7 great European capitals

Having travelled extensively through Europe, I can testify the huge amount of history that is now accessible to the traveller / tourist. It's impossible to cover all that information in one page - but the following are six seven capital cities I reckon you must consider when planning a trip to Europe.

  1. The interior of the Colosseo in RomeRome - Rome is one my favorite European destinations - being as rich in history and cultural heritage as it is, it's not hard to see why. The Ancient City, encompassing the Colloseum, the Roman Forum (including Augustus House) as well as Christian history in the Vatican City State, the Catacombs and host to numerous wonderful piazza and museums there's something for everyone in Rome.

  2. Prague - There's something about Prague which makes it a truly special capital. The changes since the fall of Communism are beyond the imagination of anyone who never experienced it but the history is still present and visible. There hasn't been a single architectural style for 1,000 years which isn't still visble somewhere in the Czech capital. Visit off-season if you possibly can to avoid the marauding hoards.

  3. London - London is one of the most important capitals of Europe - politcally, financially and for the tourist / traveller type. Palaces such as Buckingham Palace and Hampton Court, the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London provide only some of the history. Londons West End provides countless dining and theatrical options. World class museums such as the British Museum, Tate Modern, National Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum to name but a few provide a cultural history stretching from the Ancient Egyptian Rosetta Stone to prominent modern day artists.

  4. The Last Judgement on the Berner MünsterBerne - The UNESCO listed Swiss capital of Berne is unjustifiably overlooked by many visitors to Switzerland. The Old Town is home to Switzerlands largest gothic structure in the Berner Münster and Einsteins House. The medieval Old Town of Berne is hugely well preserved with the arcading and what is now under-street level shops furnishing a relaxing ambience on this river peninsula. Visit the Rose Gardens for a fantastic view of the Old Town across the Aare.

  5. Madrid - With Royal Palaces, medieval sites and world class museums, the Spanish capital is regrettably overlooked by visitors on their way to the sunshine of the Costas. Which is a real shame - Madrids Royal past (including a Habsburg past) provides a real insight into Spanish and Castillian history while the Museo del Prado, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza and the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia are home to centuries of Spanish art including Velazquez, Picasso and Dali.

  6. The Hofburg palace in Vienna which is home to the Spanish Riding SchoolVienna - One time capital of the mighty Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna oozes history at every turn. Viennese coffee culture neatly compliments the central Royal Palace of the Hofburg (home to the Spanish Riding School) and St Stephans Cathedral. The summer palace Schönbrunn Palace and the Heuriger add yet more interest for Royal historians and wine lovers alike.

  7. Paris - Allegedly the most romantic of European capitals - an allegation which is lost on me. The grandiose Parisian Boulevards, the Louvre and other Museums and Arc de Triomph and assorted markets, however, are not. Of course, being France sampling a touch of wine and food is a necessity.

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