30 Most Stunning Cities in Europe That We have Seen

We’ve compiled our listing of essentially the most stunning cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This listing will not be another person’s opinion; these are the very best European cities that we’ve got personally visited in actual life. We’ve seen and skilled all of those cities firsthand, and if you see them, you may click on via to learn extra in-depth guides. So get able to allow us to enable you to select the very best metropolis so as to add to your European journey itinerary.

We most definitely haven’t seen all of Europe, however we’ve got 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 received 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 house to plenty of charming islands, together with the island of Lokrum, which is house to a stunning botanical backyard and a monastery that dates again to the twelfth century.

One of many most important issues that make Dubrovnik so stunning is its Outdated City, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site that’s surrounded by a medieval wall that was constructed within the thirteenth century.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 Recreation of Thrones.

2. Porto, Portugal

Positioned in Northern Portugal, Porto has skyrocketed to the highest of individuals’s listing of cities to see after they go to Europe. The Medieval structure of Porto is what stands out on this pretty metropolis on the Douro River. This coastal metropolis has golden seashores by the ocean and grand boulevards alongside the river. Porto has reworked through the years to turn into our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. At the moment, it is usually probably the most visited cities in Portugal. When visiting Porto, stroll via its previous city, starting on the banks of the River Douro. Stroll its charming streets looking for 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 neglect to take the funicular up for panoramic views.

3. Paris, France

Paris is commonly thought-about probably the most stunning cities on this planet. It’s undoubtedly on the prime as a romantic metropolis, and we will’t assist however fall in love with it each time we go to time and again. It might appear cliché, however it can 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. Regardless of what number of different cities we see, we nonetheless return to the Metropolis of Lights and gaze upon it with marvel and awe. We by no means tire of seeing totally different views of the Eiffel Tower, and going up for a champagne toast is one for the bucket listing.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen holds a particular place in our hearts. This enchanting metropolis is a deal with to discover. With Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, The Little Mermaid, and an infinite stream of canals, Copenhagen undoubtedly deserves to be named one among 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 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 vibrant colours.

To see extra of Copenhagen, try:

5. Venice, Italy

Venice is without doubt 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 improbable 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 shortly grew to become one among our favourite cities to go to in Europe. We might watch cruise strains and bus excursions are available for a day and zip proper again out earlier than they’d an opportunity to actually discover Venice. Taking boat journeys via 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 house to among the most well-known historic 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 lots of locations to soak up views of the town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. Among the finest locations, although, is to take the cable automobile as much as Lybitacus Hill. Be certain that to remain within the metropolis heart to have the ability to stroll to all the common vacationer sights. It’s probably the most 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

Positioned 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 fantastic 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 actually 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 actually a metropolis of artwork and probably the most stunning cities to go to in Europe. With each flip, you’ll run into sculptures or intricate etchings within the structure. It’s a metropolis the place you may stroll slowly via its cobbled streets whereas having fun with every constructing you lay eyes upon. Recognized 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 site 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 expect Bergen, Norway, is without doubt one of the most stunning cities in Europe as a consequence of its pure magnificence. Surrounded by mountains, it’s genuinely picture-perfect. The historic Bryggen Space makes for a picturesque waterfront. It might not be the obvious Norwegian metropolis to go to in Europe (most individuals naturally consider Oslo first), however Bergen is undoubtedly one for the bucket listing.

The primary place 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 Web site with good cause. Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains, picture-perfect views and old-world structure. Be certain that to take the cable automobile to the highest of Mount Fløyen for superb views of the town. Whenever you see Bergen, you’ll agree that it could be one of many prettiest cities in Europe.

10. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels was one of many first European cities we’ve ever visited, and I’ll always remember the sensation we had once we lastly discovered the sq.. We had been strolling the town streets and rounded a nook to see the well-known 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 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 essentially the most stunning cities in Europe.

11. Bruges, Belgium

Typically, folks assume Bruges is without doubt one of the most stunning European cities. We visited Bruges in 1996 and actually can’t bear 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 got had folks write articles about Bruges for us; we did see the film “In Bruges,” to achieve additional appreciation since our go to almost 30 years in the past. Verify this out and see what you assume!

12. Rome, Italy

Rome made the listing of gorgeous cities to go to in Europe due to how historic ruins weave via 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 adore it!

Your entire previous metropolis heart of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. 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 if you go to this European Metropolis. So add Rome to your listing of should go to cities in Europe, you gained’t be disenchanted. 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 wonderful metropolis in Europe, and once we first laid eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint. Sure, it’s busy and crowded, however when you step out of the primary path, you’ll discover quiet spots to seize a chew or an inexpensive pint. Like several metropolis in Europe, the river affords essentially the most stunning views. The Prague Fort stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the stunning Vltava River of Japanese Europe.

