With 2020 slowly coming to an end it’s time to start dreaming of future travels! It’s been such a crazy rollercoaster of a year with cancelled and postponed trips for everyone and some of you never even got the chance to travel at all this year.
That’s why I wanted to create this list of 11 beautiful places in Europe! I chose to focus on Europe because who knows what will be possible next year? But it’s a pretty safe bet that at least we’ll be able to travel within Europe!
For this list I only included places that I visited myself so I can share my personal experience with you!
I love being outdoors and the past year this feeling has only grown stronger. So if you’re only interested in city trips then this list isn’t for you. BUT if you’re into beautiful landscapes and dazzling nature then this list is a MUST READ!
11 Beautiful Places in Europe You Should Visit in 2021
I know I know… How can this list ever be complete with only 11 places?
Well first of all I only wanted to include the most beautiful places in Europe that I visited myself. This way I can give you my personal recommendations and guarantee that you’ll have a fun and safe trip here!
And second… in this article I focus on the most beautiful nature places in Europe. A lot of popular cities in Europe already suffer from mass tourism so I don’t want to draw more attention to them and rather focus on some of the most incredible landscapes our continent has to offer!
Are you ready?
Lets’ go!
1. Berchtesgaden, Germany
The area of Berchtesgaden is located in Bavaria, in the South of Germany and in my personal opinion it’s one of the most beautiful places in Europe! The town is completely surrounded by mountains and as soon as you arrive you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of ‘The Sound of Music’.
How many days do you need to explore Berchtesgaden?
I recommend to stay 3 to 4 nights. This way you’ll also have time to go on one or two of the many hikes and maybe even take a day trip to Halstatt?!
What are the top things to do in Berchtesgaden?
- Go on a boat ride on the Königssee and visit Obersee
- Visit Hintersee and the nearby Zauberwald
- Hike to the Watzmann House
- Hike to Maria Gern
What’s the best place to stay in Berchtesgaden?
If you want luxury on your trip and stay at a more modern hotel then the best place to stay is Kempinski Berchtesgaden.
If you want that typical wooden chalet style and a hotel that also cares about the environment then you should stay at the Berghotel Rehlegg.
Other useful guides for your trip to Berchtesgaden
The Best 3 Days Berchtesgaden Itinerary
Where to stay in Berchtesgaden
The Perfect Visit of Königssee in Germany
Top Things to do in and around Berchtesgaden
2. Madeira, Portugal
The island of Madeira took my breath away as soon as I saw it emerging through the clouds from the tiny airplane window. Madeira is the perfect destination for anyone who is looking for a little adventure. The South of the island is mostly sunny and dry but the North of the island is a lot more tropical and is the main reason why they call Madeira the Hawaï of Europe.
How many days do you need to explore Madeira?
In my opinion you need at least an entire week to explore one of the most beautiful places in Europe! Madeira is known as a hikers paradise and a couple of days on this island just won’t do.
What are the top things to do in Madeira?
- Hike the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo at sunrise
- Visit Fanal, a beautiful and moody laurel forest
- Explore Ponta de São Lourenço
- Drive along the North coast of the island
What’s the best place to stay in Madeira?
I chose to stay in Funchal at the Sé Boutique Hotel. It was the perfect base for an incredible 7 day road trip.
Other useful guides for your trip to Madeira
The perfect 7 day road trip itinerary for Madeira
The 6 best hiking trails on Madeira
Where to stay on Madeira – a complete review
3. Interlaken, Switzerland
I visited Switzerland for the first time this Summer and as soon as I arrived in Interlaken I was completely sold. It’s the perfect place to explore the beautiful Jungfrau region and for your first visit to Switzerland!
How many days do you need to explore Interlaken?
The town of Interlaken itself is pretty small but it’s the area surrounding it why you’re here. Let’s say you need at least 5 nights to properly explore the region.
What are the top things to do in Interlaken?
- Explore the fairytale area of Lauterbrunnen
- Watch the sunset at Iseltwald
- Pay a visit to Blausee and Oeschinensee
- Take the cable car up to Grindelwald First
- Take the scenic train ride up to Jungfrau
What’s the best place to stay in Interlaken?
I stayed in the beautiful Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage and had the most amazing view over the mountains from my room.
Other useful guides for your trip to Interlaken
Epic Things To Do In The Jungfrau Region
The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
4. Iceland
I can’t write a list of the most beautiful places in Europe and not include my favourite country in the entire world?! So far I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the land of Ice and Fire two times and hopefully there will be a third time in 2021! Iceland will knock your socks off as soon as you arrive and to me the only way to explore its beauty is to go on a road trip with a camper van!
How many days do you need to explore Iceland?
Well that totally depends on the time of year that you’re visiting, how much you want to see and drive and how fast you want to travel.
