10 Most Beautiful Neighborhoods in Europe

Historic, alluring craftsmanship, tales as old as time, culinary excellence and exhaustingly walkable. For many of the world’s neighborhoods, you can only have one. But in Europe’s most beautiful neighborhoods, you truly can have it all.

These districts hold fast to a bygone era, before stone and exuberance was replaced by quick-builds and bottom lines. They’re a fairytale for those who don’t reside within, while enshrining the past and infusing the present with elevated culture and mouthwatering eats. Here are our favorites:

10. Gothic Quarter, Barcelona

Time is required to do Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter justice. This isn’t to sound overbearing but to show the layers that exist in its old-time streets. The Barrio Gotico is beyond packed with adventures, food, wine and cultural landmarks. Unless you have weeks, you’ll have to pick and choose. It’s a privilege, not a burden.

Fill your days with the sights at Placa de Sant Jaume, explore the backstreets that envelope the Cathedral of Barcelona or dance between the bustling La Rambla and neighboring alleyways. When it comes time to remenisce, head to Els Quatre Gats, a 19th century beer-bar that introduces the barrios’ foodie flair.

9. Montmartre, Paris

Some of these boulevards lead to cultural landmarks like Moulin Rouge, the hilltop Sacré Coeur and distant views of a shimmering Eiffel Tower. But all roads lead to Place Du Tertre which continues the neighborhood’s rich art story.

8. Temple Bar, Dublin

Traditional ambiance, classic Irish quirkiness and whiskey all have found themselves a home in Dublin’s Temple Bar neighborhood. As the name suggests, the area is a temple for Irish traditions and architecture and as for the second part, that goes without explanation.

The historic “dodginess” of the neighborhood allowed it to be reborn with Irish peculiarity and with unique personality. The city’s cultural quarter preserves the old-time buildings whose warm interior lighting beckons you inward. Especially the famous pub that shares the neighborhood’s name.

Trust us, it’s good craic.

7. Malasaña, Madrid

No neighborhood represents the bohemian spirit of Madrid quite like Malasaña. Hip, fresh and exciting, this barrio still harbors the old charm and links to the Madrid Movement and the Spanish Independence War.

Time here begins in the Plaza del 2 de Mayo, close to some of Madrids best museums and cultural sites. In classic Madrid fashion, time in Malasaña is much about eating, drinking and good conversation. But it’s the History and culture that captures your eyes and elevates its beauty.

Explore the San Anton market, take a siesta in the Buen Retiro Park, before settling in for some people watching at the Plaza de Chueca.

6. Covent Garden, London

In an already vibrant city, Covent Garden’s blend of lively atmosphere, memorable green spaces and historic architecture makes it one of Europe’s best neighborhoods.

The Covent Green Market, with its 19th century design, original ironwork, arches and glass-covered roofs offers unique aesthetic among along with premier market vibes. This flows into streets featuring high-end shopping and Michelin-star dining.

The Royal opera House lights up the Theatre District, while art galleries and museums quickly fill your to-do list. Of course, if you just want to chill there is the Cobble Stone Piazza and secret gardens for picnics.

5. Gamla Stan, Stockholm

Preserved History and eye-catching architecture are often the two most important aspects of an unforgettable European neighborhood. Gamla Stan has both, and more.

The Old Town of Stockholm dates back to the Middle Ages, while remarkably many of the neighborhood’s buildings can be traced to the 16th and 17th centuries. Winding cobbled streets become your compass as you admire the ever-changing colors of the buildings. The neighborhood is more of a museum than a town.

Of course, within are actual museums, cathedrals and palaces. However, Gamla Stan’s gastronomic innovation makes it a must-see for culture hounds and foodies alike.

4. Trastevere, Rome

Rome may be for grandiose landmarks, remnants of the Roman heyday but Trastevere takes a different path. The neighborhood is a romantic at heart going against the grain with intimate passageways layered in cobblestones leading to hole-in-the-wall bars and espresso coffee.

Yes, Travelers like us have found out about this stunning neighborhood. But the tune hasn’t changed and it’s easy to get lost (and revel in) its age-old charm. Rustic orange buildings hover above you, window trims flutter, green potted plants add to the rainbow and the ever-present smell of fresh cooking floods the streets. It’s Rome at its finest.

3. Plaka, Athens

Moments from the famous Acropolis, Athens’ neighborhood of Plaka deserves heavy attention on your Greece itinerary. In one of the world’s most historic city, Plaka stands as the original district and remains the most eye-catching in the Athens.

The labyrinth of old stone streets will be a true test of your sense of direction. Yet the deep blue Greek skies and the neoclassical architecture make getting lost an absolute joy.

Known as the Neighborhood of the Gods, there are clear links to famous bygone eras. Such as the Bath House of the Winds, the cubic house of Anafiotika and views of the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

2. Ribeira, Porto

Ribeira is a veritable maze of old-time alleys that tempt you to get lost and found among a dense medieval world. Along the banks of the Douro River, the neighborhood captures the hearts of those who visit, stealing the memories away from other parts of Porto.

The UNESCO World Heritage neighborhood is a glimpse to ancient Portugal, when ships departing for open seas were taking great leaps of faith. But for us, we can simply enjoy the narrow promenades, historic pastel houses, and tiny taverns that have assimilated with the centuries-old architecture.

It’s a picture-perfect town that blends historic charm with epic food and the fascinating Dom Luis Bridge.

1. Stare Mesto, Prague

Wandering Stare Mesto is akin to finding yourself within an old-world fairytale. Here the beauty lies in time frozen, of gothic spires rising above medieval landmarks and cobbled streets shimmering under the old lampposts.

The neighborhood rose in the 12th century, with its central square being one of the most captivating in Europe. Start your experience in Prague’s Old Town at the northern end of Wencaslas Square. The adjacent intersection marks the end of “new” Prague and seemingly the deeper you go, the further back in time you head.

Tyn Church, the Astronomical Clock at the Old Town Hall, Baroque statues, and both Gothic and Renaissance elegance are highlights. However, the atmosphere is equally captivating.