European countries are known for their vibrant cities, which embrace restaurants, nightlife, museums, and architecture. The wide array of options makes it tough to choose the perfect spot. There are a lot of beautiful cities that will make your trip heaven. Whether you are looking for a backpacker trip or a luxurious relaxed trip, Europe retains something for everyone.
From ancient Roman history and stunning beaches in Greece to irresistible shopping in Paris, Europe is a paradise for its visitors. The country has a lot to present to visitors. Further, they are perfect for a city break, a romantic getaway, a sunny vacation, shopping, culture, or soaking in nature.
In this blog, we will put forward the details of some of the famous cities in Europe. We will let you know the places with lively nightlife, dazzling architecture, and natural beauty. So, read on to get a glance at the astonishing destinations.
Paris
The very first on our list is the city of lights, Paris. The city is famous for its architecture, culture, food, and fashion. This French capital is home to some of the most well-known structures like the Eiffel Tower, several ensuing boulevards, museums like the Louvre, and many artistic treasures. The best time to visit Paris is around June to August.
The fascinating Eiffel Tower, which pierces the skyline, is a dream spot for many people. You can stroll along the Luxembourg Gardens. Explore the Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, the Sacré Coeur. Walk through The Latin Quarter or Montmartre and grab a drink at the city’s best bars. Also, you can attend a show at Moulin Rouge or Lido de Paris.
The city is home to some of the world-famous Michelin Star restaurants and some comfy bistros. Don't forget to enjoy the croissants at sidewalk cafes. Apart from that, there are many patisseries, boulangeries (bakeries), and cheese shops. So, Paris has a treasure of delights for the foodies.
Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the most desired destinations for many people. The city is full of breathtaking scenery and tourist attractions. Further, it comprises glittering lakes, towering peaks, and numerous waterfalls. Take a boat tour to the Rhine falls, the largest waterfall in Europe. Further, you can also visit Staubbach Falls, Engstligen Falls, Trümmelbach Falls, etc.
Jet d’Eau is the giant water fountain in Geneva. People can see it from miles away. Take a ride on Bernina Express, the most picturesque Swiss train ride. It gives a tour of 196 bridges and 55 tunnels. Also, you can catch views of mountain peaks, towns, and glaciers. Visitors can consider a trip between April and October. Enjoy popular dishes such as Leeks with potatoes and sausage, Cheese Fondue, Rösti, Raclette, Basel Flour Soup, etc.
Zurich and Basel are great options to witness contemporary art and eclectic architecture. Stroll along the Chapel Bridge, which is in the city of Lucerne. It has a sequence of paintings from the 17th century. Pay a visit to Chillon Castle to have a glance at the art from the 14th century.
Rome
Rome, the capital of Italy, is one of the world’s most iconic places. The city is known for its great history and scenic beauty. Apart from these, it also remains a memorial to the innovative vision of architecture. Check out the awe-inspiring Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Colosseum, the Roman Forum. Moreover, pay a visit to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica.
Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour to explore the city. Visit the Borghese Gallery, one of the most reputable museums in the world. Besides, you can hike up Mount Vesuvius and discover the UNESCO-listed remains of Pompeii. Moreover, you can shop for artwork and haute couture from the regional market. You can plan a trip to Rome at any time of the year.
Rome is overflowing with restaurants, from trattorias to fusion restaurants. Give a try to the Roman specialties – such as artichokes. Also, try out the Cacio e Pepe, a simple pasta dish spiced with black pepper and Pecorino Romano cheese. Give a try to the drinks at the wine bars- Cul De Sac, Enoteca il Goccetto, or Trimani Enoteca.
London
Moving on to London, the capital of England and the most crowded city in Great Britain. The city is the epitome of cobbled streets and hidden gems. From history and culture to fine food and good times, London has something to offer each of its visitors.
Visit Buckingham Palace to dive into the royal feel. Also, there are various art galleries; you can stop by them to take a glimpse of the rich culture and history of this city. Besides, visit the Kew Gardens or London Zoo to take a tour of nature and animals.
At Warner Bros Studios, you can recreate the scenes of your favorite movies. Take a boat ride down the Thames River. London embraces world-class cuisines from modern British to Malaysian cuisine. You can visit the restaurants like Sketch, Duck & Waffle, and Sushi Samba.
Barcelona
Barcelona is a great option to spend an artistic and fun time. It merges a rich cultural legacy with golden sand beaches and lively nightlife. Barcelona is like a dream city for those who want to explore the world. The Palau Guell and the Casa Mila are stated as world heritage sites by UNESCO.
You can try many fun activities in the city. Skydiving in Barcelona is popular among them. The best time to explore the city is May to August. It is home to stunning beaches. Some of them are Bogatell Beach, Nova Icària, Mar Bella, Barceloneta Beach, and Sant Sebastià.
Visitors can get a mix of classic Spanish dishes along with Mediterranean-infused Catalonian masterpieces. Must try the jamón ibérico, manchego cheese, tortilla española, patatas bravas, and gazpacho.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is full of significant buildings, historic landmarks, and interesting sceneries. Amsterdam is also ideal as an educational tour with the kids or a romantic escape for two. Visit Anne Frank’s House in the Jewish Quarter to soak in the rich culture of the city. Further, flick through the city’s best museums, such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum.
Pay a visit to the medieval town center of Utrecht, the modern metropolis of Rotterdam, and drop in the Keukenhof to get a glimpse of the tulips fields. You can try out fun activities like zip lining, biking, canoeing, and rock climbing. Vondelpark is a great place for a picnic with your family and friends.
