Europe is bursting with natural beauty, from rugged coastlines and soaring mountains to serene lakes and dense forests. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good view, we've handpicked the 15 best national parks in Europe that every nature lover has to visit.

Plan Your Visit To Europe's Best National Parks

a national park in spain - one of europe's best national parks
How many national parks are there in Europe?
There are over 500 national parks spread across Europe, each offering unique natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.

What is the largest national park in Europe?
Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland is the largest, covering around 14,141 square kilometres (5,460 square miles).

What’s the most famous national park in Europe?
Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is one of the most famous, known for its stunning cascades of lakes and waterfalls.

What’s Europe’s most unknown national park?
Sarek National Park in Sweden is one of the least known, offering untouched wilderness and challenging treks for adventurers.

Are Europe’s national parks free to visit?
Many national parks in Europe are free to enter, but some may charge for specific activities, guided tours, or parking.

What is the most visited national park in Europe?
The Lake District National Park in England is one of the most visited, attracting millions of visitors each year with its beautiful lakes and charming villages.

The 15 Best National Parks in Europe

1. Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria

austria national park is one of europe's best national parks
Country: Austria
Nearest Airport: Salzburg Airport (SZG)
How to Get There: From Salzburg, drive for about 1.5 hours to Bruck in Salzburgerland, the gateway to the park.

Discover the Majesty of Hohe Tauern

Capped off by the 3,798-metre (12,461-foot) Grossglockner, Austria’s highest peak, Hohe Tauern National Park sprawls across 1,856 square kilometres (717 square miles) of pure alpine splendor. This park is the epitome of alpine beauty, with dramatic mountain landscapes, vast glaciers, and the country’s highest waterfall.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Dramatic Peaks & Glaciers: Home to the Pasterze Glacier, the longest glacier in the Eastern Alps.
  • Stunning Waterfalls: The Krimmler Wasserfälle plunges 380 metres (1,247 feet) in a misty, rainbow-kissed spectacle.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Look out for marmots, chamois, ibex, and golden eagles. Join a ranger tour or hike the trails for the best wildlife encounters.
  • Scenic Drives: Experience the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, a thrilling 48-kilometre (30-mile) route with stunning views and hairpin bends.

Don’t Miss: Drive the Grossglockner High Alpine Road from Bruck to Heiligenblut. It’s a 48 km (30 miles) journey of breathtaking views and heart-stopping curves!

2. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

one of the best national parks in europe is in croatia
Country: Croatia
Nearest Airport: Zagreb Airport (ZAG)
How to Get There: From Zagreb, take a direct bus to the park, which takes about 2.5 hours.

Explore the Beauty of Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a true natural wonder with its cascading lakes and lush forests. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers an enchanting experience with its serene waters and vibrant landscapes.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Cascading Lakes: Discover 16 crystal-clear lakes connected by stunning waterfalls.
  • Scenic Walkways: Traverse wooden boardwalks and trails through lush greenery and beside the tranquil waters.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Look for deer, bears, and a variety of bird species in the park’s rich ecosystems.

Don’t Miss: Walk the scenic trails and marvel at the beautiful lakes and waterfalls, including the impressive Veliki Slap waterfall.

3. Sarek National Park, Sweden

Country: Sweden
Nearest Airport: Kiruna Airport (KRN)
How to Get There: From Kiruna, drive or take a bus to the park’s entrance at Ritsem, approximately 5 hours.

Experience Wilderness at Sarek National Park

For those seeking unspoiled wilderness, Sarek National Park is the ultimate destination. Known for its dramatic landscapes and remote beauty, it offers a true escape into nature.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Untamed Wilderness: Discover rugged mountains, vast glaciers, and deep valleys.
  • Challenging Hikes: Explore demanding trails with stunning vistas and pristine environments.
  • Wildlife Watching: Spot Arctic wildlife like reindeer and golden eagles.

Don’t Miss: Hike to the Sarek Glacier or take a multi-day trek through this remote and wild landscape.

4. Cinque Terre National Park, Italy

Cinque Terre National Park one of europe's best national parks
Country: Italy
Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport (PSA)
How to Get There: From Pisa, take a train to La Spezia and then switch to a local train connecting the five villages.

