Short answer: Prague, Porto, Florence, Bruges, Vienna and Edinburgh are among the most beautiful cities in Europe. All six have a historic centre on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Which city is most beautiful is of course personal. For this list we chose cities with an exceptional historic centre that is easy to explore on foot.
1. Prague (Czech Republic)
Medieval lanes, Charles Bridge and the castle above the city. The historic centre is a World Heritage site. Visit Charles Bridge early in the morning, before the crowds arrive.
2. Porto (Portugal)
Colourful houses on the hillside, the Douro river and the port wine lodges across the water. The historic centre is a World Heritage site.
3. Florence (Italy)
The cradle of the Renaissance, with the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi. The historic centre is a World Heritage site. Book museums well in advance.
4. Bruges (Belgium)
Canals, cobblestones and medieval facades. The historic centre is on the World Heritage List.
5. Vienna (Austria)
Imperial palaces, coffee houses and classical music. The historic centre is a World Heritage site.
6. Edinburgh (Scotland)
A castle on a volcanic rock, the medieval Old Town and the elegant New Town, together a World Heritage site.
7. Budapest (Hungary)
Two cities on either side of the Danube, with the Parliament, thermal baths and the Castle District. The Danube banks and Castle District are a World Heritage site.
8. Dubrovnik (Croatia)
A walled old town on the Adriatic. The old city is a World Heritage site. Walk the city walls for the best views.
9. Seville (Spain)
Flamenco, orange trees and the Real Alcázar. The cathedral, the Alcázar and the Archivo de Indias are together on the World Heritage List.
10. Lisbon (Portugal)
Hills, yellow trams and viewpoints over the Tagus. In Belém you will find the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém, a World Heritage site.
Tips for a city break
- Travel outside high season: spring and autumn are quieter and often cheaper.
- Book popular attractions online with a fixed time slot.
- Check whether the city offers a city pass for public transport and museums.
Final edit: Jan Willem Beumer, editor-in-chief of Mindbogglingmedia
