Go offbeat for more adventure

Believe us when we say, the best of Europe has yet to be discovered. No, this is not hyperbole! When you go for offbeat itineraries that prioritize authentic interactions and experiences and new perspectives, there is a whole new world that, once you explore it, will live with you for the rest of your life. In this article, we’ll show you how to swap the hotspots for hidden gems, access untold stories, and reveal a version of Europe that’s entirely new.

Before we dive into the places where you can step off the beaten path and be forever changed, let’s discuss why this matters. Did you know that  at peak times, visitors to Europe substantially outnumber locals? What’s more, about half of long-haul visits to Europe were concentrated in just a few destinations? Swapping these hotspots is good for everyone. For you, doing so means delving into Europe’s real culture in untouched places, opting for deeper understanding and appreciation of people’s unique ways of life. Just as enticing, when you visit places without the crowds, you get the chance to connect with the locals in a deeper level, gaining a genuine understanding of perspectives, culture and heritage. Without the crowds, the pressure vanishes, and people will greet you with warmth and openness as a person, not as another tourist on the same well-trodden route. Don’t be surprised if you get invited into locals’ homes for a hot meal or slice of cake. And finally, going offbeat also means more efficient costs. Peak season in peak destinations is never good for your wallet. Don’t you want to do more for less?

Why would locals greet you so warmly, you ask? Because when you travel responsibly, they benefit. For them, your going offbeat means relieving the pressure on hotspots and their communities, reducing crowds and helping to extend the vital resources they rely on, such as water, energy, and infrastructure. It also has economic benefits, spreading wealth across a single country or region and helping foster resilience broadly rather than in a single concentrated locale.

So, what kinds of experiences can you have when you follow this approach? Here are just a few ideas out of the thousands that exist. To escape the stress and the people and still get that epic Greek island journey of soft beaches, unforgettable views, and beautiful villages, try Syros. Šibenik is where you can have a true Croatian adventure: it pulses with local life and heritage yet lacks the hordes of visitors. You’ve surely heard of the Venetian canals, but what about those in Gdańsk? The best view of this city of unique and spectacular beauty is from a boat on one of its winding canals. If you’re looking for a quieter slice of the Netherlands, Leiden is the perfect hidden gem to be discovered, offering the same canals and Dutch vibes as Amsterdam but without the crowds. Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is stilloff the beaten path, with its UNESCO-listed historic center, still remaining free from the typical tourist crowds. Want more inspiration about offbeat experiences in Europe? Click here!