Discover the Charm of Cinque Terre

Another one of the best national parks in Europe is the Cinque Terre National Park, a coastal gem on the Italian Riviera. With its colourful villages and stunning sea views, it’s a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Picturesque Villages: Explore five charming villages perched on cliffs above the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Scenic Hiking Trails: Hike the Sentiero Azzurro trail for breathtaking coastal views.
  • Culinary Delights: Enjoy delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood in the quaint villages.

Don’t Miss: Hike the Sentiero Azzurro for amazing views and a unique way to see all five villages.

5. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

one of the best national parks in iceland
Country: Iceland
Nearest Airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
How to Get There: Drive east along Route 1 for about 4 hours from Keflavík to the park’s visitor centre.

Marvel at the Wonders of Vatnajökull National Park

From the sunny shores of Italy to the chilly landscapes of Iceland, our next Europe national park, Vatnajökull National Park, offers a spectacular range of landscapes, from glaciers to volcanoes. It’s a playground for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Glacial Landscapes: Explore the Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest glacier.
  • Stunning Waterfalls: Visit Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls.
  • Unique Geological Features: Discover ice caves, volcanic landscapes, and expansive glacier lagoons.

Don’t Miss: Explore the Vatnajökull Glacier and take a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon.

6. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain

Country: Spain
Nearest Airport: Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ)
How to Get There: Drive for approximately 2 hours from Zaragoza to the park entrance at Torla.

Discover the Beauty of Ordesa y Monte Perdido

Located in the Spanish Pyrenees, Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Europe.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Stunning Canyons: Explore the deep canyons and towering cliffs of Ordesa Valley.
  • Scenic Hikes: Hike trails with panoramic views and diverse landscapes.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Spot species like the Pyrenean chamois and golden eagles.

Don’t Miss: Hike the Ordesa Valley for breathtaking views and unforgettable alpine scenery.

7. Swiss National Park, Switzerland

one of europe's best national parks in switzerland
Country: Switzerland
Nearest Airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH)
How to Get There: Take a train from Zurich to Zernez, then a short bus ride to the park’s visitor centre.

Explore the Alpine Beauty of Swiss National Park

Switzerland’s only national park, Swiss National Park offers pristine landscapes and a chance to see Alpine wildlife in its natural habitat.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Alpine Wilderness: Enjoy unspoiled Alpine scenery with well-preserved ecosystems.
  • Diverse Wildlife: Spot animals like ibex, chamois, and marmots.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore scenic trails with breathtaking views of the Engadine Valley.

Don’t Miss: Take a hike through the park’s well-marked trails for stunning Alpine vistas and wildlife sightings.

8. Écrins National Park, France

one of the best national parks in france
Country: France
Nearest Airport: Grenoble-Isère Airport (GIF)
How to Get There: A 1.5-hour drive from Grenoble will get you to the park’s main access points.

Discover the Alpine Majesty of Écrins National Park

Next on our list of the best national parks in Europe is the Écrins National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts that offers spectacular Alpine landscapes and a range of activities for all levels.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Alpine Peaks: Admire the towering peaks and expansive glaciers of the French Alps.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, climbing, and winter sports in a stunning natural setting.
  • Scenic Beauty: Take in the picturesque Alpine meadows and pristine lakes.

Don’t Miss: Explore the park’s high-altitude trails and enjoy the incredible views of the Écrins massif.

9. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany

Saxon Switzerland National Park is one of the best national parks in europe
Country: Germany
Nearest Airport: Dresden Airport (DRS)
How to Get There: A 1-hour drive or train ride from Dresden will bring you to the park’s main visitor centre.

Experience the Unique Landscapes of Saxon Switzerland National Park

Despite its name, Saxon Switzerland National Park is a German gem known for its unique sandstone rock formations and dense forests.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Unique Rock Formations: Explore the striking sandstone formations and deep valleys.
  • Climbing Opportunities: Enjoy world-class rock climbing and challenging hikes.
  • Scenic Trails: Wander through lush forests and along scenic river valleys.

