20 Most Beautiful Landscapes in Europe (With Photos)
What are the most beautiful landscapes in Europe that you need to visit?
Here are my top picks of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.
Europe is rich in the most beautiful landscapes, some of them natural and some engineered through human ingenuity. With its rich history and diverse geography, the continent offers plenty of views you won’t find anywhere else. From the dramatic fjords of Norway to the golden cliffs of Portugal, those sights are so gorgeous that it feels like stepping into a painting. In this article are my top picks of what I think are must-not-miss, beautiful landscapes in Europe.
To learn more about the gems of Europe, check out my blog and my articles on Nazaré, the world’s surfing capital, or Amboise, the heart of the Loire Valley.
Hi! I’m Anya, founder of the travel blog Stop Going to Paris which focuses on underrated cities in Europe. I’m a passionate traveler but above all, a passionate adventurer always looking for the hidden gems that deserve more love.
After 10 years and 70+ destinations, I can help you plan your European trip: book a call with me. It includes a full itinerary with unique destinations, transportation, accommodation and activities.
Fun fact, I live in… drumroll… Paris! That’s why the name of the blog is funny.
The Chalk Cliffs of Etetrat, France
Starting with my personal favorite, the Cliffs of Étretat. Located on the Normandy coast in northern France, they are renowned for their breathtaking beauty that has inspired artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. The cliffs are carved out of white chalk by the waves of the ocean, the rain and the wind. The white of the cliffs contrasts beautifully with the purest blue of the water and makes for gorgeous pictures. Careful when you walk around though, the cliffs are fragile and can crumble under you at any moment!
The Tatra Mountains, Poland and Slovakia
Straddling the border between Poland and Slovakia, the Tatras are the highest range of the Carpathian Mountains. Known for their picturesque landscapes, they offer stunning alpine scenery. Hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing are popular activities offered on both sides of the border.
Zakopane, located at the feet of the mountains, is the most affordable ski resort in Europe, as well as the cutest city. It is possible to rent there a wooden chalet with a stunning view of the mountains.
The Italian Riveria
The Italian Riveria is always a visual delight, with colorful houses, cute cobblestone streets and vineyards clinging to the terraces. You’ll enjoy having your coffee with a view of the water and the harbor filled with fishing boats.
You’ll find beautiful areas like the Cinque Terre, a string of five centuries-old seaside villages, or the Amalfi coast. The Sentiero Azzurro cliffside hiking trail that links the Cinque Terre villages offers fantastic views of the coast. As for the Amalfi coast, you should check out my article on Sorrento, with all my tips to make the most of your trip there.
The Basalt Canyon, Iceland
Stuðlagil Canyon is located in Iceland and is in my opinion the country’s most interesting natural landscape, that to this day remains relatively unknown. It consists of basalt column formations along the Jökulsá á Dal river. The canyon was hidden beneath the waters of the river until the construction of a hydropower plant in the early 2000s lowered the water level and revealed the basalt columns. You can access the canyon via a 4-kilometer hike after a drive to the closest entry point. Well worth it!
The Fjords of Norway
Norway’s fjords are nothing short of spectacular, they offer some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see. Carved by glaciers over millions of years old, they are a perfect example of the natural beauty of our planet. The towering cliffs, the white snow, the deep and serene waters, what’s not to like? It’s an unforgettable sight and a must-visit for any nature enthusiast.
The Canals of Venice, Italy
Do I even need to present Venice? Its iconic canals connect the city built on over 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea. Venice has no roads, only canals, including the Canal Grande, similar to a grand avenue or main street. The canals ARE the streets of Venice, and the gondolas are its (water) busses that provide the main form of transportation.
Each canal is lined with stunning historical buildings, proof of Venice’s rich past as a powerful maritime republic. A gondola ride through the Grand Canal is a fantastic experience of the Venetian beauty. As the saying goes in French: “see Venice and die”.
The Eruption of Fagradalsfjall Volcano, Iceland
Not far from the capital Reykjavik, the Fagradalsfjall volcano eruption is marked by impressive lava flows that are relatively safe for thousands of visitors to approach. The sight of the molten lava rivers spewing and flowing is quite the spectacle. Especially at night, against the dark backdrop of the Icelandic landscape. Witnessing the Fagradalsfjall volcano’s eruption is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
The Highlands and the Isle of Skye, Scotland
With their rugged landscapes and lochs, the often-misty Scottish Highlands are lands of mystery and folklore. It’s always a pleasure to hike through the wild, untamed beauty of the Highlands. You will feel like you are part of the Arthurian legends or the Loch Ness stories we grew up with. The Isle of Skye specifically is a great example of that natural, wild beauty.
The Black Sand Beaches, Canary Islands
Formed from the volcanic activity that shaped the Canary Islands, the sand there is completely black. It’s a cool change from the usual white and yellow sandy beaches and a unique coastal experience.
