Who doesn't enjoy going out to eat? Whether it's at a simple local restaurant or a fancy one that's reserved for special occasions, dining out is typically a great experience. The pressure and stress of having to cook for the evening floats away, memorable moments are created with your loved ones, and sometimes a new dish is ordered that becomes an instant favorite. Yes, dining out is great. But, dining out in Europe is even better!

Europe is filled with so many countries steeped in history and overflowing with charm, naturally beautiful landscapes, and modern marvels. As expected then, the views from most its restaurants are breathtaking. We're talking about views of real castles, blue seas, iconic landmarks, and gigantic mountains. That alone is enough to satisfy us, but imagine taking in the view all while drinking wine and eating some of the finest cuisines. There are few things which are more romantic, breathtaking, or unforgettable than eating a meal with friends, partners, or family members in a gorgeous setting. So, are you ready to see 20 unbelievable restaurants in Europe with amazing views? We can bet they'll have you wanting to gather all the other foodies you know and book a flight!

20 Grotta Palazzese, Italy

Although all of the restaurants on this list are amazing and offer spectacular views, Grotta Palazzese is probably the most unique of them all. The reason for this is its location.

Not only is it by the seaside, but it’s in an actual limestone cave. Now, when you think of caves, you probably visualize them as a spot where bats hang out, instead of cute couples or a group of friends. But, this restaurant is about to change your view on caves.

Located in Puglia, Italy Grotta Palazzese has been open since the 18^th century and was a hotspot for Italian nobility. The restaurant is about 70 feet above the blue-green waters of the Adriatic Sea and has major romantic vibes, with its dim lighting and one-of-a-kind setting. Guests can enjoy the view while feasting on seared scallops, red shrimp, sea bass, roasted octopus, and roasted lamb. Since this is Italy we’re talking about, you can also expect a selection of fine wines on the menu. Although any time of the day would satisfy your need for perfect aesthetics, we’d recommend visiting Grotta Palazzese around sunset (that is, if you can manage to get a reservation).

19 La Jules Verne, France

When you visit Paris, a trip to the Eiffel Tower is a no-brainer. But, don’t just look at the renowned tower from the ground. Experience every bit of it that you can. There’s no other feeling like the one that overtakes you when you are on the second or third floor, looking down on the magical city. One of the best ways to enjoy this view is from a Michelin Star restaurant called La Jules Verne. It is located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, at a 125-meter height, providing sightseeing opportunities through its giant windows. Not only are the views great, but inside the restaurant is elegantly decorated as well.

There is a choice of set menus, which all focus on French cuisine. Beautifully-plated seared veal, duck foie de gras, and baked turbot are among the options. There are also interesting red and white wines from which to choose. This restaurant places an emphasis on the details, and it’s easy to see this when you receive starting bread with butter shaped like the base of the Eiffel tower. Make your reservations about two or three months in advance if you would like to guarantee yourself a table!

18 Ambrosia, Greece

If you’ve ever seen photos of Santorini, you know just how beautiful it is. To immerse yourself in the beauty of this Greek island, you should check out one of its most famous restaurants, Ambrosia.

Located in the village of Oia on the edge of a volcanic crater and overlooking the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea, this restaurant is bound to give you the experience of a lifetime.

The décor of Ambrosia is as romantic as anyone could wish for—with candles, art, antiques, and white linen all around. Not surprisingly, this is a top choice for newlyweds on their honeymoon and couples celebrating a anniversary. But, don’t let that stop you from eating here if you’re traveling solo. It’s totally worth it for the views and food. The menu is Greek gourmet cuisine (because who doesn’t want a taste of that delicious and healthy Greek food when in Greece?). It includes lamb cutlets, veal filitakia, salmon fillet, Ambrosia tarts, and more. Of course, there are also well-known Greek wines on the menu. Seriously, what more could you ask for? Did we mention how surreal the views are? You may have to ask your dining partner to pinch you to ensure you aren’t dreaming!

