Often considered the heart of a city, main squares have played a large part in bringing together the social life of cities. Steeped in history and adorned with architectural marvels, they hold a special space in the fabric of European culture.
Whether you call them main squares, plazas or piazzas, there are few better places to soak up the diversity and beauty of European architecture. From the ornate facades of Gothic cathedrals in Prague to the classical elegance of Renaissance monuments in Florence. These squares have witnessed the ebb and flow of time, the rise and fall of empires, and the transformative events that have shaped their cultures.
Today, they serve as gathering places, where people come to soak up the atmosphere, indulge in local cuisine, relax over a tipple of wine, and partake in cultural celebrations and political demonstrations. While, yes, they might sometimes feel touristy, they also offer a window to the past. A place where traditions and modernity coexist in harmony.
Europe's Most Beautiful Main Squares
You’ll notice that some countries appear a few times in this list. Countries such as Spain, Poland and Italy definitely know a thing or two about bringing people together in one place. Inviting all who visit to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of history, art, and community that defines each unique square.
1. Plaza de España | Seville, Spain
With its grandeur and undeniable charm, Plaza de España in Seville was love at first sight. Designed for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, this main square showcases a perfect fusion of Renaissance Revival and Moorish architectural styles. Its semicircular layout embraces a central canal, adorned with stunning bridges and ornate ceramic tile work that depicts scenes from Spanish history.
As you stroll through the square, the intricate details and vibrant colours of the ceramic tiles provide a feast for eyes. From horse-drawn carriages to street musicians and street performers, the square is alive with a palpable energy that reflects the lively spirit of Seville. Plaza de España is not just an architectural masterpiece; it’s a testament to the city’s rich history, cultural heritage, and artistic prowess.
Don’t miss: If you have the good fortune of hearing the echo of pounding feet emitting from the stone corridors, you’re in luck. A flamenco performance is close by for you to witness in all its dramatic glory.
Related read: Getting the Train Between Granada, Cordoba & Spain
2. Plaza de la Virgen | Valencia, Spain
Plaza de la Virgen is the perfect place to lap up the culture, history and beauty of Valencia. Surrounded by impressive landmarks and steeped in history, the square serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
At the centre of the square stands the beautiful Fountain of Turia. A striking bronze statue of Neptune, the Roman god of Sea and Water, created as an allegorical representation of Valencia’s Turia River. Surrounding Neptune are bronze sculptures of eight women with jars pouring water to represent the irrigation channels of the river.
The square is flanked by the magnificent Valencia Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that houses the revered Holy Grail. The cathedral’s bell tower, known as El Miguelete, offers gorgeous panoramic views of the city. Another notable building is the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. The square’s charm extends beyond its architectural treasures, with vibrant cafes and restaurants that offer a perfect spot to sit back, relax, and soak in the atmosphere from within a captivating and picturesque setting.
Further reading: A Gastronomic Tour of Valencia
3. Rynek Główny | Krakow, Poland
Rynek Główny in Krakow is one of the finest and largest medieval squares across Europe. Even before entering the square, you’ll likely spot the twin towers belonging to St Mary’s Basilica stretching above the skyline. A vision of Gothic splendour. Head inside for an an explosion of shimmering colours and details, ranging from red, blue, ochre, gold. Literally ever colour of the rainbow. The vaults, the columns – everything is painted with no expense to detail spared.
Bordered by picturesque townhouses, the square is also home to the majestic Cloth Hall. An architectural gem that has stood as a symbol of Krakow’s commercial and artistic legacy for centuries when silk, leather and spices were once traded in these very steps. Today, it’s filled with stalls selling amber jewellery, a valuable and sought-after fossilised tree-resin that is naturally found in the Baltic regions. The square serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the cafes, restaurants, horse-drawn carriages, market stalls and sculptures lining its perimeter from dusk till dawn.
Planning a trip to Krakow? Check out → 14 Best Things to do in Krakow
4. Stary Rynek | Poznań, Poland
If Pixar created a main square, it would look something like Poznań’s colourful and quirky Stary Rynek, also know as Old Market Square. There’s no square that appears quite so whimsical, particularly when standing in front of the the row of slender merchant houses, all uniformed in size but differing in their choice of bold, playful colours each emblazoned with playful patterns and shapes.
