European Capitals, Ranked
/granite-web-prod/b0/ea/b0ea7796b60545d79641f794d29174c4.jpeg)
Every country will argue that its capital city is the best of the best (as they should!). Yes, tourism numbers may show favorites based on popularity, but does that mean the most-visited capital cities are the best? Absolutely not.
Far & Wide did take tourism numbers into account, but we also took a different approach by analyzing each European capital based on healthcare index, crime rates and average hotel prices. Of course, we also had to factor in our own opinions as well as tourism numbers to determine which ones were the best and which ones, well, simply weren't.
So, which capitals came out on top? Here are 47 European capitals, ranked from worst to first.
*Due to size and unreliable datasets, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City were left off this list.
47. Kyiv, Ukraine
/granite-web-prod/3c/34/3c341afd2b8943f38a2730c7330e9e6a.jpeg)
Population: Unknown (due to mass exodus because of the war)
Crime Index: N/A
Health Rating: N/A
Average Hotel Night: N/A
*Population numbers come from the World Population Review. 2022 Crime and healthcare indexes are from Numeo and average hotel prices were calculated using Budget Your Trip.
**Note: Given the ongoing Russian attack on Ukraine, statistics are unavailable.
How Kyiv Compares
/granite-web-prod/28/ce/28ce806e020b421f8f529034d20fbb88.jpeg)
The Slavic nation of Ukraine was held under Soviet rule until 1991, and poor Ukraine has spent decades creating its own name following independence.
Sadly, since 2022, the country has been under constant bombings and attacks from Russia. At the moment, travelers cannot visit Kyiv or other parts of Ukraine.
46. Moscow, Russia
/granite-web-prod/fe/08/fe089edc063b4992a474bfd9360f39fc.jpeg)
Population: 10.4 million
Crime Index: 37.7
Health Rating: 66.0
Average Hotel Night: N/A
*Note: Given the ongoing Russian attack on Ukraine, hotel prices are unavailable.
How Moscow Compares
/granite-web-prod/a1/9d/a19d2d21c8474197bcdc6e22b6c42b4d.jpeg)
Unfortunately, Russian crime has a long history and might be a reason (along with politics) for tourists not visiting this capital city as much as others on this list.
Europe's largest city is not considered a health-conscious one either. Maybe the 72.2 annual snowfall days (versus 25.3 in New York) keep people indoors with extra vodka and borscht?
Yet Moscow has such a unique history that it's hard to pass up learning more about its past of Czars, Soviets and struggles to be a dominant world force. Its Red Square alone is something out of a fairytale.
But because of the conflict with Ukraine, Moscow is currently off-limits to most travelers.
45. Baku, Azerbaijan
/granite-web-prod/34/ba/34ba7697bc9e4bf098372dd0fbee18b6.jpeg)
Population: 1.1 million
Crime Index: 30.53
Health Rating: 47.33
Average Hotel Night: $93
How Baku Compares
/granite-web-prod/ca/0c/ca0c851b0c0b47bfb8187bca69b2e704.jpeg)
The least healthy of the European capitals, Baku can be found on the Caspian Sea and is considered a Eurasian city.
Founded before the 5th century A.D., the city was walled during the Middle Ages and retains its fortress walls to this day.
As old as it may be, it has yet to learn the ways of cleaner air, sustainability and better living.
44. Ankara, Turkey
/granite-web-prod/f2/cd/f2cda4d7f9404cf4973e6a14a04f44de.jpeg)
Population: 3.5 million
Crime Index: 38.97
Health Rating: 69.03
Average Hotel Night: $33
How Ankara Compares
/granite-web-prod/14/36/1436ad3331964567a61627bff5d862fa.jpeg)
Dare we say it, but the only good thing about Turkey's capital city (no, it's not Istanbul) is the low cost of accommodations for visitors.
Ankara is enveloped in air pollution that has cost the city $1.2 billion in previous years — highly unhealthy.
A 2016 bombing and threat of other terrorist attacks along with terrorist refugees finding home across its borders leave the city less than desirable when it comes to traveling this Eurasian destination.
43. Tirana, Albania
/granite-web-prod/a5/6c/a56c1a39e5a6443bb9acdd829a529781.jpeg)
Population: 576,588
Crime Index: 43.9
Health Rating: 47.6
Average Hotel Night: $44
How Tirana Compares
/granite-web-prod/5c/17/5c178a6f520348f8acdf081c32ba41b9.jpeg)
This picture says a thousand words. Pollution is the downfall of Tirana, as it's one of the most-polluted cities in the world in terms of air quality. Just a bit of clean up, and more people may want to discover Albania's good side.
And that happens to be hotels averaging only about $44 per night. This is one affordable city.
In fact, this is actually a good spot for millennial travelers seeking new experiences, friendly people and a nightlife rivaling Las Vegas — of which Tirana offers in spades.
