After exploring 40 countries across Europe, I can confidently say that no trip is complete without visiting its stunning town squares. From Italy’s vibrant piazzas to hidden gems tucked away in Eastern Europe, these squares are the heartbeats of their cities. Imagine grand architecture, buzzing outdoor cafes, and cobblestone streets that have seen centuries of history. Whether you’re soaking in the art, joining a lively market, or just people-watching, each square has its own unique vibe. Here are 17 of the most beautiful squares I’ve come across—each a must-see if you want to feel Europe’s rich culture up close.
The 17 Prettiest Squares in Europe (At a Glance)
Ready to see the nicest European squares imaginable? Here are my favorites at a glance:
- Oldest Square: Old Town Square – Prague, Czech Republic, dating back to the 12th century.
- Largest Square: Rynek Główny – Kraków, Poland, Europe’s largest medieval square.
- Most Famous Square: Piazza San Marco – Venice, Italy, iconic for its breathtaking views and Venetian architecture.
- Most Visited Square: Piazza Navona – Rome, Italy, a vibrant space bustling with tourists year-round.
- Best for Christmas Markets: Grand-Place – Brussels, Belgium, transforms into a festive wonderland every December.
- Best for Architecture Lovers: Plaza Mayor – Madrid, Spain, with beautiful Renaissance facades and vibrant frescoes.
- Best for Art Enthusiasts: Piazza della Signoria – Florence, Italy, an open-air museum showcasing Michelangelo and Cellini.
- Best Hidden Gem: Sibiu Grand Square – Sibiu, Romania, a picturesque, lesser-known treasure in Transylvania.
- Most Historic Square: Red Square – Moscow, Russia, with rich history and St. Basil’s Cathedral.
- Best Scenic Views: Trinity Square – Budapest, Hungary, offering sweeping views of the Danube and Pest.
- Best for Festivals: Piazza del Campo – Siena, Italy, home of the famous Palio horse race.
- Most Unique Design: Plaza de España – Sevilla, Spain, known for its Renaissance-Moorish style and iconic bridges.
- Most Photogenic: Trafalgar Square – London, England, with Nelson’s Column and vibrant city life.
- Best Waterfront Setting: Praça do Comércio – Lisbon, Portugal, with its scenic views over the Tagus River.
- Best for Cafes and People Watching: Marienplatz – Munich, Germany, alive with Bavarian charm and the Glockenspiel show.
- Best Historical Atmosphere: Council Square – Brașov, Romania, with colorful Saxon architecture in a medieval setting.
I will dive into each of these gems in more detail below!
17. Piazza della Signoria – Florence, Italy
Piazza della Signoria in Florence is a masterpiece of art and history, centered around the grand Palazzo Vecchio, the city’s historic town hall. This iconic square is an open-air museum, showcasing sculptures like a replica of Michelangelo’s David and Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa.
The Fountain of Neptune, crafted by Bartolomeo Ammannati, adds a Renaissance elegance. Nearby, the Loggia dei Lanzi houses statues depicting ancient and mythological scenes, offering a free glimpse into Florence’s artistic legacy. With bustling cafes and sweeping views of Florence’s architecture, Piazza della Signoria captures the soul of the Renaissance city. With its charm and beauty, I highly recommend a visit to Florence!
16. Sibiu Grand Square – Sibiu, Romania
Sibiu Grand Square, in the heart of Transylvania, is a hidden gem that could rival Europe’s most famous squares. Surrounded by pastel-colored, baroque buildings and cobblestone streets, this UNESCO-listed square has a captivating blend of charm and history.
The 15th-century Council Tower offers stunning views over the red rooftops and nearby Carpathian Mountains. The square comes alive with outdoor cafes, local artisans, and street performances, especially during summer and the renowned Sibiu Christmas Market. Visiting Sibiu feels like stepping back in time, yet it brims with warmth and vibrancy, making it unforgettable for anyone who stumbles upon it.
15. Piazza Navona – Rome, Italy
Located in the heart of Rome, Piazza Navona is easily one of the most famous squares in Europe. It dates back to Roman times nearly 2,000 years ago, and was since rebuilt in the 15th century.
