With 2025 right across the bend and marking the middle of the decade, it might just be the best time to plan to visit some breathtaking European destinations.

Exploring places, indulging in delightful dishes, and uncovering local culture, are amazing ways to spend your vacation next year.

But before we take a look at the year ahead, let’s check out our suggestions from previous years:

• 16 European Destinations for 2016
• 17 European Destinations for 2017
• 18 European Destinations to Visit in 2018
• 19 European Destinations to Visit in 2019
• 20 European Destinations to Visit in 2020
• 21 European Destinations to Visit in 2021
• 22 Destinations in Europe to Visit in 2022
• 23 Destinations to Visit in Europe in 2023
• 24 Destinations to Visit in Europe in 2024
  

No matter why you like to travel, in this article, we’re sharing, in no particular order, the 25 breathtaking European destinations to visit (or revisit) in 2025.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and one of our favorite cities. A true European capital that stood strong during times, surviving political, social, and cultural unrests. To this day, it’s a cultural gem and offers a delightful array of architectural styles.

This city won’t disappoint – aside from the amazing architecture, check out the welcoming baths great parks and boulevards, the many museums, and chic cafes.

>> Read about: Top Budapest Tours, Excursions, and Experiences

Eger, Hungary

A place of legends and home to the majestic fort that stood the time and the Ottoman assault in 1552, this Hungarian town is a paradise for the vine connoisseur. Being located, in one of the most appreciated wine regions of Central Europe, it’s home to many wineries and Spas. You can combine wine tasting at one of the wineries in town or in the Valley of the Beautiful Women with relaxation in Spas like Egerszalók Salt Hill.

We recommend:
Private Cultural and Wine Tasting Tour in Eger
Private winetasting and sightseeing tour to Eger, home to Bull’s Blood wine!

Lake Bakodi, Hungary

Lake Bokodi, surrounded by two villages, Bokod on the west and Oroszlány to the east can’t be further away from the capital’s hustle and bustle, although it’s located quite close (about 80km).

It’s famous for the floating houses, which are, in reality, small fishing cottages, suspended above the lake. Also, it’s the perfect place to spend time in the great outdoors, whether you do any activities on the lake or just stroll around.

Sighisoara, Romania

This medieval wonderland is the birthplace of Vlat Tepes the real person the book Dracula was based on. Discover the medieval streets, visit the historical rich buildings or just go to a horse ride in the untamed wilderness nearby – your fun time is a guarantee.

If you want to dive into history, culture and tradition, it’s one of the places you need to visit. You can learn more about the real Dracula and explore a fantastically preserved medieval citadel at the same time.

Gjirokastër, Albania

Continuing our stay in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, Gjirokastër, an UNESCO site because of its well-preserved Ottoman town. This gem is another example of ancient times ingenuity.

Combining different architecture style, cultures, and culinary traditions, it’s home of the National Folk Festival of Albania, a great time to plan your visit around.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Situated on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, this Croatian medieval town is another UNESCO World Heritage site. An ideal destination both for history lovers and water sport lovers, Dubrovnik offers something for everyone.
From sunny beaches to coble stone walks and medieval forts, fancy restaurants or just relaxing terraces, island hopping or just mountain trails, there’s definitely an activity for you to enjoy.

We recommend:
Dubrovnik Cable Car Ride, Old Town Walking Tour plus City Walls
Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Tour

Syracuse, or Siracusa, Italy

Combining two major cultures, the Greek and the Roman, this historical city on the Mediterranean Island of Sicily is an open history book. From the Roman amphitheater to the Greek theater, and the stone mines of Latomia, you can immerse yourself in art, knowledge, and history while still enjoying the sun and the sea.

We recommend:
Private tour Syracuse -Archaeological Park and Ortigia with lunch

Matera, Italy

Staying on Italy’s coastline, we can enjoy the wonderland Matera shares with us. The city of stones awaits us with its medieval vibes, narrow lanes, stairways and vistas to amaze both our eyes and souls. From ancient times to the present day this amazing stone city is breathtaking both during the day and at night.

Explore the Sassi District, dive into culinary delights or just wander around and be amazed by architecture, or discover the caves. You will definitely find something to fit your style and needs.

We recommend:
Private UNESCO Heritage Tour at Matera and Alberobello
Private Guided Tour Sassi of Matera

Florence, Italy

One of the main hot spots of art and historical architecture, Florence is a true gem of the Renaissance era. Rich in history and art this amazing city is an open book of knowledge, art, history and science.

Also known as Firenze, it is home to one of the biggest art collections in the world hosting masterpieces from Michelangelo, Leonardo Davinci, Raphael and others. Galleries, churches, street art, and museums are waiting the visitors. We can’t move on without saying a word about the famous Ponte Vechio, which has allowed people to cross the Arno River since ancient times.

