It is time to prioritize your bucket list dreams and plan a trip to Europe. After being cut off from the world for so long, it is more important than ever to embark on essential trips. Luckily, earning miles, points, or referral credit to travel for next to nothing has never been easier. Before exploring remote parts of the world, consider these incredible European destinations.
1. The Cinque Terre: Instead of opting for the popular Amalfi Coast, visit the Cinque Terre. This group of five fishing villages against rugged terrain is breathtaking. Indulge in Ligurian specialties like fresh pesto, catch of the day, and hillside-grown wines. Experience wave pools crashing along the rocks, boat rides along the coast, and fabulous hiking trails. The Cinque Terre is just a short 2-hour drive from Pisa.
2. The Swiss Alps: There is no one destination you must visit in the Swiss Alps, but you must visit them. Whether it is Zermatt, Interlaken, Lucerne, Montreux, or Saint Moritz, the snow-capped mountains and stunning views are unmatched. Enjoy hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter, and indulging in fondue paired with mineral-driven wines. The intense drama and breathtaking visuals make this trip a must.
3. The Scottish Highlands: Explore the iconic highlands of Scotland and discover whiskey trails, dolphins, the highest peak in the UK, and scenery that rivals Iceland. Experience the masterful B&Bs, bring your hiking gear, rent a car, and explore. Scotland is very manageable, and you’re never more than 2 hours away from a major city like Inverness, Glasgow, or Edinburgh. Don’t miss the Gairloch Beaches, Fairy Pools, or Isle of Skye.
4. The Basque Country: If you enjoy discussing your last meal at dinner parties, then the Basque Country is the perfect destination for you. This region is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than anywhere else in the world. Experience the riviera lifestyle, melting pot of cultures, and picturesque towns. San Sebastian offers delicious culinary delights, while Bilbao features the Frank Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum.
5. The Greek Islands: The beauty of the Greek Islands is undeniable, and you must visit. Whether it’s Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, or Athens, the bluest blues, volcano-cut islands, and preserved culture are awe-inspiring. Enjoy fresh fish from the sea at tavernas and explore the islands by land, air, and sea using the interconnected ferry systems. Don’t limit yourself to one island, visit a few.
6. The Fjords of Norway: The fjords of Norway are perplexing and breathtaking. Fly into Bergen and explore at least a few of the 1,190 fjords. Take a zippy catamaran journey to Søgneford or hike near the fjords of Flåm for epic viewpoints. The narrow waterways surrounded by mountain tops rival the best views in the world.
7. The Bike Rides of Bordeaux: Experience Bordeaux by bike and appreciate the amazing terroir of the region. Explore Pomerol, Medoc, and hectares of wonderful wine. The culinary delights are within reach, and you’re just a short drive from San Sebastian, the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita.
8. The Drive from Vienna to Salzburg: Fly into Vienna and out of Salzburg to make the most of your trip to Austria. The drive between the two cities offers incredible countryside, mountains, and breathtaking views. Visit towns like Hallstatt and Dachstein, where you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard.
9. The Iceland Ring Road Experience: No trip to Iceland is complete without the Ring Road trek. Experience volcanoes, rugged terrain, hot springs, geothermal baths, ice caves, and otherworldly landscapes. This 800-mile drive deserves at least four days, but you can extend it to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Iceland.
10. The Cappadocia Experience: Explore Cappadocia, one of the best journeys in Turkey. This walk through time offers a deeper look at the country beyond popular destinations like Istanbul and Ankara. Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Cappadocia.
These European trips are a must-do to fulfill your travel dreams. Take the time to plan and embark on these unforgettable journeys.
