Vacationing in Europe – Must-See Destinations and Travel Tips

Europe. Just saying the word kind of stirs something, doesn’t it? Maybe it’s the thought of sipping coffee under the shadow of the Eiffel Tower, or losing track of time in a Roman piazza. Or maybe it’s hiking in the Alps, dancing in a Barcelona bar, or sitting by a canal in Amsterdam watching the world pedal by. Wherever your imagination goes, one thing’s for sure—A European vacation has a way of grabbing hold of your senses and not letting go.

If you’re even thinking about planning a trip to Europe, this might be the nudge you need. I’ve pulled together some favourites (along with a few lesser-known gems) and mixed in some real-talk tips to help you actually enjoy it all—without needing a travel degree or three colour-coded spreadsheets.

Top Destinations To Visit In Europe

1. Paris, France – More Than A Pretty Postcard

Yeah, the Eiffel Tower’s cool, but it’s the little things that’ll stick with you in Europe—like the smell of fresh bread drifting out of a side-street boulangerie, or a sunset walk along the Seine that makes your heart do that weird fluttery thing.

Local tip? Skip the lines and take a picnic to the Champ de Mars. Grab some cheese, a baguette, maybe a cheap bottle of wine (no judgment), and just hang out. Bonus: the cherry blossoms around early spring are gorgeous—like something out of a movie.

Also, if you’re around the Canal Saint-Martin area, check out the floating bars and DJ boats that show up in the warmer months. You haven’t lived until you’ve danced on a barge with strangers from six different countries.

2. Rome, Italy – Chaos, Charm, And Carbonara

Rome doesn’t really do subtle. It’s loud, it’s ancient, it’s beautiful, and yes, it’s a little chaotic—but that’s part of the magic.

You’ll walk past ruins older than your entire country, grab a gelato, and then realise you’re standing on a thousand years of history like it’s no big deal. Trastevere is a great place to get lost in (on purpose). Tiny alleyways, ivy-covered walls, and more trattorias than you’ll know what to do with.

Also, if you ever get the chance, do the Vatican Museums at night. Way fewer people, way more vibes.

3. Barcelona, Spain – All Gaudí, All Good

Barcelona’s one of those cities that doesn’t really let you be a passive tourist. It pulls you in. You’ll be strolling through the Gothic Quarter and suddenly stumble onto a street parade. Or walk into a random bar and find yourself singing with locals at midnight.

Gaudí’s work is everywhere and it’s wild—Sagrada Familia looks like something out of a dream. But don’t just do the tourist trail. Hit up Poblenou. It’s a little more chill, full of creative spaces, and the beach there is way less packed than Barceloneta.

Hungry? Forget dinner. Go tapas-hopping. A few olives here, a little jamón there, maybe some calamari and vermouth—before you know it, you’ve had a feast.

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Bikes, Boats, And Laid-Back Vibes

Amsterdam is weird in the best way. It’s got this peaceful energy—maybe it’s the canals, maybe it’s the locals who somehow manage to ride bikes while holding umbrellas and texting.

Here’s the trick: don’t rush. Rent a bike, ride slow, stop often. Take a canal cruise at dusk—yes, it’s touristy, but also genuinely beautiful. And if you’re into quirky experiences, go check out the Floating Farm near the harbour. Yes, it’s a farm. On water. With goats. And fresh cheese.

5. Prague, Czech Republic – Pretty And Surprisingly Affordable

Prague is like walking into a fairy tale that also serves cheap beer. The architecture is bananas—in the best way. Every corner looks like a film set. Charles Bridge at sunrise? Absolutely worth the early alarm.

But here’s a little pro tip: skip the main castle crowds and head to Vyšehrad Fortress instead. You’ll get panoramic views without the stampede of tour groups. And when you’re done, grab a local lager and sit in the park. That’s Prague at its best.

Bonus Spots You Might Not Have Considered (But Totally Should)

• Lake Bled, Slovenia – A tiny island with a church in the middle of a glassy lake? Yes please. Rent a rowboat and make a wish when you ring the bell in Lake Bled.
• Porto, Portugal – Lisbon’s laid-back sibling. It’s colourful, full of soul, and known for the kind of wine that sneaks up on you. Also, it has the most Instagrammable bookstore on Earth (Livraria Lello).
• Tallinn, Estonia – Medieval meets modern. Walkable old town, friendly people, and digital cafés where techies sip lattes in castle courtyards. No joke.

Tips To Travel Smarter, Not Harder

• Don’t try to “do it all.” Europe will still be there next year. Pick a few spots, slow down, and really feel each one.
• Trains > planes (most of the time). They’re often faster door-to-door and way less stressful.
• Pack light. Like, really light. If you’re struggling to zip your suitcase before you leave, you’ve already lost.
• Download key apps. Omio (transport), Too Good To Go (cheap eats), and Google Translate for menus that make zero sense.
• Say yes. To the local who invites you for a drink. To that weird-looking pastry. To the detour. Often, the best stuff isn’t in your itinerary.

Embracing The European Vacation

Look, there’s no one “right” way to do Europe. You could spend two weeks in one city or hit five countries in five days (though… please don’t). What matters most is that you’re present. That you actually see the places, hear the languages, taste the food, and let yourself get swept up in it all.

Forget perfection. Travel is messy. Your feet will hurt. You’ll get lost. You might cry in a train station. But you’ll also laugh in a pub with people you’ve just met. You’ll have moments where the world feels big and beautiful and totally yours.

And honestly? That’s the good stuff.