The Best European Cities to Visit in 2024

Europe is a continent rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in the world.

Whether you’re looking to explore iconic cities, charming towns, or breathtaking natural landscapes, Europe has it all.

As we look forward to 2024, it’s never too early to start planning your next vacation in Europe and tick off some of the most iconic European destinations on your bucket list.

From the must-see UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the most beautiful places in Europe, there are countless cities to visit and towns to explore.

In this article, we’ll highlight the Best European Cities to Visit in 2024, ranging from the romantic canals of Venice to the stunning fjords of Norway.

So, get ready to pack your bags and go on an unforgettable European adventure.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the most vibrant cities in Spain and Europe and a must-visit destination.

Home to Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece Sagrada Familia and iconic Las Ramblas, Barcelona offers amazing architecture, world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife all within walking distance of each other.

Be sure to visit Park Güell for gorgeous views of the city and stroll down Las Ramblas, stopping along the way at street performers and vendors.

Florence, Italy

The cultural heart of the Renaissance should be at the top of any European itinerary.

Nestled on the banks of the Arno River in Italy, Florence is home to some of the most stunning architectural gems you’ll ever lay eyes on.

Take the Duomo, Basilica di Santa Croce, and Ponte Vecchio, for example—each one more impressive than the last.

Spend your days wandering along quiet medieval streets, taking in world-famous sculptures in the Uffizi Gallery, and relaxing in Piazzale Michelangelo with panoramic views of the city.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Known for its picturesque canals, Amsterdam, the beautiful city of the Netherlands, is a delight to explore by foot or boat.

Stroll through Dam Square and its colorful tulip market, or visit some of the city’s many museums, like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

Be sure to try some Dutch delicacies, like stroopwafels or herring on white bread.

You’ll also want to check out the Red Light District in the evening and relax in one of the many coffee shops.

Lisbon, Portugal

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Venice, Italy

Romantic Venice, Italy, should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Explore this 122-island city by boat along its famous canals and on foot down narrow alleyways.

Be sure to visit iconic landmarks like Piazza San Marco, the Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge.

You’ll also want to spend time relaxing in one of the many squares, sipping an Aperol spritz as you take in the unique sights and sounds of this floating city.

Opt to visit in the spring or fall to avoid the largest summer crowds.

Santorini, Greece

With its whitewashed churches perched on volcanic caldera cliffs and incredible blue-domed views of the Aegean, Santorini, Greece, is surely one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

The island’s picturesque towns of Oia and Fira are built into the volcanic rock high above the caldera.

Be sure to watch the spectacular sunset and visit the archaeological remains of ancient Thera.

You’ll also want to spend your days swimming in the caldera’s thermal hot springs or on the stunning black-sand beaches.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s historic center is often called the most beautiful in Europe thanks to its striking Old Town Square, majestic Charles Bridge, and enchanting architecture spanning many centuries.

Wander down cobbled lanes, peek inside Gothic churches, and snap pictures of stunning vistas, including views from the top of Prague Castle.

Try authentic Czech treats like Trdelník pastries and Pilsner beers while enjoying the fairytale ambiance.

Rome, Italy

Rome, the capital of Italy, offers some of the most iconic sights in the world, including the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain.

Whether you’re exploring ruins, churches, or art museums, you’ll experience over two millennia of history at every turn.

Soak up the Dolce Vita lifestyle by people-watching from a sidewalk café in Campo de Fiori.

And be sure to allow plenty of time to get lost amid the maze of narrow alleyways known as the Centro Storico.

Paris, France

The “City of Light” needs no introduction, but visiting Paris, France, is sure to take your breath away.

Admire iconic sights in equal measure, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, and ornate buildings along the Champs Elysées.

Indulge in croissants and café au lait while people watch along the Seine River.

Make sure to plan for visits to the Louvre and other top museums, as tickets often sell out.

And save time to explore charming neighborhoods like Montmartre and the Latin Quarter.

Greek Islands

Greece’s Mediterranean islands of Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Corfu are picture-perfect paradises.

White-washed villages, shimmering azure waters, and warm, sunny weather await.

Santorini captivates with its volcanic caldera cliffs. Mykonos draws party lovers to beach bars, and colorful chapels dot its hills.

Rhodes offers medieval Old Town walls, antique mosques, and woodlands. Corfu blends Italian and Greek influences with Venetian architecture.

Swim in the crystal-clear waters and relax with fresh seafood and Greek dishes.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh impresses with its dramatic castle perched high over the city, gorgeous gardens, and charming Old Town area brimming with history.

