Europe is home to iconic landmarks that captivate travellers from around the world. Yet, beyond its famous sites lie plenty of hidden gems that often get overlooked.
In this article, I share 12 amazing hidden gems in Europe that’ll make your trip memorable. Come along as we explore these cultural cities and natural wonders!
Author Bio: Jessie Moore
Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.
This post contains affiliate links.
1. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is a coastal city in Montenegro, a small country between Croatia, Serbia, and Albania.
A third of Montenegro is blanketed in high mountains and forests. Meanwhile, the rest of the country comprises picturesque beaches, cities, and lakes.
Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in tradition and history. It’s filled with mediaeval houses and monuments, all overlooking a gorgeous bay.
Tall mountains shield the city from the elements, giving it a lovely Mediterranean climate. The whole scenery feels straight out of a Disney movie!
Kotor is the perfect place to visit if you want a relaxing boat ride in turquoise waters.
It’s for those who love walking along stone alleyways, dining in local eateries, and hunting for treasure amidst quaint shops.
2. Gimmelwald, Switzerland
Gimmelwald is an alpine town housing numerous farms and distilleries – and I consider it to be one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland.
In the summer, it’s a haven of flower meadows and waterfalls. It’s a winter wonderland during the cold months as it becomes a hotspot for ski enthusiasts.
Getting to Gimmelwald is an adventure in itself. You’ll ride a cable car that’ll transport you 1400 metres above sea level.
Once you’re at the top, you’ll be greeted by the expansive blue sky, majestic mountains, and rustic Swiss buildings.
I recommend visiting this hidden gem in Europe for a peaceful vacation in a breathtaking Swiss town!
3. Peleș Castle, Romania
Romania is a country filled with Neoclassical and Baroque palaces. However, out of all of the castles, Peleș Castle stands out from the rest.
Peleș Castle is a 19th-century structure hidden within a lush green forest. A residence of King Carol I, it’s one of Europe’s most beautiful castles!
People come to Peleș Castle to see its chandeliers, stained glass windows, and weapons collection.
It features a music room, royal bedrooms, elaborate wood carvings and ornate furnishings.
Photos don’t do this place justice. I suggest coming to Peleș Castle so you can experience its full majesty. If you’re heading to Bucharest, I’d recommend booking a day trip to Dracula’s Castle, Peleș Castle and Brasov Old Town.
4. Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain
Setenil de las Bodegas, or the Cave Village of Spain, is unique for various reasons. In this town nestled deep within a canyon, people build houses around huge rock formations.
As you wander the narrow white streets, you’ll discover cave restaurants, rivers, and surprising viewpoints. Some people even live within the many natural caves.
Aside from this, Setenil de las Bodegas is surrounded by olive trees and almond fields, which locals process into delicious delicacies and wines.
If that isn’t enough to convince you to visit, Setenil de las Bodegas also has Nazari Castle, an Arab castle with over 40 towers in the 12th century!
Book a day trip from Malaga that combines both Setenil de las Bodegas and Malaga.
5. Bohinj, Slovenia
Bohinj in Slovenia is one of the best hidden gems in Europe for those who love outdoor activities. It’s an oasis of unspoiled waterfalls, gorges, national parks, and valleys.
The jewels of Bohinj are its awe-inspiring lake and mountains. These make it perfect for boating, hiking, horseback riding, and cycling.
I’m confident you’ve never seen a more beautiful lake than Lake Bohinj. Plus, Bohinj has wildflower festivals, museums, and churches you can’t miss out on!
6. Ulm, Germany
Another of the best hidden gems in Europe, The Imperial City of Ulm was one of the most prominent trade routes of the Middle Ages.
It was a hub for manufacturing vehicles, machinery, and other metal products. Because of this, Ulm grew to become a commercial city.
Today, Ulm is a cosmopolitan centre in Germany. That said, fountains, walls, and gates from the mediaeval period still exist.
Within Ulm you’ll find the Gothic Münster, one of the tallest cathedrals in the world – so tall that it took 500 years to complete!
There’s also the interesting Museum of Bread Culture, which displays bakeware from ancient Egypt.
Did I mention Ulm is the birthplace of Albert Einstein? This historical city is definitely worth a visit!
7. Villajoyosa, Spain
Villajoysa is a coastal city declared the Best Hidden Gem of 2024 by European Best Destinations.
Surrounded by the Sierras de Aitana mountains, Villajoyosa has its microclimate. It’s nice and warm all year long, making it the perfect destination for relaxing at the beach.
I love that the local fishermen paint their houses the same colour as their boats, resulting in a wonderful kaleidoscope of colours.
You’ll understand why people dub Villajoysa the “happy town” as you stroll its streets.
What’s more, the place is full of Spanish restaurants, ensuring you have the best gastronomic experience!
8. Primosten, Croatia
It may not be that well known, but I believe Primosten is one of the best resort towns in Europe. There’s no shortage of activities here!
Primosten was once an island and it connected to the mainland in the 16th century. For this reason, Primosten is a great base for exploring the rest of Croatia.
Some of Primosten’s main attractions include the Church of Saint George, the Lady of Loreto Statue, and Raduca Pebble Beach.
Don’t forget to visit the nearby Krka National Park, where you’ll find over 17 waterfalls, a gorgeous monastery, and a crystal-clear blue river.
Book a private tour of Primosten and Krka Waterfalls.
9. Landmannalaugar, Iceland
Landmannalaugar means “people’s pools,” which says a lot about this natural wonder. It’s rich in hot springs, and travellers can’t help but stop by to rest in the warm waters.
Aside from this, Landmannalaugar has a range of outdoor activities. You can explore its obsidian caves, lava fields, and mountains.
During the summer, you can even rent a four-wheel drive vehicle to reach the landmarks further afield.
Book a day hike of Landmannalaugar from Reykjavik.
10. Pont-en-Royans, France
Pont-en-Royans is a quaint yet scenic commune in France. Its main attraction is the row of 16th-century suspended houses atop cliffs along the Bourne River.
These houses have beautiful pastel colours and balconies that hang over the abyss. There’s a lovely stone bridge and a museum dedicated to water.
When you come here, be sure to do it during lunchtime so you can enjoy the riverside picnic area.
Afterwards, don’t forget to stop by Jardin des Carmes, a mediaeval garden with various ancient vegetables and herbs!
11. Pico Island, Azores
Pico Island is a small volcanic island in the Portuguese Azores archipelago.
With an area of 433 square kilometres, the island is dominated by Ponta do Pico, the highest volcano in the Azores!
Pico Island is a 2004 UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its scenery and mineral-rich lava soil. The fertile grounds make it ideal for growing grapes and producing wine.
Aside from this, Pico Island is home to one of the largest lava tubes in the world. You can even enter the lava tube to see its lava stalactites and stalagmites!
Book a guided kayak and snorkel tour of Pico Island.
12. Cicmany, Slovakia
Cicmany is a unique and special place where time seems to have stopped centuries ago. Coming here is a must for people who want to see the traditional painted houses.
Cicmany is a somewhat isolated village. You can experience well-preserved Slovak traditions here, and I love that folk art is everywhere you look.
On top of this, Cicmany is also a popular – but lesser known – ski destination.
It has a museum where you can learn about the local music. Plus, it’s close to Bojnice, a picturesque town with a spa and a mediaeval castle.
Europe is a continent brimming with unique experiences off the beaten path. These 12 hidden gems in Europe barely scratch the surface.
Do you have any favourite hidden gems in Europe? Let me know in the comments below!
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