10 most beautiful countries in Europe. Top beautiful cities in Europe

As you know, I have been traveling the world for many years, and I like Europe the most. I visited the capitals of all the countries of the Old World, and I visited small towns in large numbers. And I got the idea to rank the most beautiful cities in Europe, but if I relied only on my opinion, then the rating would become biased, because. Everyone has their favorite cities. Therefore, I created a poll among experienced independent travelers at VK.com, which was designed to form an objective rating based on several hundred votes. Now I present to you this rating.

The most beautiful cities in Europe

No. 1. Rome

No. 2. Paris

City of romantics. Kissing couples can be found on every corner in this city, and the smell of flowers can be smelled everywhere. Everyone will find entertainment here, because there is simply a myriad of them here - from sightseeing to week-long trips to fashion boutiques. Well, the main attraction of Paris - the Eiffel Tower - attracts millions of travelers from all over the world.

No. 3. Venice

The famous city on the water. Canals replace roads, and only in some places there are paved squares and footpaths familiar to us. Many make the rest here varied and interesting, and gondoliers (local taxi drivers) can show anyone who wants most of Venice from their gondola, sailing along numerous waterways.

No. 4. Florence

One of the most "cultural" cities in Europe. Here are the works of the great artists and sculptors of Europe, so connoisseurs of high art can stay here for weeks. But the city is famous not only for its art, but also for its beauty, which in the Middle Ages served as its standard among settlements.

No. 5. Istanbul

The largest city in Turkey, the former Constantinople is the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. This place is notable for the fact that Europe and Asia are connected here. Modern technologies intertwined with ancient traditions, skyscrapers coexist with ancient sights.

No. 6. London

The capital of Great Britain. Modern, high-tech and beautiful, it attracts travelers from both mainland Europe and North America. Here you can do anything: go to opera houses, shop in fashion boutiques, explore the city from double-decker buses, or just drink a cup of English tea.

No. 7. Prague

Beautiful architecture is what distinguishes this city from all the others. Cultural heritage it's just huge here. Although the Czech Republic does not have access to the sea, you can enjoy Prague itself for days on end, its interesting streets, the atmosphere of calm and relaxation. The site has excellent material about, I recommend that you now follow the link and read it, you will learn a lot of important and interesting things about Prague, and most importantly, why you should choose this particular city for your next trip.

No. 8. Vein

One of the best cities in Europe. It combines German pragmatism and Eastern European relaxation. Numerous luxurious palaces make this city very attractive for tourists.

No. 9. Edinburgh

Capital of Scotland. One of the most unusual places in Europe. It is here that the Edinburgh Festival, the largest in terms of the number of participants in the world, is held at the end of summer.

No. 10. Bruges

A town in Belgium with a population of just over 100,000 people. Visiting this city, you might think that you are in a fairy tale: numerous swans swim calmly along the canals, the houses are unusual and attractive, similar to gingerbread houses, and the castle is the center of the city. A very interesting place.

Seeing Paris and dying is no longer fashionable. Yes, the French capital is certainly beautiful and elegant, the Eiffel Tower is amazing, and the Champs-Elysées is beautiful, but all this has already been advertised a million times and is densely dotted with tourists.

But in Europe there are enough other beautiful and more peaceful places to visit. Having studied the opinions of experienced travelers with The World Pursuit and Condé Nast Traveler, as well as from personal experience, we have compiled list of the most beautiful cities in Europe. This is not a rating in the traditional sense, since each city is beautiful in its own way, and no photo can convey all the charm. This must be seen firsthand.

We have also prepared a list with photos and descriptions of amazing places.

The capital of Tuscany and one of the most interesting places in Italy. You must add this city to your Italian itinerary if it is not already there. Florence is renowned for its world-class cuisine, museums, art and scenic surroundings.

Florentine architecture beckons you to get lost in the historic center of the city. And history buffs will probably go crazy as Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is filled with historical treasures. Say "hello" to one of the symbols of the Republic of Florence - the statue of David by Michelangelo Buonarroti.

As you walk through the narrow cobbled stone streets lined with marble basilicas, dark chapels, gas lanterns and charming frescoes, little seems to have changed over the centuries. In short, in Florence you really have the opportunity to get lost in time.

