GoTraveLab

Bucket List Worthy: Our Top 10 Picks for the Best European Capitals

There is a reason why Europe features at the top of everyone’s travel list. This continent has a rich history, exquisite architecture, breathtaking landscapes and grandeur that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Being the epicentre of the Western world, Europe has played a significant role in shaping the world we see today. Visit any European capital city, and you’ll be bedazzled by the monuments, the food, and the sights you can see.

However, trying to pack all of Europe in one trip is one of the biggest mistakes even seasoned travellers often make. Every European city and destination has its own charm, and it’s highly recommended to take the time to explore each destination on its own. After all, we’re not in the race to check off items on our bucket list but to take a trip to relax and unwind, exploring the best of Europe, right?

To help you plan an unforgettable Europe trip, here’s a list of the top 10 capital cities in Europe – it includes off-beat activities you can do at these destinations and the nearby places you can visit to help you explore the best of what Europe has to offer.

So hop on, and let’s begin our journey into the top Europe capitals you cannot miss out on.

10 Excellent European Capital to Plan Your Vacation

1. Amsterdam

One of the most visited European capital cities, Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands. It’s known for its unique cultural heritage, picturesque canals, and vibrant nightlife.

Even though the city was bombed during World War II and almost destroyed, several of its historical monuments have been preserved. It recovered from the postwar years to become what it is today. The city’s historic centre is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for its quaint cafes, stunning historical and architectural wonders, and boutique shops.

In addition to its coffee shops and cafes, the city offers a variety of unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. For example, the city has several cafes and shops that sell cannabis products legally in designated areas. You can also visit the Red Light District, famous for its adult entertainment and attracting thousands of tourists worldwide.

Apart from its diverse culture, you can explore the entire city by taking a leisurely stroll or riding a bike along its charming canals, which date back to the 17th century. The city was ranked the 2nd most bike-friendly city globally, with hundreds of miles of dedicated cycling lanes.

Places to visit

• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank House
• Rijksmuseum
• Stedelijk Museum
• Vondelpark
• NEMO Science Museum
• The Oude Church
• Heineken Brewery
• Artis Zoo

Nearby places to see

If you have a day to spare during your trip to Amsterdam, consider exploring some of the nearby towns and attractions, which include:

• Rotterdam, a modern city known for its impressive architecture
• Zaanse Schans, a charming village just outside Zaandam known for its windmills and traditional Dutch houses
• Geithoorn Village, a great spot for a relaxing boat tour or to rent a bicycle and explore the countryside
• Alkmaar Cheese Factory, to learn about the history of cheese-making in the Netherlands and sample some options

Minimum duration: 4 nights

2. Paris

The capital of France is at the top of almost everyone’s list, especially since it’s famous for being one of the most romantic cities in the world. Paris is full of monuments with stunning architecture, dreamlike cafes, and of course, the Eiffel Tower. The place oozes style and romance and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage.

Paris has several buildings, districts, and bridges with unique charm and character for those interested in history and architecture. It’s also a treasure trove of museums, galleries, and theatres. The Louvre Museum, with its iconic glass pyramid, has one of the world’s most famous art collections, including the most-seen painting in the world, the Mona Lisa.

Besides its rich history, Paris is also known for being the world’s fashion capital, with several designer boutiques and shopping districts. You can visit the famous Champs-Elysees and shop from the most renowned fashion houses, including Chanel, Dior, Saint Laurent, and D&G.
Overall, it’s a city you cannot miss, especially if you’re planning a European trip.

Places to visit

• Eiffel Tower
• Lourve Museum
• Cathedral Notre-Dame De Paris
• Arc De Triomphe
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Palace of Versailles
• Louis Vuitton Foundation
• Sainte Chapelle
• Palais Garnier
• Musse d’Orsay
• Disneyland Paris

Nearby places to see

In addition to exploring Paris, you can complement your French trip by visiting some of the nearby locations, like:

• Versailles, a stunning palace that was once the residence of the French royal family
• Vaux-Le-Vicomte, an exquisite chateau that was built in the 17th century
• Troyes, a medieval town that’s known for its half-timbered houses and Gothic churches
• Reims, a city that’s famous for its stunning cathedrals
• Loire Valley, the local countryside where you can visit several chateaus that are surrounded by beautiful gardens and vineyards
• Chantilly, a charming town that’s known for its historic castle and stunning parklands

Minimum duration: 4 nights

3. Lisbon

A city rich with exquisite architecture and vibrant culture, Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal and is located on the Atlantic coast. It offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and river Tagus, with historic districts that will transport you to medieval times.

The city has narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque houses. The aflame and Bairro Alto will transport you into the past, and you can even explore the world-class museums and galleries in the city.

