There’s so much more to Europe than just the big cities and landmarks. Go off the beaten track and discover some of Europe’s lesser-known cities, hidden towns and secret villages that are rich in natural beauty and history.
Grevenmacher is a picturesque town on the bank of the Moselle river, just across from Germany. It has an old-world feel with its 13th century belfry and medieval battlements, but it’s best known for its wineries.
Founded as an abbey in 698 AD by St. Willibrord, Echternach is still surrounded by its medieval walls and towers. Though the original abbey burned down, the Basilica of Echternach seen here was built in 1737 and still houses the remains of St. Willibrord.
Home to Estonia’s oldest university, Tartu is an intellectual hub of eastern Europe. It has an eclectic-yet-charming mix of architecture due to its sovereignty changing hands throughout the years.
Named a Capital of Culture in 2007 by the European Union, Sibiu is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Romania. Walk down the historic Stairs Passage that links the two sides of the city.
The westernmost town in Estonia, Kuressaare on Saaremaa island retains its medieval charm, with Kuressaare Castle as its centerpoint.
Kotor has rapidly become a popular destination for visitors on cruise ships. The region of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with much of the medieval city still preserved.
The area now occupied by Pécs has been occupied since ancient times, and has remainders from Roman, medieval and Ottoman periods. It’s varied architecture and historical sites make it a must-visit.
The European Capital of Culture in 2013 , Kosice is home to many well preserved Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings. The gothic cathedral of St. Elisabeth Cathedral , one of the major landmarks in Kosice, dates back to 1230.
Nicknamed “City of the Tsars,” Veliko Tarnovo was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. It’s known for its impressive renaissance churches and other historical buildings and landmarks.
Hallstatt existed as a settlement some several thousand years ago as an area for salt production. Today it’s an idyllic lakeside village.
A traditional fishing village on the Mediterranean island of Malta, one of Marsaxlokk’s major attractions is its fresh fish market. Grab a bite to eat straight from the sea.
Nestled between the Neris and Nemunas rivers, Kaunas is one of the most scenic cities in Lithuania. Its old town is home to some stunning Gothic and Renaissance-style architecture.
Established by the Scordisci people in 279 BC and with evidence for neolithic settlements as far back as 2,000 BC, Niš is one of the oldest cities in the Balkans. Not much remains from those days, but churches and other historic buildings still stand from as far back as the 4th century.
In 2021, eleven amazing spa towns in seven European countries were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a ‘transnational serial’ World Heritage Site, called the “Great Spa Towns of Europe”. These towns, in Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom represent a unique cultural achievement and urban form which was at its height from the late 18th century to the 1930s.
You’re probably already familiar with the big-time European wine producers of France, Italy and Spain. But there are many more wines to discover in the rest of the continent – and they’re as drinkable as they are affordable. Get to know six lesser-known European wine regions that are just begging to be explored.
Europe is full of iconic sites and landmarks. From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to flower fields of the Netherlands, there’s always something new and exciting to see. In this gallery, you’ll find just some of the must-see landmarks scattered throughout Europe in this gallery. Get to know a little about them here so you know which ones to add to your trip itinerary.
Europe’s vast landscapes create some breathtaking views. And some of the most awe-inspiring views in Europe occur where cliffs meet the water. From Ireland to Greece, picture-perfect spots can be found tucked away from everything else. Enjoy eight of the best European views right here in this photo gallery. Then, see them for yourself on your next trip.
CHECK OUT OUR
LATEST GUIDE
There are many varieties of šljivovica (a distilled beverage made from plums) in Serbia. What is common is the scent of plums, a golden colour and the Central Serbia intoxicating power of a strong liquor. Less alcoholic, but no less tasty, is a drink prepared from šljivovica when the weather is cold. During winter, when a slava (the feast day of a family’s patron saint) is celebrated, the drink of choice is Šumadija tea or mulled plum brandy.
A visit to Europe is unforgettable in itself, but people often find themselves dreaming about all the delicious foods they tried, long after they’ve returned. From sweet to salty and every flavor in between, fondly remember your trip when you bring home a taste of Europe.
Europe is the home of some of classical music’s most famous maestros. Today, travelers can experience the sweeping, exhilarating and emotional sounds of the world’s well-known classical music pieces in museums, concert halls and at classical music festivals. Listen and enjoy the suites, cantatas and concertos from the masters of sound and learn about the life and times of Europe’s amazing composers.
Set out on a nature adventure in Finland’s Nuuksio National Park.
Enjoy Czechia’s folkloric customs!
