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Planning a trip to Europe: Which cities should be at the top of my list?

traveleuropevacation planning
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Aleksandar_K
Joined:
17.10.2024
Posts: 238
Topic Starter
16.01.2025 09:40
My partner and I are finally planning a two-week trip to Europe this coming autumn, but we are feeling a bit overwhelmed by how many options there are. We really enjoy a mix of deep history, good food, and walkable neighborhoods rather than just hitting the major tourist traps. Does anyone have recommendations for cities that are still vibrant during the shoulder season? We are trying to keep it to about three or four main stops so we aren't spending our entire vacation on trains. Any advice on hidden gems or places to avoid would be greatly appreciated!
19 replies in this topic
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Yani_Z
Joined:
04.05.2024
Posts: 557
20.01.2025 23:49
Autumn is the absolute best time for Europe. The crowds thin out and the weather is usually perfect for walking.
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gost_nedelq
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07.05.2021
Posts: 2280
27.01.2025 08:57
In reply to a previous post
If you want history and great food without the madness of Paris or Rome, look at Bologna. It's incredibly walkable, the food is legendary, and it's a great hub for day trips.
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Sofiya_G
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08.11.2021
Posts: 1390
05.02.2025 21:44
In reply to a previous post
Bologna is a fantastic suggestion. I second that wholeheartedly.
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Milos_S
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17.07.2024
Posts: 1229
09.03.2025 02:33
Have you considered Prague? It can be touristy, but if you stay in the Vinohrady district, you get a much more local vibe while still being close to the history.
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misho_777
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29.03.2023
Posts: 713
22.03.2025 02:01
In reply to a previous post
I’d steer clear of Venice in the autumn. It’s still quite crowded and the flooding risk starts to increase. Maybe swap that for Ljubljana?
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Ameli_Z
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23.07.2020
Posts: 2267
16.04.2025 15:51
In reply to a previous post
Ljubljana is a hidden gem! It's small, super walkable, and feels like a fairytale. Plus, Lake Bled is only an hour away.
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Niko_N
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18.12.2023
Posts: 1368
17.05.2025 12:59
Don't sleep on Spain. Seville in the autumn is divine-the heat is manageable and the tapas scene is unbeatable.
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Yana_P
Joined:
25.05.2024
Posts: 614
04.06.2025 18:53
In reply to a previous post
Seville is great, but make sure you book the Alcázar tickets well in advance. Even in shoulder season, the main attractions fill up.
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Zuzi_P
Joined:
11.08.2020
Posts: 1511
01.07.2025 02:13
For a mix of history and walkability, Lyon in France is often overlooked. It's the gastronomic capital and much less stressful than Paris.
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iztrit_potrebitel
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03.05.2025
Posts: 360
12.07.2025 14:52
In reply to a previous post
I absolutely loved Lyon. The traboules in the old town are fascinating to explore.
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Fari_P
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10.11.2024
Posts: 1454
22.07.2025 15:48
Honestly, just pick a region and stick to it. Don't try to cross the whole continent or you'll spend all your money on flights.
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monika_p
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23.02.2024
Posts: 656
29.10.2025 11:42
In reply to a previous post
Agreed with the previous poster. Maybe focus on Central Europe? Vienna, Budapest, and Prague are all connected by easy train rides.
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Ekspert_11
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Posts: 1550
30.10.2025 18:38
In reply to a previous post
Budapest is beautiful in October when the leaves turn. The thermal baths are a perfect way to relax after a long day of walking.
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nabludatel_x
Joined:
09.12.2023
Posts: 2124
27.11.2025 23:01
Whatever you do, avoid Amsterdam unless you really love fighting through crowds of stag parties. It's lost a lot of its charm recently.
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lubopiten_k
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13.04.2024
Posts: 212
17.12.2025 17:07
In reply to a previous post
I disagree! If you go to the Jordaan neighborhood, it’s still very quiet and charming. Just avoid the central station area.
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Viktoria_S
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05.11.2024
Posts: 2119
27.01.2026 01:27
Edinburgh is magical in the autumn, though you have to be prepared for the rain. The history there is palpable.
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nabludatel_x
Joined:
05.01.2023
Posts: 362
09.03.2026 20:15
If you want history and food, Porto is a must. It's hilly, but that's what makes the views so incredible.
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gost_nedelq
Joined:
20.01.2024
Posts: 17
10.03.2026 18:54
In reply to a previous post
Definitely add Porto to your list. It feels way more authentic than Lisbon nowadays.
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Alisa_K
Joined:
27.05.2023
Posts: 1747
08.04.2026 10:56
In reply to a previous post
Thanks for all these suggestions! I'm definitely going to look into Bologna and Lyon now.

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