Editors and explorers working with National Geographic came up with the planet’s 25 most exciting destinations for 2020 and there are more than 10 located in Europe. The American magazine unveiled the essential and sustainable cities and regions to visit during the next year. National Geographic created the list by answering 5 questions on each destination: why go now, what to know, when to go, how to go. Here is the list of the European destinations among National Geographic’s best trips:
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar, the country’s second largest city after Sarajevo, is mainly known for its old quarter with ancient Turkish houses and old bridge district listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Mostar you will find yourself at a crossroad of different cultures and religions.
Telč, Czechia
With its Italian Renaissance architecture all over the city, Telč is your fairytale escape. In the center you will find one of the most colorful and impressive squares in Europe: The square of Zachariáš of Hradec. It has been part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1992.
National Blue Trail, Hungary
The National Blue Trail is a long-distance hiking trail linking Írott-kő to Hollóháza over 1,128 km. This is trail is considered as the most most beautiful natural and man-made sights of Hungary. Along with the impressive nature you will encounter castles, towers and also three World Heritage Sites of Hungary.
Wales Way, United Kingdom – Wales
The Wales Way gathers three national and iconic routes: The Coastal Way, The Cambrian Way and The North Wales Way. Through these routes you can find the best of what Wales has to offer. Discover the unique coastline with the first route, go trough the mountains with the second one and explore the Welsh history and its natural wonder with the third.
Asturias, Spain
Asturias is a little known region, but nevertheless one of the most beautiful in Spain! With pretty beaches, mountain ranges, parks, Asturias is the place to go if you can’t decide between a stay in the mountains or at the beach. If you are looking for magnificent landscapes and pure nature, Asturias is your dream destination.
Göbekli Tepe, Turkey
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, the site is considered by the scientific community has one of the oldest and largest known temple in history where you can find the first manifestations of a civilization based on social distinctions. This archaeological site will make you feel the pulse of time.
Parma, Italy
In Parma you can find beautiful places with many palaces, museums and religious buildings but also Parma ham, the famous Parmesan cheese as long as many other delicious treats. The Italian city is both a cultural and gastronomic destination. Plus, this year Parma has been named Italian Capital of Culture 2020 so there will be all kinds of events and experiences all year long.
Canary Islands, Spain
Located more than a thousand kilometers south of Spain, bathed in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands and their islands enjoy a spring climate all year round. The long beaches, the amazing nature between sea, forests and volcanoes, it is the perfect destination for a perfect weekend getaway from the city.
Białowieża Forest, Belarus/Poland
Białowieża Forest is the best preserved forest ecosystem and the last low-land deciduous and mixed old-growth forest in Europe. It is home to Europe’s largest bison population but it also shelters bears, koniks (wild horses) and many other species. This site has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1979.
Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a 48 km long road crosses the Austrian Alps linking the provinces of Salzburg and Carinthia. Through this unique road you will enjoy amazing view on the beautiful Austrian nature. The highlight of the show will be the Grossglockner, which culminates at an altitude of 3,789 metres.
If you are interested in the whole list where you will find all destinations, visit nationalgeographic.com.
