Due to their rich culture, history, arts, and cuisine, European destinations are always included in everyone’s travel bucket lists. In a survey of more than one million travelers from 172 countries, the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization found the trendiest places worthy of being awarded the title of “Best European Destinations 2024.”
Whether these locations reflect a broad desire for more exclusive travel or simply demonstrate travelers’ preferences for combined cultural and outdoor experiences, the following section highlights the top 10 destinations in Europe. Since this list may also influence readers’ travel plans, the article also includes practical tips for visiting these spots and maximizing the overall experience.
Ten best European travel destinations
- Marbella, Spain – Topping the list with a record-breaking 149,192 votes, sun-soaked Marbella caters to luxurious travelers through its top-class golf courses with stunning views of the Mediterranean, Michelin-starred restaurants with gourmet dishes, and shopping districts that range from supermalls and retail strips to artisanal markets.
- Monaco – Meanwhile, Monaco ranked #2 for its commitment to sustainable tourism. As travelers, especially younger couples aged 25-45, become more environmentally conscious of their impact, Monaco is the perfect green destination that combines wellness, gastronomy, shopping, and water sports and activities.
- Malta – Yet another sunny destination, Malta is appreciated by tourists all over the world for its perfect balance of countryside and coastlines, thus offering distinct scenery and architecture. Besides being consistently voted one of the best diving destinations worldwide, Malta also offers a unique blend of cultures from various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Arabs.
- Geneva, Switzerland – As Switzerland’s second-largest city, Geneva is always included in the yearly ranking. Beyond its diplomatic significance as the home of the European Headquarters of the United Nations, Geneva also boasts a mix of natural wonders and tourist attractions.
- Batumi, Georgia – Considered safer than other historically popular cities like Paris, France, and London, United Kingdom, Batumi is increasingly gaining recognition for its historical architecture and diverse scenery in the mountains and the seas.
- Riga, Latvia – Favored by young travelers looking to explore Europe on a budget, this cosmopolitan capital of Latvia offers rich cultural and historical sights inspired by movements like Romanticism, Gothic, and Baroque — while also being dotted by cozy cafes and fancy restaurants.
- Madeira, Portugal – Also offering a warm climate all year round, the archipelago of Madeira attracts travelers of all types, from enthusiasts seeking gourmet dining and wines to those looking for outdoor adventures like scuba diving, windsurfing, and jet-skiing.
- Florence, Italy – Similar to other Italian cities like Rome and Venice, Florence is widely regarded as an open-air museum due to its intricate basilicas, cathedrals, and palaces. Beyond its aesthetic and artistic appeal, travelers also enjoy Florence for the gourmet delights waiting to be discovered along narrow streets.
- London, United Kingdom – Treated as the perfect destination for a city break, London remains among the popular European cities because of its diverse range of neighborhoods, shopping districts like Notting Hill and Portobello, and tourist attractions like the Big Ben and the London Eye.
- Reykjavik, Iceland – Wrapping up the list of best travel destinations in Europe is Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital with a thriving culture, nightlife, and music and entertainment scene. It is particularly the go-to city among open-minded tourists who prefer open spaces and unique views.
Tips for visiting European travel destinations
Now that you know which European tourist spots to include in your bucket list, here are a few tips to remember when planning your trip and visiting these locations.
Consider upgrading your flights
As visiting Europe typically involves long-haul international flights, consider upgrading your usual economy seats to business class. Besides the added layer of comfort and privacy, you get to save time and energy on check-in, security, and transit. This allows you to remain well-rested for the rest of your trip, whether your itinerary involves sightseeing in romantic Italy or trying out aquatic adventures in Madeira.
Even if business class seats aren’t necessarily in your budget, a previous post suggests affordable ways to do so. These include bidding on a seat upgrade, especially if you’re flying with a foreign airline, as well as using your accumulated credit card points and miles.
Invest in sun protection
Most of the highly sought-after European destinations mentioned on the list have sunny weather, so be prepared to shield yourself from the sun’s heat and ultraviolet rays. Not only do UV rays increase your risk of sunburn and premature skin aging, but they can also affect the eyes and compromise your vision health.
Even on cloudy days, make sure to match your sunscreen application with a pair of sunglasses. Top eyewear brand Oakley offers sunglasses equipped with maximum UV protection and are available in various frame styles and lens options to suit your fashion and functional needs. These include the classic square-shaped Holbrook, the minimalist Sylas with polarized lenses, and the BiSphaera performance eyewear ideal for outdoor activities in adventure-filled environments like Monaco.
Bring a water bottle at all times
Another way to beat the heat and stay healthy while exploring capitals like Geneva and Reykjavik on foot is to pack a reusable water bottle with you. Aside from helping you stay hydrated, carrying a bottle at all times helps you avoid the additional charges for water, which is common among European restaurants.
The brand Valourgo offers a collapsible water bottle for convenient packing and storage, whether you place it in your carry-on, backpack, or tote bag. It features a leak-proof valve, a squeeze-to-drink design, and a 21-oz capacity for your hydration needs.
Learn about the European etiquette
Lastly, don’t forget to research European etiquette to show respect for the city or island you’re visiting. A Business Insider article listing common observations by European workers in the hospitality industry can give you an idea of how to blend in better and remain a respectful, responsible tourist, regardless of where you come from.
For example, learning basic phrases in the local language can help minimize inconveniences when asking for directions or ordering at restaurants. If you’ve booked guided tours in Riga or surfing lessons in Malta, make sure to show up on time as a sign of respect to your guides and fellow tourists.
No matter which of the top European destinations you choose, you can have a more memorable, fun-filled experience when you take the time to prepare the essentials and immerse yourself in the local culture.
