best cities to visit central europe

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21 Best Places to Visit in Central Europe

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on October 6, 2023

Central Europe is caught between two worlds, the Frankish, Norman, and Mediterranean West and South of Europe – and the mainly Slavic Eastern Europe. At its center is Germany. Only unified into a single nation 150 years ago, its principalities and people have for centuries spread all across this region of Europe, making their influence known.

Today, you’ll find Bavarian villages in Central Europe, old castle towns, grandiose market squares that point to a rich history of trade in the region, as well as glittering old imperial cities with remnants of the Roman Empire still visible.

Dominated by the Alps, the heart of Europe is rich in natural beauty: mountains march around towns, lakes reflect the jagged peaks, rivers carve through villages, and forests sit waiting to be explored.

21. Zell am See [SEE MAP]

Zell am See is a small town situated on the shores of Lake Zell, just south of Salzburg, Austria. The alpine lake is a beautiful spot to enjoy year-round. In the summer months, there are water sports to enjoy and sunbathing, as well as some lovely hikes around the lake. In the winter, there’s excellent skiing in the surrounding mountains.

The town itself boasts the Romanesque St. Hippolyte’s Church, one of the oldest churches in the region – complete with 15th-century tower – plus many streetside cafes and bars, as well as low-cost and high-end accommodation options.

20. Rothenburg ob der Tauber [SEE MAP]

A well preserved medieval town, Rothenburg ob der Tauber sits on the illustrious Romantic Road route through Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. The town itself is a maze of cobbled lanes and wonky houses that make for a quintessentially storybook destination.

The central square of the town is a decidedly romantic setting for the Rothenburger Reiterlesmarkt; this Christmas market is a fantastic place to visit when the season is right, making the town even more magical. Easy to get to thanks to its location on the Romantic Road, you can also stay in charming hotels that make you feel like you’re part of the town.

19. Ljubljana [SEE MAP]

Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia and its largest city to boot. The tree-lined Ljubljanica River – a central part of the capital – turns even more charming in summer, with locals sipping coffee at cafes by the river’s edge and strolling along the banks. Ljubljana is also a vibrant student town with a lively, energetic nightlife and a delightful dining scene.

There are also many historical sights , especially the old town, but the medieval Ljubljana Castle is an icon of the city and provides impressive views across the town. There are also the remains of its Roman city walls. Staying in Ljubljana is easy, with a whole host of affordable lodgings on offer.

18. Innsbruck [SEE MAP]

Surrounded by the imposing mountains of the Nordkette Range, and valleys carpeted in thick greenery, Innsbruck is a beautiful mountain town with an abundance of interesting activities to enjoy in both summer and winter. This Austrian town is made up of the medieval Altstadt (Old Town), with fairytale-esque buildings, as well as a Renaissance-style castle and Baroque cathedral.

In Innsbruck, you can enjoy camping out of town in summer, in which case you’ll get to be right on nature’s doorstep, as well as close to hiking opportunities; or splash out on grander lodgings in the heart of the town.

17. Heidelberg [SEE MAP]

Heidelberg is the oldest university town in Germany. With its attractive Baroque Altstadt, lush forested surroundings, and relaxing riverside, this town is like stepping into times gone by – complete with great student nightlife, of course. The town’s brick-built, partially renovated hilltop castle sits on a site dating back to the 13th century high above the red roofs of the Old Town.

The Philosopher’s Walk is a picturesque, historic walking path on the north side of Heidelberg with vistas across the town. Remnants of the ancient Celtic wall can still be seen here, too. You can even stay in heritage buildings – one dates back to 1592 – or in affordable hostels.

16. Warsaw [SEE MAP]

The capital of Poland is home to a historic Old Town and buzzing local life that makes it well worth a visit. Putting its Communist era and wartime tragedies well in the past, there’s a new lease of life along its cobbled lanes. Walk along the Royal Route for a chance to spot the best historic sights in the city, like the statue of Copernicus and the Holy Cross Church.

There’s also the imposing 1950s Palace of Culture and Science (the tallest building in Poland) and the grand, 16th-century Royal Castle. Accommodation options and transport abound in this lively and fascinating city.

15. Bratislava [SEE MAP]

Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia and actually one of the smallest capital cities in Europe. Even so, there is a lot of history and architecture packed into its core; the medieval and Gothic old town, with its ornate palaces and impressive castle, are a must-see. Mixed with this are Communist-era blocks and Modernist, concrete infrastructure.

Located on the banks of the storied Danube, the streets are busy with stylish boutiques, buzzing bars, and happening cafes. If you’re looking for a place to stay, simply take your pick; there is plenty in Bratislava to fit a variety of travel types.

14. Lucerne [SEE MAP]

Switzerland’s Lucerne sits on the shores of Lake Lucerne, edged by snow-capped mountains. There are magnetic views of the lake to enjoy, as well as a stunning old town to explore with a heap of medieval architecture to marvel at. The Musegg Wall, bordering the old town, dates back to the 13th century, while the amazing, art-filled Chapel Bridge was built in 1333.

You can also admire the 15th-century Hofkirche St. Leodegar or head to the neoclassical Sammlung Rosengart for plenty of Picasso pieces on show. Otherwise, just soak up the upbeat atmosphere that is infectious in the vibrant city of Lucerne.

13. Salzburg [SEE MAP]

Salzburg is an Austrian city that sits on the border with Germany. It comes complete with inescapable and incredible views of the Eastern Alps. Split by the Salzach River, Salzburg is a city of two halves: the Altstadt sits on the left bank of the river and boasts pedestrianized streets with medieval and Baroque architecture; the right bank is Neustadt, the 19th-century, neo-Gothic ‘New Town.’

Many iconic sights can be found in Salzburg , such as the Baroque Domquartier (the Archbishop’s Palace), but it’s probably most famous as the birthplace of prodigious composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

12. Zermatt [SEE MAP]

Set in the Valais Canton, Zermatt is a quintessential Swiss mountain resort that’s popular with skiers. This is where you will find the jagged peak of the famously breathtaking Matterhorn; the sight of this mountain is an iconic image of the region, and it’s also very popular with climbers.

The town itself actually sits at 1,600 meters above sea level, but is still in the shadow of the Matterhorn. While daytime is all about skiing or hiking, Zermatt has a busy main street with plenty of places to eat, drink, and stay, and comes complete with a lively apres-ski atmosphere.

11. Munich [SEE MAP]

Birthplace of the international sensation that is Oktoberfest, Munich is the Bavarian capital, and a city of beer and bratwurst. There’s more to it than eating and drinking in its beer halls, however. At the heart of the Altstadt lies Marienplatz Square, which is overlooked by its centerpiece, the New Town Hall, a soaring, intricate Neo-Gothic masterpiece built in 1874.

There’s also the 12th-century St Peter’s Church and the very pretty Frauenkirche Cathedral, dating all the way back to the 15th century. The Englischer Garten (a venue of Oktoberfest) is a large public park from 1789; it’s an excellent spot for a beer, a snack, and watching the locals go about their days.

See also: Where to Stay in Munich

10. Hallstatt [SEE MAP]

Situated on the western shore of the lake of the same name, Hallstatt is an Austrian gem of a city. It’s all about the location, which boasts the gorgeous, emerald waters of the lake that reflect the alpine hills surrounding it.

In winter, the town is coated with a thick dusting of snow, and skiing is on the cards. In summer, hiking in the hills and water sports become the order of the day. This mountain town boats local cafes and charming shops in beautiful 16th-century houses along attractive alleyways, as well as boutique and more affordable places to stay.

9. Zurich [SEE MAP]

The world center of finance and banking, Zurich is a northern Swiss town that hugs the shores of Lake Zurich. Aside from the serious world of economics and money, it’s an attractive city with a handsome Altstadt at its core.

The city spills out across the Limmat River and comes alive with waterside walkways and magnificent medieval buildings, as well as the 17th-century Town Hall practically hanging over the water. There’s also the interesting old mercantile district of Augustinegasse, complete with ornately carved windows. Accommodation here isn’t always affordable, so be prepared to splash out on boutique offerings or chic digs.

8. Budapest [SEE MAP]

Budapest is the Hungarian capital. Known for being made up of three parts, the town has a lot of history, and can even trace its origins back to Roman times. Relics of Rome can be found in the oldest part of the city, Buda, as well as the even older part, Obuda (literally, “Old Buda”).

Pest is where you will find the newer, 19th-century face of Budapest , complete with its stunning Houses of Parliament, Opera House, and St Stephen’s Basilica. With plenty of affordable, old-world accommodation on offer, staying in Budapest and enjoying its hot mineral baths couldn’t be easier.

7. Krakow [SEE MAP]

Located near the Czech border, Krakow is a southern Polish city with a lot of character to discover. Its medieval center features such architectural delights as the Rynek Glowny – the market square – where you will find the massively impressive Cloth Hall, as well as St Mary’s Basilica.

The city has a rich Jewish history; the former Jewish quarter of Kazimierz, though with a dark WWII history, is now alive with quirky cafes and hipster bars. To learn more about that history, it’s a simple trip from Krakow to the infamous and harrowing Auschwitz.

See also: Where to Stay in Krakow

6. Fussen [SEE MAP]

A Bavarian town close to the Austrian border, Fussen is famous for the many castles that can be found in and around town. There’s the medieval Hohes Schloss, with its white walls and red roofs; amazingly, this has been an important site ever since the Romans built a rest stop here in 47 AD.

The Altstadt of Fussen is awash with 700-year-old Bavarian architecture, making the perfect place for a coffee along its pedestrianized streets. Take a trip from Fussen to the nearby Neuschwanstein, King Ludwig II’s 19th-century fairytale castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle.

5. Lake Bled [SEE MAP]

Located in the Julian Alps in northwestern Slovenia, Lake Bled is a scenic spot indeed. One of the best places here is in the lake itself – Bled Island. On the island, which is reachable via a rentable rowboat or a pletna (traditional wooden boat), you’ll find the Church of the Assumption of Mary.

There’s also Bled Castle nearby. But the summer months at Lake Bled are all about enjoying the water, splashing around, swimming, sunbathing, and boating. You can even hike very easily around the lake itself, with many interesting places to stop at along the way – and beautiful views over the lake, too.

4. Jungfrau Region [SEE MAP]

Named after the Jungfrau (or ‘Virgin’) Mountain, the Jungfrau Region is made up of daring mountainous landscape, sheer waterfalls, and impressive glaciers. Jungfrau Mountain itself is a famous peak and towers at 4,158 meters above sea level. The Jungfraubahnen cogwheel train travels to Europe’s highest railway station high above Interlaken where Switzerland is at its most beautiful.

The famous Trummelbachfalle is a collection of ten glacier falls located actually inside a mountain, only reachable via lift. A visit to the town of Wengen is like stepping back in time; its timber houses and charming holiday resorts make it a great base for exploring the region. Ski in the winter or hike in the summer – it’s beautiful either way.

3. Vienna [SEE MAP]

The Austrian capital of Vienna is known for its intellectual and artistic past: it has at one time or another been the home of figures such as Freud, Mozart, Lenin, and Beethoven. There are imperial palaces aplenty in Vienna , giving you an insight into the past of the Austro-Hungarian Empire; there’s the opulent Baroque Schonbrunn Palace – summer retreat of the Habsburg royalty – as well as the lavish apartments at Hofburg.

The 18th-century Vienna State Opera is a beautiful building that shows the importance of art and culture in this historic city. Enjoy heritage cafes, amazing bakeries, stay in budget hostels or high-end hotels, and discover what makes Vienna tick.

See also: Where to Stay in Vienna

2. Berlin [SEE MAP]

The bold and brash German capital is a city that has seen a lot of history, most recently being split between capitalist West and socialist East Germany. But with its turbulent history in the past, this modern-day city has a fashionable street scene, energetic art culture, infamous and very cool nightlife, and plenty of hipster hangouts.

Go and see sections of the Berlin Wall and see graffiti daubed on it at East Side Gallery, or go to the classical archway steeped in history at the Brandenburg Gate. Elsewhere, the Reichstag Building is a marrying of past and present. There are many cool places to stay in Berlin , and many more places to eat, drink, and dance the night away.

1. Prague [SEE MAP]

Prague is the Czech Republic’s stunning capital. Though it’s famous for its nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants to hop around after dark – as well as plenty of places to stay – the city also has a plethora of history to discover.

The beautiful Old Town of Prague is home to the oldest working astronomical clock, the 600-year-old Orloj. Connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town is the pedestrianized Charles Bridge, built in 1402. Prague Castle dates back to the 9th century; this amazingly historic building is now the seat of the Czech president. Understand about Prague’s Jewish history at the old Jewish Quarter, see the oldest synagogue in Europe, and visit the old Jewish cemetery.

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The Best 10 Days In Central Europe Itinerary: Prague, Vienna, Salzburg, and Budapest

Exploring Central Europe? This is the ultimate 10 day itinerary.

It takes you to Central Europe’s most illustrious cities: Prague, Vienna, Salzburg, and Budapest. It also gives you day trip options for visiting Cesly Krumlov, Bratislava Slovakia, and/or Austria’s Wachau Valley.

These spectacular Central European cities have emerged from the shadows of superstars like Paris, London , and Rome .

They boast rich and unique histories, remarkable architecture, stunning medieval squares, world class museums, and culinary delights. This 10 day Central Europe itinerary takes you to all the must visit sites, attractions, and landmarks in each city.

This 10 day Central Europe itinerary begins in Prague in the Czech Republic. From Prague, you’ll travel southeast to the elegant city of Vienna Austria.

Then, you’ll head to the fairytale town of Salzburg for a couple days. You’ll finish up in the exciting city of Budapest, basing yourself in the lovely capital of Hungary for the rest of the trip (unless you decided to extend your vacation!)

Here’s a day by day run down of what you’ll see in 10:

• Day 1 : Prague
• Day 2 : Prague
• Day 3 : Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov
• Day 4 : Vienna
• Day 5 : Vienna
• Day 6 : Day Trip to Wachau Valley or Bratislava
• Day 7 : Salzburg
• Day 8 : Salzburg
• Day 9 : Budapest
• Day 10 : Budapest

More Time? Head To Zagreb Croatia

For this road trip or 10 day vacation, you’ll have four bases: (1) Prague (3 nights); (2) Vienna (3 nights), (3) Salzburg (1 night); and (4) Budapest (3 nights).

You can do this Central Europe itinerary by car or high speed train. I give you tips for where to stay in each city.

Overview Of 10 Days In Central Europe

Length of Trip : 10 days or more

Start and End Point : Prague and Budapest

UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Prague Historic Center, Prague Castle, Cesky Krymolov Historic Center, Schonbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, Wachau Valley, Salzburg Historic Center, Budapest Castle District, Danube Embankment Budapest

You can make this Central Europe road trip itinerary shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace.

You can also reverse the order and start in Budapest and end in Prague. If you want more time in the cities, skip Salzburg, which is some distance from Budapest.

The Best 10 Days in Central Europe Itinerary

Here’s what I think is the best way to explore the classic cites of Central Europe in ten days.

Day 1: Prague, Czech Republic

You kick off your ten days in Central Europe in Prague.

Dubbed the “City of 100 Spires,” Prague is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Prague is synonymous with over-the-top romance and evocative Old World charm.

Having escaped the bombings of the big wars, it’s a historic and well-preserved wonder. You may want to book a 3 hour guided walking tour for an overview of the old town and to get oriented.

Because of this, be prepared for crowds. Prague is not by any means a hidden gem in Europe any longer. And Prague has so many must visit attractions.

1. Prague Castle Complex

On day 1, spend your morning visiting the Prague Castle Complex . Located on Hradcany Hill, the UNESCO-listed Prague Castle dates from the 9th century.

Click here to purchase a skip the line entry ticket. Click here for an entry ticket + 12.5 hour guided tour of the castle.

Czech leaders have ruled there for a 1000 years. The complex is a 1,500 foot long series of courtyards, churches, and palaces.

The old Royal Palace is part of Prague Castle. This was the actual residence of the Czech kings and princes. It still serves as the residence of the Czech President.

Vladislav Hall is a must see beautiful late Gothic hall inside, topped with a vault with intertwined curved ribs. Don’t miss the magnificent sculpture of St. George and the Dragon in a courtyard by the southern wall.

2. St. Vitus Cathedral

St. Vitus Cathedral is part of the castle complex. It’s the most important religious monument in the Czech Republic. It’s a High Gothic and Neo-Gothic creation.

Inside, there are dramatic ribbed vaults. The centerpiece is Alfons Mucha’s beautiful 1931 Art Nouveau window. The gallery in the Great Spire offers a beautiful bird’s eye view of Prague.

You should also check out what’s hidden underground. Below are the uncovered foundations of two earlier churches and the tombs of the Czech kings and religious VIPs.

A door with seven locks protects the entrance to the Coronation Chamber. This room contains the Bohemian Crown Jewels , which are only displayed every 5 years.

The most valuable piece is the St. Wenceslas crown. It’s rumored to punish by death any thief who puts the crown on his or her head.

3. Charles Bridge

Then, in the afternoon after lunch, stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge. Built in 1357, the bridge has 16 sandstone arches. And it’s effectively an open air art gallery, adorned with bronze sculptures of Czech saints in the bridge’s pillar columns.

At both ends are fortified towers, part of the city’s medieval defense system. You can tour both towers.

4. Old Town Square

The historic Old Town Square is the heart of Prague, were both locals and tourists collide. The square is where many of the main sites and landmarks in Prague are located.

Check out the Astronomical Clock, mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall. If you have time, head into the grand Kinsky Palace .

It’s a Rococo style palace with a delicate pink and white stucco facade. The palace is home to the National Gallery.

4. Tyn Cathedral

Dominating the eastern side of Old Town Square is the stunning Tyn Cathedral , with intimidating twin Gothic spires. In the upper gable, is a statue of the Virgin Mary with a golden halo.

The original Gothic vaulting was destroyed by fire and replaced with Baroque decoration. There are 19 ornately carved altars.

Also step into the opulent St. Nicholas Church , the Czech Republic’s most beautiful Baroque building. There are often classical music concerts in both churches.

In the evening, indulge in the unique Czech cuisines. There are dozens of restaurants in and around the Old Town Square. It’s a good idea to make reservations. Try the Czech beer. It’s cheaper than water!

Day 2: Prague

1. jewish quarter.

Start day 2 in Prague with a visit to the historic Jewish Quarter, the evocative Josefov neighborhood. You can book a 2.5 hour guided tour that includes entry to the synagogue.

The compact Josefov has some of Europe’s most important Jewish sights, including 6 synagogues from the 16th and 17th centuries. Together, they act as museums, providing a history of Jewish customs and traditions.

One synagogue, the Pinkas, is now a moving memorial. It honors Czech Jews murdered in World War II. Just behind the Pinkas is Josefov’s ancient cemetery, with a jumble of grave stones.

Then, head to Our Lady of Victorious Church. Built in a classic Baroque style, it’s home to a statuette of the Christ child. The church is the site of alleged miracles performed after prayers to the Christ child.

Then check out the John Lennon Wall, a hugely popular Prague attraction. When the popular Beatle John Lennon was killed in 1980, the youth of Prague expressed their grief by covering the wall with colorful graffiti.

In Grand Prior Square, you can also admire Grand Prior Palace (a former monastery), the Church of the Virgin Mary, and the monumental Buquoy Palace.

15 minutes away from the square is Petrin Lookout Tower . It’s one of Prague’s most prominent landmarks, inspired by Paris’ Eiffel Tower. You can climb almost 300 steps to the top for jaw dropping views from Petrin Hill.

