We’ve compiled our checklist of essentially the most stunning cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This checklist shouldn’t be another person’s opinion; these are one of the best European cities that we’ve personally visited in actual life. We’ve seen and skilled all of those cities firsthand, and whenever you see them, you possibly can click on by means of to learn extra in-depth guides. So get able to allow us to enable you to select one of the best 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 beautiful structure and interesting historical past. If you’re searching for historic websites, a vibrant nightlife scene, and even beautiful seashores, we’ve obtained you coated.

1. Dubrovnik

Positioned on the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea and picturesque seashores that make it a really stunning place to go to. The town can also be dwelling to a variety of charming islands, together with the island of Lokrum, which is dwelling to a stunning botanical backyard and a monastery that dates again to the twelfth century.

One of many principal issues that make Dubrovnik so stunning is its Previous City, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s surrounded by a medieval wall that was constructed within the thirteenth century. Stroll alongside the wall for panoramic metropolis views. Locations of curiosity embrace Dubrovnik Cathedral, the Rector’s Palace, and the Sponza Palace. Dubrovnik was additionally used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones.

2. Porto, Portugal

Positioned in Northern Portugal, Porto has skyrocketed to the highest of individuals’s checklist of cities to see after they go to Europe. The Medieval structure of Porto is what stands out on this pretty metropolis on the Douro River. This coastal metropolis has golden seashores by the ocean and grand boulevards alongside the river. Porto has reworked through the years to change into our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. At the moment, additionally it is probably the most 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 in quest of 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 usually thought of probably the most stunning cities on the planet. It’s undoubtedly on the high as a romantic metropolis, and we are able to’t assist however fall in love with it at any time when we go to repeatedly. It might appear cliché, however it’ll all the time be essentially the most stunning metropolis in Europe to us. Paris can also be one of many few cities that we revisit frequently. Irrespective of what number of different cities we see, we nonetheless return to the Metropolis of Lights and gaze upon it with marvel and awe. We by no means tire of seeing totally different views of the Eiffel Tower, and going up for a champagne toast is one for the bucket checklist.

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 considered one of Europe’s most stunning cities. It is sort of a fairytale.

Nyhavn might be essentially the most scenic cityscape of all of the Scandinavian cities we visited. This waterfront canal is positioned within the Previous City and is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Seventeenth-century townhouses line the canal crammed with historic sailboats. What makes these townhouses so distinctive is that they’re painted in brilliant colours.

• To see extra of Copenhagen, take a look at:

5. Venice, Italy

Venice is among the finest European cities to go to in the event you don’t go on a cruise. Touring independently and staying in a single day within the metropolis is a incredible expertise. Despite the fact that it’s recognized for its canals, getting misplaced in its maze of slim cobblestone streets and again alleys is a part of the enjoyable of visiting this charming metropolis.

We spent six days exploring Venice, and it rapidly grew to become considered one of our favourite cities to go to in Europe. We might watch cruise strains and bus excursions are available in 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 dwelling to a number of the most well-known historic 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 the town.

There are a lot of locations to soak up 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 sure that to remain within the metropolis middle to have the ability to stroll to all the well-liked vacationer points of interest. It’s probably the most walkable capital cities in Europe, and we find it irresistible. 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

Positioned on the Danube River in Central Europe, guests can 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 method 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 spoil 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 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 middle, and infinite streets free from visitors make strolling a pleasure. Be sure that to spend greater than a day journey when visiting Florence, spend a number of to essentially delve into the artwork and tradition of this beautiful metropolis.

9. Bergen, Norway

We predict Bergen, Norway, is among 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 will not be the obvious Norwegian metropolis to go to in Europe (most individuals naturally consider Oslo first), however Bergen is undoubtedly one for the bucket checklist.

The primary place you need 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 motive. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Be sure that to take the cable automotive to the highest of Mount Fløyen for wonderful views of the town. If 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 the town streets and rounded a nook to see the well-known Previous City Sq.. And the sight took our breath away. We revisited it a few years in the past, and the sensation didn’t fade.

