Thinking about heading to Europe for the first time, but have no idea where to go? Don’t worry! Here’s a list of the 10 best cities in Europe for first time visitors.
Europe may not be the biggest continent, but what it may lack in size, it makes up for the richness of its history, amazing food, and cultural heritage.
But deciding exactly where to go can be a challenge, especially if you’ve never visited before. While caution and a respect for the local laws and culture are necessary wherever you go, visitors may find it easier to go around these 10 cities – leaving you more relaxed and able to enjoy your vacation.
Table of Contents
1. London
The UK’s capital city has a long history. Nowadays a melting pot of cultures and home to nearly 9 million inhabitants, it still retains much of its quintessential British-ness.
What makes it great for first time visitors? English is the native language, the underground is easy to use and relatively affordable, and there is a plethora of things to do and see. As 18th century man of letters Samuel Johnson put it, “…when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” And trust me, there’s even more activity in London now than there was in Johnson’s time.
Top 3 sights
- Big Ben
- Tower of London
- Buckingham Palace
Where to stay
I was always told to “stay north of the river [Thames]” and I’ve never strayed from that advice. Personally, I’ve favored the Kensington, Chelsea, or Marylebone neighborhoods.
2. Paris
Famous as the ultimate city of romance, everyone should visit the French capital at least once in their life. With its uniform buildings and world-class attractions, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more elegant city anywhere.
What makes it great for first time visitors? A clean, easy-to-use metro system, robust tourist infrastructure, and really, really good food. Parisians themselves may be considered a little standoffish and snobbishly protective of their language, but many speak good English, especially within the tourist areas.
Top 3 sights
- Eiffel Tower
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- The Louvre
- Bonus (technically just outside of Paris): Palace of Versailles
Where to stay
Paris has several neighborhoods that are perfect for first-time visitors. I personally tend to stay in the 1st Arrondissement or the Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement).
Looking for ideas for a trip to Paris? Check out my What to do in Paris: 1-4 Day Itinerary.
3. Rome
I say this with all the love of someone with a personal connection to the city: Rome is crazy. But it’s survived its tumultuous history and today welcomes millions of visitors a year. It’s not called the Eternal City for nothing.
What makes it great for first time visitors? Good weather, great food, and millennia of history. Yes, Rome can be a little chaotic (careful when crossing the street!), but that’s all part of the charm.
Top 3 sights
- The Colosseum
- Vatican City (I know, technically this is a different country)
- The Roman Forum
Where to stay
I favor the Historic Centre or near the Spanish Steps.
4. Vienna
Austria’s capital city is as elegant as they come. Famous for its classical music scene and its Hapsburg past, Vienna is also a top spot for the annual Christmas markets.
What makes it great for first time visitors? It’s elegant, the old town is relatively compact and easy to get around (with most major sites being walkable), and English is widely spoken. You’ll soon realize, Vienna waits for you.
Top 3 sights
- The Hofburg
- Schönbrunn Palace
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Where to stay
The Innere Stadt (the “Inner City”) is where you’ll likely want to stay, although I’ve found staying just outside the ring road that encircles the Innere Stadt is more affordable and just as easy to access all the major sights.
5. Amsterdam
With its endless canals, it’s easy to see why the Dutch capital is hailed as the “Venice of the North.” While it’s well-known for its red-light district and party scene, there’s a lot in Amsterdam for culture geeks and history buffs as well.
What makes it great for first time visitors? English is widely spoken, the old town is compact and easy to get around, and there’s something for everyone. If you’re up for it, why not getting around using the Dutch people’s favorite mode of transportation: the bicycle.
Top 3 sights
- Rijksmuseum
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
Where to stay
The Oude Centrum, or Old Center, is best for those who want to be close to all the major sights. The Canal Belt offers a unique and picturesque view of the city.
6. Barcelona
If the Latin charm of the Iberian Peninsula is more your speed, look no further than Barcelona. Located in the north-west of Spain, it’s a perfect blend of Spanish and local Catalan culture.
What makes it great for first time visitors? Amazing architecture, great food, and right on the Mediterranean. What’s not to love?
Top 3 sights
- Basilica de la Sagrada Familia
- Las Ramblas
- Casa Batlló
Where to stay
Like many European cities, the Gothic Quarter, the oldest part of town, is where you want to stay to be in the center of it all.
7. Edinburgh
Scotland’s capital city is full of charm, but don’t just take my word for it. The Old and New Towns are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What makes it great for first time visitors? English-speaking (of the awesome Scottish variety), the historic center is compact and easy to get around, and it’s a great launching pad for day trips to other areas of Scotland.
Top 3 sights
- Edinburgh Castle
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- The Royal Mile
Where to stay
The Old Town for historic sites, the New Town for shopping. I like to stay somewhere between Old Town and Leith, making my stay a little more affordable.
Looking for ideas for a trip to Edinburgh? Check out my What to do in Edinburgh: 1-4 Day Itinerary.
8. Dublin
If you’re heading to Ireland, chances are you’ll end up in Dublin first. With its good beer, charm, and long, proud history, trust me, you’ll want to stay awhile.
What makes it great for first time visitors? English-speaking, the historic center is compact/walkable and easy to navigate, and Irish charm is everywhere. Oh, and the locals are very friendly – especially after everyone’s had a few drinks.
Top 3 sights
- The Book of Kells and Trinity College Dublin
- Dublin Castle
- National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
Where to stay
As usual, the city center is best for exploring.
Looking for ideas for a trip to Dublin? Check out my What to do in Dublin: 1-4 Day Itinerary.
9. Munich
While many people may think the German capital of Berlin is the place to go in Germany, Munich offers everything that’s quintessentially German: fantastic beer, lederhosen, and beer gardens galore.
What makes it great for first time visitors? You can walk around the city center to several major sites, the metro system makes other parts of the city easily accessible, and English is widely spoken. Oh, and did I mention the beer?
Top 3 sights
- Marienplatz
- The Residenz
- Nymphenburg Palace
Where to stay
The Altstadt, or OId Town, is the only area I stay in whenever I visit. Staying near the Olympiapark would also be a good cheaper option.
10. Copenhagen
Copenhagen is the capital city of Denmark. With its colorful buildings and fascinating history, it’s a great introduction to Scandinavia.
What makes it great for first time visitors? It’s safe, small (easy to explore!), and English is widely spoken. And if you visit in summer, you can enjoy many, many hours of sunlight.
Top 3 sights
- Rosenborg Castle
- Nyhavn
- Little Mermaid statue
Where to stay
There I go again, recommending the old town, or Indre By. But its centrality really does make it the best place to stay for first-timers.
Inspired to visit Europe? Let me know in the comments!
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