One of the vital lovely cities in Europe is Venice, Italy
We most definitely haven’t seen all of Europe, however we needed to do a round-up of Europe’s most lovely cities….that we’ve seen up to now. Cities with gorgeous structure, a captivating historical past and a vibrant nightlife scene, we’ve obtained you coated.
Desk of Contents
Toggle1. 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 lovely place to go to. Town can also be residence to plenty of charming islands, together with the island of Lokrum, which is residence to a stunning botanical backyard and a monastery that dates again to the twelfth century.
One of many essential issues that make Dubrovnik so lovely is its Outdated City, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s surrounded by a medieval wall that was constructed within the thirteenth century.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 and over the Dalmatian coast. 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
The Medieval structure of Porto is what stands out on this pretty metropolis on the Douro River. This coastal metropolis has remodeled through the years to change into our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. In the present day, additionally it is one of the vital visited cities in Portugal. When visiting Porto, stroll by means of its previous 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 special 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 one of the vital lovely cities on this planet. It’s undoubtedly on the high as a romantic metropolis, and we are able to’t assist however fall in love with it each time we go to many times. It could appear cliché, however it can all the time be probably the most lovely 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 record.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen holds a particular place in our hearts. This enchanting metropolis is a deal with to discover. With Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, The Little Mermaid, and an limitless stream of canals, Copenhagen undoubtedly deserves to be named one among Europe’s most lovely cities. It is sort of a fairytale.
Nyhavn might be probably the most scenic cityscape of all of the Scandinavian cities we visited. This waterfront canal is positioned within the Outdated City and is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Seventeenth-century townhouses line the canal full of historic sailboats. What makes these townhouses so distinctive is that they’re painted in brilliant colours.
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5. Venice, Italy
Venice is without doubt one of the greatest European cities to go to in the event you don’t go on a cruise. Touring independently and staying in a single day within the metropolis is a implausible expertise. Regardless that it’s identified for its canals, getting misplaced in its maze of slim cobblestone streets and again alleys is a part of the enjoyable of visiting this charming metropolis.
We spent six days exploring Venice, and it shortly grew to become one among our favourite cities to go to in Europe. We’d watch cruise traces and bus excursions are available for a day and zip proper again out earlier than that they had an opportunity to essentially discover Venice. Taking boat journeys by means of the canals created a picture-perfect expertise, and having fun with quiet drinks on a bistro terrace felt like a dream.
6. Athens
Athens is residence to a few of the most well-known historical ruins on this planet, together with the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and The Historic Agora. Nothing is extra breathtaking than sitting at a rooftop bar at Monastiraki Sq., wanting on the Acropolis standing proudly over the town.
There are numerous locations to absorb views of the town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. Probably the greatest locations, although, is to take the cable automotive as much as Lybitacus Hill. Be certain to remain within the metropolis heart to have the ability to stroll to the entire fashionable vacationer sights. It’s one of the vital walkable capital cities in Europe, and we adore it. Whether or not you have an interest in historical past, artwork, or simply having fun with the sights and sounds of a vibrant metropolis, Athens has one thing to give you.
7. Budapest, Hungary
Situated on the Danube River in Central Europe, guests will likely be in awe of the Budapest waterfront. Strolling over the chain bridge to witness the great thing about the Hungarian twin cities of Buda and Pest is pure perfection. When the lights come on in Budapest, make your manner all the way down to the river and take within the splendor of the 2 cities.
The Hungarian Parliament 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 smash bars. These two vacationer locations are what make Budapest so distinctive.
8. Florence, Italy
Florence, Italy, is a metropolis of Artwork
Florence is really a metropolis of artwork and one of the vital lovely 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 possibly can stroll slowly by means of its cobbled streets whereas having fun with each constructing you lay eyes upon. Recognized for the Sculpture of David, the Ponte Vechhio and Fabulous delicacies, Florence is a metropolis you’ll wish to take your time to get pleasure from.
The Duomo stands proud within the metropolis heart, and limitless streets free from visitors make strolling a pleasure. Be certain to spend greater than a day journey when visiting Florence, spend a number of to essentially delve into the artwork and tradition of this attractive metropolis.
9. Bergen, Norway
We expect Bergen, Norway, is without doubt one of the most lovely cities in Europe on account of its pure magnificence. Surrounded by mountains, it’s genuinely picture-perfect. The historic Bryggen Space makes for a picturesque waterfront. It is probably not the obvious Norwegian metropolis to go to in Europe (most individuals naturally consider Oslo first), however Bergen is undoubtedly one for the bucket record.
The primary place it’s best to go to in Bergen is Bryggen, the fairytale village of historic wood homes lining the waterfront. This historic quarter of Bergen is a UNESCO World Heritage Website with good purpose. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Be certain to take the cable automotive to the highest of Mount Fløyen for superb views of the town. While you see Bergen, you’ll agree that it might be one of many prettiest cities in Europe.
10. Brussels, Belgium
Most Stunning Cities in Europe: Brussels, Belgium.
