We’ve compiled our listing of probably the most stunning cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This listing 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 whenever you see them, you may click on by way of to learn extra in-depth guides. So get able to allow us to assist 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 gorgeous structure and interesting historical past. If you’re searching for historic websites, a vibrant nightlife scene, and even gorgeous seashores, we’ve received you lined.
Table of Contents
1. Dubrovnik2. Porto, Portugal3. Paris, France4. Copenhagen, Denmark5. Venice, Italy6. Athens7. Budapest, Hungary8. Florence, Italy9. Bergen, Norway10. Brussels, Belgium11. Bruges, Belgium12. Rome, Italy13. Prague, Czechia14. Istanbul, Turkey15. London, England16. Dublin, Ireland17. Amsterdam, Netherlands18. Stockholm, Sweden19. Tallinn, Estonia20. Reykjavik, Iceland21. Barcelona, Spain22. Zurich Switzerland23. Vienna, Austria24. Munich, Germany25. Bern, Switzerland26. Lisbon, Portugal27. Seville, Spain28. Helsinki, Finland29. Basel Switzerland30. Edinburgh, Scotland
1. Dubrovnik
Located on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea and picturesque seashores that make it a very stunning place to go to. The metropolis can be house to numerous charming islands, together with the island of Lokrum, which is house to a beautiful botanical backyard and a monastery that dates again to the twelfth century.
One of the principle issues that make Dubrovnik so stunning is its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s surrounded by a medieval wall that was constructed in the thirteenth century. Walk alongside the wall for panoramic metropolis views. Places of curiosity embrace Dubrovnik Cathedral, the Rector’s Palace, and the Sponza Palace. Dubrovnik was additionally used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
2. Porto, Portugal
Located in Northern Portugal, Porto has skyrocketed to the highest of individuals’s listing of cities to see once they go to Europe. The Medieval structure of Porto is what stands out in this beautiful metropolis on the Douro River. This coastal metropolis has golden seashores by the ocean and grand boulevards alongside the river. Porto has reworked through the years to turn into our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. Today, it is usually one of the crucial visited cities in Portugal. When visiting Porto, stroll by way of its previous city, starting on the banks of the River Douro. Stroll its charming streets in search of a Fado efficiency, or hop on a river cruise to see its Medieval buildings from a special angle.
Walking 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 of one of the crucial stunning cities in the world. It is 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 repeatedly. It could appear cliché, however it’ll at all times be probably the most stunning metropolis in Europe to us. Paris can be one of many few cities that we revisit often. No matter what number of different cities we see, we nonetheless return to the City 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 listing.
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 limitless stream of canals, Copenhagen undoubtedly deserves to be named considered one 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 in the Old Town and is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Seventeenth-century townhouses line the canal stuffed with 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 likely one of the finest European cities to go to in case you don’t go on a cruise. Traveling independently and staying in a single day in town is a implausible expertise. Even although 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 would watch cruise traces and bus excursions come in for a day and zip proper again out earlier than they’d an opportunity to essentially 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 house to a few of the most well-known historic ruins in the world, together with the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and The Ancient Agora. Nothing is extra breathtaking than sitting at a rooftop bar at Monastiraki Square, trying on the Acropolis standing proudly over town.
There are many locations to take in views of town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. One of one of the best locations, although, is to take the cable automobile as much as Lybitacus Hill. Make certain to remain in town middle to have the ability to stroll to all the fashionable vacationer sights. It’s one of the crucial walkable capital cities in Europe, and we find it irresistible. Whether 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
Located on the Danube River in Central Europe, guests will likely be in awe of the Budapest waterfront. Walking 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 means all the way down to the river and take in the splendor of the 2 cities.
The Hungarian Parliament buildings dominate the Hungarian Capital and shines at evening because the Széchenyi Chain Bridge displays in its waters, making for a magical scene. Budapest at evening is really one of many prettiest cities in Europe. Budapest is understood for its thermal baths and destroy 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 stunning cities to go to in Europe. With each flip, you’ll run into sculptures or intricate etchings in the structure. It’s a metropolis the place you may stroll slowly by way of its cobbled streets whereas having fun with each constructing you lay eyes upon. Known for the Sculpture of David, the Ponte Vechhio and Fabulous delicacies, Florence is a metropolis you’ll need to take your time to take pleasure in.
