5 Exciting Places to Visit in Europe in 2024
2024 is an exciting year for those seeking adventure in Europe. From green-minded hiking, to emerging culinary scenes, to dazzling new architecture - this continent has something for all tastes.
What's more, an array of new hotels have been unveiled - from Richard Branson’s rural escape in Mallorca, to Greek beach hotels offering cryotherapy and hammam treatments.
Of course, many destinations already had the ingredients of an unforgettable escape - whether that's Norway's awe-inspiring Northern Lights, the bucolic trails of Spain's Asturias region, or the pulse-quickening nightlife of Budapest.
But numerous cultural events will add to the excitement in the coming 12 months - including events for marking 150 years since the Hungarian capital’s three main districts were reunified, and Bodǿ being awarded European Capital of Culture for 2024.
Here's our pick of the most enthralling destinations for your 2024 getaway in Europe.
The Cyclades, Greece
New hotels and flights add allure to these paradisal Greek islands
The Cyclades islands comprise some of the most Instagrammable destinations on the planet right now - and 2024 looks to continue the trend with a host of alluring new hotels.
The island group includes the perennial big-hitters Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, Milos, and Ios, offering everything you might need for a sunny escape, including opulent beach clubs, buzzing nightclubs, and dazzling blue-and-white backdrops.
It's also easier to reach and explore the islands, with Cycladic, the region's first inter-island airline, continuing to build out the network it began in 2022. New routes from British Airways and Etias also make Greek-bound jollies more accessible.
Fresh hotel offerings include Kalsema Mykonos' updated spa, with hammam and cryotherapy services; Santo Pure Oia's 20 new suites; and the 80-acre Gundari Resort, which unveils in May.
Mallorca, Spain
2024 sees several new 5-star hotels open
Mallorca has long been a favourite of Brits seeking affordable luxury, stunning hiking trails, and of course, fabulous beaches. But next year there are even more reasons to visit.
2024 will see a raft of exciting new hotel openings on the Balearic island, including Richard Branson's new 5-star, Son Bunyola. Set in the northern hinterlands, it features a terrace, restaurant, spa, and hot tub - an offering fit for a celebrity wishing to keep a (relatively) low profile.
Another enticing new option is Zel Mallorca, a high-end beachfront project owned by Rafael Nadal and Melia. Located in the Palmanova beach area, it presents a pool with stunning sea views and a cosy atmosphere, with plenty of activities to enjoy - including tennis!
For luxury on an even grander scale, there's the all-new Ikos Porto Petro, with no fewer than five swimming pools, a spa, and fitness centre. It's just an 8-minute stroll from Calo de Sa Torre Beach.
Bodǿ and Lofoten islands, Norway
Visit the European Capital of Culture for 2024
Famed for its ethereal light show, the Auroa Borealis, the northern reaches of Norway - particularly Bodǿ and Lofoten islands - have long been a magnet for photographers and nature lovers.
And Bodǿ will occupy more of the limelight than usual in 2024, having been awarded the European Capital of Culture for 2024 accolade. More than 1,000 events will take place in this diminutive fishing town, with a focus on the area's Sami heritage. Celebrations will centre around the striking Stormen Concert Hall, located in the harbour.
Alongside the many cultural events, there's a lot happening on the foodie scene (sample the fabulous Brødrene Berbusmel Bakery for breakfast, for instance), as well as a host of new hotel openings.
The minimal Scandi-aesthetic of The Wood Hotel, with its nature-minded accommodation, is also worth your consideration.
Asturias, Spain
Experience Asturias’ nature-kind hiking and burgeoning culinary scene in 2024
More than 2.4 million people visited the alluring Asturias region last year - more than ever before. Its four-decade-old slogan "Asturias, nature paradise" has not been updated for a good reason: it boasts a number of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, a tranquil stretch of the famous Camino de Santiago (Camino Primitivo), and of course, plenty of life-giving sunshine.
The food is another reason to arrive. 11 Michelin stars are dotted across the region, and there's a burgeoning culinary scene in the Caudal and Nalón valleys. And with numerous famous Spanish chefs plying their trade here, it's little wonder the Asturian capital, Oviedo, has bagged Spain's Gastronomic Capital for 2024. The Euro-Toque conference will happen here in May, attracting more than 200 top-name chefs.
And those seeking environmentally focused accommodation will not be disappointed: La Rectoral de Taramundi - Spain's first rural hotel - is found here, while Palacio de Figueras from the Vestige Collection, and CoolRooms’ Palacio de Luces, add to the opulent options.
Budapest, Hungary
Enjoy reunification events and an effervescent night scene this year
Few other cities present such a diverse range of architectural styles: Here, gothic, baroque, neoclassical, and art nouveau are found across the Buda, Pest, and Obuda areas - which began celebrating 150 years of unification in November 2023.
The city's oldest span, the Chain Bridge, has recently reopened after a two-year restoration, in time for celebratory events. Located on the snaking Danube, from here you can enjoy splendid views of Buda Castle and the uber-opulent Hungarian Parliament Building.
And the decadent theme continues indoors, with many ornate, mineral-rich thermal baths, and a clutch of buzzing bars - particularly in the ruin bars area, which rose Lazarus-style after the brutality of the Communist occupation.
Budapest's optimism is further demonstrated by new forward-looking buildings such as the National Athletics Centre (chief host of the 2023’s World Athletics Championships), and the offbeat, award-winning House of Hungarian Music.
Recent hotel additions include Marriott's Dorothea Hotel, with its snazzy rooftop restaurant and 216 rooms; and Eastern Europe's first Hard Rock Hotel, found on happening Nagymező Street.
Get a Quote