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Want to get off the beaten track on your next trip to Europe? We don’t blame you. While famous destinations like Rome, Amsterdam, and Paris are full of iconic attractions, they’re also notoriously overcrowded.
Exploring them can be stressful, expensive, and sometimes even disappointing – especially when mass tourism has detracted from the charm that made them famous in the first place.
Thankfully, Europe has many hidden gems that offer the best of both worlds. These lesser-known locations have rich histories, natural wonders, and unforgettable attractions, but (for now, at least) have managed to fly under the radar. In other words, you get to experience the best of this beautiful continent without the crowds. Here are 14 particularly special hidden gems in Europe to visit this year.
1. Aosta, Italy
Aosta is one of the only places on Earth where ancient Roman ruins stand in the shadow of snowcapped peaks. Located in northern Italy, this photogenic town is lovingly nicknamed the “little Rome of the Alps.” It’s home to the crumbling remains of a Roman theatre, amphitheatre, bridge, and triumphal archway (the Arch of Augustus), among others.
2. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Seeking an affordable vacation with access to breathtaking landscapes and timeless cities? Bosnia and Herzegovina would be perfect.
The picturesque town of Mostar, where an iconic reconstructed medieval bridge spans the river Neretva, is arguably the country’s main tourist destination. However, there’s so much more to see and enjoy here. A few other highlights include exploring the capital, Sarajevo, hiking up Bjelašnica mountain, visiting the remote settlement of Lukomir, and river rafting in Konjic.
3. The Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera is a sun-kissed paradise without the crowds (or prices) found at its French counterpart. This beautiful stretch of coastline along the Ionian Sea offers pristine sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, towering mountains, national parks, quaint fishing villages, bustling towns, and incredible world heritage sites. It's becoming more popular every year, so go sooner rather than later to see it at its best!
4. Piran, Slovenia
In lists of Europe’s most popular countries, Slovenia rarely ranks toward the top. But that deserves to change. Located northeast of Italy, this tiny country boasts spectacular scenery, a rich history, and vibrant cities.
In other words, Piran is a hidden gem within a hidden gem. One of several small towns on Slovenia’s tiny stretch of coast, it’s a picturesque spot with gorgeous sea views, medieval walls, cobbled streets, colorful town squares, fantastic seafood restaurants, and a busy harbor.
5. Léon, Spain
Looking for a Spanish city break without the crowds? Skip Madrid and Barcelona and try Léon instead. Located in northwest Spain, it has a first-rate food scene (if you want tapas, you’re in the right place), diverse architectural delights (including buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí and a magnificent 13th-century cathedral), a bustling pedestrianized centre, and so much more.
6. Primosten, Croatia
Primosten is a small resort town located roughly an hour north of Split on the Dalmatian coast. Originally an island that locals connected to the mainland in the 16th century, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing vacation. You can while away many happy days swimming in Primosten’s clear blue seas, sunbathing on its heavenly beaches, eating delicious fresh seafood, and enjoying leisurely waterfront walks.
7. The Faroe Islands
This wild and windswept archipelago rises dramatically from the dark waters of the North Atlantic. It’s one of Europe’s best-kept secrets – a set of islands with a unique history, immense mountainous landscapes, remote settlements, and countless sheep. Time seems to have stood still in the Faroes. There’s likely no better destination in Europe for someone who adores nature and wants to escape life’s usual hustle and bustle.
8. Graz, Austria
For a European city break without the crowds, visit Graz. Austria’s second-largest metropolis lacks the status of hotspots like Vienna and Salzburg, which makes it a considerably quieter choice. Even so, with a UNESCO-listed center, an armory packed with medieval weapons, a striking mix of modern and historic architecture, local markets, and first-rate museums, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
9. Staithes, England
Staithes is a sleepy seaside village in Yorkshire, northeast England, bursting with charm, an artsy vibe, and aesthetic appeal. It’s surrounded by verdant countryside and rugged cliffs, with cobbled streets overlooking a once-thriving harbor. Spend your days in Staithes strolling along its sheltered beach, frequenting the local pubs, and hunting for fossils along the coast.
10. Vikos Gorge, Greece
Northern Greece has unforgettable attractions and significantly fewer tourists than the Greek islands. The mighty Vikos Gorge is among its most famous sites.
Situated in the Pindus Mountains, this natural marvel is roughly 20 miles long and up to 1350 meters deep, making it one of the deepest gorges on Earth. With hiking trails connecting remote mountain villages, it’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to get off the beaten path.
11. Porto Santo Island, Portugal
Nicknamed the “Golden Island,” Porto Santo is a blissful Portuguese landmass in the Atlantic Ocean that’s covered in sugar-soft sand and lapped by turquoise waters. The weather is divine, rolling hills provide easy hiking opportunities, and there are restaurants aplenty in the capital, Vila Baleira. You’ll also find several noteworthy landmarks, including a house-museum where Christopher Columbus once lived.
12. Cirque de Gavarnie, France
Situated high in the French Pyrenees is one of the most beautiful places in France. Cirque de Gavarnie is a natural amphitheater where picture-perfect mountains tower over a verdant valley. Streaming from one of them is the highest waterfall on mainland France. The Grande Cascade de Gavarnie plunges 422 meters to the river below. On sunny days, you can hike and bike here until your heart’s content.
13. Ulm, Germany
Old meets new in the south German city of Ulm. Bombed heavily in World War 2, its cityscape contains a striking blend of modern buildings as well as those dating to the Middle Ages. The skyline is dominated by Ulm Minster – a breathtaking Gothic church with the tallest steeple on the planet. Elsewhere, you’ll find world-class museums, popular beer gardens, relaxing green spaces, and excellent restaurants.
14. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Love history? Go to Plovdiv in south-central Bulgaria. Thought to have been continually inhabited for around 8,000 years, this ancient city is older than Athens and Rome. On your trip, you can meander along cobbled streets in Plovdiv’s well-preserved Old Town, find the 11th-century Kisar Kapia Gate, see impressive Roman ruins (including 2nd-century Roman Stadium), and so much more.
Danny Newman
