Which European Country Should You Visit? (Based on Your Travel Interests)

Planning a trip to Europe and not sure where to start? We get it. 

With so many incredible countries packed into one continent, choosing just one can feel impossible! But after exploring a huge mix of regions, cities, and landscapes, we’ve put together a guide that matches the best European countries to your travel style. Whether you’re here for food, ancient ruins, or beaches and sunshine, we’ll help you decide where to go. 

We’ve covered everything from nightlife destinations to off-the-beaten-path picks, so keep on reading to figure out where to go next. Who knows, maybe we’ll see you there!

1. If You Love History & Ancient Ruins

If exploring ancient cities is your idea of a perfect vacation, then you’ve got some truly amazing options on offer in Europe. Here, history isn’t just something you read about—it’s everywhere! In some parts of the continent, you’ll find yourself walking past ancient ruins or medieval castles on your way to lunch—and no, I’m not kidding! The countries below all boast buildings that are older than the USA, so if you want to feel the past woven into everyday life, this is where to go.

Italy

If you love history, then Italy certainly lives up to the hype! You’ve got Rome, that feels like a giant outdoor museum. You can spend hours exploring ancient sites like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, and then visit the Pantheon, another masterpiece of Roman engineering. We also love to check out the lesser-known museums when we feel like getting away from the crowds.

Elsewhere in the country, a visit to Pompeii or Herculaneum promises to be an unforgettable experience. These ruins are so well preserved that they really do feel frozen in time! Meanwhile, the beautiful city of Florence delivers Renaissance art and architecture on a whole other level. 

Greece

Greece brings ancient history to life in a very dramatic way. Of course, Athens is a must-visit for any history lover, as ancient buildings are seamlessly woven into the fabric of the city. The Acropolis towers over the city, and I challenge anyone not to feel impressed while standing beneath the Parthenon, especially on this guided Acropolis tour that brings every column and carving to life! Meanwhile, the Ancient Agora gives you a glimpse into daily life thousands of years ago, and Delphi adds a mountain backdrop that makes everything feel even more impressive. 

It’s not all about Athens, though. The islands have their own unique stories. We love Rhodes’ medieval old town, and the Minoan ruins in Crete are a must-visit in my book. The Venetian fortifications in Zakynthos are also really impressive. 

Related Read: There’s more to Greece than ancient history! See our blog on the top things to do in Greece for all of the can’t-miss sights and activities.

United Kingdom

The UK is amazing if you enjoy different layers of history all in one place. London is packed with iconic sites like the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey, and the museums here are genuinely world-class.

Bath is another standout with its Roman baths and beautiful Georgian streets. And if you want something truly ancient, then visiting Stonehenge should be on your list. No one knows how it was built, and the mystery is all part of the fun! 

The university towns of Cambridge and Oxford are also well worth visiting if you want to feel like you’ve finally gotten your Hogwarts letter after all those years of waiting. You can tick off either of these cities on a day trip from London, as it only takes just over an hour on the train. 

2. If You’re an Art, Architecture, and Museum Enthusiast

If you love wandering through galleries and admiring beautiful buildings, then Europe is going to feel like paradise. This is the part of the world where you find amazing museums everywhere you go! You can spend your morning staring at world-famous masterpieces, your afternoon exploring grand palaces, and your evening strolling through neighborhoods that look like they belong on a movie set. The countries below are perfect if you want culture woven into everyday life, because here, art is all around!

France

France is an absolute dream for art lovers. Paris alone gives you more museums than you could ever hope to tackle in one trip! You can explore the Louvre and its endless galleries, the Musée d’Orsay with its incredible Impressionist works, and the Centre Pompidou for something a little more modern. And of course, Paris’ architecture is iconic in its own right, from seeing the Eiffel Tower up close to admiring the details of Notre-Dame.

If you feel like a day trip from the city, Versailles is the ultimate showstopper. The palace is so grand that it honestly feels a little outrageous. Well, more than a little… The outrage surrounding Versailles’ over-the-top opulence helped to kick off a whole revolution!

