30 Most Stunning Cities in Europe That We have Seen

We’ve compiled our record of probably the most stunning cities in Europe from years of visiting the continent. This record shouldn’t be another person’s opinion; these are the very best European cities that now we have personally visited in actual life. We’ve seen and skilled all of those cities firsthand, and once you see them, you may click on by way of 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.

beautiful cities in europe venice gondolas
One of the vital stunning cities in Europe is Venice, Italy

We most definitely haven’t seen all of Europe, however now we have been to most of them. We selected these cities for his or her beautiful structure and interesting historical past. If you’re in search of historic websites, a vibrant nightlife scene, and even beautiful seashores, we’ve acquired you coated.

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 really stunning place to go to. The town can also be residence to a variety 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One of many important issues that make Dubrovnik so stunning is its Outdated City, a UNESCO World Heritage Website that’s surrounded by a medieval wall that was constructed within the thirteenth century.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. 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

beautiful cities in europe porto

Situated in Northern Portugal, Porto has skyrocketed to the highest of individuals’s record of cities to see once they go to Europe. The Medieval structure of Porto is what stands out on this beautiful 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 grow to be our favourite romantic metropolis in Europe. In the present day, it’s also one of the crucial visited cities in Portugal. When visiting Porto, stroll by way of its previous city, starting on the banks of the River Douro. Stroll its charming streets in the hunt for 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

beautiful cities to visit in europe paris eiffel tower

Paris is commonly thought of one of the crucial stunning cities on this planet. It’s undoubtedly on the prime 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 should 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 usually. 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 totally different views of the Eiffel Tower, and going up for a champagne toast is one for the bucket record.

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe - 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 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 Outdated City and is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen. Seventeenth-century townhouses line the canal stuffed with historic sailboats. What makes these townhouses so distinctive is that they’re painted in vivid colours.

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5. Venice, Italy

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe - Venice, Italy

Venice is likely one of the greatest European cities to go to if you happen to don’t go on a cruise. Touring independently and staying in a single day within the metropolis is a incredible expertise. Though it’s identified 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 that they had an opportunity to essentially 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 residence to a number of the most well-known historical ruins on this planet, together with the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and The Historical Agora. Nothing is extra breathtaking than sitting at a rooftop bar at Monastiraki Sq., trying on the Acropolis standing proudly over town.

There are lots of locations to absorb views of town, with rooftop bars, and patios throughout Athens. The most effective locations, although, is to take the cable automotive as much as Lybitacus Hill. Be certain to remain within the metropolis middle to have the ability to stroll to all the in style vacationer points of interest. It’s one of the crucial 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

Most beautiful Cities in Europe - 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 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 buildings dominate the Hungarian Capital and shines at night time because the Széchenyi Chain Bridge displays in its waters, making for a magical scene. Budapest at night time is really one of many prettiest cities in Europe. Budapest is understood for its thermal baths and break bars. These two vacationer locations are what make Budapest so distinctive.

8. Florence, Italy

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe Florence
Florence, Italy, is a metropolis of Artwork

Florence is really a metropolis of artwork and one of the crucial 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 by way of 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 middle, and infinite streets free from site 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

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe 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 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 record.

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 cause. 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 town. Whenever you see Bergen, you’ll agree that it might be one of many prettiest cities in Europe.

10. Brussels, Belgium

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe  Brussels
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 once we lastly discovered the sq.. We had been strolling 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 likely one of the most stunning squares in Europe. Its artwork nouveau buildings are a number of the greatest in Europe. Horta Resort Tassa was the primary European constructing constructed within the Artwork Nouveau fashion. It’s a fully stunning metropolis stuffed with 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

beautiful cities in europe bruges belgium

Typically, individuals assume Bruges is likely one of the most stunning European cities. We visited Bruges in 1996 and truthfully 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 record. Fortunately, now we 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. Examine this out and see what you assume!

12. Rome, Italy

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe Rome

Rome made the record of lovely cities to go to in Europe due to how historical ruins weave by way of trendy 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 town. Fashionable buildings spring up between historical monuments, and we find it irresistible!

All the 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 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 gained’t be disillusioned. Rent or Buy Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn to get into your Rome journey temper.

13. Prague, Czechia

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe Prague czech republic
We actually fell in love with Prague. Such an exquisite metropolis.

We had typically heard that Prague, Czech Republic (Czechia) was an exquisite metropolis in Europe, and once we first laid eyes on her, she didn’t disappoint. Sure, it’s busy and crowded, however if you happen to step out of the primary path, you’ll discover quiet spots to seize a chunk or an inexpensive pint. Like all metropolis in Europe, the river affords probably the most stunning views. The Prague Fortress stands proud overhead because the Charles Bridge spans the stunning Vltava River of Jap Europe.

If you happen to 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 might 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 non-public.

14. Istanbul, Turkey

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe Istanbul
Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia is such an exquisite metropolis

When gazing upon town of Istanbul from our rooftop terrace at night time, it’s set afire with mild. 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 Outdated 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 very best 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

beautiful cities in Europe london tower brige

Our favourite a part of London was hanging out by the river, with Tower Bridge spanning the Thames. Like most cities, the very best 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 grow to be a beautiful mixture of historic structure mixing with trendy skyscrapers. With Iconic Landmarks from Massive Ben and the Tower of London to the London Eye to The Shard and The Gherkin, London has one of the crucial eclectic skylines in Europe, and it’s stunning. Do you agree?

