Europe is known for its beauty and industrial prowess. But even though Europe is a really small continent, there are breathtaking sites and places that you could visit. Europe is filled with incredible sightseeing experiences, whether you’re a history buff or a fan of incredible landscapes and scenery, many sights in Europe will be sure to blow your mind.
Here are Europe’s Tourist Places For Sightseeing:
Spain
The Alhambra:
Granada was Spain’s last Moorish stronghold, and it was up until 1492 that the sultans ruled this land. From where? The Alhambra, of course.
The name “Alhambra” comes from the Arabic red palace (al-qala’aal-Hamra), and you will soon see why. This impressive red fortified palace, watching over the city of Granada, was constructed by the Moors in the 13th century. It was where Spain’s very last Moorish sultans lived and ruled. The Alhambra is a complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in the hills above Granada. Its centerpiece is the Nazrid Palace, which is constantly on the list of the best Islamic architecture in the world (along with places like the Taj Mahal, the Mosque in Abu Dhabi, etc). Inside you will find beautiful and colorful geometric tile work, intricate carvings, hidden patios, and so much more. But the Alhambra also contains the Sultan’s summer palace surrounded by exquisite gardens (the Generalife). And for a great view of Granada, you can climb up the old fort, the Alcazaba.
The Alhambra is one of Spain’s most visited attractions (#2 after Sagrada Familia in Barcelona). Therefore, it is extremely important to pre-purchase tickets in advance as tickets can sell out very fast! If you show up on the day without tickets, chances are you will be disappointed. Tickets go on sale a year out, and many start buying them 2-3 months before the date they will be visiting. The Nazrid Palace strictly limits visitors per time slot (~300), so buy in advance to save disappointment!
Although there are guided tours that will whisk visitors through this complex in just a few hours, most like to spend a leisurely day at the Alhambra on top of the hill, taking their time to enjoy each unique part of this amazing attraction.
Sagrada Familia – Barcelona
While Barcelona is packed with interesting things to explore, admire, and eat. Your trip will not be complete if you skip visiting Sagrada Familia. The construction of this structure started in 1882 under the supervision of Paula da Villar, an architect. After a year, he resigned, and Antoni Gaudi took over the project. He changed the design and renovated it with curvilinear Gothic architecture and Art Nouveau. In 1923, Gaudi died, and just one-quarter of this project was finished. Gaudi’s elaborate plans, drawings, and plaster models were partially destroyed during the Spanish Civil War, and it took 16 years for experts to try to reconstruct as much as possible of the documentation of Gaudi’s vision. The structure was scheduled to be completed by 2026, in time for the centennial of Gaudi’s death.
Holy Family (Barcelona)
Please! It would be an absolute lack of respect, of responsibility, of… of… of everything not to mention in this list of tourist places in Europe the magnificent Church of the Sagrada Familia, the most emblematic building in Barcelona and a true feat of modern architecture. With an eccentric design coming from the head of the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, this basilica began its construction in 1883, moving away from the stereotypes of the Gothic and Neo-Gothic churches that governed Europe so much at the time. We could define this temple as a symbol full of symbols because Gaudí thought about it with great care and with a marked interest because it represented the Catholic faith, testimony of this are the eighteen towers that he left stipulated for the construction that represent the apostles, the four evangelists Mary and Jesus.
Italy
One of the most beautiful and amazing countries you can visit in Europe is Italy, and Venice is like nowhere else on Earth. It has such a unique and varied history, architecture, and culture, due to its geographical location and historical significance. It is a fascinating and beautiful city to visit, and one that is incredibly popular with tourists.
It is also home to a thriving artistic community, and renowned for La Biennale de Venezia, the incredible festival which takes place there in the spring. A little research will provide you with a wealth of suggestions for must-see attractions.
My top tips for getting the most out of your stay are:
Consider walking:
It is possible to get to most places on foot, and this is often quicker than going by boat. You will discover hidden piazzas, unusual architecture, and quirky shops and bars, all by wandering a little off the beaten path. Plus it’s always fun to find somewhere new and different to share on your social media.
