As you know, I have been traveling around the world for many years, and most of all I like Europe. I visited the capitals of all the countries of the Old World, and I also visited small towns in large quantities. And I came up with the idea of making a rating of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but if I relied only on my opinion, the rating would become biased, because... Every person has their own favorite cities. Therefore, at VK.com I created a survey among experienced independent travelers, which was designed to form an objective rating based on several hundred votes. Now I present to you this rating.
The most beautiful cities in Europe
No. 1. Rome
No. 2. Paris
City of romantics. On every corner in this city you can find couples kissing, and the smell of flowers can be smelled everywhere. Everyone will find entertainment here, because there is simply a myriad of them - from sightseeing to week-long trips to fashion boutiques. Well, the main attraction of Paris - the Eiffel Tower - attracts millions of travelers from all over the world.
No. 3. Venice
The famous city on the water. Canals replace roads, and only in some places there are the usual asphalt squares and pedestrian paths. There are many things that make a holiday here varied and interesting, and gondoliers (local taxi drivers) can show anyone around most Venice from your gondola, sailing along its many waterways.
No. 4. Florence
One of the most “cultural” cities in Europe. The works of great European artists and sculptors are presented here, so connoisseurs of high art can stay here for weeks. But the city is famous not only for art, but also for its beauty, which served as its standard among populated areas in the Middle Ages.
No. 5. Istanbul
The largest city in Turkey, former Constantinople is the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. This place is notable for the fact that Europe and Asia connect here. Modern technologies intertwined with ancient traditions, skyscrapers coexist with ancient landmarks.
No. 6. London
The capital of Great Britain. Modern, high-tech and beautiful, it attracts travelers from both mainland Europe and North America. Here you can do whatever you want: go to opera houses, shop in fashion boutiques, explore the city from double-decker buses, or just drink a cup of English tea.
No. 7. Prague
Beautiful architecture is what sets this city apart from all the others. The cultural heritage here is simply enormous. Although the Czech Republic is landlocked, you can spend whole days enjoying Prague itself, its interesting streets, and atmosphere of calm and relaxation. The site has excellent material about, I recommend that you now follow the link and read it. You will learn a lot of important and interesting things about Prague, and most importantly, why you should choose this city for your next trip.
No. 8. Vein
One of best cities Europe. German pragmatism and Eastern European relaxation are combined here. Numerous luxurious palaces make this city very attractive to tourists.
No. 9. Edinburgh
Capital of Scotland. One of the most unusual places in Europe. It is here that the Edinburgh Festival, the largest in terms of participation in the world, is held at the end of summer.
No. 10. Bruges
A town in Belgium with a population of just over 100 thousand people. Having visited this city, you might think that you are in a fairy tale: numerous swans calmly swim along the canals, the houses are unusual and attractive, similar to gingerbread houses, and the castle is the center of the city. A very interesting place.
Europe is a part of the world, literally every meter of which is imbued with centuries-old history and has its own unique atmosphere. Any traveler would like to visit European cities at least once, be inspired by their beauty, feel their elusive magic, special lifestyle, walk along famous streets, visit attractions whose history is so interesting and multifaceted that it has long been overgrown with legends. We present to your attention the most beautiful cities in Europe - a summary rating that will introduce the reader to the most vibrant, unique and historically valuable corners of the continent.
1. Paris. France
Panorama of Paris with the Eiffel Tower at sunsetThe dream city, the most romantic city in the world - almost everyone recognizes Paris in these words. About 50 million tourists come to the elegant, luxurious, most visited city on earth every year! It is not surprising, because the more than 2000-year history of the French capital is so priceless that you can study it endlessly by visiting memorable places. River cruise on the Seine, picnic on the green lawn Eiffel Tower, admiring the stunning Gothic architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral is just a small grain of those goals that are definitely worth realizing when you find yourself in Paris.
