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(Last Updated On: 05/11/2022)

The charming old city centers in Europe are a magnificent example of the power of Europe’s history. Quaint little houses, impressive cathedrals in the center of the city, well-preserved palaces, and central squares add to the magic of European cities. the 5 most charming old city centers in Europe have remained intact over the centuries.

The colors, architecture, and legends keep residing and standing in every city. From Prague to Colmar, Europe’s old town centers are totally worth your visit, and at least one long weekend.

 

1. Prague Old City Center, Czech Republic

The charming old city center in Prague is remarkably beautiful. The city center square is quite big, with lovely bistros, cafes, and food market stalls. The square is the perfect place for people-watching, tasting Czech beer, and pickled sausages while waiting for the astronomic clock show. The highlight of the old city center is, of course, the astronomical tower. So don’t be surprised when you see crowds of tourists gathering in the square every round hour.

The special feature of the charming old city center in Prague is beautiful colorful buildings. Baroque style church St. Nicholas and the gothic 14th-century church of Our Lady before Tyn, are not to be missed. The old city center in Prague is also where the Christmas market takes place, and the charming city center transforms into a stunning fairytale.

Nuremberg to Prague Train Prices

Munich to Prague Train Prices

Berlin to Prague Train Prices

Vienna to Prague Train Prices

 

charming old city centers in Prague

 

2. Salzburg, Austria

The charming old city center in Salzburg is exceptionally beautiful and unique. A mix of Italian and German architecture, Middle age to 19th-century styles, create one of the most charming city centers in Europe. Salzburg, also known as Altstadt is a UNESCO world heritage site and a wonderful day-trip from Vienna, accessible by train.

The heart of the old city center in Salzburg is the prince’s old home, the Residenz State of 180 rooms. The Residenz square is where you can enjoy Zalsburg’s beautiful Christmas market, and live music concerts. Also, be sure to wander around the old town center, to the Residenz fountain, Mozart’s childhood home, and Salzburg Cathedral.

The city of Salzburg is located north of the Alpes, with the spires, and domes in the background. A river crosses one of the most well-preserved old towns in Europe adding the post-card views.

Munich to Salzburg Train Prices

Vienna to Salzburg Train Prices

Graz to Salzburg Train Prices

Linz to Salzburg Train Prices

 

 

3. Bruges Old City Center, Belgium

Brugge, or as we all know it Bruges, is another wonderful city with a charming old city center. Once the home of the Vikings, today it is one of Europe’s hidden gems. Bruges’ narrow alleys and cobblestone streets, colored homes, and canals make it a UNESCO heritage site.

When you wander around the old city center in Bruges, you’ll notice little shops that offer beautiful lace. Bruges’ lace is famous around the world, so in addition to bringing lovely pics, lace will be a wonderful souvenir you can bring from Bruges.

Bruges is accessible by public transportation from Brussels, and you can explore the city by carriage, on foot, or by a boat ride. The Markt is a great place to start your journey through the ages, and continue to the remarkable Belfry of Bruges, and Church of Our Lady Bruges. If you want to admire the charming old town center from above, then the Belfry tower offers exceptional views.

Amsterdam to Bruges Train Prices

Brussels to Bruges Train Prices

Antwerp to Bruges Train Prices

Ghent to Bruges Train Prices

 

Bruges Belgium canal and pretty houses

 

4. Colmar, France

The charming old city center of Colmar is one of the loveliest places to visit in Alsace. The old city center is one of the most preserved old city centers in Europe. The houses’ facades have preserved their postcard-like charm and beauty from medieval times, and you can spot early Renaissance elements in the flamboyant architecture.

Colmar is surrounded by vineyards, and characteristically to old town centers, you’ll find the beautiful church Saint-Martin. Another thing not to miss is Little Venice in Colmar, where you’ll find quaint little restaurants, bridges, and canals to explore.

There are plenty of accommodation options in the small city of Colmar, but you can also enjoy the old city center in Colmar, on a day-trip from Strasburg.  The wonderful vineyards are the perfect excuse for a French city break and weekend getaway.

Paris to Colmar Train Prices

Zurich to Colmar Train Prices

Stuttgart to Colmar Train Prices

Luxembourg to Colmar Train Prices

 

colmar old city center in the winter

 

5. Florence Old City Center, Italy

Duomo of Florence, with its tower and Cathedral, rule the old city center of Florence in charm, grandeur, and beauty. The old city center in Florence is one of the 5 most charming and strikingly beautiful in Europe. Your starting point to this UNESCO world heritage site begins Piazza del Duomo to Piazza Della Signoria.

If you are keen on discovering more of Florence, then you should continue to Uffizi Gallery and Boboli Gardens. There’s no better way to learn about the history and culture of a city over the centuries than through art. Florence is a wonderful Italian city, where you can grab a panini, right outside of the Duomo. If you have time, then climb up to the top of the Duomo, for breathtaking views of one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Florence’s old city center is a day-trip from Venice. However, you should dedicate at least 2 full days to exploring the sites and gems of Florence.

Florence to Milan Train Prices

Florence to Venice Train Prices

Milan to Florence Train Prices

Venice to Milan Train Prices

 

Charming Florence Italy

 

If you want to travel back in time to the medieval era and Renaissance, then these 5 old city centers in Europe are the ideal itinerary. Here at Save A Train, we will be happy to help you plan your trip to these most charming old city centers by train.

 

 

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