Europe boasts many fascinating cities, from the bustling capital cities of Paris and Budapest to the historic cities of Florence and Dubrovnik. Many cities across the continent will leave you in awe, whether you’re visiting for the first time or have been there several times. If you’re planning a European holiday soon and seeking to explore the best cities, you’ve come to the right place. Below, check out the top 6 cities in Europe you must visit.
Paris, France
Paris is undoubtedly one of the world’s most famous cities, offering something for everyone. Your first trip to the city could be magical, but even if you have been here several times, there’s always something new to see and do.
Nothing beats the excitement of seeing the Eiffel Tower in all its glory, especially if it’s your first time. But do check out other famous attractions like the Louvre Museum and Arc de Triomphe.
Those who have been to Paris many times might be looking for other fun things to do other than seeing its iconic sights. You can stroll through the charming streets of the Marais neighbourhood, relax at the Luxembourg Gardens or Tuileries Garden, shop at the city’s bustling flea markets, and watch performances at The Moulin Rouge.
While The Louvre is the city’s most famous museum, you should also take the time to visit Musée d’Orsay and several other Paris museums with fascinating daily exhibits.
Lisbon, Portugal
CNN named Lisbon one of Europe’s coolest cities in 2017, and rightfully so. Portugal’s capital city features a perfect mix of old and new, exuding modern charms and boasting many historical treasures. Stick around for a couple of days to discover the best of Lisbon before moving on to the other cities. Stay in one of the excellent rental villas in Portugal, with some located close to Lisbon.
If you’re visiting for the first time, it’s worth seeing the city’s highlights, such as the Belem Tower, São Jorge Castle, and the Ribeira Market. Taking the iconic tram is also a must. It travels to a hilly part of the city, along historic streets, providing a fantastic vantage point of Lisbon’s charming neighbourhoods.
No visit to Lisbon is complete without sampling the tastiest Portuguese cuisines, including bacalhau, a salted cod, and a local favourite. When it’s time for dessert, indulge in pastéis de nata, a delectable egg custard tart.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, a city you should see at least once in your life. It boasts art nouveau-style architecture, delicious cuisines, and majestic buildings dating from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. While in Budapest, some of the top attractions you should not miss are St Stephen’s Basilica, Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, and Castle Hill.
Budapest is magnificently beautiful, guaranteed to capture your heart as you arrive. Aside from the majestic buildings, the scenic Danube River and the gorgeous green spaces make Budapest even more attractive.
Another reason to visit Budapest is its numerous fun events, from music festivals to concerts and market fairs. Some of its most famous events include the Sziget Festival, one of Europe’s largest music and cultural festivals. You should also witness the annual Danube Carnival, which features a range of folk and world music, contemporary and traditional dance shows, and concerts.
Istanbul, Turkey
There are countless reasons to visit Istanbul. Aside from its rich history, it has breathtaking scenery, beautiful architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisines. With so many things to explore in the city, there will always be something to look forward to on your every visit. Make the most of your holiday by booking some excellent tours in Turkey, the perfect way to discover more cities in a single trip.
Istanbul is a city of contrasts, where modern skyscrapers stand next to ancient old buildings, including mosques, synagogues, and churches. The city has an impressive cultural heritage, which you can discover by visiting places like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
You can indulge in various cuisines in Istanbul, ranging from authentic Ottoman food to typical Turkish dishes, including mouth-watering mezes and meats. The best way to cap your meal and satisfy your sweet tooth is with delectable Turkish delights.
Florence, Italy
Dubbed the “Cradle Land of the Renaissance,” Florence is simply stunning. It’s a city where you can immerse yourself in Italian culture and history through its fascinating sights and architecture. Stroll through the city’s cobblestone streets, where you’ll find charming piazzas, world-class museums, and great restaurants serving delectable Tuscan cuisine.
Florence’s biggest draw is art. Millions flock to its streets yearly to admire the remarkable work of historical artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Florence was a Roman city that later evolved into a vibrant mediaeval community. Florence is now a significant tourist hub, home to some of Italy’s most
iconic historical and cultural sites, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Uffizi Gallery, and Piazzale Michelangelo.
Another reason to visit Florence is to sample the tastiest Tuscan wines. You can try an abundant choice of wine in Florence and visit a vineyard to learn more about wine production.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubbed the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient walls and labyrinth of cobblestone streets lined with red-roofed buildings. Founded by the Romans, the picturesque city dates back to the 7th Century.
Dubrovnik’s most well-known landmark is its historic walls, which date back to the 14th Century. Climb to the top of the walls, where you can admire the breathtaking city views with the Adriatic Sea as the backdrop. The city is also a haven for foodies, with fresh seafood, wine, and olive oil being the main highlights of its culinary scene.
Since Dubrovnik has a strategic position in the Adriatic Sea, it’s an ideal hub for island hopping in Croatia. If you don’t want to travel far, you can visit the nearby island of Lopud, which exudes a more laid-back feel and has an excellent variety of cafés, beautiful beaches, and water sports facilities.