2. Rome Italy
View from the dome of the cathedral to St. Peter's Square and the obelisk from the Circus of Nero in Rome The eternal city-symbol, the city-primary source - the birthplace of Western civilization. It was here, on the banks of the Tiber River, that the powerful Roman Empire unfolded, which later played a vital role in the history of all European states. It’s worth starting your acquaintance with the city by visiting the most valuable, key attractions that have become the hallmark of Rome: such as the legendary ancient Roman arena of the Colosseum, the main bastion catholic church Vatican, state heart Ancient Rome- The Roman Forum, the ancient baths of Caracalla, numerous squares and magnificent baroque architecture.
3. Prague. Czech
Scenic view of bridges on the Vltava river and the old town with red roofs and colorful walls Fairy-tale, mystical, enchanting - such epithets are attached to the magical Czech capital. The spirit of Prague is captivating, and many tourists, choosing the most beautiful cities in Europe, return to their favorite cobbled streets: admiring the impressive Gothic architecture, magnificent Baroque facades and red tiled roofs that have become a recognizable symbol of the city. River travel along the Vltava, a walk along the Charles Bridge, getting to know the magical atmosphere of Gothic castles and, of course, the opportunity to enjoy hearty Czech cuisine are not all the opportunities available to guests of Prague.
4. Barcelona. Spain
The main entrance to Park Guell with two fantastic-shaped houses - pavilions The football center of the world, the capital of Catalonia and at the same time the most charming city in Spain - of course, all this is Barcelona. Founded back in the 3rd century BC, the city had a difficult history, around it there was a struggle for power between the Romans, Moors and Visigoths, and later it passed to the descendants of the Frankish kings. The immortal creations of Antoni Gaudi's architecture, the mesmerizing Gothic facades of temples and the entire Gothic quarter, the iconic Camp Nou football stadium, as well as a number of vibrant national festivals reveal the essence of the city and its culture.
5. St. Petersburg. Russia
The central part of the southern facade of the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg As for Russia, the main tourist center of the country has always been and remains the royal St. Petersburg. Mesmerizing landscapes of the Neva embankment, symbolic drawbridges, dozens of museums with valuable historical and artistic exhibitions, elegant palace and park complexes with magnificent fountains - all this, in the rhythm of dance, carries the visitor into the atmosphere of a medieval ball. The grandiose palace ensemble of Peterhof, the Hermitage, the Kunstkamera, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Vasilyevsky Island - all these and other memorable places seem to re-open the pages of the brilliant history of the Russian Empire.
6. Helsinki. Finland
Helsinki Cathedral, towering over the surrounding cityscape Although the Finnish capital cannot boast of a particularly outstanding historical and cultural heritage or an abundance of pompous architecture, this city has its own unique charm. Helsinki is very atmospheric, with a discreet northern nature, which Finns really value, so there are many recreational parks, as well as a fragrant botanical garden. Strict embankments dressed in granite, the majestic Cathedral and Senate square, the Sveaborg fortress on the islands, the original Temppeliaukio temple, the harsh bulk of the Kallio church, a whole series of museums - this is not all that this northern city is valued for.
7. Reykjavik. Iceland
Beautiful view of Reykjavik city center from Hallgrimskirkja tower The ranking of the most beautiful cities in Europe continues with the handsome Icelandic capital, which is called the “tourist gate” of the northern country. Despite the fact that Reykjavik is the most Big city on the island, you can walk around it literally in one day. The mysterious “smoking bay,” as the name of this city sounds in translation, is the hallmark of the small island of Iceland. There is no ancient pompous architecture here, but there is a number of modern attractions: the creative building of the Harpa concert hall, the Perlan boiler house with thermal water, the Lutheran church Hallgrimskirkja, a number of museums and exhibitions.
