This article has been reviewed by Laura and Sumeet, travel enthusiasts who have travelled to 40+ countries. (Follow @Ciao.Namaste on Youtube). Should you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact at contact@exploremonde.com
Want to explore Europe beyond the over-recommended destinations such as London, Rome, Milan, Paris, etc.? We got you covered. Here’s our list of 25 Magical Places In Europe To Visit In 2023 (Spring and Summer).
Magical Places In Europe To Visit
The list is not ranked in any order, you can simply pick and choose which ones you like the most.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany. The palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and in honor of Richard Wagner, the king’s lifelong inspiration.
The palace is known for its elaborate design and opulent decorations, which include a throne room, a singing hall, and a number of royal apartments. The castle’s design was heavily influenced by the operas of Wagner, and many of the rooms are named after characters from his works.
One interesting fact about Neuschwanstein Castle is that it served as the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. The castle’s picturesque setting and fairytale-like design have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany, with over 1.3 million visitors each year.
2. The Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is an iconic piece of Scottish engineering, known for its picturesque setting and its appearance in the Harry Potter film series. It was built in the late 1800s to carry the West Highland Railway across a valley in the Scottish Highlands and is still in use today. The viaduct is over 100 feet tall and consists of 21 arches made of concrete and stone. It is a popular destination for tourists, who come to see the beautiful views and ride the Jacobite steam train, which passes over the viaduct on its way to the Isle of Skye.
3. The Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline in southern Italy, known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning views, and picturesque towns. It is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the warm climate, beautiful beaches, and delicious Italian cuisine.
The Amalfi Coast is home to many charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some of the most popular places to visit include Positano, a colorful town known for its steep, narrow streets and pretty beaches, and Amalfi, the coast’s largest town and a popular destination for boat trips and water sports. The area is also home to many beautiful churches and monasteries, including the famous Cathedral of Amalfi, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Corsica
Corsica is an island in the Mediterranean Sea, located southeast of the French mainland. It is known for its beautiful beaches and rugged, mountainous landscape, which includes the highest peak in the Mediterranean. Corsica is also home to many natural parks and reserves, where visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching.
One of the most interesting things about Corsica is its rich history and culture, which has been shaped by its location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The island has been conquered and settled by a number of different cultures over the centuries, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Genoese, and this rich history can be seen in the island’s architecture, language, and traditions.
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5. Etretat
Etretat is a small town on the Normandy coast of France, known for its beautiful natural scenery and its role in the Impressionist movement. The town is located on the English Channel and is surrounded by white cliffs, natural arches, and a small harbor. It is a popular destination for tourists, who come to admire the beautiful landscape, go hiking and fishing, and visit the town’s small museum, which displays works by famous Impressionist artists who were inspired by the area.
Etretat is also known for its role in the history of aviation, as it was the site of one of the first successful airplane flights in Europe, which was made by French aviator Louis Blériot in 1909.
6. Mont Saint Michel
Mont Saint Michel is a small island and medieval fortress off the coast of Normandy, France. It is known for its beautiful architecture and its strategic location, which made it an important defensive site during the Middle Ages. The island is home to a well-preserved medieval monastery, which was built in the 8th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is also home to a small village, which is surrounded by fortified walls and has a history of resistance against foreign invasions. Today, Mont Saint Michel is a popular tourist destination, with thousands of visitors coming each year to see the island’s beautiful buildings and explore its winding streets and narrow alleys.
7. Sardinia
Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, located off the coast of Italy. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and unique culture. One of the most interesting things about Sardinia is its ancient history, as the island is home to many megalithic sites, including the Nuraghe, which are stone structures that were built by the Nuragic civilization between 1900 and 730 BC.
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The Nuragic civilization was one of the most advanced and mysterious cultures of the ancient world, and the Nuraghe are some of the best-preserved examples of their architecture. Today, Sardinia is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and to explore its rich history and culture.
8. Capri
Capri is a small island off the coast of southern Italy, known for its beautiful scenery, luxurious lifestyle, and celebrity visitors. The island is a popular destination for tourists, who come to see its beautiful beaches, steep cliffs, and famous landmarks like the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with glowing blue waters.
Capri is also known for its high-end shops, hotels, and restaurants, which attract wealthy visitors from around the world. In ancient times, the island was a popular retreat for Roman emperors and wealthy citizens, who built villas and gardens here. Today, Capri is still a place of luxury and exclusivity, with many celebrities, artists, and businesspeople choosing to vacation here.
