Europe, a continent teeming with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, offers some of the best cities to visit in Europe for any travel enthusiast. Whether it's the enchanting canals of Venice, the romantic streets of Paris, or the vibrant energy of Barcelona, each city provides a unique experience. Among the best cities to visit in Europe, Amsterdam stands out with its picturesque canals and rich history, while Prague, with its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere, never fails to captivate. Berlin, a hub of history and modern culture, offers a different flavor of adventure.
Best Cities to visit in Europe
Then there's Rome, a city where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly, making it one of the best cities to visit in Europe. Don't miss out on the Nordic charm of Copenhagen, a city renowned for its design and quality of life. Each of these destinations contributes to the continent's reputation, ensuring they are among the best cities to visit in Europe.
1. Rome
Not many places can rival Rome for historical prowess. The Eternal City has it all: iconic ruins like the Colosseum and the well-preserved Pantheon; big-name landmarks like the baroque Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps; And richly decorated churches to explore. And then there's its art scene, which takes you from the Renaissance (via Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel) to modernism at the MAXXI Museum.
But the joy of traveling to Rome is not rushing through trying to see all the major sights. It's about tasting local specialties in a trattoria, sipping an aperitivo and people-watching at a buzzing bar, strolling leisurely with a gelato in hand and trawling its hip shops for souvenirs.
- Flight time: Two hours 30 minutes
- Price of a pint: 5 euros (£4.28)
2. Istanbul
The Bosphorus strait marks the divide between two continents in Istanbul, the capital of Turkey. On the European side of the city, the Sultanahmet district is home to many of Istanbul's best sights, including the Hagia Sophia Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Combine a visit to these top attractions with a stroll down Istiklal Caddesi, one of the city's busiest streets with international and local shops and antique red trams. Venture into its outer lanes and streets for markets, restaurants and more.
See the city from a different perspective on a cruise up the Bosphorus and walk across its Galata Bridge in the morning to see it lined with fishermen.
- Flight time: Three hours 50 minutes
- Price of a pint: 100 Turkish lira (£2.57)
3. Amsterdam
Instantly recognisable, a stroll along Amsterdam's canal network is a joy. Take your time admiring the city's gabled buildings and bobbing canal boats, stopping occasionally for a coffee or a mooch at a home shop. Alternatively, rent a bike and get around like a local or see the city from a different angle from a boat.
Must-see attractions on a weekend city break here include the immaculate Anne Frank House, where the teenage diarist hid out, the charming Rijksmuseum with works by Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer, and the Van Gogh Museum.
For food and drink, the city's 'coffeeshops' share the limelight with fine-dining restaurants, trendy burger joints and great cafes.
Don't miss: Visit the National Holocaust Museum, which will open in March 2024 in a former teacher training college where hundreds of Jewish children were rescued during the war.
- Flight time: One hour and 15 minutes
- Price of a pint: €6.50 (£5.56)
4. Geneva
A flight from London to Geneva takes less than two hours, making it an ideal location for a weekend city break. And, although the city is small (it's often referred to as the world's smallest metropolis), it has a cosmopolitan feel thanks to the number of international organizations it houses - it's home to the European headquarters of the United Nations and the Red Cross. While exploring Switzerland's second largest city, you can enjoy mountain and lake views, visit its city beaches and dive into interesting museums.
And although it's famous for being expensive (£7.22 a pint!), there are plenty of free sights to see, such as its instantly recognizable Jet d'Eau fountain on Lake Geneva and its L'Horloge Fleurie flower clock. Free public transport cards are also available for city guests.
- Flight time: One hour 40 minutes
- Price of a pint: 8 Swiss francs (£7.22)
5. Paris
No list of the best city breaks in Europe would be complete without Paris, the capital of France. Known as the City of Love, if you're spending your weekend here wandering the other half, enjoy fine dining, views from the top of the Eiffel Tower, and hand-in-hand strolls along the river. Sen
But you don't have to be all fancy for these French charmers. Grand buildings and landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, world-famous art galleries and stylish cafes where you can sip coffee – or something stronger – are head-turners for solo travellers, groups of friends and families alike. Also, from the UK, it's a short flight or Eurostar ride away.
Don't miss: 2024 Olympic Games. or do The Games take place over two weeks in the summer from July 26 to August 11 and accommodation has skyrocketed so keep this in mind when planning a break.
