Hey there! Are you ready to embark on a journey through the mesmerizing islands of Europe? In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 islands that offer diverse and beautiful landscapes. Ryan Shirley, a renowned travel explorer, will be our guide as we discover the hidden gems and popular attractions of these stunning European islands. From the Balearic Islands in Spain known for clear waters and cliff jumping spots, to the Canary Islands off the coast of northwest Africa with their unique volcanic features, we’ll cover it all. You’ll also get a taste of the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores, the picturesque Isle of Skye in Scotland, and the captivating Zakynthos in Greece. So get ready to be awed by the breathtaking beauty of these European island paradises!
Top 10 Islands To Visit In Europe
Balearic Islands, Spain
The Balearic Islands are a group of islands located in Spain’s Mediterranean Sea. These islands, including Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera, offer a true Mediterranean paradise. With crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and some of the world’s best cliff jumping spots, the Balearic Islands are a must-visit destination for any island lover. One of the highlights in Mallorca is Cala Varques, a stunning beach with sandy shores and prime cliff jumping spots. The combination of white limestone cliffs, lush green vegetation, and crystal blue waters creates a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. Another must-visit spot is the road to Sa Calobra, known for its hairpin turns and loops that wind down the mountains, offering stunning views. Ibiza, on the other hand, is famous for its nightlife and party scene, but it also boasts some of the world’s best beaches and scenic spots. Isla de Es Vedra is a rugged and uninhabited island that rises over 400 meters straight out of the ocean, creating a dramatic backdrop. The Balearic Islands truly have something for every traveler, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a vibrant party scene.
Canary Islands, Spain
Located off the coast of northwest Africa, the Canary Islands are known for their unique landscapes and volcanic features. Often referred to as the “Hawaiian Islands of Europe,” the Canary Islands offer a similar vibe and natural beauty. Tenerife, the largest and most populated island in the archipelago, is dominated by Mount Teide, a dormant volcano and Spain’s highest peak. The cliffs of Los Gigantes, towering 800 meters above the ocean, create a majestic sight reminiscent of prehistoric times. Forte Ventura, the second-largest island, offers breathtaking landscapes as well, with isolated beaches like Playa de Cofete backed by desolate mountains. Other islands in the archipelago, such as Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, offer their own unique charms. Lanzarote is known for its volcanic landscapes and lunar-like surfaces, while Gran Canaria boasts stunning sand dunes and rugged coastlines. The Canary Islands are a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventurers, providing endless opportunities for exploration and awe-inspiring sights.
Azores, Portugal
The Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, are often described as a hybrid between New Zealand and Hawaii. These islands, belonging to Portugal, offer stunning landscapes and natural wonders that rival those of their better-known counterparts. The largest island, Sao Miguel, is home to an impressive twin lake called Lagoas das Sete Cidades, situated in the crater of a volcano. One lake is green, while the other is blue, creating a striking contrast that captivates visitors. Another natural gem in the Azores is Mount Pico, the highest point in Portugal. This stratovolcano stands at over 7,700 feet and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscapes. With rolling pastures, green scenery, and unique geological formations, the Azores provide a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking an escape from the ordinary.
