Top 10 European Destinations 2024
Need inspiration for your next vacation on the Old Continent? Sun trends, prices, short stays… Discover in this article the top 10 destinations in Europe as well as other travel inspirations according to your criteria.
The Most Popular European Vacation Destinations
- France
- Germany
- Spain
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Greece
- Switzerland
- Austria
- Belgium
- Hungary
The numbers from the European Commission speak for themselves. These 10 countries received the most tourist visa applications in Europe over the past year.
What are the Best Destinations in Europe?
It is challenging to choose the best destinations in Europe objectively. However, statistics allow us to identify 4 countries that travelers continue to favor in large numbers each year. These are France, leading with 2 to 3 million Schengen visas issued per year, followed by Germany, Italy, and Spain, each with 1 to 2 million tourist visas issued annually.
Top European Destinations According to Your Criteria
What is the Cheapest Country in Europe?
Vilnius (Lithuania) is a major stop on the Baltic countries' route. Its old town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is explored on foot, discovering dozens of monuments!
Lisbon (Portugal) is the capital and largest city of Portugal. Ideally located where the Tagus River meets the Atlantic Ocean, the metropolis has a strong connection with the sea. It’s perfect since the sun shines 290 days a year!
Lille (France). At the crossroads of Europe, Lille is a dynamic city with many cultural, historical, and gastronomic attractions. Stroll through Old Lille, visit its numerous museums, including the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and discover local gastronomy. There is so much to do!
Krakow (Poland). Known as the country's "historic city" for its exceptional heritage and festive atmosphere, Krakow is full of surprises and promises a complete change of scenery!
Athens (Greece). Traveling to Greece and especially to Athens is like traveling through time, history, and the culture of Western civilization. From the Acropolis to the Parthenon and the Agora, dive into the past while enjoying the dynamism of the Greek capital.
Based on the City Cost Barometer 2024, these top cheapest destinations in Europe are ranked based on various data such as the cost of a drink, a meal, a 3-star hotel room, a visit, or a public transport ride in several dozen European cities. The rest of the list of the cheapest countries in Europe exclusively includes Eastern European countries: Riga (6), Budapest (7), Bratislava (8), Prague (9), and Warsaw (10).
Where to Go to the Seaside in Europe?
Croatia. Meeting Mediterranean and Eastern traditions, as well as Central Europe and the Balkans, the mix of cultures is a real asset in Croatia. Not to mention its thousands of paradisiacal islands with picturesque landscapes.
Cyprus. The sea, sand, and sun… Located in the heart of the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus has all the ingredients of a "seaside destination in Europe" with the added richness of history. The small island indeed has an impressive cultural heritage of several thousand years.
Sardinia. With over 2000 km of coastline and countless postcard landscapes, the Italian island is a must-visit for all travelers looking for the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.
The Azores (Portugal). This Portuguese archipelago in the heart of the Atlantic charms with its volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and lush flora. It’s the perfect setting for nature and adventure lovers.
Malaga (Spain). Bordered by the Mediterranean, the Andalusian region is a popular destination for its sunny climate all year round, its magnificent beaches, and its rich historical heritage. Not to mention its delicious tapas!
Unsurprisingly, seaside destinations in Europe are mainly concentrated in the south of the continent (or Southern Europe). Coincidence? Not quite, as these destinations all benefit from a pleasant Mediterranean climate to ensure sunny vacations.
Weekend Destinations in Europe
Want to go away for a weekend? Why not discover or rediscover one of the major European capitals! Here are our top weekend destinations in Europe:
Paris (France). The Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Notre-Dame de Paris, the Sacré-Cœur, the Louvre Museum, and the Champs-Élysées. The City of Light has so much to offer that it naturally stands out as a must-visit weekend destination in Europe.
London (United Kingdom). A true melting pot, the English capital offers all its visitors the chance to discover an essential heritage. From Buckingham Palace to the British Museum and Hyde Park, visiting London is as rich as the history of its country.
Amsterdam (Netherlands). Known for its historical attractions, cultural heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow gabled houses, Amsterdam is the ideal destination for a weekend in Europe by bike!
Belgrade (Serbia). The cradle of a rich history and vibrant culture, Belgrade charms with its unique blend of grandiose architecture and lively nightlife. From Ottoman relics to Austro-Hungarian buildings, the Serbian capital offers a captivating tableau of contrasts and authenticity.
Akureyri (Iceland). Nicknamed the "capital of the north," it enchants travelers with its picturesque beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Nestled at the foot of the Eyjafjörður fjord, the small town combines spectacular landscapes, relaxing hot springs, and outdoor activities.
Which Visa to Travel to Europe?
All the destinations mentioned in this article are members of the Schengen Area (except for London and Belgrade), an area of free movement of persons sharing a common short-stay visa policy (up to 90 days). Here are the documents you need to travel there depending on your country of origin:
Are you a citizen of the European Union or the Schengen Area (or associated states)? You can travel to the Schengen Area and the European Union with a valid national identity card or passport (valid for the entire duration of your stay). Also, consider applying for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to confirm your health insurance rights and access healthcare professionals and hospitals during your family trip to Europe.
Are you a citizen of a country outside the European Union and the Schengen Area? To enter the Schengen Area, you must have a valid passport and, depending on your country of origin, a Schengen visa. Find out here which countries' citizens need a Schengen visa.
Do you need a visa? Visit the website of the embassy/consulate of the Schengen Area country you wish to visit to get the necessary information and start your Schengen visa application. Once your visa is obtained, make sure to keep the documents that make up your application, including your insurance certificate covering medical and hospital expenses up to at least €30,000, as they may be requested by border police when entering the Schengen Area country you are visiting.
What Insurance for a Trip to Europe?
Choose peace of mind when applying for a Schengen visa or passing through borders with Europ Assistance's Schengen Travel Visa Insurance. Subscribe online and immediately obtain your insurance certificate recognized and accepted by Schengen embassies and consulates worldwide.
Starting from 3 euros, Europ Assistance's Schengen travel visa insurance allows you to benefit from medical expenses coverage up to 60,000 euros in case of illness or accident and other guarantees in all Schengen Area and European Union countries, as well as the United Kingdom.
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