Exploring Europe’s cultural capitals

By Lily Howes

October 1, 2022

City breaks to feed your mind and quench your curiosity.

When it comes to architecture, art, music and more, these five European cities have impeccable cultural credentials. Revisit an artistic masterpiece or two, or discover something new – a legendary Barcelona jazz haunt, perhaps, or monumental new museum in Paris.

Architecture in Prague

The Czech capital’s historic centre is UNESCO-listed, and it’s easy to see why. Stroll across the fairy-tale Charles Bridge, which connects Prague Castle with the Old Town – ideally before breakfast, to swerve the crowds and get the best photos.

There’s more to this city than its medieval centre, though, and a tour of Prague’s more modern additions is a must for design buffs. Visit the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art, audaciously topped by an airship, or admire the Dancing House (AKA ‘Fred and Ginger’), co-designed by Frank Gehry. Mandarin Oriental, Prague, meanwhile, has a rich history of its own, set in 14th-century monastery in the historic Malá Strana district.

Art in Munich

Munich may be famed for its beer halls and football, but the Bavarian capital also has some world-class art and culture.

The Pinakothek der Moderne is Germany's largest modern-art museum, spanning art, architecture and design, while the bright and bold Museum Brandhorst has a standout collection of Warhols. For a change of pace, seek out Asam Church, a marble-clad, fresco-painted chapel – Baroque at its best.

Music in Barcelona

Think of Barcelona, and Gaudí most likely springs to mind – the genius behind the Sagrada Família and colourful Park Güell.

Both are must-visits, along with his apartment block – but the Catalan capital’s also an epicentre for all things musical. Set in the majestic Quadrat d'Or (Golden Square), Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is a pleasant paseo from the Palau de la Música Catalana, whose resident choirs include the mighty Orfeó Català.

If jazz is more your scene, make for Jamboree, whose stage has been graced by the legendary likes of Bill Coleman and Chet Baker.

History in Geneva

Start your cultural tour with a stroll through Geneva's cobbled old town to the St Peter's Cathedral. If the prospect of 157 steps isn’t enough to daunt you, climb to the top of the north tower for superb views over Lake Geneva and beyond.

On the way back down, don’t miss the door to the vaults, where you’ll find a fascinating archaeological site. For another journey through time, visit the Patek Philippe Museum, which delves into the art of clock- and watchmaking, via some extraordinary timepieces.

Masterpieces and monuments in Paris

When it comes to cultural riches, there’s nowhere quite like Paris. Start by revisiting a few old friends at the Louvre, or embark on a voyage of discovery at the Musée du Quai Branly, with its amulets, Aztec statues and Peruvian feather tunics.

From here, it’s five minutes’ walk to the Eiffel Tower, or a stroll across the Seine to the fashion-focused Palais Galliera. So far, so familiar? Head for the Bourse de Commerce, now a soaring exhibition space for François Pinault’s stupendous art collection.

About the Author

Lily Howes

Lily is a British writer, based in Amsterdam, who covers content on the Continent (and beyond) for Eurostar, KLM and others.