- Flight time: One hour 20 minutes
- Price of a pint: €7.50 (£6.41)
6. Tbilisi
Thermal baths, excellent wine, vibrant nightlife and fascinating architecture make the Georgian capital one of the best city breaks in Europe. Dominated by the Narikala fortress, this valley town at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has a delightfully colorful old town, where you'll find everything from 17th-century sulfur baths and Georgian Orthodox churches to synagogues and a mosque. Check out the unusual clock tower attached to Rezo Gabriadze's Puppet Theater, nicknamed the Leaning Tower of Tbilisi because of its higgledy-piggledy structure.
Wine has been made in Georgia for over 8,000 years so be sure to sample some by tasting or with food. Try a traditional glass of amber cuverie-style wine, which is made using earthenware.
- Flight time: Just over four hours (from May 2024)
- Price of a pint: 5 Georgian lari (£1.50)
7. Barcelona
Barcelona effortlessly combines the best elements of European short breaks. Beaches with lush architecture, excellent food and drink, and blue skies abound. And you'll have to constantly reach for your camera to capture the handsome Spanish city's Gothic cathedrals, modernista buildings and Gaudi masterpieces like the Sagrada Família and colorful Park Güell.
Refuel after sightseeing on tapas then pop into a gallery like Barcelona's MACBA Museum of Contemporary Art or the Picasso Museum. Football fan? Visit the home of Barcelona FC, Camp Nou, for a stadium tour.
- Flight time: Two hours and five minutes
- Price of a pint: €3 (£2.56)
8. Budapest
Known for its thermal baths, ruins and historic buildings, Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a top choice for a delightful European city break. To start a trip, look out over the city and Danube River from Buda Castle then cross the water to take a guided tour of the domed Parliament Building.
Afterwards, grab a coffee and cake in one of the city's charming historic coffee shops before taking a steamy dip in the thermal bathhouse – first-timers can try Szechenyi Baths, one of Europe's largest spa thermal bath complexes. The House of Terror Museum is also worth a visit to learn about the Fascist and Communist regimes in Hungary.
- Flight time: Two hours 25 minutes
- Price of a pint: 1,000 Hungarian forints (£2.20)
9. Antwerp
Condé Nast Traveler named Antwerp "Belgium's most underrated city" in its list of the best places to visit in Europe in 2024, and it's easy to see why.
Start a visit at the MAS Museum to learn all about the city and look out over its buildings, harbor and river from the 10th floor panoramic roof terrace. Then go underground to the 572-metre-long St. Anne pedestrian tunnel that connects the left and right banks of the river, or explore the city's former canals and sewers on a guided tour. There's also plenty of history to discover at ground level, down the medieval Vleikensgang alley and in the city's oldest preserved building, Het Stein, which is home to The Antwerp Story.
- Flight time: One hour
- Price of a pint: 4 euros (£3.42)
10. Venice
Venice is a truly one-off European short break destination. The city on the water is home to elaborately decorated churches, buzzing squares, famous art galleries and bars where you can enjoy cicchetti (Italian-style tapas) and wine.
For a treat, book a gondola ride to navigate the city's canals, but if you're on a budget there are equally fancy public vaporetto (water bus) services or water taxis.
And while Venice's big sights are likely to be busy – think the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square – if you give yourself some time to get lost in its cobbled streets, you'll see another side of the city. , one of the quiet cafes, museums and shops.
- Flight time: Two hours and five minutes
- Price of a pint: 5 euros (£4.28)
11. Tartu
Tartu, Estonia's second largest city, has caught the world's attention in 2024, as it is the European Capital of Culture along with southern Estonia. There's plenty to do whenever you visit the oldest city in the Baltics. Its two historic wooden neighbourhoods, Karlova and Supilin, are charming, bohemian places to wander with street art, festivals and lots of greenery, with historic boats – the wooden Jummu barge and the Viking ship Turm – that you can sail on. On the river Emajõgi.
It's also a great city to relax in while trying out local specialties at one of its spas or local cafes or restaurants. The food changes with the seasons but the staples are bread (there are at least three different names for bread in Estonian), salted butter, potatoes and pork.
- Flight time: Four hours 30 minutes (including one changeover)
- Price of a pint: 4 euros (£3.42)
12. Lisbon
You'll fall in love with Portugal's capital on a city break in 2024. Known as the City of Seven Hills, get your bearings on one of Lisbon's famous yellow wooden trams up to the Mirador (viewpoint) to see the city and the Tagus River. Expanded below.
