The 7 Best Caves to Explore in Europe

Love an adventure? Consider cave exploring. Don’t worry about any claustrophobic small spaces here, as we’re talking about caves that can be explored via walkways, tunnels or by boat. Europe is a hotspot for several unique caves, from stalactite-covered caves and ice caves to sea caves and fairy-themed grottoes. 

Each cave features unique rock or ice formations that make for a picturesque and intriguing trip, but the question is, where do you start? With so many caves to choose from, it can be hard to figure out which one to visit first or which has the edge over the others, but we’re about to make your life a lot easier by narrowing down the best caves across Europe. 

Europe’s top caves that are begging to be explored

7. Postojna Caves, Slovenia

One of the best-loved attractions in Slovenia, the Postojna Caves are renowned for their stalactites and white stalagmites, and are revered even among the most experienced speleologists (cave attractions in Slovenia, Postojna Caves are known for their stalactites and white stalagmites, and are revered even among the most experienced speleologists (cave study/explorers). The best part about the Postojna Caves in Slovenia is that there is an experience made out of it, not just walking around the caves and leaving again. 

You can explore the cave via a train tour and experience a presentation by a knowledgeable guide who will tell you all there is to know about these caves. Experience more than 2km of underground tunnels, walkways and displays, and learn about the curious and rare olm creatures that inhabit the cave, that stories say are the offspring of dragons. 

6. Drach Caves, Mallorca

The island of Mallorca is small but vibrant, and one of its prime attractions is the Drach Caves in Porto Cristo. Hiding one of the world’s largest underground lakes, and scattered with stalagmites and stalactites, Drach caves are some of the most beautiful caves in Europe, and definitely a must-visit destination.

Around 25 metres underground and with more than 1,000 metres of cave to explore, these are probably the only caves you want to get lost in. Lake Martel also hosts live concerts that you can see included in the price of your ticket, so if the beauty of the cave isn’t enough as you take a boat trip through it, you’ll surely be entertained another way.

5. Saalfield Fairy Grottoes, Germany

Whimsical and charming, the Saalfield Fairy Grottoes were created out of old alum mines, which have since been turned into stalactite-adorned caves that you can’t miss out on exploring. Once inside, you can learn more about the cave’s mining history and how the stalactites formed, if not too busy admiring the beautiful interior of the caves. 

If you’re travelling with kids, the caves will likely be more than enough to keep you all entertained but if you want to explore even further, there are tunnels, passageways and other themed grottoes to discover too. Perfect for fantasy lovers and history enthusiasts, the Saalfield Fairy Grottoes are a must-visit.

4. Blue Grotto, Italy

Like a portal to another world, the glistening azure water inside this sea cave is something straight out of a fairytale. Accessible by row boat tour, you can enjoy a tranquil escape from the busy tourist areas of Capri, and discover the best of Italy’s natural beauty.

A hotspot for both locals and tourists, if you can handle the long wait to get inside the grotto, what you do see will be more than worth it, and will deserve to fill up your camera roll. The cave has a long history that dates back to Roman times and is steeped in legends, which you can learn more about while sitting back and admiring the beautiful sparkling depths. 

3. Fingals Cave, Scotland

Scotland is revered for its stunning natural beauty, from its vast lochs and highland valleys to its mountains and secluded islands. Another part of Scotland’s natural beauty is its caves, one of the most notable of which is the Fingals Cave on the Isle of Staffa. Best known for its unique and curious rock formations in the shape of rugged stone columns, the Fingals Cave is really a sight to behold. 

You can access the cave via boat tours, and you may be able to access the inside of the cave depending on the conditions and when permitted. The cave has been used as the setting for many films and is mentioned throughout literature. 

2. Mira de Aire Caves, Portugal

Cancel everything on your Portugal itinerary and visit these caves right now. The most important and popular cave system in Portugal, Mira de Aire caves are known for their beauty, history and unique and intriguing rock formations, and are a top spot for locals or well-versed tourists who know where to go to access them (clue: head to Mira de Aire village). Tours occur frequently and allow you to access a large chunk of the cave, all the while learning about the cave’s history and how and when they were discovered.

1. Eisriesenwelt Ice Caves, Austria

This is quite literally caves of ice and rock, with incredible ice formations and a bridge to access the key areas. Considered to be the world’s largest ice cave, Eisriesenwelt was discovered in the late 19th century and has since gone on to become one of the world’s most intriguing and popular sites. With regular tours being hosted, it’s a must-visit activity in Austria – skip the usual sightseeing or bar hopping in favour of this hidden gem that’s guaranteed to leave you in awe.