First Time in Europe? These 12 Must-Visit Spots Are Your Ultimate Guide to the Best of the Continent
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Are you planning your first European trip but don’t know where to go? You’ve landed in the perfect place! Europe is a breathtaking continent famed for diversity, rich history, and beautiful scenery. However, deciding where to visit can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time.
Luckily, Europe has something to offer every kind of traveler, so it’s not too difficult to find a place you’ll enjoy, although you’ll want your first trip to Europe to be memorable. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of 12 of the best places for first-timers to visit in Europe. These places are easy to travel and have many things to do.
London, England
London is a fantastic place to start your journey in Europe because it has many exciting things to see and do. Famed globally for its rich history, diverse culture, and world-famous tourist attractions, England’s capital city has something to offer every kind of traveler. Better yet, it’s served by several airports, so getting there won’t be an issue.
In London, history buffs can step back in time at the Tower of London and the British Museum, and foodies can sample local and international cuisine at Box Park and Camden Market. Meanwhile, families can have fun at London Dungeons and the London Eye, and shoppers can indulge in the finer things at Harrods. What’s not to like?
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe
Rome, Italy
History lovers looking for somewhere historic to visit on their first trip to Europe should head straight to Rome. The Italian capital is jam-packed with fascinating historic landmarks and ancient ruins that will transport you back in time. While other cities across Europe also offer abundant history, the sheer volume of things to see in Rome makes it stand out.
When you’re not exploring the Colosseum or tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, you’ll find yourself admiring the ruins at the Roman Forum and taking in the spectacular architecture at the Pantheon. It’s also worth noting that historic destinations, such as Pompeii, can be easily reached on a bus tour from Rome. Not to mention, Vatican City, the world’s smallest country, is inside the city.
Read also: European Cities for History Lovers
Chania, Greece
Chania, a picturesque city on the northwest coast of Crete, a Greek island in the Mediterranean Sea, makes our list for two reasons. First, it’s by far one of the most beautiful places in Greece. Second, it perfectly sums up Europe as a continent, offering travelers pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and historic architecture.
Most of the action in Chania centers around its beautiful 14th-century Venetian harbor. You’ll find vibrant traditional houses, quaint Greek restaurants, and handicraft souvenir shops here. Notable attractions at the harbor include the 16th-century lighthouse, Küçük Hasan Pasha Mosque, and the Nautical Museum. Chania also offers easy access to several beautiful beaches, including Nea Chora Beach, Koum Kapi Beach, and Balos and Elafonissi further away.
Read also: Best Spots in Greece for First-Timers
Paris, France
With over 100 million visitors yearly, France is the world’s most visited country, and with good reason. Paris, the capital city, is France’s most popular place to visit. Like London, this iconic city has something to offer every kind of traveler, although you’ll likely spend your time discovering the most famous sights.
Significant points of interest you don’t want to miss in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe. Paris is also a great place to visit first in Europe on a backpacking trip because it offers transport links to many other European destinations, such as Zurich, Switzerland, Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Barcelona, Spain.
Read also: Pocket-Friendly European Cities To Visit
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is another excellent city for a first-time visitor to Europe. For starters, Schiphol Airport is a central European travel hub connecting the Netherlands to large parts of the world. Therefore, you should easily catch a flight to the city. Of course, Amsterdam is also a beautiful place to explore.
Best known for its vibrant nightlife, architecture, narrow houses, and vast canal system, Amsterdam has much to offer. You’ll never tire of strolling along the canal, exploring historic locations like the Anne Frank House, and traveling through the city by boat. My favorite attractions in the city include Van Gogh Museum, Vondelpark, and Rijksmuseum.
Read also: Enchanting Small Towns in Europe
Bruges, Belgium
The next European destination on our list is Bruges, a charming city in northwest Belgium known for its lovely scenery, authentic cuisine, and beautiful architecture. Between the 12th and 15th centuries, this city was a thriving trading center. Today, it’s an excellent place for a romantic getaway or a quieter European city break.
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In Bruges, get lost exploring the city’s cobblestone streets lined with grand medieval buildings. Like Amsterdam, Bruges also has a picturesque canal system you can walk along. Noteworthy attractions in the city include the 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall), Markt Square, and the 13th-century Belfry of Bruges. Oh, and make sure you sample some of Belgium’s finest chocolates, waffles, and beers during your visit.
