These 6 Cities Are In A Tie For The Best In Europe + 6 Worthy Runners-Ups
Europe is packed with cities that leave a lasting impression—each one offering its own mix of culture, history, and unforgettable energy. Whether you’re into art-filled afternoons, cozy cafés, or neighborhoods that feel like open-air museums, there’s no shortage of places that feel like they were made just for you.
Some cities consistently rise to the top, thanks to their all-around appeal, while others quietly charm their way onto must-visit lists. Here’s a look at the top contenders for the best in Europe—plus a few more that absolutely deserve a spot on your radar.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Winding streets lead to unexpected treasures around every corner. Barcelona captivates visitors with its perfect blend of beach relaxation and urban excitement.
Gaudí’s fantastical buildings like Sagrada Familia stand as colorful monuments to creativity, while neighborhoods like Gothic Quarter and El Born invite endless exploration.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Picturesque canals create a maze of waterways lined with narrow houses tilting slightly forward. Amsterdam’s charm comes from its perfect balance of historic beauty and progressive thinking.
Rent a bike to join locals in the preferred mode of transport, then spend afternoons in world-class museums like the Van Gogh or Rijksmuseum.
3. Vienna, Austria
Grand imperial palaces stand alongside modern coffee shops where locals linger for hours. Vienna maintains its elegant atmosphere while embracing contemporary comforts and innovations.
Music flows through the city’s veins, from street performers to world-class opera houses. The immaculate streets, manicured gardens, and consistently high quality of life make this capital truly exceptional.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Colorful harbors frame waterways where swimmers splash even in cool weather. Copenhagen embodies Scandinavian design principles with its clean lines, functionality, and beauty in everyday objects. Bicycles outnumber cars on streets designed for people rather than vehicles.
The food scene combines innovation with tradition, making this capital a paradise for foodies seeking new Nordic cuisine.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Colorful buildings cascade down seven hills toward the sparkling Tagus River. Lisbon captures hearts with its sunny disposition and laid-back atmosphere that feels refreshingly authentic.
Ride the iconic yellow trams through narrow streets, sample pastéis de nata in local bakeries, and listen for the melancholic sounds of fado music drifting from tavern doorways.
6. Rome, Italy
Ancient ruins stand proudly alongside bustling piazzas filled with locals and visitors alike. Rome layers history like no other city, with each street potentially hiding ruins from different eras beneath modern life.
Fountains provide refreshing soundtrack to city explorations. Rome invites you to wander without agenda, discovering hidden churches, perfect espresso, and locals passionately debating politics or football.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Fairytale spires pierce the sky above a city that seems frozen in time. Prague captivates visitors with its well-preserved medieval core and atmospheric bridges spanning the Vltava River. Affordable prices make extended stays possible for travelers on any budget.
The Czech capital rewards explorers with hidden courtyards, excellent beer gardens, and architectural styles ranging from Gothic to Art Nouveau.
8. Budapest, Hungary
Thermal baths offer relaxing retreats after days of urban exploration. Budapest straddles the mighty Danube River, with Buda’s hills providing dramatic viewpoints of Pest’s grand boulevards below. Ornate parliament buildings compete with castle districts for architectural splendor.
Budapest surprises visitors with its ruin bars—abandoned buildings transformed into quirky hangouts with mismatched furniture and artistic installations.
9. Berlin, Germany
Street art transforms ordinary walls into open-air galleries throughout diverse neighborhoods. Berlin embraces its complex history while constantly reinventing itself as a hub for artists, entrepreneurs, and free spirits. Remnants of the Wall stand as powerful reminders of divided times.
The German capital never sleeps, with clubs that open Friday and close Monday, world-class museums, and green spaces perfect for afternoon beers.
10. Edinburgh, Scotland
Medieval streets wind uphill toward an imposing castle perched on volcanic rock. Edinburgh balances its ancient character with a vibrant contemporary culture that comes alive during its famous festivals. Cozy pubs invite visitors to escape rainy days with a dram of whisky.
The city rewards those who explore its closes (narrow alleyways) with hidden gardens, literary connections, and stunning views of the city below.
11. Seville, Spain
Orange trees line streets where the scent of jasmine mingles with guitar melodies. Seville embodies southern Spain’s passionate spirit through flamenco performances, religious processions, and animated conversations over tapas.
Summer heat encourages slow-paced living and late dinners. This Andalusian city showcases spectacular Moorish architecture, particularly in the Real Alcázar palace with its intricate tilework and peaceful gardens.
12. Florence, Italy
Renaissance masterpieces fill museums and churches across this compact, walkable city. Florence sits beautifully along the Arno River, with red-tiled roofs creating a distinctive skyline dominated by Brunelleschi’s dome.
Artisan workshops keep traditional crafts alive in the Oltrarno district. Florence invites visitors to slow down, savor perfect gelato, and appreciate how one small city could produce so much beauty that changed the world.