7 Most Beautiful Universities in Europe

With its world-class education and high standards of living, Europe is an unmatched part of the world to study in. Obtaining a qualification in Europe has been proven to give you much better career prospects and recognition from employers worldwide. Tuition fees are also generally much lower than the US, and as a bonus, you have the opportunity to travel the continent with ease.

As part of our series of beautiful university campuses, we now take a virtual journey into Europe to discover seven stunning campuses across its various countries.

7) Ku Leuven (Leuven, Belgium)

Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, also known as Ku Leuven, is a prominent and prestigious research university located in Leuven, Belgium. It is one of the oldest and most renowned universities in Europe, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1425. KU Leuven was founded by Pope Martin V and was originally established as a Catholic university. While the university maintains its Catholic heritage, it is open to students and faculty of all religious backgrounds and beliefs. It promotes a spirit of dialogue and tolerance. It offers programs in both Dutch and English, making it accessible to a diverse international student body.

6) Jagiellonian University (Kraków, Poland)

Jagiellonian University, often referred to as Uniwersytet Jagielloński in Polish, is a prestigious institution located in Kraków, Poland that has been around since 1364.. It was founded by King Casimir III the Great and is named after the Jagiellonian dynasty. It is one of the oldest universities in Europe, pre-dating many other famous institutions like the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford.

Jagiellonian University’s campus in Kraków is spread across the historic city center and features a combination of historic and modern buildings. Many of the buildings date back several centuries and feature stunning architecture with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. The Collegium Maius, the oldest building of the university, is a prime example of this architectural heritage.

5) Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (Milan, Italy)

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, commonly known as Cattolica, is a prestigious private university in Italy, and one of the largest and most respected Catholic universities in Europe. As a Catholic university, Cattolica emphasizes the integration of faith and reason in education and research. While it maintains its Catholic identity, it is open to students and faculty from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. has multiple campuses throughout Italy, with its main campus located in Milan. The university’s multicampus structure allows students to access a variety of academic programs and experiences in different Italian cities.

4) University of Salamanca (Salamanca, Spain)

The University of Salamanca, located in Salamanca, Spain, is one of Europe’s oldest universities, founded in 1218. The campus is renowned for its stunning historic architecture, with buildings dating back centuries. The main university building, the “Plateresque,” is particularly notable for its ornate Renaissance style. The university’s main square, known as the “Patio de Escuelas,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features intricate facades. It is a central gathering point that also hosts various academic ceremonies and events. Salamanca is a charming and historic city known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, and is a popular destination for international students learning Spanish.

3) Moscow State University (Moscow, Russia)

Moscow State University, officially known as Lomonosov Moscow State University, was founded in 1755 by a prominent Russian scientist, and polymath. It is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the world and is widely regarded as the leading university in Russia. The main campus of Moscow State University is located on Sparrow Hills (Vorobyovy Gory) overlooking the Moscow River. The iconic main building, known as the “Stalinist skyscraper,” is a prominent feature of Moscow’s skyline and is often used as a symbol of the university. The building’s design is characterized by its imposing, neoclassical architecture.

2) Sorbonne University (Paris, France)

Known as Université Sorbonne in French, this prestigious university has a history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was founded in 1257 by Robert de Sorbon, a chaplain and confessor of King Louis IX of France. It is one of the oldest universities in Europe and has played a pivotal role in the history of education. The university is spread across several campuses in Paris, each specializing in different fields of study. The historic main campus, known as the Sorbonne, is located in the Latin Quarter of Paris and is famous for its beautiful architecture. It is actively involved in cutting-edge research across several disciplines, and home to numerous research centers and institutes that are dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing global challenges.

1) University of Coimbra

Founded in 1290, the University of Coimbra is one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world. Its historical roots are deeply intertwined with the development of Portuguese education and culture. It’s no surprise to have made the top spot on our list; The university’s main campus, known as the “University of Coimbra – Alta and Sofia,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of historic buildings, libraries, and gardens, making it a culturally significant and visually stunning place. Coimbra is known for its language and cultural programs, attracting students and researchers interested in Portuguese language, culture, and history. It is home to the Camões Institute, which promotes Portuguese language and culture worldwide. It’s impressive library has also made it onto our global top 10 list.

Study Abroad in Europe

Interested in apply to study at these universities? You can browse through the various programs and other great universities on our platform, and click “Apply Now” when you’re ready to apply. Our experienced student advisors are also available to discuss your options on a free call. All the best on your academic journey!

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