Are you ready to explore all the hidden gems Europe hides? This continent is known for its tumultuous history and the countless number of masterpieces that bear witness to the different periods. But despite the hard times it went through, Europe is the place where you can explore the most beautiful locations that will instantly win you over with their charm. So, what better way to explore the best every country offers than by making a list of the best cities to visit in Europe?
From historic sites and art-riven cultures to modern architecture intertwined with the beauty of historic remains, Europe is all about embracing diversity and showing what it’s like to live in a multicultural society. There are about 200 languages spoken across European countries. Whichever language you speak, you will be treated to a welcoming atmosphere and ready-to-help locals in each capital.
If this sparked your attention and made you want to pack your suitcase now, stay tuned until the end of my guide to explore Europe’s famous cities. At the end, you’ll also discover suggested itineraries on how to spend one week in Europe, so buckle up; we’re taking off!
Getting around Europe
The best websites to score cheap flights are skyscanner.com and Omio.com
Where to travel in Europe?
The first step of your European trip begins with booking plane tickets. For cheaper tickets with the possibility to choose your own preferred dates for the cities to visit in Europe, don’t forget to regularly check Skyscanner. In addition, bear in mind that airlines often offer discounts around important holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween, Black Friday, New Year, etc. So, check out the offer and book the most convenient one.
And now, let’s delve deeper into exploring the best places to visit in Europe, starting with-
1. Paris, France
Did you know that Paris is one of the most filmed locations? Whether from movies, series, or other inspirations, I am sure you already have an idea of how the City of Lights looks and are eager to put it on your list of best tourist cities in Europe. So, what can you expect to come across here?
From a secret private apartment on top of the Eiffel Tower to the most famous painting of the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, which was stolen in 1911, Paris is a city of culture indeed, inviting millions of tourists to explore its museums, galleries, and streets.
Another interesting fact about the Eiffel Tower, the second tallest man-made tower: The tower is like a radio trans tower but was also used for astronomical and meteorological observations. It weighs 10,100 tons and was built with the idea to stand only temporarily and be removed after a maximum of 20 years. However, given that it was built in 1889, you can tell it quite extended its gracious stay!
Things to do
And now some suggestions for things to do:
- Eiffel Tower
- Louvre Museum
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica
- Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
How to get around
The closest airports to land in Paris are Charles de Gaulle and Beauvais-Tille Airport, and you can also come by train from Amsterdam or another nearby city.
The metro is the most effective way to travel in this city because it connects many visit-worthy places. You can buy online tickets here, with the option to purchase a ticket for 1, 3 or 7 days.
The bus lines have almost the same coverage as the metro but offer a more scenic drive. Buy tickets on the spot or here.
You can also consider getting around via RER, a hybrid suburban rapid transport system, for which you can request tickets here.
Where to stay in Paris
- Hotel Park Lane Paris (solo travellers)
- GuestReady – Lovely studio in Paris 15 minutes from Notre Dame Cathedral (couple)
- GuestReady – Luxury Apt near the Eiffel Tower (family)
2. Barcelona, Spain
Are you familiar with Gaudi’s architecture and work? And do you know that the most famous work, La Sagrada Familia, took longer to build than the pyramids? If this is enough to make you want to put Barcelona on your list of cities to visit in Europe, I’m here to tell you that your journey will be well worth it!
This historic city dates back to the 1st century when the Romans built it. It was first called Barcino, and there is evidence that bears witness to that period still hidden in the underground Roman ruins.
Besides the unusual architecture, Barcelona will also introduce you to tapas culture and one of the liveliest streets in Europe, El Raval Street. However, bear in mind there are many pickpocketers here, so pay extra attention to your belongings as you explore the city.
Did you know: The Eiffel Tower was supposed to stand in Barcelona, but the authorities then decided it would not fit the city’s vision and rejected the offer.
Things to do
- Sagrada Família
- Park Güell
- La Rambla
- Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)
- Casa Batlló and Casa Milà
- Montjuïc
How to get around
To explore one of Europe’s famous cities, land at the nearest airport El-Prat, and you can reach the centre by RENFE train.
Once you’ve arrived, use the metro to get around, as it’s most convenient. The attractions are mostly scattered around the city, so having a metro station in front of each location is a relief.
The buses are also quite a good option, and they also offer late and night lines.
Since Barcelona has been declared one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, It’s a great idea to get around by bike, as well.
If you are interested in buying transport and museum cards and getting discounts, click here.
Where to stay in Barcelona
- Calm Apartments (family)
- Reina Amalia Apartment (couple)
- H Regas Adults Only ( luxury travellers)
3. Prague, Czech Republic
It is the capital of the Czech Republic that hides the largest castle in the world, but the entire country also has the greatest number of churches on the whole globe. Prague, better known as the City of Hundred Spires, has so many attractions waiting to be explored!
