30+ Things to Do in Europe: Best Activities & Experiences
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Europe is best experienced when you leave some room to wander. The best things to do in Europe could mean spending the morning exploring Roman ruins, taking a scenic train into the Alps, stopping at a local market for lunch or heading north after dark to look for the Northern Lights. What you do will depend on the countries you choose, the season you travel in and how you want to experience the continent.
For a first trip, you could combine Paris and Rome for iconic sights and centuries of history, head to Switzerland for Alpine scenery and scenic train journeys, or travel through Iceland and Norway for glaciers, fjords and the Northern Lights. From wandering the medieval streets of Prague to island-hopping in Greece, the places to visit in Europe offer a wide mix of experiences.
If you're planning your trip through Europe tour packages, you can choose an itinerary around the places and experiences that interest you most. After two years of exploring Europe, we’ve seen the continent beyond its famous landmarks and know there’s plenty more to discover. Here’s our pick of the best things to do in Europe to help you explore it like never before
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Best Things To Do in Europe
Explore iconic landmarks, scenic experiences, local food, adventure and unique experiences with this curated guide to the best things to do in Europe for every kind of traveller:
1. Visit the Eiffel Tower and Walk Along the Seine
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most recognisable landmark, but don't treat it as only a photo stop. Go up for the city views, then walk along the Seine and through the surrounding streets. These are the kind of things to do in Paris that work well on a first trip, combining a major landmark with time to experience the city around it.
Location: Champ de Mars, Paris, France
Best time: Early morning or evening
Time needed: 2–3 hours
Cost: Varies by level and lift/stairs
Tip: Book your tower entry in advance during busy periods.
2. Explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum
The Colosseum was built as an amphitheatre for public spectacles, while the Roman Forum was the centre of political, religious and commercial life in ancient Rome. Visiting both together gives you a much better understanding of ancient Rome and makes this one of the more rewarding top things to do in Europe for history enthusiasts.
Location: Rome, Italy
Best time: Morning or late afternoon
Time needed: 3–4 hours
Cost: Combined tickets vary by ticket type
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven archaeological paths.
3. See Sagrada Família and Wander Through the Gothic Quarter
If architecture and old neighborhoods are high on your list, visiting Sagrada Familia is a must.
Sagrada Família is Antoni Gaudí's unfinished basilica, known for its intricate facades and an interior designed around light and colour. For those wondering what to do in Europe, a visit here followed by a walk through the Gothic Quarter offers medieval streets, small squares, and historic buildings.
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Best time: Morning
Time needed: 3–4 hours
Cost: Paid entry to Sagrada Família; Gothic Quarter is free
Tip: Reserve a timed entry for the basilica.
4. Take a Canal Cruise and Cycle Around Amsterdam
Amsterdam's canals are part of the city's historic layout, and cycling is one of the most practical ways to get around. A cruise gives you views of the canal houses from the water, and cycling lets you explore neighbourhoods beyond the main attractions.
These are particularly useful things to do in Amsterdam if you want to experience the city rather than spend the entire day inside museums.
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Best time: Late afternoon for the cruise
Time needed: Half a day
Cost: Canal cruises generally start around €15–€25; bike rental varies
Tip: Keep out of marked cycle lanes when walking.
5. Watch the Changing of the Guard and Explore London's Markets
The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace is a long-standing ceremonial tradition. Afterwards, head to Borough Market or Camden Market for food, independent stalls and a completely different side of London.
Together, these experiences add variety to your list of things to do in London in summer, taking you from the grandeur of royal London to the lively, local atmosphere of its famous markets.
Location: Central London, UK
Best time: Check the official ceremony schedule
Time needed: Half to full day
Cost: Ceremony is free; market spending varies
Tip: Arrive early if you want a good view of the ceremony.
6. Walk Through Prague's Old Town and Across Charles Bridge
Prague's historic centre is best explored on foot. Start at Old Town Square, continue through the narrow lanes towards Charles Bridge and finish with views towards Prague Castle across the Vltava. This is one of the best things to do in Europe to fit into a day because the main walking route is free and connects several important sights.
Location: Prague, Czechia
Best time: Early morning or after sunset
Time needed: 2–4 hours
Cost: Free to walk
Tip: Early morning is best for quieter photographs.