Amsterdam has a wide array of canals. So, you can opt for a cruise of picturesque canals. Try out famous street foods such as the herring. Also, you can enjoy Indonesian rijsttafel. The best restaurant option is Restaurant Jun, Sampurna, and Restaurant Jun. The best time to travel to the city is between March and October.
Venice
Venice is famous for its beautiful settings, artwork, and predominantly Venetian Gothic architecture. If you are searching for a pleasant and attractive tourist destination, Venice is the perfect spot. Venice is also known as the “city of canals” or the “floating city”.
The major attractions of the city include churches, museums, and squares. Some famous churches are Basilica di San Marco, Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari, San Giorgio Maggiore, and Santa Maria del Giglio. Moreover, you must visit St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the major tourist attractions.
Take a ride on the Grand Canal on a gondola. Try out authentic Venetian cuisine. Also, enjoy the street food Tramezzini and Frutti di mare, a seafood salad. You can consider the restaurants- Ostaria Boccadora, Jewish Ghetto, and Ristorante La Caravella. April to November are the golden times to visit Venice.
Prague
Prague is one of the most ravishing cities in Central Europe and even the world. The city is famous for its outstanding architecture, rich history, and rural cobblestoned streets. Apart from them, its narrow streets, storied churches, terrifying hilltop castle, and statue-lined bridges make the city worth visiting.
You can find incredible examples of Gothic, Art Nouveau Baroque, and Renaissance styles of architecture around the city. Furthermore, you can start your day by admiring Old Town and then seeing Prague castle, to the Astronomical Clock. Visit the Museum of Communism and the Apple Museum and perceive the rich history of the place.
Then, you can have a great time of your life at a locally-led pub crawl. Or you can attend a Czech Folklore Show. Hog on to the great food like svícková, which comprises a vegetable cream sauce, cranberry sauce, and whipped cream. Plus, give a try to some of the great dishes such as bramboráky, ovocné knedlíky, and perníky. You can plan your trip around the month of April to October.
Budapest
Budapest is one of the most appealing holiday destinations and photogenic cities in Europe. People refer to it as the ‘Little Paris' of Middle Europe. The gorgeous city has a wide range of tourist attractions, from churches, museums, galleries, and synagogues to ruin pubs, spas, and thermal baths.
To get a sight of Roman, neo-Gothic, Renaissance and Ottoman architecture, visit the Fisherman's Bastion and Buda Castle. Then, move on to the stunning Matthias Church, with the most pleasing views over the river and the city. Visit the House of Terror, a very well-known museum. The best time to take a little trip is between March to May & September to November.
Get across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to the Pest side of the river. After that, you can stop by the Shoes on the Danube Bank. Later, join a free walking tour via the Jewish Quarter. Try out different cuisines for your meals. Have a traditional Hungarian dish for breakfast. For lunch, you can go with American cuisine and authentic Italian for dinner.
Vienna
Vienna is one of the best summer destinations in Europe and Austria’s most populated city. One of the major reasons behind the captivating environment and beautiful history of the city is its location. Further, the city is often referred to as the city of music. So, make sure to catch a classical concert at Eschenbach Palace, Peterskirche, or Musikverein.
Visit the Schönbrunn Palace, one of the famous landmarks of the city. The palace is full of history and immense gardens to explore. Other palaces worth visiting are the Belvedere Palace, with an outstanding art display, and Hofburg Imperial Palace, presently home to Austria’s president. Make some time for a day trip to Wachau Valley or Lake Neusiedl.
Viennese cuisine is a must try when you visit the city. Much of Austrian cuisine revolves around meat, so vegetarians have to be careful. Try out the classic Austrian taverns (known as bells). It serves up hearty slices of Tafelspitz (boiled beef), wiener schnitzel (deep-fried, breaded veal), and goulash (a rich stew made primarily from beef and potatoes).
For desserts,you can enjoy the sacher-faschingskrapfens (sugared doughnuts), gugelhupfs, (marbled bundt cakes), and apple strudel. Plus, you can enjoy the beer at the tasting rooms, bars, and eateries.
Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is one of the most attractive and sophisticated cities in Europe. The city is known for its historic memorials, bright, centuries-old buildings, and world-class galleries. Moreover, travel around the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. Explore the lush gardens and parks. Go for a walk on the riverbank promenade.
A trip to Lisbon is all you need to relax and rewind. Get lost in the fascinating alleys of the district of Alfama, the oldest in the city. Pay a call to Sé Cathedral and adore the picturesque views from the S. Jorge Castle. The Belém district is full of wonders for art lovers. They can visit the Belém Tower or Jerónimos Monastery, the most splendid examples of the Manueline style – also referred to as the Portuguese late Gothic.
A trip to Lisbon is incomplete without visiting Sintra, the fairy tale city. The captivating medieval village, fascinating woods, and the vibrant Pena Palace are the top attractions of the city. Make sure to plan your trip around March to May or September to October. Moreover, try out Bacalhau (salted cod) and Pasteis de Nata. You can visit the restaurants like Cervajaria Ramiro, Belcanto, and Time Out Market.
Conclusion
These are some of the best locations for a trip to Europe. If you are planning a trip to Europe, you can consider these cities. Each of them has a unique history and dazzling scenery.
Make sure to add them to your wishlist while traveling to Europe. We have suggested the top attraction, so it becomes easy for you. Also, we have added some of the popular dishes of the cities. So, do try out the appetizing dishes. And make the most out of your trip with these recommendations.
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