Europe is undoubtedly a treasure trove of popular tourist destinations. From the romantic streets of Paris to the ancient ruins of Rome and the charming canals of Amsterdam, these iconic cities attract millions of travelers each year. However, amidst these well-known hotspots, lie countless hidden gems that often go unnoticed by visitors.
It is in these lesser-explored corners of Europe that you will find the essence of true discovery. Picture yourself strolling through the medieval streets of Ghent, Belgium, with its picturesque canals and stunning architecture. Or perhaps you’d prefer to wander through the colorful neighborhoods of Porto, Portugal, known for its vibrant street art and delicious port wine.
For a unique cultural experience, head to Riga, Latvia, where a blend of medieval, art nouveau, and Soviet-era architecture awaits. The charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
If you’re seeking tranquility and natural beauty, the Faroe Islands, an autonomous territory of Denmark, offers breathtaking landscapes with rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages. Explore the stunning fjords of Norway, where majestic mountains meet crystal-clear waters, creating scenes straight out of a fairytale.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to Matera, Italy, often called the “City of Stones,” is a must. Its ancient cave dwellings offer a glimpse into the region’s past, while its vibrant cultural scene showcases its modern-day charm.
Europe is a continent filled with surprises, and these are just a handful of the lesser-known destinations that await your discovery. So, next time you plan your European adventure, consider going off the beaten path and uncovering the hidden treasures that often get overlooked by travelers.
Untapped Europe: 10 Underrated Destinations
- Untapped Europe: 10 Underrated Destinations
- What is the single and most underrated city in Europe?
- Which is the best country to visit in Europe?
- Which is the cheapest country to visit in Europe?
- What is the most photogenic place in Europe?
- Which country in Europe should I visit first?
- Is Italy the best country in Europe?
- How many European countries should I visit?
Porto, Portugal
Porto, located in the north of Portugal, is a charming city filled with colorful buildings and historic landmarks. Famous for its port wine, visitors can indulge in wine tastings while soaking up the city’s culture and history.
Bruges, Belgium
Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a picturesque city with beautiful canals and quaint architecture. Visitors can explore the city’s historical landmarks, tasting delicious chocolate, and enjoying a boat ride along the canals.
Riga, Latvia
Riga is a city known for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and rich history. Visitors can explore the Old Town, enjoy the city’s many festivals, and indulge in traditional Latvian cuisine.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a rich history and vibrant culture.
Visitors can explore the Roman amphitheater, stroll through the Old Town, and indulge in delicious Bulgarian food.
Bergen, Norway
Bergen is a city located on the west coast of Norway, known for its stunning fjords and colorful buildings. Visitors can explore the Hanseatic wharf, ride the funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen, and indulge in traditional Norwegian cuisine.
Kotor, Montenegro
Located on the Adriatic coast, Kotor is a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and stunning turquoise waters.
Visitors can explore the Old Town, hike to the fortress, and enjoy local seafood dishes.
Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk is a city with a rich history and an architectural mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Visitors can explore the Old Town, enjoy a walk along the Motława river, and indulge in traditional Polish cuisine.
Salzburg, Austria
Known as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a charming city filled with historical landmarks, stunning views of the Alps, and delicious Austrian cuisine.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is a small city filled with charming architecture, lively cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Inverness, Scotland
Inverness is a city located in the Scottish Highlands, known for stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious Scottish cuisine.
There are so many underrated destinations in Europe with a rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. So why not plan a trip to one of these hidden gems and experience everything Europe has to offer?
What is the single and most underrated city in Europe?
Some cities that might be considered underrated in Europe are:
- Porto, Portugal
- Valencia, Spain
- Krakow, Poland
- Bruges, Belgium
- Tallinn, Estonia
- Gdansk, Poland
- Sofia, Bulgaria
- Riga, Latvia
- Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Split, Croatia
These cities are often less crowded than popular tourist destinations like Paris or Rome, but they have a lot of charm and attractions to offer.
Which is the best country to visit in Europe?
Some of the most popular countries to visit in Europe include Italy, France, Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Portugal.
Each of these countries has its own unique culture, attractions, and scenery that make them a great destination for travelers.
Ultimately, the best country to visit depends on personal interests and preferences.
Which is the cheapest country to visit in Europe?
Some of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe are:
- Bulgaria
- Hungary
- Poland
- Romania
- Czech Republic
- Slovakia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Montenegro
- Albania
- Serbia
What is the most photogenic place in Europe?
Some of the most photogenic places in Europe according to travel guides and blogs:
- Santorini, Greece
- Venice, Italy
- Barcelona, Spain
- Paris, France
- The Swiss Alps, Switzerland
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
- Cinque Terre, Italy
However, Europe is full of iconic landmarks and beautiful scenery that make for great photo opportunities. So, the most photogenic place may vary depending on personal preferences.
Which country in Europe should I visit first?
Here are some popular destinations in Europe:
- Italy – for foodies, history buffs, and art lovers
- Spain – for beaches, nightlife, and rich culture
- France – for romantic escapes, picturesque landscapes, and art museums
- United Kingdom – for history and culture, iconic landmarks, and diverse cities
- Greece – for ancient history, stunning islands, and Mediterranean beauty
- Germany – for beer festivals, modern cities, and historical sites
- Portugal – for beaches, seafood, and charming towns
- Netherlands – for cycling, peaceful countryside, and vibrant cities
- Switzerland – for snow-capped mountains, scenic train rides, and chocolate
- Austria – for classical music, ski resorts, and stunning architecture
Ultimately, the best country to visit first depends on your interests, budget, and travel style.
Is Italy the best country in Europe?
Italy is a country with a rich history, culture, and cuisine, and is home to world-renowned landmarks such as the Colosseum, Pompeii, and the canals of Venice. It is also known for its fashion and design industry, picturesque landscapes, and artistic achievements.
Therefore, Italy it can be considered one of the best countries in Europe, but ultimately, it is up to personal preferences
How many European countries should I visit?
Europe has 44 countries, each with its unique culture and attractions, so you may want to research and prioritize the places you want to visit most.
It is suggested to limit your selection to a maximum of three nations (ideally two) to avoid feeling rushed or overwhelmed with time constraints. Alternatively, you can consider availing a pre-packaged Europe trip. For additional valuable guidance on backpacking across Europe, make sure to browse through the Nomatic blog and commence planning your Europe excursion now.
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