Top 10 Most Beautiful Squares in the World

Place des Vosges, or 'Place Royale', is the oldest public square in Paris. Situated between the 3rd and 4th districts, in the Marais district. Constructed over several years and officially inaugurated in 1612 to commemorate the era's wedding of the French King Louis XVIII and the beautiful Austrian bride, Annie, Place Des Vosges Square is not only a source of pride for Parisians but also the most beloved location in the country. This 17th-century masterpiece is acclaimed by top experts for epitomizing the beauty of the elegant French capital. Each year, it attracts an enormous number of visitors nationwide. All structures share a uniform architecture, with only two exceptions having distinctive designs: the King's Pavilion (Pavillion du Roi) to the south, balanced by the Queen's Pavilion (Pavillion de la Reine) to the north of the square.

Both buildings are one floor higher than the rest of the square's structures. However, neither the King's House nor the Queen's House was ever inhabited. The King's steward used to live in a building next to the king's house. On sunny days, Parisians often come here with their favorite books, sunglasses, and snacks to lie down on the lush green lawn for hours. Some others bring along children to play in the sand and enjoy their playful activities. This public square is one of the reasons why the Marais district has become a trendy and expensive area in Paris. The charming arched street leads you to Maison de Victor Hugo (Victor Hugo's house), where he lived for 16 years from 1832 to 1848. Later, the house was transformed into a museum for tourists to explore.

Jamaa El Fna Square stands proudly as Morocco's UNESCO-recognized world heritage site, but for the locals of Marrakech, it holds even deeper significance. Every evening, as the sun dips across the globe, hundreds of street vendors swarm the square, offering a plethora of goods, snacks, toys, and more, creating a bustling and vibrant open-air market. Yet, amidst the lively chaos, there is a sense of organized excitement, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists alike. Jemaa El Fnaa Square is an iconic highlight of any visit to Marrakech and a top tourist destination in Morocco.

The central square in the city hosts various captivating performances such as snake charming, monkey shows, and souvenir vendors. Dating back to the 11th century, the square has been renowned for its myriad activities and fascinating events. Each moment in this mysterious and intriguing destination reflects the local cultural essence. In Arabic, the square's name might signify the Mosque's End of the World or simply a Gathering Place. Some believe it translates to the Land of the Dead, recalling its historical role as a public execution site in the 11th century. Over the centuries, the square has experienced periods of radiant prosperity and moments of obscurity. Open to visitors at all times without an entrance fee, the market and entertainment activities never cease, from early morning until midnight, regardless of the day or month. Bargain wisely when making any purchase and safeguard your belongings to avoid pickpocketing. Also, don't forget to tip performers or photographers...

The square in the city of Seville was officially completed in its construction in 1928, becoming one of the world's most uniquely designed architectural wonders. With a picturesque setting featuring a crescent-shaped building adorned with Moorish revival architecture on one side and a flowing water canal along a tiled stone bank, Plaza De Espana Square is among the most popular attractions in Spain, trailing only behind football-centric cities like Barcelona and Madrid, which are unbeatable rivals for any tourist spot worldwide. Plaza de España is situated at the intersection of some of Madrid's liveliest streets. The skyscraper-style building, rising 25 stories high, was constructed from 1947 to 1953, making it the tallest building in the city at that time.

Head to the square's center to explore the monument of the playwright and novelist Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. Literature enthusiasts will recognize Don Quixote and his loyal companion Sancho Panza cast in bronze beneath the monument, with Cervantes carved in stone, overlooking his characters. On each side of the monument, visitors will find representations of Quixote's true love: Dulcinea del Toboso on one side and Aldonza Lorenzo on the other. Walk to the square's head to admire the sparkling large fountain in the evening. In summer, visitors will encounter rows of stalls selling food and other items. There are also dozens of restaurants around the square. Most prominently in the center of the square stands the Cervantes Memorial, built in 1916 to commemorate three hundred years since the departure of Spain's greatest writer, Cervantes. The Cervantes statue is right in front, accompanied by images of Don Quixote and his companion Sancho Panza in the main halls...

