european cities to visit together

Top 10 European Cities For Multi-City Trips

One of the best ways to squeeze the greatest value out of your European vacation is to book a multi-city trip : a flight that lets you stop at multiple cities for little, if any, increase in cost. It’s easiest and most affordable to use hubs as stops…Heathrow, Schiphol, etc. So we’ve put together some of the best cities to visit!

What’s more iconic than Paris, the city of light? Whether you’re flying into Orly or Charles de Gaulle, Paris is worth the stop. A city often mischaracterized by American tourists as being dirty or rude, the culture, architecture, and food of the French is unparalleled. Besides the obvious attractions like the Eiffel Tower, also make sure to see the Louvre, the Notre Dame de Paris, and the Arc de Triumphe.

London: it’s big, sprawling, and busy. And the amount of flights going through Heathrow or Gatwick make it the perfect stopover. While expensive and sometimes difficult to get around in, it’s worth visiting to see the sights. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, all are worth going out of your way to see. Take a walk through Covent Garden or Soho for more entertainment and sightseeing.

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Rome has developed well past ancient Roman roots and is now a bustling, vibrant Italian city. Although not as much of an international hub, if your end destination is anywhere in Italy or the Mediterranean, chances are Rome will be a good option for a stopover. The main historic attractions, like the Coliseum, Trevi Fountain, and St Peter’s Basilica are all within easy walking distance. A day away is Florence, Naples, and San Marino.

The largest city of Spain, Madrid is one of the most southernmost and arid capitals of Europe. It’s a great option for a stopover or an entire leg, especially if you’re heading south towards Morocco or a beach destination like Ibiza or Mallorca. The city is expansive, the food is great, and other destinations like Barcelona or Lisbon are not far away!

This Austrian city is renowned for cultural history, home to some of the West’s most influential musicians, artists, philosophers, and writers. Rated as having an extremely high quality-of-life, it’s worth visiting for more than just art. Enjoy access to a wide variety of nature, culture, art, and activities.

Just north of the Bavarian Alps, Munich is the largest city in southern Germany. Besides the famous Oktoberfest, it’s home to many multi-national companies. A short walk around the city center will show you buildings like the Frauenkirche, the Hofbrauhaus, and the Nymphenburg Palace.

Keep on going north from Vienna and Munich, and you’ll find that Prague is not only beautiful, but affordable. Commonly rated one of the best cities in Europe to visit, a bottle of vodka will cost you a couple bucks, and a hostel bed can be as cheap as five or six dollars per night. But besides that, the architecture and city center are worth the trip alone. A train from Munich, up through Prague and more rural areas of the Czech Republic, is actually quite easy to take to the destination just north: Berlin!

A unique mix of historical tradition and ultramodern architecture, Berlin is one of the most lively German cities to visit. Although most of Berlin’s historic value was destroyed by bombing campaigns during the second World War, the city has rebuilt rapidly and has become a hub for counter-culture art. Remnants of the Berlin Wall remain: other attractions include the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin TV Tower, and the Reichstag building.

Besides tulips and coffeeshops, Amsterdam offers beautiful architecture, extensive canals throughout the city, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank house, and the Rijksmuseum. As one of the busiest airport hubs in the world is the perfect destination for a multi-stop trip.

Perhaps not the first European stop that comes to mind, Reykjavik is actually a great city to add to your itinerary because you can get there so affordably with a free stopover when flying Iceland Air. Although it’s a small city, you have immediate access to the amazing nature of Iceland. Drive around the Ring Road to see glaciers, geysers, volcanoes, and the iconic coastline. The nightlife of Reykjavik is also world-renowned!

As clean and pristine as the inner workings of a Swiss watch, Zurich is the perfect entryway to both Southern Germany and the Alps. On the shore of Lake Zurich, it is a global finance capital but also provides extensive sightseeing and cultural activities for the casual visitor. See the Swiss National Museum, and during the summer be sure to enjoy the lake. Regardless of which destination piques your interest, you might be surprised at how affordable it is to stop at a city for a few days (and in some cases, for even less money!) Talk with an AirTreks agent to find out which city might make a great stopover for your trip.

Build Your Trip

35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)

A complex, interesting, beautiful city is among the most remarkable kinds of places we can experience in our lifetimes, and there’s no doubt that the best cities to visit in Europe rank among the absolute best in the world.

There’s something magical about cities: the best ones have a life all their own, made up of the millions of moments lived and stories told in (and about) them each and every day.

I truly believe that there’s a city for every personality when traveling, even for those who don’t consider themselves “city people”, so to speak, in their day-to-day lives.

Once upon a time, we didn’t think we loved cities… and then we fell in love with traveling.

We’ve since moved to Europe, and picked a beautiful city (Lisbon) as our home base.

We’ve rounded up the best cities to visit in Europe, from the absolute icons to smaller gems tucked in quiet(er) corners of the continent.

No matter what kind of European city you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

Table of Contents

Once You Narrow Down Your Dream Cities in Europe…

The most iconic cities to visit in europe, other best cities to visit in europe (that are slightly less iconic), best small cities to visit in europe, more cool cities to add to your europe bucket list.

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If you’re ready to start planning your trip in more detail after reading this guide to the best cities in Europe, consider checking out our guide to planning a trip to Europe next!

We also have a detailed guide to train travel in Europe , a guide to the best European road trips , several packing lists for Europe , and a roundup of the best travel tips for Europe here on Our Escape Clause that might help kickstart your general planning.

In addition, we’ve also written about most of these European cities in more detailed guides!

We’ll link relevant blog posts throughout this list of the best cities to visit in Europe, if you’re curious about our coverage of any particular city, you can use the search bar in the top right corner of the site to see what we’ve written.

These cities almost need no introduction: woven into our collective culture, from books to movies to historical stories, the most iconic cities to visit in Europe are certainly all well worth the trip to reach them. 

As one of the most visited cities on the planet, Paris tops plenty of Europe bucket lists around the world, and even travel bucket lists more generally.

Home to the iconic Eiffel Tower, the world’s largest art museum at the Louvre (not to mention the hundreds of other incredible museums in Paris), legendary cuisine, and plenty of other highlights like Notre Dame, Montmartre , and the beloved banks of the Seine, Paris is absolutely one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

The capital of the United Kingdom and once the seat of the most powerful empire in the world, London is positively packed with an interesting history and iconic sites.

However, London also feels like an extremely modern city, allowing for visitors to put together an excellent London bucket list that includes historical attractions like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square , right alongside the bustling Theatre District (London has one of the best theater scenes in the world).

Plus, for millennials like us, London is home to the Harry Potter Studio Tour and plenty of other related sights–not to mention plenty of Harry Potter-themed gifts and souvenirs to shop for!.

It’s a close race, but on more days than not, we consider Rome to be our absolute favorite city in the world.

Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome has a captivating quality of impressing upon you its endurance, its consistency, and its strength with every street explored and monument admired.

Home to icons like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain as well as equally impressive spots that are nearly devoid of tourists, exploring Rome, and peeling back its layers one by one, can easily be a lifelong project.

Gaudi, beaches, and the Gothic Quarter : unique and fascinating Barcelona is an incredibly popular place to kick off European adventures!

With its colorful neighborhoods, coastal location, thriving city center, and utterly unique architecture, it’s not hard to see why.

Of course, the most famous landmark in Barcelona , its basilica La Sagrada Familia, remains incomplete: construction began in 1882 and is currently projected to wrap up in 2026!

With its stunning architecture primarily dating to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age and its many canals juxtaposed with its modern reputation for partying, visiting Amsterdam can often feel like visiting a city of extremes.

Whichever part of the city appeals to you, Amsterdam is certainly worth visiting .

As one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe and one of the most unique cities in the world, Amsterdam lives up to its reputation as a compelling and incredibly beautiful place to visit.

Want to ditch (some of) the infamous crowds?

Consider bundling up and visiting Amsterdam in winter !

Venice is, without a shadow of doubt, one of the most unique cities in the world–so of course it also ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

Venice’s mere existence is improbable.

Made up of 118 islands divided by 150 canals and then knitted together by 400 footbridges, Venice’s topography is like nowhere else.

Once a powerful empire that controlled the seas all the way to Crete and held the title of the wealthiest city in Europe, Venice’s 13th-century peak can still be felt in certain places today, including in its iconic Piazza San Marco , in its ornate palaces, and along its gorgeous bridges.

Before visiting, we were Venice skeptics–but less than a day into our first trip there, we were completely smitten with Venice.

Now, we can’t imagine that we’ll ever stop going back!

Byzantium, Constantinople, New Rome: Istanbul has had many names throughout its more than 2500 years of history, and today it is celebrated as one of the most unique cities in the world.

With one of the longest and most complicated histories of any of these cities in Europe, Istanbul is actually, technically, only half European.

One half of the city lies on the European continent, and the other half, located an easy ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, is located in Asia.

In addition to being able to visit two continents in a single day, the top things to do in Istanbul include touring the phenomenal Hagia Sophia, shopping in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, admiring the Blue Mosque, and enjoying the views from the top of the Galata Tower.

Emphasis on slightly less iconic: these cities are still easily among the most popular cities to visit in Europe.

Unlike some of the longstanding icons above, though, many of these European cities gained (or regained) popularity on the tourism circuit at some point within the last few decades.

In our slightly biased opinion, as it’s one of our personal favorites, Budapest easily ranks among the top ten best cities to visit in Europe.

Set on the Danube, with its iconic Parliament nestled right up against the river and majestic architecture rising on both sides of the river, Budapest is simultaneously incredibly regal and beautiful, and incredibly laid-back and affordable.

Known for its compelling history, thermal baths that dot the city, stunning architecture, and engaging nightlife, there is an overwhelming number of things to do in Budapest !

And, it packs plenty of variety in, too: in Budapest, you can have breakfast in a luxurious coffee shop in the morning, explore the city’s caves and thermal baths in the afternoon, and then relax at a ruin pub in the evening–and that’s just within the first day!

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague absolutely looks the part of the quintessential European city, all ornate buildings framed by a winding river and overlooked by the majestic Prague Castle.

Once known as an offbeat European city to visit, the Prague of today is immensely popular (with the crowds to match, especially during the height of summer), but it is still absolutely magical to visit.

Be sure to meander your way across the Charles Bridge, explore the Prague Castle, admire the Old Town Square, and drink plenty of that famous Czech beer while visiting Prague .

And yes, the legend is true: at some restaurants, the beer is indeed cheaper than water!

Less popular with foreign tourists than colorful Barcelona, but no less captivating, Spain’s capital city is simultaneously regal and relaxed.

Home to incredible sights like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and gorgeous Plaza Mayor, spending a few days in Madrid means having a chance to experience fantastic food, incredible art, and a hearty dose of Spanish culture.

Madrid’s biggest park, El Retiro, is among our favorite urban parks in all of Europe, and definitely belongs on your list of things to do in Madrid !

As the largest city (and airport hub) on the French Riviera, Nice is both busy and beautiful.

In other words, Nice is exactly what you would hope for from a coastal city that boasts one of the most iconic urban beaches in the world!

A visit to Nice practically requires spending some time on the beach and a taking stroll along the picturesque Promenade des Anglais, of course, but there are plenty of other fun things to do in Nice as well.

While you’re there, be sure to climb Castle Hill, check out the Sun Fountain, and enjoy the colorful architecture of the old town.

Nice is also perfectly placed to use as a base for incredible day trips, including to nearby Monaco, Eze, St. Paul de Vence, and Menton.

To be perfectly frank, Athens doesn’t rank among the most beautiful cities in Europe as far as we’re concerned… but it’s still one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

Greece’s capital is often used as a gateway to its (rightfully) famous islands, but the city itself absolutely deserves to be explored as well.

Athens is home to some of the most famous Greek ruins in the world, including the phenomenal Acropolis (where you’ll find the Parthenon) and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Ancient Greece is only the beginning of the story, though!

You’ll also find trendy neighborhoods like Plaka and incredible museums like the National Archaeological Museum when exploring Athens.

And, quite honestly, even if there was nothing else to do there, it would be worth visiting Athens just to eat enormous amounts of Greek food .

If there’s one word that comes to mind for describing Vienna, it’s regal.

From the world-famous opera house to the Hofburg Palace to the glitz and glamour of Vienna’s cafe culture, Vienna gives the impression of wealth, strength, and beauty at every turn.

This is hardly an accident: as the seat of the Hapsburgs for around 600 years, Vienna definitely shows signs of being ruled by a fairly modern empire.

For example, while other European city centers frequently maintain a good portion of their small streets and medieval architecture, wide swaths of Vienna’s were cleared away in favor of wide boulevards and sweeping avenues.

If you’re not sure when to visit Vienna, it’s hard to argue that there’s a better time than during the holiday season.

Not only is the cafe culture particularly lovely when it’s cold outside, but Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the best in Europe , and the perfect way to kick off a Christmas trip in Austria !

Canals, cyclists, and hygge: these are just a few of the delightful things you’ll find in Copenhagen.

Denmark’s capital city is known for its many cyclists, its beautiful canals and picturesque harbor (Nyhavn), and recently, its extreme culture of coziness.

Hygge, a word that means something approximating coziness and contentment, is a large feature of Copenhagen.

Since the word has been popularized in popular culture worldwide, even more travelers flock to Copenhagen not just to snap photos at Nyhavn or determine for themselves if the Little Mermaid Statue is, in fact, as underwhelming as they say, but to experience Danish hygge for themselves.

And, while hygge and a northern climate may not be words that bring “beach trip” to mind, Copenhagen’s picturesque location also makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with beaches !

The capital of Bavaria is definitely known best for one thing on the tourism circuit: its incredible Oktoberfest celebration that draws travelers from across the globe.

Even outside of the annual festival, though, Munich remains one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

While there, check out Marienplatz and the gorgeous Munich Residence, as well as the Nymphenburg Palace and (at least) one of the city’s fun beer gardens.

Munich is also within day-tripping distance of the famous Neuschwanstein Castle , so if you have a few days to spend in the area, consider escaping to the Bavarian countryside for a day!

Germany’s capital city may not be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it is an incredibly interesting one.

It’s well worth experiencing at least a few days in Berlin to get a feel for this unique European city.

Known today primarily for its intense Cold War history and its quirky, artistic culture, Berlin is packed with interesting sights and things to do.

While in Berlin, be sure to check out the famous Brandenburg Gate, see the Reichstag Building, and, of course, see the remains of the Berlin Wall and accompanying memorials.

For great views of the city, consider heading up the Berlin TV Tower, and to see the city’s best museums, head to Museum Island.

Scotland’s stunning capital city is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe and one that captures the adoration and imagination of most who visit it.

With hints of fairytale magic in the air (helped along, no doubt, by the city’s ties to Harry Potter lore), Edinburgh is packed with fun things to do.

During your visit, be sure to stroll down Royal Mile, admire the views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, and enjoy Edinburgh Castle.

Travelers who love the arts may want to plan their visit for August when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over the city.

Fair warning, though: prices in the city absolutely skyrocket during the festival!

If you’re hoping to see a smaller city in Europe, then these cities in Europe might be for you!

In most of these cities, you can enjoy most of the major tourist attractions in only a couple of days or less and/or more or less exclusively tour the city on foot.

As the capital city of Alsace, Strasbourg is a unique delight of a city nestled in northeastern France and is a gateway to the famed Alsace Wine Route, glorious mountains, and the charming, colorful smaller villages of Alsace.

The region of Alsace was once held by Germany, and the result is that in Strasbourg you can find hints of German influences among the French culture, all blended together to create the unique Alsatian culture you will find in the city today.

Croatia’s most famous city has risen to international stardom in recent years, in large part thanks to its role as King’s Landing on Game of Thrones, but this bite-sized coastal city is a magical place to visit even for those who have never seen a single episode of the show.

Dubrovnik’s crown jewel is its intact town walls that still encircle the old town, where you can walk fully around the city, with the terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik glistening on one side and the shimmering Adriatic Sea on the other.

While visiting Dubrovnik , be sure to also check out the view from Mount Srd, the views from the Lovrijenac Fortress, and, if you’re up for a bit of a physical challenge, a kayaking tour to Lokrum Island!

As the Cradle of the Renaissance and one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, you might expect Florence to be a large city, but no.

Travelers can easily walk the bulk of the historic center, and some of the areas beyond it, in just a couple of days–no other transportation is necessary!

Florence is an endlessly beautiful city, and so packed full of world-class artwork that the city is almost a work of art unto itself.

From the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore to the incredible masterpiece that is Michelangelo’s David to the Ponte Vecchio to all the treasures of the Uffizi Museum, looking at Florence is like looking at Renaissance-era art, architecture and engineering come to life. 

Nestled in southwestern Germany, the small university city of Heidelberg is far from the most popular city to visit in Germany, but it absolutely deserves to make the list.

Set on the beautiful Neckar River and overlooked by the impressive Heidelberg Palace, Heidelberg looks every bit the part of a fairytale-esque small European city.

And it’s not just modern visitors and the students who flock to study at Heidelberg University who understand the magic of Heidelberg: Mark Twain was inspired by the city and spoke of it very fondly after spending a summer living there.

In fact, according to some accounts, the idea for The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was conceived thanks to the Neckar River.

While that’s partially inaccurate, there’s no doubt that Twain was captivated by the beauty of Heidelberg!

When travelers plan a trip to Slovenia, it’s rare that the charming capital of Ljubljana tops the list of what they hope to see.

And that’s understandable: it’s hard to beat the majesty of Lake Bled, the beauty of Triglav National Park, or the adorable seaside beauty of Piran .

That being said, though, Ljubljana itself is also a great place to spend a couple of days in Slovenia.

Not only is it conveniently located within day-tripping distance of ever-popular Bled, it’s a fun city to experience in its own right.

Home to the lovely Ljubljana Castle, the fascinating street-art-covered neighborhood of Metelkova, the quirky Dragon Bridge, and colorful Preseren Square–not to mention plenty of charming cafes and delicious restaurants–Ljubljana is an easy European city to love.

As the hometown of Mozart and as a city surrounded by hills that are alive with The Sound of Music, charming Salzburg, Austria is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Regardless of whether you choose a sunshine-and-blooming-flower-filled summer trip or a festive Christmas market trip, Salzburg is bound to charm!

Overlooked by the striking Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg is a feast for the eyes.

It’s also home to highlights like the beautiful Mirabell Palace (known, among other things, for its status as a filming location for The Sound of Music), the incredible Salzburg Cathedral, and both Mozart’s Birthplace and later Residence, and is an incredibly fun city to visit.

Located in southern Poland, Krakow is best known on the tourism circuit for its proximity to two things that lay entirely outside the city: Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

While both of those places are worth visiting (and in the case of Auschwitz-Birkenau, arguably very important to experience if you’re in the area and feel up to a very emotional day), the charming city of Krakow itself is also home to interesting sights that make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

Be sure to explore the impressive Wawel Castle as part of your trip to Krakow, as well as St. Mary’s Basilica, Town Hall Tower, and, of course, a milk bar or two to enjoy classic Polish pierogi.

The prettiest city in Belgium (in our opinion, anyway) is bite-sized and beautiful, easy to cover in just a day or two, and absolutely gorgeous from every angle–though if you ask us, its best angle is from the water during a canal cruise.

While visiting Bruges, consider climbing to the top of the Belfry for incredible views, seeking out the beautiful Bonifacius Bridge, enjoying a canal cruise, checking out the colorful Market Square, stopping by the Basilica of Holy Blood, and relaxing at Minnewater Park.

As a small and incredibly popular European city to visit, Bruges can feel crowded at times–but by planning a winter trip , you can experience (somewhat) reduced crowd levels.

It may be a bit of a stretch to include an entire country of roughly 33,000 people on a list of the best cities to visit in Europe, but San Marino is worth making a slight exception for.

Styled as the oldest republic in Europe (founding date: 301 AD) and simultaneously the least-visited country in Europe, San Marino is an absolutely gorgeous (though yes, quite small) country that is entirely surrounded by Italy.

Featuring castle and countryside views from Mount Titano that are worthy of any fairytale and very interesting history (you can stroll right into Parliament to check it out–no tour necessary), San Marino is definitely well worth a visit! 

While you can take a San Marino day trip from Bologna , it’s a fun place to see at night (once the day-trippers leave) as well.

Nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, the beautiful city of Annecy, France, is located less than an hour south of Geneva and features beautiful views of Lake Annecy (considered the cleanest lake in Europe), delicious Alpine cuisine (including all kinds of amazing cheese), and stunning canals.

The combination of Annecy’s incredible gastronomy, colorful old town surrounded by canals, and crisp Alpine air make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

While Annecy is a popular day trip from Geneva, this small city is worth enjoying for at least a couple of days if you can spare the time.

If you can, schedule your trip to Annecy to coincide with at least one market day.

Fridays and Sundays are the biggest market days of the week, but there is a smaller market that takes place on Tuesdays as well.

Surrounded by medieval walls dating to the Saxons, and then by the Carpathian mountains beyond that, Brasov is an incredibly beautiful city to visit in the heart of Transylvania, and definitely deserves to feature on any trip to the region!

Must-see sights include the impressive Gothic-style Black Church, both the Black and White Towers, the views from Tampa Mountain, and the charming Council Square.

And, though it’s not within the city itself, we can’t mention Brasov without mentioning Bran Castle.

This infamous castle is located about a 30-minute drive away and is an absolutely incredible sight (though, fair warning: the Dracula connections are nothing by myth).

Set less than an hour away from Florence by train, Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, and is absolutely beautiful, packing in gorgeous Italian architecture and plenty of museums in its small size.

The biggest reason to visit, though, isn’t its beauty: it’s the food.

Bologna is one of the absolute best cities to visit in Europe for foodies.

As the capital of Emilia-Romagna, you can thank the region surrounding Bologna for mortadella (the original and far superior version of what non-Italians call bologna), parmigiano-reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, and tagliatelle al ragu (aka pasta bolognese)… just to name a small sliver of its delicacies.

Even with one day in Bologna , you can eat extremely well, see several of the most popular attractions, and even seek out a few hidden gems like the city’s canals.

Away from bustling capital cities and world-icon status, Europe boasts hundreds of other incredibly cool, lesser-visited cities that are still absolutely worthy of being considered one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Here are just a few of them–consider mixing a couple of these into your Europe bucket list along with the more iconic options above!

As the capital of Spain’s southern Andalucia region, beautiful Seville is known for its stunning architecture (including its magnificent cathedral), its many orange trees that bloom in the summer, its flamenco culture, its seemingly endless sunshine (and heat), its beautiful Alcazar, and its photo-worthy Plaza de Espana.

It’s also known for acting as a filming location for two of the most famous franchises around!

The Alcazar played the Water Gardens of Dorne in Game of Thrones, and the Plaza de Espana was featured as the city of Theed in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.

Seville is also an excellent launchpad for a full Andalucia road trip !

The capital of Serbia is definitely one of the least-visited of the European cities rounded up in this travel guide, but it certainly deserves more attention.

Colorful, historic, and incredibly affordable, Belgrade is a fun and invigorating city that is absolutely packed with things to do .

While you’re there, be sure to check out the gorgeous Church of Saint Sava, the Belgrade Fortress, and the Knez Mihailov shopping street.

If you have a few days to spend in Belgrade, consider also adding on a day trip to colorful, nearby Novi Sad!

With its waterfront setting, steep hills, iconic trams, and gigantic red suspension bridge, Lisbon draws a lot of comparisons to San Francisco–but luckily, a trip to Lisbon is far more affordable.

Colorful and laid-back, Lisbon’s architecture is beautiful, its culture warm and inviting, and its attractions beautiful, making it one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

While you’re there, be sure to stroll through the historic neighborhood of Alfama, ride the popular Tram 28 past beautiful views (or at least snap photos of it going by), admire the city from a couple of different miradouros (viewpoints) check out the Time Out Market, and enjoy the sunset along the Tagus River.

Be sure not to leave without eating a dozen or so pasteis de nata, either!

Hilly, crowded, chaotic Naples is certainly a bit controversial among these best cities to visit in Europe–people tend to either love or hate it–but as we adore it, we want to include it here.

Built on the coast of Campania and boasting phenomenal views of Mount Vesuvius from its shores, Naples is an absolutely dynamic city.

Its streets are generally packed, its salesmen a bit more intense than those further north in Italy, and yes, it is a bit dirtier and rougher around the edges than Florence or Venice. 

However, it’s also gorgeous–places like the San Carlo Theater, Piazza del Plebiscito, and Galleria Umberto I are all beautiful–and incredibly interesting.

Features like the Bourbon Tunnel, Naples Underground, Castel Nuovo, and Naples Archaeological Museum are all incredible places to visit, and even if you don’t find Naples’ environment or attractions quite to your taste, there’s always its world-famous pizza to grab (and hold) your attention.