We recommend:
Pasta Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine
Skip the line: Uffizi and Accademia Small Group Walking Tour
Accademia, Duomo Climb, and Cathedral Tour with Tickets

Meteora, Greece

Located in Greece, another Mediterranean destination, Meteora is a mountainous wonderland, mythical and fascinating. Twenty-four monasteries, build on the top of the world, inhabiting peaks and rock formations. Meteora is an ideal destination, for history and culture lovers, those seeking spirituality, photographers, hikers and rock climbers.

It’s important to note that not all monasteries can be visited and if you do want to visit, make sure to abide by the dress code: cover the knees and shoulders, and avoid wearing too revealing attire. Orthodox Easter time can be fascinating here, but it can also be incredibly busy.

We recommend:
Meteora Monasteries Half-Day Small Group Tour with Transport
Meteora Sunset with Monastery & Hermit Caves Tour in Small Group

Sintra, Portugal

Located in Portugal, in the Greater Lisbon region, Sintra is a little charming historical town, home to many castles, gothic architecture, romantic sceneries, amazing vistas, and good waves for surfing.

The historical center offers views, architecture, and building from ancient times, although you can spot some 16 and 19th centuries and even some modern-day architectural surprises.

We recommend:
Small group tour to Sintra, Pena Palace, pass by Regaleira, Cabo Roca, Cascais
Sintra Full-Day Private Tour – A Journey through Wonderland

Pico Island, Azores

One of the central islands of the Portuguese Azores island group, Pico Island is of volcanic origin, known for its wine yards, black sand, Mount Pico volcano, and tadeonal Portuguese architecture.

No matter if you enjoy hiking, cave exploring, discovering secluded beaches, or enjoying food and culture, you will have a great time here. Plus, if you are passionate about whale watching, this is a great place to indulge in the activity.

Valldemossa, Mallorca, Spain

Located in the Tramuntana mountains, on Mallorca Island, Valldemossa, once home of Chopin and George Sand, is small historical town frozen in time.

Discover its architecture, culture and culinary legacy, visit one of the many churches and monasteries like the Royal Carthusian Monastery, explore places like the remains of King Sancho’s Palace, admire the Church of Sant Bartomeu or go biking and hiking in the nearby hills and mountains.

The best to visit is in spring (March to June), with lower prices and really pleasant weather.

We recommend:
Palma de Mallorca Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Valldemossa, Soller and Serra de Tramuntana
Visit to Sóller and Valldemossa

Bour, France

Known as Avaricum during the Roman times, Bour is a beautiful historical town, looked over by the amazing Cathedral of Saint-Étienne.

Wonder around the medieval streets and visit places like Place Gordaine or Palais Jacques-Cœur. For those who are more into nature and peace, you can stroll through the Marais de Bourges, the marshlands at the edge of the city.

Colmar, France

Another place in France full of history and culture, Colmar is really known for its old town, Musée d’Unterlinden, Musée Bartholdi, Musée du Jouet filled with toys from 1800s, Maison Adolph probably one of the oldest buildings in the city and its canal quarter called Little Venice with some charming bridges.

Walking around the streets you can admire many architectural wonders, cathedrals, churches, palaces, historical buildings and you can have a coffee or a wine on one of the terraces.

Should you plan your visit during Advent, expect to enjoy one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe.

We recommend:
Explore Colmar in 60 minutes with a Local
Discover Colmar’s most Photogenic Spots with a Local

Ulm, Germany

Ulm is a historically important city in Germany with plenty of amazing architectural wonders. One the most outstanding is Ulm Minster, with the tallest spire in the world standing at 161.5 meters or 530 feet, as well, it’s being the birthplace of the genius Albert Einstein. The city was first mentioned in 850 AD thus making it one of the oldest cities in Germany, becoming a free Holy Roman Empire Imperial city in 1155.

Located on the Danube River, you can have a relaxing walk on the promenade or the old Fischerviertel (fishermen’s quarter). If you really enjoy history and architecture this is a place you want to visit in 2025.

We recommend:
Ulm Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

Wuppertal, Germany

Another historical city of Germany Wuppertal has some very interesting attractions. One of the weirdest we could count is the Wuppertal Schwebebahn, a suspended railway that offers an unique take of the city from above. Other landmarks worth visiting are the Von der Heydt Museum located in a historical bank building, the Botanical Garden, Hardt Park, Luisenviertel (old city center), Engels House, St. Laurentius Church, and more.

Hallstatt, Austria

A picture-perfect mountain village in the Salzkammergut region, Hallstatt is known as much for its fantastic vistas and mountains as much for its 7000 year old Salt Mine.

Get closer to nature and life, by getting a bout ride around Hallstätter See, or cycle around, discover the old Dachstein Caves, wonder around the old town or get more macabre learning about life and death at the old Prehistoric Necropolis. Or you can visit The Hallstatt Bone House, also known as the “Hallstatt Ossuary” in the old city center located at St. Michael’s Chapel.

