By Dana Perkiss
Vibrant cities filled with unique culture, architecture, cuisine, and more all deserve a spot on your Europe vacation itinerary – but if you want to visit the most beautiful places in Europe, then check out our travel experts’ list of the best cities in Europe brimming with beauty!
Paris, France
This one feels obvious, but of course, Paris is at the top of our list of the most beautiful cities in Europe. With iconic landmarks like the enchanting Eiffel Tower and Louvre, cobblestone streets lined by cute cafés, and elegant spaces like the Luxembourg Gardens, Paris boasts an abundance of beauty and romance unlike anywhere else in the world.
Sorrento, Italy
There are so many beautiful places to visit in Italy, but Sorrento’s got to be at the top. Enjoy views of the entire Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and even the island of Capri from this spectacular city. Along with breathtaking views, Sorrento is also filled with charming waterside restaurants serving mouthwatering Italian food, open piazzas with antique shops, and its famous limoncello.
Santorini, Greece
Similar to Italy, there is an abundance of beautiful places to visit in Greece – but there’s nowhere quite like Santorini. For starters, nothing compares to watching the sunset in the town of Oia or eating delectable Greek food while enjoying views of sparkling turquoise waters. Walk around picturesque villages, indulge at boutique wineries, and experience historic culture on this small Greek island.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Colorful buildings, sparkling lakes, and unique culture combine to make Iceland one of the prettiest places in Europe to visit. The capital of Iceland offers incredible travel experiences like seeing the Northern Lights, whale-watching, exploring lava tunnels, glaciers, geothermal spas, and so much more. Reykjavik’s stunning natural beauty continuously enthralls travelers to visit and revisit, making it a consistently popular travel destination year after year.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a particularly unique city in Europe most notable for its charming canals, relaxed atmosphere, and colorful buildings. Stroll around the cobblestone streets admiring beautiful palaces and royal artifacts, then indulge in local cuisine while meeting friendly locals. Known as being one of the happiest cities in the world, you can feel that joyful energy whenever you visit Copenhagen!
Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh is as rich in history as it is in scenic beauty. Enjoy views of the astounding Edinburgh Castle throughout the city, experience real-life inspiration from Harry Potter, and stroll through charming gardens and walking paths abundant with history. Known as being one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Edinburgh is also famous for its lively culture and festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which is the largest arts and media festival in the world.
Seville, Spain
Travelers usually flock to Madrid and Barcelona, but we’re here to say that Seville is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Warm weather, sounds of flamenco, and sizzling smells of tapas fill the colorful streets of this Andalusian city. From the Real Alcázar Palace to the Plaza de España, there is sensational beauty around every corner of Seville.
São Miguel, Portugal
The Azores, an archipelago region of Portugal, is by far one of the most stunning places on Earth. São Miguel is the largest island and arguably the most beautiful, thanks to its award-winning Terra Nostra Park, majestic landscapes like Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, and ancient architecture. Visitors can bike or hike through scenic hills and cliffs, lounge on beautiful beaches, or even enjoy thrilling activities like whale-watching.
Vienna, Austria
The capital of Austria is one of the absolute most beautiful places in Central Europe. Referred to as the "City of Music" for its classical music history, Vienna is filled with as many stunning landmarks as it is music. Marvel at the city’s impressive Baroque architecture, fairytale-like palaces, and magnificent gardens.
Valletta, Malta
Perhaps one of the most underrated countries in Europe, Malta offers postcard-worthy scenes at every angle – especially in Valletta. The entire city is deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a European Art City, meaning that it’s basically an open-air museum. Wander around the golden Baroque architecture while admiring views of the bright blue Mediterranean Sea and you’ll quickly realize why Valletta is one of the most beautiful places in Europe.
Lucerne, Switzerland
Visiting Lucerne feels more like stepping into a fairytale than being in Europe. Located at the edge of Lake Lucerne surrounded by snow-tipped mountains, Lucerne is one of the most visually stunning places in the world and a very popular destination in Switzerland. The charming city is home to medieval architecture, friendly locals, and impressive landmarks like the Chapel Bridge.
Prague, Czech Republic
Referred to as “the City of a Hundred Spires,” the capital city of the Czech Republic is a Bohemian heaven with innumerable scenic features. Stroll around its UNESCO World Heritage city Centre, marvel at architectural masterpieces including Prague Castle and the Astronomical Clock, and walk in the footsteps of musical legends like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. A wonderful blend of old-world and modern innovation, Prague is a fascinating city worthy of anyone’s Europe travel bucket list.