Italy

Italy is the ultimate destination for anyone who loves art and architecture, and Florence is the star of the show. You can admire Botticelli’s masterpieces here, and even stand face-to-face with Michelangelo’s David. We also just love wandering around here, because the city boasts some of the most beautiful streets in Europe, and taking this guided tour here is truly one of the best ways to see them.

Venice is also unforgettable thanks to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, which both feel like they belong in a fairytale. And of course, Rome is packed with treasures! The Vatican Museums house some of the world’s most famous artworks, and the city’s Baroque architecture is genuinely breathtaking. 

Spain

Spain is bold, colorful, and full of personality, and Barcelona leads the way with Gaudí’s surreal creations. The Sagrada Família and Park Güell are so unique that you’ll probably take a hundred photos before lunch—I know we did!

Meanwhile, Madrid is a must for museum enthusiasts thanks to its famous trio: the Prado, the Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. You could easily spend a full day exploring them! Then there’s Andalusia, which showcases Spain’s Moorish heritage with landmarks like the Alhambra and the Mezquita, which are stunning and full of intricate details. I genuinely think Spain is one of the most culturally rich destinations we’ve ever visited, and it’s somewhere we always feel pulled back to.

Related Read: Make the most of your trip—our guide to the best time to visit Europe explains when each destination truly shines.

3. If You Travel for Food and Wine

If you plan your trips around what you’re going to eat next, then welcome to your happy place! Europe is packed with incredible culinary regions, world-famous wineries, and cities where every meal feels like an experience. From wandering through food markets to sipping local wines straight from the source, these countries are perfect if you foresee food being the highlight of your entire trip.

Italy

It’s no secret that Italy is a dream come true for food and wine lovers. Emilia-Romagna is a must if you want to taste the country’s most iconic ingredients at the source, from Parmigiano Reggiano to silky prosciutto and real balsamic vinegar. Then you’ve got Piedmont, which is heaven for anyone who loves full-bodied reds like Barolo, and if you visit in autumn, you might even get to try fresh truffles. 

Further south, Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and honestly, nothing compares to eating it there. Tuscany is another gem thanks to its rolling vineyards and cucina povera (poor cooking) style. Despite the name, this method focuses on fresh seasonal ingredients and is all about sourcing everything locally, so it’s really about simple dishes done well.

France

France is all about elegant dining and incredible wine. Burgundy and Bordeaux are two of the most famous wine regions on the planet, and both are perfect for leisurely tastings and scenic vineyard views. 

Lyon is often called the gastronomic capital of France, and once you eat in one of its traditional bouchons, you’ll understand why. I highly recommend trying the city’s signature Saint-Marcelli cheese while you’re here, and Rigotte de Condrieu is also a treat for fans of goat’s cheese. This Lyon food tour was one of our favorites for truly experiencing the city’s food scene.

As the capital, Paris offers a bit of everything, from cozy bistros and refined patisseries to Michelin-starred restaurants. But you don’t have to splurge to eat well here, because you can get amazing falafels and crepes from street carts! 

Spain

We’ve already talked about Spain’s bold art scene, and it’s certainly got a food culture to match! It’s one of the best countries to eat your way through, because food is such an experience here, from tiny tapas restaurants to long, social meals that last late into the night. 

Barcelona and Madrid, in particular, both have amazing tapas cultures that make it easy to sample a bit of everything. Then, San Sebastián is legendary for its pintxo bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, and you can easily spend a whole evening hopping from one spot to the next. Wine lovers can also visit Rioja for reds or take a cava tasting trip to try Spain’s celebrated bubbly. 

Portugal

Portugal is one of the best places in Europe for a foodie trip, especially if you want great value for money. Porto is famous for its port wine cellars, and the Douro Valley is a beautiful place for winery tours like this one. Meanwhile, must-try foods here include Bacalhau (salted cod) and Francesinha, which is a layered sandwich with layers of meat, melted cheese, and tomato-beer sauce. It’s more of an entire meal than a sandwich, if truth be told.

