12 Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe
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These Surreal Places in Europe Seem Like Dreams — but You Can Actually Visit Them

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Despite being the second smallest continent in the world, Europe is home to some of the world’s most impressive landscapes, cities, historical landmarks, and coastlines. However, when we’re asked to think about Europe, our minds usually go straight to famous cities like Paris, vibrant coastal towns in Italy, and tropical Greek Islands. 

We rarely think of the more unique destinations, of which there are plenty. To give these unique destinations some justice, we’ve compiled a list of 12 surreal places you won’t believe are in Europe. The destinations on this list are simply the most fascinating places in Europe that must be seen to be believed.

The Tulip Fields, Netherlands

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe The Tulip Fields, Netherlands
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Many people planning a trip to the Netherlands spend most of their time looking for things to do in Amsterdam. While Amsterdam is a beautiful city to explore, one of Europe’s most spectacular sights can be found not too far away. From April to mid-May, tulip fields across the Netherlands come to life with color.

When these vast flower fields bloom, the landscape is lit with bright green, red, yellow, orange, and pink flowers, creating a picturesque scene perfect for your Instagram feed. Keukenhof Tulip Gardens, 24 miles (40 kilometers) from Amsterdam, is recognized globally as the best place to experience the phenomenon. You’ll find over 79 acres (32 hectares) of lush fields here.

  • Visit Keukenhof Tulip Gardens: Explore the Keukenhof Tulip Gardens, located 24 miles from Amsterdam. Experience over 79 acres of vibrant tulip fields. Admission is USD 21 for adults.
  • Plan Your Visit: Visit between April and mid-May to see the tulips in full bloom. 

Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Godafoss Waterfall, Iceland

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Godafoss Waterfall, Iceland
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Iceland is home to some of the most scenic landscapes in Europe, if not the world. One of the most surreal is the Godafoss Waterfall in Northern Iceland. This unmissable attraction is the highlight of any Icelandic road trip. Godafoss Waterfall is located along the Skjálfandafljót River. It’s 39 feet (12 meters) high and 98 feet (30 meters) wide.

Dubbed the ‘Waterfall of the Gods,’ its unique horseshoe shape and two main drops are a sight to behold. This location is even more surreal because you can sometimes spot the Northern Lights. Imagine it now: an icy wonderland with the bright green hue of the Aurora reflecting off the water. What’s not to like?

  • Visit Godafoss Waterfall: Explore the stunning Godafoss Waterfall in Northern Iceland. It’s 39 feet high and 98 feet wide, with a unique horseshoe shape.
  • Spot the Northern Lights: Visit during the winter months for a chance to see the Northern Lights. The Aurora’s green hues reflecting off the waterfall create a magical scene.

Read also: Charming Small Towns in Europe

The Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe The Tunnel of Love, Ukraine
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The Tunnel of Love in Ukraine is a beautiful sight loved by romantic couples who visit the spot to take photographs. Found near the town of Klevan in Western Ukraine, the Tunnel of Love was once a section of industrial railway that linked the town to Orzhiv. Now, the line is only used by a small train to carry wood to a local factory.

After being left to grow, the bushes and trees surrounding the railway line have created a stunning 1.8-mile (3-kilometer) tunnel of lush green arches. Walking along the track is incredible; you might even glimpse the train emerging in the distance.

  • Combine with a Klevan Visit: Explore the nearby town of Klevan. Visit Klevan Castle ruins and enjoy local Ukrainian cuisine at nearby cafes.
  • Best Time for Photos: Visit in late spring or early summer when the foliage is at its greenest. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for capturing stunning photos.

Read also: Insta-Worthy Spots in Europe

Bigar Waterfall, Romania

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Bigar Waterfall, Romania
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Located in the southwest of Romania, in the Anina Mountains, and on the Anina River, the Bigar Waterfall is one of the most unique waterfalls in the world. The water falls from a height of 16 feet (5 meters) and plunges over moss-covered ledges into the forest river. For good measure, there’s also a cave found near the waterfall.

