Europe is a captivating continent filled with wonders at every corner. If you’re struggling to decide where to travel in Europe in 2024, worry no more; we’re here to help.
Building upon our extensive list of top destinations for 2023, our team of local experts across Europe is once again ready to assist you in planning your travels for 2024. From sunny volcanic islands and charming coastal towns to vibrant cityscapes and breathtaking natural wonders, our curated list highlights the best places to visit throughout the year. Continue reading to discover where to travel in Europe in 2024, complete with a recommendation for each month.
Best Travel Destinations in Europe for 2024
January
Athens, Greece
When planning a trip to Greece, most travelers opt to visit during the spring or summer months. While this is ideal for exploring the Greek Islands, winter might be the best time for visiting Athens. Summer brings intense heat and hordes of tourists, making winter a more pleasant option to explore the city.
January is one of the finest months to experience Athens. Following the holiday rush, the city becomes much quieter and more peaceful. Restaurants, bars, and cafés are predominantly filled with locals, and popular archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, see fewer visitors.
If you’re concerned about the weather in January, you’ll find that most days are sunny and mild. Even on cooler days, you can enjoy outdoor dining in beautiful neighborhoods like Plaka and Psyrri, where many establishments provide cozy heaters to keep you comfortable.
Our travel specialists can create an ideal itinerary for your Athens adventure. If time permits, consider including a tour of some of Greece’s remarkable mainland destinations.
February
Lisbon, Portugal
From one sunny European capital to another, we recommend Lisbon for your February getaway. While February may be one of the cooler months in Lisbon (considered mild compared to other regions of Europe), it is also one of the driest. This makes it perfect for long strolls as you soak in the beautiful sights of the city without the hassle of heavy rainfall.
Besides falling in love with Lisbon’s stunning outdoor venues, the city boasts numerous acclaimed museums and an array of charming cafés, bars, and fado houses, ideal for those chillier days. Don’t miss taking a ride on the vintage Tram 28, which offers a delightful tour of the city in a classic wooden tram.
Visiting in February also allows you to partake in the city’s vibrant Carnival festivities, with events taking place throughout the month, peaking around February 9-14. For detailed information on specific celebrations, our local experts in the Iberian Peninsula are happy to provide guidance. They can also help create the perfect itinerary for your dream trip to Portugal.
If you’re interested in experiencing a more traditional Carnival during your visit, the charming town of Torres Vedras, less than an hour from Lisbon, is renowned for hosting the best Carnival festivities in Portugal.
March
Nafplio, Greece
The arrival of spring calls for another Greek getaway, this time to the picturesque seaside town of Nafplio. Known for its scenic beauty year-round, March might be particularly enchanting for a visit.
The 25th of March marks the celebration of the beginning of the Greek War of Independence, and there are few places as steeped in this history as Nafplio and the surrounding Peloponnese Peninsula, which was the first capital of Greece.
While in Nafplio, you can explore the impressive Palamidi Castle, where one of Greece’s most celebrated heroes was imprisoned after the war, and visit the site where the first governor of Greece was assassinated. These are just a couple of the historic locations that fill the town, alongside its charming old town and beautiful beachfront with breathtaking views.
March is a phenomenal time to be in Southern Greece, as the first flowers of spring begin to bloom. Consider reaching out to JayWay to extend your itinerary and discover more of the enchanting Peloponnese beyond Nafplio.
April
Bayeux, France
The charming town of Bayeux in Northern France is renowned primarily for two things: the iconic Bayeux Tapestry, which chronicles the events leading to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, and its historical significance during D-Day. This marks the anniversary of the Allied landings on June 6, 1944, a pivotal moment in the liberation of Western Europe.
This year, Bayeux commemorates the 80th anniversary of this monumental amphibious invasion—just one reason to consider visiting in 2024. For history enthusiasts, a 13-day itinerary can guide you through both World Wars while you explore key sites in Bayeux and other notable cities in France and Belgium.