If you’re traveling in the Summer months and you want to take it slow and see a lot you’ll need 2 weeks. But thanks to the amount of daylight hours in the Summer months you can also drive the entire ring road in 1 week.
In the Winter you’ll need at least 10 days to drive the Ring Road due to the lack of daylight hours!
What are the top things to do in Iceland?
- If it’s your first time make sure to pay a visit to the Blue Lagoon at the end of your trip
- Explore the Snaefelssness peninsula
- Drive the Ring Road in a camper van
- See as many waterfalls as possible
- Hike through the Icelandic highlands in the Summer months
What’s the best place to stay in Iceland?
Like I said before to me the only and best way to explore Iceland is to do it by camper van. Both times that I visited I teamed up with Happy Campers and they have a camper van ready for any type of adventure that you have in mind.
Other useful guides for your trip to Iceland
The Ultimate 2 Week Iceland Road Trip Itinerary
10 reasons to visit Iceland during the Summer
The Most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland
The photography guide to Iceland
Traveling the Ring Road with Happy Campers
5. Hrensko, Czech Republic
Hrensko is a rather unknown place in Europe but definitely worth a visit! Imagine a beautiful morning walk through what pretty much looks like an enchanted forest and there is literally no one else around for hours! Sounds pretty good right?
There are beautiful forest trails next to a cobbling river, a place that on first sight looks like a haunted house and a beautiful national park all within 30 minutes driving of each other.
How many days do you need to explore Hrensko?
You’ll need at least 2 days to see everything Hrensko has to offer. But if you also want to visit Saxony Switzerland right across the border in Germany I would add 2 more days just to be sure!
What are the top things to do in Hrensko?
- Hike through Edmund’s Wild Gorge and go for a boat ride
- Visit the Old Gasworks House
- Hike to the Pravčická Archway, the largest natural archway in Europe
- Spend a day at the Saxon Switzerland National Park
What’s the best place to stay in Hrensko?
If you don’t want to stay in Hrensko itself I strongly advice you to stay at Forester Park Resort (U Forta). It’s located in the middle of nature, it’s cheap, they serve good breakfast AND it’s 2 minutes walking to the hiking trails!
Other useful guides for your trip to Hrensko
A Weekend in Hrensko: The Ultimate 2 Day Hrensko Itinerary
6. The Ardennes, Belgium
Let’s be honest for a hot minute, if Corona hadn’t happened I would have never discovered so many new and beautiful places in Belgium. I didn’t just want to sit at home and complain about not being able to travel so I decided to venture out in my own country. And when it comes to nature our little country can be really proud!
How many days do you need to explore the Ardennes?
For us locals a weekend is usually more than enough but if you’re not from Belgium and you want to see as much as possible I suggest you stay for at least 5 days.
What are the top things to do in the Ardennes?
- Visit Furfooz nature park and hike from Chateau de Vêves to Chateau Walzin
- Spend an afternoon at Nismes
- Visit the abbey of Orval and taste some of Belgians finest beer
- Go for a hike in the High Fens
- Walk the trail of the beautiful Ninglinspo
What’s the best place to stay in the Ardennes?
Ever wanted to stay in a castle and feel like royalty? All of that is possible at Manoir de Lébioles, a beautiful castle located on the outskirts of Spa. The mansion was built in 1910 and used to serve as a place for performances of the National Theatre, concerts, hunts and balls.
Or have you ever wanted to stay in a beautiful cabin in the woods? Then you definitely have to check out Les Cabanes de Rensiwez! Each cabin offers a different experience in the heart of the Ardennes but no matter which one you choose you’ll be able to completely unwind and relax.
And at Ne5t you’ll get to stay at one of the most charming farms in Belgium! It took the owner nearly 10 years to transform his farm into the romantic wellness hotel it is today. Including an enormous swimming pool and fabulous restaurant.
Other useful guides for your trip to the Ardennes
10 Most Unique Places To Stay In Belgium
The Most Beautiful Castles in Belgium You Must See
11 Beautiful Places To Visit in Wallonia
The Best Places in Belgium for Fall Photography
7. The Dolomites, Italy
If you’ve been following my adventures for the past year then you know I have a soft spot for the Dolomites in Italy. There’s something about these rugged mountains that keeps me coming back for more! The Dolomites are the perfect place to explore for any type of hiker as well. Wether you’re just starting out or you’re already experienced I can guarantee you’ll have the time of your life!
How many days do you need to explore the Dolomites?
There’s so much to see and do in the Dolomites that you can easily stay 2 weeks and never get bored. But most people tend to stay for around 5 days the first time they visit!
What are the top things to do in the Dolomites?
