The world is full of beautiful and interesting towns. Many of them are in Europe. There’s a place in Europe that’s perfect for everyone, whether you love art and architecture, food and are looking for new restaurants, or you just want to see something new.

There are more than 800 places in Europe to choose from, though, so it can be hard to decide. We have been to towns in more than 50 countries because we love to travel and discover new places. This is our list of the 20 best European towns to visit.

If you live in Europe and want to find the best weekend trips, or if you want to visit Europe for the first time, these places will give you unforgettable experiences.

Most affordable European Cities to visit

It’s hard to pick the most beautiful place in Europe because there are so many great places to see.

Here is a list of our top picks for places to visit in Europe. Our list of our favorite European towns is divided into groups to help you find a place that fits your interests. These are our categories:

A list of classic European cities, coastal gems, cultural capitals, historic treasures, and modern megacities.

If you only have time for one or two places, go straight to the one you want to see.

Well-known cities in Europe

If you only have time for one or two places in Europe, go straight to the area that interests you! Also read : Inspiring Couple Travel Quotes

Cool european cities to visit

1. Paris, France

What’s different about the city? Famous buildings and museums can be found in the “City of Lights.”

A city that makes you think of love, Paris is also one of the best places to visit in Europe for the first time. You can see why: it has beautiful buildings, parks, and museums that are among the best in the world.

Some of the most well-known buildings in the world are in this city, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.

Know what I mean? The Louvre has more than 35,000 works of art, making it the world’s biggest museum in terms of space. It’s thought that seeing every single piece would take more than 100 days.

There are many cute cafes and some of the best places in the world, so foodies will be in heaven. Make sure you check out the artistic area of Montmartre. From the steps of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, you can see the city in a way that will take your breath away.

If you go to Paris, France’s biggest city, you should spend at least half a day or the whole day at the famous Palace of Versailles. A 40-minute train ride will take you there from Paris.

Explore the luxurious Halls of Mirrors and take a stroll through the large parks inside the palace. Our personal favorite is The Queen’s Hamlet, which was Marie Antoinette’s secret retreat.

2. Rome, Italy

What’s different about the city? Eternal City has art from the Renaissance, old buildings, and the Vatican City.

Rome, which is the capital of Italy, shows how the city changed from a small state to the center of a huge empire.

One of Rome’s most famous sights is the Colosseum, where gladiators used to fight. But you can see the city’s beautiful architecture and rich culture everywhere you go. The city is full of amazing landmarks, from huge buildings to beautiful squares.

Take a walk through Trastevere’s pretty streets, or throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck. Have a tasty bowl of pasta and, of course, pizza! Real pizzas cooked in wood-fired ovens are what the city is known for.

3. Vienna, Austria

What’s different about the city? Imperial grandeur, beautiful buildings, and a long history of music.

Vienna is home to famous musicians such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The city’s musical and cultural history go together well. From the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral to the Baroque Schönbrunn Palace, the city is known for its beautiful buildings. Go to a classical music concert or one of the city’s many museums to enjoy its rich culture life.

Know what I mean? Over 300 balls happen every year in Vienna, including the famous Vienna Opera Ball. The city is famous for its fancy ball season.

Vienna is also known for its love of coffee. There is no better way to get to know a city than to enjoy a delicious cup of Viennese coffee at one of the traditional coffee shops.

What really makes Vienna stand out is that it was the capital of the Habsburg Empire and was the home of Empress Sissi. We loved going to the Imperial Palace (Hofburg), which was Empress Sissi’s home, and picturing what life was like for the royal family.

Also, Vienna is one of the greenest towns in the world—nearly half of its land is made up of parks, meadows, and other wild places.

4. London, United Kingdom

What’s different about the city? A busy city with lots of historical places, world-class museums, and a lively vibe.

London is a place that everyone knows about. In London, you can see famous sites like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge, as well as top-notch art shows and museums.

We may be a little biased because we’ve lived in this beautiful big city for over nine years. We promise, though, that London’s charm goes far beyond its well-known sights.

It’s known for having some of the world’s most diverse populations, and it also has some of the best theater in the world, with shows like Hamilton and The Lion King running in the West End.

Also, London has one of the world’s most varied food scenes, making it a great place for eaters to visit. If you go to London, you’ll be able to choose from Michelin-starred restaurants, famous pubs, and a huge variety of food from around the world. Your taste buds will thank you.

