Europe

Ultimate Europe Travel Bucket List for 2024

Are you looking for the ultimate Europe Travel Bucket List? Then I got you covered!

Europe is filled with many amazing spots – from historical cities to impressive monuments. There is something stunning to see in every country!

If you are not from around here, you might not even know about all the amazing places you should visit in Europe.

To make the choice a bit easier for you, I have compiled a list with the 21 most amazing bucket list destinations in Europe you need to visit!

Let’s get to it!

london bridge

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1. Hallstatt, Austria

The town of Hallstatt, is a beautiful small village, located right on Lake Hallstatt, in Austria’s Salzkammergut region.

The picturesque little village is famous all over the world. It is definitely one of the must-do things when you are in Europe. This scenic place should be right on top of your European Travel Bucket list in 2023.

There are so many cool things to do in Hallstatt, especially in Summer. Make sure to visit the World Heritage Museum and the unmissable World Heritage view. Of course, you should also consider Hallstatt for Christmas.

Take a trip down memory lane to see the old salt mines and explore the amazing history of the village. The view from the mountain platform over the lake is simply incredible.

And in my opinion, this is one of the best views in Europe. If you are already in Austria and wish to stay a bit longer, make sure to plan an amazing road trip through the beautiful country.

The easiest way to reach Hallstatt is from Vienna by train or by car. You can also book a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt.

2. Algarve, Portugal

The southernmost region of Portugal known as the Algarve is considered to be one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. It should definitely be on your Europe Travel Bucket List.

The Algarve is known for its friendly and hospitable locals, delicious award-winning cuisine, and affordable price points. Known for having at least 300 days of sunshine each year, the Algarve is bursting with many activities. You can try anything from sailing and fishing to dolphin cruises and nature excursions.

Some of the most beautiful natural wonders of the Algarve that are a must-see include The Benagil Cave, the Ria Formosa Natural Park, and Ponta da Piedade for watching the sunsets. 

The best time of year to visit the Algarve is May-June and September-October,. Although, the most popular time to visit is during the summer months. 

The Algarve has some of the best cuisine around and is well regarded for its diverse range of seafood. Some of the dishes visitors must try during their visit to this stunning Portuguese region include Queijo de Figo (Fig Cheese). Also try oysters from Ria Formosa Natural Park, and Pastel de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts).

An excellent, family-friendly hotel in the center of the Algarve is EPIC SANA Algarve. It is set on the beautiful coastline of Albufeira. EPIC SANA Algarve is a luxurious five-star resort that has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool.

3. Tromso, Norway

Tromso, also known as “The Gateway To The Arctic”, is a city located far north of Norway. It is located on an Island called Tromsoya.

Once called the “Paris of the North” due to the unexpected level of sophistication, Tromso is a place worthy to be on the European bucket list of any ardent traveler.

We visited Tromso in mid-December of 2022 seeking an arctic adventure and we got more than we had hoped for.

What makes Tromso beautiful especially in winter, are the perfectly pretty picturesque houses all adorned in Christmas lights and decorations, as well as beautiful streets and ultra-modern architecture.

In addition, the people are surprisingly more open and friendly than portrayed, and the food was excellent! This is definitely an amazing place that should be on everyone’s Europe Bucket List.

4. Amsterdam, the Netherlands

A stunning experience you won’t soon forget is a canal cruise in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. This should be on top of your European Travel Bucket list for 2024. The best time to go to Amsterdam is spring.

Amsterdam is nicknamed “Venice of the North” because it has so many canal waterways. In fact, four of these canals, the Herengracht, the Prinsengracht, the Keizersgracht, and the Singel, make up the Canal Ring of Amsterdam. They are a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the impact and beauty they bring to the city. 

Hop aboard a boat inside the city and watch the world float by as you enjoy a tour of Amsterdam. Choose one of the best canal cruises in Amsterdam based on what you love! You can sit back on a luxury ship and enjoy cheese and win. Also, you can take a romantic evening cruise during the Festival of Lights. Whatever you choose, you’ll sail by famous spots in the city such as the Rijksmuseum, the 7 Bridges, and the Anne Frank House.

Whether you’re in Amsterdam for one day or a few days, a canal cruise is the number one thing you must do! Stay at the Eden Hotel Amsterdam. Comfortable suites and an incredibly walkable location to the center of the city make this hotel a top choice!

