Europe attractions

Inspired by Swedish children’s books—most notably Astrid Lindgren’s iconic Pippi Longstocking series—the Junibacken Children’s Museum is a vibrant discovery zone designed to capture the imagination and encourage creative play.

From the 8th to 6th centuries BC, Delphi was a sanctuary, known as the sacred abode of Apollo, the Olympian god of light, music, and knowledge. It was here that the Oracle of Apollo delivered prophecies that impacted the ancient world. Today, the area is a protected archaeological site and its treasures are housed in this museum, including the famous Charioteer of Delphi.

The Jacquemart-André Museum (Musee Jacquemart-Andre) is housed in a lavish 19th-century mansion that once belonged to Edouard André and Nélie Jacquemart, a globetrotting, art-collecting couple. It is just as famous for its Belle Epoque setting as its art collection—expect wallpapered libraries and elegant fireplaces that showcase the glamour of France’s bygone Gilded Age. The artworks also comprise a veritable treasure trove: Italian Renaissance paintings, works from Dutch masters, intricate French furniture, and medieval Islamic ceramics.

At Tsangarides Winery, on the edge of Lemona village, vineyards cover the lower slopes of the Troodos Mountains and surround its neat stone cellar. Bottles and casks of full-bodied reds and dry aromatic whites are stored in the cellar, while outdoor terrace seating is the ideal place to enjoy samples, snacks, and the rustic hillside scenery.

Sgwd yr Eira conjures up mystical images from its name alone, which translates as “waterfall of the snow” in English: luckily, it lives up to its title. This beloved Brecon Beacons waterfall is known for its torrent of water that you can walk behind, and is the grand finale of the Four Waterfalls Walk.

Set in a picturesque location at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, Blair Athol Distillery is a fine place to sample a dram or two of Scotland’s “water of life” while learning about Scotch whisky heritage and craftsmanship. With a history dating back to the late 18th century, it’s one of Scotland’s oldest operating distilleries.

Firopotamos Beach is one of the most picturesque spots on Milos to take a dip, thanks to its perfectly transparent water, traditional white-and-blue houses lining the shore, and steep coastal cliffs bookending its bay. Located within striking distance of the island’s main town of Plaka, this charming cove is ideal for a quick swim or a day at the seaside far from the crowds.

Marco Polo House is a museum on the Croatian island of Korcula that is dedicated to the famous explorer, Marco Polo. While the place of his birth is unknown, this house claims ties to the world traveler. The museum is dedicated to his life and travels, revealing historical details about global trade. Visitors won’t want to miss climbing a flight of narrow stairs to the loggia, which offers views over the rooftops of Korcula’s old town.

Offering some of the best panoramic views of Stockholm, SkyView is a unique attraction at the city’s Avicii Arena. Consisting of two glass gondolas that slowly scale the sides of the dome-shaped structure, and which offer 360-degree views of the cityscape, it’s an accessible way for families and visitors of all stripes to get to know the Swedish capital.

At the foot of Britain’s tallest mountain, Ben Nevis, this Scottish distillery has been producing malt whisky since 1825. Visitors can take a tour of the historic distillery, sample a selection of whiskies, and browse bottles in the shop.

Portuguese equestrian art—a type of choreographed horseback riding performed by local Lusitano horses and period-costumed riders—dates back to the 18th-century court of King John V. The Portuguese School of Equestrian Art (Escola Portuguesa de Arte Equestre) preserves the tradition today with regular shows, and you can watch the rehearsals most mornings at the school’s riding ring in Belém.

Graffiti lovers don’t have to pound the streets of Amsterdam to find some of its best murals; many are on display at STRAAT. The museum gathers more than 180 works by nearly as many street artists under one roof. Showcasing work by both well-known artists and up-and-coming talent, STRAAT draws visitors with its exhibitions, guided tours, and hands-on workshops suitable for street artists at any level.

Perched on a hillside above Vaduz, Vaduz Castle is the city’s most memorable monument and an enduring symbol of Liechtenstein. Standing guard over the capital since the 12th century, it’s now the official residence of Liechtenstein Prince Franz Josef II and one of the first stops for travelers visiting the small country.

Inspired by a geyser, though likened to a gherkin, Mirador Torre Glòries is one of Barcelona’s tallest landmarks at 470 feet (143 meters). Designed by architect Jean Nouvel, it’s also one of the city’s most famous contemporary attractions. In 2022, it opened as an observation deck and art space, and is now one of the best places to soak up views of the Catalan capital.

One of three ancient Egyptian obelisks relocated to major Western cities—the others are in Paris and New York—Cleopatra’s Needle was gifted to the UK in the 19th century. After a perilous sea journey from Egypt, it was installed on London’s Victoria Embankment. (Despite the name, the landmark has no link to Cleopatra.) Visitors enjoy photo opportunities near the obelisk, with visible hieroglyphics as well as bronze sphinxes that guard the monument.

