Discover the 19 Best Places to Visit in Europe: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

A bucket with an abundance of delicacies adding a blend of diverse cultures and dialects, boasting one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Europe is a "sphere of stimulation." These attributes result in luring around 700 million tourists on an annual basis (as per the 2023 report), flourishing the tourism sector. The craving to explore this continent is significant; no wanderer has escaped this adventurous trap. It is high time to come out of your mundane life and pull back the curtains of the second-smallest continent, Europe. 

19 Best European Destinations You Can't Miss

1. London, United Kingdom

London is the largest and Capital city of both England and the United Kingdom perched on the River Thames. Primarily, it was given the name "Londinium" by the Romans (who discovered London), and later, it was renamed. It is a leading city boasting several strengths, including commerce, education, fashion, finance, art, healthcare, research and development, tourism, and transport. The most highlighted characteristics of this beautiful city are diverse culture, languages (More than 300 languages are spoken), and landmarks. While in London, be sure to visit landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the historic Tower of London, which are steeped in the city’s rich history. 

If you're planning a visit to london, don't miss out on exploring the Top 10 best places to go in London for a truly unforgettable experience.

2. Paris, France

The fashion capital of Europe, Paris, is one of the booming cities, brimming with modern crowds and culture. It is also the most populous city and home to the Seine River, situated in the north of the country. This city has a fairly temperate climate, giving you magnificent views of its architectural buildings and staying on top of every traveler's list, especially in spring and winter. In a nutshell, this city is appreciated for the scope of businesses and commerce, including culture, study, art, and the list goes on. It has three main parts, classified by its River Seine, for example, Ile de la Cite (at its center, religious seat), river's left side is the intellectual life seat, whereas on its right, there is a River Droite, it is the Economy center. Along with its thriving culture and economy, Paris offers world-famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the breathtaking Notre-Dame Cathedral, which continue to captivate visitors from around the world.

If you're planning your trip and want to make the most of your time, be sure to check out beautiful places to visit in Paris for an in-depth guide to the city's must-see destinations.

3. Rome, Italy

The "Eternal City," Rome, is one of the most-liked cities. Its geographical location has a unique characteristic due to which it is also referred to as the "City of Seven Hills." The climate of this region is generally hot and has dry summer days; however, the land quickly gets called in the noon period by the "ponentino" (west wind that rises from the Tyrrhenian Sea). Here, you will explore one of the greatest buildings, including the Roman Catholic Church, different sites of major artistic and intellectual achievement pinnacles, etc. Rome's must-see sites include the iconic Colosseum, the religious and artistic wonders of Vatican City, and the beautiful Trevi Fountain, all of which reflect the city’s timeless charm. 

For a more detailed guide on exploring the city, check out Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Rome.

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a city and port in the Netherlands, nestled on the Ijsselmeer and connected to the North Sea. This city is brimming with historical collections, great art, delicacies, and, let's not forget, diverse languages. It is the nominal capital of the Netherlands; regardless of this, it lures millions of tourists on an annual basis. Based on certain reports, Amsterdam suffered less damage during World War II, and as time passed, it was significantly developing all the necessary options for its dwellers, and indirectly, all these factors contributed to the growth of the tourist sector. 

5. Barcelona, Spain

This city is located 90 miles south of the French border and the capital of Barcelona Province and Catalonia. Don't turn a blind eye to Spain's major Mediterranean port in Barcelona only. If you visit this place, gear up to explore the physical beauty, cultural interest, and individuality. Moreover, Hans Christian Anderen (1862) stated that Barcelona used to be the "Paris of Spain." In the modern-day, it boasts a wide range of libraries, museums, and buildings of interest featuring Modernist and Art nouveau decor and architecture.

For a more detailed guide on Barcelona, Check out Top 12 Places to Visit in Barcelona

6. Prague, Czech Republic

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, is the epitome of culture, and its world-renowned architectural attractions are one of the many highlights. With a rich history and a mixture of modernity and ancient times, some places may take you back to medieval times. This city is spread over its hills, up river valleys, and along riverside terraces, thus allowing several tourists to spend their days well. This place has a homogenous population, and women are in higher numbers than men. The best time to visit this place is believed to be during the summer so you can explore your surroundings well. In Prague, don’t miss Prague Castle, the historic Charles Bridge, and the enchanting Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock, all of which contribute to its captivating medieval charm.

