- 1. Introduction
- 2. The 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe at a Glance
- 3. Rank 1: Amsterdam
- 4. Famous Museums in Amsterdam
- 5. Rank 2: Venice
- 6. Alone in Venice
- 7. Rank 3: Dubrovnik
- 8. Exploring Dubrovnik Without a Car
- 9. Rank 4: Paris
- 10. Eiffel Tower, Paris, Louvre & Bistros
- 11. Rank 5: Prague
- 12. Exploring Prague by Bus, Boat, or on Foot
- 13. Rank 6: Vienna
- 14. Culinary Delights in Vienna
- 15. Rank 7: London
- 16. A Historical-Modern Architectural Mix
- 17. London as a Nation
- 18. Rank 8: Rome
- 19. Vibrant Activity in Rome
- 20. Rank 9: Lisbon
- 21. In the Cultural Heart of Lisbon
- 22. Rank 10: Bruges
- 23. Medieval Europe
- 24. Exploring Bruges by Waterway
- 25. FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
- 26. Which city in Europe must be seen?
- 27. Which city in Europe is good for a short trip?
- 28. Which is the most beautiful city in Europe?
- 29. Which European city is budget-friendly for a vacation?
- 30. Which sights in Europe should not be missed?
- 31. These cities and regions in Europe might also interest you:
Introduction
Paris. Rome. Vienna. Prague. Travel enthusiasts have a wide range of choices in Europe. Whether it's numerous attractions, vibrant nightlife, or fantastic regional cuisine, there's so much to experience while traveling in Europe. Eastern European metropolises like Dubrovnik are gaining more popularity.
Find out where a city trip is particularly worthwhile right now. Here are our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe.
The 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe at a Glance
Rank 1: Amsterdam
Our Top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe are led by Amsterdam. Approximately 900,000 cyclists commute regularly here. Thus, 58 percent of Amsterdammers cycle daily through the capital of the Netherlands, passing by 8,863 houses, some of which date back to the 16th century.
Famous Museums in Amsterdam
But Amsterdam is also a major city with a rich cultural identity. There are 75 museums here, many of which enjoy global recognition. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum are known far beyond the borders of Amsterdam.
Rank 2: Venice
The classic Venice takes rank 2 in our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe. Venice is a unique city that everyone should visit at least once. The winding streets and alleys, the romantic bridges, and the squares and courtyards give this lagoon city its distinctive charm.
Alone in Venice
To fully appreciate the beauty of Venice, it is recommended to explore it at night or in the early morning hours. Seeing a deserted St. Mark's Square is simply an unforgettable experience. At that moment, everyone will succumb to the charm of Venice. Venice is a popular travel destination year-round, especially in the summer when the city is particularly busy.
Read more about our rank 2, Venice, here.
Rank 3: Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is the perfect holiday destination for those who want to blend sun, sea, and culture. This UNESCO World Heritage site beautifully combines the best of Croatia within a compact area. Located right on the Mediterranean, Dubrovnik is home to monasteries, churches, and palaces as far as the eye can see. This diversity is what makes Dubrovnik so popular.
Exploring Dubrovnik Without a Car
Particularly noteworthy are the city walls and the fortifications of Dubrovnik, which are highlights of a stroll along the Croatian southern coast. Additionally, the car-free Old Town is particularly charming. All of this makes Dubrovnik rank 3 in our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe.
Find more information about the Croatian pearl on the Adriatic here.
Rank 4: Paris
Paris is the most visited city in the world. Over 30 million tourists visit the French capital each year. Known as the city of love, Paris is especially popular among honeymooners and new couples. Additionally, rank 4 in our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe is widely regarded as a fashion metropolis.
Eiffel Tower, Paris, Louvre & Bistros
Paris is particularly famous for the Eiffel Tower. Since its completion in 1889, it has been an iconic landmark and tourist magnet. However, the city on the Seine has much more to offer. Paris impressively combines pleasure and liveliness. Bring along ample time to discover the charm of the many little street cafés. A visit to an exhibition at the Louvre is also a must. Other exciting attractions include Notre Dame, the Marché aux Puces de Montreuil, and the Moulin Rouge.
Rank 5: Prague
Rank 5 in our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe goes to Prague. The Golden City is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in European city tourism. Each year, millions of visitors flock to the Czech capital. The gentle hilly landscape along the Vltava River provides a uniquely beautiful setting. Gothic and Baroque architecture dominate the cityscape, with elements of Art Nouveau also found in Prague.
Exploring Prague by Bus, Boat, or on Foot
Of course, Prague also offers many interesting places and beautiful attractions. Visitors can choose to explore the city by bus, boat, or on foot. The Charles Bridge, one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe, is a particular highlight. Additionally, Wenceslas Square, the Old Town Square, and the Prague Metro should not be overlooked during a sightseeing tour.
Learn all about the Golden City of Prague here in our top 10 Prague attractions.