There are also many great places in the Netherlands for a weekend trip from Amsterdam, such as the capital city The Hague.

Canals of Amsterdam with former warehouses in the background Europe Bucket list
Credit: Traverse with Taylor

5. White villages of Andalucia, Spain

One of the things you should add to your bucket list is to explore the whitewashed villages in southern Spain. The best way to see them is by renting a car and going on a road trip. A good starting point is Malaga Airport which receives travelers from all over Europe and beyond. You find many great hotels like Soho Boutique Urban.

You will also find some of the best white villages near Malaga, like Frigiliana and Mijas Pueblo. They both overlook the coastline and are great bases for hiking in the surrounding mountains. Coastal towns like Nerja, Salobreña, and Estepona are wonderful destinations in the summer months. You can combine them with days on the beach.

You can also explore the villages of Serrania de Ronda, from Casares and Gaucín to the blue Smurf Village of Juzcar. These villages are best visited outside the summer season and offer amazing hiking opportunities with waterfalls and endless mountain views. You can also try Via Ferratas in the mountains or hike through ravines and rivers like Rio Chillar in Nerja or the Guadalmina River in Benahavís.

There is so much to see and do around the villages. The further into the mountains you get, the less touristy they get. Traveling around to explore the most remote white villages is a great way to uncover the Andalusian culture. This is definitely an interesting place that should be on everyone’s Europe Travel Bucket List.

A great way to visit the white houses in Spain is with a Western Mediterranean Cruise.

Village of Andalucia with lots of white houses in the mountains Europe Bucket list
Linn Haglund of Amused by Andalucia

6. Zermatt, Switzerland

If there’s one magical place that should be on everyone’s European Travel bucket list, it’s Zermatt. The small Swiss mountain village, at the foot of the world-famous Matterhorn, is in the Valais Alps and offers several superlatives. 

In winter, the popular resort village scores with 360 km of ski slopes that reach up to 3883 m.a.s.l., making it the highest ski resort in Europe. TripAdvisor has even named the winter paradise “Best of the Best Destination for Skiers in the World” for 2022. In the warm months, you will find here the largest summer ski resort in the world.  

In summer, the Zermatt region offers the most beautiful hiking routes. Always in view: the landmark of Switzerland and probably the most photographed mountain in the world, the Matterhorn. That iconic mountain is the 5th highest peak in Switzerland.  

The most beautiful views in Zermatt can be reached by train and gondola: the Gornergrat platform at 3100m offers a fantastic view of the Matterhorn, other 28 (!) four-thousand-meter peaks as well as the Gorner glacier, the 2nd largest glacier in the Alps.    

Not the cheapest but an absolute must-see and the highlight of Zermatt is the highest viewing platform in Europe. At 3883 m, the Klein Matterhorn offers the maybe most outstanding view in Europe! From here you can see an incredible 38 (!) of the highest peaks in Europe which are all above 4000 m and 14 glaciers within 3 Alpine countries (Italy, France, Switzerland).    

Picture of Matterhorn in Zermatt with snowy mountains Europe Bucket list
Credit: Linda Bluemel

7. Venice, Italy

For me, there is no more romantic and beautiful place in the world than Venice. The charming and mystical city on the canals is not only a great spot to visit for summer but also an amazing choice year-round.

Venice should definitely be high up on everyone’s Europe Bucket list. Personally, I loved visiting Venice on New Year’s Eve the most!

The city of Venice is filled with interesting history and can nicely be explored by foot or in one of the little gondolas.

There are many fabulous things to do in Venice, like exploring the Doges palace, Murano and Burano as well as the San Marco square.

If you have some more time on your hands, why not make a Northern Italy Road Trip out of it?

gondolas in lagoon in venice with historical buildings in the background at sunset Europe Bucket list

8. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik in Croatia is definitely a highlight on my Europe bucket list for 2023! The best way to visit Dubrovnik is with an Eastern Mediterranean Cruise.

The so-called “Pearl of the Adriatic” has a lot to offer for tourists, as there is nature, culture, gorgeous beaches, and a historic old town to explore! On top of that, it is one of the safest cities in Europe. Here you can easily get around on your own and comfortably explore the region in all its beauty.

Dubrovnik is famous for its historic old town, which is surrounded by an imposing wall. Since 1979, it has been on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. During a tour, you will discover plenty of interesting sights and museums.

