10 Extraordinary Destinations to Visit in Europe

Hikers above a precipitous ridge overlooking Varlaam Monastery in Meteora | Kate Baker
Hikers above a precipitous ridge overlooking Varlaam Monastery in Meteora | Kate Baker

10 Extraordinary Destinations to Visit in Europe

 
Europe can be an unbelievable place at times, and you have to pinch yourself to be reminded that some destinations are in fact real. In this article we present ten of the most unusual places to explore in Europe, all of which can be seen on our affordable walking and cycling holidays. So prepare to be gobsmacked with these amazing sights that you definitely need to add to your bucket list.
 

1. Sassi di Matera

Viewpoint of Matera and the Sassi cave dwellings |  <i>Ross Baker</i>
 
In Southern Italy, the Sassi di Matera are ancient cave dwellings that have been carved into a mountainside. Absolutely mesmerising!
 
 
 

2. Painted Monasteries of Romania

A visit to Voronet Monastery in southern Bukovina is a cultural highlight
 
In northeastern Romania, you'll find the splendid Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. These frescoes were painted in the 15th and 16th centuries and depict vibrant Biblical scenes.
 
 

3. The Volcanoes of Stromboli

Boat to the Sicilian Island of Stromboli |  <i>Mike Gebicki</i> Eruptions on Stromboli, Sicily |  <i>Kate Baker</i> Guide showing Aeolian Islands, Sicily
 
The island of Stromboli has an active volcanic cone that dominates the horizon. Dramatic cliffs and winding coastline, black beaches and thermal hot springs, a deep blue sea and charming port towns are all characteristic of the Aeolian Archipelago, an enchanting group of islands.
 
 

4. Meteora

The monastery of Varlaam, Meteora |  <i>Hetty Schuppert</i>
 
Viewing the spectacular monasteries of Meteora, perched high on precipitous rock formations in central Greece, has to be one of the great travel experiences in Europe. The monasteries appear to be suspended in the air due to hermit monks choosing to build on such a remote site atop of ancient rock pinnacles that have weathered away over time.
 
 

5. Iceland

Discover the truly unique landscapes of Iceland on a walking holiday Looking out over ice floes in Iceland Dramatic waterfalls are a feature of Iceland's Golden Circle
Truly one of the world's most enchanting destinations, Iceland has terrific natural landscapes that seem to be straight out of a fantasy novel. Join a hiking trip to this magical nation and behold waterfalls, hot springs, mountains of lava, and more.
 
 

6. Saint Basil's Cathedral

Visiting Moscow's iconic Saint Basil's Cathedral is a must |  <i>Phillip Williams</i>
 
The iconic emblem of Russia, Saint Basil's Cathedral is just one of the many curious sights you'll uncover on a trip to Russia. Our Moscow and Beyond cycling trip does just that.
 
 

7. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lake National Park
 
The emerald terraced ponds within Plitvice National Park in Croatia truly needs to be seen to be believed. This natural wonder can be explored on a full day of enjoyable hiking on one of our many trips in Croatia.
 

8. French Way of St James

This is (arguably) one of the most beautiful Camino trails to walk. The French Way of St James traipses through pretty villages in the heart of France, including Conques, Le Puy, and Aumont. Watch our video - it's a feast for your eyes.
 
 

9. Cappadocia

A small town in the rocks of Cappadocia |  <i>Erin Williams</i>
 
Cappadocia, in Turkey, is an extraordinary place to visit. Whatever emotion you're trying to evoke: romance, adventure, discovery, wonder - you'll find it in Cappadocia. A balloon flight over the otherworldly landscape is a must for all travellers.
 
 

10. Northern Lights

Northern lights with Snowmobiles |  <i>Ross Baker</i>
Be mesmerised by the elusive Northern Lights in Sweden or Iceland. This is such a surreal sight and deservedly sits on many people's travel lists.
 
 

 
Do you have any extraordinary or unusual European sights to add to our list? Share your insights in the comment section below.
 
 
 
 
Europe, Extraordinary Europe, Unusual Europe, European Nature, Curious Europe

Comments (2)

JOYSTAR

Very good article I really enjoyed this post! Thanks for sharing.

4 years ago
WilliamC

Thanks Joystar! Great to hear! Happy travels.

4 years ago
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