So, I am turning 30 next week. I feel kind of like Rachel in Friends (if you know what I mean). In fact, it really is a milestone. However, I have mixed feelings about it. For instance, parts of my 20s were a blur but on the other hand, parts of them have changed my life completely. Firstly, I graduated and had my first job. Secondly, I made and lost some great friends. I also had numerous crushes before meeting my soulmate, and lastly, I realized my passion for traveling. As a matter of fact, I had only started to travel independently in my mid-20s, and since then there has been no turning back. Therefore, I wanted to jot down the top destinations in Europe that inspired me during my 20s.
In fact, travel really changed my life in more ways than one. So, this post is dedicated to every person of every age who has a passion to chase and the fact that it is never too late.
1. Paris, France
I am ready to be a cliché when it comes to Paris. As a matter of fact, the reason I started travelling was Paris. For instance, I saved up all my pocket money for a long time to plan a trip to Paris. Eventually, it was a part of my first solo trip. Since then, I have been there a few times.
To clarify, everything you know about Paris from books and movies is true. However, Paris has much more to it. Read about my first Paris adventure to find out why.
2. French Riviera, France
I cannot choose one city in the French Riviera that I did not absolutely love. For instance, I visited Eze, Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes during my solo trip and fell in love with everything. Truthfully, it is one of the prettiest and most romantic places in Europe.
Lavish palaces, ancient churches, and pretty promenades along the sea make up a beautiful vacation for any season. Therefore, it is on my list of the top destinations in Europe.
3. Algarve, Portugal
We stayed in the Algarve region for a week in our most pocket-friendly vacation ever. In fact, we learned about the places from the locals which showed us how awe-inspiring this place really is. For instance, every corner awaits you with something unexpected.
In addition, the food is delectable, and the beaches are drool-worthy. If I can ever get to live by the sea, I would choose Algarve in a heartbeat.
4. Bratislava, Slovakia
Initially, Bratislava was just going to be a rest stop during our 2 week-long trip through eastern Europe. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the place. So, we decided to stay there for a couple of days.
In fact, the streets and churches are some of the most interesting I have ever visited. For instance, you get to see artworks in the least expected places. Also, there are some grand castles. In addition, the food is to die for, and the people are extremely friendly.
5. Jungfrau, Switzerland
This was one of my recent discoveries. Although the Jungfrau is usually known for its famous peak, the Jungfraujoch. However, the Jungfrau constitutes an entire region. As a matter of fact, I think I explored all of it except for the peak which may sound a bit ironic. Find out why I skipped Jungfraujoch here.
Truthfully, the Jungfrau area will not keep you idle for a moment. For instance, it has some grand views, exotic peaks, gorgeous villages, cogwheel trains, and numerous cable cars. To sum up, it truly is one of the places I am lucky to have visited.
6. Naxos, Greece
Greece is simply wonderful. I love everything about Greek islands. However, if I have to choose a favourite, I will choose Naxos in a heartbeat. For instance, it has everything I dream of in a vacation. A rich history, cute little villages, wonderful people, cheap and delicious food, and miles and miles of sandy beaches.
As a matter of fact, I felt like I belonged on this extraordinary island and could go back time and again.
7. Rovaniemi, Finland
Lapland is known as “Winter Wonderland”. Incidentally, Rovaniemi is the most important city in Lapland. In fact, I fell in love with this place as soon as I entered my snow-covered Airbnb.
For instance, you could literally see miles and miles of snow in this place. Secondly, you get to see reindeer and husky dogs and ride with them if you want to. (I have learned it is a good exercise for the animals to do this and they actually enjoy it. So, you might as well!) Thirdly, you get to visit the official headquarter of Santa Claus and meet him in person. And lastly, did I tell you about the Northern Lights? They appear in the night sky in winter and it is absolutely magical.
8. Piran, Slovenia
I read about Piran in a book whose name I cannot remember. But it has been on my bucket list for the longest time. However, I was there only for a day and it certainly was not enough. For instance, the streets, the bell tower, and the sea bring out an authentic charm that has not been spoilt over time.
In addition, the town square boasts the statue of Tartini playing the violin instead of a knight on a horseback like the rest of Europe. So it will always be on my list for the top destinations in Europe
9. Nazaré, Portugal
I saw a documentary about surfing in the biggest waves in the world and came across Nazaré. Therefore, it was love at first sight and certainly, went immediately on my bucket list.
To clarify, Nazaré has 2 beaches on either side of a tall cliff. One is a family-friendly beach with lots of sunshine and the other is a mystical beach with fog throughout the year. In fact, this cliff affects the weather and creates big waves. In conclusion, it was truly an unreal experience to stand in the lighthouse and observe the waves.
10. Zermatt, Switzerland
I was told Zermatt is a touristic trap by many. However, when I visited this paradise I was literally blown away. For instance, I have witnessed some of the most scenic mountain views here. In addition, there are unlimited activities you can do in the mountains with thrilling cable cars and cogwheel trains.
Therefore, Zermatt is a must-on your list of the top destinations in Europe.
11. Berlin, Germany
Berlin has a very sad history and you can see it in every part of it. In fact, there is a lingering melancholy about this place that sticks for a long time. Besides, it hosts some of the grandest structures in the whole of Germany including the Brandenberg Gate and the Reichstag Building. Also, the Berlin Wall is now an art lovers’ paradise.
12. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is as pretty as its name. As a matter of fact, it hosts some of the best museums in Europe, grand cathedrals, an amusement park, a river view to die for, and an ever-bustling street. To sum up,you will fall for it every time.
It will always be on my list of top destinations in Europe.
13. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Everyone who visits Amsterdam always returns because it is never enough. In fact, Amsterdam is filled with energy 24 hours of the day. Surprisingly, you will see more cycles than any other transport in the city.
In addition, Amsterdam has some magnificent museums, a series of pretty canals, a red-light district, and numerous coffee shops. Therefore, Amsterdam will entertain you at any time of the year.
14. Bruges and Ghent, Belgium
Bruges and Ghent are just a few miles from each other. However, both of them are astonishing and unique in their own ways. In fact, I visited them both in a day and could not decide which one I liked more. Both are dreamy destinations. Therefore, I would love to go back and walk on the cobblestoned alleys again.
15. Rome, Italy
If Paris has a part of my heart, Rome has the other part. As a matter of fact, I love Rome so much that I keep going back. For instance, the city is enriched with history, art, and culture. In addition, the walks, the food, and the wine will make you fall for it time and again.
Rome should be on your list of top destinations to visit in Europe.
16. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is one of the most underrated places in Europe. For instance, the city is charming with its quaint cafes and pretty bridges across canals. In addition, there is a huge scope for some amazing day trips like Lake Bled and Vintgar Gorge from the city.
It is also an important part of my list of top destinations in Europe.
17. Venice, Italy
I think Venice is on everyone’s bucket list. Of course, it is one of the most photogenic cities in the world. I loved every part of it. To clarify, the canals, the narrow streets, the churches, and the souvenirs will put a smile on your face.
I was overwhelmed to visit Venice during a carnival because it was extremely crowded. However, I got to experience the real Venice on a second trip. It was truly magical.
18. Pisa, Italy
Everyone visits Pisa for the Leaning Tower but there is so much more to Pisa. However, I go back to Pisa time and again just to enjoy the city. For instance, the streets are always bustling with energy and there are innumerable pretty churches. The riverside is my favorite and I always make sure to witness all my sunsets by the river.
In addition, the bars are filled with energy and great music throughout the night. Also, the people are so friendly you would never want to leave.
19. Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria is a magical getaway in Germany. It is truly one of the prettiest places I have ever visited. To elaborate, beautiful villages, lush meadows, grand cathedrals, and some of the most beautiful castles make up this gem of a place called Bavaria.
Therefore, it has to be on your list of top destinations in Europe.
20. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has one of the most scenic castles in Europe with an extraordinary town square. In fact, it has historical structures everywhere you go including some of the prettiest bridges. Additionally, it has a very happening nightlife and is one of the coolest places to visit.
21. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is overhyped but it is so worth it. For instance, imagine dreamy views of the sea from a volcanic caldera decorated with an array of blue and white buildings. To sum up, this is a perfect destination and I loved everything about it. In fact, I cannot wait to walk in the zigzagged cobblestoned alleys in Oia and enjoy a magnificent sunset.
22. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest was hugely affected by the second world war but it has not brought down its spirit a bit. As a matter of fact, the city boasts some of the grandest bridges and castles in Europe. Also, the riverside is spectacular in the night time with its bright lights and street musicians.
23. Athens, Greece
Athens is a wonderland for Greek Mythology enthusiasts because it is home to the most famous ancient monuments. For instance, the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, are all located in Athens. Truthfully, my trip to Athens was one of the most rewarding trips ever.
Athens easily is a part of my list of top destinations in Europe.
24. Lisbon, Portugal
If you love winding streets, quirky tram rides and mouth-watering food, you will love Lisbon. It is a city with many mysteries. In addition, it has some amazing views of the sea, a massive square, an old town, several grand churches, and many other attractions that will keep you busy.
25. Verona, Italy
The first trip I ever made in Europe was to Verona. I am absolutely in love with the place because of its many charms. For instance, the castle, the river view, Juliet’s balcony, the Arena, and the squares will transport you to another time.
Additionally, there are bustling bars and restaurants along with art exhibitions to keep you busy throughout the day.
26. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a very lively city with almost too much to explore. It has a flourishing port, innumerable grand buildings by Gaudi himself, a historic football stadium and several museums. To be honest, one trip is simply not enough to see it all.
27. Sóller, Spain
Sóller is a little port town in the island of Mallorca. It is one of the most authentic Spanish locality that you get to visit in a vintage train and tram. I was absolutely blown over by the charm of this place.
28. Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is extremely pretty and extremely expensive, quite the contrary thing to say. Truthfully, I burnt a huge hole in my pocket on my trip to Mykonos but it was so worth it.
For instance, Mykonos is a picture-perfect city with pretty white houses, exotic windmills, and sea views to die for. In fact, the cobblestoned streets are meant for people to get lost in the most beautiful way possible.
29. Porto, Portugal
Porto is the city of bridges, port wine, and a spectacular Riviera. Truthfully, I liked the essence of Porto. To clarify, it was simple yet special in its own way. For instance, Porto is a place where I saw a simple railway station ornamented to make it look like a piece of art.
30. Milan, Italy
Milan is the first foreign place I called home. As a matter of fact, I loved each and everything about living there. Recently, I visited Milan as a tourist and got equally charmed. To clarify, the gelatos, Duomo, shopping streets, museums, cafes, bars, and the people will always have my heart.
