Characterized by a laid-back atmosphere, historical landmarks, and charming narrow streets, visiting Europe’s neighborhoods can make your trip unforgettable.
Stroll through narrow streets between ancient churches and cute plazas! Try local delicacies at open-air street markets where locals gather, and take pictures from panoramic viewpoints. Soak in the local culture in these unique neighborhoods that have withstood the test of time.
From Spain to Croatia, we’ve found enough of Europe’s coolest neighborhoods to keep you busy for numerous trips to come!
10. Ciutat Vella, Valencia
Valencia’s charming historic center, Ciutat Vella, is divided into six little boroughs. Each of them has a unique personality, but throughout Ciutat Vella you’ll encounter large plazas filled with people eating tapas in the sun, old churches, and quirky street art.
Spend some time at the Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest and oldest food markets. You’ll find Spanish classics like Jamon Serrano that you can try!
Visit the Valencia Cathedral and El Micalet, which blend Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque styles. You can even climb up the cathedral’s tower for panoramic views of the city’s old town. Don’t miss the old silk factory building, La Lonja de la Seda, before you leave.
9. Quartieri Spagnoli, Naples
The colourful Quartieri Spagnoli neighborhood in Naples used to be one of the city’s worst regarded areas. Back in the 1500s it was the base for the Spanish soldiers who were garrisoned here. It soon became the city’s black market hub, putting it on the list of no-go zones in the city.
Today, it’s a vibrant neighborhood that has turned itself around. Breathe in the strong smells at the open-air La Pignasecca market near Via Toledo (where all the city’s best boutiques are).
Get lost in the maze of streets and you’ll eventually emerge onto the Piazza del Plebiscito where you can admire the grandiose facade of the San Francesco di Paola church.
8. Santa Cruz, Seville
Charming and quaint, the Santa Cruz Barrio is Seville’s former Jewish quarter. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, through the colourful houses that are decorated with bright hanging flower baskets.
As you explore, you’ll find many small plazas with bustling bars that appear out of nowhere. Stop and try some local tapas dishes, like the regional serranito!
It’s also where two of Seville’s most famous landmarks are – the Alcazar and cathedral. The Alcazar showcases Andalucia’s moorish past, with lush gardens and intricate tile work. But the cathedral holds its own, and is famously the world’s largest Gothic church!
7. Alfama, Lisbon
Lisbon’s historical Alfama neighborhood is one of those places you don’t mind getting lost in. Made up of a dizzying maze of steep alleys that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, it has an undeniable charm.
For views of the city and River Tagus and Atlantic below, head to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Gaze over the city’s rooftops and take some panoramic holiday photos! Keep a look out for the historical yellow trams that travel through Alfama’s streets too. Next, make your way to the Lisbon Cathedral. Built in the 12th century, it blends Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Then wander on to the moorish Sao Jorge Castle that’s perched on the top of the hill!
6. Psiri, Athens
Psiri is a quirky little neighborhood right by Athen’s city center. It feels like a little village nestled into the city thanks to the trendy cafes and spice bazaars that are dotted along the narrow streets.
A blend of old and new, the street’s of Psiri are covered in street art that reflect the neighborhood’s bohemian spirit!
Fancy a drink? Then head to Brettos Bar, the oldest distillery in Athens! They have loads of traditional Greek spirits like mastiha.
Just outside of Psiri you’ll find the old Kerameikos Archaeological Site, where you can see the remnants of an ancient cemetery.
5. Lapad, Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is one of the most popular cities in Europe. The Old Town is riddled with medieval architecture, but the crowds can become quite overwhelming. To escape the crowds, head to the charming Lapad neighborhood, that’s quieter and more relaxed.
Make the most of the Croatian weather with a scenic walk along the Uvala Lapad Promenade that straddles the tranquil Lapad Bay.
Relax in the shade in the tranquil Park Dubrovnik in the heart of the neighborhood before visiting the Fort Royal. The historical fort dates back to the 16th century and overlooks the picturesque Lapad Bay.
4. Nørrebro, Copenhagen
Few neighborhoods are as cool as Norrebro. It has great food spots, trendy bars, unique art galleries, and loads of quirky vintage stores.
Explore the neighborhood from the water by renting one of the swan pedalo boats you can get at Queen Louise’s Bridge.
Check out St Hans Tov, the area’s most vibrant square. It’s the perfect place to come if you want to people-watch over a cocktail.
Wander through the sculptures and art displays at Superkilen Park. Though the park is a hotspot for quirky art, it’s worth noting that there is cool street art all over Norrebro – so keep your eyes pierced!
3. Gracia, Barcelona
You can’t visit Gracia without going to Park Guell. It’s by no means off the beaten track, but this iconic park designed by local architect Antoni Gaudi is extraordinary. Wander through fairy-tale-like buildings and sculptures decorated in detailed mosaics and take awesome cityscape pictures!
Stop for a drink at the Plaza del Sol, the heart of Gracia. Riddled with outdoor bars and restaurants, it’s a hub for locals and tourists alike.
Then admire the famous Casa Ramos building, a modernist masterpiece built by Jaume Torres in 1907. Fancy a party? Then visit during the neighborhood’s annual festival, Festa Major de Gracia.
2. Jordaan, Amsterdam
Jordaan is a colourful neighborhood in Amsterdam that is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Wander over endless bridges as you weave through the maze of streets that run along the canalways.
Visit the famous Anne Frank House, where Anne and her family hid during World War II. You can learn more about the Holocaust and their lives at the museum.
Next, head to Noordermarkt, a lively square that hosts a local farmers market on a Sunday. If you want the best views of the neighborhood, climb to the top of Westerkerk church’s bell tower.
1. Trastevere, Rome
Whilst the rest of Rome feels rushed and busy, Trastevere is slower-paced and offers a glimpse into the city’s old way of life. Hanging washing lines decorate the streets, and locals sit and sip their coffees in the sun.
Weave through the narrow streets to the Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the oldest churches in Rome. Its history dates back to the 3rd century and it is surrounded by a quaint plaza.
Admire the frescoes that decorate the old Renaissance Villa Farnesina, the former home of a wealthy banker. Soak in panoramic views of the city on the top of Janiculum Hill, where the Baroque Fontana dell’Acqua Paola fountain is.
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