15 Must-Visit Islands in Europe

Have you ever been to Europe? From sprawling castles to white sand seashores, the continent provides so many superb locations to go to. Despite being the second-smallest continent of the seven, a go to to this seemingly magical land will depart you in awe of each nature and man-made creations. Whether you’re a historical past buff or simply need to chill out within the solar, no less than one in every of these spectacular must-visit islands in Europe is the one for you! With 4 islands on the record, Greece takes the cake on the subject of islands you should go to. Spain follows intently at second place with three islands on the record.

Europeans belong to 87 distinct ethnic teams and 33 of them rein majority of their nation of origin. The individuals of Europe communicate as many as 200 completely different languages, although solely 24 are acknowledged as official. Interestingly, the most typical language spoken in Europe is Russian. According to The Network of European Museum Organizations, greater than 15,000 museums exist on the continent, bringing residents and guests nearer to the historical past of the gorgeous locations to discover.

In no explicit order, let’s take a digital island-hopping journey round the most effective must-visit islands in Europe! Make certain to learn to the top to seek out out which islands we’d most want to go to.

#1 Capri: Italy’s Must-Visit Island in Europe With the Best Sights to See

One of essentially the most well-known islands in Italy, Capri, combines rugged terrain alongside attractive mansions and upscale resorts. To say this island is heaven for the wealthy could be an understatement. Expensive yachts dot the shoreline in the course of the summer time and houses promote for upwards of three million {dollars}!

If this island makes it onto your record of stops to make in Europe, you should completely see the Blue Grotto. This underground cave is crammed with water that seems electrical blue because of daylight that shines on it by means of an underwater cave.

Visitors to Capri additionally take pleasure in looking for one-of-a-kind handmade items, particularly these fabricated from coveted Italian leather-based. Tourists can also’t miss visiting the central sq., Piazza Umberto I (or Piazzetta to the remainder of the world), which is the center of the island’s social life.

Animals of Capri

This must-visit island in Europe can be home to some distinctive vegetation and animals. The most particular species discovered right here is the blue lizard of Capri or “lucertola azzurra,” in Italian. The scientific identify is Podarcis siculus coeruleus.

In reality, the lizard is so particular, it seems on the flag of Capri. This blue lizard is a shade morph of the Italian wall lizard and options vibrant blue coloration. The blue selection is discovered solely on the prime of one of many three Faraglioni of Capri. These are the massive rock stacks jutting from the ocean simply off the island’s edge. These Faraglioni will not be distinctive to Capri however are discovered all through the Mediterranean Sea. The distinctive lizards had been found by one of many sailors or fisherman who climbed the Scopolo rock stack together with his naked palms. The different rock stacks are named Saetta, Stella, and Monacone.

The shade change seen in these lizards represents a primary instance of island syndrome (when a species develops completely different appearances or evolves in another way from its counterparts on separate islands). The phenomenon can be seen in panther chameleons discovered in numerous components of Madagascar.

#2 Santorini: A Grecian Group of 5 Must-Visit Islands in Europe

Santorini, Greece evokes awe from the ocean wanting upon it and from the island searching. Once the remnants of an island destroyed by one of many largest volcanic eruptions in historical past (the Minoan eruption), Santorini now welcomes over 2 hundreds of thousands vacationers annually. Santorini features its fame from the lengthy volcanic seashores full of lovely lava rocks. Made up of 5 lovely islands, solely two of them are inhabited: Santorini and Therasia. The uninhabited islands are Nea Kameni, Palaia Kameni, Aspronisi and Christiana.

Animals of Santorini

Unlike lots of our must-visit islands in Europe, Santorini lacks all kinds of pure wildlife (vegetation and animals). This is presumably because of the volcanic exercise within the area. Olive vineyards are frequent right here, but when there are endemic creatures right here, they haven’t been found but. Endemic refers to creatures and vegetation which reside or develop solely within the area mentioned. For occasion, Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes are endemic to the Southeastern United States. They are discovered naturally wherever else.

#3 Malta: The Country of seven Must-Visit Islands in Europe

Comprised of seven lovely islands, Malta makes the highest of many bucket lists for journey. The nation of Malta contains the inhabited islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino together with the uninhabited islands of Filfla, Cominotto, Manoel, and Selmunett. Malta gained its fame for its lovely landscapes utilized in many Hollywood productions such because the very well-known present, Game of Thrones. Some individuals go to the nation of islands simply due to this reality. Others come to view the Megalithic Temples of Malta. The seven temples discovered on the islands of Malta and Gozo characteristic large Bronze Age buildings and a glance into humanity’s prehistoric previous.

Animals of Malta

Famous for the Maltese canine breed, Malta is home to some distinctive and great wild creatures, too. In reality, 4 distinctive species of bats name the islands home. Vagrant hedgehogs (Erinaceus algirus) additionally reside within the space together with the nation’s nationwide chook, the blue rock thrush (Monticola solitarius). Animals lovers could have a blast in Malta seeing all of the particular creatures that reside there!

