Barcelona, Spain
Where else can you stroll a world-famous boulevard in the morning and then sunbathe on a Mediterranean beach by the afternoon? Barcelona is a dream for Americans seeking both city and beach. And then add the Spanish cuisine on top of that, and the familiar excitement of soccer – or should we say, fútbol – fervor. It’s no surprise that in 2022, it was revealed that Spain is the second most popular destination for US nationals looking to move.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Often dubbed as the Venice of the North, water-based Amsterdam captures the hearts of many with its charming canals and houseboats. For an American looking for European charm, hopping on a bicycle or taking a canal cruise here is like stepping into a postcard. Lax rules, lively coffee shop culture, and rich history such as the Anne Frank House make it a must-visit.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is seen as a city of resilience, history, and a vibrant counter-culture. Its iconic Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall remain as remnants of its tumultuous past, while neighborhoods like Kreuzberg showcase street art, and underground clubs such as the world famous Berghain. For Americans, it’s a city that combines history with a new wave of creativity and innovation.
London, UK
London is a popular spot for Americans – with its iconic landmarks like the Tower Bridge, the British Museum, and the London Eye. Whether exploring the historical corridors of Westminster or shopping at the bustling streets of Oxford, London offers a pretty big range of experiences. The royal guards, double-decker buses, and lively pubs serve as familiar postcard images for many.
Paris, France
Paris is known worldwide as the city of love, with its romantic bridges, riverside cafes, and the famous Eiffel Tower. Americans often view this French city as the epicenter of romance – think of the American depiction of this city in the TV show Emily in Paris to get an idea. Does the show depict the city through rose-tinted glasses, or is it really a place where dreams are made?
Prague, Czech Republic
Walking through Prague feels like stepping into a fairy-tale. The skyline is dotted with Gothic style spires, and the Charles Bridge at sunset is a sight to behold. Americans tend to flock here to experience a city full of history where every cobblestone seems to whisper tales of knights and princesses. In fact, in 2022, Americans lead the way, with more visitors from the United States than any other country.
Minsk, Belarus
Minsk might ring a bell for Friends fans remembering Chandler’s fake relocation, yet the city is more than a mere reference on a TV show. It’s a beautiful city made up of Soviet architecture with great nightlife and an unexpected vibrancy. Minsk invites Americans to look beyond the Friends reference and discover the city – one that not only survived but reinvented itself.
Rome, Italy
Americans tend to be lured by the city’s promises of its world famous pizzas, world wonders like the Colosseum, and romantic Vespa rides. Yet, the overwhelming bustle, at times unmanageable tourism, and summer heatwaves often appear in people’s travel anecdotes. The city is represented in Eat, Pray, Love in a magical light – does it live up to the hype?
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is known for its cozy pubs, a rich literary tradition, and the friendliest of faces. Many Americans actually find their roots tracing back to this emerald isle, making Dublin an intriguing city to visit. It’s a destination where stories flow as freely as the drinks, and visitors often seek to embrace the ‘craic’ – the Irish term for fun and enjoyment – and Dublin hardly disappoints.
Vienna, Austria
Grand palaces, grand operas, and grand cafes – for Americans, visiting the city of Vienna can feel like stepping into a fairytale. Famous for being the birthplace of Mozart and the waltz, it offers a rich combination of history and culture. The Schönbrunn Palace and the Danube set a backdrop for Viennese coffeehouses, where time seems to stand still. Some visitors have even backed the city as everything you could ask from a European capital.
Lisbon, Portugal
Sun-kissed cobblestones, vintage trams, and panoramic views – Lisbon is a beautiful mix of old and new for the American traveler. Famed for its pastel de natas and Fado music, the city’s charm lies in its relaxed vibe and picturesque neighborhoods. The steep ascents are often paralleled with the city of San Francisco, and in the past few years, Lisbon has started to also mirror the city’s tourist numbers.
Budapest, Hungary
Many have watched the film The Grand Budapest Hotel and wondered about its muse. Divided by the river Danube, Budapest’s two parts, Buda and Pest, come together to form what some describe as the Paris of the East. With its thermal baths, majestic Parliament, and rich Magyar tradition, it’s a city of relaxation and fun.
Athens, Greece
For many Americans, Athens summons images of civilizations of the ancient world. Nestled between the Aegean sea and the mountains, the city is reminiscent of gods, myths, and legend. Stepping into the city can feel like stepping back in time. Yet, Athens isn’t just a historical artifact – its full of nightlife, rooftop terraces, and sun-drenched islands nearby.
