This year’s 15 most loved European cities (and a 30-second quiz to find your favorite)

Europe has always held a special place in the hearts of travelersa continent rich in history, culture and endless charm. But in a region full of incredible destinations, how can you pinpoint the cities that really captivate visitors? now? Here at Travel Off Path we look to the experts: you, our fellow travelers!

Every year, Travel + Leisure carries out its prestigious “The world’s best prices“, polling thousands of readers about their favorite cities, islands, hotels and more. The results are in for 2025 and it’s clear that while the world may be warming, travelers are still flocking to the warm, vibrant embrace of Southern Europe. Mid-sized cities with Mediterranean flair and unmistakable character reign supreme.

But with 15 incredible cities topping the list, how do you choose your perfect European adventure? That’s where we come in! We’ve distilled the essence of these beloved destinations into a quick, interactive quiz designed to suit your travel style European city you will fall in love with.

What makes these cities so popular?

What do Florence, Seville and Istanbul have in common besides their high scores? According to readers, it often passes charm, walkabilityand a manageable pace.

Many voters praised mid-sized cities for being a “memorable experiencewithout the overwhelming hustle and bustle of a huge metropolis. These are places where you can truly “lose yourself in the culture, the food and the sights” without feeling lost.

Foodof course plays a major role. From Granada’s “free tapas with every drink” to Lyon’s reputation as a culinary capital, these cities are a feast for the senses. History is also a huge draw, with cities like Istanbul seamlessly combining Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences, and Rome offering layers of ancient wonders around every corner.

The 15 most loved European cities in 2025

Here’s the full list of cities Travel + Leisure readers can’t get enough of this year:

1. Florence, Italy: The undisputed champion. Travelers return ‘again and again’ for the Renaissance art, stunning architecture, friendly people, fantastic food and that unforgettable gelato. It consistently tops the lists of must-visit cities in Italy.
2. Seville, Spain: The romantic capital of Andalusia, home to flamenco, art, architecture and a ‘very fun and vibrant lifestyle’.
3. Grenada, Spain: Compact and pedestrian-friendly, famous for the beautiful Alhambra, quaint streets and a charming mix of cultures.
4. Istanbul, Turkey: A dynamic melting pot where Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history and culture come together.
5. Rome, Italy: The Eternal City, where ancient history, incredible food and vibrant squares create an ‘eternally popular’ experience.
6. Siena, Italy: A picturesque, walled Tuscan town, hailed as a ‘UNESCO village on a mountain’ where ‘romance is in the air’.
7. Porto, Portugal: Easy to navigate with friendly people, famous for its port wine and a beautiful riverside, it’s a favorite for wine lovers in Europe.
8. Madrid, Spain: Spain’s vibrant capital, offering “inexhaustible pleasures” from flamenco to flea markets, praised for its safety and excellent value.
9. Lisbon, Portugal: This capital dazzles with culture, architecture and art and has recently been recognized as Europe’s best culinary city destination.
10. Lyon, France: It is widely regarded as one of the greatest culinary capitals in the world and is a must-visit for foodies.
11. Prague, Czech Republic: Described as ‘fun and cheerful’, with fascinating history, stunning architecture and a fascinating Jewish quarter.
12. Salzburg, Austria: The birthplace of Mozart and setting for ‘The Sound of Music’, with a beautiful mountain backdrop and historic charm.
13. Cordoba, Spain: A city rich in Roman, Islamic and Christian history, where cultures have left their indelible mark on the architecture and cuisine.
14. Athens, Greece: An ancient and historically important city with archaeological sites everywhere, balanced with a delicious food culture and friendly people.
15. Aix-en-Provence, France: A small but mighty town on the Côte d’Azur, known for its walkable historic centre, lively markets and artistic heritage.

Ready to discover Your European city?

With such a varied and fascinating list, the only question that remains is where to call You? Are you drawn to the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence, the flamenco rhythms of Seville or the ancient wonders of Athens?

Our brand new quiz is designed to help you sort through the options. In just 30 seconds you will be asked about your ideal city size, what you would like to focus on (food, art, history or atmosphere) and which regional atmosphere appeals to you most.

Stop dreaming and start planning your perfect European adventure. Take our quiz below and discover your next most loved city!