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Throughout Europe, countless churches stand as testaments to faith, history, and breathtaking craftsmanship. From modernist masterpieces to centuries-old sanctuaries, we present some of the most captivating examples recommended by discerning travelers.

A Contemporary Marvel in the Norwegian Arctic

Often called the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund Kirke in Tromsø is a remarkable specimen of 20th-century architecture. The clean, graceful exterior mirrors the nearby scenery and evokes historic Sami dwellings. Inside, guests will find what are arguably the most cozy pews one could ever sit on. A stunning mural of glass portraying the Return of Christ might not be for everyone, but it exudes a profound feeling of grandeur. Exiting the magnificent building following an organ recital to witness the northern lights dancing in the sky is an awe-inspiring experience.

Panoramic Vistas and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

I never understood what people find in churches. The Monastère Notre Dame de Cimiez was different.

Its grounds bursting with blooms and plants provide a magnificent vista over the city. A graveyard there holds the grave of artist Henri Matisse, but it is the small chapel that genuinely captures the spirit of a church. Although it would never compare to more ornate establishments, that is exactly the point. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up centuries of faith. Being there produced a sensation beyond mere peace or tranquility; it was a profound understanding of the comfort these places can provide.

Cupolas and Round Churches in Northern Italy

Nestled within a labyrinth of piazzas and winding streets, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a prime illustration of Italy's ecclesiastical art, featuring stunning marble and massive domes. Yet, the true highlight of the site is the Duomo Vecchio, completed in the 12th century. This medieval round church, including an subterranean vault, is brimming with historical charm and character. Together, Brescia's cathedrals serve as a perfect snapshot of Italy's changing building styles.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

Below Essen in the town of Neviges rises one of the world's most individual and striking cathedrals. Maria, Königin des Friedens, also known as the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece built from 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and dazzling stained glass create a lofty, light-filled interior of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "brutalist". Adding to the allure of this tourist-free location is the nearby 13-kilometer Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an incredible feat of transport engineering.

Mountain Views from Lausanne Cathedral

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the cathedral offers views stretching from the picturesque historic centre down to the Lake Geneva and the distant Alpine peaks. Admission to the church is free, and for a modest charge, visitors can ascend the spire. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and breathtaking views, this 800-year-old building hosts a varied programme of free concerts, exhibitions, and activities, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most lively cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Built by WWII Detainees

Seeing the chapel on Lamb Holm in Orkney is a profoundly moving experience with the craftsmanship and faith of its builders. During the Second World War, following a plea from the chaplain, artist Domenico Chiocchetti and his comrades converted two joined Nissen huts into a place of worship. From leftover materials of whatever they could find, they fashioned a beautiful space full of love and peace during a global conflict—an uplifting place to see many years later.

Writhing Stone Figures of Rodez, France

This pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame in the town of Rodez towers over the horizon for miles around. Perched on a hill above the Aveyron River, this immense, castle-like Gothic marvel has weathered centuries of construction, plague, and war. Inside is a gasp-inducing space of vaulted ceilings and towering columns, all framing a colossal organ. The intricately carved pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. The true attention, though, is often captured by the mesmerizing stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that seem to burst out of the outside stonework. They look less carved and more preserved in stone, like ancient guardians of this striking church.

Hidden History in an English Meadow

St Oswald's in Widford stands in a remote field, reachable solely by a rough track. Parking on a nearby grass verge, visitors walk towards a building that looks more like a barn from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but inside, evidence of an older Saxon or early Norman structure can be seen. Archaeological digs have uncovered ancient Roman tiles and partially uncovered medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in situ. The resulting atmosphere is one of mysterious, beautiful, and powerful tranquility.

A Stunning Paint Job in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

The village, near the historic city, is home to one of the most magnificent Orthodox churches one could encounter. From the outside, the Church of the Nativity is rather unassuming—a characteristic possibly designed to avoid suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. The inside, however, more than makes up for it. Virtually every surface is adorned with vibrant religious icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly overwhelming and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in the English Countryside

All Saints Church in Tudeley, Kent, founded in the 1100s, is structurally quite ordinary. The church's true glory, though, is its windows. Every single one were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. It started in 1963 with a commissioned piece dedicated to a family's daughter. Chagall was so impressed by the church that he decided to create the remaining panes, a task completed in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent spectrum of blues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful experience. Admission to this extraordinary treasure is gratis.