quaint places to visit in europe

The Most Beautiful Small Towns in Europe

Too many travelers overlook small towns in Europe. When it comes to European vacations, big culture-driven cities like Rome and Paris tend to get all the attention. But between all the landmarks and selfie-taking tourists, you’ll find hundreds of charming spots in Europe with populations smaller than the line for the Eiffel Tower. And despite their petite size, they still offer the same great architecture and beautiful natural surroundings as their metropolitan counterparts.

Whether it's a lakeside hamlet in Austria or a hauntingly beautiful village in Romania , these 26 storybook towns are the stuff European dreams are made of. Fair warning: There are many charming bell towers and cobblestoned streets ahead.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Guimarães, Portugal

Population: 152,309

The northern town of Guimarães is often referred to as Portugal ’s “cradle city,” as the country’s first king, Afonso Henriques, was born here in the early 1100s. Lean into that sense of history in the UNESCO-listed city center, filled with excellent examples of Portuguese architecture (those tiles!) dating back 600 years. And while Guimarães may be a bit larger than the other entries on this list, its charming plazas and family-owned shops provide the same storybook feel that you’s find in some of Portugal’s tiniest villages.

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Population: 13,056

Do you love the look of Prague but hate the crowds? Enter Český Krumlov, an incredibly picturesque town in South Bohemia. Here you’ll find red-roofed houses, plazas with fountains, and a Gothic castle overlooking the Vltava River. Think of it as a small-scale Prague you can walk across in under 30 minutes.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Population: 2,452

The Alpine town of Lauterbrunnen is pretty in its own right, with chalet-style houses and small village churches. But its natural surroundings are what really steal the show: think towering rock faces, mountain peaks, flowery meadows, and some of the tallest free-flowing waterfalls in Europe. Fun fact: J.R.R. Tolkien used Lauterbrunnen as inspiration for the fictional valley of Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings .

Eguisheim, France

Population: 1,734

If you close your eyes and picture the perfect French village , it probably looks exactly like Eguisheim. The Alsace town has it all: half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and even a Christmas market come December. Be sure to stop by the Chapelle Saint-Léon IX, a pretty chapel with painted vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows depicting the Saints of Alsace.

Bled, Slovenia

Population: 8,171

There’s a reason Lake Bled is one of Slovenia's most popular sites. With its emerald waters, church-dotted islet, views of the Julien Alps, and 12th-century castle on a hill, you won’t be short on picture-perfect views. The surrounding town of Bled is just as charming, with candlelit restaurants and traditional wooden rowboats just waiting for visitors.

Mdina, Malta

Population: 243

Malta’s capital city of Valletta isn’t exactly huge, with a population under 6,000 and an area smaller than Central Park. But if you want to go even smaller, head to the fortified city of Mdina in the center of the island nation. Malta’s old capital has extraordinary examples of Medieval and Baroque architecture, with churches, catacombs, and palaces open for visitors to explore. The city boasts a bit of pop culture fame as well: It served as the filming location for the entrance to King’s Landing in the first season of Game of Thrones .

Ronda, Spain

Population: 33,978

One of the highlights of traveling around Andalusia is the seemingly endless supply of pueblos blancos (white towns) named for the uniform color of the houses. While there are many that exhibit the Moorish architecture and labyrinthine streets that define the region , there’s something extra special about Ronda—namely, its location. Set high in the mountains on the edge of a 400-foot cliff, the views of the valley below are stunning and the three bridges that span the canyon are mind-boggling feats of engineering.

Ribe, Denmark

Population: 8,168

Dating back more than 1,300 years, Ribe is the oldest town in Denmark —and, in fact, in all of Scandinavia. The city was established in the early eighth century, and while you can’t find any structures that date back to that time still standing today, the picturesque cathedrals and half-timbered houses on cobblestoned streets are well-worth a visit.

Portree, Scotland

Population: 2,480

The Isle of Skye is known for its sublime natural beauty , but it also happens to house one of the U.K.’s most charming little towns. Situated on the edge of Loch Portree, the capital city has rows of pastel-colored homes and pubs, with a flotilla of bright fishing and lobster boats stirring peacefully in the harbor outside.

Praiano, Italy

Population: 2,008

The town of Praiano (close to Positano) lies along the iconic Amalfi Coast, packed with beautiful beaches like Marina di Praia and Gavitella, and culture to boot. Come here for stunning ancient churches, towers, and sacred sculptures. The San Gennaro Church is a notable standout, with intricate tile floors and a ceramic dome that can be seen from most anywhere in town.

Dinant, Belgium

Population: 13,544

Nestled snugly in a cliff face on the Meuse River in Belgium’s Wallonia region, the tiny town of Dinant looks like the setting of a Disney movie—complete with skyline-defining Gothic cathedral and 16th-century castle (hedge maze included). Fun fact: Dinant also happens to be the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the—you guessed it—saxophone.

Giethoorn, Netherlands

Population: 2,620

Affectionately referred to as the “Venice of the Netherlands,” this village has no roads —just bike lanes and canals. Explore Giethoorn’s roof farmhouses and wooden arch bridges by boat, or by ice skating on the canals during the frozen winter months.

Hallstatt, Austria

Population: 779

There’s something special about Hallstatt, easily one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe. This fact is made evident when you pull up by ferry across the glassy lake, with mist rolling down from the towering Dachstein mountains. Within the UNESCO World Heritage town are churches that date to the 12th century, a buzzing market square, and plenty of cozy, candlelit restaurants. Bonus: Hallstatt is only an hour’s drive from Salzburg and three from Vienna , making it a relatively easy day trip from Austria’s larger and more touristed cities.

Castle Combe, England

Population: 344

Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village located in the southwest county of Wiltshire. No new houses have been built here since the 1600s, so the town is a well-preserved stretch of Cotswold stone cottages and old pubs and churches. For a real taste of the town, stop in for afternoon tea at the The Old Rectory Pop Up Tearoom.

Assos, Greece

Population: 88

The charming, bloom-filled village of Assos on Kefalonia is one of the most compelling reasons to visit the Greek Islands . The tiny hamlet sits at the bottom of a hill, surrounded by the strikingly blue Mediterranean Sea on three sides. Spend some time on the village’s pebble beach before loading up on Greek food in one of the traditional restaurants lining the marina. Seriously, do vacations get any better than that?

Kotor, Montenegro

Population: 13,510

At turns reminiscent of Norwegian fjords and Lake Como, the Bay of Kotor is lined with ancient, picturesque towns—including its namesake. Backed by steep limestone cliffs, Kotor’s UNESCO-protected Old Town draws visitors for its scenic location, but also for its history. Getting lost here is not only encouraged, but expected: Centuries ago, Old Kotor was built like a maze to confuse invaders.

Ísafjörður, Iceland

Population: 2,571

Located in Iceland’s unbelievably gorgeous Westfjords peninsula, the tiny town of Ísafjörður is nearly swallowed by the towering mountains surrounding it. With winter temperatures dipping down to the 20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures rarely reaching above the mid-50s, Ísafjörður is pretty much the opposite of your go-to Italian and Greek resort towns—and therein lies its appeal, especially if you prefer your vacations more rugged than ritzy.

Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Population: 13,083

Tucked between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean (and technically part of Denmark), the Faroe Islands have enough puffins and grass-roofed houses to keep travelers happy for days. The capital of Tórshavn is also the largest city on the archipelago, settled behind a busy harbor on the east coast of Streymoy Island. Within the 66.8-square-mile city are 18th-century churches, a handful of museums, a tiny Old Town, and rows of houses painted black and red.

Korcula, Croatia

Population: 5,663

One of the Croatia’s most popular islands , Korcula is renowned for its white wine and dense forests. Its biggest town, the eponymous Korcula, is known as “Little Dubrovnik” for its fortified medieval walls and narrow streets. Local legend says explorer Marco Polo was born here, and the site of his alleged birth is open to visitors.

Cobh, Ireland

Population: 12,800

Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbor. This town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers—about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic , and a commemorative museum stands in the city today.

Reine, Lofoten Islands

Population: 314

The beauty of the Lofoten Islands , just off of Norway’s northwestern coast, is truly unparalleled: think majestic fjords, frozen beaches dotted with surfers, and colorful fishing villages. Reine on the island of Moskenesøya is one such village, located above the Arctic Circle about 190 miles southwest of Tromsø. The town’s yellow, stilted buildings surrounded by jagged mountains and icy waters is about as picturesque as it gets.

Kastraki, Greece

Population: 560

The idyllic, red-roofed town of Kastraki has one of the best backdrops imaginable: the famous Meteora monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by the wildflower-filled countryside of mainland Greece. It’s hard to imagine a more impressive view than opening your blinds to see medieval buildings on pillars of rock that stretch a thousand feet into the sky.

Sighișoara, Romania

Population: 26,370

If you like your Eastern European towns to come with a fear factor, then the Transylvanian city of Sighișoara is for you. The historic town is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the vicious Prince of Wallachia who inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula . For the best thrills, you can tour his childhood home (which includes a tiny torture museum) or brave Holy Trinity Church’s eerie and creaky stairwell after dark. Not a fan of the macabre? Sighișoara’s UNESCO-protected historic center and streets lined with colorful houses provide a nice fairytale vibe—minus the bad guys.

Castelluccio, Italy

Population: <150

Located atop a steep hill 5,000 feet above sea level, Castellucio is the highest village in the Appenine Mountain Range—and arguably the most beautiful. On one side, the village is backed by snow-capped mountains, and on the other, lush, fertile plains that blossom with red poppies, violets, and rapeseed in the spring (time your visit to their flowering, from late May to early June). Sadly, a 2016 earthquake rendered the village virtually uninhabitable, but some remaining residents have re-opened shops and restaurants that visitors can pop into.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Population: 10,930

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its preserved medieval Old Town, draws millions of tourists each year with its made-for-Instagram multicolored facades. If you can swing it, plan your visit for December, when the town transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-dusted rooftops, glowing storefronts, and cozy taverns. And don't forget about the Reiterlesmarkt, one of the best Christmas markets in the entire country.

Flåm, Norway

Population: 350

Undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful cruise ports, the tiny village of Flåm welcomes ships passing through western Norway’s vast Sognefjord. The town is scattered with boldly colored houses and surrounded by unblemished green hills, but it’s perhaps best known for housing Flamsbana—the world’s steepest railway. Hop on the train in Flåm, which will take you past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks to the summit of Myrdal Mountain.

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23 Best hidden gems in Europe: off the beaten path places for 2023

Home » Destinations » Europe » 23 Best hidden gems in Europe: off the beaten path places for 2023

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Updated: 12th January 2023

Exploring the best hidden gems in Europe often means slow-rumbling scenic bus journeys through less-traversed valleys, epic hikes to almost-forgotten hamlets, or heart-thumping sailings to windswept isolated isles.

Some may call that inconvenient. I call it winning.

If you’re happiest pointing to a random place on a map called Počitelj – as I am often inclined – and dutifully heading there on a whim, then this list, my friends, is for you.

Of course, going off the beaten path in Europe will mean something different for everyone. Thus, I’ve aimed to include a decent balance between remote isles , secluded villages, under-the-radar sustainable city breaks , and lesser-visited lofty peaks.

Whether you’re looking for unique places to visit in Europe or just a city break that isn’t one of the usual suspects, I hope you’ll find a favourite amongst my picks of the best places to visit in Europe this year.

In no particular order, enjoy my 23 best Europe hidden gems for 2023 – let the new year of adventures commence!

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In this article...

1. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Remotest Corners

One of the best hidden gems in Europe for adventure activities, Ottoman architecture and remote communities

Can I get away with calling a whole county a hidden gem? Maybe not. Yet, for the most part, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains a relatively off-the-beaten-path – and affordable – destination in Europe.

After two deep dive visits, I’m convinced the country’s greatest asset is the mesmerising near-photoshopped lakes, the lush countryside, and the lofty hiking trails.

While Mostar is rightly famed for its Ottoman architecture and history-defining bridge, ‘doing’ B&H as a day trip from Dubrovnik will never give the nation the justice it deserves.

Some of my favourite lesser-visited spots ripe for adventure activities include the Neretva River and Zavala. Konjic is the place to go for relaxing river rafting – the water is so clear it might as well be Evian. Kravica Waterfall is another epic water-heavy spot, and the cascades are beyond photogenic.

In Zavala – population two – you can spend the night sleeping in a converted railway station. The abandoned tracks have now been reimagined as an epic cycling adventure. Heaven-reaching Bjelašnica mountain is also rich in trails, leading you to Lukomir , the most isolated hamlet in the country. Here, 1,495 meters above sea level, a community of shepherds, ancient tombstones, and timelessness await.

But the real magic for me in Bosnia and Herzegovina is those little moments. Whether it’s being serenaded by guitar as a chatty host pours homemade wine in Zavala, or sipping a sand-boiled Bosnian coffee overlooking the minarets of Ottoman Počitelj, it’s those journey-defining memories that capture the essence of ‘hidden Europe’ at its best.

Read more: Reasons to visit B&H

Plan your trip: Don’t rush; 7-14 days allows for a deeper dive into these unique places. Late spring through autumn is most suited for outdoor adventures, while winter brings snow and skiing to the peaks. Off-road jeep tours to the mountains can be good for reaching the remote villages, and Highlander Adventures offer a 5-day hiking tour on the Via Dinarica.

Top tip: If you’re struggling to find Sarajevo flights , check Tuzla or Dubrovnik as an alternative.

2. Graz, Austria

One of the most underrated European cities for a sustainable city break, served with a first-class culinary scene and architectural treasures

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is still something of a hidden gem on Europe’s city-break scene. Partly due to the lack of direct flight connections, but also because it doesn’t have the legendary status that Salzburg, Vienna or even the Austrian Alps commandeer. Don’t let that deter you; it’s very much the green city’s appeal.

Not only is Graz an extremely sustainable city break (especially if you arrive flight-free), but its setting, surrounded by the Styrian countryside, promises plenty of farm-to-fork dining. Prepare to reconsider all your ideas about Austrian cuisine, as this city takes fresh produce, creative recipes, and vegetarian plates to another level.

Unsurprisingly for a city which has earned two UNESCO designations, there are plenty of things to do in Graz .

On the one hand, Graz’s historic World Heritage-listed core delivers everything you’d expect from a grand European city. There are Italian-esque courtyards aplenty, medieval cobbled streets, the remains of a hilltop fortress, frescoed facades, grand avenues, and church spires climbing to the heavens.

Then you have the other side, where Graz’s status as a ‘City of Design’ shines through. A floating artificial island doubles as a small gallery, a somewhat out-of-place modern art museum presents like a tentacled alien, and up-and-coming neighbourhoods capture the best of off the beaten path Europe.

Graz is a city best savoured slowly; indeed one of my favourite unusual European destinations for a city-cum-countryside getaway.

Read more: Graz travel guide

Plan your trip: Stay at least two nights to soak up the city’s atmosphere; Graz is one of those places where it is just a pleasure to be and explore slowly. Summer and autumn are my suggestions.

Top tip: Trains are the best way to arrive to this Europe hidden gem, either from Vienna (2:30 hours) or Salzburg (4 hours). FlixBus also has long-distance connections.

3. Pico Island, The Azores, Portugal 

One of the best places to visit in Europe for lofty hikes, lava tunnel exploration, Atlantic swell and inspiring wines

With a flurry of new flight routes launching in 2023 – from as far afield as Boston and NYC – the Azores are enjoying a moment in the spotlight. While most attention is focused on São Miguel, the largest isle of the nine-strong archipelago, for a more off-the-beaten-path experience venture to Pico.

Literally called ‘peak’, it should be no surprise Portugal’s highest mountain crowns this verdant-cerulean speck in the Atlantic Ocean.

Towering up to the heavens – and often piercing the clouds – Mount Pico’s summit rewards with far-reaching vistas from 2,351 metres. New restrictions have come into force in 2023 to protect the fragile landscape, and a guide is highly recommended, especially on a night hike .

Adventures also continue far below the surface at Gruta das Torres. Here, you can venture inside the dark depths of the largest lava tube in Portugal and explore more of this unique island .

Back at ground zero, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pico’s vineyards provides a delicious curiosity. Weathered vines rise from the black volcanic rock, telling the back-breaking story of creating viniculture in such an adverse setting.

Then, out in the deep blue, marine-biologist-led boat tours will help you spot dolphins and whales in the wild. This hidden gem of Europe isn’t so easy to visit, but it certainly delivers the goods. 

Read more: Things to do in the Azores

Plan your trip: If you don’t want to DIY-it, Intrepid Travel offers this fast-paced 7-day tour of the Azores , including Pico. Sao Miguel is the primary international airport of the archipelago. Allow at least a week to hop the central three island group of Pico, Faial and São Jorge. Winter can be windy and wet – you’re isolated in the middle of the Atlantic.

Top tip: If you want to travel across the majority of the archipelago by ferry, the long-distance route only runs in summer.

4. Villa Romana del Casale, Italy 

One of the the best hidden gems in Europe for Roman mosaics on the grandest scale

At Villa Romana del Casale, you’ll find what UNESCO call “the finest mosaics in situ anywhere in the Roman world”.

While it might seem that such treasures should be in and around Rome , this well-preserved example is actually in the sun-kissed southern island of Sicily.

As you slowly stroll through the vast villa – constructed in the 4th century AD – you’ll have a constant stream of story-depicting tiles to admire which decorate every inch of floor below the raised walkways. It’s an absolutely mind-blowing site, deserving of its UNESCO recognition, and delivers a cultural side to everything else that Sicily , one of the best islands to visit , offers.

If you aren’t that far south but still want mosaic marvels, head to Palestrina, a 70-minute bus ride from Rome. Here, inside the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Palestrina , you can see the Hellenistic Nile Mosaic, which pre-dates christ. It’s a remarkable and detailed artwork depicting mythical scenes of Egypt.

Read more: Italy’s best experience

Plan your trip: Most of the site is covered, so good year-round. Allow at least two hours for a visit. Day tours from Palermo, which combine Villa Romana del Casale and the Valley of the Temples, can be worth booking if you’re short on time.

Top tip: On arrival at Piazza Armerina, shared taxis usually wait if you don’t want to walk. The cost is around €5pp.

5. Vipava Valley, Slovenia

Perfect for a mountain-backed eco-escape cycling between vineyards and private cellars

Slovenia’s finally getting the attention it deserves. The green city of Ljubljana is becoming a popular weekend break, and the mystical magic of Lake Bled is now a firm traveller favourite.

However, as I see from my Slovenian friends on Facebook, their beloved capital is starting to suffer over-tourism and the related property rent issues that always follow.

Thankfully, much of this lush country remains blissfully off the beaten path, and Vipava Valley is undoubtedly one of Europe’s best hidden gems for now.

Slow travel and sustainability aren’t buzzwords in Slovenia; they are a way of life, and nowhere is this truer than in Vipava Valley. A gorgeous canvas of greenery, hills and vineyards, you could easily mistake this for a Tuscan painting at first glance.

The joy of visiting Vipava is found while cycling or hiking between the hamlets, heading into the art-inspiring mountains, Paragliding powered by the valley’s beloved wind – affectionately nicknamed The Burja – or sampling every zero-kilometre food morsel that is put in front of you.

Then, there are the home-grown wines. With an unknown number of wine cellars here – everyone seems to have one under their house – even the most inauspicious homes often double up as a restaurant. Sipping these signature grapes, such as the indigenous Zelen, while hearing stories of times gone by in candle-lit cellars, is a travel memory you’ll treasure.

Read more: Exploring Vipava Valley

Plan your trip: Ideal for a long weekend or even one week – this underrated destination in Europe is a slow travel destination. Visit from spring through autumn. Trieste, in Italy, is a good arriving point, given Sloevenia’s limited flights.

Top tip: If you want to side trip from Ljubljana without a designated driver, there are day wine tours available. Or, get in touch with my friend Jani at Wajdusna for an active e-bike trip between the vines.

6. León, Spain

One of the best hidden gems in Europe for architecture-admirers seeking a laid-back city break

Spain is home to many of Europe’s hidden gems , even though they are often significant and famed cities. There are just frankly too many destinations in the country to visit, which makes even places like León something of an unusual Europe destination for many travellers.

But it shouldn’t be. This city has the lot.

There’s a great food scene, with an abundance of mouthwatering free-tapas bars packing out the pedestrianised centre. The nightlife is excellent while staying reasonably laid-back, and the city is compact, with the pumping bar quarter a labyrinth of delicious treats and late-night laughter.

León’s main draw, however, is its architecture – and being home to one of Gaudí’s designs has ensured it’s not an off the beaten path European destination for fans of the flamboyant architect. Casa Botines, one of his only works outside Catalonia, brings a Modernist contrast to the city’s otherwise aged-architectural treasures.

From marvelling at the impeccable 13th-century stained-glass windows in the cathedral – some of the best in Europe – to taking in the Romanesque frescoes of the basilica, grandeur and superb artistry are on full display here.

León might not be the most secret spot in Europe, but it steps up to the challenge of diverting people from the likes of Madrid with glee.

Read more: León in a weekend

Plan your trip: León’s architecture makes it one of the best cities in Spain at any time of the year, although winters can be chilly. Using high-speed rail, the journey from Madrid takes around 2 hours by train.

Top tip: Book a night in the Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro for an incredible heritage stay.

7. The Georgian Caucasus Mountains

One of the best Europe hidden gems for an affordable mountain retreat of epic hikes

Spanning from Georgia to Azerbaijan and connecting two continents, the Georgian Caucasus Mountains offer incredible hiking trails in the warmer months, while winter brings snowy escapades.

Georgia, especially the capital city of Tbilisi, has been gaining popularity in the digital nomad community for years, thanks to the one-year visa and low nomad tax rates. Still, you’ll find the real community magic of the nation amongst the highest peaks.

Dormant Mount Kazbek, climbing to an elevation of 5,055 metres, is a real sight to behold. The surrounding area around Stepantsminda – a starting-point town – is one of the most popular year-round destinations thanks to its position on the principal Georgia to Russia highway keeping this range (usually) accessible.

Monasteries sit above the clouds, friendly dogs will volunteer to be your trekking ‘guides’, and hospitable homestays will start as a place to crash, before quickly becoming a home with new Chacha (home-brewed brandy) plying friends. The food, from twisted-dough Khinkali dumplings to the cheese-stuffed Khachapuri bread, is the pièce de résistance.

Plan your trip: Outstanding year-round, the snowy peaks can make road access in winter an occasional challenge. Kutaisi airport usually provides more affordable flight connections than Tbilisi. Either come for a couple of days or a more extended hiking escape.

Top tip: Public buses are cheap and relatively frequent from Tbilisi, while group day tours provide an easy, and still affordable, option.

8. The Hague, The Netherlands

One of the best places to visit in Europe for politics and history, beach bars and brews, and plenty of learning

The Hague is one of my favourite underrated European city breaks, and it’s fair to say I was shocked by how cool it is.

For many, Amsterdam is the one-stop go-to in The Netherlands, leaving much of the nation’s other destinations as Europe hidden gem. While that might not be the case here – the city’s world-famous for its international courts – it makes for a great weekend without the often unbearable crowds of the capital.

I was impressed with the fantastic food and bar scene, especially for vegetarians . Then there are the in-depth and fascinating museums such as the refugee-focused Humanity House (currently closed) and the Mauritshuis, home to Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. Along the golden sand beach, there are plenty of chic beach clubs, and of course, the critical work the city does internationally for Peace and Justice .

It might not have as many canals or the coffee shops of Amsterdam, but it makes up for it with the laid-back vibes, friendly locals, and culture to gorge on. Seriously, if you are looking for a new European city break in 2023, you can’t go wrong with The Hague.

Read more: The Hague weekend guide

Plan your trip: The Hague makes a decent year-round visit. The beaches are best in summer, and September is a great time to visit. It’s also a more laid-back base to Amsterdam for day trips.

Top tip: The Peace Palace only opens for general public tours a few days of the year. If you want to visit, plan dates around the Peace and Justice weekend .

9. Berat, Albania

One of the best Europe hidden gems for an enchanting village escape after the beaches

Berat – Albania’s cutest village – is often called the ‘City of a Thousand Windows’. On arrival, it’s obvious why, as you gawk at the whitewashed Ottoman houses hugging the side of the fortress-crowned hill.

Atop it all is Berat Castle, with its more than 2500 years of history. Much of what you see today dates from the 13th century, though Byzantine churches are still visible. We arrived here intending to spend one night in the castle walls, but quickly extended our stay to enjoy two days in Berat .

Albania, in general, has recently gone from a lesser-visited hidden gem in Europe, to an in-the-know paradisiacal beach escape. Still, the country’s interior has plenty more to offer, including Gjirokaster, Lake Komani and Bogovë Nature Park – especially the secluded waterfall.

If you don’t have The Balkans on your radar, take a virtual tour of Muslim Europe in the delightful book Minarets in the Mountains . Written by my fellow LP-writer Tharik Hussain, it provides a look at the Muslim history of Europe that’s often not spoken about. 

Read more: Things to do in Albania

Plan your trip: Many people visit Berat as a stop between Tirana and Ksamil’s beaches. But do yourself a favour and stay at least one night – the wide windows under the orange hue make for a magnificent evening setting.

Top tip: Stay in the castle walls. I adored Guesthouse Kris , and the hosts were super friendly – we’re still in touch years later.

10. The Asitz Mountain, Austria

One of the most unique places to visit in Europe for a sustainable summer hike of culture, art and escapism

One of my most recent Europe hidden gem finds is the region of Saalfelden Leogang , set in the Austrian Alps. While many would think of this corner of the world as the ideal winter ski destination, I visited at the start of summer and boy, am I glad I did.

The two towns that make up this region are adorable. Saalfelden is more urban, Leogang is more rural, and the entire valley is absolutely stunning. However, the main reason to venture to this part of Austria is for an unforgettable mountain experience atop the lofty peaks of the Asitz Mountain .

Reaching 655 metres at its highest, this beautiful winter ski destination is also renowned for exhilarating and intense mountain biking routes. Locally known as ‘the mountain of senses’, there is much more to this part of the jagged range than just extreme sports.

Something of a secret European destination still, culture lovers will be well rewarded after riding the gondola to the top. Summer sees art and sculpture trails through the forest for the eyes, water features for paddling, herb gardens for the senses, a ‘nature cinema’, and most magically, outdoor concerts performed against an incredible mountain lake backdrop.

You’ll also find cultured wooden huts – TONspurs – on the mountain. Inside, you can lay back and enjoy the panorama while listening to previous concerts playing through the headrest. Honestly, it’s one of my new favourite European destinations.

Read more: Exploring the Asitz Mountain

Plan your trip: A long weekend or even longer – this is a slow travel destination. In summer, it’s all about hikes and the arts, while the winter snow brings skiing and snowboarding. Train travel from the UK is possible by overnighting and then taking the Alpine Express. The nearest airports are Innsbruck and Salzburg.