Stroll along cobbled streets, then visit iconic landmarks like the Palace of Holyroodhouse or galleries housing famous works by Scottish artists.

In August, catch some of the festivities during the Edinburgh Fringe Arts Festival, one of the world’s largest arts festivals.

Be sure to try haggis, stroll along the botanical gardens, and hike up Arthur’s Seat for views stretching for miles.

Berlin, Germany

Dynamic Berlin seduces with a vibrant cultural scene amid its historic sites and diverse neighborhoods.

Check out iconic landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, and Reichstag building.

Experience remnants of the Cold War by touring sections of the Berlin Wall and checkpoint Charlie.

Enjoy a meal amid the hipster cafes and shops of Kreuzberg, then check out the edgy street art in gritty Friedrichshain.

This bustling city continues to grow daily and is a top place to experience all that Europe offers.

London, England

As one of the world’s most visited cities, London has so much historical charm alongside modern flare.

Iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge are must-see attractions.

Be sure to set aside time to explore Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park for peaceful relaxation in lush green spaces.

The West End theatre district offers iconic plays and musicals nightly, while the British Museum houses globally significant artifacts from across the centuries.

Underground via the tube is an efficient way to get around, but also consider sightseeing by boat down the River Thames for panoramic city views.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin seduces visitors with its lively pub culture, literary history, and gorgeous Georgian architecture.

Trinity College houses the iconic Book of Kells manuscript, while St. Patrick’s Cathedral boasts impressive craftsmanship.

Check out landmarks like Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle as you meander cobblestone streets past colorful shopfronts.

For a quintessential Irish experience, plan to visit one of Dublin’s many iconic pubs to catch live traditional music over pints of Guinness.

You’ll also want to head to the Guinness Storehouse to learn how the famous dark stout is brewed and taste samples along the way.

Vienna, Austria

Grand Imperial Vienna impresses visitors with its opulent Habsburg-era palaces, lush Danube riverside parks, and world-renowned classical music scene.

Top attractions include the incredible Schönbrunn Palace grounds, the Baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its striking spires, and opera houses like the Staatsoper.

Taking a stroll along the elegant Ringstrasse boulevard offers stunning architecture from various eras.

Be sure to spend an afternoon watching people in one of the tree-lined parks or relaxing over coffee and pastries in a traditional Viennese café.

Budapest, Hungary

Dynamic Budapest spans both banks of the Danube River between hilly Buda and flat Pest, each with its own distinct historical quarters.

Admire panoramic river and city views from the iconic Fisherman’s Bastion buildings high atop Castle Hill.

Another top highlight includes soaking in one of the thermal spas in the Szechenyi Baths.

Be sure to wander narrow medieval alleyways, sample local Tokaji wines, and catch performances at one of the city’s ornate opera houses.

Strolling along the riverfront promenades and catching sights from the iconic Chain Bridge offers a scenic introduction to this lively capital city.

Copenhagen, Denmark

One of the world’s hippest and most sustainable cities, Copenhagen enchants with its blend of historic character and Scandinavian design flair.

Top attractions include the idyllic Tivoli Gardens amusement park and the Little Mermaid statue.

Biking along waterfront promenades, wandering bustling pedestrian streets past shopfronts, or relaxing in parks like Kastellet Fortress offers a pleasant cultural immersion.

Danish cuisine seduces visitors with “hygge” coziness via its pastries, bread, and hearty fare.

Consider exploring the Christianshavn canal district or Nyhavn harbor area for charming, colorful buildings.

Within reach also lie picture-perfect towns like Helsingør along the coast and Kronborg Castle, said to have inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

Naples, Italy

Naples offers visitors a delicious slice of southern Italian authenticity.

Top foodie attractions include strolling Spaccanapoli Street past street vendors and sampling the famous Neapolitan pizza straight from wood-fired ovens.

Towering Mt. Vesuvius is a must-visit for its looming volcanic peak that famously buried Pompeii.

Just beyond, the ancient ruins at Pompeii offer an eerily well-preserved glimpse into Roman daily life.

For sublime coastal views, head to the nearby Amalfi Coast along winding seaside roads.

Naples also seduces with its thriving port-city energy, baroque churches, and world-class archaeological museums.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm captivates with its idyllic maritime setting, sprawling across 14 islands where the bodacious Baltic Sea meets countless lakes.

Top attractions include the old town of Gamla Stan, the ornate Royal Palace, and the Vasa Museum ship exhibit.