We nonetheless suppose that the Sq. of Brussels is among the most stunning squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are a number of the finest in Europe. Horta Resort Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed within the Artwork Nouveau fashion. It’s a fully stunning metropolis crammed with historical past and allure, however it’s the metropolis sq. that places it close to the highest of our favourite of essentially the most stunning cities in Europe.

11. Bruges, Belgium

Typically, folks suppose Bruges is among 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 checklist. Fortunately, we’ve had folks write articles about Bruges for us; we did see the film “In Bruges,” to achieve additional appreciation since our go to practically 30 years in the past. Examine this out and see what you suppose!

12. Rome, Italy

Rome made the checklist of gorgeous cities to go to in Europe due to how historic ruins weave by means of fashionable structure. The Everlasting Metropolis has a mixture of previous and new, leaving Roman historical past intact. They’ve integrated the previous Roman structure into the plans of the town. Trendy buildings spring up between historic monuments, and we find it irresistible!

The whole previous metropolis middle 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 checklist. It’s one awe-inspiring sight after one other whenever you go to this European Metropolis. So add Rome to your checklist of should go to cities in Europe, you received’t be disillusioned. Lease or Purchase Roman Vacation starring Audrey Hepburn to get into your Rome journey temper.

13. Prague, Czechia

We had usually heard that Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) was a lovely 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 presents essentially the most stunning views. The Prague Fortress stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the stunning Vltava River of Jap Europe.

For those who get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you should have all of it to your self. The city sq. is among the prettiest in Europe, and when you will have all of it to your self, it’s really breathtaking. Dave and I had been amazed to see that folks didn’t actually get began till after 9:00 am, which gave us loads of time to benefit from the stunning structure and medieval church buildings in personal.

14. Istanbul, Turkey

When gazing upon the town of Istanbul from our rooftop terrace at 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 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 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 one of the best views of the town. Visiting Istanbul is a wealthy cultural expertise the place the East meets the West. It’s an infinite metropolis, but it’s straightforward to stroll and navigate.

15. London, England

Our favourite a part of London was hanging out by the river, with Tower Bridge spanning the Thames. Like most cities, one of the best points of interest of London are positioned on the water. We took water taxis and ferries, took within the metropolis’s magnificence from the river, and explored its world class museums. London has reworked up to now 20 years to change into a beautiful mixture of historic structure mixing with fashionable skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Large 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 checklist of gorgeous cities however Dublin is by far considered one of our favorite European cities. After I began compiling this, I solely considered skylines and locations that took my breath away. However after visiting Dublin a number of occasions, I spotted that it isn’t nearly a skyline of skyscrapers that makes a metropolis stunning; it’s the tradition and other people. The River Liffey snakes by means of the center of the town, and when going for a stroll, one can actually absorb its allure.

Dublin has quiet parks for getaways, castles to discover, and a very good pub scene. The extra we journey to it, the extra stunning it turns into.

17. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Dave and I visited Amsterdam earlier than our journey running a blog careers, but it surely left an impression. 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 excellent for a stroll, making it an ideal strolling metropolis. In fact, you possibly can trip a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we’ve so much in widespread with the folks of the Netherlands.

• Learn extra about Amsterdam

18. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm was considered one of our favourite cities in Scandinavia. The capital metropolis of Sweden is positioned on the Baltic Sea, and the colourful buildings of the previous city line the waterfront, taking your breath away.

What we love about Scandinavian cities is how there are amusement parks proper within the middle of the town, and Stockholm is not any exception, with its grounds on the river. This northern metropolis is linked by ferries that take guests to 14 islands. You received’t overlook your go to to Stockholm, it’s among the finest vacationer locations in northern Europe.

19. Tallinn, Estonia

We solely managed to pop over to Estonia for a day, however I’m so joyful that the town we visited was stunning, Tallinn. If you’re doing a Scandinavia tour, Tallinn is unquestionably one of many prettiest cities to go to (in northern Europe, at the very least) on the checklist.