16. Dublin, Eire

prettiest cities in europe dublin

It took me some time so as to add Dublin to my record of lovely 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

prettiest cities in europe amsterdam

Dave and I visited Amsterdam earlier than our journey running a blog careers, nevertheless it 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. After all, you may experience a bicycle too! We really feel a kinship with Amsterdam’s Liberal values. Being Canadian, now we have lots in frequent with the individuals of the Netherlands.

  • Learn extra about Amsterdam

18. Stockholm, Sweden

sweden travel guide

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 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 town, and Stockholm isn’t any exception, with its grounds on the river. This northern metropolis is related 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

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe Tallin

We solely managed to pop over to Estonia for a day, however I’m so glad that 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, 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 little thing you should see when visiting a European Metropolis. If you’re touring by way of Scandinavia, add Estonia to your record.

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

20. Reykjavik, Iceland

Top things to do in 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 record, nevertheless it packs a punch. Like a lot of Europe’s stunning cities, Reykjavik has colourful buildings lining the waterfront, pedestrian avenues, and plenty of procuring, 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. 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 in style sequence. We had been big Sport of Thrones followers and visited many locations all over the world. Try this Sport of Thrones Tour of Northern Eire that recreates a number of the scenes shot in Iceland.

21. Barcelona, Spain

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe Barcelona
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 acquired to know his work extra, we fell in love together with his modern, colourful, and playful structure. In truth, Barcelona’s structure is so distinctive and vital that it 9 of its buildings are designated UNESCO World Heritage websites. Seven of which belong to Anotnie Gaudi himself.

With an exquisite waterfront, quiet parks, downtown strolling streets, and bustling markets, Barcelona is unquestionably one of the crucial stunning and vibrant cities we’ve visited in Europe.

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22. Zurich Switzerland

beautiful cities in europe 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 attractive individuals stroll by. Zurich has all of it, with a well-preserved previous city, numerous historic websites, and incomparable wealth. Strolling by way 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 town.

23. Vienna, Austria

best christmas getaway vienna lights

We visited Vienna, Austria through the vacation season, and it’s second to none on the subject of Christmas Markets. The town shines with lights and festivities. For this reason Vienna is known as one of the crucial 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 one of the crucial glamorous on this planet.

24. Munich, Germany

beautiful cities in europe munich germany

Germany’s Bavaria shocked us. We didn’t count on to find it irresistible a lot, however it’s Europe’s hidden gem. Munich is probably the most populous metropolis in Bavaria, and it’s a energetic city with beer halls, a college, an expansive park, and incredible structure. Munich is a metropolis stuffed with cobblestone streets which can be good for strolling within the Outdated City, and the picturesque squares make it straightforward to discover on foot or by bicycle.

25. Bern, Switzerland

Most Beautiful Cities in Europe Bern, Switzerland

Bern, Switzerland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Website and the political middle 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 coated, making procuring nice in any sort of climate. Seeing Bern from the Aare River reinforces our choice to incorporate it in our record of probably the most stunning cities we’ve ever visited.

26. Lisbon, Portugal

best cities to visit in europe 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 residence 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 luxuriate in its vibrant cultural scene at one in all its Fado Bars. The Baixa neighborhood, alternatively, is a extra trendy neighborhood that’s identified for its broad boulevards and stylish buildings. Apart from its historic landmarks, Lisbon can also be residence to a variety of trendy constructions, such because the Vasco da Gama Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Europe.

27. Seville, Spain

beautiful cities in europe seville

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. If you happen to’ve visited them earlier than, they’re simply as stunning as they’re at present, and the previous metropolis of Seville isn’t any exception.

Folks have taken word of Seville once more due to 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

cities in europe helsinki

Helsinki was our closing 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 outstanding swimming gap on the canal. The water is so clear! Like so many cities we love, there are strolling streets, procuring, and loads of bistros and cafes.

29. Basel Switzerland

beautiful cities to visit in europe basel switzerland
Beaufitul Basel Switzerland

Switzerland has one stunning metropolis after one other and we couldn’t finish our stunning cities in Europe record with out together with our favourite metropolis in Switzerland, Basel. Situated on the Rhine River, Basel, it has the proper mix of previous and new. The historical past of the Outdated City blends superbly with the up to date architectural designs all through town. The cultural capital of Switzerland has a powerful Outdated City.

Take a tour of The Altstadt (Outdated Metropolis) to see the incredible Basel Munster Cathedral, which captures the soul of town by way of its twin towers and pink sandstone partitions. The Rhine River cuts by way of town middle, and there’s no higher manner to absorb the views of 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

beautiful cities to visit in europe edinbrugh

Edinburgh is constructed atop a sequence 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 town.

One of the vital iconic landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Fortress, a medieval fortress perched atop a volcanic rock that provides breathtaking views of 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 should take a lifetime to see all of them.

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beautiful cities in europe
The Most Stunning Cities in Europe

Most European cities have finished 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 data on European Capital Cities? Try 14 Finest European Capital Cities To Go to