The European destinations topping your travel list for 2026
Sponsored by Travel Department Europe has no shortage of extraordinary places to discover. Whether you’re drawn to grand landmarks, breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities or centuries worth of history, the continent is full of holiday destinations worth exploring.Continue reading for some of the best countries to visit in Europe and insider tips on what makes each one unmissable – featuring everything from ancient ruins to iconic landmarks, diverse cultures, rich histories and stunning landscapes.ItalyWith iconic cities, striking coastal scenery, sun-drenched countryside and picture-perfect hilltop towns, Italy has a way of leaving a lasting impression.Sorrento, Amalfi Coast Region (Shutterstock) Must-do experiences in Italy:Instantly recognisable and iconic for a reason, start with a cruise along the Amalfi Coast - a stunning 50-kilometer (34-mile) UNESCO World Heritage site in Southern Italy’s Campania region and take in its dramatic clifftop villages.Venture into “the heel” of Italy’s “boot” and discover the Trulli houses of Puglia, the whitewashed cone-roofed buildings that have defined this region for centuries.Head north to the Italian Lakes, Garda, Como and Maggiore, each with its own distinct character.And when in Rome, explore its historic treasures, from the iconic Colosseum to the famous Trevi Fountain. Or uncover the region of Tuscany, from the Renaissance streets of Florence to the medieval towers of San Gimignano.For something truly unforgettable visit the hilltop town of Taormina in Sicily, home to a remarkably preserved ancient Greek theatre and incredible views of Mount Etna.Back on the mainland explore the centuries old architecture of Venice by gondola, glide through its famous canals and take in the city from the water.SpainFrom Moorish monuments to sun-drenched beaches, Spain is a country of remarkable variety, rich history and enduring cultural appeal.Andalucia, Spain (Shutterstock) Must-do experiences in Spain:Discover Barcelona, featuring Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and his other iconic works throughout the city, as well as the historic Gothic Quarter.Onwards to Seville and admire the grandeur of Plaza de España, wander the historic streets, and experience its flamenco heritage. Book a trip to Granada and step inside the Alhambra, a Moorish palace and fortress complex reflecting centuries of history and craftsmanship.Uncover Madrid’s cultural highlights, from world-renowned art museums to the Royal Palace and its grand historic interiors.Travel to Tenerife – eternally popular with holidaymakers from Ireland – to marvel at Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, and discover the island’s volcanic landscapes and the UNESCO town of La Laguna.Mallorca also needs little introduction: explore the island’s capital of Palma, and ride the famous Orange Express through scenic mountain landscapes.FranceFrom historic fortresses to sweeping vineyard landscapes, France is a country of distinct regions, each with its own character, history and way of life.Cannes, France (Shutterstock) Must-do experiences in France:Relax along the French Riviera just like a movie-star, visiting coastal favourites such as Nice and Cannes. Explore Provence, a historic region in the south of France, and take in the medieval city of Avignon, the charming streets of Arles, and the Roman aqueduct at Pont du Gard.In central France, discover the castles of the Loire Valley, such as Château de Chambord, and explore the region’s rich royal history. Or, venture out to the western coast and witness Fort Boyard – the famous fortress renowned for its striking architecture and fascinating history.Journey off northwards to Mont Saint Michel in Normandy – an iconic abbey set on a tidal island, and wander its medieval streets. Take a Seine River cruise through scenic landscapes and historic towns, including Rouen whose cathedral famously inspired Monet.PortugalWith dramatic coastlines, historic cities and richly varied regions, Portugal is a country where there is always something new to discover, no matter how many times you visit.Estoril, Portugal (Shutterstock) Must-do experiences in Portugal:On the varied mainland, relax in the Algarve – a region of golden beaches, rugged coastal scenery and charming villages steeped in Moorish history. Discover Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital, with its hilltop neighbourhoods, historic tramways and vibrant cultural scene. While there, explore Sintra, home to a UNESCO-listed royal palace set among the wooded foothills of the Sintra Mountains.Book a Douro River cruise, winding through the vineyards and hills of northern Portugal. Visit Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, known for its rich religious heritage, including the iconic Sanctuary of Bom Jesus.For something wholly unique choose a holiday in Madeira, an island of dramatic scenery and lush gardens, with the colourful city of Funchal at its heart.MaltaCompact yet rich in history and scenery, Malta offers fortified cities, ancient sites and clear Mediterranean waters.Malta (Shutterstock) Must-do experiences in Malta:Easy to navigate and well-serviced by public transport, take a trip to Valletta, the island’s capital, with its grand Baroque architecture, historic streets and vibrant harbours. Take a harbour cruise around the Grand Harbour, enjoying views of Valletta’s bastions and the Three Cities.Visit Mdina by day or night. Fondly known as the “silent city,” this is a walled medieval town of cobbled streets and striking views over the island.Make sure to check out Gozo, Malta’s quieter island, with its rural landscapes and the Ġgantija Temples, among the oldest freestanding structures in the world.GreeceFrom ancient ruins to sun-drenched islands, Greece offers a blend of history, culture and natural beauty that has captivated travellers for centuries.Greece (Shutterstock) Must-do experiences in Greece:Athens, the nation’s capital, with its iconic Acropolis, ancient monuments, and vibrant neighbourhoods is of course a must-see. However make sure to delve a little deeper into the country’s fascinating antiquity with a visit to Meteora in northern Greece, where monasteries perch atop towering rock formations, creating a striking and unique landscape.Greece is also world famous for its islands. Visit Corfu, known for its lush greenery, Venetian architecture, and picturesque coastal villages. Discover Crete, Greece’s largest island, offering dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and traditional villages. Take a Greek Islands cruise, visiting popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos.See the best of Europe with Travel DepartmentWhether you’re drawn to historic cities, striking coastlines, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Europe offers a wealth of experiences to suit every traveller.Travel Department has been designing exceptional tours worldwide for 30 years. With hundreds of destinations to choose from, every trip includes flights, accommodation, transfers, and guided tours led by knowledgeable local guides.Check out their latest deals and offers on guided group holidays.
