Top 10 Best European Countries

The Top Ten

Croatia

Croatia, officially the Republic of Croatia, gained independence in 1991 and is located at the crossroads of Central Europe, Southeast Europe, and the Mediterranean. Its capital city is Zagreb, and it is a member of the European Union and NATO. Croatia was formerly part of Yugoslavia during the Cold... read more

It's nice not having a cop on your back everywhere. The people are nice, and the cities are beautiful. It's just amazing how you get so much freedom.
France

France, officially the French Republic, is a sovereign state comprising territory in Western Europe and several overseas regions and territories. The European part of France, called metropolitan France, extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea, and from the Rhine to... read more

Such a fascinating and diverse country. Do not hesitate to go outside Paris and the French Riviera to explore the countryside.
The food is so varied and delicious. Each region has its own architecture, dishes, traditions, culture, and accents.
Also, there are the famous French Polynesia and many other islands that make France one of the most fabulous countries to visit. France has incredible diversity and biodiversity. Imagine that part of the Amazon is a French department! We visited, and it was more than wonderful.
Most people do not know about these hidden, lesser-known parts of France. Perhaps it's better that way to preserve such treasures.
Germany

Germany was formally united in 1871 under the initiative of Bismarck, with King Wilhelm of Prussia as emperor. The previous Holy Roman Empire, essentially a continuation of the empire of Charlemagne (Karl der Große), was dissolved in 1806.... read more

I am sick of all this "why is Germany on this list, it's full of Nazi descendants who must be killed" nonsense.
1. 95% of the war criminals (Nazis) are dead or have been sentenced to life imprisonment at 80+ years old.
2. The current population is not to blame for the horrible crimes committed during the Second World War, which occurred 77 years ago. People treat them poorly for things that neither they nor their parents ever did.
3. The country is beautiful, and the people are so nice. I visited Germany for five days a little over two weeks ago, and it was truly spectacular. Trust me when I say that the current Germans feel extremely guilty over things they haven't done. It was one evil man's fault - who wasn't even German - that led to those atrocities. He manipulated and blackmailed his own nation into committing crimes after he rose to power.
Germans face a lot of racism due to World War II. I am a quarter German, and whenever I reveal my background to a non-German, they make a Nazi-related remark, which is disgusting. I can't imagine how badly full-blooded Germans are treated by others.
Italy

Italy (Italian: Repubblica Italiana) is a sovereign state and unitary parliamentary republic in south-central Europe.
Italy covers an area of 301,338 km². With almost 62 million inhabitants, it's the third most populous EU member state. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Italy shares... read more

How is this not first? Purely amazing. Italy is beautiful, and I could tell when I was still on the flight from New York. When landing, I saw the beautiful snow-capped mountains and the farms closer to Rome.
When taking Trenitalia from Termini to Florence, the landscape was beautiful. But the real eye-catcher was driving along the Amalfi Coast, from Pompeii to Praiano, looking down on Sorrento and seeing the magnificent waters.
Mount Solaro on Capri was the real deal.

Italy is the best country! Very safe, with amazing food, fashion, and culture. No crimes, unlike France. It's very clean, secure, and orderly. The people are so friendly and say hello, and they have the best drivers.
France, on the other hand, is crazy. Disgusting and shameful! VIVA L'ITALIA!
England

England, previously the Kingdom of England, is a constituent country of the United Kingdom along with Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
England can trace its history as far back as the 10th century, but modern England began with the Norman Invasion of 1066. In 1535, England annexed Wales... read more

Beautiful countryside, and London is amazing! England brings so much to the world: food, music, films, and language. People are friendly. Good summers, good winters.

I've lived here all my life. The government needs to sort out a few things, but after that, we'll be up there again as one of the world's superpowers.

Best place for football, cricket, and golf. Beautiful rivers, countryside, and stunning mountain views.
Ireland

Formed as a republic in 1922 following the Irish War of Independence, Ireland is a small country with a population of roughly 5 million.

Every school day since I can remember, I've woken up, gotten dressed, and packed my bag for school. I'd walk out the door to be covered in rain and smell the cow manure from my neighbor's farm. Then, I'd get in a car and drive on a poorly made road in the middle of nowhere until I reached the city, which was half the time busy and half the time empty.
When school finished, I'd go home on the same roads, in the same rainy conditions, and do my homework. Then I'd go to bed and start the whole thing again the next day. And I absolutely love it.

Definitely the best place in the world! Although I'm English, I actually prefer Ireland. The nightlife during summertime is awesome!
Sweden

Sweden, officially the Kingdom of Sweden, is a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe.
It borders Norway to the west and Finland to the east and is connected to Denmark in the southwest by a bridge-tunnel across the Öresund. At 450,295 square kilometers (173,860 sq mi), Sweden is the third-largest... read more

Swedish people were so very nice to me and very open-minded. Swedish and Northern Italian culture are similar.

