From the countryside of France and Italy to the islands of Greece and Spain, European nations are teeming with culturally diverse cities and picturesque scenery. Top cities to visit in Europe in 2025 It should come as no surprise that choosing which places to visit in Europe may be challenging given the plethora of must-see attractions and the natural beauty of the continent.
For this reason, U.S. News compiled a list of the top European tourist destinations by taking into account user reviews, expert opinions, and the destination's features. Start organizing your trip to Europe by using this list, and then vote below to influence it for the next year.
Top Cities to Visit in Europe in 2025
1. Oslo, Norway
Oslo provides a lively cultural experience within its beautiful surroundings, whether you're there to view Edvard Munch's well-known artwork The Scream or to stroll around the magnificent Vigeland Sculpture Park, which is home to more than 200 striking sculptures. No matter where you stay, there will be a green area within ten minutes' walk.
In addition to having one of the highest rates of electric vehicle ownership in the world and striving for carbon neutrality by 2030, Oslo has an effective and environmentally friendly public transportation system that includes buses, trams, metro lines, and ferries that run on energy, the majority of which originates from renewable sources. With a vast system of bike lanes, the city also encourages riding.
Read also: Luxury Travel Experiences in Europe
2. Bern, Switzerland (Top Cities To Visit In Europe In 2025)
This charming Swiss city is well-known for its dedication to green living and eco-friendly activities. We recommend that tourists embark on an e-bike trip near Bern to explore the beautiful scenery of the Emmental Valley.
The Botanical Garden and the protected Elfenau Park, a verdant haven ideal for rejuvenating your soul in the middle of nature, are other must-sees. With an amazing array of plant-based eating alternatives to suit every taste, Bern is also a vegan haven.
3. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is hailed as Europe's greenest city with the best standard of living. Surprisingly, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has named it the most livable city in the world for three years running.
Among the city's almost 1,000 parks and more than half a million trees are Schönbrunn Palace and Stadtpark, which is home to the famous monument of Johann Strauss, the composer of classical music.
Vienna is a peaceful and green sanctuary that is enjoyable to live in and visit, as evidenced by the fact that 73% of its citizens use public transportation and 44% choose to stroll.
4. Stockholm, Sweden
Sixty years ago, Stockholm's waterways were too contaminated to swim in, but now, environmental concerns dominate the city. Stockholm is a living example of the strength of change and dedication to sustainability today.
The city's officials reaffirm their commitment to becoming a destination free of pollutants and fossil fuels by signing a pact to become climate neutral each year.
By tackling noise pollution, Stockholm takes things a step further and hopes to become one of Europe's quietest cities.
5. Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw's 80 parks and botanical gardens contribute to its inclusion on this list. Warsaw has a wealth of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts, whether they prefer cycling, running, or just relaxing with a favorite book in a lush green area.
The Saxon Garden in the center of the city is a must-see for music enthusiasts. This peaceful haven, which was once a favorite of young musician Fryderyk Chopin, welcomes you to stop and unwind.
The University of Warsaw's Botanical Garden is a tranquil haven for plant lovers, with breathtaking varieties that will thrill them. A sail along Poland's greatest river, the Vistula, provides birdwatchers with a rare chance to see the variety of plants and animals that flourish in this dynamic environment.
6. Riga, Latvia
Extremely green Riga boasts more trees than many European capitals, with an amazing 47% of the city covered by green spaces. In order to provide a better environment for both locals and tourists, this energetic capital of Latvia is dedicated to improving its green infrastructure, lowering air pollution, and expanding its tree canopy.
Riga intends to plant 1,000 new trees by 2025. Navigating the city while adopting a slow mobility lifestyle is made simple by the extensive public transportation system.
Read also: Best Winter Holidays in Europe
7. Maribor, Slovenia (Top Cities To Visit In Europe In 2025)
Showcasing a local cuisine that prioritizes seasonal ingredients and the oldest wine vine in Europe (more than 400 years old), this little city is a brilliant example of sustainable urban life, combining slow tourism with an abundance of open areas right in its core.
The Pohorje Rainforest, the Lovrenc Lakes, and the charming Mali Sumik Waterfalls are among the natural features that surround Maribor. The city center has a large city park and tranquil botanical gardens, and many restaurants are dedicated to using only locally produced food.
