Best Places to Visit in Europe

Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, the best places to visit in Europe can be hard to narrow down. Here are a few of the must-see cities while you’re across the pond.

Paris: The City of Light

France’s capital is a world center for art, fashion and food, but it’s the wide boulevards and the peaceful Seine Riverwinding its way through the cityscape that win hearts. From the centuries-old Gothic cathedral Notre Dame to the modern pizzazz of the soaring Eiffel Tower and the glass pyramids by the Louvre entrance, Paris is indisputably one of the best places to visit in Europe. Drink an espresso at one of the many cafes. Take the kids on an outdoor art tour in the Luxembourg Gardens. Go for a Champs-Élysées stroll up to the Arc de Triomphe. The City of Light is also a foodie and shopper heaven—if you can pull yourself away from the splendor of its other attractions.

Lisbon: The City of Seven Hills

If ever a city looked like a postcard, it's Lisbon, the hilly capital of Portugal. Not only does Lisbon boast proximity to golden beaches, but its seven hills also overlook the beautiful Rio Tejo. The hillsides are dotted with viewpoint terraces—miradouros—with stunning vistas. Old Town’s winding cobblestone alleyways take you past pastel buildings, domed cathedrals and age-old ruins. Hike up to São Jorge Castle for an overview of the old city—and be sure to get a view of Lisbon’s suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Take an evening stroll around the Bairro Alto to hear the soulful Fado music from traditional tabernas. Visit the classic clubs in Cais do Sodré or the trendy mega-clubs along the waterfront.

Berlin: The City of Love

You can’t tour Germany’s capital and cultural center, without treading knee-deep in history. Center of the infamous Nazi movement, Berlin was divided into two cities during the Cold War. The Holocaust Museum and the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall remind visitors of these past struggles. But present-day Berlin shines as a center of art and modern architecture, with stellar buildings such as the landmark Neue Nationalgalerie. Take the family to the 18th-century Brandenburg Gate—a classic symbol of reunification. The modern city’s combination of cheap rent and a creative spirit has edged it into cultural experimentation, ushering in adventurous new theater and music.

Rome: The Eternal City

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a must-see destination, with nearly 3,000 years of art, architecture and culture. Explore truly ancient ruins like the and the Roman Forum before heading into its museums and cathedrals to sample the world’s greatest art. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, both in Vatican City, to see masterpieces by Michelangelo and Donatello. And don’t miss the fabulous Museo e Galleria Borghese, with works by Raphael, and Titian. Rome—famed for la dolce vita lifestyle—is one of the top food and fine living cities in the world. Plan on indulging at al fresco eateries as well as strolling through the picturesque and tangled lanes in the historic center of this cosmopolitan city.

Copenhagen: The City of Spires

A royal capital city almost nine centuries old, Copenhagen perches on Denmark’s coastal islands, Zealand and Amager. Its cobbled streets create scenes right out of your childhood storybooks. The heartbeat of the town is the Indre By District, the site of the original walled city. Catch the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Slot, a group of 18th-century palaces that serve as a home to royalty. This is also the site of the Christiansborg parliament building as well as the museum and gardens of the Renaissance Rosenborg Castle. Take the family to the Tivoli Gardens, with its fun amusement rides, lush gardens and exotic architecture. Don’t miss a stroll by Langelinie Pier to say hello to one of Copenhagen’s most famous tourist attractions, the sculpture of The Little Mermaid.

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