Best Hidden Gems To Visit In Europe 2024

Welcome to Europe’s hidden beauties! These hidden gems are full of charm, culture, and character. They offer authentic and immersive travel, rich history, and unique local culture. These venues let you escape the masses and experience local life.

Europe draws travelers. Colorful cities and towns pique our curiosity and inspire exploration. Europe’s diverse landscapes and old architecture satisfy history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. If you adore gastronomy, you may easily explore Europe’s hidden gems and sophisticated towns.

You’ll never get weary of the countless dining options in these unique European destinations because local products and specialties vary by village. Cheap airfare and social media buzz appear to have trampled every square meter of this lovely continent. Are there any hidden jewels in Europe?

Here are the 21 best hidden gems in Europe for escaping the throng in 2024.

1. Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain

Setenil de las Bodegas is a small village in southern Spain carved into the cliffs. This means that the people here are practically living beneath a rock. The town’s houses are completely whitewashed, standing out against the black rocks above.

What to see and do

• Apart from its magnificent cliffside location, Setenil de las Bodegas has two notable attractions. The Church of La Encarnación and Nazari Castle are intriguing. Each are unique and underline the town’s status as one of Europe’s greatest underestimated destinations.
• On top of the hill is 13th-century Arab fortification Nazari Castle. This medieval castle was one of the final Moorish strongholds when the Christians retook the Iberian Peninsula in the late 1400s.
• The latest siege destroyed all but one of the castle’s towers. However, the breathtaking views of the town below are worth a little visit.
• La Encarnación Church isn’t Spain’s most opulent, but it’s special. It was erected in the early 1500s in late Gothic style. La Encarnación Church is basic and quiet, reminiscent of Spanish village life.

Where is it?

• Setenil de las Bodegas, between Sevilla and Granada, is one of Spain’s most unusual and Andalusia’s best-kept secrets. How this town has remained unnoticed for so long is amazing. Setenil de las Bodegas, 11 miles (18 km) north of Ronda, is another off-the-beaten-path site worth seeing. If you’re driving through Spain, include Setenil de las Bodegas!

2. The Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve, located in southern Portugal, is one of Europe’s most unique travel destinations. While the French, Italian, and Spanish Rivieras receive the most attention, Portugal’s slice of paradise in the Algarve can compete with all of them.

What makes the Algarve one of the best places in Europe to visit

• This Atlantic coast region has rough landscapes and windswept beaches you won’t find elsewhere. Stay in whitewashed villages and towns between sandy coves and beaches without breaking the bank.
• The Algarve is cheaper and less famous than the Mediterranean. However, the location is less developed for tourists, so don’t expect beach resorts, bars, and restaurants everywhere.
• Explore the region’s towering cliffs and spectacular rock formations. Enjoy the sun while strolling through historic fishing communities and boundless beaches. It’s no wonder this is a top European destination!

Where is it?

• The Algarve lies 155 miles (250 kilometers) south of Lisbon. Lagos, Faro, Tavira, and Albufeira are among the towns and cities worth visiting.
• If you’re looking for a hidden gem with raw beauty in one of Europe’s most exciting destinations, the Algarve should be on your bucket list!

3. Perast, Montenegro

Looking to add to your European bucket list? Check it out. Just north of Kotor, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, is the little beach village of Perast.

It’s inexpensive, charming, and appears to have remained unchanged. As a result, it is among the top European hidden gems to visit in 2024.

Between the 15th and 18th centuries, Perast served as an important port for the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. With a population of 274 people and only one major street, it’s difficult to believe that this small village was once at the crossroads of three vast empires.

What to see and do

• Perast has recently drawn travelers with its collection of churches, royal residences, and neighboring islets.
• Perast most likely has the highest number of churches per population in the world, with 16 overall. The most spectacular of them is St. Nikola Church, a Baroque masterpiece from the 17th century.
• The town is also encircled by magnificent mountains that overlook the bay below. With so much landscape and charm, it’s no surprise that Perast is one of Europe’s most underappreciated tourist destinations.

Where is it?

