Best Countries in Europe (After Visiting All 50) + How to Choose

I’ve been on five continents, but the one continent I have visited the most is my beloved Europe. 

This is where I call home and where I find the most joy that ignites my soul. 

Europe is not a dream destination for everyone, but it sure is the ultimate destination for some. 

I’ve always preached that travel destinations are all the same, and we, the travellers, aren’t all the same either. That’s why not all destinations suit any kind of traveller. 

And to demonstrate that, I have visited all countries in Europe, not just the European Union, and I am so glad I did. 

I want to share with you my personal insights after visiting all these countries in Europe, and try to suggest what kind of travel experience each of these places in Europe offers. 

One of the best ways to visit multiple countries from this list is by planning a Europe road trip across the continent.

Because Europe is a big continent and has 50 countries, I will share some of the most popular categories that people from all over the world use to categorise travel destinations, and for each one, I will include my top picks and provide explanations. For many of these destinations, I have specific in-depth guides that will help you start planning the perfect trip in Europe.

It’s going to be a long list because the list of all the countries in Europe goes up to 50, so let’s begin. 

If you’re planning to visit multiple countries, using an eSIM like Holafly makes it easier to stay connected without changing SIM cards.

Adventure Travel in Europe

I am always up for spending time in nature and unforgettable outdoor experiences. If you don’t know where to start, I’d start with these countries.

These are the best countries in Europe for adventure travel.

Iceland

Iceland, conveniently located between Europe and North America, makes it the closest destination if you’re visiting from North America. But don’t expect Iceland to be a land covered in ice, because you’ll be disappointed. What you will find in Iceland is glacier hiking, active volcanoes, and lots of hot springs.

→ Read: Planning a trip to Iceland
→ Itinerary: 7 days in Iceland

Norway

I’ve said it a lot of times before, and I will say it again. Norway is my favourite country in Europe, and I think you will put it on your list too if nature activities are your thing. Norway is all about hiking, boat and ferry trips, and gorgeous fjords all the time.

I’ve visited Norway more than a few times and did road trips around all the best attractions and hiking trails. So yes, nature is a religion in Norway and you will love it there.

→ Read: Planning a trip to Norway
→ Itinerary: 10 days in Norway

Romania

Romania is my home country, and of course, I know how underrated and gorgeous this country in Europe really is. I feel like the more people come to nature in Romania, the more the word spreads about how awesome hiking in the Carpathians really is. Romania isn’t a small country, and different regions offer different experiences, and the best ones are in nature. Transylvania and the Black Sea Coastline are great spots for extreme sports but also a breathtaking setting for a relaxed trip.

→ Read: Romania’s most beautiful places
→ Itinerary: 4 days in Romania

Nature and mountain views

I bet you don’t know that you can find some of the most dramatic landscapes, peaceful nature, and mountain views in Europe.

These are the countries I’d personally recommend if nature is your priority.

🇨🇭 Switzerland

Switzerland is probably the most iconic destination in Europe when it comes to mountains. Here you have the Alps, crystal-clear lakes, and perfectly maintained hiking trails. Sure, it gets crowded in the summer, but I’m sure you know that the shoulder season is the best time to visit Switzerland.

It’s not the cheapest destination, but if you want that “postcard-perfect” mountain scenery, Switzerland delivers every single time.

🇳🇴 Norway

Norway deserves to be mentioned again here because it’s not just about adventure, it’s about pure natural beauty.

The fjords, the mountains, the endless viewpoints… It’s one of the few places in Europe where you can drive for hours and constantly feel like you’re in a movie.

If you’re into hiking, this is easily one of the best countries in Europe.

→ Read: Most iconic hikes in Southern Norway and Best hikes in Lofoten
→ Itinerary: Driving to the North Cape in Norway

🇬🇪 Georgia

Georgia is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe for nature lovers.

The Caucasus Mountains are wild, less crowded than the Alps, and offer a completely different kind of experience. Expect a more raw, more authentic, and still very affordable trip.

→ Read: Travelling to Tbilisi, Georgia

Other great options:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina – waterfalls, forests, and untouched landscapes
• Liechtenstein – tiny but peaceful mountain hiking destination
• Romania – the Carpathians offer some of the best underrated hikes in Europe
• Sweden – vast forests, lakes, and quiet nature escapes

Culture and history

If your ideal trip in Europe includes walking through ancient cities, visiting museums, and experiencing places with deep historical roots, then you will not be disappointed. Here’s where I recommend you go first.

