We’ve compiled our listing of probably the most stunning cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This listing just isn’t another person’s opinion; these are the most effective European cities that we’ve personally visited in actual life. We’ve seen and skilled all of those cities firsthand, and while you see them, you’ll be able to click on by way of to learn extra in-depth guides. So get able to allow us to assist you to select the most effective metropolis so as to add to your European journey itinerary.
We most definitely haven’t seen all of Europe, however we’ve been to most of them. We selected these cities for his or her gorgeous structure and engaging historical past. In case you are on the lookout for historic websites, a vibrant nightlife scene, and even gorgeous seashores, we’ve bought you lined.
Desk of Contents
1. Dubrovnik2. Porto, Portugal3. Paris, France4. Copenhagen, Denmark5. Venice, Italy6. Athens7. Budapest, Hungary8. Florence, Italy9. Bergen, Norway10. Brussels, Belgium11. Bruges, Belgium12. Rome, Italy13. Prague, Czechia14. Istanbul, Turkey15. London, England16. Dublin, Ireland17. Amsterdam, Netherlands18. Stockholm, Sweden19. Tallinn, Estonia20. Reykjavik, Iceland21. Barcelona, Spain22. Zurich Switzerland23. Vienna, Austria24. Munich, Germany25. Bern, Switzerland26. Lisbon, Portugal27. Seville, Spain28. Helsinki, Finland29. Basel Switzerland30. Edinburgh, Scotland
1. Dubrovnik
Situated on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea and picturesque seashores that make it a very stunning place to go to. Town can also be dwelling to a variety of charming islands, together with the island of Lokrum, which is dwelling to a beautiful botanical backyard and a monastery that dates again to the twelfth century.
One of many important issues that make Dubrovnik so stunning is its Previous City, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s surrounded by a medieval wall that was constructed within the thirteenth century. Stroll alongside the wall for panoramic metropolis views. Locations of curiosity embody Dubrovnik Cathedral, the Rector’s Palace, and the Sponza Palace. Dubrovnik was additionally used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones.
2. Porto, Portugal
Situated in Northern Portugal, Porto has skyrocketed to the highest of individuals’s listing of cities to see after they go to Europe. The Medieval structure of Porto is what stands out on this pretty metropolis on the Douro River. This coastal metropolis has golden seashores by the ocean and grand boulevards alongside the river. Porto has reworked over time to turn out to be our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. As we speak, it’s also probably the most visited cities in Portugal. When visiting Porto, stroll by way of its outdated city, starting on the banks of the River Douro. Stroll its charming streets seeking a Fado efficiency, or hop on a river cruise to see its Medieval buildings from a unique angle.
Strolling alongside the bustling waterfront makes for a romantic night, sipping port wine takes you again in time, and don’t overlook to take the funicular up for panoramic views.
3. Paris, France
Paris is commonly thought of probably the most stunning cities on the planet. It’s undoubtedly on the high as a romantic metropolis, and we will’t assist however fall in love with it at any time when we go to repeatedly. It could appear cliché, however it would all the time be probably the most stunning metropolis in Europe to us. Paris can also be one of many few cities that we revisit repeatedly. Regardless of what number of different cities we see, we nonetheless return to the Metropolis of Lights and gaze upon it with surprise and awe. We by no means tire of seeing completely different views of the Eiffel Tower, and going up for a champagne toast is one for the bucket listing.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen holds a particular place in our hearts. This enchanting metropolis is a deal with to discover. With Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, The Little Mermaid, and an infinite stream of canals, Copenhagen positively deserves to be named one in all Europe’s most stunning cities. It is sort of a fairytale.
Nyhavn might be probably the most scenic cityscape of all of the Scandinavian cities we visited. This waterfront canal is situated within the Previous City and is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Seventeenth-century townhouses line the canal full of historic sailboats. What makes these townhouses so distinctive is that they’re painted in vivid colours.
