We’ve compiled our record of probably the most stunning cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This record will not be another person’s opinion; these are the perfect European cities that we’ve got 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 to learn extra in-depth guides. So get able to allow us to assist you to select the perfect metropolis so as to add to your European journey itinerary.
We most actually haven’t seen all of Europe, however we’ve got been to most of them. We selected these cities for his or her gorgeous structure and engaging historical past. In case you are in search of historic websites, a vibrant nightlife scene, and even gorgeous seashores, we’ve obtained 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 stunning place to go to. The town can also be residence to various 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 principal issues that make Dubrovnik so stunning 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 Recreation of Thrones.
2. Porto, Portugal
Situated in Northern Portugal, Porto has skyrocketed to the highest of individuals’s record 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 turn out to be our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. At this time, additionally it is some of the visited cities in Portugal. When visiting Porto, stroll by its outdated city, starting on the banks of the River Douro.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 unique angle.
Strolling alongside the bustling waterfront makes for a romantic night, sipping port wine takes you again in time, and don’t overlook to take the funicular up for panoramic views.
3. Paris, France
Paris is usually thought-about some of the stunning cities on the planet. It’s undoubtedly on the prime as a romantic metropolis, and we will’t assist however fall in love with it every time we go to many times. It could appear cliché, however it can all the time be probably the most stunning 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 marvel 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 record.
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 countless stream of canals, Copenhagen undoubtedly deserves to be named one in every of Europe’s most stunning cities. It is sort of a fairytale.
Nyhavn might be probably the most scenic cityscape of all of the Scandinavian cities we visited. This waterfront canal is positioned within the Previous City and is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Seventeenth-century townhouses line the canal crammed with historic sailboats. What makes these townhouses so distinctive is that they’re painted in brilliant colours.
- To see extra of Copenhagen, take a look at:
5. Venice, Italy
Venice is likely one of the finest 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. Although it’s identified for its canals, getting misplaced in its maze of slender 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 grew to become one in every of our favourite cities to go to in Europe. We’d watch cruise traces and bus excursions are available in for a day and zip proper again out earlier than they’d an opportunity to essentially discover Venice. Taking boat journeys by 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 a number of the most well-known historical ruins on the planet, together with the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and The Historic Agora. Nothing is extra breathtaking than sitting at a rooftop bar at Monastiraki Sq., trying on the Acropolis standing proudly over the town.
There are a lot of locations to soak up views of the town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. Among the finest locations, although, is to take the cable automotive as much as Lybitacus Hill. Be certain to remain within the metropolis middle to have the ability to stroll to all the in style vacationer points of interest. It’s some of the walkable capital cities in Europe, and we adore it. 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 can be in awe of the Budapest waterfront. Strolling over the chain bridge to witness the great thing about the Hungarian twin cities of Buda and Pest is pure perfection. When the lights come on in Budapest, make your method right 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 wreck bars. These two vacationer locations are what make Budapest so distinctive.
8. Florence, Italy
Florence is really a metropolis of artwork and some of the stunning 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 its cobbled streets whereas having fun with each 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 get pleasure from.
The Duomo stands proud within the metropolis middle, and countless streets free from visitors make strolling a pleasure. Be certain to spend greater than a day journey when visiting Florence, spend a number of to essentially delve into the artwork and tradition of this beautiful metropolis.
9. Bergen, Norway
We expect Bergen, Norway, is likely one of the most stunning cities in Europe because of its pure magnificence. Surrounded by mountains, it’s genuinely picture-perfect. The historic Bryggen Space makes for a picturesque waterfront. It is probably not the obvious Norwegian metropolis to go to in Europe (most individuals naturally consider Oslo first), however Bergen is undoubtedly one for the bucket record.
The primary place you need to go to in Bergen is Bryggen, the fairytale village of historic picket homes lining the waterfront. This historic quarter of Bergen is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site with good cause. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Be certain to take the cable automotive to the highest of Mount Fløyen for superb views of the town. If 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 after we lastly discovered the sq.. We had been strolling the 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 likely one of the most stunning squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are a number of the finest in Europe. Horta Lodge Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed within the Artwork Nouveau type. It’s a completely stunning metropolis crammed with historical past and attraction, however it’s the metropolis sq. that places it close to the highest of our favourite of probably the most stunning cities in Europe.