Better still, Bigar Waterfall is uniquely located on the 45th parallel north, which is the halfway point between the North Pole and the Equator. Like something from a fairytale, you certainly don’t want to forget your camera when visiting the waterfall!

  • Photograph the Mossy Ledges: Position yourself at the base of the waterfall for the best angle to capture the water cascading over the moss-covered ledges.
  • Explore Bigar Cave: Just a short walk from the waterfall, explore the nearby cave. Bring a flashlight to safely navigate and see the cave’s features.

Read also: Unique Places for Your European Bucket List

Houska Castle, Czech Republic

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Houska Castle, Czech Republic
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Houska Castle in Blatce, Czech Republic, is a spectacular 13th-century mansion surrounded by dense forest. However, it has a pretty surreal history. According to local legend, Houska Castle is the gateway to hell.

Regarded as one of the most haunted places in the world, it’s believed the castle was constructed over a hole so deep nobody could see the bottom. Local folklore has it that dark, mysterious creatures crawl out of the hole at night to drag unfortunate travelers into hell. We don’t know about you, but we might miss this destination for now, just to be on the safe side!

  • Visit the Chapel: Spend time in the castle’s chapel, which is said to be built directly over the “gateway to hell.” It’s a key part of the castle’s mysterious lore.
  • Explore Nearby Trails: After your castle visit, hike the marked trails in the surrounding forest. Bring a map or use a GPS app to navigate safely.

Read also: Affordable European Cities

Odle Mountains, Italy

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Odle Mountains, Italy
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The Odle Mountains are a mountain range in the Northern Italian Alps best known for its towering peaks, uniquely shaped spires, sharp pinnacles, and deep ridges, which create an incredibly dramatic landscape

At 9,924 feet (3,025 meters), Sas Rigais is an iconic peak in the Odle Mountains. It stands tall above the meadows below and has a unique dinosaur-like appearance. At first glance, you’d half expect Godzilla to climb out of the ground!

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In summer, this rugged landscape is dotted with vibrant wildflowers. The addition of color gives the mountains a more impressive and dreamier appearance. At sunrise and sunset, the fiery-colored sky only enhances the scenery.

  • Explore Wildflower Meadows: In summer, take a walk through the meadows dotted with vibrant wildflowers.
  • Hike to Sas Rigais: Plan a hike to the summit of Sas Rigais, the iconic peak of the Odle Mountains. Ensure you have proper hiking gear and check trail conditions before setting out.

Read also: Cities in Europe for Solo Traveling

Crooked Forest, Poland

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Crooked Forest, Poland
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Landscape photography enthusiasts will quickly fall in love with everything about Crooked Forest. Found south of Szczecin in northwest Poland, the aptly named Crooked Forest is home to more than 400 bizarrely shaped pine trees. Unlike anything you’ve ever seen, every pine tree in the forest has a sweeping bent trunk.

The cause of this extraterrestrial-like landscape has been debated for many years, but nobody has yet been able to explain it. Some arboriculturists believe torrential snowstorms cause the phenomenon, while others believe local lumberjacks used a unique growing technique. For now, though, the Crooked Forest’s secrets must remain a mystery.

  • Visit Nearby Szczecin: After exploring the forest, head to Szczecin for more attractions. Enjoy the city’s parks and historical sites.

Read also: Natural Wonders in Europe

Cappadocia, Turkey

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Cappadocia, Turkey
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Cappadocia in Turkey captivates travelers worldwide with a dreamlike environment, unique cultures, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The most distinctive feature of Cappadocia’s Mars-like appearance is the Fairy Chimneys. Over centuries, these tall, natural, cone-shaped rock formations were formed through erosion.

This rocky region is also famed for its unique underground cities and cave dwellings. Carved into the soft rock, these caves were home to the region’s inhabitants for centuries. Aside from homes, these caves also featured churches and storage facilities. Today, some of these caves are luxury hotels. Meanwhile, the skies around Cappadocia are famous for the hot air balloon tours that take off daily.

  • Schedule a Balloon Ride: Book a hot air balloon ride with a reputable company like Butterfly Balloons. Aim for a sunrise flight for stunning views.
  • Visit Derinkuyu Underground City: Tour Derinkuyu Underground City to experience ancient life underground. Check for guided tours to enhance your visit.