Nestled on the former Stadium of Domitian, Piazza Navona’s unique elongated shape pays homage to its Roman athletic history. At its center, you’ll find Bernini’s famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, representing the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata.
Today, this beautiful square in Europe is filled with fountains, baroque buildings, quaint cafés, street performers, and more. This makes it an exciting alfresco scene during all times of the day.
14. Praça do Comércio – Lisbon, Portugal
This beautiful square in Lisbon definitely deserves a spot on your bucket list. Praça do Comércio, or “Commerce Square” in English, is one of the most iconic sights in Lisbon, and for good reason. The square’s Arco da Rua Augusta offers a stunning panoramic view over the Tagus River and Lisbon’s historic Baixa district. Nearby, you’ll find a statue of King José I, a nod to the city’s royal past.
The square is lined with beautiful 18th-century buildings, all draped in yellow. It’s funny that back in the 1980s, this square was used as a parking lot. Glad that Lisbon found a better use for this prime real estate!
13. Plaza Mayor – Madrid, Spain
This is one of the best squares in Europe due to its vibrant architecture and old world charm. It was constructed in the early 1600s as the center of Old Madrid. The Plaza Mayor is only a few blocks away from another notable plaza, the Puerta del Sol.
Look closely at the painted facades, especially Casa de la Panadería, adorned with intricate frescoes celebrating Madrid’s culture. Around the holidays, this square transforms into a festive market, perfect for enjoying local treats. This bustling public space in the heart of Madrid is definitely among the most beautiful European squares for architecture lovers.
12. Trafalgar Square – London, England
Trafalgar Square is another beautiful square in Europe that you should add to your bucket list. It was completed in 1840 to commemorate the Battle of Trafalgar, a naval victory by the British fleet over Napoleon.
At the square’s heart is Nelson’s Column, standing 52 meters tall to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. It’s also home to the National Gallery, a cultural gem housing works by Van Gogh, Turner, and Botticelli. Today, Trafalgar Square, one of the best squares in Europe, is a lively place that’s especially popular during gatherings and political demonstrations. It’s located in one of Europe’s prettiest cities as well, London.
11. Red Square – Moscow, Russia
This has to be one of the best and most beautiful squares in Europe. Located in the heart of Moscow, Red Square is one of the top attractions in Moscow and Russia as a whole. This iconic landmark is often use to portray the Kremlin, as it separates this royal building from the historic merchant quarter of the city (Kitai-gorod).
This iconic square, with its striking red walls, offers a direct view of the Kremlin, Russia’s center of political power. During winter, it hosts an open-air ice rink and holiday market, adding to its timeless charm. The most noteworthy sight in this square is Saint Basil’s Cathedral, undoubtedly one of the most unique churches in Europe.
10. Saint Peter’s Square – Vatican City
It’s easy to feel inspired and lose yourself when you’re standing in Saint Peter’s Square.
Built in 1667, St. Peter’s Square sits in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the holiest Catholic sites in the world. The square and basilica are named after St. Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles who was considered to be the first Pope.
Designed by Bernini, the grandiose colonnades embrace visitors, symbolizing the church’s welcoming arms. On Easter, it’s a pilgrimage hub where thousands gather to hear the Pope’s blessing.
9. Trinity Square – Budapest, Hungary
Trinity Square (Szentháromság tér) is definitely among the best squares in Europe. This square marks one of the highest points on Buda Hill, offering sweeping views of the Danube and Pest below. The Holy Trinity Column, at its center, is a baroque masterpiece built in gratitude for surviving the 1691 plague. It’s also home to Matthias Church, Buda Castle, and the Fishermen’s Bastion.
With beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Danube River, this is easily one of the highlights of visiting Budapest.
8. Marienplatz – Munich, Germany
The lively and pedestrian-friendly Marienplatz has been the main city square in Munich since 1158. Surrounded by the Neues Rathaus (“New City Hall”) and Altes Rathaus (“Old City Hall”), Munich’s Marienplatz is the best place to begin your sightseeing. Three times each day, the Glockenspiel comes to life with chiming bells and dancing figurines – an eye-popping experience that can’t be missed!
During the famous glockenspiel show, 32 life-sized figures dance and reenact Bavarian stories. At Christmastime, it becomes a magical market filled with lights, mulled wine, and holiday cheer.
