Best Things To Do In Europe

In addition to mouth-watering cuisine and heaps of intriguing history, Greece is famed for its gorgeous collection of islands. You’ll find several idyllic options in the Aegean Sea that’s located just east of the Greek mainland. If you can’t choose between the white-washed villages of Santorini, the beautiful beaches of Rhodes or the ancient ruins of Samos, why not explore all three and more on an exciting island-hopping tour?

Italy and Croatia’s lesser-known neighbor is a wonderful location to enjoy a little R&R. Arrive into Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana and then make your way to the shores of Lake Bled – the country’s most famous body of water. It is located within the picturesque Julian Alps and features a stunning island at its center that is home to a 15th-century church. Soak up its enchanting views from the shoreline or book a relaxing boat tour around the lake.

For those of you who have always wanted to view the Northern Lights in person, few countries are better positioned than Iceland. The Atlantic Ocean island is one of the most popular places to go in Europe thanks to its rugged landscapes and incredible thermal pools. In addition to experiencing the magical Aurora Borealis from the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon, you could also hop in a Super Jeep from Reykjavik and head to a more remote spot for completely unspoiled views of the night sky.

If you’re wondering where to go in Europe for some sensational cuisine, Spain will not disappoint – especially its southern coastal area of Andalucia. In addition to getting your fill of tasty tapas, fresh seafood, and flavorful paella, you’ll have the chance to taste-test some of the best jamon (dry-cured ham) in Spain, which is sourced from the region’s famous iberico pigs. Andalucia, particularly the port city of Cadiz, is additionally known for its sweet sherry. Traditionally drunk as a pre-meal aperitif, it is a must-try for those planning a culinary tour around this sunny Spanish region.

Another lake worthy of a visit in Europe is Russia’s Lake Baikal. Found in the heart of Siberia, it is thought to be the deepest lake in the world and is a hotspot for hikers thanks to the miles of pretty trails leading off from its shores. Baikal is best accessed from nearby Irkutsk, which you can reach by plane from the Russian capital or as part of one of the most stunning train routes on the planet – the Trans-Siberian Railway. Visit in the summer to admire impossibly clear waters or stay out of the cold on a Jeep safari tour in winter, when the surrounding mountains are blanketed in snow.

Portugal is undeniably packed with incredibly beautiful and cultural cities. If you are keen to see a lesser-known side of this balmy, beach-strewn nation, how about a visit to one of its magnificent islands instead? Madeira Island is the largest isle in the Madeira archipelago and boasts plenty of attractions to keep you busy, from pretty pebbled beaches to historic vineyards. One of the best things to do, though, is to journey to the top of the Pico do Arieiro just before dawn to watch the sun rise dramatically above the low-lying clouds.

If the festive season is your favorite time of the year to travel, Germany will hands-down be one of the best places to visit in Europe. Its cosmopolitan cities come alive with Christmas markets and plenty of cheer from late November until Christmas Eve. While you will spot stalls selling hot spiced wine and other traditional treats in Berlin, Munich and Stuttgart, many smaller towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber also host markets to help both locals and visitors get into the Christmas spirit.

Ask anyone where to go in Europe for romance and most people will say France. The Central European country is blessed with dozens of dreamy locations perfect for a couple’s vacation, from the elegant streets of Paris to the fragrant flower fields of Provence. Another fantastic place to take your other half is the lush Loire Valley. As well as exploring its handsome châteauxs and world-class vineyards on foot, why not go one step further and see them from above during a hot air balloon ride?

If you are up for some late-night fun on your next vacation, a pitstop in Ireland’s colorful capital is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Europe. Dublin is well-known for its friendly locals, heady local liquor and lively folk music, all of which you can experience first-hand during a guided pub crawl around the best traditional drinking holes in Temple Bar, the city’s cultural quarter.

Renowned for its cuisine, Italy is another one of the top places to visit in Europe for fantastic food. While you will find plenty of mouth-watering gelato in Rome and all the pizza you’ll ever need in Naples, you won’t regret making your way to Italy’s northwest coast to try some of the country’s crispest and most aromatic white wines. Just 55 miles from Genoa, the Cinque Terre region is made up of five picture-perfect villages fringed by vineyards ripe with Bosco, Vermentino and Albarola grapes. Explore them during a walking and wine-tasting tour which allows you to sample delicious wines while soaking up stunning coastal and rural vistas.

Discover the best things to do in Europe when you book the vacation of a lifetime with Enchanting Travels. Speak to our travel experts today for more Europe travel tips on where to go and what to see in this popular region