Top tip: Stay at the Stockinggut Leogang. It’s a great spot with grand views. See my review here .

11. Porto Santo Island, Portugal

One of the hidden gems in Europe for lazy beach days and winter sun 

Madeira, one of my favourite islands, is another Portuguese destination enjoying its moment in the spotlight. But the largest isle, renowned for its epic hikes and volcanic coastline, isn’t the only option in the archipelago. 

A three-hour ferry away is Porto Santo, the ‘baby-sister’ if you will. Here, it’s a whole other vibe and picture, and the country’s newest biosphere reserve remains one the best off the beaten path Europe beach escapes.

Lauding a nine-kilometre stretch of golden sands – hard to find on the main island where darker shores prevail– this is a perfect place to bury yourself in a book and top-up the tan. For some soft adventure, the rolling hills backing the island make for easy hiking routes.

With a mixture of accommodation options, ranging from upscale resorts to down-to-earth home rentals, Porto Santo is all about easy days relaxing, rounded off with fresh-seafood and spectacular sunsets. Honestly, it’s more of a beach with an island than an island with a beach.

Read more: Madeira in photos

Plan your trip: You could enjoy a beach week or make it a short visit combined with Madeira. The climate is fairly decent year-round. In winter, I basically had the whole beach to myself – though it wasn’t quite tanning weather.

Top tip: It’s often easier and cheaper to fly to Madeira and take the ferry than into Porto Santo directly. In summer, a ferry service operates from mainland Portugal to Madeira for a flight-free choice.

12. Castelmezzano, Italy

One of the most unique places to visit in Europe for that dream mountain village getaway

Perched against the backdrop of the Dolomiti Lucane, Castelmezzano is one of Italy’s most beautiful small villages.

We stumbled upon it after a last-minute detour decision during a southern Italy road trip , and my heart leapt the second the cluster of ochre roofs came into view. Set in the lesser-visited European region of Basilicata, head here for a countryside bolthole.

On the opposite mountain, you’ll find Castelmezzano’s ‘twin’ – Pietrapertosa. Linking them both is The Angel’s Flight – a high-speed zip wire that whisks you between these two beguiling peak-snuggled villages.

While the town is mesmerising – especially when viewed from a distance to admire its unique location – the surrounding area is full of epic hikes, forests and a national park. The age-old charm of an overnight stay in Castelmezzaono’s 10th century settlement makes it a firm Europe hidden gem favourite.

Read more: Italy’s hidden gems

Plan your trip: This is a real ‘get away from it’ kind of village. You can either stay a while and become part of the furniture or call in on a road trip around southern Italy. The zip-line usually shutters from November until May.

Top tip: Don’t miss the city of Matera, a magical land of caves, ancient underground living, and storied streets.

13. Durham, England

One of the best places to visit in Europe for the quintessential British experience

If you are looking for a slice of English city-life with countryside charm, head to Durham.

Most famed for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed castle and cathedral – the oldest being from the 9th century – you’ll want to allow at least a half-day to tour both. There’s also a large university here, meaning plenty of good bars and decent restaurants – including ample vegetarian options.

Outside the city, you can ramble along the Durham Heritage Coast, a European hidden gem for its sea glass-strewn beach . Raby Castle – a privately owned medieval gem which has starred in Downton Abbey – can also be toured. 

Lastly, be sure to visit Beamish Museum , a living museum. I spent a full day here solo; it was that impressive! With an interactive museum-meets-theme-park vibe, you’ll discover the history of England from the 1800s onwards.

From fully staffed old-school sweet shops and dress-up photography studios to vintage trams and buses driving around, the experience is very much ‘lived history’ history. There are even actors in the ‘homes’ and ‘schools’.

Read more: Durham travel guide

Plan your trip: I’d suggest at least three days or a packed weekend. Then you can experience the city, a couple of castles and the fantastic Beamish Museum. As with everywhere in the UK, it’s best in the warmer and dryer months.

Top tip: Always book your train tickets in advance in the UK, it will save you a lot of money. Buses in the region are surprisingly decent, making sights easy to explore.

14. Erfurt and Thuringia, Germany

One of the most undiscovered cities in Europe for quaint corners, classical culture, library lovers and adapted accessibility 

Historic, charming and relatively compact, Erfurt is the capital of the Germany’s lesser-visited State of Thuringia.

The city dates back to around 700 AD and slowly became an important trading destination in the Middle Ages. Thanks to the Old Town surviving WWII, you can still experience it very much as it once was.

Home to Germany’s oldest university, it’s a classic city with a youthful vibe. In the summer months when I visited, the beer gardens were overflowing, walks along the river were divine, and an energy floated through the warm evening air that I hadn’t felt in other German cities. 

The main attractions are the hulking Gothic cathedral and the Petersberg Fortress. Krämerbrücke – a unique arched bridge with a central cobbled street and boutique stores – also deserves a special mention.

You can easily visit more of Europe’s hidden gems nearby, using Erfurt as a base. Weimar is especially worth the journey for the Renaissance-style Anna Amalia Library .

Read more: Exploring Erfurt

Plan your trip: Spend a weekend in Erfurt, or one week exploring some of Thuringia’s highlights. Spring through autumn is the nicest. Frankfurt is the nearest major gateway (2:30 hours), and discounted train tickets are offered for those with booked hotels in the region. Erfurt is also one of the best barrier-free city breaks in Germany.

Top tip: Bundle up the regions of Thuringia and Saxony, Germany into a road trip. Combined, these two states are known as the Cultural Heart of Germany.

15. Bansko & Pirin National Park, Bulgaria

One of the best places to visit in Europe for excellent value skiing by winter and summer hiking

Bansko was meant to be my first skiing trip. Shortly after arrival, I discovered that I was terrible at the winter sport, and quickly resigned myself to being an avid après-skier instead.

Thankfully, a ski trip in Bansko doesn’t break the bank, making it one of the best choices for first-timers who don’t want to commit to expensive options in the Alps – or pros who seek a more off the beaten path Europe experience. 

For example, my chalet room, including dinners, breakfasts, transfers and drinks with Snomads , was around £300 for the week. Lessons and lift passes are also decently priced. Then – away from the slope’s inflated yet not too steep prices – the €1.55 G&Ts went down rather well too. 

Before the pistes, which begin a 30-minute Gondola ride from the resort town, you’ll find all you need in Bansko Old Town. Some streets are lined with heritage buildings, while house museums and a small but stunning Orthodox church provide the culture.

If you visit outside the ski season, you’ll still be able to enjoy the old town and head into the Pirin National Park for some much more verdant hiking to lakes.

Read more: Skiing in Bansko

Plan your trip: Come for the hiking in summer or a skiing week in winter. An overnight stay is enough if you just want to explore the town and take a day hike. 

Top tip: If you want to continue to Plovdiv, the slow and scenic narrow-gauge train provides a pleasant meandering journey.

16. The Frosinone Valley, Italy

One of the best non touristy places to visit for a Rome side trip of verdant walks, offbeat villages, and vineyard vistas

Around halfway between Rome and Naples, the idyllic Province of Frosinone is situated in the southern part of the Lazio region.

Perhaps the most famous attraction here is the Abbey of Montecassino , a vast complex atop the hill in Cassino, which, following its destruction in World War Two, has subsequently been rebuilt.

However, I spent most of my time around the Valle di Comino. Some of Europe’s fiercest battles have taken place in these forested heartlands, but it’s now a serene setting of olive groves, mountains, and beautiful small villages.

If you’re seeking that dreamy and verdant Italy-from-the-movies feel, Frosinone will oblige. Sip delicious award-winning Cabernet in the vineyards of Atina. Discover Arpino – the ‘city of Cicero’ – and explore the ancient L’Acropoli di Civitavecchia. Then head to pretty-as-a-postcard San Donato Val di Comino for mountain-backed village views and overflowing tables in an agriturismo s’ (rural farm accommodation) farm-to-fork restaurant.

Read more: Villages near Rome

Plan your trip: Spring through Autumn are great times to visit – I especially enjoy late September during the wine harvest. You could make this a little post-Rome getaway or a stand-alone extended vacation.

Top tip: Arpino is perhaps the best town to base yourself in for decent restaurants and a bit of life. For a more rural village stay, opt for a farm base in San Donato Val di Comino .

17. Nisyros Island, Greece

One of the best hidden gems in Europe for a whitewashed village escape on an Aegean-enveloped active volcano 

The volcanic island of Nisyros was one of my most accidental discoveries. In fact, I didn’t even know I was going to Greece until I got invited there on a second date. Sadly, the romance never blossomed, but I did replace it with a new lover: this European hidden gem in the Aegean Sea.

While the whole place is rather unique – it’s one hulking volcano – it is hugged by idyllic whitewashed villages serving up typical Greek traits. Tavernas dish out the staples, white and blue set the scene, and bright bougainvillaea adds a splash of colour.

But, what makes this hidden gem of Europe particularly impressive is Stefanos – one of the world’s largest hydrothermal craters. It’s not the only one, either; there are a handful of them on the island. Walking into the caldera, and standing on the space-like floor, is something of a surreal – and sulphur-filled – bucket list experience.

If you stay a while, you can explore the island’s coastal villages and lounge on the dark sand and pebble beaches. Nisyros is a solid pick for that laid-back Greek lifestyle without the overwhelming crowds of, say, Santorini.

Read more: Visit Nisyros Island

Plan your trip: You can day-trip from Kos – combing the two makes for a great multi-centre Greece holiday – or spend a couple of days hiking, or enjoy a week or more escaping it all. While Greece is one of Europe’s warmest winter destinations , I’d suggest avoiding the chillier months.

Top tip: Ferries leave from Kardamena, Kos, or you can book a day tour in advance.

18. Monsanto and Central Portugal’s Schist Villages

One of the most quirky places in europe for mind-boggling boulders, creative retreats, and near-empty trails

In Portugal’s parched interior, Monsanto is a pretty village lauding some unusual features. Boulders call all the shots here, making it a rather unique hidden gem of Europe.

Perched atop a volcanic massif with far-reaching views to the Spanish borders, the hamlet is littered with giant rocks. Not to be deterred from making it their home, previous residents have constructed houses alongside, between and even underneath precarious looking boulders.

Monsanto isn’t a place you come to do much, and that is very much the charm. There are excellent panoramas, the remains of the fortified castle, and a timeless air that sadly is getting lost in Portugal’s ever-growing tourism scene. Side trips include admiring ancient fossils in Penha Garcia, and visiting the remains of a Roman settlement in Idanaha-A-Velha.

Closer to Coimbra, you’ll find more Schist Villages in the Serra da Lousã. Cerdeira , which has been lovingly restored, now provides a bolthole for creativity, with some of hidden Europe’s most tucked-away workshops and retreats.

Read more: On my Portugal website

Plan your trip: Monsanto sits in the central sun-bleached heartlands. Intense heat defines summers, and cold snaps the winter. Come in spring or march, and stay at least a night or two to enjoy the magnificent sunsets.

Top tip: Day trips from Lisbon on public transport are almost impossible, so stay a night. You’ll need to book a tour if you just want a flying peek at Monsanto. 

19. Annecy, France 

One of the best places to visit in Europe for a pretty-as-a-postcard lakeside getaway 

Annecy, in southeastern France, was my last ‘Europe off the beaten path’ visit of 2022. On a gloriously sunny day, the Christmas markets I came for felt slightly out of place, but the charm of this small alpine town shined as brightly as the rays from above.

Walking the excellently preserved medieval centre – the Vieille Ville – you’ll cross canals flanked by pastel-coloured facades. On an island in the largest channel, Le Palais de I’Île, a small castle, hosts a mini museum and provides a prominent photo point. Château d’Annecy – a historical monument and castle – sits higher still and serves as a more impressive museum.

But, I found the real joy in simply ambling – both along the canals and cobbled streets and the lakeside Jardins de l’Europe. The town sits on the edge of Lake Annecy, one of the country’s cleanest, lending itself to waterside strolls. Beyond, the nearby mountain trails help you go off the beaten path in the Haute-Savoie surrounds. 

Read more: Weekend breaks in France

Plan your trip: Annecy is a pretty France weekend break year-round. In December, a Christmas market visit is one of the best things to do in France during winter. It is fairly small, so it could be a day trip, or you can use it as a base to explore the nearby snow-capped peaks.

Top tip: If you’re a fine art enthusiast, take the 80-minute side trip to Grenoble for the Musêe de Grenoble . For a regional museum, it’s incredibly well stacked with masterpieces.

20. Sutherland and Moray, Scotland

One of the best places to visit in Europe for castle touring, coastal walking and clan learning  

Without heading to Scotland’s far-flung isles, it’s getting harder to find ‘hidden gems’ in the ever-popular nation. The mountainous country rich in lochs , legends, myths and munros is one of the most scenic escapes in Europe, and unfathomable crowds descend on the likes of Skye and Edinburgh Festivals in peak summer. 

Sutherland and Moray are two parts of Scotland I love, and you can base yourself bang in the middle in Inverness if you want to explore by public transport. While Inverness isn’t as grand as Edinburgh , the cathedral and castle make for a stately setting to call home.

In Sutherland, the show’s star is Dunrobin Castle, a grand – if relatively modern – turreted delight, set amongst perfectly manicured gardens. Moray brings the older sights, with the impressive ruins of Elgin Cathedral dating back to 1224.

Along this stretch of coast, you’ll find quaint villages and killer views, and hopefully, avoid the crowds heading to the West Highlands and famous valleys such as Glencoe. That said, the NC500 coastal route has become very popular in recent years, so it might be best to skip the high season.

Read more: Scotland road trip

Plan your trip: Either use Inverness as a base to experience the area, or even better, make it a Scotland road trip . Showers can come any time of year in Scotland, but avoiding winter weather and summer crowds is advisable.

Top tip: Dunrobin Castle is closed from November until March.

21. Lake of the Four Cantons, Switzerland

One of the best places to visit in Europe for spectacular backdrops with border-defining history

Switzerland’s lakes, mountains, timepieces, chocolates and banks have long appealed to those with the budget to travel the country. While it’s certainly not a cheap destination, free activities in the great outdoors can make it more palatable for your purse.

Lake Lucerne, or the Lake of the Four Cantons, is one of the country’s prettiest bodies of water. On the edge of the lake, you’ll find some Europe hidden gems such as Tellskapelle, the chapel honouring William Tell , Switzerland’s national hero.

While Tell himself is most likely mythical, the nearby towns provide genuine and important history for this famously neutral nation. In the cantons of Uri and Schwyz, the country established its independence – and two museums share the stories of those crucial days. 

Hiking trails along the water’s edge link some smaller towns together. Beyond the settlements, the backdrop of soaring mountains – with their elevations often reachable by cable car – captivate. 

Round off your visit in the larger city of Lucerne, where medieval architecture makes the Altstadt (Old Town) a pretty setting. Highlights include the Kapellbrücke – a 12th-century wooden bridge decorated with a series of triangular paintings – and the ‘saddest Lion statue’ in the world, a memorial monument dedicated to the Swiss Guards who died in the French Revolution.

Plan your trip: Spring through autumn is an excellent time to visit – I found October great. Plan a couple of days for village-hopping and at least one day in Lucerne. The public ferry pass could be good value if you want to see a few stops around the lake.

Top tip: Private boat tours allow for short sightseeing trips or more indulgent luxury lunch cruises .

22. The Ore Mountains, Saxony

One of the best places to visit in Europe for Christmas traditions, mountain fare, and festive markets 

Look no further than the Ore Mountains for one of the best winter hidden gems in Europe . Located in the eastern state of Saxony, close to the Czech border, a winter wonderland renowned for its festive traditions awaits.

The village of Seiffen is the place to start after you’ve ticked-off the best things to do in Dresden . Here, carpenters, toy-makers, candle crafters, Moravian Star-stitchers and Angel-artists work year-round, creating something of a real-life Santa’s grotto. But, when winter – and the inevitable snow – rolls around, it’s at its finest. 

Long standing seasonal traditions are very much alive, and mainly come courtesy of the surrounding ex-mining towns. Don a hard hat and heat into a decommissioned underground quarry for a candle-lit carol concert. Settle in at the table for a typical miners’ feast using age-old recipes. Then, get your fill of Glühwein and handicrafts at one of the region’s countless markets with marching band parades. Even just in Dresden, the region’s Baroque-heavy capital, you’ll find eleven themed markets, and Leipzig’s market is equally as storied, dating back to 1458.

The Ore Mountains are one of the most unique places to visit in Europe, and make for a great alternative to the continent’s most famous festive destinations. 

Read more: Christmas traditions in Saxony

Plan your trip: This is a land best experienced in the lead-up to Christmas. Plan to stay a night or two as part of a longer Christmas Market road trip so you can visit more of the best places to visit in Saxony, Germany – public transport is more limited around the mountains.

Top tip: If you want to attend some special events – such as parades or miners’ concerts – check for updates on this local website .

23. Kutna Hora, Czech Republic

One of the best places to visit in Europe for a bone-chilling gothic city trip

Whilst Prague may be one of the hottest must-visit cities in Europe, and South Bohemia famous for its castles , the historic and impressive Bohemia city of Kutna Hora is still a relatively under-the-radar gem.

Discover the cobbled streets and grand Gothic architecture – especially the brawny cathedral – and then pay a respectful visit to the unique ‘Bone Church’, which is, as you might have guessed, adorned with bones.

Sedlec Ossuary shares its nearly 1000 years of history with a no-holding-back approach. Some 40,000 human skeletons form the walls, ceilings and even chandeliers. It’s quite the macabre sight.

Read more: Kutna Hora’s chapel

Plan your trip: Decent year-round, but summer is best for exploring the surrounding nature. Make it an overnight visit, or come on a day trip from Prague. Group tours are offered from Prague and cost around €50 , though it’s easy and cheap to go DIY – the train takes approximately one hour. 

Top tip: The Ostuary closes at 4 pm in winter and 6 pm in summer.

+ For the future: Kyiv, Ukraine

Read more: Two days in Kyiv

On my previous European hidden gems list, Kyiv was one of the top entries. Tragically the Russian invasion has caused misery and suffering for those living in Ukraine and, obviously, made tourism impossible. However, I leave this entry as a mention for future travel plans when we can return to Ukraine and help support and rebuild the nation through tourism.

And that’s a wrap for this 2023 edition of list underrated destinations in Europe. Got any suggestions of where I should head next to add to this list or have you visited somewhere above? Let me know in the comments and safe travels!

For my Europe adventures, discover my favourite secret Spain spots , hidden gems in Italy , or these beautiful and lesser visited villages near Rome . Or, find your own favourite amongst all my Europe travel articles .

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Awesome places. Some of the destinations, I came to know about it for the first time through your post. The European ambiance has a different charm to it and it gets tweaked from one country to another. Thanks for sharing these tidbits of information, loved reading it.

I hear so many positives about visiting Slovenia. The Vipava Valley is just another reason to visit and probably significantly cheaper and less crowed than France.

It’s amazing, simply loved this region!

Thanks for sharing this amazing list of places. Really helpful :)

informative blog. thanks a lot spending time to share it with us. really appreciate it. keep up the good work.

What is missing here is one of the best places to go when you go to France. The Dordogne, the place to be, so much to do and the food…….. Checkout and see for youself

Hi Great list and super nice site 😃 I have been to Alentejo, Portugal the cathedral has a great view. Kutna Hora is also a place that I remember for sure. Awesome! 🤩

This is another great guide as always. Europe is definitely the perfect choice if you want a memorable trip, I recommend it for many people especially for couples or honeymoon.

This Guide is full of the most interesting and stunning sites, and I want to thank you for sharing this and give us the inspiration to travel again.

Always dreamed to visit Ukraine and Poland.Great countries.

There are such beautiful places in Europe that you must go there once in your life.In general, I prefer to appreciate the architectural style

What a find! Amazing places being featured here! You should also visit The Old Railway Station in England too

Great site. With all the restrictions on travel it is really nice to virtually explore. I love the options in Italy and will make them an objective post my Positano trip. Also great to see another option for Czech Republic in addition to Prague! Look forward to more stories as you hit the milestone of 60+ countries and counting!

Thank you, hope you have a wonderful time in Italy!

amazing list with usefull information of places to visit in europe

Hey there, this is really very interesting article with great pictures. Thanks so much for sharing such amazing content. Keep up the good work all time.

Wow!!Great post. Thanks for sharing this.

Wooww…Really amazing places. Italy, Greece & Spain are in my bucket list. I want to tick off these places very soon. Your list is quite helpful especially the way you have mentioned the means for travel and how much time we should give to that place. Thank you for sharing it. Waiting for the next list!

Excellent tips! Thanks for sharing

Europe is like a dream. It has so many offbeat places that it becomes impossible to travel to all the destinations in one’s lifetime. Probably we have to take birth once again to travel to all of these beautiful locations.

thanks for the list

Such an amazing list of hidden gems in Europe, Thanks for sharing. Brisighella is one of my favorite place in Italy.

list also gets top marks for including Colchester – I live so close by!

Have you been to Santorini?

I would recommend going and staying at Parrissa Beach. This is not the hill side pictures you see with the amazing views on all the postcards. Although you can rent a four wheeler ($10 euro/day) and get there in 15 minutes. We stayed in Parissa Beach in 2011 in an apartment on the beach for about $400/month (yes per month) when rooms were going for 10x that in the tourist spots of Ios. It’s a cool scene too, tons a great beach bars, a boardwalk of restaurants, out door theaters and best of all it is all cheap as can be.

Hey, i haven’t no – I’d love to go, but it’s so touristy these days I’m not sure I would love it so much. Thanks for the tips.

When I can suggest a great place to go which really offers a real great stay for families with kids, go and see Glamping-Dordogne. They offer safaritents but really, with so much comfort.

Really a place to go.

I really enjoyed reading your go on. I’m waiting for next one

I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.

Hey Daniel, Amazing & Informative list of Europe best visit places. Any Europe Traveler must read this. Thanks!

Well in Europe there are lots of places where you can spend time moreover one of the most tourist island is Mljet island where you can spend your time with your partner beside this there are lots of things too which you can plan during your Day tours in Mljet .

Much appreciate the places of Europe that you have mentioned. Each county of Europe is known for its unique kind of beauty and is generally appreciate for what they have. Besides that, these nations are totally safe.

Very interesting blog. Great review. Thanks for sharing! I love Slovenia, but I want to visit other places on your list!

List is amazing, It is just wonderful getting knowledge about these places and will definattely add it in my bucket list. All these places look amazing!

i really love your article but i am so nervous everytime i go solo to a country but now i am more confident now because of you and you mind checking out my vidon on my youtube channel https://youtu.be/OwuNpq_1N-U

Hello Dan! Last summer I happened upon Monte Isola, an island in the middle of Lago d’Iseo in Lombardy. Have you ever been here? When I went, immediately fell in love with its small town vibe and stunning views. Definitely one of my lesser known places that is a must visit!

It looks amazing, but I haven’t been there yet sadly – hopefully the next time I travel through Milan I can take some days to head there :)

Such a cool round-up! Totally want to add these to my bucket list now. I visited London in the summer of 2017 and was absolutely stunned by the cobble-stoned sidewalks, the countryside and the food.

If you REALLY want to see the prettiest and most fascinating sidewalks in the world, you should defiantly take a vacation to Portugal, here the streets are well preserved and unique

As someone living in Portugal, I have to agree :)

Wow, thanks for the suggestions, guys! Will definitely plan a trip to Portugal :)

I think that Europe might be the only continent in the world that never runs out of its places to visit. The continent itself is covering with beautiful culture, medieval heritage exotic place and legacies of kingdom to read for. You can check out our Europe’s best

Some places I’ve been to, but The Hague is next! Cool write up

The hague is not so nice as Amsterdam

It’s also not so hectic, I love Amsterdam but it’s just hit oveflowing now for much of the year I think.

Definitely bookmarking this post, It’s Very helpful for planning a trip

“The gladdest moment in human life, methinks, is a departure into unknown lands.” – Sir Richard Burton , Your posts are amazing Dan

Dear Daniel! I enjou reading your content, please keep up the good work. Youssef.

Planning to visit Portugal in 2020. I cannot imagine how thrilling it must be. I have to say that your list has some pretty cool destinations. If my budget allows, I might add in Albania. Great post!

Food for thought for upcoming trip. Appreciate your time and effort in writing this

I am reading this post in 2019. These places look no less captivating in 2019 :) Thanks for compiling this list.

You wrote awesome. I really read your all story about unique places this is interesting.

Im so glad that i stumble upon this article. Definitely bookmark this for future trips. So many beautiful places i havent visited according to your post. Thank you and keep up your good work!

Definitely pinning, great pictures! Looking to connect with other bloggers and get some tips for my new site.

Hi Dan, It’s so breathtaking! I have some experience in Albania. While visiting my friend there, she get a paddle board from this and suddenly took me to Lake Komani.cause she knows that I love paddling board so much! How impetuous she is!!

wow! The scenery of these trips is so beautiful, I also want to try these places once in a lifetime, thank you for sharing this wonderful thing.

Hey love this post quick question though how do you take your pictures traveling solo?

If I’m in them with a tripod, but I mainly don’t take photos of me.

Czechoslovakia hasn’t been a country for quite some time now. Good pictures and lots of good destinations, though, for sure.

Yup, but I think a few cities still have the celebrations I was told.

I have been telling people about Camogli since I visited this amazing place in 2014. Glad to see it is on your list.

It’s a gem, isn’t it?!

Lagoa beach look GORGEOUS, I’m already in love! Definitely put it in my travel bucket list for this year!

I appreciate your effort. I must say that your shared all these places are the best to have great fun in Europe and tourists can enjoy some time with family and friends. I have a good experience of Lake Komani because I have been there couple of the times in my whole life to enjoy my holidays and every time had a blast of fun at this most amazing and alluring destination.

These are some really beautiful places, I have been wanting to take a vacation to the UK just couldn’t make time, after seeing these images all I wanna do is pack my bags.

Great post, thanks for sharing these awesome gems. I plan to visit Slovenia this summer and Piran wasn’t on my bucket list. I will surely add it now after seeing those wonderful photos of the place.

The pictures are so cool ! I want to go everywhere now, all the places look different and unique.

Wonderful list of amazing places in Europe. I would love to visit Skadar Lake National Park, Montenegro in upcoming days. Thanks, Dan, for sharing such a beautiful place of Europe.

Trough dordognevakantiehuizen.nl I have found a great place to stay in the Dordogne France. A real great area to visit when you go to France.

Nice people and a great place for getting to know the real French life.

