The 9 best destinations in Europe for wine lovers

Are you an amateur of wines and want to taste the best of those in Europe during a road trip? So here are the 9 best destinations for wine lovers!

Europe is known for many things, whether for its monuments to visit, its magnificent Mediterranean beaches or its largest cities. Nevertheless, the continent is also known for its beautiful vineyards and the excellent wines that are produced.

Each wine is different and comes from a region that gives it its richness and peculiarity. But moreover, a wine is also a testimony of the history and culture of the region from which it comes. For wine lovers, nothing better than making a trip across Europe and tasting the best wines. Here are the 9 best destinations in Europe for wine lovers!

1. Bordeaux, France

Probably one of the most famous wine lovers destinations, the Bordeaux region is a must! Bordeaux vineyards produce some of the best wines in the world, making a world reference. The production is varied, with almost 80% of it dedicated to red wines.

In this popular destination for wine lovers, you will find Pauillac and Pomerol for reds. As for white and liquorous wines, one can find the Cadillac, the Sauternes or the Pessac-Léognan. You can taste them during visits to the vineyards, but also tastings in the Bordeaux wineries.

Note that one of the places to visit in the region is the vineyards surrounding Saint-Émilion. It is a small medieval village less than an hour from the city of Bordeaux. The frame is beautiful and perfectly suited for a romantic journey. In this village you will find more than 5,500 hectares of vineyards. These have been listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999.

2. Champagne-Ardenne, France

Always in France, towards Champagne-Ardenne! This region is known worldwide for its high number of vineyards. They cover more than 30,000 hectares, belonging to thousands of farmers and wine growers. The Champagne-Ardenne cellars count by hundreds, and you can visit them during your stay!

With regard to production, this region is known for several names, three of which stand out. The first is of course Champagne! This one can be white or rosé, and you can taste some of the best during tastings.

There is also the Rosé des Riceys, a rosé wine from Pinot Noir vine. This is produced in the village of Riceys. Finally, it is also possible to note in the must-see the Champagne Coteaux. These are white, red and rosé wines, but also rich in flavors. They are produced from grapes from vines grown throughout the territory.

3. Catalonia, Spain

Spain has a favourable climate for the cultivation of vineyards, especially in Catalonia. It is therefore no wonder to find this region among the best destinations for wine lovers. Moreover, on its own, Catalonia has 12 appellations of origin. This is mainly due to its wide geographical diversity. You will find various white, red and rosé wines. These include Cava, Penedès or Coster del Sègre. Each variety has its own peculiarities and tastes reflecting their place of culture.

You can therefore visit the Catalan vineyards and wine cellars during your stay. Of course, you can also visit the largest cities in the region and their monuments. Spend in particular Barcelona , Terrassa or Blanes and enjoy the beaches, but also the mountain during your stay!

4. Douro Valley, Portugal

Among the destinations for wine lovers, the Douro valley stands out! It is also known as Bordeaux or Catalonia. The wines that come from the vineyards of this region are of course Porto, but also table wines. The vineyards of the Douro valley extend on the hills surrounding Porto . You can visit them, but also enjoy the breathtaking landscapes that the region offers!

Indeed, it is a place rich in colors and an incredible beauty! It is also worth the name of the enchanted Valley and being classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Enjoy your stay to discover one of the most beautiful places in Portugal!

5. Tuscany, Italy

Often more known for its historical and artistic heritage, Tuscany is one of the best destinations for wine lovers! Here you will find vineyards hidden at the end of the Tuscan countryside, away from the eyes. The region has several appellations of controlled origin, such as Chianti or Carmignano. You can taste the wines during the different tours organized in the region of Tuscany!

You can also visit some of the most beautiful ancient monuments of Italy during your stay. Visit Florence Cathedral and the Tower of Pisa or walk in the paved streets of the most beautiful cities. You will also have the opportunity to see a unique fauna and flora, not found in other European countries!

7. SantoriniGreece

Cultivated on the most beautiful island of Europe, Santorini vineyards produce wonderful wines! You will find some very sweet white wines and delicious sweet dessert wines! These are produced in some of the oldest vineyards throughout Europe. The flavour of wines is authentic and reflects the maritime environment of Santorini. You can experience it yourself during tastings.

You will have the opportunity to join guided tours such as the Santorini Wine Adventure Tour . This will allow you to visit the vineyards and to have further explanations on the vinification process. Of course, you can also taste the best wines of the island’s cellars! You will be next to the most experienced Greek oenologists of Santorini. These will guide you throughout the tasting.

Finally, it would be a shame not to enjoy the island and its beautiful beaches during your stay. Travel to the four corners of Santorini and discover beautiful landscapes, dotted with impressive vineyards!

8. Istria, Croatia

Among the best destinations for wine lovers in Europe, Istria is one of the most interesting! Although little known, it is an exemplary place where the best vines are cultivated at more than 1,390 meters above sea level. There, manual and careful work is privileged, and wines from the vineyards are of high quality.

In Istria you will find varied and very tasteful red wines. They come from vines growing in red lands. These are ideal for the cultivation of vines for the transformation into red wine. They give a wine to the corsé yet structured taste. The white wines are made from grapes grown on flysch. They are therefore more mellow and fresh than most other productions in Europe.

Istria is also an ancient city. You will find many monuments to visit during your stay on site. In particular, you can visit the Pula Amphitheatre or the Porec Euphrasian Basilica. Of course, don’t forget to walk in the countryside and enjoy a wonderful view of the different vineyards of Istria!

9. Eger, Hungary

Perhaps one of the least known destinations, Eger is the ideal place to enjoy the best Hungarian wines. This region is a little out of time, seeming stuck in the 1980s. Let yourself be carried in the beautiful landscapes of the region, between typical constructions of Hungary and vineyards to lose sight!

Here you will find the most famous wine route in Hungary: The Valley of the Beautiful Lady ! It is not known anywhere in the country, but it remains a must. You can taste delicious wines in this region. Visit one of the 200 wine cellars in Istria to taste them during the tasting session. You can also find vintage or iconic wines from the region. For example, you can discover the Egri Bikaver, a red rich in aroma, or the Egri Csillag, a very light wine.