Discover 7 Charming Second Cities to Visit in Europe

Introduction to Europe's Second Cities

Europe is often celebrated for its iconic cities like Paris, Rome, and London. However, beyond these well-known names, many second cities offer unique charm, rich culture, and more affordable experiences. Here are seven second cities in Europe that should be on your travel radar for your next adventure.

Florence, Italy

Florence, known as the cradle of the Renaissance, is an elegant town nestled in a forested valley in Tuscany. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Rome, Florence offers a more relaxed atmosphere. The Arno River flows through the city, lined with buildings featuring red-tiled roofs and beautifully decorated streets. Notably, the Duomo with its grand red dome stands as a stunning highlight of the city.

Florence is a paradise for art lovers, home to the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo's famous statue of David at the Accademia Gallery. Tuscan cuisine is equally enticing, boasting a variety of traditional dishes. If you're planning to travel from Vietnam, keep in mind that you will need a Schengen visa, and flights from Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Florence typically take around 15-20 hours, with round-trip fares starting from 15 million VND.

Lyon, France

Just a two-hour train ride from Paris, Lyon is one of the world's top culinary capitals, boasting over 4,000 restaurants and 22 Michelin stars. The city is situated in the valley where the Saône and Rhône rivers meet, close to the stunning vineyards of Beaujolais.

In addition to its rich gastronomy, Lyon features the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. If time is short, you can wander through the old town's narrow alleys to discover local eateries with great character. Dining in Lyon can be quite affordable, with hearty meals and quality wine starting from just 300,000 VND.

Porto, Portugal

Porto is a charming city that rivals Lisbon in allure. Its historic architecture, adorned with thousands of colorful tiles, is truly eye-catching. Particularly, Livraria Lello is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, inspiring J.K. Rowling while writing Harry Potter. Porto not only exudes a classic vibe but is also home to many trendy bars and shops.

Don’t miss trying the famous francesinha sandwich and a glass of Port wine. The train ride from Porto to Lisbon takes about an hour, making it easy to explore both cities on your itinerary.

Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city, known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere. The diverse cuisine features delicious dishes from across the Balkan region, with the sweet mpougatsa pastry filled with meat and cheese sure to delight your taste buds.

Often referred to as an open-air museum, Thessaloniki is rich in historical landmarks. A must-visit is the Rotunda St. George, surrounded by narrow alleys and traditional tavernas. You can easily find accommodation for around 1 million VND per night and immerse yourself in the unique local lifestyle.

Cork, Ireland

Cork, often referred to as the rebellious city, has a distinct style compared to Dublin. The city center blends classic pubs, Georgian architecture, and modern buildings. From art to cuisine, Cork is vibrant with cultural events.

While you're there, don’t forget to join a tour at the Franciscan Well brewery and explore the side streets to uncover interesting independent shops. If you love music, there are live performances happening every evening.

Bergen, Norway

Bergen is a beautiful coastal city surrounded by stunning mountains and fjords. The brightly colored merchant houses by the harbor create a fairytale-like setting. It's an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and kayaking opportunities.

The Fløibanen funicular will take you to the top of Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of this picturesque city. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Munich, Germany

Munich epitomizes German culture. Here, you can easily find traditional beer gardens, especially the Hirschgarten, which accommodates up to 8,000 people. The Oktoberfest held every September is the city's liveliest time of year.

Don’t miss visiting the Englischer Garten, a perfect spot for jogging or leisurely walks. From Munich, you can conveniently travel to other cities in Germany. Round-trip flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City typically start from 15 million VND.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

Before planning your trip to these second cities in Europe, you will need to prepare for a Schengen visa. Round-trip airfare from Vietnam to Europe usually starts from 15 million VND.

Additionally, it's advisable to research each city's itinerary and weather to make the best choices. Take this opportunity to savor local cuisine and explore the unique cultures of these lesser-known cities.

This article is adapted and edited from: Matador Network