European Adventures: 23 Bucket-List Experiences

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As someone who calls Europe home, I can tell you this continent is pure magic—and not just because I’m biased. Whether it’s your first European adventure or your tenth, you’ll fall head over heels for the laid-back vibe, friendly faces, and endless wonders around every corner.

Let me let you in on a little secret: we Europeans know how to live. While some of us are dashing through Milan’s fashion district or doing business deals in Hamburg, others are totally embracing the sweet art of doing nothing—we’re talking afternoon siestas in Spain and the blissful fjaka, that’s our perfect state of chilling in my home country of Croatia. Trust me, you’ll get used to it.

Here in Europe, you can breathe in crisp mountain air in the Swiss Alps, dine in a candlelit corner of a Barcelona tapas bar, view the Louvre’s masterpieces in Paris, or enjoy the perfect beach day—Croatia’s coastline beckons with hidden coves and water so clear you can count the pebbles beneath the surface.

That’s the beauty of Europe—whatever adventure your heart craves, you’ll find it here. Oh, and don’t stress about the language thing—we’ve got you covered. English works pretty much everywhere you’ll go.

Ready to discover some seriously amazing European experiences that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous? Let’s dive into 23 bucket-list adventures that’ll make you want to pack your bags right now.

Throw a Coin in the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

Throwing a coin into the world’s most famous fountain when visiting Rome is a must. To give you an idea of how popular this is: €3,000 is thrown into this fountain every day. However, be prepared for large crowds; you won’t believe how many people want to toss away their money.

Joking aside, if you want to avoid those crowds, arrive very early. This Roman fountain has stunning sculptures, and Rome is one of the most beautiful European cities. You will want to return. So, turn your back to the fountain and toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand. According to legend, you will certainly return to Rome. That’s what we call smart marketing, right?

Take a Gondola Ride in Venice, Italy

A gondola ride in Venice is another iconic experience. This 30-minute ride on a wooden boat will cost between 80 and 120 euros. While gliding around the canals, the gondoliers usually share nice stories about the landmarks you see, from old palazzos to the famous Teatro La Fenice.

If you want to add to the experience, some gondola tours include local snacks and wine tastings. They can even perform a serenade, but you’ll have to pay extra. A sunset ride is also an option, but it is more expensive, typically between €120 and €150. And if you’re wondering if you can lower the prices, you can’t. Italian gondoliers have too much work, so they are not interested in making compromises.

Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

I know; you expected this one. But admiring the Eiffel Tower in Paris is a must. This French attraction attracts around 7 million visitors each year. It stands at 1,083 feet tall and offers beautiful views of the City of Light.

The funny part is that the Eiffel Tower initially received mixed reviews. But it has become one of the most famous structures in the world, and every night it sparkles with thousands of lights, creating a truly enchanting sight. Did the tower just teach us a life lesson?

See the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, Paris, France

You have to admit that visiting the Mona Lisa is bucket list worthy. The Mona Lisa was painted by Leonardo da Vinci in the early 1500s. It captivates millions of tourists to the Louvre Museum with her enigmatic smile and mysterious aura.

A fun fact is that its fame skyrocketed after it was stolen in 1911 by Vincenzo Peruggia, an Italian who believed it should be returned to Italy. Or so he claimed. However, he was arrested two years later when he tried to sell it. So, don’t be surprised that the Mona Lisa is kept behind bulletproof glass.

Relax at Lake Bled in Slovenia

My neighboring country, Slovenia, is a beautiful and very safe country. Lake Bled is its hidden gem. This fairytale has a green lake with a beautiful small island in the middle. Sure, it would not be the same without the stunning scenery: Slovenia’s oldest castle, lush vegetation, and the Alps.

Lake Bled is rich with legends that give it a special charm. For example, there is a story about fairies who built the lake in revenge. You will also see the Wishing Bell that grants wishes when rung three times. Brides and grooms can also climb 99 steps for “happily ever after.”

Yes, Slovenians know how to make a good story out of anything. However, the legend that we believe in is a slice of the Bled Cream Cake. It’s very nice; I recommend it. Slovenia is small, so you can also organize a nice road trip, for example, to neighboring Austria or my home country, Croatia.

Discover Gaudi’s Art in Barcelona, Spain

I visited Barcelona a long time ago, and I would like to return to admire Gaudi’s architecture once more. I recommend starting with his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. The main tower is 170.5 meters tall, just one meter lower than Montjuic, Barcelona’s highest peak. Why? Because Gaudi believed that no human project should be higher than what God created.

It was called the ugliest building in the world, and now it is a Spanish attraction with annual donations of 25 million euros. I also recommend Park Güell (the UNESCO World Heritage Site), Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà. Consider taking guided tours to discover more about Gaudi, his ideas, and how ahead of his time he was. It’s amazing!

