Are you bored of Paris, Berlin or Rome? And think London is past it? Well, forget all these metropolitan centers in Europe, though each of them attracts huge throng of tourists all year round. It’s time to escape from annoying crowds and enjoy solitude.
The continent of Europe is dotted with many beautiful cities and beaches that are underappreciated and as a result far less crowded than those popular tourist destinations. It is also full of undiscovered small towns and villages which can offer you incredible opportunities for romance and adventure.
Take a look at the following pictures and find your own secret piece of paradise from our picks of Europe’s secluded destinations – cities, towns, villages and beaches.
Underappreciated Cities
1. Podgorica, Montenegro
The capital and largest city in Montenegro. It’s within easy reach of a few ski resorts as well as beaches along the Adriatic Sea. Breathtaking landscapes and the prime location – on the meeting point of Ribnica and Moraca Rivers – make Podgorica really attractive.
2. Belgrade, Serbia
Credits: whl.travel, wikipedia
You know what? Even Belgraders agree that this isn’t a beautiful city. However, you might be attracted at first sight by its hedonism, vitality and finesse.
3. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Well, Sarajevo hasn’t seen huge crowds of visitors in the past although it’s one of the most historically interesting cities in Europe. This city is definitely a living museum of history and you can find old-fashioned mosques, cathedrals and churches almost everywhere in this city.
The main charm of Sarajevo lies in its cobbled streets, rattly trams circling the central district, the artillery scarred Library, the Latin Bridge, Yellow Fortress and the ancient Markale Market Place etc. Plus, you can not miss the stunning views from surrounding hills.
Best Kept Towns & villages
4. Schwarzenberg, Austria
Credits: wikipedia, Veigo Kell, coffeemoon
Situated in the region of Bregenzerwald, Vorarlberg, this village is perfect for your winter vacation if you are a big fan of ski and snowboard. It’s also an idyllic place with plenty of traditional architectures.
5. Zagora, Greece
Credits: sabine.scheele, Crazy farmer
This traditional village can be found at Pillion Mountain. It boasts a charming location which allows it to overlook the Aegean Sea and get a fantastic view. Houses there are built in a traditional style and feature glamorous wooden carved windows.
6. Cashel, Ireland
Credits: Walt Norblad, wikipedia
A small town in South Tipperary in Ireland. Sitting in vast green lands and surrounded by a series of mountains ranges, it’s kind of isolated from the world. Well-preserved medieval buildings and a street with plenty of pubs can definitely keep you busy during your trip.
7. Cinque Terre, Italy
The Cinque Terre is the name of five small villages which lie in the Liguria region of Italy. These places maintain the traditional glamour and characters of Italian villages of the past. Miles and miles fantastic trails also make Cinque Terre a magnet for hikers.
8. Tropea, Italy
Credits: .:serena_in_wonderland:., PhotoLab XL, efilpera, alesduchac
It’s a pretty town hidden in Southern Italy. Located right on the edge of steep cliffs, Tropea is widely known as an ideal bathing place.
9. Vianden, Luxembourg
Credits: JimHellas, Wilson Loo
As one of the smallest European countries, Luxembourg furnishes visitors with a beautiful array of impressive castles in Vianden. In addition, guests are welcomed to pay a visit to some of the interesting historic monuments located throughout this town.
10. Kinderdijk, Netherlands
The most attractive sights in this small village are windmills. And you got to check the 17th century windmill park out. The museumwindmill is open to tourists for free, from April to the end of October.
11. Penacova, Portugal
Credits: Tania Ho, oliverlaumann
Seated on the right bank of the Mondego River, this attractive village is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and famous for its gorgeous landscape. What you can not miss are windmills and watermills located all over the municipality.
12. Kuressaare, Estonia
Kuressaare is one of the star attractions in Saaremaa. It is worth your visit thanks to a 13th century castle which rise up in its midst, picturesque and leafy streets and charming cafes.