17 Ice Q, Austria

If you prefer vacationing and eating in places that look like a winter wonderland, then Ice Q is a must! Located in Sölden, an Alpine resort in the Austrian state of Tyrol, Ice Q offers panoramic views of the Gaislachkogl mountain. The restaurant is over 3,000 meters above sea level and is accessible via a 12-minute ride on one of the highest cable cars in the world. The architecture of the Ice Q has been impressing visitors since 2012, as the building is made of glass walls and steel, which looks stunning against the wintry backdrop. As an added bonus, it was also the location of the James Bond film Spectre! So, if you’re a Bond fan, prepare yourself to retrace your hero’s steps. Pretty cool, huh? So, what about the food? It’s just as impressive as the views and architecture! The menu features beef tartar, fish skewer, truffled chicken meatballs, apple strudel, tiramisu, and more. Notably, there is also a unique tri-country wine created by the restaurant called Pino 3000. After dining and taking a ton of photos, you can burn the calories off by skiing on the gorgeous range. A visit to Ice Q truly is an adventure!

16 Oblix, England

The Shard is one of the most eye-catching buildings in London’s landscape.

The 95-story skyscraper is the tallest in the city and the fifth tallest in Europe. Its architecture is awe-inspiring, with steel and shards of glass touching the sky.

On the 32^nd floor of this skyscraper, you’ll find a restaurant called Oblix. Its décor is sleek and it provides guests with a panoramic view of London, including the iconic Tower Bridge.

There are three unique experiences to be had at Oblix. The dining area (Oblix west) is upscale and the menu consists of British and European dishes. The dishes are known for coming from the restaurant’s charcoal grill and wood-fired oven. Some of the most popular ones are the dover sole, whole lobster, and barbecued black cod. Additionally, there is a wine station which allows guests to taste topnotch wines and create their own pairings. Oblix west also serves vegetarian dishes and donates a portion of select dishes to the charity Action Against Hunger. For a more casual evening, head over to the lounge where there is live music, a plethora of beverages, and seasonal dishes. Or, if you’re looking to completely let loose, try the Bar@east.

15 Auberge Des Cavaliers, France

Most people know what Arizona’s Grand Canyon looks like and have either added it to their bucket list or have already checked it off. But, there’s another breathtaking canyon you may not know about. In fact, it’s said to be the most beautiful canyon in Europe. Also called the Grand Canyon of France, La Gorges du Verdon is located in southeastern France. It’s a 25-kilometer-long canyon filled with foliage, cliffs, and the blue waters of the Verdon River. One of the best views of this natural wonder is from Auberge des Cavaliers, the restaurant at Hotel Grand Canyon du Verdon. This restaurant is set on a cliff and provides a panoramic view of the canyon through its large bay windows. The menu includes salmon, sirloin steak, and trout fillet with almonds.

If you decide to spend a night or two at the hotel, you can stay in one of their 10 rooms with a balcony. Or, you may want to head over to the terrace-solarium for even more stunning views. The staff would also be happy to advise you on possible excursions through the canyon, including the Imbut trail. Whether you decide to spend a few hours or a few days, you’re guaranteed to be awestruck by the beautiful views.

14 Pier Head, Ireland

Ireland is a beautiful country known for its lush green pastures and hundreds of beautiful castles. It’s also known for its beer. In fact, Ireland has the second-highest per capita consumption of beer, right behind Czech Republic. So, if you’re a fan of the brewed beverage, just imagine sipping on beer while eating scrumptious food and looking out the windows to the awesome image above. You can do so at Pier Head Restaurant, located in the picturesque port village of Kinvara. The restaurant provides an unparalleled view of Kinvara Bay, which is commonly occupied by boats and graceful swans. It also provides a view of the stunning Dunguaire Castle, as pictured above. This castle was built in the 16th century but was recently restored and now hosts nightly banquets during the summer months. After seeing the way it reflects onto the surrounding waters, you’ll easily understand why Dungauire is one of the most photographed castles in Ireland.

Oh, and the food? That's right, it’s just as impressive as the view. You can pick from deep-fried Brie served with grape sauce, tempura squid served with coconut dip, tiger prawns served with white wine sauce, and honey-roast half duck. We’ll take one of each, please.

13 La Pergola, Italy

Practically every restaurant in Rome will have amazing views. That’s because nearly every building in Rome is architecturally beautiful and has an interesting history behind it. But, there is one restaurant that stands out, and that’s La Pergola. Located high on a hill in the luxurious Rome Cavalieri (Waldorf Astoria) hotel, this restaurant is award-winning and is the only one in Rome that boasts three Michelin stars. It offers panoramic views of the eternal city, including the magnificent dome of St. Peter’s Basilica (which is lit up at night). The interior of the restaurant has a renaissance feeling to it, with carved artwork lining the walls and bone china vases perched on the window sills.

