How to find hidden Gems in Europe

Oppressive tourist crowds got you down? Me too! Tired of tourist trap destinations? Indeed! Perhaps it’s time to start seeking out those hidden gems that make for a truly special and personalized travel experience. But how to find those oftentimes elusive hidden gems in Europe?

Before we discuss how to find hidden gems in Europe, what exactly are they? Hidden Gems allow you to slow down the pace and savor a destination! You’ll spend more time immersing yourself in the culture, and less time standing in line or making your way through tight knit crowds!

These places are less “peopley” and more likely to feed your soul. Quaint towns and villages, cobbled streets, old and ancient structures, stunning natural beauty, quiet candlelit pubs, restaurants and cafes that draw in locals because they’re serving tasty delights of local fare. These are the things we crave and I’m going to tell you how to find them!

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Use this list of tips to find hidden gems in Europe!

How to find Hidden Gems in Europe

Here are my best tips for finding them:

Use Local Guides

Local guides are in the business of knowing their city, town, or small village inside and out. You can save yourself a ton of research and hassle by utilizing the services of a local guide. You’ll find all manner of tours available, from walking tours to driving tours, bike tours, Segway tours, pub crawls, food tours and even sidecar scooter tours! I recommend you sign up for a tour and let the expert guide you to those lesser-known corners! My favorite place to book tours is on Get Your Guide, start searching now!

Why I like Get Your Guide: They often offer free cancellations and book now pay later options! (Always read reviews before booking a tour.)

Atlas Obscura

Atlas Obscura is an entire website dedicated to unusual and obscure travel destinations! It’s their business to help you find the most unique and most underrated places in Europe! I’ve noticed they have taken to adding super popular tourist attractions as well as the obscure, so you may have to do a little digging to find the less visited sites. Your reward, tips on where to find odd museums, macabre attractions, and all manner of interesting spectacles! One of the best things about the site, they even have a map view feature!

One of my favorite Atlas Obscura finds is the Devil’s Bridge / Rakotzbrücke in Germany

Trace your route on Google Maps

Friends, this is where I have found some of our absolute best destinations and it’s so easy! Here’s what you do: plug your intended route into google maps. Zoom in a bit and look for tourist attractions along the way! If you’re on a PC you can hover over the symbol to see photos of the attraction, on a smartphone click the symbol.

This works great if you’re planning a road trip but if you are determined, it works for train and bus travel too! Pro tip: Google usually give you a choice of routes so make sure you check all the route options. It may be worth going a little out of your way for a worthwhile stop.

Here are some of the symbols you’ll want to explore (see the associated symbol in the photo):

• hiking trails
• churches and cathedrals
• mountains
• attractions (zoos, museums, etc.)
• parks
• monuments
• castles
• beaches
• golf courses

Facebook groups for insider information

Facebook Groups are a great place to find off the beaten path recommendations. Join travel groups for your destination and ask! “Where are your favorite secret spots in …” People love to share what they know!

My favorite social media find is Berggasthaus Aescher, Ebenalp Switzerland. You can get all of the details on how to visit this fabulous attraction in my “Stunning Wasserauen Ebenalp Switzerland: how to see it!” article.

Ask a local

No one knows where the true treasures are like the people who live there. As you travel around the country, ask a local for insider tips such as “what’s your favorite thing to do in the area?” “your favorite place to eat?” etc! We found a wonderful rustic historic restaurant when visiting Stirling Castle in Ireland by asking one of the castle guards for a recommendation for a unique dining experience.

When our travel plans didn’t go as expected in Slovenia and we needed something to fill our time, the gas station attendant directed us to a fabulous historic village. We had it all to ourselves that day!

If possible build some time into your itinerary for the best attractions recommended by locals. It may just be the most memorable thing you do on your trip!

Get lost, find yourself!

This is a personal favorite of mine. When I lived in Germany as a child some of my best memories come from when we got a little lost. Allow yourself to wander aimlessly. Some of the best secret spots and natural wonders are often stumbled upon by chance. If you’re lucky, something magical may appear around that next corner! And you just may find yourself in the process! So get out of the city center and explore the lesser-know neighborhoods.