Thanks for this post. I’ve recently moved to Leipzig (Saxony) and it’s nice to see it appearing on some blogs now as an area to visit. Gose beer is also from Saxony and one of Germany’s largest Sekt producers (I think it’s in Weimar). I’m looking forward to getting out to the Dresden area soon, especially for a trip over to Bastei. I’m also excited to check out more of Eastern Europe, especially Montenegro, now that I’m so much closer (than Canada). I’ve enjoyed your suggestions!

Thanks Chrissy, I’m really excited to get the chance to visit Leipzig myself in the summer, I’ve heard so many cool things about the city. Hope you enjoy living and travelling in Europe while you are here :)

Beautiful! :) Pluzine from Montenegro is my favorite. All country Montenegro have beautiful nature.

Wonderful! Your List is amazing. Great work keep it up.

Hi! Amazing and inspirational! I live in London now but I would love to show you around Romania and see it through your lenses 😃. Keep walking!

Thanks Teodora! Thats a super kind offer :)

Amazing post, read it for first time and was fascinated by the photos and the true information that you don’t get very often. If you visit Costa Rica, Please Visit this amazing Beach Resort

amazing photos and inspiring travel destinations. I also suggest St. Wolfgang in Austria :)

Thanks for the tip, will check it out :)

What a great list of places. Even though these are written for 2017, they will still be great gems in 2018. I’m heading on a Eastern Europe trip for 4 months in the Summer so unwell certainly be checking out some of these places. Thanks for the ideas !

Thanks Katie. I need to update for 2018 :)

Safe travels!

There is a lot of wonderful places you behind in the post that I need to check out.

Hi Dan, love the article. Two years ago, during a European road trip, we stayed in Schwangau, with the intention of visiting Neuschwanstein Castle. There wasn’t much there, to be honest. Just a nondescript main road. We couldn’t even find the castle when we first arrived, due to the mist obscuring it. It wasn’t until the next day when we were leaving that we saw it peeking out from behind its shroud. We both exclaimed “It was behind us all this time!”.

As we were leaving we drove through the neighbouring town of Füssen. It looks like a much more characterful town and we wished we had stayed there. Next time!

This year’s road trip took in Riquewhir/Colmar/Eguisheim, all stunning. Then onto Lauterbrunnen :0, Orta San Guilio – beautiful and quiet, Sirmione – hot, bustling and lovely. Postojna – dig those caves, through Istria, taking in Buzet and Motovun until we reached Rovinj, which we absolutely love. Stunning old town and the unrivaled Punta Corrente park.

Our return journey took in Venice – on the cheap, there is a campsite on the other side of the lagoon where you can camp for approx €20-30 per night. Then onto Menaggio (Much nicer than Belaggio, not so geared up to selling you expensive baubles). From there to Freiburg, then over the Black Forest high road, across a bit of France, up the length of Luxembourg to Clervaux for the Family of Man exhibit. Clervaux was/is a unique place. I don’t know quite how I’d describe it. They seem to have a thing for anthropomorphic furniture and decorations. They were also pumping Yello’s “The Race” from the town’s PA system, for no discernible reason. Last stop was Bruges, but this isn’t a hidden gem, just a gem.

Sounds like such an amazing trip, hoping to do it myself next year so will keep Fussen in mind as a base.

And also wow, thank you for all these amazing tips of places. Moving back to Europe in 2018 so this has given me lots of new places to adventure too.

Hope the next trip is just as exciting for you :)

Love the list, I definitely need to save some of your recommendations for my next trips:) I would also add Polish capital, Warsaw. Even though I didn’t expect much from it, it turned out to be one of the most amazing destinations I have been to. It is traditional and very modern at the same time, it is such an unique and great combinations. It is truly a stunning city. And the gastronomic aspect of it is incredible – there are tens of amazing restaurants worth visiting. My personal favorite is called the Akademia, a place with modern versions of traditional Polish cuisine. So creative and delicious! I will for sure go back one day :D

I loved Warsaw too, sadly I visited in January and it was just too cold to do anything! Excited to go back and see it in the summer one day. Safe travels :)

If you like visiting cities, I recommend it again Gdańsk, Wrocław, Kraków, Toruń, Zamość, Poznań. In addition to cities, we have mountains and depression, beautiful beaches, many lakes, forests and even dunes and a desert … :) We have all

These little gems look amazing, adding them to our visit list! Thanks for sharing

They are some of my favourites, hope you get to some of them soon :)

Agree with your list of most affordable destinations in 2017. Croatia ,England are going to be in any list of cheap travel destinations……I have been to these places and I can’t forget the wonderful experiences I had…..some countries with unique cultures, amazing nature and exceptional food (very cheap yet delicious)

Dan a great list of which I have visited a number. I went to Hvar from Australia for the first time 16 years ago, it has always had great affordable high quality B&B accommodation. I have been back to Croatia three times since then as it is my favourite summer destination in Europe and Hvar now has more 4 & 5 star hotels and the B&B places are more expensive but are still the main source of accommodation in all of Croatia. Everybody does this and is most peoples major source of income. Some rooms are superb and have views and all for 100 dollars night.It is however a very popular place as is Lake Bled. Another few gem in Croatia that I will let you in on are the town of Betina on the island of Murter and the town of Komiza on the island of Vis. Popular but not over busy. Check them out on Google

Thanks for the tips Dan. I’m really hoping to get back to Croatia this summer and explore more of the Islands so will add these to my list. It’s such a beautiful country to explore.

Another good Spanish town would be Lekeitio, Spain up in Basque country. An adorable little town with a beautiful beach surrounded by those massive cliffs that are sprinkled all over the Basque coastal area, plus this awesome little island right inside the bay that you can walk out to and explore. And pintxos everywhere :) We rented a car and drove all along that coast, there are so many awesome little villages and towns up there it was hard to pick one to stop at!

This places sounds beautiful, I really need to spend some more time in Spain. Thanks for the tips :)

Ahhh Kutna Hora was such a weird and cool town! That bone church was unreal, and I think it was still low season because I felt like I was the only person in town so the whole trip gave me a badass, kind of eery vibe. And Hvar is totally not just for rich people with yachts! My boyfriend and I brought camping gear and camped out by the water for three nights on Hvar and it was gorgeous (getting all glammed up for a night out at a nice restaurant in a tent was a fun little first for me too!). Great post Dan! I can’t wait to see some of these other towns in my future travels :)

Haha, yeah it does have a very forgotten about eiry feel to it. Haha, I loved that you camped in Hvar, people always assume its for the rich and famous but think you proved them wrong :D

So many beautiful places to visit! So little time… ;-) I need to finally get to Gdańsk – it would such a nice weekend trip, as I live just 3h by train from it. Some of those photos are just unbelievably beautiful! Thank you for making this list!

Ahh you really should, and head over to Sopot whilst you are there (especially in summer). Thanks for reading :)

You’ve 100% fuelled my list of “must visit’s” this year. As a side note. I once fell asleep on a train in Liechtenstein and seemingly did the opposite of what you did! I then had to sneak back on a train (platform in the middle of nowhere. With no ticket office) and back into the country (with a “slight” wait in the freezing cold snow.)

Haha, it must be something about the trains there! Who knew it would be so hard to find the country properly ;)

I like this list very much! I was so schocked to see Colchester on there (or Colch as it is locally known). It’s a town I visit sometimes and is only an hour away from me so I never really saw it as a tourist spot before!

Good old Colch. Had to through a few of my home favourites on there :)

Hi, glad to see the list they are all really awesome places. I like to travel to hidden places like you. Here is one, I think you would like it. “Blooming cherry tree street”, Bonn, Germany. It’s not that well known to people but it is one beautiful street. The city Bonn is okay, but this street grabed my attention. It’s best to go in the fall around August and September to get the view of the cherry trees.

This sounds beautiful, just had a quick Google. Germany is somewhere I really owe a longer visit. Safe travels :)

Glad to see Kutna Hora on your list – doesn’t get much mention and the town itself is often overshadowed by the bone church (which is honestly not fair, it’s a great little town).

Although the church is interesting I agree, the town itself deserves a lot more credit. It’s a great spot. Safe travels :)

The walk up to Saint Barbara’s church with all the statues lining the street was so pretty, and a little spooky in a fun sort of way because it was foggy and it the sun was starting to go down. Loved Kutna Hora :)

They sound like places I would love to visit :)

All of these places sound fantastic,I have visited many european countries but I see you don’t mention Greece! So much to discover there. You must visit Kalavrita. It can be reached by a narrow gauge railway as its at the top of a mountain.The train takes you through natrow gorges snd beautiful scenery until you reach the top. It’s history during world war 2 is tragic but I’ll leave you to gen up on that.

I really do need to get back to Greece. I have only been to Athens and Corfu so I have a lot more to explore there. I will certainly be sure to visit Kalavrita next time, sounds like the scenery is a must visit.

Neuschwanstein in Schwangeau is not really a town. The only thing there are the two castles, which are amazing. But the actual town is called Fussen, which is one of the most beautiful and quaint towns I’ve ever been to. It’s surrounded by amazing mountains and trees. Just make sure to get there early enough during the day because they will sell out of tickets, and close fairly early. I was only able to tour one of the castles because they sold out. But Fussen is incredible. The train ride there from Munich isn’t that long. I think it was about an hour and a half, and the ride is as equally beautiful and relaxing. It was definitely a great day trip.

You should also check out many of the small towns in Turkey. It’s one of my favorite countries (I’ve been to 16 so far). On the Mediterranean there is a town called Bodrum. There is a really cool castle there I spent the whole day exploring it. My boyfriend has a house in the town next to Bodrum, called Turgetreis. It’s a small town, but so beautiful. All along the Mediterranean. You can see the Greek islands from pretty much anywhere in the town. We rode scooters around the town and through the sidewalk, ate ice cream and drank fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and ate fresh bread, walked through the bizarre. It’s the place I always think of when I want to escape life. You can take a ferry ride to any of the Greek islands. You can take a bus ride to fehtiye (the Turkish dead sea). There are also small towns next to Turgetreis that are just so small, but beautiful. With little bracelet stands and homemade dishes and locally done paintings. All the beaches along these towns are great for relaxing. You’ll never want to leave, some tourists never do.

Ahhhh, I was misled into thinking Schwangau was a proper town – great to know, thank you. I’m all about castles so if there are two I’ll be a happy man.

Turkey is somewhere I really do need to explore more, three visits to Istanbul and still not made it out of the city. I think I’ll take your scooter tip and go for an explore along the coast, it sounds incredible. Safe travels :)

Great list! Love your top tip for Hof in Iceland, and interestingly I’ve been to Hvar years ago and thought it was incredible too. However friends went this year and thought it was over crowded now

Yeah, I bet most of Croatia is much busier than I remember it being. Hof is a must if you head to Iceland!

I did a Euro Trip in May-June and you hit the description of Bled and Ljubljana spot on – both amazing cities and Bled is a hidden gem. I have been to the Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles and I stayed in the adorable little town of Fussen, Germany. It was only a short, inexpensive local bus ride away. I don’t recommend paying to see the inside of the Neuschwanstein because they don’t give you very much access and the beautiful views outside are well-worth it. I HIGHLY recommend walking around the lake (Alpsee) because it is absolutely incredible. Enjoy!

THANK YOU! Love more tips like this, will have a google and try to fit them in :) Safe travels in 2017!

I love that you have Carvoeiro in this list. I stayed in Carvoiero for a few days this summer and I just did not want to leave. I loved Port De Soller too but Pollenca in Mallorca is equally gorgeous and hidden.

Oooh Pollenca, I missed that one but it looks lovely. And yes, it is such a beautiful places – I used to live there and worked at Mungos Bar (if you had a chance to visit) – very overdue a return trip!

Meteora, Greece – beautiful monasteries – 5 or 6 of them. Easily accessible by train from Athens (4 hours). Quaint towns with fabulous restaurants, friendly people and great/inexpensive places to stay.

YES! This is so high on my list, I am sure once I finally visit it will make it onto next years copy :)

Armona island. A ferry ride from Olhao in Portugal. A taste of paradise. No cars!

WOW. Looks beautiful, thanks for the tip. Will see if I can fit it into my Portugal plans for next year :)

These are such great tips for when we don’t have too much time to jet around the world.

I grew up close to Bled and even remember ice-skating on the lake in winter, too bad it doesn’t really freeze anymore. Grmada is my favorite dessert there, a bit different and messier than the famous kremsnita ☺ Bohinj is another beautiful little area close to Bled, even wilder and perfect for a (cold) swim, while the Soča Valley is just completely stunning.

Maya | londondamsel.co.uk

Oh no, I missed a dessert?!?! Haha. Thank you, Bled is just so special I can’t wait to return and travel much more of the country.

Thanks and happy travels :)

Slovenia (and Lake Bled) is one of my most favorite places in Europe and is highly underrated.

I think that is going to change pretty quickly, it is getting a lot of attention now!

I would recommend the Alsacian region in France, particularly the town of Eguisheim, but also Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé and Obernai. While Equisheim, Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé are beautiful but very crowded with tourists in the high season, Obernai is a bustling market town, with many nice restaurants, wine bars and little shops, as well as nice architecture.

Thank you for such different suggestions. They have gone on the list :)

Montenegro really surprised me at just how incredible the landscape was, especially around Pluzine :)

I love visiting smaller towns! Gdansk is high on my list — was just daydreaming about a (hopeful) 2017 trip to Poland. I’d also add Lviv in Ukraine — coffee and chocolate capital of the country! It also has a military themed bar and a secret Masonic restaurant. It’s on the western side of Ukraine, easily accessible from Poland and Hungary.

Gdansk is fantastic cause you have Sopot nearby too. I haven’t made it to Ukraine yet but hear a lot of positives about Lviv. – will check it out. Thanks :)

What a fantastic list! I want to go to them all ha ha! I’m hoping we can do a Scandinavia/Arctic trip maybe next year, and Iceland will most definitely be on that list so Glacier Beach looks incredible. Love your photos – stunning & inspiring.

I love Bled! The cake is a must see! Well, eat. I also recommend Beilstein in Germany – tiny and adorable and enticing. I went to Schwangau last month – book a tour so you can make sure you get in to the castle!

Ahhh the cake, ate far too much haha. Thanks for the tip, will check it out. Safe travels :)

Could definitely make a great European road trip of this list! So much fun would that be! Even though I was born and raised in Europe, this continent knows to surprise in the most wonderful ways each and every time

It is one of those continents that just keeps giving for sure! AND wow, what an epic road trip that would be.

Hi Dan, great list! I have been lucky enough to have been to a few of these myself. I have mapped the list out and shared it on my website, check it out if you like … http://www.thetravelblogs.com/europe/southern-europe

Keep up the amazing work and happy travels!

Hey Matt, Thanks so much – safe travels :)

Love this list! Of all the towns that I’ve visited on this list, I can definitely confirm that they are worth a visit! Especially Bled!! This list also gets top marks for including Colchester – I live so close by!

Haha, Colchester needs a little more internet loving I figured. Bled is just magical right? :)

OMG these photos…incredible!

Thank you Tamara :) Such beautiful places to visit!

Amazing list!

Thank you! Love all these spots :)

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50 Most Beautiful EUROPEAN VILLAGES & TOWNS to visit in your lifetime

Europe is full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations. I’m here to share with you the 50 most beautiful European villages and towns.

Make sure to add them to your bucket list because each of these destinations is unique. Without further ado, these are the most beautiful small towns in Europe.

For more awesome travel photos, follow my adventures on Instagram!

50. Brasov, Romania

Located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, Brasov is surrounded by beautiful mountains and it’s full of history. However, since tourism in Romania is not very developed, few tourists get to visit this beautiful place.

Take a walk on Republicii Street, admire the beautiful Black Church, or take the cable car to the top of Tampa Mountain for the best views of the city. Brasov will definitely steal your heart! 

49. Hallstatt, Austria

If you’re looking for picturesque towns in Europe, you have to visit Hallstatt . It has a population of only 800 people but it receives more than 1 million tourists each year.

This postcard-perfect town is situated on the shore of a beautiful lake surrounded by tall mountains. If you’re visiting Salzburg, I recommend taking a day trip to beautiful Hallstatt .

48. Ivalo, Finland

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Lapland ? The first city that comes to mind when thinking about Lapland is Rovaniemi but there are many other winter wonderlands that are worth visiting in Lapland.

One of them is Ivalo. This hidden gem in Europe is the perfect destination for a winter holiday. You can sleep in a glass igloo , go husky sledding , and even meet Santa!

47. Haarlem, Netherlands

If you want to avoid the crowds, one of the Europe’s best towns to visit is Haarlem . Located just a short train ride away from Amsterdam, Haarlem is the perfect destination for those who want to relax and enjoy the Netherlands’ culture and history.

Take a boat tour, visit Grote Markt, and admire the beautiful Molen de Adriaan. Don’t hesitate to get lost on the narrow streets. You’ll discover hidden courtyards and pretty canals.

46. Colmar, France

Colmar is located in the Alsace region, at the border between France and Germany and very close to Switzerland. It’s well known for its fairy-tale-like houses and winding canals. Each house in this town is painted in bright colors, complemented by wooden architectural details.

This pretty European town can be visited in only one day. Don’t expect to find a bustling city, with lots of activities. Colmar is rather relaxed. Walk around the city and explore it!

45. Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. Its charming old town and beautiful churches are some of the most popular tourist attractions. While you’re here, don’t forget to try the famous Ghent Noses (traditional gummy sweets).

Ghent can be visited as a day trip from either Brussels or Bruges and it’s easily accessible by train. If you only have a few hours in this beautiful city, I recommend taking a boat tour to explore it!

44. Hydra, Greece

Take a day cruise from Athens and you’ll arrive in Hydra, the only inhabited island in Greece with no cars. Eat some delicious ice-cream, shop for souvenirs, and admire the views.

Hydra is small enough to be explored on foot but if you want, you can use donkeys for transport. If you have time, you can try scuba diving. The marine life near Hydra is incredible.

43. Menton, France

When exploring Cote D’Azur, don’t hesitate to stop for at least one day in Menton. With colorful houses, beautiful architecture, and stunning beaches, Menton is one of the most scenic destinations in Europe.

Explore the old town, drink Limoncello, and relax on the beach. One thing is certain – you can’t leave Menton without falling in love with it.

42. Reine, Norway

If you’re looking for charming towns in Europe, make sure to visit Reine in Norway. When it comes to natural scenery, you can find plenty of breathtaking landscapes in Reine.

The fishermen’s red and white huts and the majestic mountains blend, creating an unforgettable view. If you’re visiting Reine during winter, you can even see the Northern Lights!

41. Bled, Slovenia

Famous for the picturesque small island situated in the middle of Bled Lake, Bled is a small corner of paradise and one of the most visited places in Slovenia.

While in Bled, take a walk to the castle, visit Vintgar Gorge, and take a boat tour around the lake. Also, don’t hesitate to try the delicious cream cake called Kremsnita.

40. Bellagio, Italy

Lake Como is a glamorous and romantic destination, perfect for an escape in the middle of nature. Also called the Pearl of Lake Como, Bellagio is a mix of luxurious villas, jawdropping views, and delicious food.

If you’re looking for the most scenic places in Europe, Bellagio is definitely one of them. Plan to spend at least one day here and you’ll fall in love with this place!

39. Zermatt, Switzerland

If you want to see some of Switzerland’s most iconic mountains such as Matterhorn, Weisshorn, or Monte Rosa, stop for a few days in Zermatt. This is one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe and the views here are simply stunning.

Zermatt is the perfect destination for skiing, hiking, and trekking. If you only want to admire the alpine landscapes without getting tired, you can use the cable cars.

38. Casares, Spain

This beautiful hillside village in Spain is located in the western region of Costa del Sol. In its white houses scattered around the hill live about 3 thousand people. 

Get lost on the narrow streets, visit the San Sebastian Church, and climb to the top of the hill for some incredible views. Casares is the perfect holiday destinations for those who want to unwind.

37. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

One of the prettiest places in Europe is Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This Medieval town feels like a real-life movie set. Some of the colorful houses here date back from the 900s.

The most iconic tourist attraction in Rothenburg is Plönlein Corner. This beautiful small square has been featured in many famous movies, including Beauty and the Beast (2017). If you want to avoid the crowds, make sure to wake up early in the morning!

36. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

You can’t visit the Czech Republic without stopping in the beautiful South Bohemian town named Cesky Krumlov. If you’re looking for hidden gems in Europe, this is one of them!

With a giant castle overlooking the city, and a winding river making its way through the old town, Cesky Krumlov is a place with many fascinating tourist attractions waiting to be discovered.

35. Split, Croatia

When exploring Croatia, stop for a few days in Split. Get lost in the maze of cobbled streets and you’ll discover beautiful souvenir shops, local restaurants, and pretty boutique hotels.

Split is one of the most visited destinations in Croatia thanks to its beauty. Every corner of this town is postcard-perfect. 

34. Giethoorn, Netherlands

Giethoorn is one of the most famous fairytale towns in Europe. It’s also called the “Venice of the North” or the “City with no roads”. The only way to visit this small town is on foot or by boat.

You can visit Giethoorn as a day trip from Amsterdam . While you’re here, visit the Museum de Oude Aarde. Here you’ll find an impressive collection of gemstones and minerals. Also, if you want to see how a traditional Dutch farmhouse looks like, don’t skip the Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus. 

33. Alberobello, Italy

Situated in the region of Puglia, this one of Europe’s prettiest towns. Alberobello is well known for the beautiful conical-roofed houses called trulli.

With a population of a little over 10,000, Alberobello is now a popular tourist destination. People from all over the world come here to admire the unique white houses and take memorable photos.

32. Sintra, Portugal

Sintra, the city of castles, palaces, and impressive gardens. Take a day trip from the busy Lisbon and you’ll arrive at this oasis of pure beauty.

Stop at the colorful Pena Palace, visit the famous Quinta de Ragleira, explore Castelo dos Mouros, and stop at the impressive Montserrate Palace. For a stunning sunset, head to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in Europe.

31. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Welcome to one of the most beautiful villages in Europe! Mostar is one of the most visited destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina and for good reason.

Cross Stari Most Bridge and admire the views. Did you know that some adrenaline seekers jump from this 24-meter tall bridge straight into the river? That’s pretty crazy.

30. Kotor, Montenegro

Situated on a corner of the stunning Bay of Kotor, this Medieval town is one of the most underrated European destinations. Visit the Kotor Cathedral, hike to the fortress and you’ll fall in love with this place.

If you have enough time, take a day trip to the beautiful village of Perast. The Bay of Kotor is full of hidden gems and stunning views!

29. Vernazza, Italy

Home to only 850 people, Vernazza is one of the five towns of Cinque Terre and a huge tourist attraction. Known for its pastel-colored houses and beautiful beach, Vernazza is small enough to be explored in one day.

Eat a delicious pizza, drink a glass of wine, and enjoy this unique town. At sunset, head to the beach and relax for a few moments while enjoying the view.

28. Castle Combe, England

Take a step back in time and visit Castle Combe in England. An interesting fact about this town is that no new houses have been built here since the 1600s.

This beautiful Medieval town is the perfect destination for a day trip. Explore its beautiful alleys and admire the stunning cottages lined up along the streets. Caslte Combe is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

27. Zalipie, Poland

As soon as you’ll step foot in Zalipie, you’ll be stunned by the flower patterns painted all over the houses in this little village. There’s no other place like Zalipie. 

Apart from the houses, patterns are painted on barns, furniture, fences, everything! The atmosphere here is incredible and every corner of this village looks like a scene from a fairytale.

26. Sighisoara, Romania

Located in the heart of Transylvania, Sighisoara is one of the most underrated European towns. A fact not many know about this place is that Sighisoara is Europe’s last remaining inhabited medieval citadel.

One of the main attractions is the Clock Tower. Climb to the top for a panoramic view. While you’re in Sighisoara, also stop at Count Dracula’s birthplace.

25. Rovinj, Croatia

Our search for the prettiest towns in Europe continues with beautiful Rovinj. This coastal town is best to be explored on foot.

You’ll pass by colorful houses, beautiful souvenir shops, and art galleries. Don’t worry if you’ll get lost inside the maze of narrow alleys. They will lead you to beautiful hidden courtyards.

24. Olvera, Spain

Once a Moorish Fortress, now a quaint village in Andalusia, Olvera is one of those places forgotten by mass tourism. It’s the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing holiday.

Olvera can be visited as a day trip from Seville or Malaga. Stop by the beautiful Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación Church and the Olvera Castle and find out more about the history of this village.

23. Burano, Italy

The brightly colored houses of Burano attract thousands of tourists every day. Easily accessible as a day trip from Venice, Burano was once a fishing village.

Nowadays, the colorful houses are an Instagram sensation. A dream for every photographer, Burano is a small island of only 500 meters across at its longest point. While you’re here, stop by the Leaning Tower.

22. Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

One of the best small towns in Europe is Veliko Tarnovo . Not many tourists choose Bulgaria as their holiday destination and that’s a shame. Veliko Tarnovo is a charming small town, with beautiful houses scattered on hills.

Wander the streets, visit Trapezitsa Fortress, and if you have enough time take a day trip to the UFO-like monument called Buzludzha .

21. Kufstein, Austria

This list of beautiful villages in Europe isn’t complete without Kufstein. Located between Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Munich, Kufstein is a Medieval town, worth exploring for at least one day.

The streets are filled with traditional restaurants, archways, and boutique stores waiting to be explored. Make sure to visit the beautiful Kufstein Fortress which is home to the world’s largest organ with 4,948 pipes.

20. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is probably one of the most romantic cities in the world. With countless tall towers overlooking the city, picturesque canals, and fascinating museums, Bruges is the perfect destination for anybody.

One of the most iconic corners of this city is Rozenhoedkaai. Prepare your camera because you’ll want to take lots of photos here.

19. Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Well known for the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, this small town is an ideal day trip destination from Prague. If you have the time to spend more days here, don’t hesitate to try the famous hot springs!

There are many things you can do in this charming European town such as tasting Becherovka, visiting the Diana Observation Tower, or visiting the Museum of Glass.

18. Kaysersberg, France

One of the highlights of traveling to Alsace is visiting the small colorful villages and Kaysersberg is one of the secret small towns you have to visit in Europe.

Get lost on the narrow streets, cross beautiful stone bridges, and admire the ruins of Chateau de Kaysersberg. Don’t forget to admire the houses! Most of them date from the 16th and 17th centuries.

17. Lucerne, Switzerland

Located in the Swiss Alps, Lucerne is surrounded by majestic mountains. Mount Pilatus is standing at 2.128 meters above the city and is one of the main tourist attractions in the area.

Apart from the beautiful nature, Lucerne has a charming old town, waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for unique hotels in the area, book a night in a real castle – Chateau Gutsch.

16. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? Well, in case you didn’t know already Dubrovnik was one of the filming locations for King’s Landing.

It’s by far one of the most beautiful European old towns, tucked between thick walls. For the best views of Dubrovnik take the cable car to Srd Hill.