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5. Venice, Italy
Venice is likely one of the finest European cities to go to when you don’t go on a cruise. Touring independently and staying in a single day within the metropolis is a implausible expertise. Though it’s recognized for its canals, getting misplaced in its maze of slender cobblestone streets and again alleys is a part of the enjoyable of visiting this charming metropolis.
We spent six days exploring Venice, and it rapidly grew to become one in all our favourite cities to go to in Europe. We’d watch cruise strains and bus excursions are available in for a day and zip proper again out earlier than they’d an opportunity to actually discover Venice. Taking boat journeys by way of the canals created a picture-perfect expertise, and having fun with quiet drinks on a bistro terrace felt like a dream.
6. Athens
Athens is dwelling to among the most well-known historical ruins on the planet, together with the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and The Historical Agora. Nothing is extra breathtaking than sitting at a rooftop bar at Monastiraki Sq., wanting on the Acropolis standing proudly over town.
There are numerous locations to absorb views of town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. Top-of-the-line locations, although, is to take the cable automotive as much as Lybitacus Hill. Be certain that to remain within the metropolis heart to have the ability to stroll to all the in style vacationer points of interest. It’s probably the most walkable capital cities in Europe, and we like it. Whether or not you have an interest in historical past, artwork, or simply having fun with the sights and sounds of a vibrant metropolis, Athens has one thing to give you.
7. Budapest, Hungary
Situated on the Danube River in Central Europe, guests will probably be in awe of the Budapest waterfront. Strolling over the chain bridge to witness the fantastic thing about the Hungarian twin cities of Buda and Pest is pure perfection. When the lights come on in Budapest, make your means right down to the river and take within the splendor of the 2 cities.
The Hungarian Parliament buildings dominate the Hungarian Capital and shines at evening because the Széchenyi Chain Bridge displays in its waters, making for a magical scene. Budapest at evening is really one of many prettiest cities in Europe. Budapest is thought for its thermal baths and destroy bars. These two vacationer locations are what make Budapest so distinctive.
8. Florence, Italy
Florence is really a metropolis of artwork and probably the most stunning cities to go to in Europe. With each flip, you’ll run into sculptures or intricate etchings within the structure. It’s a metropolis the place you’ll be able to stroll slowly by way of its cobbled streets whereas having fun with each constructing you lay eyes upon. Identified for the Sculpture of David, the Ponte Vechhio and Fabulous delicacies, Florence is a metropolis you’ll need to take your time to get pleasure from.
The Duomo stands proud within the metropolis heart, and infinite streets free from visitors make strolling a pleasure. Be certain that to spend greater than a day journey when visiting Florence, spend a number of to actually delve into the artwork and tradition of this attractive metropolis.
9. Bergen, Norway
We predict Bergen, Norway, is likely one of the most stunning cities in Europe resulting from its pure magnificence. Surrounded by mountains, it’s genuinely picture-perfect. The historic Bryggen Space makes for a picturesque waterfront. It is probably not the obvious Norwegian metropolis to go to in Europe (most individuals naturally consider Oslo first), however Bergen is undoubtedly one for the bucket listing.
The primary place you must go to in Bergen is Bryggen, the fairytale village of historic wood homes lining the waterfront. This historic quarter of Bergen is a UNESCO World Heritage Website with good cause. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Be certain that to take the cable automotive to the highest of Mount Fløyen for superb views of town. Once you see Bergen, you’ll agree that it might be one of many prettiest cities in Europe.
10. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels was one of many first European cities we’ve ever visited, and I’ll always remember the sensation we had after we lastly discovered the sq.. We had been strolling town streets and rounded a nook to see the well-known Previous City Sq.. And the sight took our breath away. We revisited it a few years in the past, and the sensation didn’t fade.
We nonetheless suppose that the Sq. of Brussels is likely one of the most stunning squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are among the finest in Europe. Horta Resort Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed within the Artwork Nouveau type. It’s a fully stunning metropolis full of historical past and attraction, however it’s the metropolis sq. that places it close to the highest of our favourite of probably the most stunning cities in Europe.
