20 of Europe’s Best National Parks to Visit This Summer

Europe’s national parks are as diverse as they are breathtaking, each offering a unique mix of natural beauty, wildlife, culture, and even a touch of history. Here’s a journey through 20 of the continent’s finest parks, perfect for exploration this summer.

1. Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria

Home to Austria’s tallest peak, Grossglockner, this sprawling 1856 sq km park dazzles with towering summits, glaciers, and stunning waterfalls. It’s a haven for wildlife such as marmots, golden eagles, and ibex, best spotted on guided hikes. Drive the thrilling Grossglockner High Alpine Road to experience jaw-dropping mountain views.

2. Jotunheimen National Park, Norway

Nicknamed the “Home of Giants,” this park boasts Norway’s highest peaks, glittering lakes, and icy glaciers. With 50 hiking trails, river rafting, and via ferrata routes, adventurers are spoiled for choice. The iconic Besseggen ridge hike offers unforgettable vistas.

3. Swiss National Park, Switzerland

Switzerland’s only national park is a pristine slice of the Alps, untouched since its creation in 1914. Trek through larch forests and alpine meadows, keeping an eye out for ibex and golden eagles. The Lakes of Macun hike showcases turquoise alpine lakes like gemstones in the rugged landscape.

4. Oulanka National Park, Finland

This tranquil park near Finland’s border with Russia offers silence and solitude. Explore its rivers, dense forests, and wildflower-filled meadows by foot, bike, or canoe. The Bear’s Ring Trail is a multi-day hike showcasing the park’s rugged beauty.

5. Black Forest National Park, Germany

Straight out of a fairy tale, this park’s dense fir forests and sparkling lakes are a delight for hikers and cyclists. Scenic drives, like the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse, lead to highlights like the glacial Mummelsee and panoramic views from Hornisgrinde.

6. Parc National des Écrins, France

The French Alps are at their most dramatic here, with glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and towering peaks. Explore over 740km of trails, visit quaint hamlets, or attempt a summit like Barre des Écrins for unforgettable alpine adventure.

7. Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal

Tucked in Portugal’s northernmost region, this park blends rugged granite peaks with terraced fields and traditional stone granaries. Discover wild horses grazing in flower-filled meadows or hike to the historic village of Peneda, complete with a ruined Moorish castle.

8. Jostedalsbreen National Park, Norway

Famous for the vast Jostedalsbreen Glacier, this park is a marvel of icy beauty. Visit glacier arms like Briksdalsbreen or paddle the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Lovatnet, surrounded by dramatic peaks.

9. Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, Italy

This park in the Italian Dolomites is a masterpiece of geology, with luminous peaks and serene valleys. The Alta Via 1 trek offers 125km of breathtaking trails, weaving through mountain huts and unforgettable alpine vistas.

10. Teide National Park, Spain

Centered around Spain’s tallest volcano, Mount Teide, this park’s otherworldly landscapes include volcanic rock formations and ancient craters. For the best experience, stargaze on clear nights or hike the trails for mesmerizing views.

11. Hortobágy National Park, Hungary

Hungary’s sprawling plains preserve the traditions of its horse-herding heritage. Ride through the grasslands by horse-drawn wagon, spotting iconic Hungarian grey cattle and soaking in the region’s rustic charm.

12. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Encompassing glaciers, volcanoes, and vast ice sheets, this is Europe’s largest protected area. Explore highlights like Dettifoss waterfall and Ásbyrgi Canyon, or marvel at the extraordinary Lakagígar Craters.

13. Vikos-Aoös National Park, Greece

In northern Greece, this park is a blend of serene lakes, dramatic gorges, and historic stone bridges. The Vikos Gorge hike and the ascent of Mount Smolikas showcase the region’s rugged splendor.

14. Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

This dramatic park features jagged peaks, ancient forests, and the breathtaking Tara Canyon. Adventure seekers will love hiking its 48 towering summits or rafting through the canyon’s turquoise waters.

15. La Maddalena National Park, Italy

This marine paradise off Sardinia’s coast boasts crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. Snorkel among vibrant marine life or relax on idyllic beaches like Spiaggia Rosa with its unique pink-tinged sand.

16. Sarek National Park, Sweden

Sweden’s wildest park offers a rugged, off-the-grid experience. Untamed rivers and glacier-clad peaks dominate the landscape, with the King’s Trail providing a path through this Arctic wilderness.

17. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a wonderland of cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes. Each season offers a unique perspective, from blooming butterflies in summer to frozen waterfalls in winter.

18. Picos de Europa, Spain

In northern Spain, this park’s limestone peaks and lush valleys are a haven for wildlife and history buffs alike. Explore caves adorned with ancient art or hike to the base of the dramatic El Naranjo de Bulnes.

19. Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Slovenia’s Julian Alps shine in this expansive park, home to turquoise rivers, towering peaks, and serene Lake Bohinj. Highlights include the Savica Waterfall and the dramatic Vršič Pass drive.

20. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Scotland’s Highlands are on full display here, with vast pine forests, shimmering lochs, and snow-dusted mountains. Hike the classic Munros or stargaze in one of Europe’s premier Dark Sky Parks for a magical experience.