• Perast is only 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) north of Kotor and less than 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Dubrovnik, Croatia. Perast is also located 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, making it a popular day trip destination.
• Needless to say, there is a lot to see in this part of Europe. So grab your stuff and go going! Perast, with its beautiful architecture and interesting history, is one of Europe’s top hidden jewels to visit in 2024.

4. Tethe National Park, Albania

If you’re seeking for one of Europe’s most unusual destinations, add Theth National Park to your bucket list! This underestimated vacation destination is located in the heart of Albania and is a veritable paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

What makes Theth National Park so unique? For starters, it boasts some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever see. The park is located in the Albanian Alps and features towering peaks, crystal clear rivers, and dense woods.

The National Park also supports a broad range of biodiversity, including rare bird and animal species found nowhere else in the world.

What makes Theth a unique place to visit in Europe

• Theth National Park’s cultural heritage is its true highlight. Several generations-old Albanian settlements are in the park. These communities allow you to experience Albanian culture and traditions by interacting with locals.
• Why visit Theth National Park? If you like nature and culture, this is the place for you. You may escape the masses and experience something authentic and immersive here.
• This undervalued European resort lets you enjoy all of this without the crowds and tourist traps of more popular destinations.

5. Brisighella, Italy

Brisighella is a medieval fairytale town located south of Bologna. It’s stunningly gorgeous and appealing, yet it manages to maintain a low profile. You’ve probably never heard of it, but it deserves to be one of Europe’s best hidden jewels.

What to see and do

• Brisighella is a secret place with a rich history and authentic culture. It is nestled between three magnificent hills, each with its own castle (La Rocca), clock tower (La Torre), and church (Il Monticino). These structures date from the 14th, 16th, and 18th centuries, respectively.
• Summer hiking is common here. You may walk from the village to each of the above places to see stunning views of the village and countryside below.
• Walk aimlessly through Brisighella’s charming and colorful streets and never get bored. However, its restaurants and cafés offer world-class wines, olive oils, and gelato if you tire. Brisighella is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets due to its beauty.

Where is it?

• Brisighella is only an hour away by train or automobile from Emilia-Romagna’s city, Bologna. It is also slightly over two hours from Venice and an hour and twenty minutes from Florence by car.
• Brisighella, with its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, is one of Europe’s top hidden secrets to visit in 2024.

6. Mittenwald, Germany

Mittenwald is a peaceful town that seems like something out of a Grimm story. It may surprise you that Mittenwald has remained one of Europe’s best hidden jewels and underappreciated destinations, especially given its proximity to Germany’s thriving automobile sector.

What to see and do

• Mittenwald is a genuine German town everyone should visit. Starting with its bright architecture, it radiates vitality. Although they look new, many of the town’s homes and shops are over 250 years old.
• When visiting Mittenwald, allow time to explore the Altstadt, or Old Town. The Obermarkt (main street) has ageless traditions, as do other streets. The town’s pedestrian-friendly streets have colorful homes, businesses, and murals. The view is lovely.
• Mittenwald’s violin-making heritage is intriguing. Thus, it is called the “Village of a Thousand Violins”. Mittenwald is intriguing and rhythmic, thus the name fits.
• The magnificent Karwendel Alps surround the town, adding to its attraction. This makes Mittenwald a popular winter and summer skiing and hiking destination.

Mittenwald is truly a Europe hidden gem come true!

• Without the large hordes of travelers that typically accompany Europe’s attractive villages, the loudest noise you’ll likely hear on any given day is the quiet stream that runs through the town center. Otherwise, you’ll likely hear a violin.
• Mittenwald’s serene and timeless ambiance distinguishes it as one of Europe’s best unknown and underestimated destinations.

Where is it?

• Mittenwald, located along the Germany-Austria border, is only two hours by train from Munich and forty minutes from Innsbruck, Austria. Despite its proximity to all of these major destinations, it remains one of the greatest European hidden treasures to visit in 2024.
• If you want to combine this vacation with a visit to one of Europe’s finest castles, Neuschwanstein Castle is only an hour away.