8. Barcelona
Barcelona is proud to be the multicultural capital of Catalonia, Spain. Barcelona, a city renowned for its art and architecture, is home to several museums and art galleries.
Its architecture, which is evident in notable buildings like the Sagrada Família cathedral, is another reason for its popularity. People come here for the beaches, aquarium, and vibrant nightlife.
9. Madrid
Madrid, which is teeming with culture, color, and music, is the place to go if you want to see the well-known Spanish dance, known as flamenco.
This city is well-known for its grand boulevards, well-kept parks like the Buen Retiro, and the historic Hapsburg Madrid neighborhood, which is a popular hangout for both locals and tourists.
10. The city of Paris
There is no need to introduce or describe this city. This romantic city—one of the most beautiful in the world and Europe—is every couple's dream vacation spot.
As the capital of France, it is the country's main hub for fashion, art, cuisine, and culture. This city will enchant you, whether you want to take a Seine River boat or see the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower!
11. Annecy (Top Cities To Visit In Europe In 2025)
Lake Annecy meets the Thiou River in this charming Alpine village, making for an unmissable scene. This town is well-known for its ancient town square, or Vieille Ville, which is surrounded by charming pastel-colored homes, cobblestone lanes, and meandering canals. You should also visit the historic Château d'Annecy, which has a view of the city, while you're here.
12. Bordeaux
The well-known wine-growing area of France is called Bordeaux. This port city is well-known for its Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, quaint public gardens, historic houses, and notable art institutions like the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux, in addition to its vast vineyards.
13. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
This city, which is the jewel in Bosnia and Herzegovina's crown, is incredibly picturesque due to its location on the Neretva River.
It is well-known for its famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque, which provides stunning panoramic views of the city, the Old Bridge Museum, and distinctively lined streets brimming with stores and market booths.
14. Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi is the ideal destination if your dream European holiday involves skiing on ice slopes or sleighing down a snowy valley on a reindeer.
The icing on the cake will be the fact that it's quite scenic and will make for stunning Instagram feed backgrounds! Santa Claus' official residence and a fantastic location to see the Northern Lights is this Lapland capital.
Read also: A Comprehensive Guide to European Tech Companies
15. London, England
One of the most stunning and bustling cities in the world, London is home to famous landmarks including Big Ben, the London Eye, the Thames River, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.
The King's Cross train station was one of the key places in this city where scenes from the popular Harry Potter series were filmed. While here, you may also tour the fascinating Warner Bros. studio.
conclusion on Top Cities To Visit In Europe In 2025
In 2025, Europe will be a popular tourism destination because of its captivating blend of classic charm and contemporary appeal. Every city has a distinct tale to tell, from the ancient alleys of Paris and Rome to the thriving centers of innovation in Berlin and Copenhagen. Top Cities to Visit in Europe In 2025, Europe's best cities provide life-changing experiences, whether you're drawn to their stunning architecture, rich cultural offerings, or varied gastronomic pleasures. Embrace the diversity, become fully immersed in the local customs, and allow these cities to arouse your wanderlust while you make travel plans. In 2025, Europe will be magical—pack your bags and prepare to travel!
FAQs: Top Cities to Visit in Europe in 2025
Which is the most beautiful country in Europe?
It is hard to choose just one of Europe's many beautiful nations. Switzerland, Austria, Scotland, Iceland, Greece, Croatia, France, and Norway are a few of the most beautiful places you may go to here.
Which country is the richest in Europe?
With the greatest per capita income in Europe, Luxembourg is the richest nation.
What are the five most-visited countries in Europe?
The United Kingdom. The residence of the renowned British Royal Family, which is made up of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, welcomes 29,306,000 visitors annually.
- France.
- Spain.
- Italy.
- Germany.
- Austria.
- Ukraine.
- Greece.
What will I need to travel to Europe for in 2025?
What should I know about traveling to Europe in 2025 as a citizen of the United States? U.S. nationals traveling to 30 European nations will have to apply online for travel permission via the European Travel Information and Approval System (ETIAS) beginning in the middle of 2025.
Which is Europe's No. 1 beautiful country?
Sweden. You don't have to go far from Stockholm to see Sweden's most beautiful sights.