Tallinn was stunning. We didn’t actually know what to anticipate when visiting Estonia, however it’s an thrilling nation with a really wealthy historical past. We are able to’t wait to return and see extra! With its medieval sq., excessive lookouts, and an historic wall, it has all the pieces you want to see when visiting a European Metropolis. If you’re touring by means of Scandinavia, add Estonia to your checklist.

Learn extra: 6 Should-Have Experiences If you Go to Estonia

20. Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting Iceland was a dream come true, and its capital metropolis, Reykjavik, is gorgeous. Reykjavik is among the smaller cities on our checklist, 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 checklist, Iceland was used as a filming location for Sport of Thrones. Despite the fact that Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and lots of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons had been used within the well-liked collection. We had been large Sport of Thrones followers and visited many locations world wide. Try this Sport of Thrones Tour of Northern Eire that recreates a number of the scenes shot in Iceland.

21. Barcelona, Spain

The extra we go to Barcelona, the extra we find it irresistible. At first, we weren’t followers of Gaudi’s works, however as we obtained to know his work extra, we fell in love along with his modern, colourful, and playful structure. In truth, Barcelona’s structure is so distinctive and essential that it 9 of its buildings are designated UNESCO World Heritage websites. Seven of which belong to Anotnie Gaudi himself.

With a lovely waterfront, quiet parks, downtown strolling streets, and bustling markets, Barcelona is unquestionably probably the most stunning and vibrant cities we’ve visited in Europe.

• Learn extra about Barcelona:

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 soak up the sundown and watch the gorgeous folks stroll by. Zurich has all of it, with a well-preserved previous city, numerous historic websites, and incomparable wealth. Strolling by means of the cobbled streets will take you again in time.

Certainly one of 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 terms of Christmas Markets. The town shines with lights and festivities. That is why 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 out of doors retailers. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World Battle 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 find it irresistible a lot, however it’s Europe’s hidden gem. Munich is essentially the most populous metropolis in Bavaria, and it’s a vigorous city with beer halls, a college, an expansive park, and incredible structure. Munich is a metropolis crammed with cobblestone streets which are excellent 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 middle 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 sort of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our choice to incorporate it in our checklist of essentially 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. Positioned on the Atlantic coast, the 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 slim streets and colourful homes and luxuriate in its vibrant cultural scene at considered one of its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, alternatively, is a extra fashionable neighborhood that’s recognized for its large boulevards and chic buildings. In addition to 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 street 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 elements of cities. For those who’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as stunning as they’re immediately, and the previous metropolis of Seville is not any exception.

Folks have taken observe of Seville once more because of Sport of Thrones, which used this location for the town of Mareen and areas in Dorne. It’s no marvel Seville is among the most stunning locations in Europe!

28. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki was our ultimate cease on our Scandinavian tour, and like all of the cities we visited in Northern Europe, it was stunning, too! The Helsinki Cathedral is the middle level of the town, towering over the colourful buildings that line the waterfront.

We love how Scandinavians all the time have swimming swimming pools proper within the coronary heart of the 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 checklist with out together with our favourite metropolis in Switzerland, Basel. Positioned on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the right mix of previous and new. The historical past of the Previous City blends fantastically with the up to date architectural designs all through the town. The cultural capital of Switzerland has an impressive Previous City.

Take a tour of The Altstadt (Previous Metropolis) to see the incredible Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of the town by means of its twin towers and crimson sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by means of the town middle, and there’s no higher method to soak up 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 Previous City is a very picturesque space, with its winding medieval streets and towering castles and church buildings. The Royal Mile is the oldest part of the town.

One of the vital iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Fortress, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that gives breathtaking views of the town. The fort 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 presents panoramic views of this charming metropolis.

Europe is such an enormous continent. It might be small in space, however it’s huge in inhabitants and concrete facilities. From Russia to Greece or Northern Europe’s Scandinavia international locations to Istanbul straddling two continents, there are such a lot of cities to go to in Europe it’ll take a lifetime to see all of them.

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Most European cities have finished an incredible job preserving their buildings and historical past, which performs an enormous half in figuring out the place they’re locations on this checklist. Need extra data on European Capital Cities? Try 14 Finest European Capital Cities To Go to