20 European Cities You Need to Visit at Least Once

If you’re visiting Europe for the first time, Paris is a city you can’t skip. We’ve been multiple times, and it never gets old. 

With its beautiful architecture, charming streets, and world-class museums, there’s so much to take in. Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre make it one of the most recognisable cities in the world.

Paris is home to some of the best restaurants and cosiest cafés, so if you love food, you’re in for a treat.

We highly recommend spending time in Montmartre. You’ll get stunning city views from the steps of Sacré-Cœur while exploring the area’s artistic history.

To make the most of your trip, take a half-day trip to the Palace of Versailles, just a 40-minute train ride from Paris.

You can walk through the extravagant Hall of Mirrors and wander the vast gardens there. Oh, and visit Marie Antoinette’s retreat, The Queen’s Hamlet. This life-size, storybook-like village was built for her to escape the life at court, and it was one of our favourite spots in Versailles.

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, which is why we think it’s one of the best European cities to visit, especially if it’s your first time in Europe. 

Explore the charming town square of Prague’s Old Town and Prague Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the world. The Charles Bridge is another spot you won’t want to miss (it’s one of the city’s most iconic places!).

If you’re after the perfect sunset view, head over to Letná Park. We also loved the quieter neighbourhood of Mala Strana. It’s charming and filled with history.

And don’t skip out on tasting traditional Czech cuisine. Goulash and trdelník are some of the must-tries.

Prague is full of iconic landmarks, but we also recommend checking out its lesser-known gems, like the medieval underground tunnels or the Speculum Alchemiae Museum. It’s a fascinating spot to learn about Prague’s rich history and its ties to alchemy.

3. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of those cities that surprises you with how much there is to see and do.

We’d recommend starting with Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the best views in the city. From there, head over to Fisherman’s Bastion. Its towers look like something out of a fairytale. 

Then, of course, there are the famous thermal baths. You can soak in the mineral-rich hot springs at Széchenyi or Gellért, both of which are stunning inside and out.

Oh, and you can’t leave without crossing the iconic Chain Bridge, linking Buda and Pest.

The Jewish Quarter is another must-see, with its one-of-a-kind ruin bars set in abandoned buildings. It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink in a setting you won’t find anywhere else.

And of course, don’t forget to try some local dishes like goulash and chimney cake. They’re well worth it.

For something truly impressive, tour the Hungarian Parliament Building. It’s easily one of the most impressive government buildings in the world.

4. Florence, Italy

If you’re into art, architecture, and history, Florence should definitely be on your list! The dome of Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore) is probably one of the city’s most recognisable top attractions.

The best way to experience Florence is by exploring its exceptional museums. The Uffizi Gallery is home to masterpieces by Botticelli, da Vinci, and many others. If you’re a fan of Michelangelo, the Galleria dell’Accademia is essential too, especially to see his famous statue of David.

Make sure to take a stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio, a bridge with jewellery shops and artisan stores. Basilica of Santa Croce is another spot you can’t miss. It’s the place where famous Italians like Michelangelo and Galileo are buried. 

5. London, United Kingdom

London is one of the most exciting cities in the world, and after living here for over nine years, we still find new things to love. From iconic sights like Big Ben and Tower Bridge to Buckingham Palace and London’s many hidden gems, there’s always something happening.

If you’re into food, you’re in for a treat. London’s dining scene is one of the most diverse anywhere, with Michelin-starred restaurants, buzzing street food markets, and cosy pubs serving classic Sunday roasts. You could eat somewhere different every day and barely scratch the surface.

Visiting during the winter months? London is one of the best cities to experience Christmas. The festive lights, Christmas markets, and seasonal ice rinks make it feel like a holiday movie set. Check out our London Christmas guide to see why it’s such a magical time to visit!

And if you love theatre, you can’t miss the West End. London is one of the top theatre cities in the world, right up there with Broadway in New York. From long-running classics like The Lion King to new hits like Hamilton, there’s always a great show to see.

When you need a break from the crowds, head to one of the city’s many green spaces. Hyde Park is a classic choice, but we also love Kew Gardens for a quiet afternoon.

6. Venice, Italy

Spread across 118 small islands and connected by over 400 bridges, Venice is one of the most unique cities in Europe. Walking along the canals, you’ll quickly see why it’s been a popular destination for centuries.

A gondola ride might be touristy, but it’s one of those classic Venice experiences you’ll always remember. We also love taking the vaporetto (water bus) along the Grand Canal. It’s a budget-friendly way to soak up incredible views.

St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace are absolute must-sees. The architecture is breathtaking, and the views from the top of St. Mark’s Campanile are worth the climb.

But don’t just stick to the main sights; get lost in the quieter streets of Cannaregio or stop for a spritz in Dorsoduro.

