12 Bucket List Places to Visit in Europe
Traveling is one of my greatest passions. I couldn’t imagine life without exploring new places. Here are 12 bucket list places to visit in Europe.
#1: Budapest, Hungary-
Budapest is home to elaborate statues, cobblestone streets, and kind locals. I recently traveled to Vienna and Budapest in Europe and had the best 31st birthday trip. Highlights from the trip included seeing the iconic Parliament Building illuminate the night sky on a Danube River cruise, exploring the Buda Castle district, and visiting Saint Stephen’s Basilica. My favorite day was when we relaxed at the Gellert Baths, one of the many natural thermal hot springs in Budapest.
To Do:
- Dunabe River Cruise- Enjoy unlimited champagne and watch Budapest landmarks light up the sky on a cruise!
- Saint Stephen’s Basilica- Visit the most beautiful church in all of Budapest. We even took the elevator to the top of the church and got amazing 360-degree views.
- Buda Castle District- Go to the Matthias Church, Fishermen’s Bastion, and the old Town in the Buda Castle District.
To get to the Buda Castle District, you must cross the Chain Bridge and ride the funicular.
- Parliament Building– Book a tour to see the interior of the Parliament Building. The gold and intricate details that lead to the Holy Crown in the Dome Hall are stunning.
- Thermal Hot Springs- Budapest is known as the city of spas because there is a network of natural thermal springs. We went to the Gellert Baths, and it did not disappoint. The intricate details, including indoor and outdoor pools, bars, a cold plunge area, and saunas, made for the perfect day. This place was so relaxing. Other natural hot springs in Budapest are the Szechenyi Baths, Rudas Baths, and Lukacs Baths.
#2: Vienna, Austria-
Vienna has cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture. The top must-see attractions in Vienna include the majestic Hofburg Palace, the Sisi Museum, and the Belvedere. Have cake and coffee at the legendary Café Central, attend a classical concert, and stroll through the picturesque Volksgarten to make the most of your time in Vienna. We attended a classical concert that featured orchestra, opera, and dance. The performers were outstanding.
To Do:
- Classical Concert- Book an elegant performance featuring an orchestra!
- Hofburg Palace and Sisi Museum- Tour the museum dedicated to Empress Elisabeth Sisi of Austria, showcasing her personal artifacts and life story. She loved to travel, ride horses, and fashion. Her son killed himself and his mistress, and she was depressed and wore black until the day she was murdered in Geneva. The Hofburg Palace is the former imperial residence in Vienna.
- Saint Stephen’s Basilica- You can go to the top of the stunning Gothic cathedral known for its intricate architecture and south tower.
- Coffee Houses- Central Cafe- Have coffee at the famous Viennese coffeehouse known for its historic ambiance and traditional pastries.
- Horse Carriage Ride- Go on a romantic tour through the cobblestone, narrow streets in a traditional horse-drawn carriage.
- Belvedere- Tour the exquisite baroque palace complex housing an impressive collection of Austrian art, including works by Gustav Klimt.
- Schronbrunn Palace- You can also book tickets to see the former summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, renowned for its grand architecture and extensive gardens.
- Austrian Parliament- Don’t miss the neo-classical architecture and the rich political history of the Austrian Parliament.
#3: Amsterdam, Netherlands-
Amsterdam is renowned for its picturesque bridges, winding rivers, and historic canals. Be sure to book your tickets to the Anne Frank Museum in advance.
To Do:
- Boat Tour- Cruise the canals on a tour to enjoy scenic views of the historic neighborhoods.
- Van Gogh Museum-Visit the Van Gogh Museum to admire masterpieces by the renowned Dutch painter.
- Rijksmuseum– This museum showcases an impressive collection of Dutch art and history.
- Anne Frank Museum– This museum offers a glimpse into history through the secret annex where Anne Frank hid.
- Bike Riding– Amsterdam, the city of bikes, is best explored on two wheels—book a bike tour and experience it firsthand!
#4: Bratislava, Slovakia-
Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, has a fascinating culture and scenic river views, making it a delightful destination to explore. The best things to do are to walk through the old town and see the Bratislava Castle.
- Bratislava Castle– The castle is a historic fortress dating back to the 9th century. The museums in the Castle provide insights into Slovakia’s rich history and culture.
- Local Food and Drinks– Dine at traditional Slovak restaurants and enjoy local wines.
- St. Martin’s Cathedral- Explore the gothic-style church! The largest, oldest churches in Bratislava.
- Day Tour to Bratislava from Vienna– Did you know Bratislava is an hour away from Vienna? Book the day trip on TripAdvisor!
#5: Germany-
Germany is a country in Central Europe with many castles. Be sure to visit the vibrant cities: Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. The picturesque landscapes, such as the Bavarian Alps and the Black Forest, are beautiful. It’s famous for traditions like Oktoberfest, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
- Munich: In Munich, be sure to go to the Marienplatz, which is the city center, attend Oktoberfest, and relax in beautiful parks like the English Garden.
