In the past, bucket lists were created by those with limited time left. They were essentially a list of things to do before you die.
In essence, this is still correct. However, you no longer need to wait until you’re terminally ill or simply retiring to create one. The earlier you think about your bucket list, the more time you’ll have to complete everything on that list.
Despite the internet and the ease of contacting people, the world is still a large place. There are 195 countries in the world. An impressive 193 of these are members of the United Nations. Of course, it’s challenging for the average person to visit all these countries. It would be difficult to visit all 44 countries in Europe!
Whatever you decide, it’s worth adding the following five to your list.
1. The UK
According to UK tourism statistics, over 38 million people visited the UK in 2023, and the number is increasing.
The UK is a comparatively small island. However, it was the center of a huge empire, is still a significant world power, and is a surprisingly stunning country. You can enjoy sandy beaches, beautiful countryside, historic buildings, and the hustle and bustle of London. All you need to do is decide the top UK destinations for your leisurely getaway.
London is generally recognized as one of the greatest cities in the world. You’ll want to visit but move past the capital to get a feel for the historical significance of this country. It’s likely to be a life-changing experience.
2. Italy
Italy is perhaps one of the most desirable destinations in the world. Its capital, Rome, has been important for centuries. As the center of the Roman Empire and other empires since. It is often considered the capital of the world.
Italy has everything you could imagine, from rolling hills and lakes to Roman ruins. You’ll need to plan your visit to explore Rome and check out the amphitheater.
Milan and Florence, the center of fashion and the Renaissance, are also stunning cities worth looking at.
The list of things to do in Italy is virtually endless. You’ll want to find the time to visit lesser-known places, such as Sirmione or Alberobello.
3. France
France has more visitors than any other country in Europe. Naturally, you’ll want to check out Paris, one of the most romantic cities in the world. But, France is also a country full of diverse experiences.
The south of France is full of stunning beaches, while there are impressive chateaus dotted across the country. A large number of these are located in the Loire Valley. Wine lovers will love Bordeaux, known as the city of wine.
It’s a country full of historical monuments, cultural gems, and, some of the best food and wine in the world. It’s not all about high fashion!
4. Greece
Greece is often considered the most beautiful country in Europe. It enjoys sunshine throughout the year, meaning there is always a good time to visit.
Greece and the surrounding islands are famous for their white houses, often with colorful rooves. Of course, the Ancient Greeks lived in this area and it was a critical part of the Roman Empire
You’ll want to check out the sandy beaches, warm turquoise sea, and even try some scuba diving. It’s also worth taking in the Acropolis and Parthenon, the guided tours are worthwhile.
You should also visit the hot springs and volcanic islands. Greece does have something for everyone.
5. Croatia
Croatia is on the other side of the Adriatic Sea, below Slovenia and across from Italy. It’s a beautiful and surprisingly wealthy country that will give you an exceptional vacation.
The waters are clear and warm. It has over 1,000 islands and is full of forests. The countryside is nothing short of breathtaking.
This is an activity lover’s dream vacation, there are so many sporting opportunities. It also has a surprisingly long history. The country was the scene of many historical struggles, such as those between the Ottoman Empire and the Habsburg Empire. Even if you’re not a history buff, the evidence left behind is impressive.
Summing Up
Europe is full of stunning destinations. The simplest way to see everything is to include all your chosen destinations in one trip. If that’s not an option, several trips are still an effective way to see everything this continent has to offer.
The golden rule is simple: with so much to see, plan your trip carefully in advance.