You must have heard about the Astronomical Clock Tower, but I wonder if you also know the story behind its uniqueness. When it was built, it was so unique, that the then-ruler cruelly decided to gouge out the eyes of the creator Hanus Carolinum, so he could never create another such building. Although it’s connected to a tragic story, the Clock Tower is now one of the most visited attractions in Prague, one of the best cities to visit in Europe.
Interesting fact for beer lovers: In Prague, you can have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In the town where the most beer is consumed per inhabitant, you can spoil your stay with a beer spa.
Things to do
- Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
- Charles Bridge (Karlův most)
- Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
- Astronomical Clock (Pražský orloj)
- Prague Astronomical Clock Tower
How to get around
Getting to and around one of the best tourist cities in Europe has never been easier! Vaclav Havel Airport is only 17 km from the city, making everything more accessible as soon as you get there.
The most significant part of the city is its pedestrian zone, as well as the old town and the Charles Bridge area, which are best explored on foot.
The metro has three lines: A, B, and C. Look for the metro stations marked with a red M.
Trams are yet another viable transportation option, connecting you to many places around town.
Where to stay in Prague
- Theatre 9 Apartments by Adrez Living (couple)
- Union Hotel Prague (solo travellers)
- Hotel Ariston Prague (nightlife seekers)
4. Venice, Italy
Venice is sinking by 2 millimetres yearly, so don’t wait anymore to visit. There are no cars here, only gondolas and the phenomenon of Acqua Alta. If you haven’t heard about this phenomenon, it’s about flooding, usually in the main square or part of the surface of the wooden piles.
Facts in numbers: being one of the most famous cities to visit in Europe, Venice has 118 islands connected by 417 bridges, under which flow 150 canals. The largest is the Grand Canal, over which only four bridges pass. The best photo shoots are made here! Around 350 gondolas with 400 trained gondoliers run through the city, of which only 1 is a woman.
Things to do
- St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)
- Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
- Grand Canal (Canal Grande)
- Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
- Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Before you move along, consider visiting Murano and Burano, the neighbouring small islands famous for lace and decorative glass.
How to get around
The most exciting means of transport is the vaporetto, which moves on water along the central canal. The only drawback is that it could be faster. You can also use a water taxi, which is significantly slower, but the prices are usually negotiable.
One tourist ride with a gondola costs roughly 80 euros, but the experience is incomparable.
Get a Venezia Unica Card for public transport and visiting museums if you wish to explore the city as convenient as possible.
Where to stay in Venice
- Charming Palace Corte del Teatro (groups)
- Hotel Carlton Capri (family)
- La Dogaressa Guest House (couple)
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
You thought Venice had the greatest number of bridges? No, it’s still Amsterdam, with 4 times more canal bridges than Venice and 4 times more bicycles than residents. Moreover, this city has the most museums per square meter and is home to the only airport with a museum.
The Cycling capital stands out from other cities to visit in Europe due to its liberality, diversity and tolerance. You know I’m talking about the Red Light District, the laidback attitudes about specific substances, etc.
Here are a few more interesting facts: Amsterdam has the most miniature houses in Europe, the only floating market, and about 2500 boathouses. In addition, the name of the city before was Amstelerdam.
Things to do
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
- Rijksmuseum
- Anne Frank Walking Tour
- Canal Cruise
- Dam Square
How to get around
There is an airport near the city, but usually only high-budget companies fly here. In contrast, others usually land at Eindhoven, where you can later use FlixBus to arrive in the town of Heineken.
No matter your transportation preference, I kindly advise you to explore the city on foot or bike. For another alternative, you have available metro, trams and buses.
Where to stay in Amsterdam
- Boutique Apartments Amsterdam (family)
- Hotel Jansen Amsterdam Bajeskwartier ( solo travelers)
- Ruby Emma Hotel Amsterdam (solo travellers)
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia
You’ve seen Game of Thrones, Star Wars or Robin Hood. If you’ve paid attention, then I’m sure you can recognize Dubrovnik, one of the best cities to visit in Europe, there.
The city used to be known under the name Ragusa until 1808 when the town was named Dubrovnik. The first pharmacy was founded here (1317), which is still functioning, as well as the first orphanage in 1432. The city is known for its pioneering feats and the brimming history that I’m sure will surprise you.
Things to do
- Old Town (Stari Grad)
- City Walls Walk
- Stradun (Placa)
- Rector’s Palace (Knežev dvor)
- Dubrovnik Cathedral (Katedrala Uznesenja Blažene Djevice Marije)
How to get around
There’s an airport nearby, but many people arrive here by boat, as well. You don’t need transport throughout the city, so you can walk around the old town.