Beyond its historical relevance, Bayeux is a picturesque destination with a charming old town, making it perfect for a spring getaway, especially towards late April.
May
Wachau Valley, Austria
May is a fantastic time to travel anywhere in Europe, and for this month, we present the enchanting Wachau Valley in Austria, a destination that is both extraordinary and often overlooked.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts breathtaking natural landscapes adorned with vineyards, castles, and historical ruins. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, culture seekers, and wine aficionados alike. But what makes May particularly special is the famous Wachau Wine Spring Festival.
During this event, all local wineries welcome visitors, creating a lively atmosphere. You can leisurely stroll through village after village, sampling exquisite wines and soaking in the delightful spring weather amidst stunning scenery. This year’s festival will take place from May 4-5. Since you’re already in Austria, don’t miss the chance to embark on a 17-day itinerary that covers the entire country; it’s sure to be one of your best travel experiences. If you’re looking for something shorter, we offer an 8-day “Austria Abridged” itinerary that also includes time in the Wachau Valley.
June
Paris, France
As Oscar Wilde famously said, when good Americans die, they go to Paris. However, we encourage you to explore the French capital much sooner than that. Paris remains one of the most beautiful, culturally rich, and historically significant cities you can visit.
From the iconic Eiffel Tower to world-renowned museums and charming artistic districts, Paris is a city of elegance and allure that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Though Paris shines year-round, June boasts a unique allure. Visiting before the Olympics (starting July 26th) means you can enjoy the city’s splendor before the large crowds arrive.
Additionally, the Fête de la Musique, a celebration of music, occurs on June 21st to coincide with the summer solstice, offering the perfect chance to experience Paris in a new light. Since you’ll likely be in Paris for more than a day, be sure to check out our one-week itinerary that encompasses all the unique experiences and landmarks that make Paris so enchanting. Moreover, late June is also the peak season for lavender in Provence, and we offer a fantastic 10-day itinerary combining Paris, Provence, and the French Riviera for you to enjoy.
July
The Baltic States
Who doesn’t appreciate an underdog narrative? The Baltic States—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—celebrated their 20th independence anniversary from the Soviet Union in 2021, during the pandemic.
Unfortunately, those celebratory moments were overshadowed, and interest in these emerging Baltic nations has waned since their peak popularity in the late 2000s. Yet they have so much to offer: charming Old Towns, vibrant Bohemian areas, stunning beaches, delicious cuisines, and so much more.
So, why visit this year? You can indulge in luxurious five-star accommodations for less than what you’d pay for basic three-star options in Western Europe. The weather is pleasantly moderate at a time when many regions in Europe are sweltering. Here, you’ll experience an off-the-beaten-path adventure while others are packed tightly in popular tourist traps like the Amalfi Coast.
Consider our 10-day itinerary that evenly splits time between the capitals of the Baltic States, or extend your trip to include Estonia’s summer capital, Pärnu, with its expansive sandy beaches and spas, Latvia’s main beach town, Liepāja, or explore the Curonian Spit in Lithuania, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
August
Gdansk, Poland
Europe’s summer can be delightful, especially when you choose the right destinations to escape the heat. Poland is an excellent choice, offering diverse landscapes, an intriguing history, and delectable local dishes—all wrapped in pleasantly cool weather. Therefore, if you’re pondering where to visit in August, Gdansk comes highly recommended.
Why Gdansk? Beyond its storybook-like Old Town, Gdansk in August is home to the renowned St. Dominic’s Fair, a cultural and commercial event that dates back to 1260. Often referred to as one of Europe’s oldest and largest open-air markets, the Fair promises a memorable experience.
This year, St. Dominic’s Fair will take place from July 27th to August 18th. Our team in Poland can provide you with all the essential details. If you have extra time, consider a two-week itinerary that showcases the best of Poland, including must-visit cities like Krakow and Warsaw.
