Little known city named 'best in Europe' you can get to by train

A lesser-known European city, easily accessible by train from the UK, has been crowned as the best in Europe this year. Some have compared it to Amsterdam, but with a more peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

Amersfoort, the 15th largest city in the Netherlands, has been hailed as an example for the rest of the continent by the Academy of Urbanists (AoU). The city was awarded the title of European City of the Year at the AoU's annual Urbanism Awards last year, thanks to its innovative ideas and high quality of life for its residents.

Jon Phipps, European City Co-Lead Assessor for the AoU, praised Amersfoort saying: "Amersfoort benefits from a shared long-term vision for the city which prioritises improving citizens' quality of life. Well-resourced forward planning, development control, and regeneration teams enable this vision through detailed policies and impressive new infrastructure, while maintaining its unique heritage and character.

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"The wellbeing and happiness of all of citizens is clearly the focus." For Brits looking for a quick getaway, Amersfoort is conveniently linked to Amsterdam by train - which means you can get there by Eurostar.

The journey takes just 40 minutes, transporting visitors to a place offering a much more laid back experience. i described the city as: "Just 40 minutes away from Amsterdam by rail there is an alternative that offers heritage, canals and art with fewer crowds."

"In winter, its cobbled squares look much like the scenery of traditional city life."

"Fairy lights decorate the streets and the 15th-century Onze-Lieve-Vrouwetoren (The Tower of Our Lady), the third-highest church tower in the Netherlands, overlooks the city."

This tower is one of the city's most iconic sights, along with Koppelpoort and Kamperbinnenpoort - all prime examples of Amersfoort's Medieval architecture.

Originally, the tower was constructed alongside a church to honour a small clay statue of the Virgin Mary, which attracted pilgrims from far and wide due to its alleged miracle-performing abilities.

However, an explosion later destroyed the church, leaving the tower untouched.

Koppelpoort and Kamperbinnenpoort, on the other hand, are city gates that served as protective barriers against attacks and unwanted visitors.

Another part of the city's defensive structure is the Monnikendam, a water gateway.

Visit Utrecht labels these walls as a "must see" when in Amersfoort.

More of the city's charming architecture can be found in the Murrhuizen area - a collection of homes built during the city's expansion in the 15th century.

These homes were constructed using remnants of the old wall after it was demolished, resulting in a unique, haphazard style that adds both historical and aesthetic value.

Christmas is arguably the best time to visit Amersfoort, as each borough hosts a festive celebration over a designated weekend.

Unquestionably, the highlight of this season is the Warme Wintermarkt in De Nieuwe Stad. A market that offers a wide variety of festive treats and unique Christmas gifts.

Additionally noteworthy is the lantern parade taking place in Soesterkwartie and another Yuletide market at Elleboogkerk (Elleboog church), where locals gather for hot chocolate and mulled wine indulgence.

Amersfoort provides further attractions for alcohol connoisseurs such as the Stadsbrouwerij De Drie Ringen brewery.

This establishment, located with a charming view of Koppelpoort gate, invites guests to savour an array of interesting brews accompanied by some light bites, next to the picturesque canal.

During their stay, guests can immerse themselves in the city's impressive historical narrative. Visit Utrecht beautifully encapsulates this by stating it feels like a journey through time.

Their statement read: "Amersfoort's greatest treasure is its rich past. Its multitude of historic buildings, quaint streets, canals and subtle details transport you to the city's medieval roots."

"It has wall-houses, splendid city gates and a multitude of historic sites, to visit Amersfoort is to step far back into the past."