Best Small Cities in Europe to Visit

Have you been asking yourself what are the best small cities in Europe to visit? Look no further! This list is dedicated to those looking to have a city vacation without the hassle of a large city.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through those links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. You can read the full disclosure here.

Now that we’re coming out of the pandemic you may be ready to travel again. But are you ready to back to very large cities with crowded spaces and irrational people? The past few years we have seen a slew of erratic behaviour, crimes and even unprovoked physical assaults from stressed-out nasty people. I don’t know about you, but the human behaviour I have witnessed during this pandemic has really made me question my safety. Both at home and while travelling. For these reasons, I will avoid visiting large cities for the foreseeable future, even though I am very much still a city person and I prefer city vacations.

So what is the solution? Smaller European cities! The cities I mention on this list still provide you with a city vacation in that they’re walkable, have plenty of attractions and are easily reached by train, plane, and some even by ferry.

Here are the best small cities in Europe to visit:

Coimbra, Portugal

Situated on the Mondego river, Coimbra is a university town that is fairly quiet and laid-back when classes are not in session. As the former capital of Portugal, Coimbra is full of attractions for the traveler seeking culture, sightseeing and dining. Additionally, Coimbra can easily be reached by train from Lisbon in under 2 hours.

Some attractions include:

• The oldest university in Portugal which is also a World Heritage Site.
• Chapel of São Miguel which dates from the early 16th century.
• Pedro e Inês Bridge which is made up of two walkways that do not meet in the middle, but are joined together by a viewing platform. You can observe great views of the university from this bridge.
• Penedo da Saudade is a hilltop garden with views of the city and the Mondego River.
• The University’s Botanical Garden was founded with the intention to cultivate healing plants. Today it features a bamboo forest, exotic trees, eucalyptus, birds, squirrels, and more.
•  Portugal dos Pequenitos is an amusement park with miniature Portuguese buildings and landmarks.
• Conímbriga consists of well-preserved Roman ruins dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries!

Cascais, Portugal

Located on the coast of Portugal, Cascais is only one hour west of Lisbon or Sintra by train. Thanks to its close proximity to Portugal’s largest city, Cascais is the perfect destination for those who are used to large cities. If you miss the hustle and bustle, it’s just one quick train ride away. But since there are so many things to do in Cascais, chances are you’ll be fine with spending your whole vacation here.

Some attractions include:

• Amazing sandy beaches and promenades for walking.
• Get lost in the old town and explore cobblestone walkways and colourful buildings.
• Citadel de Cascais is a fortress from 15th to 17th century built to defend the coastline and the river Tagus.
• Boca do Inferno is a unique arch formation in the cliff, which opens to the Atlantic Ocean. During stormy weather you can witness large waves crashing against the cliffs. There is a viewing platform, but if the weather is very bad the platform may close.
• Castro Guimarães is an art museum and library with gorgeous grounds. The museum is located in a historic home with Portuguese influences, Arabic stonework, arches, and gardens.
• Cycle the ocean-front bike path on a free bike! You can rent a bike for free from the municipality.

Besalú, Spain

Just under 2 hours by bus from Barcelona lies the medieval town of Besalú. With around 2,500 inhabitants, Besalú is the perfect destination for those seeking calm and relaxation. Stroll around the cobbled streets and bridges as you take in the Romanesque, Gothic and medieval architectural influences. You can also drive to Besalú and leave the car on the south side of town, next to the tourist information office.

Some attractions include:

• Admiring the medieval bridge which is built over the river Fluvia. The bridge was built in Romanesque style and dates back to the 12th century.
• The church of Sant Pere is free to visit and it dates back to the 11th century!
• Visit the 12th century Jewish baths. Besalú has a strong Jewish heritage with Jews having settled here since the 9th century.
• The Hospital of Sant Julià is a 12th century hospital that was intended to serve as a resting place for travelling pilgrims.