2. New Town

Then head to New Town Prague. Wenceslas Square is a must see site, created by Charles IV in the 14th century. It once served as an administrative and commercial seat.

This square is home to the newly renovated National Museum . It’s also pedestrian friendly and filled with shops and eateries.

Charles Square is the largest square in the Czech Republic. The two most notable monuments are the New Town Hall and the Church of Saint Ignatius.

Another marque attraction of Prague’s New Town is the Dancing House . Built in 1966, this is the most modern building in Prague. It was designed by Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic. The restaurant terrace offers a superb panoramic view of Prague.

If you are looking for something to do in the evening, there area loads of options. You can (1) take a tour of medieval underground Prague ; (2) take in a concert at Lobkowicz Palace ; (3) go on an evening food tour ; (4) tour Prague Castle at night ; or (5) take a Vltava River cruise .

Where To Stay In Prague

Prague has some truly gorgeous hotels.

You can check out the Four Seasons (amazing location), the Mandarin Oriental (medieval luxury), the Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa (Italian flare in the old town), or the Augustine (where monastic austerity meets modern luxury).

The Art Deco Imperial Hotel is in an impressive Art Deco building. It’s adorned with mosaics and hand painted tiles.

The Buddha-Bar Hotel Prague offers a unique Asian themed boutique stay. The BoHo Hotel Prague is a modern design boutique hotel.

Day 3: Day Trip To Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

On day 3, it’s time to day trip to the tiny medieval town of Cesky Krumlov. This quaint UNESCO-listed town is a 2.5 hour drive from Prague. Or, you can book a full day guided day trip tour from Prague .

The bus station is walkable from the town center. The train station is 5 minutes from Wenceslas Square. There’s also only one train per day, so going by train probably isn’t the best option.

You could stay overnight in Cesy Krumlov on day 2 of your itinerary instead of Prague, if you want to see the city early. That way, you take in some of the sites before the day trippers arrive and make the tiny town seems overcrowded.

The best way to admire Cesky Krumlov is to simply stroll around. It’s a town made for wandering and head swiveling.

There’s also a free walking tour that begins at 10:30 am and 2:00 pm daily, given by Wiseman Free Walking Tour . You can also book your own guided walking tour of the old town .

You should probably purchase the Cesky Krumlov Card . It will give you admission to all the town’s major sites: the Castle Tower, the Castle Museum, the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, and other museums and monasteries.

The Pesky Krumlov Castle s the town’s impressive main landmark. There are opulent rooms inside, including a beautiful preserved Baroque theater. You can also climb the tower (162 steps) for some stunning views. Or wander in the castle gardens.

The Church of St. Vitus is also quite lovely. Built in the 15th century, the Gothic church is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the town. It often hosts classical music concerts.

Day 4: Vienna

On day 4 of your 10 day Central Europe itinerary, you’ll make the 3.5 hour drive from Prague to Vienna. Or take one of the frequent high speed Railjet trains. With such a long journey, you’ll only have half a day or so in Vienna on your first day.

Vienna is such a fancy city, a beautiful open air museum really. It’s awash in imperial palaces, grand Baroque architecture, and seriously swoonful museums. It’s one of the best cities in Europe for art lovers .

Vienna is the capital of Austria, the birthplace of classical music, and home to the Habsburg dynasty and its rich heritage. The city center is pedestrian friendly, sprinkled with green parks, and crammed with quaint coffee shops.

And Vienna doesn’t just bask, unblinkingly, in its quaint fin-de-siècle glory. It’s become more hip since the last time I visited, with new and renovated museums, trendy boutique hotels and restaurants, and edgy neighborhoods. It’s cooler than you’d guess.

I’ve written a detailed 3 day itinerary for Vienna , so I won’t repeat it all here. On this day, follow the recommended itinerary for day 1. You may want to get things kicked off with a guided walking tour of the old town .

This will take you to the main sites in the historic center of Vienna: St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, the Rathouse (Town Hall) and the Opera House. Be sure to stroll around the old town and down Graben street.

Indulge in Vienna’s specialty: the Sacher Torte, a delicious concoction of chocolate, cream, and apricot jam. The best places are Cafe Hawelka, Cafe Central, or Cafe Schwartzenburg.

For dinner in Vienna, I can recommend Salonplafond at the MAJK Museum, SIXTA, and Pramerl & the Wolf (Michelen). You can also click  here  to book a classical music concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 5: Vienna

On day 5 of your 10 days in Central Europe itinerary, you’ll stay in Vienna.

1. Museum Quarter

Vienna is also overflowing with world class museums. In the morning on your second day in Vienna, head to Museums Quarter for a cluster of them in a hip square teeming with cafes.

The Leopold Museum holds one of the world’s most important collection of late 19th and early 20th century Austrian art. It’s one of the world’s best small museums . Click  here  to buy a skip the line ticket.

2. Kunsthistoriches

Likely the grandest of Austria’s museums, in a sea of riches, is the Kunsthistorisches Museum . Opened in 1891, the Kunsthistorisches is Vienna’s Louvre. The museum is one of the world’s most impressive fine art museums, especially if you love old masters.

Click  here  to pre-book a ticket. Click  here  to book a guided tour of this magnificent museum.

Or, travel with a theme and ferret out Gustav Klimt paintings or Beethoven sites . If you want to pay homage to the mysterious Empress Sisi, visit the Sisi Museum is in the Hofburg Palace.

3. Belvedere Palace

After the Kunsthistoriches, my favorite Vienna museum is the Belvedere Palace . The Belvedere Palace is one of Vienna’s must see attractions and an important UNESCO site for its showy architectural ensemble. It’s also home to Austria’s most famous painting, Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss .

Click   here  to pre-purchase a skip the line ticket to the Belvedere palace. Click  here  to book a 2.5 hour guided tour of the Palace.

The Belvedere’s a haven of Baroque and Austrian art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Its main claim to fame is the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including the world famous The Kiss .

It also boasts masterworks by Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, two important Expressionist painters.

READ : Complete Guide To Visiting Belvedere Palace

4. Schönbrunn Palace

In the afternoon, head to Schönbrunn Palace, outside Vienna. The palace is a UNESCO-listed site and the height of elegance.

 Be sure to purchase your  tickets online in advance. You can also hop on a guided   skip the line guided tour , book a  guided tour with a historian , or a  dinner and concert evening .

The swishy Renaissance palace was the summer home of the Hapsburg dynasty, the family that ruled the Austro-Hungarian empire for nearly 650 years. You’ll want to check out the palace itself and the extensive garden complex. Be prepared to walk.

Of Schönbrunn’s 1441 rooms, 40 are open to the public via audio guide or guided tour. The “Imperial Tour” takes you into 22 rooms, including the imperial apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and famous wife, Empress Sisi.

5. Staatsoper

In the evening, consider taking in a performance at the State Opera House, the Staatsoper. Vienna is also beautiful just to explore at night on a photo walk.

Or relax at a rooftop bar. If you’re visiting in the winter, the city is magical and lit up with fairy lights and Christmas markets.

READ : Things To Do In Vienna in Winter

Where To Stay In Vienna

Vienna is loaded with both grand hotels and adorable boutique hotels in centuries old neighborhoods.

One of my favorite hotels is the Palais Coburg . It’s a beautiful hotel in a 19th century palace. The lovely  Hotel Sans Souci Wien  is an elegant properly near Museum Quarter with a spa. The  Grand Ferdinand Hotel  is centrally located and has a unique rooftop pool and restaurant.

Of course, you can always check out classics like  Ritz-Carlton ,  Park Hyatt , and the elegant Hotel Sacher Wien .

You should also check out these lovely boutique hotels:  House of Time or  Palais Hansen Kempinski .

Day 6: Day Trip to Wachau Valley or Bratislava

On day 6 of your Central Europe itinerary, get out of the city. Head to either the small town of Bratislava in Slovakia. Or, for a more pastoral experience, head to the verdant Wachau Valley.

1. Option 1: Wachau Valley

The UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley is the verdant heartland of the Austrian Danube , a 24 mile stretch of pure loveliness between Krems and Melk. It’s less than an hour from Vienna. You can visit by driving, biking, or taking the shuttle boats.

You may also want to book a guided day tour from Vienna . Or a full day biking and wine tour from Vienna . I did this one and it was fantastic.

Wachau is an impossibly romantic valley overlooked by castle ruins, fortresses, and sleepy medieval hamlets. They nestle amid terraced vineyards and apricot groves.

The Wachau Valley goes from Krems to Melk. A highlight is the adorable town of Durnstein with craggy castle ruins. Here’s my guide to visiting the Wachau Valley . It covers all the must visit towns, historic attractions, and landmarks in the Wacvhau Valley.

2. Option 2: Bratislava

Bratislava is the tiny capital of Slovakia. It’s a little over an hour from Vienna and a popular Danube River cruise excursion.

Bratislava’s vintage-y old town is filled with pastel colored houses, cobbled streets, quirky bronze sculptures, and the world’s most adorable pastry shop, Konditorei Kormut.

Be sure to buy some honey at Medovy Obchod in the old town, where you can sample the honey yourself. I purchased some delicious vanilla and wildflower honey, along with some beehive candles and Bryndza cheese.

Bratislava also boasts a unique, almost over the top, blue church, the Church of St. Elisabeth. It’s a 10 minute walk from the old town.

Everything about the Art Nouveau church is blue — the interior (with added punches of yellow), the exterior, and even the tiles on the roof. Pretty isn’t usually a word I use to describe churches, but it’s apt here.

Even better, Bratislava is crowned with a historic castle, which is really the iconic spot in the town. Perched on a small hill and about a 15 minute hike, the castle is the best viewpoint over the old town.

Outside, it’s an elegant vision, with Gothic and Renaissance elements. Inside, there’s a museum of history.

Click  here  to book a full day guided day trip tour from Vienna to Bratislava. Or book your own  2 hour guided walking tour  for when you arrive.

Day 7: Salzburg

On day 7, you move from Vienna to Salzburg. It’s a 3:15 minute drive or 3 hours on the high speed train.

Leave early so that you can arrive mid day and have a half day of exploring Salzburg. You may want to book a guided walking tour with a historian to get oriented.

Who doesn’t love Salzburg? Well, possibly those who are allergic to tourists. Salzburg is indeed very touristy. But there is a reason for that.

Beautiful Salzburg is a dream worth dreaming, set on the fast flowing Salzach River. It’s studded with elegant domes and spires and crowned with a doughty clifftop fortress. It’s fairytale swoonful, and one of my favorite small cities in Europe.

Salzburg is synonymous with both Mozart and the Sound of Music . Personally, I’m only a fan of the former; Mozart is life. There’s so much to do in Salzburg, you could be busy for days.

Take in the regal Residenz and tSalzburg Cathedral in the Domplatz. The Residenz is full of opulent state rooms. It also have a collection of European paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries.

Make the steep (but short) hike up to the well-preserved 900 year fortress, Festung Hohensalzburg . Click here to book an entrance ticket.

Or, take a riverside stroll along Elisabethkai. Or book a dinner and cruise down the Salzach River .

Day 8: Salzburg

On day 2 in Salzburg, visit Salzburg’s #1 attraction, the Schloss Mirabell and its lovely gardens. In 1606, Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich built the grand palace for his beloved mistress.

In gratitude, she produced 15 children. Mirabell was given the usual Baroque facelift in 1721.

The interior is exceedingly lavish. The highlight is the Marble Hall, flashy with marble, stucco marble, and gilded stucco. It almost looks like a painting. The hall hosts classical concerts and is a wedding venue — what a backdrop.

Much of the song “Do Re Mi “ from the Sound of Music was filmed in the Mirabell Palace gardens. You may even want to book a classic Sound of Music guided tour . You can also attend a concert at Mirabell Palace .

Hopefully, you’re there when the wisteria and cherry blossoms are in their full glory. The garden also offers fantastic views of Hohensalzburg Fortress.

No trip to Salzburg is complete with a stop into Mozart’s Birthplace. After all Salzburg is synonymous with Mozart. At the museum, you’ll find authentic memorabilia, portraits, and musical instruments.

Or, with the rest of your day, you could book an Austrian food tasting tour . You can walk in the footsteps of Mozart on a guide tour . Or take an architecture tour to take in all of Salzburg’s stunning buildings.

Where To Stay In Salzburg

Salzburg has some fantastic hotels. Check out the Hotel Sacher Salzburg , an extremely elegant boutique hotel on the banks of the Salzach River. The Hotel Bristol Salzburg is a beautiful hotel just steps from Mirabell Palace with an award winning restaurant.

Hotel Goldener Hirsch is another historic hotel just steps from Mozart’s birthplace. The rooms are furnished with antiques in a classic Austrian style.

Hotel Rosenvilla is a luxurious small hotel in the exclusive Aigen district, about a 10 minute walk from old town. Another cool boutique hotel is artHotel Blaue Gans right at the foot of Hohensalzbuerg Fortress.

In the evening, drive or take the high speed train to Budapest. The train takes about 5 hours, so you will arrive in Budapest late.

Day 9: Budapest

Beautifully situated on the Danube River, Budapest has a romantic and exotic reputation. It’s a a hot European city break and dubbed the “Paris of the East.”

Budapest is picturesquely divided in two by the river, with Buda on the west and Pest on the east. It has a sense of expansive grandeur.

Both sides of the city have different personalities and offer different cultural experiences. Buda is charming, classy, and quiet. It’s filled with museums, castles, and elegant homes on cobbled streets.

Pest is wilder and cosmopolitan, and where most of the tourist sites and ruin bars are located. Both are beautiful at night, illuminated by lights and cradled by the Danube.

I’ve written a detailed 3 day itinerary for Budapest . On day 1 in Budapest (day 9 of your Central Europe itinerary), start at the Central Market, where you can grab some breakfast. Cross Chain Bridge and head to the Buda section of Budapest.

There, you can admire Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Buda Castle, and visit the Hungarian National Museum.

Click here for a 3 hour walking tour of the historic Buda Castle district. Click  here  for a guided walking tour of Buda Castle.

2. Chain Bridge

Have lunch in Buda at Cafe Corvin or Baltazar . After lunch, head back across Chain Bridge to explore some of the sights in the Leopold district of Pest, saving the Parliament for the morning of day 2.

Facing Chain Bridge on the Pest side is the gorgeous Gresham Palace . It’s one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings in Budapest.

Or anywhere really. It’s owned by the Four Seasons. But you can walk inside and admire the decor, including a gorgeous Dale Chihuly chandelier.

3. St. Stephen’s

St. Stephen’s Basilica, also known as St. Istvan, is Budapest’s largest church. It’s an eclectic mix of styles, reflecting its many architects.

There’s a viewing terrace at the top with wonderful views of the city. Click  here  if you want to book a classical music concert at beautiful St. Stephen’s.

St. Stephen’s Square, in front of the church, has been transformed from a former parking lot into a pretty public space.

The streets and lanes jutting out from the plaza are home to some of Budapest’s trendiest cafes and bars. You can stop for some gelato at the adorable Gelarto Rosa .

Budapest is renowned for its wine. Most of Hungary’s wines are white.

To the left as you leave St. Stephen’s, you’ll find DiVino’s Wine Bar . Have a cocktail.

For dinner, splash out on Onyx , Budapest’s renowned Michelin-starred beauty in the Gerbeaud building. Alternatively, you could go on a Budapest food tour .

If you’re a night owl, do a pub crawl of Budapest’s “ruin bars.” Budapest is renowned for its unique pubs in the Jewish Quarter where you can “get ruined.” Click  here  to book a guided pub crawl of Budapest’s ruins bars.

Day 10: Budapest

1. parliament.

On your the final day of your 10 days in Central Europe, begin your morning with a tour of Parliament. With its majestic location on the east bank of the Danube River, Budapest’s cream colored Parliament building is easily the most stunning piece of architecture in Budapest.

READ : Must See Attractions on the Danube River

Begun in 1885, it took 19 years to build. Its Neo-Gothic design is a forest of pinnacles and flying buttresses, topped by a Neo-Renaissance egg shaped dome.

Not surprisingly, the glorious pile was inspired by the Houses of Parliament in London . Not only is it the tallest structure in Budapest, it’s actually the largest in Hungary.

If you want to tour the interior — and you should — book a ticket online in advance. The building is open at 8:00 am. Tickets are often sold out.

Then, head to the Pest area, Budapest’s gritty heart. You can book a 4 hour guided walking tour to see the historic sites.

Walk through Vorosmarty Ter, an elegant square in the heart of Pest. It’s named after Budapest’s great Romantic poet, Mihaly Vorosmarty. His massive statue-memorial dominates the square.

Admire Gerbeaud Cafe . Peak inside or grab a cup of coffee. A few yards away, you’ll see the whimsical The Little Princess statue, a photographer’s favorite place. head down the pedestrianized Dek Utca, known as the “Fashion Street.”

The main tourist drag through Budapest is Vaci Utca. It’s very crowded and touristy, but there’s some lovely architecture. This is not the place to stop for a bit to eat. It’s very overpriced.

3. Great Synagogue

The Great Synagogue is a gorgeous building, located in the slowly regentrifying Jewish Quarter of the Erzsébetváros district. Built in a Moorish revival style in 1859, like you’d find at Granada’s Alhambra , Dohany is the largest synagogue in Europe.

Located on Korut Street, New York Cafe isn’t far from the synagogue. Stop here for lunch (reserve ahead). The spectacular cafe was built in the late 19th century in a Renaissance style.

Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket for the synagogue. Click  here  to book a 3 hour tour of Jewish Budapest with a historian.

4. Gellert Hill

In the afternoon, take in the views and relax in a salty soak in the Gellert district. Gellert Hill is a magnificent viewpoint.

Gellert Hill takes more effort to climb than Castle Hill does. But it’s worth it. All of Budapest is before you. Coming down from the hill, you’ll find the bronze Empress Sisi statue near Liberty Bridge.

It’s time for a soak in Budapest’s famed thermal baths. The elegant Gellért Thermal Bath has grand hall is free to visitors, if you want a peak but not a soak. The baths are located near the Danube at the foot of Gellert Hill. They’re only open until 7:00 pm, so be sure to allot sufficient time for a pre-dinner soak.

As an alternative, if you want to visit Heroes’ Square (which I think is overrated), head to the Széchenyi Thermal Baths . It’s an even more elaborate, but crowded, bath house inside an iconic local building.

For post-soak drinks, head to the High Note Sky Bar at the Aria Hotel . Amid fairy lights, you’ll have epic views over St. Stephen’s Basilica and square.

For dinner, you don’t even have to move. Just head downstairs to the Liszt Restaurant , just opened in 2019. It serves up historic dishes with a nouvelle twist.

Where To Stay In Budapest

I love the  Aria Hotel Budapes t   in the historic Leopold neighborhood of Pest and loved it. I admit this part of Budapest felt a bit Parisian.

Some other fantastic options include:  Corinthia Budapest  (look like a chateau), the  Casati Hotel  (chic adults only option), the  Parisi Udvar Hotel  (restored Art Nouveau beauty), and of course the  Four Seasons Hotel in Gresham Palac e .

More Than 10 Days In Central Europe?

If you have more than 10 days in Central Europe, head to underrated city of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, for a couple days. The drive from Budapest to Zagreb is only 3.5 hours (or a more distant 6 hours by train).

Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia. It’s located in the northwest Croatia, along the Sava River.

Underrated Zagreb combines cobbled old street charm with edgy and elegant contemporary themes. And it may not be so underrated anymore. Zagreb is overflowing with museums and cafes, to satisfy both the culture vulture and the flaneur.