Known for its food, dishes to try in Lisbon include salted cod (bacalhau), chicken piri-piri and of course pastis de nata – custard tart. A great place to sample food from some of the city's most famous chefs is the massive Time Out Market.
You'll also want to visit some of the city's big hitters, so head to Belem to visit the city's Moorish Castelo de São Jorge, the 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery, or explore the Alfama district. You'll also find the city's 12th-century cathedral nearby.
- Flight time: Two hours 45 minutes
- Price of a pint: €3 (£2.56)
13. Tirana
Tirana is a relatively new city break destination as Albania's communist regime closed it off to the world until the 1990s. But its history, cheap prices (a pint costs around £2) and mild climate make it one of the best cities in Europe. In addition, airlines are launching new flights to the Albanian capital to make reaching Tirana easier than ever.
Learn all about the history of the Albanian Communist Army and the daily life of Albanians inside a nuclear bunker at BUNK'ART 1 and enter the tunnels at BUNK'ART 2, the former anti-nuclear bunker of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Then climb to the top of Tirana's central pyramid to admire the city from above. For more impressive views, take the Dajti Ekspres cable car east of the city to Dajti Mountain.
- Flight time: Three hours
- Price of a pint: 250.00 Lek (£2.05)
14. Krakow
The beautiful city of Krakow in the south of Poland is the perfect place for a weekend away, combining culture with delightful food and drink. Start at the Old Town's central square, Rynek Główny, the largest medieval town square in Europe, and have a coffee or beer while admiring its central medieval Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), the Town Hall Tower and St. Mary's Basilica.
Another beautiful building to visit is Wawel Royal Castle, now a museum with exhibits including the Crown Treasury and Armory and the Lost Wawel. A former concentration camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau is a harrowing but essential place to visit, just over an hour away.
- Flight time: Two hours 25 minutes
- Price of a pint: 15 Polish zlotys (£2.95)
15. Belfast
You will have a great time in Northern Ireland's capital. As a UNESCO City of Music, Belfast has over 80 music venues where you can catch live acts, from traditional music sessions in cozy bars to concerts in the Ulster Hall.
Titanic is the main attraction of Belfast city. Here, discover more about the ill-fated ship where it was designed, built and launched. It's important to learn more about Belfast's bloody political history and a great way to do this is with a guided tour. Visit famous sights like Falls Road and Shankill Road and listen to real-life stories with a guide.
- Flight time: One hour 20 minutes
- Price of a pint: £5.45
16. Madrid
A city break in Madrid will put a spring in your step whether you spend your time in its galleries, hang out with the locals, dine on fine dining or shop in its trendy boutiques.
Its 'Golden Triangle of Art' - the Prado, Reina Sofia and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum - should be the first stop for art enthusiasts, and you can easily spend a weekend at these institutions. But it would be a shame not to spend some time outside under Madrid's blue skies, relaxing in El Retiro park or eating tapas al fresco.
- Flight time: Two hours 30 minutes
- Price of a pint: €3.25 (£2.78)
17. Sophia
While Bulgaria's capital might not top the list of best European city breaks like Paris, it probably should. One of Europe's oldest cities, this 7,000-year-old sprawling city is as beautiful as it is fascinating.
The domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a jewel in the city's crown, built between 1882 and 1912 to honor Russian soldiers who fought for Bulgaria's independence during the Russo-Turkish War. The Sofia History Museum is housed in another magnificent building, a former Turkish mineral bath.
The city's main street, Vitosha Boulevard, is the place to go for dining and shopping. You'll find great bars and cafes in its side streets, all offering great value for money.
- Flight time: Three hours and five minutes
- Price of a pint: 4 Bulgarian Lev (£1.75)
18. Prague
Prague city breaks are full of culture, beautiful architecture, excellent food and of course world-famous beer. Begin your trip in the city's Old Town, with its astronomical clock, stone Charles Bridge and twin-spired Church of Our Lady Before Tyne.
Refuel in the Old Town Square with coffee and cake before heading to the city's most popular attraction, Prague Castle - the world's largest ancient castle. After you've seen the big sights, choose to slip into one of Prague's many art galleries, explore its labyrinths, or relax over an ice-cold drink in a traditional pub or microbrewery.