42. Chisinau, Moldova
/granite-web-prod/30/af/30af1fc73e3d4775b17bfce13e884544.jpeg)
Population: 635,994
Crime Index: 44.8
Health Rating: 51.22
Average Hotel Night: $54
How Chisinau Compares
/granite-web-prod/fc/c3/fcc35b3963fd4031ab91dacc7e1b6b60.jpeg)
An Eastern European city that broke free of Soviet rule is Chisinau, found between Romania and Ukraine. Formerly a part of Romania, Moldova (dating back to 1346) is trying to build a name for itself and grow from an agricultural nation.
Alas, organized crime, corruption and human trafficking here are high. While that's likely due to this being a newer country struggling to grow, we're going to keep this one off the bucket list until things settle a bit more.
41. Minsk, Belarus
/granite-web-prod/81/63/81634918ed7141d2bdeb7f3096abea81.jpeg)
Population: 1.7 million
Crime Index: 59.8
Health Rating: 48.6
Average Hotel Night: $82
How Minsk Compares
/granite-web-prod/d8/c9/d8c9c1c2d4b5491cac2a28d22b81c289.jpeg)
WHO once found Belarus one of the top three countries for air pollution — yikes!
Nearly 80 percent of the city was destroyed during WWII, so much of it was rebuilt under Soviet rule. While this means exploring a city of concrete, the mid-century stylings are extraordinary and provide a much-needed break from other European city looks.
40. Nicosia, Cyprus
/granite-web-prod/a8/5b/a85b0dea93814518b9b4cd469a9198f3.jpeg)
Population: 200,452
Crime Index: 30.78
Health Index: 55.13
Average Hotel Night: $75
How Nicosia Compares
/granite-web-prod/1a/b2/1ab287c1787344b283f6cdb1b45ce099.jpeg)
What disappoints the people of Nicosia the most is the city's lack of green space and parks. Outside the city? Yes, there's tons of green space. But inside its boundaries? Your best chance of finding green space to enjoy is along the Pedieos River, the island nation's longest river.
And it's not often you can find a divided city, where literally walls and checkpoints are found separating the Greek and Turkish sides. This alone can be a bit disconcerting for visitors.
Still, you can learn about the cultural differences as well as Cyprus' long, rich history. Archaeological evidence of its Bronze Age past is on display in the city's several museums.
39. Vilnius, Lithuania
/granite-web-prod/fd/c1/fdc1ef1ede7f40258d745b3501b37c71.jpeg)
Population: 542,366
Crime Index: 27.3
Health Rating: 74.7
Average Hotel Night: $50
How Vilnius Compares
/granite-web-prod/bc/70/bc70b5fbe1904e0180d6fb4472ca10a8.jpeg)
The main reason Lithuania's capital is so low on this list is that people simply don't visit it. And that's a shame because its crime rate is low, its health index is good, and the hotel prices are average.
Filled with baroque architecture lining cobbled streets in Old Town, Vilnius blends its medieval past with its modern future and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That said, as far as Eastern European capitals go, it's a bit boring. Its Uzupis neighborhood, for instance, is supposed to be the city's bohemian hub, but it seems to be more residential than alternative. We'd rather go to Riga or Tallinn instead.
38. Amsterdam, Netherlands
/granite-web-prod/17/54/1754a0daca1e43b58d0d1c6df5a23e6e.jpeg)
Population: 741,636
Crime Index: 33.6
Health Rating: 77.2
Average Hotel Night: $131
How Amsterdam Compares
/granite-web-prod/43/e1/43e1aa34e2be4ca9b8d8b4c622875f49.jpeg)
Shocked to see Amsterdam so low on the list?
Well, we think it's kind of the Las Vegas of Europe. This is where stag and hen (bachelor and bachelorette) parties come for all-hour fun, and the youth of the world can be found celebrating into the wee hours. (Sorry, Amsterdam, your Red Light District and coffee shops are notorious, and not in a good way.)
The combination means hotel prices soar, and thefts are common.
But Amsterdam is only to blame for allowing the revelry. The residents are actually very healthy, biking for transportation and enjoying its immense Vondelpark. They are also cultured and friendly ... until you stumble out of a nightclub at 4 a.m. heaving.
37. Athens, Greece
/granite-web-prod/6a/65/6a657c7f2d6f41e38288470f7bad3953.jpeg)
Population: 664,046
Crime Index: 55.9
Health Rating: 56.5
Average Hotel Night: $69
How Athens Compares
/granite-web-prod/8b/3f/8b3f28c114234f4ea1fffd3320c76f63.jpeg)
Ask anyone who has visited Greece what they think of its capital city and collectively you will hear "hot," "dirty" and "just spend one day."
Of course, everyone wants to visit the Parthenon, the remaining ruins of the Greek Empire that dates back to the 400s B.C., but travelers find anywhere outside of Athens to be more beautiful to visit.