The photogenic Upper Town has many of Zagreb’s must see sites — the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Gradec, and St. Mark’s Church.

The church has a stunning patterned tile roof depict the Croatian and Zagreb coat of arms. You’ll also find one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb: Lotrščak Tower.

Past St. Mark’s Church is one of Zagreb’s most iconic attractions, the Museum of Broken Relationships. The museum was the brainchild of Olinka Vistica and Drazen Grubisic. They developed an art exhibition concept that involved displaying the discarded tokens and momentos from failed relationships.

If you’d like to spend more time in Croatia beyond Zagreb, check out my 10 day itinerary for Croatia or my 10 day itinerary for Croatia and Slovenia

I have you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in Central Europe itinerary. You may enjoy these other itineraries for Europe:

• Bavaria Germany
• Croatia + Slovenia
• Southern Spain
• Basque Spain
• Spain: Madrid to Seville
• Spain: Major Cities
• Southern France
• Italy’s Classic Cities
• Italy: Milan to Rome
• Italy: Venice to Milan

If you’d like to need a 10 day itinerary for Central Europe, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on October 28, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Trip Magnificent Cities of Central Europe

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Bask in the splendor and romance of central Europe’s intriguing cities. Classical sights and sounds lure travelers to the culture, history and heritage at the center of celebrated imperial rule. Balance sightseeing with relaxing leisure time. Explore cultural legacies and emotionally stirring sites. Find yourself in a modern bohemian rhapsody.

Prague to Vienna

Vienna to budapest, budapest to krakow, krakow to warsaw.

Day 1-2 Distance: 370km / 230mi

• Welcome to Prague. Marvel at the Baroque Church of St Nicholas, Charles Bridge and the Old Town Hall’s famous astronomical clock.
• Tour Hradcany, the city’s Castle District, including the remarkable Prague Castle.
• Quench your thirst on a Prague brewery tour.
• On your way to Vienna, admire the landscape of Bohemia.
• Stop at Cesky Krumlow and enjoy an afternoon walking tour of the splendid medieval town.

Central Bohemia, Czech Republic

Central Bohemia – A region where splendid castles and chateaux await you, the valleys of several rivers, mining museums, silver mines and enchanting countryside!

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Český Krumlov – return to the Renaissance era

One Day in Prague

If you have just one day in Prague, here is a list of must-do's.

Day 3-5 Distance: 320km / 200mi

• Attend a classic concert in the imperial city of Vienna, once home to Strauss, Mozart and Beethoven.
• Sip coffee or indulge in a piece of Sachertorte in a typical Viennese coffee house.
• Stroll in Heroes’ Square for the best view of Hofburg Palace.
• Board a river cruise on the Danube to Bratislava and explore the imposing Bratislava Castle.
• Stop at Esztergom before following the river to Budapest.

Bratislava, Slovakia

The Capital of the Slovak Republic Bratislava, also referred to as the Beauty on the Danube can not only boast interesting history but it also is the centre of the most dynamically developing region of central Europe at present.

Austria's Stunning Capital

Vienna is famous for its cultural events, imperial sights, coffee houses, cozy wine taverns, and the very special Viennese charm.

A Taste of Vienna

Taste Viennese cuisine – one of the newest trends in the culinary world.

Day 6-7 Distance: 450km / 280mi

• In Budapest, start with a dinner cruise along the river for a unique view of the historic architecture illuminated by night.
• While in the twin cities of Buda and Pest, take a trip through history and feast your eyes on the sculptures, paintings and rooms of Buda Castle.
• Relax in one of the city’s thermal pools.
• Enjoy the picturesque Hungarian countryside and visit a working horse farm on the Hungarian puszta , a grassland landscape along the floodplains of ancient rivers.
• Admire the scenic view of the Low Tatras mountain range.

Low Tatras, Slovakia

With their dimensions, the Tatras is the smallest mountain range in the world with an exceptional concentration of wonders set in deep valleys and sky scraping rocky peaks.

Highlights of Budapest

Budapest invites you to explore by day and discover by night.

Budapest Events

Plan your European vacation around Hungary's many events.

Day 8-10 Distance: 380km / 235mi

• Wander Krakow’s historic old town. Poland’s capital for almost 500 years, tour Wawel Castle and experience the grandeur of this former residence of Polish kings.
• Wander the well-preserved Rynek Glowny medieval market square and then explore the Jewish Quarter and St. Mary’s Church.
• Visit the somber Auschwitz concentration camp, a chilling reminder of the Holocaust and the outrages perpetrated against Jews during World War II.
• Restored to its former glory after World War II, discover Warsaw’s historic landmarks such as the magnificent Royal Route and the cobbled lanes of the Old Town Square.

Museums in Warsaw

Discover the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of the History of Poland, the Museum of the Polish Army, and many others in Warsaw.

Sightseeing in Warsaw

Today Warsaw is a city with many faces where tradition intermingles with modernity.

Visiting Krakow

Krakow is known as Poland's treasure. Mark it as your final stop on your Central Europe journey.

Before you go

• Plan your visits to the monuments and book tickets in advance to avoid lines.
• Currency exchange rates may vary daily in some Central European countries, but you should always have an idea about the exchange rate for the country to which you are traveling. Having an idea about the exchange rate will better prepare you for exchanging currency in the Central European country of your destination and arm you with the knowledge that will prevent you from getting scammed.
• Bank machines are ubiquitous around tourist areas and in the city. Use these to withdraw money with your bankcard and PIN (don’t forget to call your bank and tell them you’ll be withdrawing money abroad!).
• Cash is still the best option when traveling in the Central European countries, as not everyone outside of the city center will accept credit cards.

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Best of Central Europe Travel Itinerary for First Timers, Day by Day Guide

Best of central europe travel itinerary for first-timers.

Europe is incredible with much to offer. The possibilities for routes are endless and no matter what you choose you will have an amazing vacation. This Central Europe travel itinerary is designed for first-time visitors. It includes Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria. This is a day-by-day travel guide, including, must-see cities, monuments, incredible day trips, and bucket list experiences. There is much to see and do through Europe’s central corridor, this outlines a 24-day trip (3 weeks of PTO). The trip is easily shortened by eliminating day trips or lengthened by adding Romania.

What cities should I visit in Central Europe?

Europe is huge. It is impossible to see it all on one international trip while working full-time. Sure, you could hop through the most popular cities on an amazing whirlwind trip. But, you did go through the hassle of obtaining a passport so why not use it and plan several trips? Travel does not have to be expensive. You could easily be traveling internationally every other year when you learn travel hacking strategies . Make a personal bucket list of regions you want to explore before creating an itinerary for an international trip . For example, Spain is an incredible country that deserves 3 weeks to explore.

This Central Europe itinerary includes Berlin , Munich , Dresden , Prague , Krakow , Budapest , Bratislava , Vienna , Salzburg , and Innsbruck . You will see the Berlin Wall, have a beer at the famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich, watch Prague’s astronomical clock on the hour, tour the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, wander Vienna’s architecture, dance to the Sound of Music in Salzburg and visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds. Day trips to the alpine village of Hallstatt , the Czech Republic fairytale towns of Cesky Krumlov and Karlovy Vary and stops on Germany’s Romantic Road are included.

Save time by reviewing the following travel guides for the best time of year to visit, currency, budget, language, safety matters, public transportation, what to pack, food to eat, and travel tips specific to that country. I suggest printing this itinerary and plugging your dates into each stop. Then print the linked itinerary for each stop and supplemental things to do. Make adjustments to personalize your trip. Use the search box at the end of the post to find accommodation in your price point for the number of nights indicated. Prepurchase train tickets and organize day tours to ensure everything goes as planned.

Be sure to read each country’s travel guide for everything you will need to know for your visit, including tips, tricks, and interesting facts!

What is the best way to travel around Central Europe?

Europe is spread out and time is limited. Although driving in Central Europe is not difficult, it is not time efficient. With the exception of Poland, Europe is well connected by high-speed trains. This itinerary is fast-paced and includes travel every several days. When taking into account airport security, train travel is the best use of time.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Central Europe?

The shoulder season brings mild weather and fewer crowds, and late September through October is generally a great time to visit Central Europe. Bonus that Oktoberfest actually happens in September! Be sure to pack for chilly weather and bring a jacket.

Where Should I Stay in Central Europe?

This is a fast-paced trip with several day trips by train. I suggest choosing a hotel at your price point close to the central train station. Most European cities are walkable and the city center is often close to this train station. If you fly into a city the airport shuttle will transport you to this station. Day trips will depart from this station and you will be close for early departure when moving on. This eliminates dragging a suitcase through town and looking for an early morning taxi. Plus, you may get to sleep an extra hour in the morning.

How many days in Central Europe is enough?

Central europe travel itinerary 10 days.

If you only have 10 days plan to see no more than 4 cities. You will arrive the morning of day 1 and day 10 will be an international flight day.

Possibilities: 3 Berlin – 3 Prague – 3 Vienna, or 3 Prague – 2 Budapest – 2 Vienna – – 2 Munich, or 3 Munich – 2 Salzburg – 2 Vienna – 2 Budapest

Central Europe Travel Itinerary 17 days

It is possible to visit 6 major cities with a few day trips in 17 days. This will also be fast-paced with locations chosen by the quickest train travel. The last day of each itinerary is an international flight day.

Possibilities: 3 Berlin – 1 Dresden – 2 Prague – 1 Cesky Krumlov or Karlovy Vary – 2 Vienna – 1 Salzburg – 1 Hallstatt – 1 Innsbruck – 1 Romantic Road – 3 Munich

3 Berlin – 1 Dresden – 2 Prague – 1 Cesky Krumlov or Karlovy Vary – 2 Budapest – 2 Vienna – 1 Salzburg – 1 Hallstatt – 1 Romantic Road – 2 Munich

3 Munich – 1 Romantic Road – 1 Neuschwanstein Castle – 1 Innsbruck – 1 Salzburg – 1 Hallstatt – 2 Vienna – 3 Budapest – 1 Cesky Krumlov or Karlovy Vary – 2 Prague

Central Europe Travel Itinerary 24 days

You will need 24 days to see the best of Central Europe. Cities to visit are Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Karlovy Vary, Krakow, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Innsbruck, Munich, Bamberg, Nuremburg, and Rothenburg. Keep reading for a day-by-day itinerary.

Central-Eastern Europe Travel Itinerary 27 Days

Have you thought about  visiting Romania ? Romania borders Hungary and is an easy add-on to this itinerary if time allows. To add Romania to this itinerary simply purchase a discount 1.5-hour nonstop flight from Vienna to Bucharest . Spend a day exploring the beautiful urban decay of Bucharest, visit the village of Brasov , and tour Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania . Then take a return flight to Vienna. Why Vienna and not Budapest? There are discounted nonstop flights from Vienna that save time and money. Visiting Romania adds 3 days to your itinerary.

READ Complete Guide to Romania

Central Europe Travel Itinerary, 3 Week Day by Day Guide

Duration: 24 days

Cities: Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Karlovy Vary, Krakow, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Innsbruck, Munich, Bamberg, Nuremburg, and Rothenburg.

Highlights: Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate, East Side Gallery, Bruhl’s Terrace, Processions of Princes, Zwinger Terrace, Prague’s Astronomical Clock, Prague Castle, Golden Lane, the Lennon Wall, Poland’s Wawel Castle, Poland’s Jewish Ghetto, Schindler’s Factory, Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, Wieliczka Salt Mine, Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, Szechenyi Thermal Bath, Bratislava Castle, UFO Bridge, Hofburg Palace, Austrian National Library, Schönbrunn Palace, Hellbrunn Palace trick fountains, Hallstatt Alpine Village, Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Munich’s Hofbräuhaus, Nymphenburg Palace, Dachau Concentration Camp, Germany’s Romantic Road, and Neuschwanstein Castle.

Overseas flight. I know you are busy and tired. Trust me and book the flight out on the evening of your last day at work. Preparation is the key to  surviving long-haul flights . Layout your airplane outfit and have your packed bag by the door ready to go. Zip home after work, change your clothes, wash your face, brush your teeth, and head to the airport. Enjoy a glass of wine and take an original strength Dramamine to sleep on the plane. You will arrive in Germany in time to check into your hotel, see some sites and enjoy a beer before going to bed.

Day 1-3 Berlin Germany

This itinerary begins in Berlin Germany. Arrive as early as possible on Day 1. Take the Airport Express to the Berlin Central Station. An ABC ticket is required to get to the city center. Check into your hotel for 3 nights. Grab an espresso and head to the Berlin Wall Memorial. Follow this 72 Hours in Berlin Germany itinerary and spend the next several days exploring the highlights of Berlin, including, the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Cathedral, Charlottenburg Palace, Reichstag Building, East Side Gallery, and more. If the schedule allows, add a day trip to Potsdam Palaces. Check the Germany Tourism Board for current festivals and events.

READ Complete Germany Travel Guide

Day 4 Dresden Germany

Take the 7 am train from Berlin to Dresden and arrive at 9 am. I do not normally recommend hotels, we all have different price points. I stayed at the Intercity Hotel across from the station and was provided a free transportation card to the city center. No thrills, clean, and super convenient, you might want to check it out. Check into your hotel for 1 night and head to the city center. Follow this 24 Hours in Dresden Germany itinerary to ensure you do not miss Bruhl’s Terrace, Dresden Castle, Frauenkirche, Processions of Princes, and Zwinger Terrace.

Day 5-6 Prague Czech Republic

Take another 7 am train from Dresden to Prague. Arrive at 9:30 and check into your hotel for 4 nights. Be sure to book your hotel for 4 nights (2 days in Prague plus day trips). Spend the day exploring Old Town Square and watch the Astronomical Clock. Be sure to visit Prague Castle, Golden Lane, the Lennon Wall, Dancing Houses, and Malá Strana. Follow this 48 Hours in Prague Czech Republic detailed hour-by-hour itinerary. Check the Czech Republic Office of Tourism for current festivals and events.

READ Complete Czech Republic Travel Guide

Day 7 Cesky Krumlov Czech Republic

Take a day trip to Cesky Krumlov. Cesky Krumlov is an easy day trip from Prague and has all the makings of a fairy tale. The castle overlooks the town of narrow, cobblestone streets curving along the Vltava River, streets are full of frescoed buildings, red rooftops, and rolling green hills. There are many organized tours to Cesky Krumlov that include visiting the castle, a walking tour of the city, and lunch. It is also possible to DIY this trip by booking a train ticket from the Prague Central Train Station to Cesky Krumlov with 1 change in at České Budějovice. The train departs as early as 6 am and arrives at 9 am. It is a 10-minute walk from the train station to the town. Pro Tip: Be sure to bring your passport, the train conductor does ask for it.

Day 8 Karlovy Vary Czech Republic

Take a day trip to Karlovy Vary. Karlovy Vary is a spa town two hours outside of Prague known for its 300+ hot springs of healing water and medical treatments. The city sits along the Teplá River and is full of cobblestone streets and pastel Art Nouveau buildings. The easiest way to DIY this day trip is by a 2-hour bus ride. Buses depart next to the train station. Flixbus leaves Prague at 8:30 am and arrives in Karlovy Vary at 10:40. It is a 10-minute walk to the city center. The return bus leaves at 6:30 pm and arrives in Prague at 8:40pm.

Days 9-10 Krakow Poland

Take the earliest discount flight available from Prague to Krakow Poland (check KLM). Take the airport train to the Kraków Main Train Station. Check into your hotel for 2 nights. I stayed at the PURO Krakow Stare Miastro and it was very convenient. Follow this 48 Hours in Krakow Poland itinerary and spend the next several days exploring Market Square, Wawel Castle, the Jewish Ghetto, and Schindler’s Factory. Book an organized day trip from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp and the Wieliczka Salt Mine for day two. Pro tip: tickets to Schindler’s Factory sell out, be sure to prepurchase. Check the Poland Office of Tourism for current festivals and events.

READ Complete Poland Travel Guide

Days 11-12 Budapest Hungary

Take the earliest discount flight from Krakow to Budapest Hungary (check LOT). Check into your hotel for 2 nights. Follow this 48 Hours in Budapest Hungary itinerary and spend the next several days exploring: walk across the Chain Bridge, tour Parliament Building, check out the view from Fisherman’s Bastion, visit Buda Castle, relax at Szechenyi Thermal Bath, and have a drink in a Ruin Bar. Check the Hungary Office of Tourism for current festivals and events.

READ Complete Hungary Travel Guide

Day 13 Bratislava Slovakia

Train tickets from Budapest to Bratislava are not available online. You must purchase the train ticket from Budapest Nyugati Station to Bratislava Main Station in Budapest. Take the earliest train available. Store your bags outside of the train station on platform 1. Take bus number X13 or a taxi to the city center. Follow this 24 Hours in Bratislava Slovakia itinerary and spend the day wandering the old town. Be sure to visit Bratislava Castle, see the Presidential Palace, and check out the view from the UFO Bridge. Return to the train station, collect your bags, and continue another hour on the train to Vienna. Pro tip: I spent the night in Bratislava, a better use of time is to continue on to Vienna on Day 13 in order to sleep in a little on Day 14.

READ Complete Guide to Slovakia

Days 14-15 Vienna Austria

Arrive in Vienna in the evening and check into your hotel for 3 nights. Follow this 48 Hours in Vienna Austria itinerary and spend the next several days exploring: Spend the next two days visiting the Hofburg Palace, Austrian National Library, Schönbrunn Palace, St. Charles Church, Vienna Opera House, Belvedere Palace, and Hundertwasserhaus. Vienna is the place to indulge, be sure to allow time to sit and relax with chocolate cake at as many outdoor cafes as you can fit into your schedule. Check the Austria Office of Tourism for current festivals and events.

READ Complete Austria Travel Guide

Days 16-17 Salzburg Austria

Leave Vienna on the 6:30 am train to Salzburg and arrive at 9 am Check into the hotel for 3 nights. Follow this 48 hours in Salzburg itinerary to explore the city. Do not miss Hohensalzburg Castle, Mirabell Palace, Residenzplatz, Hellbrunn Palace trick fountains, Salzburg Cathedral, and Sphaera. Pro tip: if you are needing to eliminate a stop, Salzburg is an amazing city and is not the one to cut out.

Day 18 Hallstatt Austria

Take a Day Trip to Hallstatt Austria . Hallstatt is a picture-perfect lakeside Alpine village with half-timber homes climbing up a cliff. Hallstatt’s lake is full of swans, the streets are lined with balconies of flowers and there is a waterfall backdrop to the entire scene. It is possible to DIY this trip but it requires a few connections. You have saved a lot of money DIYing the rest of the trip so splurge on this one. There are several organized tours available based on your preference. I chose the tour that included a trip to the Five Fingers viewing platform in the Alps. There are options that include a trip to a salt mine with a slide or to an ice cave with frozen waterfalls. Pro tip: all locations are on top of the mountain and a long walk from the cable car drop-off, you will need a coat and possibly mittens.

Day 19 Innsbruck Austria

Take the 7 am train from Salzburg to Innsbruck. Check into the hotel for 1 night. Immediately take the shuttle from Innsbruck Hbf to Swarovski Crystal World . Photograph the Giant and explore the Chambers of Wonder. Return to the city at noon and have lunch in a café on Maria-Theresien-Straße, wander the old town and photograph the Golden Roof, visit Hofburg Imperial Palace and Hofkirche Church before taking the Nordkette Cable Car up the mountain for sunset. Here is an itinerary for 24 Hours in Innsbruck Austria .

