Top 10 Must-See European Vacation Destinations

Europe is such a vast and diverse place that reducing all its wonders in order to come up with a list of its top 10 vacation destinations seems to difficult. What criteria will you use exactly? How do you include one and exclude others? I might as well list them all down, but that’s quite impossible.

As a vacation destination, Europe has countless places to offer no matter what your vacation preferences are. A European vacation doesn’t mean you have to spend big bucks to fully enjoy a city or country. For this list, I decided to go the way of must-see destinations in Europe. If you haven’t been to Europe yet, it’s a great way to start in these places.

London, England - A perfect springboard for any European vacation. Its historic locations, backstreets, and castles are something that most of us have only previously read in books. Culture and great entertainment are also big draws for London. From London you can also visit other English cities such as Bristol, which is known as an art hub, or spend a day at the English or Welsh countryside.

Paris, France – Paris is one of those places that is just so quintessentially European. The architecture, the food, the people, and the way of life are just so European that you just know that you’re in this very different yet very special place. Paris is home to fashion, art, and good food in Europe so expect a beautiful good time exploring the sites and absorbing as much of the city as you can.

Amsterdam, Holland - I have a feeling that Amsterdam would most likely appeal to the younger set because of its liberal reputation, but I have to say that Amsterdam is a very beautiful place to visit no matter what age you are. The cheeses alone are worth a visit, as well as walking around the city so flat it won’t be so tiring. You can also make Amsterdam a starting point for seeing the rest of Holland where you can see tulip fields and the famous windmills.

Venice, Italy – the City of Canals is one unusual city. First of all, there are no motor vehicles and trucks. Second of all, water covers almost every part of the city and transportation mostly takes on gondolas and ferries. Visiting Venice is truly an experience, couple that with breathtaking architecture and good food and wine, and you have yourself a memorable European vacation.

Barcelona, Spain – Barcelona lies by the sea, so expect a lot of great seafood meals during your stay there, as well as some fun in the sun. Take time to drop by the street markets and don’t forget to check out the Sagrada Familia, that still unfinished church in the city. The city itself is also home to a lot of street art and unusual architecture so be sure not to miss that.

Rome, Italy – Another Italian city makes it on the list. Rome is one of Europe’s largest cities, a culturally rich one that has a lot of historical sites for visitors to enjoy. Tucked in the middle of Rome is Vatican City, technically another country, and the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. Even if you’re not the religious type, be sure to check the art and architecture around you.

Berlin, Germany – A modern yet cultured city, Berlin offers you historical palaces, museums, and a fantastic nightlife. Another great reason to visit Berlin is to see where the Berlin wall once stood, a reminder of the issues that once split the country in half.

Vienna, Austria – the Austrian capital has plenty to offer in terms of history, culture, culinary delights, and even shopping. Classical music fans will love visiting Beethoven’s various residences, as well as Mozart’s memorial. It has consistently ranked surveys with regards to the quality of life, and a visit to the city will surely allow you to have a taste of it.

Athens, Greece – even if you go to Athens to see the ruins of the ancient Acropolis alone, the trip would be all worth it. But it isn’t the only thing that Athens has to offer. Great food and friendly people are nothing short of willing in helping you explore the city see its riches.

Brussels, Belgium – Brussels used to be overshadowed by Europe’s bigger, better-known cities but it is now starting to emerge as a top European vacation destination. Rich architecture, fabulous culture, a great night life, sumptuous food, and friendly people all make Brussels a top destination.