Forget the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum; Europe is bursting at the seams with places you’ve never even heard of. Think cobblestone streets, dreamy castles, and local cuisine that will open our eyes! Here are off-the-beaten-path gems that will make anyone feel like a true travel insider.
Villajoyosa, Spain
Villajoyosa is a feast for the senses with its beautiful beaches, matched with the brightly colored houses lining the riverbank that basically sums up the town’s character. It’s also the home of Valor, a renowned Spanish chocolate manufacturer. Consider visiting during the Moors and Christians festival!
Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre, or “Five Lands” in Italian, is a stunningly gorgeous section of the Italian Riviera’s coastline. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare are five vibrant fishing villages that cling wildly to the cliffs. Despite its popularity, reaching Cinque Terre isn’t always easy.
Bour, Vagar Island, Feroe Islands
The huge North Atlantic Ocean and the rocky islet of Tindholmur are visible in Bour. With its cluster of colorful houses and its historic 1865 church, the town maintains its medieval charm despite development. Residents protect the peace and quiet away from the bustle of the metropolis.
Salzburg, Austria
The historic center of Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its stunning Baroque architecture. This city is where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born, with his birthplace at Getreidegasse 9 now serving as a museum. Salzburg is forever linked to the beloved film “The Sound of Music.”
Primosten, Croatia
Primosten was originally an island with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The cobblestone streets and stone house speaks of its history. The surrounding area is the vineyards, which are responsible for producing high-quality wines. Over time, the town retains its traditional character and has avoided mass tourism.
Landmannalaugar, Iceland
When we say otherworldly destinations, Landmannalaugar is on top of the game, thanks to rhyolite rock! Located in the Icelandic Highlands, the sense of remoteness is the perfect chance to experience its raw beauty. However, access to Landmannalaugar is limited to the summer months due to harsh winter conditions.
Blavand, Danemark
While Blavand’s coastline is home to striking cliffs and anyone hoping to catch a sight of the North Sea, its sandy beaches are ideal for leisurely strolls. The perspective of a hidden gem is completed by the famous lighthouse, with traces of the Atlantic Wall still evident.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg may not be a hidden gem, but its Grande Ile, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see. The city’s architecture, cuisine, and language reflect a unique blend of French and German influences. Adding to its charm, Strasbourg boasts an astronomical clock with stunning tower views.
Pico Island, Azores
Pico Island is the place to go for anything volcano-related. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the distinctive vineyard designs carved out of lava rock deserve particular recognition. The waters are also a popular destination for whale and dolphin-watching excursions. Grapes cultivated in the distinctive volcanic soil are used to make the regional Pico wine.
Bokodi Floating Village, Hungary
The Bokodi Floating Village consists of hundreds of small houses built on stilts over the surface of Lake Bokodi. The village originated as a settlement for workers at a nearby power plant. The warm water discharged from the plant kept the lake from freezing, allowing year-round fishing.
