25 Breathtaking European Destinations: Charming Towns and Hidden Beaches

The phrase “an embarrassment of riches” could have easily been invented to describe the litany of lovely locales in Europe. Spread across the continent — and sometimes in quite close proximity — are myriad colorful small towns, stately châteaux, Roman ruins, ecclesiastical buildings, medieval castles, shimmering lagoons, and secluded beaches.

While it’s relatively easy to discover (or intentionally seek out) photogenic destinations, defining the most beautiful places in Europe is a bit more challenging because there are just so many. If you’re keen on choosing a spot with endless photography potential, read on for some stunning options.

01. Villa Rufolo, Ravello, Italy

Of all the dreamy Amalfi Coast towns to visit, Ravello continues to spark travel fantasies, music, and art like no other — and Villa Rufolo plays a major role in that. This resplendent maritime residence hypnotizes visitors with its cliff-clinging gardens, unique combination of architectural styles, and panoramas of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

02. Egremni Beach, Lefkada, Greece

A remote slice of paradise on the Greek island of Lefkada, Egremni Beach boasts some of the bluest water in the world. The contrast of the turquoise sea against bright white sand makes it extraordinarily beautiful. Despite being hard to access (require a steep hike down 350 steps), the sheer beauty of this Ionian oasis remains captivating.

03. Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal

Perched atop a rocky peak in the Sintra Mountains, Pena Palace draws a multitude of tourists who flock to the 19th-century castle to capture its vibrant facade and soak in sweeping views. The surrounding park exudes secret garden vibes with shaded walking paths, lakes, and lush ponds.

04. Our Lady of the Rocks, Montenegro

Driving along the scenic Bay of Kotor rewards travelers with captivating sights, none more deserving of a stop than Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island adorned with a 17th-century Roman Catholic church.

05. Bruges, Belgium

On rare occasions, a destination is so beautiful that putting down your camera for even a second means missing a photo opportunity. Bruges is one of those places. The storybook capital of West Flanders resembles a film set with its enchanting canals, cobbled lanes, and prominent medieval buildings, including the iconic Belfry of Bruges.

06. Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, Gordes, France

The Luberon region of Provence is famed for its fragrant lavender fields. Rows of this purple bloom perfuming the air — and creating a striking visual — outside Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a splendid example of a Cistercian monastery that hosts guided tours.

07. São Miguel, Azores

Nicknamed the “Hawaii of Europe,” São Miguel — the volcanic main island in the Azores archipelago, situated in the Atlantic Ocean — boasts breathtaking beaches, lush valleys, crater lakes, dramatic peaks, and surreal steam-emitting fumaroles.

08. Keukenhof, Lisse, Netherlands

Widely regarded as the most beautiful springtime garden in the world, Keukenhof, located about 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam, comprises 32 hectares of vibrant flower bulbs — including tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and lilies — that bloom in a colorful and aromatic display from late March to mid-May.

09. Château de Chambord, Loire Valley, France

Château de Chambord is one of the most recognizable and magnificent crown jewels of the Loire Valley. Constructed by King Francois I in 1519, this impressive royal refuge showcases its French Renaissance architecture, particularly its elaborate roofline and the grand double-spiral staircase.

10. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

The quest for the bluest water in the world leads travelers to Croatia’s famed Plitvice Lakes National Park. Situated between Zagreb and Zadar, this natural wonder impresses over one million visitors each year with its crystalline lakes, waterfalls, and lush forests.

11. Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Classical architecture enthusiasts would undoubtedly include the Colosseum on any list of outstanding historical sites. Built under the Flavian emperors, it is the largest ancient amphitheater ever constructed, seating about 50,000 spectators. The fact that modern travelers can still witness such an enduring symbol of history is remarkable.

12. Lapland, Finland

The Arctic Circle runs through Lapland, a true winter wonderland characterized by snow-dusted landscapes. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, the sky often reveals the mesmerizing northern lights, making this remote region of Finland particularly enchanting between September and March.

13. San Fruttuoso, Italy

Wedged between Portofino Regional Natural Park and the sparkling sea, San Fruttuoso is a postcard-perfect hidden gem on the Italian Riviera with a sheltered pebbled beach, a Benedictine monastery, and scenic hiking trails.

14. Isle of Skye, Scotland

Steeped in legendary allure, the Isle of Skye stretches over 50 miles, overflowing with mist-shrouded lochs, craggy peaks, moorland, pristine beaches, and enchanting castles. Its captivating beauty makes it a favorite filming location for epic adventures.

15. Seljalandsfoss, Iceland

Among the most spellbinding natural wonders in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss is truly breathtaking, plunging nearly 200 feet from the edge of a cliff. The best viewpoint for admiring this awe-inspiring waterfall is from the small cave located behind the waterfall’s curtain.

16. La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain

Designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, La Sagrada Familia is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. Crowds gather outside this captivating Barcelona landmark just to admire its unique design and intricate details.

17. Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle appears as if it belongs in a fairy tale. Teetering atop a hill, this staggering 19th-century palace features towers, turrets, frescoes, and a grand throne room. It exudes a peaceful charm even amidst its imposing architecture.

18. Geirangerfjord, Norway

One of Norway’s most popular and picturesque attractions, UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord inspires awe with its stunning deep blue water, sky-grazing peaks, waterfalls, and lush greenery. Be sure to bring your camera to capture every breathtaking view.

19. Walls of Dubrovnik, Croatia

A must-try activity during any visit to the Pearl of the Adriatic, walking along the iconic walls of Dubrovnik offers unmatched views of its forts, bastions, and distinctive red rooftops, juxtaposed against the blue sea and nearby islands.

20. Hallstatt, Austria

Set on the western shore of Hallstätter See, Hallstatt features 16th-century alpine architecture, quaint cafes, scenic trails, and stunning sapphire water that reflects all the charm of this Austrian village, making it utterly irresistible.

21. Grand-Place, Brussels, Belgium

Navigating the crowds of selfie-stick-wielding tourists at Grand-Place can be worth it, allowing you to gaze in awe at its magnificent landmarks. Notable sites include the Gothic-style Town Hall and the opulent Maison du Roi.

22. Ushguli, Georgia

Seeing Ushguli up close is a breathtaking experience. Nestled in the Caucasus Mountains at roughly 7,000 feet, it is the highest continually inhabited destination in Europe, characterized by ancient Svanetian watchtowers, stone houses, and grazing livestock.

23. Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Denmark

Established long before social media was ever conceived, Nyhavn has an Instagram-worthy reputation for its vibrant waterfront, colorful townhouses, and boats bobbing in the canals.

24. Blue Lagoon, Iceland

As one of Iceland’s most popular attractions — and possibly the most stunning spa in the world — the Blue Lagoon is filled with nine million liters of geothermal turquoise water, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate while gazing at the surrounding volcanic landscapes.

25. Rakotzbrücke, Kromlau, Germany

Rakotzbrücke exemplifies the charm of taking the road less traveled. Despite its seemingly mythical origins, this arched masonry bridge was crafted by humans in medieval times, enchanting visitors with its fairy-tale appearance.