european city tours

10 Best City Trips in Europe of 2024

Europe, the continent that holds the world’s most impressive architecture, mouth-watering cuisines, medieval castles, white beaches, history, and culture, and every single country is very different. This diversity within relatively short distances is why city trips in Europe are so popular. Here are the 10 best city trips in Europe!

1. Budapest , Hungary

Creative, vibrant, and bursting with remarkable architecture, that’s Budapest ! The capital of Hungary is quickly transforming into one of the best places to visit in Europe. It’s famous for it’s thermal baths so don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a whole day at the spa ( book your ticket here ). Split into the hilly ‘Buda’ and the flat ‘Pest’, the city is easily walkable and centered around the beautiful Danube River.

Here are 15 Incredible things to do in Budapest

At first glance, Budapest is as traditional as you would expect. But underneath, you find an experimental edge to the city, revealed through multicolored street art, vintage shopping, and abandoned buildings transformed into fashionable dining spaces.

An added bonus is that Budapest’s capital status isn’t reflected in the prices, so expect goods and services to be extremely affordable.

When to visit: March to May and September to November Budget: 70 USD per day

Where to Stay in Budapest

Budapest has plenty of options for all budgets when it comes to hotels and hostels ( you can search for your hostel here ).

Hotels in Budapest 😴

The best areas to stay are on the Pest side between Keleti station and the Danube River, where most is happening.

2. Rotterdam , Netherlands

Rotterdam in the Netherlands is Amsterdam ’s cooler and contemporary brother. The second biggest city in the Netherlands is a metropolitan and multicultural hub, combining the old with new and daring architecture.

Think jaw-dropping geometric shapes, young and fresh eateries, and a skyline that could rival that of a far bigger city. Visit the art museums, take a boat tour on the river , or cycle around the city. After all, this is what the Netherlands is all about!

Read our Rotterdam City Trip Guide

One of the best places to visit in Europe

This forgotten treasure is becoming easier to visit within Europe due to new and improved travel links.  Lonely Planet named it one of their 2016 places to visit in Europe. When to visit: April to June and August to October Budget: 150 USD per day

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

Although the city is very walkable, it is useful to have a hotel in Rotterdam near public transport or in the city center.

Hotels in Rotterdam 😴

Tip: The best areas to stay in Rotterdam are North, Central, Delfshaven, and Kop van Zuid.

3. Valencia , Spain

The birthplace of Paella and home to one of the unique festivals in the world, Valencia has to be one of the best city trips in Europe. Best described as a city of contrasts, it perfectly blends the old and new and not only showcases architectural gems but beautiful green spaces and beaches, too.

Read the complete 3-day Valencia city guide

The contrast continues in March when normal slow-paced Spanish vibes are abandoned for the festivities of Las Fallas. Fireworks during the day, street parties and on the final night the burn of hundreds of sculptures.  When to visit: March to May and October to December Budget: 160 USD per day

Where to Stay in Valencia

Accommodation in Valencia is reasonably affordable. Aim to stay in the city center, near to the old town or Rusafa, for easy access to the key sights.

Hotels in Valencia 😴

For a more affordable option, stay a little outside of the center on the metro line for easy access to the city. Alternatively, find a hostel down by the beach.

4. Venice , Italy

Enchanting Venice, a city free of cars, where the mist runs off the water and boats run in a peaceful way. From the postman to the doctor, traveling by boat is at the heart of the nature of Venice . Book a gondola ride and glide through the canals of Venice.

Discover Venice with these 11 Best Things to do in Venice

Follow the twists and turns of the streets and canals passing the ancient buildings whilst eating a heavenly Italian gelato. This picture-perfect city is one of the greatest places to travel in Europe. Best to visit out of high season to experience authentic Italy a little better. When to visit: March to May and October to December Budget: 260 USD per day

Where to Stay in Venice

Stay in the middle of the city but tucked away in a quiet street 5 minutes walking from San Marco Square at Novecento Boutique Hotel .

Hotels in Venice 😴

Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, your best option is to stay outside of Venice on the mainland.

5. Lisbon , Portugal

Charming hilly Lisbon with its panoramic city views all over the city and the mouth of the river Tagus. Lisbon is impossible to leave without wanting to come back, so it’s easy to see why Lisbon is one of the best places to visit for a European city trip.

Here are 14 Things that make Lisbon such an incredible city

It manages to strike a balance between historical buildings and a trendy metropolitan vibe. Combine the melody of Fado (a music genre originating in Lisbon ) with the Portuguese custard tart, and you’re onto a winner! When to visit: March to May or September to November Budget: 120 USD per day

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon’s best neighborhoods to stay in are the charming old town: Barrio Alto and Alfama, or in the center at Baixa and Chiado.

Hotels in Lisbon 😴

Lisbon is also a haven for backpackers, and there are plenty of great hostels to choose from. Please note: the old town is hilly but also quieter throughout the entire day.

6. Tbilisi , Georgia

A city of quirks and surprises, prepare to be blown away by the rustic charm of this transcontinental city. Everything about Tbilisi screams unique and different, making it one of the most underrated city trips in Europe.

Discover Europe’s best-hidden gem Tbilisi

The must-do city trip in Europe

It somehow pulls off being traditional yet futuristic. However, it manages to preserve its culture while also branching into the new and innovative. See ancient creations rub against the more industrial, giving it a young, metropolitan vibe. Join a group tour to make sure you don’t miss any of this city’s must-see highlights.

When to visit: April to June and September and October Budget: 90 USD per day

Where to Stay in Tbilisi

Most things to do in Tbilisi are located in the old and charming city center, and this is also the best area to stay in Tbilisi.

Hotels in Tbilisi 😴

The city offers accommodation for any kind of budget, including some great hostels ( search for a hostel here ).

7. Istanbul , Turkey

East meets West in the stimulating city of Istanbul ! A city that bridges the gap between Europe and Asia physically and culturally. Let all your senses come alive as you wander the colorful streets and bazaars, making friends with the locals and haggling for a bargain. Take plenty of snack breaks to taste the mouth-watering food, bought from markets or eaten at cute cafes in the hipster area of Balat .

Find out why you need to visit Istanbul

However, Istanbul isn’t only street art, spices, and shopping – spend time discovering the religious buildings and history of this sacred city. Full of hidden gems, you can expect to find a new discovery around every corner, making this city a must-do city trip in Europe. When to visit: March to May or September to November Budget: 90 USD per day

Where to Stay in Istanbul

Hotels and hostels in Istanbul are available throughout the entire city. If you want to stay close to the majority of historical sites, we recommend staying in the area of Sultanahmet.

Hotels in Istanbul 😴

Alternatively, for nightlife and the majority of luxury hotels, choose the suburb of Taksim, which has great transport connections by metro, cable car, and funicular.

8. Rome , Italy

One of the most intoxicating cities in the world, Rome is alive with the laughing of locals, the blare of horns, and the slurping of spaghetti. No amount of days will ever be enough to get your fill of the history, art, and culture of the city, but be sure to step back in time by visiting the Colosseum (one of the seven wonders) and the smallest country in the world: the Vatican.

Get your Vatican Tickets here

After you are stuffed full of history and pizza, find an oasis within the city by visiting the third largest park in Europe and reflect on which of the thousands of beautiful buildings in Rome is your favorite. Don’t forget to make a wish at the Trevi fountain and hope that the myth is true and you get to return to Rome- one of the most fantastic city trips in Europe!

Read: Rome, the complete guide

When to visit: February to May and September to December Budget: 190 USD per day

Where to Stay in Rome

Rome offers accommodation for every kind of budget, including plenty of great hostels ( search all hostels in Rome here ).

Hotels in Rome 😴

Piazza Navona and San Lorenzo are central areas within walking distance of many of the top attractions. Trastevere is another great neighborhood by the river, which has a more authentic ‘Roman’ feel and loads of cute shops, restaurants, and bars.

9. Krakow , Poland

Welcome to one of Europe’s best cities: Krakow ! This young and vibrant city with charming cobbled streets is on its way to becoming one of Europe’s favorites.

The sightseeing, large urban green belt, high-quality restaurants, and accommodation make Krakow the complete package for a city trip. Additionally, visit the Auschwitz museum to understand the WWII history that had taken place.

Get your Auschwitz tickets easily online

Where to Stay in Krakow

Krakow’s old town is the most popular area to stay in. However, hotels are generally more affordable outside the old city walls. Alternatively, stay in the hipster neighborhood of Kazimierz .

Hotels in Krakow 😴

We stayed at a perfect location on the border of the old town near the park at Vienna House Krakow .

10. Paris , France

The Eiffel Tower, French cuisine, Art Museum Louvre , and Montmartre . Paris is possibly the most popular city for a city trip to Europe, and that’s for a good reason. 

The perfect 3-day Paris Guide

Where to Stay in Paris

The best area to stay in Paris is Le Marais if you want access to everything right on your doorstep. You’ll be in the middle of trendy restaurants and shops and can walk or take the metro to most sights.

Hotels in Paris 😴

Alternatively, find a hotel in Montmartre, which is just outside the center and full of character and charming streets.

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European Cities

High Culture: Experience the Best on a Tour of European Cities

The best European cities are those that capture the cultural richness of each region. For lovers of classical music, museums, art galleries, and heritage architecture there are some outstanding options. No matter how many days you assign to your getaway, you will find that there is no lack of things to see and do while visiting these cities. Make the best of your time by letting an Enchanting Travels expert help you craft a perfectly harmonic itinerary.

Spires of churches and towers dominate the skyline of the atmospheric Czech capital, Prague. On a hilltop above the city, Prague Castle is a grand complex of architectural wonders that hosted Bohemian royalty for centuries. Back in the city, cross the 14th-century Charles Bridge, the city’s most famous attraction. Wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, making sure you stop at the astronomical clock. Spend a morning in the Jewish Quarter and the afternoon at Strahov Monastery. Prague is famous for its beer halls serving all kinds of lagers and homebrews; wind down with beer and conversation at a typical Czech pub.

Tour the Hungarian Parliament Building and Castle district, where Budapest’s most significant monuments and museums are located. Cruise the mighty Danube, which divides this great city into historic Buda and modern Pest. An essential aspect of this city is its therapeutic hot springs which can be experienced in traditional thermal baths or lavish spas.

With its unmatched line-up of art, music, and architecture, Vienna’s cultural scene shines bright. The Austrian capital has a packed cultural calendar, and you’d do well to book yourself an evening of opera, music, dance, or theater. Vienna impresses at every turn: grand baroque palaces at its historic center, Gothic churches, art nouveau train stations. Savor this city’s legacy of art in the MuseumQuartier with a break for lavish sachertorte and coffee at an iconic Viennese coffee house. From Vienna, you could also visit Salzburg at the foot of the Alps, which form a stunning backdrop to this historic Austrian city. The 900-year-old Hohensalzburg Fortress towers over the city, which is sometimes more famous as the birthplace of Mozart and for sites where  The Sound of Music  was filmed. No less important however are its baroque cathedrals and palaces, found on both sides of the River Salzach. Plan to catch an evening concert at Mirabell Palace, but arrive early enough to amble through its lovely gardens.