Lassithi Plateau is one of the coolest places you’ve likely never heard of. The birthplace of Zeus, this high, hilly region of Crete has immense importance to Cretan (and Greek) culture. Here, visitors find quaint, modern villages that have been thriving for thousands of years—and archaeological sites that date back to Europe’s first civilization.

Marsala wine, a reinforced sweet wine produced in Sicily’s southwest corner, has been famous since the 18th century, with Florio Winery (Cantine Florio) turning out some of the area’s most prestigious labels for 150 years. Learn more about the history and production of these sweet wines with a tour and tasting at this historic cellar located right on the seafront.

Admire views across the historical center of Riga from the observation deck of the Latvian Academy of Sciences, a Stalinist tower in the city’s Latgale suburb. Heading up to the 17th floor of the Socialist-era building is an experience in itself, but it is the view of Riga’s riverfront and historical landmarks together that make this one of the best viewpoints in Riga.

St. Mary's Church is one of the world's largest brick churches, with a capacity for up to 25,000 people. Inside, you can see stunning vaulting, an enormous astronomical clock, and a rich collection of Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque art. Historically, it served as a sanctuary for the Solidarity movement, adding a layer of significance to its architectural grandeur.

Seitan Limania may translate to “Devil’s Port,” but whoever named this spectacular beach simply wanted it to themselves. With white sand that emerges out of a narrow, S-shaped canyon and slowly dips into bright-blue waters, Seitan Limania is one of Crete’s most beautiful beaches. It does require a bit of a hike, but don’t let that stop you from witnessing this gem.

While Praia dos Arrifes may be Albufeira’s smallest beach, it’s often hailed as one of the region’s most attractive thanks to the dramatic rock formations that soar out of the sea. The sandy stretch is only 246 feet (75 meters) long and is sheltered by shortbread-colored cliffs, which create calm conditions for snorkeling in the Atlantic Ocean.

The crown jewel of Lake Maggiore’s Borromean Islands, Palazzo Borromeo is a masterpiece of Baroque excess covering most of Isola Bella. Visit its lavish halls stuffed with paintings by Rubens and Titian, Flemish tapestries, and sculptures by Antonio Canova—the grand Sala da Ballo (Ballroom) and stuccoed Sala del Trono (Throne Room) are standouts. Afterward, stroll through the lush terraced grounds to admire its Italian-style gardens occupied by a clutch of white peacocks.

In a city known for its contemporary architecture and design, the award-winning Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) stands out. These twin high-rise residential buildings are wrapped in lush greenery from the thousands of trees and plants that grow from the balconies, which mitigate Milan’s carbon dioxide levels and provide a soothing sight for sore city eyes.

A wall-to-wall golden interior awaits inside the Church of Santa Clara in Porto. The sumptuous decor of this 15th-century church features delicate carved woodwork decorated in generous amounts of gold leaf under an equally elaborate and luxurious vaulted ceiling. All of this is hidden behind a deceptively reserved exterior, embodying the life lesson of not judging a book by its cover.

Islington is an area in north London that’s a fun place for strolling and experiencing authentic London life, where you can explore market stalls, browse independent boutiques, or eat at one of its many great pubs and restaurants. With a wide range of eateries, plus plenty of unique shops, Islington makes a welcome change from some of the city’s more typical tourist hot spots, plus you’ll spot pretty Georgian architecture while wandering its streets.

When it comes to Rome’s food markets, Campo de’ Fiori and Trastevere might get all the tourism glory, but Testaccio Market (Mercato di Testaccio) is a neighborhood institution. This daily market is set inside a contemporary glass-ceilinged building—and over a basement of archaeological excavations—in the relatively modest Testaccio neighborhood. It’s a great place to grab coffee, snack on casual eats, rub elbows with local nonnas, and experience what remains of central Rome’s working-class roots.

Comprising two salt lakes, the green-blue La Mata (Laguna Salada de la Mata) and the pink Torrevieja (Laguna Salada de Torrevieja), the Torrevieja Salt Lakes are the largest and oldest salt lakes in Europe. A major center of salt production for centuries, the salt lakes are also a habitat for migratory flamingos and other birds and have become a popular tourist destination.

This imaginative Prague attraction is technically a museum, but it’s far from a sea of dusty paintings and artifacts—instead, it’s a funhouse of optical illusions and visual tricks. With over 150 interactive displays, it’s a great rainy-day activity in the city center for all ages.

Crowning the hilltopcité (citadel) of Carcassonne—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the imposing Château Comtal dates back to the 12th century, although the site’s historic roots stretch back as far as Roman times. A classic medieval castle, with fairy-tale towers and dramatic ramparts, the restored château is now open to the public as a museum.

Water slides, tube slides, and swimming pools fill the six themed zones at Aquópolis Costa Dorada, a water park near the town of Salou on Spain’s Costa Dorada. Park attractions suited to both adults and children provide an opportunity for thrills and fun while cooling off from the summer heat.