Europe’s 10 Best National Parks to Explore This Summer
Discover Europe’s 10 best national parks, from Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes to Iceland’s Vatnajökull. Explore stunning landscapes, epic hikes, and nature escapes!
There’s something magical about stepping into nature—the crisp mountain air, the sound of rushing waterfalls, the thrill of discovering a hidden trail. Europe is packed with incredible national parks, each with its own unique charm, from towering peaks to turquoise lakes and sun-drenched coastlines. Whether you're looking for adventure or just a peaceful escape, these 10 national parks promise an unforgettable summer. (Image: Canva)
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1. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia – A Fairytale of Waterfalls If there’s one place that feels like it was pulled straight from a dream, it’s Plitvice Lakes. Imagine walking along wooden boardwalks as crystal-clear lakes shimmer beneath you, connected by cascading waterfalls that seem too beautiful to be real. Take your time exploring—every turn reveals another breathtaking view. Just be sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and soak in the tranquility! (Image: Canva)
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2. Sarek National Park, Sweden – The Ultimate Wilderness Escape No roads, no marked trails, no tourist shops—just pure, untouched nature. Sarek is for those who crave real adventure. With towering peaks, rushing rivers, and endless Arctic landscapes, this is where you disconnect from the world and truly get lost in nature (in the best way possible). If you’re an experienced hiker, this is your paradise. (Image: Canva)
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3. Cinque Terre National Park, Italy – Where the Mountains Meet the Sea If you’ve ever seen pictures of Italy’s colorful cliffside villages, chances are they were taken in Cinque Terre. This stunning coastal park offers dreamy hiking trails with vineyard-covered hills on one side and the sparkling Mediterranean on the other. After a scenic trek, reward yourself with fresh seafood and a glass of local wine while watching the sunset—it doesn’t get better than this. (Image: Canva)
4. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland – A Land of Fire and Ice Iceland is like another planet, and Vatnajökull is its most surreal landscape. Walk on ancient glaciers, explore ice caves that glow an eerie blue, and stand in awe of massive waterfalls crashing down volcanic cliffs. One of the highlights? The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs float peacefully out to sea. It’s a place that reminds you just how powerful nature truly is. (Image: Canva)
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5. Écrins National Park, France – A Hiker’s Paradise If the idea of hiking through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers sounds like heaven, Écrins National Park is for you. Nestled in the French Alps, it’s the kind of place where you can breathe in crisp mountain air, dip your feet in glacial streams, and maybe even spot an ibex or two climbing the rocky cliffs. Summer here is simply spectacular. (Image: Canva)
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6. Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park, Spain – Spain’s Hidden Grand Canyon Tucked away in the Pyrenees, this national park feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. Think deep canyons, emerald-green valleys, and waterfalls so powerful you can hear them from miles away. The Ordesa Valley trail is a must—every step reveals jaw-dropping scenery that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. (Image: Canva)
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7. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany – A Fairytale Landscape Don’t be fooled by the name—this park isn’t in Switzerland! Located in eastern Germany, it’s a wonderland of towering sandstone cliffs, hidden caves, and medieval castles perched dramatically on rocky outcrops. The highlight? The Bastei Bridge, where you can stand high above the Elbe River and take in views so beautiful they seem unreal. (Image: Canva)
8. Triglav National Park, Slovenia – A Hidden Alpine Gem Slovenia’s only national park is a treasure trove of natural beauty. The emerald-green Soča River is perfect for kayaking, while the surrounding Julian Alps are ideal for hikers looking for a challenge. If you’re feeling ambitious, climb Mount Triglav—the highest peak in Slovenia. It’s a rite of passage for locals, and the views from the top are worth every step. (Image: Canva)
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9. Picos de Europa National Park, Spain – Wild and Wonderful Dramatic limestone peaks, lush green meadows, and hidden caves make Picos de Europa a dream for adventure seekers. Take the Fuente Dé cable car for a bird’s-eye view of this untamed landscape, then explore on foot, where wild horses roam freely and ancient villages seem frozen in time. Don’t leave without visiting the stunning Covadonga Lakes! (Image: Canva)
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10. Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria – A Scenic Alpine Wonderland This is the kind of place where you roll down your car window and just say, “Wow.” Home to Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner, this park is famous for its jaw-dropping alpine scenery. Drive the legendary Grossglockner High Alpine Road, where every twist and turn reveals a postcard-perfect view. If you love waterfalls, make sure to stop by the Krimml Falls—the highest in Austria! (Image: Canva)
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Time to Pack Your Bags! Europe’s national parks are calling, and whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or just some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth, there’s something here for you. So grab your hiking boots, charge your camera, and get ready for a summer filled with unforgettable moments. Which park will you explore first? (Image: Canva)
Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytelling—both visual and textual—across travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