Menton, France

A small and charming Mediterranean city near the border with Italy, Menton enjoys warm weather year round. Winters may be colder, but temperatures never dip bellow freezing. Menton can be easily reached by train from either Nice or Milan. It makes a perfect destination for those looking for sightseeing, relaxation, culture, dining, or shopping. Since most tourists overlook Menton, you can really get a sense of traditional customs and way of life.

Some attractions include:

• Walking around the Old Quarter and admiring the bright, pastel buildings, and centuries of history.
• Basilica Saint-Michel-Archange is a 17th century cathedral situated at the top of the Old Town. Nearby you’ll also find the Russian cemetery with lots of marble, statues, and amazing views of the city and harbour.
• Jean Cocteau Museum features more than 1,000 multi-media works by Cocteau.
• Le Val Rahmeh-Menton Garden was once a private property but today it is open to the public. It is a perfect attraction for those looking for tranquility and it features rare species such as Chinese yam, Japanese medlar, Santa Cruz water lily, and more.
• Citrus festival (Fête du Citron) is an annual event held in middle-late February. There are parades, figurines built out of citrus fruits, as well as events that require tickets. This is the busiest Menton gets so book your hotel in advance if you plan to attend.

Bastia, France

Situated on the east coast of Corsica facing Italy, Bastia is the island’s second largest city. It is often skipped by travellers, allowing you to have an authentic experience minus the crowds. Bastia can be reached by ferry from multiple French and Italian cities, as well as by plane.

Some attractions include:

• Place St. Nicolas is a public square with lots of shops, restaurants, cafés, and on Sundays there is a flea market.
• Vieux (Old) Port is located in the centre of the city and it makes a perfect place to stroll around with an ice cream in hand. Enjoy watching old men fishing or have a meal on the terrace at a restaurant.
• Citadel of Bastia was once the home of the governor, a prison, military building, and now it is open to the public.
• Take a sea trip to the small coves of Cap Corse.
• Terra Nova is Bastia’s citadel, built between the 15th and 17th centuries for the Genoese masters.
• Romieu Garden is a great place to go for walks, as well as admire great city views from the top of the stairs.

Bari, Italy

A beautiful port city with delicious cuisine and great beaches, Bari sits in the heel of the boot (southern Italy). Bari makes a great destination for anyone interested in dining, culture, history, nightlife, or sailing. Bari can be reached by ferry from Greece, Croatia, or Albania, by train from other Italian cities, or by plane from most of Europe.

Some attractions include:

• Basilica di San Nicola, one of the first Norman churches built in southern Italy and the place where you’ll find St Nicholas’ (Santa Claus’) remains.
• Piazza Mercantile is located in the heart of the town and makes a great place to meet a friend, grab a meal or do some shopping.
• Get lost in the Old Town for an authentic sightseeing experience.
• The Bari Castle is dating back to 1132. Originally built for defence, today it features archaeological exhibitions.
• Walk along the seafront promenade (Lungomare).

Messina, Italy

The third largest city on the island of Sicily, Messina is an important point of access to the rest of the island and mainland Italy. Messina is located in the north east of the island and is just a 30 minute ferry ride from Reggio Calabria on the mainland. As a result of its location, the city is known for its historical significance.

Some attractions include:

• Messina Cathedral is situated at on end of Piazza del Duomo and was originally built in 1100s by the Normans. It has since been reconstructed in its original form after damage from the 1908 earthquake and WWII bombing.
• The Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock puts on a show everyday at noon when the figurines begin to move, showing a scene from Messina’s past.
• Fontana di Orion is located in Piazza del Duomo in front of the Cathedral. The fountain was created by Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli, a student of Michelangelo and it commemorates the completion of Messina’s first aqueduct.
• Viale Italia is a panoramic road that begins west of the university. It runs around the city and provides fantastic views.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III is similar to the grand galleria of Milan. It features shops, cafés and restaurants.

Dinant, Belgium

Situated between the Meuse River and steep cliffs, Dinant does not lack the wow factor when it comes to views. Additionally, the city is also rich in history, making it a great destination for adventure, culture, and sightseeing enthusiasts. Dinant can be easily reached by train from Brussels in under 2 hours.