- Spend at least half a day in Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm and have lunch at the Rauch Hütte
- Visit Lago di Braies in the early morning and go for a boatride
- Hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit and to the Cadini di Missurina
- Drive the Passo Giau
- Watch the sunset at Val di Funes
What’s the best place to stay in the Dolomites?
I stayed at Alpina Dolomites in Compatsch for 3 nights and explored the area of Seiser Alm from there. Especially if you want to see the sunrise over the meadow it can be convenient to stay in the area itself.
Another recommendation I can make is Hotel Dolomitenhof, located a little passed Sesto but with one of the most spectacular views!
Other useful guides for your trip to the Dolomites
How To Visit Lago Di Braies And Take Beautiful Photos
The Most Beautiful Places in the Dolomites
How To Visit Alpe Di Siusi – A Complete Guide
The Ultimate 5 Days In The Dolomites Itinerary
Top 8 Best And Easy Day Hikes In The Dolomites
8. Tyrol, Austria
From emerald lakes to beautiful mountain ranges, Tyrol is definitely one of the most beautiful regions in Austria and has some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe!
How many days do you need to explore Tyrol?
In my opinion you’ll need at least a week in this region and if you love hiking I would say go two weeks!
What are the top things to do in Tyrol?
- Hike to the beautiful Seebensee and Drachensee
- Spend a sunny afternoon at Plansee
- Go on one of the many hikes in Sölden
- Relax at the Aqua Dome Spa
What’s the best place to stay in Tyrol?
If you’re exploring the South region of Tyrol I would stay at the Aqua Dome in Längenfeld.
If you’re exploring the Northern region of Tyrol then you can’t go wrong with staying in the beautiful town of Ehrwald. This cute little town can be found at the foot of the Zugspitze and feels like you stepped right inside of a fairytale.
Other useful guides for your trip to Tyrol
7 Best Things To Do In The Tiroler Zugspitz Arena
Where To Stay in Tirol – Aqua Dome
9. Garmisch Partenkirchen, Germany
This has to be one of the most beautiful places in entire Germany and especially during Autumn you can find it at its most beautiful!
If you want you can easily combine a holiday at Garmisch Partenkirchen with one in Tyrol or Berchtesgaden.
How many days do you need to explore Garmisch Partenkirchen?
I would say 3-4 days are more than enough to explore this area and that way you can also combine it with another 3 days in the Northern part of Tyrol.
What are the top things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen?
- Take a walk around Eibsee in the morning
- Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria
- Go for a boat ride on the Riessersee
- Go hiking around Geroldsee
- Visit the top of the Zugspitze
What’s the best place to stay in Garmisch Partenkirchen?
When I visited this area for the first time I actually stayed in the little town Grainau in Germany. I stayed at the Romantik Alpenhotel Waxenstein twice now and love this hotel! It’s in typical German style and some of their rooms come with a terrace with a view over the Zugspitze. Honestly there is nothing better after a long day of hiking than coming back and enjoy a glass of wine and a slice of pizza on your terrace!
Other useful guides for your trip to Garmisch Partenkirchen
7 Best Things To Do In The Tiroler Zugspitz Arena
25 Beautiful Places To Visit In Germany
10. Etretat, France
The cliffs of Etretat in France are wold famous and this small harbour town is the perfect place to relax after a busy week.
How many days do you need to explore Etretat?
I would stay at least 2 nights so you can really enjoy the area! There’s nothing like watching the sunset or sunrise from the top of the cliffs!
What are the top things to do in Etretat?
- Explore the beautiful cliffs of Etretat
- Have a sunset dinner by the beach
- Visit Les Jardins d’Etretat
What’s the best place to stay in Etretat?
Etretat is a small coastal town but very popular among tourists so it’s full of charming little hotels!
11. Alpstein, Switzerland
This is another place in Switzerland that I know I’ll visit again in 2021! Alpstein, also known as the Appenzeller region is mostly known with the locals and is lesser touristic than other regions in Switzerland.
How many days do you need to explore Alpstein?
I would say you need at least 5 days to properly explore the area cause there are countless hikes to be done! And if you end up having some spare time you can visit the beautiful Liechtenstein which is only a few kilometers away.
What are the top things to do in Alpstein?
- Have lunch at the WildKirchli Hütte
- Hike to Saxer Lücke
- Watch the sunset at Schäfler
- Spend an afternoon at Seealpsee
What’s the best place to stay in Alpstein?
I stayed in the small town of Appenzell at Hotel Hecht. It’s nothing fancy but it’s a good base to have when you go out exploring and hiking every single day. Not to mention that it’s right at the start of the city centre of Appenzell and close to the restaurant ‘Little Italy’.
Other useful guides for your trip to Alpstein
The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary
Well, that’s it for now! But I do hope 2021 will be the year where we get to travel again and experience new places. I will probably stay in Europe cause there’s still so much left to see here and so many more beautiful places to discover!
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