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Crave inexperienced areas and concrete locations? I’m right here to share the 13 greatest European cities for nature lovers. Get able to pack your luggage!
For those who’re something like me, you most likely crave a little bit of nature even while you’re within the metropolis. Europe is full of locations that allow you to get pleasure from the most effective of each worlds.
I’ve spent a very good chunk of time bouncing from one European metropolis to a different, at all times looking out for these excellent inexperienced areas the place you’ll be able to breathe simple with out lacking out on metropolis perks. It’s fairly wonderful how some cities pull it off!
So, the place must you head if you need leafy retreats as a lot as vigorous streets? This information lays out the highest European cities for nature lovers. Belief me, these locations have mastered the artwork of mixing city pleasure with pure tranquility. Let’s examine them out!
Overview of the most effective locations in Europe for nature lovers
Able to discover a few of Europe’s high spots for nature lovers? Right here’s a fast peek at locations that basically stand out, every with its personal particular attract:
- Greatest for water lovers: Geneva, Switzerland
- Greatest for mountain climbing: Innsbruck, Austria
- Greenest metropolis in Europe: Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Greatest for nature and tradition: Barcelona, Spain
- Most beautiful views: Bergen, Norway
Excited but? Every of those cities is a gateway to distinctive pure wonders, and there’s a lot to see and do. Let’s bounce into our full information and begin exploring!
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana actually stunned me with its allure and the sheer abundance of inexperienced areas. It’s not on daily basis you discover a capital metropolis so dedicated to preserving nature. In truth, it was named the European Inexperienced Capital again in 2016, and it’s simple to see why when you go to.
The town heart is usually car-free, which makes strolling round a pleasure. You possibly can stroll alongside the Ljubljanica River, with its tree-lined banks and vigorous cafes, and really feel fully comfortable. Tivoli Park is one other gem. It’s large, superbly maintained, and an ideal spot for a picnic and even only a lazy day studying below a tree.
For those who’re up for a bit extra journey, the encircling areas provide trails that result in beautiful views of town. A fast favourite of mine is the hike as much as Šmarna Gora. It’s an easy trek and on the high, you’re rewarded with the most effective panoramic views of Ljubljana. Excellent for a morning exercise or a sundown chill!
2. Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to in Europe for anybody who loves mountains as a lot as they love a vibrant metropolis scene. Positioned within the coronary heart of the Alps, this stunning metropolis is a playground for each winter sports activities lovers and summer time hikers.
The very first thing you’ll discover is the beautiful backdrop of snow-capped peaks across the metropolis. It’s not on daily basis you get to sip your morning espresso with such a powerful view!
For a more in-depth look, I like to recommend heading up the Nordkette. It’s accessible by way of a cable automotive that takes you from town heart to the mountain tops in simply 20 minutes. Up there, the panoramic views are mind-blowing. You possibly can see your complete metropolis stretching out under you.
Whereas exploring Innsbruck, you’ll be able to’t assist however really feel the vibes the place old-school allure meets trendy cool, all towards these epic mountain views. Critically, it’s like getting the most effective of each eras in a single look. Belief me, you received’t discover a combo like this simply anyplace.
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is a metropolis which may simply shock you with its pure attract. Certain, it’s recognized for its cool, quirky vibe, however the entry to nature right here is unreal. Whether or not it’s the ocean surrounding you or the mountains only a fast drive away, you’re by no means removed from a surprising pure escape.
One factor that basically stands out is how one can watch the Northern Lights with out venturing too removed from metropolis comforts. Think about chilling in a comfy downtown cafe, then catching the aurora borealis after a brief drive. It’s spectacular!
Additionally, the geothermal swimming pools—just like the well-known Blue Lagoon—will not be solely enjoyable however provide a surreal setting that feels virtually otherworldly.
I really like how Reykjavik appears like a small city however packs a punch with its cultural scene and nature spots. It’s the type of metropolis the place you’ll be able to discover galleries and hip cafes, then, on a whim, swap to whale watching or mountain climbing. For those who love mixing city exploration with wild nature, Reykjavik is a success.
4. Geneva, Switzerland
I first went to Geneva for its polished vibe, but it surely was the beautiful surroundings that basically stole my coronary heart. Tucked between snowy peaks and the beautiful Lake Geneva, this place is an absolute dream for outside lovers.
Strolling alongside the lake, you’re handled to a few of the most breathtaking views in Switzerland. The Jet d’Eau is a sight to behold, capturing water as much as 140 meters into the air. It’s a spectacular backdrop for a stroll or a fast jog.
For those who enterprise a bit additional, you’ll discover Mont Salève, a straightforward day journey by cable automotive. When you’re up there, the panoramic view of town with the Alps within the background is unimaginable.
