Serving up 125 miles of diverse island beauty, the Florida Keys offer a seemingly endless supply of turquoise waters, pristine white sands and outdoor adventures. Experiencing a lush subtropical climate and year-round warmth might seem out of reach within the continental United States, but thanks to the road that runs almost to the tip of the archipelago, it’s closer than you think.
Stretching from Key Largo to Key West and beyond, there are around 800 keys to explore, and many are connected to mainland Florida by the Overseas Highway. So load up the car, pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, and check out our list of best beach getaways in the Florida Keys.
Bahia Honda State Park is a playground for nature enthusiasts. Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock
1. Bahia Honda State Park
Best beach for birdwatching and activities
One of the biggest gems on the Florida Birding Trail, Bahia Honda State Park teems with wildlife and offers great opportunities for birdwatching. Nestled between Big Pine Key and Marathon, the park is home to species such as wood warblers, great white herons and sandpipers; it’s a haven for both birds and nature enthusiasts.
For prime views of the park’s feathered residents, head over to the Old Bahia Honda Railroad Bridge. While no longer in use, this partially accessible steel bridge extends over the water, providing breathtaking vistas of the park’s natural beauty.
In addition to birdwatching, Bahia Honda State Park offers a wide array of beachside activities. Visitors can rent kayaks, embark on snorkeling tours and explore nature trails right beside the shore. The park’s science center adds a touch of discovery, with staff on hand to educate visitors about local marine life such as stone crabs and comb jellies.
Planning Tip: To make the most of the experience, stay at one of the park’s three campgrounds, with toilet and shower blocks, tent spaces and hookups for RVs.
2. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
Best beach for history lovers
History enthusiasts visiting Key West on the third weekend of the month are in for a treat at this sandy spot. Located at the island’s southwest tip, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park hosts monthly Civil War reenactments, bringing to life the fort’s role as a Union stronghold.
Year-round, visitors can explore this fort from the mid-1800s on guided tours that highlight its history in the Civil War and Spanish-American War, and view an impressive collection of seaside cannons and artillery. The park also has Key West’s best beach, with white sands, calm waters ideal for swimming and vibrant tropical fish beneath the waves.
Parts of the shore can be rocky, so water shoes make wading easier. The beach is also a serene alternative to Mallory Square for watching the sunset, though the park closes immediately after the sun dips below the horizon. Accessing the beach requires a short 10-minute walk from the park entrance.
Detour: A 15-minute stroll east of the park is the famous Hemingway House, once home to its namesake author and still home to six-toed cats.
The westernmost point in the Florida Keys, Dry Tortugas National Park is wonderfully remote. Eddie Brady/Getty Images
3. Dry Tortugas National Park
Best beach for a secluded escape
Despite its name, Key West isn’t the westernmost destination in the Florida Keys; that distinction belongs to Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles west. Spilling into the Gulf of Mexico, this remote spot consists of seven islands and is one of the most secluded places in the US National Park system.
To reach it, visitors must book a transfer via the park’s official ferry, the Yankee Freedom III, or charter a private boat or seaplane. Once you arrive, you’ll discover pristine coral reefs, secluded beaches and historic Fort Jefferson, a massive Civil War-era fortress.
Local Tip: Book your ferry tickets as far in advance as possible, as they typically sell out days, if not weeks, in advance.
4. John Pennekamp State Park
Best beach for an underwater adventure
Hailed as the first underwater park in the US, John Pennekamp State Park spans more than 48,000 acres of ocean and 170 acres of dry land, offering a mix of marine adventures and land-based activities. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and its coral reefs teem with marine life such as barracudas and parrotfish.
For an up-close view, book a glass-bottom boat tour to Molasses Reef (they run three times daily year-round), or explore the underwater Christ of the Abyss statue on snorkeling or diving trips. If you’re happy to explore above the water, the park has miles of mangrove-lined channels for kayaking.
On land, there are three nature trails, including the Mangrove Trail – a boardwalk showcasing this unique ecosystem – and the Wild Tamarind Trail, where labels help visitors identify native hardwood trees. The visitor center features a 30,000-gallon aquarium and informative nature films, while nightly campfire programs are a fun touch during the vacation season.
Planning Tip: The park has its own dive shop, offering daily boat dives in season. Snorkeling trips leave up to five times daily; book ahead online.
Loggerhead turtles nest on Marathon’s Sombrero Beach from April to October. Shutterstock
5. Sombrero Beach
Best beach for families and turtles
This popular beach in Marathon is as family-friendly as it gets, with shaded picnic spots, barbecue grills, a playground and volleyball courts. Its calm waters and sandy shores make it ideal for relaxing or swimming, and from April to October, the beach is an important nesting site for loggerhead turtles – about 10% of the sand is fenced off to protect them.
The city of Marathon offers unique opportunities for visitors to help survey and count the nesting sites, and there are periodic events where nature enthusiasts can help release rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean. Check the city administration website for announcements.
6. Curry Hammock State Park
Best beach in the mid-Keys area
If the vibrant crowds of Key West feel a bit much, the serenity of Curry Hammock State Park offers a perfect escape. Nestled between Duck Key and Marathon, this 1000-acre haven is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking quiet.
The park features campsites, a 1.5-mile nature trail and four picnic pavilions, but the real highlight is paddling. Two popular kayak routes await, with the standout being the 1.5-mile loop around Little Crawl Key. This scenic journey takes paddlers through mangrove tunnels and a deep-water lagoon, passing sun-soaked sandbars –perfect for a day immersed in nature.
Local Tip: Despite being a paddling hub, on-site rentals can be hit-or-miss outside of the holiday season. As an alternative, nearby Marathon Kayaking and Paddleboarding offers rentals year-round.
Smathers Beach is one of Key West’s most popular strips of sand. Getty Images
7. Smathers Beach
Best Key West beach escape
Picture a classic South Florida beach with white sand stretching down to turquoise waters. Nestled on Key West’s southern shore, Smathers Beach fits the bill perfectly, with ample space for relaxation or adventure. Highlights include volleyball courts, food trucks and a water sports hub where you can arrange parasailing, jet skiing and kayaking.
For a mini adventure, can wade out to the sandbar just offshore – the shallow, calm waters at Mathers Beach make it easy to explore. It’s worth noting however that this spot gets packed with crowds of college students during Spring Break.
8. Higgs Beach
Best beach for dog lovers
If your Key West adventure includes Fido (or you love seeing pups frolic on the sand), Higgs Beach is a must-visit, thanks to one of Florida’s top dog parks. It’s a charming spot for relaxation, exploration and quality time with your furry friend.
Nearby, the Key West Wildlife Center rehabilitates injured birds, sea turtles and other wildlife, and it offers public tours six days a week. Beyond the wildlife, Higgs Beach has white sand, six tiki huts for picnics, and the historic West Martello Tower – a former military lookout with picturesque gardens that make a perfect Instagram stop.
Local Tip: Dogs must remain on a leash at the park, except for the fenced-in dog park which has dedicated areas for small and large dogs.
Anne’s Beach is one of the Florida Key’s best kept secrets. Steve Heap/Shutterstock
9. Anne’s Beach
Best under-the-radar beach
Tucked away on Upper Matecumbe Key in Islamorada, Anne’s Beach has shallow, calm waters that are perfect for wading, framed by an emerald line of mangroves. It’s ideal for picnicking, sunbathing or kayaking through peaceful waters, and a unique boardwalk offers elevated views of these idyllic surroundings. Parking is limited – there are about 15 spots – so arrive early to secure your precious piece of real estate.
Detour: No trip to Islamorada would be complete without visiting its most famous resident, Betsy the Lobster. This giant lobster statue stands off the Overseas Highway, about 20 minutes north of Anne’s Beach.
10. Founders Park Beach
Best beach for sunsets
Another dreamy spot in Islamorada, this beach and park is a local gem with a rich history, named to honor (you guessed it) the area’s founding families. Covering 40 acres, the park has a sandy beach, sports fields, walking trails and a dog park. Facing west, it’s also a prime spot for taking in the spectacular sunsets over Florida Bay.
Local Tip: To take the outdoorsy-ness to another level, the History of Diving Museum is just minutes away, offering a deep dive into the Keys’ underwater heritage.
Long the domain of savvy sailors and fly-in millionaires, the spectacular Grenadines also offer plenty for the independent traveler – you don’t need your own boat to fully explore the magnificent archipelago. Spanning the nations of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada, the Lesser Antilles region offers a wide variety of authentic Caribbean experiences where nature is never far from the spotlight.
What you should know before visiting the Grenadines
Comprising 32 islands and cays stretching between Saint Vincent and Grenada, the official language of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is English; however, most residents also speak Vincentian Creole. You’ll often hear the English-based Creole in informal settings – influenced by French, Spanish, Portuguese and the languages of the Garifuna and West Africa. The multi-island Caribbean nation is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, luxury accommodations, and sailing and pirate history. Visitors also flock to the island chain for marine and wildlife encounters and outdoor wonders like the active La Soufrière Volcano.
Throughout the region, there is no shortage of cultural activities across islands – from blues and gospel festivals to regattas and Carnival. Each island’s traditions and history are as lush as its landscape, making this the ideal destination for island hoppers and history buffs.
Most recently, the July 1, 2024, landfall of Category 4 Hurricane Beryl caused considerable devastation and infrastructural disruption to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, more so than any of the other Caribbean islands. While Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and its people remain in recovery, ports are open and islands are safe to explore.
Read on to discover which island in the Grenadines you should include in your trip.
The most visited of the Grenadines and rightly so, beautiful Bequia is the quintessential slow-paced Caribbean island that really does have it all. Visitors can swim, dive or hike through dazzling natural beauty by day and then soak up the tropical atmosphere in the evening, sipping cocktails or tucking into a gourmet meal on a panoramic terrace.
Among its many draws are Princess Margaret Beach and Lower Bay, two wonderful stretches of sand backed by lush greenery, just a short hike from the capital Port Elizabeth.
As the second-largest island in the chain, Bequia offers plenty of attractions for nature lovers. There are good drift dives along the leeward side of the north of the island while the remote hilly north of the island affords ample opportunity for exploration; climb some of the imposing forested peaks for fine views of Saint Vincent and other Grenadine islands.
Bequia is an island that’s bound to entertain regardless of the time of year. The four-day Bequia Music Festival, one of the island’s most popular events, kicks off the year in January. A smaller-scale Carnival celebration takes place at the end of June, as part of the regional Vincy Mas, while Bequia Fisherman’s Day is the largest annual fishing event (held the Saturday after Vincy Mas). For a bit of holiday spirit during vacation, partake in the tradition of Nine Mornings – a local pre-Christmas activity where residents sing and celebrate throughout the island over the nine nights leading up to the holiday.
Getting there: Visiting Bequia is a breeze thanks to its efficient regular fast ferry service linking it with Kingstown on Saint Vincent Island. SVG Air has flights from the airport on the south of the island to Kingstown, Barbados and St Lucia.
Mustique
Best for: Kicking back with rock stars
Mysterious Mustique, home to rock stars and the uber wealthy, is the island that fomented the image of the Grenadines as playground for the rich and famous.
The private island has some of the priciest accommodations in the region – if you have the bank balance, you can crash at the Balinese themed villa built by David Bowie. Mustique is also reported to be a longtime home of music and fashion icons like Mick Jagger and Tommy Hilfiger. But you don’t need to be rolling in it to visit – day trips on yachts from Bequia allow visitors to get a taste of Mustique’s manicured lawns and pure tropical perfection. Visitors can lie on pristine beaches and have a drink at the iconic Basil’s Bar overlooking the main harbor – you never know who might be at the next table.
Mustique Blues Festival, celebrating its 30th year in 2025, is a highlight of the island’s event calendar. This gathering of the world’s biggest blues acts typically occurs at the end of January and through February. Artsy travelers will enjoy aligning their visit with the annual Mustique Charitable Trust craft fair, where local vendors sell handmade beauty products, banana art, baskets, jewelry and other SVG-made keepsakes to add to your decor collection. Like other islands in the region, the shared traditions of Carnival, Nine Mornings and regatta culture are equally important in Mustique.
Getting there: There are no public ferry services to Mustique. Travelers can visit on a day sailing cruise from Bequia; a recommended boat is the elegant Caribbean schooner Friendship Rose. Visitors with accommodation can find regular flights from Barbados, Kingstown, Grenada and Saint Lucia with Mustique Airways.
Tobago Cays
Best for: Snorkeling
Uninhabited and protected as a marine park, the gorgeous Tobago Cays are the highlight of any trip to the Grenadines. Surrounded by an impressive barrier reef, they offer some of the best snorkeling in all of the Caribbean with warm, shallow waters filled with hard corals that are alive with marine life, including a thriving population of marine turtles.
The beauty of the cays is no secret among travelers, but they rarely feel overrun thanks to their remote location and lack of development. A day trip here is a thoroughly relaxing experience with bouts of snorkeling, swimming and lazing on the sands interrupted only by freshly caught seafood meals.
Getting there: There is no public transportation to the Tobago Cays, but it’s possible to charter a small boat for a day trip from any one of the populated Grenadine islands; Mayreau is the cheapest departure point, followed by Union Island. To see the cays in style, book a sailing tour from Union Island on the pirate ship Scaramouche.
