25 Best Cities
to Visit in Europe

History, art, and culture blend together seamlessly in this city that sparkles every season. From strolling the halls of the Louvre to the lawn of the world-famous Eiffel Tower, the city of Paris has something for everyone. Take your time for lunch at a Parisian bistro, spend your evenings in buzzing Montmartre, and take in a cabaret at the famous Moulin Rouge. The best way to experience Paris is to plan wisely and explore the city’s main attractions with local experts.

London is a city that never stops reinventing itself, where centuries of royal tradition meet a vibrant modern pulse. The grandeur of Buckingham Palace and the chimes of Big Ben feel timeless yet just steps away you’ll find the buzz of Oxford Street, the ritual of tea at Harrods, and the creative spark of Abbey Road. Every visit reveals something new—yet it’s always, unmistakably, London.

It has been said that if you see just one city in Italy, perhaps even one city in Europe, make it Rome. With ancient treasures such as the Pantheon, Colosseum, and famed Trevi Fountain, there’s almost more to see and do here than a single trip will allow. In addition to the Roman Forum and the Vatican, you’ll also want to leave time to explore modern Rome through its outdoor markets and restaurants. Undoubtedly, Rome is one of the best places to visit in Europe.

Barcelona has a way of pulling you in — from breezy Mediterranean beaches to views that stretch from hilltops across the city. Gaudí’s Sagrada Família still stops visitors in their tracks, while the buzz of La Rambla and the colors of the Boqueria market keep the streets alive. And of course, no visit is complete without lingering over tapas, one plate at a time.

Amsterdam has a way of drawing you in slowly with the curve of its canals, the steady stream of cyclists, and the hum of cafés spilling onto cobbled streets. Spend a morning wandering through the quiet galleries of the Rijksmuseum or standing in front of a Van Gogh canvas, then cross the city to the Anne Frank House for a moment of reflection. Along the way, pause for a Dutch pancake or two, and let the easy rhythm of the city set the pace.

Known for its chic Bohemian attitude, Prague entices travelers with its unique cultural offerings and mixture of historic and modern sites. For a taste of local living, stop by one of the city’s cozy locales; most of the best pubs are hosted in cellars where you’re sure to find a vibrant nightlife year-round. Prague is also a popular destination for its general affordability and ease of accessibility to top sites.

When traveling to this Alpine gem, prepare for an immersion into food, art, music, and culture. Austria’s largest city features a former royal residence as well as several modern coffee shops. According to UNESCO, drinking espresso in Vienna is an official cultural pastime! That means you’ll want to carve out time to rub elbows with the locals over a cup of hot coffee. And when it comes to the best views in town, Vienna’s architecture gives the surrounding mountains a run for their money.

Lose yourself in Turkey’s most populous city as you soak in the timeless history of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market in the square, or enjoy a local brew in one of the city’s many taverns. Istanbul is famed for its many open-air markets with open haggling for the best price. Of course, there are many other cultural sites you’ll want to see, including the Galata Bridge and the famous Blue Mosque.

While much of Italy is synonymous with romance, Venice offers the ultimate romantic getaway. The city welcomes visitors with its meandering streets, crooning gondoliers, and ancient historical sites. For a typical Venetian experience, stop by the ever-populous Grand Canal before enjoying a gondola ride through the city’s side canals. You also don’t want to miss a performance at the famed opera house, a trip through Doge’s Palace, and a chance to observe the local art of glassblowing.

Did you know that Guinness beer tastes better in Dublin? Of course, there’s much more to do in the Emerald Isle’s most popular city. Highlights not to miss include St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, the National Museum of Ireland, and Dublin Castle. A vibrant shopping scene offers the chance to shop for souvenirs while taking in Dublin’s traditional folk music, literary influence, and traditional dance.

A city that always feels on the edge of something exciting, Berlin is steeped in a rich history that is both romantic, modern, and controversial. While here, you can visit the remains of the Berlin Wall, now covered in street art, or the official Weltzeituhr world clock. Or stop by the old stomping grounds of Napoleon and Beethoven for a traditional meal at the 16th century “Zur Letzten Instanz” restaurant, a traveler's favorite.

Often dubbed the cradle of Western civilization, Athens was arguably the most influential city of ancient times. The home of Greek mythology is beloved by travelers for its history and epic cultural offerings. Ancient ruins dot the capital city, including the 5th-century Acropolis with the Parthenon temple, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Ancient Agora. Nestled in and among the ruins, the modern city offers a treasure trove of culinary and cultural delights sure to please.

