24 Hidden European Gems for an Authentic Travel Experience
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If you want to delve deeper than the usual places when visiting Europe, there are still plenty of relatively undiscovered spots on the continent. From more peaceful answers to Amsterdam, Vienna, or York to hidden villages, coastal locations, and unspoiled countryside, ensure you head to one of the following before the tourist hordes arrive.
Cefalu, Sicily
If it’s authenticity you seek, go to Cefalu in Sicily. It’s got a charming old town and a fishing port that dates back to medieval times. The historic village is also home to one of the best beaches on the island and has a stunning cathedral to boot.
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The Hague, Netherlands
Somewhat overshadowed by Amsterdam, The Hague is now coming into its own. And it’s easy to see why, with a clutch of impressive museums, incredible restaurants and bars, and even a golden sandy beach. A warm welcome from the locals and a relaxed atmosphere also add to the appeal.
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Foix, France
Foix can easily rival Carcassonne when it comes to fortified European cities, yet it’s far lesser known. Expect a marvelous medieval castle and a jaw-dropping setting at the foot of the Pyrenees. It’s also temptingly close to Andorra and Spain, should you want to explore further.
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Vipava Valley, Slovenia
With Lake Bled and Ljubljana now firmly embedded on the tourist map, other parts of Slovenia find it their time to shine. The Vipava Valley is a prime example and can easily rival Tuscany’s scenery. Ideally, head here to cycle between cellars, admiring the vineyards and stopping to sample the wares – and local food – en route.
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Durham, UK
American travel writer Bill Bryson cannot get enough of Durham – and he’s not the only one. This relatively unknown UK city is far lesser known than neighboring York, making it an undiscovered delight. A top-class university, snug riverside pubs, and one of the country’s finest cathedrals are among the reasons to visit.
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Perast, Montenegro
Perast lies just north of Kotor, a popular coastal vacation destination in Montenegro. This small port is historically significant as it was once a major crossroads between the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. Things to discover here include little coastal inlets, fine palaces, and more than 15 historic churches.
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Castelmezzano, Italy
If you think Italy is too touristy to be home to a hidden getaway, think again. Castelmezzano can be found nestled among the Dolomiti Lucane mountain range, and you can even take a thrilling zipline ride from here to the neighboring village of Pietrapertosa. Timeless terracotta roofs and abundant hiking trails through the hills and forest make this place a must.
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Sirmione, Italy
Another of Italy’s best-kept secrets is Sirmione. This 13th-century fortress town sits by Lake Garda and is blessed by natural spa waters. It also boasts a magnificent castle, and wandering through the twisting, narrow lanes of the town is a pleasing pastime.
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Read also: Underrated Places in the Mediterranean
Graz, Austria
Austria’s second city fits into the undiscovered gem category. It’s a favorite of foodies, not least vegetarians, as the local cuisine is inspired by regional produce from the surrounding Styrian countryside. Add the fact that it’s both UNESCO-listed and a City of Design, and you have a gloriously green destination steeped in history and culture.
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Sami, Kefalonia, Greece
Kefalonia has been a popular Greek destination for decades, especially since featuring in the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. Yet Sami on the northeast coast remains relatively remote in tourist terms, yet is home to the magical Melissani Cave. Many locals starred in the movie as extras, so you can expect to hear all about their escapades when shopping or dining out in town.
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Read more: Best Time to Visit Greece
Pico Island, Portuguese Azores
Head to the Portuguese Azores to explore the island of Pico. Though São Miguel is an up-and-coming island here, Pico offers a more authentic, unspoiled experience. Come here for Portugal’s highest mountain, sublime surf, a subterranean lava tube, wildlife-spotting boat trips, and rolling vineyards.
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Sistelo, Portugal
Another Portuguese gem to discover is Sistelo. It’s ideal for hikers, who can revel in the glory of the untouched countryside and the green terraces created by local farmers. Sistelo is considered both a wonder of Portugal and a culturally significant landscape, and the seven-mile Brandas de Sistelo trail makes it accessible to all.
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Read also: What to Do in Lisbon
Faroe Islands, Denmark
Denmark’s Faroe Islands are a favored destination among nature lovers. Bird watchers and fans of fishing and hiking flock here to see the puffins, sheep, and other creatures that call the 18 small islands home. The name literally translates as Sheep Islands. The appealing archipelago results from ice age glaciers and past volcanic activity. The area is easy to explore, thanks to a network of roads, bridges, and public transport options.