Know what I mean? London is the place to go if you want to feel the magic of Christmas somewhere new! In the winter, the city shines with holiday lights, holiday cheer, and ice skating rinks. Read our guide to find out why London is a great place to spend Christmas.

You can also get away to one of the city’s beautiful parks or gardens, like Hyde Park or the Kew Gardens, when you need a break. There, you can relax in the calmness of nature.

5. Italy’s Venice

What’s different about the city? Lovely rivers, gondola rides, and one-of-a-kind buildings.

Venice is in the northeastern part of Italy. It is in a bay on the Adriatic Sea. There are more than 400 bridges and 150 rivers that connect the city’s 118 small islands. Venice is a city that is unlike any other. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been at the top of the list for first-time travelers to Europe for hundreds of years.

Go on a romantic boat ride through the city’s canals and see the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica at the same time. After that, check out the cute areas of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro. There’s also no way to fully enjoy a trip to Venice without trying traditional dishes like risotto. As you walk through the streets of this famous spot, don’t forget to try a traditional gelato!

Cheap european cities to visit

Coastal Gems

These beautiful places make for some of the best city breaks in Europe. You can relax on the beaches and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibes. 

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

What is special about the city? Beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea, clean beaches, and a lovely old town.

The city of Dubrovnik, which is on the coast of southern Croatia and is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is full of history and cultural importance. UNESCO has named the Old Town of Dubrovnik a World Heritage Site. It has beautiful streets made of limestone and classic buildings.

The city’s walls, which give beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea, are well-known. Game of Thrones fans will know Dubrovnik right away as the place where King’s Landing is set in the popular TV show.

7. Valencia, Spain

What’s different about the city? There are golden beaches, pretty parks, and a calm vibe.

We love Valencia! Many people don’t notice how beautiful it is on its own, because Madrid and Barcelona are more well-known. That being said, this city is truly beautiful! Valencia has everything you could want: beautiful buildings, delicious food, and beautiful beaches.

In Valencia’s charming historic center, you can walk through narrow streets with cobblestones and houses that are hundreds of years old.

The City of Arts and Sciences is a futuristic complex that you can’t miss. It was built by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava.

Know what I mean? Without a doubt, Valencia is where the popular dish paella got its start. This famous rice dish started out as a meal for poor people and has become a sign of Spanish food.

The Turia Garden is one of our favorite places in Valencia. Along the old bed of the Turia River, this beautiful park goes through the city and is 9 kilometers (5 miles) long. While you’re here, you can rent bikes, go for a walk, or have a picnic in the beautiful nature.

8. From Porto, Portugal

What’s different about the city? Beautiful views of the river, ancient buildings, and tasty Port wine.

Porto is a beautiful city in northern Portugal. It is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. You can enjoy a tasty port wine while taking in the stunning views of the Douro River and the famous Dom Luís I Bridge. After that, go to the historic Ribeira area to see its cute streets and bright buildings.

You can also find azulejos, which are blue clay tiles that add a charming touch to buildings all over Porto. Also, make sure you visit one of the many port wine cellars to learn about the drink’s past and how it is made. You can spend the weekend in Porto, which is a great place in Europe.

9. Lisbon, Portugal

What’s different about the city? A place where you can walk around and see colorful buildings, historic sites, and lovely beaches.

The colorful tiled buildings, hilly streets, and beautiful views of the Tagus River make Lisbon a unique city. With all of these beautiful sights, the capital of Portugal is without a doubt one of the most beautiful towns in Europe. Besides that, it has a low crime rate, which makes it a safe place to visit.

Ride the old bus number 28, see the impressive São Jorge Castle, or check out the charming neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto.

Tip: If you want to do something really different, visit the close town of Sintra. Sintra is known for its castle that looks like something from a fairy tale. We loved spending the whole day there!

Cultural Capitals

These European cities are full of history, art, and activity all the time. Get ready to be inspired by great places, beautiful buildings, and lots of people who are creative.

Great european cities to visit

10. Barcelona, Spain

What’s different about the city? Gaudi’s buildings, a lively nighttime scene, and tasty tapas.

Barcelona has something for everyone. It is known for its beautiful buildings, lively music, and tasty food. Antoni Gaudí created many of the buildings in this beautiful city, including the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.

Barceloneta Beach and the other golden beaches in Barcelona are great places to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Plus, they’re only a short train ride from the city center, where everything is busy. People who love cities should really take this trip on the weekend.

