There are certain cities that whether you fall in love with them or not, you just need to visit in your lifetime. Europe has lots of those cities and while I have so much more to see still throughout the continent, there are spots I have seen so far, that I would say you need to see, to take them in, to feel their charm, to feel their identities and experience them. So here in no particular order are 7 of those cities that you must see in Europe at some point in your life and you won’t regret a single one.
There isn’t another spot quite like Amsterdam anywhere in the world. With waterways and canals at every turn, tree-lined cobble-stoned streets and a charm all its own, Amsterdam is a not-to-miss destination in Europe.
Oh Dublin, a city with an electric energy, beautiful colored stone and brick buildings and a character totally unique to Ireland. I could wander Dublin for days, taking in everything it offers, with that quintessential Irish charm.
Edinburgh surprised me, in the best possible way. It’s magical, it’s old-world, it’s so unique and yet at the same time, so Scotland. It’s one of those cities that you feel like you’re in another time and place, with stone buildings that seem straight out of a magical land, views of the city from multiple points and a landscape that is literally gorgeous, Edinburgh will surprise you too.
London, London, what is there not to love. A wonderful city filled to the brim with culture, architecture and history, this English city is a must-see for so many reasons. Let’s just say there is a reason that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and always has been.
While Italy and I have some issues we’re working through, there is definitely a reason Italy is so high on everyone’s travel lists. The thing is, each part of Italy is different, and so is the case with Milan vs. Rome (both of which are on this list). Milan is in the Northern part of the country and the differences are worthy of experiencing, add colorful but restrained buildings, brick and stone architecture and a chic charm to it and you have Milan, a spot worthy of adding to your list.
I don’t think Paris needs an explanation of why it’s on this list, but none the less, the French capital holds a unique position of being one of the most visited destinations on the planet. Add to that the charm of the city, the landmarks and the museums and Paris is definitely a must-see in Europe.
As I mentioned above, Italy has so many spots to see, but perhaps the most famous would be Rome. With culture, history and colorful buildings, Rome is a city that you really just must see and experience in your lifetime, enough said.
Brittny says
Since living in Europe I have now visited 5 of these, and I definitely agree that they are must sees! London and Milan are the only two we haven’t made it to. We did also see Venice and Florence for large cities in Italy, so not sure that we’ll make it back for Milan, but London is a definite must that I’m hoping we’ll fit in next year. 🙂
Brittny
http://www.awrittenjourney.com
Casey says
Ahhh London!!! You’ve got to make it there 🙂 such a fab city! 🙂
anniewiltse says
I’ve been to Amsterdam (briefly) and Paris (2.5 weeks) and absolutely agree. I have a long list of places to visit in Europe, and the other five cities are definitely on it!
Casey says
Perfect! They are all such great spots!