The most beautiful places in Europe – chosen by you

To celebrate our dazzling European neighbours, we took to Facebook and Twitter to ask our followers to vote for the most beautiful places in Europe – the spots that, quite simply, blew them away. After much debate, here is what our readers and travel experts have whittled down to be the most beautiful places in Europe.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide to travelling in this great region.

1. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice can sometimes feel like visiting another planet. Iceland's landscapes are impressively varied and will often leave you speechless. Pictured below are the craters of Laki that sit beneath a mountain of the same name within Vatnajökull National Park.

For more European inspiration, discover the best countries for summer in Europe.

Where to stay near Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland:

• For a stay with breathtaking views: Hotel Skaftafell
• For a stay with luxury: Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon

2. The pristine beaches of Corsica, France

From snow-encrusted Alps ripe for skiing to pretty cities perfect for exploring on foot – not to mention a vast and varied coastline with historic beaches and glitzy resorts – France has it all. Corsica is known for its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and vibrant culture. These amazing landscapes are some of the best Europe has to offer.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Our tailor-made service allows you to travel without the hassle. Our Iconic France trip will take you from Paris to the French Riviera. All tailor-made trips can be modified together with your local expert.

3. The scenic streets of Andalucia, Spain

From the country's mesmerising landscapes and heavenly beaches to its delicious food, Spain has a beauty all over. Andalusia, a region in southern Spain, is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. It has also been voted by our readers as one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

• For a stay with a nice modern room: Vincci Larios Diez

Or find your perfect accommodation near Andalucia, Spain

4. Lofoten Islands for the northern lights and more

It's no surprise that many of our readers chose Norway as the most beautiful place in Europe. There's beauty all around here, from skies where the aurora borealis dance above at night, to seas that teem with marine life.

The Lofoten Islands in Norway offer breathtaking views of rugged mountains, and picturesque fishing villages — making it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It's also a fantastic place to bring the kids.

5. The beautiful scenery of Lake Como, Italy

This boot-shaped country has a lot to offer: idyllic islands, peaceful lakes and gorgeous mountains. Lake Como, located in the Lombardy region of Italy, is a picturesque destination known for its stunning alpine scenery, luxurious villas, and charming lakeside towns. Discover a host of fun facts about Italy.

Ready to see Lake Como? Our tailor-made trip service makes travelling easy by taking care of the planning and booking. Our Lakes and Mountains trip takes you from Lake Como in Italy to the mountains in Switzerland. Our trips are crafted by local travel experts and are completely customisable.

6. The infamous Bled Lake, Slovenia

A small nation, sandwiched between Croatia and Italy, Slovenia is often overlooked thanks to its increasingly popular neighbours. But that's not because it isn't beautiful. There are gorgeous alpine mountains, pretty little beaches and gorgeous rolling hills dotted with vineyards.

Within a basin surrounded by the rugged, snowcapped Julian Alps lies Lake Bled. This is Slovenia’s most visited resort, northwest of Ljubljana.

Our Croatia and Slovenia trip will take you through Croatia before heading out to see Lake Bled and Slovenia's capital Ljubljana. All tailor-made trips can be modified together with your local expert.

7. Greek islands & monasteries

From ancient ruins to beautiful beaches, Greece has manmade and natural beauty aplenty. Head to Metéora for an otherworldly rock-climbing experience, or island hop your way around the gorgeous Aegean to pretty little beaches like this one on Mykonos.

Dealing with the complexities of your first trip to Europe? Our comprehensive planning guide will simplify the process and ensure you are well-prepared.

8. The rolling hills of the Welsh coastline

You voted Wales one of the most beautiful countries in the world, so it was bound to also turn up here. Rough Guides Twitter follower Kerstin voted for Wales because of its gorgeous sunsets, and who could say no to this one near Llandanwg, on the Cambrian Coast?

9. The alpine meadows of Lauterbrunnen Valley, Swiss Alps

This small but special country full of alpine peaks, tumbling valleys and an extraordinary selection of outdoor activities, is a sight to behold in both winter and summer.

The Lauterbrunnen Valley is a natural wonderland, characterized by its majestic waterfalls, towering mountains, and lush green meadows that are perfect for hiking and skiing.

Planning a trip? Find out the best ways to get to Switzerland.

10. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia — one of the most beautiful places in Europe

Consistently one of the most popular destinations on RoughGuides.com, it's no surprise that Croatia featured heavily in our followers' comments on the most beautiful places in Europe.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a natural wonderland, renowned for its stunning cascading lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

11. The Mediterranean Sea from the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Italy has been selected as one of the most beautiful places in Europe not once, but twice, thanks to its wealth of natural sites.

The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist destination. Come here for the colourful cliffside villages, turquoise waters, and stunning mountainous scenery. This is a fantastic place to take in the Mediterranean sun.

Where to stay off of the Amalfi Coast:

• For a stay walking distance from the beach: La dimora del nonno
• For a stay with city views: B&B Vietri Centro 2

12. The scenic trails of the Kravica Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina

It's no surprise that Bosnia and Herzegovina made our list as it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The stunning country is home to several stunning natural wonders.

The Kravica Waterfalls are no exception. This series of cascading waterfalls create a stunning sight amidst the lush greenery. Take a dip in the refreshing pools or explore hiking trails through the surrounding forests to take in the serene natural beauty.

13. The iconic image of The Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria

Bulgaria's natural beauty makes easily it one of the most stunning places in Europe. With its towering Rila Mountains and sandy beaches of the Black Sea coast, Bulgaria offers visitors a diverse range of landscapes to explore.

The Seven Rila Lakes is a series of seven glacial lakes surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. The views here are simply unforgettable.

14. The coastal towns of The Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

The stunning Bay of Kotor, nestled between towering mountains and crystal-clear waters, helped this country earn its reputation as one of the most beautiful places in Europe — attracting visitors from around the world.

Here you'll find a beautiful bay, known for its tranquil blue waters, majestic mountains, and charming coastal towns.

15. The Fairy Pools of the Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands — known for a rugged and wild landscape characterized by rolling hills, majestic mountains, and shimmering lochs. Few destinations have quite as breathtaking of a terrain.

Our readers chose the Fairy Pools, of the Isle of Skye, as their top pick. Here you'll find a stunning collection of waterfalls and crystal-clear pools nestled in the rugged Cullin Mountains.

Where to stay on the Isle of Skye:

• For a pod-style cabin: Lochview Pods
• For a charming bed and breakfast: Clouds B&B

Or see other options for accommodation on the Isle of Skye

Planning your dream trip to Europe

Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you to Europe or anywhere you have been dreaming of travelling. Simply get in touch when you would like to travel. We will then create a personalized itinerary, which you can amend until you are totally happy with every detail of the booking. All of our planned itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Ready to start planning your trip? Don't miss our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget for more travel tips and inspiration.

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