Madrid, Spain
A city where the past and present collide in a beautiful chaos, Madrid is known for its sun-soaked plazas, rich art, and night-time buzz. Life here is lived loudly and proudly – from Flamenco shows to football games. And the food – paella to churros – adds another reason to want to visit. Memories of Madrid are often full of images of markets, architecture, and a warmth that stays long after leaving.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is made up of cobblestone streets, vintage shops, and a dram of Scottish spirit. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe sends the city into cultural fever, while the beautiful Highlands are just a stone’s throw away. Here, the sound of bagpipes, the comfort of a hearty meal, and the friendliness of locals (loved by Americans) make for a heart-warming visit.
Florence, Italy
Art, culture, and gastronomy combine seamlessly in the charming city of Florence. Its rich Renaissance history captivates many American travelers. Think of sipping a beautiful Chianti while overlooking the Tuscan hills, or viewing masterpieces from the likes of Michelangelo and Da Vinci, and that’ll give you a good idea of the Italian escape so many dream of.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The appeal of hygge (cozy contentment) often brings Americans to the canals and bike-friendly streets of Copenhagen. Its blend of modernist and historic architecture, full of vibrant bursts of color. A day in Copenhagen often involves lots of walking or cycling, beautiful Scandinavian design, hearty smørrebrød, and friendly locals – that about captures the essence of this Danish city.
Reykjavik, Iceland
A beautiful blend of nature and urbanity, Reykjavik is a city that charms, with its quirky buildings and vast seascape. Visitors from the States often find themselves under the spell of its landscapes, hot springs, and a culture deeply rooted in myths and legends. With the Northern Lights overhead, this small yet energetic city offers a peaceful yet adventurous escape from the regular.
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki is another city that is a harbour of tranquility and design in the North. American travellers find a peaceful respite in its clean streets, and a design district that’s a playground for the aesthetically inclined. With surrounding islands and sea, and the warm, inviting glow of cosy cafés and bars, Helsinki embodies Finnish ‘sisu’ with a gentle, inviting embrace.
Geneva, Switzerland
Nestled between the Alps and Jura mountains, Geneva is a city where luxury meets a rich diplomatic history. It’s a destination where tourists might explore international quarters, treat themselves to Swiss watches, chocolates, and possibly, a fondue beside the lake. For many visitors from the States, it’s a great first stop to fly in to and indulge, before heading up into the mountains for a spot of skiing.
Lyon, France
Known as the culinary capital of France, Lyon lures American foodies into a world of gastronomic delight, offering dining that is hard to match – ranging from bustling local restaurants to Michelin-starred ones. The city is full of Renaissance architecture, making it an indulgent experience for both the palate and the soul.
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
A combination of beautiful landscapes and grand castles – Luxembourg City provides a backdrop that seems like it has been taken right out of a storybook. Americans are often charmed by the blend of multilingualism and multiculturalism, which feels both distinctly European but also uniquely Luxembourgish.
Riga, Latvia
Riga is a less well known city than some others on the list, but is one that charms those who do visit. In this city, travellers find themselves immersed in the history, exploring markets, or embarking on a vibrant nightlife that is full of energy, and just general joy. From hearty Latvian stews to soulful folk music, Riga is like a warm hug in the chill of the Baltic.
Istanbul, Turkey
Straddling two continents, Istanbul is a fabulous mixture of cultures, flavors, and architectures. For many Americans, a wander through its bazaars or a ferry ride along the Bosporus is a truly memorable experience. In this city, where east meets west, the patterns of the Blue Mosque, smells of simmering kebabs, and sounds of spirited bartering are memories that are hard to forget.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm offers a blend of modernity and tradition – from wandering the historic cobbles of Gamla Stan to immersing in the avant-garde fashion scenes, visitors are treated to a multidimensional Swedish journey. Americans often find the friendliness and humility of the locals particularly refreshing. The city’s vibrant urban life also unfurls under the captivating glow of the northern lights and the midnight sun.
Brussels, Belgium
Through the waffle-scented air and beneath the arcs of Art Nouveau architecture, Brussels is a beautiful city to journey through. It’s known for its remarkable Grand Place, velvety chocolate, and a comic strip culture that is allover its walls and streets. This Belgian capital serves up a fantastic brew of heritage and fun.
