Travelling to Europe is like opening a treasure chest. You never know what gems you’ll end up finding. Europe is one destination which has all the splendors of the world with thousands of years of history attached and preserved with them.
The continent is home to some of the most scenic cities of the world. Budapest, Prague, Athens, Venice are only some them which flourish with luscious landscapes and are blessed with an insightful past.
Many of the beautiful European cities are not only the travel destinations for adventurers but also for connoisseurs of art, history, wine, sports and many more. The tourist places all have a certain aura around them and leave memories that can be cherished for a lifetime.
Couples pack, backpackers travel solo so they can be at some of the most exciting tourist cities of the world. The Eiffel tower of Paris, The grand canal of Venice, The Coliseum of Rome, The unspoiled natural beauty of Iceland and many more attractions of Europe are all so marvelous in scenery, cultural essence and offer completely unique experiences.
So without much further adieu, here’s a list of the 21 best places in Europe to definitely see before you die.
1) Coliseum, Italy
Coliseum or Colosseum is an ancient Roman structure that was built in the center of Rome, Italy. It is an oval shaped amphitheater which is built using only concrete and sand is still the largest amphitheater in the world.
The structure used to accommodate more than 70000 spectators. Though built ages ago, the old structure still holds well and reflects rich and brilliant architecture of Roman Empire. Coliseum was used for the famous gladiatorial fights and other mock battles.
2) Eiffel Tower, France
If Paris is the city of Romance then Eiffel tower is its mascot. Known to be a must visit destination for love birds, it is an iconic monument which still holds the record for most visited paid structure.
Eiffel tower was built in honor of celebrating centenary of French revolution and it’s a visual marvel in terms of construction brilliance. The impact of Eiffel tower on the world was such that so many replicas were built in many parts of the world, the most famous being in Las Vegas, USA.
3) Blausee Lake, Switzerland
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Blausee Lake is the most picturesque lake in and around Switzerland. The color of the lake is deep blue and water is crystal-clear. The lake attracts so many tourists for its beautifully and naturally formed landscape.
The greenery around and ethereal blue water makes the place a spot to die for. You can walk around, see exotic fishes in the awe inducing lake, ride a boat or have a picnic around Blausee Lake.
The pictures taken around the lake will surely leave you with life time of memories.
4) Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland
Seljalandsfoss waterfall is located in southern part of Iceland and you can’t stop yourself from getting amazed when you look at it. It is a renowned waterfall in Iceland and is one of the masterpieces Mother Nature created herself.
There is a small cave behind the waterfall which allows you to walk around and lets us take breath-taking views of the fall. The night view of the waterfall is just amazing and cannot be expressed in words.
5) Seven Sisters Waterfall, Norway
The seven sisters waterfalls in Norway is very famous and is also listed as one of the world heritage sites by the UNESCO. Water falls through seven different streams and hence the name seven sisters. It gives a chilling experience when you pass by the seven sisters waterfalls on a boat or a ferry.
Like most places in Europe the seven sisters’ waterfalls will leave you mesmerized on what in life you have missed so far. Not only are the water streams beautiful they have a beautiful story to tell. Local folklore says that the seven sisters actually come alive and dance around the streams. Truly Magical!
6) Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle was built in 19th century on top of a hill in southwest Bavaria State of Germany. It was built as a retreat for then king Ludwig II but was open to public visiting after his death.
The palace is beautiful and a structural marvel that must have inspired so many palatial structures in Disney movies. The castle is often referred to as “The castle of the fairy-tale king”.
While the look of the castle resembles medieval style the decorative works inside were truly ahead of their time.
7) Acropolis, Greece
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Acropolis is an ancient structure built in Greece and is recognized as a cultural heritage by the UNESCO. This center of attraction in Athens which is often referred to as “The Acropolis” is a classical symbol of one of the greatest civilizations of the world.
It was built in the 5th century as a symbol of democracy after a victory against Persians. The architectural and sentimental values of the structure are so high that it still exists in today’s times attracting millions of tourists from worldwide.
8) Preikestolen, Norway
Preikestolen is steep cliff at almost 2000 ft. It has attracted hundreds of thousands of tourists since 1900’s. It is another nature’s miracle in Norway which is only growing in popularity year after year.
The walk to the site can be adventurous and steep at times but once the cliff is reached you can forget all about the world. The cliff looks upon green valleys and a beautiful river which makes it worth visiting.
9) Venice, Italy
Considered the most beautiful city in Europe, Venice constitutes a group of small islands that are all linked by bridges and drifted by canals. Venice is known for its beautiful artwork, architectural excellence and rich heritage.
Venice was once considered a very rich city with business rush for silk and grains. Today, it still draws huge crowds for its picturesque and quaint locations.
10) Stonehenge, England
We don’t everyday see structures that were built thousands of years ago; Stonehenge in United Kingdom blows away your mind in just a sight. Located in Wiltshire of England, Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument which is still protected as a cultural heritage site.