🇮🇹 Italy

Italy is, without a doubt, one of the richest countries in the world when it comes to history and culture. It’s part of the reason it’s so crowded during summer (please don’t go during summer).

From Roman ruins to Renaissance art and medieval towns, every region feels like an open-air museum. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are packed with landmarks, but even smaller places offer incredible historical depth.

→ Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily
→ Guide: Visit Rome for the first time

🇬🇷 Greece

Greece combines ancient history with beautiful landscapes in a way that few places can. A lot of Europeans love going to Greece on holiday. Some go there every year, and they never change locations.

You’ll find some of the most important archaeological sites in the world, from Athens to smaller islands filled with ruins, myths, and centuries of history.

→ Guide: Visiting Athens for the first time

🇫🇷 France

France offers a mix of royal history, architecture, and cultural influence that has shaped much of Europe.

From grand palaces and cathedrals to charming historic towns, it’s a country where you can experience different layers of history in every region.

→ City break: 2 days in Paris
→ Must-see: Mont Saint-Michel

Other great options:

• 🇨🇿 Czech Republic – medieval towns, castles, and Gothic architecture (especially Prague)
• 🇵🇹 Portugal – maritime history, old cities, and unique architecture
  → Plan: 5 days in Lisbon
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom – historic cities, royal landmarks, and world-class museums
• 🇹🇷 Turkey – ancient cities, layered history, and a mix of European and Middle Eastern influences
• 🇻🇦 Vatican City – one of the most unique cultural and religious sites in the world
• 🇷🇴 Romania – castles, medieval towns, and a mix of Eastern and Western influences
• 🇸🇲 San Marino – one of the oldest republics in the world, small but historically rich

Road trip heaven

If you want to see as much as possible in one trip, a road trip is one of the best ways to explore Europe. I am a big fan of road trips and you’ll find many European itineraries on my blog (all that I have personally driven on and always share my best tips).

The truth is that some countries are simply made for driving, and that offers the ultimate freedom when travelling. These are the countries I’d personally recommend for an unforgettable road trip in Europe.

🇳🇴 Norway

Norway is, in my opinion, the best road trip destination in Europe. I know I am repeating myself, but Norway is, as I said, one of the best overall destinations if you’re into nature and road trips.

The combination of fjords, mountains, ferries, and endless viewpoints makes every drive feel like part of the experience. It’s not just about getting from A to B, but the journey itself is the highlight. Even if you don’t or can’t hike, seeing Norway’s nature from the car is a dream come true.

One of the most memorable routes is driving through northern Norway toward the North Cape, but honestly, you can’t go wrong anywhere in the country.

→ Full guide: Planning a trip to Norway
→ Itinerary: 10 days in Norway

🇵🇹 Portugal

Portugal is one of the easiest and most enjoyable countries in Europe for a road trip.

The roads are good, distances are shorter than in other countries, and you get a mix of coastline, cities, and countryside without feeling rushed.

The Algarve region, in particular, is perfect for a relaxed road trip with incredible views along the coast.

→ Plan: 5 days in Lisbon
→ Explore: Best places in the Algarve
→ Itinerary: 10 days in Portugal

🇭🇷 Croatia

Croatia is one of the best countries in Europe for a coastal road trip. I loved driving along the Adriatic Sea because I had constant views of islands, cliffs, and small towns. And this route offers plenty of stops along the way. It’s the kind of trip where you don’t need a strict plan, because you can just drive and stop whenever something looks good (these are my favourite kind of road trips).

It’s also a great option if you want to combine multiple countries in one trip. I did an entire Balkan road trip, including Croatia, and honestly, it’s one of the most underrated itineraries in Europe.

→ Read: Croatia road trip itinerary

Other great options:

• 🇩🇪 Germany – scenic routes like the Romantic Road and drives through the Bavarian Alps
• 🇮🇪 Ireland – coastal drives, cliffs, and green countryside
• 🇪🇸 Spain – diverse landscapes and long-distance road trip options
• 🇷🇴 Romania – incredible mountain roads like the Transfăgărășan and less crowded routes
  → Read: Transfăgărășan road guide

Food and wine

If food is a big part of how you experience a destination, Europe is one of the best places in the world to travel. The best part is that you can easily travel from one country to another in Europe and experience multiple cuisines in a short time frame. one country to another in Europe and experience mul

These are the countries I’d recommend if you want your trip to revolve around food and wine.

🇮🇹 Italy

Italy is one of those places where food is not just something you eat. Food in Italy is part of everyday life.

