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Europe has no shortage of great cities, but these are the best of the best according to the 2026 World's Best Awards.
There are between 46 and 51 nations in Europe, depending on who you ask, each with its own flavor, style, and culture. It's a lot to explore, but if you need a place to start, your fellow Travel + Leisure readers have some thoughts.
Each year, T+L asks readers to vote on their favorite places, including their go-to European cities that they never miss. In 2026, the top 15 destinations span 10 countries stretching from the cobblestoned squares of Central Europe to the volcanic shores of the Atlantic. And each one on this list rewards the most curious travelers among us with a hidden trattoria, a baroque church tucked down a side street, or a neighborhood that hasn't changed in a hundred years. Some cities on this year's list are expected favorites, while other newcomers will surprise you. But all of them made our readers feel exactly the way you hope a great city break will: like you've discovered something that feels entirely your own.
Here are all 15 of the best cities in Europe, according to the 2026 World's Best Awards, that are worth every bit of the hype.
https://www.travelandleisure.com/worlds-best-awards-top-100-hotels-in-the-world
1. Florence, Italy
Florence is an easy place to fall madly, deeply, in love with. It's compact enough to walk end to end, yet so dense with art, architecture, and sheer Italian charm. Though a week here barely scratches the surface. The Uffizi Gallery alone could take an entire day, where you can gaze upon masterpieces like Botticelli's “Birth of Venus,” Michelangelo's “Doni Tondo,” and a Raphael around every corner. More magic can be found on the tiny streets weaving through Florence. Grab a seat at Piazza della Signoria with a scoop of gelato before climbing Giotto's Bell Tower for that iconic view of Brunelleschi's dome. Cross the Ponte Vecchio at golden hour. Finally, visit the Mercato Centrale for lunch, where you can dig into local delights like lampredotto, pecorino, and fresh pasta made the Tuscan way. It's simply a masterpiece come to life.
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is nicknamed the "City of a Hundred Spires" for good reason. It's one of those rare European capitals that preserved its medieval bones so well that a trip here feels like traveling back in time. But don't worry, it's built a vibrant modern city in between those charming old buildings, too. The best way to take it all in is with a walk on the Charles Bridge at sunrise, followed by a visit to the Prague Castle and the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, which has a stunning stained-glass window created by Alphonse Mucha. Of course, you can't skip either the food or the beer scene here. Enjoy the national dish, vepřo-knedlo-zelo, a plate piled high with slow-roasted pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut, before settling in for the night.
3. Salzburg, Austria
Most travelers may be familiar with Salzburg via either Mozart or "The Sound of Music," but this enchanting city still manages to exceed expectations. The Old Town is one of Europe's best-preserved Baroque centers, with the Hohensalzburg Fortress hovering above and the Alps serving as a dramatic backdrop. Naturally, you can't skip the classical concerts held in Mirabell Palace's Marble Hall. Then, take a bit of time to slow down on a stroll along the Salzach River.
4. Krakow, Poland
Krakow's medieval market square is one of the largest in Europe. It's flanked by cafes, making it easy to pop in for a coffee or bite as you explore its sites like St. Mary's Basilica, known for its trumpeter that still marks the hour with music from above. Another must-see viewpoint is from Wawel Royal Castle complex, which overlooks the Vistula River. And once again, the food scene is divine in this city, with Polish delights like pierogi, zurek, and kielbasa available just about everywhere.
5. Porto, Portugal
Porto may be Portugal's second city, but it's won over the hearts of T+L readers in 2026. The city, which sits above the Douro River, is packed with terracotta-topped buildings and hand-painted azulejo (tiles) just about everywhere. The São Bento train station alone is covered in more than 20,000 tiles depicting Portuguese history. After looking at each tile, walk along the Ribeira waterfront, then cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia for a glass of port wine in any of its ancient warehouses. And don't leave without trying the city's over-the-top sandwich, the francesinha, which comes packed with so much meat and cheese you'll certainly need a to-go container for leftovers.
6. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana was once one of Europe's best-kept secrets, but now it seems word is getting out. Since cars are banned from the city center, the Slovenian capital is delightfully walkable, making it easy to explore along the Ljubljanica River, past outdoor cafes, Baroque facades, and across bridges. The most famous river crossing here is the Dragon Bridge, thanks to its four bronze dragons, which are worth a closer look. Then, take the city's funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for a fantastic view.
