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When you’re travelling around Europe, you’d be amiss to not explore some of the continent’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. There’s so many wonderful gardens in Europe that all offer something unique to visitors, allowing you to be enthralled by the pure sights that you’ll see. It’s much better than travelling through the busy cities where you won’t be able to take in what’s around you.
This guide will explore the best European gardens that you need to visit during your travels, as you learn more about the culture of the area and how the designs came to life. It’s your chance to expand your mind and horizons, so continue reading to find out where your next European destination should be.
European Gardens to Explore
Boboli Gardens, Florence
Located behind the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens are among the most famous Italian Renaissance gardens. They have fascinating geometric box hedges throughout that are completely unique from other gardens, giving you the chance to capture some cool photographs. The Buontalenti Grotto is a masterpiece of art and architecture designed to resemble a natural cave, decorated with sponges, shells, stalactites and frescoes. The Fountain of Neptune and the Lemon House are also worth visiting while you’re there, with the best time to go being for a spring day out.
RHS Garden Bridgewater, Worsley
Close to Manchester, Worsley is one of the best UK Northern destinations and surprisingly has one of the most wonderful gardens to visit in the country. It’s one of the Royal Horticultural Society’s newest gardens, with the 11-acre Weston Walled Garden, the Paradise Garden and the Community Wellbeing Garden all offering something different from each other. This gives you several unique experiences as you walk around the facility. It offers a mix of modern design and historic restoration, which will appeal to a large range of people. The best time to visit RHS Garden Bridgewater is spring for daffodils and tulips, or late summer/early autumn for vibrant and autumnal colours.
Generalife, Granada
Filled with rich history, the Generalife Gardens in Granada was the summer palace for the Nasrid rulers of the Alhambra. This makes it a UNESCO World Heritage site due to the sheer amount of history that’s held within the space. Make sure to visit the Patio de la Acequia (Court of the Long Pond), Water Staircase (Escalera del Agua) and intimate courtyards with fountains, which makes for the perfect date location with your other half. You’ll need to purchase tickets months in advance, as they sell out fast due to how popular the gardens are throughout the year. The spring time is when the jasmine and roses are in full bloom, so we recommend that time of year.
Torre Bellesguard, Barcelona
A hidden gem designed by Antoni Gaudí and built using plant hire technology, it features gardens that blend Neo-Gothic architecture with Mediterranean planting. The Torre Bellesguard in Barcelona is a beautiful garden that must be visited while you’re in the city. The structure itself is a mix of castle and church, surrounded by expansive gardens that offer a break from the city, which features native flora that are hard to find anywhere else. The garden provides the best vantage point for viewing the exterior, which was designed to look like a dragon overlooking the city.
Mainau Island, Lake Constance
A 45-hectare flower island known for its Mediterranean flair, blooming year-round has become one of the most must-see places in all of Europe. This is the Mainau Island in Germany, positioned wonderfully on Lake Constance. It has a massive Butterfly House, 150-year-old tree collection, Italianate water staircase and Baroque castle. All of these give you plenty to see on a day out, making it perfect to visit with family or friends. Arrive early or on weekdays to avoid crowds, if you’re looking for a quieter trip.
Villa d’Este, Tivoli
Located just outside Rome in Tivoli, the Villa d’Este is a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage site and a true masterpiece of Italian Renaissance design. Renowned for its breathtaking terraced gardens designed by architect Pirro Ligorio, the estate is most famous for its intricate and innovative water features. Visitors are drawn to iconic landmarks like the Hundred Fountains and the Fountain of the Organ, which uses water pressure to create music. This spectacular blend of engineering and artistry remains one of the most influential examples of garden design in European history.
Brera Botanical Garden, Milan
Tucked away behind the Brera Academy of Fine Arts, the Brera Botanical Garden is perfectly positioned in the middle of busy Milan to give you a break from the hustle and bustle. This hidden oasis offers a peaceful break, featuring ancient trees and a diverse collection of plant life. It is the perfect spot for anyone looking to recharge in nature without leaving the city center. With Milan often being a destination for couples, this garden will give you one of the most serene experiences of your trip.
