Best Cities in Europe for a Dream Vacation

As a continent fostering multicultural and multilingual citizens, every country and city in Europe has its own identity and traditions. With a diverse background comes the melting pot of different flavors, from the pizza and pasta of Italy to the fresh seafood of Greece.

The concept of visiting Europe at the wrong time does not exist, it is a year-round paradise featuring several counties and cities to escape to depending upon the climate, crowd, and celebrations.

It is finally time to live out your fairytale by visiting the Czech Republic, featuring the most castles than any other country in Europe, and while you're at it, why not wander through the charming streets of the other European gems on this list?

1. Athens, Greece

Considered the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization with iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens gives off timeless and historic vibes with ancient ruins, legendary figures, and rich culture.

The city might take you back in time, but it boasts a nightlife like no other, featuring rooftop lounges and happening streets with open-air performances in the Odeon of Herodes Atticus under the Acropolis because nothing says ancient history like cocktails and a DJ set next to a 2,000-year-old theater. Additionally, it provides a perfect starting point for island hopping your way to Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

2. Paris, France

It isn't called the City of Love without a reason. Paris is the epitome of romance, fashion, art and food. An inspiring city visited and known for its sophistication and glamour. Home to many fashion brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Hermès, Paris continues to be a global epicenter of luxury, style, and haute couture.

As the Art Capital of the world, the Louvre Museum sits grandly in the city exhibiting countless masterpieces including the Mona Lisa. It is a must-visit centuries-old city with magnificent buildings, cobblestone streets, and a highlight of Europe packages from India.

3. Rome, Italy

Rome is an eternal city known for its otherworldly architecture, ancient history, art, and food. It is around 2500 years old and gifted with ancient ruins, temples, and monuments like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, all narrating the story of how Rome wasn't built in a day. It was the heart and soul of the Roman Empire, one of the most powerful civilisations in history.

Romans embrace la dolce vita, savoring long meals, late-night gelato, and espresso in historic piazzas because rushing is simply a foreign concept. Situated in Vatican City, the city also houses St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church.

4. Monaco

It may be the second smallest country in the world but Monaco is one of the most luxurious and wealthiest places in the world. Monaco hosts one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races and the Monte Carlo Casino featured in James Bond movies. With a rich history and Mediterranean climate it makes up for the perfect sophisticated retreat, even more so for the millionaires thanks to its low tax regime.

The Monaco Yacht Show is one of the most elite yacht exhibitions facilitated annually at Port Hercules, Monaco displaying superyachts with a combined bank balance that could buy a whole country.

5. London, England

A city where history, global influences, and unpredictable weather collide. The diversity of places ranging from royalty to underground gigs to touring London on double-decker buses to the Tube delays, this city keeps you on your toes.

London is a city that calls tourists from every corner of the world to reminisce about strolling along the Thames, witnessing the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, getting lost in the halls of the British Museum, and experiencing the timeless charm of its iconic black cabs and red buses.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Widely known for Antoni Gaudí’s Architectural Marvels, one of them being the infamous Sagrada Familia. Deep history is rooted within the medieval alleys and historic buildings of the Gothic Quarter unveiling Barcelona's past.

Harbouring Mediterranean vibes, the city sits along a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches such as Barceloneta and catches fresh seafood that will make you camp at sea.

Home to FC Barcelona, one of the most legendary football clubs in history, the city is a dream destination for sports enthusiasts making Camp Nou Stadium a must-visit spot.

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

The only thing more complicated than the laws of physics is the labyrinthine network of canals in Amsterdam, often called the Venice of the North, perfect for boat rides or just getting lost. Talk about a city filled with landmarks such as the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and the House of Anne Frank, a powerful historic site that draws visitors to witness tangible history.

It is a bike-friendly place, quite evident from the fact that there are more bikes than people- which can be used to explore Dam Square or the grand Dutch architecture around. Or one could simply take a boat towards the world's only floating flower market, Bloemenmarkt.

8. Vienna, Austria

One of the world’s music capitals, Vienna is bestowed the title because of its musical heritage and legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. Vienna’s regal architecture sings a song of its royal past since the city was once the heart of the powerful Habsburg Empire.

A perfect place for cafe hopping, courtesy of its compulsive coffee culture and mouth-watering Sachertorte which is a critical part of every localite’s day in the city. Despite its imperial atmosphere, Vienna is a green city with beautiful parks and vineyards.

9. Prague, Czech Republic

Called The Golden City because of the towers and statues crowned with gold, Prague sets the tone for a place where medieval charm meets a lively modern culture. A fairytale-like city with its cobblestone streets, gothic spires, and red-roofed buildings, it feels like something out of a storybook where instead of driving cars you are more likely to drive a carriage that turns into a pumpkin at midnight.

Icons like the Prague castle- a symbol of power and prestige, Charles Bridge-lined with baroque statues and street musicians, and Old Town Square- a vibrantly lit-up area making the city illuminate and adding to its mystique. Fun fact, the Czech Republic is the beer capital of the world.

10. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The first thing that pops up in many great minds after hearing about this city is Game of Thrones. Dubrovnik was the real-life setting for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. The city’s massive ancient stone walls dating back to the 13th century are a popular tourist attraction built as a 2-km stretch of fortress walls, embracing views of the sea and red- roofed buildings.

Bonus: It’s also a great excuse to skip leg day. Widely referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” for its Instagrammable location on the Dalmatian Coast and well- preserved medieval architecture. Now we all get the hype behind “backpacking through Europe”, indeed one can get a holistic travel experience with just one tiny bag hanging.

Europe has it all from the City of Love to the Golden City, from the festive city of Prague to the laid-back environment of Rome, book your international trip package with Pickyourtrail to make sure you don't end up behaving like a tourist on your trip. With world-class cuisine, iconic landmarks, and immersive cultural experiences, these destinations ensure a perfect getaway for every traveler and promise unforgettable experiences.