Portugal’s other major foodie destination is Lisbon, its charming capital city. Seafood fans will feel right at home here with all of the fresh options available at the cozy, traditional taverns.  Meanwhile, the iconic pastel de nata is the ultimate sweet treat. You can even take a cooking class and learn to make pastel de nata yourself!

4. If You Want Nature, Hiking & Unbelievable Landscapes

If you’re dreaming of fresh air and mountain views, Europe has some incredible options. If you know where to go, you can find panoramic viewpoints over dramatic peaks and valleys, as well as crystal clear lakes and scenic alpine towns. From the rugged beauty of Iceland to the chocolate box appeal of Switzerland, Europe has a lot to offer. We absolutely love being in the mountains—we lived in the Canadian Rockies, after all—and so this is probably the type of trip that we most gravitate towards—not that we don’t love food, art, and history! 

Switzerland

Switzerland is an absolute dream for nature lovers! The Jungfrau region is easily one of the most beautiful places in Europe, thanks to its snow-capped peaks and meadows that look like something from a postcard. Lauterbrunnen is another standout thanks to its dramatic valley and dozens of waterfalls that tumble down steep cliffs. And of course, Zermatt is home to the iconic Matterhorn, which feels almost unreal when you see it in person—and did you know that it was the inspiration behind the Toblerone bar?

One of the best things about Switzerland is how easy it is to explore. The mountain railways take you straight to incredible viewpoints, so you really don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to get your fill of amazing scenery.

Norway

Believe me when I say that Norway does dramatic landscapes like nowhere else. The fjords are the main attraction, especially Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and genuinely breathtaking. Cruising through them is already an incredible experience, but for us, hiking above them is even better!

If you’re up for a challenge, famous trails like Trolltunga, Preikestolen, and Kjerag offer unforgettable views. They’re iconic for a reason! Of course, if you want to hike, summer is the best time to visit. Between late May and late July, the sun never fully sets, which is amazing news for outdoor explorers. Plus, the phenomenon of the midnight sun is really special to see! 

Slovenia

In my opinion, Slovenia is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. Its beauty is truly epic, there’s just no other word for it! 

Triglav National Park and the Julian Alps offer some of the most scenic trails you’ll find anywhere in the world, and it’s all without the crowds you get in more famous alpine regions. I don’t know why it’s so quiet, but I don’t think that these spots will stay secret forever. Lake Bled is also picture-perfect, but we also love Lake Bohinj for its quieter, more laid-back vibe.

The great thing about Slovenia is that the hikes range from very easy to moderate, so it’s ideal if you want beautiful views without needing hours of intense climbing. Everything feels easy and incredibly accessible, so it’s a fantastic choice for both experienced adventurers and those seeking a more gentle adventure.

Iceland

I’m not kidding when I say that parts of Iceland feel like another planet altogether, but I mean this in the best possible way! You get dramatic waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss and black sand beaches framed by towering basalt cliffs, not to mention surreal volcanic landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. 

If it’s your first time in Iceland, we highly recommend the Golden Circle tourist route. It’s a 300-kilometer (186-mile) loop that allows you to hit Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir in one single day road trip.

Then you’ve got glaciers, lava fields, and geothermal pools to explore! Seeing the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik is epic, but you can also visit the Secret Lagoon near Fludir for a quieter experience away from the crowds.

Related Read: For tips on navigating the continent efficiently, check out our guide on how to get around Europe.

5. If Beaches & Islands Are Your Calling Your Name

If your dream vacation involves sea and sunshine, then Europe has some incredible coastal destinations to choose from. From sandy beaches to pretty islands, there’s definitely a perfect spot out there for you. We love a good beach trip, and the great thing about enjoying one in Europe is that you can often pair it with great food and charming old towns. The countries below all offer what we consider to be an ideal mix of beautiful shorelines and plenty of culture. And if beaches are your top priority, we break down more of our favorite coastal spots in our blog about the Best Beach Destinations in Southern Europe here.