A must-do is a walk on the city wall of Dubrovnik, which surrounds the entire city center on a length of about 2 kilometers. Up here you experience a breathtaking view over the red roofs and the deep blue sea, and you can take dreamy pictures of the city.

But also the beaches around the city are stunning, as the water is wonderfully clear and shines in the most spectacular colors. You can take a kayak on-site and paddle along the beautiful coast.

In the process, you will discover sea caves and hidden bays. In any case, you should not miss a boat trip and explore the beautiful island pearls like Lokrum, Lovran, Korcula or Mlijet.

Another must is a ride on the Dubrovnik cable car, from which you will have the most beautiful view of the city, the port, and the Riviera.

Picture of Dubrovnik houses and city wall and ocean
Credit: PlacesofJuma

9. Libournais, France

No country comes to mind as quickly as France does when talking about wine. Many famous wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay originated in France and their versions influenced a lot of wines abroad as well.

The picturesque little villages and the many fabulous wine castles (chateaux) make the region so special. Tour a chateau and learn all about the wine-making process and see the cellar. One of my favorite wine villages in the area is Saint Emilion. There are many cute little wine bars and shops that you definitely need to check out

This region should be on everyone’s Europe Bucket list. If you are planning on staying longer in the area, make sure to visit Dordogne villages.

Wine lovers will also want to make the trip to the Champagne Area outside Paris or the Alsace Wine Route.

10. Blue Lagoon, Malta

The Blue Lagoon in Malta is a beautiful bay located between Malta’s main island and the island of Comino. Malta is definitely a place worth visiting.

If you love sitting on the coast and enjoying the hot sun on your skin while also having fun in the most crystal clear water you’ve ever seen, then the Blue Lagoon is the perfect European bucket list destination for you to visit in 2023.

To get to the Blue Lagoon from the main island, you can take a boat trip or a hop-on-hop-off ferry from the Bugibba harbor in St Paul’s Bay or Ċirkewwa. After docking at the Blue Lagoon, enjoy all the beauty that it has to offer!

Having fun in this bright blue body of water isn’t limited to just sunbathing and swimming. If you want to have an underwater adventure, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving.

For a bit more of an adrenaline rush, go jet skiing or parasailing. Or if you’re looking for something adventurous, explore Comino’s caves and hike the cliffs of Cominotto. And there’s always the option to explore more of Comino too! For an amazing view over all of Malta’s islands, climb up the historic Santa Marija tower, which is only a 30-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon!

It’s important to note that the Blue Lagoon gets very busy during peak season, so if you want to avoid huge crowds, take an early boat/ferry ride there or consider visiting between March and June.

Even if you only got one day in Malta, the Blue Lagoon is well worth it.

Blue Lagoon in Malta, stunning blue water in front of blue sky
Credit: Abi Christina

11. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a destination that should be on your Europe bucket list in 2023. The vibrant city is completely full of interesting history, beautiful landmarks, and castles.

You can visit the famous Schoenbrunn Palace, which used to be home to the famous Empress Sisi.

Make sure to also visit the Vienna Prater, one of Europe’s biggest amusement parks. Reward yourself with a traditional Viennese Schnitzel and a piece of Sacher cake afterward.

In my opinion, the perfect time to visit Vienna is in winter. During Christmas times, the entire city lights up under thousands of fairy lights and Christmas markets open all over town. However, Vienna in Summer is also beautiful.

Another city in Austria worth visiting is Graz.

The author walking in vienna in a coat in front of a building decorated with a red bow for Christmas

12. Rovaniemi, Finland

Come winter, Rovaniemi turns into an idyllic winter wonderland. Located about 500 miles from Helsinki in the Lapland region, Rovaniemi is a popular northern light viewing destination. 

Go hunting for the lights via snowmobile or snow train, or if you’d rather stay warm indoors, book one of the beautiful glass dome accommodations popular in the region. Apukka Resort is a great option that offers a variety of suites and cabins that feature glass domes and large picture windows for Aurora viewing. 

With 3 Days in Rovaniemi, you give yourself more chances to catch the northern lights and to participate in a few other activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice floating. Many of the resorts in the region, including Apukka, offer activities you can book directly through them. 

Also, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Santa in his workshop. Rovaniemi is known as being the birthplace of Santa and you can visit him year-round at Santa Claus Village. The village offers the opportunity to meet the reindeer, cross the Arctic Circle, and book other tours and activities. 