Edinburgh weaves history and culture into every corner. Once Scotland’s medieval capital, it conjures visions of kings, castles, and timeless traditions. Today, it’s the UK’s second most-visited city, blending historic charm with vibrant arts, music, theater, and cuisine. A sip of Scotch whisky, paired with hearty local fare, completes the experience. With sweeping panoramas, centuries-old architecture, and contemporary culture, Edinburgh truly has it all.

Spain’s elegant capital is best known for its artistic treasures, from the Egyptian Temple of Debod, which was donated to Spain in 1968, to the great bear statue located in the central Puerta Del Sol. Take in the city’s neo-Gothic architecture and don’t miss a visit to the expansive Royal Palace. Madrid is unlike any other city in Spain and is not to be missed.

Perhaps not the first city that comes to mind when you think about the great architectural capitals of Europe, but Budapest is home to some of the world’s greatest examples of Art Nouveau. Experience the grandeur of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you walk across the famed Danube River. The Central Market, Heroes’ Square & Statue Park, and St. Stephen’s Basilica are attractions not to miss on a visit to Budapest.

Porto’s historical roots are still alive, and the city provides an excellent snapshot of traditional Portuguese culture. The historic center of the city, the Ribeira district, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ribeira’s colorful buildings, shops, and taverns line the riverfront, and it’s a perfect spot to spend an afternoon. World-famous contemporary architecture, like the Casa da Música, offers a cutting-edge complement to Porto’s old-world charm.

Framed by the turquoise Adriatic and encircled by medieval stone walls, this Croatian gem balances centuries of history with sun-drenched vitality. Climb the ramparts for sweeping coastal views, slip into hidden alleyways lined with cafés, or set sail to nearby islands for a taste of Mediterranean freedom. Here, the drama of the past and the joy of the present meet in perfect harmony.

Florence is often called the cradle of the Renaissance, and it doesn’t take long to see why. Masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli fill the galleries, the Duomo’s magnificent dome dominates the skyline, and the Ponte Vecchio still bustles with jewelers as it has for centuries. Yet beyond the art and history, the city’s real charm lies in its rhythm, where beauty feels effortless, and every corner invites you to linger just a little longer.

If you see just one city in Sweden, make it Stockholm. The cultural, political, and economic center of the country, the city is one of the most beautiful capitals in all of Europe. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and beautiful waterfront in the medieval city center, or hop a boat and explore the surrounding 14 islands that comprise the archipelago. Don’t miss the renowned Nobel Museum and fascinating Vasa Museum, which houses an intact 16th-century ship recovered from the ocean floor.

The city built on canals is known for offering some of the best culinary experiences in Europe’s Nordic countries. The city is famously progressive and noted for its dedication to being superbly pedestrian and cyclist-friendly. Danes are regularly ranked among the “happiest” people in the world, which could be due in part to the significant emphasis on “comfort” as a lifestyle.

Often dubbed the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland is a geological wonder. Reykjavik is known for its active nightlife and music scene, as well as the milky blue-colored geothermal hot springs, “The Blue Lagoon.” Venture outside the city to see some of Europe’s most incredible natural wonders, including hundreds of waterfalls and volcanoes. Reykjavik remains temperate year-round and is a delightful destination any time of year. Travelers who wish to see the Northern Lights will want to plan a visit in winter.

Lucerne could be pulled straight from the pages of a fairytale. The flower-draped Chapel Bridge, the painted facades of the Old Town, and the glassy lake framed by snowcapped peaks all add to its timeless charm. Drift across the water on a boat cruise or ride the cogwheel train up Mt. Pilatus and watch the world unfold beneath you — views that linger long after you’ve left.

Few places capture Spain’s energy like this Andalusian capital, where passion pulses through every square and courtyard. Golden palaces shimmer in the sunlight, horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past Gothic cathedrals, and the air is heavy with the scent of orange blossoms. By night, the city transforms where flamenco rhythms spill from taverns, tapas are shared until late, and Seville proves it was made to be experienced, not just seen.

What if a city could feel like both a symphony and a storybook? Nestled between Alpine peaks and crowned by a fortress, Salzburg strikes that perfect chord. Its baroque streets echo with Mozart’s genius, while gardens and cozy cafés invite slower moments of wonder. Whether you’re humming a tune from The Sound of Music or gazing at snow-dusted spires, this is a place where history and beauty compose an unforgettable harmony.

Munich is Bavaria at its best, sophisticated yet full of zest. Discover royal palaces, world-class museums, and leafy parks, then join locals in beer gardens for a true taste of tradition. From Oktoberfest festivities to fairy-tale day trips, Munich is a city that celebrates life year-round.