8. Dubrovnik. Croatia
Romantic old town of Dubrovnik at night The pearl of the Adriatic, the city of Dubrovnik, is interesting to travelers both from a historical point of view and for a resort holiday. Locals jokingly say that in order to see and experience the whole of Croatia, it is enough to go to Dubrovnik. And in fact, everything that the Balkan state can be proud of is concentrated here - the cleanest sea, magnificent beaches, ancient architecture, as well as big variety local cuisine. The historical buildings of the city include the Minceta, Bokar, St. Ivan towers, the Pile Gate, the Sponza Palace, the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, and the Rector's Palace.
9. Budapest. Hungary
Aerial panoramic view of the Royal Palace and the Chain Bridge over the Danube The Hungarian capital has existed since the times of the Roman Empire, demonstrating a high level of development in recent decades. And sometime in the first century AD. it was the administrative center of Aquincum, which was later renamed Obuda. Later it merged with the neighboring settlement of Pest, and in the Middle Ages Budapest became one of the glorious European capitals. Since then, the city has retained the grandeur of the imperial city, and today you can visit a lot of historical places: for example, the neo-Gothic Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, St. Stephen's Basilica, the Opera House, the Museum of Fine Arts.
10. Innsbruck. Austria
Innsbruck at night after the first snowfall The ancient Austrian city of Innsbruck is located in a ring of majestic mountain ranges, which is why it is famous as a high-class ski resort. However, Innsbruck can offer its guests much more than just opportunities for active winter recreation. After all, the heritage of the Middle Ages, European sophistication and modern civilization. Among the top places to visit are the Hofburg Imperial Palace, Ambras Castle, the luxurious Baroque Helblinghaus, a number of museums and temples, and the magnificent Hofgarten park.
11. Florence. Italy
Cityscape of Florence on the Arno River The world center of culture and art, the embodiment of the spirit of the Renaissance, the city of great creators and the real pride of Italy - all this is Florence, the administrative center of the historical region of Tuscany. It is impossible to remain indifferent to the picturesque views of the Apennine Mountains that surround the city from the north and east, and of course, to its magnificent and countless attractions. The architecture of the city is a magnificent example of Italian Gothic, and numerous museums exhibit collections of works by famous Florentine masters - Michelangelo, Dante, Boccacio, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci.
12. Copenhagen. Denmark
Copenhagen and the canals from above on a beautiful summer day The capital of the world's oldest monarchy is located on islands in the Oresun Strait, which connects the Baltic and north sea. Copenhagen is the birthplace of the great storyteller Hans Christian Andersen, cultural festivals, vibrant carnivals, ancient castles and rich museums. The ancient harbor of Nyhavn with colorful facades preserves the spirit of antiquity, Strøget Street demonstrates an extraordinary contrast of ancient architecture and ultra-modern buildings, the magnificent Rosenborg Castle is the site of the exhibition of the treasures of the Danish crown, the Royal and Opera Houses will introduce you to the rich cultural life cities.
13. Seville. Spain
Semicircular Plaza de España with a large fountain and canal surrounded by buildings The top of the most beautiful cities in Europe is complemented by Seville - the center of the authentic Spanish province of Andalusia, home of vibrant festivals, fiery flamenco dance and bullfighting. Origins rich history cities date back to the distant third millennium BC. The squares of Seville inspire with their baroque façades. In the Santa Cruz quarter, immersed in Mediterranean vegetation, the spirit of the Middle Ages still does not cease. The grandiose Cathedral impresses with its size and gloomy Gothic style. The House of Pilate allows you to remember the Gospel stories, and bull competitions are still held in the Maestrans bullring to this day.
14. Dresden. Germany
Historical center of the old town of Dresden On the banks of the Elbe, not far from the Czech border, is the German city of Dresden. From a tourist point of view, it is one of the most attractive cities in Germany, with its calm and harmonious atmosphere. Many cultural treasures were skillfully restored after the military events of World War II, others were carefully preserved, having been taken outside the city. The historical part of the city is a real storehouse of cultural treasures: numerous palaces, museums, galleries, cathedrals are concentrated in a small square in the heart of Dresden, demonstrating oldest history ancient Saxony.