Tiny Mayreau may not have a hospital, school or any police, but the lack of development doesn’t stop the small population of locals from having a good time. Mayreau is famed locally for its hard partying. In fact, those that work on the boats swear that Mayreau’s weekly beer order far eclipses that of far larger neighbor Union Island.
Apart from bar hopping, there are plenty of other reasons to pay a visit. The island is part of the Tobago Cays Marine Park and has spectacular beaches. Long a secret amongst yachties in the know, Salt Whistle Bay on the northern tip of the island is one of the most perfect bays in the Grenadines: a full horseshoe-shaped crescent of brilliant white sand lined with coconut palms that looks almost too good to be true. It’s a fantastic place to swim.
The undeveloped nature of Mayreau means there are plenty of rarely visited smaller bays to discover, and the small size of the island means you’re never too far from home (or cold beers) once you tire of exploration.
Getting there: Some southern Grenadines ferry services, including the MV Barracuda, call at Mayreau on the Kingstown-Union Island run. Alternatively, a school boat runs between Clifton on Union Island and Mayreau every weekday morning and afternoon. There’s no airstrip on Mayreau.
A tale of two islands – Canouan is a peculiar place that, in some ways, shows the perils of tourism development. Once a normal Grenadine paradise, more than half of the island was sold off by the SVG government to private investors for a mega resort project, leaving local residents bunched up in the village on the southern reaches of the isle without access to some of Canouan’s loveliest spots. Of course if you’re staying in the resort, you will enjoy access to absolutely stunning beaches with first class snorkeling and zero crowds.
While many of the nicest beaches are within the resort boundaries, there is also fine snorkeling and some lovely sands to the south and east of the village of Charlestown, although infrastructure on the island is limited for independent visitors.
Held typically in May, the Canouan Regatta attracts visitors from around SVG for several days of boat races, family-friendly cultural activities, and sporting and dance competitions.
Getting there: Canouan is accessible by ferry services running between Kingstown on Saint Vincent and Union Island with MV Barracuda. There are flights to Kingstown and Union Island – a five-minute hop over the channel – with SVG Air.
Union Island
Best for: Kiteboarding, meeting locals
An outpost at the far southern end of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and across an international border, mountainous Union Island has traditionally been off the radar for many visitors but has recently been discovered by a new wave of adventurous independent travelers.
With a couple of laid-back villages and no major resorts, it’s one of the best islands for visitors to mix it up with locals. The main street in Clifton is lined with little cafes and restaurants, and it’s a fun place to relax in the evening after sun-soaked adventures.
As a true Grenadine, Union Island is not without its share of astonishing natural beauty. Big Sand on the west side of the island is a wonderful crescent of powdery white fronted by brilliant turquoise sea and framed by jungle covered bluffs. The waters to the east of the airport runway on the north side of the island offer some of the best kiteboarding in the archipelago.
Union Island is the home of a uniquely special Caribbean celebration, the Maroon Festival. Taking place on the full moon of May each year, the festival draws inspiration from the harvest rituals of enslaved West Africans, acknowledged today in the form of ancestral song, dance and drum rhythms passed down generationally.
Getting there: Union Island is the last stop on the southern Grenadines ferry routes from Kingstown, and both the MV Gem Star and MV Barracuda spend the night here. The small local airport receives regular flights from Kingstown as well as less frequent services from Grenada, St Lucia and Barbados. Bookings can be made through SVG Air.
Home to the Grenadines’ most vibrant Carnival as well as one of its leading music festivals, Carriacou is the archipelago’s largest island and also its most culture-focused. Sure, it has the requisite first-class beaches – Paradise Beach on the west side of the island very much lives up to its name, while secluded Anse La Roche is a delightful cove surrounded by bush with coral reefs just offshore – but there’s also plenty going on once the sun goes down.
Carnival in Carriacou is a raucous affair involving oil-covered bodies dancing in the street until the early hours. But Carriacou Carnival’s biggest claim to fame is the intriguing Pierrot or “Shakespeare Mas,” where pairs of costumed men recite verses from the bard and bash each other with sticks if they fluff their lines.
Other cultural showpieces include the Big Drum Dance – an ancestral dance performed on special occasions and accompanied by plenty of rum – and the Carriacou Maroon and String Band Music Festival, a full-on celebration of drumming, dancing and smoked foods.
Getting there: Carriacou is one of the easiest islands in the Grenadines to visit thanks to the regular fast ferry service run by Osprey Lines from St Georges on Grenada, which has good international air links.
Know before you go
While Saint Vincent and the Grenadine Islands are still in recovery mode from Hurricane Beryl, the islands remain open for tourism, depending largely on visa-exempt travelers from the US and United Kingdom as an economic source, especially in times of restoration.
The unprecedented impact of the storm on this region of the West Indies has affected approximately 52% of the island’s population, although many of the resorts now operate as normal for guests. As resiliency projects continue to support each island’s recovery, the outlook for a full recovery is approximately two years, according to the Minister of Tourism for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the Honourable Carlos James.
All of Switzerland is crazily gorgeous, but Grindelwald takes this to a whole new level – it is eyes-on-stalks beautiful. All around colossal, near-4000m-high peaks (13,123ft) send your gaze and soul spiraling ever higher – the gnarly north face of Eiger of mountaineering legend and rope-breaking tragedy, the crown-like peak of Wetterhorn, the dagger-like summit of Schreckhorn.
Whether seen in the alpenglow pink of a summer sunset, with piny scents and cowbells on the breeze, or under a fresh blanket of snow in winter, Grindelwald makes a spectacular base for tossing yourself into all the outdoor activities the Jungfrau Region of the Bernese Alps has to offer. Hiking, ziplining, skydiving, glacier swinging, mountain biking, skiing, sledding, snowshoeing – name your adventure, it’s right here. Read on for our first-time guide to getting around and making the most of one of Switzerland’s most charismatic, adventure-mad mountain towns.
Follow hiking trails up craggy peaks for epic views of mountains and glaciers. Shutterstock
When should I go to Grindelwald?
Grindelwald swings with the Alpine seasons. The winter season goes with the snow, with the town leaping to life roughly from December, when the first flakes start to fall, through to early April, when the first rays of spring sunshine kick off the big thaw. In May, October and November, the resort flicks into rest mode, with many hotels, restaurants and cable cars closing.
In winter, the town is a ready-made Christmas card, with skiers and boarders whizzing down slopes in the shadow of Eiger’s fearsome north face, cable cars winging you effortlessly up to glacier-capped heights, and a raft of low-key, family-geared activities – from moonlit snowshoeing and sledding to winter walking and cross-country skiing in snow-iced forests. Dodge school holiday times and Christmas for better deals. Crowd-pulling events include unmissables like the ice sculpting World Snow Festival in mid-January, and the crazy Velogemel World Championships in February.
Summer looks different, but just as lovely. Alpine meadows bloom and jangle with cowbells, family-run cheese dairies fling open their doors (great for picnics), and trails thread like veins up into the craggy surrounding peaks for knockout views of steep mountain faces and crevassed glaciers. You can whack on boots for high-elevation hikes, tackle a big climb in the company of a guide, or test your nerve on pretty much every Alpine pursuit imaginable, from zip-lining to mountain-biking and carting and canyoning. Street festivals, sunset cinema and July’s Eiger Ultra Trail race star on the events calendar.
If you like things more peaceful, September can be glorious. The biggest crowds have departed, room rates are plunging and early autumn can bring golden days for hiking and biking.
Five days is enough time to experience the best of Grindelwald, including flying down First mountain by zip-line. Michal Stipek/Getty Images
How much time should I spend in Grindelwald?
Why the rush? If you book a couple of nights in Grindelwald, you’ll wish you had the whole week or longer – we swear. Grindelwald makes a cracking springboard for diving deep into the sky-high Alps of the Jungfrau Region. Much of the focus here is on outdoor action, so be sure to build in the odd rest day for the chance to unwind and spend a some time just kicking back in an Alpine hut or wandering around the village.
With five days to hand, you can get a taste of all Grindelwald has to offer, hopping in a cable car to nearby peaks like 1387m (4550ft) Pfingstegg for zip-lining, bobsledding and hiking to the dramatic Glacier Gorge, and First for entrancing hikes to mountain lakes, zip-lining, and tearing downhill on a mountain cart or Trottibike scooter. Kleine Scheidegg (with its soul-stirring Eiger Trail), the family-friendly peak of Männlichen, and a once-in-a-lifetime ride up to Jungfraujoch should also be high on the agenda. Tag on an extra few days and there’s time to hike and ski in pretty-as-a-picture villages like Wengen and Mürren, and see mist-dashed waterfalls plunge over vertical cliff faces in Lauterbrunnen.
Traveling in and around Grindelwald by train is a chance to see the gorgeous mountain landscapes. Shutterstock
Is it easy to get in and around Grindelwald?
Frequent, efficient SBB trains speed from Zurich International Airport to Interlaken in just over two hours. The airport is well connected to other European destinations, served by airlines including easyJet, British Airways, Swiss and Lufthansa. From Geneva Airport, the journey to Interlaken takes three hours. Either way, the train ride is so scenic you’ll be glued to the window the entire way. From Interlaken Ost station, there are half-hourly trains to Grindelwald (the journey takes 35 minutes). Renting a car is pointless – public transport here is the way to go.
Getting around in Grindelwald is more than just about going from A to B – it’s part of the fun. The center is walkable and heart-racingly beautiful trails lead along the river, through forests and twist ever higher into the mountains in every direction. The network of trains, cable cars and funiculars makes zipping about a breeze and a pleasure, whether you want to visit Europe’s highest train station 3454m (11,332ft) Jungfraujoch on the tri-cable Eiger Express, hit slopes in the shadow of Eiger at Kleine Scheidegg, or go for a play on the adventure peak of First. Surrounding resorts like waterfall-splashed Lauterbrunnen, Wengen and pretty Mürren are easily doable as half-day or day trips.
Take a scenic 6km hike from the summit of First to Bachalpsee. Moritz Wolf/Getty Images
Top things to do in Grindelwald
Find an Alpine playground at First
If you only have time to tick off one peak in Grindelwald, make it 2184m (7165ft) First. Before launching yourself into all the activities up here, swoon over the dress-circle views of the Bernese Alps from the cliff-hugging First Cliff Walk, jutting into the void.
Now it’s all about getting back down the mountain in the most exhilarating ways possible. You can ping towards Eiger on the feet-first First Flyer and head-first First Glider zip lines. Then thunder downhill from Schreckfeld to Bort in a chunky mountain cart, with the Alps but a blur. In Bort, switch to a Trottibike scooter for the final speedy leg back down to Grindelwald. Or to give the crowds the slip, chuck your boots on for the two-hour, 6km (3.7-mile) return hike from the summit to Bachalpsee, a mountain-rimmed beauty of a lake that holds up a mirror to the 4078m (13,379ft) fang of Schreckhorn.
Hitch a ride on the Eiger Express to Jungfraujoch
You can’t help but gasp out loud in the Eiger Express. Grindelwald’s ultra-green, tri-cable gondola floats over pine, meadow and peak up to Eigergletscher station in just 15 minutes, getting so close to Eiger’s mile-high, glacier-encrusted north face you feel you’ll smash straight into it. From here, switch to the nostalgic Jungfrau Railway, the red train that has been trundling up to the summit of Europe’s highest station – Jungfraujoch – since 1912. At the top, a Narnia-like wintry scene unfolds, with astonishing views reaching across the 23km (14 mile) ripple of the Aletsch Glacier and a host of 4000m (13,123ft) peaks. Wander through the sparkling chambers of the Ice Palace, hacked out by mountaineers in the 1930s, or lose the crowds by stomping 45 minutes through the snow to the 3650m-high (11,975ft) Mönchsjochhütte for a warming bowl of goulash or cheese raclette.
Follow the dramatic trails through the gorge at Glacier Canyon. Shutterstock
Feel nature’s force in the Glacier Canyon
Wrap up warm as temperatures average just 10°C (50°F) even in the height of summer in the cool depths of Grindelwald’s Glacier Canyon. The Lower Grindelwald Glacier, which has long since retreated, carved out this dramatic gorge, where the raging waters of the Lütschine River crash past towering 300m-high (984ft), spectacularly lit rock walls veined with pink and green marble. A walkable, web-like net spanning the gorge allows you to spider across it for dizzying views. Or to ramp up the action further still, take a run and freefall jump from the 90m-high (295ft) platform of the Canyon Swing. Only for the brave…
Dash down Europe’s longest toboggan run
With a name like “Big Pintenfritz,” you might expect big things – this epic 15km (9-mile) sled run doesn’t disappoint. But you have to earn your thrills here, tiptoeing away from the crowds and hoofing it uphill as you haul your sled for a good two hours through the snow from First to the 2681m (8796ft) summit of Faulhorn. Now the fun begins as you pinball down the mountain all the way back down to Grindelwald, careering around icy bends and through snow-daubed forests, with wow-eliciting views of the Bernese Alps. Pause to warm your frozen fingers over a mug of glühwein (mulled wine) at Bergrestaurant Bussalp.
