This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we will receive a small commission at no addition cost to you. Please read our disclaimer for more information.
It’s easy to be dazzled by the capital cities of Europe. Whether you’re weaving your way through the bustling streets of central London, or relaxing with a coffee at an outside table in a Parisian cafe, it’s difficult not to fall in love with Europe’s biggest cities.
While saying that, it’s also important not to be too dazzled by the bright lights of these cities, since it could mean missing out on the charms of the less famous but still fascinating cities that lie beyond. The people, the buildings, the food and the scenery in regional cities are often quite distinct, and add to the fun.
Here, then, is our concise guide to some of the finest towns in Europe that may not be their nation’s first city, but deserve a place on the itinerary as well as in the heart.
Avignon, France
With well under half a million inhabitants, Avignon may not match the likes of Lyon and Marseille for size. But one thing is for sure – Avignon is a city so beautiful that when you go exploring it, you often feel like you’re in a movie. Encircled by ramparts, the city has a very historical feel – but it’s also got a modern buzz too. Visit during the city’s annual arts festival, and it’s the perfect time to soak up some culture as well as sunshine! Food note: try steak tartare in Avignon. It’s extremely zingy and refreshing – perfect hot weather eating!
Düsseldorf
It may not boast a landmark quite as dramatic as Cologne Cathedral, with its vertiginous spires, but Düsseldorf has plenty to offer. You can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the city’s beautiful promenade by the Rhine (which always seems wider than you expect, cutting the city in two and adding to its visual aspect). Or you can take in some art at the city’s galleries, which are genuinely world-class and very much the kind of thing that Düsseldorf seems to offer without making a big fuss.
If a city could embody the term ‘quiet confidence’ then this would be it! Food note: lots of great cakes (Kuchen) and chocolate. Obviously it’s good to keep cake consumption low for your weight’s sake – but apparently chocolate can be good for you! Superb news for regular travellers to Germany, Switzerland and other choc-heavy nations…
Manchester, United Kingdom
England’s north and south may often appear to be culturally quite distinct, but in fact Manchester is only a couple of hours away from London on the train, so geographically the distance isn’t that big. So if you’re in England, put Manchester on your list. What you’ll find in Manchester – loads and loads of top-end city centre shopping in classy Spinningfields. There’s also loads of great shopping just a short bus ride from the city centre at the massive Trafford Centre. An almost endless list of great places to eat. And on top of that, some very fine culture and history too. Food note: head to Chinatown for a great array of Chinese restaurants or the famous Curry Mile for Indian cuisine.
Cork
It’s understandable that travellers with limited time might only stop off at Dublin. After all, Ireland’s capital is famed worldwide for its easygoing charm and beautiful Georgian architecture. But it would be a real shame to miss out on the wonderful city of Cork.
The city’s stunning waterfront really marks Cork out as an exceptionally striking place visually, while its proliferation of great bars and restaurants mean you can always find a place to relax and just soak up the vibe of the city. Cork is around two and a half hours on the train from Dublin – so if you’re prepared to get up early enough, it’s easily do-able as a day trip. Plus there’s the bonus of seeing rolling vistas of Ireland’s countryside from the train. Food note: seafood is the way to go in Cork. Whether it’s fish and chips or a platter including scallops and other fruits of the sea, you’re guaranteed a wide, fresh choice of delicious treats.
There are of course hundreds of towns and cities to choose from in Europe – and the list above is really just a tiny starter selection. So whether you visited Kópavogur (Iceland) and fell in love with it, or you found Kraków to be heaven on Earth, please share your city experiences with us in the comments. They don’t have to be European cities, either – we’re interested in all your experiences.
About the author: Emily runs her own travel and fitness blog. When she’s not travelling the world, she’s in her home country of Scotland dreaming up her next big trip.
