Europe is famous for cities and culture but this continent also has some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world. If you would you like to escape the crowds and experience some of the most stunning locations in Europe there are lots of places to go.
Check out our list of the best national parks to visit in Europe.
1. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Croatia is one of the hottest destinations in Europe right now and no visit would be complete without going to see the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park. This National Park is simple stunning with lots of lakes and waterfalls and amazing views.
2. Dolomites National Park, Italy
The Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park is located in Belluno, Veneto, in northern Italy. In 2009 the Dolomites was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and walking here is such an amazing experience. There are many ways to reach the Dolomites, most tourists fly into nearby cities like Venice, Zurich, or Munich and then drive. Some local and International travel operators also offer tours.
3. Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
Norway is a country of natural beauty and the Jotunheimen National Park is one of the top places to see. There are over 250 mountain peaks, lakes, stunning scenery and wildlife like elk, reindeer and lynx.
4. Caldera de Taburiente National Park, Spain
Located in the beautiful Canary Islands, the Caldera de Taburiente National Park is a spectacular undervisted destination. Most international tourists stay in resorts and spend the day on the beach but if you are looking for something more active you will love the Caldera de Taburiente NP. There is a mountainous arch with spectacular views over the lush green valleys and deep blue ocean in the distance. There are walks and hikes for all fitness levels and abilities.
5. Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland
Iceland is one of the most spectacular countries to travel in Europe both in summer and winter. The breathtaking Vatnajökull National Park is one of the highlights of the country where you can see the famous glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull glacier. This is also an active geothermal location with hotsprings, rivers and impressive waterfalls like Svartifoss and Dettifosis. There are lots of campgrounds dotted around the park and also more accommodation located nearby.
6. Oulanka National Park, Finland
Visit Finland and head to the north of the country and you will get to see the beautiful Oulanka National Park which is one of the highlights of the country. The Oulanka National Park is a popular trekking and outdoor sports destination where you can go walking, hiking, canoeing and fruit picking. There are also lots of unique accommodation located here including wooden cabins.
7. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Scotland
Fancy a trip to Scotland? You must escape the cities and go off the beaten track to see Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Here you will find one of the most most stunning locations in the UK which is home to a famous mountains like Ben More, Be Lomond and Stob Binnein. As well as incredible nature and scenery you can also visit small local villages you can stop off at.
8. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
Located near the city of Dresden in Germany is the Saxon Switzerland National Park is different to most other parks in Europe, there are unique stone formations which are perfect for climbing and hiking. There are also views across the region where you can see places like the Königstein Fortress and the Bastei Bridge.
9. Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy
Travel to the Graian Alps in Northern Italy and you will get to see the Gran Paradiso National Park. This beautiful national park has a lush forest and impressive glaciers and stunning views across the nearby peaks. If you are feeling adventurous you might want to go hiking to the summit of the Gran Paradiso Mountain.
10. Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Located in Žabljak, Eastern Montenegro you will find the Durmitor National Park. A popular winter ski and snowboarding destination, this National Park has glacial lakes, river canyons, huge peaks and unique landscapes.
11. Ordesa National Park, France/Spain
Located on the border between France and Spain in the the Pyrenees Mountain Range you will find the Ordesa National Park. The whole region is breathtaking with amazing views, mountain peaks and exotic wildlife.
12. Triglav National Park, Slovenia
With huge mountains and lush valleys it is easy to see why the Triglav National Park is one of the best places to visit in Slovenia. Here you can witness stunning natural beauty with beautiful lakes and Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia.
13. Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria
Austria is a small country but it packs quite a punch in terms of cities, culture and scenery. The Hohe Tauern National Park is located in the Alps and is the largest nature reserve in the area. The scenery when walking or hiking here will blow you away. Expect lush forests, glaciers, waterfalls and famous local peaks like Großglockner and Großvenediger.
14. Lake District National Park, England
Explore lakes, mountains and picturesq landscape at the Lake District which is one of the most spectacular places to visit in the UK (as seen in the image above). Fresh air, rolling green hills and local towns and villages makes for a true authentic British countryside experience.
Other Places to Consider
These are some other incredible national parks located in Europe:
• Goreme National Park, Turkey
• Wild Taiga, Finland
• Ecrins, France
• Soomaa, Estonia
• Cévennes National Park, France
• Gargano National Park, Italy
• Sarek, Sweden
• Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain
• Bialowieza National Park, Poland
• Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal
• Killarney National Park, Ireland
• Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales
• Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park, Romania
• Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
• Calanques National Park, France
• South Downs National Park, The UK
• Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
• Timanfaya National Park, Spain
• Vanoise National Park, France
• Pirin National Park, Bulgaria
• Wicklow Mountains National Park, Ireland
• Snowdonia National Park, Wales
• National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades, Greece
