We’ve compiled our checklist of essentially the most lovely cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This checklist isn’t another person’s opinion; these are one of the best European cities that we have now personally visited in actual life. We’ve seen and skilled all of those cities firsthand, and once you see them, you’ll be able to click on by way of to learn extra in-depth guides. So get able to allow us to allow you to select one of the best metropolis so as to add to your European journey itinerary.
We most actually haven’t seen all of Europe, however we have now been to most of them. We selected these cities for his or her beautiful structure and interesting historical past. In case you are searching for historic websites, a vibrant nightlife scene, and even beautiful seashores, we’ve acquired you lined.
Desk of Contents
1. Dubrovnik
Situated on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea and picturesque seashores that make it a really lovely place to go to. Town can also be residence to quite a lot of charming islands, together with the island of Lokrum, which is residence to a beautiful botanical backyard and a monastery that dates again to the twelfth century.
One of many primary issues that make Dubrovnik so lovely is its Previous City, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site that’s surrounded by a medieval wall that was constructed within the thirteenth century. Stroll alongside the wall for panoramic metropolis views. Locations of curiosity embody Dubrovnik Cathedral, the Rector’s Palace, and the Sponza Palace. Dubrovnik was additionally used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones.
2. Porto, Portugal
Situated in Northern Portugal, Porto has skyrocketed to the highest of individuals’s checklist of cities to see after they go to Europe. The Medieval structure of Porto is what stands out on this pretty metropolis on the Douro River. This coastal metropolis has golden seashores by the ocean and grand boulevards alongside the river. Porto has reworked over time to develop into our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. Right now, it’s also one of the crucial visited cities in Portugal. When visiting Porto, stroll by way of its outdated city, starting on the banks of the River Douro. Stroll its charming streets seeking a Fado efficiency, or hop on a river cruise to see its Medieval buildings from a special angle.
Strolling alongside the bustling waterfront makes for a romantic night, sipping port wine takes you again in time, and don’t neglect to take the funicular up for panoramic views.
3. Paris, France
Paris is commonly thought-about one of the crucial lovely cities on this planet. It’s undoubtedly on the prime as a romantic metropolis, and we will’t assist however fall in love with it at any time when we go to time and again. It might appear cliché, however it’ll at all times be essentially the most lovely metropolis in Europe to us. Paris can also be one of many few cities that we revisit usually. Regardless of what number of different cities we see, we nonetheless return to the Metropolis of Lights and gaze upon it with surprise and awe. We by no means tire of seeing totally different views of the Eiffel Tower, and going up for a champagne toast is one for the bucket checklist.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen holds a particular place in our hearts. This enchanting metropolis is a deal with to discover. With Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, The Little Mermaid, and an infinite stream of canals, Copenhagen undoubtedly deserves to be named considered one of Europe’s most lovely cities. It is sort of a fairytale.
Nyhavn might be essentially the most scenic cityscape of all of the Scandinavian cities we visited. This waterfront canal is situated within the Previous City and is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Seventeenth-century townhouses line the canal full of historic sailboats. What makes these townhouses so distinctive is that they’re painted in vibrant colours.
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5. Venice, Italy
Venice is among the greatest European cities to go to should you don’t go on a cruise. Touring independently and staying in a single day within the metropolis is a implausible expertise. Regardless that it’s recognized for its canals, getting misplaced in its maze of slim cobblestone streets and again alleys is a part of the enjoyable of visiting this charming metropolis.
We spent six days exploring Venice, and it rapidly turned considered one of our favourite cities to go to in Europe. We’d watch cruise strains and bus excursions are available in for a day and zip proper again out earlier than that they had an opportunity to actually discover Venice. Taking boat journeys by way of the canals created a picture-perfect expertise, and having fun with quiet drinks on a bistro terrace felt like a dream.
6. Athens
Athens is residence to among the most well-known historical ruins on this planet, together with the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and The Historic Agora. Nothing is extra breathtaking than sitting at a rooftop bar at Monastiraki Sq., wanting on the Acropolis standing proudly over town.
There are numerous locations to absorb views of town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. Probably the greatest locations, although, is to take the cable automotive as much as Lybitacus Hill. Ensure that to remain within the metropolis heart to have the ability to stroll to all the common vacationer points of interest. It’s one of the crucial walkable capital cities in Europe, and we find it irresistible. Whether or not you have an interest in historical past, artwork, or simply having fun with the sights and sounds of a vibrant metropolis, Athens has one thing to give you.
7. Budapest, Hungary
Situated on the Danube River in Central Europe, guests will probably be in awe of the Budapest waterfront. Strolling over the chain bridge to witness the fantastic thing about the Hungarian twin cities of Buda and Pest is pure perfection. When the lights come on in Budapest, make your method all the way down to the river and take within the splendor of the 2 cities.
