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Europe Vacation: Dream Destinations for Adventurers, Nature Freaks, and Sun Worshipers
Beautiful beaches and blue seas, fascinating cities, romantic landscapes, dizzyingly high mountains, glaciers, and valleys await you on an area of nearly four million square miles.
Experience the typical Mediterranean lifestyle in southern Europe, the cool north with its incomparable nature, the mysterious east, and the diverse places in central Europe. Here you will find the coolest destinations, the most beautiful places, and all the tips for an all-around successful vacation in Europe. Check out the best deals on flights and hotels.
Check out these other destination pages for inspiration for your next trip.
General Information & Tips for Vacations in Europe
More than 740 million people live on the European continent – which is strictly speaking a subcontinent because it has no clear border with neighboring Asia. Together they form the continent of Eurasia. However, Europe does not only stand for the continent, but also for lifestyle and cultural achievements. And these are extremely different within the various countries and regions – just like the landscapes and cities.
A vacation in Europe is varied and exciting and can be just as relaxing as it is restorative. From the north, with its long, cold winters and short, mostly hot summers, to the south, where bathing temperatures sometimes last well into November, Europe is a travel destination for everyone: adventurers, bathers, city fans, and culture lovers.
Where to Go on a Vacation in Europe?
Hotspots or insider tips: In Europe, you will discover vacation destinations for every travel taste and every budget. Are you planning a beach vacation and just want to relax for a week or two? Are you adventurous and would you like to explore a region on your own that is still largely undeveloped for tourism? From backpacking trips to luxury city trips, everything you could wish for awaits you in Europe. We introduce you to some of the best European travel destinations.
Beach Vacation in Europe
From a vacation in Mallorca to a short trip to the North Sea: In Europe, you will find plenty of beach destinations, some of which you can also visit in the fall and winter. The Canary Islands, for example, have spring all year round: even in December, you can expect temperatures of around 60 degrees. Mallorca is an easily accessible destination for your spring and summer vacations in Europe and the Baltic Sea attracts with warm weather in midsummer.
Beach Vacation in the Atlantic: Fuerteventura
The Canary Island has made a name for itself, especially among surfers, because the south coast, in particular, has ideal conditions for surfing: light to strong wind, high temperatures, and perfect waves make the island a popular destination for a surfing vacation.
If you prefer to lounge comfortably in the sun on your Spain vacation, you should spend your trip on the north coast of Fuerteventura: It is more sheltered and has a number of wonderful beaches to offer. Corralejo Beach in the far north is considered one of the most beautiful: Snow-white sand, turquoise-blue sea and views of the volcanic landscapes in the area make Corralejo Beach an absolute insider tip - which is not overcrowded even in midsummer.
More than Ballermann: Mallorca
One of the most popular vacation islands in Europe, is not only known for its party mile. Great beaches, hidden villages in the mountains, a unique nature: This is also Mallorca. If you are looking for relaxation away from the tourist crowds, you can take a look at the beach of Cala Murta: It is hidden on the edge of a pine forest on the Formentor peninsula in northern Mallorca. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs and is rarely visited. This also makes Mallorca a popular travel destination for romantic vacations.
If you want a little more action, you will definitely like Port de Pollenca: Hotels and restaurants are lined up along the beach promenade. However, if you walk a few feet to the north, you will find a beautiful bay with cozy cafés and colorful vacation homes.
Vacation with a Caravan in Europe
With kids or romantically as a couple: If you are a motorhome and camping fanatic, you will find great routes all over Europe.
Fascinating North: Norway
A camping vacation with a mobile home or caravan brings you very close to the beauties of the country during your vacation in Norway. Breathtaking fjords and glaciers, rivers, and mountain lakes, rugged rocky landscapes by the sea, colorful wooden houses, and historic Hanseatic cities: This is what Fjord Norway offers you, for example. The region stretches from Stavanger in the southwest along the North Sea coast to Trondheim. The famous rock platform Preikestolen is one of the most sensational viewing platforms in the world and at the Geirangerfjord you drive the Trollstigen: a serpentine road that meanders past breathtakingly high mountain slopes and waterfalls.
Our pirate tip: Everyman's right applies in Norway. You can camp anywhere except on private property as long as you treat nature with respect.
From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean: France
Beach vacations on the Côte d'Azur, culture in the cities inland - you can experience all this and much more on a caravan trip in France. If you want to spend a relaxing beach vacation and take a touch of a sophisticated lifestyle with you, the Côte d'Azur is an ideal destination: Drive along the azure blue coast, enjoy the view of the sea and the mountains in the hinterland, discover picturesque villages, vineyards, and olive groves.
On the Côte d'Azur, you will pass numerous campsites in exposed locations: right by the sea, in the middle of mountain landscapes, or near the cities of Cannes or Nice - for that extra portion of exclusivity on vacation in France.