Greece

Greece is a total showstopper when it comes to beaches and islands. The Cyclades are the most famous cluster, and for good reason! Santorini brings the dramatic cliffs and those iconic sunset views, while Mykonos is world-famous for its lively beach clubs and pretty windmills. We also love Naxos and Paros because they offer a slower pace of life alongside gorgeous sandy beaches. 

Crete is another popular island. It’s huge and has tons of history as well as lovely coastal scenery. We also think that Balos Lagoon and Elafonisi Beach are two of the most stunning spots in the entire country, with water so bright it almost doesn’t look real! And best of all, you don’t have to choose just one island because you can easily hop around several of them. If you want help deciding which islands pair well together and how to move between them, our Greek island hopping guide breaks it all down.

Spain

Spain is famous for its coastline, both on the mainland and the Balearic Islands. Even Barcelona has beaches! The Alicante region in the southeast is popular with families thanks to its golden shores, while the Costa Brava in the north is known for its scenic coves. Oh, and we can’t forget about the famous Costa del Sol, which boasts resort towns like Marbella and the quieter and more historic Estepona.

Out in the Balearics, Mallorca boasts dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, while Menorca is quieter and more laid back. Both are actually very popular destinations for cycle tourism! Then, you’ve got Ibiza, which is world-famous for its party scene, but there are also quieter parts of the island and beautiful beaches all around. But our favorite might just be Formentera, which is the smallest of the Balearics and feels more Caribbean than European thanks to its pristine white shores!

Portugal

Portugal’s coastline is breathtaking, especially in the Algarve. This is where you’ll find dramatic cliffs and sea caves, including the famous Benagil Cave, which is one of the most photographed spots in the country. The scenery here is rugged and beautiful, and there are tons of beaches to explore if you love a good coastal walk. 

Further out in the Atlantic, Madeira is a year-round sunshine destination that combines volcanic landscapes with incredible viewpoints and natural swimming spots. It’s actually known as “the Hawaii of Europe” and, geographically speaking, it’s closer to Africa than it is to mainland Europe. If you like dramatic beaches, be sure to head to Seixal Beach, which is a black sand beach surrounded by jungle.

Croatia

Oh, Croatia. I think I fell in love with this country as soon as I first landed in Split! It offers an irresistible combination of history and stunning coastal scenery. Going island-hopping is an absolute must while you’re here!

The Dalmatian Coast is dotted with beautiful spots, including Split, where the old town is built into the huge ruins of Diocletian’s Palace. But if you can tear your eyes away from the architecture, you’ll also see that the water here is unbelievably blue, and insanely clear when you’re swimming in the shallows. It’s also super easy to take a day trip over to Hvar, where you’ll find yet more stunning shores.

And of course, Dubrovnik has become super famous in recent years thanks, in part, to Game of Thrones. But even without the TV fame, it’s genuinely one of the most striking Old Towns in Europe. The combination of ancient walls and bright blue water is just incredible in person.

6. If You Want Nightlife, Parties & Festivals

If you love discovering cool bars and staying out late, then Europe has some seriously fun destinations to choose from. Whether you want massive clubs with world-famous DJs or quirky nightlife experiences, there’s something here for every kind of night owl. We love a good after-dark adventure, especially when you can pair it with great food and interesting culture during the day! The countries below are perfect if you’re planning a party-focused trip, a celebratory getaway, or just want to experience Europe at its liveliest.

Spain

If there’s one country that knows how to have a good time, it’s Spain! 

Ibiza is the big one, of course. The island is famous for its superclubs, massive DJ residencies, and all-night parties. It attracts music lovers from all over the world, and the party scene here is truly unparalleled!

Still, Spain’s nightlife isn’t just limited to the islands. The country in general is famed for its late-night culture and social energy. To experience the best of it, make a beeline for the beach bars and clubs in Barcelona, or Madrid’s nightlife is also legendary. 

