Discover some of Europe’s lesser-known but incredibly stunning destinations as portrayed by Ryan Shirley in his video, “Top 100 Places To Visit In Europe.” With nearly an hour of breathtaking visuals, you’ll journey through medieval cities, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural sites that celebrate the continent’s unparalleled beauty. Ryan Shirley shares his favorite spots, offering a curated list of 100 varied destinations that he has explored over many years of travel.
From the serene meadows of Seceda and Alpe di Siusi in Italy to the dramatic cliffs of Norway’s Lysebotn and Pulpit Rock, each highlighted timestamp in the video showcases a unique facet of Europe’s charm. Whether it’s the striking fjords of Iceland or the iconic cityscapes of Paris, this guide proves to be an invaluable resource for anyone looking to uncover Europe’s best-kept secrets and must-see places.
Creator and Content Overview
Creator: Ryan Shirley
Ryan Shirley, an avid traveler and content creator, has spent several years exploring Europe’s varied landscapes and cultures. His experiences culminate in his comprehensive travel video, “Top 100 Places To Visit In Europe,” showcasing his favorite destinations across the continent. Ryan’s passion for travel and knack for storytelling make this video both engaging and informative.
Video Title: Top 100 Places To Visit In Europe
The video titled “Top 100 Places To Visit In Europe” is a meticulous compilation of Ryan’s best travel spots across Europe. Over the years, Ryan has curated this list, aiming to inspire and guide fellow travel enthusiasts by sharing his personal favorite destinations from various European countries.
Content: Showcasing Ryan’s favorite places in Europe, compiled after years of traveling
In this video, Ryan shares his personal recommendations for the top 100 travel destinations in Europe. These locations are a mix of medieval cities, stunning natural landscapes, and culturally rich sites, each chosen based on his own travel experiences and insights.
Key Highlights
Video Duration: Approximately 51 minutes
The video runs for approximately 51 minutes, providing a detailed and immersive look into each of the 100 destinations. Despite the substantial length, Ryan’s engaging style ensures that the content remains captivating throughout.
Main Themes: Medieval cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural sites across Europe
The video is structured around three main themes: medieval cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural heritage sites. Each theme highlights the historical depth, natural beauty, and cultural richness of Europe, making it an ultimate guide for any traveler planning a European adventure.
Locations Covered: 100 varied destinations across Europe
Ryan covers a vast array of 100 destinations spread across Europe. Each location is distinct and serves to showcase the continent’s diversity, from the rugged cliffs of the Faroe Islands to the artistic streets of Prague.
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Detailed Timestamps and Notable Places
Seceda & Alpe di Siusi
Starting his journey in the Dolomites of Northern Italy, Ryan introduces Seceda and Alpe di Siusi. These locations are renowned for their scenic green slopes and jagged alpine terrains. The natural beauty here is breathtaking, offering excellent hiking trails and panoramic views.
Faroe Islands
Next, Ryan takes you to the Faroe Islands, a group of isles known for their dramatic landscapes. Highlights include the Mulla Fusor waterfall and the breathtaking Dragoneer sea stacks that emerge majestically from the ocean.
Positano, Italy
Positano on the Amalfi Coast is another gem featured in Ryan’s video. This charming village is known for its colorful cliffside villas and rich history. It’s a perfect blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
Valle Verzasca, Switzerland
Valle Verzasca in Switzerland is famous for its crystal-clear river and the iconic medieval bridge that crosses it. This spot is ideal for a tranquil retreat amid nature.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Comprised of five picturesque seaside villages, Cinque Terre offers a glimpse into medieval Italy. The colorful houses perched on rugged cliffs make for stunning vistas and photo opportunities.
Jurassic Coast, UK
Ryan then showcases the Jurassic Coast in the UK, notable for its prehistoric fossils and dramatic sea stacks like the famous Old Harry Rocks. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Mont Saint Michel, French Riviera & Monaco
In France, Mont Saint Michel stands out with its iconic island monastery. The video also tours the glamorous French Riviera and the opulent microstate of Monaco, renowned for its luxury lifestyle.
Lysebotn, Pulpit Rock & Trolltunga, Norway
Norway’s natural wonders are highlighted through Lysebotn’s fjords, the dramatic Pulpit Rock, and the challenging Trolltunga hike. These locations offer some of the most scenic and adventurous experiences in Europe.
Blue Lagoon, Reynisfjara, Skogafoss, Stokkness, Iceland
Iceland features prominently in Ryan’s list with highlights including the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters, the black sands of Reynisfjara beach, the majestic Skogafoss waterfall, and the stunning landscapes of Stokkness.