Mountains, Lakes, and Cities: with the Mobile Home to Austria
The Alps, mountain lakes, Viennese charm: Vacations in Austria are perfect for mountain hikers, nature lovers, and city vacationers.
In Tyrol in western Austria you can camp all year round, every season has its charms here: skiing and tobogganing in winter, hiking, and mountain biking in summer. Climb the Großglockner or the Königsspitze, discover the capital Innsbruck or hike through the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Vacations in Europe for every budget: From the small, hidden campsite to the luxury resort, you can benefit from numerous accommodation options throughout Tyrol.
Vacation in Europe with Children
Fun and action for the little ones, relaxation and tranquility for the grown-ups: This is what an ideal vacation with children looks like. In Europe you will find countless places where this is possible, for example:
Greece: Water Fun on Kos
The island of Kos is perfect for a vacation in Greece with children - a flight time that is easy to manage even for small children. Kos is known for the many gently sloping beaches - ideal for your little ones.
In the northwest, for example, is the town of Mastichari, which offers a great beach for children: Crystal-clear water, enough sunshades and loungers, and numerous sports facilities await you there. On Kos you will also find many water parks, swimming pools, go-kart tracks, and playgrounds.
Good Prices for Rest: Bulgaria
If you only have a small budget for your family vacation, a vacation in Bulgaria is a great idea: on Sunny Beach in Bulgaria your children will have fun in the Kids Club and you can relax by the sea.
At the southern end of Sunny Beach is the town of Burga, which has just the right mix of rest and fun for families - for example in the Sea Garden with its numerous playgrounds and carousels.
Child-Friendly Italy
Italy has repeatedly confirmed its reputation as one of the most child-friendly countries in Europe. In Tuscany, for example, you will find ideal beaches for a relaxing family vacation.
Pineta del Tombolo is considered one of the most beautiful in the region - which is known for its particularly clean coasts. The flat beach is ideal for playing in the water and the nearby old town of Castaglione with its medieval castle is also exciting for children.
Train Travel through Europe
Lean back comfortably and let the blooming landscapes pass you by: Europe can be explored excellently on a train journey. We introduce you to the most exciting routes.
With the Glacier Express through Switzerland
Unspoiled mountain landscapes, endless gorges, hidden mountain villages, sophisticated spa towns with history: on the Glacier Express you will discover Switzerland from a whole new perspective on your vacation in Europe. The panorama train offers the best photo conditions. For example, you drive from Chur to Zermatt, crossing dizzyingly high bridges and looking at a breathtaking Alpine panorama.
Train Vacations on Your Doorstep: By Train through Germany
How about a vacation in Germany? There is hardly a place in Germany that cannot be reached by train - perfect conditions for a train journey across Germany. Whether it's a short trip or a trip lasting several weeks from north to south, a train journey through Germany takes you from the North Sea to the Alps. Experience cities like Hamburg, Berlin, or Munich, and take the train to the mountains, for example to Berchtesgaden or Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Our pirate tip: With a bit of luck and early booking, you can get from A to B or all over the country very cheaply with the saver fares on the train.
Good and Cheap: Poland
Vacations in Poland can also be wonderfully combined with a train journey. Poland has a very well-developed railway network. The Berlin-Warszawa-Express takes you to the Polish capital via Poznan. From there you can travel south to Kraków or north to the Hanseatic city of Gdansk on the Baltic Sea coast. Vacations in Europe can be so beautiful and cheap!
Bus Trips through Europe
You can also get to many places in Europe easily and cheaply by bus and you can even plan various trips. Some buses also travel to your next destination overnight, saving you effective vacation time and hotel costs. You can also get to know interesting people during the trips and share your experiences of the trip. Just look at the offers of various bus companies and design your individual journey through Europe.
Cheap Vacations in Europe
Vacations in Europe do not have to be expensive - on the contrary, you will find numerous countries where you can spend a great vacation on a small budget. We present you some examples.
Romania
Romania is probably not in everyone's top 5 list of vacation destinations in Europe. However, you are doing the country on the Black Sea an injustice. From the pulsating metropolis of Bucharest to beautiful landscapes with countless palaces and castles, to fantastic beaches. Romania offers much more than meets the eye!
And what's more, a vacation in Romania is definitely cheaper than in other countries in Europe. So explore the Black Sea country and enjoy the scenery that Dracula also appreciated!
Poland
The beaches of the Baltic Sea stand for clean water, great leisure opportunities, and fashionable historical spa towns. Inland you can visit lakes, medieval castles, and some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, such as Kraków. Poland shows itself in an excellent price-performance ratio.