15. Oxford, England

When we think about Oxford, the first thing that comes first to mind is Oxford University. However, this English town has a lot more to offer. With world-class museums, great pubs, and stunning architecture, Oxford is the perfect destination for your holiday.

Take a walking tour, go punting, and visit the Oxford Castle. There are tons of activities waiting for you in this fairytale town.

14. Symi, Greece

Orange and yellow Greek houses lined up along the shore, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood waits for you in Symi, Greece. This picturesque European town is the perfect place to go for a day trip from Rhodes.

Stroll along the harbor, visit the Agios Ioannis Church or stop by the Folk Museum. There are lots of activities you can try on this beautiful Greek Island.

13. Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland

Only 200 people live in this small village in Iceland. Many tourists come to Vík to admire the beautiful coastline and get a glimpse of the stunning black sand. 

A few sea stacks can be seen near this village. They look like tall soldiers, guarding the city. Vík only has a few homes and a beautiful church on top of a hill but it’s worth visiting for a few hours.

12. Brno, Czech Republic

If you’re looking for unique European towns, you have to stop for at least one day in Brno. With bustling squares and a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions, Brno is an increasingly popular tourist attraction.

Hike to Špilberk Castle, admire the Moravian Square, and if you’re brave enough, visit the 2nd largest Ossuary in Europe. Brno is a beautiful destination and you should spend at least one day here.

11. Budva, Montenegro

The old town of Budva is a place full of history and culture. Budva’s history starts 2,500 years ago and today, this town is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Montenegro.

Known for its nightlife and beautiful beaches, Budva is one of Europe’s hidden gems. Explore its quaint old town and you’ll fall in love with this place.

10. Hvar, Croatia

Croatia is full of beautiful places and Hvar is one of them. With ancient fortresses, stunning sunsets, and Venetian architecture, Hvar Town is the perfect place to spend a few relaxing days.

Go to Dubovica Beach, visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and head to the fortress for some stunning views of the town and Pakleni Islands. To relax, go to one of the local restaurants and drink a glass of wine while admiring the sunset.

9. Bamberg, Germany

If you’re searching for charming towns in Europe, make sure to add Bamberg to your list. The rich history of this town remained trapped in the beautiful alleys and half-timbered houses.

While you’re here, make sure to stop and try a glass of smoked beer. After that, explore this Medieval town on foot and get your camera ready – every corner of this town is super photogenic.

8. Piran, Slovenia

Welcome to the beautiful coastal town of Piran. With colorful houses, a bustling harbor, and lots of tourist attractions, Piran is one of Europe’s off-the-beaten-path destinations.

For the best views, head to St. George Church or climb the Bell Tower. The sea of orange rooftops and the harbor are just some of the places that you can admire from above.

7. Gjogv, Faroe Islands

With a population of only 48,000 people, the Faroe Islands and its jaw-dropping landscape attracts more and more tourists every year. Gjogv is a tiny village, next to the ocean. It’s the perfect place to get a real taste of the local way of life.

There’s not much happening here. Life is simple but the views are to die for. Add this place to your bucket list and you won’t regret it.

6. Annecy, France

The old town of Annecy is also called the “Venice of the Alps”. Take a stroll on the cobblestone streets, wonder at the beautiful canals, and eat some delicious ice-cream.

The most popular and probably the most photographed place in this small town in France is Palais de l’Isle. Make sure to visit this beautiful corner during the night too when the lights from the surrounding buildings are reflected into the water.

5. Santana, Madeira, Portugal

This small town in Madeira has some of the most beautiful traditional homes. With triangular rooftops made from straws, these houses were used by local farmers.

Nowadays, most of these houses are kept as a tourist attraction and people from all around the world come to see them.

4. Portree, Scotland

One of the best small towns in Europe is beautiful Portree. Located in the Isle of Skye, this bustling port city has a population of only 2,500.

Here you’ll find delicious seafood, awesome pubs, and some pretty stunning views. While you’re here, take a day trip to the impressive rock formation called Old Man of Storr.

3. Telc, Czech Republic

It seems that the smallest cities are always the most beautiful. Located in Southern Moravia, Telc is a scenic town, filled with beautiful houses with Renaissance and Baroque facades.

Head to the town square and admire ornate homes with tall arches. Some of these homes have a mark on them, representing who used to live in them. For example, one of the houses has a pretzel sign on it, signifying that a baker used to live there.

2. Sibiu, Romania

Sibiu is one of the secret destinations in Europe. Even if this city is very popular among locals, not many international tourists come here. In the old town of Sibiu, you can find countless museums, local shops, and traditional restaurants.

While you’re in Sibiu, you have to try sarmale and papanasi, two traditional Romanian dishes. You’ll thank me later.

1. Smogen, Sweden

Our list of small cities in Europe comes to an end. Last but not least we’ll talk about beautiful Smogen in Sweden. Colorful houses guard the harbor while others are located on the cliff above.

This postcard-perfect town is an increasingly popular tourist destination. Put on some comfortable shoes and explore this village on foot!

Final thoughts

Our search for the best small towns led us to some of the most beautiful countries in Europe. All these destinations are stunning and I only wish I could visit them all.

How many of these towns and villages have you visited until now? Let me know in the comments section below.

To watch the Google story for this post, click here .

May the travel bug bite you!

Pin it for later!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

34 Comments

Aura, your article is so inspiring and beautifully written! Thanks to you, I discovered some places that are simply breathtaking and I added them on my travel list!

So glad to hear this! Europe is full of incredible places and I want to visit them all! Safe travels!

Wow all of them look heavenly ,just the kind of places I wish to visit.this post is super awesome and goes to my wishlist .thanks so much for sharing

This is such a nice post !!! Love it – i added it on the bucket list 🙂

Oh my goodness, so adorable 😍 I didn’t know most of these places existed and now my bucket list is so much longer. European small towns are so much fun to explore.

You should also visit Ptuj in Slovenia. I would love to visit all of this recomended places. 🙌

Thanks for the recommendation! Putj looks beautiful!

Nice collection and mind boggling tourist spots..

I’ve been lucky enough to visit almost all of these on the list but there are still about 8-10 that I would love to make it to one day!

Ah love Europe so much! it has so much to offer! Great post!

Wow, so many amazing and beautiful places. There are lots that I hadn’t heard of so thanks for sharing. The colourful houses of Smogen, Santana and Olvera are going straight to my bucket list. Madeira is hight on my list right now so Santana might be the first place I visit once I can travel again.

What an awesome list! Menton and Mostar have been on my to do list for a few years now. After reading this post, I think I’ll have to add Bruges and Olvera – actually everything is stunning! Thank you for sharing!

OMG what a bucket list! Literally drooling on the screen…I’m a huge Europe lover and I still haven’t been to many of these places. Can’t wait to be traveling again 🙂

Wow so many hidden gems in Europe! I definitely added a few of them to my bucket list, so thanks for sharing 🙂

These photos make me want to pack a bag right now, especially to the Faroe Islands. Hope we’re able to get out there soon! Definitely saving this one for later.

Până acum am vizitat 16 din cele 50 🙂

Thanks for sharing this info 😀

Lovely post! No Baltic countries? Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are teeming with natural beauty, lovely beaches, quaint villages, historic churches, and vibrant culture. If you haven’t visited yet, you definitely should! 🙂

Hi! Oh, I love Estonia! There are so many incredible places in Europe that are worth to be included in this top. Next time I’ll do a top 100 😀

All beautiful, but you left out Molyvos in Lesvos. Why not take a look?

Thanks for you suggestion! Lesvos looks incredible!

you Must need to add Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland..That’s heaven 🙂

Wooow, it really looks amazing! It was really hard only choosing 50 places to include on this list. I know there are many other beautiful places in Europe! Safe travels.

Taormina as well

There are so many beautiful places in Europe that deserve to be included in this list. Next time I will do a top 100. Haha

Oh nooooo. I haven’t heard of a lot of these, and all the ones I have heard of I’ve either been to or they’re already on my wish list!! I’m going to need sooo much more time to add all these as well! LOL

You are obviously from Romania adding 3 Romanian locations, which I’m not saying aren’t beautiful, but they aren’t even close to being in top 50 beautiful places to visit in Europe. Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Portugal etc. each have hundreds of amazing little villages and towns. Brasov.. really? :))

I have traveled to 40 countries and thousands of cities. For me, Brasov and Sibiu are some of the most beautiful cities in the world. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I know some may not agree with this list. I hope you found some new places you didn’t know about! Safe travels!

What amazing places! I wish I had this years ago on my cross Europe trip. I hit many of them but so many more to see. Fantastic post!

Sorry but Braşov > Sibiu

I have visited a few cities of your list, but still many to discover! I am glad you shared those less known pretty towns!

All Places are Beautiful…. Thanks for Sharing Dear ♥️

All places are so so so beautiful with full of Nature, Adventure, for Vacation, Romance, for couple, for children, for aged, wooow..Everything is in these places. Superb Article. Thank You so Much for Sharing

Omg hello Serbia,Slatibor Mountains??? And all the beautiful churches and monasteries! Russia,Ukraine,baltics…!!! Girl you need to travel more!

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25 Under-the-radar European Villages to Visit

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

While the sprawling capitals of London , Paris, and Rome are well worth a visit, the small towns dotting Europe's coastlines, countrysides, and mountain ranges offer all the beauty and culture with a local feel. For every bustling city, there are dozens of charming, hidden European villages, packed with family-run cafes, intimate hotels, and authentic experiences — you just have to know where to look. Start here, with our list of 25 European villages and towns to visit on your next big adventure — they make perfect day trips, overnight stays, or weeklong escapes. While you might recognize some of these destinations, many are hidden gems that offer under-the-radar experiences loved by locals.

Giornico, Switzerland

The charm of Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton of southern Switzerland, is the not-quite-here, not-quite-there, lost-in-time feel of the place. To fully appreciate it, drive north 35 miles from the popular lake resort towns of Ascona and Locarno and find the turnoff for Giornico, a stone relic of 14th-century Europe hiding off the main road. Descend into the valley and arrive at a trickling little river crossed by two arching stone bridges. The family-run restaurants of the region are called grotte, and they serve dishes like spezzatino (meat ragoût) with polenta and local Merlot.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, located on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro, has become an increasingly popular destination among travelers searching for a beautiful European riviera without the crowds typically found in France or Italy. The well-preserved old town packed with charming red-roofed buildings set against green hills and blue waters make this a stunning stop on the Dalmatian Coast.

Bolgheri, Italy

The Viale dei Cipressi, a three-mile road flanked by over 2,500 cypress trees (the only vegetation local buffalo don't eat), leads straight into Bolgheri, which is set amid the vineyards of southern Tuscany's Maremma. There's more to this village than just the dramatic arrival, however. Stop in at Caffé della Posta, on the main square, to try one of Bolgheri's reds: first produced in the 1980's, these wines now rival French Bordeaux.

Staufen im Breisgau, Germany

This enclave on the edge of the Black Forest in southern Germany is the ideal destination for a wine weekend. From Strasbourg, you'll pass hills covered with terraced vineyards; the statue of a fat, naked Bacchus signals that you've arrived at the tiny downtown. Main Street's pastel houses lead to the market place, which is crowned by the Town Hall, with a gothic inscription relating local history back to 770 on the façade. Join the locals at the outdoor wine bar, though a word to overindulgers: legend has it that any reveler who falls into one of the (sparkling-clean) irrigation ditches that run through town is destined to marry a local.

Lavenham, England

Lavenham, in Suffolk, may just be the prettiest town in England. It boasts more than 350 heritage houses and its high street is lined with the kind of bric-a-brac shops and teahouses (serving scones and clotted cream) that are on the endangered list throughout rural England — and all but extinct in glossier reaches, such as the Cotswolds and West Dorset.

Aberdour, Scotland

The train from Edinburgh stops at a Victorian station next to a riot of neatly planted flowers in a hidden glen in the shadow of a medieval castle. Aberdour is not car-friendly, but why should it be when anything you would want to see is in town and connected by well-kept walkways? In August, this hamlet serves as a tranquil base for visiting the Edinburgh International Festival, but for the rest of the year, it is a working village with a general store, cozy pubs, and even a shop dedicated to Wiccan supplies.

Norcia, Italy

In this eastern Umbrian citadel, artisanal culinary traditions endure. Pecorino cheese is aged for two years, trained dogs sniff out black truffles in the woodlands, and honey is sourced from the red wildflowers that bloom in the plains. But it's the cinghiale that takes pride of place. Throughout the centro storico, the scent of spiced wild-boar salumi carries from the norcineria (delis) into the traffic-free roads. Step past the prosciutti hanging in storefronts to find shopkeepers curing cuts of the pork with methods perfected over the past 800 years. Ask them to slice up fresh ciauscoli, and bring it to the Piazza San Benedetto, where villagers celebrate the Festival of Saint Benedict in the spring.

Roundstone, Ireland

No blackberries could taste better than the ones picked along the winding lanes of Roundstone. But even the berry-averse will find reasons to love this 19th-century fishing village. Climb Errisbeg Hill for a clear view of Connemara National Park's Twelve Bens: a mountain range rising over a vast peat bog. In case of rain — always in Ireland's cards — head to Malachy Kearns's shop, which sells handmade bodhran (Irish drums), or dry off by the fire at O'Dowds with a kit (a pint of Guinness and a shot of Irish whiskey).

Chassignolles, France

This village, popular with Marseilles' elite in the 1950's, promises dormant green volcanoes and winding streams assumed to have healing qualities. At a restored auberge , guests look out toward the 12th-century Romanesque church and can enjoy inventive meals made from local ingredients.

Folegandros, Greece

There's no mistaking it, this tranquil spot in the Cyclades has nothing in common with neighboring Santorini: no building stands above two stories and there are no boutiques or fancy restaurants. Instead, on this remote island in the Aegean, waves crash on pebbled beaches, goats scurry up the hills, and an old wooden windmill twists in the salty breeze. It's a delightfully quiet escape for those who have grown tired of Greece's more trammeled getaways.

Getaria, Spain

Were it not for San Sebastián, just 15 miles away, this Basque harborside village might have become Spain's next great getaway. Instead, the port is known mostly for its seafood — baby squid and turbot pulled from the Bay of Biscay and then grilled a la plancha. Prime dining is Saturday and Sunday lunch, when locals fill asadores dressed in creamy summer-weight cashmere (those in white-soled shoes arrived by boat) for that distinctly Spanish indulgence: a leisurely multicourse meal paired with bottles of white Rioja.

Marvão, Portugal

There are dramatic mountainside forts, and then there is Marvão, the king of them all. Located in the southeastern Alentejo region of Portugal, this town is centered around a Moorish castle that was Christianized in the 13th century. The stone complex, now laid open to the elements in a kind of tumbledown glory, sits atop a rocky hill, dominating the red-tile-roofed houses and convents that spill out onto curving streets to the east.

Terschelling, The Netherlands

Though just 85-odd miles from Amsterdam and northeast of Vlieland (nicknamed "Vli-biza" by Amsterdammers), the 18-mile-long island of Terschelling remains a haven for travelers craving tranquil stretches of sand in lieu of the thumping beach clubs on the mainland. Here, gabled 19th-century villas and clapboard houses are illuminated by the Brandaris lighthouse — the oldest surviving lighthouse in the Netherlands (built in 1594). When dusk falls, around midnight during the summer months, locals sit up late at bistros along the harbor drinking Jupiler beer and toasting their exceptionally good fortune.

Tisvildeleje, Denmark

Riding the train from Copenhagen to Tisvildeleje is like taking an 80-minute tour of every corner of Denmark — past suburbs, verdant countryside, and forested woodlands. The journey is well worth it: On the shore of the Kattegat Strait is a quiet seaside village with thatched-roof cottages along sand dunes beside the sea. For those who think that Denmark doesn't deliver a memorable beach escape, a visit to this sunny enclave will surely change your mind.

Arild, Sweden

Though there's plenty of natural beauty in Arild, a fishing village on a peninsula in southwest Sweden, the town's most notable site is actually man-made. In 1980, the artist Lars Vilks began nailing together driftwood and lumber in a nearby cove at the bottom of a hillside; he even declared the place an independent country called Ladonia. After police tried to dismantle the work, artists Christo and Joseph Beuys stepped in to protect the installation. Today the public art exhibit, officially christened Nimis, is the Scandinavian version of Los Angeles's Watts Towers. The maze of 300-foot aboveground tunnels and 45-foot-high climbing towers feels like an alternate — albeit somewhat unsturdy — universe for intrepid explorers.

Hellnar, Iceland

While the remnants of the fishing sheds built by Hellnar's 11th-century settlers may suggest that this town hasn't changed since the Vikings arrived, it is, in some ways, the most contemporary village in Iceland. The handful of residents — many of them small-boat fishermen — share a serious commitment to preserving the environment.

Slavonice, Czech Republic

During 41 years of Communist rule, Slavonice, halfway between Prague and Vienna, was too close to the Iron Curtain for the government's comfort. But since the Velvet Revolution in 1989, this off-the-radar hamlet — composed of two town squares and burgher houses painted with Renaissance-era graffiti of biblical scenes — has attracted painters and potters from Prague looking for refuge. We're not betting that this village will become a mini Berlin, but British-born architect John Lifton's Slavonice Institute, a center for art and progressive thought, may put the village on the art world map yet.

St. Mawes, England

As fishing villages go, the whitewashed cottages and tidy tearooms of St. Mawes, in southern Cornwall, feel like a stage set. In this quiet backwater, fishermen sell their catch on a quay, and in the evenings, you will find them (and other locals) drinking Cornish-brewed ale and Pimm's Cups at the pubs.

Saint-Geniès, France

The Périgord, in the Dordogne, is home to two of France's most coveted delicacies: foie gras and truffles. On market days in the tiny village of Saint-Geniès, two hours east of Bordeaux, shoppers tote wicker baskets to the town square, where apron-clad vendors hawk pommes salardaises (potatoes sautéed in duck fat and garlic) and saucissons rolled in herbs.

Kardamili, Greece

If you've heard murmurs that the jagged mountains and white-sand beaches of the Mani region are worth the trip from Athens, you're not alone. Insiders head there for a traditional experience: authentic Greek salads and moussaka at Lela's Taverna before spending the evening at the Elies Hotel's outdoor patio, which overlooks the Gulf of Messenia.

Ullastret, Spain

Spain's Baix Empordà region is chock-full of authentic towns, but local foodies have a favorite destination: Ullastret, home to El Fort, a restaurant and hotel run by Lola Puig. The village, located in Catalonia, is home to ancient archeological sites.

Hall in Tirol, Austria

Take a 10-minute train from Innsbruck straight into what feels like the Middle Ages. Hall in Tirol, established in 1303, has remained unusually intact thanks to the medieval embankment and the area's wealth from salt mining and minting. (Ample cash flow meant that the buildings were constructed from the finest materials.) But the allure comes from the surroundings: the Alps, with hiking and ski trails galore.

Koguva, Estonia

In this Estonian island hamlet — once a Swedish feudal territory — the local trades of fishing and shepherding have left the surrounding wilds untouched by large-scale agricultural development. Visitors can still catch glimpses of wild goats, fox, deer, moose, and — in spring — migrating swans; or head to the 60-foot Üügu Cliff to take in the views.

Les Baux-de-Provence, France

France's Provence region is absolutely filled with charming villages nestled between lavender fields, vineyards, and groves of olive trees. Les-Baux-de-Provence, a small village with panoramic views of the countryside, is an easy day trip from Arles and Avignon . Don't miss the Carrières de Lumières, with multimedia art shows housed inside a former quarry.

Viscri, Romania

This Saxon village got a lucky break when it became the beneficiary of the Mihai Eminescu Trust, a nonprofit overseen by Prince Charles that's devoted to protecting the heritage of Transylvania's country towns. In Viscri, that means the church and its cemetery (which dates back to the 12th century) is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Indigenous pear trees were replanted, the lone blacksmith has a new shop, and a new road along the pastel-colored brick houses and farms provides visitors — and the philanthropic elite — a glimpse into the authentic Saxon way of life.

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17 Most Charming Small Towns in Europe

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on April 3, 2024

When planning a vacation to Europe, some of the first destinations that come to mind will be the teeming cities of Paris in France , London in England or Berlin in Germany . Each of these metropolises is incredible, but they are far from all that Europe has to offer. By exploring some of the smaller towns across the continent, it is possible to see a more authentic, traditional side to Europe.

If you’re planning an upcoming getaway to the continent, here are just a few of the most beautiful small towns in Europe. Pick a few to add to your itinerary to fully experience the very best of what Europe has in store for travelers.

17. Portree [SEE MAP]

Off the coast of mainland Scotland is an island chain called the Inner Hebrides, and one of these islands is known as Skye. The capital of Skye is Portree, a remote but beautiful spot overlooking the Loch Portree itself.

Getting there is half the fun, particularly if you opt for an arrival by ferry. Portree is also known for its brightly colored houses that stand in a row just steps from Shingle Beach and the calm waters of the harbor.

16. Marsaxlokk [SEE MAP]

On the island of Malta is a small but scenic village called Marsaxlokk. This traditional fishing village on the south-east side of the island has an ancient history. It was once the base of a Roman temple dedicated to the god Juno, and today it is a mecca for those who love blue waters, fresh seafood and boating. You can pay to spend the day on a fishing boat or upgrade to a sailboat cruise along the coast.

15. Smogen [SEE MAP]

On Sweden’s western coast is the small town of Smogen, a coastal destination where arriving is half the fun. When visiting by car, you’ll approach Smogen over a stunning bridge, offering panoramic views over the bay below.

Once in Smogen, head to the harbor. Right in front of the water, small houses painted in bright colors are visible. Some homes are even built on cliffs, and the entire village is charming and quaint.

14. Bibury [SEE MAP]

In central England, a region called the Cotswolds is filled with a hilly landscape, wide open spaces and ample greenery. In the center of the Cotswolds is a small village called Bibury, where it looks like time stood still. The most iconic attraction in Bibury is the line of Arlington Row cottages, where thatched roofs are still the preferred choice among the local homeowners. Famed American entrepreneur Henry Ford through Bibury’s charm and row houses were the best part of England, and there is every chance that you’ll agree with his assessment.

13. Giethoorn [SEE MAP]

The city of Giethoorn is one of the oldest in the Netherlands , and its history dates back to the Flagellants from the 13th century. Canals built for irrigation and agriculture are everywhere in Giethoorn, giving many of the homes and restaurants waterfront views.

Lush greenery, manicured lawns and traditional architecture only increase the beauty of the town. Make the most of your time in Giethoorn by taking a canal boat tour and snapping photos of the many stunning bridges that span the water.

12. Cesky Krumlov [SEE MAP]

Be transported to a medieval fairy tale with a visit to Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic . The city itself is split by the waters of the Vltava River, and the center of Cesky Krumlov is an incredible Gothic 13th century castle.

Baroque housing straight from the 18th century lines the streets, paving the way to the breathing castle itself. Whether you’re eager to soak in the detailed architecture or natural scenic beauty, Cesky Krumlov has a number of picture-perfect views you will never forget.

11. Husavik [SEE MAP]

It’s not as busy as Reykjavik, but Húsavík in Northern Iceland is definitely worth a visit. The small town is widely regarded as the whale watching capital of Europe, and on summer boat trips you are all but guaranteed whale sightings.

Another popular pastime in this incredibly scenic destination is horseback riding. Icelandic breeds of horse are available for coastal rides, which is a truly breathtaking way to see the scenery.

10. Bled [SEE MAP]

Slovenia may not be the first European country you think of for natural beauty, but it is an underrated destination with some of the most remarkable scenery on the continent. One example is Bled, a small town on the shores of Lake Bled.

The Julian Alps serve as the backdrop for the town, and in the center of the lake itself is a small island topped with a charming white church. Bled truly looks like it has come straight from a romantic fairy tale, and it has to be seen to be believed.

9. Ronda [SEE MAP]

Surrounding the town of Ronda in Spain are major resorts like Malaga and Marbella. Ronda, however, is a step back in time, and you’ll find an amazing collection of historic architecture.

One of the most iconic ruins still in Ronda is the Arabic Bathhouse, which was built in the 14th century. Crossing the Puente Nuevo bridge across the El Tajo Gorge is probably the most popular thing to do in Ronda, as well as exploring the twisting, narrow streets of the old town.

8. Zermatt [SEE MAP]

In the heart of the Swiss Alps is Zermatt , known to be one of the most picturesque spots in Switzerland. Towering in the background of the village is the Matterhorn, one of the tallest Alpine peaks and a truly stunning snow-capped beauty.

Zermatt also happens to be free from cars, helping to preserve its traditional atmosphere. Whether you’re planning on skiing in Zermatt in the winter or boating on the Vispa River in the summer, the destination in unparalleled.

7. Rothenburg ob der Tauber [SEE MAP]

The medieval center of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most iconic and attractive places in all of Europe. The small German town built its city walls in the 14th century, and much of the architecture in the Old Town is similarly aged.

Seemingly untouched by time, Rothenburg ob der Tauber boasts medieval palaces, administrative buildings and the traditional Bavarian half-timbered homes. Walking tours are the best way to see the ancient walls and as much of the picturesque architecture as possible.

6. Eguisheim [SEE MAP]

Close to the Rhine River and the border with Germany is Eguisheim, a French destination unlike any other. Widely known as one of the top wine producing areas in Europe, Eguisheim is nestled in between green hills and countless vineyards.

Houses date from centuries past, and cobblestone streets haven’t been paved over. This is a quaint, picturesque spot to linger at a charming cafe with a glass or two of the local wine.

5. Perast [SEE MAP]

Montenegro’s coastal resorts are beautiful, but they can be crowded and filled with high-rise hotels and shopping malls. In contrast is Perast, a small village with just a few hundred residents. Perast is right on the water, and views from its concrete fishing piers and pebbled beaches are magnificent.

In Boka Bay is the island Gospa od Škrpjela, or Our Lady of the Rock, which is the home to an isolated but iconic cathedral that is the focus of many photographs from the Perast shoreline.

4. Hallstatt [SEE MAP]

One of Austria’s most beautiful destinations is Hallstatt, located on the banks of the Hallstätter See, or Lake Hallstatt. For thousands of years, people have been drawn to Hallstatt because of its salt mines.

Today, however, a major reason to visit is for the scenery. Mountains jut up directly behind the placid mountain lake, and you can find everything from caves to waterfalls just a short walk from the picturesque, historic city center of Hallstatt.

3. Reine [SEE MAP]

In the northernmost part of Norway are the Lofoten Islands, arguably the most scenic part of the country. There are no major metropolises here, but you will find the small village of Reine. Not only is Reine a prime spot for admiring wildlife in their natural habitats or getting a glimpse of the Northern Lights, it is also breathtakingly beautiful.

From Reine, you’ll see clear blue water, lush green landscapes and striking peaks that rise from the water. The homes are nearly all traditional and painted the same bright red shade.