But to be honest, wherever you go is likely to involve fun nights out because it’s just built into the culture here. Locals eat late, go out even later, and don’t seem to slow down!

Germany

Germany has one of the most iconic nightlife scenes in Europe, especially if you love electronic music. Berlin is the heart of it all, with its industrial warehouses, famous techno clubs, and a “come as you are” attitude that makes everyone feel welcome. Nights here often turn into mornings without you even realizing it—oops!

Meanwhile, Hamburg offers something a little different but just as fun in my eyes. The Reeperbahn is packed with live music venues and indie clubs, and there’s always something happening. And of course, Oktoberfest in Munich should be on every beer-lover’s bucket list. 

Central Europe party cities

Central Europe has a completely different vibe from the big club capitals, but it’s just as much fun. I remember first visiting Budapest and being so enchanted by its ruin bars, which are abandoned buildings that have been transformed into quirky, mismatched bars full of character. The most famous one is Szimpla Kert, but we also love Instant Fogas, which is a huge complex that’s really seven nightclubs in one! Oh, and don’t forget about the big thermal bath parties in the summer, which are so much fun. 

Prague is another classic for party lovers, and it’s a popular choice for bachelor parties. The beer culture here is strong, and there’s no shortage of lively pub crawls on offer—this is one of our favorites. It’s also the home of absinthe, although we suggest approaching that with caution.

Related Read: Want to travel smarter? Don’t miss our guide to common European tourist scams and how to avoid them.

7. If You’re Traveling on a Budget

Traveling Europe on a budget doesn’t mean cutting back on amazing experiences—you just need to know where to go! Some countries offer beautiful cities, great food, and tons of culture for a fraction of what you’d spend in Western Europe. We’ve loved exploring these destinations because you still get that “wow” factor without the eye-watering prices. So if you want affordable meals and plenty of things to see and do without stressing your bank account, the countries below are the perfect places to start. We also rounded up even more great-value destinations in our guide on the best budget-friendly countries to visit in Europe here.

Portugal

Portugal is one of the best places in Europe for an affordable getaway. Lisbon has certainly gotten more expensive in recent years, especially with regard to accommodation, but you can still enjoy meals and activities for less. And Porto is significantly cheaper, so you can eat incredibly well here without spending a lot. Plus, public transport is cheap and super easy to use, so getting around is a breeze.

The city of Fafe isn’t as famous as the aforementioned destinations, but it’s consistently ranked as Portugal’s most affordable destination. We think it’s an ideal place to soak up culture and enjoy Portuguese food. The Algarve also tends to be quite affordable, and you can find really affordable stays in towns like Albufeira, especially if you visit outside of July and August.

Poland

Poland is one of Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations, and we were surprised by just how much we loved it. Cities like Kraków, Gdańsk, and Warsaw are packed with history, and we loved exploring their beautiful old towns. You can enjoy hearty meals, drinks, and cultural attractions for a mere fraction of what you’d pay in places like Paris or Amsterdam—and no, I’m not exaggerating! 

Kraków’s medieval centre is especially charming, while Gdańsk impressed us with its colourful waterfront and maritime history. With affordable hotels, great public transport, and plenty of free and low-cost sightseeing spots, we absolutely loved how easy it was for us to explore Poland on a budget.

Hungary

Hungary is a fantastic choice for travelers who want great value without sacrificing beautiful views or fun things to do. Budapest, in particular, is a gem. The city is known for its iconic thermal baths, which are surprisingly affordable and such a relaxing way to spend an afternoon. You’ve also got hearty Hungarian food, lively ruin bars, and scenic walks along the Danube, all of which you can enjoy without the high price tags of Western European capitals.

We love how much the city offers on a modest budget! You can also take day trips to places like the artists’ town of Szentendre and visit the castle ruins in Visegrad. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly destination that still feels special, we think that Budapest is very hard to beat!