Every region has its own specialities, from fresh pasta in the north to seafood and street food in the south. Even simple meals feel like an experience.

If you’re combining food with travel, Italy is by far a top destination in Europe (and probably that’s why it’s so crowded and full of tourists from all over the world).

→ Itinerary: 10 days in Sicily

🇫🇷 France

France is known for its refined cuisine, wine regions, and attention to detail when it comes to food. Wherever you go in France, you’ll notice the bakeries and markets. Some choose the best restaurants in France, but honestly, you just need to go to any market and see how seriously the French take their meals.

It’s also one of the best places in Europe for wine lovers.

→ City break: 2 days in Paris

→ Itinerary: North Brittany road trip

🇪🇸 Spain

Honestly, I am a big fan of Spain, which has a more relaxed, social food culture.

I love the tapas, local wines, and long dinners that are part of everyday life. It’s a great destination if you enjoy trying multiple dishes and eating in a more casual way.

→ City break: 2 days in Seville

Other great options:

• 🇵🇹 Portugal – seafood, local dishes, and Port wine
  → Plan: 3 days in Lisbon
  → Explore: Best places in the Algarve
• 🇭🇺 Hungary – traditional dishes like goulash and a strong local food identity
• 🇷🇴 Romania – underrated food scene with hearty dishes and regional variety

Budget-friendly travel

A lot of people think Europe is expensive, but the truth is that you need to know where to go if you want to save money. Because travelling in Europe doesn’t have to be expensive.

While some countries can quickly drain your budget, there are still plenty of destinations where you can travel comfortably without spending a fortune.

These are the countries I’d recommend if you want to explore Europe on a budget.

🇦🇱 Albania

Albania is one of the best-value destinations in Europe right now.

You get beautiful beaches, mountains, and a growing tourism scene, but at a fraction of the price compared to nearby countries like Greece or Italy.

It’s perfect if you want a summer destination without the high costs.

🇧🇬 Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, especially for longer stays.

You’ll find a mix of beaches, mountains, and historic towns, plus very reasonable prices for accommodation and food.

It’s also a great option if you’re planning a road trip through Eastern Europe.

→ Itinerary: 7-day road trip in Bulgaria

🇵🇱 Poland

Poland offers one of the best balances between price and experience.

Cities like Kraków and Warsaw are rich in history and culture, but still much more affordable than Western Europe.

If you want a city break on a budget, Poland is a great place to start.

Other great options:

• 🇷🇸 Serbia – vibrant nightlife, culture, and very affordable prices
• 🇷🇴 Romania – great value for nature, road trips, and cities
  → Read: Best day trips from Bucharest
• 🇲🇩 Moldova – one of the cheapest countries in Europe, still very underrated
• 🇺🇦 Ukraine – historically one of the most affordable destinations in Europe

Underrated countries in Europe

If you want to avoid crowds and experience something different, Europe still has plenty of underrated destinations that most travellers overlook.

These countries offer unique experiences, often at lower prices and with fewer tourists.

🇲🇩 Moldova

Moldova is one of the least-visited countries in Europe, but that’s exactly what makes it special.

You’ll find vineyards, monasteries, and quiet countryside. But you won’t find all without the crowds you’d get in more popular destinations.

→ Read: Cricova Winery guide

→ City break: 2 days in Chisinau

🇦🇲 Armenia

Armenia is one of the most unique destinations I’ve visited in Europe. I discovered a completely different experience compared to Western Europe, and I loved the dramatic mountain landscapes and the local lifestyle.

→ Read: Armenia travel guide

🇦🇿 Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is where Europe meets Asia, and you can feel that mix everywhere. Honestly, not a lot of Europeans go to Baku, but I truly loved it, and I would go back anytime.

Baku is more modern than you’d imagine, and then you can go on day trips to discover the historical sites and natural landscapes. It’s one of the most surprising destinations in Europe.

→ Read: Travel to Baku guide

🇪🇪 Estonia

Estonia combines medieval charm with a modern feel. Tallinn’s old town is one of the best-preserved in Europe, but outside the capital, you’ll find forests, coastline, and peaceful nature.

→ City break: Top things to do in Tallinn

City breaks and urban exploration

If you’re planning a short trip or want to explore a single destination in depth, Europe is perfect for city breaks.

Many cities are compact, walkable, and full of history, making them ideal for 2–4 day trips.

🇫🇷 Paris

Paris is one of the easiest cities in Europe for a short trip.

You can explore landmarks, museums, and neighbourhoods all within a few days, making it perfect for a first-time visit.

