Condé Nast Traveller has announced its Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, revealing the most beloved cities in Europe. From historic capitals to creative coastal gems, this year’s list highlights the destinations travellers can’t get enough of.
And while Italy and Spain continue to impress, it’s Portugal that truly shines in 2025 — with Lisbon and Porto both ranked among the top 20. Two cities with very different characters, yet both irresistible for their mix of sunshine, culture, and laid-back charm.
Tiny but mighty, Valletta’s honey-coloured streets and shimmering sea views make it a Mediterranean dream.
A city of contrasts — futuristic architecture meets fjords, saunas and endless green.
Elegant, musical, timeless. Vienna’s blend of history, art and coffee culture is pure European perfection.
Scandinavia’s happiest city is all about cycling, design, and that famous Danish hygge.
Vibrant, confident and full of passion. Madrid is alive day and night, with art, tapas, and endless sunshine.
Bavarian charm meets modern sophistication — Munich has a calm energy and cultural richness beyond Oktoberfest.
Why Lisbon is a no-brainer city trip
Lisbon hits that perfect sweet spot between sunshine, culture, and affordability. For anyone planning a vacation in Portugal or a city break in Lisbon, this city checks every box — and then some.
Lisbon is where nostalgia and creativity meet. The sound of fado floats through the narrow streets of Alfama, pastel-coloured buildings glow under golden light, and old trams climb the hills as seagulls circle overhead.
This city has soul — and it wears it proudly.
Lisbon’s nightlife is one of the liveliest in Europe.
Lisbon never really sleeps. It’s a city where you can enjoy a slow morning coffee, and be dancing with locals by midnight.
Lisbon is wonderfully versatile — ideal for both romantic couples and families.
Couples will fall for the city’s charm: golden sunsets, rooftop cocktails, and tram rides through Alfama.
Families love its safety, relaxed rhythm, and easy access to parks and beaches. Kids adore the trams, aquarium, and pastel-coloured tuk-tuks.
Lisbon is evolving fast.
Lisbon is heaven for food lovers — from traditional tascas to modern vegan dining.
One of Lisbon’s biggest bonuses: the beach is right around the corner.
Lisbon feels alive in every sense — bright, soulful, and effortlessly welcoming. It’s a city where families find space to breathe and couples find moments to reconnect.
You don’t just visit Lisbon — you live it.
Spread across 14 islands, Stockholm is a stunning balance of water, nature, and design.
A foodie’s paradise. From pintxos to Michelin stars, every bite in San Sebastián is a celebration.
Where island life meets urban style — beach by day, art and dining by night.
The cradle of the Renaissance still feels like an open-air museum.
Ancient wonders meet modern creativity — and yes, there’s a beach scene too.
History, espresso, and endless charisma. Rome is chaos and beauty in perfect harmony.
The City of Light continues to reinvent itself — cleaner Seine, reopened Grand Palais, and a fresh cultural glow.
Rough-edged but full of heart. Marseille is France’s authentic Mediterranean soul.
A small city with huge nature. From hot springs to waterfalls, Reykjavik is the perfect base for outdoor adventures.
Why Porto is the subtle stunner
Porto is smaller, quieter, and infinitely more intimate than Lisbon — and that’s exactly its charm. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, sip, and smile.
Built on granite hills overlooking the Douro River, Porto’s beauty feels timeless. Tiled façades shimmer in the sun, the air smells of roasted coffee and wine, and the pace of life is blissfully unhurried.
Porto is a wonderful mix of romance and family comfort.
Couples love the riverside walks, wine tastings, and intimate restaurants.
Families appreciate the friendly locals, easy layout, and safe, walkable streets. Kids enjoy the trams, boat rides, and cable cars that glide over the Douro.
Porto’s food is hearty and soulful.
Porto is slow travel at its best. It doesn’t rush to impress — it simply is. A city for writers, dreamers, and families who love authenticity.
Every corner tells a story; every glass of port feels like time slowing down.
Floating palaces, gondolas, and timeless beauty — Venice remains one of the world’s great wonders.
Split by the Danube but united by style. Budapest’s thermal baths and ruin bars make it one of Europe’s most fun capitals.
The City of a Hundred Spires is still a fairy tale — cobbled streets, bridges, and charm at every turn.
Both are perfect for a vacation in Portugal — different rhythms, same warmth.
The Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 prove that Europe’s charm is endless — but Portugal is having its moment.
Lisbon shines with creativity, nightlife and light.
Porto enchants with authenticity, wine and warmth.
Together, they tell the story of a country that’s welcoming, soulful, and utterly unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning a citytrip Lisbon, things to do in Porto, or just your next vacation in Portugal, one thing is certain — you’ll leave with sunshine in your heart and a plan to return.
Millionaires are discovering Portugal: Lisbon and Quinta do Lago on top
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