#4 Mykonos: The Grecian Island with Must-See Animals in Europe

If you’re on the lookout for a spot to celebration in the summertime, Mykonos provides a full of life environment with lovely views. Many bars and dance golf equipment characteristic world-renowned DJs and blast music throughout the seashores properly into the night time.

If events aren’t your jam, some of the iconic options of this island are the Sixteenth-century windmills that also stand. The lovely seashores and access to historic structure assist to convey over 500,000 vacationers to Mykonos annually.

Animals of Mykonos

Besides a mess of avenue cats and iconic pelicans (thought of the mascots of the island), Mykonos is home to some unimaginable distinctive creatures. One of those is the agama stellios lizard. They go by many names together with stellagama, Ludakia stellio, or starred agma. Stellagama stellio are a species of lizard just like iguanas however smaller. They look sort of like bearded dragons however have yellow heads and vibrant blue markings. These lizards are endemic to Mykonos.

#5 Madeira: Portugal’s Top Must-Visit Island in Europe

With dramatic cliffs and pleasant locals, Madeira is unquestionably a must-visit island in Europe. Located in Portugal, the four-island archipelago features a lot of its fame from the wine produced right here with the identical identify. Not solely that, however the capital, Funchal has beautiful botanic gardens and an enormous harbor. The capital additionally shows a world-renowned New Year’s fireworks present annually. Madeira can be well-known for its scrumptious number of native delicacies solely discovered there. One of many attention-grabbing dishes served there’s espada com banana (black scabbardfish with banana).

Animals of Madeira

Of the huge array of distinctive animals, it appears the endemic costal birds are the species that maintain a particular place within the hearts of the locals. Alec Zino, a neighborhood ornithologist (a scientist who specializes within the research of birds), rediscovered a particularly uncommon chook in Madeira in 1969.

Once considered extinct, the freira-da-Madeira (or Zino’s Petrel), was an thrilling discover! Zino’s observations together with DNA evaluation revealed that the chook did belong to a definite species. These little seabirds solely lay one egg per yr, contributing to their rarity. Scientists estimate solely 40 breeding pairs exist in the present day. They suspect each the male and the feminine stay trustworthy to their associate for all times. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as endangered. The same chook native to the realm, the Desertas petrel, additionally finds itself on the IUCN record as weak. Locals to the realm take nice care in not disturbing the birds and defending them from careless vacationers.

#6 Corsica: France’s Mountainous Must-Visit Island in Europe

Want to expertise difficult hikes with superb views? Corsica, France is the must-visit island in Europe for you! The fourth-largest island within the Mediterranean, Corsica exhibits guests her exceptional historical past and pure magnificence at each flip. Did that each Napolean Boneparte and Pasquale Paoli had been born in Corsica? Both of those influential historic figures hailed from the island. Boneparte performed a key function within the French Revolution and dominated France for over a decade. Meanwhile, Paoli freed the Corsicans from the rule of the Republic of Genoa. The Corsican individuals are very happy with their historical past and tradition. They are additionally pleasant and free spirited, welcoming visitors to their land.

Animals of Corsica

Corsica celebrates many animals as uniquely Corsican from their donkeys and horses to dogs and wildcats. Perhaps most fun is the Corsican cat-fox (or Corsican wildcat) which was confirmed to be a novel species in 2023. The wildcat is a part of the shepherds mythology and tales of them have been handed down from technology to technology. More analysis is being carried out, however the cats are actually a separate species opposite to earlier ideas that thought of them a gaggle of home cats affected by island syndrome.

#7 Azores: Portugal’s 9 Island Paradise and Must-Visit Islands in Europe

Want to keep away from crowds of vacationers? Portugal’s hidden gem is the place for you! With 9 completely different islands to discover, the adventures available for you in Azores are immeasurable. Corvo, Faial, Flores, Graciosa, Pico, Santa Maria, São Jorge, São Miguel, and Terceira are all accessible. You may even take a cruise that features a go to to every. This volcanic area has black sand seashores and heat emanating from inside that you simply simply can’t get wherever else.

Animals of Azores

According to Azores Wildlife’s web site, the realm’s particular species are all birds. Two of those species are endemic to the area, whereas others are subspecies affected by island syndrome. The Azores bullfinch (Pyrrhula murina) and Monteiro’s storm petrel (Oceanodroma monteiroi) are the 2 distinctive species discovered on the island. This must-visit island in Europe is a superb place for chook watchers!