With incredible day trip options like Pompeii  and the legendary Amalfi Coast , you sure can’t beat its location, either!

Estonia’s small-yet-stunning capital city has long been under the radar as far as tourism is concerned, but luckily, that is starting to change.

With a beautiful cityscape right on the water, affordable prices, and plenty of fun things to do (be sure to add checking out the views from Toompea Hill and strolling through the hipster haven of Telliskivi Creative City to your list of things to see), Tallinn is a fantastic city to explore for a few days.

Once you wrap up, you can even travel by boat to easily extend your trip to another country!

Helsinki, Finland is only about 2 hours away from Tallinn by ferry.

Portugal’s “second city” has been gaining in popularity in recent decades, but still remains somewhat under-the-radar when compared to busy Lisbon.

Set on the Duoro River, Porto is known for its gorgeous, colorful architecture, churches covered in gorgeous azulejos (Portuguese hand-painted tiles), its dramatic views, and–most of all–for its port!

Once upon a time, the famous port grown in the nearby Duoro Valley was floated down the river to Porto, and today, you can still tour traditional port houses along the banks of the river (complete with tastings, of course).

Less visited than Florence or Milan , and yet stunningly beautiful, Verona is set in southern Veneto, nestled on the banks of the Adige River.

Home of a remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheater, amazing views, and the legend of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is as captivating as it is beautiful.

Be sure to enjoy the views from the Castel San Pietro and the Torre dei Lamberti as part of your visit.

And, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider taking a whitewater rafting trip down the Adige!

As the second-largest city in Norway and nicknamed the Heart of the Fjords, Bergen doesn’t generally top European bucket lists (at least for those of us that hail from outside the continent)–but perhaps it should.

Featuring highlights like the traditional wooden houses of Bryggen, a bustling fish market, and sweeping views from Mount Fløyen, Bergen makes for a fantastic introduction to Norway.

As the gateway to Norway’s incredible fjord beauty and home to what is arguably one of the most picturesque harbors in Europe, stunningly beautiful Bergen definitely ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

31 thoughts on “35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)”

No Plovdiv or Sofia or Veliko Tarnovo. It is not a good enough list. ?

If I ever expand this list to 50, at least Sofia will make the list! Sofia holds a special place in our hearts, we’ve spent months there visiting good friends of ours.

Add all of Ireland to this list ?

Birmingham England

Birmingham is very much a cultural hotspot in the uk. It has lovely Victorian industrial buildings and has more miles of canal than Venice.

Most depressing soulless sprawled out place I’ve ever lived

What about Dublin??? Great atmosphere, great people, great history Cork, Kilkenny and Galway for smaller cities!

Bucharest is also a very beautiful city, once called “little Paris”!

In agreement with all of the listings even living on two of them! I would add Siena to the list of small cities to visit

We love Siena! It’s definitely a fantastic place to visit.

Siena is beautiful but I think Lucca is better!

Lucca is one of my favorites too! Tried to keep the level of Italy in check on this post, LOL, but I could easily do a whole list of only Italian cities, too. 🙂

Worth expanding the list. Need Wales, perhaps Conway, more Spain for example Caceres, Burgos, what of the lovely Island of Crete – Xania? And surely can’t miss Brittany and San Malo. Actually this is impossible….. Expand to 100 and leave out the iconic cos people know them? Be so good to have loads more of less well known.

Also ireland and Northern Ireland as Belfast portstewart portrush and some Irish cities

Surprised none of Switzerland’s cities are in there. I loved Lucerne and Zurich. Magical feeling walking around both cities.

I would also include Stockholm, Helsinki, Dublin, Moscow, and Oslo. Vienna, Amsterdam, Bruges and Lisbon are in my modest opinion quite overrated cities.

I disagree about Vienna and Dublin but agree about Moscow and Lisbon

Stockholm is so boring.

Budapest and Vienna Salzburg or Brussels with Brugees? This a real question. After 2 years in quarauntine we want to explore Europe. (Budapest first time )

Very hard decision! They’re all wonderful in their own way.

If we had to pick, though, we’d pick Budapest/Vienna/Salzburg. 🙂

Τhank you Ms. Kate, After a lot of videos and Reviews and even though Bruges looks fantastic will be closer to choose Budapest and Salzburg. (even though Vienna is for the Second time after 2017). But still, this about as you wrote is a really hard decision if you think Bruges Ghent and of course Amsterdam that is really close to all of them … But we will be closer to your opinion that why i wrote here to take a feedback. Thank you for this

Budapest all day long

Warsaw is a beautiful city

I totally agree Warsaw is so quick changing city I have seen almost whole Europe and over 100 capitals in the world and I am so happy that I live in Warsaw

If you like Amsterdam, then don’t forget to visit Leiden. It’has the same look and feel as Amsterdam with canals and beautiful museums.

I have traveled many European cities mostly on business and a few with my wife on pleasure. I agree with your selections and comments. Your list is also very informative for me to visit the places we have not been to. Thank you for your postings.

Great Blog! You really made a very good choice of your top 35 cities in Europe (and choosing only 35 is extremely difficult). Keep the good work up and have fun travelling, now that it is possible again.

Saint Petersburg should be included. Beautiful place.

Hi Kate Have loved reading your post. Had been thinking of visiting Milan but see it doesn’t get a mention in this list. What are your thoughts on its merits? Thanks Barbra

We’ve visited Milan several times (were just there again a couple of weeks ago, in fact), but it’s not among our favorite cities in Italy!

That’s very subjective, of course, many people love it. As the business capital of Italy we don’t find it quite as idyllic and picturesque as many Italian cities, but of course its major sites–the Duomo, the Last Supper, etc–are all wonderful and worth visiting. We don’t dislike it, just don’t love it as much as other places.

We do have a guide to spending a day there! Here it is: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-milan-itinerary/

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27 of the best places to visit in Europe 

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

From sunny Greek Islands - like Amorgos (pictured) - to northerly capitals, here are Europe's best places to visit © imagIN.gr photography / Shutterstock

There is simply no way to tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, fascinating history and dazzling artistic and culinary diversity.

Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw: Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s graceful canals, Paris’ Napoleonic splendor, and the multilayered historical and cultural canvas of London. There’s also a huge diversity of natural scenery: rugged Scottish Highlands with glens and lochs, the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence, and the Adriatic coastline speckled with thousands of islands. And those are  just the highlights.

Some of Europe's most popular spots have also felt the effects of overtourism in recent years, as increasing visitor numbers leave an impact on local populations, services and historic sites. Traveling off-season, supporting local businesses and researching the particulars of the issue in your chosen destination can help offset some of the problems.

But with a little planning and care, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime. Here are 27 of the best places to visit in Europe. 

1. London, UK

Truly one of the world’s greatest cities

London is mercurial and endlessly fascinating; you could spend a lifetime getting to know it, then realize it’s gone and changed again. Stretching back from the mighty River Thames, its lush parks and historic districts are crammed with extraordinary sights: royal palaces, towering cathedrals and remarkable museums and galleries. Add the pick of the world’s theaters, restaurants , sports venues and shops, and you’ll be very reluctant to leave.

Planning a visit to London? Time it right with our seasonal guide

2. Venice, Italy

Magical city seemingly floating on water

A sunny winter’s day, with far fewer tourists around, is the perfect time to lap up Venice 's unique and magical atmosphere. Ditch your map and wander the shadowy back lanes of Dorsoduro while imagining secret assignations and whispered conspiracies at every turn. Then visit two of Venice’s top galleries, the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , which house works by many of the giants of 20th-century art.

Visiting Venice requires a delicate balance. Here are 25 things you need to know before you go

3. Paris, France

Get up close with an architectural icon

Designed as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World Fair), Paris ’ elegant art nouveau Eiffel Tower has become the defining fixture of the skyline.   The first floor is home to glitzy glass pavilions housing interactive exhibits; outside, peer down through the glass floor to the ground below. Visit at dusk for the best day and night views of the City of Light and make a toast at the sparkling champagne bar.

4. Rome, Italy

Classical ruins mixed with contemporary style

From the crumbling Colosseum to the ancient Forum and the Via Appia Antica , few sights are more evocative than the ruins of ancient Rome . Two thousand years ago, this city was the center of the greatest empire of the ancient world, where gladiators battled and emperors lived in unimaginable luxury. Nowadays it’s a haunting spot: as you walk the cobbled paths, you can almost sense the ghosts in the air.

Ready to explore Rome? Here are the city's best experiences

5. Berlin, Germany

Catch the ever-changing zeitgeist

Nearly 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, it’s hard to believe that this most cosmopolitan of cities once marked the frontier of the Cold War. But reminders of Berlin 's divided past still remain: whether you’re passing the Brandenburg Gate , gazing at graffiti at the East Side Gallery or studying the exhibits at the DDR Museum , it’s an essential part of understanding what makes Germany’s capital. From there, it's time to soak up the city's amazing modern touches, like its iconic club culture , unique independent shops and cool neighborhoods . 

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

A spectacular walled city

Dubrovnik 's main claim to fame are its historic ramparts , considered among the finest in the world, which surround luminous marble streets and finely ornamented buildings. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the walls are still remarkably intact today, and the vistas over the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea are sublime, especially at dusk, when the fading light makes the hues dramatic and the panoramas unforgettable.

Want to see more of Croatia? Follow our week-long itinerary

7. Prague, Czechia

An architectural central European jewel

The capital of the Czechia  is one of Europe’s most alluring and dynamic places. For all its modern verve, some parts of the city have hardly changed since medieval times – cobbled cul-de-sacs twist through the Old Town, framed by teetering townhouses, baroque buildings and graceful bridges. And if castles are your thing, Prague has an absolute beauty: a 1000-year-old fortress covering around 7 hectares – the world’s largest ancient castle complex.

Make sure to try these quintessential Prague experiences

8. Vienna, Austria

Grand heart of a former empire

The monumentally graceful Hofburg whisks you back to the age of empires in Vienna as you marvel at the treasury’s imperial crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Riding School and the chandelier-lit apartments fit for Empress Elisabeth. The palace, a legacy of the 640-year Habsburg era, is rivaled in grandeur only by the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the baroque Schloss Belvedere , both set in exquisite gardens.

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands

World Heritage-listed canals and gabled buildings

To say Amsterdammers love the water is an understatement. Stroll next to the canals and check out some of the thousands of houseboats. Or better still, go for a ride. From boat level you’ll see a whole new set of architectural details, such as the ornamentation bedecking the bridges. And when you pass the appealing canalside cafe terraces, mark the location for a later return.

Planning your stay in Amsterdam? Here's our guide to the city's best neighborhoods  

10. Budapest, Hungary

Beautiful capital city straddling the Danube 

Along both sides of the romantic Danube River, with the Buda Hills to the west and the start of the Great Plain to the east, Budapest is perhaps the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe. Parks brim with attractions, the architecture is second to none, museums are filled with treasures, pleasure boats sail up and down the scenic Danube Bend, Turkish-era thermal baths belch steam and the city's nightlife throbs till dawn most nights. 

Before you go to Budapest, read up on our tips from a local writer

11. Barcelona, Spain

See the genius of a visionary architect

Barcelona is famous for its Modernista architecture, much of which was designed by Antoni Gaudí. His masterpiece is the mighty cathedral La Sagrada Família , which remains a work in progress close to a century after its creator’s death. It’s a bizarre combination of crazy and classic: Gothic touches intersect with eccentric experiments and improbable angles. Even half completed, it’s a modern-day wonder.

Get ready to visit Barcelona with these important things to know before you go  

12. Lisbon, Portugal

Soulful city armed with Gothic grit

Alfama , with its labyrinthine alleyways, hidden courtyards and curving, shadow-filled lanes, is a magical place to lose all sense of direction and delve into Lisbon 's soul. On the journey, you’ll pass breadbox-sized grocers, brilliantly tiled buildings and views of steeply pitched rooftops leading down to the glittering Tagus. Pause at cozy taverns filled with easygoing chatter, with the scent of chargrilled sardines and the mournful rhythms of fado drifting in the breeze.

Plan the right time for your visit to Lisbon with our seasonal guide

13. The Scottish Highlands

Scenic grandeur and echoes of the past

Breathtaking views abound in the Highlands . From the regal charm of Royal Deeside, via the brooding majesty of Glen Coe, to the mysterious waters of sweeping Loch Ness , these are landscapes that inspire awe. The region is scattered with fairy-tale castles and the hiking is suitably glorious. Add the nooks of warm Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and romantic hotels, and you have an unforgettable corner of Scotland . 

Exploring more of Scotland? Here are our top road trips

14. Dublin, Ireland

Pints of Guinness and literary connections

Whether you’re wandering around the leafy Georgian terraces of St Stephen’s Green or getting acquainted with the past at Kilmainham Gaol , in Dublin you’re never far from a literary or historic sight. And then there are the city’s pubs : there are few better places to down a pint than Dublin, and you can even make a pilgrimage to the original Guinness brewery . Either way, you’ll surely make a few Irish friends along the way. 

See the best of Dublin with our guide to the city's top things to do

15. Florence and Tuscany, Italy

Italy’s most romanticized region

The gently rolling hills of Tuscany , bathed in golden light and dotted with vineyards, sum up Italy’s attractions in a nutshell. Here picture-perfect hilltop towns vie with magnificent scenery and some of Italy’s best food and wine. And there’s Florence , home to what UNESCO describes as "the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world". It’s a city packed with blockbuster museums, elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes.

Experience the best of Tuscany with our tips for first-time visitors

16. Ruins of Pompeii, Italy

Ancient city destroyed and preserved by Vesuvius

Frozen in its death throes, the sprawling, time-warped ruins of Pompeii hurtle you 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets, lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters and even an ancient brothel. Then, in the eerie stillness, with your eye on ominous Mt Vesuvius, ponder the town’s final hours when the skies grew dark and heavy with volcanic ash.

17. Andalucía, Spain

Vibrant cities studded with impressive architecture

Andalucía , ancient al-Andalus, is awash with glorious architecture that dates back to the eight centuries of Moorish rule that ended in 1492. Granada , Córdoba and Seville are the high points of a journey of extraordinary riches. In Granada, the palace complex of the Alhambra , in particular, is close to perfection, and perhaps one of the most impressive works of Islamic art anywhere in the world. Put simply, this is Spain ’s most beautiful monument.

18. Reykjavík, Iceland

The world’s most northerly capital

Most Icelanders live in Reykjavík and even on the shortest visit you’ll be struck by how quirky and creative the population is. Despite being on the northern margin of Europe, the locals have crafted a town packed with captivating art, rich cuisine and an epic music scene. Learn about a history stretching back to the Vikings and use the city as a base for trips to Iceland’s amazing natural wonders.

Here's how to experience the best of Iceland

19. Copenhagen, Denmark

Coolest kid on the Nordic block

Scandinavia is all about pared-back contemporary style – something that the Danish capital has in spades. Home to a thriving design scene, Copenhagen sports Michelin-starred restaurants, hipster cafes and bars, and swoon-worthy boutiques around every corner. Add in top-class museums and galleries and a 1000-year-old harbor with handsome historic architecture and you have the perfect Scandi city. 

20. Provence, France

Gallic charm in the south of France

For many people, the pastoral landscapes of Provence are a French fantasy come true. Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, hilltop villages, legendary wines, bustling markets and a balmy climate. For decades, it’s been a hot spot for vacationers and second-homers, inspired by the vision of the rustic good life.

Want to see more of France? Here's our guide to the country's best things to do

21. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Hike, ski and admire these postcard-perfect peaks

The stirring ramparts of the Swiss Alps grace chocolate bar wrappers and evoke stereotypical Heidi scenes, but nothing prepares you for their allure up close. The most famous summit, the Matterhorn, is a mesmerizing peak that looms above the timber-chalet-filled Swiss village of Zermatt . Gaze at it from a tranquil cafe, hike in its shadow along the tangle of alpine paths above town, with cowbells clinking in the distance, or pause on a ski slope and admire its craggy, chiseled outline. 

22. IIstanbul, Türkiye

Where Europe meets Asia 

Serving stints as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires and an ancient crossroads of civilizations, Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities. The historical highlights cluster in Sultanahmet – the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , Topkapı Palace and Grand Bazaar – with the vast  Süleymaniye Mosque  crowning a hilltop in Eminönü.

Find your way around İstanbul with our neighborhood guide

23. Athens, Greece

Monument-strewn capital of Ancient Greece

Greece has ancient monuments at seemingly every turn, but it’s in Athens where the greatest and most iconic still stand. High on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city, the Acropolis epitomizes the glory of ancient Greece with its graceful Parthenon and 17,000-seat Theatre of Dionysos . Other impressive ruins littering this vibrant city include the Temple of Olympian Zeus and two agoras (marketplaces; one Greek, one Roman) mingling with first-rate museums.

24. Schloss Neuschwanstein, Germany

Fairy-tale castle in a fairy-tale setting

Rising from Alpine foothills in the heart of Bavaria , the 19th-century Schloss Neuschwanstein seems to spring from a child’s imagination of the perfect castle. Its pencil-thin turrets, vertiginous walls and glorious setting make it one of Europe’s most recognizable structures, the prototype for many a Disney castle.

25. Greek Islands, Greece

Whitewashed Mediterranean villages above a turquoise sea

Wherever you land, the Greek Islands grab your attention and don’t let go. While popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos have undoubtedly suffered under the weight of overtourism, there are plenty of others to explore  that offer more off-the-beaten path experiences. Take in the lush Ionian Islands  or the far-flung Dodecanese  — whatever you choose, you're in for an incredible experience. 

26. Ring of Kerry, Ireland

A wild and medieval Irish road trip

There’s nowhere quite like Ireland , and the Ring of Kerry , a 179km (111-mile) route through the Iveragh Peninsula, captures all the essential elements of Irish charm on one memorable circuit. Wild and craggy landscapes frame isolated beaches, evocative ruined fortresses stand sentinel over similarly wild Atlantic seas, and windswept mountains watch over villages and islands that could be nowhere else on earth but here.

27. Oslo, Norway

Scandinavia’s gateway to the fjords

Oslo is doing everything it can to claim the prize of Europe’s capital of contemporary style. The Opera House evokes an iceberg in a fjord, public art is a national pastime, and the city’s extraordinary museums span the Viking age to modern Norway. So impressive are the results, that Oslo has become so much more than a mere stopover on the road to the fjords.

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The best cities in Europe: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

In order to make the cut for our list of the best cities in  Europe , certain criteria must be met. A European city should have a world-class food scene, plenty of  smart hotels , friendly locals and intriguing history. In this year’s  Readers’ Choice Awards  survey, multiple cities in Spain ranked highly – but you also voted for cities in Denmark, Switzerland, Portugal, Iceland, Croatia and Norway. In fact, cities across Scandinavia are well-loved by  Condé Nast Traveller  readers, with two cities from the region making the top five – pipped only to the post for the top spot by a diminutive Spanish city set right on the sea.

These are the best cities in Europe, according to the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards . The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.

The best cities in Europe

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia. Score 82.82

This Adriatic city might be the most famous and most-loved in Croatia. It’s encircled with stone walls completed in the 16th century, creating a dramatic landscape. It’s also a great jumping-off point for a Croatian island-hopping adventure.

Where to stay: Dubrovnik has some of the best hotels in Croatia. We particularly like Ninion Boutique Hotel , an adults-only hideout.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland. Score 82.98

“Iceland’s capital may be busier than ever, but it still has a tangible soul and culturally punches far above its weight,” features director Toby Skinner said in our cheat’s guide to Iceland . Its high-low food scene spans from music-first bars to New Nordic spots that compete with its Scandi neighbours, and a handful of cool festivals take place here each summer, too.

Where to stay: The arrival of Ian Schrager’s Reykjavik Edition at the end of 2021 felt like a step up for the city.

8. Zurich, Switzerland. Score 82.62

Zurich – the largest city in Switzerland – is the only Swiss entry to make the top 10 this year. The city scored highly in categories such as shopping and outdoor activities – perhaps unsurprising, as it sits on a lake and is surrounded by mountains.

Where to stay: Marktgasse Hotel occupies two 15th-century buildings in the Old Town, while Baur au Lac , overlooking the lake, is the grandest of the old palace hotels.

7. Bruges, Belgium. Score 83.69

Tread the cobbles to find this charming city’s real masterpieces – canal-side restaurants, sweet bakeries, exceptional chocolate shops and pretty neighbourhoods that are perfect for exploring by bike are just some of the reasons it’s ranked highly in this year’s survey. Bruges also scored highly for friendliness, as well as for its hotels and resorts.

Where to stay: Maison Amodio is a three-room B&B themed on places the owners enjoy - Paris , Biarritz and nearby Knokke.

6. Porto, Portugal. Score 84.29

Lisbon gets more airtime than its little sister, Porto, but this smaller city is hot on the capital’s heels. It has, says contributor Abigail Malbon in our edit of the best hotels in Porto , “arguably the most beautiful train station in the world and port tastings available at every wine bar on every corner.” There are also beautiful restaurants in Porto , making it a perfect weekend break – here’s how to spend 72 hours in Porto.

Where to stay: Overlooking the Douro River on the corner of one of the city’s oldest squares, Gran Cruz House is right in the thick of it.

5. Dublin, Ireland. Score 85.18

Millions of tourists descend on the Republic of Ireland’s capital each year – and it’s still a favourite among our readers, rounding out the top five. A mass of fabulous new hotels in Dublin for every type of traveller has opened, alongside lots of exciting things to do , and the restaurants here are some of our favourites in Ireland.

Where to stay: In the heart of pretty Georgian Dublin, The Merrion Hotel comprises an impeccable restoration of four townhouses that have been stitched together.

4. Malaga, Spain. Score 86.90

This coastal city is back in the game following an arty resurgence, hot new restaurants and a spattering of stylish places to stay. A cluster of museums, including Museo de Málaga and the Picasso Museum Málaga, has opened. The food scene spotlights hangouts such as Mercado Central de Atarazanas, in a central market that was a shipyard in the 14th century, and La Terraza de San Juan, at the Hotel Málaga Premium, remains a favourite.

Where to stay: Palacio Solecio is an 18th-century palace built for a Genoese merchant, while La Zambra is one of the newest creations from the Marugal hotel group.

3. Oslo, Norway. Score 88.67

The citizens of  Oslo  are a population notably keen to showcase the best of their city to visitors, from the Oslo Cathedral – still used by the Norwegian Royal Family and the Norwegian Government for key events throughout the year – to Akershus Castle. Baroque architecture dots the city and in and amongst it, no less than 30 museums showcasing the city’s history, art and political history, as well as myriad hiking trails around the rivers and gardens that wind their way around the outskirts.

Where to stay: Glamorous newcomer Sommerro has the city’s first year-round rooftop pool and sauna, plus seven restaurants and bars.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark. Score 88.78

Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen , has long upheld its accolade of the happiest city in the world , known for its hardy community spirit, exciting foodie scene and myriad canals that link the city’s various districts. From the 18th-century Rococo district – built during the reign of Frederick V and the site of the Amalienborg Palace – to Østerbro, perched on the outskirts of the city, built around Copenhagen’s medieval fortification.

Where to stay: Villa Copenhagen has a great location right next to Tivoli Gardens and a buzzy atmosphere at its all-day brasserie and in-house bakery, headed up by former Noma chef Gonzalo Guarda.

1. San Sebastian, Spain. Score 90.54

Spilling up and around the coastline of the Bay of Biscay, the resort town of San Sebastián in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country bags the top spot as Europe’s best city to visit. It’s an area known for its relaxed atmosphere, long stretches of honey-hued beaches and various foodie outposts with world-famous chefs at their helm.

Where to stay: For a central stay, Arbaso is the city’s coolest urban hotel. Elsewhere, in the Parte Vieja’s vast universe of pintxo bars, Lasala Plaza is home to a rare rooftop ‘solarium.’ See our guide to the best San Sebastían hotels for more

The 25 Best Cities To Visit In Europe [Interactive Map]

Looking for the best cities to visit in Europe? Our map ranks the best places to visit based on activities, cost, and accessibility.

Are you dreaming of jet-setting across Europe and exploring all the amazing cities it has to offer? From scenic beaches in Barcelona to timeless architectural beauty in Rome, planning a European vacation can be quite an adventure. Whether you’re looking to dive into the culture and take advantage of world-class shopping, or find yourself sightseeing through some of the most incredible cities on earth, this list of 25 best cities in Europe will provide almost any traveler with plenty of possibilities for their journey ahead!

25 Best Cities To Visit In Europe

Paris, france.

