The places to visit in Europe include historic cities, cultural landmarks, and scenic attractions across the continent. Countries like France, Italy, and Spain feature UNESCO-listed heritage sites and iconic structures. Germany, Austria, and Switzerland provide well-preserved medieval towns and alpine surroundings. Eastern European nations showcase rich traditions, historic castles, and artistic influences. Popular destinations include Paris, Rome, and London, known for museums and historical sites. The continent also offers coastal regions, mountain ranges, and river cruises. Travelers can explore diverse attractions across different climates and cultural settings.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Europe
Europe offers a mix of historical landmarks, cultural treasures, and scenic environments. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Europe for an unforgettable experience.
1. Roman Forum
Photo: Fabio Fistarol / Unsplash
The Roman Forum stands as one of the most significant tourist attractions in Europe. It preserves the legacy of ancient Rome, showcasing remnants of its political and social hub. Once the center of governance and commerce, the site contains structures such as the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus, reflecting the empire’s architectural advancements. The Curia Julia, where the Senate convened, still stands as a reminder of Rome’s governance. Walking through these ruins provides insight into the daily lives of Roman citizens, from public debates to ceremonial gatherings that shaped history.
Major Attractions: Temple of Saturn, Arch of Titus, House of the Vestals
Timings: 8:30 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: €16
Location: Rome, Italy
2. Old Town
Photo: Linda Gerbec / Unsplash
Old Town Dubrovnik retains its medieval charm with limestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and fortified walls that once defended the city. The Stradun serves as its lively center, lined with historic structures and traditional shops. The Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace reflect the city’s artistic and cultural influences. Visitors can explore hidden alleyways leading to quiet courtyards and historic monasteries. Climbing the city walls offers a chance to appreciate the region’s rich history while enjoying views of the Adriatic coastline.
Major Attractions: City Walls, Rector’s Palace, Stradun
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free (City Walls require a ticket)
Location: Dubrovnik, Croatia
3. Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is one of the most iconic tourist places in Europe, known for its Gothic architecture and royal significance. It has witnessed centuries of royal traditions, making it a landmark of historical and architectural significance. The abbey serves as the final resting place for monarchs, poets, and scientists, including Geoffrey Chaucer and Isaac Newton. The Coronation Chair, used in British coronations, remains a key attraction. Stained glass windows depict biblical scenes, adding to the abbey’s grandeur. Visitors can take guided tours for deeper historical context.
Major Attractions: Poets’ Corner, Coronation Chair, Royal Tombs
Timings: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Entry Fee: £27
Location: London, England
4. Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower continues to be a highlight of Paris, drawing visitors to its observation decks for an unmatched perspective of the city. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, its iron lattice structure remains an engineering marvel. The first level offers an interactive museum detailing its construction, while the second level houses restaurants with French cuisine. The topmost deck provides sweeping views, especially stunning at sunset. At night, the tower lights up in a dazzling display, making it a focal point of Parisian evenings.
Major Attractions: Viewing Decks, Gustave Eiffel’s Office, Light Show
Timings: 9:30 AM – 11:45 PM
Entry Fee: €16 – 26
Location: Paris, France
5. Parthenon
Photo: Constantinos Kollias / Unsplash
The Parthenon is an essential part of places to visit in Europe, symbolizing ancient Greek culture and history. Constructed with massive marble columns, it exhibits the symmetry and precision of classical design. The sculptures and friezes once depicted scenes from Greek mythology, adding artistic significance. Over the centuries, the Parthenon has withstood natural disasters and conflicts, yet it remains a cultural landmark. Nearby, the Acropolis Museum provides context to its history by displaying artifacts recovered from the site, enriching the experience for visitors.
Major Attractions: Acropolis, Erechtheion, Acropolis Museum
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: €20
Location: Athens, Greece
6. Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle embodies fairy-tale elegance with its elaborate turrets, detailed frescoes, and lavish interiors. Commissioned by King Ludwig II, it reflects romantic and medieval influences, with each room inspired by operatic themes. The Singer’s Hall, with its rich woodwork and chandeliers, captures the grandeur of royal life. Perched on a hill, the castle offers impressive views of lakes and rolling hills. A walk across the Marienbrücke Bridge provides a striking angle of the castle’s exterior, making it a favorite for visitors.
Major Attractions: Throne Room, Singer’s Hall, Marienbrücke Bridge
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: €15
Location: Fussen, Germany
7. St Basil’s Cathedral
St Basil’s Cathedral remains one of Russia’s most recognizable structures, known for its colorful onion domes and intricate patterns. Built in the 16th century under Ivan the Terrible, the cathedral comprises multiple chapels, each with distinct artwork and religious icons. Its interior features vaulted ceilings, ornamental frescoes, and historic artifacts. As a museum, it offers insights into Russia’s medieval history. Located in Red Square, it stands as a symbol of Russian heritage, drawing visitors with its striking architectural details.
Major Attractions: Chapel of St. Basil, Iconostasis, Historical Exhibits
Timings: 11 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: 700 RUB
Location: Moscow, Russia
8. Grand Canal
Photo: Beatrice Redi / Unsplash
The Grand Canal is one of the top destinations on the Europe tourist places list. It serves as Venice’s central waterway, lined with historic buildings that display the city’s architectural legacy. Visitors can take a vaporetto or gondola ride to experience the canal’s charm, passing under bridges like the Rialto. Palaces along the route reveal influences from different periods, from Byzantine to Renaissance. The canal remains active throughout the day, with water taxis and boats transporting locals and tourists. During festivals like the Regata Storica, the waterway becomes the stage for traditional rowing events.
Major Attractions: Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace, Gondola Rides
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free (Gondola rides cost extra)
Location: Venice, Italy
9. Northern Lights
The Northern Lights create a spectacular visual display in Iceland’s night sky, drawing visitors from around the world. Caused by charged particles colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, these lights appear in shades of green, purple, and blue. Locations such as Thingvellir National Park offer clear viewing points away from city lights. Many opt for guided tours that provide insights into the science behind this natural occurrence. Winter months offer the best chance of witnessing this phenomenon, particularly on cloud-free nights.
Major Attractions: Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park, Kirkjufell
Timings: Best viewed between 10 PM and 2 AM
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Iceland
10. Buckingham Palace
Photo: Ferdinand Stöhr / Unsplash
Buckingham Palace serves as the official residence of the British monarch and is a popular choice for places for trips in Europe. The palace opens its doors in summer, allowing visitors to explore the opulent State Rooms, adorned with crystal chandeliers and fine artwork. The Changing of the Guard ceremony attracts large crowds, showcasing British traditions. The Queen’s Gallery features exhibitions from the Royal Collection, displaying historic paintings and rare artifacts. A visit offers a look into the traditions and grandeur of the monarchy, making it a key landmark in London.
Major Attractions: State Rooms, Queen’s Gallery, Changing of the Guard
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM (summer openings)
Entry Fee: £30
Location: London, England
Places to visit in Europe present a mix of historical sites, cultural hubs, and natural attractions. Whether delving into medieval history or discovering modern artistic influences, travelers can find something remarkable in every city. With efficient transport networks and well-preserved sites, exploring Europe becomes effortless. Plan your journey with TripXL for a smooth itinerary and memorable adventures across diverse destinations.
Cover Photo: Anthony DELANOIX / Unsplash