People from all over the world travel to Europe to soak in its rich culture. While Europe’s popular spots can get extremely crowded during the summer, there’s a good reason why everyone flocks there. Think of dreamy architecture, towering cathedrals, and amazing cultural venues. A study by the global luggage storage provider Slasher has identified the top cultural destinations in Europe. Here are the top four:
4. Milan
Milan is the fourth most cultural destination in Europe and the top spot in Italy, even ranking above Rome in every category of the Slasher study. The city is highly rated for its film and media sites, comedy and entertainment venues, and parks and recreational spaces. Must-see cultural attractions in Milan include the Duomo di Milano, the city’s most important landmark, da Vinci’s famous mural of The Last Supper, and the Triennale di Milano, a museum of art and design in Parco Sempione. For art lovers, Milan is a must-visit city in Europe.
3. Amsterdam
Amsterdam, despite being famously overcrowded in the summer, is the third most cultural city in Europe. The city boasts the highest number of live performance spaces in Europe and has 94 cultural sites per 100,000 residents, the second highest in Europe. Cultural highlights in Amsterdam include The Rembrandt House Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the city’s canals, which are a great way to see the city if you’re short on time. Amsterdam is also one of the most child-friendly European capitals, with beautiful urban parks, fascinating canal cruises, and child-focused museums.
2. Barcelona
Barcelona is the second most cultural destination in Europe this summer. While the city can be hot and sticky in the summer, it can also be one of the quietest times to explore if you go off the beaten track. Many locals leave the city during the summer, leaving the streets empty and local shops and restaurants closed. Top cultural attractions in Barcelona include Park Güell, the Picasso Museum, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, and Gaudi’s Sagrada Família, which is set for completion in 2026 but is still an amazing place to visit now.
1. Paris
It’s no surprise that Paris is Europe’s most popular cultural destination. Known as the City of Light, Paris has inspired countless novels, films, and other creative works. This summer, Paris is hosting the Olympics, but there’s plenty to do if sports aren’t your thing. The city has the highest number of parks and recreational spaces per 100,000 people in Europe, with 1,238 green spaces to explore. Paris also ranks highly for its number of live performance spaces. Iconic attractions include the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais des Champs-Élysées, the Petit Palace, and The Hôtel des Invalides, which is particularly fascinating for those interested in military history. My favorite cultural attraction in Paris is the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, with its imposing exterior and captivating art inside.