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The second-smallest continent on Earth is one of the richest in terms of history, culture, and world-class attractions, which is why the remarkable fascination that Europe stirs among travelers is a phenomenon that doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon.
As the year quickly comes to an end, though, new trends and patterns are emerging in the international travel scene.
Condé Nast Traveler just released its long-awaited list of the top 12 European destinations to visit in 2024, and these 5 in particular, are not to be missed:
Northern Italy
Since there are so many must-visit cities nestled in this gorgeous region of Italy, the area was included as a whole in Condé Nast’s “best European destinations” round-up.
Think about it – would you be able to pick a single favorite out of the likes of Milan, Venice, Verona, Parma, Moderna, Genoa, Turin, and Bologna?
Though similar, each city boasts a unique type of charm that calls for a dedicated travel day, so if you decide to add Northern Italy to your travel itinerary next year, make sure to allow enough time for you to experience everything the region has to offer.
You can start your journey in Venice, where you can take an enchanting gondola ride along the Grand Canal, explore the labyrinthine streets of the city, and stumble upon mom-and-pop trattorias whose food will always leave you asking for seconds.
Milan is yet another obligatory stop in your trip through Northern Italy.
The country’s fashion capital features so many iconic attractions that you won’t be able to go through them all in a couple of hours – you’ll want to spend at least 2-3 days here.
Go window shopping in the iconic Berera Design District, indulge in the world-class performances showcased at La Scala, and marvel at the architectural wonder that is the Duomo of Milano, just make sure to take it all in – you won’t find any other place like it on Earth.
Yorkshire, UK
The picturesque county set in Northern England boasts a fairytale-like tapestry of countryside landscapes and historical towns.
York, the idyllic cathedral city that offers views of the iconic York Minster and the medieval Shambles streets, provides visitors with an otherworldly experience.
After a couple of days exploring the cobbled alleys of York, you can find solace in the vast expanse of the Yorkshire Dales, a region characterized by rolling hills and villages that seem to have come out right out of a book.
Speaking of which, avid readers will find their haven in Brontë Country.
The area, inspired by the works of the Brontë sisters, offers the perfect literary pilgrimage through Haworth and its moorland surroundings.
Bodø, Norway
Nestled in the Arctic Circle, Bodø offers the most stunning blend of natural wonders and thrilling opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Saltstraumen Maelstrom, the world’s strongest tidal current, creates a mesmerizing display as waters surge through a narrow strait while the majestic mountains and fjords that surround the one-of-a-kind town beckon hikers with thrilling boat excursions and jaw-dropping viewpoints.
A section on Bodø’s wonders wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the Midnight Sun (if you’re traveling during the summer) and Northern Lights (if you’re traveling from September to April), which create the celestial spectacle of a lifetime.
Budapest, Hungary
It was about time this criminally underrated European capital made it to a must-visit list.
Often dubbed “the Paris of the East,” Budapest captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring architecture strategically placed along the Danube River.
For the best views of the city, though, you can’t beat Fisherman’s Bastion or, better yet, the iconic Buda Castle.
Beyond the incredible sights, Budapest is also home to the relaxing Széchenyi Thermal Bath, several famous ruin bars (located in the historic Jewish Quarter), and a plethora of culinary delights from Lángos to Gulyás.
Mallorca, Spain
The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands has quickly become synonymous with its paradisic beaches and other-worldly views.
Beyond Cala Agulla and Cala Millor, visitors will be able to revel in the area’s natural allure through the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers hiking trails surrounded by terraced landscapes and olive groves.
City trippers might want to stay put in Palma instead, the region’s capital with a gorgeous Old Town that’s just waiting to be explored.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com