Every year, millions of travelers seek out the most breathtaking destinations across Europe, but which is the most beautiful country in Europe?
In 2025, over 1.2 million travelers from 139 countries cast their votes, selecting the Best Country to Visit in Europe. While more than half of the voters were from within Europe, a significant 45% came from around the world, particularly the USA and the UK.
This ranking, conducted in collaboration with European Best Destinations and over 500 tourism offices, highlights the sheer diversity of beautiful places in Europe to visit, from sun-soaked coastlines to snow-capped peaks, vibrant cities, and charming medieval towns.
So, which country claimed the top spot? Croatia was officially crowned as the best country to visit in Europe in 2025, followed closely by Norway, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, and Greece. In this article on Travel-Essentials, we’ll take you through the most beautiful countries Europe has to offer, helping you choose your next unforgettable adventure!
Top 10 Most Beautiful Countries to Visit in Europe (2025)
Based on traveler reviews from over 2 million visitors worldwide, here are the ten must-visit European countries for 2025. Let’s explore what makes each of these destinations so special!
1: Croatia; The Crown Jewel of Europe
Recently crowned the Best Country to Visit in Europe in 2025, Croatia is a dream destination with an incredible mix of stunning beaches, historic towns, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring UNESCO-listed sites, sailing along the Adriatic coast, or indulging in world-class cuisine, Croatia has something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Croatia
For the perfect Croatian getaway, late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices. While summer is the most popular time to visit, expect hot temperatures, large crowds, and higher prices, so book early!
How Many Days Do You Need in Croatia?
With its long, coastal geography, Croatia is best explored over 7 to 10 days. Anything less might feel too rushed to truly experience its gorgeous islands, historic cities, and national parks!
10 Must-Visit Places in Croatia
Plitvice Lakes: A mesmerizing national park with cascading waterfalls
– Dubrovnik: The Pearl of the Adriatic and a Game of Thrones filming location
– Hvar: A glamorous island with lively nightlife and stunning beaches
– Zagreb: Croatia’s vibrant capital with a mix of history and modern charm
– Istria Region: Known for its vineyards, hilltop villages, and Italian influence
– Bol & Zlatni Rat Beach: One of Europe’s most famous beaches
– Krka National Park: Stunning waterfalls and scenic walking trails
– Velebit Mountains: A hiker’s paradise with breathtaking landscapes
– Kopački Rit Park: A wildlife-rich nature reserve
– Lastovo Island: A hidden gem for nature lovers
2: Norway; The Land of Fjords and Northern Lights
Norway is a breathtaking mix of rugged mountains, serene fjords, and charming Scandinavian cities. Whether you’re hiking through untouched wilderness or experiencing its vibrant cultural scene, Norway is a must-visit!
Best Time to Visit Norway
For the best experience, visit during June-August when the Midnight Sun lights up the sky, the weather is mild, and nature is at its peak. Even in peak season, Norway’s vast landscapes ensure it never feels overcrowded.
How Many Days Do You Need in Norway?
To fully experience Norway’s majestic fjords, coastal beauty, and lively cities, plan for at least 8 days.
10 Best Places to Visit in Norway
– Svalbard: The ultimate Arctic adventure
– Tromsø: A top spot for viewing the Northern Lights
– Lofoten: Dramatic landscapes with fishing villages and beaches
– Bergen & Westfjords: A colorful city surrounded by fjords
– Geirangerfjord: One of Norway’s most famous fjords
– Pulpit Rock: A breathtaking hike with panoramic views
– The Atlantic Road: A scenic drive through stunning coastal scenery
– Bear Island: A remote, wildlife-rich paradise
– Træna: A unique island with music festivals and nature experiences
– Nærøyfjord: A UNESCO-listed fjord with unparalleled beauty
Planning to explore the most beautiful countries in Europe? Make sure you have everything you need for a smooth and stress-free trip! Our comprehensive categorized checklist of travel essentials ensures you’re fully prepared. Make sure to check it out here!
3: Spain; A Vibrant Blend of Culture, History, and Beaches
From Gaudí architectural wonders in Barcelona to the stunning coastlines of the Canary Islands, Spain is a country that captivates every traveler. It ranked among the top most beautiful countries Europe has to offer, thanks to its rich history, incredible food, and endless sunshine!
Best Time to Visit Spain
The ideal time to visit Spain is spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October). These months offer comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and plenty of local festivals. Summer can be scorching hot, especially in the south, but it’s also the best time to enjoy Spain’s famous beaches.
How Many Days Do You Need in Spain?