Männlichen is reached from Grindelwald Grund by cable car, and is a great place to go with kids. Markus Thoenen/Getty Images
Take the kids up to Männlichen
A cable car lifts you from Grindelwald Grund to the 2343m-high (7687ft) peak of Männlichen in just 20 minutes. At the top, sensational views of the Jungfrau Alps crack open. This is a terrific mountain for families, with nature-focused activities including a huge Alpine playground with a giant cow and a treetop path. On the Lieselotte Trail, there are action stations where kids can test out an alphorn and glimpse marmots through binoculars. There’s superb hiking up here, too, with top billing going to the easy-going, one-and-a-half-hour, 4.5km (2.8-mile) Panorama Trail, which twists through flowery meadows to Kleine Scheidegg. The scenery is mind-blowing – towering cliffs, glinting glaciers and up-close views of the “Big Three:” Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
My favorite thing to do in Grindelwald
Rent out a Velogemel, a vintage wooden ski-sledge-bike hybrid that was invented by a Grindelwald carpenter in 1911 to make zipping around the Alps easy for everyone from doctors to postal workers. The Velogemel looks like absolute madness, but with a little patience – and the odd snowy tumble – it’s pretty simple to get the knack and go flying down the mountain, digging your heels in to break. It’s such a legend these days, it even has its own wacky world championships in February. I gave it a whirl at Kleine Scheidegg, but you could also take it up on the Eiger Run (for fabulous views) or the final 9km (5.6 miles) of “Big Pintenfritz” starting at Bussalp.
How much money do I need for Grindelwald
This is Switzerland – Grindelwald ain’t cheap. That said, if you’re prepared to forego luxury in favor of hostels (try the lodge-style Swiss Youth Hostel Grindelwald or the green-minded, nature-focused Naturfreundehaus), camping (try the riverside Gletscherdorf) and inexpensive hut meals or picnics, you can save plenty of francs. At the other end of the spectrum are posh spa and boutique hotels with front-row Eiger views and slick restaurants where tasting menus whisper of Michelin stars to come. Price wise, the sky’s the limit.
Dorm room in a hostel: Sfr50–80 (US$58–93)
Double B&B in a boutique hotel: Sfr250–600 (US$289–694)
Self-catering apartment per week: Sfr500–2500 (US$578–2891)
Train ticket to Interlaken: Sfr10 (US$11.56)
Jungfrau Ski Pass per day adult/child: Sfr79/38 (US$91/44)
Five-course tasting menu at an upscale restaurant: Sfr135 (US$156)
Save on mountain transport
Transport is likely to be a hefty chunk out of your budget, so it’s well worth investing in a pass, such as the 3- to 8-day money-saving Jungfrau Travel Pass, offering unlimited travel on most mountain railways and cable cars. If you want Jungfraujoch included, opt for the Jungfrau Summer Pass or Jungfrau Winter Pass instead. For longer journeys beyond the region, the Swiss Travel Pass is really handy.
First things first – whittling down the best places in the world to snowboard is a difficult task. The fantastic interconnectivity of France’s Les Trois Vallées, for example, will always go down a storm with snowboarders keen to max out their mileage, while the ridiculously stunning tree runs you’ll find in places like Whistler Blackcomb will never fail to leave other resorts for dust when it comes to the fun factor. This is precisely why, as a former snowboard instructor who taught in Canada and spent winters working in ski hotels in Italy and France, I considered a range of factors, rooting out the resorts that have gone all-out to create snowboarder-friendly terrain, while offering a great range of accommodation. These spots also rank highly for having dedicated infrastructure that allows snowboarders to max out their time on the slopes, which might include squadrons of snow cannons to ensure an abundance of the white stuff or high-speed lifts that will whisk snowboarders to the top of the mountain for their next adrenaline fix.
With that in mind, if you’re looking for the best places in the world for snowboarding, here are the ski areas worthy of your winter radar.
1. Hokkaidō, Japan
Best for beautiful backdrops
Japan has an almost mythical status amongst both snowboarders and skiers. Not just because of its legendary ‘Japow’ (fine, dry powder snow that doesn’t clump or stick) but because of its aesthetic appeal. Hokkaidō, Japan’s second-largest island is where you’ll find some of its top resorts – places like Niseko, with its pristine, powder-covered slopes and snow-dusted pine trees. The resorts are a cut above when it comes to aesthetics too, whether it’s the recently opened Ritz-Carlton Higashiyama Niseko Village with its in-room onsens and views of Mt Niseko-Annupuri, or the temple-like Kasara Niseko Village Townhouses, filled with Japanese artwork. Take a tactical approach to timing when snowboarding in Japan, and consider avoiding later February, when the slopes fill with visitors celebrating the Lunar New Year. I recommend visiting in March when slopes are generally crowd-free and flights, lift passes and accommodations cost slightly less.
The resorts of les Trois Vallées, including Val Thorens, are a magnet for freestyle snowboarders. Jerome LABOUYRIE/Shutterstock
2. Les Trois Vallées, France
Best for freestyle fun
Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest skiing and snowboarding area, is a high-altitude French paradise with a seriously high fun factor. It’s got seven resorts – the most famous of which are Méribel, Val Thorens and Courchevel. This spot is a magnet for snowboarders with a love of freestyle, thanks to the presence of a knee-jarring six snowparks and 37 fun zones. It’s also one of Europe’s most snow-sure resorts, which is a major advantage when flinging yourself off rails, kickers and tabletops (for the uninitiated, these are obstacles designed specifically for snowboarders). This is due to its altitude – its 595km (370 miles) of slopes are between 1100km (3608ft) and 3230m (10,600ft) above sea level, and 85% of the ski area is above 1800m (5900ft).
3. Kitzbüheler Alps, Austria
Best for beginners
Learning to snowboard is much easier when you’ve got a beautiful backdrop (as long as you can resist the temptation for a mid-slope selfie) and Austria’s Kitzbüheler Alps are breathtakingly beautiful, as well as a great spot for novices. The area has 20 towns and 900km (559 miles) of pistes, which means there’s plenty of room for beginners. One of my favorite resorts is St Johann in Tyrol, famous for its crowd-free, wide-open slopes. Additionally, a seven-day lift pass for the entire area costs just €319, which means less pressure to spend every waking hour on the slopes.
For a luxurious experience once you’re off your snowboard, head to St Moritz. Marcial Gamma/Shutterstock
4. St Moritz, Switzerland
Best for luxury
Snowboarders with a weakness for the finer things in life will love St Moritz, the name of both an alpine town and a ski area, and one which has been a magnet for celebs – ranging from royals to rappers and everyone in between – for decades. This is a place with some of the swankiest ski hotels, such as Badrutt’s Palace with its army of butlers on hand to carry visitors’ snowboards and dole out hot chocolates (or something stronger), and where annual events include the SunIce Festival (often referred to as the Coachella of the Alps) and the Snow Polo World Cup. But don’t get it wrong – with 87 slopes located at between 1798m (5900ft) and 3292m (10,800ft) above sea level, the terrain is outstanding, and there’s a reason it’s hosted the Winter Olympics twice.
5. Paridiski, France
Best for families
France’s Paradiski region, which has 425km (264 miles) of perfectly maintained trails, has two of the world’s top resorts at its heart: La Plagne and Les Arcs, connected by the Vanoise Express, a double-decker cable car, which was the biggest, longest and fastest cable car in the world when it opened in 2003. The smaller villages that surround the larger resorts are great bases for families (one example is Peisey Nancroix, which is one of the prettiest and still has fast lift access to the main ski area), and discounted family lift passes mean snowboarding here doesn’t have to break the bank. There are numerous beginner areas in which nervous first-timers can hone their skills, too – La Plagne has six (served by dedicated lifts that are free to use) while each of Les Arcs’ six villages has its own dedicated beginners’ area. There’s also a fantastic range of off-piste activities, ranging from laser tag to bowling.
Whistler Blackcomb is a top place for snowboarders to get off-piste. Juana Nunez/Shutterstock
6. Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Best for après-ski
Regarded by many snowboarders as the world’s best resort for off-piste fun, Whistler Blackcomb, which has 200 trails spread across 33 sq km (8171 acres), is a place where the fun doesn’t stop when the last lift grinds to a halt. This Canadian resort has everything from buzzing nightclubs (particularly Moe Joe’s, famous for its lively dance parties) and cocktail bars to cosy après-ski hangouts such as the Braidwood Tavern, where you can rest weary legs while sipping beers from local breweries (most of which offer brewery tours, incidentally). The liveliest spots include the Longhorn Saloon, at the base of Whistler Mountain. Anything goes here – be prepared to see plenty of dancing on the tables, and don’t be surprised when the bartender pulls out a champagne cannon to spray the crowd with fizz.
7. Espace Killy, France
Best for advanced snowboarders
Say hello to one of the world’s top ski regions, France’s Espace Killy – 299km (186 miles) of slopes, at a height of between 1548m (5080ft) and 3450m (11,318ft). Although there’s plenty for beginners and intermediates here, it’s a also magnet for daredevils who come to slash through the off-piste powder stashes of the Parc National de la Vanoise and test their freestyle skills in the snow parks (our favorite of which is the DC Park, which has chillout zones and free wifi for that all-important slopeside selfie). The biggest resorts are Tignes, where one of the most challenging runs is the 10km (6-mile) La Sache, which streaks from the top of the L’Aiguille Percée (meaning “the eye of the needle”), and Val d’Isère, where you can challenge yourself on the Face, a run which featured in the 1992 Winter Olympics, when Patrick Ortlieb took a mere two minutes to ski from top to bottom.
Europe’s coastlines and astounding beaches may get all the attention as summer comes, but the continent’s lakes should not be overlooked. Italy boasts glamorous, mountain-ringed waters, Croatia offers up saltwater sensations and England is home to moody pastoral scenes. Whether you want to swim, SUP, cycle or chill out on the beach, Europe has a lake for every kind of adventure.
We asked our expert writers to share their favorite lakes for a holiday in Europe — here are 12 of the best.
Lake Levico and Lake Caldonazzo, Italy
Recommended by Daniel James Clarke
Trentino’s legendary Lake Garda and cloud-defying Dolomites need little introduction. But hidden between these headliners is unsung Valsugana, harboring its pair of pristine rivals. Lake Levico (Lago di Levico), the smaller of the two, is a fjord-like fantasy: narrow, squeaky-clean waters flanked by sloping pines. Motorized water sports are prohibited, meaning the Blue Flag beach – Levico is one of Europe’s warmest lakes – and shore-tracking paths are soundtracked solely by birdsong. Embrace the stillness and go SUPing, gliding over mirror-like waters and sunken treasure – chests of sparkling Trentodoc wine mature twenty meters below. Meet the characterful brothers behind these aquatic vinos at Cantina Romanese for a scuba-free vineyard tasting.
Adrenaline needed? Cross to neighboring Lake Caldonazzo (Lago di Caldonazzo), where world champion Tomas Degasperi leads exhilarating waterski lessons. Back on dry land, iron-rich thermal spas, a stargazing observatory and the open-air forested sculpture gallery Arte Sella await. Then there’s all the food. Pizza, pasta and gelato are a given – lakeside Gelateria Bellavista is sweet-tooth heaven – but don’t overlook the regional Italian-Austrian flavors, such as canederli, cheese-stuffed bread dumplings. The best part? Unlike Italy’s upscale, mansion-lined lakes, Valsugana’s camping grounds, agriturismos (farm stays) and wellness resorts accommodate all budgets.
It’s big enough to resemble the seaside, and is fringed by picture-perfect villages and dotted with archaeological sites: Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is Italy in beautiful miniature. Its mild Mediterranean climate – the only one of Italy’s lakes to have one – means that fragrant lemon groves blossom by the shoreline, while hotels cling to the sunny cliffsides. There’s something for everyone here. Archaeology lovers will want to head to Sirmione, the snake-shaped peninsula jutting into the south of the lake, where there’s a Roman villa and spa on the waterfront; to go even further back in time, at the far north end, you’ll find the remains of 4,000-year-old huts at the tiny Lake Ledro, suspended in the mountains just behind the northwestern corner of Garda.
Fans of more recent history will be fascinated by the Vittoriale degli Italiani, the outré home of the controversial early 20th-century writer Gabriele d’Annunzio – the sprawling grounds contain a warship in the garden. If you want to visit towns and villages, there’s stately Desenzano del Garda, and pretty Lazise and Limone sul Garda. Leading northwards from Limone is a walkway and cycle path cantilevered over the still water. Want to get closer? Rent a boat to zip around the lake at will.
Central Europe’s second-largest freshwater body of water after Lake Geneva, Lake Constance laps at the borders of Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Its shores are encircled by a 260km cycle path that, combined with the use of cross-lake ferries, lets you experience all three countries in as little as a single day, making it one of the world’s most culturally fascinating lakes.
