10 Best Places to Visit in Southern Europe

by | Mar 29, 2023 | Destinations, Europe, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Travel Bucket Lists

Southern Europe is a region that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the stunning beaches of the Mediterranean to the rolling hills and charming villages, there are many amazing places to visit in this part of the world. In this blog, we will explore the ten best places to visit in Southern Europe that you must visit.

What are the top places to visit in Southern Europe?

  1. Santorini, Greece
  2. Dubrovnik, Croatia
  3. Positano, Italy
  4. Lisbon, Portugal
  5. Valencia, Spain
  6. Amalfi, Italy
  7. Granada, Spain
  8. Cinque Terre, Italy
  9. Ibiza, Spain
  10. Valletta, Malta

Santorini, Greece

santorini greece best places to visit in southern europe
Copyright: Jonathan Gallegos

The first place to visit in Southern Europe is the beautiful island of Santorini. Santorini is one of the most picturesque islands in Greece. Moreover, it is famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. So, if you are visiting Greece for your next travel bucket list, Santorini must be one of the top choices. 

Furthermore, during your stay in Santorini, yous can explore the island’s many beaches, including Perissa and Kamari. Other than that, you can also take a hike along the scenic Fira-Oia trail. If you are a foodie, you will find Santorini heaven on earth. Why? Santorini is also home to some of the best wineries in Greece, making it the perfect destination for wine lovers.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

dubrovnik croatia best places to visit in southern europe
Copyright: Matthias Mullie

There is one city in Croatia called Dubrovnik that you must go to for your next place to visit in Southern Europe. Moreover, Dubrovnik is a beautiful walled city located on the Adriatic Sea. More interestingly, the walled city is famous for its historic old town, which is home to many ancient churches, palaces, and museums.

During your stay in Dubrovnik, you will be indulged in a lot of tourist attractions. For example, you can take a walk along the city’s ancient walls. Furthermore, the ancient walls offer stunning views of the surrounding sea and mountains. Besides, you can also go to Dubrovnik, for it is a great destination for foodies. You will find many restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties.

Positano, Italy

positano italy best places to visit in southern europe
Copyright: Dimitry B

Who does not know Positano? Positano is a charming village located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. It is known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. No wonder it has made it to the list of best places to visit in Southern Europe. So, for your next visit to Italy, you must go to Positano to find out how charming this village is.

Furthermore, Positano has many tourist attractions that you can enjoy. For instance, you can relax on the beach or explore the village’s many shops and cafes. In addition, you can also take a boat tour to nearby islands. Best of all, Positano is also a great destination for outdoor adventures like hiking. There are many scenic trails winding through the surrounding hills.

Lisbon, Portugal

lisbon portugal best places
Copyright: Julian Dik

The next place to visit in Southern Europe is Lisbon. Lisbon is a vibrant city located on the coast of Portugal. Once you step foot on the land of Lisbon, you will find how charming and vibrant the city is. Moreover, it is famous for its historic architecture, lively music scene, and delicious food. That is why we recommend you visit this capital city of Portugal.

Furthermore, you can also explore the city’s many museums and monuments. There are a bunch of museums and monuments for you to enjoy. Besides you can also take a walk through the picturesque Alfama neighborhood. If you love beaches, Lisbon is also a great destination for beach lovers. It has many beautiful beaches located just a short drive from the city center.

Valencia, Spain

valencia spain best places to visit in southern europe
Copyright: travelnow.or.crylater

Valencia is a beautiful city located on the eastern coast of Spain. This is absolutely one of the best places to visit in Southern Europe, and we recommend you put it on your next bucket list. Why? The city of Valencia is known for its futuristic architecture, stunning beaches, and delicious paella. So, if you are keen on such tourist attractions, you will love spending time in Valencia.

Moreover, there are many other things to do in Valencia that you can do. For example, you can explore the city’s many museums and parks. Alternatively, you can also take a bike ride along the Turia riverbed. Valencia is also popular for its fresh seafood and traditional Valencian dishes. Therefore, Valencia is also a great destination for foodies.

Amalfi, Italy

amalfi italy
Copyright: Tom Podmore

Other than Positano, Italy has another best place to visit in Southern Europe. That place is called Amalfi. Amalfi is a beautiful town located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. Moreover, it is known for its colorful buildings, ancient churches, and stunning views of the sea. With such beauty, no wonder the charming town has been gaining popularity among many tourists worldwide.

Furthermore, there are many things to do in Amalfi that you should not miss out on. You can explore the town’s many shops and cafes. Or, you can also take a boat tour to nearby islands. Besides, if you love outdoor adventures, Amalfi is also a great destination for hikers. Many scenic trails wind through the surrounding hills in Amalfi that await you to explore.

Granada, Spain

granada spain

Another city in Spain that made it to the list of the best places to visit in Southern Europe is Granada. Granada is a historic city located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains in southern Spain. Moreover, the city is known for its stunning Alhambra palace. Specifically, Alhambra palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Spain.

So, with its rich culture and history, you will find many interesting places to roam around in Granada. For example, you can explore the city’s many museums and monuments. Alternatively, you can also take a hike through the surrounding mountains. If you love food tours, Granada is also a great destination. There are many restaurants serving traditional Andalusian cuisine that you can try out on.

Cinque Terre, Italy

cinque terre italy best places to visit in southern europe
Copyright: Mike L

Italy is truly a beautiful country in Southern Europe. Why not? Go check out Cinque Terre, a stunning coastal region located in northern Italy. This region is known for its colorful villages, rocky coastline, and delicious seafood. The view from the place is really stunning and spectacular, and you can take a lot of beautiful pictures there.

Moreover, you can hike along the scenic coastal trail, which winds through the five villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village is really charming. Therefore, Cinque Terre made it to the list of the best places to visit in Southern Europe. Also, do not forget that Cinque Terre is also a great destination for beach lovers. You will love its many beautiful coves and bays located along the coast.

Ibiza, Spain

ibiza spain best places to visit in southern europe
Copyright: Michael Tomlinson

Another popular destination in Southern Europe that gains a lot of attention worldwide is Ibiza. Ibiza is a popular island located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Spain. Moreover, the island is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and stunning scenery. So, if you love to party, you can definitely enjoy spending your vacations here. 

Some places you can explore on this island include nightclubs and bars scattered everywhere. Other than that, you can also relax on one of its many beaches. Besides, if you love outdoor adventures, Ibiza is also a great destination. You will love this place for it has many scenic hiking trails and nature reserves located on the island. No wonder this place is one of the best places to visit in Southern Europe.

Valletta, Malta

valletta malta best places to visit in southern europe
Copyright: Micaela Parente

Malta is also the next destination in Southern Europe that you must visit. Specifically, during your stay in Malta, you must visit Valletta. Valletta is a historic city located on the island of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its stunning architecture, ancient forts, and beautiful harbor. So, if you love architecture, Valletta will make you enchanted instantly. That is why the city has made it to the list of one of the best places to visit in Southern Europe.

Besides, you can also enjoy Malta in many different ways. For example, explore the city’s many museums and churches. Or you can also take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. Best of all, Valletta is also a great destination for foodies. You can find many restaurants serving traditional Maltese cuisine. You must try their food; they are delicious!


In conclusion, there are a lot more of the best places to visit in Southern Europe. The region has diverse and beautiful places, from stunning beaches to historic cities. Whether you are a foodie, a nature lover, or a history buff, you are sure to find something to love in Southern Europe. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this amazing region with JoinMyTrip! Our dedicated TripLeaders will take your adventures in Southern Europe to the next level in our best small group tours. So, book your trips with us now!

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