These Spectacular Islands in Europe You Must See

When you think of an island vacation in Mallorca, Rhodes, or Sardinia, does it move you surprisingly little, and instead, your explorer and adventure urge regularly takes you far away? You don't have to, because there are hardly developed islands in Europe, which guarantee excitement and emotional highs!

Whether you need summery warm temperatures for your exploration trip or prefer being happy on icy peaks, whether you love wild nature or enjoy a break by the sea now and then - our selection of spectacular islands in Europe will surely include one or two dream destinations for you. Get inspired! These vacation destinations are sure to make your travel heart beat faster.

When it comes to the most spectacular, adventurous, exciting, or simply unique islands in Europe, the Azores are definitely a mainstay in all the top ten rankings. You can imagine the nine islands as the tips of gigantic underwater volcanoes that also present a unique volcanic landscape above the water.

This is evidenced not only by the 'fumaroles,' which are steam outlets in volcanically active areas. Bubbling mud pots and hot springs also repeatedly remind us that you are in an area of volcanic origin.

But the Azores offer even more: exotic nature, rugged landscapes, graceful mountains, lush green meadows, waterfalls that flow into deep crater lakes and later into the stormy ocean, caves and grottos, bright blue lakes, whales and dolphins living off the coast, vibrant underwater worlds - the Azores are truly a natural wonder.

And of course, the island can also boast beautiful beaches, but with such an abundance, it's hard to just relax and not discover all the treasures of this tropical-looking jewel.

Have you ever heard of a heart island? There are only a few worldwide, and one of them is not very far away. Galesnjak Island in Croatia looks like a perfectly formed heart from above and is thus a real rarity. The shape of the island was discovered with the help of satellites only in 2009 and has since been one of the most popular destinations for couples and lovers. The island is a sought-after spot for engagements and weddings.

The uninhabited island not only delights with its special shape but also boasts white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and secluded bays. Nature fans and anyone who appreciates peace, silence, and tranquility will surely feel at home here.

Anyone looking for spectacular islands in Europe cannot ignore Iceland. The natural wonder impresses with its unique combination of fire and ice: While the ground is hot and fiercely bubbling, the imposing mountains and ice masses form the arctic contrast.

This explosive combination is due to the largest volcanic island in the world lying above two tectonic plates that meet right under it. The result? Fiery volcanoes, erupting geysers, mighty rivers, bubbling mud puddles, breathtaking lakes, towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, rugged fjords, and on top of that, the largest glacier in Europe. Now if that's not an El Dorado for explorers, naturalists, and adventure seekers!

Although Iceland is experiencing a travel boom, it remains largely peaceful on this sparsely populated patch of earth. You will likely encounter more sheep than people while traveling and can thus experience the unbridled power of nature in absolute seclusion.

The Lipari or Aeolian Islands are a hidden island paradise just off the coast of Sicily and are still considered a true insider's tip. The volcanic surroundings, charming villages, and enchanting beaches have even earned the seven islands in the Mediterranean a UNESCO label. The islands are easily accessible by ferry and well-connected to each other, making them perfect for island hopping.

Each of the seven pearls impresses with its own peculiarities. For example, Lipari is the largest of them and is mainly known for its fortress and beautiful beaches. On Salina, you'll find lush nature and good food, while on Vulcano - as the name suggests - you can discover four volcanoes. Afterward, you can end the day in the natural thermal springs.

Stromboli is probably the absolute highlight of the island group: It is home to one of the most active volcanoes in all of Europe. If you're looking for adventure, you shouldn't miss it. Despite erupting every 20 minutes, it can still be climbed.

Seasoned travelers have long had the subtropical archipelago of Madeira in the southwest of Portugal on their radar for adventurous destinations in Europe. The year-round pleasant travel climate, attractive flora and fauna, exciting landscapes, and beaches of all shapes and colors make this island a unique dream destination nearby.

The island's true charm lies in its many facets: You might be standing in freezing cold above the clouds enjoying the view over the wide ocean, and after just a few minutes of driving, you are already lying in tropical heat on one of the colorful beaches with a refreshing cocktail in your hand. Then again, you're hiking through the wild jungle on your way to the next waterfall. In short: The diversity of the island is simply unparalleled.

Adventurers venture to the rugged north of Madeira, which also earns the island comparison to Hawaii: volcanic landscapes, mystical waterfalls, black sand beaches, idyllic headlands, as well as sharks and dolphins remind one of a tropical island paradise. Those who love breathtaking nature will love Madeira - promised.

Okay, the Lofoten may not be your typical summer vacation destination, but who needs azure waters, coconut drinks, and palm trees when you can turn night into day? The island group in northern Norway with over 80 islands is one of the many travelers' dream destinations.

Anyone familiar with the glossy pictures from the internet can understand why. Surrounded by the Atlantic, there is hardly any transition from the coast to the rugged mountains. Nestled in between are scattered small fishing villages that radiate absolute calm and peace.

Traveling here in the summer allows you to make the most of the day - there is virtually no darkness then. Furthermore, the Lofoten benefit from the warm Gulf Stream, so temperatures in summer often exceed 20 degrees Celsius. Even in winter, temperatures rarely drop below freezing, making it an ideal place to go in search of the Northern Lights.

Gaiola - that's the name of the two islands in southern Italy, which are connected by a natural land bridge above their rocky walls. The few square meters large double island is just a few strokes away from the coast of Naples and admittedly, due to its small size and proximity to the coast, not particularly suited for an island vacation. Yet we did not want to withhold it from you as one of the most spectacular islands in Europe! Why?

Although it looks absolutely inviting and paradisiacal in the turquoise glowing water, the curious land bridge is not the only strange thing about this tiny island. Gaiola's bad reputation began in the early 19th century when a hermit, known among the locals as a sorcerer, lived on the island for a few years. However, things turned ominous only in the 20th century. One of the first owners was found dead in his villa, wrapped in a carpet. The widowed wife, unable to cope with her husband's death, reportedly drowned herself in the sea.

The subsequent owners of the island were also plagued by misfortune. Illnesses, deaths, financial wipeouts, and other peculiar incidents did not take long to appear and have characterized the island's past since the first stroke of bad luck. Today, Gaiola is uninhabited.

The thrill entices you, and you want to see the island? You can come close with a boat or dive and snorkel right in front of it.

The Faroe Islands rank among the most unspoiled, least discovered, yet most spectacular islands all over Europe. Rugged mountain landscapes instead of softened terrains, craggy cliffs, steep drop-offs instead of bright sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters, icy winds instead of constant summer temperatures - if this vision makes your happiness hormones do somersaults, then you should spend your vacation in the Faroe Islands.

The fairy-tale archipelago of 18 islands is located between Scotland, Iceland, and Norway, and actually belongs to Denmark but is practically self-governing. Since most attractions are best reached by car, and some islands are connected by bridges, it makes sense to arrive by car ferry or rent a vehicle on-site.

Must-do's on the Faroe Islands include Vagar and Streymoy islands, the lake Sørvágsvatn that tips into the ocean, the Mulafossur waterfall, the idyllic village of Bøur, and the Instagram spot Saksun.