In addition to its architecture, which offers a range of Gothic and modern styles, you can explore the city through its iconic yellow trams and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

Places to visit

• Belem Tower
• Castelo de Jorge
• Jeronimos Monastery
• Prava do Comerico
• LxFactory
• Oceanario de Lisboa
• National Tile Museum
• Carmo Convent
• Parque Eduardo VII

Nearby places to see

If you want to add a one-day trip to Lisbon, you can explore several options around Portugal, such as:

• Sintra, a charming town known for its colourful palaces and lush gardens
• Porto, a city with rich history and medieval architecture

Minimum duration: 4 nights

4. Rome

Once truly the capital city of Europe and the seat of emperors, Rome is today the capital city of Italy. The city is steeped in history and is full of ancient landmarks and stunning architectural wonders. Also known as the ‘eternal city’, it houses world-class museums and galleries that you can’t miss out on when visiting Europe.

From its famous Colosseums, Roman Forum, and Pantheon to the Vatican City, this Italian capital is a goldmine for history lovers. For those interested in architecture, the city has a range of styles to admire, from ancient Roman to Baroque fountains and churches and modern buildings that are a delight to look at. Traditional Italian dishes, vibrant cafes, and museums make it a must-visit destination in Europe.

Places to visit

• Colosseum
• Trevi Fountain
• Pantheon
• Piazza Navona
• St Peter’s Basilica
• Castel Sant’Angelo
• Vatican Museums
• Roman Forum
• Spanish Steps
• Sistine Chapel
• Capitoline Museum

Nearby places to see

• In addition to Rome, you can also add a few nearby destinations to your itinerary, such as:
  Florance, to see its magnificent art and architecture
• Pisa, so you can click a picture with the famous leaning tower of Pisa
• Tivoli, for its Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa
• Anzio, a seaside town known for its seafood and wine
• Vatican City, located very close to Rome, with multiple monuments and historic buildings

Minimum duration: 4 nights

5. Berlin

The German capital is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern touch, making it one of the top destinations in Europe. Its tumultuous past has shaped Berlin, and today has a blend of modern and ancient wonders. The city can be explored on a bike or car and is full of museums, historic landmarks, galleries, and trendy cafes.

From the Nazi World War II history to the fall of the Berlin Wall during the Cold War days, Berlin has always been a spot that’s rooted in history. The city houses five of Germany’s most important museums, and the East Side Gallery features the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall. In addition to the Berlin Wall, you can see Soviet-inspired neoclassicism in buildings like Alexanderplatz, the TV tower at Fernsehturm, and other sites in Eastern parts of Berlin.

Berlin is also known for its hippie culture and trendy nightlife – you can explore neighbourhoods like the Kreuzberg, Graefekiez and Neukolln that embody the city’s vibrant street cafes and club scene.

Places to visit

• Brandenburg Gate
• Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
• Berlin Cathedral
• Berliner Fernsehturm
• Pergamonmuseum
• Charlottenburg Palace
• Reichstag Building
• Alexanderplatz
• Berlin Wall Memorial
• East Side Gallery
• Mauerpark
• Museum Island

Nearby places to see

• When planning a trip to Berlin, don’t forget to also include the following:
  Hamburg, a bustling port city with lively nightlife, museums, and an impressive cityscape
• Szczecin, a charming old town and a rich cultural heritage just across the border in Poland

Minimum duration: 4 nights

6. Vienna

Vienna, the capital city of Austria, is a fantastic place to visit for its rich history, stunning architecture, and classical music. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with the city’s imperial past and the blend of old-world charm with modernity. Vienna has so much to explore, with numerous landmarks, museums, galleries, and trendy neighbourhoods.

One of the best ways to see Vienna is by taking a leisurely walk around the city centre, which will let you admire the stunning architecture of the Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Schönbrunn Palace. Don’t miss out on exploring the beautiful parks and gardens, like the Burggarten and the Volksgarten, which provide a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love Vienna’s traditional Austrian dishes, such as Mozartkugel, Sachertorte, Strudel, Kaiserschmarrn, and Wiener Schnitzel. In addition, coffee culture is a significant part of Viennese life; you’ll find numerous coffeehouses throughout the city.

Music lovers must visit Vienna, home to numerous concert halls and venues, including the Wiener Musikverein and the Vienna State Opera. The world-famous Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the Vienna Boys’ Choir are also found here.

Places to visit

• The Homburg
• Albertina
• St Stephen’s Cathedral
• Museum of Natural History
• Vienna Operahouse
• Schonbrunn Zoo
• Schonbrunn Palace
• Rathaus
• Prater
• MuseumsQuartier
• Karlsruhe

Nearby places to see

Along with Vienna, you can also explore:

• Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is just an hour away by boat or bus and offers a stunning medieval old town and numerous historical landmarks
• Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music
• Grinzing, known for its picturesque vineyards and Heurigen (wine taverns)
• Graz, which is known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and well-preserved architecture from multiple eras

Minimum duration: 4 nights

7. Reykjavik

One of the most visited European capital cities, Reykjavik is Iceland’s capital and offers so much for travellers of all types. From unique natural wonders to a hustling and friendly culture, the city will surely enthral you.

Reykjavik can be explored by taking a walking tour, which allows visitors to see some of its ancient architectural wonders, like the iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the numerous parks and green spaces in the city. The city is also known for its museums and galleries, home to the National Museum of Iceland and the Reykjavik Art Museum, featuring Icelandic and international art.

