Best European Vacations
Ahh, Europe. What American hasn't dreamt of backpacking across it, honeymooning in it, or spending an extended holiday immersed in it? There's something quite magical about the continent across the pond, but it can be quite overwhelming to figure out just where you want to go, especially if your time is limited. After careful consideration—on both our part and yours—U.S. News Travel has ranked Europe's best vacation destinations.
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Why go: Barcelona makes for a very fun vacation that visitors of all ages can appreciate. The playful designs of Gaudi's Parc Güell and La Sagrada Família astound observers, while La Seu (the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia) and Montjuïc Castle showcase the city's traditional side. When you tire of architecture, take a load off along the beach or sip sangria along Las Ramblas. Read More»
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Why go: Paris is a no-brainer, really. A picturesque city split by the River Seine, Paris is filled with museums (like the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay), gardens (like the Tuileries or Luxembourg), monuments (like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe), and churches (like the Sacré Coeur and Notre Dame). To say that it might appeal to a wide array of travelers is an understatement. Read More»
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Why go: Berlin can be likened to the other major cosmopolitan cities, like London and New York; however, that would be unfair to the German capital. In addition to all its urban charms—buzzing nightlife, fine dining, seriously original fashion, and innovative museums—Berlin offers visitors a history lesson (albeit a very somber one) with Holocaust memorials and remnants of the Cold War. Read More»
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Why go: Budapest is an intriguing place to visit. Although it's not at the top of many Americans' European to-do list, Budapest merits more consideration. Its architectural beauty, cheap eats, and unique culture are testaments to the city's rich history. If you need to picture it, just think of Budapest as the backpackers' Vienna; it's fun, young, and budget-friendly. Read More»
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Why go: One of the biggest perks of Lisbon is its affordability. You might pay a hefty sum getting here, but you'll pay next to nothing (relative to other Western European capitals) on accommodations, meals, and attractions. Travelers enjoy spotting gothic cathedrals, lounging on the beaches, perusing quaint shops, and exploring interesting museums. Read More»
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Why go: Exploring a world-class museum like the British Museum, seeing a musical in Leicester Square, touring Parliament and the Tower of London, and gorging on fish 'n' chips at a local pub are all part of a London vacation. And the lack of a language barrier makes this city an easy one to experience. However, London's high hotel prices can make bargain-hunters cringe. Read More»
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Why go: Visiting Prague's historical districts is like stepping into a fairy tale. The stunning gothic architecture of the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle appeal to visitors of all ages. Plus, this city's love of music, local lagers, and quaint cafés is contagious. You'll also appreciate Prague's affordability as hotels and attractions cost relatively little to enjoy. Read More»
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Why go: There's much more to this city than just the Red Light District and the notorious coffeeshop culture. Amsterdam is actually very family-friendly: Bike rides along the canals are always enjoyable and french fries are a staple of the local diet. Amsterdam also boasts several notable attractions, such as the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum. Read More»
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Why go: Travel to and from Madrid (by plane or train) is relatively easy and budget-friendly. Once you're in the city, you'll find plenty of opportunities to experience the local culture. Consider savoring an afternoon in Retiro Park, shopping for souvenirs in the Mercado San Miguel, roaming museums like the Prado, and savoring delicious tapas. Read More»
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Why go: Roma is another 'duh' city on your European tour. The aroma of fresh Italian cooking wafts through alleys; locals stalk the streets wearing local couture (Versace, Gucci, Prada); and historic sites surprise you at every turn. So many cultures have converged on Rome that you can practically chart the evolution of Western society on a city map, from the ancient Colosseum to St. Peter's Basilica. Read More»
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Why go: Istanbul has a split personality: Half of Istanbul rests in Europe, the other half in Asia. Notable sites like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque bear evidence of the two converging worlds. For a taste of Istanbul's lively culture—which is unlike anything you'd experience in Western European cities—spend a few hours hunting for bargains in the Grand Bazaar. Read More»
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Why go: Firenze gives visitors a taste of a more authentic, small-town Italy. Set in gorgeous Tuscany, Florence boasts renowned museums, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering Italian cuisine. You'll gaze at the Uffizi's art, admire Michelangelo's David, and climb to the top of the Duomo. Still, the true experience comes amid the narrow stone streets and local shops. Read More»
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Why go: Crete is relatively cost efficient, despite the hassle of getting there (you'll have to take a connecting flight or ferry from Athens). But once you finally make it there, you'll be enchanted by Greece's largest island. Crete abounds with things to do for just about every type of traveler—outdoorsy folks, beach-bums, partiers, and gourmands. Read More»
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Why go: Copenhagen is known for its canals, castles, gardens, museums, antique shops, and flea markets. And did we mention that this Danish city is home to Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid? This makes for a great vacation for urban adventurers who relish in taking the road less traveled. Unfortunately for budget-minded travelers, this northern European city does not yield cheap prices. Read More»
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Why go: Peter the Great built this city on the unlikely site of a swamp, but Russia's "window to the West" soon became the country's most ambient city. St. Petersburg visitors will discover Tsarist palaces to expore, museums (like the Hermitage) to tour, and vodka bars to enjoy. But a vacation here is hardly cheap; if you're maintaining a budget, consider another Eastern European city, like Riga. Read More»
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Why go: Zürich offers travelers a breath of fresh air. Yes, there are the requisite churches and museums, but the nature of a modern city is readily apparant. Visitors can sample the vibrant nightlife centered of Zürich West and the retail therapy of the Bahnhofstrasse. Note: In this international banking hub, don't expect to encounter budget prices on hotels. Read More»
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Why Go: While Iceland's capital holds some interesting sites, like Hallgrimur's Church and Perlan, you should plan on getting out of town. Take the Golden Circle Route past waterfalls, geysers, and cliffs. Nature is the real star of the show here. If you don't believe us, ask the Eyjafjallajökull volcano (if you can pronounce that), which blew a seismic fit in 2010 just for the attention. Read More»
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Why go: Surrounded by the rugged Scottish landscape, Edinburgh humbly possesses a wealth of attractions. Visitors can stroll the Royal Mile, climb the nearby hills, and tour ancient castles. Meanwhile, the city's numerous bed and breakfasts offer travelers an authentic local experience at affordable prices. (Plus, the Scottish are rumored to be more approachable than the English.) Read More»
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Why Go: This gem on the French Riviera radiates with star power. Culminating in the famous film festival, Cannes' charms lure visitors throughout the year. Stroll La Croisette promenade, peruse the flower stands at Marché Forville, pick up some designer duds along fashionable Rue d'Antibes, or test your luck at Casino Croisette. Just don't forget to savor the sunny shoreline and decadent French cuisine. Read More»
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Why Go: This portion of the Croatian coast once stood in the shadow of neighboring Dubrovnik. But no longer: Central Dalmatia serves up history, culture, and majestic scenery. Step into Diocletian's Palace and you'll see why the rich and powerful have been coming here for centuries. Sample the local culture in Hvar Town, or if it's sun and sand you seek, head straight for the Pakleni Islands. Read More»
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