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The Absolute Best Cities In Europe To Explore in 2025
Europe in 2025? Groundbreaking, I know. But seriously, whether you’re planning your yearly escape from the routine (or your boss), or you’re just looking for an excuse to post aesthetically superior travel photos, there is no shortage of reasons to jet off to some of the continent’s most buzz-worthy spots.
And when a destination earns Tripadvisor’s “Best of the Best” title, that’s not just bragging rights – it’s a travel itinerary waiting to happen.
Which cities made the cut this year? Grab your carry-on (or at least pretend to) as we explore the top four of Europe’s star destinations. And trust me, even your passport is getting FOMO reading this.
If you would like to see the other European destinations that made the cut, you can do so on Tripadvisor.
London, England: The OG Of Iconic
London- a city so fabulous that it casually boasts history, royalty, and some of the most confusing weather on Earth. It’s like the Real Housewives franchise…only with less drama and more Buckingham Palace.
Why It’s Worth The Trip
- Tower Of London Vs. Ravens
The Tower of London is a fortress, a former palace, and a past prison. But honestly, the real stars here? The ravens. Legend has it that if the ravens leave, the entire British monarchy will collapse. That’s quite the burden for a handful of birds, don’t you think?
- Harry Potter’s Playground
If you’re still wondering where your Hogwarts acceptance letter is, London offers plenty of consolation prizes. From Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station to the Warner Bros Studio Tour, there’s magic lurking behind every corner – not unlike the city’s inexplicably good pub food.
And before you ask, yes, the Queen’s Guards in those tall fuzzy hats are even more amusingly stoic in real life. Feel free to test their limits, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Sicily, Italy: The Island That Ate, Prayed, And Loved
Sicily is the Italian dream dialed up to eleven – it’s got sun-soaked beaches, mouthwatering food, and enough historical sites to make your high school history teacher weep with pride. It’s basically “Eat, Pray, Love,” but without Julia Roberts hogging all the cannoli.
Why It’s Worth The Trip
- Mount Etna’s Mood Swings
Did you know Sicily is home to one of Europe’s most active volcanoes? Mount Etna loves to erupt (like, a lot), but hey, it also grows amazing wine grapes in its volcanic soil. A little patch of danger makes that Pinot Grigio taste so much better.
- Godfather-Worthy Streets
Fans of “The Godfather” listen up. Many of the movie’s key scenes were filmed here, and walking through the villages feels exactly like being in a Mafia blockbuster. Just…don’t try to bribe anyone unless that’s a game you’re ready to play.
Paired with golden beaches and Sicilian tastemakers who treat pasta like an Olympic sport, this island is proof that heaven can, in fact, be found just south of the boot of Italy.
Paris, France: The City of Light (And Endless Selfies)
Sure, some say Paris is overrated and rude, but those people are objectively wrong. From the Eiffel Tower to croissants fresh out of the oven, the French capital is essentially a movie set for hopeless romantics.
The plot twist? You’re both the main character AND the tourist photographing their dessert.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
- The Louvre Is Kinda Enormous
You could spend weeks in the Louvre and still not see everything (though kudos to you if you manage to weave through all the selfie sticks at the Mona Lisa). With over 380,000 works of art, including the Venus de Milo, there’s no shortage of history to admire…or mispronounce while attempting French.
- Macarons And Marvelous Streets
Picture this – you’re walking along the Seine River, holding an overpriced macaron, pretending life is your own music video. Paris is nothing if not pure aesthetic goals. Oh, and fun fact? Paris has more than 37 bridges (and yes, every single one of them is weirdly picture-worthy).
Plus, Paris at night is downright magical. Because if sparkling street lamps and freshly made crepes can’t make you fall in love with life again, what will?
Rome, Italy: History’s Very Own Theme Park
Rome isn’t just a city – it’s an open-air museum with significantly better pizza. Between its ancient ruins, stunning piazzas, and espresso strong enough to power a rocket, this is the place where modern civilization flexes hard.
Why It’s Worth The Trip
- Colosseum Meets Time Machine
Standing before the Colosseum feels a little like spotting your favorite celebrity – you know it’s been there forever, but seeing it in real life hits differently. Oh, and gladiator games weren’t just dudes in skirts battling lions. They were athletes, influencers, and reality TV…80 C.E.-style.
- Trevi Fountain Dreams
Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and legend says you’ll return to Rome. Throw a second coin, and you’ll fall in love. Throw a third, and… well, maybe keep that one for gelato. With over 1.5 million euros in coins collected from the fountain annually (all donated to charity), Rome is literally proof that tossing money into a fountain can make the world a better place.
From charming street-side cafes where waiters will flirt with you (no matter how many languages you butcher) to ancient ruins hiding under modern-day streets, Rome proves there’s never been a better time to say “when in Rome.”
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