Vibrant arts hub Bregenz is the toast of the Austrian lakeside, with a cable car climbing to the 1064m peak of Pfänder for the most dramatic lake overview. Around German Lake Constance, ogle Pfahlbaumuseum Unteruhldingen, an open-air museum featuring reconstructed ancient lake dwellings, or the hulking fortress of Burg Meersburg with its drawbridge and dungeons. You can also voyage to Mainau near Konstanz, a garden island that dazzles with its Mediterranean flowers, elaborate topiaries and a Baroque castle. Sojourn to Switzerland’s swathe of the lake, stopping in at picturesque settlements like medieval Stein am Rhein with its winsome half-timbered buildings. Just because it’s rich in cultural experiences doesn’t mean the lake lacks in the delightful countryside: get away from it all by strolling vineyards near Meersburg or hiking hilly trails around Pfänder.
Can’t decide between lakeside or seafront? Consider Mljet – an island so enchanting Odysseus (of mythological fame) stayed for seven years. Homer’s Odyssey credits the nymph Calypso for his extended stint, but we’d like to believe the island’s two saltwater lakes did the trick – Malo Jezero (Little Lake) and Veliko Jezero (Big Lake). Take a boat trip on Veliko Jezero to Sveta Marija (St. Mary’s Island), where a 12th-century Benedictine monastery rises from the blue, or rent a kayak to paddle the perimeter at your own pace.
The real treat, however, is jumping in the water. Mljet’s lakes are warmer than the sea – particularly Malo Jezero. Dive deep enough and you can spot sea cucumbers, giant clams and the endemic Aurelia jellyfish – a harmless invertebrate. Both lakes line Mljet National Park – a 5400-hectare preserve thick with Aleppo pine and holm oak. Hiking the park makes a fine day trip from Dubrovnik (two hours away by ferry), but with a setting this seductive, you might wind up pulling an Odysseus. Plan on resting your head at the aptly named Hotel Odisej Mljet, which overlooks the Adriatic.
Lakes tend to be drop-dead gorgeous or loads of fun to splash around in — but rarely both. Slovenia solves this problem nicely with two incredible lakes – Bled and Bohinj – just 25 km (15 miles) apart. With its dramatic alpine backdrop, Lake Bled is the looker, while larger Lake Bohinj, lined by kayak and SUP-rental outfits, is the fun one (but truth be told, it’s a beautiful body of water as well).
Start your exploration with a walk around Lake Bled and a visit to grand Bled Castle. Hire a pletna, a wooden boat that resembles a Venetian gondola, and sail out to tiny, magical Bled Island. Before leaving, treat yourself to a piece of kremšnita, Bled’s legendary cream cake. The restaurant at Bled Castle makes a good one. Over at Lake Bohinj, in addition to swimming and kayaking, you can hike around the lake, rent bikes or even go horseback riding in the surrounding hills. Hotel Bohinj, a restored lodge at the lakeside hamlet of Ribčev Laz, is equal parts sumptuous and wacky, but spares no expense spoiling its guests. The chefs at Restaurant Triglav work wonders with locally sourced Bohinj trout, which diners often mistake for salmon because of the meat’s pinkish color.
One minute you’re gazing in wonder at the wild, snow-dusted French Alps, the next it’s as though you’ve been teleported to another time and place on the palm-rimmed, promenade-ribboned shores of Lac d’Annecy (Lake Annecy). A splash south of Geneva, this dazzler of a glacier-carved, spring-fed lake in Haute-Savoie is France’s third biggest and Europe’s purest (honestly, your bath water is no cleaner).
The town of Annecy at the lake’s northern cusp is the springboard for exploring, and my, is it pretty. The Vieille Ville is bedtime story stuff, with trickling canals and pastel-painted houses harboring enticing bistros, cafes and patisseries. And the cake-topper of a medieval castle, once home to the counts of Geneva, has 360° views over the rooftops to the Massif des Bauges that will make you audibly sigh. Good food? Mais oui…. Annecy has a galaxy of gourmet restaurants including three-Michelin-starred Le Clos des Sens. After a romantic stint in town, head to the lake to walk, mountain bike, swim, row, stand-up paddleboard, paraglide or simply crash on one of the beaches. The under-the-radar mountains of Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges and 1000-year-old Château de Menthon-St-Bernard make easy, memorable day trips.
Look at a map of Provence and you’ll find Lac de Sainte-Croix right at the center. The gateway to the dramatic Gorges du Verdon, aka the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” this man-made lake is France’s third largest. Its beauty lies not only in the shock of opaque turquoise water or the activities that can be enjoyed from its sandy shores (swimming, boating, windsurfing, pedalo-ing, canoeing, kayaking and more), but also the magazine cover-pretty villages that surround it that include Moustiers-Saintes-Maries, which clings to a mountain five kilometers away from the water’s edge and Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. If everything had gone according to plan when they flooded the Salles Valley to create the body of water in the late 1960s, the latter would have become inhabitable.
During the lavender season (mid-June to mid-July), combine a visit to Lac de Sainte-Croix with a day in the fields of the Plateau de Valensole, which starts a little bit further along the road north from Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon.
While neither are, strictly speaking, lakes — just look at their names — Buttermere and Crummock Water are the perfect places to experience the Lake District. Their remote-feeling location in the north of the national park, relative lack of facilities and distance from the park’s big-name mountains (Scafell Pike, Helvellyn and Great Gable) generally mean this is a quieter area than the busy south Lakes. And so much the better for anyone who does get here: the two bodies of water are fringed by towering mountains with only a few narrow lanes and dry stone-walled fields to suggest any man-made influence.
Pack your walking boots to get the most out of being here. If you’re arriving in Buttermere Valley via the steep twists of Honister Pass, access one of the best views in all of England by taking the short walk to the top of Fleetwith Pike from the Honister Slate Mine car park. Or if you’d prefer to remain at ground level, there’s an easy 4.2 mi / 6.7 km circular stroll around Buttermere. Both lakes are excellent for slightly chilly swims. However you spend a day — or more, if you come camping or stay at Buttermere YHA — here, a pint at the Fish Inn is the perfect sundowner. The 77 and 77A bus operate circular services for Buttermere Village from Keswick.
There’s one thing every visitor to Hawaii wants to do – hit the beach. And it makes sense since Hawaii’s beaches are among the best in the world. From powdery-white sands to otherworldly volcanic landscapes, from secluded coves to world-class surf breaks, the islands boast a variety of beachy escapes perfect for every traveler. All are open to the public below the high-tide line; there are no private beaches in Hawaii.
Here are our picks of the state’s best beaches, ordered by island.
1. Kailua Beach, Oʻahu
On Oʻahu’s windswept windward side, Kailua Beach is a beach lover’s paradise, with soft sands that stretch 2.5 miles long with the majestic Koʻolau Mountains as the backdrop. Its aquamarine waters are a fabulous playground – you’ll see people surfing, paddling canoes, swimming, kiteboarding, bodysurfing and kayaking here. And there’s so much space, you can easily find a spot to yourself.
On the east end of the beach, there’s a big parking lot, with restrooms and picnic pavilions. It’s also one of the few beaches on Oʻahu that’s dog friendly, so you’ll likely see four-legged friends running and playing in the sand. From the parking lot, it’s a short walk to nearby Lanikai Beach; this gorgeous beach is smaller and often more crowded than Kailua Beach, as people flock here to catch the sunrise over the twin Mokulua Islands.
Planning tip: The parking lot can fill up quickly, and finding a spot near a beach access point can be difficult. Consider renting a bike from the Bike Shop in Kailua Town. (There’s no city-run bike-sharing on this side of the island.) The shop has a range of cruisers, mountain bikes and road bikes for rent, complete with helmets and bike locks. Electra cruises – the most popular bike – start at $18 for up to four hours. You can book online and pick it up at the shop.
Surfers will not want to miss the legendary Waikiki Beach on O‘ahu. Shutterstock
2. Waikiki Beach, Oʻahu
Waikiki is the quintessential Hawaiian beach – sparkling waters, golden sand and so much to do at and around it. No wonder Hawaiian aliʻi (royalty) lived and played here! The legendary surfer and Olympian Duke Kahanamoku rode the waves in Waikiki, and you can learn how to surf here from a modern-day beach boy or girl. Ride rolling waves in an outrigger canoe or hop on a catamaran for a sunset sail.
There are several separate named beaches in Waikiki, from the picturesque Kaimana Beach by the 200-acre Kapiʻolani Park to the glistening sands of Duke Kahanamoku Beach, which boasts a kid-friendly lagoon in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Sip a mai tai at a beachside bar or take in afternoon tea at the historic Moana Surfrider. Everything – hotels, restaurants, boutiques, convenience stores, coffee shops, a zoo and aquarium – is within walking distance.
Planning tip: The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort puts on a fireworks show every Friday night. The resort has been doing this since 1988 (with a two-year break during the pandemic). Bring a picnic dinner and find a spot on the beach to watch the skies light up. The show starts at 7:45pm during the winter and 8pm in the summer.
3. Hanauma Bay, Oʻahu
One of the best places to snorkel on Oʻahu is Hanauma Bay, a protected nature preserve formed within an old volcanic crater on the southeast coast of the island. It’s practically an open-air aquarium, bustling with marine life. About 400 species of fish inhabit this bay — butterflyfish, tangs, surgeonfish, parrotfish, Moorish idols, wrasse — as do Hawaiian green sea turtles and the occasional monk seal. You can rent snorkel gear at the beach concession or bring your own. There are lifeguards, restrooms and a free tram that takes you from the parking lot to the beach.
Planning tips: Online reservations are required to visit Hanauma Bay. Spaces can sell out very quickly, so be online at 7am Hawai‘i Standard Time two days in advance of your intended visit when tickets are released. It costs $25 per person for non-Hawaii residents aged 13 years and older. Parking is another $3 per car and operates on a first come first serve basis. The bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Detour: Hanauma Bay is located near the residential town of Hawaiʻi Kai, where you can pick up snorkel gear and other beach supplies. A favorite stop is Kokonuts Shave Ice & Snacks in the nearby Koko Marina Center, where you can cool down with a rainbow shave ice or acai bowl. Even President Barack Obama, who’s from Hawaii, has been spotted here.
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4. Kawela Bay, Oʻahu
Locals and guests at the Turtle Bay Resort (recently transformed into a Ritz Carlton) on Oʻahu’s North Shore have known about this secluded bay for decades. The Trust for Public Land has protected 630 acres of this pristine coastal area to ensure it remains undeveloped and open to the public. The five-star resort does offer limited public parking and beach access, though you can also park along Kamehameha Highway about a mile south of the resort and walk through an opening in the fence. The hidden bay is often uncrowded – even empty! – and the waters are calm and great for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. You may even see a Hawaiian green sea turtle or an endangered monk seal. There are some sandy hiking trails along the beach.
Planning tip: See the bay from horseback. Turtle Bay Resort offers exclusive private and group trail rides along oceanfront trails that anyone can book. The ride is about 45 minutes long.
5. Sunset Beach, Oʻahu
Oʻahu’s fabled North Shore boasts 7 miles of some of the world’s best surf breaks, luring pro surfers to ride and spectators to witness winter’s monster waves. Sunset Beach – or Paumalū, its original Hawaiian name – is one of the largest stretches of sandy beach on this coastline, wide and spacious for all-day lounging. During the winter the ocean turns treacherous, with waves exceeding 30ft tall and conditions not suitable for swimming, but summer brings calm waters great for snorkeling (always check with lifeguards before venturing out, as ocean conditions can change unexpectedly). Sunsets here are pretty epic, too.
Detour: Less than a mile away is the trailhead to the ʻEhukai Pillbox Hike, a 2-mile roundtrip trek to the top of the northern side of the Koʻolau Mountains overlooking Sunset Beach. The views from the WWII bunkers are breathtaking; you can see nearly the entire North Shore coastline.
You’ll be able to find plenty of space on Big Beach in Makena State Park on Maui. Shutterstock
6. Makena Beach, Maui
Known as Big Beach (or Oneloa in Hawaiian) – and for good reason – Makena Beach on Maui spans two-thirds of a mile long and is 100ft wide in areas. That means there’s plenty of space to lay out on this scenic wildland beach and enjoy the sun and view of the offshore islet Molokini. Shore break here can get big, so use caution when venturing into the ocean. The big waves make it a popular spot for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. There’s an entry fee to the state-run Mākena State Park: $5 per person for non-Hawaii residents.
Detour: To the north of the beach, follow a trail over a rocky outcrop to Puʻu Ōlaʻi, or Little Beach. It’s far less crowded and popular among nudists.
7. Kāʻanapali Beach, Maui
Kāʻanapali Beach sprawls for 3 miles on Maui’s sunny western coastline – and it’s action-packed. Its turquoise ocean invites swimmers, surfers and snorkelers to frolic in its crystal-clear waters. In the winter months, you can watch migrating North Pacific humpback whales offshore. There’s a path that meanders along the beach, connecting resorts, restaurants and shops. Enjoy a cocktail at a beachside restaurant or watch the torch-lit cliff diving ceremony at Puʻu Kekaʻa, or Black Rock, which honors King Kahekili, the last chief of Maui. (Don’t jump off the rock yourself!)
Planning tip: The beloved Kāʻanapali Beach Resort has an oceanfront restaurant called Huihui. The menu weaves traditional ingredients with contemporary flavors – with an unrivaled view, especially at sunset. There’s also live music at night.