Between the beautiful scenery, aurora spotting potential, and fun activities, Rovaniemi is a wonderful destination that deserves to be on everyone’s Europe travel bucket list. 

Snowy hut in Finland
Credit: Timpani Woodson 

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13. Rome, Italy

The ancient city of Rome is an incredible place to visit in 2023 and is without a doubt Europe bucket list worthy. Rome is one of the places where the cliche “photos can never do it justice” is true. The sheer scale of Rome is so impressive that it can only truly be comprehended by seeing it with your own eyes. It’s indescribable. Rome is definitely worth visiting

There are so many things to do and see in Rome. Ancient Rome created so many extraordinary buildings and landmarks filled with beauty. From the 2000-year-old Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, everything in Rome is beautiful. As a city with so much history, the architecture of the city itself is beautiful. One of the best things to do in Rome is to simply explore Rome for yourself, walking down the streets and seeing what you can find.

Of course, there are plenty of “must-see” things too. Namely the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Roman Forum and many more. That’s just within Rome. There is also the Vatican City within Rome, meaning you can visit 2 countries during your trip to Rome. Vatican City is home to the Vatican Museums which are incredible, including the infamous Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel alone is worthy of being on a bucket list. Words truly can’t describe it.  

The best part of Rome to stay in is near the Roma Termini, it allows you to be within walking distance of everything in Rome. Walking is the best way to get around Rome. If you stay near the Roma Termini, you are roughly 20 minutes walk from the Colosseum in one direction and 20 minutes to the Trevi Fountain in another direction. 

Rome is amazing, and a must-visit at least once in your lifetime. For more Italy inspiration check out my Northern Italy travel itinerary.

Colosseum in Rome
Credit: A Backpacker’s World

14. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

As the land of fire and ice, no trip to Iceland is complete without a visit to Jökulsárlón. Jökulsárlón is the Glacier Lagoon and one of the most popular Ring Road stops on Iceland’s South Coast. Though Iceland has many glacier lagoons, Jökulsárlón is the country’s most well-known for its size, age, and color. This is definitely one of the most impressive items on my ultimate European Travel Bucket List.

The lagoon is over 820 feet deep (~250 meters), making it the deepest lake in Iceland. Jökulsárlón formed in the mid-1900s when the Breiðamerkurjökull glacial tongue started receding from the larger Vatnjökull. As the glacier continues to melt, the lagoon grows and changes each time you visit. No matter when you visit, you’ll find the lagoon glittered with icebergs that come in all shapes and sizes, some of which are over 1,000 years old and several stories high. Eventually, they’ll melt or make their way down to Diamond Beach, a black sand beach that borders the North Atlantic Ocean. 

One of the best ways to get close to the icebergs and up to the glacier head is by going on a zodiac boat tour. On the zodiac, you’ll spend an hour on the lagoon where you’ll make frequent stops to witness large iceberg pieces from all angles. If it’s safe, your guide may take you close to the glacier tongue where you can see the massive glacial wall connected to the even greater Vatnjökull. You might also see seals lounging around, which have no natural predators in the lagoon. 

If you prefer to keep your distance or are looking for a cheaper alternative, there is also an amphibian boat tour that will take you around the lagoon on a larger boat in about ~30 minutes. No matter which tour you take, you’re in for an experience of a lifetime at Glacier Lagoon.

Glacier ice and ocean
Credit: Jina Lee

15. Meteora, Greece

Meteora is a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site in central Greece. This off-the-beaten-path destination is truly a world wonder and a great bucket list destination. Meteora originally consisted of 24 monasteries built on top of naturally formed pillar rocks. The monasteries were built by monks as early as the 14th century, without help from modern construction or technology. 

Today, there are 5 monasteries and 1 nunnery that are still standing and can be visited. You can hike up to the monasteries from the village of Kastraki or drive up to each one. Keep in mind, that there are also several stairs to reach each monastery. The monasteries also charge a few Euros as an entrance fee, so it is important to bring some cash.

Another amazing thing to do in Meteora is to watch the sunset over the rock formations. There are several viewing points in Meteora near the monasteries which are great spots to catch the sunset.

When visiting Meteora, you will want to stay in the small village of Kastraki if you plan to hike up or enjoy a quieter atmosphere, as this village is just below Meteora. Alternatively, you can stay in Kalabaka which is a town with restaurants and a train station. Kalabaka is a short 5-10 minute drive from the monasteries.

