european US cities

7 US Cities That Will Make You Feel Like You’re In Europe

People spend lots of money (and vacation days!) travelling to Europe to see beautiful cities such as Paris and Rome. But if you can’t quite make the stretch, there’s actually some beautiful European-style US cities.

These cities will give you a European vibe without you having to ever dust off your passport and jet halfway across the world. From Danish-inspired architecture to French cathedrals, you’ll instantly fall in love with these places…

US Cities That Look Just Like EuropeHow do these rankings work?

1. Solvang, California

Solvang is just like Denmark, but in SoCal! Founded by Danish-Americans in 1911,  Solvang has carried on the Danish traditions of language, folk dancing, music and cuisine.

The streets are lined with Danish farm-style architecture and windmills of all sizes and you can dive into Scandinavian culture and food with five authentic bakeries and more than 30 restaurants and cafes featuring Danish cuisine.

2. St. Augustine, Florida

Founded in September 1565 by Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles of Spain, St. Augustine is like a little slice of Spain.

St. Augustine is more commonly called the “Nation’s Oldest City. Walk through bustling St. George Street and the historic downtown district. You can also stroll through the Colonial Quarter to find out what local life was like hundreds of years ago.

3. Leavenworth, Washington

Want to soak up the Christmas vibe but can’t make it to Germany? Leavenworth is a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains. Every winter the “Village of Lights” comes alive during the Holidays for a unique winter experience. There’s Alpine lodge buildings and hotels, Christmas markets and Bavarian beer and food.

Be sure to check out The Nutcracker Museum while you’re here, too.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

Volleyed between the French and the Spanish from the late 17th century until the United States bought Louisiana for pennies an acre in 1803, New Orleans is forever shaped by its European heritage. It is known for its street music, festive vibe and a melting pot of French, African and American cultures.

You’ll feel like you’re in France when you’re here, with many street signs still in French and a beautiful cathedral.

5. Lindsborg, Kansas

Known as “Little Sweden,” Lindsborg is a charming town known for its association with Swedish heritage. Every biannual year in October, people flock here for Svensk Hyllningsfest, a lively Swedish festival. There’s folk music and dance performances, arts and crafts fairs with everything from woodworking to pottery, and an epic Smörgåsbord feast of Swedish meatballs, pickled herring, and ostaka, (Swedish cheesecake).

european US cities

6. Holland, Michigan

No surprises here for guessing which European spot this US city looks like! Holland is known worldwide for its famous Tulip Time Festival, a celebration of Dutch heritage.

Tour the DeZwaan Windmill, learn how to Klompen dance at Nelis’ Dutch Village, and tiptoe through the tulips at Veldheer Tulip Farm. You can also discover the history of Holland and its Dutch art collection at the Holland Museum.

european US cities

7. New Glarus, Wisconsin

One of the prettiest European US cities is New Glarus, which was settled in 1845 by Swiss immigrants. New Glarus residents observe Swiss traditions throughout the year; expect to hear plenty of yodeling and alphorns in a village famous as “America’s Little Switzerland.”

There’s beautiful chalet-style architecture and plenty of Swiss bites to eat, from Weiner Schnitzel to melted cheese fondue.

european US cities

Sarah Clayton-Lea

Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York.

Contact [email protected]

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