Which country in Europe has the longest coastline?

Coastline refers to the area where the sea or ocean meets land. Countries with lengthy coastlines enjoy several advantages over others with short coastlines or landlocked nations. The presence of long coastlines with natural harbors eases trade and transport with other nations. Countries with coastlines also usually have a thriving tourist business. More livelihood opportunities like fishing are available to people living in these areas. Thus, it comes as no surprise that some of the most densely populated areas of the world are located in the coastal regions.

According to "The World Factbook", Norway has the longest coastline in Europe and the second longest coastline in the world. The coastline is 58,133 km (36,122 mi) long. The coastline of the country is highly rugged and indented. It is regarded as its most remarkable feature and attracts tourists from all corners of the globe and several cruise lines arrange cruises along the scenic Norwegian coastline. The fjords, islands, fishing villages, and ice-covered landscapes further north add to the beauty of the coastline.

Greece has a coastline of 13,676 km (8,497 mi) which is the longest coastline in the Mediterranean Sea Basin. The United Kingdom has an extensive coastline of 12,429 km (7,723 mi) that includes the coastlines of Great Britain, Ireland, and other smaller islands. The coastline of Italy, at 7,782 km (4,835 mi) long, is the fifth longest in Europe and the 14th longest in the world.