The 8 best holiday destinations in Europe to visit in 2022

From the sun-soaked destinations of the ancient Mediterranean Sea to some of the world's most recognized and culture-rich cities along the romantic Rhine, the shores of this incredible continent boast some of the most inspiring destinations. 

With the ability to reach a multitude of destinations, and visit smaller ports and harbours that are less frequented by the ordinary traveller, an Emerald Cruises river cruise or superyacht voyage is the perfect way to discover the very best of Europe. As we all look ahead to a return to travel in 2022 and beyond, we wanted to share the best European destinations that you should travel to this year.

So, as you're asking yourself "where can I go on holiday?", here's our pick of the eight best places to go on holiday in 2022.

Renowned for its remarkable history, vibrant culture and for being home to some of Europe's most delicious beer, Prague is certainly one of best places to go on holiday this year. As you explore this fascinating city, you'll quickly realise why Czechia's capital is regarded as “the City of a Hundred Spires”. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site in its own right, Prague's Old Town and historical centre contain a wealth of monasteries, cathedrals and castles that define the city's skyline — exemplifying Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Medieval Romanesque architecture. 

With more than ten major museums, along with countless galleries, theatres and historical monuments, history buffs will love spending a few days uncovering over 1,000 years of European history throughout Prague. Wander your way to the famed medieval Astronomical Clock which gives an animated hourly show, cross the illustrious Charles Bridge dating back to 1402 before grabbing yourself some authentic Czech fare and heading off to relax in one of the city's beautiful public gardens.

Thinking about discovering this fairy tale city for yourself in 2022? Spend three spectacular days exploring Prague to either begin or end your immersive river cruise along the Danube. Complete with locally-guided excursions, regionally inspired meals along with a wealth of inclusions and amenities designed with your wellbeing in mind, take in the very best of Eastern and Central Europe with Emerald Cruises when you reignite your love to travel. 


Regarded as a safe destination, Prague, along with the whole of Czechia, has been awarded the Safe Travels Stamp by The World Tourism & Travel Council.

Over 2,000 years ago, a Celtic tribe known as the Parisii founded a small fishing village along a north-bending arc of the River Seine. Today, this humble riverside town has transformed into one of the world's most renowned cities, and one of our top destinations for 2022. Paris is not only the mesmerising capital of France, but it's also a nucleus for European art, culture, history and cuisine. Known by many as "The City of Light," its numerous dazzling boulevards, bridges, monuments and architectural marvels will make independently exploring Paris by foot a truly immersive and magical experience.

You can now look forward to extending your travels through the South of France with a delightful pre and post-cruise city stay extension in Paris. Just imagine... after a relaxing river cruise through the verdant vineyards, the Lyonnaise and Provençal cuisines, and small medieval villages along the Rhône, you escape to the world of the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. Paris is calling in 2022, will you be joining us?

Approaching Dubrovnik from the sea is a spectacle in itself. With the city’s vast medieval walls appearing the same today as they did 700 years ago, it will feel as though your superyacht has somehow sailed back through time. As travel returns to Adriatic Coast in 2022, voyagers are looking forward to enjoying a one-of-a-kind yacht cruise taking them to this truly historical city. One of the more prominent travel destinations in the Mediterranean Sea, Croatia's Dubrovnik is not only a city of charming cobbled streets, medieval architecture and a stunning fortified Old Town, but it's flanked by the famous azure waters of the Adriatic, quaint riverside villages atop rocky fjords, and the stunning white-sand islands along the Dalmatian Coast. 

With up to just 100 guests, join us on board Emerald Azzurra for a truly immersive small-ship yacht cruise featuring Dubrovnik.

As one of the oldest cities in Germany, and consistently one of world's top travel spots, Cologne proves time and time again to be a must-see European destination. As the Rhineland's cultural and historical centre, the city's skyline is unique, enigmatic and forward-thinking whilst unmistakably nostalgic. Although dominated by the iconic Köln Cathedral, Cologne is awash with hidden gems and sites to captivate the senses. 

From one of Europe’s finest collections of modern art at Museum Ludwig to the aromas of the Fragrance Museum to the engineering might of the Hohenzollern Bridge as it spans the Rhine River, 2022 is your time to travel to this iconic European destination.

With its numerous canals, artistic heritage, cobbled streets and quaint, colourful buildings, Amsterdam is easily one of Europe's most well recognized destinations. Regarded around the world for its tolerance, safety and friendliness, the Dutch capital continues to attract visitors from every corner of the world. With few of the drawbacks of a big city, Amsterdam is a dream for the discerning globetrotter. In the space of a day, it’s possible to traverse the length and breadth of this city — its village-like charm lending itself perfectly to those looking to stroll its narrow streets or while away an hour or so in a waterside bistro. 

Feeling a bit more adventurous? Immerse yourself in the city's most identifiable mode of transportation, and uncover its many secrets by bicycle like a true Amsterdammer. 

#DidYouKnow: With more nationalities calling Amsterdam home than any other city, it is one of the most diverse city in the world?

Thinking of making a trip to the "Venice of the North" in 2022? There is perhaps no better time to visit the Netherlands and northern Europe than in the Spring when the countryside is in full bloom. Join us on an award-winning river cruise along the romantic Rhine River this year and discover the picture-perfect magic of this special city for yourself.

You've probably seen a picture or two of Greece's iconic whitewashed buildings perched atop a rugged cliff overlooking a white sandy beach below. For millennia, the island of Santorini has beckoned travellers and sun lovers to its pristine shores. As the Mediterranean Sea once again becomes one of the most popular holidays destinations, we know that this breathtaking island in the Aegean Sea will begin to welcome back would-be explorers. 

Truly a place where ancient meets contemporary, visit a striking monument dating back to antiquity before relaxing in a quaint seaside café enjoying some local fare. Then, retire to modern luxury on board your stunning Emerald Cruises superyacht ahead of the next day's incredible adventure. 

One of the world’s most elegant, vibrant and influential cities, Vienna is certainly on our list of best European destinations to visit in 2022. Long regarded as the classic music capital of the world and a centre for artistic excellence, the Austrian capital's cultural heritage runs deep, seeping its way into the architecture, cuisine and traditions of this riverside city. Nestled against Europe's second longest waterway, a river cruise along the Danube River will take you right into the heart of this mesmerising city. A site of continuous habitation for more than 2,500 years, Vienna proudly boasts some of the world’s foremost examples of Baroque, Rococo, Romanesque, Classicist and Modern architecture – creating one of Europe’s most beautiful and captivating metropolises. From the breathtaking opulence of the Schönbrunn Palace to the sights and sounds of the State Opera House, Vienna is yours to explore in 2022 and beyond.

#DidYouKnow: Vienna is one of the few cities in the world where Old World grape vines continue to grow within the city limits? With a viticulture dating back to the Romans, the Austrian capital is home to some 700 hectares of vineyards.

Our final top destination to visit in 2022 is a city where East and West meet in wonderful fashion. 
From the Hungarian Parliament Building to Buda Hill, Budapest flexes its architectural grandeur with pride along the banks of the Danube, providing an awe-inspiring panorama before you’ve even set foot on dry land. Once there, however, a wealth of historical and contemporary highlights await you. Delight in regional fare from a street vendor as you stroll through the narrow streets of some of the Hungarian capital's quaint neighbourhoods — from the mesmerising Palace District to the eclectic Jewish Quarter, traditions collide in Budapest to offer you a truly unique and unforgettable experience. 

Often visited at either the beginning or end of one of our most popular river cruises, Budapest is a truly inspiring destination and a definite must-see city for those looking to explore Europe in 2022.