These and the best cities in Europe and you should absolutely add them your Bucket list.
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1. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is an incredible city that is often overlooked for the romance of Paris or the excitement of Munich.
Why Is it one of my favorite cities in Europe?
It could be that we had the most passionate tour guide, whose love for Berlin may have rubbed off on me. It could also be the German beer, the nightlife, or even the enormous amount of significant World history that occurred here.
Ultimately Berlin takes my top spot due to its grit and the overwhelming feeling of acceptance. This city, which has been through so much, has taken adversity and transformed itself into a place that embraces change. Walking around you can see the past but you can also feel the energy of change that envelops the city.
Read more about my time in Berlin!
2. Madrid, Spain
I am a bit biased since Madrid was my home for a Year. Regardless Madrid has everything you could want as a traveler..…. Incredible architecture, delicious food, history, and it is oozing with culture.
Many people overlook Madrid for the more touristy Barcelona but I would argue that Madrid is the place to be.
If you want to experience a large city in Spain that still holds tight to its culture and roots, that city is Madrid. It is lively, and once spring hits locals can be seen spilling out of every bar and plaza. Madrid has a bangin nightlife, exquisite parks, and an infinite number of bars where you can enjoy your Mahou or Tinto de Verano (Madrid lifestyle staples).
3. Porto, Portugal
If I had to choose just one word to describe Porto it would be, authentic.
This city is filled with soulful people who are undeniably proud of their city. It holds strong to the heritage and traditions of its past while prizing itself with its progressive ideals. This city and its forward-thinking has sparked revolutions and change across the Iberian peninsula.
No wonder its unique traditions have inspired one of the world’s most popular book series: Harry Potter! Also, make sure to hang out by the river in the evening and you might be lucky enough to catch a performance by local artist @ariesmusiic.
4. Stockholm, Sweden
I grew up in a family with a strong Scandinavian heritage. We celebrate a traditional Scandinavian Christmas eve, complete with lutefisk, potato sausage, and hardtack. So visiting Stockholm for me was extra sweet because I had the opportunity to learn more about my family’s origins.
A Scandinavian culture truly embraces cozy. Stockholm with its warm colors, Intentional design (even their metro stations are cool) and cinnamon rolls are a perfect example.
While wandering over bridges and between the islands that form this wonderful city, It embraces you in its warmth and serene energy. Did I mention the CINNAMON ROLLS,? I would return JUST for the Cinnamon rolls!
Stockholm is definitely one of the coziest cities in Europe!
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish have a word that describes the city of Copenhagen perfectly…. hygge. It is usually used to refer to all things comfortable, warm, and a feeling that comes with good conversation.
In America, we would simplify this to mean cozy, but it is so much more and a bit difficult to translate properly. Copenhagen is colorful and happy.
The people who live here seem to have life all figured out and it shows through their design, food, and lifestyle. I love the warm coffee shops with their blankets, comfy chairs, and candlelight.
I enjoy how the very traditional side of Copenhagen…castles, Nyhaven Canal, and the Little Mermaid, intertwines with an unconventional edge.
Directly across the harbor from Ariel sits the Reffen market which is an outdoor food court formed with up-cycled shipping containers. This space hosts an eclectic assortment of cuisines, shops, and artwork. It is simply a great place to eat, drink, and play lawn games with your friends. Just a short bike ride away sits The Free Town Christiania, a haven for the counterculture of Copenhagen. These unique places add an additional layer to this incredible City.