Paris, France, affectionately known as "The City of Light," consistently ranks as one of the top cities to visit in Europe, and for good reasons. Its iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral offer both historical significance and aesthetic beauty, appealing to history buffs and art lovers alike. With its world-renowned cuisine and shopping, Paris caters to both gourmet enthusiasts and fashion-forward visitors. The city's extensive public transportation system makes local travel convenient, and its key international airports provide easy access for Americans. Paris has a temperate climate, but the best time to visit is spring (April to June) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. The cost of visiting can vary, but there are options to suit different budgets. Paris is known for its romantic allure, making it an ideal destination for couples, but with attractions like Disneyland Paris and numerous parks and museums, it's also highly suitable for families. Whether seeking romance, culture, or family-friendly fun, Paris offers a quintessentially European experience that's hard to match, which is why it tops our list of best European cities to visit.

Top 3 Attractions:

• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum
• Notre-Dame Cathedral

Estimated Cost for a Week-long Stay:

• $1,500 - $2,000

Best Time of Year to Visit:

• Spring (April to June) or Fall (September to November)

London, the vibrant capital of the United Kingdom, offers an eclectic blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it one of the top destinations in Europe. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the British Museum, each rich in history and significance. The city's extensive public transportation, including the famed Underground, makes local travel convenient, and its major airports like Heathrow provide excellent accessibility for Americans through numerous direct flights. Though London can be on the expensive side, it offers a range of accommodation and dining options to suit various budgets. The weather in London can be unpredictable, but the best time to visit is during the late spring and early autumn when it's milder. London's diverse attractions appeal to a wide range of visitors: history buffs will revel in its storied past, families can enjoy parks and interactive museums, while shoppers and theater-goers will find endless entertainment. Whether you're seeking a cultural immersion, family fun, or a cosmopolitan experience, London caters to all.

• Buckingham Palace
• Tower of London
• British Museum
• $1,600 - $2,200
• Late Spring (May to June) or Early Autumn (September to October)

Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy, often referred to as the "Eternal City," is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine, making it a popular European destination for Americans. Its breathtaking historical sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City immerse visitors in ancient civilization and Renaissance art. Rome's accessibility is facilitated by its two major international airports and well-connected train system, providing seamless travel for Americans. Local travel is manageable with public buses, trams, and a metro system. The cost of visiting can be moderate to high, but with careful planning, it's possible to find affordable accommodation and dining options. The Mediterranean climate ensures hot summers and mild winters, but the best time to visit would be in spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner. Rome's extensive offerings make it ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, families, and food aficionados. Whether exploring ancient ruins or indulging in authentic Italian cuisine, Rome offers an enriching and unforgettable experience.

• Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel)
• Trevi Fountain
• $1,500 - $2,500

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Spain, is a dazzling fusion of art, architecture, and lively ambiance, cementing its place as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Known for its unique Modernist architecture, sites like Gaudí's Sagrada Família and Park Güell stand as artistic marvels. The city's rich history is reflected in the Gothic Quarter and the Picasso Museum. Barcelona is well-served by its international airport and high-speed trains, making it accessible for Americans, and local travel is facilitated by a robust metro and bus system. The cost of visiting can be moderate, with various options for accommodation and dining. With its Mediterranean climate, Barcelona offers warm summers and mild winters, but spring and autumn provide the most pleasant temperatures for exploration. Barcelona's energetic nightlife, stunning beaches, and family-friendly attractions such as the Barcelona Aquarium make it suitable for party-goers, beach lovers, families, and culture enthusiasts alike. From strolling down La Rambla to enjoying tapas at a local bar, Barcelona's charm is irresistible.

• Sagrada Família
• $1,400 - $2,300
• Spring (April to June) or Autumn (September to October)

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands, with its intricate canal system, vibrant culture, and rich history, is one of Europe's most popular cities. Its renowned museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum offer art lovers a chance to explore Dutch art, while the Anne Frank House provides a sobering historical perspective. Accessibility for Americans is convenient with direct flights to Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, one of Europe's main travel hubs. The city's tram system, bikes, and walking paths make local travel a breeze. Though known for being somewhat expensive, Amsterdam offers a range of accommodation and dining options to fit various budgets. The weather can be chilly and rainy, but visiting in late spring to early fall ensures milder temperatures and more sunshine. Amsterdam's diverse attractions suit a wide array of travelers, from families enjoying Vondelpark to those seeking adventure in the bustling nightlife. Whether you're cruising the canals or exploring the tulip fields, Amsterdam promises a unique and rewarding experience.

• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank House
• Canal Cruise
• $1,500 - $2,400
• Late Spring (May to June) or Early Autumn (September)

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic, often referred to as the "City of a Hundred Spires," is a stunning destination that marries medieval charm with modern vitality. Its iconic attractions like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock offer a journey back in time. In terms of cost, Prague is known for being more budget-friendly than many other Western European cities, without sacrificing quality in dining or accommodation, so if you are looking for a budget-friendly destination, it is one of the best cities to visit. Its international airport and rail connections make travel to Prague relatively straightforward for Americans, and the city's public transportation system is both affordable and efficient. Weather-wise, Prague experiences cold winters and warm summers, but visiting in late spring (May) or early fall (September) provides the most comfortable climate for sightseeing. The city appeals to various types of travelers, from families enjoying leisurely strolls through Old Town to adventure seekers exploring Prague's vibrant nightlife. Whether indulging in traditional Czech cuisine or taking a scenic river cruise, Prague offers a rich, fulfilling experience.

• Prague Castle
• Charles Bridge
• Old Town Square with the Astronomical Clock
• $1,200 - $1,800
• Late Spring (May) or Early Autumn (September)

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria, is a captivating blend of imperial tradition and contemporary vibrancy, making it one of the most attractive cities in Europe to visit. Known for its classical music heritage, visitors can indulge in concerts at the renowned Vienna State Opera or explore the homes of composers like Mozart and Beethoven. The magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and the Belvedere Museum showcase the city's rich history and art. Vienna's international airport facilitates easy access for Americans, and the city's excellent public transport system ensures convenient local travel. Cost-wise, Vienna offers a range of options from luxury to budget-friendly accommodations and dining. The city experiences cold winters and warm summers, with late spring (May) and early fall (September) being the ideal times to visit for pleasant weather. Vienna's charm extends to families exploring interactive museums, couples enjoying romantic carriage rides, and art enthusiasts immersed in its cultural offerings. From savoring the famous Sachertorte to strolling through elegant gardens, Vienna offers a refined and delightful experience.

• Schönbrunn Palace
• Vienna State Opera
• Belvedere Museum
• $1,400 - $2,100

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany, stands as a vibrant hub of history, culture, and innovation, offering an intriguing blend of the old and the new. Historical sites like the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie narrate a compelling past, while contemporary art galleries and cutting-edge architecture project a forward-thinking spirit. Accessibility for Americans is convenient, with direct flights to Berlin's airports and an efficient public transport system that includes buses, trams, and U-Bahn. Cost-wise, Berlin is relatively affordable, offering a range of options for accommodation and dining that cater to different budgets. The weather in Berlin includes cold winters and warm summers, with May to September being the best months to visit for pleasant temperatures. Whether it's families exploring interactive museums like the Deutsches Technikmuseum, history buffs tracing the Cold War era, or party-goers diving into Berlin's renowned nightlife, the city has something to cater to every taste. From culinary delights to sprawling parks, Berlin's unique allure makes it a must-visit destination in Europe.

• Brandenburg Gate
• Berlin Wall Memorial
• Museum Island
• $1,300 - $2,000
• Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September)

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland, a city steeped in history and brimming with lively culture, is one of Europe's most welcoming destinations. Famous for its literary tradition, attractions like the Book of Kells at Trinity College and the Dublin Writers Museum pay homage to its literary giants. The historical sites, such as Dublin Castle and Kilmainham Gaol, offer insights into Ireland's complex past. Accessibility for Americans is straightforward, with direct flights to Dublin's international airport and an extensive local transport network. While the cost of visiting can be on the higher side, various accommodation and dining options are available. Dublin's weather is known for being unpredictable, but visiting from May to September offers milder temperatures and a chance to enjoy outdoor festivals. The city appeals to a wide range of visitors, including families exploring interactive museums, history enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy the convivial atmosphere of its famous pubs. Whether partaking in a traditional Irish music session or wandering through its historic streets, Dublin provides an enriching and joyful experience.

• Trinity College Library (Book of Kells)
• Dublin Castle
• Temple Bar (for its cultural quarter and nightlife)
• $1,500 - $2,300

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland, is a city of contrasts, offering a captivating mix of ancient history and modern vibrancy. Its dramatic setting, with the iconic Edinburgh Castle overlooking the city, provides a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. The Royal Mile, stretching from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is a walk through history itself. The city's festivals, especially the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, draw visitors from all over the globe. Accessibility for Americans is facilitated through Edinburgh's international airport, and the city's public transport is comprehensive and user-friendly. While the cost of a stay can vary, there are options to suit different budgets. Weather-wise, Edinburgh can be chilly, and the best time to visit is during the summer months of June to August, although the city has charms in every season. Ideal for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and families who want to explore historic sites and interactive museums, Edinburgh offers a unique and enriching experience that resonates with a wide audience.

• Edinburgh Castle
• The Royal Mile
• Arthur's Seat (for panoramic views of the city)
• Summer (June to August) or during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August)

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal, with its stunning coastal setting and rich cultural heritage, is a city that appeals to a diverse range of travelers. The blend of traditional Fado music, historic neighborhoods like Alfama, and innovative culinary scene creates a unique atmosphere. Lisbon's accessibility for Americans is good, with direct flights from various U.S. cities and convenient local transportation options, including the charming trams. In terms of cost, Lisbon is often considered more affordable than many other Western European cities, offering excellent value for money. Weather-wise, Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers and gentle winters; spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for sightseeing. The city appeals to history lovers, food enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a romantic coastal getaway. Whether exploring the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery, tasting delectable pastéis de nata, or enjoying views from São Jorge Castle, Lisbon's laid-back charm and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination.

• Jerónimos Monastery
• São Jorge Castle
• Belém Tower
• Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October)

Madrid, Spain

Madrid, the capital of Spain, stands as a vibrant hub of culture, history, and art. Renowned for its world-class museums such as the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid offers an unparalleled artistic experience. The city is steeped in history, with sites like the Royal Palace providing a glimpse into Spain's rich past. Accessibility for Americans is excellent, as Madrid's international airport serves as a major hub for flights between the U.S. and Europe. The ease of access and rich history make it one of the most visited cities in Europe. Local travel is facilitated by an efficient metro system. Cost-wise, Madrid provides a range of accommodation and dining options to suit various budgets. The weather is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, with spring and fall offering the most pleasant temperatures. Whether you're a family exploring Retiro Park, a history aficionado, a food lover diving into the tapas culture, or an art enthusiast, Madrid has something to offer. Its lively street life and blend of traditional and modern culture make it one of the best places to visit in Spain.

• The Prado Museum
• The Royal Palace
• Retiro Park
• $1,400 - $2,200
• Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Munich, Germany

Munich, Germany, situated in the heart of Bavaria, is a captivating city that artfully balances traditional heritage with modern sophistication. Known globally for Oktoberfest, its beer halls, and vibrant festivals, Munich also boasts a rich cultural scene, filled with top-tier museums, theaters, and historical sites such as the Residenz and Nymphenburg Palace. Munich’s international airport is one of Europe's major hubs, making travel from the U.S. seamless. Additionally, the local public transportation is exceptionally efficient. While the cost can be on the higher side, there are options to fit various budgets. The weather is pleasant during spring and autumn, offering an opportunity to explore gardens like the Englischer Garten and enjoy outdoor dining. Families, cultural enthusiasts, and adventure seekers, all find Munich appealing, with nearby Alpine excursions and family-friendly museums. Whether you're engaging in the lively beer culture or exploring historic neighborhoods, Munich offers a rich and rewarding travel experience.

• Marienplatz (central square with historic buildings and Glockenspiel)
• Nymphenburg Palace
• The BMW Museum
• $1,500 - $2,500, depending on accommodation and dining choices
• Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October), but late September and early October if you want to experience Oktoberfest.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, Hungary, often referred to as the "Paris of the East," is a city that seamlessly blends history and modernity. Renowned for its stunning architecture, including Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque styles, Budapest's beauty is visible in every corner of the city. From the majestic Buda Castle to the intricate Hungarian Parliament Building, the historical richness of the city is palpable. Budapest is also home to numerous thermal baths, offering relaxation and an experience that is uniquely Hungarian. Accessibility from the U.S. is quite good, with many international flights and a well-connected public transportation system within the city. Compared to many Western European cities, Budapest is more budget-friendly, making it an appealing destination for various types of travelers. With mild spring and fall weather, the city is ideal for walking tours and outdoor exploration. Whether you're a history buff, spa enthusiast, or a family looking for unique cultural experiences, Budapest offers something special for everyone.

• Buda Castle
• Hungarian Parliament Building
• Széchenyi Thermal Bath
• $1,000 - $2,000, depending on the choice of accommodation and activities
• Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October) for the most pleasant weather and opportunity to enjoy both indoor and outdoor attractions.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, Turkey, a city where East meets West, is a melting pot of cultures that makes it a fascinating destination for travelers. Its unique geographical position straddling two continents, Europe and Asia, offers visitors an incredibly rich history that dates back to ancient times. The city's blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern Turkish influences can be seen in its architecture, cuisine, and daily life. Popular attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar are must-visit sites. The cost of travel in Istanbul is relatively moderate, offering a range of accommodations and dining options that can suit various budgets. The city is well-connected to major airports in the U.S., and local travel is made easy with trams, ferries, and taxis. The best time to visit is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Istanbul offers a rich experience for history enthusiasts, food lovers, shoppers, and adventure seekers, making it suitable for families and individuals alike.

• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• $1,200 - $2,500, depending on accommodation, activities, and dining preferences
• Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November) for comfortable temperatures, fewer tourists, and the ability to explore both the cultural and natural beauty of the city.

Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece is a city that captivates the hearts of history enthusiasts and culture lovers. As the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization, Athens offers a plethora of historical sites including the iconic Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the ancient Agora. Its rich archaeological heritage and vibrant contemporary arts scene blend seamlessly, reflecting the city's deep-rooted history and modern spirit. Cost-wise, Athens offers options ranging from budget-friendly accommodations and eateries to luxurious hotels and fine dining. Its international airport is well-connected with major U.S. cities, and the local metro system makes navigating the city convenient. The weather is favorable for travel most of the year, but spring and fall are particularly appealing for their mild temperatures and reduced crowds. Whether you're a family seeking to educate and entertain or an adventure seeker looking to explore the city's hidden gems, Athens has something for everyone.

• The Acropolis
• The Ancient Agora
• The National Archaeological Museum
• $1,400 - $3,000, depending on accommodation, dining, and activities
• Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November), as these seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and the opportunity to engage with both the historical and vibrant modern life of Athens.

Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy, is often considered the cradle of the Renaissance, and it's a must-visit city for art lovers, historians, and cultural enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its abundance of world-class art museums, stunning architecture, and historical landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, the city offers a rich cultural experience. Cost can vary widely, with options for both budget travelers and those seeking luxury. Florence enjoys a temperate climate, though summers can be hot, and the weather is generally best in the spring and fall. Its international airport and railway connections make it easily accessible from the U.S., and the city's compact nature ensures that local travel is convenient, often on foot. Whether it's a family looking to immerse in history, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or an individual in search of artistic inspiration, Florence caters to a wide range of travelers.

• Uffizi Gallery
• Florence Cathedral (Il Duomo di Firenze)
• Ponte Vecchio
• $1,500 - $3,500, depending on accommodation, dining preferences, and museum entrance fees
• Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October), for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to explore the city's myriad cultural attractions in comfort.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark, is a vibrant and sophisticated city that effortlessly combines historical charm with modern innovation. Famous attractions such as the colorful Nyhavn harbor, the Little Mermaid statue, and Tivoli Gardens amusement park captivate visitors. Its rich history is preserved in the royal palaces, museums, and architecture that characterize the city. Copenhagen can be on the pricier side, but offers a wide range of options for accommodation and dining. The weather is typically mild, with the best time to visit during the late spring to early fall when the days are long and temperatures are comfortable. The city's international airport is a major hub, making flights from the U.S. relatively easy, and local travel is convenient thanks to efficient public transportation. Copenhagen is perfect for families, with many child-friendly attractions, as well as for couples, food enthusiasts, and design lovers seeking a chic urban experience.

• Tivoli Gardens
• The Little Mermaid
• $2,500 - $4,000, depending on accommodation, dining preferences, and activities
• Late spring to early fall (May to September), when the weather is mild, and the city's parks, waterfront, and outdoor cafes can be fully enjoyed.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, Sweden, is often referred to as the "Venice of the North" due to its beautiful interplay of land and water across 14 islands. This capital city offers a harmonious blend of history, culture, and modernity. The Gamla Stan, Stockholm's historic Old Town, boasts charming narrow streets and well-preserved architecture. Stockholm is known for its stylish design, museums, and galleries, including the renowned Vasa Museum and ABBA Museum. The city can be somewhat expensive, but there are options for various budgets. Weather-wise, the summer months offer long days and mild temperatures, while the winters are cold and dark but uniquely beautiful. International travel from the U.S. is straightforward, with direct flights available, and local travel is made easy with efficient public transportation. Stockholm is a destination that appeals to families, culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those interested in Scandinavian design and lifestyle.

• Vasa Museum
• Gamla Stan (Old Town)
• Skansen Open-Air Museum
• $2,000 - $3,500, including accommodation, meals, and attractions
• Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for warm weather and outdoor activities; December for traditional Christmas markets and winter ambiance.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, Belgium's vibrant capital, is a city that combines historic grandeur with a modern and cosmopolitan flair. The city is famed for its beautiful squares, notably the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the Gothic-style Town Hall. The city's comic strip murals, the Magritte Museum, and the Atomium offer something unique for every traveler. Brussels is home to the European Union headquarters, making it a hub for politics, business, and international relations. Cuisine is another strong point, with Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer being renowned worldwide. The cost of visiting is moderate, with options suitable for various budgets. Traveling to and around Brussels is convenient, with direct flights from the U.S. and an extensive public transportation system. The weather is temperate, with mild summers and cool, damp winters. Brussels can be enjoyed by history enthusiasts, food lovers, families, and those interested in European politics.

• Grand Place
• Magritte Museum
• $1,800 - $3,000, including accommodation, meals, and attractions
• Late spring to early autumn (April to September) for outdoor sightseeing; December for Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, Switzerland, with its captivating blend of traditional charm and urban chic, is one of the top cities in Europe for travelers. Set against the backdrop of the Alps, it's a city that's renowned for its financial institutions but also boasts a rich cultural scene. Museums like the Kunsthaus Zurich host impressive art collections, and the historic Old Town (Altstadt) invites exploration of its narrow, winding streets and medieval buildings. Zurich is known for being expensive, but the quality of service, especially in dining and accommodation, is top-notch. The city's efficient public transportation system makes local travel a breeze, and Zurich Airport is a major hub with frequent flights from the U.S. Weather-wise, Zurich has cold, snowy winters that are perfect for nearby skiing, and mild summers ideal for outdoor activities. The destination is perfect for families, art lovers, adventure seekers (due to proximity to the Alps), and those interested in finance and global economics.

• Kunsthaus Zurich
• Old Town (Altstadt)
• Lake Zurich
• $2,500 - $4,000, including accommodation, meals, and attractions (Switzerland is known for its higher cost of living)
• Summer (June to August) for outdoor activities and lake enjoyment; winter (December to February) for winter sports enthusiasts and magical Christmas markets.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow, Poland, is a hidden gem in Europe, attracting travelers with its blend of rich history, striking architecture, and vibrant local culture. As Poland's former royal capital, Krakow is home to a stunning medieval core, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its cloth hall and St. Mary's Basilica. The city's proximity to Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mine adds to the historical appeal. Krakow offers a relatively low-cost travel experience compared to many other European cities, and the food, particularly local Polish cuisine, is both delicious and affordable. Krakow's airport has connections to major hubs, facilitating international travel, while the city's public transportation system is easy to navigate. The weather varies, with cold winters and warm summers, but spring and autumn offer mild and pleasant conditions. The city is an excellent destination for families, history buffs, and food lovers.

• Wawel Castle
• Old Town (including St. Mary's Basilica)
• Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum or Wieliczka Salt Mine
• $1,000 - $2,000, including accommodation, meals, and attractions
• Spring (April to June) or Autumn (September to October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a captivating destination for travelers looking to experience the unique blend of modern urban life and rugged natural beauty. As the northernmost capital of a sovereign state, it's an entry point to the country's stunning landscapes, including geysers, glaciers, and volcanic terrains. The city itself offers a thriving art scene, innovative culinary experiences, and fascinating historical sites such as the National Museum of Iceland. The cost of visiting can be on the higher side, but the experiences are unparalleled. Reykjavik's airport offers direct flights from many American cities, making it accessible for U.S. tourists. Local travel is convenient, with extensive public transportation and many tour operators providing guided excursions. The weather can be chilly, even in summer, so pack appropriately. The best time to visit depends on preferences: summer for midnight sun and milder weather, or winter for the Northern Lights. Adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural explorers will find Reykjavik a thrilling destination.

• The Blue Lagoon
• Hallgrímskirkja (iconic church with panoramic views)
• Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre (architectural wonder)
• $2,500 - $3,500, including accommodation, meals, and attractions
• Summer (June to August) for longer days and milder weather or Winter (November to February) for the Northern Lights and unique winter experiences.

Oslo, Norway

Oslo, Norway's capital, is an ideal European destination that blends modern architecture with rich cultural history and stunning natural surroundings. Known for its thriving arts scene, world-class museums, and beautiful parks, Oslo offers plenty to explore. Historical sites such as the Akershus Fortress and the Viking Ship Museum provide a glimpse into Norway's past, while the ultra-modern Opera House represents its progressive present. The city's cost of living is relatively high, but visitors find the experiences rewarding. Oslo's international airport is well-connected with major American cities, making travel convenient. Public transportation is efficient, and many attractions are within walking distance. The weather varies with chilly winters and mild summers, both offering unique experiences. Families will love the educational museums and parks, while adventure seekers can explore nearby fjords and forests. The best time to visit is summer for outdoor activities or winter for skiing and other snow sports.

• The Viking Ship Museum
• Vigeland Sculpture Park
• Oslo Opera House
• $3,000 - $4,000, including accommodation, meals, and sightseeing
• Summer (June to August) for outdoor exploration and mild weather, or Winter (December to February) for skiing and other winter activities.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a vibrant seaside city with a unique blend of historical charm and modern flair. The city's stunning architecture ranges from neoclassical buildings to cutting-edge contemporary designs. Popular attractions include Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Helsinki Cathedral, and the avant-garde Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. Helsinki offers relatively reasonable costs compared to other Nordic capitals, and its popularity is growing among travelers seeking a blend of urban and natural experiences. With direct flights from major American cities and an efficient public transportation system, traveling to and around Helsinki is stress-free. Weather can vary, with cold winters and mild, pleasant summers. The city appeals to families with its array of parks and educational attractions, while adventure seekers can explore nearby forests and archipelagos. The summer months are the best time to visit, offering long days and lively festivals.

• Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
• Helsinki Cathedral
• Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art
• $2,200 - $3,000, including accommodation, meals, and sightseeing
• Summer (June to August) for outdoor activities, festivals, and enjoying the archipelago. Winter (December to February) offers a magical snowy experience, with opportunities for ice skating and other winter sports.

Ready To Visit Europe?

When contemplating Europe's breathtaking cities, one cannot deny that the continent is an ideal destination for those seeking a diverse and exhilarating getaway. From the alluring beauty of Rome to the vibrant, multicultural ambiance of London, Europe offers something for everyone. Its captivating culture and delectable cuisine consistently beckon travelers to return time and time again. Consider your wanderlust awakened; Europe promises incredible sightseeing adventures that await you! However, with numerous extraordinary cities located in close proximity, selecting the first to visit can pose a challenge. That's why utilizing Proxi is essential for devising the perfect itinerary - ensuring you know exactly where to go and what to do. Delight in the charming Parisian cafes or immerse yourself in Berlin's edgy arts scene - with Proxi's extensive database, unseen possibilities shine, allowing your creativity to flow freely during your travels. So why not commence your planning now? Ready to embark on your next vacation? Utilize Proxi to craft your personalized travel map today!

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Ranked: 100 best cities to visit in Europe 2024

From the “capital of capitals” to the “Venice of the North”, these are the 100 best cities to visit in Europe in 2024

In 2015, a study from the European Commission found that 72% of the EU’s population lived in cities with the majority of Europeans concentrated in cities with populations between 250,000 and 5 million.

In 2018, another study suggested that by the time this century is complete, the world’s population will be 80% urbanised with Europe at the forefront of this change with around 90% of its population urbanised. Belgium already has an urbanised population of 98% with Malta (95%) and the Netherlands (93%) not far behind.