11. Bruges, Belgium
Usually, individuals assume Bruges is likely one of the most stunning European cities. We visited Bruges in 1996 and actually can’t keep in mind pondering it was stunning, however we thought we’d sneak it in after Brussels as a hidden gem of a European metropolis to go to on this record. Fortunately, we’ve got had individuals write articles about Bruges for us; we did see the film “In Bruges,” to achieve additional appreciation since our go to practically 30 years in the past. Verify this out and see what you assume!
12. Rome, Italy
Rome made the record of gorgeous cities to go to in Europe due to how historical ruins weave by fashionable structure. The Everlasting Metropolis has a mixture of outdated and new, leaving Roman historical past intact. They’ve included the outdated Roman structure into the plans of the town. Fashionable buildings spring up between historical monuments, and we adore it!
The complete outdated metropolis middle 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 record. It’s one awe-inspiring sight after one other once you go to this European Metropolis. So add Rome to your record of should go to cities in Europe, you received’t be upset. Lease or Purchase Roman Vacation starring Audrey Hepburn to get into your Rome journey temper.
13. Prague, Czechia
We had usually heard that Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) was a phenomenal metropolis in Europe, and after 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 several metropolis in Europe, the river provides probably the most stunning views. The Prague Fortress stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the stunning Vltava River of Japanese Europe.
When you get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you’ll have all of it to your self. The city sq. is likely one of the prettiest in Europe, and when you will have all of it to your self, it’s actually breathtaking. Dave and I had 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 stunning structure and medieval church buildings in non-public.
14. Istanbul, Turkey
When gazing upon the town of Istanbul from our rooftop terrace at night time, it’s set afire with gentle. 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, additionally it is Europe’s largest metropolis. It’s the Japanese affect that makes this metropolis so stunning.
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 right place to get misplaced in time. Take a stroll by the Grand Baazar or go as much as the highest of Galata Tower for the perfect views of the town. Visiting Istanbul is a wealthy cultural expertise the place the East meets the West. It’s an unlimited 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, the perfect points of interest of London are positioned 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 up to now 20 years to turn out to be an exquisite mixture of historic structure mixing with fashionable skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Large Ben and the Tower of London to the London Eye to The Shard and The Gherkin, London has some of the eclectic skylines in Europe, and it’s stunning. Do you agree?
16. Dublin, Eire
It took me some time so as to add Dublin to my record of gorgeous cities however Dublin is by far one in every 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 noticed that it isn’t nearly a skyline of skyscrapers that makes a metropolis stunning; it’s the tradition and folks. The River Liffey snakes by the guts of the town, and when going for a stroll, one can actually absorb its attraction.
Dublin has quiet parks for getaways, castles to discover, and a very good pub scene. The extra we journey to it, the extra stunning it turns into.
17. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dave and I visited Amsterdam earlier than our journey running a blog careers, nevertheless it left an impression. Generally 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 excellent for a stroll, making it an ideal strolling metropolis. After all, you’ll be able to journey a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we’ve got quite a bit in widespread with the individuals of the Netherlands.
- Learn extra about Amsterdam
18. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm was one in every of our favourite cities in Scandinavia. The capital metropolis of Sweden is positioned 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 middle of the town, and Stockholm is not any exception, with its grounds on the river. This northern metropolis is related by ferries that take guests to 14 islands. You received’t overlook 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 joyful that the town we visited was stunning, Tallinn. In case you are doing a Scandinavia tour, Tallinn is certainly one of many prettiest cities to go to (in northern Europe, a minimum of) on the record.
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 it’s good to see when visiting a European Metropolis. In case you are touring by Scandinavia, add Estonia to your record.
Learn extra: 6 Should-Have Experiences If you Go to Estonia
20. Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting Iceland was a dream come true, and its capital metropolis, Reykjavik, is gorgeous. Reykjavik is likely one of the smaller cities on our record, nevertheless it packs a punch. Like a lot of Europe’s stunning cities, Reykjavik has colourful buildings lining the waterfront, pedestrian avenues, and plenty of purchasing, 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 record, Iceland was used as a filming location for Recreation of Thrones. Although Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and most of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons had been used within the in style collection. We had been large Recreation of Thrones followers and visited many locations around the globe. Try this Recreation of Thrones Tour of Northern Eire that recreates a number of the scenes shot in Iceland.