But the best thing to do when visiting Iceland is to explore its outdoor adventures. Be it glacier hiking, horse riding, whale watching, or chasing the Northern Lights, there’s a lot you can do when visiting Iceland and its capital.

Places to visit

• Sun Voyager
• Perlan
• Hallgrimskirkja
• National Museum of Iceland
• Harpan
• The Settlement Exhibition
• Blue Lagoon
• Aurora Reykjavik – The Northern Lights Center
• Reykjavik Maritime Museum
• Whales of Iceland

Nearby places to see

Iceland is a destination that has much to offer, and we highly recommend adding a day or two to your visit so you can explore nearby locations like:

• Golden Circle will take you to see geysers, waterfalls, and national parks
• Jokulsarlon, which offers a breathtaking view of icebergs and seals
• Oaxrarfoss Waterfall, which offers a picturesque setting surrounded by lava fields

Minimum duration: 4 nights

8. Prague

The capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague, is well-renowned for its ancient architecture and cultural landmarks. It has been called the “city of hundred spires” for its numerous Gothic and Baroque buildings. The city has a rich history, from being the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia to the residence of the Holy Roman Emperors, and has also seen World Wars and the post-war communist era.

The city has several attractions like the Prague Castle, Jewish Quarter, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square, and the city’s historical centre is included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. Its rich history, art, and culture make it a must-visit, with numerous concert halls and venues, including the Municipal House, Prague State Opera, and Prague Philharmonic Orchestra.

Places to visit

• Charles Bridge
• Prague Castle
• Old Town Square
• St Vitus Cathedral
• Prague Astronomical Clock
• Prague Zoo
• Dancing House
• Municipal House
• Vysehrad
• Lennon Wall
• Strahov Monastery

Nearby places to see

Along with this Czech city, some popular destinations that are ideal to be explored together for a 1-day trip include:

• Pilsen, to explore the historic Pilsner brewery
• Nuremberg, known for its well-preserved old town and medieval castle

Minimum duration: 4 nights

9. Copenhagen

The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, is a modern city known for its stunning architecture, vibrant living, and culture. The city has topped the world’s Most Liveable Cities Index multiple times and is known for its cycling community, which prefers to commute by bicycles. Its extensive cycling paths make it the most bike-friendly city anywhere in the world, and it’s the perfect way to explore the city’s stunning architecture.

With museums, art galleries, and stunning buildings, Copenhagen is not just known for its modern buildings but also for its rich history. From the National Museum of Denmark, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Amalienborg Palace, Tivoli Gardens, and other landmarks, you can easily spend days exploring the sights and sounds of the city. Plus, the city is home to many parks and gardens, making it the perfect blend of history, culture, and modern innovation.

Places to visit

• Tivoli Gardens
• Rosenberg Castle
• Amalienborg
• Christiansborg Palace
• Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
• The Little Mermaid
• National Museum of Denmark
• The Round Tower
• Copenhagen Zoo
• Botanical Garden
• Copenhagen Opera House
• Frederik’s Church
• Nyhavan

Nearby places to see

These are some popular destinations to explore along with Copenhagen, Denmark:

• Skagen, a picturesque seaside town known for its sandy beaches, charming yellow houses, and art scene.
• Aarhus, to visit the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and the Den Gamle By open-air museum.
• Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, with numerous attractions dedicated to the famous fairy tale author, such as the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and the Hans Christian Andersen House.
• Helsingor, a historic town located across the Oresund strait from Sweden, known for its Kronborg Castle, which inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

Minimum duration: 4 nights

10. Oslo

The capital city of Norway, Oslo, is known for its stunning natural scenery and modern architecture. The city is situated on the Oslofjord, which is surrounded by lush forests and pristine lakes, making it a must-visit for anyone coming to Europe.

In addition to its unique architecture, Oslo can be best explored by taking a boat tour along the fjord. This offers a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline and surrounding nature reserves. The city also has numerous green scopes that are a must-visit, like Fronger Park and Vigeland Sculpture Park. Additionally, the Viking and Norwegian heritage of the city has a lot to offer, including world-class museums housing Viking ships and artefacts from all over Europe.

Places to visit

• Akershus Fortress
• The Vigeland Park
• The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History
• Viking Ship Museum
• Holmenkollen Ski Museum
• The Royal park
• The Farm Museum
• The Norwegian Opera & Ballet

Nearby places to see

In addition to Oslo, you can take a short one-day tour to some of the nearby locations in Norway like:

• Vestfold, known for its scenic coastlines and historical landmarks
• Akershus, where you can visit the Akershus Fortress and learn about Norway’s rich history
• Lake Moose in Lillehammer, a popular spot for fishing and boating

Minimum duration: 4 nights

Make Your European Dream a Reality

These top European capital cities are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring the splendours of Europe. Besides the capitals of Europe, there are picturesque countrysides and quaint towns that are equally enthralling. These places also offer some beautiful landscapes with their own culture and character.

Whether it’s a dreamy honeymoon, a romantic gateway, or a fun time with friends, Europe has something to offer everyone. So, contact our expert holiday planners today, and plan your next dream vacation with GoTraveLab.