- Flight time: One hour 55 minutes
- Price of a pint: 55 Czech koruna (£1.85)
19. Copenhagen
Copenhagen offers a winning combination of both fun and cool. You can spend a moment shopping in its chic Danish interior stores and then squeal with delight at the Tivoli Gardens amusement park.
The city also takes its food seriously, with everything from Noma (closed as a restaurant and converted into a massive test kitchen in 2025) to cafes that take making the perfect smårebrod (open-faced sandwich) seriously. On a visit, snap photos of the colorful Nyhavn area, the Little Mermaid sculpture and Tivoli Gardens, and see a different side of the city by bike or on a boat tour of its canals.
- Flight time: One hour 50 minutes
- Price of a pint: 60 Danish kroner (£6.88)
20. Seville
If you've been dreaming of escaping to a vibrant city on your next European weekend, look no further than Seville in southern Spain. Its striking architecture is reason enough to visit, including the Seville Cathedral, the 14th-century Alcázar Palace and the modern Setas de Sevilla, stand-out buildings with a massive wooden structure with a viewing platform.
Spend some time sampling some of the city's world-famous tapas in a traditional bar or two before catching a flamenco show until the small hours.
- Flight time: Two hours 45 minutes
- Price of a pint: €2.50 (£2.14)
21. Athens
Athens is a city steeped in history whose icon, the Acropolis, headlines its skyline. But it's not a city stuck in the past, and a city break in Athens can have you partying late at a hip bar, admiring street art and wandering its buzzing neighborhoods in search of your next bite to eat or drink. .
Sports fans will want to visit the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held, and if you want to learn more about the city's history, buy a ticket for the National Archaeological Museum. If time permits, you may want to escape the city heat with a trip to a nearby beach on the so-called Athenian Riviera.
- Flight time: Three hours 40 minutes
- Price of a pint: 5 euros (£4.28)
22. Dubrovnik
Stunning Dubrovnik in the south of Croatia allows you to combine history with a dip in the sea and drinks in cool bars with walks featuring knock-out views. Wander the city walls in the UNESCO-listed Old Town, gaze out over the city's terracotta roofs and the shimmering Adriatic before exploring the pedestrian streets below.
After a day of sightseeing, have a cool drink at a buzzing bar - Buja Bar, which is accessed through a hole in the wall, and Guha Bar More are good options. If you want to escape the city crowds, take a boat to the nearby island of Lokram or climb Mount SRD, a hill behind the Old Town with sweeping views of the city and beyond (there's a cable car).
- Flight time: Two hours 45 minutes
- Price of a pint: €4.18 (£3.57)
23. Porto
Visit Portugal's second city for port wine and rave about its exceptional cuisine, riverside cafes and laid-back atmosphere. Before heading to Porto's lodges, take your instructors to explore Porto's hilly streets, snapping shots of the scenery, tiled buildings and colorful street art.
After a tasting session, escape to the Jardins do Palacio de Cristal Botanical Garden to clear your head, or see more of the city by Rabelo (a traditional Portuguese cargo boat) on a tour along the Douro River.
- Flight time: Two hours 20 minutes
- Price of a pint: 2 euros (£1.71)
24. Edinburgh
Known for the annual Edinburgh International Festival and Harry Potter connections, the Scottish capital is an exciting choice for a weekend city break close to home. The top attraction on many visitors' lists is Edinburgh Castle, which houses Britain's oldest crown jewels (the honor of Scotland).
Another interesting attraction is The Real Mary King's Close, a warren of underground streets where you'll be told stories about Edinburgh's dark past by costumed tour guides. Edinburgh also has galleries and museums for all tastes and ages, from the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art and the National Museum of Scotland to Camera Obscura and World of Illusion.
- Flight time: One hour 20 minutes
- Price of a pint: £5
25. Ljubljana
Still a fairly under-the-radar European city break destination, a trip to Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana, will be full of good food, wine and handsome buildings. The town's medieval palace towers over the town and is worth a visit for the view alone - on a clear day, you can see all the way to the hills.
Equally beautiful are the city's buildings and structures by 20th-century architect, Jozef Plechnik. These include the central white stone Triple Bridge, the Colonnade Central Market and the National and University Libraries. And a big plus point for a city break in Ljubljana is that most of its center is car-free so you can have the occasional pit-stop for a slab of delicious cake or a drink al fresco.
