Account
Day trip
From: Dover
To: Calais
 
 
Day trip
 
Day trip
Bucket List Travel Ideas

If bucket list travel is on your plans for 2026, travelling with P&O Ferries adds comfort and flexibility, letting you bring your car, pack freely, and enjoy the crossing at your own pace.

From the moment you step on board, travel feels more relaxed and well-paced. This makes ferry travel a great option for couples, families, and groups looking for memorable trips without unnecessary stress.



Book now!
Why do European countries Belongs on Every Travel Bucket List?

Europe offers a huge variety within short distances. One day, you can explore a royal palace. Next, you can relax by the sea or wander through historic streets. Every destination has its own culture and pace of life.

Travelling by ship with P&O Ferries keeps things easy. You can bring your own car, pack freely, and enjoy the crossing, which makes bucket list trips especially appealing for couples, families, and small groups. With this added flexibility, our diverse European destinations list helps you kickstart an adventure that suits the way you like to travel.


Duty Free Icon

Shopping

Coffe Shop Icon

Coffee Shop

Pet Lounge Icon

Pets Travel Free

Food Court

Kids Area Icon

Kids Entertainment

Duty Free Icon

Foreign Exchange

Bucket-List Travel Ideas for Families & Groups

Families and groups benefit from mixing city breaks with countryside or coastal stays. This keeps trips varied and enjoyable for everyone. Cities like Amsterdam and Brussels are popular for families thanks to walkable streets, open parks, and child-friendly attractions. Family holidays in France also work well, offering relaxed days by the sea alongside easy day trips.

For group travel, choosing flexible accommodation and planning a loose daily structure helps keep things stress-free. Shared activities, balanced with free time, make trips more enjoyable for different ages and interests. 

With P&O Ferries, travel time becomes part of the holiday. Space, comfort, and flexibility make journeys enjoyable from start to finish. That is why so many top bucket list travel destinations in Europe are best explored by ship. A bucket list holiday is sure to be one to remember when you plan it right and make sure there is something for every member of the group.


How to Plan Your European Bucket-List Trip

Start by deciding what excites you most. adventure, culture, food, or relaxation all work well in Europe. Spring and autumn bring mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer is more fitting for relaxing beaches and lively festivals. 

Travelling by ferry helps manage costs, as you can pack freely and bring your own car. Supporting local businesses also allows you to buy high-quality and unique handmade clothing, decor, or jewellery, while supporting local craftsmanship.



Get the most out of your ferry crossing to Northern Ireland and get the best prices when you book direct with P&O Ferries!
Find out more
Duty Free Icon

Shopping

Coffe Shop Icon

Coffee Shop

Pet Lounge Icon

Pets Travel Free

Food Court

Kids Area Icon

Kids Entertainment

Duty Free Icon

Foreign Exchange

Find out more

European Bucket List Travel Destinations

Iconic Bucket List Places to Visit

Some destinations earn their place on every bucket list travel list. Paris is known for the Eiffel Tower, riverside walks, and café culture. Amsterdam charms visitors with canals, museums, and relaxed neighbourhoods, especially when travelling via ferries to Holland. Edinburgh also blends medieval streets with hilltop views and lively festivals. 

Enjoyed at a slower pace, these cities continue to earn their place as timeless bucket list places to visit.

Beach Bucket List Holiday Destinations in Europe

Europe offers beaches for every travel style. Northern France has wide sandy shores and peaceful seaside towns. Southern Europe brings warmer waters, long evenings, and laid-back coastal living.

These spots remain popular bucket list holiday destinations because they combine sunshine with great food and atmosphere. Coastal road trips also pair well with camping holidays in Europe, especially when bringing your own vehicle.

Best Bucket List Travel Destinations By Ferry

Top European Bucket List Destiantions

Across Europe, there is a destination that suits every traveller, with a variety of adventure spots, beach getaways, iconic cities, and more.

Many travellers are now looking beyond major capitals. Smaller cities often feel more personal and less crowded. This has increased interest in European bucket list destinations that offer deeper local experiences.

Across France, coastal cities such as Calais offer history, local food, and easy onward travel, especially when arriving by ferry to France. Balancing famous cities with quieter stops makes trips more rewarding. There are also plenty of hidden capitals around Europe that showcase beautiful and exciting spots to discover off the beaten track.

 

Adventure Bucket List Trip Ideas

Europe suits travellers who love the outdoors. The Scottish Highlands offer open landscapes, hiking trails, and peaceful scenery. Late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit, and travelling via our ferries to Scotland gives you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. You can enjoy quiet walks, scenic drives, or discover charming villages along the way.

Northern Ireland is another favourite destination. Its coastal roads, green countryside, and cliff walks make it ideal for road trips. Travelling with a ferry to Northern Ireland allows you to plan your route conveniently and explore hidden gems along the coast. 

For those seeking even more action, combining your trip with skiing holiday adventures adds a thrilling dimension to a European adventure.

If you want to continue exploring, consider backpacking in Europe to immerse yourself in different cultures and landscapes. Cyclists will also enjoy the ease of travelling with a bicycle in France, making it simple to combine active travel with sightseeing across the continent.

Bucket List Travel Ideas FAQs

1 Where Are Some of the Most Popular Bucket List Travel Destinations in Europe?

Some of the most popular bucket list travel destinations in Europe include Paris and Amsterdam. Coastal regions in France and historic cities in Belgium also attract travellers who seek food, scenery, and walkable city breaks in one trip.


2 How to Plan a Bucket List Trip?
To plan a bucket list trip, start by choosing the experiences you value most, such as culture, food, or nature. Focus on a few key destinations, then add nearby places for variety. Remember to allow enough time to explore without rushing.
3 Where Are the Best Bucket List Travel Destinations?

The best bucket list travel destinations depend on travel style. City breaks suit places like Paris and Brussels. Outdoor-focused trips suit destinations like the Dutch or French coast, which offer open landscapes and scenic routes. Family trips work best in areas with short travel distances and varied activities.