One of the most famous of these beaches is Los Patos beach in Tenerife, known for its stunning black sand strip that stretches as far as the eye can see. These beaches are a great illustration of the fiery origins of the islands and are today a top spot for photographers and nature lovers. You don’t see black sand every day!
The Dolomites, Italy
Another mountain, I know! But I just like them and hiking them so much, and Europe has the best mountains. The Dolomites are some of the best, majestic mountains that offer stunning views with their frozen lakes and alpine trees.
If you want to hike, the Dolomites are the best place to do so. But whether you’re a hiker, a photographer, or just someone seeking a moment of peace, the Dolomites are simply extraordinary.
The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Standing on top of the Cliffs of Moher, with the waves of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the stone beneath you, is truly an experience like no other. Extremely hard to beat. It’s the perfect place to breathe, take a moment to reflect on the beauty of our planet and appreciate we get to live in it.
The Algarve, Portugal
Famous for its beautiful beaches, picturesque fishing towns and excellent climate, the Algarve is a gem located in southern Portugal. The region is characterized by golden cliffs, clear waters, and caves that can be explored by boat. The Algarve’s coast is the best spot for relaxation, adventure and beach fun.
The Northern Lights, Greenland
The Northern Lights in Greenland are one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth. I’m sure you have heard of them already, and you know you need to see them one day. The Lights paint the prettiest colors on the dark Arctic sky, with hues of green, pink, violet, and sometimes even red. The show is best viewed from Greenland’s untouched wilderness, with the sights improved by the landscapes of icebergs, glaciers, and rugged mountains on the horizon.
Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for a good reason. The Park showcases an impressive network of lakes connected by cascading waterfalls, absolutely stunning. You can wander around on wooden pathways to enjoy the sound of the water, the light, and the forest — kind of like a fairy tale.
The Glaciers of Iceland
Iceland is the ideal place to see huge glaciers. For example, the popular Jökulsárlón Lagoon located in Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland, is a vast lagoon filled with icebergs that have broken away and are slowly drifting out to sea. These icebergs come in all sizes and shapes and shimmer in colors of blue, white, and sometimes black when they are dusted with volcanic ash.
Visitors can explore the lagoon on boat tours, getting up close to the icebergs. You might even witness the birth of a new iceberg as it separates from the glacier. The lagoon is also home to seals and a variety of bird species that only add to the spectacle.
And how cool would it be to walk in an ice cave in the heart of a glacier?
The Lavender Fields of Provence, France
Come June, the hills of Provence are painted in the most vibrant purple thanks the lavender cultivated there. Wandering around the field of lavender is a great sensory experience, with the colors, the scents, and the warmth of the sun on the skin. It’s also a fantastically Instagramable place!
The White and Blue Houses of Santorini, Greece
Like Venice, do I even need to present Santorini? The iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed buildings of Santorini are always a dream. To me, the island captures the essence of Mediterranean beauty. Better done during the off-season though!
The Lofoten Islands, Norway
Above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are known for their snow-capped peaks, untouched beaches, and traditional fishing villages. But not to worry, despite the very northern latitude, they enjoy a relatively mild climate thanks to the Gulf Stream. The natural beauty here, from the Northern Lights in winter to the midnight sun in summer, is unparalleled.
Mont Saint-Michel, France
The iconic Mont Saint-Michel, located in Normandy, France, is a beautiful treasure of architectural genius, with its medieval abbey that points upward, creating a silhouette that has attracted visitors for centuries. It’s set on a rocky island on sandbanks exposed to the changing tide: at high tide, it becomes a true island surrounded by water, cut off from the mainland, and at low tide, it is accessible by foot thanks to the sand floor that is revealed.
Conclusion
While some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, all these landscapes, each with its own character and story, are just the beginning of what the continent has to offer. If you want to learn more about it and plan a trip, check out my blog and my articles on Nazaré, the world’s surfing capital, or Amboise, the heart of the Loire Valley.
So, plan your trip, pack your bags and set your sights on Europe’s horizons. As a reminder, if you need a hand to plan your European trip, you can book a call with me and I’ll help you. It includes a full itinerary with unique destinations, and help booking your transportation, accommodation and activities.
Happy travels!
FAQs
When is the best time to visit the Norwegian fjords?
The best time is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the days are long.
Do I need any special equipment to hike the Dolomites?
For most trails, good hiking boots and appropriate outdoor clothing are enough. For more challenging routes, consider bringing hiking poles and a helmet.
Can you visit the Cliffs of Moher for free?
Access to the visitor center requires a fee, but you can view the cliffs from various points along the coastal walk for free.
What’s the best way to experience Plitvice Lakes National Park?
Walking the marked trails and taking a boat ride on one of the lakes offer the best experiences. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Is Provence’s lavender season short?
Yes, lavender typically blooms from late June to early August, so plan your visit within this window to see the fields at their most vibrant.
What are the most beautiful landscapes in Europe?
The Fjords of Norway, the lavender fields of Provence, the Tatra Mountains, the black sans beaches of the the Canary Islands, the glaciers of Iceland and many more are counted among the most beautiful landscapes in Europe
