It would take a lifetime to visit all the amazing places that Europe has to offer. But if you're limited to a few days here are the 10 best tourist spots.
French foodies flock to Lyon, a city that also has a great art scene and is relatively inexpensive. History buffs will enjoy the opulence of Florence's Medici palace or the 12th century cathedral of Rome.
1. Paris
Europe’s capital of intellectualism, fashion, and world-class cuisine is a must-visit. Its 19th-century cityscape is crisscrossed with wide boulevards and the Seine River. The Eiffel Tower and 12th-century, Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral are major attractions.
Parisians love the 12th-century Notre Dame Cathedral as much for its soaring rose windows as its esoteric mysteries. Then there’s the Mona Lisa, best enjoyed in the evening when fewer people crowd its rooms.
The Louvre, the world’s largest art museum, is also worth visiting. Its stately corridors house Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
2. Brussels
The European continent is teeming with history, culture and vivid cities that are known for their restaurants, sights, museums, architecture, nightlife and more. Istanbul, for instance, is one of the most popular tourist destinations as it's a place where East meets West with gorgeous old and state-of-the-art structures.
Brussels is a melting pot of Dutch, French and English with its Art Nouveau architecture. For a taste of the local culture, make sure to try the city's prix-fixe menu or "plat du jour."
3. Bruges
Bruges’ cobbled streets and canals give it a picturesque medieval feel. The city center’s Markt square has many buildings of note including the 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall) and its ornate carved ceiling.
Also worth seeing is the tiny Basilica of the Holy Blood, which houses a relic (the cloth soaked in Christ’s blood) and treasury. Unlike most of Bruges’ churches, entrance to the basilica is free.
A hop-on/hop-off canal tour is the quickest and easiest way to see Bruges’ picturesque canals and windmills. You’ll find several operators at jetties around town.
4. Madrid
Madrid is a city full of sights, sounds and experiences. From iconic plazas like the Plaza Mayor, which dates back to 1620, to incredible historic monuments and museums, there’s something for everyone.
The Prado Museum is a must-see, featuring masterpieces of art from world-renowned artists such as Goya, Velazquez and El Greco. You can also visit the home of Spanish painter Joaquin Sorolla and admire his perfectly conserved paintings of impressionist and Luminism scenes, outdoor landscapes, and a few pieces showcasing social issues.
For a little bit of fun, add the Museum of Illusions to your itinerary. Test your limits with mind-bending experiences like stepping into a funky rotated room or anti-gravity tunnel!
5. Budapest
Steeped in history and blessed with mineral-rich thermal waters, Hungary’s capital is a feast for the senses. From sparkling art nouveau architecture to quirky ruin bars, the city’s diverse neighborhoods keep visitors coming back for more.
Budapest’s architectural ensemble reflects two periods of significant historical development and the harmonious interaction between human society and varied morphological features. A good example of this is the ornate Parliament Building, modeled on London’s Houses of Parliament. Its historic inner city districts and public buildings also are high-quality examples of urban planning solutions reflecting tendencies of the second half of the 19th century.
6. Lisbon
Once the centre of a vast Portuguese empire, Lisbon is today one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Its enticing mix of cultural, historical and natural highlights make it a perfect city break destination.
Budapest has a similar feel to Paris but with more grit thanks to its communist past. It’s also a cheap destination to visit and boasts some of the best nightlife in Europe.
The city’s sweet pastry is a must-try, called pasteis de nata. They are available everywhere in the city and can be eaten as breakfast, afternoon snacks or with a glass of ginjinha for a refreshing drink.
7. Tallinn
Tallinn’s Old Town is a complete, well-preserved example of a medieval northern European trading city. It developed as a crucible of international secular-ecclesiastical culture in the 13th and 16th centuries.
Its impressive church spires give the upper town its expressive skyline. The lower town, crowned by Toompea Castle, was once home to merchant traders from Denmark and Sweden.
Many visit this fairytale city as a day trip but staying overnight is the way to go! You’ll get a more authentic experience. And, you can see the awesome Jagala Waterfall, which looks really cool when it’s frozen!
8. Vienna
Vienna is a city of music and home to famous composers like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven. It also has an amazing collection of architecture and art.
The many-towered and battlement-covered fantasy castle of King Ludwig II of Bavaria is a popular attraction. You can take a guided tour of the sumptuous interior including the Throne Room and the Singers’ Hall.
Saxon Switzerland National Park is known for its unique sandstone formations and mountainous landscape. The region is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hiking.
9. Prague
The Czech Republic is a haven for castle lovers. You can stroll inside restored chateaus or hike up forested trails to explore ruins.
The 13th-century mining city of Kutna Hora looks straight out of a fairytale. It’s home to the five-naved cathedral, St Barbara’s Church, the former Italian Court, and the famous bone church -- Sedlec Ossuary.
A true cultural destination, Prague is overflowing with art galleries and museums. Kafka lovers can visit his house, and theater lovers will find plenty to entertain them here. A stay in this historic city is essential.
10. Amsterdam
International tourism has increased in recent years and Europe is a magnet for travelers. It is home to some of the best cities on earth featuring historical attractions and natural landscapes that amaze visitors.
In Amsterdam, rub shoulders with EU politicians at the European Quarter and admire modern architecture that hypnotizes locals and tourists alike. Tour the charming canals lined with tall, narrow buildings and visit the Anne Frank House. Don't miss the UNESCO-recognized Grand Place with imposing guildhalls and a magnificent church dedicated to Saint Michael and Saint Gudula.