True to its name 'Old Town', this square, a timeless architectural gem of Prague, has stood the test of centuries, dating back to the previous millennium. Built on the central land of the Czech capital, it annually draws a massive influx of visitors, eager to explore and delve into history, contributing significantly to the country's tourism. During the festive Christmas season, Old Town Square hosts one of the nation's largest Christmas markets, becoming a must-visit destination in Europe at year-end. Once the thriving heart of Prague, Old Town Square immerses you in the traditional European atmosphere as you wander through adorned shops and cobalt-colored restaurants lining the square. This lively square is always teeming with street performers, artists, and tour guides.

Marvel at the 360-degree panorama of Prague's distinctive architectural styles from the square's center or observation towers. The Gothic-style Týn Church, Baroque-style St. Nicholas Church, and the Medieval Astronomical Clock are major attractions drawing a large number of tourists. Ensure to be at the square on time to witness the famous clock's performance on the Old Town Hall. The polished cobblestone surface of the square has witnessed footsteps across many centuries, holding a fascinating history. Seek out the 27 white crosses carved in stone, each commemorating a martyr beheaded after the Battle of White Mountain. Examine the bronze statue of Jan Hus and learn about the local preacher who was excommunicated and burned at the stake by the Pope in 1415...

Gendarmenmarkt Square stands as one of Europe's most beautiful squares and is a must-visit destination in the enchanting country of Germany. Often likened to an evening palace when the dignitaries have departed, leaving only the vast expanse under a fading twilight sky, the entire square mesmerizes with its classical and refined features. Surrounded by noteworthy architectural wonders such as theaters, cafes, and churches, Gendarmenmarkt Square becomes the largest artistic entertainment hub in the capital, Berlin. It is the first stop for visitors setting foot in the beautiful city of Berlin, offering a chance to immerse in the German way of life and leisurely appreciate many renowned architectural marvels.

Every year during the festive season, the square comes alive with bustling markets, attracting thousands of visitors. Exploring this square provides an opportunity to admire three iconic architectural structures: the German Cathedral, the concert hall known as “Konzerthaus,” and the French Cathedral known as “The Französischer Dom.” Visiting the square ensures you won't miss these distinctive 18th and 19th-century architectural gems. In the central area of the square, discover the statue of the famous poet Friedrich Schiller. Additionally, being centrally located in the city, the square is a convergence point for numerous unique fashion stores. Here, you can find a plethora of charming and creative items...

Spanning a vast expanse embraced by three main cathedral-like buildings, Grote Markt Square stands as the largest square in the city of Brussels, Belgium. Designed and constructed as royal castle-like structures, the refined golden hues radiate an immensely luxurious ambiance. Experts have hailed the central square of Brussels as a jewel embellishing the splendid beauty of the city, a masterpiece meticulously crafted by architectural art. Visitors to this site are invariably awe-struck and captivated. Grote Markt was once a hub of small-scale merchandise trade and retail. Around 1405–1455, the square began to take shape, evolving from individual buildings to entire streets with architectural influences from the Baroque, Gothic, and Louis XIV eras.

This locale bears witness to the city's historical milestones: in the 16th and 17th centuries, hundreds were executed on the square for various reasons. Witches and protesters were burned at the stake, while rebels and other traitors faced beheading. The adjacent streets, though witnessing many changes, still bear names reflecting their original trade professions such as Butter Street, Cheese Street, Coal Street, Herring Street, etc. No longer a monochromatic square as in centuries past, every two years in August, the square adorns itself with a vibrant floral display. A 77-meter long and 24-meter wide flower carpet, comprising millions of blossoms, presents an unforgettable spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness it.