7. Varna, Bulgaria

Varna is more of a European metropolis than a town, unlike the preceding two hidden treasures. It has remained out of the spotlight so far. Varna is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets and underestimated cities.

Varna is a beach resort with a vibrant culture. Locals call it the Jewel of the Black Sea, although most outside Bulgaria have never heard of it. Kristin, a teacher and writer who has traveled across Europe, recently visited Varna.

What to see and do in this European hidden gem?

• Besides its beach attractiveness, Varna has many historical and cultural attractions. The city center has several quirky restaurants, cafés, and pubs, as well as a vast Roman bath complex and archaeological museum. Varna, Bulgaria’s coastal and cultural center, has a vibrant nightlife.
• Varna’s metropolitan vibe belies its low prices. This makes up for the inevitable premium to get there! Varna is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets due to its vibrant culture and beach life.

Where is it?

• Varna isn’t easy to get to, but that’s why it’s one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Bulgaria’s eastern Black Sea city of Varna is 275 miles (442 kilometers) from Sofia. It takes 5 hours to drive or 2 hours to fly from Bulgaria’s capital.
• Another option is Varna, 165 miles (266 km) southeast of Bucharest. This is the cheapest and easiest way to reach Varna. Travelers should include Transylvania, a historic and hilly region, on their “hit” list.
• Varna is ideal for weekend getaways. Though many Bulgarian tourists visit in summer, it’s still quieter than neighboring seaside cities.

8. San Marino

Want to discover cobblestone streets and classic Europe? Focus on San Marino. Italian states were politically fractured before the 19th century.

The boot-shaped continent hadn’t been united since Roman times. Giuseppe Garibaldi and other revolutionaries tried to unite these kingdoms under Italy in the 1800s. Only a few nations avoided merger after the dust settled. San Marino was.

Recently, San Marino has avoided the massive tourism that plagues much of Italy. Why you should visit San Marino, one of Europe’s hidden jewels.

What to see and do

• San Marino is a mountaintop micro-state with stunning views of Italy. From here, you can view rolling hills and vineyards for miles. One of Europe’s best hidden vacation locations, it has Tuscany’s beauty without the crowds.
• The historic center of San Marino is UNESCO World Heritage. Inside, you’ll find little alleyways with charming cafés and boutiques. Monte Titano has three towers visible from above.

Where is it?

• San Marino is located in northeastern Italy, just inland from the Adriatic coast. It is a two-hour train travel from Bologna and three hours east of Florence.

9. Ohrid, North Macedonia

Best Europe hidden gems list must include Macedonia (currently North Macedonia as of 2019). The western city of Ohrid is underestimated and should be on your bucket list. Here’s why This city on Lake Ohrid has history, culture, and beauty.

The UNECO World Heritage Site of Ohrid, the “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” has antique streets, churches, and a medieval castle.

Ohrid is called the “Pearl of North Macedonia.” Walk through the cobblestone alleyways with views of the lake and surrounding landscapes and you’ll wonder how Ohrid has remained undiscovered for so long.

What to see and do in Ohrid, one of Europe’s best hidden gems

• In one day, you can visit the city’s historic sites and swim in the lake. The medieval church of St. John the Theologian offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. The 13th-century building has Byzantine architecture and exquisite frescoes.
• Ancient churches and archeological monuments like Saint Sophia, Church of Saint Clement and Panteleimon, Holy Mary Perybleptos, and Plaoshnik are other must-sees.
• In between, visit Samoil’s stronghold, an 11th-century stronghold straddling the ancient town. The historic architecture is unlike anything in Western or Central Europe. You can see why Ohrid is one of Eastern Europe’s best-kept secrets.
• Besides sightseeing, Ohrid is a place to chill and enjoy the outdoors. Many lakeside restaurants and cafés offer bustling atmospheres that may keep you entertained for hours. And the best part? Ohrid has affordable lodging at $10 per night. Winning!

Where is it?

