Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2025

Discover the best places to visit in Europe with expert tips on where to go and what to do. From Paris to Prague, create your perfect European adventure.

Planning a European trip can feel overwhelming. You open up a map and suddenly you’re staring at dozens of countries, each promising you the trip of a lifetime. So, where do you even start when looking for the best places to travel in Europe?

Let’s be real: there’s no single “perfect” European itinerary because it depends entirely on your interests, budget, and travel style. Love history? You’ll eat up Rome. Want to party? Barcelona’s got you covered. Looking for something Instagram-worthy on a budget? Eastern Europe is calling your name.

After helping countless travelers plan their European adventures, we’re breaking down the best places to travel in Europe based on what actually matters: your time, budget, and travel goals.

Classic European Destinations for First-Timers

Let’s start with the obvious choices. Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, London – here’s why they keep showing up on every “best of” list.

Paris

Paris syndrome is real, but the city offers more than just the Eiffel Tower. Everything’s walkable, the culinary scene is world-class, and simply wandering through neighborhoods like the Marais feels like you can find something special around every corner. Skip the tourist traps and explore underrated areas, like Belleville, for authentic Parisian eats.

Rome

There’s a reason why the capital of Italy makes you feel connected to history in ways few cities can match. While the Colosseum draws crowds, the real magic happens while you’re wandering through Trastevere at night or discovering hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving pasta that will ruin you for Italian food anywhere else.

Barcelona

Ready for a siesta? Barcelona perfectly balances beach relaxation with urban exploration. Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces are genuinely mind-bending (and mostly free to visit!), and the tapas culture means you can eat your way through the city affordably while experiencing local life.

Amsterdam

If most capitals like New York are the cities that never sleep, Amsterdam offers a refreshingly laid-back European experience. Rent a bike to get around like a local, cruise the famous canals, explore world-renowned museums like the Van Gogh, and have a biertje by one of Amsterdam’s many terrace cafes.

London

The UK capital might be pricey for some, but it delivers unmatched energy, a great food scene, and cultural depth. Free museums, authentic pub culture, and easy day trips throughout the UK make it worth the investment.

Eastern Europe: Premium Experiences at Budget-Friendly Prices

Eastern Europe houses some of the best places to travel in Europe, especially for travelers wanting maximum experience without premium Western European prices.

Prague

Located in the heart of Europe, Prague resembles a fairy tale setting without Disney-level costs. Quality meals run around $10, beer costs less than bottled water, and the Gothic architecture rivals any Western European capital. Want something truly photogenic for your Instagram feed? Charles Bridge at sunrise offers a magical experience worth the early alarm.

Krakow

The capital of Poland consistently surprises visitors with its stunning old town, hearty and affordable cuisine, and relaxed atmosphere that larger cities sometimes lose. For history enthusiasts, it provides deeply moving and educational experiences.

Budapest

Known for its thermal baths, the capital of Hungary offers excellent nightlife and spectacular Danube River views. The unique ruin bars, particularly Szimpla Kert, offer one-of-a-kind nightlife experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Tallinn

Ready to step into a city straight out of Medieval Europe? Estonia’s tech-forward approach means excellent signals throughout a compact, walkable old town that can be thoroughly explored in a day or two. Eastern European cuisine also deserves more recognition than it receives. When prepared well, traditional dishes offer comforting, satisfying meals that showcase regional flavors and cooking techniques.

Mediterranean Destinations: Sun, Sea, and Relaxation

For travelers seeking the best places to travel in Europe for relaxation and coastal beauty, Mediterranean destinations offer diverse options.

Santorini

The island lives up to its Instagram-worthy reputation but comes with higher prices and summer crowds. Stay in Oia for sunset views, but dine in Fira where locals eat. Pro tip: Those famous blue-domed churches appear throughout the island, not just in Instagram hotspots.

Amalfi Coast

One of the highlights of southern Italy, Amalfi is undeniably beautiful, but getting there might be a challenge for some. The views are very much worth it, but winding mountain roads and touristy pricing make it less practical than other Italian coastal options. If you want something similar with less hassle, Cinque Terre offers easier navigation with equally stunning scenery.

