Travel Guides to Lesser-Known European Cities and Regions

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Strasbourg, Home of European Parliament by Thomas Dorgler on Unsplash.

Travel Notes: Destinations: City Guides - European Cities and Regions.

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Stating The Obvious

Europe is filled with hidden gems that often get overshadowed by the more famous capitals like London, Paris, and Rome. Try some of these for starters. Share on Facebook

European Destination Guide

Here’s a guide to some lesser-known cities and regions that are definitely worth a visit; each offering unique charm, culture, and experiences.

Exploring Off The Beaten Path in Europe

Making New Discoveries

Exploring the lesser-known cities and regions in Europe can provide a refreshing alternative to the usual tourist hotspots.

Each destination offers its own unique experiences, rich history, and vibrant culture, making them perfect for new discoveries on an off the beaten path adventure.

Adventures to Enjoy

Many hidden gems in Europe offer adventure possibilities, from hiking in the mountains of France and Switzerland to exploring the remote communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Cultural Immersion

Visiting smaller towns and cities allows for deeper cultural immersion. You can enjoy local cuisine, festivals, and traditions that are often missed in larger tourist centres.

Local Experiences

Engage in activities that are popular among locals, such as a barefoot walk through the forests in Germany. This not only allows you to connect with nature but also to experience the local culture in a unique way.

Travel in Europe

Travel in Europe can be a wonderful and enriching experience thanks to its diverse cultures, historic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes.

Where to Go in Europe

Destination Europe:
Whether you're looking for historical sites, vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes, or delicious cuisine, Europe has a lot to offer.

A

Albanian Riviera - (Albania):
With stunning beaches and a laid-back vibe, the Albanian Riviera is a fantastic alternative to the more crowded Mediterranean destinations. It offers beautiful landscapes and a chance to experience local traditions.

Andalucia - (Spain):
Andalusia is the southernmost autonomous community in Spain. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. The region is comprised of eight provinces: Almería, Cádiz, Córdoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaén, Málaga, and Seville, with Seville serving as its capital and largest city.

Andorra La Vella - (Andorra).

Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp City Guide - Belgium's Diamond-Studded Discovery - (Belgium):
Antwerp serves up medieval architecture and world-class museums alongside neighbourhood pubs, and enough diamonds to make the Crown Jewels jealous.

B

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast City Guide - Visiting Northern Ireland's Vibrant Capital - (United Kingdom):
Looking for a city break craic? Belfast delivers everything from world-class museums to legendary pubs, all wrapped up in genuine Northern Irish hospitality.

Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade City Guide - The Balkan Capital Refuses to Be Boring - (Serbia):
Online city guide for visitors to the capital of Serbia, where ancient fortresses meet legendary nightlife, hearty cuisine, and the warmest welcome in the Balkans.

Bergen, Norway

Bergen City Guide - Travel Handbook to Norway's Rainiest City - (Norway):
Discover why colourful wooden houses, world-class museums and dramatic fjord landscapes make Bergen the most captivating city in Norway; even in the rain.

Bern, Switzerland

Bern City Guide - Switzerland's Charmingly Understated Capital - (Switzerland):
Discover why location, medieval streets, quirky bear obsession, and laid-back Swiss charm make Bern the most delightfully unexpected capital city in Europe.

Biarritz - (France).

Bilbao - (Spain).

Black Forest, Germany

The Black Forest - Enchanted Wilderness Beyond Cuckoo Clocks - (Germany):
This sprawling region in south-western Germany serves up dense woodlands, fairy-tale villages, and some of the most compelling hiking trails in the country.

Bonn - (Germany).

Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux Travel Guide - Beyond the Vineyards City Break Menu - (France):
Bordeaux serves up architectural wonders, world-class culture, and yes, some rather decent wine - all wrapped up in a UNESCO World Heritage package.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava City Guide - Slovakia's Capital is a Best-Kept Secret - (Slovakia):
Bratislava has much to offer. With a rich history, the capital boasts attractions like the Bratislava Castle and charming streets filled with cafés and shops.

Brindisi - (Italy).

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges Travel Guide - Visiting Belgium's Fairytale Medieval City - (Belgium):
Often referred to as a mini-Amsterdam, Bruges is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and canals; a living medieval masterpiece time forgot.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels City Guide - Explore Top Attractions, Food and Culture - (Belgium):
Discover the best of Brussels from iconic landmarks and hidden gems to delicious Belgian cuisine and vibrant culture. Plan your Brussels visit with insider tips.

Bucharest - (Romania).

C

Calais - (France).

Canal du Midi, France

Canal du Midi - A Guide to France's Historic Waterway Adventure - (France):
Discover why this UNESCO World Heritage canal, a masterpiece of 17th-century engineering, is the best-kept secret for slow travel enthusiasts in France.