When you get up early and stroll across the metropolis, you should have all of it to your self. The city sq. is without doubt one of the prettiest in Europe, and when you will have all of it to your self, it’s actually breathtaking. Dave and I had been amazed to see that folks didn’t actually get began till after 9:00 am, which gave us loads of time to benefit from the stunning structure and medieval church buildings in personal.

14. Istanbul, Turkey

When gazing upon the town of Istanbul from our rooftop terrace at 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 is usually Europe’s largest metropolis. It’s the Japanese affect that makes this metropolis so stunning.

Mosques dot the cityscape as spires peek out from above the skyline. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia don’t disappoint, and the Outdated Metropolis is the right place to get misplaced in time. Take a stroll via the Grand Baazar or go as much as the highest of Galata Tower for the very best 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.

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 very best sights 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 turn into a beautiful mixture of historic structure mixing with fashionable skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Massive Ben and the Tower of London to the London Eye to The Shard and The Gherkin, London has probably the most eclectic skylines in Europe, and it’s stunning. Do you agree?

16. Dublin, Eire

It took me some time so as to add Dublin to my listing of gorgeous cities however Dublin is by far 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 instances, I noticed that it isn’t nearly a skyline of skyscrapers that makes a metropolis stunning; it’s the tradition and other people. The River Liffey snakes via the center 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 stunning it turns into.

17. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Dave and I visited Amsterdam earlier than our journey running a blog careers, however it left an impression. Often called 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. After all, you may experience a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, we’ve got loads in frequent with the folks of the Netherlands.

Learn extra about Amsterdam

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 linked by ferries that take guests to 14 islands. You gained’t neglect 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 comfortable that the town we visited was stunning, Tallinn. In case you are doing a Scandinavia tour, Tallinn is unquestionably 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 will’t wait to return and see extra! With its medieval sq., excessive lookouts, and an historic wall, it has the whole lot it is advisable see when visiting a European Metropolis. In case you are touring via Scandinavia, add Estonia to your listing.

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

20. Reykjavik, Iceland

Visiting Iceland was a dream come true, and its capital metropolis, Reykjavik, is gorgeous. Reykjavik is without doubt one of the smaller cities on our listing, however it packs a punch. Like a lot of Europe’s stunning cities, Reykjavik has colourful buildings lining the waterfront, pedestrian avenues, and plenty of buying, 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 Recreation of Thrones. Though Reykjavik wasn’t used, the crew stayed right here, and most of the surrounding nationwide parks, glaciers, and lagoons had been used within the common sequence. We had been enormous Recreation of Thrones followers and visited many locations world wide. Try this Recreation 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 adore it. At first, we weren’t followers of Gaudi’s works, however as we received to know his work extra, we fell in love together with his progressive, colourful, and playful structure. In reality, Barcelona’s structure is so distinctive and necessary that it 9 of its buildings are designated UNESCO World Heritage websites. Seven of which belong to Anotnie Gaudi himself.

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

One in every of our favourite issues to do in Zurich was to see it from above. Take the Felsenegg cable automobile as much as 803 meters above sea degree for breathtaking views of the town.

23. Vienna, Austria

We visited Vienna, Austria throughout the vacation season, and it’s second to none in relation to Christmas Markets. The town shines with lights and festivities. Because of this 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 whilst you browse the strolling streets and outside retailers. Vienna’s opera home was rebuilt after World Struggle II and is taken into account probably the most glamorous on this planet.

24. Munich, Germany

Germany’s Bavaria shocked us. We didn’t count on to adore it 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 improbable structure. Munich is a metropolis full of cobblestone streets which can be excellent 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 Web site and the political heart of Switzerland. It’s also 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 buying nice in any sort of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our determination to incorporate it in our listing 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 house 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 slender streets and colourful homes and luxuriate in its vibrant cultural scene at one among its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, then again, is a extra fashionable neighborhood that’s recognized for its broad boulevards and stylish buildings. In addition to its historic landmarks, Lisbon can also be house to plenty of fashionable constructions, such because the Vasco da Gama Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Europe.

27. Seville, Spain

We popped into Seville on a highway journey via Spain and Italy years in the past and we wished we had stayed longer! One thing we love about European cities is how they don’t change the historic elements of cities. When you’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as stunning as they’re right this moment, and the previous metropolis of Seville is not any exception.

Folks have taken notice of Seville once more because of Recreation of Thrones, which used this location for the town of Mareen and places in Dorne. It’s no marvel Seville is without doubt one of 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, buying, 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. Positioned 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 improbable Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of the town via its twin towers and pink sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts via the town heart, 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 appropriately; one of many prime 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 encompassing 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.

Probably the most iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Fort, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that provides breathtaking views of the town. The fort is house 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 might 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.

Get pleasure from searching these stunning cities?  Save this text to Pinterest for future journey planning.

Most European cities have achieved an incredible 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? Try 14 Finest European Capital Cities To Go to