When you’re thinking of visiting Europe for a city break, which cities come to mind? Is it Paris, Venice, Amsterdam, London, Prague, or Berlin?
It makes sense to think of these cities as they’re truly popular and rich with history and culture. Yet, what about the hidden gems in Europe? The cities nobody ever mentions and are off the beaten track?
Well, these are the ones I’m going to share with you in this guide.
I’ve compiled 10 underrated European cities that offer something distinct from the tourist-filled streets of the big metropolises.
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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.
1. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Best for: Romantic strolls
Top tour: Mostar and Kravica Waterfall Day Trip from Dubrovnik
There’s something about Mostar that conveys fantasy.
Wandering through its winding streets feels like stepping onto the set of a high-fantasy production, where dragons might soar overheat at any given moment.
One place where you can feel this most ardently is the Stari Most. This is a 16th-century Ottoman-style bridge that goes over the Nerveta River, connecting the city.
The hump-backed bridge offers a perfect stroll over the beautiful waters and stunning sights of the colourful buildings.
2. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Best for: Pedestrian-friendly exploration
Top tour: Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle Tickets and Tour
There was a Roman city called Emona many centuries ago, and it was the capital of Carniola.
Today, that city no longer exists, and, in its place, Ljubljana shines brighter than ever as the capital of Slovenia.
The metropolis is full of beautiful sites to visit, especially castles! Once you step through Ljubljana castle’s walls, you’ll see history unravelling slowly.
The castle was rebuilt and renovated over the centuries, leaving guests to marvel at the beautiful contrast between old and new architecture.
Ljubljana’s charm is also enhanced by its pedestrian-friendly layout, making it a joy to explore on foot.
The city centre is largely car-free, with many streets dedicated solely to pedestrians and cyclists.
3. Bern, Switzerland
Best for: Scenic beauty
Top tour: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
This picturesque city holds everything you could dream about in a city break destination. Places to swim, museums, and historical sites sprawled everywhere in Bern.
Nonetheless, one of its most famous highlights is actually a bear park! Though this may sound odd, the city has kept bears on display since the 15th century.
The next highlight of this destination is the Old Bern.
It’s surrounded on three sides by the waters of the River Aare, with mediaeval buildings and structures still as good as the day they were built.
The city was awarded a UNESCO World Heritage status in 1983.
If you’re planning a visit to the city, read my guides to the top things to do in Bern and the best hotels in Bern.
4. Tirana, Albania
Best for: Quiet relaxation
Top tour: Express Walking Tour
I feel like not enough people visit Albania. It’s not a country you’d often hear on someone’s travel itinerary, but I’m hoping to change that!
Tirana is a beautiful but underrated European city that’s rich in wonderful places with Ottoman and Soviet-era architecture all around. What makes it stand out, though, is the calm.
Tirana is truly off the beaten track, guaranteeing that wherever you go, you’re not surrounded by too many tourists.
5. Innsbruck, Austria
Best for: Year-round outdoor activities
Top tour: Top of Innsbruck Round Trip Cable Car Ticket
Innsbruck is a wonderful city to visit in both the winter and summer seasons. It’s an incredibly pretty European city with pastel-coloured buildings framed by snow-capped mountains.
It can be considered one of the gateways to the Austrian Alps with many activities year-round. In winter, it turns into a ski haven with a snow blanket covering all you can see.
On the other hand, if you go there in summer, you’ll find the city has transformed into a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts!
If you’re planning a winter visit, discover 5 best ski resorts in Austria for beginners or the 6 highest ski resorts in Austria for a snow-sure getaway.
6. Riga, Latvia
Best for: Unlocking your talents
Top tour: Guided Old Town Walking Tour
Something about Eastern European cities really captivates the imagination, and Riga is no exception.
The capital of Latvia, Riga blends mediaeval charm and Art Nouveau splendour, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere.
The city was founded in 1201, and in its centre stands a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are also patterns of their soviet history, evident in some of the buildings in the capital, such as the Congress House.
Overall, the city has a cool, artistic vibe that fills the streets, cafes, and galleries with creative energy.
Discover more of the most affordable European city breaks.
7. Wroclaw in Poland
Best for: Whimsical adventure and family time
Top tour: Guided City Walk
Unlike the more popular Warsaw, the city of Wroclaw has a whimsical vibe mixed with a rich culture, making it hard to resist its charm.
To illustrate, did you know there are around 600 gnome sculptures hidden around the city? It’s true!
People often go there and make it an adventure where they simply walk around the city to find the gnomes!
I’d also recommend visiting Piwnica Świdnicka restaurant, built in 1273. For centuries, this restaurant has served its guests, including prominent ones like Chopin and Goethe!
8. Bergen in Norway
Best for: Natural Beauty
Top tour: Øygarden Islets Guided Kayaking Tour
For those longing to connect with nature’s deep blue water and greeneries, Bergen in Norway is the place to go.
Nestled between seven mountains and facing the Norwegian Sea, Bergen offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm.
Known as “the capital of the fjords,” Bergen offers an ideal starting point for exploring Norway’s famous fjords, including the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord!
9. Narbonne in France
Best for: Roman history and architecture
Top tour: Narbonne Private Guided Tour
Another of the most underrated European cities, Narbonne is a place that never lost its ancient charm.
Located in southern France, this hidden gem offers a captivating blend of Roman history, mediaeval architecture, and modern French culture.
The city’s centrepiece is the impressive Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur, an unfinished Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline.
Close by, the Archbishop’s Palace complex houses several museums, offering insights into the city’s long and captivating history.
The city isn’t only a stunning seaside resort, but a haven for any history lover out there.
10. Plovdiv in Bulgaria
Best for: Cultural diversity and ancient history
Top tour: Private City Walking Tour of the Old Town & Ancient Stadium
Plovdiv in Bulgaria is another perfect destination for history enthusiasts.
Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second-largest city and, most importantly, it’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
It’s situated between two huge mountain ranges on an important inland route, leading Plovdiv to be conquered many times by Thracians, Greeks, Romans, and others over time.
Of course, this meant that each civilisation left its artistic and cultural mark on the city.
To get a glimpse of it, you can head to its old town where you’ll find cobbled streets, revival-era townhouses, and the ruined fortress of Nebet Tepe!
So, which one of these underrated European cities do you want to visit? Honestly, if I were in your shoes, I’d pick more than one!
Let me know any of your own favourite underrated European cities in the comments below!
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