Europe never goes out of style, but every year the reasons to visit shift. In 2027, travelers are looking beyond the obvious capitals and heading toward destinations that blend culture, gastronomy, and authenticity, places where history is still lived in, not just displayed. Three countries stand out for delivering exactly that: Portugal, Spain, and France.
Whether you're planning a multi-country escape or a slower, single-destination journey, here's why these three should be at the top of your 2027 travel list and how to experience each one at its very best.
Portugal has spent the last few years quietly becoming one of Europe's most sought-after destinations, and 2027 is shaping up to be its biggest year yet. From the granite elegance of Porto to the neoclassical grandeur of Lisbon, the country offers a unique blend: world-class gastronomy, centuries of maritime history, and some of the finest wine regions on the planet, all within a few hours' drive of each other.
Porto © Nick Karvounis via Unsplash
The Douro Valley, the world's oldest demarcated wine region, remains Portugal's crown jewel. Sailing its terraced hillsides aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, or dining at a quinta overlooking the river, is an experience that rivals, and often surpasses, its more famous European counterparts. Add UNESCO-listed Sintra, the medieval walls of Óbidos, and the marble city of Estremoz, and it's easy to see why Portugal keeps climbing every "destinations to watch" list.
For travelers who want to experience the country in full depth, our 14-Day Premium Tour in Portugal covers:
Restaurant © Matriarca
Standout Moments:
If Portugal is about quiet elegance, Spain is about bold, unmistakable energy, and in 2027, that contrast is exactly why so many travelers are combining the two. From the Moorish palaces of Granada to the flamenco tablaos of Madrid, Spain delivers some of Europe's most iconic cultural landmarks alongside a food and wine scene that continues to draw global attention.
Plaza de España, Seville | © Tânia Mousinho via Unsplash
Andalusia in particular is having a moment: the Alhambra, the mosque-cathedral of Córdoba, and the clifftop views of Ronda make for a region that feels both ancient and alive. Meanwhile, cities like Seville and Madrid balance historic grandeur with genuinely world-class gastronomy, think sherry pairings, tapas crawls with local experts, and Michelin-starred flamenco dinners.
For travelers who want to experience Portugal and Spain together, our 16-Day Portugal & Spain Tour connects:
Flamenco Show | © Maryam Tello via Unsplash
What Makes It Special:
No list of Europe's best destinations would be complete without France, and in 2027, its appeal shows no sign of slowing down. Beyond the well-trodden path of Paris, France's wine regions (Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Loire Valley) continue to attract travelers looking for the same kind of immersive, terroir-driven experiences that have made Portugal's Douro Valley so popular.
Paris | © Dimitri Iakymuk via Unsplash
France offers a natural extension for travelers who want to pair Iberian charm with French sophistication, vineyard estates, countryside châteaux, and a culinary tradition that needs no introduction. It's this combination of accessibility and prestige that makes France such a strong addition to any 2027 European itinerary.
We specialize in designing fully custom tours tailored to your preferences, whether that's a standalone French journey or an extension of your Portugal or Spain trip.
Portugal, Spain, and France each offer something distinct, but together they represent the very best of what Europe has to offer in 2027: rich history, exceptional wine, and experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether you choose one country or all three, the key is traveling with people who know the region intimately, the hidden quintas, the family-run estates, the tables only locals know about.
Ready to start planning? Explore our curated tours above, or get in touch to design a fully custom itinerary across Portugal, Spain, and France.