Visit Ca’ Pesaro:
This international gallery of modern art has an abundance of amazing art and is well worth a visit. It houses works by Venetian Artists, as well as works by Rodin, Kandinsky, and Klee, so visiting is a must for any art enthusiasts.
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection:
It is also an excellent place to visit and is located right on the Grand Canal, providing spectacular views inside and out.
Try the local Cuisine:
Venice is famous for its incredible seafood, and I would recommend tasting some of the local delicacies. If you stray a few streets back from the main touristy areas, you will often find that the prices decrease and the quality increases.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
Visiting the cathedral and baptistery next to the tower in the lovely, grassy Piazza Dei Miracoli (Plaza of Miracles) may be a better reward than climbing the tower since these lesser-known Europe tourist attractions offer some of the best specimens of Romanesque architecture in the entire country.
The Colosseum, Rome Italy:
The city of Rome may be one of the top European tourist destinations in its own right, but the Colosseum, the world’s biggest historic amphitheater, must be seen. Built between 72 and 80 AD to entertain an audience of up to 80,000 people, it displayed the Roman Empire’s might and luxury. The Roman stage crew could put on events like challenging hunters with wild animals appearing from unexpected directions, flooding the arena with water for mock naval battles, staging elaborate gladiator fights, and staging dramas based on Roman mythology thanks to an underground labyrinth of tunnels, walkways, pulleys, and elevators. The old technology will be showcased in a new retractable floor set to launch in 2023.
Capri
The tiny island of Capri in the Tyrrhenian Sea packs a big punch for such a small island of 4.0 square miles. In 2019 Capri welcomed around 2.3 million visitors. If you want beautiful everything then Capri will check all the boxes. Beautiful Italian cuisine, stunning scenery, gorgeous hotels, and ancient historical sites are all found here. Sophia Loren once called this island home along with other Hollywood celebrities. Capri can be accessed via a hydrofoil from Sorrento or Naples, Italy. The ride takes less than an hour and you’ll love looking at the gorgeous blue of the Mediterranean as you quickly glide on the water. When you arrive in Capri you can take a cable car right to the top of the island where you will find jaw-dropping vistas and Instagram-worthy views. Upscale shopping, as well as glam 5-star hotels, attracts many looking for an upscale experience.
To truly experience Capri considers taking either a private boat or a public boat around the island. On your journey, you will be shocked to see the Capri Blue Sea. This distinctive color is due to the sun reflecting from the limestone bottom of the sea. You will cruise through the Lover’s Rock, one of the three Faraglioni rock formations jutting out from the sea. It is believed that if you kiss your lover while moving through the hole in the rock formation you will be together forever. You also can take a small boat to the famous blue grotto. Capri is multifaceted for such a tiny dot on the map. The Romans once built lavish villas here and you can even take a hike to view the ruins. Capri can be combined with a trip to Rome or the Amalfi coast.
Roman Colosseum (Rome):
Pan et Circus was the motto under which shows were offered in the majestic Flavian Amphitheater, better known as the Roman Colosseum. Who does not keep an image in their mind of this impressive construction almost 2000 years old? Surely you have seen movies like Gladiator or Ben Hurand you will have fantasized about these shows, whether you imagined yourself as a spectator, as a gladiator, or even as an emperor; Well, entering this amphitheater is your perfect opportunity to fulfill that fantasy, you will be able to see the stands and imagine the 50,000 people who attended the coliseum shows, see the arena and imagine all kinds of warriors fighting with wild beasts and, finally, place yourself in the square of the emperor and, with your thumb, decide the fate of the poor soul that is placed in front of you.