• Ohrid is located in North Macedonia, near the Albanian border. The best way to get here is to fly into Skopje, the capital, and then take a 3.5-hour bus ride. Ohrid is one of Europe’s most unusual destinations, with a beautiful location and many things to see and do.

10. St. Gilgen, Austria

St. Gilgen is a little community on one of Austria’s most beautiful lakes, Wolfgangsee. It offers everything you’d expect from an Alpine town: stunning scenery, fairytale buildings, and traditional cuisine. What else could you want?

St. Gilgen lacks the high prices of Salzburg and the crowds of Hallstatt, making it an ideal location to enjoy Austria’s off-the-beaten-path charm. Here’s why you should visit one of Europe’s best-kept secrets and underestimated destinations.

What to see and do

• In many ways, St. Gilgen is cheery year-round. Winter skiing is popular with Austrians. Zwölferhorn Mountain rises over the town and lake, providing a stunning view of the winter wonderland below.
• Summertime hikers flock to the mountain’s crest. Ride the cable car to the summit for an adventure. The endless vegetation and Alpine lakes below will astound you.
• Along with its scenery, St. Gilgen’s colorful residences and shops make you happy. The facades are painted in every hue (and more). Wooden balconies, charming guesthouses, and family-run eateries are typical Austrian.
• The lake in St. Gilgen offers many water sports in summer. Rent boats, paddle boards, and basically any water equipment. Wolfgangsee provides something for everyone, from leisure to exhilaration.

St. Gilgen is a famous place in Europe to visit anytime of year

• Just before Christmas is another great time to visit St. Gilgen. The town comes to life with a huge “Christkindlmarkt” or Christmas Market.
• The lovely atmosphere makes you feel like you’re walking through an Austrian village from another era. The food and presents on display are also incredibly tempting. Mulled wine, anyone?

Where is it?

• St. Gilgen is located 17 miles (28 kilometers) east of Salzburg, about a 30-minute drive. If you’re only here momentarily, you should  take a guided tour of the entire region. As a huge fan of The Sound of Music, You immediately felt compelled to do The Sound of Music Tour.

11. Rye, England

Want to stay in one of Europe’s most unusual destinations? Rye fulfills your dreams! Rye is a classic English town that transports you.

Its 14th- and 15th-century residences and buildings make it one of the country’s cutest towns. Situated near the English Channel, it offers spectacular views of Romney Marsh and the Rother.

Walk past half-timber homes and ancient inns on cobblestones. Visit Rye Castle Museum and Mermaid Street for medieval charm. It’s clear why this is Europe’s top destination!

Where is it?

• Rye is 70 miles (112 kilometers) southeast of London, a 1.5-hour drive or one-hour rail ride away. If you only have time for a brief visit, you should take a guided tour of the entire region.

12. Basel, Switzerland

Basel, despite its location in the heart of Central Europe, is a hidden treasure that deserves to be included on our list.

What to see and do

• Basel comes alive in July. Town residents and visitors swim in the picturesque Rhine River in summer. As you head downstream, the riverbank’s outdoor view against the Old Town is stunning. Basel also boasts a vibrant art scene.
• Since it has over 40 museums and cultural attractions, this underestimated city is called the “cultural capital of Switzerland.”
• Outside the museums, the streets have many art shows, especially in architecture. Explore on foot and you’ll adore it. The Spalentor (Gate of Spalen) and Basel Münster (Cathedral), both over 500 years old, are municipal landmarks.
  Basel, one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, has enough to see and do.

Where is it?

• Basel is a small city in northwestern Switzerland that borders Germany and France. The city strikes an unusual balance between urban chill and tiny village on the river.

13. Alentejo, Portugal

Unless you’re a wine expert or a native of Portugal, you’ve probably heard little (if anything at all) about Alentejo. This location in southern Portugal has mostly avoided the delight and pain of European tourists thus far. With its old villages, countless vineyards, and constant sunshine, Alentejo deserves a place on your ever-growing list of Europe’s best hidden jewels.

What to see and do

• Dan Flying Solo, a UK travel blogger and Lonely Planet Trailblazer, now lives in Portugal. He recently visited Alentejo, and this is how he described it to me.

