A new ranking of Europe's most enchanting destinations includes storybook castles, medieval towns, dramatic islands and ancient forests.
Euronews – Travel website European Best Destinations has revealed its 2026 ranking of Europe’s fairytale destinations, combining expert picks with votes from travellers around the world.
Some of Europe’s most magical destinations look like they’ve been lifted straight from a fairytale – from hilltop castles rising above forests to medieval villages glowing under Christmas lights.
1. Eltz Castle, Germany
2. Mont-Saint-Michel, France
3. Tossa de Mar, Spain
4. The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland
5. Riga, Latvia
6. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
7. Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, Germany
8. Bled, Slovenia
9. Riquewihr, France
10. Craiova, Romania
11. Orcus Mouth, Gardens of Bomarzo, Italy
12. Popeye Village, Mellieha, Malta
13. Prague, Czechia
14. Kaysersberg, France
15. Alcazar Castle, Segovia, Spain
16. Isola Bella, Tropea, Italy
17. Sintra, Portugal
