What comes to mind when you think of cosmopolitan European capitals? Bustling streets, trams, and traffic, all surrounded by buildings from centuries ago? In one sense, you would be right. But it’s only part of the picture. Today, we’d like to reveal four of the greenest cities in Europe, capitals that strike the harmonious balance between excitement and the calm of what almost seems like a country escape. Let’s dive into these places in this northbound itinerary, best experienced by train. 

Warsaw, a city where green spaces and history intertwine 

The movies tell us Warsaw is a gloomy concrete jungle, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Did you know that about a quarter of the city is devoted to natural spaces? That makes it one of the greenest capitals on the continent. For an active outdoor adventure, start a Pole Mokotowskie, an enormous leafy space that’s perfect for cycling and picnicking. Then, take the metro to see Warsaw’s famous rooftop gardens, where urban life and nature link in harmony. The best example is on the roof of the University of Warsaw’s library. Visiting means putting your finger on the youthful pulse of this city. Bring your book, a snack, a thermos of tea and breath in the fresh air in this magnificent locale.  

It’s hard to talk about parks in Warsaw without mentioning the Royal Łazienki Gardens, a 17th-century bathhouse for Polish royalty. And yes, it is truly a splendid place! But for a more local experience, consider instead walking along the banks of the Vistula River. The longest river in the country, it shaped the city’s development and stands as a cultural symbol. The great thing about it is that it merges two experiences. Go at sunset to one of Warsaw’s famous city beaches (we suggest Rusałka or Poniatówka) to see the light on the water, and then, once some time passes, check out the countless bars and dance venues on the bank. It’s the ideal place for riparian entertainment! 

Vilnius, a verdant city in sprawling Lithuanian valleys 

Vilnius is a place that’s known for its medieval charm. And yes, the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of life from the Middle Ages. But did you know it is also an ideal place for exploring nature? There are two ways to do this. First, visit its lovely parks, especially Vingis Park, the city’s largest, or Belmontas Park along the Vilnia River, which happens to feature a small yet lovely waterfall! Being alongside the river leads us to the second way: natural adventures that have Vilnius as their starting point. The river is a great place to kayak or paddleboard. It gives you access to lush areas of town from a unique vantage point. Another activity that’s connected to the river is biking tours on the Neris River paths. This will flood your lungs with fresh air and give you the forest escape you so desire. Another excellent idea is to visit Trakai Village, a stunning castle just twenty-five kilometers from the city. Surrounded by the waters of Lake Galve and featuring a distinctive orange roof, this castle was built in the 14th century and served as a residence for the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. 

Finally, consider something magical: a ride in a hot air balloon. This popular activity offers you uniquely gorgeous views of the city. Imagine looking down at the Old Town from above. And that’s not all, you’ll be able to gaze out into the distance over this exquisite land. All this exploring will surely work up an appetite. After your hot air balloon ride or boat trip, make sure to taste some local specialties like the round smoked sausage, skilandis, the thin, delightfully crispy potato pancakes called blynai, or the kefir infused beet soup, šaltibarščiai. 

Riga, the Baltics’ beating (green) heart 

One fifth of Riga is covered in green space. In other words, it’s a utopia for nature lovers. To start, there are the spectacular parks—we suggest Vērmanes Garden, located right at the city center and the Kronvalda Park, which is known for its romantic canal and bridges.  

But if you’re truly naturally curious, you’ll love something a bit more original. Just outside of the city is the Great Ķemeri Bog, a wetland that happens to possess Europe’s longest footbridge in a bog. Now before you ask –let us tell you why this place is remarkable. First, it has a unique and splendid micro-ecosystem. In fact, it’s one of the largest and most pristine bogs in the region and gives a home to rare plants, mosses, and animals. That aside, it’s also simply alluring. Its landscapes are ethereal, with ponds that shine like mirrors and sunsets through the mist that make for breathtaking scenes. Last but certainly not least, consider searching for rare fowl at Lake Ķīšezers, a tranquil place where some singularly lovely birds live. Make sure to bring your binoculars and camera! 

Tallinn, beautiful Baltic beaches and deep pine forests 

Tallinn might be known for its medieval Old Town, but its other treasure is the beautiful long coastline spanning over 26 miles that connects Tallinn’s several multifaceted districts. Most of the coastline is fully accessible to everyone through promenades and hiking trails. So, join the locals on a stroll through the seaside all while enjoying some of the freshest air in Europe  

Not many cities can boast having a nature reserve within its borders – Paljassaare peninsula is a popular hiking spot and a protected area as a habitat for several bird species. 

Nature can even be enjoyed in winter, believe it or not. Aside from taking heavenly strolls in the crisp northern air, Tallinn is a place where after a good snow, you can cross-country ski. And if you’re brave enough, some locals will do winter swims. It’s best to first get warm in a hot sauna and then jump straight into the cold water. It really gets your blood pumping. 

To many, Tallinn is known for its pine forests, and the oasis that is the district of Nõmme is the reason why.  Historically, it was summerhouse district, a suburb of the city meant to give affluent residents a place to relax in wooden villas surrounded by nature. Much of that original splendor still exists and can be reached from the city center by train or bus. Beside exploring the area on foot, consider visiting the Nõmme market for local specialties, take a short yet peaceful hike in the Nõmme-Harku Forest, and explore Glehn Park, created by the town’s founder in the 19th century with eccentric statues depicting Estonian legendary characters and a fortress that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. 

These four cities are ideal for urban greenery. They create the perfect marriage of all the cosmopolitan benefits of capitals with the tranquility of nature.

• In Warsaw, spend the morning at a museum and the afternoon at a city beach like Rusałka or Poniatówka, suntanning and reading a good book.

• Vilnius is also a river hub, a place for kayaking and paddleboarding unless castles are more your thing, in which case Trakai is perfect for you.

• In Riga, feel the great draw of romance in stunning city parks or venture to the Great Ķemeri Bog to see gorgeous birds and shimmering scenery.

• In Tallinn, stroll through pine forests or along soft beaches and feel the harmoniousness of this northern gem.