Get a Rick Steves Guide

I plan all my trips to Europe with Rick Steves travel guides, the best European travel guides on the market! I wouldn’t even attempt to plan a trip without one. Rick covers the most popular cities and tourist attractions. But he doesn’t stop there. He also includes what he likes to call “back door” travel which includes European hidden gems and off the beaten track destinations! So, if you are looking for underrated European cities Rick has you covered.

Local events and festivals

Attending a festival is a little counterintuitive for people in search of hidden gems but hear me out! Yes, Oktoberfest in Germany and Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are ridiculously popular. However, there are tons of lesser-known local festivals and events that aren’t as popular, are less crowded, and draw in the local crowd. It may just be the best time to visit and you’ll have a “different” experience when you are one of the few outsiders. Attend a small town festival to feel like a local!

Once, I inadvertently booked an overnight stay in the magical yet very touristy and often very crowded small town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber during their Imperial City Festival. I abhor crowds but it turned out to be an absolute joy! Amazingly, there seemed to be less tourists and more locals. Find local festivals by visiting the city’s official website or simply Google “events in…”

Blogs

Blogs are a great way to get intel from someone who has been there! Let them do the work for you! Here is a selection of my favorite hidden gems!

Where to find Hidden Gems in Europe

Let’s talk about the best places (locations) to find a hidden gem.

choose one of the less popular countries in Europe

Europe is the most visited continent in the world! (Source: World Atlas.) Some countries really attract the tourists, while others get a smaller share of the international visitors. They fly under the radar but offer unending under the radar destinations. Choose one of those! (In general, western Europe is more touristed than Eastern Europe.)

Some of the MOST visited countries in Europe include:

• France
• Spain
• Turkey
• Italy
• Greece
• Austria
• Germany
• Portugal
• United Kingdom
• Netherlands

Different countries that are LEAST VISITED and the most underrated places in Europe include the following:

• Belgium
• Switzerland
• Sweden
• Slovenia
• Finland
• Iceland
• Czechia
• Denmark
• Ireland
• Norway

(Source: UNWTO, World Tourism Organization)

Visit lesser-known museums

You can find a respite from the crowds even in some of Europe’s biggest cities. Crowds flock to popular museums like the Louvre in Paris and the National Gallery in London. However these cities have many other interesting museums such as the Museum of Vampires in Paris, and the The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities in London.

Most towns offer a variety of lesser-known museums. To find a complete list of museums in your destination, Google “museums in…” and check out the Trip Advisor results, or navigate your way to the official website for the city. They usually have a complete list of museums. And don’t forget to check Atlas Obscura!

tip: Headed to Rothenburg ob der Tauber? Well I can confirm that this town is very popular with tourists BUT also worth it! However, you’ll find Rothenburg’s museums blissfully uncrowded since most people come to see the adorable village itself. Here’s a complete list of the museums in Rothenburg.

food tours for local hot spots

Food tours often explore less touristy hidden culinary gems popular with locals.

“With food tours you get a little tour of the city plus get to try small portions of the famous local dishes, so you don’t have to buy everything just to find out if you do or don’t like it. I’d highly recommend it.”

-Angie Marie, my adventurous sister-in-law who loves to travel!

Food tours can be booked on Get Your Guide (Always read reviews before booking tours.)

Europe is filled with lesser-known destinations that offer travelers a chance to experience rich history, stunning architecture, and charming atmospheres away from the tourist crowds.

While you’ll find these hidden-gems in each country in Europe, here are some examples of lesser-known places:

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, is a picturesque town, often overshadowed by Prague. Discover the beautifully preserved old town filled with narrow streets and cobblestone paths, transporting visitors back to the Middle Ages. The town’s highlight is its grand medieval castle, perched on a hill overlooking the winding Vltava River and surrounded by colorful houses. Exploring the town’s main square and its baroque architecture are a joy!

colmar, France

While it’s not exactly tourist free, Colmar is a lot less touristed than Paris! The historic town of Colmar is located in the Alsace region and boasts picturesque canals and timber-framed medieval architecture, giving it a storybook feel. The main street and city centre are lined with shops and cafes, and the entire city is an easy short walk from other sites in town.

tip: If you are adverse to crowds, DO NOT go to Colmar during the Christmas Market season! However it is a magical place at Christmas and if you want to brave the crowds you will want to check out this Alsace Christmas Market itinerary.

