The Best Places To Visit in Europe for 2024

Europe is filled with awe-inspiring cities, towns and natural areas just waiting to be explored. As we look ahead to 2024, here are 10 top destinations that should be on your travel wish list for the best places to visit in Europe for 2024.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland continually finds itself at the top of many “places to visit” lists, and 2024 will be no exception. The country’s incredible natural wonders like the Northern Lights and geothermal areas never fail to impress visitors. Capital city Reykjavik is vibrant, artsy and perfectly sized for exploring on foot. With new hotels, restaurants and attractions opening all the time, Iceland’s Golden Circle region and the entire country will welcome even more travelers in the new year.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Crowned as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Edinburgh should be high on your list for 2024. Not only will it mark the city’s yearly arts festival that takes over the streets in August. But 2024 also happens to be the 250th anniversary of famous author Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes. Expect a multitude of exhibits, events and ways to immerse yourself in Scottish culture and history throughout the year.

Dublin, Ireland

Like Scotland, Ireland in general sees many travelers hoping to trace their ancestry or experience the culture and dramatic landscapes. Dublin as the capital makes for an ideal home base with medieval castles, buzzing pubs and neighborhoods filled with street art. 2024 will also mark 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement. Cementing the city as a must-see spot to learn about Ireland’s tumultuous past and present peace.

Budapest, Hungary

Divided by the Danube River with spectacular architecture on either side, Budapest deserves repeat visits to fully take in its beauty. 2024 marks the 175th anniversary of the Hungarian capital. Providing the perfect excuse to experience the spa culture, fantastic cuisines and stroll along iconic sights like the Chain Bridge. Make sure to catch one of the countless festivals happening all through the warmer months as well.

Andalusia, Spain

Home to idyllic whitewashed villages, flamenco traditions and top-rated sherry, Andalusia is unparalleled when it comes to culture and heritage. Base yourself between Granada, Cordoba and Seville to discover 700 years of history and architecture left behind by the Romans, Moors and Spanish kings. 2024 gives you a glimpse into the famous tapas, fiestas and natural beauty that has long drawn travelers to this southern Spanish paradise.

Swiss Alps

Towering snow-capped peaks, centuries-old towns and adventure await explorers of the Swiss Alps. 2024 marks the 150th anniversary celebrations of Switzerland’s iconic Jungfraujoch, with new exhibits and guided tours of the “top of Europe” all year. Cities like Interlaken, Lucerne and Montreux along with hiking trails, mountain railways and cable cars keep this destination perpetually stunning. Experience pure alpine magic no matter the season you visit.

Greek Islands

As the birthplace of Western civilization, a journey to Greece unravels layers of history at every turn. The countless island getaways scattered across the azure Aegean and Ionian seas are nothing short of idyllic. In 2024, Santorini marks its 100th anniversary since a catastrophic volcanic eruption buried an entire Minoan settlement. Use this northern Cycladic isle as your home base to explore nearby attractions like Mykonos and Delos along with Greek cuisine and hospitality.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn’s Old Town is often described as the best-preserved medieval city in Europe. And 2024 is a prime time to experience its fairytale atmosphere. The Baltic capital will celebrate its 825th anniversary throughout the year with concerts, theater performances and light displays within the cobblestone streets and town walls. You’ll find innovative restaurants, cutting-edge design and tech innovations alongside the classic Gothic spires and flavor of the Baltic states.

Lake District, England

Wordsworth’s beloved homeland is arguably England at its most scenic. Cumbria’s fells or mountains and glistening lakes have inspired poets and painters for centuries. 2024 marks the 250th anniversary of William Wordsworth’s landmark poetry collection “Lyrical Ballads”. Priming this northwest region of England for literary walking routes, exhibits and events that bring the rugged landscapes to vibrant life.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

How does the most gorgeous coastline in the world not top any best-of list? Every cliffside town along the Amalfi Coast is its own postcard come to life with gnarled lemon groves, pastel-hued houses and nightly seafood feasts. Base yourself midway between Amalfi town and Sorrento to experience a perfect Italian getaway complete with history. Amazing hikes and holiday atmosphere along the Mediterranean.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a dynamic city bursting with creativity as it celebrates 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Immerse yourself in history by exploring remnants along the former path or attending exhibits commemorating reunification. Experience an thriving art scene, remarkable street art, iconic landmarks like the colorful Brandenburg Gate, and vibrant nightlife. Stroll world-class museums or simply wander diverse neighborhoods soaking up the energetic spirit.