Day 20-21 Munich Germany

Take the 7:20 am train to Munich. Check into the hotel for 4 nights. Use this 72 Hours in Munich itinerary to spend the next 2 days exploring the city and add a day trip to Dachau Concentration Camp. Be sure to visit Hofbrauhaus, Marienplatz, Munich Residenz, Eisbachwelle, the English Garden, Nymphenburg Palace, Karlsplatz.

Day 22 Nuremberg, Bamberg or Rothenburg Germany

Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Rothenburg Germany are Bavarian fairy tale towns reached from Munich by train. Nuremberg is the second-largest city in Bavaria and is well known for its incredible Christmas markets and infamous Nuremberg trials. Do not miss Konigstrasse, the Imperial Castle, and the city walls when visiting the city. Nuremberg is an easy train ride from Munich, direct trains are 1.5 hours. Here is how to spend a day in Nuremberg Germany

Bamberg is Insta-famous for its Altes Rathaus set in the middle of the river. Do not miss the Bamberg Cathedral, Hofhaltung, Neue Residenz, and Klein Venedig before leaving the city. Bamberg is an easy train ride from Munich, direct trains are 2h 20m. Here is how to spend a day in Bamberg Germany

Rothenburg is Insta-famous for Plönlein Corner. The city is full of half-timbered homes with wooden bay windows and turrets, red rooftop views from the city walls and towers, metal signage, and year around Christmas. A DIY day trip to Rothenburg from Munich by train requires at least one train change, takes 5+ hours, and is expensive. I chose to book an organized day trip that included a stop at Harburg Castle. It was a long day on a bus but I’m glad I did it. Here is how to spend a day in Rothenburg Germany

Day 23 Neuschwanstein Castle

Is Neuschwanstein Castle on your bucket list? This castle is one the most recognized in the world thanks to Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. The visit includes 2 castles, a waterfall, and an alpine lake. The town at the bottom of the hill is super cute and worth a look as well. This is at the end of your journey and chances are high you will be tired, tours to Neuschwanstein Castle are available from Munich. To DIY this trip, first, take a train from Munich Hbf to Füssen. Trains run hourly and it is a 2.5-hour ride. Next, take bus 73 or 78 from Füssen to Hohenschwangau, this is a 10-minute ride. Now switch to a private bus up the hill to the castle, then walk about 15 minutes to the entrance. Pro tip: it might seem like a good idea to walk up the hill. Be aware it is a 45-60 minute walk and parts of the hill are steep. Your entrance ticket is timed and if you miss your time you won’t be allowed in. Actually, you might be allowed in if you swallow your pride and cry (like I did), but the ticket person is very stern. Here is how to plan a Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

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Great post! Thanks for these great travel information!

First I thought the 24 days itinerary is perfect for us. Then you said make it to 27 days with additional trip to Romania. This is really helpful for us that plans a trip to Germany but not sure where else to go.

Like most of us in the world. Europe has been on my list for years. I meet many people in the course of work and I find the Polish very gentle and upfront. So that for sure is on my list. Romania too for its folk tales and tradiions. Actually, this itinerary really helps in making this a structured visit.

That’s great to hear! I hope you are able to plan your trip soon

We spent 6 weeks travelling in Central Europe and your list shows me there are so many reasons we need to go back. Germany as a whole is a big missing hole in our travel history. And the eastern region has been on our wish list for a long while. Good to know this region is well served by trains. What a great itinerary you have set out.

Great travel ideas! Since I live in Europe, I have been to all these seven Eastern and Western countries, to some even many times, so I know them very well. Famous for historic capitals, cozy little towns, and picturesque nature with mountains, seas, and lakes, these beautiful countries are favorite travel destinations for many.

This is such a great itinerary especially to people traveling to Europe for the first time. It is hard navigate with what to see when there are so many amazing places. Just Germany alone is lovely! I hope the world opens up soon again and we can all plan these fabulous trips.

Very informational post and beautiful itinerary! Oh, how I wish I could spend 23 days in Europe now! Some of these Central European countries are absolutely marvelous, yet not so many people know about them. Like Slovakia, the Czech Republic, or Hungary, for example. I also believe Dresden is one of the most underrated cities in Germany. It deserves so much more popularity than it gets. Hope we’ll be able to resume our travels soon.

I agree, I don’t hear much about Dresden and it’s a great city.

I have not spent as much time in Central Europe as I’d like to! Germany was such an amazing country to visit (LOVE the food) but I would love to visit any of these destinations. Saving this itinerary for the future!

Be sure to bookmark this, it will help with future planning for sure

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Top 18 BEST Places to Visit in Central Europe

A lot of people, while planning for Europe trip only consider Paris , London ,and Rome . One major reason for such oversight is that these places are hotspots and have been ingrained in the minds of people courtesy a lot of romcoms and novels set there. However, Europe has much more to offer than just that.

One such overlooked region of Europe in Central Europe. Comprising of Austria , Czech Republic , Germany , Hungary , Liechtenstein , Poland , Slovakia , Slovenia , and Switzerland , this region is brimming with natural beauty, culture, and history.

Dominated by the Alps, the heart of Europe can mesmerize anyone with its mountains, mirrors like lakes, virgin forest cover, old castle towns, extravagant market squares, and the glittering remnants of ancient Roman cities.

Here are some places to visit in Central Europe listed below that will make your journey an unforgettable and memorable one.

Table of Contents

Prague, Czech Republic

Nested in the romantic embrace of the riverbed and the old charming bridges, the Czech Republic’s capital Prague is one of the most impressive and well-preserved cities in the world and in Central Europe. Rich in history with remarkable architecture and rustic cobblestone streets, Prague is a city of joy for those who love history and culture .

While on the one hand there is an ornate church of St. Nicholas, six century-old Charles Bridge, and the oldest working astronomical clock Orloj, the city also has an amazing nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants to visit making it one of the best places to visit in Central Europe.

Prague will put a spell on you with the aroma of tasty food and classical music reverberating through the air.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Prague, Czech Republic

Vienna, Austria

With an exhilarating legacy of artists like Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss, and Schubert, Vienna is a city of melodious music and architectural marvels in Austria . Situated on the banks of the charming Danube river, Vienna gives away its historical past via its imperial buildings whilst acting as a bridge between West and East Europe for centuries.

It exudes a charm of its own, which is a result of a remarkable blend of old and new. The pluralistic environment, coffee houses, imperial feel, a famous horse-cab ride, and a leisurely walk along the clean street make for a perfect vacation spot .

Where to stay: Best hotels in Vienna, Austria

Munich, Germany

Soaked in its medieval charm, the city of Munich effortlessly blends tradition and modernity. The fashionable and chic coexist in this city of beer and bratwurst famous for Oktoberfest. The Bavarian capital, with the Alps in its background and turbulent Issar coursing through, is a technology capital of Germany .

Home to BMW Welt, Microsoft, and Siemens, the city offers art galleries, dynastic palaces, medieval churches, nightclubs, old theatres, cafes, and beer gardens. The three magnificent Pinakothek art galleries are emblematic of ancient periods of historian art, Frauenkirche twin towers add class and regality to the skyline of the city.

While the Residenz maintains the heritage vibrant and giving Munich top rank as one of the best places to travel in Central Europe. Places to see in Munich are Deutsche Museum, Olympia Park, Peterskirche, and Schloss Nymphenburg.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Munich, Germany

Check out this tour in Munich: An Evening of Bavarian Beer and Food Culture Tour!

Budapest, Hungary

Tourists flock to this alluring place because of the wide range of activities that are available to do here. Budapest is a place that has something for everyone, from a dramatic past and glamorous architecture to warm waters and great nightlife giving Budapest, Hungary one of the top places to visit in Central Europe.

From spas, cafes, museums to the beautiful and memorable views from the Chain Bridge, one can never get tired of wandering through this beautiful city .

Where to stay: Best hotels in Budapest, Hungary

Check out this tour in Budapest: Walking Tour of Buda Castle with a Historian .

Zurich, Switzerland

Among the top places to travel in Central Europe, the city of Zurich is a perfect combination of nature’s beauty and smart urban life. Zurich, Switzerland is culturally vivacious with efficient administration and is charmingly set at the meeting of the lake and river.

Much of its attraction comes from its being an ancient center and attracts a lot of history lovers. However, the city also provides several activities, from distant tours and sightseeing to an awesome nightlife. The town has amazingly dealt with the latest trends, like the conversion of old factories into cultural centers.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Zurich, Switzerland

Check out this tour in Zurich: 4-Hour City Tour by Ferry, Cable Car, and Coach Tour.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, Austria is a home to mesmerizing castles and amazing museums sharing its border with Germany. With a touch of a little bit of romance, Salzburg is definitely not an ordinary city. The city of Salzburg has it all, from views of the Eastern Alps to a great musical memoir.

With some amazing places to explore in Central Europe, Salzburg can truly make your vacation a memorable and unforgettable one. One of the best things to see if you are a history lover is the open-air museum viz Salzburger Freilichtmuseum. For the shopaholic, Getreidegasse is the place you should head to, which has everything from old classic shops to the trendy ones.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Salzburg, Austria

Krakow, Poland

Situated near the border of the Czech Republic, Krakow is a southern Polish city . This city is famous for its well-preserved core of medieval times as well as Jewish quarters. The city of Krakow , despite its popularity, is one of the cheapest cities in Europe.

If you are a lover of fairytale architecture , stunning countryside, castles , insane desserts, and a great history, Krakow becomes a must-visit for you.

Some of the places that will steal your heart away are:

• The incredible Kazimierz neighborhood is one of the best places you can start your adventures from
• St. Francis’ Basilica is an amazing church which will make you fall in love with itself
• The abandoned St. Benedict’s Fort, built in the 19th century, is an incredible monolith named after the nearby church of St. Benedict

Where to stay: Best hotels in Krakow, Poland

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is not only the capital city of Slovenia but also one of Europe’s greenest and vivacious capitals. It is mainly famous for its green space as well as the university population. This city can also be called Slovenia’s Master of Modern and, at the same time, features its early minimalist design.

Some of the amazing places one must visit when here are:

• Prešeren Square – a place where the city gathers and celebrate
• Ljubljana Castle , if you are really enthusiastic, you may get up there on foot, or else opt for a tourist train
• Ljubljana Cathedral

Where to stay: Best hotels in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Check out this tour in Ljubljana: Walk around the historical city center and Admire Ljubljana’s Attractions and Art in a 2 hours tour!

Füssen, Germany

Most of the tourists overlook this amazing place in Germany . Fussen is a small town situated north of the Austrian border. The basic thing one could do when in Fussen is to roam around freely on the streets of Oldtown. Some of the tourist spots of Fussen are a Gothic castle, Hohes Schloss, Museum of St. Mang’s, etc.

The high castle of Fussen is indeed a blessing to admire for the tourists. One may also drive along the romantic road, as Fussen is situated at the southern end of Germany’s most infamous scenic routes , the Romantic Road, it offers a great advantage to the tourists to explore the other places driving through this road.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Füssen, Germany

Warsaw, Poland

For Warsaw , the term phoenix, which rose from the ashes, is the aptest one as this place was nearly destroyed during WWII. This amazing place has a diverse architecture from the old market square to the modern days’ New Towns.

Warsaw also offers some of the beautiful outdoor places to the visitors such as Krasiński Garden, palace, and parklands at Wilanów and a walk beside the Vistula River, which can never be missed. If you think the architecture , culture, and outdoor spaces are the only attractions in Warsaw , then you are in for a surprise.

Warsaw is also culinary heaven to the visitors who are on the lookout for something to tantalize their taste buds making it a must put destination to your list of places to visit in Central Europe.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Warsaw, Poland

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is a fortified town situated on Montenegro ‘s Adriatic coast. This beautiful place lies between the gloomy mountains and a moody corner of the bay. This place is amongst one of the most dramatic places in the world where the past exists with the present. The city has a lot to offer even after being such a small place.

Some of the must-do things when in Kotor are:

• Visit the beautiful village Perast, situated on the edge of the bay that has existed for about 1000 years
• Lady of The Rocks built near the Bay of Kotor
• For the party enthusiasts, don’t forget the Blue Cave Tour, that cruises the Adriatic Sea

Where to stay: Best hotels in Kotor, Montenegro

Check out this tour in Kotor: Boat Tour: Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula and Blue Cave

Oswiecim, Poland

Oswiecim is a town situated in the Southern part of Poland. This city is mainly a quiet, average-sized industrial city on the border with Matopolska. The city is famous for its Memorial as well as the museum Auschwitz-Birkenau which is also a former WWII concentration camp that has preserved gas chambers and artifacts.

There is also an Auschwitz Jewish Center, which is basically a museum that commemorates the Jewish community’s flourishment from the 16th century till WWII. The place also has one more museum named Zamek Museum that displays local Catholic and Jewish artifacts and is located in a medieval castle on a hilltop.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Oswiecim, Poland

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a city situated in the southern part of Croatia , facing the Adriatic Sea. This city has so much beauty to offer to its visitors that it becomes immaterial whether you are visiting Dubrovnik for the first time or for the hundredth time; this city never fails to awe you.

Dubrovnik is mainly famous for its distinctive old town and well-preserved buildings such as St. Blaise Church, Gothic Rector’s Palace, and also a history museum.

Since one of the famous TV shows’ Games of Thrones’ was shot here in large parts, the city’s fabulous architecture is now no more a hidden gem and certainly one of the famous places to visit in Central Europe. Visitors flocked this city just to see “King’s Landing,” “Qarth” and the gardens of the “Red Keep” in reality.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Check out this tour in Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik: Admire its ancient city walls and many of its architectural treasures in a 2-Hour Walking Tour !

Nesvizh, Belarus

Nesvizh is a city that is the administrative center of Nyasvizh District in Belarus and also has Niasviž Castle, which is one of the World Heritage Site and must-visit places in Central Europe.

Niasviž Castle in the 16th century was the residence of Radzivill dukes along with a Corpus Christi Church. Most of the tourists come to see the heritage Castle and miss the beauty of another great landmark that is the City Hall which is highly informative, interesting as well as helpful.

Apart from these two landmarks, Slutsk Gate is another great sight one can visit when in Nesvizh, it is basically a city gate built around the 1700s. These are some of the landmarks one cannot afford to miss.

Melnik, Bulgaria

With steep sandstone pyramids that form a grand backdrop in the small city of Melnik, this city is located around 20km north of the Bulgaria – Greece border. Although the city of Melnik is small, it still offers a lot of fun activities for its visitors.

Some of the things to do are:

• Visit Rozhen Monastery that is located 6 km outside the city of Melnik, in a small village of Rozhen
• Villa Melnik winery with about 75 acres of vineyards
• Melnik Pyramids are one of the most famous things that describe the history of Melnik. They can be seen easily from the roadside on your way to Rohzen Monastery.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Melnik, Bulgaria

Kitzbühel, Austria

Kitzbühel is a small elevated town in the east of Innsbruck, located in the western Austrian province of Tyrol. It is basically a fashionable winter resort, famous for the yearly Hahnenkamm downhill race. This place has all the advantages a small town can have.

Some of the major destinations one should never miss when in Kitzbühel are:

• Alpine Flower Garden is one of the most attractive tourist’s spots in summers and has over 300 species of alpine flowers
• If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can start your adventure from The Brixental Cycle Path
• To people who are less active and avoid adventures can just roam around and enjoy a shopping session or a coffee in the center of the town

Where to stay: Best hotels in Kitzbühel, Austria

Prizren, Kosovo

Prizren is probably the comeliest city in Kosovo and is also known as the ‘Museum City.’ For this preparing the itinerary of the best places to see in Central Europe and especially if you are a history buff, Prizren would be a great treat to your eyes and camera.

Situated on the banks of the Lumbardhi river and by the beautiful slopes of Sharr mountains, this city is the main attraction to all the tourists visiting Kosovo .

Some of the fun activities one can do when in Prizren are:

• Gazing at the amazing view from the Prizren Fortress of the city as well as the surrounding hills
• For all the adventure lovers, you can hike in the ranges of Sharr Mountains
• Sharr Mountain National Park is one the best tourist attraction of the city
• Visit the beautiful Sinan Pasha mosque
• Pictures at the Old Stone Bridge will surely bless your social media feed

Where to stay: Best hotels in Prizren, Kosovo

Sighişoara, Transylvania, Romania

Sighisoara is a small city located in the region of Transylvania of Romania with a great history that dates back to the 12th century. Every nook and corner of this city has something artistic to offer to its visitors. The German artisans took this region and made it into an amazing fortified city right in the heart of Romania .

There is no doubt why Sighisoara is listed as the UNESCO World Heritage site . From cobbled streets and colorful buildings to an Old Town, this place will totally make you fall in love with itself all over again. Add Sighisoara to your list of places to visit in Central Europe and experience the history of Dracula first hand.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Sighişoara, Transylvania, Romania

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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The Americas may hold some powerful and intriguing nations, and Asia is definitely incredibly diverse and interesting, but when it comes to beauty, Europe remains incomparable.

If you’re planning that much-anticipated trip, Central Europe remains a wonderful option. Whether it’s Vienna or Lucerne, you’ll find everything you could dream of, from culture and history to activities and beautiful natural landscapes. Below is a list of some favourite spots beckoning discovery and following all the safety measures , currently required for travel.

1. Zell am See, Austria

Zell am See is a beautiful, quaint town built on the banks of Lake Zell . This amazing place offers you watersports and sunbathing in summer and mountain skiing and hiking in winters, hiking all year round. Romanesque St. Hippolyte’s Church is one of the town’s attraction you will want to visit when in Zell am See.

2. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, with its beautiful Ljubljana river and the greenery that surrounds it, is one of the most scenic places to visit in Central Europe. A big part of it is its nightlife when the city comes alive with its pubs and clubs, making it a popular destination for the youngsters. The Ljubljana Castle is an important landmark and a fine example of the gorgeous architecture that Ljubljana is known for.

3. Heidelberg, Germany

The oldest town in Germany, Heidelberg is home to the gorgeous Baroque Altstadt and is bound to steal your hearts. Its lush green spaces and riversides living offers you the most appealing environment to relax into. Walking through the town and soaking up the atmosphere is most memorable, and as the sun sets, you’re welcomed by the side-street restaurants. But Heidelberg has other appealing features. For example, if you are a student studying for the PANCE exam , visiting hospitals in Heidelberg, including University Hospital Heidelberg which ranks among the top hospitals in Europe, would be a very useful and most informative.

4. Bratislava, Slovakia

The capital city of Slovakia , Bratislava is also one of the smallest cities to discover and so surprisingly beautiful. Its old architecture gives it a gothic feel and brings its history to life. Situated on the banks of the Danube, Bratislava is known for several things including its bars, cafes, and shopping boutiques. The place really is heaven for shopaholics and a river cruise is obligatory.

5. Lucerne, Switzerland

Switzerland holds some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes and train rides through the Swiss Alps brings you fairytale scenery. If you’re travelling to Switzerland, you might want to visit Lucerne , a city surrounded by lakes and mountains. The city has a lot of history and if you wish to discover it, a guided walking tour is recommended. Visit neoclassical Sammlung Rosengart, a museum that houses several of Picasso’s masterpieces, Hofkirche St. Leodegar that dates back to the 15th century and the Musegg Wall, which was built in the 13th century.

Read my blog post – Lucerne, Switzerland. More than a lake, mountains and historic bridges . 

Safe transportation

In these tough COVID influenced times, travelling by public transport can impose a huge risk to your and your family’s health. Once you get to your chosen destination, most people would prefer to travel by taxi or bus, since they’re cheaper. But with your health the focus, it may be advisable to rent a car and drive yourself. This will require you to have an international driver’s license, which isn’t too difficult to get and is presented in 10 languages and allows you to drive across 150 countries and 6 continents.

Central Europe is one of the most beautiful places to be visited, with Zell am See in Austria, Ljubljana in Slovenia, Heidelberg in Germany, Bratislava in Slovakia, and Lucerne in Switzerland recommended.

Central Europe offers a plethora of options and experiences to indulge in. All you need is to be a little cautious keeping the COVID situation in mind.

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Must-see attractions in Central Europe

Stiftsbibliothek

Northeastern Switzerland

If the greatest masterpieces on earth are wrought for the glory of God, St Gallen’s Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), is like a living prayer. Religious…

Jungfraujoch

Bernese Oberland

This is the big one. At 3454m above sea level, Jungfraujoch is Europe’s highest train station: a once-in-a-lifetime trip, with views of the deeply…

Museumsinsel

Museumsinsel & Alexanderplatz

Walk through ancient Babylon, meet an Egyptian queen, clamber up a Greek altar or be mesmerized by Monet's ethereal landscapes. Welcome to Museumsinsel …

Neues Museum

For over 60 years, not a soul was able to visit Berlin’s Neues Museum – in fact, it sat in ruins. But today it’s one of the city’s most celebrated…

Pergamonmuseum

The Pergamonmuseum is one of Berlin’s most visited historical gems and perhaps also its most controversial. This museum offers an archaeological time-warp…

Swiss National Park

The Engadine

When an environmentally on-the-ball land like Switzerland has just one national park, you can bet it’s a good one. Huddled away in the far southeast of…

Aletsch Glacier

If ever a view in Switzerland is going to leave you dumbstruck (and there are a few great ones to choose from!), it will surely be the infinite swoop of…

East Side Gallery

Friedrichshain

The East Side Gallery is the embodiment of Berlin’s grit and guts.

Château de Chillon

If ever a castle could fit the fairy-tale bill, the dashingly handsome Château de Chillon would be it, with its moat, double ramparts and riot of turrets…

Triglav National Park

Sitting at a view-enhanced elevation of 1611m, this mountain pass is about 13km southwest of Kranjska Gora, via a storied road that zigzags madly and…

Fernsehturm

Germany's tallest structure, the TV Tower is a Berlin icon.

Topographie des Terrors

Historic Mitte

This compelling exhibit tells stories of terror and persecution in Nazi Germany.

St Vitus Cathedral

Built over a time span of almost 600 years, St Vitus is one of the most richly endowed cathedrals in central Europe. It is pivotal to the religious and…

Malbork Castle

Gdańsk & Pomerania

Malbork’s blockbuster attraction is its show-stoppingly massive castle sitting on the banks of the sluggish Nogat River, an eastern arm of the Vistula…

Charles Bridge

Malá Strana

Strolling across Charles Bridge is everybody’s favourite Prague activity. However, by 9am it’s a 500m-long fairground, with an army of tourists squeezing…

Wieliczka Salt Mine

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Museum of WWII

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Central Europe Travel Guide: Plan Your Visit

Central Europe has quite quickly become one of the most popular regions to travel on the continent. Travelling in this dynamic region is met with the same ease as those countries further to the west but can offer some more offbeat and budget-friendly destinations, which is why this Central Europe travel guide is necessary. Most of the countries comprising this region were under Communist regimes until the early nineties, giving it a history and culture that is unique to its more western counterparts.

For the purposes of this guide, we will be concentrating on the countries of Austria, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland.

If you’re after travel information on Croatia , Slovenia , or Serbia , be sure to check out our Balkan travel guide which will lead you to all of the information we have on those respective countries and the region as a whole.

Disclaimer: This guide contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our  privacy policy.

Table of Contents

Central European Countries

Central Europe can be an ambiguous term that has a few definitions in the region. While some may consider the countries of Czechia, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia to be “Eastern Europe,” it is far more politically correct and polite to refer to them as “Central Europe” instead.

Regardless if you want to visit Austria or any of the four aforementioned countries, there is no denying that you’re bound to have a wonderful time exploring this gorgeous and historic area of the continent.

If you already know where you want to visit in this incredible region, then make sure to browse our country-specific articles and guides.

Planning a Central Europe Route

A typical route through Central Europe covers the capital cities from Vienna to Prague to Krakow to Budapest. And while there is absolutely nothing wrong with this itinerary, it does skip over all of the smaller cities and towns and lovely natural areas that lie in between these metropolises.

Whether you want to find the perfect multi-country route or are trying to narrow down which cities you should include or not on your trip, browse the articles below to help you plan the ultimate Central European adventure for your own travel style!

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Poland Itinerary

Prague or Krakow or Budapest: Which City to Visit?

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Austria Itinerary

Salzburg or Vienna: Which Austrian City to Visit?

The Ultimate 2 Week Central Europe Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Day Czech Republic Itinerary

Places to Visit in Central Europe

The goal of this guide is to help you plan the perfect trip to Central Europe and to get the most out of every destination that you visit. There are so many incredible places to see, dynamic cities to explore and beautiful nature to lose yourself in.

If you’re wondering where to go in Central Europe and what to do while you’re there, you’re in luck. We’ve explored the region in-depth and don’t plan to stop any time soon.

If you’re looking for a detailed city guide or just want some inspiration on our favourite destinations in the region, have a look at the articles below to kick-start your planning.

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Salzburg Itinerary

The Perfect Day Trip to Salzburg from Vienna

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Innsbruck Itinerary

The Ultimate One Day in Hallstatt Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Vienna Itinerary

The Perfect One Day in Graz Itinerary

12 Best Things To Do in Olomouc: A One-Day Itinerary

The Ultimate 3 to 4 Days in Prague Itinerary

Karlovy Vary Day Trip from Prague: A One Day Itinerary

The Perfect One Day in Cesky Krumlov Itinerary

Jeseniky Mountains Travel Guide: Things to Do & Where to Stay

Ostrava Travel Guide: Things To Do, Restaurants & Places To Stay

Hungary & Slovakia

10 Things To Do In Pecs, Hungary: A One-Day Itinerary

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Budapest Itinerary

Planning a Bratislava Day Trip from Vienna

The Perfect One Day in Poznan Itinerary

The Perfect 1 to 2 Days in Wroclaw Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Gdansk Itinerary

Warsaw or Krakow: Which Polish City to Visit?

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Warsaw Itinerary

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Krakow Itinerary

Best Time to Visit Central Europe

Like pretty much everywhere else on the continent, Central Europe experiences five distinct seasons.

The winters can be cold and snowy whereas the summers are hot and muggy. Spring and Autumn tend to both have mild weather, but can be rainy and chilly at times. You might also experience some beautiful and unseasonably warm days if you travel during these times of year as well.

If you’re planning on travelling to Central Europe during the summer, keep in mind that the months of July and August can get very crowded in Central Europe so you’ll likely have to plan and book your trip further in advance.

Summers can also get very warm in most Central European cities, and it’s rare to have air conditioning in your accommodation. If they have the means, many locals tend to flock to the mountains or seaside during particularly warm spells, so these areas can also be quite crowded.

Arguably the best time to travel to Central Europe is in the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to November. During these seasons, the weather is milder and the tourist crowds are considerably fewer.

Read More: The Essential Guide to Visiting Prague in Winter

Often, as well, accommodation and attraction prices can be reduced. Because there is less demand in general, you will also have a bit more room to be flexible in your itinerary. Another advantage of the shoulder season is that it lets you experience some of the great student towns in the region while the students are actually around!

There are some advantages to travelling during winter, with many cities in Central Europe having world Christmas markets as well as some fantastic and affordable skiing — especially in the High Tatras in Slovakia.

While the weather is very cold, travelling to Central Europe in winter is easily the cheapest season to visit the region. Because the tourist demand is low, accommodation and attractions costs will likely be discounted, but you may find that some things do not operate during the offseason. 

All in all, there is no absolute answer for the best season to travel in Central Europe, but if you want decent weather combined with a lack of tourist crowds, then visiting the region during the shoulder seasons is probably your best bet.

Cost of Travelling to Central Europe

Planning a Central Europe budget can be a daunting task, however, the region tends to be noticeably less expensive when compared to Western Europe. It is very easy to travel in this region while maintaining even the most strict of budgets, while there is ample opportunity to spend top dollar should you wish.

Accommodation costs can be quite affordable if staying in hostels or in a private room of a locally run guesthouse or hostel.

Food, again, can vary depending on your budget. If you plan on only cooking your own meals or relying on street food, you can eat quite well and prices will generally increase from there, depending on your habits.

One thing you can absolutely do on the cheap anywhere in Central Europe is drink! The Czech Republic especially is famous for its pilsners and, in many countries in Central Europe, a bottle of local beer in the shop will often time cost less than a bottle of water.

Although these prices are enough to turn the strictest teetotallers into alcoholics, please make sure to pace yourself and drink responsibly!

Is Krakow Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Krakow

Is Vienna Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Vienna

Is Prague Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Prague

How Much Will A Central Europe Trip Cost?

Is Budapest Expensive? A Budapest Trip Cost Guide

Currency in Central Europe

Despite all of these countries being in the European Union, only Slovakia and Austria use the Euro. The Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland all still use their own currencies: Koruna, Forint, and Zloty respectively. This can make it tricky when trying to remember the exchange rate for each country, but using a mobile app like XE that you can also download offline if you don’t have a local SIM or international data plan can help.

Luckily though, unlike travelling the Balkans, these currencies are easier to exchange outside of their respective countries if you do get stuck with some leftover money after leaving! It is, however, good practice to try and make sure you use all of the coins because these are nearly impossible to exchange.

Also, avoid changing money in either the airport or a busy tourist centre because the exchange rate in these places is usually poor and you will end up losing a significant amount of money.

We suggest only withdrawing a couple of days worth of cash at a time in order to avoid having to exchange anything. Make sure you have a debit card without ATM or foreign transaction fees and this will also end up saving you some money.

ATMs are prevalent throughout Central Europe, even in the more rural areas so you shouldn’t have a problem. Many places also have credit card facilities, but it is always good practice to carry at least some cash on you just in case the place you’re visiting doesn’t accept cards.

You will notice that in the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland some shops and restaurants will accept Euros in the tourist areas however it’s best to avoid paying in Euros as they will almost always give you an inferior exchange rate. It would also probably be best to avoid these places altogether, as they tend to be tourist traps.

Central European Cuisine

One of the highlights of travelling in Central Europe is sampling the local cuisine. Generally speaking, food varies little between the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia, but Hungary, due to its Magyar rather than Slavic influence, has its own unique cuisine.

Dishes like pierogi (delicious potato and cheese dumplings), potato pancakes, cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat, buckwheat groats, sauerkraut, all topped with sour cream are commonplace throughout Central Europe, though they may be called by different names depending on the country.

Hungarian cuisine is defined by paprika and peppers, with notable dishes including chicken paprikash, goulash, and the popular street snack of langos. Food in Hungary can be quite a bit more flavourful and “spicy” compared to the rest of Central Europe so it can be a welcome break from the bland world of boiled potatoes!

Transportation in Central Europe

The most convenient way to get around Central Europe is to use the extensive train network. It’s worth booking in advance for popular routes such as night trains as tickets can be considerably cheaper. During your trip, it’s worth also considering getting around using buses as whilst less scenic and comfortable than trains, they can be significantly cheaper.

To book buses or trains, we recommend looking at Omio where you can see timetables and routes available and book the best one for you. Booking buses through Flixbus can also be a great option as they have numerous affordable routes throughout Central Europe.

If you plan on using the train a lot during your trip to Central Europe, it can be worth looking into purchasing an Interrail pass or a Eurail pass depending on what your country of residence is.

If you want to visit a more rural or off-beat destination while travelling in Central Europe, then it can be worth renting a car. While the bus and train networks reach most places throughout all the countries in the region, the farther off the tourist trail you get the transit becomes more infrequent.

Rather than be at the mercy of erratic bus and train timetables, it can be a better value for your time to have your own means of transport. However, if you’re sticking to the bigger cities in Central Europe, a rental car isn’t really necessary.

Public transport in cities is extensive, affordable, and relatively easy to navigate. It can be helpful to stop by the tourist information office in whichever city you’re visiting and pick up a paper map. While this may seem outdated, sometimes popular navigation systems like Google maps don’t have accurate information about all of the public transport routes available to you.

Accommodation in Central Europe

Accommodation is widespread throughout the region and finding a place to sleep is easy in this region. Most capital cities have dozens of budget accommodation options making it a fantastic area for any backpacker. As for smaller cities, most have at least one hostel and, if not, Airbnb is always a viable option.

If you’re travelling on a higher budget, you will also be spoilt for choice in Central Europe. Most areas have some fantastic accommodation options, ranging from chic boutique hotels to family-run B&Bs.

One thing to keep in mind is if you happen to be travelling in the high season (June-August), make sure you book a bed at least a week in advance. Many of the capital cities get quite popular in the summer months and demand for accommodation, obviously, surges with this.

If you’re planning to visit Budapest while on your Central European adventure (and you should!), then it can also be tricky to figure out which side of the city best suits your needs. Have a look at the article below to help you make the best decision.

8 Best Areas to Stay in Prague For Tourists

Buda or Pest? Where to Stay in Budapest

Language in Central Europe

Polish, Czech and Slovak are all Slavic languages that have common words and phrases with Russian and many Balkan languages. The Hungarian language, however, has completely different roots to its neighbours and can, therefore, be quite difficult to pronounce and speak for western language speakers. The native language spoken in Austria is German.

English is widely spoken in Central Europe, particularly by the younger generation, and you generally shouldn’t run into much trouble communicating, particularly in larger and student cities. However, as you venture away from bigger tourist centres, the language barrier might become a slight issue. In more rural areas, English isn’t as widely spoken as in the cities.

A helpful tip to combat this is to use the Google Translate app which even allows you to download languages offline. As always, locals will appreciate it if you learn a few words of the local language and it will go a long way to enriching your experience!

Religion in Central Europe

Most countries in Central Europe have deep Christian roots, however, their modern-day observance varies dramatically. Poland is one of the most religious countries in Europe, with a large majority of Poles identifying themselves as Catholic. Slovakia and Hungary also both have Catholic majorities with Protestant minorities and in the case of Hungary, there is also a significant Jewish population — one of the largest in present-day Europe.

Because of the strong Catholic influence, you might find that many shops, restaurants, and attractions are closed on Sundays. Be aware of this and plan accordingly and it shouldn’t hinder your Central Europe trip in the slightest.

In the Czech Republic, the largest majority of people identify themselves as having no religion, however, there are still Catholic and Protestant minorities.

Hopefully, this travel guide will help you to plan the ideal trip to the region. The countries of Austria, Czechia, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia all have so much to offer visitors and they are very much worth exploring in depth.

35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)

A complex, interesting, beautiful city is among the most remarkable kinds of places we can experience in our lifetimes, and there’s no doubt that the best cities to visit in Europe rank among the absolute best in the world.

There’s something magical about cities: the best ones have a life all their own, made up of the millions of moments lived and stories told in (and about) them each and every day.

I truly believe that there’s a city for every personality when traveling, even for those who don’t consider themselves “city people”, so to speak, in their day-to-day lives.

Once upon a time, we didn’t think we loved cities… and then we fell in love with traveling.

We’ve since moved to Europe, and picked a beautiful city (Lisbon) as our home base.

We’ve rounded up the best cities to visit in Europe, from the absolute icons to smaller gems tucked in quiet(er) corners of the continent.

No matter what kind of European city you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

Table of Contents

Once You Narrow Down Your Dream Cities in Europe…

The most iconic cities to visit in europe, other best cities to visit in europe (that are slightly less iconic), best small cities to visit in europe, more cool cities to add to your europe bucket list.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

If you’re ready to start planning your trip in more detail after reading this guide to the best cities in Europe, consider checking out our guide to planning a trip to Europe next!

We also have a detailed guide to train travel in Europe , a guide to the best European road trips , several packing lists for Europe , and a roundup of the best travel tips for Europe here on Our Escape Clause that might help kickstart your general planning.

In addition, we’ve also written about most of these European cities in more detailed guides!

We’ll link relevant blog posts throughout this list of the best cities to visit in Europe, if you’re curious about our coverage of any particular city, you can use the search bar in the top right corner of the site to see what we’ve written.

These cities almost need no introduction: woven into our collective culture, from books to movies to historical stories, the most iconic cities to visit in Europe are certainly all well worth the trip to reach them. 

As one of the most visited cities on the planet, Paris tops plenty of Europe bucket lists around the world, and even travel bucket lists more generally.

Home to the iconic Eiffel Tower, the world’s largest art museum at the Louvre (not to mention the hundreds of other incredible museums in Paris), legendary cuisine, and plenty of other highlights like Notre Dame, Montmartre , and the beloved banks of the Seine, Paris is absolutely one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

The capital of the United Kingdom and once the seat of the most powerful empire in the world, London is positively packed with an interesting history and iconic sites.

However, London also feels like an extremely modern city, allowing for visitors to put together an excellent London bucket list that includes historical attractions like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square , right alongside the bustling Theatre District (London has one of the best theater scenes in the world).

Plus, for millennials like us, London is home to the Harry Potter Studio Tour and plenty of other related sights–not to mention plenty of Harry Potter-themed gifts and souvenirs to shop for!.

It’s a close race, but on more days than not, we consider Rome to be our absolute favorite city in the world.

Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome has a captivating quality of impressing upon you its endurance, its consistency, and its strength with every street explored and monument admired.

Home to icons like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain as well as equally impressive spots that are nearly devoid of tourists, exploring Rome, and peeling back its layers one by one, can easily be a lifelong project.

Gaudi, beaches, and the Gothic Quarter : unique and fascinating Barcelona is an incredibly popular place to kick off European adventures!

With its colorful neighborhoods, coastal location, thriving city center, and utterly unique architecture, it’s not hard to see why.

Of course, the most famous landmark in Barcelona , its basilica La Sagrada Familia, remains incomplete: construction began in 1882 and is currently projected to wrap up in 2026!

With its stunning architecture primarily dating to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age and its many canals juxtaposed with its modern reputation for partying, visiting Amsterdam can often feel like visiting a city of extremes.

Whichever part of the city appeals to you, Amsterdam is certainly worth visiting .

As one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe and one of the most unique cities in the world, Amsterdam lives up to its reputation as a compelling and incredibly beautiful place to visit.

Want to ditch (some of) the infamous crowds?

Consider bundling up and visiting Amsterdam in winter !

Venice is, without a shadow of doubt, one of the most unique cities in the world–so of course it also ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

Venice’s mere existence is improbable.

Made up of 118 islands divided by 150 canals and then knitted together by 400 footbridges, Venice’s topography is like nowhere else.

Once a powerful empire that controlled the seas all the way to Crete and held the title of the wealthiest city in Europe, Venice’s 13th-century peak can still be felt in certain places today, including in its iconic Piazza San Marco , in its ornate palaces, and along its gorgeous bridges.

Before visiting, we were Venice skeptics–but less than a day into our first trip there, we were completely smitten with Venice.

Now, we can’t imagine that we’ll ever stop going back!

Byzantium, Constantinople, New Rome: Istanbul has had many names throughout its more than 2500 years of history, and today it is celebrated as one of the most unique cities in the world.

With one of the longest and most complicated histories of any of these cities in Europe, Istanbul is actually, technically, only half European.

One half of the city lies on the European continent, and the other half, located an easy ferry ride across the Bosphorus Strait, is located in Asia.

In addition to being able to visit two continents in a single day, the top things to do in Istanbul include touring the phenomenal Hagia Sophia, shopping in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, admiring the Blue Mosque, and enjoying the views from the top of the Galata Tower.

Emphasis on slightly less iconic: these cities are still easily among the most popular cities to visit in Europe.

Unlike some of the longstanding icons above, though, many of these European cities gained (or regained) popularity on the tourism circuit at some point within the last few decades.

In our slightly biased opinion, as it’s one of our personal favorites, Budapest easily ranks among the top ten best cities to visit in Europe.

Set on the Danube, with its iconic Parliament nestled right up against the river and majestic architecture rising on both sides of the river, Budapest is simultaneously incredibly regal and beautiful, and incredibly laid-back and affordable.

Known for its compelling history, thermal baths that dot the city, stunning architecture, and engaging nightlife, there is an overwhelming number of things to do in Budapest !

And, it packs plenty of variety in, too: in Budapest, you can have breakfast in a luxurious coffee shop in the morning, explore the city’s caves and thermal baths in the afternoon, and then relax at a ruin pub in the evening–and that’s just within the first day!

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague absolutely looks the part of the quintessential European city, all ornate buildings framed by a winding river and overlooked by the majestic Prague Castle.

Once known as an offbeat European city to visit, the Prague of today is immensely popular (with the crowds to match, especially during the height of summer), but it is still absolutely magical to visit.

Be sure to meander your way across the Charles Bridge, explore the Prague Castle, admire the Old Town Square, and drink plenty of that famous Czech beer while visiting Prague .

And yes, the legend is true: at some restaurants, the beer is indeed cheaper than water!

Less popular with foreign tourists than colorful Barcelona, but no less captivating, Spain’s capital city is simultaneously regal and relaxed.

Home to incredible sights like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and gorgeous Plaza Mayor, spending a few days in Madrid means having a chance to experience fantastic food, incredible art, and a hearty dose of Spanish culture.

Madrid’s biggest park, El Retiro, is among our favorite urban parks in all of Europe, and definitely belongs on your list of things to do in Madrid !

As the largest city (and airport hub) on the French Riviera, Nice is both busy and beautiful.

In other words, Nice is exactly what you would hope for from a coastal city that boasts one of the most iconic urban beaches in the world!

A visit to Nice practically requires spending some time on the beach and a taking stroll along the picturesque Promenade des Anglais, of course, but there are plenty of other fun things to do in Nice as well.

While you’re there, be sure to climb Castle Hill, check out the Sun Fountain, and enjoy the colorful architecture of the old town.

Nice is also perfectly placed to use as a base for incredible day trips, including to nearby Monaco, Eze, St. Paul de Vence, and Menton.

To be perfectly frank, Athens doesn’t rank among the most beautiful cities in Europe as far as we’re concerned… but it’s still one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

Greece’s capital is often used as a gateway to its (rightfully) famous islands, but the city itself absolutely deserves to be explored as well.

Athens is home to some of the most famous Greek ruins in the world, including the phenomenal Acropolis (where you’ll find the Parthenon) and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Ancient Greece is only the beginning of the story, though!

You’ll also find trendy neighborhoods like Plaka and incredible museums like the National Archaeological Museum when exploring Athens.

And, quite honestly, even if there was nothing else to do there, it would be worth visiting Athens just to eat enormous amounts of Greek food .

If there’s one word that comes to mind for describing Vienna, it’s regal.

From the world-famous opera house to the Hofburg Palace to the glitz and glamour of Vienna’s cafe culture, Vienna gives the impression of wealth, strength, and beauty at every turn.

This is hardly an accident: as the seat of the Hapsburgs for around 600 years, Vienna definitely shows signs of being ruled by a fairly modern empire.

For example, while other European city centers frequently maintain a good portion of their small streets and medieval architecture, wide swaths of Vienna’s were cleared away in favor of wide boulevards and sweeping avenues.

If you’re not sure when to visit Vienna, it’s hard to argue that there’s a better time than during the holiday season.

Not only is the cafe culture particularly lovely when it’s cold outside, but Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the best in Europe , and the perfect way to kick off a Christmas trip in Austria !

Canals, cyclists, and hygge: these are just a few of the delightful things you’ll find in Copenhagen.

Denmark’s capital city is known for its many cyclists, its beautiful canals and picturesque harbor (Nyhavn), and recently, its extreme culture of coziness.

Hygge, a word that means something approximating coziness and contentment, is a large feature of Copenhagen.

Since the word has been popularized in popular culture worldwide, even more travelers flock to Copenhagen not just to snap photos at Nyhavn or determine for themselves if the Little Mermaid Statue is, in fact, as underwhelming as they say, but to experience Danish hygge for themselves.

And, while hygge and a northern climate may not be words that bring “beach trip” to mind, Copenhagen’s picturesque location also makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with beaches !

The capital of Bavaria is definitely known best for one thing on the tourism circuit: its incredible Oktoberfest celebration that draws travelers from across the globe.

Even outside of the annual festival, though, Munich remains one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

While there, check out Marienplatz and the gorgeous Munich Residence, as well as the Nymphenburg Palace and (at least) one of the city’s fun beer gardens.

Munich is also within day-tripping distance of the famous Neuschwanstein Castle , so if you have a few days to spend in the area, consider escaping to the Bavarian countryside for a day!

Germany’s capital city may not be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it is an incredibly interesting one.

It’s well worth experiencing at least a few days in Berlin to get a feel for this unique European city.

Known today primarily for its intense Cold War history and its quirky, artistic culture, Berlin is packed with interesting sights and things to do.

While in Berlin, be sure to check out the famous Brandenburg Gate, see the Reichstag Building, and, of course, see the remains of the Berlin Wall and accompanying memorials.

For great views of the city, consider heading up the Berlin TV Tower, and to see the city’s best museums, head to Museum Island.

Scotland’s stunning capital city is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe and one that captures the adoration and imagination of most who visit it.

With hints of fairytale magic in the air (helped along, no doubt, by the city’s ties to Harry Potter lore), Edinburgh is packed with fun things to do.

During your visit, be sure to stroll down Royal Mile, admire the views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, and enjoy Edinburgh Castle.

Travelers who love the arts may want to plan their visit for August when the Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes over the city.

Fair warning, though: prices in the city absolutely skyrocket during the festival!

If you’re hoping to see a smaller city in Europe, then these cities in Europe might be for you!

In most of these cities, you can enjoy most of the major tourist attractions in only a couple of days or less and/or more or less exclusively tour the city on foot.

As the capital city of Alsace, Strasbourg is a unique delight of a city nestled in northeastern France and is a gateway to the famed Alsace Wine Route, glorious mountains, and the charming, colorful smaller villages of Alsace.

The region of Alsace was once held by Germany, and the result is that in Strasbourg you can find hints of German influences among the French culture, all blended together to create the unique Alsatian culture you will find in the city today.

Croatia’s most famous city has risen to international stardom in recent years, in large part thanks to its role as King’s Landing on Game of Thrones, but this bite-sized coastal city is a magical place to visit even for those who have never seen a single episode of the show.

Dubrovnik’s crown jewel is its intact town walls that still encircle the old town, where you can walk fully around the city, with the terracotta rooftops of Dubrovnik glistening on one side and the shimmering Adriatic Sea on the other.

While visiting Dubrovnik , be sure to also check out the view from Mount Srd, the views from the Lovrijenac Fortress, and, if you’re up for a bit of a physical challenge, a kayaking tour to Lokrum Island!

As the Cradle of the Renaissance and one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, you might expect Florence to be a large city, but no.

Travelers can easily walk the bulk of the historic center, and some of the areas beyond it, in just a couple of days–no other transportation is necessary!

Florence is an endlessly beautiful city, and so packed full of world-class artwork that the city is almost a work of art unto itself.

From the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore to the incredible masterpiece that is Michelangelo’s David to the Ponte Vecchio to all the treasures of the Uffizi Museum, looking at Florence is like looking at Renaissance-era art, architecture and engineering come to life. 

Nestled in southwestern Germany, the small university city of Heidelberg is far from the most popular city to visit in Germany, but it absolutely deserves to make the list.

Set on the beautiful Neckar River and overlooked by the impressive Heidelberg Palace, Heidelberg looks every bit the part of a fairytale-esque small European city.

And it’s not just modern visitors and the students who flock to study at Heidelberg University who understand the magic of Heidelberg: Mark Twain was inspired by the city and spoke of it very fondly after spending a summer living there.

In fact, according to some accounts, the idea for The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn was conceived thanks to the Neckar River.

While that’s partially inaccurate, there’s no doubt that Twain was captivated by the beauty of Heidelberg!

When travelers plan a trip to Slovenia, it’s rare that the charming capital of Ljubljana tops the list of what they hope to see.

And that’s understandable: it’s hard to beat the majesty of Lake Bled, the beauty of Triglav National Park, or the adorable seaside beauty of Piran .

That being said, though, Ljubljana itself is also a great place to spend a couple of days in Slovenia.

Not only is it conveniently located within day-tripping distance of ever-popular Bled, it’s a fun city to experience in its own right.

Home to the lovely Ljubljana Castle, the fascinating street-art-covered neighborhood of Metelkova, the quirky Dragon Bridge, and colorful Preseren Square–not to mention plenty of charming cafes and delicious restaurants–Ljubljana is an easy European city to love.

As the hometown of Mozart and as a city surrounded by hills that are alive with The Sound of Music, charming Salzburg, Austria is easily one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Regardless of whether you choose a sunshine-and-blooming-flower-filled summer trip or a festive Christmas market trip, Salzburg is bound to charm!

Overlooked by the striking Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg is a feast for the eyes.

It’s also home to highlights like the beautiful Mirabell Palace (known, among other things, for its status as a filming location for The Sound of Music), the incredible Salzburg Cathedral, and both Mozart’s Birthplace and later Residence, and is an incredibly fun city to visit.

Located in southern Poland, Krakow is best known on the tourism circuit for its proximity to two things that lay entirely outside the city: Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

While both of those places are worth visiting (and in the case of Auschwitz-Birkenau, arguably very important to experience if you’re in the area and feel up to a very emotional day), the charming city of Krakow itself is also home to interesting sights that make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

Be sure to explore the impressive Wawel Castle as part of your trip to Krakow, as well as St. Mary’s Basilica, Town Hall Tower, and, of course, a milk bar or two to enjoy classic Polish pierogi.

The prettiest city in Belgium (in our opinion, anyway) is bite-sized and beautiful, easy to cover in just a day or two, and absolutely gorgeous from every angle–though if you ask us, its best angle is from the water during a canal cruise.

While visiting Bruges, consider climbing to the top of the Belfry for incredible views, seeking out the beautiful Bonifacius Bridge, enjoying a canal cruise, checking out the colorful Market Square, stopping by the Basilica of Holy Blood, and relaxing at Minnewater Park.

As a small and incredibly popular European city to visit, Bruges can feel crowded at times–but by planning a winter trip , you can experience (somewhat) reduced crowd levels.

It may be a bit of a stretch to include an entire country of roughly 33,000 people on a list of the best cities to visit in Europe, but San Marino is worth making a slight exception for.

Styled as the oldest republic in Europe (founding date: 301 AD) and simultaneously the least-visited country in Europe, San Marino is an absolutely gorgeous (though yes, quite small) country that is entirely surrounded by Italy.

Featuring castle and countryside views from Mount Titano that are worthy of any fairytale and very interesting history (you can stroll right into Parliament to check it out–no tour necessary), San Marino is definitely well worth a visit! 

While you can take a San Marino day trip from Bologna , it’s a fun place to see at night (once the day-trippers leave) as well.

Nicknamed the Venice of the Alps, the beautiful city of Annecy, France, is located less than an hour south of Geneva and features beautiful views of Lake Annecy (considered the cleanest lake in Europe), delicious Alpine cuisine (including all kinds of amazing cheese), and stunning canals.

The combination of Annecy’s incredible gastronomy, colorful old town surrounded by canals, and crisp Alpine air make it one of the best city breaks in Europe.

While Annecy is a popular day trip from Geneva, this small city is worth enjoying for at least a couple of days if you can spare the time.

If you can, schedule your trip to Annecy to coincide with at least one market day.

Fridays and Sundays are the biggest market days of the week, but there is a smaller market that takes place on Tuesdays as well.

Surrounded by medieval walls dating to the Saxons, and then by the Carpathian mountains beyond that, Brasov is an incredibly beautiful city to visit in the heart of Transylvania, and definitely deserves to feature on any trip to the region!

Must-see sights include the impressive Gothic-style Black Church, both the Black and White Towers, the views from Tampa Mountain, and the charming Council Square.

And, though it’s not within the city itself, we can’t mention Brasov without mentioning Bran Castle.

This infamous castle is located about a 30-minute drive away and is an absolutely incredible sight (though, fair warning: the Dracula connections are nothing by myth).

Set less than an hour away from Florence by train, Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, and is absolutely beautiful, packing in gorgeous Italian architecture and plenty of museums in its small size.

The biggest reason to visit, though, isn’t its beauty: it’s the food.

Bologna is one of the absolute best cities to visit in Europe for foodies.

As the capital of Emilia-Romagna, you can thank the region surrounding Bologna for mortadella (the original and far superior version of what non-Italians call bologna), parmigiano-reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, and tagliatelle al ragu (aka pasta bolognese)… just to name a small sliver of its delicacies.

Even with one day in Bologna , you can eat extremely well, see several of the most popular attractions, and even seek out a few hidden gems like the city’s canals.

Away from bustling capital cities and world-icon status, Europe boasts hundreds of other incredibly cool, lesser-visited cities that are still absolutely worthy of being considered one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

Here are just a few of them–consider mixing a couple of these into your Europe bucket list along with the more iconic options above!

As the capital of Spain’s southern Andalucia region, beautiful Seville is known for its stunning architecture (including its magnificent cathedral), its many orange trees that bloom in the summer, its flamenco culture, its seemingly endless sunshine (and heat), its beautiful Alcazar, and its photo-worthy Plaza de Espana.

It’s also known for acting as a filming location for two of the most famous franchises around!

The Alcazar played the Water Gardens of Dorne in Game of Thrones, and the Plaza de Espana was featured as the city of Theed in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.

Seville is also an excellent launchpad for a full Andalucia road trip !

The capital of Serbia is definitely one of the least-visited of the European cities rounded up in this travel guide, but it certainly deserves more attention.

Colorful, historic, and incredibly affordable, Belgrade is a fun and invigorating city that is absolutely packed with things to do .

While you’re there, be sure to check out the gorgeous Church of Saint Sava, the Belgrade Fortress, and the Knez Mihailov shopping street.

If you have a few days to spend in Belgrade, consider also adding on a day trip to colorful, nearby Novi Sad!

With its waterfront setting, steep hills, iconic trams, and gigantic red suspension bridge, Lisbon draws a lot of comparisons to San Francisco–but luckily, a trip to Lisbon is far more affordable.

Colorful and laid-back, Lisbon’s architecture is beautiful, its culture warm and inviting, and its attractions beautiful, making it one of the best cities in Europe to visit.

While you’re there, be sure to stroll through the historic neighborhood of Alfama, ride the popular Tram 28 past beautiful views (or at least snap photos of it going by), admire the city from a couple of different miradouros (viewpoints) check out the Time Out Market, and enjoy the sunset along the Tagus River.

Be sure not to leave without eating a dozen or so pasteis de nata, either!

Hilly, crowded, chaotic Naples is certainly a bit controversial among these best cities to visit in Europe–people tend to either love or hate it–but as we adore it, we want to include it here.

Built on the coast of Campania and boasting phenomenal views of Mount Vesuvius from its shores, Naples is an absolutely dynamic city.

Its streets are generally packed, its salesmen a bit more intense than those further north in Italy, and yes, it is a bit dirtier and rougher around the edges than Florence or Venice. 

However, it’s also gorgeous–places like the San Carlo Theater, Piazza del Plebiscito, and Galleria Umberto I are all beautiful–and incredibly interesting.

Features like the Bourbon Tunnel, Naples Underground, Castel Nuovo, and Naples Archaeological Museum are all incredible places to visit, and even if you don’t find Naples’ environment or attractions quite to your taste, there’s always its world-famous pizza to grab (and hold) your attention.

With incredible day trip options like Pompeii  and the legendary Amalfi Coast , you sure can’t beat its location, either!

Estonia’s small-yet-stunning capital city has long been under the radar as far as tourism is concerned, but luckily, that is starting to change.

With a beautiful cityscape right on the water, affordable prices, and plenty of fun things to do (be sure to add checking out the views from Toompea Hill and strolling through the hipster haven of Telliskivi Creative City to your list of things to see), Tallinn is a fantastic city to explore for a few days.

Once you wrap up, you can even travel by boat to easily extend your trip to another country!

Helsinki, Finland is only about 2 hours away from Tallinn by ferry.

Portugal’s “second city” has been gaining in popularity in recent decades, but still remains somewhat under-the-radar when compared to busy Lisbon.

Set on the Duoro River, Porto is known for its gorgeous, colorful architecture, churches covered in gorgeous azulejos (Portuguese hand-painted tiles), its dramatic views, and–most of all–for its port!

Once upon a time, the famous port grown in the nearby Duoro Valley was floated down the river to Porto, and today, you can still tour traditional port houses along the banks of the river (complete with tastings, of course).

Less visited than Florence or Milan , and yet stunningly beautiful, Verona is set in southern Veneto, nestled on the banks of the Adige River.

Home of a remarkably well preserved Roman amphitheater, amazing views, and the legend of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is as captivating as it is beautiful.

Be sure to enjoy the views from the Castel San Pietro and the Torre dei Lamberti as part of your visit.

And, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider taking a whitewater rafting trip down the Adige!

As the second-largest city in Norway and nicknamed the Heart of the Fjords, Bergen doesn’t generally top European bucket lists (at least for those of us that hail from outside the continent)–but perhaps it should.

Featuring highlights like the traditional wooden houses of Bryggen, a bustling fish market, and sweeping views from Mount Fløyen, Bergen makes for a fantastic introduction to Norway.

As the gateway to Norway’s incredible fjord beauty and home to what is arguably one of the most picturesque harbors in Europe, stunningly beautiful Bergen definitely ranks among the best cities to visit in Europe!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

30 thoughts on “35 Best Cities to Visit in Europe (Bucket List for City Lovers!)”

No Plovdiv or Sofia or Veliko Tarnovo. It is not a good enough list. ?

If I ever expand this list to 50, at least Sofia will make the list! Sofia holds a special place in our hearts, we’ve spent months there visiting good friends of ours.

Add all of Ireland to this list ?

Birmingham England

Birmingham is very much a cultural hotspot in the uk. It has lovely Victorian industrial buildings and has more miles of canal than Venice.

Most depressing soulless sprawled out place I’ve ever lived

What about Dublin??? Great atmosphere, great people, great history Cork, Kilkenny and Galway for smaller cities!

Bucharest is also a very beautiful city, once called “little Paris”!

In agreement with all of the listings even living on two of them! I would add Siena to the list of small cities to visit

We love Siena! It’s definitely a fantastic place to visit.

Siena is beautiful but I think Lucca is better!

Lucca is one of my favorites too! Tried to keep the level of Italy in check on this post, LOL, but I could easily do a whole list of only Italian cities, too. 🙂

Worth expanding the list. Need Wales, perhaps Conway, more Spain for example Caceres, Burgos, what of the lovely Island of Crete – Xania? And surely can’t miss Brittany and San Malo. Actually this is impossible….. Expand to 100 and leave out the iconic cos people know them? Be so good to have loads more of less well known.

Also ireland and Northern Ireland as Belfast portstewart portrush and some Irish cities

Surprised none of Switzerland’s cities are in there. I loved Lucerne and Zurich. Magical feeling walking around both cities.

I would also include Stockholm, Helsinki, Dublin, Moscow, and Oslo. Vienna, Amsterdam, Bruges and Lisbon are in my modest opinion quite overrated cities.

I disagree about Vienna and Dublin but agree about Moscow and Lisbon

Budapest and Vienna Salzburg or Brussels with Brugees? This a real question. After 2 years in quarauntine we want to explore Europe. (Budapest first time )

Very hard decision! They’re all wonderful in their own way.

If we had to pick, though, we’d pick Budapest/Vienna/Salzburg. 🙂

Τhank you Ms. Kate, After a lot of videos and Reviews and even though Bruges looks fantastic will be closer to choose Budapest and Salzburg. (even though Vienna is for the Second time after 2017). But still, this about as you wrote is a really hard decision if you think Bruges Ghent and of course Amsterdam that is really close to all of them … But we will be closer to your opinion that why i wrote here to take a feedback. Thank you for this

Budapest all day long

Warsaw is a beautiful city

I totally agree Warsaw is so quick changing city I have seen almost whole Europe and over 100 capitals in the world and I am so happy that I live in Warsaw

If you like Amsterdam, then don’t forget to visit Leiden. It’has the same look and feel as Amsterdam with canals and beautiful museums.

I have traveled many European cities mostly on business and a few with my wife on pleasure. I agree with your selections and comments. Your list is also very informative for me to visit the places we have not been to. Thank you for your postings.

Great Blog! You really made a very good choice of your top 35 cities in Europe (and choosing only 35 is extremely difficult). Keep the good work up and have fun travelling, now that it is possible again.

Saint Petersburg should be included. Beautiful place.

Hi Kate Have loved reading your post. Had been thinking of visiting Milan but see it doesn’t get a mention in this list. What are your thoughts on its merits? Thanks Barbra

We’ve visited Milan several times (were just there again a couple of weeks ago, in fact), but it’s not among our favorite cities in Italy!

That’s very subjective, of course, many people love it. As the business capital of Italy we don’t find it quite as idyllic and picturesque as many Italian cities, but of course its major sites–the Duomo, the Last Supper, etc–are all wonderful and worth visiting. We don’t dislike it, just don’t love it as much as other places.

We do have a guide to spending a day there! Here it is: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-milan-itinerary/

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The best cities in Europe: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

In order to make the cut for our list of the best cities in  Europe , certain criteria must be met. A European city should have a world-class food scene, plenty of  smart hotels , friendly locals and intriguing history. In this year’s  Readers’ Choice Awards  survey, multiple cities in Spain ranked highly – but you also voted for cities in Denmark, Switzerland, Portugal, Iceland, Croatia and Norway. In fact, cities across Scandinavia are well-loved by  Condé Nast Traveller  readers, with two cities from the region making the top five – pipped only to the post for the top spot by a diminutive Spanish city set right on the sea.

These are the best cities in Europe, according to the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards . The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.

The best cities in Europe

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia. Score 82.82

This Adriatic city might be the most famous and most-loved in Croatia. It’s encircled with stone walls completed in the 16th century, creating a dramatic landscape. It’s also a great jumping-off point for a Croatian island-hopping adventure.

Where to stay: Dubrovnik has some of the best hotels in Croatia. We particularly like Ninion Boutique Hotel , an adults-only hideout.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland. Score 82.98

“Iceland’s capital may be busier than ever, but it still has a tangible soul and culturally punches far above its weight,” features director Toby Skinner said in our cheat’s guide to Iceland . Its high-low food scene spans from music-first bars to New Nordic spots that compete with its Scandi neighbours, and a handful of cool festivals take place here each summer, too.

Where to stay: The arrival of Ian Schrager’s Reykjavik Edition at the end of 2021 felt like a step up for the city.

8. Zurich, Switzerland. Score 82.62

Zurich – the largest city in Switzerland – is the only Swiss entry to make the top 10 this year. The city scored highly in categories such as shopping and outdoor activities – perhaps unsurprising, as it sits on a lake and is surrounded by mountains.

Where to stay: Marktgasse Hotel occupies two 15th-century buildings in the Old Town, while Baur au Lac , overlooking the lake, is the grandest of the old palace hotels.

7. Bruges, Belgium. Score 83.69

Tread the cobbles to find this charming city’s real masterpieces – canal-side restaurants, sweet bakeries, exceptional chocolate shops and pretty neighbourhoods that are perfect for exploring by bike are just some of the reasons it’s ranked highly in this year’s survey. Bruges also scored highly for friendliness, as well as for its hotels and resorts.

Where to stay: Maison Amodio is a three-room B&B themed on places the owners enjoy - Paris , Biarritz and nearby Knokke.

6. Porto, Portugal. Score 84.29

Lisbon gets more airtime than its little sister, Porto, but this smaller city is hot on the capital’s heels. It has, says contributor Abigail Malbon in our edit of the best hotels in Porto , “arguably the most beautiful train station in the world and port tastings available at every wine bar on every corner.” There are also beautiful restaurants in Porto , making it a perfect weekend break – here’s how to spend 72 hours in Porto.

Where to stay: Overlooking the Douro River on the corner of one of the city’s oldest squares, Gran Cruz House is right in the thick of it.

5. Dublin, Ireland. Score 85.18

Millions of tourists descend on the Republic of Ireland’s capital each year – and it’s still a favourite among our readers, rounding out the top five. A mass of fabulous new hotels in Dublin for every type of traveller has opened, alongside lots of exciting things to do , and the restaurants here are some of our favourites in Ireland.

Where to stay: In the heart of pretty Georgian Dublin, The Merrion Hotel comprises an impeccable restoration of four townhouses that have been stitched together.

4. Malaga, Spain. Score 86.90

This coastal city is back in the game following an arty resurgence, hot new restaurants and a spattering of stylish places to stay. A cluster of museums, including Museo de Málaga and the Picasso Museum Málaga, has opened. The food scene spotlights hangouts such as Mercado Central de Atarazanas, in a central market that was a shipyard in the 14th century, and La Terraza de San Juan, at the Hotel Málaga Premium, remains a favourite.

Where to stay: Palacio Solecio is an 18th-century palace built for a Genoese merchant, while La Zambra is one of the newest creations from the Marugal hotel group.

3. Oslo, Norway. Score 88.67

The citizens of  Oslo  are a population notably keen to showcase the best of their city to visitors, from the Oslo Cathedral – still used by the Norwegian Royal Family and the Norwegian Government for key events throughout the year – to Akershus Castle. Baroque architecture dots the city and in and amongst it, no less than 30 museums showcasing the city’s history, art and political history, as well as myriad hiking trails around the rivers and gardens that wind their way around the outskirts.

Where to stay: Glamorous newcomer Sommerro has the city’s first year-round rooftop pool and sauna, plus seven restaurants and bars.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark. Score 88.78

Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen , has long upheld its accolade of the happiest city in the world , known for its hardy community spirit, exciting foodie scene and myriad canals that link the city’s various districts. From the 18th-century Rococo district – built during the reign of Frederick V and the site of the Amalienborg Palace – to Østerbro, perched on the outskirts of the city, built around Copenhagen’s medieval fortification.

Where to stay: Villa Copenhagen has a great location right next to Tivoli Gardens and a buzzy atmosphere at its all-day brasserie and in-house bakery, headed up by former Noma chef Gonzalo Guarda.

1. San Sebastian, Spain. Score 90.54

Spilling up and around the coastline of the Bay of Biscay, the resort town of San Sebastián in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country bags the top spot as Europe’s best city to visit. It’s an area known for its relaxed atmosphere, long stretches of honey-hued beaches and various foodie outposts with world-famous chefs at their helm.

Where to stay: For a central stay, Arbaso is the city’s coolest urban hotel. Elsewhere, in the Parte Vieja’s vast universe of pintxo bars, Lasala Plaza is home to a rare rooftop ‘solarium.’ See our guide to the best San Sebastían hotels for more

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Central Europe Tours & Trips

Find the right Central Europe travel package . With 3610 trips visiting places such as Germany (among them also river cruises  and Oktoberfest tours in Bavaria ) and Croatia, the tours range in length from one day up to 30 days. The most popular time to visit the Central Europe is August, which has the most number of tour departures. Check here our European itineraries for Families , our 7 day Croatia itineraries , or 10 day Germany itineraries .

250+ Central Europe tour packages with 9,624 reviews

• Coach / Bus

Eastern Highlights

Tour guide and driver were amazing. Great experience overall. Hotels were ok , breakfast always very goo. Included meals very good and optional excursions well worth the money. Highly recommend this tour with Expat Explore!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Berlin to Venice (15 Days) (including Salzburg)

• In-depth Cultural

The Best of Eastern Europe

Very good tour , something’s we didn’t find out right until the moment. But, overall good tour.

Croatian & Eastern Delights

Both the guide and the coach driver were friendly and professional. You couldn't ask for a better team

Best of Central Europe

Great tour... cesky krumlov the best!, great suggestions by guide, great travellers!

A Touch of Europe (11 destinations)

Europamundo run a couple of varying European loops so as expected every few days some fellow travellers finished their section of the loop and new travellers were added. Accomodation was good and centrally located when town trips were planned, or on the outskirts after a city visit if simply for an overnight and onward journey the next day. Day trip guides were excellent, tour guides great.

Berlin and Imperial Capitals

Allows multiple comparison of prices and operators to fit the best for my travel. Easy to use! Surely will recommend to friends and family.

Highlights of Eastern Europe (Start Vienna, End Vienna, 17 Days)

excellent tour of eastern Europe, Craig our directer and Alex our driver were both excellent. Our fellow passengers were a wonderful international group who all got on very well. The trip was a beautiful and very exceptional success due to trafalgar and thier Tour director Craig and driver Alex , not one negative aspect to review 100% perfect

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Imperial Europe (Summer, 10 Days)

This was our second Trafalgar tour. We had a great experience on both tours. We will definitely be enjoying a third Trafalgar tour in the near future.

Eastern Road (End Warsaw, 13 Days)

Central Europe

It was great; we enjoyed it and the guide was great.

London to Rome Trail (Summer, Start Amsterdam, 16 Days)

Imperial Highlights (10 Days)

It was a pleasant and wonderful experience.

This was a great tour made wonderful by our tour guide Zdenka. She knew these countries so well, she wanted us to see everything possible and she made it happen! Our bus driver, Gaspy, kept us safe and on time. Would recommend this tour, you learn so much and the countries visited were so beautiful and welcoming. This is the first time that Globus gave us a couple small, quirky new hotels that were not comfortable. Please Globus stick to regular hotels that have great staff. if the hotels are far from city center please give us transportation there and back on our afternoons off whenever possible.

Highlights of Eastern Europe (Classic, End Vienna, 14 Days)

Our tour director was Brian Ridley-He was amazing-such a wealth of knowledge,very friendly,flexible and accomodative.Made the tour even more pleasant because of that. We did the tour in September Started 16th September 2017 and finished on the 30th.Budapest to Vienna. Started off with a celebration dinner at the popular Gundel restaurant in Budapest,which was excellent.

What people love about Central Europe Tours

I had a safe journey till the last day. The tour did not end in Munich as expected/informed earlier. Hotels should have ramp to ease carry our luggage. Ference was an awesome driver. Mika was a lovely girl that ensures everyone safely departs on the last day.

Saw so much in a short time! Ten countries in 15 days! Had a very busy schedule to accomplish all we did, but it was worth it. The activities were varied, with great optional excursions offered. This is my 5th tour with Expat Exlore ( through Tourradar) and it never faIls to amaze me how much value you get for your money.

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Countries To Visit In Central Europe

Best Time: March - July Read More

Budget: Expensive

Here are the top 9 countries in Central Europe

1 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

Chocolates, beer, laces and porcelain are what you think of when you hear Belgium. All of this holds true, but there is a lot more to explore in this small country. Rich in art and culture, Belgium has a fine heritage with many monuments in various cities of the country. Being the centre of EU and NATO, the country holds a lot of prominence among other countries. With long beaches in the north to the highlands in the south, the country offers you everything.

2 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

Located in Eastern Europe, Croatia is famous for its breathtaking coastline along the Adriatic Sea. The country boasts numerous islands, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque coastal towns. It has a rich history and is famous for its well-preserved historical sites, some of which are popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Some of the scenes from the popular TV series "Game of Thrones" were filmed in Croatia, primarily in Dubrovnik and other locations. 

3. Czech Republic

3 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

The Czech Republic is a small country with a big package, offering something for its every visitor. Evolved as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, this country exhibits its enriched culture through its magnificent castles, museums, cathedrals, medieval towns and lying at its heart, the culture-crammed capital city, Prague. Often tagged as 'city of a thousand spires', Prague is adorned with incredible architecture, rustic cobblestone streets, noteworthy churches and medieval bridges. The city is also a haunt for night birds, offering fine dining, old breweries, zesty jazz clubs and buzzing markets. As a tourist, the Czech Republic leaves no leaf unturned to entertain its visitors, be it through stylish spa resorts or the picturesque national parks. The country also has some of the finest beer in the world.

4 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

Currently among the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, Hungary offers a unique amalgamation of traditional European culture and modern-day practices. Here, you can take a trip through quaint, rural villages and enjoy a thriving nightlife in Budapest, both within a distance of a few miles. With a capital city regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world, Hungary is home to several World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves and the second largest thermal lake in the world. Hungary also has the largest synagogue in Europe (Great Synagogue) and the third largest church in Europe (Esztergom Basilica). It is an ideal place for a fun and kicked-back vacation.

5. Netherlands

5 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

The Netherlands is a country located in Northwestern Europe. It is known for its flat landscape, canals, tulip fields, windmills, and cycling routes. It is known for its rich cultural history with a vibrant art scene and is home to many famous artists. A bike-friendly country with an extensive network of cycling paths and routes, the Netherlands consists of a beautiful canal system. From sandy North Sea beaches to enchanting forests, the Netherlands boasts diverse landscapes waiting to be explored. 

6 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

Poland is a country in Eastern Europe, filled with big castles and ancient museums. It is a country that is rich in history and proud of it. Apart from the bustling cities like Warsaw and Krakow, Poland also offers unspoilt natural beauty in the forms of lakes, wooded areas, rivers and hills. It is as we mentioned, a historic destination on account of Poland being central to the World War II. Memorials and synagogues abound in this country for a walk back in time. For those looking for some adventure though, Poland also has hiking and canoeing opportunities.

7 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

Basking in the glory of natural beauty, Austria is one of the most prominent attractions of central Europe. Rooted in its deep imperial culture, the country offers much more beyond the scenic beauty, including neo-classical architecture, the craze for music, popular cafes, and the thrill of sports. From the rustic backdrops to colorful mismatched houses, Austria is a place to relax, savor and appreciate the culture of the country of many years of making.

8 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

Germany is located in Central Europe and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. A country of superior intellect and rich culture, Germany offers its travellers a well-rounded experience of beautiful architecture, a beautiful countryside, fun-filled festivals, and the most brilliant, lip-smacking cuisine. It is famous for its historic cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt, as well as its picturesque countryside, including the Black Forest and the Bavarian Alps.

9. Switzerland

9 out of 9 Countries To Visit in Central Europe

Switzerland, nestled in the heart of Central Europe, is a captivating destination with a magnetic appeal to travelers from all corners of the globe. It is a land of stereotypes – expansive greenery, picturesque landscapes, chocolate, cheese, and watches. Switzerland’s lush green vistas are so perfect that they seem to be plucked out of a postcard. It truly is one of the most beautiful places on Earth – soaring Alpine mountains, medieval churches, a bucketful of fresh air, disarming landscapes, and green fields you would endlessly want to run through. It is one of those few places where everything runs on time, the chocolate is fantastic, the countryside is breathtaking, and everything is as perfect as a dream!

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Limerick ranks in top 10 most sustainable cities in Europe

The top 10 most sustainable destinations in europe have been revealed..

Limerick has been named among the most sustainable holiday destinations in Europe for 2024.

As holidaymakers become increasingly aware of  "overtourism" and sustainability when traveling, DiscoverCars.com has ranked the top 20 most sustainable European cities to help you plan your next eco-friendly vacation.

Researchers looked at the three biggest cities in each European country and ranked the locations on factors such as access to EV charging stations, pollution levels, number of vegan restaurants and number of nature spots. One city was selected from each country, based on its performance in the chosen categories. 

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Limerick city, which has 15 nature spots in the area, came in 10th place on the list, earning a total of 75 points out of a possible score of 100. The study also found that 28 percent of the restaurants in the city are vegan .

"Built on the river Shannon, there are lots of scenic walking and cycling routes around this lovely city. In 2018, Limerick began a rewilding project, reintroducing wildflowers into urban green spaces to encourage biodiversity. Close to the city, you can also find the Coonagh Nature Reserve," writes DiscoverCars.com.

"Every weekend, the city is host to the Limerick Milk Market where you can buy local organic produce and delicious street food to snack on while you explore."

Edinburgh, Scotland was named the most sustainable city in Europe, scoring 89 points out of 100. Zurich, Switzerland ranked second, followed by Paris, France in third place. Barcelona, Spain, and Rotterdam, Netherlands, rounded out the top five most sustainable holiday destinations in Europe.

Top 10 Most Sustainable European Cities for 2024:

• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Zurich, Switzerland
• Paris, France
• Barcelona, Spain
• Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Hamburg, Germany
• Ghent, Belgium
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Turin, Italy
• Limerick, Ireland

For the complete top 20 list of the most sustainable holiday destinations in Europe for 2024, click here .

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More From Forbes

Ranked: the 18 best hidden gems in europe, according to a new report.

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Looking for the best places to travel in Europe? So is the rest of the world.

As the summer season kicks into high gear across Europe, popular destinations are grappling with an influx of visitors. From Venice (which just started a controversial tourist tax ) to Spain’s Canary Islands (where the locals are planning mass protests against overtourism), iconic landmarks and locations are straining under the weight of record-breaking crowds.

So the new list of 2024’s Best Hidden Gems in Europe from European Best Destinations couldn’t come at a better moment.

A view of Primosten, Croatia, one of 18 hidden European gems revealed in a new report.

This new ranking shines a spotlight on 18 under-the-radar destinations that will whisk travelers away from the tourist throngs and into the heart of authentic European culture. The list is based on votes by more than one million travelers from 172 countries.

From secluded villages tucked away in the mountains to lovely untouched beach towns, these 18 hidden gems offer a glimpse into a world rarely seen by the average traveler.

View of Villajoyosa, Spain from above.

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The richest person in every state 2024, trump media stock djt at risk of a new short selling plunge, 1. villajoyosa, spain.

Experience a kaleidoscope of colors in Villajoyosa (which means “the jewellish town” in the Castilian language). Here, jewel-toned houses line the shores in a nod to the town’s seafaring heritage, overlooking crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

Ares del Maestre, a hidden gem in Castellon, Spain.

2. Ares del Maestre, Spain

Perched atop a rocky hill, Ares del Maestre—built in the 1300s in the province of Castellon—offers panoramic views and centuries of Spanish history. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets and explore ancient castles.

Sand beach in front of old town of Primosten in Croatia.

3. Primosten, Croatia

In Primosten—set along Croatia’s Dalmation coast—you’ll find pristine beaches and azure waters. You can indulge in fresh seafood, stroll along waterfront promenades and discover why this coastal paradise is still Croatia’s best-kept secret.