Oia, Santorini, Greece

If you believe Greek mythology, then Santorini is a clod of earth that Triton, the son of Neptune, gave to the Argonauts. They gave the island the name Kallisti. Currently, the pearl of the island is the famous Greek resort town of Oia (or Oia). It is filled with whitewashed buildings topped with bright blue roofs. The peculiarity of the island, which is actually an active marine volcano, has left its mark on urban architecture. Many of the houses were dug into the volcanic rock on the cliff face, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Oia is also famous for its amazing sunsets, which can be seen almost every day, as there are few cloudy days. The city is loved by both Greeks and foreign tourists, so it is better to visit this paradise in early autumn or late spring, when there are fewer people.

Keep in mind that there are almost no nightlife in the city, this place is ideal for a relaxing holiday the whole family.

Budapest, Hungary

This city is nicknamed the "Paris of the East" because of its beautiful nature and unique architecture. The capital of Hungary is safe, young and unlike any other European city.

"Highlight" of the local nightlife are unique ruin pubs. They are located in abandoned buildings from the Second World War, in the Erzsébetváros quarter. These pubs usually do not have doors, but there are high tables at which guests can have a drink or two and go to another place. Many ruin pubs are open even during the day, where you can drink coffee and even dine.

Budapest is also famous for its thermal baths, which you can find all over the city. You can swim there even in winter.

Venice, Italy

You can love or hate Venice, but both do not deny its popularity. It is one of the most beautiful historical cities on the planet, but it is also one of the most besieged by tourists places in the world.

The Sinking City is a network of 118 islands connected by bridges. The buildings here are old, and if you manage to get away from the crowd, it seems that you have arrived five centuries ago. It's pretty surreal.

Unfortunately, Venice's canals are notorious for containing a lot of waste, and in summer the smell from them can ruin your holiday experience. However, during the cooler months, there are fewer tourists, less waste, and no bad smell. So we can say that Venice is one of the most beautiful European cities except during the summer months.

Bruges, Belgium

This small, verdant city in Northern Belgium is a stark contrast to bustling Brussels. The best way to see all its beauty is to rent a bike and ride along the charming old houses and canals. If the day is sunny and warm, you can easily take a canal boat tour or head to the Koeleweimolen and Sint-Janshuismolen mill mills.

Bruges is one of the best places for beer lovers. Take a guided tour of the Half Moon Brewery for an excellent brew.

Edinburgh, Scotland

It is a great alternative for those who want to explore a city that is no less interesting, but less gloomy, than London.

The center of Edinburgh is divided into two parts: a chaotic building on a series of medieval streets in the Old Town and the beautifully built buildings of the New Town in the classicist style. Many buildings in the Old Town are covered with soot, which is a historical landmark in itself. After all, it has remained since medieval times, when it was heated with coal and firewood.

Edinburgh is messy and full of contrasts in many ways, but that's part of its charm. It offers everything from world-class luxury hotels to fine dining, bustling pubs, designer shops and shops selling kilts, whiskey and souvenirs.

Helsinki, Finland

It is surprising that such a modern European city is very close to nature. He has a large number of green space and the unique Temppeliaukio Church, nestled in a natural rock. Unusual architecture allows you to achieve an incredible acoustic effect in the church hall.

And not far from the center of Helsinki is located Botanical Garden, in which a whole system of artificial ponds was created, rose gardens and greenhouses were laid out.

Kotor, Montenegro

If you like seascapes but don't like noisy crowds, then Kotor is exactly the place to look into. This city, the first mention of which dates back to 168 BC. BC, saw both Romans and Serbs, was under the control of the Venetian Republic, and was the scene of fierce battles between Austria-Hungary and Montenegro. Now it is a quiet and peaceful place with just over 13,000 people.

It is surrounded by stone walls and a moat, and inside the city walls you will find many churches, a maze of clean streets, stone houses and quiet piazzas.

Landscapes around Kotor are very reminiscent of norwegian fjords thanks to the natural beauty of the bay. But if you want truly fantastic views, don't be lazy to go to the tiny town of Perast (12 km from Kotor), which has the most beautiful bay in Europe. Perast was once a rich port city, and now it is called the city of millionaires, because each building in it costs more than a million euros. And according to rumors, there are estates of many Russian and foreign politicians and celebrities.

