Best Places to Visit in Europe
Estimated Reading Time: 4 MinutesLisbon, Portugal
Hilly, historic, and colorful, Lisbon is an enchanting place to visit in Europe with stunning examples of Moorish and Gothic architecture dotting its steep streets along with markets, eateries, eclectic bars, and unique shops around every corner.
Colorful buildings are the norm in this vibrant city, with pastel tones dominating the scenery downtown. Grab breakfast at the popular Pastéis de Belém for Portuguese pastries and custard tarts, then head to the 16th-century Jeronimos Monastery in grand Late Gothic style for a tour.
The intricately-paved (calçada) Baixa-Chiado city center will entertain you with shops and food in Armazéns do Chiado. Head to the observation deck on the ornate Arco da Rua Augusta, then walk toward the Tagus River to see the stunning Praça do Comércio royal palace and surrounding square, where festivals are held.
Visit the Sé, or the Lisbon Cathedral, stroll through the parks and gardens of the riverfront Belém district, and see for yourself how the boho Bairro Alto neighborhood (home of the Bica Funicular) transforms from sightseeing mecca to nightlife central once the sun sets.
One of the best places to take in panoramic views of Lisbon is from the Moorish São Jorge Castle, with elements dating back to the 2nd century and an imposing presence high up on a hill. Check out Mercado da Riberia for great samples of Lisbon food, like bacalhau (dried, salted cod), da Serra cheese, and enchidos (Portuguese sausages).
Budapest, Hungary
Hungary’s riverfront capital, Budapest, is known for its steamy baths, opulent hilltop castles, and medieval to Neo-Baroque architecture that gives the city a regal feel. Its churches, museums, famous bridges, and monuments make it a treat to visit in Europe.
Budapest’s classicist-style Széchenyi Chain Bridge crosses the Danube River. Take a funicular up to Castle Hill, where you’ll be able to wander cafes and homes along cobbled streets of Old Town of Buda.
Castle Hill is where you can explore the Neo-Baroque Buda Castle (tour the 2 museums now housed inside). The Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum is located in caverns under the castle, then overlook the river from the 7 towers of Fisherman’s Bastion and see the impressive Hungarian Presidential Palace.
Visit Trinity Square to see the 13th-century Matthias Church and the detailed Holy Trinity statue. Gellert Hill is filled with renowned monuments and statues, like the Liberty Statue, Szent Gellert Monument, and Statue of Queen Elizabeth and panoramic views over the city.
Make time to visit the Szechenyi Baths and eat Hungarian food, shop for souvenirs, and meet locals at the Neo-Gothic Central Market Hall. You’ll enjoy grabbing drinks at the cool ruin bars, similar to beer gardens in an abandoned building near St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Dublin, Ireland
The lively city of Dublin, Ireland’s capital, beckons to tourists seeking an upbeat atmosphere surrounded by castles and beautiful scenery, classic Irish pubs, and plenty of museums, parks, and interesting places to check out in this green, walkable city.
The 13th-century Dublin Castle is a major draw for tourists, dating back to the Viking Age and open for guided tours that perfectly set the tone for your trip. Hit up the famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a still-standing relic from Dublin’s medieval period.
You’ll get your fill of Irish history at the National Museum of Ireland, see amazing artworks in the Modern Art Museum, while a visit to the former prison of Killmainham Gaol is educational and interesting.
Spend an afternoon strolling the lovely paths and gardens of Phoenix Park, even visiting the Dublin Zoo if you’re up for it! Whisky aficionados should visit the Jameson or Pearse Lyons distilleries for tours, while a Guinness Storehouse tour with tastings at the rooftop bar lead to great views over the city.
Speaking of drinking and fun, head to Temple Bar (more touristy) or Grafton Street to experience real Irish pubs and live music with a pint of Guinness. There are lots of shops, restaraunts, and small side streets to explore on foot in the area.