Planning your first trip to Europe is exciting, but choosing where to go can feel like a big decision. With so many amazing cities to explore, it’s helpful to start with places that are friendly, easy to get around, and full of famous sights.
In this guide, you’ll find the top cities for first-time travelers. Whether you’re interested in food, art, history, or relaxing views, these destinations offer everything you need for a fun and stress-free European adventure.
TL;DR
Start with cities that are easy to explore and filled with well-known sights. Great first-time spots include London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Prague, Vienna, Barcelona, and Budapest. You can mix and match cities based on what you enjoy most, like food, art, beaches, or castles. Many of these cities are connected by trains, making multi-city trips simple and fun.
Best Cities for Your First Trip to Europe
These cities are popular with first-time travelers because they’re easy to get around, packed with amazing sights, and offer great food and culture. Here’s what makes each one a great starting point.
1. London, United Kingdom
Why it’s great for first-timers:
- English is the main language, so it’s easy to ask for help or read signs.
- You can see world-famous landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace.
- Many of the top museums, like the British Museum and the Natural History Museum, are free to enter.
Bonus tip:
The Tube (London’s subway) is easy to use, and the city is a major airport hub, making it a great place to begin or end your trip.
2. Paris, France
What makes it special:
- You’ll see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Paris is known for beautiful streets, cafés, and bakeries.
- Enjoy foods like croissants, crepes, and fresh baguettes.
Bonus tip:
The Paris Metro is one of the best in Europe. Many people in tourist areas speak English, and signs often include translations.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Top reasons to go:
- The canals are beautiful and fun to explore by boat.
- Visit the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank House.
- The city is bike-friendly and easy to walk around.
Bonus tip:
Amsterdam is compact, so you can see a lot without traveling far. It’s also easy to take day trips to nearby places like Haarlem or The Hague.
4. Rome, Italy
Why people love it:
- You can visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Vatican City.
- Italian food is amazing — don’t miss the pizza, pasta, and gelato.
- The old city is walkable, and you’ll find historic buildings on almost every street.
Bonus tip:
Try to stay near the city center so you can walk to most major attractions.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
What to expect:
- The city looks like it came from a storybook, with castles and cobblestone streets.
- It’s more affordable than many Western European cities.
- Don’t miss the Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge.
Bonus tip:
Prague’s compact layout means you can explore most of the city on foot in just a few days.
6. Vienna, Austria
Highlights include:
- Historic palaces, opera houses, and museums.
- Try famous treats like schnitzel and sachertorte (a type of chocolate cake).
- The city is very clean, safe, and organized.
Bonus tip:
Vienna works well with trips to Prague and Budapest. Trains between these cities are fast and affordable.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Reasons to visit:
- See Gaudí’s colorful buildings, like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
- Enjoy sunny beaches and Mediterranean weather.
- Try tapas, paella, and churros with chocolate.
Bonus tip:
Barcelona is great if you want a mix of city life and beach time. Many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
8. Budapest, Hungary
Why it’s a hidden gem:
- Relax in one of the city’s famous thermal baths.
- See the Parliament Building and Fisherman’s Bastion.
- It’s one of the most affordable cities in Europe.
Bonus tip:
Budapest is made up of two parts (Buda and Pest) divided by the Danube River. Each side offers something different and worth seeing.
Easy Itineraries for First-Time Travelers
If you want to visit more than one city, these sample itineraries can help. They include cities that are close together, with simple travel routes.
1. Classic Western Europe
Cities: London – Paris – Amsterdam
- Great for first-time travelers
- Easy train rides between cities
- Works well for a 10 to 14-day trip
2. Central Europe Explorer
Cities: Prague – Vienna – Budapest
- Budget-friendly and full of history
- All three cities are connected by short train rides
- Ideal for 7 to 10 days
3. Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam
Cities: Paris – Brussels – Amsterdam
- All cities are close together
- A mix of French, Belgian, and Dutch culture
- Great for travelers who want variety in one trip
Smart Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
A few simple tips can help your first trip to Europe go smoothly:
- Start in big cities. These places have the most resources for visitors.
- Pack light. You’ll move around a lot, so bring only what you need.
- Use trains. Europe’s trains are fast, clean, and easy to use.
- Learn a few local words. Basic phrases like “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” go a long way.
- Give yourself time. Don’t plan too many things each day. Leave space for wandering and relaxing.
Common Questions About Your First European Trip
Is it safe to visit Europe?
Yes, most popular cities are very safe. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re from the U.S., you can stay in many European countries for up to 90 days without a visa. Always double-check before you go.
What’s the best season to go?
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are best. The weather is nice and the crowds are smaller.
Should I book tours or explore on my own?
A mix of both works well. Book tours for big landmarks, but leave time for exploring on your own.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Go?
If you’re still wondering, “Where should I go on my first trip to Europe?”, choose cities that match your interests. Love art and food? Try Paris or Rome. Want castles and charm? Head to Prague or Vienna. Looking for fun and sun? Barcelona is a great pick.
You can even combine a few cities into one trip. Many first-time travelers enjoy combos like London–Paris–Amsterdam or Prague–Vienna–Budapest. No matter which route you choose, your first European trip is sure to be unforgettable.
Let Explore Effortlessly Plan Your First Trip to Europe
Planning your first European vacation doesn’t have to be hard. At Explore Effortlessly, we make it easy. Our travel experts will create a full plan just for you (flights, hotels, daily activities, and more), so you can focus on enjoying the trip, not stressing about the details.
We’ve helped travelers experience Europe’s best cities with:
- Personalized day-by-day itineraries
- Hand-picked hotels and restaurants
- VIP access to tours and activities
- Train tickets and airport transfers
- Full support before and during your trip
Don’t waste hours trying to figure it out alone. Let us help you choose the perfect cities, build the best route, and plan a trip you’ll never forget.
Ready to explore Europe the easy way? Contact us today and let’s start planning your first European adventure.