Where to See Whales in Europe? Europe is home to some of the world’s best whale-watching destinations, offering incredible opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you’re looking for sperm whales in the Atlantic or orcas in the Arctic, here are seven must-visit locations for an unforgettable whale-watching experience.
Where to See Whales in Europe? 7 Destinations You Can Choose From
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Azores, Portugal
Known as one of the world’s top whale-watching destinations, the Azores archipelago offers sightings of sperm whales, blue whales, and fin whales, particularly between March and June. São Miguel, Pico, and Faial are among the best islands for guided tours.
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Tenerife, Spain
The Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife, are famous for their resident population of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins. Unlike other destinations, whale watching here is possible all year round, thanks to the island’s unique geography and warm waters.
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Liguria, Italy
The Pelagos Sanctuary in the Ligurian Sea is a prime spot for whale watching in the Mediterranean. This marine-protected area is home to fin whales, sperm whales, and several dolphin species. The best time to visit is between May and September, when the waters are calmer and sightings are more frequent.
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Tromsø, Norway
For a unique Arctic whale-watching experience, Tromsø is the place to go. From November to January, you can witness orcas and humpback whales hunting for herring in the stunning Norwegian fjords. It’s also a great time to see the Northern Lights.
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Húsavík, Iceland
Dubbed the whale-watching capital of Europe, Húsavík is renowned for its high success rate in spotting humpback whales, minke whales, and even blue whales. The best time to visit is between April and October, when the waters are teeming with marine life.
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Madeira Island, Portugal
Madeira is one of the best places in Europe to see whales year-round. Over 20 different whale species have been spotted in these waters, including sperm whales, pilot whales, and even blue whales. The peak whale-watching season runs from April to October, with several local tour operators offering boat trips departing from Funchal and Calheta.
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The Hebrides, Scotland
Scotland’s Hebrides Islands offer incredible whale-watching opportunities, especially for minke whales, orcas, and even basking sharks. The peak season runs from June to September, with tours departing from locations such as the Isle of Mull and the Isle of Skye.
Where to See Whales in Europe: Conclusion
Whether you dream of spotting orcas in Norway or sperm whales in Portugal, Europe offers spectacular opportunities for whale watching. If you’re visiting Madeira, don’t miss the chance to embark on a guided tour with Bonita da Madeira for an unforgettable marine wildlife experience.
If you choose to visit Madeira island, you can rent a car with 7M Rent a Car and explore the island beside seeing whales on the ocean.
