The highly anticipated annual ranking of the world’s best cities by Time Out magazine has been released, with Berlin emerging as the champion among European destinations. In a competitive field of 50 cities, including four strong contenders from the UK, Berlin secured the coveted third-place position overall, making it the best European city, surpassed only by New York and Cape Town. London followed closely behind in fourth place.
Berlin’s impressive ranking comes as no surprise to many. The city boasts a unique and vibrant cultural scene, offering an abundance of attractions beyond its renowned museums and historical landmarks. From diverse dining options and trendy brunch spots to a thriving art scene and an unparalleled nightlife scene, Berlin caters to a wide range of interests and experiences.
The 2024 ranking was compiled in partnership with Potentia Insight, drawing upon insights from thousands of city-dwellers worldwide. The survey factored in various aspects of urban life, including affordability, food quality, cultural offerings, nightlife options, resident happiness, and ease of socializing. Notably, Berlin received an impressive 82% approval rating for its nightlife scene, further solidifying its reputation as a top European party destination.
European Contenders on The List
This victory is undoubtedly a testament to Berlin’s ongoing transformation and continued appeal. The city’s commitment to affordability, accessibility, community spirit, and cutting-edge urban development bolster its position as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a dynamic and enriching city break.
And yet, the same can be said about many other European cities. Generally, European tourism is booming, and Europe as a whole has a very bright future ahead of it in terms of travel and hospitality. In fact, the same list of 50 boasts a total of 16 names that also come from Europe. More importantly, the upper half of the list is clearly dominated by Europe. This is specifically how 7 other European cities performed in the top 25 alone:
5. Madrid
9. Rome
10. Porto
11. Paris
13. Lisbon
18. Amsterdam
21. Naples
Without taking away from the luster of Berlin’s victory, let’s take a look at what these other cities have to offer.
Madrid, Spain
Bustling Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is a city that throbs with life and energy. Renowned for its world-class art museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía, it also boasts stunning architecture, from the awe-inspiring Royal Palace to the intricate Sagrada Familia. Beyond its cultural gems, Madrid’s true magic lies in its lively atmosphere, with flamenco shows, tapas crawls, and late-night revelry painting the town red.
Unique offerings:
Golden Triangle of Art:
Immerse yourself in masterpieces at the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, housing works by Goya, Velázquez, Picasso, and Dalí.
Royal Grandeur:
Witness the opulence of the Spanish monarchy at the Royal Palace, with its opulent chambers and priceless collections.
Flamenco Fire:
Be captivated by the fiery passion of flamenco, a traditional Spanish dance, in tablaos (flamenco venues) throughout the city.
Tapas Trail:
Embark on a culinary adventure, hopping from bar to bar and savoring delectable tapas, small plates bursting with flavor.
Late-Night Buzz:
Experience Madrid’s nocturnal spirit, with lively bars and clubs keeping the party going until sunrise.
Rome, Italy
Eternal Rome, the cradle of Western civilization, is an open-air museum where history whispers from every cobblestone street and ancient ruin. From the iconic Colosseum and Trevi Fountain to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, the city is a treasure trove of artistic and architectural marvels. Rome also offers delectable cuisine, charming neighborhoods, and a relaxed pace of life.
Unique offerings:
Colosseum’s Echoes:
Step back in time and imagine gladiatorial battles within the imposing walls of the Colosseum, a symbol of Rome’s ancient might.
Trevi Fountain’s Wish:
Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to this magical city, and marvel at the awe-inspiring Baroque sculpture.
Vatican Wonders:
Explore the Vatican Museums, home to priceless art, and witness Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
Trastevere Charm:
Wander through the cobbled streets of Trastevere, a charming neighborhood known for its trattorias, artisan shops, and bohemian vibe.
Gelato Bliss:
Indulge in the creamiest and most flavorful gelato, a quintessential Roman treat enjoyed in countless flavors.
Porto, Portugal
Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto is a captivating blend of old and new, where historic Ribeira district with its colorful houses contrasts with modern architecture. Porto is renowned for its port wine production, which you can explore in its cellars, and its vibrant art scene. The city also offers stunning views from its bridges and delicious Francesinha sandwiches.
Unique offerings:
Port Wine Cellars:
Descend into the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia and sip on port wine, a fortified wine unique to Porto.
Ribeira’s Charm:
Stroll along the scenic Ribeira district, adorned with colorful houses lining the Douro River, and soak in the charming atmosphere.
Serra do Pilar Viewpoint:
Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Douro River from the top of the Serra do Pilar viewpoint.