Evora, Portugal

Evora, a small city in Portugal, is a treasure trove of history, with Roman ruins and well-preserved medieval architecture at every turn. The town’s main square is surrounded by whitewashed buildings, and its tiny town charm makes it a peaceful retreat. Evora offers visitors a glimpse of baroque churches, Gothic cathedrals, and even an ancient Roman temple.

Piran, Slovenia

Piran is another beautiful city that often flies under the radar. This historic city, located on the coast, is known for its Venetian-style architecture and labyrinth of narrow streets leading to a stunning main square overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Unlike the capital city of Ljubljana, the well-preserved medieval town of Piran remains a lesser-known destination.

Aosta, Italy

Located in the Aosta Valley near the Italian Alps, Aosta is a charming town with Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Though it’s close to popular ski resorts, Aosta itself is a quiet, less-visited destination perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Goriška Brda, Slovenia

Known as Slovenia’s “Tuscany,” Goriška Brda is a hidden gem surrounded by vineyards and rolling green hills. This town, nestled in the country’s wine region near the Italian border, is an ideal spot for foodies and wine lovers who want to enjoy the region’s rich culinary traditions in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Tarnów, Poland

Tarnów, often overshadowed by Krakow, is a beautifully preserved town in southern Poland. With its medieval market square, Renaissance town hall, and charming old town, Tarnów offers a fascinating mix of Polish and Jewish history without the heavy tourist crowds. It’s a quiet alternative to more popular Polish cities.

Pozzallo, Sicily, Italy

Pozzallo is a coastal town in southern Sicily that remains under the radar compared to tourist-heavy spots like Taormina or Palermo. Known for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere, Pozzallo is perfect for those seeking a relaxed seaside escape without the usual Sicilian crowds.

Laufenburg, Germany/Switzerland

Straddling the border between Germany and Switzerland, Laufenburg is a charming medieval town split by the Rhine River. With half of the town in Germany and the other half in Switzerland, Laufenburg offers a unique experience, combining both cultures in one small, picturesque town that remains mostly untouched by mass tourism.

Ohrid, North Macedonia

Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage site but still feels like a hidden gem. This town, nestled along the shores of Lake Ohrid, is known for its crystal-clear waters, Byzantine churches, and cobbled streets. Despite its stunning beauty and historical significance, Ohrid is still less visited than many European lake towns.

Berat, Albania

Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is a lesser-known destination in Albania. Its Ottoman-era architecture, narrow streets, and hilltop castle make it a picturesque town with a rich history, but it remains largely untouched by mass tourism, offering an authentic Albanian experience.

Zug, Switzerland

While Switzerland’s larger cities and famous ski resorts attract plenty of visitors, Zug remains a tranquil hidden gem. Located on the shores of Lake Zug, this town offers beautiful lakeside views, historic architecture, and access to the surrounding green hills and Swiss Alps without the crowds typical of Switzerland’s more famous destinations.

Anghiari, Italy

Tucked away in Tuscany, Anghiari is a medieval town perched on a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Unlike nearby towns like Florence or Siena, Anghiari offers a quiet, authentic Tuscan experience with its narrow streets, artisan shops, and small cafes where you can enjoy traditional Italian life.

Sighișoara, Romania

Sighișoara, located in the heart of Transylvania, is a beautifully preserved medieval town known for its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture. Though it’s the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula), the town is much less touristy than larger cities like Bucharest or Brasov, making it an enchanting, quiet destination.

explore the great outdoors

This one is for nature lovers! Ditch the crowds and find a bit of breathing room out on the hiking trail, at the lake or river, in the mountains and forests, on an island, or even by the sea! I like to search for hiking trails on Komoot when traveling in Europe, or use Google Maps to locate trails and other nature attractions. Zoom in and start exploring!

National Parks are great but they are often really crowded. There’s nothing “hidden” about them. An alternative to the popular National Parks are nature parks (probably what we would refer to as a state park in the US.) They haven’t garnered a “national park” designation. However, they are still worthwhile. To find a nature park just Google “nature parks in….”

