16 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Europe You Should Visit
Looking for the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe to add to your travel bucket list? This post will give you all the must-see waterfalls!
There are countless reasons to travel to Europe. It’s teeming with options if you’re after historical and cultural attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Acropolis, the Colosseum, La Sagrada Familia, and the Grand Canal of Venice — the list goes on.
However, these attractions are barely scratching the surface if you truly want to experience the beauty of this continent.
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Be prepared to witness the most mesmerizing natural wonders in the form of the best waterfalls in Europe.
Some of the European waterfalls on this list are easy to find, while others will require a bit of effort to reach.
There are famous waterfalls and some that are considered hidden gems but regardless of what you choose to explore on your next trip, these scenic waterfalls are undoubtedly worth your time and effort.
Sit back, relax and explore the most amazing and scenic waterfalls that you’ll want to add to your European bucket list.
Famous Waterfalls in Europe
1. Skogafoss Waterfall, Iceland
Often called the best waterfall in Europe, it’s hard not to be partial when you witness this natural marvel first-hand.
Rainbows are a daily sighting at Skogafoss waterfall, which is a result of the sun hitting the mists coming from the rushing waters. It is a truly magical spectacle that has led many to theorize its legendary origins.
The waterfall is also notable for its classical shape, which is impressive for a waterfall of its size and height. It measures 60 meters (196 ft) in height.
Another distinctive feature of this waterfall is the scenic footpath of approximately 500 steps that takes you right to the top of the waterfall.
This offers the perfect vantage point to witness the vast landscapes of the area near the waterfall and beyond the horizon.
Located within the small town of Skogar in South Iceland, it is adjacent to the Ring Road (a popular scenic route in Iceland). It is also a 2-hour drive from the capital city of Reykjavik.
The best part about visiting Skogafoss? The parking lot is right next to the waterfall so there is basically no hiking involved to get to it.
2. Keila Waterfall, Estonia
Consider this as one of the hidden gems on the list of the best waterfalls in Europe. Although Estonia isn’t a popular tourist destination, it is actually abundant when it comes to natural beauty and Keila Waterfall is one of them.
This 6-meter (20 ft) high, 70-meter (230 ft) wide waterfall is located in the small town of Keila-Joa in Northern Estonia.
It is connected to the Keila River and is renowned not just for its spectacular beauty but also because it’s a source of power.
A hydroelectric power plant is located on the waterfall, which provides electricity to the nearby areas.
There are also other attractions near the waterfall such as a neo-Gothic manor house, suspension bridges, and hiking trails.
3. Plitvice Waterfalls, Croatia
No list of the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe is complete without Croatia’s Plitvice Waterfalls.
This waterfall is one of the main attractions of the Plitvice National Park, (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the country as a whole.
The park is of unmatched beauty featuring terraced lakes joined by waterfalls and a limestone canyon.
The spectacular sight of the Plitvice Waterfalls attracts over one million tourists annually. With such a breathtaking view, it’s easy to see why.
The most unique feature about this is that it is a network of waterfalls with more than 90 cascading waterfalls in total!
4. Staubbach Falls, Switzerland
The Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of the most sought-after regions among tourists in Switzerland and if you’re looking for one more reason to add it to your Swiss itinerary on your next visit, then let it be Staubbach Falls.
Rising 300 meters (984 feet) high, this is the third highest waterfall in the country. It is also one of the most picturesque, providing the most awe-inspiring backdrop to the charming village that sits right in front of this natural wonder.
While it isn’t impressive in terms of volume or height, the sight of the freefalling waterfall as it is surrounded by the Swiss Alps and the towering cliffs make it postcard-worthy.
There are plenty of hiking opportunities available in Lauterbrunnen for those who want to get closer to one of the most picturesque waterfalls of Europe. However, the best vantage point is from the village.
5. Krimml Waterfalls, Austria
Located in Tyrol, Krimml Waterfalls is one of Austria’s most raved about and one of the most famous waterfalls in Europe.
Rising to a height of 380 meters (1,246 ft), this is a tiered waterfall and descends in three stages with the highest point of the waterfall situated at 1,470 meters (4,822 ft) above sea level.
The most notable characteristic and also what makes it one of the most beautiful waterfalls is the lush landscape of pine trees that seem to blanket it since it begins at the top of the Krimmler Ache valley.
There are numerous walking paths that visitors can take for a closer look at the waterfall, some of which can get you sprayed on with a bit of mist from the gushing falls.
