Millions of people from all over the globe visit Europe annually, for city breaks, overland trips, beach holidays, ski trips or cultural sightseeing adventures to see world famous attractions like The Great Tower of Pisa in Italy to the Louvre in France.
If you are planning a trip to Europe for the first time, whether for tourism or to work abroad, take note on what to do and where to visit first in Europe and make it an epic lifetime experience!
The locations featured on our list are perfect for students and graduates looking to go on an adventure in the continent and if you would like to spend longer in each destination we have also included links for how to apply to find work.
1. First Stop, France
One of the most visited countries in the world is France. The capital, Paris, is where famous masterpieces, sculptures and paintings by the greatest artist of all time can be seen.
Paris is home to the iconic Eiffel Tower, and it is also one of the fashion capitals of the world. The beautiful south coast of France is the perfect summer destination whilst in winter there are some of the best European ski resorts located here.
If you want to learn French in France there are language schools located throughout the country.
Best places to visit include:
• Paris
• Nice
• Montpellier
Find seasonal jobs in France.
2. Italy
What first comes to mind when you hear ‘Italy’? Mouthwatering food! Italians are known for being great cooks and once you taste some of the world’s best pizza and pasta, then you’ll want to stay.
Aside from the food, you can do city breaks in places like Milan, Rome or Naples or apply to work a ski season.
Best to visit are:
• Venice (a very romantic city)
• Florence
• Tuscany
Find seasonal jobs in Italy.
3. England
The UK is one of the most appealing destinations on the planet famous for the Royal family and football. There are so many cities to visit, from Liverpool in the north of England to the diverse and sprawling capital London.
Best to visit:
• London
• Liverpool
• Brighton
Find seasonal jobs in the UK.
4. The Netherlands
Also known as Holland, Netherlands is a great place not only for tourist but also for expatriates who wants to move in a country where it offer a healthy living.
Dutch are very warm and polite and it’s its people that make the Netherlands special.
One of the most popular places in the Netherlands is Amsterdam. Bicycles are often used for transportation, the government is very strict when it comes to the city’s cleanliness and there are lots of cultural attractions.
Best to visit:
· Amsterdam
· Stedelijk Museum, where the works of Picasso and Monet can be found.
· Damrak
View our guide to working in the Netherlands.
5. Spain
Who would not fall in love with the beauty of Spain? Not only are Spanish people are good looking, there are also lots to see in Spain from world famous cities to spectacular islands.
Barcelona is a must see city, with magnificent architecture some of which dates back more than a thousand years. The food is also delicious and its perfect for a European beach/city break.
If you are looking for summer work abroad then Spain is our top choices, who wouldn’t want to get paid to live and work in places like the Balearic or Canary islands.
Top places to go:
· Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
· Valencia
· Costa Blanca
• Islands like Ibiza, Mallorca and Tenerife
Find seasonal jobs in Spain.
6. Greece
Greece is a spectacular country with so many historical attractions and beautiful islands. You can still see temples and structures dating back centuries, whilst if a summer break is appealing there are some of the best beaches in Europe located here.
The natural beauty of Greece will blow you away, from the magnificent views of Santorini to the beaches of Rhodes.
Best to visit:
• Athens
• Santorini
• Mykonos
Find seasonal jobs in Greece.
7. Switzerland
If you want a very relaxing nature trip or just want to taste the richest and tastiest chocolate in the world, then save the sweetest and the best destination for last, Switzerland.
Switzerland is known for three things: chocolates, Swiss knives and watches. Aside from the goodies, the country itself is very clean, luxury, and perfect all round round for a summer or winter in the stunning Alps.
Best places to visit:
• The Alps
• Bern
• Zurich
Browse seasonal jobs in Switzerland.
Plan Your European Break Today
Aside from some of the most famous tourism destinations, Europe is more known for its strong governance, welcoming societies and relaxed lifestyle.
We know there are hundreds of amazing places you could visit in Europe, but hopefully our list has given you some ideas for where to go.
You might also like to view our guide to working in Europe for options how to move here permanently.