7. Explore the Louvre or Vatican Museums
The Louvre and Vatican Museums are among Europe's best-known art collections, but neither needs to be tackled in its entirety. Choose the galleries and works you actually want to see, then leave time for the rest of your itinerary.
Location: Paris and Vatican City
Best time: Opening hours or quieter weekday periods
Time needed: 2–4 hours
Cost: Varies by museum
Tip: Check the museum map before entering.
8. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century castle commissioned by King Ludwig II and surrounded by the Bavarian Alps. Take a guided tour inside, then walk to the nearby viewpoints for views of the castle and surrounding landscape. It adds a completely different setting to your unique things to do in Europe, especially if your itinerary is otherwise focused on major cities.
Location: Schwangau, Bavaria, Germany
Best time: Spring through autumn
Time needed: Half to full day
Cost: Paid castle admission
Tip: Add Marienbrücke if weather and access conditions allow.
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Unique Things to Do in Europe
1. Watch the Northern Lights in Norway
The Northern Lights appear when charged particles from the sun interact with gases in Earth's atmosphere. Tromsø is a popular base for viewing them, with tours taking visitors away from city lights to areas with better visibility.
There is no guarantee of a sighting on any particular night, so stay for several nights if seeing the Aurora is a priority.
Location: Tromsø, Norway
Best time: September to March
Time needed: 3–4 hours per tour
Cost: Commonly €90–€150 for guided tours
Tip: Check cloud cover as well as the Aurora forecast.
2. Relax in Budapest's Thermal Baths
Budapest sits above natural thermal springs, and bathing has been part of the city's culture for centuries. At Széchenyi, you can move between indoor and outdoor pools surrounded by the complex's distinctive Neo-Baroque architecture.
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Best time: Year-round
Time needed: 2–4 hours
Cost: Paid entry; prices vary
Tip: Bring swimwear, flip-flops and a towel.
3. Take a Scenic Train Through the Swiss Alps
Swiss scenic trains pass lakes, mountain valleys, villages and high-altitude landscapes, letting you experience the Alps without spending the day hiking. Dedicated panoramic services are available, although regular trains can also offer excellent views.
For travellers planning Europe honeymoon trips, this is an easy way to build a scenic day into the itinerary without making it physically demanding.
Location: Switzerland
Best time: Depends on the route and season
Time needed: Half to full day
Cost: Varies by route and rail pass
Tip: Check whether your chosen panoramic service requires a seat reservation.
4. Stay in a Historic Castle
Historic castles and manor houses across Europe have been converted into hotels, allowing you to stay inside buildings that were originally built for royalty, aristocrats or wealthy families.
Where: Germany, Austria, France, Scotland and elsewhere
Best time: Year-round
Time needed: One or more nights
Cost: Varies significantly
Tip: Check the property's history and what parts of the building are actually accessible to guests.
5. Relax in Iceland's Geothermal Waters
Iceland's geothermal pools are heated by underground volcanic activity. The Blue Lagoon is the best-known option, but public pools and smaller geothermal bathing spots offer alternatives at different price points.
If Iceland is part of your trip, your packing list for Europe should include swimwear, waterproof layers and warm clothing for getting between the water and changing areas.
Location: Iceland
Best time: Year-round
Time needed: 2–4 hours
Cost: Varies by spa
Tip: Book a timed entry at popular spas.
6. Take a Hot-Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
At sunrise, balloons rise above Cappadocia's valleys and fairy chimneys, giving you an aerial view of the volcanic landscape. Weather can cancel flights, so book early in your stay. For anyone looking for the top things to do in Europe, watching Cappadocia's landscape unfold from a hot-air balloon is an experience worth planning around.
Location: Cappadocia, Türkiye
Best time: Spring and autumn
Time needed: 3–4 hours including transfers
Cost: Commonly €150–€300
Tip: Book early in your stay so you have another morning available if weather causes a cancellation.
7. Eat Your Way Through Europe's Food Markets
Food markets are an easy way to try local specialities without committing to a long restaurant meal. Borough Market in London and La Boqueria in Barcelona are well-known examples, but smaller neighbourhood markets can offer a more local experience.
Location: Major cities across Europe
Best time: Morning to early afternoon
Time needed: 1–2 hours
Cost: Free entry; pay for food
Tip: Arrive earlier for the widest choice.
