We’ve compiled our listing of probably the most stunning cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This listing will not be another person’s opinion; these are the most effective European cities that we now have personally visited in actual life. We’ve seen and skilled all of those cities firsthand, and while 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 assist you select the most effective metropolis so as to add to your European journey itinerary.
We most definitely haven’t seen all of Europe, however we now have been to most of them. We selected these cities for his or her gorgeous structure and engaging historical past. In case you are searching for historic websites, a vibrant nightlife scene, and even gorgeous seashores, we’ve bought 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 very stunning place to go to. Town can be residence to numerous 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 stunning is its Previous City, a UNESCO World Heritage Website 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 embrace 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 listing 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 through the years to turn out to be our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. Immediately, additionally it is probably the most 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 quest of 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 neglect to take the funicular up for panoramic views.
3. Paris, France
Paris is commonly thought-about probably the most stunning cities on the planet. It’s undoubtedly on the high as a romantic metropolis, and we will’t assist however fall in love with it every time we go to time and again. 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 recurrently. Irrespective 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 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 certainly 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 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 brilliant colours.
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5. Venice, Italy
Venice is without doubt one of the greatest European cities to go to in the event you don’t go on a cruise. Touring independently and staying in a single day within the metropolis is a incredible expertise. Though it’s identified 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 shortly turned certainly one of our favourite cities to go to in Europe. We might watch cruise strains and bus excursions are available 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 residence to a few of the most well-known historic 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 absorb views of the town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. Top-of-the-line locations, although, is to take the cable automobile 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 probably the most walkable capital cities in Europe, and we like 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 might 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 approach 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 actually one of many prettiest cities in Europe. Budapest is understood for its thermal baths and spoil bars. These two vacationer locations are what make Budapest so distinctive.
8. Florence, Italy
Florence is actually a metropolis of artwork and probably the most 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 way of its cobbled streets whereas having fun with each constructing you lay eyes upon. Identified 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 limitless 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 essentially delve into the artwork and tradition of this beautiful metropolis.
9. Bergen, Norway
We predict Bergen, Norway, is without doubt one of the most stunning cities in Europe attributable to 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 listing.
The primary place it’s 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 Website with good cause. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Ensure that to take the cable automobile to the highest of Mount Fløyen for wonderful views of the 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 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 suppose that the Sq. of Brussels is without doubt one of the most stunning squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are a few of the greatest in Europe. Horta Lodge Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed within the Artwork Nouveau fashion. It’s a fully stunning metropolis full of historical past and appeal, 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, folks suppose Bruges is without doubt 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. Fortunately, we now have 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 suppose!
12. Rome, Italy
Rome made the listing of gorgeous cities to go to in Europe due to how historic ruins weave by way of trendy structure. The Everlasting Metropolis has a mixture of previous and new, leaving Roman historical past intact. They’ve included the previous Roman structure into the plans of the town. Trendy buildings spring up between historic monuments, and we like it!
Your entire previous metropolis heart of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Website. Witnessing locations just like the Colosseum, Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica is on many a traveler’s bucket listing. It’s one awe-inspiring sight after one other while you go to this European Metropolis. So add Rome to your listing of should go to cities in Europe, you gained’t be dissatisfied. 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 an exquisite metropolis in Europe, and once we first laid eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint. Sure, it’s busy and crowded, however in the event you step out of the principle path, you’ll discover quiet spots to seize a chunk or an inexpensive pint. Like every metropolis in Europe, the river presents probably the most stunning views. The Prague Fort stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the beautiful Vltava River of Japanese Europe.
When you get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you should have all of it to your self. The city sq. is without doubt 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 folks 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 personal.
14. Istanbul, Turkey
When gazing upon the 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, 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 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 the most effective views of the 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, the most effective 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 prior to now 20 years to turn out to be 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 probably the most 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 listing of gorgeous cities however Dublin is by far certainly 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 noticed 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 center of the 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 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. 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. After all, you’ll be able to experience a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we now have loads in frequent with the folks of the Netherlands.
- Learn extra about Amsterdam
18. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm was certainly 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 within the heart of the town, and Stockholm is not any exception, with its grounds on the river. This northern metropolis is linked by ferries that take guests to 14 islands. You gained’t neglect your go to to Stockholm, it’s the most effective vacationer locations in northern Europe.
19. Tallinn, Estonia
We solely managed to pop over to Estonia for a day, however I’m so completely happy 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, at the very least) on the listing.
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 historic wall, it has all the pieces you might want to see when visiting a European Metropolis. In case you are touring by way of Scandinavia, add Estonia to your listing.
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 without doubt one of the smaller cities on our listing, 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 procuring, 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 listing, Iceland was used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones. Though Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and most of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons had been used within the common collection. We had been enormous Sport of Thrones followers and visited many locations around the globe. Try this Sport of Thrones Tour of Northern Eire that recreates a few of the scenes shot in Iceland.
21. Barcelona, Spain
The extra we go to Barcelona, the extra we like it. At first, we weren’t followers of Gaudi’s works, however as we bought to know his work extra, we fell in love along with his modern, colourful, and playful structure. In truth, 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 an exquisite waterfront, quiet parks, downtown strolling streets, and bustling markets, Barcelona is certainly probably the most stunning 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 gorgeous folks stroll by. Zurich has all of it, with a well-preserved previous city, numerous historic websites, and incomparable wealth. Strolling by way of the cobbled streets will take you again in time.
One in every 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 the town.
23. Vienna, Austria
We visited Vienna, Austria throughout the vacation season, and it’s second to none in relation to Christmas Markets. Town shines with lights and festivities. For this reason Vienna is known as probably the most 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 whilst you browse the strolling streets and outside outlets. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World Warfare II and is taken into account probably the most glamorous on the planet.
24. Munich, Germany
Germany’s Bavaria stunned us. We didn’t count on to like 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 incredible 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 Website and the political heart 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 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 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 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 luxuriate in its vibrant cultural scene at certainly one of its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, alternatively, is a extra trendy neighborhood that’s identified for its extensive boulevards and stylish buildings. In addition to its historic landmarks, Lisbon can be residence to numerous 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 highway 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 elements of cities. When you’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as stunning as they’re in the present day, and the previous metropolis of Seville is not any exception.
Individuals have taken notice of Seville yet again due to Sport of Thrones, which used this location for the town of Mareen and areas in Dorne. It’s no marvel Seville is without doubt 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 at all times 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, 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. Situated on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the proper mix of previous 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 incredible Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of the town by way of its twin towers and pink sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by way of the town heart, and there’s no higher approach to absorb the views of the town than by both taking a ship tour or swimming within the river. (You heard me appropriately; one of many high 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 crucial iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Fort, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that gives breathtaking views of the town. The citadel 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 presents 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’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 listing. Need extra data on European Capital Cities? Try 14 Finest European Capital Cities To Go to
