The Top 10 Gardens to Visit in Europe this Summer
Visiting Europe this summer? Make sure you take some time out to see some of the region’s most spectacular gardens. Exploring gardens is one of the most delightful ways to experience Europe’s rich history, creativity, and natural beauty. From grand estates to hidden gems, Europe’s gardens offer tranquility, inspiration, and a touch of magic.
Its probably a bold call to name the “Top 10” since there are so many to choose from and everybody’s taste is different. However, if you love gardens, I’m sure you’ll find each of these completely enchanting.
And who knows, perhaps you’ll be inspired to try some of their ideas in your own garden.
Here are my Top 10 picks to inspire you this summer….
1. Claude Monet’s Garden, Giverny, France
Step into a masterpiece at Monet’s garden, where the famous water lilies and Japanese bridge come to life. One of the most recognizable gardens in the world, this is the place where Monet sourced much of his inspiration and created many celebrated works. It’s easy to see why.
Monet spent 40 years creating his garden and when you’re here you get a sense of who he was as an artist – his inspiration and vision. The house and garden have been restored to reflect how they were when he set up his easel to paint.
Today, as you walk the paths of the garden, there is a sense of stepping into one of his paintings. His garden is as much a work of art as any of his paintings. To me, this is a real “gardener’s garden”. His passion for gardening is visible everywhere you look.
There are essentially two gardens – the Clos Normand (Flower Garden) and the Water Garden. It was in the Water Garden that he painted his famous “Water Lilies” paintings. The gardens feature a wide variety of flowers and plants including water lilies, irises, roses, and wisteria. Each season brings a different palette of colours and fragrances.
Visit early in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of this artistic haven.
Read more about Monet’s Garden
2. Gardens of Marqueyssac, France
The Gardens of Marqueyssac, perched on a dramatic clifftop above the Dordogne River between Beynac and La Roque-Gageac, are a true testament to French garden style. The gardens are listed as a National Historic Monument.
These gardens are best known for the more than 150,000 hand-pruned, 100 year old, boxwood hedges that have been sculpted into intricate and whimsical shapes.
You can explore the gardens along more than 6 km (approx. 4 miles) of walking trails. There are three walks – the Cliff Walk, High Walk and Great Walk.
As you wander along the shaded paths, you’ll find enchanting surprises at every turn - from hidden gazebos to artfully framed vistas of the surrounding valley. The carefully designed layout feels like stepping into a living sculpture, making it a place that appeals to both nature lovers and art enthusiasts.
One of the most magical aspects of Marqueyssac is its tradition of candlelit evenings during the summer months. Thousands of candles illuminate the paths, creating an ethereal atmosphere as soft music fills the air. These events are a special experience if you’re visiting the area in summer.
The panoramic views from the gardens are another highlight. You can see sweeping vistas of the lush valley and meandering river below, as well as castles and nearby villages.
Whether you’re there to admire the intricate sculpture of the hedges, take in the views, or simply enjoy a pleasant day out, the unique Gardens of Marqueyssac are definitely worth a visit.
The gardens are open year round with opening times varying by season.
3. Villa d’Este, Tivoli, Italy
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Villa d’Este is a stunning example of Italian Renaissance garden design. Renowned for its opulent fountains, including the spectacular Fountain of Neptune, and cascading waterfalls, the garden is a sensory delight. Wander through its meticulously manicured terraces, adorned with statues and vibrant floral displays, all while enjoying the soothing sounds of running water.
The garden’s design reflects a deep appreciation for symmetry and perspective, making it an ideal destination for lovers of architecture and art. Beyond its visual appeal, Villa d’Este offers a glimpse into the opulence of 16th-century Italian nobility, as it was originally created as a retreat for Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este.
Once you’ve explored the intricacies of the villa’s water features, take some time out to just relax under the shade of ancient trees.
4. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England
The 18th Century writer Samuel Johnson once said “when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life”. There’s no doubt London is an endlessly fascinating city to visit. But, sometimes, the crowds can become overwhelming for those of us who enjoy a quieter pace. So what better way to re-energize than by stepping into a beautiful garden?
Just a 30 minutes from central London, Kew Gardens appeals to both garden lovers and history buffs. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to over 50,000 plants - one of the largest and most diverse plant collections in the world. It’s a living repository of botanical wonders from every corner of the globe.
