This Europe bucket list covers all the must-see places to visit and top experiences to be had on the wonderful European continent. Europe is one of the most diverse places on Earth and the perfect place to have a few bucket list experiences.
This bucket list covers all those amazing “once in a lifetime” experiences that can only be had in Europe. Every country in Europe offers something different and unique to experience, and this Europe bucket list will help guide your adventures. Use this bucket list while you travel through Europe to experience some of the best things the continent has to offer.
There is something on this bucket list for every type of traveler; history, adventure, culture, food, and more! Prepare to be amazed and fall deeper in love with Europe and all its magical offerings.
(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See disclosure for more information.)
Europe Bucket List: 50 Must-visit Places and Experiences
Swim in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
Iceland is a country packed with bucket list things to see and do. The entire country is full of natural wonders just waiting to be discovered. From the roaring waterfalls to the historic national parks to the black sand beaches, Iceland is a nature lovers paradise. Amongst all this beauty sits the magical Blue Lagoon in Iceland a major Europe bucket list place to visit.
The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland and one of the 25 wonders of the world. It is characterized by its stunning blue geothermal waters which are full of vitamins and minerals. The lagoon pools are formed from the natural lava rock and the blue water comes from the ground minerals. This is an amazing bucket list experience everyone should visit at least once in their life.
While in Iceland be sure to also consider climbing the glaciers, one of the top bucket list adventures for women!
Take a Gondola Ride in Venice
Venice is one of Europe’s most romantic and magical cities. The small island is made up of 150 canals that run throughout the city creating a maze of small streets, little alleyways, and charming bridges. Due to its beauty and charm, it is often regarded as one of Italy’s prettiest cities. There are a ton of things to do in Venice, however, the top bucket list experience is to take a gondola ride through the canals.
The Gondolas are a very authentic Venetian mode of transportation. Where you can take a 30 minute to one hour ride around the city with a trained Gondolier and in one of the iconic Gondola boats. The only thing that makes this experience better is getting your Gondolier to sing during your journey through the magical canals of Venice.
Watch the Grand Prix in Monaco
Monaco is a country in Europe that sits along the stunning French Rivera. It is a country built for the rich and is the epitome of opulence and wealth in Europe. A visit here will you how the richest of the rich of Europe live! One of the highlights of Monaco is the Grand Prix which comes once a year. This is a Formula One race through the city streets and is one of the main events of the year. During this race celebrities from around the world flock to Monaco to see the race and party alongside it.
Admire the Tiles of Porto
The stunning country of Portugal is full of plenty of stunning sights and attractions but the most unique to add to your Europe bucket list is to admire the beautiful Azulejos tiles in Porto. Porto is an old city with a unique culture and history. The architecture is breathing taking and in various parts of the city, you will find blue colored tiles creating stunning and intricate images. Spotting these is a must.
See the Northern Lights in Iceland
Iceland’s natural beauty is unmatched. Due to its high altitude, Iceland gets dark at 6 pm from September to March and during this time the colorful Northern Lights can be observed. Iceland is one of the best places to spot the dancing lights in the sky and experience a natural phenomenon like no other.
Go Wine Tasting in France
France is the ultimate wine lover’s paradise. The whole country is littered with amazing wineries that visitors can go to and taste fresh wine. If you are a wine lover, or just like to try a countries specialties then wine tasting in France is a bucket list item for you. The best places to go to for wine tasting in France are Bordeaux and Provence.
Ride a Bike in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city in the Netherland with more bikes than people! Biking is the main mode of transportation and the best way to get around the stunning city. Biking in Amsterdam is an adventure to say the least and one of the top things to add to not only your Amsterdam bucket list but also your European bucket list.
Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most famous sites in Ireland. They are a geographical wonder that hold huge importance to the country. The sea cliffs run for 14 kilometers and attract tourists from all around the world eager to see the natural richness of Ireland’s beautiful west coast.
Take a train in Switzerland
A train ride in Switzerland offers its riders stunning, scenic views of the mountains and the natural beauty of the country. There are plenty of scenic trains that will take you to and from different cities and show you the beyond idyllic countryside. Both in the summer and in the winter the views are beautiful and something you can only see amongst Switzerland’s unique and diverse landscape.
Below are some train ride options for you to look at:
Watch the Sunset in Santorini
Santorini is one of Greece’s most famous islands that welcomes couples and honeymooners from around the world. Its fame comes from the stunning views of whitewashed buildings with pastel accents that are built into the mountainside. The best thing about visiting Santorini is the stunning sunset views. With the sun descending into the water the warm glow makes the buildings look beyond magical.