Munich, Germany
Munich is often visited by Americans for its fun traditions – think lively beer halls and the legendary Oktoberfest. But beyond the beer, lies a city of culture, greenery, and a rich history. Whether exploring museums or raising steins with locals, Munich extends a wilkommen that everyone can feel as they wander its streets.
Manchester, UK
Football, music, and industrial spirit – Manchester offers a uniquely British experience that has its own distinct flavor, and was named as Europeans’ favorite 2023 destination. Often referred to as the UK’s second capital, it offers a unique insight into the history of the industrial revolution and a famed music scene. Whether wandering the vibrant Northern Quarter or cheering in the historic Old Trafford, the spirit of Mancunians is contagious.
Venice, Italy
Venice is like poetry in aquatic form. For many, navigating through the beautiful canals and across its storied bridges is like drifting through a romantic painting. With the melodies of gondoliers songs echoing from ancient walls and the beauty of secret passageways and hidden food spots, Venice is high on the bucket list for many.
Zurich, Switzerland
In Zurich, there’s a unique blend of pristine nature and urban sophistication. It’s an affluent city – and it’s visible. From the well-preserved old town, high-end shopping streets, and plethora of museums. Whether it’s cruising on the Lake Zurich or exploring the cultural scene, Zurich offers a blend of relaxation and adventure amidst the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps.
Oslo, Norway
Known for its stunning fjords and vibrant city life, Oslo offers a blend of natural beauty and urban experiences. The city invites American travelers with its sleek Scandinavian design, a rich maritime history, and museums that celebrate everything from Viking ships to the works of artist Edvard Munch. A city where modern architecture meets medieval history under the Northern Lights, it’s a pretty cool destination in more ways than one.
Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw is a city that tells stories of rises and falls, of resilience and rebirth. With a past marked by war and rebellion, it is the epitome of proud restoration and a future-thinking mindset. Imagine wandering through the Royal Castle, walking along the Vistula River, or exploring the neon galleries. It’s definitely a city to add to the bucket list.
Milan, Italy
Many Americans picture Milan as a rich and fashion-forward city – and they wouldn’t be wrong. It’s a city where design rules and the aperitivo is an art form. The juxtaposition of historical architecture with contemporary building is a masterclass in combining old and new. Oh, and not to forget, the vibrant nightlife is pretty hard to beat.
Krakow, Poland
Another gem of Poland, Krakow is a city steeped in history. The Royal Wawel Castle overlooks a city of amazing architecture and a heavy history. This city is known to be full of scholars and artists, so it’s no surprise that it sparkles with cultural festivals and a lively café culture beneath its poignant, historic surface.
Seville, Spain
Seville has been booming in popularity the past few years, and for as good reason. Located on the east coast of Spain, it’s a sunny city full of tradition and modernity. With its impressive cathedral, beautiful plazas, and the amazing Alcázar, Seville should be on everyone’s lists.
Bucharest, Romania
Stepping into Bucharest, travelers are greeted by a city where contrasting eras collide in the very best way. It’s a charming city with welcoming locals – who have named American tourists as among the nicest. The city’s diverse architecture tells tales of royalty, communism, and a new era, while its café culture and artistic scene hint at a bright, bright future.
Sofia, Bulgaria
At the foot of Vitosha Mountain, Sofia is a city with layers of history. From the dome of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to the ruins of ancient Serdica, the city weaves together Thracian, Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet history. American visitors often find warmth in the welcoming smiles of locals and a comfort in hearty Bulgarian cuisine.
Valletta, Malta
Valletta is nestled on the tiny island of Malta in the Mediterranean. Tourists often find themselves wandering through its narrow streets, looking up at traditional Maltese balconies, and discovering a history of battles and romance. Whether exploring St. John’s Cathedral, eating amazing food, or sailing around the island, Valletta offers a minuscule yet mighty European escape
Zagreb, Croatia
Croatia has experienced an ascent as a notable European travel hub over the past decade, and it’s no wonder why. While its terracotta rooftops and cobbled streets provide a stunning backdrop, the energy of the city, seen in its markets, lively cafés, and vibrant street arts, combines its rich history with a youthful spirit.
Bruges, Belgium
Now this is a city that expertly balances elegance with its rich history. The canals that weave through the city and the medieval buildings show its opulent past as a trading city. Travelers often find themselves exploring the Belfort tower, savoring some rich Belgian chocolate, or navigating through the Markt.
