Best Cities in Europe to Start a Business in 2024

A few decades ago, setting up their business in a country other than their home country was a logistical nightmare for entrepreneurs. However, with increasing globalization and connectivity, it is now possible for entrepreneurs to start their business from anywhere in the world. 

Europe has emerged as a top startup hub, providing thousands of startups with the necessary resources, legislation, and culture for businesses to thrive. 

In this article, we will look at the best cities in Europe that your business can call home. Our best-in-class business registration services allow you to start your US business anywhere, even in Europe.

12 Best European Cities to Start Your Business

Europe is a multicultural continent that offers its inhabitants the best of cultures, governments, tax regimes, and innovation. From Scandinavia to the Balkans, Europe has something to offer every entrepreneur. Here are the 12 best cities to set up your business. 

1. London, United Kingdom 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

London remains a global financial powerhouse and a magnet for startups. It offers extensive funding opportunities, a robust legal framework, and a diverse talent pool.

London’s thriving financial district, often called “The City,” hosts some of the world’s largest financial institutions and provides a solid foundation for fintech, insurance, and banking businesses. 

Additionally, the city’s renowned universities, such as Imperial College and University College London, supply a steady stream of highly skilled graduates eager to join innovative ventures.

London’s cosmopolitan nature makes it a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and business opportunities.

Entrepreneurs can benefit from various networking events, conferences, and trade shows that facilitate connections with potential partners, investors, and customers. 

Despite the high cost of living, the city’s vibrant lifestyle, rich cultural scene, and excellent public transportation system add to its appeal as a business hub.

2. Berlin, Germany 🇩🇪

Berlin has emerged as a leading startup hub in Europe, known for its affordable living costs, creative atmosphere, and strong support networks. 

The German city has become a haven for tech startups, with numerous coworking spaces, incubators, and accelerators fostering innovation and collaboration. 

The city’s multicultural environment attracts entrepreneurs worldwide, contributing to a dynamic and diverse business ecosystem.

The German capital’s strong focus on research and development, supported by institutions like the Fraunhofer Society and Humboldt University, makes it an ideal location for tech-driven businesses. 

Additionally, Berlin offers a high quality of life with its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and extensive green spaces.

Entrepreneurs in Berlin can also take advantage of the city’s strategic location, providing easy access to other major European markets.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands 🇳🇱

Amsterdam boasts a highly skilled workforce, excellent infrastructure, and a strong focus on innovation. The city’s strategic location within Europe makes it an ideal gateway for international business. 

Known for its pro-business policies, Amsterdam offers various tax incentives and grants to startups, making it easier for new businesses to establish themselves and grow. 

Numerous incubators, accelerators, and innovation hubs, such as Amsterdam Science Park and StartupAmsterdam, support the Dutch capital’s vibrant tech scene.

The city’s progressive attitude towards technology and sustainability has attracted many green and tech-focused startups. 

Amsterdam’s high quality of life, characterized by its picturesque canals, rich cultural heritage, and efficient public transportation, further enhances its appeal to entrepreneurs.

4. Stockholm, Sweden 🇸🇪

Stockholm is renowned for its tech-savvy population and thriving startup ecosystem. Often referred to as the “Unicorn Factory” due to its many billion-dollar startups, Stockholm offers a supportive environment for new ventures. 

The city’s emphasis on innovation and sustainability is evident in its robust public policies and initiatives encouraging research and development.

The Swedish capital’s high standard of living and commitment to work-life balance attract top talent worldwide.

Stockholm’s extensive network of incubators, such as SUP46 and Sting, provides startups with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed.

Additionally, the city’s well-developed infrastructure and connectivity make it easy for businesses to operate and expand internationally.

5. Paris, France 🇫🇷

Paris offers a rich cultural heritage and a growing startup scene.

The French government has introduced various initiatives to support entrepreneurship, including tax incentives and funding programs such as the French Tech Visa and Bpifrance. 