From other options, if you are located in the suburbs, you can use buses and taxi ride-sharing.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik
- City Center Rooms (couple)
- Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel (luxury traveller)
- Apartments Raič (design traveller)
7. Edinburgh, Scotland
This city received the title of capital in 1437, and was among the first in Europe famous cities that have a fire service that operated only within the city area.
Today, Scotland’s capital has a total of 112 parks and a castle built on an ex-volcano. It hosts the most significant art festival in the world, the Fringe Festival.
Good to know: In the zoo, you will discover only a knighted penguin. And, believe it or not, the national animal is the unicorn!
Things to do
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Mile
- Holyrood Palace
- Arthur’s Seat
- National Museum of Scotland
- Scottish National Gallery
How to get around
To get around one of the best cities to visit in Europe, use local apps; for buses, buy a Lothian Bus Card. However, it’s still more convenient to cover most of the city on foot.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
- Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge (solo travellers)
- Hampton By Hilton Edinburgh West End (family)
- Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, an IHG Hotel (design travellers)
8. Vienna, Austria
Even though most people think the famous croissant is a French invention, you’ll be surprised to learn that, in fact, it originates from Vienna, named after the Austrian word “crescent”. Apart from this pleasure, the Viennese schnitzel and the famous Saher cake come from here, as well, for which you can wait for hours in line if you want to try the original recipe.
The city of the oldest wheel in the world, Ferris, is also famous for the opera, the specific Gothic architecture, and the beautiful castles, and one of them hides the work of Gustav Klint, The Kiss. With so many attractions, it’s no wonder it found its way on my list of best cities to visit in Europe!
Vienna is for all seasons. If you come in spring, you’ll enjoy the beautiful castle gardens and Prater amusement park, and winter is reserved for Europe’s largest Christmas Market.
Things to do
- Schönbrunn Palace
- Belvedere Palace
- Vienna State Opera
- Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
- Volksgarten
- Naschmarkt
- Leopold Museum
How to get around
From the airport, get to the centre by S7 (5 euros) or CAT (15 euros).
Transportation around the city is almost perfect. You have S-Bahn, U-bahn, well-connected metro and buses at your disposal.
If you are coming as a group, you can download the Uber app and take a car for a maximum of 6 people.
Where to stay in Vienna
- BASSENA Wien Donaustadt (couple)
- ARCOTEL Donauzentrum Wien (solo traveler)
9. Rome, Italy
Do you know where the concept of a palace was first introduced? It was on the Palatine Hill in Rome before it became popular all over Europe.
Rome is the capital of 2 countries, Italy and the Vatican. For a long time, the Eternal City was the centre of all events, so from here, we know the famous proverb: All roads lead to Rome. So, don’t hesitate to visit Rome, one of Europe’s famous cities, and let the path lead you. The city is spread on 7 hills and has the most fountains in Europe. Moreover, it also hides the largest church in Europe, St. Peter Basilica.
Interesting fact: Rome and the Vatican are connected with a secret underground passage created for Pоpe.
Things to do
- Colosseum
- Palatine hill
- Eataly
- Fontana di Trevi
- St. Ignazio Church
- Vatican and St. Peter Basilica
How to get around
You have four transportation options from Rome Airport to the city centre: taxi, private transfer, bus or train. The fastest and most convenient option is taking a Fiumicino Airport taxi. You’ll pay around €50 and the journey takes around 40 minutes.
As for getting around town, you can use the metro. The Metro of Rome has three lines and reaches the city’s most important landmarks.
Moreover, you can also use the bus or tram, with the bus being the most convenient option for visitors. However, if you want to feel the city’s true charm, rent a scooter and use it to get to literally everywhere!
Where to stay in Rome
- Castel Sant Angelo Luxury Rooms and Tour (luxury)
- Hotel Artemide (couples)
- The Yellow (budget)
10. Stockholm, Sweden
This city is located on 14 islands and is Nordic Europe’s second most visited city. The world’s first open-air museum is located here, and the city has also hosted the Nobel Prize event since 1901. If add this to your list of cities to visit in Europe, you will see why it was declared one of the cleanest capitals in the world. You will enjoy meatballs with spices, boiled potatoes, and jam here if you are a gourmet.
If you want to get the locals’ love, tell them you like soccer and ice hockey; they are just crazy about these 2 sports. For children, it is interesting that one of the most striking children’s characters from books and picture books, Pippi Longstocking, comes from here.
Interesting fact: IKEA was founded in Stockholm in 1943. It is the saviour of all your home moves and DIY.
Things to do
- Vasa Museum
- Gamla Stan (Old Town)
- ABBA Museum
- Skansen Open-Air Museum
- Djurgården Island’s parks and museums
- boat tour to explore Stockholm’s beautiful archipelago.
- Moderna Museet
How to get around
The Arlanda Express train runs from Arlanda Airport to the centre.
