European nations are often a testament to the glory of days long gone as there’s just so much history in the continent to marvel at. However, Europe is also famous for its stunning sceneries, relaxing beaches, excellent cuisines and a lot more. If you have plans of visiting the continent anytime soon, chances are that you will not be able to see every city worth visiting in the short time you have available. To make the best of what time you do have, make sure that your visits include at least a few of these:
Top ten cities in Europe
Madrid, Spain
The capital of Spain is well known for its year-round good weather, world’s best tapas and as one of the best spots in the entire world for shopping. If you are looking for history and culture, Madrid has the Plaza Mayor, the Plaza de Cibeles, the Temple of Debod and the Almudena Cathedral to mesmerize you. Couple all that with excellent local nightlife and Madrid becomes a must visit.
Prague,Czech Republic
Prague is a gorgeous city which is nothing short of an architectural wonder and one look at the city’s skyline will tell you that they don’t call it the City of a Hundred Spires for nothing! The sunsets in the city are amazing, the food is among the best in Europe, and everything feels much cheaper than it should!
Paris, France
If Paris was not on this list, the list would remain incomplete. In spite of the city being one of the most popular places in the whole world for more than a century, it continues to be a must see for anyone who has not been here before. If you are still looking for reasons, these would consist of the rich history, the exquisite art, the magnificent architecture, the sumptuous food, the best shopping, and the list goes on…
Istanbul, Turkey
The historical city of Istanbul stands in between Asia and Europe as the flowing waters of Bosphorus separates the two continents from each other. The cuisine in the city is more unique than anything you will find elsewhere in Europe because the Eastern and Western food cultures have collided and come together to produce them. Istanbul is naturally beautiful and brilliant pieces of architecture like the Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Sultanahmet Mosque stand testament to the city’s rich heritage.
Valletta, Malta
In terms of art and architecture, Valletta Malta is considered to be a Living Masterpiece. It’s kind of like an Italian city as one would guess, but much less crowded, more beautiful and has its own unique touches that set the smallest capital in Europe apart from just about every other place.
Porto, Portugal
A recent favourite for travellers, the city of Porto has more variety than the whole of Portugal. In particular, it has gained recent fame because the place has almost remained untouched by the ravages of time and 20th century destructions. Its rich heritage is apparent and visible everywhere as the artistic influences of Roman and medieval times are kept almost as they were back in the day. Recommended places to visit in the city include the Clerigos Tower, the Douro Valley and the city’s multiple wineries.
Kraków, Poland
If the lure of seeing Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the salt mines of Wieliczka isn’t enough, consider that Kraków also has an excellent café culture, throbbing nightlife and delicious cuisines, making sure that you will find something to your liking, whatever your preferences are.
Florence, Italy
The Renaissance changed the world forever and this is where it all started. It would be impossible to state everything that Florence has in store for its visitors, but if you do visit the Italian city, don’t forget to take a look at Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia or visit the street art of Clet Abraham.
San Sebastián, Spain
A popular place for surfers all across Europe, San Sebastián was titled the European Capital of Culture just last year. Aside from beautiful beaches and the cultural fiesta of La semana Grande, we would implore you to visit Gioerri for hiking through some of the most naturally beautiful scenery you will ever see anywhere in Europe. Plus, if you are looking for a place to try diving, San Sebastian has you covered, with secret caves, shipwrecks and beautiful reefs all waiting to be discovered.
London, UK
Just like Paris, it would be a shame to not include London on a list of must visit cities in Europe. If you have never seen Big Ben, London Bridge or Buckingham Palace even once in your life, you need to correct that immediately. It may not be similar to most of the cities mentioned here and is often seen as more of a place for business than a casual visit, but there’s enough history and attractions here to keep you mesmerized for weeks, if you know where to look.
Keep in mind that this list is in no particular order and if you want to prioritize one over the other, let that be based on your own personal preferences.
