20 of Europe’s best national parks to explore this summer
Experience Europe’s most breathtaking nature reserves – from majestic mountains to tranquil lakes. This guide helps you find the perfect destinations for summer adventures.
Choosing the best national parks across Europe is a challenge – the landscapes are incredibly diverse and offer a stunning variety of flora and fauna that attract visitors from all over the world.
Visiting them in summer, when nature is in full bloom and bathed in sunshine, is pure perfection. Whether you are interested in spectacular views, wildlife, adventure activities, or local history and culture, Europe has the perfect park for you this summer. Start planning now with this list of 20 natural superstars.
Best for wildlife tours – Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria
With Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner (3,798 m), and an area of 1,856 square kilometers, Hohe Tauern National Park is one of Europe’s largest nature reserves. The park is home to marmots, chamois, ibex, golden eagles, and bearded vultures, best experienced on ranger-led tours or hiking trails.
Don’t miss: Drive along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, a 48 km route with hairpin bends and mountain views that will take your breath away.
Best for remote hiking – Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
Jotunheimen National Park in Norway lives up to its name, “Home of the Giants.” With glaciers, deep blue lakes, and Norway’s two highest mountains, Galdhøpiggen (2,469 m) and Glittertind (2,452 m), it is a paradise for hikers. The park has 50 marked trails and offers activities such as river rafting and horseback riding.
Don’t miss: Hikes such as the Besseggen Ridge and the ascent of Galdhøpiggen offer some of Norway’s most spectacular views.
Best for lake trails – Switzerland’s National Park
Switzerland’s only national park, located in the Engadin Valley, is a visual feast of glacier-capped mountains, forests, and lakes. Nature has remained untouched since the park’s founding in 1914, making it a fantastic place for hiking and wildlife.
Don’t miss: The hike to the Macun Lakes, a 21 km day trip that takes you to a plateau with 23 shimmering lakes.
Best for silence and isolation – Oulanka National Park, Finland
Oulanka National Park in Finland is a peaceful escape from the world. The park features rivers, gorges, and boreal forests, and is home to bears, moose, and lynx. The famous Karhunkierros Trail (Bear’s Ring) is a three- to four-day hike through the park’s wildest areas.
Don’t miss: Oulanka Canyon and the Jyrävä Waterfall are highlights along the Karhunkierros Trail.
Best for adventurous landscapes – Triglav National Park, Slovenia
Triglav National Park in Slovenia is one of Europe’s largest nature reserves and offers deep gorges, crystal-clear rivers, and the Alps’ highest mountain in Slovenia, Triglav (2,864 m).
Don’t miss: Drive along the Vršič Pass for fantastic views over the mountains and valleys.