Porto, Portugal

Wander cobbled alleys in Porto between ornate pastel villas cascading down to the Douro riverfront, taking in grand bridges and envious views. Admire elegant facades flowing into charming plazas before indulging in local delicacies like robust port wine, hearty francesinhas topped with linguiça sausage, and custard tarts. Savor the romantic scenery and excellent cuisine in this gorgeous cultural gem.

Norwegian Fjords

Towering azure walls form a deep channel carved between verdant hills by ancient ice. Quaint harbor towns like Ålesund nestle along the water’s edge as ferries reveal idyllic villages and new scenic nooks round each turn, framed by sheer cliffsides gently lapping waters. Marvel at nature’s own majestic artwork sculpted over millennia in this remarkable seascape.

The Loire Valley, France

Wander leisurely through rolling countryside dotted with regal châteaus seemingly plucked from fairytales. Imagine extravagant galas within glittering halls of Chambord or languid summer evenings amongst Chenonceau’s manicured gardens strewn with roses. Get transported back centuries in this storied region dotted with perfectly landscaped grounds whispering of romantic lore.

Slovenian Alps

Hike emerald trails through limestone peaks, spying alpine lakes nestled in cirques and forests filled with wildflowers. In rugged Triglav National Park landscapes evoke mountainous epics. Admire plunging ravines and spot elusive brown bears or chamois against a backdrop of Dolomite-esque karst wonderland. Breathe fresh alpine air rich with nature’s splendor.

Prague, Czech Republic

A fairytale city where spires seem hand-painted against pale skies above mazes of cobbled streets and bridges arching the Vltava River below. Wander twisting alleyways ochre with history. Taking in lively plazas and warm cafe culture before unwinding on Charles Bridge at dusk as nightlights play upon waters flowing through the enchanting “Golden City.”

Finland’s Lapland

During winter solstice, thrill to the aurora dancing emeraldand fuchsia waves across the inky sky. Visit Rovaniemi’s storybook Santa Village for treats and photos with Father Christmas himself. Or glide through snowy taiga trailing happy huskies, taking in the magical luminescent display under celestial nights that energize the spirit.

Crete, Greece

Ancient ruins whisper of the sophisticated Minoan zenith while cheerful villages entice with savory meze, honey-spiced wine, and Cretan hospitality. Dip into azure waters lapping immaculate shores or hike through rugged gorges scented with wild herbs. Soaking up 7 millennia of culture embraced by locals with warmth and traditional rhythms of life.

Malta

Soak up over 7 centuries of Phoenician, Roman, Arab and European heritage amongst coastal fortresses and striking limestone landscapes jagged as centuries of history. Wander the alleyways in capital Valletta and admire imposing temples and villages reflecting civilization’s layers at each turn in this scenic archipelago.

Segovia, Spain

Steep cobbled streets wind past well-preserved structures from Romans and Moors like the soaring aqueduct to the famous Alcázar castle within Segovia’s enchanting historic district. Take in renowned tapestries, art and warm flavors of local cuisine. Whilst wandering narrow ways perfumed with flowers and retaining over two millennia of cultural wonders.

Croatian Coast

Medieval hilltowns such as romantic Dubrovnik hug the azure Adriatic coast, ideal for winding down with a glass of Maraštino on scenic promenades. Sail between over a thousand sun-soaked limestone islands exploring remote coves and dining on freshly-caught seafood as twilight paints waters turquoise between verdant heights.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Recovering from past hardship, verdant mountains frame the deep Kravica River canyon and historic Mostar with its iconic bridge rebuilt to unite and heal. Experience cultural mingling and renewed vitality in pretty villages against spectacular Balkan scenery sheltering warm-hearted communities proud of multiethnic heritage.

Final Thought

I hope this list of the best places to visit in Europe for 2024 has inspired your travel wish list and next big trip. With upcoming celebrations, anniversaries and constantly improving infrastructure, Europe remains an unparalleled destination and the new year will bring even more reasons to visit these top cities and regions. Happy travels in 2024!