15. Vienna. Austria
The main tree of Austria and the Christmas market on the square in front of the Vienna City Hall Another treasure in the galaxy of European beauties is the ancient Austrian city of Vienna. Vienna experienced its greatest prosperity during the reign of the Habsburg dynasty, which collected the greatest examples of art in their capital, which is why today you can find so many museums storing rich cultural heritage countries. The magnificent palace complexes are impressive with their baroque facades, the Karlskirche church is stunning with an amazing fusion of baroque, rococo and Byzantine styles, and from the Danube Tower you can view surrounding panoramas within a radius of up to 80 kilometers.
16. Cesky Krumlov. Czech
Ancient houses with red tiled roofs in the historical center of Cesky Krumlov Another wonderful Czech city of Cesky Krumlov is located in the south of the country, close to the borders with Austria. It is worth emphasizing the originality and comfort of this small town - here you are especially drawn to stroll along the narrow streets, inspiring with their grace and carefully preserved antiquity. All memorial buildings are concentrated in a small area, between the picturesque bends of the Vltava. This tiny island of the Middle Ages has collected several architectural examples of Czech Gothic, the 8-century Krumlov Castle, the Egon Schiele Museum, the Church of St. Vitus and the regional museum.
17. Istanbul. Türkiye
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul - a world famous monument of Byzantine architecture A city on two continents, which became a meeting place of two completely diverse cultures - Asian and European, has preserved the most valuable historical heritage. Istanbul seems to combine the incompatible: it is here that two continents connect, and it is here that the border of two seas passes - the Black and Marmara. At the same time, the European and Asian parts of the city are separated by the Bosphorus Strait, through which bridges are laid, so symbolically connecting these two parts together. The main decorations of the city are its beautiful mosques, such as Blue Mosque and Sulaymaniye, palace and park complexes and magnificent bridges.
18. Bern. Switzerland
Aerial view of the old town of Bern with the Aare river flowing through the city on a sunny day Switzerland is unusual in that it does not officially have a capital, but behind the scenes this role is assigned to the town of Bern, nestled around the picturesque bends of the Aare River. The most attractive historical part of Bern is located in a hilly river bend - the first settlements of the old city were formed here in the 12th century. Most of the architectural attractions are concentrated here. The panorama of Bern is stunning in its beauty - red tiled roofs are surrounded by lush greenery, and the central street is replete with attractive restaurants and ancient fountains.
19. Brussels. Belgium
Statue of King Albert I in the garden of Mont des Arts in Brussels on a beautiful summer day The Belgian capital is an example of an amazing combination of Dutch practicality and French elegance. In the jungle of city blocks there was a place for architectural monuments different styles and eras: cold Gothic, lush Baroque, elegant Art Nouveau and laconic modernity. The first thing that comes to mind when mentioning Brussels is the famous Belgian chocolate, but a closer acquaintance with the city reveals its depth and cultural richness: among the iconic monuments are the Grand Place, the Town Hall building, a lot of palaces and Gothic temples.
20. Venice. Italy
Aerial landscape of Venice with the Church of Santa Maria della Salute on the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro area The 20 most beautiful cities in Europe are completed by the sophisticated, romantic, graceful Venice, a city of hundreds of canals and bridges, where dark and damp neighborhoods are hidden behind the magnificent facades of cathedrals and palaces, and contrary to the tendency for the city to gradually sink under water, deft gondoliers continue to ride curious tourists along the narrow the convolutions of the canals. And as before, for tens and hundreds of years to come, the main squares of the city, Gothic cathedrals and Venetian palaces will be crowded with people who want to touch the legendary history of the Italian city on the water.
What are the most beautiful cities in Europe? Of course, there is no definite answer to this question - everyone expects something different from traveling through cities: some are attracted by the beauty of landscapes, others expect the revelation of historical secrets, and still others are attracted by the authenticity of ancient streets. A selection of the most beautiful cities in Europe allows you to find something close to you among this diversity - cities, a trip to which will leave a bright and memorable mark on your life.