To visit this unique place, you can either drive, take a guided tour, or take the train from Athens. Driving to Meteora is a great way to allow you to see other amazing sites in Greece, such as Delphi, by continuing on a Greek road trip. This special place should definitely be on your European Travel Bucket list for 2023.

Can’t get enough yet of Greece? Make sure to check out beautiful Mykonos or impressive Santorini.

Aerial shot of city Meteora in Greece small houses on a huge cliff
Credits: Amber Hunt

16. Dublin, Ireland

Home of traditional music, rolling green hills, and miles of coastline, Ireland is a perfect bucket list destination for 2023. No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to an Irish pub, one of the things that Ireland is known for among visitors. There are pubs located throughout Ireland, from the most remote destinations to the biggest cities. 

In Ireland, pubs aren’t just bars – they may function as small music venues, meeting places, or restaurants. Some pubs are lively and full of people drinking, speaking loudly, and generally enjoying the craic (good times). Others are quieter affairs, where people can sit and enjoy a chill meal alone or with a friend. 

The Wicklow Heather is a warm, traditional pub that serves food near Lake Glendalough, a popular day trip destination from Dublin. If you prefer to stay in Wicklow, there are plenty of wonderfully cozy B&Bs to choose from near the lake. 

Most pubs will carry beer on tap, along with a few Irish staples like an Irish coffee and a hot toddy. If you don’t drink, you can always order a non-alcoholic beer, soft drink, or tea – all of these are perfectly acceptable. There is usually no requirement that you buy food to sit at a pub, a drink is usually a sufficient order. Not all pubs will have food available, so check the website or Google reviews before you go if you’re hungry. 

If you find yourself drinking with the locals, keep in mind that people usually buy drinks in rounds. Someone may buy you a drink with the expectation that you’ll get the next round!  

If you are more of a coffee fan than beer, check out my favorite cafes in London.

17. Camino de Santiago, Spain

One of the greatest journeys to put on your 2023 Europe bucket list is a pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

The most popular route is the Camino Frances, which starts in St. Jean Pied de Port France. This diverse trail passes over the Pyrenees Mountains, meanders through Spain’s top wine regions, twists through charming villages, and finishes at the towering Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela.

The Camino Frances is 779 km and takes an average of 33 days to complete. Alternatively, there are many Camino routes to choose from, including trails that start from Portugal, Seville, Le Puy, and even Germany. Some Camino routes are only a few days and some can take months to complete.

While the destination of the Santiago de Compostela is beautiful and packed with rich history, walking the Camino de Santiago is more about the journey. Those embarking on this both internal and external exploration can stay in Albergues or budget-friendly accommodations for pilgrims.

This sacred path has been walked for centuries, so there is plenty of infrastructure along the way. Find hotels, hostels, bars, cafes, churches, markets, and some of Spain’s most important historical landmarks.

The best tips for walking the Camino are to break-in a good pair of shoes, carry a backpack with as little as possible, and follow the shell trail makers. Let go of expectations, unplug from everyday life, and watch the magic unfold on one of the world’s most incredible pilgrimage routes, the Camino de Santiago.

18. Paris, France

Paris is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. From visiting historically significant sites to experiencing the distinct cuisine of France, there’s something for everyone in this incredible city! Paris should definitely be on your Europe Travel Bucket List of 2023.

For example, one of the must-do activities that should be on everyone’s bucket list is seeing the iconic Eiffel Tower at night. In-person, the Eiffel Tower is so much larger than life, and you can’t help but admire the mastery of this engineering accomplishment. Add in the hourly light show that begins at the top of the hour and everything culminates into a truly unforgettable experience!

And if you’re looking for other activities to embark on, consider wandering along the famous Champs Elysees. This massive boulevard is filled with luxury brand stores and restaurants and rivals Milan as the fashion capital of Europe!

Alternatively, if you find yourself getting overwhelmed by the chaos of the city, you can opt to explore nearby quaint villages in the French countryside!

In terms of places to stay, check out the Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel. With its proximity to the Eiffel Tower and other attractions in Paris, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to make the most of their time in the city!

If you are thinking of checking out Paris around Christmas time, I can also totally recommend it. Everyone that loves Champagne must go on a trip from Paris to the Champagne region.

I can totally recommend a Paris tour to Champagne.