#8 Ibiza: Spain’s Party-Capital and Must-Visit Island in Europe

Known for its party-rich seashores, Ibiza is likely one of the most well-known islands in all of Europe. Extremely well-known for its fabulous dance events full with digital dance music, this island attracts hundreds of thousands of vacationers annually. Ibiza can be a UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) world heritage website. The island’s authorities is working towards selling extra family-oriented tourism. Ibiza is filled with wealthy historical past and delightful locations to see. Ibiza Old Town is the proper place to discover and study instances previous within the space. There are additionally many distinctive boutiques for buying.

Animals of Ibiza

Several attention-grabbing animals hail from Ibiza, together with the Ibizan Hound. These lovely crimson and white sighthounds originated on the island from the mix of assorted different breeds. The function of this breed is for searching rabbits and different small recreation. Since they’re extremely quick and athletic, they’re nice hunters for equally quick prey. Although individuals within the United States do generally use them for lure racing and searching, the breed is sort of uncommon and few are seen outdoors the island.

Another neat creature that lives in Ibiza, although not completely there, is the genet. This cat-like creature is definitely a member of the Viverridae household. With its lovely noticed coat, some prize it for its pelt. However, only some varieties all over the world discover themselves on the IUCN crimson record. Some individuals even maintain genets as pets!

#9 Mallorca: Spain’s Most Historic Must-Visit Island in Europe

One of Spain’s most historic islands, Mallorcan guests discover historic stone villages and delightful cathedrals to discover. Guided excursions provide insights into the historical past of the cities and prehistoric life there round 2500-2300 BC. Those not too taken with historical past classes ought to go to the capitol, Palma, and expertise the artwork galleries and music festivals. Visitors can even take part in snorkeling and a bustling nightlife.

Animals of Mallorca

Mallorca isn’t home to an enormous variety of distinctive animals. Aside from rabbits, lizards, and snakes, just one species actually stood out to us: the pine procession moth. The caterpillar stage of those lovely moths make the record of the highest seven caterpillars you must by no means contact! Numbering within the lots of alongside the mountaineering trails of Mallorca, brushing in opposition to one in every of these caterpillars will depart your pores and skin embedded with tremendous hairs carrying their venom. The venom causes extreme allergic reactions in some individuals. Others solely expertise a rash and burning, itchy pores and skin.

#10 Sardinia: Italy’s Beach Lover’s Must-Visit Island in Europe

With over 1,200 miles of seashore to laze about on, Sardinia is the beach-lovers paradise of Italy. The inside of the island is fantastically mountainous, excellent for guests who take pleasure in nature hikes. Not solely that, however Sardinia is likely one of the few locations with nuraghi. These mysterious Bronze Age stone ruins formed like beehives intrigue vacationers and residents alike. Crystal-clear blue waters aren’t the one factor beckoning individuals to this lovely island, the individuals listed here are pleasant and welcoming. The many festivals they host honor their traditions and rejoice the island they name home.

Animals of Sardinia

A bird-watching paradise, Sardinia boasts many lovely birds to see. Most excitingly, pink flamingos! That’s not the one superb creature discovered right here. In reality, Sardinia is the one place on Earth with Giara horses. These small however sturdy wild horses used to roam your complete island however at the moment are restricted to only a small, protected space. Some locals nonetheless use these horses for farming although most of them are wild. Others have cross-bred the endemic horse breed with Arabian horses to create a tricky, sporty combine.

#11 Rhodes: Greece’s History Lover’s Must-Visit Island in Europe

In the previous, Rhodes was recognized for its Colossus of Rhodes. This was a fully large statue stated to have straddled the port of entry into the island. The statue is likely one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Medieval Old Town of Rhodes City is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, Rhodes it’s a highly regarded vacationer spot and must-visit island in Europe. Visitors additionally like to see the Acropolis of Lindos which towers over the trendy day metropolis of Lindos and comprises the Temple of Athena Lindia. Rich historical past apart, Rhodes is totally lovely. Tourists take pleasure in studying to surf within the lovely water and visiting the thermal springs.

Animals of Rhodes

Like others on our record, Rhodes has a couple of animals distinctive to its land. Namely, the Rhodian pony. These miniature horse are endemic to the island and are threatened with extinction. Efforts to save lots of the species started in 2001 by the Phaethon Association. The Rhodian ponies are one of many two smallest horses on the earth together with their cousins, Skyros ponies. A Greek information outlet reported solely 11 Rhodian ponies left in existence as of November 2022. In March 2023, Phaethon posted to their Facebook that solely eight of the ponies remained. Their hope is to breed the miniature horse and improve the inhabitants.

#12 Corfu: Greece’s Largest Must-Visit Island in Europe

Corfu is one in every of Greece’s largest islands and 1000’s of holiday makers come right here annually. They come to see the gorgeous structure, a few of which nonetheless stands from the Venetian period. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Corfu’s Old Town options the Spianada sq. the place individuals can pattern some scrumptious Greek and Venetian dishes. Beautiful seashores and beautiful greenery earn this island the nickname Emerald Isle. It is the greenest of all of the Grecian islands.

