There’s no place dreamier than Europe, which is why 3 of the most gorgeous cities on the continent welcomed more visitors than ever in 2025.
As a trio of favorites here at Travel Off Path, we have fallen in love with each and every one of them, whether it be for captivating cultural experiences, jaw-dropping cityscapes that never lose their wow factor, or magical Christmas markets to cap off the year.
As all 3 are year-round getaways and a direct flight from the U.S., 2026 may see even more records shattered given these postcard escapes are too good to pass up.
These 3 gorgeous European cities broke all-time visitor records in 2025 (plus an interactive quiz at the end to find which one is best for your next trip!):
Istanbul, Turkiye 🇹🇷 — Record: 84 Million Passengers
Hey, if you’re going to switch continents, why not kill 2 birds with 1 stone?
I’m a small-brained American, so who knows if that makes sense, but the point is, Istanbul is truly a unicorn destination.
Where else can you start your trip in North America, go to sleep in Europe, and take a short ferry to Asia the next day?
It’s true, Turkiye’s largest metropolis has endless cool things to name but splitting 2 continents within the same city limits is about the coolest aspect if you ask us.
Beaming with Ottoman allure, Istanbul offers both bustling city chaos and seaside serenity all in one place.
This city is highly affordable no matter what you’re into. It’s arguably one of the best solo travel destinations, too, to wander freely and stretch your budget.
Take it from me, as Istanbul instantly became one of my favorite cities. I highly recommend staying at Tom Square Boutique Hotel for a spacious room with a homey feel without draining your bank account.
Of course, Turkish coffee is a must to start your day as is Turkish pizza to cap off your night. Istanbul has become a global hub, so expect to witness a melting pot of cultures as you explore grand mosques and back-alley bazaars that never seem to end.
Americans can be one of a record 84 million flying into Istanbul with 14 direct flight options from the U.S.
Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹 — Record: 32 Million Passengers
We all know Europe and magic go hand in hand — and not in a Criss Angel type of way…
There’s arguably no major city in Europe more magical than Vienna, especially around the holidays.
While you may have missed Vienna’s sprawling festive Christmas markets, there’s always next year.
Plus, you have time to read through thousands of experiences since over 32 million travelers made their way through Vienna in 2025, and it’s safe to say a hefty fraction of those were here to immerse themselves in Christmas cheer via mulled wine and savory sausages, among other sugary treats.
But the truth is, Vienna is a four-season destination.
If winter and Mariah Carey on repeat aren’t your jam, you have 3 other vibrant seasons to choose from to roam Vienna’s storybook streets, grandiose palaces, and baroque showstoppers.
While not the cheapest city, a must any time of year is taking time to enjoy Vienna’s famed cafe culture. Order a melange and watch the world go by in one of Europe’s prettiest destinations.
Making matters even better, Americans can fly nonstop to Vienna from 6 major U.S. airports.
Nuremberg, Germany 🇩🇪 — Record: 4.5 Million Passengers
No longer a “hidden gem” so to speak, Nuremberg is one of Central Europe’s trendiest cities. Of course, Nuremberg lies in the shadow of Munich, a city our whole team has all grown to love.
That said, having just visited Munich’s world-renowned Christmas markets recently, it’s easy to see why more and more travelers are opting for Nuremberg, just an hour or so away, given the thick sea of crowds.
Not to mention, when you have a star-studded cast in a film of the same name, it certainly puts your city on the map…
While home to over half a million residents, Nuremberg oozes small town charm with colorful rows of traditional half-timber houses, fewer crowds even though it’s a record year, and an inviting Old Town wrapped in medieval walls.
Nuremberg holds some impressive Christmas markets too, which surely favored their new record, but come spring and summer, Nuremberg offers lively beer gardens, riverside strolls, and sun-soaked plazas etched in time.
Americans can fly nonstop to Munich from 16 U.S. cities and hop aboard a bus roughly an hour to Nuremberg, which takes less time than many traffic jams in other major cities, so it’s practically a nonstop destination!
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