But if you prefer a panoramic view, then head across the valley where you can take all the grandeur in one single frame.
6. Bigar Waterfall, Romania
If you ever need convincing to visit Bigar Waterfall in Romania, you only need to see a photo of this spectacular work of nature. This is easily one of the most unique waterfalls in Europe, if not the most beautiful.
Unlike several waterfalls on this list, this one does not feature water freefalling off a cliff. Instead, water calmly trickles down from a mossy rock formation that juts out of the surrounding mountain.
This rounded waterfall is located in the Anna Mountains and is approximately 8 meters high. It is situated in a protected area within Caras-Severin County in Southwestern Romania.
It is officially known as Bigar Cascade Falls and there is a parking area close to the falls. You can drive here, park your car, and then take a short hike to marvel at this unique attraction.
However, in 2021, a portion of this waterfall collapsed and it is attributed to natural causes, according to the authorities. Despite that, it is still a sight worth seeing, especially if you are curious to see what is left of this natural wonder.
7. Cascade de la Lance, France
The name of this waterfall is based on the fact that it looks like an upside-down lance when viewed from the top.
It is located in Colmars, France, and is situated on a rocky outcropping making it another one of the must-see waterfalls in the French Alps.
The waterfall is blanketed by rock steps with water rushing from one of the openings to the face of the rock.
It features a single drop of 25 meters (82 ft) in height. The water that gushes out from this fall flows from the river Lance and it drops into an emerald pool below.
For those visiting Cascade de la Lance, there are many hiking trails in the nearby area in Colmars and you can also stop by the citadel of Colmars.
8. Krka Waterfalls, Croatia
Croatia is blessed when it comes to stunning waterfalls, and it’s impossible to miss them when you visit the country.
Aside from the Plitvice Waterfalls, here’s another one you cannot afford to miss — Krka Waterfalls which is located within the Krka National Park in the Dalmatia region.
For some, they believe that it is more beautiful than the highly popular Plitvice; however, this is subject to personal opinion.
This waterfall flows from the Krka River in Southern Croatia and is notable for having a series of 7 waterfalls that appear like terraces.
The river water spills out into deep pools below, which drops to a height of 45 meters (147 ft). The flow of the water is so strong that it can power the second oldest hydroelectric power plant in the world.
Krka Waterfalls (and the Krka National Park) is approximately a 1-hour drive from Split making it a popular day tour destination in Croatia due to its proximity to major cities.
In addition to seeing the waterfall, there are also camping and hiking trails that you can explore within the park.
While visitors were allowed to swim next to the falls, this was stopped in January 2020 as a way of preserving the park’s ecosystem (due to the increased number of swimmers) and in part for safety reasons as some people had initially drowned in it.
9. Godafoss Waterfall, Iceland
For a country known for its otherworldly landscapes and picturesque waterfalls, Godafoss stands out as one of the best.
This waterfall is located in Northern Iceland and is connected to the river Skjálfandafljót. It falls from a height of 12 meters (39 ft) and is 30 meters (98 ft) wide.
The strategic location of this waterfall on the Ring Road is also attributed to its popularity.
This is without a doubt a very scenic waterfall, especially as you witness first-hand the cascading waters from the semi-circular arc.
A lot of photo enthusiasts drive to Godafoss specifically to capture its stunning beauty, with some using it as a backdrop for witnessing the Northern Lights.
Even if you are not exploring the Ring Road or the Diamond Circle, Godafoss is easy to get to. It is approximately 45 minutes away from Akureyri, which is Iceland’s second-largest city.
10. Cascade D’ars, France
Cascade D’Ars is not a name that immediately pops to mind when people think of the most famous waterfalls in Europe.
However, that does not take anything away from the fact that it is not only one of France’s most gorgeous natural wonders but also Europe’s.
This picturesque waterfall is located in the Midi-Pyrenees and falls at a height of 240 meters (787 ft) and on three stages.
The Pyrenees region of France is already notable for its breathtaking beauty and this waterfall is one of the major natural attractions in the region. For the best experience, make sure to visit between May to June.
Aside from the waterfall, there is a mountain track near the area. This is an easy walk so it is a great destination for all hiking abilities. This track also runs along different stages of the waterfall and all of the levels offer spectacular views.
11. Rhine Falls, Switzerland
Known as the largest plain waterfall in Switzerland, Rhine Falls is dubbed the most spectacular waterfall in Central Europe and the most powerful in all of Europe.
While that statement might be up for debate, it is clear that this natural wonder boasts stupendous beauty.
