Lonely Planet reveals 10 best European destinations for 2019

The High Tatras in Slovakia rank the highest in the selection for this summer, followed by Madrid in Spain and the Arctic Coast Way of Iceland

With summer slowly approaching it is time to finally decide where to head for the much-deserved vacation. For this reason, the famous publisher Lonely Planet has summoned its best experts to compile the ultimate list of places in Europe no traveller should miss this year.

The travel investigators roamed remote coastlines and unheralded regions as well as bustling cities to come up with something for anyone.

“From cultural city breaks to awe-inspiring scenery, buzzing foodie destinations and the best spots to escape the crowds, there are a wealth of experiences to be enjoyed across the continent this summer,” said Lonely Planet’s vice president of experience, Tom Hall.

“Whether they are firm holiday favourites that have something new to offer, or places you may never have come across, these destinations should be on any traveller’s wish list.”

Destination number one — High Tatras, Slovakia

With its unspoiled nature and the highest peaks the country has to offer, the mountain range of Slovakia has topped this year’s ranking.

The High Tatras offer exquisite hiking trails through its “crooked peaks and plunging waterfalls” as well as the opportunity to spot the brown bear thriving in its natural habitat.

Travellers can also conquer Slovakia’s highest mountain, Gerlach (Gerlachovský štít) or boat on the glacial Štrbské Pleso. Lonely Planet also admires the traditional hospitality in local high-altitude mountain chalets.

Madrid — Europe’s number two

The capital of Spain attracts the focus of travel experts by “springing back into step with renewed vigour”. The city prides itself with some of the best night-life scenes in Europe with its Calle de Ponzano — a strip of standing-only tapas spots and minimalist cocktail joints.

In addition, Madrid has also proved itself to be a progressive city. Travellers who prefer sustainable living can enjoy wide-scale pedestrianisation, bicycle lanes and rental schemes. For those who love to walk, the city also has widened footpaths.

The crowds-free icy road

Iceland’s newly-founded Arctic Coast Way is something every nature-seeking traveller will adore. The route which winds between 21 villages and four islands along Iceland’s elemental north coast has ranked third in the Lonely Planet’s selection.

According to Lonely Planet, the road features the natural wonders for which Iceland is rightly famed. There are thunderous waterfalls, colossal glaciers, or steaming fumaroles. The route boasts endless opportunities for snow sports, wildlife watching and wilderness adventures with one additional perk. There are almost no crowds.