I found this little hidden gem in Austria by following our route on Google Maps.

another of my favorite hidden gems: the Black Valley, Ireland

head for the coast

To discover less touristed spots in Europe, head for the coast, for pristine beaches and some of the most beautiful places on the continent! Make your travel destination a coastal town or seaside resort. You’ll experience stunning vistas and sandy beaches and during the summer months high prices and hoards of crowds! So be sure to plan your trip during the off season when crowds disperse and prices fall.

These beautiful beaches are perfect for outdoor activities like snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking, or simply resting, relaxing and rejuvenating.
Europe is home to an incredible variety of beaches, each offering unique experiences across its diverse coastlines. There’s a beach to suit every type of traveler!

Popular European Coastal Regions include places like:

Southern Europe

The Mediterranean Sea coast is known for its warm, calm waters and stunning sandy beaches. Destinations like the Amalfi Coast in Italy, the French Riviera, and Spain’s Costa Brava are famous for their glamorous seaside resorts and crystal-clear waters. Greece and Croatia offer pristine beaches dotted with islands, such as Myrtos Beach on Kefalonia and Zlatni Rat on Brač, ideal for both relaxation and water sports.

Cala Trebalúger, Menorca, Spain
Menorca is known for its beautiful coastline, Cala Trebalúger is one of the island’s best-kept secrets. This remote, pristine beach is surrounded by pine forests and crystal-clear waters. Accessible only by boat or a scenic hike, Cala Trebalúger remains largely undiscovered by tourists.

Aliko Beach, Naxos, Greece
On the southwest coast of the Greek island of Naxos, Aliko Beach has soft white sand, turquoise waters, and striking cedar forests. This beach is part of a nature reserve, keeping it undeveloped and peaceful, far from the busy tourist hubs found on more famous Greek islands like Mykonos or Santorini.

Plage de Saleccia, Corsica, France
Plage de Saleccia, located in northern Corsica, is one of the island’s most beautiful yet least visited beaches. Its remote location, reachable only by 4×4 or boat, keeps crowds at bay. With its white sand, clear blue waters, and surrounding pine forests, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking natural beauty and solitude.

Playa del Silencio, Asturias, Spain
Nestled in Spain’s northern Asturias region, Playa del Silencio (Beach of Silence) offers breathtaking cliffs and calm waters. Unlike the tourist-heavy beaches of Spain’s southern coast, this secluded beach provides a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Atlantic and rugged, untouched scenery.

Voidokilia Beach, Peloponnese, Greece
Voidokilia Beach on the Peloponnese Peninsula is often overlooked by tourists visiting nearby islands. Its shallow, clear waters and unique shape make it one of Greece’s most visually striking beaches, ideal for swimming and relaxation.

Šunj Beach, Lopud Island, Croatia
Lopud Island, part of the Elaphiti Islands near Dubrovnik, is home to Šunj Beach—a sandy, gently sloping beach perfect for families. Though Dubrovnik can be quite touristy, Lopud Island and Šunj Beach are far more peaceful, offering a quiet escape with beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.

The Atlantic coast

On the Atlantic coast, Portugal’s Algarve region features dramatic cliffs and secluded coves, while the vast beaches of Biarritz in France attract surfers from around the world.

Praia de Odeceixe, Portugal
Located on the Algarve’s quieter west coast, Praia de Odeceixe is a stunning beach framed by dramatic cliffs and sand dunes. Unlike the busy southern Algarve beaches, Odeceixe remains off the beaten path and perfect for a tranquil beach day.

Praia da Ilha de Tavira, Portugal
On the southern coast of Portugal, near the town of Tavira, this beach is located on a small island in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Accessible only by boat, Praia da Ilha de Tavira remains relatively undiscovered compared to the crowded beaches of the Algarve. It offers soft sand, warm waters, and a quiet, laid-back atmosphere.

The Baltic and Northern European Beaches:

The Baltic and Northern European beaches, like those in Germany, Denmark, and Sweden, are perfect for summer getaways, offering long, sandy stretches and peaceful natural beauty.

Rauðisandur Beach, Iceland
For a truly unique beach experience, head to Rauðisandur Beach in Iceland’s remote Westfjords region. This vast stretch of red and golden sand is set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and the icy Atlantic Ocean. Unlike Iceland’s more famous black sand beaches, Rauðisandur is virtually free of tourists.