Amsterdam has a reputation for being welcoming and multicultural. It is trendy and hip, but preserves its history with pride. Impressive museums display fantastic art from Dutch masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer, but also a host of contemporary greats. The best way to explore the heart of the capital of the Netherlands is to take a canal boat cruise, floating past historic brick buildings and pretty bridges. This city overflows with eclectic eating options ranging from Michelin-starred fine dining spaces to local markets serving warm, divine stroopwafels.

Popular Trips to European Cities

Highlights of Italy and Croatia

Embark on an enchanting 12-day journey through Italy and Croatia. Explore Florence’s Renaissance wonders, Venice’s magical canals, and Rovinj’s vibrant culture. Dive into history at Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, and marvel at Dubrovnik’s fortified walls. Indulge in incredible cuisine and breathtaking views. Our experts handpicked hotel options including Hotel Santa Maria Novella, Hotel Carlton on the…

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Discover historic cities in Central Europe by rail, starting from artistic and cultural Vienna by the Danube river in Austria and ending in cosmopolitan Geneva, the heart of modern Swiss culture. Diverse experiences await you on this journey so you can enjoy both cosmopolitan capital cities such as Munich, Salzburg and Zurich, as well as…

Austria and Germany: Heritage Sites

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Best Places To Visit

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, sits along a network of UNESCO-listed historic canals in the province of North Holland. Also known as the ‘Venice of the North’, this picturesque city with its gabled facades and cultural heritage holds the promise of a memorable vacation.

Budapest, the elegant Hungarian capital, stands by the legendary Danube River. The city traces its origins to the ancient Roman era, largely because of the many hot springs in and around Budapest.

Innsbruck in Austria is a little paradise on earth with its snow-capped mountains and picturesque valleys. Lush green in summer, the city changes to winter wonderland at the end of year, inviting skiing enthusiasts to hit the slopes of the Nordkette Mountain.

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is steeped in history and, some would argue, the best beer in the continent. This classic European gem is an amalgamation of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance art and architecture.

Salzburg, a fairy tale Alpine town, became popular with travelers largely because of the all-time classic family musical, The Sound of Music. This picturesque town in the Eastern Alps bordering Germany is named after the lovely Salzach River, which runs through it.

Vienna, the capital city of Austria by the Danube River, is also the artistic and cultural heart of the country. Home to musical maestros like Beethoven, Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, and Strauss, among many other masters, Vienna is famous the world over as the City of Music.

Best Time To Visit

The most popular time to visit European cities is during the summer months of June, July, and August, but the months before and after summer also offer ideal weathers with fewer crowds. Click on the link below and discover which time of the year suits you best.

Things To Do

All of the continent’s major metropolises have centuries-long histories and offer a fantastic balance of contemporary allures, culinary delights and historic gems. To give you some inspiration for your upcoming vacation, here’s our top ten things to do in Europe’s cities.

Travel guide

From which currency you’ll need to purchase in each country, to health information, vaccines and visas, our European city travel guide is packed full of useful information to help you prepare for your trip.

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Say Yes to Greece

Explore all the places we go in Europe

THIS IS WHAT AWAITS IN EUROPE

Towering castles. Untamed natural beauty. Captivating history. Can’t-miss cuisine. This is your time, your moment, your chance to discover Europe.

Destination Must-Sees

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B. Step into history when you walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium or witness amazing sculptures at the museum.

France’s romantic capital is a must-see destination, and a gorgeous gateway to the wonders the rest of this country has to offer. Whether your ideal Parisian getaway has you spending some free time sipping coffee at a café and watching the bustling city life, roaming the halls of art at the Louvre, or exploring the bohemian artist’s haven — the Montmartre neighborhood, there’s rich history and culture abound in every corner of the City of Light.

Irish countryside:

Take in the atmosphere of quaint seaside villages, see awe inspiring views of the Lakes of Killarney and explore the picturesque town of Kinsale. Wherever you travel in the countryside, you’ll find that the rolling hills and friendly people you encounter will become a part of your fabric.

Ancient cities of Italy:

Italy is positively brimming with the world’s most famous Roman ruins like the Colosseum, Pompeii and many other relics from the ancient past. In fact, many cities in Italy still hold evidence of what once was. You can find an aqueduct, city gate, Roman theater or the ruins of an entire city there.

Destination Must-Dos

Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

The Palace of Versailles

The iconic Palace of Versailles (UNESCO) and its gardens reflect the extravagant tastes of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King." Alongside a local guide, learn the history and admire the various rooms of the State Apartments, including the Queen's bedchamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Be sure to explore the incredible gardens, some of the most famous in the world, which took over 40 years to complete and include intricate architecture, elaborate fountains, and gorgeous statues.

Drift down a canal:

While canals are found across Europe, nothing beats a romantic gondola ride in Venice. Locals like to say the best way to explore the city is to ‘get lost.’ So take a ride along these waterways, step off and then wind your way through the intricate blend of bridges, narrow streets and grand squares.

This was the first capital of Spain located about 43 miles south of Madrid. The history of Toledo dates back to the Roman occupation circa 192 B.C. The old city of Toledo sits atop of a small mountain surrounded on three sides by the Tagus River, and medieval walls on the fourth. From the top of the mountain you can get a 180 degree view of the surrounding landscape.

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Magnificent landscapes combined with the country’s charming traditions and customs offer new experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Famous for bullfighting, Spain allows you to grab life by the horns and dive into adventure. Whether it’s the eye-catching architecture of Madrid, the bold Spanish wines, or the shimmering Costa del Sol, this country remains a delight to the senses. Once you experience Spain, you’ll never want to leave and when you do, you’ll always be craving more.

A gem of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is a paradise. On the coasts, sun-soaked beaches meet breathtaking hillside towns all down the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. In the cities, ancient structures rise up shoulder-to-shoulder with modern living. Everywhere you turn, you can find mouth-watering food paired with delicious local wines, medieval architecture paired with Moorish artistic influence, and friendly locals paired with charming attitudes. No matter what you seek, when you go, where you look, or how long you stay, Portugal offers something for every traveler.

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

A rendezvous with a magnifique experience awaits! As cliché as it sounds, France truly has something for everyone. With over two dozen cities, each with their own nuances of the French culture and contributions to its history, architecture, art and last but not least, the gastronomical delights that the French are famous for throughout the world are yours to explore, experience and fall in love with during your stay. Coast to coast, border to border, there are seemingly endless variations on your French experience to be had. Rolling hills and scenic valleys lined with the fruit of the gods; seaside towns, along sandy beaches with views you just might be sharing with royalty; or maybe snowcapped mountain ranges providing some of the best skiing in the world and an adrenaline rush to match is what you seek. Whatever you decide, France easily makes you feel as if you have stepped out of reality and into the art you learned about and loved since you were a child.

At the heart of Europe, monumental contemporary and historic events shape today’s Germany. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to the rise of the Beatles in Hamburg, the culture of the country is marked by its influential past and present. Imagine yourself exploring postcard-worthy castles such as Neuschwanstein or wandering through medieval cities such as Regensburg. From the Bavarian Alps to the Rhine Gorge to the plains of the north, the range of Germany’s landscapes will capture your heart. Perhaps you’ll also indulge your taste buds as you sample the delicious Marzipan sweet treats of the Hanseatic port of Lubeck, which have been produced there for over 200 years. Whether on a journey on the ‘Romantic Road’ or cruising along the Rhine, know that a stein of German beer or a glass of wine from the Rhine vineyards are both a worthy compliment to a destination that offers far more than the average traveler anticipates.

Switzerland

Incredible skiing on the Swiss Alps and delectable Swiss chocolate are only two reasons for visiting Switzerland. Located between Austria, France, Germany and Italy, you can get quite a diverse European cultural experience depending on which region of Switzerland you choose. And though the food, music, art and people themselves are very much influenced by their European neighbors, they are all still uniquely Swiss. You will leave with plenty of memories to savor for a lifetime.

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THE 10 BEST Europe City Tours

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European Capital & City Tours

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant European city life with our thrilling capital and city tours! Our rail tours operate from London, Edinburgh, Dublin, Paris, Nice, Amsterdam, and beyond, connecting you to countless other European destinations.

The possibilities to explore and combine cities on our  European Capital Tours  are limitless, thanks to excellent rail connections! Let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime with our selection of exciting independent capital and city tours.

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Europe Tours and Trip Packages 2024/2025

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or you just enjoy the finer things in life, a Europe tour package has something to offer every type of traveler. These Europe package tours and trips explore any of the continent’s 50 countries that are diverse in size, climate, traditions - and cost! With fine cuisine, world-renowned art and music, and 23 officially recognized languages, a tour in Europe can be a cultural labyrinth that fuels wanderlust. 

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• Mar 09 10+ seats left
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Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe

• Activities Explorer
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• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,739
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• Total Price from: US$ 3,365
• May 08 10+ seats left
• Jun 05 10+ seats left

• Starts Barcelona, Spain
• Ends Madrid, Spain

Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas

• Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Party and nightlife & Food tours 'data-more-tripid='4978'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hostel
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• Brochure Price: US$ 1,729
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• Apr 26 Only 1 seat left
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• Starts Sofia, Bulgaria
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All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='17753'>+1 more
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• Apr 27 10+ seats left
• May 04 10+ seats left

• Starts Catania, Italy
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Small Group Food & Wine Tour of Sicily

• Free cancellation
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• Activities Food tours & Wine tasting tours Food tours , Wine tasting tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Countryside and village visits & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='22521'>+3 more
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• Age Range 1-89 yrs

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Baltic Capital Cities

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• Transport Bus
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• May 25 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 01 Only 4 seats left

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Caucasus Countries (12 days)

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• Starts Dublin, Ireland
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Irish Explorer

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• Mar 30 10+ seats left

European Vistas

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• Apr 17 10+ seats left
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• Starts Lisbon, Portugal
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Highlights of Portugal

• Activities Local culture & Art and architecture Local culture , Art and architecture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Shopping and Markets 'data-more-tripid='10596'>+2 more
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• Age Range 12-95 yrs
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• Jun 09 Only 1 seat left
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• Starts Split, Croatia
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Croatia Sailing Adventure

• Activities Sailing, yachting and motor boating & National parks Sailing, yachting and motor boating , National parks & Chill out 'data-more-tripid='37268'>+1 more
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Europe Tour Reviews

• Carrie Van De Polder
• Shamsiev Shokhrukh

Europe - Tour Package Highlights and Trip Insights

With so much to see, do, eat and buy, planning a Europe tour is no easy feat. There are, of course, the typical sightseeing musts: Paris’ Louvre, London’s Tower Bridge, and Rome’s Colosseum. Even Europe’s most frequent visitors will always find something new to discover. Read on for our top Europe tour highlights and Europe trip insights.

Europe Tour Package Highlights

• Go back in time and explore the ruins of ancient civilizations in Italy and Greece
• Snack on cheese and wine (or escargot, if you’re feeling adventurous) in the Champ de Mars, beneath the Eiffel Tower
• Ride a bicycle through the townhouse-lined streets of Amsterdam before touring the canals by boat
• Listen to the romantic songs of the gondoliers as you cruise through the canals of Venice
• Indulge in an authentic Belgian waffle, drowned in chocolate
• Enjoy an ice-cold beer from a beer stein at Oktoberfest in Germany
• Hike from village to village in Italy’s Cinque Terre
• Get lost between the shelves of some of the world’s most beautiful libraries, like those at Trinity College (Dublin, Ireland), Mafra Palace (Mafra, Portugal), and the Clementinum Baroque Library Hall (Prague, Czech Republic)
• Join a Europe tour that goes through many of Europe's travel highlights in countries such as Spain , France , Italy , Netherlands and Scandinavia .