2. Positano [SEE MAP]

The coastal town of Positano is on Italy’s Amalfi Coast , but most of its visitors appear to be day-trippers from nearby places like Sorrento. As a result, there are fewer tourists in the evening while the world-class beach views remain. Spend time around the harbor, where most of the accommodation, restaurants and shops are located.

The harbor itself is stunning, but it really comes to life at sunset. For an unforgettable adventure, charter a boat to see the coast of Positano from the water, and you’ll really be able to appreciate its beauty.

1. Oia [SEE MAP]

On the famed Greek island of Santorini is the clifftop village of Oia. Overlooking a caldera, Oia is a bucket-list spot for those who love breathtaking scenery. Miles of paths undulate up and down throughout the village and the surrounding landscape, offering countless views to soak up the vistas.

Sunset is the busiest time of day in Oia, because this Greek destination is known for its world-class sunsets, the pink sky illuminated by the sun dipping below the Aegean Sea.

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February 18, 2017 at 3:46 am

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27 of the best places to visit in Europe 

Sep 17, 2024 • 12 min read

From the amazing streets of Paris in autumn (pictured) to epic islands, here are Europe's best places to visit. Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

There is simply no way to tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, fascinating history, rich culture and dazzling artistic and culinary diversity. From sun-smooched islands to secret corners , there's always somewhere new to discover.

Europe’s wealth of attractions is its biggest single draw. Who hasn't dreamed of seeing Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s graceful canals, Paris’ Napoleonic splendor, and the multilayered historical and cultural canvas of London? There’s also a huge diversity of natural scenery: rugged Scottish Highlands dotted with glens and lochs; the flower fields and hilltop villages of Provence; the coastlines of the Adriatic and Aegean, speckled with thousands of islands. And those are just the highlights.

Some of Europe's most popular spots have felt the  effects of tourism in recent years, as increasing visitor numbers have impacted local populations, services and historic sites. But with a little planning and care, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime. Here are 27 of the best places to visit in Europe. 

1. London, UK

Truly one of the world’s greatest cities

London is mercurial and endlessly fascinating. You could spend a lifetime getting to know it, then realize the city has gone and changed again. Stretching back from the mighty River Thames, its lush parks and historic districts are crammed with extraordinary sights: royal palaces, towering cathedrals and remarkable museums and galleries. Add some of the world’s top theaters, restaurants , sports venues and shops, and you’ll be very reluctant to leave.

Travelers who want to dive deeper into London will be rewarded by exploring its varied and characterful neighborhoods , taking in the cool clubs of Shoreditch or the picturesque streets of Notting Hill. With more time, tack on a day trip to explore nature in the New Forest , admire the Roman ruins of Bath , or soak up the creativity of Brighton .

2. Venice, Italy

Magical city seemingly floating on water

A sunny winter’s day, with far fewer tourists around, is the perfect time to lap up Venice 's unique and magical atmosphere. Ditch your map and wander the shadowy back lanes of Dorsoduro while imagining secret assignations and whispered conspiracies at every turn. Then visit two of Venice’s top galleries, the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , which house works by many giants of Italian and European art.

In recent years, Venice has struggled under the pressures of mass tourism, and visitors should brush up on how to be mindful while traveling in this gorgeous but fragile city . A new entry fee for day-trippers may inspire people to stay longer, which is one way to get a deeper understanding of this incredible place.

3. Paris, France

Get up close to an architectural icon

Designed as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World Fair), the elegant, iconic Eiffel Tower has become the defining fixture of the  Paris skyline. In fact, it’s hard to imagine a city more iconic than the City of Light. From legendary culinary offerings and alluring nightlife to a seemingly endless selection of museums, galleries and flea markets , Paris is a travel dream made real. 

Spend your days wandering through the city’s 20 intriguing arrondissements (districts) , or head further afield on a day trip to Monet’s garden at Giverny or Marie Antoinette’s former home at Versailles . Whatever you do, it’ll be a trip to remember.

4. Rome, Italy

Classical ruins mixed with contemporary style

From the crumbling Colosseum to the ancient Forum and the timeless Via Appia Antica , few sights are more evocative than the ruins of ancient Rome . Two thousand years ago, this city was the center of the greatest empire of the ancient world, where gladiators battled and emperors lived in unimaginable luxury. Nowadays, its ancient sites have a haunting mystery; as you walk the cobbled paths, you can almost sense the ghosts in the air.

But don’t miss the city’s contemporary side. Shop for hip handbags or handmade jewelry in Rome’s coolest independent boutiques . Rub shoulders with locals over aperitivo (pre-meal drinks) at trendy bars or check out the street art in neighborhoods such as Ostiense and San Lorenzo . In a city that’s been around for thousands of years, there are always plenty of new treasures to find. 

5. Berlin, Germany

Catch the ever-changing zeitgeist

Nearly 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, it’s hard to believe that this most cosmopolitan of cities once marked one of the key frontiers in the Cold War. But reminders of Berlin 's divided past remain. Whether you’re passing the Brandenburg Gate , gazing at graffiti-covered sections of the old Berlin Wall at East Side Gallery or studying the exhibits at the DDR Museum , it’s an essential part of understanding the forces that have shaped Germany’s capital. From the past to the future – be sure to soak up the city's amazing modern touches, like its iconic club culture , unique independent shops and cool neighborhoods . 

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

A spectacular walled city

Dubrovnik 's main claim to fame is its historic city wall , considered among the grandest in the world, which surrounds luminous marble streets and finely ornamented buildings. Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, the walls are still remarkably intact, and the vistas over the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea are sublime, especially at dusk, when the fading light makes the hues dramatic and the panoramas unforgettable.

The city’s prominent role in the TV series Game of Thrones has caused a massive surge in visitors  ⁠– and in the number of tours taking people to all the starring spots. But travelers can still get to know the real Dubrovnik by diving deeper into its top attractions  and wandering outside of the Old Town.

7. Prague, Czechia

An architectural central European jewel

The capital of  Czechia (formerly Czech Republic), Prague is one of Europe’s most alluring and dynamic cities. For all its modern verve, some parts of town have hardly changed since medieval times. Cobbled cul-de-sacs twist and turn, framed by teetering townhouses, baroque buildings and graceful bridges.

If castles are your thing, Prague has an absolute beauty: a 1000-year-old fortress covering around 7 hectares (17 acres) – the world’s largest ancient castle complex. The Old Town is where you’ll find many of the city’s quintessential attractions , but you’ll be rewarded for exploring other intriguing neighborhoods ⁠– which also happen to be where you’ll find many of the city's best restaurants .

8. Vienna, Austria

Grand heart of a former empire

The monumentally graceful Hofburg palace whisks you back to the age of empires in Vienna . You can marvel at the treasury’s imperial crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Riding School and chandelier-lit apartments once occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth. The palace, a legacy of the 640-year-long Habsburg Empire, is rivaled in grandeur only by the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn , a Unesco World Heritage Site, and the baroque Schloss Belvedere , both set in exquisite gardens.

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands

World Heritage-listed canals and gabled buildings

To say residents of Amsterdam love the water is an understatement. Take a stroll beside the canals and check out the thousands of houseboats, or take a canal boat ride, and you'll soon understand why. From the water, you’ll notice a whole new set of architectural details, such as the ornamentation bedecking the city's famous bridges. Each time you pass an appealing canalside cafe terrace, mark the location for a later return.

Getting around in Amsterdam is a breeze, making it an ideal city for exploring hip neighborhoods in search of the best things to eat and drink . While there's always plenty to do in Amsterdam , sometimes the best experiences come from slowing down, skipping the tourist sights, and soaking up the city vibe. 

10. Budapest, Hungary

Beautiful capital city straddling the Danube 

Along both sides of the romantic Danube River, with the Buda Hills to the west and the start of the Great Plain to the east, Budapest is perhaps the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe. Parks brim with attractions, the architecture is second to none, museums are filled with treasures, pleasure boats sail up and down the scenic Danube Bend, Baroque and Turkish-era thermal baths billow steam and the city's nightlife throbs till dawn. 

11. Barcelona, Spain

See the genius of a visionary architect

Barcelona is famous for its Modernista architecture, including the iconic buildings of Antoni Gaudí. His masterpiece is the mighty cathedral La Sagrada Família , which remains a work in progress close to a century after its creator’s death. It’s a bizarre combination of crazy and classic – Gothic touches intersect with eccentric experimental flourishes and improbable angles. Even half completed, it’s a modern-day wonder.

Of course, there's much more to the Catalonian capital than its most famous church. Barcelona heaves with tapas restaurants, art museums and history-steeped neighborhoods ⁠– not to mention its incredible beaches . The city has been in the spotlight due to the high visitor numbers and the impact on local communities, so make sure you understand the issues before you go.

12. Lisbon, Portugal

Scenic city with soul

The district of Alfama , with its labyrinthine alleyways, hidden courtyards and curving, shadow-filled lanes, is a magical place to lose all sense of direction and delve into Lisbon 's soul. On the journey, you’ll pass breadbox-sized grocers, brilliantly tiled buildings and views of steeply pitched rooftops leading down to the glittering Tagus River. Pause at cozy taverns filled with easygoing chatter, with the scent of chargrilled sardines and the mournful rhythms of fado drifting in the breeze, and toast the city with a glass of Portugal's famous port wine.

13. The Scottish Highlands

Scenic grandeur and echoes of the past

Whether you explore on foot, by rail, or on a thrilling road trip, breathtaking views abound in the Scottish Highlands . From the regal charm of Royal Deeside to the brooding majesty of Glen Coe and the mysterious waters of sweeping Loch Ness , these are landscapes that inspire awe. The region is scattered with fairy-tale castles and the hiking is suitably glorious. Add in the Highland hospitality found in classic rural pubs and romantic country hotels, and you're guaranteed to forge memories in this unforgettable corner of Scotland . 

14. Dublin, Ireland

Pints of Guinness and literary connections

Whether you’re wandering around the leafy Georgian terraces of St Stephen’s Green or getting acquainted with the past at Kilmainham Gaol or Trinity College , you’re never far from a literary or historic sight in Dublin . Then there are the city’s pubs : there are few better places to down a pint than Dublin. You can even make a pilgrimage to the original Guinness brewery . Either way, you’ll surely make a few Irish friends along the way. 

15. Florence and Tuscany, Italy

Renaissance charm and timeless romance

The undulating hills of Tuscany , bathed in golden light and dotted with vineyards, sum up Italy’s attractions in a nutshell. Here, picture-perfect hilltop towns vie with magnificent scenery and some of Italy’s best food and wine. Experiencing Tuscany for the first time is one of Europe's great pleasures. Seek out the famed vintages of Chianti and stroll the evocative main square of historic Siena . 

Then there’s Florence – aah, Firenze! – home to what Unesco describes as "the greatest concentration of universally renowned works of art in the world." The Tuscan capital is packed with blockbuster museums , elegant churches and flawless Renaissance streetscapes. Naturally, a city this iconic also heaves with crowds, so make sure you plan your trip around the best times to visit.  

16. Copenhagen, Denmark

The cool kid on the Nordic block

Scandinavia is all about pared-back contemporary style – something that the Danish capital has in spades. Home to a thriving design scene, Copenhagen has Michelin-starred restaurants, hipster cafes and bars and swoon-worthy boutiques around every corner. Add in top-class museums and galleries and a 1000-year-old harbor with handsome historic architecture and you have the perfect Scandi city break. 

While Copenhagen is known for being expensive, there are ways to budget for your trip and plenty of free things to do in the city. Strolling around and soaking up the atmosphere won't cost you a Danish krone.

17. Andalucía, Spain

Vibrant cities studded with impressive architecture

Andalucía – al-Andalus in Moorish times – is awash with glorious architecture spanning eight centuries of Islamic rule in Spain and all the centuries since. Granada , Córdoba and Seville are the high points of a journey of extraordinary riches. In Granada, the palace complex of the Alhambra comes close to perfection, and is perhaps one of the most impressive works of Islamic architecture anywhere in the world. For many, this is Spain’s signature monument.

18. Ruins of Pompeii, Italy

Ancient city destroyed and preserved by Vesuvius

Frozen in its death throes, the sprawling, time-warped ruins of Pompeii near Naples hurtle visitors 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets and duck into lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters and even an ancient brothel. Then, in the eerie stillness, with your eye on the ominous profile of Mt Vesuvius, ponder the town’s final hours when the skies grew dark with choking volcanic ash. One of the most intriguing experiences in this ancient city is investigating the ongoing excavations, which continue to shed new light on life in 79 CE .

19. Reykjavík, Iceland

The world’s most northerly capital

More than half of the population of Iceland live in Reykjavík – a city smaller than Anchorage, Alaska – but even on the shortest visit you’ll be struck by the quirky character and creativity of the population. Despite being on the northern margins of Europe, on an island sculpted by volcanoes and ice, locals have forged a city packed with captivating art, rich cuisine and energetic nightlife, hosting an epic music scene. Learn about a history stretching back to Viking times and use the city as a base for trips to Iceland’s amazing natural wonders .

20. Provence, France

Gallic charm in the south of France

For many people, the pastoral landscapes of Provence are a French fantasy brought to life. Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, legendary wines, bustling markets and long, balmy evenings, perfect for enjoying the good life. For decades, the villages of Provence have been hot spots for vacationers and second-homers, inspired by a dreamy vision of rustic living.

Seek out the postcard-perfect view of lavender fields and medieval cloisters at the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque or grab an espresso among the students hanging out in Aix-en-Provence . Whatever you do, eating, drinking and living well will surely be on the menu. 

21. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Hike, ski and admire these postcard-perfect peaks

The stirring ramparts of the Swiss Alps grace chocolate bar wrappers and muesli packets, but nothing prepares you for the magic of seeing these mountains up close. The most famous summit, the Matterhorn, is a mesmerizing wedge of rock and ice that looms above the timber-chalet-filled village of Zermatt . Gaze at it from a tranquil cafe, hike in its shadow along the tangle of alpine paths above town with cowbells clinking in the distance, or pause on a ski slope and admire its craggy, chiseled outline. 

22. Istanbul, Türkiye

Where Europe meets Asia 

Serving stints as the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul is one of the world’s great cities, and an ancient crossroads of civilizations. This is true now more than ever with the growing profile of its main international airport. The historical highlights cluster in the district of Sultanahmet – where you'll find the Hagia Sophia , Blue Mosque , Topkapı Palace and Grand Bazaar – with the vast  Süleymaniye Mosque  crowning a hilltop in Eminönü. 

After soaking up Ottoman sights, dive into the city’s characterful neighborhoods , such as cool Kadıköy, with its coffee shops and independent art galleries, or go antique shopping in Fener and Balat. You can even use Istanbul as a base for day trips to explore the wine region of Thrace or the coastal villages of the Black Sea.

23. Athens, Greece

Monument-strewn capital of Ancient Greece

Greece has ancient monuments at seemingly every turn, but it’s in Athens where this ancient empire's greatest and most iconic monuments stand proud. High on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city, the Acropolis epitomizes the glory of ancient Greece, with its graceful Parthenon and 17,000-seat Theatre of Dionysos . Other impressive ruins littering this vibrant city include the Temple of Olympian Zeus and two agoras (marketplaces) – one Greek, one Roman – mingling with first-rate museums. 

When you’ve had your fill of architectural magnificence, fill up on Athens’ culinary brilliance, sampling local delights such as lukumades (crisp dough balls) and souvlaki kebabs. The city is also flush with great beaches , and pine-covered islands, atmospheric ancient sites and rugged hiking trails are only a day trip away . Just be alert to the heat – recent years have seen soaring summer temperatures linked to climate change, leading to closures at major sights.

24. Schloss Neuschwanstein, Germany

Fairy-tale castle in a fairy-tale setting

Rising from Alpine foothills in the heart of Bavaria in southeastern Germany, the 19th-century Schloss Neuschwanstein seems to spring from a child’s dream of a fairytale castle. Its pencil-thin turrets, vertiginous walls and glorious setting make it one of Europe’s most recognizable structures – indeed, it was the prototype for the castle in Disney's Cinderella . Rising near Füssen, the castle is at the southern end of the Romantic Road , making it the perfect stop on a beautiful German road trip.

25. Greek Islands, Greece

Whitewashed Mediterranean villages above a turquoise sea

Wherever you make landfall, the Greek Islands grab your attention and don’t let go. Whether you crave beaches, warm seas, history or nightlife, it's easy to find your own island in the sun. It's fair to say that popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos have suffered under the weight of overtourism, but there are plenty of isles to explore  that offer more off-the-beaten-path experiences. Try exploring the lush Ionian Islands  or the far-flung Dodecanese . Whichever sun-warmed island you choose, you're in for an incredible experience. Take time to plan the perfect island-hopping adventure and narrow down the islands that are right for you .

26. Ring of Kerry, Ireland

A wild and medieval Irish road trip

There’s nowhere quite like Ireland – and even within Ireland, there's nowhere quite like the Ring of Kerry . This 179km (111-mile) driving route around the Iveragh Peninsula captures all the essential elements of the Republic of Ireland on one memorable circuit. Wild and craggy landscapes frame isolated beaches, evocative ruined fortresses stand sentinel over wave-tossed Atlantic seas, and windswept mountains watch over villages and islands that could be nowhere else on earth but Ireland.

27. Oslo, Norway

Scandinavia’s gateway to the fjords

Oslo is doing everything it can to claim the prize as Europe’s capital of contemporary style, despite facing strong competition from nearby Copenhagen and other Nordic hubs. Oslo's angular Opera House evokes an iceberg in a fjord, public art is a national pastime, and the city’s extraordinary museums span the Viking age to Norway's modern state of contented enlightenment. It's a city to appreciate for its many merits, not merely a stopover on the road to the fjords.

When is the best season to visit Europe? 

Europe is a big place – the best time to visit will vary based on the countries you want to see, and your tolerance for heat, cold, and crowds. 

Visiting Europe in summer 

July and August are undoubtedly the busiest months in Europe, particularly in the most visited countries such as France, Italy, Spain and Greece. In recent years, Mediterranean regions have faced extreme heat and wildfires in the summer months, with popular attractions such as the Acropolis in Athens closing to tourists due to dangerously high temperatures. In France , the south heaves with visitors in the summer, but locals head out on their own summer vacations and many businesses around the country close in August, even in Paris .

Summer can be a great time to visit some of Europe’s cooler, northern regions, such as Scandinavia, where long days and warm temperatures make this a great time for outdoor pursuits – the midnight sun means you can enjoy bright evenings out that last well into the next morning. Across the continent, accommodation prices will be at their highest in summer, and booking well in advance is recommended. 

Visiting Europe in spring and autumn 

The spring (from April to May) and early autumn (September and October) are both great times to visit Europe, though spring school holidays and Easter vacations can bring crowds, closures and disruptions in many places. Crowds and prices will be smaller than in mid-summer, though destinations such as Italy remain busy throughout the year. Luckily, there are plenty of destinations in Europe that are perfectly suited for an autumn escape or spring break .

Visiting Europe in winter 

During the winter months, ski resorts throughout the Alps and other European mountain ranges flood with alpine enthusiasts, and shoppers crowd Christmas markets in major cities, but the cold season can bring closures in spots that depend on summer tourism, including some Greek islands. For a dose of winter sun , many European travelers look to sun-warmed islands such as the Balearics , the Canaries and Malta .

Can I visit multiple countries in Europe during my trip? 

With its many land borders, Europe was made for country-hopping ⁠– just ask the generations of backpackers and Interrailers who have meandered across it by road, rail and bicycle. How much of Europe you can see in one trip comes down to how much time you have and how packed you want your itinerary to be. 

Continental Europe is  well-connected by rail, and a resurgence of night trains is making it even easier to get around without the carbon footprint of flying. Travelers can also take the Eurostar train from continental Europe to Great Britain - much less hassle than traveling by plane!

However, be aware of the immigration restrictions that apply to the Schengen Area, which includes most of the countries in continental Europe. If you need to apply for a Schengen Visa, you'll be able to visit multiple European nations within the Schengen Area, but only for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. If you're lucky enough to have a passport from a European Union country, you can travel freely across Europe with few restrictions.

This article was first published Jun 12, 2024 and updated Sep 17, 2024.

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Dreamy Hidden Gems in Europe: 25+ Secret Small Towns You’ll Just Love

Planning a trip to Europe and looking for some unusual places to visit? Here’s my guide to 25+ hidden gems in Europe.

I love ferreting out unique and less touristy hidden gems in Europe.

In my lifetime of travels in Europe, it’s always the tiny picturesque towns that steal my heart, don’t let go, and form the sweetest and most indelible travel memories.

In these fairytale secret towns, you can (mostly) escape tourists and feel like you’re in a magical world apart from everyday life. Some of these less touristy hidden gems in Europe take some effort to get to and visit.

But with crowds becoming a problem in Europe, embracing off the beaten path destinations is a smart and satisfying way to experience Europe.

These tiny hidden gem towns in Europe may be less flashy than blockbuster destinations like London , Paris , or Rome .

But these untouched and appealing corners of Europe are guaranteed to enchant.

25+ Off the Beaten Path Hidden Gems in Europe

I’ve narrowed down my love list to 27 hidden gem towns in Europe. There’s many more I could add. I’m dreaming about them now.

But a blog post can only be so long. So let’s take the road less travelled and explore Europe’s best kept secrets and hidden gem towns.

1. Lausanne Switzerland: a Swiss Alpine Charmer

Lausanne is not Lucerne, though it sounds similar. Located on glittering Lake Geneva, Lausanne is one of Switzerland’s most stunning villages. But Lausanne usually gets ignored in favor of other Swiss hotspots. It shouldn’t.

Lausanne is a breath of fresh air, encircled with green trees and Alpine scenery. You can’t help but feel relaxed amid all the natural beauty.

Head to the town center and visit the cathedral for views. There’s a great lookout point there. Better yet, get out on the lake in a boat or up in the air in a helicopter.

Lausanne is also a bit of a foodie town. It’s known for three of life’s simple pleasures — chocolate, cheese, and wine.

There’s no shortage of cute eateries, chocolatiers, and gourmet shops. Sample the fondue at Lausanne’s oldest restaurant, Pinte Besson.

There’s things to do near Lausanne too. Take in the medieval Chillon Castle just 30 minutes away, fetchingly perched on a rock on the banks of Lake Geneva.

The beautiful terraced Lavaux vineyards are just 20 minutes away and a UNESCO site. Most of Switzerland’s wine isn’t exported, so try a complex white made from the Chasselas grape while you’re there.

2. Vaison-la-Romaine France: Medieval & Roman

The lovely Vaison-la-Romaine is an out of the way hidden gem in Provence . It’s in northern Provence.

It’s location may account for the fact that it’s not overrun with tourists. Vaison-la-Romaine is an ancient town made almost entirely of stone and dotted with cypress trees.

Seated on the Ouvèze River, the town is dual faceted and split in two, with an upper medieval town and a lower Roman town — an efficient double dose of history. Vaison-la-Romaine was one of my favorite stops in Provence.

Based in the lower city, the Roman part of Vaison-la-Romaine was discovered in 1907. It’s the most important Gallo-Roman site in France.

The luxuriousness of the restored patrician villas, filled with beautiful mosaics, reveal that Vaison was a prosperous Roman town.

When you’re done admiring the mosaics, head to the the 1st century Roman theater. No one will be there. Take center stage and sing your own aria.

READ : One Day In Vaison-la-Romaine Itinerary

3. Cordes-sur-Ciel France: Up in the Clouds

Cordes-sur-Ciel seems to sit in the sky. Hence its name, which translates to ropes on the sky.

It’s a beautiful hidden gem town in Europe, situated in the Occitanie region of France, near Albi and Toulouse .

Cordes-sur-Ciel is so ancient, so cobbled, so dreamy that it has a time warp feel. The dawn of modernity seems to have passed it over, exodus style.

What’s left is a sweetbox escape for those who want to fall back in time.

The little village began life in 1222. It was founded by Count Raymond VII of Toulouse.

During the Albigensian Crusade, the 20 year war between the Cathars and the French crown, Cordes-sur-Ciel was prosperous. Its wealth derived from the leather, textile, and silk industries.

Today, Cordes-sur-Ciel is an artsy village, a treasure trove of local art. Its cobbled streets are filled with quaint galleries, ateliers, and cats.

You can find contemporary painting, pottery, sculpture, handmade jewelry, glassware, woodcarvings, and artisanal leather.

You can also visit the Musée de l’Art du Sucre et du Chocolat, dedicated to sugar. As a lover of backed goods, I applaud this kind of museum.

And Cordes boasts the Jardin des Paradis. The garden is recognized as one of the most “Remarkable Gardens in France.”

If you visit between December and February, don’t miss the town’s annual truffle market. That’s when harvesters sell their rare “black gold.”

Cordes-sur-Ciel is a great day trip from Toulouse or Albi in France’s Occitanie region . If you want to read more about the idyllic hilltop village and how I almost lost my friend’s iPad in my trance-like state of adoration, read my story .

Click here to book a guided tour to Cordes and Albi from Toulouse.

4. Senlis France: Medieval Architecture

The secret hidden gem town of Senlis will appeal to medievalists and history-architecture buffs.

This hidden gem in Europe is a tad larger than more popular Sarlat in the south. But it has a similar vibe and is less visited.

If you’re day tripping from Paris , you can also combine a visit to Senlis with a visit to the Château de Chantilly, just 15 minutes away.

READ : Secret Day Trips From Paris

Senlis has a rich history. It’s a royal town. Senlis was the cradle of the Capet Dynasty.

Hugh Capet was the Lord of Senlis before becoming King in 987. Senlis was a royal seat from the time of Clovis in the 5th century to Henri IV in the 16-17th century.

Senlis is bursting with ancient buildings and relics from the 10th to 18th centuries. A large portion of its ancient Gallo-Roman walls are intact and you can admire the 16 lookout towers.

Then, stroll the winding cobblestone streets and admire the stone houses. Senlis is the kind of town you can get lost in. Many streets still sport names from the middles ages, signifying the occupation of their residents.

There’s also a historic abbey, a medieval cellar, and the ruins of a Roman arena that you can visit. Opposite the cathedral are the 12th century remains of a royal castle, now part of an open air garden.

Senlis’ cathedral, the Cathédrale de Notre Dame, is an imposing highlight of Senlis. Built between 1150 and 1191, it’s an impressive reminder of Senlis’ past power.

It has a 78 meter tower and a magnificent carved-stone Grand Portal that’s thought to have inspired the one in Chartres’ cathedral.

5. Riquewihr France: Beauty and the Beast

The hidden gem town of Riquewihr is situated between mountains and vineyards. It’s a tiny drop dead gorgeous village in the Alsace region of France near the German border.

Most people are too busy visiting romantic Strausburg and Colmar to stray to fairytale tiny hamlet. But Disney-inspired visitors will love this living museum.

