In Ireland, we are very fortunate to have Europe right on our doorstep. With Ryanair and Aer Lingus sales announced every second week, it's never been easier to explore Europe and encourage our wanderlust. With a broad scope of potential destinations, it can be hard to narrow down the next place to visit. To help the travel experts Lonely Planet have revealed their list of top European destinations. Here are Lonely Planet's best places to visit in Europe:
1. High Tatras, Slovakia
Topping the list is the Slovakian mountain range High Tatras. The scenic landscape of High Tatras is described as having a 'lofty realm of crooked peaks and plunging waterfalls where snow willow blankets the ground and fearsome beasts patrol the forests'. It's easy to see why this destination has topped the list.
2. Madrid, Spain
Madrid in central Spain is a top European destination and number two on the Lonely Planet list. Madrid's strip of standing-only tapas spots and minimalist cocktail joints is earning a reputation as one of Europe's coolest nighttime streets.
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3. The Arctic Coast Way, Iceland
The Arctic Coast way covers 900 km along the north coast of Iceland. Iceland has a reputation for its rugged, unspoilt landscapes. The Arctic Coast way has "thunderous waterfalls, colossal glaciers, steaming fumaroles – and endless opportunities for snow sports, wildlife watching and wilderness adventures". One for the bucket list.
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4. Hercegovina, Bosnia and Hercegovina
Lonely Planet describes Hercegovina, Bosnia and Hercegovina as a"picture-perfect region". The holidaying bible recommends doing the CIRO cycling trail, a former railway line that threads through the countryside from Mostar to Dubrovnik.
5. Bari, Italy
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Flying the flag for Italy on the list is Bari, a port city on the Adriatic Sea. Directly facing Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bari is a reinvigorated old with family-run eateries full of delicious authentic Italian food.
6. Shetland, Scotland
Another one on the list that is famed for its rugged and unspoilt countryside is Shetland. Lonely Planet credit Shetland with 'awesome coastal trails, wicked wildlife watching and fabled fish and chip shops, plus a stiff dram of whisky or two courtesy of one of the proud, friendly locals.'
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7. Lyon, France
The French city is often overshadowed by Paris but is described as having a lot of the same winning traits like beautiful sites, amazing food and strong culture. Lonely Planet also praises Lyon's efforts to make tourism accessible and sustainable.
8. Liechtenstein
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If you enjoy hiking holidays Liechtenstein is the destination for you. The Liechtenstein Trail is a scenic 75km hiking path that twists over peak and pasture on a route that takes in all 11 municipalities.
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In my spare time, I shoot postcards for the Liechtenstein tourism board ??
9. Vevey, Switzerland
At least one city in Switzerland features in every top destination list. In at number nine is Verey, the Swiss town on Lake Geneva. Take your picture beside the "Fork of Vevey, an 8-metre-tall fork. Very random.
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10. Istria, Croatia
Finally, at number ten is Istria, the largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea. Croatia has become a top tourist destination in recent years, which means in cities like Dubrovnik and Split at peak season you're battling with droves of tourists. Istria is described as the perfect place to indulge in gourmet food and wine and enjoy gorgeous beaches and ancient history.