The health and crime rates align with the mention of smog and pickpockets. Get in and get out, as your friends will tell you.
36. Warsaw, Poland
/granite-web-prod/89/4b/894bd044d63e4a60996bfcd712cacda5.jpeg)
Population: 1.7 million
Crime Index: 26.2
Health Rating: 59.7
Average Hotel Night: $49
How Warsaw Compares
/granite-web-prod/e5/bc/e5bc56163d6540fd92a57c646a9815af.jpeg)
The Polish capital of Warsaw are coal-burning, which combines with auto pollution to fill the sky with smog.
That's rather unfortunate for a city that was almost entirely wiped out during WWII and was brought back from the brink. Warsaw rebuilt itself to become a beautiful city once again, filled with parks and offering a charming old town.
If it works harder on its pollution, it could eventually become one of the best European capital cities.
35. Cardiff, Wales
/granite-web-prod/53/91/5391a8e8e2ec4cb391f582cad82131b8.jpeg)
Population: 447,287
Crime Index: 37.4
Health Rating: 70.95
Average Hotel Night: $83
How Cardiff Compares
/granite-web-prod/55/92/5592da47dec04e8dbdce7ae46723aa7c.jpeg)
Cardiff doesn't have surprising numbers but then again doesn't have the same number of visitors as its United Kingdom countrymen. It's just sort of there, which means we all seem to forget about it. But should we?
Known as the City of Arcades, Cardiff has Victorian, Edwardian and modern shopping arcades — more than any other U.K. country.
It's also a sporty city, home to world-class cricket, tennis and soccer (football). We'll let you be the judge.
34. Skopje, North Macedonia
/granite-web-prod/a9/32/a9323e113db24df09b26b3c64b702c24.jpeg)
Population: 474,889
Crime Index: 47.1
Health Rating: 54.4
Average Hotel Night: $41
How Skopje Compares
/granite-web-prod/58/68/5868310970df46f1946d7f5567d069b0.jpeg)
It may not be a city you have heard of or even learned about in geography classes, but North Macedonia's capital city is definitely worthy of your attention, despite the dismal tourism numbers that earned it a lower ranking on this list.
Skopje has some of the healthiest people and has the cheapest of all capitals' hotel rates — averaging $41 per night.
Dating back to 4000 B.C., it features the remains from its original settlements that neighbor its modern-day architecture. Venture into the mountains aboard a gondola to take in amazing views of this small landlocked nation.
33. Bratislava, Slovakia
/granite-web-prod/37/e5/37e5affdd3694fc9b31182240c2be961.jpeg)
Population: 423,737
Crime Index: 30.3
Health Rating: 56.1
Average Hotel Night: $64
How Bratislava Compares
/granite-web-prod/4e/06/4e0618939a5a4b82a8fee40a591652be.jpeg)
Another city that we wish could rank higher is Bratislava, but tourism numbers keep this one low on the list as well.
American travelers who discover the beauty of Bratislava often do so by river cruise, traveling along the Danube and consider this a stop between bigger and better cities. But then the surprise sets in.
Not only is the 13th-century city home to a castle and a pedestrian Old Town lined with cafes, restaurants and shops, but it is also extremely cheap. You'll find hotel rooms for under $65 and dine out for less than $10.
32. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
/granite-web-prod/12/f8/12f8ddc0051b4b3eb0b955917df693a7.jpeg)
Population: 76,684
Crime Index: 29.7
Health Rating: 79.0
Average Hotel Night: $107
How Luxembourg City Compares
/granite-web-prod/e9/96/e9961c644bb9454d866b7ebd2a82edf5.jpeg)
Some feel Luxembourg City is Luxembourg, which is not the case. Although the country is just 998 square miles in size, its capital city is only a fraction at nearly 20 square miles.
We are surprised by its higher health numbers that indicate it's not that healthy. We find the city to be clean, the food incorporating nearby French and German cuisine to be delicious, and its medieval fortress to be a worthy stop.
The only true complaint? It can be a bit pricey.
31. Podgorica, Montenegro
/granite-web-prod/e9/e8/e9e862693c3d451db9bbc2d8eaeb63c4.jpeg)
Population: 136,473
Crime Index: 48.4
Health Rating: 42.10
Average Hotel Night: $47
How Podgorica Compares
/granite-web-prod/4a/75/4a7581b096b249aaa6a634bcd2ef13ff.jpeg)
Never heard of Podgorica? It's about time you do.
Montenegro's Adriatic Sea coastline is not only as beautiful — if not more stunning than neighboring Croatia's — but the nation and its capital are also cheaper and cleaner.
This is a safe, healthy and affordable city to visit that is off-the-beaten-path. Watch out world, Podgorica is ready to show what it's got (even if no one's heard of it)!
