Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Europe in 2026

The Algarve

Short haul sunshine doesn’t get much easier than a trip to the Algarve, with its endless stretches of golden sands just begging you to sunbathe on them. There’s so much to say about the Algarve, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best places to visit in Europe, but also quite hard choosing where to start on telling you why you should visit this beautiful region of southern Portugal!

I suppose we’ll start with the question of who is the Algarve a great holiday destination for? Well, the answer may shock you… everyone! A great choice for families, there’s plenty of activities to be found throughout Albufeira, Vilamoura and all the other resorts in the region – such as the Aquashow and Aqualand waterparks, perfect for when you need to find something to keep the younger members of your party entertained. 

For couples, there’s plenty of romantic spots ready to be found, especially towards the scenic resort of Carvoeiro. Indulge in the gorgeous, freshly caught seafood at a local restaurant and have a drink or two at some authentic bars, you know you both deserve it!

Be sure to visit the Algarve during the summer and you’ll be treated to sizzling 30°c temperatures, but be prepared for crowds of likeminded tourists enjoying their time on Portugal’s sunny south coast. For a little less hectic time, it’s well worth visiting in September, where you’ll have just as much fun in the sun but avoid the main brunt of the school holiday crowds. Just a 3-hour flight from the UK, the Algarve is also another one of the best places to visit in Europe for a bit of short haul sunshine.

Costa Blanca

Spain is a staple in the tourism world, and for good reason, but when it comes to finding one of the best places in Europe, look no further than the sunny Costa Blanca. Literally translating to “White Coast”, you won’t win any prizes for guessing what most travellers flock to this region for. With sparkling, azure waters and miles upon miles of fine white sand, you really can’t go wrong with a week away in Calpe, Finestrat, or any of the other resorts that line the coast.

Embrace the amazing coastal culture and history of Costa Blanca by visiting the impressive churches and castles, such as Castillo de Santa Barbara, visit the breathtaking Guadalest Valley for its stunning reservoir views or have an afternoon full of fun at the many water parks in the region – there’s really something for everyone here.

Now, beyond a good afternoon siesta, there’s one thing that truly sets Spain apart as one of the best places to travel to in Europe, and that is (of course) the food. Small plates of everything from patatas bravas to king prawns, dos cervezas por favor, y uno vino? El bosh! Enjoy a trip to the local restaurants and indulge in expertly cooked fresh seafood, pair it perfectly with a locally made wine and let the evening flow with music and plenty of memories made – almost sounds too dreamy, right?

Menorca

The ‘Jewel of the Balearics’ is Menorca’s nickname, and with a holiday here, it’s really not hard to see why. The smaller island of the two but densely packed with things to do and places to visit, Menorca lies just a small boat ride from the north eastern shores of Mallorca, making it the furthest east island in the Balearics peninsula. But what sets Menorca apart from the rest? Well, its incredible beaches definitely help!

With a mix of rugged coves and sparkling white sand, enjoy admiring the natural beauty of Menorca’s gorgeous coastline whilst sunbathing on any of the beautiful beaches. Whether you’re after a chilled out hour or two of sunbathing with a book in hand, or you fancy getting your blood pumping with a spot of water sports, there’s always a beach nearby that will have exactly what you’re looking for.

Son Bou has to be one of the best places to visit in Europe, with its soft sand stretching out over a kilometre down the coast and with plenty of sunbeds on offer, alongside a large carpark just over the road, ideal for families looking to enjoy a day out by the sea.

And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Menorca – it’s packed with must-see experiences for your trip.

Sardinia

The second largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia, is one of the most beautiful beach destinations you can find, with endless stretches of sand ready for you to discover. Ranging from white to pale pink, if picturesque spots by the Mediterranean Ocean are what you’re after, Sardinia is easily one of the most cool places to visit in Europe.

With 50% of the island covered by forested areas, there’s so much natural beauty to look out on whilst you’re enjoying a holiday in Sardinia. Venture through woods and forests to the closest beach from your Sardinia villa or hotel and enjoy stumbling upon secret coves and hidden bays away from the crowds and hustle and bustle of busier beaches.

Perfect for swimming, be sure to visit Spiaggia Rena Bianca, where you’ll find clear and shallow waters, ideal for wading out and enjoying the warm water on a hot summer’s day. With just under a kilometre of sand to claim for your own, you’ll never struggle to find a place to work on your tan on a warm afternoon. If you’re after the best places to visit in Europe for a beach holiday, make sure Sardinia is towards the top of your travel list.

Kotor

Sticking around the Adriatic, Kotor is one of the coolest destinations to visit in Europe. Just below Croatia you’ll find Montenegro, and if you keep following the coast you’ll eventually stumble upon the Bay of Kotor and the famous fortified town itself. Surrounded by Venetian fortifications, this beautiful town has become recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th centuries – similarly to Dubrovnik which lies on the same coast but north.

There’s plenty to see around Kotor, including St Sryphon’s Cathedral which was constructed in 1166 – one of only two Roman Catholic cathedrals in all of Montenegro. Also hosting one of the most important festivals in southeast Europe, the Kotor Festival of Theatre for Children, the local community of the town volunteer every year to partake and help with performances by artists of over 30 countries and from 5 different continents – be sure to visit during the May and June for a chance to see these phenomenal acts and displays of artistry.

Berat

As we keep heading south, the hidden gems don’t stop, with Albania being our next stop for one of the best destinations to visit in Europe. Berat is a small city that sits on the Osum river in central Albrania, known for its Ottoman houses that are perched on a hillside. With an ancient stone castle dating back to the 13th century, the history of this charming city will jump out at you as soon as you see the historic stone fortifications that the iconic houses are built upon.

Officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 2008, the unique architecture paints a picture of the influences that have shaped Berat into the city it has become, from the Byzantine Empire to the Ottomans. Be sure to visit the Church of St Mary of Blachernae, a Byzantine Era church constructed in the 13th century but with roots dating all the way back to 400AD, and you’ll discover 16th century mural paintings created by Nicholas Onufri, the son of Onouphrios Argytes, one of Albania’s most important post medieval painters.

Not enough history for you? The impressive Berat Castle is built atop a rocky hill right on the bank of the river Osum. Burnt down by the Romans and rebuilt during the Byzantine Era, if you visit today, you can see the ruins of the churches and mosque that lay within the wall, a great insight into how religion has made Berat the city that it is.