive celebrities from all corners of the planet, captivated by their crystalline beaches and incredible landscapes.
The Istrian peninsula is another of Croatia’s great attractions. Especially if you like truffles! Don’t miss destinations like Rovinj or Pula , two Dalmatian treasures. Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.
Croatia, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe
11. Russia
The largest country in the world could not be missing from this list . Apart from its political conflicts, there is no doubt that Russia is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe . In its enormous surface you will be able to find authentic treasures, some more well-known and promoted, others almost unknown.
European Russia has incredible cities, landscapes, beaches or ethnic towns, among others. However, due to the lack of tourist advertising, Russia’s natural beauty is overlooked, even by the Russians themselves.
Moscow and Saint Petersburg are the two main destinations in the country . They are two amazing cities! The first, with a much more Russian character: large squares, avenues… in true Soviet style. Red Square is one of the most beautiful in the world ! And St. Petersburg is a much more European city, similar to the big cities on the continent.
The rich legacy of tsarism can be seen in its enormous palaces such as the Hermitage , Peterhof or the Catherine Palace .
But apart from Moscow and Saint Petersburg, don’t miss jewels like Sergiev Posad , Suzdal or the Golden Ring of Russia.
Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow
12. Austria
The homeland of Mozart and so many composers is, at the same time, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe . To the rhythm of the waltz and classical music, you can enjoy incredible mountains, alpine lakes or elegant cities such as its capital, Vienna, or the baroque Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace.
Austria is the capital of music and has a rich cultural heritage . The Austro-Hungarian Empire was one of the most powerful states in the world in the 19th century and today we can see its imperial greatness through its elegant palaces such as Schönbrunn or Belvedere , both in Vienna.
But apart from cities and imperial palaces, Austria stands out for its beautiful landscapes. Especially in the alpine region of Tyrol.
Hallstatt, a magical town
13. Belgium
Chocolate, chips and plenty of World Heritage Sites . Still don’t dare to get to know one of the smallest countries on the continent? Due to its political importance, Belgium is considered the heart of Europe .
The country is super diverse. Starting with their regions. Unofficially, Belgium is divided into two main regions : the more rural and French-speaking Wallonia in the south, and the more cosmopolitan and Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north.
Bruges is next to Brussels, the most visited city in Belgium . Their channels will leave you speechless. Regarding Brussels, La Grand Place and its trade union houses will not leave you indifferent. Also take the opportunity to visit other destinations such as Ghent , Mechelen or Antwerp . Its architecture will make you fall in love!
Belgians love to cycle. So you can take the opportunity to delve deeper into its culture and discover one of the most beautiful countries in Europe on two wheels.
Antwerp, one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium
14. Portugal, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. And one of the most underrated!
If you like the beach, Portugal will not leave you indifferent. With more than 800 kilometers of Atlantic coast, the Portuguese country will give you dreamlike sunsets and experiences.
Somewhat overshadowed by its neighbor Spain, Portugal is often undervalued . Its beautiful capital, Lisbon , is a good example of this. There are few capitals as picturesque as the Portuguese. But the positive thing is that, little by little, the country is growing at the tourist level.
A few years ago, only the Algarve beaches and their rock formations were famous . Although luckily, today, other regions such as Alentejo or the Azores are receiving more tourists. The Azores archipelago is a paradise for nature lovers. If you’re looking for a quiet outdoor vacation, you’ll be mesmerized by its volcanic landscapes and myriad opportunities for hiking, diving, or even whale watching.
Obviously, with so many kilometers of coastline, Portugal is primarily a beach destination. But it goes much further! We encourage you to discover Porto and its fantastic wines or the idyllic landscapes and buildings that you will find in Sintra, on the outskirts of Lisbon.
Ponta da Piedade, en el Algarve
15. Netherlands
And finally, to end this post about the most beautiful countries in Europe , we could not forget about the Netherlands . It is one of the smallest, but also one of the most beautiful. It does not have mountains, but if something is not missing, it is windmills and fields of tulips , especially in spring. Don’t forget to visit Keukenhof , the Garden of Europe, to see one of the most colorful landscapes on the continent.
But if we talk about the Netherlands, we must mention the beautiful city of Amsterdam . It is the main tourist destination in the country and when you get to know it, you will understand why. Its picturesque canals, its historic houses, its rich culture, embodied in 40 very important museums, or to try its varieties of cheese, are some of the reasons to get to know the city.
But the Netherlands is much more than Amsterdam and Keukenhof. Being a small country, it is super well connected and you can take many excursions to cities like Rotterdam , The Hague or more charming destinations like Volendam .