Portugal

After years of Spain being the go-to destination for many summering Europeans, Portugal is experiencing well-deserved popularity. Lisbon combines excellent food, beautiful azulejo tiles, and affordability compared to most Western European capitals. For a more low-key experience, Porto is a great metropolitan alternative. If you’re intent on something more outdoorsy, the northern coast offers underrated beaches.

Croatia

Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia used to be Europe’s best-kept secret before Game of Thrones changed everything. Dubrovnik remains beautiful but is now extremely crowded, so keep that in mind. For a more relaxing experience, Split or smaller islands provide the same crystal-clear waters without overwhelming tourist masses.

Northern Europe: Unique Experiences Worth the Extra Planning

Northern European countries offer some of the most distinctive experiences among the best places to travel in Europe, though they require additional preparation and budget consideration.

Norway

Getting tired of Oslo? Head up to the fjords to take in some breathtaking scenery. With higher costs during peak seasons, book accommodations well in advance and budget smartly to manage expenses.

Iceland

If you’re keen on somewhere more remote, Iceland offers otherworldly experiences. The Blue Lagoon is touristy but genuinely worthwhile, and the ring road showcases landscapes that seem almost alien. Reykjavik also offers great eats and many tourist attractions that showcase the island’s extensive Viking history.

Scotland

Head further up north for castles, quality whisky, and some of the UK’s friendliest locals. Edinburgh during festival season creates exciting chaos, while the Scottish Highlands offer perfect digital detox opportunities in stunning natural settings.

European Cities Perfect for Extended Stays

Sometimes, focusing deeply on one destination beats rapid country-hopping. These cities reward longer visits with richer cultural immersion.

Vienna

Vienna maintains elegant sophistication without any of the stuffiness you’d expect. Authentic coffee culture, world-class museums, and a relaxed pace create an appealing alternative to busier European capitals.

Berlin

The capital of Germany offers gritty artistic energy and constant surprises. The city’s heavy but important history, legendary nightlife, and remarkable unity despite its divided past make it endlessly fascinating.

Copenhagen

The Danish capital exemplifies a successful work-life balance culture. Though expensive, the city showcases exceptional design, innovative cuisine, and a genuine hygge lifestyle that extends beyond marketing concepts.

Essential European Travel Questions Answered

When’s the best time to visit?

July and August provide peak season experiences, but expect crowds and higher costs. If you’d like to skip peak season, May and September offer ideal conditions – you’d get pleasant weather with fewer crowds and reasonable prices.

What should you budget?

For a mid-range budget, consider these ranges:

Eastern Europe: $50-80/day

Western Europe: $100-150/day

Scandinavia: $150-200+/day

These estimates cover accommodation, meals, and activities.

Do you need a visa for Europe?

If you’re an EU resident, you’re good to go for visa-free travel within the EU. Plus, folks from 30 countries, like the US, Singapore, and Japan, can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Starting in late 2026, you’ll need an ETIAS authorization, similar to how Europeans will have to apply for an ESTA to enter the United States. If you’re not eligible for visa-free travel, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa through your local embassy or consulate.

What’s the best way to travel around Europe?

Trains work best for medium distances, budget airlines for longer routes, and rental cars for maximum flexibility. Eurail or Interrail passes can provide savings for multi-country itineraries.

Do I need an eSIM for Europe?

If you’re traveling from outside Europe, getting a travel eSIM is definitely worth your peace of mind. Not only can you stay connected between borders, but you can also get extra perks with Jetpac eSIM. With top-tier network partners, free WhatsApp chat and Google Maps, and more exciting features, you’re bound to find your way around like a local.

Stay Connected Throughout Your European Adventure

Whether you’re navigating Prague’s winding medieval streets, coordinating group activities in Barcelona, or staying connected with home, Jetpac eSIM’s reliable data enhances every aspect of your European journey.

The convenience factor is key – set everything up before departure. This means no more airport queues, language barriers at local phone stores, or travel day stress. Enjoy dual network access in most destinations, ensuring seamless connectivity even if your main provider encounters issues.

As a bonus, enjoy complimentary lounge access for flight delays exceeding one hour with every Jetpac eSIM. If you run out of data, you'll get free WhatsApp chat and Google Maps for select data packs! Explore Europe with seamless connectivity. Get your Jetpac eSIM for Europe today and travel with complete confidence.