7 Amazing European Destinations with Rich Cultural Heritage

Last Updated on March 8, 2022 by Cody Livingston

Ancient ruins, museums, majestic artworks, beautiful architecture, centuries-old culture, flourishing music, and authentic cuisines are just a few examples of Europe’s unrivalled cultural history. Europe’s rich art and history can be experienced in its cities and towns.

Furthermore, Europe is the birthplace of many artists, including the legendary Leonardo da Vinci and Mozart. It comes as no surprise that so many of us travel to explore amazing European destinations.

Whether you prefer to walk down the memory lane of the historical monuments, or want to see the classics in Paris and Rome, or modern art installations around several museums, here we have listed seven stunning European destinations with a rich cultural heritage.

1 – Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece

Blessed with a rich history and an art scene, Athens is the birthplace of philosophy, democracy, and drama. The city is one of the oldest all around. As a result, it acts as an open-air museum with its temples and ruins. Apart from historic sites, you can explore this contemporary metropolis with local art galleries, pristine beaches, and enjoy the delicious Greek food with a buzzing nightlife scene. Athens is one of the amazing European destinations that attract millions of tourists, thanks to the Mediterranean climate and rich history.

Popular attractions to explore: The Acropolis, Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora of Athens, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Museum of Cycladic Arts, The National Museum of Contemporary Art, and Mnisikleous Street Stairs.

Nearest Airport: Eleftherios Venizelos Airport (ATH), located 30 kilometres from Athens.

Read More: Best Mediterranean Places to visit in Spring 2022

2 – Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao, Spain

Settled on a misty land of green hills and charming fishing villages, Bilbao was once an industrial city that has been transformed into a centre for art and architecture. This pleasing city is filled with cultural attractions, astounding architecture, and an ample contemporary art collection. The Casco Viejo (Old Town) of Bilbao offers plenty of historical knowledge around the Siete Calles (Seven Streets).

Popular attractions to explore: Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao Art District, Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao, Casco Viejo (Old Town), Cathedral de Santiago, and Mercado de la Ribera

Nearest Airport: Bilbao Airport (BIO) is located 9 kilometres north of Bilbao in Loiu, Biscay.

Read More: Top places in Europe for Weekend Trip from London

3 – Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy

Florence is one of the most stunning European destinations, due to its beautiful architecture, impressive art collection, and historical sites. The city is the birthplace of the Renaissance movement and home to the works of Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci. Along with numerous museums and art galleries; every street, alley, and building in Florence is full of rich history and captivating culture.

Popular attractions to explore: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza Duomo, Piazzale Michelangelo, Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Basilica di Santa Croce, and Ponte Vecchio.

Nearest Airport: Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR)

Read More: Places to Celebrate Easter in 2022

4 – Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg, Austria

Stretching along both banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg is a picturesque city, renowned for its architecture and impressive setting. Salzburg has a special place in the world of music as it is the birthplace of the beloved composer Mozart. The rich musical heritage of Salzburg is reflected throughout the city. Along with the music, the Old Town of Salzburg offers a romantic vibe with its narrow mediaeval pathways and courtyards.

Popular attractions to explore: Altstadt Salzburg (Old Town), Fortress Hohensalzburg, Hellbrunn Palace & Fountains, Mozart’s Birthplace, Hallein & the Celtic Museum, and St. Peter’s Abbey.

Nearest Airport: Salzburg’s W.A. Mozart Airport (SZG) is located four kilometres from the city centre.

Read More: Best Spring break Destinations around the World

5 – Paris, France

Paris, France

The French capital is known as the most romantic city in the world. From historical and cultural attractions to terrace cafes and fashion boutiques, Paris is diverse and polished, appealing to travellers of all ages.

Paris has many stunning sights with impressive architecture and design, as well as some incredible and famous art collections. It is probably one of the most amazing European destinations for travellers interested in learning about the history and culture of the world through the visual arts.

Popular attractions to explore: Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Musée d’Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Pantheon, and Centre Pompidou.

Nearest Airport: Paris Orly Airport (ORY), located 14.3 kilometres south of the city centre.

6 – Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy

Rome boasts one of the richest historical and cultural heritages in the world. It is a city that once expanded its empire throughout Asia, Africa, and Europe. Visitors can find history and art at every corner of the streets. Rome is an ideal destination for art lovers and history buffs alike, with ancient ruins, incredible artworks, countless museums & galleries, and world-renowned cuisine.

Popular attractions to explore: Colosseum, Pantheon, the Vatican City, Roman Forum, Appian Way, Borghese Gallery, Piazza Navona, Castel Sant’Angelo National Museum, and Villa Farnesina.

Nearest Airport: Rome Ciampino Airport (CIA) is about 13 kilometres southeast of the city centre.

7 – Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal

The capital city of Portugal, Lisbon is also the second oldest capital city in Europe after Athens. It is one of the most culturally rich and exciting European cities. Lisbon has beautiful architecture, an abundance of historical treasures, stunning views, and delicious gourmet food. From the pastel-coloured artistic structures to the nice buildings with cute colourful tiles, Lisbon is blessed with architectural wonders, historic monuments, world-class museums, and several remarkable things to explore.

Popular attractions to explore: Castelo de São Jorge, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, Belém Tower, Elevador de Santa Justa, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and Basílica da Estrela.

Nearest Airport: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is located 8 kilometres from the city centre of Lisbon, Portugal.

Whether you prefer to see the oldest city in Europe or contemporary art in Bilbao, we have mentioned a few of many stunning destinations with rich cultural history across Europe. Get ready to soak up some culture during your visit to these amazing European destinations.

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