To be included on our list of the best cities in Europe, certain criteria must be met. European cities should have world-class dining options, a plethora of chic hotels, friendly locals and interesting history. Several Spanish cities came out on top in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards poll, but they also voted for cities in Denmark, Switzerland, Portugal, Iceland, Croatia and Norway. In fact, cities in Scandinavia are so popular with Condé Nast Traveler readers that the region has two cities in the top five – closely followed by a Spanish seaside town at the top.
These are the best cities in Europe, according to the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.
The best cities in Europe
10. Dubrovnik, Croatia. Score 82.82
This Adriatic city is perhaps the most famous and popular in Croatia. It is surrounded by stone walls built in the 16th century, creating a striking landscape. It’s also a great starting point for a Croatian island hopping adventure.
Where to stay: Dubrovnik has some of the best hotels in Croatia. We particularly like Ninion Boutique Hotel, an adults-only hideout.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland. Score 82.98
„Iceland’s capital may be busier than ever, but it still has a palpable soul and punches well above its weight culturally,” director Toby Skinner said in our cheat’s guide to Iceland. The food scene ranges from music bars to new Nordic eateries that rival its Scandinavian neighbors, and it’s also home to some cool festivals held every summer.
Where to stay: The arrival of Ian Schrager’s Reykjavik Edition at the end of 2021 felt like a step up for the city.
8. Zurich, Switzerland. Score 82.62
Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is the only Swiss entrant in the top ten this year. The city scores highly for things like shopping and outdoor activities, which is perhaps not surprising since it’s situated on a lake and surrounded by mountains.
Where to stay: Marktgasse Hotel occupies two 15th-century buildings in the Old Town, while Baur au Lac, overlooking the lake, is the grandest of the old palace hotels.
7. Bruges, Belgium. Score 83.69
Hit the cobbled streets and discover the true masterpieces of this charming city – canalside restaurants, sweet bakeries, unique chocolate shops and beautiful neighborhoods perfect for exploring by bike are just some of the reasons why they made it into this year’s survey. . Bruges is also a plus for its friendliness and its hotels and resorts.
Where to stay: Maison Amodio is a three-room B&B themed on places the owners enjoy – Paris, Biarritz and nearby Knokke.
6. Porto, Portugal. Score 84.29
Lisbon gets more airtime than its sister Porto, but the smaller city follows in the capital’s footsteps. According to author Abigail Malbon in our pick of the best hotels in Porto, Porto has “arguably the most beautiful train station in the world, with port in every bar on every corner Tasting session.” Porto also has beautiful restaurants, making it the perfect weekend getaway – here’s how to spend 72 hours in Porto.
Where to stay: Overlooking the Douro River on the corner of one of the city’s oldest squares, Gran Cruz House is right in the thick of it.
5. Dublin, Ireland. Score 85.18
Millions of tourists flock to the capital of the Republic of Ireland every year – and it remains one of our readers’ favorite cities, making it into the top five. There are many wonderful new hotels opening in Dublin to suit the needs of every type of traveller, there are plenty of exciting things to do and the restaurants here are some of our favorites in Ireland.
Where to stay: In the heart of pretty Georgian Dublin, The Merrion Hotel comprises an impeccable restoration of four townhouses that have been stitched together.
4. Malaga, Spain. Score 86.90
This coastal town is back in the game following an arts renaissance, trendy new restaurants and some trendy places to stay. Many museums have opened, including the Malaga Museum and the Picasso Museum in Malaga. On the gastronomic scene, places like the Mercado Central de Atarazanas (a 14th-century shipyard) in the Central Market take center stage, and La Terraza de San Juan in the Hotel Málaga Premium remains a favorite.
Where to stay: Palacio Solecio is an 18th-century palace built for a Genoese merchant, while La Zambra is one of the newest creations from the Marugal hotel group.
3. Oslo, Norway. Score 88.67
The citizens of Oslo are particularly interested in showing visitors the best of the city, from Oslo Cathedral (where the Norwegian royal family and government still host important events throughout the year) to Akershus Castle. Baroque architecture characterizes the city, and there are no less than 30 museums in and between the city, showcasing the city’s historical, artistic and political history, and countless hiking trails winding around rivers and gardens. Through the suburbs.
Where to stay: Glamorous newcomer Sommerro has the city’s first year-round rooftop pool and sauna, plus seven restaurants and bars.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark. Score 88.78
Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, has long held the title of „the happiest city in the world” and is known for its strong community spirit, exciting food scene, and countless canals that connect different parts of the city. From the 18th-century Rococo Quarter, built during the reign of Frederick V and the ruins of Amalienborg Palace, to Østerbro, built around Copenhagen’s medieval fortress on the outskirts of the city.
Where to stay: Villa Copenhagen has a great location right next to Tivoli Gardens and a buzzy atmosphere at its all-day brasserie and in-house bakery, headed up by former Noma chef Gonzalo Guarda.
1. San Sebastian, Spain. Score 90.54
San Sebastian, a resort town in Spain’s Basque mountains stretching along the coast of the Bay of Biscay, tops the list of Europe’s best tourist cities. The area is known for its laid-back vibe, long stretches of honey-colored beaches, and a variety of culinary outposts helmed by world-renowned chefs.
Where to stay: For a central stay, Arbaso is the city’s coolest urban hotel. Elsewhere, in the Parte Vieja’s vast universe of pintxo bars, Lasala Plaza is home to a rare rooftop ‘solarium.’ See our guide to the best San Sebastían hotels for more