Riquewihr was reputedly the inspiration for the movie The Beauty and the Beast (my favorite Disney movie because of its bookish heroine Belle).

The words “little town it’s a quiet village” may involuntarily spring into your head, while walking through Riquewhir. It’s quiet, but quietly lovely with its vibrantly hued homes and elaborate signs.

Stroll down Riquewihr’s pedestrianized main drag, what there is of it, called Rue du Général-de-Gaulle.

As you stroll, your head will be swiveling right and left until your reach the 13th century Dolder Tower and the picturesque Rue des Remparts.

But don’t stop there. Meander down the side streets to fuel your imagination.

Riquewihr is known for its Reisling wine. They’re winemaking shops in town. And you can spot the vineyards from the edge of the town. The tourist office has maps of the wine trails.

You can visit Riquewihr on a guided day trip from Strasbourg .

6. Frigiliana, Andalucia Spain: White Sugar Cube Houses

This is the prettiest village I saw on my geographical cure in southern Spain . In Frigiliana , everything is beautiful in a way that it almost never is.

Frigiliana is a spotless, secluded, perfectly coifed hidden gem in Europe. It’s dressed in blue and white with flowing orange and purple vines and potted blood red geraniums. Just dreamy.

If you’ve been busy visiting Moorish fortresses in Seville and Granada , you’ll be relieved that there’s almost nothing to do in Frigiliana.

I was ready to just sink in the rustic beauty. Oh, and meander into ceramic shops, purchasing some lovely items to bring home.

Frigiliana’s main attraction is its cobbled pedestrianized streets flanked with whitewashed houses, colorful doors, and potted plants. There’s a pathway through the middle of the village called the Calle Real.

But you must stray off the path and investigate all the nooks and cranies. The hills are steep. But the seniors of Frigiliana are hiking up and down; you can too.

For a killer view, hike up to the ruins of the Castle of Izar. From the old town, you climb up long flights of steps, narrow paths, and gravel tracks to the site of the old castle.

The trek is worth it. The castle overlooks the white village and the Mediterranean sea. You’ll also find signs warning you to be careful of rogue donkeys who might bite.

You can visit this hidden gem in Europe on a guided day tour from Malaga .

7. Cudillero, Asturias Spain: Charming Seaside Village

Cudillero is a ridiculously eye catching fishing village in the gorgeous Asturias region of northern Spain . It might be Spain’s prettiest seaside village.

READ : 10 Day Itinerary for Northern Spain

Cudillero is just 40 minutes from Oviedo and well worth the detour. A place of hills, you’ll have to park outside the teeny tiny town and walk in.

In Cudillero, time has stopped. White and pastel houses are piled in a mishmash on top of each other.

There’s a pleasingly startling contrast between the terra cotta roofs and the blue sea. It’s said that each house in the village matches the color of the owner’s fishing boat.

There are ample cafes to rest your feet, feast on seafood, and take in the sweeping views of the village and the sea.

Picture perfect Cudillero is really a must see gem in Europe. Don’t miss it. It’s an easy day trip from Oviedo or Gijon.

8. Evora Portugal: UNESCO Chapel of Bones

The UNESCO-listed Evora is tucked away in the Alentejo region of central Portugal.

Most visitors touring Portugal are busy exploring Lisbon or Porto . Or frolicking in the beachy Algarve region in the south.

But the UNESCO-listed Evora is a hidden gem in Europe that shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s a historic city known for its well-preserved landmarks, including Roman ruins and an impressive cathedral. Evora also seduces with charming cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses

READ : 10 Day Itinerary for Portugal

Evora is topped with a grand 14th century cathedral, commonly refered to as Evora Cathedral. But its official name is the Cathedral Of Nossa Senhora Da Assuncao.

The church isn’t particularly pretty itself. But it’s worth it to go inside just for the beautiful vistas over Evora from its balcony.

The star of Evora is its Chapel of Bones, attached to the large Royal Church of St. Francis. Franciscan monks slaved away in the early 17th century building this unusual site.

The story goes that the cemeteries in and around Evora were overflowing and taking up valuable land. The monks decided to relocate 5,000 corpses into a chapel.

But instead of interring them in a crypt, they put the bones on display. Above the door is a sign declaring “We bones, are here, waiting for yours.” It was likely a architectural sermon — material goods are transient.

While in Evora, you should also take a moment to admire the Roman Temple on Largo Conde de Vila Flor. It was discovered in 1870.

It’s since been restored. It’s all the was left of a Roman forum in Evora, but still an evocative reminder of the ancient time.

You can visit Evora on a guided day tour from Lisbon .

9. Sibenik Croatia: a UNESCO Cathedral

Situated on a sheltered bay, between Split and Zadar, tranquil Sibenik is a European hidden gem in Croatia. Most of the tourists are in nearby Split .

You can stroll its labyrinth of stoney alleyways and visit a must see piece of Gothic-Renaissance architecture: the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral. The gleaming white building is the beating heart of sleepy Sibenik.

Sibenik is one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic, dating from the 9th century. In 1160, it was conquered by the Venetians. They left their architectural and cultural imprint on both the town and its elegant cathedral.

READ : 10 Day Itinerary for Croatia

Sibenik Cathedral is the most important piece of Renaissance architecture in Croatia. It sits in what was Sibenik’s most important square in medieval times.

The cathedral is famous for being built with stone quarried from the Dalmatian islands. It’s reputed to be the world’s largest church built completely of stone, without brick or wooden supports.

Sibenik is also a Game of Thrones filming location. In HBO’s Game of Thrones , the town of Sibenik appears in Episodes 2, 7, and 9 of Season 5.

The cathedral doubles as parts of Braavos. It appears in Episode 9 as the Iron Bank, the greatest financial institution in the Free World.

Click here to book a guided walking tour of Sibenik. You can visit Sibenik on a guided day tour from Zadar .

10. Mantua Italy: Renaissance Haven

Italy is usually overflowing with tourists. But in the tiny undiscovered village of Mantua the world is still and quiet. Mantua must surely be one of Europe’s best kept secrets and hidden gems.

Mantua lies in the north of Italy in the Lombardy region, surrounded by three lakes. It’s a fairly easy day trip from Milan or Verona.

Mantua is the perfect place for strolling — with arcaded streets, cobbled lanes squares, and graceful buildings.

What makes Mantua especially dreamy is its Renaissance architecture, courtesy of the aristocratic Gonzaga family who ruled Mantua for four centuries.

You may want to book a  2 hour guided walking tour  for an overview of Mantua. You can also book a  3.5 hour guided private tour  of Mantua’s top attractions.

Here, you’ll find the grand Ducal Palace , the Te Palace , St. Peter Cathedral, the Teatro Bivbiena, and the Rotuno of San Lorenzo. For a tiny place, it’s just amazing.

READ : Guide To The Top Attractions In Mantua

Mantua’s most famed site is the Ducal Palace or Palazzo Ducale. It’s the second largest residential building in Europe, after the Vatican.

It’s a massive fortress-like residence. Inside, there’a maze of 600 ornate gilded, frescoed, and marbled rooms, topped with a Hall of Mirrors. And there’s the vast art collection of the Gonzaga dynasty.

The highlight is Andrea Mantegna’s groundbreaking Camera degli Sposi . It’s a UNESCO-listed decorative space.

The Camera is considered the first trompe l’oeil in the history of painting. It was considered revolutionary at the time.

You may want to book a guided tour of the Ducal Palace. You can book this  2 hour tour of the palace  or a  3 hour walking tour that incudes the palace .

The Te Palace is also worth a visit. Take the Via Principe Amedeo from the town center and walk for 20 minutes.

This historic building was the summer residence of the Gonzaga family. Te Palace was built for the pleasure loving son of Isabella d’Este. He fancied himself a Dionysis type, and blinged up the palace with sybaritic frescos.

Click here for a guided tour of Te Palace.

11. Monteriggioni Italy: Walled Village

Monteriggioni is an idyllic walled town in the Tuscany region of Italy. Just look how charming this hidden gem in Europe is.

It almost doesn’t look real. Monteriggioni was built by Sienna in the 13th century as a defense in its ongoing conflict with its rival, Florence.

There’s an upper and a lower parking lot. It’s especially pretty in the early morning or at sunset.

READ : 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany

Four euros gets you entry to the walls and the museum onsite. You only need an hour or two. If you want to have lunch or dinner, try Il Pozzo.

If you’re a fan of Assassin’s Creed , you’ll be glad to know that Monteriggioni is real. Though much smaller than depicted in the game.

The town also makes an appearance in Dante’s Divine Comedy . Dante compares the spiky turrets of Monteriggioni to giants surrounding the abyss.

You can visit Monteriggioni on a guided day tour from Florence with other medieval villages.

12. Stresa Italy: Italian Lake District

The Italian lake district is one of Italy’s prettiest regions, situated in the shadow of the Alps. The main lakes are Lake Como, Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore.

Most people settle in at the swishiest village, magical Bellagio on Lake Como. But on the western Lake Maggiore you’ll find a real treasure — Stresa.

Elegant laid back Stresa is easy to fall in love with. Grandiose villas line the waterfront promenade, which is made for leisurely strolling. The medieval streets are a delightful tangle.

But the best thing to do in Stresa is ferry over to the tiny off shore Borromean Islands — Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori, and Isolar Madre.

They’re open to the public between mid March and mid October. The highlight is the Borromeo Palace on Isola Bella with an 80 foot dome.

The powerful Borromeo family, like the Gozangas, were Lombardian aristocrats. Lake Maggiore was their personal playground. Their grand palace on Isola Bella is a Renaissance masterpiece.

Inside it’s exquisite, with an 8th century grotto, decorated floor to ceiling with shell motifs and mosaics. The terraced Italianate gardens are just luscious, with a wafting scent of jasmine floating in the air.

READ : 10 Day Italy Itinerary: Venice to Milan

You can visit Stresa and other Lake Maggiore destinations on a guided day tour from Milan .

13. Civita di Bagnoregio Italy: Hilltop Village

The Etruscans founded Civita di Bagnoregio over 2500 years ago. It’s largely unaltered ever since.

The isolated and picturesque Civita teeters on a hilltop in a vast canyon, north of Rome. The topography scares away most tourists, making it the perfect hidden gem in Europe for those willing to make the trek.

To access this little hamlet, you’ll have to ditch your car, walk across an elevated and steep 300 meter pedestrian bridge, and enter via a massive 12th century stone arch called the Porta Santa Maria. What could be more dreamy and surreal?

Once inside, the charms of Civita are subtle. There’s nothing special to do but look around in this rural village.

It’s just unadulterated old world Italy. The warm stone walls glow in the sunshine. Have a seat on the steps of San Donato Church, be suspended in time, and admire the flowerpots.

Civita is usually called “Italy’s jewel on the hill.” But it’s also nicknamed the “town that is dying” because of the town’s become a crumbling precipice.

Hillside erosion may cause the town to disappear. The erosion is due to rain and hillside streams.

On foggy days, like Cordes-sur-Ciel, Civita can seem suspended in the fog. Perhaps because of all these things, it’s a UNESCO candidate. Civita is a perfect day trip from nearby Orvieto and a longish day trip from Rome.

READ : 5 Day Itinerary for Rome

14. Bamburg Germany: a UNESCO Wonderland

Bamberg is an adorable hidden gem in Europe’s northern Bavaria region. It has crooked half timber houses, picturesque canals, and an elegant palace.

Dubbed the “city of seven hills,” Bamberg brims with authentic charm, medieval architecture, and fairytale vibes.

In 1993, its Alstadt, or old town, was declared a UNESCO site. I was immediately enchanted, on my day trip to Bamberg from Nuremberg .

Bamberg is home to some appealing curiosities — smoke beer, stuffed onions, the mysterious Bamberg Horseman, and it’s own “Little Venice.”

The horseman is a beautiful stone equestrian statue in Bamburg Cathedral. The sculptor is unknown. Historians have debated who it was meant to depict for 200 years.

If you’re touring Bavaria or on the Romantic Road in Germany, Bamberg is a fantastic stop or detour, especially if you’re a history lover or beer nerd.

There are a surprising number of things to do in Bamberg for a fairly small town of 75,000+. There are artistic treasures galore.

You could easily spend the whole day there. In fact, given its beer culture, you may want to stay overnight to indulge and hit the romantically-lit streets after the day trippers leave.

Bamberg’s old town is seriously swoon-worthy. It’s one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe. Everywhere you look, there’s vintage-y beauty with no modern eyesores.

You’ll be wide eyed as you wander around the blissy cobbled streets. Some of the prettiest ones are Karolinenestrasse and Dominikanerstrassse in the western part of Bamberg.

Click here to book a guided walking tour of Bamburg. You can also take an immersive medieval tour or a craft beer history tour ,

15. Landshut Germany: Pastel Streetscape

I swear I didn’t see more than a handful of tourists in little Landshut in Bavaria Germany. I stopped in this delightful hidden gem in Europe for a half day while driving from Passau to Munich .

Landshut was adorable. I guess it’s just eclipsed by the better known Bavarian tourist towns. Hopefully, it will stay that way.

Landshut’s two main streets, Altstadt and Neustadt, glimmer with beautiful pastel gabled houses. Some consider it one of the prettiest street ensembles in Germany.

In the middle of the old town you’ll find a beautiful Renaissance town hall. Landshut is also home to one of the world’s largest brick structures, St. Martin’s Church or Martinskirche.

It’s a beautiful church. It was the site of Landshut’s famous Landshuter Hochzeit, a Wittelsbach wedding held in 1475.

The wedding is reenacted in full period costumes during an annual festival.

It’s only a few steps from the Martinskirche to Dreifaltigkeitsplatz, where you’ll have your first look at the imposing Trausnitz Castle.

Founded in 1204 by Duke Ludwig I, Trausnitz was the family castle of the Wittelsbach family. In the 16th century, it was redone in a Renaissance style. The terrace of the castle has killer views over Landshut.

READ : Guide To Castles In Bavaria

I also had the most amazing lunch in Landshut. Italian is a popular cuisine in Bavaria. And the restaurant of Bellini in Landshut didn’t disappoint.

16. Cochem Germany: Fairytale Castle Town

Cochem is a little hidden gem in Europe on the Moselle River in Rhineland Germany. It’s an idyllic riverside town with fairytale architecture.

Cochem is famous for its doughty romantic castle built in the 11th century. The entire setting looks like something straight out of a movie set.

The Altstadt or old town is enchanting and could occupy your whole day. Its filled with gabled, half timbered buildings topped with Moselle slate tiles.

On the Markplatz, there’s a beautiful Baroque town hall, more historic architecture, and three medieval city gates.

Cochem’s main attraction is the stunning Reichsburg Castle. You can either hike or take the shuttle up.

The castle was built in 1130. But its current iteration dates from the 1870s. The castle’s most distinctive feature is its striking four story octagonal tower with mini turrets.

There are 40 minute guided tours. You can inspect the beautiful furnishings inside, courtesy of the Ravene family. The castle also offers killer views of the surrounding countryside.

Cochem is a good place to take a cruise down the Moselle River .

17. Dürnstein Austria: Austria’s Prettiest Village

Lying in the verdant Wachau Valley , Dürnstein may be Austria’s prettiest village. It’s just so darling, and charmingly sleepy.

Set against the forested hills, its beautiful blue abbey belltower is one of the Danube’s most striking sights. Dürnstein is an easy day trip from Vienna , only an hour away.

Start your visit to Dürnstein by hiking up to the ruins of a fairytale castle, the Kuenringerburg, set on a rocky slope. The craggy castle was erected in the 12th century.

It was destroyed during the 30 Years War, but later partially restored. The hike takes around 30 minutes. And you’ll have beautiful views over the Danube and to the village of Weissenkirchen.

The castle ruins are famous as the one time prison of King Richard the Lionheart. Richard was England’s crusader king.

In ungallant fashion, Richard may have cheated the Austrian Babenbergs out of their portion of booty from the Third Crusade. So off to jail he went. Richard was eventually sprung free by his troubadour.

When you’ve descended from the ruins, wander Dürnstein’s picturesque streets. The “new castle” was built in 1629.

It’s now a swishy hotel. Pass by the 16th century town hall, the Kuenring Tavern, the Pillary, St. Clara’s Church, and the romantic-looking Gothic charnel-house.

Don’t forget Dürnstein’s main attraction, its lovely wedding cake monastery. The abbey was constructed circa 1410.

But the new Baroque building was erected between 1720-33. It was modeled after nearby Melk Abbey . The abbey church was consecrated in 1723. There are colorful side altars and a creamy stucco vaulted nave.

You can visit Durnstein on a guided day tour from Vienna . You can also take a bike and wine tour from Vienna . I went on this tour and loved it.

18. Piran Slovenia: Seaside Beauty

I usually think of Slovenia as a gravely beautiful land of imposing green mountains and shimmering blue lakes. But on a slender finger of a peninsula, encircled by the sparkling Adriatic sea, sits the picturesque town of Piran .

Piran is a delicious hidden gem in Europe. You’ll feel like you’ve been power beamed to Tuscany . It’s a little jewel-like slice of Slovenia.

Semi-crumbling pastel facades that Michelangelo might have sculpted rise above ancient maze-like streets. Venetian architecture is adorned with tracery windows.

The compact historic core is one of the best preserved medieval sites in the Mediterranean. Piran’s reminiscent of Venice, but without the canals or hordes of tourists.

READ : Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia

Tartini Square is the heart of Piran’s old town. It’s a marble-paved, sherbet-toned, red roofed oval designed by Boris Podrecca.

Tartini Square is full of chic bars, alfresco cafes, and colorful houses. It’s a splendid place to snack and people watch. As you people watch, try the “Hugo,” Piran’s signature drink. It’s a tasty mix of elderflower liqueur and Italian prosecco.

Be sure to stroll along the picturesque harbor. The marina is decorated with bobbing boats, dozens of white yachts, and a pair of Christmas colored lighthouses.

It’s incredibly picturesque and the perfect laid back place for a “wind in your hair” languorous promenade. Or a sunset.

You can book a guided walking tour of Piran , a guided sunset tour of Piran , or book a guided day tour from Slovenia’s capitol Ljubljana .

19. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Humped Back Bridges

Ancient Mostar isn’t quite as secret as it used to be. But its still one of Europe’s off the beaten path hidden gems.

The Balkan town is nestled in the small Balkan nation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar can be visited on a day trip from Dubrovnik or Split in Croatia or from Sarajevo.

READ : 2 Day Itinerary for Dubrovnik

Mostar’s most famous attraction is its adorable humped back bridge, Stari Most. It was originally built in the 16th century, but was a casualty in the Bosnian War.

The bridge was rebuilt in 2004. At both ends of the bridge, you’ll find fortified towers.

Mostar’s stony old town sprawls out in either direction from the bridge. The town seems entirely made of limestone. Tucked away on a little side street is another fetching bridge, the little Crooked Bridge. It’s a miniaturized version of Stari Most.

You should also visit Mostar’s bazaar, which has the look and feel of an Ottoman enclave. And see its grandest mosque, the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.

The mosque dates from the 16th century, but was also rebuilt. If you climb the mosque’s tower, you’ll have a sweet view of Stari Most.

At the end of your day, take the long staircase down to the banks of the Neretva River. You’ll have a nice perspective view of the town and may see young men bridge jumping into the clear water.

READ : 8 Sample One Week Itineraries For Central Europe

You can book a 2 hour guided walking tour of Mostar . You can go on a guided street food tour to taste Mostar’s unique food and beer. You can also book a guided tour to Mostar from Dubrovnik or a tour to Mostar from Split .

20. Delft, The Netherlands: Postcard Perfect Canals

Delft is the largest of the places I’ve listed. But it’s still just adorable, a city of orange and blue. Delft is tucked away enough so that not too many tourists descend.

Delft is an easy day trip from The Hague, Rotterdam, or Amsterdam. And it’s home to iconic Delftware blue pottery, which you’d probably recognize upon sight.

Delft is a pretty university town with a small town vibe and old fashioned charm. It’s ringed by eye catching canals. The best thing to do in Delft is wander aimlessly. You can also explore the entirety of Delft via bicycle.

The center of Delft is the Markt. There, you’ll find the Deft City Hall and the New Church. If you’re feeling ambitious, climb the narrow winding staircase up the tower of the New Church for stunning views.

You can book a guided walking tour of Delft or a guided day tour from Brussels .

21. Tourtour, France

Tourtour is an adorable hidden gem in Provence . Like Cordes-sur-Ciel in Occitanie, it’s a fairytale village in the sky, actually nicknamed the “village in the sky in Provence.” Tourtour is listed as one of France’s les plus beaux villages and is known for its wine.

The main thing to do is stroll the cobbled streets of the well-restored authentic village. They’re lined with pretty Provencal homes in pastel hues or stone. Admire the many fountains and manicured gardens in the pretty squares.

True to its name, which translates to “tower towers,” Tourtour has two large towers, the 11th century Grimaud Tower and the 17th century Clock Tower.

Be sure to pop into Stadsbakkerij de Diamanten Ring, Delft’s oldest bakery with a lovely interior. Or grab lunch at Kek, a pretty place with healthy options. Delft will delight.

Tourtour also has two turreted castles. In the historic center, the most ancient castle dates from the 12th century. It now houses an art gallery.

The other castle, Chateau de Raphelis, houses the town hall. Outside, it’s adorned with bluebonnet colored shutters. Inside, there are bronze sculptures by the artist Bernard Buffet, who spent his final years in the town.

Tourtour is dominated by the Church of St. Denis. Built in the 11th century, it was partially reconstructed in the 14th while maintaining its Romanesque style.

The church has three bells from the 17th century. The panoramic views from the top are a sight to behold. In addition, Tourtour boasts no less than eight chapels.

22. Besalu, Spain

Located in the foothills of the Pyrenees, Besalu is a stunner of a hidden gem in Europe. It may be the most interesting Spanish village you’ve never visited.

Once the capital of Charlemagne’s 8th and 9th century feudal Spain, Besalu is the prototype of a well-preserved medieval town.

Besalu’s photogenic bumpy cobblestone streets and ancient stone buildings are charming. The center is Placa de la Lliberat, chock full of cafes and artisan shops.

The ancient town’s most emblematic sight is its 12th century fortified bridge, complete with crenellated battlements. But there are plenty of architectural treats in Besalu.

Sant Vicente is Besalu’s best Romanesque church, dating from the 10th century. It has a particularly beautiful rose window.

The Church of Sant Pere, or Saint Peter, is all that remains of the 10th century Benedictine monastery torn down in 1835. The ruins of the convent of Santa Maria on the hill above town offer a panoramic vantage point over Besalu.

You can also visit rare Jewish baths, discovered in the 1960s. A tourist train leaves from the medieval bridge every 45 minutes and visits the baths and the two churches.

You can book a guided day tour of Besalu and other medieval towns from Barcleona .

23. Cuenca, Spain

Undiscovered Cuenca is a dramatic UNESCO-listed medieval town in the region of Castilla la Mancha. This is the land of Don Quixote.

Cuenca is an easy day trip from Madrid . It’s the perfect hidden gem in Europe to escape the hurly burly of the city.

READ : 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid

Cuenca is home to the gravity defying “hanging houses.” They cling precipitously to the top of vertical cliffs, jutting into thin air between two river canyons.

The best photo op is from the jaw dropping Puente de San Pablo, the bridge spanning a 130 foot gorge.

The main drag of Cuenca is Alfonso VIII Street. It’s lined with colorful red, blue, and yellow houses.

Plaza Mayor boasts an elegant ensemble of buildings, including the Anglo-Norman-Gothic styled Cuenca Cathedral. There are plenty of walking routes just outside the city to keep your legs and lungs pumping.

Don’t miss the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art. It’s housed in a 15th century complex, with loads of gallery space. The permanent collection houses the works of Spanish modernists who lived in the area. You can also find some El Greco pieces in the Bishop’s Palace.

If you want to dine with views over the Huecar River gorge, try Figon del Huecar or Posada de San Jose’s Restaurant. Cuenca’s speciality is lamb.

You can book a guided day tour of Cuena from Madrid . You can also combine Cuena and Toledo on a day trip from Madrid .

24. Vicenza, Italy

Vicenza is fantastic and underrated UNESCO-listed city where you can take a Palladian journey.

Vicenza is midway between the travel magnets of Venice and Verona and a hidden gem in Europe. It’s an easy day trip from either city.

Vicenza is one of Italy’s lesser known UNESCO sites. Despite its architectural cred, Vicenza is a rare hidden gem in Europe. It’s somewhat surprising because the town is so close to Venice and easy to access.

If you’re an architecture geek, Vicenza will appeal. While other Italian cities, like Florence , are known for their Italian art, Vicenza is synonymous with its Renaissance architecture.

The city is variously known as the “Pearl of the Renaissance,” the “Gold City,” and the “City of Palladio.”

Vicenza is especially renowned as the crucible for the celebrated architect Andrea Palladio. In 1994, the entire city of Vicenza became a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site specifically to protect Palladio’s palazzi and villas.

Vicenza’s streets are a veritable open air museum. Among the top attractions in Vicenza , be sure to see the Basilica Palladiana, the Olympic Theater, and Palazzo Chiericati.

Just outside Vicenza is the 16th century La Rotunda . This is Palladio’s most famous home.

It was once a trophy house and is now a sacred pilgrimage destination. La Rotunda was the inspiration for architecture in America, including Thomas Jefferson’s Monticelli.

You might want to book a 2.5 hour  walking tour of Palladio’s masterpieces  or a  1.5 hour walking tour with a local .

25. Tomar, Portugal

Aften overlooked hidden gem, Tomar is located in the less-touristy region of central Portugal. It’s a history’s buffs paradise.

For 700 years Tomar was the headquarters of the Knight’s Templar, an elite crusading force. They were later renamed the Order of Christ.

As such, Tomar boasts one of Portugal’s most important buildings — the complex of the Convent of Christ . As an ancient building, it has Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline architectural elements. It became a UNESCO site in 1983.

Tomar itself is also charming, sliced in two by the Nabao River. The main square is Republic Square. It’s filled with lovely homes, a 15th century church, and a black and white checkerboard pavement.

Head down the Via Rea de Serpa Pinto for a picturesque stroll of the town. Try one of Tomar’s special sweets, Beija-me Depressa (kiss me quick).

To visit Tomar, you can book a small group guided day tour from Lisbon . Or book a private full day tour from Lisbon to learn he history of the Knights Templar.

READ : Best Things To Do in Tomar In One Day

26. Castel Gondolfo, Italy

Castel Gandolfo is an easy day trip from Rome. It’s also one of the most picturesque and bucolic secret escapes from the capital’s chaos. 