Historically, many of the buildings served as inns and taverns and merchant houses, providing accommodation for traders who participated in the lively commerce of Stary Rynek. Today, many of these buildings have been preserved and transformed into restaurants, cafes, shops, and cultural venues, maintaining the historical charm while serving modern-day functions.
The Town Hall, standing proudly at the centre of Stary Rynek, is a splendid example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with its towering clock tower and stunning architectural features. Its beautiful facade, adorned with statues and intricate carvings, is a testament to the city’s prosperous past.
Further reading: Picturesque Postcards from Poznan
5. Rynek Starego Miasta | Warsaw, Poland
As you might have already discovered, Poland really likes to make its main squares sing with explosions of colour and detail. Rynek Starego Miasta (The Old Market Square) in Warsaw is no different.
Located in the captivating and historic square that serves as the heart of the city’s charming Old Town, it’s always filled with action no matter the season. I’ve had the fortune of coming here in the winter to witness a sparkle of fairy lights and bask in the aroma of mulled wine during Christmas.
Looking at this square today, it’s hard to believe construction was only finished 30-years ago. The finish is incredibly authentic. During World War II, the Old Market Square suffered severe damage and destruction as a result of the Warsaw Uprising and subsequent German occupation. Much of the square, including its historic buildings, was reduced to rubble.
However, following the war, the square became the focus of an ambitious reconstruction effort. The townhouses and structures were meticulously rebuilt to resemble their original appearances, using historical records, paintings, and photographs as references.
Related read: Enjoying Warsaw’s Christmas Markets and Festivities
6. Old Town Square | Prague, Czechia
You can’t get more picture-postcard worthy than Prague’s enchanting main square. The fairy-tale square is framed by magnificent buildings representing various architectural styles, including the Gothic splendor of the Church of Our Lady before Týn and the intricate details of the Baroque St. Nicholas Church. At the centre stands the iconic Astronomical Clock, a marvel of medieval engineering that delights crowds with its hourly show.
The square buzzes with activity, enticing visitors to soak up the atmosphere and admire the myriad of colourful facades. It is a place where history speaks, where tales of kings, artists, and revolutions intertwine. Old Town Square is a cultural crossroad, where the past meets the present, and visitors can embrace the timeless charm of Prague.
Whether admiring the architectural wonders, sipping a cup of coffee at a cosy cafe, or simply reveling in the lively ambiance, Old Town Square is an essential stop for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and captivating spirit of Czechia’s capital city.
Further reading: An Art Lover’s Guide to Prague
7. Piazza San Marco | Venice, Italy
Known also as St. Mark’s Square, this iconic square is a true masterpiece of architecture and embodies the heart and soul of Venice. There’s nothing quite as breathtaking as clapping eyes on St. Mark’s Basilica for the first time. With its distinctive domes, intricate marble facades, and ornate mosaics, the basilica captures the essence of Byzantine grandeur.
It is a place where the beauty of art, the bowels of history and the joys of socialising come together. My only gripe with this square is the overpriced cafes which I suggest avoiding in favour of the the many cicchetti bars that line the atmospheric alleyways of Venice.
8. Piazza del Duomo | Florence, Italy
While Piazza del Duomo is not the main square of Florence (that belongs to Piazza della Signoria), it is certainly the the best.
Amidst the bustling streets and swirling tales of Renaissance splendor, lies the magnificent Piazza del Duomo, one of Europe’s most visited sites. At its centre stands the resplendent Florence Cathedral, known as Il Duomo, a testament to human ingenuity and artistic vision. Its majestic dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, reaches towards the heavens, symbolising the city’s unyielding spirit and quest for greatness. The Baptistery, an exquisite octagonal structure clad in white and green marble, captivates with its intricate details and stunning bronze doors. Nearby, Giotto’s Campanile soars gracefully, offering a vantage point to behold the city’s panorama.