Europe Trip Insights

• Traveling by rail is one of the easiest (and sometimes cheapest) ways to get around Europe, especially if you plan to travel for a couple of weeks (or longer). Investigate rail passes before you visit, particularly ones that can be used between countries. Interrail and Eurail are very popular among travelers.
• Don’t skip the “touristy” destinations. Everyone travels differently, but the most popular European highlights are popular for a reason. Brave the crowds and be sure to stop by those more cliché sites - you’ll be glad you did.
• Try not to over prepare! One of the great benefits of visiting Europe is that it’s incredibly easy to travel between towns and countries. Allow yourself some flexibility to open yourself up to new adventures (and avoid travel burnout). If you've booked a Europe tour package with accommodation, activities, guides etc. get ready to indulge and relax - you are up for a Europe trip of a lifetime. 
• Chances are you don’t speak 23 different languages, so be prepared before you travel. Avoid carrying around heavy guide books by downloading a translation app on your phone.
• Note that not all European countries use the Euro, including the United Kingdom , Denmark and Hungary (among others). Do your research beforehand and be ready to juggle different currencies if you’re planning an extensive trip.
• Travelling on a budget? Check our last minute holiday and travel deals to Europe . Also, consider looking for accommodation outside the city centre. Most large European cities are very well connected by public transportation, meaning all your bucket list sites are just a quick (and often inexpensive) bus, train, or metro ride away.

Tours in Europe - Questions and Answers

You can spend a couple of months exploring Europe and still feel like you have not seen everything. Generally speaking, a two-week Europe trip should be just enough if you are looking to cover its major highlights. However, if you want a comprehensive travel experience within this duration, it is better that you focus on a region or a few countries rather than traveling all over the continent. 

Choose a single country or schedule your trip around a handful of cities in different countries. While larger European cities may require three to four days to explore, you can get around smaller destinations in a day or two. Planning your trip around a particular region will cut down your travel time and save your time in transit.

If you are planning to visit multiple countries, you should prepare a tentative list of destinations you are interested in. If it is your first trip, stick to major cities and cultural centers for the sake of simplicity and convenience. Also, be flexible and optimize your travel time and budget. Be open to changing your itinerary depending on schedules and ticket prices.

There are dozens of insurance companies offering travel insurance, which can make it difficult for you to choose the right one.

There are a number of things that you should be aware of while purchasing travel insurance. If it is comprehensive medical insurance plans that you are interested in, make sure to find out what all the plan covers. If you are concerned about certain scenarios, then check out customizable travel insurance policies and find out if the provider can cover you for those situations. You also need to determine if there are reasonable coverage limits. Check deductibles and compensation limits in the insurance policy for this.

While insurance is important, it is mostly a safeguard against emergencies. If you are on a budget, you can go with the second- or even third-best option and prioritize getting your money’s worth instead of purchasing the most comprehensive coverage.

Europe has swathes of spectacular landscapes, a rich history, and vibrant cultures. Therefore, deciding on the best travel destinations on the continent can be difficult. However, you can narrow down on highlights by choosing one overarching theme for your trip. 

If you are looking forward to immersing yourself in art and history, then Italy, Spain , and France should be on the top of your list. Head for Switzerland , Norway , or Croatia if nature is what you love the most. For beaches and water sports, you will be hard-pressed to find better destinations than Greece , Portugal , and Montenegro.

Having said that, you can also diversify your itinerary by mixing and matching different elements of the same country. Italy  tops the charts not just for its medieval monuments and Renaissance art but also for coastal scenery and sun-soaked beaches. Similarly, Spain is a foodie paradise as much as it is an architectural hotspot.

Bus services like FlixBus and BusAbout offer a convenient means of transport if you wish to move from one city to another within the same country. Although these services do travel between countries, they might not be the best choice due to a longer travel time.

Budget airlines are another great way to get around Europe’s major cities, especially when you want to cut down on travel time between two countries. Keep an eye out and you might be able to snag tickets at unbelievable rates. Services like Skyscanner can be of help. Some of the largest budget airlines in the continent are Ryanair , WizzAir , Eurowings , and EasyJet .

Ridesharing services are a godsend for those wishing to immerse themselves in local culture as they offer you the chance to catch a ride with locals along the way. BlaBlaCar is the largest one. The only downside is that it is not always as easy to book a rideshare service as it is to catch a bus or hop on a budget flight.

The USA is one of the 63 countries whose citizens enjoy visa-free entry into the EU Schengen zone along with the UK and associated states like Iceland , Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. 

This means that if you are an American citizen with a valid US passport and want to travel to Europe for a limited amount of time for tourism or business purpose, you can do so anytime you want to. However, if you have more long-term plans (say, you intend to get employed, study, or simply live in Europe for an extended period of time), you will need to apply for a visa. The type of your visa and required documentation depend on your goals. 

Update for 2022: EU is set to launch ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) by the end of this year. It is similar to ESTA and is supposed to help simplify travel procedures and decrease security risks. All travelers allowed to travel to the EU and associated states visa-free will require an ETIAS authorization. This also includes US citizens.

If your country has a visa-free agreement with the EU, you are allowed to spend up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. Keep in mind that the countdown starts on the date of your entry and ends on the date of your exit. So, for example, if you fly into an EU country on the first of the month and exit on the 15th, it will count as a 15-day stay.

There are 63 countries in the world that have a visa-waiver agreement with the EU . If your country is part of this agreement, you can travel to Europe visa-free. You do, however, need to show the following to be allowed into the Schengen Zone and associated states.

• A valid passport: Your passport should have a validity of at least 3 months at the time of your entry into Schengen and be less than ten years old.
• Purpose of entry: In addition to your passport, you also require documents that prove that you are there for tourism purposes. These documents can include invoices for hotel reservations and booked tours. 
• Proof of financial means: You also need to carry documents proving that you can support yourself during your stay in the region.

As long as you have got all three, all you need is a plane ticket to your chosen destination. 

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Enjoy afternoon tea in London

Sample over 300-years of history in the simplicity of homemade scones with whipped cream and jam. This deliciously British treat is best enjoyed in the afternoon, complete with a hot cup of Earl Grey, cucumber sandwiches and a tower of sugary delights.

Explore ancient Athens

You don't need to be a historian to appreciate the significance of Athens. Your love affair with the city might begin with goddess Athena’s Parthenon temple and the ruins of Acropolis, but it’s likely to end in a quaint alleyway getting a glimpse at daily life in this ancient capital. The story of Athens continues to unfold.

Catch a flamenco show in Spain

Discover the soul-stirring emotion of a Flamenco show in Spain. This expressive art-form has an intangible cultural heritage recognised by UNESCO, merging song, dance and musical instruments into a performance that has to be experienced at least once. Finish with dinner of paella or tapas to round off your perfect evening.

View the Northern Lights in Iceland

Mother Nature’s wonders come to life with the Aurora Borealis or ‘Northern Lights’. In the frosty landscapes of Iceland, this light display offers viewers a genuine pinch-me moment as vivid colours dance across the night sky.

Spend a night at the opera in Vienna

Hear the talents of traditional opera with the ghosts of Mozart and Strauss in your presence. Though there are more than few places to catch the opera in Vienna, none can compare to the State Opera House (Staatsoper).

Our top 5 things to do in Europe & Britain

There are endless pinch-me moments to be found across the many countries that make up the continent of Europe. But where to even begin? Perhaps a Flamenco show in Spain, afternoon tea in London or a Northern Lights viewing in frosty Iceland? Here are some of the highlights of our Europe and Britain trips that you're sure to love. 

Paris, France

The world’s largest gallery and the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre is without rival in the art world and is a must see when in Paris. Allow an entire day to explore its eight departments, not missing the Egyptian antiquities, Islamic art and various halls of sculptures. End your day with sunset by the Louvre Pyramid.

London, England

The British Museum

With some eight million works within its permanent collection, The British Museum is an illustrious European landmark. Admire objects brought back from the voyages of Captain James Cook and walk in the controversial presence of the Parthenon Marbles.

Florence, Italy

Uffizi Gallery

The Tuscan capital is home to Uffizi Gallery, where the brushworks of art’s true masters can be found. Names like Raffaello, Leonardo, and Michelangelo fill Uffizi’s grand pink walls, whilst internal courtyards leading to the Arno River reveal the building’s architectural brilliance.

Best museums in Europe & Britain

When traveling Europe with Trafalgar, museum hopping is one of the best ways to understand the culture and history of the places you visit. You’ll find yourself critiquing ancient art and staring in awe at some of the world’s most prominent works. Here are some of our favorites.

Paella Valenciana

Saffron, snails, butterbeans and bomba rice are just some of the ingredients you might find in traditional Spanish paella. Despite originating from the coastal town of Valencia, Paella Valenciana is a variety without seafood. You'll love sitting back to enjoy a steaming plate over the sounds of Spanish jazz in a lively alfresco restaurant.

Beef Stroganoff

Now a staple dish in many parts of the world, beef stroganoff is best enjoyed in its birthplace in Russia with a vodka in hand. This simple dish of beef strips sauteed in a sour cream sauce offers a heart-warming taste of this country’s culinary heritage.

Bouillabaisse

The Mediterranean city of Marseille is where a French culinary icon can be found and devoured. The fragrant stew of bouillabaisse, commonly served with crusty white bread, boils up the finest local seafood and seasonal vegetables with the flavors of fennel, saffron and cayenne pepper.

Best food in Europe & Britain

Our trips to Europe gravitate around indulgent local mealtimes. With new cuisines and cooking methodologies found at every turn, this continent is simply delicious. 

What to pack for a tour in Europe

With such a large expanse of space to explore, on some days, long journeys are unavoidable. The scenery will provide plenty of visual entertainment, while headphones can be used to listen to some local music or enjoy podcasts about European history, culture and politics when you're not enjoying the storytelling from your Travel Director.

A good book

Exploring Europe is best done at a relaxed pace with ample opportunity to absorb your surroundings. Dedicate a few days to sitting in a park or a cafe, alternating between reading and watching the world go by.

Versatile shoes

Within the space of one outing you may experience all kinds of terrain when in Europe. Pack shoes that can see you walking from an elegant restaurant to a cobbled footpath, with a stroll along the soft grass of a park in between.

A blank journal

With the wealth of inspiration tucked into every corner of Europe, you may find yourself compelled to write down notes or memories. At the very least to share recommendations with friends when you return home.