Wherever the world’s expats , digital nomads and remote workers choose to relocate, chances are it will be in a city. With this in mind, Canadian consultancy film Resonance , which has offices in Vancouver, Montreal, Singapore and New York, has published a new report ranking the 100 best cities in Europe with populations of more than 500,000.

How does the ranking work?

How to stay connected in europe’s cities.

• What is Europe’s best city?

Other winning cities

100 best cities to visit in europe – complete ranking.

Contrary to similar ‘best-of’ lists, the index assesses a city’s culture, diversity, prosperity, infrastructure and employment opportunities.

They use 25 factors grouped into six categories covering a range of criteria including climate, access to outdoor space, education and work prospects, population diversity, leisure options and even social media popularity.

The six categories and 25 factors are:

• Place: weather, safety, sights & landmarks, outdoors
• Product: airport connectivity, attractions, museums, university ranking, convention centre
• People: labour force participation, educational attainment
• Prosperity: global 500 number, GDP per capita, income equality, employment rate
• Programming: culture, nightlife, dining, shopping
• Promotion: Facebook check-ins, Google search, TripAdvisor reviews, Instagram hashtags, Google Trends

Roaming charges can be high in Europe so the best way to stay connected when travelling is to use an eSIM : a virtual SIM card. It is much cheaper than using the data roaming options provided by the major networks, pay-as-you-go physical SIM cards or wifi hotspot devices. An eSIM is also far more convenient.

An eSIM works remotely, meaning you don’t have to remove your current SIM card so there’s no risk of misplacing or damaging it or losing your number. eSIMs are pre-installed on the majority of devices now and can be activated just by installing an ‘eSIM profile’ of a new provider.

The best eSIM for travel in Europe is Holafly . We’ve used several providers over the years as well as pay-as-you-go SIM cards and wifi hotspots. Having used Holafly eSIMs in Europe as well as further afield in Mexico and Panama , we have now settled on them as our eSIM partner. They also come highly rated on Trustpilot .

Holafly covers 170 destinations worldwide (with unlimited data available in 122 countries) and offers several eSIM  data packages for Europe  covering over 30 countries including popular destinations such as France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland and Turkey across a range of networks including 3G, 4G and 5G.

We can offer our readers 5% off on Holafly purchases with this coupon: ATLASANDBOOTS

All packages come with unlimited data in Europe plus 60 minutes for making and receiving calls.

• Unlimited data, 5 days: €19
• Unlimited data, 7 days: €27
• Unlimited data, 10 days: €34
• Unlimited data, 15 days: €47
• Unlimited data, 20 days: €57
• Unlimited data, 30 days: €69
• Unlimited data, 60 days: €87
• Unlimited data, 90 days: €99

What is the best city to visit in Europe?

The study named London the best city in Europe. The ‘capital of capitals’ has taken the top spot despite concerns surrounding the city’s post-Brexit future . However, the report’s authors believe the city continues to draw talent and visitors en masse and will eventually weather the storm and even emerge stronger.

The UK capital scored highly in the programming , promotion , product and prosperity categories but was some way behind in the place category. Transport links remain excellent, especially with the opening of the new Elizabeth Line connecting London’s main airport, Heathrow, to the suburbs on the other side of the metropolis.

“As the ‘capital of capitals’ (both in Europe and globally) deftly negotiates the uncharted, perilous terrain of a post-Brexit and pandemic world, London reigns as Europe’s best city.” – World’s Best Cities, Resonance

Tourists continue to visit London in their masses with the city ranked third in the world and first in Europe in terms of cities with the biggest international traveller spend. In 2022, $16.07 billion was spent by travellers in London, only slightly less than second-placed Doha ($16.79 billion) while Dubai was the runaway winner with $29.42 billion.

Despite a looming recession and falling house prices across the rest of the country, London’s luxury homes are defying the country’s economic slowdown and wider slump in house prices.

Finally, pedestrians are excited by the 2025 opening of the Camden Highline , a 1.2km greenway just north of Central London. Described as a ‘Manhattan makeover for London,’ it is hoped that the transformation of a disused train track will revitalise the UK capital like it did in New York.

The usual suspects of Paris, Berlin, Rome and Madrid closely follow London. Paris remains a strong contender thanks to its ambitious sustainability policies which have included expanding cycle routes, reducing city speed limits and tree planting as it aims to become Europe’s greenest city by 2030 .

“Cities are the engines of the global economy and the badges of human ingenuity. Yes, they’ve been hobbled over the past 18 months, exposing the long-ignored foundational and institutional problems that manifested on their streets and in their hospitals and seniors homes. But they’re also leading — like they always have — the recovery and future-defining next stage of human innovation.” – World’s Best Cities, Resonance

Berlin has moved into third place in the ranking and won heavy praise for “welcoming waves of Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion” as well as its cultural assets which include vibrant nightlife, cutting-edge architecture and fascinating museums. In 2024, the city will host several matches of the Euro 24 football tournament including the final at the Olympiastadion.

Rome is one of the world’s most romantic cities brimming with millennia of history but it was also commended for its underrated parks and greenways and its hospitality sector.

Madrid moved above its archrival Barcelona for the first time thanks to its sustainability-driven investment while Prague in sixth, won praise for unrolling a series of resident-first policies in an attempt to battle the overtourism the city has seen of late.

Barcelona, the capital of Spain’s autonomous community of Catalonia , is Europe’s seventh-best city. The city performed well in the nightlife category but also won praise for its commitment to traffic calming and creating community space. Ada Colau, the mayor of Barcelona, has introduced several schemes as part of her superblock initiative as well as added over 100 miles of bike lanes.

In eighth place is Amsterdam, a European stalwart regularly rated among the world’s greenest cities . The city is often referred to as the “Venice of the North” due to its large number of UNESCO-listed canals . Amsterdam has won praise for its commitment to reforming the red-light district. Green mayor Femke Halsema plans to overhaul the area which can often find itself at the centre of out-of-control nightlife. Plans include increasing the size of the district to deal with overcrowding and outlawing cannabis smoking on the street.

It will be a tricky manoeuvre as the city remains popular among tourists – fifth in the world and second in Europe in terms of cities with the biggest international traveller spend – and they don’t all come for the museums and shopping.

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21 of the best cities to visit in europe.

Traveling in Europe is a bucket list destination for people who dream of visiting castles, walking on romantic cobble stone streets, and eating pasta in the Italian countryside.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your own European vacation, our list contains both the major best cities to visit in Europe, plus a few equally fabulous and charming small cities that you many travelers don’t think to consider.

With so many cultures, languages, and cuisines in such close range, you can make a very diverse vacation in Europe by visiting the major cities, or — better yet — getting a little further from the typical tourist destinations to immerse yourself even more.

We personally love visiting the big cities, but we’ve also explored the smaller locations and often feel like the experience is even better in the smaller cities and countryside, plus there are more unique places to stay .

Planning for Europe? Here’s more…

• How to Plan a 2-Week Trip to Europe
• Ultimate Summer Europe Packing Guide
• 11 Charming Small Towns & Cities in Europe

Our Favorite European Cities to Visit

Paris, france.

Who doesn’t love Paris? It’s been called many things by travelers, like The City of Lights, the most romantic city on earth, the food capital of the world, etc.

I think it’s all of those things, but most of all Paris is what you make it. Have you explored Paris yet? If not, you should add it to your vacation plans this year!

The best part about Paris is that it’s seemingly packed full of surprises. You can go to the  major attractions , climb the Eiffel Tower , and  eat crepes all day , or you can push all that tourist stuff aside and explore the less touristy aspects of Paris, of which you’ll find many.

See our shortcut travel guide to Paris for all the best hotels, neighborhoods, things to do, and places to eat and drink in the City of Lights.

• How to Spend One Day in Paris
• 3-Day Paris Itinerary for First Timers
• Fun Foodie Things to Do in Paris

Rome, Italy

Rome is a city that will capture your heart the moment you arrive. It’s incredible to see so much history packed into one place, and so much of it is scattered right in the middle of a modern city.

There’s really no where else like it. You’ll want to spend days wandering around the Roman ruins in the forum, eating all the great Roman food , getting lost in the maze of streets, and looking in awe upon the Colosseum.

Do keep in mind that Rome is a very popular tourist destination, so hotels, tours and activities fill up and sell out quickly. This is one city where it pays to plan ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute to secure tickets for things you want to see like the Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum.

If you’re planning a trip to Rome, we’ve got you covered with our essential travel guide to Rome : an informative and helpful infographic that will give you a quick peek at all the top things you should plan to do in Rome, where to stay, how to get around, and most importantly – what to eat in Rome!

• What to Do in Rome in 3 Days
• Eat Like a Local on This Rome Food Tour 
• Shortcut Travel Guide to Rome Italy [Infographic] 

Porto, Portugal

Home to dozens of Port wine producers, Porto, Portugal, is a fantastic place to visit if you’re a wine lover, but even if you’re not into that, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Porto .

It’s one of our favorite places in Portugal and a must-do for your Portugal itinerary . Porto is an incredibly picturesque city, set along the western coast of Portugal , about a two-hour train ride from Lisbon.

There are two halves to the city, divided by the beautiful Duoro River: the city of Porto lies to the north, while the historic Port city and all of the Port wine houses are in Vila Nova de Gaia, which lies to the south.

To get a full feel for the city, you really need to visit both. One of the main reasons people initially consider going to Porto is because of the Port.

If you’re a wine lover, you absolutely must take some time to  visit the Port houses . Used entirely to store aging wine and welcome visitors, there are literally dozens of Port houses along the banks of the river and up into the hillside.

• Where to Eat and Drink in Porto, Portugal
• 10 Fun Things to Do in Porto
• 10 Port Houses to Visit in Porto

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is a great destination for travelers, especially from the United States because it’s such an easy destination to travel to. Not only do they speak English, it’s easy to find a million things to do in the city, and you really don’t need a car to get around.

If you choose to leave the city, out in the countryside the roads get a bit windy and narrow, but are well-marked. There are many reasons why people love spending time in Dublin.

The old churches, the Guinness Storehouse , Dublin Castle , the lively Temple Bar neighborhood, just to name a few. That also means that it can get quick packed in the city.

You need to have a good game plan for what you’re going to do and how. I always recommend getting the Dublin Pass , because it will help you see the most things in the shortest amount of time, and while saving tons of money.

It comes with a free ride on the Hop On Hop Off bus, which is the easiest way to get to all the top sights, plus free entry to the Guinness Storehouse and many more attractions.

• Shortcut Travel Guide to Dublin [Infographic]
• 13 Amazing Ireland Road Trips You’ll Love 
• Best Day Trips from Dublin in Ireland’s Ancient East

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city with a ridiculous amount of history. The home of the waltz, Habsburg Palaces and an unrivaled musical past, it’s simply overflowing with culture and excitement.

Walk for an evening through the cobblestone streets in the center city and you can almost hear a famous composer at work. In fact, many of the walking areas are lined with small orchestral ensembles playing their way through the evening.

Elbowing in on their act, of course, are those unique artist who dress in a period piece and then stand in one position for what seems time eternal.

The only downside to Vienna is that it is very expensive. If you are going to spend some time in the city, be ready to pay for the privilege.

Tours to take in Vienna:

• Vienna’s Highlights: Food, Coffee and Market Small Group Walking Experience
• Skip the Line: Schonbrunn Palace Guided Tour in Vienna
• Vienna City Center Small-Group Walking Tour

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is one of my favorite small cities to visit in Europe . The real home of Mozart, Salzburg is Vienna’s smaller sister, with less of the hustle and bustle.

A walk through the shopping district will leave you breathless and, sometimes, penniless, but it is very worthwhile. Salzburg is a city where you can drink beer with monks, take in an opera, walk through exquisite rose gardens, and stroll through the pedestrian-only old town.

There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants to fill the down time, and the food is great.

Salzburg is just a short distance from Munich, so we always recommend putting the two together if you’re planning a trip. You can take the train between them cheaply and easily.

Munich, Germany

There are a lot of great cities and regions in Germany, but one of the cities we love the most is Munich. This city is the capital of the Bavaria region that is home to some of my favorite architecture and food.

Not only do they host the largest beer festival in the world, Oktoberfest, they have a great many museums, a beautiful town square, and so many fun beer gardens.

Capital of the southern province of Bavaria, Munich brings to mind images of ledehosen and foaming steins of beer. In fact Munich is a sophisticated city that’s home to a multitude of cultural offerings including museums and a lively arts scene.

Getting around Munich is easy via an excellent public transport network which includes an underground and buses. You can also cycle. Walking through the old town center is also a favorite pastime in Munich.

• How to Visit Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
• How to Plan a Trip to Oktoberfest in Munich
• Munich Oktoberfest Guide for Newbies

Rothenberg ob der Tauber, Germany

You can’t leave Germany until you’ve visited the cutest little city you’ll ever see, Rothenberg ob der Tauber Rothenburg is a charming German town in northern Bavaria known for its medieval architecture.

Half-timbered houses line the cobblestone lanes of its old town, making for a very picturesque village setting. The still-standing town walls include many preserved gate houses and towers, plus a covered walkway on top that you can traverse in parts.

The medieval Town Hall has a clock tower that draws crowds and offers panoramic views. If you’re looking for something truly special to do at Christmas time, put Rothenburg on our list.

All the Christmas markets pop up and Gluhwein can be found everywhere. It’s simply magical.

Athens, Greece

Many people visit Athens for the history and archaeology, of course. The Pantheon and other Roman ruins in the city are astounding. The views from the top of the Acropolis are unbelievable.

And then there’s the food. Don’t forget about the incredible foodie experiences that will introduce you to the amazing food in Athens .

Get ready to do a LOT of walking as you meander through the archaeological history of Athens. It’s a city you need at least 2-3 days to explore.

To show you the best side of Athens, we’ve put together a handy infographic . It will help you start planning your trip by showing you all the best hotels, neighborhoods, things to do, and places to eat and drink in the Athens.

• Shortcut Travel Guide to Athens, Greece
• Athens Food Tour with Greeking.Me
• Greek Island Ferries: How to Take the Athens to Santorini Ferry
• 13 Incredible Places to Visit in Greece

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is a brilliant city, both in the short, cold hours of winter, and the long, warm days of summer. You’ll find many great things to fill your vacation in Stockholm.

One of my favorite things to do, besides walking around the incredible Gamla Stan, is taking an archipelago cruise around the outskirts of the city. There are dozens of islands scattered around the waterways. You absolutely must get out on the water to see it all.

You may not have guessed it, but Stockholm also has fantastic food , and many unique foods and drinks you should try while you’re there. It’s a great idea to go on a food tour at the beginning of your time there to get acquainted with the local food and find all the great spots to go back to during your stay.

It is an awesome city, easy to walk around, with plenty of things to do and see, especially in the summer months when the sun stays up until late into the night.

During the winter, you can stay indoors by traveling along the subway system to admire the subway art . It’s a thing – believe me.

• Shortcut Travel Guide to Stockholm, Sweden
• Self-Guided Stockholm Subway Art Tour
• Discover Sweden on a Stockholm Food Tour
• The Best of Stockholm Sweden – City Discovery Series

Madrid, Spain

Madrid is not a sightseeing haven like Paris or Rome, but there are a host of attractions like the Prado museum, Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace that you must see, along with fantastic Spanish food to discover.

Sitting at one of the many street-side cafes and observing the passing procession and street artists is one of my favorite things to do in Madrid.

A close second is going on a food tour to find all the top spots to eat tapas. Book your food tour here . There are many other cities in Spain that are just a short day trip from Madrid, like Segovia, Ávila & Toledo , which you can reach by bus tour.

Another of our favorite day trips from Madrid is to the Ribera del Duero wine region. You can book a wine tasting day trip to the region here .

• Where and What to Eat On a Madrid Tapas Crawl

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a city rich in culture and history, a city of castles, cathedrals, museums and Turkish baths. Uniquely Hungarian and not short of attractions, Budapest is a popular European city break destination.

Over 2,000 years old, Budapest is a large city containing traces of the various forces that have ruled it over time. Romans, Turks, Goths and many others have conquered the city.

Somehow, the various influences work in such a way as to make the city sparkle. In a bit of trivia, Budapest was historically considered three cities. The three cities were Pest, Obuda and Buda.

Although grouped together, the cities were naturally divided by the Danube River which forks in the middle of the city. In 1873, the three cities were combined into one and given the Budapest name.

Although Budapest has many top attractions, one of the most visited is Buda Castle. Sitting on top of a hill and towering over the Danube, the castle is stunning.

Construction started under the guidance of King Bela IV in the 14th century and was expanded upon by later rulers.

Visiting Buda Castle is like stepping back into the heights of the renaissance. The Castle is adorned with red marble stairways, gothic facades, bastions and epic statutes overlooking the Danube.

The fountains around the Castle simply can’t be described with words. A nation with no less than 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Hungary on a whole is a fantastic country to explore, and Budapest is the main jumping-off point.

• Hungarian Wine Tasting in Budapest with Taste Hungary
• 6 Must-Visit Wineries in Tokaj Hungary 
• The Top 5 Wines You Must Try in Hungary

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of those cities that everyone wants to travel to in their lifetime. Whether it’s for its medieval architecture, its Bohemian culture, or because it’s the beer-drinking capital of the world, there’s something for every kind of traveler in Prague.

You may not immediately think of Prague as a  foodie city , but it is in its own way. There are many foods you must try while in the Czech Republic, and plenty of really fantastic restaurants in Prague where you can acquaint yourself.

Don’t forget the beer! Prague has dozens of bars where you can try the local craft beer. Here is your essential travel guide to Prague with all the best hotels, neighborhoods, things to do, and places to eat and drink in the Czech capital, along with a comprehensive 2-day itinerary of things to do in Prague.

• Shortcut Travel Guide to Prague [Infographic] 
• Discover Modern Czech Cuisine on a Prague Food Tour
• What to Do in Prague in 2 Days

Amsterdam, Netherlands

One of the ‘greatest small cities in the world’, Amsterdam is world famous for its canal system and its tolerance and diversity. A trip along the canals is a must for every lover of architecture.

The city is also known for soft drugs, with its plethora of marijuana bars (called coffee shops) and prostitution. There are many different sides and personalities to Amsterdam.

You can make of it what you want and in many ways, Amsterdam can become anything you want it to be. As a tourist, you’ll likely find it to be a very welcoming and acceptable place. The food in Amsterdam is exciting, with many new things to try.

Amsterdam has a unique culture, exquisite nightlife, amazing lodging options for every budget, great transport connectivity and an authentic bike experience.

The beautiful weather all year round has made this jewel of The Netherlands a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. Among the popular tourist attractions in the city are The Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum , as well as the Anne Frank House.

Amsterdam has over fifty museums to explore. You’ll also want to go on a day trip to the Keukenhof gardens   to see the flower fields in spring.

• Shortcut Travel Guide to Amsterdam
• Where to Find the Best Beer in Amsterdam 
• Travel to Amsterdam Planning Guide

Venice, Italy

Venice is just one of those places you have to visit at least once in your life. It’s an incredibly enchanting city, with so much character that you feel a little like you’re floating around in a Disney movie.

The views across the Grand Canal are so beautiful, and the narrow alleys can lead you to get lost in a city of charm. Everywhere you turn is another incredible view, and a gondola floating by in the distance, and a food opportunity you can’t pass up.

That being said, it is highly recommended to go there during a shoulder season. While Venice really doesn’t have a low season, you really don’t want to be there during the summer months, when the tiny alleyways are so packed with people you can’t even walk around.

The best time to go is actually in the winter, when the crowds have thinned out, the weather is much less stagnant, and the water is cleaner. However, we find it best to avoid November, as this is a period with historic flooding in Venice.

• Shortcut Travel Guide to Venice Italy [Infographic]
• Top Foods to Try on a Venice Food Tour
• Guide to the Best Wine Regions in Italy

Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy, is a city that captures the hearts of many would-be travelers before they’ve even bought a flight.

It’s one of the cities in the world that everyone dreams to going, and for good reason – it’s not only the capital of the Tuscany region, it’s also renown for Renaissance art and architecture.

The architecturally stunning buildings of Florence house some of the world’s most treasured art, but that’s not all Florence has going for it. There are outdoor markets, quirky shops of all kinds, and food that draws nearly as long of lines as the art galleries.

For most visitors, 2-3 days is sufficient time to cover the main attractions of the city, but if you’re a museum lover or art history buff, you’ll probably want to consider spending at least 5-7 days.

There are also day trips to consider, as many of Italy’s gems are within an easy day trip from Florence, like the  Chianti wine region ,  Bologna , and Verona.

Recommended Tours

• Top Things To Do in Florence Italy
• Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside
• Skip the line: Uffizi and Accademia small group hidden street walking tour

Copenhagen, Denmark

There’s a reason that Denmark is ranked among the happiest countries in the World, and some of that joy surely transfers to tourists when they visit Copenhagen .

Copenhagen is a very welcoming city, with many iconic tourist attractions that are hard to resist. Add to that the great food you’ll find in Copenhagen, like the New Nordic Cuisine movement, and it’s a perfect place to travel. Check out our Copenhagen in 36 Hours itinerary.

If it hasn’t made it on your must-see list yet, we’ve got the perfect Copenhagen travel guide that will change your mind and have you planning a visit to Copenhagen in the near future.

• Grand Day Trip around Copenhagen
• Copenhagen Canal Tour – Exploring Hidden Gems
• The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour

Barcelona, Spain (Catalonia)

An increasingly popular destination, Barcelona’s modern face is fashionable and vibrant but still holds the Spanish traditional spirit.

Parts of the city are haunted by the spirit of the eccentric genius Gaudi who fantastic architecture dazzles the imagination. The most captivating of Gaudi’s work is the Sagrada Familia, the final and unfinished work of the Catalan artist.

This audacious building, a mix of architectural styles (Neo-Gothic, Cubist and Art Nouveau), was started in 1883 and today still remains unfinished, following the express wishes of the artist.

The incomplete building is intended to signify the tortuous and unending path of the individuals in their search for God and spirituality. The city is pedestrian friendly which helps when exploring the sights on foot.

If you want a faster way to get around, the metro is an easy option. There are a variety of different neighborhoods you’ll want to explore, try the food , and spend time at wine bars and outdoor cafes.

The most pleasant weather in Barcelona is between May and June. Summer temperatures can reach a simmering 34 C. When October comes around it starts to cool off with a little rain. 

• Essential Travel Guide to Barcelona [Infographic]
• Devouring Barcelona Food and Wine Tour
• What to Eat in Barcelona: Top 10 Restaurants to Try

Split, Croatia

With some of the most dramatic views, history, and culture in Croatia , Split is a fantastic destination for a long, relaxing vacation, or a short city break.

One of the best ways to really immerse yourself in Croatia is to not only spend time in Split, but also take advantage of all best day trips from Split.

Within a short distance from Split, there are natural wonders, caves, waterfalls, islands, and cities both inside and outside of Croatia to discover.

You’ll quickly find that you need more than a few days to see it all. Plan ahead to include these day trips in your visit to Split. You will be amazed at how much beauty and excitement lies with a quick trip from the city.

• 8 Best Day Trips from Split, Croatia
• Wine Tasting in Croatia’s Dalmatia Wine Region
• How to Spend Four Days in Dubrovnik Croatia

Bordeaux, France

It’s time to branch out and discover other cities in France beyond Paris. There are some really fantastic cities to explore, like Bordeaux. Bordeaux is known, informally, as the wine capital of the world.

There is an enthralling combination of history, medieval culture, and good food and wine that makes Bordeaux a prime destination for all travelers, not just wine lovers. If you stayed in Bordeaux for a full week of wine tasting , you would still feel that you only scratched the surface.

You’ll want to save time to explore all of the famous regions, including Medoc , Graves, Saint-Emilion , Pomerol, and the Sauternes region that produces amazing sweet white wine.

Bordeaux is, in many ways, a smaller version of Paris, and it is just as enchanting. The architecture is very similar, the food is just as French, the museums are world-class, the wine is superb.

The only thing that’s missing is the Eiffel Tower. Read more in our guide on how to spend a week in Bordeaux and the 14 top Saint-Emilion wineries to visit.

• Saint Emilion Day Trip with Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings from Bordeaux
• Medoc Region Wine Day Trip with Vineyard Visits & Tastings from Bordeaux
• Bordeaux Old Town & Market Local Food with Wine Tastings Tour

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a city that holds a certain mystery, due to its interesting history that forever changed the world. Between its storied past and its modern present day, Berlin is a great place to visit.

Do keep in mind that Berlin is a very popular tourist destination, so hotels, tours and activities fill up quickly. It pays to plan ahead for your visit to Berlin, by booking your hotel, figuring out transportation, and deciding on what you’d like to do.