11. Greece, Athens

What’s different about the city? Historic sites like the Acropolis make it the birthplace of democracy.

Athens is the main city of Greece. It has a lot of history and myth stories. Athens is a very important place in culture because it is where democracy and Western civilization began.

The old Acropolis is a place that history buffs like us must see. The famous Parthenon and other old buildings are there. Take a walk through the Plaka neighborhood, which has lots of cute streets and coffee shops.

It is the biggest archaeological museum in Greece. To learn more about the history of this old city, you should go to the National Archaeological Museum.

There is a suggestion symbolised by a turquoise thumb pointing up with black lines around it on a gray background.

Tip: Because of climate change, Athens has had very hot summers recently, which has caused many important places to close. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy better weather, the best time to go is in the cooler months.

12 . Budapest, Hungary

What is special about the city? It has beautiful buildings, thermal baths, and a long past.

Budapest, also known as the “Pearl of the Danube,” is a great city to visit on a weekend or your first trip to Europe. The city has a rich culture scene, beautiful architecture, history, and hot springs.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Buda Castle, which has stunning views of the city, and Fisherman’s Bastion. Then, go to one of Budapest’s well-known hot baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért, and soak in the mineral-rich water for a while.

And don’t forget to cross the famous Chain Bridge, which connects Buda and Pest. Check out the Jewish Quarter for its unique ruin bars, which are bars that are built into old buildings. Enjoy delicious Hungarian foods like goulash and chimney cake.

What did you know? Budapest is a great place to go on a budget in the winter in Europe. Not only is it cheap, but it also has some of Europe’s best Christmas markets.

Finally, don’t miss the chance to see the Hungarian government Building. It is one of the most beautiful government buildings in the world.

13. Stockholm, Sweden

What’s different about the city? It has a beautiful group of islands, a creative design scene, and an old city center.

Sweden’s main city is Stockholm, which is known for its natural beauty and beautiful buildings that are a mix of old and new.

In Stockholm, you can see a lot of beautiful museums and art halls. Our favorite is the Vasa Museum, which has a battleship from the 1600s that is almost completely whole. The ship, which was built with 450 men on board and has four floors, sank on its first trip in 1628.

Know what I mean? Stockholm is known for being one of the cleanest capital towns in the world. The city puts a lot of effort into protecting the environment.

Also, you should definitely spend some time in Gamla Stan, which is Stockholm’s Old Town. The middle-age city center is one of the biggest and best-preserved in Europe.

You shouldn’t miss the Royal Palace of Stockholm, which is one of the biggest castles in Europe and is interesting to see for its history and beauty.

14. Berlin, East Germany

What’s different about the city? There is a cutting-edge art scene, a famous nightlife, and an important historical past.

Berlin is the capital city of Germany. It is a city full of wonders. It has a unique mix of old, new, and cultural things.

You can see what’s left of the Berlin Wall, which divided East and West Germany for more than 28 years and was a strong symbol of separation. After that, go to the Checkpoint Charlie Museum to learn more about the city’s long and complicated history.

Take a look at the Reichstag and the Brandenburg Gate, which are both beautiful buildings that represent unity and the city’s troubled past. You could also check out the lively areas of Kreuzberg and Neukölln. Also, don’t forget to try some of Berlin’s delicious food, like currywurst from the street or a traditional beer garden.

Take a 30-minute train ride to Potsdam to see Sanssouci Palace, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and is close to Berlin. The original purpose of this Rococo-style palace was to be a summer home for the King of Prussia. It has beautiful rooms and balconies.

Treasures from historical times

With these ancient sites in Europe, you can go back in time! Visit towns and monuments from long ago that bring history to life.

15. Florence, Italy

What’s different about the city? With well-known art and buildings that helped shape the Renaissance.

This city is a must-see for anyone interested in art, architecture, or history. What’s different about the city? With well-known art and buildings that helped shape the Renaissance.

This city is a must-see for anyone interested in art, architecture, or history. One of the most famous places in Italy is the Florence Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Brunelleschi’s dome holds high above the city.

Lots of great museums can be found in Florence. You can see great works of art by Botticelli and da Vinci at the Uffizi Gallery. The Galleria dell’Accademia is also a must-see. It has the biggest collection of Michelangelo’s works in the world, including the famous statue of David.

