Europe is a world on its own. It has so many cultures and an aging history that anyone visiting this continent can get lost and may never want to leave. Its capital cities are popular and well known throughout the world. Though many would argue capital cities are like a country in their own right, this does not make them any less spectacular. In fact they are often overflowing with culture, history, life and beauty. Here are five popular but still must-see capital cities from Europe that you need to add to your wish list immediately.

Madrid, Spain

Elegant and unique, Madrid is a city that will have you feel like you’re on a high-end vacation. With beautiful scenery all around, and parks and trees decorating the city and its avenues, Madrid is a Spanish dream. Make sure you visit the wonderful Prado art museum and scenic Royal Palace. For sure a capital worth traveling to, know that you’re in for a fun treat, delicious food and beautiful weather.

Rome, Italy

The land of everything delicious, great weather, and monuments galore, Rome has got to be the first on your wish list. You can see and do so much that organizing your days before you get there is recommended. There are so many amazing things to admire just by walking through the streets there is history absolutely everywhere! Keep in mind that for the main ticketed attractions you might find queues so it’s a good idea to use a company like Musement to pre-book your tickets for the Vatican Museums to speed up your entry.

Paris, France

Known as the “City of Lights and Love”, Paris is a trip that is perfect for every type of traveler. With many sights to see, streets to walk down, and neighborhoods to visit, it’s a place that will keep you busy. Also, if you’re growing hungry during the afternoon and are looking for a quick snack, stop and taste one of the delicious Macarons. Of course, French cuisine is world famous so splurge out on at least one high quality meal in a restaurant.

 Berlin, Germany

Germany’s largest city, Berlin is a fast-growing capital in terms of tourism and attractions. Very multicultural and diverse, the city boasts a youth scene that is envied by many. In fact, Berlin is fast becoming the main destination among young travelers and tourists looking for an entertaining vacation. Make sure you also visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate and of course, the Berlin Wall! Art and creativity can be found on every corner of this fantastic city.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Home to bicycles, canals, and waffles, Amsterdam is a city that will keep you coming back to it. Clean, organized and most definitely fun, the “Dam” is a capital that will make your trip worthwhile. Lay out in one of the many parks around the city or explore the beautiful little streets, canals and world famous museums.

By all means, don’t only visit the capitals, but spend some time there before heading into the lesser known cities. Europe is connected by trains and planes that make going from one city to the next easy and fast, so don’t be afraid of hopping onto any means of transportation and seeing where it takes you. Get going and start your adventure!

** Disclosure: this is a guest post by Emily Jones