Brussels was one of many first European cities we’ve ever visited, and I’ll always remember the sensation we had after we lastly discovered the sq.. We had been strolling the town streets and rounded a nook to see the well-known Outdated City Sq.. And the sight took our breath away. We revisited it a few years in the past, and the sensation didn’t fade.
We nonetheless assume that the Sq. of Brussels is without doubt one of the most lovely squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are a few of the greatest in Europe. Horta Resort Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed within the Artwork Nouveau fashion. It’s a completely lovely 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 lovely cities in Europe.
11. Bruges, Belgium
Typically, individuals assume Bruges is without doubt one of the most lovely European cities. We visited Bruges in 1996 and truthfully can’t keep in mind considering it was lovely, however we thought we’d sneak it in after Brussels as a hidden gem of a European metropolis to go to on this record. Fortunately, we now have 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 assume!
12. Rome, Italy
Rome made the record of gorgeous cities to go to in Europe due to how historical ruins weave by means of trendy structure. The Everlasting Metropolis has a mixture of previous and new, leaving Roman historical past intact. They’ve included the previous Roman structure into the plans of the town. Trendy buildings spring up between historical monuments, and we adore it!
All the previous metropolis heart of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Website. Witnessing locations just like the Colosseum, Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica is on many a traveler’s bucket record. It’s one awe-inspiring sight after one other once you go to this European Metropolis. So add Rome to your record of should go to cities in Europe, you received’t be dissatisfied. Hire or Purchase Roman Vacation starring Audrey Hepburn to get into your Rome journey temper.
13. Prague, Czechia
We actually fell in love with Prague. Such a ravishing metropolis.
We had typically heard that Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) was a ravishing metropolis in Europe, and after we first laid eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint. Sure, it’s busy and crowded, however in the event you step out of the principle path, you’ll discover quiet spots to seize a chunk or an reasonably priced pint. Like all metropolis in Europe, the river affords probably the most lovely views. The Prague Fort stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the stunning Vltava River.
If you happen to get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you’ll have all of it to your self. The previous city sq. is without doubt 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 lovely structure in personal.
14. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia is such a ravishing metropolis
When gazing upon the 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, additionally it is Europe’s largest metropolis. It’s the Jap affect that makes this metropolis so lovely.
Mosques dot the cityscape as spires peek out from above the skyline. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia don’t disappoint, and the Outdated Metropolis is the right place to get misplaced in time. Take a stroll by means of the Grand Baazar or go as much as the highest of Galata Tower for the perfect views of the town.
Visiting Istanbul is a wealthy cultural expertise the place the East meets the West. It’s an unlimited metropolis, but it’s straightforward to stroll and navigate. If you may make it as much as the Galata Tower to witness it from above, make sure you do. You’ll perceive why we are saying it is without doubt one of the most lovely cities in Europe.
15. London, England
Our favourite a part of London was hanging out by the river, with Tower Bridge spanning the Thames. We took water taxis and ferries and took in the great thing about the town from the water and to discover its world class museums. London has remodeled previously 20 years to change into an exquisite mixture of historic structure mixing with trendy skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Huge Ben and the Tower of London to the London Eye to The Shard and The Gherkin, London has one of the vital eclectic skylines in Europe, and it’s lovely. Do you agree?
16. Dublin, Eire
It took me some time so as to add Dublin to my record of gorgeous cities however Dublin is by far one among our favorite European cities. Once I began compiling this, I solely considered skylines and locations that took my breath away. However after visiting Dublin a number of occasions, I noticed that it isn’t nearly a skyline of skyscrapers that makes a metropolis lovely; it’s the tradition and other people. The River Liffey snakes by means of the guts of the town, and when going for a stroll, one can actually absorb its attraction.
Dublin has quiet parks for getaways, castles to discover, and a very good pub scene. The extra we journey to it, the extra lovely 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. Referred to 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. In fact, you possibly can experience a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we now have rather a lot in widespread with the individuals of the Netherlands.
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18. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm was one among our favourite cities in Scandinavia. The capital metropolis of Sweden is positioned on the Baltic Sea, and the colourful buildings of the previous city line the waterfront, taking your breath away.
What we love about Scandinavian cities is how there are amusement parks proper within the heart of the town, and Stockholm is not any exception, with its grounds on the river. This northern metropolis is related by ferries that take guests to 14 islands. You received’t overlook your go to to Stockholm, it’s among the finest vacationer locations in northern Europe.
19. Tallinn, Estonia
We solely managed to pop over to Estonia for a day, however I’m so blissful that the town we visited was lovely, Tallinn. In case you are doing a Scandinavia tour, Tallinn is certainly one of many prettiest cities to go to (in northern Europe, a minimum of) on the record.
Tallinn was shocking. We didn’t actually know what to anticipate when visiting Estonia, however it’s an thrilling nation with a really wealthy historical past. We will’t wait to return and see extra! With its medieval sq., excessive lookouts, and an historical wall, it has every thing you’ll want to see when visiting a European Metropolis. In case you are touring by means of Scandinavia, add Estonia to your record.
20. Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting Iceland was a dream come true, and its capital metropolis, Reykjavik, is gorgeous. Reykjavik is without doubt one of the smaller cities on our record, but it surely packs a punch. Like lots of Europe’s lovely cities, Reykjavik has colourful buildings lining the waterfront, pedestrian avenues, and plenty of purchasing, eating, and nightlife. It’s a metropolis that’s “quintessentially Nordic” and, when visiting Iceland, deserves a few days to discover.
Like many European Cities on this record, Iceland was used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones. Regardless that Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and most of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons have been used within the fashionable collection. We have been big Sport of Thrones followers and visited many locations world wide. Try this Sport of Thrones Tour of Northern Eire that recreates a few of the scenes shot in Iceland.
21. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain
The extra we go to Barcelona, the extra we adore it. At first, we weren’t followers of Gaudi’s works, however as we obtained to know his work extra, we fell in love together with his revolutionary, colourful, and playful structure. In truth, 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 ravishing waterfront, quiet parks, downtown strolling streets, and bustling markets, Barcelona is certainly one of the vital lovely 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 beautiful spot to absorb the sundown and watch the attractive individuals stroll by. Zurich has all of it with a well-preserved previous city, a wealthy historical past, and incomparable wealth. Strolling by means of the cobbled streets will take you again in time.
One in all our favourite issues to do in Zurich was to see it from above. Take the Felsenegg cable automotive as much as 803 meters above sea degree for breathtaking views of the town.
23. Vienna, Austria
We visited Vienna, Austria through the vacation season, and it’s second to none in relation to Christmas Markets. Town shines with lights and festivities. This is the reason Vienna is known as one of the vital lovely 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 out of doors outlets. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World Conflict II and is taken into account one of the vital glamorous on this planet.
24. Munich, Germany
Germany’s Bavaria stunned us. We didn’t count on to adore it a lot, however it’s Europe’s hidden gem. Munich is probably the most populous metropolis in Bavaria, and it’s a full of life city with beer halls, a college, an expansive park, and implausible structure. Munich is a metropolis full of cobblestone streets which are good for strolling within the Outdated 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. Additionally it is the capital metropolis of Switzerland. Bern doesn’t really feel like a political hub, although; this metropolis was made for strolling. The walkways of Bern are all coated, making purchasing nice in any kind of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our determination to incorporate it in our record of probably the most lovely cities we’ve ever visited.
26. Lisbon, Portugal
There are such a lot of lovely cities in Portugal that it’s difficult to decide on, however Lisbon is a star. Situated on the Atlantic coast, the town is residence to plenty 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 slim streets and colourful homes and revel in its vibrant cultural scene at one among its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, alternatively, is a extra trendy neighborhood that’s identified for its vast boulevards and chic buildings. Moreover its historic landmarks, Lisbon can also be residence to plenty of trendy 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 means 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 components of cities. If you happen to’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as lovely as they’re immediately, and the previous metropolis of Seville is not any exception.
Individuals have taken observe of Seville yet again due to Sport of Thrones, which used this location for the town of Mareen and places in Dorne. It’s no surprise Seville is without doubt one of the most lovely 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 lovely, too! The Helsinki Cathedral is the middle level of the town, towering over the colourful buildings that line the waterfront.
We love how Scandinavians all the time have swimming swimming pools proper within the coronary heart of the town. Helsinki has a outstanding swimming gap on the canal. The water is so clear! Like so many cities we love, there are strolling streets, purchasing, and loads of bistros and cafes.
29. Basel Switzerland
Beaufitul Basel Switzerland
Switzerland has one lovely metropolis after one other and we couldn’t finish our lovely cities in Europe record with out together with our favourite metropolis in Switzerland, Basel. Situated on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the right mix of previous and new. The historical past of the Outdated City blends superbly with the modern architectural designs all through the town. The cultural capital of Switzerland has an impressive Outdated City.
Take a tour of The Altstadt (Outdated Metropolis) to see the implausible Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of the town by means of its twin towers and pink sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by means of the town heart, and there’s no higher manner to absorb the views of the 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 collection of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags, offering panoramic views of the encircling space. The Outdated City is a very picturesque space, with its winding medieval streets and towering castles and church buildings. The Royal Mile is the oldest part of the town.
One of the vital iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Fort, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that provides breathtaking views of the town. The fortress is residence to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Future. The Scott Monument, a towering Victorian Gothic monument, is a well-liked attraction and 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 international locations to Istanbul straddling two continents, there are such a lot of cities to go to in Europe it can take a lifetime to see all of them.
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The Most Stunning Cities in Europe
Most European cities have completed a tremendous job preserving their buildings and historical past, which performs an enormous half in figuring out the place they’re locations on this record. Need extra info on European Capital Cities? Try 14 Finest European Capital Cities To Go to
