Travel
Traveling to Europe - Must visit small places
Among the first places that spring to thoughts, before traveling to Europe are the Colosseum in Rome, Big Ben in London, Stonehenge in Wiltshire, and the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Even while each of these places is amazing, they do not even come close to exploring everything that Europe offers. You'll discover hundreds of delightful small places in Europe that will certainly add value to your visit. And despite their small size, they nonetheless provide the same outstanding architectural features and breathtaking scenery as their urban counterparts. It's indeed possible to explore a more genuine, conventional side of Europe by visiting some of the smaller places scattered around the continent. Following is a handful of Europe's most picturesque small yet attractive locations in case you're considering a trip there soon.
1. Bilbao in Spain
Spain's Bilbao is a little bit of a secret treasure during a Europe trip. A charming small place, Bilbao is surrounded by mountains and sweeping green hills. The city is a rural area in Basque Spain with an urban landscape. The city of Bilbao, which sparkles on the Nervion River, is home to several ancient sites, cutting-edge buildings, and top-notch museums. Casco Viejo, Bilbao's lovely historic district, is located there.
In Bilbao, almost every building is constructed with the involvement of a well-known architect. Architecture and design enthusiasts will be in ecstasy in Bilbao.
Visitors who love food will also be happy. Bilbao is a city with a strong commitment to the table and haute cuisine.
Bilbao's landmark is the Guggenheim Museum, which opened in 1997. Famous outdoor sculptures may be seen all around the museum's outside courtyards. A contemporary art collection comparable to those of Europe's top institutions is housed there.
2. Bremen in Germany
Bremen is regarded as the loveliest small place in Germany. Bremen is a diverse city with charming ancient architecture, museums, gardens, and trendy restaurants. The Roland Statue, the Markplatz, and the Rathaus are three UNESCO-listed landmarks that are present in Bremen.
The Markplatz, the city's main square, is where the picturesque city of Bremen is located. It is a place of beautiful architecture which encompasses multiple fountains and sculptures.
The charming Rathaus and Bremen Cathedral are located here. You can schedule visits to view inside the spectacular "Golden Chamber" of the Rathaus or City Hall.
Cathedral in Bremen features majestic twin towers. It was created in the year 789. It has survived despite being attacked and destroyed by fire. Any visitor can climb the tower to enjoy the top views.
You must visit the Schnoorviertel in Bremen's Schnoor area if you wish to go back in time. Iron signs, half-timbered homes from the 17th and 18th centuries, and charming meandering cobblestone pathways may all be found there. Thus, traveling to Europe for aesthetics, Bremen should be among your top priorities.
3. Arles in France
Arles is overflowing with Roman artifacts, amazing artwork, and vibrant pastel facades. The Camargue can be accessed from Arles as well.
Among the finest maintained colosseums in the world is located in Arles. The Colosseum in Rome served as its inspiration. Additional Roman theatre and necropolis remnants may be seen nearby.
Arles is the ideal location if any visitor is a lover of Vincent Van Gogh. Arles was the home and workplace of Van Gogh. Numerous museums with Van Gogh themes could be found if you follow the Van Gogh route.
Luma Arles, a fantastic new art center, created by Frank Gehry, is also present in Arles.
4. Basel in Switzerland
Basel is a tiny city close to the Rhine River. It is situated where the borders of Switzerland, Germany, and France converge. Thus, it appeals to a variety of cultures.
Basel offers striking designs and a charming old town with cobblestone streets. Lovers of architecture and the arts adore Basel.
Each year in June, Basel plays home to Art Basel, one of the most well-known art fairs in Europe. Basel welcomes 60,000+ tourists to experience 300 galleries showcasing the creations of countless artists.
The exhibition provides a global perspective of contemporary art in motion. Traveling to Europe for art is unquestionably worthwhile due to the tremendous features of Basel.
The Kuntsmuseum Basel has the finest permanent collection in the city. Works dating back to the fifteenth century are kept there.
5. Bruges in Belgium
A very well-liked small city in Europe is the medieval city of Bruges. It has aesthetic beauty, with half-timbered houses, enchanting waterways, and historic structures.
The finest thing to do in Bruges is taking a walk around the Old Town. View the bell tower and the market square.
Additionally, there are many must-see attractions in Bruges. The City Hall houses the most opulent and historic Gothic hall found in this area of Europe.
The Groeninge Museum will be appealing to art enthusiasts. The finest archive of Flemish works of art in the entire globe is housed there.
