Europe offers an incredible variety of cultures, landscapes, and experiences, making it a dream destination for travelers. But if you’re planning your first (or even fifth) trip, it can be hard to know where to begin. These 10 cities are perfect entry points — easy to navigate, packed with iconic sights, and ideal for building your European adventure around.
1. Paris, France
The City of Light offers an unbeatable combination of history, cuisine, fashion, and romance. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, Paris is the ultimate introduction to European elegance. Excellent train and flight connections make it easy to explore the rest of the continent.
2. Rome, Italy
With thousands of years of history, Rome is a living museum where you can stroll past the Colosseum, the Vatican, and Renaissance piazzas in a single afternoon. It’s ideal for food lovers and history buffs alike. Plus, high-speed trains make day trips to Florence or Naples a breeze.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Laid-back and bike-friendly, Amsterdam is both charming and easy to explore. Its canals, museums, and cozy cafés make it a great place to adjust to European culture. With its central location, it’s also an excellent jumping-off point for Belgium, Germany, and beyond.
4. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona combines beach vibes with artistic flair and Mediterranean flavor. From Gaudí’s whimsical architecture to bustling tapas bars, it’s a lively start to any Spanish itinerary. Direct flights and great weather year-round make it a perennial favorite.
5. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s colorful streets, affordable prices, and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for first-time visitors to Europe. It’s a gateway to coastal getaways, wine country, and nearby cities like Porto or Sintra. Start your European journey here for a relaxing and scenic experience.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague offers a fairy-tale setting at a surprisingly reasonable cost. Wander the cobblestone lanes, cross the historic Charles Bridge, and marvel at the Prague Castle. It’s centrally located and well connected to cities like Vienna, Berlin, and Budapest.
7. London, England
For English-speaking travelers, London is the easiest soft landing in Europe. World-class museums, royal landmarks, and a diverse culinary scene make it endlessly fascinating. Eurostar access to Paris and Brussels opens up even more adventures.
8. Vienna, Austria
Elegant and orderly, Vienna is a feast for the eyes and ears. Explore grand palaces, sip coffee in historic cafés, or take in a classical concert. It’s also a hub for travel into Central and Eastern Europe.
9. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a beautiful blend of old-world grandeur and modern vibrancy. Relax in thermal baths by day and enjoy a buzzing nightlife after sunset. It’s one of Europe’s best-value destinations and a great way to experience Eastern European charm.
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
Clean, creative, and effortlessly cool, Copenhagen is Scandinavia’s perfect starting point. Bike-friendly streets, Nordic design, and top-rated restaurants make it an inspiring first stop. Plus, easy train connections to Sweden and Germany add extra flexibility.
Wherever you choose to begin, each of these cities offers something unique — and each is perfectly suited for launching a broader European itinerary. Whether you’re drawn to grand architecture, culinary delights, coastal escapes, or cultural treasures, the perfect start to your European adventure is just a booking away.