Do you want to go on a couples trip or honeymoon and are wondering where to go? Consider one of these 10 most beautiful countries in Europe for your next journey.
This is a guest post by Taylor, the blogger behind Culture Craving Couple. She and her husband have traveled to almost all of the countries in Europe and are in the process of moving there. This post contains affiliate links.
Why consider the most beautiful countries in Europe?
Traveling to Europe should be on every couple’s bucket list. There is so much to see and do and so much diverse culture among the many countries that call this continent home.
From incredible beaches and colorful European cities to majestic mountains and breathtaking architecture, Europe has beauty around every corner and in every country.
But which countries are the most beautiful? Stay tuned. You might find the perfect spot for a European honeymoon or romantic trip.
Here are the 10 most beautiful countries in Europe for your next vacation.
10 Most Beautiful Countries in Europe to Visit
1. Greece
Greece never disappoints with its amazing beauty, incredible islands, and delicious foods. You have the bustling, vibrant city of Athens with ancient monuments as far as the eye can see. If the boisterous city isn’t your vibe, you can jump on a ferry and go island hopping in the crystal-clear and unbelievably blue Aegean Sea.
The beautiful Cycladic islands such as Santorini or Paros are incredible destinations to honeymoon with their white-washed buildings, famous blue domes, incredible Aegean views, and beaches with the softest, whitest sand. Every corner you turn around is postcard perfect with cubic white houses decorated with beautiful purple Bougainvillea.
Don’t forget to check out the sunsets on the island. They’re some of the most beautiful in Europe and make a very romantic way to end the day over a glass of delicious Greek wine.
If you’re a couple that prefers the natural beauty of mountains, Greece has you covered there, too. Plus, you might even meet some Greek gods if you decide to scale Mount Olympus.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Greece: Athens, Rhodes Town, Corfu Town, Naoussa, Thessaloniki
What are the most beautiful countries in Europe? Give Greece a try for stunning scenery.
2. Spain
Spain is not only one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, but it’s a country full of culture and vibrancy. As a result, as you wander through the historic cities, you feel the laid-back way of life. That somehow makes you feel more alive around every corner.
You have Barcelona with its beautiful Gothic quarter and incredible shopping districts. Next, you have the capital city of Madrid with its royal palace that has some of the most incredible sunsets you will see in Spain.
If that isn’t your cup of tea, take a Spanish road trip and head over to sunny Andalusia with its white-washed houses and Moorish architecture that almost makes you feel like you’ve stepped into Morocco. For the adventurous couple, you can even scale the majestic Pyrenees mountains.
For beach bum newlyweds, head to the island of Mallorca for some of the most beautiful coves and beaches in Europe with crystal-clear and turquoise-blue Mediterranean water. Additionally, a sunset cruise is one of the things to do in Mallorca for couples! Or, sail to the volcanic canary islands if you want something more rugged and exotic on a Spanish honeymoon.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Spain: Madrid, Deia, Barcelona, Cordoba, Seville
One of the most naturally beautiful countries in Europe is certainly Spain.
3. Austria
If you think Austria is just Switzerland but a little different, think again. Yes, Austria has amazing mountains but it’s so much more than that. Austria has some of the most beautiful and elegant cities that some famous composers, such as Mozart, have called home.
The capital city, Vienna, feels imperial with its statuesque and elaborate buildings mixed with cool cafes and incredible art. Additionally, there’s the beautiful Baroque city of Salzburg, where you can sit on the castle walls and watch the city lights come on at night as the sun sets. If you want to ski, simply head over to Innsbruck or St. Anton and check out the magical castles along the way.
Finally, if you want to get out of the big cities, you can jump on a train to Hallstatt. It is one of the most photographed places in all of Austria, and for good reason. You’ll feel like you literally walked into a fairytale.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Austria: Hallstatt, Vienna, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Graz
What’s the prettiest country in Europe? Many would say that Austria is quite lovely.
4. Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. It’s famous for its mountains, the Swiss Alps, and for good reason. These huge mountains are either the most beautiful, bright green in the spring and summer or wintery-white in the seasons when it’s perfect to hit the slopes.
