Europe is full of fascinating cities – from capitals like Budapest and Prague to the smaller cities of Verona and Bruges, there are so many defining moments and “aha!” moments I’ve had on my solo adventures across Europe. If you’re anything like me (I’m a sucker for a good visual) and want to see the best Europe has to offer, these are the most beautiful cities in Europe.
1. Florence, Italy
The capital of Italy’s region of Tuscany is commonly regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and after visiting a handful of times over the years, I’ve gotta say I wholeheartedly agree. Florence is home to so much living history from the Renaissance period that you’ll be forgiven for giving yourself whiplash as you try to look in every direction and soak it all in. Beyond the Cathedral and the Ponte Vecchio, be sure to allow time to get off the main tourist thoroughfare and discover all that Florence has to offer by way of public parks, libraries, and smaller art galleries. 
2. Vienna, Austria
There are few cities I can say compare to the beauty of Paris but Vienna is one such city I can’t argue comes close or dare I say it, sits on par. It has been described to me as a cleaner version of the French capital and having visited both a number of times, I also can’t argue with this observation. The coffee house culture is however my favourite aspect of Vienna – it has a way of transporting you to a previous era with how stuffy and old school it is, but somehow so affectionately welcomed with open arms. 
3. Edinburgh, Scotland I’ve said it before and I’ll stand by it time after time, Edinburgh would have to be one of the most underrated cities in Europe, if not the most. There’s something so magical and ethereal about this city that wins the hearts of many (myself included) almost instantly or in my case, before you even arrive. 
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is undeniably one of the most charming cities to visit the world over and with a unique mix of gothic, romanesque and renaissance architectures, has a beauty so unique to itself that no other city quite compares. The Old Town is abuzz with visitors any time of year, so be sure to venture in to the many alleyways off the main streets and create an adventure of your own. 
5. Moscow, Russia
If you’ve been to Moscow you’ll know first hand how impressive and imperial this city is, despite only becoming the capital of the former USSR in 1918. Despite this, there’s an impressive amount of history to discover throughout the capital, starting with the Red Square and of course Russia’s political hub; the Red Square. 
6. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a city so beautiful, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in a real life story book. Commonly regarded to as the most beautiful city in all of Europe, Bruges’ old world charm has an authenticity that isn’t often mimicked in cities when hoards of travellers find out about its’ existence but – somehow – it is managed to retain its’ charm. 
7. Verona, Italy
When you arrive in Verona you might pass out in sheer disbelief of how a city can be so darn beautiful in such a casual, cool-girl kinda way. Verona is said to be the birthplace of Romeo and Juliet (contentious), however you’ll soon see how the rumour started when you spend more than five minutes in the place. 
8. Annecy, France
Annecy is the kind of postcard town you think wouldn’t exist in real life but speaking from experience I can say with certainty that it is even more beautiful in person (hard to believe, I know!) Located in the southeast of France, the city overlooks Lake Annecy, has its’ own system of waterways and isn’t far from the alps, leaving it with a pinch-me backdrop to make it even more ethereal. 
9. Budapest, Hungary
A city as lovely as Budapest, its no wonder the Hungarian capital has become a hot spot for travellers doing the loop around Europe. Just a three hour train ride from Vienna, Budapest is an essential stop in central Europe not only for its unique and fascinating history, but also for its grandeur and beauty that could rival even Paris. The city is sprawling but mostly walkable, as much of the attractions are centred around the Danube. Be sure to venture over the river to Buda and visit Castle Hill and Fisherman’s Bastion for the best views of the city from above. 
10. Barcelona, Spain
It didn’t take me long to fall in love with Barcelona, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Full of colour, magnificent Gaudi architecture and some of the best food you’ll find across Europe (patatas bravas anyone!?), there’s so much to love about this city. As far as beauty goes, you can’t beat the endless architectural marvels in Barcelona – its a picture perfect postcard waiting to happen.