Wildlife in Europe’s national parks, including a red deer in the Scottish Highlands, brown bears in the Carpathians, and birds in Doñana National Park.

Europe is home to an extraordinary array of national parks teeming with diverse wildlife. From majestic red deer to soaring eagles and elusive brown bears, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the continent’s natural wonders. Here are the best national parks in Europe for wildlife spotting and how to make the most of your visit.


1. Cairngorms National Park (Scotland)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Red deer, golden eagles, and pine martens.
  • The iconic capercaillie, one of the rarest birds in the UK.

Why Visit:
The largest national park in the UK, Cairngorms offers stunning Highland scenery and diverse habitats, from ancient woodlands to vast mountain ranges.

Pro Tip: Visit during dawn or dusk for the best chance of spotting red deer and golden eagles in action.


2. Doñana National Park (Spain)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Flamingos, imperial eagles, and lynxes.
  • Seasonal migrations bring thousands of bird species to the wetlands.

Why Visit:
Located in southern Spain, Doñana’s mix of marshes, forests, and dunes makes it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Pro Tip: Join a guided tour for the best access to restricted areas teeming with wildlife.


3. Bavarian Forest National Park (Germany)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Lynxes, wolves, and otters.
  • Home to several species of woodpeckers and other rare birds.

Why Visit:
As Germany’s first national park, the Bavarian Forest combines pristine wilderness with modern conservation efforts, offering opportunities to see elusive predators in their natural habitat.

Pro Tip: Visit the park’s wildlife enclosures for an up-close view of native animals.


4. Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Brown bears, wild boars, and European otters.
  • Vibrant bird species like herons and kingfishers.

Why Visit:
Known for its cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes, Plitvice also shelters a rich variety of wildlife within its lush forests and waterways.

Pro Tip: Hike early in the morning to experience the park’s beauty and spot wildlife before crowds arrive.


5. Carpathian Mountains (Romania)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Brown bears, wolves, and lynxes.
  • Bird species like eagles, owls, and black storks.

Why Visit:
Often referred to as Europe’s last wilderness, the Carpathians are a haven for large carnivores and a must-visit for adventurous wildlife seekers.

Pro Tip: Book a wildlife tour with experienced guides to safely observe bears and wolves.


6. Sarek National Park (Sweden)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Reindeer, Arctic foxes, and moose.
  • A hotspot for migratory birds during the summer.

Why Visit:
This remote park in Swedish Lapland offers an untouched Arctic wilderness ideal for spotting reindeer herds and other northern species.

Pro Tip: Visit in summer for endless daylight and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.


7. Hortobágy National Park (Hungary)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Bustards, cranes, and water buffalo.
  • Seasonal migrations bring thousands of cranes to the park.

Why Visit:
As Europe’s largest continuous natural grassland, Hortobágy offers a unique ecosystem where traditional herding coexists with incredible biodiversity.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the autumn crane migration, a spectacular natural event.


8. Vanoise National Park (France)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Ibex, chamois, and marmots.
  • Golden eagles and bearded vultures soaring overhead.

Why Visit:
Nestled in the French Alps, Vanoise National Park combines rugged mountain beauty with thriving populations of Alpine wildlife.

Pro Tip: Use the park’s extensive trail network to access prime wildlife observation points.


9. Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park (Spain)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Pyrenean chamois, griffon vultures, and otters.
  • Rich floral biodiversity with endemic plants.

Why Visit:
This UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Pyrenees offers dramatic landscapes and a chance to encounter rare species unique to the region.

Pro Tip: Plan your visit in spring when the park’s flowers are in full bloom and wildlife is most active.


10. Gran Paradiso National Park (Italy)

Wildlife Highlights:

  • Ibex, chamois, and red foxes.
  • Birds like golden eagles and rock partridges.

Why Visit:
Established as Italy’s first national park, Gran Paradiso is a wildlife sanctuary offering dramatic Alpine scenery and thriving populations of ibex.

Pro Tip: Visit in early autumn for the best chances of seeing animals preparing for winter.


Europe’s national parks offer unparalleled opportunities to connect with nature and witness extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether you’re tracking red deer in Scotland or spotting bears in Romania, each park provides a unique adventure. Grab your binoculars and start exploring!