Connected to the High Rhine section of the Rhine River, the waterfall is 23 meters (75 ft) high and has a width of 150 meters (492 ft).
Aside from its undeniable beauty, one of the reasons tourists are drawn to this attraction is its great water volume.
During the summer, an average of 600 cubic meters (21,189 cubic ft) of water gushes down the falls. It is truly an amazing spectacle you have to see in person to fully appreciate.
12. Seven Sisters Waterfall, Norway
The Seven Sisters Waterfall is one of the most photographed attractions in Geirangerfjorden.
True to its name, it is made up of seven waterfalls that descend into the fjord, creating a magical spectacle for tourists who embark on fjord tours in the area.
While they all have different heights, the tallest is at a 250-meter (820 ft) drop of water creating a mesmerizing sight due to its height.
There is a fascinating story about the waterfalls citing how the “Seven Sisters” were unmarried and there is another waterfall on the opposite side of the fjord that is called “The Suitor”.
If you want to maximize your experience of seeing the waterfall, make sure to visit during the major snow melting period (May to July).
The waterfall looks most impressive when the water levels are high since it might not be as visible at other times of the year.
In addition to going on fjord boat tours in the area, there are also other nearby attractions to the Seven Sisters Waterfall like the abandoned farm close to Knivsflå.
13. Marmore Falls, Italy
If you visit Umbria, Italy in search of a magnificent sight, then Marmore Falls won’t disappoint.
It is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls of Europe because of how the water bursts through the lush cliffs and plummets into the valley.
The waterfall is 164 meters (541 ft) tall and is tiered, creating a marvelous spectacle for tourists.
But that’s not the most striking thing about Marmore Falls. It is actually a feat of human engineering since it was built by the Romans in 271 BC.
The Romans built a canal that helped bring water from the nearby cliff and into the Nera River. It went through a series of developments in order to implement an efficient water management system and prevent flooding.
With such a colorful history, Marmore Falls continues to attract visitors all year round.
For the best vantage point, I recommend hiking to the top of the falls since it offers awe-inspiring views of the waterfall and the valley below.
14. Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland
Powerscourt Waterfall is the second tallest waterfall in Ireland and arguably the most beautiful. It is 121 meters (396 ft) tall and is located at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains.
The cascading water from the falls provides a wonderful backdrop to the nearby park at the Powerscourt Estate.
It is quite a spectacle to behold by those who enjoy a picnic or a wonderful stroll in the beautiful parkland.
Anyone who wishes to marvel at the waterfall can enjoy the paid access to Powerscourt Estate and make use of the facilities in the park.
The distinctive feature of the Powerscourt Waterfall is that it has been featured in a couple of fantasy films such as Excalibur in 1981 and the historical drama TV series, Vikings.
15. Seljalandsfoss, Iceland
There is no shortage of superlatives that can be used to describe the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in the South Region of Iceland.
It is another one of the well-known waterfalls that are sought after by nature enthusiasts.
This 60-meter (196 ft) tall waterfall should be on your travel bucket list if breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls are what you’re after.
Seljalandsfoss is unique because it is one of few waterfalls in Iceland that can be fully encircled.
While the waterfall has a narrow cascade, the cliff where it falls from is pretty tall creating a wonderful veil of water.
When you explore the pathway that stretches around it, you can get the opportunity to explore a wide cavern and experience the waterfall from the other side.
And during the night, floodlights switch on creating an impressive illumination that will leave you awe-inspired.
16. Falls of Foyers, Scotland
Last but definitely not least on this list of the most beautiful Europe waterfalls is Scotland’s Falls of Foyers.
The water on the falls comes from the River Foyers and is then fed into the infamous Loch Ness. The waterfall features a total drop of 50 meters (165 ft).
It is believed that many poets (including Robert Burns) were inspired by this spectacular view. There are two viewing points; the upper and lower portion.
The hiking trails around the falls are equally stunning with some rocks featuring Burns’ poems that were inspired by the Falls of Foyers.
Final Thoughts on the Most Spectacular Europe Waterfalls
This list of the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe has proven once again that nature is truly the best artist.
Whether you are looking to be awe-inspired when you see the gushing waters from the top of a cliff or you want to capture the most Instagram-worthy shots, you can guarantee that these waterfalls won’t disappoint.
This is your invitation to get off the beaten path and be rewarded with the most stunning views because it will be worth your while.
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- Most beautiful cities to visit in Europe
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