Some attractions include:

• Charles de Gaulle Bridge is the main bridge in town and offers incredible views of the city. The bridge was named after Charles de Gaulle who was shot in the leg during the battle of Dinant in 1914. Today the bridge is lined with saxophone statues to commemorate the inventor of the saxophone who was from Dinant.
• Maison Leffe is a museum, dedicated to beer. When you visit the museum you first have a tour to see how beer is made, then you get some samples to taste.
• Castle of Freÿr was built similarly to Versailles. The castle also features a well-maintained garden, which makes for a perfect place to have a stroll.
• Collégiale Notre Dame de Dinant is a 13th century Gothic cathedral situated on the riverbank right in front of the cliff.
• Citadelle de Dinant sits on top of the cliff and grants you 360° views of the entire town. To get up there you can climb the 400+ stairs or buy a ticket for the cablecar.
• Go hiking. Since the city is surrounded by forests, there are multiple hiking paths around the town.

Odense, Denmark

The largest city on the island of Funen, Odense feels like a picturesque town full of history and tradition. Small colourful homes, cobblestone streets, and not many tourists make Odense an ideal destination for those looking to have a relaxing Scandinavian experience. As the town of Hans Christian Andersen, multiple museums, shopping opportunities and natural parks, there is something for every type of traveller in Odense. Additionally, it’s incredibly easy to reach the city from Copenhagen. In around 1.5 hours by train, you’ll be transported to a land of fairytales.

Some attractions include:

• Hans Christian Andersen Museum opened in 2021 and is one of the largest museums in Denmark. The museum consists of both indoor interactive exhibits where fairytales come to life, as well as outdoor magical gardens.
• Munkemose Park is a large park located in the heart of the city. Here you can enjoy relaxing walks, take the children to the playground, rent a paddle boat, or admire the flora and fauna.
• Storms Pakhus is a food market located in an old industrial warehouse on the harbour. There are around 24 food stalls, 6 bars, and workshops.
• Sightseeing by bike. Odense has over 500km of cycling paths that are very safe since they’re well maintained and separated from car traffic. So feel free to rent a bike and get “lost” around the city.
• Have a picnic at King’s Garden. Or if you don’t like picnics, you can eat at the café located on the grounds.

Turku, Finland

As the oldest city and former capital of Finland, Turku dates back nearly 800 years! Sadly in 1827 the Great Fire of Turku destroyed most of the city. But you can still find some medieval elements that were spared. The city has been beautifully rebuilt since then. It is a great destination for relaxation, culture and history, shopping and sports. Turku can be reached by plane from many European cities or by ferry from Sweden.

Some attractions include:

• Stroll along the Aurajoki river. This is a place where the locals like to meet each other, so it makes for a great spot for people watching. In addition, there are numerous museums, restaurants, and cafés along the river.
• The “prison hill” at Kakolanmäki is where the worst criminals used to be locked up. Today the place has been converted into hotels, breweries, and restaurants. You can even book a stay in a former cell.
• Have a relaxing spa day on Ruissalo island.
• Go island hopping. Bring your bike and enjoy beautiful scenery, villages, and delicious meals at café. Bridges and ferries connect the islands.

Uppsala, Sweden

As a university town, Uppsala is a great destination for a quiet and relaxing summer vacation. The town is quite modern, but rich in history and tradition. In the 13th century, the city’s cathedral was destroyed in a fire, and a new Uppsala was founded on better land with lower elevation. Straight streets were used (instead of winding ones) and this is a characteristic to Uppsala. The city is 30 minutes to one hour away from Stockholm by train.