Animals of Corfu

Though this island has many great creatures, few of them are distinctive to the island itself. Hedgehogs, martens, bats, and moles all make the island their home. The most notable animal we found was the beech marten (or stone marten). Martens reside all through a lot of Europe and Central Asia. This small weasel-like creature, no larger than a typical home cat, will get itself in hassle sneaking into hen coops and taking its decide of the birds for dinner. They’re reasonably cute, however don’t be fooled. These martens are fierce and elusive predators.

#13 Sicily: Italy’s World Heritage Capital and Must-Visit Island in Europe

Sicily is legendary for its cathedrals, vineyards, and seashores. It additionally boasts fame for its superb structure together with main landmarks such because the Palermo Opera House and the Valley of the Temples. Sicily comprises seven of the 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Italy! From the water wanting in, Sicily clearly seems as a land stuffed with wealthy and delightful architectural and creative design. People right here communicate Sicilian as a substitute of Italian. Sicilians are recognized for his or her heat and friendliness. Locals usually rejoice within the likelihood to share their meals and tradition with guests. Much of the island is hills, so those that love mountaineering will take pleasure in Sicily, too!

Animals of Sicily

Many of the animals present in Sicily enterprise there throughout migration. That signifies that what animals you’ll see will rely upon once you go to. However, they do have a particular tiny creature all their very own. The Sicilian shrew is a small, nocturnal mammal. They will not be labeled as rodents regardless of wanting just like a mouse. Unlike mice, they’re insectivores. Not a lot seems to be recognized in regards to the little creatures or their habits apart from our information that they’re endemic to Sicily. They are darkish grey on prime with a white stomach. Their lengthy noses give them a superb sense of scent. Despite their presence in Sicily, you’re impossible to see one because of their shy habits and tendency to late-night exercise.

#14 Hvar: Croatia’s Party Lover’s Must-Visit Island in Europe

Another prime celebration vacation spot on our record, Hvar, Croatia competes with Ibiza within the lavish celebrations class. Yacht events and dancing is likely to be your drawn to the island, however its wealthy and attention-grabbing historical past is value noting. Various civilizations beforehand inhabited the island together with the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Austrians. Visitors additionally admire the well-preserved medieval structure, together with the Hvar Fortress. Not solely that, however the city of Stari Grad is likely one of the oldest settlements in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Animals of Hvar

Yet one other island with no particularly endemic creatures, Hvar nonetheless prospers with many lovely animals to see. From migrating birds to a number of species of beautiful reptiles, the island has a little bit of every little thing. One of the extra attention-grabbing birds residing right here is the Eurasian eagle-owl. These large owls weigh as much as 10 kilos with a wingspan only a bit shorter than 2 ft. These owls reside on the island year-round.

#15 Tenerife: Spain’s Top Must-Visit Island in Europe for Stargazing

We could properly have saved the most effective for final! With lovely seashores and a busy nightlife, Tenerife, Spain is a dream of an island. However, if you happen to’re the stargazing kind, this island shares within the title for the most effective locations to see the celebs in all of Europe. The island additionally hosts the fifth-largest cave fashioned by lava on the earth. Named the Wind Cave, this lovely pure surprise is a can’t-miss journey in Tenerife. To prime all of it off, the island has a number of Michelin Star eating places to select from for guests looking for superb meals. It appears Tenerife has all of it from lovely sights and breathtaking meals to unimaginable actions and distinctive animals!

Animals of Tenerife

Tenerife and the Canary Islands as an entire have a number of thrilling native creatures. On this island you’ll expertise lovely birds, distinctive reptiles, and even particular fish! Aside from the endemic Canary chook, named for the bigger group of islands the place it got here from, one explicit chook caught our eye. Generally, a pigeon isn’t a lot to jot down home about, however the laurel pigeon is totally beautiful! This chook’s darkish purple-gray feather shine within the daylight giving it a purple glow. The laurel pigeon is one in every of two endemic pigeon species on the Canary Islands. Its smaller cousin, the Bolle’s pigeon, options related coloration. The essential distinction within the two is the colour of the tail feathers. Laurels have white tail feathers white Bolle’s have darkish ones.

Summary of the 15 Must-Visit Islands in Europe

Here’s a rundown of our prime 15 must-visit islands in Europe. We included a short column stating whether or not the island has distinctive endemic animals that guests ought to attempt to see or not. Remember, endemic means the animals are solely present in that place. Not all our islands on the record have endemic creatures, however all of them have lovely vegetation and animals to see!

Final Thoughts on the 15 Must-Visit Islands in Europe

After taking this unimaginable, digital island-hopping journey round Europe, we’ve chosen the islands we’d most like to go to! Our prime picks are Corsica, Tenerife, and Capri. Which must-visit island calls to you?