11. Bruges, Belgium
Usually, individuals suppose Bruges is likely one of the most stunning European cities. We visited Bruges in 1996 and truthfully can’t keep in mind pondering it was stunning, however we thought we’d sneak it in after Brussels as a hidden gem of a European metropolis to go to on this listing. Fortunately, we’ve had individuals write articles about Bruges for us; we did see the film “In Bruges,” to realize additional appreciation since our go to practically 30 years in the past. Test this out and see what you suppose!
12. Rome, Italy
Rome made the listing of gorgeous cities to go to in Europe due to how historical ruins weave by way of fashionable structure. The Everlasting Metropolis has a mixture of outdated and new, leaving Roman historical past intact. They’ve included the outdated Roman structure into the plans of town. Trendy buildings spring up between historical monuments, and we like it!
The complete outdated metropolis heart of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Website. Witnessing locations just like the Colosseum, Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica is on many a traveler’s bucket listing. It’s one awe-inspiring sight after one other while you go to this European Metropolis. So add Rome to your listing of should go to cities in Europe, you gained’t be disenchanted. Hire or Purchase Roman Vacation starring Audrey Hepburn to get into your Rome journey temper.
13. Prague, Czechia
We had typically heard that Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) was a phenomenal metropolis in Europe, and after we first laid eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint. Sure, it’s busy and crowded, however when you step out of the principle path, you’ll discover quiet spots to seize a chew or an inexpensive pint. Like all metropolis in Europe, the river affords probably the most stunning views. The Prague Citadel stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the beautiful Vltava River of Jap Europe.
In case you get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you’ll have all of it to your self. The city sq. is likely one of the prettiest in Europe, and when you’ve got all of it to your self, it’s actually breathtaking. Dave and I have been amazed to see that individuals didn’t actually get began till after 9:00 am, which gave us loads of time to benefit from the stunning structure and medieval church buildings in personal.
14. Istanbul, Turkey
When gazing upon town of Istanbul from our rooftop terrace at evening, it’s set afire with gentle. Istanbul is a metropolis with two personalities—one foot within the West with a European aptitude and the opposite foot within the East of Asia. Spanning two continents, it’s also Europe’s largest metropolis. It’s the Jap affect that makes this metropolis so stunning.
Mosques dot the cityscape as spires peek out from above the skyline. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia don’t disappoint, and the Previous Metropolis is the proper place to get misplaced in time. Take a stroll by way of the Grand Baazar or go as much as the highest of Galata Tower for the most effective views of town. Visiting Istanbul is a wealthy cultural expertise the place the East meets the West. It’s an infinite metropolis, but it’s straightforward to stroll and navigate.
15. London, England
Our favourite a part of London was hanging out by the river, with Tower Bridge spanning the Thames. Like most cities, the most effective points of interest of London are situated on the water. We took water taxis and ferries, took within the metropolis’s magnificence from the river, and explored its world class museums. London has reworked previously 20 years to turn out to be a beautiful mixture of historic structure mixing with fashionable skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Huge Ben and the Tower of London to the London Eye to The Shard and The Gherkin, London has probably the most eclectic skylines in Europe, and it’s stunning. Do you agree?
16. Dublin, Eire
It took me some time so as to add Dublin to my listing of gorgeous cities however Dublin is by far one in all our favorite European cities. After I began compiling this, I solely considered skylines and locations that took my breath away. However after visiting Dublin a number of instances, I spotted that it isn’t nearly a skyline of skyscrapers that makes a metropolis stunning; it’s the tradition and folks. The River Liffey snakes by way of the center of town, and when going for a stroll, one can actually absorb its attraction.
Dublin has quiet parks for getaways, castles to discover, and a very good pub scene. The extra we journey to it, the extra stunning it turns into.
17. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dave and I visited Amsterdam earlier than our journey running a blog careers, but it surely left an impression. Often known as the Venice of the North, Amsterdam is a metropolis of picturesque canals. The colourful waterways make it one of many prettiest cities in Europe, and the canals are good for a stroll, making it an ideal strolling metropolis. After all, you’ll be able to experience a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we’ve so much in frequent with the individuals of the Netherlands.
Learn extra about Amsterdam
18. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm was one in all our favourite cities in Scandinavia. The capital metropolis of Sweden is situated on the Baltic Sea, and the colourful buildings of the outdated city line the waterfront, taking your breath away.
What we love about Scandinavian cities is how there are amusement parks proper within the heart of town, and Stockholm is not any exception, with its grounds on the river. This northern metropolis is linked by ferries that take guests to 14 islands. You gained’t overlook your go to to Stockholm, it’s probably the greatest vacationer locations in northern Europe.
19. Tallinn, Estonia
We solely managed to pop over to Estonia for a day, however I’m so completely satisfied that town we visited was stunning, Tallinn. In case you are doing a Scandinavia tour, Tallinn is certainly one of many prettiest cities to go to (in northern Europe, not less than) on the listing.
Tallinn was shocking. We didn’t actually know what to anticipate when visiting Estonia, however it’s an thrilling nation with a really wealthy historical past. We are able to’t wait to return and see extra! With its medieval sq., excessive lookouts, and an historical wall, it has all the pieces you’ll want to see when visiting a European Metropolis. In case you are touring by way of Scandinavia, add Estonia to your listing.
Learn extra: 6 Should-Have Experiences Once you Go to Estonia
20. Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting Iceland was a dream come true, and its capital metropolis, Reykjavik, is gorgeous. Reykjavik is likely one of the smaller cities on our listing, but it surely packs a punch. Like lots of Europe’s stunning cities, Reykjavik has colourful buildings lining the waterfront, pedestrian avenues, and plenty of purchasing, eating, and nightlife. It’s a metropolis that’s “quintessentially Nordic” and, when visiting Iceland, deserves a few days to discover.
Like many European Cities on this listing, Iceland was used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones. Though Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and lots of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons have been used within the in style sequence. We have been large Sport of Thrones followers and visited many locations world wide. Take a look at this Sport of Thrones Tour of Northern Eire that recreates among the scenes shot in Iceland.
21. Barcelona, Spain
The extra we go to Barcelona, the extra we like it. At first, we weren’t followers of Gaudi’s works, however as we bought to know his work extra, we fell in love along with his revolutionary, colourful, and playful structure. In reality, Barcelona’s structure is so distinctive and essential that it 9 of its buildings are designated UNESCO World Heritage websites. Seven of which belong to Anotnie Gaudi himself.
With a phenomenal waterfront, quiet parks, downtown strolling streets, and bustling markets, Barcelona is certainly probably the most stunning and vibrant cities we’ve visited in Europe.
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22. Zurich Switzerland
The gorgeous European metropolis of Zurich is a dream vacation spot. The picturesque setting on Lake Zurich and the Limmat River make for a stunning spot to absorb the sundown and watch the gorgeous individuals stroll by. Zurich has all of it, with a well-preserved outdated city, numerous historic websites, and incomparable wealth. Strolling by way of the cobbled streets will take you again in time.
One among our favourite issues to do in Zurich was to see it from above. Take the Felsenegg cable automotive as much as 803 meters above sea degree for breathtaking views of town.
23. Vienna, Austria
We visited Vienna, Austria through the vacation season, and it’s second to none with regards to Christmas Markets. Town shines with lights and festivities. For this reason Vienna is known as probably the most stunning capital cities in Europe. From its magnificent structure and spectacular museums to its musical historical past and artwork scene, it’s straightforward to see why Vienna is so well-known.
Bundle up and drink some mulled wine when you browse the strolling streets and outside outlets. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World Struggle II and is taken into account probably the most glamorous on the planet.
