For someone who is traveling for their first time, it might be very difficult to select a single destination in Europe because there are so many options available.
We compiled a list of the top ten places for beginners visiting Europe to assist you in organizing your perfect European trip.
These are destinations that will take your breath away and leave you yearning for more, whether they are famous city spots or well-kept secrets.
1. Paris, France
Paris is an obvious choice in our ranking of Europe’s favorite tourist destinations.
People love this city of romance because of many things including the Eiffel Tower, its stunning architecture, some very interesting museums such as The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, as well as quaint cafes with delicious French food.
Be sure to take a walk along the Seine or through one of a kind areas– Montmartre, Le Marais while you are there and see for yourself why Paris is called the city of light!
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, found in the Catalonia region of Spain along the coast is a place that every first time tourist has to go.
The stunning architectural works in this city designed by the renowned Antoni Gaudi such as Sagrada Familia and Park Güell make Barcelona an interesting mix of cultural history with beaches included too!
Ensure you take some tapas and drink sangria as you sit back and relax at any of the crowded plaza’s bars.
3. Rome, Italy
The city of Rome is still fascinating because it is an ancient city that has remained unbeaten over time, with some of the ruins being the Colosseum or Roman Forum.
In this city one can take a leisurely walk and pass through beautiful roads having attractive restaurants as well as ice cream parlors then proceed to Vatican City where he or she will be able to see Michelangelo’s spectacular artwork in the Sistine Chapel.
You should also remember to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make your wish– they say it will help you come back here again!
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a beautiful city with attractive rivers, pretty bridges and exceptional regions such as Jordaan and De Pijp.
While in Amsterdam, you can either take a canal cruise or go see some amazing pieces of art at Van Gogh Museum.
Furthermore, make sure you allocate some hours within your day to tour the famous tulip fields found at the edge of the city so that you fully feel like a Dutch person.
While in Amsterdam, remember to take some bites of stroopwafels and bitterballen, which are among the most popular Dutch fast foods.
5. London, England
London is part and parcel in any inventory of great places one must see when going to Europe for the first time. It is a city which houses Buckingham Palace, Big Ben as well as London Eye; therefore, it offers a very good opportunity for one to get an insight into English culture.
After having your breakfast, you may stroll around and purchase some fish and chips available from various sellers near Hyde Park. Tourists have the option of going to see places like The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral etc., in case they want to keep busy.
The National Gallery, Tate Modern are some of the famous museums where art lovers can visit. Alternatively, they can get into some action by riding on the roller coasters found in Thorpe Park or pay a visit to Warner Bros Studio Tour to explore Harry Potter films behind the scenes.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
The City of Hundred Spires, Prague, is a fascinating tourist destination, most notably for first-time visitors. With its Gothic architecture, cobbled alleys and rich history, one can only wish for more in this fairy-tale city.
Commence your morning with a walk at the Old Town Square, which is a UNESCO site. The square is characterized by pastel-colored structures and busy street artists. It would be a great mistake if you went past the Charles Bridge; this iconic sight is decorated with sculptures of saints and provides an amazing view of the whole city.
To have a feel of the local culture, it would be best if you go to the numerous beer gardens within Prague’s stunning gardens or visit an underground bar for entertainment. Those interested in food should sample and experience Czech traditional meals like goulash as well as trdelník (which is also very sweet and tasty).
7. Athens, Greece
Those travelers who seek to encounter the past must visit Athens, which is the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization and therefore of prime importance.
Commence at the Acropolis, which houses the renowned Parthenon temple that was built in honor of the Greek goddess, Athena. After that move to Plaka; a very interesting place– the heart of Athens, an old area with narrow streets where on both sides there are cafes, restaurants or shops of traditional goods and food.
To experience the contemporary side of Athens, go to Syntagma Square where you will witness soldiers performing their famous ritual. Be sure to grab some tasty souvlaki before you leave and maybe take a tour for a day in any of the beautiful Greek islands.
8. Berlin, Germany
One cannot tour Europe without passing through this all-around city called Berlin. With its rich history and cool neighborhoods where you can find graffiti walls next to modern coffee shops, Berlin does cater for every taste.
Start by going to the Brandenburg Gate which is a symbol that Berlin is now one city again. Next, go to Museum Island, home of five very important museums with their antiques and other valuable objects collected over the last few thousand years from all around the globe.
Do not forget to experience Berlin’s nightlife too. It is inclusive of endless rooftop bars, underground clubs and German beer served at beer gardens. Don’t forget to have some currywurst or schnitzel while around!
9. Lisbon, Portugal
Even though Lisbon is not among the most frequented cities in Europe, it is a must visit place for anyone going to Europe for the first time. The combination of a lively culture with a peaceful atmosphere makes one remember such places forever.
Experience the city’s narrow streets from colorful terraces and pretty tiles of one famous yellow tram. It would be a mistake not to go see Belem Tower, which is an ancient monument enlisted under UNESCO from the 16th century.
To have a good view of the city, visit Miradouro de Santa Catarina or tour St. George’s Castle which is also amazing. As for cuisine, in Lisbon you will get fresh seafood and the famous custard tart called pastel de nata.
10. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a lovely city with a rich history and Celtic culture. The Scottish place is complete with medieval castles, as well as busy pubs that have a lot of Scotch whisky to offer; visiting it will make you feel like you’re under a spell.
When you visit Edinburgh Castle, which sits on a mountain that was once a volcano, you will have the opportunity to view the famous Scottish crown jewels as well as the Stonely– this term refers to the ancient times’ coronation room.
Ensure you take a tour down the historical Royal Mile; it’s paved with cobblestones and packed full of amazing city views, shops and cafes! In case you have a passion for art, Edinburgh has a lot to offer in the form of the National Gallery of Scotland where there are some paintings by Monet and Van Gogh.
However, if you feel like being a little more daring, why not take the opportunity to climb Arthur’s Seat– this extinct volcano provides panoramic views around Edinburgh!
Final Thoughts
To summarize, there are numerous amazing places in Europe that one can visit when they decide to travel for their first time.
The truth is that this varied continent accommodates every person as it consists of famous cities e. g. Paris or London and less known city jewels e.g. Prague and Lisbon among many others.
Therefore, grab your passport, pack your bags and prepare to discover the marvels of Europe!