Paris is powerful in fashion, technology, and creative industries, benefiting from its global reputation and extensive network of industry professionals.

The city’s high concentration of research institutions and universities, such as Sorbonne University and École Polytechnique, ensures a steady stream of talent and innovative ideas. 

Paris’s central European location provides easy access to other major markets, making it an ideal base for international business operations.

The city’s blend of historic charm and modern amenities creates an inspiring environment for entrepreneurs to thrive.

6. Barcelona, Spain 🇪🇸

Barcelona combines a high quality of life with a dynamic startup ecosystem. Institutions like Barcelona Tech City and the Catalonia Trade & Investment Agency support the city’s focus on technology and innovation. 

Barcelona’s appealing Mediterranean lifestyle, characterized by its pleasant climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, attracts entrepreneurs and talent worldwide.

The Catalan capital offers a range of incentives for startups, including grants, tax breaks, and coworking spaces. Barcelona’s strategic location on the Mediterranean coast makes it a gateway to Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. 

The city’s well-connected transportation network and international airport facilitate easy travel and logistics for businesses looking to expand their reach.

7. Dublin, Ireland 🇮🇪

Dublin is a prominent tech hub, home to many multinational companies and a thriving startup community. The city’s low corporate tax rates and English-speaking environment make it an attractive destination for business owners. 

Dublin’s strong focus on education and research, supported by institutions like Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin, ensures a steady supply of skilled talent.

The Irish capital’s vibrant tech scene is bolstered by organizations such as Enterprise Ireland and Dublin Startup Commissioner, which provide funding and support for new ventures. 

Dublin’s compact size and friendly atmosphere create a close-knit business community, encouraging networking and collaboration. The city’s rich cultural heritage and lively social scene further enhance its appeal to entrepreneurs.

8. Copenhagen, Denmark 🇩🇰

Copenhagen is known for its high standard of living, sustainable practices, and supportive business environment. The city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its numerous green initiatives and focus on clean technology. 

Copenhagen offers excellent infrastructure, including efficient public transportation and a well-developed digital network, making it easy for businesses to operate and grow.

The Danish capital’s strong emphasis on education and research, supported by institutions like the University of Copenhagen and the Technical University of Denmark, ensures a steady stream of talent and innovative ideas. 

Copenhagen’s vibrant startup ecosystem is supported by organizations such as Copenhagen Capacity and Danish Startup Group, which provide resources, funding, and mentorship for new ventures.

The city’s picturesque setting and high quality of life make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and their families.

9. Vienna, Austria 🇦🇹

Vienna offers a strategic location in Central Europe, a high quality of life, and a well-developed infrastructure. The city’s strong focus on education and research, supported by institutions like the Vienna University of Technology and the Austrian Institute of Technology, ensures a steady stream of skilled talent and innovative ideas. 

Vienna’s central location provides easy access to major European markets, making it an ideal base for international business operations.

The Austrian capital’s vibrant startup ecosystem is supported by organizations such as the Vienna Business Agency and Austrian Startups, which provide resources, funding, and mentorship for new ventures. 

Vienna’s rich cultural heritage, characterized by its historic architecture, world-class museums, and lively arts scene, creates an inspiring environment for entrepreneurs.

The city’s excellent public transportation system and high quality of life enhance its appeal to business owners.

10. Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹

Lisbon is gaining popularity as a startup hub due to its affordable living costs, pleasant climate, and vibrant tech scene. 

The city’s strong focus on technology and innovation is supported by institutions like Startup Lisboa and the Portuguese Startup Scene. 

Lisbon offers various incentives for entrepreneurs, including grants, tax breaks, and coworking spaces, making it easier for new businesses to establish themselves and grow.

The Portuguese capital’s strategic location on the Atlantic coast makes it a gateway to European and African markets.

Lisbon’s well-connected transportation network and international airport facilitate easy travel and logistics for businesses looking to expand their reach. 

The city’s rich cultural heritage, characterized by its historic neighborhoods, stunning architecture, and lively arts scene, creates an inspiring environment for entrepreneurs. 