8. Hamoa Beach, Maui
Time stands still in Hana, a charming rural community in East Maui that sits at the end of the winding 52-mile Hana Highway. The daunting drive – it can take hours – means the beaches here are often secluded. Hamoa Beach is one of those idyllic spots, small but inviting and backed by a thick grove of hala (pandanus) trees. It offers a much-needed respite after that long drive.
Planning tip: Pause at the roadside stands dotted along the Road to Hana – which is what Hana Highway is known — to pick up small loaves of homemade banana bread, often made using the apple bananas that grow in this wet area.
Hulopoʻe Beach is one of Lanaʻi’s best spots for snorkeling. Alexander Howard/Lonely Planet
9. Hulopoʻe Beach, Lanaʻi
Fronting the luxe Four Seasons Resort Lanaʻi is Hulopo’e Beach, a pristine bay teeming with marine life and one of the best spots on the island for snorkeling. Despite its close proximity to the hotel, this beach feels secluded and undisturbed. Lounge on the white sands and have lunch on one of the picnic tables nearby, or use one of the barbecue grills. Kids will love the large tide pools located on the eastern side of the bay; they’re well-protected and calm enough for exploring. Sometimes you can see spinner dolphins playing in the bay.
Detour: Walk the short trail to Puʻu Pehe, aka Sweetheart Rock. Legend tells the story of a brokenhearted warrior who jumped from this 80ft summit, overcome with grief after his wife’s death. Sunsets here are very romantic.
10. Papohaku Beach, Molokaʻi
One of the longest white-sand beaches in Hawaii is found on Molokaʻi. Papohaku Beach, on the island’s western end, runs an uninterrupted 3 miles long. And since Molokaʻi receives the fewest visitors of any of other islands, you’ll likely have this beach – or at least parts of it – all to yourself. In the winter months, the ocean here can be treacherous for swimming, but the beach is perfect for long walks or languid picnics. On a clear day you can see Oʻahu across the Kaiwi Channel.
Local tip: There are no traffic signal lights on Molokaʻi, and only about 7000 people live on the island. And in addition to boasting one of the longest strands of beach in the state, Molokaʻi can also claim the tallest sea cliffs in the world, ranging between 3600 and 3900ft above sea level.
11. Poʻipu Beach, Kauaʻi
Poʻipu Beach is all about fun in the sun. This golden, crescent-shaped beach on Kauaʻi’s south shore is great for surfing, snorkeling, swimming and just splashing around. It’s close to resorts and restaurants, too. Kids will love the shallow tide pools and nearby grassy area with a fun play structure. You might see a Hawaiian green sea turtle swimming by or an endangered Hawaiian monk seal basking on the sand.
Planning tip: This beach is a great spot for sunsets. Enjoy a cocktail – try the Monkeypod Mai Tai with local rum and housemade macadamia nut orgeat or the No Kai Oi with local vodka and a honey-lilikoʻi purée – at the oceanfront the Beach House and delight in the spectacular view.
The beach at Hanalei Bay stretches for 2 miles along Kaua’i north shore. Steve Heap/Shutterstock
12. Hanalei Bay, Kauaʻi
Hanalei Bay is the stuff of Hawaiian vacation dreams. This expansive bay is backed by 4000ft emerald mountains – sometimes dotted with waterfalls – and stretches for 2 miles along Kaua’i north shore. During the winter months, big waves roll into this picturesque bay; summer brings more tranquil waters suitable for swimming. The white-sand beach opens up like arms reaching for a hug. No matter where you are on this beach you’ll have incredible views of ocean, mountains and lush valleys. No wonder it’s been the backdrop of Hollywood films like South Pacific (1958) and The Descendants (2011).
Nearby Hanalei Pier was built in 1892 and a popular spot for fishing, swimming and jumping. The wooden pier was lengthened in 1912 to 340ft and, in 1921, improved with a concrete deck. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in Hawaii in 1979.
13. ʻAnini Beach, Kauaʻi
Tucked away in a residential neighborhood on the north shore of Kauaʻi, ʻAnini Beach is a great alternative to the busier beaches on the south shore. The beach is protected by a long fringing reef that prevents large waves, even in the winter, from reaching shore, making this a great choice for families. Since it’s off the main highway, it doesn’t get as many visitors as other, more accessible beaches. You can camp here, too.
14. Hapuna Beach, Hawaiʻi the Big Island
One of the Big Island’s most expansive – and popular – beaches is Hapuna Beach along the island’s Kohala Coast. Its aquamarine waters and white sand is a stark contrast to the lava landscapes and jagged shorelines unique to this island. The beach is good for swimming, bodyboarding and sunbathing, and there’s enough room to find a quiet spot to lounge or read a book. The Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area has an entry fee of $5 per person and a $10 parking fee for non-Hawaii residents.
Planning tip: There are a handful of farmers markets in the nearby neighborhoods. On Wednesdays the Waimea Midweek Farmers Market boasts dozens of vendors selling hot food, fresh vegetables, jams, honey, coffee and other great local products. On Saturdays, the Kamuela Farmers Market features local produce and flowers, soaps, baked goods and hand-crafted jewelry. There’s live music, too.
Wander on the rare green sands of Papakōlea Beach on the Big Island. Getty Images
15. Papakōlea Beach, Hawaiʻi the Big Island
One of the most unique beaches in Hawaii is Papakōlea Beach, one of only four green sand beaches in the world and the only one in the US. The beach is located in a bay circled by Puʻu Mahana, a tuff ring that partially collapsed. The green sand is actually olivine, a silicate material and a common component of lava. While you can find olivine everywhere in the Islands – Lēʻahi (or Diamond Head) and Hanauma Bay, both on Oʻahu, are examples – nowhere else does it create a beach. It’s a two-hour drive from Kailua-Kona to the parking area, then a 2.5-mile trek to the actual beach. Don’t leave valuables in your car.
Planning tip: There are unofficial shuttles to the beach – some charge $20 per person – and you may feel pressured to take one. It’s up to you. It’s free to walk to the beach.
16. Punaluʻu Beach, Hawaiʻi the Big Island
There’s nothing more striking than Hawaii‘s black-sand beaches, formed by the volcanic activity that created the Hawaiian Islands. Punaluʻu Beach, on the southeastern Kaʻū coast of Hawaiʻi Island, is one of the most famous of these beaches. The surrounding coconut trees and bright green naupaka shrubs are striking against the shimmering, jet-black sands. Strong rip currents make this a dangerous place to swim, so enjoy it from your beach mat. Hawaiian green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles like to bask on the beach here, too.
Keep an eye out for Hawaiian green sea turtles at Kauna’oa Bay (Mauna Kea Beach). Greg Elms/Lonely Planet
17. Kaunaʻoa Beach, Hawaiʻi the Big Island
Conservationist and businessman Laurance Rockefeller “discovered” this beach back in 1960 while scouting for locations for a potential hotel. He built the Mauna Kea Beach Resort on this spot — solely because of this gorgeous beach. Now referred to as Mauna Kea Beach, the crescent-shaped Kaunaʻoa Bay boasts great snorkeling (on the north end) with loads of marine life, including Hawaiian green sea turtles. You don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy it, either; like all beaches in Hawaii, Kaunaʻoa is open to the public and there are 40 parking stalls set aside for non-guests.
Top tips for visiting the beach in Hawaii
Wear sunscreen and use reef-safe ones – other sunscreens can cause coral bleaching and kill the reef.
Put on sun protection like a hat and sunglasses
Pack a reusable water bottle and snacks that won’t melt in the hot sun.
It’s illegal to smoke or drink alcohol at any beach in Hawaii (and at state parks, too).
Always lock your car and hide your valuables.
Don’t leave trash – or anything – behind.
When in doubt, don’t go out. Conditions at sea can change quickly and unexpectedly. Check with lifeguards (if there are any) and look at ocean and weather forecasts.
Respect wildlife. It’s a felony under state law to touch, harass, harm or kill any endangered or threatened species, including Hawaiian monk seals and Hawaiian green sea turtles, with penalities of up to five years in prison and a $50,000 fine.
Beaches are usually packaged as sun, sea and sand, but visits to the coast don’t need to be limited to warm-weather days. Throw caution to the wind – quite literally – by embracing the dramatic dunes, impressive surf and rugged shores of these spectacular beaches that shine – even when the clouds come out.
Here’s our pick of the best beaches from around the world that are perfect in cold winter weather.
1. Kvalvika Beach, Lofoten Islands, Norway
Best remote beach
Arrive at Kvalvika Beach in the Lofoten Islands and you’ll feel like you’ve reached the end of the earth. But you’ll certainly have to put the work in to relish the feeling – this remote spot is only accessible via a 4km (2.5-mile) hike over 543m-high (1782ft) Ryten Mountain. Most astounding is the contrast of the sheer sea cliffs against the turquoise waters. You’ve walked miles, whipped by the elements, but after that first glimpse of ocean, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in the tropics.
Several hikes circle the mountain and its peak, and it’s worth climbing for the view alone. You’ll pass occasional sheep grazing against a panoramic backdrop of cliffs that appear to slide into the icy Norwegian Sea. The trail can be wet and slippery, so make sure you’re kitted out correctly. Set up camp anywhere you fancy along the green grassy ridges, wait for the sun to go down and, if luck is on your side, catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis (northern lights) streaking across the night sky.
Search for fossils along the rocky shores of Charmouth on England’s Jurassic Coast. Getty Images
2. Charmouth Beach, Dorset, United Kingdom
Best for fossil hunters
While it may not be the warmest beach to visit in winter, fossil finders will be happy to forget about taking a dip and stay on shore. Located on England’s Jurassic Coast, Charmouth Beach is famous for its abundance of fossils. If you want to get in on the action, the side west of the river is the best spot to search for prehistoric relics. But remember to keep your fossicking to the stones and rocks on the foreshore – no digging into the cliff face.
Get a sense of drama on the rocky black-sand shore at Iceland’s Reynisfjara Beach. Shutterstock
3. Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Iceland
Best beach with black sand
White-sand beaches are old news. When it comes to dramatic coastlines, the black basalt landscape at Reynisfjara wins hands down, any day. The beach can be accessed by foot from Iceland’s southernmost town, Vik, a 2½-hour drive from Reykjavík. Once there you can wander among some of the world’s most majestic and astonishing natural rock formations on jet-black sand.
Adding to the already ghostly atmosphere, Reynisfjara Beach comes with its own folk tale. Legend has it that trolls pulled a ship to land here but, in a stroke of bad luck, daylight turned them to stone in the form of imposing sea stacks.
On a happier note, the beach is also home to a puffin colony. There are viewing platforms, but you’re equally as likely to spot the birds nesting, flying or bobbing on the waves.
A visit to the Île de Ré beach of Conche des Baleines is much more peaceful in the winter months. Getty Images
4. Plage de la Conche des Baleines, Île de Ré, France
Best beach for winter sunsets
This gorgeous and tiny island off France’s Atlantic coast is a picture-perfect vision of southern France, complete with whitewashed buildings, terracotta roofs and a relaxed atmosphere. In July and August, the place is packed and it’s hard to find somewhere to stay.
Luckily, combing the coastline for seashells is just as beautiful in winter as it is in summer – and far less busy. There are bikes for hire in the villages, which can see you winding along quiet cycle paths through pine groves on the edge of the sand. And, most importantly, the legendary sunsets are a spectacular sight all year round.
Inchydoney Beach near Clonakilty is perfect for cold weather. Getty Images
5. Inchydoney Beach, West Cork, Ireland
Best beach for rock pools
Ireland’s coastline is all about rugged rock formations, with relentless waves crashing upon jagged boulders and rocky outcrops provide the dramatic setting for world-renowned wonders like Skellig Michael and the Giant’s Causeway. But why not go against the grain, and discover the country’s equally breathtaking, and arguably more scenic, sandy stretches?
Looking out bravely toward the Atlantic, Inchydoney is a beach that Cork is proud of. The smooth, vast curve of sand on Inchydoney Island is connected to the land by two grassy causeways. Come here in autumn or winter for an umbrella-in-hand day out to explore rock pools with the family or, if you’re feeling brave, to surf.
Before you get completely soaked, you’ve got a well-stocked selection of pubs to take shelter in over at neighboring Clonakilty, including famed De Barra’s Folk Club, with hearty pints and local trad (traditional music) sessions to warm the cockles.
Bring a spade and keep toasty warm in your own personal hot pool on New Zealand’s Hot Water Beach. Naruedom Yaempongsa/Shutterstock
6. Hot Water Beach, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
Best beach for natural hot pools
Okay, this one might be a sly addition. But Hot Water Beach, located on the far reaches of New Zealand’s paradisiacal Coromandel Peninsula, is one of the very few places where you can sink into natural hot pools in the sand even when it’s chilly. Geothermal activity means the water underneath is still warm even when it’s below 15ºC (59ºF) outside. While a free, homemade hot tub on the beach isn’t likely to be your little secret, the best part about this spot for cold-weather enthusiasts is that chillier days usually mean fewer crowds.
Don a swimsuit, bring a spade and dig yourself a personal hot pool in the sand. The water can reach around 60ºC (140ºF), so bear in mind that if you visit in winter your surrounding environs will seem much colder. Make sure you check the tide charts too – you won’t want the sea rushing in mid-spa, although it can be refreshing to feel the whip of cold air and ocean spray at a safe distance. Sink into your steaming hot tub and watch the powerful surf from afar.