The town is set amid the Alban Hills, with lush wooded hillsides. It looks out over the tranquil Lake Albano.For centuries, the town has been home to the the pope’s summer palace. The Pontifical Villas cover almost 136 acres (more than  Vatican City ).You may remember the palace and its magnificent gardens from the Netflix movie  The Two Popes .

The 17th century  Apostolic Palace  is a sight to behold. Inside, it’s ornate and richly decorated. Pope Francis opened the palace as a museum in 2014. There are seven rooms open for visitors to explore.

Click here to book a guided tour from Rome. You can also book a longer tour to the castle and the Barberini Gardens .

27. Trani, Italy

Nestled in Italy’s picturesque Puglia region, Trani is a hidden gem in Europe just waiting to be discovered. This enchanting town seamlessly weaves together history, culture, and beauty, creating an immersive and unforgettable Italian experience.

With its roots as a bustling medieval seaport, Trani’s allure lies in its cobbled streets, medieval architectural marvels, and a tranquil waterfront that paints an idyllic scene.

Trani’s rich historical tapestry comes to life in its meticulously preserved architectural wonders, none more captivating than the iconic Trani Cathedral that majestically graces the waterfront.

Wandering through its labyrinthine alleys, you’ll encounter charming squares adorned with local cafes and artisan boutiques. It all creates a vibrant atmosphere where the past and present coexist harmoniously.

At the heart of Trani’s architectural splendor stands the Cathedral of San Nicola Pellegrino, a prime example of Apulian Romanesque craftsmanship. Crafted from elegant pink limestone, the cathedral’s façade seemingly merges with the azure waters of the sea.

>>> Click to pre-book a city walking tour .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to 25+ secret hidden gems in Europe. You may enjoy these other Europe travel guides and resources:

• 3 0+ Best Small Cities in Europe
• Most Beautiful Towns in Andalusia
• Secret Hidden Gem Towns in Spain
• Secret Hidden Gem Towns in France
• Hidden Gems in Provence
• Most Beautiful Towns in Northern France
• Most Beautiful Towns in Germany
• 50 Best UNESCO Landmarks in Europe
• Famous Landmarks in Italy
• Famous Landmarks in Portugal
• Famous Landmarks in France

If you’d like to visit Europe’s off the beaten path hidden gems, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on August 16, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Europe Bucket List: 50 Places you must visit

If you are planning your first visit to Europe and don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to cut straight to the chase and answer the question: Where are the best places in Europe to visit? And with this Europe bucket list, we’ve listed the creme de la creme to help you plan your visit from start to finish.

1. Wake up in Positano, Italy

Let’s begin with perhaps my favourite small town in all of Europe to wake up and see the sunrise: Positano . Located in Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Positano is something out of a fairytale or film set. Quiet and serene, the town is built into the cliffs of the coastline, with colourful facades and terracotta rooftops. And what exactly do you do with your time on the Amalfi Coast, I hear you ask? Start by renting a Vespa and exploring the surrounding towns on a daily basis. There’s no shortage of adventures to be had – visiting Ravello , a quintessential town nestled into the hillside, or Capri , a popular island destination you can reach by ferry.

2. Visit Annecy, France

France has no shortage of photogenic towns to visit. But Annecy , located in southeastern France, is surely one of the most beautiful. Known for its Vieille Ville (old town), Annecy is characterised by cobbled streets, winding canals and colourful houses. In the backdrop of the city, you will notice snow-capped mountains and the expansive Lake Annecy, where you can enjoy rowboats in the summer and take in the stunning surrounds.

3. Spend a weekend in Copenhagen

There are few destinations in Europe I looked forward to as much as Copenhagen . Having long had an obsession with Denmark’s capital city, I eagerly visited in my early twenties and couldn’t wait to step foot off the train. Once on the ground, I was not disappointed. There are endless quaint cafes and bakeries to pop in and out of, especially in winter if you are bracing the cold weather. Then of course you have Nyhavn, the cities’ 17th-century waterfront harbour lined with colourful houses and merchants. If you ask me, this is a destination not to be missed if you find yourself venturing into Northern Europe.

Read more: This is how much each city in Europe costs (from most expensive to cheapest)

4. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Before I visited Iceland for the first time, I had a vision in my mind of what that trip would look like. And you’d better believe it included a visit to bathe in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous attraction. With healing properties and water rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, the blue lagoon is said to aid with skin diseases. And despite being a major tourist attraction with crowds and pricey tickets, given it is such a unique experience that can only be had here in Iceland, we’d say it is worth your while. Just be sure to spend at least a week exploring elsewhere in Iceland, as there are many more incredible sites and attractions on the horizon.

Read more: How to make the most of a stopover in Iceland

5. Visit Pena Palace, Portugal

Europe has no shortage of castles. In fact, you’ll be pressed to find a city or town that doesn’t boast a castle or two. But there are a handful of castles that rise above the rest (in this case, quite literally hidden in the clouds), making them worthy of a visit. Pena Palace in Sintra , Portugal, is one such castle worth visiting. This Romanticist castle in São Pedro de Penaferrim, a municipality of Sintra, overlooks the town from above. On a day with low mist, you won’t even see the castle from the town as it sits above the fog and appears to be floating in the clouds.

Read more: The best pastel de nata Recipe

6. Visit the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital, has one of the most beautiful old towns in all of Europe. This fairytale-like city has long been a World of Wanderlust favourite, since I first visited back in 2013 on my first full year of adventures solo across Europe. Tallinn’s cobblestoned Old Town exists inside an imposing wall, with many of the cities’ most preserved cafes and bakeries existing inside. You’ll also find plenty of authentic Baltic cuisine within the city walls, so be sure to allow time to perch up and watch the world pass you by. Be sure not to miss Raeapteek, the oldest pharmacy in Europe. Here you will find fascinating therapies, like Unicorn horn dust.

Read more: Cities to visit for your first time in Europe

7. Visit Peleș Castle, Romania

There are few castles in Europe as beautiful and ethereal as Peleș Castle in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains. Located near Sinaia in Romania, this castle exists on a medieval route linking Transylvania and Wallachia. Built between 1873 and 1914, the castle is commonly considered one of the most beautiful in all of Europe.

Read more: These are the 12 prettiest castles in Europe

8. Spend Christmas in Prague

Prague is an incredible city to visit any time of year, but there is nothing quite like Christmas time in Prague. Suddenly the streets come to life as living markets, with mulled wine and pretzels ready at your disposal. Central Europe as a whole really comes to life with the arrival of Christmas markets, so if you fancy a fairytale visit to Prague, this is certainly the best time of year to find yourself strolling across the Charles Bridge in search of Christmas magic.

Read more: What to know before you visit Prague

9. Visit Vienna, Austria’s capital

Speaking of Central Europe, there is nowhere quite like Vienna . Once described to me as a more refined version of Paris, Vienna certainly feels regal and refined. There are so many wonderful things to do in this city, ranging from indoors to outdoors. I would recommend spending most of your time slowing down, enjoying cultural immersion in the cafe culture of Vienna and feeling as if you have stepped back in time.

Read more: The 6 Best Coffee Houses in Vienna

10. Visit the Red Square, Moscow

Moscow is hands down one of the most exquisite cities in Europe. As the capital city of Russia, you can expect to see opulence on overdrive as you stand in the Red Square, the historical centre of the city of Moscow. Regarded as one of the most famous cities in Europe, from here you can view the Kremlin, Russia’s centre of governance, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral, the State Historical Museum and the GUM Department Store.

Read more: Sights to see for your first time in Moscow

11. Make your way to Rome, the Eternal City

If you are yet to visit Rome, the eternal city, you might have asked yourself, what makes Rome so special? This being the centre of the universe for a long period of time throughout history, the city of Rome has so much to offer visitors by way of history, culture, food and hospitality. There are too many must see attractions in Rome to list, so be sure to check out our Rome bucket list for a full list of all the places you cannot miss.

Read more: The 12 Best Kept Secrets in Rome

12. Discover Gaudí Architecture in Barcelona

The city of Barcelona is brimming with incredible architecture, sights, sounds and smells at every turn. A sensory overload, this city can often be overwhelming given it has so much to offer travelers. For this reason, we’d recommend centring your adventures in Barcelon around a theme. That could be food, culture, or in this case, Gaudí architecture. The city is full of masterpieces – namely Parc Güell (pictured), Casa Milá, Casa Batlló and so many more.

Read more: The 15 Best Things to do in Barcelona

13. Swoon over the Eiffel Tower in Paris

There is of course nothing or nowhere more iconic in Paris, than the Eiffel Tower. This monument is by far one of the most iconic monuments in all of Europe and under a blanket of night sky, it only becomes more magnificent. The best view of the Eiffel Tower is of course from afar and if you ask us, one of the most iconic views of the tower can be found atop the Arc de Triomphe. But don’t let that stop you from visiting the tower up close, as it becomes more and more clear just how large this impressive structure really is.

Read more: The 20 most Instagrammable locations in Paris

14. Walk the Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is certainly one of my favourite cities in all of Europe and if we’re talking about winter travel, I’d say Amsertdam takes the cake for my number one city to spend time in. But regardless of the season, this city is beautiful year-round. The canals are of course the main drawcard in Amsterdam, seamlessly lining the streets and adding to the undeniable romance of the city.

Read more: The solo traveler’s guide to Amsterdam

15. Explore Santorini on foot

Greece is full of incredible islands to explore, so if you’re planning to stop in during your European travels, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. And if time is not on your side, then skip straight over to Santorini for arguably the best Greek island to explore.

Read more: 20 Places to visit in the Balkans

16. See the London skyline from above

London is not only the most visited city in all of Europe, but often tops the list as the most visited city in the entire world. With a history that dates back to Roman times, London as we know it today is a blend of cultures and history, leaving much to be discovered. And as a sprawling city that takes days to discover, we recommend making your way to the top of The Shard building for a view of the city in its entirety. From here, you will really start to understand the layout and size of this city as a whole.

Read more: The best book stores in London

17. Discover Florence, Italy

One city that is always a favourite for travelers is Florence or Firenze as it is known in Italy. This city is highly regarded for its culture, musuems, architecture and fascinating history. Oh, and did we mentioned you will find gelaterias on almost every corner? You will need at least a few days in Florence to discover the must visit attractions, but even more if you want to scratch the surface.

Read more: A complete guide to Tuscany

18. Road trip around Ireland

Ireland is one of those countries where it is more about the journey than the destination. Granted, there are a vast number of sites and attractions throughout Ireland to visit, but we really think the journey itself is where the magic happens. Driving around Ireland is arguably the best way to see the country, so be sure to look into car rental before you go and plan for the long journey.

Read more: You can stay at Ireland’s most impressive castle

19. Visit Lisbon, Portugal

If you fancy a capital city with vibrancy on overload, then head over to Lisbon, Portugal. This city has long flown under the radar, but in recent years has found its footing as one of the must visit cities in Europe. The city is sprawling, hilly, and offers incredible views from the higher points. Be sure to save at least half a day to explore Alfama, a central neighbourhood with flavour and flair.

20. Visit Lapland, Finland

If you don’t mind the cold, a visit to Lapland in Finland is an experience like no other. It is here where you have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights, as well as having the opportunity to partake in a number of unusual winter activities – like dog sledding, visiting a Reindeer farm, or hiking in the forest.

21. Go yachting in Croatia

Chances are you have heard of the yacht week in Croatia, but have you ever thought of joining it? Croatia is one of the best destinations to visit in the summer months, as it offers a huge coastline to enjoy and island hop, as well as being more affordable than Western Europe alternatives.

22. Follow the trail of the Sound of Music in Salzburg

For fans of the Sound of Music, there is no city more appealing than Salzburg, which is also considered the most beautiful city in Austria. You can reach Salzburg by train from Vienna in around two hours, making it an option for a day trip but preferably a destination in itself. The city is incredibly beautiful to explore in itself, but many travellers make their way to Salzburg to join a Sound of Music tour. And if you loved the film, why wouldn’t you!

Read more: 101 Cities to Visit Before you Die

23. Visit the Mamma Mia Island of Skopelos, Greece

With so many Greek islands to choose from, the hardest part will be choosing which islands to visit and which to leave out. But for fans of the Mamma Mia film, the island of Skopelos is a great option. Not only was this one of the most used filming locations for the film, but it is also an incredible island to experience Greek culture.

24. Explore Montenegro in the Balkans

The Balkans offer some of the most underrated and undervisited countries and attractions in all of Europe. But with many travelers looking to get off the beaten path, that truth is slowly changing. If you fancy going out of your comfort zone and visiting somewhere out of the ordinary, Montenegro should be top of your list. There are endless small towns and cities to visit in Montenegro, many of which are located in the Bay of Kotor.

25. Road Trip through Tuscany

A region in central Italy, Tuscany has long been considered the most romantic and ethereal region in Italy to discover. And if you want to see all that Tuscany has to offer, the best way to do this will be via road trip. With the freedom to take your travels at your own pace, you will be able to discover many small towns the locals will share with you as insider secrets, plus some of the more popular cities and towns.

26. Visit the Algarve, Portugal

Located in the South of Portugal, the Algarve will always have a special place in our heart – as this is where we hosted our first ever World of Wanderlust trip! This is Portugal’s most loved holiday destination, for both locals and tourists visiting the country. And for good reason! There are many small coastal towns to discover, but the beaches are so beautiful, they are destinations in themselves.

27. Ride the train on Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland

Also known as the Harry Potter train, the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands is a surreal experience to have in real life, because it looks just the same as it does in the films! Be sure to book your train ticket in advance, as this has become one of the most popular things to do in Scotland.

28. Visit Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Bosnia & Herzegovina is a country that ofter goes overlooked by travelers, especially if you don’d already find yourself in the Balkan region. But if you make your way to Croatia, then you’re really just a short day trip away! Although we think Mostar is worthy of more than a day visit, it has become an increasingly popular day trip from Dubrovnik, Croatia. This small town offers great insight into the history of the country, so be sure to join a walking tour to get a running history of the town and country.

29. Slow down in the Cotswolds

Outside of London, there are endless cities and towns we could recommend across England. But no destination is more worthy than joining London on the Europe bucket list, than the Cotswolds. This is a great opportunity to slow down and take your time in the English countryside. Must visit towns include Bourton-on-the-water, Stow-on-the-wold and Bibury. But there are of course many more!

30. Visit Bruges, the most charming town in Belgium

Bruges is commonly considered one of the most beautiful towns in Europe and indeed, we have ourselves made the claim. So if you fancy photogenic small towns that are so beautiful they feel fairtytale-like, then Bruges cannot be missed.

Read more: These are the 25 most beautiful small towns in Europe

31. Visit Cesky Krumlov

Speaking of beautiful small towns, Cesky Krumlov in Czech Republic is another one of our choices that tops the list. This small town is just a short drive south of Prague, toward the border to Austria. So if you’ve got time to spare in Central Europe, there really is a lot to unpack in this region. And by way of small towns, Cesky Krumlov is a must visit.

32. Explore Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is one of our favourite destinations in Italy and until you visit for yourself, you never can truly grasp the beauty of this region. There are countless small towns located along the lake, many of which are best explored on foot. So jump on board one of the local ferry services and make your way in and out of the towns, starting with our handpicked favourite: Bellagio (pictured).

Read more: The best lake towns to visit across Europe

33. Explore the Rhine River, Germany

Germany is full of incredible towns to visit but if you ask us, many of these are located along the Rhine River. Certainly for romantics and couples, there are endless small towns to be discovered in this region of Germany. So if you fancy a cruise along the Rhine River or perhaps a road trip trailing through these small towns, you’ll be sure to stay busy journeying through this ethereal region of Germany.

34. Discover the Fjordlands, Norway

Norway is a destination in itself and if you ask us, you’ll need a week or two to even scratch the surface. But this being one of Europe’s most expensive countries to visit, a great way to visit Norway is in fact as part of a cruise. This way, you’ll get to experience all of the magic of the country without major expenses like hotels, food and travel from one place to the next. I travelled through the fjordlands of Norway this way a few years ago and it is a trip I will never forget.

35. Spend a weekend in Stockholm, Sweden

There are many beautiful cities in Scandinavia to discover, but perhaps my favourite of them all is Stockholm, Sweden. This city offers a bit of everything for design lovers – by way of museums, architecture, galleries, cafes, and beautiful Scandinavian furniture stores. You could spend an entire week here but for the sake of time and budget, give yourself a weekend instead.

36. Explore Budapest, Hungary

Despite once flying under the radar of European travel itienraries, Budapest has well and truly become discovered. This city is now considered a must visit destination on any Europe bucket list, so be sure to add it to yours. Located in Hungary in the heart of Europe, the city is buzzing with beautiful buildings, monuments, and of course, the famed public bath houses.

37. Visit the Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are most popular during the winter months but if you ask us, there’s never a bad time to visit. Exploring this region by train is an easy way to kick back and take it all in, all the while traveling from one town to the next. There are many great cities to visit in Switzerland too, but once you’ve visited the alps, you’ll see why this heart stopping region is a popular destination for travelers every year.

38. Row a boat on Lake Bled, Slovenia

Fancy visiting the most romantic lake in all of Europe? Then head on over to Lake Bled, Slovenia’s most famous tourist attraction and for good reason. There are many ways to see and experience the lake – including swimming in the summer, walking or riding a bike around the rim of the lake, but my personal favourite is to row a boat to the island in the heart of the lake.

39. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

As we said earlier, Europe has no shortage of castles. And in Germany, there are certainly many to be discovered. But if you pick just one, we recommend visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in the South of the country, neatly tucked away in Bavaria. This castle has a unique history and has since been dubbed the “Disney Castle” given its similarity to the logo. You can visit and tour ths castle seasonally, which is a great day trip on offer from Munich.

40. Visit Hallstatt, Austria’s prettiest lake town

Meanwhile in the central region of Europe, you might also want to add a little town by the name of Hallstatt to your Europe bucket list. This town is commonly considered the most beautiful lakeside town in all of Europe – and it isn’t hard to see why!

Read more: The prettiest lake towns in Europe

41. Ride a Gondola in Venice, Italy

If you find yourself in Italy, you are likely to stumble upon Venice, as it is one of the most visited cities in the country alongside Rome, Florence and Milan. And if you find yourself in Venice, you really must experience a gondola ride to get the full Venetian experience.

42. Visit the Acropolis, Greece

While Athens can often get a bad wrap in travel blogs and guides, there really is something so impressive and grounding about visiting the Acropolis . This ancient citadel is still preserved to this day and is certainly worthy of a visit while you transit en route to the nearby islands.

43. Attend Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

This list of Europe bucket list items would not be complete without mention of Germany’s Oktoberfest. The beer festival takes place annually and has become a huge drawcard for international travelers, especially those in their 20’s and 30’s seeking a fun social experience.

44. Explore Edinburgh

Many years ago we named Edinburgh the most underrated capital city in all of Europe and to this day, we stand by it. However, since then, visitors to Edinburgh have skyrocketed and the popularity of this city is now something to behold. But that doesn’t mean the charm has worn off and if you ask us, this is one of the most beautiful large cities in all of Europe. Especially for Harry Potter fans, as this is where soem of the books themselves were written.

45. Explore the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg, Russia

Russia’s two biggest cities are often where you will find international travelers and that’s for good reason. St Petersburg was once the capital city of Russia, and as such has a long list of attractions to offer. But there is one such attraction we’d argue surpasses all the rest. And that is, of course, the Hermitage Museum. Once a winter palace, the Hermitage today is home to countless artefacts, art works and is itself a living history.

46. Walk the city walls of Dubrovnik

If you find yourself in Croatia, then be sure to stop by Dubrovnik, the coastal city that has become a hot spot for international travelers. This walled city is as beautiful as it looks in films. And if it looks familiar, you might recognise the city as one of the main filming locations for popular HBO series Game of Thrones .

47. Explore Ljubljana, Europe’s most underrated Capital City

Speaking of underrated capital cities (at this point we have named a few), you really must add Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, to your Europe bucket list. This city is quaint, charming, and especially so in the summer months.

48. Walk through history in Poland

There are too many cities and towns in Poland you must visit to name just one, so we’ll name two: Warsaw (the capital) and Krakow (the gatway to Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration camps). Both of these cities offer insight into Poland’s turbulent past, and both are worthy of a visit on your tour of Eastern Europe.

49. Visit the most celebrated failure in architecture

The leaning tower of Pisa was in fact never supposed to be this way. But this work of architecture is perhaps the most celebrated failure of its kind, with many travelers makeing their way to Pisa just to take a photo with the icon.

50. Visit the wonders of Istanbul

Some may say we’ve saved the best ’til last and others may catch us out on a technicality – but we’d be doing you a disservice to not mention the wonders of Istanbul! This city is the largest in Turkey and straddles both Europe and Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. Across the city you will notice the many empires that have once ruled here and the many names this city has held, at the hands of various rulers. There is no other city in the world quite like it – so be sure to add Istanbul to your bucket list.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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19 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated May 3, 2023

Europe is a land frozen in time, highlighted by meticulously preserved buildings and modern amenities. Europe's best countries also feature magnificent mountain ranges, deep gorges, and verdant countryside. This is where trips go to turn into vacations you'll dream about for years.

Active travelers love Europe's extensive attractions . Tourists can ski down the French Alps , kayak in Croatia's Adriatic Sea , hike the Grindelwald in Switzerland , and cycle through the Netherlands . Then there's the food. Yum! It's hard to beat Europe's gastronomic delights.

With so many countries to choose from, it can be hard to decide which to see first. Our advice? Don't stop at just one. Europe offers a slew of fabulous cheap places to visit packed into a relatively small space, so it's easy to visit multiple countries on one trip.

Not sure where to start your sightseeing? Use our list of the best countries to visit in Europe.

The Netherlands

Switzerland, ireland and northern ireland, czech republic, map of countries to visit in europe.

It's hard to picture Italy without salivating over the thought of its food. This boot-shaped country boasts tomatoes so sweet they taste like candy, pizzas cooked to perfection, and gelato that literally melts in your mouth. Italy is a utopia for gastronomes.

Even more resplendent than its food are the impeccable architecture and cultural masterpieces found in the ancient buildings, squares, and museums peppered throughout Italy's bustling cities and small, picturesque towns.

History abounds in the attractions of Rome (we're talking about visiting the Colosseum and touring the Pantheon ), and its phenomenal town squares (i.e. Piazza Navona , St. Peter's Square , and Piazza Spagna ) are a delight to enjoy.

Florence is home to the photo-worthy landmark attraction, the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio bridge, as well as museums you won't want to miss .

The canals of Venice are romantic and unique, while the massive Il Duomo , one of the top attractions in Milan , will have you gawking, as will the impressive outfits featured in the city's many shops.

The countryside is where you'll find the most authentic Italian experience. From skiing at top resorts to hiking to swimming to eating (of course), the country's beauty envelops visitors, making it hard to leave. The attractions of Tuscany are real winners, transporting tourists back in time with the region's largely untouched walls and towers, while lovely Lake Como offers a glimpse into the lifestyles of the world's elite.

The Amalfi Coast is as pretty as a postcard , which is why its colorful towns are featured on so much tourist kitsch.

Vive la France! Known for its romance, delectable food, art, culture, and natural beauty, this lovely country offers everything you'd ever want in a vacation. France also boasts enough gorgeous places to visit to ensure that every type of traveler will find something to love.

Bask in the sun's rays and catch sight of a celebrity or two on the iconic French Riviera . Let your camera run wild photographing fields blanketed by lavender in pretty Provence .

Travel back in time to the UNESCO-listed islet, Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy. Ski down the French Alps in Chamonix , Val d'Isère , or Méribel .

Dine in a café along the Champs-Elysée , visit a museum , climb the stairs of the world famous Eiffel Tower , or stroll hand in hand with your soul mate along the River Seine in the bustling city of Paris .

One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Spain is also one of its best. From its architectural masterpieces to its towering mountain ranges, seaside cliffs, and hilltop villages, your camera will thank you for visiting this magical spot. No wonder more than 89 million tourists visited Spain in 2018, making it the second most visited country in the world.

You'll find plenty to see and do in the country's top cities. The most populated city in Spain, and its capital, Madrid is home to the lovely Crystal Palace and sprawling gardens, as well as elegant plazas.

More elegant and romantic, Seville's soundtrack consists of horses' hooves on cobblestone streets and clanging bells from church towers. Here, you'll find must-see attractions like the spectacular Catedral de Sevilla , the UNESCO World Heritage Site the Real Alcázar , and the expansive Plaza de España .

Big, beautiful, and bustling Barcelona is both energetic and eclectic, featuring architecture that would make Salvador Dali proud ( Casa Mila and the insanely unique Parc Güell are must-sees).

Valencia's top places to visit will soothe your soul with healing sea views, while Costa Brava offers some of the most stunning beaches in Spain .

Don't miss the beautiful attractions of Granada and its famous Alhambra palaces .

Austria is one of those countries that can truly take your breath away. Ringed by the magnificent Australian Alps and peppered with sparkling lakes, this wonderland is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Austria is also one of the most musical. It's almost impossible to wander through the country's many city streets without catching a snippet of song, especially one composed by famed Austrian, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Born in the attractive city of Salzburg , the former Baroque composer's influence can be felt everywhere (his image is even found on chocolate wrappers).

Wind your way through narrow, twisting laneways in the old town, Altstadt Salzburg (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), enjoy lunch in a courtyard, or visit a museum or St. Peter's Abbey while you're in town.

Vienna is another hot spot of gorgeousness. In addition to intricate palaces (i.e. Belvedere Palace ) and sprawling gardens (i.e. those found at Schönbrunn Palace ), you'll find the fabulous City Hall (Rathaus) and gorgeous Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), among other popular Vienna attractions .

The sparkling town of Linz hugs both banks of the River Danube , making it a perfect spot for exploring both the river and the surrounding countryside.

Graz , the country's second-largest city, is another architectural hub, featuring buildings and ruins that date back to 800 CE. Don't miss the picturesque old town and be sure to climb the Schlossberg (a hill measuring 473 meters and topped with a clock tower), one of the best things to do in Graz .

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Austria

A Mediterranean masterpiece, the Eastern country of Croatia offers scenery to soothe the soul and fresh food to treat the palate. With friendly locals, hilltop castles, preserved Roman ruins, and a sea the color of sapphires, it's impossible to feel stressed in this lovely archipelago.

Wander the winding laneways within the towering old city walls in the historic city of Dubrovnik , or take the cable car up Srd Hill for the most spectacular view of this beautiful town, dubbed the "Pearl of the Adriatic."

Spectacular Split is one of the most vibrant cities in Croatia and the second largest after the main tourist hub of Zagreb . Both are more than worthy of a visit. The island of Hvar will help you get your beach on; it's been deemed the "sunniest spot in Europe."

Croatia's crowning glory is its perfect position on the Adriatic Sea. Be sure to board a boat at some point to explore the archipelago, especially the charming Elafiti Islands , which can be found northwest of Dubrovnik.