Read also: Amazing Adventures for Couples in Europe
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Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the capital of Austria, makes our list because it has everything Europe is famous for, such as architecture, history, art, music, and food. As the capital of Austria, the city also serves as a transport hub to the rest of Europe and the world. This is excellent news for backpackers planning their first trip to Europe.
Vienna’s impressive transport infrastructure makes it easier for travelers to get around the city quickly. A quite luxurious city, you’ll spend most of your time in Vienna visiting famous attractions, sampling local cuisine, and strolling along the Danube River. Must-see attractions include Innere Stadt (Old Town), Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, Belvedere Palace, and Naschmarkt food market.
Read also: Natural Wonders in Europe Worth Visiting
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is another affordable city perfect for first-time trips to Europe. The average daily cost in the city is just $91, which is almost $160 less than in Paris. In Budapest, you’ll find remarkable architecture, gorgeous thermal baths, and delicious traditional Hungarian cuisine.
Popular things to do in Budapest include eating your body weight in funnel cakes, visiting Buda Castle, relaxing in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and exploring the Great Market Hall. Sports fans might also be pleased to hear that Budapest is home to several Hungarian football teams and the national stadium. For epic views of the city, ride the Ferris Wheel of Budapest.
Read also: Historic Castles in Europe
Dolomites, Italy
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock or don’t have Instagram on your phone, you’ll have seen plenty of the Dolomites. Also known as the Dolomite Mountains, this impressive mountain range in northeastern Italy is one of the best places in Europe for hiking. If you’re visiting Europe for the first time on a hiking trip, we can’t think of a better destination.
Despite the mountain’s jagged peaks, winding roads, and rugged terrain, the Dolomites are surprisingly easy to reach. From Trento, it’s only a two-hour drive to the mountain range. It’s only a four-hour drive from Milan. Highlights of a trip to the Dolomites include the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks, Croda da Lago, Lago di Sorapis, and Lake Misurina.
Read also: European Cities With Great Cultural Heritage
Barcelona, Spain
The penultimate destination on our list is Barcelona, the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region. Aside from the city’s wealth of different things to do and overall beauty, being one of the easiest places to visit in Europe also makes Barcelona appealing. The city has excellent transport services connecting most of the city and an airport with links to most of the world.
Barcelona is best known for its rich history, cultural heritage, beautiful neighborhoods, and iconic architecture. No matter what you enjoy, you’ll find something you like in the city. History buffs can visit La Sagrada Familia. Wannabee architects can explore Park Güell. Foodies can tuck into local cuisine in La Boqueria Market, and sports fans can watch FC Barcelona play at Camp Nou.
Read also: European Cities With Impressive Architecture
Prague, Czech Republic
There’s no denying that Europe is an expensive place to visit. Many cities have a high cost of living, making it difficult for budget travelers to visit. Luckily, though, cities like Prague also exist. Renowned for being one of Europe’s most affordable cities, this fairytale destination is perfect if you’re on a tight budget.
Straight out of a storybook, the Czech Republic capital is famed for its affordable food and drink and magnificent architecture, which includes a Disney-like castle. Enjoy walks along the Vltava River, getting lost in the Old Town, exploring Prague Castle, and eating traditional food in Republic Square. A big hit with groups of friends, you can also party the night away in the clubs near Charles Bridge.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
Annecy, France
Suppose you want to enjoy the best of Europe’s traditional architecture, delicious cuisines, and lush scenery. In that case, there’s arguably no better place to visit than Annecy, a picture-perfect town in the French Alps. Offering travelers an escape from the daily grind, this charming town in southeastern France sits on the Thiou River alongside Lake Annecy.
As such, visitors can expect outdoor adventure, beautiful natural scenery, and a more relaxed European vacation. Once you’ve explored the town’s gorgeous Old Town (Vieille), head to Château d’Annecy, a medieval castle that offers impressive views of the town. Alternatively, hike around the lake or hire a kayak and take to the water. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
Read also: Quick City Getaways in Europe