7. Krakow, Poland

Krakow is one of the largest cities in Poland. It is the economic and political center and the major trading point between England and Hungary. It is also the capital of Malapolskkie, and geographically, it lies on both sides of the upper Vistula River. Moreover, the primary cause of liking this place by many is its grand historic architecture and Cultural leadership. UNESCO nominated its old town area as a "World Heritage Site" in 1978.  As per reports, this place is visited by around 11 million people on an annual basis, however, now the tourism sector is booming by leaps and bounds. 

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava, is a modern city nestled in the uttermost southern part of the country. It is the seat of Comenius University, the Slovak Academy of Sciences, several specialized schools and technical institutes, and more. Once you hop around the city, you will experience the enormous castle perched on a plateau (100 m) right above the Danube. Due to climate change, the climatic conditions of this place have shifted into the humid subtropical one. This town is not so big, yet the best to hop around and explore its natural beauties. 

9. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is the largest and capital city of Romania, situated in the southeast of the country. It is home to the River Dambovita and is the 8th most populous city in the European Union. If you are visiting this place, don't turn a blind eye to its prominent delicacies, including Scovergi, Mici, Papanasi, and Sarmale. Let's not forget the Romanian Wine that will make your visit worthwhile. Here, the temperature hardly exceeds 35 degrees Celsius, and precipitation and thunderstorm activities occur quite often. Being in Bucharest is more like being in a tree home away from the home.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

If anyone searches for the cleanest, safest, and greenest city in Europe, Reykjavik will come to the top of the list. It is Iceland's capital and largest city, situated on the Seltjarnar Peninsula at the southeastern corner of Faxa Bay. The city's name is a translation of the word "Bay of Smokes." As per the current data, the total number of foreign visitors saw a huge increase, by 146% for the year 2021 as compared to 2021, and this number is growing continuously. In a nutshell, this place is suitable for all families and groups of friends, as you can find plenty of picturesque spots. 

11. Stockholm, Sweden

The city of Stockholm is developed on a series of islands, including the mainland of Uppland and Sodermanland. It is also the capital and largest city of Sweden, where summers are partly cloudy, and winters are freezing and snowy. This makes it the most preferable spot for many tourists. The leading industrial areas currently include metal, machine manufacturing, paper, printing, chemicals, etc. Not only this, it is the primary education center in Sweden boasting Stockholm University, The Royal Institute of Technology, and the Caroline Medical Institute. Stockholm's main attractions include the Royal Palace, the charming old town of Gamla Stan, and the maritime marvel of the Vasa Museum.

12. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark, situated on the islands of Zeland and Amager. Its mouth-watering delicacies lure millions of tourists from all over the world. It is no news that Copenhagen consistently ranks high in world rankings for its livability, enterprise, gastronomy, and sustainability skills, for example, a frequent top-scorer on the UN World Happiness City Index. This city is home to several top-notch architectures and timeless interior design evoking humanistic principles. Once you go out of the country, this place will leave a permanent impression in your mind. 

13. Edinburgh, Scotland

Land of Castles and Fairies, Edinburgh, the Capital City of Scotland, is nestled in the southeastern region. Its tall infrastructure will drift you back to Scottish history and being settled among crags and hills gives it an upper hand above all other existing places. With a touch of villages, its aesthetic ambiance attracts millions of tourists from around the world almost every year. The 19th-century Scottish novelist Robert Louis Stevenson described this city as "This profusion of eccentricities, this dream is masonry, and living rock is not a drop-scene in a theatre." 

14. Athens, Greece

The originator of artistic ideas and the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens is a historic city and the capital of Greece. Its geographical position (8 km from the Bay of Phaleron, an inlet of the Aegean Sea, and the port of Athens) is the top reason for tourists to visit and witness the remarkable landmarks. Its streets brim with eclectic food and musical air, leaving behind a strong imprint on passers-by. The dramatic makeover in 2004 swapped the world off their feet. Post the Olympic Games, the massive transformation in infrastructure, including public transportation and a new International airport, made it a today's world antique. 

