Loved Italy, where should we visit next in Europe?

Exploring Europe: Next Destinations After a Memorable Journey Through Italy

Italy’s captivating allure left a lasting impression on us. Over a memorable 14-day trip last year, my wife and I immersed ourselves in the rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine of Rome, Florence, Venice, and a brief but delightful detour to Bologna. While Italy remains close to our hearts—especially Bologna, which we hope to explore more in the future—we are now looking forward to discovering new European destinations.

Our upcoming travel plans are set for March 2026, and our current top choice is exploring Portugal, specifically Lisbon and Porto. However, we are open to other suggestions that can offer a similar blend of walkability, culinary delights, and cultural richness.

What We Love in a Destination

Our travel style leans heavily toward immersive, walkable cities where we can comfortably explore on foot—ideally covering 10,000 or more steps daily. We thrive on discovering local eateries, sipping regional wines or craft beers, and experiencing the vibrant street life. While museums and historical sites are appealing, they are not our main focus; rather, we prefer to soak in the local atmosphere through wandering neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems, and engaging with the local culture.

Reflections on Italy

Italy’s charm for us lies in its exceptional food and drink scene. The cities we visited were wonderfully walkable, allowing us to hop from small cafes, wine bars, and artisan shops to historic landmarks. The combination of delicious cuisine, friendly ambiance, and scenic walks made the trip truly enjoyable.

Looking Ahead: Next European Destinations

As we prepare for our next adventure, we seek recommendations that align with our interests in culinary exploration, walkable cityscapes, and vibrant local life. Portugal’s Lisbon and Porto are currently top contenders, known for their historic neighborhoods, lively streets, and thriving food scenes.

Other European cities that might suit our style include Barcelona, with its lively tapas bars and walkable Gothic Quarter; Amsterdam, famed for its scenic canals and eclectic neighborhoods; or even smaller, picturesque towns in France such as Lyon or Bordeaux.

We’re eager to hear from fellow travelers: What European cities would you recommend for a couple who loves to eat, drink, and explore on foot? Your insights will help us craft a memorable next chapter in our journey through Europe.

Conclusion

After an enriching experience in Italy’s diverse landscapes and cities, we’re excited to continue our exploration of Europe’s vibrant cultures.