Kelly Robertson
So you want to travel to Europe, but you’re not sure where to start? Luckily we came up with the list of 5 European cities to visit before you die. Our goal is not to go into details here (there’s Wikipedia after all), only to point out few things we like about each city from the list.
Paris, France
The capital of France is the biggest city on continental Europe with its metro area counting some 11.5 million citizens. It’s the place you’ve seen in many movies and it looks just like you imagine it – awesome. The inner circle is the place where you should stay (inside Peripherique Boulevard) from where you’ll be connected with Paris’ impressive metro system, comprised of some 14 lines plus couple of RER lines that go outside of the city. However, the idea is to walk as much as you can, visiting Notre Dame, Eifel tower, Louvre Museum, Mon Martre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs d’Elysee and many, many other places along the way.
Barcelona, Spain
The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region is super vibrant and colorful. You’ll be again and again amazed with all the street artists performing at Las Ramblas, while at the same time making sure your wallet, passport and tech gear (camera, phone) are safe. Pick pocketing is like a national sport in Barcelona, but don’t let that ruin your experience. Visit some cafe near the sea and sip that espresso during siesta. Once you’re done, walk through the Gothic quarter to see the old Barcelona and have some tapas with great (and pretty affordable) Spanish wine, only to remember the experience every time you have a similar wine back at home.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague was one of very few cities that were left undamaged during the World War II. It’s pretty much the same as it used to be with the addition of new buildings, making the capital of the Czech Republic a true beauty. At any given moment, it’s bursting with tourists who are there for the same reason you’ll want to visit Prague – it’s not expensive, yet it’s impressive. Their famous breweries are serving guests round the clock so don’t be surprised when someone calls you to meet after the midnight. Prague is vibrant and full of life!
Rome, Italy
What can we say about Rome that someone already haven’t said. It used to be the center of the world and today it’s a vibrant metropolis full of tourists from all around the world. Don’t get surprised if the thing you touch is 2,000 years old like many seemingly uninteresting artifacts spurred throughout the city. You’ll want to visit Vatican, Colosseum, and walk through the city center to take photos at beautiful squares. Speaking of squares, Italy is full of them and there are many other cities worth visiting as well, but we had to limit our list somehow. Rome is a true pleasure for everyone’s eyes and a place where you’ll want to return after some time.
London, United Kingdom
The capital of the UK is also one of the major financial centers of the world. Its old streets full of people add an extra energy and you’ll love it for that. It’s like everyone’s in the rush and with so many people, it looks like a madness. However, London is a well-organized city where you’ll be quickly moving from one side to the other using the tube (metro). You’ll want to check out the Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, museums, and the City where greedy bankers do their dirty work.
Stockholm, Sweden
Last but not the least is Stockholm, the capital of Sweden and arguably the best city in Scandinavia. The reason for this statement is simple – it’s the largest city on the peninsula and it’s beautiful. One thing you’ll instantly notice are handsome people and their relaxed attitude. Stockholm (and the whole Sweden for that matter) is very rich — although it has just 1.3 million people, the city is served by 4 airports! You must check out the King’s palace, city hall (where Nobel prize is awarded) and Gamla stan (old city) which is bursting with bars and restaurants.
And that’s our list. Which cities would you add?