8. If You Want Something Romantic & Dreamy

If you’re dreaming of a romantic trip, then Europe has plenty of places to offer. With beautiful islands, epic scenery, and tons of wine, our list may already have given you some inspiration! Almost every country has the potential for romance, but these three are our top picks for anniversaries and honeymoons, or maybe even proposals! 

Italy

Italy just gets romance. It’s a top destination for weddings and proposals, which makes sense because everywhere you go just feels like a scene from a movie. This is particularly true around the Amalfi Coast, which is an obvious favorite thanks to its colourful cliffside towns and ridiculously beautiful sea views. We were so excited to visit, and it looked exactly how we hoped it would.

Capri is another beauty if you want pretty walking paths and boat trips. And then there’s Tuscany, which feels like someone created it specifically for couples, especially couples who love food! With its wineries, intimate restaurants, and tiny towns built into rolling hills, it all feels very peaceful and intimate. I was ready to pack up and move here!

France

France has romance baked into it. I mean, Paris is known as “the City of Love”, and there’s definitely a good reason for that. It’s a really charming place to explore as a couple, whether you’re strolling along the Seine or watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night. We also loved getting lost in the quieter neighborhoods because we stumbled upon the sweetest cafés and wine bars.

If you want something a bit slower, Provence is beautiful. It’s got lavender fields, and it produces some of France’s best rosé—what more could you want? We also love the French Riviera for its mix of sunshine, coastal walks, and glamorous, colorful towns. 

Greece

Greece is one of our favourite places for a romantic escape. The scenery here is just unreal! Santorini is the most obvious showstopper, and nothing beats watching the sunset over the caldera. However, it’s also famously busy, so if you want something quieter, we actually prefer the smaller Cycladic islands. 

Milos stole our hearts with its little fishing villages and wild beaches, and Paros and Naxos both offer that perfect mix of charm and calm. These destinations make romance feel effortless with their beautiful coastlines and waterfront tavernas, so it’s a good choice if you’re trying to impress that special someone.

Related Read: Considering a road trip? Our guide to renting a Car in Europe breaks down costs, insurance, and driving tips to make your trip stress-free.

9. If You Want Crowd-Free, Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Love exploring away from the crowds? Yep, us too! 

It may seem like everyone and their dog is traveling to Europe, but remember that it’s an entire continent, so not everywhere gets as crowded as Santorini and Venice. If you know where to go, you can enjoy quiet towns and scenic spots almost all to yourself. Plus, less popular destinations tend to be way more affordable than the big tourist hotspots. So if you’re looking to experience authentic culture without dodging huge tour groups every five seconds, these are the countries we think that you should consider.

Slovenia

When we visited Slovenia, I immediately started wondering why it wasn’t packed with tourists. Don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t complaining—quite the opposite, in fact—but it’s just so beautiful that I can’t believe it hasn’t received more hype.

Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana, has an irresistible, storybook-like feel to it, and it’s so walkable that you can see a ton without rushing. Lake Bled is the famous spot that you see on all of the postcards, but it’s one of the country’s busiest tourist spots, so we suggest heading to Lake Bohinj instead, because it’s much quieter but every bit as beautiful.

Then you’ve got the Soča Valley, which is unbelievably beautiful with its bright turquoise river and mountain views. Slovenia is ideal if you want green scenery and a super-easy travel experience that doesn’t involve competing with big crowds.

Albania 

Albania is one of Europe’s most up-and-coming destinations, but it still feels refreshingly untouched—for now, at least! It’s started to generate more of a social media buzz in the last 2-3 years, so I would advise you to go sooner rather than later if you’re someone who likes to say, “I actually went there before it was cool!”

The Albanian Riviera has beaches that genuinely rival Greece, but without the crowds or the high prices. Ksamil and Dhermi, in particular, look like they belong in the Caribbean on a sunny day! Inland, you’ll find Gjirokastër and Berat, two historic stone towns that are full of character.

What we love most about Albania is actually how welcoming it is. The locals here are super proud of their culture and want to share it with visitors – and understandably so! Since it’s less touristy than other parts of Europe, there’s not such a need to book things far ahead of time, and you get it all at a fraction of what you’d pay in neighboring countries.