Some of the top activities in Berlin are to visit the remains of the Berlin Wall, visit the many museums on Museum Island – both historic and cultural, see the Brandenburg Gate, and eat some Curry Wurst.

We went on this 4-hour walking tour of the city that was hugely informative. If you’re planning a trip to Berlin, we’ve got you covered with our travel guide to Berlin , which includes what to do, see and eat in the city.

• Essential Travel Guide to Berlin: What to See, Do, & Eat

There are a lot of fantastic cities to visit in Europe , and our list has only scratched the surface, but we truly love all of the cities listed here.

We’ve spent time exploring and discovering each and believe they are some of the best places to spend a vacation in Europe.

Most people don’t just visit one European city on their vacation, so use this list as inspiration to plan your European trip .

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

8 Unique Places to Stay in Europe & UK

21 Best Places to Spend Christmas in Europe

18 Best Wine Regions in Europe for Wine Lovers

Northern Europe Cruises: Everything You Need to Know to Start Planning

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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17 Best European Cities for an Unforgettable Vacation

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ve put together a curated list of the best European cities that will undoubtedly ignite your wanderlust and provide you with unforgettable travel experiences.

If you’ve been considering a European adventure that promises rich history, captivating culture, and breathtaking landscapes, you’re in for a treat.

Europe, with its diverse array of nations, offers a range of enchanting destinations, each with its own unique charm.

From the romantic canals of Venice to the vibrant streets of Barcelona and the timeless elegance of Paris to the historic grandeur of Prague, these cities have been carefully chosen to showcase the very best Europe has to offer.

So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culinary aficionado, or simply seeking picturesque views, explore this guide to discover the Best European cities waiting to capture your heart and soul.

Table of Contents

Best European Cities

Dublin, ireland.

Dublin , Ireland , is undeniably one of the best European cities to visit, offering a multitude of attractions and activities to explore.

You’ll find plenty of historical landmarks, including the renowned Trinity College and its prized possession, the Book of Kells , which dates back to the 9th century.

The city’s vibrant atmosphere comes alive in the bustling Temple Bar district, where you can enjoy art galleries, delectable Irish cuisine, and traditional music in cozy pubs.

In Dublin, you simply can’t miss the opportunity to indulge in an authentic Irish breakfast or relish the perfect pint of Guinness.

What’s more? You can try out fun day trips from Dublin by train for an unmatched journey. This city mixes its age-old history with a modern vibe, making it a top pick among the best European cities to visit.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark, stands out as one of the best European cities to visit, offering a perfect blend of modernity and timeless charm. This city boasts an array of attractions, from the picturesque Nyhavn harbor to the historic Tivoli Gardens .

Exploring the city by bike is a must-try, as Copenhagen’s bike-friendly culture allows you to immerse yourself in its beauty effortlessly.

And don’t leave without savoring a Danish pastry, particularly the renowned “wienerbrod.” With its captivating blend of contemporary living and rich heritage, Copenhagen promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Spain , is undeniably one of the best European cities to visit, thanks to its rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant energy. While exploring this Mediterranean gem, there are also numerous free things to do in Barcelona .

Take a leisurely stroll down La Rambla, a bustling tree-lined promenade perfect for people-watching. Visit the enchanting Park Güell , designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, and admire its colorful mosaics and whimsical architecture.

Don’t miss the Gothic Quarter, where you can wander through historic streets and discover hidden squares.

An essential part of the Barcelona experience is savoring a day at the city’s stunning beaches, such as Barceloneta Beach, where you can unwind, swim, or bask in the sun.

As the sun sets, Barcelona’s vibrant nightlife comes alive, offering a diverse range of entertainment options for night owls.

With its wealth of free and captivating activities, Barcelona ensures an unforgettable experience for travelers on any budget, both day and night. It’s one of the best European beach cities!

Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy , undoubtedly ranks among the best Western European cities to visit, and its allure is deeply rooted in its folklore and timeless beauty.

Visitors are drawn to iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Never miss out on wandering through the ancient cobblestone streets of the historic center, where you’ll encounter stunning hidden gems in Rome , like the tucked-away neighborhood of Trastevere with its charming piazzas and quaint cafes.

Explore the lesser-known Basilica di San Clemente, an architectural marvel with multiple layers of history beneath its surface.

Moreover, Rome’s vibrant nightlife scene, with its bustling bars, lively clubs, and spirited street performances, adds a modern twist to the city’s timeless allure.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, Northern Ireland, stands as one of the Best European cities to visit, captivating travelers with its intriguing blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

If you’re looking for some serious excitement in Belfast, get to exploring its troubled yet fascinating history through the Titanic Belfast Museum , where you can learn about the ill-fated ship’s construction.

Stroll through the colorful streets of the Cathedral Quarter, filled with lively pubs, art galleries, and street art.

Don’t miss the enchanting Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder located just a short drive from Belfast, with its hexagonal basalt columns and dramatic coastal views.

Belfast’s unique charm and captivating ancient tales make it a top destination among the best European cities.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague , Czech Republic, is undeniably one of the best Eastern European cities, celebrated for its remarkable history, stunning architecture, and enduring charm.

For a unique experience in Prague, venture into the enchanting Old Town Square, where you’ll find the iconic Astronomical Clock and historic buildings that transport you back in time.

Stroll across the romantic Charles Bridge and explore Prague Castle, a sprawling complex with breathtaking views of the city.

Prague is also famous for its vibrant arts scene, so consider catching a performance at the National Theatre or delving into the intriguing works at the Museum of Communism.

Whether you’re discovering historical treasures or immersing yourself in the city’s cultural richness, Prague offers a wealth of options for travelers seeking the very best European cities have to offer.

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich, Switzerland, is definitely a must-visit city on any Switzerland bucket list , renowned for its picturesque landscapes, cultural richness, and vibrant urban life.

While in Zurich, be sure to explore the charming Old Town, with its historic architecture and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Swiss National Museum , offering insights into Switzerland’s heritage.

Try out a scenic cruise on Lake Zurich, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps. With its perfect blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan attractions, Zurich ranks among the best cities to visit in Switzerland.

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Luxembourg City, nestled in the heart of Europe, is a captivating destination known for its rich folklore, stunning architecture, and inviting ambiance.

While exploring this enchanting city, be sure to immerse yourself in the picturesque Old Town, with its medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and the iconic Luxembourg Castle.

Don’t overlook visits to the impressive Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic Bock Casemates , offering glimpses into the city’s fortified past.

While in Luxembourg City, consider a leisurely stroll along the scenic Pétrusse Valley, providing breathtaking views of the city’s lush greenery and dramatic cliffs.

With its harmonious blend of historical treasures and natural beauty, Luxembourg City ranks among Europe’s top cities to explore.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh , Scotland , is undeniably among Europe’s top cities to explore, renowned for its abundant history, magnificent architecture, and thriving cultural scene.

While in Edinburgh, explore the historic Royal Mile, home to iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Never miss the opportunity to go hiking up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano in Holyrood Park, for breathtaking views of the city and countryside. Edinburgh’s blend of history and culture promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, is an iconic metropolis renowned for its profound historical legacy, world-famous landmarks, and vibrant tapestry of culture.

Explore the historical marvels of the Acropolis, where you can stand in awe of the Parthenon and other ancient wonders. Discover the charming Plaka neighborhood, known for its traditional Greek tavernas and picturesque streets.

For a unique experience, take a leisurely hike up Lycabettus Hill to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea.

Athens, as one of the most beautiful cities in Greece , offers a unique blend of ancient and contemporary experiences, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking the very best of European cities to explore.

Munich, Germany

Discover the captivating allure of Munich , Germany , a city renowned for its unmatched cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.

Amidst the historic treasures like the Nymphenburg Palace and Frauenkirche, explore the charming streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) and savor traditional Bavarian cuisine at local beer gardens.

To truly immerse yourself in Munich’s culture, embark on a delightful Bavarian food tour, indulging in pretzels, sausages, and schnitzels .

Munich’s harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy beckons travelers to explore the very best of European cities.

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London, England

Explore the dynamic city of London , England , hailed as one of the world’s premier destinations. London, with its abundant history and a wealth of diverse cultural experiences, caters to the interests of every traveler.

Wander through the historic streets of Greenwich, home to the Royal Observatory and the Meridian Line, where you can straddle two hemispheres.

Do visit Camden Market, a vibrant hub of creativity and commerce, where you can shop for eclectic fashion, sample global cuisine, and soak in artistic energy.

London’s unique blend of tradition and modernity promises an unforgettable experience for travelers exploring the very best of European cities.

Porto, Portugal

Porto , Portugal , is one of the best small European cities, known for its rich history, charming architecture, and exceptional port wine.

While in Porto, explore the historic Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of its narrow streets and colorful buildings along the Douro River.

Don’t miss a visit to the Livraria Lello, an enchanting bookstore often linked to inspiring J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.

To truly immerse yourself in Porto’s culture, savor a leisurely meal at a local eatery, enjoying traditional Portuguese dishes like Francesinha or Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá.

Porto’s unique blend of culture and flavors promises an unforgettable experience for travelers exploring Europe’s best small cities.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria, is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning architecture, and delightful cuisine, making it a top pick among European cities to explore.

While in Vienna, immerse yourself in the opulence of the Hofburg Palace, stroll through the historic streets of the Innere Stadt, and marvel at the iconic Schönbrunn Palace .

To truly experience Vienna, you must know what to eat in Vienna , like indulging in its culinary delights, savoring classics like Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte (chocolate cake), and a cup of Viennese coffee at one of the city’s charming coffeehouses.

Vienna offers a perfect blend of history and gastronomic pleasures for travelers seeking the best of European cities.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, Belgium, ranks among the best European cities to explore, known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic landmarks, and delectable chocolates.

Visit the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the city’s Art Nouveau architecture. A must-do in Brussels is to savor authentic Belgian chocolates, known worldwide for their exquisite flavors and craftsmanship.

Brussels offers a delightful blend of history and gastronomic delights for travelers seeking the best of European cities.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia, is certainly one of the best cities to visit in Europe, celebrated for its stunning coastal beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.

While in Dubrovnik, explore the well-preserved medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and stroll along the historic city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.

Additionally, don’t miss taking a cable car ride to Mount Srd for breathtaking vistas of the city and its surrounding islands.

Dubrovnik offers a remarkable fusion of historical charm and natural splendor, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking the best of European cities.

Paris, France

Paris , France , stands out as a top destination, celebrated for its romantic atmosphere, iconic landmarks, and delightful culinary scene. Explore famous sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the charming Montmartre district.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Parisian café culture by enjoying coffee at classic establishments such as Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, and Le Procope.

Paris offers a captivating mix of culture, charm, and gastronomic delights, ensuring an unforgettable experience for travelers exploring European cities.

Final Thoughts: Best Cities in Europe

The best European cities await your discovery, promising an enticing blend of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences.

From the romantic allure of Paris to the coastal charm of Dubrovnik, embark on your journey to explore the very best of European cities and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss your chance to explore these captivating destinations!

Save this post for later:

Explore more of Europe:

• Plan your European Christmas holiday with the best places to visit in Europe in winter.
• Visit some of the best European fairytale castles !
• Learn how to see some popular European cities from above with these vantage points .
• Explore other European romantic cities .
• Enjoy Cinque Terre with the 15 best things to do there.

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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The 10 Best European Cities to Visit for Every Travel Style

A European vacation can be an exciting way to spend your next vacation. Whether a romantic, family, or friends trip, here's where to go.

Dorian Smith-Garcia • Apr 18, 2024

The world is a big place and for passport holders , there’s no limit to where that little book can take them. With seven continents to choose from, picking the next destination can be hard sometimes. But combine this with the reality that not everyone has unlimited paid time off, and it gets even trickier. 

Many travelers try to maximize their time off by visiting multiple locales in one trip. Especially since travel is significantly cheaper once travelers are in Europe, hopping between countries or even several cities within one country is fairly affordable and is a great way to pack in several destinations in one European holiday. If a Eurotrip is on the horizon, here’s a list of some of the best cities to visit and why.

The Best European Cities for Romantic Getaways

Technically any place can be romantic as long as the company is right. But for couples that want romantic vistas, activities that bring two people closer together, and a dreamy experience from start to finish, there are a few cities that reign supreme.  

Unsurprisingly, Paris tops this list since it’s known as the city of love. For couples that prefer those classic romantic touristy experiences, visiting the Eiffel Tower, strolling through Versailles, and even shopping (or window shopping) through the Champs-Élysées can’t be missed. Meanwhile, France as a nation is world-renowned for its indulgent cuisine and top-tier restaurants — that’s undoubtedly a great backdrop for a romantic getaway.

For as much as Paris snags the title as the most romantic city in the world, that boot-shaped country to the south is a very popular romantic destination. Of all the Italian cities, Venice tops the list for romantic backdrops. The canals in particular are a popular draw as gondoliers navigate the historic canals lined with brightly colored buildings. But beyond the gondolas, Venice is home to gorgeous architecture like St. Mark’s Basilica and picturesque backdrops like the Rialto Bridge. Venice also hosts an impressive array of festivals throughout the year and has plenty of culture like theaters and live performances. 

Some travelers might be surprised to see Amsterdam categorized as a romantic city given the city’s liberal laws on recreational drug use and adult industries. The Netherlands’ capital also doubles as a fun party city. But architecturally, Amsterdam is a beautiful place to get lost with a romantic partner.  Similar to Venice, Amsterdam is an aquatic city with countless waterways for locals and tourists to traverse. While travelers still need boats to get around, gondolas are replaced with motorized boats and the canals are much larger. 

Nothing brings two people together faster than trying to keep warm. Reykjavik , Iceland is a destination that’s known for its natural beauty. The most popular times to go will coincide with the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights — so plan ahead. This tends to be between September through Mid-April when solar activity is at its highest. Still, this Icelandic hot spot is known for its thermal springs like the Blue Lagoon, unique architecture, and nearby natural wonders like the Gullfoss waterfall and Strokkur geyser which are both located in Thingvellir National Park. 

The Best European Cities for Family Vacations

Getting exposure to various cultures is the best way to ensure that the younger generations grow up with exposure to differences and break down barriers. If a European family vacation is on the horizon, here are a few family-friendly cities to shortlist. 

Ideally, it pays to speak another language. But not everyone is bilingual or a polyglot (speaking more than two languages). And when traveling with small kids or even a large family group, having “lost in translation” moments is beyond frustrating. London is a city that has everything — which makes it perfect for a multigenerational family trip — and where the locals speak English. 

Between historical sites, modern wonders like the London Eye, and even pop cultural references like Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Crossing Station. Additionally, London tends to be a more affordable option for American travelers thanks to a wider range of accommodation options. 

For families that do speak another language, or don’t mind being fully immersed in places where they don’t speak the main language, Madrid is a popular destination. Along with being Spain’s capital city, it is considered one of the most kid-friendly cities in the country. The Casa de Campo public park is home to both the Madrid Zoo Aquarium and an amusement park. Families can also catch a Real Madrid game, tour the Royal Palace, or walk any of the numerous famous gardens scattered across the city. Additionally, Madrid is famous for its expansive public transportation, and moderately priced accommodations. 

Even though Greece is an island, it’s still part of Europe. Athens is a great historical destination and movie lovers will appreciate that it served as the backdrop for “Indiana Jones,” “Hercules” and several more productions. Obviously the ruins like the Acropolis — which is home to the Parthenon and Erechtheion —  are some of the biggest draws for this ancient city. However, Athens also hosts food tours and has a regular changing of the guard in the Syntagma Square. 

The Best European Cities for Group Trips

Whether it’s a girl’s trip or an all-genders retreat for the besties, Europe is ready to host groups of all compositions. So, when planning a group trip, here are a few fun cities to add to the list. 

If that group trip is meant to be something of a retreat, it doesn’t get any better than Lake Cuomo. This quiet yet tony locale that’s nestled in northern Italy is perfect for amateur paparazzi that want to see celebrities from around the world. Along with the actual Lake Cuomo which is perfect for yachting, the nearby town offers idyllic walks through historic architecture. But plan accordingly since this tony retreat will set travelers back significantly. 

If it’s a rowdy bunch that wants to be outside all the time during their group trip, head to Berlin. Germany’s capital city literally has it all from culture to nightlife, and an impressive and growing foodie scene. Specifically, Berlin is considered one of the top cities in Germany and across Europe for clubbing. 

This is one place where there’s no such thing as a hard stop for when all the bars or nightclubs need to close. Likewise, affordable food and drinks, and easy access to reliable transportation (both public and ride-sharing), easily makes the case for Berlin as a fun stop for a group trip. 

Monte Carlo

Rounding out the best group trip European cities list is Monte Carlo. Located in Monaco — a small island nation located off the French Riviera — Monte Carlo is known for its sophisticated nightlife and cultural scene. The country is notable for its tony residents and the fact that it’s a popular spot for the rich and famous to spend time. From Formula One racing to casinos straight out of “James Bond”, there’s plenty to keep any friend’s group occupied and happy. And if anyone wants to visit nearby France or Italy, it’s a quick ride away for a day trip.  

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Best Countries to Combine for an Unforgettable Europe Trip

by tbales | Sep 24, 2019 | resources | 0 comments

One of the best things about visiting Europe is that there’s no need to stay in just one country. With borders easily crossed by air, train, bus, road or ferry, you can combine two or more countries on your European adventure, with many closely complementing the other whilst offering a completely different experience at the same time.

Norway and Sweden

If you’re planning an unforgettable Scandinavian experience, then Norway and Sweden are an amazing combination of countries to visit. Whilst visiting both you will find plenty of similarities, but also distinct differences between the two locations and cultures. Norway is home to a beautiful blend of both city and country life, with modern shopping centers and the Opera house to see in the capital of Oslo, whilst further into the country you’ll find stunning landscapes and picturesque Fjords.

Sweden is by far cheaper for those who enjoy shopping, and getting there from Norway is easy – you can find direct flights from major airports, or travel from Oslo to Stockholm by train in a matter of hours. A guided tour allows you to see popular Scandinavian itineraries by travel experts .

Germany and Austria

Exploring Germany is a trip on its own, with a diverse range of destinations to visit in the country. Most tourists get started in Berlin, a modern and vibrant city where there’s no shortage of things to do. Explore the history and heritage of Germany at the Berlin Wall Museum and the DDR museum, or be amazed by the gorgeous and often unusual artwork, much of which promotes peace and unity at the East Side Gallery. Head to Munich, Frankfurt, or Cologne for a different city experience or visit Bavaria in southern Germany where you’ll find truly charming medieval towns and see the stupendous Bavarian Alps.

From Germany, you can easily get to Austria – train info – https://rail.ninja/route/munich-to-vienna here – where you can wonder at more natural beauty or visit the capital of Vienna for a truly classical experience – as the birthplace of Mozart, it’s a must-see for classical music fans and the architecture here is unforgettable.

Netherlands and Belgium

Two countries that are closely intertwined, the Netherlands and Belgium are the perfect combination for anybody visiting this part of Europe. Amsterdam is a great start; you’ll find gorgeous canals, interesting historical sites like the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum, and the world-famous Red Light District. Outside of the capital check out Rotterdam Harbor, visit the Gouda Cheese Market or head to Keukenhof to wonder at the most beautiful spring garden in the world.

From here, Belgium can be easily reached by bus, train or a day tour – don’t miss the Grand Place in Brussels or enjoy a full day tour of Bruges from Amsterdam.

Spain and Portugal

If you’re looking to soak up the sun and relax on stunning beaches, Spain and Portugal is a great combination. You’ll find these two countries to be very similar but, look out for the many distinct differences along the way. You can easily cover all the main areas in two weeks or so, including Spanish must-sees like Madrid, Barcelona, Andalusia, and Granada, before heading over the border to Portugal and marvelling at the stunning beauty of Lisbon, where you can find travel hubs heading to coastal areas like Albuferia. High-speed trains are available connecting the two countries, or you can fly from most major airports.

Italy and Switzerland

Finally, Italy and Switzerland provide two very distinct experiences, but combining the two is easy. In Switzerland, there are plenty of attractions that you can’t miss such as the famous and stunning Swiss Alps with plenty of skiing opportunities, dramatic views and cable cars at Mount Pilatus, a cruise along Lake Geneva or Lake Zurich, and iconic landmarks like Stein am Rhein and Riffelsee.

From here, head to Italy in just a few hours by train, plane or bus – it’s a good idea to start in Rome, where you can explore major attractions like the Colosseum and Spanish steps before heading to the central travel hub to get to other popular cities like Milan, Florence, Venice and Pisa.

Which of these travel combinations are on your bucket list?

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Multi-country trips in Europe to book now

With its plethora of cultures to experience, its compact size, and its efficient transportation network that includes international trains, highways, and flights, few places make it easier—or more enticing—for travelers to explore multiple countries in one fell swoop than Europe. 

Not sure how to plan a multi-country trip? No worries; the best way to see multiple countries in Europe might just be by joining a group tour. Expert and experienced local guides and Tour Directors can handle every last logistic required to get you from place to place—and help you get acquainted with the customs of each country along the way. Sound exciting? (We thought so.) Here are 10 multi-country trips to consider for your next adventure.

Italy & Greece England & France Portugal & Spain Scotland & Ireland Germany, Switzerland & Austria Norway, Sweden, Finland & Denmark Croatia & Italy Croatia & Solvenia Poland & the Baltics Bulgaria, Serbia & Romania

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• Nov 17, 2020
• 14 min read

Best European Cities to Visit (2021)

Updated: Feb 2, 2023

Are you planning to travel to Europe and don't know which cities to cover on your trip? This article highlights the 15 best European cities to visit, together with information on when to go and the type of trip you can expect. From France to Italy and Spain, Europe is full of beautiful cities with unique characteristics. Whether you love culture, history, art, or simply a sunny place to relax, you will find it all on this interesting continent. Use this list to inspire your next visit to Europe.

I grew up in Belgium and have visited a large number of cities within Europe. This list includes my personal favorites, but also other opinions have been taken into account. And of course, there are tons of other great cities that aren't listed here. A brief list of other great European cities to visit can be found at the end of this article.

For more European cities and places to visit, download our FREE 100 bucket list destinations list .

Granada, Spain

Note: Starting from November this year, you will need to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver and pay a 7 euro fee prior to your travel towards Europe, in order to be allowed to enter the territory.

Located in the province of Andalusía in Southern Spain, Granada is one of the pearls of Europe! Once the capital of Moorish Andalusia, this charming city is now known for its Arabic influences. Granada’s highlight is undoubtedly the Alhambra, a glorious, historical palace and UNESCO World Heritage site. But this is not the only reason why Granada is one of the best European cities to visit! The downtown area is filled with stunning architectural styles, fascinating historic buildings, cozy squares, and delicious (and very affordable!) restaurants. Add to that the lovely year-round weather and the mountainous scenery surrounding the city. The Sierra Nevada National Park is only a 20-minute drive from Granada and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

The best time to visit Granada

As the city enjoys a pleasant climate, Granada can be visited all-year-round! However, the best time to visit Granada is in May and June as well as September and October. During these months the temperatures are pleasant and the flowers are blooming. The summer can get uncomfortably warm with temperatures rising over 40°C (110F). This was also the case when I visited in August!

Perfect for: Backpackers, Budget Travelers, Foodies, Adventure Seekers, Sun Seekers

>>> Get your Spain Pocket Guide

London, United Kingdom

Whether it’s for a short weekend trip or a week-long holiday, London will never bore you! It’s a truly cosmopolitan city filled with iconic landmarks. From the Tower of London to the London Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey, there is so much to explore. But aside from architecture and history, London truly has something for everyone! Watch a musical at the West End Theatre District, admire art at the Tate Modern Museum, stroll around the famous Nottinghill neighborhood , or go shopping at the world-famous department store named Harrods. And if the weather allows, visit one of the many beautiful parks in the city, such as Hyde Park and the Kensington Gardens. Even though London is considered one of the most expensive European cities to visit, it does boast a range of attractions that are free to visit, including ALL of the museums around the city! I spent 6 months in London and absolutely loved it. I still feel like I haven’t explored it all.

The best time to visit London

Thanks to its vibrant scene, London is an all-year-round destination. Whether you come for shopping, sightseeing, or for entertainment. The city enjoys cool winters and warm summers, with frequent rain all year round. Yet, the mildest weather is from March through November, with large crowds in the summer. My favorite time to visit London is December, right before the Christmas holidays. This is when the city lights up and becomes cozier than ever!