All climate clothing

No matter the time of year you travel, Europe can deliver a myriad of temperatures. From frosty cities of Scandinavia to the temperate hills of Portugal, layered clothing best suits the varying micro-climates across this continent.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

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7 Day Europe Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day Europe tour with TourRadar. Choose from 2,773 trips with 17,553 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

250+ Europe 7 day tour packages with 17,553 reviews

• Sightseeing

A Taste of Scandinavia

Nikolai was FANTASTIC!!!! He was a great tour leader. The tour took us to many places and he educated us well. However, just a few negative comments. The hotels were not satisfactory ....I am used to better hotels when I travel. Carrying my luggage throughout the tour was very burdensome. I am an older person, and although I am in great shape, I did not want to be responsible for carrying my luggage everywhere. There was an 89 year old man on our trip. He had a real hard time catching up. I usually go on escorted tours where my luggage, and everything else, is handled by the guides, not by me. I loved the places that wer went to and overall I would suggest people take Tourradar and Intrepid if they don't mind doing some of the labor involved.

• Coach / Bus

Europe Taster

We did not like accommodations given to us. Tour Guide and Driver are excellent. Food is average. Tourist spots are very good.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural

Budapest to Berlin: Graffiti Walls & Market Halls

The tour provided fabulous, fun & incredible memories. Plus new friendships with adorable people met.

• Christmas & New Year

Classical Italy and Switzerland

First day was disorganised with a very large group needing to be assigned guides. This did not go so smoothly. However, once tour was underway we particularly enjoyed knowledge and friendly manner of our guide, Paula. We were later joined by another guide, Gaby who also looked after us very well. Busy and fast moving, but still with enough free time to explore.

A Piece of Europe

We had two guides Patricia and Rene and they were both amazing We saw so much in such a short time We highly recommend

Glimpse of Europe (End Paris, 7 Days)

My wife and I really enjoyed this trip. All of the stops on the trip were full of cultural things specific for that location, so we got a feeling for traditions of each country, just like the brochure said. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and made it an education experience. We made friends easily with others and it made the city excursions so much more lively. Other travelers told us there were not as many optional choices as in pre-covid days, but that is likely because people in the travel industry had to find other work. Hopefully this will improve as tourism in general is on the up-swing. We would have liked more time at the Rheinfall Falls and less time at the Black Forest cuckoo clock location. There was a half hour boat tour that went to the falls area that several of us thought would have been fun, but there wasn't time for that. Paris was terrific and the timing for all of the excursions was spot on to give us the maximum exposure to this fabulous city in the amount of time we had.

Turkey Classics Tour

Egge, our guide has many years experience and it shows! He gave us much detail and answered all our questions which will be in my heart forever. I feel that I have learnt so much from this tour and am ready to answer them to all my family and freinds as a tour guide! (not quite) "Curly" our driver is the best bus driver I have seen, amoungst all the turmoil that Turkiye can throw at us and I felt very safe. The places visited were outstanding and my highlight was the balloon ride! I feel that I made the right choice by choosing a company such as Fez Travel, as there local experience shines brightly.

Greece Classic Tour

A lot of information which is great if you’re into the history! The group size changes and so does your guide from the half day sightseeing to the 4 day classical. You dont get a lot of free time in any of the cities unless you like wandering in the dark. Greece is a beautiful country!

• Train & Rail

Mediterranean Express: Rivieras & Railroads

Hey is anyone going on the Mediterranean Express trip on 8th September, looking to get to know my fellow travellers a little before I arrive! :)

• Hiking & Trekking

7 Day - Complete Iceland

Had the time of my life!! What a beautiful country, like visiting another planet. I couldn't have chosen a better company to go with, they made it very easy and our tour guide was a local, very informative and helpful.

Amsterdam, Berlin and Prague

Firstly our Tour Guide was knowledgeable and personable he was a kind gentleman Israel mostly the tour ok but as we constantly picked up other people along the way many different languages it just was too large a group and very impersonable you didn't have a chance to interact at all lots of time spent travelling from one place to another but that's what you have to do inclusions were on the whole ok loo stops could of been more frequent too value for money overall

Zagreb to Dubrovnik: Parties & Plitvice Lakes

Although the itinerary kept us busy, there was a good balance of activities, optional activities and free time. Being part of a group made the experience really good fun and our CEO was excellent. The people definitely made the trip. I enjoyed seeing so much of the country and the variety of city, park and beach that we were able to experience throughout the trip. Our CEO organised great group meals and the standard of the hostels we stayed in was very high.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

The trip was interesting. The tour guide did a great job giving explaining things. We left early each day to miss the crowds. I loved the Cliffs of Moher. The optional experiences were extremely entertaining and fun.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Swiss and Italian Spotlight

Amazing sites, great guides. The itinerary is very aggressive, understandably so considering the sites we were afforded. Some of the sites were extremely crowded and made for difficulty hearing the local guide. Overall very positive experience though.

Highlights of Portugal

Our CEO Alexiane was amazing and gave suggestions for everyone in our group making sure we all had a good time despite one having a minor injury. The included activities were great and we had the opportunity to do choose other activities in the free time we had. Overall a great experience!

What people love about 7 Day Europe Tours

Nikolai was FANTASTIC!!!! He was a great tour leader. The tour took us to many places and he educated us well. However, just a few negative comments. The hotels were not satisfactory ....I am used to better hotels when I travel. Carrying my luggage throughout the tour was very burdensome. I am an older person, and although I am in great shape, I did not want to be responsible for carrying my luggage everywhere. There was an 89 year old man on our trip. He had a real hard time catching up. I usually go on escorted tours where my luggage, and everything else, is handled by the guides, not by me. I loved the places that wer went to and overall I would suggest people take Tourradar and Intrepid if they don't mind doing some of the labor involved.

Overall the trip was well coordinated. There were minor glitches that were easily resolved

The tour provided fabulous, fun & incredible memories. Plus new friendships with adorable people met.

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Discover & Explore More Extraordinary Destinations

You have a multi-city, multi-country European vacation in mind for your next dream getaway trip. While you like a ready-planned trip, joining an escorted or group tour with a bunch of strangers is not your thing. Planning a multi-city trip on your own, however, especially when you have limited knowledge about the destinations you’ll visit and limited time off to travel can be overwhelming, time-consuming, and costly.

This is where we come in…

Whether you decide to plan this once-in-a-lifetime journey on your own or with the help of our experts, we’re there with you every step of the way. 

Why Choosing Us for Your Trip

We don’t just create amazing vacation packages; we craft memories that will last a lifetime…one journey at a time. Here’s what travelers love about us and why choosing us for your next trip is a no-brainer.

From planning to booking, traveling to in-destination support, we’re with you every step of the way. Every stage of the process is designed to help you make the most of your trip, taking your travel preferences, personal interests, travel companions, and budget into account.

Our complete multi-city package covers planning, booking, and support. It typically includes flights, airport transfers, accommodation, transportation between cities/countries, sightseeing and activities. It’s a full vacation package designed to minimize the stress of multi-destination traveling.

Only experienced multi-city travelers with first-hand knowledge of the destinations we offer craft your vacation package. From start to finish, your vacation is crafted with tips from our own travels incorporated into yours. We ensure your journey will be one to remember for years to come.

Our direct partnerships with over 250 suppliers across the globe specialize in flights, cruises, hotels, transportation, activities and more. With access to these specialists, we have endless ways to customize your trip at the best price possible.

Do you find yourself searching endlessly for deals, only to be disappointed with the final cost, and it doesn’t even include everything? Well, our packages include everything you need with upfront pricing. We believe in transparency, so you’ll never waste your time or come across unexpected costs.

We’re completely transparent about our pricing. Regardless of what option you choose, you get the best value deals, with full customization and support. We don’t believe in commission or markups and we’d never create a package that we wouldn’t love to book ourselves!

What Makes Us Stand Out

Learn more about what we do, how we stand out from the crowd and how our deals are crafted with you, the traveler, in mind.

Package Deal Provider

Our deals are only crafted in-house or by our approved partners – we don’t gather deals from other sites. By doing so, our multi-city packages offer outstanding value and can cost up to 50% less than other travel sites.

Unique Travel Marketpalce

We narrow down the overwhelming amount of options you find on DIY meta-search and travel deal sites. Packages showcased on our Marketplace only present you with relevant products specific to your traveling needs.

Experienced Travel Experts

With direct access to over 250 of the best travel suppliers, we can manage all your travel needs. The key difference? We don’t believe in commission or markups – so these savings are directly passed on to you.

100% Tailor-Made Trips

Our trips are fully personalized and 100% tailor-made by a destination expert to fit your multi-city needs. In addition to that, we include in-destination support so you can enjoy special journeys, stress-free.

Exclusive Memberhip

Are you a frequent traveler? Enjoy unlimited trip planning anytime and to anywhere with no fees for an entire year with our Insider Club Membership ! Plus, explore beyond Europe, enjoy member-only deals and earn cash incentives!

Join a community of multi-city travelers and like-minded individuals! Reach out on our travel forum + get access to our Insider eMagazine, regular travel updates, inspiration and tips all dedicated to multi-destination traveling.

Have questions about your upcoming trip or can’t decide if MultiCityTrips is right for you? Schedule a free 30-minute call with one of our destination experts today!

Extra Value at No Extra Charge

Each trip we create is unique to you, but that’s not all. We offer numerous added extras at no extra charge to ensure your journey is the best it can be.

Multi-City Flights

To provide the best value while ensuring maximum comfort and a hassle-free experience for our travelers, all of our multi-city flights are handpicked. The flights chosen for your package will be either non-stop, or the best one-stop connection only flights with 1 checked bag included!

If you are traveling with just a carry-on or backpack, we can save you even more on your exclusive air-inclusive package deal – we’re talking about up to a few hundred dollars per person! All deals, regardless of class type, include airfare, all airline-related taxes and fuel surcharges. We feel confident in saying we have the best value multi-city, air-inclusive package deals on the market.

Travel Technology

We’re passionate about travel technology, as much as we are everything else related to travel! That’s why we’ve integrated the best itinerary technology throughout our entire process. From day one, our unique systems help to fully personalize your travel experiences.

Simply put, the exclusive itinerary that we create for you will become your all-in-one travel guide, with everything you need for your trip. This includes a detailed, tailor-made daily itinerary, map, all your booking confirmations, e-tickets, a travel checklist and useful travel information with audio guides for the destinations you’ll visit. View or access it via email, tablet, mobile phone or desktop – we even have an invite-only private mobile app. Want to go offline? You can download your travel documents to have with you on the go.

Solo Travelers

As solo travelers ourselves, we understand people’s desire to be independent and believe you shouldn’t have to be punished for traveling alone! We don’t charge any additional fees for solo travelers, however some suppliers such as cruise lines, hotels, and tour operators do.

To get around this, we compare the products that fit your travel needs, choosing the best suitable option for your plans. We will try to source products that waive the single supplement fee, but for suppliers who do have higher solo fees, we will always try our best to negotiate prices on your behalf. We aim to bring you the best solo traveler deal possible.

Your dream vacation is 100% customized to your travel needs in just 5 easy steps!

Trip by Travel Experts

Need help planning your multi-city trip to Europe? Our travel experts have first-hand knowledge of the destinations you’ll be traveling to. Let us personalized your trip from scratch with custom planning or pick from one of our pre-designed packages!

MultiCityTRUST

The ultimate list of services and support designed to make your trip a journey of a lifetime. It’s MultiCityTrips’ way of adding more value to your trip; we go the extra mile to thank you for placing your trust in us for your vacation(s)!