Geneva can be one of many greatest locations to reside in Europe for nature lovers. The town is simply so alive, inexperienced, and luxurious. Whether or not you’re right here for work or pleasure, it’s exhausting to not be impressed by the seamless mix of metropolis life and nature. It’s undoubtedly a spot the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from high-end metropolis vibes with simple escapes into nature everytime you need.
5. Oslo, Norway
Subsequent up on our listing of the highest European cities for nature lovers is Oslo. What I really like most about Norway’s capital is the way it blends a bustling, artistic city scene with wild nature proper on its doorstep. Critically, you get the most effective of metropolis life with forests, fjords, and parks only a heartbeat away.
Strolling by means of Oslo, you’ll discover how nature is a part of town’s soul. Make a journey to Frogner Park, the most important park within the metropolis, crammed with spectacular sculptures and loads of area to unwind or have a picnic. For a extra adventurous day, you’ll be able to hike in Oslomarka, the huge forest surrounding town. It’s an actual deal with with trails that provide spectacular views of the fjords.
The town critically values its inexperienced areas and you’ll really feel that dedication in all places you go. Whether or not you’re grabbing a espresso downtown or paddling throughout the Oslofjord, the seamless integration of nature with city residing right here is simply superior. This metropolis is admittedly festive, notably throughout December, and it’s additionally one of many high locations to have a good time New Years in Europe.
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik actually knocks it out of the park in case you’re on the lookout for a spot the place historical past and nature collide. It’s not all in regards to the Sport of Thrones fame—there’s one thing genuinely magical about this metropolis with its historical partitions and the limitless blue of the Adriatic Sea.
As you wander the outdated city, each avenue appears like a step again in time, however the true deal with is the pure magnificence. Hop on a fast boat trip to Lokrum Island. It’s this peaceable spot with cool botanical gardens and pleasant peacocks, plus some top-notch locations to swim. Don’t miss the cable automotive trip to Mount Srđ, both. The views up there are unreal!
Dubrovnik is unquestionably top-of-the-line locations in Europe for nature lovers. It blends its wealthy previous with tremendous accessible pure spots. You possibly can wander by means of historical lanes one minute and be lounging by the ocean the following. Dubrovnik simply delivers, each single time!
7. Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland has at all times been certainly one of my favourite nations in Europe, and Zurich stunned me with the way it balances metropolis life and nature. It’s famously polished and cosmopolitan, however its pure settings are simply as spectacular. Assume pristine lakes, rivers, and mountains which can be virtually begging to be explored.
Take Lake Zurich, for instance. It’s proper there, a part of town’s each day life. You possibly can swim, sail, or simply chill by the shores with a very good guide. Then there’s the Uetliberg Mountain—a neighborhood favourite for mountain climbing. The path up is well-marked and the view from the highest? Completely well worth the effort. You get this panoramic scene of your complete metropolis towards the backdrop of the Alps.
I extremely advocate visiting Zurich in case you’re after a metropolis that blends city buzz with simple nature getaways. For those who’re on the lookout for issues to do, strive renting a motorcycle. It’s the proper option to zip round and soak in each town’s vibrant environment and its peaceable lakeside views.
8. Salzburg, Austria
The pure magnificence in Salzburg is spectacular. This metropolis is a feast for the senses, excellent for anybody craving a mix of tradition and nature. It’s one of many greatest locations to go to in Austria, fingers down.
Proper within the metropolis, you’ve bought the Mirabell Gardens. Strolling by means of these meticulously landscaped gardens with the historic palace backdrop appears like stepping right into a portray. For slightly peak, make your option to Kapuzinerberg. It’s a straightforward hike up, and the views over Salzburg are unimaginable—you see town’s baroque towers set towards the rugged Alps.
Salzburg is a high choose for nature lovers. The town is sufficiently small to discover by foot, but it’s full of simple escapes to nature. And if that’s not sufficient, close by Lake Wolfgangsee can be a sight to see!
Simply lace up and let Salzburg’s allure and scenic trails sweep you off your ft. Belief me, being there’s magical—it’s one place that appears pretty much as good because it feels!
9. Bergen, Norway
When you consider locations the place the mountains meet the ocean, Bergen must be on the high of the listing. This metropolis is surrounded by seven hills and fjords. It’s a surprising pure playground for anybody who loves the outside.
Climbing up Mount Fløyen is a must-do. It’s not solely accessible—you’ll be able to stroll from town heart or take a funicular up—however the views from the highest are out of this world. You look out over town, the encircling mountains, and the ocean all weaving collectively into one breathtaking panorama.