Sounds expensive already, doesn’t it? The restaurant offers a 10-course tasting menu for about €260 or a 7-course menu for €225. But, according to visitors, it’s worth it!

Some of the dishes include leg of lamb with mushrooms, rabbit tortellini, white asparagus with squid, and an iced sphere of pomegranate on cream. The dishes are all beautifully plated as well. But, since this is a rather high-class restaurant, you may not want to pull out your phone to take pictures for the ‘gram (or, if you must, do so discretely!).

12 Torre D'alta Mar, Spain

Barcelona is one of the most populous cities in Europe and is a top tourist destination, so one would expect the city to have great restaurants. Indeed, Barcelona does not disappoint. There is one restaurant which rivals no other in the city, called Torre D’Alta Mar. It offers guests spectacular views of the city along with delicious food. Torre D’Alta Mar occupies the top floor of the Torre Sant Sebastià tower, 78 meters above Barcelona’s Port Vell. Upon your arrival, a doorman will usher you into a glass elevator which smoothly and quickly transports you to the spacious, circular restaurant. From its glass windows, you can see the entire city, including the sparkling Mediterranean Sea dotted with boats, surrounding hills, the Columbus Monument, and the charming buildings of the Gothic Quarter. Just imagine the view in the evening, with all the twinkling lights!

The restaurant has a modern vibe and is tastefully decorated with iron beams, rivets, swivel chairs, and clothed tables. The Mediterranean-focused menu includes creamy seafood rice, octopus with miso crumble, beef sirloin, and wild turbot. Also listed on the gourmet menu is red wine, white wine, and Spanish wine (cava).

11 Restaurant Edelweiss, Switzerland

If you’re not a movie buff or a traveler who frequents quaint European villages, then you may not have heard about Mürren, Switzerland. It’s a mountain village at the foot of Schilthorn peak in the Bernese Alps. It’s here that you’ll discover the restaurant at hotel Edelweiss, appropriately called Restaurant Edelweiss. The restaurant, and in fact, the entire village of Mürren, is only accessible by a 32-minute scenic cable car ride. From the restaurant and sun terrace, you’ll be able to see various mountain summits in the range. And those peaks are quite something! One of them, the Jungfrau, has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its diverse ecosystem and the role it has played in European culture. It’s truly a sight to behold in both the winter and summer. The restaurant is thankfully open year-round to accommodate your preference.

While taking in the views, you’ll be chowing down air-dried meats, cheese, spaghetti Bolognese, veggie burgers, hamburgers, Swiss chicken breast, or chicken cordon bleu. Did we mention cheese? If there’s one food product Switzerland is known for, it’s cheese! Fortunately, Restaurant Edelweiss has no shortage of it. There’s actually cheese fondue on the menu...and we are just about ready to book our flight!

10 Piz Gloria, Switzerland

Another gem of Mürren is the revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria. In the sixth installment of the James Bond series, the restaurant served as the hideout for the villain, Ernst Blofeld. The movie production team actually contributed to the restaurant’s completion, as it was still being constructed while they were filming. The restaurant has acknowledged this by creating a James Bond exhibition named “007 Walk of Fame,” which contains memorabilia and film clips.

But, movie fans aren’t the only ones who will get a kick out this restaurant. Anyone who appreciates a spectacular view will too. Piz Gloria is one of the highest revolving restaurants in the world.

So, from about 10,000 feet high, you’ll be able to see Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau and over 200 other summits when you stay for the duration of its 360-degree rotation (about 45 minutes). That in itself is worth the trip. But, on top of it all, you also have the chance to feast on some tasty dishes and drink Bollinger (dubbed “the champagne of James Bond”). Some of the menu items are Riggli “Käseschnitte (bread with melted cheese topping) with optional add-ons, Rösti (potato pancakes) with smoked salmon and sour cream, pork schnitzel, and various pies.

9 Le Panoramic, France

If you’ve already been to Switzerland or are planning a trip to France, we’ve got to let you know about another restaurant with mountain views that dreams are made of. Le Panoramic is located at Brevent ski resort on Mont Blanc in Chamonix, and it is one of the best places to immerse yourself in the famous mountains. Since 1948, Le Panoramic has been living up to its name, providing panoramic views with its open-air concept. Again, you’ll need to take a cable car up to the summit, which means you can check multiple things off of your bucket list during your trip.

