15 Best Cities to Visit in Europe in 2024, According to T+L Readers

For centuries, travelers have gravitated to the great cities of Europe — and time has shown that the attractions of the past aren’t all too different from the attractions of the present. Food, art, architecture, nightlife, shopping, parks, style, and the chance to people-watch: our readers continue to call out the pleasures that these cities and capitals hold.

How Voting Works

Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey. A total of more than 700,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Sights/landmarks
• Culture
• Food
• Friendliness
• Shopping
• Value

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

What Readers Loved

For many readers, the Mediterranean will always be magic, so it’s no surprise that a whopping six cities on this year’s list are in Spain, four more than last year — good to see you, Marbella (No. 4) and Granada (No. 13). Last year, Portugal was represented by Porto and Lisbon; this year, Funchal has vaulted to the number two slot. And while Istanbul (No. 5) has been booted from the top slot by Florence, Turkey nevertheless has had a good year, seeing Bodrum jump onto the list at No. 15.

While climate change has made summers in Southern Europe hotter than ever, readers are loath to give up their affection for the warmer parts of the continent. Edinburgh, which sits as it did last year at no. 12, is the sole European city in our top 15 north of the Alps. Sorry, Paris and London — there’s always next year.

The Full List

1. Florence, Italy

Yes, it’s crowded, and yes, the ticket lines are long (book ahead), and yes, in summer it can be as hot as blazes. And yet there’s a reason our readers voted the Tuscan capital as the best city in Europe. “Florence is amazing,” writes one voter, “rich in history and definitely a place for romance. The food is delightful and the people are the salt of the earth.” From Michaelangelo masterpieces to Harry’s Bar, the Oltrarno neighborhood to intimate neighborhood restaurants, Florence has something for everyone.

Reader Score: 90.55

2. Funchal, Portugal

Is it the cobblestone streets, the ocean views, the overflowing fruit stalls at the open-air markets that attract our readers? Sure, all of the above. But blame it on the wine — the island of Maderia’s eponymous beverage can be found in wineries and tasting rooms throughout the city.

Reader Score: 89.82

3. San Sebastian, Spain

Overlooking the sheltered La Concha Beach, this small Basque city beguiles with its buzzing urban beach and narrow streets lined with historic architecture. And don’t miss those pintxos: “It’s one of the most beautiful cities with the most unreal food,” writes one reader. “And for some reason it’s ridiculously affordable.”

Reader Score: 89.66

4. Marbella, Spain

“Untouched by time,” one reader describes this sunny beach town on the Costa del Sol. But while Marbella’s Old Town offers whitewashed buildings and flower-festooned balconies right out of central casting, the shoreline promises modern-day resorts and beaches that are a paradise for sun worshippers.

Reader Score: 89.57

5. Istanbul, Turkey

Last year, Florence was bested from its position atop this list by Istanbul; this year, Florence has battled its way back to the top. No matter: readers continue to fall in love with this enchanting Turkish city. “In my opinion, Istanbul is the most important city in the world,” writes one reader. “It is number one with its history, culture, location, and beauty.”

Reader Score: 89.15

6. Porto, Portugal

This much-loved city, almost two hours’ drive from the Douro Valley wine region, is praised by readers for its walkable downtown, romantic cafes, and robust nightlife. “Add in great food, wine, and port,” writes one reader, “and what is not to love?”

Reader Score: 88.85

7. Rome, Italy

“The Eternal City never ceases to be alluring,” writes one reader, “from its exquisite architecture and historic sites to its dining, shopping, and simply strolling its charming streets and piazzas.” With ancient history on every corner, the city miraculously straddles eras, feeling both timeless and of the moment. “Every day there was a new adventure,” says one voter.

Reader Score: 88.44

8. Barcelona, Spain

The Catalan capital has become something of a poster child for overtourism, but that doesn’t get in the way of our readers’ appreciation. Writes one voter: “Our recent visit to Barcelona was nothing short of a love affair with a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and a vibrant contemporary spirit. One of the highlights was undoubtedly the architectural masterpiece that is Gaudí’s Sagrada Família. Standing in the shadow of its towering spires, we were awestruck by the sheer ingenuity and artistic brilliance that went into its creation.”

Reader Score: 87.94

9. Madrid, Spain

“If the world was a school,” one reader writes, “Madrid is the cool kid.” According to another, “The love for life runs in [the Madrileños] blood and it is absolutely contagious.” Readers single out the world-class museums, the tranquil parks and gardens, and even the street art. Adds one contributor: “A flamenco show is a definite MUST.”

Reader Score: 87.46

10. Lisbon, Portugal

Sure, Rome has its hills — but the Portuguese capital’s gradations are nothing to sneeze at. More than a few readers commented on the workouts they had exploring the city. And yet, “Lisboa has stolen my heart,” as one reader exclaimed. “It’s a lovely, decadent city, untouched and remarkably romantic.”

Reader Score: 87.27

11. Seville, Spain

The capital of Andalusia wins plaudits from T+L readers for its “lively waterfront,” “delicious tapas,” and “beautiful architecture.” But Seville’s most enchanting aspect was its warm, engaging residents: “Friendly and passionate people who love their city.” We loved the city because everyone was so willing to let us be a part of their day-to-day lives,” writes one traveler. “Even though I don’t speak Spanish fluently, many were patient and excited by my effort to speak in their native tongue.”

Reader Score: 87.23

12. Edinburgh, Scotland

“Spirited and elegant,” one reader describes the Scottish capital; its handsome architecture sits in harmony with its natural surroundings.” According to another, “the food is very good (except haggis) and the whiskies even better.”

Reader Score: 87.11

13. Granada, Spain

Almost all of the fans of this city commented on the Alhambra, the sprawling palace that is one of the world’s most transcendent examples of Islamic architecture. But Granada is more than its most famous landmark. “It’s filled with special stores and cafes,” writes one voter. “Don’t miss the outdoor trolley.” Others praise the “cozy restaurants,” “beautiful streets,” and “modern nightlife.”

Reader Score: 87.05

14. Siena, Italy

Looking to escape the crowds of Florence? This walled Tuscan city, a short drive away, has all of the charm — and equally good gelato. “Siena was absolutely magical for us!” writes one reader. “It has beautiful churches, piazzas, and medieval streets. We took a fun wine course and stayed at small, delicious, family-owned taverns.”

Reader Score: 86.75

15. Bodrum, Turkey

This ancient city offers pleasures both past and present, from archaeological sites to a vibrant nightlife scene. “The town is pretty, with bougainvillea-covered buildings and cordial locals,” one reader writes; “greatest resort in the Aegean, hands down,” posits another.

Reader Score: 86.74