The Duomo stands proud in town middle, and limitless streets free from site visitors make strolling a pleasure. Make 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 attractive metropolis.
9. Bergen, Norway
We assume Bergen, Norway, is likely one of the most stunning cities in Europe attributable to its pure magnificence. Surrounded by mountains, it’s genuinely picture-perfect. The historic Bryggen Area 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 listing.
The first 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 Site with good purpose. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Make certain to take the cable automobile to the highest of Mount Fløyen for superb views of town. When 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 town streets and rounded a nook to see the well-known Old Town Square. 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 Square of Brussels is likely one of the most stunning squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are a few of the finest in Europe. Horta Hotel Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed in the Art Nouveau model. It’s a completely stunning metropolis stuffed with historical past and allure, 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
Often, individuals assume Bruges is likely one of the most stunning European cities. We visited Bruges in 1996 and truthfully 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 listing. Luckily, we have now had individuals write articles about Bruges for us; we did see the film “In Bruges,” to realize additional appreciation since our go to almost 30 years in the past. Check this out and see what you assume!
12. Rome, Italy
Rome made the listing of lovely cities to go to in Europe due to how historic ruins weave by way of fashionable structure. The Eternal City has a mixture of previous and new, leaving Roman historical past intact. They have integrated the previous Roman structure into the plans of town. Modern buildings spring up between historic monuments, and we find it irresistible!
The complete previous metropolis middle of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Witnessing locations just like the Colosseum, Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica is on many a traveler’s bucket listing. It is one awe-inspiring sight after one other whenever you go to this European City. So add Rome to your listing of should go to cities in Europe, you received’t be disenchanted. Rent or Buy Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn to get into your Rome journey temper.
13. Prague, Czechia
We had usually heard that Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) was a stupendous metropolis in Europe, and after we first laid eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint. Yes, it’s busy and crowded, however in case you step out of the principle path, you’ll discover quiet spots to seize a chew or an inexpensive pint. Like any metropolis in Europe, the river presents probably the most stunning views. The Prague Castle stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the stunning Vltava River of Eastern Europe.
If you get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you should have all of it to your self. The city sq. is likely one of the prettiest in Europe, and when you have got 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 town of Istanbul from our rooftop terrace at evening, it’s set afire with gentle. Istanbul is a metropolis with two personalities—one foot in the West with a European aptitude and the opposite foot in the East of Asia. Spanning two continents, it is usually Europe’s largest metropolis. It is the Eastern 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 Old City is the right 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 straightforward 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 sights of London are positioned on the water. We took water taxis and ferries, took in town’s magnificence from the river, and explored its world class museums. London has reworked in the previous 20 years to turn into an exquisite mixture of historic structure mixing with fashionable skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Big 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 stunning. Do you agree?
16. Dublin, Ireland
It took me some time so as to add Dublin to my listing of lovely cities however Dublin is by far considered one of our favorite European cities. When I began compiling this, I solely considered skylines and locations that took my breath away. But after visiting Dublin a number of instances, I spotted that it isn’t nearly a skyline of skyscrapers that makes a metropolis stunning; it’s the tradition and other people. The River Liffey snakes by way of the guts of town, and when going for a stroll, one can actually take in its allure.
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, but it surely left an impression. Known because 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. Of course, you may experience a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we have now so much in frequent with the individuals of the Netherlands.
Read extra about Amsterdam
18. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm was considered one of our favourite cities in Scandinavia. The capital metropolis of Sweden is positioned on the Baltic Sea, and the colourful buildings of the previous city line the waterfront, taking your breath away.
What we love about Scandinavian cities is how there are amusement parks proper in the middle of 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 town we visited was stunning, Tallinn. If you’re doing a Scandinavia tour, Tallinn is certainly one of many prettiest cities to go to (in northern Europe, at the least) on the listing.
Tallinn was stunning. We didn’t actually know what to anticipate when visiting Estonia, however it’s an thrilling nation with a really wealthy historical past. We can’t wait to return and see extra! With its medieval sq., excessive lookouts, and an historic wall, it has the whole lot it’s worthwhile to see when visiting a European City. If you’re touring by way of Scandinavia, add Estonia to your listing.