Madeira, Portugal
Located off the northwest coast of Africa, Madeira is an archipelago consisting of four islands. Claimed by Portugal in 1419, Madeira is characterized by its mild climate, rugged mountains, and stunning natural beauty. Famous as the birthplace of Cristiano Ronaldo, this island offers much more than just football superstardom. Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, is a must-visit destination. Just a thirty-minute drive from the capital city of Funchal, this mountain offers unpredictable weather and stunning views. Another highlight is Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira, reaching an impressive 1,861 meters. The island’s unique combination of diverse landscapes, from dramatic coastlines to crater lakes, makes Madeira a truly enchanting destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Svalbard
Located between the North Pole and Norway, Svalbard is an arctic archipelago known for its visa-free zone and polar bears. With a population of over 400 people, mostly from Russia and Ukraine, Svalbard is one of the northernmost inhabited places in the world. Accessible by boat or snowmobile in the winter, this unique destination offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Svalbard is often compared to North Korea due to its unusual nature and remoteness. One of the interesting places to visit on this archipelago is the Russian settlement of Barentsburg. Originally a Dutch mining town in the 1920s, it was sold to the Soviet Union in 1932. Today, Barentsburg is a quirky place that gives visitors a glimpse into a bygone era. The biggest danger on Svalbard is the Arctic cold and the presence of polar bears, which is why it is recommended to carry a gun for protection in some areas. Svalbard’s unique combination of isolation, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife makes it a true bucket-list destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters. This picturesque island offers a coastline full of breathtaking views and secluded spots, making it a haven for beach lovers and sun seekers. One of the highlights of Sardinia is the Bao Knight Coast. Stretching for 40 kilometers, this coastline is characterized by massive limestone cliffs and hidden beaches. Although some of these beaches require a long hike or a boat trip to reach, the effort is worth it for the secluded and pristine beauty they offer. Sardinia’s natural landscapes and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Located within the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands in Norway offer a tropical-like scenery that seems almost surreal. With picturesque towns like Henningsvaer and Reine, this archipelago is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. One must-visit spot in the Lofoten Islands is Cafe Vlika Beach, which is recommended as a hike destination. The four-kilometer round trip trek rewards visitors with stunning views and a sense of serenity. Whether it’s the breathtaking landscapes, the idyllic fishing villages, or the unique atmosphere, the Lofoten Islands offer an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a magical and picturesque destination.
Faroe Islands
Situated between Norway and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are known for their dramatic landscapes and majestic waterfalls. Mulafossur Waterfall, located on the island of Vagar, is a notable attraction with its stunning backdrop of cliffs and the powerful cascade plunging into the ocean. Another highlight of the Faroe Islands is the Drangarnir Sea Stacks, towering rock formations that emerge from the Atlantic waves. These natural wonders create a sense of awe and wonder, showcasing the raw beauty of the islands. With its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and picturesque villages, the Faroe Islands offer a true escape into nature and a chance to witness breathtaking landscapes.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye in Scotland offers visitors a fairy-tale-like experience with its stunning landscapes and natural wonders. From the iconic Old Man of Storr to the enchanting Mealt Falls, this island is filled with must-visit sites that will leave you in awe. The Old Man of Storr is a rock formation that stands tall against the sky, creating a mystical atmosphere. Mealt Falls, on the other hand, cascades down a sea cliff directly into the ocean, creating a breathtaking sight. The Isle of Skye showcases the wild beauty of Scotland, with its rugged hills, serene lochs, and picturesque landscapes. It’s a destination that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
Zakynthos, Greece
Zakynthos, located in Greece, is known for its impressive cliffs and the famous Shipwreck Beach. Shipwreck Beach, also known as Navagio Beach, is a popular tourist spot with a fascinating history. The beach gets its name from the shipwrecked smuggler’s ship that lies stranded on its shores. The towering cliffs that surround the beach create a stunning backdrop, making it a favorite destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Zakynthos also boasts breathtaking views and sunsets from its cliffs, providing a truly magical experience. With its impressive natural beauty and rich history, Zakynthos is a gem in the Mediterranean that will captivate and inspire visitors.
Europe’s islands offer an array of diverse and beautiful landscapes, each with its own unique features and attractions. Whether it’s the crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches of the Balearic Islands, the volcanic landscapes and unique charm of the Canary Islands, or the hybrid between New Zealand and Hawaii found in the Azores, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Madeira’s mild climate and rugged mountains, Svalbard’s arctic allure, Sardinia’s pristine beaches and limestone cliffs, Lofoten Islands’ tropical-like scenery, the Faroe Islands’ dramatic landscapes and waterfalls, the Isle of Skye’s fairy-tale-like experience, and Zakynthos’ impressive cliffs and Shipwreck Beach all offer unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights. Europe’s islands are truly a treasure trove of natural wonders and beauty, waiting to be explored and admired by travelers from around the world.