Vienna, Austria

If you are a connoisseur of culture and art, then you simply must make a trip to Vienna. The noble charm of this city is made up of many beautiful components: from the State Opera (the largest opera house in the country) to the majestic Musikverein concert hall, from the magnificent Hofburg palace complex to the Neo-Gothic Town Hall (town hall building).

Stroll through the vast parks or marvel at the creations of the great masters at the Museum of Fine Arts. Do not forget to visit the Prater with your children - the Viennese version of Disneyland (albeit without) - and enjoy the taste of schnitzel.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The carefree and fun city of Amsterdam needs no introduction. It is known as the "Venice of the North" because of the hundreds of canals and boats everywhere. If you are traveling as a couple, you can go for a romantic walk on the water.

There is interesting places for lovers of history, architecture, parties, tasty food, shopping, art and even carnal entertainment. But the beauty of this city lies not only in entertainment and channels, it is also in beautiful houses. Many of them are equipped with lifting hooks, with the help of which bulky loads were lifted up.

If you're looking for traditional sights, check out the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, the Maritime Museum and the Van Gogh Museum. In the evening, take a walk along the Python Bridge, curved like a snake's body, and enjoy its view in the light of the lights.

All the cities represented in our top 10 are worth visiting. However, there are no ugly cities in the world. Each of them has its own charm, it would be a desire to find it.

Condé Nast Traveler collected hundreds of thousands of votes for Europe's favorite cities in its 2017 Readers' Choice poll.

The survey has confirmed for the eighth time that the most the best place the Austrian city of Vienna is considered to be a residence.

Vienna, Austria

Artistic, sophisticated, and largely shaped by musical and intellectual influences, the Austrian capital of Vienna exudes culture. This is the best part of Europe.

Have dinner to get a figurative idea of royal family in Schönbrunn, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, and also get a real taste of Sachertorte, chocolate cake, which is one of culinary specialties cities. Just don't forget to ask for it with cream schlaag.

Florence, Italy

Although Rome is the symbol of Italy, and Milan also has a strong cosmopolitan influence, Florence remains an unrivaled corner of Italy thanks to its magnificent art and architecture. In addition to being considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, the city is also full of modern buildings. Be sure to visit La Strozzina Contemporary Art Center in Florence.

Bruges, Belgium

Featuring cobbled streets and canals, most of the impeccably preserved old town of Bruges was built between the 12th and 15th centuries.

Visit the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo's Madonna and Child, or sit in a cafe and admire the view of the Markt, historical square downtown. Be sure to treat yourself to Chez Albert waffles.

Barcelona, ​​Spain

Immerse yourself in Catalan history at El Born Center Cultural or visit the street art theater in trendy El Raval. For a taste of the local cuisine, visit the Enigma restaurant or one of the trendiest restaurants, Ferran Adrià.

Lucerne, Switzerland

With its covered bridges, tower buildings and colorful old town, Lucerne is the only thing to say about Switzerland.

The Swiss Alps are visible directly from the city. Walk along famous city Kapellbrücke, the oldest covered bridge in Europe, and sip a home-brewed beer near the Brouwery Town Hall.

To try these traditional dishes Alfalfa like veal with cream sauce and rösti, head to the Wirtshaus Galliker. This establishment has been run by over four generations of the Galliker family.

Paris, France

What is Europe without Paris? This city needs no introduction. It will be enough to recall such sights as the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Sacré-Coeur, the Rodin Museum, the Pompidou Center, Saint-Germain.

The city has gained fame as one of the most beautiful in the world. Dine the way the French do at the Bastille in Chez-Pol or stroll among the statues in the elegant Luxembourg Gardens. Stay at the sophisticated Hôtel Plaza Athénée or the Hotel de Crillon, which opened in September 2017 after a four-year renovation.

Salzburg, Austria

Made famous by Mozart, classical Salzburg is divided by the Salzach River. Pedestrian Old city makes up the left bank, and the buildings of the 19th century are located on the right bank.

Visit Bräustübl zu Mülln, Austria's largest beer hall, where beer is poured directly from wooden barrels and can be served alongside traditional Schmankerlgang local dishes.

Madrid, Spain

The magic of Madrid is felt on foot. Visit the city's museums or sit down for a drink at La Alemana, a historic bar once frequented by Ava Gardner and Ernest Hemingway.

To feel everyday Spanish life in this lively capital, browse the market at Mercado San Antone and Mercado de San Fernando.