And when you’re tired of sightseeing, Barcelona is a tapas heaven (as is Madrid).

Experience the Northern Lights at Tromsø, Norway

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Norway feels otherworldly. From late September to early April, the sky is alive with vibrant greens, purples, and pinks. You’ll be standing on a snowy hillside, surrounded by an unspoiled environment, watching the auroras swirl and shimmer overhead, frequently reflecting off frozen fjords. Cool, right?

I recommend booking a Northern Lights tour. They include guides who are experts in finding the best viewing spots based on weather and solar activity. Many tours include warm clothes, tripods for photography, and snacks or dinners around the campfire.

But it is also a nice option to cozy up in a traditional Sami tent, sipping hot cocoa, and waiting for the magic.

Read More: Top 10 Places to See the Northern Lights

Relax at the Blue Lagoon, Iceland

If you need a unique place to relax, consider the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. It’s a place to enjoy warm, mineral-rich, milky-blue geothermal waters while taking in the views of black lava fields. This iconic Icelandic spa is just a short drive from Reykjavik. You can rest in the heated waters, which can reach 100°F (38°C). Also, an amazing fact: it is often accompanied by the Northern Lights in winter.

Swim in the Adriatic Sea in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Jeff Bezos, the Beckham family, Orlando Bloom, and Gerard Piqué are just some of the world’s stars that love Dubrovnik. And, if that means anything to you, I love Dubrovnik too.

Dubrovnik is known as the location for filming one of the most famous series of all time, Game of Thrones. It is known for its old town, Mediterranean charm, crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, and fascinating walls from the 16th century. Another bonus is that my country, Croatia, is a small country, so with well-organized day trips, you can see an incredible number of natural wonders. Or even have road trips to neighboring countries, such as Montenegro or Slovenia.

Admire Michelangelo’s Art in the Vatican or Florence

If you visit Rome and the Colosseum, make sure to stop by the Vatican. Did you know it is the smallest country in the world? You may easily reach there from Rome in about 30 minutes or take a short metro ride. I recommend starting at St. Peter’s Basilica, where you can admire Michelangelo’s Pietà.

Just a short walk away is the famous Sistine Chapel. There you can see Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling drawings, which have innumerable fans. If you get interested in Michelangelo’s art, I suggest that you also visit Florence to see his iconic David statue. Or, if not, head to Naples for pizza.

Take a Ride on Tram 28 in Lisbon, Portugal

You must have seen photos of charming Lisbon and the vintage yellow tram. That’s Tram 28. Aside from riding in one of the world’s most famous trams, you’ll discover some of Lisbon’s most lovely areas, such as Graça, Alfama, and Baixa.

Enjoy tiled buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic sights like the Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle. Also, be ready for some tight turns and steep hills. This iconic ride will only cost you around 3 euros. Lisbon is a very tame city, and the people are very kind. You will surely enjoy it!

Visit the Berlin Christmas Markets in Germany

As Mariah Carey would say: It’s tiiiiime! It’s time to consider Berlin’s Christmas markets. It’s a winter fairytale with dazzling lights and attractive stalls dotted around popular spots like Alexanderplatz and Gendarmenmarkt.

You can try traditional German bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, spiced fruitcake, and warm mulled wine (Glühwein). If you prefer a romantic setting, I recommend the market at Charlottenburg Palace, which features baroque architecture. If you’re looking for an ice rink, I recommend the Winterwelt on Potsdamer Platz. You can also buy nice handcrafted presents, ranging from complex ornaments to cozy woolen scarves. It’s a nice souvenir!

Have Fun at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

Any beer lovers here? I must say that I am not a fan of traditional German sausages or any kind of beer, but Oktoberfest in Munich is a really iconic event. This gigantic festival transforms Munich into a celebration of joy, music, food, and, of course, beer. If you’re not sure what to try, try pretzels and classic sausages.

Yes, there will be a lot of laughter and new friendships. Especially if you order an extra beer.

Read More: Experience Another Kind of Oktoberfest: Cannstatter Volksfest

Reconnect with Nature in Switzerland

I love Switzerland; for me, it is a place for enjoying natural beauty. I am fascinated by the mountains that surround their charming villages. I recommend hiking the scenic trails of the Swiss Alps or enjoying a moment by the crystal-clear lakes.

Don’t miss Rhine Falls; it’s Europe’s largest waterfall. Staubbach Falls, plunging nearly 300 meters, is also a nice option. If you want to see the beauty of Switzerland but don’t enjoy hiking, I totally understand. In that case, I recommend the iconic Glacier Express. That way, you may enjoy the scenery while sipping coffee and looking out the window of the world’s slowest high-speed train.