Dinner Under the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic structures in the world. No Europe bucket list would be complete without visiting and experiencing its magic. Even though the Eiffel Tower is just a structure it is a highlight of Paris and a must-see while in the city.
The best experience to be had with the Eiffel Tower is to join the hundreds of people who bring blankets wine and cheese to eat on the green space in front of the Eiffel Tower as the sunsets. This Europe bucket list experience is something you will never forget.
Eat Churros in Spain
Traveling and eating the foods the country is famous for is one of the best ways to experience and delve into different cultures. In Spain, one of their most famous desserts is Churros! Tasting some of these delicious sweet dough sticks from the source is the best way to eat your way into a new culture.
Bike through the Tulip Fields in the Netherlands
The endless tulip fields in the Netherlands is one of the most beautiful and mesmerizing things you will see in Europe in the spring months. From late March to early May the Dutch countryside explodes in colorful fields of tulips that can be explored by foot or by bike. There are so many fields that biking around them is the best way to see the stunning fields to the fullest.
Iconic photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy’s most iconic structures and a top photo spot for tourists. Visiting Pisa and taking a photo pretending to hold up the structure is an Italian adventure that will have you feeling like the ultimate tourist, but also like you’ve checked a huge item off your bucket list.
Visit Stonehenge
Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous pre-historic monuments. It is also a World Heritage site and a visit here is sure to be high on anyone’s bucket list. The monument is located in England and is home to various stones that are around 13 feet tall and 25 tonnes.
Drink beer in Belgium
Belgium is famous for dishes like waffles and fries, but one of the most popular things to consume here is beer! Belgium is beer heaven where you can find a ton of unique and interesting beer types and flavors. Belgium offers pale ales, lambic beers, stouts, sour brown ales, and more!
Go inside the Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the most historic structures in the world. This stunning structure is located in the heart of Rome, Italy, and is an absolute must to add to your Europe bucket list. The Colosseum was built in 70 A.D and still stands today in great condition. A visit inside this historic and iconic Roman amphitheater will show you just how amazing the Romans were.
Find the Astronomical Clock in Prague
Prague is a stunning old city full of wonder and beauty. One of the top things to discover here is the ancient astronomical clock in the old town. This clock dates back to medieval times and is an amazing feat of art and engineering. The clock tells the time and date, shows zodiac information, and astronomical information.
Eat Pizza in Naples
Naples is the birthplace of pizza and there is no better place in the world to eat this amazing dish. There are a ton of authentic pizza restaurants in Naples that serve out of this world delicious pizzas in a variety of arrangements. If you are a pizza lover then be sure to add eating pizza in Naples to your Europe bucket list.
Geek out on Harry Potter in London
Harry Potter lovers rejoice! The magical story of Harry Potter has never been easier to follow and connect with than when visiting London. All around London there are Harry Potter attractions and experiences to be had. It is the perfect opportunity to channel your inner wizard and geek out in the best way possible.
Go to a Christmas Market in Vienna
Vienna is a stunning naturally beautiful city full of amazing and unique things to do. During the Christmas season is when Vienna really comes alive! This is due to the Vienna Christmas market that is located in the charming city center. A visit to this famous Christmas market is a bucket-list must to see and experience the warm Christmas charm and vendors that take up the streets.
Island hopping in Croatia
With over 1000 islands, Croatia is an island-hopping heaven! This stunning country is full of authentic little beaches, blue waters, and natural wonders. It is the perfect place to grab a boat and jump between islands. Prepare to fall in love with the beautiful Adriatic Sea in this stunning Balkan country.
Attend Oktoberfest
As one of the Europes’ largest events and the biggest Volksfest in the world, Oktoberfest is definitely something that should be on everyone’s European bucket list. The annual festival is held in Munich, Germany for 16- 18 days from mid-September to the first Sunday in October. Even if you do not like beer the atmosphere and excitement of Oktoberfest are unmatched and something you need to experience once in your life.
Go Shopping Copenhagen
Scandinavian countries are notorious for being the best places for everything fashion related. In Copenhagen, Denmark you will find some of the best street styles in Europe which makes it the perfect place to go shopping and pick up some unique fashion items. If you are a true fashion lover you can even visit during Copenhagen Fashion Week to see the amazing clothing and fashion to its fullest.
Sleep in snowy Finland
Northern Finland in the Lapland region is the perfect place to visit to achieve all your winter wonderland dreams. The white paradise views of the snowy trees and blanket ground is the perfect view to wake up to. The best part is Lapland is full of hotels made to amplify these views like the one pictured here.
