Minsk in Belarus, renowned for friendly locals, clean streets and leafy parks, came in second.

This city has come back from the dead many times, not least when it was reduced to rubble during WWII, Minsk is a European capital with a defiant Soviet identity.

Compared to most Europena cities, there isn't really that much to do and so is best enjoyed as a place to stroll around for a few days soaking up its unique atmosphere.