30. Reykjavik, Iceland
/granite-web-prod/85/4f/854f9aafc2024e9b99b20d16b6151fca.jpeg)
Population: 118,918
Crime Index: 21.8
Health Rating: 68.1
Average Hotel Night: $131
How Reykjavik Compares
/granite-web-prod/a6/65/a665872850a3431c975a2fd18c6af04b.jpeg)
You will smile as you take in the beauty of Reykjavik's black-rock surroundings, especially when you take a dip in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
But you won't be smiling at the expense of a trip to this capital city, which features one of the highest average nightly hotel rate for Europe at $131.
Those high fees carry over into restaurants and shops. It is not a cheap island to visit even if discount carriers are bringing you there for less than other European nations.
29. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
/granite-web-prod/4e/04/4e0405daf1544172b0a98890f45973e9.jpeg)
Population: 696,731
Crime Index: 44.5
Health Rating: 58.9
Average Hotel Night: $46
How Sarajevo Compares
/granite-web-prod/c7/6d/c76dcc0a82e34d95b15da357edd264a3.jpeg)
This capital war-torn from its battles in 1991 features a quaint old town and has more a village vibe than that of a capital city.
You're so close, Sarajevo, to shaking off the bad memories and making more people aware of your beauty — that is if it wasn't for your quick rebuilding.
You see, Sarajevo has been building such tall structures that polluted air has become trapped. Just a little more focus on green space, and you could really be a real charmer.
28. Madrid, Spain
/granite-web-prod/7a/e6/7ae63de5649b408aa39ae36e06fff24e.jpeg)
Population: 3.3 million
Crime Index: 29.7
Health Rating: 29.7
Average Hotel Night: $89
How Madrid Compares
/granite-web-prod/65/bf/65bfe9299fa24846aaf63659c4f96c19.jpeg)
Beautiful sunsets like these come at a price. In order to get the display of colors, pollutants often fill the air.
And that's certainly the case in Madrid, where pollution from automobiles is the driver of its dirty air. However, city officials have been working on lowering it, and it is improving.
This means that, in just a few more years, the city of flamenco, tapas, bullfighting, art and passion could drop into the top 20 best capital cities in Europe. But not quite yet.
27. Berlin, Germany
/granite-web-prod/a8/c8/a8c89e3173a1435ca4541322a7764732.jpeg)
Population: 3.4 million
Crime Index: 42.0
Health Rating: 68.3
Average Hotel Night: $82
How Berlin Compares
/granite-web-prod/34/5c/345cbcffa1ab4c538cc315645c4b3f75.jpeg)
What keeps this one lower on the list is its crime number, but, honestly, the biggest crime issue in the city deals with narcotics. The city is actually very safe, with no specific areas that tourists should avoid.
Berlin should also have a higher standing due to its health rating. Chalk it up to nearly 2,500 public parks — one of the highest concentrations within a city worldwide. Whichever will you choose when you visit?
26. Rome, Italy
/granite-web-prod/84/b8/84b88af467ab4447ba4e3862cae4d1eb.jpeg)
Population: 2.3 million
Crime Index: 53.2
Health Rating: 61.4
Average Hotel Night: $99
How Rome Compares
/granite-web-prod/6c/a2/6ca2b51fa4ea4ec3b83952f4af02be11.jpeg)
Oh, Rome, alas, your health and crime indexes are too high to move you up in our rankings. What a shame.
We won't blame the pasta-eating but rather the heavy traffic, smog and uncleanliness that can be a jolt to new visitors, especially when coming from other areas of Italy, where the air is clean, parks are available at every turn and foods are harvested fresh from nearby sources.
But how can one slight Rome when it has such a long and storied world history, evident in its ruins found around the great city?
25. Sofia, Bulgaria
/granite-web-prod/a7/f7/a7f7e928d5d845c58feaba30122820b5.jpeg)
Population: 1.2 million
Crime Index: 42.5
Health Rating: 57.4
Average Hotel Night: $45
How Sofia Compares
/granite-web-prod/7e/43/7e439fb7b86744f29184fb294b603a96.jpeg)
This Balkan capital has been around for more than 2,000 years, but sadly, it is known for being one of the most-polluted capitals in Europe. They say the air is so filthy that, if you hang a white shirt out to dry, it will yellow.
Eew.
If the city can clean itself up, perhaps more people would be interested in its cultural offerings like the opera and ballet? Hotels are cheaper than most capitals in Europe, and with 2,000 years of history, Sofia has a lot to offer.
24. Dublin, Ireland
/granite-web-prod/d4/a2/d4a293f066924ec88a3469bafcdf88d1.jpeg)
Population: 1 million
Crime Index: 51.7
Health Rating: 51.3
Average Hotel Night: $121
How Dublin Compares
/granite-web-prod/92/d5/92d529663ed6418b95784231889289ad.jpeg)
Dublin and really all of Ireland are popular among visitors, especially Americans of Irish descent aiming to learn about their family roots.
