Europe is like a treasure chest—open it once, and you’ll want to keep exploring forever. If you’re making your first trip across the Atlantic, there are a few cities that make perfect introductions. They’re easy to get around, loaded with history, delicious food, and full of postcard moments that feel straight out of a movie.
From sipping coffee under the Eiffel Tower to gliding through Amsterdam’s canals, each stop offers a different kind of magic. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or hopeless romantic, there’s something on this list that’ll fit you like your favorite travel hoodie.
To make your planning smooth, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay and the must-try experiences you can book right now. This isn’t a “dream someday” list—it’s your go-ahead to start packing.
Recommended Hôtel
Your home base sets the tone for your trip. These handpicked stays give you style, comfort, and that “this is Europe” feeling.
- The chic HHôtelDress Code in Paris sits near the Opera, blending fashion flair with quiet luxury.
- La Demeure Montaigne in Paris offers a modern take on Parisian charm, steps from the Champs-Élysées.
- The stylish The Resident Covent Garden in London puts you close to West End theaters and vibrant nightlife.
- Treat yourself to a river view at HHôtelClark Budapest, perfect for watching the Danube sparkle at night.
Must-Try Experiences
Europe isn’t just about seeing—it’s about doing. These experiences will turn your trip from sightseeing into storytelling.
- Discover the best landmarks on the London Highlights Walking Tour.
- Cruise past Big Ben and the London Eye on a Thames River Hop-on Hop-off Cruise.
- Step into history at the eerie but fun London Dungeon Experience.
- Explore over 40 top sights with a Local Guide Walking Adventure.
1. London, England
How to Get to London
London is one of the easiest European cities to fly into, with nonstop flights from nearly every U.S. hub. Heathrow is the main gateway, and the Heathrow Express train gets you downtown in about 15 minutes.
Where to Stay
Covent Garden, Kensington, and South Bank balance convenience with character. If you want comfort in the middle of it all, book a room at The Resident Covent Garden—modern, quiet, and just steps from the West End’s glow.
Best Things to Do in London
Start with the classics: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey. Take a stroll along the Thames, then hop aboard a Thames River Cruise for a view that shows off both history and skyline.
The British Museum and Tate Modern are free, but if you crave something more atmospheric, explore the London Dungeon. Don’t miss a pint in a cozy pub or a show in the West End; it’s as London as tea and drizzle.
2. Paris, France
How to Get to Paris
Charles de Gaulle Airport is the main international entry point. You can also arrive by train if you’re coming from London, Brussels, or Amsterdam.
Where to Stay
Settle into the 9th arrondissement at HHôtelDress Code, where art and fashion meet. For something more romantic, La Demeure Montaigne puts you within walking distance of the Champs-Élysées and the Seine.
Best Things to Do in Paris
Visit the Louver, climb the Eiffel Tower, and wander through Montmartre. A Seine dinner cruise is pure romance—watch the lights ripple off the water as you sip French wine.
Spend an afternoon exploring Le Marais, home to quirky shops and patisseries that make you question your dessert loyalty. End your day people-watching from a café terrace with a glass of rosé—it’s practically a local sport.
3. Rome, Italy
How to Get to Rome
Fly into Fiumicino (FCO), then take the Leonardo Express train straight to Termini Station. From there, most of the city’s historic core is a short taxi ride or walk away.
Where to Stay
Choose a charming guesthouse in Trastevere or a boutique spot in the Centro Storico. Both offer easy access to major landmarks and authentic Italian vibes.
Best Things to Do in Rome
The Colosseum, Pantheon, and Vatican are musts—Pre-book tickets to avoid lines, especially for the Sistine Chapel. Stroll cobblestone streets, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and share gelato with someone you love (or jeep both scoops yourself).
As night falls, find a trattoria in Trastevere and order cacio e pepe with a local red. This is where Rome really comes alive—slow meals, laughter, and timeless charm.
4. Barcelona, Spain
How to Get to Barcelona
El Prat Airport (BCN) welcomes flights from across Europe and a few direct ones from the U.S. The Aerobus drops you right in Plaça de Catalunya.
