12 Top European Destinations for 2019 (Picked by Travel Experts)
These 12 European destinations you might not have considered are poised to be some of the hottest travel spots in 2019, according to our all-star panel of travel experts.
Get ready for a serious case of wanderlust as we explore 2019’s hottest emerging European destinations.
How’d we select such an awesome list? We took dozens of nominations from tourism boards around the world, pared them down to the best, and then a panel of the world’s top travel bloggers picked these winning 2019 European destinations.
This is the first in our annual series of the best emerging destinations for 2019.
Also be sure to check out our guides to backpacking Europe and picking the best backpack for traveling Europe.
Ok, ready to dive in?
Faroe Islands
Winner of Our 2019 Judges’ Award
The winner of our Judges’ Top Choice Award – and the only destination to be picked on every single judges’ ballot – the Faroe Islands beckon visitors with mythical mountains, homes covered in hobbit-like turf, and miles of still greenery dotted by only the occasional grazing sheep. With a population of just 50,000 people and a remote location far off the continental shore, these magical islands may be one of the last few unspoiled travel destinations in Europe. That may change soon, though, as the word is out about the Faroe Islands – the perfect playground for your senses in 2019.
Slovenia
A repeat winner worth visiting again and again
The only destination making a return from our list of 2018 European destinations, you’ll have a hard time not falling in love with Slovenia (it is, after all, the only country in the world with the word “love” in its name). From the Alps to the Mediterranean Sea, Slovenia’s landscapes make for some of the most surreal vistas in Europe. And foodies will find themselves in paradise here, as Slovenia’s culinary scene continues to win global accolades for its profoundly original yet utterly mouthwatering fare.
Read Next:
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Swedish Lapland
8 seasons (yes, 8) promise magical experiences
Located in the Arctic, Swedish Lapland is perfect for eco-conscious travelers looking for off-the-beaten path adventures. From midnight sun horseback riding, to bear spotting, to dog sledding, to forest safaris, there is something utterly unique to do here no matter the season. Oh, and speaking of seasons: there are eight of them to consider for your trip, from summer-fall until spring-winter (yep, it’s a thing). Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to catch a glimpse of the famous Northern Lights!
Costa Brava, Spain
Tiny coves and medieval towns beckon
It’s just up the Catalonian coast from one of Europe’s most popular tourism destinations (Barcelona), but Costa Brava offers an authentic and quiet escape from the bustle of the city. You’ll find sapphire waters lapping up against dusty coves, quirky medieval towns, and some of the best gastronomy the Mediterranean has to offer. Almost a third of Costa Brava is protected natural areas, making it a great place to explore wild beaches away from the crowds. It’s hard to believe a destination in Spain this beautiful is still such a well-kept secret (though that may change in 2019!).
Related Reads: Do I Need Travel Insurance for Spain?, Best Places to Visit in Spain
Hvar, Croatia
Island vibes with a splash of history
Perhaps the best known destination on this list, this tiny island in Croatia will celebrate the 150th anniversary of its tourism society this year. If Hvar isn’t on your radar already, it should be. Croatia is safe, plus it offers fascinating history at its four UNESCO World Heritage sites, sweeping vistas from dozens of points across the island, and some of the clearest turquoise water you’ll find this side of the Maldives. Though once thought of only as a summer destination, Hvar is beautiful year-round and one of the things to do in Croatia worth adding to your 2019 Croatia itinerary or road trip route regardless of season.
Related Reads: How to Insure a Croatia Trip
Kiev, Ukraine
A cosmopolitan city ready for its moment
When you think of cultural capitals spilling over with funky arts scenes, vibrant nightlife, and world-class gastronomy, Kiev may not be the first European city that comes to mind. But perhaps it should be. It is, after all, the capital of Europe’s largest country by area (and, yes, it is safe to travel Ukraine, by the way). And you’ll find everything you’d come to expect from a city break in one of Europe’s more famous cities, all without the crowds of fanny-pack-sporting tourists or the price tag. Add in a touch of Ukraine’s unique culture, and you have all the makings of a great 2019 city vacation.
Brno, Czech Republic
A dynamic university town on the upswing
The Czech Republic’s student city is only beginning to find a spot on most travelers’ maps. In Brno they’ll find a creative hub filled with art, food, and culture galore. Trendy cafes line streets just around the corner from distinctive pubs and fashionable bistros. And music lovers will be in for a real treat, as only in Brno can you hear a jazz concert in a former 10-Z atomic bomb shelter!
Soča Valley, Slovenia
A nature-lover’s paradise locked in the Alps
Yep, Slovenia is on this list twice. And you know what? If anything, that’s not enough. Because the awe-inspiring Soča Valley is worth a dedicated spot all by itself. This is a land carved by emerald green waters flowing between Alpine peaks, a natural paradise whose siren song is so strong that you may never be able to escape. Kayak or raft down swirling waters, para-glide over the tops of alpine peaks, or dine at one of the best restaurants in the world at Ana Ros’s Hisa Franko. Whatever adventure you choose, you’re sure to be left with one question: “how does everyone not know about this place already?”
