gjirokaster albania day trip hidden gem

Off the Beaten Path: Discovering Europe’s Underrated Towns and Hidden Gems

Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable holiday experience in Europe? While many travelers flock to the popular tourist destinations, there are numerous underrated towns and hidden gems waiting to be explored. In this blog post, we will showcase some of these hidden gems, including Coimbra in Portugal, Gjirokaster in Albania, Lucca in Italy, Brasov in Romania, Bath in England, Gordes in France, Ronda in Spain, and Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Coimbra, Portugal

First on our list is Coimbra, a charming university town located in central Portugal. It is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, as well as several stunning landmarks, including the Coimbra Cathedral and the Joanina Library. The town is also known for its lively nightlife scene and traditional fado music.



Gjirokaster, Albania

gjirokaster albania day trip hidden gem

Next is Gjirokaster, a hidden gem located in southern Albania. This historic town boasts stunning Ottoman architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the Gjirokastra Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, and the bazaar.

Lucca, Italy

Lucca, a charming town in Tuscany, Italy, is another hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. Its well-preserved Renaissance walls, narrow streets, and piazzas make it a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll. The town is also known for its delicious food and wine.

Brasov, Romania

Brasov, located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, is a picturesque town surrounded by mountains. Visitors can explore the medieval old town, including the famous Black Church, and take a cable car up to the top of Mount Tampa for stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside.



Bath, UK

bath uk things to do day trip

Bath, located in southwestern England, is famous for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture. Visitors can take a dip in the warm, mineral-rich waters at the Roman Baths and explore the town’s numerous museums and galleries.

Gordes, France

Gordes, located in the heart of Provence, France, is a charming hilltop village that is renowned for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets, stone houses, and historic chateau.

Ronda, Spain

ronda spain hidden gem things to do

Ronda, located in the southern region of Andalusia, Spain, is a breathtaking town that is perched on a cliff overlooking a deep gorge. Visitors can explore the historic old town, including the Puente Nuevo, a stunning bridge that spans the gorge.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Finally, Mostar, located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a hidden gem that is famous for its stunning Ottoman architecture and the iconic Stari Most bridge. Visitors can explore the old town, including the bustling bazaar and the historic mosques.

In conclusion, Europe is home to many hidden gems and underrated towns that are waiting to be explored. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or stunning natural scenery, these destinations offer a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. So why not consider one of these hidden gems for your next holiday and discover the beauty and charm of Europe’s lesser-known destinations?

See a 2023 Europe travel guide with tips, destinations, accommodation, itineraries and more!

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