Perfect for: First-time visitors to Europe, History and Art buffs, Fashionista's, Party Goers, Musical Lovers

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Lonely Planet’s Best of London

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Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is one of the best European cities to visit for many reasons! Not only is it one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe, but it is also home to a number of renowned cultural attractions. Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square with the Prague astronomical clock to name a few. And best of all? All these historic monuments can easily be explored on foot. But Prague is not only known for its day activities. The city also has a lively nightlife with a large number of jazz clubs, live music, busy pubs, and modern clubs. The perfect combo if you ask me!

The best time to visit Prague

Prague is best explored from the spring to the early fall. While the summers are generally warm with temperatures hovering between 20°C (70F) and 30°C (90F), the spring and fall are mild. However, most travelers visit during the summer months, which also means larger crowds and higher prices. I visited during September, which was a lot quieter . But on the downside, it was also rainy. So be prepared!

Perfect for: Backpackers, Budget travelers, History buffs, Party Goers

>> Get your Prague Pocket Guide !

Bergen, Norway

Bergen is a fascinating historical and cultural city on the southwestern coast of Norway. Even though it's the second-largest city in Norway (after Oslo) it retains much of its small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere. Visit the colorful houses in ‘Bryggen’, learn about the city’s historic importance at one of the museums, or discover one of the art galleries. And once you’ve had enough of the city life, explore its surrounding nature. Hike to one of Bergen’s 7 peaks to soak in the spectacular views of the city, the fjord, and the ocean. Or go on a cruise to observe the fjords up close. Bergen is the gateway for fjord cruises and a nature lover's favorite!

Learn more about Bergen and its attractions in our Western Norway Road Trip Itinerary .

The best time to visit Bergen

Bergen is known for its unrelenting precipitation, with an average of 239 rainy days a year! And although the weather is very unpredictable, we’d recommend visiting during the summer months between June and September. This is when the temperatures are the most pleasant and the fjord cruises are running.

Perfect for: Adventure and Nature Seekers, Road Trippers, Cultural Tourists, Outdoor Enthusiasts

Porto, Portugal

Porto is one of the upcoming hip cities to visit in Europe right now - and for a very good reason. Located along the picturesque Douro River, Porto is famous for its delicious port wine. But it is not only the alcohol that makes this city a must-visit. Portugal’s second-largest city offers one of the best sceneries and shopping in the country. Add to that a stunning Old Town with six bridges that give this city a romantic look, it's no wonder that the historic center of Porto was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I totally fell in love with Porto on my visit and I am sure you will too!

The best time to visit Porto

Don’t confuse the weather of Porto with that of southern Portugal! Porto doesn’t enjoy year-round warm weather. Instead, the climate is considered temperate oceanic with mild, rainy winters and pleasantly warm, sunny summers. Hence, the best time to visit is from May to September. Even in the middle of the summer, temperatures are high but bearable because of a constant cool ocean breeze!

Perfect for: Romance Seekers, Foodies, Budget Travelers, Backpackers, History buffs

Lonely Planet Pocket Porto

Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is a charming city located in the heart of Belgium and Europe! Lesser known and visited than the capital of Brussels and tourist-ridden Bruges, Ghent will exceed all your expectations. This laid-back city is filled with public squares, cobblestone streets, lively bars, and medieval architecture. It is one of the most popular university towns in Belgium, which explains the large crowds of young people! The Castle of the Counts is the highlight of the city, offering an audio-tour that is both funny and interesting! But besides that, it is worth just strolling around the city center and the canal. You’ll feel like you're taken back to medieval times. And don't forget to try the delicious Belgian beers and cuisine.

The best time to visit Ghent

Even though Ghent doesn’t get extremely cold (meaning below 0°C/32F), the best time to visit is probably during the spring and summer. This is when the city is most alive and the weather is warm. You’ll find many locals hanging around the canal and the public squares, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

One of our favorite times to visit Ghent is during Christmas time! In the month of December, the Christmas market takes up the whole neighborhood . It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many Belgians (including me!) as they gather around the stalls that are selling local food, mulled wine, and authentic crafts. Watch our video of our visit to Ghent during Christmas time.

Perfect for: History Buffs, Romance Seekers, Weekenders, Party Goers

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Also called the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is located in southern Croatia fronting the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea. Encircled with massive ancient city walls, it is a true heaven for history buffs. But aside from the walls, Dubrovnik has a lot more to offer. Catch the vibe of this charming European city by strolling around the quaint limestone streets, dine in panoramic restaurants, or have wine at one of the contemporary wine bars. If it's a sunny day, there are tons of beaches around to explore. A short walk through the Old Town brings you right along the Ploče Gate beach!

The best time to visit Dubrovnik

With a mild climate and an average of 250 sunny days a year, Dubrovnik can be explored at any time. However, the best time to visit is from April to September when it is warm enough to go swimming and sunbathing. All bars, restaurants, and activities are also open and running during this time. Expect larger crowds during the peak summer months!

Perfect for: History Buffs, Sun Seekers, Beach Lovers, Foodies, Backpackers

>>> Get your Dubrovnik Pocket Guide!

Edinburgh, Scotland (UK)

Visiting Edinburgh is like taking a journey back to medieval times. This Scottish city has a rich history that dates back before Roman times, which can be found all around the city. Explore the gorgeous Old Town, with the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress towering over the city center that was built on an impressive 700 million-year-old volcano. Or stroll through Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s main street filled with hidden gems and exquisite restaurants. And on a sunny day, put on your hiking shoes and soak in the views of the city from above. Calton Hill offers an amazing view of Edinburgh while Holyrood park and Arthur’s seat’s lookout expand over the city, the North Sea, and beyond!

The best time to visit Edinburgh

Edinburgh is not known for its beautiful weather. Instead, the climate is cool, moist, cloudy and rainy for most of the time of the year. The best chance of good weather is from June through August, with temperatures rising to 18°C (65F). This is also the busiest and liveliest time of the year, with festivals filling up the calendar in August. We visited at the end of July and absolutely loved it. The weather was variable, with a few warm and dry days, but also some cold and rainy days. So make sure to be prepared for all kinds of weather, even in summer!

Perfect for: History Buffs, Nature Lovers, Road Trippers, Outdoor Enthusiasts

Lonely Planet Pocket Edinburgh

Maastricht, the Netherlands

Although often overlooked by travelers, Maastricht is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. We rank it as the number one city to visit in the Netherlands as it is far less crowded and way cozier than jam-packed Amsterdam. The charm can be found in its cobbled old town, where you can find a wealth of history and medieval-era architecture. From the Sint Jans church to the Sint Servaas Bridge, Fort St. Peter, and the beautiful University of Maastricht. But what is also special about Maastricht is its location. Situated in the south of the Netherlands near the borders of both Belgium and Germany, the city’s culture and cuisine are much influenced by its nearby neighbors . And you will see that many day-visitors actually come from across these borders, creating a vibrant, diverse scene!

The best time to visit Maastricht

The best time to visit Maastricht is from June to September. This is when the chances of having warm, sunny days are the highest. Generally, the summer months are warm with temperatures rising frequently above 25°C (80F). However, the weather in this part of Europe is always variable! It can be hot and sunny on the first day and rainy and cold on the next. We completed part of our Master’s in Maastricht and absolutely loved it! We were pretty lucky with the weather that year as we enjoyed many warm, sunny days from April to June.

Perfect for: History Buffs, Foodies, Culture Seekers, Relaxation Seekers, Weekenders

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is another Portuguese city that should be on your bucket list! Filled with coastal views, historic architecture, idyllic public squares, lively bars, trendy shops, and delicious food, this capital city offers a little of everything! Visit the iconic Belém Tower while gazing at the Golden Gate look-a-like bridge named Ponte 25 de Abril. Explore the Alfama district, a vibrant and historic neighborhood with cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and one of the most beautiful sunset spots in the city, the ‘Miradouro da Graça’. Discover the local delicacies like pastéis de nata, bifana sandwiches, and bacalhau on a culinary tour or enjoy the nightlife at the Bairro Alto district. And if you finally had enough of the bustling city life, go on a day trip to nearby Sintra or Coimbra. Or go surfing at Caxias, one of the nearby beaches. Lisbon is the perfect European city to visit for travelers who love culture, good weather, delicious food, and a good night out, without spending too much money!

The best time to visit Lisbon

Even though Lisbon is an all-year-round destination, the best time to go is from March to October. While the summer is busy and hot, the spring and early fall are pleasantly warm, with cheaper hotel rates and fewer crowds. This time of the year you’ll still be able to squeeze in a few beach days!

Perfect for: Culture Seekers, Foodies, Backpackers, Budget Travelers, Sun Seekers, Party Goers, Surfers, and Beach Lovers

Lonely Planet Pocket Lisbon

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen's royal history, famous landmarks, cycle-friendly zones, and young, hip atmosphere that all make Copenhagen one of the best European cities to visit. Visit the little mermaid, marvel at Christiansborg Palace, walk harborside in Nyhavn, explore the mysterious Christiania, or try the local cuisine at one of the many indoor food markets. And the icing on the cake is that the city is so compact, you can easily explore all these attractions on foot or by bike. Don’t get discouraged by Copenhagen’s ranking as one of the most expensive cities in the world… because most of the sights we just mentioned are actually free!

The best time to visit Copenhagen

Visit Copenhagen during the summer months as there will be sunnier and less chilly/rainy days. The average temperature from June through August ranges between 8°C (46F) to 20°C (70F), which means you’ll still have to be prepared for colder weather! And when you finally find yourself on one of those 20°C (70F) days, you will see ALL the Danish people outside. Tourist facilities and transport services are operating fully during summer and this is when the landscape is also at its prettiest.

Perfect for: Culture Seekers, Backpackers, Foodies, Active Travelers, Solo Travelers

>> Get your Copenhagen Pocket Guide!

Bordeaux, France

Forget Paris, Marseille, or Lyon, Bordeaux is the French city you should visit! Bordeaux is a beautiful authentic city just like you imagined how France would be. From delicious cuisine to narrow streets, gothic-style architecture, and public green spaces. But what is most exciting (at least in my opinion) is that Bordeaux is the wine capital of the world. With top-notch wine labels and bars, a gorgeous wine museum, and a variety of wine-tasting tours to some of the most famous vineyards in the region, Bordeaux's wine is some of the best in the world. The top wine regions are Saint-Émillion, Saint-Julien, and Médoc. Located in southern France, Bordeaux enjoys a year-round pleasant climate. This is perfect as the ocean is within easy reach as well!

The best time to visit Bordeaux

The best time to visit Bordeaux is between May and November. This is when the weather is the most pleasant and vineyards are open and running. However, take into account that the grape harvest takes place from late August to early October. This is the most important time of the year for wineries, making it a busy and stressful time for wine-makers. As such, many vineyards don’t accept visitors. That being said, the city is very romantic and cozy in autumn and winter, especially when the Christmas markets arrive in the city.

Perfect for: Wine Lovers, Foodies, Culture Seekers, Sun Seekers, Romantic Getaways

>> Get your Bordeaux Pocket Guide!

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the most beloved city trip destinations in Europe. From the mountains to the beach, Gaudí to Picasso, and the historic to the modern, it is hard to not fall in love with this diverse city! And it is even harder once you meet its people and indulge yourself in its local culture. Barcelona has a wealth of tourist attractions, such as the renowned Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas, the Gothic Quarter, Park Guell, and Casa Battló. But aside from that, it is also home to a variety of beaches facing the Mediterranean Sea, a vibrant nightlife, and some of the most delicious cuisine. Tapas and sangría, anyone?

The best time to visit Barcelona

Barcelona enjoys a wonderful Meditteranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. This means you can visit Barcelona at any time of the year! The best time to visit is May to June, as the weather is pleasantly warm and the city holds many events. Once the actual summer comes around, the humidity and high temperatures kick in, making it the perfect time to go to the beach. However, bear in mind that there will always be tourist crowds. Barcelona is one of the most-visited cities in Europe.

Perfect for: First-time visitors to Europe, Art buffs, Foodies, Fashionista's, Party Goers, Sun Seekers, Beach Lovers, Culture Seekers

Lonely Planet Pocket Barcelona

Lucerne, Switzerland

Sitting beside Lake Lucerne in the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne is one of the most idyllic European cities to visit. Both the lake and the mountains are right at your fingertips, whether you want to explore the waters by kayak or conquer nearby Mount Pilatus. And if you want to be truly amazed, go on a day trip to the nearby Swiss Alps. Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station, and the Great Aletsch Glacier can all be explored on a day-trip from Lucerne! But besides its fantastic surrounding landscapes, there is also plenty to do in the city itself. From walking the colorful streets of the Old Town to admiring the medieval bridges and historic buildings. It is a very compact city that can be easily explored on foot!

The best time to visit Lucerne

Lucerne is an all-year-round destination, being a prime skiing location during the winter and a hub for hiking and sightseeing in the summer. Hence, it really depends on what you are looking for. From mid-June to mid-September, you can enjoy the best weather, with many of the surrounding peaks being snow-free. But also expect large crowds and some rainy days!

Perfect for: Adventure and Nature Seekers, History Buffs, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Road Trippers

>> Get your Switzerland guide!

Florence, Italy

As the capital of Tuscany, Florence is one of Italy’s most romantic cities. Most famous for its world-class art, Renaissance history, delicious food, and classic Italian culture, Florence is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic center is where most of its charm lies, with Medici palaces, the iconic Duomo, and bridges arching over the Arno River. Some of the most eminent art pieces in the world can also be found here: Michelangelo’s ‘ David’ and Boticelli’s ‘ Primavera’ to name a few. So forget about overcrowded Rome and Venice, and explore the walkable streets of Tuscany’s charming city!

The best time to visit Florence

While the summers are moderately dry, sunny, and hot, the winters are mildly cool and rainy. Hence, the best time to visit Florence is between May and September, when the warm weather holds out. This is also when the city is at its most romantic with open-air dining, art festivals, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Perfect for: Art and Culture Lovers, History Buffs, Romance Seekers, Foodies

Lonely Planet Pocket Florence & Tuscany (Regional Guide)

10 other amazing European cities to visit

Budapest, Hungary

Vienna, Austria

Dublin, Ireland

Stockholm, Sweden

Rome, Italy

Geneva, Switzerland

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Nice, France

Paris, France

Seville, Spain

>> Get your Europe Travel Guide

If you are looking for more travel inspiration than the European cities mentioned here, make sure to download our free 100 bucket list destinations before you head off on your adventure!

What is your favorite European city? Let us know in the comments below!

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10 cities that are perfect for your first trip to Europe

Europe is full of incredible cities (not to mention small towns and rural areas), so it can be hard to narrow down where you want to go, especially if it's your first time visiting the continent. Classic favorites like London and Paris still make for a great introduction to Europe, but sleeper hits like Vienna, Copenhagen and Istanbul can provide stunning and unusual experiences too.

The cities on this list all provide a good combination of history, architecture, art, culture, nature and regional food and are easy to navigate. They're all also connected by airlines, making it easy to fly from one to the other on points and miles . My main tip is to avoid cramming in too much on that first trip. You may only be able to hit one, two or three cities, but it will be a much better experience than squeezing in all 10. Trust me, you'll be back.

London, England

The capital of England is popular for a reason: Aside from being easy to navigate and having English as an official language, it's chock-full of must-see sites (Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Tower of London among them), world-class museums (the Tate Modern, the British Museum, and the National Gallery, to name a few) and bars and restaurants to please any palate.

Walking along the Thames River (not to mention taking a boat on it) is an experience every traveler should have. Many museums in London are free but if you plan on visiting more than two of the paid attractions, the London Pass may be worthwhile. And, of course, all the major hotel brands with loyalty programs have multiple options in the city, making London a great destination for points users .

• How to fly to London for free using points and miles
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• London hotel reviews: Hyatt's The Academy London , St. Ermin's Hotel , London Edition, Hyatt Regency London–The Churchill
• Best restaurants in London
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• All about Heathrow Airport

Paris, France

Just a hop, skip and a Eurostar train ride from London, Paris is a must-visit and it's also a great city in which to use points and miles . Sample its café culture, stroll the Champs-Élysées, bring a baguette and cheese to one of its many idyllic parks and explore its neighborhoods (like Montmartre and Le Marais) by foot or bike.

Gawk at attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame , Arc de Triomphe and Sacré Coeur. Take in museums like the Louvre, Musee d'Orsay, Musee de l'Orangerie and the Centre Pompidou, as well as lesser-known ones like the Louis Braille Museum and the Museum of Fashion and Textiles.

Eat your fill of French delights like croissants and other pastries at Poilâne, gourmet chocolate and candy from Patrick Rodger and Jacques Genin, Breton crepes at BREIZH Café and Michelin-starred food at the likes of Le Cinq, Sylvestre, Septime and Saturne.

Like London, all the major hotel brands are here and there are some great deals to be had, especially at IHG brand Holiday Inn, which has several nicer-than-usual locations. Or splurge on a hotel like the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme , because Paris knows how to do luxury.

• Maximizing points and miles to get to Paris
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• Paris hotel reviews: Hotel Banke , Hyatt's Hotel du Louvre , W Paris–Opera, InterContinental Paris Le Grand , Prince de Galles , Maison Astor Paris
• 15 things to do on your first trip to Paris
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• Paris Charles de Gaulle vs. Orly: Which airport should you fly into?

Barcelona, Spain

Although it's not Spain's capital, Barcelona offers a funkier experience than Madrid — but the masses have discovered it, making it one of the most over-touristed destinations in the world. Nevertheless, it's one of Europe's best cities for first-timers, thanks to its fanciful architecture, tantalizing tapas and boisterous beach and nightlife scene. Just beware of tourist traps, not-so-great restaurants and long lines, especially on weekends.

Be sure to check out native son Antoni Gaudí's modern architectural masterpieces, including Sagrada Familia ( book tickets in advance!), Parc Güell and Casa Battló, as well as the medieval masterpieces in the Gothic Quarter.

Stroll the bustling Las Ramblas, eat your way through Mercat de la Boqueria and relax on Sant Sebastià Beach before tapas bar-hopping and pintxos sampling. Save room for dinner in one of the city's many lauded restaurants like Fismuler, Disfrutar, and Tickets and try to hit up some late-night bars. Hotels bookable with points and miles vary, so do your homework.

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Amsterdam, The Netherlands

No, Amsterdam is not just a place to get stoned and gawk at prostitutes. Its charming canals, unique architecture, iconic art and design and tasty food (bitterbalen, stroopwafles, and Dutch fries, for starters) make it worth visiting .

Explore world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and the Stedelijk Museum; wander through the lush Vondelpark, walk or boat along the idyllic canals and sample jenever, the Dutch version of gin, with some sharp local gouda.

The city has taken steps to combat over-tourism , so be respectful . A great thing about Amsterdam is its access to the countryside and other Dutch cities — in Holland, nothing is too far away.

• 10 things to know before you go to Amsterdam
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• Amsterdam hotel reviews: InterContinental Amsterdam Amstel Hotel , Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam , The Apollo Hotel Amsterdam
• Where to eat in Amsterdam

Rome, Italy

It was hard to limit this list to one Italian city (Florence and Venice were also contenders) but Rome hits all the marks for first-timers: major landmarks, unique culture, easy access and navigability, and classic neighborhoods worth wandering by foot. With ancient ruins dating back more than 2,500 years, epic museums and some of the best pizza and pasta, Rome is a traveler's dream.

The city can be crowded, though, so plan ahead and book tickets for major attractions like the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel and Roman Forum in advance. As with all cities, be sure to obey local laws and customs, especially at busy sites like the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain as the city has recently been cracking down on tourists behaving badly.

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• Rome hotel reviews: The St. Regis Rome ,
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• The best times to visit Italy

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a diverse city that can engage all your senses — in a good way. With classic palaces, moving memorials and art-filled museums, the city has so much to offer and is easy to navigate on the U-Bahn, by bike or on foot. Visit the museums on Museum Island, reflect at the Holocaust Memorial, head up to the Reichstag's glass dome (be sure to book in advance), marvel at the city's stunning churches and take in the art at the East Side Gallery, the Berlin Wall's remaining piece that features paintings by more than 100 artists from around the world.

After a long day, reenergize with some shnitzel, eisbein, currywurst and doner kebab, washed down with plenty of cheap but delicious beer. Save your stamina for the city's incredible nightlife — it's known as Europe's clubbing capital. And next year Berlin will get a new airport .

Save your Hilton points for a stay at the Waldorf Astoria Berlin (56,000 to 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night).

• Berlin hotel reviews: Grand Hyatt Berlin , Hotel Indigo Berlin Alexanderplatz

Vienna, Austria

This charming city is a sleeper hit, displaying Old World European architecture and style alongside more modern design. Stroll Vienna 's grand boulevards, sip coffee in its magnificent coffeehouses and explore its many opulent palaces and museums. But save time to discover trendy neighborhoods like Leopoldstadt and Mariahilf, see the utterly unique art and architecture of Hundertwasser and even visit a beach along the Danube River.

The city is also an under-the-radar stop for families . It's home to the world's oldest amusement park, the Prater, and the world's oldest zoo. Visit the Naschmarkt for plenty of snacks and drinks, followed by a slice of Sacher torte, of course.

Getting to Vienna on points and miles is easy and there are plenty of hotels bookable with rewards as well. Save up your Bonvoy points for a night or two at the lavish Hotel Imperial .

• Austrian Airlines give Boston its first-ever Vienna service
• 5 tips for visiting Vienna's famous Christmas markets
• Vienna hotel reviews: Park Hyatt Vienna

Copenhagen, Denmark

Scandinavia has its own look and feel and Copenhagen is the ideal way for first-timers to sample Europe's north country. Design lovers, foodies and anyone who's into shopping will fall in love with the city. There's also no lack of castles, bustling squares, picturesque buildings and magnificent churches.

Be sure to put Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, the Opera House, the Black Diamond and at least one palace on your list, and consider leaving the city to go 20 miles north to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.

You may not be able to get a table at Noma, often rated the best restaurant in the world, but Copenhagen is full of other acclaimed restaurants pushing the envelope like Relae, Hija de Sanchez, and Amass, not to mention some of the best bakeries in the world.

• 10 of the most Instagrammable places in Copenhagen
• Copenhagen hotel review: Radisson Royal Copenhagen
• All about Amsterdam Airport Schipol

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul straddles Asia and Europe, bridging the two continents in a riot of colors, smells and sounds. It can feel overwhelming, but it's also at the top of many people's lists of their favorite cities. The European side of the Bosphorus River encompasses the Old City of Sultanahmet, complete with the iconic Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern and Grand Bazaar. The Asian side is more residential and has fewer tourist attractions, but it's worth exploring to see how locals live and to visit the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.

A ferry ride along the Bosphorus is an excellent way to see more of the city and nearby fishing villages. A traipse across the Galata Bridge, sampling a fish sandwich on the way, is a must. The city also recently got a new airport , making it the world's largest air terminal , and cruise ships are also stopping there again.

• Review: Turkish Airlines lounge at the new Istanbul airport
• Planning the perfect Turkey layover on your trip through IST
• Should you take kids to Istanbul?

Budapest, Hungary

Too often visitors keep to the western side of Europe but Eastern Europe is bursting with a life of its own. Budapest , sometimes called the Paris of the East, is one of its most beautiful cities — actually, it's two cities straddling the Danube, Buda and Pest , which are linked by the iconic Chain Bridge.

Take a dip in hot-spring-fed bathhouses on Margaret Island, stroll through Woodland Park, gawk at dozens of magnificent churches and spend time on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castle Hill, which is home to Buda Castle and various museums and monuments. Hotels are a bit more limited here, but there are still several brands represented where you can spend your reward points, often for less than hotels cost in other cities.

• 10 things you need to know before your first trip to Europe
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6 European cities where you can day trip to another country

Have you always wanted to pop over to another country for the day? Here are six cities where you can do just that.

One of the coolest things about traveling in Europe the close proximity of one country from another. Depending on which city you’re in, you might find yourself close enough to cross another country’s border for a day trip.

Here are six cities from where you can reach another country for the day.

1. Milan, Italy to Lugano, Switzerland

Just an hour from Milan on the high-speed train will have you in Switzerland’s Italian-speaking region. Take a cruise of the serene lake, peruse the fancy watch and jewelry stores on Via Nassa, take the funicular to the top of Monte San Salvatore for spectacular views and visit the Alprose Chocolate Museum to savor Swiss chocolate in its motherland. Remember: You’re in Switzerland so expect Switzerland prices.

View this post on Instagram 💗L U G A N O💗 #lugano #switzerland #lake #wonderfulcolors #wonderful_places #beautifuldestinations #vivoinunpostomeraviglioso #summer #summer2k18 #😍 A post shared by Francesca Errer (@francesca_errer) on Jul 6, 2018 at 2:10am PDT

2. Munich, Germany to Salzburg, Austria

When in the Bavarian capital , a train can take you to Austria’s fairytale-perfect Salzburg  in just 90 minutes. In addition to being the birthplace of Mozart and the backdrop for The Sound of Music , this alpine city boasts a UNESCO-protected Baroque old town. Here, walk the streets to see storefronts bedecked with the charming old-school medieval guild signs, take a funicular to Hohensalzburg Castle, visit the Augustiner Bräu monastery that brews its own beer and more.

