The key facts
- Bruges topped the ranking of Europe's coziest cities with more than 15,000 upvotes on Reddit
- Amsterdam (14,477) and Prague (11,098) took second and third place
- The top 9 also included Krakow, Athens, Lisbon, Copenhagen, Salzburg and Utrecht
A Ranking Based on Reddit Discussions
A new study conducted by the UK-based vacation home rental agency Big House Experience has identified the coziest destinations in continental Europe (excluding the UK) for autumn 2026. The methodology was based on an analysis of discussions on Reddit: cities were ranked by the number of upvotes received in relevant discussions.
Bruges, Amsterdam and Prague — in the Top Three
First place went to Bruges in Belgium, which received more than 15,000 upvotes. The city is known for its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, picturesque canals, chocolate shops and cozy cafes. Second place went to Amsterdam with 14,477 votes: historic houses along the canals, independent coffee shops and tree-lined embankments that turn red and orange in autumn. The publication also highlights a local autumn treat — poffertjes, miniature pancakes served hot with butter and powdered sugar. The top three is rounded out by Prague with 11,098 votes, known for its historic architecture and atmospheric old quarters.
The Middle of the List: Krakow, Athens and Lisbon
Fourth place went to Krakow with 10,117 votes. Fifth place, to the surprise of many, went to sunny Athens — the Greek capital received 9,243 votes, although it does not usually appear in lists of 'cozy' destinations. According to the publication, Athens shows that coziness is not necessarily associated with cold: sun-drenched streets, traditional taverns and lively neighborhoods create a welcoming atmosphere all autumn long. Sixth place went to Lisbon with 3,243 votes — with tiled streets, historic trams, pastel facades and mild autumn weather. Lisbon and Athens, Euronews notes, suit those who want coziness without the cold.
Copenhagen, Salzburg and Utrecht Close Out the Ranking
Seventh place went to Copenhagen with 2,850 votes — largely thanks to the Danish concept of hygge, which implies a warm and inviting atmosphere that can easily be found throughout the city. Eighth place went to Salzburg in Austria (2,397 votes), which combines mountain scenery and fresh air with traditional coffee houses. The list is rounded out by Utrecht in the Netherlands with 1,040 votes — a calmer alternative to Amsterdam with tree-shaded canals, historic streets and independent cafes.
The Full List
The final ranking of the coziest cities in continental Europe: 1. Bruges (Belgium), 2. Amsterdam (Netherlands), 3. Prague (Czech Republic), 4. Krakow (Poland), 5. Athens (Greece), 6. Lisbon (Portugal), 7. Copenhagen (Denmark), 8. Salzburg (Austria), 9. Utrecht (Netherlands).