We recommend:
Hallstatt Private Walk Tour With A Professional Guide
Romantic Scenic Walking Tour in Hallstatt

Cicmany, Slovakia

A picturesque mountain village, Cicmany is known for its unique wood traditional houses, amazing landscapes, winter activities, and traditional embroideries.

Rich both in folklore and beautiful vistas, it’s an ideal destination year around. Neighboring the Strážov Mountains it’s also ideal for hiking, nature walks, and winter sports.

We recommend:
From Bratislava: Cicmany tour with Thermal Bath Entrance

Copenhagen, Denmark

The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen is an amazing blend of modern ecssentric and traditional architecture. Enjoy the 17-18th century houses in the lively Nyhvn waterfront district, visit and walk around the Tivoli Gardens, check out the Little Mermaid statue or just cycle around the friendly city – you will definitely find something to do.

Between the historical and cultural sites we can also mention the Amalienborg Palace Royal Palace, Designmuseum Denmark, and Freetown Christiania. Or visit the upper mention Nyhavn and Tivoli Gardens. Beside these, lots of museums are awaiting the curious ones.

During the Advent season discover the legendary and amazing Christmas Market.

We recommend:
Copenhagen Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Guided Bike Tour in Wonderful Copenhagen

Giethoorn, Netherlands

Sometimes called the Venice of the Netherlands, Giethoorn is a charming village with a strong identity.
Explore the canals and thatched-roof cottages by boat, foot or bicycle, or just rent a boat yourself to make your own routes. Get under the wooden bridges, explore the canal village with your own eyes, creating unique opportunities to take pictures.

For those who are not into water, it’s still an amazing place to enjoy some tranquility and some great museums like Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus, or enjoy contemporary art at the Museum De Oude Aarde. For the outdoor adventurers Weerribben-Wieden National Park is nearby, where you hike, walk, bike and explore embracing nature and adventure.

We recommend:
Giethoorn Day Trip from Amsterdam with Boatride
Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Trip from Amsterdam

Edinburgh, Scotland

Even if some people would consider it a cliché destination, Edinburgh is one of the most interesting and fascinating cities in the UK. Hosting one of the best street festivals, and one of the most iconic castles, this excentric city has a big cultural and historical significance. Not only it’s the birthplace of Harry Potter, its 18th century Old Royal School stands proud in the landscape, being also called the Athens of the North, because its amazing architectural style imitating a Greek Temple.

Walk around the Royal Mile, one of the most significant streets in the area, or just sit in one of the pubs or cafes reading a book.

Also in the city, the area known as Arhtur’s Seat is dormant volcano surrounded by myths and legends.
This historical city offers something to do no matter if you love the indoors, outdoors, culture history, culinary expeditions, and art.

We recommend:
Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town
Harry Potter Tour & Edinburgh Castle Visit

Lofoten Islands, Norway

A great destination for those who are hunting a good spot for photographing or just gazing at the Northen Lights, the Lofoen Islands are known for their untouched roughed peeks and fiords.

Leknes being about 105 mile above the Artic Circle is one of the most looked for places for wilderness lovers. For the active but less adventurous, you can go on a guided hike, fishing trip or kayaking expedition. Surfing is also a thing the place is known for.

Explore nature and learn about the culture and tradition of the locals by spending time in one for the fishing villages like Reine or Nusfjord or visit the Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg.

During summer, this place is equally amazing – there is a time frame when the sun never sets. So you get to do a lot of activities under the Midnight Sun.

We recommend:
Hiking Into the Wilderness Of the Lofoten Islands Norway
Private Northern Lights Tour in Lofoten Islands

Naantali, Finland

Naantali, often called “The Sunshine town” is known for its historical city center and old town, amazing sceneries looking over the archipelago, and Moominworld, a family friendly theme park. Although you can find some amazing architecture, like medieval churches and other structures, you definitely won’t be able to pass by the Naantali Spa or one of the local saunas.

During summer you can go swimming at one of the many beaches or take a trip to the nearby shores of Kailo Island. The National Music Festival is organized during June.

If you like the Transylvanian / Hungarian kurtos you will definitely enjoy something similar here: korvapuusti, as well, or one of the many fish dishes.

Gdańsk, Poland

Not far from where World War II began this historical town has a heavy history. Also known for its modern and vibrant lifestyle, you can visit both historical and modern places.

Visit Westerplatte where the war began, or the Golden City Gate, you will be soaking in history. Explore one of the museums like the Main Town Hall Museum or National Museum of Gdansk, and take a break to enjoy a coffee at one of the many coffee shops in the city center or Bustling Dluga Street. The colorful old town will be a welcome and relaxing stop. If you are not afraid of heights climb the Tower of St. Mary’s Church.

We can’t leave the city without soaking in some art and without taking a look at the famous Neptune Fountain.

We recommend:
Gdańsk Old Town Private Walking Tour with Legends and Facts

Ending 2024, a difficult year for many, we can only plan for the future, thus we hope you were able to help you find new places to visit in 2025 and escape the monotony of life, discover new things and perspectives. May 2025 be a year full of travels and great experiences.

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