Take a horseback ride through the mist of Cannon Beach, Oregon. Adam Hester/Shutterstock
7. Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA
Best beach for an atmospheric horseback ride
If you want moody and atmospheric, this is it. For a beach that sits on the US’s Pacific Coast, it sure does buck sun-kissed, palm-fringed expectations. The Beaver State’s Cannon Beach is home to Haystack Rock, a giant formation that sticks out like a sore thumb along a distinctly misty coastline. It’s an optimal choice for dog walking and reflective strolls as it does get chilly, even in the summer, so you’ll want to keep moving.
Want a dash of the Wild West with your waterfront wanderings? Throw in some adventure and saddle up. There’s no better way to experience the Oregon coastline than on horseback, and nearby riding schools offer both daytime and sunset rides. The town of Cannon Beach itself is as charming as can be, and large chains have been prevented from opening here to preserve its quaintness.
Come to Cox Bay on Vancouver Island for stunning winter sunsets and atmospheric stormy weather. Sara Winter/Shutterstock
8. Cox Bay Beach, Tofino, Canada
Best beach during stormy weather
You won’t have to look far to find the ideal cold-weather beach in Tofino, a small westerly town on Vancouver Island. The stormy weather here is a genuine tourist attraction – a favorite pastime in Tofino is storm watching. So which beach is best for the thunder-hungry visitor? Chesterman might be Tofino’s most popular, but Cox Bay will cater to your windy and wild beach needs.
With panoramic views of the stormy Pacific Ocean and driftwood dotting the white sands, a stroll down Cox Bay takes you along a picturesque, forest-adjacent boardwalk. It’s also a great spot for fairly experienced surfers – when the waves surrounding Tofino are big, you’ll find them even bigger at Cox Bay.
During a “storm watch period,” hole up in one of the storm-proof hotels and restaurants, such as Long Beach Lodge or Cox Bay Beach Resort, that line the shorefront. Keep warm and catch lightning shows from your window, or witness those surfing the huge swells from a hot tub overlooking the beach.
From vast belts of golden sand and rolling surf to under-the-radar bays, beaches in Wales are plentiful and delightfully unspoiled. No need to hold out for blazing sunshine: these beauties are spectacular whatever the weather, so long as you’re wearing the right clothing. If you’re looking for the crowd-free Welsh coast experience, traveling outside peak season is ideal.
Ready to kick off your shoes and sink your toes into the sand? Here are some of the best beaches in Wales.
Rhossili Bay, Gower
Best beach for surfers
With a list of accolades almost as long as its shoreline, Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula is arguably the best beach in Wales. Its broad, three-mile stretch of golden sand and rolling surf – the scale of which is best admired from the surrounding heather-clad cliff tops – is overlooked by the Old Rectory, a pretty, whitewashed cottage owned by the National Trust (good luck getting a lodging reservation). Waves are consistent year-round. Beginners are better off sticking to the slightly sheltered southern end, while more experienced surfers should head north for bigger swells. Swing by PJ’s Surf Shop in Llangennith for board rentals.
Porth Iago, Llŷn Peninsula
Best beach for wild(ish) camping
The narrow inlet and surrounding grassy headlands mean little Porth Iago is well sheltered, with clear and calm waters. Local farmers charge a small fee for parking and camping. Although they’ve upgraded their facilities to include toilets and running water, it’s still a pretty wild place to set up your tent. The beach’s bigger but equally beautiful sister, Porth Oer, is an hour or so’s walk south along the Wales Coast Path.
South Pembrokeshire’s most raved-about beach, Barafundle Bay, would be Goldilocks’ dream beach: not too big, not too small, never too hot (this is Wales, after all), with a location that’s juuuust right. It’s only accessible on foot via the Wales Coast Path and a set of steep stone stairs, but the masses still make it their mission to get here come summer. If you want to soak up the scene in seclusion, try visiting on a weekday out of season.
Mwnt, Cardigan
Best beach for dolphin spotting
This “hidden” cove might no longer be a local secret, but time it right (early morning or out of season) and you could still have it all to yourself. Don’t miss a walk up Foel y Mwnt, the conical hill that gave the beach its name, while keeping an eye out for frolicking porpoises and dolphins. During seal-breeding season (August to December), you might even spot some fluffy pups on the sand, but be sure to keep your distance.
Whether you travel with surf-mad teens, sand-eating toddlers, grandparents who love to ramble or all of the above, popular Whitesands Bay has everything you need for a fun family day out at the beach. The slipway is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, and there are bathrooms and a cafe. Once you’ve had your fill of rockpools and body boarding, hike to the summit of nearby Carn Llidi or take the (seasonal) shuttle bus to St Davids.
Llanddwyn Beach, Anglesey
Best beach for romantics
Llanddwyn Beach (also known as Newborough Beach) could easily be mistaken for a slice of the Oregon coast or a far-flung Norwegian island, thanks to its abundant pines and away-from-it-all feel. Nearby lies Llanddwyn Island, where the Welsh patron saint of lovers St. Dwynwen once lived. When the tide is out, it’s worth walking there with your loved one to soak up the dreamy views or even propose – it’s a popular spot to pop the question.
Castle Beach, Tenby
Best beach for island hoppers
The seaside town of Tenby has three sandy beaches on its doorstep, but compact Castle Beach, flanked by two hilltop ruins, is the most interesting. Time your visit with low tide so you can walk to St Catherine’s Island and wander its eerie 19th-century fort. Boats to Caldey Island also depart from here when the main harbor is dry. When the water’s out, it’s also possible to walk along the shore to the temporarily adjoining Tenby South Beach.
Harlech’s huge beach is overlooked by a Unesco-listed castle (it’s just a quarter-mile walk away) and backdropped by the distant peaks of Snowdonia National Park. The four-mile-long expanse of sand is often empty, and the shape-shifting dunes that trim the shoreline are home to an array of wildlife.
Three Cliffs Bay, Gower
Best beach for photographers
Three jagged limestone cliffs protruding from the sand like shark teeth give this Gower beach its name – and photographers the perfect subject come sunset. Backed by rolling dunes and only accessible by foot, it still feels wild despite its popularity and proximity to Swansea. Resist the temptation to go for a dip in the off-season – the currents are deceptively strong, and swimming without a lifeguard present is not advised.
Cefn Sidan, Carmarthenshire
Best beach for spotting shipwrecks
At eight miles, Cefn Sidan is the longest beach in Wales and is backed by a network of wildlife-rich dunes, a thick pine forest and family-friendly Pembrey Country Park. The flat powder-fine sands are said to hide up to 300 old shipwrecks, some of which can be seen at low tide, including SV Paul, which ran aground here almost 100 years ago.
Llandudno Beach, Conwy
Best beach for a classic day at the seaside
Punch and Judy. Fish and chips. Amusement arcades on the pier. Llandudno Beach (also known as North Shore) is the quintessential retro British seaside resort. When you’re tired of skipping stones and protecting your ice cream from greedy seagulls, make your way to the top of the Great Orme headland for spectacular 360-degree views. You might also like: How to spend a weekend in Anglesey The 10 most beautiful hikes in Wales Introducing Wales’ epic national parks
Manga comics, blazing neon, speeding trains, supersized pedestrian crossings – Japan might not immediately inspire a vision of traditional romance, but don’t be fooled. With subtropical beaches, soothing hot springs and an array of world-class food, it’s easy for lovers to be seduced by this extraordinary country.
Stealing a kiss in Tokyo. Daniele Boffelli / 500px
Fast fun in Tokyo – and its antidote in Fuji
For couples, there’s something undeniable about Tokyo: it simply insists you have fun. Warble your hearts out in a karaoke booth for two, watch the sunset over the city from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observatory, cruise Tokyo Bay aboard Jicoo the Floating Bar, or get cosy in the alleyways and tiny drinking dens of Shinjuku’s Golden Gai. If sanctity calls, head to the Dai-jingū shrine, where couples seek good luck in love.
Eat
You won’t go hungry in the capital: Tokyo has more restaurants per capita than any other city on the planet. For sheer indulgence, head to Tokyo Aman’s 33rd-floor restaurant (aman.com) for exquisite fusion food: think melt-in the-mouth wagyū (Japanese beef) accompanied by buttery Brussels sprouts, with a side order of jaw-dropping views. For a more simple old-world atmosphere closer to ground level, try Hantei, serving kushiage (skewers of fried meat, fish and vegetables) in an historic wooden building designated as an important cultural property.
Stay
The Fuji Five Lakes region is just an hour’s train ride from the capital and unlocks incredible views of Japan’s most iconic mountain. While Mt Fuji can be climbed in summer, it’s arguably best appreciated from afar. Stay at Hoshinoya Fuji, where floor-to-ceiling windows in snug cabins encourage mountain-gazing in complete seclusion. With woodland tours, horse-riding and mushroom-picking, this place offers bucolic romance, but if all that sounds too energetic, simply toast some marshmallows and lounge in a hammock strung between scented pines. If you can’t drag yourselves away from the action of Tokyo, boutique Hotel S offers stylish rooms right near the nightlife of Roppongi, including a ‘Zen’ room with a circular wooden bath.
A taste of tradition in Kyoto and Osaka
It doesn’t take much for romance to blossom in Kyoto. This ancient city of silent temples and winding lanes feels ready-made for hand-in-hand exploring. Find your happy place amid the gentle sway of Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove (arrive early to avoid the crowds), or be enchanted by the Fushimi Inari-Taisha torii (shine gates), where a detour from the main trail means having the quiet woodland all to yourselves. In the evening, take a stroll along the cobbled, lantern-lit streets of traditional geisha district Gion, or contemplate your love while walking the canalside Path of Philosophy.
Stay
Kyoto is known for its ryokan (traditional inns), unmissable for visitors keen to enjoy the country’s legendary hospitality. Kyoto boasts some of the most refined ryokan in the country, such as the intimate and welcoming Tawaraya, a 300-year-old inn unrivalled for its attentive staff and profound sense of calm. Here each small room looks out onto its own private garden, guests bathe in cedar-wood hot tubs, and staff quietly polish and scent your shoes while you shuffle about the ryokan in pillow-soft slippers. For a longer stay and completely private getaway, you could instead rent a floor in your own machiya (wooden townhouse). Old Kyoto has three houses to choose from, all close to Gion.
Eat
In Kyoto, kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine) reigns supreme. This fine-dining experience involves being served a parade of small dishes carefully chosen based on the season, usually including vegetables, tempura, pickles, fish and soup. Kikunoi is one of the best places to try it. For a more purse-friendly option, go to Tagoto Honten; the lunch menu offers a great introduction to this intimate style of cuisine. Those who prefer more casual dining can head to the nearby city of Osaka, 30 minutes by fast train from Kyoto. More casual doesn’t have to mean lacking in atmosphere, though: take a stroll on the Tombori River Walk alongside Dōtombori canal while grazing lazily on street-stall takoyaki (grilled octopus dumplings); or try to nab a seat overlooking the canal at okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) restaurant Chibō, where the house special Dōtombori yaki (with pork, beef, squid, shrimp and cheese) is something of an institution.
Rural tranquility in Wakayama Prefecture
Get off the beaten track with one of Japan’s most enticing ancient pilgrimage routes, the Kumano Kodō, about three hours by train south of Osaka, in Wakayama Prefecture. This region is lovely year-round and enjoys more temperate climes that other parts of central Honshū. Through pine forests, tiny villages, waterfalls and hidden shrines, the walk is a verdant delight from start to end with routes available from a day to a week. Kumano Travel (tb-kumano.jp/en/kumano-travel), a government-led and community-based initiative, can help arrange itineraries. Alternatively, head to the mountaintop monastic centre of Kōya-san. It might not sound like a lovers’ paradise, but its extraordinary temple lodgings, eerie forested cemetery and grand pagodas will furnish you with a whole new perspective on devotion. Arriving via the vertiginous cable car is half the fun.
Stay
At Kawayu Onsen Fujiya, couples too shy to bare all in traditional communal onsen (where nudity is obligatory) can opt for a room with a private bath perched on its balcony. Or go public and take the plunge in the river directly in front of the ryokan, where hot-spring water bubbles up enticingly.
Eat
Overnight visitors to Kōya-san will sample shōjin ryōri, a Buddhist vegetarian style of cooking that focuses on balance and simplicity. Dishes might include silken tofu with sesame paste and wasabi, or crispy aubergine topped with caramelised miso. Monks deliver supper to your personal chamber and retreat from sight, leaving you alone to marvel from your tatami mats at their edible masterpieces.
Beach bumming on Okinawa and the Southwest Islands
Surprisingly under-the-radar, Okinawa’s sandy stretches and coral-fringed waters are the backdrop to a culture emphatically more laid-back and slower-paced than that of ‘mainland’ Japan. A short flight from main city Naha on Okinawa-hontō, the Keramas are tiny white-sand islands in crystal waters; while the more remote Yaeyamas offer wilder experiences, with lush mangrove swamps and jungles to explore. Unesco-listed Yakushima, further north, is famed for its mountainous interior covered with mossy ancient cedar trees.