7. Rome, Italy
Rome is as classic a vacation getaway as they come, and for good reason. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon are all landmarks of human history and must be seen in person at least once. However, Rome's greatness goes far beyond its major monuments, as it arguably serves the best food in the world. Come fill your belly with cacio e pepe, carbonara, and enough pizza to fill your soul. Then, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and wish for a return visit soon.
8. Funchal, Portugal
T+L readers want everyone to know that there's more to love in Portugal than the mainland. Case in point, Funchal, a city perched on the hillside of the island of Madeira. Here, you'll find more of the country's famed rooftops and tiles, along with more of its well-known hills. Only this time, you can take the fun way down on its traditional wicker sleds steered by carreiros, who will let you hoot and holler the entire way. It's an ideal city for those looking for easy access to nature, as it's surrounded by some of Europe's most dramatic hiking trails, making it easy to have two kinds of trips in one.
9. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges has its fair share of Gothic spires and cobblestone streets, just like a few other cities on this list, but it comes with a bonus: access to some of the best chocolate shops on Earth. Between bites of those famous Belgian chocolates, travelers can head to the Belfry in the Markt square, which has been ringing the quarter-hour since the 13th century—those willing to hike its stairs will be rewarded with panoramic views. For those looking for a bit of culture, the Groeningemuseum houses a world-class collection of Flemish Primitive art, and for those looking to quench their thirst, the Belgian beer scene is exceptional, with fantastic pints as plentiful as the chocolates.
10. Seville, Spain
You can view some of Europe's best architecture at Seville’s Alcazar, a royal palace built over centuries by Moorish and Christian rulers that's filled with fantastic details that’ll keep you busy for hours. The cathedral next door offers its own opportunities for delightful sightseeing, while the Barrio de Santa Cruz area is a labyrinth of orange-tree-lined plazas worth getting lost in. The ideal way to spend an evening in Seville is with a Flamenco show, the cultural heartbeat of the city. Just be prepared to eat on the later side here, as 5 p.m. reservations would be considered more of a late lunch.
11. Vienna, Austria
The coffee house culture, the UNESCO-recognized sausages, and the slower rhythm of daily life are just a few of the things that charm travelers who come to Vienna. Take a beat and slow down at the Kunsthistorisches Museum, which is stacked with ancient artifacts that span five millennia, explore the Schönbrunn Palace to get a taste of Austrian tradition, and see the Vienna State Opera to see why a visit to this city is unmatched.
12. Lisbon, Portugal
As a local in Lisbon, I can attest to why this city makes so many best-of lists. The historic trams that wind through historic neighborhoods like Alfama are picture-perfect. The waterfront, punctuated by the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, shows the grandeur of Portugal's Age of Exploration. And Fado, Portugal's soulful genre of music, spills out of restaurant windows, beckoning people inside for a bica (a small coffee) or a bite to eat. And, of course, the Pasteis de Belém, warm from the oven and dusted with cinnamon, are a non-negotiable must-have.
13. Madrid, Spain
Madrid is a big city, with more than 3.5 million residents spread across more than 230 square miles, so it's a lot of city to explore. But one should always see the classics, including the Prado Museum and El Grec Museum, both of which could justify a trip to Spain by themselves. Between museums, travelers can explore its famed Parque de El Retiro, then dig into its serious tapas culture that's ideal for snackers. And here, every glass of wine comes with pinchos, more tiny snacks that you'll dream about long after you've gone home.
14. Siena, Italy
Siena is one of the smaller cities on this list, making it a perfect place for those who want a little city energy without feeling overwhelmed. Its shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, home to the famous Palio horse race each summer, is perhaps one of the most beautiful public spaces in Europe. The city's Duomo is extraordinary, with its striped marble and a tiled floor so elaborate it will make you want to get down on your hands and knees to see it up close. The city's compact historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is perfect for a slow afternoon of exploration, and an ideal spot to pop into a cafe for a wine at the end of the day.
15. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is grand, a little melancholy, and dramatic all in one. It's another European destination anchored by Gothic architecture, and is perhaps best known for Buda Castle. For a flatter walk, head to the Pest neighborhood, where you can check out the neo-Gothic Parliament building before heading to the city's famed thermal baths, Szechenyi and Gellert, where you can soak away your cares.
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