Rank 6: Vienna
Vienna is known as a city with a high quality of life and ranks 6 in our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe. However, the Austrian capital also has a lot to offer tourists. Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of Empress Sisi, is undoubtedly one of the main attractions. The baroque palace complex welcomes its visitors with a beautiful park landscape, a palm house, a gloriette, and the oldest existing zoo in the world.
Culinary Delights in Vienna
As the only city in the world, Vienna is also the namesake of its own culinary style: Viennese cuisine. Influenced by various countries, it features a diverse and imaginative culinary scene. The Viennese coffee house, known for its tradition and coffee variations, is famous beyond the city limits. Since 2011, it has even been recognized as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.
So, are you curious now? Explore the attractions of this top Austrian city on a city trip to Vienna.
Rank 7: London
When it comes to the top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe, a world metropolis cannot be missed: London! The multifaceted capital of the United Kingdom is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. No wonder: London unites culture, fashion, and history like hardly any other city.
A Historical-Modern Architectural Mix
Architecturally, there is much to see during a city trip to London. On one side, modern buildings like The Shard dominate the skyline, while on the other side, Art Deco and brick expressionist buildings can be found. All of this makes London one of the 10 most beautiful cities in Europe.
London as a Nation
Experience the many attractions such as Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, or the London Eye up close. In the 32 boroughs, there is something to marvel at around nearly every corner. No wonder, then, that Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli is said to have remarked in the 19th century: 'London is a nation, not a city.'
Rank 8: Rome
And Rome also deserves a spot in our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe. In the Italian capital, one feels as if in the exhibition halls of a giant open-air museum. Rome, after all, is considered a lifelike, composite artwork made up of squares, markets, and magnificent historical sites.
Vibrant Activity in Rome
The Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon are among the most famous and popular attractions in Rome. The bustling activity in the Eternal City can be wonderfully observed from one of the many cafés in Campo de'Fiori or on Via Veneto.
Rank 9: Lisbon
Another must-include in our top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe is Lisbon. As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon also serves as its main port. The city lies at the estuary of the Tagus River in the extreme southwestern part of Europe. Lisbon is characterized by a long and rich maritime history. This is evidenced by its numerous monuments, promenades, cafés, and viewpoints.
In the Cultural Heart of Lisbon
At the heart of Lisbon is undoubtedly the Praça do Comércio. Located directly on the Tagus River, it is a wonderful place to relax. Other attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage site Torre de Belém and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, which houses the tomb of the famous navigator Vasco da Gama.
Our overview of Lisbon attractions.
Rank 10: Bruges
Our neighboring country Belgium has much to offer. With Bruges, it is home to one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. This former European Capital of Culture is a real tourist magnet. Anyone thinking that Bruges is only known from the dark comedy 'In Bruges,' is mistaken. With its unique Old Town, a diverse cultural and art scene, and Flemish serenity, Bruges has always enchanted people.
Medieval Europe
In 2000, the city, which has just about 118,000 inhabitants, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage City. A walk through the city and its medieval core quickly reveals why. Here, magnificent patrician houses are lined up next to modest homes and medieval buildings. Numerous green spaces, winding alleys, and cobbled streets give Bruges a distinctive flair.
Exploring Bruges by Waterway
A boat ride through the canals, the so-called 'Reien,' is an absolute must when visiting Bruges. After all, Bruges was considered one of the largest trade centers in Europe during the 14th century due to its many waterways. From the water, many of the attractions can be beautifully admired. Be sure to visit the Burg Square, the Belfry Tower, and the Market Halls. You'll also experience the unique charm that this beautiful city exudes at Our Lady's Church and the De Halve Maan Brewery.
Book now: Discover Europe on a city trip!
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
Which city in Europe must be seen?
Cities such as Amsterdam, Venice, and Dubrovnik should be on your bucket list.
Which city in Europe is good for a short trip?
The following cities are suitable for a short trip in Europe:
- Prague
- Vienna
- London
Which is the most beautiful city in Europe?
According to the Travelcircus ranking of the Top 10 most beautiful cities in Europe, Amsterdam ranks first.
Which European city is budget-friendly for a vacation?
According to the City Trip Index 2019, the following cities are among the most affordable in Europe:
- Kyiv (Ukraine)
- Krakow (Poland)
- Warsaw (Poland)
- Belgrade (Serbia)
- Budapest (Hungary)
- Riga (Latvia)
- Dresden (Germany)
- Berlin (Germany)
- Bratislava (Slovakia)
- Hamburg (Germany)
Which sights in Europe should not be missed?
According to the Travelcircus Instagram Check 2019, the following attractions are among the must-see sights in Europe:
- Eiffel Tower, Paris
- Big Ben, London
- London Eye, London
- Louvre, Paris
- Notre Dame, Paris
- Tower Bridge, London
- Mont Blanc, Alps
These cities and regions in Europe might also interest you:
- Milan Attractions
- Lake Constance Region
- Edinburgh Attractions