Europe is known for its mass variety in culture, landscape and cuisine – so there’s no wonder it’s a top spot for holidaymakers from all over the world to explore. From being a hotspot for beach breaks, to being a history buff’s dream, to having some stunning city break destinations, to having some world-class nightlife – it’s the continent that has it all. No matter who you’re travelling with, or what your ideal holiday looks like, you can find your dream getaway in Europe.

There are so many reasons why Europe is the UK’s top pick for sunny escapes year after year. With such a variety of culture across the continent, so much sandy coast, sun-soaked cities and all within a short flight journey, what’s not to love? Families will find plenty of brilliant hotels filled with activities and entertainment for all ages – with kids clubs, waterparks and even spas for parents to take some time to chill. Plus, with All Inclusive buffets, even the fussiest eaters will be happy. If you’re looking for a getaway just you and your partner, Europe is home to some of the most romantic destinations that exist. Paris, Rome and Santorini are just some of the most well-known destinations filled with romance, but it’s hard to find a spot in Europe that isn’t a perfect pick for a dreamy escape with your other half. Think sea-view dining, rooftop bars and beachfront hotels that are ideal for watching the sunset together. If it’s a group holiday you’re after, you and your mates can find some of the hottest party destinations in Europe. Party all night in the legendary Ibiza, explore the clubs of Mykonos, experience the famous Benidorm nights and check out the strip in Playa de las Americas in Tenerife.

If you’re a fan of warm calm waters, soft golden sands and a dazzling clear blue sky, then you’re in luck. The beaches in Europe are mainly soft, golden, sweeping, sandy shores – the ideal spot for a relaxing day under the sun. If you want a unique day at the seaside, there are also a handful of volcanic black sandy beaches across Europe, including the Canaries, the Azores and Santorini. As well as endless beautiful beaches to choose from, there are some of the most amazing snorkelling spots around the Mediterranean that cannot be missed. The south of Malta, around Gozo, the Italian island of Sardinia, Paphos in Cyprus and Elafonissi in Crete are just some of the continent’s best snorkelling sites with crystal-clear waters and so much to discover under the surface.

Europe is home to some of the most delicious cuisine in the world. The variety of tastes and textures across the continent is unbelievable but oh-so-delicious. Escape to Italy to indulge in perfect pizza, fine pasta, rich risotto and finish with a few scoops of your favourite flavour of gelato. Over in Spain you’ll find smaller dishes, but with tons of flavour. Go to the local bar or tapas restaurant to sample small plates of delicious meats, roasted vegetables, potatoes, seafood and more. Some of the typical tapas dishes include patatas bravas, calamari, ham or cheese croquettes, Spanish omelettes and chorizo. If you’d prefer to have just one dish in a larger size, paella is Valencian speciality combining rice, meat, seafood and a huge amount of tastiness. This dish may have made its way around the globe, but it’s still at its best in Spain. Further east in Greece, you’ll be met with kebabs, Greek salad, tzatziki and stuffed pepper and vine leaves. Mousakka is a typical hearty Greek dish, made of minced beef, potatoes, courgettes and aubergine in a bake. One dish not to miss when in Greece is gyros, a perfect snack or a delicious meal that will fill you up and give you the combination of tastes and textures that you’ve been looking for. Gyros are pitta wraps with meat, onions, lettuce, tomato, chips and tzatziki – a combination you may never have thought of, but definitely one you won’t forget. 

From seeing La Sagrada Familia in sunny Barcelona, to climbing Mount Teide in Tenerife, to exploring the white washed streets of Santorini – there’s so much to discover in Europe. History buffs can soak up the sun whilst taking in beautiful ancient ruins in Greek destinations such as Athens, Rhodes and the Peloponnese. If you prefer seeing the historic architecture in cities, try Barcelona, Murcia and Valencia in Spain. Love to be at one with nature? The Canary Islands have so many hiking trails to choose from, as well as Gozo in Malta and the many different islands of The Azores.

Those with little ones will need to keep them entertained too, which is perfect in Europe as you’re sure to find destinations filled with waterparks, aquariums and even theme parks to keep the whole family smiling throughout their holiday. The Land of Legends in Belek, Turkey is an amazing modern theme park with rollercoasters, exciting water slides and swimming pools, as well as a great range of shops and restaurants – a fantastic place that takes more than one day to truly explore! If you’re looking for the ultimate waterpark, Siam Park in Tenerife has held the title of the number one water park in the world for multiple years.

If you’re travelling with mates and seeking somewhere with lively days and a buzzing nightlife, there are plenty of European destinations to choose from. You can find your perfect party place in Ibiza, Magaluf, Palma de Mallorca, Playa de las Americas, Benidorm, Madrid and Lloret de Mar – and that’s just Spain! You can also find amazing atmospheres in Mykonos (Greece), Marmaris (Turkey), Corfu, Zante (Greece), Ayia Napa (Cyprus) and Malia (Crete).

Across the continent, different countries have their different languages, religions, traditions, laws and currency (although most use the Euro there are still some that don’t). Due to this, it’s advised to do your research before you go, find out the need to know information as well as some dos and don’ts for places that might have stricter rules or traditions than others.