If there is a calm and cozy corner on earth that seems to have stepped out of the pages of old fairy tales, then this is definitely Colmar. The city is so colorful and picturesque that your eyes just run wild, your soul cannot get enough of it, and you certainly won’t want to leave - it’s so nice and cozy here.
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Colmar is one of the most romantic places in Alsace, where people come to admire the architecture, taste delicious French delicacies, wash it all down with local rich wines and just have a great break from the gray everyday life and the working hustle and bustle of big cities. The best time to come to Colmar is, of course, in the spring, when the colors of city houses mix with the blooms of nature.
When in Colmar, you should definitely stop by the village of Eguisheim. Why? Yes because in 2013 (and nothing has changed since then) it was recognized as the most beautiful village! The village is quite small, just a couple of streets, but it’s a very beautiful place. Having been here, even the most active and secular ones will want to “break away from the bustle of the world” for at least a couple of days.
A direct train leaves from Strasbourg several times a day and goes to Colmar for half an hour, and the journey from there by car takes about 1.5 hours.
Manarola
Manarola is an amazing old town in. It was founded many centuries ago on a rock off the coast of the Ligurian Sea and has not lost its charm since then. Moreover, it is surrounded by picturesque gardens and vineyards. Truly a heavenly place!
Manarola is a great option for a weekend, as the town is small and there is not much entertainment. The beaches here are very small, so spending the whole day by the sea is not the best best idea. But diving is definitely worth it, since Manarola is considered one of the best places for this entertainment.
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Like all Italian cities, Manarola is famous for its unsurpassed cuisine. And since the city is seaside, in addition to traditional pizzas and pastas, you will be offered delicious fish dishes. And just imagine: evening, view of the city, fish delicacy, delicious Italian wine...
The journey from Pisa to Manarola takes 1.5 hours by car.
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Narrow streets, picturesque houses, cute geraniums on the windows, ancient signs on the houses of craftsmen, the Town Hall, cathedrals and... a year-round Christmas market. Yes, yes, Christmas can be found in Rothenburg either in the summer or in the spring, and all because there is a special Christmas museum, where you can find yourself in a fairy tale all year round. And at night you don’t have to worry - the city guard goes around all the streets of the city in the evening and checks that everything is in order. In general, the atmosphere of medieval legends has been preserved 100%.
The most convenient way to get to Rothenburg is from - it takes about 3 hours by train.
Valletta
Another city that you can’t get enough of and that is not yet teeming with tourists is the Maltese capital. A city with an amazing history and beautiful architecture: dozens of churches and cathedrals, ancient castles and palaces, chapels... In general, there is where to stroll and what to see.
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The central streets of the city are narrow, so be prepared to walk a lot, and if you get tired, you can ride a yacht or boat around the bay. If you want to enjoy art, then go to the Royal Opera House or the National Museum of Fine Arts - a pleasant and educational pastime is guaranteed.
It is better to come to Valletta in spring or autumn, as summer on the island is very hot. And yes, have time to visit the city before 2018, because this year Valletta will become the cultural capital of Europe. And after that it will definitely not be as free and fussy as it is now.
Mostar
Despite all tragic events, which unfolded on the territory of Bosnia about 20 years ago, today, walking through the ancient cities of the country, you will not find a trace of them. And all because the local residents tried to return their land to its original beauty and charm, and they succeeded very well.
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A clear confirmation of this is Mostar, an ancient, colorful town, surrounded on all sides by mountains. It is divided in half by the Neretva River, making the views from any bank simply incredible. It’s scary to even think that back in the 90s this city was practically wiped off the face of the earth, and today, having been reborn like a phoenix, it again captivates everyone with its beauty.
Since Bosnia is not yet a popular holiday destination among tourists, the prices here will pleasantly please every traveler, especially the budget traveler. And the cafes and restaurants here delight you with large and satisfying portions at very reasonable prices.