The iconic Palm House and Temperate House offer an immersive experience into tropical and temperate climates, showcasing rare and exotic plants in stunning architectural settings. From carnivorous plants to a meditative Japanese garden, there really is something for all interests.
For a unique perspective, the Treetop Walkway takes visitors 18 metres (59 feet) above the ground to explore the tree canopy and enjoy views of the gardens.
Seasonal exhibitions add a dynamic element to Kew, ranging from art installations to themed events that highlight specific plant species or ecological issues.
With over 300 acres to explore, including wildflower meadows, waterlily ponds, and the historic Kew Palace, it’s a garden lover’s delight and the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
You could easily spend a day here with so much to explore. There are several cafes and restaurants serving seasonal specialties including food foraged from the garden. And just in case you need some retail therapy, they have that covered too, with shops selling gardening gifts, books, art and much more.
5. Alhambra Gardens, Granada, Spain
The Alhambra’s Generalife Gardens are a serene counterpart to the grandeur of the palace, offering a peaceful escape that feels worlds away from the bustling city of Granada.
These historic gardens, originally designed as a summer retreat for the Nasrid rulers, feature an exotic blend of Moorish design and natural beauty. Meandering through the fragrant courtyards, you’ll find tranquil pools and fountains that create a soothing symphony of water, embodying the Moorish love for harmony and relaxation.
An atmosphere of peace and tranquility is created with the use of water and lush greenery
One of the most captivating aspects of the Generalife Gardens is their carefully curated layout, which frames breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Alhambra itself. The interplay of light, shadow, and greenery creates an enchanting atmosphere, making it a favourite spot for photographers and artists alike.
You can also explore the ancient terraces adorned with colourful flowers and lush hedges, adding to the timeless charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, garden lover or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, the Generalife Gardens promise an unforgettable experience steeped in beauty and culture.
6. Versailles Gardens, France
The magnificent vision of France’s Sun King Louis XIV, Versailles is sumptuous in every sense. No visit to France would be complete without a visit to this iconic symbol of French history.
The Gardens of Versailles are as majestic as the palace itself, a reflection of Louis’ vision of grandeur and control over nature.
Spanning over 800 hectares (1977 acres), these gardens were designed by the renowned landscape architect André Le Nôtre and feature an intricate network of geometric flowerbeds, manicured lawns, and grand canals.
Everything at Versailles, including the gardens, was crafted to impress. And walking through the gardens feels like stepping into a living tapestry of symmetry and splendour.
The dramatic fountains, including the famous Apollo Fountain, are a highlight, each telling its own mythological story through intricate sculptures and cascading water displays. During the summer you can see the spectacular musical fountain shows, where water and classical music combine to create an unforgettable sensory experience.
From the Orangerie’s exotic citrus trees to the serene formal plantations of trees hidden throughout the grounds (known as Bosquets), the Gardens of Versailles offer much to discover. It’s a place where history, art, and nature converge to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Close your eyes and imagine King Louis striding through his gardens with his lavishly dressed entourage…..
7. Gardens of Ninfa, Italy
Often described as the most romantic garden in the world, the Gardens of Ninfa are a botanical beauty that lies among the picturesque ruins of a medieval town in Italy.
This spellbinding garden features a unique blend of history and nature, with lush greenery weaving around crumbling stone walls, archways, and ancient towers. It’s a haven for plant lovers, showcasing over a thousand varieties of flora, including roses, wisteria, and rare trees that thrive in its unique micro-climate.
One of the loveliest aspects of the Gardens of Ninfa is the peaceful atmosphere. You can wander along pathways that take you past shimmering streams, reflective ponds, and vibrant flowerbeds. The Lepini Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop.
The garden’s careful design creates an almost magical experience, as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Each turn reveals another picturesque scene, whether it’s a stone bridge covered in ivy or a cascading waterfall.
This lesser-known gem is perfect for a peaceful summer escape, offering a romantic and serene setting that feels far removed from the modern world. A visit here is not just a journey into Italy’s rich history but also an opportunity to experience the harmonious blend of natural beauty and human creativity at its best.
8. Powerscourt Gardens, Ireland
Ireland is home to some impressive gardens and is a wonderful part of the world to do a garden tour.
