Madrid, London, Paris, Lisbon—these are some of the most-visited cities in Western Europe. If you’re planning a city break in this region, there’s a good chance you have one of these metropolises in your sights. But there’s a lot more to these countries and this region than the big capitals. Here are some of the best cities in Western Europe, with no capitals in sight.
Faro
Located in the Algarve region, which attracts around 5 million tourists every year, Faro is a gorgeous and often overlooked city.
You can take the bus to Faro from most towns and cities in Spain, with many direct routes available. Once there, you can explore its charming old town, complete with cobbled streets, historic landmarks (including remnants of an old Roman wall), and a variety of great shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes.
Faro sits on a busy coastline, so you can partake in some water sports, stroll along the harbor, take a boat tour, or explore some of the region’s beautiful beaches.
Historic Cities of England
London has its charms, plus a wealth of history to explore. But there’s more to England than its capital, whether it’s the picturesque Cotswolds in the south or the serene Lake District in the north. If it’s cities you’re looking for, consider booking a ticket to one of these smaller but equally memorable destinations:
- Lincoln: Steeped in a blend of Roman and Medieval charm, the city of Lincoln dates back over 2,000 years when it was founded as a settlement called Lindum Colonia.
- York: Expanded by the Romans and settled by the Vikings, York celebrates its history with a host of museums and the gorgeous, cobbled streets known as The Shambles.
- Bath: Ever wondered what it would be like to spend time in a Roman bathhouse? In Bath, you can. This small city is also a short drive from the massive Longleat Safari Park.
- Oxford: Known for its university, Oxford is a quaint and historic town. It’s not too far from London either, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a day trip out of the capital.
- Liverpool: As the birthplace of The Beatles and other great musicians and bands, Liverpool is a great place to explore musical history. It’s also where you’ll find the home stadium of Liverpool F.C., a must-see for sports fans.
- Whitby: A small coastal town in the north, Whitby is best known for its Abbey, which inspired part of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It’s also where you’ll find the famous Whitby jet, as well as some of the best fish n’ chips in the country.
Innsbruck
The city of Innsbruck is a popular winter retreat, with some of the best skiing in Europe. You can ride cable cars up the mountain for some breathtaking views, try a spot of skiing or snowboarding, or just stroll through the gorgeous city streets and enjoy the city’s rich culture. It’s a city for culture lovers, but it’s primarily a city for those who enjoy hiking, sports, and more adrenaline-fueled pursuits.
Hamburg
Often overlooked for cities like Munich, Berlin, and Frankfurt, Hamburg is a true hidden gem and it’s jam-packed with great music and culture. Although they were born and raised in Liverpool, England, it’s in Hamburg where The Beatles mastered their craft, and you’ll see many Fab Four venues and lots of memorabilia in the city.
The beautiful city is crisscrossed by scores of canals and it’s home to some incredible nightlife, as well as great museums, art galleries, and live music venues. Some of the must-see attractions include the Ottensen district, the Ohlsdorf Centre, and the Kontorhausviertel, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lille
Lille is a city is a French city that serves as an intersection between French and Flemish cultures, producing some incredible food, as well as the continent’s best beers. It’s a university city and a cultural hub, so it’s always buzzing with activity and there is no shortage of things to do, including art galleries, a natural history museum, an opera house, and more.
Summary: Overlooked Cities in Western Europe
Lisbon is a beautiful city, you can make incredible memories in Paris, and history lovers will get a kick out of London, Athens, and Rome. There’s so much to see, do, eat, drink, and experience in this part of the world. But it’s not all about the big cities. So, consider one of the smaller cities from our list the next time you plan a vacation in Western Europe.