MultiCityTRUST is included in all of our custom planning and pre-designed packages. It includes:

• 100% fully personalized travel experiences with a daily customized itinerary
• A designated destination expert to craft, book, and manage your entire trip
• All booking and reservation services for your entire trip (both mentioned in your package and anything extra you might need such as restaurant reservations or other tours/activities)
• We craft your package and plan your entire trip in advance, just book later whenever you are ready
• A private travel itinerary and app to be used both online & offline
• Complete peace of mind thanks to 24/7 in-destination support

Featured Packages

These air-inclusive, pre-designed multi-city European vacation packages can be personalized to suit your needs!

flight directions_car hotel free_breakfast directions_railway local_activity local_see local_police

6 Nights/ 7 Days Signature Escape to Amsterdam and Brussels

6 Nights/ 7 Days Signature Escape to Athens and Istanbul

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Testimonials & Reviews

Don’t take our word for it, read what our travelers have to say about their travel experiences with us!

Travel Coaching/Consulting Call Option

Want to plan and book your upcoming trip yourself? If this is your first time traveling to any of the European destinations or you are new to multi-city, multi-country travel but prefer to manage every part of your trip on your own, this option is for you! 

For just  $150 per hour , our destination expert can answer any questions you might have as you plan and book your dream trip. From assisting with route planning, and destination selection, recommending the best areas or places to stay, the best transportation options, things to do and see, saving tips and so much more! 

Ready to plan your trip with our help? Book your private coaching session with our destination expert now and we’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours!

What's New

To learn more about what’s new this week, tap the arrow sign to expand.

At MultiCityTrips , we’re taking the “Reviews & Testimonials” of our service to a whole new level! Don’t take our word for it or checking only some generic reviews you found over the internet. Starting August 2022, we’re proudly featuring some of the most amazing trips, incredible travel stories with detailed testimonials/reviews from our past travelers who kindly shared their unforgettable journeys with us after their trips. From a month-long trip to complex fully personalized multi-city, multi-country itineraries across Europe, and more.

Read their incredible stories, enjoy the beautiful pictures that were taken during their trips and be inspired by the many amazing experiences they had during their visits to these amazing European destinations.

Check out our “ Featured Trips & Testimonials ” page now.

Trip Inspiration & Resources

Whether you decide to plan your own trip or with the help of our travel experts, our “ Travel Inspiration” page is jam-packed with travel articles, travel guides (both blog posts and video guides), itineraries, travel resources, packing tips, and so much more to help with all your travel planning needs.

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Brussels

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

7 of the Best Spanish Islands You Will Love

2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary & The Best Way to Explore The City You Love

9 Incredible Hidden Gems in Iceland You’ll Love

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Amsterdam

Top 10 of the Best Free Things to Do in Venice

Top 10 of the Best Free Things to Do in Rome

15 Important Things Not to Do in Europe

Tipping in Europe: 11 Things You Need to Know on How to Tip Around Europe

Travel video guides.

Looking for more travel inspiration for your next trip? Check out our latest travel video guides from MultiCityTrips Travel Channel . We publish new videos on our YouTube channel every Monday & Thursday!

Need help planning a multi-city trip to Europe and not sure which planning option is right for you? Schedule a free 30-minute call with one of our destination experts today!

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Independence by Globus Europe Tours

35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)

A complex, interesting, beautiful city is among the most remarkable kinds of places we can experience in our lifetimes, and there’s no doubt that the best cities to visit in Europe rank among the absolute best in the world.

There’s something magical about cities: the best ones have a life all their own, made up of the millions of moments lived and stories told in (and about) them each and every day.

I truly believe that there’s a city for every personality when traveling, even for those who don’t consider themselves “city people”, so to speak, in their day-to-day lives.

Once upon a time, we didn’t think we loved cities… and then we fell in love with traveling.

We’ve since moved to Europe, and picked a beautiful city (Lisbon) as our home base.

We’ve rounded up the best cities to visit in Europe, from the absolute icons to smaller gems tucked in quiet(er) corners of the continent.

No matter what kind of European city you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

Table of Contents

Once You Narrow Down Your Dream Cities in Europe…

The most iconic cities to visit in europe, other best cities to visit in europe (that are slightly less iconic), best small cities to visit in europe, more cool cities to add to your europe bucket list.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

If you’re ready to start planning your trip in more detail after reading this guide to the best cities in Europe, consider checking out our guide to planning a trip to Europe next!

We also have a detailed guide to train travel in Europe , a guide to the best European road trips , several packing lists for Europe , and a roundup of the best travel tips for Europe here on Our Escape Clause that might help kickstart your general planning.

In addition, we’ve also written about most of these European cities in more detailed guides!

We’ll link relevant blog posts throughout this list of the best cities to visit in Europe, if you’re curious about our coverage of any particular city, you can use the search bar in the top right corner of the site to see what we’ve written.

These cities almost need no introduction: woven into our collective culture, from books to movies to historical stories, the most iconic cities to visit in Europe are certainly all well worth the trip to reach them. 

As one of the most visited cities on the planet, Paris tops plenty of Europe bucket lists around the world, and even travel bucket lists more generally.

Home to the iconic Eiffel Tower, the world’s largest art museum at the Louvre (not to mention the hundreds of other incredible museums in Paris), legendary cuisine, and plenty of other highlights like Notre Dame, Montmartre , and the beloved banks of the Seine, Paris is absolutely one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

The capital of the United Kingdom and once the seat of the most powerful empire in the world, London is positively packed with an interesting history and iconic sites.

However, London also feels like an extremely modern city, allowing for visitors to put together an excellent London bucket list that includes historical attractions like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square , right alongside the bustling Theatre District (London has one of the best theater scenes in the world).

Plus, for millennials like us, London is home to the Harry Potter Studio Tour and plenty of other related sights–not to mention plenty of Harry Potter-themed gifts and souvenirs to shop for!.

It’s a close race, but on more days than not, we consider Rome to be our absolute favorite city in the world.

Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome has a captivating quality of impressing upon you its endurance, its consistency, and its strength with every street explored and monument admired.

Home to icons like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain as well as equally impressive spots that are nearly devoid of tourists, exploring Rome, and peeling back its layers one by one, can easily be a lifelong project.

Gaudi, beaches, and the Gothic Quarter : unique and fascinating Barcelona is an incredibly popular place to kick off European adventures!

With its colorful neighborhoods, coastal location, thriving city center, and utterly unique architecture, it’s not hard to see why.

Of course, the most famous landmark in Barcelona , its basilica La Sagrada Familia, remains incomplete: construction began in 1882 and is currently projected to wrap up in 2026!

With its stunning architecture primarily dating to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age and its many canals juxtaposed with its modern reputation for partying, visiting Amsterdam can often feel like visiting a city of extremes.

Whichever part of the city appeals to you, Amsterdam is certainly worth visiting .

As one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe and one of the most unique cities in the world, Amsterdam lives up to its reputation as a compelling and incredibly beautiful place to visit.

Want to ditch (some of) the infamous crowds?

Consider bundling up and visiting Amsterdam in winter !

Venice is, without a shadow of doubt, one of the most unique cities in the world–so of course it also ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

Venice’s mere existence is improbable.

Made up of 118 islands divided by 150 canals and then knitted together by 400 footbridges, Venice’s topography is like nowhere else.

Once a powerful empire that controlled the seas all the way to Crete and held the title of the wealthiest city in Europe, Venice’s 13th-century peak can still be felt in certain places today, including in its iconic Piazza San Marco , in its ornate palaces, and along its gorgeous bridges.

Before visiting, we were Venice skeptics–but less than a day into our first trip there, we were completely smitten with Venice.

Now, we can’t imagine that we’ll ever stop going back!

Byzantium, Constantinople, New Rome: Istanbul has had many names throughout its more than 2500 years of history, and today it is celebrated as one of the most unique cities in the world.

With one of the longest and most complicated histories of any of these cities in Europe, Istanbul is actually, technically, only half European.

One half of the city lies on the European continent, and the other half, located an easy ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, is located in Asia.

In addition to being able to visit two continents in a single day, the top things to do in Istanbul include touring the phenomenal Hagia Sophia, shopping in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, admiring the Blue Mosque, and enjoying the views from the top of the Galata Tower.

Emphasis on slightly less iconic: these cities are still easily among the most popular cities to visit in Europe.

Unlike some of the longstanding icons above, though, many of these European cities gained (or regained) popularity on the tourism circuit at some point within the last few decades.

In our slightly biased opinion, as it’s one of our personal favorites, Budapest easily ranks among the top ten best cities to visit in Europe.

Set on the Danube, with its iconic Parliament nestled right up against the river and majestic architecture rising on both sides of the river, Budapest is simultaneously incredibly regal and beautiful, and incredibly laid-back and affordable.

Known for its compelling history, thermal baths that dot the city, stunning architecture, and engaging nightlife, there is an overwhelming number of things to do in Budapest !

And, it packs plenty of variety in, too: in Budapest, you can have breakfast in a luxurious coffee shop in the morning, explore the city’s caves and thermal baths in the afternoon, and then relax at a ruin pub in the evening–and that’s just within the first day!

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague absolutely looks the part of the quintessential European city, all ornate buildings framed by a winding river and overlooked by the majestic Prague Castle.

Once known as an offbeat European city to visit, the Prague of today is immensely popular (with the crowds to match, especially during the height of summer), but it is still absolutely magical to visit.

Be sure to meander your way across the Charles Bridge, explore the Prague Castle, admire the Old Town Square, and drink plenty of that famous Czech beer while visiting Prague .

And yes, the legend is true: at some restaurants, the beer is indeed cheaper than water!

Less popular with foreign tourists than colorful Barcelona, but no less captivating, Spain’s capital city is simultaneously regal and relaxed.

Home to incredible sights like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and gorgeous Plaza Mayor, spending a few days in Madrid means having a chance to experience fantastic food, incredible art, and a hearty dose of Spanish culture.

Madrid’s biggest park, El Retiro, is among our favorite urban parks in all of Europe, and definitely belongs on your list of things to do in Madrid !

As the largest city (and airport hub) on the French Riviera, Nice is both busy and beautiful.

In other words, Nice is exactly what you would hope for from a coastal city that boasts one of the most iconic urban beaches in the world!

A visit to Nice practically requires spending some time on the beach and a taking stroll along the picturesque Promenade des Anglais, of course, but there are plenty of other fun things to do in Nice as well.

While you’re there, be sure to climb Castle Hill, check out the Sun Fountain, and enjoy the colorful architecture of the old town.

Nice is also perfectly placed to use as a base for incredible day trips, including to nearby Monaco, Eze, St. Paul de Vence, and Menton.

To be perfectly frank, Athens doesn’t rank among the most beautiful cities in Europe as far as we’re concerned… but it’s still one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

Greece’s capital is often used as a gateway to its (rightfully) famous islands, but the city itself absolutely deserves to be explored as well.

Athens is home to some of the most famous Greek ruins in the world, including the phenomenal Acropolis (where you’ll find the Parthenon) and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Ancient Greece is only the beginning of the story, though!

You’ll also find trendy neighborhoods like Plaka and incredible museums like the National Archaeological Museum when exploring Athens.

