🏖️ 35 Best Places to Visit in Europe: 2025 Ultimate Coastal Guide by Local Experts
Discover the best places to visit in Europe with our 12,000-word local's guide to England's most spectacular coastline. Europe's 697km shoreline - named #1 Coastal Destination in the 2025 UK Tourism Awards - offers everything from hidden coves to world-class cruise-accessible harbors. Recent data shows:
2025 Europe Tourism Stats
- 5.4 million annual visitors (19% from cruise passengers)
- 94% satisfaction rate for coastal attractions
- £1.2 billion generated by marine tourism
Cruise Visitor Growth
- 42% increase in cruise ship stops since 2020
- New deep-water terminals at Falmouth
- Partnerships with Princess Cruises for shore excursions
Cruise Pro Tip:
Many best places to visit in Europe are accessible via shore excursions from major cruise lines including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line. The Europe Cruise Pass offers discounted entry to 20+ attractions.
🏆 35 Best Places to Visit in Europe - Ranked & Mapped
Cruise Passenger Tip:
Many of these best places to visit are included in shore excursions from MSC Cruises and P&O Cruises. The Europe Explorer Pass (available at cruise terminals) provides combined entry to multiple sites.
North Coast Must-Visits
- Tintagel Castle - King Arthur's legendary castle with new English Heritage footbridge
- Padstow - Foodie heaven with Rick Stein's seafood empire
- Newquay - Surf capital with 11 golden beaches
- St Ives - Art galleries and turquoise waters
- Bedruthan Steps - Dramatic sea stacks
South Coast Gems
- St Michael's Mount - Tidal island castle
- The Lizard - Britain's southernmost point
- Falmouth - Deep natural harbor frequented by Cunard ships
- Kynance Cove - Turquoise waters and serpentine rocks
- Mousehole - Picture-perfect fishing village
Rank |
Destination |
Why Visit? |
Cruise Access |
1 |
St Michael's Mount |
Tidal island with medieval castle |
Shuttle from Silversea at Penzance |
2 |
The Minack Theatre |
Clifftop open-air theater |
Excursion via Azamara |
2025 Cruise Line Partnerships:
Several cruise companies now offer specialized Europe itineraries: