Which are the Top Countries Of Europe To Visit?
If you still dream about that European trip you’ve promised yourself after college, it’s time you realize the idea. Many travelers put Europe on their radar because of the rich historical background, captivating landscapes, culture, and immortal literature.
You will find everything in Europe, starting from the lively atmosphere, extraordinary nightlife, artistic buildings that are centuries old, castles that will take you on a tour to a whole different magical world, mouthwatering cuisine, and picturesque villages.
So, if you’re still hesitating to visit Europe, we hope that these best places will change your mind.
Amsterdam, the Capital of the Netherlands
Known for the tiny houses with gable roofs, artistic heritage, and well-developed canal system, the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam represents a tourist draw since forever.
If you decide to visit, you can enjoy artwork at the Rijksmuseum where you can find work by Vermeer and Rembrandt. If you’re into modern art, you can visit the Stedelijk. Or check out the popular Vang Gogh museum. As you can notice, the city holds a Museum district that will wow you.
You’ve probably heard by now, but if you haven’t, allow us to tell you that cycling represents the city’s character, as there are countless bike paths. If you’re not into riding bikes, you can visit galleries or go shopping in the Jordaan district. Or have a cup of coffee in one of Vondel’s cafes, and perhaps attend an open-air theater.
Besides all these things you can do here, the most exciting one is visiting Anne Frank’s house. That’s right. She lived in Amsterdam during WW2.
Have we mentioned that in some coffee shops you can purchase a small amount of marijuana?
And we know you’ve been all waiting for us to tell one of the biggest attractions of the city, and that’s Red Light District. It represents the home to the Erotic Museum where you can observe provocative prints and paintings.
The best time to visit Amsterdam is between mid-March and early-May during the tulip season. And in summer between June and August because it’s when the weather is warm and mild. If you plan a visit during the fall, keep in mind that it’s best to come between September and October.
If you want to attend important interesting events that occur annually, you can visit in April for King’s Day. It’s an event celebrated with outdoor concerts, flea markets and everything’s covered in orange because it’s the national color.
Another interesting event you might want to follow is Gay Pride that’s held in August. It’s an outdoor street party that includes boats you can spot in the canals.
Wondering how winter is like in Amsterdam?
Well, if you plan to visit in winter, know that the winter period is damp and cold. But it’s all up to taste. Some people like visiting attractions during winter, while others like to enjoy the warm weather while visiting.
Vienna, the Capital of Austria
Austria’s capital, the charming Vienna will definitely leave you breathless. The beautiful city lies in the east part of the country on the Danube river.
It was the home to some of the biggest minds throughout history, including the father of psychoanalysis, the famous Sigmund Freud, the talented Beethoven and the mastermind Mozart.
The city is best known for the imperial palaces like the Habsburgs’ summer residence, Schonbrunn. It’s also known for the many museums where you can see works by Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and many other artists on display.
It’s also known for the modern and historic buildings that will leave you speechless. This place is like heaven on earth. However, in order to explore the countless attractions better and learn more about the history of the city, you should consider hiring a local guide and get the whole experience.
Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral represents the symbol of the city just like the Vienna State Opera that hosts the Opera Ball every year. If you want to gaze at rooftop views, visit the Prater park.
For those of you who are intrigued by this city’s beauty and rich historical background, know that it’s best to visit between June and August. And December. If you want to attend Vienna’s Opera Ball, visit in February.
And if you want to check the Life Ball, come to Vienna in May. You will also catch the Vienna Festival that lasts between mid-May and mid-June where you can enjoy modern performing arts.
If you wonder what’s Vienna like during the winter period, allow us to say that winders are snowy and cold in this city of wonders. But if you’re a fan of snow and coldness, feel free to visit during the winter period and enjoy the beauties of the historic city covered in white sheets.
Santorini, an Island in Greece
There’s not a human on earth who hasn’t heard of Santorini and who doesn’t want to visit this paradise. It’s considered as the gem of Europe and a part of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea.
Ruined in the 16th century BD by a volcanic eruption, the island has a rugged landscape that’s definitely worth your visit. It’s one of the most unique places on this planet with the perfect overlook at the crystal water, and the narrow islands along with beaches made up by white, red and black lava stones.
The cubiform, whitewashed buildings belong to two principal towns, Oia and Fira. They’re both attached to cliffs above water which is amazing and gives the island it’s the charm. You’re allowed to visit the Archeological Museum of Thera. Or go shopping in the boutique stores in Fira.
Santorini also has many tavernas and incredible bar scene serving dry white wine and grilled seafood. The wine is made out of Assyrtiko grape while the seafood they’re serving is local.
And while the heart of the island, Fira is known for the cuisine, incredible landscapes and city attractions, the other town, Oia represents a famous spot where you can gaze at breathtaking sunsets over the old fortress of the island.
If this awoke your desire to visit Santorini, know that it’s best to do it between May and September when the atmosphere is lively and the weather is hot and dry. If you come during this period, you will catch the numerous religious shows, different cultural events that end in fireworks and other music festivals.
If you’re not into visiting during peak season, visit between October and April when the weather is pleasant and there are no many tourists. It’s the quietest time of the year when you can enjoy a nice family vacation. Or spend a lovely weekend with your partner.
Berlin, the Capital of Germany
The capital of Germany, Berlin represents a city that everyone MUST visit at least one. And once you do, you will always come back to relive the incredible experience. Berlin represents a mixture of modern and historic landmarks that will amaze you.
If you plan to visit, put the Berlin Wall on your radar. You can also check the Holocaust memorial and the popular Brandenburg Gate that represents a symbol of the city. It’s also a symbol of reunification after the division in the 18th century, during the Cold War.
Climb the Berlin Victory Column if you want to gaze at the city’s landscape and take a picture at 220 feet above Berlin. But prepared to climb 285 stairs to enjoy the view. The city is filled with parks, castles monuments, and b that include Islamic, Roman and Greek works.
One of the buildings that can’t escape your sight is the 19th-century parliament or the Reichstag. Berlin is also known for its great nightlife. You can visit some of the many techno clubs, restaurants, and bars. Or shop at the vintage stores in Kreuzberg.
Or observe the head-spinning buildings on Potsdamer Platz and visit the heart of the city, the famous Alexanderplatz where you can enjoy coffee at some of the Starbucks stores or shop in some of the biggest shopping centers.
If you plan to visit, know that it’s best between May, October, and December. If you decide to visit in summer, you will catch the Bierfestival and the Berlin Pride Celebration. If you prefer a winter visit, you can come around Christmas Eve and enjoy the Christmas Markets and be a part of the celebration by the Brandenburg Gate.
Moscow, the Capital of Russia
Located in western Russia, on the Moskva river, Moscow represents the country’s capital. Moscow has a rich historical background you can notice by the many buildings like the complex Kremlin that represents home to the President.
Outside the complex stands Red Square. It’s the symbolic center of Russia and home to Lenin’s Mausoleum. You can also visit the St. Basil’s Cathedral that’s known for the onion-shaped domes and the State Historical Museum.
If you want to experience everyday life in the city, visit the Garden Ring district. You will find many nightclubs, restaurants, bars, and museums here. You can visit the State Tretyakov Gallery and see some real Russian art, and the Pushkin State Museum which holds countless impressionist artworks.
If you’re into shopping, visit the Tretyakovsky Proyezd. It’s a street full of luxury stores. If you like to enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful historic city, climb the Ostankino TV Tower.
For those who plan to visit in winter, you can go ice-skating in Gorky Park and catch the Russian Winter Festival. Most tourists visit Moscow during the summer period.
However, if you want to attend some of the interesting events that occur every year, you should visit in February and March to catch the Maslenitsa festival that’s staged to welcome spring with music and pancakes.
Or be a part of the Golden Mask Festival that takes place between March and April. It features puppetry, dance, opera, and drama.
If you like the cold and would like to see Moscow covered in snow, visit between December and January to catch the Winter Festival that features ice-skating and displays many Christmas markets.
Know that the winter period between December and March seems like a lifetime and it’s very snowy out here with arctic temperatures.
Zurich, a City in Switzerland
An international center for finance and banking, Zurich is one of the most prominent cities in Switzerland. Located in northern Switzerland at the north edge of Zurich lake this city will take you to an incredible journey that you will never forget.
If you visit, check out the central Old Town on each side of the Limmat river that portrays the pre-medieval historical background of the city. You can visit Rathouse, or the 17th-century town hall and one of the oldest streets in the entire world named Augustinergasse.
It’s consisting of merchants’ homes with colorful carved windows that will leave you amazed. If you like shopping, visit the Bahnhofstrasse, a shopping boulevard that is consisting of countless fashion shops and banks.
If you want to experience Zurich’s nightlife, go to Niederdorf. It’s a popular party area with a vibrant lively atmosphere. Grossmunster tower is definitely a must-visit, especially if you want to enjoy the breathtaking landscape of the Alps and get a panoramic view of the city.
If you plan to visit, know that it’s best to come in Zurich during the spring, summer and fall period, between May and November. If you do, you will catch the Zurich festival that features theater, music and art, outdoor parties and the Street Parade that’s held in August.
Lisbon, the Capital of Portugal
If you want to see a different side of Europe, visit the coastal capital of Portugal, the stunning Lisbon. It’s a hilly city that offers incredible views of the old city’s colorful buildings, Ponte 24 de Abril bridge and Tagus Estuary natural reserve.
You can get the full panoramic view of the old city if you enter the Sao Jorge Castle. If you want to see some art, visit the National Azulejo Museum. And if you’re into enjoying sandy beaches, just outside the city lie the best Atlantic beaches that will take your breath away.
You can easily explore the heart of the city on foot or by using the old-fashioned trams. If you want to check out taverns and small streets, visit the Moorish Alfama district.
And if you want to experience the nightlife of Lisbon, go to Bairro Alto. For coffee, meals, and shopping, visit Chiado. If you want to see some historic monuments, go to Belem Tower, and don’t miss out the 16th-century Jeronimos Monastery.
If you want to check something more modern, you can visit the huge Oceanario aquarium in the Parque das Nacoes district. If this was enough to awaken your interest in Lisbon, know that it’s best to visit between April and September because of the sunny and dry weather.
If you want to catch the Indie Lisboa, visit in April. It’s a film festival featuring a universal independent cinema. If you want to be a part of the outdoor parties in the old city, pay Lisbon a visit in June and enjoy the music, dance and nice street decorations.
Istanbul, a City in Turkey
One of the biggest and most famous cities in Turkey is Istanbul. The prominent city stretches across Europe and Asia through the Bosphorus Strait. The old part of the city portrays the cultural impact of the countless empires that once ruled this city.
If you visit, check out the Sultanahmet district that features the open-air hippodrome from the Roman era and the Egyptian obelisks. You can also visit the epochal Hagia Sophia, a former Greek Christian cathedral where you can observe the rarest Christian mosaics.
Blue Mosque is one of the most visited attractions in Istanbul. It’s named after the blue interior elements and is definitely worth your visit if you want to get the whole experience.
You can also check the Topkapi Palace built around 1460. It represented a harem to many Ottoman sultans and is consisting of royal rooms and artifacts.
If you want to visit the modern heart of the city, visit the Galata bridge. It’s a famous fishing spot that leads to the contemporary part of Istanbul. If you like shopping, visit the Galata area that’s known for the luxury boutiques and the medieval tower.
The Asian side of the city is consisting of residential areas and districts that face the water. If you plan to visit, know that it’s best between May and September while the weather is still pleasant and humid. Winters in Istanbul are cold, damp and snowy.
If you want to catch the International Film Festival, visit in April. If you want to be a part of the Istanbul Music Festival, come and visit the city in June.
Dubrovnik, a City in Croatia
Located in southern Croatia, Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful and most popular cities that fronts the Adriatic Sea. It’s best known for the Old Town that’s surrounded by gigantic stone walls that were built during the 16th century.
It’s consisting of well-preserved houses and buildings starting from the Gothic Rector’s Palace that’s now a modern museum, to Renaissance Sponza Palace, to St.Blaise Church which is designed in baroque style.
If you want to grab a drink, visit some of the many bars in Placa that’s paved with limestone and offers a wide range of stores, cafes, and restaurants. Visiting Baroque Dubrovnik Cathedral is a must. It holds golden and silver antiques that are very old, somewhere between the 11th and 18th century.
If you want to enjoy amazing sunsets and go swimming, visit one of the many beaches and dive into the crystal clear waters. Banje is one of the most famous ones where you can rent deck chairs and get the whole experience.
If you want to enjoy Dubrovnik’s vibrant nightlife, visit some of the best bars and beachside nightclubs. If you plan to visit, know that it’s best between May and September while the climate is still mild.
If you want to catch the Summer Festival, visit between July and August. It features music, dance and theatre act. If you want to attend the celebration of Dubrovnik’s patron saint, pay the city a visit in February and become a part of the parade at Feast Day of St. Blaise.
Prague, the Capital of the Czech Republic
The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague often referred to as “the City of a Hundred Spires” will make you fall in love at first sight. Prague is divided by the river Vltava.
It’s best known for the Old Town District which is the heart of the historic core of the city featuring Gothic cathedrals, rainbow buildings, and the famous Astronomical clock.
If you want to observe monuments of Catholic saints, visit the Charles Bridge that was completed in 1402 and represents one of the most visited attractions. If you want to get a panoramic view of Prague, enter the Prague Castle located on a hill that besides being a historic piece, it also represents home to the president.
You can also visit the Old Jewish Cemetery located in Prague’s old Jewish District. The new part of Prague is consisting of art-nouveau buildings, cafes, and shops, at Wenceslas Square.
If you want to get the whole experience visit Letna park that offers a magnificent view of the city’s colorful rooftops and bridges where you can also grab a beer at the beer garden.
If you plan to visit, keep in mind that it’s best between April and October because of the mild weather. Easter is one of the most important holidays in Prague. And if you want to be a part of the celebration, visit between March and April.
if you want to experience the Christmas spirit of Prague, visit in December and be a part of the Christmas and New Year’s celebration, just know that winters here are very cold.