To truly enjoy Spain, you’ll need at least 7 to 10 days. In a week, you can explore Madrid and Barcelona while squeezing in 3 to 5 day trips. But if you want to experience Spain’s diverse regions, a longer trip is ideal.
How many days should you spend in Barcelona? Whether you have just one day, 3 days, or a full week, our detailed Barcelona itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this incredible city. Make sure to use them!
10 Must-See Places in Spain
– Cáceres, Extremadura: A medieval town with stunning architecture
– Palma de Mallorca: A dreamy Balearic Island getaway
– Ses Illetes, Formentera: One of Spain’s most beautiful beaches
– Bilbao: Home to the famous Guggenheim Museum
– Picos de Europa: A breathtaking mountain range
– Hauser & Wirth Menorca: A unique contemporary art space
– Doñana National Park: A heaven for wildlife lovers
– Dalt Vila, Ibiza: A historic town with vibrant nightlife
– Rioja: Spain’s famous wine region
– Golden Triangle of Art, Madrid: A must-visit for art enthusiasts
4: Austria; Where Elegance Meets Alpine Adventure
Austria is a land of grandeur, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, and it’s no surprise that it ranked among the top most beautiful countries in Europe to visit.
Beyond the capital, Austria offers majestic mountains, serene lakes, and charming castles. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an outdoor adventure, you’ll find it all here. Austria is also home to some of the world’s top ski resorts, including Arlberg, Lech, St. Christoph, and Zürs.
Best Time to Visit Austria
Your ideal travel time depends on your itinerary. Spring and fall (April-May & September-October) are perfect for exploring Vienna, Salzburg, and Austria’s historic cities without the summer crowds.
The summer months (June-August) provide the best conditions for hiking in the Alps, with cooler temperatures and lush green landscapes.
Winter (December-March) is a magical time for Christmas markets, skiing, and the Viennese ball season. If you’re planning a ski trip, March offers milder weather and fewer crowds.
How Many Days Do You Need in Austria?
A 10-day trip is ideal for experiencing Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and the Alpine wonders. If you only have a week, base yourself in Vienna or Salzburg and take day trips to nearby castles and lakes.
For a shorter five-day getaway, focusing on one or two regions will help you make the most of your trip!
10 Must-Visit Places in Austria
– Vienna: Stroll through its imperial past
– Salzburg: Birthplace of Mozart, a city of music and charm
– Innsbruck: A postcard-perfect Alpine town
– Salzkammergut: Relax in Austria’s stunning lake district
– Graz: A cultural gem known for its architecture and food scene
– Worthersee: A summer paradise by the lake
– Bad Gastein: Famous for spa retreats and mountain scenery
– Bregenz: A lakeside escape with stunning views
– Wachau Valley: Home to Austria’s best wines and historic sites
– Zell Am See: A breathtaking blend of lakes and Alpine landscapes
A dream trip to a beautiful place in Europe to visit starts with smart packing! Don’t risk forgetting important items. Our comprehensive checklist of travel essentials has you covered. Get everything ready for a smooth and stress-free journey!
5: Switzerland; A Fairytale Landscape Come to Life
With glacier-covered peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages, Switzerland is a dream destination. 60% of the country is covered by the mighty Alps, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting.
Imagine turreted castles, cascading waterfalls, and bright red trains winding up mountains; it’s like stepping into a storybook! Even getting around feels magical, cable cars float over deep valleys, scenic trains take you to unbelievable heights, and everywhere you go, the sound of cowbells echoes through the meadows.
Switzerland’s cities, like Zurich and Lucerne, seamlessly blend history with modern culture, all set against jaw-dropping backdrops of lakes and vineyards.
Best Time to Visit Switzerland
Switzerland is stunning year-round, but the best time depends on what you’re looking for. Spring (March-May) brings Alpine blooms and mild weather.
Summer (June-August) is perfect for hiking, lake adventures, and scenic train rides. Autumn (September-November) is a quieter time, ideal for wine tasting and fall foliage.
Winter (December-March) transforms Switzerland into a snow lover’s paradise, with skiing in the Alps and magical Christmas markets.
How Many Days Do You Need in Switzerland?
A 7 to 10 day itinerary is perfect for experiencing Switzerland’s mountains, lakes, and cities at a comfortable pace. If you have more than 10 days, consider extending your trip to Germany, Austria, or Italy for a multi-country adventure.