Where is it?

• Alentejo is a large region in Portugal’s south. As a result, there are several simple ways to get here from the north and south. In the northern portion of Alentejo, fly into Lisbon and drive east for two hours to Évora. Faro is the greatest airport for travel in the region’s south. Then, travel about 2 hours north to Beja, one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

14. Achill Island, Ireland

Achill Island is an underestimated European destination! This idyllic island off Ireland’s west coast is ideal for escaping the daily grind.

So what makes Achill Island special? First off, it has some of the most stunning scenery. The Wild Atlantic Way island has lush green slopes, beautiful beaches, and jaw-dropping cliffs.

Why visit Achill Island? If you like nature, culture, and Guinness, this is the place for you. You may escape the masses and experience something authentic and immersive here.

Since it’s underappreciated, you won’t have to worry with visitors blocking up the best sights (not that there’s anything wrong with tourists—they just destroy everything).

15. Pag Island, Croatia

Pag Island is over 1,200. It’s one of Croatia’s 1,200 Adriatic Sea islands, which may explain why it’s remained one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

What to see and do in Pag Island, one of the coolest hidden gems of Europe

• In contrast to Croatia’s lush, densely forested islands, Pag Island is almost unearthly. It resembles the moon more than Earth. Instead of rivers and vegetation, the parched terrain has white stones and salt.
• Why salt-of-the-earth people and beachgoers love Pag is obvious. The north of Pag Island has lively nightlife, whereas the south is quieter.
• Many quiet beaches dot the island. The tranquil shoreline has tiny coves and clear sea. Zrce, Strasko, and Spiaggia di Rucica are popular beaches.
• Pag Island is known for its sheep milk cheese and unusual landscape. Croatian artisan cheese is regarded the best. Try Pag Zutica (local white wine) and Pag Lamb with it.

Where is it?

• Pag Island is 35 miles (56 km) north of Zadar, Croatia, a 2-hour bus ride. You can fly into Zadar and take a bus here. In summer, Split, Zagreb, and Rijeka are also connected. Fly through Zadar instead of these cities, which are significantly farther away. It may be Europe’s best hidden gem because it’s hard to get to.

16. Kazimierz Dolny, Poland

When most foreigners think of Poland, they generally think of Warsaw and Kraków. However, there is a small village situated between both cities that is equally beautiful but does not attract as many visitors.

With a population of only 3,500, Kazimierz Dolny has generally escaped the attention of European tourists. It is without a doubt one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

What to see and do

• Art lovers will love Kazimierz Dolny. Streets are perpetual art exhibits. Art galleries are on almost every street, where artists and painters excitedly sell their work. The bright homes and shops on these streets are fitting. Kazimierz Dolny is one of central Europe’s leading art hubs for these reasons.
• Sadder, Kazimierz Dolny has the Holocaust Memorial Wall. In our town’s rich history, good and terrible must be acknowledged. Reflection is possible at the Holocaust Memorial Wall, a short walk from the city center.
• Old Market Square in Kazimierz Dolny is another popular destination. It’s smaller than Kraków’s medieval square, Europe’s largest, yet it’s worth visiting for its amazing architecture. The little area fills rapidly with Polish tourists in summer. Visit the square early in the morning to have it to yourself.

Where is it?

• Kazimierz Dolny is situated about 90 miles (145 kilometers) southeast of Warsaw and 160 miles (260 kilometers) northeast of Kraków. In general, trains in Poland are quite reliable and inexpensive, so getting from one city to another should be easy.
• However, in the case of Kazimierz Dolny, a small town in the countryside, you’ll most likely wish to take the train to Bakowiec and then continue your journey by bus or cab. Whether you are a history buff or an art lover, you will agree that Kazimierz Dolny is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

17. Zermatt, Switzerland

Unlike the other European places on our list, which are reasonably priced (after all, we’re talking about hidden gems), Zermatt is quite costly. But when you consider its location among tall snow-capped mountains, ritzy resorts, and lovely cottages, it’s well worth every Swiss Franc.

