Europe is a treasure trove of captivating destinations, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, there is something in Europe that will enchant you. In this guide, we will explore some of the best places to visit in Europe, highlighting their key attractions and why they should be on your travel bucket list.
Table of Contents
27 of the best places to visit in Europe – Lonely Planet
Best Places to visit in Europe:
1. Paris, France
No list of the best places to visit in Europe is complete without mentioning Paris. Known as the “City of Light,” Paris is renowned for its romantic ambiance, world-class art museums, and iconic landmarks.
Key Attractions:
- Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Take an elevator ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
- Louvre Museum: Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: A stunning example of French Gothic architecture, this cathedral is a must-visit.
2. Rome, Italy
Rome, the “Eternal City,” is another of the best places to visit in Europe. Its history spans over two millennia, and it is filled with ancient ruins, majestic monuments, and vibrant piazzas.
Key Attractions:
- Colosseum: This iconic amphitheater is a symbol of ancient Rome’s grandeur.
- Vatican City: Home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, this tiny city-state is the heart of the Catholic Church.
- Pantheon: An architectural marvel, this former Roman temple is now a church.
3. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a vibrant city known for its unique blend of modernism and medieval architecture. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Sagrada Família: Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece, this basilica is a must-see.
- Park Güell: Another Gaudí creation, this park offers whimsical architecture and stunning city views.
- La Rambla: A bustling street perfect for a leisurely stroll and people-watching.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, historic houses, and vibrant cultural scene, making it one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Anne Frank House: Visit the secret annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary during World War II.
- Rijksmuseum: This museum houses an extensive collection of Dutch art and history.
- Van Gogh Museum: Dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh, it’s a must-visit for art lovers.
5. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. This island is one of the best places to visit in Europe for a romantic getaway.
Key Attractions:
- Oia: Famous for its beautiful sunsets and charming streets.
- Fira: The island’s capital, offering stunning views of the caldera.
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site: An ancient Minoan city preserved in volcanic ash.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a city of fairy tales, with its stunning architecture, historic sites, and vibrant culture. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Prague Castle: The largest ancient castle in the world.
- Charles Bridge: A historic bridge adorned with statues.
- Old Town Square: Home to the famous Astronomical Clock.
7. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is one of the best places to visit in Europe for its stunning medieval architecture and crystal-clear waters.
Key Attractions:
- City Walls: Walk along the ancient walls for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site with charming streets and historic buildings.
- Lokrum Island: A short boat ride away, perfect for a day trip.
8. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its imperial history, grand palaces, and vibrant cultural scene, making it one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Schönbrunn Palace: The former summer residence of the Habsburgs.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the city.
- Belvedere Palace: Home to an impressive collection of Austrian art.
9. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, with its stunning architecture and rich history, is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Edinburgh Castle: Perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Royal Mile: A historic street running through the heart of the Old Town.
- Arthur’s Seat: A hill with hiking trails and breathtaking views.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, with its colorful neighborhoods and vibrant culture, is one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Belém Tower: A historic tower offering stunning views of the Tagus River.
- Jerónimos Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture.
- Alfama District: A charming neighborhood with narrow streets and Fado music.
11. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents, offering a unique blend of European and Asian cultures. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe for its rich history and vibrant culture.
Key Attractions:
- Hagia Sophia: A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
- Blue Mosque: Known for its stunning blue tiles.
- Topkapi Palace: The former residence of Ottoman sultans.
12. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a city of stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich history, making it one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Buda Castle: Offering panoramic views of the city.
- Chain Bridge: A historic bridge connecting Buda and Pest.
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath: One of the largest thermal bath complexes in Europe.
13. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, making it one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Blue Lagoon: A geothermal spa with milky blue waters.
- Hallgrímskirkja: A unique church offering stunning city views.
- Golden Circle: A popular tourist route featuring geysers, waterfalls, and national parks.
14. Florence, Italy
Florence is a city of art and history, home to some of the world’s most famous masterpieces. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe for art lovers and history buffs.
Key Attractions:
- Uffizi Gallery: Home to works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
- Duomo: A stunning cathedral with a magnificent dome.
- Ponte Vecchio: A historic bridge lined with shops.
15. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its imperial history, grand palaces, and vibrant cultural scene, making it one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Schönbrunn Palace: The former summer residence of the Habsburgs.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the city.
- Belvedere Palace: Home to an impressive collection of Austrian art.
16. Athens, Greece
Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is one of the best places to visit in Europe for its ancient history and vibrant culture.
Key Attractions:
- Acropolis: A historic site with ancient ruins, including the Parthenon.
- Plaka: A charming neighborhood with narrow streets and traditional tavernas.
- National Archaeological Museum: Home to an extensive collection of ancient Greek artifacts.
17. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a fairy-tale city with its cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque canals. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe for a romantic getaway.
Key Attractions:
- Belfry of Bruges: A historic bell tower offering stunning views of the city.
- Canal Tour: Explore the city by boat for a unique perspective.
- Market Square: A bustling square with historic buildings and charming cafes.
18. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a city of islands, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Gamla Stan: The historic old town with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings.
- Vasa Museum: Home to a well-preserved 17th-century ship.
- Skansen: An open-air museum showcasing Swedish history and culture.
19. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a city of charming canals, historic buildings, and vibrant culture, making it one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Nyhavn: A picturesque harbor with colorful buildings and boats.
- Tivoli Gardens: One of the world’s oldest amusement parks.
- The Little Mermaid: A famous statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale.
20. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and historic old town. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe.
Key Attractions:
- Lake Zurich: A beautiful lake perfect for a leisurely boat ride.
- Old Town: A charming area with narrow streets and historic buildings.
- Swiss National Museum: Home to an extensive collection of Swiss artifacts.
Best Places To Visit In May Outside India – Easytraveljourney.com
Conclusion
Europe is a continent of endless possibilities, with each city offering its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you are exploring the romantic streets of Paris, the ancient ruins of Rome, or the stunning landscapes of Santorini, you are sure to create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the best places to visit in Europe!
2 thoughts on “20 Best Places to visit in Europe”