Ireland and the UK

The beaches of Ireland and the UK are wild, windy, and wonderfully scenic. Cliffside areas surrounding the beaches are perfect for watching stunningly blue waters crash against ancient rocks. While you likely won’t be interested in swimming, these are worth visiting in the off season for their breathtaking landscapes and spectacular views. Consider a boat tour on the Wild Atlantic or a blissful walk along the coast!

Plan an island Getaway

Europe’s island paradises are often synonymous with bustling tourist hotspots, but there are still many destinations that remain relatively untouched. Islands can be more difficult to reach by public transport, which can me fewer crowds. These lesser-known islands offer breathtaking landscapes, unique cultures, and a peaceful retreat from the usual crowds.

Here are some of Europe’s best-kept island secrets!

Paxos, Greece

While its famous neighbor Corfu draws large crowds, Paxos remains a tranquil haven in the Ionian Sea. Accessible only by boat, this small island is known for its crystal-clear waters, olive groves, and charming villages. The absence of mass tourism means you can explore pristine beaches, such as Voutoumi and Monodendri, and enjoy fresh seafood in the traditional tavernas of Gaios.

vis, Croatia

One of Croatia’s most remote islands, Vis has managed to maintain its untouched beauty. It was a military base for decades, preventing tourism from booming, but this isolation has preserved its authenticity. With its rugged coastline, hidden caves, and quiet beaches like Stiniva, Vis offers a serene escape. The island also has a rich history, with remnants of ancient Greek and Roman settlements to explore.

Ponza, Italy

Tucked away in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ponza is a lesser-known alternative to the crowded Amalfi Coast. The island is famous for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and grottoes, including the famed Blue Grotto. With no large resorts and limited transport, Ponza remains an off-the-beaten-path paradise for those seeking a relaxing Mediterranean getaway.

Isle of Tiree, Scotland

For a wilder, more rugged adventure, head to the Isle of Tiree in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. Known for its stunning white sand beaches and excellent conditions for windsurfing, Tiree is one of the sunniest places in Scotland.

Faial, Portugal

Part of the Azores archipelago, Faial is an island of volcanic beauty and lush greenery. While the Azores are becoming more popular, Faial is still relatively under the radar. The island is famous for the Capelinhos Volcano, a lunar-like landscape formed after an eruption in 1957.

La Graciosa, Spain

Just off the northern coast of Lanzarote, La Graciosa is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets. As the least developed of the Canary Islands, La Graciosa offers an escape from mass tourism. With no paved roads, the island is perfect for cycling, hiking, and discovering secluded beaches like Playa de las Conchas.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

A remote and mysterious destination in the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands are perfect for those seeking dramatic, unspoiled nature. The archipelago’s rugged cliffs, fjords, and grass-roofed cottages offer some of the most striking scenery in Europe. Whether exploring the peaceful village of Gjógv or hiking to the iconic waterfall at Gasadalur, the Faroe Islands feel worlds away from the typical tourist circuit. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the islands’ puffin colonies and diverse wildlife.

Achill Island, Ireland

Achill Island, Ireland’s largest island, is a true hidden gem off the western coast of County Mayo. Wild and windswept, it is known for its stunning Atlantic views, secluded beaches, and historic sites like the Deserted Village.

Keem Bay, often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, offers crystal-clear waters, while the island’s rugged mountains and rolling hills make it a paradise for hikers. Achill provides a unique blend of Irish culture and untamed beauty, far from the hustle of more famous spots like the Aran Islands.

consider a mountain retreat

Europe is home to some of the world’s most iconic mountain ranges, but many of its most breathtaking spots remain off the beaten path. If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in serene, untouched landscapes, here are some lesser-known mountain gems to explore:

Val d’Anniviers, Switzerland

While the Swiss Alps attract millions of visitors each year, Val d’Anniviers remains a quieter alternative. Tucked away in the canton of Valais, this hidden valley is surrounded by towering peaks, including the Weisshorn and Dent Blanche, offering dramatic alpine views without the bustling ski crowds.

The surrounding area is dotted with charming traditional villages like Grimentz and Zinal, where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing while soaking in the region’s rustic charm.

Alpe di Siusi, Italy

Located in the Dolomites, Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, offering sweeping views of green hills framed by the surrounding mountains. Despite its striking beauty, it is much less touristed than other parts of the Dolomites.