Read also: Hidden Gems in Europe

Saturnia Hot Springs, Italy

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Saturnia Hot Springs, Italy
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Despite their impressive natural beauty, inviting temperatures, and vibrant color, Saturnia Hot Springs in Tuscany, Italy, is nowhere near as famous as artificial thermal pools like the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. Surrounded by idyllic countryside and open 24 hours a day, these volcanic pools are beautiful.

The perfect place to relax, the volcano-powered pools offer delightful 98.6°F

(37°C) temperatures, a relaxed atmosphere, and gorgeous views of Tuscany’s landscape. Just a two-hour drive from Rome and free to use, there is no reason not to visit this fascinating place, even just to take a quick photograph.

  • Plan for a Relaxing Day: Bring a towel and swimsuit to fully enjoy the warm waters. The springs are open 24 hours, so you can visit at your convenience.
  • Explore Nearby Saturnia: After your soak, visit the nearby town of Saturnia. Enjoy local cafes and explore the charming streets.

Read also: Underrated European Cities

Meteora, Greece

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Meteora, Greece
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Upon first glance, you’d be mistaken for thinking the monastery-topped sandstone columns of Meteora in Greece aren’t in Tibet or Nepal. Found in the foothills of the Pindus Mountains in Thessaly, northwestern Greece, Meteora is a towing rock formation that’s home to one of the largest steeply built Eastern Orthodox monasteries in the world.

Second only to Mount Athos, this breathtaking place was once home to 24 16th-century monasteries. However, monks started climbing the rocky columns in the 10th century to avoid Ottoman invaders. Unfortunately, only six monasteries now remain. The main monastery is a masterpiece of architecture surrounded by stunning views of the Trikala region. You can visit the monastery on a tour!

  • Visit the Great Meteoron Monastery: Start with the Great Meteoron, the largest and most famous monastery. Check for entry fees and dress codes before visiting.
  • Stay in Kalambaka: Book accommodation in the nearby town of Kalambaka. Enjoy local Greek cuisine and explore the town’s shops and cafes.

Read also: European Cities With Stunning Architecture

Fairy Glen, Scotland

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Fairy Glen, Scotland
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Local legends have linked the Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye in Scotland to mythical creatures for centuries. So much so the area was used as a filming location for a fantasy film called Stardust. Hidden in the hills of Uig, the Fairy Glen’s enchanting geographical formations were formed over 100,000 years ago by post-Glacier landslides.

These landslides created a miniature world perfect for folk tales about fairies. To add to the mystery and charm of the area, locals and tourists alike have laid rocks and stones down in the glen for good luck. The rocks have been placed to create spirals in the ground.

  • Look for Stone Spirals: Discover the stone spirals created by visitors. Feel free to add a stone for good luck, but avoid disturbing existing formations.
  • Visit Nearby Uig: After exploring the glen, stop by the nearby village of Uig. Enjoy local cafes and learn about the area’s history.

Read also: Weekend Getaways in Europe

Devil’s Bridge, Germany

Surreal Places You Won't Believe Are in Europe Devil’s Bridge, Germany
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Devil’s Bridge is an idyllic spot in Kromlauer Park, Saxony, Germany. It’s a jaw-dropping bridge made from various local stones. Commissioned in 1860, the bridge brilliantly reflects in the water to create a full circle.

The bridge’s impressive design and reflection, combined with the vibrant forest surrounding it, are breathtaking. If you visit in autumn, the red, orange, and yellow trees around the bridge help create a stunning scene perfect for landscape photography. Interestingly, the bridge is named after a local legend claiming Satan constructed it. It’s believed something so perfect could only be the work of greater forces.

  • Use the Viewing Platform: Head to the designated viewing platform for the best angle of the bridge’s circular reflection. It’s the ideal spot for photos.
  • Bring Binoculars: Pack binoculars to observe local wildlife in the park. The area is home to various bird species and small animals.

Read also: Cool Destinations in Europe in August

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