Travel experts have shared the destinations everyone should visit in Europe, with Portugal, Greece, and Italy emerging as top picks over popular spots like Spain and France. Europe is filled with bucket-list destinations, from sandy beaches to mountains, glaciers, and cultural cities, offering something for everyone across the continent. However, deciding where to travel can be challenging given the abundance of options.
A panel of travel experts was asked which country everyone should visit at least once in their lives. While many Brits favor Spain for sunny holidays and Paris for city breaks, neither was selected as the top choice. Instead, Portugal, Greece, and Italy were the most highly ranked countries, with experts citing history, culture, and food as key reasons.
Portugal: A Contrast of Regions
Joanne Lynn, travel expert at cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel, supported Portugal as the top European destination. She stated: "It offers an impressive mix of history, scenery and culture, but what really makes it stand out is the contrast between its regions, particularly beyond the well-known Algarve." While the Algarve is popular for its beaches and warm climate, the Douro Valley provides a completely different experience. This quieter, more traditional side of Portugal centers around the river and surrounding vineyard landscapes. It is less about resort-style relaxation and more about taking time to enjoy the setting. Tourists can travel through vineyards, take in countryside views, and sample Portugal's renowned wine and port. Lynn added: "These experiences feel far more personal and rooted in place than what many travellers might be used to in busier destinations. Overall, it’s this contrast that makes Portugal stand out. The Algarve offers ease and familiarity, while the Douro Valley provides a quieter, more authentic perspective, shaped by landscape, tradition and local culture. Experiencing both highlights just how varied the country is, and why it leaves such a lasting impression on those who visit."
Greece: Diversity and Hospitality
Meanwhile, Tricia Handley-Hughes, Managing Director of InteleTravel UK & Ireland, selected Greece as "an absolute essential" for any bucket-list. She commented: "What makes it so special is the diversity - you can stand in the shadow of the Parthenon one morning and be in a quiet cove by sunset. It also offers a sense of authentic hospitality that is increasingly hard to find. Whether you are island-hopping or exploring ancient ruins, the experience is truly humbling." She explained that accommodation across Greece ranges from traditional self-catering apartments to high-quality hotels, catering to various budgets.
Italy: History, Culture, and Coastal Charm
A final contender is Italy. Tim Hentschel, CEO & Co-founder of HotelPlanner.com, says Italy "effortlessly" combines history, culture, and lifestyle in a single trip. He noted: "Travellers can experience the depth of Rome, the artistry of Florence, and the relaxed coastal pace of the Amalfi Coast, all without feeling too rushed." For him, Puglia in Italy, with its whitewashed towns, Adriatic coastline, and exceptional local cuisine, delivers an authentic summer experience without the intensity and crowds of other Italian hotspots. He added: "It’s one of the few destinations that consistently delivers on expectations, making it a reliable choice for making memorable experiences every time you visit."