- Flight time: Two hours 10 minutes
- Price of a pint: €3.50 (£2.99)
26. Reykjavik
For such a small city, Reykjavík packs a powerful punch. There aren't many places where you can bounce between art galleries and museums that teach you about Iceland's history one day then go on a whale watching cruise the next. Or where you can jump into the geothermal pools and swim outside before freshening up for a night of fine dining and live music.
Allow some time on your break to rest and admire the city from above by climbing to the top of the birdwatch and rocket-shaped Hallgrímskirkja church by Lake Tjörnin.
- Flight time: Three hours and 15 minutes
- Price of a pint: 1,500 Icelandic krona (£8.61)
27. Douglas
The capital of the Isle of Man only became a city in 2022 as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Just a short ferry or plane ride from the UK, you'll soon be strolling along the Douglas waterfront, passing a bronze statue of the born Bee Gees and gazing up at the towering Tower of Refuge. A partially submerged reef to shelter shipwrecked victims until they can be rescued.
Learn more about the island's history at the town's Manx Museum and board a train with the Isle of Man Steam Railway for a scenic one-hour trip to Port Erin in the south of the island.
Flight time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Price of a pint: £3.83
28. Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy, is a timeless masterpiece that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern charm, making it one of the best cities to visit in Europe. Known as the Eternal City, Rome boasts iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, each narrating tales of the Roman Empire's grandeur.
The Vatican City, nestled within Rome, is home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel, showcasing some of Michelangelo's finest works. Beyond its historical treasures, Rome offers a vibrant street life, delectable Italian cuisine, and beautiful piazzas.
The Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps are not just tourist attractions but essential parts of the city’s fabric. With its rich cultural heritage, Rome invites travelers to lose themselves in its cobblestone streets and bustling markets. From exploring the art-filled churches to enjoying a leisurely gelato by the Tiber River, Rome remains a top choice among the best cities to visit in Europe.
29. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain, is a vibrant city that captivates visitors with its unique blend of Gothic and modernist architecture, earning its reputation as one of the best cities to visit in Europe. The city is synonymous with the artistic genius of Antoni Gaudí, whose masterpieces like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell define Barcelona’s skyline.
The bustling La Rambla, lined with cafes and street performers, is a lively promenade leading to the waterfront. Barcelona’s rich cultural scene includes world-class museums, theaters, and a thriving nightlife. Its Mediterranean beaches, such as Barceloneta, offer a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. The city’s culinary scene is equally impressive, with a wide range of tapas bars and restaurants serving delicious Catalan cuisine.
Whether exploring the historic Gothic Quarter or relaxing in the bohemian atmosphere of El Raval, Barcelona is a dynamic and diverse destination, firmly establishing itself among the best cities to visit in Europe.
30. London, UK
London, UK, is a city that effortlessly combines tradition with modernity, making it one of the best cities to visit in Europe. Steeped in history, London is home to iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey, each offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past. The city’s skyline is a mix of historic architecture and modern marvels like the Shard and the London Eye. London’s cultural scene is unparalleled, with world-renowned institutions such as the British Museum, Tate Modern, and West End theaters.
The city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the bustling markets of Camden to the chic boutiques of Notting Hill, provide a vibrant urban tapestry. London’s culinary scene is equally diverse, with a plethora of options ranging from traditional pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants. As a global hub of finance, fashion, and art, London continues to be a top destination among the best cities to visit in Europe.
FAQs: The 30 Best Cities to Visit in Europe 2024-2025
1. What are the top cities to visit in Europe in 2024-2025?
The top cities to visit in Europe for 2024-2025 include London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Prague, Vienna, Florence, and Lisbon. Each city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and attractions.
2. When is the best time to visit Europe?
The best time to visit Europe depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Summer (July to August) is peak season with warm weather but crowded attractions. Winter (November to March) can be cold but is ideal for winter sports and Christmas markets.
3. What is the most affordable way to travel around Europe?
Traveling by train is often the most affordable and convenient way to explore Europe. Consider purchasing a Eurail Pass for unlimited travel across multiple countries. Budget airlines, buses, and car rentals are also popular options.
4. What should I pack for a trip to Europe?
Pack light, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Essentials include a universal adapter, a reusable water bottle, a travel umbrella, and a lightweight jacket. Depending on the season and destinations, consider adding layers for cooler evenings.
Conclusion
Europe's diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history make it a must-visit destination. From the historic streets of Rome to the modern galleries of Berlin, each city offers a unique experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Europe's endless charm and cultural richness await your exploration. Pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe.
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