From dramatic ice caps and jewel-toned lakes to remote islands covered in verdant jungle and volcano craters, explore The Continent differently.
By: Jemima Forbes
5 min
If you thought European destinations were all about snowy mountains, lush vineyards, and romantic rolling hills, think again. The region is definitely one of our top travel destinations to visit and absolutely jam-packed with countries featuring singular and unexpected landscapes. Why not discover a different Europe the next time you visit by adding one or more of the following enchanting locations to your bucket list?
8Furnas, Portugal
While many associate Portugal with its sun-streaked Algarve coastline and cosmopolitan cities, few picture it as a region home to lush green jungles and bubbling volcanoes. To see this sort of scenery, you’ll have to head to the Azores. Around 1,000 miles west of Portugal, this dreamy archipelago is a paradise for outdoor and adventure lovers.
One of the most distinct landscapes you’ll encounter in the Azores is at Furnas on the main island of Sao Miguel. It’s a huge dormant volcanic crater dotted with steaming hot springs, many of which have been turned into therapeutic thermal spas.
With its many city delights and spectacular natural attractions, picturesque Portugal is a treat for all your senses! Delight in some of the most stunning views of Ponta Delgada, including the Blue and Green Lakes, the Valley of Sete Cidades, and the crater lake at Lagoa do Fogo. Savor the flavors of Furnas – sip…
Welcome to the volcanic archipelago of Azores, where you will experience the unique landscape, architecture, wildlife sightings, and more. Start your journey at Ponta Delgada, and discover the sights, sounds, and history of the capital city on a personalized walking tour. Sail out into the waters off the islands and spot the giants of the…
Iceland is a country that never fails to amaze with its distinctive and often desolate scenery. In fact, you could be on another planet entirely if you book a vacation to incredible Skaftafell!
Forming part of Vatnajökull National Park on the country’s southeast coast, Skaftafell offers a stunning backdrop of craggy volcano peaks and glittering glaciers that have been molded into works of frozen art over millennia.
Depending on the time of year you visit, you might spot meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers, tumbling waterfalls framed by lava columns, or magnificent ice caves straight out of fairytales.
Discover southern Iceland, from its unique landscapes and sandy beaches to national parks, glaciers, and clear blue lakes. Cruise in the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, witness Gullfoss Waterfalls and embrace the outdoors at Vik in the Katla Geopark. Do you wish to add more destinations to your Iceland tour? Our experts are happy to recommend places…
Drive down Iceland’s 800-mile Route 1 or Ring Road that encircles the island, exploring some of the top-billed attractions in the country. Discover Husavik and Dettifoss Waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, national parks, and nature baths, and also make scenic stops to hike and walk off the beaten path as you wish. You can customize this itinerary…
If you thought Canada’s lakes were impressive, wait until you visit Croatia! The balmy Adriatic country is typically a popular spot for sailing holidays and days spent on idyllic beaches.
Away from the coastline though, you’ll find a nation brimming with forest reserves, magnificent mountains, and glassy bodies of water. Plitvice Lakes National Park lies at the very heart of Croatia and is famous for its magical lakes and waterfalls.
There are 16 lakes in total which are all connected by a network of cascades tumbling down into a limestone canyon. You won’t believe the bright turquoise, emerald, and cerulean shades of the water! The vibrant hues change depending on the time of day and the level of minerals present in the rocks.
This tour introduces you to the rich culture, cuisine, and natural beauty of Croatia and Slovenia. Discover the medieval history of the two nations, explore the Plitvice Lakes and Lake Bled, and also experience the slow food culture of Istria. Do you wish to see and do more on your personalized tour? Our experts are…
Take in the absolute highlights of Croatia on this personalized, private tour. Explore ‘Game of Thrones’ shooting locations in Dubrovnik with your personal guide, discover the stunning Austro-Hungarian architecture of Zagreb, and relax in quaint coastal towns by the Adriatic Sea and the dramatic Dalmatian Coast. Want to add more destinations or experiences to your…
Spain is easily one of the top travel destinations in Europe. As well as exploring culture-packed cities and diverse countryside on the mainland, why not hop over to Mallorca?
The Mediterranean island is a paradise for those after a relaxing getaway in the sun, with many of its golden beaches reminiscent of coves featured in Caribbean travel brochures! Beyond the sand, you’ll also find dramatic mountains and charming towns dotted with Byzantine, Roman, and Medieval ruins.
Mallorca is equally as popular for an active vacation as it is for R&R. In particular, its excellent roads and miles of gorgeous scenery make it a prime destination for cycling.
Discover the highlights of Spain on this private tour. Beginning in cosmopolitan Barcelona, delve deep into Catalan art and culture with a personalized visit to landmarks by Antoni Gaudi such as La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. Discover everyday life in Barcelona as you visit a bustling local market. Next in the Andalucian beauty, Seville,…
Discover Spain’s three major highlights on this classic tour! Beginning in the capital city of Madrid, take in an eclectic blend of tradition and modernity as you explore the city on a guided tour and visit its world-famous museums. Armed with a local expert in Seville, follow in the footsteps of the Moors at magnificent…
Greece’s landscapes really are the stuff of legends, especially if you make your way to Meteora!
