Why Europe Remains the Best Place to Travel in 2024
Europe’s Diversity: From Culture to Nature
Europe continues to draw global travelers due to its unparalleled mix of heritage, modern attractions, and extraordinary natural landscapes. Eurostat reports that in 2024, EU citizens made 1.19 billion trips, with 65% participating in some form of tourism. The blend of languages, cuisines, and historic sites across the continent creates endless options, from iconic cities to untouched nature reserves. France, Spain, and Italy remain the most visited due to their history, museums, and gastronomy, collectively generating over €570 billion in tourism receipts annually, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.
What’s New for Travelers in 2024-2026
Trends indicate a shift toward authentic, less-crowded destinations, with travelers seeking unique local experiences over traditional tourist routes. Europe recorded 793 million international tourist arrivals in 2025, a 4% year-on-year increase. New digital infrastructure, AI-assisted planning, and expanded rail and flight connectivity are making even remote regions accessible. A 2024 UN report highlights Iceland (+29% international arrivals), Sweden, Romania, and Cyprus as emerging destinations with rapid growth due to their appeal and infrastructure.
Sustainable and Community-Focused Tourism Trends
Responsible travel is more than a trend—it’s a priority. Over 70% of 2024-2025 travelers reported interest in eco-friendly accommodations and itineraries. The European Commission and UNWTO cite increased off-peak travel, sustainable mobility options, and heritage-based itineraries as top trends. Destinations like the Azores and Lake Bled have received sustainability awards for their conservation and green innovation. Local communities are involved through initiatives that promote longer, more meaningful stays and respect for culture and environment.
Quick Picks: Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Europe in 2024
Best for First-Timers
Paris, France—Classic museums, world-class cuisine, efficient transport, and iconic landmarks make Paris ideal for newcomers. France, as the world’s most visited country, generated $289B in tourism in 2024.
Best Hidden Gem
Kotor, Montenegro—UNWTO lists Kotor among Europe’s fastest-growing tourist hotspots. It combines Adriatic beauty with medieval charm, away from mass tourism.
Best for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers
Tallinn, Estonia—Europe’s digital infrastructure leader, with extensive coworking spaces, e-residency options, and an international community. Hotels and rentals now cater to long stays and remote work needs.
Best for Culture Seekers
Guimarães, Portugal—This World Heritage city is the “birthplace of Portugal” and offers deep-rooted history, vivid traditions, and up-and-coming arts and music scenes.
Best for Nature Lovers
Lofoten Islands, Norway—Nominated for Europe’s top sustainable destination, Lofoten blends epic fjords, fishing villages, and small crowds—ideal for hiking, wildlife, and Northern Lights hunting.
The 20 Best Places in Europe to Travel in 2024
Oulu, Finland – European Capital of Culture 2026 Sneak Peek
Ahead of its Capital of Culture year, Oulu stands out with innovative art, a focus on environmental projects, and digital creativity, attracting visitors who seek unique culture and tech in Northern Finland.
Guimarães, Portugal – The Next Big Thing in Heritage Travel
Renowned for its medieval old town and vibrant events, Guimarães ranks as one of the fastest-rising heritage cities, attracting culturally savvy travelers and those searching for authenticity.
Lake Bled, Slovenia – Eco-Friendly Adventure
Winner of several European Commission green travel awards, Lake Bled excels in eco-tourism, offering hiking, clean lakes, and sustainable guesthouses. A 2024 survey placed it among the top three eco-adventure spots in Europe.
Tallinn, Estonia – Remote-Work Hotspot
Tallinn’s global digital nomad scene benefits from fast Wi-Fi, e-residency, cultural depth, and proximity to nature. Nomad List data shows a 35% year-on-year jump in foreign remote workers in 2024.
Kotor, Montenegro – Offbeat Adriatic Escape
With a 23% increase in arrivals in 2024, Kotor is becoming the Balkans’ new jewel, blending Venetian architecture with stunning bay views and less overtourism than Croatia’s coastline.
The Azores, Portugal – Europe’s Sustainable Isles
The Azores attract nature lovers and sustainable travelers, featuring geothermal parks, whale watching, and green hotels. The islands earned “Top Sustainable Destination” status from Green Destinations in back-to-back years.
Tbilisi, Georgia – Emerging Foodie Capital
Tbilisi has reported a 44% growth rate in foreign visitors since 2023, thanks to its fusion cuisine, wine culture, and arts scene. Gastronomic tours and artisan experiences make it a prime destination for cultural travelers.
Pyrenees, Spain/France – Best for Outdoor Adventure
Outdoor travel to the Pyrenees rebounded strongly, with sports tourism up 17% in 2024. Activities include trekking, glamping, and village stays in less-crowded mountain enclaves.
Vilnius, Lithuania – Arts & Alternative Experiences
Vilnius is recognized for avant-garde art, festivals, and vibrant student life. Alternative travel site visits increased by 21% in 2024, per Eurostat.
Aragon, Spain – Untapped Natural Wonders
Known for wild landscapes and medieval villages, Aragon attracts hikers, geology fans, and stargazers—all benefiting from new eco-lodge developments.
Rotterdam, Netherlands – Modern Culture & Design
The city’s modernist skyline, museums, and food scene led to a 16% boost in creative sector tourism in 2024.
Lofoten Islands, Norway – Epic Landscapes, Small Crowds
One of Europe’s lowest-density nature paradises, Lofoten offers untouched beauty and outdoor adventure, recognized for its sustainable visitor policies and off-peak charm.