It’s impossible not to be taken by the artistic genius and ambition of those who created the Piazza del Duomo. It’s not merely a square; but a living testament to Florence’s artistic legacy, an embodiment of human creativity and the indomitable spirit of the Renaissance that continues to captivate visitors from every corner of the globe.
9. Piazza dei Miracoli | Pisa, Italy
In the enchanting city of Pisa, nestled along the banks of the Arno River, lies the ethereal Piazza dei Miracoli, the Square of Miracles. This extraordinary ensemble of architectural wonders, steeped in history and imbued with timeless beauty, offer an unforgettable experience.
At the heart of the square stands the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, a magnificent campanile that defies gravity and captures the imagination. Its delicate tilt, an unintended consequence of the soft ground beneath, has transformed it into an international symbol of architectural marvel.
Alongside the tower, the resplendent Pisa Cathedral stands as a testament to Romanesque grandeur, with its exquisite façade adorned in intricate marble carvings. The Baptistery, a circular masterpiece clad in white marble, captivates with its graceful elegance and echoes with whispers of baptisms performed throughout centuries.
As one strolls through the square, the lush green lawn dotted with ornate gravestones, known as the Camposanto Monumentale, offers a peaceful sanctuary for reflection. Piazza dei Miracoli, a place where time stands still, is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Pisa and the remarkable achievements of human craftsmanship.
10. Place de la Concorde | Paris, France
The biggest plaza in Paris, it was once dedicated to Louis XV, but the people reclaimed it in the French Revolution, naming it Place de la Concorde. The name ‘Concorde’ translates to ‘concord’ or ‘agreement’ in English, reflecting the desire for reconciliation and a sense of peace following the tumultuous period of the French Revolution.
While it probably isn’t the most beautiful square in Paris, I selected it for its historical significance. This plaza had witnessed A LOT of drama. Most notably, the location where King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were executed by guillotine. Thankfully, these days it’s commonly known for where the Tour de France crosses the finish line.
At the centre of the plaza are the two Fontaines de la Concorde, incredibly elaborate fountains of iron and bronze celebrating the rivers and seas of France. Between them is an ancient Egyptian obelisk, created thousands of years ago and gifted from Egypt in the 19th century.
I wouldn’t however call this square peaceful, usually surrounded by traffic and busy roads, but it’s conveniently situated adjacent to the Avenue des Champs-Elysees, the Tuileries Gardens.
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11. Place Kléber | Strasbourg, France
Place Kléber, located in the historic centre of Strasbourg, France, is a vibrant square that holds a special place in the city’s history. Named after General Jean-Baptiste Kléber, a renowned military leader during the French Revolution and a statue of him has been erected with a vault containing his remains underneath.
The square is surrounded by beautiful architectural landmarks, including the artistic Aubette building and the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral. With its spacious layout, well-manicured gardens, and stylish outdoor seating areas, Place Kléber offers a delightful setting for people to relax, socialize, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The square is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to indulge in the cafe culture, a spot of retail therapy, or simply soak up the charming sense of joie de vivre.
12. Stortorget | Stockholm, Sweden
Translating to “The Great Square,” Stortorget located in the picturesque Old Town (Gamla Stan) is the oldest square in Stockholm dating back to the 13th Century. The square is surrounded by well-preserved townhouses characterised by vibrant facades and distinct crow-stepped gables.
As you take in the colourful facades and instagrammable backdrop, it’s difficult to image the terror that unfolded during the Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520. Nearly 100 people who opposed the Danish Monarchy and mainly consisted of Swedish royalty and aristocrats were either drown, hanged or beheaded. Sweden eventually gained their independence in 1953 but needless to say, this caused a great deal of tension between the Danes and Swedes for centuries after.
Today, the square is a vibrant hub where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the atmosphere, dine at charming cafes and restaurants, and explore the nearby narrow winding streets of Gamla Stan with a wide selection of museums in tow.
Further reading: The Best Museums in Stockholm
13. Praça Do Comércio | Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of my favourite city’s in Europe, and Praça Do Comércio is one of the finest plazas the country has to offer. It is surrounded on three sides by bright yellow Pombaline style buildings, and the southern side overlooks the beautiful Targus River. In the centre is a grand statue dedicated to King Joseph I, and on the northern side is the famous Rua Augusta Arch which was built to commemorate the city’s reconstruction after the devastating 1755 earthquake.