Bruges is not only attractive but also a heaven for foodies. There are numerous eateries throughout the city that serve some of the best mussels, fries, and waffles in the entire world.
6. Delft in the Netherlands
A charming little city in Europe is Delft. It is fairly hidden that few visitors enter.
The charming university town of Delft has a small-town charm and a vintage appeal. It has eye-catching waterways all around it. Delft is a city where idle wandering is the finest activity. The whole city of Delft is also accessible by bicycle.
Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague may all be reached by a day trip to Delft. It also produces the well-known blue Delftware ceramics, which are easily recognizable.
The Markt is where Delft is centered. The Deft City Hall and the New Church are located there. If you're up for the challenge, ascend the New Church's tower via the arduous, serpentine stairway for breathtaking sights.
Delft is one of the main tourist charms, and it's easy to understand why once you visit. Delft is the ideal charming small city in Europe that tourists dream of visiting because of its understated beauty and delightfully medieval vibe.
7. Cesky Krumlov of Czech Republic
Cesky Krumlov, which is encircled by mountains, is undoubtedly a fantasy destination. During a Europe trip, this fantasy town is ideal for those who appreciate architecture. Within the city limits, almost every street is picture-perfect.
Cesky Krumlov is best admired for taking a leisurely walk across the city. It's a place built for strolling and turning your head. The striking primary feature of the town is the Cesky Krumlov Castle. Inside are lavish spaces, including a gorgeously maintained Baroque theatre.
The Old Town is pedestrianized and is located across the river from the castle. Along with the twisting streets, Gothic structures bend. The central plaza is where Old Town gets its name. Since the 12th century, it is bordered by a variety of Renaissance and Baroque burgher residences.
8. Dubrovnik of Croatia
Dubrovnik is an attractive walled city. It is divine and brilliant. The Venetian-Gothic town is picturesque and has a magical appearance.
Due to its ideal location on the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, striking mountain background, and outstanding historical sites, this small city is an ideal place to visit.
One of the most impressive medieval fortifications is its walls. Since 1979, Dubrovnik has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Due to its enormous popularity, Dubrovnik may get busy throughout the summer. However, if you visit in the off-season, you can have the whole European little city to yourself.
9. Freiburg in Germany
Traveling to Europe can be a life-changing experience due to the classic beauty of Freiburg. Freiburg is a short-day journey from Basel, Switzerland, or the Alsace area of France.
Wandering about aimlessly is the best thing to do in Freiburg. Naturally, as you meander down the cobblestone pathways, you'll run upon Freiburg's main sites.
The Cathedral Square, also known as Munsterplatz, is the heart of Freiburg. You may buy fresh flowers or bratwurst at the daily farmer's market.
Freiburg Cathedral, an elaborate red sandstone Gothic building constructed between 1200 and 1530, is also located at Munsterplatz. The stunning Historical Merchant's Hall can be seen on the square's south side.
10. Bergamo in Italy
Between Milan and Lake Como, in the Lombardy area of Italy, lies the lovely little city of Bergamo. In terms of elegant structure and elegance, Bergamo surpasses Italy's capital. The town is a fantastic starting point for exploring the northern part of Italy.
Bergamo, which has an upper and lower town, is a fascinating historical city. Naturally, the older, more Renaissance-style section of town is called the upper city, or Citta Alta. The Venetian Walls from the 16th century may also be walked about.
Piazza Vecchia is the heart of Bergamo. Every kind of store, café, and restaurant may be found there. The Piazza del Duomo is the other plaza that is a must-see. You may get there by passing via the Palazzo della Ragione's archway.
11. Lucerne in Switzerland
Lucerne is a beautiful alpine city in Switzerland's alps, located on the brink of a lake. It was justifiably a frequent destination on the Romantic era's "Grand Tour" of Europe.
The cobblestone city center of Lucerne is home to historical fountains, vibrant facades, and its renowned wooden bridges. You just need to wander around the Old Town and go on the cobalt-blue Lake Lucerne to get a feel of the city.
Chapel Bridge is Lucerne's most famous landmark. It is a common sight along Lucerne's seafront and dates back to the 14th century.
The lovely Jesuit Church, with its onion-shaped domes, is another eye-catching landmark on the riverfront. The remnants of the ancient city walls may be climbed for breathtaking vistas across the area.
You must add lucerne to your list before traveling to Europe as it is home to several excellent museums and has a large collection of Picasso works. Lucerne is a manifestation of peace and a perfect tiny European city.