Read extra: 6 Must-Have Experiences When you Visit 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 listing, but it surely packs a punch. Like lots of Europe’s stunning cities, Reykjavik has colourful buildings lining the waterfront, pedestrian avenues, and many procuring, eating, and nightlife. It is a metropolis that’s “quintessentially Nordic” and, when visiting Iceland, deserves a few days to discover.
Like many European Cities on this listing, Iceland was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Even although Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and lots of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons had been used in the favored collection. We had been big Game of Thrones followers and visited many locations all over the world. Check out this Game of Thrones Tour of Northern Ireland that recreates a few of 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 received to know his work extra, we fell in love along with his revolutionary, colourful, and playful structure. In reality, Barcelona’s structure is so distinctive and vital that it 9 of its buildings are designated UNESCO World Heritage websites. Seven of which belong to Anotnie Gaudi himself.
With a stupendous waterfront, quiet parks, downtown strolling streets, and bustling markets, Barcelona is certainly one of the crucial stunning and vibrant cities we’ve visited in Europe.
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22. Zurich Switzerland
The stunning 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 take in the sundown and watch the attractive individuals stroll by. Zurich has all of it, with a well-preserved previous city, numerous historic websites, and incomparable wealth. Walking by way of the cobbled streets will take you again in time.
One of our favourite issues to do in Zurich was to see it from above. Take the Felsenegg cable automobile 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 with regards to Christmas Markets. The metropolis shines with lights and festivities. This is why Vienna is known as one of the crucial stunning capital cities in Europe. From its magnificent structure and spectacular museums to its musical historical past and artwork scene, it’s straightforward to see why Vienna is so well-known.
Bundle up and drink some mulled wine whilst you browse the strolling streets and out of doors retailers. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World War II and is taken into account one of the crucial glamorous in the world.
24. Munich, Germany
Germany’s Bavaria stunned us. We didn’t count on to find it irresistible a lot, however it’s Europe’s hidden gem. Munich is probably the most populous metropolis in Bavaria, and it’s a full of life city with beer halls, a college, an expansive park, and implausible structure. Munich is a metropolis stuffed with cobblestone streets which are excellent for strolling in the Old Town, and the picturesque squares make it straightforward to discover on foot or by bicycle.
25. Bern, Switzerland
Bern, Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the political middle of Switzerland. It can be 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 procuring nice in any sort of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our determination to incorporate it in our listing of probably the most stunning cities we’ve ever visited.
26. Lisbon, Portugal
There are so many stunning cities in Portugal that it’s difficult to decide on, however Lisbon is a star. Located on the Atlantic coast, town is house to numerous 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 revel in its vibrant cultural scene at considered one of its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, alternatively, is a extra fashionable neighborhood that’s recognized for its huge boulevards and stylish buildings. Besides its historic landmarks, Lisbon can be house to numerous fashionable buildings, 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! Something we love about European cities is how they don’t change the historic components of cities. If you’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as stunning as they’re immediately, and the previous metropolis of Seville is not any exception.
People have taken be aware of Seville another time because of Game of Thrones, which used this location for town of Mareen and areas in Dorne. It’s no marvel Seville is likely one of the most stunning 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 stunning, 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 in the guts 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, procuring, 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 listing with out together with our favourite metropolis in Switzerland, Basel. Located on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the right mix of previous and new. The historical past of the Old Town blends fantastically with the up to date architectural designs all through town. The cultural capital of Switzerland has a powerful Old Town.
Take a tour of The Altstadt (Old City) to see the implausible Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of town by way of its twin towers and purple sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by way of town middle, and there’s no higher strategy to take in the views of town than by both taking a ship tour or swimming in the river. (You heard me appropriately; one of many prime issues to do in Basel is to swim in 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 Old Town 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 probably the most iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that gives breathtaking views of town. The fortress is house to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. The Scott Monument, a towering Victorian Gothic monument, is a well-liked attraction and presents panoramic views of this charming metropolis.
Europe is such an enormous continent. It could also 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 carried out a tremendous job preserving their buildings and historical past, which performs a giant half in figuring out the place they’re locations on this listing. Want extra info on European Capital Cities? Check out 14 Best European Capital Cities To Visit