Some attractions include:

• Uppsala University was founded in 1477 and it is the first university in Scandinavia.
• Museum Gustavianum is full of obsolete tools and other oddities. Here you can find stuffed birds, alligator mummies, as well as a theatre where executed criminals were dissected.
• Tropical Greenhouse contains plants native to warm climates from around the world. Many of these plants are cultivated for functional roles such as the Manila hemp which is used to make teabags.
• Uppsala Cathedral was built more than 750 years ago using brick and the structure has survived several fires. It was moved here from the previous location after the old cathedral was completely destroyed by a fire. There is also a cathedral café where you can have coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light lunches.
• Stroll along the Fyris River. Since the city was moved south from its original location, Uppsala has become a hub of commerce due to this river.

Southampton, UK

A port city in the south of England, Southampton is the place where the Titanic departed from in 1912. Today, Southampton is a place where multiple cruise ships depart from. So if Southampton is the starting point of your cruise, give yourself a few extra days to explore the city. And even if you’re not going on a cruise, it’s still worth a visit. It is one of the liveliest cities in the UK with modern lifestyles and medieval buildings. You can reach Southampton by train, plane, as well as by ship.

Some attractions include:

• The SeaCity Museum is located in the centre of the city. It tells the story of Southampton, its connection to the water, and stories from the Titanic.
• The Old Town is enclosed on three sides by one of the longest stretches of Medieval wall in the UK.
• God’s House Tower is a 13th century gatehouse in the Old Town. In 2019 it opened to visitors and it hosts exhibitions and events celebrating local heritage. From the tower roof you can observe great views of the city and harbour.
• Tudor House and Gardens is another attraction located in the Old Town. There are over 800 years of history and traditions of those who called Southampton home in the past.
• Ocean Village is a modern living, leisure, and shopping centre. Take a stroll along the pier and enjoy great views.

Aberdeen, UK

Also known as “Granite City” thanks to its many grey-stone buildings, Aberdeen is a port city in northeast Scotland. The city is very lively with a thriving international population thanks to the growth in the petroleum industry. Having said that, Aberdeen attracts significantly fewer tourists compared to other cities in the UK and it feels more authentic. You can reach Aberdeen by plane from multiple European cities, by train, or by ferry.

Some attractions include:

• The Maritime Museum is located on the historic Shiprow site. The museum is made up of multiple collections that explore the importance of the sea to the city. Starting with trading, fishing, shipbuilding, and lastly the discovery of oil and gas.
• Provost Skene’s House was built in 1545 and it is the oldest surviving house in the city. Today it celebrates the people of Aberdeen and northeast Scotland. There are interactive displays featuring scientists, sports champions, innovators who were born, have lived or worked in Aberdeen.
• Footdee is an old fishing village at the east end of Aberdeen Harbour. It dates back to 1809 and it was intended to home the fishermen who were living in poor conditions. The area is composed of small and colourful residential cottages.
• Old Aberdeen is where you will find the university and St. Machar’s Cathedral, which is the oldest building still in use.
• Take a day trip to Dunnottar Castle. To get there, catch a train to Stonehaven town, then walk along the coastal trail. Alternatively you can rent a bike, or take a taxi. The castle is actually a fortress and it is situated on top of a cliff.

Galway, Ireland

Originally formed as a small fishing village, Galway is located on Ireland’s west coast where River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean. Today the city has a laidback atmosphere, bohemian culture, and popular café scene. Galway is a great destination for arts and culture enthusiasts, foodies, as well as outdoor adventurers. To get here you can fly into Dublin, Shannon, Knock or Cork airports, then take a bus or taxi to Galway.

Some attractions include:

• The Circle of Life Commemorative Garden overlooks the Galway Bay and was enacted to celebrate organ donors. The garden is a beautiful place to go for a stroll, sit on a bench and enjoy some nature.
• Kirwan’s Lane, located in the Latin Quarter, contains many buildings from the 16th and 17th century, many of which have been turned into cafés, restaurants, and shops.
• Explore the city by kayaking down the River Corrib. Likewise you can also kayak on the sea and explore Rabbit and Hare Island, Oranmore Bay and the Mutton Island Lighthouse.
• Derroura Mountain Bike Trail takes you through 16 km of unspoilt countryside.
• Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher. Tour buses depart daily from Galway and the journey (both ways) takes around 8 hours.
• Take a day trip to Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey. There are daily buses from Galway and the journey takes around 7 hours.