Adventure Activities in Europe
16. Go Paragliding in Interlaken
Tandem paragliding in Interlaken takes you above the valley between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with the Alps surrounding the flight path. You fly with a qualified pilot, so no previous paragliding experience is required.
Location: Interlaken, Switzerland
Best time: Spring to autumn, weather permitting
Time needed: 2–3 hours including preparation
Cost: Commonly around €150–€200
Tip: Keep your schedule flexible because flights can be affected by weather.
17. Hike the Dolomites
The Dolomites have everything from short scenic walks to demanding multi-hour hikes. Choose a trail based on your fitness and experience rather than assuming every route requires serious trekking.
Location: Northern Italy
Best time: June to September for many high-altitude trails
Time needed: Half day to several days
Cost: Trails are generally free; lifts and huts cost extra
Tip: Check trail and cable-car conditions before setting out.
18. Drive Iceland's Ring Road
Iceland's Route 1 circles most of the country and connects waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic landscapes, beaches and small towns. A road trip gives you the flexibility to stop when you find somewhere worth exploring. This is one of the activities in Europe where planning your route around driving conditions matters as much as the attractions themselves.
Location: Iceland
Best time: Summer for easier driving conditions
Time needed: At least 7–10 days
Cost: Vehicle hire, fuel, accommodation and food
Tip: Check road and weather conditions every day.
19. Cruise Through the Norwegian Fjords
Norwegian fjords are deep sea inlets surrounded by steep mountains and waterfalls. A cruise takes you directly through these landscapes, while longer itineraries can include small villages and ports along the way.
Location: Western Norway
Best time: May to September
Time needed: Several hours to multiple days
Cost: Depends on route and cruise type
Tip: Spend time outside on deck when conditions allow.
20. Explore the Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are best explored slowly, whether you're driving between lochs and valleys or stopping for short walks along the way. Rural roads and changing weather mean you should leave more time than a map might suggest.
Location: Scotland, UK
Best time: May to September
Time needed: 3–7 days
Cost: Vehicle, accommodation and fuel
Tip: Don't pack too many stops into one day.
21. Walk Through an Ice Cave in Iceland
Iceland's glacier ice caves form naturally and change as the ice moves and melts. Guided access is essential because conditions inside glaciers can be dangerous and change between seasons.
Location: Iceland
Best time: Usually November to March
Time needed: Half to full day
Cost: Guided tours commonly €100–€200+
Tip: Visit only with an experienced glacier guide.
22. Walk Through Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice is made up of turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and wooden walkways through a forested landscape. Several routes let you choose how much of the park you want to cover.
Location: Croatia
Best time: Spring and autumn for cooler walking
Time needed: 3–6 hours
Cost: Seasonal admission fee
Tip: Start early during busy periods.
23. Drive the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast road connects cliffside towns, sea viewpoints, and villages along southern Italy's dramatic coastline. The drive is rewarding, but narrow roads and summer traffic can make it slow.
If you prefer not to drive, buses and private transfers are practical alternatives.
Location: Campania, Italy
Best time: April–June and September
Time needed: Full day or several days
Cost: Fuel, parking and vehicle costs
Tip: Avoid the busiest middle-of-day period in summer.
Things to Do in Europe for Couples
24. Ride a Gondola Through Venice
A gondola is a traditional Venetian rowing boat designed for navigating the city’s narrow canals. For those looking at what to do in Europe, a gondola ride offers views of historic palaces, bridges and quieter waterways that look very different from the busy streets.
Location: Venice, Italy
Best time: Late afternoon or early evening
Time needed: Around 30 minutes
Cost: Officially regulated fares apply
Tip: Confirm the duration and fare before setting off.
25. Watch the Sunset in Santorini
Santorini's volcanic caldera creates the setting behind its famous sunsets. Oia is the best-known viewpoint, but you can find less crowded spots elsewhere on the island.
For travellers looking for things to do in Europe for couples, this is easy to combine with dinner or an evening walk.
Location: Oia, Santorini, Greece
Best time: Late afternoon to sunset
Time needed: 1–2 hours
Cost: Free at public viewpoints
Tip: Arrive early for a good viewing spot.
26. Take an Evening River Cruise
An evening cruise on the Seine, Danube, or another European river lets you see illuminated landmarks after sunset without spending another few hours walking.