Tropical lagoon bay with crystal clear blue water, Kabira Bay Beach, Ishigaki Island. Ippei Naoi / Getty Images
Stay
Tsundara Beach Retreat on Ishigaki-jima in the Yaeyamas is a dream for those wanting to get away from it all. Nestled between ocean and forest, its tropical ambience, sun-drenched terrace and private beach will have you falling in love all over again. Activities range from diving and snorkelling to ziplining through the jungle canopy. And it’s exclusive: you’ll have the whole place to yourselves. On Yakushima, watch the waves from your private veranda, and soak in the outdoor bath at family-run ryokan Sōyōtei. Or go for full pampering at Sankara Hotel & Spa.
Eat
Get a taste of island-style Japanese cuisine on Ishigaki-jima with a wander through Ishigakijima Village, a collection of small restaurants, including some serving local specialities such as Ishigaki beef and Okinawa soba (thick white udon noodles in a pork broth). Follow it up with a sip of awamori (Okinawan liquor distilled from rice) or beer at cosy local favourite Cafe Taniwha. In Naha, opt for a multicourse evening meal at hilltop Nuchigafu,
A little more action in Hokkaidō
Less about admiring temples and gazing at each other across a raked Zen garden, Hokkaidō is for couples who like to play together. Japan’s northernmost island is home to miles of wilderness, mountains, and volcanic landscapes dotted with bubbling onsen, but most come here for a different reason: powder. In winter, skiers and snowboarders head for Niseko and Furano, and in February crowds gather at Sapporo Snow Festival’s wonderland of snow sculptures. In the summer months, it’s all about hiking in national parks, including Shiretoko, Akan, and Japan’s largest, Daisetsuzan.
Sun sets over lake Akanko, Akan National Park, Hokkaidō. kecl / Getty Images
Stay
Enjoy the warm timbered decor and onsen at Lodge Nutapukaushipe in Daisetsuzan, or the lake views and artwork at Marukibune in the Ainu village in Akan. For the novelty factor: in January and February snuggle together at the Ice Hotel at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu (snowtomamu.jp), in central Hokkaidō. There’s even an Ice Chapel next door if you make plans to tie the knot on your trip.
Eat
The homely lamp-lit, arts-and-crafts-bedecked Poronno in Akan is a top place to try some Ainu specialities, including potato dumplings and preserved venison. In ski-resort Niseko, head to popular Niseko Loft Club to bond over a shared platter of grill-your-own meat.
Jessica Cole travelled to Japan with support from Aman Tokyo (aman.com) and Kumano Travel (kumano-travel.com). Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
There is simply no way you could tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, fascinating history, rich culture, fabulous food, world-changing art and dazzling diversity. From sun-smooched islands to secret corners, there’s always somewhere new to discover.
Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw. Who hasn’t dreamed of seeing Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s graceful canals, Paris’ Napoleonic splendor, and the multilayered historical and cultural canvas of London? And winter adds an extra layer of magic to many of Europe’s greatest cities.
Outdoors types will be spoiled for choice – the continent is blessed with a dizzying diversity of natural scenery, from rugged Scottish Highlands dotted with glens and lochs and the snow-capped mountains of the Alps to the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence and the island-speckled coastlines of the Adriatic and Aegean. And those are just a few of the highlights.
Some of Europe’s most popular spots have felt the effects of tourism in recent years, as increasing visitor numbers have impacted local populations, services and historic sites. But with some smart decision-making and forward planning, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime. Here are 33 of the best places to visit in Europe in 2025.
Take in iconic views of London from Tower Bridge, the city’s most famous river crossing. Alexander Spatari/Getty Images
1. London, UK
London is mercurial and endlessly fascinating. You could spend a lifetime getting to know it, then realize the city has gone and changed again. Stretching back from the mighty River Thames, its lush parks and historic districts are crammed with extraordinary sights – from royal palaces and towering cathedrals to remarkable museums and galleries. Add some of the world’s top theaters, restaurants, sports venues and shops, and you’ll be very reluctant to leave.
Travelers who want to dive deeper into London will be rewarded by exploring its varied and characterful neighborhoods, taking in the cool clubs of Shoreditch or the picturesque streets of Notting Hill. With more time, tack on a day trip to explore nature in the New Forest, admire the Roman ruins of Bath, or soak up the creativity of Brighton.
2. Venice, Italy
A bright winter’s day, with crisp sunshine and far fewer tourists around, is the perfect time to lap up Venice’s unique and magical atmosphere. Ditch your map and wander the shadowy back lanes of Dorsoduro while imagining secret assignations and whispered conspiracies at every turn. Then visit two of Venice’s top galleries, the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which house works by many giants of Italian and European art.
In recent years, Venice has struggled under the pressures of mass tourism, and visitors should brush up on how to be mindful while traveling in this gorgeous but fragile city. A new entry fee for day-trippers may inspire people to stay longer, which is one way to get a deeper understanding of this incredible city.
The Eiffel Tower is the defining feature of the Paris skyline. Michal Bednarek/500px
3. Paris, France
Designed as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World Fair), the elegant, iconic Eiffel Tower has become the defining fixture of the Paris skyline. In fact, it’s hard to imagine a city more iconic than the City of Light. From legendary culinary offerings and alluring nightlife to a seemingly endless selection of museums, galleries and flea markets, Paris is a travel dream made real.
Spend your days wandering through the city’s 20 intriguing arrondissements (districts), or head further afield on a day trip to Monet’s garden at Giverny or Marie Antoinette’s former home at Versailles. Whatever you do, it’ll be a trip to remember.
4. Rome, Italy
From the crumbling Colosseum to the ancient Forum and the timeless Via Appia Antica, few sights are more evocative than the ruins of ancient Rome. Two thousand years ago, this city was the center of the greatest empire of the ancient world, where gladiators battled and emperors lived in unimaginable luxury. Nowadays, its ancient sites have a haunting mystery; as you walk the cobbled paths, you can almost sense the ghosts in the air.
But don’t miss the city’s contemporary side. Shop for hip handbags or handmade jewelry in Rome’s coolest independent boutiques. Rub shoulders with locals over aperitivo (pre-meal drinks) at trendy bars or check out the street art in neighborhoods such as Ostiense and San Lorenzo. In a city that’s been around for thousands of years, there are always plenty of new treasures to find.
Berlin is a dynamic, modern city studded with reminders of a divided past. Eddy Galeotti/Shutterstock
5. Berlin, Germany
Nearly 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, it’s hard to believe that this most cosmopolitan of cities once marked one of the key frontiers in the Cold War. But reminders of Berlin’s divided past remain. Whether you’re passing the Brandenburg Gate, gazing at graffiti-covered sections of the old Berlin Wall at East Side Gallery or studying the exhibits at the DDR Museum, it’s an essential part of understanding the forces that have shaped Germany’s capital. From the past to the future – be sure to soak up the city’s amazing modern touches, like its iconic club culture, unique independent shops and cool neighborhoods.
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s main claim to fame is its historic city wall, considered among the grandest in the world, which surrounds luminous marble streets and finely ornamented buildings. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the walls are still remarkably intact, and the vistas over the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea are sublime, especially at dusk, when the fading light makes the hues dramatic and the panoramas unforgettable.
The city’s prominent role in the TV series Game of Thrones has caused a massive surge in visitors – and in the number of tours taking people to all the starring spots. But travelers can still get to know the real Dubrovnik by diving deeper into its top attractions and wandering outside of the Old Town.
Prague’s Old Town swims with historic grandeur. Pauline Lewis/Getty Images
7. Prague, Czechia
The capital of Czechia (formerly Czech Republic), Prague is one of Europe’s most alluring and dynamic cities. For all its modern verve, some parts of town have hardly changed since medieval times. Cobbled cul-de-sacs twist and turn, framed by teetering townhouses, baroque buildings and graceful bridges.
If castles are your thing, Prague has an absolute beauty: a 1000-year-old fortress covering around 7 hectares (17 acres) – the world’s largest ancient castle complex. The Old Town is where you’ll find many of the city’s quintessential attractions, but you’ll be rewarded for exploring other intriguing neighborhoods – which also happen to be where you’ll find many of the city’s best restaurants.
8. Vienna, Austria
The monumentally graceful Hofburg palace whisks you back to the age of empires in Vienna. You can marvel at the treasury’s imperial crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Riding School and chandelier-lit apartments once occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth. The palace, a legacy of the 640-year-long Habsburg Empire, is rivaled in grandeur only by the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the baroque Schloss Belvedere, both set in exquisite gardens.
Amsterdam is at its most evocative when viewed from the water. Getty Images
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands
To say residents of Amsterdam love the water is an understatement. Take a stroll beside the canals and check out the thousands of houseboats, or take a canal boat ride, and you’ll soon understand why. From the water, you’ll notice a whole new set of architectural details, such as the ornamentation bedecking the city’s famous bridges. Each time you pass an appealing canalside cafe terrace, mark the location for a later return.
Getting around in Amsterdam is a breeze, making it an ideal city for exploring hip neighborhoods in search of the best things to eat and drink. While there’s always plenty to do in Amsterdam, sometimes the best experiences come from slowing down, skipping the tourist sights, and soaking up the city vibe.
10. Budapest, Hungary
Along both sides of the romantic Danube River, with the Buda Hills to the west and the start of the Great Plain to the east, Budapest is perhaps the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe. Parks brim with attractions, the architecture is second to none, museums are filled with treasures, pleasure boats sail up and down the scenic Danube Bend, Baroque and Turkish-era thermal baths billow steam and the city’s nightlife throbs till dawn.
See designs by Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, including his masterpiece, La Sagrada Família. Sylvain Sonnet/Getty Images
11. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is famous for its Modernista architecture, including the iconic buildings of Antoni Gaudí. His masterpiece is the mighty cathedral La Sagrada Família, which remains a work in progress close to a century after its creator’s death. It’s a bizarre combination of crazy and classic – Gothic touches intersect with eccentric experimental flourishes and improbable angles. Even half-completed, it’s a modern-day wonder.
Of course, there’s much more to the Catalonian capital than its most famous church. Barcelona heaves with tapas restaurants, art museums and history-steeped neighborhoods – not to mention its incredible beaches. The city has been in the spotlight due to the high visitor numbers and the impact on local communities, so make sure you understand the issues before you go.
12. Lisbon, Portugal
The district of Alfama, with its labyrinthine alleyways, hidden courtyards and curving, shadow-filled lanes, is a magical place to lose all sense of direction and delve into Lisbon’s soul. On the journey, you’ll pass breadbox-sized grocers, brilliantly tiled buildings and views of steeply pitched rooftops leading down to the glittering Tagus River. Pause at cozy taverns filled with easygoing chatter, with the scent of chargrilled sardines and the mournful rhythms of fado drifting in the breeze, and toast the city with a glass of Portugal’s famous port wine.
The Scottish Highlands call out to be explored on foot or on a thrilling road trip. Joe Dunckley/Shutterstock
13. The Scottish Highlands
Whether you explore on foot, by rail, or on a thrilling road trip, breathtaking views abound in the Scottish Highlands. From the regal charm of Royal Deeside to the brooding majesty of Glen Coe and the mysterious waters of sweeping Loch Ness, these are landscapes that inspire awe. The region is scattered with fairy-tale castles and the hiking is suitably glorious. Add in the Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and romantic country hotels, and you’re guaranteed to forge memories in this unforgettable corner of Scotland.
14. Dublin, Ireland
Whether you’re wandering around the leafy Georgian terraces of St Stephen’s Green or getting acquainted with the past at Kilmainham Gaol or Trinity College, you’re never far from a literary or historic sight in Dublin. Then there are the city’s pubs: there are few better places to down a pint than Dublin. You can even make a pilgrimage to the original Guinness brewery. Either way, you’ll surely make a few Irish friends along the way.
The beauty of Florence and Tuscany is the stuff of legend. Getty Images
15. Florence and Tuscany, Italy
The undulating hills of Tuscany, bathed in golden light and dotted with vineyards, sum up Italy’s attractions in a nutshell. Here, picture-perfect hilltop towns vie with magnificent scenery and some of Italy’s best food and wine. Experiencing Tuscany for the first time is one of Europe’s great pleasures. Seek out the famed vintages of Chianti and stroll the evocative main square of historic Siena.
Then there’s Florence – aah, Firenze! – home to what Unesco describes as “the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world.” The Tuscan capital is packed with blockbuster museums, elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes. Naturally, a city this iconic also heaves with crowds, so make sure you plan your trip around the best times to visit.
16. Copenhagen, Denmark
Scandinavia is all about pared-back contemporary style – something that the Danish capital has in spades. Home to a thriving design scene, Copenhagen has Michelin-starred restaurants, hipster cafes and bars and swoon-worthy boutiques around every corner. Add in top-class museums and galleries and a 1000-year-old harbor with handsome historic architecture and you have the perfect Scandi city break.
While Copenhagen is known for being expensive, there are ways to budget for your trip and plenty of free things to do in the city. Strolling around and soaking up the atmosphere won’t cost you a Danish krone.
