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Best Places to Visit in Southern Europe

Italy balances world-famous cities with hidden countryside escapes. Rome, Florence, and Venice are cultural powerhouses, each boasting major landmarks, museums, and a rich architectural heritage. The Amalfi Coast’s clifftop roads lead to towns like Positano and Ravello, while the Dolomites in the north offer mountain hiking and winter sports.

Sicily and Sardinia present diverse island landscapes and ancient ruins. Tuscany’s vineyards and villages give insight into Italian rural life. From Renaissance art to Roman engineering and regional cuisines, Italy’s travel experiences are unmatched. It ranks as one of the most visited Southern Europe countries, offering something for every type of traveller.

Croatia draws travellers to its Adriatic coastline, where medieval cities meet island-dotted waters. Dubrovnik’s fortified Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its historic ramparts and Baroque buildings. Inland, Plitvice Lakes National Park features turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and wooden trails. 

Split is home to Diocletian’s Palace, which is a Roman structure now filled with shops and cafes. The islands of Hvar, Bra?, and Kor?ula offer quiet beaches, wine estates, and scenic harbours. Croatia’s combination of nature, history, and seaside charm makes it one of the most captivating countries in Southern Europe for a relaxed yet culture-rich experience.

Portugal’s Atlantic coastline is home to golden beaches, fortified cities, and vineyard-covered hills. Lisbon blends history with contemporary life, where yellow trams pass azulejo-tiled buildings. Porto’s riverside quarters and port wine cellars offer a deeper look into the country’s trade legacy.

The Algarve delivers sun-soaked cliffs and caves, while Sintra’s whimsical palaces sit in forested hills. Inland regions like the Alentejo are perfect for countryside escapes. Whether walking along historic city lanes or sampling fresh seafood near the ocean, Portugal’s variety makes it one of the most flexible and welcoming southern countries of Europe for independent or family travel.

Southern France offers a mix of rural charm and coastal elegance. The French Riviera includes towns like Nice, Cannes, and Antibes, each with Mediterranean beaches, markets, and seafront promenades. Inland, Provence showcases lavender fields, vineyards, and Roman-era sites like the Pont du Gard. 

Avignon and Aix-en-Provence reflect France’s religious and artistic heritage, while Marseille delivers port-city energy and multicultural cuisine. The region appeals to those seeking both culture and relaxation, with activities ranging from wine tasting to hiking in the Luberon. Its varied experiences and mild climate make it a favourite among southern Europe countries for refined, slower-paced holidays.

Slovenia surprises many with its compact size and incredible natural variety. Lake Bled is iconic, with a hilltop castle and a church-topped island reachable by rowboat. The capital Ljubljana features elegant bridges and architecture by Jože Ple?nik, offering riverside cafés and walkable charm. 

The Julian Alps provide skiing and hiking, while the Škocjan Caves display dramatic underground formations. On the coast, Piran reflects Venetian influence with sea views and old-town alleys. Slovenia’s eco-conscious tourism and outdoor appeal give it a unique position among countries in Southern Europe, especially for travellers who enjoy scenic nature with cultural depth.

Albania blends ancient ruins, Adriatic beaches, and rugged mountain landscapes. The Albanian Riviera is dotted with beach towns like Himarë and Ksamil, known for clear waters and unspoiled coves. Inland, Berat and Gjirokastër feature Ottoman-era stone houses and castles perched above valleys. The capital Tirana is undergoing modernisation, with vibrant public spaces and evolving art scenes. 

Northwards, the Accursed Mountains offer dramatic trails and remote hospitality. Albania remains budget-friendly and largely uncrowded, making it a rewarding destination within the broader group of southern European countries for travellers seeking history, adventure, and lesser-known cultural experiences.

Romania’s southern and central regions combine Gothic castles, historic towns, and natural diversity. Places to Visit in Romania include the cobbled streets of Transylvania in cities like Bra?ov and Sighi?oara, as well as Bran Castle, which is famous for its Dracula lore. The Carpathian Mountains offer hiking and skiing, while the Danube Delta supports rare bird species in a vast wetland habitat. Bucharest, the capital, contrasts grand buildings with Soviet-style blocks and a lively arts scene.

Local traditions, wooden churches, and village markets remain strong, offering cultural richness in everyday settings. Romania stands out among the lesser-known southern countries of Europe, especially for those interested in heritage and landscapes.

Montenegro delivers drama through its geography, with steep peaks meeting the Adriatic Sea in places like the Bay of Kotor, where medieval towns nestle against mountain backdrops. Kotor’s walled Old Town and hilltop fortress provide history and panoramic views, while Budva adds beaches and nightlife. 

Durmitor National Park offers hiking and rafting opportunities through alpine lakes and canyons. Sveti Stefan offers luxury island resorts, while Lake Skadar is perfect for birdwatching and slow travel. Montenegro’s compactness lets travellers explore mountains, coast, and heritage towns in a single trip, making it one of the most scenic south Europe countries to explore with ease.

Serbia blends history, culture, and dynamic city life. Belgrade sits at the meeting point of the Danube and Sava rivers, with landmarks like Kalemegdan Fortress and a vibrant nightlife scene in areas like Skadarlija. Novi Sad, home to the EXIT Festival, offers art and music within the Petrovaradin Fortress. Outside the cities, Orthodox monasteries and national parks showcase Serbia’s spiritual and natural heritage. Food culture revolves around grilled meats, fresh bread, and regional wines. Serbia remains affordable and welcoming, with fewer crowds and authentic experiences, making it one of the most underrated southern Europe countries for cultural exploration.

Romania’s southern and central regions combine Gothic castles, historic towns, and natural diversity. Places to Visit in Romania include the cobbled streets of Transylvania in cities like Bra?ov and Sighi?oara, as well as Bran Castle, which is famous for its Dracula lore. The Carpathian Mountains offer hiking and skiing, while the Danube Delta supports rare bird species in a vast wetland habitat. Bucharest, the capital, contrasts grand buildings with Soviet-style blocks and a lively arts scene.

Local traditions, wooden churches, and village markets remain strong, offering cultural richness in everyday settings. Romania stands out among the lesser-known southern countries of Europe, especially for those interested in heritage and landscapes.

North Macedonia is known for its tranquil lake settings and historical depth. Lake Ohrid is the country’s crown jewel, home to centuries-old churches, cobblestone alleys, and Byzantine architecture. The capital, Skopje, offers a blend of old Ottoman bazaars, neoclassical facades, and modern sculptures.

Mountain lovers can head to Mavrovo or Pelister National Parks it is also one of the best places to visit in Macedonia for hiking and wildlife. Food and wine tourism are emerging here, with family-run wineries and traditional taverns. Its affordability and layered cultural identity attract travellers seeking something off the beaten path. It is one of the lesser-known but rewarding Europe southern countries for immersive, quiet getaways.

Moldova offers a unique blend of rural charm, wine heritage, and historic landmarks. The capital, Chi?in?u, is a mix of Soviet architecture, leafy parks, and bustling local markets. Wine enthusiasts can explore massive underground cellars at Cricova or Mile?tii Mici, both of which hold Guinness World Records.

Orheiul Vechi, a monastery carved into limestone cliffs, connects visitors with the country’s ancient past. Moldova’s villages still preserve traditional ways of life, and local food often features fresh produce and homemade preserves. For those looking to escape the mainstream, Moldova adds depth to the list of what countries are in Southern Europe.