The Ultimate Guide to Europe's Must-Visit Destinations

Paris is on many bucket lists, and for good reason. Filled with history, romance, amazing attractions, and delicious food, there is much to love about “The City of Light.” One of the world's most famous and iconic structures, the Eiffel Tower, is a must-see while in the city. Book your tickets in advance for the best pricing and guaranteed entry for heading to the top of the tower or just to the second floor if heights aren’t your thing. Sip champagne from the top as you gaze down at the city below. Enjoy a stroll across the Champ de Mars, the gorgeous park between the tower and École Militaire, built by Louis XV in the 18th century. From one of the most famous towers in the world, you can head to one of the most famous museums, the Louvre. Depicted in countless movies, the Louvre houses perhaps the most famous painting in the world, the Mona Lisa. Other highlights include the Venus de Milo sculpture, the Raft of the Medusa, and Liberty Leading the People paintings. Visit the newly renovated and recently re-opened Notre-Dame Cathedral. While it is free to enter, and reservations are not required, they are recommended to avoid waiting in long lines. Other highlights include Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, Versailles, Arc de Triomphe, the Musée d’Orsay, shopping on Boulevard Saint Germain or browsing in the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookshop.

Where to Stay: Hotel Montalembert
This five-star hotel is located in the Saint Germain district and is within walking distance of many top attractions. There are fifty rooms and suites featuring silk fabrics by Pierre Frey and Hermès details, giving you a real Parisian flare. Some suites also offer balconies with views over the rooftops of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. There is an on-site restaurant, la ibrary with a fireplace, and an on-site spa.

Best time to visit: Spring when flowers are in bloom, Fall for Fashion Week

Another extremely popular spot for tourists, and somewhere you should see at least once in your lifetime, is Rome. The history steeping from this capital city is endless, and I don’t think I have to remind you that the food (and wine) are exceptional. To get an idea of the grandeur of the Roman Empire, you’d be remiss to skip the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Get a peek at where the Gladiators fought at the Colosseum, and the center of the public lives of the Romans was at the Forum, Group your visit to these ancient wonders with one ticket for a guided tour of both. When in Rome, you also can check out Vatican City the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basillica to see Michelangelo’s artistic masterpieces. Want something a little more modern than ancient Rome and the 16th century? The Trevi Fountain was built in the 18th century and is the largest fountain in Rome. Get a taste of an Italian market at Campo de' Fiori market, take a tour of the catacombs underneath the city, or see some contemporary art at MAXXI – National Museum of 21st Century Arts - no matter what you do, you will be awe-inspired!

Where to Stay: Hotel Locarno
This Art Deco near Villa Borghese was built in 1925 and is bursting with historic charm and timeless elegance is steps away from the famous Piazza del Popolo. It features a rooftop terrace and an on-site restaurant. Choose from standard rooms to large suites.

Best time to visit: Spring for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, Fall for harvest festivals.

Barcelona has become an increasingly popular spot, with the perfect blend of history, culture, beaches, and nightlife. Visit the Sagrada Família Basilica, still under construction since it started in 1882, making it the longest-running construction project in the world. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, it is expected to be completed around 2030–2032. Despite its incompletion, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is absolutely magnificent. Head from one Gaudí UNESCO site to another with a stop at Park Güell, a whimsical, colorful park that makes you feel like you are stepping right into a fairy tale with its grand staircase, quirky benches, and other delightful features. Head to the Gothic Quarter for shopping and eating or Las Ramblas and La Boqueria Market, a large public market.

Where to Stay: Room Mate Anna
This boutique hotel is in Barcelona's Eixample district, steps away from Passeig de Gràcia. Rooms range from basic to more luxurious junior suites to suit whatever type of stay you need. Guests can enjoy a seasonal rooftop plunge pool and solarium, offering panoramic city views. A complete buffet breakfast is available daily, and it is within close proximity to many attractions.

Best time to visit: Spring for cooler temperatures, Fall for fewer crowds and La Mercè festival.

Amsterdam has something for everyone, whether you’re into museums, nightlife, or simply strolling along picturesque canals. Take a dinner cruise down the UNESCO-listed canals and soak in the quintessential 17th-century houses, cafes, and historic bridges you see along the way. The city is bursting with museums, like Rijksmuseum, where you can see Dutch art. You won’t want to miss the Anne Frank House, which gives a glimpse into the darker sides of history. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Vondelpark, the city’s largest park filled with gardens, ponds, sculptures, an open-air theater, and more. Thrill seekers will want to try A’Dam Lookout, which offers panoramic views of the city and features ‘Over The Edge, the highest swing in Europe, which dangles riders 100 meters above the ground, over the tower's edge with the city below.