St. Peter’s Basilica (Rome):
With a deserved place among the most important tourist places in Europe, comes the impressive Basilica of Saint Peter, the epicenter of Catholicism in the world and one of the main exponents of Renaissance art. We could say that this basilica is the heart of the Vatican City, it is here where the Pope officiates the liturgies, and millions of people, whether faithful or tourists of all kinds visit for the beauties it keeps. Several artists took part in its construction, among which we can highlight Bramante, Carlo Maderno, and the legendary Migue Ángel.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence):
For a long time, the Vatican held the title of the location with the most luxuries and the most powerful, this is demonstrated by its solemn buildings until one day the Medici decided to put an end to it and settled in the wonderful Florence, this was the headquarters from where they wielded their power and displayed it lavishly. Among this waste of power, the magical, superb, impressive, and beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria di Fiore was built, one of the most important monuments of Christianity and one of the largest churches in the world. Its beautiful dome was built by Brunelleschi, who spent 14 years alone on this one, which was his masterpiece, and inside it houses pieces of Renaissance art of all kinds, making it, to a certain extent, a museum and therefore one of the most important tourist places in Europe.
Paris
The Eiffel Tower
This wrought-iron lattice structure’s sheer grandeur, elegance, and architectural muscle nearly defy belief when viewed in person, making it one of Europe’s most photographed tourist sites. The Eiffel Tower is bordered by magnificent grassy fields known as the Champs de Mars, which are ideal for a picnic before or after your visit and a great spot to observe the tower’s stunning light shows after dark. The tower has three stories, featuring a Michelin-starred restaurant called The Jules Verne and a Champagne bar at the top. Tickets for the trip can be purchased in advance on the official website, which is essential if you want to avoid long waits.
The Louvre – Paris, France
If you are an enthusiast of history, art, and culture, then this place is worth visiting. The Louvre is the world’s largest art museum and a significant monument in Paris. It has more than 38,000 specimens that date back from the prehistoric era to the modern world. The building was built originally as a fortress during the 12th century according to the guidelines of Philip II. Now, it showcases a lot of unique pieces from the most popular artists in the world. It also houses the most famous painting in the world ‘Mona Lisa’ which was designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
Slovenia
Bled:
In general, Slovenia is an overlooked country when it comes to European travel. However, it offers so much variety to its visitors. Hiking trails, historical cities, beaches, mountains, lakes, and plenty more can be enjoyed during a trip there.
The town of Bled sits on the shores of Lake Bled – arguably one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. The lake is 358 acres in size and the middle of the lake is a small island with a church. The lake and its surrounding natural beauty offer so many highlights for visitors to enjoy.
Some of These Include:
1) Viewpoints: There are some viewpoints around the lake to take in if you want to see the lake from a higher vantage point. On the western end of the lake are the Ojstrica and Osojnica viewpoints and on the eastern end of the lake is the Bled Castle. Taking in the view from up here (especially at sunrise or sunset) is a special experience to have.
2) Walking the Lake: Visitors can also take the 3.7-mile walk around the lake on the trail that hugs the shoreline. It is a beautiful walk to enjoy as you get various angles of the lake and can take time to relax along the way.
3) Swimming & Boating: In addition to viewing the lake from the trail and viewpoints, you can also take a swim or boat ride on the lake. There are a few beaches along the shores in addition to boat launch areas to spend some time out in the water.
4) Triglav National Park: here is where you will find the most majestic mountains in the country, and it is all right nearby Lake Bled. Some of the best hiking trails of Slovenia are a quick drive away from Bled, making it the perfect spot to base oneself during a visit. Some of the top options include the Seven Lakes Valley trail, Mount Vogel & Rodica, the Soca Trail, and of course the highest point in Slovenia – Mount Triglav.
5) Waterfalls & Gorges: the topography of the Bled region and the surrounding National Park results in some beautiful natural landscapes such as waterfalls and gorges. Just outside of town you will find the Vintgar Gorge, a one-mile gorge with crystal clear waters and a boardwalk built into the 300+ foot walls. In addition, there are some great waterfalls within driving distance such as Savica Waterfall and Pericnik Waterfall.
I hope that has given you a good sense of why Bled is one of the top famous sightseeing places in Europe.
London
With over 40 million people a year visiting London (pre-pandemic) for a tourism-related purpose, London plays a key role in Europe’s tourism industry.
Given the number of world-famous tourist attractions in London, this is understandable. London is home to attractions including Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Tower of London, Tower Bridge and so many more.
