The Unexpected Cities That Start with E

E is for Eccentric: Cities That Start with the Fifth Letter

We present the cities that start with E. Those sprawling concrete jungles we call home, where dreams are chased (or at least get stuck on a crowded subway platform), pigeons steal your lunch (seriously, those birds have zero respect for personal space), and tourists flock to landmarks that look exactly like they do in the travel brochures (been there, done that, got the overpriced selfie stick). But beneath the surface of these familiar urban landscapes lies a world waiting to be explored. And guess what? Many of these hidden gems have names that start with the most exciting, the most energetic letter of the alphabet: E.

Ditch the predictable guidebooks and pack your sense of adventure, because we’re about to embark on a whirlwind tour of E-xceptional (see what I did there?) cities that defy expectations and will leave you saying, “Wait, a city called THAT actually exists?” Here are some cities that start with E:

Edinburgh, Scotland: Where History Meets Haggis (and Maybe a Ghost or Two)

Edinburgh, Scotland‘s historic capital, is a city steeped in atmosphere. Furthermore, Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a volcanic rock, dominates the skyline, a silent sentinel guarding the city below. Wander the narrow, cobbled streets of the Old Town, past ancient buildings and charming pubs, and you can almost hear the echoes of kilted warriors and bagpipes.

But Edinburgh offers more than just a history lesson. This lively city boasts a world-famous Fringe Festival, a celebration of theater, comedy, and everything in between. For the slightly more adventurous, there are ghost tours aplenty, promising spooky encounters in the city’s many allegedly haunted buildings (just don’t blame me if you spend the night with the lights on). And of course, no trip to Scotland is complete without trying haggis – a sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs boiled in a sheep’s stomach. It’s… an acquired taste, to say the least.

Essaouira, Morocco: The Chilled-Out Coastal Town (and Maybe a Few Cats… Lots of Cats)

Essaouira, Morocco‘s “Windy City,” is a laid-back haven for those seeking a slower pace of life. This charming coastal town boasts beautiful beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and a stunning medina (old town) filled with labyrinthine alleys and colorful shops. Wander through the souks, haggling for everything from hand-woven rugs to questionable knock-off sunglasses (it’s all part of the experience!), and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

But Essaouira is more than just a shopping haven. This city is a haven for artists, with a thriving arts scene and a relaxed bohemian vibe. Take a surfing lesson at one of the many beaches, or simply relax on the sand and watch the world go by. Just be prepared to share your beach towel with a few friendly—or maybe not so friendly—stray cats. The city of Essaouira has a serious feline population.

Eugene, Oregon: Where Outdoor Adventure Meets Craft Beer (and Maybe a Few Hippies… Just Kidding… Maybe)

Eugene, Oregon, is a city for nature lovers. Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Eugene offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Hike through lush forests, kayak down crystal-clear rivers, or simply explore the city’s many parks and green spaces. After a day of exploring, refuel with a locally brewed craft beer – Eugene boasts a thriving microbrewery scene, with pubs serving everything from IPAs to experimental sours (just be prepared to discuss your hop preferences with alarming seriousness).

But Eugene isn’t just about nature and beer. This city has a vibrant counterculture scene, a legacy of the 1960s that lives on in its independent bookstores, quirky cafes, and overall laid-back vibe. Just don’t be surprised if you see someone walking down the street barefoot and sporting a tie-dye shirt.

Esztergom, Hungary: Where History Meets the Danube (and Maybe a Thermal Bath or Two)

Esztergom, Hungary, is a city steeped in history. Once the capital of Hungary, Esztergom boasts a stunning basilica, the largest church in the country, that dominates the skyline. Explore the Esztergom Castle, a sprawling complex offering panoramic views of the Danube River. You can also visit the surrounding countryside. History buffs will be in heaven, while everyone else can appreciate the architectural beauty and sheer scale of these historic landmarks.

But Esztergom offers more than just a history lesson. This city is known for its thermal baths and natural hot springs, which have been enjoyed for centuries. Soak in the warm water, relax your muscles, and let the stress of modern life melt away. We hope you enjoyed reading about the cities that start with E.