The Hungarian Parliament buildings dominate the Hungarian Capital and shines at night time because the Széchenyi Chain Bridge displays in its waters, making for a magical scene. Budapest at night time is really one of many prettiest cities in Europe. Budapest is thought for its thermal baths and spoil bars. These two vacationer locations are what make Budapest so distinctive.
8. Florence, Italy
Florence is really a metropolis of artwork and one of the crucial lovely cities to go to in Europe. With each flip, you’ll run into sculptures or intricate etchings within the structure. It’s a metropolis the place you’ll be able to stroll slowly by way of its cobbled streets whereas having fun with every constructing you lay eyes upon. Recognized for the Sculpture of David, the Ponte Vechhio and Fabulous delicacies, Florence is a metropolis you’ll wish to take your time to take pleasure in.
The Duomo stands proud within the metropolis heart, and infinite streets free from site visitors make strolling a pleasure. Ensure that to spend greater than a day journey when visiting Florence, spend a number of to actually delve into the artwork and tradition of this attractive metropolis.
9. Bergen, Norway
We expect Bergen, Norway, is among the most lovely cities in Europe resulting from its pure magnificence. Surrounded by mountains, it’s genuinely picture-perfect. The historic Bryggen Space makes for a picturesque waterfront. It will not be the obvious Norwegian metropolis to go to in Europe (most individuals naturally consider Oslo first), however Bergen is undoubtedly one for the bucket checklist.
The primary place it is best to go to in Bergen is Bryggen, the fairytale village of historic wood homes lining the waterfront. This historic quarter of Bergen is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site with good motive. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Ensure that to take the cable automotive to the highest of Mount Fløyen for wonderful views of town. Whenever you see Bergen, you’ll agree that it might be one of many prettiest cities in Europe.
10. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels was one of many first European cities we’ve ever visited, and I’ll always remember the sensation we had once we lastly discovered the sq.. We had been strolling town streets and rounded a nook to see the well-known Previous City Sq.. And the sight took our breath away. We revisited it a few years in the past, and the sensation didn’t fade.
We nonetheless assume that the Sq. of Brussels is among the most lovely squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are among the greatest in Europe. Horta Lodge Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed within the Artwork Nouveau type. It’s a completely lovely metropolis full of historical past and appeal, however it’s the metropolis sq. that places it close to the highest of our favourite of essentially the most lovely cities in Europe.
11. Bruges, Belgium
Typically, folks assume Bruges is among the most lovely European cities. We visited Bruges in 1996 and actually can’t keep in mind considering it was lovely, however we thought we’d sneak it in after Brussels as a hidden gem of a European metropolis to go to on this checklist. Fortunately, we have now had folks write articles about Bruges for us; we did see the film “In Bruges,” to achieve additional appreciation since our go to almost 30 years in the past. Examine this out and see what you assume!
12. Rome, Italy
Rome made the checklist of lovely cities to go to in Europe due to how historical ruins weave by way of trendy structure. The Everlasting Metropolis has a mixture of outdated and new, leaving Roman historical past intact. They’ve integrated the outdated Roman structure into the plans of town. Trendy buildings spring up between historical monuments, and we find it irresistible!
Your complete outdated metropolis heart of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. Witnessing locations just like the Colosseum, Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica is on many a traveler’s bucket checklist. It’s one awe-inspiring sight after one other once you go to this European Metropolis. So add Rome to your checklist of should go to cities in Europe, you received’t be upset. Hire or Purchase Roman Vacation starring Audrey Hepburn to get into your Rome journey temper.
13. Prague, Czechia
We had typically heard that Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) was a phenomenal metropolis in Europe, and once we first laid eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint. Sure, it’s busy and crowded, however should you step out of the principle path, you’ll discover quiet spots to seize a chew or an reasonably priced pint. Like all metropolis in Europe, the river affords essentially the most lovely views. The Prague Citadel stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the stunning Vltava River of Japanese Europe.
If you happen to get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you’ll have all of it to your self. The city sq. is among the prettiest in Europe, and when you might have all of it to your self, it’s really breathtaking. Dave and I have been amazed to see that individuals didn’t actually get began till after 9:00 am, which gave us loads of time to benefit from the lovely structure and medieval church buildings in non-public.
14. Istanbul, Turkey
When gazing upon town of Istanbul from our rooftop terrace at night time, it’s set afire with mild. Istanbul is a metropolis with two personalities—one foot within the West with a European aptitude and the opposite foot within the East of Asia. Spanning two continents, it’s also Europe’s largest metropolis. It’s the Japanese affect that makes this metropolis so lovely.
