12 Must-Do Trips in Europe for Your Ultimate Bucket List
Europe is a dream destination for any traveler. Just imagine exploring medieval castles, sailing along a sun-soaked coastline, or watching the Northern Lights paint the sky. This list brings together the most unforgettable experiences across the continent, places that deserve a top spot on your bucket list.
Cruise Amsterdam’s Canals
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You won’t find anything as dreamy floating through Amsterdam’s canals, passing centuries-old buildings and houseboats decorated with flowers. The city’s waterways stretch for over 60 miles and have earned it the nickname ‘Venice of the North.’ A canal tour gives you front-row views of the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, and countless charming bridges.
Marvel at Paris’ Eiffel Tower
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Visiting Paris without at least catching a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower is impossible, but seeing it up close, or better yet, from the top, is an entirely different experience. You can climb the stairs or take the elevator for a more leisurely ride.
Tour the British Museum in London
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Some of the world’s most famous artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, are housed in the British Museum. With over eight million pieces in its collection, it’s impossible to see everything in one visit, so pick your must-sees in advance. And the best part is it’s completely free to visit!
Hike the Swiss Alps
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Switzerland’s mountains offer some of the most unforgettable hikes in Europe. The Jungfrau region, Zermatt, and the Engadin Valley have stunning routes with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. If hiking isn’t your thing, take a scenic train ride like the Glacier Express for a different adventure.
Visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
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Blue Lagoon is surrounded by volcanic rock, and its milky-blue water stays a toasty 98–102°F year-round. The mineral-rich water is said to have skin-healing properties, and the in-water silica is a plus. Bonus points if you visit in the evening when the Northern Lights might appear.
Soak in Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools, Turkey
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It’s hard to believe Pamukkale is real. It resembles a snow-covered mountainside, but the terraces are formed from calcium-rich mineral waters. The pools have been used as a spa since ancient times, and you can still wade through the warm, turquoise waters today.
Relax in Budapest’s Thermal Bath
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Hungary’s capital sits on a network of thermal springs, which makes it one of the best places in the world for a spa day. Széchenyi Baths is the most famous, but Gellért and Rudas Baths are equally worth a visit. The mineral-rich waters, some reaching temperatures of 104°F, are said to have healing properties.
Experience Vienna’s Coffeehouse Culture
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Vienna’s traditional coffeehouses have been gathering places for intellectuals, artists, and writers for centuries. Places like Café Central and Café Sacher are the best, and you can linger for hours with just a single coffee, with no rush. Try a slice of Sachertorte, Vienna’s famous chocolate cake, while watching the world go by.
Visit the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam
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A visit to the Anne Frank House is one of the most moving experiences. The preserved secret annex, where Anne and her family hid for two years during World War II, gives a powerful historical insight. The museum also provides a deeper context about the Holocaust and the impact of war. It’s an emotional stop but an important one.
Explore the Old Town of Prague
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Prague’s Old Town contains the Astronomical Clock, which has been ticking since 1410, along with the iconic Charles Bridge. Grab a trdelník, a sweet, cinnamon-sugar pastry, and explore at your own pace. The best time to visit is early morning or late evening when the crowds thin out and the city’s magic shines.
Tour the Louvre Museum in Paris
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The Louvre isn’t just about the Mona Lisa—though, yes, she’s here too, but this museum is the largest in the world, home to over 35,000 works of art, including the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
Cruise Norway’s Fjords
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Norway’s fjords are nature at its most dramatic. Towering cliffs, deep blue waters, and cascading waterfalls are on top of the list. Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO-listed, are among the most famous, but you really can’t go wrong with any of them. You might spot seals, porpoises, or even the elusive sea eagle along the way.
Relax at Lake Garda, Italy
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Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, is the perfect escape from the chaos of everyday life. You can take a boat ride to soak in the dramatic mountain views, sip a chilled Aperol Spritz by the shore, or unwind in one of the region’s thermal spas. If good food is the priority, fresh-caught fish and handmade pasta are always on the menu.
Experience Parisian Café Culture
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Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, pull up a chair at Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, order a café crème, eat a croissant, and watch the city go by. Locals linger over conversations, writers scribble away, and stylish Parisians make people-watching an art form.
Visit Santorini, Greece
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Whitewashed houses with blue-domed roofs sit high above the Aegean Sea, glowing under the golden sunset. While Oia is the go-to for breathtaking views, Pyrgos offers a quieter, more authentic vibe. The island’s volcanic past means black and red sand beaches, and its present view is filled with world-class wineries and fresh seafood.