Dublin is a mix of old and new — cobbled streets, historic universities and churches, upscale shops and fine dining — and compared to London is a bit like Boston versus New York City. It's a fantastic spot ... and don't they know it!
Charging an average of more than $120 per night on lodgings is highway robbery. Couple that with a higher crime rate, much of it theft, and we have no choice but to place Dublin lower on this list.
23. Belgrade, Serbia
/granite-web-prod/02/39/023903a2717e4d7ca660fccd0137ebe8.jpeg)
Population: 1.3 million
Crime Index: 38.1
Health Rating: 53.0
Average Hotel Night: $50
How Belgrade Compares
/granite-web-prod/5f/84/5f8414856baa473284c927e7817c9b61.jpeg)
Eastern European countries once under Soviet rule have a recurring theme: pollution.
Formerly a part of Yugoslavia, Serbia did not become an independent republic until 2006. While its capital of Belgrade faces issues with pollution and organized crime, it's turned into quite a creative hub in recent years, earning it recognition as one of the five most creative cities in the world by the BBC.
Plus, its gorgeous fortress, temples and parks combined with a vibrant nightlife scene are all reasons this capital fares well on this ranking.
22. Tbilisi, Georgia
/granite-web-prod/d6/b1/d6b10e1cc82a47aeb052fe4da69072ed.jpeg)
Population: 1.1 million
Crime Index: 25.79
Health Rating: 54.18
Average Hotel Night: $26
How Tbilisi Compares
/granite-web-prod/4f/2a/4f2a92e5c9af444eac697ed05305751c.jpeg)
Low crime and good prices get Georgia in the Top 25 on our list. Alas, its health score is fairly, so Tbilisi couldn't break into the Top 20.
Like many other Eurasian countries on this list, Georgia was under Soviet control until gaining independence in 1991. Its stronger system keeps the crime rates down, and visitors can feel safe when exploring its old fortress and Shota Rustaveli Avenue, the shopping highlight of the city.
Now, it just needs to work on pollution and a healthier environment.
21. Belfast, North Ireland
/granite-web-prod/02/69/02699ab0190943cd94854a9a902cb309.jpeg)
Population: 274,770
Crime Index: 44.0
Health Rating: 71.9
Average Hotel Night: $108
How Belfast Compares
/granite-web-prod/ff/3c/ff3c73ac350f4ce5b244087ce5baafd7.jpeg)
Shh! Don't tell the Irish of Dublin that Belfast in Northern Ireland is the better city. Far cheaper and smaller than its neighboring capital, Belfast gives you more bang for your buck on the Irish Isle.
You'll enjoy the pubs, the Irish sessions (live music), quaint architecture, cobbled streets and the Celtic friendliness without the crowds and price gauging.
While Belfast gets a bad rap for its politics and its "troubles," it's perfectly safe if you shy away from some areas (West Belfast, for example) after dark.
20. Copenhagen, Denmark
/granite-web-prod/92/56/9256043b4c3f4cc6a2947c85405abf58.jpeg)
Population: 1.2 million
Crime Index: 27.3
Health Rating: 77.1
Average Hotel Night: $101
How Copenhagen Compares
/granite-web-prod/bc/38/bc382f9ea0db41e3855efd3d7d81a932.jpeg)
Not only is Copenhagen a healthy city where bicycles outnumber cars more than 5 to 1, it has been ranked the world's happiest city.
An entryway into Scandinavia, Copenhagen dates back to the 11th century and has some laws in place to keep it looking as beautiful as it is. (Think only white twinkling lights at Christmas, building restrictions to keep skyscrapers to a minimum and a lack of advertorial branding spread across the city.)
This is the city that brought us the world's best restaurant, Noma, which introduced such unique foraging ingredients that people have paid big money to sample various seaweeds and grasses. But with all that charm, you'll also pay big money for a hotel room. Ouch.
19. Riga, Latvia
/granite-web-prod/23/60/2360d438a09b4115b04f2c63d48bb8bf.jpeg)
Population: 742,572
Crime Index: 37.8
Health Rating: 61.0
Average Hotel Night: $58
How Riga Compares
/granite-web-prod/99/27/99275f39a5d74b08a0c4d592f75dd02b.jpeg)
Another Baltic nation experiencing high levels of air pollution, Latvia and its capital city's middle-of-the-road rating is due to its health quality. But it's not horrific.
Its crime rate isn't too bad either. Plus, it gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has had time to work out some of its new-freedom kinks.
A small country not much explored, Latvia attracts travelers looking to explore lesser-known destinations.