Mosques dot the cityscape as spires peek out from above the skyline. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia don’t disappoint, and the Previous Metropolis is the proper place to get misplaced in time. Take a stroll by way of the Grand Baazar or go as much as the highest of Galata Tower for one of the best views of town. Visiting Istanbul is a wealthy cultural expertise the place the East meets the West. It’s an infinite metropolis, but it’s simple to stroll and navigate.
15. London, England
Our favourite a part of London was hanging out by the river, with Tower Bridge spanning the Thames. Like most cities, one of the best points of interest of London are situated on the water. We took water taxis and ferries, took within the metropolis’s magnificence from the river, and explored its world class museums. London has reworked previously 20 years to develop into a beautiful mixture of historic structure mixing with trendy skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Massive Ben and the Tower of London to the London Eye to The Shard and The Gherkin, London has one of the crucial eclectic skylines in Europe, and it’s lovely. Do you agree?
16. Dublin, Eire
It took me some time so as to add Dublin to my checklist of lovely cities however Dublin is by far considered one of our favorite European cities. After I began compiling this, I solely considered skylines and locations that took my breath away. However after visiting Dublin a number of instances, I spotted that it isn’t nearly a skyline of skyscrapers that makes a metropolis lovely; it’s the tradition and folks. The River Liffey snakes by way of the center of town, and when going for a stroll, one can actually absorb its appeal.
Dublin has quiet parks for getaways, castles to discover, and a very good pub scene. The extra we journey to it, the extra lovely it turns into.
17. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dave and I visited Amsterdam earlier than our journey running a blog careers, however it left an impression. Often known as the Venice of the North, Amsterdam is a metropolis of picturesque canals. The colourful waterways make it one of many prettiest cities in Europe, and the canals are good for a stroll, making it an ideal strolling metropolis. In fact, you’ll be able to trip a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we have now rather a lot in widespread with the folks of the Netherlands.
- Learn extra about Amsterdam
18. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm was considered one of our favourite cities in Scandinavia. The capital metropolis of Sweden is situated on the Baltic Sea, and the colourful buildings of the outdated city line the waterfront, taking your breath away.
What we love about Scandinavian cities is how there are amusement parks proper within the heart of town, and Stockholm isn’t any exception, with its grounds on the river. This northern metropolis is linked by ferries that take guests to 14 islands. You received’t neglect your go to to Stockholm, it’s among the finest vacationer locations in northern Europe.
19. Tallinn, Estonia
We solely managed to pop over to Estonia for a day, however I’m so completely satisfied that town we visited was lovely, Tallinn. In case you are doing a Scandinavia tour, Tallinn is unquestionably one of many prettiest cities to go to (in northern Europe, no less than) on the checklist.
Tallinn was shocking. We didn’t actually know what to anticipate when visiting Estonia, however it’s an thrilling nation with a really wealthy historical past. We are able to’t wait to return and see extra! With its medieval sq., excessive lookouts, and an historical wall, it has the whole lot you might want to see when visiting a European Metropolis. In case you are touring by way of Scandinavia, add Estonia to your checklist.
Learn extra: 6 Should-Have Experiences Whenever you Go to Estonia
20. Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting Iceland was a dream come true, and its capital metropolis, Reykjavik, is gorgeous. Reykjavik is among the smaller cities on our checklist, however it packs a punch. Like lots of Europe’s lovely cities, Reykjavik has colourful buildings lining the waterfront, pedestrian avenues, and many buying, eating, and nightlife. It’s a metropolis that’s “quintessentially Nordic” and, when visiting Iceland, deserves a few days to discover.
Like many European Cities on this checklist, Iceland was used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones. Regardless that Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and lots of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons have been used within the common collection. We have been big Sport of Thrones followers and visited many locations world wide. Take a look at this Sport of Thrones Tour of Northern Eire that recreates among the scenes shot in Iceland.
21. Barcelona, Spain
The extra we go to Barcelona, the extra we find it irresistible. At first, we weren’t followers of Gaudi’s works, however as we acquired to know his work extra, we fell in love along with his progressive, colourful, and playful structure. In truth, Barcelona’s structure is so distinctive and essential that it 9 of its buildings are designated UNESCO World Heritage websites. Seven of which belong to Anotnie Gaudi himself.
With a phenomenal waterfront, quiet parks, downtown strolling streets, and bustling markets, Barcelona is unquestionably one of the crucial lovely and vibrant cities we’ve visited in Europe.
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22. Zurich Switzerland
The gorgeous European metropolis of Zurich is a dream vacation spot. The picturesque setting on Lake Zurich and the Limmat River make for a stunning spot to absorb the sundown and watch the attractive folks stroll by. Zurich has all of it, with a well-preserved outdated city, numerous historic websites, and incomparable wealth. Strolling by way of the cobbled streets will take you again in time.