9. The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is a mountain in the Swiss Alps, known for its distinctive pyramid-shaped peak and its challenging climbs. It is one of the highest peaks in the Alps, reaching an elevation of 14,692 feet, and is one of the most famous mountains in the world. The first ascent of the Matterhorn was made in 1865 by a team of seven climbers, including Edward Whymper, who was an English artist and mountaineer.
The climb was a dangerous and difficult undertaking, and four members of the team died during the descent. Today, the Matterhorn is still a popular destination for experienced climbers, who come to test their skills on its steep, icy slopes. It is also a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, who come to enjoy the challenging terrain and beautiful views.
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10. Madeira
Madeira is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean, located off the coast of Portugal. It is known for its mild climate, beautiful scenery, and unique culture. One of the most interesting things about Madeira is its history as an important stopover for ships sailing between Europe and the New World.
The island was first settled by the Portuguese in the 15th century and became an important port and center of trade. It was also an important source of sugar, wine, and other products, which were exported to other parts of Europe. Today, Madeira is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the island’s beautiful landscapes, warm climate, and rich culture.
11. Greenland
Greenland is the largest island in the world, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. It is a territory of Denmark but has a large degree of autonomy. One of the most interesting things about Greenland is its unique culture, which has been shaped by the island’s harsh climate and isolation. The indigenous people of Greenland, the Inuit, have a rich culture and history that stretches back thousands of years.
They have their own language and traditions and have adapted to life in the Arctic environment through the use of specialized clothing, tools, and hunting techniques. Today, Greenland is also home to a small population of Danish and other European settlers, who have introduced their own cultural traditions to the island. Despite its remote location, Greenland is an important part of the global community and is a member of organizations like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization.
12. Praia da Ursa
Praia da Ursa is a beautiful beach located in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park on the Atlantic coast of Portugal. It is known for its unique rock formations, which include a large sea arch and a series of natural caves. The beach is named after the Ursa (Bear) rock formation, which resembles a bear lying on its back. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery, go swimming and surfing, and explore the nearby caves. Praia da Ursa is also a popular spot for photography and sightseeing, as it offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline.
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13. Santorini
Santorini is a beautiful island in the Aegean Sea, known for its stunning views, white-washed buildings, and blue-domed churches. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, and is a popular destination for honeymooners and couples. One of the most interesting things about Santorini is its geology, as the island was formed by a massive volcanic eruption that occurred around 3,600 years ago.
The eruption created a caldera, or large crater, which is now filled by the sea and forms the island’s beautiful coastline. The island is also home to many ancient ruins, including the city of Akrotiri, which was buried by the volcanic eruption and is now being excavated by archaeologists.
14. The Azores
The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands located in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 miles west of Portugal. They are known for their stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and unique wildlife. One of the most interesting things about the Azores is their geology, as the islands were formed by volcanic activity. The islands are still volcanically active, and many of them have beautiful landscapes, such as hot springs, geysers, and lava fields.
The Azores are also home to many unique plants and animals, including some species that are found nowhere else in the world. The islands are a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and to participate in outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and whale watching.
15. Hohenzollern Castle
Hohenzollern Castle is a beautiful castle located in the Swabian Alps of southern Germany. It is known for its imposing architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The castle was built in the 11th century and has been expanded and renovated many times over the centuries. It is the ancestral seat of the Hohenzollern family, who were a powerful and influential noble family in Germany.
Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming from all over the world to see its beautiful architecture and learn about its rich history. The castle is also a popular location for events and weddings and is often used as a backdrop for film and television productions.
16. Austrian Alps
The Austrian Alps are a range of mountains located in the western part of Austria. They are known for their beautiful scenery, challenging hikes, and world-class ski resorts. The Austrian Alps are part of the larger Alps mountain range, which stretches across several countries in Europe. The highest peak in the Austrian Alps is the Grossglockner, which stands at an elevation of 12,461 feet.
The Alps are home to many unique plants and animals, including ibex, chamois, and eagles. They are also home to many small villages and towns, where people have lived and worked for centuries. The Austrian Alps are a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and to participate in outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing.
17. Zurich
Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland and is known for its beautiful setting, high quality of life, and vibrant cultural scene. Located on the shores of Lake Zurich, the city has a population of over 400,000 people and is a major financial and cultural center. One of the most interesting things about Zurich is its history, as the city has a rich and varied past that stretches back over 2,000 years.