Admire the incredible architecture of the Alhambra in historic Granada. Victor Torres/Stocksy
17. Andalucía, Spain
Andalucía – al-Andalus in Moorish times – is awash with glorious architecture spanning eight centuries of Islamic rule in Spain and all the centuries since. Granada, Córdoba and Seville are the high points of a journey of extraordinary riches. In Granada, the palace complex of the Alhambra comes close to perfection, and is perhaps one of the most impressive works of Islamic architecture anywhere in the world. For many, this is Spain’s signature monument.
18. Ruins of Pompeii, Italy
Frozen in its death throes, the sprawling, time-warped ruins of Pompeii near Naples hurtle visitors 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets and duck into lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters and even an ancient brothel. Then, in the eerie stillness, with your eye on the ominous profile of Mt Vesuvius, ponder the town’s final hours when the skies grew dark with choking volcanic ash. One of the most intriguing experiences in this ancient city is investigating the ongoing excavations, which continue to shed new light on life in 79 CE.
Wander up the famous Rainbow Street in downtown Reykjavik. Finn Hafemann/Getty Images
19. Reykjavík, Iceland
More than half of the population of Iceland live in Reykjavík – a city smaller than Anchorage, Alaska – but even on the shortest visit you’ll be struck by the quirky character and creativity of the population. Despite being on the northern margins of Europe, on an island sculpted by volcanoes and ice, locals have forged a city packed with captivating art, rich cuisine and energetic nightlife, hosting an epic music scene. Learn about a history stretching back to Viking times and use the city as a base for trips to Iceland’s amazing natural wonders.
Provence is the France you’ve always imagined, dotted with postcard-perfect hilltop villages. iStock
20. Provence, France
For many people, the pastoral landscapes of Provence are a French fantasy brought to life. Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, legendary wines, bustling markets and long, balmy evenings, perfect for enjoying the good life. For decades, the villages of Provence have been hot spots for vacationers and second-homers, inspired by a dreamy vision of rustic living.
Seek out the postcard-perfect view of lavender fields and medieval cloisters at the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque or grab an espresso among the students hanging out in Aix-en-Provence. Whatever you do, eating, drinking and living well will surely be on the menu.
21. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The stirring ramparts of the Swiss Alps grace chocolate bar wrappers and muesli packets, but nothing prepares you for the magic of seeing these mountains up close. The most famous summit, the Matterhorn, is a mesmerizing wedge of rock and ice that looms above the timber-chalet-filled village of Zermatt. Gaze at it from a tranquil cafe, hike in its shadow along the tangle of alpine paths above town with cowbells clinking in the distance, or pause on a ski slope and admire its craggy, chiseled outline.
Stand in awe of Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, one of the city’s grandest monuments. Getty Images
22. Istanbul, Türkiye
Serving stints as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities, and an ancient crossroads of civilizations. This is true now more than ever with the growing profile of its main international airport. The historical highlights cluster in the district of Sultanahmet – where you’ll find the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace and Grand Bazaar – with the vast Süleymaniye Mosque crowning a hilltop in Eminönü.
After soaking up Ottoman sights, dive into the city’s characterful neighborhoods, such as cool Kadıköy, with its coffee shops and independent art galleries, or go antique shopping in Fener and Balat. You can even use Istanbul as a base for day trips to explore the wine region of Thrace or the coastal villages of the Black Sea.
23. Athens, Greece
Greece has ancient monuments at seemingly every turn, but it’s in Athens where this ancient empire’s greatest and most iconic monuments stand proud. High on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city, the Acropolis epitomizes the glory of ancient Greece, with its graceful Parthenon and 17,000-seat Theatre of Dionysos. Other impressive ruins littering this vibrant city include the Temple of Olympian Zeus and two agoras (marketplaces) – one Greek, one Roman – mingling with first-rate museums.
When you’ve had your fill of architectural magnificence, fill up on Athens’ culinary brilliance, sampling local delights such as lukumades (crisp dough balls) and souvlaki kebabs. The city is also flush with great beaches, and pine-covered islands, atmospheric ancient sites and rugged hiking trails are only a day trip away. Just be alert to the heat – recent years have seen soaring summer temperatures linked to climate change, leading to closures at major sights.
Admire the fairytale beauty of Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Waqas Arshad/Shutterstock
24. Schloss Neuschwanstein, Germany
Rising from Alpine foothills in the heart of Bavaria in southeastern Germany, the 19th-century Schloss Neuschwanstein seems to spring from a child’s dream of a fairytale castle. Its pencil-thin turrets, vertiginous walls and glorious setting make it one of Europe’s most recognizable structures – indeed, it was the prototype for the castle in Disney’s Cinderella. Rising near Füssen, the castle is at the southern end of the Romantic Road, making it the perfect stop on a beautiful German road trip.
25. Greek Islands, Greece
Wherever you make landfall, the Greek Islands grab your attention and don’t let go. Whether you crave beaches, warm seas, history or nightlife, it’s easy to find your own island in the sun. It’s fair to say that popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos have suffered under the weight of overtourism, but there are plenty of isles to explore that offer more off-the-beaten-path experiences. Try exploring the lush Ionian Islands or the far-flung Dodecanese. Whichever sun-warmed island you choose, you’re in for an incredible experience. Take time to plan the perfect island-hopping adventure and narrow down the islands that are right for you.
From rugged hills to beautiful beaches, there’s nowhere like the Ring of Kerry. Getty Images
26. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
There’s nowhere quite like Ireland – and even within Ireland, there’s nowhere quite like the Ring of Kerry. This 179km (111-mile) driving route around the Iveragh Peninsula captures all the essential elements of the Republic of Ireland on one memorable circuit. Wild and craggy landscapes frame isolated beaches, evocative ruined fortresses stand sentinel over wave-tossed Atlantic seas, and windswept mountains watch over villages and islands that could be nowhere else on earth but Ireland.
27. Oslo, Norway
Oslo is doing everything it can to claim the prize as Europe’s capital of contemporary style, despite facing strong competition from nearby Copenhagen and other Nordic hubs. Oslo’s angular Opera House evokes an iceberg in a fjord, public art is a national pastime, and the city’s extraordinary museums span the Viking age to Norway’s modern state of contented enlightenment. It’s a city to appreciate for its many merits, not merely a stopover on the road to the fjords.
Stockholm’s grand architecture and cozy nooks come into their own when snow dusts the city in winter. Shutterstock
28. Stockholm, Sweden
Beautiful capital cities are no rarity in Europe, but Stockholm comes near the top of the list for sheer wow factor. Straddling 14 islands where the Baltic meets Lake Mälaren, this shiny Nordic star seems to have it all – edgy creativity, engrossing history, inner-city woodlands and waterways clean enough for a bracing dip in summer.
From its storybook Old Town (Gamla Stan) to its famously progressive design, fashion and culinary scenes, the city offers a crash course in style and taste. Across the city, world-class museums and galleries inform and provoke, serving up everything from glittering Viking treasures and an ill-fated warship, to ABBA props and subversive contemporary art.
The result is a stimulating, inspiring hub, where the past, present and future constantly merge, converse and interplay. Winter brings a special fairytale magic to Stockholm, as the gingerbread-like buildings are dusted with snow.
29. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is lively yet peaceful, absurdly photogenic and bursting with wonderful sights – including exquisite ancient churches, medieval streetscapes and noble merchants’ houses. Throw in delightful food and vibrant modern culture and it’s no wonder Tallinn sometimes seems in danger of being loved to death, especially when the cruise ships dock.
But this is one of those blessed places that seems to cope with all the attention. Tallinn safeguards the fairy-tale charms of its UNESCO-listed Old Town – despite some exuberant post-Soviet development, the city clearly realizes it’s better to be classy than brassy. Hence the blossoming of first-rate restaurants and atmospheric hotels – and a well-oiled tourist machine makes visiting a breeze.
Be sure to visit the Our Lady of the Rocks church in the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. Julian Love for Lonely Planet
30. Montenegro
Imagine a place with sapphire beaches as spectacular as Croatia’s, rugged peaks as dramatic as Switzerland’s, canyons nearly as deep as Colorado’s, palazzi as elegant as Venice’s and towns as old as Greece’s. Now wrap it up in a Mediterranean climate and squish it into an area two-thirds the size of Wales, and you’ll start to get a picture of Montenegro. Yes, it really is as magical as it sounds.
Montenegro, Crna Gora, Black Mountain – the name conjures up a sense of romance and drama. There are plenty of both on offer as you explore this perfumed land, bathed in the scent of wild herbs, conifers and Mediterranean blossoms.
More adventurous travelers can easily sidestep the peak-season hordes on the coast by heading to the rugged mountains of the north. This is, after all, a country where wolves and bears still lurk in forgotten corners, overlooked by the world.
31. Bruges, Belgium
If you set out to design a fairy-tale medieval town, it would be hard to improve on central Bruges (Brugge in Dutch). Picturesque cobbled lanes and dreamy canals link photogenic squares lined with soaring towers, historical churches and photogenic whitewashed almshouses.
Of course, the secret is out – during the busy summer months, you’ll be sharing Bruges’s cobbled streets and beer houses with a constant stream of fellow tourists. If you can stand the cold, come midweek in the depths of winter (except at Christmas time) to avoid the crowds. And do stay overnight to enjoy the views at night, when the city is lit up by atmospheric floodlighting.
Get up close and personal with reindeer in Finnish Lapland. Shutterstock
32. Lapland, Finland
Lapland casts a powerful spell – something intangible fills this land of islands and forests with Arctic magic. The midnight sun, the Sámi peoples, the aurora borealis (northern lights) and roaming reindeer are all components of Finland’s special charm. Then there’s Santa Claus himself, who ‘officially’ resides here, close to the northern town of Rovaniemi, the most popular gateway to the north.
Consider the awesome latitudes – at Nuorgam, the northernmost point in Finland, you’ll have passed Iceland and nearly all of Canada and Alaska. Spanning 30% of Finland’s land area, Lapland is home to just 3% of its population, and its vast wilderness is ripe for exploring on foot, on skis or snowshoes, or by snowmobile or sled.
The sense of space, pure air and big skies are the memorable features here. Lapland’s far north is known as Sápmi, home of the Sámi, and the main communities of the region’s Indigenous population are found around Inari, Utsjoki and Hetta.
33. The Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera was a revelation to the backpackers who discovered the last virgin stretch of the Mediterranean coast in Europe a decade or so ago. Savvy travel pioneers flocked here in droves, setting up ad hoc campsites and exploring scores of little-known beaches.
Since then, development has truly kicked off in this region, but worry not – while some beaches can be well and truly mobbed in summer, with a little patience you can still find opportunities to kick back and enjoy the empty beaches the region was once so famous for.
Europe can get busy in summer, when you’ll have to compete for a space on Italy’s beaches. Martina De Pascali for Lonely Planet
When is the best season to visit Europe?
Europe is a big place, spanning many different kinds of terrain – the best time to visit will vary based on the countries you want to see, and your tolerance for heat, cold, and crowds.
Visiting Europe in summer
July and August are undoubtedly the busiest months in Europe, particularly in the most visited countries such as France, Italy, Spain and Greece. In recent years, Mediterranean regions have faced extreme heat and wildfires in the summer months, with popular attractions such as the Acropolis in Athens closing to tourists due to dangerously high temperatures.
In France, the south heaves with visitors in the summer, but locals head out on their own summer vacations and many businesses around the country close in August, even in Paris.
Summer can be a great time to visit some of Europe’s cooler, northern regions, such as Scandinavia, where long days and warm temperatures make this a great time for outdoor pursuits – the midnight sun means you can enjoy bright evenings out that last well into the next morning. Across the continent, accommodation prices will be at their highest in summer, and booking well in advance is recommended.
Visiting Europe in spring and autumn
The spring (from April to May) and early autumn (September and October) are both great times to visit Europe, though spring school holidays and Easter vacations can bring crowds, closures and disruptions in many places. Crowds and prices will be smaller than in mid-summer, though destinations such as Italy remain busy throughout the year. Luckily, there are plenty of destinations in Europe that are perfectly suited for an autumn escape or spring break.
Visiting Europe in winter
During the winter months, ski resorts throughout the Alps and other European mountain ranges flood with alpine enthusiasts, and shoppers crowd Christmas markets in major cities, but the cold season can bring closures in spots that depend on summer tourism, including some Greek islands. For a dose of winter sun, many European travelers look to sun-warmed islands such as the Balearics, the Canaries and Malta.
Winter is ski season across Europe, from the French and Swiss Alps to the cross-country trails of Scandinavia. Shutterstock
Can I visit multiple countries in Europe during my trip?
With its many land borders, Europe was made for country-hopping – just ask the generations of backpackers and Interrailers who have meandered across it by road, rail and bicycle. How much of Europe you can see in one trip comes down to how much time you have and how packed you want your itinerary to be.
Continental Europe is well-connected by rail, and a resurgence of night trains is making it even easier to get around without the carbon footprint of flying. Travelers can also take the Eurostar train from continental Europe to Great Britain – much less hassle than traveling by plane!
However, be aware of the immigration restrictions that apply to the Schengen Area, which includes most of the countries in continental Europe. If you need to apply for a Schengen Visa, you’ll be able to visit multiple European nations within the Schengen Area, but only for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. If you’re lucky enough to have a passport from a European Union country, you can travel freely across Europe with few restrictions.