Feeling adventurous? Kayaking and rafting are popular in Croatia, and you'll find plenty of rocky limestone cliffs to jump from.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Croatia

Less formally known as Holland, the Netherlands offers visitors a laid-back vacation filled with art, beauty, and a lot of cycling.

Located in the northwest of Europe, the landscape is flat (perfect terrain for a bike) and peppered with iconic windmills and fields bursting with tulips in spring (April and May in particular). The best place to spot them is arguably Keukenhof , also known as the "Garden of Europe." It's located in Lisse .

Amsterdam is one of the best cities to visit in the Netherlands . Despite its somewhat seedy reputation, this canal-laden spot is beautiful and filled with impressive museums (40, to be exact). Don't miss the city's top attractions , the Rijksmuseum , Ann Frank's House , and Van Gogh Museum .

You'll also find cutting-edge, eco-friendly architecture mixed in with the historic structures found in riveting Rotterdam , dainty Delft , and The Hague .

Big cities aren't your only option in the Netherlands. The adorable fishing hamlets located along Lake Ijsselmeer are worthy of a stop, especially Marken , Volendam , and Enkhuizen .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

Bet you've never met a cranky Swede! Known for their gracious nature, the Swedish people are a friendly Nordic bunch. Given their impeccable surroundings — ancient walled cities, sparkling lakes, sun-drenched beaches, and glacier-topped mountains — it's no wonder they're so happy.

Located in the north of Europe, between Norway and Finland , the stunning country of Sweden is the place to visit if you're looking for an amazing view of the Northern Lights. Here, you can traipse through dense forests, canoe along crystal waters, and pitch a tent in an open field.

Those who appreciate avant-garde architecture will be rewarded with some of the world's most intriguing designs in Sweden. The country's most vibrant city is Stockholm , where you'll find the popular Vasa Museum , as well as stylish shops and eateries. Don't miss a trip to Skansen , a large open-air museum depicting life in the 1720s to 1960s.

Gothenburg, Sweden's "second city," is another must-see for foodies (they've got fantastic restaurants) and beach lovers alike.

The smallest European country on this list, beautiful Belgium makes up for its diminutive size with a boatload of charm, not to mention picturesque medieval towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and chocolate that will make your taste buds scream in delight. Did we mention the French Fries yet? Delish!

The country is unofficially divided into two main regions: the French-speaking and pastoral Wallonia in the south and the more cosmopolitan, Dutch-speaking Flanders in the north.

Brussels is a big tourist draw , offering visitors a peek at its most magical historic buildings, like La Grande Place (a.k.a. Gote Markt in Dutch) and Place Royal (a.k.a. Koningsplein). This is also where you'll find eclectic shops, tasty restaurants, and fantastic museums.

Bruges is tiny yet well storied and arguably the country's most beautiful town. Its canals, which are easily accessible by booking a boat cruise, wind their way through the city, offering lovely views of the captivating architecture.

• Best Beaches in Belgium
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Bruges

One of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, Switzerland is more than worth its hefty price tags. Snowcapped mountains burst through the clouds, emerging from lush, verdant fields dotted with sheep (hello, The Matterhorn ).

Expansive lakes (i.e. Lake Geneva ) span the countryside, offering a sparkling welcome to white water rafting, canoeing, fishing, and kayaking enthusiasts. Small villages like Gimmelwald gush storybook charm, captivating even the crankiest of travelers with their quaint shops and melt-in-your-mouth chocolates.

Larger cities like beautiful Zurich , pretty Geneva , lovely Lucerne , and the captial, Bern are packed with attractions, helping visitors get their fill of both culture and beauty in one go. You'll find numerous impressive museums, art galleries, shops, and fine dining within their borders.

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Zermatt. In fact, this is tourists' one-stop shop for winter sports, as well as unbeatable Alpine hikes and climbs.

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Switzerland

Perhaps the most laid-back of all the countries on this list, Greece is the perfect place to relax, yet it's filled with enough attractions to keep even the pickiest of tourists happily entertained. Azure domes top whitewashed buildings on the country's smaller isles , their doors and gates painted with colors so bright they beg to be photographed.

The sky in Greece is the most luscious of blues, while the sapphire Mediterranean caresses beaches boasting sand and pebbles of different colors — from tan to pink to red. Sunny and always busy Santorini is particularly spectacular, especially at sunset.

Crete is another popular island with inviting coastal towns and mountain villages. Athens is where you'll find phenomenal ancient ruins (like the iconic Acropolis), as well as world-class museums, shops, and restaurants.

Speaking of restaurants, it's hard to top the food in Greece. The freshest of local ingredients are used to create healthy and tasty delicacies teeming with vibrant flavors.

Castles and beaches and mountains, oh my! Portugal has a bevy of gorgeous scenery and spectacular places to visit . Hugging more than 800 kilometers of the Atlantic Coast, this is the place to be for those who love water views.

A visit to the beautiful Azores islands will immediately dissolve your worries. They are an archipelago consisting of nine gorgeous, mountainous isles perfect for diving, surfing, sailing, and whale watching. Nearby Madeira Island is particularly popular with European tourists.

Lisbon is the country's largest city, with a prime location at the mouth of the River Tagus . It is jam-packed with fun attractions , ranging from a historic castle to a state-of-the-art aquarium to beautiful town squares to a hilltop park with an impressive view.

Tomar is also set on the water. Its enchanting cobblestone streets wind around medieval churches, a majestic castle, and other historic buildings along the banks of the Nabão River.

While the Western country of Germany may not be the most romantic European vacation destination, it is dotted with incredible places to visit. Germany's spectacular scenery (we're talking sand dune-lined beaches, thick forests, and rugged mountains) make it a worthy destination for every type of traveler. It is literally filled with stunning places to visit .

Cosmopolitan destinations like the tourist hot spot, Munich , lively city of Hamburg , and energetic Frankfurt offer travelers the historic culture they crave in the form of ancient buildings, monuments, and museums. They also burst with shops and restaurants that serve traditional sauerkraut and schnitzels mixed with more contemporary fare.

The small towns are where you'll find a nice break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These quaint villages are peppered with beautiful remnants of the past. Despite suffering through war, many ancient towers, churches, and houses stand strong, stoically adding to the charm and allure of these rural delights.

Bavaria's colorful towns , Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber , Dinkelsbühl , and Nördlingen will lift your spirits and give your camera a real workout.

It doesn't take long for the U.K'.s largest country, England to charm its visitors. Best visited with an umbrella in hand, this oft rainy isle is one of the best places to visit in Europe.

Hoping to roam through bucolic countryside, frolicking with sheep as you wander over hills and across dales? Head to the green valleys of the enchanting Lake District , a wonderland so lush and fertile, you'll want to pitch a tent and stay for days.

More of a shopper? Head to London, the iconic capital where you'll meet the most modern yet understated styles of each season. You'll also be blessed with an infinite variety of top restaurants and cuisines.

Looking for storied castles? You'll find them aplenty in towns ranging from the large, walled city of York to the smaller village of Leeds to the tiny town of Warwick , which is set upon the picturesque River Avon.

Speaking of small towns in England , that's exactly where you'll want to head if you're in search of fairy-tale villages oozing charm. The impeccable villages of the Cotswolds must be seen to be believed. Named after the honey-colored stone used to build their enchanting homes, this rich land is brimming with culture, and an impressive charm you won't find anywhere else.

Denmark may be small (it's almost double the size of Massachusetts), but boy does it pack a beautiful punch. An environment-loving, friendly country, this Nordic star offers visitors a clean, calm, and beautiful vacation destination. It is also packed with exciting attractions and fun things to do.

Water is never far away, making it easy to relax beachside on the coast of the Baltic Sea or canoe or fish in one of the sparkling lakes and rivers.

Among its 450-island archipelago, you'll find villages dotted with timber homes, perfectly groomed gardens, as well as cities boasting palaces, museums, and amusement parks (like the always-hopping city of Copenhagen , with Christiansborg Palace and Tivoli Gardens ).

The Danish architectural style is hard to beat — from luxurious fortresses like Kronborg Castle to the uber modern National Maritime Museum attraction in Helsingor to the colorful shops and restaurants of Copenhagen's Nyhaven harbor. Museums and Viking history abound in the city of Roskilde .

Worried about getting around? You're more likely to run into bike traffic than car standstills in this eco-friendly country. Cycling is the preferred mode of transportation, especially through the windmill-spotted countryside.

Insider's tip: Make time to visit the breathtaking Faroe Islands .

Iceland is a majestic land sprinkled with some of the world's most captivating scenery and unique tourist attractions . A sparsely populated island, this breathtaking spot has become one of the most coveted of bucket list vacation destinations.

Adventure-seekers visit for its eccentric topography. You can traipse across, through, or around everything from glaciers to fjords to volcanoes to ice caves to waterfalls to mountain ranges.

During the day, visitors can shop, dine, or meet the uber-friendly locals in the country's biggest city, Reykjavik . Head out on a whale-watching tour, take a dip in the Blue Lagoon , or hike through the lava fields of the Hekla volcano .

Be sure to visit Vatnajökull , the largest (and most magnificent) glacier in Europe. At night, especially between September and April, tourists are rewarded with an unbeatable view of the northern lights. While summer tends to be the best time to visit Iceland for many visitors, the country is spectacular year-round.

Little beats the beauty of the lush green fields that blanket the Emerald Isle. This breathtaking island is steeped in history; dotted with bleating sheep; and packed with people so friendly, you'll beg to be adopted.

Add the lively music, endless stunning attractions, bustling cities , and unique things to do in Ireland , and you'll never want to leave.

Mother Nature outdid herself with the spectacular sights along the Ring of Kerry , the rugged Cliffs of Moher, and otherworldly Giant's Causeway (the top tourist attraction in Northern Ireland ). Pack a camera, as you'll want to capture these majestic spectacles for posterity.

Speaking of Northern Ireland, don't miss a visit to its capital, Belfast , where you can wander along the Titanic Quarter , visit the Titanic Belfast museum , and explore the Botanic Gardens . Dublin is unmissable. The music, the culture, the food, the attractions ; there's so much to love about this lively city.

When you've had enough of big city life, it's time to explore the heart of Ireland, its quaint and charming small towns . From the medieval castle in Kilkenny to the Gallous Oratory in Dingle to the vibrant fishing port of Kinsale , there's something for everyone to enjoy. Not surprisingly, these towns are among the many reasons so many people choose to visit Ireland for a weekend getaway .

Ever wanted to spend the night in a Castle? Ireland is famous for its ancient castles, some of which have been converted into luxurious hotels.

Fjords and mountains and lakes, oh my! Norway sure knows how to enchant its visitors. With so many top attractions , it can be tough to choose where to start.

Search for the northern lights or embark on an action-packed vacay filled with hiking, skiing, or white water rafting in scenery so captivating, it will leave you breathless, No matter how you choose to spend your vacation, Norway is a delight.

Not up for that much outdoor adventure? No worries, Osloo, the country's capital , is packed with fun things to do. You can explore museums, visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park , and enjoy a meal (or many) in the best restaurants in Oslo.

Sognefjord is the largest (and arguably most stunning) of Norway's fjords. At 204 kilometers long and 6,905 meters deep, Sognefjord offers plenty of incredible tourist attractions .

Ålesund is another unmissable gem famed for its postcard-worthy setting. In addition to checking out the city's impressive Art Nouveau architecture, walking around the harbor, and visiting the Town Park, there are a slew of interesting things to do in Ålesund .

For those with time to spare, be sure to book a night or two to properly enjoy the attractions of Tromosø . There are plenty of ways to stay entertained in Trondheim as well, and you won't regret checking out the fun things to do in Bergen .

When most people think of Turkey, they picture the Hagia Sophia Mosque or Grand Bazaar in Istanbul and salivate over the thought of Turkish food. This storied country is known for its unique and exciting tourist attractions .

Turkey is also home to top cities like Antalya (famed for its Dunden Waterfall ), beautiful Bursa (site of the remarkable Grand Mosque ), and spell-binding Sanliurfa , where you'll find the lovely Pool of Abraham .

While Istanbul is packed with things to see and do that include the aforementioned mosque and a glittering palace and Hippodrome , it is also home to beautiful parks .

Those hoping to lounge beachside, soaking up stunning views of the Mediterranean, will be pleased with the variety of picturesque islands in Turkey . Bozcaada is laid-back yet luxurious, framed by soft sandy beaches, while Gӧkçeada is a quiet wonderland best visited during the buzzing summer months.

There are numerous plush beach resorts to enjoy, making this an ideal place to spend at least a weekend away. Heading to Turkey in winter ? Great idea. There are plenty of fun (and cheap) things to do at this off-peak time.

One of the cheapest European countries to visit , the tiny Czech Republic is filled with intricate historic monuments, lively music, and tasty food. It's also one of the most beautiful countries in Europe and boasts fun things to do in every season, including winter .

It's easy to see why Prague tops the list of the best places to visit in the Czech Republic . The heart of this picturesque region, this pretty and vibrant city is a must see. Prague is filled with impressive tourist attractions , like Prague Castle , Charles Bridge , and Wenceslas Square , not to mention budget-friendly shops and restaurants. In fact, many of Prague's don't-miss sites are among the best tourist attractions in the Czech Republic .

Prague isn't the only city worth visiting in the Czech Republic; hot spots like Český Krumlov in the south (its castle is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Monument) and Kutna Hora (home to the Baroque chapel, Sedlec Ossuary ) are spectacular. They definitely warrant scheduling a day trip or two .

Head to Karlovy Vary, or Carlsbad as it's also known, for a rejuvenating dip in a thermal spa . Don't miss the 19 th -century Market Colonnade , Museum of Glass MOSER , and Church of St. Mary Magdalene , a few of the other popular tourist attractions in Karlovy Vary .

Not sure where to stay? Prague boasts fantastic deals on numerous hotels and resorts in all sections of the city.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

See Europe on a Budget : Let's face it, travel ain't cheap! Luckily, there are ways to see the world without emptying your pocketbook. Visit these inexpensive places in Europe (we're talking about awesome spots like Prague and Valencia ) or head to these beautiful yet affordable European countries (hello, Bulgaria and Romania ).

Other Unmissable European Destinations : Europe has so much to offer visitors, and our list of the best countries to visit in Europe merely highlights some of its top spots. From charming towns that look as if they've come straight out of a fairy tale to a historic sea fortress in Finland to Italy's best beaches , you'll never want to go home.

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Places to visit in europe

30 Best places to visit in Europe

Wondering where to go on your next trip? Europe has so many cities it may look harsh to decide where to go. Here is a list of 30 wonderful places from Europe to go visit at least once in a lifetime:

1. Paris (France)

Paris , City of Lights, capital of France , has its charms, especially nearby the river La Seine at night where it is possible to admire the Eiffel Tower with dazzling light. During the day, sipping a café au lait at a Parisian café with a delectable buttery croissant and watching the city buzzing around is still in vogue. Later on, a visit to the Louvre Museum may take a good few hours to explore the galleries. If in need to wander in the streets, head to the districts of Le Marais or even Montmartre to grasp some romantic view… And at night, discovering the cabaret Moulin Rouge will bring you back into another era. What a nice way to time travel!

2. London (Great Britain)

Modern, cosmopolitan, London is one of the major capitals in the world. The underground can take you barely to any parts of the city. There are many urban parks where it is possible to take a stroll and picnic on sunny days. There are several sandwich shops around to find a quick lunch. Along the river Thames discover Big Ben, Westminster, the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, to name a few. To get an icon picture, go in the middle of Piccadilly Circus and watch the red double-decker buses zooming around. If you are in need of a snack, why not try a proper Tea time at The Dorchester, or some other fancy hotel.

3. Madrid (Spain)

Madrid is the place to be to enjoy downtime. Relaxed and alive, it is known to be as lively at night and day. The Reina Sofia and Prado Museums are quite remarkable to find out more about Spanish artists. Besides, there is the Plaza de Cibeles, an emblem of the country. If in search of a haven, get to the El Retiro park, an immense park where families and friends go by on weekends. The Crystal Palace is worth the detour. A good spot to end the day and watch the breathtaking sunset is at Templo de Debod. Then find some bar and eat tapas before hitting the nightclubs situated in downtown, where there is always a good atmosphere.

4. Seville (Spain)

Seville has a southern vibe, definitely hot in summer, where you feel the blend of Spanish and Arabic cultures. Very festive, you can enjoy a good red wine while attending a show of flamenco music and dance that will bring you in faraway place. Being quite rhythmic and playing an important role in Andalusia, Seville is a very famous city for tourists. You can feel this city has a prestigious past which still permeates the streets. The Giralda tower beside the cathedral is a sign of its history; once a minaret tower, now part of the cathedral, its construction is worth the ascent without mentioning the view from up there.

5. Collioure (France)

Peaceful and quiet, Collioure is a small town and is full of French charm. It is a paradisiac halt while being on the road. Take a stroll along the port and enjoy the Mediterranean sea. If you are an artist, you may want to walk in the alleys and take out your pencil and sketchpad, or even your painting supplies. No wonder fauvist artists were seduced in the twentieth century… You can also find one of the last fort royal castle from Medieval ages where visits are still taking place.

6. Córdoba (Spain)

Córdoba is a jewel where the Christian and Arabic worlds met and collided into one magnificent building: the Mosque-Cathedral. Once the principal centre in Medieval times for culture and economy, we can admire the beauty of the building with awe. Romans also came and shaped the city in a prior time. Behind the Mosque-Cathedral, you can still find the Roman bridge. If you want to find some warmth, it is definitely the place to be.

7. Budapest (Hungary)

Budapest is not so well known, yet it earns to be discovered. It is the fusion of two cities separated apart by the Danube river. Even in winter, this city is worth the trip. There are several thermal baths, making it a good spa resort. What a nice way to relax comfortably outdoor even when the temperature is low. There is also a good jazz spot for live concerts, the Budapest Jazz Club. Meanwhile, you can sip some liquorish white wines as sweet as dessert. Cheers!

8. Berlin (Germany)

In Berlin , you may find many people wearing kakis, yet the city has a lively gypsy vibe. Although it is a big capital, it feels very laid-back. Graffitis are part of the sub-culture and can be found in several areas and not only on the remnants of the Wall. At the Brandenburg Gate, many concerts take place. And it is where you find one of the most important countdown to celebrate the coming New Year. Besides, you find the Reichstag, where going on the roof top is worth for sightseeing. Also, beer is a very popular drink. Many local brews can be drank in beer gardens. There are plenty of museums of all kinds to suit your tastes if the weather gets gloomy. In Berlin, there is always something to look forward to.

9. Cologne (Germany)

Right beside the Rhine river, Cologne has been rebuilt after World War II. Though its cathedral remained mostly intact, the roof has needed some repairs. It is one of the biggest city in West Germany. Nonetheless, Cologne has 12 great Roman basilicas dating back to the first century AD. It is also where Eau de Cologne was created. By the way, it even has its own museum: the Farina Fragrance Museum.

10. Florence ( Italy )

Florence is jewelry city from the birth of Renaissance. Its duomo gets to be the center of all the attention. La dolce vita is still alive. Tourists come by day and locals walk by during the evening. At the Arno river, cross the Ponte Vecchio and go see the vista from the other side. Up there, you can admire the colour from the red tiles of the roofs and the duomo in the middle of all.

11. Venice (Italy)

It may look like it is cliché, with its gondolas floating around the canals, yet Venice has quite a romantic atmosphere. No wonder why so many newly weds come for their honeymoon . It is surprising how a city can stay afloat, surrounded by blue-green water. It surpasses the logical idea we could hold unto. Due to large crowds of tourists, it may be easier to visit the place off-season.

Also read: Best places to visit in Italy .

12. Dubrovnik (Croatia)

Small city surrounded by walls, Dubrovnik is now a famous resort. With white polished slabs to walk unto, it feels good to rest and eat outdoor within the Pearl of the Adriatic. It has also been the stage for the TV show Game of Thrones . Definitely worth the trip for a day or two.

13. Rome (Italy)

Rome is very rich in architecture, and there are many churches and archeological sites to visit. History has definitely taken some monumental space here! If you are a fan of past Roman civilization, better take a tour to the ruins and Coliseum. Moreover, many couples want to be photographed by the Trevi Fountain. On a hot sunny day, stop by to eat gelato and enjoy the shade of the buildings. In addition, the Spanish Steps is worth to wander by.

14. Barcelona (Spain)

Barcelona is a very popular cosmopolitan city in the Catalan province where the youth want to live. It is the city where the cathedral is undergoing construction for many decades now. Gaudi’s works are quite impressive. A visit to the Güell park will convince you. Here, do not forget that football is a religion. Tickets are hard to get. After all, FC Barcelona is one of the most famous clubs in the world.

15. Bordeaux (France)

Known for its wine and gastronomy (foie gras, white asparagus, oysters, canalés, etc.), Bordeaux is one of the best cities to see people wandering by and being very well dressed. By renting a car, you can go to Saint-Emilion vineyards, and discover some of the finest grand cru. The best time for doing so is in autumn.

16. Brussels (Belgium)

If you want to make a trip for your taste buds, Brussels has some goodies for you. It is known for its fine chocolates filled with ganache. Otherwise, eating fries and mussels with a pint of beer is a must. Brussels has an international vibe with different migrant ethnies. After-all, the European Union Parlement is located here. Moreover, check out the Comics Art Museum, one of Brussels’ main attractions.

17. Prague (Czech Republic)

Heart of Europe, the city of a hundred spires, cafés, a collection of architecture. Prague ’s historical centre is classified within UNESCO, where most of the 4000 monuments were miraculously untouched during World War II. The astronomical clock is one major attraction. Art is living within its city. Feeling thirsty? Drink some local beer, and blend in with the locals.

18. Bologna (Italy)

Bologna is a dynamic city, where you find painted walls in shades of orange and red, and many arches to walk underneath. Only a few family towers still remain in the sky, marks from its past rivalries. The first university founded in Europe is situated in this city, which you can visit. You can eat within a bookstore very good fresh pasta and taste local brews. Otherwise, taste some Lambrusco, a sparkling wine that goes down damn well with bolognese spaghetti. Yummy!

19. Valencia (Spain)

Valencia is a city with large boulevards and lovely architecture buildings with a variety of styles. A bombarded remnant of the medieval wall surrounding the city can be seen at Torres de Quart. Its climate is comfortable all year long. No need for big coats here. The central market is worth to visit, since it is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. If you want to eat the true Spanish paella dish, Valence is the place to find the best ones. Enjoy the different flavours!

20. Salamanca (Spain)

Its Plaza Mayor is truly the heart of the city. Very known by the locals to be their meeting point under the clock. Stop by Valor’s café to eat decadent churros con chocolate. Down the street, you get by the University of Salamanca . It is quite odd to find two cathedrals in one city, one beside the other. There is the old and the new one with different architecture periods. When the University of Salamanca was created, it took place within the old cathedral. This is probably one of the best cities to be a student with many bars to go at night.

21. Lisbon (Portugal)

Whether you simply want to explore the streets by tram or listen to some fado, Lisbon is an easy city to be. It will be hard to miss a good meal of fish and pastries. Access to the beach is also possible for a dip in the ocean. Don’t forget to take a look to azulejos, well painted ceramic tiles and maybe find some to bring back home.

22. Dublin (Ireland)

If you want to live an authentic pub experience, go to the Temple Bar area. Notice: you could be pub crawling. Apart from touristic classic sites, Dublin has several trek paths just outside the city where you can enjoy the view of the landscape and cliffs. If you love green nature, you are served.

23. Ravenna (Italy)

Situated in the Emilia-Romagna region, Ravenna is a small town where it is possible to see wonders made with mosaics. It is THE capital of mosaics, rich with a Christian, Byzantine and Roman background that brought up spirituality centuries ago, and also part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Definitely a good one day trip if you are travelling in the region!

24. Bilbao (Spain)

Shockingly better than what you could think of for a small city in the Basque country. Well known for its Guggenheim museum, Bilbao in itself is worth a detour to check its lovely architecture in red and green paintings. Don’t forget to taste some pintxos, small snacks typically found and eaten in bars.

25. Aachen (Germany)

Less frequented, Aachen is a small town in the Westphalia region, where it is historically the crossroads of three countries: Germany, Belgium, Netherlands. Once the coronation place of a long line of kings, the cathedral is the very first monument of Germany to be included in the UNESCO as a conglomeration of different architectural periods. Aachen is known for its healing baths and richness in history. This town can be visited by foot easily within a day or two.

26. Praiano, Italy

Located next to the more well-know Amalfi Coast destination of Positano, Praiano is a more rustic, and quaint, Italian seaside town that is still, as much as anything can be on the Amalfi Coast can be, under the radar. One thing putting Praiano on the map is the ultra modern hotel Casa Angelina, which has received a “Most Romantic Retreat” award from the Small Luxury Hotels group. The dramatic cliffs, the chic pool club, and floor to ceiling windows make this an ideal destination for honeymooners who are seeking the glamour of the Amalfi Coast but a bit removed from the crowds in a totally contemporary hotel.

27. Santorini, Greece

Santorini has long been an iconic honeymoon destination–and one of the best places to visit in Europe. The amazing light, the sea, and the food all coalesce to create an undeniably magical atmosphere. The Auberge’s boutique Grace Hotel in Santorini is located on the Imerovigli hillside in northwest Santorini. For those really looking to splurge and indulge (and if not on your honeymoon, when?), the property has a villa that comes with, among other amenities, its own hammam steam bath, indoor plunge pool, and fire pit.

28. Mallorca, Spain

A short flight from Madrid, Mallorca is a larger island known for its rippling hills, olive and lemon trees,locally grown and sourced food, and, of course, the Mediterranean Sea. Finca Serena is 20 minutes away from Palma, the main town, and is set on a sprawling estate with breathtaking vistas and an over 2,500 square foot spa. Ideal honeymoon activities include lazying around the pool that has far reaching of the Mallorca countryside or a morning yoga class.

29. Porto, Portugal

Porto is the city that gave Portugal its name (Portucale) and the famous wine. But the city is not limited to that! Come and visit Porto and discover the city that was elected in 2012, 2014 and 2017 as the best European tourist destination. When you visit Porto know that you will discover a city with a unique charm where the old combines perfectly with the contemporary, a cosmopolitan and intimate city at the same time. Porto is a source of inspiration, where those who visit it always end up wanting to return!

30. Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve . Known for the sun that shines throughout the year, paradisiacal beaches, pools and diving, bars and lively nights. The beaches, of excellent quality, and the sea with varying shades of blue invite you to an unforgettable holiday. But there is also mountains and culture, where people live in harmony with nature and maintain the same old traditions.

There are many great choices in Algarve and you just can’t go wrong. If you never been in southern Portugal, you’re in for a treat!

After covering at a glance several cities, which one will become your next choice of places to visit in old Europe? Wherever you go, I wish you a safe trip!