Top 10 most beautiful capital cities in Europe ‘everyone should visit’ | Europe | Travel

Europe has no shortage of beautiful capital cities, but choosing the most stunning one can be difficult. Beauty is often subjective, for some it’s grand buildings, while for others it’s cobbled streets, scenic parks or riverside views.

That’s why the Express has looked at several travel rankings and expert lists to put together a list of 10 European capitals that appear again and again. These are the places visitors say must be seen at least once and cities people remember for their charm, landmarks and atmosphere.

Paris is often called one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Famous for the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame Cathedral, the French capital is packed with iconic sights. 

The River Seine, Montmartre and the Palace of Versailles are all popular with visitors. 

People often say the best way to enjoy Paris is to walk through its streets, sit in a café and take in the atmosphere. 

Many tourists agree that Paris is a city everyone should visit at least once.

London mixes old and new, with landmarks like Big Ben, Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace alongside modern skyscrapers. 

Visitors enjoy walking along the South Bank or relaxing in parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park. 

Colourful neighbourhoods such as Notting Hill and Camden Town are also popular. 

With so much to see and do, many who visit London say it’s a capital that should be seen at least once in a lifetime.

Spain’s capital is known for its wide streets, sunny weather and grand buildings. 

The Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor are must-see landmarks, while El Retiro Park offers calm and green space in the centre. 

Museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia are filled with art. 

People who have been to Madrid often say it has a lively charm that makes it a city you have to visit to really appreciate.

Berlin has a unique mix of history, art and modern infrastructure. 

The Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall are just some of the reminders of the troubled past, while Museum Island and the Berlin Cathedral offer beautiful architecture. 

The city is also full of green spaces like Tiergarten Park. 

Tourists often say Berlin’s mix of old and new makes it a capital that’s both interesting and beautiful and a place that should be on every travel list.

Rome is filled with ancient landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon. 

It’s also home to the Vatican, St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. 

Fountains, piazzas and cobbled streets give the city its charm. 

Many say Rome feels like a museum in the open air, and visitors agree that it’s one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe and must be visited at least once.

Prague is known for its fairytale-like beauty. 

Its historic centre features Gothic and Baroque buildings, while Charles Bridge offers amazing views of the city. 

Prague Castle, the Astronomical Clock and the colourful houses of Mala Strana are all popular spots. 

Visitors say the city’s charm and old-world feel make it a place you simply have to see.

Budapest sits on both sides of the Danube River, with grand buildings and thermal baths on both banks. 

The Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion are standout sights. 

Many enjoy the view from the Chain Bridge or a river cruise at night. 

Those who visit often say Budapest is a beautiful city that feels both elegant and welcoming. Others have called it “a hidden gem that must be seen”.

Vienna is known for its classical style, grand palaces and clean streets. 

The Schönbrunn Palace, St Stephen’s Cathedral and Belvedere Palace are just some of the city’s highlights. 

Many enjoy walking along the Ringstrasse or visiting traditional cafés. 

With its history, music and charm, visitors say Vienna is one of Europe’s prettiest capitals and deserves to be on everyone’s list.

Warsaw has gone through huge changes over the years and is now one of the most vibrant capitals in Europe. 

Its Old Town has been carefully rebuilt and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The colourful streets, Royal Castle and Lazienki Park all add to its charm. 

People who go to Warsaw often say its transformation is amazing and that it’s a place worth visiting.

Lisbon is built on seven hills, giving it amazing views and lots of character. 

The Alfama district, with its narrow streets and live Fado music, is a favourite. 

Visitors enjoy riding the yellow trams, walking by the Tagus River, and seeing landmarks like Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. 

Many people who visit Lisbon say it’s a city full of warmth, colour and charm, and a must-see in Europe.