Top 5 Most Beautiful Gardens in Europe

Many of Europe’s most prized works of art—its brilliant paintings, ancient tapestries, awe-inspiring sculptures—are kept indoors. However, the grounds surrounding the best museums and landmarks of Europe can be equally incredible. With springtime just around the corner, it is the perfect time to explore the most beautiful gardens in Europe. Here are favorites:

Royal Botanic Gardens – Kew, London

Covering over 300 acres in the heart of London, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew can easily fill a whole day. It is home to over 38,000 species of flora and fauna—some of which are completely extinct in the wild! A few of the magnificent garden’s major highlights are the Queens Garden (located directly behind Kew Palace, and designed in the 1960’s) and the Aquatic Garden (supposedly inspired by the sunken Garden at Hampton Court Palace.) The ten-story Pagoda and the Aroid House (a humid facility that houses an array of tropical plants) are also worth a visit.

Recommended hotels in London: Saint Georges Hotel, Best Western Premier Shaftesbury Piccadilly

Royal Botanic Gardens – Edinburgh

Actually comprised of both indoor and outdoor spaces, the Royal Botanic Gardens spreads out over 70 acres. The fascinating rock garden is a major draw, as is the beautiful Scottish-Heath garden. The colorful Queen Mother’s garden showcases plants from all around the world, and the Chinese hillside is especially extensive. Tropical flowers and indigenous European species mingle throughout Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Gardens. Meanwhile, lovely glass houses (including the popular Victoria glass house) welcome you indoors to marvel at other unique exhibits.

Recommended hotels in Edinburgh: Barcelo Edinburgh Carlton, Apex International Hotel

Generalife – Granada

The elegant Generalife compound is often said to have been the summer palace of the Sultans. However, the charming villa overlooking the Alhambra was actually built as a hunting lodge and country retreat. Spanish aristocrats once occupied the upper floor of the 19^th-century buildings, and sought refuge in the shade of surrounding trees. Today, the extensive gardens of the Generalife provide the same tranquility and beauty to visitors. Fountains and flourishing flora fill the romantic Generalife courtyard and enhance adjacent panoramic patios. The colorful gardens and accompanying views make this one of the most picturesque places in Spain.

Recommended hotels in Granada: Saray Hotel, Melia Granada

Nymphenburg Palace Gardens – Munich

Impeccably manicured and perfectly maintained, the park adjacent to Nymphenburg Palace is truly fit for a king. The grounds of the Nymphenburg Palace Gardens, originally Italienesque, were beautifully transformed and expanded in the 17^th century. They still retain all of their Old World glamour and opulence. Imposing statues of the Greek Gods oversee verdant lawns and large, crystal-clear ponds. Meanwhile, diverse flowerbeds and roaming birds add flair. This is an ideal spot in which to enjoy a picnic with your family or friends after taking a tour of the palace’s interior.

Recommended hotels in Munich: Hotel Polo, Four Points By Sheraton Munich Central

Monet’s Garden – Giverny

A far cry from the manicured lawns surrounding Europe’s palaces, Monet’s Garden is known for its wildly rustic atmosphere. The untamed hedges and overgrown flowerbeds create a lush, romantic atmosphere that art-lovers will immediately connect to Monet’s messy brush strokes. The colorful gardens that surround Claude Monet’s mansion are truly indicative of his paintings and personality. Take a leisurely stroll around the fragrant homestead to follow in the master’s footsteps. Located in Giverny, about 50 miles from Paris, Monet’s Garden is a wonderful place to spend a quiet afternoon.

Recommended hotels in Paris: Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel, Emeraude Lodge du Centre