12 European Cities With the Most Stunning Architecture
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European cities are known for their rich architectural designs, heritage, and history that span centuries. With different architectural styles, both contemporary and ancient, coexisting side-by-side, these European cities feel like a treasure trove to architects and architecture enthusiasts. These 12 cities are the perfect opportunity to plunge into the world of architectural history, innovation, creativity, and cultural richness. Read on.
Paris, France
Parisian architecture perfectly blends Gothic, Renaissance, and modern-day styles. Recognized for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Sacre-Coeur, and the Louvre, Paris has so much to offer architecture enthusiasts. Paris also features often overlooked but mesmerizing architectural delights such as the Orsay Museum and the many little spots in the thrilling Montmartre.
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Read more: Top Things To Do in Paris
Rome, Italy
Home to the iconic Colosseum, Rome would be a wildly thrilling ride for architecture fanatics who favor grandeur that spans millennia. If you are into classical, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles, Rome is your place. From the Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain, the city has so much to offer tourists.
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Read also: Unmissable Things To Do in Rome
Florence, Italy
Widely credited as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has many elegant cathedrals, palaces, and museums to see. From the breathtaking Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Strozzi Palace, Ponte Vecchio, and The Brancacci Chapel, Florence is the perfect destination for architectural marvels.
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Read also: Most Charming European Towns
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a treasure trove for Art Nouveau, Baroque, and contemporary architecture. If these are your things, you’ll be thrilled by landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, St Rupert, and the Augustinian church, which dates back to the 14th century.
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Read also: Best European Destinations for Solo Travel
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s medieval streets, Gothic cathedrals, and Baroque palaces are thrillingly beautiful. The city’s top-tier architecture highlights include Prague Castle, St Nicholas Church, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square. For contemporary styles, the curvaceous Dancing House, co-designed by Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić, is a must-see in Prague.
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Read also: Historic Castles in Europe
London, United Kingdom
London is home to diverse architectural styles that coexist side by side. From Regency townhouses to brutalist high-rises and contemporary designs, London blends new, old, and everything in-between. Some iconic spots to savor in London include The Gherkin, The Shard, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and St Pancras Station.
The Westminster Abbey, the coronation location of over 40 monarchs since 1066, is a magnificent must-see.
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Read also: Iconic Places Around the World
Dublin, Ireland
If you’re looking to step back in time, then Dublin’s medieval architecture is something you need to experience firsthand. Dublin’s architectural heritage ranges from medieval castles and Georgian townhouses to modern structures. The city’s perfect blend of ancient and contemporary designs creates a perfect scenario for architecture enthusiasts. From Dublin Castle to Casino Marino, St Patrick Cathedral, and the Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin has so many architectural gems to explore.
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Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is an enchanting spot to experience Catalan modernist architectural style in full splendor. It is also the place to indulge in the works of one of the greatest architects of all time, Antonio Gaudi (7 of his masterpieces have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites). His works in Barcelona include the majestic La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà. Beyond Catalan modernism, Barcelona is full of Gothic and medieval architectural gems. Be sure to savor Park Guell, La Rambla, and the Cathedral of Barcelona.
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Read also: UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen offers a captivating blend of historic landmarks, modern architecture, and Nordic innovation. From the cobblestone streets, colorful townhouses, and charming squares, the city has so much to see. Explore the iconic Nyhavn waterfront, Rosenborg Castle, and Christiansborg Palace. The Royal Danish Opera House is a Contemporary work that shapes Cophehagens’ architectural grandeur.
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Read also: Hidden Gems in Europe
Budapest, Hungary
The architectural composition of Budapest is a story of Hungary’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. The historic Buda District, crowned by the Buda Castle, is a perfect opportunity to take a glimpse into the country’s royal history. Besides, the city is lined with medieval forts and Baroque Palaces that offer an eclectic blend of different architectural styles and vibrant urban energy. Some must-sees include the Hungarian Parliament Building, State Opera House, Matthias Church, and St. Stephen’s Basilica.
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Read also: Hidden Romantic Getaways
Athens, Greece
Although recognized as the cradle of Western civilization, the Greek capital is now home to both ancient architectural gems and contemporary works. The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the perfect definition of classical Greek architecture, is renowned for its timeless beauty.
When you step away from the iconic Acropolis, Athens is a place to experience layers and layers of history. If you’re a history and architectural enthusiast, the Plaka District and the neoclassical mansions that line the city. The Athens Olympic Sports Complex and Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center symbolize the city’s unending innovations of modern architectural pieces.
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Read also: Famous Greek Landmarks
Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is an outstanding symbol of neoclassical grandeur. With the 18th century facades, wide boulevards, and charming squares, Bordeaux has many delights tourists can enjoy. Some of the top architectural landmarks in this city include The Place de la Bourse and the symmetrical Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. Bordeaux is also home to tremendous contemporary works, such as the Jacques Chaban-Delmas Bridge and the iconic Cité du Vin.
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Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
