When planning a vacation, one usually hopes to break out of routine, and taking a wonderful trip to a new and unfamiliar place may be just the way to do it. If you haven’t yet planned your next vacation, you may want to consider the following 15 European cities, which are considered a recommended tourist destination but aren’t actually filled with tourists. This way, you’ll be able to experience the European countries in the most authentic way possible, without compromising the landscape, atmosphere, and enjoyment. So, choose the place that appeals to you the most and start planning your next vacation in Europe!
1. In Bruges, Belgium
The houses in Bruges look like they are made of gingerbread, and together with the soft street lighting and the bridges that connect the parts of the city, this is a highly recommended place for a romantic vacation. The canal network of Bruges has given it the name "Venice of the North", and many consider it one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe.
2. Brasov, Romania
It’s not by chance that people call Brasov "The Pearl of Transylvania". The city is hidden in a valley located between evergreen mountains, and it is the perfect place for those looking for an old city resort that holds many secrets. The roofed houses in the city are hundreds of years old, and together with the ancient clock tower that rings every hour, you won’t be able to escape the sense of calm and tranquility that characterizes the area.
3. Gdansk, Poland
The old town, which is situated on the shores of the Baltic Sea, has a unique atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere in Poland. Dozens of cafes await you there, along with a number of museums and exhibitions that will provide art enthusiasts with many hours of recreation and enjoyment. The city also has a variety of fairs and festivals throughout the year, so it is recommended to check on those before planning your trip.
4. Ronda, Spain
The unique town of Ronda, which is hundreds of years old, looks like it hovers over huge stone cliffs. Don’t be surprised if you get lost in the city streets while you wander through them, just fear not because it’s all part of the unique experience.
5. Koman, Albania
It’s worth visiting this small village, if only for the wonderful nature that surrounds it, including Lake Koman, whose azure waters alongside the green mountains make the sight so indescribable.
6. Novi Sad, Serbia
The second largest city in Serbia is known for its many museums, galleries, and impressive monuments, so it’s no wonder that it is considered the cultural capital of Serbia. The symbol of Novi Sad is the Citadel of Petrovadin, from which you can see the amazing scenery of the city and the Danube River.
7. Porto, Portugal
The lively and happy atmosphere of the former capital of Portugal will fill you with energy and positive feelings whenever you wander through it. If you like to traverse large cities on streets filled with locals all day long, this is the place for you.
8. Bergamo, Italy (Bergamo)
What makes Bergamo so special is that it’s possible to walk through its ancient streets for hours and even days without being tired of it. After exploring the city, you can visit one of the local restaurants where you’ll find over 250 types of pizza. 9. Albarracin, Spain On the edge of a rocky cliff is a charming pink city that looks like a fairy tale. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you’ll believe for a moment that time has stopped, and it is certainly an amazing experience that everyone can and will appreciate. 10. Batumi, Georgia Batumi is a healing city that many tourists reach to enjoy its hot springs and a stroll among the diverse vegetation that characterize it. After exploring the many botanical gardens, you can visit the state museum of Ajaria and the impressive dolphinarium, which holds about 100 kinds of impressive fish, including, of course, dolphins. 11. Riga, Latvia The Old City is known for the many events that are held on its paved streets. As you stroll through, you can see some of the most beautiful buildings you’ll see in Latvia, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the place. 12. Lugano, Switzerland It’s not for nothing that Lugano received the nickname "Monte Carlo of Switzerland". Most of the residents speak Italian and the only reason you’ll feel that you aren’t actually in Italy is the view of the Alps that you’ll see everywhere. In the summer months, you can take part in the Lugano Festival celebrations and enjoy the annual classical music festival. 13. Kotor, Montenegro Kotor Bay has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and it is highly recommended to stroll along the Venetian wall of the city, decorated with various reliefs. After, you can go to the village of Noguchi near the city and take in its impressive scenery. 14. Cologne, Germany If you're looking for a place with a vibrant nightlife, Cologne, Germany is the city for you. When you’re done partying, you can visit one of its 31 museums and see the Cologne Cathedral, considered the largest church in northern Europe. 15. Lourdes, France The impressive Church in Lourdes is a sight that everyone should see with their own eyes, and if you’re already there it is recommended that you sip from the spring water in Lourdes, which many claim to have special healing powers.
