Picking the top European cities to visit is as tempting, if not more so than picking out the best candy in a big store – no easy task. Europe explodes with cool stuff such as history, culture, and positive energy. Thus, there are so many great cities each with its own flavor. Let’s look at the elite.
European cities are superheroes because they have many strengths – lots of history, cool culture, and fantastic buildings. You can walk along streets that seem to have come straight out of a fairytale and hang out in homely cafes. However, both lovers of famous monuments and people who just need to get a feel for the place will find something in European cities.
The problem, however, is that with so many cities it’s like having too much choice in an ice cream store. Which one do you choose?
Well, we’ve got your back. We selected these European cities since they are a collection of all the best things: cute, steeped in history, various moods, and tons of culture. It’s like a blend of the best flavors in one scoop.
- Andalucia, Spain: A Sunny Summer Haven
Spain’s Andalucia region, best known for its beautiful beaches, is the “go-to” destination when traveling to Europe during summer because it offers a brilliant holiday. In Andalucia, which is located in the southern part of Spain, there exists a natural beauty with whitewashed villages that are suitably buried under sunshine.
In Andalucia, the most popular site for a summer vacation in Europe is known as Costa del Sol which lies between Malaga and Gibraltar. Here, you will observe some of the best sand beaches in Europe which is a rather rarity for most people since there are not many sandy shores to meet their expectations (although pebble ones aren’t bad as well).
Cool is that an Andalucia vacation won’t cost an arm and leg when compared to coastal resorts in France or Italy.
Although the cities of Andalucia’s inland such as Seville and Granada (with its most substantial tourist attraction – Alhambra) are extremely hot during summer, it would be still reasonable to consider them for your journey southward if you fancy some heat!
- Vienna, Austria: A Historical Hub in Central Europe
Vienna, Austria is like a hub of history right in Central Europe. Picture this: It has everything an old-fashioned street needs, the charming buildings all over it, and with its eye you might expect Mozart or Freud to say ‘Guten tag’ in a local café.
Culture lovers should definitely travel to Vienna. It has that touch of enchantment, from ostentatious Schönbrunn Palace to the grand Hofburg Palace and neatly groomed gardens.
However, Vienna is not simply a place for music and kings. It is also a nice spot for bibliophiles where there are many independent bookstores. And guess what? Kids have their fair share as well, with entertaining parks and a much cooler zoo. Although Viennese are known to go home early, you don’t have. There are many bars and wine places for the daring ones.
- Berlin, Germany: The Cool Capital with a Welcoming Vibe
One of the hippest cities in Europe is Berlin; it is often referred to as “the cool capital” and has a very welcoming atmosphere. It is known for its great nightlife – noisy and hip bars or clubs where you could have a riot. However, it is not only about partying; Berlin has some nice parks and historical sites.
In the last few years, a lot has changed in this city as new buildings have been constructed all over. However, it remains in the past as with the Berlin Wall and Holocaust Memorial. If you like art, the ‘East Side Gallery’ is on a section of the Berlin Wall that amounts to an outdoor gallery. Alternatively, visit museums to understand the history of Berlin.
Berlin is great because it combines cultures. This is evident not only through its architecture and history but also in the food and culture scene. All ages are encouraged within this city, and there’s something for everyone. Berlin has that Welcome feel which is somehow a combination of innovation and aging, hence making it an exclusive delight.
- London, England: The Iconic Movie Star City
London is a popular movie star city. It is known for the Big Ben and Tower of London, which are very easy to identify. However, there’s much more to it – the city is a capital of art and culture and most of its museums allow free admission.
London is like a melting pot of cultures. There are stunning cafes, restaurants, and bars from all over the world around here. And in terms of shopping, it is one of the best places in Europe.
Regardless of your preference, whether is sports or theater and cool buildings or musicals even royal family London has something for everyone. You can also dive into the world of Harry Potter. Basically, it is a city with just about everything; hence one of the best places to see in Europe.
- Algarve, Portugal: A Gem in the Southwest
Located at the southwest end of Portugal, Algarve was once a hidden countryside summer spot in Europe; now it is gaining popularity, even among tourists.
However, the Algarve is loved for its beauty, not too expensive although prices rise with fame and fantastic rocks along its coast. Also, there are towns like Lagos as well as beautiful cities such as Faro and lots of sandy beaches. However, the unique features of cool caves, arches, and rocky cliffs that give the Algarve a distinct advantage over other summer destinations within Europe is what truly makes it special.
Do not forget to go on the wonderful Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, where you will see the famous Praia do Marinha and one of the super big caves – Benagil Cave! The beaches around the Algarve are usually decent, but the water can often feel a little more brisk than in other summer destinations. If you are used to the warmer waters, it might seem a little cold!
- Florence, Italy: A Charming City in the Heart of Tuscany
Florence is a beautiful and historic city snug in the gentle hills of Tuscany. It is like a ride in time back to the Renaissance age when influential families such as the Medici were buzzing with life and creators like Michelangelo or Brunelleschi found their inspiration. For art lovers, Florence is a paradise.
See yourself strolling along the charming lanes, among hip locals and funky stores. It is as if one is going back to the 14th century because of the timeless edifices that decorate every nook.
Florence is more than a top art destination; it’s home to spectacular sunsets, scrumptious dishes, and light romance. The place is a fusion of history and art, where anyone looking for both should go.
- Budapest, Hungary: A Charming Economic Hub
Budapest is the capital and largest city of Hungary as well as one of the major settlements in the EU. It has such cool places as the Hungarian Parliament Building and Gellért Hill, where you can get breathtaking views of the city and the River Danube.
This city is known for its nightlife, particularly the ruined bar area with many bars and clubs. Budapest is also famous for its culture, food, and wine. They have some of the best museums, especially for those who are into travel photography.
More than half of the monetary value in Hungary passes through Budapest as an economic heavyweight. Whatever your interests are, this is a city that will cast its spell on you.