10 Best Places to Visit in Switzerland
– Jungfraujoch: The “Top of Europe” with stunning glaciers
– Lucerne: A picturesque lakeside city with a medieval charm
– Lauterbrunnen: Home to 72 waterfalls and breathtaking hikes
– Interlaken: The adventure capital of Switzerland
– The Matterhorn: The iconic Swiss mountain
– Lake Geneva: A stunning blend of nature and culture
– Rhine Falls: Europe’s largest waterfall
– Bern: Switzerland’s historic and charming capital
– Lake Lugano: A slice of the Mediterranean in Switzerland
– Zurich: A vibrant city with stunning lake and mountain views
Before setting off to explore the most beautiful countries in Europe, make sure you’re fully prepared! Our comprehensive checklist of travel essentials ensures a hassle-free trip for you. Don’t miss that!
6: Italy; A Timeless Beauty
Italy is a living masterpiece, where ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and stunning landscapes create an unforgettable travel experience. From the historic streets of Rome to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, Italy is filled with beautiful places in Europe to visit.
Rome is an open-air museum, where you can explore the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the Vatican’s treasures. Florence is the heart of the Renaissance, home to Michelangelo’s David and countless artistic masterpieces.
No trip is complete without Venice, a city built on canals that look straight out of a painting. For history lovers, Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life, while Cinque Terre is a dream destination with colorful cliffside villages overlooking the sea!
Best Time to Visit Italy
Summer (June-August) is the peak season, perfect for coastal adventures and festivals but expect more tourists.
Italy also shines in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower.
How Many Days Do You Need in Italy?
To fully explore Italy, a 10-day trip is ideal. If you have a week, focus on Rome, Florence, and Venice or mix in a countryside escape. Even with just three to five days, you can cover one or two major cities like Rome or Florence.
10 Best Places to Visit in Italy
– Cinque Terre: Colorful villages perched on cliffs.
– Venice: The floating city of romance.
– Emilia-Romagna: A paradise for food lovers.
– Capri: A glamorous Mediterranean island.
– Amalfi Coast: Italy’s most scenic coastal drive.
– Florence: A Renaissance masterpiece.
– Lake Como: A stunning lakeside retreat.
– Tuscany: Rolling hills and world-class wine.
– The Dolomites: A hiker’s paradise.
– Pompeii: A perfectly preserved ancient city
7: Greece; Sun, Sea, and Timeless Wonders
Greece is the ultimate Mediterranean escape, famous for its ancient ruins, sun-kissed beaches, and island-hopping adventures. With over 6000 islands, Greece offers something for everyone, from the iconic sunsets of Santorini to the historic wonders of Athens.
Best Time to Visit Greece
The peak season runs from June to September, offering perfect beach weather and vibrant nightlife. If you prefer fewer crowds, visit in spring or fall (April-May & September-October) when the weather is still warm, but the islands are quieter.
How Many Days Are Enough for Greece?
To truly soak in Greece’s beauty, a minimum of 7 days is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore Athens and one or two stunning Greek islands, Santorini and Mykonos make a perfect pair, or you can dive into the rich history and flavors of Crete.
If you have more time, consider venturing beyond the well-known spots. Explore less-visited islands like Naxos or Paros, or head to the mainland to see the majestic mountains of the Peloponnese and the historic sites of Northern Greece.
Short on time? Base yourself in Athens for a city break packed with ancient landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and day trips to nearby destinations like Delphi or Nafplio. If you can squeeze in an extra night, a quick escape to Naxos is well worth it!
10 Best Places to Visit in Greece
– Athens: The birthplace of democracy, home to the Acropolis and Parthenon
– Aegina: A charming island near Athens, known for ancient ruins and pistachios
– Paros: A beautiful island with sandy beaches and traditional Cycladic villages
– Nafplion: A romantic coastal town with Venetian and Ottoman influences
– Crete: Greece’s largest island, rich in history, nature, and incredible food
– Santorini: Famous for its blue-domed churches and breathtaking sunsets
– Kefalonia: Stunning coves, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic landscapes
– Kastellorizo: A hidden gem with colorful harbor houses and a serene atmosphere
– Zakynthos: Home to the iconic Shipwreck Beach and stunning sea caves
– Tinos: A lesser-known island with incredible religious sites and untouched beaches
8. France; A Timeless Beauty
France is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries to visit in Europe, boasting everything from romantic cities and world-class wine regions to breathtaking countryside and stunning coastlines.
Paris, the “City of Love,” is a must-visit, but France has so much more to offer. From the charming châteaux of the Loire Valley to the snow-capped French Alps, every corner of this country is packed with beauty. And let’s not forget the incredible French cuisine; in 2010, UNESCO even recognized French gastronomy as an intangible cultural heritage.
For art lovers, France was the birthplace of Impressionism, with legendary artists like Monet, Renoir, and Cézanne leaving their mark. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities or picturesque countryside, France never fails to impress.