Champagne, France

Champagne Guide to Bubbles, Vineyards and Medieval Charm - (France):
The best times to visit are May to June and late summer, when Champagne houses offer tastings and tours. Cities to explore include Reims, Épernay, and Aÿ.

Cork, Republic of Ireland

Cork Travel Guide - Ireland's Rebel County Capital Unveiled - (Ireland):
Discover why Cork locals insist their city is the real capital of Ireland, and why you might just agree with them after visiting this charming southern emerald gem.

Costa del Sol - (Spain).

D

Dover - (United Kingdom):
Dover serves a vital ferry link between the UK and Europe. Originally known as Portus Dubris in Roman times, Dover is a historically rich and strategically important town in south-east England, known for its busy port, iconic white cliffs, and medieval fortress; constructed mainly during the reign of Henry II in the 12th century.

E

Essen - (Germany).

F

Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt Travel Guide to Modern Germany - Not Just the Airport - (Germany):
Most people only see Frankfurt through an airplane window or during a hurried airport transfer, but the financial powerhouse of Germany deserves another look.

French Riviera - (France):
Home to the glamorous ports and beaches of Antibes, Cannes, Cap-Ferrat, Juan-les-Pins, Nice, Saint-Tropez, and Villefranche-sur-Mer, the French Riviera, known ilocally as the Côte d'Azur, stretches along the Mediterranean coast of south-east France to Menton; near the Italian border. The coastline lies entirely within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France and includes the semi-enclave of Monaco.

G

Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow City Guide - Scotland's Creative Capital to Win You Over - (Scotland):
Forget the industrial reputation, Glasgow is quietly becoming one of the most compelling destinations in Europe; some say, the beating heart of Scotland.

Gothenburg - (Sweden).

Graz - (Austria):
Graz is often overshadowed by Vienna and Salzburg but offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern flair. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and attractions like the Kunsthaus Graz and the Murinsel showcase contemporary art and architecture. Graz is also known for its green spaces, making it a pleasant city to explore.

H

Hammerfest - (Norway):
Hammerfest is a town located in Finnmark county, Norway, on the north-western coast of the island of Kvaløya. It is known for its stunning Arctic landscapes and claims to be the northernmost city in the world, although this title is contested by the nearby town of Honningsvåg.

I

Isle of Wight - (United Kingdom):
The Isle of Wight is located off the south coast of England, separated from the mainland by the Solent strait. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring charming towns like Newport, Ryde, and Cowes to engaging in outdoor adventures such as sailing, hiking, and cycling.

Izmir, Turkey

Izmir Travel Guide - Turkey's Brilliant Coastal City, Not Istanbul - (Türkiye):
Forget the tourist crowds, Izmir is where ancient history meets modern Mediterranean vibes, and the locals have time to chat over proper Turkish coffee.

J

 

K

Kusadasi, Turkey

Kusadasi Guide to Turkey's Brilliant Aegean Coast Playground - (Türkiye):
Kusadasi might not roll off the tongue like Istanbul or Cappadocia, but this Turkish Riviera resort deserves serious consideration for your Mediterranean escape.

L

La Coruna, Spain

La Coruña City Guide - Spain's Best-Kept Atlantic Secret - (Spain):
Forget the Med crowds and discover why this windswept Galician port city is capturing hearts with its Roman lighthouse, glorious beaches, and fresh seafood.

Lake District, United Kingdom

Lake District - Guide to England's Most Beloved National Park - (United Kingdom):
Discover why millions of visitors fall head over heels for the Lake District. Dramatic fells, pristine lakes, charming villages, and insider tips to plan your trip.

Lausanne and Lake Geneva - (Switzerland):
Lausanne is located on the northern shore of Lake Geneva (known locally as Lac Léman), in the French-speaking canton of Vaud. Boasting a picturesque setting, nestled among hills and vineyards, with stunning views of the lake and the Alps, Lausanne is recognised as the Olympic Capital; hosting the International Olympic Committee and the famous Olympic Museum.

Le Havre - (France).

Leipzig - (Germany).

Lille - (France).

Ljubljana - (Slovenia):
Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a charming city with a relaxed vibe. Its car-free city center and picturesque Old Town make it perfect for leisurely exploration. The city was named Europe’s Green Capital in 2016, highlighting its eco-friendly initiatives and abundance of parks.

Loire Valley, France

The Loire - France's Royal Playground of Châteaux and Wine - (France):
Why settle for ordinary when you can sleep in a castle? The Loire Valley serves up fairy-tale châteaux, world-class wines, and Renaissance splendour.

Lugano - (Switzerland).

