Europe has several lake regions that are absolutely stunning and special in their own way. From Lake Como to Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are some of the most beautiful lake regions in Europe worth visiting.
Lake Como
Northern Italy’s Lake Como has become synonymous with glamour and celebrity, with stars such as George and Amal Clooney calling it home for part of the year. Set amidst the foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Como is brimming with natural beauty, and the small towns surrounding are charming and quaint. Varenna and Menaggio offer amazing views and plenty of historic churches and villas to admire as you take in this beautiful lake region. In the larger city of Como, you can admire the Renaissance-era architecture and take a cable car ride up the mountain to the town of Brunate, known as the “balcony of the Alps.”
Lake Bled
Located in Slovenia, Lake Bled is one of Europe’s hidden gems worth visiting. The emerald-colored lake is surrounded by the Julian Alps, adding to the fairytale setting of the region. One of the best things to do on Lake Bled is to get out on the water in a pletna, a traditional wooden boat that is available to rent. Bled Island is a small island located in the center of the lake with a historic church. The 11th-century Bled Castle sits high atop a cliff overlooking the lake is the oldest castle in Slovenia and features a museum, wine cellar, and restaurant.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Often considered one of the most beautiful places in the world, Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s oldest and largest national park and designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is famed for its gorgeous turquoise-colored lakes that have formed natural dams with waterfalls and caves scattered throughout the beautiful scenery of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Take a boat ride on the crystal-clear lakes or go hiking to explore the nearby waterfalls.
Lake Geneva
Nestled in the Alps between France and Switzerland, the exquisite Lake Geneva is one of the largest lakes in Europe. Known locally as Lac Léman, the lake is surrounded by lovely small towns and grand chateaux. The Swiss city of Geneva is located at the southern end of the lake and is known for its luxury shopping and historical Old Town district with museums, a cathedral, and ancient alleyways. Also on the Swiss side, Montreux is famous for its traditional Christmas Market overlooking Lake Geneva with over 170 chalets selling handmade gifts and local delicacies, as well as a train ride up the mountain to see Santa. The spa town Évian-les-Bains and the medieval town of Yvoire are famous French locales along Lake Geneva.
Lake Hallstatt
Set against a mountainous backdrop, Austria’s Lake Hallstatt is another breathtaking lake region in Europe and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town of Hallstatt is known for having one of the first salt mines in the world and is one of the oldest still inhabited settlements in Europe. Hallstatt’s Old Town district is a popular attraction, as well as visiting the salt mines and ice caves. For awe-inspiring views of the region, visitors can take the cable car ride to the top of the mountain to the Skywalk Welterbeblick viewing platform.