Zakynthos & Milos, Greece
Greek islands like Zakynthos and Milos are known for their pristine waters and unique geological formations. Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos and the surreal Kleftiko Caves in Milos are particularly noted for their beauty.
St. Petersburg, Russia
St. Petersburg, with its historic canals and impressive landmarks such as the Peter and Paul Fortress, is a must-see for anyone interested in Russia’s cultural and architectural heritage.
Riga, Latvia
In Latvia, Ryan takes you to Riga, a city rich in medieval history and architecture. Notable buildings include the House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter’s Church, reflecting centuries of architectural evolution.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and historical significance make it a top destination. Key attractions include the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and Prague Castle.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals and narrow houses that line the waterways. As a significant trading port in the 17th century, it has a rich history that complements its modern, vibrant lifestyle.
Budapest, Hungary
The photogenic city of Budapest straddles the Danube River and features landmarks like the Chain Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and soothing thermal baths.
Dubrovnik, Pula, & Plitvice National Park, Croatia
Croatia’s historical and natural sites, including the medieval walled city of Dubrovnik, the Roman amphitheater of Pula, and the stunning Plitvice National Park, are beautifully showcased in this segment.
Ljubljana, Lake Bled, & River Soca, Slovenia
Ljubljana’s charm lies in its quaint beauty and Ljubljana Castle. Nearby, the emerald waters of Lake Bled and the scenic Soča River offer serene and picturesque landscapes.
Lisbon, Ursa Beach, Algarve Coast, Portugal
Portugal’s oldest city, Lisbon, is rich in culture and history, with landmarks like Sanctuary of Christ the King and Belém Tower. The Algarve Coast is famed for its stunning sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and the iconic Ponte da Piedade.
Bavarian Alps, Berchtesgaden, & Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
The Bavarian Alps and the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle are epitomized in Ryan’s journey through Germany. The scenic beauty of Berchtesgaden National Park is also a highlight.
Tuscany, Florence, & San Gimignano, Italy
The Tuscan landscape, enriched with history and art, includes Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, and San Gimignano, noted for its medieval towers.
Lake Como & Venice, Italy
Italy’s Lake Como is famous for its luxurious villas and stunning lakeside views. Venice, with its unique canal systems and historic grandeur, is another must-visit.
Edinburgh & Isle of Skye, Scotland
In Scotland, Edinburgh offers medieval charm with its Castle, while the Isle of Skye captivates with fairy-tale landscapes such as the Old Man of Storr and Fairy Pools.
Dublin, Dark Hedges, & Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Ireland’s capital, Dublin, is known for its gardens and architecture. The nearby Dark Hedges and Cliffs of Moher provide dramatic and scenic countryside views.
Warsaw, Krakow, & Auschwitz Memorial, Poland
Poland’s historical depth is represented through the capital Warsaw, the cultural city of Krakow, and the poignant Auschwitz Memorial.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius is noted for its elegant mix of modern and baroque architecture, exemplified by sights like Trakai Island Castle.
Vienna & Hallstatt, Austria
Austria’s Vienna is famous for its music and palaces like Schönbrunn. The picturesque Hallstatt adds to the country’s allure with its alpine beauty.
Paris, Etretat, & French Alps, France
Paris boasts panoramic city views, the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, and the grandeur of Versailles. Étretat offers stunning white cliffs, while the French Alps are home to the majestic Mont Blanc.
Grindelwald & Appenzell, Switzerland
Grindelwald provides scenic views of Mount Eiger and memorable hikes, while Appenzell’s jagged mountains resemble landscapes straight out of a fantasy.
Zermatt & Jungfraujoch, Switzerland
In Zermatt, the Matterhorn is an iconic peak, while Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe,” offers glacier tunnels and observatories.
Helsinki & Lapland, Finland
Helsinki is celebrated for its happiness and liberal culture, whereas Lapland is the ideal place to witness the northern lights and enjoy winter wonderlands.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is renowned for its island layout and historical architecture, maintaining affordability and beauty.
Bruges, Belgium
The medieval city of Bruges features a historic market square and quaint canals, making it a charming travel destination.
Rothenburg, Germany
Rothenburg is a well-preserved medieval town, often seen as inspiration for Disney movies due to its picturesque architecture.
London, Stonehenge, & Wales, UK
London’s iconic sites such as Big Ben and the Tower of London are must-sees, while Stonehenge offers historical mystery and Wales boasts sites like Snowdonia National Park.