Luxembourg City - (Luxembourg).

Luzern - (Switzerland).

M

Maastricht - (Netherlands):
Maastricht is a lively student city known for its youthful vibe and beautiful architecture. It features tranquil parks and historical sites, including the Basilica of Saint Servatius. The city is also famous for being the birthplace of the Euro.

Malaga - (Spain).

Manchester - (United Kingdom).

Marino - (San Marino).

Marseille - (France).

Montpellier - (France).

Moselle, Germany

The Moselle - Germany's Wine Paradise Puts Tuscany to Shame - (Germany):
Fancy a real escape without fighting through crowds of selfie-stick wielding tourists? The Moselle Valley, in Germany, might just be the secret you need to know.

N

Nantes, France

Nantes - History Meets Innovation in France's Creative Capital - (France):
Discover Nantes, France's most inventive city where mechanical elephants roam, châteaux tower over trendy districts, and Loire Valley wines flow freely.

Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal Travel Guide - Far Away From The Algarve - (Portugal):
Far from crowded beaches and tourist traps Northern Portugal offers ancient cities, world-class wine, and authentic Portuguese culture without Algarve prices.

Norwegian Fjords - (Norway).

Nuremburg - (Germany).

O

 

P

Palermo - (Italy):
Founded in 734 BC by the Phoenicians, Palermo is the capital city of the autonomous region of Sicily. Located in the north-west of the island, Palermo blends significance with lively markets, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. It offers visitors a unique Mediterranean experience with a mix of cultural influences.

Patras - (Greece).

Perpignan - (France).

Pisa - (Italy).

Plymouth - (United Kingdom).

Provence - (France).

Q

 

R

Rhine River Castles - (Germany).

Riga - (Latvia):
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a stunning blend of history and modernity. Known for its Art Nouveau architecture, particularly along Alberta Street, Riga's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings. It remains one of the most affordable European capitals, making it a great destination for budget travellers.

Rijeka - (Croatia).

Rotterdam - (Netherlands).

S

Santiago de Compostela - (Spain).

Sarajevo - (Bosnia-Herzegovina):
Bosnia and Herzegovina is often overlooked but is rich in Ottoman architecture and stunning landscapes. It's an affordable destination that still remains relatively undiscovered by international tourists.

Sicily - (Italy).

Sighisoara - (Romania):
Known for its medieval charm, Sighisoara is a UNESCO World Heritage site that can be reached by a scenic train ride from Bucharest. Its cobbled streets and colourful buildings make it a picturesque stop.

Sofia - (Bulgaria).

Southampton - (United Kingdom).

Stavanger - (Norway)
Stavanger, located in south-western Norway, is known as the Oil Capital of Norway due to its significant role in the offshore energy sector. Stavanger was officially founded in 1125, marked by the completion of the Stavanger Cathedral; which is Norway's oldest cathedral.

Stockholm - (Sweden).

Strasbourg - (France).

Stuttgart - (Germany).

Swedish Islands - (Sweden):
Consider visiting some of Sweden's lesser-known islands, which provide a tranquil escape and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.

T

Tallin - (Estonia).

The Algarve - (Portugal).

The North of England - (United Kingdom).

The Scottish Highlands - (Scotland).

Thessalonki - (Greece):
Thessaloniki is a cultural hub with a rich history, offering a mix of ancient ruins and modern nightlife. The city's promenade is ideal for evening strolls, and it serves as a great base for day trips to nearby attractions like the Meteora monasteries. Its vibrant energy and historical significance make it a must-visit.

Toulouse - (France).

Transylvania - (Romania).

Trondheim - (Norway).
Trondheim is a historic port city located in central Norway. Originally known as Kaupangen, and later as Nidaros and Trondhjem, Trondheim was the capital during the Viking Age and is home to the Nidaros Cathedral, built over the tomb of Saint Olaf.

U

Utrecht - (Netherlands):
This city features unique canals with wharfs at water level, offering a different perspective compared to more famous Dutch cities like Amsterdam. It's a great place to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and local culture.

V

Vaasa - (Finland):
Vaasa is located on the west coast of Finland, specifically on the Gulf of Bothnia. Named after the Royal House of Vasa, the city was founded in 1606 and today serves as the regional capital of Ostrobothnia.

Valencia - (Spain).

Veneto - (Italy).

Versailles - (France).

Vilnius - (Lithuania):
Vilnius is the capital and largest city of Lithuania, as well as the most populous city in the Baltic states. Renowned for its Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old towns in Europe. the city has a rich multicultural history; having been home to diverse ethnic groups including Lithuanians, Poles, Jews, Germans, and Tatars.

W

Wachau - (Austria).

Z

Zaragoza - (Spain).

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