Stonehenge was a result of a culture which has no written records to address the history; many still assume some myths around it.
11) Vatican City, Rome
You cannot just roam around Europe and not visit Vatican City. The holy city deserves a brief mention in the list. Although Sistine chapel chiselled by the great Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512 is its most marvelous attraction, Vatican City has plethora of architectural wonders with copious amount of history attached to them.
It is hard to believe the city’s population is less than 1000 people but millions visit the place every year making it the most populous tourist place of Rome. Vatican City is home to cultural sites such as Sistine Chapel, Vatican museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Apart from the holy chapels there are so many gardens in the Vatican City that are surely worth your time.
12) Berlin, Germany
Berlin is one of the most dynamic and visited cities in the whole of Europe. Berlin is full of history as it was the centre for two world wars. The modern Berlin is cosmopolitan and is home to many luxury vehicle manufacturers.
Roaming around the colourful streets, vibrant night life, trips to cultural heritage sites are just a few reasons that make Berlin a perfect place to visit in Europe. Berlin also has world famous historical museums with so many stories to tell.
13) Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is second most populous city and the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region. It is one of the most popular tourist places in the country. Barcelona has strong roots in the Medieval era with lots of Gothic and Byzantine architecture on display from that period.
The city’s influence in media entertainment, fashion, science, culture and economic fairs makes the city a natural choice for travelling in Europe. Barcelona is also home to its football club FC Barcelona which is the second richest football club in the world.
14) Tower of London, England
Tower of London is one of the Queen’s palaces and is located on the bank of River Thames in central London. It was founded a thousand year’s back and still is rock solid, literally.
Once used as a prison, Tower of London served as a palace for most of its history. Tower of London is still home to Crown jewels of England. In the historical wars, taking over the tower of London was considered as capturing of the country and of the empire.
The tower was once damaged during the Second World War but was quickly fixed. It truly serves as a reminder of the glory days of the English empire.
15) Prague, Czech Republic
Prague known fondly as a “The City of a Hundred Spires” is the capital city of Czech republic and one of the largest cities of the country. Prague was once capital of Holy Roman Empire. There are many attractions in Prague such as Old town square, Charles Bridge, Prague castle and Jewish quarter.
16) Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is the capital city of Netherlands and famous for its artistic heritage and quaint lifestyle. Bicycle rides along the canals are something to be experienced while you are there.
Most of the tourists to Amsterdam are students who visit there to experience the recreational activities offered by the city.
Touted to be fashion capital of the country, Amsterdam is home to several fashion labels of the industry. There are so many museums in Amsterdam that are worth a visit including the world renowned Van Gogh Museum.
17) Vienna, Austria
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Vienna is one of the largest cities and also the capital city of Austria. Vienna is known for its rich living and high quality lifestyle. It is also rated as one of the most livable cities not just in Europe but in the world.
Once a home to genius men such as Beethoven, Sigmund Freud and Mozart; the city has a profound artistic and glorious history.
18) Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is known for its luscious landscapes, traditions, history and culture. Many of the sites in Tuscany are recognized as the cultural heritage sites by the UNESCO and are being protected by them. Tuscany has some of the finest Renaissance era culture and architecture.
The visit to Cathedral of Pisa is considered once in a lifetime opportunity. Last but the best part of Tuscany is its wine culture. Tuscany is home to many popular wines including Chianti. If you are in Tuscany do experience the wine tasting.
19) Madrid, Spain
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Madrid is one of the biggest cities of Spain and is the capital city. The city is known for its simplicity and its cultural uniqueness. The politics, culture and fashion of Spain is also centered in Madrid.
Madrid is home of one of the most popular football clubs Real Madrid and the stadium Santiago Bernabéu. The infrastructure of Madrid is very unique and modern.
The narrow streets, friendly neighbourhoods and very calm lifestyle make the city very amiable and a frequent travel destination for tourists.
If you are in Madrid, you can get the best of both worlds by spending some time at the museums to observe history and modern art and spend nights at the popular clubs to experience the thriving urban lifestyle.
20) Copenhagen, Denmark
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Copenhagen is the capital city of Denmark with deep roots in history of Europe. The city has a laid back feel and continental culture which makes you feel at ease as soon as you enter it.
There are so many tourist places in Copenhagen such as Tivoli gardens, Hamlet’s castle, little mermaid statue and many more which makes the visit to Copenhagen a must.
21) Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is the most populous and the most popular city of Turkey. Istanbul consists of a blend of east and west cultures and is a perfect tourist place for its variety of the Persian influenced structures, cultures and above all, for the delicious food.
Istanbul is considered historic cultural hub and is popular for so many museums, Grand bazaar, so many shopping centers and the international music festivals which are conducted every year. Known for its upscale restaurants, Istanbul is also famous for the sea food.
Experience a wide variety of electrifying nightclubs, modern art galleries, and so many shopping choices if you plan to visit Istanbul.