Lucerne & Bern, Switzerland
Lucerne features medieval architecture and a picturesque lake. Bern, the Swiss capital, has a rich history and notable landmarks including the Cathedral of Bern.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen started as a Viking village and evolved into a cultural hub. It is famous for its canal houses and modern attractions like the Copenhagen Opera House.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, a medieval trading hub on the Baltic coast, features well-preserved architecture seen in films like “Tenet.”
Kotor, Sveti Stefan, Durdevica Tara Bridge, Montenegro
Kotor’s medieval charm, Sveti Stefan’s luxury resorts, and the impressive Durdevica Tara Bridge make Montenegro uniquely appealing.
Mostar & Kravica Waterfall, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Mostar is known for its reconstructed Old Bridge, while the Kravica Waterfalls offer picturesque and swimmable cascades.
Meteora, Mount Olympus, & Athens, Greece
Meteora’s monasteries and Mount Olympus’s hiking trails, along with the ancient city of Athens, provide a comprehensive Greek experience.
Sofia, Varna, & Belogradchik Fortress, Bulgaria
Sofia’s Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the coastal city of Varna, and the historic Belogradchik Fortress highlight Bulgaria’s rich heritage.
Transylvania, Bran Castle, & Transfagarasan Road, Romania
Romania’s Transylvania castles, like Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), and the dramatic Transfagarasan Road offer gothic and adventurous appeal.
Lofoten, Saltstraumen, Atlantic Road & Trollstigen, Norway
The Lofoten Islands, Saltstraumen’s tidal currents, the Atlantic Road’s engineering feats, and the serpentine Trollstigen make Norway a land of extremes.
Geirangerfjord & Svalbard, Norway
Norway’s Geirangerfjord is renowned for its fjord landscapes and waterfalls, while Svalbard offers polar adventures and the Global Seed Vault.
Moscow & Mount Elbrus, Russia
Moscow, with its iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral and Kremlin, alongside Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, showcase Russia’s vastness and history.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia and Galata Tower reflect its historical significance as a transcontinental city bridging Europe and Asia.
Barcelona, Ibiza, & Canary Islands, Spain
Spain features the architectural marvels of Barcelona, Ibiza’s vibrant nightlife, and the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands.
Azores & Madeira, Portugal
Portugal’s Azores have volcanic craters and Mount Pico, while Madeira boasts lush landscapes and the peak of Pico Ruivo.
Sardinia, Rome, & San Marino
Italy’s Sardinia is known for its coastlines, Rome for its ancient ruins, and San Marino for its historical fortresses.
Senja, Norway
Senja is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes and Northern Lights viewing spots, making it a perfect end to a European adventure.
Additional Resources by Ryan Shirley
Other travel videos on various top 10 destinations
Ryan has an extensive collection of travel videos focusing on various top 10 destinations around the world, providing further inspiration for travelers.
Secondary Channel: @scenicrelaxationfilms
For those who enjoy relaxing and scenic content, Ryan runs a secondary channel (@scenicrelaxationfilms) filled with tranquil videos showcasing beautiful landscapes.
Platforms: Instagram & TikTok (@shirley.films)
You can follow Ryan for more frequent travel updates and stunning photography on Instagram and TikTok under the handle @shirley.films.
Music: Tracks by Ehrling
The video’s background music features tracks by Ehrling, adding a melodious complement to the visually stunning content.
Overall Impression
Europe is portrayed as an exceptionally beautiful continent with diverse attractions spanning from natural wonders to historical cities
Ryan Shirley eloquently portrays Europe as a continent brimming with beauty and diversity. His video highlights the myriad of attractions, ranging from natural wonders to historically rich cities, demonstrating Europe’s unique allure.
The video serves as a comprehensive guide for travel enthusiasts looking to explore Europe
This video serves as an excellent guide for travel enthusiasts planning to explore Europe. It offers comprehensive insights into varied destinations, making it an invaluable resource for any prospective traveler.
Europe is highlighted as the favorite place due to its beautiful landscapes and medieval cities
Ryan’s evident fondness for Europe shines through as he emphasizes its beautiful landscapes and medieval cities, which are among his favorite travel destinations worldwide.
The video includes timestamps for easy navigation to specific locations
The inclusion of timestamps allows viewers to easily navigate to specific locations, making the video user-friendly and highly practical for travel planning.
Notable Destinations
Ceceda, Dolomites, Northern Italy: Noted for its stunning green slopes and jagged mountain ridges
Ceceda in the Dolomites of Northern Italy is distinguished by its lush green slopes and jagged mountain ridges. This location is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate breathtaking alpine scenery.
Alpe di Siusi, Italy: Largest high alpine meadow in Europe
Alpe di Siusi, the largest high alpine meadow in Europe, offers panoramic views and an ideal setting for leisurely hikes and relaxation amid nature.