15. Lisbon, Portugal

With an eclectic climate, be it rainy, winter, summer, or spring, the capital city of Portugal is always a hot topic among travelers. It is the westernmost capital city in continental Europe. Keeping the modern trend up to date, Lisbon still breathes out the air of a 19th-century. The streets are dressed with long black skirts carrying baskets on their heads. As many Lisbon Dwellers or Lisboetas claim, this city has seven traditional hills, just like Rome. The modernization, however, has not impacted specific regions, mainly in the historic quarters of Alfama and Bairro, where, along with their traditional cuisines, some deeply emotional folk songs are served. 

16. Florence, Italy

Florence is the capital of Firenze and Toscana, central Italy. As far as its geographical state is concerned, it is nestled at the Northwestern side of Rome and is surrounded by hills that brim with eclectic villas, farms, orchards, and vineyards, setting the remarkable agrarian sight. It boasts a historic center that was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1982. A special thanks to its climate, where you can experience hot summers along with cold and wet winters, giving tourists another reason to visit and get remarkable memories.

17. Vienna, Austria

Austria's capital, Vienna, is a blend of diverse cultures, music, and other charm. You will be mesmerized by the views of different green fields and rolling vineyards, including magnificent buildings; certainly, these are the things Vienna is known for. Many different places, including Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, etc., lure many of the tourists from the globe to spend vacations happily with their families and known ones. Nevertheless, out of the available country's nine states, Vienna is the smallest in area but the largest in the context of population.  

18. Berlin, Germany

The Capital City of Germany, Berlin, is a brimming Metropolitan City diversely showcasing every field. It is located at the heart of the North German Plain with a Berlin-Brandenburg gate entrance. One of the main reasons to hit this spot is its numerous bear gardens, endless rows of museums, and art galleries representing history in a comprehensible way. This capital city is also nominated for the accolade of "UNESCO City of Design." Not only this, apart from tourism, it also lures students as it boasts world-class educational institutes, including Berlin University. In Oktoberfest, Berlin is swarming with tourists in search of late-night parties and a variety of wines.

19. Budapest, Hungary

This city, Budapest, is referred to as the "Queen of the Danube." The capital of Hungary, Budapest, is also the country's political, administrative, industrial, and commercial center. If you visit the spot, you will experience the blend of culture, art, and whatnot. The delicacies will lure you and your appetite to Budapest restaurants and street stalls. As far as its climate is concerned, rainfall is abundant, and the annual temperature is low. In winter, the streets are lined with snowfall at a temperature of 5 degrees below. 

When is the Best Time to Travel to Europe?

No matter how nicely you plan your trip, search for affordable flights, and visit the most renowned tourist locations, if you opt for the inappropriate travel month, your entire tour will automatically degrade. This is why choosing the correct travel season is crucial to ensure you enjoy your trip to its fullest. Below are the pointers you should keep in mind when deciding your Europe tour timings:

Best Seasons to Visit Europe

• Peak Season: May to September is considered the peak season to visit Europe because it offers long days, enchanting nightlife, and sunny weather. The passenger volume and the ticket costs are high, so it is perfect for travelers who want to experience the most out of their trip.
• Off-Season: The off-season is the best time for budget-conscious tourists to visit Europe because it provides lower traveler traffic and flight fares. November to March is considered off-season because of its short days and freezing winters. So, this period would be best for you if you want cheap flight fares and the cold does not bother you much.
• Shoulder Season: If you want the best of both worlds, reduced flight fares, and ideal weather conditions, you fly to Europe during the shoulder seasons. April and October have decent weather and fewer crowds, and the flight fare is relatively cheaper.

>>Learn More 7 Best European Cities to Visit in December for Winter Magic

Popular Travel Months to Visit Europe

• February: Visiting Europe during February will make your trip the best experience because it is the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland. Also, one of Europe’s largest carnivals, the Carnival of Venice, takes place in February.
• July: Besides February, planning your trip to July is also ideal because you can easily find pocket-friendly flights, and the climatic conditions are pleasant. Moreover, July is full of various festivals, such as the EXIT Festival, Awakenings, ULTRA Europe, and many others.