View this post on Instagram Sunshine over Salzburg ☀️ where do you spend your day with such great weather ⁉️ 📷 by @traavelix #visitsalzburg #salzburg #salisburgo #salzburgo #visitaustria #feelaustria #discoveraustria #traveldiary #austriantime #wonderful_places #instacool #doyoutravel #bestcitybreaks #mytravelgram #worldtravelpics #citybreak #citytravel #bucketlist #earthgram #citylove #salisburgo #citybestpics #citybestpic #bestpicture #citylife #travel A post shared by Salzburg Tourism (@visitsalzburg) on Jul 5, 2018 at 5:00am PDT

3. Vienna, Austria to Bratislava, Slovakia

The Austrian and Slovakian capitals sit along the Danube, just a mere 34 miles apart from each other, so Bratislava is just a one-hour train ride or drive from Vienna . Head here for the day to stroll the city’s intriguing castle, Instagram a pic of the Blue Church, admire edgy street art and nosh on some Halusky, potato dumplings topped with cream sauce and bacon. Slovakia’s wines are starting to get more attention on a global level so make sure to sip a sweet puttonyo from the Tokaj region.

View this post on Instagram This view from the Old Town Hall Photo: @michaelatlapova #thisisbratislava #visitbratislava #bratislava #slovakia A post shared by @BRATISLAVA_ (@bratislava_) on Jun 2, 2018 at 10:30pm PDT

5. Costa del Sol, Spain to Tangier, Morocco

What’s most exciting is that this trip takes you not only to another country but to another continent. From Spain’s paradisiacal Costa del Sol, ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar to arrive in Tangier. Thanks to its strategic location, this Moroccan port city has an intriguing, yet complex history. See the Arab influences of the old medina and kasbah juxtaposed against the European Ville Nouvelle (New Town) which dates back to the 1930s. Head out of the city to see Cape Spartel, where the Mediterranean and the Atlantic meet as well as the legendary Caves of Hercules. Before heading back, ride a camel on the beach! Of all the Costa del Sol towns, we suggest staying in Málaga as it packs some solid cultural punch in addition to offering some fun in the sun. Note: You can also do a day trip to Tangier from Seville .

View this post on Instagram #Tangier and its enchanting #bluesky 😍 #VisitTangier #VisitMorocco #ExploreMorocco #Wanderlust #Igersmorocco #igmorocco Photo credits: @Magalignocchi A post shared by Visit Morocco (@visit_morocco_) on Dec 29, 2017 at 2:13am PST

6. Helsinki, Finland to Tallinn, Estonia

A ferry across the Baltic Sea will bring you from the White City of the North to the capital of Estoni a in just about two hours. Tallinn’s UNESCO-protected Old Town looks like it’s right out of a storybook, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and Saint Olaf’s churches are must-sees. The KGB Museum, located on the top floor of the Soviet-era Hotel Viru, where the KGB had set up shop during the occupation. Have lunch at Olde Hansa if you’d like a Medieval experience or if you’re gastronomically minded, opt for one of the New Nordic restaurants like Kaks Kokkam, Noa, Leib or Moon.

View this post on Instagram Finish the sentence “I love traveling because … “! 💭 Photo 📷by @kaupo.kalda #visittallinn #visitestonia #tallinn #travel #citybreak #europe #beautifuldestinations #oldtown A post shared by 🇪🇪Visit Tallinn (@visittallinn) on May 24, 2018 at 1:15pm PDT

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13 Super Charming European Cities Well Worth a Day Trip

Go ahead. Get out and explore more.

You'd have to have a heart of stone not to be moved by the little streets of Paris, the palaces of Vienna , or the twisting canals of Venice. After all, there's a reason these iconic cities are as timeless and as popular as they are. But Europe is more than just these well-known destinations. In fact, some of Europe's most beautiful and exciting cities are often also some of the continent's smallest or most unassuming.

"Europe is such a great place to visit to enjoy the varying cultures, food, and history," Sofia Markovich, a Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor specializing in European travel, tells T+L. "It is easy to get around Europe, but the key to taking advantage of the diversity is to pick a region and travel throughout that area." As Markovich suggests, it's a good idea to plot out your stay by region — think Western, Eastern, or Southern Europe. Markovich says this will "allow a traveler an opportunity to visit several countries on one trip," or at the very least, experience some of the continent's best cities in one go. To maximize your next European vacation's day trip potential, Markovich also suggests narrowing down your home base to a major city where public transportation is a mainstay. "Choosing larger cities as a hub provides the most flexibility and easy access to surrounding areas," she says. "For example, Munich is a great spot to stay in order to have easy access to Austria in addition to many must-see areas of Bavaria. Staying in a large hub opens the opportunity for many out-of-town tours and easy transportation options without having to spend countless hours traveling back and forth."

Indeed, Europe is incredibly easy to get around thanks to its various modes of transport, from bus to ferry, and of course, by hopping aboard its famed trains, which whizz you from one glamorous city to the next in mere hours. For example, while visiting London, visitors can make their way to the medieval city of Bruges via a three-hour ride with Eurostar. Similarly, Poland's Szczecin is a beloved waterfront city that's just a quick, two-hour train trip from Berlin. Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, isn't as popular a destination as Vienna, but it's an easy day trip from the famous Austrian metropolis (only an hour away by train) and is a perfect home base for wine-tasting expeditions in the surrounding countryside.

All of the European detours listed here are easy, convenient trips, with no private drivers or even car rentals necessary. But, perhaps more importantly, all of the cities included — few of which get the attention they deserve — offer intrepid travelers the chance to have a unique, under-the-radar European experience. Below, find 13 spectacular European second cities that are absolutely worth the day trip during your stay.

Munich to Salzburg, Austria

Perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Mozart (as well as the setting for "The Sound of Music"), Salzburg lies just on the border with Germany. A fully preserved embodiment of Baroque architecture, few modern buildings have been allowed a place in the inner city, meaning today it looks almost identical to how it did 400 years ago.

The Route: The Munich-to-Salzburg route is a quick cross-border train journey : prices begin at $27 each way, and it'll take you just under two hours to arrive. If you opt for the bus (go for ​Flixbus ) it’ll cost $13 each way with a journey time of two hours.

Where to Stay: If you're in Salzburg, you want historical luxury, and if you want historical luxury, you want ​Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron . The hotel, which served as the filming location for the von Trapp family residence in "The Sound of Music," is set inside a stunning 18th-century palace with a beautiful interior and remarkable surroundings.

Where to Eat: It's no palace, sure, but ​S'Kloane Brauhaus serves classic, rustic Austrian cuisine (think wiener schnitzel and venison stew) and home-brewed beer in a warm, traditionally decorated environment.

What to Do: Take a ​ "Sound of Music" tour , or visit the ​birthplace of Mozart , which is now a museum. Or just head down to the Alter Market and dedicate your day to eating as much Austrian street food as you can.

Berlin to Szczecin, Poland

As the country's seventh-largest city, Szczecin often finds itself in the shadow of some of Poland's more popular destinations, such as Warsaw or Kraków. Nonetheless, this port city (located just on the Poland-Germany border) is as well loved by German tourists as it is by locals, chiefly for its gorgeous riverfront and locally made beer and vodka.

The Route: Luckily, Szczecin is as easy to get to as it is hard to spell. You can catch a bus from Berlin's central bus station to central Szczecin for about $17 one way, and you'll arrive in just over two hours.

Where to Stay: The Park Hotel is a little slice of luxury situated right in the middle of Szczecin's Old Town, only a short distance away from pretty much everything in the city worth seeing — including that aforementioned riverfront.

Where to Eat: You won't have to go far for this one: the Park Hotel's restaurant is one of the highest-rated in the city and offers up a range of Polish and international dishes.

What to Do: The Szczecin Philharmonic hosts a number of events throughout the year, and the striking building itself is a wonderful example of Poland's architectural eccentricity.

Paris to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

One of Europe's smallest capital cities (in one of Europe's smallest countries), Luxembourg City is known as the "Gibraltar of the North" for its vast series of medieval fortifications.

The Route: The high-speed train will get you there from Paris in just two hours, with one-way fares starting at $34.

Where to Stay: Effortlessly stylish yet also undeniably cozy, the Hotel Parc Beaux Arts is made up of rooms that feel like they've been lifted straight out of a charming, local cottage and is located near the Palais Grand Ducal in Luxembourg's historical city center.

Where to Eat: Take advantage of the country's unique gastronomic culture with traditional Luxembourgian fare (think beer-braised pig's trotters and sauerkraut) at Mousel's Cantine — and don't forget to try the local beer.

What to Do: The Bock casemates are a series of tunnels, running beneath the ruins of the old city fortifications, that leads out to large, cliff-side openings that offer not only some of the best panoramic views in Luxembourg but also a fascinating look into the city's history.

Venice to Pula, Croatia

An ancient city full of Roman ruins, Pula is still flourishing thanks to the same industries that put it on the map over 2,000 years ago: winemaking, fishing and leisure.

The Route: Many ferries to Pula are seasonal, and only run from April to October. (Note: You can find the odd ferry over the winter, but they are very few and far between, so don't count on being able to find a ride.) During those months, Venezia Ferries or Adriatic Lines will take you across the Adriatic in just over three hours, at $170 round-trip.

Where to Stay: Scaletta provides a touch of fun to a stay at Pula. Its colorful rooms and central location make it a perfect place to rest during your quick stay.

Where to Eat: The charming Restaurant Oaza serves up locally sourced seafood (a specialty in Pula) and traditional Croatian dishes.

What to Do: History buffs, take note: the city's many Roman ruins are a must-visit, especially the massive Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus, and Triumphal Arch. Visitors should also head down to the waterfront paths that lead out of town to try to find some of the many dinosaur footprints that are still preserved in the rocks today.

London to Bruges, Belgium

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

Bruges is a classic medieval city, which comes lined with twisting cobblestone streets, crisscrossed by canals, and towered over by the iconic Belfry of Bruges. One of Europe's prettiest secrets, the city is the perfect short getaway from the hustle and bustle of London.

The Route: The 3.5-hour Eurostar trip starts at about $140 for a one-way ticket. You’ll need to change trains in Brussels.

Where to Stay: Don't be put off by the strange name — the very reasonably priced Hotel Bla Bla in the city center is one of the coolest, friendliest hotels in Bruges.

Where to Eat: Check out Soup , a small restaurant near Bruges' Market Square that serves beer, panini, and, of course, soup. Cap off the day with a Belgian waffle at the nearby Chez Albert .

What to Do: Climb the Belfry, of course. It's the city's most famous sight, and the views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking.

Zurich to Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, with its bizarre history, powerful monarchy, and tiny population, might be one of the most intriguing countries in Europe, and its Lilliputian capital city (population: 5,700) is an underrated gem for alpine travelers.

The Route: Getting from Zurich to Vaduz takes about 90 minutes. You'll need to catch a train from Zurich Hauptbahnhof to Sargans, just on the border. From there, it’s a short bus ride to Vaduz. Expect to pay around $30-$40 for the whole trip.

Where to Stay: Liechtenstein is one of the few countries left in the world that still takes its monarchy very seriously, so you might as well live like royalty yourself while visiting. And the 29 beautifully appointed rooms and suites at the luxurious, bucolic Parkhotel Sonnenhof are certainly fit for a king.

Where to Eat: You won’t have a better meal in Vaduz than at the Parkhotel Sonnehof's elegant, Michelin-starred Restaurant Marée .

What to Do: Hike out of town and take in the mountain views on the Grüschaweg Trail , or stop in on the personal cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein for a wine and whiskey tasting .

Bern, Switzerland to Lausanne, Switzerland

Set on the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne is one of Switzerland's most scenic cities. The surrounding Vaud region is famous for its wines, cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, and, as the largest French-speaking region in Switzerland, provides a French-Swiss cultural experience that nicely complements a visit to the more Germanic-leaning city of Bern.

The Route: Trains run from the center of Bern straight into Lausanne for around $20 each way, and the journey takes about an hour.

Where to Stay: The Hôtel du Port is located in Lausanne's vibrant marina and has rooms overlooking Lake Geneva.

Where to Eat: Two Michelin stars, a legendary French chef, and some of the finest lake views in town: Anne-Sophie Pic au Beau-Rivage Palace is where you want to be.

What to Do: Board La Suisse , an authentic turn-of-the-century paddle steamer, for lunch and a tour of the lake.

Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia

The wonderful thing about Vienna is just how close it is to so many of Europe's best cities — Prague, Budapest, and Munich being just a few — but Bratislava might well be Vienna's most exciting and convenient neighbor. The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is the cultural heart of one of the world's most underrated countries.

The Route: You can get to Bratislava from Vienna in an hour on the train. The cost? A whopping $12.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Michalská Brána 404 in the city's historic center, has an inconspicuous, traditional exterior, but is thoroughly modern on the inside. The city's most popular bars and clubs are only seconds away, as is the magnificent Bratislava Castle.

Where to Eat: Modra Hviezda does atmospheric Central European dining at a surprisingly low cost and is frequently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the city. Make sure to try something off of their list of traditional Slovak specialties.

What to Do: It's worth heading out of the city to take a tour of the surrounding vineyards and wineries. (Slovakia, ever the underdog, has a tremendously underrated winemaking industry). And if wine isn't your thing, the Slovaks aren't exactly strangers to beer-making either.

Bilbao, Spain to Biarritz, France

Don't let the Pyrenees get in your way. Travelers staying near the Spanish-French border should take the chance to hop over to the country next door. Biarritz, on the Bay of Biscay, is a French surfing town marked by thriving nightlife and the sort of glitz and glamour you'd normally be hard-pressed to find outside of the French Riviera.

The Route: Local bus companies will sell you a ticket from Bilbao, Spain for anywhere between $9-$20 each way. The trip should take just under three hours.

Where to Stay: You're never going to want to be too far away from the seaside while you're in Biarritz, so book a room at the Hotel l'Ocean, which offers affordable luxury in the city center, only seconds away from the beach.

Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a fantastic post-surf meal at Bistro Toqué Anglet 503 which offers a seafood-forward menu and lighter fare.

What to Do: Surf, of course. Biarritz is as good a surfing spot as anywhere else in France or Spain, and the city has a prominent surf culture. If you're a rookie, don't panic — the École de Surf Hastea offers lessons and camps throughout the year for surfers at any level.

Amsterdam to Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is obscure enough to enjoy a relaxed, relatively quiet atmosphere, but also entertaining enough — thanks largely to its university and thriving student scene — to keep any errant partiers from Amsterdam happy.

The Route: Traveling via train will take only slightly over three hours and costs about $50-$100 each way. Buses also run to Ghent at around $15-$40 for a single ticket, and the journey will take 2.5 hours.

Where to Stay: Spend a night or two in the Boatel , a floating hotel in a converted riverboat.

Where to Eat: The Belgians do few things better than steak and frites, and Gillis probably does it best of all.

What to Do: If you're taking a break from the mile-a-minute Amsterdam nightlife, check out the Museum of Fine Arts to soak up a bit of medieval, Renaissance, and modern culture. Otherwise, head down to Korenmarkt for some of Ghent's more central bars and pubs, or out towards Blandijnberg for the city's student nightlife.

Helsinki, Finland to Tallinn, Estonia

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Tallinn, Estonia's capital, lies on the southern shores of the Gulf of Finland. Although less well known than its northern counterparts, Tallinn is often regarded as one of the most cultured, developed, and technologically advanced cities in Europe. Perhaps not the best destination if you're trying to get away from Finland’s biting cold, Tallinn is certainly a must-visit for lovers of the northern reaches of the continent.

The Route: Getting there from Helsinki will require a short trip on a ferry; the ​Viking Line or Eckerö Lines tend to have the cheapest tickets (from $20-$30 one-way), and the crossing will take about two hours.

Where to Stay: Set in an elegant, Soviet-era building, ​ My City Hotel is one of Tallinn's higher-end establishments, but its sumptuous interior and unrivaled location in the city's Old Town will more than justify the slightly higher price tag.

Where to Eat: ​ Kohvik Moon is only a short distance from the Old Town and serves high-end, modern Russian cuisine at incredibly affordable prices.

What to Do: Tallinn has a long history of producing alcoholic beverages — from beers and vodka to classic Estonian liqueurs. Explore the city’s spirited traditions during a private ​tasting tour .

Tangier, Morocco to Tarifa, Spain

Okay, so Tangier isn't quite Europe, but it's rather close — and how often do you get to go on a quick jaunt over to the continent next door? Tarifa, in the province of Cádiz, near the Strait of Gibraltar, lays claim to some of Spain's prettiest beaches and is one of the best spots for wind sports in the country.

The Route: You'll need to get the ferry across, of course. ​ ​FRS runs a few sailings a day from Tangier Ville to Tarifa. The crossing takes an hour and will set you back around $80 for a round-trip.

Where to Stay: ​Koala Tarifa is a guesthouse located in the city’s historic center that offers five apartments in a 300-year-old, perfectly preserved building.

Where to Eat: Travelers and locals go to ​ ​Vaca Loca , a small, friendly, and typically Spanish restaurant known for serving steak and grilled meats in a beautiful, traditional setting.

What to Do: Try out kitesurfing (or other wind sports) down at the beach. ​ ​KitePassion Tarifa offers private lessons for $65 per hour.

Lisbon to Cáceres, Spain

Cáceres is a mish-mash of cultures: the city was founded by the Romans, yet it’s dotted with medieval streets and Renaissance palaces and surrounded by Moorish city walls. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the whole town itself is not only foodie heaven — it was named the 2015 gastronomy capital of Spain by the Spanish Hospitality Federation — but is also just far enough out of the way to remain relatively tourist-free.

The Route: Since the rail route was shut down, getting to Cáceres from Lisbon takes a while — the bus journey is a five-hour trip. Nonetheless, it'll cost around $30 with ​GoEuro and will take you through some of the most stunning countryside in Iberia.

Where to Stay: The ​ ​Hotel Parador , which is part of that UNESCO Heritage Old Town, feels more like a palace than a hotel, which probably comes from the fact that it actually is one.

Where to Eat: Cuisine is what Cáceres does best, and ​ ​Restaurant Javier Martin offers up a sterling tasting menu from one of the freshest and most exciting new chefs in town.

What to Do: Take a walk around the Old Town. In addition to being unspeakably beautiful, the area is home to market stalls and boutique shops selling all the sweets, wines, liqueurs, and street food a traveler could ever want.

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30 Under-The-Radar European Cities You Simply Have To Visit

Posted: October 27, 2023 | Last updated: October 27, 2023

Best European cities to visit

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bucharest, Romania

Bustling beer halls, hip coffee shops, peaceful parks, graceful Art Nouveau villas, old orthodox churches and mammoth communist-era structures, there's a lot to see in this Eastern European city. Highlights in Bucharest include visiting the colossal Palace of Parliament (constructed by former dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu), watching a performance in the gorgeous Romanian Athenaeum and relaxing in the pretty Cişmigiu Gardens. 

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

The capital of a little nation often overlooked by travelers, Luxembourg City has a fairy-tale feel about it with a grand palace overlooking quaint, cobbled streets. Surrounded by forest-clad valleys and vineyards, it's an ideal destination for gourmands – there's an impressive number of restaurants featured in the Michelin Guide, eight of which have received at least one star.

Read more about Luxembourg here

Riga, Latvia

With an UNESCO-listed medieval old town, regenerated riverside and a restaurant scene offering everything from modern new Nordic to traditional cookery, there's a lot to love about the Latvian capital. It's best to get a sense of its complex history through the eclectic mix of medieval, Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings in the handsome city centre, then head up to the spire of St Peter's Church to take in the maze of terracotta roofs from above.

Read our full guide to Riga here

Belgrade, Serbia

One of Europe's most energetic capitals, Belgrade has plenty of buzz about it. With cool clubs (its summer barge parties along the Danube and Sava rivers are legendary), eclectic music scene, creative community and clutch of designer hotels, Belgrade is becoming quite the hip destination. Add to that the city's handsome old town, ancient citadel and regenerated riverside districts, it's a wonder this Danube River city isn't on more travelers' must-visit list.

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Vienna, Austria

It's renowned for art and culture but Vienna is all too often edged out by schmaltzy Salzburg. Those that bypass Vienna do so mistakenly. The riches of the Kunsthistorisches Museum with its Rembrandts, Vermeers and Rubens are worth planning a visit around alone. Then there's the prestigious Vienna State Opera , magnificent St Stephen's Cathedral , splendid Baroque palaces and the array of beautiful Art Nouveau coffee houses. In winter its pretty squares are usually flooded with festive markets.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius might be small but when it comes to attractions, this former European Capital of Culture is a big hitter. It boasts the largest medieval old town in central and eastern Europe with ample parks, squares, historic churches, bars, cafés and restaurants to amuse you. Walking up Castle Hill to Gediminas' Tower , the city's best-known landmark, then meandering through the winding lanes below and watching the city go by in the bustling Cathedral Square is one of the best ways to spend a perfect day in the Lithuanian capital.

Discover more about Vilnius with our guide

Sofia, Bulgaria

With plenty of museums, galleries and a lively nightlife, it's surprising that Sofia isn't on more city break hot lists. Dominated by the vast, domed St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral , Bulgaria's capital is stunning and best explored on foot to take in the magnificent buildings, from the National Theatre to former mineral baths. There are plenty of green spaces to wander around as well, like Borisova Gradina , the city's oldest park.

Take a look at the world's most beautiful cathedrals

Podgorica, Montenegro

Podgorica is another diminutive city that's unlikely to bowl you over with its beauty, but the Adriatic nation's capital is worthy of a stop en route to blissful beaches, wineries and mountains. Built around the confluence of the Ribnica and Morača rivers, Podgorica has striking bridges, pretty parks and some remainders of its Ottoman-era old town, such as the 17th-century Clock Tower. Petrović Castle, set within a lovely park in the charming Kruševac area, houses the city’s Centre for Modern Arts.

Valletta, Malta

The sun-drenched Mediterranean archipelago might be best known for its beaches, but the ancient capital is equally alluring and perfectly proportioned for a weekend break. There are lavish palazzos and centuries-old churches, such as the awe-inspiring St John's Co-Cathedral (which contains original paintings by Caravaggio). The formidable Grand Harbour is a highlight – the Upper Barrakka Gardens are great for panoramic views over this former European Capital of Culture.

Read our guide to Valletta here

Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Straight out of the pages of a fairy-tale book, little Liechtenstein is one of Europe's least-visited countries. The German speaking principality sits between Switzerland and Austria, and its capital Vaduz is surrounded by some seriously majestic alpine scenery. Views aside, its best-known landmark is the 12th-century Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the Prince of Lichtenstein.

Take a look at stunning images of Europe's most adorable small towns

Ankara, Turkey

Declared the Turkish capital after the fall of the Ottoman Empire in 1923, cosmopolitan Ankara typically loses out to package holiday destinations or alluring Istanbul. But the city has a fascinating history beyond its status as the capital and its mix of modern and historical architecture is very telling of its past. Ankara Castle, Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and Anıtkabir – the mausoleum of the first president of the Turkish Republic, Ataturk – are among the best historic attractions, while the sprawling Gençlik Park has an amusement park, two miniature trains and over 40 kiosks selling all manner of wares.

Bern, Switzerland

With its well-preserved medieval old town, snow-covered Alpine backdrop and the pretty River Aare, Bern is a lovely city. The laid-back vibe means it doesn't feel like a bustling capital – and all the better for it. The arcaded streets of its UNESCO-listed historic area are perfect for pottering, with plenty of small shops and cafés. Top attractions include the Zytglogge (clocktower), Gothic Bern Minster , Museum of Fine Arts , Einstein House and the Einstein Museum .

City of San Marino, San Marino

The capital city of Europe's least-visited country (and third-smallest state) sits perched on the slopes of Mount Titano and commands amazing views of the Appenines. The car-free medieval center of Città, as it's commonly known, has ancient arches, ramparts and palazzi to explore. It might be small but, as one of the world's oldest republics, it's steeped in character and history.

These are the world's most beautiful medieval cities

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Most visitors arriving in Ljubljana pass through quickly en route to Lake Bled and the Julian Alps. Big mistake – the city has one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe, a vibrant festival scene, cutting-edge art galleries and sophisticated restaurants. The traffic-free historic center is a delight to explore with its mix of Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture. The hilltop castle offers excellent views while the National Museum of Slovenia houses some of the country's most prized and ancient treasures.

