List: Top 20 European destinations to visit in 2025
No. 14 will surprise you: Here's our list of the must-see Eurotour spots
Get ready for a whirlwind tour of Europe’s hottest spots in 2025 — and trust us, No. 14 on the list will totally blow your mind.
Monaco has clinched the crown as Europe’s top destination, dazzling travellers with its killer combo of luxury, culture, and sustainability, as per Forbes.
This sun-soaked gem on the French Riviera isn’t just about glitzy casinos and superyachts; it’s a leader in eco-friendly initiatives, Michelin-starred dining, world-class events, and wellness escapes.
Voted “Must-See European Destination 2025” by over 1.2 million travellers worldwide, Monaco is the ultimate playground for those who crave opulence with a conscience.
Meanwhile, the Travel Department spots a Croatian treasure: Dubrovnik — often dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic”.
This mediaeval marvel is famous for its imposing city walls and pristine seaside charm.
History buffs and beach lovers alike flock here to soak in the architecture and sparkling Adriatic waters.
City vibes
If city vibes are your thing, don’t miss the stalwarts: Paris, Rome, London, and Venice.
These classic cultural capitals never go out of style, boasting iconic landmarks, rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and buzzing arts scenes, all expected to shine even brighter in 2025.
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, the ethereal Giant’s Causeway in Ireland offers breathtaking basalt columns and lush landscapes, while Mljet Island in Croatia provides tranquil saltwater lakes and unspoiled beaches that are perfect for peaceful escapes.
Hidden gem
Now, brace yourself — the surprising star of the list: Dhërmi, Albania.
This hidden gem on the Albanian Riviera promises crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning cliffs, and a laid-back atmosphere far from the tourist throngs.
Its traditional hillside village charm and fresh seafood scene make it a fantastic find for travelers seeking authenticity and serenity off Europe’s beaten path.
This blend of beloved favourites and rising stars gives every traveller a perfect pick — a mix of vibrant cities, historical grandeur, beachside relaxation, and a secret getaway.
Ready to book your 2025 European adventure? The continent awaits:
| Rank | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Monaco | Officially Best Destination in Europe 2025: Monaco is a sovereign city-state and microstate located on the French Riviera, known for its luxurious resorts, and high-end lifestyle. |
| 2 | Riga, Latvia | This “Paris of the North”, is known for its lively culinary and cultural scene. This vibrant capital is a historical and cultural hub situated on the Daugava River where it meets the Baltic Sea. |
| 3 | Budapest, Hungary | This charming city is bisected by the River Danube. Its 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district. A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times onward. |
| 4 | Madrid, Spain | Madrid boasts elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks such as the Buen Retiro. It’s renowned for its rich repositories of European art, including the Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velázquez and other Spanish masters. |
| 5 | Namur, Belgium | Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it features a historic Citadel fortress, charming old town, museums, and lively squares, blending rich history with modern vibrancy. |
| 6 | Amsterdam, Netherlands | The Dutch capital is known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades, legacies of the city’s 17th-century Golden Age. Its Museum District houses the Van Gogh Museum, works by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum, and modern art at the Stedelijk. |
| 7 | Olhão, Portugal | Traditional charm, vibrant markets, Ria Formosa Natural Park, culinary delights. Olhão is a charming fishing town in the Algarve, famed for its bustling waterfront market perched over the Ria Formosa lagoon. Explore the historic narrow streets, colourful murals, and peaceful gardens like Pescador Olhanense. |
| 8 | Mljet Island, Croatia | Mljet is the southernmost and easternmost of the larger Adriatic islands of the Dalmatia region of Croatia. In the west of the island is the Mljet National Park – with serene landscape, saltwater lakes, pristine beaches perfect for water sports. |
| 9 | Lisbon, Portugal | This vibrant city offers visitors historical charm, sunny weather, and stunning landscapes. Situated on the banks of the Tagus River and built on seven hills, it offers breathtaking views and a unique blend of old and new. |
| 10 | Antipaxos, Greece | Untouched beaches with turquoise waters, secluded and enchanting island getaway. |
| 11 | Istanbul, Turkey | A dazzling city where East meets West, boasting landmarks like the majestic Hagia Sophia, the stunning Blue Mosque with its six minarets, and the opulent Topkapi Palace. |
| 12 | Paris, France | Its 19th-century cityscape is crisscrossed by wide boulevards and the River Seine. Beyond such landmarks as the Eiffel Tower and the 12th-century, Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral, the city is known for its cafe culture and designer boutiques. |
| 13 | Rome, Italy | Regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful ancient cities, and contains vast amounts of priceless works of art, palaces, museums, parks, churches, gardens, basilicas, temples, villas, piazzas, theatres, and other venues. |
| 14 | Dhërmi, Albania | Hidden gem on the Albanian Riviera with azure waters, breathtaking beaches, traditional hillside village, and fresh seafood delights. This lesser-known destination makes a surprising entry and promises tranquility and authentic charm. |
| 15 | Dubrovnik, Croatia | See the spectacularly preserved 16th century city, known for its defensive walls and red-roofed buildings. Experience the allure of Croatia’s Adriatic Coast, an incredibly beautiful region, located between the Gulf of Trieste and the Bay of Kvarner. |
| 16 | London | London dazzles visitors year-round with a mix of historic grandeur, modern marvels, and vibrant street life. Top attractions include: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and the Buckingham Palace. Unforgettable experiences include Thames River Cruises, London’s Parks, the Camden Market, Brick Lane & Shoreditch. |
| 17 | Athens | Athens, the capital and one of the world’s oldest cities holds a multitude of ancient treasures and ruins ripe for exploration, such as the Acropolis and its iconic Parthenon. If offers a wonderful combination of ancient history and picturesque landscapes. |
| 18 | Porto, Portugal | Explore the vibrant streets of Porto, where old-world elegance meets cutting-edge innovation. Stroll along the Douro River, admire the iconic bridges, and take in the city’s neighbourhoods. Renowned for its spectacular azulejo-tiled façades and buzzing culinary scene Porto is a must-see for travellers seeking both culture and charm year-round. |
| 19 | Prague, Czech Republic | Prague enchants visitors with its blend of mediaeval history, striking architecture, and vibrant culture, offering a remarkable array of attractions: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, The Powder Tower, Vyšehrad historic fortress, and Vltava River views. |
| 20 | Barcelona, Spain | Barcelona, the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, is known for its art and architecture. The Sagrada Família church and other modernist landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí dot the city. Museu Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró feature modern art by their namesakes. |
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
