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Top European countries to Explore in 2024
Are you dreaming of the best cities in Europe to visit in 2024? You're in luck! The European Best Destinations (EBD) has released its top 20 destinations for the year1. This list includes iconic landmarks and hidden gems for cultural, culinary, and outdoor adventures.
What makes these cities special? What unique experiences await you? Discover Europe's trendiest spots and plan your 2024 trip.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the best cities in Europe to visit in 2024, as voted by over 1 million travelers.
- Explore a mix of classic European destinations and emerging hotspots for unforgettable experiences.
- Uncover the cultural, culinary, and outdoor highlights of these top European city breaks.
- Get inspired to plan your next European getaway, whether you seek luxury, sustainability, or off-the-beaten-path adventures.
- Unlock the secrets of Europe's trendiest cities and start your 2024 travel planning today.
Antwerp, Belgium: Intriguing Architecture and Sharp Hotel Openings
Often overlooked, Antwerp is a hidden gem in Belgium. It's not as well-known as its Dutch neighbor or as dull as Brussels. This city is a treasure trove of cool culture for a weekend getaway. Antwerp's culinary offerings are top-notch, with many Michelin-starred restaurants. The Jane, a two-star gem, was ranked 39th in the World's 50 Best Restaurants list and is celebrating 10 years in 20242.New hotels are popping up in Antwerp, like the peaceful August and the stylish Hotel Julien. The city is getting greener, with the Zuidpark project adding 30,000 plants and smart water features3.
Highlights:
- Michelin-starred dining: Antwerp's food scene is amazing, with places like The Jane and Blueness Antwerp. They offer unique dishes and desserts2.
- Innovative architecture: The city's buildings are getting a cool makeover, with new projects like the August hotel and Hotel Julien3.
- Sustainable initiatives: Antwerp is going green, with the Zuidpark project adding plants and water features. This shows the city's commitment to being sustainable3.
"Antwerp is easily Belgium's most underrated city, with an impressive concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants and a thriving architectural scene."
| Antwerp's Culinary Highlights | Antwerp's Architectural Marvels |
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Antwerp is becoming more popular, thanks to its great food and new buildings. It's set to be a top destination for 202423.
Asturias, Spain: Eco-Luxury in a Natural Paradise
Asturias, in northern Spain, is a top spot for eco-focused travelers looking for a natural getaway4. It's known as the "Natural Paradise" and is full of protected areas. These include UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, perfect for hiking on trails like the Camino Primitivo5.
Asturias is leading in sustainable tourism with its luxury eco-hotels. You can stay at the PuebloAstur Eco-Resort in the Picos de Europa mountains. Or choose the stylish Ecoboutique's Solo Palacio or the healing Las Caldas Villa Termal. These places mix luxury with caring for the environment4.
Asturias is more than just nature and green hotels. It's also a top spot for food lovers, with 11 Michelin-starred restaurants5. Oviedo, the main city, will be named Spain's Gastronomic Capital in 2024. This confirms Asturias as a key place for great food and new tastes5.
If you want to hike in the Caudal and Nalón valleys, stay at an eco-friendly luxury hotel, or try the local Michelin-starred food, Asturias is the place. This part of northern Spain offers an amazing experience in nature5.
"Asturias is the most dynamic destination in Spain, welcoming more than 2.4 million visitors last year, with more international travelers than ever."
Biarritz, France: The Surf's Up in the Basque Country
Just over the border from San Sebastián, Biarritz in France is stepping into the spotlight. It's welcoming a new wave of travelers who love style and sophistication6. They're staying in stylish Belle Époque hotels, like the Regina Biarritz and Hôtel du Palais7. Biarritz is famous for its cool surf scene, being one of Europe's first surf spots6.
Key Attractions:
The town is buzzing with new food spots like Les Halles market and Epoq, a trendy bistro7. Biarritz has a long history with surfing, thanks to Americans in the 1950s6. You can enjoy everything from markets to Michelin-starred restaurants here7.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Regina Biarritz | A newly opened Belle Époque hotel by Experimental Group |
| Hôtel du Palais | A luxury hotel in Biarritz, part of the Unbound Collection |
| Villa Magnan | An enigmatic indie hotel in Biarritz |
| Les Halles Covered Market | A thriving food market showcasing the Basque culinary scene |
| Epoq | A neo-bistro restaurant in Biarritz |
| L'Impertinent | A Michelin-starred restaurant in Biarritz |
"Biarritz is experiencing a resurgence with an up-and-coming surf scene and Belle Époque hotels like Regina Biarritz and Hôtel du Palais."7
The Basque Country has seven provinces, with three in southwestern France8. Biarritz is the biggest city in the French Basque area and is a top spot for surfers8. Napoleon III picked Biarritz for his summer home nearly 170 years ago, and by the 1970s, it became Europe's first surf haven6.
