It’s the holiday season, and what is even better than taking time off in Europe? Imagine the Mediterranean air weaving through your hair, medieval structures greeting you with stony streets and secluded coastlines. Beautiful, isn’t it? Here are some of the hidden gems of Europe that await discovery. Get ready to cherish some of the best experiences.
Graz, Austria
Graz, Europe’s hidden gem and Austria’s second-largest city, has long been one of the most ignored destinations. Rightly earning two UNESCO designations, this city welcomes you with a soul-soothing, laid-back charm. Graz brings you everything you would expect from its other European counterparts. You can find hilltop castles, medieval streets and churches that are beyond boring. Don’t forget to savour the farm-to-table Austrian delicacies the city offers. Trains are the best mode of transport for reaching Graz.
Azores, Portugal
Located 600 miles away from mainland Europe is the Azores, an archipelago of nine volcanic islands. Among them, São Miguel stands out as the largest island, known for its hot springs, hiking trails and tea gardens. Roaming around the island is an amazing way to taste a slice of the Azores. You can go swimming, whale watching or simply enjoy the peak hydrangea blooms. The best time to visit this place would be June to September.
Villa Romana del Casale, Sicily, Italy
At Villa Romana del Casale, you will find the finest mosaics of the Roman World. Walk around the raised walkways as magnificent mosaics unfold beneath your feet. Watch the stories every tile talks about, everyday life, mythology and whatnot. You can spot some of the most stunning 1,700-year-old mosaic arts here, and it’s easy to see why this masterpiece earned its UNESCO status.
Oberammergau, Germany
Oberammergau, a charming town situated in Germany’s Bavarian Alps, houses some of the most mesmerising scenery and art. The magical setting of the atmosphere, the wooden carvings from the native artisans and the frescoes—all form an integral part of your memory once you visit here. You can visit here during the June to September period, when the weather remains warm and dry.
Galicia, Spain
What comes to your mind when we talk about Europe? Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean sits Galicia. Picture verdant forests, beautiful beaches, seafood and wine. Galicia is the place where you can enjoy everything you would in any other European destination. When you step into Santiago, you get greeted by cobble-stoned streets, white-washed walls, and busy local stalls.
Vipava Valley, Slovenia
Slovenia is that one city that deserves its much-awaited attention, like its other European cousins. Anyone looking for a slow and sustainable travel destination minus the Europe-obsessed crowd— the answer is Vipava Valley. You can enjoy hiking the mountains, cycling amidst the gorgeous greenery, or venture into paragliding, soaring on the valley’s winds.
The Hague, Netherlands
The Hague, located on the western coast of the Netherlands, is renowned for being the city of world peace and justice. Home to the Dutch royals, this place is an absolute underrated wonder. When in the Hague, don’t forget to explore the city’s vivid gastronomy. It is literally a great place for vegetarian travellers. Apart from the food, Mauritshuis, and the iconic painting—Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer.
Nafplio, Greece
Colourful streets, stunning views, and pleasant weather are among the highlights of Nafplio in Greece. Rich in history and coastal allure, this place serves grace like no other. You will find Venetian architecture, boutique stores selling handmade jewellery and charming fortresses. The best time to enjoy this hidden gem would be around mid-May.
Gozo, Malta
A quieter counterpart to the main island of Malta, Gozo, lets you explore places like lively markets, historic Ġgantija temples and stunning natural wonders. You can go around the city in a tuk-tuk for a joyful excursion into some off-beaten paths.
Berat, Albania
If you end up in Albania, you will be overwhelmed to witness ‘City of a thousand Windows.’ This place offers you to explore 2500 years of rich history; you can visit the Byzantine era churches, live in a castle and enjoy the country’s underrated beauties like Lake Komani and Bogovë Nature Park.
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