There’s nothing quite like a European capital for a wonderful week-long vacation or more. Each and every capital in Europe offers unique culture, rich history, impressive architecture, and the charm of the old world. Rome, London, and Paris are, of course, popular capitals that attract everyone, but there are a few hidden gems you shouldn’t overlook just because you might have judged them wrongly. If you dream of the perfect vacation in Europe but are worried about expensive destinations with overwhelming crowds of tourists, we have a few suggestions for capitals you may never have thought of visiting, but are absolutely worth considering.
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1. Valletta, Malta
Valletta is a tiny capital city, and although it is the smallest among Europe’s capitals, it has a lot to offer. Aside from being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts an impressive number of 320 national monuments within just 0.6 square kilometers. The city was founded in 1566 and has a remarkable military history, reflected in its high fortifications. The first thing that will catch your eye is the glow of the limestone from which the city was built, glittering under the Mediterranean sun. Inside, you can lose yourself in a maze of alleys that lead to ancient churches and cozy cafés where you can soak up the atmosphere. Since Malta itself is a small place, you can click here to discover what else you can see and do there to fill more than just a short weekend getaway.
2. Bern, Switzerland
Many people mistakenly think Switzerland’s capital is Zurich. Bern may be smaller and quieter, but visiting it feels like stepping into a medieval fairy tale. It’s clean, well-managed, and beautiful, a perfect example of the Swiss way of life. Among the turquoise meandering river and its green squares, you’ll find an array of activities and attractions. The Old City itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its architecture will take you back almost a thousand years to the 12th century. Click here to discover what you can do in the city and the surrounding canton.
3. Belgrade, Serbia
The capital of Serbia sits at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Like other Eastern European cities, it has experienced many ups and downs throughout its long history, from the Roman era to the Ottoman period. Today, it’s a gritty and energetic city filled with street art, traditional Serbian taverns (kafanas), and a nightlife scene that’s hard to beat. To fully immerse yourself in the local music, energy, culture, and cuisine, visit the Skadarlija district. You can click here to find out what else you can see and do there.
4. Helsinki, Finland
Finland’s capital is a Scandinavian paradise, particularly for those who appreciate rugged and beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. It’s very unique compared to other European capitals and could even be described as minimalist in its style and atmosphere. A perfect place to start is the Design District, home to Finnish art, fashion, and crafts. You’ll also find a massive local market offering everything from delicious Finnish pastries to handcrafted goods. The city is surrounded by fjords and islands, which can be easily reached by ferry. If you’re looking for a unique experience, visit the famous Oodi Library, which will completely change how you think about libraries. Click here to learn more.
5. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is one of those cities that isn’t talked about much but always surprises visitors. It’s one of the oldest cities in Europe, featuring many Roman ruins, Soviet-era residential buildings, and impressive churches. The city’s highlight is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, but what truly sets it apart is the abundance of green spaces perfect for walking and, of course, delicious food at a fraction of the price you’d pay in other European capitals. In short, it’s a relatively inexpensive destination that doesn’t try too hard but still manages to impress.
6. Riga, Latvia
A significant draw for tourists to Riga is its history from the Middle Ages and the 12th century, during the Hanseatic League era, when city-states and merchant guilds banded together to defend against pirates. It’s the largest city in the Baltic Sea region, with a perfect blend of Eastern and Western Europe, creating a unique dynamic and atmosphere. Its turbulent past, filled with conquests, uprisings, and the fight for independence, has left its mark on the city. Today, you’ll find a large number of inviting cafés, stunning ancient churches, cobblestone streets, and open squares—everything you’d expect from a European capital. You can click here to watch a video showcasing the city’s beautiful Art Nouveau architecture.
7. Dublin, Ireland
The hospitality of Dublin’s residents is legendary and incredibly warm. The city is known worldwide for its rich pub culture, thanks in part to Guinness beer and Irish whiskey. However, what many don’t know is that the city is also home to one of the world’s top universities, making it a hub of education and culture—not just a place for revelry. The streets, lined with pubs, seem to have music flowing through the air, and the Georgian architecture reminds you exactly where you are. The locals are always happy to chat with visitors and offer tips or guidance, making Dublin one of the friendliest capitals in Europe. You can click here for a small tour with beautiful images.
8. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen embodies the word "hygge," a Danish term meaning a state of coziness, comfort, friendliness, and well-being. This city has elevated "coziness" to an art form, with clean canals, royal palaces, and inviting restaurants. There are countless attractions, and the city’s relaxed vibe will completely release you from daily stress. That said, it’s important to note that Copenhagen is not a cheap destination, but the high quality of life is evident in the smiles of its residents. Click here to discover what’s worth doing there and other places in Denmark.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
Visiting Reykjavik feels like traveling to another planet. The city may be small, but it serves as the gateway to Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, and the Northern Lights. The city is filled with cafés and unique art, blending Nordic and modern cultures in an eclectic way. You can enjoy simply walking through the streets or indulging in a luxurious spa experience at the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most popular tourist destinations.
10. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn looks more like a village from fairy tales than a real city. It’s a picturesque place with cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and beautiful red rooftops. All of this is combined with modern culture, including contemporary art and lively bars, resulting in a European capital that’s perfect for any type of traveler. Everything here is beautifully preserved, and despite its ancient charm, Tallinn is very technologically advanced—it’s even called the "Silicon Valley of Europe." You can click here to watch a video showcasing all the wonderful things this city has to offer.