Zermatt is well-known in rich social circles as a ski resort town. However, for the rest of us, it is without a doubt one of Europe’s best hidden vacation places.

What to see and do

• Zermatt plays various prominent roles in the foyer year-round. Zermatt is a winter wonderland with a busy après ski scene from January to March.
• It becomes a summer vacation town in April, yet the Matterhorn (elevation: 14,692 ft. / 4,478 m) remains snowy in August. Chocolate lovers like myself will be blown away by the Matterhorn on Toblerone bars. Digital marketing specialist Marie-Lise is from Switzerland’s hospitality industry.

Where is it?

• Zermatt lies on the Swiss-Italian border in southern Switzerland. The nearest airports to Zermatt are Sion and Geneva, while Zurich and Milan are also accessible. The last leg of the journey is the mountain cog railway from Tasch, which offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps.
• Interlaken eclipses Zermatt, a popular hiking and skiing destination. It’s also smaller and less accessible than northern Alpine communities.
• Stay in a hotel, hostel, or Airbnb with snowcapped mountain views to see why it’s one of Central Europe’s best-kept secrets.

18. Mdina, Malta

When you stand on the streets of Mdina, you feel as if you are in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East all at once. This magnificent city has served as a valuable fortification for about 2,700 years.

Its architecture was inspired by numerous major empires, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, and Normans. Today, it is without a doubt one of Europe’s best hidden vacation locations.

What to see and do in one of Europe’s top hidden gem vacation spots

• Mdina’s walled city is a must-see for anybody interested in history or architecture. St. Paul’s Cathedral, built in the 12th century, is arguably the most stunning structure in town. Much of the architecture we see now is in the Baroque style, which dates back to the late 1600s.
• If you love Game of Thrones, you should absolutely include Mdina to your bucket list. The Mdina Gate and Fort served as filming locations for King’s Landing and The Red Keep.

Where is it?

• Mdina is just 8 miles (13 kilometers) from Malta’s capital, Valletta. However, due to severe traffic, it takes roughly an hour by bus to get there.
• Malta, although being a small and compact island, is one of the world’s most densely populated countries. It’s also one of the world’s most Instagrammable nations.

19. Figeac, France

Figeac is one of Europe’s most underappreciated and well-preserved medieval towns. The town’s Wikipedia article contains fewer than 50 words, demonstrating its secretive nature.

Figeac is calm, charming, and arguably the best representation of life in the Middle Ages. It is also one of Europe’s best unknown destinations.

What to see and do

• In Figeac, colorful timber and stone structures blend into the surroundings. The charming village is surrounded by gentle hills and canals, a true French rural experience. History and environment blend in Figeac.
• No single attraction draws people to this town, making it unique. Only a few TripAdvisor “Things to Do” have reviews. Figeac’s ageless beauty attracts travelers more than its attractions.
• Cobbled streets, 13th-century structures, and stunning scenery speak for themselves. Without social media and internet ratings, a destination’s freedom and sincerity are refreshing.
• The famed French researcher who decoded the Egyptian Hieroglyphics, Jean-François Champollion, was born here, which may inspire your wanderlust. He has a museum dedicated to his search for ancient history’s biggest mystery. The Rosetta Stone is also beautifully reproduced at the Musée Champollion.

Figeac is an unusual city in Europe like no other

• For those who appreciate the outdoors, Figeac is an excellent destination for trekking and canoeing. On Saturdays, there is also a large market where you may purchase local produce. It has most likely not changed much in many hundred years, which is part of its appeal.

Where is it?

• Figeac lies around midway between Toulouse, Montpellier, and Bordeaux. It’s about a 2-hour journey north of Toulouse, 3 hours northwest of Montpellier, and 3 hours southeast of Bordeaux.
• Despite its proximity to many major French cities, Figeac remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets. As such, Figeac is one of Europe’s top hidden jewels to visit in 2024.

20. Visby, Sweden

Looking for a hidden gem in Northern Europe? Visit Visby and you won’t be disappointed! Visby, located on the Swedish island of Gotland, is a medieval town full of beauty.

