Europe's lighthouses are a great travel goal thanks to their ocean views, history and calm surroundings. Some have been working for centuries and can be climbed inside. This guide describes three different lighthouses that are easy to add to a European trip.
🇮🇪 Hook Lighthouse, Ireland
Hook Lighthouse stands on the Wexford coast and is considered one of the oldest working lighthouses; its history goes back to the Middle Ages. The drive from Dublin takes about 2-2.5 hours. You can climb inside on a guided tour, and you should check the ticket price on the website. For the city see Tbilisi to Dublin: Ireland's Capital Guide.
🇪🇸 Tower of Hercules, A Coruña
The Tower of Hercules is in north-western Spain and is described as the oldest working Roman lighthouse in the world. It has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 2009 and is about 55 metres tall. From the top you get a wide view of the Atlantic Ocean.
🇵🇹 Cape St. Vincent, Portugal
Cabo de São Vicente is the south-western edge of Europe, where the ocean meets you with strong wind and cliffs. From Faro the drive takes about 1.5 hours, so it fits well into an Algarve trip. For the city see Tbilisi to Faro: Southern Portugal Guide.
📅 When to go
- May-September — calmer weather and long days
- Autumn — dramatic waves, but the wind is strong
- Evening — sunset light and the best time for photos
- Winter — tour hours are reduced at some lighthouses
🚗 How to get there
You will mostly reach lighthouses by car, because public transport is rare. Rules and required documents are described in Road Trips in Europe: Driving Rules.
The wind on a rocky edge is strong. Do not go past the fence and bring warm clothes.
For other sights read Europe's Most Beautiful Lakes and Europe's Waterfalls. Check flight prices on Travel365's price calendar.
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