When you’re riding the train around the famous Alps areas, such as the Jungfrau region, you will meander through the most idyllic villages. You and your partner will see Swiss chalets that look like log cabins. Consequently, these make a great place to stay in Switzerland for couples. They’re a great place to cozy up in front of a fire and eat the best cheese fondue of your life together.
Switzerland isn’t just mountains and adventure. It also has many historical cities such as Zurich and Geneva as well as smaller beautiful places like Lucerne.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Switzerland: Zurich, Lucerne, St. Moritz, Lausanne, Wengen, Grindelwald
Which part of Europe is most beautiful? Many would say Switzerland’s lakes and mountains rank on top.
5. Iceland
With its famous blue lagoon, lava fields, and a ridiculous amount of waterfalls and glaciers, Iceland is other worldly. Therefore, they don’t call it the land of fire and ice for no reason. When you’re on a road trip through this majestic island, you’ll pass by rolling green hills dotted with sheep.
And then suddenly, you’ll turn a corner onto a black and red lava field, only to turn back again to a majestic waterfall. And don’t forget about the chance to see the Northern lights. Make sure you grab your road trip questions for couples to make the adventure extra special.
But Iceland isn’t just volcanoes and ice lagoons. Reykjavik, its capital city, has a buzzing vibe with incredible nightlife. Consequently, you can unwind in a wine bar and eat traditional Icelandic food. Or, go offshore to cozy up together while you watch whales or even spot some puffins.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Iceland: Reykjavik, Vik, Höfn, Húsavík
Looking for countries in Europe with beautiful nature? Head to Iceland with the one you love.
6. Ireland
With its dramatic coastline and lush green fields at every turn, Ireland is one of the most scenic places in Europe. Additionally, when you think of Ireland, you probably think of Guinness and Dublin. While Ireland has those things, it’s so much more than that.
When you drive through the Emerald Isle, you can choose to drive through narrow roads. They are littered with Medieval ruins, sheep, and adorable houses. Another option is to drive on the west coast of the island along the Wild Atlantic Way for incredible ocean views.
Take a stop at the Cliffs of Moher for some of the most majestic rock faces you’ll ever see. And make sure to cozy up in Kinsale, the adorable town known for its bright-colored buildings. It’s famous for its incredible food. Therefore, it’s a great stop to get a glass of wine and a meal together on your tour of beautiful Ireland.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Ireland: Galway, Kinsale, Cork, Adare, Kilkenny
Which country in Europe is beautiful? Add Ireland to the list of favorites.
7. Czech Republic
When you think of the Czech Republic, you probably think of its capital city, Prague. As a result, that’s correct, as Prague is considered to be the most beautiful city in the world. It’s easy to see why this is the case with its whimsical streets, small alleys, and beautiful architecture in pastel colors. When you wander hand-in-hand over the famous Charles Bridge, it’s hard to imagine being anywhere more beautiful or romantic.
However, the Czech Republic is one of the most beautiful European countries beyond Prague. For the wine-loving couple, head over to one of the hidden gems, Mikulov. It’s the little-known wine region of the Czech Republic. As a result, it’s famous among locals for its incredible white wines and beautiful rolling hills.
Or, visit Český Krumlov, a town on the banks of the Vltava River with a charming and fairy-tale old town complete with a castle. Plus, it’s guarded by real, live bears.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Czech Republic: Prague, Český Krumlov, Mikulov, Kutna Hora, Karlovy Vary
What is the most beautiful country to visit in Europe? Go to the Czech Republic to find out.
8. France
If France wasn’t on this list, you might not trust it. France is considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. It truly is one of the prettiest countries, so it’s great for honeymoons or long-time couples.
Of course, you can visit Paris with its beautiful neighborhoods like Montemarte, its flower-lined cafes, and the famous UNESCO World Heritage Eiffel Tower. But France has more to explore.
The rolling hills of Bordeaux are a beautiful place to enjoy amazing French wine or visit the best beaches and fields of Provence. For couples that want something a little more off-the-beaten-path, the charming Medieval village of Annecy has brightly colored houses sitting along a canal and a large lake to relax at during the day.
