With no big trip planned for, reminiscing on my past trips to Europe has forced me to ask myself where is my favourite city in Europe? While I finally agreed on a list with myself, it is by no means definitive. After all Europe is a melting pot of culture, experiences, people and food – all of which must be lived and experienced firsthand.
Here are 10 of my favourite European cities:
- London
Everyone has either been here or wants to visit but it is popular for a reason! There is so much going on all the time in London that one can never be bored. It is a city with 100 personalities. If you visit in winter you can be sure to see gorgeous green parks blanketed in lashings of white snow; a sight that is worth it despite the chill. In summer it is lovely to walk around basking in the warmth and visiting all the markets while sampling delicious food.
- Barcelona
A city that has 100% stolen my heart! If there is one place I would visit again and again and again is Barcelona. For me, it is one of the most lively and exciting cities to experience. From culture, to history, food and people to the nightlife and markets, Barcelona has it all. I would happily (and want to!) live here for a couple of months to really experience all it can offer.
- Seville
Spain is quite possibly my favourite country so no surprise two of its cities makes this list. Located down south, it is much smaller than Barcelona but comes with so much charm you’ll fall in love instantly. Flamenco shows, sangria, paella and the people! – this is a place you’ll want to come back for time and time again.
- Berlin
Ahh Berlin, what is there to say except I love you! History buffs will delight as there are fewer cities that are so rich in history and culture. I could easily spend weeks just combing through all the museums and historical sites. The biggest thing I took from Berlin was the different types of people and how accepted they were. Walking down the street, you see people dressed in hundreds of different outfits and styles, various haircuts and hair colours, different nationalities and ethnicities but everyone seems to be so gelled and accepting of each other. This also happens to be another city I want to live in. Plus the food! Currywurst, bratwurst, pork knuckle there’s so much to enjoy!
- Ljubljana
A little town in Slovenia, located under Austria, is a small, charming and quant city. Much smaller than its neighbours, the attraction is the cobblestone streets, canal-side shopping and delightful traditional cuisine. Make sure to visit the castle! And the central markets which come alive in the summertime.
- Montenegro
This forgotten gem is like the smaller sister of Dubrovnik. It has similar attractions without the price tag or the crowds. Kotor bay is nestled amongst a series of mountain ranges that creates an awe-inspiring view, not to mention some incredible sunsets! The water is crystal clear, the seafood fresh and the old town is a charming maze of cobblestone streets and smiling faces. If there is one thing to do, it is to climb the fortress. Hot, sweaty and perhaps one of the best views in Europe! (better than Dubrovnik fortress by a lot)
- Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre was invested for postcards. The wide sweeping views of rock faces, white sandy beaches and gorgeous little towns tucked into the side of the cliff make this place a dream to visit. Don’t forget your walking shoes and tackle the magnificent hikes from town to town or your bikini to rest your tired feet and happy soul.
- Edinburgh
Rug up well for Edinburgh as it is cold and windy, but this charming little city is well worth it. Admire the mix of old and new, especially the old gothic architecture that is dotted around the city. There are few places which have such exquisite, intricate and old buildings you can see for free. Take a walk up the Arthurs seat for mouth-dropping views then visit a traditional Scottish pub for some Haggis and fudge; it’s really good here!
- St Petersburg
One of the ‘less-visited’ cities in Europe yet it has so much to offer! Rich in history and culture, as well as art (it rivals the Louvre in Paris for its impressive collection of art) it is an incredible place to see. The architecture is extraordinary; I have never been to a city like St Petersburg before. The way it looms over you, making you feel so small and insignificant yet it is so detailed and beautiful. Don’t expect smiles from strangers, but do expect some delish food and beautiful walks.
- Prague
Ahh rounding off this list was hard to do! But it has to be Prague. I visited way back in 2013 and haven’t been back since but it is always on my ‘to-do’ list. This small town is hustling and bustling. Wear good shoes as the cobblestones, as cute as they are, hurt your feet after a while. There is so much to do! Visit the castle, walk over the bridges and immerse yourself in the culture (and food)! It is nicknamed the ‘city of a hundred spires’ so remember to keep looking up!
There are another 10 cities I could easily rattle off that are amazing to visit as well, but in an effort to stick to just 10 – there they are!
Where is your favourite city? I’d love to know!
madeleinecurby 