Best destinations in Europe for 2024
The European Best Destinations (EBD) organisation has surveyed the trendiest places in Europe this year from over one million travellers from 172 countries to publish their list of “Best European Destinations 2024.”
As the long-awaited summer holidays loom enticingly on the horizon, holidaymakers are looking for possible summer destinations for 2024.
Quality of life, sustainability and cultural activities throughout the year were some criteria to curate the top 20 destinations list selected by the European Best Destinations (EBD) organisation in their survey for 2024. These destinations will be actively promoted to tourists throughout the year under the banner "European Best Destination 2024".
1. Marbella, Spain
Marbella took the top position with a record-breaking 149,192 votes, a first for a Spanish destination ever. It is cited as “a sunny, five-star, natural, sporty, gastronomic destination with everything to please the most demanding travellers”. It won the best Golf Destinations in Europe, together with the categories of best food and shopping. It boasts world-class golf courses and scenic views of mountains and the azure waters of the Mediterranean.
The city is a gastronome’s paradise with a whopping three Michelin-starred restaurants and countless others to suit any palate, from Mediterranean to Thai. Food played a pivotal role in ranking Marbella at number one.
This Andalusian city has over 300 days of sunshine a year, so outdoor activities are almost guaranteed.
The variety of accommodations available caters to families, romantic getaways or anything in between.
The laid-back lifestyle, sceneries, and constant sunshine can entice even the most hardened traveller. Tourists are likely to return to the sun-drenched shores of Marbella repeatedly.
2. Monaco
Monaco takes the coveted second place. It appears on the shortlist for Sustainable Destination because of its deep and abiding commitment to protecting the ocean, promoting sustainable tourism and a carbon-free future.
Survey respondents, in the category of couples between the ages of 25-45, rated it the best in the Riviera– beating out Cannes and Nice.
Monaco is renowned for its prestigious sporting and cultural events, extravagant shopping experiences and exciting nightlife. This unique but tiny European destination offers the best shopping experiences, outdoor and water activities, wellness and many cuisines.
EBD endorses the Principality as ideal for the whole family, friends or a romantic stay with that special someone because the city offers an array of hotels and amenities. Glamorous Monaco melds sophistication with culture, history and luxurious leisure, all in a safe and secure entertaining destination.
At the top of sightseeing places is Monaco-Ville with the Prince's Palace, museums and awe-inspiring vistas. Or you can stroll around Port Hercule, where you will be greeted by fishing boats and super yachts— you can sample local specialities to round off your Monaco experience. For some glamour, visit Place du Casino and the iconic Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. You can view the coastlines of France and Italy from the Tête de Chien promontory.
Tourists who prefer “green” holiday destinations will be happy to learn that Monaco has been engaged in “green development” for many years and remains committed to protecting nature.
3. Malta
The Mediterranean country of Malta appears at third position. The typical Mediterranean climate attracts people from all over for the almost year-round sunshine.
This country is well-known for its food and wine in addition to its historic buildings, and is voted one of the best underwater diving sites worldwide. Many resorts and luxury hotels offer a wide variety of activities.
Malta has a unique fusion of elements from the various peoples that came to their shores over the last few thousand years. There are depictions from prehistoric people to ancient cultures like the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Knights of St. John.
It is the ideal destination for families, friends or romantic holidays. It has won the sustainable-tourism award many times by the European Commission.
Additionally, Malta is the best LGBTQ+ destination and has appeared at number one on the Rainbow Europe Map for the last few consecutive years.
4. Geneva, Switzerland
The Swiss city of Geneva boasts scenic views of the imposing Alps, clear alpine lakes, rolling green hills and quaint villages dotting the countryside. All of which can be enjoyed in any season. It comes in at number four on the list. Additionally, Geneva holds the ranking for Best Quality of Life and is the Swiss city with the most votes for every consecutive year of the EBD survey.
Like the other cities on this list, Geneva is a fabulous blend of heritage and modernity. It offers visitors varying experiences. Despite being the second-largest Swiss city, it still has an exclusive blend of historical beauty and a vibrant cultural scene.
Rich traditions of precision watch-making and delectable chocolate production are just some of the attractions for tourists.
Five-star restaurants and a wide variety of outdoor activities are all on offer to the visitor.
A few recent additions to the activities in the city are Science Getaway, which is perfect for all of the family, public beaches and the ubiquitous chocolate tours.
5. Batumi, Adjara Region, Georgia
Batumi is the new favourite destination at number five and is considered one of the trendiest destinations for the year. This city offers the best of European charm but at affordable prices.
The rich history integrates seamlessly with the modern and cosmopolitan city without detracting from the abundance of natural beauty that surrounds the city.
Splendid nineteenth-century architecture, including churches, mosques and synagogues, depicts how diverse cultures and religions co-existed here peacefully over the centuries. Newer buildings with European-style squares and streets house five-star hotels. The city hosts many international art exhibitions and sporting championships during the year.
It boasts no less than three National parks with UNESCO’s seal of approval as World’s Natural Heritage sites. The area also has a 19th-century Botanical Garden full of rare plant species which is worth a visit.
Holidaymakers can bask in the sun on the beach during the day and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Foodies will not be disappointed with the smorgasbord of cuisines on offer in the city.
This holiday destination is ideal for families, groups of friends and even for a romantic getaway. It has numerous awards to describe it as one of Europe’s five best destinations to visit. This cityis considered one of the safest European destinations compared to other major European cities like Paris, London and Vienna.
The other top ten destinations in Europe for 2024 are Riga, the capital of Latvia; Madeira, Portugal; Florence, Italy; London, United Kingdom and Reykjavik, Iceland.Share your experience, participate in the discussion and leave comments in our forum HERE.
Author: KashGoExpat Mum in the Desert and content writer for EasyExpat.com