Travelling around Europe can be an invigorating experience, and there are plenty of great cities all around to explore. From the ancient, cobblestoned streets of Paris to the vibrant nightlife of London, Europe has something for everyone.
There are thousands of cities, towns, and villages for tourists to explore, but some are naturally more popular than others. In this article, we’ll take a look at the 10 most visited cities in Europe and explore what makes them so special. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for Europe’s most visited cities.
1. Paris, France
One of the most visited cities in Europe is undoubtedly Paris, the capital city of France. With its iconic Eiffel Tower and its charming cobblestoned streets, Paris is a must-visit for any European vacation. There is so much to see and do in this romantic city; visitors can marvel at architecture such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, explore the Louvre Museum’s world-famous paintings and sculptures, or enjoy a stroll along the banks of the Seine River. Don’t forget the delicious French pastries and café culture, either; a trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without a stop at one of its famous outdoor cafes.
2. London, United Kingdom
As one of the most popular cities in the world, it’s no surprise that London tops the list of the most visited cities in Europe. This buzzing metropolis has something for everyone. From the historic landmarks of the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace to the vibrant nightlife and markets of Soho and Camden, there’s always something new to discover in London. Its world-class museums and galleries make it a great destination for culture, too. And the food? Don’t even get us started – if you’re visiting London, you’re sure to sample some of the best international cuisines around.
3. Rome, Italy
Another of Europe’s most visited cities is Rome, the Eternal City. Famous for its incredible history and ancient ruins, this Italian city is a favorite for tourists from all around the world. Visitors to Rome can explore the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Pantheon with ease, and indulge in some of Italy’s most delicious dishes of gelato, pizza, and pasta. Throw in the vibrant nightlife of Trastevere, the aperitivo culture, and the fabulous fashion scene, and it’s not hard to see why Rome is such a huge draw.
4. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations in Spain, and it’s one of the most visited cities in Europe. This bustling city is known for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning architecture, and world-class nightlife. Enjoy some tapas and sangria at one of the city’s many restaurants, take in the works of Gaudà at the Sagrada FamÃlia and Park Güell, and shop ‘til you drop on Las Ramblas. Then, for a change of pace, take a stroll along the beach and relax with a sundowner.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a city like no other; the capital of the Netherlands is brimming with colorful culture, beautiful canals, and world-famous art. From cycling along the picturesque canal-side roads to exploring the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, there’s plenty to see and do in Amsterdam. And of course, no trip to this city would be complete without sampling some of the best Dutch food around, like Dutch cheese and even space cakes!
6. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the capital city of Austria, is another one of the most visited cities in Europe. Framed by stunning baroque and neo-Renaissance architecture, this city is a delight to explore on foot. Be sure to take a wander through the Belvedere Palace, which was once the home to the famous artist Gustav Klimt and his studio. You’ll also want to spend some time in the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace; this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna, and its sprawling gardens are just perfect for an afternoon stroll.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most visited. Its stunning medieval streets, cobbled squares and Gothic architecture have earned it the moniker ‘the City of a Hundred Spires’, and it’s easy to see why. There are plenty of incredible art galleries and museums to explore, too, such as the National Gallery and Mucha Museum. For an even more lively experience, head to the Old Town Square and be surrounded by street performers and entertainers.
8. Istanbul, Turkey
The bustling streets of Istanbul are a must-see for any traveler to Turkey. This stunning city is one of the most visited in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. Istanbul is a cultural hot spot, and its ancient monuments, mosques, and palaces are truly breathtaking. The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar are two of the most famous attractions in the city, and they should definitely be explored. The delicious Turkish cuisine is another big draw, and a sample of the city’s unique blend of European and Asian flavors is not to be missed.
9. Berlin, Germany
The vibrant city of Berlin is one of the most visited cities in Europe. Historically-rich and with an incredible art scene, it’s a great destination for culture vultures. Don’t miss the historic Brandenburg Gate and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, or enjoy some of the more unusual attractions around the city, like the Techno Club and the Alice in Wonderland street art. Berlin also has some of the best nightlife in Europe, so be sure to make time for some clubbing and soaking up the city’s buzzing atmosphere.
10. Madrid, Spain
The Spanish capital of Madrid rounds off our list of the 10 most visited cities in Europe. This vibrant city is famous for its lively nightlife, flamenco dancing, and world-class art galleries featuring the works of Spanish masters like Velazquez and Goya. Enjoy an incredible bite at one of the city’s many restaurants, like Mercado de San Miguel, or take a leisurely stroll around El Retiro Park. The Prado Museum is a must-visit too, with its incredible selection of artwork and sculptures.
With such a wide range of incredible cities to choose from, it’s no surprise that Europe is a popular destination for travelers from all around the world. In this article, we’ve taken a look at the 10 most visited cities in Europe and explored why they’re so popular. From the ancient cobblestoned streets of Paris to the vibrant party scene in Berlin, there’s something for everyone in Europe. No matter which city you plan to visit, you can be sure that you’ll have a trip of a lifetime.
