Only after you have seen much of the world will you discover how unique Europe really is. The history of many European countries goes back so far that this continent is full of culture, history, and nature. Although many European countries are pretty small – compared to the rest of the world – each country has its own identity. A completely different landscape and its own culture.

We skipped cities like Berlin, Barcelona, Rome and Paris in this list. Not because they don’t deserve a spot on a bucket list – they certainly do – but because you know them and most likely have already seen them. Or at least plan to do so. These are real additions to your wish list of destinations. Let’s go!

Iceland – Geysers

Geysers are a remarkable phenomenon. Hot water and steam bubble out of the ground as if from nowhere. It’s a volcanic phenomenon that can only be seen in specific places on Earth: Earth plates push over each other. Like in Iceland, for example. The Strokkur geyser is especially popular because it is one of the few geysers in the world that spews water and steam upward in a steady rhythm (every few minutes). If you love this natural phenomenon, then also go to Yellowstone National Park in the United States. There you will find many more of these types of geysers.

Czech Republic – Bohemian Paradise

The Czech Republic’s Bohemian nature parks are a paradise for hikers and climbers. In the north of the Czech Republic, about 100 kilometres above Prague, are the famous nature parks Bohemian Switzerland and Bohemian Paradise. These parks are also called the “rock cities” because they consist of beautiful sandstone rocks. Bohemian Paradise is an absolute must-see, with Hruboskalsko as the highlight: a rock formation about fifty meters high. There you will also find the fourteenth-century castle Hrubá Skála – a charming sight. If you have good legs, it is recommended to hike to Hrubá Skála as well. On the terrace, you can enjoy a Czech goulash and enjoy the view.

Croatia – Rab

There are more than a thousand islands with picturesque villages on the coast of Croatia in the middle of an azure sea. The island of Rab, called “the happy island” by the Romans centuries ago, is one of the most beautiful and should be on your bucket list for Europe. It is also one of the few islands in the Adriatic with sandy beaches, and in some places, you would think you were on a tropical island. You’ll cruise among palm and olive trees and the crystal clear sea that invites you to float for hours. This is the optimal island life!

Slovenia – Bled

Although Slovenia is a small country, you will find great nature here. Stalactite caves, gigantic waterfalls and vast vineyards. The Julian Alps make Slovenia exceptionally beautiful and a country you should visit. Then don’t skip Lake Bled. In the middle of the lake is a forested island with a charming church on top. You can go there by boat. Surrounded by the beautiful green environment of forests and rocks, you will feel the romance and immediately understand why so many couples get married here.

Sweden – Lapland

The north of Sweden is part of the Lapland region, the land of the Sami and the reindeer. This region also stretches across northern Finland and Norway but put the Swedish part on your bucket list. It is better to go there in winter: Swedish Lapland is the place for dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing and – hopefully – seeing the Northern Lights. Swedish Lapland is a unique, unspoiled piece of nature where you can stay in an ice hotel or igloo. For spectacular winter vacation, you have to go here sometime.

Have you ever been to any of these places? Share your experience with us in the comments below!