Rijeka, Croatia

A Croatian port city on Kvarner Bay in the northern Adriatic Sea, Rijeka is known as the gateway to the Croatian islands. Since tourists have been skipping this city in favour of Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik, you can find a more authentic environment here. What was once a key port for the Austro-Hungarian empire, Rijeka is full of history and beautiful buildings. To get to Rijeka you can fly in from several European cities, catch a train from Zagreb (5 hours) or Ljubljana (3 hours), or arrive by ferry.

Some attractions include:

• Trsat Castle is situated on a hill overlooking the harbour. This is the site of the first settlement of Rijeka, which has been inhabited since prehistoric times!
• Climb the Petar Druzic Stairway which consists of 538 steps and leads up to the Church of Our Lady of Trsat, next to the Trsat Castle.
• Natural History Museum of Rijeka was founded in 1876 and it is a great destination for families. There is an aquarium, multimedia centre, and permanent exhibits featuring aquatic life from the Adriatic Sea.
• The PEEK&POKE Computer Museum contains over 2,000 old computers, games, printers, and other vintage electronics. This is a one of a kind museum that’s perfect for the whole family. You can even play a game on one of the old machines that are still functional.
• Sablicevo beach is located on the eastern part of the town and can be reached by foot (via a long walk) or public transit. Bring some food and spend a whole day sunbathing and swimming in the emerald blue water. There are public bathrooms.
• Stay on a botel. Once a car ferry, the Marina was built in Denmark in 1936 and it has been recently converted into a floating hotel anchored on the harbour.

Nafplion, Greece

Nafplion, also known as Nafplio, is located on the northeast of Peloponnese and has strong Medieval ties. It was also the first capital city of independent Greece. Nafplion makes a great base for those interested in visiting archeological sites such as Mycenae and Epidaurus. The Old Town resembles Plaka (in Athens) but on the sea. There are multiple restaurants, shops, and things to do, but significantly fewer tourists, making Nafplion a great alternative to Athens. To reach Nafplion, you can take a bus from Athens and the journey takes around 2 hours (depending on traffic).

Some attractions include:

• Climb the 857 stairs to Palamidi Castle and enjoy 360° views of the city and sea.
• Walk the Arvanitia Promenade which takes you right along the coast to the outskirts of Old Town.
• The Archeological Museum is located inside a beautiful Venetian building. Artefacts on display include a Palaeolithic hearth, a 6th-century-BC amphora, bronze armour from near Mycenae (that is 3500 years old!) and more.
• Take a day trip to Bourtzi Island fortress. It was built in 1473 to serve as a pirate deterrent.
• Have a picnic on Arvanitia Beach, a small pebbled beach located on the southern part of town. There are fantastic views.

Keszthely, Hungary

Located on the western shore of Lake Balaton, Keszthely is an important cultural, educational, and economic hub. It is the perfect destination for those looking to mix lake-side sports and relaxation with culture, nightlife and dining. Keszthely is a peaceful, compact city that can be easily explored on foot. From Budapest you can take a train or bus to Keszthely and the journey takes about 2.5 hours.

Some attractions include:

• Festetics Palace (pictured) is a 100-room baroque building. Immerse yourself into the lifestyle of the Hungarian aristocracy complete with original and refurbished furniture and artefacts. You can also participate in wine tasting in the cellars at the palace.
• Wold you like to visit an x-rated Renaissance wax museum? Well you can at Panoptikum. In addition to figurines depicting different scenes, there are also sketches and paintings.
• Travel 8 km to the north west to Hévíz, a well-known spa town. There are multiple baths, spas, and treatments. To reach Hévíz, there are buses that depart from Keszthely every 15 minutes on weekdays during the summer.
• Balaton Museum was built in 1928 to showcase the life and history of Lake Balaton. There is an aquarium with fish, exhibit on the baths and bathing culture, as well as paintings depicting local life and more.