The vibe in Bergen is laid-back, and there’s an actual appreciation for the outside. And the close by Norwegian fjords are much more spectacular!
Whether or not you’re kayaking within the fjords or wandering by means of the historic Bryggen district, Bergen makes it simple to mix city exploration with epic pure adventures.
10. Edinburgh, Scotland
Let’s discuss a metropolis that marries historic allure with rugged pure magnificence: Edinburgh. Perched on a collection of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags, the Scottish capital is an adventurer’s dream.
Arthur’s Seat, the primary peak within the metropolis, affords a surprisingly wild hike proper within the coronary heart of Edinburgh. You possibly can climb to the highest for panoramic views that stretch out to the ocean.
The town’s connection to nature doesn’t finish there. The Royal Botanic Backyard Edinburgh is one other spot the place nature bursts into colour, proper subsequent to city life. Right here, you’ll be able to wander by means of 70 acres of lovely landscapes and uncommon vegetation.
For those who’re planning a go to, pack sturdy strolling sneakers and a water-resistant jacket. Edinburgh’s climate can swap up quick! It’s a metropolis that provides nature lovers every thing they might need, proper on the doorstep.
11. Barcelona, Spain
For those who’re after a metropolis that surprises with its pure wonders, Barcelona hits the spot. Tucked between the seashores of the Mediterranean and the hills of Montjuïc, this metropolis is a playground for the outdoorsy sort. You can begin your day with a dawn seaside jog and finish it with a sundown hike, all throughout the metropolis limits.
Montjuïc, a broad hill overlooking the harbor, affords greater than only a killer view. Right here, the luxurious gardens and winding footpaths present a peaceable escape from the thrill of town streets. It’s additionally house to the Magic Fountain, which lights up at evening in a stunning show of colour and water acrobatics.
Getting round Barcelona is a breeze due to its glorious public transport. The metro and buses are handy, however renting a motorcycle is perhaps one of the simplest ways to discover the pure and concrete sights seamlessly. Additionally, don’t overlook to pack comfy strolling sneakers, as Barcelona is greatest skilled on foot.
12. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo is a hidden gem for nature lovers, usually praised as top-of-the-line locations to go in Europe in case you love the outside.
You’ve bought Trebević Mountain proper in your doorstep, and it’s a favourite for locals and guests alike. The hike up is completely value it for the sweeping views of Sarajevo under. It’s wonderful to see town from that perspective, particularly at sundown.
Whilst you’re right here, don’t miss the prospect to discover the encircling forests and trails. They’re lush, inexperienced, and tremendous refreshing. It’s simple to spend a day wandering by means of nature and nonetheless make it again to benefit from the metropolis within the night. One other high place to go to inside driving distance is Travnik, which I extremely advocate!
For those who come to Sarajevo, make certain to take a look at the native path maps. There are a great deal of paths starting from simple walks to more difficult hikes. The town’s mixture of city vibes and pure spots is ideal for anybody who needs to leap shortly from a espresso on the town to a quiet second within the forest.
13. Brasov, Romania
Brasov is an absolute treasure and it wraps up our listing of the most effective cities for nature in Europe. It’s additionally one of many high locations to reside in Romania!
Positioned within the coronary heart of Romania’s Carpathian Mountains, it’s a spot the place the surroundings is as wealthy as its historical past. Assume old-world allure with a backdrop of beautiful mountain views.
You possibly can’t go to Brasov with out exploring Mount Tampa. A cable automotive can whisk you to the highest, or in case you’re up for it, mountain climbing there provides you an actual sense of the panorama. When you’re up, the views over Brasov and the encircling forests are spectacular. It’s additionally widespread to identify wildlife alongside the way in which, so preserve your eyes peeled!
Brasov’s outdated city is ideal for wandering. The streets are compact and stuffed with character. For getting round, the general public buses cowl most areas, however strolling is your greatest wager to soak all of it in. If you wish to discover additional afield, renting a motorcycle is a good choice.
Regularly requested questions (FAQs) about cities for nature lovers in Europe
Interested by the most effective nature cities in Europe? Our FAQs have all of the solutions!
Which European nation has the most effective nature?
Norway is extensively thought-about the most effective nation for nature in Europe. It’s recognized for its beautiful fjords, tall mountains, and lots of waterfalls.
What’s the most outdoorsy nation in Europe?
Switzerland is the best choice for outside actions in Europe. It affords nice snowboarding, mountain climbing, and exquisite pure scenes.
What’s the greenest capital in Europe?
Ljubljana in Slovenia is the greenest capital in Europe. It was awarded for its inexperienced areas and efficient public transport that’s good for the setting.
