Where to Next? Discover Europe Off-The-Beaten-Path With Less Crowded Gems to Explore
Europe Off-the-Beaten-Path: Underrated Cities That Deserve a Spot on Your Must-Visit List
When travelers dream of Europe, they instantly conjure up mental images of the magnificent canals of Venice, the sparkling Eiffel Tower in Paris, or the bustling streets of Barcelona. But what if we told you that some of Europe’s most delightful, authentic, and affordable experiences lie long past the traditional traveler trail? “Europe off the beaten path: underrated cities that belong on your bucket list” is not just a clever title, it is an invitation to discover the continent again from a different viewpoint. From undiscovered locations in the Balkans to brightly-colored villages in the Baltic, your guide will take you on a unique journey to destinations where local culture is vibrant, tourism is low, and the memories you create will be genuine—not tourist stacked.
This guide will appeal to new and experienced travelers alike. If you are an experienced traveler looking for new terrain, or you are planning your first trip to Europe and want to avoid overly-touristy locations, you will find adventure, natural beauty, and culture along the way! So grab your backpack and your wanderlust—let’s explore the underrated cities that belong on your bucket list!
Ljubljana, Slovenia – Europe’s Storybook Capital
Nestled between Italy, Austria, and Croatia, Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a Greek god, a fairytale come to life. It’s small, walkable, and oozes charm—think cobbled streets, riverside cafés, an old castle on a hilltop. It still, however, remains a secret to many.
Reasons to visit Ljubljana? To start, the city is green—both literally and figuratively. In 2016, Ljubljana was named Europe’s Green Capital and its car-free centre, as well as its flourishing public parks contribute to that title. The bustling Central Market, unique Dragon Bridge, and eclectic Metelkova district all have something for everyone. Plus, it’s a good jumping-off point for Slovenia’s remarkable nature—Lake Bled and Triglav National Park are just a short drive away.
- Travel tip: Rent a bike and pedal alongside the Ljubljanica River for the best mix of scenery and local living.
Timișoara, Romania – The Little Vienna of Eastern Europe
Timișoara in western Romania will blow you away if you’re into colorful architecture, baroque charm, and a bohemian vibe. Timișoara has been called “Little Vienna” for its pretty buildings and cultural life, and is likely to be the next favorite for culturally curious travelers.
What to expect? Timișoara was named a 2023 European Capital of Culture, which makes sense when you see Timișoara’s thriving café culture, variety of art galleries, and historical importance (it was the birthplace of the revolution that toppled communism in Romania!).
- Travel Tip: visit in the spring or early autumn to experience the many festivals and music performances around town in the squares!
Ghent, Belgium – Belgium’s Best-Kept Secret
While Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp tend to get a lot of attention, Ghent is a hidden gem. A university town with a medieval past, Ghent is a delightful mix of both old world charm and contemporary youthful creative energy.
So why should you visit? Ghent has amazing medieval architecture alongside modern street art, kitschy boutiques, and a food scene that could rival any big city. Be sure to stop by Gravensteen Castle and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, which is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece.
- Travel tip: For the best views of the city, take a sunset boat tour through the canals – Ghent is less crowded than Bruges, but just as magical.
Riga, Latvia – Art Nouveau Capital of the World
When considering Europe off the beaten path: underrated cities that should be on your list to visit, Riga often doesn’t get attention. Yet, the capital of Latvia has one of the most beautiful collections of Art Nouveau period architecture on the whole planet, not to mention an incredibly vibrant cultural scene.
Why go? Czech out the way that Riga combines Baltic coolness and history. The Old Town is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Central Market is one of the biggest in Europe, and is heaven for food lovers! On top of that Riga has loads of Festivals and very lively coffee and craft beer scenes on the rise.
- Travel tip: For a taste of the real character of Riga away from the tourist crowds, take a walk around the quieter neighborhoods of Miera Iela or Āgenskalns.