It’s hidden away from the regular tourist population and is mostly popular among Scandinavians. If you want a true Swedish experience, this is it.

What to see and do

• Visby is most known for its Medeltidsveckan (“Medieval Week”), a big medieval festival held from June to August that includes fairytale-themed events including as jousting, street performances, and concerts.
• What is the best part? You get to dress in Swedish medieval clothing. Visby has a 700-year-old wall that encircle the town, adding to its medieval splendor. Visby has had an important strategic and commercial role in the Baltic Sea from the Middle Ages to the present.

Where is this cool Europe hidden gem?

• Visby (and Gotland), located in the Baltic Sea, can be reached by boat or plane. Most people arrive here by direct flight from Stockholm (35 minutes) or as a port city on a Baltic Cruise. It takes around 3 hours by ferry from Nynashamn and Oskarshamn, Sweden.

21. Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Most of these European hidden gems have been concentrated in lesser-known cities and villages, but here’s a superb nature getaway.

Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park and largest protected area. It is located in the eastern part of the Julian Alps and is home to the country’s highest summit, Triglav (9,395 feet / 2,863.65 meters). Here’s what makes it one of Europe’s best hidden gems.

What to see and do

• If you want to get off the beaten path in the Julian Alps, this is it. Walk along the hiking track in Triglav National Park, where natural beauty meets cultural legacy.
• Exploring the stunning lakes, streams, mountains, and communities reveals why this national park has inspired people for years.
• Hike and climb to experience the valleys and mountains’ uniqueness. The environment here is stunning, especially in the autumn when the trees are ablaze with fall colors.
• When visiting Triglav National Park, make sure to spend plenty of time relaxing, unwinding, and connecting with nature.

Where is it?

• Triglav National Park is located in northern Slovenia, near the borders of Italy and Austria. It takes about 30 minutes to drive from Villach, Austria, and an hour to get to Ljubljana, Slovenia. The park is also close to Lake Bled, which is another of my favorite hidden jewels in Europe.

FAQs about unique places to visit in Europe

Here are some often asked questions (and answers) concerning the most underestimated European cities and other hidden treasures in Europe.

• Why should I visit a hidden gem in Europe?

There are numerous excellent reasons to explore a hidden gem in Europe! These sites are ideal for getting away from the noise and bustle of more popular tourist destinations. You can enjoy a slower pace of life and spend more time exploring and appreciating the local culture.

Furthermore, hidden jewels are frequently less expensive than well-known tourist destinations. So you can make your trip budget go a little further.

• Are hidden gems in Europe safe to visit?

As with any trip, it is always a good idea to be alert of your surroundings and adopt common sense precautions. However, hidden gems in Europe are often quite safe to visit.

These sites are frequently located off the beaten path, which means they are less busy and touristy, and hence may have lower crime.

• What is the most underrated place in Europe?

Moldova is possibly Europe’s most undervalued country. Travelers typically neglect this small, landlocked Eastern European country in favor of France and Italy. Moldova has much to offer! It has lush forests, hills, and a rich culture.

The wine is excellent, and you won’t find a better deal on cabernet sauvignon anywhere! If you want the best of Europe without the crowds and tourist traps, Moldova may be for you. Take your sense of adventure and a designated driver if you want to try the local wine!

• What is the best way to find hidden gems in Europe?

One of the best ways to discover hidden gems in Europe is to conduct some research and dig a little deeper.

Look for destinations that are off the beaten road, and read reviews and blogs from other travelers who have been there. You can also ask locals for advice, as they frequently have firsthand knowledge of the best hidden jewels in the area.

• Can I visit a hidden gem in Europe on a budget?

Absolutely! Hidden treasures in Europe are frequently far less expensive than well-known sites. So you can make your trip budget go a little further.

Furthermore, these sites are frequently off the main road, giving you access to more real and local experiences rather than the costly tourist traps seen in more popular areas.

So don’t be scared to venture out and discover lesser-known places of Europe. You might find your new favorite destination!