The world is home to countless unusual and stunning places—cities and villages that everyone dreams of visiting. In the following post, we introduce Europe's 10 most beautiful cities you absolutely must see.
1. Bruges
A city in Belgium, the capital of West Flanders province, located in the northwest of the country. A captivating medieval town where nothing has changed in centuries. Gorgeous houses, Gothic churches, bell towers, bridges and canals wrapped in greenery will enchant you. The historic center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bruges by night is a completely different city. Under the magical glow of lamplight, the narrow cobbled streets and the reflections in the canals create a romantic atmosphere and fill you with joy. The only thing that disturbs the serenity is the tourists.
2. Barcelona
Barcelona—the capital of Catalonia, the second-largest city in Spain, and the Mediterranean’s biggest metropolis. Thanks to its immense architectural legacy, Barcelona is considered one of the most important cultural hubs. We must mention the “Sagrada Família”—the city’s #1 landmark. This globally renowned basilica is Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece. Construction began in 1882 and still isn’t finished, but it’s already a UNESCO World Heritage site.
3. Venice
The city of bridges, canals, masks, and love—Venice earned the title of the world’s most beautiful city centuries ago and still holds that status. As a center for music, contemporary art, and lavish carnivals, the “City on Water” is just as impressive today as it was centuries ago. Cars are replaced by boats and gondolas—there is no other means of transport. Venice is the only city in the world built on 118 islands.
4. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
A charming small town in Germany, located between Munich and Frankfurt. It’s famous for its medieval architecture and its 14th-century city walls. Among its tourist attractions is a guild hall built in 1270, now a museum with 11 rooms. Walt Disney used the town’s picturesque scenery as inspiration for the setting in “Pinocchio.”
5. Rome
The Eternal City—Rome is one of the planet’s most beautiful cities. Mighty Rome preserves the history and symbols of European civilization: the Colosseum, the ancient Roman amphitheater, and the city’s most legendary archaeological relics. A city filled with romance, attracting countless couples.
6. Paris
The world’s most romantic city and a favorite among tourists. Elegant and opulent, famed for its cuisine and fashion, Paris stands out even among Europe’s grandest cities with its lifestyle. Bridges, grand boulevards, monumental squares, and charming streets—everything here proves it truly is the most elegant and refined city, inspired to be the world’s capital.
7. Vienna
The capital of Austria, Vienna is not only one of Europe’s, but the world’s oldest cities. Here marched Roman legions and barbarian tribes, later replaced by knights. At one time, Mongol hordes were halted at its gates, and it was where the Ottomans were defeated.
Today, Vienna is the city of waltz, art, galleries, museums, and exquisite parks. In short, Vienna rightfully holds the title of one of the world’s most beautiful and fascinating cities.
8. Bern
Berni is located in the heart of Switzerland. A major economic and cultural center. The city is known for its numerous arches and fountains, most of which date from the 16th century. There are over 100 fountains. The main landmark is the 12th-century clock tower, which once served as the western gate. The eastern façade is adorned with a 16th-century clock that shows not only the time, but also the day of the week, month, zodiac sign, and moon phase. On the hour, a rooster crows and figures of bears and mythical creatures appear.
This city is also known as the most blossoming city. In spring, flower markets and festivals take place. Bern is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. Florence
Florence is the capital of Tuscany and the region’s most densely populated city. In the Middle Ages, it was considered a trade hub, earning it the nickname “the Athens of its time.” The city is filled with fascinating buildings, with the historic center—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982—being the most significant.
Florence is particularly renowned for its architecture and art: sculptures, museums, and galleries. It’s also one of the fashion capitals of the world. The city’s main church, the Duomo, was built over more than a century (1296–1436) and is also a UNESCO site.
10. Dubrovnik
This city, located at the southern tip of Croatia, was built in the Middle Ages and originally served as a hub for maritime trade. One of the main attractions is the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Only pedestrian traffic is allowed within the old walls. Dubrovnik is regarded as one of the safest and most desirable tourist cities in the world.