The UNESCO World Heritage site sits at the heart of the country and within the region of Thessaly. Picture sandstone rocks protruding from the earth topped with several ancient and ornate Eastern Orthodox monasteries.
Meteora has been a sacred destination for centuries and it’s not uncommon for Orthodox Christians to plan pilgrimages to the magnificent region. Visit one of six holy sanctuaries on foot to admire breath-taking vistas and inspect myriad relics dating back to the Byzantine era.
The perfect tour for those who want to delve into the history and culture of three fabulous Greek islands. Admire the scenic coast and fishing villages around Naxos, and savor Naxian cuisine through a personalized cooking class. Walk around the lively old market and ruins of the Venetian Fortress at Paros. Visit Oia, the Bronze…
Experience the best of Italy and Greece on this superb 12-day tour. Enjoy guided walking tours of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and Rome, which was the center of the mighty Roman Empire.
If you’ve never seen a volcano up close, book a vacation to sunny Sicily. The Italian isle is an oasis for beach lovers and those obsessed with delicious, homemade gastronomy.
One of the best things to do in Italy has to be soaking up the lunar-like landscapes of monumental Mount Etna. The unmissable peak sits on Sicily’s east coast and measures over 10,000 feet high! It’s Europe’s largest active volcano and constantly on the verge of erupting, with ash plumes and lava clouds not unusual sights.
While you’ll be able to see Mount Etna on the horizon from many points in Sicily, it’s best viewed up close. Why not take the cable car up to its summit and embark on an exciting guided hike around some of its craters?
Be enchanted at Italy’s southern coast where centuries-old history comes together with a dramatic and stunning landscape, preserved coastal towns, and haut monde culture! Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site, discover one of the jewels of the Mediterranean at chic Positano. While staying in coastal Sorrento by the Bay of Naples, visit fishing villages such…
Experience the best of Italy and Greece on this superb 12-day tour. Enjoy guided walking tours of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and Rome, which was the center of the mighty Roman Empire.
Walk in the footsteps of giants, or at least along a stone pathway large enough for them to stroll along, with a trip to the Emerald Isle.
Ireland and Northern Ireland are best associated with rich green landscapes and gorgeous Medieval castles. Much of their scenery is caught up in Celtic myths and legends, including the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway.
Found on Northern Ireland’s north coast, it’s a series of 40,000 huge columns of basalt stone which, from afar, look like a highway for giants! The natural phenomenon is backed by steep cliffs and offers uninterrupted views across the wild Atlantic Ocean.
Go back in time as you soak in the history of seven iconic cities across England and Scotland. Unearth the hidden gems of the bustling city of London, admire the UNESCO-listed city of Bath on leisurely walking tours and stroll down the tree-lined avenues of Oxford and Cambridge. Delve deeper into the history of Scotland…
Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Emerald Isle! Beginning in cultural Dublin, take a heritage walk through its famous landmarks and take in a traditional dinner accompanied by live entertainment at a proper Irish pub! Discover Belfast’s blend of history and modernity as your zip through the city in your private black cab! Travel…
Explore Scotland’s largest urban sprawls and experience the countryside and famous Loch Ness on this private tour. In Edinburgh, acquaint yourself with Highland history as you walk down the Royal Mile and explore the Old Town. Take a tour of the surrounding countryside and discover medieval abbeys that date back to the time of the…
Transport yourself to a real-life Winter Wonderland with an adventure in Franz Josef Land.
Nestled at the edge of the Arctic Circle and within Russia, it’s one of the closest points to the North Pole in Europe and a must-see for fans of polar exploration. The sub-zero archipelago is named after a former Russian Emperor and made up of nearly 200 tiny islands that are covered in ice and snow for much of the year.
Sail through Franz Josef Land on a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic cruise and glimpse sheer glaciers, bell-shaped mountains and the remains of research stations once occupied by some of the world’s most intrepid explorers. The region is also well-known for its plethora of wonderful wildlife – think polar bears, walruses and flocks of arctic seabirds.
Feeling inspired by these unusual and utterly unique sights? Get in touch with our travel experts and start planning a dream vacation to one of these top travel destinations across Europe.
Take a short summer break at the vibrant city of Reykjavík. From fishing like a local in the Faxaflói Bay to snowmobiling on Langjökull Glacier, in-depth explorations of the stunning Golden Circle to swimming in the Blue Lagoon – uncover the best of Iceland! Personalize your Iceland tour and add more destinations or excursions as…
This customizable self-drive tour is ideal for those who want to experience the top attractions of Sicily, and get in a bit of relaxation as well. Admire some of Palermo’s most famous landmarks such as the Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy, and Chiesa della Martorana, a majestic 12th century Byzantine church. Explore…
Drive down Iceland’s 800-mile Route 1 or Ring Road that encircles the island, exploring some of the top-billed attractions in the country. Discover Husavik and Dettifoss Waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, national parks, and nature baths, and also make scenic stops to hike and walk off the beaten path as you wish. You can customize this itinerary…