Floating village Bokodi in Hungary at sunset.

4. Lake Bokodi, Hungary

On Lake Bokodi, an hour drive from Budapest, there’s a village of floating chalets that’s an Instagrammer’s dream. Some of the chalets are private (many belong to local fishermen), but others are open to visitors. Explore the winding waterways and unwind in the serenity of this hidden Hungarian gem.

View from the sea to park at Moomin world on a sunny summer day in Naantali, Finland.

5. Naantali, Finland

In Naantali, a little town in southwestern Finland, you can experience the whimsical, colorful world of the Moomins—quirky characters created by a Finnish author in 1945. This enchanting seaside town even has a theme park dedicated to the Moomins called Muumimaailma.

Bour village in the Faroe islands.

6. Bour, Faroe Islands

Discover the rustic charm of Bour, a tiny village on Vagar Island in the Faroe Islands (a remote Danish archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean). Wander through verdant landscapes, marvel at panoramic ocean views and immerse yourself in this area’s timeless beauty.

Lighthouse and bunker in the sand dunes on the beach of Blavand, Denmark.

7. Blavand, Denmark

Blavand is a seaside Danish gem where wartime bunkers have been transformed into sculpted symbols of peace. Here, you can ride horseback along the wide, windswept beaches and explore coastal dunes.

View of the city of Ulm, a hidden gem in Germany.

8. Ulm, Germany

In Ulm—a small city on the banks of Germany’s Danube River—historic landmarks and modern amenities coexist in perfect harmony. Marvel at Gothic cathedrals, stroll along cobblestone streets and grab a bite to eat in the Fishermen’s Quarter, where restaurants and cafes are set in half-timbered houses. Just across the Danube is Neu-Ulm, which is part of Bavaria.

Boardwalks leading to a viewing platform on the beach of Bordeira in southwest Alentejo, Portugal.

9. Aljezur, Portugal

With its rugged Algarve coastlines and golden beaches, Portugal’s Aljezur has a laid-back vibe and a tranquil beauty. Don’t miss the local wines.

The view of Dartlo Village in Tusheti, a remote region of Georgia.

10. Dartlo, Georgia

Dartlo—a remote Georgian village—is the crown jewel in the untamed mountainous Caucasus landscape. It’s home to pristine wilderness and ancient stone towers.

Jumping into the water in Castro Urdiales, Spain.

11. Castro Urdiales, Spain

Castro Urdiales is a medieval port town steeped in maritime tradition in the Cantabria region of Spain. Wander through cobblestone streets, check out the ancient fortresses and soak up the sun on sandy beaches.

Ljotipollur crater lake in Landmannalaugar, Iceland.

12. Landmannalaugar, Iceland

In Iceland, Landmannalaugar is recognized for its otherworldly beauty, full of rhyolite mountains and steaming hot springs. It’s also a haven for outdoors lovers, thanks to its volcanic landscapes.

First folk architecture reserve in the world in Cicmany, Slovakia.

13. Cicmany, Slovakia

The Slvoakian town of Cicmany is like a fairytale, where narrow streets are lined with hand-painted houses and ancient traditions like folk art are being preserved.

Road to Mount Pico in the Azores.

14. Pico Island, Azores

In the volcanic paradise of Pico Island in the Azzores, you’ll find dramatic landscapes, lava caves and vineyard-covered hillsides with world-class wines.

The village of Pont-en-Royans, France.

15. Pont-en-Royans, France

In France, Pont-en-Royans is a pretty cliffside village where you can swim in the crystal-clear river and soak up panoramic views of the countryside.

Schwebebahn Train crossing a street in Wuppertal, Germany.

16. Wuppertal, Germany

Wuppertal is an industrial German city with a unique attraction: the iconic Schwebebahn, a suspended monorail built in 1901 that offers breathtaking views of the urban landscape. Fun fact: This is the oldest electric elevated railway with hanging cars in the world.

Saint Michel d'Aiguilhe chapel sitting on a rock in Le Puy en Velay, France.

17. Le Puy-en-Velay, France

In the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of south-central France, Le Puy-en-Velay is a place that’s steeped in history: It’s the gateway to the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. One of the highlights is St-Michel d’Aiguilhe, a 10th century chapel perched on a volcanic rock.

Staithes, a seaside village in the Scarborough borough of North Yorkshire, England.

18. Staithes, England

A former fishing center on North Yorkshire’s dramatic coastline, Staithes now attracts modern-day travelers, who come for the charming village, fresh seafood and natural beauty. Don’t miss the North York Moors National Park, where you can hunt for fossils and explore coastal trails.

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The 5 Best European Cities To Visit: Where To Go and When

E urope is a hotspot for tourism due to its impressive diversity and access. There are a multitude of cultures, cuisines and landmarks in Europe. The continent is also relatively easy to get around, since public transportation there is efficient. Some travelers may even opt to travel around Europe all at once since there are jaw dropping views within close proximity. The continent is a traveler’s paradise since the infrastructure is well designed for commuting . There are so many popular destinations within Europe, so it may be difficult for travelers to determine where exactly they should go. These are the best European cities to visit and the ideal season for travel in each. 

London 

London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Travelers visiting London can experience the top attractions in the bustling urban metropolis. It is a cultural capital with a plethora of historical sites that travelers can witness. This metropolitan city has plenty for travelers to explore. Some of the most popular things to do and see are the Big Ben clock tower, Westminster Abbey, The British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. Foodies can indulge in some English delicacies like fish and chips, traditional English breakfast and bangers and mash. There are many other cuisines that travelers can try in London, including Indian, Italian, Chinese, Thai, French and many other cultural foods. 

Best Times To Visit

The best time to visit London, England depends on the traveler. For the best sightseeing weather, travelers should make their way there between March and May. The temperature in this season is around 60 degrees, so travelers should dress themselves in layers. The high season for travel in London is in the summer and winter. If travelers want to avoid crowds, they should not visit London between June to August or December to January. 

Paris 

Paris, France is a major tourism destination that has plenty of globally recognizable monuments and cultural hallmarks. Even the cityscape of Paris is quite popular due to its iconic landmarks. French culture is all around very influential, but beyond that Paris is a remarkable city with plenty to see. The architectural wonders of Paris are a big appeal of the city. In fact, over 30 million travelers enjoy the picturesque city of light each year. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace, Paris Catacombs, Luxembourg Gardens and the Champs-Elysees are among the best attractions in the city. Tourists can enjoy the cheeses, soups, macarons and fresh breads of Paris while visiting Paris. 

The best times to visit Paris are either in the spring or autumn. During these times travelers can expect better temperatures. This weather allows them to comfortably sit outside and enjoy things like Parisian cafe tables. The weather is nice and moderate in the city between April to May and September to October. Travelers will even notice that there are less crowds in the tourist areas.

Rome is the capital city of Italy and it has certainly made its mark on the globe. It is among one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Some of the art, architecture and cuisine of Rome dates back 3,000 years. The city offers travelers a deep dive into ancient history and culture. There are plenty of famous sightseeing attractions in Rome that travelers should visit during their Europe trip. Some of the most popular ancient buildings for tourists to view in Rome include The Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, The Pantheon and St. Peter’s Basilica. There are a large number of famous remnants of the Roman Empire that have historical significance in this city. Some other things that tourists can do in Rome include guided walking tours, countryside trips, shopping, indulging in delicious Italian food and strolls around the city.  

Travelers visiting Italy should expect bigger crowds in areas like Rome. Although crowds are somewhat consistent, travelers can plan their trip so that it is as convenient as possible. Between October and April travelers will experience the least amount of crowds. The costs of accomodations are lower during this time too, but travelers may have to tolerate the chilly weather in exchange for price. Travelers should be sure to pack a jacket since weather can be around 50 and 70 degrees in Rome during this season. 

Barcelona 

Barcelona, Spain is an artistic looking and charming city with plenty for visitors to experience. The city overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is a modern hub as well as one of Spain’s most popular cities. It has a wide range of leisure activities and is a walkable city, so plenty of travelers love Barcelona. The unique architecture, beaches, culinary options and art of Barcelona keep travelers coming back. Travelers can enjoy the food of Barcelona while in the bustling city. Paella, croquettes, potato bombas and escalivada are just a few of the most popular dishes of Barcelona. Tourists commonly enjoy the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral of Barcelona, Casa Milá, Park Güell, Las Ramblas and Barceloneta Beach while in the city. Some of the most popular attractions of Barcelona are the buildings and shopping areas. Alternative activities for travelers include hot air balloon tours, walking tours, food and wine tours, private sailing tours and immersive museum experiences. 

Best Times To Visit 

The best time to travel to Barcelona is between April and July. During this time travelers will experience the best weather. Temperatures are around the mid 70’s during this season which means that the outdoor conditions are manageable. This is particularly important for travelers depending on public transportation. If sightseeing is a priority travelers should visit in early spring or autumn since there are less crowds. During the spring there is some rainfall, especially during April. Since a lot of the attractions in Barcelona are outdoors, this will definitely impact a trip. 

Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and it is a quite popular city. It has a vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. The picturesque canals, historic homes, creative spirit, liberal appeal and shopping opportunities are the top features of the city. Tourists looking to immerse themselves in this European city can try the local cuisine. Pannenkoeken, haring, oliebollen, kaas and stamppot are some of the top Dutch comfort foods. These traditional food items are popular among locals but travelers should try them while they are exploring abroad. Stamppot, a dish made from potatoes and vegetables, is the national dish. Other than cuisine, travelers can visit the top attractions of the area to learn more about Amsterdam. The Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Heineken brewery tour, red light district, Body Worlds Museum and local parks are the top things to see. 

The best months to visit Amsterdam are spring and autumn. Between April and May or September and November is the most ideal time to visit. There are less crowds and more mild weather during these seasons. Although the weather is not particularly dependable, these months provide pleasant temperatures of around 60 degrees. If travelers prefer to travel during the most affordable time to go to Amsterdam, the winter may be best. Temperatures generally are around 30 or 40 degrees during the winter, but hotel rates are low. 

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• Senior Travel

9 of the Best Places to Retire in Europe

Thinking about moving abroad in your golden years? Consider these European destinations.

More and more seniors have been opting for retirement abroad in recent years. In fact, the Social Security Administration reports that more than 700,000 Americans receive their monthly payments in foreign countries. Europe is an especially popular choice, and a number of factors explain why. Some retirees want to experience the culture of their ancestors. Others may have enjoyed vacations on the continent and want to spend more time there. Depending on the country or city, European destinations may have a low cost of living, a pleasant climate, or an overall high quality of life.

Each country has different rules on visas and residency qualifications, but in general, most require evidence of a minimum income level and private health coverage. Many have restrictions on retirees having jobs or owning property, while others make provisions for both. Americans living abroad must still file a federal tax return, though some countries have treaties that prevent double taxation on retirees' income. Keep in mind that Medicare does not pay for health care abroad, though some European countries allow legal residents to participate in their national health program.

With so many considerations, it's advisable to obtain professional advice on taxes and to research health care, visa and residency requirements, rental costs, infrastructure, and language. The U.S. State Department is an excellent resource for anyone considering retirement abroad.

If you're ready to make the leap, though, this list is here to help. We've looked into the latest policies and trends, and these are nine of the best places to retire in Europe.

Algarve, Portugal

Gorgeous white-sand beaches, warm Atlantic waters, ideal year-round weather, and an array of outdoor activities await retirees in this region on Portugal's southern coast . Historic towns like Silves boast beautiful Moorish architecture, while a bustling local airport and the relative proximity of Lisbon make the region easy to access. Considered one of the best places in the world to retire, the Algarve offers an extraordinary selection of golf courses, a healthy lifestyle, Mediterranean diet, and low cost of living. Best of all for monolingual seniors, English is widely spoken.

Legal residents are able to register with the National Health Service to get pay-as-you-go access to public hospitals and health centers, though it's worth noting that obtaining private health insurance is required as a condition of receiving a residence permit. (Other requirements include a passport and proof of income.) These permits are mandatory for retirees wanting to stay longer than three months, though once a permit is issued, it remains valid for five years. Residents can also apply for a permanent permit when the initial one expires. If you want to simply make a long visit rather than moving to the country, that's doable too: no visa is needed for stays of fewer than 90 days within a six-month period.

Income is generally taxed, but Portugal offers 10 years with no tax on retirement pensions under certain qualifications of its Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program.

Bordeaux, France

A lovely riverfront city in southwestern France, Bordeaux enjoys warm summers and mild winters. Conveniently situated a short drive from the Atlantic Ocean and close to a multitude of renowned wineries , the city has much to offer visitors and residents alike. Museums, galleries, concert halls, public parks, restaurants, cafes, outdoor markets, and lively nightlife are all plentiful. Getting here (and traveling once you've settled in) is also easy, thanks to a modern system of high-speed trains that connect Bordeaux to various cities in France and across Europe.

France's health care system has been recognized as one of the best in the world, and, fortunately for would-be residents, it's accessible even to noncitizens under certain conditions. If you live in the country for three consecutive months and stay for a minimum of 183 days per year, you're eligible to apply for public health care.

A long-stay visa is required to remain in France for more than 90 days, and this must be obtained while still in the United States. To apply, you'll need to provide your local French consulate with a passport, extra photos, and proof of financial self-sufficiency and confirmed housing, among other documents.

Budapest, Hungary

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

With beautiful historic buildings, excellent restaurants, thermal baths, and friendly citizens, Budapest is becoming a popular retirement destination for both Europeans and Americans. The city developed a reputation in the early 2000s for affordability, and, though prices have risen since, the cost of living is still appealingly low — think $1,000-a-month rent and high-end dinners for $50.

Hungary is a member of the European Union, making continental travel a breeze (though remember that the country uses its own currency, the forint). A rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and a location on the Danube have attracted a large international community, which means English speakers are easy to find.

Foreigners are permitted to buy property in Budapest, and the health care system is generally regarded as good. Foreign retirees can become eligible for permanent residency after just three years of living continuously in Hungary, as long as they meet certain criteria like having a stable home in the country.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

This capital city of about 295,000 is an emerging favorite among retirement-age expats. A former Yugoslav republic, Slovenia has been independent since 1991 and a European Union member since 2004, and it boasts a rich culture and diverse natural environment. A wide range of attractions can be found within a few hours' drive of Ljubljana, from Adriatic beaches and Alpine ski resorts to the Italian city of Venice. Slovenia has a long history of winemaking and several UNESCO World Heritage sites, one of which is located in the center of Ljubljana. The capital also offers a charming mix of old and new architecture and a walkable urban core that's on par with many better-known European cities — but without the throngs of tourists.

No visa is required here for stays of up to 90 days. If you wish to stay longer than that, you'll begin by applying for a temporary residence permit. People with Slovene heritage can expedite the permit process, so fire up the ancestry test if you're interested in relocating. Health care is considered adequate, and many people purchase private health insurance if they are not eligible for the public program. Income is taxable on residents, but double taxation can be avoided with proper IRS filing.

Split, Croatia

Growing in popularity as a tourist destination, Croatia is also quite attractive as a retirement location. Not only does the country have approximately 3,600 miles of coastline, but warm, dry summers and mild winters create a desirable climate. The country's second-largest city, Split, offers easy access to some of the best beaches in Croatia . The Roman emperor Diocletian built his palace here, and its remains have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Restaurants, bars, cultural and entertainment venues, and many English-speaking residents make it relatively easy to adapt.

U.S. citizens who intend to stay longer than 90 days must apply for a temporary residence permit , and once you've lived in Croatia for five years, you become eligible for permanent residency. U.S. citizens are also permitted to purchase real estate in Croatia. Health care is considered adequate, and English-speaking doctors are available.

Alicante, Spain

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Located on Spain's southeastern coast, Alicante offers exquisite beaches, dynamic nightlife, and historic attractions. The climate is the most famous draw here — the warm, waterfront city has been called the sunniest in Europe — but the culinary scene is equally impressive. Reasonably priced dining options range from casual to elegant, with fresh seafood and the artisan stalls of the Alicante Central Market being particular highlights.

With a population of just over 330,000, Alicante has all the amenities of a major city, yet it maintains a reputation for being cozy and friendly. It's well connected to destinations across Spain thanks to an excellent rail system, and the bustling Alicante-Elche Airport also helps make travel a breeze.

High-end housing can certainly be found here given Alicante's longtime popularity with foreign nationals, but it's also possible to rent modest homes for under $1,000 per month or to purchase them for as little as $100,000. Health care also tends to be affordable, and, as is the case throughout Spain, it's regarded as being of exceptional quality, with state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained doctors. Non-Europeans looking to retire in Spain should contact their local Spanish embassy to apply for a long-stay retirement visa, which must be renewed annually. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta is the tiny capital city of Malta, a country composed of three islands in the Mediterranean Sea about 60 miles south of Sicily. Though the city has a population of around 6,000, this UNESCO World Heritage site punches above its weight in terms of history and culture. Appealing features include a picturesque coastal location on a peninsula between two sheltered harbors and architecture that dates back as far as the 16th century. Serviceable public transit and strong walkability add to the ease of living here.

The main language besides Maltese is English, and the country has a large population of expats from the U.K., Australia, and the U.S. Affordability is another draw: one-bedroom apartments in the capital region can rent for as low as $750 a month, and groceries and restaurant dining are also reasonably priced.

Private health care in Malta is recommended for non-EU expatriates, and is both highly rated and inexpensive compared to U.S. options. Malta and the U.S. have a treaty in place for relief from double taxation on income. Plus, residency can be established in several ways, making relocation to Malta accessible for retirees.

Kinsale, Ireland

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

Situated on the southern coast of the Republic of Ireland , Kinsale is a historic town known for its colorful architecture and thriving maritime culture. For retirees who enjoy the outdoors, this could be an ideal spot. The waterfront offers beaches, fishing, and boating opportunities, while cycling, hiking, and horseback riding are all available on shore. One of the country's most beautiful golf courses, Old Head, is nearby, and even for non-golfers, it's the perfect place for a walk among sea breezes and stunning views.

English is spoken, of course, and foodies will appreciate the abundance of restaurants and fresh seafood. The weather is mild, and the proximity of the city of Cork (30 minutes to the north) makes rail travel and international flights easy to access. Living costs are comparable to those in the United States, though housing prices have been increasing across Ireland in recent years.

In order to stay beyond three months, visa applicants must prove adequate income (around $54,000 annually) and substantial savings. Temporary residence visas can be renewed annually for five years, at which point the duration is extended to five years per visa. Private health coverage is advised, and health care is considered good.

Prague, Czech Republic

This unique and captivating city is particularly welcoming to foreigners — it's home to more than 200,000 expatriates and a growing number of retirees. Nicknamed the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague was mostly spared in World War II, as evidenced by its colorful Baroque and Gothic architecture. The entire Old Town has been named a World Heritage site, yet the Czech Republic's capital is a modern city with high standards of living, world-class art and museums, diverse cuisine, and a range of historic pubs and inventive breweries.

Affordable rents can be found just outside the city center, including in many impressively modern apartments. Centrally located in Europe, Prague is a great base from which to explore all of the continent. Plus, its health care system is among Europe's best. Health insurance is mandatory yet comes at a reasonable cost, and there are plenty of high-quality, well-trained doctors, many of whom speak English. U.S. citizens or other non-EU residents wishing to retire in Prague must obtain a long-term visa , beginning with an application at their most convenient Czech consulate. Permanent residency can be applied for after living legally in the Czech Republic for five years.

Social Security Administration

U.S. State Department

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