When people think about traveling to Europe, the same big-name cities always come up—Paris, Rome, London. But there’s so much more to explore beyond the usual tourist hotspots. Some of the best experiences happen in places that don’t make it onto every travel itinerary. If you’re looking for stunning scenery, rich history, and a more authentic vibe, these lesser-known European cities should be on your radar.
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia – A Fairytale Capital Without the Crowds
Ljubljana might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip to Europe, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. This charming little capital is walkable, colorful, and full of life without being overwhelming. It’s got riverside cafés, cobblestone streets, and just the right mix of history and modern energy.
Best Time to Go: Spring and early fall for mild weather, fewer tourists, and plenty of outdoor events.
Why Visit? It’s one of the most scenic and laid-back capitals in Europe, perfect for strolling along the river and exploring hidden corners without feeling rushed. The city has a youthful energy, thanks to its large student population, but it still retains its old-world charm.
Must-See:
- Ljubljana Castle – A medieval castle with panoramic city views, accessible by funicular.
- Dragon Bridge – A famous city landmark, perfect for photos.
- Tivoli Park – A massive green space ideal for a peaceful escape.
2. Colmar, France – A Storybook Town Straight Out of a Dream
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a postcard, Colmar is the place to do it. This small French town looks like something from a fairytale, with colorful half-timbered houses and canals winding through the streets. It’s beautiful year-round, but it really comes alive in spring and during the holiday season.
- Why Visit? Often called the “Little Venice of France,” Colmar offers a peaceful, romantic atmosphere with charming architecture and picturesque canals.
- Must-See:
- Little Venice – The most iconic part of the city, with colorful houses reflected in the water.
- Unterlinden Museum – A small but impressive art museum featuring medieval and Renaissance artwork.
- Best Time to Go: Spring for blooming flowers and vineyard tours, or December for magical Christmas markets.
3. Ghent, Belgium – A Medieval City with a Cool, Modern Vibe
Often overshadowed by its neighbor Bruges, Ghent is an absolute gem. It’s got everything you’d want from a historic European city—stunning canals, medieval buildings, and lively squares—but with a much more local feel. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours just wandering and stumbling across cool little cafés and shops.
- Why Visit? Unlike tourist-heavy Bruges, Ghent offers a more authentic Belgian experience, blending medieval history with a lively student culture. It’s also known for its fantastic food scene, with plenty of local specialties to try.
- Must-See:
- Gravensteen Castle – A well-preserved medieval fortress with incredible city views.
- Graslei & Korenlei – The most picturesque waterfront area, lined with historic buildings.
- STAM Museum – A fascinating look into Ghent’s history, culture, and future.
- Best Time to Go: Late spring or early fall for pleasant weather, or summer for festivals and open-air events.
Important Information to know
Currency – Most of these cities use the Euro (€), except for Bosnia & Herzegovina (Convertible Mark) and Romania (Romanian Leu).
Best Time to Visit – Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer great weather with fewer tourists.
Transport – Many European cities have well-connected trains and buses, making it easy to travel between them.
Budget – These destinations are generally more affordable than major cities, but prices vary depending on the season.
4. Bergamo, Italy – Italy’s Most Underrated Hilltop City
Just an hour from Milan, Bergamo is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Unlike the country’s bigger cities, it’s not packed with tourists, but it’s just as stunning. The historic upper town (Città Alta) sits on a hill, giving you panoramic views, while the lower town has a lively local feel. It’s got the charm of Italy without the chaos of more crowded spots.
- Why Visit? A perfect mix of medieval charm and Italian elegance, Bergamo is often overlooked despite its beautiful architecture, incredible food, and stunning views.
- Must-See:
- Piazza Vecchia – The heart of the old town, surrounded by historic buildings and cozy cafés.
- Città Alta (Upper Town) – A charming medieval district full of narrow cobblestone streets, stunning views, and historic architecture, making it the heart of Bergamo’s old town.
- Venetian Walls – A UNESCO-listed landmark offering amazing views of the city.
- Best Time to Go: Spring or fall for comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.
“Bergamo is one of Italy’s hidden gems. This lovely, compact town has all the charm of a Tuscan hill town—without the crowds.” – Rick Steves
5. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina – A City with Breathtaking Views
Mostar is famous for its beautiful stone bridge that stretches across the Neretva River, and honestly, it’s even more stunning in person. The old town is full of winding streets, little markets, and cozy spots to sit and take in the view. It’s small enough to explore in a day but has enough charm to make you want to stay longer.
- Why Visit? A perfect mix of history, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere, Mostar is an ideal stop for those exploring the Balkans.
- Must-See:
- Stari Most (Old Bridge) – The city’s most famous landmark, with breathtaking river views.
- Old Bazaar (Bazar Kujundžiluk) – A great place to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
- Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque’s Viewpoint – One of the best places to get panoramic views of the city.
- Best Time to Go: Late spring or early fall to avoid the summer heat and crowds.
6. Porto, Portugal – A Coastal City with Endless Charm
Lisbon might be Portugal’s most famous city, but Porto has just as much to offer—without feeling overly crowded. It’s got colorful waterfront buildings, stunning viewpoints, and some of the best food in Portugal. It’s the kind of place where you can wander for hours and never get bored.
- Why Visit? Porto is a mix of coastal beauty, historic charm, and a thriving local culture, with plenty of amazing restaurants and viewpoints.
- Must-See:
- Ribeira District – The city’s most iconic riverside neighborhood, filled with colorful buildings and restaurants.
- Dom Luís I Bridge – A massive double-deck bridge with stunning views of the Douro River.
- Livraria Lello – One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, said to have inspired scenes in Harry Potter.
- Best Time to Go: Spring or early fall for warm but comfortable weather.
7. Sibiu, Romania – A Hidden Gem in Transylvania
Sibiu feels like a medieval fairytale town, but it’s got a cool, artsy vibe too. The colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and little squares make it one of the most charming places in Romania. Plus, it’s surrounded by beautiful landscapes, so there are plenty of opportunities for nature lovers to explore.
- Why Visit? A perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures, Sibiu is great for those who love charming small towns with a lot of character.
- Must-See:
- Bridge of Lies – A famous bridge with interesting legends attached to it.
- Grand Square (Piata Mare) – The historic center surrounded by pastel-colored buildings.
- Best Time to Go: Summer for festivals or fall for a quieter, cozy experience.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for something different on your next trip to Europe, these underrated cities are worth considering. They offer all the beauty and culture of popular destinations but without the overwhelming crowds. Whether you love charming old towns, scenic landscapes, or just discovering hidden gems, these places will leave you with unforgettable memories.