Of course, in 2022, London is of extra appeal to visitors due to the celebrations of the Platinum Jubilee – 70 years as Queen of England for Queen Elizabeth II. Due to the popularity of shows like ‘The Crown’, the intrigue behind the Royal Family is at an all-time high with celebrations for this event due be broadcast around the world with coverage, and subsequently places of interest for potential visitors, including even more famous sightseeing places in London including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.
What makes London so appealing though is the vast range of other famous stories, landmarks, and people in London that much of the global population is aware of but may not be the first thing that springs to mind when it comes to London. Examples of this include individual stories like Jack The Ripper and Guy Fawkes. Likewise, for sports fans, London is home to ‘the world’s most famous stadium’ Wembley Stadium (which incidentally has more toilets than any other building in the world). In addition, for shoppers there’s the world-famous Oxford Street, for theatre-goers you have Shaftsbury Avenue, and for foodies, there is Brick Lane and the historic and traditional English pubs.
The above is what makes London so appealing to travelers, both corporate and leisure alike, and makes it arguably the most desired city in the world to visit simply for the range of top famous sightseeing places.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is a famous sightseeing place in Europe not to be missed. Buckingham Palace is only open to the public between July 25 and October 22 in 2022. The gardens, Queen’s Gallery, and Ballroom are open to the public during this time.
According to the Palace, they receive 50,000 visitors a year on average.
If you’re not able to visit London when Buckingham Palace is open to the public it is still possible to visit the palace and see it from the outside.
2022 is a particularly special year to visit Buckingham Palace as it is the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, marking her 70 years of service.
The Tower of London:
The Tower of London appeals to a wide variety of travelers. Anglophiles delight in the Crown Jewels display, which is the most popular attraction at the Tower. Medieval history buffs love the intrigue surrounding Richard III and whether he murdered his young nephews, the princes in the Tower.
Others enjoy learning about the failed Gunpowder Plot, in which Guy Fawkes unsuccessfully tried to assassinate King James 1. Nature lovers adore interacting with the ravens; it is said that if they ever leave the Tower, London will fall.
Located in the heart of the city, the Tower of London offers seasonal events, such as this year’s Super bloom of wildflowers to celebrate Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, or in 2014 when the moat was filled with thousands of ceramic poppies to mark the anniversary of World War I. Nearby attractions include Tower Bridge, London Bridge, and the HMS Belfast.
Big Ben (London)
I don’t know how many things we have seen in the past about the famous Clock of the Houses of Parliament, or as it is better known, Big Ben, that is, we have seen its image in cartoons, spy films, animated films and, in general, in many other parts; it has become Banana, it has been dispatched like a space rocket or like a military missile, there are evil geniuses who want to drastically reduce it in size to have it as their table clock and, well, thousands of other things. Did you never long to visit Big Ben because of this? It is indisputable that this tower is the most emblematic building in the city, therefore it is to be expected that it is not only one of the most important Must-see places in London but also in Europe.
Stonehenge – Wiltshire, England
Standing in the middle of the bright green fields, this prehistoric circle of stones on the Salisbury Plain in England is truly one of the must-see European tourist attractions. Looking at this massive creature with vertical stones up to 13 feet high and weighing 25 tons, dating from 3000 BC, will give you a feel of the past unexpectedly and viscerally.
Holland
The Famous Tulip Fields of Holland
As a professional photographer, I can’t say I’ve had a better opportunity to photograph something so pretty. The Tulip fields are one of the best locations to sight-see. Every spring you have hordes of tourists flying across the world just to see these beauties. The fields are littered across Amsterdam; however, the most recognized field is the Keukenhof Tulip garden which stretches up to 40KM with up to 800 different tulips with almost every color under the sun.
One of the most interesting things about the tulip fields is that over 7 million tulips are planted yearly. This staggering amount can be shown below with fields being almost endless.
Walking Amongst the Tulips:
you have to be careful here, generally, you must walk alongside the designated paths. We were told for the sanctity of tulips people are not allowed to lay on the tulips (aw!) nor are they allowed shuffle at a low angle for a quick selfie.
When is the best time to go?
Local experts recommend going at the beginning of spring (generally end of March to May) as this is the time of the year tulips come to bloom.