Brno, Czech Republic – Creative Urban Energy
The second city of the Czech Republic is attracting young travelers for its tech scene, craft beer, and varied festivals.
Made in Sicily, Italy – Local Food Trails & Traditions
Tourism receipts in Sicily reached €865 million in 2024. Visitors come for Baroque towns, local food tours, and hands-on cooking experiences.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia – Nature at Its Purest
UNESCO-listed Plitvice received 1.3 million visitors in 2024, but new management policies are reducing crowds and promoting off-peak, eco-friendly travel.
Hallstatt, Austria – Alpine Beauty in Shoulder Season
Hallstatt restricts coach traffic and limits tourist volume, making spring/autumn the best times to sample its Alpine and lake scenery without crowds.
Hebrides, Scotland – Remote Island Immersion
Topping UK “wild escape” surveys, the Hebrides saw a 37% increase in eco-community stays in 2024.
Yerevan, Armenia – Historical Heartbeat & Warm Hospitality
Yerevan won UNESCO recognition for intangible heritage in 2024, welcoming travelers to vibrant markets, museums, and contemporary art.
Valbona Valley, Albania – Hiking the Wild Balkans
Valbona Valley National Park, with visitor numbers up 28% since 2023, attracts serious hikers and eco-travelers searching for remote trails.
Chamonix, France – All-Season Adventure & Digital Nomad Base
Chamonix appeals beyond skiing: coworking spaces, hiking, and alpine activities draw long-stay digital workers and active explorers year-round.
Unique Travel Experiences in Europe for 2024
Europe’s Most Instagrammable Hidden Corners
Top-rated photography sites for 2024 include: Hallstatt’s lakeshore (Austria); the alleyways of Guimarães (Portugal); and Kotor Bay sunsets (Montenegro). Instagram check-in volume for these sites grew 17-34% last year.
Best Places for Slow Travel and Immersive Living
Sicily’s agriturismo stays, the Azores’ village guesthouses, and the Hebrides’ eco-lodges are top-rated for travelers seeking two-week+ immersion and cultural participation.
Digital Nomad Hotspots: Infrastructure, Cost, Community
- Tallinn, Estonia: Median coworking cost €140/month, fast fiber internet, digital-nomad visa.
- Brno, Czech Republic: €850/month average living costs, thriving international tech meet-ups.
- Lisbon, Portugal: Top-rated for community events and international remote work hubs.
Sustainable & Responsible Travel Itineraries
European Green Deal-certified trips are up 22%. Options in the Azores, Slovenia, and Norway lead the field, with public transport, farm-to-table dining, and guided wilderness treks being the norm.
Expert Tips for Planning Your European Trip in 2024
How to Beat the Crowds and Find Last-Minute Gems
- Opt for shoulder-season travel (April-June, September-November) for 20-40% lower prices and 30-50% fewer visitors at top sites.
- Track emerging areas such as the Balkans or Baltic capitals for spontaneous deals and authentic experiences.
Essential Apps and Resources for Smooth Travel
- Transport: Rail Europe, FlixBus, Ryanair, and EasyJet apps for route planning and tickets.
- Planning: Itinerary builders and city guides (e.g., Rick Steves, Lonely Planet).
- Free walking tour apps and local experience platforms, including AirBnB Experiences.
Upcoming European Events and Festivals (2024-2026)
- Oulu, Finland — European Capital of Culture (2026)
- Edinburgh Festival, Scotland (August 2024-2026)
- Venice Biennale, Italy (2024, 2026)
- Copenhagen Jazz Festival, Denmark (July annually)
Check official tourism board sites for updated local event calendars and tickets.
Practical Safety and Budget Advice
- Average daily spend varies from €80 (regional cities) to €220 (capitals); budget accommodations and off-peak itineraries can reduce costs by 20-50%.
- Stick to well-reviewed destinations for personal safety; leverage group tours in unfamiliar cities.
- Secure travel insurance, especially for hiking, skiing, or adventure activities.
Buy train and museum passes in advance for further savings. Rail Europe is recommended for multi-country journeys. For trip insurance, consider WorldTrips.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places in Europe to Travel
- What is the best time to visit Europe in 2024? April-June and September-November for value, comfort, and fewer crowds.
- Which destinations offer digital nomad visas? Estonia, Portugal, Croatia, and Georgia are leaders.
- Best hidden gems? Kotor, Lake Bled, and Valbona Valley stand out for authenticity, scenery, and manageable visitor numbers.
- How to travel sustainably? Choose certified hotels, public transport, and local experiences focused on community benefit.
Interactive Guide: Map and Personal Traveler Stories
- Explore top destinations using Google Maps and city websites for latest highlights, itineraries, and traveler reviews.
- Mental-wellness and food-tasting tour stories are shared on platforms like TripAdvisor and CDC Europe Travel Stories.
Your European Travel Checklist for 2024
- Decide on region/theme (culture, nature, digital work, family, food).
- Book flights and accommodations early for top destinations and events.
- Plan routes using essential transport and itinerary apps.
- Secure rail/museum passes, insurance, and key reservations.
- Consider sustainability: select green-certified lodging, restaurants, and tours.
- Pack light—carry-on only for multi-city trips.
- Double-check local events, festivals, and any entry requirements.
Ready to explore Europe in 2024? Book your Eurail pass, compare city tickets, and check traveler resources for an unforgettable experience.