15 Best City Escapes In Europe
Not all escapes require remote islands or deserted landscapes. Sometimes, all you need is Europe and its hidden cities!
Of course, there’re Europe’s capitals that are too crowded, but on the other hand, there’re city escapes that offer charm without the chaos!
Prepare to stand in awe, and find out which destinations are worlds of their own!
1. Sintra, Portugal
If there’s one place that belongs in a fantasy novel, I say it’s Sintra! The colors of the palaces, such as the iconic Pena Palace, seem to leap out from a storybook. It’s a place where Romantic architecture meets nature’s serene beauty.
Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets, and you’ll find delightful gardens, elegant estates, and charming cafes. The scent of pastries from local bakeries wafts through the air, tempting you to indulge.
Don’t miss the Moorish Castle, a fortress atop the hills offering breathtaking views of the landscape below. Are you seeking beauty and mystery? Sintra has both!
2. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
This UNESCO World Heritage site is wrapped by the Vltava River, creating a natural moat around its enchanting old town.
The cobbled streets are lined with colorful Renaissance and Baroque buildings, each telling a story of its own. At the heart of it all stands the Český Krumlov Castle, offering panoramic views of the red-tiled rooftops and countryside.
Unlike the crowds of Prague, this town moves at a slower, more magical pace. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time while wandering through centuries-old alleyways.
3. Annecy, France
You want to be captured all the way? Escape to Annecy, or should I say the “Venice of the Alps”? Its crystal-clear canals, lined with flowers, meander through the old town, creating a romantic atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
It’s surrounded by the majestic French Alps, and offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike. Whether you’re enjoying an easy stroll along Lake Annecy or exploring the charming boutiques and cafes, there’s always a sense of calm here.
History lovers will appreciate the Château d’Annecy, a castle turned museum that overlooks the city.
4. Kotor, Montenegro
Some places have breathtaking scenery, and others have rich history. But Kotor? It has both, and then some.
This medieval masterpiece is a place where stone-walled alleyways twist like a labyrinth, fortress ruins tower above the town, and centuries of maritime history linger in the salty sea breeze.
The walls that surround the town are so well-preserved they feel like something out of Game of Thrones! Except this is real, and you get to explore it firsthand.
5. Hallstatt, Austria
Some places are so impossibly beautiful, they feel like they’ve been plucked straight from a dream, Hallstatt is one of them. This postcard-perfect Austrian village is the kind of place that steals your breath and refuses to give it back.
With its cobblestone streets, flower-draped balconies, and charming 16th-century houses reflecting in the lake, Hallstatt doesn’t just look magical, it feels magical.
As you wander through the tiny lanes, you’ll hear the soft chime of church bells, the occasional ripple of a swan gliding across the lake, and the distant hum of a mountain breeze rolling through the valley.
Pure serenity!
6. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is often called the “Venice of the North,” and enchants visitors with its medieval charm and intricate canals. The cobblestone streets and historic architecture create a timeless atmosphere that invites exploration.
The Belfry of Bruges offers a climb with a reward. I’m talking about a panoramic view of the city and its canals. Chocolate shops and local breweries tempt the senses, offering a taste of Belgian delights.
It’s a place where the past and present coexist, offering an escape into a world that feels both familiar and new.
7. Sibiu, Romania
Sibiu is a storybook city with eyes that watch over you! Gothic towers pierce the sky, and centuries-old bridges whisper stories of the past. But what makes Sibiu truly unforgettable? The “watchful” rooftops.
Yes, the city’s historic houses have small, almond-shaped windows that look like eyes; giving you the eerie yet fascinating feeling that Sibiu is always keeping an eye on you.
Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, Sibiu is a gateway to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring its historical landmarks or hiking in the nearby mountains, Sibiu promises an authentic and enriching escape.
8. Rovinj, Croatia
Ah, Rovinj! The perfect escape plan! It’s your dream come to life.
This Croatian gem is a mosaic of pastel-colored houses, sun-drenched waterfront cafés, and centuries-old charm that refuses to fade with time. It’s the kind of place that pulls you in and makes you want to stay forever.
Unlike Dubrovnik or Split, Rovinj still feels like a hidden treasure, where the fishing boats outnumber the tourists and life moves at the rhythm of the tides.
9. Ghent, Belgium
Ghent is a perfect blend of history and modernity. Its medieval architecture and squares offer a glimpse into its rich past while embracing a contemporary spirit.
The Gravensteen Castle stands as a testament to Ghent’s storied history, offering panoramic views of the city’s rooftops. The Graslei and Korenlei streets are lined with cafes and bars, perfect for soaking in the city’s lively atmosphere.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s museums, while food lovers can indulge in traditional Belgian waffles. Ghent is a city that surprises and delights, offering an escape that’s both enriching and exhilarating.
10. Alberobello, Italy
Alberobello, located in the southern region of Puglia, Italy, is famous for its charming trulli houses. These whitewashed, cone-roofed structures give the town a whimsical appearance, as if plucked from the pages of a fantasy novel.
But these storybook houses aren’t just for show. They have a fascinating history. The trulli were originally built using dry-stone construction to evade property taxes in the 17th century.
So, how about a little escape to the 17th century?
11. Bergen, Norway
Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains and the sea. It simply captivates with its natural beauty and rich history. This Norwegian gem is a perfect escape for those craving both breathtaking scenery and small-town charm.
The colorful wooden houses of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, line the harbor and tell tales of a bygone era.
Bergen is the gateway to Norway’s legendary fjords, and the best way to take it all in? Hop on a boat and sail through the breathtaking Sognefjord or Nærøyfjord, where towering cliffs and waterfalls create a landscape so surreal, it feels otherworldly.
12. Gjirokastër, Albania
Gjirokastër, or should I say the “City of Stone,”? It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s history.
The city’s stone houses, with their distinct Ottoman architecture, create a striking landscape against the beautiful backdrop.
Strolling through the bazaar, you’ll find local crafts and traditional cuisine that offer a taste of Albania’s rich culture. Gjirokastër is a city where every stone has a story. You’ll want to hear all of them!
13. Lucca, Italy
Some Italian towns dazzle with grandeur, but Lucca charms you with quiet elegance. And once you experience it, you won’t want to leave!
Lucca is a place where Renaissance walls enclose a world of cobblestone streets, grand piazzas, and café tables where time seems to slow down.
Unlike Florence or Pisa, there’s no rush here! Just pure, unfiltered Tuscan beauty at its most authentic.
14. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Do you know that “most” means bridge in Bosnian? So, it’s kind of silly to guess what’s its most iconic landmark! It’s Stari Most bridge! The bridge has history that goes very far into the history and connects the two halves of the city, both physically and culturally.
Mostar feels like it exists in two worlds at one! It’s a city where East meets West.
Fun fact: I actually lived here for some while, and I’ll tell you this… It leaves an imprint on your soul that can’t be explained with words!
15. Óbidos, Portugal
Óbidos is a charming medieval town in Portugal and a place where history comes alive.
It’s enclosed by ancient walls, the town’s narrow streets lead to a majestic castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The whitewashed buildings, adorned with bougainvillea, create a picturesque scene that’s hard to resist.
Sampling the local ginjinha, a cherry liqueur, is a must while exploring the quaint shops and cafes. Óbidos is a town that enchants with its history and charm, making it a perfect escape into a world of timeless beauty.