Croatia
Admittedly, prices have also increased in Croatia in recent years. Nevertheless, the country in south-eastern Europe is still very cheap in comparison. From the Adriatic coast via Dubrovnik to the Plitvice Lakes inland , Croatia has numerous cheap accommodations and package deals for your vacation to offer.
Hungary
Vacations in Hungary: Budapest, Lake Balaton, palaces, and castles - Hungary awaits you with numerous cultural highlights and is also a popular destination for a beach vacation. The prices remain low: Hotels and vacation homes are very cheap in comparison.
So if you are looking for both culture and beach on your European vacation, Hungary is the place for you!
Vacations in Europe without Mass Tourism: Insider Tips
Vacations without mass tourism - that still exists in Europe. Here are some examples.
Madeira
The island in the Atlantic not only boasts its beaches. Active vacationers also get their money's worth with Mountain landscapes, green valleys, raging rivers, and waterfalls that promise lots of action during your vacation in Portugal.
Around 600 miles separate the Portuguese motherland from the island, which lies in the Gulf Stream. A warm current ensures a mild climate all year round and diverse vegetation.
Azores
Also in the middle of the Atlantic are the Azores. The nine islands form the westernmost point of Europe and are hardly known on the tourist map - surprisingly, because they are characterized by fascinating green landscapes, diverse vegetation, beaches, volcanic landscapes, and exciting cities - just like the capital Ponta Delgada with its black and white architecture.
Belgium
For most tourists, a vacation in Belgium is synonymous with a vacation home or apartment on the North Sea coast, but there is a whole lot more to discover.
Due to the small distances, you can easily combine a beach vacation on the North Sea coast with day trips to the cities. So you have the best of both worlds.
Luxemburg
Castles, palaces, and picturesque hiking trails past wine villages. Luxembourg offers a beautiful variety of nature and sights. The small country in Europe is perfect for a short vacation, where you can explore the beautiful sides of the country in a few days. Here you can find more information about vacations in Luxembourg.
Lithuania
Admittedly, anyone planning a vacation to the European countryside does not have this goal directly in mind. Italy, France, or England seem more obvious. A vacation in Lithuania, the mysterious country in the Baltic States, has a lot to offer.
With its beautiful landscape and great sights, Lithuania has its own charm.
Myths and Legends in Wales
Wales is the land of myth and legend: King Arthur, the Druids, and Merlin are all linked to this beautiful land. There are more castles per m² here than in any other country in Europe... and that although Wales is only as big as Hesse! During a vacation in Wales, you can not only enjoy imposing castles and palaces, but also golden beaches and sand dunes or dreamlike landscapes with free-roaming ponies and sheep.
The Faroe Islands - The Wild Territory of the Danes
Although they belong to Danish territory, their landscape is more reminiscent of wild Icelandic nature - the Faroe Islands.
Between the British Isles, Norway and Iceland are around 18 islands, all but one of which are inhabited.
Experience the Treasures of Different Cultures in Georgia
Georgia is now one of the top travel destinations in the world and rightly so: Not only the best cheese bread in the world, called Megruli Khachapuri, lures us to Georgia, no, in addition to the varied history due to influences from the Ottomans, Mongols, Persians, and Russians the country also forms the bridge between Europe and Asia.
Mediterranean lightness dominates Georgian cuisine and nature, rich in mountains, semi-desert, and sea, attracting visitors to Georgia. Convince yourself and choose this destination for your vacation in Europe.
Vacation between Titanic and Giants
Not only Leonardo DiCaprio fans should go to Northern Ireland, the country where the Titanic left and was built. In addition to interesting cities like vibrant, creative Belfast and beautiful landscapes, some of which were built by giants, there is also damn good whiskey paired with gripping live music in the typical Northern Irish pub. A vacation in Northern Ireland should therefore be on everyone's must-see list!
Vacation in Slovakia
Vacation in the green heart of Europe! With only 5.5 million inhabitants, Slovakia is not very big, but it is rich in culture and beautiful landscapes.
If you don't spend an unforgettable time here, it's really your own fault!
Vacation in Slovenia
Slovenia lies between the sunny part of the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea and thus offers everything a traveler's heart desires, from bathing to hiking to skiing vacation. During a vacation in Slovenia you will find more than 200 museums, beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and lakes, mystical cave landscapes, idyllic beaches on the almost 31 miles long Adriatic coast, wild horses on lush meadows, mighty castles and palaces and picturesque baroque towns like the Capital Ljubljana.
Nevertheless, you are far away from mass tourism here and can discover this beautiful, small country, which lies between Austria, Italy, Hungary and Croatia, in peace and quiet during your European vacation.
Vacation in Estonia
Are you interested in vacations in Northern Europe? Then Estonia is a real insider tip. Estonia is the northernmost country in the Baltic States and is located on the Gulf of Finland. With just 1.4 million inhabitants, the mostly flat Estonia is extremely sparsely populated and appears spacious and idyllic.