The restaurant serves regional dishes, which include caviar, foie gras, traditional hot melted cheese with black truffle and potatoes, sausage with wine, and crème brûlée. Their menu won us over at “hot melted cheese.” Again, you don’t even need to worry about counting calories because there is so much to do at the resort, from skiing to snowboarding to ice climbing. Even if you go in the summer, you can hike or rock climb nearby. Are you sold yet?

8 Strofi, Greece

Since 1975, Strofi has been serving up traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes under the hill of the Acropolis.

Through its large windows or from its rooftop terrace, you’ll have an unobstructed view of the ancient Parthenon, the most easily identifiable structure in Athens.

The best time to visit Strofi (especially for a romantic meal) is during the evening, when candles adorn the linen-covered tables and lights illuminate the Parthenon. It’s no wonder that it was, and still is, a popular spot for celebrities such as Liz Taylor and opera singer Maria Callas.

To get started on your gastronomic adventure at Strofi, you can have a taste of yogurt with cucumber and garlic, octopus in olive oil, smoked eggplant salad, or feta cheese in phyllo pastry. For the main meal, choose from a selection of grilled meats, fish fillet, veal stew, pork fillet stuffed with cheese and tomatoes, and lamb wrapped in vine leaves. Finally, finish off with something sweet! The dessert menu features baklavas, milk pie, walnut pie, and orange pie. As with the other restaurants on this list, you can also expect an extended wine list. A meal at Strofi is the perfect way to end a busy day exploring the ruins of ancient Athens!

7 Grillið, Iceland

Located on the eighth floor of the Radisson Blu Saga Hotel in Reykjavik, Grillið restaurant does not disappoint. The restaurant has been in business since 1962, and there’s a good reason for that. Through its wide windows, it offers a panoramic view over the capital city of Iceland. Have we mentioned that Reykjavik’s landscape is absolutely incredible? If you’re traveling to Iceland from another country, you’ll feel as though you’re going to another planet altogether. It’s actually surreal that Iceland has such a wide variety of landscapes, from hot springs to lava to waterfalls and glaciers. From your seat in Grillið restaurant, you can see the surrounding mountains and seas. It’s really something to behold and must be experienced in person.

The menus at Grillið are as unique as Iceland. You can choose from a set of six or four-course menu. The six-course menu includes lumpfish roe with elderflower soured cream, crispy sunchoke with chicken liver, king crab poached in miso with seabuckthorn berries, potato bread with cep butter, dover sole and wild garlic, hand-dived scallop, aromatic lamb broth, grilled beef tenderloin, an almond ice cream parfait with raspberry juice, and honey ice cream.

6 Hutong, England

As previously mentioned, The Shard is home to Oblix. But, it’s also home to many other great restaurants (five others, to be exact). On the 33rd floor, or one floor above Oblix, you’ll find Hutong, an award-winning restaurant that serves Northern Chinese cuisine. Some of the items on the menu include pan-fried wagyu beef buns, Halibut Red Star noodles, Shanghai soup dumplings, scallop and prawn wontons, Po-style whole lobster, and crispy eel. If that doesn’t make your mouth start watering, we don’t know what will! The views from Hutong are exactly as amazing as you’d expect after reading about Oblix.

From the restaurant, you can see Tower Bridge and all its surrounding buildings through floor-to-ceiling windows. Apparently, even the views from the washroom are great! It’s no wonder that Hutong has won so many awards; it really takes the dining experience to a new level.

The interior of the restaurant is stylish and decorated with traditionally Chinese pieces, including red lanterns and hand-carved wooden Moon Gates. The restaurant is open seven days a week to satisfy any cravings you might be having when you’re in London. We’d recommend visiting Hutong in the evening to watch the sun set over the Thames.

5 Ristorante La Sponda, Italy

La Sponda looks like a scene straight from a movie, doesn’t it? The restaurant–known as one of the most romantic in the world–is located in Le Sirenuse Hotel in Positano. To set the romantic mood, there is live music and 400 candles are lit every evening. But, even without the music and candles, the setting is absolutely breathtaking. Inside, green vines cover the restaurant’s white columns. Outside, the fresh air of the Mediterranean Sea blows softly and flowers decorate the tables. In both areas of the restaurant, there are jaw-dropping views of the blue water and house-lined cliffs of the iconic Amalfi Coast.

