Best Places in Europe for Yoga Enthusiasts
At In Your Pocket, we won’t pretend to be yoga experts; that would be insincere, and our travel guide empire is built on authenticity. It simply wouldn’t align with our brand. Interestingly, our status as yoga novices allows us to evaluate yoga across Europe with a fresh perspective and slightly stiff bodies. Yoga is expanding throughout the continent, from Iceland to Istanbul and Latvia to Lisbon, offering a variety of styles and environments. Planning to practice yoga this summer? Don’t forget your workout gear, book your tickets, and prepare for some tranquility.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a must-visit destination for many, although yoga may not be the first thing that comes to mind. The island's iconic blue roofs, whitewashed buildings, and stunning sea views are its main attractions, but these features also create an ideal setting for yoga. Santorini has emerged as one of the world’s premier yoga destinations, attracting a stream of Instagram-worthy young individuals practicing on its beaches in a dreamy haze of positivity. However, don’t let our skepticism deter you. If you’re searching for an ideal yoga spot in Europe, Santorini definitely deserves consideration.
Bohinj, Slovenia
Feel free to add the common remark about Bohinj being favored over Bled; we’re honestly a bit tired of the comparison. Both lakes are stunning and worthy of attention, but if you're looking for activities, Bohinj comes out on top. There are numerous beautiful locations for yoga in and around the lake, as Bohinj increasingly emphasizes sustainability in both business and wellness. SUP (standup paddleboarding) yoga is gaining popularity in the area, so venture out onto the water for your stretches before enjoying the wellness offerings at ECO Hotel Bohinj.
Tuscany, Italy
We believe we’ve figured this out. At first, it may feel nearly impossible to pull yourself away from the stunning vineyards of Tuscany, but we have a solution. If you squeeze in a yoga session before visiting the vineyards, you can feel justified indulging in some wine. That’s how it works, right? It might be a bit of a stretch (pun intended), but the iconic rolling hills of Tuscany create an ideal setting for morning yoga. The region boasts numerous yoga retreats, some of which blend yoga with Pilates to offer a well-rounded experience and even more reasons to enjoy the wine. Go ahead, you’ve earned it!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Just when you thought Iceland couldn’t get any more hipster-friendly, it surprises you with its fantastic yoga offerings. In many ways, Iceland resembles your ex-partner’s new love interest—better looking, more accomplished, and yet quirkier and funnier than seems reasonable. Yes, you read that right: yoga in Iceland. Icelanders are among the healthiest individuals globally, and while the abundance of fresh food and clean air contributes to this, the rising popularity of yoga plays a significant role as well. A diverse array of yoga styles has emerged in Iceland, ranging from cold yoga to bungee yoga, making the country an increasingly sought-after destination for customized yoga retreats. And yes, yoga amid Icelandic nature is indeed available.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of Europe’s most captivating destinations, a vibrant city filled with history, culture, entertainment, and mouthwatering food. As the Catalonian capital, it’s also a popular yoga hotspot on the continent, which isn’t particularly surprising. With options ranging from beach yoga to mountain stretching, Barcelona offers plenty of opportunities for practice. Additionally, there are numerous studios and schools within the city for those seeking a more structured experience.
Berlin, Germany
Staying with the obvious, Berlin is another immensely popular city among yoga enthusiasts. Can “yoga” and “wild” coexist in the same sentence? We’re not entirely sure, but the German capital has long been a magnet for diverse lifestyles and interests. Yoga has been a significant part of the culture here for decades, and the offerings in the city have been compared to its nightlife—not because of any wild, all-night aspect, although 24-hour yoga is likely available. Berlin hosts a wide range of yoga styles, from Ashtanga to Vinyasa and many others.
Vis, Croatia
Yoga in Croatia hasn’t gained the traction some anticipated, but this might actually work in its favor. The country’s numerous islands offer a limited selection of yoga options, with Vis emerging as the top choice. This island enjoys a more relaxed pace compared to Hvar, Korčula, and others, making it a favored destination for yoga retreats. Vis prioritizes authenticity, maintaining tranquil streets that create an ideal atmosphere for peaceful stretching by the sea.