Cross the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge, which is lined with jewelry and art shops, to really feel Florence’s vibe. There are sculptures and grand buildings all around Piazza della Signoria that tell the story of the city’s past. It is the most beautiful place in Florence and should not be missed.

Tip: A lot of people climb the Florence Cathedral to get a view of the whole city, but we think you should go up the Arnolfo Tower instead. It’s less crowded and the views are better!

Also, don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Croce. Italian greats like Michelangelo and Galileo are buried there. You can really feel the Renaissance in Florence. Every corner of the city shows you more of its history and charm.

16. Bruges, Belgium

What’s different about the city? There are pretty rivers, buildings from the Middle Ages, and an air that feels like a fairy tale.

The Belgian city of Bruges is very pretty. It’s often called the “Venice of the North” because of its many rivers and lovely buildings. People love the city’s old town center, medieval buildings, and pretty streets.

Don’t miss the famous Markt (Market Square). You can climb the Belfry Tower to get a great view of the city.

People also love chocolate, beer, and waffles in Bruges, so make sure you try some of those while you’re there. Take a walk along the canals and check out the city’s many museums. For example, the Historium tells the story of Bruges in the Middle Ages. Bruges is a great place to spend the weekend.

Best european cities to visit in november

17. Spain, Seville

What’s different about the city? Flamenco music and dance, the stunning Alcázar castle, and cute plazas.

One of our favorite towns in Spain is Seville, which is a real gem in Europe. As you walk through its streets, you’ll be enchanted by its grand old buildings and cute plazas lined with trees.

Welcome to your trip! Start at the famous Setas de Sevilla, which is also known as the Metropol Parasol and is our favorite spot in Seville. This amazing wooden building has a view of the whole city. Then, visit Casa de Pilatos, a hidden gem with beautiful tilework that shows Seville’s long past.

One of the most beautiful parks in the world is Parque de María Luisa, where you can get away from everything and relax. The beautiful Catedral de Sevilla, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the third-largest church in the world, is another must-see in Seville.

Visit Plaza de España, which is Seville’s most famous square. It was built in the 20th century to show off the city’s many different building styles.

Practical tips: If you want to go, try to avoid the summer. Seville is one of the hottest towns in Europe and is known for having warm weather all year.

18. Edinburgh, UK

What’s different about the city? Scotland has a dramatic castle, a lot of history, and a lively fair scene.

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland. It has a lot of history and culture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its ancient buildings and lush greenery.

With its perch on top of a long-gone volcano, Edinburgh Castle is a must-see. The views of the city from it are stunning.

On your way to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, don’t forget to take a walk down the Royal Mile, a famous street. You should really go to Edinburgh. It’s one of the best towns in Europe.

Modern Metropolises

Here are the most innovative towns in Europe. Check out skylines that are full of modern buildings and a lively vibe.

19. The Netherlands, Rotterdam

What’s different about the city? It has unique buildings, top-notch attractions, and the feel of a harbor city.

Some people think of Rotterdam as being less beautiful than Amsterdam, but it has its own unique style and is much less busy. This Dutch city is famous for its unique buildings and striking skyline, which is summed up by the famous Cube Houses. One of the most recognizable landmarks in the city is the crooked, colorful cubes. They also make great photos (check out our guide for easy tips on how to take better travel pictures!).

Visit the well-known Markthal, a lively indoor market with more than 100 food stands and restaurants.

The Katendrecht waterfront, which is always changing, is another great thing we loved. Warehouses that used to be empty have been turned into lively places to eat and have fun, which adds to the city’s lively vibe. Rotterdam is a place where the old and the new go together very well, and there are interesting urban renewal projects everywhere you look.

Know what I mean? A lot of Rotterdam is below sea level, so engineers and scientists are always coming up with new ways to keep the city from flooding.

And if you want to see how busy Rotterdam’s port is, we suggest going on a boat tour. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of one of Europe’s biggest ports.

Rotterdam is still one of the best places in Europe to visit, whether it’s your first time there or just for the weekend.

20. Prague, Czech Union

What’s different about the city? Beautiful Gothic building with a modern twist, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

The city of Prague in central Europe looks like it came straight from a fairy tale. We think this makes Prague one of the best places in Europe to visit, especially if it’s your first time there.

Check out the pretty town center and the well-known Prague Castle, which is one of the world’s biggest castle complexes. Don’t forget to see the famous Charles Bridge, which has great views of the Vltava River.

