From Rome to Vienna: The 10 Best Monuments to Visit in Europe Once in Your Life
best 10
Europe is a treasure trove of history, art, and architectural marvels. The continent is home to some of the most breathtaking structures in the world, ranging from grand Baroque palaces to ancient Roman ruins. If you’re planning the ultimate European adventure, here are the 10 must-see landmarks that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
1. Italy's Colosseum, Rome No trip to Europe is complete without standing in the shadow of the mighty Colosseum. Built in 80 AD, this iconic amphitheater once hosted gladiatorial battles, naval reenactments, and public spectacles. Walking through its arches, you can almost hear the roar of 50,000 spectators cheering for their favorite warriors.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunset when the golden light bathes the ancient stones in a magical glow.
2. The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
More than just a Parisian landmark, the Eiffel Tower is a testament to human ingenuity. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair, this iron giant offers panoramic views of the City of Light. Whether you admire it from the Champ de Mars or ascend to its summit, the Eiffel Tower never fails to enchant.
Fun fact: It was supposed to be taken down after 20 years, but it was kept because it was valuable as a radio tower. 3. The Acropolis, Athens, Greece
Perched high above Athens, the Acropolis is the birthplace of Western civilization. The Parthenon, its crowning jewel, was built in honor of the goddess Athena. As you wander among these ancient ruins, you’ll walk in the footsteps of philosophers like Socrates and Plato.
Must-See: The Erechtheion, with its famous Caryatid columns.
4. Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain
Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, is a surreal blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Stone and stained glass depict biblical tales on its towering spires and intricate facades. Though construction began in 1882, it’s still ongoing—proving that great art takes time.
Insider Tip: Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
5. The Tower of London, England
A fortress, a palace, and a prison—the Tower of London has played many roles over its 1,000-year history. Here, you’ll see the dazzling Crown Jewels, hear tales of beheaded queens (like Anne Boleyn), and meet the legendary ravens, whose presence is said to protect the kingdom.
Don’t Miss: The Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tours for fascinating stories.
6. Germany's Neuschwanstein Castle is in Bavaria. This fairy-tale castle inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Built by the eccentric King Ludwig II, Neuschwanstein is a romantic retreat nestled in the Bavarian Alps. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in Europe because of its turrets, frescoes, and expansive mountain views. Best View: From Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) for a postcard-perfect shot.
7. The Vatican City & St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, Italy
The world’s smallest country holds one of its grandest monuments—St. Peter’s Basilica. Michelangelo’s dome and Bernini’s Baldacchino are just a few highlights inside this Renaissance marvel. The Creation of Adam by Michelangelo can be seen in the Sistine Chapel, which is nearby. Key Advice: Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) to enter.
8. The Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic
Lined with Baroque statues and offering stunning views of Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge is a medieval gem. Walking across this 14th-century bridge at dawn, with mist rising from the Vltava River, feels like stepping into a Gothic fairy tale.
Legend: Rubbing the statue of St. John of Nepomuk brings good luck.
9. The Alhambra, Granada, Spain
A Moorish paradise of intricate tilework, serene courtyards, and lush gardens, the Alhambra is Spain’s most visited monument. This palace-fortress complex showcases the height of Islamic art in Europe, with the Nasrid Palaces being the crown jewel.
Booking Essential: Tickets sell out months in advance!
10. Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria
The Habsburgs’ summer residence, Schönbrunn Palace, rivals Versailles in grandeur. It is a window into imperial Austria with its 1,441 rooms, manicured gardens, and the oldest zoo in the world. The Gloriette has great views of Vienna, so don't miss it. Royal Fact: A young Mozart performed here for Empress Maria Theresa.
Final Thoughts
Europe’s monuments are more than just stone and mortar—they are storytellers of empires, revolutions, and artistic genius. Whether you’re marveling at the Colosseum’s ancient might or gazing at Neuschwanstein’s dreamy spires, each of these landmarks offers a unique journey through time.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and set off on a once-in-a-lifetime tour of Europe’s greatest monuments. The past is waiting.
Which of these will you visit first? 🌍✈️
About the Creator
Keep reading
More stories from parves mosharaf and writers in Earth and other communities.
The Enchantment of Korčula: A Tale of "Little Dubrovnik
The Adriatic Sea shimmered under the golden embrace of the setting sun as Luka Maras leaned against the weathered stone wall of Korčula’s old town. The island, often called "Little Dubrovnik" for its medieval charm, was alive with the hum of evening—laughter from waterfront cafés, the distant strum of a klapa choir, and the rhythmic lapping of waves against the ancient harbor.