7. Council Square – Brașov, Romania
Council Square (Piața Sfatului) is nestled in the heart of Brașov’s historic center. It’s been a main market square since the 1300s, so you’ll see many historic buildings and monuments sprawled around the square. What I like most about it is the colorful architecture! The sight of vibrant buildings, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque structures, will definitely put you in a cheery mood.
Surrounded by vibrant Saxon architecture, this square is a focal point of Romania’s medieval history. Visit the 15th-century Black Church nearby, named after a fire in 1689 darkened its walls. This hidden gem in Eastern Europe merits a visit, especially if you’re looking for a place off the beaten path. Brașov Square may not be one of the most famous squares in Europe, but it’s certainly among the most beautiful!
Read next: Top Hidden Gems in Europe to Visit in 2025
6. Piazza San Marco – Venice, Italy
Named after its 11th century Basilica, the Piazza San Marco (“St. Mark’s Square”) is the heart and soul of Venice. Surrounded by beautiful architecture and monuments, this scenic square is a popular center for locals and tourists alike.
Often prone to “acqua alta” or high water, the square is known for occasional flooding that adds a surreal reflection of its surrounding architecture. The Campanile tower provides an unbeatable view of Venice’s canals and rooftops. The Piazza San Marco truly embodies the serenissima (“most serene”) qualities of Venice and Italy, and is definitely one of the best nightlife spots in Venice.
5. La Grand-Place – Brussels, Belgium
The Grand-Place (“Great Square”) is the most extravagant site in Brussels and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Its rich, adorned architecture is emblematic of Brussels as a cultural and political powerhouse in Europe.
Every two years, the square hosts a “Flower Carpet,” covering it in intricate floral patterns. I was lucky to visit Brussels during Christmas time, when the entire square was illuminated in brilliant, vibrant colors!
4. Piazza del Campo — Siena, Italy
With much of its architecture dating back to the 14th century, the Piazza del Campo is the historic center of Siena. Recognized by its fiery-colored bricks and shell-shaped design, the Piazza del Campo is the most spectacular square in all of Italy and among the most beautiful in Europe.
The square hosts the world-famous Palio di Siena horse race, a historic and thrilling event every summer. Climb Torre del Mangia, the towering landmark, for panoramic views over Siena’s countryside.
Read next: Top Day Trips from Bologna, Italy
3. Old Town Square – Prague, Czech Republic
Tracing back to the 12th century, Prague’s Old Town Square is a magnificent display of medieval architecture. Dominated by its Old Town Hall, Astronomical Clock, and Týn Church, this medieval square is a must-see in the heart of Central Europe! Nearby, Týn Church and St. Nicholas Church stand as stunning examples of Gothic and Baroque architecture.
A visit to Prague’s Old Town Square won’t disappoint! You’ll quickly see why it’s among the prettiest cities in Europe!
2. Rynek Główny – Kraków, Poland (the largest square in Europe)
Kraków’s historic center, Rynek Główny (“Main Market Square”), is the largest medieval and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Dating back to the 13th century, this is Europe’s largest medieval square, with its iconic Cloth Hall at the center for local handicrafts. Performers and horse-drawn carriages add an old-world charm to this bustling marketplace.
With its Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica, this magical marketplace contains an eclectic mix of Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. Within Kraków’s medieval square, you will find a plethora of horse-drawn carriages that bring the Main Market Square to life!
Read next: Most Budget-Friendly Cities in Europe
1. Plaza de España – Sevilla, Spain
Unlike the other squares on this list, the Plaza de España is a modern architectural wonder. Built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, the Plaza de España embodies the Renaissance and Moorish styles that are prevalent in Andalusia’s history. Though contemporary in nature, this magnificent plaza will make you feel as if you’re back in Spain’s colonial times. Cross over its lovely canal bridges, inspired by Venice, which offer picture-perfect views of the square.
Read next: Most Scenic Sights in Spain
I hope you have enjoyed reading this list of the 15 most beautiful squares in Europe!
Are you looking to kick off 2025 by discovering some of the most beautiful cities in Europe? If so, I recommend checking out my recent blog posts about Barcelona and Verona:
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