Take a Ride on the London Eye in England

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say that they didn’t have high expectations for London, but when they arrived, they fell in love. Riding the London Eye is probably the finest way to see why they fell in love. It was the world’s tallest observation wheel when it opened in 2000.

The ride lasts about 30 minutes. So you’ll have enough time to see famous British spots like the Tower of London, Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the River Thames, and Buckingham Palace. And all this from a height of 135 meters. You can also consider a sunset ride, and for a touch of luxury, I recommend a glass of champagne.

Enjoy the Sweet Chaos in Istanbul, Türkiye

When I say enjoying the sweet chaos of Istanbul, I mean enjoying its culture, food, aromas, and life. As you discover the streets of Sultanahmet or Taksim, stop for some food. I recommend kebab, börek, balık ekmek, and baklava. For a touch of luxury, enjoy a cup of strong Turkish coffee at a seaside café along the Bosphorus.

I also recommend not missing the Grand Bazaar. It is one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets, with around 4,000 stores. They sell everything, from nice handcrafted carpets to jewelry. Do not hesitate to bargain. I’m not comfortable with it, either, but they expect it, so consider it part of the experience.

Take a Bike Ride across Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is known as the “City of Bikes,” so I think there is no better way to discover its hidden gems than a leisurely bike ride. Especially along the picturesque canals and gabled houses.

Can you believe that Amsterdam has over 800,000 bicycles? Obviously, it’s more than a form of transportation here; it’s a lifestyle. So, start at Vondelpark, where you can enjoy the greenery and lively atmosphere. After that, make your way to the 9 Streets, a nice area full of unique stores and cafés.

Also, do not miss the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum. At some point, I recommend stopping in a nice café for a classic stroopwafel or herring. That way, you will experience Amsterdam like a local.

Attend the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland

Are there any art lovers here? If so, Scotland’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe is your paradise. This Scottish festival is the world’s largest art festival. It runs for three weeks in August and features thousands of performances in drama, comedy, music, and more.

Many famous comedians, like Simon Pegg, started here. It is unique because of its open-access policy, allowing anyone to perform. So, you can discover rising stars and seasoned professionals. Of course, you are not limited to simply discovering. Perhaps you can be discovered?

Drink a Guinness in Dublin, Ireland

Since my sister moved to Ireland, one thing has been certain: we Croats and Irish people disagree on food. But if you find yourself in Dublin, don’t skip the local pubs. Drinking a Guinness in Dublin is a connection to its rich history.

On a Sunday afternoon, you can find locals in pubs, sharing stories over a few pints and listening to traditional music. It’s a ritual in Ireland that brings together friends and families. Long story short, raising a pint of Guinness is a salute to Irish culture. So, salute!

Relax at Budapest’s Thermal Baths

After discovering Budapest’s attractions, reward yourself in one of their iconic hot spas. I recommend the Gellért Baths, which includes ornate mosaics and peaceful indoor pools. Another nice and even more popular spot is Széchenyi Baths. It has grand outdoor thermal pools, surrounded by beautiful neoclassical architecture.

If you want to participate in the lively social scene, you can watch locals play chess in the pools and even join in the fun. Or you can just ignore it and soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters and feel the stresses of the day melt away.

Enjoy a Boat Ride on the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic

A boat ride on the Vltava is an excellent way to see Prague from a new angle. You’ll discover famous sights like Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. The trip is especially nice during sunset, when the sky is painted in vibrant colors.

I recommend a leisurely cruise with dinner and tasting traditional Czech cuisine while listening to live music. If you need a more intimate experience, consider a private gondola ride and create cherished memories with loved ones.

Read More: A True Bohemian Rhapsody: Celebrating Classical Music in Czechia

Visit the Cradle of Western Civilization in Athens, Greece

Did you know that Athens is widely considered the cradle of Western civilization? It is also home to notable philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. The renowned Acropolis, topped by the Parthenon, represents the ancient Greeks’ artistic and architectural achievements.

You can stroll around Plaka’s bustling streets, taste grilled souvlaki, and enjoy the lively talk of locals and visitors. There are also nice art galleries and chic cafes. As the sun sets, head to rooftop bars with views of the illuminated Parthenon.

Soak in the Sun on Santorini, Greece

Last but not least, Greece is famed for its stunning Greek islands. Santorini stands out among its treasures thanks to its unique whitewashed buildings. They create a nice (and photogenic) contrast with the blue waters.

I encourage you to try Santorini’s Assyrtiko wine, which is grown in the island’s fertile volcanic soil. Also, try local meals like fava and tomato keftedes at cliffside tavernas. Of course, expect large crowds in Santorini. But they’re somehow simpler to bear from your seaside villa. Ah, life is good!

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