And, quite honestly, even if there was nothing else to do there, it would be worth visiting Athens just to eat enormous amounts of Greek food .

If there’s one word that comes to mind for describing Vienna, it’s regal.

From the world-famous opera house to the Hofburg Palace to the glitz and glamour of Vienna’s cafe culture, Vienna gives the impression of wealth, strength, and beauty at every turn.

This is hardly an accident: as the seat of the Hapsburgs for around 600 years, Vienna definitely shows signs of being ruled by a fairly modern empire.

For example, while other European city centers frequently maintain a good portion of their small streets and medieval architecture, wide swaths of Vienna’s were cleared away in favor of wide boulevards and sweeping avenues.

If you’re not sure when to visit Vienna, it’s hard to argue that there’s a better time than during the holiday season.

Not only is the cafe culture particularly lovely when it’s cold outside, but Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the best in Europe , and the perfect way to kick off a Christmas trip in Austria !

Canals, cyclists, and hygge: these are just a few of the delightful things you’ll find in Copenhagen.

Denmark’s capital city is known for its many cyclists, its beautiful canals and picturesque harbor (Nyhavn), and recently, its extreme culture of coziness.

Hygge, a word that means something approximating coziness and contentment, is a large feature of Copenhagen.

Since the word has been popularized in popular culture worldwide, even more travelers flock to Copenhagen not just to snap photos at Nyhavn or determine for themselves if the Little Mermaid Statue is, in fact, as underwhelming as they say, but to experience Danish hygge for themselves.

And, while hygge and a northern climate may not be words that bring “beach trip” to mind, Copenhagen’s picturesque location also makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with beaches !

The capital of Bavaria is definitely known best for one thing on the tourism circuit: its incredible Oktoberfest celebration that draws travelers from across the globe.

Even outside of the annual festival, though, Munich remains one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

While there, check out Marienplatz and the gorgeous Munich Residence, as well as the Nymphenburg Palace and (at least) one of the city’s fun beer gardens.

Munich is also within day-tripping distance of the famous Neuschwanstein Castle , so if you have a few days to spend in the area, consider escaping to the Bavarian countryside for a day!

Germany’s capital city may not be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it is an incredibly interesting one.

It’s well worth experiencing at least a few days in Berlin to get a feel for this unique European city.

Known today primarily for its intense Cold War history and its quirky, artistic culture, Berlin is packed with interesting sights and things to do.

While in Berlin, be sure to check out the famous Brandenburg Gate, see the Reichstag Building, and, of course, see the remains of the Berlin Wall and accompanying memorials.

For great views of the city, consider heading up the Berlin TV Tower, and to see the city’s best museums, head to Museum Island.

Scotland’s stunning capital city is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe and one that captures the adoration and imagination of most who visit it.

With hints of fairytale magic in the air (helped along, no doubt, by the city’s ties to Harry Potter lore), Edinburgh is packed with fun things to do.

During your visit, be sure to stroll down Royal Mile, admire the views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, and enjoy Edinburgh Castle.

Travelers who love the arts may want to plan their visit for August when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over the city.

Fair warning, though: prices in the city absolutely skyrocket during the festival!

If you’re hoping to see a smaller city in Europe, then these cities in Europe might be for you!

In most of these cities, you can enjoy most of the major tourist attractions in only a couple of days or less and/or more or less exclusively tour the city on foot.

As the capital city of Alsace, Strasbourg is a unique delight of a city nestled in northeastern France and is a gateway to the famed Alsace Wine Route, glorious mountains, and the charming, colorful smaller villages of Alsace.

The region of Alsace was once held by Germany, and the result is that in Strasbourg you can find hints of German influences among the French culture, all blended together to create the unique Alsatian culture you will find in the city today.

Croatia’s most famous city has risen to international stardom in recent years, in large part thanks to its role as King’s Landing on Game of Thrones, but this bite-sized coastal city is a magical place to visit even for those who have never seen a single episode of the show.

Dubrovnik’s crown jewel is its intact town walls that still encircle the old town, where you can walk fully around the city, with the terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik glistening on one side and the shimmering Adriatic Sea on the other.

While visiting Dubrovnik , be sure to also check out the view from Mount Srd, the views from the Lovrijenac Fortress, and, if you’re up for a bit of a physical challenge, a kayaking tour to Lokrum Island!

As the Cradle of the Renaissance and one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, you might expect Florence to be a large city, but no.

Travelers can easily walk the bulk of the historic center, and some of the areas beyond it, in just a couple of days–no other transportation is necessary!

Florence is an endlessly beautiful city, and so packed full of world-class artwork that the city is almost a work of art unto itself.

From the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore to the incredible masterpiece that is Michelangelo’s David to the Ponte Vecchio to all the treasures of the Uffizi Museum, looking at Florence is like looking at Renaissance-era art, architecture and engineering come to life. 

Nestled in southwestern Germany, the small university city of Heidelberg is far from the most popular city to visit in Germany, but it absolutely deserves to make the list.

Set on the beautiful Neckar River and overlooked by the impressive Heidelberg Palace, Heidelberg looks every bit the part of a fairytale-esque small European city.

And it’s not just modern visitors and the students who flock to study at Heidelberg University who understand the magic of Heidelberg: Mark Twain was inspired by the city and spoke of it very fondly after spending a summer living there.

In fact, according to some accounts, the idea for The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was conceived thanks to the Neckar River.

While that’s partially inaccurate, there’s no doubt that Twain was captivated by the beauty of Heidelberg!

When travelers plan a trip to Slovenia, it’s rare that the charming capital of Ljubljana tops the list of what they hope to see.

And that’s understandable: it’s hard to beat the majesty of Lake Bled, the beauty of Triglav National Park, or the adorable seaside beauty of Piran .

That being said, though, Ljubljana itself is also a great place to spend a couple of days in Slovenia.

Not only is it conveniently located within day-tripping distance of ever-popular Bled, it’s a fun city to experience in its own right.

Home to the lovely Ljubljana Castle, the fascinating street-art-covered neighborhood of Metelkova, the quirky Dragon Bridge, and colorful Preseren Square–not to mention plenty of charming cafes and delicious restaurants–Ljubljana is an easy European city to love.

As the hometown of Mozart and as a city surrounded by hills that are alive with The Sound of Music, charming Salzburg, Austria is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Regardless of whether you choose a sunshine-and-blooming-flower-filled summer trip or a festive Christmas market trip, Salzburg is bound to charm!

Overlooked by the striking Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg is a feast for the eyes.

It’s also home to highlights like the beautiful Mirabell Palace (known, among other things, for its status as a filming location for The Sound of Music), the incredible Salzburg Cathedral, and both Mozart’s Birthplace and later Residence, and is an incredibly fun city to visit.

Located in southern Poland, Krakow is best known on the tourism circuit for its proximity to two things that lay entirely outside the city: Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

While both of those places are worth visiting (and in the case of Auschwitz-Birkenau, arguably very important to experience if you’re in the area and feel up to a very emotional day), the charming city of Krakow itself is also home to interesting sights that make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

Be sure to explore the impressive Wawel Castle as part of your trip to Krakow, as well as St. Mary’s Basilica, Town Hall Tower, and, of course, a milk bar or two to enjoy classic Polish pierogi.

The prettiest city in Belgium (in our opinion, anyway) is bite-sized and beautiful, easy to cover in just a day or two, and absolutely gorgeous from every angle–though if you ask us, its best angle is from the water during a canal cruise.

While visiting Bruges, consider climbing to the top of the Belfry for incredible views, seeking out the beautiful Bonifacius Bridge, enjoying a canal cruise, checking out the colorful Market Square, stopping by the Basilica of Holy Blood, and relaxing at Minnewater Park.

As a small and incredibly popular European city to visit, Bruges can feel crowded at times–but by planning a winter trip , you can experience (somewhat) reduced crowd levels.

It may be a bit of a stretch to include an entire country of roughly 33,000 people on a list of the best cities to visit in Europe, but San Marino is worth making a slight exception for.

Styled as the oldest republic in Europe (founding date: 301 AD) and simultaneously the least-visited country in Europe, San Marino is an absolutely gorgeous (though yes, quite small) country that is entirely surrounded by Italy.

Featuring castle and countryside views from Mount Titano that are worthy of any fairytale and very interesting history (you can stroll right into Parliament to check it out–no tour necessary), San Marino is definitely well worth a visit! 

While you can take a San Marino day trip from Bologna , it’s a fun place to see at night (once the day-trippers leave) as well.

Nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, the beautiful city of Annecy, France, is located less than an hour south of Geneva and features beautiful views of Lake Annecy (considered the cleanest lake in Europe), delicious Alpine cuisine (including all kinds of amazing cheese), and stunning canals.

The combination of Annecy’s incredible gastronomy, colorful old town surrounded by canals, and crisp Alpine air make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

While Annecy is a popular day trip from Geneva, this small city is worth enjoying for at least a couple of days if you can spare the time.

If you can, schedule your trip to Annecy to coincide with at least one market day.

Fridays and Sundays are the biggest market days of the week, but there is a smaller market that takes place on Tuesdays as well.

Surrounded by medieval walls dating to the Saxons, and then by the Carpathian mountains beyond that, Brasov is an incredibly beautiful city to visit in the heart of Transylvania, and definitely deserves to feature on any trip to the region!

Must-see sights include the impressive Gothic-style Black Church, both the Black and White Towers, the views from Tampa Mountain, and the charming Council Square.

And, though it’s not within the city itself, we can’t mention Brasov without mentioning Bran Castle.

This infamous castle is located about a 30-minute drive away and is an absolutely incredible sight (though, fair warning: the Dracula connections are nothing by myth).

Set less than an hour away from Florence by train, Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, and is absolutely beautiful, packing in gorgeous Italian architecture and plenty of museums in its small size.

The biggest reason to visit, though, isn’t its beauty: it’s the food.

Bologna is one of the absolute best cities to visit in Europe for foodies.

As the capital of Emilia-Romagna, you can thank the region surrounding Bologna for mortadella (the original and far superior version of what non-Italians call bologna), parmigiano-reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, and tagliatelle al ragu (aka pasta bolognese)… just to name a small sliver of its delicacies.

Even with one day in Bologna , you can eat extremely well, see several of the most popular attractions, and even seek out a few hidden gems like the city’s canals.

Away from bustling capital cities and world-icon status, Europe boasts hundreds of other incredibly cool, lesser-visited cities that are still absolutely worthy of being considered one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Here are just a few of them–consider mixing a couple of these into your Europe bucket list along with the more iconic options above!

As the capital of Spain’s southern Andalucia region, beautiful Seville is known for its stunning architecture (including its magnificent cathedral), its many orange trees that bloom in the summer, its flamenco culture, its seemingly endless sunshine (and heat), its beautiful Alcazar, and its photo-worthy Plaza de Espana.

It’s also known for acting as a filming location for two of the most famous franchises around!

The Alcazar played the Water Gardens of Dorne in Game of Thrones, and the Plaza de Espana was featured as the city of Theed in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.

Seville is also an excellent launchpad for a full Andalucia road trip !

The capital of Serbia is definitely one of the least-visited of the European cities rounded up in this travel guide, but it certainly deserves more attention.

Colorful, historic, and incredibly affordable, Belgrade is a fun and invigorating city that is absolutely packed with things to do .