13. Porec, Croatia
Credits: wikipedia, clg20171, jmcnally
The major landmarks worth your visit in this small town, which lie in Istria in the middle of a vast region of resorts, include the Temple of Mars, Neptune’s Temple, the Istrian Parliament Building and the Venetian style Leoin and Zuccato Palaces.
14. Korcula, Croatia
Credits: Little Green Dragon, stewartmorris
When visiting this beautiful town that is rich in art and culture, you will see plenty of boats jam-packed on one of the greenest islands in the Adriatic Sea.
15. Harrachov, Czech Republic
Credits: wikipedia, JustinCaze
This is the largest mountain town in Czech Republic. It’s located on the Mumlava River and serves as the main center for ski jumping training. Some of the dominants that will attract you are Ski Museum, Micro Brewery Tour and Tours of the Glassworks.
The most amazing thing is that you will be able to unwind in a bath of beer at the unique Harrachov beer spa!
16. Sopron, Hungary
Credits: zsoolt, tonywatkins, Emmanuel Dyan, rishon-lezion
The hidden jewel of Hungary sits on the Austrian border, between the Sopron Mountains and Lake Ferto. You will be totally impressed with its large amount of monuments and listed buildings.
17. Castle Combe, England
Credits: wikipedia
Hailed as the most beautiful village in England, Castle Combe in Cotswolds absolutely deserves the reputation. To get a spectacular view of this small village, you are recommended to head to the old weavers’ cottage.
Secret Beaches
18. Cala d’en Serra Beach, Ibiza
Being a secluded part of the Spanish island Ibiza that is renowned for partying, the Cala d’en Serra Beach is surly an undiscovered jewel. Regardless of its fascinating beach behind the rocky cliff, few people visit Cala d’en Serra Beach.
19. Mwnt beach, Cardigan Bay, Wales
Credits: IMP1, stephendl, graham_alton
Well, this is a remote and small beach visited by few people. Being a sheltered sandy cove, it is characterized with well-trodden path leading to the top of the hill, from which you can get a stunning view of surrounding beaches.
20. Cap Ferret Beach, France
One of the chicest beaches in France which show you their unpretentious charms and beauty. You got to pay a visit. Lighthouses and handfuls of ancient churches are main attractiveness of this beach.
21. Smuggler’s Cove, Zakynthos, Greece
Credits: heatheronhertravels, morberg
The most picturesque beach in Greece if not in the world. This secret destination can furnish guests with clear warm water, giant crabs and a haunting shipwreck in its midst.
22. Skagen Beach, Denmark
For people who know Skagen well, the first things coming to their minds when they talk about this beach will be fresh seafood, the most photographed surroundings and the busy working harbor.
23. The Curonian Spit, Lithuania
This wonderful sandy peninsula is an untouched jewel. Serving as a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared by two countries, this beach provides not only breathtaking scenery, but also various entertainment options.
24. Es Migjorn Beach, Formentera, Balearic Islands
Credits: CPGXK
The most extensive beach is surly unspoiled. It’s a perfect mix of sand, stone and clam & warm waters. A number of beach bars and boats can be found there. Plus, nudity is accepted on this beach.
25. Paradise Bay, Malta
Credits: Dixon Dixon, Peter Musu`, David Locke
A truly paradise at the very north of Malta. It might be the smallest beach; however it possesses the most amazing view out over the Mediterranean.
26. Canos de Meca Beach, Spain
Credits: Opspin, cabezadeturco, chusoart
This little gem on the shore of the Alboran Sea is renowned for its impressive landscape, the pine forests and fabulous Atlantic coastline etc. It’s an ideal destination for water sport enthusiasts.
27. Warnemunde Beach, Germany
Credits: uitdragerij, samclark1
The beach is all about sun-bath, fresh seafood, kite surfing, windsurfing and diving etc. Besides, lots of public facilities are provided for your convenience and pleasure.
