'Best city in Europe' you can get to by train from UK - and it's not Amsterdam

A lesser-known European city, easily reached by train from the UK, has been named Europe's best. Compared to Amsterdam but with more relaxed vibes, Amersfoort, the 15th most populous city in the Netherlands, was recognised as an example for Europe to follow by the Academy of Urbanists (AoU).

Due to its innovative concepts and highly valued living conditions for its residents, the city scooped the title of European City of the Year at the AoU's Urbanism Awards last year. Jon Phipps, Co-Lead Assessor for European City at the AoU, lauded Amersfoort, stating: "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. The wellbeing and happiness of all of citizens is clearly the focus."

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For Brits searching for a quick escape, Amersfoort can be swiftly accessed from Amsterdam by train - a trip perfectly suited to Eurostar travel, reports Birmingham Live.

The ride lasts a mere 40 minutes, landing visitors into a locale promising a far more tranquil experience. The i newspaper labelled 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 iconic tower, along with Koppelpoort and Kamperbinnenpoort, are prime examples of Amersfoort's Medieval architecture. Originally, the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwetoren was part of a church built to honour a small clay statue of the Virgin Mary, believed to perform miracles, drawing pilgrims from afar.

However, an explosion destroyed the church, leaving only the tower standing. Koppelpoort and Kamperbinnenpoort served as fortified city gates, protecting Amersfoort from invasions and unwelcome guests.

Another significant structure is the Monnikendam, a water gateway that formed part of the city's defences. Visit Utrecht recommends these historical sites as a "must see" in Amersfoort.

The Muurhuizen area showcases charming architecture, with homes built from the remnants of the old city wall, creating a distinctive and historically rich style. Christmas time is particularly magical in Amersfoort, with each district celebrating the festive season over consecutive weekends.

One of the season's top attractions is the Warme Wintermarkt in De Nieuwe Stad, offering a plethora of festive treats and unique Christmas gifts. Likewise, worth mentioning is a lantern parade happening in Soesterkwartie plus another festive market at ElleboogkerkElleboog church, where residents converge over mugs of hot chocolate and warm mulled wine.

For beer enthusiasts, Amersfoort showcases further attractions like the Stadsbrouwerij De Drie Ringen brewery. Positioned with a spectacular view of the Koppelpoort gate, the establishment welcomes guests to sample a range of intriguing brews alongside some light refreshments, by the scenic canal.

During their visit, guests have the opportunity to delve deep into the city's rich historical narrative. As Visit Utrecht so accurately captures: "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."