Faroe Islands: Known for dramatic landscapes, including the Mulla Fusor waterfall and Dragoneer sea stacks
The Faroe Islands are celebrated for their striking landscapes, including notable features like the Mulla Fusor waterfall and the iconic Dragoneer sea stacks that create dramatic coastal scenery.
Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy: Charming village with colorful villas and historical background
Positano is a charming village on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, known for its vibrant, colorful villas and rich historical background. It offers a perfect mix of cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
Valle Verzasca, Switzerland: Famous for clear river water and medieval bridge
Valle Verzasca in Switzerland is famed for its exceptionally clear river water and the picturesque medieval bridge that spans it, making it a serene and beautiful spot.
Cinque Terre, Italy: Consists of five seaside villages with medieval origins
Cinque Terre, a series of five seaside villages with medieval origins, offers unique and colorful views. Each village clings to the rugged cliff faces, offering unparalleled vistas and a peek into Italy’s past.
Jurassic Coast, England: Known for fossils and sea stacks like Old Harry Rocks
Jurassic Coast is an English treasure, famous for prehistoric fossils and dramatic sea stacks, including the renowned Old Harry Rocks. It’s a fascinating destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike.
Mont Saint-Michel, France: Historic island with a monastery and picturesque views
Mont Saint-Michel is an iconic French island known for its historic monastery and stunning panoramic views. It’s a must-see location for its dramatic scenery and rich heritage.
French Riviera, France: Includes coastal towns and luxurious Monaco
The French Riviera, including the opulent Monaco, is synonymous with luxury and picturesque coastal towns. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience exquisite charm and elegance.
Lysebotn and Pulpit Rock, Norway: Scenic fjords and dramatic cliffs
Lysebotn and Pulpit Rock in Norway are known for their breathtaking fjords and dramatic cliffs, offering some of the most striking natural scenery in Europe.
Iceland: Highlights include Blue Lagoon, black sand beaches, and scenic waterfalls
Iceland’s attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, Reynisfjara’s black sand beaches, and various scenic waterfalls, like Skogafoss, make it a destination of otherworldly beauty and natural wonders.
Zakynthos, Greece: Known for Shipwreck Beach and clear blue waters
Zakynthos in Greece is known for its iconic Shipwreck Beach, with clear blue waters that create a picturesque and inviting landscape perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Milos, Greece: Features unique rock formations like Kleftiko Caves and Sarakiniko Beach
Milos features unique geological formations, including the Kleftiko Caves and the stunningly white Sarakiniko Beach, offering some of the most unique seaside views in Greece.
Saint Petersburg, Russia: Historic city with canals and landmarks like the Peter and Paul Fortress
Saint Petersburg is a historic Russian city celebrated for its intricate canal system and notable landmarks such as the Peter and Paul Fortress, reflecting its rich cultural backdrop.
Individual Highlights: Major Cities and Regions
St. Petersburg, Russia: Visit Palace Square and the city’s gardens
In St. Petersburg, Palace Square is a key attraction, hosting events and surrounded by beautiful architecture. The city’s gardens offer tranquil retreats amid urban beauty.
Riga, Latvia: Stunning medieval architecture, founded in 1201. Famous buildings: House of the Blackheads, Saint Peter’s Church
Riga is brimming with medieval architecture, established in 1201. Landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter’s Church are testament to its rich, historical architecture.
Prague, Czech Republic: Political, cultural, and economic center of Europe. Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Prague Castle
Prague stands as a political, cultural, and economic nucleus of Europe, with attractions like the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and Prague Castle drawing numerous visitors.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Known for its canal system and narrow houses. Was a major trading port in the 17th century
Amsterdam’s renowned canal system and narrow houses reflect its history as a major 17th-century trading port. The city’s vibrant culture harmonizes with its historical charm.
Budapest, Hungary: Photogenic city with the Danube River. Attractions: Chain Bridge, Hungarian Parliament Building, thermal baths
Budapest, straddling the Danube River, is a city of beauty and history. Highlights include the Chain Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and soothing thermal baths.
Dubrovnik, Pula, & Plitvice National Park, Croatia
Croatia’s Dubrovnik offers medieval walls and has served as a filming location for popular series like “Game of Thrones.” Pula’s Roman amphitheater and the natural beauty of Plitvice National Park further add to Croatia’s allure.
Ljubljana, Slovenia: Small but beautiful, Ljubljana Castle. Nearby: Lake Bled, Soča River
Ljubljana may be small, but its beauty is unparalleled, with Ljubljana Castle offering panoramic city views. Nearby, the emerald Lake Bled and the serene Soča River are natural highlights.