Don’t Miss: Hike to the Bastei Bridge for spectacular views of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

10. Lake District National Park, England

Country: England
Nearest Airport: Manchester Airport (MAN)
How to Get There: From Manchester, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive or train ride to the Lake District.

Discover the Tranquility of the Lake District National Park

The Lake District National Park offers picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and charming villages, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Scenic Lakes: Enjoy beautiful lakes like Windermere and Ullswater.
  • Walking Trails: Explore a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
  • Charming Villages: Visit quaint villages such as Keswick and Ambleside.

Don’t Miss: Take a boat ride on Lake Windermere for a relaxing and scenic experience.

11. Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Triglav National Park is one of the best national parks in europe
Country: Slovenia
Nearest Airport: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
How to Get There: A 1.5-hour drive from Ljubljana will take you to the park’s main entry points.

Experience the Natural Beauty of Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s premier national park, featuring stunning Alpine landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Majestic Peaks: Hike up Mount Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Explore beautiful valleys, alpine meadows, and clear lakes.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, climbing, and river activities.

Don’t Miss: Hike to the summit of Mount Triglav for panoramic views of the Julian Alps.

12. Białowieża Forest, Poland/Belarus

Country: Poland/Belarus
Nearest Airport: Białystok Airport (for Poland) / Minsk International Airport (MSQ) (for Belarus)
How to Get There: From Białystok, drive for about 1.5 hours to the Polish side. From Minsk, take a train or bus to Brest and then travel to the forest.

Discover the Ancient Białowieża Forest

One of Europe’s last primeval forests, Białowieża Forest offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient woodlands and see rare wildlife.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Ancient Woodlands: Wander through Europe’s last remaining primeval forest.
  • European Bison: Spot the majestic European bison in their natural habitat.
  • Tranquil Trails: Enjoy peaceful walks and forest exploration.

Don’t Miss: Visit the Bison Reserve and take a guided tour through the ancient forest.

13. Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

Gran Paradiso National Park one of europe's best national parks
Country: Italy
Nearest Airport: Turin Airport (TRN)
How to Get There: A 1.5-hour drive from Turin will take you to the park’s entrances in the Valle d’Aosta region.

Explore the Beauty of Gran Paradiso National Park

Gran Paradiso National Park is Italy’s oldest national park and offers a stunning mix of Alpine landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Alpine Scenery: Enjoy beautiful mountain views and glacier landscapes.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Look for the elusive Alpine ibex and other wildlife.
  • Outdoor Activities: Hike, climb, and explore the park’s stunning natural features.

Don’t Miss: Hike the trails around the Gran Paradiso peak for fantastic views and wildlife sightings.

14. Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

one of the best national parks in europe in montenegro
Country: Montenegro
Nearest Airport: Podgorica Airport (TGD)
How to Get There: From Podgorica, it’s a 2-hour drive to the park’s main access points.

Discover the Wonders of Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, deep canyons, and outdoor adventure opportunities.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Stunning Canyons: Explore the Tara River Canyon, Europe’s deepest canyon.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, rafting, and skiing in the park’s beautiful settings.
  • Diverse Landscapes: Experience a range of landscapes from glacial lakes to dense forests.

Don’t Miss: Take a rafting trip on the Tara River for an exciting adventure.

15. Göreme National Park, Turkey

one of europe's best national parks in turkey
Country: Turkey
Nearest Airport: Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV)
How to Get There: A 40-minute drive from the airport to the park’s unique landscapes.

Experience the Magic of Göreme National Park

Göreme National Park is one of Europe's best national parks because of its fairy-tale rock formations and ancient cave dwellings.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Unique Rock Formations: Explore the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia with its fairy chimneys and cave dwellings.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon ride for stunning aerial views of the unique landscapes.
  • Ancient History: Discover the rich history of the cave churches and dwellings.

Don’t Miss: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for a magical view of Cappadocia’s unique landscape.

Ready for Your Adventure At Europe's National Parks?

a national park with deer in europe
Our list of the best national parks in Europe offers the best of Europe’s natural beauty, from alpine peaks and glacier trails to stunning coastlines and ancient forests. Each Europe national park provides unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes that are sure to leave you in awe. Which park is on your bucket list?

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