Travel Tips for Visiting Europe

Most tourists skip contemplating their travel essentials, such as document requirements, often leading to inconveniences, like needing help finding a reasonable conveyance. To ensure your travel is immaculately planned and you avoid all sorts of hassle, please refer to the pointers below. These methods discuss finding suitable transportation facilities, budgeting techniques, and necessary travel documents.

How to get around in Europe?

• Flight Connectivity: Through the flight service, tourists can not only fly to/from Europe but also travel within the continent and visit its different nations. Some major European airports include Heathrow Airport, Charles de Gaulle Airport, Munich Airport, etc. Various airlines, such as Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France, Air Europa, etc., serve this continent.
• Bus Connectivity: You can also explore Europe and commute by bus in different countries and cities. Numerous bus companies, such as FlixBus, Ouibus, Eurolines, and many others, offer buses for various routes across this continent.
• Railway Connectivity: Europe is densely connected to the railway network and offers various railroads across its major countries and cities. Some major railway organizations include Eurostar, Deutsch Bahn, SNCF, and many more.

Budgeting Tips

• Affordable Flights: One of the best ways to save money on travel is to search for budget-friendly flights. You can find affordable flights to Europe through various methods, such as using credit cards or vouchers for ticket purchases for discounts and deals, booking your flight in advance, preferring red-eye flights, etc.
• Controlled Expenditure: Spending loads of money on your trip does not equate to immense enjoyment. You can also have the best Europe tour on a lower budget. To make your trip budget-friendly, choose inexpensive accommodations, restaurants, and transportation that offer high-quality service.
• Travel Month: If you want to travel to Europe on a budget, the best option is to plan your trip during the off-season. Flight fares during the off-season are relatively cheaper, November to March is an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers.

Visa and ETIAS Requirements for U.S. Travelers

• Travelers must possess a valid, machine-readable e-passport, which must be valid for the duration of their stay in Europe.
• ETIAS authorization is permitted for short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism, transit, business, and medical purposes.
• The ETIAS allows tourists of all age groups, and applicants under 18 or over 70 are eligible for a fee waiver.
• For ETIAS, U.S. travelers must have full American citizenship and apply for it at least 96 hours before the flight departure.

Hidden Gems in Europe You Must Know

Do you want to take your trip to the next level and would love to explore some new and riveting places? If yes, you must include those destinations in your Europe tour plan that are yet to be discovered by the visitors but are incredibly fascinating. Below are some European tourist spots with less tourist volume but worth your visit. Please go through the mentioned destinations, and select the ones that suit you the most.

Off-the-beaten-path destinations

• Slovenia is one of the underrated countries for tourism. It is situated in Central Europe, and you will be immensely amazed to visit it. Slovenia consists of everything a tourist aspires to on his trip, including picturesque landscapes, natural beauty, adventure sports, and charming culture.
• Bulgaria is the most livable country in Southeastern Europe. Visiting Bulgaria is affordable and enjoyable because it offers awesome beaches and scenic mountains. Moreover, Bulgaria's specialty lies in its cuisine, so you must taste its mouthwatering delicacies.
• Belgium consists of some of Europe’s great medieval cities, making it a perfect place for history enthusiasts to tour. It offers Renaissance architecture, prestigious art cities, and exuberant culture. Their cuisine is exceptionally delicious and exciting, and you must taste their national dish, “Steak and fries.”
• Bosnia and Herzegovina: The people of Bosnia and Herzegovina are incredibly welcoming and friendly. This country is fond of sports and adventurous activities, such as skiing, hiking, snowboarding, etc. Also, it offers visitors a great view of calm rivers and sky-touching mountains.
• Luxembourg is a small European country but worth visiting. It houses some of the oldest cities, offering ancient monuments, fascinating castles, and delicious wine. All its tourist destinations are short distances, so you can easily explore this country within a limited duration.

Conclusion

This article described Europe’s exceptional tourism potential and how you can make your trip to Europe the best traveling experience ever. Once you read the above information, it will be quite evident that Europe provides some of the best destinations to explore and an immense variety that caters to all kinds of tourists.