5 Stargazing Holidays in Europe: A Cozy, Soulful Experience

Have you ever felt that calming sense of wonder when you stare up at the night sky, watching the stars twinkle and shift across the heavens? There’s something incredibly grounding and intimate about stargazing, especially when it’s paired with the peaceful surroundings of Europe’s most serene destinations. Imagine unwinding after a gentle hike, enjoying a delicious dinner under the stars, or even joining a yoga retreat where the night sky becomes part of your meditation. If you’re a mindful traveler like me, seeking slow travel and quiet, personal experiences, stargazing holidays are the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

In this blog post, I’m diving into some of Europe’s hidden gems for stargazing, but with a twist: we’re not just talking about the best viewing spots. We’re talking cozy, thoughtful experiences, like dining with the stars, hiking under the night sky, or even blending stargazing with yoga for the ultimate reflective retreat. Let’s slow down and explore how to combine the wonders of the universe with mindful travel.

1. A Cozy, Candlelit Dinner Under the Stars – Tuscany, Italy

Picture this: you’re sitting at a beautifully set table in the middle of the Tuscan countryside, the air is crisp, and the only light you see comes from the candles flickering gently on the table. Above you, the night sky is a blanket of stars, and the rolling hills around you are bathed in a peaceful quiet. After a day of slow exploration in the vineyards and olive groves, this is the perfect way to end the evening.

Tuscany offers some of the clearest skies in Europe, making it an excellent destination for stargazing. But here’s the twist—find a restaurant that offers “dinner under the stars” experiences. Many boutique spots around Tuscany set up tables outdoors, giving you the chance to enjoy authentic, locally-sourced meals while gazing up at constellations. One of my favorites is in the Chianti region, where you can join a stargazing dinner that pairs a delicious meal with guided star tours from local astronomers. It’s an intimate and sensory experience—perfect for those looking to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

Do your research: For the best experience, look for places in the rural areas where light pollution is minimal, allowing the stars to shine brighter.

2. Night Hiking with a Star Guide – The Alps, Switzerland

If you’re more of the adventurous type, why not mix stargazing with hiking? The Swiss Alps offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, and hiking under a starlit sky is an experience you’ll never forget. There are several small-scale hiking tours that focus on nighttime adventures, where you trek through the mountains while your guide shares stories about the stars and constellations.

I love the idea of combining a peaceful hike with the chance to disconnect from the noise of daily life. These night hikes usually start at sunset, allowing you to witness the transition from day to night, and end with the awe of the Milky Way stretched across the sky. The beauty of the Alps at night is beyond words—it’s both humbling and rejuvenating.

Remember: If you’re not a frequent hiker, look for easy-to-moderate trails to enjoy the best of both worlds without feeling rushed. You’ll also want to bring a good thermos of tea and warm layers for the crisp alpine air.

3. Yoga Under the Stars – The Canary Islands, Spain

For those seeking relaxation and a deeper connection with themselves and nature, yoga retreats in the Canary Islands are an incredible way to stargaze. These islands have clear skies year-round, and many yoga retreats offer sessions that are timed to coincide with sunset and stargazing. Imagine unwinding after a calming vinyasa flow, lying on your mat with the stars above, and meditating in the stillness of the night.

There are several resorts on the islands of La Palma and Tenerife where you can join wellness retreats that include stargazing. After your yoga practice, you can join astronomy workshops, learn about the constellations, or even partake in nighttime beach walks under the stars. It’s the perfect balance of movement and stillness, allowing you to connect with both your inner peace and the vastness of the universe.

Hot Tip: Book your retreat in advance to secure a spot at one of the resorts offering dedicated stargazing nights. Don’t forget to pack your favorite mat, a warm scarf, and maybe even a blanket to curl up in as you watch the sky.

4. A Hidden Gem for Stargazing – The Dark Sky Park of the Azores, Portugal

The Azores are one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, offering stunning, unspoiled natural beauty that’s perfect for a slow, reflective getaway. These islands are part of the Dark Sky Park program, which means they offer exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. What makes the Azores even more special is the combination of lush green landscapes and the expansive night sky. Whether you're enjoying a tranquil evening on a remote beach or on a mountain hike, the stars here feel especially close.

For an immersive experience, consider booking a stay at one of the charming boutique hotels or eco-lodges in the region. Some of them offer stargazing packages that include private telescope sessions, guided sky tours, and even storytelling around a campfire. These intimate experiences allow you to connect deeply with both nature and the cosmos.

Ps! Don’t miss the chance to visit Pico Island, where the night sky is often so clear that you feel like you could reach out and touch the stars.

5. Stargazing & Wine Tasting – Douro Valley, Portugal

The Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and breathtaking views, is not only a place to sip world-class wine during the day, but also an ideal location for stargazing at night. Some of the vineyards here offer evening wine-tasting experiences that end with a guided tour of the stars. These exclusive, off-the-beaten-path experiences are often intimate, with small groups gathering at the highest point of a vineyard to gaze at the constellations above while savoring a glass of port.

We recommend: For a truly cozy experience, book a stay at a vineyard estate. You’ll be able to walk through the vineyards at sunset, taste local wines, and then enjoy the stars without the distraction of city lights.

Will your next vacation be filled with stars?

Stargazing isn’t just about looking up at the night sky—it’s about slowing down, disconnecting, and letting the world around you remind you of life’s simple joys. Whether you choose a candlelit dinner in Tuscany, a mindful yoga retreat in the Canary Islands, or a hidden stargazing paradise in the Azores, Europe offers some magical experiences for those who crave tranquility and a deeper connection to nature.

If you’re feeling inspired to embrace the quiet beauty of Europe’s night skies, I hope this post has given you some ideas for your next stargazing holiday!