European Cities to Visit (Wish-List #1)

Traveling Europe has been a passion of mine for the past four years, and even though I’ve visited many places, there are still many more European cities that I’m dying to see!

Here is the start of my very long wish-list of destinations:

Lisbon, Portugal

I’ve heard great things about Lisbon. From the relaxed culture, to the tasty traditional cuisine to the rich history– this is the next number one “must see” European cities on my list. I love the idea of strolling through old city streets, exploring antique, intricate architectural structures, stopping for glasses of local wines and especially warm weather!

Plus, just outside of Lisbon is Sintra, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape full of ancient Roman architecture such as beautiful old palaces, castles and mansions.

Sicily, Italy

I realized that Sicily is an island, rather than a specific city, but I can’t just pick one place to visit there! Growing up watching the Golden Girls, Sophia’s hometown of Palermo, Sicily has long been on my radar. (But, seriously). I love the idea that Sicily has so much to offer visitors- beautiful scenery, tons of natural sites to explore, city-life, fresh local seafood with a touch of Mediterranean and Arabic flair, and ancient ruins and architecture, such as the Temple of Concordia, dating back to 430 BC in the province of Agrigento in Sicily. It is considered one of the best preserved among the Doric temples of the Greek world.

I love this photo from the city of Cefalù!

Plus, Sicily is known for having some seriously amazing beaches like the Mondello, located just a kilometer from Palermo, what could be better?

Copenhagen, Denmark

I’ll have to save up for this trip, as Copenhagen is one of the most expensive European cities to visit, but either way, I’m sure it’s worth it! I’ve also heard great things about Copenhagen and since it’s so close to where I’m living now in Hamburg, it would be a waste not to go! With picturesque pedestrian promenades along the water, great sustainability infrastructure (what I’m currently studying) and tons of cultural activities I have to keep it high on the list!

Venice, Italy

Albeit one of the most touristy European cities, and from what I’ve heard, very expensive, the uniqueness and romance of Venice has always been a draw for me. I love cities on water like Amsterdam, Annecy and even Hamburg, so I can only imagine how magical Venice will be! I would love to be able to visit there during Carnival!

San Sebastián, Spain

Like Lisbon, I’ve only heard great things about San Sebastián. I visited the northern Spain region a few years ago, but never made it to this coastal city and it’s been bugging me ever since. San Sebastián is renowned for gastronomy, especially the pitxchos, beautiful beaches and great nightlife, all with a cool, relaxed beach vibe. Perhaps I could even learn how to surf here?

Featured image from Miguel Virkkunen Carvalho via Flickr.