Europe might be one of the smallest continents in the world but it offers travelers a range of landscapes, cultures, histories, and traditions. There should be no surprise that you can find some of the world’s most amazing World Heritage Sites on the continent.
Millions of travelers come to Europe with hopes of visiting iconic World Heritage Sites such as the Alhambra in Spain or the Monastery of Alcobaca in Portugal. Both and set in wonderfully warm and alluring countries. A World Heritage Site is a landmark or area selected by UNESCO because of its cultural, historical, scientific significance.
Southern Europe has 168 sites, while Western Europe has 131. Meanwhile, Northern Europe counts on 36 and Eastern Europe has a total of 77.
As of 2026, any traveler interested in discovering the World Heritage Sites in Europe will have to apply for an ETIAS permit. ETIAS is not a visa, it is a travel authorization that can be easily obtained by applying online. The ETIAS visa waiver is simply a security measure to improve the region’s safety.
Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
UNESCO selects its World Heritage Sites carefully and each landmark or area must meet specific requirements. A World Heritage Site is worth visiting precisely because the place has been selected due to its contribution to humanity.
It’s nearly impossible to visit all the sites in Europe on a single trip. However, we’ve narrowed the list down to the top 10 most beautiful World Heritage Sites in Europe.
1. Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay, France
This Gothic-style Benedictine nunnery rises up from a rocky islet in the bay of the same name. It was built between the 11th and 16th centuries in honor of the archangel St Michale.
Mont-Saint-Michel and the bay were listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1979. Located 3 hours and 30 minutes from Paris, it attracts people from all over the globe. Many cross the bay on foot to discover its diverse ecosystem.
2. Monastery of Alcobaca, Portugal
Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989, this incredible monastery is a beautiful example of Cistercian architecture. Its medieval buildings are still incredibly well-preserved, some 900 years after they were first built.
The monastery was built around the time Portugal became a nation and the Cistercian Order was founded by Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques. Located in the north of Lisbon, it’s a must-visit if you’ve traveling to the Portuguese capital.
3. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1979, Plitvice Lakes National Park is the most popular tourist attraction in Croatia and extends over nearly 300,000 square kilometers.
More than 1 million visitors travel to this breathtaking National Park yearly and are mesmerized by its multiple waterfalls and 16 interconnected lakes. You can easily reach the park on a day trip from Split, Zadar, or Zagreb.
4. Cinque Terre, Italy
Set in the Italian Riviera and in the Liguria Region of Italy, Cinque Terre is made up of 5 charming and unique villages that extend along the coastline.
Throughout time, the local people have built terraces and homes on the steep cliffs that overlook the sea, making for some spectacular landscapes. The trip is worth it for the incredible local cuisine alone, particularly the famous Anchovies of Monterosso.
5. Alhambra, Spain
Situated in the gorgeous southern city of Granada, the Alhambra is a testament to Spain’s interwoven history with Islamic cultures.
In Arabic, Alhambra literally means the Red Castle, an appropriate name due to the structure’s vibrant red walls. Set atop the al-Sabika hill, this grand palace dominates the city’s skyline and boasts a plethora of stunning, beautifully maintained gardens.
6. Acropolis of Athens
Athens’ Acropolis, located on a rocky ridge above the Greek capital, is hundreds of years old. The ancient citadel is made up of ancient buildings that have incredible historical and architectural significance to this day.
The most famous of these buildings is the Parthenon, a true icon of Greek civilization and a wonder to visit. Other notable structures on the site include the Temple of the Athena Nike and the Erechtheion.
7. Budapest, Hungary
The enitre city of Budapest was named a World Heritage site due to some incredible features including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue.
One of the world’s most outstanding urban landscapes, the city features examples of architecture from an extensive period in history.
8. Historic Center of Krakow, Poland
In the 13th century, Krakow was famed as the largest market in Europe. The Historic Center of Krakow was Poland’s former capital and is home to a great number of historical houses, palaces, and churches with detailed and fascinating interiors.
9. Historic Center Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Historic Center is one of the most beautiful and detailed in all of Europe. The city rose to significance during medieval times, and boasts a unique ensemble of architectural variety and style. This World Heritage Site is made up of the Old Town, the Lesser Town, and New Town.
10. Vatican City
For both Christians and even non-Christians alike, the Vatican can be a very special destination. It welcomes visitors of all religious affiliations – around 19, 000 of them a day.
The Vatican is home to some of the world’s most famous architectural masterpieces which are simply breathtaking to behold, including St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel. There are also several museums, including the official Vatican museum, that are well worth visiting.