Lisbon’s high quality of life, with its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant social scene, further enhances its appeal to business owners.

11. Helsinki, Finland 🇫🇮

Helsinki is known for its innovative culture and strong support for startups. The city’s focus on education, technology, and sustainability is evident in its numerous initiatives and public policies encouraging research and development. 

Helsinki’s vibrant startup ecosystem is supported by organizations such as the Helsinki Business Hub and Aalto Startup Center, which provide resources, funding, and mentorship for new ventures.

The Finnish capital’s high standard of living and commitment to work-life balance attract top talent worldwide. Helsinki’s well-developed infrastructure and connectivity make it easy for businesses to operate and expand internationally. 

The city’s picturesque setting, characterized by its stunning coastline, beautiful parks, and unique architecture, inspires entrepreneurs. Helsinki’s strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation further enhances its appeal to business owners.

12. Tallinn, Estonia 🇪🇪

Tallinn is a digital leader. It offers a unique e-residency program that allows entrepreneurs to start and manage their businesses online. 

The city’s tech-savvy population and supportive government policies make it a top choice for digital entrepreneurs. Organizations such as Startup Estonia and Tehnopol support Tallinn’s vibrant startup ecosystem, which provides resources, funding, and mentorship for new ventures.

The Estonian capital’s strong focus on education and technology, supported by institutions like the Tallinn University of Technology and the University of Tartu, ensures a steady stream of skilled talent and innovative ideas. 

Tallinn’s well-developed digital infrastructure and connectivity make it easy for businesses to operate and grow.

The city’s rich cultural heritage, characterized by its medieval architecture, historic old town, and lively arts scene, creates an inspiring environment for entrepreneurs. 

Tallinn’s high quality of life, affordable living costs, beautiful natural surroundings, and vibrant social scene enhance its appeal to business owners.

How doola Can Help You 

With doola by your side, running your US business from anywhere in Europe is as simple as a few clicks. Moreover, With the doola Total Compliance package, we take care of your bookkeeping and taxes, among other things. 

doola has been enabling entrepreneurs from all around the globe to realize their business dreams by setting up a US business. Our exceptional team and partner network are robust enough to handle all your business needs. 

Sign up for a free consultation today and experience the difference doola can make for your business. 

FAQs

Why should I consider starting my business in Europe?

Europe offers diverse cities with robust infrastructure, supportive business environments, and access to a multicultural talent pool. 

Each city provides unique advantages, such as strategic locations, innovation hubs, tax incentives, and a vibrant quality of life, making Europe an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

What are the benefits of starting a business in London?

London is a global financial hub with extensive funding opportunities, a strong legal framework, and a diverse talent pool. It also offers numerous networking events, conferences, and trade shows. 

Despite its high cost of living, London’s vibrant lifestyle, rich cultural scene, and excellent public transportation system add to its appeal.

How does Berlin support startups?

Berlin is known for its affordable living costs, creative atmosphere, and strong support networks, making it a haven for tech startups. 

The city offers numerous coworking spaces, incubators, and accelerators. Berlin’s focus on research and development, supported by institutions like the Fraunhofer Society, makes it ideal for tech-driven businesses.

What makes Amsterdam a good business place?

Amsterdam boasts a highly skilled workforce, excellent infrastructure, and a strong focus on innovation. The city’s pro-business policies, including tax incentives and grants, make it easier for startups to establish and grow. 

Amsterdam’s quality of life, characterized by picturesque canals and efficient public transportation, further enhances its appeal.

What unique advantages does Tallinn offer for digital entrepreneurs?

Tallinn is a digital leader with a unique e-residency program that allows entrepreneurs to start and manage their businesses online. 

The city’s tech-savvy population and supportive government policies make it a top choice for digital entrepreneurs. 

Tallinn offers strong support networks, including organizations like Startup Estonia, and boasts a well-developed digital infrastructure.