Nuremberg, Germany

There is no shortage of picturesque towns in Germany, but Nuremberg stands out for its excellent mix of modern and old. Once the "unofficial" capital of the Holy Roman Empire and an early capital of science and invention, the city of Nuremberg is today best known for its museums.

Rome, Italy

After the necessary visits to the Pantheon and the Colosseum, sip an espresso at the Sant "Eustachio cafe or become a visitor to Settimio al Pellegrino. When you ring the doorbell, you will be greeted and informed that the owner's wife has prepared for the day.

Munich, Germany

The Bavarian metropolis is quite noisy and without drunken revelry. In addition to being considered an accessible historical center, the city continues to attract travelers with its sumptuous parks, fine dining, and up-and-coming art museums.

Budapest, Hungary

Picturesque Budapest is full of beautiful corners. Explore the culture of the Hungarian capital's spa with its thermal baths built in the 16th and 17th centuries, and be sure to visit the Kávéház cafe. A night walk along the bridge on the chains of Széchenyi over the Danube River will offer you magnificent views.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

windmills, bike rides, famous artist Van Gogh and the canals are part of Amsterdam's legendary charm. But the Dutch capital is more than its most obvious associations.

Sip a drink at the Droog, a restored 17th-century hotel, or sample fine dining at De Kas Restaurant.

Cologne, Germany

The city, which is 2000 years old, is located on the banks of the Rhine. It features Gothic architecture. Visit twelve Romanesque churches, join the annual literary festivals and visit the Ludwig Museum, which contains one of the most important collections of contemporary art in Europe.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon for a long time has been one of the most underrated cities in Europe, but it looks like its allure has finally been revealed.

The city will impress you with a major museum of art, architecture and technology, dozens of restored and landscaped public squares, several high-rise buildings, a sprawling new cruise terminal, and many shops, studios and cultural venues.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Growing beer culture, some of the world's best restaurants, royal history and special pedestrian- and bike-friendly areas make Copenhagen an attractive Scandinavian capital.

London, England

Although the double-decker buses, iconic red telephone booths and beer pubs remain hallmark the capital of the UK, last years The city is undergoing major changes.

Book a table at Brawn in Bethnal Green, visit a show in Almeida. This is a performance space located on the former railway station in Islington. Visit Westminster and decide how many of the best cocktail bars in the city you can put on your list.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a unique capital Western Europe. Where else can you find a medieval old town, an extinct volcano, the Royal Castle And " New town" In one place? Explore the recently refurbished National Museum of Scotland (particularly its art, fashion and design), dine in the Timberjar.

Bergen, Norway

Norway's second largest city, Bergen is known for its pretty harbour, the colorful Bryggen quarter and the "seven mountains" that surround the city. The city is a center of culture.

One of the biggest events in Norway is the Bergen International Festival, which has been held here every year since 1953. Every spring, the event showcases international and Norwegian music, dance, literature, art, folklore and much more.

Students make up 10% of the city's population. This means that the city, unlike the country's capital Oslo, breathes youth.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is one of the most beautiful capitals in the world. This is not just a picturesque city, but the cultural, political and economic center of Sweden. Walk along the narrow stone pavement, admire the colorful embankment of the city.

Although many travelers spend most of their time in the medieval centre, Stockholm is actually made up of 14 islands in the archipelago, making it ideal for hopping from Fjäderholmarna, which is just 20 minutes away by boat.

Today, the phrase said by the writer and photographer Ilya Ehrenburg has become winged: "To see and die." But in fact, in Europe, in addition to Paris (as well as Rome and Naples, from where the “legs” of this saying grow), there are so many beautiful places that half a lifetime is not enough to see and study them. We at TravelAsk decided to make our selection of the most fascinating places in Europe that you need to see before you die. And they are so beautiful that you will definitely want to pack your bags for the trip!

Galesnjak Island, Croatia

Welcome to the island of love! A few kilometers from Zadar there is an amazing island in the shape of a heart, it is called Galesnjak. The island is very small (only 130 square meters) and completely uninhabited. Imagine what an excellent journey you can take here, or fly over the island on hot-air balloon!

Hallstatt village, Austria

This wonderful Austrian village of just 800 people is so beautiful that it has been replicated in China. It is located near Salzburg, and has been known since the beginning of the 14th century.

Mont Saint Michel, France