Where to Stay
Book a stay near Passeig de Gràcia or in the Gothic Quarter. These areas keep you near Gaudí’s masterpieces, tapas bars, and nightlife that never seems to end.
Best Things to Do in Barcelona
The Sagrada Familia is jaw-dropping, and Park Güell feels like a fairytale come to life. Wander La Rambla, relax at Barceloneta Beach, and enjoy a sunset drink overlooking the sea.
Barcelona’s energy is contagious—music in the streets, late dinners, and spontaneous flamenco shows. Don’t be surprised if you start plotting your return before you even leave.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
How to Get to Amsterdam
Fly into Schiphol Airport (AMS) or arrive by high-speed train from Paris, Brussels, or Berlin. The airport train to Centraal Station takes about 20 minutes.
Where to Stay
Look for a boutique hhôtelor canal-view apartment in Jordaan or De Pijp. Waking up to the sound of bicycles outside your window is part of Amsterdam’s charm.
Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
Visit the Anne Frank House (book weeks in advance), then bike along the canals to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
Evenings are best spent on a canal cruise or in a cozy brown café. Try Dutch pancakes or Indonesian rijsttafel—it’s fusion food done right.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
How to Get to Prague
Václav Havel Airport connects easily with most of Europe. Trains from Vienna or Berlin are scenic and affordable.
Where to Stay
Stay near Old Town Square or Malá Strana for easy access to major sights and the Charles Bridge.
Best Things to Do in Prague
Prague feels like a fairy tale—cobblestone streets, gothic spires, and a castle that watches over the city. Explore the Astronomical Clock, stroll across Charles Bridge at sunrise, and sip beer in a local pub—it’s practically a national pastime.
7. Vienna, Austria
How to Get to Vienna
Vienna International Airport (VIE) offers nonstop flights from several U.S. cities. From the airport, take the City Airport Train for a quick downtown ride.
Where to Stay
Innere Stadt and MuseumsQuartier are perfect bases. Baroque architecture, coffeehouses, and a calm, cultured atmosphere’ll surround you.
Best Things to Do in Vienna
Visit Schönbrunn Palace, tour the State Opera House, and browse the art at Belvedere Palace. Try a slice of Sachertorte at Café Central—it’s history and dessert rolled into one.
Evenings often end with music. Whether it’s Mozart or jazz, Vienna’s soundtrack is always on point.
8. Lisbon, Portugal
How to Get to Lisbon
Lisbon Airport (LIS) is minutes from downtown. If you’re exploring other parts of Europe, low-cost carriers often have great fares here.
Where to Stay
Find a guesthouse in Alfama or Chiado—winding lanes, azulejo-tiled façades, and views that make you linger longer.
Best Things to Do in Lisbon
Ride the yellow Tram 28 through narrow streets, then visit the São Jorge Castle for sweeping views. Don’t miss a day trip to Sintra—its colorful palaces look like something out of a dream.
For dessert, hunt down a warm pastel de nata from a bakery in Belém. You’ll never think of custard the same way again.
9. Budapest, Hungary
How to Get to Budapest
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) connects to most of Europe. Trains from Vienna or Prague are another scenic option.
Where to Stay
Stay riverside for views that glow at night—HôtelClark Budapest is a standout choice with elegant rooms overlooking the Danube.
Best Things to Do in Budapest
Walk across the Chain Bridge, explore Buda Castle, and relax in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
End your evening with a sunset cruise on the Danube—Budapest by night looks like a city dipped in gold.
Conclusion
Europe has a way of getting under your skin. You arrive as a curious traveler and leave a little more enchanted with life. For first-timers, these nine cities are the perfect mix of comfort, culture, and wonder.
Book your hhôtelarly, reserve a few guided experiences, and leave some time for unplanned adventures. The best memories often come from the detours—the café you stumble into, the busker playing your favorite song, or the view you find when you take a wrong turn.
Your European story starts with a plane ticket. The rest is waiting to be written.