Top 5 Best Gardens in Europe for 2025: Inspired by Monty Don's Gardens of the UK
If you're a fan of Monty Don’s Gardens of the UK, you’ll know how deeply he connects with the history, beauty, and magic of gardens. But beyond the UK, gardens worldwide also offer breathtaking experiences. For garden lovers seeking inspiration beyond British borders, here are our favourite garden-inspired tours that will transport you to some of the most spectacular flower-filled destinations.
Córdoba: The Patio Festival
Córdoba, in southern Spain, is famous for its stunning patios—private courtyards filled with cascading flowers, ferns, and vines. Every year in May, the city hosts the Córdoba Patio Festival, where locals open their beautiful courtyards to the public, showcasing the vibrant explosion of colours and scents. With the sun-kissed Mediterranean backdrop, this celebration of flowers is a sight to behold, where each courtyard offers its own unique story of Andalusian charm.
Learn more about this garden-inspired festival here: Córdoba Patio Festival
Keukenhof: The Dutch Bulb Extravaganza
Located in the heart of the Netherlands, Keukenhof is arguably the world’s most famous flower garden. Known for its vast, vibrant displays of tulips, it’s a true floral paradise. In spring, the park’s 79 acres explode with colour, with millions of bulbs blooming in intricate patterns and designs. Perfect for those seeking a sensory overload of blooms in every shade imaginable, Keukenhof provides a breathtaking tour of Dutch horticultural excellence.
Discover more about this spectacular tour here: Keukenhof - The Dutch Bulbs
Catalan Coast: Girona Flower Festival
The Catalan Coast offers more than just stunning seaside views—its inland region, particularly Girona, is home to the annual Flower Festival. The streets of this medieval city are transformed into a floral wonderland, with hundreds of flower installations adorning historical buildings, public spaces, and gardens. The combination of ancient architecture and brilliant blooms creates a truly magical atmosphere that recalls Monty Don’s appreciation for the interplay between nature and human craftsmanship.
Find out more about the Girona Flower Festival here: Catalan Coast Girona Flower Festival
Madeira: A Botanical Haven
Madeira, the lush island off the coast of Portugal, is often referred to as the "floating garden of the Atlantic." With its subtropical climate, it’s an ideal destination for garden enthusiasts. The island is famous for its rich diversity of flora, from the vibrant flowers of Monte Palace to the stunning botanical gardens of Quinta da Boa Vista. Whether strolling through the levadas (historic irrigation channels) or exploring the mountainous landscapes, Madeira offers a year-round floral escape.
Explore this beautiful destination here: Madeira in Bloom
Andalucía: The Heart of Spanish Gardens
Andalucía, the southern region of Spain, is home to some of the most enchanting gardens in the world. From the Alhambra in Granada, with its intricate Moorish designs, to the sprawling gardens of the Alcázar in Seville, Andalucía offers a rich cultural heritage reflected in its verdant landscapes. The interplay of water, stone, and lush greenery in these gardens offers a serene atmosphere that’s steeped in history and beauty. Andalucía is a destination for those who want to discover the timeless elegance of Spanish gardens.
Uncover the beauty of Andalucía here: Andalucia - Gardens of Spain
These destinations highlight the diverse, global beauty of gardens—from the tulip fields of Keukenhof to the fragrant courtyards of Córdoba. Whether you’re interested in a festival of flowers or a tranquil botanical retreat, these garden-inspired tours offer unforgettable experiences for any nature lover. Happy exploring!