Where: Paris, Budapest, Vienna and other European cities
Best time: After sunset
Time needed: 1–3 hours
Cost: Approximately €15–€60 depending on the cruise
Tip: Choose an open-air deck when the weather is comfortable.
27. Take a Scenic Train Through Switzerland
A Swiss rail journey can be the experience itself rather than simply transportation between hotels. Routes through the country pass lakes, valleys and mountain villages, with the scenery changing dramatically between seasons.
Location: Switzerland
Best time: Year-round
Time needed: Half to full day
Cost: Depends on route and rail pass
Tip: Check whether your chosen service requires reservations.
Things to Do in Europe for Tourists
28. Spend a Day at Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris combines two theme parks with rides, character experiences, parades and evening shows, making it one of the popular Europe attractions to add to a Paris itinerary. The RER A train line connects the resort to central Paris, making it relatively easy to reach.
For people booking Europe family tour packages, it provides a full day away from museums and historic attractions.
Location: Marne-la-Vallée, France
Best time: Weekdays outside school holidays
Time needed: Full day
Cost: Varies by date and ticket type
Tip: Check attraction wait times through the official app.
29. Explore Zurich's Old Town and Lakefront
Zurich's Old Town sits around the Limmat River, while the lakefront opens up into walking paths and views towards the surrounding hills and Alps.
If you're planning things to do in Zurich, combine the Old Town with the lakefront rather than treating them as separate sightseeing stops.
Location: Zurich, Switzerland
Best time: Spring to early autumn
Time needed: Half day
Cost: Walking areas are free
Tip: Walk from the Old Town towards Bürkliplatz and continue along the lake.
30. Explore Birmingham's Canals and Jewellery Quarter
Birmingham's central canals provide an easy walking route through the city, while the Jewellery Quarter adds independent businesses, historic workshops and cafés, making them worthwhile Europe attractions to explore.
For travellers extending a UK trip beyond London, these things to do in Birmingham can be combined without needing a full day of organised sightseeing.
Location: Birmingham, England
Best time: Spring through early autumn
Time needed: 3–5 hours
Cost: Walking is free
Tip: Combine the canals with the Jewellery Quarter for a fuller half-day route.
31. Visit Europe's Christmas Markets
During December, historic squares in cities such as Vienna, Prague, Strasbourg and Munich fill with seasonal stalls selling food, drinks, crafts and decorations.
If you're planning Christmas in Europe, check the opening dates of individual markets before booking because they don't all run for the same period. The Christmas markets in Europe are also particularly easy to include in a winter city break.
Best time: Late November to December
Time needed: 2–4 days for a dedicated market trip
Cost: Market entry is generally free
Tip: Book accommodation early if you're travelling around weekends in December.
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32. Take a Day Trip to Europe's Smaller Cities
Not every worthwhile European experience is found in a capital. Smaller cities often give you historic centers, local food, and a slower pace without the crowds of the continent's biggest tourist hubs.
This is particularly useful for solo travel Europe, as compact cities with good public transport can be easier to explore independently.
Where: Depends on your route
Best time: Spring and autumn for comfortable sightseeing
Time needed: One day or more
Cost: Depends on destination
Tip: Check regional train connections before choosing a day-trip destination.
33. Attend Festivals and Events
Europe’s festivals can be as memorable as its landmarks, especially if you plan your trip around one. Catch the Venice Carnival for elaborate costumes and parades, Oktoberfest in Munich for Bavarian traditions, La Tomatina in Spain for something a little more chaotic, or Tomorrowland in Belgium for one of Europe’s biggest music festivals.
You can also explore the Christmas markets of cities like Vienna, Prague and Strasbourg during winter. Check out our Europe cultural festivals tour packages to plan around these experiences.
Where: Venice, Munich, Buñol, Boom and major Central European cities
Best time: February to December, depending on the festival
Time needed: 1–3 days for the festival
Cost: Varies by event, tickets, stay and transport
Tip: Book your accommodation and festival tickets well in advance, especially for popular events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the best things to do in Europe?
The best things to do in Europe depend on your interests, but iconic experiences include visiting the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum, exploring historic cities, taking a Swiss scenic train, watching the Northern Lights, hiking the Alps and experiencing local food markets.
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What is Europe famous for?
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