Serbia
First-class amenities on a budget
A country that has slowly crawled out of its dark past and opened its arms to the world, Serbia offers one of the best value travel destinations in all of Europe. In Belgrade, you’ll find many things to do: throbbing nightlife at floating river clubs, one of the best street art scenes in the world, and a charming old town inside a fortress. Outside of the capital, you’ll find tranquil rivers cascading down lush green valleys, charming towns and villages, and loads of history at every turn. Best yet, Serbia’s southern location means it can be visited whatever time of year you go to Europe.
Related Reads:
- Best Places to Visit in Serbia
- Zemun Serbia – A Local’s Guide
- 23 Things to do in Novi Sad
- Serbia Travel Insurance
Liechtenstein
A tiny mountain enclave that packs a big punch
Admit it, you probably haven’t thought much of this country since your middle school geography (or spelling!) bee. Best known for its size (it’s the sixth smallest country in the world), Liechtenstein is a place only the savviest of travelers have ever thought to explore. But take the leap and you’ll be rewarded with imposing castles set against majestic mountains, top-notch ski resorts, and breathtaking panoramic vistas. And 2019 is an especially great year to visit Liechtenstein, when the country will celebrate its 300th anniversary.
Denmark
Further off the beaten path than you might think
Sure, Copenhagen receives its fair share of visitors. But the entire country of Denmark is worthy of a spot atop your list of 2019 European destinations. Scandinavia’s smallest kingdom is dotted by Baroque castles and palaces that are just calling out for a visit. Or you can travel to North Jutland and witness the unique natural phenomenon of two seas clashing into each other. Or just check out its white sandy beaches (see the video to the right if you don’t believe me!). Whatever you decide to do on your trip to Denmark, you’re sure to soon understand why its one of the happiest nations on the planet.
Kent, England
The Garden of England awaits just a few hours from London
Just a few hours from the popular attractions of London, but a world away in pace, Kent is one of Great Britain’s hottest emerging destinations for 2019, featuring charming seaside towns, expansive vineyards, and a booming arts and music scene. 2019 will also mark the 900th anniversary of the absolutely picturesque Leeds Castle (see the above photo – and try not to drool). Oh, and if you enjoy a drink or two, you’re sure to be in heaven here. Craft breweries and cider mills are plentiful. Or oenophiles can check out Chapel Down Winery, famous for providing English Sparkling Wine for the Royal Wedding.
👉 Related Guides: Where to Stay in London, United Kingdom Travel Guides
That’s it for this year’s list of the best emerging European destinations!
Thanks to our awesome judges: The Blonde Abroad, Nomadic Matt, Wandering Earl, My Life’s a Travel Movie, and Be My Travel Muse.
And if you’re planning a Euro Trip, don’t miss these articles:
- Best Travel Backpacks for Europe
- What is the Best Time to Travel Europe?
- Hostel Jobs in Europe
- 11 Best Places to Backpack in Europe
Which European destination is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
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What a great list! I’ve been pouring over the destinations in Europe and in South America, and drooling over all the places we’ve not yet been, even as full time travelers! Okay, we’ve been to a fair amount, but this just makes me want to travel even more!
Zach, If you want to visit beautiful places, NOT on this drafted list, go visit, Russia, Greece (Crete), Cyprus, Romania (Bucharest and all of Transylvania with history of over 2000 years or he Delta Danube, Transfagarasan and Transalpina – people all over the world go ride these roads because of their spectacular views and the glacier lakes), Hungary (Budapest), Belgium – Antwerpen and Brugge. This list for me is very poorly written, and I have traveled all over Europe, America and South America so I can give you an honest opinion about Europe since I have visited nearly all of them. (Croatia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Hungary, France, Belgium, Holland, Spain, Portugal, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Romania, Greece, Cyprus, England, Ireland, Italy)
Nate, dear, you clearly haven’t visited Romania or Hungary since they’re not on your list. It’s a shame because Romania and Hungary, by the way, are a thousand times prettier that some of the destinations you mentioned there. Perhaps you should have visited ALL of Europe’s countries before you made this list. Or Belgium, – Brugge… Really? England? Very disappointing top 12 – which btw, you have Slovenia in there twice. And Faroe Islands – please don’t send tourists there when they have the annual traditional hunting massacre of the orcas. It would be a shame for anyone not used to that to watch such horrifying scenes.
Hi Simona,
I’ve been to and loved both Romania and Hungary! They are definitely great destinations.
For this list we solicit nominations from tourism boards around the world and then I gather top travel influencers to vote on the winners (not me). I think we have a great list of incredible places, but you mention some other solid ones as well. Thanks for your input.
Thanks,
Nate