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Read also: Hidden Islands in Europe
Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain
Setenil de las Bodegas in southern Spain features charming whitewashed homes built into the cliffs. This Andalusian town offers a selection of appealing and historic architecture, plus sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. The old castle overlooking the town was once an Arabian fortress. You can also climb the Torreón del Homenaje tower for superb landscape views. Also of interest in the Setenil de las Bodegas area are the Centro de Interpretación Medioambiental del Olivar, focusing on local history, and the ancient Ruins of Acinipo to the southwest, which include a Roman theater still used today.
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Adishi, Georgia
Nestled in the Georgian highlands, Adishi is a European destination with a difference. This little mountain settlement retains an authentic, local charm. At more than 2,000 meters above sea level, you can expect sweeping views, too. If you want to ski or hike off the beaten path, Adishi could be your ideal destination. It also offers ancient churches, attractive frescoes, and medieval architecture.
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Gimmelwald, Switzerland
Close to the more touristy Lauterbrunnen, Gimmelwald offers visitors to Switzerland a chance to escape the crowds. You can reach Gimmelwald by bus using the Schilthornbahn cable car. Once you alight, there’s immediate access to a network of hiking trails. This compact, car-free Swiss village is over 1360 meters above sea level and nestled at the base of the UNESCO-listed Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area.
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Sault, France
Instead of following the crowds to the Valensole Plateau or Luberon in Provence, head to Sault. Perched on a rocky outcrop at around 775 meters above sea level, Sault offers authentic French charm and stunning scenery. Make sure you sample some of the local nougat during your visit. The local lavender fields are also unmissable during the summer season.
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The Isles of Scilly, UK
Though Cornwall is well known as a British bucket-and-spade, foodie, and historic destination, the Isles of Scilly remain relatively untouched. The photogenic islands lie less than 30 miles from the Cornish coast, and offer long stretches of deserted beach. Thanks to the island’s microclimate, you can see subtropical flora at Tresco Abbey Garden. The islands are also a serious foodie destination in their own right.
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Pietrapertosa, Italy
Pietrapertosa lies close to Castelmezzano in Italy, so you can tick off two destinations in one when taking a trip here. An adrenaline-inducing zip line connects the two. The medieval homes and narrow streets here appear to be built into the rock and form a photogenic cluster of whitewashed buildings with terracotta roofs. Pietrapertosa belongs to the I Borghi più belli d’Italia association, comprising a string of Italian towns with particular historical and artistic appeal.
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Read also: Hidden Gems of Southern Europe
Timișoara, Romania
Bypass busy Bucharest and tourist-track Transylvania by heading for Timișoara instead. This hidden gem can be found in western Romania, close to the Hungarian and Serbian borders. Timișoara is perhaps surprisingly cosmopolitan, and life here centers on Piata Unirii – or Union Square. Both Orthodox and Catholic churches are located in the city square. You can sample Serbian cuisine here, as well as Romanian. Timișoara also offers Casa Bruck, a visually stunning Art Nouveau pharmacy.
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Åland Islands, Finland
Like the Faroe Islands in Denmark, the Åland Islands of Finland are an undiscovered delight. This Baltic archipelago consists of about 6,700 islands. Fasta Åland is the main one, and its capital, Mariehamn, features streets lined with traditional wooden townhouses. The islands also offer an abundance of lovely beaches. Thanks to good transport links with mainland Finland, Sweden, and Estonia, visiting Åland via the western port of Västerhamn is also simple.
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Poznań, Poland
The vibrant university city of Poznań in Poland is a real hidden delight. It’s packed with buzzing bars and smart restaurants. Head to the old town square at midday to witness the traditional ceremony involving two mechanical billy goats headbutting one another. If you visit in winter, don’t miss the chance to try a St Martin’s croissant from a city bakery. It’s a local specialty featuring a white poppy seed filling.
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Serdiana, Sardinia, Italy
On the attractive Italian island of Sardinia is Serdiana, an appealing town with a pretty church. You can also see flamingos nesting at the salt lake Su Stani Saliu, which, like the 10th century Santa Maria di Sibiola church, is just a couple of miles from town. The area is also a real foodie destination, with five wineries to visit, plus olive groves to explore.
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Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
If you’re into food and drink, then Jerez de la Frontera is an unmissable destination. The small city is also easy to visit by taking a day trip from popular Seville. The local cathedral and Alcázar are among the attractions, but what Jerez is known for is sherry production. Sample the wares at a city bar, or visit a Bodega to learn how sherry is made. Jerez is also perfect for those who want to experience authentic Andalusian culture.
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