While you’re there, be sure to check out the gorgeous Church of Saint Sava, the Belgrade Fortress, and the Knez Mihailov shopping street.

If you have a few days to spend in Belgrade, consider also adding on a day trip to colorful, nearby Novi Sad!

With its waterfront setting, steep hills, iconic trams, and gigantic red suspension bridge, Lisbon draws a lot of comparisons to San Francisco–but luckily, a trip to Lisbon is far more affordable.

Colorful and laid-back, Lisbon’s architecture is beautiful, its culture warm and inviting, and its attractions beautiful, making it one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

While you’re there, be sure to stroll through the historic neighborhood of Alfama, ride the popular Tram 28 past beautiful views (or at least snap photos of it going by), admire the city from a couple of different miradouros (viewpoints) check out the Time Out Market, and enjoy the sunset along the Tagus River.

Be sure not to leave without eating a dozen or so pasteis de nata, either!

Hilly, crowded, chaotic Naples is certainly a bit controversial among these best cities to visit in Europe–people tend to either love or hate it–but as we adore it, we want to include it here.

Built on the coast of Campania and boasting phenomenal views of Mount Vesuvius from its shores, Naples is an absolutely dynamic city.

Its streets are generally packed, its salesmen a bit more intense than those further north in Italy, and yes, it is a bit dirtier and rougher around the edges than Florence or Venice. 

However, it’s also gorgeous–places like the San Carlo Theater, Piazza del Plebiscito, and Galleria Umberto I are all beautiful–and incredibly interesting.

Features like the Bourbon Tunnel, Naples Underground, Castel Nuovo, and Naples Archaeological Museum are all incredible places to visit, and even if you don’t find Naples’ environment or attractions quite to your taste, there’s always its world-famous pizza to grab (and hold) your attention.

With incredible day trip options like Pompeii  and the legendary Amalfi Coast , you sure can’t beat its location, either!

Estonia’s small-yet-stunning capital city has long been under the radar as far as tourism is concerned, but luckily, that is starting to change.

With a beautiful cityscape right on the water, affordable prices, and plenty of fun things to do (be sure to add checking out the views from Toompea Hill and strolling through the hipster haven of Telliskivi Creative City to your list of things to see), Tallinn is a fantastic city to explore for a few days.

Once you wrap up, you can even travel by boat to easily extend your trip to another country!

Helsinki, Finland is only about 2 hours away from Tallinn by ferry.

Portugal’s “second city” has been gaining in popularity in recent decades, but still remains somewhat under-the-radar when compared to busy Lisbon.

Set on the Duoro River, Porto is known for its gorgeous, colorful architecture, churches covered in gorgeous azulejos (Portuguese hand-painted tiles), its dramatic views, and–most of all–for its port!

Once upon a time, the famous port grown in the nearby Duoro Valley was floated down the river to Porto, and today, you can still tour traditional port houses along the banks of the river (complete with tastings, of course).

Less visited than Florence or Milan , and yet stunningly beautiful, Verona is set in southern Veneto, nestled on the banks of the Adige River.

Home of a remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheater, amazing views, and the legend of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is as captivating as it is beautiful.

Be sure to enjoy the views from the Castel San Pietro and the Torre dei Lamberti as part of your visit.

And, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider taking a whitewater rafting trip down the Adige!

As the second-largest city in Norway and nicknamed the Heart of the Fjords, Bergen doesn’t generally top European bucket lists (at least for those of us that hail from outside the continent)–but perhaps it should.

Featuring highlights like the traditional wooden houses of Bryggen, a bustling fish market, and sweeping views from Mount Fløyen, Bergen makes for a fantastic introduction to Norway.

As the gateway to Norway’s incredible fjord beauty and home to what is arguably one of the most picturesque harbors in Europe, stunningly beautiful Bergen definitely ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

30 thoughts on “35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)”

No Plovdiv or Sofia or Veliko Tarnovo. It is not a good enough list. ?

If I ever expand this list to 50, at least Sofia will make the list! Sofia holds a special place in our hearts, we’ve spent months there visiting good friends of ours.

Add all of Ireland to this list ?

Birmingham England

Birmingham is very much a cultural hotspot in the uk. It has lovely Victorian industrial buildings and has more miles of canal than Venice.

Most depressing soulless sprawled out place I’ve ever lived

What about Dublin??? Great atmosphere, great people, great history Cork, Kilkenny and Galway for smaller cities!

Bucharest is also a very beautiful city, once called “little Paris”!

In agreement with all of the listings even living on two of them! I would add Siena to the list of small cities to visit

We love Siena! It’s definitely a fantastic place to visit.

Siena is beautiful but I think Lucca is better!

Lucca is one of my favorites too! Tried to keep the level of Italy in check on this post, LOL, but I could easily do a whole list of only Italian cities, too. 🙂

Worth expanding the list. Need Wales, perhaps Conway, more Spain for example Caceres, Burgos, what of the lovely Island of Crete – Xania? And surely can’t miss Brittany and San Malo. Actually this is impossible….. Expand to 100 and leave out the iconic cos people know them? Be so good to have loads more of less well known.

Also ireland and Northern Ireland as Belfast portstewart portrush and some Irish cities

Surprised none of Switzerland’s cities are in there. I loved Lucerne and Zurich. Magical feeling walking around both cities.

I would also include Stockholm, Helsinki, Dublin, Moscow, and Oslo. Vienna, Amsterdam, Bruges and Lisbon are in my modest opinion quite overrated cities.

I disagree about Vienna and Dublin but agree about Moscow and Lisbon

Budapest and Vienna Salzburg or Brussels with Brugees? This a real question. After 2 years in quarauntine we want to explore Europe. (Budapest first time )

Very hard decision! They’re all wonderful in their own way.

If we had to pick, though, we’d pick Budapest/Vienna/Salzburg. 🙂

Τhank you Ms. Kate, After a lot of videos and Reviews and even though Bruges looks fantastic will be closer to choose Budapest and Salzburg. (even though Vienna is for the Second time after 2017). But still, this about as you wrote is a really hard decision if you think Bruges Ghent and of course Amsterdam that is really close to all of them … But we will be closer to your opinion that why i wrote here to take a feedback. Thank you for this

Budapest all day long

Warsaw is a beautiful city

I totally agree Warsaw is so quick changing city I have seen almost whole Europe and over 100 capitals in the world and I am so happy that I live in Warsaw

If you like Amsterdam, then don’t forget to visit Leiden. It’has the same look and feel as Amsterdam with canals and beautiful museums.

I have traveled many European cities mostly on business and a few with my wife on pleasure. I agree with your selections and comments. Your list is also very informative for me to visit the places we have not been to. Thank you for your postings.

Great Blog! You really made a very good choice of your top 35 cities in Europe (and choosing only 35 is extremely difficult). Keep the good work up and have fun travelling, now that it is possible again.

Saint Petersburg should be included. Beautiful place.

Hi Kate Have loved reading your post. Had been thinking of visiting Milan but see it doesn’t get a mention in this list. What are your thoughts on its merits? Thanks Barbra

We’ve visited Milan several times (were just there again a couple of weeks ago, in fact), but it’s not among our favorite cities in Italy!

That’s very subjective, of course, many people love it. As the business capital of Italy we don’t find it quite as idyllic and picturesque as many Italian cities, but of course its major sites–the Duomo, the Last Supper, etc–are all wonderful and worth visiting. We don’t dislike it, just don’t love it as much as other places.

We do have a guide to spending a day there! Here it is: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-milan-itinerary/

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The 5 Best European Cities To Visit: Where To Go and When

E urope is a hotspot for tourism due to its impressive diversity and access. There are a multitude of cultures, cuisines and landmarks in Europe. The continent is also relatively easy to get around, since public transportation there is efficient. Some travelers may even opt to travel around Europe all at once since there are jaw dropping views within close proximity. The continent is a traveler’s paradise since the infrastructure is well designed for commuting . There are so many popular destinations within Europe, so it may be difficult for travelers to determine where exactly they should go. These are the best European cities to visit and the ideal season for travel in each. 

London 

London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Travelers visiting London can experience the top attractions in the bustling urban metropolis. It is a cultural capital with a plethora of historical sites that travelers can witness. This metropolitan city has plenty for travelers to explore. Some of the most popular things to do and see are the Big Ben clock tower, Westminster Abbey, The British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. Foodies can indulge in some English delicacies like fish and chips, traditional English breakfast and bangers and mash. There are many other cuisines that travelers can try in London, including Indian, Italian, Chinese, Thai, French and many other cultural foods. 

Best Times To Visit

The best time to visit London, England depends on the traveler. For the best sightseeing weather, travelers should make their way there between March and May. The temperature in this season is around 60 degrees, so travelers should dress themselves in layers. The high season for travel in London is in the summer and winter. If travelers want to avoid crowds, they should not visit London between June to August or December to January. 

Paris 

Paris, France is a major tourism destination that has plenty of globally recognizable monuments and cultural hallmarks. Even the cityscape of Paris is quite popular due to its iconic landmarks. French culture is all around very influential, but beyond that Paris is a remarkable city with plenty to see. The architectural wonders of Paris are a big appeal of the city. In fact, over 30 million travelers enjoy the picturesque city of light each year. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace, Paris Catacombs, Luxembourg Gardens and the Champs-Elysees are among the best attractions in the city. Tourists can enjoy the cheeses, soups, macarons and fresh breads of Paris while visiting Paris. 

The best times to visit Paris are either in the spring or autumn. During these times travelers can expect better temperatures. This weather allows them to comfortably sit outside and enjoy things like Parisian cafe tables. The weather is nice and moderate in the city between April to May and September to October. Travelers will even notice that there are less crowds in the tourist areas.

Rome is the capital city of Italy and it has certainly made its mark on the globe. It is among one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Some of the art, architecture and cuisine of Rome dates back 3,000 years. The city offers travelers a deep dive into ancient history and culture. There are plenty of famous sightseeing attractions in Rome that travelers should visit during their Europe trip. Some of the most popular ancient buildings for tourists to view in Rome include The Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, The Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica. There are a large number of famous remnants of the Roman Empire that have historical significance in this city. Some other things that tourists can do in Rome include guided walking tours, countryside trips, shopping, indulging in delicious Italian food and strolls around the city.  

Travelers visiting Italy should expect bigger crowds in areas like Rome. Although crowds are somewhat consistent, travelers can plan their trip so that it is as convenient as possible. Between October and April travelers will experience the least amount of crowds. The costs of accomodations are lower during this time too, but travelers may have to tolerate the chilly weather in exchange for price. Travelers should be sure to pack a jacket since weather can be around 50 and 70 degrees in Rome during this season. 

Barcelona 

Barcelona, Spain is an artistic looking and charming city with plenty for visitors to experience. The city overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is a modern hub as well as one of Spain’s most popular cities. It has a wide range of leisure activities and is a walkable city, so plenty of travelers love Barcelona. The unique architecture, beaches, culinary options and art of Barcelona keep travelers coming back. Travelers can enjoy the food of Barcelona while in the bustling city. Paella, croquettes, potato bombas and escalivada are just a few of the most popular dishes of Barcelona. Tourists commonly enjoy the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral of Barcelona, Casa Milá, Park Güell, Las Ramblas and Barceloneta Beach while in the city. Some of the most popular attractions of Barcelona are the buildings and shopping areas. Alternative activities for travelers include hot air balloon tours, walking tours, food and wine tours, private sailing tours and immersive museum experiences. 