Zurich has been a center of trade and industry since the Middle Ages and has also been an important center of the arts and sciences. Today, Zurich is home to many museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as world-class universities and research institutes. It is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the city’s beautiful setting, vibrant cultural scene, and high-quality restaurants and shops.
18. Lauterbrunnen
Lauterbrunnen is a small town in the Swiss Alps, known for its beautiful setting and its many waterfalls. Located in the valley of the Lauterbrunnen river, the town is surrounded by steep cliffs and towering mountains and is home to 72 waterfalls, including the famous Staubbach Falls.
The town is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and participate in outdoor activities like hiking and climbing. Lauterbrunnen is also a popular location for paragliding, as the valley provides excellent conditions for this activity. The town is located near the Jungfrau, one of the highest peaks in the Swiss Alps, and is a popular starting point for trips to the mountain.
19. Cefalù
Cefalù is a small town on the northern coast of Sicily, Italy. It is known for its beautiful setting, rich history, and charming streets. Cefalù is located on a rocky headland and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Madonie Mountains on the other.
The town has a long history and was founded by the ancient Greeks in the 6th century BC. It was later conquered by the Romans, who built a temple and a theater here, and by the Moors, who left their mark on the town’s architecture and culture. Today, Cefalù is a popular destination for tourists, who come to see its beautiful beaches, charming streets, and historical landmarks. The town is also known for its delicious seafood and its vibrant nightlife.
20. Prague
Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. Located on the banks of the Vltava river, Prague has a long and fascinating history and has been the political, cultural, and economic center of the Czech lands for many centuries. The city is home to many beautiful landmarks and historical sites, including Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square.
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Prague is also a major cultural center and is home to many museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues. It is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the city’s beautiful setting, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere.
21. Dalmatian Coast
The Dalmatian Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline located in the southern part of Croatia. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and charming towns. The Dalmatian Coast is named after the Dalmatian dog breed, which originated in the region. The coast is dotted with many small islands, which can be reached by ferry from the mainland.
The region is also home to many historical landmarks, including the ancient city of Split, which was founded by the Romans. Today, the Dalmatian Coast is a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery, warm climate, and delicious local cuisine.
22. Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands and is known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and vibrant culture. Located in the province of North Holland, Amsterdam is home to over 800,000 people and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city has a rich history and was founded in the late 12th century as a fishing village.
It later became an important trading and shipping center and was known for its many merchants, artists, and scholars. Today, Amsterdam is a bustling metropolis, with a vibrant arts and culture scene and a thriving economy. It is a popular destination for tourists, who come to see its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and world-class museums.
23. Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a small country located in Western Europe, bordered by Belgium, France, and Germany. It is the smallest country in the European Union and is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and high standard of living. One of the most interesting things about Luxembourg is its history as a center of European politics and finance.
The country has a long history of political stability and neutrality and has been an important player in the European Union since its inception. Today, Luxembourg is a major financial center and is home to many international institutions and companies. It is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to see its beautiful landscapes and historic cities.
24. Florence
Florence is the capital city of the Italian region of Tuscany and is known for its rich history, beautiful art and architecture, and delicious cuisine. Located on the banks of the Arno river, Florence has a population of over 400,000 people and is a major cultural and economic center. The city has a long and fascinating history and was a major center of the Renaissance, a period of great cultural and artistic achievement.
Today, Florence is home to many beautiful buildings, museums, and galleries, including the famous Uffizi Gallery, which houses one of the finest collections of Renaissance art in the world. It is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy the city’s beautiful setting, rich history, and delicious food.
25. The Dolomites
The Dolomites are a mountain range located in northeastern Italy, near the border with Austria. They are known for their beautiful, jagged peaks and their unique geological formations. The Dolomites were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, and are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who come to enjoy activities like hiking, climbing, and skiing.
One of the most interesting things about the Dolomites is their geology, as the mountains are made up of a unique type of limestone that was formed millions of years ago. The rock formations in the Dolomites are characterized by sharp peaks and steep, rocky slopes, and are a striking sight to behold. The Dolomites are also home to many rare and endangered species of plants and animals, which have adapted to life in this harsh environment.
Note: The hours of operation, ticket prices, and admission criteria of museums, parks, etc. may change from time to time. For the most updated information, we recommend checking the official website of the attraction directly prior to your planned visit.
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