Oradea, Romania

Situated in northwest Romania, Oradea is well known for baroque and art nouveau architecture that dates back to the Austro-Hungarian empire. As it used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and it is located very close to Hungary, Oradea is a blend of Romania and Hungary. Both in terms of culture, language, as well as in the way of life. Since there is an airport, you can reach Oradea by plane. Additionally you could take a train from Budapest (almost 6 hours) or from Cluj-Napoca (almost 4 hours).

Some attractions include:

• Calea Republicii, located in the heart of the city, is where you will find a large number of Art Nouveau buildings, as well as cafés and restaurants. It is a pedestrian only street and the buildings have been refurbished recently.
• Apotheca Rodia is one of the oldest pharmacies in Oradea. Having been around for over 250 years, with the original furnishings, murals, and artefacts, Apotheca Rodia now serves as a museum.
• The Fortress of Oradea was originally built from 1114 to 1131, but got destroyed by the Tartars in 1241. It was rebuilt in Italian style from 1570 to 1589, and expanded from 1717 to 1780.
• Tarii Crisurilor Museum is a large museum that has been newly renovated and contains multiple divisions from art to natural sciences. You can see rocks from 1.7 billion years ago, mammoth skeletons, traditional clothing, paintings, and even reptiles.

Sibiu, Romania

Some attractions include:

• The ASTRA National Museum Complex is an open-air museum where you will find traditional Romanian buildings from varying periods in time. There is also a mill and a ferry. The museum is located to the south of the city and can be easily reached by taxi.
• The Bridge of Lies is one of the most popular attractions in Sibiu. Legend has it that if you tell a lie while standing on the bridge, it will collapse.
• Climb to the top of the Turnul Sfatului (Council Tower), a 13th century tower and enjoy great views of the city. The climb is short but narrow (thus it could be claustrophobic for some) and you have to pay a small fee.
• Take a day trip to Ocna Sibiului, located just 10 km away. This is a small town that is known for its saline lakes. You can swim in the lakes and enjoy their healing properties, have a spa day, and walk around the town.
• Likewise, you can take a longer day trip to Sighisoara. This is a small medieval fortified city listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. You can got to Sighisoara by train in less than 4 hours. Tickets are affordable (around 5-10 USD). Since Sighisoara is very small, a few hours are enough to explore and have a meal.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Located in southern Bulgaria, Plovdiv is an ancient city built around 7 hills. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe still inhabited, with its history dating back to 6th century BC! Plovdiv is a quiet, peaceful city with lots of attractions, as well as thriving nightlife. In recent years a large international crowd of digital nomads have made Plovdiv home, bringing an international flare to this little city. To reach Plovdiv, you can take a bus (~ 2.5 hours) or a train (~3.5 hours) from Sofia.

Some attractions include:

• Take a free walking tour. This is a great way to see all the main attractions, learn a little history, and connect to a local.
• The Hindlian House is located in the heart of the city and was once owned by a rich Armenian merchant. The house contains multiple paintings, furniture, and other artefacts from the 19th century.
• Philippopolis Art Gallery is Bulgaria’s first private art gallery. Located in a National Revival Style building, there are works from the 19th and 20th century created by Bulgarian artists. And if you’re travelling on a budget you’ll be pleased to learn that entrance is free.
• Tsar Simeon Central Garden is a public park in the centre of the city. There are beautiful fountains, statues, floral displays, and playground for kids. It is a great place to stroll, relax, and enjoy an ice cream cone.
• Nebet Hill is one of the 7 hills around Plovdiv and it is where you will find the Pŭldin Fortress. You will also find great views of the city from the top of the hill.
• The neighborhood of Kapana (also known as the Trap) is a pedestrian only area with lots of cafés, restaurants, and shops. It is a very lively and colourful place to be.

---

These have been my top 20 best small cities in Europe to visit. Have you been to any other small city not on this list that impressed you?