And, of course, the food. Venetian cuisine is something special, from creamy seafood risotto to cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a cosy bacaro. Grabbing a gelato and wandering along the canals is the perfect way to end the day.

7. Lisbon, Portugal

The colourful tiled buildings, steep streets, and views over the Tagus River make Lisbon one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

There’s a good mix of historic sites, stunning beaches nearby, and plenty of things to do, especially if you love history, food, or just soaking up the atmosphere.

You’ll want to hop on tram 28 at least once. It’s an easy way to see the city and saves you from climbing some of those hills. Alfama and Bairro Alto are brilliant areas to explore, with narrow alleys, local cafés, and some of the best Fado music you’ll hear.

We’d highly recommend a day trip to Sintra if you have time. Sintra is famous for its fairytale-like castle, and we ended up spending an entire day there and loved it!

8. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden, known for its beautiful mix of medieval and modern architecture, as well as its natural beauty. 

You can explore many impressive museums and galleries in Stockholm. 

Our personal favourite is the Vasa Museum, where a nearly fully intact 17th-century warship is on display. The ship, which is four stories tall and designed to accommodate a crew of 450 men, sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. 

Additionally, we highly recommend spending some time in Gamla Stan, the Old Town of Stockholm. It’s one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe.

Don’t miss the Royal Palace of Stockholm, one of the largest palaces in Europe, which is worth checking out for its grandeur and historical significance.

9. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, often called the Pearl of the Adriatic, is one of those places that feels almost too perfect to be real. We were blown away by its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, packed with baroque architecture and shiny limestone streets. 

One thing you have to do is walk the medieval city walls. We were hesitant at first because of the admission fee, but honestly, it turned out to be the best thing we did in Dubrovnik. The views over the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic are absolutely worth it. 

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll instantly recognise Dubrovnik as King’s Landing. Walking through these historic streets, it’s easy to see why filmmakers chose it as the backdrop for such an iconic setting.

10. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a beautiful city that always feels alive, no matter when you visit.

We love how you can spend the morning exploring Gaudi’s mind-blowing creations, like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, and then head straight to the beach for some sun. Barceloneta Beach is one of the best spots to unwind, and the best part? It’s just a short metro ride from the city centre.

Oh, and if you’re into food, you’ll be in heaven. From mouth-watering tapas to fresh seafood, there’s no shortage of places to grab a bite. Just be prepared to eat late: locals typically don’t have dinner before 9pm!

11. Seville, Spain

Seville is one of our favourite Spanish cities, and we’re sure it’ll become one of yours too! 

Start your trip at the iconic Setas de Sevilla, also known as the Metropol Parasol. It’s hands down our favourite spot in Seville! This impressive wooden structure offers stunning panoramic views of the city.

After that, make your way to Casa de Pilatos, a beautiful mansion full of stunning tilework.

Begin your journey at the iconic Setas de Sevilla (our favourite place in Seville!), also known as the Metropol Parasol. This impressive wooden structure offers panoramic views of the city. Then, explore Casa de Pilatos, a hidden gem filled with stunning tilework that reflects Seville’s rich history.

If you’re after a peaceful escape, head to Parque de María Luisa. In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful parks in the world. This is also where you find Plaza de España, Seville’s most famous square. 

And no trip to Seville is complete without visiting the breathtaking Catedral de Sevilla. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s third-largest church!

12. Porto, Portugal

Porto is one of those cities that completely took us by surprise. You get to sip on rich port wine while soaking up the stunning views of the Douro River and the Dom Luís I Bridge.

The historic Ribeira district, with its colourful buildings and steep streets, feels like the perfect place to just take it all in.

Something we really loved was spotting the blue ceramic tiles (or azulejos) that cover buildings across the city. They add so much character and make Porto’s historic architecture even more special. 

And if you’re a wine fan, you can’t leave without touring one of the port wine cellars. It’s such an interesting way to learn about the region’s history.

If you’re after a European weekend trip with fewer people than Lisbon but just as much charm, Porto is a great choice.

13. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a dream for culture lovers. It’s home to famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The Vienna State Opera is a must if you’re into classical music. If architecture is more your thing, you’ll love St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the grand Schönbrunn Palace.

The city’s coffee culture is legendary, and you can’t leave without stopping at a traditional coffeehouse. We always make time for a slice of Sachertorte with a proper Viennese coffee.

What really stands out is Vienna’s connection to the Habsburg Empire and Empress Sissi. Visiting the Imperial Palace (Hofburg), where she once lived, gives you a sense of what life was like in the royal court.

Vienna is also one of the world’s greenest cities, with nearly half its area dedicated to green spaces. You’ll find plenty of parks and gardens to relax in, from Stadtpark to the Schönbrunn gardens.

14. Athens, Greece

As the birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation, Athens is packed with fascinating sites!