Driving from Biarritz to Bayonne and other places takes about 2-3 hours and covers 113 kilometers8. Capbreton is just 23.2 kilometers from Bayonne and takes 21 minutes to get to by car8.
Biarritz is part of the beautiful Basque Coast, known for its charming towns and deep Basque culture6. The city is now attracting more tourists with its stylish hotels, appealing to those who love art, fashion, and food678.
Bodø, Norway: A Cultural Powerhouse in the Arctic Circle
Bodø is a hidden gem in Norway's north, where Sámi culture meets modern art and stunning nature. It's set to be the European Capital of Culture in 2024, putting its vibrant culture on the global map9.
The Stormen Concert Hall is at the heart of Bodø's cultural boom. It's a stunning building right by the harbor. Here, the Northern Star Symposium happens every year, bringing together experts to talk about new ideas9. They cover topics from Indigenous games to digital media, pushing the boundaries of knowledge9.
Close to the magical Lofoten Islands, Bodø lets you see nature's beauty. Its food and drink scene is growing, with new spots like the Wood Hotel and GlampNord adding to the charm10.
Don't Miss:
- Immerse yourself in the Sámi heritage and traditions that are deeply woven into Bodø's cultural fabric.
- Witness the captivating display of the aurora borealis, which dances across the northern skies during the winter months.
- Explore the Lofoten Islands, a breathtaking archipelago known for its dramatic landscapes, quaint fishing villages, and rich literary history11.
- Savor the local cuisine and craft beverages that celebrate the region's bounty, from fresh seafood to innovative cocktails.
- Discover the architectural wonders that dot the landscape, including the Stormen Concert Hall and the unique accommodations of the Wood Hotel and GlampNord10.
Bodø is a place where culture, nature, and creativity come together. As the European Capital of Culture in 2024, it's ready to welcome visitors from all over the world9.
"Bodø is a cultural powerhouse that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, offering a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Arctic Circle."
Budapest, Hungary: A Rejuvenated City Celebrating 150 Years
Budapest is the heart of Hungary12. It's known for its ancient thermal baths from the 12th century12 and the Buda Castle from the 13th century12. This city beautifully mixes old and new.
In 2023, Budapest is celebrating 150 years since it became one city13. To celebrate, it's hosting cultural events like the Hungarian Palinka Festival and the Budapest Wine Festival12. Famous spots like the Chain Bridge and the Hungarian Parliament Building are getting a new look12.
The Ruin Bars district is full of life, turning old buildings into places for art, music, and fun.
New spots like the W Hotel and the House of Music Hungary are adding to the city's look13. Whether you like history, culture, or new hotels, Budapest has something for everyone in 2024 and beyond.
| Top Attractions in Budapest | Key Facts |
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"Budapest is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends the old and the new, offering visitors an unforgettable experience."
Budapest is celebrating 150 years in 2023 with its history, culture, and architecture. Whether you like history, art, or new hotels, Budapest will amaze you in 2024 and beyond121413.
best cities in europe to visit 2024
The Europe travel 2024 landscape is full of exciting places for every kind of traveler. You'll find everything from iconic European cities to trendy European destinations 2024. The continent is a treasure trove of culture, architecture, and food. Whether you want to see must-see European cities, vibrant European cities, or historic European destinations, there's something for everyone15.
London leads as the top European travel hotspot 2024, shining in 12 out of 27 categories15. Paris, the City of Light, is close behind, known for its green city vibe15. Berlin has jumped to third place, drawing visitors with its lively cultural European hotspots and nightlife15.
Madrid and Rome are also top picks, each offering unique experiences15. Amsterdam, Istanbul, and Milan are must-sees too, with their mix of culture and beauty16.
There are also new stars on the rise. Riga, Latvia, is affordable and charming, with a mix of old and new architecture16. Brasov, Romania, has a medieval feel and easy train access. Ljubljana, Slovenia, sits at the foot of the Julian Alps, making it a picturesque spot16.
Looking for the best European city trips 2024? You'll find everything from budget-friendly spots to romantic getaways. The top European destinations 2024 promise unforgettable experiences, from cultural gems to hidden treasures16.
| City | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Oslo, Norway | Average high temperature in August: 21°C17 Average low temperature in August: 13°C17 |
| La Gomera, Canary Islands | Average high temperature in August: 28°C17 Average low temperature in August: 21°C17 |
| Sopot, Poland | Average high temperature in August: 22°C17 Average low temperature in August: 12°C17 |
| Sylt, Germany | Average high temperature in August: 20°C17 Average low temperature in August: 16°C17 |
| Lake Bled, Slovenia | Average high temperature in August: 28°C17 Average low temperature in August: 16°C17 |
As we plan for 2024 Europe travel guide, the best cities are ready to welcome you. Whether it's a popular European travel 2024 or a quick European weekend getaway, there's something for everyone. The must-visit European cities and Europe's hotspots 2024 are waiting for you.
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