Croatia ranks No.1 on best national parks in Europe list

Plitvice Lakes National Park

The allure of national parks is growing stronger each year, drawing millions of visitors who seek the serenity and beauty these natural havens offer. 

In Europe, a diverse selection of breathtaking national parks provides excellent alternatives to the often crowded beach resorts and bustling cities.

Europeanbestdestinations.com has curated a list of the ten best national parks in Europe, highlighting the unique charm and natural wonders each park has to offer.

Topping the list is Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, renowned for its stunning waterfalls. Nestled between the Mala Kapela mountain range to the west and northwest and the Lička Plješivica mountain range to the southeast, Plitvice Lakes is a paradise for nature lovers.

“Due to its specific geology, geomorphology and hydrology it truly is one of the most impressive karst entities in the world,” europeanbestdestinations.com writes. 

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Following closely are the Saxon Switzerland National Park, the Belluno Dolomites in Italy, and the wild Taiga in Finland. 

Croatia home to 8 amazing national parks

The Taiga is particularly notable for its rich wildlife, which includes species like brown bears and wolves that were once thought to be lost from Europe forever. Visitors lucky enough to spot these magnificent creatures can witness a rare glimpse of Europe’s natural heritage.

Saxon Switzerland National Park

Rounding out the top five is Ecrins National Park in France. This park has been honored as the “European Park of the Mountain” by the Council of Europe, a testament to its stunning alpine landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Belluno Dolomites

You can see the full list here.