18. Edinburgh, Scotland
/granite-web-prod/a9/8a/a98a90363fad456ea0463fbd0bce8cec.jpeg)
Population: 464,990
Crime Index: 30.0
Health Rating: 78.8
Average Hotel Night: $129
How Edinburgh Compares
/granite-web-prod/c1/6c/c16c23ee807042e8a16bd48e15a1522c.jpeg)
Scotland's capital can be expensive, no doubt, but here we have another tale of two cities. While Glasgow may be the larger Scottish city, Edinburgh is gaining speed while maintaining a more town-like vibe.
Its Royal Mile, a mile-long stretch of shops and restaurants leading to its castle on the hill, has been luring visitors since its beginnings in the 13th century. There is so much to see in just this mile that it's easy to forget the entire city has wonderful historic offerings.
But the tourists that crowd this stretch are just too plentiful for thieves to resist. And you better believe that thievery includes hotels raising rates to take advantage of the tourists.
17. London, England
/granite-web-prod/ae/8d/ae8d5f1e4c724bfa8afe746defdd19db.jpeg)
Population: 7.6 million
Crime Index: 53.2
Health Rating: 69.7
Average Hotel Night: $126
How London Compares
/granite-web-prod/64/5a/645aed44551a4b6081ad7b3c3efbbd7e.jpeg)
London is like Dublin with higher crime rates and hotel prices. You could argue that the crime's similar to New York in the U.S., but the truth is many of the cities on this list are metropolises that do a better job at keeping crime low.
Still, what's not to love about London? One of the most oft-visited destinations in Europe is also rich in history — and one shared with Americans who know their ties to England as well as religiously follow the royal family through its weddings, births, breakups and anything Princess Diana related.
London is much more than royalty, however, with arts and entertainment equally a big draw.
16. Zagreb, Croatia
/granite-web-prod/4c/06/4c06ba1d1ac0421d813e6b04d1b059f1.jpeg)
Population: 698,966
Crime Index: 21.4
Health Rating: 64.0
Average Hotel Night: $62
How Zagreb Compares
/granite-web-prod/d8/7a/d87a1fa1ab6842e0b3a795f845d8c7fa.jpeg)
It's the health score that landed Croatia's capital lower in the Top 20, but crime rates are low and hotel prices are pretty good for the nation's largest city.
Croatia has become a hot spot in recent years due to the popularity of the HBO series "Game of Thrones," which was partially filmed along the coast. While more may be drawn to the Adriatic Sea-lined towns, Zagreb is gaining in popularity and definitely worthy of a visit.
Perhaps its health rating will improve, as more pedestrian-friendly areas like Tkalciceva Street and Ban Jelacic Square become more popular, attracting people with charming cafes and shops.
15. Brussels, Belgium
/granite-web-prod/38/1e/381e6df0f25f433cbc214527daa84a8a.jpeg)
Population: 1 million
Crime Index: 51.7
Health Rating: 73.8
Average Hotel Night: $91
How Brussels Compares
/granite-web-prod/a6/a5/a6a54e0254c24a1486c92f7b0a96de8f.jpeg)
Although violent crimes are low in Brussels, it does register quite a lot of petty crimes and burglaries. This isn't something travelers want to hear when visiting.
What earns this city a higher ranking is its affordability compared to neighboring cities. Plus, its historical and architectural landmarks, several of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, are big draws.
And let's not forget its incredible gastronomy scene. Chocolate, fries and beer are just the beginning.
14. Ljubljana, Slovenia
/granite-web-prod/62/5f/625ffc1fb91840cba0303cf2b22e2f5a.jpeg)
Population: 272,220
Crime Index: 21.5
Health Rating: 67.4
Average Hotel Night: $82
How Ljubljana Compares
/granite-web-prod/fc/d2/fcd2066174c140a2a0bbb112a891a9eb.jpeg)
Ljubljana is on the cusp of being discovered, offering a healthy, low-crime capital for tourists to explore.
Slovenia has been actively pursuing tourism, hoping visitors will see how beautiful the 12th century-founded city is. In 2016, it was named European Green Capital for its positive environmental practices, and gazing from its parks and green space onto its red-roofed buildings and fountain-filled squares provides a sense of serenity not found in other crowded capitals.
As the city's secret gets out, we're betting Ljubljana will quickly climb the ranks.
13. Valletta, Malta
/granite-web-prod/99/38/99384c47c4ee49b79ef549914c0d8a9e.jpeg)
Population: 5,730
Crime Index: 36.17
Health Rating: 49.59
Average Hotel Night: $107
How Valletta Compares
/granite-web-prod/4f/b2/4fb2243780c94683a5a91e656b742442.jpeg)
Valletta's downfall is its high cost, though that can be expected from a small island that needs. toimport most things.
Still, it's hard to beat its charm. This walled city has attracted people since the 16th century and still features much of its baroque architecture, especially in its churches. After all, the city was founded by the Roman Catholic Knights of St. John.
