Europe's heart beats within its cathedrals, each a testament to history, artistry, and faith across centuries. Local Foreigner summer intern Lane Kingsley is taking a quiet walk through some of the grandest examples - from the spires of Gaudí's Sagrada Família in Barcelona to the Gothic majesty of Notre Dame in Paris and the beauty of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Wander through the ancient columns of the Pantheon in Rome and marvel at the intricate mosaics of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice - Did you know St. Peter's Basilica can hold up to 60,000 people? That’s a lot of prayers!

What is the Difference Between a Church, a Cathedral, and a Chapel?

Churches, cathedrals, and chapels are all Christian places of worship, but they differ in scale and significance. A church is a building designated explicitly for Christian worship, typically led by a group of clergymen or priests, while a chapel is a space for individual or small group prayer, not a standalone building. A cathedral serves as the central church in a diocese, overseen by a bishop. Cathedrals are usually more extensive and more architecturally significant than regular churches, representing the seat of church authority in that diocese.

Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral

London, England

Westminster Abbey is the grand stage where the pomp and pageantry of British royalty unfolds, from coronations to royal weddings, and where the greats of Britain find their final resting place. Forty monarchs have been crowned here since 1066. Meanwhile, St. Paul's Cathedral is a testament to resilience and renewal. It's a survivor with a story built, destroyed, and rebuilt. From its origins in 604 AD to its rebirth after the 1666 fire, it's been a focal point of British history. From royal ceremonies to the funeral of Sir Winston Churchill, this cathedral has been a silent witness to some of history's grandest moments.

Where to Stay: The Lanesborough | A Georgian stunner straddling Hyde Park and the Buckingham Palace Gardens, travelers who value tradition with love The Lanesborough in all its quintessential, regal glory. The hotel’s 93 exquisite rooms are richly outfitted -- lavish drapery, polished mahogany, and gilded portraiture infuse them with a storied elegance befitting of royalty. A formal Michelin star restaurant rounds out the property’s dignified atmosphere, while a private spa club (the Middletons are members) fosters an exclusive members-only feel.

Add to the Itinerary: Get your retail therapy at Harrods or the Burlington Arcade, before strolling through Hyde Park for fresh air. Wander through the charming neighborhood of Chelsea, where you might find yourself contemplating whether this was where you were always meant to live. End your day with dinner at 34 Mayfair; known for its exceptional grill menu, they offer a diverse selection of dishes, from prime steaks to fresh seafood.

Catedral de Santa María de la Sede

seville, Spain

A cathedral that's not just big—it's Europe's largest Gothic cathedral. Built on the site of a former mosque after the Reconquista, this cathedral blends Gothic and Renaissance styles seamlessly. Rumor has it that Christopher Columbus was buried here.

Where to Stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII | Set in a 1920s building that was constructed to house dignitaries for the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition, this stately red brick hotel is the most luxurious in Seville. The property is built around a peaceful Moorish courtyard and the recent renovation resulted in uniquely designed and ultra-comfortable guestrooms. The Alfonso XII is grand and historic and the pool and art deco bar are welcomed bonuses.

Add to the Itinerary: Make sure to visit iconic spots like Plaza de España, where Star Wars and Lawrence of Arabia found their backdrops. Next up, it's a royal affair at the historic Royal Alcazar, which even Spanish royalty still call home. Cap off your day with a dose of Flamenco and grab some dinner at Cabonata.

La Sagrada Familia

Barcelona, Spain

La Sagrada Família combines Gothic and Art Nouveau styles with Gaudí's unique touch. Its design features nature-inspired motifs and innovative structural elements. Inside, the basilica offers a vast, awe-inspiring space with stained-glass windows that add colorful illumination when the sunlight hits.