Visit the lovely neighborhood of Mala Strana. Do not miss the chance to try traditional Czech food, including hearty meals like goulash and trdelník.

Practical Tips to visit Europe

• Regarding tips: The proper way to do this changes across Europe. Find out how people tip in each country you visit to avoid any awkward situations. Tipping isn’t always required and could be seen as rude in some places.
• Learn a few simple words and phrases: It takes little work to get things done. In some places, it can be helpful to know how to say hello, goodbye, thank you, and please in their own language.
• For siesta: Many businesses in Spain, Portugal, and other southern European countries stop in the middle of the day when it’s hot. Plan your activities and tours ahead of time.
• Popular sights: There will probably be a big line for the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum. If you can, buy your tickets online ahead of time or think about going when it’s not as busy. Our favorite way to book tours and sites in Europe is through GetYourGuide.
• Get eSIM: Get an eSIM instead of a real SIM card to use your phone’s data while you’re away. It’s very simple to set up, and you can stay linked without switching SIM cards. We like Ubigi eSIM the most as an eSIM service. With the code AWAY10, you can save 10% on your first internet plan. Read our review of Ubigi to find out more.
• Bring a water bottle: That you can use more than once. It’s important to stay hydrated, and many places in Europe have fountains where you can fill up your bottle instead of buying new plastic ones every time.
• Be aware of pickpockets: Watch out for your things in busy places, especially when taking the bus or train.
• Use public transportation: The public transportation services in many European cities are great and not too expensive. A lot of towns in Europe have great public transportation systems that are also reasonably priced. Learn how to use the local transport map before you go so that you can quickly find your way around on the buses, trams, and trains.
• Bring light, flexible clothes: There are a lot of cobblestone streets and public transportation, so make sure you bring comfortable shoes. Choose clothes with layers that you can mix and match to deal with different weather.
• Get maps and apps that work offline: It’s very helpful to be able to use maps and language apps even when you’re not connected to the internet. We always use Google pictures to download pictures of the places we want to visit before we go. Read our post for tips on how to use the best travel apps to see places in Europe.

Faqs on Visiting European Cities

Here are some common questions we often get about visiting the coolest and most fascinating cities in Europe.

What are the safest cities in Europe?

If you want to find Europe’s safest cities, you might want to check out Ljubljana in Slovenia, Vienna in Austria, Zurich in Switzerland, Porto in Portugal, Reykjavik in Iceland, or Copenhagen in Denmark. These cities have a reputation for being safe and are full of lively cultures.

What is the cheapest city in Europe to visit?

According to Post Office Travel Money, Vilnius in Lithuania is set to be the most affordable city in Europe in 2024. Some other wallet-friendly places to check out are Lisbon in Portugal, Athens in Greece, Budapest in Hungary, and Warsaw in Poland.

Which city in Europe is the best for a 3-day trip?

London, Rome, or Paris are all amazing picks for a 3-day European getaway, but the “best” city really comes down to what you enjoy seeing and doing! If you’ve checked out the classic cities, 

Which European city has the most to do?

According to Resonance’s 2024 report, London is the number one city in Europe for cultural experiences. There’s so much to explore, from museums and historical sites to performing arts venues and a bunch of other fun activities.

What’s the best time to visit Europe?

If you’re thinking about visiting Europe, the shoulder seasons, like April to May and September to October, are really great times to go. During these months, you can enjoy some nice weather, less hustle and bustle, and better prices.

Well, the best time to visit really depends on where you’re going and what you want to experience. If you’re planning a city trip to somewhere like Paris or Berlin, spring and autumn are perfect times to go. And if you love the beach, the summer months in Greece or Spain are just what you need!

Winter, from November to February, is a great time for enjoying festive Christmas markets and getting into some winter sports, even if it does get pretty chilly.

Last Thoughts on Europe’s Most Stunning Cities

As passionate travelers who have wandered through these amazing cities, we’ve been genuinely charmed by the unique beauty and vibrant cultural experiences that each city on this list brings to the table. But this isn’t only about our journey – it’s about inspiring yours too!

Start your own European adventure, whether it’s wandering through the lovely cobblestone streets of Bruges or taking in the stunning Acropolis in Athens. Check out this list of the best cities to visit in Europe! It’ll help you explore some of the most beautiful spots and maybe even find your own favorite among these amazing destinations.