21. Barcelona, Spain
The extra we go to Barcelona, the extra we adore it. At first, we weren’t followers of Gaudi’s works, however as we obtained to know his work extra, we fell in love along with his modern, colourful, and playful structure. In actual fact, 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 certainly some of the stunning and vibrant cities we’ve visited in Europe.
- Learn extra about Barcelona:
22. Zurich Switzerland
The attractive European metropolis of Zurich is a dream vacation spot. The picturesque setting on Lake Zurich and the Limmat River make for a beautiful spot to soak up the sundown and watch the gorgeous individuals stroll by. Zurich has all of it, with a well-preserved outdated city, numerous historic websites, and incomparable wealth. Strolling by the cobbled streets will take you again in time.
One among 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 degree for breathtaking views of the town.
23. Vienna, Austria
We visited Vienna, Austria through the vacation season, and it’s second to none relating to Christmas Markets. The town shines with lights and festivities. Because of this Vienna is known as some of the stunning 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 when you browse the strolling streets and outside retailers. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World Battle II and is taken into account some of the glamorous on the planet.
24. Munich, Germany
Germany’s Bavaria shocked us. We didn’t count on to adore it a lot, however it’s Europe’s hidden gem. Munich is probably the most populous metropolis in Bavaria, and it’s a vigorous city with beer halls, a college, an expansive park, and implausible structure. Munich is a metropolis crammed with cobblestone streets which might be excellent 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 middle of Switzerland. Additionally it is 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 purchasing nice in any kind of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our determination to incorporate it in our record of probably the most stunning cities we’ve ever visited.
26. Lisbon, Portugal
There are such a lot of stunning cities in Portugal that it’s difficult to decide on, however Lisbon is a star. Situated on the Atlantic coast, the town is residence to various spectacular buildings and landmarks, together with the Belem Tower overlooking the Tagus River and Jeronimos Monastery.
Go to the Alfama neighborhood to wander its slender streets and colourful homes and luxuriate in its vibrant cultural scene at one in every of its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, alternatively, is a extra fashionable neighborhood that’s identified for its huge boulevards and stylish buildings. In addition to its historic landmarks, Lisbon can also be residence to various fashionable constructions, such because the Vasco da Gama Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Europe.
27. Seville, Spain
We popped into Seville on a highway journey by 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 elements of cities. When you’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as stunning as they’re at this time, and the outdated metropolis of Seville is not any exception.
Individuals have taken be aware of Seville once more because of Recreation of Thrones, which used this location for the town of Mareen and places in Dorne. It’s no marvel Seville is likely one of the most stunning locations in Europe!
28. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki was our last cease on our Scandinavian tour, and like all of the cities we visited in Northern Europe, it was stunning, too! The Helsinki Cathedral is the middle level of the town, towering over the colourful buildings that line the waterfront.
We love how Scandinavians all the time have swimming swimming pools proper within the coronary heart of the 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, purchasing, and loads of bistros and cafes.
29. Basel Switzerland
Switzerland has one stunning metropolis after one other and we couldn’t finish our stunning cities in Europe record with out together with our favourite metropolis in Switzerland, Basel. Situated on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the right mix of outdated and new. The historical past of the Previous City blends fantastically with the up to date architectural designs all through the 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 the town by its twin towers and purple sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by the town middle, and there’s no higher method to soak up the views of the 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 encircling 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 the town.
One of the vital iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Fortress, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that provides breathtaking views of the town. The fortress 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 provides panoramic views of this charming metropolis.
Europe is such an unlimited continent. It could be small in space, however it’s monumental in inhabitants and concrete facilities. From Russia to Greece or Northern Europe’s Scandinavia international locations to Istanbul straddling two continents, there are such a lot of cities to go to in Europe it can take a lifetime to see all of them.
Get pleasure from shopping these stunning cities? Save this text to Pinterest for future journey planning.
Most European cities have completed a tremendous job preserving their buildings and historical past, which performs an enormous half in figuring out the place they’re locations on this record. Need extra data on European Capital Cities? Try 14 Greatest European Capital Cities To Go to