Marvel at panoramic city views from pontoons or take a Viking-inspired archipelago boat trip.

Lush green spaces like Djurgården and trendy al fresco scenes at Kungsträdgården offer relaxation.

Sample new Nordic cuisine revolving around local seasonal ingredients and relax over “fika” coffee break pastries.

Within reach also lie charming towns like Drottningholm, with its royal palace and gardens.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Small yet vibrant, Reykjavík in Iceland offers a gateway to exploring incredible volcanic and glacial landscapes while enjoying the lively capital city scene.

Top attractions include walking tours through Old Reykjavík’s brightly colored facades, the spectacular Hallgrímskirkja church viewpoint, and whale-watching cruises.

For relaxation, head to the iconic geothermally-warmed Blue Lagoon pools, surrounded by basalt rock formations.

Pubs and cafes abound with warm, atmospheric interiors where you can experience vibrant art, design, and nightlife scenes.

Day trips can include golden circle sites like Thingvellir National Park or the incredible black sand beaches and rock formations along the rugged Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Marseille, France

The vibrant port city of Marseille has so much cultural diversity and natural beauty to uncover.

Visit the magnificent Notre-Dame de la Garde perched high above the city and winding Old Port waterfront markets.

Stroll through history along cobbled streets in the Panier historic district and Le Vieux-Port waterfront.

Sunny beaches and Calanques inlets dot the Mediterranean coastline, perfect for swimming and hiking stunning cliffs.

Culinary tours showcase the iconic Bouillabaisse fish stew and local rosé wines.

Contemporary art museums and exquisite Mediterranean architecture offer dynamic culture in this bustling southern French gem.

Madrid, Spain

As Spain’s lively capital, Madrid offers historic charm intertwined with modern buzz.

Plaza Mayor is the historic heart where you can sip chocolate con churros while admiring its arcaded buildings.

The expansive Buen Retiro Park offers green respite, while the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen museums house artistic masterpieces.

“Tapas hop” through the tapas trail and catch flamenco performances in Lavapiés’ lively bars late into the night.

Munich, Germany

Flowing beers, hearty cuisine, and annual Oktoberfest festivals make Munich a top Bavarian destination.

Explore the gothic Frauenkirche cathedral and neoclassical architecture along Kaufingerstraße pedestrian street before relaxing in the Englischer Garten, Europe’s largest urban park.

Visit Nymphenburg Palace for its surrounding gardens and art collections.

Sample mouthwatering pretzels and sausages washed down with refreshing Helles lagers.

Brussels, Belgium

Centered around its Grand-Place square lined with gilded architecture, Brussels charms with European institutions and medieval charms.

Top attractions include the Manneken Pis fountain, the Atomium structure in Mini-Europe Park, and the Comic Strip Center celebrating beloved characters.

Stroll the Sablon area for antique shops and try waffles, frites, and Belgian beers washed down alongside the lively Rue des Bouchers cuisine scene.

Conclusion

To summarize some of the most important things to remember when planning a trip to Europe,

• Visit Southern Europe from June to August for warm weather and beaches, and Central and Northern Europe in May or September for moderate temperatures.
• Spend at least three full days in any major European city to truly experience it.
• Use a rail pass like Interrail to easily explore multiple countries over a longer trip.
• Research locations and attractions, especially for popular destinations with high crowds in the summer.
• Leave extra time for unexpected delays at borders or airports when traveling between countries.
• Consider booking accommodation well in advance, especially in the summer, or look for alternatives nearby.
  

Here are visitor statistics for some of the top European cities:

1. London, UK: Continues to lead as the most visited city in Europe, welcoming over 20 million international visitors annually, with a significant increase of 32.1% in 2023​TravelDailyNews International​World’s Best Cities.
2. Paris, France: Attracts around 19 million visitors per year, maintaining its position as a top cultural and romantic destination​TravelDailyNews International​World’s Best Cities.
3. Istanbul, Turkey: Surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with over 16 million visitors annually, showing a 24.3% increase compared to 2019​TravelDailyNews International.
4. Rome, Italy: Hosted approximately 14.6 million visitors in 2023, with remarkable growth of 45.2% compared to previous years​TravelDailyNews International​World’s Best Cities.
5. Barcelona, Spain: Draws around 12 million international tourists annually, known for its unique architecture and Mediterranean charm​World’s Best Cities.
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Welcomes around 11 million visitors annually, celebrated for its canals and museums​World’s Best Cities.
7. Prague, Czech Republic: Received about 9 million visitors, thanks to its historic old town and affordable tourism options​TravelDailyNews International​World’s Best Cities.
8. Vienna, Austria: Recorded approximately 7.5 million visitors in 2023, with a growth rate of 30.6% from the previous year​TravelDailyNews International.
9. Berlin, Germany: Hosts around 7 million visitors annually, praised for its cultural scene and history​World’s Best Cities.
10. Madrid, Spain: Attracts over 6.5 million tourists annually, with a focus on art and gastronomy​World’s Best Cities.