- Berlin: In Berlin, you can visit iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and explore historic sites such as the Berlin Wall.
- Hamburg: Hamburg’s waterways, canals, and bridges are a defining feature of the city. Discover the Hafen City waterfront for incredible views. A famous place to visit in Hamburg is the Miniatur Wunderland, the largest model railway system.
- Black Forest-The Black Forest is known for its dense woods, charming villages, cuckoo clocks, and scenic hiking trails.
- Bavarian Alps– Be sure to book a day trip from Munich to the Neuschwanstein Castle. The fairy-tale palace nestled in the Bavarian Alps.
#6: Turkey-
Turkey is a diverse country that bridges Europe and Asia. Turkey has a vast amount of experiences to add to your bucket list. Book the iconic Cappadocia hot air balloon ride, relax at the beaches in Antalya, and visit the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
- Istanbul: Visit Hagia Sophia, explore the Grand Bazaar, and cruise the Bosphorus in Istanbul.
- Antalya: Relax on stunning beaches and visit ancient ruins like Perge and Aspendos in Antalya.
#7: Stockholm, Sweden-
Stockholm is a vibrant, picturesque city known for their Scandinavian culture. Discover Stockholm’s charm by strolling through Gamla Stan and visiting the Royal Palace. The Stockholm archipelago offers scenic boat tours that allow you to explore thousands of islands.
- Old Town- Stockholm’s Old Town, or Gamla Stan, is a charming cobblestone neighborhood filled with historic buildings, narrow streets, and lively cafes.
- Royal Palace-The Royal Palace in Stockholm is an impressive residence of the Swedish monarch.
- Boat Tour– A boat tour in Stockholm provides a scenic way to explore the city’s picturesque archipelago and admire its beautiful waterways.
- Vasa Museum– The Vasa Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Sweden’s maritime history.
- Skansen Open-Air Museum– Skansen is the world’s oldest open-air museum featuring historic Swedish buildings and native wildlife.
#8: Tallinn, Estonia-
Tallinn is a city with medieval charm and beautiful architecture. Be sure to visit Tallinn’s Old Town, Toompea Castle, and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral- The cathedral is a grand Orthodox church in Tallinn, known for its domes.
- Old Town– Tallinn’s Old Town is a charming medieval district filled with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant town squares. Book a walking tour of the city!
- Toompea Castle– Book tickets to the Toompea Castle for the amazing views.
#9: Copenhagen, Denmark-
Copenhagen is a city with historic charm and is famous for its colorful waterfront. The best things to do are to visit the Tivoli Gardens, stroll along Nyhavn Harbor, and see the Little Mermaid statue. Add the Christiansborg Palace to your list of things to do!
- Tivoli Gardens– Tivoli Gardens is a historic amusement park famous for its gardens and thrilling rides. Book your tickets!
- Nyhavn Harbor– Nyhavn Harbor is a picturesque waterfront district lined with colorful townhouses, historic ships, and lively cafes.
- Christiansborg Palace– Christiansborg Palace is a grand government building that houses Denmark’s parliament.
#10: Prague, Czech Republic-
Prague is a fairy-tale city renowned for its historic bridges. Walk across Charles Bridge and explore Prague Castle, discover Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock, and enjoy local Czech cuisine and beer in Prague.
- Charles Bridge- Visit the stunning Gothic stone bridge adorned with statues.
- Prague Castle
- Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock
- Local Czech Cuisine and Beer– Be sure to enjoy authentic Czech cuisine.
#11: Monte Carlo, Monaco-
Monte Carlo, in the heart of the French Riviera, has stunning Mediterranean views. Try your luck at the Casino de Monte-Carlo, stroll along the glamorous Port Hercule, and visit popular museums to make the most out of your trip. Must-see museums are the Prince’s Palace and the Oceanographic Museum.
- Casino de Monte-Carlo– The Casino de Monte-Carlo is an iconic luxury casino renowned for its glamorous gaming rooms.
- Port Hercule– Port Hercule is a bustling marina in Monaco.
- Prince’s Palace– The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the Monegasque royal family.
#12: Malta-
Malta is a sunny Mediterranean island with gorgeous beaches. The best things to do include touring the ancient walled city of Mdina, relaxing on beautiful beaches, snorkeling in the clear waters, and exploring the Megalithic Temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra.
- Mdnia- Mdina is a preserved medieval fortress filled with narrow streets, historic architecture, and a timeless atmosphere.
- Megalithic Temples– The Megalithic Temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra showcase prehistoric architectural heritage.
- Relax at the Beach– Popular turquoise sandy beaches include Golden Bay, Mellieha Bay, and Ramla Bay.
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