For those looking for a location to unwind and cool off in the summer without having to travel to crowded beach destinations, Europe’s lakes make perfect summer vacation choices. No matter what your travel objectives may be, use our list of the top lakes in Europe to help you organize a memorable trip.
1. Lake Como, Italy
One of the deepest lakes in Europe is Lake Como. It occupies position five with a depth of more than 400 meters; the top four are all in Norway. Since Roman times, the lake has drawn affluent merchants, kings, and tourists. Several Hollywood and international celebrities currently reside on its shores, along with lovely villages and renowned spas.
Water sports enthusiasts can attempt water skiing, wakeboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and even diving at Como Lake, one of Italy’s most popular lakes. Hikers and explorers can spend the entire year hiking and exploring the mountains on the shores of Lake Como because of its comparatively moderate winters.
2. Lake Geneva, Switzerland
Just on the line separating France and Switzerland is the crescent-shaped Lake Geneva, which is situated in the Alps. Lake Geneva, the greatest body of water in Switzerland, draws tourists all year long. Visitors come here for a variety of activities, such as sailing, exploring the narrow cobblestone alleys, and shopping for antiques.
3. Lake Bled, Slovenia
One of Lake Bled’s numerous charms is its bluish-green waters. The lake, which is situated in Slovenia’s Julian Mountains, is most well-known for its little island in the middle of it.
Here, the 16th-century bell tower of the historic Bled Castle towers above a cliff, providing enchanted views of the nearby tranquil waters. In the summer, a traditional “pletna” boat, resembling a gondola, can take you to the castle; in the winter, the lake is frequently frozen over.
4. Lake Hallstatt, Austria
Lake Hallstatt is one of Austria’s most beautiful waterscapes, dating back to the Ice Age. The modest, charming Alpine community that the lake is named after is opposed.
The lake is a popular location for scuba divers because of its 125-meter depth, clean waters, and diverse ecosystem. Moreover, rowing and pedal boats can be rented. Those who enjoy climbing can proceed to the nearby steep slopes of the Dachstein Karst mountains.
Around a million people visit Lake Hallstatt annually, and the months of July and August can be crowded both in the water and on the little beaches that border the shores, such as Obertraun.
5. Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
The most beautiful lake in Switzerland is Lake Lucerne, also referred to as the Lake of the Four Cantons. The finest way to experience the majesty of the snow-covered winter scenery is probably to cruise Lake Lucerne on a vintage paddle boat.
The many musical and gastronomic events that take place around the lake during the warmer months can also be enjoyed by visitors. They can also experience the skating and cycling pathways that run along the coast, go antique shopping in Lucerne town, and try the cycling and skating trails.
The 114 square kilometer lake itself is encircled by sharp peaks. Around the lake are some of the oldest settlements in Switzerland.
6. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
There are sixteen lakes in Plitvice National Park that are connected by a network of waterfalls, so if one lake isn’t enough, don’t worry. Natural dams full of moss and algae divide the lakes and combine with mountain runoff to produce a range of watercolors, including azure, green, silvery gray, and blue. The colors of the lakes change throughout the day as the sun reflects off the water at various angles.
The over 300 square kilometer park has seven different pathways to explore, and Plitvice offers great natural beauty that begs to be discovered. The park is extremely forested, and there are routes that meander through the forest, across wooden bridges, and in the direction of caverns and mountains.
7. Lake Annecy, France
The third-largest lake in France is known as one of the cleanest lakes in Europe and is located in the heart of the French Alps. Compared to other European lakes, Lake Annecy is shallow (only 82 meters deep), but it makes up for it with stunningly beautiful blue waters that are ideal for swimming.
Lake Annecy, one of France’s most picturesque lakes, is encircled by snow-capped mountains and a lot of sandy beaches. As you tour the several medieval villages along the lakes, you’ll notice an even more beautiful contrast of colors and textures.
8. Lake Garda, Italy
The Dolomites’ edge is home to Italy’s largest lake, making it the ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts wishing to hike, bike, or simply explore. One of the most well-liked tourist spots near Lake Garda is the town of Sirmione, where the 13th-century Scaligero Castle and a few medieval churches are the primary draws. From here, travelers can catch ferries to other cities, including Riva, which is well-liked by sailors.
Many islands, including the well-known Isola del Garda, may be found in Lake Garda. It is today the location of a Venetian neo-Gothic villa surrounded by formal, landscaped gardens, which served as a Roman burial site in the past.
9. Lake Lugano, Switzerland, Italy
Although around 63 percent of the 49 square kilometers of the lake is in Switzerland and 37 percent is on the Italian side, Lake Lugano is located directly on the border between Switzerland and northern Italy.
The lake itself is encircled by charming cities and villages, notably the Swiss town of Lugano, which is home to 17 locations recognized as national historic sites. On both sides of the border, passenger boats on the lake connect the towns, providing the ideal setting for picture-perfect views.
12. Eibsee Lake, Germany
Bayern’s Eibsee Lake is one of the most well-liked lakes, and with good reason. Picture the Zugspitze shining in the distance, surrounded by crystal clear water that has varying colors of blue and green on its surface.
Indeed, it’s one of Europe’s most stunning lakes! Plan your visit so that you can explore the lake early in the day. The lake will be still and act as a perfect mirror as the sun will shine on the mountain peaks.