19. Highlands of Iceland

Looking for an untouched, remote, and amazingly beautiful spot in Europe? Look no further! Icelandic highlands have all of these and even more. Active volcanos, black lava deserts, cozy hot springs, and thousands of waterfalls are just a few examples of what Icelandic highlands have to offer.

To reach the highlands you have to drive the rough Icelandic mountain roads, the F-roads. These roads are a huge adventure on their own. They will lead you through out-of-this-world lunar landscapes and you will virtually feel like on another planet.

One of the many hidden gems in Icelandic highlands is a hiking area called Thakgil, or in Icelandic “Þakgil”. Only a very few visitors have already discovered Thakgil. Yet, calling it a hikers’ paradise would be an understatement. Gigantic canyons full of lush green moss, wild rivers, and fantastic 360° views will be your company during all the hikes. On a sunny summer day, you may even observe a melting glacier falling into a ravine right in front of you.

Tired after the hike? Be sure to visit at least one of almost a hundred Icelandic hot springs! Most of them are wild and totally free to try. And the farther you go from the villages and main roads, the higher the chances you will be soaking up in the hot springs completely alone! Talk about a Bucket List Destination in Europe for 2023.

Highlands of Iceland Thakgil Europe Bucket list
Thakgil in Iceland is a hikers’ paradise almost no one has discovered yet.

20. Sintra, Portugal

Sintra is a magical and mysterious place just outside the city of Lisbon and should definitely be on your Europe Travel Bucket List.

During the winter months, misty mountains surround Pena Palace, and in the summer, you’ll enjoy views as far as The Atlantic Coast of Portugal. Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena is one of the most visited sights in Sintra and, for many, an unforgettable experience.

It’s built on a 500-meter-tall hill, and it’s a fabulous example of Portuguese Romantic architecture. Close by, you can visit the Moorish castle. Castelo dos Mouros was built in the 10th century, and you can follow a unique path along the fortress walls.

When you visit the Portuguese capital Lisbon, a trip to Sintra is a must! As a former royal sanctuary, you’ll discover plenty of villas and palaces in Sintra, which are in the middle of the forest.

You’ll also find the medieval National Palace of Sintra, the Arabian-inspired Monserrate Palace, and the forest-covered Monastery Convento dos Capuchos. Another famous place is Quinta da Regaleira. Like Pena Palace, the park and house is classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Carvalho Monteiro designed it, and you might discover signs related to tarot, alchemy, the Knights Templar, and Masonry. The Initiation Well will be one of the most magical places you’ll find in Sintra.

Castle in Sintra Portugal Europe Bucket list
Credit Marga Discover Portugal

21. Athens, Greece

Athens is one of the most iconic cities in the world and a must-visit European travel bucket list destination in 2023.

It is also one of the ultimate bucket list destinations for any traveler on an Eastern Mediterranean Cruise. With its ancient and richly layered history, it has fascinating ruins and monuments that stretch back millennia, just waiting to be explored.

 The city is full of historic sites, from the Acropolis to Ancient Agora and more, steeped in thousands of years of history. Not only can you soak up Athen’s ancient culture, but its sunny Mediterranean climate makes it perfect for exploring in spring and summer – perfect for those who love warm weather.

 If history is not your thing though, don’t despair: you can enjoy some beautiful weather and embrace the vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable city. One of the best things to do when visiting Athens is to try traditional Greek dishes like Gyros and Moussaka. 

 Athens also links to other parts of Greece if you want to island hop and travel around. With links to multiple regions throughout the Greek Islands, you will find plenty of amazing places to get the ferry to like Corfu and Crete. This is a bucket list activity for many and totally worth doing! 

If you want to make the most of your visit to Athens, it’s highly recommended to rent a car. This will allow you to get a true taste of what Greece has to offer and there are plenty of options for all budgets. 

Whether your sights are set on historical landmarks or stunning beaches, Athens has something for everyone! What an amazing Europe Bucket List destination!

Athens historical building acropolis Europe Bucket list
Credit Lowri Thomas

Conclusion: European Bucket List Travel

These were my 21 favorite places that absolutely need to be on your European Travel Bucket List.

Every one of these fabulous European Destinations is worth visiting and you will have a marvelous time in Europe.

If you would rather explore North America or maybe even the Caribbean, I have created multiple bucket lists for every destination in the world.

blonde girl pink dress in front of blue door santorini

About the Author

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends most parts of the year abroad at various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.