Located in the beautiful country of Belgium, the Grote Markt square in the city of Antwerp exudes a timeless charm inspired by the art, history, and culture of Europe. This square, with its antique yet dazzling beauty, attracts a large number of tourists to the city. Antwerp, known as the Diamond City or Diamond Capital, offers more than just its diamond allure; it unfolds as a treasure trove of stunning natural landscapes, architecture, and cultural richness steeped in history. Discover the unique experiences this Belgian city has to offer!

The central station of Antwerp is an architectural marvel blending various styles, from Belle Époque to Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau. In 2014, Mashable magazine voted Antwerp Centraal Station as the most beautiful train station in the world! Grote Markt is a common name for prominent squares in Belgium, and Antwerp's version is no exception. In the heart of the square stands a statue of Silvius throwing the giant's hand, representing the folklore of Druon Antigoon. Behind Silvius is the 16th-century Antwerp City Hall, flanked by the characteristic gildenhuis houses of the Netherlands and Belgium. From Grote Markt, a few steps lead to the grand Cathedral of Our Lady. Built in the 16th century, the cathedral boasts a 123m-high bell tower, the tallest in the Low Countries, encompassing the Netherlands and Belgium below sea level. With such impressive height, it took 169 years to complete this bell tower. From its pinnacle, Antwerp with its quaint orange roofs appears like a miniature toy model.

The Main Square Rynek Glowny spans an area nearly equivalent to half a standard sports stadium, making it one of the largest squares in Europe. It serves as the focal point for city council gatherings in Krakow, where thousands gather in rows to listen to the city leaders, becoming an integral cultural aspect for the locals. The square is a central urban space situated in the heart of the city. Dating back to the 13th century, covering 3.79 hectares, it stands as one of Europe's largest medieval town squares. Evaluated by PPS (specializing in public space projects), it's regarded as the best public space in Europe due to the vibrant street life it hosts. This played a significant role in Krakow being named one of the world's top destinations in 2016.

Rynek Glówny is the main square of Krakow, located in the Old Town district, offering a view of the city's major landmarks. The square is enclosed within a neatly square-shaped area, surrounded by historic tenements (kamienice) and churches. Atop the Cloth Hall is an elegant attic or a Polish-style parapet adorned with sculpted masks. Adjacent to the Cloth Hall is the Town Hall Tower (Wieża ratuszowa), while on the other side stands the 10th-century St. Adalbert's Church and the Adam Mickiewicz Monument of 1898. Dominating the square are the Gothic-style towers of St. Mary's Basilica (Kościół Mariacki). For those dreaming of a white Christmas, Krakow delivers. The city's Christmas market, held in the expansive Main Square Rynek Glowny, often experiences thick snowfall in December, adding an enchanting touch surpassing some renowned Christmas markets in Western Europe.

When it comes to the most beautiful squares in the world, the absence of Saint Peter's Square would be a significant omission. Renowned as one of the world's architectural masterpieces, the square in the Vatican City is the most visited place here. It is also a gathering point for the faithful who come to pray or receive the Pope's blessings every Sunday evening. Italy, known as one of the most captivating countries in Europe, mesmerizes travelers with its rich Renaissance-style architecture and distinctive local traditions. Anyone wouldn't miss the chance to witness grand structures, savor delicious Spaghetti, or indulge in aromatic cappuccino. Stepping into Italy, tourists must explore the famous Saint Peter's Square - considered the heart of the Italian nation.

For every Catholic devotee, Saint Peter's Square is regarded as the holiest place in the Vatican. Legend has it that in 67 AD, Saint Peter, the first apostle to spread the word of God in Rome, was crucified at Nero's circus. His remains were buried in a secret tomb in a nearby cemetery. The martyrdom of Saint Peter marked the eternal significance of this land. After the tyrant Emperor Nero was killed, the Vatican Hill cemetery became a sacred place. Saint Peter's Square, shaped like an ellipse, can accommodate 60,000 people, its vastness making everyone feel small. In the center of the square stands a tall obelisk, and in one corner, a large screen broadcasts important events. On Christmas, Easter, Sunday noon, or Wednesdays at 10:30 (weather permitting), the square is filled to capacity.