12. Porto in Portugal
The second-largest city in Portugal is Porto. However, it is small, lovely, and entirely walkable. The city seems old and is decorated in pastel hues.
Porto seems to be known for its extravagantly painted churches. The historic riverfront neighborhood of Porto is called Cais de Ribeira. It is a medieval maze of twisting, tiny streets, and fading pastel-colored buildings.
Along the riverbank, tall, vivid row homes are crowded together. Additionally, there are many hip pubs, cafés, and stores, as well as street performers and artists. You may get a breathtaking perspective of Porto if you cross the twin-level Luís I bridge on foot.
13. Bologna in Italy
Bologna, often known as "La Grassa" or "the Big Fat", is known for its mouthwatering cuisine. While traveling to Europe, you will find Bologna as Italy's undiscovered treasure.
It's one of Europe's top small places. Bologna is a medieval city with impressive architecture, lovely piazzas, and fine dining establishments.
The Piazza Maggiore, the city's central plaza, is where visitors can find Bologna's must-see sights. The sizable Basilica of San Petronio is located on one side of the square. The elegant Palazzo dei Rei Enzo is on the other.
The Santo Stefano Church is both Bologna's most well-known landmark and most stunning church. Petronio built a complex of seven churches on a Roman temple. According to legend, Dante spent time in the Romanesque cloisters after being banished from Florence due to his political views.
The Asinelli Tower, Bologna's own leaning tower, is located in Piazza della Mercanzia. For sweeping vistas, ascend the 500 stairs to the summit. Enjoy lunch or gelato in the charming plaza.
Then go to Bologna's historic Quadrilatero and stroll through the narrow, shop-filled medieval streets. Make sure to pass by the lovely terra cotta arcades and the renowned 666 Portico.
14. Nuremberg in Germany
Nuremberg is ideal if you're looking for a little bit of fairytale allure in a little European city. It's a lovely blend of small-town and worldwide features.
The castle at Nuremberg is from the thirteenth century. You'll find a history lesson about Nuremberg which will add beauty to your Europe travel.
The elaborate Beautiful Fountain is located in the bustling Hauptmarkt Square. The stunning St. Sebaldus and St. Lorenz churches in the Gothic style are also well worth seeing.
Nuremberg is more than simply a gorgeous face. It has several facets and turbulent history. There are many layers to its history as a former imperial metropolis and a medieval fortress. Nuremberg's attraction is a result of this dichotomy.
15. Lyon in France
Lyon is a fascinating small city in Europe. Lyon, which dates back to the Roman era, is France's second-most historic and culturally significant city after Paris.
The ancient old town on the Saône River's bank, the Presqu'île peninsula, and Fourvière Hill are the main tourist attractions of Lyon.
On Fourvière Hill, you may also find Lyon's best Roman remains. The Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, a UNESCO property, is open to visitors without a fee.
Returning down the hill, Lyon's Old Town has a dense collection of Renaissance structures that have been meticulously restored. You may wander around the charming squares, covered alleys, and alleyways. On your walk, you may also enjoy the many street art paintings in Lyon.
Dining at an authentic "Bouchon," or little bistro, in Old Town is the most well-known culinary experience in Lyon. The Bouchon started as simple hotels that catered to visiting silk merchants. Quality cuisine, not expensive dining, is the primary focus in Lyon that will embellish your Europe trip.
16. Siena in Italy
Due to its charming medieval architecture, delectable cuisine, and sumptuous Chianti, Siena is one of the greatest little towns to visit during a Europe trip.
There is nowhere better to soak up the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Visit Siena for at least one day. You will be in love with this place.
You should take your time exploring the pedestrianized historic core. A well-kept burnt orange fantasy, it is dotted with adorable cafés and boutiques.
The Duomo, or Siena Cathedral, is Siena's most well-known landmark. For fans of anything Gothic, it is among Europe's most stunning cathedrals.
The cathedral is Siena's emblem. It is completely covered with the distinctive white and dark green marble of Siena. Every square inch of the building is embellished with marble, frescos, sculptures, and mosaics.
Conclusion
There is no dearth of small places in Europe that are worthwhile seeing, including quaint seaside settlements, ancient suburbs, and fantasy towns tucked away in snow-capped hills. Our lives will become more beautiful as a result of seeing these places. One life is all you got. While traveling to Europe you must go to these little heavenly places to enrich your path through life.