Where to Stay: Mandarin Oriental Barcelona | From the outside, this century-old bank building in Barcelona’s prime shopping, dining, and sightseeing district is stately and classic. However, as soon as you cross the threshold and walk along the dramatic, moody walkway that leads to the hotel’s atrium, you will see that the Mandarin Oriental is far more contemporary than its facade implies. The hotel’s interiors are chic and seductive, attracting a crowd that can be described in the same way. But the Mandarin isn't all good looks, the hotel is known for its state-of-the-art spa, Michelin star dining, and buzzy rooftop pool with epic city views.

Add to the Itinerary: Forget about spending another penny in Soho once you experience the shopping Barcelona offers! And what's a trip to Barcelona without indulging in some paella washed down with fine wine and tapas?

Palma Mallorca Cathedral-Basilica

Mallorca, Spain

Locally known as La Seu, the cathedral sits above Palma-de-Mallorca's waterfront. Built in the 14th century on the site of a former mosque from the Moorish occupation, it is one of Europe's tallest Gothic buildings. The cathedral's origin is tied to a vow by Jaime I of Aragon, who promised to build a church in God's honor after surviving a storm at sea.

Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Son Net | Grand Hotel Son Net, a meticulously restored Mallorcan family estate, stands out in the hotel scene. This classic finca boasts Mediterranean gardens, a terrace, and a pool overlooking Puigpunyent. Inside, it's an eclectic mix of heirlooms and antiques from around the world, creating a timeless ambiance. Originally dating back to 1672, the property underwent a recent renovation under Javier López Granados, featuring 31 uniquely designed rooms. The Grand Suite Maria de Napoles, inspired by Moorish North Africa, epitomizes the hotel's blend of historical richness and contemporary comfort.

Add to the Itinerary: Mallorca isn't just about time on the water – it's also a paradise for foodies and culture enthusiasts! Kickstart your day by walking through Palma's charming streets, where you'll stumble upon quaint churches and food markets, Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in Mallorca Bay or dive into Cuevas del Drach.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Bayeux

Bayeux, France

Ah, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Bayeux—a Gothic Cathedral with a side of Norman charm. Its towering spires tickle the sky, and its intricate stained-glass windows tell tales older than your grandma's grandma.

Where to Stay: Villa Lara | Set back just outside the Medieval center of Bayeux, this family-run inn is a quaint retreat within walking distance of all the city’s significant sites, including the famed Bayeux tapestry. A stay at Villa Lara is like being at a family home, thanks to charming details such as the made-to-order breakfasts and the helpful tips from lovely hotel owner Rima Hebert. The hotel is comprised of two main buildings - Villa Lara, which is where the common areas along with 28 rooms, and Villa Augustine, which is home to 4 Presidential Suites.

Add to the Itinerary: Are you feeling peckish? Wander through the local markets and try some Normandy cheese and cider. In the afternoon, drive to the D-Day Landing Beaches - visit Omaha Beach and the Normandy American Cemetery; the coastline offers a moment of reflection. On your way back, stop by the village of Arromanches to see the remains of the Mulberry Harbour and explore the D-Day Museum.

Notre-Dame de Paris

Paris, France

Reopening to the public in December 2024 following a meticulous restoration, Notre Dame is one of the most famous sites in the world. With its towering spires and intricately carved façade, the cathedral has been turning heads for over 850 years. Whether you're a history buff or love epic architecture, Notre Dame promises a mix of awe, charm, and a dash of medieval mystery.

Where to Stay: Ritz Paris | A legendary property with a storied history, the Ritz Paris has defined Parisian opulence for decades - its distinguished front entrance on the Place Vendome has welcomed the likes of Marcel Proust, Coco Chanel, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. While it’s easy to imagine the grandeur of its heyday, the Ritz remains pertinent today. Its palatial interiors convey an inimitable sense of luxury that feels classically Parisian, without pretense, and its doting service is renowned for its personalization and perception. No matter your reason for visiting, don’t leave without stopping by Bar Hemingway for one of their signature cocktails.