24. Munich, Germany
Germany’s Bavaria stunned us. We didn’t anticipate to like it a lot, however it’s Europe’s hidden gem. Munich is probably the most populous metropolis in Bavaria, and it’s a full of life city with beer halls, a college, an expansive park, and implausible structure. Munich is a metropolis full of cobblestone streets which might be good for strolling within the Previous City, and the picturesque squares make it straightforward to discover on foot or by bicycle.
25. Bern, Switzerland
Bern, Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Website and the political heart of Switzerland. It is usually the capital metropolis of Switzerland. Bern doesn’t really feel like a political hub, although; this metropolis was made for strolling. The walkways of Bern are all lined, making purchasing nice in any sort of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our determination to incorporate it in our listing of probably the most stunning cities we’ve ever visited.
26. Lisbon, Portugal
There are such a lot of stunning cities in Portugal that it’s difficult to decide on, however Lisbon is a star. Situated on the Atlantic coast, town is dwelling to a variety of spectacular buildings and landmarks, together with the Belem Tower overlooking the Tagus River and Jeronimos Monastery.
Go to the Alfama neighborhood to wander its slender streets and colourful homes and revel in its vibrant cultural scene at one in all its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, however, is a extra fashionable neighborhood that’s recognized for its broad boulevards and stylish buildings. Moreover its historic landmarks, Lisbon can also be dwelling to a variety of fashionable buildings, such because the Vasco da Gama Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Europe.
27. Seville, Spain
We popped into Seville on a highway journey by way of Spain and Italy years in the past and we wished we had stayed longer! One thing we love about European cities is how they don’t change the historic elements of cities. In case you’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as stunning as they’re right this moment, and the outdated metropolis of Seville is not any exception.
Folks have taken word of Seville another time because of Sport of Thrones, which used this location for town of Mareen and areas in Dorne. It’s no surprise Seville is likely one of the most stunning locations in Europe!
28. Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki was our last cease on our Scandinavian tour, and like all of the cities we visited in Northern Europe, it was stunning, too! The Helsinki Cathedral is the middle level of town, towering over the colourful buildings that line the waterfront.
We love how Scandinavians all the time have swimming swimming pools proper within the coronary heart of town. Helsinki has a distinguished swimming gap on the canal. The water is so clear! Like so many cities we love, there are strolling streets, purchasing, and loads of bistros and cafes.
29. Basel Switzerland
Switzerland has one stunning metropolis after one other and we couldn’t finish our stunning cities in Europe listing with out together with our favourite metropolis in Switzerland, Basel. Situated on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the proper mix of outdated and new. The historical past of the Previous City blends superbly with the up to date architectural designs all through town. The cultural capital of Switzerland has a powerful Previous City.
Take a tour of The Altstadt (Previous Metropolis) to see the implausible Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of town by way of its twin towers and purple sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by way of town heart, and there’s no higher means to absorb the views of town than by both taking a ship tour or swimming within the river. (You heard me accurately; one of many high issues to do in Basel is to swim within the Rhine River.)
30. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is constructed atop a sequence of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags, offering panoramic views of the encircling space. The Previous City is a very picturesque space, with its winding medieval streets and towering castles and church buildings. The Royal Mile is the oldest part of town.
Some of the iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Citadel, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that gives breathtaking views of town. The fortress is dwelling to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Future. The Scott Monument, a towering Victorian Gothic monument, is a well-liked attraction and affords panoramic views of this charming metropolis.
Europe is such an enormous continent. It could be small in space, however it’s monumental in inhabitants and concrete facilities. From Russia to Greece or Northern Europe’s Scandinavia nations to Istanbul straddling two continents, there are such a lot of cities to go to in Europe it would take a lifetime to see all of them.
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Most European cities have carried out a tremendous job preserving their buildings and historical past, which performs an enormous half in figuring out the place they’re locations on this listing. Need extra data on European Capital Cities? Take a look at 14 Finest European Capital Cities To Go to