Some of the best islands in the world are part of Europe. Europe offers a variety of islands, and some are places you wouldn't necessarily expect.

For example, Iceland is often overlooked as a European island, mostly because it is large and away from the Mediterranean region. The name of the island can be deceiving, but don't let it fool you. Iceland is one of the most geologically diverse places on Earth, and temperatures are moderate throughout the year. Reykjavik is a convenient place to visit if you are looking to drive around the country. Iceland is an easy island to drive around in the summer, because it has a highway that stretches all the way around the country.

In the summer there are about 18 hours of daylight, while in the winter it is the opposite, with 18 hours of darkness. The Blue Lagoon is Iceland's most popular tourist destination. The lagoon's water temperatures average about 99 degrees Fahrenheit, and the Blue Lagoon serves as a geothermal spa. The seawater springs renew themselves about every 40 hours. The Blue Lagoon accepts several international currencies, including US dollars, and it offers plenty of food and accommodations.

On the other side of Europe in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is located just south of Turkey. The island has been divided since 1974, when it was divided into a Greek southern Cyprus and the other half of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Turkey is the only country internationally to recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which seems as though it may complicate your travel plans, but it doesn't necessarily have to.

The southern, Greek part of the island, is part of the European Union, making its economy vastly different from the North. The south has a connection to European goods, economy, and with those things, European prices. Conversely, the Turkish Republic in the north part of the island relies on trade with Turkey. Due to only being recognized by Turkey, the TRNC is greatly limited in terms of resources, trade, and its economy. The TRNC is more affordable and less crowded to visit than the south, which makes it a top place to visit.

Sicily is the largest island in Europe, and is also located in the Mediterranean Sea. Thought many tourists visit every year, there are also many who do not. Its association with organized crime has kept some travelers away. With Greek, Roman, and Arab influences in its history, Sicily is a unique part of Europe. Not to be overlooked, Sicily actually has a distinct culture that is vastly different from mainland Italy.

Taormina is a popular destination in Sicily with a lot of history. There is an ancient Greek theatre that is well preserved and it's the second largest of its type in Sicily. Mount Etna is located in Sicily, and provides for a good hike. It is Europe's largest active volcano.

These are some of the overlooked tourist destinations in Europe, but they are also some of the best islands in Europe to visit.