For public transport, download the SL application. The subway, or tunnelbana, has three lines marked accordingly: green, red and blue.
You can use buses with wifi; another exciting transportation is the ferry. Board the Djurgarden ferry for an enjoyable experience of the same name.
Where to stay in Stockholm
- Best Western Plus Park City Hammarby Sjöstad (family)
- Clarion Collection Hotel Tapetfabriken (solo travellers)
- Generator Stockholm (groups)
7 days itinerary in Europe
For a smooth and stress-free trip through the best cities in Europe, I have prepared three different options for how to spend 7 days exploring Europe’s famous cities.
Version 1: Western Europe Tour
- Day 1-2: Paris, France
- Day 2-4: Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Day 5: Edinburgh, Scotland
- Day 6-7: Barcelona, Spain
Version 2: Mediterranean Delights
- Day 1-2: Rome, Italy
- Day 3-4: Venice, Italy
- Day 5-7: Barcelona, Spain
Version 3: Northern European Adventure
- Day 1-2: Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Day 3-4: Paris, France
- Day 5: Vienna, Austria
- Day 6: Prague, Czech Republic
- Day 7: Stockholm, Sweden
The Budget Estimation
Depending on the pace at which you will be moving through the best cities to visit in Europe, I can give you a rough estimate of expenses, so you can plan accordingly.
Let’s start with the flight. You can find tickets in the amount of 100-200 euros, but if you wait for a discount or travel during the week and not on the weekend, you may be lucky to buy a ticket for 100 euros.
Accommodation ranges from 70-200 euros per night for a room or suite.
For food daily, if your accommodation doesn’t have a meal offer, you will need from 10-30 euros per meal eaten in a restaurant or street food. If you choose a luxury restaurant, expect a double or triple increase in these prices.
For transportation, it is best to take 3 or 7-day tickets, which pay off much more, and a 3-day ticket through the European capitals is from 20-40 euros. One ride can cost 1.5-6 euros, depending on the city and the country’s standard.
Museums are usually included in the city maps mentioned in the How to Get Around section. The average entrance fee for a museum or gallery ranges from 10-25 euros.
That would be the initial cost. For more detailed information about the exact city, contact me anytime.
Where to stay/sleep when travelling in Europe?
You have already chosen the destination, bought the flight ticket, and now you must find accommodation. Search for accommodation to your liking on Booking.
Packing list for one week in Europe
The packing list varies depending on the checked baggage and the time of year. But you must not forget some essential things:
- Versatile Wardrobe
- Universal Power Adapter
- Compact Toiletries Kit
- Multi-Currency Wallet
- Lightweight Daypack
- Portable Water Bottle
- Travel Documents Organizer
FAQs
Are the budget estimations provided in the article accurate for all travelers?
The budget estimations provided are meant to give a rough idea of potential expenses for travelers exploring European cities. However, actual costs can vary based on factors such as travel dates, accommodation choices, dining preferences, and individual spending habits. It's advisable for travelers to research current prices and factor in personal preferences when budgeting for their trip.
How reliable are the transportation options mentioned in the article for getting around the cities?
The transportation options listed, such as metro systems, buses, and trains, are commonly used methods for navigating European cities and are generally reliable. However, travelers should check for any updates or disruptions to services, especially during holidays or weekends when schedules may vary. Additionally, it's recommended to purchase transportation tickets from official sources or authorized vendors to avoid any issues.
Are the recommended accommodations in the article suitable for all types of travelers?
The recommended accommodations provided in the article cater to various traveler preferences, including solo travelers, couples, families, and luxury seekers. However, individual preferences, budgets, and specific needs may vary, so it's advisable for travelers to research and choose accommodations that best suit their requirements. Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb offer a wide range of options to accommodate different preferences and budgets.
How feasible are the suggested 7-day itineraries for exploring multiple cities in Europe?
The suggested 7-day itineraries offer a glimpse into the possibilities of exploring multiple cities within a limited timeframe. While it's certainly possible to visit these cities within a week, travelers should consider factors such as travel time between destinations, sightseeing preferences, and personal pace. Some travelers may prefer a more leisurely approach with fewer cities visited, while others may enjoy a faster-paced itinerary. It's essential to tailor the itinerary to individual preferences and priorities for a fulfilling travel experience.
Map
Let’s explore the map together, where we’ve highlighted the finest hotels and accommodations for your convenience.
Embark on your trip-planning journey with our map, featuring a curated selection of top-notch hotels and accommodations. We believe this map will be a valuable tool to enhance your travel planning experience.
Summary: Top 10 Cities to Visit in Europe
You can unbuckle your seat belts. We have landed at your destination. Now you have this guide to cities to visit in Europe. To get more information, check out my blogs for each city separately. And of course, contact me for more specific advice.
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Travel Europe Smarter in 2024
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