If you’re hungry for new experiences, chances are you’re considering a trip to Europe. But where to start planning your trip to Europe when there are so many destinations to choose from? Don’t worry, we have your back. So, take a moment to breathe and browse our list of the best European destinations to plan the amazing European adventure that will give you travel memories for a lifetime!
1. Vienna
The Austrian capital is characterized by gorgeous baroque architecture, imperial traditions, and authentic coffeehouse culture. Sigmund Freud, Mozart, Beethoven, and other famous intellectuals and composers resided in Vienna, shaping Vienna’s musical and artistic legacy.
The historic center of Vienna lies around Ringstraße, a circular boulevard lined with some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Imperial Palace, the Natural History Museum, the Austrian Parliament Building, and the Rathaus. Seeing the city on foot is a leisurely experience that any first-time traveler should take. Wien is also home to the Schönbrunn Palace, a magnificent Baroque complex that was once the summer residence of the imperial family. Café Griensteidl is the perfect place for those looking to experience the authentic Viennese Coffee House culture.
Lastly, Austria’s capital city is called the ‘City of Music’ for a reason. Vienna boasts many concert halls, hosting opera and jazz performances alongside music festivals. Make sure to see an opera or the Musikverein if you’re in the area.
2. Brussels
A beery traveler’s dream, Brussels is a city rich in history, lush with scenery, and home to a wide range of breweries. It is possible to reach Amsterdam and Paris in under two hours, while Bruges, Liege, and Namur in Belgium are less than 90 minutes away from Brussels.
Brussels is a relatively small city compared to its sister cities, so cycling and walking are excellent ways to get around town. Leave your skinny jeans at home when you head to Brussels since this city has plenty of gastronomic offerings. Enjoy a day biking through friteries and Belgium’s chocolate shops and snacking at miscellaneous choco bars. In the evening, enjoy Belgian Trappist beers made by monks in Brussels. Although Brussels has a lot of delicious food, the waffle reigns supreme.
3. Prague
In Central Europe, Prague stands out as one of the most charming cities. It is called the Golden Prague, or Zlata Praha. Eighteen bridges make up the beautiful river Vltava which flows through Prague, overlooking the majestic Prague Castle. One of the most famous bridges is the Charles Bridge – it’s an absolute must-cross if you’re in the city. Enjoy a spectacular view of Prague Castle either early in the morning or at sunset if you come here during these quiet times.
Visitors from all over the world come to discover this fairy-tale-like metropolis all year round with its maze of narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings built more than a millennium ago. Witness an iconic landmark of the city – an astronomical clock on one of the oldest squares in the world, Old Town Square, where visitors rub shoulders to see the apostles appear hourly.
The town’s quiet back streets are full of pubs and restaurants where you can find hearty meals like roasted pork or gúláš served with plenty of gravy, bread dumplings, and sauerkraut. For people with a sweet tooth, trdelník is a pastry tube empty inside or filled with whipped cream, covered in chocolate, sugar, and nut mix, usually served with strawberry or other berries.
Although Prague has an extensive public transport system, walking is a convenient way to see the city. Wear comfortable shoes and take a stroll through the narrow streets. You can also take the train anywhere you like in the city if you don’t like walking or cycling, and get to any European destination in just several hours! A comfortable journey with CzechRails will give you a relaxing and joyful trip through the European beauties!
Have you had enough of exploring Prague’s historic sites? You can’t visit Prague without trying some of the best beer in the world, which is traditionally brewed there. 99% of Prague bars offer craft and highly qualified beer, with authentic snacks: deer meat, fresh berries, dried fruits, fresh bread, and homemade cheeses. There is no doubt that Prague’s captivating and lovable city dominates the list of top European cities to visit and will keep you coming back for more.
4. Paris
It takes no introduction to know that Paris is home to the Eiffel Tower, one of the most recognizable sights in the world. In addition to its most famous landmarks, such as the Louvre, Versailles, and Champs-Elysees, Paris is a wonderful destination for your European adventure. It’s not the big attractions that make Paris so popular, however impressive they are, but instead, it’s trying the local boulangerie’s baguette and croissant, exploring the streets, and dining at cozy little cafés. The possibilities for discovering Paris are endless. Though Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it is also quite easy to escape the crowds and enjoy the city on its own.
5. Berlin
Berlin is the only place in the world that can offer art spaces in old abandoned churches, riding a bicycle along an airport runway, or clubbing in a power plant. As a result, Germany’s capital has quickly established itself as the cultural capital of the continent. Abandoned buildings were converted into creative spaces by squatters, parks were created, and businesses began sprouting up all over.
There you have the perfect mix of low living costs and a significant amount of history to make it the best city in Europe. The whole Berlin scene has grown over the years thanks to many international creatives moving here. Visiting Berlin is like seeing a different world. You can have a beer or a Club Mate in the park and be left alone with no one bothering you in this city. There is no need to put on a mask in Berlin. Just feel free to be yourself there!
In conclusion, it is worth saying that Europe is limitless in its list of attractions, entertainment and a variety of recreation. In addition to the above cities, you should also pay attention to less popular destinations, and unexpectedly discover stunning views of hidden European gems. Incredible adventures are waiting for you! Have a great journey!