12. Lisbon, Portugal
/granite-web-prod/0b/7f/0b7facfdf5ed4179bf1a62abd94d9951.jpeg)
Population: 517,802
Crime Index: 28.9
Health Rating: 73.4
Average Hotel Night: $109
How Lisbon Compares
/granite-web-prod/91/4c/914c69e98d9f48d4ababae3900497cb9.jpeg)
Is Lisbon the cleanest city? Nah. Is theft high? Sure. Is it as pretty as smaller cities and coastal resort towns of Portugal? Maybe not.
But wait! It's still a blossoming tourist destination and has come a long way since its founding as a port and trading city in 1200 B.C. This city is definitely trending, and maybe that's what we love about it.
Plus, it's not at all as crowded as other Western European capitals, which helps keep the costs down a bit.
11. Stockholm, Sweden
/granite-web-prod/86/8f/868fe3faf1d4430dad91f2faf9e72b90.jpeg)
Population: 1.5 million
Crime Index: 46.1
Health Rating: 66.6
Average Hotel Night: $78
How Stockholm Compares
/granite-web-prod/81/70/8170fa497f034acca85bf9d5abfa262c.jpeg)
Stockholm took its once-high pollution and spent half a century improving it. It paid off because WHO considers the Swedish capital to be one of the least polluted. In fact, it was Europe's first "green capital" as awarded by the EU Commission.
Stockholm is also a serious museum-city with more than 100 museums that attract millions of people each year. Its Vasa Museum is particularly popular and highlights the city's maritime history.
Yet, this happy city could be happier if crime rates and costs were down.
10. Helsinki, Finland
/granite-web-prod/b8/b1/b8b1d033d99c40a2bf38a45e59b13f44.jpeg)
Population: 558,457
Crime Index: 25.5
Health Rating: 79.5
Average Hotel Night: $99
How Helsinki Compares
/granite-web-prod/72/46/72464be1c03742f49b30c6d12494752f.jpeg)
Neighboring Finland does a much better job at keeping down crime in its capital city. Crime in Helsinki is half that of Stockholm, with excellent health ratings.
Plus, you can take an overnight ferry from Stockholm to visit (and the city is just an hour from Estonia). And if you thought Sweden was happy, that's nothing compared to Finland, which holds the No. 1 spot as the "Happiest Country in the World."
9. Bucharest, Romania
/granite-web-prod/67/ea/67ea4dcf53db45d3854d998238d9a813.jpeg)
Population: 1.9 million
Crime Index: 27.9
Health Rating: 54.4
Average Hotel Night: $48
How Bucharest Compares
/granite-web-prod/f7/91/f7919f1367764f28aae6c8b9f3a298b8.jpeg)
Another Eastern European nation that hasn't yet caught up on the healthier living concept is Bucharest, which is one of the continent's worst air pollution offenders, with poor air quality cited for killing hundreds of residents every year.
Its cheap accommodations and lower crime rates are what earn it a high spot. Plus, it's a particularly fun place to explore and has been dubbed the "Paris of the East."
You'll find Calea Victoriei servings as the city's Champs-Élysées. This street is definitely lined with great architecture, style and romance.
8. Vienna, Austria
/granite-web-prod/87/6c/876c4a10f9db4755b5fbc1f88546a21c.jpeg)
Population: 1.7 million
Crime Index: 26.5
Health Rating: 78.9
Average Hotel Night: $90
How Vienna Compares
/granite-web-prod/28/10/281023d5b41d4df397d9a59e1b5b733a.jpeg)
Travel writers are often asked to name their favorite places, and there are a lot of surprised faces when Austria is mentioned. But that surprise is likely because many people haven't made it to this Central European country.
Landing in our top 10, Vienna is a healthy, low-crime capital city with decent prices and above-and-beyond attractions.
This was the capital and home to the Hapsburgs, one of the most powerful and wealthy royal families in European history. It is obvious when gazing upon the palaces that remain, and you could dedicate days upon days just to experience them all.
7. Pristina, Kosovo
/granite-web-prod/6b/e7/6be714d9d7dd4879a1927405d891c9cc.jpeg)
Population: 550,000
Crime Index: 32.35
Health Rating: 64.54
Average Hotel Night: $78
How Pristina Compares
/granite-web-prod/0a/e7/0ae7e7fa660e412fbadb9d0a721ae964.jpeg)
Surprised to see Pristina ranked so highly against other capital cities?
Considering its affordable hotels and low crime, you'll almost forget Kosovo's history with genocide in the late 1990s. After more than 20 years, the country is working to regain some love and welcome tourism.
When Kosovo gained its independence from Serbia in 2008, Pristina went from being a small town to the country's headquarters. What it lacks in tourist attractions, it gains in providing a true European setting. Go sit at a cafe, people watch and discover the "Newborn" city.
