Top 10 European Cities to Visit

There is so much to see and do in Barcelona that even a short visit feels richly rewarding. Bursting with character, the city blends Mediterranean energy with striking architecture, relaxed beaches and an excellent food scene.

Barcelona is famous for its Gaudí architecture, and many of his most elaborate creations can be discovered simply by strolling around the city. Colourful façades, lively squares and architectural surprises appear around every corner. One of Gaudi's creations not to be missed is the Park Güell, where playful mosaics, sweeping views and imaginative design make it a highlight for first-time visitors. Many travellers also choose to plan ahead for a visit to the Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s most iconic and still-unfinished masterpiece.

If you want to get the most out of 24 hours in Barcelona, joining an organised tour can be a practical way to see the main sights efficiently. Alternatively, the city is easy to explore independently, with hop-on hop-off buses, bike hire and walkable neighbourhoods making it simple to get around at your own pace.

Helsinki is said to be one of the fastest-growing cities in Europe. It is a relatively small and intimate city, but it is also lively and bustling at times, offering a good balance for a short holiday. You may recall Helsinki being the host of the 1952 Olympic Games, but since then it has grown in popularity and continues to attract holidaymakers from across the continent.

From its coastal position, it’s no surprise that many of Helsinki's attractions are related to the sea. This includes a naval fortress and an open-air museum, both easily accessible from the city centre. A short ferry ride also connects the city to Suomenlinna, a historic island fortress that works well as a half-day visit. 

As well as its cultural prowess, Helsinki is renowned for having some of the best restaurants in the world, and remains a haven for gourmet food lovers looking to explore modern Nordic cuisine.

Florence is the capital city of Tuscany, a beautiful area of Italy that is just waiting to be explored. The city is a popular destination for British travellers and is renowned for its arts, architecture and cultural heritage. 

Many of Florence’s highlights are concentrated within its historic centre, making sightseeing easy without extensive travel. Piazza della Signoria is Florence's most famous square, situated right at the heart of the city, and it's a great place to spend a little time people-watching.

The cathedral in Florence is an iconic structure, with an impressive dome and awe-inspiring interior. Splendid stained glass windows, unique frescoes and a multicoloured marble exterior are just a few of its many qualities. Art lovers may also choose to include a visit to the famous Uffizi Gallery. A couple of scoops of gelato ice cream is a must, and with gelato shops all over Florence, you won't have to walk far before you find one.

Prague is a popular destination with British holidaymakers, and if you only have 24 hours to spend there, you will certainly want to know how to make the most of this beautiful city. One of the best ways to experience Prague is to simply stroll along its cobblestoned streets, so you might want to leave the heels behind and slip on some comfortable shoes instead. 

Prague Castle is the largest castle in the world; rather than a single building, it is a collection of historic structures spread across a vast area. Another focus point in Prague is the Charles Bridge, which offers one of the best views of the city. The Gothic bridge acts as the gateway to the old town, an area full of small streets and hidden gems. Nearby, the city’s historic Jewish Quarter adds another layer of cultural and historical interest to an easy walking route.

The old town square is the perfect place to relax. Surrounded by spectacular architecture, it’s an ideal spot to sit in a coffee shop and admire the Gothic buildings.

No matter how much time you have to spend in Paris, a trip up the Eiffel Tower is a must. The tower is open daily from morning til evening, so you'll have plenty of time to fit it into your itinerary, whether you want to climb the tower for panoramic views or enjoy a romantic visit at night. 

Another must-see attraction is the Notre Dame Cathedral, which reopened in December 2024 following restoration after the fire in 2019. Its exterior architecture is impressive, while inside, light shines through the South Rose Window to create a magnificent stained-glass display. Depending on interests, many visitors also choose to explore the Louvre Museum or wander the streets of Montmartre for views across the city.

If you're in the mood for walking, take a stroll down the Champs-Élysées, the widest street in Paris, and drop into some of the many shops and cafés along the way. If you are unsure about how to get around the city it might be worth going on an open tour bus or using the Metro, which is quick and convenient.

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most effortless weekend city breaks, thanks to its compact layout and excellent transport connections. Visitors can easily explore the city’s walkable canals, world-class museums, and relaxed café culture without feeling rushed. Over 2–3 days, it’s possible to combine art-filled mornings at the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum with leisurely neighbourhood wandering and sampling Dutch cuisine.

With its practical layout and welcoming atmosphere, Amsterdam is ideal for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a comfortable, manageable short break.

No matter how short your visit, Rome offers an immersive mix of history and everyday life. Many of its iconic sights are clustered close together, making a weekend break very manageable with a little planning.

Must-see landmarks include the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, while wandering neighbourhoods like Trastevere gives a taste of local life. Don’t miss sampling the city’s legendary food culture at piazzas and trattorias. Focusing on a few areas allows you to enjoy Rome’s atmosphere without feeling rushed, whether strolling cobbled streets or pausing at a sunlit café.

Budapest is a great-value European city break, perfect for a weekend itinerary. Its compact historic centre makes exploring easy, while landmarks like Buda Castle, the iconic thermal baths, and scenic riverside setting add to the city’s charm.

Ideal for travellers who enjoy architecture, café culture, and a slower pace of sightseeing, Budapest allows you to soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed. With its combination of affordability, scenic views, and relaxing experiences, it’s a city where ease and enjoyment take priority over trying to tick off every attraction.

Lisbon is a laid-back weekend destination full of visual charm, from its colourful historic neighbourhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River. The city’s vibrant food scene, including fresh pastries and seafood, adds to its appeal. 

While Lisbon is famously hilly, trams, clustered neighbourhoods, and easily accessible viewpoints make exploring manageable. Spring and autumn offer particularly comfortable weather for short stays, making it the perfect time to wander cobbled streets, enjoy riverside cafés, and take in the city’s atmosphere at a relaxed pace

Copenhagen is a stylish, easy-to-navigate city, perfect for a long weekend. Its renowned cycling culture makes getting around simple, while waterfront areas like Nyhavn and modern Nordic design add to the city’s charm. 

Ideal for travellers who value quality experiences over packed itineraries, Copenhagen invites leisurely exploration of its cafés, galleries, and scenic streets. Calm and compact, the city is perfectly suited to a 2–3 day stay, allowing you to soak up its relaxed atmosphere, sample Danish cuisine, and enjoy the best of its design and culture without feeling rushed.