Best Times To Visit 

The best time to travel to Barcelona is between April and July. During this time travelers will experience the best weather. Temperatures are around the mid 70’s during this season which means that the outdoor conditions are manageable. This is particularly important for travelers depending on public transportation. If sightseeing is a priority travelers should visit in early spring or autumn since there are less crowds. During the spring there is some rainfall, especially during April. Since a lot of the attractions in Barcelona are outdoors, this will definitely impact a trip. 

Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and it is a quite popular city. It has a vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. The picturesque canals, historic homes, creative spirit, liberal appeal and shopping opportunities are the top features of the city. Tourists looking to immerse themselves in this European city can try the local cuisine. Pannenkoeken, haring, oliebollen, kaas and stamppot are some of the top Dutch comfort foods. These traditional food items are popular among locals but travelers should try them while they are exploring abroad. Stamppot, a dish made from potatoes and vegetables, is the national dish. Other than cuisine, travelers can visit the top attractions of the area to learn more about Amsterdam. The Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Heineken brewery tour, red light district, Body Worlds Museum and local parks are the top things to see. 

The best months to visit Amsterdam are spring and autumn. Between April and May or September and November is the most ideal time to visit. There are less crowds and more mild weather during these seasons. Although the weather is not particularly dependable, these months provide pleasant temperatures of around 60 degrees. If travelers prefer to travel during the most affordable time to go to Amsterdam, the winter may be best. Temperatures generally are around 30 or 40 degrees during the winter, but hotel rates are low. 

What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

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Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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Uruguayan singer-songwriter Jorge Drexler is embarking on his first tour of Europe

By Teresa Medrano, The Associated Press

Posted April 12, 2024 7:08 am.

Last Updated April 12, 2024 2:26 pm.

MADRID (AP) — Capitalizing on an impressive moment in Spanish-language music, Uruguayan singer-songwriter Jorge Drexler is embarking on his first tour of Europe.

“Even Don Quixote didn’t get as far as urban Spanish-speaking music is getting today in the world. You can go everywhere and you will find music that was written in Spanish,” he told The Associated Press in an interview. “I’m happy to see that (Spanish) opens doors to places that I never thought that we could get before.”

His award-winning latest album, “Tinta y tiempo” (“Ink and time”), earned him four of his 13 Latin Grammy Awards, part of a haul that includes an Oscar.

On his tour Drexler will perform live for the first time “Derrumbe,” a song about the loss of love that he rescued from his notes. The song was included in the 2021 TV show “Todo va a estar bien”.

The European tour will be more intimate than the shows of recent years, with voice, guitar and an open repertoire — a “first date” with an audience that Drexler expects will be seeing him for the first time.

“I have always looked West,” he said, with performances in the United States, Canada, Mexico and elsewhere. “I have so much work in that part of the world that I didn’t look East enough.”

He looks forward to seeing some European cities for the first time and visiting others such as Paris and Berlin after many years. The tour will take him to Denmark, Ireland, Italy and Sweden, among other countries.

After the tour ends in mid-June, he will return to the leather armchair in his studio in Madrid to sit with a guitar and a blank piece of paper and “try to get lucky.”

But as his repertoire grows, songwriting becomes more complicated because “the more you release, the more space that occupies in your brain,” Drexler said.

“Once you’ve written 200 or 300 songs, each and every new song has to open a little space,” he said.

Resorting to artificial intelligence is not an option, at least for now. He tested ChatGPT and, although the result “was perfectly written, from a syntactic, orthographic point of view,” it lacked poetry.

“I like biographies and I like songwriters, and I like to get to know the personality of a person. And I like the mistakes that guide you through unexpected places. So, I still prefer songs written by human beings,” he said.

Drexler also enjoys collaborations in the creative process, such as the ones with C.Tangana , Rubén Blades , or Noga Erez in his previous album.

“It’s a relief for me, it relieves me from myself,” he said. “My worst enemy when it comes to writing is my past, my obsessions, the way I work. It’s what I am. And I’m happy to show it, but at the same time, it’s a big, big burden.”

In collaborating, there are no restrictions in the kind of music or the generations that listen.

“I don’t think that the music we did in the past was the (good) music, like most of my generation,” Drexler said. “(I’m) more interested in the music that my 12-year-old daughter listens to than the one that my generation used to listen to. So I try to be open to different things.”

This story has been updated to correct the number of Latin Grammys Drexler won for the album Tinta y tiempo” (“Ink and time”) and removes a reference to the song “Derrumbe” being new.

Teresa Medrano, The Associated Press

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The world’s most beautiful village is just two hours from the UK – with classic car tours & fairytale lavender fields

• Ryan Gray , Travel Reporter
• Published : 11:01, 13 Apr 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

THE world's most beautiful village is just a short flight from the UK - and is home to some amazing sights and unique tours.

Europe is home to some pretty special places, one of which has been put forward as the most attractive small town on the planet.

That's according to Travel + Leisure , who listed Gordes in France as the pick of the bunch in their list of the best looking villages in the world last year.

It sits atop a cliff overlooking the Luberon Valley in the South of France and has all the quaint hallmarks of a fairytale town, including castles, caves and monuments.

Meanwhile, tour operators take visitors around in classic French cars to show them its best attributes in the most authentic way imaginable.

Travel + Leisure compared the village to ones seen in storybooks and said: "Gordes tends to be swarming with tourists during the summer months.

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"But can you really blame visitors for wanting to soak in the magic of one of the most beautiful villages in France, if not the world?

"Perched high on a cliff above the valley, it’s a must-see destination with cobbled lanes, churches , and a monastery punctuated by lavender fields that look like they've been plucked from the pages of a storybook."

Arguably the standout of the town's attractions is the Château de Gordes, which dates all the way back as far as the 11th century.

Having been used as a fortress, a home and a school, today the castle houses art and history exhibitions and provides stunning views over the rest of the countryside to visitors.

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It's far from the only building that guests in Gordes visit, with Saint Firmin Church another favourite.

The 18th century building is described as looking "like a fortress on top of the rock" by the Gordes Village website , who say it gives the village a "citadel-like appearance".

Not all of the tourist hotspots are out on display like the castle and the church however, with The Cellars of Saint Firmin Palace more of a place to hide during the summer.

The site is made up of cellars across seven different levels and contains a chapel, storage rooms, cisterns, a bread oven, an oil mill and other subterranean mysteries.

The cellars were rediscovered by a family around sixty years ago and are now a museum - and a great place to cool off in the shade on a summer's day.

Other attractions include the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Sénanque a 12th century abbey surrounded by vivid lavender fields.

Everything you need to know about visiting France

• Brits need to have a passport with at least three months left on it.
• No visas are needed for anyone staying up to 90 days within an 180-day period but you need to make sure your passport is stamped on entry and exit.
• You may also need to show proof of accommodation and funds, around €120 a day.
• The country uses the euro with with around €10 working out to £8.55.
• France is one hour ahead of the UK
• Direct flights to France from the UK take between 1-4 hours depending on the destination
• Or you can travel by train with Eurostar, with destinations including Paris or Lille.

It's home to a community of Cistercian monks who spend their time praying and making honey, vegetables and lavender.

Part of the building is open to the public, who can get a glimpse of how the monks live. It's one of many attractions in the village to have won a TripAdvisor traveller's choice award last year.   Another unique place to visit is the Terrace Theatre - found in the middle of terraced slopes, carved into place by local farmers.

In the warm summer months, people put on theatrical and musical performances at the small theatre.

For anyone looking for a fun and typically French way to explore the town, a Citroen 2CV tour might be the best option.

The small French cars, owned by companies like Airelles , offer a unique and classic way to take in the local countryside.

Their website reads: "Set off on an adventure on board an iconic Citroen 2CV, a unique and memorable trip during which you can discover all the Luberon valley’s secrets.

"Explore the Notre-Dame de Sénaque Abbey, Bories village and all the region’s exceptional landscapes."

One TripAdvisor reviewer described the tour as "a beautiful and amazing experience".

Getting to Gordes from the UK is very simple, with flights to its nearest airport Marseille taking around two hours from London.

They can be booked from around £44 return with Ryanair .

Meanwhile, a night for two in the town will cost around £62.

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Meanwhile, this is one of the most attractive looking villages in the UK.

And this UK village has been made a Unesco heritage site .

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Science News

Explore a map of the next 15 total solar eclipses.

In case you miss this year’s solar eclipse, there are 14 more in the next 20 years

This map of eclipse paths from 2024 to 2044 reveals that Australia hit the jackpot: Over just 11 years, the continent (lower right) will see four total solar eclipses — in 2028, 2030, 2037 and 2038.

Alley Interactive, A. Buki

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By Christopher Crockett

April 4, 2024 at 12:00 pm

It’s never too soon to start thinking about the next solar eclipse.

On April 8, the moon’s shadow will sweep across North America , bringing a total solar eclipse over the homes of more than 30 million people ( SN: 1/4/24 ). But even as the shadow departs the continent in eastern Canada, the stage will be getting set for the next total eclipse. And the one after that. And the one after that.

That’s because there’s an order underpinning the mechanics that lead to any eclipse. The breathtaking celestial event is driven by the relentless, repeating rhythms of the Earth’s and moon’s motions. And that means that eclipses of all kinds — not just total solar ones — are predictable across millennia.

Thanks to that predictability, it’s possible to precisely map upcoming solar eclipses. To make this interactive map, Science News relied on NASA’s “Five millennium canon of solar eclipses”  database, a detailed accounting of every solar eclipse from 2000 B.C. to A.D. 3000.

That time span encompasses nearly 12,000 solar eclipses, roughly 3,200 of which are total eclipses. Showing them all would be a bit much. Instead, we show the tracks of the next 15 total solar eclipses, from 2024 to 2044.

In the map, the path for nearly every eclipse (differentiated by color) is marked with three lines: the northern- and southernmost edges of the band in which people will see a total eclipse and the centerline of that band. Along that line, totality lasts longer than near the edges. People in a wide swath to either side of each outer band will be able to see a partial eclipse.

Clicking on a path will offer up some details about that eclipse: The date, the time (in Universal Time ) at which the sun will be eclipsed the longest, the duration of that maximum extent and the width of the eclipse path. And typing a city, landmark or address into the map’s search bar will zoom to that spot, so you can see if any eclipses are due to visit any of your favorite haunts.

And for this year’s eclipse, clicking on any of the white flags along the path will reveal the exact time (also in Universal Time) and duration of totality at that spot.

There is one eclipse here that is a bit unusual. That one will pass through eastern Siberia on April 9, 2043 . On the map, only one line appears — the southernmost limit of totality — because the centerline doesn’t intersect with Earth’s surface. In this “noncentral eclipse,” the centerline and the whole northern half of the shadow will miss Earth entirely, cast off into the depths of space.

Hardcore eclipse fans, intent on seeing every kind imaginable, might want to plan for that one. The next noncentral total eclipse won’t happen until 2459 .

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