The Ultimate Europe Bucket List: The Top 22 Experiences You Can't Miss!

There are few sights more spectacular than the northern lights. The moment that you look up into the night sky and see the mesmerising aurora borealis for the first time is truly an experience you will never forget. Finland is one of the best places to go to experience this natural phenomenon.

While you are there, why not do it in luxury? Experience the northern lights from the comfort and warmth of a bed. In Finland, you can book specially made glass igloos for the ultimate northern lights experience.

With so much to do, see and eat, we could probably give Venice its own bucket list article, but we can't go past the quintessential gondola experience. Make your way through the canals of the floating city with a singing gondolier to guide your way!

Europe is filled with stunning scenery, and the lavender fields in Provence, France are up there with the best. Visit during the summer months and admire the fields of purple that seem to stretch on endlessly.

Pro tip: For the best photos, be sure to visit during the golden hour (the last hour before sunset) to snap a few pics.

Between the blue-domed houses, the spectacular sea views and the seemingly endless sunny days, it's easy to see why Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in Europe. The sunset views from Oia are second to none. Watch the sky turn stunning shades over the white city as the sun slips below the horizon, just be sure to arrive early, the area can get very busy with other tourists.

Or if you are looking for the full Greek experience, why not spend your days island hopping through Greece.

Seeing the Eiffel Tower at any time is a jaw-dropping experience, but seeing the Eiffel Tower lit up at night is sure to sweep you off your feet. In the city of love with the one you love? Be sure to add seeing the Eiffel Tower at night to your bucket list!

If you are looking for some of the most jaw-dropping views in Europe, you really can't go past Italy's Amalfi Coast. One of the best ways to experience the Amalfi coastline is by hiking what is known as the Path of the Gods. This approximately 6km trail runs between the villages of Bomerano and Nocelle and can be quite the workout, but the views are well worth the effort. 

Lapland in Finland feels like a fairy tale come to life. This incredibly beautiful region is located in the northernmost part of Finland and is famous for snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes and forests filled with snow-covered trees.

Lapland is also home to Santa Claus Village! Bring the kids (little and big) to experience that magic of Santa first-hand.

From Santa's village to the Christmas markets, Europe really knows how to spread that festive cheer. European Christmas markets are some of the best in the world, with nothing coming close to their level of tradition.

We recommend checking out the Christmas markets in Cologne, Germany. Here you will find twinkling lights, elaborate decorations and the warmth of festive cheer.

If you are a fan of the wizarding world, you can't go to Europe without visiting some of the Harry Potter filming locations, and what better way to do it than aboard the iconic Hogwarts Express. 

While the actual name of the train is The Jacobite, you can hop aboard for a magical journey through the stunning Scottish Highlands, and even cross the iconic bridge (Glenfinnan Viaduct).

The Leaning Tower of Pisa really speaks for itself. This Unesco world heritage site is a must-visit for anyone who is planning a trip to Italy. Just make sure you take the time to snap a photo of you holding it up!

In October, Munich in Germany plays host to one of the biggest parties in the calendar. It's 16+ days of as much beer as you can responsibly drink, and as many pretzels, as you can responsibly eat!

Football, or 'soccer' as some people call it, is one of, if not the biggest sports in Europe. Aussie football fans will have long dreamed of venturing over to watch their favourite team play at one of many historic stadiums across the continent.

La Boqueria is possibly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you are looking for street food. One of Europe's largest food markets, here you will find an assortment of fruits, sweets and fresh juices.

Pizza, wine, sports cars - Italy is famous for a lot of things, and gelato is up there as one of the best! If you are heading to Italy, be sure to add taste some gelato to your Europe bucket list.

Looking for a recommendation? Head to Fassi Gelateria in Rome, which has been serving gelato since 1880.

The dramatic and beautiful coastline of Ireland is an unforgettable sight. While hiking from Doolin to the cliffs is possible, many travellers begin at the Visitor Centre. You may then go to Hag's Head (which takes a little longer than an hour) to get rid of people and have a more serene view of the Cliffs of Moher.

The iconic landmark of Stonehenge really speaks for itself. The monument is around 5,000 years old, and to this day, questions remain about how it got there. Was it an ancient civilisation, aliens or something else entirely? Add this to your European bucket list and dive into the mystery for yourself.

Europe undoubtedly has a very rich history, with landmarks telling the story of the past dotted throughout the continent. If you want to dive into the history for yourself, there are few better ways than by visiting one or two of the many, many castles.  
 
If you find yourself in Frankfurt, Germany, we recommend taking a day trip to Eltz Castle to discover one of the most beautiful castles in Europe (seriously, it looks like something from a fairy tale!). 

You'll find plenty of European bucket lists on the internet that have you hitting the slopes in Switzerland, and for good reason. Switzerland, often referred to as the playground of Europe, is home to some of the most beautiful ski slopes and resorts in the world.

The fjords of Norway are easily some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Europe! Home to breath-taking vistas, stunning waterfalls and dramatic mountain ranges, your eyes will be truly spoiled. We definitely recommend considering Norway for your next trip.

If "visit beautiful European cities" is on your bucket list, then you should consider booking a ticket to Copenhagen. The capital city of Denmark is truly stunning with vast canals, colourful houses and a quaint cityscape, it's no wonder it's one of the happiest cities in the world!

Naples, or Napoli as the locals call it, is the largest city in southern Italy. How could you not come here and try a slice of pizza from the birthplace of pizza itself?

The outstanding natural beauty of Scotland's mountainous northwest region cannot be understated. The area is home to rolling hills, magical waterfalls, stunning lakes (some said to be home to Nessie) and Ben Nevis, the United Kingdom's highest peak.