Gijón, Spain – Coastal Bliss with Cantabrian Soul
While Spain is famous for its coastlines, northern shores generally escape attention. Enter Gijón, an Atlantic seaside town in Asturias that showcases rugged beauty, fresh seafood, and Spanish culture, void of the crowds found in either Barcelona or Madrid.
Why go to Gijón? Gijón uniquely mixes maritime history with the modern. Walk along San Lorenzo beach promenade, sip cider in a traditional sidrerías, or hike the coastal trails of neighboring locations. Furthermore, the Picos de Europa mountains are a mere hour away providing excellent day trips.
- Travel tip: Be sure not to miss the Roman Baths and charming Cimavilla neighborhood for a look into Gijón’s complicated history.
Pécs, Hungary – Art, Wine, and Ottoman Echoes
Pécs, a city located in southern Hungary, is a delightful surprise – think Roman ruins, early Christian burial sites, and an Ottoman mosque-turned-church chock full of every period imaginable.
So why visit? Pécs is a place with an arts ambiance and a place named as a European Capital of Culture. From its heritage of Zsolnay porcelain, to its student infested hustle and bustle combined with a proximity to wine country, or its richness in culture and wine connections; you can’t be disappointed.
- Travel tip: the Villány wine region, which is nearby, is worth taking a leap off the highway to sample and purchase some of Hungary’s best red wines in their rustic and quaint cellars.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina – Beauty Beyond the Bridge
Mostar is known primarily for the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge); it is not just a beautiful postcard, but a resilient city with a vibrant culture and stunning natural surroundings. What’s worth visiting? Beyond the bridge, it is an incredibly welcoming community, with local artisans producing hand-painted ceramics, and the wonderful flavors of Balkan cuisine.
If visiting in the shoulder season, you will miss the crowds of summer tour buses and be able to embrace the natural scenery of the Neretva River and the accessible Kravice Waterfalls.
- Travel tip: Stay overnight so you can experience Master’s magic in the late afternoon/early evening after the day-trippers leave, and for spectacular golden-hour views from the bridge.
Matera, Italy – From Cave Dwellings to Cultural Wonder
There is no deficit of enticing cities in Italy, but Matera in southern Basilicata really feels like it has transported you to another world. The city, known for its ancient cave dwellings (the Sassi di Matera), is configurable as a city in Europe like no other. UNESCO-ratified Matera and its UNESCO itself is best observed in-person when thinking about a visit.
What is the appeal? Matera has emerged from deep poverty to a cultural jewel box. The atmospheric dwellings carved into solid rock, coupled extremely dramatic views over raved mines and quarry and the sense of possessing walked through a movie set (it is the site of many movies including James Bond films) offers perhaps a haunting experience that is exquisitely beautiful.
- Travel tip: Organize a room and evening stay at a “sassi” cave hotel in advance! It is a great experience that brings glamour and comfort into historical surroundings.
Why These Cities Belong on Your List?
This is Europe away from the crowds – underrated cities that should be on your radar for more than simply being alternatives to the favorite tourist traps. These destinations offer a more enriching and immersive travel experience that means you can have the fun of exploring in a crowd-less environment, supporting a smaller community, and uncovering some of the treasures that most travelers miss.
Not to mention, there will usually be a substantial difference in price, access to more personalized experiences, and opportunities for local culture. It’s the best of both worlds for experiences for those who like to travel slowly, are willing to adventure, are history buffs, or just want to swap out the expected for the unexpected.
Final Thoughts: Make Room for the Unexpected
There’s something wonderful about finding something away from guidebooks and Instagram influencers. Europe off the beaten path: underrated cities that need a place on your list shows us there’s a world beyond the obvious, and one that offers culture, charm, and connection. When you plan your next Euro-trip and choose where to visit next, think about changing the popular norms and exploring the extraordinary beauty of these lesser-known cities.
In the end, it is often those “off the beaten path” trips that have the bigger impact! So escape the script, pursue your curiosity, and let Europe’s hidden cities redefine the way you travel.
