When you hear the words “Europe” and “travel” together, you often think of the usual cities—Paris, Rome, London… And that’s totally fine! These places, after all, are among the most-visited cities in the world! However, Europe is a continent teeming with art, history, culture, and even natural wonders that stretch far beyond these popular areas.
So if you’re keen on visiting Europe and wish to bring home stories from lesser-known destinations, read up as we list down 20 underrated European gems to add to your travel bucket list!
Graz, Austria
Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is a treasure trove of architectural marvels and culinary delights. Showcasing Renaissance and Baroque buildings, it’s a city that will certainly charm both history and architecture geeks. Graz is also renowned for its dynamic art scene and its designation as a UNESCO City of Design.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Top Activities: Explore the historic Schlossberg, stroll through the Kunsthaus Graz, and savor Styrian specialties, such as cheese, truffles, as well as strong and fruity spirits, at the farmer’s market.
Bristol, United Kingdom
If you are a huge music fan, it’s impossible for you to *not* know about Bristol. This city thrives on creativity and innovation, offering visitors an eclectic mix of street art, maritime heritage, and a buzzing music scene you most likely wouldn’t get anywhere else in the UK.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Top Activities: Visit the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, explore the SS Great Britain, and take a Banksy street art tour. Music lovers should definitely consider timing their trip around music festivals.
Utrecht, The Netherlands
Often overshadowed by its upbeat and popular sibling Amsterdam, Utrecht is a picturesque city known for its winding canals, historic buildings, and lively cafes that are sure to charm anyone. Its compact size and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a laid back getaway.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
- Top Activities: Climb the Dom Tower, check out a massive self-playing musical instrument collection at Museum Speelklok, and visit the Rietveld Schröder House. For massive fans of Miffy (Nijntje), Utrecht is actually the hometown of Dutch author Dick Bruna—the creator of the well-loved bunny. So if you ever find yourself in Utrecht, don’t miss taking the chance to visit the Nijntje Museum to learn more about the character and get hold of some unique souvenirs.
Bergen, Norway
Nestled between towering mountains and deep fjords, Bergen is a city that celebrates its rich maritime history and breathtaking natural surroundings. Its colorful wooden houses and lively cultural scene make it a must-visit for travelers with an adventurous spirit and a heart for some quaint scenery.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Top Activities: Take a fjord cruise, ride the Fløibanen funicular, and wander through the historic Bryggen district.
Brno, Czech Republic
Prague may be the most-talked-about city in Czechia, but Brno is definitely a place you shouldn’t miss! Comparably more chill than the ever-busy Praha, this charming city in the Moravian region is bustling with a youthful vibe—thanks to the many universities situated in the area. It flaunts gothic cathedrals, modern architecture, and a jovial drinking culture. European literature lovers will also recognize this city as celebrated author Milan Kundera’s birthplace.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Top Activities: Lay out a mat on the green grounds of Špilberk Castle and have a nice picnic; explore the functionalist architectural standout Villa Tugendhat; and bar-hop, trying out various beers and Moravian wine.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Lithuania in itself is an underrated European destination, so don’t be surprised to find its capital on this list! A city of baroque beauty that stood the test of time and conflict, Vilnius is certainly a historical marvel waiting to be explored. Its medieval Old Town, quirky art districts, and burgeoning food scene are its biggest draws, although you will also fall in love with the people’s warmth despite the city’s dipping temperatures in the cold months.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Top Activities: Stroll through the medieval Old Town, visit the Uzupis art district, and climb Gediminas Hill for panoramic views.
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn, Estonia’s enchanting capital, offers visitors the magic of medieval architecture through its storied cobblestone streets and well-preserved Old Town. Surprisingly, it also has a thriving tech culture, making it a rising star in Europe’s tech scene.
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
- Top Activities: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Town, visit Kadriorg Palace, and explore the hip Telliskivi Creative City.
Girona, Spain
While Spain’s poster children are Madrid and Barcelona, Girona—a historic Catalonian city—captivates visitors with its ancient city walls, colorful buildings, and delectable cuisine. Its proximity to the sparkling Costa Brava makes it all the more a must-visit destination.
- Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to November
- Top Activities: Walk along the ancient city walls, visit the Jewish Quarter, and savor Catalan cuisine.
Zagreb, Croatia
Croatia’s lively capital Zagreb is where the elegance of its Austro-Hungarian past meets contemporary creativity. Dotted with quirky museums, bustling markets, and friendly locals, it offers a welcoming and culturally rich experience—sans the crazy crowds in top European cities.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Top Activities: Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships—a baroque palace, where you can find a huge collection of personal objects from former lovers. After reading heartbreaking love stories, explore the Upper Town, and enjoy people-watching in Maksimir Park.