Add to the Itinerary: Stroll along the Seine River, crossing Pont Neuf to reach Île Saint-Louis, where you can grab a snack at the most famous cafe in Paris, Cafe de Flore. From there, wander over to the lively Latin Quarter, where narrow, winding streets are lined with bistros, bookshops, and street performers. Enjoy sampling some escargot or coq au vin.

Duomo di Milano

Milan, italy

The Duomo isn't just a church—it's a statement piece. Italy's largest Gothic cathedral took nearly six centuries to complete, and is a marvel to behold. With 135 marble spires, 135 gargoyles, and over 3,400 statues, it's a true testament to craftsmanship. From the rooftop, you can admire the cityscape and the golden Madonnina, the statue of Mary atop the highest spire.

Where to Stay: Mandarin Oriental, Milan | On a leafy side-street in the tony Quadrilatero district, the Mandarin Oriental Milan offers guests the best of both worlds: a quiet location with easy access to Milan’s most famous sites. Designed to feel like a traditional Milanese residence (a swanky one, at that), the hotel is centered around two inner courtyards and features a sleek design scheme of oak wood tones and muted hues. The on-site spa and fine-dining restaurant are standouts, but for those looking to explore, the heart of the city surrounding Piazza del Duomo is a mere 10-minutes away on foot.

Add to the Itinerary: Stroll to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping malls, for some retail therapy. Admire the impressive glass dome and shop for designer goods and souvenirs. For a lunch option, consider Cantina Piemontese, where the food is sourced from ingredients that adhere to the seasonal cycle.

St. Mark's Basilica

Venice, italy

St. Mark's Basilica is the crown jewel of Venice's St. Mark's Square and the epitome of Italo-Byzantine architecture. Adorned with mosaic-covered domes and intricate details, this basilica is a testament to Venice's rich cultural and artistic heritage. The interiors display over 80,000 square feet of gilded mosaics, most dating back to the 11th-13th centuries.

Where to Stay: Aman Venice | A veritable exhibition of design prowess, Aman Venice is a celebration of Rococo opulence and contemporary minimalism. Inside the 16th century palazzo, the hotel’s frescoed ceilings and silk tapestries evoke the grandeur of historic Venice, while sleek furnishings and understated accents separate the Aman from its traditional neighbors. Signature Aman offerings – first rate spa facilities, locally inspired cuisine, in-touch concierge – are all on hand, and with two private gardens and an exquisite bar, leaving the property might be harder than expected.

Add to the Itinerary: Take a gondola ride through the canals, soaking in the charm. For dinner, go to Restaurant Terrazza Danieli, where you can have authentic Italian dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Grand Canal as the sun sets over Venice.

Cologne Cathedral

cologne, germany

Standing taller than a football pitch and a half, this colossal structure took 600 years to complete. Legend has it that the plans for its stunning façade were recovered from peculiar places—a dusty attic and a bookstall in France. This discovery spurred Cologne to finish the cathedral according to its medieval design, resulting in the most prominent church façade globally, adorned with spires, arches, gargoyles, and intricate windows.

Where to Stay: Excelsior Hotel Ernst | In the heart of Cologne, just steps away from the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the Excelsior Hotel Ernst welcomes you to a world where history and luxury beautifully blend. Since 1863, this five-star gem has been delighting guests with its warm, personalized service and timeless elegance. Imagine yourself relaxing in exquisitely appointed rooms and suites, enjoying culinary masterpieces at the hotel’s two Michelin-starred restaurants, or unwinding with a cocktail in the charming piano bar. Whether you're here for a romantic getaway or a blend of business and leisure, the Excelsior Hotel Ernst offers an unforgettable stay filled with comfort, charm, and a touch of old-world magic.

Add to the Itinerary: After visiting the cathedral, take a walk through the streets of the Old Town, where you can admire historic buildings and sample local cuisine. Take advantage of the opportunity to walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge for views of the Rhine River, or indulge your sweet tooth at the Cologne Chocolate Museum.

Europe's Grandest Cathedrals