6. Tallinn, Estonia
/granite-web-prod/c0/b7/c0b70934040f4e02a8b2642bae3c68ce.jpeg)
Population: 394,024
Crime Index: 22.9
Health Rating: 74.9
Average Hotel Night: $63
How Tallinn Compares
/granite-web-prod/89/11/8911732233d84e1583caaf25d0eafdf4.jpeg)
Tallinn's location on the Baltic Sea is separated from Helsinki by 1,500 islands. That's a lot of places in which to sail.
The summer temperatures hover in the 60s, so a day at sea can be nippy but less oppressive than if you spend the day on the Mediterranean. It's more on par with a New England boat day, and, well, who doesn't love New England?
Plus WHO credits Tallinn for having some of the cleanest air in the world. Add low crime to the mix, and you have a genuinely pleasant capital filled with baroque-style museums, cathedrals and town squares.
5. Oslo, Norway
/granite-web-prod/86/c1/86c1571e6fc94c459a5246de7cec732c.jpeg)
Population: 580,000
Crime Index: 34.4
Health Rating: 78.9
Average Hotel Night: $114
How Oslo Compares
/granite-web-prod/82/86/8286bc3dfca34c4ba4782bd2ae2f1a2e.jpeg)
It's understandable that Scandinavia is more expensive than most nations, but it's hard to fathom why Oslo's health score is so high when it seems the happy, outdoor-loving people of the capital lead such an active lifestyle.
Still, it's not entirely Norway's fault. The wind currents moving across the Atlantic and Europe draw pollutants to the air in Oslo.
Norway gained much popularity after Disney introduced "Frozen." Despite being a cartoon, people were drawn to the Land of the Midnight Sun, kicking off adventures into the fjords and hills with a trip to Oslo — and discovering it's better than the cartoon version by a long shot.
4. Budapest, Hungary
/granite-web-prod/fc/5f/fc5fae5775e34131aa87e1604a28eee1.jpeg)
Population: 1.7 million
Crime Index: 35.4
Health Rating: 52.3
Average Hotel Night: $63
How Budapest Compares
/granite-web-prod/a7/cd/a7cdd5e650494405b132a353550c9f35.jpeg)
Stuck behind the Iron Curtain until 1989, Budapest has slowly climbed its way into the hearts of travelers again.
The Danube River's sights like Buda Castle and the ornate architecture of the Parliament Building will give you a taste of what makes the city shine.
And don't be afraid to sample areas of the city's culture like its bath houses and ruin pubs to see why the city is known as the "Heart of Europe."
3. Paris, France
/granite-web-prod/94/a7/94a7d65314e94f86b5f11104eabda033.jpeg)
Population: 2.1 million
Crime Index: 55.0
Health Rating: 78.6
Average Hotel Night: $126
How Paris Compares
/granite-web-prod/b3/e7/b3e7d37057144eb6b75c9b66bf31055e.jpeg)
As the highest-visited city in Europe, pickpockets and thieves cannot help but be drawn to the crowds of unaware tourists, giving Paris a high crime index. Hotel prices are high as well, as it goes with supply and demand.
But, oh, what a magical city Paris is. You have the iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and the Basilica Sacre-Coeur as well as the city's 130 museums. (Yes, there are more than just the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay!)
And the food and wine are so tasty, it's no surprise that more than 40 million people visit annually.
2. Bern, Switzerland
/granite-web-prod/da/5a/da5a1fde4e12428384b920228594560a.jpeg)
Population: 121,631
Crime Index: 18.3
Health Rating: 68.3
Average Hotel Night: $150
How Bern Compares
/granite-web-prod/7a/54/7a5465f03bad4cd2b14e2fbc95e058a8.jpeg)
Dating back to the 12th century, Bern still maintains much of its Middle Age architecture.
Running alongside the city is the Aare River, the mouth of the Rhine River. It's so clean that you can swim, float, kayak and boat in its turquoise hue.
Sure, it's expensive, but the price is worth it for its peacefulness and beauty.
1. Prague, Czechia
/granite-web-prod/a5/ac/a5ac808c948f41d5a5f3119adc2c69fb.jpeg)
Population: 1.2 million
Crime Index: 24.2
Health Rating: 74.5
Average Hotel Night: $63
How Prague Compares
/granite-web-prod/38/42/38426d05f7cd4102b53edc4a88a8dd0c.jpeg)
Nicknamed the "City of a Hundred Spires," the "Golden City" and the "Heart of Europe," Prague is a breathtaking and romantic city, and we agree wholeheartedly with the numbers that land Prague as the best capital in Europe.
Its various neighborhoods, including Old Town, Lesser Town and the Jewish Quarter, are each rich in their own offerings, making Prague a queen of Eastern European cities.
And don't forget to grab a pint of Czech beer and chat with some of the friendliest Europeans around.