The menu changes seasonally but is always bound to impress. The dishes include grilled and fried Mediterranean specialties, such as octopus and cod. There are also shellfish, various pastas, and rice. The restaurant even features a Champagne & Oyster Bar, which is open in the evening from May to October. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, we must mention that there’s also a Pool Bar lined with lemon trees. Lunch is served here daily, and the bar tables are shaded by a bamboo awning. It’s no surprise that the restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star.

4 Nautika, Croatia

Nautika Restaurant is housed in the former Dubrovnik School of Maritime Studies and sits  right at the edge of the sea in Dubrovnik. While you’ll have a splendid view of the Adriatic Sea, that isn’t the only unique view that you’ll be lucky to have. The restaurant is also located near the fortresses of Lovrijenac and Bokar.

That’s right, you can dine under the stars while admiring a castle and the water! It’s no wonder that in 2008, Nautika Restaurant was recognized as the sixth most romantic restaurant in the world by Condé Nast Traveller magazine.

The main dishes on the seafood-centered menu include lobster tail, Sea Bass fillet, tuna fillet, and shrimp soup. But, there are other delicious meat options as well (if seafood is not your thing). For example, there is veal fillet, lamb cutlet, and beef fillet. The desserts are enticing too, with The Adriatic Chocolate Fantasy being one of the most popular choices among visitors.

3 Marina Restaurant, Prague

Prague is the largest city in the Czech Republic, as well as one of the most well-known. It is typically associated with castles, beers, and beautiful landscapes. Marina Restaurant offers all of that and more. First of all, the restaurant is unique in the sense that it is a floating one. The building it now occupies was formerly riverboat housing and sits on the Vltava River, which is the longest river in the Czech Republic. Second of all, the views from the restaurant’s open deck on the upper floor are absolutely stunning. You’ll have one of the best seats for viewing Prague Castle, the largest coherent castle complex in the world, and Charles Bridge, a beautiful stone Gothic bridge built in 1357. Even if the weather doesn’t permit being on the open deck, you can still have a view of the landmarks from a window seat on the first floor.

The landmarks aren’t the only thing you’ll be able to see, though. The restaurant has an exhibition kitchen, so guests can see their delicious meals being prepared.

The menu at Marina Restaurant is Italian-based, with dishes such as creamy seafood risotto, potato gnocchi, grilled shrimp skewer with pineapple, grilled Rib eye steak, and pizza (because what’s more Italian than that?).

2 Restaurant Les Ombres, France

So far, we’ve listed about three restaurants in France, with one being on the Eiffel Tower itself. But when you’re on the tower itself, you can only see parts of the structure. So, your main view would be the rivers and buildings in the city. Don’t get us wrong, the view of Paris from the tower is beyond amazing and is something everyone should experience. But, what about if you want to see the oh-so-famous Eiffel Tower while you’re eating? Well, that is exactly why you should visit a restaurant located on the rooftop of Musée du Quai Branly, called Les Ombres (or “the Shadows”). The view of the tower from this restaurant is incomparable, and when you’re dining there, you’ll completely understand why it got its name. It literally is within the shadows of the iconic landmark. Of course, you’ll also have views of other Parisian landmarks.

Les Ombres has both an indoor dining area and a terrace, which is perfect for mild or warm days. The menu may be best described as classic French cuisine with an exotic twist. Some dishes you’ll definitely want to try are chicken supreme with macaroni gratin, half-cooked duck foie gras, and poached egg with squid in tempura.

1 Ristorante Aroma, Italy

There will never be a lack of admiration for the city of Rome. It sure was not built in one day and it shows. At every corner, you’ll find ancient buildings with details beyond anything you could have ever imagined. So, you should expect to find no shortage of restaurants with a great view in the eternal city. Our top pick would have to be Restaurant Aroma,

which is located across from the Colosseum at Palazzo Manfredi. The 28-seat outdoor terrace is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner and pictures (of course!). There is just something majestic about seeing the Colosseum in person (and having a meal while doing so) that is guaranteed to give you the feels.

Maybe it’s the fact that it was built almost 2,000 years ago or that it was the largest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire. Whatever it is, we just know that you’ll want to relive the day over and over again.

Since 2010, Restaurant Aroma has been serving up classic Italian dishes, and the owner supports sustainability. This is reflected in the restaurant’s menu, which includes local produce and does not include tuna. Some specific dishes include scorpionfish and sea robin, braised pigeon with mustard flavor, and crab salad with mango sauce. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

References: eupedia.com, grottapalazzese.it, restaurant-ambrosia.com, the-shard.com, nautikarestaurants.com