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Europe in 2025 offers a plethora of places to visit in Europe. Some of these are classic cities like Paris and Rome that clearly stand out as the popular picks for travellers, while some are hidden gems like Bilbao and Sarajevo that can add another layer of charm to your holiday.
Famous Cities- Paris, Rome, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam.
Hidden Gems- Český Krumlov, Douro Valley, Gjirokastër, Bilbao, Sarajevo.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Europe 2025: People often name Europe as the dream destination for travelers, and there are several reasons for it. Let’s take, for example, the top sights in Europe such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris on one hand, and the lesser-known towns tucked away in Portugal or Albania- any one would get starry eyed about thinking of visiting these places. Not just that, this destination also offers travellers an opportunity to dive into the powerful history, stunning landscapes, and rich culture of one of the most premium travel destinations in the world! Whether a dream destination or not, Europe’s charm can truly overwhelm any travel enthusiast.
Many travelers ask which is the best country to visit in Europe? Or, what is the prettiest place to visit in Europe? The truth is, it depends on what you value most and where your interest lies. Be it a family trip to Europe or a romantic honeymoon getaway, this place is perfect for planning a trip of your choice. And for that, Thrillophilia has curated this list of the Top 10 places to visit in Europe to help you level up your Europe tour a little! We have divided them into famous cities, hidden gems, and emerging picks, so you can plan the perfect 2025 Europe journey!
Top 10 Places to Visit In Europe 2025
Popular Cities in Europe
1. Paris, France
Paris remains one of the 5 most visited countries in Europe, thanks to France’s elegant atmosphere. Its historic streets smelling with fresh baked croissants and the vibrant beaches of the French Riviera make it a must-visit destination on your Europe trip. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame rank among the top sights in Europe, however, you can also explore the Luxembourg Palace and the Elysee Palace to connect better with the city.
Also, don’t forget to try the very exciting Seine river cruise here, which takes you along the UNESCO- listed heritage site of Seine river banks and offers a unique perspective of the city. Consider spending at least two days here if you wish to cover the most iconic parts of this city.
2. Rome, Italy
Rome is where ancient history meets modern energy, and the land speaks of a rich heritage that shaped human civilization. The Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain are must-see attractions, while a day excursion to Vatican City is a must-do activity while in Rome.
You can also explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, try some lip-smacking pizza and wine at a Pizzeria (or learn how to cook one in an Italian cooking class), and enjoy the exhilarating nightlife at Piazza Navona. Ideally, allow four days to experience both monuments and food options, and if you have one evening to spare, take a night tour of the Colosseum (thank us later)!
Also Read: Europe in November
3. London, UK
One of the best European cities to visit for first timers, London combines the dignity of royal heritage with the flexibility of modern conveniences. World-famous places in Europe like the Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and Tower Bridge define the character of this city, however, this destination features some exciting surprises at every nook and corner.
Travellers can take a cruise along the River Thames or watch a theatre performance at the iconic Shakespeare Globe. If you wish to explore all the hotspots of the city all at once, you can also take the hop-on-hop of buses around London. A long drive from this city can take you to the famous Stonehenge as well, which stands as one of the 7 wonders of the world!
Also Read: Monuments in Europe
4. Barcelona, Spain
Standing tall as one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe, Barcelona dazzles with marvellous architectures like Park Guell, Casa Batllo, and Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia. If you are a cooking enthusiast, the enchanting aroma of spices at the Boqueria food market can leave you mesmerised, and if you are interested in football, what better place to hang out than the Camp Nou! You can also try hot air ballooning in Barcelona if you wish to have an adventure of a lifetime here!
This destination is perfect for trips with friends who want to explore the breathtaking beaches along the Atlantic Ocean and witness the happening nightlife, all in one place. While here, don’t forget to munch on some Tapas and dance till you drop, because what’s a Spanish holiday without some music and high spirits?
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
With the heart-warming charm of its canals, cycling culture, and world-class museums, Amsterdam is one of the most unique places to visit in Europe. While on your holiday to Amsterdam, you can do much beyond taking a boat ride through the Canals and exploring the neighborhoods like Centrum and Jordaan. You can visit Zanse schans to watch the picturesque windmills and get a hands-on workshop on making clogs, or you can take a trip around the famous tulip gardens of Keukenhof.
Apart from these, you can go for a wine and cheese tasting tour and also visit Anne Frank’s house. Generally two to three days are sufficient to explore Amsterdam, but in reality, you can never ever get enough of this beautiful place in Europe.
Hidden Gems Of Europe
6. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
For travelers searching for unique places to visit in Europe, Český Krumlov delivers just the right amount of excitement. This medieval town exhibits a fairy-tale charm without the overwhelming crowds of Prague. Its Český Krumlov Castle complex and riverside views of the Vltava make it one of the prettiest places to visit in Europe in 2025.