Since Turkey isn't on the list, Sweden is technically number two, but still... Kudos to Sweden.

I'm from England, but I've got to vote for Sweden because Avicii is from Sweden!
Norway

Norway, officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a sovereign and unitary monarchy in Northern Europe whose territory comprises the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula, plus the island of Jan Mayen and the archipelago of Svalbard.... read more

Norway is the best European country of all time. Its quality of life is often considered the best in the world. Both urban and rural areas are gorgeous and perfect for pictures. Norway is also wealthy and very safe.
The citizens are kind and helpful. Even the cold weather is beautiful. Cold weather is far better than hot weather. Overall, Norway is simply a wonderful and fun place to visit.

Norway is easily one of the best countries not just in Europe, but in the entire world. It's appealing from the big cities to the peaceful countryside. The food is delicious, and Norwegians are attractive and kind.
Another great quality is Norway's cleanliness. They really know how to take care of their environment. The best part of all, though, is Norway's high quality of life.
Switzerland

Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a federal republic in Europe. It consists of 26 cantons, and the city of Bern is the seat of the federal authorities.
The country is situated in Western-Central Europe and is bordered by Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the... read more

My grandmother lives there, and I visit every year. Everything is clean, the people are friendly, the economy is good, crime rates are low, and the scenery is beautiful. Switzerland has wonderful lakes, rivers, mountains, and some of the cleanest drinking water in the world. Life there is simply amazing.

Switzerland is one of the best places to live. The economy is strong, everything is clean, the people are very nice, and the sites are beautiful. The community as a whole is wonderful!

Switzerland is my overall favorite. It's beautiful, rich, and safe, with lots of bunkers in case of nuclear war, making it one of the safest countries on earth.
Spain

Spain, or the Kingdom of Spain, is a country in southwestern Europe with parts of its territory in the Atlantic Ocean and across the Mediterranean Sea.
The largest part of Spain is situated on the Iberian Peninsula. Its territory also includes the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean, the Balearic... read more

I love Spain! The cities are fantastic, there's a great healthcare system, and the quality of life is high. The people are hardworking, and the weather and natural landscapes are beautiful. The cities are also really impressive - way bigger and cooler than Finnish cities.
I also think Finland should be included in terms of quality of life. Not above Spain, but definitely on this list.

I wish I was born in Spain! The sunny weather, the great healthcare system, the mountains, and the forests are amazing. The cities are breathtaking, and the people are so open-minded and creative. I just love Spain.

The Newcomers

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Armenia

Armenia is a country in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. Located in Western Asia on the Armenian Highlands, it is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, the de facto independent Republic of Artsakh and Azerbaijan to the east, and Iran and Azerbaijan's exclave of Nakhchivan to the... read more
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Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is a constituent unit of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, located in the northeast of the island of Ireland. It shares a border to the south and west with the Republic of Ireland.

The Contenders

Belgium

Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a country in Northwestern Europe. The country is bordered by the Netherlands to the north, Germany to the east, Luxembourg to the southeast, France to the southwest, and the North Sea to the northwest. It covers an area of 30,689 km² (11,849 sq mi) and has... read more

Belgium is like a mix of the best parts of France, The Netherlands, and Germany. It has the best chocolate in the world, is full of beer lovers, and has crazy parties.

Wonderful cities, the best food, and great languages. That's Belgium, my second favorite country!

Belgium is like a mix of everything you can see in Europe! I'd love to visit it!
Iceland

Iceland is a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic Ocean and the most sparsely populated country in Europe. Its capital and largest city is Reykjavík, which (along with surrounding municipalities) is home to over 65% of the country's population. Iceland is the only part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge... read more

Iceland is one of the best countries in the world. It's rich in history, naturally diverse, and most Icelanders believe in elves! How cute!
Wales

Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Located on the island of Great Britain, it is bordered by England to the east, the Irish Sea to the north and west, and the Bristol Channel to the south.
Wales is known for its rugged coastline, mountainous national parks, and distinct Welsh... read more
Netherlands

The Netherlands, informally Holland, is a country located in northwestern Europe with overseas territories in the Caribbean. It is the largest of four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The Netherlands consists of twelve provinces and borders Germany to the east and Belgium... read more

Holland is probably the best sub-sea-level country in the world, apart from the Netherlands. Although, the Dutch might have something to say about that.

Come to the Netherlands! The people here are really friendly, nice, funny, and polite.

The Netherlands should be number one on this list because they are so awesome.
Scotland

Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom and covers the northern third of the island of Great Britain. Scotland is the most mountainous and least densely populated country in the United Kingdom. Its landscape features rugged highlands, deep lochs, and a long, irregular coastline.