Admire the Views of Positano
Positano is one of the most beautiful cities on the Amalfi Coast. The stunning stretch of Coastline is packed with beautiful villages, rugged mountains, and blue water beaches making it a European trip must! There are a ton of things to do in Positano but the top thing to do is simply admire the stunning village views. Positano is a travel destination like no other with the pastel-colored houses built into the mountainside. No European travel bucket list would be complete without a visit to this coastal gem.
Learn about WWII
No visit to Europe should be done without learning and educating yourself on World War 2. WWII had a profound effect on many countries and people in Europe and learning about its effects and horrors is a sad but necessary thing. There are various monuments tours and museums that are worth visiting to educate and reflect on the past. The top locations to learn about WWII are Poland and Germany.
Listen to ABBA in Stockholm
ABBA is the most famous group to ever come from Sweden and you will find its influence all around. Stockholm even has an interactive museum dedicated to the group where you can listen and learn about everything ABBA. Listening to ABBA in Stockholm is the best way to appreciate and delve into Sweden’s musical history.
Eat Schnitzel in Germany
Schnitzel is an authentic German dish that all visitors must try. Eating a Schnitzel in its home country is a must to sample and taste the flavors of Germany. If you are a vegetarian like myself this one might have to be replaced with a sweet dessert instead.
View Paris from the Arc De Triomphe
Viewing cities from above provides the post point of view! Paris is a huge city and viewing its vast size and buildings stretching in all directions is unbelievable. The best way to view Paris from above is by climbing to the top of the famous Arc De Triomphe. From the top of this structure, you can stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the city of Paris bustling below.
Pub Crawl in Dublin
Dublin is full of pubs perfect for sitting in and grabbing a beer (or two). Pubs are a huge part of Irish culture and experiencing them is the best way to immerse yourself in the ways of the Irish people. A pub crawl in Dublin allows you to experience a bunch of different pubs and see all the different sides of the cities pub culture.
Go Swimming in the Algarve
The Algarve is Portugals Southernmost region known for its vivid blue waters and white-washed rock formations. It is the perfect place to escape to for a tropical beach getaway and to see one of the most diverse spots in Portugal. If you are a beach traveler always on the hunt for sun and sand the Algarve is a bucket list place for you. The top two places to visit in the Algarve are Lagos, Portugal and Albufeira, Portugal.
Make a Wish at the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome, Italy. This famous fountain is featured in various movies and TV shows as the place to be when in Rome. This is a huge fountain decorated in ornate stone statues and details. When you visit this fountain you must throw a coin in it and make a wish!
Admire The Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
Budapest, Hungary is a stunning city full of ornate architecture and beautiful details. Amongst all the beauty sits the Hungarian parliament, a huge white building with tiny detailing that must have taken years! A visit to Europe is not complete without heading to Budapest and seeing the parliament and other stunning buildings.
See Sagrada de Familia in Barcelona
The Basílica de la Sagrada Família is an absolutely stunning church in Barcelona. This church is sure to be on everyone’s European bucket list because of its unique and interesting construction. Construction started in 1882 and is still going on to this day! The estimated date of completion is 2026 which means it will have taken longer to build than the Great Pyramids.
Hike the Kotor Fortress
Kotor is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Montenegro. The quaint town is full of rich history and still looks like an authentic medieval village. The highlight of Kotor is the hike to the top of Kotor Fortress which offers panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountain range. A view this stunning and magical is well worth a place on your Europe Bucket List.
Party in Ibiza
Ibiza is a small island off the coast of mainland Spain know for its amazing parties and clubs. It is the best place to go to for nightly events with famous DJs, full beach clubs, and boating around on the blue water. Even if you are not a partier Ibiza is a great place to visit for a drink in a lively beach club or relaxing on the beach.
Take home Belgian Chocolate
Chocolate from Belgium is the best kind of chocolate in the world. The countries history with chocolate dates back to the 19th century and is still thriving today. Chocolate from Belgium has a higher cocoa amount than other chocolate making it taste unique and delicious. Going to Belgium and taking some chocolate home is a must.
Do Snow sports in Switzerland
Switzerland’s huge mountains and snowy winter conditions make it the perfect place to do snow sports. There are a ton of places for skiers and snowboarders to practice their skills and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Swiss mountain range.