7. Douro Valley, Portugal
Being the perfect destination for slow travel, the Douro Valley is where dreamy vineyards meet Rop Duero river cruises. This destination in Portugal is quickly rising as one of the best places to visit in Europe because it offers affordability, scenery, and culture. You can visit here during the cooler months to enjoy the wine tours without heavy tourist traffic, making it a strong choice for places to visit in Europe with friends.
Also Read: Europe in February
8. Gjirokastër, Albania
Albania is home to a secret spot in Europe that is waiting to be explored- Gjirokastër. It is a UNESCO World Heritage town that offers the old-world vibes of cobblestone streets and fortress views along with the scope to experience the true cultural heritage of Europe. For those asking which are the hidden gems of Europe, this Balkan gem tops the list and adding it in your itinerary can enrich your trip at a fraction of the cost.
9. Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao has transformed into one of the cultural capitals of Spain,from being an industrial hub. The Guggenheim Museum here anchors the city, while tapas bars and coastal escapes complete the experience. Bilbao proudly stands as that city in Europe that offers the best mix of history and modern culture.
10. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Named by National Geographic as the world’s top destination for 2025, Sarajevo is where history echoes at every corner. Ottoman mosques and Austro-Hungarian facades act as reminders of the city’s resilience after WW1, creating a powerful blend of past and present. Travellers can stroll through Baščaršija, the old bazaar, shop for traditional coffee and local crafts, then visit the Latin Bridge, where a single event once altered world history. For travelers seeking something new and lesser-explored, Sarajevo ranks amongst the best unique places to visit in Europe in 2025.
Also Read: Europe in December
Emerging Destinations In Europe to Keep an Eye On!
Alongside these ten, a few emerging spots are gaining attention in 2025. Santorini in Greece continues to trend as a honeymooners’ favorite, while Riga in Latvia attracts travelers with its distinct art nouveau charm. For luxury seekers, Monaco combines the glamorous vibes of the Mediterranean sustainable tourism efforts.
Some of the other names are- Braga in Portugal, Matera in Italy, Sofia in Bulgaria, and Ljubljana in Slovenia. These names are set to join the 25 most beautiful destinations in Europe, offering new experiences to try out beyond the classics.
Europe Trip From India: How to Plan Your Holiday in 2025
From India: Top places to visit in Europe from India are Paris, Rome, and London, since they serve as excellent entry points to this continent with direct flights and strong Indian communities.
Seasonal Factors: Seasonal factors that travellers should consider when planning a Europe trip are as follows-
- Aim for spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) when weather is pleasant and crowds thinner. To decide on the best places to visit in Europe by month, consider skiing in Switzerland during winter, visiting the tulip gardens in the Netherlands in April, or exploring the Mediterranean coasts in summer.
- Trip Duration: A balanced Europe itinerary usually allows three to five days in major cities and two to three in smaller towns.
Also Read: Things To Do In Europe
Europe Tour Packages From Popular Cities
Other Europe Tours
Conclusion
So, if you have gone through the entire list, we would like to ask you-
What’s been your favourite travel destination in Europe?
For many, it may be Paris or Rome; for others, it may be a hidden spot like Gjirokastër or Sarajevo. Well, Europe in 2025 is about choice, between iconic sights and soulful detours. So, whether you’re planning to visit the top places in Europe with friends, seeking to explore the best European cities for first-timers, or exploring the prettiest places in Europe, this continent offers a journey for every kind of traveler.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Europe FAQs
Q1. What are the safest places to visit in Europe 2025?
Ans- According to the latest reports, Iceland, Switzerland, Ireland, Portugal, and Austria are some of the safest places to visit in Europe.
Q2. What are the best European cities to visit for first-timers?
Ans- London, Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, and Barcelona are some of the best European cities to visit for first-timers. Navigating around these cities is relatively easier, and the people are also traveler-friendly.
Q3. What do you need to travel to Europe?
Ans- You need the following documents and proofs to travel to Europe –
- Valid passport
- ETIAS travel authorization
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of funds
- Return Ticket
- Travel Insurance
Q4. What is the 2025 European capital of smart tourism?
Ans- Torino in Italy has been awarded the 2025 European Capital of Smart Tourism.
Q5. Which is the best time to visit Europe?
Ans- The best time to visit Europe is during the spring (March to May) and autumn seasons (September to October) for lower crowds and reasonable prices. However, summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season when you can witness various festivals and concerts, alongside enjoying warm, sunny weather. If you are looking forward to witnessing some snowy landscapes, consider visiting during the winter season (November to February).