Francesinha Feast:
Savor the iconic Francesinha, a hearty sandwich layered with meats, sausage, cheese, and a tomato-beer sauce.
Livraria Lello Magic:
Step into the enchanting Livraria Lello, a bookstore renowned for its Neo-Gothic architecture and rumored inspiration for Harry Potter’s Hogwarts.
Paris, France
Paris, the City of Lights, is a name that conjures images of romance, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. But beyond the clichés, Paris offers a unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary energy.
Unique offerings:
Louvre’s Treasures:
Wander through the vast halls of the Louvre, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
Eiffel Tower’s Panoramic Views:
Ascend the Eiffel Tower, a marvel of engineering, and soak in breathtaking views of the city.
Seine River Cruise:
Glide down the Seine River, passing charming bridges and iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral.
Montmartre’s Artistic Charm:
Explore the hilly neighborhood of Montmartre, known for its Sacré-Coeur basilica, vineyards, and charming cafes.
Macaron Delights:
Indulge in the colorful and flavorful macarons, Parisian pastries that are as delicious as they are beautiful.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal’s hilly capital, boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal views. Explore its charming neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto, ride the iconic Tram 28, and savor delicious Portuguese cuisine.
Unique offerings:
São Jorge Castle’s Panorama:
Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Tagus River from the São Jorge Castle, a historic landmark.
Jerónimos Monastery’s Grandeur:
Marvel at the Manueline architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tram 28 Ride:
Take a nostalgic ride on Tram 28, which winds its way through narrow streets and offers glimpses of Lisbon’s hidden corners.
Pastel de Nata Bliss:
Devour the iconic Pastel de Nata, a custard tart that’s a must-try for any visitor to Lisbon.
Fado Music Enchantment:
Immerse yourself in the melancholic beauty of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre, in Alfama’s intimate restaurants.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, the Netherlands’ vibrant capital, is known for its picturesque canals, world-renowned art museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, and its liberal and tolerant atmosphere.
Unique offerings:
Canal Cruise:
Take a scenic canal cruise, the best way to experience Amsterdam’s charming waterways and historic architecture.
Anne Frank House:
Visit the Anne Frank House, a poignant reminder of World War II and a symbol of hope and resilience.
Van Gogh Museum’s Masterpieces:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and swirling brushstrokes of Van Gogh’s masterpieces at the Van Gogh Museum.
Bloemenmarkt’s Flower Power:
Stroll through the colorful Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Coffeeshop Culture:
Experience Amsterdam’s unique coffeeshop culture, where cannabis is legal for recreational use.
Naples, Italy
Naples, Italy’s vibrant southern city, is renowned for its delicious pizza, rich history, and stunning views of Mount Vesuvius. Explore the historic center, wander through the Spaccanapoli district, and savor authentic Neapolitan cuisine.
Unique offerings:
Pizza Perfection:
Savor the world’s best pizza in Naples, birthplace of this culinary masterpiece, made with fresh, local ingredients and cooked in wood-fired ovens.
Pompeii’s Ruins:
Walk through the haunting ruins of Pompeii, a Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Spaccanapoli’s Bustle:
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Spaccanapoli district, a narrow alleyway lined with shops, cafes, and street vendors.
Cappella Sansevero’s Veiled Christ:
Marvel at the breathtaking Veiled Christ sculpture, a masterpiece of realism by Giuseppe Sanmartino.
Mount Vesuvius Hike:
Hike up the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, Europe’s only active volcano, and witness the power of nature.
A New Travel Authorisation on the Horizon
One important subject that ties all of these cities together is the ETIAS, or the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. Launching in 2025, this travel authorisation will be required for visa-exempt travelers visiting the Schengen Zone, including the cities we just explored.
If you’re planning a European adventure, understanding the ETIAS is crucial. It’s specifically made for citizens of over 60 countries who currently don’t need a visa to enter the Schengen area. The online application process involves providing basic information, travel details, and paying a small fee. While relatively straightforward, familiarizing yourself with the requirements beforehand ensures a smooth travel experience.
Remember, the ETIAS doesn’t replace visas; it’s an additional authorisation. For visa-required nationalities, the traditional visa application process still applies. Additionally, keep in mind that the ETIAS doesn’t guarantee entry. Border officials have the final say, so ensuring you meet all entry requirements remains essential.
So, while you dream about exploring the charming streets of Paris, indulging in Lisbon’s Pastel de Nata, or marveling at the Colosseum in Rome, remember to factor the ETIAS into your planning. With a little preparation and understanding, you can ensure a stress-free and unforgettable European adventure!