Let’s not forget the best beaches in the French Riveria, studded with charming towns and winding streets that are perfect for exploring hand in hand.
Most beautiful cities to visit in France: Paris, Colmar, Annecy, Strasbourg, Nice, Avignon
What’s the most beautiful country in Europe? France is known for both its stunning cities and idyllic countryside.
9. Croatia
Croatia is a Medieval, Mediterranean jewel for those wanting to explore something a little more off the beaten path than the rest of Europe. However, after the popularity of Game of Thrones, Croatia has experienced more tourism.
Walking into the city of Dubrovnik feels like you have gone straight back in time. For example, the city sits on the edge of the Adriatic Sea. Additionally, the old town is surrounded by walls that you can walk around with the most spectacular sea views. Spend the afternoon soaking up the rays at some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
If you’re an outdoorsy couple, make sure you check out Plitvice Lakes National Park. Consequently, it has some of the most beautiful, naturally blue waterfalls that you may ever see in your life.
Let’s not forget the beautiful islands of Croatia, such as the romantic Hvar, which is known for its beautiful lavender fields. In the northern part of the country, you can also visit Rovinj. It is a quiet port town known for its colorful houses and beautiful port restaurants.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Croatia: Dubrovnik, Rovinj, Split, Motovun, Hvar
When considering the most beautiful countries in Europe to visit, take a look at Croatia.
10. Italy
Ahh, the land of pasta and gelato! Italy is one of the best places for foodie couples. But it’s also one of the most beautiful European countries for a romantic vacation or honeymoon. Italy has a ton of landscapes, from the mountainous region of Cinque Terre to the rolling hills of Tuscany and everything in between.
The capital, Rome, is littered with ancient relics among beautiful buildings, and it’s a juxtaposition that is just breathtaking. Then, you have the spectacular Amalfi coast with its beautiful beaches, colorful hillside villages, and gorgeous lemon groves. Make sure that you admire the vibrant sunsets with a limoncello spritz in hand.
Florence feels like a movie set with the breathtaking Duomo in the city center and the vineyards surrounding it. For those who want something a little more rugged, you have the natural beauty of Mount Vesuvius or the ancient ruins of Pompeii.
Most beautiful cities to visit in Italy: Venice, Rome, Florence, Portofino, Sorrento, Veron
In a list of the most beautiful countries in Europe ranked, Italy may be first in the eyes of some.
How to Choose Which European Country to Visit
While visiting every country on this list would be ideal, it’s not practical for most couples. Therefore, here are some recommendations for narrowing down what country to choose. You may want to base your decision on some other things outside of being beautiful.
Most Beautiful Countries in Europe for the Foodie Couple
If you want to travel for beauty and the best food, consider choosing Italy, France, or Spain for your vacation. France is home to rich, buttery cuisine and incredible baked goods. Italy is known for fresh pasta and crispy wood-fired pizza. Spain is known for “tapas,” or small plates with a variety of flavors that are great for sharing.
Stunning European Countries for Beach Loving Newlyweds
If you want to relax on the beach all day, consider the pretty countries of Spain, Greece or Croatia. In Spain, head over to the island of Mallorca in May to relax on the side of the Mediterranean Sea with fewer tourists than in the summer. As for Greece, any of the islands make a great spot for a beach getaway. Lastly, if you’re in Croatia, check out Dubrovnik or Split for some breathtaking beaches.
Gorgeous Countries in Europe for the Adventurous Couple
If you’re a thrill seeker, consider visiting Iceland or Switzerland. In Iceland, you’ll find endless lakes, volcanoes, and glaciers to explore. In Switzerland, you have skiing, paragliding, or base jumping to get your heart pumping.
Plan a trip to picturesque European countries with your significant other.
Pin the most beautiful countries in Europe!
Of course, all the places on this list offer something amazing for couples outside of their beauty. As a result, no matter where you decide to visit, you can be sure that natural beauty will await you when you visit one of these 10 most beautiful countries in Europe.