By parves mosharaf8 months ago in Earth
Time Out Market to Close in Fulton Market
After years of drawing locals and tourists alike to Fulton Market, Time Out Market Chicago is set to close its doors. The popular food hall, known for bringing together some of the city’s best chefs, artisans, and culinary experiences under one roof, has announced that it will cease operations later this year. The closure marks the end of an era for one of Chicago’s most vibrant dining destinations and reflects broader trends in the restaurant and hospitality industry that have reshaped urban dining spaces over the past decade. The Rise of Time Out Market in Fulton Market Time Out Market first opened in Chicago’s Fulton Market District in 2019, quickly gaining a reputation as a destination where visitors could sample some of the city’s most celebrated chefs and street‑food vendors all in one place. The market followed a model that had already been successful in cities like Lisbon and New York: a curated collection of high-quality, chef-driven eateries, communal seating areas, and a lively atmosphere that combined dining with culture and entertainment. Located in a district already famous for its mix of historic meatpacking warehouses and trendy loft conversions, Time Out Market quickly became a hub for both food lovers and tourists seeking an authentic Chicago experience. (timeoutmarket.com) Why the Closure Is Happening While the exact reasons behind the closure are complex, several key factors appear to have contributed: 📉 Shifting Consumer Behavior The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed dining habits, with many customers moving toward delivery, takeout, and smaller neighborhood restaurants rather than large food halls. Even as in-person dining rebounded, some communal spaces struggled to maintain consistent foot traffic. 💰 Operational Costs Maintaining a high-quality, multi-vendor space in Fulton Market comes with significant overhead, from leasing costs to staffing and compliance with city regulations. Rising costs for ingredients, labor, and real estate have challenged profitability. 🌆 Urban Development Trends Fulton Market has evolved rapidly, attracting corporate offices, luxury condos, and boutique hotels. While the area’s growth has been positive for real estate, it has also intensified competition for dining options and raised expectations for commercial spaces, putting additional pressure on large-scale food halls. Impact on Local Vendors and Chefs One of the hallmarks of Time Out Market was its curated roster of local vendors. From acclaimed pastry chefs to innovative street-food vendors, many found a platform at Time Out Market that allowed them to reach a wide audience without the overhead of opening a standalone restaurant. The closure will leave dozens of small business owners seeking new spaces or alternative ways to reach their customers. While some may move to other neighborhoods or pop-up concepts, others may struggle to find affordable options in the city’s increasingly expensive food scene. For food lovers, the market’s closure means the loss of a one-stop destination to sample a variety of Chicago’s culinary talent in a single, vibrant location. The Cultural Significance Time Out Market was more than just a food hall—it was a social and cultural gathering place. Its communal tables encouraged interaction, its events showcased local music and arts, and its central location made it a natural meeting point for tourists and locals alike. For many, it represented the spirit of Chicago’s Fulton Market district: a place where history, innovation, and creativity intersected. Its closure will leave a gap not only in dining options but in the neighborhood’s cultural fabric. Industry Experts Weigh In Analysts note that the closure of Time Out Market is part of a broader trend affecting large-scale food halls across the U.S.. While some continue to thrive, particularly in cities with high tourist traffic or strong corporate sponsorship, others have struggled to adapt to post-pandemic consumer habits. In interviews with hospitality experts, several key points emerged: Adaptability Is Key: Food halls that survive often offer flexible layouts, hybrid dining and retail options, or smaller-footprint satellite locations. Experience Still Matters: While convenience and takeout are important, consumers continue to seek memorable experiences. Large markets must find ways to balance these two priorities. Local Partnerships Help: Collaboration with local businesses, breweries, and cultural institutions can drive consistent traffic and community engagement. What’s Next for Fulton Market? The closure of Time Out Market opens up opportunities for other businesses. Fulton Market remains a hotspot for culinary innovation, with new restaurants, bars, and pop-up venues continuing to open each year. Some industry insiders speculate that the space may be repurposed for smaller, boutique eateries, event spaces, or mixed-use commercial developments that cater to the neighborhood’s evolving demographics. Others believe the closure may inspire new concepts that combine food, culture, and technology in innovative ways. Reflections from Visitors For regular patrons, the news is bittersweet. Many recall their first visits to Time Out Market—sampling different cuisines, sharing tables with strangers, or attending weekend events. Social media posts following the announcement highlighted memories of birthday celebrations, first dates, and casual gatherings, underscoring the market’s role in the city’s social life. “It was our go-to spot for trying new chefs,” one visitor commented. “It’s sad to see it go, but we’re hoping whatever comes next keeps that spirit alive.” Conclusion: The End of an Era, and the Beginning of Something New The closure of Time Out Market in Fulton Market represents the end of a significant chapter in Chicago’s food and cultural scene. While it may be disappointing for fans and vendors alike, it also reflects broader trends shaping urban dining, commercial real estate, and consumer behavior. As the neighborhood continues to grow and evolve, there’s hope that new concepts will emerge, preserving the community-focused, culinary-driven spirit that made Time Out Market special. In the meantime, Chicagoans and visitors alike will treasure the memories and flavors that the market brought to Fulton Market, even as the city’s food scene moves forward into a new chapter.
By Muhammad Hassan4 days ago in Earth
Severe Geomagnetic Storm Could Bring Northern Lights Across Much of the U.S.
On Monday evening, skywatchers from the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest got ready for something out of the ordinary: a celestial display that typically occurs at high northern latitudes. Americans who provide forecasts as a powerful cloud of charged particles from the sun accelerates toward the Earth's magnetic field, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a "G4 (Severe) geomagnetic storm watch."
By Raviha Imranabout an hour ago in Earth
Comments (1)
Europe's got some amazing landmarks. The Colosseum's a must - been there, the history's palpable. The Eiffel Tower is iconic, and the views from it are unbeatable. The Acropolis is like stepping into the past. And the Sagrada Família, even unfinished, is a wonder. What's your favorite out of these?