Vacations in Estonia promise paradisiacal nature experiences: The islands in the west of the country are spectacular, near Kõrvemaa it gets hilly and the moorland dominates.
Vacation in Albania
Albania, the land of eagles, is full of undiscovered natural treasures. Lonely Planet already chose Albania as the absolute dream destination and not without reason! Apart from the very different natural areas and wild landscapes, a vacation in Albania also has something in store for sun worshipers.
Lying between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas and with a Mediterranean climate, Albania inspires with beautiful dream beaches that are relatively undeveloped for tourism.
Vacations in Bosnia and Herzegovina
A vacation in Bosnia-Herzegovina is not only worthwhile because of the pirate-like, low prices. In addition to fantastic nature, you will meet incredibly hospitable people, delicious food, and a mix of different cultures that is unique in Europe. From personal experience we can say that Bosnia-Herzegovina is far underestimated when it comes to vacations and is one of the last real insider tips.
So treat yourself to a tour of this diverse country!
Vacation in Serbia
A vacation in Serbia delights with undiscovered Balkan treasures and natural wonders, a multicultural population and the vibrant party capital of Belgrade.
Vacation in Finland
Vacation in Finland is like a journey into a magical fairytale world. Immerse yourself in the land of the midnight sun and get to know special features such as reindeer, sled dogs, or the Finnish sauna! Finland is an extremely diverse country.
With the following selection of travel destinations, there is something to suit every taste. It is not for nothing that Finland is an extremely popular vacation destination in Europe. From beach vacations to winter vacations, everyone will find something they like here.
Vacation in Montenegro
The still relatively unknown and touristically undiscovered Montenegro may be the smallest republic of the former Yugoslavia, but it still has a lot to offer and is one of the most diverse countries in Europe. In addition to black mountains and deep gorges, you will also find fantastic beaches and dense forests here.
But the best part is yet to come: You don't have to share nature and beaches with crowds of tourists like in neighboring countries, as Montenegro is still an undiscovered gem. Nevertheless, a vacation in Montenegro is in no way inferior to trendy vacation destinations such as neighboring Croatia. So why not just spend your European vacation in beautiful Montenegro?
Discover Here the Travel Guides & Offers That We Have in Store for You
Example Route Europe Trip: Europe's Metropolises in 14 Days
Dear Traveling Pirates, you want to see as many cities as possible in 2 weeks and save a lot of money at the same time? Then take a close look at the following deal. You get a 14-day Europe trip through 4 European cities for less than 600 euros ($600) including flights, hotels or train tickets.
This is just an example, which you can of course recreate for many other dates, it is based on a trip with 2 people.
1st Leg: Berlin - Amsterdam
Your Europe trip starts in Berlin. From there you can fly with Easyjet to Amsterdam for just under 40 euros ($40) including luggage or you can travel with Deutsche Bahn for from 39 euros ($39). 4 days for a city trip to Amsterdam are enough to get to know the city with all its canals and quarters. I recommend exploring Amsterdam by bike.
2nd Leg: Amsterdam - Paris
The Europe trip continues to Paris. We recommend you to travel by train. In less than 3.5 hours you can reach Paris Nord train station with the Thalys for only about 25€ ($25). It is best to stay 3 nights in the city of love, so you have enough time to see the most important sights of Paris.
If you prefer to explore Paris by bike, I recommend Vélib bikes. You can buy a one-day ticket online for €1.70 (~$1.70) and travel for free for the first half hour of the day.
Please note that cheap Thalys tickets from Amsterdam to Paris can only be booked 90 days in advance.
3rd Leg: Paris - Barcelona
From Paris we fly to Barcelona. With Air France you start including luggage for just under 60 euros ($60), please note that you have to book the luggage. With Vueling you can also fly relatively cheaply, you do not have to book your luggage separately with this airline, it is already included in the price. Especially in the low season you can get hotels near the beach for little money. With the nearby metro you can also reach all the sights, the lively district of Sant Marti and the hippest pubs and bars. Information about your Barcelona city trip can be found with us.
4th Leg: Barcelona - Lisbon
After four eventful days, you say goodbye to Barcelona and set off on your journey to Lisbon. With TAP Portugal you can fly to the capital of Portugal for as little as 40 euros ($40) including luggage.
Here you will spend 6 wonderful days in one of the trendiest cities in Europe. It is also only a few minutes' walk to the popular nightlife district of Bairro Alto. In Lisbon, we would recommend a rental car from billiger-mietwagen.de, a day trip to Porto or Faro (each about 2.5 hours away) is worthwhile. Lisbon can be explored very well on foot due to the short distances. You can easily reach the sea and countless beaches with the local train, a journey costs between €1 and €3.60 (~$1 to $3.60).