World traveller and YouTuber Drew Binsky, who has visited every country on Earth, has ranked all 50 European nations, and his choice for the worst might surprise you.
Known for his vibrant documentaries on culture and travel, Binsky evaluated countries based on friendliness, affordability, cuisine, nightlife, historical wonders, and authentic cultural experiences.
Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, earned the unenviable title of Binsky’s least favourite European destination.
Despite acknowledging its fascinating monuments, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, Binsky explained that the microstate’s size and logistical challenges detracted from the experience.
“There are no hotels to stay in overnight,” he said.
“If you try to sleep on the street, you’ll get arrested. It’s a place you visit for a few hours.
“The lines are brutal, so please go earlier or buy the fast-pass tickets if you’re gonna take the tour. I think the Vatican is great to visit once, but once you go, you don’t have to go again.”
Despite its low ranking, Vatican City remains one of Europe’s most culturally and historically significant sites.
Home to the Catholic Church and the Pope, it also boasts unparalleled artistic and architectural treasures.
Visitors flock to marvel at St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest and most magnificent churches in the world, and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
The Vatican Museums house an extraordinary collection of artefacts, including ancient sculptures and Renaissance paintings.
Beyond its monuments, the Vatican holds immense spiritual importance for millions of Catholics worldwide, hosting pivotal religious events such as papal blessings and Easter celebrations in St. Peter’s Square.
On the other end of the spectrum, Binsky crowned the Czech Republic as Europe’s best destination, praising its unique blend of medieval charm and affordability.
He highlighted its cobblestone streets, stunning Gothic architecture, and £2 beers, calling it the perfect fusion of Western comfort and Eastern grunge.
Other top picks included Serbia for its warm locals and vibrant culture, Spain for its incredible nightlife and cuisine, Iceland for its jaw-dropping natural wonders, and Ukraine for its rich history and resilience.
As European leaders meet in Paris to prepare an answer to their apparent exclusion from the talks about Ukraine’s future, the existential and all encompassing
US Vice President JD Vance at the Munich (Germany) Security Conference, February 14, 2025. WOLFGANG RATTAY / REUTERS
Morning opening: Make Europe Relevant AgainJakub KrupaSnow-covered logo of Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, which concluded on Sunday. Photograph:
CNN — European leaders are gathering in France for an emergency summit on Ukraine af