Best Time to Visit France
The best times to visit France are spring (April-May), summer (June-August), and autumn (September-October).
Spring brings mild weather, perfect for exploring cities and wine regions without the summer crowds. Summer can be warm, but it’s great for coastal getaways and outdoor adventures. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and stunning fall colors, making it ideal for countryside escapes.
Winter in France can be magical too, especially in Paris, where the holiday lights and festive atmosphere make for a cozy getaway.
How Many Days Do You Need in France?
For a well-rounded experience, 10 days is ideal, allowing you to explore Paris, the wine regions, and the south.
If you’re short on time, consider skipping Paris and diving into France’s regional beauty instead. With two to three weeks, you can fully immerse yourself in France’s diverse landscapes, from the beaches of the south to the vineyards and the Alps.
10 Best Places to Visit in France
– Paris: The iconic capital, home to the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and charming streets.
– French Alps: A paradise for skiers, hikers, and nature lovers.
– Nice: The jewel of the French Riviera, known for its beaches and old town.
– Annecy: A picturesque lakeside town surrounded by mountains.
– Montpellier: A vibrant city with a rich history and Mediterranean charm.
– Strasbourg: A fairytale-like city blending French and German influences.
– Aix-en-Provence: A cultural gem, famous for lavender fields and historic streets.
– Colmar: A beautifully preserved medieval town in Alsace.
– Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: The gateway to Mont Blanc, offering breathtaking alpine scenery.
– Burgundy: A dream for wine lovers, offering exquisite vineyards and charming villages.
Before you explore the most beautiful countries in Europe, let’s talk travel essentials! Packing smartly can make all the difference, and our comprehensive categorized checklist of travel essentials will help you travel like a pro. Make sure to use it!
9: Turkey; A Mesmerizing Blend of East and West
Turkey is where East meets West, blending ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities.
Istanbul, with its historic palaces, mosques, and bustling bazaars, is a must-visit, but Turkey offers so much more!
From the beaches of Bodrum and Oludeniz to the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia, there’s something for every traveler. History lovers will be fascinated by Gaziantep, a city with over 6000 years of culture, cuisine, and traditions!
Turkey Best Time to Visit
While summer is popular, the best time to visit Turkey is spring (March-May) when temperatures range from 10 to 25°C, perfect for exploring Turkey’s stunning cities and historical sites.
How Many Days Are Enough for Turkey?
If you have just a week, pick one main destination like Istanbul, Antalya, or Bodrum to explore in depth. For a 10-day trip, you can enjoy Istanbul and take a day trip to Troy or Canakkale.
If you have two weeks or more, you can venture further: explore Cappadocia for hot air balloon rides over unique rock formations, hike the Lycian Way to discover archaeological marvels, or visit Mount Ararat National Park, believed to be the resting place of Noah’s Ark.
10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey
– Basilica Cistern
– Topkapi Palace
– Blue Mosque
– Sultanahmet District
– Suleymaniye Mosque
– Cagaloglu Hamami
– Hürrem Sultan Hamami
– Ates Horse Ranch
– Kidzania Istanbul
-Suleymaniye Cultural Center
Frequently Asked Questions About the Most Beautiful Countries in Europe
Now that you’ve explored the top European destinations, their best times to visit, how long to stay, and the must-see attractions, let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling in Europe. You might just find the answer to your own travel queries here!
What is the best country in Europe to live in?
When it comes to quality of life, Finland and Switzerland consistently rank at the top. According to recent studies, people in these countries report high levels of life satisfaction, thanks to excellent healthcare, education, safety, and work-life balance. With an overall happiness score above 7, it’s clear that many Europeans enjoy a good quality of life.
What is the most beautiful place in the world?
While beauty is subjective, the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia, often tops the list. Stretching over 2000 kilometers, this natural wonder is the largest coral reef system in the world, home to breathtaking marine life and vibrant coral formations.
Which European city has the friendliest people?
According to the Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards 2024, Stockholm takes the crown as Europe’s friendliest city. With its warm hospitality, welcoming locals, and laid-back atmosphere, the Swedish capital is a great place to visit and meet new people.
Which is the cheapest European country to live in?
Serbia is one of the most budget-friendly places to live in Europe. Cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad offer a vibrant culture, excellent food, and a low cost of living. Monthly expenses typically range between $600 and $1000, making it an attractive option for expats and digital nomads looking for an affordable yet exciting European lifestyle.
What is the nicest European country?
Norway often ranks as one of the best European countries to live in, thanks to its high standard of living, stunning natural scenery, and excellent public services. With a strong economy, top-tier education, and a well-developed healthcare system, Norway is a country that offers both beauty and quality of life.