Oslo, Norway

Often shunned in favor of Arctic cruises and quaint Bergen further up the coast, Oslo has slowly been raising its profile. With a compact and walkable historic center, leafy green spaces and cutting-edge modern architecture, there's lots to love about this Nordic capital. Some of the top things to do here include walking up the roof of the ultra-modern Oslo Opera House and checking out the nearby Deichman Library , plus kayaking down the Oslofjord or exploring the islands and enjoying the city's bar scene.

Read more about Oslo in our guide

Brussels, Belgium

The political center of Europe, there's much more to Brussels than just the seat of the European Parliament and home to many other EU institutions. It's packed with museums and some of Europe's best architecture. The imposing Grand Place is a good way to start exploring the city and its quaint charm. The Musée Fin-de-Siècle is great for art lovers, while the Belgian Chocolate Village , an enormous space dedicated entirely to chocolate, is a must for those with a sweet tooth.

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Founded by the Ottomans in the 15th century, Bosnia and Herzegovina's beautiful capital retains a lot of its Turkish heritage, especially in its atmospheric old bazaar and historic center Baščaršija. Known as the Jerusalem of Europe because of its religious diversity, with a Catholic church, synagogue and mosque sitting side by side, this is a place to saunter from cafés to its souk-like stalls. The Tunnel of Hope museum just outside the city center is an excellent place to learn what life was like during the 1992-96 siege, following the declaration of independence from Yugoslavia.

Check out our guide to Sarajevo

Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK

There's a great energy about this proud city in Northern Ireland that is all too often overlooked. However, Belfast has its fair share of friendly pubs, traditional live music venues and world-class attractions, such as the Titanic Belfast , Ulster Museum and The MAC culture center . St George's Market is a must-visit for sampling Northern Irish produce. Time to spare? The magnificent Mountains of Mourne and the Giant’s Causeway are a short drive away.

Discover the UK's most stunning natural wonders

Warsaw, Poland

Quaint Kraków might steal the limelight, but those in the know go to Poland's capital Warsaw. Heavily bombed during the Second World War, the painstakingly rebuilt medieval old town (now an UNESCO World Heritage site) is a remarkable feat and a wonderful place to explore. Another noteworthy landmark is the striking Monument to the Warsaw Uprising – the painful history behind it is well-documented at the excellent Warsaw Rising Museum . It also has elegant parks, most notably the Royal Łazienki Park with its Neoclassical palace.

Yerevan, Armenia

The capital of Armenia is one of Europe's least-known cities and all the more intriguing for it. Its skyline is dominated by Mount Ararat, the symbol of Armenia. Visitors can climb to the top of The Cascade stairway for spectacular city and mountain views or meander through the narrow lanes of the old quarter before seeking out somewhere to try khoravats (traditional barbecued meat). A harrowing but important visit is The Armenian Genocide Museum and its moving memorial.

Tbilisi, Georgia

It might not have entirely escaped the eye of tourists but it's fair to say the capital of this small Caucasus nation isn't one of Europe's big hitters. Those who do visit congregate in the delightful old quarter where most of Tbilisi's historical sights (including Narikala Fortress ), cafés, bars, museums and charming streets are to be found. Incredible food and wines are another huge reason to seek out this city. Those looking to relax should check out the city's traditional hot sulfur bathhouses.

Zagreb, Croatia

There's no doubt Dubrovnik overshadows the rest of the country so those seeking a quieter escape should look towards Croatia's inland capital. Located along the Sava River and framed by Mount Medvednica, Zagreb might not have beaches, but it does have all the pillars of a great city break: a charming cobbled old town, wonderful food and a fantastic art scene. Once its most famous sights – namely the twin-spired Zagreb Cathedral and colorful St Mark's Church – are ticked off the list, there's a maze of cute backstreets to explore.

Andorra la Vella, Andorra

Sitting at 3,356 feet (1,023m) above sea level, this is the highest capital city in Europe – and one of the smallest. Wedged between France and Spain, mountainous Andorra is mostly known for its ski resorts, but Andorra la Vella is worth a visit for different reasons. There are some great boutiques, reputable restaurants and well-preserved Romanesque architecture. One of the city's most significant buildings is 16th-century Casa de la Vall , which was the seat of the Parliament of Andorra from 1702 to 2011.

Skopje, North Macedonia

The cafés, mosques and stall-lined, winding streets of Stara Čaršija (Skopje's old hillside bazaar) are the best place to soak in the North Macedonian capital's history and culture. Most of the city's Ottoman- and Byzantine-era sights sit across the 15th-century Kameni Most bridge, including traditional bathhouses and Fortress Kale . From its ramparts, a stunning view opens up over the old town and across the Vardar river to the city’s modern buildings.

Take a look at Europe's most beautiful castles

Nicosia, Cyprus

Cyprus is known more for beach holidays than sophisticated city breaks but exploring its split capital (the only divided capital in the world) is a real insight into ancient and modern Cypriot culture. The southern half of the city (known as south Nicosia among locals, Nicosia in English and Lefkosia in Greek), is the capital of the republic while the northern half, known as Lefkoşa, is Turkish-occupied. Top spots include the old quarter of Laiki Geitonia, the Cyprus Museum with its archaeological treasures and charming cafés serving traditional pastries.

Chişinău, Moldova

A blend of brutalist Soviet buildings and modern high-rises, Chişinău might lack the architectural riches of some European capitals but it has charms of its own. The city is surprisingly leafy with lovely parks and a clutch of interesting museums. Some pre-Second World War buildings remain, including a 19th-century orthodox cathedral with beautiful frescoes. The cathedral square is a lovely place to wander around the open-air flower market, bars and restaurants, and sample some of the famed Moldovan wine.

Tirana, Albania

One of the last European countries to shake off communism, Albania's capital has a certain charm with wide avenues and brightly colored buildings. The Albanian National Museum and the National Gallery of Arts are both well worth a visit, as is the Et'hem Bey Mosque, one of Tirana's last remaining examples of Ottoman architecture.

Helsinki, Finland

Stockholm and Copenhagen tend to overshadow Helsinki when it comes to Nordic city breaks, but this cool capital has plenty to offer. Great museums, striking buildings (like Finlandia Hall overlooking Töölönlahti Bay and Sibelius Monument), cool boutiques and hip designer hotels make Finland's capital a more-than-worthy contender. There's a pretty harborside area, the UNESCO-listed island fortress of Suomenlinna , a fantastic food scene and a plethora of saunas too.

Tallinn, Estonia

With its 13th-century walled old town – all cobblestone streets, quaint courtyards, medieval spires and pastel merchants' houses – and pretty position on the Baltic Sea, Tallinn is a serious looker. It's garnered a reputation as a place for cheap beer and late-night bars but there's far more to it. The hip Kalamaja district is excellent for restaurants, cool shops and the brilliant maritime museum Seaplane Harbour .

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Beat the heat: The ‘cool’ European destinations to visit in summer 2024

Here are the temperate alternatives to european hotspots that keep it cool – even in peak season, article bookmarked.

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Shade seekers can rejoice, holiday travel trends are changing and tan-refreshing, sunbed-stewing summer getaways are on the decline.

In light of the ongoing climate crisis , Brits – habitually inclined to boil abroad – are redirecting their wanderlust to European shores where they won’t be a prisoner to a hotel room’s air-conditioning or sweat over the midday UV index.

The shift to more moderate climates comes as no surprise. A furnace of Mediterranean holiday heavyweights, from Rhodes to Gran Canaria , were ablaze with wildfires during peak travel season 2023, and temperatures are continuing to break record highs year on year.

Now’s the time to swap searing Andalusia in mainland Spain for the cooler Canaries , trade Portugal ’s Algarve for Poland ’s Baltic coast, and replace big-hitting Greek islands with German variations.

With chasing scorching sun on the backburner, here are the destinations bringing a breeze to summer holidays from wind-whipped islands to northern Europe’s fine coastline.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The Spanish islands with sun and volcanic peaks that you should make your next holiday destination
• Greece travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go
• The best things to do in Valencia, from beach hopping to exploring by bike

Ostend, Belgium

• Average high in August: 21C
• Average low in August: 15C

Though best known for its chocolate, beer and the hub of EU democracy that is Brussels , it would be foolish to turn your nose up at Belgium ’s beach resorts. Let Flanders’s largest, Ostend , sweep you away to its golden sands this summer for mornings spent kitesurfing and afternoons filled with fresh oysters on the Albert I Promenade – all without the need to retreat from the heat.

Oslo, Norway

• Average low in August: 13C

The Norwegian capital is a tangle of hip districts – specifically buzzy Grünerløkka – boutique stores and al fresco dining spots fringed with by thick Marka forest (where you can go for active pursuits, including zip lining and mountain biking). Slick museums on the Oslo Pass, such as the Munch Museum, meet the culture criteria for a city break while taking a dip in seawater pools and drying off in Nordic saunas nails the R&R element of a standard summer holiday.

La Gomera, Canary Islands

• Average high in August: 28C
• Average low in August: 21C

While mainland Spain sizzles, an Atlantic onshore breeze blows through the Canary Islands , blessing balmy year-round La Gomera with inviting 20C days for holidaymakers to indulge in hiking, black-sand bathing and foodie feasts of melon lobster and marmalade rabbit. The bearable heat doesn’t sacrifice sunshine, with around nine hours of vitamin D on offer in August.

Tartu, Estonia

• Average low in August: 11C

Inevitably laden with sweaty vista climbs, winding refreshment queues and daily step tallies in the thousands, comfort is key on a city break, and the 2024 Capital of Culture , Tartu has just the climate for exploring Estonia . There is an elegant Town Hall Square primed for mass kissing events (yes, really), the sleek Estonian National Museum, and timber barges on the Emajõgi River for a sailor’s view of the peaceful landscape.

Sopot, Poland

• Average high in August: 22C
• Average low in August: 12C

Seafront Sopot, in the Tricity region of the “Baltic Riviera”, is an affordable alternative to the beloved big names further south  and  at its warmest come August. A short train ride from all the history of Gdansk , 4km of tempting beaches, Europe ’s longest wooden pier and stylish health spas dot the fairy tale-esque facades and locals hail Sopot for its beachfront nightlife scene and, of course, decadent waffles.

Sylt, Germany

• Average high in August: 20C
• Average low in August: 16C

A magnet for the German elite, the North Frisian Islands’ mild microclimate, pinstriped strandkorbs (hooded wicker seats wide enough for two) and pristine pale sands understandably attract travellers to Sylt’s west coast. A Michelin-rosette gastronomy scene, thatched cottages and lighthouse-scattered peninsulas make this balmy under-the-radar beach break one to add to your list.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia ’s most famous attraction sparkles under the summer sun and Lake Bled’s inviting turquoise glacial waters will help you keep your cool on climbs up to the medieval Bled Castle and romantic rows around the fantasy island. Where the legendary lakes of Garda and Como sweat with crowds in Italy , Bled’s slice of the Julian Alps, though inevitably busy, offers forest trails suited for secluded alpine hikes.

Machico, Madeira

• Average high in August: 26C

Leave the scorching Algarve for a more temperate Atlantic alternative on Portugal ’s Madeira archipelago. Sandwiched between mountains, far east Machico has a wave-battered artificial beach with golden grains imported from Africa , well-groomed gardens and a vision of terracotta roofs dotting its landscape. 

Pori, Finland

On Finland ’s west coast, the city of Pori is a centre for jazz music, Finnish street eats (including  porilainen,  an elevated sausage sandwich), and, star of Scandinavia, Yyteri Beach: 6km of white sand geared for windsurfing, bird watching, beach volleyball and barbecues. With the Kokemäenjoki River and Bothnian Sea National Park, this diverse destination has mastered sub-30C summer culture.

Haarlem, Netherlands

• Average high in August: 19C

Head to Haarlem for tulips, vinyls, hidden  hofje  courtyards and a fair share of canals. Amsterdam ’s less-crowded neighbour serves a slice of Dutch cool without the sweaty shoulder brushes with strangers. It has a popular shopping scene as well as a brewing culture backdating to the 14th century, and active pursuits can be found in the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. 

Skagen, Denmark

On Denmark ’s northeastern peninsula, the port town of Skagen has art museums and fine dining to rival the country’s effortlessly cool capital Copenhagen . Whisps of cloud paint the skies and wild nature patrols the pale grains of the Grenen sandbar that straddles the Baltic and North Sea. Better still, August’s T-shirt and light-layers weather is ideal for exploring this stretch of the Rabjerg Mile – a migrating coastal sand dune.

Hoping for a balmy UK summer? Here are the best secret UK beaches to visit for some peace and quiet

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5 Popular European Cities Will Now Charge You Extra to Visit

By Alison Blanc

Post-pandemic, several European cities have felt rising pressures to filter the influx of visitors. In order to combat mass tourism, as well as benefit their various economies and the wellbeing of their citizens, these five hotspot destinations have opted to implement an entry tax.

Venice, Italy

Venice has a reputation as the city made for lovers, where legend has it that love endures as long as you set foot within the city’s bounds. Largely known for its canals and unique architecture , Venice has announced that it will introduce an entrance tax for daily visitors. (This will vary depending on the time of year and the month.) For the moment, this tax is just in its test phase, and takes effect during May, June, and July 2024. Visitors are required to pay €5 to enter the city between 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. so you might want to factor that into your budget.

View of the Vetrai Canal in Murano, a district of Venice, Italy.

Barcelona, Spain

Nestled in the north of Spain, the city of Barcelona is invaded by tourists every summer, when its Mediterranean beaches get particularly crowded and degrade the city’s cleanliness. As of April 2024, the Spanish city has decided to introduce a tax aimed at reducing the number of tourists each year. Visitors will pay a city surcharge of €3.25 per night in addition to the regional tax. The total amount of the tax varies according to the type of accommodation, with five-star hotels charging up to €6.75 per night in total.

Barcelona's Victory Arch is a popular tourist attraction—for good reason.

Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Santiago de Compostela’s Catholic Cathedral, amongst other architectural wonders, makes it a must-see destination for baroque architecture enthusiasts traveling European cities. Because of its tiny size, the town plans to introduce financial taxation for all hotels and accommodation, with compensation ranging from €0.50 to €2.50 per tourist.

The Roman Catholic cathedral ofSantiago de Compostela, and its accompanying cityscape from Alameda Park.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

This small Swiss town offers breathtaking natural scenery. Because of its invigorating spirit, Lauterbrunnen is flooded with foreigners from all four corners of the globe every year. With a population of around 2,400 people, the town is considering a tourist tax between five to €10 per day which can be paid via smartphone.

A view of Lauterbrunnen's infamous mountains and waterways.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam already has measures in place to regulate tourism, such as restrictions on short-term rentals in certain neighborhoods. The city continues to reinforce these measures by raising tourist taxes to finance their management and maintain residents quality of life. However, there is still no tax at every entrance to the city—unlike Venice.

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A bicycle parked on the tourist-attracting canal bridge at sunset in Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands.

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The best things to do and see (or watch) in Europe this week

Austin Butler stars in a biker film, Naomi Campbell gets a V&A show, Paris goes freestyle in the park, and - wait a minute, are we getting a new Lana Del Rey song?

It's officially summer! Whether you're enjoying the Euros, Pride partying, prepping for festivals or eating lots of ice cream, the brighter evenings and (hopefully) warmer days ahead feel full of possibilities.

New art is everywhere and the cinema box office is, in the slightly misquoted words of fictional dog-avenger John Wick, "thinking it's back" following the success of Pixar's Inside Out 2 .

Like your cool friend that always knows what's up, here are our cultural recommendations for the week.

Exhibitions

'Naomi: In Fashion' at the V&A Museum (London, UK)

Naomi Campbell is one of the world's most famous supermodels, a defining figure of the 90s fashion scene who paved the way for other Black models. She now has a V&A exhibition dedicated to her illustrious career - the highs, and some of the lows - which began in the 1980s when she was just 16. On until April 2025, it's a fashion lovers dream come true, showcasing over 100 of Campbell's most iconic outfits and accessories (including the big blue Vivienne Westwood platforms she fell over in during a 1993 catwalk show).

'Kensington + Chelsea Art Trail' (London, UK)

A big crunchy apple, the world's smallest ever Chelsea Flower Show garden and 'love' squiggled in giant, peachy-pink lettering. These are just some of the sights you'll spot scattered around the swanky London borough of Kensington and Chelsea. They're part of an annual public art trail, which lasts until 31 August, leaving you the entire summer to explore. From the King's Road to Sloane Street, Earl's Court and Knightsbridge - some of the city's most famous streets will be host to unique installations, murals and twenty-five world-class sculptures, each inspired by this year's theme of 'Changing Landscapes'. Thought provoking and mesmerising, what better way to spend the warmer evenings than with outdoor art?

'Freestyle Extra' (Paris, France)

Park life! The Paris Olympics are just around the corner, and to help build anticipation are Cultural Olympiad events like 'Freestyle Extra' , a weekend of street art, sports competitions, music performances, dance parades, rollerskating, crafting and so much more. There's even a 'Twerkshop' to warm up ahead of activities. Plus, it's completely free, taking place at the Prairie du Cercle Nord during the day and Le Périphérique at night.

The Bikeriders

American director Jeff Nichols is back with his first new movie since 2016's Loving and Midnight Special. This time, a biker gang is the focus. Based on a 1960s photo book of motorcycle club members by photographer Danny Lyon, The Bikeriders looks to flesh out the lives of those once pictured. It's also inspired by the early years of a real life biker gang called the Chicago Outlaws, portraying its own version: Vandals MC. There's a stacked cast, with Tom Hardy as gang leader Johnny, Michael Shannon as biker Zipco, Austin Butler as biker Benny, and Jodie Comer playing his girlfriend Kathy. Less interested in being a wild ride, this is a film driven by character, slowly steering through the microcosmic eccentricities of midcentury motorcycle culture.

Kinds of Kindness

This is it. The moment of truth. Yorgos Lanthimos' highly-anticipated follow up to last year's Poor Things has finally arrived in cinemas. Unusually, its premise has mostly remained a mystery thanks to the ambiguous, Eurythmics-thumping trailer - and Lanthimos' anthology format. It tells three different stories, each featuring the same cast of actors in different roles: Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley and Jessie Plemons, who won Best Actor at Cannes this year.

Our film critic, David Mouriquand, was lucky enough to see Kinds of Kindness at Cannes. He wrote: "This triple helping of Lanthimos’ return to his Greek Weird Wave roots is for the OG fans - those who miss that queasy malaise felt during the indelibly bleak Dogtooth and troubling The Killing of a Sacred Deer ." Read the full review here .

'Rick and Morty' (Netflix)

Wubba lubba dub dub and all that - 'Rick and Morty' season 7 has arrived on Netflix for those that didn't manage to stream it after the initial American release in October of last year. Following the intergalactic adventures of drooling alcoholic, mad genius scientist Rick and his ditzy grandson Morty, the show has become a cult hit for its witty jokes and meme-able moments that now adorn nearly every t-shirt in your local comic book shop (pickle Rick).This is the first series, however, without its original co-creator and star, Justin Roiland, who was dropped by Adult Swim after allegations of domestic abuse came to light in 2023 (but were subsequently dropped ). While this doesn't seem to have had any real impact on people's enjoyment of the show, we can't help but wonder - when will it end?

Sabrina Carpenter covering Chappell Roan's 'Good Luck, Babe'

A little different from our usual new album or single recommendations, but Chappell Roan's 'Good Luck, Babe' has been on repeat for the author of this digest since its release back in April - and for 'Espresso' singer Sabrina Carpenter, too (Roan did introduce herself at Coachella as "your favourite artist's favourite artist"). Carpenter's BBC Live Lounge cover is just what's needed to get the weekend going - car windows down, speakers up, shades on, cares? Gone.

Also! Lana Del Rey and American rapper Quavo have released a teaser of an upcoming song collaboration titled 'Tough' via Instagram. No summertime sadness here.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

A city described as ‘England’s Medieval Heart’ has been named one of the UK’s best for a short break

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With summer just around the corner, a nice short city break might seem increasingly appealing, a way to pause the hustle and bustle without flying abroad.

Based on hotel prices and visitor satisfaction levels, one spot just eight miles from Stonehenge has been named one of the UK’s best cities to visit, should you need inspiration for a last-minute trip.

Described as ‘pretty,’ ‘quiet’ and ‘safe’ by one particularly generous Reddit user , Salisbury is a beautiful city steeped in history.

Ranked the sixth best location for a city break in the UK, a hotel here costs just £98 per night.

In first place was Wells in Somerset, where a hotel costs £93 per night on average, but customers had a satisfaction rate of 86%.

Close behind in second was Durham, where you can find digs for £107 per night, and in third was the picturesque St Andrews up in Scotland, accessible for £159 per night – albeit with a score of 78%, according to new data from Which.co.uk.

Things to do in Salisbury

Embedded in medieval history, Salisbury is an English gem with plenty to delve into, from local markets to quaint walks.

Salisbury Market Place is the focal point of the community, and the regular Charter Market, held every Tuesday and Saturday, dates back to the Medieval Age. There are also regular themed markets, ranging from vintage to continental.

For an insight into the city’s vast history, a visit to Salisbury Cathedral is a must.

The building’s impressive 123-metre spire is visible for miles, with tours available showcasing the legendary reasoning behind why the cathedral is here and no longer at the original site of Old Sarum. There are 332 steps up to its viewing platform, offering picturesque vistas from 68 metres above ground level.

If you’re a history buff, there’s also loads to see at The Salisbury Museum, where the Wessex Gallery hosts an array of local artefacts.

And of course, the iconic World Heritage Site of Stonehenge, which lies just eight miles north of Salisbury. If you don’t want to stop and take a look around, you can always take a peek from the car as there’s a main road that runs straight past it.

There are plenty of gorgeous cycling routes too, including National Cycle Routes 24 and 45 which pass through the city, as well as the Wiltshire Cycle Path.

Or, get walking and enjoy one of the numerous trails stretching through the countryside such as the Town Path, where painter John Constable took inspiration for one of his famous depictions of the cathedral.

How to get to Salisbury

Just over two hours away from London by car, Salisbury is incredibly accessible for a day trip.

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It’s also easy to get to on the train, with more than 20 services each day from London Waterloo to Exeter St David’s taking around three hours depending on the operator you go with. According to Trainline, tickets for this journey start from £14.60 when you book in advance.

The best small UK cities for a short break, according to Which

• Wells, Somerset (customer score: 86%, average hotel price: £93)
• Durham, County Durham (78%, £107)
• St Andrews, Fife (78%, £159)
• Winchester, Hampshire (77%, £102)
• Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire (76%, £117)
• Salisbury, Wiltshire (75%, £98)
• Stirling, Stirlingshire (75%, £101)
• St David’s, Pembrokeshire (74%, N/A)
• St Ives, Cornwall (74%, £150)
• Ely, Cambridgeshire (73%, £112).

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When is the first 2024 presidential debate between Trump and Biden? Date, time, moderators, how to watch

President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump will face off for their first debate of the 2024 election cycle later this month.

CNN, the host of the June 27 debate in Atlanta , recently released additional rules: Both candidates' microphones will be muted until it is their turn to speak, and they won't be allowed to interact with campaign staff during the two commercial breaks.

Trump and Biden skirted the  Commission on Presidential Debates and opted for earlier debates this year. The second debate is scheduled for Sept. 10, hosted by ABC.

Here is everything you need to know about watching the first presidential debate:

Who is Dana Bash? What to know about the moderator ahead of the June Presidential Debate

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When is the first Biden-Trump debate?

The first debate will be held on June 27, 2024.

What time is the presidential debate?

The CNN Presidential Debate will begin at 9 p.m. ET.

How can I watch the first debate between Trump and Biden?

CNN will host the first election debate between the two candidates in its Atlanta studio.

The debate will air live on CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español and CNN Max.

For those without a cable subscription, the debate will be streaming on CNN.com , the network said in a news release.

Looking for reliable local streaming options? Check out  USA TODAY Home Internet  for broadband service plans in your area.

Who are the moderators for the first Biden-Trump debate?

CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the debate.

Who is eligible to participate in the debates?

To qualify for participation, candidates must meet the following criteria, according to CNN:

• "Fulfill the requirements outlined in Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution
• "File a Statement of Candidacy with the Federal Election Commission
• "A candidate's name must appear on a sufficient number of state ballots to reach the 270 electoral vote threshold to win the presidency prior to the eligibility deadline
• "Agree to accept the rules and format of the debate
• "Receive at least 15% in four separate national polls of registered or likely voters that meet CNN's standards for reporting."

It is unlikely that independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  will meet the requirements to participate in the debate.

Want daily politics news in your inbox? Subscribe to OnPolitics for presidential debate takeaways and everything to know about the election.

Contributing: Sudiksha Kochi