→ Itinerary: 2 days in Paris

🇬🇧 London

London offers a mix of history, modern culture, and some of the best museums in Europe.

Even after multiple visits, there’s always something new to see.

→ Itinerary: London 2-day itinerary

🇨🇿 Prague

Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, especially for a short trip.

The old town, castles, and architecture make it feel like stepping into a different time.

→ Itinerary: 3 days in Prague

Other great options:

• 🇳🇱 Amsterdam – canals, museums, and vibrant city life
• 🇩🇪 Berlin / Munich – history + nightlife
• 🇩🇰 Copenhagen – design, culture, waterfront
• 🇦🇹 Vienna – elegant architecture and culture
• 🇵🇱 Kraków – affordable and rich in history
• 🇭🇺 Budapest – great mix of history and nightlife

Winter wonderland and skiing

If you’re travelling in winter, some countries in Europe completely transform — with snow-covered landscapes, ski resorts, and unique seasonal experiences.

🇦🇹 Austria

Austria is one of the best countries in Europe for winter travel.

With its alpine villages, ski resorts, and cosy atmosphere, it’s perfect if you want a classic winter experience.

🇨🇭 Switzerland

Switzerland offers some of the most iconic winter scenery in Europe.

From ski resorts to scenic train routes through the mountains, it’s a top destination if you want dramatic winter landscapes.

🇸🇪 Sweden

Sweden is ideal if you’re looking for a quieter and more nature-focused winter experience.

From snowy forests to the chance of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s very different from central Europe.

• Austria – Skiing resorts, alpine views, and cosy villages
• Sweden – Winter sports, Northern Lights, and vast wilderness
• Latvia – Winter landscapes, cosy traditions, and outdoor activities
• Andorra – Skiing, trekking, and mountain biking
• Switzerland – World-famous ski resorts and train routes between the mountains
• Bulgaria – Bansko is one of the most popular budget-friendly ski resorts in Europe

Beach destinations

If your ideal trip means sunshine, swimming, and coastal views, Europe has some incredible beach destinations. Over the years, I have discovered so many coastlines that I fell in love with, from dramatic cliffs to calm turquoise waters.

Some countries are perfect for a relaxed beach holiday, while others are better for combining beaches with road trips or city breaks.

🇵🇹 Portugal

Portugal is one of the best beach destinations in Europe, especially if you want variety.

The Algarve region offers dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and some of the most scenic coastal views you’ll find anywhere in Europe. I recommend visiting in early spring when most places are empty. It’s also easy to combine with cities like Lisbon for a more complete trip.

→ Plan: Algarve in February
→ Explore: Best places in the Algarve
→ Itinerary: 10 days in Portugal

🇬🇷 Greece

Greece is one of the most iconic beach destinations in Europe.

With hundreds of islands, crystal-clear water, and a mix of lively and quiet spots, it’s the kind of place you can return to multiple times and have a completely different experience each time.

It’s perfect if you want that classic Mediterranean beach vibe.

🇭🇷 Croatia

Croatia is ideal if you want to combine beaches with a road trip.

Driving along the Adriatic coast gives you access to countless beaches, islands, small towns and beautiful views along the way.

It’s one of the easiest countries to explore by car while still enjoying beach destinations.

→ Read: Balkan road trip itinerary

How to choose your next travel destination in Europe?

After visiting all countries in Europe, I’ve learned that there is no single “best” destination.

The best place to visit depends entirely on what kind of trip you’re looking for.

If you want adventure, you’ll choose very differently from someone planning a relaxing beach holiday or a short city break.

That’s exactly why I grouped countries in this guide based on travel style — to make it easier for you to decide what actually fits your trip.

If reading this has sparked an idea for your next trip and you want help turning it into an actual itinerary, I offer custom trip planning for European travel →.

A simple way to choose

• Adventure & nature → Norway, Iceland
• Beaches & summer trips → Portugal, Greece, Croatia
• City breaks → Paris, Prague, London
• Road trips → Norway, Portugal, Croatia
• Budget travel → Albania, Bulgaria, Poland
• Underrated destinations → Moldova, Armenia, Estonia

Once you know what kind of experience you’re looking for, planning your trip becomes much easier.

Start planning your trip

If you’re still unsure where to begin, these guides will help you plan everything step by step:

• Europe 2-week itinerary
• Europe 1-week itinerary
• Europe 3-week itinerary

Still deciding where to go?

• Best places in Europe to travel to
• Overrated and underrated destinations in Europe

Europe has something for every type of traveller. You just need to pick the experience that suits you best.