How do you get your tickets?
Unfortunately, you’ve got to pre-book them online, just turning up doesn’t do it; you won’t be let in!
The pricing varies as shown in the table below:
Keukenhof ticket
Price
Adult (18+)
€ 19.00
Kids (4-17)
€ 9.00
Kids (0-3)
Free
Is there anything to do with the children whilst I’m there?
For those of you worried your little ones will go crazy, fear not aside from the beautiful fields there’s a small playground (the “miffy playground”) where the kids can go to enjoy themselves without tearing up the beautiful tulips.
Monaco
Prestigious, enchanting, and sun-bathed, the Principality of Monaco lights up the world with its legendary beauty, dazzling glamour, and authentic style. This is the place to experience la belle vie! A visit to this little Mediterranean paradise where time stands still, is an invitation to luxuriate in moments of pure delight and an atmosphere of peace, relaxation, and well-being. From prestige hotels luxury spas and private beaches to water sports, cocktails by the sea, shopping trips, and walks through lush gardens Monaco has everything you could need to guarantee unforgettable moments in a truly magical destination.
Monte-Carlo Casino:
As you arrive at the Place du Casino, the sight of this masterpiece by the famous architect Charles Garnier will take your breath away. Built-in 1863, the Casino has been designed around an atrium surrounded by 28 onyx columns, behind which the Salle Garnier, an Italian theatre decorated in red and gold is the veritable miniature replica of the Paris opera house.
Prince’s Palace of Monaco:
The Palace has a long history and has been extended and renovated several times over the centuries. Its origins date back to the early thirteenth century, in 1215. Following a succession of transformations, the ancient Genoese fortress became one of the most luxurious residences of the seventeenth century, in a style extremely characteristic of the Louis XIV era. Prince Honoré II assembled substantial collections of artworks here, which unfortunately disappeared during the French Revolution when the Palace was looted and used as a hospital for troops from the Italian Army. Today, it is possible to admire the splendors of the Palace, including the Palace Chapel, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the Hercule Gallery, the Mirror Gallery, the Red Room, the York Room, the Yellow Room or Louis XV Bedroom, and the Throne Room, as well as numerous frescoes, tapestries, and items of furniture.
Oceanography Museum of Monaco
Built on the side of Monaco’s legendary Rocher, the Oceanographic Museum founded by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco’s great-great-grandfather Prince Albert I has been watching over the oceans for more than a century. The Museum is renowned throughout the world for its expertise and has more than 6,000 specimens on display. From the flourishes on the façades to the décor in the halls, every aspect of the Museum’s architecture evokes the marine world. Since it was opened on 29 March 1910, this Temple of the Sea, 6,500 square meters of which are open to the public, has been an international benchmark for loving, protecting, and raising awareness of the oceans.
Vienna:
Vienna is not only an imperial and cultural city, but so much more: Vienna has many facets, people, and moments of pleasure that make this city so distinctive. It is a capital of pleasure – just as diverse as the city itself are the possibilities for enjoying all of Vienna to the fullest and giving in to sensory intoxication. After the privations of recent months, there is a great desire to indulge again and to escape from everyday life. How do they do that in Vienna? – Well, it’s all about feasting, sniffing, sensing again… and all in Viennese style. There is much to see; from Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral to the Imperial Palace to Art Nouveau splendor, from the magnificent baroque palace Schönbrunn to exciting museums to modern architecture at the Museums Quartier.
