Next in the ranking as the second-best slow travel hotspot of Europe, with an impressive overall slow travel score of 79.4 out of 100, is Spain. Each month, an average of 1,830 online searches are made by aspiring travellers looking for terms related to slow travelling in Spain, proving this destination is a popular one. In 2022, Spain's Tourism Board even launched a #SlowTravelSpain campaign encouraging the end of harmful impacts on communities and the environment from tourism.
Hiking and cycling are great ways to practise this and with 171 cycling tours in Spain and an incredible 866 hiking trails to explore, such as passing through famous windmills of Consuegr and even exploring the small towns and villages untouched by mass tourism. With 477 wildlife tours to choose from there is plenty to see and learn, you might even be lucky enough to see the breathtaking view of the “pink carpet” in Andalusia’s Doñana National Park, created by colonies of flamingos when they feed.
Spain also has 500 spectacular lakes, including Lago Azul in Burgos, which may appear small, but is attached to the biggest underwater cave in Spain given the nickname “Everest” as parts of the cave are still unmapped and even undiscovered.
Of the 83,377 mountains in Spain, only eight are higher than 1,500m. The Picos de Europa is a mountainous national park located in the north of Spain and is one of the least known and most underrated areas of the country. Culture Trip dubbed them a “natural sanctuary” and “the perfect place to get away from everything and relax”; very fitting for a slow travel trip. To top it all off, Spain has 684 outdoor activities on offer, leaving little room to get bored, and little reason to visit the common tourist spots!

With an overall score of 62.7, Norway is the fourth-best slow-travel hotspot in Europe. The topic of slow travel in Norway receives an average of 4,380 monthly online searches, proving the high demand for a trendy trip in this location.
Norway has the most mountains of all European countries analysed, with an astounding 161,650 to admire. The second-largest city in Norway, Bergen has even been nicknamed ‘the city of seven mountains’ because of the seven mountains that surround it, making it a great place for any slow-travelling mountaineers to explore! Of the 161,650 mountains in Norway, only six are higher than 1,500m, perfect for any slow travellers in search of some adventure.
Norway also has 245 nature and wildlife tours, with Loften being especially notable for an abundance of fish in the sea, and incredible wildlife all around. Here you can find tours on electric-powered ships to reduce harmful impact and protect the nature you are admiring, which is precisely what slow travelling is all about. There are 20,000 lakes in Norway, perfect for an invigorating kayaking adventure in the summer months or a refreshing dip when the weather is cooler.
Norway is ideal for hikers too, having 329 different trails to choose from. Guided hikes are available in some locations for beginners, which is also a great way to interact with locals and learn even more about the path under your feet. Norway hosts big cycling events, such as the Arctic Race, however, if a more casual cycle is your style, there are 21 cycling tours available so be sure to rent a bike and experience the culture - it is the locals’ favourite way to get around! There is plenty of opportunity for outdoor activities too, and while you don't want to be rushed around on a schedule, it is great to book in and have a hands-on experience of how the locals enjoy their free time, there is an impressive 329 activities to choose from after all.

Lake Como in Italy tops the ranking as the most popular lake in the world, with an overall score of 90 out of 100. Its fame extends far and wide, with a staggering 739,600,000 views on TikTok, making it the most-viewed lake in the world! Further proving the popularity of Lake Como, on TripAdvisor it has received 1,284 excellent reviews. You will find 632 restaurants within 3 miles of the lake, with a great variety of renowned eateries and lesser-known hidden gem spots offering delicious local cuisine. There are 299 attractions near the lake, such as renting a boat to explore and immerse yourself in all of its beauty.

Lake Bled in Slovenia is the third most popular lake in the world, given a brilliant score of 81 out of 100. In a three-mile radius of the lake, there are 95 restaurants to choose from, as well as 90 attractions to keep you entertained. Lake Bled has more excellent reviews than any other lake in the top ten, with 7,423 on TripAdvisor, proving that visitors are extremely satisfied with the lake. On TikTok, Lake Bled has 15,900,000 views, proving its popularity with the next generation of travellers too.

Lake Lucerne in Switzerland is the fifth-best lake in the world, receiving a respectable overall score of 77 out of 100. Nearby to the lake, there are 126 attractions and 522 restaurants within three miles, keeping your day full of options. This lake has 3,960 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and has racked up 29,800,000 views on TikTok, proving its beauty and popularity.