Europe has an incredible array of national parks that showcase the continent’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife. From snow-capped mountains and lush forests to dramatic coastlines and tranquil lakes, these parks offer something for every nature enthusiast.
In this article, we will explore the top 20 best national parks in Europe, providing detailed descriptions of their history, attractions, and what makes them stand out among the rest.
Best National Parks in Europe
1. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Established in 1949, Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers over 115 square miles and is famous for its 16 terraced lakes, connected by a series of waterfalls and cascades.
The mineral-rich waters of the park have created unique travertine barriers, resulting in constantly evolving landscapes and a dazzling array of colors, from azure to green and grey.
A network of wooden walkways and hiking trails allows visitors to explore the park’s stunning scenery and diverse ecosystems, which support a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and over 160 species of birds.
2. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
Established in 1990, Saxon Switzerland National Park is located in eastern Germany near the border with the Czech Republic. The park spans over 36 square miles and is renowned for its unique sandstone formations, including the iconic Bastei Bridge and the imposing Königstein Fortress.
Visitors can explore the park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from dense forests and deep gorges to rocky plateaus and meadows, through a vast network of hiking and cycling trails.
The park is also home to several species of rare plants and animals, such as the peregrine falcon, the European wildcat, and the fire salamander.
3. Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, Spain
Established in 1955, Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park is located in the heart of the Pyrenees in Catalonia, Spain. The park covers over 55 square miles and features more than 200 lakes, numerous waterfalls, and towering granite peaks.
The park’s unique high-mountain landscapes are characterized by meandering streams, known as “aigüestortes,” which create intricate patterns across the terrain.
Visitors can explore the park through an extensive network of trails, with highlights including the stunning Lake Sant Maurici, the Encantats Peaks, and the Colomers and Saboredo glacial cirques.
4. Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
Established in 1980, Jotunheimen National Park is located in southern Norway and encompasses over 1,300 square miles. The park is home to Norway’s highest mountain, Galdhøpiggen, and features dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, deep valleys, and more than 60 peaks over 6,500 feet high.
Jotunheimen is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, climbing, skiing, and fishing. Popular trails include the Besseggen Ridge, which offers breathtaking views of the Gjende and Bessvatnet lakes, and the scenic route to the top of Galdhøpiggen.
5. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Established in 2008, Vatnajökull National Park is Iceland’s largest national park, covering over 5,300 square miles. The park encompasses the vast Vatnajökull glacier, which is the largest ice cap in Europe, as well as the volcanic areas of Askja and Snæfell.
The park has diverse landscapes, from ice caves and glacial lagoons to geothermal areas and dramatic canyons. Major attractions within the park include Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, Svartifoss waterfall, and the stunning ice caves within the Vatnajökull glacier.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, ice climbing, and wildlife watching, with opportunities to spot reindeer, Arctic foxes, and various bird species.
6. Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy
Established in 1922, Gran Paradiso National Park is Italy’s oldest national park, located in the Graian Alps in the Aosta Valley and Piedmont regions.
The park covers an area of over 700 square miles and is named after the Gran Paradiso mountain, which stands at an impressive height of 13,323 feet. The park is home to diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows, dense forests, and high-altitude glaciers.
Gran Paradiso is known for its abundant wildlife, particularly the Alpine ibex, which was saved from extinction thanks to the park’s creation. Other species found in the park include marmots, chamois, and golden eagles.
7. Białowieża National Park, Poland
Established in 1932, Białowieża National Park is located in eastern Poland and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers over 40 square miles and is home to the Białowieża Forest, one of the last and largest remaining parts of the primeval forest that once covered much of Europe.
The park is famous for its European bison population, the continent’s heaviest land animals. Białowieża National Park also hosts diverse flora and fauna, including over 250 species of birds, wolves, lynxes, and the rare white-backed woodpecker. Visitors can explore the park through guided tours and various hiking and cycling trails.
8. Triglav National Park, Slovenia
Established in 1981, Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park, named after the country’s highest peak, Mount Triglav. The park covers over 330 square miles in the Julian Alps and is characterized by its stunning alpine scenery, including glacial valleys, rugged peaks, and crystal-clear lakes.
The park’s most famous attraction is Lake Bohinj, the largest permanent lake in Slovenia, which offers a range of water-based activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Other highlights include the Vintgar Gorge, the Savica Waterfall, and the picturesque Alpine village of Trenta.
9. Écrins National Park, France
Established in 1973, Écrins National Park is located in the French Alps and covers an area of over 1,350 square miles. The park is home to diverse landscapes, ranging from alpine meadows and glaciers to rugged peaks and forests.
Écrins National Park has over 100 peaks above 9,800 feet and more than 700 kilometers of hiking trails. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including chamois, ibex, golden eagles, and bearded vultures.
Popular attractions within the park include the scenic Barre des Écrins, the highest peak in the park, and the picturesque village of La Grave.
10. Oulanka National Park, Finland
Established in 1956, Oulanka National Park is located in northern Finland, near the border with Russia. The park covers over 100 square miles and features diverse landscapes, including pine forests, river valleys, and vast wetlands.