Hofburg – Imperial Palace
Vienna’s Imperial Palace is one of the biggest palace complexes in the world. The oldest parts date back to the 13th century. The Imperial Palace, which until 1918 was inhabited by the imperial family, was originally a castle built in the thirteenth century, which was extended to a splendid residence by the increasing power of the Habsburgs and the expansion of their realm. Today, the Imperial Palace houses the office of the Federal President as well as an important congress center and numerous art collections. Historic Heldenplatz, once planned as an extensive imperial forum, is dominated by the monumental equestrian statues of Prince Eugen and Archduke Karl. This spot affords the best view of the Imperial Palace as well as the adjacent Volksgarten.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral:
St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the symbol of Vienna. Construction commenced in the 12th century. Today, it is one of the most important Gothic structures in Austria. It has four towers and, from the tower room (343 steps to go up), there’s a gigantic view across Vienna. A total of 13 bells hang here but the best-known is the Pummerin, the second-biggest free-swinging chimed church bell in Europe. On the roof of the cathedral, colorful roof tiles were laid to create the Royal and Imperial double-headed eagle and the coat of arms of the city of Vienna. The interior of St. Stephen’s Cathedral was changed again and again over the centuries, right through to the Baroque period. In addition to valuable altars and side chapels, the impressive cathedral treasure can also be seen, including relics decorated with gold and precious stones, monstrances, liturgical texts, and books as well as vestments.
Schönbrunn Palace – Vienna
Schönbrunn Palace is known to be Austria’s Versailles, with slightly less opulence and a lot more cake. Schönbrunn contains hundreds of rooms and you can visit up to 40 of the most spectacular ones on a palace tour. One wing of the palace now houses a Children’s Museum, which gives both young and old visitors a taste of life as a little Archduke or Archduchess. The large Schönbrunn Park and gardens are in immaculate condition, all thanks to the Federal authorities. Take a stroll along the magnificent Schönbrunn Gardens and inhale the grand imperial atmosphere. Also, you shouldn’t miss walking up to the Gloriette and getting rewarded with one of Vienna’s most breathtaking views. Expect fountains, fake ruins, statues, and walled gardens. Access to the park and most of the gardens is free.
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Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle – Shwangau
Schloss Neuschwanstein, or Neuschwanstein Castle, is one of the most fully documented of Germany’s historic buildings. The castle itself is located at the southern end of the Romantic Road just outside the village of Schwangau and not far from the town of Füssen. It is in a hamlet called Hohenschwangau which is a brisk half-hour walk uphill from Schwangau. Neuschwanstein Castle itself is another 30-40 minutes steep climb from the ticket office in Hohenschwangau. With its white limestone façade and deep blue turrets, it is rumored to be the real-life inspiration for the castle in the Disney classic, Cinderella, released in 1950. However, travelers with disabilities may not find Neuschwanstein Castle to be particularly accessible, as even the shuttle buses and horse-drawn carriages to the entrance are followed by a short walk. And while the castle is one of the most photographed attractions in all of Germany, no photography is permitted inside the castle, meaning you’ll need to snap those Instagram
pictures from outside.
Istanbul
Hagia Sophia Basilica
Without a doubt, among the most important tourist places in Europe, is the imposing and ancient Hagia Sofía in Istanbul, a monumental basilica erected to the Divine Wisdom and one of the most important architectural testimonies of humanity, with approximately 1600 years of history. History this monument is one of the surviving insignia of ancient Byzantium. Its size is so impressive that in a single glance it is not possible to cover it all, it is also beautiful, its architectural design is solemn and its ornamentations are unique, in addition, the museum that it keeps inside is unique, pieces of the finest art; but do you know what is the most beautiful? That this basilica is the current symbol of union and tolerance, in a single enclosure Christians, Muslims, Jews, and many other creeds coexist and lived together for a long time, as it should be.
Denmark
Nyhavn (New Harbor):
The most famous place to see in northern Europe is easily Nyhavn (New Harbor) in Copenhagen, Denmark. Often, the first image that springs to mind for any would-be traveler to Scandinavia is Nyhavn’s row of colorful houses lining a bustling canal, and understandably so. After all, this centuries-old area in the middle of the Danish capital remains a huge draw for tourists.
To see just how well-known this has become for visitors to the Nordics, all you have to do is look at the numbers. That is, the number of tourists visiting Copenhagen jumped by 74% in the decade up to 2018, with almost 11 million visitors that year. Notably, a huge 87% of these tourists are expected to include Nyhavn on their list of things to see each year, making it easily the most visited place in the region.
When you consider that it’s expected that the number of tourists visiting Copenhagen will leap to 16 million annually by 2030, it’s safe to say that Nyhavn makes the list of most famous places to see in Europe.