Porto, Portugal
Porto, a coastal city in northern Portugal, puts a spell on visitors with its riverside charm, historic landmarks, and spectacular wine. You can wander through its busy and hushed alleyways or admire the cityscape from a cable car.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Top Activities: Tour the Douro Valley, visit Livraria Lello, and enjoy a river cruise on the Douro. Cap off your day by treating yourself to some good wine.
Skagen, Denmark
Situated at the northern tip of Denmark, Skagen is not a city, but a town that offers a serene escape. It is best known for its striking natural beauty, particularly its magical display of the Northern Lights. Skagen brings a coastal retreat to anyone seeking some tranquil time while enjoying the wonders of nature.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September or January to early March for the Northern Lights
- Top Activities: Visit the Skagen Museum, explore Grenen (where two seas meet), and relax on white sandy beaches.
Troodos, Cyprus
Known as the largest mountain range in Cyprus, the Troodos region offers a lush escape into Cyprus’ scenic interior, where charming villages, ancient monasteries, and verdant landscapes await. It’s another ideal spot for European nature adventurers.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November
- Top Activities: Explore the UNESCO-listed Painted Churches; slip into your hiking boots and take the Caledonia Trail, and visit the picture-perfect wine village of Omodos.
Colmar, France
Step into a fairytale world of bright-colored half-timbered houses, flower-lined canals, and exquisite wines in this gem in the Alsace region. Close to the border with Germany, it also flaunts a Gothic 13th-century church right at its center.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Top Activities: Stroll through Little Venice, visit the Unterlinden Museum, and enjoy wine tasting in the region.
Bologna, Italy
Bologna—often referred to as “La Grassa” or “the fat one”—is a culinary paradise steeped in history. With its medieval towers, iconic porticoes, and vibrant energy, it’s a city that stimulates all the senses. Looking for a great place to go food-tripping in Europe? Bologna should be on your radar!
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Top Activities: Climb the Asinelli Tower, explore Piazza Maggiore, and indulge in traditional Bolognese cuisine.
Chios, Greece
Skip the ever-touristy Santorini and head on over to Chios. An island on the Aegean Sea, it offers a peaceful retreat known for its medieval villages, mastic (resin) production, and pristine beaches. It’s an authentic Greek experience far from the crowds.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Top Activities: Visit the medieval village of Pyrgi, relax on Mavra Volia Beach, and tour the mastic groves.
Eger, Hungary
Eger, a historic town in northern Hungary, is the perfect day trip destination from Budapest. Take a 1.5-hour trip from the capital, and you’ll be able to marvel at Eger’s magnificent churches, take a dip in thermal Turkish baths, and have a taste of its world-class wines. If you’re looking for a luxe vacay without actually breaking your budget, this is the place to go!
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
- Top Activities: Explore Eger Castle, relax in the thermal baths, and sample wines in the Valley of the Beautiful Women (yes, it really is named like that and it’s among Hungary’s top wine regions!).
Gdańsk, Poland
A vibrant port city on Poland’s Baltic coast, Gdańsk has a nice old town surrounded by colorful buildings—some reconstructed after the Second World War. Today, many of these buildings house souvenir shops and restaurants that serve local specialties. If you’re up for some exploration, get lost in a maze of narrow streets lined by milk bars and, yes, more restaurants!
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Top Activities: Stroll down Long Market, visit the Museum of the Second World War, and cool down on the beaches of Sopot.
Killaloe, Ireland
Killaloe in east County Clare is a picturesque village on the River Shannon that offers a delightful mix of lush landscapes, history, and warm Irish hospitality. It offers an idyllic escape into Ireland’s countryside.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Top Activities: Cruise on Lough Derg, visit St. Flannan’s Cathedral, and explore the nearby Clare Glens.
Wengen, Switzerland
Ever since the hit K-Drama series “Crash Landing On You” aired, Switzerland has become a dream destination for many (more than it’s ever been!). If you’re a fan of the show, make sure to stop by Wengen after taking a pilgrimage around the show’s filming locations. This car-free village in the Swiss Alps is a breathtaking haven for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by majestic peaks, it’s the perfect base for outdoor adventures and alpine scenery.
- Best Time to Visit: June to September for hiking or December to March for skiing
- Top Activities: Ride the Jungfrau Railway, hike to Kleine Scheidegg, and enjoy alpine skiing.
From historic towns to scenic mountain retreats, these underrated European destinations promise unique and memorable adventures in 2025. Once you’ve got your trip sorted out, make sure to book your travel Wi-Fi device on Big Sky Nation—the Philippines’ #1 travel connectivity provider based on countless user reviews!
Check out your options here now!
***Featured image by author