One of its most impressive gardens can be found in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, just 20 minutes south of Dublin.
Powerscourt Gardens is a stunning 47-acre estate that blends formal landscaping with the untamed beauty of its natural surroundings.
Originally designed in the 18th century, the gardens feature a series of distinctive areas, each with its own character and charm. The Italian Garden, with its perfectly symmetrical terraces and ornamental fountains, exudes elegance and provides wonderful views of the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain.
The Walled Gardens offer a more intimate experience, showcasing a variety of colourful flowerbeds, herbaceous borders, and fragrant plants that thrive in the Irish climate. You can also explore the Japanese Garden, a quiet space filled with pagodas, bridges, and vibrant foliage that changes with the seasons.
While you’re at the garden, don’t miss Triton Lake, where a striking fountain sculpture adds a dramatic focal point to the serene landscape.
The garden is also home to Ireland’s highest waterfall which tumbles down 121 metres (396 feet) of rock face. You can enjoy a picnic or BBQ at the base of the falls. You’ll also find shops and dining in Powerscourt House.
From the Rose Garden to the centuries-old trees in the arboretum, Powerscourt Gardens offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance and outstanding design
It’s not surprising that it’s one of Ireland’s favourite garden destinations, perfect for a relaxing summer escape.
9. Sissinghurst Castle Garden, England
Created by the visionary duo Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, Sissinghurst Castle Garden is a quintessentially English garden renowned for its poetic beauty and design.
You’ll find it in the Kent countryside, near the town of Cranbrook. This historic garden is laid out as a series of "garden rooms," each with its own unique character and charm. From the colourful and exuberant Cottage Garden to the tranquil and contemplative White Garden, every corner of Sissinghurst exudes romance and artistry.
The White Garden is especially enchanting during the height of summer when the pale blooms of roses, lilies, and hydrangeas create a luminous display against the green backdrop of the garden. The garden’s design emphasizes texture and form, creating a serene yet dynamic space that feels timeless.
Other areas, such as the Herb Garden and the Rose Garden, add to the rich tapestry of scents, colours, and experiences.
View of the garden “rooms” from the castle.
(Tony Hisgett from Birmingham, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
While you’re here, be sure to climb the 78 steps to the top of the tower, which is part of the Elizabethan mansion. It offers stunning views of the garden and its surroundings. From this vantage point you can see the structure of the garden, with its distinctive rooms, and get a sense of the full scale of the manor house. Additionally, Vita’s Writing Room, which is located in the tower, can be viewed without a tour, providing a glimpse into her internal intellectual life.
Sissinghurst is more than just a beautiful space; it is a testament to the creative vision and passion of its creators. Whether you’re a garden enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Sissinghurst Castle Garden is a place that stays with you long after your visit.
10. Mirabell Gardens, Austria
In the heart of Austria lies Mirabell Gardens, a baroque masterpiece that feels like stepping into a storybook.
The gardens are located in Salzburg and were created in 1606. The meticulously designed garden blends art, history, and natural beauty. The geometric flowerbeds are filled with vibrant blooms that change with the seasons, providing a stunning foreground to the view of Hohensalzburg Fortress in the distance.
A highlight of Mirabell Gardens is the Grand Fountain, surrounded by sculptures representing the four elements, which adds an elegant focal point to the sprawling grounds. For the film buffs, you can also explore the Pegasus Fountain, famously featured in "The Sound of Music".
The Dwarf Garden is known for its quirky and expressive marble sculptures. The statues are crafted from white marble and are thought to represent real people from the past, adding a whimsical yet historical dimension to the garden.
The Orangery, on the other hand, offers a more elegant and refined charm, housing exotic citrus trees and serving as a reminder of the baroque period's fascination with horticulture and luxury.
Whether you're wandering the immaculately maintained paths or enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, this garden offers a picturesque escape for visitors of all ages. It’s an ideal spot to soak in the cultural richness of Salzburg while enjoying in the beauty of its landscape.
Tips for Visiting European Gardens in Summer
Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of these gardens in the early morning.
Pack Light: Bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and a hat to stay comfortable on warm summer days.
Check Events: Many gardens host seasonal events, including concerts, guided tours, and exhibitions.
Exploring these gardens is a wonderful way to connect with nature and history while indulging in a bit of summer daydreaming.
Which garden will you visit first?