The Acropolis is one of the city’s main attractions, and if you love history as much as we do, you’ll want to see it up close. The Parthenon and other ancient temples are stunning!

The old town area of Plaka is a great place to explore, with its charming streets, local shops, and traditional tavernas.

For a deeper look at Athens’ past, the National Archaeological Museum is a must. It’s the largest in Greece and has an incredible collection of artefacts that give you a better understanding of the city’s ancient history.

15. Valencia, Spain

Valencia doesn’t always get the same attention as Madrid or Barcelona, but honestly, that just makes it even better to visit. It’s a great place to soak up Spanish culture, with stunning architecture, sandy beaches, and the best paella you’ll ever eat.

Start in the historic centre, where you’ll find grand buildings, cobbled streets, and plenty of local cafés where you can sit back and people-watch.

Then, head over to the City of Arts and Sciences. This futuristic complex is one of the city’s most famous sights, and it’s even more impressive in person.

One of our favourite spots has to be the Turia Garden. Once a river, it’s now a vast park running through the city, making it perfect for a walk, a bike ride, or even just a quick break from sightseeing. You’ll love how peaceful it feels, even though you’re still in the middle of the city.

16. Bruges, Belgium

Although Bruges is a small city with a population of less than 120,000, it’s full of charm.

The medieval buildings, canals, and cobblestone streets make it feel like you’ve stepped straight into another era. It’s the perfect city for a weekend getaway in Europe if you’re looking for something romantic and scenic.

You definitely shouldn’t miss the iconic Markt (Market Square) while you’re there. Climb the Belfry Tower for stunning views over the city! 

Bruges is also famous for its chocolate, beer, and waffles, so treat yourself to some of the best local sweets while you’re exploring.

Don’t miss the iconic Markt (Market Square), where you can climb the Belfry Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Stroll along the canals and check out the Historium, a museum that tells the story of medieval Bruges. It gives you an insight into the city’s past. 

17. Rome, Italy

Rome is the Eternal City for a reason. History is everywhere, from the Colosseum (where gladiators once fought) to the ruins of the Roman Forum (the centre of ancient Rome).

Over in Vatican City, you’ll find St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. It’s home to some of the most famous religious and artistic sites in the world.

But Rome isn’t just about history. The Trevi Fountain is always packed, but tossing a coin over your shoulder is a fun tradition (even if it won’t make the crowds disappear). 

After a busy day, we always head to Trastevere. It’s the best spot for a relaxed evening, with lively piazzas and some of the best pasta in the capital of Italy. You’ll love strolling through the cobbled streets, finding a cosy trattoria, and soaking up the local atmosphere in Piazza Santa Maria.

And let’s be honest, no visit is complete without gelato!

18. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh’s medieval architecture and lush greenery make it one of the most iconic places in the UK. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city draws visitors with its charm, and once you’re there, it’s easy to see why.

One of the highlights of any trip is Edinburgh Castle. Sitting on top of an extinct volcano, it offers some of the city’s most breathtaking views. If you love history, this spot should be high on your list.

The Royal Mile is another highlight. This historic street stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and is full of stories from the past.

19. Berlin, Germany

Okay, let’s be honest: Berlin might not win any beauty contests. This is primarily due to World War II, which left around 80% of the city centre in ruins. But what it lacks in beauty, it makes up for in character, history, and energy.

Germany’s largest city is like a living museum, from the remnants of the Berlin Wall (which divided East and West for over 28 years) to the Brandenburg Gate.

It thrives on creativity, from street art and music to underground culture. Plus, there are plenty of parks, forests, and lakes to relax in.

If you want to understand Berlin’s complex past, we recommend checking out the Checkpoint Charlie Museum or the DDR Museum, which showcases life in the former East Germany.

Explore the lively neighbourhoods of Kreuzberg and Neukölln, and try some of Berlin’s classic street food, like currywurst, or relax in one of the city’s traditional beer gardens.

20. Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam may often get overshadowed by Amsterdam, but it’s well worth a visit. In fact, we’d say it’s a hidden gem in the Netherlands, offering a mix of modern charm and quiet beauty that’s often less crowded. 

The city is famous for its innovative architecture, and one of its most iconic spots is the Cube Houses. These tilted, colourful cubes are instantly recognisable and make for some fantastic photos.

If you’re a fan of good food, stop by Markthal, a large indoor market with over 100 food stalls and restaurants. 

One of our favourite spots in Rotterdam is the Katendrecht waterfront. The area used to be industrial, but it’s now transformed into a lively spot for dining and entertainment. 

To experience the city’s bustling port, we highly recommend a boat tour. You’ll get to see one of the busiest ports in Europe up close, which gives you a real feel for the city’s energy.

Find the Right City for You: A Quick Comparison Table by Travel Interests

FAQ: Visiting European Cities

Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about visiting Europe’s best destinations.