Europe is brimming with incredible cities that blend centuries of history with buzzing modern life. If it’s your first time hopping across the continent, it can feel like being a kid in a sweet shop. So many tempting choices, where do you start? Here’s a handy guide to the best cities in Europe that promise a smashing first-time adventure. Get ready to fall head over heels!

If you’re travelling from Malaysia, choosing the right city in Europe for your very first adventure can make all the difference. The best cities for Malaysians tend to be places that are easy to explore with minimal fuss. You’ll want somewhere with plenty of English signage and friendly locals who are used to welcoming visitors from all over the world, so language barriers won’t slow you down.

European cities that have reliable public transport, halal-friendly dining options, and diverse food scenes also score big points. Many top spots like London, Amsterdam, or Lucerne are wonderfully walkable and safe, letting you soak up the atmosphere at your own pace. Plus, these cities often celebrate multiculturalism, which means you can still find familiar tastes when you’re craving a quick nasi lemak break from all the pasta or pastries.

It all adds up to a smooth, welcoming experience — exactly what you’d want for that exciting first taste of Europe.

The ultimate classic, Paris is practically a rite of passage for European adventures. Picture yourself nibbling on fresh croissants by the Seine, marvelling at the Eiffel Tower, or losing hours inside the Louvre. Don’t just stick to the touristy bits — explore lively neighbourhoods like Le Marais for boutique shopping and the Latin Quarter for quirky bookshops and jazz bars. And if you’re up for a bit of whimsy, Disneyland Paris is just a quick train ride away, perfect for adding a sprinkle of fairy tale magic to your trip.

Paris is surprisingly walkable. Pop on comfy trainers and wander from Notre-Dame to Montmartre with its artists and stunning Sacré-Cœur views.

If you fancy a place that doubles as an open-air museum, Rome is your spot. From the mighty Colosseum to the romantic Spanish Steps, every cobbled street is steeped in history. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for luck!

Foodies will be in heaven. Grab creamy gelato or a plate of carbonara at a rustic trattoria. With Traveloka, it’s easy to pair your flights and hotels in one app — so you’ll have more time to dream about your first bite of real Roman pizza.

Few cities in Europe can match Barcelona’s playful spirit. Gaudí’s whimsical architecture feels like a giant art playground, from the colourful mosaics of Park Güell to the surreal curves of Sagrada Família. Combine that with sunny beaches, bustling markets, and mouth-watering tapas, and you’ve got a winner.

First-timers love how Barcelona balances cultural gems with laid-back coastal vibes. Stay near Las Ramblas to be in the heart of it all, and don’t shy away from late dinners. That’s the Spanish way.

If your dream European city is quaint canals, pretty bridges, and storybook houses, Amsterdam ticks all the boxes. Hop on a bike (like the locals), explore the tulip-lined streets, or take a canal cruise for a fresh perspective. Museums are top-notch here, from the Van Gogh Museum to Anne Frank House. Evenings are perfect for cosy brown cafés or discovering Amsterdam’s indie music scene. 

London is big, bold, and buzzing with life. Sure, it rains a bit, but nothing that a cheeky umbrella can’t handle. First-timers adore the mix of royalty and pop culture: see the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, snap Big Ben selfies, then shop till you drop on Oxford Street.

The city’s green parks are just as lovely. Grab a picnic for Hyde Park or people-watch in colourful Notting Hill. With endless musicals in the West End and historic pubs to unwind in, you’ll find plenty to keep your itinerary packed.

Prague feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Its Old Town Square is framed by Gothic spires and a famous astronomical clock that wows on the hour. Walk over Charles Bridge at sunrise for a magical, crowd-free moment.

Prices here are generally friendlier on the wallet than Western Europe, making it a smart pick for first-timers. Try hearty Czech dishes like goulash or chimney cake and maybe pair it with one of their excellent local beers.

Elegant and refined, Vienna might just be Europe’s most sophisticated city. Picture grand palaces, horse-drawn carriages, and classical music floating through opulent concert halls. Even its cafés are UNESCO-listed, that’s how seriously they take coffee and cake.

Yet Vienna isn’t all old-world glamour. The city is sprinkled with modern art, funky markets, and lively wine taverns. It’s an ideal intro to Europe’s slower, charming side.

Berlin is where history meets edgy cool. See remnants of the Berlin Wall, wander through world-class museums on Museum Island, and then dive into one of the city’s legendary clubs or street food markets. First-timers will appreciate how Berlin blends gritty street art with serene green spaces. It’s a city that wears its past openly yet pulses with youthful creativity.

Budapest offers double the charm, with Buda and Pest sitting on either side of the shimmering Danube. Relax in historic thermal baths, take a sunset river cruise, and be awed by the illuminated Parliament building at night.

It’s another brilliant choice for a first Europe trip, offering luxury at reasonable prices. Wander the ruin pubs, old buildings turned into quirky bars, and discover why travellers keep coming back.

For a first-time trip to Switzerland, Lucerne is a brilliant pick. Set by a sparkling lake with the Alps rising behind it, this city captures everything you’d imagine about Swiss charm. Its medieval Old Town, complete with frescoed buildings and the iconic Chapel Bridge, is perfect for leisurely strolls. Plus, you’re just a short ride from mountain adventures on Mount Pilatus or cruises across Lake Lucerne.

To see more of Switzerland with ease, grab a Swiss Travel Pass. It gives you unlimited rides on trains, buses, and boats, making day trips to places like Interlaken or Geneva a breeze. Sort your hotels and travel activities on Traveloka, and you’ll have the perfect Swiss escape, all ready with just a few taps.

There’s truly no better way to get your European adventure rolling than picking one of these incredible destinations. Each city in Europe on this list promises unforgettable sights, unique cultures, and that special magic that makes travelling here so addictive.

When you’re ready to turn your wanderlust into reality, Traveloka makes it easy. With flights, hotels, experiences, and more all in one seamless app, planning your first European trip couldn’t be simpler. 

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