Where to Stay: Hotel Estheréa
This family-run boutique on the Singel canal cis entrally located for most major attractions in Amsterdam. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, library, and complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. There are standard rooms, family rooms, canal-facing rooms, and suites.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring for tulip season, fall for cool temperatures and vibrant colors.

With its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and affordability, this capital city makes it a perfect choice for your European vacation. History buffs will love exploring every corner of this city, from the iconic 14th-century Charles Bridge to the majestic 9th-century Prague Castle. Old Town Square is surrounded by historic landmarks from several periods, like the 15th-century Astronomical Clock (Orloj), the gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Baroque St. Nicholas Church, and the medieval Old Town Hall. The Jewish Quarter, dates back to the 10th century when Jewish communities first started settling in Prague. What makes this unusual to many other Jewish districts in Europe is that its synagogues survived Nazi occupation, so they are some of the oldest in Europe.

Where to Stay: MOODs Charles Bridge
MOODs offers guests comfortable accommodations in a centrally located spot, making it the perfect place to call home during your stay in Prague. It is within walking distance of several landmarks, includes breakfast, and offers airport transportation. Choose from superior or deluxe rooms, or if you need more space, choose their Maisonettes, a two-floor room designed for up to three guests, providing a separate living area for added comfort.

Best time to visit: Spring for Easter Markets, Fall/Winter for Christmas Markets

Perhaps Greece’s most famous island, Santorini, offers breathtaking views, gorgeous beaches, jaw-dropping sunsets, and historical archeological sites. Santorini is known for its sunsets, especially in Oia, considered to have the best sunsets in the world. The capital of Santorini, Fira has cliff-top restaurants, and charming streets to meander down, all within the cliffs. Like the rest of Greece, Santorini has ancient ruins to explore. Visit prehistoric Akrotiri, which dates back to the neolithic period, and has a museum where you can learn about the history of the area. Relax on the volcanic black sand beaches of Perissa, accessible by car or bus.

Where to Stay: Grace Santorini
Grace Hotel Santorini offers guests luxurious accommodations with breathtaking caldera views. Guests can relax in their award-winning infinity pool, and eat at the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant, led by chef Lefteris Lazarou, serving exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. Nearby attractions such as Skaros Rock and the charming village of Oia are easily accessible. The hotel provides a range of rooms and suites, many featuring private heated plunge pools and spacious terraces.

Best time to visit: Summer for perfect beach weather (but crowds), Fall for fewer crowds, but when the weather is still warm for the beach.

From it’s rich cultural heritage, and world-class music and arts, Vienna is a must-see destination in Europe. Experience Austria’s imperial history at Schönbrunn Palace, relishing in its stunning baroque architecture, explore its gardens, including the stunning Gloriette. Or spend the day at Belvedere Palace, exploring the gardens, baroque buildings, and getting a glimpse of the famous Gustav Klimt’s famous painting The Kiss. Marvel at the gothic architecture of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and relish in the breathtaking views of Vienna from its towers. The Museum Quarter of Vienna itself will occupy your time there, consisting of sixty different cultural institutions throughout twenty-two acres.

Where to Stay: Hotel Sacher
Stay where the original Sacher-Torte (a type of austrian chocolate cake) was created. Choose from a range of rooms, from deluxe rooms, to the presidential suite. Located in the heart of Vienna, it is just steps away from top attractions like the Vienna State Opera, Albertina Museum, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. There are on-site restaurants, and an on-site spa.

Best time to visit: Summer for outdoor music festivals, Winter for Christmas markets

The atmosphere of Edinburgh is unmatched, from it’s medieval architecture, fascinating history, and cultural scene. The most prominent feature of the city is Edinburgh Castle, perched high on Castle Rock. Walk the Royal Mile, popping in and out of historic sites, charming shops, and traditional Scottish pubs. Walk Arthur’s Seat, a large, grass covered hill created when a volcano erupted 350 million years ago. Tour Holyroodhouse, the official scottish residence of the King of England. Learn about the fascinating history of Scotland and its people at the National Museum of Scotland.

Where to Stay: The Witchery by the Castle
The name itself was enough to convince me that this is the best place to stay in Edinburgh. (I can’t be the only one who, when hearing of Scotland, dregs up visions of witches, standing stones, and Hogwarts). Guests can choose from lavishly decorated suites, such as the Guardroom, the Turret, and the Inner Sanctum, each featuring rich velvet drapes, antique furnishings, and deep roll-top baths. Located at the top of the Royal Mile, it is just steps from Edinburgh Castle, and within walking distance of attractions like St. Giles' Cathedral, Holyrood Palace, and Princes Street Gardens.

Best time to visit: Spring when flowers are in bloom, August for the Fringe Festival (but book early, hotels sell out fast)