What?! This country is amazing. Lovely lakes, beautiful mountains - no country is better.
Denmark

Denmark is a Nordic country in Northern Europe. It is the most populous and politically central constituent of the Kingdom of Denmark, a constitutionally unitary state that includes the autonomous territories of the Faroe Islands and Greenland in the North Atlantic Ocean. European Denmark is the southernmost... read more

Denmark is the best Scandinavian country, with the best aspects of Norway, Sweden, and Finland without all the snow. It is also the oldest country in Europe, except for San Marino.

Denmark is so beautiful, with all the coasts and old cities/buildings. The Danes are really friendly (and good looking).

Denmark is a beautiful, cozy, and almost like an adventure land. It is the best.
Portugal

Portugal (est. 1143), officially the Portuguese Republic, is a country located mostly on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is the westernmost country of mainland Europe, bordered to the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean and to the north and east by Spain. Its territory also includes... read more

Stunning landscapes, romantic walks, cities on hills - Portugal is a scenic and lovely country with friendly people and spectacular, cheap food.

More and more French people are now deciding to live in this quiet and friendly country. Portugal has a huge history, small but great.

Small, but not too small... Portugal has the right size. It is a developed country today.
Finland

Finland, officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country in Northern Europe. It shares land borders with Sweden to the northwest, Norway to the north, and Russia to the east, with the Gulf of Bothnia to the west and the Gulf of Finland across from Estonia to the south. Finland covers an area... read more

Popular for its amazing education system and maternal healthcare, Finland is truly one of the best countries in Europe.

Finland is a country that other countries should look up to.
Greece

Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, is a country in Southeast Europe. It is situated on the southern tip of the Balkans and is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Greece shares land borders with Albania to the northwest, North Macedonia and Bulgaria to the north, and Turkey... read more

How is Greece so low on the list? I've been all over Europe, and Greece amazed me more than most of the countries above it. It's such an underrated and affordable country.
I liked the food better in Greece than in France, Germany, and Italy. The history is everywhere and it's amazing. I also adore the landscape - one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

What? I'm from Sweden, and Greece is the most beautiful country in Europe. Sweden first? Good joke. Greek food is amazing, and the Greek islands and cities are incredible!
Greeks are funny and warm, and the girls are stunning. Greece should definitely be in the top 10.
Austria

Austria was originally inhabited by Celtic tribes, particularly the Hallstatt culture. It later became the Roman province of Noricum. Alaric, who would later sack Rome, is believed to have studied at a monastery near modern-day Vienna.... read more
Poland

Poland, officially the Republic of Poland, is a country in Central Europe, bordered by Germany to the west. The Czech Republic and Slovakia to the south. Ukraine and Belarus to the east. And the Baltic Sea, Kaliningrad Oblast (a Russian exclave), and Lithuania to the north. With a population of approximately... read more

Poland is the best because they have a good football/soccer team, and their government is awesome! Poland is #1. Keep it up with NATO, Poland!

Poland has beautiful women, the best vodka, and is the best place to party.

Poland has a rapidly growing economy and is simply beautiful.
Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, also called Czechia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. Historically known as Bohemia, it is bordered by Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the southeast. The Czech Republic has a hilly landscape that covers an area of 78,871... read more

As I'm from Austria and used to beautiful cities and buildings, I have to say that the Czech Republic is, for some reason, extremely underrated and even more beautiful than my home country, in my opinion!
The houses are incredibly beautiful, especially in Prague. The kind of architecture is recognizable. There are treasures to find even in smaller cities.
Visit this country! It's worth it! Hopefully, I'm moving to the Czech Republic soon.

A wondrous country (the heart of Europe) with a rich collection of countryside and castles.
Russia

Russia, or the Russian Federation (RF), is a transcontinental country spanning Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. It is the largest country in the world by area, covering over 17,125,191 square kilometres (6,612,073 sq mi), and encompassing one-eighth of Earth's inhabitable landmass.... read more

Russia is far from the strongest country in Europe! The only thing they have going for them is their atomic bombs!

France sucks. Russia should be higher.

I love Russia. It's so beautiful.
Estonia

Estonia, officially the Republic of Estonia, is a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It is bordered to the west by the Baltic Sea, to the north by the Gulf of Finland, to the east by Russia, and to the south by Latvia. Tallinn is the capital and largest city, and Estonia is a member of... read more

A country of beautiful national parks and culture-filled cities!
Malta

Malta, officially known as the Republic of Malta, is a Southern European island country consisting of an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. Its capital city is Valletta, and it is one of the world's smallest and most densely populated countries. Malta has a rich history influenced by various civilizations... read more

It should be higher than Estonia.