These figures demonstrate strong post-pandemic recovery in tourism across Europe’s most iconic cities, with growth rates driven by improved connectivity and pent-up travel demand.

FAQs

What are the best places in Europe to visit?

Some of the top places to visit in Europe include London, Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Athens, and Berlin. These cities offer world-class museums, architecture, and cultural attractions.

When is the best time to visit Europe’s top destinations?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are generally the best times to visit Europe’s more popular cities and avoid the peak summer crowds and prices. However, southern destinations like Italy and Spain are lovely in the summer months.

What are the 50 best places to visit in Europe?

Publications like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure regularly publish lists of the top 50 places in Europe, which often include destinations like Santorini, the Greek Isles, the Swiss Alps, Stockholm, the French Riviera, Budapest, and London.

What are some of the best beaches in Europe?

Some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches include those in Greece, Croatia, Portugal, and Spain. Top beaches include Balos Lagoon in Crete, Elafonisi in western Crete, and Navagio Beach on Zakynthos island in Greece.

Is Paris one of the best places to visit in Europe?

Paris is considered Europe’s most visited and romantic city. With world-renowned museums, architecture, and cafés, it’s regarded as one of the, if not the, best city destinations in Europe.

What is considered Europe’s best country to visit?

Opinions vary, but Italy, Greece, Portugal, France, and the UK are often cited as some of the best European countries to visit due to their diverse historical sites, beautiful landscapes, cuisine, and culture.

What are some options for a cheap vacation in Europe?

Budget travel destinations include Prague, Budapest, Lisbon, Krakow, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Dublin, which offer rich culture and history at affordable prices.

What cities should I visit in Europe?

The top European cities to include are London, Rome, Barcelona, Paris, Amsterdam, Prague, Florence, Venice, Edinburgh, and Munich, which showcase the best of each country.

What are the best places to visit in France?

Must-see destinations in France include Paris, the French Riviera, Normandy beaches, the Loire Valley, the Provencal region, D-Day beaches, and Mont Saint-Michel island.

What are some beautiful beaches in Europe with blue water?

Some of Europe’s most stunning beaches with clear azure waters include Elafonisi in Greece, Praia de Marinha in Portugal, Cala Goloritzé in Sardinia, and the Westman Islands in Iceland.

What are some of the most beautiful cities in Europe?

Often cited as the most beautiful European cities are Prague, Rome, Vienna, Venice, Paris, Edinburgh, Budapest, Amsterdam, Bruges, and Dubrovnik, which showcase striking architecture and charming old towns.

What are the best places to visit in Austria?

Top destinations include Vienna, Salzburg, and the picturesque towns along the Danube. In the mountains, attractions include Innsbruck and villages like Hallstatt.

What is considered the best beach vacation in Europe?

Contenders for the best beach vacations include the Greek Islands, Portuguese Algarve, South of France, Spanish Costas, and Italian Islands which offer warm weather, watersports, and relaxation.

What are some must-visit European destinations?

Destinations that should not be missed include London, Paris, Rome, the Greek Islands, Venice, Prague, the Swiss Alps, the Greek mainland, Portugal, and Scandinavian capitals known for their beauty, culture, and ease of travel between locations.

What places can I visit on a one-week trip to Europe?

With a week, top options are London-Paris, Amsterdam-Bruges-Brussels, Rome-Florence-Venice, Barcelona-Madrid, the capital city long weekends, and island hopping in Greece.

What spots in Europe are worth visiting in May and July?

May is ideal for cities like Prague, Vienna, and Brussels with summer crowds. July offers sunny beach holidays and festivals in Santorini, Edinburgh, the Greek Isles, and Copenhagen. Outdoor activities abound in warmer months.

What are some beautiful towns in Europe worth exploring?

Charming historic towns like Lucerne, Salzburg, Rothenburg, Annecy, Siena, San Gimignano, and Colmar showcase lakeside and alpine scenery alongside medieval alleys and architecture.