If you are currently planning a backpacking adventure around Europe you might be totally confused as to what cities to visit.
There are hundreds of amazing cities to choose between and you are spoit for choice if you are visiting the continent for the first time.
Some cities automatically come to mind when you think of Europe whilst there are so many up and coming destinations waiting to be discovered.
View our top European city destinations you should add to your itinerary.
1. London
London is one of the oldest cities in the world and with many historical attractions.
The city centre is thriving with theatres, nightlife and lots of sightseeing opportunities. Top places to see include Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Leicester Square, Camden and Soho.
You might want to visit London during summer and enjoy the parks and outdoor lidos.
Although sightseeing can be a easy way to spend a lot of money there are lots of ways to visit London on the cheap.
- Search UK tours
- Plan a gap year in the UK.
2. Paris
Paris of the most romantic and popular cities to visit in the world - you can't leave without going up the Eiffel Tower or walking the famous Champs Elysees.
Paris is one of the most expensive places to visit in Europe, but if you have never been before you really need to tick it off your bucket list.
If you plan on travelling Europe by train there are excellent transport connections from Paris to other popular destinations in the continent.
- Search our France gap year trips.
3. Berlin
Learn about the divide between East and West and enjoy the famous nightlife in this world class city. Berlin is one of the hottest destinations in the world right now, a city where you can mix sightseeing with culture and partying!
Berlin is also one of the cheapest cities to visit in Europe compared to others in the western region.
- Visit our Germany gap year directory.
4. Amsterdam
Canals, coffee shops and the infamous red light district are all must visit destinations in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is a popular weekend city break destination. You can't go backpacking in Europe and not visit Amsterdam!
- Search tours of the Netherlands.
5. Barcelona
Whether it is history, art, football, culture, nightlife or beaches - this city has it all and it is easy to see why so many people visit every year. From watching a live football game at the Nou Camp, to partying on La Rambla - you will not be bored in Barcelona!
This isn't the cheapest city in Europe, but it is somewhere you need to see. Barcelona is one of the best places to visit in Europe during summer.
- You might like to view Spanish language courses in Barcelona.
6. Prague
Prague is a pretty city which is more relaxed than some European neighbours, be sure to try the local food and dark beer. This city also has some of the prettiest squares on the continent. You can also get great value for money here.
- Consider going to teach in the Czech Republic.
7. Rome
Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world - ask anyone who has been here and you will find not many will have a bad word to say. You can see spectacular sights like the Colloseum, Pantheon and Vatican. Most of the main tourism attractions can be seen on foot.
- Apply to volunteer in Italy.
8. Venice
Italy really is a special country to visit and no where in the world compares to Venice. View our tours in Italy to see if we can tempt you to book a visit.
How to Decide Where to Go
Interests
What do you like doing? Art and culture? Maybe a city like Vienna would appeal. Beaches? Barcelona! Busy city life? London. Iconic tourist atractionc? Paris. Affordable and up and coming? Budapest.
Budget
How much money you have can make a big difference to where you go. Europe is one of the most expensive places on the planet to travel, especially during the summer from June to August. There are lots of ways way to save money though. View these tips how to visit Europe on a budget.
What Time of Year
If you want a summer trip, then a country like Greece or Croatia, Portugal or Spain is best if you like beaches and sun. Or for winter, you could consider a festive Christmas break to somewhere like Prague or Munich.
How to Get Around
Europe has one of the best transport networks in the world with low cost airlines, trains and buses connecting all the major tourism destinations. Bus is the cheapest way to travel, but if you are short on time fly or take the train. Read these tips for interrailing to navigate the continent by rail. There are also lots of Europe bus tours taking you to all the main highlights.
Plan a City Hopping Tour of Europe
If you think we missed any off our list let us know! Or you could even share your top experiences, contact us today.