Praça do Comércio is not only visually captivating but also carries the weight of Portugal’s rich maritime history and the legacy of explorers who embarked on epic journeys from Lisbon’s shores to India, Brazil and South-East Asia.
Read more: 12 Reasons to Fall in Love with Lisbon
14. Rātslaukums | Riga, Latvia
Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums) in Riga is vibrant yet relaxing square that makes it the perfect spot for people-watching or to enjoy an evening stroll.
It’s hard to miss the striking features adorning the House of the Blackheads (Melngalvju nams), one of the main attractions of Town Hall Square in Riga. This stunning building, with its intricate Gothic architecture, is a symbol of the city’s history and a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Originally built in the 14th century for the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, a guild for unmarried merchants, the House of the Blackheads was reconstructed in the 1990s after being destroyed during World War II. The building now serves as a venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts, showcasing the vibrant arts and culture scene of Riga.
Make sure to wander down the various streets surrounding Town Hall Square, as Riga as some of Europe’s most beautiful Art Nouveau architecture to behold.
Further reading: 20 Interesting Things to do in Riga
15. Grand Palace | Brussels, Belgium
I have very fond memories of standing in the Grand Place, or Grote Markt, while it was full of magnificent flowers. Every two years, the square is home to the Flower Carpet Festival. This stunning spectacle consists of a 70 m long by 24 m wide carpet of begonias and dahlias laid out in a variety of patterns and motifs in the Grand Place.
The square is surrounded by elegant and intricately decorated buildings that showcase a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Louis XIV. The Town Hall, with its iconic tower, stands as the centerpiece of the square and is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture (perfect place to go for a bird’s-eye view of the Flower Carpet too!).
The Grand Place is steeped in history and has served as a market square, a meeting place, and a stage for important events throughout the centuries. Today, it remains a bustling hub where locals and tourists gather to soak in the grandeur of the surroundings, indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles, and enjoy the outdoor cafes that line the square. It truly comes alive during special occasions and festivals, such as the Flower Carpet, the Winter Wonders market, and the biennial Ommegang historical pageant. It is a place where the spirit of Brussels thrives, and a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history, architectural splendour, and cultural gatherings.
Love comic books and street art? Read → The Comic Book Murals of Brussels
16. Marienplatz | Munich, Germany
Not just the most beautiful square in Munich, Marienplatz is considered the most beautiful square in the whole of Germany.
The square’s name, Marienplatz, translates to “Mary’s Square” in honor of the iconic Marian column that graces its centre. Mariensäule (St. Marry’s Column) was erected as an emblem of Munich’s gratitude to the Swedes for not destroying the city during the Thirty Years War lasting from 1618 to 1648.
The square is surrounded by impressive architectural landmarks, including the stunning New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) with its Gothic Revival facade and the historic Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) with its distinctive tower. The Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall is a major attraction, delighting visitors with its charming figurine display and musical performance. Throughout the year, the square hosts various events and festivals, such as the famous Christmas Market, further enhancing its international reputation.
17. Trafalgar Square | London, UK
Last but not least is Trafalgar Square, a place I have spent many hours, day and night, soaking up the atmosphere and attending a myriad of events.
Named after the famous Battle of Trafalgar, it stands as a symbol of British naval prowess and commemorates Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory which prevented Napoleon Bonaparte’s forces from invading Britain in 1805. At the centre of the square towers Nelson’s Column, a lofty monument surrounded by four majestic lion statues to remember his bravery after he died in the battle.
Trafalgar Square is always full of life, attracting visitors from around the world. Its wide expanse is adorned with fountains, sculptures, and beautiful architectural features, creating a dramatic backdrop for gatherings, demonstrations, and celebrations alike. The square is also flanked by notable landmarks, including the imposing National Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of fine art by world-famous artists, as does the National Portrait gallery which re-opened recently.
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What's your favourite main square in Europe?