Oulanka National Park is crossed by two famous hiking trails, the Karhunkierros (Bear’s Ring) and the Pieni Karhunkierros (Little Bear’s Ring), which offer stunning views of the park’s scenery, including its numerous waterfalls and rapids.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as brown bears, wolverines, reindeer, and the rare Siberian flying squirrel. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and observing the Northern Lights.
11. Killarney National Park, Ireland
Established in 1932, Killarney National Park is located in southwestern Ireland and covers over 40 square miles. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Lakes of Killarney, ancient oak forests, and the McGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.
Major attractions within the park include Ross Castle, Muckross House and Gardens, and the Gap of Dunloe. Killarney National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as red deer, otters, and numerous bird species.
Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or by taking a traditional jaunting car ride through the picturesque scenery.
12. Peneda-Gerês National Park, Portugal
Established in 1971, Peneda-Gerês National Park is Portugal’s only national park, covering over 270 square miles in the northwest region of the country. The park is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including rugged granite mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers.
Peneda-Gerês is rich in history, featuring megalithic tombs, ancient Roman roads, and traditional villages. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as the endangered Iberian wolf, wild Garrano horses, and golden eagles. Popular activities within the park include hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching.
13. Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain
Established in 1918, Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park is located in the Pyrenees of northeastern Spain and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers over 60 square miles and features dramatic landscapes, including the limestone massif of Monte Perdido, deep canyons, and lush forests.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as the Pyrenean chamois, griffon vultures, and the elusive bearded vulture. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, including the famous Ordesa Valley and the challenging ascent of Monte Perdido.
14. Koli National Park, Finland
Established in 1991, Koli National Park is located in eastern Finland and covers over 12 square miles. The park is best known for its stunning vistas from the Koli Hills, which have inspired Finnish artists for centuries.
Koli National Park features a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, and lakes, providing habitats for a variety of wildlife, such as bears, lynxes, and European nightjars.
Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail network by foot, bicycle, or even horseback, and enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and skiing in the winter months.
15. Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Established in 1951, Snowdonia National Park is located in northwestern Wales and covers over 800 square miles. The park is home to the highest mountain in Wales, Mount Snowdon, which stands at 3,560 feet.
Snowdonia National Park features a diverse landscape, including rugged mountains, deep valleys, and pristine lakes. The park is rich in history, with ancient castles, such as Harlech and Dolwyddelan, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Caernarfon Castle.
Visitors can explore the park through numerous hiking trails, including the challenging ascent of Mount Snowdon, or enjoy activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, and kayaking.
16. Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Established in 1952, Durmitor National Park is located in northwestern Montenegro and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers over 130 square miles and is characterized by its dramatic limestone peaks, deep canyons, and glacial lakes.
The park’s most famous attraction is the Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe, which offers thrilling white-water rafting experiences. Durmitor National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and over 160 species of birds.
Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, enjoy winter sports at the nearby Žabljak ski resort, or take a scenic drive along the Sedlo Pass.
17. Lake District National Park, England
Established in 1951, Lake District National Park is located in northwestern England and covers over 885 square miles.
The park is famous for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountains, which have inspired writers and artists such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.
The Lake District is home to England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, as well as its largest lake, Windermere. Visitors can explore the park through numerous hiking trails, enjoy water-based activities such as sailing and kayaking, or visit charming towns and villages like Keswick, Grasmere, and Ambleside.
18. Sarek National Park, Sweden
Established in 1909, Sarek National Park is located in northern Sweden and is part of the Laponian Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers over 746 square miles and is one of the most remote and pristine wilderness areas in Europe.
Sarek National Park features dramatic landscapes, including glacier-carved valleys, towering peaks, and over 100 glaciers. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as reindeer, moose, and the Arctic fox.
Due to its remote location and challenging terrain, Sarek National Park is best suited for experienced hikers and offers a true wilderness experience.
19. Göreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, Turkey
Established in 1986, Göreme National Park is located in central Turkey and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers over 36 square miles and is famous for its unique rock formations, known as “fairy chimneys,” which have been shaped by erosion over millions of years.
The park is also home to an extensive network of underground cities and cave dwellings, some of which date back to the 4th century.
Tourists can explore the park’s fascinating history and geology through guided tours, hike the numerous trails, or even take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape.
20. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales
Established in 1952, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is located in southwestern Wales and is the UK’s only coastal national park. The park covers over 240 square miles and features a dramatic coastline, characterized by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and secluded coves.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including grey seals, dolphins, and numerous seabirds. Visitors can explore the park’s 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which offers stunning views of the coast and opportunities to spot wildlife.
The park is also home to several historic sites, such as St. David’s Cathedral and the 13th-century Pembroke Castle.
Conclusion:
Europe’s national parks showcase the continent’s diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes, providing visitors with countless opportunities to explore and connect with nature.
From the tranquil lakes of Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park to the dramatic peaks of Norway’s Jotunheimen National Park, these 20 national parks represent the very best that Europe has to offer.