Go Hiking in Norway
Norway’s huge mountain ranges make for some amazing hikes! Nature, views, and crisp Norwegian air are the ultimate addition to any European bucket list. Even if you are not huge into hiking you will definitely appreciate the scenery and natural wonders of Norway.
Visit Croatias National Parks
Croatia is a unique country full of beautiful national parks with lush greenery and magical waterfalls. In total, there are 8 national parks in Croatia all with their own special features and things to discover. The two most famous are Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National park. Both come with amazing hikes and stunning waterfalls.
Visit the Game of Thrones Spots in Malta
There is Game of Thrones filming spots all around Europe which are amazing to visit for any GOT fans. One of the most famous is in Dubrovnik, but due to the popularity of GOT, the GOT tour is unbearably busy and too hectic to enjoy. That is why visiting Malta to enjoy the Game of Throne filming spots is suggest for your Europe bucket list.
Eat Pirogies in Poland
Poland is home to some of the best pirogies in the world. As the birthplace of pirogies, this country has had years to perfect the recipe and make a delicious dish out of them. For anyone unsure of what pirogues are, they simply are dough filled with potatoes and cheese, plus they can include a few other additions depending on your preferences. One of the best cities in Poland is Gdansk, read more about it here!
Visit Dracula’s Castle in Romania
Dracula’s castle is a national monument and one of the most famous landmarks in Romania. This castle is more commonly referred to as Bran Castle and is the best addition to add to a European bucket list that is a little off the beaten track and not in one of Europes most trusty countries.
Explore Edinburg Castle
The Edinburg Castle is a dominating part of the Edinburg skyline and a historic place to visit and enjoy. Its location on the stunning Scottish land atop Castle Rock makes it an enticing and must-visit place in Europe. This castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe and has a long history of royal inhabitance.
View the Huge Church of St. Sava in Belgrade
The church of St. Sava in Belgrade is one of the largest churches in the world. It is an iconic part of Belgrade and people come from around the world to see the stunning, towering building in person. Although there are a lot of things to do in Belgrade, this one tops the list which makes it the perfect Europe bucket list addition.
Go to the Beach in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a unique Balkan country with a wide range of offers. Its location along the Black Sea has made it an interesting beach vacation spot! Not many people think of Bulgaria when they think of sandy beaches and blue waters, but this country has it. This is the ideal place to add to your Europe bucket list that is different and unique and will show you a side to Europe you did not expect.
Sail around Capri
Capri is one of Italy’s most beautiful and lush islands. This small island is located off the stunning Amalfi Coast and made up of jagged white rocks, clear blue waters, and amazing views. The island of Capri is a very popular holiday place for the rich and famous and is an interesting place, to say the least. The best thing to do here is to sail around the blue waters and enjoy the warm water breeze. You don’t have to be rich to add this to your Europe bucket list.
Experience the hot springs in Italy
The amazing blue water hot springs in Saturnia are one of the most lusted after Europe bucket list experiences! These amazing natural hot springs are located in Tuscany and welcome a ton of visitors eager to swim in the warm pods of water.
Go to Lake Bled in Slovenia
Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in Slovenia. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and white-capped mountains. While in the middle of the lake there is a small island with a castle! Crossing this off your Europe bucket list will give you a postcard-perfect view and an amazing adventure.
Explore The Pena Palace
The Pena Palace is one of the most unique and quirky castles in Europe. It is located in Sintra just a short distance from Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. A visit here is one of the highlights of visiting Portugal and a Europe bucket list must! There is no better place to roam around and admire.
Wander Old town Tallin
Tallinn is an up and coming tourist destination in Estonia. Every year more and more people are heading to Tallin to explore its authentic, untouched streets. This is the perfect place to add to your Europe Bucket List if you are eager to explore one of Europes best not so hidden gems.
Travel Insurance
It is important to have travel insurance before traveling. It’s the number one thing you should always pack before traveling that can save you a lot of money, time, and stress. World Nomads is a popular Travel Insurance choice. Enter your details below to get a free quote!
This Europe bucket list covers all the top things to do and see while visiting this magical continent. If you have yet to visit Europe, start planning your first visit based on which items you want to cross off your bucket list first!
Like this post? PIN “Europe Bucket List” for later!
Love,
SSW
What an awesome bucket list!! So inspiring!
This is a good list, Sam, as it incorporates a variety of activities. I found Stonehenge over-rated. I think Windsor & Eton would be a better day trip from London. Or Canterbury which has a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Great post! I am so happy I completed to majority of this list, bust I still have quite a few to check off.
Very inspiring bucketlist. I’ve checked off some of them, but still have a lot left. Thanks for the ideas