Europe is home to several of the world’s most iconic destinations, from Paris to Rome, London to Barcelona. But many underrated European destinations offer unique cultural experiences, stunning natural beauty, and historic charm. If you want to explore Europe’s hidden gems, this guide is for you. Here are our top choices for the most underrated destinations in Europe.
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Mostar, Bosnia, and Herzegovina
Mostar is a picturesque city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its historic bridge, traditional Ottoman architecture, and stunning natural surroundings. Despite its beauty and rich history, Mostar remains mainly off the beaten path for many tourists. Take the chance to explore the old town, visit the iconic Stari Most bridge, and try some of the local specialties like cevapi (grilled meat) and burek (savory pastry).
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is the charming capital city of Slovenia, located in the heart of Europe. Despite its central location, Ljubljana remains an underrated destination travelers often overlook. The city is popular for its historic castle, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Take the chance to explore the Ljubljana Old Town, visit the National Gallery, and take a boat ride on the Ljubljanica River.
Porto, Portugal
Porto is a colorful northern Portugal city famous for its historic port wine cellars, scenic riverfront, and stunning architecture. Despite its many attractions, Porto is often overshadowed by Lisbon as a tourist destination. Take the chance to visit the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, explore the Ribeira neighborhood, and try some of the local port wine.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is a scenic coastal town in Montenegro, known for its medieval old town, stunning scenery, and rich history. Despite its beauty and cultural significance, Kotor remains relatively unknown to many travelers. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the Kotor Fortress, explore the old town, and enjoy the amazing views of the Bay of Kotor.
Riga, Latvia
Riga is the capital city of Latvia, located on the Baltic Sea and popular for its picturesque architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. Despite its many attractions, Riga remains an underrated destination that travelers often overlook. Don’t miss the chance to visit the historic Old Town, explore the Art Nouveau district, and try some local Latvian cuisine.
Ghent, Belgium
Ghent is a historical city in the Flemish region of Belgium, known for its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious cuisine. Despite its many attractions, Brussels and Bruges often overshadow Ghent as a tourist destination. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Gravensteen Castle, explore the historic city center, and try some local Belgian beers.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv is a charming city in southern Bulgaria, known for its historic Old Town, ancient Roman ruins, and vibrant cultural scene. Despite its many attractions, Plovdiv remains among the underrated destinations in Europe often overlooked by travelers. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Roman Theater, explore the Old Town, and try local Bulgarian cuisine.
Tartu, Estonia
Tartu is a historic university town in southern Estonia, known for its charming Old Town, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful parks. Despite its many attractions, Tartu remains one of the underrated destinations in Europe often overlooked by travelers. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Tartu University Museum, explore Toome Hill Park, and try some local Estonian cuisines.
Matera, Italy
Matera is a historic city in southern Italy, known for its stunning cave dwellings, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Despite its beauty and significance, Matera remains relatively unknown to many travelers. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Sassi di Matera, visit the Palombaro Lungo, and try some local Lucanian cuisine.
Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk is a historic port city in northern Poland, known for its charming Old Town, beautiful architecture, and rich maritime history. Despite its many attractions, Gdansk is often overlooked by travelers who favor Krakow and Warsaw. Take the chance to visit the Long Market, explore the historic city center, and try some of the local Polish cuisines.
San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian is a beautiful coastal city in northern Spain, known for its stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. Despite its many attractions, San Sebastian remains relatively unknown to many travelers. Don’t miss the chance to visit La Concha Beach, explore the Old Town, and try some local Basque cuisine.
Nicosia, Cyprus
Nicosia is the capital city of Cyprus, located on the beautiful island of Cyprus and popular for its historic Old Town, amazing architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Despite its many attractions, Nicosia remains one of the underrated destinations in Europe often overlooked by travelers. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cyprus Museum, explore the historic city center, and try some local Cypriot cuisine.
Lviv, Ukraine
Lviv is a historic city in western Ukraine, popular for its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and rich cultural heritage. Despite its beauty and significance, Lviv remains relatively unknown to many travelers. Don’t miss the chance to explore Rynok Square, visit the Lviv Opera House, and try some local Ukrainian cuisine.
Sintra, Portugal
Sintra is a picturesque town located just outside Lisbon, known for its stunning castles, beautiful gardens, and scenic natural surroundings. Despite its many attractions, Sintra remains an underrated destination often overlooked by travelers. Take the chance to visit the Pena Palace, explore the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, and try some of the local Portuguese cuisines.
Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina
Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Despite its many attractions, Sarajevo remains an underrated destination often overlooked by travelers. Don’t miss the chance to visit the historic Baščaršija, explore the Latin Bridge, and try some local Bosnian cuisine.
Conclusion
Europe is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. From picturesque coastal towns to historic cities, these underrated destinations offer unique cultural experiences, stunning natural beauty, and historic charm that tourists often overlook. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, add these underrated destinations in Europe to your itinerary for an unforgettable European adventure.