One in all our favourite issues to do in Zurich was to see it from above. Take the Felsenegg cable automotive as much as 803 meters above sea stage for breathtaking views of town.
23. Vienna, Austria
We visited Vienna, Austria through the vacation season, and it’s second to none relating to Christmas Markets. Town shines with lights and festivities. For this reason Vienna is known as one of the crucial lovely capital cities in Europe. From its magnificent structure and spectacular museums to its musical historical past and artwork scene, it’s simple to see why Vienna is so well-known.
Bundle up and drink some mulled wine whilst you browse the strolling streets and outside retailers. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World Battle II and is taken into account one of the crucial glamorous on this planet.
24. Munich, Germany
Germany’s Bavaria shocked us. We didn’t count on to find it irresistible a lot, however it’s Europe’s hidden gem. Munich is essentially the most populous metropolis in Bavaria, and it’s a energetic city with beer halls, a college, an expansive park, and implausible structure. Munich is a metropolis full of cobblestone streets which are good for strolling within the Previous City, and the picturesque squares make it simple to discover on foot or by bicycle.
25. Bern, Switzerland
Bern, Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site and the political heart of Switzerland. It’s also the capital metropolis of Switzerland. Bern doesn’t really feel like a political hub, although; this metropolis was made for strolling. The walkways of Bern are all lined, making buying nice in any sort of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our resolution to incorporate it in our checklist of essentially the most lovely cities we’ve ever visited.
26. Lisbon, Portugal
There are such a lot of lovely cities in Portugal that it’s difficult to decide on, however Lisbon is a star. Situated on the Atlantic coast, town is residence to quite a lot of spectacular buildings and landmarks, together with the Belem Tower overlooking the Tagus River and Jeronimos Monastery.
Go to the Alfama neighborhood to wander its slim streets and colourful homes and luxuriate in its vibrant cultural scene at considered one of its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, however, is a extra trendy neighborhood that’s recognized for its vast boulevards and stylish buildings. In addition to its historic landmarks, Lisbon can also be residence to quite a lot of trendy constructions, such because the Vasco da Gama Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Europe.
27. Seville, Spain
We popped into Seville on a street journey by way of Spain and Italy years in the past and we wished we had stayed longer! One thing we love about European cities is how they don’t change the historic components of cities. If you happen to’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as lovely as they’re at this time, and the outdated metropolis of Seville isn’t any exception.
Folks have taken word of Seville another time because of Sport of Thrones, which used this location for town of Mareen and places in Dorne. It’s no surprise Seville is among the most lovely locations in Europe!
28. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki was our remaining cease on our Scandinavian tour, and like all of the cities we visited in Northern Europe, it was lovely, too! The Helsinki Cathedral is the middle level of town, towering over the colourful buildings that line the waterfront.
We love how Scandinavians at all times have swimming swimming pools proper within the coronary heart of town. Helsinki has a outstanding swimming gap on the canal. The water is so clear! Like so many cities we love, there are strolling streets, buying, and loads of bistros and cafes.
29. Basel Switzerland
Switzerland has one lovely metropolis after one other and we couldn’t finish our lovely cities in Europe checklist with out together with our favourite metropolis in Switzerland, Basel. Situated on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the proper mix of outdated and new. The historical past of the Previous City blends superbly with the up to date architectural designs all through town. The cultural capital of Switzerland has a powerful Previous City.
Take a tour of The Altstadt (Previous Metropolis) to see the implausible Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of town by way of its twin towers and crimson sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by way of town heart, and there’s no higher method to absorb the views of town than by both taking a ship tour or swimming within the river. (You heard me accurately; one of many prime issues to do in Basel is to swim within the Rhine River.)
30. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is constructed atop a collection of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags, offering panoramic views of the encompassing space. The Previous City is a very picturesque space, with its winding medieval streets and towering castles and church buildings. The Royal Mile is the oldest part of town.
One of the vital iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Citadel, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that gives breathtaking views of town. The fort is residence to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Future. The Scott Monument, a towering Victorian Gothic monument, is a well-liked attraction and affords panoramic views of this charming metropolis.
Europe is such an enormous continent. It might be small in space, however it’s monumental in inhabitants and concrete facilities. From Russia to Greece or Northern Europe’s Scandinavia nations to Istanbul straddling two continents, there are such a lot of cities to go to in Europe it’ll take a lifetime to see all of them.
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Most European cities have finished a tremendous job preserving their buildings and historical past, which performs a giant half in figuring out the place they’re locations on this checklist. Need extra info on European Capital Cities? Take a look at 14 Finest European Capital Cities To Go to