Mostar is about 2 hours by car both from and from (;)
Innsbruck
Yes, you can’t call it a little-known city among tourists, because it is a ski resort famous throughout Europe. But everything changes with the arrival of summer, when the city lives a quiet and measured life. Traveling to Innsbruck in summer will be no less interesting than in winter time, because the incredible nature of the Alps makes you fall in love from the first meeting. And in order for it to pass “on top level", head to the Alpine Botanical Garden - there is a lot to see!
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Innsbruck is truly a city of contrasts. Ultra-modern business centers and shopping complexes are being quietly built here next to ancient houses. The types of recreation here are also completely different: some will like luxurious spa complexes with thermal springs, while others choose swimming in alpine lakes, fishing and cycling.
But ladies will especially like Innsbruck, since the Swarovski Museum is located here - yes, that very “brilliant” brand.
Pučičsa
Pucisca is a picturesque village on one of the islands, Brača. Like all cities in Croatia, Pucisca is famous for its picturesque nature, wonderful mountain landscapes and ancient architecture. The village is also famous for its magnificent bay with crystal clear water, in which swimming is a pleasure.
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Everyone who comes here to relax is full of compliments on the local cuisine and wine, and gourmets claim that this is where the most aromatic olive oil is made.
Pucisca is an ideal and affordable option for summer holiday by the sea. First of all, because here you won’t have to compete for a place near the water, and in the sea no one will bother you to swim calmly, since there is such an influx of tourists as in popular European sea resorts, not here.
An excellent souvenir from Pucisca would be products from white stone, because the area is famous all over the world for works made from this material, and the houses on the island are predominantly white stone.
The island of Brac can be reached by ferry from Split, the ferry runs several times a day, the journey takes one hour.
Annecy
Little French Venice - this is exactly what you can call the picturesque town of Annecy, located on the shores of the lake of the same name. Canals, boats, narrow cobbled alleys, dozens of bridges, Italian wells, ancient houses, cathedrals, castles and many, many flowers. Just admire and admire all this beauty.
When coming to Annecy, you should definitely stop by the Palace on the Island, walk along Rue Sainte-Clair, stroll (and maybe kiss) along the Lovers' Bridge and enjoy the local desserts and ice cream.
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Would you like to visit the most beautiful cities in Europe?
But to visit them, you first need to get to know them a little. We present to your attention a selection of the 10 most beautiful cities in Europe that everyone would love to visit at least once in their life!
Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe:
Paris. France
“Being Parisian does not mean being born in Paris. This means being born again there."
Sacha Guitry (French writer)
Prague. Czech
Saint Petersburg. Russia
Petersburg- city of white nights. Not many European capitals and simply beautiful cities can boast of this. Over its relatively short 310-year history, the city has grown to impressive sizes and nurtured countless numbers of historical monuments architecture and more.
Saint Petersburg- our northern capital. The calling card of the city is its drawbridges, attracting tourists from all over the world!
Foggy city on Neve as if it is intended to combine two opposite sides of urban formats: the modern fast pace of life, the never-ending hum of wide avenues with the comfort and miniature streets of past centuries, framed by old houses and parks.
Walking through the streets and squares St. Petersburg every now and then they float out before your eyes, as if out of the fog, architectural monuments indescribable beauty: Winter Palace, with the current state museum Hermitage, Alexandria pillar, Saint Isaac's Cathedral , Admiralty, Peter-Pavel's Fortress...Yes, truly, it is too much to list the beauties St. Petersburg it can take a very long time.
Helsinki. Finland
Budapest. Hungary
One of the most beautiful cities not only Europe, but also Mira. It stands on the second longest European river - Danube and is called pearl of the Danube.
The most picturesque panorama of the city overlooking Danube And Houses of Parliament - symbol Budapest , listed UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On the map Budapest appeared relatively recently, in 1873, with the merger of three neighboring towns Buda, Obuda And Pest. But the place itself is ancient; people settled there 2 thousand years ago.
Modern city abounds museums, exhibitions, art galleries and many historical And architectural monuments.
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