September
The Dolomites, Italy
No list of the best places to visit in 2024 would be complete without a touch of Italian charm. Since temperatures remain warm in southern Italy, September is the perfect time to venture north to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomite Mountains.
Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, the Dolomites have something for everyone. Visiting in September means you can enjoy pleasant weather while hiking or simply taking in the stunning scenery that will leave you awestruck.
September also coincides with the Gran Festa da d’Istà, a three-day festival showcasing local culture, gastronomy, and traditions. The highlight of the event is the Parade of The Ladins, an ethnic group deeply connected to Northern Italy’s heritage.
Whether you’re based in Alta Badia or Cortina d’Ampezzo, our knowledgeable Italian team can guide you to the charming village of Canazei, where this exceptional festival occurs. While this year’s dates are yet to be announced, rest assured our local experts will find the necessary information for you.
October
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, a perennial favorite, is an enchanting gem. This jewel of the Adriatic is taking steps to reduce the impact of cruise ship tourists while still attracting plenty of visitors during peak season. October is a wonderful shoulder-season month to explore Croatia, particularly Dubrovnik. The summer heat and crowds have diminished, but flights remain plentiful, making travel easier compared to late fall and winter.
The weather typically hovers in the high 60s, with plenty of sunny, dry days to enjoy.
Not only can you soak up the atmosphere in this relaxed old walled city, but you can also explore nearby islands, such as Lokrum or venture further to Korcula, known as Croatia’s greenest island. Traveling during shoulder season also facilitates day trips to Montenegro, with shorter wait times at the border so you can enjoy more of the picturesque coastal towns like Kotor and Perast.
Early October is still warm enough for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear Adriatic waters, which have been warmed throughout the summer. All in all, we believe October is an optimal time to discover Croatia, and there’s no better place to start your journey than where JayWay first began, experiencing some of the warmest hospitality in Europe.
November
Andalusia, Spain
Nothing beats the allure of a warm, sunny escape during the colder months. As Northern and Central Europe begin to experience melancholy winter weather, the sun remains bright in the south. That’s why we recommend Andalusia, a stunning region in Southern Spain, for your November travels.
In November, Andalusia offers pleasantly warm weather, making it an ideal time to explore the historical landmarks and cultural treasures of cities like Seville and Granada, both rich in unique architecture and enchanting small-town charm. It’s also an excellent month for venturing into the scenic countryside to visit villages like Ronda and Nerja.
From heartfelt flamenco performances to savoring delectable local cuisine, Andalusia promises a sensory journey. The magic of Spain extends beyond its southern region, so consider planning a trip that explores this fascinating country, which is sure to become one of your favorites. Our itinerary, which spans from Northern to Southern Spain, could be just what you need.
December
Strasbourg, France
And just like that, we conclude our list of top travel destinations for 2024 in the most festive month of the year. We can think of no better place to celebrate than the Christmas capital itself: Strasbourg.
With its remarkably picturesque historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Strasbourg is a delightful city to visit throughout the year, but it becomes particularly enchanting during the holiday season.
Boasting over ten Christmas markets, one of Europe’s tallest Christmas trees, and countless stalls selling warm drinks and delicious treats, the city teems with holiday spirit, offering a magical atmosphere as you prepare for a joyous Christmas and New Year.
Our travel advisors would love to craft a customized festive itinerary for you, potentially including stops in Germany, the birthplace of the Christmas market tradition.
Travel With JayWay in 2024
No matter where you decide to travel in 2024, ensure you avoid the stress of planning and jump straight into your adventure by entrusting your vacation to our expert travel advisors. Share your rough travel ideas for Europe in 2024, and JayWay will arrange a trip of a lifetime for you. Contact us today to prepare for an unforgettable European experience, the JayWay way!
Born and raised in Athens, Maria is passionate about travel and storytelling, making her the perfect choice for her role as our content manager.