The Baltics (Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania)

The Baltics are perfect if you want pretty old towns and rich culture without the crowds you get in Central Europe. Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius all have beautiful medieval centres, colorful buildings, and cozy cafés where you can happily spend an afternoon just people-watching! They’re also very affordable, which makes it easy to enjoy great food, museums, and day trips without stressing about your budget.

What surprised us most is how distinct each capital feels. Tallinn has its fairytale charm, while Riga blends Art Nouveau with a lively café scene. Then you’ve got Vilnius feels creative and laid back. Basically, the Baltics are a fantastic choice if you want lots of authentic culture and a refreshing absence of tourist traps.

10. If You Love Christmas Markets & Winter Charm

We’ve talked a lot about beaches and sunshine in this blog so far, but if you’re travelling to Europe in the winter, then you’re still in for a treat. Christmas here is something everyone should experience at least once, because the atmosphere is unparalleled. Best of all, each country has its own Christmas traditions, although festive markets are popular all over the continent. There’s just something so nostalgic about wandering around the bustling squares and drinking hot chocolates or mulled wine.

With that in mind, the countries below are perfect if you want a holiday season that feels warm and wonderful, even when it’s freezing outside!

Germany

Germany is basically the capital of Christmas markets, and no, I don’t think that’s an exaggeration! Cities like Nuremberg, Munich, and Cologne go all in for the festive season. And I mean all in! 

Before I experienced Germany’s Christmas markets for myself, I wasn’t sure whether or not they were overhyped. Happily, the answer was “not”. The atmosphere is just amazing, with rows of traditional wooden stalls selling handmade gifts, gingerbreads, and all kinds of treats that you definitely didn’t know you needed but will absolutely buy. 

We also loved how each market has its own personality—some of them are huge and busy, while others feel more intimate and cozy. I really think that spending Christmas in Germany could get even the Grinch himself into the festive spirit! 

Austria

The best way I can probably explain Austria in winter to you is to tell you to visualize a snow globe! It’s quintessential Christmas magic, through and through.

Vienna’s markets look especially beautiful thanks to all of the elegant buildings that surround them. You’ll find everything from traditional ornaments to delicious pastries and mulled wine, and while Germany’s markets feel very folksy, in Vienna, they feel more stylish and elegant. I’d expect nothing else from this city!

Away from the capital, Salzburg is another winter favorite with its baroque architecture and mountain backdrop. It feels warm and festive without being too busy. It’s hard not to get swept up in the holiday spirit here.

Czech Republic

Prague is one of Europe’s most atmospheric cities in winter. This is especially true at Christmas, when the Old Town Square becomes a festive wonderland with colourful lights and stalls selling everything from hot chocolate to traditional pastries. Oh, and don’t forget about the huge tree in the middle of it all—it’s a bit of a Czech icon! 

But even outside of Christmas, Prague is magical in the winter. You can snag some really affordable deals in January and February, and while the festive season may have finished, you still get a cozy atmosphere and the chance to see Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge in the snow, minus the crowds.

Related Read: If you’re still narrowing down your shortlist, our blog on the best places to visit in Europe offers plenty of destination ideas.

Thanks for reading!

Europe really does have something for every kind of traveler, and that’s what makes planning a trip here so exciting. Whether you’re tracing ancient footsteps in Greece, tasting local flavors in Italy, hiking your way through Switzerland, or lounging on sun-soaked beaches in Spain, there’s a destination that fits exactly what you’re looking for.

Before you head off to plan your route, be sure to check out our other Europe travel blogs here. Whether you’re dreaming of art-filled cities, mountain escapes, foodie hotspots, or hidden gems far from the crowds, we’ve got plenty of resources to help you plan a European trip you’ll never forget. Or check out some of our top-rated guides below!

The Ultimate European Bucket List

21 Best Things to do in Germany

22 Best Things to do in France