Many people flock to Europe over the summer to take advantage of the incredible scenery, the delicious food, and the classic architecture and culture. There are plenty of places to see, discover, and adventure as you embark on your European vacation. Here are 15 top destinations to see in Europe.
15. Athens, Greece
Flowing from ancient civilization mixed in with modernity, Athens is a beautiful place to visit. It is considered one of the sunniest cities in all of Europe. As part of the Ancient Greek civilization, you can go out and explore the ancient ruins, see the Parthenon, and learn history. After all the exploring, relax with some wine and sit by the sandy beaches. Athens is undoubtedly a city to go and explore and has been placed on this list of the top destinations to see in Europe.
14. Lisbon, Portugal
One city that many people have been flocking to is Lisbon, Portugal. This Portuguese capital boasts beautiful beaches just 20 minutes away, seven hills, and fantastic food and wine to enjoy as you relax on your vacation. There is so much to see and do in Portugal, but Lisbon should be on your list when visiting Europe.
13. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Known as the oldest walled city in Europe, Dubrovnik sits on the Dalmatian coast near both Bosnia and Montenegro. This medieval city has lasted time and time again of war and provides many with captivating scenes, beautiful beaches, a great wall, and spectacular seafood. It is the site of many locations in Game of Thrones as popularized by King's Landing.
12. Ljubljana, Slovenia
In this charming little capital of Slovenia sits Ljubljana, which is full of history. The riverside is full of beauty, where little shops, cafes, and restaurants sit so that you can enjoy the tranquility of this charming little place. The castle sits on a hill overlooking the city, but you will find that Slovenia is an excellent place full of wonderful people. So come to this little place in the Central part of Europe and enjoy your time here.
11. Santorini Greece
On many people's bucket lists is Greece, especially Santorini, Greece, with its white buildings and blue rooftops. It is considered one of Europe's top destinations with boat tours, food tours, beautiful sunsets, a relaxing area, and a tremendous hopping-off spot to other parts of Greece. Come to Santorini to relax and have fun in the sun.
10. Florence Italy
You can visit many places in Italy, but Florence offers the heart of the Renaissance. You will have the opportunity to join food tours, explore the streets, take photos of the beautiful architecture, and learn about this Italian city's history and cultural significance. That means it should be on your list of top destinations in Europe.
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Famous for its bicycle-friendly streets and the canals around the city, Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is full of beauty, coffee shops, and plenty of cultures get lost. So come to Amsterdam and explore, and make sure to take a trip on the lovely canals before you leave. You can see the Van Gogh Museum, venture over to the Jewish quarter to see where Ann Frank once lived, and enjoy a Stroop waffle. You will love this city.
8. London, England
If you like history, then you would enjoy going to London. It is chalked full of palaces like Buckingham Palace and Hampton Court Palace. The famous London Bridge, plus the Tower of London, holds the crown jewels. Don’t forget to stop by Carnaby Street for some fantastic shopping. If you feel a little bored, stop by a pub to watch some English Premier Soccer.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
One of the best-looking cities in all of Europe has to be Prague. With the architecture and being able to walk the whole city, you will find loads to see and do, like the Lennon Wall, The Charles Bridge, and of course the Prague Castle. Remember that the beer is cheap and good. Prague is one city you want to put on your European must-see list.
6. Budapest, Hungary
Snuggled in Central Europe is Budapest, Hungary. It is this old city with a fantastic riverside. It has incredible architecture, culture, and excellent food to go along with it. Make sure you are there in August to stay for the national day on August 20th, when all the celebrations and Hungarians come out to eat, drink and have a good time.
5. Vienna, Austria
Voted one of the best cities in the world, Vienna is a modern wonder. Full of great coffee shops, museums, and fantastic food, you can take a few days to see this Austrian capital and be in awe of so much that is all around it. You, too, will know why it is voted one of the best cities in the world.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is known for being the connection between Europe and Asia. It contains Byzantine architecture, Turkish coffee and food, and the excellent Hagia Sophia. So much culture and history set this city apart from many others. This city should be on everyone's list to see and explore.
3. Rome, Italy
Come and visit the ancient capital of the Roman Empire, Rome. This city is full of history and culture and is like a museum for all to see. You can see the Colosseum and the Pantheon and venture over to the catacombs and underground galleries. Rome is a great place to visit and a great location to branch out and see more of Italy.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a city that should be on your list of places to see in Europe. A city full of sound arts, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. With so much to see and do, you can take a walking tour, hop on hop off the bus to see more and grab a city pass to see if the deals are worth it. A must is to see a soccer game with FC Barcelona. So there are plenty of things to see and do. So come and visit Barcelona.
1. Paris, France
Paris, what can you say? It is bustling with museums, cafes, and many things to see and do. It is a city of love where people can enjoy a wide variety of activities, such as seeing the Louvre, going on a Champagne tour, or taking a free walking tour of the city. You can venture to the famous Notre Dame or watch Messi play soccer with PSG. Paris should be on everyone's list.
So Much To See
Europe is full of excellent places to visit. The history, culture, food, and architecture are just reasons people travel there. Remember that the beaches and mountains are glorious as well. So if you plan a trip, make sure to hit many places. There is just too much to see and do in Europe.
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I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more. And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.