The area is perfect for peaceful hikes, with trails leading through flower-filled pastures, beneath towering limestone peaks. In winter, it transforms into a tranquil skiing and snowboarding destination.

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Durmitor National Park is a hidden treasure in Montenegro’s northern mountains. The park is characterized by dramatic canyons, glacial lakes, and dense forests, with the Durmitor Massif towering over the landscape.

Despite its rugged beauty, the area remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. Visitors can hike through pristine wilderness, explore the Tara River Canyon—the deepest in Europe—or relax in the green hills surrounding the charming town of Žabljak, which serves as the gateway to the park.

Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Though Slovenia’s Julian Alps are gaining popularity, Triglav National Park, named after Slovenia’s highest peak, remains an uncrowded gem. The surrounding area is filled with green valleys, alpine lakes, and secluded trails. Hikers can explore lush green hills, dense forests, and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Triglav itself.

Rätikon, Austria/Switzerland/Liechtenstein

Straddling the borders of Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, the Rätikon range is an alpine hidden gem. Despite being close to popular areas in the Swiss Alps, this lesser-known region boasts dramatic limestone peaks and green hills that offer tranquility. The surrounding mountains are perfect for both hiking and climbing, while alpine meadows and quaint villages provide a peaceful setting for those looking to experience the quiet beauty of the Alps.

When is the best tIME to find Hidden Gems in Europe?

Sometimes the right timing can turn a tourist attraction nightmare into a traveler’s dream. Here are some suggestions for timing your trip just right:

Overnight guests are WINNING!

Stay the Night and enjoy tourist hot spots with fewer crowds! Ok this is another of my favorites. Tourists tend to descend upon a popular town en masse during midday. There’s a reason why these towns are so popular, because they are pretty fabulous so, don’t skip it! Instead consider staying the night right there in town! Simply take a day trip to escape the midday crowds.

If you stay the night, you’ll have the early morning hours and magical floodlit evenings to yourself! Places like Hallstatt Austria and Rothenburg Germany are absolutely magical at night and in the early morning hours!

The resident swans, Hallstatt Austria. A town that’s trampled with tourists during the day but peaceful and quite at night! The majestic swans may be the only crowds to contend with in the late evening hours.

visit early or late

The early bird gets the worm, and the night owl gets a little peace and quiet after the other wild animals have settled down for the night.

As we touched on before, any place very early or late in the day will be a bit less crowded. I’ve found that even the most popular destinations can be a bit of a “hidden gem” if you visit as soon as the attractions open, or close to closing time. I’m not much of a morning person but many a times I’ve had popular attractions almost to myself close to closing!

I arrived late at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum in Nuremberg Germany and they told me if I came back in 30 minutes admission would be free! It was wonderfully uncrowded at that time of day.

travel in the off-season

A great thing about traveling in the off-season is that visitors during the off-season are treated to fewer crowds and more affordable prices, so you may even save a little bit of money. Sounds like a win to me! The off season in Europe is in general in winter, EXCEPT for the Christmas Market season (essentially late November through December), and of course ski resorts will be busier and more expensive in winter.

Shoulder season is, in my opinion, the very best time to visit! This is generally the time between late spring and late fall. Here’s why I like it: prices haven’t hit high season levels yet, the weather is usually mild, and the summer crowds have not yet descended!

I hope you’ve found these ideas helpful. They have helped me plan some truly epic bucket list worthy travel. Use them in your quest for the most underrated places in Europe! Happy travel planning and happy travels!

frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How do you find hidden gem destinations in Europe?

It takes a little work to find these elusive places but if you prefer a bit more solitude on your trips it’s worth the work! Here are some of the top easy to find hidden gems to add to your travel itinerary: Utilize social media, ask a local, read blogs, peruse Google Maps for attractions, hire a local guide, explore Atlas Obscura.

Where can I find hidden gems in Europe?

Travel to some of the less visited countries in Europe, choose lesser known museums and attractions, join food tours and let a local show you the culinary hidden gems in their town, get out of town and into the great outdoors, find restaurants frequented by the locals, escape the congested tourist center, take a day trip, shop for books and art.

Looking for more travel planning tips? You may be interested in my travel planning page!